> The Humble Prince
>  by Lighting Ace
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Hellish Monday (Edited by CC, YB And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the first rays of the sunday morning appeared on the horizon, two maids engaged in a hushed argument during their journey down the hallways of the prestigious Canterlot Castle. One maid had a coat shining a lovely shade of yellow, while her companion possessed one that was a deep purple. Both of the mares usually went about their work with a strong sense of pride and duty. Usually.

Today, however, their normal work ethic was thrown out the window. The subject of their heated debate was on who would be the sacrifice of the day — something that was quite odd, considering that the palace in which they worked was considered the center of ponykind, a beacon of freedom and justice. Concepts like ritual sacrifice became obsolete many long centuries ago, now considered barbaric and immoral. And yet, here they were.

The great white walls and golden adornments of the castle and perhaps the city as a whole was covering up a shameful secret, a dark blemish that everypony did their best to hide. Celestia and Luna, now that she had returned, both wished they could remove the stain from their lives, but there was no simple solution to be had. They and the staff knew this dark secret well, all too well.

And therefore the unicorns argued. The loser would be condemned to this most reviled of tasks, bound in servitude to the dark one. The one all who lived in the castle feared and hated in equal measure.

Only the princesses’ divine protection kept him from imprisonment, repeated assaults, and possible exile. Why would they protect one such as this? Because he was descended directly from the diarchs. This fact alone prevented retribution for his actions, and it had done so for a loooong time.

"Okay, okay, what about this? You take over today, and in exchange I will…foalsit your filly, free of charge for one whole month?" Clean Breeze attempted to negotiate a deal with her co-worker, running a hoof through her messy white mane. Her attempt to smooth it out did little to tame the short hairs, still sticking up at odd angles. She hoped her offer had more success than it did.

“One whole month?” The purple-coated maid repeated incredulously. “You mean starting tonight, knowing full well that Pearl has just started growing her horn? Which means that you’re willing to put up with caring for her twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week? Even with the nonstop crying and uncontrollable magic?”  A trace of a sardonic grin spread across her lips.

“Y-Yes?” Despite not being even close to a fair deal, she would still take it. Breeze was feeling that desperate.  “What do you say, Mist?”

“Not. A. Chance. Clean Breeze.” Mist stated with heart crushing finality in each and every syllable.  “I’d rather face that than deal with our ‘beloved’ prince even one more time,” she hissed with venom in her voice.

"Ple-heh-heeeese Mist!" begged Clean Breeze, crocodile tears forming in her eyes. "I already chewed the arrow last week!" She made her eyes as big as she possibly could. Then she quivered her lip. To complete the look she drew both her ears back as far as they were able. All together she appeared to be the pinnacle of pitiable desperation.

Years of catering to the prince had hardened Mist, her heart and her resolve were unmoved by her fellow maid’s puppy dog eyes.  "And you only took one of those days, Breezie." Mist glared at her. "I took the whole week with him before that. At this rate, if I have to spend one more day with Blueblood I am going to strangle him, consequences be damned! Not even if that means a one way ticket to the sun!”

"But I can’t stand him!" Clean whined, on the verge of tears, real ones this time.

"I know,” Mist consoled, taking Breeze’s hoof and giving it a gentle pat before looking her square in the eyes, “But we all have to pony up and endure it. And let’s be real, you have been weaseling out your duties for far too long." She jabbed an accusing hoof into Clear Breeze’s chest. "Don’t think I don’t know about your little deals, Breezie.”  

Clean Breeze shifted uncomfortably, “I-I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“I know you offered all kinds of deals with other staff.”  She shot a stern look at her friend.  “By Celestia’s sun, I really hope you didn't offer that poor colt that just started as a butler yesterday a date in exchange for switching jobs."

Breeze’s blush did nothing to hide her guilt, nor did her weak smile as she searched for an excuse. "Well, you know, I… I was just thinking…since he seemed to like me, and was kind of cute…"

"Just do your job, Breezie," Mist said with a sigh.  "And believe me, we have it easy. Blueblood just expects us to bring him stuff, then nod and smile.”  She added a saccharine smile, and the sickly sweet stretch and hollow eyes showed just how practiced it was for her.  “It’s the princesses who have it rough," she said, gesturing toward the princesses’ quarters with a nod of her head — both of which were located as far away from Blueblood’s wing as possible, coincidentally enough.

Clear furrowed her brow. "Really?"

"You’ll see soon enough.” Mist nodded solemnly before continuing, “For now, just take a deep breath, close your eyes and keep reminding yourself, 'They will give me a raise for this'."

The pair came to a halt outside their destination. Here, the simple yet elegant marble walls and their golden accents were interrupted by a pair of large wooden doors, decorated with matching reliefs of the inhabitant. "Here we are," Mist announced to her doomed co-worker.

Clear shook as cold dread crawled up her spine. Despair overcame her as she beheld the doors, fairly unassuming, though the images of the prince were a bit gaudy. To most visitors or patrolling guards, they were merely a manifestation of Blueblood’s mountain-sized ego. But for the castle’s staff members, the ones that actually had to enter, they were akin to the gates of Tartarus.

"Abandon all hope, ye who enter here," Mist and Clean Breeze recited the staff’s long-standing joke regarding this duty simultaneously, though it was more akin to their personal mantra.

"By Celestia, I really hoped that you were joking when you first told me that this was the entrance to Tartarus." Clean’s tone was entirely resigned now. She tore her eyes from the door to look at her friend, "Are you sure there’s nothing I can do…" Clean Breeze looked around in alarm, Mist’s conspicuous absence left her with no way to plead or bargain further. She probably ran the second Clean looked away from her.

"What!? Mist, you can’t…! Actually I can't really blame you. I would’ve probably done the same." Clean sighed in defeat before looking at the door frame once more, taking a moment to mentally prepare herself.

“I will get a raise, I will get a raise, I will get a raise…”

Clean repeated that mantra to herself over and over as she gathered as much courage as she could. She needed all she could muster before opening the door to meet the devil himself.

Let’s get this over with…

Clean opened the door to the prince’s chambers and entered slowly. As she marched steadily across the room, she actually felt herself abandoning her hope. Opening the curtains gave her just enough time to don her practiced smile, before she bathed the room in the warm gold light of Celestia’s sun. The prince yelped as the rays of light struck him square in the eyes.

"Good morning, Prince Blueblood," Clean announced professionally, only to receive a pillow to the face for her efforts. As soon as the pillow fell away, she saw the livid stallion glaring at her. Under any other circumstance, Clean would have swooned a bit at a stallion like him. His fur shined white as snow, covering a frame that stood taller than most common stallions. Framing his horn was a mane colored in a beautiful shade of gold. Tying his image all together was his build, just the right amount of muscle to make him look both powerful and in perfect health. Objectively speaking, Blueblood was an incredibly attractive stallion, had his personality not been the way it was. If it had been even just a little less insufferable even.

"How dare you interrupt my beauty sleep, you buffoon!" he shouted. “Is common etiquette not taught to you airheaded maids anymore?”

"My apologies, Prince Blueblood, but as you requested―"

"Oh, forget it." Blueblood rolled his eyes in an obnoxiously exaggerated manner. He then rolled himself out of his opulent bed and headed toward the restroom. "There is no way for a commoner like you to comprehend the problems a pony of the royal family must face on a daily basis."

Clean grit her teeth. "Of course, sir," she said as she started making his bed. What had she done to deserve this job?

"Oh, Dulcy, if only you knew how much I envy your simplistic style of life." Blueblood paused before he burst out laughing. "Oh, by my dear aunty, I crack myself up." He kept laughing until reaching the bathroom door, closing it behind him.

"Yeah, you’re hilarious, prince."

Kill me. Kill me now.







Later that day, Blueblood enjoyed the beauty of the sun in the palatial garden. While tanning in the warm light, he deigned to eat another offered grape. After he judged it satisfactory, he spat the seed into Clean’s face. The maid carefully kept her seed covered face perfectly neutral and emotionless. No pony saw her eye twitch and hooves shake as she held up his drink and the bunch of grapes.

Monday night saw Blueblood host a private party in the royal ballroom. Only the most snobbish of nobles in the grand city were allowed to attend of course. They all merely put up an act to be friendly with the prince, as they simply wished to bump elbows with royalty. Some used the chance to show off their vast riches, while others took the time to socially maneuver around the others. Blueblood didn’t notice any of this of course, too full of confidence to consider that the other nobles could possibly not enjoy his company.

"Ah! My friends, I'm so happy to see you could make it tonight. Please, come, come, leave your coats with the help," Blueblood greeted haughtily, pointing at Clean Breeze with a smirk.

"The what?!" Clean’s eyes widened in shock a mere second before she found herself buried beneath a mountain of tacky coats and sweaters.

"And hurry with the snacks! Chop chop!" Blueblood ordered as he led the guest inside.

On Tuesday, the prince, trying on a new suit in front of a large mirror, turned to a tailor who was sweating bullets. "I say, this new suit must have cost a small fortune and a lot of time to make. Am I right, my good sir?"

"Y-You are correct, Your Highness. Nothing but the finest of materials for royalty."

"Good, I’ll take ten! Including this one of course! Dulcy, pay the kind stallion," Blueblood proclaimed as he left the store. Clean’s legs wobbled as Blueblood threw the latest addition onto the veritable mountain of goods on her back. Gaudy clothing, ostentatious jewelry, and tacky baubles weighed her down from the day of shopping with her boss. After being used like a mule all day, she couldn’t stop herself from giving a soft growl.

"Yes…sir," she huffed, hooves trembling.

And then came Wednesday…

"SOLD! To the prince that didn't let anypony else compete at the auction," the auctioneer announced with annoyance. Every participant gave Blueblood the stink eye as he waved at them in victory. He suddenly stopped and cleared his throat as he stared expectantly at Clean.

"…Ah, bravo!" she fake cheered, clapping for him as he resumed his showboating.

Thursday: "No, please don't! Don't make me go!" Clean cried her eyes out as two guards dragged her toward the prince’s quarters, her hooves leaving marks on the ground as she struggled helplessly.

Friday: "Ahhh, there is nothing like some exercise. Don't you agree, Dulcy?" Blueblood asked while riding a two-pony bike, only that it’s modified so he was leaning comfortably while Clean did all the work.

"Right…Your Highness," she grunted, trying her hardest to reach the end of the park.

"Oh, what the hell, I think I’ve earned it. Let’s do one more lap!"

Clean could only whimper in response.

Saturday: "Give money to the orphans? Oh, surely you jest! I mean, I love those small, dirty, smelly blood-suckers as much as the next stallion, but let’s face it, sister: if nopony wants them, what are they worth?" Blueblood declared, causing a group of nuns to gasp in shock. At this point, Clean was banging her head against a wall in frustration and agony.

Finally, Sunday came. Once her shift was over, Clean rushed to her room and jumped onto her bed, holding her pillow to her face as she let out the biggest scream possible into it.

This is us getting it easy?! Oh, by the stars, what kind of horrible, despicable hell do the princesses have to face every single day?

 Clean despaired while looking through a window to see the moon rising on the horizon.





"I don't know how much more of this I can take, Celestia. We need to do something about that nephew of yours," said Luna. Celestia was in the process of putting her tiara and peytral on an equine mannequin.

"Oh come on, Luna, don't you think you are overreacting just a little bit? Besides—" once she was done undressing, she turned to look at her younger sister. "—Blueblood is your nephew as well."

"And that is the only reason I have yet to exile him from Equestria! No scratch that, sending him anywhere else might as well be a declaration of war to any nations he ends up falling into," Luna huffed. "And I'm not overreacting."

Celestia chuckled and approached her. "Oh, sister, yes you are."

"Tia! He wanted to change my annual constellation construction so that, next to my moon, his smug face will appear for everypony in the world to see each time the night arrives…and he almost succeeded!" Fuming, Luna continued pacing the room. "And this is not the only time he has attempted to pull a stunt like this: he claims to love us but all he does is mooch, guilt trip, or scheme so he can always, ALWAYS get his way."

"Well Lulu, like the saying goes, a few harmless schemes keeps the mind sharp," Celestia argued.

"Tia, look at me." Luna grabbed Celestia’s cheeks so her sister was forced to look her in the eyes. "It’s me, your sister. Nopony is listening. You can talk to me. Why do you so adamantly defend that rotten brat of a nephew?"

Celestia’s mask wavered until it finally broke, and she pulled away from her sister. She sighed. "Fine. You win, Luna. You are right. He is a petulant little monster and he really needs to be taught a lesson. I'm not blind."

"Then why do you keep allowing it, sister?"

"Because it’s my fault he ended up like this!" Celestia blurted out while closing her eyes.

Luna could only blink a couple of times to that revelation. "Uh…what?"

"Luna, please don't be mad at me, but…what happened to Blueblood was something I never planned. It’s my fault…"

"Tia, why don't we start from the beginning, then? What exactly happened? How could you possibly be to blame for Blueblood’s callous behavior?" Luna asked gently as she approached the Diarch of the Sun.

Celestia sighed and looked up at the night stars through her balcony. "I suppose it all started twenty-three years ago. The day of your return was fast approaching, and the idea of having you back made me giddy with excitement," Celestia explained, a smile briefly dancing across her lips before it disappeared completely. "But then…"

"Then what? What happened?" Luna asked.

"Then tragedy struck." Looking at the moon, a single tear fell from the princess’s face. "Formal Attire and Royal Treatment — Blueblood’s parents — were possibly my last relatives still alive. Over the years I saw our family tree slowly dwindle and wither as time passed, so knowing I still had them was an anchor that kept me going. Unfortunately for others, that family was portrayed as a dark omen which foreshadowed something terrible…"

Luna’s eyes widened. "Nightmare Moon."

With a nod Celestia continued, "To this day, the case of my cousins remains a mystery. The only thing that the investigation found was that somepony thought that my relatives were aiming to 'resurrect' the Nightmare and help her bring eternal night." Celestia’s hoof heated up enough that the pristine floor underneath her began to melt and crack. "They weren't even merciful. And poor Blueblood…he was only three at the time." Celestia couldn’t contain her tears anymore.

"By my moon…" Luna whispered, aghast, not believing what she was hearing.

"I don't even know if Blueblood even remembers their faces. The only thing I knew was that he was completely alone and I was all the family he had left. I…I thought that maybe, just maybe, I could make things right and protect him for my cousins. So that is what I did: for years I did nothing but attend to his needs and wishes, never denying him any request. And at first it worked fine." Celestia wiped her eyes.

"He was such a nice little colt…there was even this little game where he would sit on my lap and close his eyes." She chuckled at the memory. "I even hosted a day court like that, and not a single pony ever noticed him. His fur was an exact match to mine."

"Then what happened? How could somepony so sweet and innocent turn into such a loathsome brat today?"

"I… I just couldn't say ‘no’ to him. Each year you were so close to returning, and I was so happy that you two would finally meet that I really didn't have it in me to refuse his requests. I thought it was just a phase, but then the requests started becoming more and more demanding, not to mention ridiculous. And whenever I tried to say 'no', I just kept seeing Attire and Treatment, looking at me in disappointment, judging me and telling me that they were gone because of me. I was…I was powerless."

"Sister, please, their deaths weren't your fault."

"Perhaps, but by the time I saw what I was doing, what I was twisting him into, it was too late. My kind nephew was gone, and thanks to my own insecurities I'm now cursed with this sociopath that is beyond my help."

"Tia…" Luna whispered as she nuzzled her sister."You have suffered for far too long because of me."

"Don't say that, Luna. None of this was your fault either."

"No Tia, it was the result of both our shortcomings: because of my jealousy and your insecurity, the only other living relative we have has turned into an icon that reminds us of our failures.”

"Some nights I see your sky and think ‘What I would give for a second chance’,” Celestia whispered back. “A chance to be a family. Not a 'royal family', but a normal family, with flaws and arguments, but ultimately a family that actually loves each other."

"I'm sure Blueblood actually loves us, sister, in his own twisted and bizarre way, but he loves us nonetheless. I’m sure of it," Luna soothed. "But yes, I do share that wish of yours, sister. I wish I could have seen that nephew you speak so highly of."

"Oh, I'm sure you would have loved him, Lulu,” Celestia said with a sad smile. “He was mischievous at times, but Blueblood used to have the biggest of hearts." She looked into the stars and something caught her eye. A streak of light across the sky. "Luna, look! A shooting star!"

"Quick, Tia, make a wish!"

Celestia let out a titter. "Aren't we a bit too old to wish upon a star, sister?"

"You are never too old to have dreams, Tia," Luna countered with a wink.

Celestia nodded. "Fair enough."

Without another word, both sisters closed their eyes and they made their wish together.





The next day, just like every other day, Clean Breeze and Mist approached the room of Blueblood. The doors loomed before them further down the hall, never losing their imposing presence no matter how much the maids wished they would.

"Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you, Mist! I don’t think I could take another second with that royal pain without ripping my mane out!"

"Geez, don't get ahead of yourself, Breezie. I'm only helping you today because I’ve been in your horseshoes before. After the first week alone with that headache you end up in a murderous rage."

Clean’s head whipped over to face Mist in shock. "Did that happen to you?"

Mist nodded. "Once, I tried to drown him while he was bathing. He had asked for a 'female touch' to apply the shampoo right."

"…Please tell me you are joking."

"Oh, Breezie, I wish I was. Almost had him too if not for that guard," Mist muttered as they reached the door.

Both mares sighed in defeat. "Abandon all hope, ye who…" They started their mantra, before they were interrupted by a scream coming from the room.

"What the hay?!" Mist shouted. The sounds of a struggle and objects being tossed around could be heard on the other side.

"Is he under attack?!" Clean cried, panicking.

"Don't jump to conclusions, maybe he’s having a nightmare," Mist replied, fighting her own anxiousness. "But just in case, let’s stay on the door frame, so if he is being attacked we can go and alert the guards."

Clean nodded and they both opened the door, scanning the room until they found Prince Blueblood wrapped in his own bed sheets on the floor, squirming around like a fish and screaming. "Oh God! Oh God, my hands, what happened to my hands?!"

"Uh, my prince?" Mist prodded, the first to recover from the oddity of the situation. "Are you okay?"

The prince froze and stared at them in surprise and then began to wriggle away in panic. "What are…where am…who are you?" He asked in complete terror.

Both maids could only blink a couple of times in confusion before looking at one another.


	
Monday


> A Blue Dawn (Edited by CC, YB And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The morning started as it often did for the Diarch of the Sun. A sweet, cream-stuffed donut and a newspaper before the hustle and bustle of Day court.

Normally a staunch professional, Princess Celestia would have bathed and been clad in her regalia by now but, due to a last-minute cancellation, she found herself a small window of free time this morning. Enough that she was allowed to kick up her hooves and ease into the day for once.

Her comfy pink robe, a birthday gift from Cadance last year along with her silver satin slippers, was a luxury she was allowing herself, today.

By my sun, why can't every morning be like this? Celestia mused while she finished her donut.

She was in the middle of drinking her coffee when an earth pony stallion with gray fur and a black mane and tail entered the room and gave her a small bow. "Apologies for disturbing your breakfast, Princess, but I have urgent news."

The Princess looked up at her butler and folded her newspaper downward. "Oh my, what is it, Flicker? You seem concerned."

"It’s…" Flicker glanced to the side, chewing his lip. "…It’s Prince Blueblood, Princess."

That earned a groan and a roll of the eyes from the princess before she returned to her newspaper. "What did he do this time?"

"It’s not so much what he did, rather more of what he is…doing?"

"Hm?" Celestia turned to him with a raised eyebrow.

"He is acting strange, Your Highness. More so than usual, that is. Two of his hoofmaids found him this morning in his room wrestling with his bed sheets and yelling something about missing limbs and how he has lost the ability to walk," Flicker explained.

Celestia rolled her eyes once more and took a gulp of her coffee. "Oh Flicker, I think you and those poor maids are the victims of a prank. My nephew is probably trying to make them carry him around like a trophy or something, " she said with a knowing smirk. "I will have a talk with him later."

"That is what I thought at first too, Your Highness, but he continued to put up such a convincing act that it has me worried. I had him sent to the infirmary to see what was wrong and that’s when the weirdest thing happened. He…he thanked me." Flicker shivered.

AS if on cue, Celestia spat her coffee right into the newspaper and looked at Flicker in complete shock, all pretense of decorum tossed to the wayside. "He thanked you?"

"Yes."

"My nephew?"

"Yes…?"

"Prince Blueblood?"

"I know! Princess, this might be serious. For a moment I thought he was replaced by a changeling but when the guards used a detection spell on his body they confirmed that it is, indeed, who he appears to be. I just don't know what is happening but it’s scaring the staff. Your Highness, I think you should see to him immediately."

"I couldn't agree more, Flicker," Celestia declared as she stood up. “This couldn't possibly be Chrysalis. That would be the poorest infiltration attempt imaginable. And Thorax wouldn’t think of pulling this kind of prank, so there must be something else at stake here. By my crown I'm going to find out what it is." Determined to shed light on this conundrum, Celestia left the dining room, making a beeline to the infirmary.

This is strange…my nephew suddenly forgetting how to walk and showing respect? It's almost like the wish I…NO. That is not possible. There is no way that star did this. Get your head in the game, Celestia, this could be a new villain trying to take over Equestria! Somehow using Blueblood to do so. I need to get to the bottom of this.





A pegasus stallion with a white coat and a stethoscope around his neck returned to his office carrying a clipboard, checking the X-rays and finished test results written on it.

"Alright, Your Highness, we are almost done with all the tests. Now I only need to ask…" The doctor had to stop himself when he saw how the infamous Prince of Canterlot was currently struggling to stand up as one of the maids that brought him was encouraging him to take small steps like he was a giant colt.

"It’s okay, sir, you are almost there," the maid said to him with a smile as the prince in question glanced about like he was standing on lava. He took small, shaking steps, almost tripping over himself on more than one occasion.

He doesn't even remember how to walk? The doctor wondered in confusion as he watched the scene unfold.

"I…I think I'm doing it, Mist! I’m actually doing it!" the prince said gleefully before tripping with a small yelp of surprise. He would have tumbled if not for the maid in question, who managed to catch him at the last second.

"Good work, sir! You’re almost ready. Soon you will be able to walk again without any problems."

Blueblood just smiled and nodded, not caring or understanding how ridiculous he looked.

"Ahem!" The doctor cleared his throat, catching the attention of both ponies. Mist suddenly let the prince go and backed off with a blush of embarrassment on her face. Meanwhile, Blueblood, without anypony there to support him, ended up falling onto the ground with a thump, his legs splayed out in a rather undignified fashion.

"Prince Blueblood!" The maid panicked and rushed to help him up again. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah," Blueblood said with a groan, massaging his head. "Thanks for the assist, Mist."

The staff in the room went silent, staring at him in complete shock.

He said it again! Mist screamed in her head, still not believing her ears. How, what, and why?!

"…What?" Blueblood eventually asked with a raised eyebrow as he leaned on a table for support.

"N-Nothing! Nothing, Your Highness, it’s just…surprising, is all. You’ve been acting out of sorts since this morning," Mist replied in haste.

Blueblood suddenly grew nervous. "R-Really? Sorry, I just, uh…must be feeling a bit dizzy or something," he said with a laugh.

"Anyway," the doctor interrupted. "Miss Mist, would you mind leaving us alone for a moment? I need to ask the prince a couple of questions."

Mist nodded. "Yes, of course, Dr. Caliber.” She looked at Blueblood and offered him a small smile. “I will be in the hallway if you need me, sir.”

Blueblood waved as she departed. "I’ll try not to take too long!"

Both ponies looked at him with questioning stares for a moment, but Mist soon recovered and trotted away while Caliber helped the prince sit on the table.

"Right then, as I was saying, I got the results for your tests right here, Prince Blueblood. Everything seems in order: no fractures, punctures, illnesses, or concussions of any kind. Physically speaking, you are perfectly fine."

"That’s good to hear."

"That being said, there are still some worries I would like to address, so if you don't mind, I have a few questions I would like to ask."

"Sure, go ahead doctor," Blueblood said with a courteous nod.

Caliber continued to look at him with some intrigue.

No boasting about being the image of physical health? No snarky comments? No demeaning my profession? No talking my ear off? Not to mention, he’s friendly and respectful. Do I…really want to help him return to his old self?

Caliber cleared his throat once more, took his clipboard in hoof, and flipped some papers before taking a pen and pressing it against the paper. "Okay, first question: do you know what day it is?"

"Hmmm." Blueblood tapped his hoof against his chin. "Monday?"

Caliber looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "Are you asking me or telling me?"

Blueblood glanced left and right before nodding with confidence. "Telling you."

The doctor stared at him with an emotionless expression. "Prince, if you want me to help, I need you to be honest with me. Do you, or do you not, know what day it is?"

"Well, okay, I don't know."

Dr Caliber nodded and checked his list. “Alright. Do you know what your name is?"

"Blueblood."

"Good." He checked again. "Do you know where we are right now?"

Once more the prince looked to his left and right until he spotted the window in the office and took a small peak. "I would like to say somewhere in Europe?"

"Somewhere in what? Your Highness, if you don't know the answer, just say so. There is no need for you to start making up names," Dr. Caliber huffed, shaking his head and checking another point on the list.

"Right, I will keep that in mind," the prince said with a nervous smile

Okay, so I can safely say that I'm not on Earth. That is nice. That is…fine. For now, let's just keep playing along, and try not to end up in the loony bin.

"Okay then, moving on. This is the last question: before waking up, what is the last thing you remembered?"

Blueblood closed his eyes as he recalled his last memories before waking up. Memories of screams, fire, and pieces of a building collapsing around him flashed in front of him, forcing him to jerk back in fear, startling the doctor. "I…I just don't know. I think I was having a nightmare. Waking up, then going back to sleep. Everything is too foggy," he groaned, holding his head.

"It’s okay, Prince Blueblood," Caliber said, placing a hoof on his shoulder. "You don't need to force yourself to remember."

Blueblood nodded and looked back at him. "So what happens next?"

"Now, you wait," Caliber replied as he marched to the door. "I need to do one more thing before I can safely allow you to leave."

"Is…is there something wrong?" Blueblood nervously asked.

"Oh, no. Don’t worry, Your Highness, everything is fine," Caliber reassured him. "I just need to take these results to be studied further. It won’t take too much time, so please wait there."

"Ah…well, okay.”

Caliber nodded and left the room, leaving a very confused, very nervous Prince Blueblood on the table.





Moments before in the hallway

As soon as Mist left the infirmary, her friend, Clean Breeze, confronted her with a question burning in her mind. "So? Has he finally lost it?"

"Breezie!" Mist scowled. "How could you say that? The poor colt is scared as Tartarus in there."

"Yeah, but we are talking about a colt named Blueblood," Clean remarked.

"Even so, the moment he looked us in the eyes…those puppy eyes he gave us. It was like looking at a poor colt lost in the park. I just didn't have it in me to leave him like that. I suppose raising Pearl has left some motherly curse on me," Mist confessed with some degree of embarrassment.

"So that is why you were so quick to teach him how to walk again?" Clean asked.

"Say what you want. Even though he is a grown stallion, seeing him put forth the effort and listening to what I have to say for once was both satisfactory and, to a degree, almost cute."

"…Wow, Mist, I didn't know you were into those sorts of plays," the other maid teased with a smirk.

"Oh, poor, naive Breezie. Trust me, you will understand when you’re older."

"Hey!" Clean glared at her while Mist only chuckled at her outburst.

After her anger faded, Clean cleared her throat and looked at the infirmary door. "So, what do you think will happen to him?"

"I honestly don't know, Breezie. I really would love it if this new Blueblood was here to stay, but if he isn’t able to fit into society, Celestia knows what will happen to him."

"I say this is divine punishment. Karma was sure to catch up with him sooner or later. I say that he got what he deserved," Clean said, the memories of last week still fresh in her mind. "But yeah, I hope he doesn't end up in an asylum. As much of a jerk he is…was, not even he deserves to end up there.”

"Don't worry, Breezie, he’ll be ok. I'm sure the Princess wouldn't allow that to happen."

Right on cue, the aforementioned princess walked toward the infirmary followed closely by the head butler, Flicker. The moment they saw them, the maids offered small bows to the princess.

"Your Highness," both mares droned respectfully at the same time

"At ease, my little ponies," Celestia said to them in her renowned motherly voice as they looked back up at the two newcomers.

Flicker gave them both the stink-eye. "And may I know the reason why you two are standing here instead of attending to your duties?" he asked, narrowing his gaze.

"Uh, well, Mister Flicker, you see, today we were supposed to look after Prince Blueblood, but since he is like that…" Clean stammered.

"I thought I was clear when I told you that you were dismissed from your current duty and instead were to go clean the empty guest rooms," Flicker scolded.

"But the prince asked us to stay!" Mist argued.

Before Flicker could explode on the maid for her mild insubordination, Celestia put a hoof on his shoulder. "At ease, Flicker, they were following the prince’s orders," she said, and then addressed the maids. "Now ladies, I am very thankful for your concern for my nephew and you can rest assured that he is in good hooves. You two may take your leave without any worry."

"But Princess―" Breeze took a step forward "―you don't get it. The prince, as he is right now, can't even walk on his own."

"What?" Princess Celestia asked in surprise.

"I'm afraid it is far worse than that, Princess," Dr. Caliber announced to them as he emerged from the infirmary with a grim expression. Once he looked at the princess he gave her a short bow before addressing her. "If I had to describe the Prince’s medical condition in one word right now, I would have to say it’s 'enigmatic'."

"What do you mean, doctor?" Celestia asked, confused.

Sighing, Caliber proceeded to give her the X-ray and blood samples that were taken. "All the tests I took came back negative. He doesn't have any type of concussion or fracture, his magic and ley lines appear nominal, his brain activity is stable, the spell scans all returned green, and there are no signs of poison or hypnosis on his being. For all intents and purposes, he should be perfectly fine."

Celestia looked at the results before looking back at the doctor waiting for him to continue. "And yet when I quizzed him with the basic mental tests he failed almost every single question. Princess, I can confirm it. He not only doesn't know how to walk or even stand, he also doesn't know where he is, how to read or write, how magic works, or even who he is. I fear he only knows his name because the maids yelled it at him this morning."

"So you’re saying he is now like a newborn baby?" Clear asked.

Caliber shook his head. "No, his basic motor functions are still there. That is why he still knows how to talk and understand us. He should be perfectly capable of functioning once he learns how to walk, read, and write again." He rubbed the bridge of his nose with his hoof. "I don't know how or why, but from what I have seen, it seems like his brain simply started over. Right now his mind is a blank slate."

"So this is like some kind of amnesia?" guessed Mist.

"For lack of a better term, yes. And as such, until his mind starts to settle in, I would advise that we let him rest and slowly reintroduce him to Equestria."

"And there it is," Celestia spoke with an exasperated sigh, much to everypony’s surprise. "I knew he was up to something, but I just couldn't place my hoof on it. Now I get it — he wants to weasel his way out of his duties while at the same time earning our pity, just so that I agree to future requests. Oh, that scheming nephew of mine, always the actor.” She shook her head sadly. "He is making the act of his life, I will grant him that, but by my mane, he is wasting it on something so petty."

"Princess, I can assure you, this is not an act," Caliber reaffirmed.

"Oh, doctor, please don't feel bad. Blueblood can be extremely good when it comes to acting. Even I have been made a fool by his schemes in the past," Celestia responded. "You need to give him credit though, he can really commit to the bit, can't he?"

"You mean to tell me that all of what he’s doing is just an act to skip all of his royal duties?" Mist asked with confusion. She looked back at the entrance to the infirmary, beyond which the prince waited. It had all felt so real to her.

Celestia nodded solemnly. "Don't worry, my little ponies, I will clear the air soon enough. Just let me have a word with my nephew,” she replied, her voice turning dark as she stepped into the infirmary. "Blueblood! We need to talk," Celestia called with a stern voice.

The stallion in question nearly jumped clean out of his skin on the examination table, startled. "Ah, h-hi, miss." He gave Celestia a nervous smile as he waved at her, backing up slightly.

"Oh, cut the act, would you?" Celestia growled, stomping a hoof on the floor. "I know you’re faking it, Blueblood. So why don't we cut this song and dance and skip right into what you want. More money? Do you want to rent my throne room for your snobbish friends? Some expensive tour around Equestria?"

"What? No!"

What the hell is wrong with this pony? Blueblood thought frantically to himself.

"Then what?!" Celestia demanded.

"I swear, I really don't know. Why are you so mad at me?" he asked, suddenly fearing for his life.

"Why am I so mad? Are you truly going to pretend that you don't know who I am?" Celestia pressed on, determined to squeeze the truth from her deceiving nephew.

However, in the back of her mind, a lone doubt wormed her way into her thoughts. Why was he still continuing this charade? Surely he knew it would never work, right?

Suddenly she wasn’t so sure.

"No, I'm sorry! I don't know!"

"She is the princess of all of Equestria, you inconsiderate brat!" Flicker yelled as he entered the room, upon hearing the commotion. "And I’d advise you to address her as such!"

"P-P-PRINCESS!?" Blueblood shouted in alarm as he attempted to get down from the table and bow to her. Or rather, he flopped sideways off the table and wriggled himself to her hooves in an attempt at groveling, failing successfully as he still didn't have complete control of his legs.

The display was enough to make both the princess and the butler flinch at the impact to the floor and how he didn't even attempt to cover his face as he started to shiver and tremble like a pony in winter time in front of her.

"I'm sorry, princess! I'm so sorry, please don’t be mad!"

"Blueblood, why are you on the floor?" Celestia asked, completely lost on what was happening. Her anger had faded, being replaced by befuddlement.

Seriously, now this doesn't amount to anything other than to drag his dignity even further through the mud. What is your endgame nephew?

The prince, for his part, lifted his head slightly as he looked at her, fearing for his life once more. "T-trying to bow to my princess?"

"You do know that you are also a prince right?" Flicker informed him, arching an eyebrow.

The blood of the prince froze in that instant as what was happening slowly dawned on him, and that he was making a fool of himself in front of what was essentially a family member who didn't particularly like him, and for how she talked to him, was strict and temperamental. Not only that, but it appeared that this Blueblood pony needed her help to get money, and chances were that she outranked him. If she didn’t believe his story, she would only need to say the word and he would be put in an asylum, or even worse she could declare him dangerous and put him in the dungeon, maybe even order his execution.

He needed to think fast, to think of something, anything to save his skin.Thinking as quickly as he could, he slowly sat up, convincing himself that the next words that came from his mouth could very well be his last. He scanned everything in the room, looking for clues, any ray of hope that might save his life. Then he noticed the princess’s fur and how it matched his own perfectly.  He was a prince and she was a princess. Maybe they were related? A sister perhaps, but she looked older than himself. The solution was so obvious!

"I'm sorry, mom. Please don't be mad at me…" the Prince whispered to Celestia in a melancholic voice, sniffing and looking down at the floor. He closed his eyes and prayed that by some miracle he did actually defuse the situation.

Unbeknownst to him those exact words not only were the one thing Celestia wasn't expecting to hear that day, but also served as a trigger for a memory she thought was long gone in a chapter of her life. For a brief moment, reality dissolved around her, and the memories flooded into her mind like a torrent…





It was the night of the funeral of Blueblood’s parents, and it was rainy and stormy outside. The princess was devastated when she saw how her little nephew, who was only three years old at the time, was trembling and crying his little eyes out in his sleep. When trying to comfort him, she brought him closer to her belly and used her wing as a blanket while humming a quiet lullaby to calm him down. It was a small change at first, but soon the trembling stopped and when she looked back, she found him sound asleep as he was hugging her tight like she was his personal teddy bear.

It was at that moment that, even unconsciously, he said his first words since that horrible incident:

"Mom."

Celestia was both moved and teary as the poor colt was not saying that word out of happiness but rather, of longing wishing to be next to his real mother and trying to reach out for her in his sleep with his little hooves. It was that night that Celestia made the promise to ensure that Blueblood would never be denied anything else, and subsequently the first pure moment he had with her.





The memory faded away and she returned to reality, but she didn't see the bratty nephew she cursed herself for creating. Instead, the scared little colt she once knew was once again shaking like a leaf and asking for his mother, but this time, he was addressing her directly.

There was no way Blueblood knew about that night. She had never told him. He never recalled knowing it, and he always, always called her 'Aunt' or 'Aunty' the moment he started to talk properly. She never admitted it, but part of her heart broke when she came to terms with the fact that she would always be just 'the aunt'.

So for this Blueblood to suddenly appear and say that to her could only mean one thing.

"By the stars…it's true," Celestia whispered at last, loud enough for Blueblood to hear. He opened his eyes and looked at her with a terrified gaze. "You really have lost all of your memories,”she said a little louder. He was pure again. Smiling and teary-eyed, she stared at him like she just saw a lost civilization come back to life.

Blueblood couldn’t believe what was happening, or how this pony just went from being about to rip him in half, into this crying, joyful mare from just one sentence. He just couldn't bring himself to believe that sentence was enough to save his skin and the shock was enough for him to collapse right then and there.

Dr. Caliber poked his head into the infirmary once more and sighed when he saw the prince’s state. He motioned to Flicker with a hoof. “Let’s get him back onto the table.”
> The First Steps (Edited By YB, CC And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After finishing reading yet another love letter addressed to her while eating some blueberry ice cream from a bowl, the Princess of the Night yawned in exhaustion, stretched her body, fluttered her wings, and smacked her lips together. Her regalia was already removed and set aside for maximum comfort.

Contrary to what her citizens or even her sister knew, the Princess of the Night actually enjoyed some of her sister’s sun’s rays before calling it a day, just as much as a pony would enjoy a part of her night before heading to bed. She simply didn't have much to do and looking after the dreams of her subjects often required a lot of effort on her part. So, by the time her duties were over, there wasn't much energy left in her.

To spend what little of her time remained she often tried to distract herself with some nice reading, some origami, or, as it was in this case, a nice laugh at pretenders wanting to mask their underlying wishes for power or money, disguising them as love letters. They believed that one thousand years of isolation had somehow made Princess Luna naive in the game of politics.

Oh, this one is by far the best. This stallion didn't even know how to write a love letter. It is, word for word, a poem I myself wrote five or six hundred years before my banishment… and it was addressing my favorite ice cream flavor!

The princess chuckled at the utter lack of effort the pitiful noble had put into his letter. She yawned.

Well, I think that is enough humor for one night.

She crumpled the piece of paper and put her now empty bowl on her nightstand before settling onto her bed, using her magic to place a blanket on top of her. Her eyes were already beginning to grow heavy as her consciousness slowly faded away.

Unfortunately, before sleep could finally reach her, a loud knocking on the door woke her up with a scare, making her leap up with a yelp and fall off her bed, her wings and legs getting tangled in the blanket in the process.

"Luna! Open the door! Open it now!" It was the voice of her fanatical, irritating sister calling for her on the other side. Luna growled and glared at the door as she stood up, untangling herself from the bedsheets and blanket.

“It’s ten in the bloody morning, sister. Equestria had better be under attack, or so help me…” she grumbled as she approached the door. "I hear you, Celestia! You can stop knocking now." She opened the door and looked at her sister, not even bothering to hide her anger. "Alright sister, where is the fire?"

Luna barely had a chance to process what was happening as her sister invited herself in and pulled her into a hug, spinning both of them around. "It happened, Lulu! It really happened! Our wish came true!" Celestia exclaimed in excitement as she continued to spin her poor sister around.

"Tia, unless you want me to vomit, I suggest you put me down this instant!" Luna grunted in both alarm and anger as she was starting to feel nauseous. Luckily for her, Celestia got the message and put her on the ground.

The moment her hooves touched the floor, the Princess of the Night tried to clear her head as she regained her bearings with a shake of her head. Mind free and clear she focused on her sister once more. "Now let's start this again, slowly. What is all the commotion and why couldn't it wait until night court?" she asked, crossing her front hooves.

The good spirit that possessed Celestia moments ago returned with a renewed vigor as she clapped her hooves in excitement. "Luna, the wish we made last night, do you still remember it?"

"Like it was eight hours ago, dear sister," Luna deadpanned.

"Well, it came true!" Celestia chirped. The joy she was feeling could be rivaled only by the Element of Laughter.

Luna, meanwhile, just kept staring at her, unamused. "Excuse me?"

"I know what you are thinking, Luna, but I swear it’s true! Blueblood is no longer the jerk you know. He is a completely different stallion!"

"…So, let me see if I got this right: you decided to disturb my carefully planned sleeping schedule by marching into my room and spinning me like a windmill without my consent for some kind of prank that our nephew is trying to pull on you?" Luna yawned. “Why am I still listening to this drivel when I could be in my sweet, blanketed paradise?”

"What?" Celestia glanced at her sister in bewilderment, just before she felt herself being teleported back out in the hallway just outside of the door to her sister’s room. A resounding thump and click confirmed Celestia’s suspicions: Luna actually had the nerve to lock her out!

"Do not buy his act, sister. He is trying to play you. Again,” Luna’s voice called out from beyond the door. “And please, don't wake me up unless Canterlot is actually under attack. Or if there’s pineapple for dinner, whatever…" Hoofsteps were heard on the other side of the wooden door, followed by telltale creeks of a bed frame, indicating that Luna had gone to bed.

Wow, was I really like that just a moment ago? Celestia thought to herself as she looked at the door with a measure of guilt. Oh, my poor nephew. It’s no wonder he passed out. I must have scared the fur off of him.

With a dejected sigh, Celestia decided to comply with her sister’s request and let her have some sleep. She couldn't actually blame Luna for being so grumpy. She, herself, would have been the same if Luna had barged into her room in the middle of the night. At the moment though, there were more urgent matters to attend to. Specifically day court, which, to her displeasure, was about to begin.

For now, she needed to perform her duties and hope that her nephew wouldn’t relapse into his old ways by the time Luna woke up. The clock is now ticking.





Meanwhile, in Blueblood’s room

The prince woke up with a groan. He sat up, bathed in the light from the open curtains shining onto his face. A few dull blinks of his eyes later he concluded that he was back in the same room where everything started.

"Good morning, Prince Blueblood.”

Looking to his right he saw a familiar looking purple maid cleaning the room with a feather duster that she floated through the air using her magic. "Did you sleep well?" she asked.

How is she…? Oh, right. Doctor Caliber told me magic exists here, Blueblood thought before answering.

 "Y-Yeah, I think so. Good morning to you too…Mist, was it?" he replied, his voice still raspy from sleep.

The maid nodded, approaching his side. "How are you feeling, my Prince? The doctor said that you should take things easy for a while.”

"I'm feeling better, thanks," Blueblood answered her with a smile. Then he blinked when a worrying thought entered his mind. "Is my mom still mad at me, Misty?"

Mist raised a curious eyebrow. "Misty?"

"Oh! Sorry, did I say something wrong?"

To his surprise, the maid only chuckled and shook her head. "Oh no, my Prince. It's just that I didn't expect you to give other ponies pet names. I really don't mind. In fact, I kind of like it. As for the princess, there is nothing to worry about. I’m sure she understands what is happening. She sends her apologies that she couldn't be here to greet you when you woke up." She put the feather duster away. "Also, for future reference, Princess Celestia is your aunt, not your mom.”

"Wait, really?" the prince asked her. "But her fur and mine are so similar."

"I know, right? I’ve heard some of the other staff joke that if you were to cover your mane and sit in front of her you would almost vanish," Mist chuckled.

Blueblood couldn’t help but join in on her merriment. "Well, we would certainly be doomed if we ever got lost in a snowstorm, huh?" he quipped.

Mist chuckles turned to laughter, more so out of the sheer ridiculousness of the situation. Just a few days ago she would have rolled her eyes at the prince’s ‘humor’, but now… Oh, to Tartarus with what Doctor Caliber said about helping recover his memories, I want this new Blueblood to stay!

Once their laughter died down, Mist looked at him again. "Anyway, Dr. Caliber told us that you lost all of your memories, right?"

Blueblood just sighed and looked down. "Yeah, I really can't remember a single thing, sorry. In fact, where are we right now?"

"In your room, my Prince," Mist answered. "And as for your lost memories, do not worry, my Prince. I assure you that everypony here in the castle will be more than happy to help you start over." Feeling a little daring, Mist placed a hoof on his shoulder. "You’re a fast learner, remember? Less than a day has gone by and you almost managed to walk by yourself!"

"Well, it might be because I have such a great instructor." Blueblood looked back at her, making her giggle and blush from embarrassment.

"Oh, you…" she started, and then an interesting idea entered her mind. "Would you like a tour of the castle? I can tell you what I know about Canterlot and it would be a good way for you to practice walking.”

"You know what, Mist, that sounds like a great idea," Blueblood responded with a nod before pulling the blankets away from him and, with shaky legs, managing to stand up. "Where should we start?"

"How about the royal gardens?” she offered. “They’re beautiful at this time of the day, with plenty of fresh air, and there are lots of different animals for you to see. My cousin calls it horticultural therapy."

"Sounds good to me. Lead the way, Misty," the prince chirped with excitement as he started to advance toward the door, wobbling on his hooves and almost losing his balance on more than one occasion, until he finally got a steady rhythm.

Okay! I think I found the trick. It’s like walking on your hands and knees, more or less.

The prince nodded to himself and with some degree of difficulty managed to reach the door, with Mist close by in case he needed assistance.

Okay, so far so good. They think I have amnesia. I just have to keep playing along until I find a way home.

The prince nodded again. With growing determination and some navigation help from Mist, they made their way toward the gardens.





Meanwhile, at the train station

A tall, slender, pink alicorn with a tri-colored mane and tail, a small golden tiara on her head, golden horseshoes, and a golden, heart-shaped peytral stepped out of the train station, carrying a baby filly tucked against her with her right foreleg. Said baby was a light pink alicorn with a purple mane and tail featuring a blue streak through them. Once outside, the tall alicorn looked back with some exasperation.

"Shining Armor, please, I’m begging you, just let the guards take our luggage," she pleaded as a white unicorn with a blue mane and tail approached them, carrying four large and heavy suitcases on his back. He was struggling to maintain his balance as he walked.

"And I told you, Cadance, that our guards can’t…urgh…defend us if they’re too busy carrying our luggage. Besides, I can take this, n-no… p-problem…" he wheezed. It became apparent soon after that the weight was too much to bear and he collapsed unceremoniously on the train platform. The nearby guards chuckled, already used to this behavior from the royal couple.

Cadance rolled her eyes skyward. “Oh Celestia, give me strength… or give my little Shiny more strength.” she murmured before using her magic to levitate their luggage and handing it to the guards, who nodded and took it away.

Shining groaned, displeased. "Caddy, why did you do that? I got…"

Cadance silenced him by giving him a quick peck on the lips. "I know you did, my strong, capable husband. But you’re a prince now and we have our own ponies for things like that." She then brought the filly in front of him. "And Flurry doesn’t want to give up sitting on her daddy’s back, right Flurry?"

Flurry, as expected, giggled and extended her tiny hooves to Shining, waiting to be picked up.

Shining couldn't resist the adorable sight and caved, gathering up his little filly and placing her on his back. "I just can't say no to those adorable eyes. They’re weapons of mass compliance, I tell you," he cooed with a smile, looking at Cadance. "And I know what you did just now."

Cadance surprised him with another kiss, feigning ignorance with a flutter of her eyelashes. "I don't know what you are talking about, dear."

"Suuure you don't," Shining replied with a roll of his eyes as they walked through the streets of Canterlot.

"Oh, I can't wait to see my auntie!" Cadance exclaimed in excitement, prancing along as they continued.

Shining laughed and shook his head at the display his wife was making. "I don’t doubt it. You didn't stop talking about it the whole way here. I think even the train conductor knows why we’re here.”

"Can you blame me? This could possibly be the first time Aunt Celly will be able to add a student exchange program at her school! You know it’s one of the most prestigious schools for magic in all of Equestria."

"It sure is," Shining agreed with a nod. "Although, I still think that we should have told her that we built our own school in the Crystal Empire when we first broke ground on the project."

"And ruin the surprise? Come on dear, where is your sense of mischief? Besides, she was probably too busy with the news of Twilight opening her own School of Friendship."

"Okay, point taken," Shining conceded as they kept moving. "I still find it funny that Twilight thought of building her own school only a couple of months after we opened ours.” He chuckled a bit. “It's almost like building a school is the new trend amongst royalty.”

"Are you sure you didn't mention it in a letter to her?" Cadance looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

Shining shook his head, perhaps a little too quickly. "My lips were sealed, I swear. I assure you it was a total coincidence. Completely and utterly.  My sister, the self proclaimed Princess of Books, opened a place of higher learning. Who would have thought?"

"Well, I still think it was very sweet of her," Cadance replied with a knowing smirk.

"Yeah, it sure was."

After their exchange, the royal couple continued their walk in blissful silence until they reached the castle. Unfortunately for them, they arrived at a poor time as Princess Celestia was busy attending day court and Luna was too tired to receive them properly. 

There was not much else for them to do other than unpack their things and wait for Celestia to finish her duties, so they made their way to the VIP guest chambers and began to unpack. With their luggage set aside, they decided to take a walk through the castle, mostly for nostalgia and so they could tell Flurry about all of the adventures they had when they lived in Canterlot.

"…And right here was when your father finally got the courage to give me his first kiss, Flurry,” Cadance finished telling the story of how she and Shining got together as they strolled through the royal gardens. They soon approached a cherry blossom tree, where they decided to rest in its shade.

"Oh, come on, Cadance, don’t lie to the kid. 'Finally got the courage'? That’s not how I remember it," Shining argued while he prepared to feed Flurry some apple sauce.

"You’re right, dear,” Cadance conceded with a giggle. Then she sent him a wicked smirk. “You also stuttered a lot. Oh, you were so cute back then,” She made an exaggerated face and deepened her voice. “P-P-Princess M-Mi Amore Cadenza, I was thinking, s-s-since this is our third d-date, May I have permission to, uh, could I…um give y-you a small k-ki…"

She would’ve continued had Shining not raised a hoof, his face beet-red. "Okay, I get it. In my defense, I had every right to be nervous. I was barely a recruit at the time and you had already become the Princess of Love!" he said lamely, much to his wife’s amusement.

"And you’re still just as adorable as you were back then and it was a very nice kiss," she said, stroking his ego a bit before backing away and serving herself some tea. "You know I'm just teasing you, honey." Cadance moved closer and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “I love you.”

"Yeah, I know,” Shining chuckled. “I love you too."

They continued to cuddle until they heard hoof steps approaching. Shining looked up, his expression curious. "Do you think it’s Princess Celestia?" he wondered aloud.

"Probably. I did ask one of the guards to tell her where we were as soon as she was available," Cadance replied.

They turned around to see that it was instead Blueblood who was walking beside a maid. The royals instantly groaned in annoyance and looked away. Even Flurry was matching their faces. She did not like him ever since he declared her to be the ‘fruit of wasted royal blood' on her Crystalling. She didn’t understand the phrase, but she understood his tone.

"Ugh! What is he doing here?" Cadance hissed.

“Just ignore him, dear. Be still. I hear that monsters like him can only see things if they move," Shining whispered to her, doing his best to ignore the blue pest. Cadance and Flurry were doing the same until something caught the attention of the two royals that had them look at Blueblood again.

"…And then the three tribes decided to join forces and put their differences aside to build what is now known as Equestria," Mist finished her story as they came to a stop in front of an apple tree.

"Wow! And what happened to the Windigos? Are they still around?" Blueblood asked, words laden with curiosity, confusing the royal couple.

"From what I remember, the Hearth's Warming tale says they still exist beyond the Crystal Empire, on the other side of Mount Everhoof," Mist replied as Blueblood stood on his hind hooves to reach up and grab an apple.

Why is he not using his magic? Cadance wondered, growing even more confused as to what she is seeing. The rest of her family mirrored her expression and thoughts.

With a light chuckle and shake of her head, Mist helped the prince and picked the apple without him noticing. Blueblood cheered in success and dropped back on all fours. Before he had a chance to take a bite, a small bunny appeared from some bushes and looked at the prince and maid with pleading eyes.

Cadance expected the prince to shoo the critter away and just eat the apple but, to her surprise, he instead gave it a twist and split it in half The larger of which he offered to the bunny.

"Here you go, little guy."

The sight was enough to make all three of the royal family drop their jaws when they saw how he was being nice to another living thing. He was even petting it while it ate!

Changeling. It had to be.

The maid and prince turned around to leave, only to spy the royal family looking directly at them. Mist was pleasantly surprised at seeing the Princess of Love in the gardens, and wondered why she was here. Blueblood, meanwhile, resorted to the oldest and surest form of peaceful greeting any civilized creature in any universe could give: smile and wave.

"Oh, uh, nice day we are having?" he inquired of them before gathering up the bunny in his hooves, which added to the shock factor of the royals. When he received no response, he tilted his head to the side and added, “Um, hello? Are you okay? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

That did it. While Cadance and Flurry continued to stare in shock at Blueblood, Shining fainted.
> A Spoon Of Love (Edited By CC, YB And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"He’s lost all of his memories?" Cadance asked in surprise as she and Shining Armor talked to Mist, who had asked them for a moment of their time while the prince went to play with Flurry not too far from them. The baby in question was initially opposed to the idea, but it had only taken a few instances of baby talk and some tickling from the prince to win the filly over.

"Shhh, not so loud!" Mist whisper-shouted to them in alarm before looking back at the prince, who was helping Flurry pet a group of bunnies that had gathered around them. "Yes, that’s what happened. We don't know why or how and Dr. Caliber gave him every single test that he could think of, but he couldn't find a single thing that would have provoked the amnesia. His mind just…started over from scratch. Right now he’s like a kid seeing the world for the first time."

She looked back at them. "And unless we want the insufferable brat of a prince back, we need to be careful not to trigger any of his memories, not until this new persona settles in permanently."

Shining raised an eyebrow and frowned. "Isn't that morally questionable? It’s almost like we’re brainwashing him."

Mist sent him a deadpan look. "Prince Shining Armor, with all due respect, do you really want the old Blueblood back?" The memories of her standard work day caused her to shudder involuntarily.

"Celestia forbid!" Shining gave a vehement shake of his head. "For some reason, he kept calling me and all the other guards 'Clank' every time he needed something. It was funny at first but after the second month we all wanted to glue our ears shut."

"And he called every maid in the castle 'Dulcy'," Mist added with a sigh. "Look, I know this looks morally wrong but I think it could be a gift from the heavens. The only thing we need to do is welcome this new Blueblood into our lives and all of our nightmares will be a thing of the past."

The couple kept their eyes on her, hearing her proposal in their heads, then looked back at the prince who was happily playing with their daughter. Eventually, a small smile spread across Shining’s face, and he nodded in agreement.

“I must admit, I like him better this way. Normally I wouldn't trust him within ten paces from my little Flurry.”

Cadance, meanwhile, still felt a little unsure. "He looks so happy now. I don't think I have ever seen him smile like that. Having a smirk or a smug smile on him, sure. That was his default face, but honestly happy? I think this is the first time I have ever seen him like that," she wondered aloud.

"It would be too cruel to strip him of that happiness," Shining commented as he looked at Mist. "I think you’re right, Mist. Maybe this is for the best."

"Thank you for understanding, Your Highnesses," Mist replied with a graceful bow.

Cadance sent her a worried glance before looking at Blueblood again. She then made her decision and adopted a determined look, stepping toward him. "I need to confirm it for myself," she murmured.

"Princess, please, be careful. You could…"

"Please Mist, I understand your feelings, but I’ve had to live with him for far longer than you. I have to know if this is true. I must," Cadance assured her.

Shining and Mist looked at one another, a bit unsure, but complied and let her go to her cousin. Blueblood, at that moment, was lifting Flurry up and down while making airplane sounds. Cadance, in turn, had her wings extended, and was taking a defensive, protective stance as he moved Flurry around.

Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath, the princess put on her best facade and approached them with her calmest smile. "I see you two are having fun," she said, gaining the attention of the prince and the baby, the latter reaching up for her.

"Oh, sorry miss," Blueblood answered with some embarrassment as he let go of Flurry, allowing her to fly over to her mother. "I didn't mean to bother you.”

"Don't worry, it’s no bother," said Cadance, keeping her mask on. As she gathered Flurry up in her forelegs, she looked back at her cousin. "So, I just talked with your maid, Blueblood. I'm really sorry for your loss. It must have been very frightening, waking up one day only to realize that you don't recall anything whatsoever."

"Honestly, not really. Can’t really miss what you don’t remember." Blueblood sighed, his gaze falling. "But not knowing how to walk was something that really scared me. In fact, I'm trying not to think of what else is gone. I could die of embarrassment right here, right now, if it turns out that I can't even well…answer the call of nature." His cheeks flushed red for a moment.

Cadance narrowed her gaze, although he didn’t notice. "Funny…you don't seem all that scared."

To everypony’s surprise, the prince only chuckled in response as he looked up at her again. "Miss, how would panic help me right now? In any kind of emergency, the first step one must always take is to keep calm. Right now, I have no one to turn to, nowhere to feel safe. I don’t even have a reason to believe anything you’re saying to me. I am afraid, miss, and that is making me extremely paranoid. Yet I know that if I give into what my emotions are telling me now, I won’t have any answers and these fears will just keep getting worse."

For a brief moment, Cadance thought she saw tears in his eyes as he continued, "I need to believe that I can trust the ponies around me and the only way I can do so is to swallow my fears, stand up, and stay on guard. While at the same time, listening to what you have to say until I can really trust in myself again."

Even though part of her mind was screaming to her that he was lying, Cadance could feel another part of her telling her otherwise. Her cousin wasn't lying. He truly was scared, even to the point of being shaken. And yet, despite this, the prince just kept smiling at her and trying his best to be friendly.

Needless to say, that image alone was surreal and perplexing for the Princess of Love and, as much as she wanted to feel sorry for him and try to help him, there was still a part of her that protested against that idea. Blueblood was known to be a schemer and a deceiver. He knew every single tactic in the book of manipulation. Some could argue that he wrote it. And he knew how to play the game of politics better than most. He could be pulling her strings right now and the princess wouldn't suspect a thing.

Emotions and thoughts ran rampant through the princess’s head, leaving her at an impasse on what to do next. In the end, there was nothing else she could do other than keep up her facade and continue to search for any flaws in his acting or cracks in his mask.

She put on her smile once more and tipped her head towards him. "That is a very mature and logical way to treat your problem, Blueblood. Something that is worthy of praise."

"Nah, miss, there’s nothing to praise. I'm just a humble per…pony trying to keep calm and find a solution to his current problem."

It was brief, and few ponies would notice it, but not Cadance. She noticed it: a slight slip of the tongue, and a very quick word change. It was as if he had something to hide. 

There it was, a crack in his acting. Now she knew and all her doubts were gone. Her cousin was still there, and he was using her once more. He was doing an incredible job at it. She was still unsure as to why he was doing it, but it was still clear to her: he was pretending.

Got you! Cadance smirked, thinking that she had found his scheme. There were still puzzle pieces missing, but her cousin was indeed hiding something.

"You are giving yourself too little credit, Bluey," Cadance spoke in a silvery way, emphasizing a particular nickname that she knew for sure would infuriate Blueblood. It was a trigger for him that would, without fail, always result in him throwing one of his trademark tantrums. "You always knew how to make a convincing act," she finished, confidently closing her eyes and waiting for her cousin to slip and break his oh-so convincing mask.

It never came. Instead, Blueblood’s next words threw her off-guard completely.

"Bluey?" he asked, tilting his head to the side. "Sorry miss, did we know each other from before?"

Cadance’s jaw dropped, and despite her best attempts to speak, she remained tongue-tied. How is this happening? That nickname was his biggest weakness, no matter how much he tried or what tricks he used. Even when he hypnotized himself he couldn't escape it! That word should have made him give up the act!

Her own mask was cracking, not his. This wasn’t part of the plan!

"W-well…I…" she stammered.

"She is your cousin, my Prince." It was Mist that came to Cadance's rescue, accompanied by her husband. "Prince Blueblood, allow me to introduce you: this is Prince Shining Armor, and your cousin, Princess Mi Amo…"

Cadance covered Mist’s muzzle with a hoof. "Just Cadance is fine, Mist," she said quickly, a nervous smile etched on her face.

"Cousin?! Then that means…" He turned to Flurry, who looked back at him with wide eyes. "Am I your cousin once-removed, hmmm?" he asked her with a chuckle, and Flurry giggled in response.

Blueblood looked back at the royal couple and the maid. “Well, I certainly didn’t expect this. No wonder you were calling me Bluey." He stepped over to Cadance and gave her a small hug. "Oh Cadance, you were probably so concerned for me, and I not only didn't recognize you, I also told you I didn’t trust you. I’m so sorry.”

"I…it's okay, Blueblood," Cadance replied somewhat stiffly on account of being hugged by her least-favorite cousin. With a nervous chuckle, she awkwardly returned the hug, patting his back. Okay, it’s official, now this is now the weirdest thing I’ve done in a while, she noted inwardly.

As the longer-than-comfortably-normal hug continued, a guard approached the group and saluted. "Your Highnesses?"

Shining turned to him. "Yes?"

"Princess Celestia just became available and would like to receive both of you at your earliest convenience."

"Hey, great!" Blueblood said, letting go of Cadance. "I could go with you and apologize for the confusion back in the infirmary."

He turned to leave, only for Mist to approach him. "I would advise against that, Prince Blueblood, at least for now. Doctor’s orders."

"What? Why?" he asked.

"After the scare that resulted in your collapse, Dr. Caliber determined that you need more time to adjust before you confront the source of stress again."

"I see. Well, if the doctor says I could, I suppose I can see her later, right?"

Mist nodded and took his hoof with her own, smiling. "Come with me, my Prince. There’s still a lot of the castle for us to cover. You can talk with the princess during dinner."

"Okay," Blueblood relented, and he and Mist started to leave. Before they did, however, he turned to the royal couple and waved at them. "Hope I see you there! Tell my aunt that I said hi, okay?"

"Will do, Blueblood," Shining called after him, as he and Flurry waved back. Cadance, meanwhile, stood still as a statue as she watched her cousin leave, her mind going back to the hug and the puzzling words he spoke.

Once the prince and his guide were out of sight, Shining turned to his wife and nudged her with his snout. "Caddy? Are you okay?"

"I-I don't get it…" she mumbled.

"What are you not getting, sweetie?"

"He is both acting and telling the truth at the same time," Cadance uttered, blinking twice and shaking her head.

Shining raised an eyebrow. "What?"

"I mean, Mist was right. He doesn't recall a single memory. Nothing, and yet the way he’s handling things, how he keeps calm, even how he keeps looking at everything with awe and curiosity, he seems so wise and mature.” She lightly stomped a hoof on the ground. “It doesn't make sense!"

"Cadance, he has amnesia. Of course he would be acting like that."

"You don't understand, Shining." She looked back at where Blueblood left, frowning. "While we were talking, I saw for a brief moment some kind of panic and not the type of panic of somepony who doesn't know where he is. It was a panic of somepony about to say something secret."

"So you think there’s something he remembers?"

"Exactly. I think Blueblood's mind isn’t totally gone, but what he does recall he doesn't want to talk about for some reason."

"Well, that is unexpected. Why would you think he doesn't want to tell anypony?

"I don't know, Shining. I simply don't know."

Off to the side, the guard, having long since been forgotten, much to his perpetual annoyance, cleared his throat. Startled, the couple looked back at him, finally remembering that they were in public. "Your highnesses? The princess?" the guard repeated, his eyes half-lidded.

"Oh! Right, right, lead the way," said Shining. The royals moved to follow the guard, who guided them back into the castle.

Cadance looked back for a moment to where she last saw Blueblood leaving, and her eyes narrowed. I don't know what you’re hiding, Blueblood, but I'm going to find out. And I swear, if you’re planning something bad, I will stop you.





In the throne room

Celestia waited patiently until the end of her final request of the day: a proposition from a pegasus with white fur and a blue mane and tail, with an eye on top of a target for a cutie mark.

"Thank you for your offering, Lord Sharp Shot," Celestia stopped him by lifting one of her hooves. "But I’ll have to decline it. Right now, there is no need for me to have another advisor. But rest assured, I always take the suggestions of my subjects into consideration, and I appreciate the offer."

The pegasus bowed to her. "As your wish, Princess Celestia. Know that my door will always be open in case you change your mind."

"I will remember it," she replied, dismissing him with a small wave.

The stallion turned around and started to leave, just as Cadance and Shining Armor entered the room. The guards at the entrance immediately stood at attention.

Celestia brightened up when she saw them enter and she smiled. "Ah! Cadance and Shining Armor, such a pleasure to see you both," she said with a cheery voice. The two princesses shared a hug while Shining gave a respectful bow. Then Celestia felt something different about her niece. She almost felt stiff. "Cadance? Is something wrong?"

"Oh, it’s nothing, Aunt Celestia. It's just…I ran into Blueblood not too long ago."

The moment he heard those words, Sharp Shot, who had only just left the throne room, had his interest piqued. After making a mad dash to hide behind a nearby pillar, he leaned back a bit to eavesdrop on the royals’ conversation, while trying to remain as inconspicuous as possible. This was Blueblood they were talking about, after all. News about that brat was always so juicy.

"Oh, so I gather you know what happened, right?" Celestia guessed.

"It was so unexpected, to say the least."

Oh? What do we have here? Sharp Shot thought with some interest.

"I mean, seeing him act so nice and polite was something I will gladly welcome and wish for, but seeing it actually happen in front of me really threw me off. This is the first time I’ve heard that amnesia could do that to a pony."

The prince has amnesia? Sharp Shot eyes widened in surprise. He would’ve remained in his position longer, only to feel somepony breathing down his neck, scaring him half to death. The moment he turned around, he saw a guard glaring right at him.

"Ah, my deepest apologies. I will take my leave now,” Sharp Shot quickly said.

"Let me escort you," the guard offered sarcastically, gluing himself to the noble as they both left the palace, leaving the royals in peace.

Meanwhile, in the throne room, Shining cleared his throat and addressed the two princesses. "Not wanting to break the moment or anything, but…" He glanced at his wife. "Honey, wasn't there another thing you wanted to tell the princess?"

"Oh, right! Thank you so much, dear," Cadance said, her excitement returning in force. She gave her husband a quick peck on the cheek before turning back to Celestia. "Aunty, I would like to tell you that, following your example, Shining and I made our own school of magic for gifted crystal ponies!"

"You did?" Celestia replied, excitement in her tone. "Cadance, that’s wonderful! I'm so happy for you!"

"It's not exactly like yours, princess," Shining added, raising a hoof. "This one is more focused on the nature of the magic of the crystal ponies and the study of emotions and how it could affect one's body. The results have been very promising. We have found that seven spectra of emotions linked to the magic of our subjects could be influenced by different spells. We’re discovering new magic every day!"

"That is incredible,” Celestia uttered in glee. “How long have you had this school open?"

"A couple of months before Twily got hers," Shining replied with a chuckle.

"That much progress in so little time? You must be so proud of your little ponies."

Cadance nodded and let out a quick giggle. "We are! But that isn’t the only reason we came to visit," she said. "Tell me, Aunt Celestia, how would you like to introduce a new exchange student program into your own school?"

Celestia let out a gasp. "Really?"

The couple nodded in unison. "It would be an honor to have some of your students for a while and give ours a chance to expand their horizons in magic," Shining said, no longer hiding his grin.

"Well, of course, I accept!" Celestia cheered, bringing the couple into a group hug with her large wings. "You know I always love to see the exploration of new magic and discovering more about pony kind."

Cadance let out a laugh at her aunt’s reaction. "We thought you would, so we brought the paperwork with us so we could make it official."

"You did?" Celestia asked, ending the hug.

Cadance nodded. "Indeed we did. We’re going to stay for a couple days so we won't interrupt your day court and allow us to catch up with you and Aunt Luna."

"By the way, does she know?" Shining interjected.

Celestia frowned slightly. "Well, I tried to tell her, but…well, it’s Blueblood who we’re talking about. Can you blame her for not believing it without evidence?"

"Not really,” Cadance admitted. “Even I had to confront him to make sure. Even then, there are still things that don’t make sense to me."

"Caddy, maybe it's for the best to leave it for now. Blueblood is still sorting his thoughts and will tell us when he feels he is ready," said Shining.

"Tell us what?" Celestia asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I'm not sure yet," Cadance sighed, looking up at Celestia with a serious expression. "But something tells me that Blueblood didn't lose all of his memories." She trotted over to a window and leaned over the windowsill, watching as the prince and Mist explored the castle’s hedge maze. "There is something he still remembers aunty and yet, for some reason, he’s keeping it to himself."

"I think you’re overreacting, Caddy," Shining repeated. "He told us that he’s mostly just afraid."

"Shining is right,” Celestia said with a nod of agreement. “Even if Blueblood remembers something he is changing for the better. I say that he has earned the benefit of the doubt.”

"Maybe…but still, there is something bothering me about all of this,” Cadance conceded, and she looked out over the hedge maze once more, just as Blueblood and Mist exited out the other end. “And until I can figure out what it is, I’ll keep a close eye on him."
> A Blue Sunset (Edited By YB, CC And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Princess of the Night stretched and ruffled her wings as she made her way to her balcony to raise the moon. Once there, she looked to her sister’s tower, quickly spotting Celestia looking back at her. Sharing a nod, the two sisters shifted their attention to the sky and, lifting their forehooves and making their horns shine, they commenced their daily ritual once more. The day was coming to a close as the moon announced its arrival. The sky burst into a beautiful sunset, yellows and orange blazed across the sky until finally the stars peeked out from their blanket of the night, moving into their usual positions to form constellations.

With their ritual complete, Luna dropped back on all four hooves and gave a final glance to her sister, who smiled back at her and retired to her chambers. Luna followed suit, knowing that she would see Celestia soon enough in the dining room.

Shutting the balcony door behind her with her magic, she opened her closet and donned her regalia. Her pet possum, Tiberius, was beginning to stir in his own bed, opening his mouth in a wide, toothy yawn and arching his back up like a cat in a long stretch.

Luna smiled as she approached him, gently petting his head. "Good morning, Tiberius," she cooed. “I trust that you slept well?” The possum licked her hoof in reply.

A knock at the door caught the blue alicorn’s attention. "Princess Luna? Do you have a moment?" a stallion’s voice called out from the other side.

"Of course, just a moment," the princess replied, placing some food on Tiberius’s plate and moving to the door. She unlocked and opened the door to reveal a familiar stallion holding a folder in his hoof. "Ah, Dr. Caliber, how may I help you?" she asked.

"Just some precautions, Your Highness. I don't want you scaring my patient until he faints again, like your sister did," he explained, mumbling the last part under his breath.

However, the princess’s sharp hearing was able to pick up on the muffled speech. She narrowed her gaze at him. "What do you mean, ‘like my sister did’? Doctor, what are you talking about?"

The doctor passed the princess a folder. "Here, you should take a look at this."

She grabbed the folder in her magic and started to inspect its contents, her eyes quickly darting over the pages contained within. "I'm sorry, I don't follow. This seems like an ordinary medical report. Everything seems to be in order here."

"Exactly!” Caliber pointed out, retrieving the folder again. "This is every single test I gave the prince this morning. Blueblood is in peak condition."

Luna, now beginning to understand what was happening, sighed in frustration. "I am fully capable of reading a medical chart, doctor. Blueblood appears to be in perfect health for a stallion his age." She cast her gaze around, warily looking up and down the hallway outside her room as if expecting somepony pink to jump out and blast her with confetti. "Did you stop to think that, perhaps, he is playing some kind of practical joke?"

Caliber shook his head. "I can assure you, Your Highness, this isn’t a joke. In fact, this is extremely serious." The doctor stepped away from the door and motioned with a hoof down the hallway. "Please, walk with me."

Luna looked at him with a raised eyebrow but decided to humor the stallion. She allowed him to guide her through the hallways.

"The details of how it happened continue to elude me but the results are crystal clear, princess. Your nephew has a very unusual type of amnesia. He couldn't remember his own name and had to be taught how to walk again." He looked back at her. "That being said, his condition seems stable enough at the moment, and he has shown some remarkable signs of improvement."

"Or he is giving the best performance of his life." Luna retorted with a roll of her eyes.

Caliber sighed and closed his eyes. "Your sister thought the same and, as annoying as it is, I can't really blame either of you. This truly is something that needs to be seen to be believed."

“I suppose, although I doubt I will be convinced,” Luna said with a shrug of her wings.

"Then all I can ask is that you try not to scare him too much. His condition is a delicate one," he informed her. Caliber pulled a loose sheet of paper out of the folder and passed it to her. "Please take this, princess."

"More medical charts?"

"No, just some questions I would like you to ask. I had thought that, as the guardian of Equestria’s dreams, you could find more clues on how all this happened while he sleeps. Just be careful while you're there and not force any memories to the surface if he’s unwilling."

Luna gave him a flat look. "Dr. Caliber, are you seriously telling me, the mare who literally wrote the book on dream magic centuries ago, along with its second edition of the present day, to be careful while stepping into somepony’s dreams?"

"My deepest apologies, Your Highness. Just consider it my concern for the well-being of the royal family running ahead of my common sense," he replied. "Please inform me of any findings you make while in his head. This type of amnesia is something that I truly haven't seen before and I would rather not let it become an unsolved mystery."

"I will keep that in mind, doctor," Luna said with a nod, taking the instructions with her. "Now go home. It’s late, and I’m sure your family is waiting for you."

The doctor smiled and gave her a nod. "Thank you, Your Highness. Have a lovely evening."

"You too, doctor. Sweet dreams."

After exchanging goodbyes, the two parted ways and left in different directions. Luna soon found her way to the dining room, where her sister was waiting for her with a plate of salad placed on a long, ornate oak table. Celestia sat at one end while Luna’s seat lay waiting for her at the opposite end.

"Good evening, sister,” Celestia offered her a smile, raising a cup of tea. "I hope you slept well."

"Indeed I did, sister," Luna replied as she took her seat. "And now that I'm well-rested and my mood more pleasant I would like to address the subject of Blueblood as he appears.” She looked at Celestia with a raised eyebrow, just as a maid — Mist, if she remembered correctly — approached the Princess of the Night and placed down her breakfast. "Are you still clinging to the idea of our nephew’s change of heart? Or did you finally come to your senses again?”

Much to Luna’s displeasure, Celestia shook her head with a demure smile. "It is like I told you Luna. Our prayers have indeed been answered and I can only consider it a miracle. Our nephew has changed for the better. He is once again the stallion I wanted you to meet."

"Tia, please, listen to yourself!" Luna pleaded. "A mysterious case of amnesia and he’s suddenly so friendly? Dr. Caliber informed me of all of this but none of it adds up. Yes, I believe that ponies can change, I’m living proof of that, but for one such as him to change so quickly without an external force such as the Elements of Harmony? That is why I find this whole thing so ridiculous. Such change does not happen overnight."

Celestia bowed her head slightly at what her sister said, acknowledging her argument and letting her vent. She knew quite well that had their positions been reversed, she would be making the same argument. "I suppose this is something you need to see to believe, isn't it, sister?"

"I'm afraid so, Tia. It seems that you’re either getting rusty in discerning one's character or our nephew has found your weak spot and managed to exploit it so subtly that you are not seeing things clearly. Your emotions are clouding your judgment.”

"We’ll see, dear Lulu," Celestia replied, donning a bemused smirk.

"Yes, that we will," Luna agreed in a flat voice, accepting her sister’s challenge.

An uncomfortable silence settled over the table for a few moments, before Celestia cleared her throat, eager to change the subject. "Ah, I almost forgot, Cadance and Shining Armor are here. They came for a surprise visit and will be staying a couple of days here at the castle.” Celestia took a sip from her teacup. “They wanted to discuss some sort of plan involving my school.”

"Well, now that is certainly more heartening news," Luna replied in-between bites of her meal. "It's always nice when our niece and her husband come for a visit, for as short as it so often is."

As if on cue, the door to the dining room opened to reveal the royal couple in question. Cadance’s already radiant smile brightened further when she saw Luna sitting at the table. "Auntie Luna!" she sang, rushing towards her aunt and embracing her with her hooves and wings. Flurry Heart, not wanting to be left out, flew towards Luna as well to give her muzzle a hug.

"Dearest niece and grandniece, it's always a pleasure to see you," Luna cooed warmly, enveloping them both in a hug and nuzzling their cheeks together with her own. "Celly told me that you’ll be staying at the castle for a time?"

"That's right! There's some business that we’d like to take care of and we wanted to make sure that we stopped by to say hi."

"You know that all of you are always welcome here." The hug ended and the family took their seats and were served their meals. Cadance didn't waste time and began to feed Flurry, but unlike everypony else, she refused to eat.

"What’s the matter, dear?" Cadance asked her daughter.

Celestia hummed, a knowing smile on her face. "I do believe Flurry wishes to wait for everypony to be present before we eat.”

Shining turned to his daughter and nuzzled her cheek. "Is that true, pumpkin? You want to wait for Blueblood?"

Luna coughed on her bite and wiped her mouth with a napkin. "Blueblood will be joining us?"

"I know! Crazy, huh?" Shining answered her. "We met him this afternoon in the garden. It really took us by surprise how much he’s changed."

Luna face-hooved. "Oh no, Shining, not you too…" she groaned. "His amnesia is nothing but an act! Can’t you see he’s playing you all?"

"I'm not so sure, auntie," Cadance answered. "Like you, I had my own doubts. I tried to break through that mask of his but it was more solid than administratium. He didn't budge an inch. I'm sure that he’s hiding something but the part about him not remembering his past seems to be true.”

Celestia snickered in a rather unladylike manner. "I’d hate to tell you that I told you so, Luna, but I told you so." She took another sip of her raspberry tea.

Luna glared at her sister and glanced at Cadance in worry. This is becoming more troublesome by the second. Cadance has known Blueblood even before she earned her horn! They practically grew up together. Other than Celestia, she may be the only one that truly knows how he thinks. If he really has managed to fool her…there is a high chance that strong magic may be involved. Or perhaps rogue changelings. I must remain vigilant.

Nopony had anything else to add so the room fell into silence while everypony waited for Blueblood. The tension in the air was slowly increasing and making everypony present very uncomfortable. It wasn't until they heard the tell-tale sound of hooves approaching that they focused on the door once more in anticipation for the final guest to arrive.

The doors finally opened and the most-recent hire, a young, male unicorn butler with a joyous expression, gray fur, and short white mane and tail entered quietly before moving aside, allowing Prince Blueblood to enter. Blueblood looked at everypony in the room, embarrassment clearly showing on his face as he rubbed the back of his head. "I am so sorry, everypony. Clean Breeze told me where to go but I got sidetracked by some beautiful mosaic windows and ended up losing myself in them," he explained, trotting in quickly. "Luckily, Silver Treat found me and he was kind enough to guide me…" he froze, feeling everypony’s eyes on him, he looked around in slight confusion. "Is this a bad time?"

"Oh no, not at all, dear nephew. Please join us," Celestia offered him a seat next to her, which he promptly accepted. The butler, Silver Treat, bowed and took his leave, closing the door behind him. A maid approached Blueblood and offered him a salad plate and a glass of sweet-smelling tea. Blueblood smiled and thanked the maid as she left, surprising her for a moment before she resumed her duties. All the while, Luna and Cadance never stopped eyeing him with suspicion.

Blueblood was about to take a bite of his salad when he noticed the mare on the other side of the table staring at him. Feeling unnerved but not wanting to appear unfriendly, he turned and smiled warmly at her. "Hello miss, I don't think we’ve met before."

Luna arched her brow, not believing a word. "So it would seem…"

Celestia glanced between the two of them, feeling the tension rising, and decided to intervene. "Blueblood?"

"Yes mom? Oh! I-I mean, auntie?" Blueblood quickly corrected himself with a slight shake of his head. "I need to get that clear in my head," he mumbled to himself, completely oblivious that his words touched Celestia’s heart, even if they were by accident.

She recovered quickly though, and continued, "I would like for you to meet your other aunt." She gestured to her sister. "Princess Luna."

"Greetings, nephew," Luna said in a harsh, somewhat cold voice, which confused Blueblood. Celestia shot a glare at her before using her magic to give her a little shove in the shoulder as a warning.

Luna understood the message and decided to play along. Acting quickly and skillfully, she cast a charm on her own mind to block any type of mental manipulation or hypnosis before speaking once more. "I’ve been informed that you were struck by a mysterious and severe case of amnesia. Is that true, nephew?"

Blueblood nodded in reply. "Yes, so I've been told."

Luna’s eyes remained focused on him, studying his every move as if he were a bug under a magnifying lens. "It must have been a horrible ordeal,” she continued, glancing down at her food and stabbing at her salad with a fork.

"Oh yeah, at first it was terrifying. But thankfully, I'm not so worried now."

"Truly?" Luna took another bite of her meal and continued to gaze at him with judging eyes. "And why might that be?"

"Sister…" Celestia warned.

Luna ignored her, and pressed her subtle attack. "Did you, by chance, recover a piece of your memory? Perhaps you have remembered something that you wish to ask us? Hmm?"

"Well…" Blueblood started, then put a hoof to his chin in thought. "Actually, yeah, there is something."

And there it is! "And what would that be?" Luna smirked.

Blueblood looked at her, then at Celestia with some curiosity. "What’s up with your mane and tail?"

Luna jumped up from her seat and pointed a hoof at Blueblood. "Ah-ha! I knew you were…wait, what?" She froze, watching as Blueblood extended his own hoof and tried to catch some of Celestia's mane, making her giggle at the touch.

"Blueblood, that tickles!" Celestia laughed, before looking sideways and shooting a smug smirk in Luna's direction.

"Ah, sorry." He retracted his hoof and leaned back in his chair.

"What? That’s it?" Luna asked in disbelief. "That’s all you wanted to know?"

"Well, I was also kind of wondering why all the mares in my family apparently have wings," Blueblood confessed. "I was hoping it was a family thing and that I’d get my own pretty soon." He clapped his hooves in excitement. "I mean, could you imagine? Me flying around? I’ve always wanted to know what it was like to be a bird."

Shining, who had been taking an inopportune sip of his tea at that moment, snorted in laughter, spraying tea everywhere. "Oh, that is…" He gasped between laughs. "Ha! That is rich!"

"Blueblood, that’s not exactly how it works," Cadance explained, her eyeballs doing a lap in their sockets. "And we are not birds, either!”

"Sorry, cousin, I didn't mean to offend you. Honestly I was just wondering how you all have them while I don’t" Blueblood replied in earnest.

"Have no fear, dear nephew. It's a legitimate question." Celestia nodded. "Unfortunately, becoming an alicorn is not the easiest thing to achieve."

"Mist explained some of it to me. Little Flurry Heart here has been the first naturally-born alicorn since you and Princess Luna. Princess Cadance mastered the magic of love, and Princess Twilight mastered the magic of friendship. Those two have been the only ponies able to ascend," he recited, his eyes holding a sad but understanding look in their gaze. "But hey, something so rare only makes obtaining it all the more satisfying, right? Work hard to obtain it and receive a pair of wings and a horn as proof of your dedication."

"Ah, so Mist told you my story?" Cadance asked.

"Oh yes, she did. Cousin, it’s really incredible, how you managed to master the magic of love and unite an entire nation!"

"Oh…well, thanks,” Cadance replied with an unsure smile. On one hoof, she appreciated the compliment. And yet on the other hoof, the compliment came from the most unexpected of sources. "So, you say you wish to become an alicorn?"

“Not really, but it is a nice thought. If I change my mind though, I would at least like to try and earn it. To prove myself worthy of ascension like you did."

Luna blinked, not believing what she was hearing. Where had this come from all of a sudden? Blueblood had never expressed interest in earning anything before, much less ascension! He always assumed — in his own odd way — that earning something meant you took it from somepony else and claimed all the credit.

With these thoughts in her mind, she slowly gathered up a cup of coffee in her hooves to steady her nerves. “It takes a lifetime of hard work and focused dedication to ascend to alicorn status, nephew. Are you sure you are up for such a task?” She took an unsteady sip of her drink.

"Yes, are you absolutely sure you want to walk that path, nephew?" Celestia inquired, a hint of worry creeping into her voice. "I must tell you, the task is an unforgiving and difficult one. Ascension is exceedingly rare. That's why there are only five alicorns in existence."

"I understand, Aunt Celestia. There is nothing to worry about. I swear I will be careful and not jump into anything head first. And besides, I haven’t decided anything yet." With a labored motion, Blueblood carefully took a fork in his hoof and gingerly picked at a cherry tomato on his plate. "The first thing I want to do is better understand the world around me, see who I really am, and maybe try to correct some of the mistakes I’ve made in the past." He gave a melancholic look to the other ponies around the table. "I was a real jerk back then, wasn’t I?"

Nopony knew what to say, so they just kept their eyes stuck to their plates. All except for Luna, who stared at Blueblood in complete shock, her cup of coffee shaking unsteadily in her magic.

"Let the past be the past, dear nephew,” Celestia said to him in a soothing voice before she pulled him closer to her with a wing and nuzzled his cheek. "It’s true that in the past you may have been a bit…difficult to love, but I can assure you, Luna and I will never stop loving you. If you really wish to make the effort to change and become a better pony, know that you have our complete support."

Blueblood returned the nuzzle out of instinct. "Thank you, auntie. I swear I will work as hard as I can to become the pony you deserve. I'll try to make you all proud."

"You already have, sweetie," Celestia whispered, a solitary tear falling from her eye.

"You can count on our support too, Blueblood," Shining Armor offered with a sharp grin. "It’ll be great having another stallion around to talk about…stuff and things. No offense to any of you ladies, but sometimes guys just need to talk about guy stuff."

“Ugh, stallions…" Cadance rolled her eyes and chuckled. “Regardless, you can count on my help too, Bluey. These may be confusing times, but I really would like to get to know this new cousin of mine."

"Thanks, Cadance," Blueblood replied, matching her smile with his own.

Everypony turned to Luna, who had grown quiet. Luna remained still as a statue, staring at Blueblood as if he had grown a second head.

"Dear sister? Isn't there something you would like to say?" Celestia asked, her voice betraying her thoughts of smug satisfaction..

Her answer was swift and decisive. The Princess of the Night’s eyes rolled backwards until all everypony could see was white, and she slumped to the side and fainted on the spot. One of the nearby maids yelped and deftly grabbed the cup of coffee out of the air with her magic before it could spill on the scarlet carpet.

"Luna!" Celestia yelled in alarm as everypony sprung to their hooves and rushed to her.
> A Princess Wish Come True (Edited By YB, CC And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With a groan, the Princess of the Night woke up for the second time that evening, feeling a sharp headache battering at her brain. "Agh…by the heavens above and Tartarus below, what happened?" Luna complained. She brought a hoof to her forehead to find a damp cloth. "Hmm?" She removed the cloth and stared at it for a couple seconds, confused as to its origins.

"Oh, thank the stars you’re awake," a voice called out before Celestia appeared in her field of vision, a relieved expression on her face. "For a moment there I thought I would have to go into the dream realm to find you."

"…Tia?" Luna closed her eyes and slowly sat up. "What happened? I had the strangest dream. Our nephew…" She opened her eyes to see said nephew playing with some toys on the balcony of her room with Flurry Heart. "…had…a drastic change of heart." She sighed and gave her head a shake. "You were right, sister. I needed to see him to believe it."

"Don't feel too bad, Lulu. You took the news better than I did." Celestia patted Luna on the shoulder.

Luna nodded slowly, before realization struck her. "Where is our niece and Shining Armor?"

"Night court was about to begin and you had an appointment with the mayor of Baltimare. They generously offered to cover for you while you were, er, indisposed."

Luna face-hooved in embarrassment. "Oh, pony feathers, the meeting. Please tell me it’s not too late. I can probably still make it."

"Luna, relax," Celestia chided. "It’s being taken care of. There will still be plenty left for you to do in night court. But first," Celestia looked over to her nephew, "there is another matter that needs to be addressed."

"You’re right, sister." Luna slid off the couch and stood up. "It's just like you said, our wish actually came true. Our nephew acts like he is a brand new pony."

"Back when he was pure." Celestia smiled "Just watching him play with Flurry reminds me how cute he was as a little colt."

"Focus, sister. Now is not the time or place for nostalgia.”

"Whatever do you mean, Lulu?"

"What I mean is this blessing we received could be a double-edged sword. It is true we got the nephew we want, but at what price? He is now a blank slate who doesn't know how to read, write, or use magic. With no idea on how Equestria works and who he can trust, he could easily become a puppet for any politician or nobles to use to get to us. Or worse, they could shape him to be even worse than the old Blueblood."

Celestia frowned. "I would never let that happen.”

"Of that I am sure, but restricting Blueblood to stay inside the castle was what made him like he was in the first place. Doing so again will only bring us back to square one!" Luna pointed an accusing hoof at her. "And do not tell me you won’t let it happen either, because I know you, Tia. You always had difficulty saying ‘no’."

"I disagree," Celestia replied, sighing. "But I understand what you mean. If we really are going to raise him like I should have from the start then we will need to find some sort of middle ground. Some way to ensure that he will not fall back into his old ways while allowing him to explore the world. A way to help him understand that there is more to life than what can be found inside this castle."

"Exactly! And that is why we will need to be extremely careful with what we do next," Luna declared, trotting over to her closet.

"Do you have something in mind, dear sister?" Celestia asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Yes, you could say that I have an idea." Throwing open her closet doors, Luna began to remove several items: a graceful black dress that shimmered in the moonlight, a rubber chicken, which was tossed across the room to land with a ‘squawk’, a well-worn buckler shield, and many more random items that joined the others on the floor, had convinced Celestia that her sister had a serious hoarding problem, until… “Ah ha!” …she found what she was searching for. From within the closet’s depths, Luna levitated an ornate wooden chest as long as her foreleg.

"I say that since we’ll be taking this opportunity to reteach magic to Blueblood," Luna began, opening the chest and reaching inside. "We will start with basic combat.” From the box's depths, a finely-crafted, ruby-encrusted falchion emerged, held fast in Luna’s hoof. “Then advance to complete enemy obliteration." Luna rose up and gave the blade a small flourish through the air. The blade swished through the air and immediately ignited into a corona of magical fire. The Princess of the Night squealed with delight as she expertly twirled the blade around with a casual, excited grace like a little filly with a sparkler. The improvised display of swordplay continued until Celestia took the sword in her magic and stowed the weapon back inside the chest from whence it came.

“While I do agree that he should relearn magic," Celestia started, floating the chest back to the closet. "I disagree with giving him a fire-enchanted sword. We are raising our nephew, Luna, not preparing him for a war.”

"Oh, come now, Tia. How can you expect him to defend himself against the world if he doesn't know how to properly incapacitate his foes?" Luna argued innocently.

"By using his brain, not his sword,” Celestia snarked back. "And for pony’s sake, Luna, he doesn't even know how to levitate objects! A filly still in magic kindergarten has better control than he would."

"And that’s another thing: how will we find the time to teach him the basics? We both have our schedules to keep, and they are completely full. If we reschedule events for time off the nobles will begin to ask difficult questions and we certainly can't send him to a public school. Not only would that be social suicide for him but the moment the nobles find out they will descend upon him like the Element of Laughter would a cake."

Celestia hummed, pondering the situation. Luna made several good points and it did seem to be a difficult nut to crack. Her mind began to rapidly form and discard various ideas, until her eyes went wide in realization. She had been ignoring the simplest solution! "I may just have an idea."

"Oh, shall I fetch the fire sword again?"

"What? No! Return that sword to the armory. That thing is a fire hazard and I will not have you setting another blaze in the castle. Perhaps it would be better if I show you. Please look after Blueblood until I return, this should only take me a few hours."

Luna waved her off. "Please, those drapes needed to be replaced anyway. What will you have me do about young Flurry Heart?"

"Cadance and Shining Armor should be finishing up with the mayor if they haven’t already,” Celestia replied. “When they return, take Blueblood with you to your night court. I promise I will try to be as quick as possible."

"Very well, but do not take too long, sister," said Luna. Celestia gave a sharp nod and teleported away, leaving Luna with the rest of the family.

Luna trotted across the room and exited onto the balcony, stepping over a couple stuffed toys. Blueblood noticed her approach and rose to greet her, much to Flurry’s displeasure. "Aunt Luna, are you feeling any better?"

"Indeed I am, nephew. I apologize for making you worry," she replied, a hint of guilt in her voice.

"You certainly gave us all a scare. Your face would’ve landed on your coffee cup had the maid not rescued it," Blueblood quipped. Feeling something brush up against his left leg, he looked to his side, seeing Flurry looking up at him with wide, pleading eyes. He smiled and picked her up in his hooves. "Was I really that bad before?"

“Perhaps worse than you may think, I’m afraid. Some moons before my return, a group of nobles had brought forth a petition to have you banished outright from Canterlot. Their displeasure was so great that they wished for a young colt to be cast out beyond the badlands.”

Blueblood's expression dropped like a brick upon hearing her response. "I don’t even remember…"

"Perhaps that is for the best, nephew," Luna said with a small smile. She brought his head up with one of her hooves. "Indeed, you used to be horrible, insufferable, egotistical, obnoxious, loathsome, stuck-up…"

Each word spoken caused Blueblood to wince as she just kept going, rattling off each word like a thesaurus dedicated to hate.

"… nasty, detestable, foul big-mouth—” Luna booped him on the snout with a chuckle. “—but that part of your life is over. Nopony is perfect, nephew. We have all made mistakes, including myself and my sister. For you to actually want to atone for them, I couldn't be more proud."

Blueblood glanced to the side with a blush, feeling conflicted by her words and actions, before looking back at her. "Auntie, I…"

They both heard a yawn and they looked down, seeing little Flurry's eyes growing heavy as she tried to remain awake. Luna chuckled and gave her grand-niece a nuzzle. "It looks like it's somepony’s bedtime," she teased before retreating back into her chambers. "The meeting with the mayor should have ended by now. Why don’t we go see your parents so they can tuck you in, dear Flurry?"

The filly yawned again in reply, getting comfy in Blueblood’s hooves and using her own wings as a makeshift blanket.

"Could she even possibly be cuter?" Blueblood wondered, incapable of looking away.

"If she could, I believe she would bring the most adorable doom upon us all and possibly conquer any remaining villains from sheer proximity," Luna joked. "Come. Let’s go see how Cadance and Shining are doing."

"Lead the way, Aunt Luna," Blueblood said as he followed the Princess of the Night out of her room.

"It’s magic, by the way," Luna said out of the blue, catching Blueblood off guard.

"Uh…adorable baby ponies?"

Luna shook her head. "Perhaps that too but I am referring to our flowing mane and tail. I recall that you never received an answer." She looked back at him with a smile. "There’s no special shampoo in our mane. It is a property of our magic leaving our body."

"Wait, your magic is leaking?"

Luna hummed. "Mmm, in a small way, I suppose. You see, usually ponies have good control over the small amount of magic coursing through their body. In general, it gathers where it is most needed — unicorns in their horns, pegasi in their wings, and earth ponies in their hooves. As an alicorn, my sister and I are an exception. Our bodies have the properties of all three tribes. We gather so much magic that it is simply impossible for our being to contain it all. The state of our mane and tail is a byproduct of that overflow. We employ an animation spell to release that excess build up of energy."

"Well, that explains the two of you but why not Cadance or Flurry Heart? And why does it, uh, tickle when I touch it?"

"You are full of questions tonight, dear nephew. My niece and her daughter have yet to fully mature into their alicorn-hood, much like Twilight Sparkle in Ponyville. As for being ticklish, much in the same way a unicorn can feel the weight and texture of an object when levitated, our mane can retain such sensation," Luna explained. "That’s why we are a bit ticklish there, my sister in particular."

"But then, wouldn't that mean when you walk it will tickle every time your tail touches the floor?" Blueblood asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Hooves can also be ticklish, nephew. That does not mean we laugh each time we take a step." Luna smirked. “It would be rather undignified, no?”

"Okay, point taken," the prince chuckled.

As luck would have it, just as the meeting room was coming into view, the double doors opened and Cadance and Shining Armor stepped out. The royal couple waved at the two of them as they approached.

"Greetings again, dear niece,” Luna called out to Cadance in a cheery tune. “I have once again returned to the land of the living."

"Aunt Luna," Cadance called back. "Are you feeling better?"

Luna nodded. "Much better now, although I fear my pride has taken quite the beating this evening. You have my thanks for filling in for me during my absence, however. I trust the mayor of Baltimare didn't give you too much trouble?"

"Oh, none at all. Just another mayor asking for the usual help," Cadance casually explained as she levitated Flurry away from Blueblood’s hooves. "And here is my sweet little angel. Thanks for looking after her, Bluey."

"Not a problem. She was a real angel."

"I have to say, I'm impressed," Shining chirped. "We didn't hear any commotion, yelling, running around, or even a single explosion while we were at the meeting. Normally that happens every day, so much so that there’s even a specialized guard unit back home trained specifically to handle one of her magical mishaps. How did you manage to keep her so calm?"

"Oh, you know, keep her occupied, constantly change what we were playing so she doesn't get bored, use some imagination in role play…wait…did you just say ‘explosion’?" Blueblood asked, unsure if he heard correctly.

Cadance gave the snoozing Flurry Heart a light nuzzle, to which the little alicorn responded with a low hum in her sleep and a smile. "This little troublemaker has nearly brought the Crystal Empire to its knees twice now," Cadance replied with a yawn.

“Three, dear,” Shining corrected. “You’re forgetting about her magical surge shorting out the Empire’s shield.”

"I hardly think a little snow storm counts as certain doom,” Cadance scoffed.

“You weren’t the one fighting it, or attempting to…” Luna muttered.

Shining brought a hoof to his head and rubbed his horn. “I had a headache for weeks after that.”

Cadance leaned over to him and gave him a kiss on the forehead, “You’ll always be my big, strong, stallion, headaches or no.” She turned back to Luna and added, “On that note, I think it’s about time Shining and I call it a night. Will we see you in the morning, auntie?"

"You can count on that, dear Cadance," Luna replied. "Have a pleasant sleep and sweet dreams, and thank you again for your assistance tonight."

Shining gave a quick, respectful bow. "Any time, Luna. It’s always our pleasure to help. Please, take care." With a nod of agreement from Cadance, the royal couple and their baby left for their chambers, where they fully intended on having a good night’s sleep.

Once they were out of sight, Luna turned to her nephew. "Tell me, Blueblood, would you like to accompany me to my night court?"

Blueblood made a small, unsure frown. "Would that be okay? I don't wish to bother you during your duties."

"Don’t worry, nephew, there are only a few short hours of night court remaining. Many of our subjects are currently asleep so I don’t expect many petitioners. I would very much appreciate the company."

"Well, if that’s the case, I wouldn't mind. Just don't expect me to be of much help if it comes to taxes or laws, or, you know, reading or writing."

Luna gave a merry chuckle at that as they both walked beyond the threshold of the throne room. "I shall keep that in mind."





Sometime later, in the throne room…

Celestia walked into the throne room, her hooves giving sharp clicks on the stone tile floor. Upon entering, the sight that greeted her eyes could do nothing else but warm her heart. Luna and her nephew were not on the throne as she had assumed they would be, but were rather leaning against a nearby open window, looking up into the night sky. They looked so peaceful.

"Now, follow your hoof to the right and complete the image," Luna was saying.

"I…I think I see it, auntie! Wow, you were right, it does look like a pony with claws and the body of a scorpion as his lower half."

"It is one of my favorites. I designed it to help lost ships find their way home. Do you see the three stars that make up its tail? The red star at the tip is pointing north, the blue one on his claw is pointing east, the yellow one on his hoof points west, and the biggest one on his muzzle leads south. If a sailor doesn't know in which direction they need to go, they only need to find the Scorpony and they will soon reorient themselves." Celestia could hear the pride in Luna’s voice.

"Am I interrupting something?" the Princess of the Sun asked with a knowing smile as she approached

"Oh, hello dear sister. Not at all. There were no further petitioners tonight, so I took it upon myself to showcase some of my finest works to Blueblood."

"I'm glad you two are having a good time,” Celestia remarked, her smile growing ever so slightly wider. "Sister, may I have a moment of your time?"

"Of course. Blueblood, would you excuse me for a minute?"

"Absolutely," the prince replied, and he returned to looking up at the night sky in silent wonder.

Celestia led Luna closer to the throne and out of earshot, and Luna whispered, "So, did you find what you needed?"

Celestia nodded and levitated a golden medallion necklace out from under her left wind. It was embossed with the blackened image of a pony with a crooked, wickedly sharp horn. "The enchanted changeling necklace?" Luna whisper-shouted in surprise. "Tia, you can't be serious!"

"Now Lulu, please hear me out. This necklace could potentially be the answer to our problem with Blueblood’s education. If Blueblood can be taught how to use this, he could shapeshift into a little colt and learn the fundamentals of writing and magic in any school in Canterlot without the nobles suspecting anything is amiss," Celestia explained.

"So you propose to give a pony with memory loss a dangerous artifact,” Luna deadpanned. “How is this any different than my own wanting to give him a dangerous artifact? Would it not be more logical to just requisition some private tutors, or some well-experienced guards?” Luna frowned. “Honestly Tia, I am beginning to think you just do not like my fire sword."

"I said no combat training!" Celestia glared. "Blueblood can’t stay at the castle or else we’ll be facing the bubble problem again if we just let him have his studies in here."

"You are positively no fun, sister. Honestly, it’s a mystery how Twilight Sparkle ever learned how to defend her…self…" Luna's eyes widened in realization. "I am thrice an idiot, and now I am thrice the genius to compensate!" She looked back at Celestia, a mischievous gleam in her eye. "We should send him to your student!"

"Excuse me?" Celestia asked. "Luna, I believe Twilight is busy with her own projects. We needn't bother her with our own problems.”

"Tia, we are talking about the mare who built a school dedicated to further studying friendship," Luna argued. "Besides, is she not the Princess of Friendship? I can personally attest to your former student knowing about giving second chances. Have you forgotten that I was once Nightmare Moon?" Luna glanced back over at Blueblood, who was still leaning blissfully unaware on the windowsill, watching the night sky. "As difficult as this may be, perhaps for now, it may be for the best if our nephew spends some time in Ponyville instead of here where he may once again be corrupted."

Celestia nodded slowly and thought about the options presented to them, until a light bulb went off in her mind. "Very well, we’ll send him to Ponyville, but first let's give him two weeks here."

"Whatever for?"

"I know we can find a way to make some space on our schedules for him, Luna, I just know it. Besides, Blueblood can't just up and disappear, he is too well-known around here for him to just vanish. It would look suspicious. We will tell the truth, at least most of it, that he has important business to attend to outside Canterlot."

"That makes sense, I suppose," Luna nodded. "That would give me enough time to teach him battle techniques."

“Luna…"

Luna lowered her head and gave Celestia her best impression of a puppy. “But…fire sword…”

Celestia wasn’t born yesterday, nor was it the first time she had faced a weapon so terrible as this before. It was nowhere near good enough compared to the great Starswirl the Bearded when he wanted Celestia to join him on his mad adventures through the mirror portal. The Princess of the Sun didn’t say a word, instead raised a stern eyebrow as she glared back at her little sister.

Luna rolled her eyes and huffed. "Oh, pooh…fine! I will refrain from the self-defense classes. But if he shows interest in combat, all bets are off." She looked back at the necklace. "And we would need to be careful with this, too. You know that those changes are not 'illusions', correct?"

"I'm well aware of that, Lulu. I have faith in Blueblood. I believe he will handle this artifact with all the care and respect it deserves."

"You may have your faith, sister, but I will still dispatch a pair of thestral guards to watch over him," Luna declared.

Celestia smirked at that. ”Very well, then.” The two royal sisters turned to make their way back to Blueblood. "Now who's being overprotective?" Celestia teased.

"Oh, hush up, Tia. If you were in my horseshoes, you would have given him an entire platoon of your best solar guards."

Celestia laughed at that. “Well, maybe half a platoon…"

They stopped their approach when they heard snoring. To their amusement, they found Blueblood leaning against the window, sound asleep. Already a small puddle of drool had collected on the windowsill.

"That poor, unfortunate soul,” Luna remarked, moving closer to the prince. “He must have been really tired for quite some time. I believe he didn’t want me to be alone in an empty night court." Luna nuzzled his cheek. "For somepony so spoiled rotten, you have a very sweet heart, dear nephew."

A motherly smile grew upon Celestia’s lips at the sight of her sister nuzzling the once tyrannical prince. With a quiet sigh, she looked out through the windows to the brilliant twinkle of stars in the sky with a contented smile, sending out a silent prayer to whatever gods above that may be listening.

Thank you…
> To Ponyville (AP, W-SS, CC, GT4 and YB)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight Sparkle was currently doing her best impression of a fish that had forgotten how to breathe. Her mouth opened and closed sporadically as she stared at the sight before her, her brain continuing to unsuccessfully comprehend what she was seeing. Spike, her number one assistant, stood right next to her, and while he seemed to be just as befuddled as Twilight, he also seemed to have kept more of his wits, and was currently trying to break Twilight out of her trance.

Namely, by waving one claw in front of her and repeatedly closing her jaw with the other.

"Do you believe us now, Twilight?" Celestia asked with a hopeful smile, willfully “oblivious” to her former student’s mental plight.

"I can assure you, Twilight, we did every possible magical and medical test known to our Canterlot doctors. He is in no way pretending, under a curse or spell, nor has any sort of injury," Luna jumped in. "They have eliminated every rationally possible cause, and yet his condition remains a mystery."

"Wha…who…I can’t…words!" The Golden Oaks library of Twilight’s inner mind had flipped its ‘open’ sign to ‘closed’ and turned its lights off for the night.

In front of the assembled princesses, Blueblood was being nuzzled by Twilight Sparkle’s pet owl, Owlowiscious, who wasn't known for being overly-affectionate to strangers. In fact, the only other ponies who Owlowiscious had shown that kind of affection to were her closest friends, and even that had taken weeks!

Twilight had never seen such horseapples before.

Yet here she was once again, observing something she once thought improbable, if not impossible. During her time studying in Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns she had never really seen much of the prince other than at day court or yelling at the gardeners. She was never really one to pay much attention to other ponies. And as for Blueblood he probably didn't even know of her existence until she had earned her wings which suited Twilight just fine.

But something that she remembered all too well was how universally hated the prince was by all the animals in the royal gardens, mostly due to him acting like a jerk towards them all the time. In fact, she was beyond certain that he was the “anti-Fluttershy” when it came to kindness, whether it be towards animals or ponies.

But this…this was different. Ever since his arrival with the princesses, not only had he been friendly and kind to her, but he had also even offered to help Spike with his list of chores on multiple occasions simply because he wanted to help. On its own, such an offer was already weird, and only continued to confound the inner machinations of the Princess of Friendship and her draconic assistant. But witnessing and hearing him be so friendly to what she once overheard Blueblood call ‘filthy vermin’ was what caused her mind to finally pack its bags and leave town.

“I think you guys broke her…” Spike murmured, letting his claws drop to his sides. “Give me a sec, I think I have an operations manual stashed here somewhere for times like these.” He opened a nearby closet and began rummaging through its contents.

Celestia’s gaze turned worried. "Twilight, are you still with us?"

"I…uh…" Twilight blinked several times before shaking her head. "Y-yeah I'm with you, sorry.”

Spike returned, dusting off a scroll in his claws. “Right then, How To Reboot: step one, we have to…oh, you brought her back.” He tossed the scroll back into the closet and slammed the door shut with a nervous chuckle. “Forget you saw that.”

Twilight, meanwhile, had regained some of her senses and was finally beginning to process the information her eyes were feeding her. “This is…it’s all just too much, too fast," she exclaimed, pressing her hooves into the sides of her head.

Luna whispered into her sister’s ear, “I told you she’d react like this.”

Celestia giggled. "Don’t worry about it, Twilight. Luna and I were in your horseshoes yesterday."

Twilight nodded and looked back at Blueblood. "So…he really doesn't remember anything?"

Both princesses nodded solemnly. "Not much, I'm afraid. Math and speech seem to be the most of what he has retained," Celestia answered.

"And that is why we need your help, Twilight Sparkle," Luna added.

"W-what? Why me?" Twilight asked, pointing a hoof at herself. Spike raised an eye ridge.

"You see, although it’s a mystery as to how this event transpired, it has also presented us with a golden opportunity that we wish to take advantage of," Luna explained.

Celestia nodded in agreement. "It's a chance for us to become a true family again. Nothing would make us happier than to have this new Blueblood with us. Unfortunately, our duties prevent us from spending the time we need to teach him all that he needs. If the other nobles were to discover him while in this condition, Faust help us all."

"That’s why we have come to ask for your aid, Twilight Sparkle," Luna finished. "Our wish is for you to provide sanctuary to our nephew for a fortnight while he acquires an education in Ponyville and initiates magic lessons with you."

"You want me to…teach him how to use magic?" Twilight looked between them and Blueblood.

"I don’t expect him to be teleporting any time soon, he just needs to re-learn the fundamentals," Celestia answered. “It’ll only be for a few short weeks until we can better organize our schedules."

"What do you say, Twilight? Will you be his guiding light in the darkness?" Luna asked hopefully.

Twilight put a hoof to her chin and hummed in response. Other than her schedule, which she could reorganize, as much of a headache it usually caused her, nothing was preventing her from helping the prince. Sure, he was a jerk, but if what the other princesses said was true, then as Princess of Friendship, her duty was clear. She gave Celestia a very determined nod and said, "You can count on me, Princess."

Celestia breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Twilight. You have no idea how much this means to us.”

"Uhhh, I don't mean to be the Element Bearer of Bad News, but…" Spike interjected, raising a talon. "Wouldn't it be weird and, like, super creepy if a full-grown stallion just showed up to attend Miss Cheerilee’s class?"

"We’ve already come up with a solution to that, Spike," Celestia informed him, turning towards the prince. "Blueblood, will you come over here for a moment?"

"Coming, auntie!" Blueblood called, giving Owlowiscious a gentle pat goodbye before approaching the group. “Yes?”

"Blueblood, would you please give a demonstration of the amulet I gave you earlier this morning?" Celestia asked.

Blueblood immediately adopted a more nervous expression, sending Twilight a look. "Would…that be okay, auntie? You told me not to use it when somepony is watching."

"It’s okay, nephew, you can trust Twilight," Luna replied.

"Well… okay," Blueblood said, looking a bit unsure. Nevertheless, he brought his hoof up to the medallion around his neck and closed his eyes.

"Okay Blueblood, just like we practiced. Clear your mind and picture the photo of the colt that I showed you earlier," said Celestia.

Blueblood nodded and concentrated as hard as he could, scrunching up his face slightly in the process, which got a snicker from Spike for some reason. Soon, the necklace shined with a bright golden aura that encompassed his entire body, and in a flash of green fire, he changed into a little foal version of himself. He seemed to be even smaller than the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and his Cutie Mark was no longer on his flanks.

The spell concluded and he peered up at the group. "Looks like it worked," he said in a much higher-pitched voice, completing the disguise and sending Spike into hysterics. Twilight rolled her eyes and slapped the back of his head with one of her wings.

"You did a fantastic job, nephew! You look just like you used to when you were a colt,” Celestia happily remarked, nuzzling him. She then gazed back at Twilight and Spike. "With this magic amulet, Blueblood can assume the form of a colt and join the class without raising any suspicion."

"As funny as this whole thing is, what exactly is it?” Spike asked, walking around Blueblood’s new body to inspect it. “It reminds me of—”

"Changelings?” Luna smirked. “That is because you, young dragon, have just witnessed the power of a changeling’s alteration necklace," Luna informed him, pointing at the amulet. "What he is wearing is one of very few, rare changeling artifacts on loan to the Royal Canterlot Archives by King Thorax. They are used in the training of changeling nymphs when they have become stuck in an undesired form. Whoever wears one should be able to change their appearance at will without much problem.”

"Is it some sort of illusion?" Twilight asked, lightly poking Blueblood in the chest, making him giggle.

Celestia shook her head. "No, it’s a complete physical change. Right now, Blueblood is as he appears: a colt.”

"But only as long as I want to be," Blueblood added, before tapping the necklace twice and reverting to his normal self. "See? That’s all it takes and I'm back to being myself."

"That’s incredible!" Twilight squealed in delight.

“And still a bit creepy,” Spike pointed out, although he was ignored.

"Most importantly, it will help us keep his secret," said Luna.

Twilight looked back at her. "What secret?"

"As we told you, if the news of his condition spread, nobles would try to prey on him and exploit his position for their own personal gain." Luna trotted over to Blueblood, covering him with a protective wing. "This is why we need to keep his identity a secret until he is once again ready to face the Canterlot nobility."

"Are the nobles really that dangerous, auntie?" Blueblood asks with worry.

“Absolutely, nephew. Every one of them would try to force their own perverted version of politics upon you, and you would lack the social skills to defend yourself,” Luna replied, a harsh frown donning her face.

Blueblood, realizing the dire importance of the situation, quickly changed back into his colt form once again.

"That is why for the remainder of his stay, unless he is on the castle grounds, he must remain in the form of a colt,” Luna continued. “The story that you will tell others is that you're taking care of a distant cousin of yours called ‘New Blood’. If somepony asks, you are allowed to tell them that he has recently suffered through a traumatic event, which will explain his amnesia, and that he will temporarily be staying with you at the castle until another guardian can be found."

"The best lies have a grain of truth,” Celestia said, giving Twilight a cryptic smile, “In fact, Twilight, Blueblood is actually part of your family.”

"Whaaaat?!" both Twilight and Blueblood cried out in surprise. Spike’s jaw hit the floor.

Celestia tapped her chin with her hoof. "Well, it is a distant association, but technically, since Cadance married your brother, that makes Blueblood your cousin-in-law, and by association, indirectly part of your family."

"Wait, Shining Armor is your brother?" Blueblood asked in shock, looking back up at Twilight.

"Wow, you really did forget everything," Spike chuckled. "You and I are gonna have a lot to talk about."

Luna ruffled her wings. "As you can see, Twilight, this is the story you must tell, even to the other Elements."

"Wait, why can't I tell my friends everything?" Twilight asked, tilting her head to the side.

"It must remain a secret as a matter of royal security, Twilight Sparkle. Please understand, this is not out of malice but more out of concern. It would be best for Blueblood if the rest of Ponyville were kept unaware, especially from one Element in particular that may have a…slight personal grudge against our nephew," Luna answered.

Twilight’s eyes widened in realization. It's true! It’s not only Rarity that we’ll need to worry about, either. Applejack met Blueblood too, and from what she told me, they didn't part on the best of terms. Faust only knows what those two would do if they found out the truth, or even if they would be willing to give him a chance.

She glanced down at the small colt before sighing. "I understand, princess. Spike and I will keep this a secret, even from our friends," she said, holding up a hoof. "Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake on my eye."

A haunting, shrill cry of “FOR-EV-ER!” echoed throughout the castle, although its origin could not be discerned. It still sent a shiver up everypony’s spines, however.

Shaking off the sudden chill, Celestia gave Twilight a motherly smile and brought her into a hug, "I knew we could count on you, Twilight. Thank you for your assistance in this matter.”

"You can count on me, princess," Twilight replied, returning the hug in full.

"We should be going, sister. We have delayed our duties for far too long," Luna informed Celestia before approaching her nephew. "Please take care, dear nephew. Remember that you can find me in your dreams if you need me."

Unsure of what to make of that sentence, Blueblood nodded slowly in reply. "I’ll keep that in mind.”

Luna gave him a quick nuzzle before making her way to the door. Celestia trotted over to Blueblood and lifted him into a large hug, spinning him around slightly. "Oh Blueblood, you have no idea how much I’ve wished for this day to come. I know you’re in good hooves now, and absolutely nothing bad is going to happen—”

“You’ve doomed us all!” Spike cried.

“—But if anything were to arise,” she continued with a smirk, “You only need to have Spike send me a letter and I will be here in an instant.” She gave him a motherly peck on his forehead.

"Come on, sister, before we stay here all day," Luna called, pulling Celestia away with her magic after the fifth minute of the hug. On their way out, the royal sisters waved goodbye, with Blueblood returning the gesture.

Soon, Luna and Celestia boarded a flying chariot, and as soon as they sat down they departed, leaving Twilight and Spike alone with Blueblood in the form of a small colt. The three of them watched as the royal sisters departed through the skies toward Canterlot, the chariot becoming a small speck in the sky.

Blueblood gave a wistful sigh and faced Twilight. "So…are we really cousins?"

"Well, I have no reason to doubt the princess, but it does sound pretty crazy, right?" Twilight replied, trying to make small talk. "Usually I figure out this kind of thing pretty easily, but this time, I didn't even have the slightest clue."

"Me neither," Blueblood muttered with a chuckle. "Then again, I have no clue about a lot of things at the moment." At that, they all shared a laugh.

Blueblood looked over at the saddle bag that he and Celestia had packed earlier that morning, now waiting patiently for him to unpack it. "Maybe I should go find my room and unpack my things?"

"Oh, yeah, that sounds like a good idea. Spike and I can give you a guided tour of the castle while we’re at it," Twilight offered.

"Quick word of advice, knock before opening any closed doors," Spike added. "Especially if you don't know who or what might be on the other side. Somepony might be on the other side and you might hit them."

"Does that…happen often?" Blueblood asked.

"Ohh, more times than you'd think," Spike grumbled, crossing his arms over his chest.

"Okay, I’ll keep that in mind," the prince acknowledged. The three were about to start moving when a knock on the front door caught their attention.

"Huh…are you expecting somepony, Twilight?" Spike asked.

Twilight shook her head, chuckling, "Maybe it's Princess Celestia wanting one last hug?" she joked. She used her magic to open the door, only to be met with an alabaster unicorn mare with a purple curly mane and tail, wearing what Twilight could barely describe as a dress with frilly…things on it, waiting on the other side. A package levitated in the air next to her.

"Oh! H-hello, Rarity!" Twilight exclaimed in a panicked voice before recovering with a forced smile. Outwardly, she was the picture of perfect calm, she thought, but inwardly she was screaming a long string of arcane profanities she didn’t even know existed as the last pony she wanted to see appeared at the front door.

Rarity, for her part, merely covered her muzzle with one hoof as she tittered happily at Twilight’s surprised reaction. "I see that my newest creation has left you utterly speechless, darling!" she said, stepping inside the castle.

“What brings you h-here, uh…Rarity?” Twilight managed to squeak.

"I came to give you back that dress that had that ghastly tear, darling," Rarity replied with an elegant flourish of her mane as she moved to put the packaged dress on a nearby table. As she placed it down, she spied the saddlebags beside it, which greatly puzzled her. "Are you planning to go on a trip, Twilight?" she asked, facing Twilight with a raised eyebrow and levitating the saddlebags in her magic.

Twilight started to sweat, and she let out a nervous laugh. She was soooo not prepared for this. Not yet. "Well, um, you see…"

"Those bags are mine," Blueblood answered for her as he slowly approached, keeping his head low as he stood next to Twilight. "They’re for my stay with my cousin, Twilight," he finished, allowing Twilight to breathe a sigh of relief.

Thank you, Blueblood…that still feels unnatural.

"Cousin…Twilight?" Rarity echoed, more confused than before.

Now feeling a little more relaxed, Twilight exhaled and approached her. “Rarity, meet my cousin, New Blood," she said, pointing a hoof at the colt. “New Blood, this is one of my close friends, Rarity.”

"Hiya!" Blueblood said, offering Rarity a small wave.

"I offered to let him stay here for a couple of weeks," Twilight clarified for Rarity, bringing her closer to whisper in her ear. "He recently went through a rather traumatic experience and suffered memory loss as a result. His guardians sent him over so he could hopefully calm down and relax."

"Oh goodness!" Rarity whisper-shouted. “That’s horrible!”

"He doesn't even remember anything about magic, which I’ll be teaching him while he stays with us at the castle. His memory loss is so advanced that his guardians even had to remind him that they were his family," Twilight explained.

Rarity looked about ready to faint, and tears welled up in her eyes. "Oh, that poor little colt!"

"Yeah, he can be very shy, so please be gentle, okay?"

Rarity put a hoof to her chest and gave Twilight a solemn look. "Oh, I understand completely, Twilight. You have no need to worry about me. You have my word as a lady that I will be on my best behavior.”

"Uh…miss?" Blueblood called up to her once again.

"Yes, dear?" Rarity replied, looking down at him.

"May I have my saddlebags back?" he asked, pointing at it.

Rarity looked at the saddlebags, still hovering in the air from her magic aura. "Oh my, I'm so sorry! Of course, you can have it back," she said, blushing. She floated the saddlebags back to the floor, and Blueblood hugged them to his chest when they were within reach, selling his act perfectly.

"Twilight, may I go to my room now?" he asked.

"Of course you can, New Blood. Spike, can you please take my dress to my room?" asked Twilight.

Spike clicked his heels together and saluted, before picking up the package and running towards the stairway to the castle’s second level, blowing Rarity a quick kiss as he ran past her. Rarity giggled and rolled her eyes.

Twilight and Blueblood were about to leave, when Rarity surprised them both by trotting up to Blueblood and knelt in front of him. "Would the little dear care for a ride to his quarters?"

Blueblood’s eyes went wide. "W-what?" he stammered.

"It’s okay, darling. Consider it my way to apologize for taking your saddlebag without your permission. There’s no need to worry, I don't mind. Just don't grip too tightly, alright?"

"Uh…" Blueblood, unsure of what to do, looked up at Twilight for help, only to receive a helpless shrug in response.

"It's okay, dear," Rarity continued, smiling warmly. "I don't bite."

Twilight cringed internally. Oh, this is wrong on SOOO many levels…

"Well…alright, b-but just let me know if I'm making you uncomfortable, okay?" Blueblood mumbled, his face as red as a tomato.

"You have my word, darling," Rarity replied, giving him a reassuring smile.

For better or worse, Blueblood decided to climb onto her back, and then tried to get a little more comfortable in the awkward position. Once she felt that he was secure, Rarity stood up again and looked over to Twilight. "Shall we?" she asked in a sing-song voice.

Twilight, still mentally face-hooving her brain out the back of her head, could only nod mutely in response. "Y-Yeah, let’s go," she finally managed, and moved to guide them through the halls of the castle. Just go with the flow, just go with the flow, just go with the flow…

"I'm not too big for you, am I?" Blueblood asked as they walked.

Please no innuendo… Twilight pleaded in her mind. Not here, not now…

Rarity shook her head. "Not at all, dear. You’re nearly as light as my little sister," she replied as they went deeper into the castle. "You know, New Blood, I can't help but notice that your face reminds me of somepony I’ve met before…"

Twilight’s fear returned in full force, as she screamed a nigh-infinite repeating string of curses in her head for the second time that day. It probably wouldn’t be the last time, either.

"But by Celestia's mane, I can't put my hoof on who that pony was…how very curious."

Blueblood chuckled. "Well, if my memories return, you might remind me of somepony too," he joked. "Tell me, Miss Rarity, how do you get your coat and mane to look so beautiful? Are you a supermodel?"

"Oh, you little flatterer, you!" Rarity blushed and giggled. "Twilight dear, where have you been hiding such a gentlecolt? Your cousin is just a delight to be around!"

"Eheheheheh…yeah, he’s quite the charmer, isn't he?" Twilight answered, still recovering from nearly having a second heart attack.

She was starting to wonder about her decision to take in Blueblood, and was also suddenly wondering if Ponyville General had therapy sessions available for possible future use. Or research, depending on how things went. She’d have to ask Nurse Redheart later.

One thing at a time.
> Fear and Guilt (AP, YB, CC, W-SS And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After finishing the tour around the castle, the group finally arrived at one of the many empty guest rooms, where they deposited all of Blueblood’s belongings beside the bed. He gingerly hopped off Rarity’s back, being careful not to mess up her dress.

"Thanks for the ride, miss Rarity."

"Oh, it was my pleasure, dear! And please, just call me Rarity," she beamed.

Blueblood chuckled at the polite reply. "Okay, mis—I mean, Rarity. I’ll try my best to remember it." He returned her smile before heading towards the bed.

"Is there anything else you need, New Blood?" Twilight asked.

"Well, if it's not too much trouble, could I please have a little time to myself?” Blueblood asked politely after a moment’s thought. “I would like a moment to unpack my things.”

"Of course, dear. Just come and find us when you’re done," Rarity answered. "Once you’re ready, we’ll all go for some delicious ice cream!"

Blueblood’s eyes widened. "Really? That sounds great, Rarity!"

"Uh, we will?" Twilight asked, somewhat unsure, until Rarity gave her a light shove in her ribs. "I mean, yeah sure! I’d love to show you around Ponyville before you start school so you can become familiar with the town. Plus, I can show you the fastest, most efficient route to the schoolhouse while we’re at it."

Rarity rolled her eyes and giggled. “Of course you’d know that little tidbit of information.”

Twilight shook her head at her friend’s remark and gave Blueblood a questioning look, adding, "That is, of course, if you’re okay with that?"

"Well…I would like to see some of Ponyville, maybe even get a souvenir,” he mused, before hanging his head sheepishly. “But I haven’t been given an allowance.”

"Oh, pish-posh! Say no more, dear," Rarity interjected. "Today will be my treat, and I will not take no for an answer!"

"But…"

"Ah!" Rarity interrupts him, lifting a hoof.

"I don't know if…"

"Ah-ah!" She waved her hoof from side to side.

"It wouldn’t be right t—"

“Ah-ah-ah!" She repeated her wave with a smirk, to Blueblood’s annoyance.

"…Okay," he finally relented.

"There, now with that settled, we should go, Twilight darling. Let's give your cousin some time to unpack his things,” Rarity declared. “We’ll be in the map room when you’re ready to rejoin us, New Blood."

Twilight looked at Blueblood and gave him a sheepish, “what can I do?” shrug, and followed her friend out of the room. The door shut behind them with a sharp click.

Once outside the room, Twilight took Rarity aside and whispered, "You know, you don't need to do all that for him, right?"

"And not help that unfortunate colt? Not a chance, Twilight! I will gladly aid you in his recovery," Rarity replied, closing her eyes and smiling. "In fact, you should ask the rest of our friends for help. New Blood’s case sounds like something very serious, and you may need all the help you can get. I'm sure that the other girls would gladly lend a hoof or wing, and maybe even have an idea or two for ways to cheer him up."

Twilight heaved an exasperated sigh, and then donned a sincere smile. "You really can't help being so generous, can you Rarity?"

"Not even if I wanted to, darling," Rarity punctuated with a wink.

"Fine, we’ll tell the others, but we aren’t going all out. As I said before, he’s only staying here for a few weeks. And he’s still a young colt, and you know how they can get about their personal space. If we come on too strong, we may just end up pushing him away, or we could end up making his condition worse. We should tread lightly around him."

"Clear as a crystal pony, darling!”

"And that includes making clothes for him," Twilight added, pointing a hoof into Rarity’s chest.

Rarity stared at her, dumbstruck and appalled by the very thought. "W-what?! But Twilight, can't you just imagine how adorable he would look in a dashing formal suit?" she pleaded.

"Maybe, but only if he asks."

Rarity sighed, feeling dejected. "Very well, message received. No suits unless he asks for them.” She then tapped her chin in thought. “What about a cute little bow tie?”

"No."

“Perhaps a top hat? There was a truly dapper visiting professor with a Bittish accent the other day who would certainly agree with me! You’d like him too, he said he loved solving—”

“No!”

“…Not even a ruffled shirt with a pocket watch?”

"Rarity!"





Meanwhile, in Blueblood’s guest room

Once the door had closed, the small prince let out a breath he didn't know he was holding and started to pace in circles.

Okay, calm down, calm down. Things may be getting confusing, but you’re still in control. You just…need to think things through. Try to remember, try to understand what’s happening.

The prince proceeded to do some breathing exercises to relax his heart. Once he had accomplished his goal, he took a moment to stop and sit on the bed so he could concentrate properly.

First things first: what do I understand about this place so far? Well…I'm definitely in another world or universe, one where ponies can talk. Colors are a lot more saturated, too, although that could be because of the body I’m in. Apparently, I ended up in the skin of a class A jerk, one that even his own family had difficulties in loving, and magic is not smoke and mirrors here…

He let out a long, tired sigh and looked himself over in the mirror atop his nightstand, before looking up at the new appendage he now possessed.

Not to mention that apparently I, as a unicorn, should have magic, and it’s apparently a big deal if a unicorn can't use it.

He looked down at the floor and frowned at this thought.

How am I supposed to do something if I didn't even think it was physically possible in the first place? Wait. No, NO! Focus!

He gave a few shakes of his head and stood up, bringing one of his hooves to his chin, deep in thought.

That’s not important right now. What I need right now is to figure out what I was doing before I woke up here…

Blueblood closed his eyes and tried concentrating as hard as he possibly could, trying to clear the fog in his head. What began as small and blurry forms in the dark began to transform into crystal clear images of his past.



"Look dad! Isn't this hero incredible?"

In his head, Blueblood managed to see a faceless image of a small human boy, with a mount made of light, holding a comic and talking to a larger figure whose face he couldn't see.

Is that…me…? I remember now…I really loved superheroes and video games. Gah! I'm such a geek.

He smiled at the memory until he remembered his father's reaction.

"Well, isn't that adorable? But son, this is just make-believe, and worse, a waste of time. And money," the figure replied before snatching the comic away. "Here, I have a better way for you to spend your time."

He retrieved a baseball glove from a nearby bench and handed it to Blueblood, smiling condescendingly. "Starting tomorrow, you’ll be playing America's game, sport. Comic books will rot your brain!"

“W-what? But dad, that’s not what I want to do!"

His father laughed affably and softly patted his head. "You’re too young to know what you want. Father always knows best, after all."

The images changed and the once small human was now taller, showing off a piece of paper to his father.

"Dad, I did it! I passed my exams, with top honors!"

"I'm so proud of you son, and look, I have a surprise for you too!" His father handed him another piece of paper. "I’ve already enrolled you into the perfect college!"

"What? B-but dad, I already have a college in mind! Couldn't you at the very least talk to me about this before you—?"

"Oh, you’re still being that adorable little son of mine, still thinking about your silly games and heroes,” His father shook his head and smiled. “But now? It's time for you to grow up and have a proper job. You should be happy, with your brains you’ll graduate in no time, and can finally work in my company."

"But dad, I don't want to—"

"And unless you have your own money, don’t expect me to pay for your education unless you go to the school I picked. Do I make myself clear?"

His son tried to keep his emotions in check, angrily clenching and unclenching his fists as he faked a neutral expression. "Yes sir…"

He felt a tear on his cheek, overwhelmed by a toxic mix of sadness and anger swirling around in his skull at how events unfolded.

Why, dad…? Why didn't you ever listen to me? I did everything you asked of me…so why did you never once consider what I wanted?

The next memory was in a large, glamorous living room, in front of a fireplace with his father sitting on a sofa, while he paced in front of him.

"I can't take it anymore!"

"What do you mean, son?"

The son stopped, looking straight into his father's eyes. "The lessons, the teachers, my classmates. Everything! Everything in that place is just tedious, repetitive, and boring!"

"And why exactly does that matter? Besides, you’re once again top of your class. You’re clearly my son, and I’m proud to say that!" the father replied, lifting a cup in the air as a toast to his son’s future success.

"I don't care! What’s the point in what I'm doing if it’s not what I really want?"

"The point? The point is you are not ending up homeless and forgotten!" The father stood up, glaring at his son. "Do you really think the world is all sunshine and rainbows? I will tell you this just one last time: the world is cold. It’s tough, so you have to be tougher. Man up, and stop your whining, or so help me, I will show you what real misery is. Now get out!" he yelled, pointing to the door.

The son quickly succumbed to his father's words and promptly left the room.

"I’d better see some improvements on that attitude of yours soon, young man. In fact, I’d better see something expensive for Father's Day," the father called as he left, resuming his drinking and reading.

He truly didn’t have any mercy on me. God…why did he hate me so much?! Blueblood wondered in disbelief.

Soon he saw himself in a meeting room staring at an elderly lady on her knees crying her eyes out in front of him, before being abruptly grabbed and removed by security. His father moved in behind him and slowly patted him on the back, satisfaction evident in his eyes and smile, which was now twisted and demented, a far cry from its previous farcical warmth.

"Nicely done, son, just like I taught you. Ahh, your first kill as the shark in the waters of business is always the most memorable."

"That…that lady…I just…destroyed her entire life! For profit…"

"And what a profit it was!” his father gleefully pointed out. “Do you know how many zeros you just added to this company’s pocket book?"

"But…s-she genuinely loved her company! What is she going to do now?"

"Pfft, who cares? We’ve just made millions, and now it's time to celebrate. I think it’s finally time for you to play with the big boys.'' The father tried to take him away, but Blueblood remained in place, still in complete shock at what he had just done.

"I think I broke her…"

"I won’t say it again, boy. Move it,” the father repeated, this time pulling his arm, forcing him to walk away with him.

That’s right…that damned company dad loved so much. He really loved money. I…I think he loved it more than mom. Is that why she left us before I could ever meet her…?

The image changed one final time. However, this one was clearer than the others, showing both the son and his dad on the rooftop of a large building.

"I'm done."

"…What did you just say?" his father hissed, anger present in his voice.

"You heard me. I can't take this anymore! Working like this is like…it’s like selling my damn soul away! Everyone is out to get me, and the only thing that anyone seems to care about is money and power!"

"That’s exactly how the world is, son. Do you seriously think that there are people that would give a damn about you if it wasn't for your wallet? Just know that the moment you step out of this building, I will NEVER give you a single cent."

"Fine by me, 'father’!” the son roared at him. "You’ll see! I’ll make a name for myself, following MY rules, and I’ll show you that this ‘grim and depressing world’, is nothing like you brainwashed me to believe. There’s good in people!"

The enraged father only chuckled and grinned cruelly at him. "You should know that when you come crawling back after it all fails, I will work you to the very bone. You will not rest a single day, will not ever see the sun, and you will NOT be shown any mercy, not until you finally give up on your moronic notions about life."

The son actually waved slightly, not out of fear, but of pity for the father he once respected. "…You know dad, a part of me always wanted to believe that in some form, some way, there was a part of you that actually loved and cared for me. However, now I know it was just a lie I told myself at night to make me feel a semblance of normalcy around you. Goodbye, father.”

The prince turned to leave, but as soon as he did, a loud booming explosion made both of them lose their balance and fall from the rooftop, which had just collapsed into a burning hellscape of concrete and death. Recovering quickly, they ran to the stairs, both of them panicked. Once they were in the room below, the prince coughed the dust away and stared in horror at what he saw.

The entire building was an inferno. There were people running everywhere, and screams filled the air. The thick black smoke was suffocating, and seeing through it was nigh impossible. He tried to make a run back to the stairs, but a large concrete pillar collapsed on top of him, shattering his legs and destroying his lower spine, making him unable to move.

He screamed in pain and fear, as fire licked at his heels and clothes. Why wasn’t anyone helping him?!

Blueblood at that moment remembered the reason why he was seeing all of this. There was an accident. Someone started a fire in the server rooms, and the fire spread to the boilers. Before he or anyone else knew it, they were already trapped. Nobody could hear his cries for help over all the commotion that was going on at the moment. Nobody except for his father who, to his luck, was still in one piece. Even though he remained faceless, Blueblood could still see this staggering height and slightly muscular build. Even though he was in his late forties, he was in remarkably good shape.

He's here! He’s going to help me. He really does care for me! Blueblood was about to smile for joy, but the next words that came out of his father’s mouth stabbed him in the heart with the delicacy of a jackhammer.

His father knelt down next to his ear and whispered in a voice as smooth as silk and sadistic as the Devil himself. "Not so high and mighty now, eh son?"

"Father w-what are you doing? This place is falling apart! Hurry up and HELP ME!” The prince extended his hand out to him, begging for help, but all he got was a glare and his father dusting the shoulders of his normally immaculate suit.

"Didn't you say you were going to make a name for yourself? Well, here’s your one chance. Go help yourself, and be quick about it. That fire’s getting hot," he replied nonchalantly, before sprinting away towards the exit stairwell.

"Dad? Dad?! DAD!!!! PLEASE!!" Both Bluebloods screamed for their father, but he never once looked back. They continued to stare in despair until the walls collapsed upon the younger self and buried him alive in an infernal grave of concrete and sorrow.

Tears started to stream from Blueblood’s eyes, and the image started to slowly fade away. Frustration and rage coursed through his head, and his vision went red.

"Not like this…not like this…It was supposed to be a new start for me. It was supposed to be the beginning of my life! To end it now, it just isn't fair! WHY?!"

The rest of the building slowly crumpled on top of him even as he wept, completely ending the memory. Blueblood gasped for air, awakening him in a cold sweat, with his heart lodged in his throat.

I died…I really died! But that means…

Blueblood held his head with both hooves in shock.

I'm not just stealing this poor pony’s body, I'm possessing it! I'm a ghost that somehow ended up here. I never truly had a voice back in my world, and now I don't even have an identity here! If they found out what I am they could exorcize me! I…I’d be gone forever!

Blueblood rushed out of his room and toward the bathroom that, thank God, wasn't too far away. He hung his head over the porcelain seat, his stomach churning in protest from stress and swirling emotions. His trembling hooves clutched the bowl like it was his only lifeline.

None of this was supposed to happen. He wasn’t even supposed to be here, but for whatever reason he was, and it could all be over in a flash of magic.

Blueblood’s stomach lurched again, this time not a threat but a declaration of intent, and violently introduced his breakfast to the toilet. Panting and sweating over the bowl, he vomited again but nothing came out but sour bile. His stomach was now as empty as he felt.

He flushed the toilet and watched as his shame and guilt swirled around the bowl before disappearing down the drain. The sight could have been poetic if it wasn’t so disgusting. The previous Blueblood had flushed his own life down the drain, and now his replacement was left floating in an open cesspool. He had to find the strength to paddle out, wading through the murk of the owners’ previous life, clean himself off, and hope nobody decided to cast the first stone.

He let out a couple wet, hacking coughs to clear his throat, spat into the water, then flushed the toilet again.

No matter what happens, they can't find out the truth. They would blame me…they all would. If they didn’t destroy me, I would be locked away forever! I wouldn't even blame them. I would probably do the same in their shoes…

Blueblood pushed himself to his hooves and plodded towards the sink, staring blankly at his reflection in the mirror. His hair was matted and eyes were bloodshot, and tear streaks matted his muzzle. Now he looked as terrible on the outside as he felt on the inside, both physically and emotionally.

I'm so sorry, Blueblood. I don’t even know if this is something that can be fixed. I just have to do my best and hope I can make things right. Gotta keep moving forward and hope things work out in my favor.

"Hey, dude?"

Blueblood yelped in panic, having heard the voice of Twilight’s little dragon friend. The steady clicks and scrapes of his clawed feet on the crystal floor revealed how close he was. Blueblood hoofed open the faucet and splashed his face a couple times just before Spike waddled through the open doorway.

"Bro, are you okay?"

"Y-yeah, I'm okay, Spike. I just wanted to make myself presentable before we headed out," Blueblood told him, not looking at Spike but instead staring at his sopping reflection in the mirror once more.

"Are you sure? I thought I heard you talking to somepony on my way here," Spike asked, the concern on his face as clear as day.

"Oh…that. I may have accidentally burnt my hoof with the hot water when I turned on the faucet. I was just muttering at myself for the silly mistake, is all."

"Oh yeah, that happened to Twilight too, after we moved in. I thought she was going to lose her temper and blow up the sink or something," Spike remarked. The little dragon approached to inspect Blueblood’s hooves. "Now that she’s a super magical alicorn, I can’t tell with her sometimes. Anyway, are you going to be okay?”

"Yeah, don't worry about it. I was more surprised than anything," Blueblood replied, pulling his hooves away.

"Well, okay then. Just so you know, Twilight color-coded all the faucets in the castle so it wouldn't happen to her again. The red one is for hot and the blue one is for cold," Spike politely informed him, pointing a claw at the faucets on the sink. "And the same applies for the showers. She wanted to use letters so the taps could be sorted alphabetically, but not all species use the same alphabet, and the castle gets dignitaries from all over the place."

Blueblood gave an affirmative nod, shaking loose tiny water beads to splatter on the floor. "I’ll be sure to keep that in mind."

“Okay! Well, if you’re not hurt, then I guess my job here is done," Spike declared, leaving the bathroom and waving a claw as he went. "Try not to take too long, dude. Rarity’s still waiting to take us for ice cream!"

"I’ll be there in a minute," Blueblood replied with fake cheerfulness in his voice, before again looking at himself in the mirror.

"Blueblood, if you’re still in there…if you can hear me…" the colt placed his hoof on the cold mirror, touching his reflection. "I'm going to make things right. I swear it.”

Blueblood quickly dried off his face with a towel before making his way out of the bathroom. "Wait for me, Spike! I'm coming!"





In the map room

After a short walk, both the dragon and prince reached the map room, where Twilight and Rarity were waiting.

"And there’s the colt of the hour!" Rarity announced with a graceful flip of her hair. "Did you finish unpacking your things?"

"Y-yeah, everything’s been sorted and put away," Blueblood replied with a well-practiced smile, which caught Twilight’s attention but managed to fool Rarity.

"Splendid! Then let's go to Sugarcube corner," Rarity exclaimed as she and Spike left the throne room.

As Blueblood and Twilight joined them, Blueblood looked up at Twilight and said, "She can be a bit intense.”

"Please don't be too hard on her," Twilight replied. "She has a soft spot when it comes to little fillies and colts. She has a younger sister, after all. Your case might be the saddest story she’s heard yet."

Blueblood frowned, and hummed to himself.

"Also, great acting back there! Before she left, Spike quickly explained to me about finding you pretending to have a panic attack in the bathroom. You truly sold the image of a young foal suffering from a traumatic experience!” Twilight praised him for his “performance”.

"Heh…yeah, acting…" Blueblood echoed, not daring to look up at her.

Twilight wasn’t so easily fooled, and she sent him a worried look. "Unless…it wasn’t an act. You do know you can always talk to me if something's on your mind, right?"

Blueblood didn’t reply, but looked back at her.

"I know things may be hard for you right now, and how you’re most likely still scared and confused about everything that’s happening, so I won’t press the issue,” Twilight clarified.

Blueblood let out a sigh of relief.

"But you should know that if you ever need to talk, I’ll always be here to listen," she offered with a kind smile as they made their way through the castle’s antechamber.

Blueblood mulled over what she had just said before leaning into Twilight to give her a much-needed hug, which stopped Twilight in her tracks.

"Twilight…I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I…I don't want to be a burden, I’m just…s-so scared," he sobbed, unable to hold his emotions in check and openly crying into her fur.

Twilight’s heart melted, and she covered him with a wing, bringing him in for a closer hug. "It's going to be okay, Blueblood,” she whispered comfortingly. “Spike, the girls, Celestia, Luna, and I are all here for you. We’re going to help you get through this. Together."

The two of them kept the hug going for a few moments longer, and then Blueblood let her go. She paid little mind to the tear stains on her coat but used her magic to tidy up the prince’s face. Blueblood sniffed, and smiled up at her. “You know, Aunt Celestia told me that you were her student for a time. I think she taught you more than just magic.”

Twilight smiled, and her cheeks reddened a little. “When the mother figure of most of Equestria is the one teaching you for most of your life, you…tend to pick up a few things,” she said humbly, finishing her spell. "Now, are you ready to go get some ice cream?"

Blueblood sniffled to clear his nose, then quickly nodded.

"Then come on! Let’s make sure Spike doesn’t eat too much and get a stomach ache. Again." Twilight exclaimed, giving him a bump with her flank to get him moving again. They both continued through the castle’s large main door and out onto the path leading to Ponyville, and for the first time since his supposed death, Blueblood felt just a little bit of happiness in his heart again.

Good people really did exist.
> Meet The Elements (Edited By AP, FS, W-SS, CC, GT4 And YB)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sweet aroma of fresh pastries filled the bakery, and a bouncy pink mare with a darker, bubbly pink mane and tail completed another order. A pleased stallion trotted past with a bag of goodies, inhaling the heavenly scents that emerged from it with a contented, somewhat euphoric grin. Pinkie waved to the next pony and everypony in the line moved forward one space like clockwork, each bearing excited grins on their muzzles.

"Ooooo-kay! Your usual basket of muffins and chocolate milk, coming right up, Derpy!" the pink earth pony happily exclaimed, already a blurred motion of hyperactivity. In a flurry of movement, the order was completed and the gray, golden-eyed pegasus exited the line. In a timely fashion, the next patron took their turn at ordering.

“Good afternoon, Pinkie!” came a voice from nearby.

The pleasantly pink pony at the counter squealed in delight as her friends approached. "Twilight, Rarity, Spike, it’s soooooo nice to see you!" She quickly turned to an older, light blue mare behind her. “Mrs. Cake, please take over, I’ll be back in a jiffy!”

“Sure thing, Pinkie,” Mrs. Cake replied, smiling as she stepped up to the counter and greeted the next patron.

"Hello, darling!" Rarity greeted her with a large smile. "It's nice to see you too!"

"How have you been, Pinkie?" Twilight added.

"I’m doing abso-posi-lutely-tively amazing! Are you here for your usual four cups of coffee with cream and sugar and a half-dozen glazed doughnuts with chocolate chip sprinkles?"

Twilight let out a nervous chuckle as Rarity stared at her in awe and jealousy upon taking a quick peek at her trim figure. "I’m not here for study fuel, Pinkie. The four of us came for some ice cream," she replied.

"Four?" Pinkie looked around the store in confusion until Twilight stepped aside, revealing a nervous white foal with a blond mane behind her.

"Uuuh, hi miss."

Pinkie gasped and waved from behind the counter. "Oh my, hi there! You’re new!"

Twilight perked up an ear, already knowing where this was going. "Pinkie, meet my distant cousin New Blood. New Blood, this is one of my best friends, Pinkie Pie.”

"H-Hello, miss P-Pie," Blueblood said, greeting her with a nervous wave.

Pinkie giggled and trotted out from behind the counter. "Hey ya, New B! I’m Pinkie Pie, but everypony calls me Pinkie.” The pink mare wiggled a fore-hoof. “Normally, my wibbly leg would’ve let me know if there's a new pony in town so I could throw them a party, but I feel like I’ve already met you and I can't put my hoof on where." She hummed once, and then her eyes lit up as she reached behind the counter, pulling out a chocolate treat. "Apology muffin? It's on the house!" she offered with big, hopeful eyes.

Blueblood looked over to Twilight, who gave him a simple nod. He took the offered treat in his hoof and gave it a careful test bite. His eyes widened to the size of dinner plates as the sweet flavor exploded in his mouth like a Roman candle, and his jaw dropped in shock. A mere one second later, which felt like an eternity for his taste buds, he ferociously began consuming the rest of the treat with vigor, the smile never leaving his face. "Waw, miff Phie! Thif muffin tafteff amasin!!" he exclaimed, his mouth full of muffin.

Pinkie giggled at his reaction. "I’m so glad you like it! And you can just call me Pinkie!"

"Will do, mi—I mean, Pinkie," Blueblood said in-between bites, then promptly stuffed his mouth with the remainder of the muffin, much to the amusement of the bakery’s patrons who knew the feeling of “The First Taste” all too well.

While Blueblood was momentarily distracted, Twilight took Pinkie in her magic and pulled her aside. She took the opportunity to give her friend the same quick explanation that she had given Rarity.

When she was finished, Pinkie let out an oddly muted gasp. "Really?!"

Twilight’s ears drooped, "Yes, which is why we’re here."

"Awww, that poor little colt…you’ve got it Twilight. I'll be on my bestest behavior! Not even a single teensy-eency-weency shenanigan," Pinkie responded with a salute, then hopped over the counter to directly land in the ice cream preparation station. "Soooo, you’re all here for some ice cream, right?"

Blueblood vigorously nodded his head the moment he finished his muffin. "Yes, please!" His voice crackled with childlike glee. If the ice cream in this place was just as good as the muffin, then by God, he never wanted to leave.

"Okie-doki-loki! And what flavor can I get ‘cha?" she asked, taking a serving scoop into her hoof.

"I’ll have a single scoop of double-chocolate truffle in a waffle cone, please," Twilight answered.

"Two scoops of low-fat vanilla in a bowl for me, darling," Rarity added politely. Then she had a thought. “Oh, and just the barest hint of butterscotch, please.”

"A scoop of a sapphire explosion in a cone for me," Spike replied coolly. “With emerald sprinkles.”

Unsure of what to order, Blueblood pointed a small hoof at the pail closest to him. "That one, please."

Pinkie followed his hoof and tilted her head in confusion when she saw which flavor he was pointing at. "Hmmm…are you suuuure you want pecan butter tart? You look more like a blueberry cheesecake kind of pony to me.”

“Uh…I do?” Blueblood asked.

Pinkie nodded rapidly. “Uh-huh! Those pecans will get stuck in your teeth and you’ll be picking at them with your tongue all day.”

Blueblood winced. “Ooo, that doesn’t sound pleasant.”

Twilight shivered. She had the same problem with…eugh…cheese.

“You should probably get blueberry cheesecake, dear. Pinkie is rarely ever wrong about these things,” Rarity bumped Twilight’s flank with her own, “Isn't that right, Twilight darling?”

“O-oh, right. Yes, absolutely!” she stammered.

“Er, okay. I guess I’ll try the cheesecake one?”

“Comin’ right up!” Pinkie cried, before madly scooping out the various flavors of ice cream and presenting them to the group in about five seconds flat. Blueblood swore he never even saw her get the cones before he was suddenly presented with one. "Here ya go!" she said.

Rarity paid the crazy mare several bits and grabbed Blueblood’s cone with her magic, bringing it down to his level. He took it with a gleeful smile and started to slowly lick it, and once again his taste buds fell in love.

Pinkie, however, was staring at him intently. She never once lost her kind smile, but her eyes seemed to bore into him. Something felt a little off to her. "Hmm, you know New B, I know I said it before, but I really do feel like we’ve already met. White coat, blonde mane, colt, Twilight’s cousin…hmm…" She thought hard to herself as she looked between him, the cone, and Twilight over and over, repeating the same action again and again.

“Pinkie?” Blueblood asked, pausing his licks (and momentarily making his taste buds weep in sorrow).

"Hmm…have you ever been to the Sparkleworks?” Pinkie asked suddenly.

Rarity let out a horrified gasp. “Pinkie! I hardly think that such a little colt has ever been to the Stalliongrad glitter mine."

Twilight was getting nervous, thinking Pinkie was about to untangle her web of lies and discover the truth. If anypony could do it, Pinkie was that pony. She had only finished preparing the third of a long list of backup plans when Blueblood sniffed the air. "Hey, do you guys smell something burning?" he asked.

Pinkie gasped in panic and jumped into the air, somehow hovering in place as she held her gasp. "MyTripleUpsideDownBlackForestAngelCakeSupremeGottaGoSeeYouLaterByeeeeee!" she screamed while dashing into the kitchen in a mad rush.

Blueblood quietly chuckled at her  "I like her, she’s really funny."

"Oh-ho-ho, dude, you don't even know the half of it," Spike chuckled along with Blueblood.

"What do you say we find a table and enjoy our treats? When we’re done, we can continue with our tour," Rarity proposed. "There is still a lot more of Ponyville for you to see."

Blueblood nodded, and the four of them sat down at a window-seat table, each of them digging into their ice cream with barely-suppressed zeal.





The Farmer

After a long walk exploring all over Ponyville with Spike acting as the group’s self proclaimed tour guide, the gang finally arrived at the massive farm located on the outskirts of town.

"…And here we have Sweet Apple Acres, Equestria’s largest apple farm, owned by the Apple family, which were the very first to settle this region and establish what later became Ponyville," Spike informed them, as the group entered the large farm. Blueblood looked around him with wonder in his eyes.

"Wow, I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many apple trees before!" he remarked, greatly impressed.

Rarity tittered at his reaction. "Indeed! Applejack has done a marvelous job continuing her family’s tradition of growing the best apples Equestria has ever seen."

"You could even say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!" a mare whose voice carried a Southern twang called out to the group. The approaching earth pony's golden coat rippled in the sunlight over taut cords of muscles. Her mane, the color of a wheat field in autumn, spilled out from beneath a lovingly worn stetson, to be tamed by a red ribbon into a ponytail. The pony's tail was similarly styled.

"Hiya, Applejack," Spike called to her with a wave of his claw.

Applejack tilted her hat to the dragon in a friendly manner. “Howdy, Spike. You here to join Applebloom ‘n her friends at the clubhouse?” she asked before noticing the small white colt trotting with the group.

“Nah, not today. We’re on a walking tour!” Spike replied.

"That so? Looks like you picked up a little straggler there, Twi. Howdy there, little feller! Did Spike bring ya here to join the Cutie Mark Crusaders?"

Blueblood gave her a polite shake of his head. "Nope, sorry. I’m visiting my cousin for a while. My name’s New Blood. It’s very nice to meet you, miss."

"Well, the pleasure’s all mine, partner," Applejack said before looking at Rarity. "Ah didn’t know you had family comin’ over Rares. You shoulda told me! Ah woulda had Granny Smith make y’all some of her famous apple pie!"

"Actually dear, his arrival was a surprise for me, too," Rarity corrected as Twilight approached them.

"Rarity is not my cousin, Miss Applejack, Twilight is," said Blueblood.

Applejack let out a guffaw and looked at Twilight with a warm smile. "Twi, Ah'm starting ta think you have more family than Ah do, and that’s sayin’ somethin’!"

Twilight nodded and introduced them to each other, "Applejack, meet my distant cousin, New Blood. New Blood, meet Applejack. She’s another one of my closest friends.”

“If’n that’s too much of a mouthful, ya can just call me AJ. All my friends do.”

"Hi again, AJ," said Blueblood. "Hey, miss AJ can I ask you a question?"

"Sure thing, sugarcube."

"Did you really plant all of those trees?" he asked innocently, pointing to the orchard behind her.

Applejack chuckled. "Well, maybe a few in the northern field, but nah, nowhere near all of ‘em.” She flipped her head, gesturing to the stand of trees. ”This here’s the family plot. When we have a family hoedown, the new youngins of the family get to plant their own tree. Been an Apple family tradition for generations," she said to him with pride.

"That’s so cool!" he beamed. “You must have a really big family to plant so many trees.”

“We’ve got some of the deepest roots ‘round these parts, and even over all of Equestria," she affirmed, scuffing a hoof through his mane.

"So, what brings y'all here?" Applejack asked, looking at the rest of the group.

"Hey Spike, why don't you take New Blood to see the chickens?" Twilight suggested.

"Wait, you also have chickens?" Blueblood asked.

"It's not a farm just ‘cause of the apples, sugarcube. We’ve got all sorts of things. Chickens, pigs, and even goats, but don’t talk to the goats. Those varmints are darn liars. They’ll talk their fool heads off about things they think they heard," she answered with a mischievous grin. "Now go on, partner. We’ll be right behind ya."

Spike gave Twilight an understanding nod and nudged Blueblood in his flank. "This way, dude. You think the trees here are impressive, these chickens will make you lose your mind!" He pointed to a wooden structure in the distance and they both headed towards it.

Once they were far enough away, Applejack turned to the others, a more serious look on her face. "Alright, so, you got rid of ‘em. Now can you tell me what’s really goin’ on?"

“What makes you think something is ‘going on’?” Twilight asked. Goodness, she felt jumpy today.

“We’ve all played poker together, remember?” Applejack deadpanned. “Y’all have one of the worst poker faces Ah've ever seen. Ah’ve seen better on a dragon with greed problems.”

“Er, right…” Twilight replied sheepishly, and just like the others, she explained what was going on with her cousin.

By the end of the story, Applejack looked in the direction of Spike and Blueblood. "Land sakes, that’s quite the story. He really don’t remember a thing?"

Twilight shook her head, "He didn't even know how to walk.”

"He’s been so brave considering what he’s been going through and he’s trying his hardest at hiding it! But the truth is that he’s still a scared and confused little colt, Applejack. That is why we didn't want to tell you about it with him present. It's not fair to him that he is constantly reminded of what he’s lost," Rarity added.

"Ah understand," Applejack replied with a solemn nod. "But what in tarnation could just…wipe out a pony’s memories like that? Must be somethin’ mighty nasty.”

"I don't know Applejack,” Twilight answered with a grimace. “Even Princess Celestia doesn't know the cause. He wouldn't even remember it himself, which may be for the best."

"Oh, he remembers, Twilight," Applejack said, looking back at her. "You’re right, the lil’ critter’s a fighter for tryin’ to hide it…but Ah’ve seen that look on mah own face since we lost our parents. That’s the same look Applebloom would give me after she’d had a nightmare and she’s too proud of herself to admit she had one." She looked over at Blueblood as he pulled his hoof away from a chicken before he could get pecked. "Somethin’s really got him spooked, and Ah’m sure he remembers it."

Twilight’s eyes widened in realization, and she recalled Blueblood’s panic attack back at the castle. Maybe it wasn’t an act at all?

"Oh my goodness! Do you think he’s starting to remember?" Rarity exclaimed, voicing Twilight’s thoughts and putting a hoof up to her mouth.

Applejack just shrugged, "Ah don't know…maybe it was some other thing, but Ah know Ah’m sure of one thing: keepin’ a brave face and pretendin’ nothing bad’s happenin’ is never a good thing. Ah say we let the poor colt sort himself out a bit and then afterwards we coach him into telling us what’s happenin’. After all, it ain’t good forcin’ these kinds of things outta ponies, but it sure as hay ain’t good to keep lyin’ to yourself either."

Twilight nodded in approval, albeit in slight guilt as well. “You’re right, AJ. We need to give him some space and ensure that he’s in a safe state of mind."

"That was the point of his parents dropping him here, right Twilight? Now, what do ya say we go see how the little feller is doin’? Ah’d imagine by now he’s bored of the chickens," Applejack chuckled.

"I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if he was, dear," Rarity commented as they all trotted off to go and see Spike and Blueblood. When they finally reached the coop, the trio of mares saw something none of them were expecting.

"What in tarnation…?" Applejack muttered.

Spike was sitting off to the side of the chicken coop, idly watching over his charge and eating from a bag of popcorn, which was the least odd thing about the situation, occasionally tossing a handful of the kernels at Blueblood. Not more than a few paces away the unseen colt could be heard giggling up a storm, as he was completely buried under a feathery mass of clucking chickens. “They’re so warm and fluffy!” he shrieked in delight. “Spike, get in here, you gotta try this!”

“Later dude, this is too good to pass up watching for a bit first,” Spike answered, stuffing another handful of popcorn into his mouth.

"Well now, this was unexpected," said Rarity.

"Twi, are ya sure that he’s your cousin and not Fluttershy’s?" Applejack asked while looking at her friend and pointing over at Blueblood.





The Caretaker

After getting some apples, courtesy of Applejack, and saying their goodbyes, the group decided to continue their tour of the Ponyville area by visiting a cottage not too far away from the farm, but a little ways out of town still.

Beyond Sweet Apple Acres, a little over half a kilometer down the road and over a sturdy cobblestone bridge, and within stone throwing distance of the Everfree Forest, was a cottage built into a grassy hill. Small trees and hills dotted the land around it and multiple flocks of birds of various shapes, sizes, and colors could be seen gathering on the roof.

As the group approached, Twilight gave her number one assistant a suggestion: “Spike, why don't you take New Blood around back and show him Fluttershy’s newest guests?”

Spike snapped to attention and saluted. “Sure thing, Twi. Come on, dude, you’re gonna want to see this!”

Within seconds, Spike and Blueblood had dashed off behind the cottage to play which gave Twilight the time she needed to knock on Fluttershy’s door and quickly explain what was going on. By this point, retelling the fabricated story had become almost second nature to her and flowed easily from her lips, a fact which actually concerned her greatly. When she was done, as expected, the shy pegasus whimpered in worry.

"Oh dear," she whispered. "That poor little colt…" Her eyes had teared up at some point during the story, and she was now on the verge of crying. Always prepared, Rarity hoofed her friend one of her personal, embroidered handkerchiefs, which Fluttershy took to dab her eyes.

"It’s…a lot to take in, I know,” Twilight conceded. “Which is why he’ll be staying with us at the castle for a while. Since he lost most of his memories, the doctor thought it would be better to have him under constant supervision, preferably with family, to watch over him while he recovers. He wasn’t physically injured, but they needed to keep the bed available for ponies who could be, so they sent him to live with his closest living relative, which would be me. I brought him to you thinking that maybe your animal friends could help him feel a little more at home."

"Oh, but of course, Twilight. I’ll gladly help," Fluttershy said with a soft smile.

"He seems to be very good with animals," Twilight mentioned. "Even Owlowiscious was very friendly toward him, which I thought was very unlike him."

Fluttershy gave back Rarity’s handkerchief with a nod. "Thank you, Rarity. So, um, you see, it's pretty common for animals to be more receptive towards ponies that shy away from them," she informed her friends. “It’s a sympathetic response that all creatures have but more, um, self-aware creatures subconsciously tend to ignore.”

"But darling, how could you possibly know that?" Rarity asked while using her magic to levitate the now soiled handkerchief back into her saddlebag.

"Well, you see…" Fluttershy rubbed her hooves together. “You know how animals can sense fear?"

They both nodded in confirmation.

"Well, the truth is, fear is not the only thing they can perceive. They can also tell when their caretaker is in trouble, sad, angry, or even if they’re not feeling well," she explained. "So when a pony gets seriously injured, critters, by their very nature, can somehow feel that too. Some of my little animal friends have told me of their experiences when they lost their closest friends and family. According to them, being near some critter that has just recently passed on, they feel a comforting warmth, like being reunited with a loved one that they thought was gone a long time ago. And that’s how New Blood feels to them.”

"If I’m understanding you correctly, you mean to tell us that your darling little friends believe that New Blood has had a near death experience?” Rarity interjected, rubbing her hoof on her forehead. “How could you possibly know all that so soon? We haven’t even introduced him to you yet."

Fluttershy looked up to her roof. “A little birdy told me,” she simply replied.

Twilight frowned. "This is more serious than I thought."

Fluttershy nodded. "I don't know if we can help him, but I believe my animal friends would like to try to help him overcome his recent trauma. You can count on my help too, Twilight."

"Thank you, Fluttershy, I really do appreciate it…" Twilight moved in and gave her shy pegasus friend a hug.

Rarity cleared her throat. “Ahem, yes, we’re all here for him. But I believe it has been far too long. If New Blood is anything like my little Sweetie Belle, we shouldn't leave him unattended for too much longer.”

“Of course you’re right, Rarity.” Twilight rolled her eyes. “We should go check on him and Spike, and make sure they’re not stuck in a tree, or covered in sap, or building a catapult.”

“That was one time, darling…” Rarity mumbled as she led the group around to the back of Fluttershy’s cottage. “And besides, I would hardly think those two could possibly get into as much trouble as the Cutie Mark…” she froze, and her jaw dropped. “…Crusaders.”

"Oh my…" Fluttershy stopped mid stride and gasped, confused at what she was seeing.

Spike was sitting off to the side of the puppy pen, idly watching over his charge and eating from a box of surprisingly tasty dog biscuits, occasionally tossing a broken treat at Blueblood. Not more than a few paces away, the unseen colt could be heard giggling up a storm, as he was completely buried under a fuzzy mass of excited, barking puppies.

“I don’t even know how this keeps happening,” Blueblood shrieked in delight. “But I love it! Come on, Spike, you’ve gotta get in on this!”

Spike licked off the crumbs from his claws, brushed off his rather full tummy, and grinned. "Oh yeah, he’s going to fit in juuuust fine."
> First Lessons (AP, FS, W-SS, CC, LS, YB And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the moon rose over the horizon, Twilight and her group arrived at her castle, laughing and sharing past experiences as they neared the front door to the castle.

"Oh, this certainly has been one glorious day!" Rarity exclaimed. "Did you enjoy the tour, New Blood?"

He nodded his head vigorously. "I sure did, Rarity! Thank you again for showing me around."

"It was my pleasure, darling." She gave him a friendly pat on the head. "If you ever need some nice formal wear, don't be afraid to visit my boutique, alright? Do you think you can remember that for me?"

"Of course, I’ll never forget." He smiled proudly, which made Rarity giggle.

"Oh, and as for you—" She turned to Twilight. "—Don’t worry about his first day at school. I’ll make sure to tell Sweetie Belle to look after him. He’ll be better than fine."

"Thank you, Rarity," Twilight said, relieved. She lit up her horn and opened the castle door with her magic, leading the group inside the foyer.

"Until next time everypony. Ta-ta!" Rarity flipped her hair, turned around, and began her trot back to the boutique, leaving them alone.

"Wow. I think I understand now why Aunt Celly wanted me to come here, this place is awesome!" Blueblood remarked, bouncing in excitement.

Twilight, however, looked at him in concern. "Blueblood?"

"Yeah, Twilight?"

"Can you do me a small favor?"

Blueblood titled his head to the side. "Of course, what do you need?"

"Please tap your necklace twice."

"Right away, Twilight," he replied, and did as instructed, returning to his older self. Once the transformation finished, he stumbled back slightly, overcome with sudden dizziness. "Oh wow, my head…why is the room spinning?" Blueblood held his head with a hoof.

"Overuse of magic can do that to you," Spike commented as he helped steady Blueblood with a claw. "Remember what Princess Luna said: you become what you imagine. So, the longer you stay transformed, the longer you’ll start to feel like you’re the thing you’ve become."

"I feel weird," Blueblood murmured, shaking his head. Then he looked at his hoof. "Before, it was like my body was pumped full of energy. Now it’s like my head is all…fuzzy. Kind of like when you stay up too late and get overtired. Everything’s all wibbly-wobbly.” He slowly shook his hoof up and down. “Look Twily, it’s a rubber pencil!"

"No wonder Princess Luna was wary of him using the necklace," Twilight pondered as the three began walking down a long hallway. "It seems that being a mature unicorn shrunk down doesn’t save you from draining too much mana from you. You shouldn't risk yourself using it more than absolutely necessary," she advised. "Lucky for you, I know exactly what we should do!"

"What’d ya have in mind, Twiggy?" Blueblood asked with a bit of a slur.

Twilight rolled her eyes at the silly nickname but didn’t reply. Instead, she guided them both towards the main library, located at the rear of the castle, and started searching on a bookshelf in the far left corner of the room. She grabbed several books in her magic, read their titles, then replaced them, repeating the cycle a few more times.

Blueblood yawned and smacked his lips. "Uuhhh, Twiles?"

"Dude, you don’t sound so good. You should probably sit down before you fall over. It could be a while, Twilight’s in—” Spike made air quotes with his claws, “—’Study Mode’. Right now, unless you’re a book, nothing else exists to her. I looked it up once — something about object permanence and tunnel vision. I’m not really good with all that psychology stuff. We just gotta give her a moment."

"That’s a lotta words I don’t understand, little bro.” Blueblood looked around, “Sooo, what’s this place exactly?"

"This is the castle library! Anything you’re interested in, we have a book for it," Spike explained, puffing out his chest in pride. “I’ve organized this place so many times that I can locate pretty much anything without looking.”

"Wait, really? Even, say…magic spells?"

"Oh, naturally. It’s Twilight’s library after all," he replied with an affirmative nod.

“And ghost stories?”

“Some of the scariest. A few have even been found to be true!”

“Cool! I wonder if we know somebody who’s a ghost?”

“Probably not, most ghosts are really hostile to other ponies. Nasty business.”

At that moment Twilight appeared from behind one of the stacks. She heaved a burly looking volume in front of them and gingerly set it open on the floor. "We’ll be using this. And Spike, try not to startle him, he’s really impressionable right now," she said with a glare towards her assistant (the unapologetic whistle Spike was doing wasn’t helping). She pointed her hoof at a specific page, containing a detailed illustration of a unicorn standing in front of a rectangular, floor-length mirror with wavy lines for sides. However, instead of reflecting the pony’s image, the mirror showed a griffon.

"Uh, Twilight? Can't read, remember?" Blueblood reminded her.

"Oh…right, sorry," Twilight muttered sheepishly. "The spell I’ll be using will be similar to a funhouse mirror spell. However, it's a lot more complex, so not many unicorns know it, meaning it’s a safe bet to use. Once I cast it over the castle it’ll mask your appearance to anypony that visits as long as you stay inside the castle. To everypony you’ll appear as your colt self," she explained. "That way, we can keep your visit a secret without risking your health."

Blueblood looked uncertain. "That just seems overly complicated. Why can’t I just be me? We used to know each other before I lost my memory, right?"

She shook her head rapidly. "Because I’ve already established your story as a young colt staying as a guest at the castle. Having your older self prancing about and the younger missing will look really suspicious. That, and a lot of folks around here aren’t exactly fans of your…former self. Don't worry Blueblood, with enough mana this spell can be made nearly permanent. I’ll simply link it to the ambient magic of the castle itself." Twilight smirked with complete confidence.

"But what if somepony touches me?" Blueblood asked, looking at his hooves again. "You’re making an illusion, right? So, what happens if a pony tries to give me a hug and instead ends up holding my hoof or something?"

"That’s why this spell is sure to work." She tapped the page of the book. "This spell will also mess with their depth perception. So if anypony tried that, their brain would automatically adjust their aim without even realizing it." She grinned. "It can even change your voice!"

"Yeah, Blueblood, it’s like you’ve never been to a funhouse run by a unicorn before. Besides, you’ve got nothing to worry about. Twilight’s, like, super good when it comes to casting spells and stuff," Spike said.

"It just seems like using the amulet but with extra steps," Blueblood grumbled.

"But with far less mana drain!"Twilight emphasized, before abruptly charging her horn. "Please stand back, Spike — when this spell hits peak thaumic efficiency, you’re gonna see some serious science!"

Spike immediately complied and soon after a small mote of purple electricity emerged from the tip of her horn. It arched across the room, then popped in a ring of light that expanded to cover the entire room in a flash, before slowly dissipating into just a few sparkles of glitter which gently floated to the floor.

The prince looked at his hooves and tail but didn’t notice any changes. "Did it work?"

"See for yourself," Twilight replied with a smirk, conjuring a large mirror in front of him and revealing his colt counterpart.

"Whoa…it can even fool reflections?" Blueblood exclaimed, impressed by the result.

"Not quite, but the result is the same. The spell on the castle will also affect you. It would have been needlessly complex to limit the effect to certain ponies. You’re seeing what we see,” Twilight corrected, fluffing up her wings in a subtle show of pride. "Now we can relax a bit more during your stay in the castle."

"I really don't know what to say, Twilight. Seriously, thank you!" Blueblood said, a huge smile donning his face. He wrapped a foreleg around her in an appreciative hug, which made her giggle and return the gesture.

"Anytime, cousin. You know I'm here to help,” Twilight replied.

They ended the hug and Blueblood let out a huge yawn. "Well, as much as I’d like to stay up longer, it’s been a really busy day. I think I’ll call it a night."

"I'm with you there, buddy," Spike added with an accompanying yawn as he scratched his head. "It really was a long day. I’ll see you guys tomorrow." With that, he plodded off to his room, arms hanging limply at his sides.

Twilight nodded. "Maybe it's for the best. Tomorrow, you’ll start your first day of school, so it’d be smart if you got as much rest as possible."

“No arguments here." Blueblood nodded and started to leave.

"Blueblood?" Twilight called out to him before he got too far.

"Yeah, Twi?" He looked back at her and noticed how she stared down at the floor, looking uncomfortable. "What happened this morning…" She gazed back at him. "You know that even if you were a colt I was being serious, right?"

Blueblood’s ears pinned back, then he turned to the hallway. "I know, Twilight."

"I meant every word, Blueblood. I'm always here for you if you ever want or need to talk about anything. You know that, right?."

The prince sighed and closed his eyes in thought. "I know Twilight, I…will try my best."

"That’s all I want." She smiled and closed the book with her magic.

"Twilight," Blueblood called. She turned back to see that he was still not looking at her. “I was…" he started, and then he hesitated. He looked as if he was conflicted about something, but in the end he shook his head. "Never mind, it doesn't matter. Goodnight, Twilight."

Twilight wanted to say something too as she extended her hoof, but she stopped herself and retracted it. "You too…" she whispered, watching him with concern as he slowly left the room.







The next day, at Miss Cheerilee’s school



The morning classes began as they normally did, with a purple earth pony mare writing her lessons for the day on the large chalkboard, as colts and fillies entered her classroom and sat in their respective seats. Once she’d finished, she put the chalk away and addressed her class with a smile. "Good morning, students!"

"Good morning, Miss Cheerilee!" The fillies and colts responded in unison.

"Before we begin our lesson, I’d like to introduce you all to a new student that’ll be joining us for some time," Cheerilee said to them with cheer evident in her voice. "Princess Twilight’s distant cousin, New Blood." She pointed a hoof at the door of her classroom where Blueblood, in his colt form, was standing with his head held low, holding his small saddlebag and trying to be as small as possible.

"Don't be afraid, sweetheart. Come in and introduce yourself!" Cheerilee coached him.

Soon the colt walked inside and waved at them. "H-hi everyone."

"Hi, New Blood!" the class responded, some even waving to him.

"New Blood, why don't you go and find yourself a seat? There’s one available behind Sweetie Belle."

"O-okay Miss Cheerilee."

Miss Cheerilee leaned over to him. "Oh, and don't worry about today’s classes. Twilight’s already informed me about your situation," she whispered into his ear. "Since you’re new here, today you can just sit and listen to the class. Will that be okay with you?"

Blueblood nodded and went to the available desk without saying anything to anypony. He sat down and immediately withdrew a book from his saddlebag and opened it to the first of many illustrated pages. It was a picture book on the Equestrian alphabet that Twilight had packed for him. She had said it was titled “Prim & Proper’s Guides to Early Education: Phonetic Pictorials''. This was the first of twenty-eight such volumes.

He casually flipped through the first couple of pages, noticing the varied, vivid visuals on the thin parchment. The book must have been three pony shoes thick, and could easily contain over five-hundred pages which made him wonder how such a thing was a children’s book. Blueblood made a note to himself that, once he figured out the numbering system, he’d flip to the final page to check the count. Flipping back to the first page, he began his studies with determination.

"Well kids, I hope you’ve all brought your pencils, because today’s class is a very important lesson. You’d all be wise to remember it," Cherilee lectured, before pointing to the chalkboard. "Continuing on with last week’s lessons on pony magic, we are going to be discussing ‘magic surges’." She tapped the first of three chalk drawings on the backboard: a pony shoe.

Blueblood looked up, suddenly interested in the subject at hoof. He looked at the teacher before gazing at the book, ultimately deciding to put it away for now.

"As you all know, magic is a primordial factor in life for Equestria. It exists in all forms, shapes, and sizes, organic and inorganic alike, and of course that includes us," she explained. "And because of that, all of us need to be careful with our emotions and how we express and control them." She chuckled, and then looked at the class with a mischievous gleam in her eye. "Unless, of course, somepony wants to have a windigo as their new neighbor, right?"

The entire class broke out into giggles at that, before slowly dying down.

"Miss Cheerilee!” an orange filly pegasus with a purple mane raised her hoof. "Was a magic surge the reason wendigos showed up in the first place?"

"That’s very close, Scootaloo," Cheerilee answered. "If you remember back to the Hearth's Warming play, the wendigos were drawn to a group where one or more ponies may have surged. Since our magic is linked so closely to our emotions it's important that we try our best to keep strong, negative emotions in moderation and release them safely."

“Why’s that, Miss Cheerilee?” another filly, this one yellow with a red mane and pink bow asked.

"That, Applebloom, is because when a pony’s stronger emotions, like anger, hate, fear, and sadness reach a certain level, their body has no choice but to expel it all at once. This phenomenon is what we call a ‘magic surge’ and it can result in some serious and dangerous side effects," Cheerilee answered, then continued to write on the chalkboard.

"Take earth ponies like myself for example. Earth ponies especially have an inherent connection with the earth itself. A magic surge could result in permanent damage to the very minerals and nutrients in the soil itself, the growth of the plants around us or, even worse, ponies and other creatures. It’s been said that one such surge created what we now know as the Everfree Forest," she said. "And I'm sure that nopony here would like to create more of those places, right?"

The earth ponies in the room flinched and shook their heads rapidly.

"Collectively, we call those places ‘Sorrows of the Land’,” Cheerilee continued, as she wrote the names of a few of such places on the chalkboard under a drawing of a ponyshoe; flytrap forest, gloom’s glowforge, blasted crown island, shadow sneak vines, mirelurk swamp, quarry eels, and cry-stone mine.

Blueblood looked to his classmates who were using either their mouths or their magic to write, and idly felt his own horn with a hoof. Would he be able to write like that soon?

"Moving on, we have the pegasi." Cheerilee pointed to the picture of a pegasus wing. "As the primary controllers of the weather. A magic surge could result in their bodies becoming literal storms, shape impossible clouds, and change the weather of entire regions. Much of that is a best-case scenario. As you may know, one single, healthy, adult pegasus with a weather related cutiemark can create a thunderstorm. During a magic surge, they could provoke a natural disaster that could keep on growing out of control which would make it extremely difficult for even an entire team to break up or redirect. The top end of that scale can even produce ‘Living Storms', a storm that is self-sustaining, so big that they can not be moved.” Cheerilee wrote a list of some such places on the chalkboard; rumble ridge, gravity falls, Marecaibo lake, tornado valley, glufferflorks, and foggy bottom bog.

The pegasi foals all grimaced and looked back at their wings, wondering just how much power their bodies held inside them.

“Regardless of tribe, a magic surge would leave a pony drained of all their energy. Most ponies would be unable to walk and many would fall asleep. Further, a unicorn would take days of rest before they could cast spells again and a pegasus would be unable to cloudwalk or fly," she intoned. The pegasi all clamped their wings tightly against the bodies.

"And finally, we have the unicorns." Cheerilee continued, pointing at the chalk drawing of a unicorn horn on the board.

Blueblood blinked and once again pawed at his horn with a hoof, this time out of worry. He braced himself for whatever he could be facing at some point.

"The most proficient in magic of the three tribes. When it comes to the manipulation of magic, a unicorn must always be careful, but during a magic surge that may become impossible. For example, a pony like Twilight Sparkle, her cutiemark represents the understanding and performing of magic in all of its forms. Documented magic surges from her have resulted in flash fires and localized wind gales. Out of the three tribes, the unicorn has the most unpredictable magic surges because of their magical education and cutiemark classification." Cheerilee wrote a few places on the chalkboard; creeper crystals, cloud squall, Brad’s bottomless Pitt, destruction's end, and castle Grayskull.

Had Blueblood’s fur not already been white, he would’ve made an impressive imitation of a Halloween ghost then and there.

When Cheerilee finished writing, she looked over the class. "Remember kids, it's okay to express your anger if the situation provokes it because bottling that anger only makes it grow. However, a magic surge is never okay. Always be careful and keep in mind how to de-escalate a tense situation through finding a common ground, or by simply offering a hoof in friendship or kindness. A magic surge is nothing to joke about. Many lives have been lost because of them." Cheerilee started a fourth list on the chalkboard; Everfree forest, battle of East hastings, whip and idol transfer, ten-six tea party, poke-a-mango, children of the night, lost woods labyrinth, Sunny’s pinpoint, and dance party button.

At that moment a bell rang out announcing the end of the first period.

“Time for recess. Go play, kids! We’ll continue this after recess," she announced. Almost as soon as she did, everypony began to file out of the room. Blueblood, however, instead moved towards Cheerilee.

"That was an amazing lesson Miss Cheerilee!" Blueblood praised.

Cheerilee beamed at him. "I'm glad that you liked it, New Blood. I always try to make my lessons as interesting as possible."

"Well, you sure did well today, but there’s something I was left wondering about…"

"Yes? What was that, dear?"

"Well, you told us about what happens if an earth pony, a unicorn, or a pegasus gets really angry, but what if an alicorn has a magic surge?" he asked.

Cheerilee flinched. "I…” she began. “I didn’t…want to worry anypony.” Her ears folded back and she lowered her head, looking back at the chalkboard. “That’s what the fourth list is for." she whispered to him.

Blueblood’s eyes went wide. "What was that, miss?"

“That’s…something I’ll be teaching later when we cover history. For now, why don't you go outside and play with the other foals?" She lightly pushed him out of the room and then pointed to the orange filly, who was talking with a white unicorn filly and the yellow earth pony filly from before.

“Well, if you’re sure, miss,” Blueblood murmured.

"Don’t worry, New Blood. Look, the Cutie Mark Crusaders are over there. Why don't you go and play with them? I'm sure they would love for you to join them!" Cheerilee replied quickly, nudging him toward the door.

 Blueblood looked back at her, confused, before shrugging and doing as she’d said, while the teacher watched him go.

He really is Twilight’s cousin, she thought with a giggle. Jumping ahead of the class, right to the difficult questions! She chuckled again before wiping off her chalkboard, and began preparing for the next lesson.





Meanwhile at the train station

A blue pegasus mare with a rainbow colored mane and tail stepped out of the train, stretching in joy. "Aw yeah, that’s the stuff! It's good to be back!"

"Oh, come on, Rainbow," a pink unicorn with a dark purple mane and tail with a cyan streak passing through it groaned at the pegasus as she emerged from the train. "We weren't gone for that long. Plus, you said that you enjoyed our friendship mission, especially since you got a chance to have another race with Lighting Dust."

Rainbow Dash just shrugged at the comment. "What can I say, Starlight? There’s no place like home!" she replied, before abruptly leaping into the air.

"Well, you won’t get any arguments from me there," Starlight replied as she left the station. "Wanna head to the castle and let Twilight know how the mission went?"

"Nah, you can go do that egghead stuff of yours. I think I'll go surprise Scootaloo and see if we can rustle up some snacks from Sugarcube Corner. See ya later, Starlight!" Rainbow mock-saluted, and then flew away, leaving a streak of rainbow in the sky as her friend waved her goodbye.

Well, time to see Twilight, Starlight thought to herself, chuckling a little as she headed towards Twilight’s castle. Knowing Ponyville, I’d imagine some crazy adventure’s happened during our absence. Wouldn’t be the first time, and certainly not the last.
> Rumors and Raindrop (Mr. W, CC, YB, W-SS And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was one of those days again.

Specifically, one of the more frustrating days that wanted to make Celestia tear out her mane. Outwardly, she was the perfect picture of calm. Alas, she had a reputation and public image to uphold. Mentally sighing, she shook her thoughts of political regicide out of her head and turned her attention back to her subject, patiently waiting for the mare to finish her inane rant.

The yellow unicorn mare, Upper Crust, had a light purple mane and tail, with one white stripe going through both, and she wore a white shirt with a pink sweater tied around her neck along with some eyeshadow. The mare’s bearing and attitude was unmistakable: she was a noble through and through — stiff, stuffy, overbearing, overambitious, overdramatic, utterly boring, and probably a little insane.

"…so as you can see, my concerns regarding your nephew are more than well-founded, your Highness," Upper Crust finished, nodding her head once in finality.

FINALLY! Celestia screamed in her head. "And I appreciate the…inordinately detailed explanation, Miss Upper Crust. But as I told you yesterday, there is no reason to worry. Prince Blueblood is away on personal business."

"Oh? But Your Highness, leaving without notice doesn't seem like the prince at all! As one of his closest friends he always tells me when he is planning business trips, so I could always have the first say in the best inns and hotels to stay."

Celestia had to resist the urge to do something terrible and irreversible. It may have involved a giant trebuchet and an uppity nobel unicorn in low orbit. "And again, as I’ve told you, his business is none of my concern, be it a last minute emergency meeting or a simple vacation."

The noblemare began to giggle. "And to think, there are rumors saying that you decided to banish him forever to the Badlands. I mean, could you just imagine such a thing, your Highness?"

"Truly, the imaginations of some ponies is a staggering thing, no?" Celestia joked with a practiced smile. 

"Well, can I at the very least know when he’ll be back, your Highness?" Upper Crust asked.

The princess replied quickly: "I'm afraid I am not privy to that information. The situation he’s dealing with is his own."

"Oh…such a shame. Oh well, thank you for your time, your Highness. I will inform the plebeians behind me that you will now see them." Upper Crust gave her a small bow, following up with, "Have a nice day, your Highness."

"Likewise," Celestia replied with her usual smile. As soon as the noblemare was out of sight, Celestia let out a long, suffering sigh and slumped in her throne. How are these rumors spreading so quickly? Celestia thought to herself. Nevertheless, there was more work to be done, so she sat up straight, rolled her shoulders, straightened her crown and politely asked the guard on door duty,: “Next petitioner, please.”

The guards at the door nodded and stepped outside. Shortly after, the next petitioner approached the princess.





As day court continued to move forward, Upper Crust continued further down the hallway until she spotted a familiar white pegasus, waiting for her behind one of the large, ornate pillars.

"How did it go?" the white pegasus asked Upper Crust curiously.

"You were right, Sharp Shot, the princess is evading the question,” Upper Crust replied with a sour frown. “What about you? Did you find anything about his whereabouts?"

He shook his head. “Prince Blueblood is nowhere to be found. The ponies in my social network have searched everywhere. Even Fancy Pants’s inner circle has found no sign of him and we both know that subtlety isn’t exactly his forte."

"This can only mean one thing. Something did happen to him and the princesses are trying to cover it up. It’s a conspiracy that goes all the way to the top!"

Sharp Shot nodded. “This could also be a golden opportunity for us. If Celestia really has caused Blueblood to vanish, the nobility would finally obtain the bargaining chip against the princesses that we have been waiting years for.”

"Plus the gossip! Or even better, if he isn’t found, one of us could move up in nobility. I could finally become a duchess!" Upper Crust swooned.

"And that could be just the tip of the iceberg," the stallion agreed before looking around. "For now though, we need to focus on the bigger picture. See what else we can find and, most importantly, discover where exactly the prince ended up. It shouldn’t be too difficult. The pompous idiot would be impossible to miss." He began slipping back into the shadows. "For now, we should go. The guards will arrive here soon on their usual patrol and we should not be seen together. We should meet at our usual spot at the usual time."

Upper Crust nodded, “Of course. My place for tea and cookies at one o'clock.” 

The two schemers headed in different directions. Unfortunately for them, they weren’t as careful as they should have been. Behind another pillar, a yellow-coated maid let out a breath she didn’t even realize she was holding. She leaned against the pillar to regain her composure. She hadn’t meant to eavesdrop, it had just happened, but now she was glad she did.

I need to inform the princesses! The maid thought before darting toward the throne room as fast as her frilly uniform would allow.





Back in Ponyville

"Go long, New B!" Scootaloo yelled, throwing a rubber ball as hard as she could.

"I got it, I got it!" Blueblood shouted as he chased the airborne ball. Feeling like he was going to miss, he jumped and came close to catching it when a cyan blur suddenly swooped down and caught the ball. He fell to the ground in surprise, letting out a small grunt from the impact. “I didn’t get it…” he muttered into the grass.

"And Rainbow Dash makes the save!" Rainbow Dash cheered, landing on the ground and spinning the ball in one of her forehooves with a cocky smirk.

"Anypony get the number of the carriage that hit me?" Blueblood asked as he stood up, brushing himself off.

"Rainbow Dash!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders cheered in unison, rushing towards Rainbow.

The cyan mare let out a small chuckle and ruffled Scootaloo’s mane with her free hoof, looking down at her warmly. "Hiya, squirt! Did ya miss me?"

"Who wouldn’t?” the orange filly replied, smiling up at her. “Did your mission go well?"

"Did you bring us any souvenirs?" Sweetie Belle asked with big puppy eyes.

"Was it dangerous?" Apple Bloom asked with curiosity.

“Was it awesome?!” all three of them cried.

Before the mare could speak of her “awesome” mission, Blueblood approached the four and coughed. "Ah, miss?" This caught their attention, Rainbow especially considering she hadn’t met the colt before. "Can we have our ball back?" He asked, pointing to the rubber ball in Rainbow’s hoof.

"Sure thing, kid." She gave him the ball back, following up with a question of her own: "Who are you? Are you new in town?"

"He’s Twilight’s cousin, New Blood!" Sweetie Belle answered, withdrawing from the mare and approaching the prince with a smile. "Rarity told me all about him!"

"Twilight’s cousin, huh?" Rainbow looked at them with a raised brow before looking at Blueblood. "I don't exactly see the resemblance."

"We’re kind of distant cousins," Blueblood clarified.

At that moment, the Crusaders gasped in realization and pulled Rainbow away from Blueblood, who was preoccupying his attention with the ball. "Rainbow, you need to be careful not to spook him too much," Scootaloo whispered.

"What? Why’s that?"

"Applejack told me ‘bout it," Applebloom said. "Apparently, somethin’ really bad happened to him recently, somethin’ that scared him so much that he lost all of his memories!"

"Whoa, really?" Rainbow whisper-shouted, looking back at Blueblood again.

"It’s true, Rainbow. Rarity told me about it too, and Fluttershy confirmed it. Something very bad happened to him…he almost died.” Sweetie’s voice became quieter as she mentioned that bit. “That’s why he doesn't even know how to use magic. He’s probably still very scared."

"Wow, that sounds really intense…" Rainbow said softly before an irritated look came across her expression. "That’s totally not cool."

"Uh, excuse me?" Blueblood called to them, his attention lost from the ball. "Is something wrong? Why’d you all suddenly gather around and start to whisper?"

"Oh, nothin's wrong! We were, uh…we were…" Applebloom started, but couldn’t think of what else to say.

"…W-weeee just remembered about a surprise party for Diamond Tiara that Rainbow agreed to assist us with!" Sweetie Bell finished for her friend.

"Uh, I did?" Dash asked quietly before being given a small nudge from Scootaloo. "Er, I mean yeah, I did!"

"And we needed to whisper in case she was nearby. Y’know, to keep the surprise!" Scootaloo finished with a nervous smile.

You were totally talking about me. Rude much, guys? "Well, that explains the whispering, I suppose," Blueblood said.

Geez, is he that gullible? Maybe he really did lose his memories, Rainbow Dash thought as she approached him with a beat of her wings, kicking some dust up into the air. "Anyway, nice to meet ya, kid! The name’s Rainbow Dash but you probably already knew that."

"Yeah, you’re like the big sister of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, right?"

"That’s right, I'm the…wait, what?" Rainbow Dash was confused.

"Yeah, how else would you explain why they’re so happy to see you?"

"Well, duh, because I'm so awesome! Even if you don't remember, it’s impossible not to know who I am!" She struck a heroic pose.

"Uh, sorry Miss Dash, I really don't."

That caught her off guard. Breaking the pose, she darted to him and grabbed him by the shoulder. Lifting the colt up into the air, she started firing off titles. "Rainbow ‘Danger Dash, fastest flier in Equestria? Element of Harmony who saved the world, like, a bajillion times? Newest member of the Wonderbolts?"

"…Who are the Wonderbolts?" Blueblood asked.

Dash gasped in horror, almost dropping the poor colt to the ground. "HOW COULD YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN THE COOLEST FLYING TEAM EVER?!" she cried, shaking Blueblood.

"Rainbow Dash, put him down!" Scootaloo cried out in alarm.

The shaking was starting to make Blueblood dizzy, along with making even more dust come into the air from Dash’s wings flapping. It didn’t take long for the dust to reach his nose, which began to itch terribly. He scrunched his face up to stop the oncoming sneeze, but with the shaking and his dizziness, he quickly succumbed.The colt sneezed, accidentally fired off a magic beam which hit Dash square in the forehead which caused her to drop Blueblood.

"Hey! You sneezed on me, kid!" Rainbow scolded. She then froze in shock. Her anger quickly dissipated when she noticed the way her voice sounded. "What the…?" She scratched at her throat with a hoof. Why was her voice suddenly a higher-pitch?

"Rainbow Dash?" a deep, booming voice echoed out in front. Rainbow looked up, way, way up. She saw New Blood standing in front of her, towering far above. He was, like, super big. Gargantuan even! "Are you okay?"

"New Blood, what did you do?! You’re a giant!" she shouted up at him. Or at least she attempted to. It sounded more like a high-pitched squeak that would make Fluttershy proud.

"Actually…" another deep, feminine voice called out. Scootaloo appeared beside him. "It’s kinda the other way around, Rainbow."

"S-Scoots…please tell me that you were hit by the spell too," Rainbow pleaded. A gigantic leaf passed within her eyesight. The color drained from Rainbow’s face. They didn’t get bigger, she got smaller. It was the Poison Joke incident all over again only this time it was her getting shrunk and not Applejack.

"Okay Rainbow, don't ya panic now" Applebloom started, trying to keep her calm. Her words fell on tiny, deaf ears.

“Oh no, oh no! ” Rainbow squeak-screamed in fright.

"Well, at least now you and Applejack have something in common!" Sweetie Belle said.

"Sweetie Belle, this is totally not funny!" Rainbow shot a tiny glare at the normal-sized filly who only giggled in response.

"Sorry, sorry, it's just … not a big problem. Just a tiny one,” Sweetie Belle said with a grin.

"Come on girls, be cool. Rainbow needs a little help," Scootaloo said, trying to be mature about the situation but failing to hide her own amusement.

"You could say she’s more like a Raindrop now," Sweetie Belle quipped, causing the snickering to intensify.

"Would it be wrong for me to say that she looks kind of cute like this?" Blueblood said to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. His words caused another burst of laughter, much to Rainbow’s displeasure. Feeling that he may have upset her, he picked up the colorful pony and held her up with a hoof. "Don't worry, Miss Dash, we can fix this."

"Oh no you don’t." Dash’s miniature wings flared. "I’m going to the castle. Twilight can fix this." With that, she launched into the air and rocketed towards the castle. 

The fillies and colt watched in wonder. Rainbow Dash, the world's fastest flier, wasn’t. Her wings were buzzing wildly but she had barely moved an inch, two inches, then three. She was struggling to make any progress.

Scootaloo blinked, "Why is she moving so slow?"

"I have no idea," Blueblood replied. "I’m just gonna guess… ‘magic?" Blueblood plucked her out of the air with a hoof.

"Hey! Watch the wings, bub!"

"I'm sorry, Miss Dash, but with the speed you’re going I don’t think you’ll ever make it to the castle. You should stay with us until we can get you there ourselves," Blueblood said.

At that moment, they heard the school bell ring. "Oh no, recess is over! We need to get back to the classroom!" Sweetie Belle uttered.

"What? Nonono, we are going to Twilight’s castle right now!" Rainbow demanded.

Blueblood ignored her and placed her behind his ear. He made sure she was secure enough before galloping towards the schoolhouse. "Hang on, Miss Dash!"

"But I gotta get big!" Rainbow complained. With no other choice, she held onto his ear for dear life.





Two hours later at Twilight’s castle

"…and after their race was over, Rainbow and I boarded the next train here," Starlight finished her story. She sat on Fluttershy’s throne while Twilight sat on her own.

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Of course she would. Rainbow would never miss a chance for a race, especially if it’s against somepony as fast as Lightning Dust," she said with some bemusement.

"So, who won?" Spike asked, who was sitting in Rarity’s chair.

"I think Rainbow would like to tell you about that part, Spike," Starlight responded, looking at the dragon. "And it's not important right now. What is important is that the mission was a success and Rainbow got her friend back!"

"That’s good to hear," Twilight said with a smile.

"So, how have things been going here? Any world-ending threats come by while Rainbow and I are gone?" Starlight asked with a knowing look.

Twilight raised a brow. "Why would you think something like that would happen?"

"Because this is Ponyville. Even before Discord started living here it was already the Chaos Capital of the world. Something’s always happening in this…” To further her point, Starlight raised her hooves and made air-quotes, “...quiet village."

"You know, I can't argue with that," Spike muttered before speaking up. "Actually, yeah, we have something going on at the moment. Nothing world-ending though." He gave Twilight an expectant look. "We might as well tell her, Twilight. They’re gonna be roommates soon enough."

"’Roommates’?" Starlight asked with a raised brow. “What, are you renting my room out or something?”

“No, of course not!” Twilight shifted around uncomfortably for a couple of seconds before she looked to the mare. "It’s kind of a long story, and in order to tell you, I will need you to Pinkie Promise me that what you are about to hear is not going to leave this room. Understood?"

Starlight was slightly jarred by the shift in tone, but nodded nevertheless. "You can count on me, Twilight. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." She did the usual motions with her hooves.

Twilight smiled at Starlight. "Thank you for understanding," she said. "You see, for the next couple of weeks a family member of mine is going to be staying with us and the reason for that is because he needs time to recover. He had a magic accident that erased most of his memories."

"Well, that does sound serious," Starlight said with a nod. "Although, I don't see why you need me to keep quiet about it."

"That isn’t the part I need you to keep quiet about. It’s what I'm about to tell you." Twilight took a deep breath before continuing, "Starlight, I know you’re a smart mare and you’d probably figure it out on your own so I might as well tell you; it’s a cover story."

That piqued Starlight’s interest.

“Not even Twilights’ friends can know the truth.” Spike explained. ”Because if the public finds out that he doesn't remember anything they can use his memory loss for their own personal gain."

“Personal gain?” Starlight echoed.

Spike played with his thumbs a bit. “He’s…kind of a big deal in some circles?”

"Ohhh, I understand now." Starlight nodded, looking down in shame. "I'm familiar with the manipulation game."

"Oh, right, Our Town," Twilight was quick to retort. "Which is why he is here, so Ponyville can act as a safe haven."

"Safe haven?"

"When it comes to his re-education, I mean," Twilight clarified, "And until he can relearn the basics of magic and have a better understanding of the world around him."

Starlight closed her eyes and then sighed in resignation. "Okay, Twilight." She opened them and smiled at the princess. "While I am interested in knowing what this is all about, if you don’t want me to poke, I won’t poke at it. But you owe me an explanation later."

"Thank-you, Starlight," Twilight sighed in relief. "I hoped you would understand."

"Anytime. So, what can you tell me? Is there anything I could do to help?"

A light bulb turned on in Spike’s head. "You could help him with his magic lessons!" he exclaimed. "New Blood could learn from one of the best magic users around and Starlight will get to practice her friendship lessons with him."

"Spike, that's a great idea!" Twilight said, excitement in her eyes.

"’New Blood’, huh? So that's his name?" Starlight asked. "And I’m gonna take a wild guess and say it's fake?"

"Starlight, you Pinkie Promised," Twilight reminded her.

"Sorry, sorry, I swear that was the only one. And I like that idea a lot. I don't do a whole lot in the School of Friendship on some days so having some company would be great," Starlight replied with a sheepish grin.

"Plus, you can go explore more of the town with him and have fun," Spike added. Then he smirked at her. "Just don't try to insert all the knowledge into his brain all at once with a spell."

Starlight rolled her eyes. "You use a multilayered spell for a shortcut once and nopony ever lets you live it down. I see how it is."

Twilight and Spike snickered with Starlight joining in despite herself.

"So? When do I get to meet him?" she asked.

Twilight glanced at a nearby clock. "Looks like you're in luck. His first class should be over by now, so he could arrive at any time."

As if on cue Blueblood and the Crusaders trotted into the map room. Had it not been for their worried looks Twilight would’ve complimented Blueblood for his punctuality.

"Oh hey New Blood, how was school?" Spike asked, hopping off his chair.

"Oh, it was great. Miss Cheerilee is a really fun teacher and I even managed to make some new friends." He pointed at the Cutie Mark Crusaders, who gave the three of them a quick wave. “But we’ve got a tiny problem here.”

"Hello! Miniaturized daredevil!" Rainbow squeaked from his mane.

 Twilight, Starlight, and Spike squinted at the shrunken Rainbow Dash clinging to Bluebood’s ear.

"I had a little magic accident," Blueblood finished. He lifted a hoof up to his ear and held Rainbow up to her. "Can you fix her, Twilight?"

"Please, please, please! For the love of Celestia, Luna, Faust, Discord, and any other deity out there in the cosmos, tell me that you can!" Dash begged.

Twilight’s jaw dropped, Spike doubled over in laughter, and Starlight face-hooved.

"How did this even happen?" Starlight asked.

"Well, I kind of…sneezed?" Blueblood replied.

Today was the day when Spike learned he could pass out from laughing too hard.
> The Meaning Of The Star (Mr. W, CC, GT4, YB  And W-SS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Returning Rainbow Dash to her original size didn’t take a very long time. A few, carefully applied spells later and she was back to her normal-sized self. Blueblood quickly apologized and Rainbow assured him that everything was “cool”. Afterwards, Twilight introduced Blueblood to Starlight, the other unicorn in the room, who seemed to be quite a powerful mage judging by how she was the one who wrote out the dispel on a blackboard that Twilight was to cast.

Once Blueblood and Starlight moved aside to discuss how Blueblood’s magic lessons would work, with Rainbow joining in to offer a few pointers of her own on how to make it “less egghead-y” for him. Twilight decided to write a letter to Princess Celestia asking for clues in how Blueblood was able to perform such an advanced spell by accident. As luck would have it, she didn't have to wait for too long for a scroll to appear in a flash of magic.

Twilight unfurled the scroll and read.



My dearest Twilight Sparkle,
I'm so happy to know that, even with his memories of magic gone, the potential of my nephew hasn’t been lost. I imagine that you have many questions right now, so allow me to clarify things. Although unusual, the showing of such extraordinary magical potential in Blueblood is not something to be surprised by because, just like you and Starlight, he too is a prodigy in magic. Many star-related cutiemarks have a direct link to the mastery of one or more of the subcategories of the ‘Intangible’ classification of magic.



Twilight paused in her reading to think back to Blueblood’s cutiemark — a cardinal star. It was something that she had never really thought much about, since a pony’s cutiemark could easily have any number of meanings. Stars could denote anything from cartography, topography, navigation, to any number of military fields like commanding, strategy, or battle tactics. A pony is not defined by their cutiemark, a cutiemark often exemplifies existing talents of a pony. However, now that she thought about it, the prince was known for having disdain for being outdoors. With a hum of increased interest she returned to the letter.



Since his early days, Blueblood had always managed to show incredible potential in several fields of magic. The day he received his cutiemark was because of an extraordinary act. He obtained it after taking five small pieces of wood and transforming them into twenty marble statues that, to this day, still decorate the East Lunar wing of the castle. He created a new spell that combined alchemy, transmutation, transformation, and duplication in a novel way.
Your cutiemark represents the study of magic, Starlight Glimmer’s cutiemark represents the experimentation of magic. Shining Armor’s cutiemark represents the mastery of defensive magic. Blueblood’s cutiemark, on the other hoof, represents the exploration of magic.
It was a real shame. He could have easily led the explorations of magic into uncharted territories, like Starswirl the Bearded once did. However, at the first signs of hardship, he would often abandon it altogether. As you could imagine that was particularly difficult for me, seeing him giving up on his passion at the first sign of adversity. Which is why it warms my heart to hear that his potential has once again been re-ignited and his passion for spellweaving can be explored once again. Do not worry about teaching him any advanced magic you wish to impart, Twilight. I know it may be difficult for you, seeing a developing magic user struggle, but I ask you to please let him rediscover his love of magic at his own pace.

Dictated but not read;
H.R.H Princess Celestia

P.S.
The castle staff doesn’t seem to mind the recent change in him, either.
- Raven




Once she finished reading the letter, Twilight placed it down on the Cutie Map and began to process what she had just read with scholarly wonder.

Prince Blueblood, a pony who seemed to have no care for magic whatsoever or any seeming aptitude for it, was a PRODIGY?!

She turned back to see Blueblood was still chatting with Starlight and Rainbow Dash in the living room while drinking tea. The cutiemark Crusaders had already left Spike for their respective homes since they still had school work to do and couldn't stay for too long. Spike had long since passed out from laughing so hard. Twilight wasn’t worried, though a nap seemed like a good idea.

And the reason why only Princess Celestia knew about it was because he just thought that the idea of hard work and determination was out of his comfort zone. So he just straight-up abandoned it before anypony knew WHAT his talent was? His own bucking cutiemark?! I just…I can't…that is just wrong!

Twilight flicked her ears and groaned in frustration. The processing factory in her inner-machinations was working overtime but had already burned through every ounce of its fuel.

Maybe we were thinking of his amnesia all wrong. Maybe his own talent just wanted some payback on him for ignoring it for so long! By Celestia, if he dares say that simple magic is too hard, I'm going to ground him for a year! Twilight thought, still venting her frustration.

Twilight smirked, glad that his lazy and self-centered side was gone. She teleported the letter to the desk in her study then returned to the rest of the group just in time to hear the end of Rainbow Dash’s story of the formation of the Wonderbolts.

"…And ever since then the Wonderbolts have been known as the greatest, coolest, most skilled team of Pegasus flyers in all of Equestria!" Rainbow was saying. “And it’s also why you should have me as your personal physical education instructor.”

"Incredible," Blueblood uttered, clearly impressed. "So they’re like the air force for Princess Celestia and Princess Luna?"

Rainbow put a hoof to her chin. "In case of a war, yeah, I suppose,” she answered. “They’ll instantly be field promoted to generals and will be in charge of leading the troops who will kick the flanks of anypony that threatens Equestria!" Rainbow puffed out her chest in pride.

I see, so they’re a little like the Blue Angels, Blueblood chuckled. Who knew Equestria had their own version of them? Thought Blueblood.

"Otherwise they keep themselves in top flying form by performing in Cloudsdale and competing in races or stunt-flying," Rainbow finished.

"Gee, that sounds like fun! No wonder you want to join them, Miss Dash."

"Join them?" she echoed, raising a cocky eyebrow. "Who says that I haven’t already?"

"Well, you seem to admire them more than talk as if you are one of them and if you’re on active duty you usually have to stay where you’re deployed, right?"

"Okay, first off, that is not how the Wonderbolts work, and second, that is not how the military works, either." Rainbow corrected him. "Besides, other than being an awesome team, being part of the Wonderbolts is not so different from having a regular job. So, of course I’ll have time off." She shrugged. “Plus, the Wonderbolts gave me a special posting here as Ponyville’s primary Wonderbolt. So, in case the town is attacked by Everfree monsters, I’m in charge of coordinating the defense with Mayor Mare and Twilight.”

"That’s so cool!" Blueblood commented.

"Rainbow is right, New Blood," Twilight said, stepping into the conversation. "Being part of the Wonderbolts doesn’t mean you have to leave everything behind to serve your country. It's about being part of a team and becoming a symbol for other pegasi to aspire to: a pride of peak body conditioning."

"You said it, Twilight!" Rainbow said with a proud smile.

"How could I forget? You remind us of it constantly," Twilight snarked back with a giggle, to which Rainbow rolled her eyes.

"I have to keep saying that because you girls are always calling me tiny but I’m just aerodynamic! Well anyway, now you know the story, you no longer have an excuse," Rainbow pointed at Blueblood.

"Are you blaming me for having amnesia?" Blueblood asked with a raised eyebrow, causing Starlight and Twilight to glare at her.

Rainbow realized what she was doing and backed away. "No, but you know, it was kind of hard to forget something so incredible and… Look, I'm sorry for shaking you like that. That wasn't cool of me," She offered her hoof to him. "Are we good?"

Blueblood nodded and grabbed her hoof like he normally would if he had a hand. "We are. And sorry again for shrinking you to the size of a fly," he apologized.

"Like I said, squirt, it’s all good. Although, what are you doing with your hoof?" Rainbow asked, confused.

"What do you mean? I'm just shaking your hoof."

"Yeah, but why? You grabbed my hoof and moved it up and down like a minotaur would. Dude, did you also forget you’re a pony?" Rainbow observed.

"Do we not shake hooves?" Blueblood asked innocently, ending the gesture and looking at his hoof.

"Geez, Twilight, you weren't kidding. He really has no idea what he’s doing," Rainbow smirked. "But now you won’t have to worry, you’ll have the coolest pony in Equestria on your side!” She brought him into a hug using her left wing. "I’ll teach you everything that you would need to know and under my wing you’ll one-hundred percent in no time! Maybe even one-hundred twenty-percent!"

"Thank you, Miss Dash," he said, nuzzling her side until one of her feathers tickled his nose, which caused him to want to sneeze again.

Rainbow’s eyes widened and she flapped away as fast as she could, barely avoiding the magic beam that shot past her and hit a teapot. Before anypony could say or do anything, the teapot began to sing opera through its spout.

"Excuse me," Blueblood sniffled.

"Yeeeeah, maybe before I teach you how to be cool it might be better if somepony taught you some lessons on magic control." Rainbow exclaimed. Starlight nodded in agreement.

"That would be a good idea," Blueblood agreed. "When do we start?"

“Why not now?" Starlight suggested. "There’s lots of daylight left and from what I've seen you could use some pointers" She looked at the teapot. "But maybe we should do it outside."

"Well then, let’s go," Blueblood said with a smile as they both left the room.

"Maybe give him some music lessons too, Starlight!" Rainbow called after them as they left. "That teapot has a terrible voice."

Just as she finished saying that, the teapot in question puffed out a cloud of steam and then spat a stream of hot tea onto the back of her head. Rainbow yelped and leaped into the air, glaring at the teapot. Twilight suppressed a giggle.

"Stupid piece of porcelain," Rainbow muttered. “Twi, can you zap it back to normal?.”

The teapot let loose a loud raspberry in her general direction. Twilight fired her horn and disenchanted the tea pot, returning it back to normal, and finally quieting the rude porcelain carafe.





Later that evening

After a few pointers on the basic principles of magic, Starlight introduced Blueblood to the levitation spell. The prince was currently practicing his new spell while Starlight kept an eye on his progress. He was seated in front of a wooden box with various shapes cut out of the top, hoovering a heavy, forged iron cube in his aura two hooves height off the ground.

"That's it New Blood, just like that. Keep the cube steady and slowly lower into the matching shape on the top of the box." Starlight instructed while she watched Blueblood manipulate the cube.

Closing an eye in concentration and putting more effort into his horn, the prince made an effort to keep both objects as steady as possible while trying to place the cube in its respective hole. The moment it happened, he gasped for air and let go of the cube. It immediately fell and tumbled onto the grass.

"That’s pretty good for your first try, New Blood." Starlight praised him. "From just some minor lessons on the basics to your first real practice. I must say, you learn pretty quickly, but you should try to work on not holding your breath."

"Maybe…I just…have a good teacher," Blueblood managed to say in between gasps. He wiped the sweat off his forehead with a fetlock. "Okay, give me a second." He opened his eyes and exhaled deeply out of his nose and stood straight once more. "Want me to try again?"

Starlight chuckled and floated over a glass of water. "I think this is a good place to take a break. You’re clearly tired and it's getting pretty late. For your first lesson you really made some really great progress.” She pointed to her horn. “And you remember what I told you about overusing your magic?"

Blueblood sighed, "I risk damaging my horn and the flow of my magic,” he recited from her lesson.

Starlight clapped her front hooves together. "That's right, New Blood. There is nothing wrong with wanting to improve and explore your magic but it’s important to always remember your limits. Tell you what, tomorrow I’ll take you to Twilight’s School of Friendship and I’ll give you a personal tour."

"Wait, Twilight has a school?" Blueblood jerked his head in surprise.

Starlight laughed. "Yes, she does. Unfortunately, it’s a specialized school and they don't teach a whole lot of magic. You would have to go to Canterlot for that. Don't worry, though. I'm sure Twilight wouldn't mind if I take you for a short visit." She leaned forward and whispered into his ear, "To tell you the truth, it can get kinda boring sometimes and there isn't always much for me to do as the school counselor."

That caught Blueblood’s attention. "Really?"

Starlight nodded. "So, what do you say? Do we have a deal?" she asked, extending her hoof.

"Deal!" Blueblood answered almost immediately and bumped the bottom of his hoof to hers like Rainbow Dash had shown him.

"Off you go then, young colt," she grinned and pointed down the hallway.

"Okay. Goodnight, Miss Glimmer."

"Goodnight, New Blood! And please, just call me Starlight."

"Yes Miss Glimmer!" he called from the hallway.

Blueblood entered his room and closed the door. Once he was sure that nopony was watching, he tapped his necklace twice and returned to his normal size.

This is incredible! I can't believe it, I actually did magic! Real magic! And my teacher said that I'm not bad at it either! This body is incredible! But most importantly…

He flipped open his saddlebag and pulled out a book about the alphabet, a blank notebook, ink pot and feather writing quill.

…I don’t have to pick up things with my hooves any more!

Using his new levitation spell, the prince opened the first two pages, trying to keep the writing quill as steady as possible, wrote out the English alphabet. Underneath each letter he wrote its Equine equivalent.

It’s close enough to the English alphabet. It seems that this world has a total of twenty-six letters to memorize, and uses the same system to write words, so only need to translate each word…

Fighting to keep himself awake, Blueblood managed to complete a slightly sloppy alphabet and used it to translate the letters. After a while, he managed to write the words that he needed to memorize in order to start his search — “spirit, phantom, shadow, specter, and ghost”.

Blueblood gasped for air and dropped his quill to the floor. He was panting with barely enough energy to remain standing.

It’s no use…I really am at my limit now. I need to rest and then practice if I want to keep going. Otherwise, I’ll be waking up with mana burnout.

With a sigh of defeat, Blueblood looked at his reflection in a nearby window.

"I'm sorry, Blueblood, this is all I can do for now. Tomorrow I’ll advance even more, I promise." He whispered at the reflection before gently pushing everything back into his saddlebag with a hoof. Without another word he headed to bed. He snuggled under the blankets, pulling the covers with his teeth over him and flopped his head on the pillow. Sleep came almost instantly.





Back in Canterlot

Both princesses looked patiently into the sky until a Lunar Guard stepped into the room, catching their attention. "Your Highnesses," he announced in a gravelly voice. He gave a small bow to both sisters. "The spy has returned with news about Sharp Shot."

"What news have you?" Luna asked.

"It is as Clean Breeze said, Your Highness. They are plotting to locate the prince and use his condition to their advantage," he reported.

"Thank you, lieutenant, that will be all for now," Celestia dismissed him.

The guard saluted with a leathery bat wing. "Your Highnesses,” he repeated, before spinning around and leaving the two sisters alone in the room.

"What are We to do, sister?" Luna asked. "Their actions may be surreptitious but none of them are breaking any law. Any action We take against them may only add fuel to the fire."

"Do not worry, Lulu, I have an idea," Celestia answered.  She lit her horn and summoned a blank scroll, a quill and ink pot to hover in front of her. "I hoped not to resort to this but Sharp Shot forced our hooves. In order to halt his advances I believe we will need the assistance of a friend."

"What do you have in mind, sister?" Luna raised an eyebrow.

"I shall fabricate a story for the nobles that Blueblood was sent as an ambassador for a delicate mission. All I need to do is set the stage for one," Celestia explained as she started to write a letter.

"And how do you suppose We do that?"

Celestia smirked and faced the younger princess. "Simple enough. I will request the aid of King Thorax," she answered. "Unlike other rulers, the young king has been very receptive to our meetings and is in a unique position to add legitimacy to my little fabrication."

"So your plan is to ask King Thorax to let Us borrow some of his changelings, choose a place for a 'meeting', then ‘leak’ the information to the nobles in order to hinder their scheming?"

Celestia nodded. "Precisely."

 Luna stroked her chin with a hoof. "Hmmm… maybe We could send him Our fi…"

“No fire sword, Luna.”

"Fie on you, then. But what will We offer King Thorax in exchange for this favor?"

"I'm sure I can come to an agreement with Thorax. His new hive would have many needs. I’m sure he would offer the use of some of the more experienced drones of his hive in exchange," Celestia confessed. "The important thing is to prevent the nobles from discovering Blueblood is recovering in Ponyville. I'm sure this plan could be just what we need," Celestia continued. The glow from her horn increased and, in a flash, sent the letter to the King with a teleportation spell. "I just hope that Thorax reads the letter in time."

"His kingdom has not been calm as of late. I'm worried he may be very busy," Luna warned her sister. "In the meantime, We shall keep Our ears up in the event more nobles try to start new rumors of Blueblood. Perhaps We can use some of Our own guards to seed disinformation, sowing discord in their ranks. That should buy Us more time."

"I would advise against using that draconequus’s name while He may be floating about,” Celestia warned. “It’s still better to have more than one option, after all." As soon as she finished she let out a large yawn and instinctively ruffled her feathered wings.

"The hour grows late, sister. Off to bed with you. We shall deal with the rest from here," Luna said to her. "We shall send a messenger if We receive a reply from King Thorax before you awake."

"Thank you, Luna. Goodnight." Celestia gave her a nuzzle before heading to bed.

"Goodnight, sister," Luna replied.

Once Celestia had gone, Luna picked up the medical report that Dr. Caliber had given her not long ago. She had wanted to visit the dream realm of her nephew but, with so many events happening so fast, she knew that if she visited his dreams now the only thing she would encounter is a tangle of memories that would prove to be too complex for her to unravel. Now that she finally had time to visit his dreams, a new problem had arrived. This had caused Luna to put her efforts on hold once again.With a sigh of defeat, Luna conceded that she could not help him in his dreams. So, for now, she needed to choose a new path. She cast her eyes out across the vast expanse of her night to watch her precious stars twinkle and dance in the sky.

I'm sorry, dear nephew. Tonight I will not be able to ease your dreams. Please be patient. Your time will soon come but perhaps I may help you in some other way tonight.

Luna extended her wings and took flight into the sky. With a glow of her horn she transformed into a shadowy mist. Her new mission objective lay at the Upper Crust mansion.
> The School of Friendship (Edited By Mr. W, GT4 And CC)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day, just as she had promised, Starlight had come to pick up Blueblood after his class and bring him with her to Twilight’s school so that they could continue their magic lessons. It was something that both of them were looking forward to, both to relieve boredom and to learn (or teach) magic.

After a long walk past Twilight’s castle, the two finally reached a very impressive school that looked almost like a castle. The school itself bore Twilight’s cutie mark on a shield above the courtyard, and the entrance had a stained glass window image of her, with a split waterfall on either side of the door, offering a welcoming sight for students and newcomers alike.

Blue gave a low whistle in admiration. "Okay, that is impressive.”

"I know, right?” Starlight replied with a proud smile. “It's a school made and managed by one of the five princesses of Equestria, so of course it needed to be impressive. It’s not like anypony would sign up to join a school that looked tiny and plain," she said as she walked up to the entrance.

Blueblood paused and tilted his head at her. “What about Ponyville’s schoolhouse?”

Starlight blinked and thought about what she said. “...Huh, I suppose you’re right there. Well, anyway, are you ready for the tour?”

"As ready as I'll ever be," Blueblood answered.

Starlight chuckled at that. "There’s nothing to be worried about, I promise. You’re gonna love this place." With a dramatic swirl of magic, she opened the door and let him see the inside.

Okay, this is awesome, Blueblood thought. It’s basically Hogwarts!

Blueblood stepped past the gate’s threshold and gazed around at the school’s courtyard in sheer awe. The entrance opened up to a wide open garden with a stream flowing through the middle. A small island with a fountain on it stood in the middle of the stream, with several bridges going across it. Multiple teenaged and young adult students milled about, chatting amicably in groups and moving onto their next classes. Blueblood would’ve kept staring in wonder had it not been for him stumbling into something fluffy, snapping him back to reality.

"Hey, watch it!" the prince heard a voice say. When he looked up, his jaw dropped in surprise at the sight of a blue griffin holding his head in pain.

"You’re…you’re…!" Blueblood stammered, his lips curling up in unabashed joy.

"Oh, Gallus, I'm sorry for that," Starlight said as she walked toward them. "I was just showing him around the school."

"You're a cat-bird!" Blueblood finally managed to say in complete euphoria.

"C-cat bird?!" Gallus glared at him in anger.

Blueblood stood up and began trotting around Gallus as if he was a wonder of the world. "You’re so big, and blue! You're like a big blue cat-bird --- the tail, the feathers." He lifted one of Gallus’s claws with a hoof. "My entire face fits in your claw!" he exclaimed like a kid at Hearth’s Warming Eve, which was apt considering that he used to be obsessed with griffons when he was young. Well, younger.

Needless to say, Gallus quickly got uncomfortable with all the attention and jerked his claw back. "Okay, okay, enough of that!" he said, backing away from the lunatic unicorn. "What’s the matter with you? Never seen a griffin before?"

"Nope," Blueblood answered.

"...Excuse me, what?" Gallus tilted his head to the side, not expecting that answer at all.

"Ugh, I should’ve seen this coming…” Starlight muttered to herself. She stepped up to Gallus and put a hoof on Blueblood’s shoulder. “I'm sorry, Gallus. Please forgive him, he’s lost his memory and the world around him is still pretty new right now."

"And it just got awesome!" Blueblood cheered. "Oh please, please, pleeeeease tell me that there are more like you."

Gallus blinked twice and relaxed slightly, nodding in understanding. "Oh, you bet, kid. Also, just a friendly reminder, I’m a griffon, not a 'cat-bird'. Griffin, got it?"

"Got it, Mister Gallus!"

Gallus rolled his eyes. "Hey, none of that ‘mister’ stuff, I'm not that old," he grumped.

"Sorry."

"Hey, Gallus, you coming or what?" somepony called. When the prince glanced behind Gallus, he gasped when he saw a yak, an orange dragon, a light blue changeling, and a light pink hippogriff (although only the yak and dragon were easily recognizable to him).

Almost immediately, Blueblood scurried towards them. "Wow, you’re like Spike, only bigger," he said to the dragon, before looking at the yak. "Your fur looks so big and fluffy canIpleasepetit?!”

Oh, Faust, he’s channeling Pinkie… Starlight rolled her eyes.

Before the female yak had time to answer, he went to the hippogriff. "You look like Princess Celestia, but with a beak and claws!"

He finally zipped over to the changeling, skidding to a stop on his two front hooves and causing her to step back in mild fear. "And you look like a giant ladybug or a butterfly!" he exclaimed, hopping in circles around them and making them all confused (and somewhat uncomfortable), minus the hippogriff who just chuckled.

“Aw, this one’s cute, let’s keep him,” she giggled.

"Oh, great...Silverstream, did you bring one of your family members here and not tell us?" the dragon groaned, rolling her eyes and looking at the hippogriff.

The hippogriff, Silverstream, shook her head and shrugged. "No Smolder, but whoever he is, I like him already, he seems like fun."

"Ummm, I'm not a ladybug," the Changeling muttered with a blush that made her face look as red as her elytra. “But thanks for the compliment.”

"You need to speak up, Ocellus," Smolder reminded her. "Otherwise he isn’t gonna hear you."

"You can pet Yona’s fur,” the yak yelled in happiness (and confidence). “All yaks have best fur!”

"Yep, kind of like that," Smolder snarked, pointing to Yona.

Blueblood was about to go pet Yona when Starlight caught him with her magic and levitated him away from the group, walking towards them with a truly mortified and embarrassed look on her face. "I'm so sorry for all that, guys. I didn't think about how he would react upon seeing other races that he has no memory of."

The prince finally managed to calm down and realized what he was doing. He looked down in shame and kicked at the ground. "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to startle all of you," he apologized "It's just...all of you look so awesome! I mean, two days ago I thought ponies and dragons were the only living beings on the planet. I had no idea that there were even more races."

"What did you mean, 'he has no memory’?" Smolder asked. "Didn't his parents ever tell him what a dragon is?"

"If they did, I forgot," Blueblood explained with a shake of his head.

"It's a long story, but the short version is that something bad happened to him recently, and that’s why he doesn't know anything. That’s why he was so surprised just a moment ago."

"Oh, so that explains why he was acting like Silverstream for a second there," Smolder said in understanding. "He's just like a fish out of water."

"I'm really sorry for getting carried away," Blueblood apologized again.

"Ah, don't sweat it, kid. I know how awesome a dragon is, after all," Smolder replied with a smug smirk, and held out a claw. "Name's Smolder, by the way."

Yona pushed Smolder away to be in front of Blueblood, much to the dragon’s annoyance. "Yona is best yak. Yona happy to meet new pony!" she yelled, giving him a big strong hug. Her fur began to tickle his nose, which caused Starlight to gasp in horror and teleport him next to her to cover his nose before he sneezed.

"Ahhh...thank you," Blueblood murmured as the hippogriff flew toward him.

"Hi, my name’s Silverstream! I’m a hippogriff, and I'm sooo happy to meet you, and don't feel too bad, I completely understand how you feel. I get excited all the time! In fact, do you want to see something incredible?"

She was about to touch her necklace when Gallus stopped her. "Not now, Silver. I think the kid has had enough excitement for one day."

"Okay," she relented.

The changeling stepped forward and lifted a hoof to her chest. "Hello there, my name is Ocellus, and I'm a changeling," she said with a demure smile. "Please don’t refer to me as an insect, though.”

Blueblood winced. "Sorry, I didn't mean to offend you."

"N-No, it’s okay, I understand, you didn't know and these wings could make anyone get confused," she admitted with a smile. "I can change them if you want."

"Whoa, you can do that?"

She nodded and closed her eyes for a moment, but before anything could happen, a loud bell rang, signaling a new period.

"And that bell means the class is about to begin," Gallus noted. "We better hurry and find Sandbar." He turned to Blueblood as the group began to trickle back into class. "You coming kid?”

"Oh no, sorry, I'm just here to tour my cousin's school, but it was very nice to meet you," Blueblood replied, waving goodbye.

"Well, okay then. Have fun, and look for us if you stay for recess," Smolder said as they all waved goodbye to Blueblood.

After they left, Starlight glanced down at Blueblood and patted him on the head. "Glad to see you’re making new friends," she said with a smile. "Although, you should try to contain yourself a little more in the future."

"I know, but it was just so incredible seeing so many cool races all at once, I just couldn't stop myself," he replied with a blush.

Starlight chuckled. "It's okay. Considering your situation it's completely understandable." She opened the door to one of the buildings of the school and led him down a hallway. "It’ll be a while before their lessons end, what do you say to you and I doing some more magic in the meantime?"

"Advanced magic too?" he asked eagerly.

"Of course! A promise is a promise, right?"

"Yay!" Blueblood exclaimed as they headed to Starlight’s office.





Using some incense to calm the mind, both the prince and Starlight sat in front of each other with their eyes closed and their horns shining. The curtains were half-closed, allowing only a little brightness into the room so as to not distract her young pupil.

"Can you hear me, New Blood?" Starlight asked, but instead of using her voice, she was instead projecting her voice through her horn in a form of telepathy, resulting in it coming out with an echo.

"…Yes," Blueblood managed to say in the same fashion as a smile started to form on his face.

"Your connection is breaking. Focus, New Blood."

"Sorry." Blueblood's expression returned to normal.

"Now, this is the final part of the spell. While keeping your mind clear, I want you to picture yourself expanding until you detect me."

"Expanding?"

"Yes; in this state, your magic aura is borrowing from the five senses of your body to act as a beacon. The astral perception spell allows the user to perceive everything around its area of magic as if it was its own body. So if you remain calm, the manipulation of the field can be expanded easily."

"What’s the radius this spell can reach, Starlight?"

"It depends on how large a magic pool the user has, as well as how much they can keep their focus on the task. Just remember, whatever you do, don't force yourself. If you start to feel dizzy or tired, stop immediately. Otherwise, you might start to feel your mana overheating in your horn, and trust me, it’s not a pleasant sensation."

"Understood."

Starlight began to shift her body around, but never once opened her eyes or lost her focus. "Now, extend your aura," she instructed once again.

Blueblood complied, and his mind soon began mapping her office as he expanded his magic field like a balloon, leaving a clear black and white image in his head. However, he detected nothing in front of him. His mouth morphed into a slight frown, and he tilted his head to the side, feeling a presence that visualized itself in his mind as a pink dot.

Behind him.

"I think I found you, Starlight," Blueblood intoned.

“Oh? Where am I, then?”

“Behind me...about a meter?”

Starlight smiled and moved closer to him, the dot in Blueblood’s mind moving to match her. "You did it, New Blood. I can feel your magic reaching me." She came to a stop in front of him. “Now, exhale and relax. In...out. In...out.”

The prince followed her motions and soon the spell ended. He opened his eyes to see a very happy and proud Starlight looking at him. "How’d I do, Starlight?"

Starlight ruffled his mane. "You were incredible, New Blood. You’ve just earned yourself a cookie."

"Really?" he asked happily as he stood up, only to wobble as he came up, forcing Starlight to assist him.

"Yes, really. I was intending to just give you a spell to help with your writing lessons, and then start you on with the more advanced version of it, but with each thing I teach you, it’s like you absorb it like a sponge to water," she answered, beaming with happiness. "Keep this up, and I might teach you how to levitate yourself.”

"Wait, that’s something I can do?" Blueblood asked incredulously. “That’s awesome!”

"Oh, hohoho, don't get ahead of yourself just yet, mister. That is an extremely advanced spell to learn, and we are still going through the basics. Even I have trouble keeping it up for extended periods of time. So, for now, let's play it safe and go with simpler stuff, okay? Trust me, it's for your own good."

"Okay, Starlight," Blueblood replied, slightly disappointed but understanding of the warning.

Putting the incense away and opening the curtains once more, Starlight checked the clock and saw that it wasn’t too late in the day yet. "Hmmm, I think there’s one more period left before the day ends. Do you want to go see some of the students’ lessons?" she asked.

"Sure, sounds like fun," he replied, following her out of the room.

She led him down several hallways and a staircase, eventually stopping at Fluttershy’s class. Peering inside, Blueblood could see that all the curtains were closed and the lights were off, plunging the room in complete darkness. As Blueblood’s eyes adjusted to the new lighting, he could see Fluttershy’s form at the head of the room, where she was teaching several students how to approach nocturnal animals.

"…Now, one common nocturnal friend I want you all to meet is the bat," Fluttershy was saying as she opened a small cage. A group of bats immediately flew out and around the room, scaring the students for a moment.

"Don’t be afraid, kids, the bats are very misunderstood creatures that, like a bird, can be approached and petted if you prove to them that they can trust you," she assured them, lifting some fruits for the bats as bait.

Following her example, her students did the same, holding up the pieces of fruit their teacher had provided for them. One of the bats flew towards Blueblood out of curiosity and landed in front of him, giving him a chirp in greeting. Blueblood grinned and gently scratched the bat behind the ear, causing it to nuzzle his hoof affectionately.

Fluttershy noticed that one of her bats was missing and looked around, spotting the stray bat as Blueblood petted it. She smiled as she approached them. "Oh hello, New Blood. What are you doing here? Is something wrong?"

"I'm just showing him around the school," Starlight explained, which eased Fluttershy’s concerns.

"Oh, I'm glad to hear that," Fluttershy said, and then looked down at the bat with a giggle as it chirped contentedly. "Miss Batty said that she likes how you pet behind her ear," she translated for Blueblood.

"I'm glad she is," he said with a smile, and then an idea crossed his mind. "Isn't this a lovely night, my ladies? As the moon bathes us all in her glorious light, the children of the night avaken and greet us vith their lovely songs," he recited in a solemn voice and a raised head, confusing both mares.

"Uh, New Blood, why are you talking like Dracolt?" Fluttershy asked, when suddenly she heard some wolves howling in the distance. Startled, she looked at one of the closed windows before looking back at Blueblood with a raised eyebrow. He simply chuckled at the perfect timing.





Unfortunately,after leaving Fluttershy’s class, Starlight discovered that there were few classes still in session due to the time, which severely limited their destinations. Fortunately, Rainbow Dash's class was still in session, and to top it off, all five friends the prince had made earlier were there too, doing some teamwork exercises.

"It's too bad that all the other lessons were already over," Blueblood said in disappointment.

"Don't be sad, we can always come back tomorrow and see them," Starlight reminded him as they entered the gym. "Besides, I think you’re gonna like this."

When they both entered the spacious gym, they saw large rings hanging from the ceiling big enough for a pegasus to pass through with little trouble, as well as all the regular equipment. All the students inside were currently playing a variation of tag, using a ball to catch who would be the next one that was it, and having fun.

Wow, this must be where they play their equivalent of quidditch, Blueblood thought, taking a couple steps away from Starlight to admire the place. Dash, who was watching over the students, landed next to Blueblood with a grin as the game continued.

"You’re mine now, Yona!" Smolder yelled as she threw the ball at her yak friend, while Yona tried her best to escape.

"Yona best runner! Yona will escape!" She ran as fast as she could, but ended up tripping on her own hair and sliding across the floor on a collision course with Blueblood.

Gallus backpedaled and gasped when he saw what was happening. "Look out!" he shouted at Blueblood in alarm, but it was too late. Yona was practically on top of him at this point, and escape was impossible. The prince, fearing for his life, reacted out of pure reflex.

Igniting his horn and jumping backward, he propelled his body into the air and, to the amazement and shock of all those present, somehow performed a triple backflip in the air, landing on his hooves with the precision of a cat away from Yona. The unfortunate yak slid past him and smashed into the wall behind Blueblood with a muffled yelp. Adding insult to injury, the ball hit her head.

However, nopony bothered to check Yona, since she had not only survived much harder impacts before, but was also walking off her tumble as if nothing had happened. Instead, everypony was staring at the prince, who suddenly felt even smaller than usual, and wished he could crawl under the floorboards in embarrassment.

How did I do that? It was almost like that time...

He stared at his hoof and recalled all those lessons from Hell his dad forced him to do as he was growing up in an attempt to “purge” the love he had for video games, comics, and superheroes. Had he still had his fists, he would’ve squeezed them in anger at the memories; instead, he glared at his hoof in such a way that would’ve melted stone. Hours upon hours of learning new things, each more exhausting and painful than the last.

He never truly wanted to do all those activities, but his father insisted, and tried to hammer into his head that being a “hero” would only result in more pain. When that didn’t work, it was because his father wanted him to work his body until he was close to death. When even that failed to stop him from being the way he was, his father forced him to continue working so that his college application would look more presentable for the sports teams. It was Hell. It was worse than Hell.

And yet, despite not having done them in years, he seemed to still remember the moves, as he had just shown every single creature who now occupied the gym.

My body…still remembers? Is this some kind of muscle memory? No, it was definitely way better than any backflip I ever did. And I swear somehow I used magic too, but what did I use, and how exactly? Putting all of that aside, I'm a quadruped now. For all intents and purposes, I just did the impossible. 

"That...was...AMAZING!!" Silverstream squealed suddenly, appearing in front of him. "Yona was like ‘aww!’, and you were like ‘nooo!’, and then your body just went ‘swoosh!’ and then you landed right there! How did you make all those flips without any wings? What’s your secret?!"

"I…I don't know, I just r-reacted," Blueblood stuttered in complete honesty.

"Well, that was pretty impressive," Smolder commented with a smirk, crossing her arms. "And here I thought doing that type of cool stuff was a pegasus thing. Who knew you unicorns could use your horns like that too?"

"Yona is sorry for almost flattening new friend," Yona said with shame as she approached the prince.

"It’s okay, Yona; it was just an accident. Besides, it was my fault too, I shouldn't have walked too close to your game." He nuzzled her side. "I forgive you."

"Yona happy now!" she yelled with a smile and lightly stomped the floor, causing a skinny unicorn stallion several meters away to fly up ten feet into the air from the force of the impact. His pegasus marefriend quickly caught him.

"Be honest, you just used that apology to have an excuse to pet her fur, didn't you?" Gallus asked with a smirk.

"Why not both?" Blueblood replied with a smile, making everypony chuckle.

"Yona fur, best yak fur!"

Meanwhile, not too far from them, Rainbow and Starlight watched as the students all began asking Blueblood questions about how he did what he did. Rainbow smirked and put a hoof to her chest. "Ha! Am I cool or what? Just being near me and the kid’s already Mr. Popular," she crowed.

"Rainbow, did you see that jump?" Starlight asked, her brow furrowed in deep thought.

"What? That awesome backflip?"

"Exactly. That flawlessly-executed triple back flip," Starlight emphasized, looking at her. "How is it possible for a colt that had trouble walking not that long ago manage to do a move only professional athletes could perform? It makes no sense, and I’m hesitant to say it, it’s almost unnatural, given how old he is. He would’ve needed years and years to get at that level." She looked back at Blueblood. “And his horn…”

“What about it?”

“He used magic during that flip, I felt it,” Starlight explained. “And yet I’ve only just begun teaching him the very basics! Somehow he tapped into his magic and used it to help him do that flip, but I don’t know what spell he used or how he did it that fast. It’s impossible. No unicorn athlete I know of has ever used a spell to perform better, nor have I ever heard of such a spell.”

Rainbow put a hoof to her chin. “Maybe he remembered something?”

Starlight’s face scrunched up. “Maybe...gah, this is all so confusing!”

Rainbow shrugged. "Hey, don’t sweat it, Starlight. He could just be a prodigy."

Starlight shook her head vehemently. "No. Doing one flip could be attributed to natural talent. Doing a triple flip is being trained. Doing it with magic is just insanity. The only way his body could do such a move instantly and subconsciously is by having muscle memory, and the only way for that to happen is for him to have gone through rigorous training. Training that he could not possibly have had at his age."

Rainbow rolled her eyes. "Geez, Starlight, you’ve been reading too many of Spike’s comic books, it's starting to affect that egg head of yours. Let the kid have his fun, and if that means being awesome and having some incredible moves, then what's the problem?" she asked, before leaving to approach the group as well.

Starlight, meanwhile, stood alone near the gym’s entrance, watching Blueblood with both intrigue and, to her chagrin, a little suspicion. She was so proud of him, and yet...something wasn’t right here.

How did you do that, New Blood?
> Secret Agenda (Edited by TS, GT4 And CC)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once school was over, Starlight and Blueblood returned to the castle, and the rest of the evening was spent by him telling Twilight and Spike how things went and how much fun he had at school.

When he was finished, Twilight smiled and said, "I'm so glad that you enjoyed your visit.”

"Yeah, it was great!” Blueblood nodded. “But that makes me wonder, why didn't you let me go there instead of sending me to Miss Cheerilee's school? Are you ashamed of me?"

"What? No, of course not! It's just…" She sighed. "Look, New Blood, I understand what you’re saying, but unfortunately, my school isn’t what you need at the moment. My friends and I teach about friendship exclusively, and you need more than just that. That’s why it was necessary for you to go to Miss Cheerilee's class, because she can teach you subjects I can't."

Spike nodded in agreement. "Yeah, what she said. I mean, sure, Twilight's school looks cool and is awesome, but if you don't know how to read and write, you would have had a hard time there."

"I see," Blueblood replied, although he looked a little blue.

"Hey, cheer up, New Blood," Starlight said with a gentle nudge in his shoulder. "You can still go visit, remember? There are still a lot of things I can teach you, and, like today, we can go visit some other lessons."

"You think so?" Blueblood asked, looking up at her.

"I know so," Starlight replied. "Today we might have gotten a bit carried away, but tomorrow I'm sure we can do a lot more."

"That’ll be great! I would love to hang out more with Gallus and the others!" Blueblood said with a smile.

"But only if you don't get in the way of their own activities," Twilight reminded him.

"Oh relax, Twilight, I'm sure everything will be fine," said Starlight.

Spike looked at her with a deadpan expression, before sighing and walking away, muttering about the universe having spies everywhere.

As soon as Spike left they heard a bell ring, and when they looked up they saw a clock in the wall announcing the hour of midnight. "Oh, ponyfeathers, it's already this late?" Twilight murmured.

"Looks like that story of yours really made time fly, eh New Blood?" Starlight asked with a chuckle as she ruffled up Blueblood’s mane.

"We better all go to bed now; we all have work to do tomorrow morning and we wouldn't want to be sleepy,” Twilight announced as the three of them left for their respective rooms.

"I'm not going to argue against a nice good night's sleep," Blueblood mentioned as he followed her.

Just before he reached his room, however, Starlight reached out and placed a hoof on his shoulder. "New Blood, please wait."

Blueblood craned his neck towards her. "Yes?"

She sighed. "Listen, I'm not going to probe into your life because I promised Twilight I wouldn’t do it," she began, causing his body to tense. "But I wouldn’t be doing my job as a counselor if I didn't at least tell you this: whatever you’re dealing with, you can share with us." Her lips curled upwards into an understanding smile. "I know that this might be scary, and that you’re probably thinking that it's best to keep what’s going on in your head to yourself, but trust me, you won't feel better until you let go of whatever it is you’re holding onto."

"I...d-don't know what you mean, Starlight," Blueblood said with some measure of nervousness.

Starlight's smile disappeared and she let out a short, resigned sigh. "Fair enough, I won’t press the issue," she replied, and turned to leave. "Just know that it’ll keep getting worse the more you keep quiet," she warned him.

He glanced to the floor in contemplation of her words. "Really I'm okay. There’s nothing to talk about."

Starlight did not believe him for an instant, but she kept her word and nodded. "Then I’ll see you tomorrow. Goodnight, New Blood."

"Goodnight, Starlight," he responded in kind, watching her leave. When she was out of sight, he touched his necklace, and became his true size once again. "I'm sorry..." he whispered to himself, feeling a small tear crawl down his cheek. "But if you knew the truth, you would just scream and run from me." After waiting a moment to compose himself, he headed straight for the kitchen.

No more sidetracking...

Once there, he inspected the cabinets until he found just what he was looking for. He removed a roll of plastic wrap and a nearly-empty cereal box, and then walked back to his room. It's time to get to work.

He grabbed a knife from the kitchen, then quickly headed to the library and borrowed some masking tape, before finally heading back to his room. Once there, he closed and locked the door, and began his project.

After eating the contents of the cereal box as a late-night snack, he proceeded to cut the front and back of the box, making a hole in both, and then placed a piece of the plastic wrap in-between the two pieces. Finally, he stuck them together with tape, creating a transparent frame for him to use.

Once that was done, he opened the book where he had written the two alphabets in the previous night and started to concentrate on the other spell Starlight taught him, remembering her lesson.

"If you focus, your magic can be tangible energy for a bit. If you visualize what you’re writing in front of you, letters can easily appear. By holding said letters and placing them on a surface, they can remain in there, hidden to the naked eye until you place a little magic on them again, and they will show. Like secret messages."

As his horn glowed, the letters started to float and he then translated them into the frame, making it shine brightly for a second before returning to normal. Panting, the prince took the frame and put it in front of the word 'ghost' in his notebook. Once reflected, the frame revealed the word but this time in English, making the prince smirk and chuckle at his new invention.

Equestria, meet your equivalent of Google Translate.

Satisfied with his work, and once he made sure that there was no one in the hallway, the prince took his pencil and notebook and made his way to the library once more. Turning on the lights and going straight to the 'G' section, he inspected the bookshelves with his new invention, which allowed him to see the titles in perfect English.

Okay, let's see here…”Ghost Towns”, “Ghost Writers”, “Ghost Stories”, “Histories and Origins of Ghosts”, “Ghost Projection Spells”, “Ghostly Magic Residues”, “Ghost...Food”?

He raised an eyebrow at the last one. Must be a diet thing.

He kept scanning until he found the books he was looking for. “Classification and Habitats of Ghosts”, and “Detection of the Paranormal: How To Exorcise and Completely Eradicate a Ghost”. The last book made the prince flinch and gulp. It was like he was seeing a guillotine specially made for him, face to face. Nevertheless, he steeled his nerves and took the book along with the other two.

As much as it scared him, he knew that the third book could be used against him if he was discovered, but more importantly, there was also a chance that it could hold a clue into how to get out of the possession without killing him or his host. With a determined look, he took the dreadful book alongside the other two, before continuing exploring the bookshelf.

“Preventing Possession”? Kind of late for that one. “Repealing the Undead”? Oh boy, I hope I was the only one that came here. Hey, what’s this one? Blueblood raised an eyebrow at one book whose title caught him off guard. “Times and Adventures of My Beloved Ghost”?

Ponies were weird.

He kept inspecting the book, not really understanding its meaning. A pony became friends with a ghost? If so, maybe there’s still a chance for me. Blueblood smiled and opened the book at a random page intrigued into what was the story behind the book.



“…Mary Ann took a shaky step into the mansion once more as she had done too many times in the past, and with each step she gained more determination as she approached the chambers of her beloved. In there she saw him standing in the middle of the room, admiring the full moon as its light bathed him like a spotlight for the world to see. At the sound of his door opening, he looked back and their eyes met. She was scared and he was nervous, both of them knew they were worlds apart, yet their passion was impossible to ignore. With determination, The Baron took a step forward and caressed her cheek. His hoof was cold yet comfortable. Mary Ann could feel her heart race as he started to move his hoof lower and lower until his ghostly hoof grabbed and got a firm grip of her…”



WHOA-HO-HO, NOPE! Immediately Blueblood closed the book, his face as red as a tomato with steam escaping his ears. He tried his best to ignore what he just read.

Yep, ponies were definitely weird.

How did THIS end up here?! Twilight, come on, kids could have reached this book with ease! Blueblood stared at the book in alarm before looking at a picture of Twilight on a coffee table, glaring at it. "If I wasn't on a secret mission right now, you and I would be having a serious talk," he whispered at the portrait, putting the scandalous book away (much higher on the shelf this time) and continuing his work.

Unfortunately, there weren't any other books that could help him with what he needed. So, deciding he was finished, he took the two that were his best bet and went to a podium to start reading, starting with the one about classifications.



"Ghosts, also known as specters, are the stubborn undead beings that refuse to move onto the afterlife. Low-level unholy creatures whose only purpose is to spread misery and eat the flesh of who they possess.”



Wait, WHAT?!

Blueblood looked at his body in alarm. Am I…eating this pony?! Oh God, I need to get out of him before it's too late! Shivering, he returned to his reading:



"Their classification can be divided into ten levels, with Level One being the weakest and easy to repel, and Level Ten being the most dangerous there is. In such cases, the Elements of Harmony must be used to eradicate the ghost immediately.

"Level One: the Shaker/Poltergeist --- No intelligence whatsoever, and like the name implies, only able to shake small objects like plates and glasses. Dangers: miniscule and minor, as they are mere annoyances at worst. Use salt to burn them."



Blueblood shivered at the idea of him burning alive a second time.



“Level Two: the Trickster/Clown Ghost/Troll Ghost --- Known for always laughing in a low voice and making objects float and change places. It's unknown if they are conscious of what they’re doing or, like the Shaker, just do things out of instinct, but oftentimes their actions can be viewed as some sort of prank. Use salt to burn them.

“Level Three: the Banshee --- Always screaming or weeping, and mostly found in cemeteries. They are the last remaining emotion of a sorrowful soul that fears death. It's uncommon for them to attack ponies unless their resting place is disturbed, in which case, they will hunt the responsible one relentlessly. DO NOT engage with, anger, or mock them. Their screech can be deadly, and in the worst cases you would turn it into a level four ghost. Don't use salt. Instead, say a prayer to Faust and light a candle for it to follow and burn like a moth to flame.”



“Well…so much for being kind to them…” he whispered, almost feeling sorry for the ponies and how their only solution with ghosts was to immediately seek them out and destroy them.

Almost. The level of detail in this book was still disturbing.

He began to turn the pages more rapidly.



”Level Four: the Raging Ghost --- The result of fools messing with the paranormal or a soldier dying in a battle full of regrets. Warning: this ghost is far more intelligent than Levels One through Three and knows how to fight. They can possess hollow armor and multiple weapons at the same time, and they will attack anypony that gets near their territory. Oftentimes found in abandoned castles that were the target of battles or wars. Unlike the others, this ghost retains their original bodies at the time of their death and can even speak some words, oftentimes some sort of insult or a swear word. Trick them into walking into a circle of salt to capture them, and then strike them down with a sword bathed in Dawn Water* (see page 96) to eliminate.

“Level Five: the Druid Ghost --- Can possess animals, evil intentions when alive…kill with a Dawn weapon…

“Level Six: the Baron --- Can turn solid for periods of time. Don't look them in the eyes, because it can hypnotise…kill with Dawn weapon…

“Level Seven: the Elemental --- Possesses one of the four elements…travel long distances…force him into Dawn Land to eliminate…

“Level Eight: the Nightmare --- Feed on fear…traps victims in dungeons and takes the form of their worst nightmare. Only advice: escape the dungeon by spraying Dawn Water into the walls, then destroy the structure…

“Level Nine: the Mimic --- Can shapeshift into tangible objects and possess whoever touches it…feeds on their life energy…destroy their current possession to destroy…

“Level Ten…”



Blueblood froze and stared at the last classification entry in horror and alarm. His eyes widened, and try as he might, he could not look away from the words before him.



“Level Ten: the Possessed --- Maximum level of danger. The unholy union of Demons and Nightmares. This monster can possess any living being without a problem, and destroy both the victim and their loved ones slowly until there is nothing but dust. Extremely intelligent and capable of fooling even a family member. Very difficult to destroy; all previous methods of destruction are inefficient on them, since they can adapt and find out how to avoid the dangers quickly. Dawn weapons do not work because they use the victim's body as a vessel. If encountered, DO NOT let it know that you’ve discovered its identity, and contact Princess Celestia as fast as you can. The Elements of Harmony are the only thing that can destroy it without harming the host.”



The prince backed away from the podium and promptly sat down on the floor, holding his head in fear. “I'm...I’m a Level Ten...I'm the most dangerous of them all. Am I…am I feeding off everyone I meet? Oh, dear God, the princesses...those children...Starlight! What have I been doing to them?!” he whispered harshly, his hooves shaking. Then he shook his head, trying to regain some semblance of bravery. “No! I refuse. I will not become a parasite! I would rather jump into an entire barrel of salt before letting anyone else suffer. This book is probably old, since it said to contact Celestia for the Elements, so maybe it was written before Nightmare Moon. Yes, that’s it.”

Convincing himself that the book was just a little out of date, he put the book away and opened the other one, hoping to find more clues.



"There are four effective methods to exorcise a ghost from a pony or an object, the first and most efficient one being the Elements of Harmony, which would burn the monster immediately."



Well, that wasn’t going to happen anytime soon, he hoped.



"The second method is using the Soul Divider spell* (page 56). Take note: if the caster has the ghost inside, it can't be performed on itself, since the specter will immediately cancel in self-defense. It must be used by a second unicorn."



So, I need a unicorn I can trust to cast it. Starlight, maybe? Okay, let’s see how this one goes.

Blueblood flipped to page fifty-six and started reading the details of the incantation, right until the point where it said that, if successful, the ghost will be exposed to the Elements of Harmony and will burn as a result of the spell.

So, the spell not only will yank me out, it will also burn me out. No thank you.



“The third method would be a dream duel, where, with the assistance of Princess Luna or some herbal teas, the victim would confront the ghost in their dreams and destroy it from there.” 



Blueblood stopped and looked at his reflection on a nearby window. "Okay, I know you’re probably angry at me right now, but I'm trying to make things right here, sooo no need to fight, okay? Look, there’s still the fourth option. Let's see what it says."

Shaking his head, he returned to the book.



"The fourth and final option is a special potion* (page 87) that can expel the specter. Warning: once out, there is a window of time before the ghost goes back into its host or possesses another, so you must…”



That’s it! Blueblood cheered as he quickly flipped to the needed page and, using his notebook, wrote down all the ingredients on it.

Finally, a silver lining. I can use this to get out of your body, and once out, I’ll just have to find a way to possess something else, and we’ll both be free, Blueblood. Just hang in there, buddy, we almost have a solution.

The door creaked, and whatever color Blueblood had in his face drained away and his eyes widened.

"Twilight?"

Spike’s voice nearly caused Blueblood to have a heart attack as he closed the book and made a mad dash behind a nearby sofa, just in time for Spike to enter the room. In his scared state, the prince realized now that he not only left the book on the podium, but had also kept the lights on.

This was sooooo not good...

The young dragon rubbed the sleep from his eyes and looked around the library, confused and looking for the princess "Twilight?” he called again. “You here?"

Please don't see me, please don't see me, please don't see me... Blueblood chanted in his head, begging for a miracle as he heard the steps of the dragon approaching.

"I swear, I heard somepony muttering in here," Spike mused as he looked around with a yawn. Eventually, he noticed the book on the podium, but instead of inspecting it, the prince only heard Spike sigh. When peeking from his hiding place, Blueblood saw the dragon shaking his head.

"Greeeat, she's sleep-learning again..." he grumbled, picking the book up in his claws. “I’m gonna have to ask Zecora to up the strength of those sleeping potions again tomorrow. Dang things don’t work as advertised.” He quickly put the book back into the bookshelf and then left the room with another yawn, turning off the lights as he went.

Signing in relief, the prince held his chest and tried to keep his poor heart from evacuating his rib cage in a fit of fright while he took several deep breaths. The moment he managed to relax, he stood up again and looked at the entrance where Spike left.

Okay, that was too close...

Stifling a yawn of his own, the prince realized that it was late, and that if he kept going, he was going to have a hard time keeping himself awake, his most recent scare notwithstanding. He could already feel his eyes closing.

Damn it, I’ve used too many spells for far too long. I'm at my limit.

He had to shake his head once more before heading to his room. Once there, he hid his notebook and invention in his saddlebag before going to bed with a satisfied smile on his face.

One step closer to solving this problem once and for all. Don’t worry, Blueblood, you’ll be free soon.
> Luna, The Guardian Night Princess (Edited by RB, GT4 And CC)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Blueblood woke up to the sounds of typing and the clicking of mouse buttons. Blinking dumbly for a moment, he looked down and found himself in his human body typing on a computer, and around him was an office cubicle. Confused, Blueblood stopped what he was doing and tried to leave, but just as he took two steps from his desk, something yanked on his left arm. Looking down, he saw a thick chain tied to a manacle on his wrist, which pulled him back to his desk and forced him to sit down.

The manacle and chain weren’t there before. What was going on?

"And just where do you think you’re going?" The voice of his father boomed in the distance, sounding distorted and echoing in the air.

"I-I wanted to leave."

"Leave?” His father chuckled sinisterly. “Oh no, you can't leave now." More chains appeared, each attached to a new manacle or clamp on the prince’s body. They forced his body forward like a puppet, his hands moving to the keyboard and mouse. "There’s still so much work to be done. Too much unfinished business!" The room erupted into fire, as everything around him started to shake. "Did you forget already? You need to take responsibility for your actions."

Before Blueblood’s eyes, the computer transformed into a cage, with a sleeping pony inside it, whose colors had faded. Looking closer, Blueblood realized in horror that it was him. "N-No!" he whispered.

"Yes!" his father bellowed.

The prince in the cage suddenly burst into flames. The pony woke up and screamed in terror, before looking at his human counterpart and rushing to the metal bars, begging for help. Blueblood tried to reach for him, but the chains prevented him from getting close enough, and he could only watch as the pony screamed once more as the flames claimed him, turning him to ash.

He couldn't even grab the ashes as they fell. His surroundings changed from an office cubicle to a dark void, and now the chains were forcing him to walk in the massive palm of someone’s hand. Looking down, he saw that he was once again in his pony body. From the void, his father’s disembodied voice laughed. "You really did it this time, son. You committed a first-degree regicide. I love your work!"

"No..."

"The power of a brand new world is now in your grasp!"

"No!"

"And the first thing you do is take an innocent life in one fell swoop!" The voice laughed once more, and from the shadows a burning, rickety figure emerged, wearing a smiling theater comedy mask and staring directly at him. "That’s my son, always so eager to please."

"No! I'm not like you! I'm not!"

"Oh, but you are, son. You’re a monster, just like your old man. A wolf who can only live to eat and hunt! That’s how I raised you, and that’s all you’ll ever be," he gloated. The comedy mask’s mouth switched from a laughing smile to a straight, serious line. "Now, stop your whining, and start working on what needs to be done. You had a nice start earning their trust with that ‘helpless little me’ routine, yes, but we both know that I didn't raise a loser. It’s time to climb the ladder once more, son. What do you say we start by taking out those that outrank you?" the man said, dropping a knife in front of the prince. Two spotlights appeared behind the man, revealing the Princesses of the Night and the Day, bound and gagged.

"Make me proud, son," the man whispered as the chains forced Blueblood’s body to move once more. Blueblood grasped the knife in his hoof and felt his body move towards Celestia, who stared at him wide-eyed in fear. Despite urging his body to fight, he felt the knife being raised over his head.

"Come on, do it! It’s not like you haven’t done it before, so just go ahead. It's in your blood. I know you want to do it!" the man commanded him.

His hoof began to shake, and he stared into Celestia’s eyes. Her cheeks were tear-stained, and she closed her eyes in shame and resignation, accepting her fate.

“KILL HER ALREADY!” his father roared.

"Never!" Blueblood thrust the knife down upon his other forehoof, injuring it and breaking the manacle on him. As he nursed the injury, he turned around and glared back at the burning effigy of his father. "I will never hurt them, even if they love me just because I look like somebody else. They treat me like a real family, more than you ever did, 'father'. So hear this, I will never hurt them! You hear me!? NEVER!!"

The comedy mask burned away, revealing the snarling face of his father beneath it. "You...worthless, cowardly, disgusting pansy..." he hissed.

His father backhanded him across his face, just as several more chains burst out from the void and latched onto him, yanking him violently to the ground and choking him, with one chain pressing harshly against his injury. The large palm below him disappeared, and he began to fall into the void with a scream before being yanked upwards by a single, tiny string. The flaming effigy of his father circled around him, grinning as Blueblood dangled above oblivion.

"Power beyond your imagination, served to you on a silver platter...and you back away? I thought I raised you better than that. Looks like I was just wasting my time,” his father growled, playfully strumming the solitary string that held Blueblood aloft. He then grabbed it, and suddenly Blueblood felt his body lurch forward, as his father dragged him through the void. “A disappointment, even beyond the grave. You are now, always were, and forever will be just that: one disappointment after another." A flame appeared in the distance, moving closer to them at an alarming rate. "Looks like you still need to be disciplined."

The prince could only scream in terror as he started to feel the flame licking his back.

“Remember this one, son? Do you remember that day?” his father whispered in his ear, as the flames began to crawl up his legs. “The day that you died?”

"ENOUGH!" a strong voice shouted from the void and suddenly there was a platform underneath Blueblood.

A beam of light pierced the darkness, destroying the hand of his father and dropping the prince onto the platform. Holding the stump of his arm, the man roared like a beast and looked up to see the moon rising in the sky, and from it, the silhouette of a dark alicorn flying towards them.

His father whirled towards Blueblood, who started to crawl away. "Still resisting boy? Can't you see? No worthless horse can save you!" the man yelled, attempting to grab the pony, only to get his other hand incinerated for his impudence.

He then felt a bolt of magic pierce his side, and he stumbled, just as Luna landed gracefully on the platform, standing over Blueblood like a mother protecting her young and spreading her wings menacingly. Her eyes glowed pure white with rage, and her fanged teeth were bared. "Remember this, vile nightmare, I'm not a whorse. My name is Princess Luna, and as long as I'm here, you will not touch a single hair of my nephew!!" she warned him, glaring at the filth in front of her. She then used her magic to levitate Blueblood up to his feet, and she hugged him to her side with a wing.

The man laughed and smirked as the platform began to transform into murky, black water, and Blueblood began to sink. He didn’t even pay attention to the princess and focused all his venom towards the prince. "You are deluding yourself, boy. You will never escape me. I OWN--!"

Before he could finish whatever he wanted to say, Luna blasted him once more with a holy beam of light, destroying what was left of the nightmare and ending the dream, leaving both ponies alone in a spotlight surrounded by darkness.

Lifting her wing, the princess found her nephew trembling and sobbing on the ground again, curled tightly into a ball. Her features softened, and she knelt down next to him, nuzzling his side. "Shh, it's okay, my nephew. It's alright. I'm here now," she whispered gently in consolation, but instead of calming him, it seemed to have the opposite effect as he curled up even tighter.

"No...it's not." Blueblood lifted his tear-stained face a little to look at her. "I took advantage of you...all of you..." he whispered back in shame.

"What?" Luna asked.

"~Somebody isn’t being honeeeest!~" The voice of his father echoed in a sing-song manner, before a chain attached itself once more to his back. Blueblood flinched in terror as he saw it, then looked back at Luna pleadingly.

"Princess…I'm so sorry..." he managed to say just before he was violently pulled into the darkness.

“Blueblood!” Luna cried out in alarm and immediately gave chase.

As she flew, she saw puppets of the Twilight, her friends, Starlight, and even her sister, her niece and herself, all being played with by the nightmare like puppets dancing to some unseen, demonic tune. The man’s laughter echoed throughout the void, followed by floating comedy masks laughing at her from the darkness.

This isn’t just a nightmare, she realized in horror. This was something far worse. This was trauma unlike anything she had faced before.

"Oh, you were magnificent, boy, playing with their emotions acting like a scared little puppy. ‘I have amnesia…I'm scared…let's befriend them…my name is Blueblood…I love you, aunty!’" Suddenly, all the puppets’ strings were cut, and they all fell screaming into the void below just as fire appeared everywhere. "Oh God, was that hilarious! Each and every one of those pathetic, worthless ponies just took the bait, hook, line, and sinker!"

Luna shook her head and roared at the darkness around her, letting out a massive wave of light that banished the shadows, masks, and puppets from view. The man appeared floating in front of her, now eight feet tall and holding Blueblood by his neck. "Oh look, it’s your dear aunty, playing hero." He shakes Blueblood in his hand, mocking her. "Now, what were you saying about protecting him? Doesn’t look like you’re doing a good job, old nag."

In a wordless rage, Luna blasted his face with magic, destroying one of his eyes. 

The man shrieked and bared his teeth at her angrily. "Why you little…!" He opened his mouth and breathed a long stream of black fire at her, but she dodged and used a spell to shrink him, forcing him to let go of Blueblood.

Before the man could react, Luna rammed into him and tackled him to another platform, with Luna’s hoof pressing against his face. "Release my nephew at once!" she bellowed.

The man giggled maniacally and looked up at her. "Your nephew? HA! Do you even know who he is?"

"Your tricks are not going to work against me," she hissed, pressing even harder on him. Any more pressure and she could crush his skull.

"What tricks?!" he laughed hysterically, smirking as Blueblood began to back away from both of them. "Go ahead, boy, tell her. As your father, I command it."

The prince felt his muscles tense in fear and he tried to escape, only to find a chain and manacle attached to his foot and leading to his father’s clenched fist. The nightmare’s face twisted into an evil grin.

"I gave you an order, boy, now say it!"

"Blueblood, what is he talking about?" Luna demanded.

"I'm trying to fix it, I swear." Blueblood cried, holding his head in his hooves.

"Nephew, there’s nothing to fix," Luna tried to calm him down, but he remained in the same trembling position.

"Oh, that’s rich! Just like the coward he was back then, he doesn't even want to stand up for himself even now. That’s what he is, just a coward too afraid to speak his mind." The nightmare below her suddenly grew in size and strength, managing to grab Luna by the throat. "And you, little horse, are starting to get on my nerves. This is father-son bonding time, right now. No girls allowed." He pressed his sharp thumb against the princess's neck. "And you’re butting in, and that is something I really, really hate..."

"Nephew…please! I can't fight this nightmare alone. Your sorrow and fears…it’s feeding him!" Luna yelled, grasping at her throat in alarm and looking at Blueblood. She reached out a hoof to him. "Please fight it! Don't give in to your fears."

The nightmare kept laughing. "You still don’t get it, do you, horse? I'm not the nightmare here, you are. You represent the sorrow and guilt that he’s feeling right now. I'm just protecting him. You lost, and now you’re done."

Blueblood looked at the scene in horror and clamped his eyes shut. He wanted to help, but thousands of hands and chains were grabbing at him from the newly-encroaching darkness, preventing him from moving as he watched the scene unfold.

Luna saw the approaching darkness, and suddenly realized what needed to be done. "…I forgive you!" she yelled, catching Blueblood and the nightmare’s attention. She smiled at him, and the hands and chains around him began to disappear. "I don’t care what it is you’re afraid of telling me. Whatever it is, no matter how horrible you believe it to be, I forgive you, my dear nephew! I will always forgive you."

"Hmph, curious choice for last words for your tombstone, but I suppose everyone’s gotta be a comedian." The nightmare began to squeeze her throat tighter, intending to kill, but was surprised when he couldn’t close his fist. The prince was using his magic to stop him. "What?!"

"I won’t let you do it!" Blueblood cried out, tears in his eyes.

"You little fool, do you really believe that she’ll just forgive you? You really think she’ll keep looking at you with these same, loving eyes? If you do, you’ll never have any rest. They’ll hunt you down until...you...BURN."

"We will never do that!" Luna yelled at him.

Blueblood began to grow larger, and blue light shone behind him. The nightmare’s smug smirk fell, and fear entered his gaze. "Boy, think about what you’re doing. We both know what will happen after this! You’ll die!"

Blueblood’s body morphed into a man once more, albeit pale and sickly, and he reached out and grabbed the nightmare’s hand. The nightmare glared at him, and Blueblood narrowed his eyes at him. "I already died once. I don't care anymore." Without another word, the prince punched the nightmare’s face in, making him fall to the ground.

Blueblood leaped on top of him and punched him again. "I am not like you."

The nightmare spat out a glob of black blood and smirked at him. “You have my ferocity.”

Another punch. "Living with you was hell."

“And because of how I taught you, you have my survival instinct.”

Once more. "I won’t let you control me anymore." The monster began to break apart, like he was made of glass, and the fires surrounding them started to disappear. Both father and son began to shrink, yet Blueblood’s punches did not stop.

“And you...have my determination to win…” the nightmare hissed. “We’re not as different as you might think.”

"I have a voice!” Blueblood roared. “I'm alive, and I have the right to live just like anyone else!"

His father tried to grab his other arm. "You’re making a mistake, boy. You won’t last out there in this world, not without me to guide you."

Blueblood delivered one final, powerful punch that shattered the nightmare into millions of tiny, charred pieces. "You need meeeeee…" the nightmare shrieked like a banshee in the night before disappearing into a cloud of smoke, leaving the prince kneeling and sniffing on the ground.

Luna slowly moved closer, taking in his new form with some confusion. Just who...or what...was he? "...Nephew?"

Blueblood winced and looked up at her. "I'm really sorry for not telling you. I just...I didn't want to die," he murmured in shame, standing up. "I suppose there’s no point in denying it anymore." He extended his arms. "This is how I really look."

The Princess of the Night stayed quiet and she started to approach him.

"I-I know you must be full of questions, and I don't really get what’s happening either. But what I know is that I took control of your nephew’s body."

Luna kept advancing in silence.

"It’s the truth, I swear! I'm working on a way to get out, I-I just don't want to die again, that’s all. I know that I must look like a monster to you right now, but I'm not going to hurt your subjects. I just want to be free, so please, give me a little more time!"

She continued to advance.

"Princess, just say something! Yell at me, get mad, or something…anything! Just don't keep staring at me like…"

She reached forward with a hoof and gently touched his cheek, wiping a tear away. "You will never be a monster to me," she finally whispered to him with a smile. She then enveloped him with her wings in a warm embrace. "Oh, my dear nephew, no wonder you were so scared to speak."

Blueblood felt numb, and his eyes widened. "I...I don't get it. Why aren't you mad?"

"Like I said, you’ll never be a monster to me. Just like you, I too had another face that I don't want others to see, and every night I fear that it has a mentality of its own. Please, dear nephew, just let me in. Whatever is in your heart, I will hear it with an open mind. In fact…" Luna closed her eyes, and her body began to glow and shapeshift until she resembled a human body as well. She looked like a human version of herself, wearing a toga and still having her wings, horn, and regalia, making her look like some kind of Greek goddess. "There, now we are the same. I hope this will help you feel more comfortable."

Feeling like the world was lifted from his shoulders, the prince couldn't contain his tears as he hugged her back. They both knelt on the ground and held each other.

"That’s it, nephew, just let it all out," Luna said to him, before closing her eyes and humming a small lullaby. Her gentle voice calmed him, and his trembling eventually ceased. Once he was sufficiently calmed down, Luna let him go and conjured up a cloth, cleaning his face. "Feeling better?" she asked.

"Yeah…thanks."

"Anytime, nephew." Luna smiled at him and then looked around, frowning at their surroundings. "This place looks a bit gloomy; why don't we go into a happier memory?"

"A happier memory?" the prince echoed.

"Don't you have a memento of your life in which you felt happy? Something that you remember that made you feel calm and secure? If you do, why don't you try to visualize it?"

The prince thought for a moment until something came to his mind, and for once he smiled. Soon, they found themselves in the attic of an expensive mansion. In a corner, there was a television with a little kid playing with it, surrounded by various video games and consoles.

"When I was growing up, I remember coming here to play often," the prince murmured. "No matter how hard my father looked, he couldn't find me. He never thought that little cowardly me would brave the scary attic filled with cobwebs and spiders. This was my safe haven for years."

Luna nodded. “You do seem happy to see this place again.”

He looked back at her, confused by her calm demeanor. "Is this...really not at all weird to you?"

She shook her head and sat on a nearby trunk. "Not in the slightest. I told you, I'm going to listen with an open mind. So, why don't you tell me your story?"

The prince nodded and took a seat next to her as he started to tell the long story of all of his life. Unknown to him, each memory that resurfaced in his mind for him to talk to her about served to clean the fog from his head and restore his mind. The princess, slightly taken aback by his story, slowly began to piece together what was happening.

"…Then the building collapsed on top of me, and I blacked out from the heat. The next thing I remember, I was in that room, in that bed."

"My nephew’s room?"

"Yeah, that’s right," the prince finished his story and sighed. "And that’s why I was afraid to tell you. I feared that you’d try to exorcise me and kill me."

"Oh Blueblood, why would we do that?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Blueblood stared at her. "Princess Luna, I'm a ghost possessing your nephew, and even though he was a bad pony, he deserves to live. I had no right to take his place."

"All of Equestria would beg to differ," Luna whispered, mostly to herself with a roll of her eyes in annoyance, remembering how Blueblood used to be.

"What was that?"

"Oh, nothing, it doesn't matter." She met his gaze with a smile. "It’s very kind of you, wanting to do the noble thing, although I think you are approaching this from the wrong direction." She stood up and dusted off her toga.

"What do you mean?" Blueblood asked.

"I don't believe that you’re a ghost, dear nephew," she explained. "What I believe is that what you’re going through is nothing but the cycles of your ordeal, trying to obtain some closure."

"Closure? Closure for whom? Nobody I know has died."

"Ah, but that’s where you’re wrong. Someone did die: you." Luna pointed to him. "Like you told me, you died in your previous world, and despite having a second chance here, you haven't even let yourself mourn your own death."

The prince looked down at his hands in realization. The slightly brown color in his skin began to return, and he no longer looked as pale. "Mourn my own death…?"

The princess held his hand in her own. "It’s okay, nephew. Now I understand more clearly what’s happening, and you understand that we all mourn our losses in our own special way, so just do what you have to do. You can count on my support."

Her words helped him feel at ease, but then something occurred to him. "And what about the prince?"

"You are him," she answered. "He’s you as much as you’re him. No matter who or what you used to be, now you are both the same pony."

"So I just…merged with him?" He glanced at her with a raised eyebrow.

Luna shrugged. "I suppose that it’s yet to be determined, but from what I’ve seen, that is the most logical explanation, yes."

"Then why haven't I seen any of his memories? Why haven't I encountered him here at all?"

At that, Luna’s face fell, and she looked troubled. "I'm afraid that’s something that is still eluding me," she admitted.

The prince looked away in thought before nodding and standing up. "Even if that is so, I need to at the very least try, prin…auntie. If the prince is trapped somewhere in here, then it won’t be fair to just...forget about him. I need to rescue him somehow."

"Then you may try that," Luna allowed. "If he’s still in there, then you’ll have my thanks for helping my family. But if not, then I hope that this quest brings you some peace at least."

“But what if I can’t rescue him?”

Luna looked thoughtful for a moment and hummed to herself. “Then...I will mourn the old Blueblood, but seeing as you are now him, I will also rejoice that he still lives in another form. Blueblood will always be my nephew, no matter who he is.”

The prince smiled at her words. "Thank you, auntie.” He shook his head and chuckled. “How I wish you were the real princess..."

It was Luna’s turn to be confused at that comment, before realization dawned on her and she rolled her eyes with a smirk. "You haven't been taught much about the domains that I control, have you?"

“Uh, no? Why?"

Luna giggled. "Oh, I think it’s better if the others explain it to you directly. Just do me one favor: once you wake up, ask Twilight Sparkle to tell you about what I have dominion over. Can you do that for me?"

Blueblood nodded, still unsure but willing to go along with the princess’s request. "Sure, I guess."

"Thank you, nephew." She leaned over and kissed his forehead. "The hour grows late, and it's almost time for you to wake up. I wish you good fortune in your quest, Blueblood, and do not worry about a thing. Until you’re ready to talk about it, your secret is safe with me." She began waving goodbye as everything around the prince started to fade out into the distance, until he found himself waking up.

Blinking dumbly for a moment, Blueblood looked around and found himself in his bed, staring at the ceiling.

Okay, that is quite possibly the weirdest dream that I’ve ever had...

Sitting up, the prince stretched and scratched at his side as the morning light from the window pooled into his bedroom.

But for some reason, I feel very refreshed and calm. It really was a pleasant dream besides the beginning.

He got up off the bed and made it neatly. Then he remembered what Luna in the dream asked him to do and, shrugging, he decided to comply.

Why not? Might as well find out more about her.

After making his bed and tapping his amulet, he left the room and quietly made his way to the kitchen, where he knew the others would be having breakfast. He felt like he hadn’t eaten in days.
> Royal White Lies (Edited By RB, GT4 And CC)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With a yawn of boredom, the prince put down his book on social studies and stretched his neck. "Gah, this is so boring!" he groaned, looking around at his companions, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, who were busy doing their own assignments. All four of them were currently in the library in Twilight's School of Friendship, working on a study session in preparation for an upcoming test, his being from the princess, and the CMC’s from Miss Cheerilee.

A couple of days had passed since his dream, and even though there was still so much more for him to learn, all of the basic knowledge in magic and academics that he needed was already taught and mastered, thanks to the Crusaders, Starlight, Twilight, and even Luna, who were all kind enough to give him a hand (or hoof, as was the case) to learn it all. In fact, he had done so well that Twilight saw fit to move his studies into a more social/royal area, starting by introducing him to what a royal must know when greeting ambassadors from all three tribes.

And even when he was no longer in Cheerilee’s class, the Crusaders were more than happy to keep helping him in his studies for the remainder of his stay.

"Tell me about it," Scootaloo muttered with a roll of her eyes. "I mean, why do we need to learn half of this stuff? When exactly would I need to know who was the fourth court magician after Clover the Clever?"

"Come on guys, it's important for us to learn all this stuff, no matter how boring it is," Sweetie Belle implored them.

"Yeah, you’d never know when you’ll need to know all this stuff," Applebloom agreed, taking a peek at Blueblood’s book. "You especially, New Blood. It was really embarrassin’ that you didn't know what you can and can't do in front of a pegasus."

Blueblood scratched the side of his head in boredom. "Maybe, but even so, I still find it hard to believe that they actually have six different types of dances, for formal gatherings."

Scootaloo’s ears perked up. "We do?" She looked at his book again. "Oooh, so that’s why my mom has been insisting that I take traditional dance lessons," she said with a grin. "Now everything makes more sense. Thanks, New Blood."

"Glad that I could help." He stretched out his body and glanced at the clock. "Whoa...we’ve been studying for almost four hours?!" he exclaimed, causing the Cutie Mark Crusaders to freeze in shock.

"Four hours? Oh no, I'm late!!" Applebloom panicked, and began hurriedly packing her books. "I promised Granny Smith that I’d feed the chickens after school! if I don't do it before she finds out I’ve been here all this time, I’ll be grounded."

"And I was supposed to be home already; my parents must be pretty mad at me right now." Sweetie Belle adds.

"Sorry, New B, but I’ve gotta go. You should too, before it gets dark," Scootaloo agreed. "We’ll continue tomorrow at the clubhouse, we promise." The other two nodded, and all three headed towards the door.

"Sorry for the rush, but we really need to go, New Blood. See you later!" Sweetie Belle waved before all three of them galloped out of the library as if their tails were on fire.

Blinking a couple of times at their sudden disappearance, the prince gave a weak wave as they left, leaving him completely alone.

Welp, it looks like the study session is over, he mused, as he started packing as well. Then, after looking around to make sure nopony was watching, he pulled out a book of spells from his saddlebags. For the past few days, ever since his little chat with the Princess of the Night, Blueblood had been collecting all the materials he needed for the potion (which took some doing). He was very lucky that Princess Luna had even given him a few suggestions and ideas on where to find many of the ingredients that he needed. He had managed to get all but two so far.

One being a Hydra Blossom, which, like the name implied, grew only around the habitat of the creature, and the other was the “Light of a Sunset”. He was confused by that one for some time, but after further investigation, he found that it had meant that he needed to mix all of the components in a place with plenty of sunlight, at the perfect moment, and use a magnifying glass to absorb the light into the potion.

However, the requirements for the potion weren't the problem. Making the potion in secret was the tricky part.

Saving the last required ingredient for the end, the prince decided to place his attention on the flower, which to his luck, he had found a safer alternative from peeking at the books in Twilight’s house --- a spell that could transform one plant into another for exactly one hour. It was a complex and really difficult spell to cast, but if performed correctly, it meant that the prince would only need to worry about that one final step. After careful consideration, and secret practices with dummy plants, Blueblood felt ready to give this spell his first try and being at the school gave him the perfect cover if he was discovered.

With a smile and a nod, the prince packed the book again and put the saddlebag on his back, before walking toward the entrance. Today, he was determined to obtain the final ingredient on his list.





Meanwhile, in Twilight’s office

The Princess of Friendship had just finished placing some snacks and tea on her desk when she heard a knock on the door. Spike, who was sitting on a couch, put aside his comic book and opened the door, revealing both Princess Celestia and a changeling.

This changeling was tall --- make that very tall, enough to rival Celestia --- and had varying shades of green on his exoskeleton, with large orange antlers on his head, purple eyes, and blue wings. He was chatting amicably with Celestia before they both turned towards Twilight and Spike with smiles adorning their faces.

"Princess Celestia, King Thorax, welcome!" Twilight exclaimed happily, fluttering over and giving her old mentor a hug.

Spike approached Thorax and bumped his clawed fist against the Changeling’s extended hoof. "Hey, Thorax!"

"Hi, Spike!" Thorax greeted, smiling warmly at his friend. "It’s nice to see you again."

"Right back at ya, dude," Spike said.

“Oh, where are my manners?” said Twilight. “Come on in! I’ve already set things up for our meeting.” 

The two rulers nodded and stepped inside her office, taking two seats in front of Twilight’s desk, while Spike pulled up a chair and sat next to Twilight. Celestia accepted a cup of tea from Twilight and sipped it, humming in delight at the sweet aroma and the subtle taste of honey. "Thank you, Twilight. And thank you, Thorax, for agreeing to meet with us."

"Don't mention it, princess. It was my pleasure, and I believe we changelings would be happy to use our infiltration training for a good cause," Thorax replied with a respectful nod toward Celestia. "I hope you don't mind that I asked you to meet me here. I just thought that meeting in Canterlot might have been too suspicious given the circumstances."

"It was a brilliant idea, Thorax. I couldn't have thought of a better place myself,” Celestia admitted. “And you’re right, of course.”

"Yeah, it was pretty clever,” Twilight agreed. “Even if information of this encounter is leaked to the nobility or the public, everypony would just think that you two were here just to discuss ideas for my school."

Thorax’s face flushed and he chuckled nervously. "It’s nothing really, just some standard changeling techniques." He then looked at Celestia. "I’m sorry it took me so long to answer, Ember and I have been having some minor issues with our territories, so I couldn't answer right away."

"Nothing serious, right?" Spike asked nervously.

"Oh, heavens, no. There’s nothing to worry about, Spike. It was just a couple upstart dragons that stepped into our borders and started spooking my citizens, for the most part. Ember’s already dealt with them, so there’s no risk of war whatsoever," he replied with a smirk, making the dragon huff and cross his arms.

"You get scared of provoking a war one time, and nopony ever lets you live it down. You guys are the worst,” Spike grouched, making everyone in the room laugh. Spike rolled his eyes but smiled alongside them.

"So, back to business," said Thorax, straightening up. "You told me that there was a small problem that you could use my help with?"

Celestia nodded and took another sip of her tea, adopting a more professional approach. "That’s correct, Thorax. You see, recently my nephew, Blueblood, suffered from some sort of amnesia that has rendered him vulnerable to suggestion and manipulation from the other noble houses. That’s why we brought him here, so that he may learn all the basic knowledge that he needed before coming back home. I hope you didn’t mind that we used the changeling necklace that you loaned us?"

Thorax shook his head. "Not at all, princess. Although...he, ah, is not wearing it for long periods of time, is he? Because with ponies, that artifact can be a bit...overwhelming, shall we say?"

"No, he only wears it when necessary, and not a minute more," Celestia answered.

"Yeah, Twilight even cast some spells on the castle, so he doesn’t have to use the necklace as much," Spike added.

Thorax sighed in relief. "That's good. The ancient archives in the hive tell stories of ponies that stole some of those necklaces and ended up losing their minds when they developed a severe case of split personality, where they even forgot who was the original pony. Nasty stuff, that."

Twilight gasped and leaned forward across her desk with a wide grin and a twinkle in her eye. "You have ancient archives about changeling inventions?! Do you think I could read some of them?" she begged with a hopeful smile, before Celestia regained their attention by using her magic to slowly push Twilight back into her chair.

"One favor at a time, Twilight," Celestia chuckled before addressing Thorax once more. "Anyway, back to the subject at hoof. Despite our best efforts, rumors of his condition have spread among the nobles, and now they all wish to find my nephew for their own schemes. I wish to stop them before that can happen, and that’s why I requested your help with this, Thorax. As the ruler of the changelings, I was wondering if you could make a fake meeting for us to 'leak' information out to the masses. That would convince the nobles that our lie was legitimate all along."

"Ah, I know that one," Thorax said with a smirk. "Infiltration Strategy #57. Kinda old school, but effective."

Spike raised an eyebrow. "You guys have a classification for these kinds of things?"

"Pfft, we’ve been impersonating ponies for centuries, Spike. Of course we have a classification system for the various strategies we thought of during that time. We’ve got hundreds, although my personal favorite is #112.” He paused, then tapped his hoof to his chin in thought. “Although, now that I think about it, we haven't been able to find a proper order to catalog them in."

Twilight gasped in excitement at the mention of cataloging, only for Spike to hold her down in her chair before she could start begging Thorax to let her help with that particular problem.

"Of course, we’re not expecting you to do this for nothing, Thorax. We are more than willing to offer a compromise that would be beneficial for you, in return for this favor," Celestia offered.

"Oh no, it’s fine, princess. We’re always happy to lend you a hoof," he replied, raising a hoof and smiling. Then something occurred to him, and he hummed. "Although, if you insist on it. I think I do know something that could benefit both of us at the same time."

"Truly?" Celeste asked, taking a final sip from her tea and placing the cup on the desk.

"As long as we can do it, we’d be more than happy to help you Thorax," Twilight said.

"Well you see, some of my changelings have had missions where they had to impersonate nobles, so we could steal their money for Chrysalis’s conquest." He quickly raised his hoof before they could protest. "Don’t worry about that, though. I'm working on a system for returning all the money to their proper owners without disrupting our own already fragile economy. Trust me, it was a horror show of paperwork, since a lot of those nobles can be particularly shady and are more than willing to try and find loopholes, declare missing cargo, and many other things just to try and get more bits than what they had lost."

"I know the feeling," Celestia said with a roll of her eyes.

"So you see, it’s not a big problem, just a particularly annoying one, so maybe things can be solved if a family of changelings is introduced as nobles in Canterlot," Thorax said.

"You want to create the first changeling nobles?" Spike asked.

"Well, technically my brother Pharynx is a prince, but he doesn’t like that title, so he’s more than willing to let someling else have that honor. So, I suppose the answer is yes,” Thorax replied with a subtle shake of his head. “Some of my changelings had to impersonate nobles for such a long time that they ended up enjoying their role. Sometimes they approach me to ask if there's a way for me to create some changeling nobles within the hive. We are still repairing all the damage Chrysalis had caused, so I didn't think we were ready to establish a nobility yet, much to their disappointment."

“So what are you suggesting?” Celestia asked.

"Just this, princess: if you let them be introduced within Canterlot society as changelings, their dream could be fulfilled. We could pay back the money we stole and my hive could get its first legitimate source of income, all in one shot," he replied with an exuberant smile.

Celestia nodded in understanding. "If I do this, can you promise me that those changelings won’t change form?"

"Of course. The whole idea is for them to be introduced as the face of our society, just like Ocellus is doing here at the school," Thorax explained. "Also, there’s no need for you to train them in politics or nobility, they know pretty well how that game works."

"It won’t be easy for them,” Twilight pointed out. “The nobles of Canterlot can be a particularly ruthless bunch."

Thorax nodded. "I’ve already warned them about that, but all the same, princess, they’re more than willing to face the challenge. They’re the best the hive has to offer."

"In that case, you have a deal, Thorax,” Celestia declared. “I will gladly accept your request and do anything in my power to introduce Equestria to their first noble family of changelings." The princess extended her hoof for a hoofshake with Thorax, which he gladly accepted. "Do you have any idea what businesses they could take on?"

"Not yet, but I think we can both think of something."

"Hey, that could be it!" Spike chipped in.

Twilight turned to him. "What is it, Spike?"

"The meeting, the thing Blueblood is supposed to be doing!” he cheered. ”He could be reuniting with the changeling nobles since he 'knows' about the families in Canterlot, and in exchange for buttering him up, the prince could help them get in."

"Spike...you’re a genius!" Twilight gasped. "That could also explain why he didn't say a word about any of it to them, since nobles are really shady, so they’d assume he‘d be thinking of searching for allies and letting his other 'friends' know how they could be replaced if something were to happen."

"As much as I would love to disagree, these kinds of deals fit with my nephew’s past," Celestia sighed, hanging her head in shame.

"But things didn't go as planned," Thorax added, thinking aloud. "To sell the lie, you must make it fit the result. Spike is right that the plan is perfect at the start, but at the end, can we really think of a reason for his sudden change of heart? Something that made him reflect on himself and caused him to be so different now?"

Celestia perked up and smiled. "That would be the perfect cherry on top."

Thorax stood up. "I can rally some of my changelings for the 'meeting' and explain the situation to the ones that want to be nobles. I'm sure they’ll be more than happy to help too. We would only need a picture of him hanging out with some of them, and we could take care of the rest."

"You have my thanks, Thorax,” Celestia said with a respectful bow of her head. “With your help, we’ll soon be able to introduce Canterlot to…" At that moment, a tremor ran throughout the room, causing the four of them to freeze.

A moment of silence passed, and Spike sent a quick, worried glance at Twilight. "...What...was that?" he asked nervously.

Before Twilight could respond, they all heard a roar coming from the distance, instantly sending shivers down their spines and forcing them all to rush out of the room oh high alert. It sounded like it was coming from outside.

Once they reached the garden, they were met by a growing crowd of students, as well as the other Element Bearers approaching the origin of the chaos. They cautiously stepped forward through the crowd until they saw some kind of large plant the size of a fully-grown python. It had four prehensile stems, each terminating in draconic heads, with large rose petals as a mane for each head. The plant monster was in the process of trying to devour the poor prince in front of it, who had only just managed to put up a fragile magical barrier to protect himself before all four of the heads lurched towards him. One of the heads had latched onto the shield, and was cracking it open at an alarming rate.

The Element Bearers tried to approach, but the three remaining heads prevented them from advancing. Rainbow attempted to distract them, but was smacked out of the air, and Rarity and Pinkie were scared off by a loud roar from the other two. Fluttershy had hid behind Applejack, who was standing her ground and holding onto her stetson. Starlight was blasting the plant from afar with her magic.

"What in Equestria is happening?!" Twilight cried out as she flew to her friends.

"Heck if I know, Twilight," Applejack replied, trying to wave the students back to safety.

Starlight paused in her attacks to add, "This thing just appeared out of nowhere and started attacking your cousin without any rhyme or reason!" One of the heads lurched towards some of the students, and Starlight immediately cast a barrier spell over them with a growl. “Pesky bugger’s tough, too!”

Rainbow face-planted into the ground next to them with a muffled grunt. Shaking her head and getting onto her hooves, she muttered, "I'm trying to get to New Blood, but all those heads are getting in my way.”

Finally, Blueblood’s shield shattered and the creature’s teeth clamped down. Had he not jumped out of the way at the last second, he would have met a rather grisly end. Scrambling, he desperately tried to run away but the plant monster slammed a thick, thorny vine all around him, trapping him in place. Before he could cry out in alarm, the vine constricted and snagged onto him, squeezing him tightly.

"New Blood!" Twilight screamed, taking to the air and charging her horn, only for Celestia to beat her to the punch, literally.

Celestia rammed into one of the heads at full force, spearing it with her horn and causing it to explode into a pile of sap and plant juices. The monster roared and tried to attack her, but she was too fast, and she summoned a solar beam of light that split into three, incinerating all three heads and reducing them to ash and char in an instant.

The monster fell limp immediately, letting Blueblood go and flopping to the ground.

"Holy...cow..." Spike murmured, his arms falling limp and his jaw dropping. Thorax could only nod in surprise.

The bruised and exhausted prince stumbled out of the mess of vines, gasping for air and holding his chest with his right forehoof, before falling to the ground with a groan of pain, his other forehoof broken at an odd angle.

Princess Celestia rushed to his side in immense worry and carefully lifted his head so she could look him in the eyes. Blueblood flinched from the pain before looking at her. "It’s okay, dear, it's over now," Celestia whispered, nuzzling his cheek and not caring that she was compromising his secret. Her motherly instinct was taking over.

"Aun…" the prince began, before freezing upon noticing that they were being observed by a crowd of ponies. "Pri…" Talking was painful for him, yet he managed to speak at his second attempt. "Princess…Celestia?" he groaned, faking surprise. "W…what are you…doing here?"

The princess got the hint immediately and discreetly nodded. "Don't talk, my little pony, help is on its way." She turned and addressed the crowd. "Somepony get a doctor! Now!" she commanded, making everypony snap into action.

Rainbow flew away in search of a doctor, Fluttershy approached to see how she could help, and the rest of the Element Bearers worked on dispersing the crowd. Applejack and Starlight, however, kept casting suspicious glances at Blueblood. Something about this situation didn’t sit right with them, and Celestia’s reaction to his safety seemed a little too...motherly, even for her.

Why did this little colt, and Twilight’s cousin to boot, get such a reaction? Just who was New Blood?
> Nursing Mistakes (Edited By RB, GT4 And CC)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After the students had dispersed and the day went back to normal, Blueblood was taken to Ponyville General, where it only took one glance at Princess Celestia to get him moved in and looked after immediately. Normally, the princess wouldn't dream of using her position for something like this, especially if there were other ponies with far worse cases, and yet at the moment, she couldn't and wouldn't refuse any special treatment. Her concern for her last blood relative (besides Luna) had been taking over her mind, making her unable to pay attention to anything else. She, the Elements, Thorax, Spike, and Starlight were currently in the waiting room of the hospital, wondering when nurse Redheart would come back and give them an update on the prince’s condition.

An awkward silence had grown in the room, as all those present brooded over recent events and suspicions. Nopony knew what to do or what to say, especially with Celestia sitting and waiting patiently, almost imperiously, for Redheart to return.

Celestia, in particular, was just sitting in front of the door as the elements stayed quiet in awkward silence, none of them knowing what to do or even say in this situation. Eventually, Applejack couldn't take it anymore and she decided to break the ice.

Finally, Applejack, having had enough, cleared her throat, catching everypony’s attention. "Can anypony please just say somethin’ already?" she grumbled, looking around the room.

When no answer was forthcoming, she sighed and rolled her eyes. "Fine, if nopony is gonna say it, Ah will." She sent a small glare at Twilight. "What in the hay just happened, Twilight? Who really is New Blood, and don't ya tell me that ya don't know what Ah’m talkin’ about, because that’s a bag of manure and ya know it!"

Twilight sighed, knowing precisely what Applejack was referring to. “Celestia was worried about a colt that was in danger, that’s all it was,” she answered half-heartedly. There was no way she was going to squeeze her way out of this one, not with Applejack.

"’Worried about a colt in danger’, my flank!” Applejack retorted. “Don’t lie to me, Twi, Ah know when a pony is concerned for her family, and back there was just what Ah saw."

Starlight looked at Twilight with sympathy. "Twilight, I know you asked me to keep quiet, and I want to respect that, but at this point, you might as well just go and tell us whatever secret it is you’re hiding. Like AJ said, perhaps other ponies could be fooled with Celestia’s act, but we all know her better than that."

"I…I'm sorry, but I just can't..." Twilight stammered, and she began to sweat.

“Why not?” Rainbow cried, fluttering over and looking hurt. “We’ve been friends for years now. Don’t you trust us?”

“It’s not that…” Twilight protested, backing up.

“She promised,” Pinkie said suddenly, surprisingly somber. Everypony turned to her as she leaned against the doorframe. “She Pinkie Promised, I know it. I knew somepony Pinkie Promised the other day, I just didn’t know who.”

Twilight hung her head in shame and looked away from her friends, her ears drooping. Spike walked over and put a claw on her side in sympathy.

"It’s alright, Twilight," Celestia said, turning to the rest of the group at last. "Applejack has raised a good point, and it would be insulting not to tell them now. I release you from your promise. I only ask that, in return, all of you please keep the secret once you’ve heard the truth."

The rest of the Elements looked at each other and nodded in solidarity, before turning back to Celestia and smiling. "Do you really need to ask, princess?" Applejack asked with a tip of her stetson.

"Yeah, you can count on us! If you tell us to keep quiet, we’ll gladly do it," Rainbow added, hovering in the middle of the room. Pinkie nodded in agreement and did the Pinkie Promise motions in silence with a grin.

"Plus, this seems kind of serious if you even asked Twilight to keep it away from us..." Fluttershy murmured. "Oh dear, I hope it’s nothing too dangerous!"

"Honestly darling, I'm a bit offended. Regardless of the secret, I'm not the type of pony that likes to gossip,” Rarity declared. Noticing Rainbow opening her mouth to object, she quickly raised a hoof and added, “When it's not fashion related; I see you, Rainbow."

Twilight smiled, relieved at her friends’ words. "Thanks for understanding, everypony, and I'm really sorry I couldn't tell you guys, but we just didn't want to risk the secret leaking before he was ready. A lot of ponies would have loved to use this information to their advantage, and if they do, Equestria could very well be in danger."

"Oh my, it was as bad as I thought, I’m so sorry..." Fluttershy gasped, bringing a hoof to her mouth in surprise.

"It is pretty bad, because...you see..." Twilight paused, looking at Rarity and Applejack nervously before swallowing hard and continuing, "I didn't exactly lie to you, girls. New Blood is technically my cousin. Or rather, my cousin-in-law." She grimaced and looked at Celestia. "As well as Princess Celestia’s nephew."

The room once again descended into silence, as the Elements all began to digest this revelation. Suddenly Rarity’s eyes widened and the color drained from cheeks. "No..." she whispered in sheer horror.

"New Blood is actually--"

"No! NononononoNO!" Rarity exclaimed, her horror growing as she began to hyperventilate and clutch her head with her hooves. Applejack’s eyes widened in realization, as she started to piece everything together as well.

"…Blueblood," Twilight finished with a flinch.

"I LET THAT SICK, DEMENTED STALLION RIDE ON MY--!" Rarity shrieked in disgust, just as Celestia surrounded her body in a sound-cancelling shield.

"Miss Rarity. I understand that this is a shock to you, given your past experiences with him, but need I remind you this is a hospital?" Celestia said, sending her a small glare of disapproval.

Celestia’s words went unheeded by the distraught and thoroughly mortified unicorn, who continued to shriek and rage, pulling at her eyelids and hair and not even noticing the shield around her. Eventually, she began to wobble on her hooves in a daze and her eyes rolled backwards into her skull, and she fainted. Celestia sighed and cancelled the shield, and Spike quickly ran to Rarity and started to fan her with one of the hospital magazines.

"Oh, I get it now; that’s what the 'B' stood for all along, right?" Starlight said, face-hoofing. "It was a code. New Blueblood! Why didn't I see it?"

"Sometimes the best and most invisible of hints are the ones right in front of you," Thorax said sagely, before glancing down at the floor at Rarity’s comically prone body. "Did...something happen between her and the princess’s nephew?"

"It's a long story," Spike explained with a sigh, setting aside the magazine. "Let’s just say that Rarity had a first-hoof experience with the old Blueblood, and ever since then she has sworn revenge."

“Oh…” Thorax grimaced. "Yikes."

"Ya mean to tell us that spoiled, snooty, too-good-for-good-ol’-home-cookin' son of a mule...is now that kind, little colt?!" Applejack asked in disbelief, glaring at Twilight. "Ah said that we wanted the truth, Twi!"

"I’m telling you the truth!" Twilight cried. "I swear, all of the stories I told you, it’s the complete truth. We don't know what happened, how or when exactly either, but Blueblood just lost all of his memories. When the princess found him, he couldn't even remember how to walk!" She began to pace the room. "And if the nobles find out about this, they’ll just swarm him like sharks attracted to blood. They could corrupt him, use him like their personal puppet or worse, make him an even bigger jerk than he already was!"

"An even bigger jerk?” Pinkie exclaimed, bouncing up in panic. “But...but that would be, like, a two-times meaner and jerkier version of him! He’d be a Prince Badblood!"

Twilight nodded. "Exactly; that’s why we couldn't risk his condition getting out."

"But why couldn't you tell us, Twilight?" Applejack asked.

"It was my fault, Applejack," Celestia replied, stepping forward. "Like she said, we needed to keep this situation as quiet as possible. Plus, I wanted him to have a real second chance at living in Harmony and with friends." She met Applejack’s gaze. "Before you tell us that we should have had more faith in you, let me ask you a question: would you have given him a chance if you ever knew the truth? And before answering, just know that even I couldn't believe what was happening either."

Rainbow was the first one to raise a hoof in objection, but try as she might, no words came to her, and she soon lowered her hoof and looked down nervously. The other three conscious Elements all seemed in the same boat; even Pinkie looked unsure of herself, and her mane deflated a little. Only Thorax and Starlight seemed to take the news well, and Rarity’s feelings were already well-known, despite her present condition.

As much as they hated to admit it, the princess was right. After they learned about Rarity’s encounter with the prince all those years ago, they had long since written him off as a lost cause and a complete jerk. Even if something miraculous had happened, just like Twilight and Celestia had claimed, they would have a hard time believing it, and Rarity would flat-out refuse to. They loathed him that much for the damage he had caused.

Seeing their evident reactions, Celestia nodded and closed her eyes. “That's what I thought,” she murmured, before sitting back down and going back to waiting.

Rarity stirred and blinked, propping herself up slightly and looking around the room. “Oh, oh dear, I must have dozed off. I just had the most ghastly nightmare. You see, Twilight had gathered us all together, and told us that sweet, innocent New Blood was actually that horrible, self-righteous, imbecilic, atrocious, smug, vile Prince Blue...blood…” She froze, staring at the bemused faces surrounding her and chuckling nervously. “It...it wasn’t a nightmare, dream, or vision, wasn’t it?”

Everypony shook their heads slowly, confirming her suspicions.

Rarity blinked twice and continued to stare at them for a few short moments, before closing her eyes and letting out a long-suffering sigh. “I see,” she whispered. “Spikey?”

Spike was at her side in an instant. “Y-yes, Rarity?”

“Catch me,” she said simply, before fainting once more, this time into Spike’s waiting (but hardly adequate) arms.

Starlight snorted in both amusement and disbelief at the scene. "Hoohoo, wow, was he really that much of a horrible pony?" she asked, looking at everypony in the room. "Twilight, what in Celestia’s name did he do in the past to be so universally hated? I mean, I enslaved a town, ruined your friendships and tried to brainwash all of you, and travelled through time and destroyed Equestria several times in various timelines, and yet you all forgave me almost immediately after I just said 'I'm sorry’.” She shook her head. “What did he do that even my mistakes paled in comparison to his?"

Had Rarity been awake at that moment, she probably could have given Starlight a thousand answers. However, nopony else in the room had any of those answers to give, so her words dug into their hearts like a knife, twisting and turning, and amplifying their guilt. She was right. Blueblood was a bully and a jerk, to be sure, but what she had done was far worse than what he could ever dream of doing. What right did they have to judge who was or wasn’t worthy of a second chance?

Before anypony could say anything, the double doors to the medical ward opened, and a white-furred earth pony mare in a nurse’s outfit trotted in, carrying a clipboard in one of her forelegs. She seemed in good spirits.

Upon seeing her, Celestia hurried over and asked, "How is he?"

Nurse Redheart smiled as she looked up at the alicorn. "The prince is expected to make a full and speedy recovery, Your Highness. It's a miracle, but the damage to his fetlock wasn’t as severe as we had first thought, and the surgeons were able to repair the damage without too much trouble. He’ll only have to wear a cast for a couple of days."

"Oh, thank the stars," Celestia let out a sigh of relief, letting her wings drop slightly as she bowed her head.

"His rib cage and horn, on the other hoof," the nurse continued, adopting a more serious expression. "Those suffered far more serious injuries. One of his anterior ribs broke, and only by sheer luck didn't pierce anything vital. He’s depleted all of his magic, so he will be forced to wear a suppression ring and must be restricted to bed rest until he recovers enough of his mana, and until his body heals properly. That means no exercise, no magic, and absolutely no heavy lifting of any kind for a week, and even after that, only levitation spells until further notice." She unclipped the changeling amulet from her clipboard and hoofed it over to Celestia.

"Luckily, returning him to normal didn't worsen his condition, but I'm afraid until he fully recovers, he can no longer wear this. Otherwise, his wounds could reopen, given the nature of this...artifact. I'm sorry, princess,” Redheart apologized.

Celestia shook her head and raised a hoof. "What’s important is that he’s safe and alright," she replied, glancing at the amulet and letting it hover in the air. “May I see him?”

Redheart nodded and stepped aside. "Just be careful around him. Right now, he needs peace and quiet."

Celestia stepped past her, bowing her head in thanks. "Thank you, Nurse Redheart."

The others began to follow suit, only for Redheart to stop them with an outstretched hoof. "I’m sorry, only family members at the moment."

"I'm his cousin," Twilight replied.

Redheart was about to let Twilight pass, but Applejack quickly yanked on Twilight’s tail, holding her back. "Oh-ho, no ya don't! Ya still have a lot to explain, Twilight," Applejack said. "For now, let Princess Celestia talk with him. We still need to talk about the other things that happened."

Twilight looked ready to protest, but at the combined, expectant glares from Applejack, Rainbow, and Pinkie, she relented and stepped away from the ward’s entrance.

Thorax, meanwhile, sent a questioning gaze towards Redheart. "I know you said only family members, but may I go with her?" he asked. " I need to talk with him about something vital. Don't worry, I'll keep it short."

The nurse raised a hoof to deny him, but she saw Celestia nod out of the corner of her eye, so she stepped aside and let the changeling king through.

Thorax smiled and dipped his head as he joined Celestia."Thanks."

Once they were gone, Applejack sighed and looked at her friend. "Twilight, did the princess know about the near-death experience Blueblood had?" she asked worriedly.

Starlight reared her head back. "Wait, what?!"





In a private room

Looking at the starry night through his window, the prince grumbled to himself as he stared at his foreleg currently strung up in a sling.

So much for keeping this body intact, he thought grimly before scratching the ring on his horn. And God, what the hell is this thing, and why does it itch so much?

His attention was drawn to the front door when he heard it open, and he watched as Princess Celestia and King Thorax walked in. The appearance of the changeling king surprised him, and he quickly bowed his head as much as he could without hurting himself. "Your Highne--"

"You can stop, nephew," Celestia said, making Blueblood look at her. "He knows everything. However, that’s not the subject we need to discuss right now." Her expression turned to one of disappointment and mild anger as she placed the amulet on a nearby table.

"Oh," Blueblood said, reading the mood. "The incident with the plant...thing. Auntie, I just want to say--"

"Do you have any idea how much you scared me?!" she hissed, approaching his bed and making him flinch at her reaction. "Practicing advanced magic behind your teacher’s back, which, by the way, specifically tells you that you need at least two unicorns to perform correctly, and what did you do? You jumped straight into one of the most complex types of transformations that book had to offer! And worst of all, you tried it on your own, in a secluded place where nopony could see you or help you in case things went south, and they did! Not only was that extremely irresponsible and dangerous, you could have hurt others. Can you imagine what would have happened if I hadn't gotten there in time to..." She sucked in a breath, not wanting to finish her rant out of fear and sorrow. Thorax put a hoof on her shoulder, and she sent him a thankful glance before calming her nerves. She gazed at Blueblood, her anger gone but her disappointment on full display. “What do you have to say for yourself, young colt?”

The prince shrank back under her scolding gaze, guilt all over his face. “I’m...I’m sorry, auntie. I got curious. Starlight told me that I was making progress quickly, so I...I thought that maybe I could try something a little bit more challenging. I thought I could handle it.”

Celestia’s features softened, and she sat on the bed next to him. "Blueblood, hear me. It’s alright for you to be curious about magic and wish to learn more; in fact, I even encourage it. But I asked Twilight not to teach you advanced spells for this very reason. They are dangerous, especially for a unicorn with your condition, and the risk of miscasting is much higher than it is for a more basic spell." She used one of her wings to bring his chin up. "You are my precious little nephew, as well as my last distant relative. I don’t want to lose you, and I'm worried for your well being, Blueblood. That’s why I sent you here in the first place, so that you would be safe. If something happened to you...it would devastate me and Luna." Taking care not to hurt him even more, she wrapped him up in a gentle hug. "That’s why I want you to promise me that you will never do something as dangerous and reckless as this ever again."

The prince felt terrible, as the request provoked a mental conflict in him. Here he was, lying wounded on a bed, feeling the love from a pony he felt for sure he was deceiving. The sensation of being cared for was something alien, and, at the same time, welcoming to him. The unconditional love she was giving, the comfort of her wings, the harsh yet fair words only a family member could give...all of that and more made him feel so happy and yet guilty at the same time. All he could do was return the hug as best as he could. "Auntie, I-I'm really sorry," he murmured.

"Promise me," Celestia repeated, almost pleadingly, as if sensing how he was dodging her words. “Please…?”

With a relenting sigh, he nodded. "I promise. I won’t ever do something like that again. I’ll be patient and let my training go at its proper pace."

Celestia smiled and kissed him on the forehead. "That’s the only thing I wanted to hear," she said, letting him go. "Yet, I'm afraid you won’t get out of this mess so easily, nephew."

He raised an eyebrow. “Pardon me?”

"Starting tomorrow, you will have an escort of two guards with you at all times," she replied. "Not only that, but now you are prohibited from seeing your little friends until you are fully healed."

"What? But auntie--"

"Don't 'but auntie' me, mister," she interrupted him, her tone stern once more. "I gave you freedom and you abused it, so if you want it back, you will have to earn it. Besides, until you’re fully healed you can’t use the amulet, so unless you want to blow the secret early and ruin the whole point of this, you will stay here and rest in this bed. So one more complaint from you, and I will hold your hoof and drag you around with me everywhere I go for a month. Am I understood?"

The prince sighed in defeat. "Yes, auntie."

Celestia smiled and stood up. "It’ll just be temporary, and it’s mostly for my own peace of mind, nephew." She says to him in a calm voice. "I’ve been told that, due to your injury, you can't do too much exercise, heavy lifting, or magic for a while anyway, so all of this will just be a precaution. I know that you can be patient, and this will only teach you to be more careful."

"I-I understand, auntie,” Blueblood said. “I promise to be more careful from here on out."

"That’s what I like to hear."

Then the prince realized something. "Auntie, what’s going to happen now that we can’t keep this secret anymore?"

"There’s no need for you to worry about it. I already had something in mind for that. For now, there is someling I want you to meet." The princess looked back at her companion. "This is Thorax, a dear friend of ours that was kind enough to help us in our time of need. I only wish the situation would have been more favourable."

Thorax, having been content to wait at a respectful distance, smiled and approached the bed. "Hello, Prince Blueblood," he greeted. "It's very nice to finally meet you."

"It's very nice to meet you too, Thorax," Blueblood replied, trying to be friendly. A thought occurred to him, and he grinned in curiosity. "Are you, by any chance, Ocellus’s dad?"

Thorax let out a laugh and shook his head. "What’s with everypony asking me that exact question these days? No, she’s just one of my subjects, but don't worry about offending me. Due to my height, it’s a common mistake."

"Subject?" The prince’s eyes widened in realization. "Then that would mean…"

Celestia giggled into one of her hooves. "Nephew, I’d like you to meet King Thorax, ruler of the changelings."

Blueblood immediately bowed his head once more, only for Thorax to stop him. "Ah, you don't need to do that, prince. We’re all royals here,” he said.

"Sorry," Blueblood replied. slightly embarrassed.

"The changelings are the ones responsible for making that necklace that helped us, nephew," Celestia explained, pointing to the amulet on the table.

"They made the necklace?" Blueblood echoed.

"That’s right! One of our best creations, really, capable of copying our famous ability," Thorax supplied, before he was engulfed in a green flame. Suddenly in his place stood an exact copy of Celestia, down to her voice. "Shapeshifting," Thorax finished in Celestia’s voice, before changing back.

"Whoa..." Blueblood whispered in awe. "Does it hurt?"

"Oh, not at all,” Thorax replied. “It’s like when you unicorns used magic from your horns, this kind of thing just comes naturally for us ‘lings. The flames are more of an illusion that hides our shapeshifting."

"And that brings us to our plan,” Celestia said, bringing their attention to her. “Thorax and I were planning a story for you to use when you return to Canterlot, as a way to help you reintroduce you into society without any risk of the nobility taking advantage of your situation."

"We’ve been known for being the masters of infiltration ever since our creation. Long story, I’ll tell you later," Thorax said, raising a hoof before the prince could inquire further. "So when the princess herself told us that we could use those abilities to help her, I was more than happy to lend her a hoof. We only needed to discuss the plan with you, take a couple of pictures, and then all you need to do is play along and see how well we do our magic."

"Unfortunately, that plan has been somewhat derailed now," Celestia said with a sigh.

Feeling responsible, Blueblood looked down like he had just broken Celestia’s favorite tea set. "I'm sorry."

"Don’t worry about it," Thorax reassured him. "Not all hope is lost. We can still think of something else, and perhaps we could salvage some of the original plan, and try something different."

"Something different…" the prince murmured, before a lightbulb went off in his head. "Maybe this isn’t a complete loss!"

The other two royals looked at him curiously. "What do you mean?" Celestia wondered.

"What was the original plan? So maybe I messed it up, but if there is something I’ve learned from living here, it’s that I can adapt to the situation," he said with confidence.

God, I'm going to hate myself, playing the business game once more. But if I can use it to solve this problem, then so be it!

Celestia frowned. "Blueblood, I don't think we could still do--"

"Please auntie,” Blueblood interjected, silencing her. “At least let me try. I dragged you both into this mess, now let me fix it."

Thorax and Celestia exchanged a contemplative glance, and Thorax shrugged. Celestia tilted her head to the side and nodded, and they both turned back to the prince. Thorax cleared his throat. "Right then, this was the plan we had…”
> Midnight Chats (Edited by RB, CC, GT4 And TS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So, all you needed to do was take a picture of me mingling with you to leak to the nobles. That way, they stop trying to find out what happened to me," Blueblood summarized after Thorax was finished speaking.

"Precisely," Thorax said with a nod. "But we can't take the picture now. With how you look, it would appear that we beat you up for a deal, or something."

"Well, no, not really. It all depends on the context," Blueblood mused, looking at both him and Celestia. "Look, from what I’ve gathered, my past self was, in short, a sociopath. So if I really was like that, then that means that meeting with changelings would be more than just searching for allies and ignoring the ones that I had. It would be a way of entertaining myself."

"What do you mean?" Celestia asked.

"This is how I imagine my story will have to go: the meeting would go as planned, just like you told me, but this wouldn't be about helping them enter into noble society. It will be about them crawling at my hooves, seeing who can be the most useful to me. Then I would let the others beg as much as they want, only to refuse their petitions, leaving only a few to serve me as my pawns."

Thorax blinked and his jaw dropped slightly. "...That sounds horrible!"

"And in-character," Celestia admitted in shame. "Since puberty, I don't recall Blueblood having any kind of real friends, just ‘assets’ and ‘contacts’ to do whatever he needed, whenever he needed it."

"And that is what we need to do to keep making Equestria believe that was what happened, so we can spread rumours of me finding new pieces to use,” Blueblood added. “Maybe just deliver a 'leaked' list of options to the public with some of the names crossed out, indicating that they 'didn't make the cut'." He looked down at his injuries. "And that will be the moment that my wounds come into play."

"What do you have in mind, nephew?" Celestia asked, her interest thoroughly piqued.

Before Blueblood could answer, Red Heart entered the room. "Excuse me, Your Highnesses?"

When their attention was all on her, she cleared her throat and continued, "Visiting hours are over. I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I have to ask you both to leave."

"I understand, Nurse Redheart, but can't you give us a few more minutes? This is rather important," Celestia pleaded.

The nurse shook her head. "I’m sorry, but rules are rules, and the prince needs his rest. Tomorrow morning he can be discharged, but for now, he needs to remain here in observation."

"But…" Celestia began to protest.

"Auntie, it’s ok, I can tell you tomorrow,” Blueblood assured her. “Although...it might actually be better if I don't tell you everything at once."

Celestia raised an eyebrow. "What? Why?"

"Don't take it personally, auntie, but it’ll help a lot if your surprise is more genuine with my story, and well..." He hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "I was told that your acting skills...need some work."

"Are you saying I can’t act? Who told--?" Celestia paused mid-sentence and her eyes narrowed in suspicion. She then turned and glared out the window at the moon in the sky. "Luna..." She hissed as Redheart lightly pushed both her and Thorax out of the room, the latter taking the changeling necklace with him.

"Get well soon, Blueblood,” Thorax said, waving as he left. “We’ll come for you first thing in the morning."

Blueblood waved back. “See you there,” he called after them, chuckling as Redheart had to pull Celestia back from re-entering the room. He then stifled a yawn and laid his head back against the pillow to get some sleep.





In the waiting room

"We need to tell her, Twilight," Applejack said once everypony was sitting in a circle. Rarity had, by this time, recovered once more and was in a less faint-y mood, and was currently scowling. Spike still kept the magazine fan ready, just in case.

"I agree, but do you think this is the right time?” Twilight argued. “I mean, you saw how she reacted with what happened this morning, Faust only knows what she will do if she finds out that at some point her nephew almost died, and that experience is probably what made him the way he is now."

“She still has the right to know, Twilight." Rainbow chimed in. "At least, I know that if something had happened to my mom or dad and you knew, I’d be peeved that you had just decided not to tell me."

“Language, Dashie!” Pinkie exclaimed. Rainbow rolled her eyes.

"I think I’d be very sad if something like that had happened to me, even if I would be sad when you told me,” said Fluttershy. “At the very least, I’d be happy knowing I can trust you...n-not that I don’t trust you, Twilight..."

"Yeah, Twilight! Besides, it’s Princess Celestia we’re talking about, I'm sure she can handle it just fine," Pinkie agreed with a cheerful nod.

Twilight noticed that Rarity had been unusually quiet since they started talking. "Rarity? Do you have anything to--?"

"I believe,” Rarity interrupted coldly, turning up her snout. “That I have already said all I wanted to say, and that you all know my feelings about this situation. I have nothing more to add."

"Rarity, please, I know you had a horrible night with him, but like Starlight said, it was just one night. She and Discord have done way worse things and we forgave them,” Twilight implored. She then glanced at Starlight and added, “No offense."

Starlight held up her hoof and smiled. "None taken. Besides, it’s a valid point. Tell me Rarity, if you accepted me, why can't you accept an apology from him?"

"Because even when being evil, you and Discord were still better than him," Rarity snapped. Breathing deeply, she closed her eyes and said, "Let me rephrase that. When Discord was on the loose, he just did what he always does: make chaos. That is all he knows, and all he is. For Celestia’s sake, don't you remember what Fluttershy once told us? If he doesn't perform acts of chaos, he could quite literally fade away."

"Oh, I remember that day,” Fluttershy shivered. “It was really scary, thinking that he was gone forever."

"And as for you Starlight,” Rarity continued, pointing at her. “Yes, you did all of those horrible things, but even when brainwashing us, you never once looked down on us."

“I destroyed the world,” Starlight deadpanned. “In several timelines.”

"True, you did destroy the world several times. Yes, you wanted to break up our friendship. However, you never considered us lower than you, or not even worth your time. That 'prince'," Rarity said, practically spitting the word, "Is no better than Tirek, Sombra, or Chrysalis! No, scratch that, those three had actual power to back up their actions and claims! He is just a spoiled, full-grown brat that is never going to change, and the only thing he does is use others for his whims. He gets no sympathy from me."

Rainbow whistled. "Geez Rarity, that's a bit harsh, don't ya think?"

"He made me give him a piggyback ride the moment we met!" she yelled back, shivering in disgust. "And what's more, he made me pay for his food! He is still the same bratty, snooty colt as before."

"Uh, Rarity?” Spike spoke up, and immediately wished he hadn’t, but it was too late now. “No offense, but in both cases you were the one refusing to take 'no' for an answer."

She glared at him, and he shrank back. She then turned her snout up again and declared in indignation, "That may be. However, if he really had a near death experience, I say he got precisely what he deserves, and if he really wants my forgiveness, he’ll have to do better than that."

Twilight sighed. "Please, at least give him a chance, Rarity. He really has changed."

"We shall see," Rarity said, her tone one of finality. She spun around in her seat and crossed her forelegs with a huff.

Starlight coughed into a hoof. "Ahem, well, if we can get back to the subject at hoof, I might have another point to add. This near death experience might be the clue to his amnesia. I mean, we’ll definitely have to investigate further, but if we think of the side effects, perhaps we could find the reason he lost all his memories."

"I think I heard of something like that,” Twilight remarked. “It’s called a self-preservation coma, and it's mostly when the brain just...shuts down everything and puts the patient in a catatonic state in a last ditch effort to save their lives. Once the danger passes, it usually goes back to normal."

Starlight thought it over, but then remembered the incident at school. "I don't know, Twilight. There are some things in there that just don't add up."

"We can investigate that when the time comes,” Twilight conceded. “For now, we need to make a decision: would it really be wise to tell the princess?"

All of the girls nodded in solemn agreement. Then, after a surprised double-take, they realized that Rarity was nodding alongside them. She met their stares with one of her own, and she frowned. "What?” she grumbled. “As much as I despise him, if it serves to give the princess peace of mind, I say it's for the best. I’m not doing this for him."

"Then I guess it’s decided,” Twilight said. “Once she comes back, we’ll tell her."

"Tell me what?" Celestia asked as she and Thorax walked in.

Most of the girls jumped in surprise, and Spike rolled his eyes. “Saw that coming,” he quipped.

"Princess Celestia,” Twilight greeted. “How is Blueblood doing?"

"He’s fine, just tired, so he’s going to spend the night here,” Celestia answered. “Tomorrow morning we’ll be picking him up. I must apologize for monopolizing the visiting hours."

"Don't worry none, princess, ya needed to talk with him,” said Applejack. “And speakin’ about talkin’...we need to discuss somethin' with ya." She nudged Twilight lightly. "Go ahead Twilight, tell her."

Twilight sighed and approached her former mentor. "Princess, there’s something you need to know about Blueblood."





At Jet Set and Upper Crust’s mansion

In a mansion set high above much of Canterlot, a gathering was taking place in Jet Set’s office, with a veritable who’s-who of nobles looking at a map of Equestria with keen interest. A unicorn stallion with gray fur and a black mane crossed out another city on the map before leaning back in his chair and sighing. "Another failure," he said in disappointment. "He isn't in Las Pegasus either.”

"Say, Jet Set honey," a unicorn mare with light pink fur and a red wine mane and tail spoke up, catching everypony’s attention. "Don't you think that perhaps we’re looking at this all wrong? Who's to say our princely friend isn't just out having a private fling with some of his maids?"

"Oh please, Scarlet Lips," Sharp Shot chided. "Do you really think someone as elitist as him would go after a lowly, common maid? No matter how beautiful a mare is, we all know Blueblood only goes for noblemares. Nothing more, nothing less, nothing but."

"Oooh, maybe the princess of another nation then?" Scarlet Lips suggested with excitement. "That would certainly be a delicious piece of gossip, with a twist at the end! The brave prince, having to fight off the pretender dragon to win the hoof of the gorgeous princess." She swooned, and fell back into the pillows of the couch she sat on.

Sharp Shot rolled his eyes. “You idiot, dragons may be brutish thugs, but they aren’t so stupid as to kidnap princesses. Besides, their new Dragon Lord actually has a brain, and she’s allied with us.”

“Let me dreeeeeam!” Scarlet Lips whined.

"Moving on, what options do we have left?" Jet Set asked Sharp Shot as they and the rest of the nobles continued to look at the map. "Appleloosa, Manehattan, and...Ponyville."

The nobles glanced at one another before breaking their practiced masks of unreadability and roared in laughter. "Oh sure, Ponyville, like he would be caught dead in that monster-infested dump!" Upper Crust joked, crossing out Ponyville’s name without a second thought.

“You might as well cross out Appleoosa too,” Jet Set added. “That dust bowl only has home-grown hicks and apple-obsessed mules.” Upper Crust nodded and scratched out Appleoosa as well.

"So that only leaves Manehattan, then. You have contacts there, right Fort Nox?" Jet Set asked, turning towards a large earth pony stallion with a formal suit and fedora who was eating a carrot stick.

Fort Nox swallowed a piece of his carrot and replied, "Yeah, I got some of my sources dere, but dat place is pretty big. It’ll take some time before I can get back to yous."

"How long?"

He shrugged. "Let's say four days, tops. Dere’s always a meetin’ here and dere popping up in the city, and it can be confusin’ just keepin’ track of things."

"That’s acceptable," Sharp Shot said with a grin. "Now, does everyone know what to do once we find him?" They all nodded.

"Oooh, I wanna keep him allll for myself," Scarlet Lips sighed, fluttering her bedroom eyes. Sharp Shot groaned and face-hoofed.

"I’d be more dan happy just to be in control of his pocket book," Fort Nox rumbled.

"And we’ll be taking care of his status," Upper Crust said with a sinister grin.

Sharp Shot nodded. "Perfect, then it’s decided. We’ll keep on the lookout for further movements and, just in case, one of us should go to Appleloosa and see if he shows up there."

"Why would he even be dere?" Fort Nox asked with a raised eyebrow. “Remember what Jet said?”

"That’s where I would go if I wanted to do something in secret and seclusion, dusty and worthless as it may be," Sharp Shot explained. ​"He was already a moron when it came to being subtle, and now that he has no brains at all...who knows?"

Fort Nox shrugged. "Heh, well den, can't argue with dat logic."

"Sharp Shot, sweetie, you haven't told us what you would like to take from this little enterprise of ours," Scarlet Lips said, rolling onto her back on the couch and staring at him with half-lidded eyes. "It’s not proper to leave a lady in suspense. Please, you gave it enough build up, just tell us what’s on that wonderfully handsome head of yours."

Sharp Shot scooted away from her. "First off, somepony get this gold-digging trollop away from me.”

Said “trollop” playfully stuck her tongue out at him and winked.

“And secondly, to answer your question,” Sharp Shot continued. “Let's just say that with his influence I have some plans for the Wonderbolts."

"Oooh, is some old war hero wishing to have his position back on the team?" Scarlet Lips teased.

"Coming back? Please, my plans are hardly so minor. I have big plans. Plans your pea brain couldn’t even fathom."

"You don't say? Well now, you’ve just piqued my interest; tell me more," Scarlet baited him.

Sharp Shot chuckled and walked away from the group. "Come now, Scarlet, that just wouldn't be wise. Besides, what is it that you always say when you write those romance novels of yours? Always leave them…” He paused, turning his head and smirking at her. “...wanting."

She let out a huff in exasperation and rolled onto her belly once more with a pout. "Oh, you tease."

"Well, I suppose that’s that for the meeting for now," Jet Set concluded, rolling up the map and hiding it in his desk. "We shall continue as soon as Fort tells us what he finds."

Fort Nox nodded and slipped off his chair, walking over to the door. "Yous can count on me; my ponies always find their target."

"Sleep well, you two. Ta-ta!" Scarlet got up and left the room with a less-than-subtle sway in her shapely hips, which caught Jet Set’s attention.

Upper Crust jabbed him in the ribs with an indignant hoof. "Jet!"

"What? Don't go and say that she didn't do that on purpose," he defended himself. This, he would find out later, was the worst possible thing to say to his wife.

Unbeknownst to them, a Night Guard had discreetly been spying on them the whole time from the shadows outside the window, and sighed in disappointment and disgust as the nobles left their meeting.

Bunch of jackals...better report this to the commander.





In the dream realm

In a calm field of grass, where there was only a single tree rising for miles, the prince admired the stars of the night sky, feeling the cool breeze of the wind on his fur while resting under the tree. Having a peaceful dream for once was a nice change of pace, he decided as he closed his eyes. Before long, however, he felt he was no longer alone, as soft hoofsteps slowly approached him.

The prince sighed and opened his eyes, seeing Princess Luna sitting in front of him with a neutral expression. "Princess Luna," he greeted cordially.

"Nephew," she greeted him back, keeping to her emotionless stare.

"Let me guess, you already know what happened, right?" Blueblood asked, already knowing the answer.

The princess nodded. "I was informed of it, yes."

"Are you here to reprimand me too?" he asked. "Princess Celestia already--"

Luna stopped him by lifting her hoof. "I'm not here to say what has already been said. I'm not angry, nephew, just disappointed. And hurt," she said before breaking eye contact, looking away in sorrow.

"Princess, I'm sorry. What happened to the prince...this was the safest route I could take,” Blueblood tried to explain. “I didn't know where I could possibly find a hydra, let alone sneak into their den and just--"

"Blueblood, stop!" Luna screamed, staring at him with tears in her eyes. "Please, nephew, just...stop this. This quest of yours, the lies, the schemes, the self-degradation, all of this! It has to stop…please stop treating me and Celestia like we aren’t family."

“But princess, I’m…” Blueblood began.

“No.” Her expression turned to anger and she pointed at herself. "A different soul or not, you are still my nephew and I'm your aunt, so even if you don't believe it, just forget formalities and address me as such."

The prince raised a hoof, then looked away in shame. All he could feel was intense guilt, and it was stopping him. "I…I want to," he whispered, lowering his limp hoof. "But I can't."

"Why? Why is it so hard for you to just accept that you have a second chance, that you can start again? Just like you promised your father."

"Because doing it like this would mean condemning another soul!" he shouted back.

"And I told you, there is no soul that you are oppressing!" she retorted, spreading her wings wide.

"What?"

She folded back her wings and sighed, "All these talks we have, all these nice dreams I gave you...I didn't just do it to help you feel at peace, nephew. I heard your story and I believe you; trust me when I say I do. But if you really thought that another soul was trapped in here, I was going to help you find him, and that is what I did. From top to bottom I searched, yet I couldn't find anything, not a single piece of Blueblood’s soul was amiss. I managed to recollect all of your memories, maybe even awaken some past experiences along the way." She gave a small snort of amusement and smiled sadly at him.

Blueblood’s eyes widened, realization dawning in his mind. "The flip in the school...that was you? But…that was before we talked."

Luna nodded, "I might have been too busy to talk face-to-face back then, but at the very least I could help ease the pain on your mind," she explained, tapping her own head. "And that is what I did, I apologize for startling you back there."

"It…it doesn't matter; doing so saved me from some injury," he said before shaking his head. "No, we’re getting away from the point. Pri…Luna, are you sure? I mean, this is the dream realm, maybe it’s just my mind. Yeah...perhaps you have to enter another one, yeah that’s it. Just need to get out, check the entrance and find the other…"

"Blueblood, listen to me!" Luna grabbed both of his cheeks with her hooves. "Any option that you’re thinking of, I already did. I have lived for countless millennia. Tartarus, I wrote the book on how to approach this situation, possession, and dreams alike! If I couldn't find anything, it’s because there isn't anything to find."

She let him go. "Your past self is gone for good. You might have started as a ghost, or awoke as a former life, or maybe you were some kind of dream. I don’t know, and frankly, I don’t care anymore. I don't know how it happened, but it doesn't change a single thing." She put a hoof on his chest, over his heart. "This life, this body you reside in, and this family are yours, nephew, now and forever. So please, just accept it and let’s live together as the family we were always meant to be." She put her hoof back and looked at him with pleading eyes.

"I…" The prince gazed at her and then at his hoof, which began to tremble. "I want to do it, but...I can't."

Luna could feel her heart break as those words left his lips. She closed her eyes and bent her head downward so as to not reveal her tears to him. Even her mane seemed to lose some of its starlit luster. "Do you truly hate us that much...?" she whispered.

Blueblood immediately went into damage control mode. "Of course not! Luna, what you’ve given me, even if short, has to be one of the best experiences I have ever had. I don't want that to end."

"Then what’s stopping you from letting it continue?"

"The potion,” Blueblood sighed. “I want to be loved by you, princess. I really want to just let it go. But, if I don't at the very least confirm it, if I don't at least try it once, I would never be able to live with myself knowing that maybe another pony is trapped in his own body and I just took over his life."

The princess sighed and lifted her head up once more. "If you complete this task, can I have your word that you will end this quest?"

The prince nodded. "It’s the only thing I ask: one final confirmation."

Luna sighed and spread her wings. "Then so be it."

She ignited her horn, and before the prince realized what was happening, he awoke again. This time, however, the Princess of the Night was waiting for him in the room with a golem made of stone in the shape of a human, and a vial with some purple substance in it.

"For your mental health, and because I'm worried you would continue to put yourself in danger if I don't, let’s give you that final confirmation you crave," she said, levitating the potion towards him

Blueblood stared at the vial, perplexed and amazed. "How?" he asked, looking at Luna in surprise.

"I kept my distance, believing that you wanted to gather the materials alone, and later on, you would just ask for help for the most difficult ones," she explained in a stern tone. "You only needed to ask me once, and I would have gladly brought them all to you. I have a whole cabinet full of ingredients ready for nearly anything, for pony’s sake!"

The prince felt his face flush, and he gave a lopsided, sheepish grin. "Okay, now I just feel stupid."

"As you should,” Luna chided. “Did you ever think about where you would even put your soul afterwards?" She pointed at the golem, and when no answer was forthcoming, she continued, "Without a soul jar to contain your soul when you performed the spell, you would have been lost forever. This is the last time I ever let you practice arcane magic without express supervision from a trained professional.”

The prince nodded and lifted his hoof to grab the vial, but the princess retracted the potion and narrowed her eyes at him. "And I mean it, nephew; this is the final time. You’ll have your confirmation, and once you are satisfied, I don't want to hear any more talks about you being a possession, do you hear me? You will accept things as they are and let yourself be a part of this family."

"Will do, Pr…"

“Ah-ah-ah!”

"…Uh, I mean A-aunt Luna."

She sighed, giving him the potion. "We’ll work on that later. For now, let’s put an end to this."

After a nod, the prince downed the contents of the vial as fast as he could, almost gagging from the flavor more than once, until it was empty. After he was done, he gasped for some air and gagged.

"Ugh, pah! God, that really tasted like crap," he muttered as he looked at the glass. "Soooo, how long until it takes effect?"

There was no reply.

“Auntie?” He turned to face Luna, only to see that she was frozen in place, and that she and everything else in the room had taken on a monochromatic black and white hue, including himself.

He also noticed that he was no longer injured, and that his entire body looked almost foggy.

Okay, not long at all. And this is definitely weird.

He tried to stand up and walk to the golem, thinking it would just phase through him as if he was a ghost, yet Blueblood discovered his body was still solid and couldn’t enter the puppet.

"~That's not going to wooork!~" a female voice echoed in the distance in a sing-song manner before ending in a giggle, scaring the daylights out of the prince.

He looked up, discovering that there was suddenly no roof, only an endless darkness connected by four walls that just kept extending until being swallowed by it.

"Who's there? What’s going on?" The prince looked around, trying to find the source of the voice. His only answer was more eerie giggles.

The giggling continued as a hooded figure emerged from the shadows in the distance, far away from the prince’s gaze.

"Next chapter will feature me!" The creature said looking behind her.
> Meeting With An Endless (Edited By RB, GT4 And CC)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

​​After being startled by the mysterious voice, the prince began looking around his surroundings in a vain search for its origins, yet no matter where he looked, only darkness greeted him. Not only that, but the walls had been steadily moving away from him until they were consumed by shadow, leaving him, Luna, and the golem in a room the size of a football stadium.

And throughout it all, the giggles continued, sending shivers down his spine.

"Well, I have to say, this is the first time a soul has shown concern for what happened to the previous user of their new body,” the voice spoke at last, drawing Blueblood’s attention. He stared in front of him, but he could see nothing. “Consider me impressed, and that’s something harder to achieve than you might think!" This time the voice came from behind him, yet when he turned around he didn’t see anyone or anything.

"Show yourself!" the prince screamed into the void.

"Oh no, I mustn't do that! You have to guess who I am fiiiiiirst,” the voice teased, echoing everywhere.

"What? Why?" Blueblood exclaimed in frustration. Seriously, why couldn’t he just get a straight answer for once? Still, something about the voice seemed...familiar, somehow.

"Come on, it’ll be fun! I don't usually have this kind of get-together, so I wanna enjoy the occasion," the voice pleaded in a playful manner. "Now think hard, you drank a potion designed to move spirits, so who is in charge of moving them in the first place?"

Blueblood stopped and thought hard about the voice specifically. He was right, it was certainly familiar. A silhouette hiding in the dark slowly began to reveal itself. Squinting his eyes, he tried to focus better until he saw a hooded figure with a bubbly mane style. "...Pinkie Pie?"

The figure began laughing uproariously and shook her head as she stepped out of the shadows so that he could see her more clearly. "No silly, guess again, and think carefully! Here’s a clue: I'm the mare that always arrives for the after party," she told him.

Once she was fully exposed, Blueblood saw a mare that looked and sounded almost exactly like Pinkie Pie, but with fur as white as a ghost and mane as black as the darkness around her. She was wearing a black sports hoodie, and there were three chibi skulls for a cutie mark instead of the usual balloons.

Oh. Oooooh.

"…Are you…Lady Death?"

"Ding-ding, we have a winner!" The mare rushed to him, immediately revealing her face. Her eyes were black with white pupils, and she had a black skull painted on her face making her look like she just arrived from a Day of the Dead party. "But you can just call me Death, or just D if you want, no need for you to be so formal about it.” She giggled again. "Oh, this was fun, huh?"

"Wait, if you’re Death, then does that mean that I…?" Blueblood pointed to himself in fear.

"What?” Death raised an eyebrow before face-hooving. “Oh, no, no, no, no, prince, don’t worry, it's not that at all. I'm not here to pick you up." She gave an emphatic shake of her head. "No, siree! There’s a lot more party for you before I take you to the after party." Then she grinned mischievously and lightly bumped his side, waggling her eyebrows. "But I can tell you this: a lot of mares wanna meet you there, now that you’re a changed stallion. You little stud, you."

“Then what’s going on?” Blueblood pressed.

"Right, explanation! This isn’t even the realm of souls, it’s kind of like an in-between area where souls and living beings can...chat, if that makes sense. A lot of necromancers used it when they wanted to talk with their dead relatives," Death explained with a smile before taking on a more somber expression. "But that, as well as your time of death, can wait. Right now, we need to talk." She then covered his mouth with a hoof. "And before you ask, yes, I know that I don't look like the idea you have when it comes to Death or the 'Grim Reaper' as he likes to call himself. Please don't lump me together with that grumpy old sack of bones, okay?" she grumbled in frustration, and removed her hoof.

"Wait, you and he are different Deaths?"

"That’s right!" she confirmed with a little bounce to her step.

"There's more than one?"

"Well, duh! Infinite universes, infinite iterations, infinite worlds, et cetera, et cetera. Of course there’s more than one Death. Just one trying to manage all the world’s souls would be pure murder!” She blinked, then giggled. “No pun intended."

“Right…”

"But yeah, in your world, Mr. I'm-Too-Stiff-And-Grumpy-To-Let-Other-Spirits-Have-Their-Fun is in charge of the souls that arrive. While here, I'm the soul of the party." She glowed like a light bulb for a brief moment. "In fact, I might’ve been the reason that expression exists in the first place, at least in this universe."

"I have…so many questions." Blueblood muttered, utterly perplexed by her behavior.

"Oh, they all do at first when they see me, but to help you a little, just think of it like this. Dying is nothing more than the end of suffering, limitation, and, of course, mortality."

A cloud suddenly appeared under the prince’s hooves.

Blueblood blinked and kicked at the cloud, watching as some of the vapor floated away. “And...how’d we end up here?"

"....Ehh, ponies and people don’t come here to die, but logic kinda does," Death replied with some embarrassment, before they appeared in a hospital room. "But most importantly, dying marks the end of pain, and I'm just the mare that guides their souls to the best party they've ever had before moving onto their next adventure. The fact that you’re dead doesn't mean that you don't need to stop having fun, right?"

Blueblood glanced at her. "But what about the loved ones that you leave behind?"

Death turned to mist and appeared on his left. "Why do you think ghosts exist in the first place? The reason ponies are scared of them is because of trolls that took a prank way too far," she said in irritation. "Oftentimes they just want to come for a quick visit, and plus they save a seat for them when I arrive so they can have a chat with them and have even more family members that have passed while they’re waiting."

"And those that like to fight?"

"Ever heard of Valhalla? Lovely place, plenty of free entertainment."

"What about the vengeful ones? Or the ones that have some unfinished business?"

She sighed. "We all pack our things at a different pace, Blueblood. I'm a mare that likes things to be fair, so if someone was mean to you while living, I say they deserve a little scare here and there. After that, we’re good to go."

"Okay then, what about the wicked ones? Or those that were just downright evil while living?"

"Oh, I don't deal with those," she said with a dismissive hoof wave. "But yeah, Tartarus is for them. So, you see? Contrary to what ol’ Grimmy McStickinthemud said, death is not all about sorrow and sadness, it's moving onto the next stage in your existence. And I can tell you, the Book of Everyone is much bigger than Agatha Christie's Miss Marple stories. So before turning the page, why not celebrate that you’re ready to do so?"

"Let me guess, you’re in charge of the party?"

"Ha! Not even close! I’m the DJ. Here, take one of my cards," she answered, giving an exaggerated bow and passing him a business card that read:


Death, Big D., Collector of Souls extraordinaire,



Eight-time chess world champion,



DJ


He raised an eyebrow. “What’s this about chess?”

“People kept challenging me to save their souls. After a few hundred thousand games I got really good and went on tour. Loads of fun! Kasparov was a tough nut to crack, the old buzzard. I heard he retired a few years back, such a shame.”

The prince sat down, still trying to wrap his head around all that Death was telling him. This wasn’t how he thought his day was going to go. Finally he shook his head and asked, "What do they pay you?" Then, realizing what he said, he groaned and promptly face-hooved.

Death stared at him for a moment in surprise before bursting into laughter, falling on the ground with tears in her eyes. "Pay me? Okay, that was good, I’ll give you that one," she finally breathed out, standing up and wiping away her tears. "I knew I made the right choice giving you this body."

The prince’s eyes widened and he quickly grabbed hold of Death’s shoulders. "Wait, you’re the reason I ended up as a pony in Equestria?!"

"Well, duh! The mover of spirits, remember?" she replied with an exaggerated roll of her eyes. "Besides, you had unfinished business to deal with. 'Start again', right? That means reincarnation."

"But...the prince, the original prince…"

"That brat? His life ended way before you took over," she said, playing with her mane as her body phased through his hooves like a ghost.

"His life what?!" the prince screamed in her ear, making her flinch in pain and, for a brief second, transform into mist again before returning to normal.

"Yikes, ow! Please, prince, I'm dead, not deaf," Death said, rubbing one of her ears. “Although I might also become deaf if you keep screaming like that.”

Blueblood sighed and pressed his hooves to his head. "Sorry, but I…why? When? How did this happen?"

Death hummed, looking at him strangely before grinning. It was an oddly terrifying look for her. "Would you like to see what happened, hmm?"

Blueblood was too in shock to notice her strange behavior, so he nodded mutely. "Yes, please show me."

"Great! Just eat this mint and close your eyes," she proclaimed, taking a box of tic tacs from her mane and lifting one of his hooves, dropping one onto it.

Blueblood blinked, staring at the candy in confusion. "Are you serious?"

"Am I ever?” she asked with a smirk. “But seriously, don't think, just do. Time may not flow the same way here as it does in the waking world, but it’s not infinite and our time is almost up!"

He didn’t have to be told twice. Down his throat went the tic-tac, and he closed his eyes tight.

"Good, now keep them closed until I tell you to open them," Death instructed. Soon the prince began to hear things rumbling around him, Death seemed to be smacking her lips together.

"Uh, Death? What’s happening?"

"Trust me, I know what I'm doing. No peeking!"

With a mental roll of his eyes, the prince decided to leave her to her devices, and patiently waited to see what she had in store. He also mentally prepared himself for a scare.

"Okay, you ready?" she asked.

"Ready as I’ll ever be."

"In that case, open them…NOW!" she cried out.

The moment the prince opened his eyes, Death planted a huge, oddly passionate kiss right on his mouth that caught him off guard, leaving him breathless immediately. The moment their lips connected, everything around the two moved at light speed until they found themselves in some kind of vortex made of light, only stopping once Death had ended the kiss.

Gasping for air, the prince backed away and held his chest in surprise, before glaring at her. "What...the hell…was that?!"

"A kiss at the speed of light, that moves those involved in it throughout time and space!” she replied innocently, puffing her chest up in pride before looking behind her. "I challenge any of you  to top that." She waggled her eyebrows and smirked.

"Who are you talking to?" the prince asked.

"Never you mind," she quickly said, looking at him with a mischievous smile. "Anyway, here we are.”

The prince looked around and realized that both of them were transparent and floating in some kind of swamp. The water looked so dark it was as if it was made out of petroleum, and there didn’t seem to be a day or a night, just utter darkness around them without any stars or moon.

Trees were rising from the water, the tops impossible to see as they were swallowed into the void. Light blue, luminous figures were wandering around the place, almost all of them converging on the same point in the distance. A mysterious pyramid with a white spotlight at the top was illuminating the entire area.

"And where are we now?" the prince asked, looking around in awe.

"From Equestria’s perspective, we call it 'the Soul Road' or 'the Void Lake'. From your world it has other names: Hellhight, the River Styx, Purgatory, and many others. I just call it the dark swamp for obvious reasons," she explained, her voice suddenly solemn. "No matter the universe, species, or world, when someone dies, they always end up here." She then pointed at the light in the pyramid. "Do you recognize it?"

"That’s the famous light?"

"Oh, you bet --- the legendary light at the end of the tunnel, that beacon you follow that takes you to me. You see, the experience of dying could be described as diving into an endless ocean where there is no light; everything is just darkness as your soul does the swimming for you. Once you pass the line of no return, this is your next destination as well as your first obstacle."

"Obstacle?" The prince looked back at her, confused.

She nodded and pointed to a particular soul that emerged from the water. "The moment a soul comes here, there are only three options of what they can do: stand up and start walking toward the light, just like a moth to the flame." The soul illustrated this by admiring the light and moving towards it. "Which is the most common option, the light itself is particularly alluring."

Death then sighed in sadness and pointed at another soul that was just lying limp in the water. "Then there are those that die in sorrow and misery, and decide to abandon hope for what lies beyond…" To the prince’s surprise, the soul stopped shining, and from its chest a dead tree rose and started growing at a slow but steady pace. "…and transform into something else."

If he wasn’t already a ghost, Blueblood would’ve for sure become as pale as one. "So these trees are…?"

"Yes, souls that refused to walk or just decided to let this be their final resting place. Not even I know what to make out of them. They're not alive, yet I don't think they can be considered dead either. All of these trees...they just keep growing, after all," Death replied, staring up at the tree trunks.

The prince followed her gaze, but mostly kept his eyes on the souls who faded away the moment they approached the light. "And what’s the third option?"

"The wandering soul," she answered before pointing at a soul that was screaming in rage. It began to dig furiously in the water, its light turning from blue to red. "Be it revenge, unfinished business, or simply the desire to keep living, if you want to go back to your world and your will is strong enough, you will go back." As she spoke, the red soul dove into the water and disappeared. "Even if it looks like it, this swamp doesn't actually have a bottom. You can only walk here because you accepted your own death."

"I see..." the prince replied before sighing. "Death, this is interesting and everything, but why are you showing me this? What does any of this have to do with what happened to the other Blueblood?"

"Watch and see. This place exists outside of reality and time itself, and one of the advantages of being me is that I can show you this," she said, prancing into the air. She gently glided over the vast and murky waters of the swamp, descending until she sat next to a soul kneeling in the water in sorrow. A particular soul that, even being a shiny silhouette, was somehow recognized by the prince. His eyes widened in shock.

"Your Highness,” said Death, pointing at it. “Meet your soul."

"But this is…how?" he exclaimed, pointing at it and then himself. "I still have my soul with me, right?"

"Yep."

"But then how can I even recognize it?"

"It's like the effect of a mirror, they can easily trick you with a special one but you just accept your reflection,” Death explained. “The same happens with souls; you just...know. As for what you are seeing right now, remember what I said? Outside time, meaning…." She made a flourish of her hoof, encouraging him to finish the sentence.

"...Meaning that you didn't just bring me here, you took me to the moment after I died," he said slowly, realizing what was happening.

"That’s right!" she cheered in genuine happiness. "Wow, two for two, prince! You’re on fire, but not as much as your predecessor is gonna be soon enough."

"What do you mean?"

"Watch and see."

Together they watched as the human soul soon took notice of the light and was mesmerized by it. Like the other soul from before, he stood up and began to step towards it, when another soul, an equine one, shoved him to the side and ran towards it.

"Out of my way, peasant!" the equine soul jeered, and the ghostly Blueblood Immediately recognized his own voice coming from the pony that just pushed his human soul down.

"And there goes the old Blueblood, still the same, even in death," Death said, the barest hint of a sad smile on her face.

"But if he’s a soul now, how is he still able to talk?"

"Souls are like a copy of yourself, prince. If you really love something with a passion it’ll linger. And that old version of you really loved to hear his own voice, so…"

"Oh." The prince nodded in understanding as the pony kept running like hell itself was on his heels. He probably didn’t even know what was happening.

"I don't know what that thing is, but it’s mine! You hear me? Mine! Such precious light can only belong to those of royalty. Peasants have no need for such beauty, I'm the only one that can admire it, so it must be mine!" the old Blueblood yelled, laughing in triumph and self-righteous glory.

The moment he got too close to the pyramid, the pony’s soul simply combusted into a golden fire before being swallowed by the lake, scaring the daylights out of the human soul and the prince.

Blueblood’s jaw dropped. "Did...did he just…?"

"Spontaneously burst into flames? Oh yeah," Death answered him.

"So that’s what you meant when you said that you don’t deal with the wicked ones?"

"Exactly. This place knows very well who’s tainted and who isn't, and hoooo boy, that prince was just downright nasty. So, I say it was just a matter of time before a pony just ends his life, and afterwards it’s Tartarus for him, where it’s no longer my problem," Death replied, waving at the old prince. "Bye, mean and obnoxious version of Prince Blueblood," She then looked back at the human soul. "And hello to the new and improved prince."

She waved at him, but the soul instead started to back away in fear before turning around and running in the opposite direction.

"What is he doing?" Blueblood asked.

"You mean, what are you doing? I would say you’re running away from the deadly light after witnessing how it just incinerated somepony the moment they got close enough," Death answered, nonchalantly chewing an apple that appeared out of nowhere. The prince stared at both her and the apple in confusion, wondering how she could be so blasé about everything they just witnessed. She raised an eyebrow and offered the fruit to him. "Wanna bite?"

Blueblood shook his head, looking back at the fleeing soul in anger. "You mean to tell me that because of that prince I became a wandering soul?"

Death threw the fruit away, which disappeared like a mirage as they followed the human soul. "That sums it up, but this time you can't be all that mad at him. He was just like you; old Blueblood didn't know he was dead. He couldn't know that he condemned a soul, he was just being himself: greedy."

A tremor shook the swamp, unnoticed by most of the souls around them. When they looked back at the light, a gigantic skeletal hand emerged from the light and raced towards the human’s soul. Blueblood fell on his rump as the hand passed him, and Death rolled her eyes in annoyance. "And there goes Grimmy, being all dramatic, stiff, and doomy-and-gloomy again."

"What…what is he going to do to me?"

"What I’m about to do." Death pointed behind her, and Blueblood followed her gaze to see a portal appear in front of the human soul. A second Death poked her head out of the portal and beckoned the fleeing human soul into it.

Being already terrified of the approaching hand, the soul complied quickly and stepped inside just before the hand could catch it. A muffled roar could be heard, and the other Death stuck her tongue out at the hand before waving at her transparent self before disappearing in a poof of smoke. The skeletal hand made itself into a fist and shook in anger before retracting back into the light.

"To answer, why did you specifically end up as Blueblood?” Death continued. “It was because both Princess Luna and Princess Celestia made a wish for a new start. They wanted to have a nice and kind nephew, and when ponies who are pretty close to being gods make a wish, the magic behind it can be pretty powerful." Death smiled and she helped him stand up, and they soon went back to the hospital room with a burst of smoke, where Luna and the golem were waiting for them.

"The energy behind the wish was already targeting your predecessor when he died, and it might have brought him back had it been a few seconds earlier. Instead, it found you, and when I saw how your life was, I said to myself..."

She split in two and literally began to talk with herself. "We should do something."

"Their wishes even match, he’ll definitely be a better option!” 

“Plus, the old prince was a wicked soul, so the wish wouldn’t have done anything even if we wanted to.” 

“Oh, I know, let's take the human soul with us and make three wishes come true all in one go. Let’s see Genie beat that!" the other Death offered.

"Wouldn't that piss off the Grim Reaper of his world, though?"

"Ooooh, you bet it will!"

The two Deaths laughed as they merged into one once more. "Oh, if only I could have seen the face of Grimmy when I took you outside of his territory. That would have been perfect."

Blueblood hung his head and approached Luna in shame. "All this time, the fear and wariness that I was having...it was for nothing," he whispered, lightly nuzzling her side. "And I just keep hurting those that want to help me."

"Hey, don't feel too bad." Death gently grabbed his shoulder. "You were just trying to be a very nice person; almost too nice for your own good, in fact."

"What?"

Death stepped in front of him, giving him a kind but stern gaze. "All your life you’ve put the needs of everyone before yourself. That’s all well and good, but it’s also how and why your father had you under his thumb for so long. You’ve been, for lack of a better term, a doormat all your life." She shook her head in disappointment. "And being unable to accept this gift has not only hurt me, it’s hurt them too." She pointed at Luna.

"I'm...sorry, Death. I didn't mean to cause any of this."

"You want to make things right? Then for the love of the stars, stop apologizing so much and live like you want!" she exclaimed in exasperation. "Life is a party, and you’re just sulking in the corner. Come on, smile a little and don't be afraid to have fun! Let Equestria know who Blueblood really is." As she spoke, his body began to fade away, although he didn’t seem to notice.

The prince thought over her words and nodded with a smile. "I will, Death! I swear, I won’t be a doormat anymore. This time I'm going to live life just like I always wanted to."

"Now that's what I wanted to hear!" she cheered as she bounced on her hooves, her body glowing again. "This is the Blueblood I’ve wanted to see since day one! Now get out there and make me proud. Show everypony what you’ve got!"

"Will do, Death!"

"Please, call me D, all my friends do," she said as she waved goodbye. Then, as the darkness started to fade away to be replaced by color, she shouted, "Oh, and once you’re back, can you do me a small favor? Tell Discord that D is ready to cash in that favor he owes me!"

"Discord?" Blueblood asked with a raised eyebrow.

"You’ll see him soon enough; believe me, he’s impossible to miss. See ya someday later!" she yelled before fading into the darkness.





With a gasp, the prince opened his eyes and found himself once more in the hospital. This time, however, it was reality, and the colors were so vivid he had to squint a little from the brightness. With a groan, he sat up a little, wincing as he remembered his injuries.

Luna looked back at him, a hopeful smile on her face. "Did you find your answers?" she asked.

"Yeah...I did," he replied with a slow nod before suddenly rolling off the bed and rushing to her side.

"Nephew, your injuries!" The princess cried out in worry before yelping in surprise as she was tackled by a huge, tight hug from him.

"Thank you for helping me find peace,” he whispered, nuzzling her chest affectionately. “I love you Aunt Luna."

The princess looked down at her nephew in shock, but only for a moment. She then wrapped her forelegs and wings around him and whispered back into his ear, "I love you too."

Her nephew was finally home.
> To Begin Again (Edited By RB, GT4 And CC)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The trip back to the castle was eerily silent. Ever since he woke up, the prince didn't want to do anything but to follow Death’s advice and just embrace his new family like he wanted to. Yet even when he showed more affection toward his aunt Celestia, Blueblood couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn’t right, especially since she and the other Elements seemed to be distant from him.

Not out of hatred or fear, but more out of concern, it seemed. Well, except Rarity, who was continuing to give him the cold shoulder for some reason. The prince wanted to ask what was happening, but the moment his aunt told him that they needed to talk, he knew that it was something serious.

Wanting to keep it private, he kept quiet and complied with them as he was discharged from the hospital after saying goodbye to Thorax and Spike. The two of them excused themselves, saying that they needed to take care of some important business and would come back later on.

Since using magic was still dangerous for his health, Twilight and Celestia resorted to using a special magic bubble that created a mirage around him, making him look like a colt to any pony that sees him. All that and the occasional glances that Princess Celestia kept giving Blueblood were enough to make the whole walk rather tense.

The moment they entered the castle and the funhouse spell was lifted, the prince was guided to the living room where the Elements, Starlight, Luna, Cadance, and Shining Armor were already waiting for him. The chairs in the room had been rearranged to form a circle, all of them facing a couch.

Oh boy, I think I know where this is going...

"…Is this some kind of intervention?" Blueblood asked Celestia while faking confusion. Each pony went and took a seat, leaving the couch for him.

"It is, nephew," Princess Celestia replied with a nod, motioning with a wing to the couch. "Please take a seat."

Blueblood sighed but did what he was told. Once settled in, he looked around the group and asked, "Okay, so, what’s this all about?"

"Before we begin, we just want you to know that everyone here loves you, Blueblood," said Celestia.

"And we’re concerned for your well being," Twilight continued.

"That is why, if there’s something that you would like to tell us, we’ll be more than willing to listen, cousin," Cadence said with a smile, placing a hoof on her chest. "Aunt Celly and I have been talking with the others, and they told us that you might have…experienced something bad." Her expression turned to concern. "So please, help us banish our fears and tell us. Is there something you want to talk about?"

Blueblood’s eyes widened in surprise at the question as everypony’s gazes landed on him.

They know? How? I was very careful about hiding it, when did they find… The prince closed his eyes and took a deep breath. No, no more lying! Time to come clean.

The prince exhaled and opened his eyes again before meeting everypony’s gazes. "Actually, there is something that I need to get off my chest," he declared. Everypony breathed a sigh of relief and seemed more relaxed at his statement (besides Rarity, whose scowl deepened). Blueblood coughed then continued, "Unfortunately, it’s something kinda hard to explain..."

"There’s nothing to worry about, Blueblood. You can trust us," Starlight reassured him. "Whatever it is that you want to tell us, we’ll believe you."

"Plus, you have me on your side, dear nephew," Luna informed him, smiling. "You have my word that I will back you up."

"Thanks, auntie,"said Blueblood. Her words helped him relax more as he took a deep breath and weighed his thoughts, wondering how to start his story. "I don't know how much you know already, or even if you suspect it, so I'm just going to come up and say it. Not long ago, I had a…" He thought hard, not about whether he should tell the truth or not, but rather how to describe his current situation. "…a close encounter with my own death," he finally revealed, earning a collection of gasps throughout the room. "No, it was more than that," he continued with a shake of his head, before looking at everypony in complete seriousness. "I, Prince Blueblood, for a very brief period of time, actually died and then came back to life."

"Wha…what?!" Celestia yelled in alarm.

Luna reached out and put a hoof on her sister’s to calm her down. "Sister, please be still and let our nephew explain." Celestia looked back at her. "We promised that we’d listen, didn't we?" Luna reminded her.

After a moment, Princess Celestia nodded and, after taking some deep breaths, managed to sit down. "Please continue, nephew."

"Yeah, please explain, because ever since they told me about this, I’ve been having a hard time believing that you actually died," Rainbow added, crossing her fore-hooves.

"Wait, you knew?" Blueblood asked, perplexed.

Twilight nodded slowly. "We all had our suspicions at first."

"Ah can tell when somepony’s afraid, sugarcube," Applejack told him. "And when we met at the farm ya looked like ya just saw a ghost, somethin’ that by no means was easy. With all that fur of yours, Ah almost didn't notice how pale ya were." She chuckled and tipped her stetson his way.

"Also, before going out for ice-cream, you clearly looked like you had just cried," Twilight pointed out.

"And ever since the garden I’ve been having this feeling that you’ve been hiding something," Cadance chimed in.

Twilight nodded. "We all had our suspicions, but it was Fluttershy who really helped us understand.”

"Really?" The prince looked at Fluttershy.

"My little animal friends can sense when a pony has had an experience, or apparently in your case, if they’ve come back from dying," Fluttershy explained as Owlowiscious flew in and landed on one of the chairs near Blueblood. "To them, you feel like a loved one that has returned. That’s why all of them are and probably will always be so friendly toward you," she finished as Owlowiscious nuzzled his face.

"So that's why? I was kind of wondering why animals were feeling very friendly lately..." the prince said with a small chuckle before resuming his story. "But you’re right, I found out not too long ago and, well, that kind of revelation is kinda scary so I didn't want to tell you at first."

"I still don't understand," Celestia said. "How did this happen?"

The prince shook his head. "I'm afraid I don't have the answer for that one. When I realized what was happening, I was already on the Soul Road."

"I can confirm it. sister," Luna interjected, looking back at Celestia. "I don't know all the details, but when I explored his mind, his memories showed me his experience there. All of what he is saying is the truth.”

"Wait, you knew?" Celestia glared at her in anger. "And you never told me?"

"Our nephew was scared and needed to clear his mind," Luna defended herself. "I was confident that he would tell us as soon as he was ready."

"But you could have trusted me..." Celestia said, feeling hurt.

Blueblood sighed and looked away. "I was scared. I thought that if you knew the truth, you would destroy me."

"...What?!" Celestia uttered. "Why would I do something so horrible?"

"Sister, please!" Luna pleaded. "Let him finish."

"There’s more?!"

The prince nodded before addressing everyone in the room again. "Unfortunately, this is where things get more complicated, so I need you all to promise, no, to swear to me that you will believe me. Because as strange as this is gonna sound, I...am...serious," he said, marking the final words with a clap of his hoof.

The others glanced at Applejack, who rolled her eyes at them. "He’s being serious," she confirmed.

“Just checking,” said Rainbow.

"Is this by chance related to why you have lingering muscle memories that weren't there before?" Luna asked with a raised eyebrow, to which the prince nodded.

"You see, right now I'm the Prince of Canterlot, Blueblood,” the prince explained, his voice cutting out for a moment before he cleared his throat and continued. “But in my previous life...I was known as Albert Vasilios, a human being from another universe.” He closed his eyes and waited for the gasps of shock from everypony in the room, which, right on schedule, happened a moment later.

"Wait, so you’re telling us that you came from the world that Sunset lives in?" Twilight’s voice made him open his eyes and jerk his head upwards immediately.

"Wait, what?! You…you know what a human is?" he asked, not believing what he had heard.

"I’ll explain later, right now we’re talking about you,” Twilight replied, raising a hoof. “How did you end up with a human soul?"

"A-Are you, s-some kind of ghost?" Fluttershy wondered, shrinking back.

“See?" said Blueblood, pointing at her. "Right there, that’s exactly why I was so wary of telling you about this." His annoyed tone made Fluttershy whimper and back away at his reaction.

"Nephew, please calm down," Luna ordered, narrowing her eyes at him. “She didn’t deserve that.”

“Well, how do you expect me to react to a statement like that?” he retorted. “Especially since, for a long time, I thought I actually was a ghost!”

"Yeah Blueblood," Rainbow Dash echoed, crossing her hoofs. “How exactly do you expect us to react to a statement like that?”

Blueblood froze, and his mouth opened and closed like a fish for a moment before he nodded and looked away.

"If you’re telling the truth and you are a human,” said Shining. “How did you end up in that body?"

"And, more importantly, where is the original Blueblood?" Cadance asked with a raised eyebrow.

The prince sighed and kicked at the floor. "That is the only thing I don't know. The only thing I know for sure is that he and I ended up on the Soul Road at almost the same time." He then looks at the princesses. "Then you made a wish on a shooting star that was aimed at him, yet instead of its original target, it found me, and in doing so, brought me back to life."

"...And Blueblood?" Princess Celestia whispered. In her heart she knew the truth, but she wanted to hear it from him.

Her fears were confirmed once he shook his head in shame. "I'm sorry, auntie...everything happened so fast. The last time I saw him, he…" The prince closed his eyes at the memory, which was still fresh in his mind. "…he got too close to the light, and was engulfed in flames before disappearing."

The room fell into stunned silence. No one really knew what to say or think, or how they should react, until the prince tried to grab Celestia’s hoof. "Aunt Celestia, I…"

She jerked back her hoof with a glare and stood up, trotting out of the room without a word.

"Tia, wait," Luna softly called, giving chase. Looking worried, Cadance followed suit shortly after.

Twilight stood up and was about to do the same when she stopped and looked back at the prince, who just kept looking down in shame. "You should go after her as well," Blueblood stated without looking up.

"Agreed, let's go," Twilight declared, beckoning the others to follow, yet Blueblood remained seated.

"What are you waiting for, Blueblood? Let's go," Starlight urged.

He shook his head. "Right now I'm the last pony my aunt wants to see. To her, I'm just a reminder of how she lost a relative. I’m an impostor in her eyes."

"Cousin..." Twilight tried to reach for him with her hoof but he backed away with his eyes closed.

"Just go. I need a minute to process everything as well.” He looked up at her. "Alone.”

Twilight opened her mouth to object, but at Shining’s subtle shake of his head, she retracted her hoof. With a reluctant, defeated sigh, she and the others left him alone in the room, with only Owlowiscious to keep him company.

It’s done. The prince looked at a picture of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna on the coffee table. It's all in the open now. The only thing left is to wait and hope for the best.

The owl flew up to him and nuzzled his neck again, trying his best to comfort the lost prince. Blueblood could only gently pet his head in thanks.





In one of the castle’s empty guest rooms

After checking that no one was using the room, the Princess of the Sun entered, closing the curtains and locking the door behind her before kneeling in front of the bed. She remained in that position for a moment before finally letting go of her mask to whimper and cry. Memories of the good times she spent with her nephew flashed in her head as painful reminders of her failures and how, despite how hard she tried, she created a monster. Now she would have to live with knowing that her blood relative ended up in Tartarus because of her. Fear of being haunted causing her to shiver and break out in a cold sweat, the memories feeling like hot knives in her heart.

An explosion erupted behind her, and she didn’t care.

"Tia, what are you doing?" Luna asked her as she entered the room, her horn smoking from a recently-fired spell and the door lying in pieces around her.

"Luna?" Celestia asked, looking up at her in surprise. "How did you find me?"

"Come on, Tia, even if we’re not twins, I can always tell where you are. But that doesn’t matter right now --- why did you run off?"

"Lulu..." Celestia looked back at the bed in shame. "Am I cursed? Is everypony I genuinely love destined to be tormented with suffering and pain?"

"What?"

Celestia snapped back to her. "I sent you to the moon, I constantly send Twilight on life-threatening missions, our family died because of me, and their last offspring is now gone forever because I did a lousy job raising him. He isn't even given eternal rest! As we speak, he’s probably being tortured in Tartarus, and all of this is my own fault!" she cried out with tears in her eyes.

"Enough, Tia!" Luna proclaimed, jolting Celestia out of her rant. Luna sat next to her and draped a wing over her. "For pony’s sake, you need to stop with this ridiculous blame game. What happened to the old version of our nephew wasn't entirely your fault. Yes, you spoiled him, nopony is arguing that, but you also treated him with love and care befitting him. You raised him, you cared for him, and treated him royally. He could have chosen to take that love you had for him and share it with others like you had taught him, but in the end, the decision to turn into an inconsiderate, self-centered, and manipulative brat was and always will be his choice. He picked that road and nopony else made it for him. Not me, not the nobles, and especially not you."

"But Luna…"

"But nothing. Yes, justice must be served to whoever ended his life, and there will come a time when we truly will mourn his loss, but right now you don’t realize what you’re doing," Luna chided, pointing to the wrecked door frame. "Out there, there’s a scared soul with nopony to love him, and nopony he can truly call family or friends yet. One that has to suffer just as much as we did about his previous life, and you’re ignoring him."

"I’m not ignoring him! I’m just--"

"Feeling sorry for yourself? Believe me, I know that feeling more than anypony, but I never ignored my family.”

Both sisters fell silent at that, and Celestia’s ears drooped in sorrow. Luna sighed and stood up. “It's not my place to tell you, Tia," she said. "It's his story, and he has the right to tell it. But I can tell you this: just like us, the only thing he wanted was to start anew, and it took a lot of coaching and a chat with the personification of death itself for him to let go of his fears and let himself be happy. And I’ll be damned if we don’t give him that happiness."

"But…what happened to our nephew…"

"What’s done is done," Luna said. "Life goes on, sister. We both know this more than any other pony in the world. Ponies come and go, but memories last an eternity." She smiled and offered her hoof to her sister. "So let’s honor Blueblood, the real Blueblood, and his memory by welcoming this new Blueblood into our family. It might not have been like we wanted, but this is still our wish, Tia. We made this happen, and that boy deserves a chance.”

Celestia glanced down at the offered hoof, hesitating.

“Please, sister,” Luna pleaded. “Let’s be a family once more. His soul may be different, but the spirit of the old Blueblood from before he became a bully has been reformed. He is our nephew, and right now, he needs us more than ever. Please don’t push him away like I once did to you.”

Celestia sighed and nodded, taking Luna’s hoof to bring her sister into a hug. "You’re right, Lulu, and I have been a fool. We shouldn't dwell in the past anymore. Our nephew needs us just as much as we need him."

"You especially," Luna remarked with a sly smirk. "I already had my heart-to-heart with him."

"Yes..." Celestia ended the hug and gave her sister a small, playful glare. "We’re going to have a long talk about that later."

Luna chuckled and shrugged. "You snooze, you lose, sister."

"You control the dream realm!"

"My point exactly."

Celestia was about to retort when the Cadance’s voice caught their attention. "Aunt Celestia?" she asked from the entrance, as the rest of the Elements walked in with her, all of whom having worried expressions. Twilight was particularly concerned, seeing how the door was destroyed. "Are you okay?"

Celestia smiled and stepped closer to them. "Yes, I'm fine now, Cadance. I apologize for my earlier outburst."

"Aw, shucks, it’s okay, princess. We get it," Applejack replied. "Family is family, and it always hurts seein’ somepony go."

"Even if that somepony is an unapologetic, inconsiderate, egotistical, rude, petulant little…" Rarity began to rant until she noticed everypony glaring at her. "Eheheh...right, not the time, my deepest apologies,” she amended with an embarrassed blush.

"What we’re trying to say here is that this is a bittersweet moment,” Cadance continued. “It’s sad that his old version died, but at the same time he kinda came back…sort of, and he’s nicer now and wants to be a better pony."

"Yeah! Instead of only being sad that a bad pony died, we should celebrate that a very nice one arrived!" Pinkie cheered.

"Erm, I’d hold off on that last part for a while, Pinkie..." Rainbow suggested. "You know? Maybe until after this whole thing stops being weird?"

"Okie dokie loki!" Pinkie quickly said with a smile.

"Plus, there’s still so much more that I need to ask," Starlight interjected. "I mean with all that’s happened, we didn't even ask his story, or how he died or anything of his previous life. He must’ve had a very active life if he knew how to make flips like those..."

"It is indeed a very…interesting story," Luna commented, looking away. "But it’s best if he tells it himself."

Celestia looked at the group with some confusion. "And where is he now?"

Twilight sighed and looked down. "He decided to stay in the living room, princess," she replied. "He thought that you wouldn't want to see him after what happened."

Celestia winced. "Oh…I see..." She began walking to the remains of the doorway. "In that case, I should go and clean up the mess I created."

"Yes, you should," Luna whispered as she and the rest of the group followed suit.





Back in the library

In an attempt to distract himself from the tension, the prince resorted to looking around at the books on the bookshelf, trying to find something to read and stopping occasionally on a title he found interesting. Yet when trying to use a spell, the ring on his horn activated, stopping his attempt and giving him a small jolt at the base of his horn.

Gah! Stupid magic dampening ring...

The prince muttered a few curses while scratching at his horn, finally resorting to using his teeth to pull out the book. This had the unintended but not entirely unexpected result of a bunch of other books falling on top of his head. With a grunt of defeat, he crawled out of the pile, feeling a little pathetic. He flinched and closed his eyes, gingerly feeling his injuries. He’d have a large bump on his head for a few days, he imagined.

After he stood up and dusted himself off, he got quite a spook when Princess Celestia stepped into the room, looking at him with some worry. The rest of the group behind her, following her gaze.

It was a little off-putting.

"Aun…I mean, princess," Blueblood greeted, looking away. His words dug a hole into the princess’s heart. "Sorry for the mess, I'm still getting used to this whole ‘no magic’ thing. Don't worry, I’ll clean--"

Before he could pick up a single book, the princess used her magic and levitated them all back to their shelves.

"…them up," the prince finished lamely, looking between the shelf and the princess, who kept staring at him. "Look, princess, I understand how you must be mad at me right now. What happened to the prince is something I deeply regret, and I'm truly sorry for your loss.” He kicked at the floor. “Believe me, I have no intention to replace him, that would be insensitive. I...I just wanted to start over as part of a family. A real family. B-but if you want me to move out of the castle and never return, I’ll understand and…"

Before the prince could say anything more, he found himself brought into a tight, tearful embrace. "Please forgive me..." Celestia whispered in-between sniffles. "What kind of aunt am I, to ignore her nephew’s suffering? Please don’t leave me.” She pulled back and gazed into his eyes. “I’ve already felt the pain of losing a family member, please don’t make me feel it again.”

Blueblood frowned. "I don't understand...aren't you mad at me for taking over your nephew’s body?"

Celestia shook her head and choked out a sob, smiling at the end. "No...no I’m not. Because no matter how it happened, no matter what soul you have inside you, you’re still my beloved nephew, and that is never going to change. I don’t just love Blueblood, I love you."

As if a weight had lifted off of him, Blueblood felt lighter and relaxed in the princess’s embrace. He wrapped his forelegs around her and nuzzled her neck. "I love you too, auntie."

All of the gathered ponies felt their hearts warm up from the sight. Cadance put a hoof to her chest and leaned into her husband, who put a hoof around her and kissed her on the head. Twilight felt her eyes tearing up as she smiled. Pinkie and FLuttershy looked about ready to burst.

Only Rarity seemed to be able to keep a straight face. She was happy for the princess, of course, but no matter what was said or done, she couldn’t trust the prince that had broken her heart so long ago. Still, she gave a respectful nod to the princess and stayed silent.

Rainbow quickly blinked her tears away (she would deny having them later) and coughed, getting everypony’s attention. "So, do we just keep calling him Blueblood, or…?" she asked.

Everypony stared at her with unblinking eyes.

She shrugged. "Whaaaat? I just want to avoid future confusion."

The prince chuckled as he and Celestia ended their hug. "Blueblood is fine, Rainbow,” he answered, glancing wryly at Celestia and Luna. “It kind of grew on me."
> New Arrangements, Old Laws (Edite By RB, CC And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Thanks for helping me send all those letters, Spike," Thorax thanked him, as they both approached the castle, while Spike munched happily on a ruby.

"No problem, Thorax. I’d imagine it was much easier than mailing them the normal way," Spike replied as he finished off his snack. "Plus, for how crazy everything has gone recently, I’d also imagine that it’s best to contact all those noble changelings as soon as possible."

Thorax nodded as they reached the door. "I just hope we can still pull off the plan. All of them really want to have a chance at being nobles again," he said with some worry. "Some even told me that they found their cutie marks while pretending to be nobles..."

"Wow, seriously?"

Thorax nodded again as they entered the castle. "Seriously, so I'm hoping with Blueblood’s help that this could be their big chance. I’d hate to think that all of this would be for nothing in the end."

"Don't worry, I'm sure everything will work out just fine," Spike assured him as he opened the door. But before they could enter, somepony behind them called for their attention.

"Ah, excuse me…?"

Looking behind them, Spike and Thorax turned and saw two tall, slender unicorn mares. The one on the left, who had called them with a smile, had a short, spiky mane and tail in two shades of red that made it look like they were made of fire. Her fur was a light yellow color, and she was wearing a golden necklace with a sun insignia on it. Her cutie mark was a lance inside a sun. Her companion, on the other hoof, remained stoic as she looked at them. Her mane and tail were both long and dark purple with a celestial stream going through both, with her fur being dark blue. She was also wearing a silver necklace with a moon insignia on it and had some makeup on her face. Her cutie mark being a sword with a piece of a starry night contained inside the steel of the blade. Both mares looked particularly attractive, and at first glance, one could think they had come from a modeling agency.

"Is this Princess Twilight’s castle?" the yellow pony asked them, looking at the building.

"Well, yeah. Why? Do you need to talk to her?" Spike asked with a raised eye ridge.

"Not exactly..." the yellow unicorn answered. "We are here under the orders of Princess Celestia." She glanced to the side and noticed the large golden chariot Celestia usually traveled in. "And that is clearly her chariot, so do you mind if we come in? If not, can you please tell her that Amber Lance and Stellar Cut have arrived? Please?" she asked, putting her hooves together and looking at them with puppy dog eyes.

Thorax and Spike could only blink a couple of times before looking at one another. "Ah well, why don't you come in and wait in the hallway while I go tell the princess?" Spike suggested to them, making Amber smile and clap her hooves in happiness.

"That would be great, thank you!" she exclaimed as they both followed the two friends inside, Stellar remaining as stoic as ever the entire time.

Once they reached the dining room, both mares waited patiently at the entrance while the dragon and changeling went inside. There, they saw everypony sharing stories and laughing while enjoying some of the tea on the table in the middle of the room. Particularly Blueblood, who was happily chatting with his cousin Twilight, while she was hard at work writing everything he was telling her on a scroll.

The scene was enough to make the dragon chuckle as they approached the group. "Looks like the intervention went better than I thought."

"Oh hi Spike, hi Thorax." Pinkie called out as she walked toward them. "Did you manage to do that secret business you told us about?" she asked with some intrigue, making the king chuckle.

"There was nothing secret about it, Pinkie. I just needed to send some letters to some of my subjects pretty quick, and Spike helped me out," Thorax explained.

Pinkie raised an eyebrow. "Wait, wouldn't that have sent them to Princess Celestia instead?"

"Normally, yeah, but I’ve been training with my flames for the last couple of months," Spike declared with pride in his voice. "So now if I eat some gems and know the address, I can send the letter anywhere without a problem!" He paused and looked around. "By the way, have you seen Princess Celestia?"

"Oh yeah, she’s over there talking with Starlight," Pinkie replied, pointing to one of the groups of chairs where Celestia, Luna, and Starlight were talking.

"Thanks!" Spike said, waving a claw at Pinkie before approaching the princess. "Princess Celestia?"

"Oh, Spike, glad to see you again," Celestia spoke up, facing him with a smile. "How did everything go?"

"Without a hitch, Your Highness. The letters were sent," he replied. He then looked back to the entrance. "But something happened on our way back here."

"Really?" she asked with a raised eyebrow. "And what was it?"

"Well, two mares asked if they could come in, and said that you asked for them. I told them to wait in the hallway. They told me their names were Amber Lance and Stellar Cut; do you know them?"

Celestia clapped her hooves together in happiness. "Oh, wonderful, they’re here! Yes Spike, I know them both, but please, bring them here."

"Understood." Spike nodded and went to fetch both mares.

Luna, in the meanwhile, looked at her sister with a curious gaze. "You asked for those two? Aren't you going a bit overboard, dear sister?"

"Oh nonsense, Luna. Amber and Stellar could use a vacation from their regular jobs. The fact that they are more than capable of taking care of Blueblood is just a very nice bonus," Celestia replied with a wry smile. "Plus, they are the only two recruits available right now that fit…" She sighed in exasperation and rolled her eyes. "…that law."

"Ah..." Luna nodded in understanding. "Now I understand."

Soon the mares entered the room and bowed to the princesses, and Celestia started the introductions. "Everypony, I would like you all to meet Amber Lance and Stellar Cut. They are two of our best soldiers in the Royal Guard," the princess announced with pride. "And starting today, Blueblood’s personal bodyguards."

"It’s an honor to protect the crown," Amber said as she and Stellar bowed to the prince.

"Wait, what?!" Blueblood blurted in surprise as he approached his aunt.

"You thought I was joking when I said that I would place extra security on you?" she teased back, a smug smile on her muzzle.

"Oh my Celestia! Is this for real?!" Shining Armor cried, getting excited as he approached the two guards. "You…you really are Amber, the Sun, and Stellar, the Moon?!" he stammered, his mind going into fanboy mode.

Amber merely chuckled and looked away with a blush, much to the surprise (and annoyance) of Shining’s wife. "Oh boy, it has been a while since somepony called us that..." she said with embarrassment.

"You know them, BBBFF?" Twilight asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Are you kidding, Twilight?! Those two are legends among the Royal Guard," Shining proclaimed while pointing at them. "I have never been able to meet them in person, but their reputation speaks volumes. They form part of one of the greatest units of all of Canterlot! One that made me want to enlist in the Guard in the first place!"

"The Celestial Centurions," Amber supplied, pride in her voice. "The best special forces the Crown has ever had." She sent a wink Shining’s way, causing Cadence’s wings to stiffen and ruffle instinctively in a threatening manner. "Would you like an autograph, captain?" she asked, finally breaking Stellar’s stoic expression, who looked back at her companion in worry.

Shining gasped. "Would I?!" He then paused and started to think for a second. "Stay there for just a second, I’ll be right back!" he said before teleporting away. Stellar then poked Amber in irritation, much to her annoyance.

"Oh, just let it go, Stellar, he's a fan. Would it kill you to give him one autograph?" Amber asked.

Stellar stopped and thought about this, and then pointed at the prince.

"He’s in the Princess of Friendship’s castle, surrounded by four alicorns, plus the Elements of Harmony, the student of Princess Twilight, the king of the changelings, and a dragon. Please tell me, who could be so stupid as to attack him now?"

Stellar sighed in defeat and crossed her forelegs.

"Well…ok," Twilight looked at the display, confused, before approaching Stellar. "So, if I may ask, what exactly does a Celestial Centurion do?" Stellar remained quiet, much to Twilight’s dismay. "Uh, hello?

"Oh, don't mind Stellar, she is a mare of action rather than words," said Amber. "But to answer your question, we are a unit dedicated to ensuring peace in Equestria, and are in charge of solving more delicate problems that involve other nations."

Ah, so they are like the equivalent of the secret service…or the CIA? Blueblood pondered as he glanced at them.

"Basically, missions that are too dangerous or require a lot of tact to avoid a war between nations is our specialty," Amber finished.

"Hey, wait a minute!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she flew towards them. "If you deal with international missions, where were you during Tirek’s attack? Or the changeling invasion? Or Storm King's invasion?" She pointed an accusatory hoof at them.

"In that order, we were dealing with Tirek, but we didn't have the means to stop him, and it was too risky for him to absorb our magic. Plus, Discord just kept teleporting him here and there so we couldn't react fast enough. Chrysalis had already infiltrated, and sent orders to keep us away during the wedding, disguising herself as Princess Mia Amore."

"Just Princess Cadence, please," Cadence interrupted, lifting her hoof with some annoyance.

"My apologies, Princess Cadence,” Amber replied, granting her a small bow. “And while the Storm King was attacking Canterlot, we had to deal with his special monsters that he had sent after us. Golems made of crystal that turned even alicorns into stone. Do you remember those crystal balls? They produced it in their stomachs and then spat them out. So just imagine that kind of beast rampaging throughout Equestria without control. They normally turned their prey into rocks before eating them." Amber paused and gave Rainbow a look. "See Rainbow Dash? Perhaps you’ve had awesome adventures, but the world is just too big for you to have ALL of them. We just do the same you do, but on a more global scale."

"Fascinating..." Twilight murmured. "And other nations are okay with that?"

Amber let out a laugh. "Other nations have their own version of us, princess."

"What?!" Twilight cried.

The other Elements surrounded the mares, each having their own questions, while Blueblood took the opportunity to approach his aunts. "Uh, Aunt Celly?"

"Yes, Blueblood?"

"It's not that I don't appreciate the gesture and all, but...if they’re so incredible, why are you ordering them to protect me?"

"I believe that protecting a prince is well within their job description," Celestia answered, "Besides, they fit another…" She looked away in irritation "…condition that is required by law."

"Huh?" The prince turns his head in confusion, making both princesses sigh.

"Royal Decree Forty-Seven: any member attached by bloodline to the royal family must be protected and escorted by a minimum of two guards…of the opposite sex," Luna recited, facehoofing at the end.

"Who's qualities include: being in top physical health and beauty, while at the same time not being in any kind of romantic relationship." Celestia finished, mirroring Luna’s gesture.

"...That has to be some of the dumbest conditions I have ever heard. Who wrote that, a horny teenager?"

"Exactly," Luna nodded before pointing at the prince. "YOUR horny past self, to be precise."

"Oh, please tell me, I didn't?!" Blueblood cried, holding his head with both hooves.

"I'm sorry, nephew," said Luna, placing her hoof on his shoulder. "It was your first time weaseling a law into reality." Luna turned, glaring at Celestia. "And of course, your aunt Celestia was too gullible at the time to see it until it was already too late."

"He was still pretty innocent! And I thought it was a joke. I really thought the paper he gave me was a fake..." Celestia countered lamely.

"Is there any way to revoke that stupid law?" The prince asked, hope in his eyes, but to his dismay, the princesses just shook their heads.

"It’s a royal decree, so it escapes even our power. The only way to abolish it is with a unanimous vote from us, the Canterlot royal court, and…" Luna's eyes widened in realization as a smile slowly spread across her face. "…you."

"Wait, so all I need to do is go and vote 'no' and we can change this weird law?"

"Yes, we can do that Celestia," Luna answered with a smile, her sister soon copying her expression.

"Perhaps Luna. Blueblood, so far, was the biggest reason that law was still in effect. We will have to change it as soon as we return to Canterlot."

"Why not now?" the prince asked with a raised eyebrow.

"The waiting period for a law to be erased or modified is three months, and during that time it can't be implemented."

"All the more reason we should do it now, don't you think? The longer we put it off, the longer we will have to wait!"

Princess Celestia moved closer to his face with a sly grin. "Nice try."

"Aww…." the prince sighed in defeat and looked down.

Soon, Shining Armor returned, this time carrying with him in no particular order: posters, comics, a sword with Amber’s and Stellar’s cutie marks on it, as well as an ink bottle and a quill, all the while sending the mares a hopeful smile. A sly grin spread across Amber’s face and she pushed Stellar forward, before giving her the lead. Stellar glared at her friend before shaking her head, proceeding to sign all of the papers Shining kept giving her. His wife put herself next to him, keeping an eye on both mares while subconsciously placing one of her wings on her husband’s back.

"It will only be until you recover, nephew, and it could be good for them as well," Celestia continued. "Those two are workaholics, and no matter how much I insist, they refuse to take some time off. To that end, I believe that guarding you in a small town near Canterlot could help them relax for a change."

"So you're telling me that you’re also using my situation as an excuse for those two to get away from their regular jobs?"

Celestia nodded and glanced at him. "Two cakes in one bite, so to speak. Do you think you could do this for me? Please?" she asked, using her own puppy dog eyes on him.

With a sigh, Blueblood nodded. "Okay, Auntie. For you."

"I knew I could count on you." Celestia smiled as she hugged him with one of her wings.

"Uh, excuse me..." Thorax, having stayed silent for a long time, called for their attention. "Not that I want to interrupt this moment or anything, but we still need to finish our plan."

"Oh, that’s right," Blueblood said, ending the hug and approaching the king.

"I’ve already sent the letters, and soon we’ll get a reply. Do you still want us to address the meeting in Manehattan?" asked Thorax.

The prince nodded. "We would need witnesses to corroborate my injuries," he said, looking at his hooves in deep thought. "Maybe some makeup for some small burn marks here and there..."

"What do you have in store, nephew?" Luna asked in wonder, and the prince was about to answer when he paused, seeming worried about Amber and Stellar listening in. Luna noticed his hesitation and winked at him. "There is no need for you to worry, nephew. You can trust them. They already know about your condition."

That helped him relax a little, and he nodded. "Okay, in that case, here’s the plan. The first thing we need to do is…" Blueblood stopped and he looked at Celestia, who gazed back at him with a playful smirk.

"Uh, Aunty, I don't know if you…"

"Please Blueblood, give us a chance. I can do this, and contrary to what others think…Luna," she said, glaring daggers at her sister. "Performing on a stage is far different than giving a public speech, something I have more than enough experience in."

Luna sighed and shook her head. "Might as well let her try, nephew. She is telling the truth. Plus, I have seen her take some extra drama classes, so I believe she has earned the right to try, at the very least."

"Well, okay then," Blueblood nodded and started again. "Then here is what I have in mind. During the meeting, a very bad accident will occur, and from it, a hero emerges..." He tells them with a smile. "Here’s how it’ll play out..."







Later that day

After exchanging goodbyes and promising another visit in the future, all of the Royals went to the golden chariot and headed back to Canterlot, while the prince waved goodbye to all of them. Stellar and Amber were now on either side of him, doing the same.

The moment he was out of their sight, all of the Royals looked at their destination with serious expressions. "Starting an investigation will not be an easy task..." Luna commented.

"Indeed, just filing a report would force us to expose Blueblood’s condition," Shining Armor agreed with a resigned sigh. "If we wish to catch the killer, there is no choice but to make this investigation top secret."

"We can't just stop there, Shiny." Cadence noted with worry. "Whoever did this was a professional, and had planned for everything so as not to leave a trace. If they were aiming to just kill Blueblood, that leaves almost half of Canterlot as suspects. If the goal was the royal family, any of us could be next."

"Remain calm, everypony," Celestia said with determination. "Panic won’t help us. For now, we need to stay focused and act like everything is okay." She then looked at Shining Armor. "Captain Armor, can I trust you to search for clues in our nephew’s room?"

"You can count on me, Your Highness," he replied with a salute.

"Thank you." She then looked at Cadence. "While that happens, we would have to discreetly interview all of Blueblood’s inner circles, and that is a long list. I can plan meetings with them, but we will have to split the efforts between all of us."

"You can count on me, aunty," Cadence replied, bringing her hoof to her chest.

"I have soldiers already spying on them, so it would just be a matter of changing the order." Luna stated. "We’ll keep an eye on those shady nobles..."

"Thank you, Luna.” Finally, Celestia glanced at Thorax. "King Thorax, I really appreciate all that you have been doing for us so far, but I'm afraid that there is yet another favor we need to ask of you."

"Say no more, princess," Thorax declared, lifting his hoof with a knowing smile. "We’re talking about a case of regicide here, and that is a serious matter. Just say the word and I will dispatch some of my best changelings to impersonate any of you while this mess is resolved. It’s the least we can do for all your help with our hive."

Celestia smiled at him gratefully as the wind rushed past her mane. "Thank you, Thorax. I give you my word that we will not forget this kindness."
> A Tale Of Heroism (Edited By RB, CC And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was a calm morning in Canterlot when the news arrived.

It started with a simple announcement from the guards requiring everypony to gather at the central plaza, followed by the activation of a projection crystal which promptly shot a clear image into the sky. Prince Blueblood quickly appeared, surrounded by reporters and standing on a podium.

A collection of groans was soon heard everywhere as the citizens started to leave, believing this to be a waste of time. Yet their complaints quickly died out once somepony pointed out how instead of the smug smile the public was used to, the prince seemed to be more serious and calm, like he had been thinking. Not only that, but his head was bandaged and his mane was slightly burned. Overall, it was clear that he was injured and at the moment appeared to be in Manehattan, something that just kept increasing the citizenry’s curiosity.

It was clear that this was not one of his usual smug speeches where he just stroked his own ego for hours, leaving the question to linger in the air: what did he want to talk about?

All around, mixed feelings began to blossom in the growing audience, some in happiness thinking karma finally struck, some in wonder, and some even in shock seeing their 'friend' reappearing, injured and beaten.





A few minutes earlier, at City Hall

"Five minutes, Your Highness," a stallion wearing headphones over his ears and bearing a clipboard informed the prince from the door frame before moving away. The prince in question was in the middle of some breathing exercises, trying to keep calm as Princess Celestia walked inside.

"How are you feeling, Blueblood?" she asked in a motherly tone, making her way towards him.

"Oh, you know, just trying my best not to have a panic attack and make the story as convincing as possible," he replied with a nervous chuckle. "So…great, all things considered."

The princess giggled and nuzzled his face. "You’ll be fine Blueblood; the story you came up with is really convincing. Plus, with those fake injuries on you and the information we delivered, there’s no way anypony would suspect a thing after today."

"Perhaps, but then again, I'm still a bit sad that we were forced to burn that entire building for this plan to work. I mean, I was just expecting a room to burn, not the entire thing."

"Ah wouldn’t sweat it, partner," Applejack said as she and Rarity made their way inside. "As Ah told you, my Uncle and Aunt Orange bought that thing years ago as a business experiment they tried. It never took off, and was just bleedin’ bits. Honestly, buyin’ and then burnin’ it down was doing ‘em a favor. The building was too old, so renovations would’ve cost a fortune, and now the empty space can be used to build somethin’ better. Plus, with how it stands, Rarity and Coco Pommel had a reason to ask the pyrotechnics team in Manehattan to be more careful handlin’ their equipment, right Rarity?" When Rarity remained quiet, Applejack jabbed her sharply in the side.

"Yeah, thanks...Blueblood," Rarity muttered in a cold tone, confusing the prince as Applejack sighed and shook her head.

"Anyway, the point is there’s nothing to be afraid of. Ah'm not usually the one that likes to lie, but considerin’ that this is to trick those stuck-up nobles who probably would sell their own mommas for a bit or two, Ah’d say that Ah could make an exception this time,” Applejack said with a chuckle. "They’re sure gonna get a surprise."

"That’s the idea," Blueblood added with a smile, now feeling more relaxed.

The headphones-wearing stallion reappeared once more. "We’re ready, Your Highness."

Sighing one last time, the prince gazed at everypony. "That's my cue. Wish me luck."

"You’ll do great, Blueblood, don’t worry." Celestia gave him one last nuzzle before letting him go.

The walk to the podium was nerve-wracking, to say the least, as the prince could feel the eyes of everypony falling on him, judging him and rolling their eyes in expectation of the narcissist nature of his old self. A mix of anxiety and excitement was coursing through the prince’s mind. With one single speech he was about to change his new home for the better, and that idea was enough to fill his being with resolve.

Once he reached his destination, both the press and the audience put all of their attention on him, bracing for the worst. Instead, they were given a surprise.

"Citizens of Manehattan, --- no, rather, citizens of all Equestria --- thank you all for coming. The reason I gathered you all here is that I have an important message to deliver. A week ago I was contacted by my aunt for a meeting with a group of changelings, who, even though they were recently reformed, still yearned for the sweet and luxurious life that we nobles have the blessing of living in."

A collective groan was heard both in Manehattan and Canterlot, which was soon silenced by the prince as he told them the last thing they were expecting. "Yes, I know, almost all of you must be sick and tired of nobles saying that." The prince almost flinched the moment he saw so many eyes widen to the size of dinner plates, and jaws dropping left and right in front of him.

Okay, that is slightly disturbing...

"But, in their defense, if any of you got to our position, I personally challenge you not to brag about it. You say you would be humble now, but trust me, once rich it’s not so easy to avoid bragging," he quipped, earning a couple of chuckles. "Anyway, as much as I would love to continue talking about it, that is not the reason I summoned all of you here, so let’s continue. As you all might have guessed, I was against the idea of such a proposal at first but, very soon realized the potential behind it. New creatures and assets for me to use and swear loyalty to me? How could I possibly say 'no' to the sheer potential behind that?"

"That slimy, silver-tongue brat..." Jet Set hissed, holding his hoof up in anger at the image of the prince. "By Tartarus, why didn't I think of that?!"

"Oh, you naughty little prince..." Scarlet purred with a smile "You bad boy, going away without telling me a thing? Somepony is playing hard to get."

Upper Crust just sighed and gazed downward. "So much for that theory of the prince having amnesia, eh Sharp Shot?" she said, glaring at her friend as he continued to look at the image in front of them.

"By Celestia, I was so shallow and heartless," the prince continued in guilt, shaking his head. "Just like I had done before, I took this opportunity to seek subservients and amused myself as they crawled and begged for my help. I will confess to you right here and now, from the beginning I wasn't going to give any a chance, perhaps not even the small group I deemed worth keeping. Yes, I'm ashamed to admit it, but my actions during that meeting were less than friendly, but you can take solace…"

He stepped out from behind the podium so the ponies could see the full extent of his 'injuries' which, even if not permanent, were still numerous. "…poetic justice was imparted that night." The audience wanted to boo and yell at the prince, but looking at his condition, they just couldn't find it in their heart to voice their opinions.

"Oh, you’ve got to be kidding me!" Rarity whispered harshly as she and Applejack were behind stage seeing everything unfold. "They’re really eating this up?"

"Rarity, please, shhh!" Applejack silenced her with a small glare. "Ah know you're not in his fan club but at the very least think of the changelings."

Rarity bit her tongue and looked away. "I'm sorry for this, Applejack, but it’s Blueblood we’re talking about, and he’s getting his way once again."

"Rarity, he isn’t…" she stopped herself, glancing at the prince and then back at her friend. "Can we please not do this here?"

"Fine!" Rarity snorted as she marched away.

"Rarity, wait!" Applejack was about to go after her, but ultimately sighed and let her go, thinking she only needed some air, while ignoring a certain stallion in a suit looking at them both with a raised eyebrow.

The press didn’t miss the chance, and Blueblood let hundreds of photos be snapped of his body, resorting to closing his eyes and letting them have as many as they wanted. When he heard them stop, he opened his eyes again and stood back behind the podium to resume. "I don't know how the fire started in the first place, and to be honest, I couldn't care less at the moment."

He hung his head in shame. "My mind hasn't let me forget the events that transpired that night. Everything happened so fast, and like a coward, my first instinct was to run away to the nearest exit, not caring for the safety of my companions, and in my rush I ended up underneath a pile of stone and burning wood. Panic and flames were everywhere, and when I was about to curse all the changelings for letting me die, I was met with an unexpected surprise."

The prince paused to build dramatic tension, and saw how all of the audience subconsciously moved their heads forward, waiting for the end.

Perfect, I got them exactly where I need them. Time to bring it home.

"One of the changelings that I previously shamed and laughed at returned to that hell until she found me. Not only that, she was one of the unlucky ones that got a particularly nasty bit of verbal abuse from me when I rejected her wishes to be one of the first changeling nobles, something that I could see she still remembered very clearly. It was a moment of revelation for me, and for the first time in my life I saw the consequences of my actions and the full extent of how much my words could hurt somepony. Ashamed, the only thing I could do was look away. No pony or changeling would have said a thing, she could have easily walked away and left me to die in that inferno. It would have been an accident; clean, well-deserved justice. Instead, she chose to save my life. A changeling who I humiliated and whose heart I had broken, against any logic or reason, had decided to save me. Prince Blueblood, the royal prick of Equestria."

Everyone gasped and more flashes went off as the press went nuts over his story. The prince kept a solemn and calm face as he closed his eyes in thought, remembering the events before looking at everyone again.

"No matter how much I try, that image remains in my head, even now. Even when I didn't show any friendship toward that changeling she still offered hers to me, and thanks to that, I could see the teachings that my aunt and cousins were so proud of in action. In the past I thought that the idea of friendship was just a cute slogan to attract allies or give false confidence to your enemies, but now, for the first time in my life, I can see its true power and the importance of it."

His expression turned into one of more determination. "Recently, Twilight Sparkle opened a school that welcomes all species wishing to learn about friendship, one of the most important values here in Equestria. Today I say that we must follow her example and let others join into our culture and ways of life." He glanced to the side and extended his hoof. "And with that, I want to welcome and officially introduce the first noble changelings of Canterlot.” From backstage three changelings walked in, one green, another red, and another orange, all of them waving at the audience as they cheered, and the reporters once more went wild. Princess Celestia also appeared, carrying a medal with her.

"Jade, Temptress, and Mirage," Blueblood said, pointing at them in order. "Great and passionate changelings who wish to become part of the world of jewelry, modelling, and couples counselling of Canterlot," he announced, pointing at Jade, Temptress, and Mirage respectively, the last one confusing everyone and making the prince chuckle. "I will let Mirage explain soon enough. For now, I wish them and all the other families of changelings that want to join good luck." With a smile adorning his face, he took the medal in his own magic and thanked his aunt, before presenting it to Mirage. "Consider this as my personal thanks for saving my life and helping me realize my mistakes,"

"There is no reason to thank me, Your Highness, I just did what anyling would have done." She bowed and let the prince give her the medal before he brought her into a hug. "The press is going to eat you all alive very soon, you know that right?" he whispered into her ear with some worry. 

"Let them try, Your Highness, we’re ready for them," Mirage whispered back confidently. "Thank you for giving us this chance."

"Anytime." Once the hug ended, he went and shook the hoof of the other changelings who smiled, and brought him in for a hug as well, and once finished the prince stood back. "I will let these lovely ladies answer any of your questions now. Oh, and ladies, feel free to jab your husband’s ribs now for staring at Temptress too much."

Much to the prince’s surprise, those that didn't laugh actually did what he told them, as he left the stage and let the changelings be swarmed by the press, all of them dealing with it like professionals.

Once he was sure that no eyes were on him, the prince let go of a breath he didn't know he was holding and knelt on the ground from the pressure. "Oh God, that was a terrifying experience..."

Celestia approached him and helped him to his hooves with a warm smile. "It's never easy, right?"

"There ya go, partner," Applejack said to him, fanning the prince with her hat. "Just take a deep breath."

"You were spectacular out there, Blueblood! Not only did you find a way to re-introduce yourself into society, but also help King Thorax and his people be a part of the nobility!" Celestia beamed as she looked at the changelings dealing with the reporters. "Something tells me that things are about to change for the better very soon."

"I really hope so," he replied, still a bit shaken up.

Celestia smiled and gave him a small push. "Why don't you go to your dressing room and get some rest? We can go for some ice cream after this."

"Do I need to go back out?"

Celestia giggled and shook her head. "I’ll just tell everypony that you are still weak from your injuries and need to rest, there is nothing to worry about."

"I love you, auntie," said Blueblood, giving the alicorn a small kiss on her cheek before going to his dressing room.

"Have to say, princess, Ah like this prince. So far my experiences with nobles, minus Shining Armor, have been...well, pretty rotten," Applejack admitted once he was out of earshot.

"It’s a nice change of pace, isn't it?" Celestia agreed. Then, noticing somepony was missing, she began looking around. "Have you seen Rarity?"

Applejack sighed and shook her head. "She’s probably outside ventin’, or somethin’.” She glanced back at the princess. "Out of all of us, she seems to be the one most against this new Blueblood."

"I see..." Celestia murmure. "That is disheartening to hear."

"Aw, don't feel bad, princess. Ah'm sure she’s just bein’ stubborn; she just needs time to cool off. She’ll eventually come around," Applejack dismissed her concerns.

"Let’s hope so."





In another room

Stellar and Amber received the prince with shared smiles, with Stellar even giving him a bottle of water. "You were incredible back there, Your Highness. Everypony loved your speech," Amber said.

"Thanks." He took the bottle and started to drink before spitting it out everywhere in fright, discovering Rarity sitting on a chair. "Oh, Rarity, it’s just you. Boy, you just gave me a scare," he said with a chuckle as he held his chest, but she remained stoic, confusing the prince. "Rarity?"

"You think you've won all of them over, do you?" she muttered, not looking at him and instead deciding to admire her hoof.

"...What?"

Rarity stood up and started walking around him. "Must be nice, right? The princesses love you, the Elements like you, you’re surrounded by supermodels…" She glared at Stellar and Amber, who looked puzzled. The rising tension in the room put them on edge, and they drew closer to Blueblood and Rarity, sensing her as a potential threat. "…and now Equestria thinks that you’re this poor little prince that wishes to make things right," Rarity finished.

"Rarity, what’s happening?" the prince asked, approaching her. "Why are you acting so weird?"

"Acting weird?" She glared daggers at him. "So far, I think I'm the only one acting normal around you." She jabbed her hoof into his chest once, causing Amber to act and place herself in between the two.

"Okay, that's enough."

"You stay out of this, Amber!" Rarity yelled at her. "This is between me and that miserable colt there." She pointed at Blueblood.

"What?" Blueblood looked at her, annoyed. "Okay, that is it. Seriously Rarity, what’s your problem?"

"My problem? I’ll tell you what it is. I'm angry that a certain prince who I wanted out of my life forever for utterly destroying my heart suddenly reappears and thinks that he can do whatever he pleases."

"I told you, the prince you knew is gone," Blueblood replied, taking a step forward toward her in anger.

"Is he really gone?" Rarity retorted, matching his expression as their foreheads met. "You sound like him, look like him, and just now, you acted like him. If you could tell a lie with a straight face like you did just now, why would I believe anything you said during your ‘confession’?"

"I didn't lie."

"Forgive me for finding that hard to believe."

"So, what? After everything you’ve seen, you honestly think this is just some trick? To do what? What do I gain from any of this?"

"Oh no, prince, I believe that you have a new soul, I just don't believe that that’s enough to make you change. The princess said that you were once a nice colt; what guarantee do I have to tell me that you will not revert back to being a jerk after a while?"

"Wow, you really know how to hold a grudge, don't you? Seriously, what horrible thing did my predecessor do to you? Because according to Sweetie Belle, I was just an ass that made you do everything and then messed up your dress."

In that instant, Rarity slapped him so hard that it drew blood. "Don't you EVER say my sister’s name again!" she snapped as his guards gathered next to him, glaring at Rarity.

"Twilight told me to give you a chance, so this is it. I’ll stay out of your way and just watch from the sidelines to see how you will crash and burn like the bastard you are. But I warn you now, ‘Your Highness’, if you dare to hurt my friends, I don't care what happens to me. I will make sure that your life will be destroyed." Her threat having been given, she moved toward the door.

Amber was about to go after her but the prince held up a hoof to stop her. "Let her go..." he grumbled.

"But Your Highness, she just attacked you!"

"I know that," he said, cleaning his face. "But responding with violence towards a simple slap from a potential friend would just prove her ridiculous point. If she thinks I will stoop to her level, she has another thing coming." He winced as Stellar began treating his wound. "I'm sick and tired of trying to please everypony around me. If she wants to spend the rest of her life loathing and being embittered, then so be it. I'm the master of my own life and I will live it as I please," he vowed with a glare. He then froze and sighed, glancing at his guards, who were staring at him with worry etched on their faces.

He smiled and approached the two. "Let's not think about it anymore. Now tell me girls, what is your favorite flavor of ice cream?" he asked, trying to change the subject.

Meanwhile, outside the room, a stallion began to stalk Rarity from the shadows as she made her way outside the building.
> Prices and Values (Edited By RB And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“So Miss Rarity, what d’ya say? Shall we work together?” Fort Knox asked the Element of Generosity with his front hooves crossed, a charming smile on his face. The two of them were enjoying a cup of tea in the cafe near the city hall. “We share a common enemy here; don’t ya wish to end his nonsense schemes and put the prince in his place?”

Rarity finished her drink and looked the stallion up and down with a critical eye before putting her cup down. "Well, Mr. Fort Knox, as much as I agree that a certain petulant prince needs to be taught a lesson, I don't think I can be of any help," she said in a respectful manner.

"Nonsense! Miss Rarity, with your aid, I'm more dan confident dat we can both find the prince’s weakness and exploit it for our common goals," he insisted as his smile grew wider, revealing a golden tooth. The stallion was certainly starting to unsettle Rarity a bit. "Just try to picture dis scenario: the snotty and unfit prince brought to his knees and forced to kiss your hoof anytime he wants to do anythin’. The entire world of Canterlot’s nobility would be opened for youse, and your clothin’ line worn only by the most elite of ponies."

"I’ve already achieved that," Rarity grumbled in irritation.

Undeterred, Fort continued with his sinister tirade. "Dat buffoon would be turned into our personal puppet like he should’ve been from the get-go..." He extended his hoof toward her, and Rarity recoiled slightly at the sight. The pony was charming but insidious, almost like the Devil in disguise. "Doesn't dat sound incredible, lady? All dat and more can be yours, if youse just tell me what secret youse and your friends are hidin’ about our...beloved prince."

Rarity raised an eyebrow, and her thoughts began racing. Her pursed lips slipped down into a frown, and her eyes flashed briefly in anger. "You were spying on us?"

Fort Knox chuckled and pulled his hoof back. "Come on, lady, dere’s no reason for youse to act so surprised, it’s just honest business. And please don't be a hypocrite and tell me dat youse haven't indulged yourself in a bit of gossipin’." He brought his cup up and started to sip from it before opening an eye. "We’re both ponies of nobility, after all, so of course we’re familiar with the world of gossip. Besides, it ain’t my fault where and when youse and your friends have fights, nor if others heard a few bits of it." He put his tea down and smiled again. "So instead of gettin’ mad over spilled milk, why don't we rise beyond petty squabbles and work together?"

"Are you honestly suggesting to me that I should betray my friends for blackmail?" She narrowed her eyes. “Really now, what kind of lady do you think I am? And don’t think for a moment I haven’t forgotten how you managed to get backstage. That place was supposed to be under surveillance at all times. How did you do that?"

Fort shook his head. "Poor, naive mare, and ya claim to know the world of high society. Ya still don't know the first lesson of it?" He burst into laughter. "As long as ya have the bits, dere ain’t no place where youse can't enter."

“This is not a laughing matter!”

“Oh, but I think it is, lady,” Fort snickered. “Besides, who cares how I ended up in dat buildin’? What’s important is crushing dat pain in our flank, right? After all, dat is the one aspect we share --- our common hatred and loathin’ for the prince, and how we’ll stop at nothin’ to destroy him.”

So, that’s what he is, she thought bitterly. Another thug disguised under a suit made of gold.

She suddenly felt sick. His words and attitude reminded her so much of herself when she had heard the truth from the prince’s mouth. She never once took the opportunity to give him a chance. She pretended to ignore Applejack when she insisted that he had changed. And now, when faced with this stallion, she could only see a mirror of herself. She was becoming the monster that she had despised so much.

Was I really that heartless? Oh Rarity, you and your melodrama. Once again, you decided to play this like a novel and took everything too far.

She looked down in shame, now realizing what was happening before shaking her head. No, apologies will come later. I need to ditch this brute as soon as possible.

"I think I’ve heard enough," Rarity said with indignation, paying for her cup and standing up. "Thank you, Mr. Knox, but I will have to decline. I understand the intentions behind your words and although I still don’t like the prince much, I’ve come to realize now that I was being unreasonable and petty. Plus, I can't condone what is clearly an act of treason." She sat up and glared at him. “However, in gratitude for helping me see how abhorrent I was acting, I have decided to pretend I did not hear any treasonous words coming from your grotesque mouth. On the other hoof, if you do choose to leak any juicy details about me and my friends, at least be sure the reporters get my good side, and you may wish to tread carefully, because I might be pretending to be pretending.” She chose that moment to give him an almost sadistic smirk. “I can play the blackmail game too, you know. Good day, Mr. Knox.”

As she began to walk away, the larger stallion reached out and grabbed her shoulder. "I would suggest dat ya reconsider, lady," Fort murmured, increasing the force of his grip. "Ask yourself dis: is he really worth the effort? How much is he payin’ ya for your loyalty? Whatever the price is, rest assured, I can easily double it."

"I said no, and even if he was paying me, which he isn’t, I wouldn’t take any bits from you even if you quadrupled the price," Rarity firmly assured him, before forcefully removing his hoof from her. "And come to think about it, if Discord of all creatures was offered a second chance, it’s only fair we give Prince Blueblood one too. Plus, my friends trust him, and as such, it would be prudent for me to be generous and give him the opportunity to prove my dislike for him wrong." She lifted her snout into the air with a huff and trotted away. "Good day, Mr. Knox."

She was about to leave the establishment when two bulky unicorns in suits stopped her. She narrowed her eyes at them just as Fort Knox chuckled from behind her. "Now ain’t dat just a darn shame, lady..." he said with a sigh as he resumed drinking his tea. "I really thought dat we could resolve dis little dispute like civilized ponies."

The goons lifted Rarity in the air with a spell and then placed a suppression ring on her horn before she could cast anything or even yelp in surprise. They then tossed her back inside the cafe at the hooves of Fort Knox. He smirked at her and swirled the tea in his cup. "I had such high hopes dat we could come to a nice and...profitable agreement." He put the cup down. "I suppose dat’s what I get for bein’ such a hopeless romantic."

"Let me go, you ruffians, or so help me--!" Rarity yelled before she was immediately gagged and shoved to her knees by Knox’s thugs. Despite this, she continued to scream in contempt through her gag.

Fort Knox stood up, never once losing his smug expression. Rarity paused in her muffled rant and looked around, finally noticing that all the customers in the cafe had vanished. The unicorn barista of the place ended the spell she was casting before glance at Rarity with a smirk. The curtains all closed at once, and one of the thugs pulled out a lighter and flicked it open, illuminating the room once more.

Fort Knox knelt down and slowly ran a hoof down Rarity’s cheek, stopping under her chin. "You see, Miss Rarity, in my line of work dere’s dis old sayin’ I'm particularly fond of and follow as my personal mantra: 'if ya want it, I got it. And if I don't have it, I get it’," he hissed, gripping her chin and squeezing. "And I always, always get whatever I want, even if I have to rip apart every last piece of the entire world to get it." He brought the hot cup near her face. "Right now, I want to know exactly what youse and Prince Goldilocks were discussin’." He splashed the coffee on her face. Thankfully, it wasn't so hot as to burn her, but the sensation was enough for her to scream in pain through the gag. He used a napkin to clean some of the coffee off her face as well as her now dripping mascara. "I hope dat ya now understand why I can’t just let ya go. Ain’t good for business, no ma’am.”

Rarity sent him a hate-filled glare that would have made volcanoes explode into fiery conflagrations if she was close enough.

He stood up and nodded to his goons. "Take her to the basement and put the closed sign up. It looks like I’ll be entertainin’ a special guest today," he said, looking at Rarity and licking his lips. She flinched, and he laughed. "Oh, now don't be so scared, lady. This ain’t my first time diggin’ for valuable info from somepony’s head, least of all one as pretty as yours." He leaned forward and whispered in her ear, "You’re in safe hoofs, and I give ya my word: youse will be reunited with your friends and family soon enough without any damage to your body or brain. Or rather, nopony will notice dat dere was any damage once we’ve fixed ya up again and erased all those nasty little memories. But hey, do ya really wanna remember dose anyway? I know I wouldn’t…”

With a jolt, Rarity rammed her face into him, pushing Knox back. She then swung her leg under one of his thugs and stood up, making a break for the door. Unfortunately, the second thug jumped over his fallen comrade and yanked her back with magic just inches away from the doorway. She screamed in desperation and despair through the gag, her escape foiled and her fate sealed as she watched the door get farther and farther away. She pulled forward and tried to clamp down onto the floor or grab onto something, but it was all in vain. Her screaming only ended once a sleeping spell was cast on her, and she slumped to the floor.

"Ha! We’ve a feisty one today, boys!” Fort Knox laughed, stepping over her prone body. “We better be on high alert around dis one, she might try to bounce again. Don’t want dat now, do we?"

The two thugs nodded and tied Rarity up before dragging her down into the basement. The unicorn barista grinned and discreetly flipped the sign on the door to “closed”. Nopony would ever know what happened.





Back at City Hall

Coco Pommel, a cream-colored mare with a cyan mane and tail, approached Applejack, Blueblood, and his bodyguards, wearing a red bonnet on her head and a fanciful yet practical scarf around her neck. On her back were a set of saddlebags, and her face was one of nervousness. She stopped near the door to City Hall and waited patiently while Princess Celestia spoke with the reporters, Applejack and Blueblood standing by her side. Blueblood was holding an ice pack to his cheek, and Applejack kept glancing at him warily. Amber and Stellar stood off to the side, silent and watchful.

"Are ya sure ya feel alright?” Applejack asked quietly. “Ah’ve seen some nasty hits, but that one’s one of the nastiest. Never knew she had it in her."

"I'm fine, Applejack," he replied, taking the ice pack off for a moment. "It doesn't hurt that much now, and the swelling is almost gone."

"Ah just can't believe Rarity would actually slap ya..." She shook her head in disappointment. "That mare can be as stubborn as heck sometimes, but to actually hit somepony…"

"Well, it’s not like I didn’t entirely deserve it,” Blueblood shrugged. “I was the one that brought up a touchy subject for her, so she was within her rights to get mad. I won’t hold a grudge over it."

“She still shouldn’t have slapped ya ‘round.”

"If you want to talk to her, I won’t stop you, but please don’t be too hard on her,” he replied.

Applejack gave a slow nod of acceptance. "Yeah, perhaps it’s for the best. The last thing Ah want is to make matters worse. But seriously, if there was only a way for her to actually give ya a chance, Ah--"

Finally Coco couldn’t stand waiting any longer. She coughed politely and waved at them. "Um, excuse me?" she asked quietly, so as to not interrupt the reporters.

Applejack looked at her and smiled. "Well, howdy there, Coco! Long time, no see," she said.

"Hello, Applejack," Coco greeted. "It's nice to see you, too."

Applejack motioned between Blueblood and Coco with a hoof. "Blueblood, this here’s the mare Ah was tellin’ ya about: Coco Pommel, a friend of ours. Coco, this here’s Prince Blueblood."

"It’s very nice to meet you, Miss Pommel," Blueblood said, giving her a small bow in greeting.

Unfortunately, this had the unintended effect of making the poor mare blush uncontrollably and look away. "I just, um…n-n-nice to meet you too, Y-Your Highness," she stuttered, trying to regain control of herself, with limited success.

Applejack, thankfully, decided to rescue her. "What brings ya here, Coco?" she asked, trying to change the subject. "Ah thought ya’d be on your way with Rares to see the pyrotechnic team by now?"

"Oh yes," Coco blurted, remembering why was there. "I was actually about to ask you about that. Have you seen Rarity lately? I was supposed to meet her at the entrance of City Hall ten minutes ago, but she never came."

Blueblood and Applejack sent wary glances at each other before turning back to her. "Ya mean she ain’t outside?" Applejack asked.

Coco shook her head. "I asked some guards, but they thought I was an intruder at first. I had to show them my backstage pass just to let me enter," she said, pulling out a pass from her saddlebags and holding it up to them. "And when I entered, the only other guard that had seen her told me that he thought she was still inside, but she was nowhere to be found."

"Okay, that definitely doesn't add up..." Applejack remarked.

Blueblood pursed his lips. "I agree," he said, looking at his guards. "Amber, can you quickly rally the guards that were guarding the exit?”

"I can,” the mare answered with a nod before glancing at the stage. "But shouldn't you be informing the princess about this?"

"While she’s in the middle of a press conference and trying to assure an audience that’s still afraid of changelings that they aren’t here to eat them?” Blueblood deadpanned. “That’s just a winning formula for panic, no matter how subtly we give her the tip. When we tell her, it’ll be after she’s done talking and comes back."

"But Your Highness…" she insisted, nervously switching gazes between him and Celestia.

"Amber, I understand you’re worried, but please just listen to me. Rarity might be in danger, and we need to do something. The more time we waste, the further away she could be," he argued back. "I promise I’ll stay away from any danger if there is any, and if we get flak for not telling the princess then I’ll take responsibility."

Stellar put her hoof on Amber’s shoulder and nodded, getting close to the prince. Amber sighed in defeat and nodded. "As you command, my prince. But please, stay here with Stellar until my return."

"I will," the prince replied, watching as Amber sped away from the group.

"Even after what she did to ya, you’re still gonna help us?" Applejack asked in surprise.

"I don't care if she doesn't like me or not, I’m not going to turn a blind eye if something happened to her. She and I may not be friends at the moment, but she is yours," Blueblood replied.

"Is Rarity in trouble?" Coco asked in panic.

"We don't know yet, Miss Coco,” Blueblood said, putting a hoof on her shoulder. “But rest assured we will find her."

"I-I just…um…hrgrumrphm!"

In hindsight, Blueblood should have recognized the signs before he touched her, but by that point it was too late. Coco’s face had turned bright red and she was babbling gibberish as she stared at his hoof and her shoulder. Blueblood pulled his hoof back in haste, but Coco’s mind had already blown a gasket.

Applejack stepped in to pull the stammering, blushing mare aside. "Ah’ll go get her some water, Blueblood. The poor mare must be scared out of her mane right now," she explained.

"Ah, of course,” Blueblood replied. “Go ahead, Applejack, but don't take too long. We need to solve this as quickly as possible."

"Will do, Your Highness," Applejack said as she guided Coco away. Once they were far enough away Applejack lightly nudged Coco in the shoulder. "Sweet hog-tiein’ buffalo bagels, Coco, I know he looks like a stud and all, but control yourself!" she whispered as she poured the mare a cup of water.

"I c-can't help it!” Coco whisper-shouted, grabbing the cup. “I have n-never been near a prince before..."

Sometime later, Amber returned and placed all the guards stationed near the exit in a straight line in front of Blueblood and Applejack. "These are all the guards that were stationed near the exit, Your Highness," she said.

The prince hummed in thought as he approached them. Hmmm, let's see here...two pegasi, three earth ponies, and two unicorns. "Perfect; thank you, Amber."

Amber nodded and stepped aside, letting Applejack and Blueblood step forward.

"Okay, listen up, everypony!" Applejack said aloud, getting the guards’ attention. "One of our friends went outside not that long ago and was supposed to meet with Coco Pommel here." She gestured to the mare in question. "So, if’n there were so many ponies watching the exits, can somepony please explain to me how none of ya saw her leave?"

The guards all glanced nervously at each other, one of them coughing and another tugging at the armor at his neck. The prince rolled his eyes and tapped Applejack on the shoulder. "Let me try, AJ."

“Knock yourself out,” Applejack muttered.

Blueblood grinned and turned towards the guards. "Guards...atten-tion!" he suddenly yelled.

The result was instantaneous. Training and instinct took over and each guard clicked their boots together, straightened their posture, and stared straight ahead with straight, alert faces.

The prince looked at each guard as he walked down the line. "Sloppy, just like I thought. Needs to be one smooth movement! You don’t come to attention at your own time, you all do it in sync!” he fake-seethed. “Now then, just like my friend said, some time ago today, the Element of Generosity entered backstage and then exited the building, without making any attempt to avoid any of you. So, if you were doing your jobs as Royal Guards, you should have seen something. I want somepony to tell me exactly how it’s possible that all of you missed her."

"My partner and I were patrolling the sky, sir!” one of the pegasi guards responded. “Our focus was on the clouds and the pegasi in the area!"

“Why weren’t you watching the ground?” Blueblood asked.

“Not our orders, sir!”

Blueblood took a quick glance at Applejack, who confirmed his story. He nodded. "Understood, as you were." He then moved to the earth ponies. "What about you three?"

"We were told to stand by for crowd control, sir!" one of them answered. "Paparazzi and fanatics were trying to sneak their way inside the building, sir. For how many they were, we were almost about to request reinforcements, especially after your speech."

“Leaving no time for you to properly watch any other entrance, correct?” Blueblood checked.

“That’s correct, Your Highness!”

Once again, Applejack nodded in agreement with his story.

Blueblood turned to the unicorns. "Which leaves us with you two," he said calmly. "If I understand correctly, you were in charge of guarding the back door, correct?"

"That is correct, Your Highness," the first unicorn answered. "But we never saw anypony else enter or exit all day."

The prince raised an eyebrow and glanced at Applejack, who nodded once again.

That’s strange...if they’re all telling the truth, then how--wait a second, what’s that?

Blueblood looked closer and saw a small bulge sticking out from the second unicorn’s armor. Not only that, but the second guard seemed to be trying as carefully as he could to hide it. Very suspicious. 

Blueblood looked down at the second unicorn. "Can you confirm what your partner said, soldier?"

"Yes s-sir, just like he said, we never saw an angry unicorn leave."

Gotcha.

Blueblood smirked. "Now that’s interesting...I never said anything about her being angry."

By now every guard was staring at the unicorns. The second guard began to sweat nervously. "Uh…um, well, you see...I just assumed that your swollen cheek was because of her, and…" he stammered, trying to find an avenue of escape.

But Blueblood wasn’t going to let him do that. "Well, I’ve gotta say, you’ve got a really good eye, soldier," he complimented him with a nod. "And you’re right, that was because of her. She and I had a heated argument and things escalated before we knew it. I thought that she only needed some time outside to vent and think."

"Mares, am I right, sir?" the guard joked, and immediately regretted it upon seeing the angry stares from the mares present.

Blueblood nodded slowly and closed his eyes with a sigh. "You know, soldier, you’ve impressed me. You also disgust me, but you still impress me nonetheless.”

“...Your Highness?” the guard squeaked out.

“I mean, you’re standing here, talking right to my face, while I have the Element of Honesty literally by my side, as well as two of the Royal Guard’s finest soldiers at my beck and call, and you still have the nerve to try and lie your way out?"

“Please, sir, I can explain--!”

“Save it,” Blueblood cut him off with a hoof. “Amber, search him.”

“With pleasure,” Amber replied with a smirk, marching up to the guard and staring down at him. “Take off that armor of yours; let’s see what you’re hiding.”

The guard shivered in fear but complied, taking off his helmet and chestplate. Almost immediately a bag of bits fell out in front of him, spilling some bits onto the floor.

One of them rolled to a stop in front of Blueblood, and he picked it up and inspected it. “Tsk-tsk-tsk...just as I thought. Element of Loyalty, you certainly aren’t. Guards, restrain him.”

The ousted unicorn bolted, trying to make a run for it, but Stellar intercepted him effortlessly. She rammed into his side and brought him down to the ground, grabbing one of his upper hoofs into a shoulder lock while pressing her other hoof against his neck. The other guards moved to capture the other unicorn, but Blueblood lifted his hoof. "At ease, soldiers, this traitor worked alone."

Amber touched the restrained unicorn’s horn with her own, and a flash of light occured for a brief moment before she nodded and addressed the prince: "Funhouse spell, sir. He enchanted his companion so he couldn't hear or see anything."

The prince shook his head, looking down at the traitor. "Wow, a discreet funhouse spell? That’s a tricky one...must’ve been really hard to pull off without anypony noticing." He leaned forward with a frown. "Now tell me, why did you lie to us?

The unicorn snarled and spat into Blueblood’s face. “Go to Tartarus, you brat!” he roared, earning him a sharp buck in the head from Amber and an even tighter press on his neck from Stellar. He yelped in pain, but he wasn’t deterred. “We’ve got you now, you bastard. Once Rarity generously tells us all about your little secret, you’ll be ours! You hear me, OURS!!” He laughed.

Blueblood sighed and wiped the spittle from his face while Applejack stormed forward, flaring her nostrils. “Rarity would never do that!” she bellowed.

"Plus, she already had plans with me," Coco added. "She wouldn't just ditch me..."

Applejack face-hooved.

"Not even to expose this slimeball?" the traitor growled, looking at Blueblood. "I’d do it in a heartbeat if it meant keeping away this scum from the throne."

"Not Rarity," Coco insisted. "She would have at least excused herself to go find me and apologize for having to cancel our appointment."

"Well, there’s a first time for everything, huh?" he joked, smirking viciously at her. "Even if she refuses to talk, which I see as very unlikely, it doesn't matter. I’ve friends that can be particularly persuasive."

"Screw this!" Applejack yelled, snarling at the guard. "Tell us where y’all took Rarity before I turn ya into the next Mare in the Moon."

The soldier howled with maniacal laughter. "You actually think any of you scare me? You’re all pathetic.” He turned to face Blueblood. “And you...you’re a joke, Blueblood --- a spoiled brat that only knows how to cry and complain when his tea is too hot. You’re not a prince, you’re a sleazebag, a creep, and a tool!!" He looked at the other guards. "You all should be defending me! What power does he have over you? How many times has he abused his power over you? Aren't you tired of how he keeps using us like his personal toys?!"

He would’ve continued his rant, but Stellar pressed down her hoof on his throat just a little more, making him choke. It wasn’t enough to cut off his air completely, but she was seriously considering it.

Blueblood rolled his eyes. "Somepony really didn't listen to anything I said on the podium..."

"Do you think that changes anything? You think we would just forgive you just like that because you finally put the word 'sorry' in your vocabulary? The disgusting bug should’ve let you burn."

"Perhaps," the prince nodded. "But she didn't, and because of that, I decided to act like the prince I should’ve been in the first place."

The unicorn scoffed at him.

Blueblood put on a serious expression. "Starting, I think, by looking after my subjects." He pressed his hoof under the traitor’s face and glared. "Now, consider this: the easy and only merciful way out of this mess you brought yourself into is to tell me where Rarity is. After that, well, I might consider telling my aunt to only kick you out of the Royal Guard. Maybe."

The soldier chuckled. "Is that seriously your best attempt at being intimidating? Please don't make me laugh even harder, your trollop up there won’t let me."

The prince sighed and stood up. "I really didn't want to resort to this. I honestly wanted this to be solved without any conflict, but you’re right, this isn’t in my authority.” He looked up at the two elite guards. “Amber, Stellar...he’s now in your jurisdiction. A national hero is in danger, so I…”

Amber nodded in understanding and put a hoof on his shoulder. “You don’t have to say it, sir, we understand.” He remained silent but nodded, and he, Applejack, and Coco stepped away so the soldiers could take over.

“Guards, on me! Box formation,” Amber commanded. Right on cue, all the remaining guards surrounded the traitor as Amber nodded to her partner.

Stellar smirked and glared down at the unicorn, who was starting to look a little more nervous. “Last chance traitor. Tell us what we need to know, or you’ll wish you hadn’t gone to work today.” 

“Y-you’re bluffing...” he stammered.

Amber grinned. “Are we?”

“You won’t break me!”

Stellar leaned in and whispered. “Won’t we?”

“I won’t talk!”

“You won’t?” Amber raised an eyebrow.

“N-never!”

Amber shrugged. “Welp, there’s always one who makes it hard. You asked for it. Do it, Stellar.” 

Her partner got closer to his ear and whispered, “Tell the truth.”

“What?” He tried to look back at her as she pulled her head back.

“Who took the Element of Generosity?” Amber asked.

"It was Fort Knox,” the traitor immediately answered, confusing even himself. “It was him; he took her to his own coffee shop near here, 'The Golden Leaf', two blocks down from here. Oh Faust, what did you do to me?!" he yelled in shock.

Amber patted his head and winked. “Now, now, it’s not polite to ask a couple of ladies to reveal their secrets.” She stepped away as Stellar forced him to stand up again. The other guards quickly surrounded him and cut off his magic with a suppression ring. “Take him to an interrogation room and inform the princess as soon as she finishes talking with the press,” Amber ordered. “Our ‘friend’ here is gonna be an open book for the next two hours.” 

“What? Why? H-how did you do it? How’d you make me say the truth? What spell did you use?!” The traitor kept thrashing around as he was cuffed.

One of the remaining guards stepped forward towards Blueblood. "Should we rally the troops, sir?"

Blueblood shook his head. "No, that would draw too much attention, and the last thing we want is to create more panic. Plus, if this Fort Knox sees us coming he could try to escape with Rarity. For now, reinforce security around City Hall, but be discreet about it and inform my aunt of what’s happening as soon as she finishes her speech."

"Yes, sir!" The guard saluted, just as the other unicorn guard placed the traitor in a bubble shield before levitating him away with the other soldiers.

The prince sighed and looked at the mares with a serious expression. "Well ladies, I don't know you, but right now I am just dying to go get some coffee. How about you?”

"Absolutely not!" Amber intervened. "I’ll let you speak with the soldiers, but I won’t permit you to go towards potential danger."

"It’ll be easier if it is just a small group,” Blueblood countered. “Besides, we don't know if she’s held against her will yet."

"She never misses appointments unless it's an emergency, Blueblood," Applejack interjected. "Less when it comes to friends. Ah can guarantee ya that even if she hated ya, she wouldn't ditch Coco. She’s bein’ held against her will, trust me." She looked at Stellar and Amber. "And Ah assume that with all your secret missions the two of ya also came to the same conclusion --- hostage situation, am Ah right?"

Stellar nodded with a grim frown.

"That, or maybe she just missed the time, but somepony as organised as her wouldn't let that happen," Amber argued before glaring at the prince. "Which is precisely why we can't have you risk your life by following a ‘damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead’ mindset, Your Highness. So, if we’re going to perform a rescue mission, it’s going to be on our terms" She glanced at Applejack and Coco. "And I suppose you two aren’t going to stay here either, correct?"

Applejack shook her head. "No way Ah'm lettin’ those trouble-makin’ varmints take my friend away. I’ll buck ‘em up into next week, just say the word."

"I…um…I want to help in any way I can too," Coco added, although sounding a bit less sure of herself.

"Good," Amber said with a smile. "Because Stellar and I know exactly how you three can help.”

The prince, the farmer, and the dressmaker glanced at each other and shared a gulp.
> The Corrupting Greed (Edited By RB And GT4)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the prince approached the establishment, he started to feel like he was being watched, and saw that many of the ponies around the building were glaring at him in either curiosity or anger. Or both.

Swallowing a lump in his throat, he shook his head and continued his steady march until he reached the front door. Taking a deep breath, he began knocking until an irritated unicorn mare with brown fur, a white mane, and a tail in the shape of foam opened it. "The sign says…" she began, and then her voice trailed off when she noticed who was knocking.

She smirked. "Well, well, well, if it isn't the prince of Equestria, gracing us with his presence after having such a miraculous change of heart. What an honor." She rolled her eyes and crossed her forelegs. "What do you want? In case you didn't notice, we’re closed."

The prince glanced at the sign, then back at her with a raised eyebrow. "In the middle of the day?"

"Yeah, you got a problem with that?" she asked defensively. Blueblood looked over her head, noticing the spilled coffee and broken table until she blocked his view. "We’re getting some things repaired. Now, if you don't mind, aren't you late to kissing some foals in front of a camera or something?"

She was about to close the door when the prince shoved a hoof in the door, stopping it. "I need to see Fort Knox," he said.

She glared at his hoof and then at his face. "Why?"

The prince smirked as he looked at her. "Come on, isn't it obvious? Changelings integrating into noble society? Do I need to spell out the possibilities on the info and money behind it? Hello, anypony in there?" he replied, tapping her head twice.

The mare laughed. "Ha! I knew you were still a scheming snake with a silver tongue, I just knew it! Knox owes me forty bits now,” she said, pointing at him. "No way a measly fire could take that away from you!"

God, I'm gonna need a long, ice-cold shower once this is over...

The prince mentally cringed at his attitude before addressing the barista again. "Excuse me? Your boss? Chop-chop," he said, faking irritation.

"Huh? Oh yeah, he is in the basement, you know the way," she answered, pointing to the back door. "Just knock before you enter, he’s...‘adjusting’ some inventory." She let out a chuckle before returning to the back of the counter and resuming her reading of a magazine.

That is, until a stun spell was cast on her, and the mare’s face smacked the countertop as she fell to the floor. The invisibility spell dropped and Applejack and Stellar quickly appeared next to the prince, the former opening the door briefly to signal Coco and the plain-clothes-disguised platoon waiting outside.

"Was that really necessary?" Blueblood asked his guard with a raised eyebrow while looking at the barista’s unconscious form.

"We couldn't risk her callin’ for reinforcements, right?" Applejack replied, tying the mare up with her lasso. "Gettin’ repairs done, my tail. Ah’ve been in enough cider bars with Big Mac and mah cousin Braeburn to know what a brawl looks like. She knew what was goin’ on." The farmer looked around the place and smirked. "This whole scene has Rarity’s name written all over it. That mare doesn't look like it, but she can put up a heck of a fight if’n she wanted to." She then turned to the prince and tipped her hat. "Not bad actin’, by the way."

"Please don't remind me," the prince muttered, shivering at the thought until Stellar got their attention and pointed to the back door. "Stellar’s right, we’re not done yet. We need to go find Rarity."

"Right!" They both got closer to Stellar, and she cast the invisibility spell once more, making it look like the prince was alone.

Well, even though I need to pretend I’m still a jerk, this is kinda exciting. Almost like I'm a spy or a hero rescuing a hostage.

The prince stepped towards the back of the shop, but before entering he looked at the barista for a moment in pity. He quickly grabbed a pillow from one of the chairs with his magic and put it underneath her head before going into the hallway and toward the only door at the end of it. He was about to knock and then remembered what he was supposed to be here for, and shook his head. He decided instead to slowly open the door, making as little noise as possible until he saw a set of metal stairs heading down.

Walking down slowly, he soon found himself in an incredibly massive basement the size of a football field, with a lot of boxes spread around and two huge sliding doors on the walls. The doors no doubt led to underground tunnels, as the only source of light came from a giant white crystal in the center of the rooftop, which had a stream of light in the base hitting the floor.

What the hell? Is this a basement or a warehouse?

The prince looked around in confusion as he reached the base of the stairs, and with help of his friends made quick work of two stallions that were guarding the entrance. They then resumed their walk, looking around at the crates and small boxes, both wooden and metallic, piled into neat, organized rows. All had different tags on them, ranging from potions to medicine, and all the way to weapons and jewelry.

Okay, so we are in an underground storage facility, hidden under a coffee shop. Either Fort Knox deals in illegal goods transportation, or he’s the weirdest and richest hoarder I have ever seen, the prince thought, and kept exploring until he was startled by a sudden voice.

"Keep your hooves away from me, you uncivilized brutes!" Rarity called in the distance, alerting the three as they rushed to the center of the room where the stream of light seemed to be gathering.

Once there, they saw that Rarity was tied to a chair while surrounded by unicorns, all pointing their horns at her while Fort Knox poured some water in a hollow and transparent gemstone, taken from a box full of them. He then sealed the gem again and exposed it to the ray of light created by the crystal in the roof. "Now, now Miss Rarity, dere ain’t no need for violence here, right?"

"You splash me with hot coffee, kidnap me, ruin my perfect mane and makeup, and now are mistreating me with magic! I certainly have all the right in the world to be violent and angry right now," she spat back, thrashing around. "And what kind of basement is this? All poorly lit, cold, with giant boxes piled on top of each other everywhere and no place to sit. Is this unflattering chair really the only thing you have for that? This place is just hideous! You could at least have painted the walls a bit, aren't you supposed to be rich? Are you so cheap that you refused to pay for even one simple color? I was so wrong about you, Fort Knox, I thought that with that elegant suit and those kind and polite words, you were better than this, but you’re nothing more than a well-dressed swine, you boorish snob, you--!"

"Will somepony please just gag her again," he sighed, rubbing his forehead.

"Don't you dare!" Rarity glared daggers at the unicorn with a piece of cloth in front of her, before another one behind her forced a ball in her mouth to silence her.

"Thank ya, her whinin’ was really startin’ to get on my nerves," Fort Knox said with another sigh of relief before approaching her. Rarity glared at him and continued to try to yell and thrash, until he was face to face with her. "Oh right, complainin’, not whinin’, huh?"

She rolled her eyes but nodded nonetheless as the stallion moved away from her and showed her the gemstone. "Ain't it beautiful, miss? Imported straight from the Badlands desert, pure alexandrite. Although, I prefer the name the locals gave it when I discovered it --- 'The Oblivion Kiss’."

He passed the alexandrite with water to one of his goons and picked up another empty one. "A gemstone dat in itself is harmless, but when exposed to any kind of light and pressed against anypony’s head…" He motioned as he talked, pressing it against Rarity. Immediately the image of Rarity outside the city hall appeared in the air for all to see, showing her being approached by Fort Knox and how he kissed her hoof, then calming her down before guiding her to the cafe.

"…It shows their immediate memory."

He removed the alexandrite, and Rarity’s head rolled forward as she felt dizzy. "Yeah, I know. The side effects for usin’ it include dizziness and delirium for a short period of time. Dat’s probably why dese gemstones are illegal in Equestria," he said, tapping the box of the gemstones with a smirk. "Good thing dat nopony knows dat dere’s a box full of ‘em in here, right boys?" He laughed with his goons as he took the alexandrite full with water.

Rarity’s glare intensified, and so did her headache.

"Aw, don't be mad at me. I’m a stallion of my word, ya ain’t gonna feel a thing with dis one." He shook the alexandrite with water a little, making it shine a bit brighter. "After some experimentation I found out dat usin’ water and some white light..." He pointed at the crystal on the rooftop. "I can command the memory I wanna find by speakin’ its details and den pressin’ the crystal against the pony’s head. Everythin’s shown and exposed in front of me, and as the water evaporates from the heat, so does the memory in the user's head..." He smirked at Rarity and approached her, holding the gemstone up. "So Miss Rarity, without any further delay, Blueblood’s secret, if ya please." He held out the gemstone towards her head...

A bolt of magic struck the gemstone, blasting it out of his hoof. Immediately all the goons turned and saw Blueblood approaching the group.

"Geez, Fort Knox, I know nopony likes it, but I'm pretty sure that there are better ways to deal with rejection than this," Blueblood snarked. "By the way, she’s right, this place is just dismal. Would it kill you to put some color here and there instead of going for the cliched supervillain cave?"

Rarity’s eyes widened when she saw him approach, genuinely touched. He…came here? To rescue me?

All the unicorns aimed their horns at him but stopped when he showed them a recorder floating in his magic. "Ah ah, easy there fellas, none of you would want the copy of your boss’s confession to end in my aunt's hooves, would you?"

That made them stop and back away as he approached Fort Knox. He stopped and looked up...and up, finally noticing that the pony was easily two heads taller than him.

Oh Lordy, he’s bigger than Big Mac...

He cleared his throat and looked at Fort Knox with a neutral expression before glancing at Rarity and then looking back at him. "Well Fort Knox, care to explain yourself?"

After recovering from the surprise, the larger stallion laughed and looked down at the prince, noticing that he was all alone. "Well, if it ain’t the new and improved prince of Equestria. How nice of ya to grace us with your presence." He gave a smug smile, revealing his golden tooth. "Dis day really has been one strange occurrence after another. Hearin’ dat ya apparently got amnesia, den dat ya almost died, and den a miracle of findin’ out dat ya actually have a heart. And now it turns out dat ya also had a brain all along? You’re full of surprises lately. Now tell me, how did ya find dis place?"

"Please Fort, don't insult me, did you really think that I couldn't just double the price you offered to your guards? The moment I showed them the second bag of bits, they were drooling like a starving dog,” Blueblood remarked. "Now, let's talk business. Fort Knox, I’ve come to bargain."

"Would ya look at dat? So much for your change of heart. How long did it last, an hour?"

"I'm still a changed stallion," Blueblood said with a serious expression. "The fact that my view of the world changed doesn't mean I’ve forgotten how this game is played." He pointed at Rarity. "Now, before we begin, let her go. That’s no way to treat a lady, and she has nothing to do with us."

Everypony laughed at the comment as Fort Knox looked at his goons. "Whoa-ho, look out boys, we’ve got a noble prince here."

Rarity’s eyes started to dampen, never once looking away from Blueblood. He really did come back for me… Her eyes then widened and she shook her head. What in Equestria am I thinking?! That gemstone! It’s making me delusional, but I still need to apologize to him for my behavior, and he just marched here gallantly and…Gah! Rarity, control yourself!

Once the gang’s laughter died down, Fort Knox looked back at the prince. "I was wonderin’ what all dis was, about ya bein’ a changed pony, but now dis? Dis is just pathetic. It’s too late for ya to start playin’ hero, Blueblood," he said as his goons began to circle around the prince. Fort Knox picked the water-filled alexandrite off the ground and started towards Rarity. "One accident and some extreme tannin’ ain’t gonna change what ya are, boy. Now, I’m gettin’ tired of seein’ ya pull surprises outta your butt, so if ya will excuse me, I’ll go see your big secret now."

"I'm warning you, Fort Knox, let her go,” Blueblood growled. “I still have your confession."

"And I have the means to avoid bein’ exposed, 'Your Highness'," Fort Knox retorted with a smug smile. "Dis place has a magic jammer on it, nothin’ and nopony can be teleported in or out, so the moment ya try, your device will simply hit an invisible wall." He waved a hoof and the unicorns readied their spells. "But hey, don't let me try to stop ya. By all means, give it a go; make my day."

"Please Fort, stop this," the prince pleaded, trying to appeal to whatever remained of the stallion’s heart. "Just look at yourself! Is this how you want to live? In the dark like a rat, hurting innocents? Life is more than just bits and luxuries, I know that now. If I can change, so can you; it’s not too late. Just call off your guards, apologize to Miss Rarity, and get rid of all this illegal junk. I can even help you with the last part. With the apology, on the other hoof, you are on your own. You did kinda kidnap her and threaten to manipulate her mind, so you two will have to work a deal. Maybe offer her to slap you in the face or kick you in the groin. I would advise the slap but the mare has one killer left hoof so it could be worse."

Everypony stared at him unblinkingly, and Blueblood cleared his throat before continuing, "What do you say, Fort Knox? If I could change for the better, you can do the same. So why not change together and work hard for a better Equestria?" He offered a hoof to the larger stallion.

Fort Knox stared at Blueblood in the eyes with a raised eyebrow before bursting into laughter, so much so that he almost fell to the floor and needed to hold onto the chair while his goons did the same, some even clearing their eyes from the tears. The prince watched them all with an annoyed expression, rolling his eyes skyward.

"Oh my Celestia, dat was…dat was…!" Fort Knox had another fit of laughter before addressing the prince again. "Do...do ya even hear yourself, boy? Do ya really believe all that nonsense?"

The prince sighed. "To be...brutally honest, no, I didn't. But the polite thing to do was to give you the chance, and Amber needed time to charge her spell anyway, soooo yay me."

Immediately all their eyes widened in horror. "What?" Fort Knox gasped, but before anypony could react, dozens of clones of Amber burst out through the crates, jumping toward them or running, appearing everywhere until they surrounded the group. The goons tried to retaliate, but Stellar appeared and charged her horn, sending a wave of blue magic that blinded them and forced the afflicted to stare into space. In a similar surprise motion, Applejack made a quick job in lassoing the rest of the goons and knocking them down with a good placed buck to the face.

Fort Knox was left speechless as the prince approached him with a literal army of guards at his back, all of whom were smirking at him as they kept their horns at the ready. Others were putting the rest of the thugs in the ground, half burned, unconscious, and tied up.

"Ahem, let’s try this again. Fort Knox, I’ve come to bargain,” Blueblood said again, chuckling at his little in-joke. “So here are my demands: release our friend this instant and surrender peacefully, and I’ll give you my word that my aunt won’t hear a thing about this. Instead, I’ll choose somepony else for your trial. Resist arrest and…well, let's face it --- treason, illegal possession, illegal transportation, blackmailing, bribery of a guard, and not to mention you hurt and kidnapped a friend of the crown and a national hero. So yeah, she’s gonna eat you alive and spit you out before the trial even begins," he warned him. "So I suggest you choose the less painful option while you still have the chance."

Fort Knox looked everywhere for a way out, even taking a glance at Rarity who was now looking at him with a smug smile before sighing in defeat. "Okay Blueblood, ya win," he relented, turning to Rarity to untie her.

The prince let go of a breath he was holding in satisfaction. "Glad to hear you came to your senses."

"I'm not beyond reason," Fort Knox replied with a smile. "I’ll take your offer..." His smile morphed into a smirk, alerting the guards. "After I find out your secret!" he added with a yell, breaking the chair. Amber tried to fire, but Fort Knox used Rarity as a living shield which made Amber stop as he fell to the ground.. Taking advantage of the confusion, Fort Knox kicked the box of gemstones toward the light. Moments later, due to the overexposure, the gems started to violently shake before rupturing behind him. The resulting explosion released a blinding wave of white light.

Stellar conjured a shield for her friends and used her body to cover the prince, but it was too late as everypony in the room minus Fort Knox and Blueblood got blinded. Once the light faded, the prince saw how Amber was forced to end her spell, leaving her dizzy in the middle of the room as Fort Knox made a run for it holding Rarity and the gemstone with water. "You’re comin’ with me!" he growled as he approached one of the doors in the room.

"Oh, no you don't!" Blueblood glared and gave chase.

Fort Knox noticed him following, and kicked a nearby pile of crates, making them tumble towards the prince. His reflexes kicking in, the prince slid and managed to avoid them, yet the domino effect caused even more crates to fall over, making destructive chaos spread everywhere like wildfire. The prince managed to catch up with the larger stallion as they entered another room, and picking up two fallen swords from the debris with his magic, he managed to throw them at two pulleys.

Hitting his marks, the weapons cut the ropes, and made two large suspended crates fall and block the only other door out of the room, and also destroy the stairs, effectively cutting off Fort Knox from his only escape routes. Unfortunately, with the destruction behind them, it also trapped the three inside with almost no light.

"Seriously, Fort? Another warehouse connected to the first one? How can you even afford all this?" Blueblood yelled in irritation as he tried to find him in the darkness, using his horn to give him some light.

"It helps when you’re the owner of the entire block!" Fort Knox retorted, appearing on Blueblood’s left to tackle himinto the ground before disappearing among the crates once more.

Blueblood needed a moment to recover and breathe before standing up again.

Freaking...train! What the hell is this guy made of, stone?!

Once he recovered, the prince took a few slow steps, careful of his movements. "It's over Fort. You’ve got no escape, your goons are all captured, and we have enough evidence to lock you up for a long time. Even if you manage to leave this place, a friend of ours must’ve already informed the princesses where we are. She will be here any minute now..." Managing to spot some small wooden boxes next to a large crate, the prince jumped on top of them before Fort Knox appeared and tried to hit him, only managing to destroy the smaller boxes.

The light from his gemstones shone a bit brighter for a moment. Shaking off the dizziness, the stallion looked around in anger before smiling. "Ya think ya can scare me? I’ve got contingency plans for everythin’. After beatin’ ya and findin’ out your secret, I’ll escape and lay low under a new identity for a while. Then I’ll come back stronger dan ever!" He looked at Rarity with a smirk. "And when dat happens, I’ll make sure to pay ya both a friendly little visit…”

She glared at him and started to thrash around until he choked her with his hoof. "Shut up..." he hissed.

Fort Knox then began to eye the stacks of crates around him in suspicion. "So, ya better come out now, Blueblood. Or do ya not care about the safety of your precious little marefriend here?" he threatened, increasing his hold on Rarity. "Come out, come out, wherever ya are...."

Okay, it’s official, he’s a wannabe supervillain, Blueblood thought in anger, holding his head with a hoof. I can't fight him while he has Rarity hostage. First I need to force him to let her go, but how? I can't just fight him head on!

Just before the light disappeared, the prince looked down and saw that the crate Fort Knox had broken contained a set of armor, and looking underneath his own, he discovered it full of bags of flour, which gave him an idea.

Or can I?

Keeping his magic aura as dim as possible, he levitated the objects and moved behind Fort.

"Fort, that’s just low. You’re so afraid of me that you hide behind a defenseless mare? Talk about spineless," the prince mocked. Turning around, Fort Knox saw Blueblood walking behind him looking for them using his horn again. He smirked and picked a dagger up from the ground as Rarity trashed and tried to warn the prince.

"Think of it as insurance..." Fort Knox muttered before running toward Blueblood at full speed. Rarity screamed in terror for the prince until they made contact with the dummy armor, which exploded from the impact, covering them both in flour.

"What the…" Fort Knox let out a startled yelp as he looked around the cloud of flour for the prince, sneezing uncontrollably.

"Surprise!" The prince appeared from the right and smashed Fort Knox in the face with a metal shield as hard as he could, forcing the larger stallion to let go of the gemstone and Rarity. Blueblood didn't waste time and picked her up before rushing away while Fort Knox attempted to recover.

Once he thought they were far enough from the stallion, the prince untied Rarity and looked her in the eyes. "Rarity, are you okay?"

“Y-yes, I’m fine,” she replied, coughing and holding her throat as she stood up, looking at him guiltily. “But...I don’t understand, Blueblood. After I treated you so badly, why did you risk your life for me?”

The prince sighed and shook his head. “Rarity, look, I know you don’t like me, and perhaps you never will. And while that hurts me, it doesn’t mean I won’t stand to the side while you suffer,” he said to her with a serious expression. “Whether you like me or not, you’re still an Equestrian citizen, and as such, just like my aunt’s, it’s my sworn duty to protect you. So that’s exactly what I’ll do.”

Taken aback by his words, Rarity can only tear up and hug him. "Blueblood! I…I’m so sorry!" She exclaimed, letting her emotions flow. "I thought he was going to kill you, a-a-and it was all my fault! Because of me, we ended up here in the first place."

After recovering from the surprise, he returned the hug with a smile. "It’s okay, Rarity, it’s okay." the prince said, trying to console her.

"Blueblood, I'm so sorry for the slap and for everything! I’ve been nothing but mean to you all this time and yet you came back to save me and…"

"BLUEBLOOD!" They both heard Fort Knox scream in complete rage before hearing crates and objects being destroyed and tossed around like rag dolls. "Show yourself! I'm gonna break every single bone in your body!”

Blueblood turned to Rarity. "Look, there’ll be a time for this later, but for now, we need to deal with him," he said to her and prepared to leave, but Rarity stopped him by holding his hoof.

"You’re not actually considering fighting him alone, are you? He’s double your size!" she said fearfully.

"Of course not, only an idiot or somepony with a death wish would face that giant head on,” Blueblood replied. “So, we’re both going to restrain him."

Rarity blinked in confusion. "Say what now?"

"Look, the first thing we need to do is--LOOK OUT!" Blueblood tackled her away before a flying crate smashed into where they had just been, the pair hiding behind another one. "Okay, I know it’ll be bad to confront him, but he’s on a rampage. The more we wait for my guards to come here, the more likely he’ll find us. Plus we don't know exactly what he keeps in this warehouse. If he breaks something toxic or something that can catch itself on fire, we will be inside a death trap. So, that is why we need to restrain him as soon as possible."

“Um, Blueblood?”

Blueblood blinked, then realized his position on top of Rarity, which was causing her to blush furiously. Thanks to the delirium effects on the crystal, in her eyes she saw him looking down at her with his mane blowing in a simulated breeze.

"Rarity?" Blueblood looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

"What? I-I mean--!" She shakes her head and comes back to reality. "Yes, you’re right, we can't just wait and hope something here won't turn this place into a death trap. Plus I still owe him for messing with my poor mane and makeup..." she said with a growl of anger before clearing her throat as they both stood up. "Do you have any ideas?"

"The classic hit-and-run tactics come to mind, but I'm open to suggestions," he said with a grin.

Rarity put her hoof on her chin to think, until she came up with something. "Keep him distracted, while I go search around. I think I know what we can do."

"Got it."

"Also Blueblood, could you take care of this?" she added, pointing at the ring still on her horn.

"Oh right, sorry." He used his magic to remove the ring, making the mare shiver and shake her head.

"Ah, that’s much better,” she sighed. “Now, don't do anything stupid, and keep your distance from that brute!"

"On it!" He saluted before dashing away and disappearing into the shadows.

Rarity couldn’t help herself. She held a hoof to her chest and “aww’d”. He’s so brave... she thought, and then realized what was happening and shook her head, dropping her hoof to the ground. Oh, for pony’s sake, how much longer will that infernal gemstone affect my mind?! She dashed away in the opposite direction, avoiding Fort Knox’s destructive path.

"Just ya wait until I get my hooves on ya, Blueblood!" Fort Knox continued to rant as he started to look everywhere for a sign of the prince.

"Batter up!" Blueblood bellowed, before smacking the stallion in the face with a baseball, making him growl in anger. When he turned, Fort Knox saw Blueblood wearing a baseball hat swinging a bat around in his magic, levitating 3 more balls with his magic. "Who’s up for a game?" he added before hitting the balls at him, one of which ended in Fort Knox's mouth.

"Yeah, three points!" Blueblood cheered. Fort Knox glared at him and bit down the ball, breaking it into pieces before charging at him, only to smash into a mirror.

"Sorry, wrong prince!" Blueblood called, hitting him again on the flank with another ball. He yelped and jumped around just to see the prince waving at him. "Over here!" Fort Knox tried to hit him, but the same mirror trick occurred.

"No, over here! Or perhaps here! Or here. I'm everywhere!" The prince laughed as Fort Knox ended up confused, looking at the prince appearing on mirrors floating around by his magic, making him unable to find the real one until he was surrounded.

"Confused yet, Fort?" The stallion just screamed and rushed to a metal crate before lifting it with his mouth, then spinning it around repeatedly as he smashed all the mirrors and revealed the prince’s hiding spot. He tried to run but Fort Knox threw the crate in front of him, blocking his escape as he slowly approached him.

"Now I got ya!"

Oh great, my first fight against a supervillain and it turns out to be freaking Juggernaut? This is just not fair.

He made a run for it, but Fort Knox lifted him effortlessly and rammed Blueblood against the crate before holding his neck against the container, choking him. "Any last words, pretty boy?"

Blueblood felt the pressure building before seeing Rarity appear out of the corner of his eye, levitating dresses and a full set of scissors, needles, metal, and some gemstones, all of which were now shining. This made the prince smile and look at the stallion.

"You…really should’ve taken the slap."

"...What?" Fort Knox looked at him, confused, but before he could say anything else, all the dresses fell on top of him, catching the giant off guard. He thrashed around, but Rarity was better with her skill, and managed to tangle him in all the fabric. As she did, she sewed and cut on the spot until he fell to the ground wearing what appeared to be a giant straitjacket made of at least fifty layers of cloth.

"Oh! Thanks for reminding me," Rarity remarked with a smile before turning around and delivering a powerful buck to Fort Knox’s groin, making him scream in a really high pitch. "And he’s right, you should’ve taken the deal."

"Oooooh, I felt that..." The prince flinched before approaching her and giving her a hoof bump. "And wow, Rarity, the way you managed all the fabrics was incredible!"

"When it comes to dresses, I never do anything halfway, darling," she declared.

The prince then noticed the gemstones floating around her. "And why do you need the gems?"

"Oh, these? I have a spell that can make them shine, so I used them as a flashlight," she explained before levitating two toward Fort Knox. "Plus I was still unsure on what combination to use…." she said in wonder as she compared the rocks against the straitjacket "What do you think? Obsidian or Onyx?"

The prince chuckled and shook his head. "Honestly I'm not sure. It's too dark for me to see any color."

"Oh, you’re right, that can wait for later. For now, there are more pressing matters." She said, bringing the gems together and creating a ball of energy that provided a stronger light. "Ah, much better!" she said in satisfaction.

Soon both of them heard something metallic moving not too far from them, followed by Applejack’s voice. "Hey! Rarity, Blueblood, are ya there?" She asked in worry from the other side.

"We’re here, darling!" Rarity called out, "And we’re okay. Blueblood and I took care of that brute, Fort Knox."

"Thank Celestia!” Applejack replied. “Glad that no-good, double-faced, snake didn't run away."

"Your Highness!" Amber’s voice is soon heard, sounding very agitated. "Are you there? Please don't be mad at us, everything was pandemonium once Fort hit the crates, and there were injuries everywhere. More gemstones hit the light, so there were more flashes, and we couldn't do anything until we fixed that chaos. Please say something!"

"Amber, please, breathe!” Blueblood laughed. “It’s okay, and I understand. In fact, I'm happy you took care of the other ponies. I'm alright; Fort tried to get me but, like Rarity said, we took care of him."

"Oh, thank the stars you’re safe," she said before sounding angry. "Don't you ever run away from us again, you hear?" she scolded him over the wall, sounding like a worried older sister.

"Loud and clear, and sorry for making you all worry, I promise I’ll make it up to you later."

"You better." They soon heard a horn lighting up.

"Stand back, you two. Stellar’s gonna blow the crates," Amber warned him. The prince and Rarity moved out of the way before the crates were destroyed, finally letting the lights come through once more, as well as the mares. The guards didn't waste time and went to the prince to inspect his body, searching for any injury.

"Ladies, I'm telling you, I'm fine," Blueblood murmured at them with some irritation.

"We’ll be the judge of that," Amber argued as Applejack chuckled and approached Rarity.

"It's nice to see ya alright, Rares," she said, bringing her in for a hug which Rarity gladly reciprocated. "How are ya feelin’?"

"A bit shaken from the ordeal, but I’ll be fine, thank you." She told her friend with a smile. "Although I can assure you, this is one experience that will take a while for me to forget.”

"Ah say ya should take this as a lesson." Applejack said before looking back at Blueblood. "Even when ya slapped him the prince was still very concerned for ya, Rarity. If Ah were ya, Ah’d be apologizin’ to him now."

"I couldn't agree more, Applejack," Rarity nodded.

That surprised the farmer. "So...that means you’re finally gonna stop with the cold shoulder treatment and actually give the guy a chance?"

"Oh, I don't even need to give him a chance, darling," Rarity said, turning to her friend. "I say he more than proved himself. He’s certainly earned my unquestionable friendship. I no longer have any doubt that this prince Blueblood isn't the same brute I once met."

Applejack sighed in relief once she heard that. "Finally! Ah was gettin’ worried ya were just gonna be a stubborn mule forever!"

"Hey!"

"Well, go on, tell me Ah'm wrong," the apple farmer smirked.

Rarity lifted a hoof and was about to reply, but then sighed in defeat and looked down. "Fine, you were right. I was being inconsiderate and mean." She looked up again. "But don’t worry, I’ll make it up to him as soon as I can."

"Don't tell me, tell him," Applejack said, pointing to the prince. "After riskin’ his neck for ya, ya’d better show him that ya really are sorry".

"Don't worry, AJ, I will. For now, what do you say if we leave this dreadful…" Before she could say anything else, the entire ground started to shake violently, forcing everyone to kneel from the force.

"What’s happening?" Blueblood asked in worry. "An earthquake?"

Amber’s eyes widened in realization and fear. "Worse..." she said, looking at Fort Knox. The massive stallion was currently ripping the straitjacket as his eyes shone red. "A rage burst!" She screamed before she and Stellar conjured a shield, just in time for Fort Knox to scream in rage. Giant gems and diamond columns started to emerge from the ground everywhere, the ground starting to crack around him. The destruction almost impaled the group.

"What type of rage burst is that?!" Blueblood asked in fear.

"We earth ponies have more than one type of rage, partner!” Applejack shouted. “It’s often related to our type of cutie mark. His is most likely a geology type."

"This place just became unstable, we need to…" Blueblood started, just as a diamond column emerged from under the group, breaking the shield and spreading them around. The guards tried to retaliate, but a crate hit both of them leaving the two unconscious on the ground. "Stellar! Amber!" The prince tried to rush to their side but a wall of crystals blocked his way.

"Blueblood, look out!" Applejack called, warning him in time just before Fort Knox stomped at him. He dodged out of the way and tried to get away from the beast, the massive stallion attacking him relentlessly until Blueblood managed to get some distance between the two.

The two Element Bearers tried to help, but the ground split open and they were both swallowed in a hole.

"No!" The prince could only look on in terror as they fell, ignoring the deranged stallion behind him. Instead, he noticed the screams of the other ponies as they tried to crawl and move away from the destruction Fort Knox was making.

"Now it’s your turn!" Fort Knox growled, lifting a metal crate and tossing it at Blueblood. The prince’s eyes shone white for a second and his horn flared out, creating a giant blue astral hand, the apparition catching the crate and crushing it effortlessly before vanishing like it was a mirage.

"What?" Fort Knox muttered, startled by this before being hit in the face by another hand appearing in the shape of a fist that sent him flying backwards.

The prince walked toward him angrily. "Okay, that is it!" Using his magic he levitated various crates and made an octagonal ring around the two. "No more running, no deals, no hostages, no traps. Just you and me, Fort. Let’s settle this once and for all!"

Fort Knox glared back at him before spitting out his golden tooth, removing both his suit and fedora as more gemstones appeared and surrounded the two.



Screaming again, the massive stallion stomped on the ground and made it shake, forcing the prince to kneel before he charged. Thinking fast, the prince charged up his horn and discharged a flash of light that blinded Fort Knox, forcing him to stop and give the prince some time to recover. Blueblood tried to counter with his astral hands, but his punches didn't do anything other than hurt his own hooves. Jumping backwards, the prince dodged one of Fort Knox’s attacks, leaving a hole in the ground.

If I hadn't dodged, I’d be a pancake now! the prince thought in shock at the sheer power the stallion had as he continued to dodge his charges.

Okay, think. He’s big, strong, and his body is like a rock. Can't attack directly, but he’s also not thinking clearly, which means…

Hugging one of the edges of the makeshift ring, the prince got ready for the next attack. Once Fort Knox was close enough, he discharged another flash and then dodged, making the stallion hit the crate and leaving him disoriented in the process. Wasting no time, the prince manifested his astral hands and grabbed one of Fort’s back hooves, yanking it with all of his might as he spun him around, hitting all of the crystals in the ring and finishing by ramming him against the crates.

Fort Knox growled, shook his head, and glared at the prince as soon as he recovered. He then looked at his hoofs, which were being surrounded by gems. The stones moved, creating shining claws held in his magic, making Fort smirk.

Blueblood’s eyes widened. Okay, that is new!

Fort Knox looked backwards and broke the crate behind him, pulling out gold bars which he then threw at the prince with enough force that they embedded themselves into several metal crates. The prince almost ended the same way if it wasn't for the crate he ripped off the floor and used for cover.

Now that’s just not fair, Blueblood thought. He’s clearly stronger and bigger. Cheerilee, if I survive this, I'm going back to Ponyville and demanding some answers!

Once he ran out of ammo, Fort Knox tried to barrel towards him again, but the prince managed to blind and dodge him once more, now not needing him to hit the edge of the ring and repeat the process. Fort used the advantage of the terrain to make columns of diamonds that he grabbed, launching them at the prince as they destroyed the rest of the ring. He then jumped on the columns on the ground and tried to pound Blueblood into the ground, cracking the floor even more. Blueblood kept dodging and tried to counter as much as he could, using any opening he could find. Unfortunately, the entire ordeal was draining him, and soon he found himself with almost no energy left, while Fort Knox showed almost no signs of fatigue.

How much more energy does this guy have?! Blueblood’s roared in his mind.

Feeling his body starting to give out, the prince knelt down holding his hoof in pain, the stress of the spells showing more and more. Fort Knox watched this and laughed in victory before stomping his hooves on the ground, creating two stone walls around the prince and trapping him in a straight line with no possibility to escape.

Blueblood just glared at him for a bit before looking down in defeat. Fort chuckled and then charged as fast as he could towards Blueblood, not noticing the smirk on the prince's face as he began gathering all of his energy on his hoof.

Alright, it’s all or nothing. No more regrets, time to make a wish come true!

The prince closed his eyes and measured the closing distance between the two, waiting for the opportunity.

This is for all points!

Dashing forward the prince placed himself underneath the stomach of his opponent and--

“Shoryuken!” Blueblood yelled, still smirking.

In one move, the prince executed a jumping uppercut with his charged hoof, which had enough force to take all the air out of Fort Knox's lungs and propel the two into the air as the prince’s body started to spin upwards. The astral hand appeared and traveled to Fort’s body until it hit the stallion on the chin, providing a second hit that sent the giant flying even further until Fort hit the white crystal. Blueblood’s opponent then fell into one of his metal crates full of bits, which promptly exploded and released all the money everywhere, leaving him on the ground unconscious and wounded with his new claws now shattered.

The prince collapsed on the ground breathing heavily as he chuckled, then smiling while looking at the rooftop. "I…I did it! My hoof is killing me, and I don't think I have any energy left, but holy crap I actually did it! I made a Shoryuken!" He yelled, pumping his hooves upwards and laughing in triumph, not caring how sore he was feeling now.

Once he caught his breath and recovered some energy, Blueblood moved to his left and with shaky legs slowly stood up. Trying to put as little weight as possible on his right hoofs, he slowly walked out of the ring.

"Blueblood!" The concerned voices of Rarity and Applejack caught his attention, and when looking up, he saw them both galloping toward him. Applejack let him rest against her side once they arrived. "Easy there, partner, Ah gotcha."

"Oh, you poor thing..." Rarity ripped a nearby dress (thankfully already filthy so it didn’t bother her) and improvised a sling for him to use and rest his hoof. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine girls; physically spent and really needing a vacation…and perhaps an ice pack for my hooves, but other than that, fine. It’s a miracle, but I don't think anything’s broken." He then looked to the side in some worry. "What about Amber and Stellar? Are they okay? How did you escape the hole?"

"Relax, partner,” Applejack chuckled. “To answer all that, a lot of stuff fell with us in that hole, so makin’ a pile for us to climb out wasn't hard. We then found those two guards and checked ‘em. They’re okay, still unconscious but neither of them seems to be badly hurt."

"Oh, thank Celestia," Blueblood sighed in relief.

"Which is more than Ah can say about him..." Applejack finished, looking behind them at Fort Knox, rather impressed. "That is one biiiig stallion. How exactly did ya manage to knock him into next week like that?"

The prince chuckled and shook his head. "I’ll tell you once I figure out how I pulled off half of the things I did during the fight," he replied as they walked toward the two guards.

Suddenly, a distorted voice that sounded like two mares speaking at once stopped them.

"Greed, the corruption whose existence will always be present in life..."

The three of them froze, and when they turned back, a pure white alicorn whose hooves ended in fog hovered behind them. Her flowing mane looked like mist, and her body was covered in worn out bandages which were starting to lose their holds on her body. She walked from the stream of light and approached the group. A bandage on her face was covering her left eye, and her right didn't show anything but pure light.

"What in the...?" the prince let out as Rarity held a hoof to her mouth in shock.

Applejack took a step forward and placed herself in front of them. "Who, or what, in tarnation are ya?"

The alicorn in question seemed to ignore the farmer and instead stared at the prince before extending one of her hooves.

"Hear my words, Your Highness. You have just taken the first step on your rightful path to ascension. Succeed, and a seat at your family table will be granted. But beware, the road ahead will be fraught with strife, so step lightly and do not stray from your path. Ecnirp eht, liah lla!" the alicorn mare exclaimed before shining even brighter to the point she blinded the three. When the light died down, she was gone.

"...Oooookay, what was--" the prince began, only to stop when he noticed that he was no longer tired, and his hoof wasn’t hurting anymore. "Did…did she just heal me?"

"Ah think she healed all of us, sugarcube," Applejack gasped, looking at her body with equal surprise. Even Rarity had recovered her make up as if nothing ever happened in the first place. They then heard groans coming from Blueblood’s guards as they started to wake up and hold their heads, shaking them occasionally.

"Seriously, what the hell just happened?" the prince asked in confusion.

"I ain’t no expert like Twilight, but if’n Ah were to guess, Ah’d say ya just took and passed some sorta mystical test," Applejack responded.

"Mystical test?" he asked, bewildered.

Both mares nodded. "Trust me darling, we’re very familiar with those," Rarity said with a roll of her eyes. "Although, I think this is the first one that isn't directed at us, being the Elements of Harmony and all," she pondered. “And that alicorn...I’ve never seen the likes of her!”

"Well, what am I supposed to do now?"

"Ah'm afraid ya’ll have to ask your aunts, Twilight, or Starlight for more on that, sugarcube. They’d probably know more about that strange ghost alicorn and that test she was talking about. For now, Ah think we should be taking care of our current situation." Applejack replied, pointing at Fort Knox, who remained passed out on the ground.

"Right..." The prince nodded before sighing and folding his ears. “Aw man...how am I gonna explain this to Celestia?"

Applejack and Rarity chuckled at his expression. "Don't worry darling, we’ll help you with the explanation," Rarity said, placing her hoof on his shoulder.

That helped him calm down, and he looked at both with a smile. "Thank you, girls.”
> Report And Reconciliation (RB, GT4 And BF)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The moment the group returned to city hall, the prince didn't waste any time and approached Celestia. Luckily for him, she had already dealt with the press, and by the time they arrived, the princess had finished talking with the traitorous guard and was on her way to the Golden Leaf.

The next couple of hours after that were spent dispatching soldiers and medics to transport the wounded, arresting Fort Knox and his thugs, and recovering all the contraband Fort Knox had in his possession. It was an ordeal that was already proving to be long and tedious, but to perform it in secret also turned it into a very slow process --- one that the princess took full advantage of to get a report from the group, culminating with her hearing the confession of Fort Knox on the recording.

"And after that, we left the place and came back with the hopes of getting more guards and making the necessary arrest," the prince said, finishing the story and looking back at Celestia. 

After hearing about the confession and Bluebood’s recount of events, the Sun Princess could only sigh and shake her head in disappointment. "When we came here, I had hoped for the start of a new alliance and an opportunity for a new family member to be introduced into our society. Instead, we now have two traitors, and even more problems that need to be addressed carefully and in due time to avoid panic."

"What’s going to happen to them, princess?" Applejack asked, slightly worried.

"They will be judged and punished for their crimes, of course. However, due to our recent alliance with the changelings, and because of the position Fort Knox holds, his trial, no matter what, will make news and will be exposed almost immediately. It’ll have to be delayed for a time.” She then looked Applejack dead in the eyes. “But I assure you, Applejack, not even the weight of all of Canterlot’s bits or information are going to save him. His crimes are as clear as day, and any information he might be in possession of will be useless. He will be receiving the maximum sentence."

"Well, I’d say that serves him right, after all he’s done over the years," Rarity huffed, sticking her chin up in the air in indignation.

Blueblood then put a hoof under his chin and glanced up at Celestia. "Auntie, do you have any clue who or what that alicorn ghost was?" he asked

Celestia shook her head. "I'm afraid not. Luna and I only have a few fragments of the alicorn tribe that preceded us. By the time we were conscious, all of them were already gone, so I don't have an answer of what they were." She then smiled and touched his cheek with a hoof. "But it's a mystery that I would be happy to unravel together as a family. And even though I'm not exactly happy that you have ventured into almost unknown dangers, scolding or punishing you would just make me seem like a hypocrite."

"Auntie?" Blueblood looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

"If I had been in your position, I’d have probably done the same thing. Despite the dangers, you acted as a true leader, wanting to protect your subjects while at the same time trying to ensure peace and avoid panic as much as possible,” Celestia continued. “Let this be a lesson, nephew --- the unexpected can happen at any moment in our line of work, so it's important to always keep a cool head and consider your options in the event of an emergency, just like today. You really acted like a true prince of Equestria," She used her wing to bring him into a hug. "And for that, I couldn't be more proud of you."

Blueblood blinked twice as Celestia embraced him, and then happily returned the gesture.

The Elements let the two have their moment for a while before Rarity walked toward them with a guilty frown and cleared her throat. "Um, excuse me..."

Blueblood and Celestia ended the hug and looked back at her. "Yes, Rarity?" Celestia asked.

"I know that I’ve already apologized back at the warehouse, but I feel like I need to do it once more now that our lives are no longer in danger,” she replied.

"Come on Rarity, there is no need for you to…" Blueblood tried to stop her, but Celestia placed a hoof on his shoulder.

"Actually, she does, Blueblood. As much as it pains me to say it, no matter the reason why, she still raised her hoof against royalty and lashed out without any sort of provocation. It's a major offense towards the crown, and punishment needs to be addressed," the princess explained with a regretful grimace. "I can't just overlook this, not when it comes to my family."

After that, she looked at Rarity with an imperious and neutral expression, which was enough to make Rarity flinch back. "Plus,” the Sun Princess added. “I also want to hear what she has to say. Depending on what she says, I will weigh a proper punishment."

"Auntie, please..." Blueblood placed his hoof on her shoulder with a worried expression. "There’s no need to go this far, the poor mare has suffered enough and she told me that she already learned--"

"It’s okay, Blueblood,” Rarity interrupted him by lifting her hoof and looking at him with determination. "This is something I need to do properly, and the princess is right. I wouldn't be calm if a similar situation had happened with Sweetie Belle. No matter what the consequences are, I will take my punishment with my chin up.”

Her words made the prince sighed in defeat and looked down. "There’s no escaping this, is there?"

"’Fraid not, partner. Just as the princess said, attackin’ royalty can't just be solved by a slap on the fetlock," Applejack sighed. "Don't worry, Ah'm sure the princess won’t be too hard on her,"

"That’s correct, Applejack. As furious and disappointed as I am right now, I promise to be completely fair," Celestia confirmed with a smile.

Nodding in understanding, the prince lifted his head and looked at Rarity, who took a deep breath before speaking. "Prince Blueblood, I just want to say that from the bottom of my heart, I truly am sorry for the poor treatment I’ve given you the past couple of days. In my line of work, I have seen others playing the friendly game to take advantage of defenseless ponies and swindle them out of every bit they had, and your previous image and actions were the reason why it was hard to believe a change in personality on your part. Plus, because of our story and my propensity for melodrama, I blinded myself into what I thought was justified paranoia, and never once gave you the chance anypony deserved." She ended her speech by giving him a bow of her head. "I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me for my rude and un-ladylike actions."

"Of course I do," Blueblood told her, bringing his hoof to her chin and making her look at him. "Now, please stand up Rarity. We’re friends, there’s no need for you to bow to me. Let's try to leave all of this behind us and start again, just like I offered you."

Rarity smiled a bit at that. "I would love that, yes."

"Even so, I still don't understand why you lashed out so violently, Rarity," Celestia remarked. "It’s true that you’re not afraid to show your discontent or wariness to others that have wronged you, but unless provoked or enchanted, you’ve never once resorted to physical harm."

"I don't understand it myself either, princess," Rarity told her plainly. "Ever since you told us the truth about Blueblood at the hospital, I’ve been completely on edge, and no matter how much I tried, I just couldn't relax or think straight. Not even making dresses, which usually calms me down, helped..." She sighed in disappointment. "And I really thought that the changeling necklace could offer me a challenge big enough for me to forget the whole ordeal."

Both royals’ eyes widened in surprise the moment she told them that. "Wait a minute," Blueblood exclaimed. "You’re telling us that all this time, you’ve been using the changeling necklace as a piece of garment on your dresses?!"

"I wasn't intending to keep it, I swear!" Rarity held her hooves up in defense, a bit panicked by the sudden shift in demeanor. "When we left the hospital, Thorax gave me the necklace, asking me to give it to Twilight so she can keep it safe until you take it back. It was too late at night, so I decided to keep it and then give it back first thing in the morning, but the designs on it, the perfect color for an autumn line of clothing, the possibilities for formal attire! I just couldn't resist the ideas. And before you say anything, I never activated it, I just wanted to know how it would look with the correct combination, and though I did, the anger just festered inside me. I...I still have it; I can return it once we are back at the hotel.”

"Oh Rarity, why?" The prince pinched the bridge of his nose and shook his head upon hearing this news. "Now it all makes sense."

"What?" She looked at both of them, clearly confused.

"Rarity..." The princess took a deep breath and then looked at her like a disappointed mother. "The reason why the changeling necklace is so dangerous is that when some pony uses it, his or her emotions at the time would flourish and grow according to what they change into, just like its title implies."

"That is why before using it, one must first clear their head and keep calm,” Blueblood continued. “If they don’t, the necklace will expand the user’s emotions to dangerous levels, even if you don't activate it. If you are happy, you’ll end up euphoric. if afraid, then you’ll be completely terrified. If angry…"

"…Then furious," Rarity finished as her eyes widened in realization. "Now I understand. The necklace kept feeding my anger and increasing it. I didn't understand what was happening, so I just kept using it, and the cycle just continued!"

"Now Ah get it!” Applejack said. “Over the past few days, ‘cause ya were wearin’ that thing, your anger just kept growin’ and growin’ until it reached a boilin’ point and then ya slapped him. No wonder ya’ve been actin’ so outta sorts all this time, that necklace was keepin’ ya from seein’ reason."

"Indeed, and it wasn't until you stopped using it and talked with Fort Knox that you finally managed to calm down and see what was going on in your heart,” Celestia said as she approached the Element of Generosity. "I'm happy to know that you’re safe, and that you understand the reason behind your actions, but I'm also disappointed that you were so careless in dealing with enchanted artifacts. You could have easily endangered your life."

"I'm so sorry, princess…” Rarity responded, bowing her head in guilt. “I promise I’ll be more careful from now on.”

"For now, we’ll need to remedy this situation. If you use the necklace so many times, then the risk of lingering magic might still be on your body." Celestia started to prepare her horn. "Stay still, my scan will only take a moment."

At that moment, Blueblood had an idea and stepped in front of the princess."Wait, auntie.”

She stopped and looked at him. "Yes?"

"Before you do that, can I talk with you for a second?" he asked her before pulling her away from the two Elements who just blinked in confusion as the prince whispered something in the princess's ear.

"If an opposite emotion is placed upon her, can it counteract the present one?" Blueblood asked

"Well, yes. It would be like pouring water on a fire. Why?"

The prince grinned. "If that’s the case, then I think I have the perfect idea on how to erase all lingering anger in Rarity and give her a fitting punishment all at once."

That made the princess smile. "I'm listening."

After explaining the plan, the princess matched his grin and nodded before the two returned to the Elements. "Well Rarity, it seems like today is your lucky day," the princess stated in a calm voice. "Thanks to my nephew’s quick thinking, we managed to come up with an idea to help you and punish you at the same time, without being overly severe.”

"Really?" Rarity looked at both with a smile before flinching and slightly backing away once they grinned and chuckled.

"Oh yeah, Rarity, this is going to be perfect," Blueblood answered. "Since the changeling necklace made this mess, we’ll use it one final time to solve it."

Rarity gulped.





Later that day at an ice cream shop

The group entered the establishment and soon placed their orders, leaving just one to say something.

"And what would you like, Annie Belle?" The prince asked with a smile as he turned to look at his back. A thoroughly embarrassed and blushing Rarity, now turned into a filly version of herself, but with a red afro wig and wearing a messy brown dress underneath a green, polka-dotted one. Her tail was now red and frizzy, making it almost resemble Pinkie Pie. Around her neck hung the changeling necklace, and her face even had some freckles on it.

"Just...order anything for me..." she responded, burying her face in the prince’s back in complete mortification.

"Didn't ya say that ya’d take your punishment with your chin up?" Applejack teased her, smirking slightly.

"I didn't think that I would take it like this!" the unfortunate filly quickly retorted.

"Too bad, because this one was the less painful one. The other option involved a pretty big shot and one of your tushies," the prince responded with a grin.

Rarity’s eyes widened and she glanced at him fearfully. “Please no, I hate needles!”

The prince just chuckled. "Understood, no shot for you." He then looked in front of them. "So, what flavor would you like?"

"Uhhh, that one!" Rarity pointed to the most expensive and biggest ice cream sundae they had, as her inner filly began to take over.

"Great choice, Annie,” the princess nodded before turning back to her. “But you know our deal: if you want a big sundae, you’ll have to earn it by doing what we told you.”

"But I don't want to," she whined, crossing her forelegs, some heat appearing on her cheeks again.

"I’ll ask them to add an extra scoop of ice cream if you do~..." Blueblood sweetened the deal.

Despite herself, her eyes widened and her mouth watered. "Promise?"

"I promise."

 

“Fine, I’ll do it, but not a word of this to anypony, especially Rainbow!" Rarity jumped down from the prince and walked to the center of the room before clearing her throat. From seemingly nowhere, musical instruments started to play.

Blueblood blinked and looked around in confusion. "Who’s playing that music?"

Meanwhile, the others kept looking at Rarity, with Applejack even trying to contain her laughter at what she was seeing. As she continued to sing, a small crowd started to gather in happiness, enjoying the performance. Some parents even “aww’ing” at how adorable she looked.

"No seriously, who’s playing that music?" the prince asked again, continuing to try to find the source of it.

"Oh, give it a rest, Your Highness," Amber told him before handing him his ice cream. "These kinds of things just happen. I’d say it's the magic of Equestria itself.”

"I…see," the prince responds, deciding to just accept the fact and take the ice cream in his magic.

And just when I thought I had this place figured out. Will this world ever stop surprising me?

He smiled and shook his head as they continued to watch Rarity’s performance. Next to him, Celestia let out a giggle. "Well, nephew, I have to say, this was indeed a brilliant idea on your part.”

"Are you sure nothing bad will happen to her?" Coco asked in worry. "I’ve never seen Rarity act like this before."

"It’s completely natural, Coco," the prince replied, calming her down. "That necklace is what makes her think like a foal, which is perfect since all of her anger is being purged from her body as we speak. Perhaps she’ll act a bit foalish for a few minutes after we take it away, but afterwards she’ll be as good as new.”

"And why did ya teach her that particular song?" Applejack asked with a raised eyebrow.

"That is the final part of her punishment, AJ. Believe me, try as you might, that song will be stuck in your head for weeks," he replied with a smirk. "One last reminder for her to have next time she is trusted with something dangerous."

"Oh..." Applejack nodded in understanding. "Okay, now Ah get it."

Once the song ended, everypony in the shop stomped their hooves on the ground and cheered for Rarity, who just smiled and pranced to the counter, waiting for her reward.





Meanwhile, in Canterlot...

Shining Armor rushed through the hallways on his way to Luna’s bedroom, knocking furiously on the door as soon as he reached them. Soon, the Princess of the Night opened the door with a mixture of worry and irritation written on her face.

"Shining Armor, what’s wrong? Do you have any idea what time of night this is? Why the sudden--?"

"I...I found it!" he quickly interrupted, raising a hoof and trying to catch his breath. After a moment, he regained his composure and looked at her again. "I found out how Blueblood was killed!"
> Tectonic Scale News (RB, GT4 And BF)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once they both ensured that nopony would be eavesdropping, along with casting various sound and vision spells in Blueblood’s room, the Princess of the Night turned to her nephew-in-law. "That will suffice; nopony will be able to hear us now," she murmured as she stood next to Shining Armor.

"Perfect, now we can finally talk properly," Shining nodded.

"Indeed. Now, what exactly am I looking at, Shining Armor?" Princess Luna asked him as they both stared at Blueblood’s bed.

Before responding, the prince walked towards the bed and pulled off the sheets and cover, revealing a hidden sweat stain in the perfect shape of a pony. "Our crime scene, as well as Blueblood’s cause of death," Shining replied, pointing at the stain.

The princess looked at the spot and raised an eyebrow. "You believe that he was...dehydrated to death?"

"At first I thought so, yeah, since this seems like the only thing unusual in the room. But things didn’t add up. First, why didn’t the maids clean the sheets? The bed’s made and everything, but the stain’s still there. And no matter how you look at it, it just seems like Blueblood had sweat a lot, but this level of sweat is ridiculous. With all the fur on our body, we just couldn't make this much. Heck, not even during my trips to Saddle Arabia have I ever sweat so much. I’ve even talked to some of the guards, and they’ve confirmed that there wasn’t any sudden heat waves in the past few months, so it’s not that either. And that is when I found out that this wasn’t sweat at all, but something else.”

He looked at the sweat stain again and used his magic to levitate a spray bottle and a piece of paper. He then sprayed the paper with some liquid and pressed it against the stain. Seconds later, the paper turned pink and he presented it to the princess with a serious expression. "It’s blood disguised as sweat. That’s why the stain didn’t get removed during the wash, because blood is extremely hard to clean."

"By my stars!" Luna’s eyes widened as she looked at the blood stain, which had a perfect shape of her nephew. "All of that…is blood? But how? Doctor Caliber didn't find any injuries or poison in his system, and the maids would have found the blood on the bed sheets. How could that have been hiding?"

"That’s the thing, princess. Like I said, it’s disguised as sweat. When I investigated the room, I didn't find any forced entry on the door or the windows, there wasn't any magic residue other than the maid's levitation, and as far as I’ve gathered, there hasn’t been any unusual activity in the guard schedule patrolling. Whoever did this simply walked in, released some type of poison, and left as the prince literally sweated blood until he perished from anemia, while the poison most likely diluted or evaporated," the prince explained with a grim face and a shiver. "It must’ve been an exotic poison too, since it also made all his blood look like simple sweat to the naked eye, AND after finishing its job returned his body to relatively normal, leaving no trace behind. My guess is that it was airborne and was unleashed here, so it could only work in closed spaces. Otherwise the guards on duty securing his door would have suffered as well. That, or his food was drugged and it required the victim to fall asleep before attacking. In either case, it was a clean job."

"My nephew… he died while sleeping," the princess whispered in horror. "I could’ve saved him if only I had noticed." She shook her head in guilt and looked at Shining Armor with a serious expression. "Good job, Shining Armor. We finally have our first clue, now we know how to start." She started to levitate the sheets off the bed. "I'm going to send this to the royal lab for analysis. With any luck, there is still some residue of the original poison on it. In the meantime, I need you to continue digging around among the royal guards and the staff on duty during that night. No matter how subtle it was, some pony must have heard or seen something unusual during that night. We need to find more clues."

"Will do," Shining nodded, giving her a salute. "But at least with this we can be sure of something. The killer must have known what they were doing, has the means to acquire something illegal and most likely expensive, and has a good understanding and layout of the castle.”

“So we can cross out the middle and lower classes in almost all of Equestria,” said Luna.

Shining nodded. “Which leaves only the staff on duty that night…"

"And the upper class in Canterlot," Luna finished for him, looking down in thought while glaring. "I see what you’re saying, Shining, and I agree. We have just reduced three quarters of our suspect list, and with the reports my spies have given me, I believe we can narrow that list down even more. We’re close to catching the killer now, but we still need to tread lightly if we intend to grab them by surprise." Her horn then lit up as she prepared a teleportation spell.

Shining nodded and headed to the front door. "Then I’ll be heading back to work. I think it's time I go hit the bar with some buddies of mine." He then started to smirk. "I'm sure some cider will help them clear their heads and tell me anything unusual they’ve seen.”

"Best of luck," Luna commented as she teleported away with the sheets as Shining left the room.





Days later, in the Court of Canterlot

With the surprise of the addition of changelings into nobility still running through the populace, Princess Celestia had no other option but to delay Fort Knox’s trial, at least until things calmed down a little to avoid associating them with his arrest. Luckily for her, with the aid of the Element of Laughter and some well-placed tidbits of news and parties in Canterlot, the unification of Changelings and nobility proceeded as smoothly as putting on a horseshoe.

And now that one problem was over and done with, the other could be easily taken care of.

Even though it was inevitable for the news to be made public almost immediately, the trial of Fort Knox finally arrived without raising any rumours and, despite his connections and lawyers, the outcome was as clear as day. He would be found guilty of high treason, illegal possession and selling of contraband, attempted murder, and regicide. There was no way for him to escape, and his only remaining option was a bargain for a reduced sentence. Yet, despite being cornered and about to be sentenced, the stallion in question remained calm and collected during the entire trial, even when his lawyer quit in frustration in the middle of it, leaving the poor stallion to fend for himself. That calm demeanor was almost unsettling, and it was certainly irking the princesses, who acted as the judges during the whole ordeal.

Hitting her gavel a couple of times, the Princess of the Day once again called for order in the court as she proceeded with the sentence of Fort Knox, with the representative for the jury standing up to deliver their verdict.

A bespectacled mare stood up and cleared her throat. “Pon complete consideration of the evidence and...admittedly rather short deliberation, we declare the accused guilty, Your Honor.”

“Very well.” The princess nodded to the jury before looking at the condemned stallion in question. One of his eyes was still swollen, his left forehoof was in a cast, and he was currently wearing a neck brace…all painful reminders of his last fight against Blueblood. “Mister Fort Knox, before I proceed with your sentence, I will grant you one final moment to speak. Is there one final thing you wish to declare?”

"Yes, Your Highness," the stallion announced before standing up. "Although I applaud your success in bringin’ me to justice, and I don’t deny the jury’s verdict, I'm afraid my case is worth a royal pardon." He smirked at the royal sisters in turn. "I'm just too valuable for ya to put away." With that, he sat back and watched as the room descended into mild chaos. Ponies throughout the entire room exploded into a series of harsh whispers and muffled boos of displeasure. Soon the whispers rose to a dull roar, and some of the ponies began to stand up from their chairs to protest Fort Knox’s sudden declaration.

Celestia was quick to try to rectify the situation, as she slammed her gavel down repeatedly to restore the peace. "Order! We will have order!" she demanded. Nevertheless, her cries went unheeded, and soon two Ponies got into a small brawl when one of them accidentally shoved another into the side of his bench.

"SILENCE!" Luna bellowed in the Canterlot Voice, causing all voices to cease and all eyes to be turned towards her as silence once again fell upon the room. As Ponies returned to their seats, Fort Knox’s smirk grew wider.

Luna glared at him from her seat next to her sister, anger burning in her eyes. "How dare you demand such a request? What could you possibly have in your possession that makes you so sure that you can have a pass from these kinds of transgressions?"

Fort Knox chuckled and looked at them with a raised eyebrow. "Ain't it obvious, Your highness? I'm the Duke of Information and Goods not only in Manehattan, but also in all of Equestria. My business goes far and wide in the underworld, and if I was taken outta the picture, Equestria’s economy would tank!" he declared in confidence. "Makin’ dis sham of a trial public will risk our economy grindin’ to a halt, and keepin’ quiet means dat ya have no right to arrest me. How’s dat for some final words?"

"Why you…" Luna growled, beginning to lose her patience.

Celestia put a wing in front of her and shook her head, turning to Fort Knox with a stern expression. "Your threats are worthless here, Fort Knox. This is not the first time others have tried to intimidate us with wealth, and it will not be the last. We are already aware of all your deals and contacts you could possibly offer us, and their arrests will not even faze Canterlot."

The smile on Fort Knox’s face wavered slightly, as the princess smirked in victory. "You have nothing of worth, so now it's time for your sentence,” she continued. “Fort Knox, for your actions against the crown and crimes against Equinity, I sentence you to be exiled and taken to Gelid Maiden for life. Your rights as an Equestrian citizen will be completely revoked, and you will be cursed so that any attempt in returning to your homeland will result in your transformation into a statue forever." No longer repressing her grin, she added for finality: "If you return and are destroyed as a statue, you will be classified as nothing more than an object, like the same objects that you yourself bargained with.” She looked to the guards standing near her. "Guards, take him."

Fort Knox growled and stood up, slamming his forehooves on the railing in front of his stand. "Wealth ain’t the only thing Ii’ve got, princess. My web of information goes even further dan the Badlands, perhaps we can negotiate a deal," he revealed as guards began to surround him.

Celestia raised an eyebrow in disbelief, and Fort Knox’s demeanor slowly started to crack as his mind raced to find a way out. "Your nephew!" he yelled at last.

Instantly the room grew colder, and the gazes of both monarchs hardened. "Choose your next words carefully, my friend," Luna warned him, venom dripping from her words.

"I know ‘bout crimes he’s committed in the past! Times where he abused his status for shallow reasons. More dan enough to give ya a reason to lock him up for good! If ya put me away, I’ll spill dem beans, and den ya will regret your decision today. Do ya really wanna take dat chance? Soil dat precious, perfect image of yours as rulers?"

"They don't have to risk anything, Fort,” said Blueblood, speaking for the first time during the trial as he stood up from his seat next to his guards. "Just like I promised at the press conference, I'm a changed stallion now, and as such, I’ll make up for all my past sins. Every single one of them." He pointed to Fort Knox. "The only thing you’ll be doing is giving me a 'To Do' list, so go ahead and make my day. Expose my secrets, I command you."

Fort Knox’s jaw dropped. "W-what?! Are ya serious? Do ya have any idea what ya are demandin’? Your title will be dragged through the mud, ponies will see how wicked and twisted ya really were. Nopony will ever trust ya!"

"Then I’ll build up that trust from scratch," the prince replied evenly, shrugging.

"Enough of this prattle! Guards, take him away!" Luna ordered, and the guards complied, grabbing Fort Knox by his shoulders and forelegs and hauling him away, dragging his hind legs along the floor.

As they did, Fort Knox reached out, his gaze pleading. "No, wait! Princess, listen, I'm tellin’ ya, ya need to reconsider! I'm more useful here dan in Gelid Maiden! Please, I’m beggin’ ya!"

"There’s nothing you can offer that will be of interest for us," Celestia stated coldly as she and her sister stood up. Celestia raised her gavel to slam it down one final time. "Case clo--"

“NOT EVEN INFO ON PONIES PLANNIN’ A REGICIDE?!" Fort screamed, fighting off the guards.

The room went completely silent and still as Celestia looked up from her gavel to the guilty stallion, her gavel just a hair’s breadth away from striking. "What...did you just say?"

"Ya heard me, dere are dose dat wish to destroy the royal family for one reason or another, Your Highness." He looked at Blueblood with a glare. "Some even with justified reasons..." He then looked back at the princesses. "If ya’d be willin’ to reduce my sentence, I’ll give ya a big ol’ list of ‘em. My safety in exchange for yours, what d’ya say? It's a good deal, huh?"

Both Luna and Celestia glowered at him outwardly, but inwardly they had joined minds in a telepathic debate.

Sister, he might know about the case! One of the ponies on the list might be the one that killed Blueblood!

Relax Luna, we can't be too hasty…it could easily be a scheme to save his skin. Yet we can’t just let the opportunity go to waste.

With a sigh, Celestia shook her head. "Guards, bring him forward,” she ordered and put the gavel down. The monarchs looked at Fort Knox intently as he settled back into his seat.

"This is a serious matter you are claiming, Fort Knox; you’d better be telling the truth. Lying to us now will result in an even worse punishment," Luna warned him, causing him to gulp.

"I'm dead serious, Your Highness,” he replied as calmly as possible. “At the moment, all of ‘em are all bark and no bite since all of ya are here, but as we speak, dey could be preppin’ for somethin’ big."

Celestia closed her eyes and weighed her options before opening them once more. "In light of such a revelation, we are willing to...reconsider the weight of your punishment."

"Oh, thank ya," Fort Knox sighed in relief.

But Celestia wasn’t done. "Don’t relax yet, Fort Knox. We will not be granting you a pardon, only reducing your sentence. This sentence will be final today, but can be revoked and changed again depending on the information you give us, so I would be very open and cooperative if I were you." She lifted her gavel once more. "Your sentence will be as follows: you will be given a will to write down the name and location of a pony you trust. Choose carefully, for that pony will be entrusted with looking after you for the next fifty years, while you will be trapped in a small, silver statuette of yourself."

Luna pitched in after that. "During that time, we will investigate and arrest the names on the list of traitors you will provide. This shall be your only warning, Fort Knox: if even one name turns out to be false, you will not be given a fifty-year sentence inside a silver statuette. Instead, it will be five hundred years inside a wooden one, and if the pony and their descendants decide to get rid of you or if you are destroyed by any means, your death will be recorded as ‘lost object’."

Fort Knox’s blood froze upon hearing about his punishment as Celestia hit the gavel at last. "Case closed,” she said. “Guards, take the prisoner back to his cell. Fort Knox, you have twenty-four hours to decide on a will and who will be entrusted with your safety. Get to it." With that, she, her sister, the jury, and everypony else in the courtroom began to file outside.





The verdict soon spread like wildfire throughout Equestria, and ponies everywhere were shocked when they discovered the truth of the matter. His family had broken down in tears once they received the news of how far their son had gone, and even old clients were completely terrified at the implications of his arrest.

As for Upper Crust and Jet Set, after reading the story about the trial in the newspaper, they wasted no time in sweeping their mansion from top to bottom, looking for anything that could associate them with Fort Knox. Just to be extra safe, they also made sure that there was nothing he might have given them that could be suspicious, including grinding a porcelain vase he had given them for Jet Set’s birthday into powder and dumping it into several different fountains.

When it was done, Upper Crust looked to her husband and wiped her forehead. "Okay Jet, I think that’s all of it. Are you completely sure that we got rid of everything?"

"Uhh…um…" Jet Set looked around their house in worry until Upper Crust grabbed his shoulder and shook him.

"Answer me, Jet! Did we or did we not?!"

"Yes, yes!"

"Good! Now remember, we’re the representatives of the upper class, sweetie, so we must remain calm, cool and collected,” she said to him, but it sounded like it was meant for herself. "We didn't try anything against Blueblood, we’re not traitors to the crown, and we’re not accomplices of any criminals...we’re just two more helpless victims of the nobility who were tricked by that brutish thug." She looked at their reflection and smoothed out her dress.

Jet Set approached his wife. "You’re right, honey, there’s nothing to be afraid of." He gave her a smile and kissed her cheek. "By Celestia, how I envy your confidence sometimes..."

"It's a gift from my lineage," she chirped with pride.





Meanwhile, in her own mansion, Scarlet had already finished reading the news and was cutting out part of the article. "So, old Forty just got himself arrested like the idiot he is. Well, that’s just what he gets for hurting my sweet, handsome prince..." She then looked at the image of Blueblood with dreamy eyes and drew a heart around it with lipstick. Oh, my poor, brave prince...don’t worry, mama’s gonna make sure to kiss ALL your little booboos goodbye.

She then kissed the image, leaving a mark, and then pasted the article against the wall where other images of Blueblood were spread around like a shrine. She bowed her head to a great painting of his handsome visage, then sniffed the air with a contented sigh, letting the scent of Blueblood’s favorite cologne fill her lungs.

And then I’ll make sure you’ll be mine...





Meanwhile, in a spa resort in Appleloosa...

Sharp Shot took a glance at the article before he resumed drinking his cider.

"Anything good?" a female voice called from behind him.

"Fort Knox just got himself arrested, the moron," he calmly replied.

"Knox...Knox...Knox?" the mare kept repeating to herself. Sharp Shot turned to look at a very plump pegasus mare who, with her light grey mane, overly big wings, and straight and short mane and tail, looked like a living pillow. She leaned on a sofa while sunbathing near a pool, the two being the only ponies at the place. "Did I know him? Ah, doesn't matter, I’ll just ask Blueblood once he comes again," she said with a smirk, making Sharp Shot roll his eyes as he turned back to his drink.





In a cave near the Badlands...

Two hooded ponies walked inside, guided by the light of their torches, as they approached a room in the heart of the cave that was lit from a lone light bulb. Inside the room sat a pony that could very well have been Blueblood’s twin had it not been for his black mane and tail as well as being an earth pony. He jumped slightly as they entered, before smiling and then sitting down at a wooden table in the middle of the room.

"Well, hello there,” he greeted them with a serene smile. "Sorry for the mess, but...well…" He motioned around the room with a hoof. “I don’t get many visitors these days. Not for quite some time, in fact.”

The hooded ponies looked around the room and stared as they beheld hundreds of dolls of Blueblood ripped to pieces, with the words 'die Blueblood, die' engraved and painted on the walls everywhere. Also spread around the room were dozens of wanted posters, each having daggers stabbed into the faces. All sorts of weapons were spread around on the floor, as well as the recently shredded newspaper. 

He looked back at them, his teeth beginning to show themselves in his smile. "So, what can I do for you? Anypony you want me to collect?" he asked, his mannerisms disturbingly friendly.

The hooded ponies looked at one another before showing him a wanted poster with the image of Prince Blueblood on the front.

The mysterious stallion’s right eye twitched and his grin grew even more, now making him more like he was possessed than friendly. He grabbed the poster with his forehooves and examined it further, before placing it down on the table. "You have my undivided attention, my friends. Come, come! Let's talk pricing. What about the special of the day, first one free, hmmm?"
> Royal Jester (SL 96)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the morning rays of the sun bathed the castle, both Princess Celestia and Prince Blueblood had a nice little stroll in their garden as she levitated some books with her magic. 

“What are we doing here so early Aunty? Not that I'm complaining or don't like your company but isn't this the time when you are preparing for day court?” Blueblood mentioned with a raised eyebrow.

"Before yesterday, I would have agreed with you Blueblood, but due to the recent events with the noble you captured and that proclamation of groups planning a regicide, security measures had to be put in place and my usual duties put on hold. Until the problem is resolved at least." She mentioned before looking back at him with a smile "Besides, threat or no threat I did promise you that we will study some advanced magic as soon as you recovered, and I intend to keep it." 

That caught the attention of the prince "Wait, so you are going to teach me new and more powerful spells?" He asked, getting excited by the idea as his aunt nodded with a smile.

"Indeed, but not here, in the open it's too dangerous, usually I would have just invited you to one of my classes and teach you with all my other students, but since we are under alert right now, it will be safer if we train in secret." She explains as they continue to walk and eventually stopped once they reached the entrance of the labyrinth. The princess used her magic to open a secret entrance tunnel with a dusty concrete road on, the path located on the ground near its entrance. "Only Luna, Cadence and I know about this room, it will be the perfect place to start our lessons," She tells before stepping aside "After you." 

The prince nodded before entering the tunnel, the princess soon following and closing the door behind her, before illuminating the room with her horn, revealing ancient pictures of past wars and battles on its walls. "What is this place?" Blueblood asks as they walk through the tunnel. 

"The vault of war, Canterlot history and recollection of past battles, wars and conflict that we have endured and overcome since its creation." Celestia explained "Every major event that has ever happen in here has being recollected and painted in this wall so they can endure the pass of time." She mentions as they continue to advance until they reach a spacious and well-lit room thanks to some diamonds that act as a source of light, equipped with training dummies, some weapons, training equipment and a ring in the center. 

"And here we are, mine and Luna’s personal training room." Celestia tells as she stepped inside and put her regalia on a nearby dummy and the books on a wooden table. "In the past this room served to train unicorns in dark arts, but now I mostly use it when I wish to polish my moves and where no pony will bother…" Before she has time to finish that sentence they hear some humming near them and when they turn around, the two discover some weird snake type of creature made out of what looks to be different animals parts, casually drawing on the walls with some crayons. "…us..." 

"Ammm, Aunty do you also see…?" The prince slowly asks as he raises his hoof toward the creature. 

"I'm seeing it Blueblood," She tells in irritation before approaching him, the creature seemly ignorant of their presence "Discord!" The princess yells in anger, startling the creature and causing him to crumble into pieces before re-assembling in front of her. The acting managing to scare and force Blueblood to back away a little. "Oh princess, you scared me," He tells with a smirk before looking at her with a raised eyebrow. "You know it's rude to sneak up toward others while they are in their secret painting room." 

"Secret painting…Discord this place is an ancient room used to train the best warriors Equestria ever had, not your personal studio!" The princess tells in irritation 

Wait a minute, Discord? Discord? Why does that name sound familiar? Blueblood pounders as the princess and the creature continue to argue. 

"Well excuse me, princess. No pony seems to be using it, and when I saw all those drawings on the wall on the way here I believed this place served another purpose." He then notices that she wasn't wearing her regalia "Although it seems that it serves for more than just training." 

Celestia doesn't let his staring bother her as she continues "Those drawings are portrayed of past battles and…" The princess sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose "Discord, please tell me you didn't paint over any of those drawings?" 

"Oh tsk, tsk, tsk, Celestia, you think so poorly of me I would never interfere with the work of a fellow agent of chaos." Discord tells her as he appeared wearing a brush, a painting table with some colors and a beret. 

After taking a breath to calm down the princess looks back at their unexpected guest much more relaxed. "Well that is a worry I can lift off my shoulders. Now, can you explain why are you here? Normally I wouldn't mind your unexpected visits but today is not a good time." 

"Is that so?" Discord looked at her with a smirk while snapping his fingers and returning to normal.

Wow, how did he do that? Is he like this world's version of the genie? Blueblood wonders in surprise at his antics. 

"Could it perhaps be related to why Canterlot is being so chaotic recently?" He asks in intrigue. "I took some days off from my busy schedule of bringing some chaos here and there and what do I find when I return? Nobles panicking everywhere? Old laws being revived? A pony transform into a statuette? Honestly Celestia, throwing a chaos party and you don't invite me? I'm deeply offended!" He mentions as he wraps himself around the princess like a snake.

"That’s because all of that, was out of my control." Celestia defended herself before smiling "Besides, it couldn't be call a 'chaotic party' if you plan for it, right? So, how can I invite you, when not even I knew what was going on?" Discord was about to respond pointing at her only to be left silent and then unwrapped himself. "Well played." 

He then starts to lazily float around the room, rocking himself back and forward on his body, pretending that he was on a hammock "So care to put me up to speed with what is going on?" He tells while closing his eyes 

The princess sighed and shook her head. "Is that all you want?" 

He pops into existence on her mane. "I will be out of your mane as soon as you explain things up to and how your nephew is now the new hot topic." 

"Before we do that, can I ask who or exactly what are you?" Blueblood asked with a raised eyebrow, gaining the attention of Discord as he looks at him with a smile 

"Would you like to know?" He appears in the center of the room and levitates the prince before making the drawings he was making move. "Here, let me draw you a picture, it all started when a young and mischievous lord of chaos…" Discord started to explain using a drawing, a version of himself when something makes him stop and he puts the Prince down as he looked at him confused.

"Wait a minute." He stood in front of him and conjured a magnifier which he used to look into his ear. "There is something wrong here, you are definitely the same prince I know and love to prank occasionally, but at the same time you are not. Almost like you are a pony I haven't seen before. You have a new look I can't understand." He tells turning into a monkey and jumping into his hair before checking for lice "New haircut?" He asks looking at the prince face to face.

"Um.." 

Before he could answer Celestia picks Discord up in her magic and levitated him away "Ok Discord that is enough, there is no need for you to scare him." 

"Me? Scare him?" Discord turns back to normal and looks at her honestly surprise "He is the one that is confusing me!" He tells her pointing at Blueblood and then at himself "ME, The spirit of chaos, how can that, even be possible?" 

The princess just sighs and shakes her head "It's kind of a long story, but for now, I think the first thing in order is the introductions." She tells before presenting one another. 

"Nephew, meet Discord. An ancient magical creature and the personification of chaos itself." Celestia tells pointing at Discord "He is a…friend of the family." She tells after thinking about it for a brief moment.

"Ah! I get it now, nice to meet you Discord!" Blueblood tells with a wave which just keeps confusing the lord of chaos while also making multiply question marks appear out of nowhere above his head, as Celestia turns to Discord "And Discord meet once again my nephew, Blueblood. He had a recent close encounter with death and well…" She then realized something "Wait, shouldn't you already be knowing all of this? You read the article, didn't you?" 

"Oh please Celestia, you really thought that I couldn't sniff out fake news?" He mentions while crossing his arms and raising an eyebrow "Yes I read it, but after looking over all the chaos that it's making, I simply needed to know what was all the commotion." He tells appearing with a notebook and a hat that says 'Press' on it making the princess of the day giggle "I suppose it is kind of pointless keeping a secret from you, isn't it?"

"Yep, so tell me all about it and do not cut corners I want to know every single detail," He tells in excitement as he continues to write in his notebook so fast that it actually catch itself on fire before the ash left behind swirls back towards his hand before reforming back into the notebook. 

"Wait!" Blueblood yell startling the princess "I just remembered," He tells with a smile before approaching Discord "A friend of yours told me about you, she said that I couldn't possibly miss you once I saw you," He ponders before looking back at Discord "She wasn't lying." 

He just chuckles and poses in front of him "What can I say?" He transformed into a baseball trading card and floats toward Blueblood until he picks it up, Discord talking with him wearing a baseball uniform "I'm one of a kind." 

Blueblood chuckle at his antics "And that is to put it lightly, also I have a message for you." 

"Oh really?" Discord teleports and returns to normal. "What is it? Did Fluttershy wish for me to bring some new tea? Want to make a nice little picnic in my dimension? Oh! Perhaps she wants to make a play date with Twilight Sparkle?" He tells him constantly teleporting the three to his home, a tea shop, and even Twilight’s castle as she brushes her teeth, almost swallowing her toothbrush from the scare. 

"Take us back Discord." Celestia tells him with some annoyance. 

He rolls his eyes, causing them to fall out and roll on the floor before he picks them back up, but compiles and they found themselves back in the cave. Blueblood laughing at what happened "Oh yeah, you two really are alike, and no it's not Fluttershy who asked me for a favor." 

That confused Discord as he turns to him "It’s not?" 

Blueblood shake his head "Nope, it was Lady Death." 

"Lady Death? I don't know anyone by that…" Discord eyes wide in realization "Wait, you mean THE Lady Death? The grim reaper? The mare of a thousand faces? Wears a hoodie and likes to use a lot of makeup?" Discord asks with some degree of worry as he passes his claw on his face and seconds later he looks like he was wearing skull makeup. "THAT Lady Death!?" 

"That is the one, although I'm confused with the face thing, she looked like Pinkie when we talked, or that is also part of the 'no logic' thing?" Blueblood ponders as Celestia moves Discord away from him.

"Now you understand why this is not a good moment for your visit?" She tells in sadness "A lot of things have happened and are spinning out of control these past weeks. The biggest of them all was his event with death itself, but the experience has allowed me a second chance, for me to reconnect with my family." She then looked at him with pleading eyes directly into his. "Please Discord, in the past I wasn't there for Blueblood when he needs me the most. I want to make up for lost time." 

Discord gets uncomfortable at the display and backs away. "Ok, ok! I get it! I will leave you two alone just stop making that face! Geez Celestia, you only needed to tell me that this was a family thing you were doing." He complains while rolling his eyes multiple times in different directions. "I know when a pony needs a moment. I learned my lesson since the worm incident." He says while shivering a bit from the memory. "Just make sure to tell me the story later, ok? I still want to know what is going on here." 

Celestia smile and nods. "You have my word." 

"Plus I want you to consider my idea for your day court too, Celestia. I mean come on! Just think about it. A Royal Jester? Say Goodbye to a boring meeting for life." He offers her with a smile as she rolls her eyes with a smile.

"You really want to wear that hat with the bells don’t you?" 

"No pony should be torture with so many hours of uninterrupted boredom." Discord complains.

"I will consider it." Celestia finally tells him as they go back over to Blueblood who looks at both confused. "Did something happen?"

The princess shake her head. "Not at all, I was just explaining to him why this wasn't the best moment for a visit." She mentions pointing at the books "Nothing against him but due to how advanced the spells are, concentration is needed and we can't afford distractions." 

"You know if you want to teach him some new magic I could be of help." Discord offered lifting one of his claws but Celestia stoped him using one of her wings "Don't." 

He just rolls his eyes and looks at Blueblood. "Yeah, that and because this sounds boring, I decided to leave for now and come back later but before that, didn't you say you have a message from old Death?" 

"Yep," The prince tells with a nod "D asked me to tell you that she is ready to cash in that favor you own her." The prince explains, as the princess slowly turns to Discord with a raised eyebrow "Favour you own her? Why would the lord of chaos own death herself a favor?" 

"Oh I could tell you, but look at the clock!” He tells her while conjuring a cuckoo clock that he was wearing as a wrist clock "I'm going to be late for my head polisher!" He tells taking his own head off and starts to clean it like its a bowling ball. "I would love to stay and chat but I have to bounce bye!" Discord then turn into a ball and bounced off the wall before he was swallowed by one of them like it was made of water leaving the prince confused and startled by all that.

"Well…that was definitely random." He says before turning to Celestia who just chuckled and shook her head.

"That is Discord for you, a random and chaotic being that just does what he likes, comes unannounced and loves to play harmless pranks from time to time. But at the end of the day, he is still a kind and good guy you can always count on. He even saved Equestria once." Celestia explains. 

"Wait really?" Blueblood looked at her in surprise. 

"Yes, I will tell you about it some other day. For now what do you say we start our lessons?" She says with some excitement as she levitates a book and starts to skim through its pages before stopping on one. "Ah here is a useful one, I believe it could help you escape if you are ever encountered by a difficult situation in the future. The 'Teleportation Spell.'" She explains as she goes toward him and shows him the pages. 

"Now Blueblood listen closely, in order for you to perform this spell the first thing you need to do is clear your mind and have a mental image of your entire body, try your hardest to not leave anything out." 

Meanwhile in the realms of souls 

The Discord ball bounced into existence as Death picks it up and start to play with it. 

"Discord!" She throws it and the lord of chaos reappeared shaking his head from the dizziness. "Did you miss me?" Death asks poking his stomach "Admit it, you missed me." 

The lord of Chaos just chuckled as he looks at her "D, I see you are still as creepily happy as ever." He tells her while being a bit uncomfortable. 

"Aw, are you still weirded out that I'm like that pinkie pie character you told me about despite my job description?" She tells him while prancing around him in the middle of the air. 

"Yes, and it doesn't help that now you decided to take the shape of her as well." Discord comments making her stop.

"Would you have preferred my other form?" She asks him with a smirk before growing until she is the size of Canterlot mountain and has a black dress ending in fog and a very big hat made of thorns. 

IS THIS BETTER?! Her booming voice was enough to make everything shake violently. 

"Aw! Ok, ok! I take it back! Now change into the other form!" 

She goes back to looking alike Pinkie "I knew it." She says with a smirk as she pulls an oz from her mane and used it to draw in the dirt floor the two were.

Clearing his ear Discord decided to follow along. "I meet with Blueblood today." 

"The prince? Oh, he is a great kisser!" She tells with a giggle before looking at him "So I imagine that he delivered my message?" 

"Yes." Discord nods as he floats to look at her face to face. "So you finally want some chaos in your life, eh Death? I knew you would eventually get bored of all that partying of yours." 

"Ah? Nah, I'm living the dream Discord! And I love it! I just need your help with a small project I gave the green light to." She tells not looking at him as he finishes with the drawing. 

"Some old friends want to go for a visit in Equestria." She explains pointing at the drawings on the ground making Discord raise an eyebrow in intrigue "Them?" 

"Yup, but you know the drill. I can move souls, but can't give them solid bodies like you can, so what do you say Discord? For old times sake, would you help me give them a solid body for a bit?" She asks him with hopeful eyes.

Discord thinks it over before responding "Well the idea of them walking around town certainly sounds like it could be very chaotic, can we invite more ponies for the party?" He asks with an evil grin.

"Nooooo!" D tells him still in her cheerful matter. 

He sigh and shake his head "Such a waste, fine I will help, but after that, we are even." 

"Yay!!" Death tells as she lifts her oz and from it, a white light starts to shine as three souls go and merge with the drawings on the floor. 

He then thinks of something "And now you will owe Blueblood a favor." 

"Oh I don't mind owing him a favor." Death tells while continuing her incantation "He is not that kind of naughty as you are." She tells with a giggle making Discord flinch. 

"Honestly Death, sometimes even I don't know what is passing through that head of yours, and that is saying something." Discord mentions as he grabs her oz and lends some of his power to her. 

The eyes on the three drawings open as they start to rise from the ground. 

Death blocking the view of the three figures as she looks behind and smiles "Foreshadowing!"
> A Moment Of Peace (BF)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the end of the day approached, Prince Blueblood gasped and tried to gather his breath before attempting the teleportation spell one more time. "Ok…okay I'm ready." 

"Oh no, you are not!" Celestia scolded the stallion as she walked to him, the ring around the two looking like a war zone after their training. Ever since they started, the prince had put all of his effort into trying to master the teleportation spell, having success in taking and moving small objects around him with a radius of almost 30 miles. Unfortunately, when it came time to try it on himself, the magic kept short-circuiting and dispelling with a massive force before the spell could even begin, resulting in the prince being hit and tossed into the air as if a hot air balloon exploded in his face. Nevertheless, the prince persevered and continued trying, much to the displeasure of his aunt, whose worries kept growing with each failed attempt. "Blueblood, I told you, advanced spells have a higher risk of drawbacks, you can't force these things!" 

"But auntie! I’ve almost mastered it!" Blueblood complained as Celestia put a wing on top of him.

“And you will in due time dear, you’re already making a lot of progress, and you can take solace in knowing that you managed to understand how to teleport objects without any problem." She faced him with a caring smile. "There is no shame in failing from time to time.  That is why we are here, after all. Teleporting an object and teleporting a living being, especially yourself, are leagues apart when it comes to difficulty, so it is normal that you will need more time.” 

She let him go and stood back. "Do not push yourself too hard, that never helps. Everything must come at the right time. Even Twilight needed years of practice before perfecting this spell." Celestia explained as she put everything back in order.

The prince just sighed in defeat at her words, wanting to argue back and try to cast the spell once more… and yet, he knew it was pointless at this point. His stamina was almost gone, and he didn't think that there was much magic left for him to spare. 

Noticing his expression, Celestia brought his head up. "Let's stop for today. Tomorrow, we can continue." 

That surprised him. "But auntie, your duties…" 

"...Are on hold, I told you. We are on alert now; royal court and my regular duties have been cut in half. Besides, I’d rather get behind on some paperwork than force perfection on you; we all learn at our own speed." She told him with a smile, the prince just nodding and picking up the books while Celestia put her regalia back on, both heading back to the entrance.  

As they walked, the prince opened the book on teleportation with some interest. "Even so, I'm still confused..." He told her before looking back at the book. "I keep doing everything the book tells me to do, so why isn't it working?"

"Perhaps it’s because you are looking at the problem all wrong," Luna replied, appearing at the entrance of the vault and taking the book away with her own magic. "Greetings, nephew."

"Aunt Luna!" Blueblood rushed to her and gave her a hug using his neck as she did the same. 

"What are you doing up so early, sister?" Celestia asked, approaching the two with a raised eyebrow as Luna ended the hug.  

"Early?" She reciprocated the same expression, before looking up and then looking at Celestia with a neutral expression. "Tia, it's almost time for you to lower your sun." Luna proclaimed, pointing up with a hoof.

"It is?" Celestia asked in shock as she looked up. "By my stars, it is! Did we really spend all day practicing magic?" Celestia couldn’t hold in her surprise.

Luna simply nodded. "You did, and left me to explain to the entire castle staff why you just vanished into thin air!" Luna exclaimed with a glare. "Honestly Tia, I understand that you want to start teaching magic to our nephew in secret. But if you’re going to do a disappearing act, you need to form a plan and give a reason why you were gone to our subjects." 

"I'm so sorry Lulu, I really thought that Blueblood and I would only be there for a couple of hours at most,” Celestia responded with some embarrassment. "I suppose… time flew by without us noticing."  

"Indeed it did." She then noticed the state Blueblood was in at the moment. The stallion’s mane was messy, he was practically covered in sweat, and was gasping occasionally while his horn was discharging sparks occasionally. 

"By my stars Tia, what were you teaching our nephew? Transmutation magic?" Luna questioned with a worried tone as she turned to her sister with a raised eyebrow.  

"It wasn't her fault, Aunt Luna," Blueblood explained. "Aunt Celly just wanted to teach me how to teleport myself, but I just couldn't do it at first.  So I kept trying and... well, it looks like I overdid it." 

"I see." Luna nodded before looking at Celestia with a neutral expression. "Let me guess, you wanted to stop him but he kept telling you that he could do it?" 

Celestia could only chuckle nervously with some heat on her cheeks, making Luna sigh and shake her head. "Tia, you seriously need to learn when to say 'no.'" Luna told her in disappointment before turning around and heading towards the castle. "And you were worried about me teaching him how to use a flame sword...” she added under her breath before looking back. “Now let's go, sister, it’s time for me to bring the night and then meet Cadence and Shining at the train station." 

Celestia nodded and closed the entrance of the vault before following, but before they walked too far, the prince rushed ahead of the two and got in their way. "Wait!" He told them before gasping for air from the sudden movement.

"Yes, nephew? What is it?" Luna wondered with a raised eyebrow. 

"Well, I was wondering… since you are here already, would you please show me how you move the sun and moon here instead? Please, just this one time?" He asked them while scratching one of his hooves and trying his best puppy eyes on them.

The royal sisters looked at him for a moment before they smiled and approached the prince. "I am sorry nephew, perhaps another time." Luna apologized.

"Aww, why not now?" Blueblood asked in sadness.

"Because our ritual of lowering and raising the day and night is something special and powerful enough, that it would blind some pony if they caught a glimpse of it unprepared," Celestia explained. "That is why we have a special celebration for our citizens to look at us perform it. It's not only a tradition, it's also the only moment in the year where our celestial bodies are far away enough from the planet so they can't hurt anyone." 

"Wow, it’s really that powerful?" Blueblood asked in shock at the revelation as Celestia nodded in confirmation. 

"For a brief second, our bodies shine with the radiance of the stars we move, nephew. We even have to cast powerful shield spells on our rooms so that we don't accidentally obliterate them each time we end and start a day. A spell similar to the one we cast on Twilight when we had no choice but to relinquish our magic to her once." Luna continued. "I hope that this helps you understand why we can't just show you our daily ritual, much less when you are clearly this tired." 

"Yeah, I get it now," He droned dully. 

"Do not fret nephew, like my sister says, there is a day in the year where you can watch us perform our duties without any problem. When that day comes, you will have a front seat." Luna told him as she charged her horn.  The prince was startled for a second when he saw his body being surrounded by magic. "For now though, why don't you go take a quick shower and then meet us at castle entrance? You wouldn't like to give your cousin a sweaty and smelly goodbye hug, would you?" Luna gave him a smirk, making the prince blush and look away with a smile. 

"Yeah, that just sounds unpleasant for both sides..." Blueblood agreed as he is levitated back down. "Well, in that case, I will see you soon!" He waved goodbye to the two before being teleported back into his room, scaring Clean Breeze and Silver Treat, who were in the middle of a makeout session before his appearance. 

"Your Highness!"  Clean cleared her throat and stepped away from Silver before grabbing a feather duster and starting to work on a coffee table. "I-I-I was just, you know, cleaning the room a little."

"Uh, y-yeah, me too." Silver added as he started to make the bed, both doing their jobs at a rather fast pace.  

The prince at first could only blink in surprise at the image before relaxing and chuckling. "Guys, guys, please..." He went to them and made them stop what they were doing, bringing them to the center of the room. "It’s okay, but you could have chosen a more secluded place to kiss. That being said, I will not get mad at some pony for an expression of true love." 

Both maid and butler only kept staring at the ground, their faces red from embarrassment. The prince just shook his head and rolled his eyes at that. "I will pretend nothing happened, okay?" 

"Celestia bless you, your highness;" Clean immediately bowed in appreciation. 

"Don't mention it.  Now go on, you lovebirds, before you get in real trouble with the head butler," He warned them with a smile as they nodded and trotted to his door. "Oh, and you better save me a piece of cake from your wedding, you hear me?" He joked as they left, suddenly freezing both ponies in place.  

Silver was the first to recover and look back at him with an even redder face, but still managed to chuckle. "I'm not so sure my alpha mare is ready to add a new member to the herd, your highness," He declared with a chuckle as they both left.

"Herd?" The prince was left confused by that as he continued to ponder those words. "What’s a herd?" Blueblood asked mostly to himself as he closed the door and headed to his bathroom.

At Canterlot Train Station

"Please take care on your trip," Luna told her niece while hugging her. 

"I will, Aunt Luna," Cadence responded with a smile. 

"Are you sure it's best for you to leave? The list Fort gave us is a bit big... perhaps it will be better if you remain here until we can cross some of them off it." Celestia offer Shining, who was playing with Flurry, before he looked back at her. 

"It’s okay, princess; it's not like we’re going back to the Crystal Empire or anything. We are simply going to pay a visit to my sister for a couple of days," Shining explained as Luna ended the hug, and then moved over to Shining Armor, bringing him into a hug while at the same time placing Flurry on her mother's back. 

The whole thing caught Shining off-guard but nevertheless, he accepted the hug. Celestia noticed how Luna cast a charm spell on him. With a raised eyebrow, Celestia looked at her sister, who simply smiled and made a quick mental link. 

Just in case.

Celestia rolled her eyes while Cadence continued. "Yeah, we will not be gone for too long, we will simply ask Twilight to look into you-know-what..." She subtlety gestured towards Blueblood. The princess, understanding the implication, nodded. "... and then we will return. Plus, she invited Flurry and me to see one of her friends’ magic acts. I think her name was Trixie. According to Twilight, her show is spectacular." She looked at the two of them with a smile. 

"She is right. I myself have seen one or two of her shows before, and I can guarantee you that she is quite entertaining to watch." 

"That is great to know," Cadence comment and they shared a quick hug. 

After saying their goodbyes to the princesses, Cadence moved towards Blueblood with a smile.

"Well cousin, I hope things go better there than they did here," Blueblood mentioned with some guilt knowing that he more or less threw a wrench into her original plan when they arrived.

Cadence only rolled her eyes at that. "Blueblood, just shut up and come here," She ordered him, and open her arms for a hug.

Accepting her invitation, he went to complete the gesture. "Take care, Cadence." 

"You too, Bluey," She chirped with a chuckle as they ended the hug. "And please, don't blame yourself for what happened.  Yes, I'm sad that one of my cousins is gone…” She looked away in sadness before smiling again.  “... but I'm glad that I had the chance to meet a new one. One that I hope to get to know better, once we resolve all this mess." She lifted his head with a caring smile, Flurry also hugging him and nuzzling his cheek. 

"Nothing would make me happier, Caddy," Blueblood commented, touched by her words as they parted. 

"All aboard," The train conductor called out, he himself on the verge of tears while looking at the family.

"Well, guess that’s our cue. We should be going now," Shining stated, picking up Flurry and boarding the train.

"We’ll see you all soon!" Cadence joined her family and waved goodbye before the door closed and the train began to churn and move to the end of the station.  

The royal family waved goodbye until it trundled out of sight. 

"And they there go..." Celestia mentioned with a sigh. 

"Don't worry sister, I cast enough charms for them to easily walk through a war zone unharmed," Luna mentioned with confidence. 

"Thank you, Lulu, that actually helps," She then looked up at the stars in wonder. "I just hope we can solve this mess quickly. All this talk about groups threatening to harm my family is really putting me on edge and I just want it to end." 

"We will solve it very soon auntie, I'm sure of it," Blueblood reassured her with a smile, helping to calm her nerves.

"Thank you, nephew." At that moment, the three of their stomachs decided to grumble in unison, startling them and putting some heat on their cheeks. 

"W-W-Well, since we’re all here now, what do you say about going out for some dinner?" Celestia inquired, being the first one to recover.  

"I could go for something," Blueblood replied with a smile. 

"Oh! Rarity once recommended me a very good and recently opened restaurant near here. The food can be a bit spicy, but she told me that it’s actually pretty good, not to mention actual regular food instead of those bunny bite that a lot of restaurants insist, 'it’s a real plate.'" Luna explained, making air quotes. 

"Sounds good to me, I always enjoy trying something new.”  Celestia then turned to Blueblood. “What do you say, nephew? Would you like to try out that restaurant?" 

"Sure, sounds exciting!" The prince exclaims with a smile as the three royals walked back to the city with their soldiers waiting at the entrance, including Amber and Stellar, before heading to that new restaurant. As they walked, the prince remembered what Silver Treat told him and he looked back at Celestia. "Auntie, can I ask you something?" 

"Sure Blueblood, what is it?" 

"What’s a herd?" The prince asked innocently, but the moment he did, the princesses and his two personal guards stopped in their tracks and had a thousand mile stare. 

"Auntie?" The prince poked her side, worried as to why she suddenly froze. 

Little did they know that a familiar unicorn mare with light pink fur and a red mane also took notice of his question. She was casually drinking some tea at a nearby coffee shop. 

My sweet prince charming hasn't even had 'the talk'? She thought in surprise before glaring for a second at Celestia. Princess Celestia, how could you?! Depriving him of such a wonderful and magical experience...  She suddenly smiled and licked her lips as she looked back at the prince. Don't you know how vulnerable that leaves him for predators? 

"Uh, E-e-excuse me, miss Lips?" The voice of a stallion caught her attention, and when she turned, on her left, the mare found a teenager earth pony stallion probably no older than 15 years old, with blue fur, a basketball cutie mark, a spiky green mane and tail, and a sports jacket, holding a single red rose in his right hoof and a copy of one of her books in his left. He was shaking like a leaf and sweating bullets while trying to form a sentence. 

Smiling at the display, Scarlet turned around and waited patiently for the stallion to collect his thoughts. Said stallion had just mustered up the strength to speak up when she raised her hoof. 

"Stop." Standing up, Scarlet took a step toward the poor pony, making him flinch and back away. "I'm so sorry honey, but it would never work, you are not mature enough for me." She apologized to him with a small smile and noticed how the poor stallion’s ego deflated in front of her, the pony looking down and appearing to be on the verge of tears.   

"Oh, don't be so sad.  You showed bravery just by the approach with this flower." She mentioned, stroking his ego as she took the rose.  The stallion looked at her in shock as she glanced at him with slightly closed eyes.  "So to show my appreciation for such bold fan, I will give you a hell of a consolation prize." She put the rose in her mane and very slowly approached his ear before whispering things to him so intense, the stallion’s face was almost starting to shine for how red it was becoming.  

Once done, Scarlet gave his cheek a small kiss and took his book and a quill from her purse, before sighing, using her lipstick as ink. "You have an alpha mare, sweet cheeks?" She asked the stallion, who slowly shook his head no, still pretty shocked with what was happening. 

"Oh, we can't have that, can't we?" She faked surprise before using her magic to turn him around and give him the book back. "See that nice mare at the counter?" She pointed at the bartender. "Go there and tell her exactly what I told you."  

The stallion slowly nodded as he walked over to the bar, mostly reacting instead of thinking. Scarlet chuckled at the display.

Oh, sometimes it’s just that easy, She thought as she shook her head and paid for her drink, before leaving the establishment. 

And now, it’s time for mommy to hunt her prince... She mused with a predatory smile, walking in the direction the royal family went with a sway of her hips.
> The Royal 'Talk' (RB and AP)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As Princess Celestia kept playing with her food, she took the occasional glance at her nephew who kept looking between both her, and her little sister whilst eagerly waiting in anticipation for the ‘Royal Talk’. Luna, in a fit of sheer panic, had promised him such, once they had arrived to the establishment.

"Well?" The prince asked the two expectantly "Can you tell me now?" 

"Nephew." Princess Luna fiddled with the food on her plate and tried in vain to come up with the right words. "You need to understand, what you are asking us... It's not something so simple, there is a lot to take in, and a lot of history to cover. Didn't you study any of this while you were in Ponyville?" 

The prince looked at his aunt with a neutral expression. "Aunty Luna, we were kids." 

"Right" Luna nodded in understanding. "Well you see the subject of a herd is something quite big and beautiful…that my sister is better suited to explain to you!" Luna quickly explains, passing the responsibility and his attention to Celestia, who’s eyes widen in terror before glaring the power of the sun at her sister. "It’s all yours Tia." 

"Thank you, Luna!" Celestia replies with a cold voice as she magiced up a temporary mental link with her sister. Coward

The princess of the sun then turned her attention to her nephew and cleared her throat. “Well Blueblood, you see, a herd is the name we use to describe a romantic relationship with a group of ponies. Due to our unbalanced birth ratio, often times it involves a single stallion and múltiple mares.” She goes into her teacher mode as she pointed to a group of three mares surrounding a  single stallion on the far corner of the restaurant, all of which were laughing and chatting. "That, is a perfect example." 

The prince turned around to look at them as Celestia continued her lecture "To start a herd, first the stallion courts a single mare, who’ll be known as the Alpha Mare. You can always recognize an Alpha Mare by the pony that stays to the right side of the stallion." The princess explained as Blueblood noticed how the mare on the right of the stallion was the closest to him and was leaning her head against his neck.  

"Leaning against the neck of a stallion also proves that she is the alpha; it means that she’s willing to protect him with her life, no matter who she’s faced against. Being an alpha mare is considered a great honor when it comes to the inner circles of a herd." Luna continued as the prince turned to look at her. "To be an alpha mare, is to be an equal with your stallion when it comes time to expand the herd or when discussing decisions that effect the herd." She pointed a hoof  to another group of ponies except this one looked like they were interviewing a mare, with her head kept low and another mare keeping a critical eye on her.  

"A stallion in a herd is free to court other mares outside his herd, engage in dates and even going so far as to kiss the candidate for the herd, excluding the act of mating or any sort of foreplay however…" 

Blueblood remembered the incident in the morning at the mention of that. So that’s what they were doing...  

"…but when the moment of truth arrives, the decision must be accepted by both the alpha mare and her stallion." Luna explains as the lead mare of the group smile and nodded. The mare that was being interviewed raised her head and cheered for joy, as both mares hugged and the entire restaurant cheered from the outcome, making the princesses smile. 

"That mare just got accepted into the herd, and now she can truly join in their love, and have the satisfaction of belonging to the group". Celestia commented with a caring smile before looking at her nephew. "Do you understand now Blueblood?A herd is nothing unusual it’s just a part of life here in Equestria"  She wondered with a raised eyebrow. 

"I think I understand, but what happens if a mare wishes to leave a herd?" 

"The group would usually give her a goodbye party, to let her know that she’ll always be appreciated and loved as a friend. They would also sometimes give her some bits as a farewell gift, but if the alpha mare is the one that goes, then the herd is dissolved, and the entire group has a waiting period of six months before reforming in honor of the alpha. In that time, the parties involved can join other herds if they please, or the stallion would choose a new alpha from the previously selected mares." Luna explains. "It's a bittersweet thing to happen, but not uncommon. 
Like herds with the same sex, which are rare when it comes to males herds due to the birth ratio, or a polyandry herd, which are the ones that had more than one stallion in it. Please don't ask us about how the alpha mares work there, even I get confused at times trying to unravel it." Luna begged lifting her hoof before the prince had the chance to ask.  

"Ok, so in total there are three types of herds?" The prince wondered as he counted them out loud. "A normal herd of one stallion various mares, a homosexual herd which are all stallions or all mares, and a polyandrous herd which are like a regular one but with more than one stallion." He counts and his aunts nod in agreement.  

"And of course there’s also the simple relationships."  Celestia added.

"The simple relationships?" The prince raised an eyebrow at that comment . 

"Not all ponies want or like to be in big groups nephew. So they oftentimes settle with an agreement of faithfulness to their partner and remain as a single couple." Luna answered for her sisters. "Like the Twilight Sparkle family for example." She gives him a reference, "Night Light and Twilight Velvet could have easily picked another mare, to form a group and start their herd, but their love for eachother was so great, that they decided to stay true to only one another." 

"You’ve also met another couple like that Blueblood, do you recall the owners of sugar cube corner?" Celestia inquired. 

"Oh yeah, nice couple, their kids were adorable too." Blueblood remembered their meeting with a smile. "Although Pumpkin really liked to put my hoof in her mouth for some reason." The prince chuckled at the memory, something his aunt soon shared.  

"Well, they’re a perfect example of a simple couple too. And nowadays it's concept as common as forming a herd afterall, love is free, and it can and does take many forms in our world. So no matter the end result, Equestria will always accept any and all types of relationships on their lands." Celestia proclaimed in pride making the prince smile.  "Be  herds, simple or even interspecies, which is for example, a pony and a griffin". 

That’s so beautiful, there’s no such thing as discrimination or intolerance here! You can truly be whoever you want to be…well perhaps being a gay male, which  could be a bit hard…but that is more because of the birth ratio problem, rather than that of hatred. But overall this world seems really nice and tolerant! 

"And that pretty much covers it, did you have any other question Blueblood?" Celestia wondered aloud as she looked at him.  

"I don’t auntie, thank you explaining."  The prince shook his head, making the sisters smile and internally sign in satisfaction, for not having to tell him the in-depth the 'birds and the bees' talk. Now more relaxed, they picked up their glasses and started to drink in peace.  

"So…have you ever been in  a herd or a relationship before?" Once more the prince asked innocently and just like that, their peace was once again shattered as they spat out their drinks and almost choked in the process.  

"N-Nephew! T-that’s…kind of personal" Luna exclaimed in alarm and with an extreme blush as she coughed and tried to recover from the shock.

"Ah, come on, tell me! Do I have two uncles I’ve yet to meet? Do I have more aunties too? Would I meet them all on the next holiday?" The prince kept adding more questions to the princesses which only served to further increase their discomfort until Celestia came up with an idea, and smirked as she turned to her beloved sister.  

"Well Blueblood, I'm afraid that’s another important subject that your aunt Luna is much more qualified to talk about." She offered with a smile as she placed her wing behind Luna’s back.  

"Me?!" Luna immediately turned to her sister in shock as Celestia just lightly pushed her forward.  

"Don't be so modest Lulu, go ahead. Explain to him how our situation as royals work." She coached with a caring smile. Luna slowly glared as she saw behind her sister disguise, and could clearly distinguish how she was mocking her.  

"You really know how to hold a grudge, don't you sister?" Luna mentally scowled before turning to face her nephew and sigh in sadness.

"Unfortunately for us royals, the path for romance and companionship is far more complicated and often times sad". The princess’s mood dropped as she explained. 

"What?" Blueblood looked at both, confused and shocked at that revelation.  

"It all started with an old law made during the ruling of Princess Platinum. During that time Equestria was facing all sort of mighty foes who would stop at nothing to achieve their goal to conquer us, including harming our loved ones. So to prevent this, any ruler of Equestria would be forbidden to seek a partner or a herd and instead would be assign something called 'a royal concubine group.'" 

"Ah, a concubine is…" Celestia started explaining but Blueblood stopped her by raising a hoof. 

"Don't worry Aunty I know what a concubine is, but that sounds horrible!" He exclaimed in shock, Luna nodded solemnly . 

"It is. It was cold, methodic and soulless. Yet it delivered its two objectives; keeping our enemies guessing and ultimately dropping the idea of seeking out our loved ones…and preserved through our bloodline." Luna mumbled with a small blush. "As well as laying a trap in case of changeling infiltration" She winks "Giving them such an enticing opportunity to spy put them right on the frog of our hooves, but that is a story for another time"   

"By rotating the partners and even placing them in other herds. Our offspring could be saved in case of war. And for my sister and I, offered us a chance to hide as another mares if the worse came to happen, with a solid backstory to present. Luckily for us, we’ve never been forced to execute such plan." Celestia continued. "And rest assured, the moment Equestria found itself in peace and we were in power, we worked really hard in altering that old law." 

"Alter it? Why not destroy it?" Blueblood pondered with a raised eyebrow.  

"As soulless as it was, it was and still has some merit to it, and more important. Keeping those power hungry politician and nobles in their places." Luna rolled her eyes and chuckled at the memory of past love letters. "We changed the part of the government assigning us the concubines and instead; we ourselves are free to choose whoever we please."  

"We also made a rule/condition that we can't take a mare or stallion from an already existing relationship, be a herd or a simple couple." Celestia continued. 

"Mare or stallion?" The prince was confused for a second until he saw both of his aunts smiling with some embarrassment "Oh! I see" He smiled and chuckled. "You were not kidding when you told me that you love all of our subjects, weren’t you?" 

"Nope." Both sister replied with pride.   

"And finally, and this one is something we are particularly proud to add into that old law, 'If a prince or princess address his or her concubine as an alpha mare. That concubine will became a royal and obtain the same power on royalty as their partner, and the other concubines became the royal consorts.' But only after three years has passed, and the concubine has received royal training, education and examination from the guardians or parents of the prince or princess" Luna concluded. 

"Ah, I get it, like our own version of a herd then?" Blueblood mentioned with a smile.  

"Precisely. We might not be able to engage in a traditional relationship, but rest assure. Obtaining it is not out of our grasp." Luna responded. 

"But that means that Shining Armor started as…" 

"…A concubine? Technically speaking yes that was the correct term to describe him." Celestia nodded. "Yet it was a title that was short lived. Cadence and him kept their relationship a secret and were very careful when meeting up until their wedding, but it was clear as day that he was almost immediately her fiance. Shining was the love of her life and a pony that earned our respect for it, so when they came out of the shadows, we skipped some of his lessons on royalty behaviour since his time as captain covered most of the subject" 

"Ah so the education training can be skip?" The prince ask with a raise eyebrow 

"Only if we say so, and inspect his education levels" Luna responded with Celestia nodding in agreement 

"Anyway, returning to us, even when we’ve had company in our past, neither Luna or I have found that special pony for us. We simply love all of our subjects too much. Those encounters,  have been more of need instead of desire. Like an itch that only gets worse if not scratched, that’s why we’ve had to ask other races to help us with our 'itch'. We simply can't stop looking at our subjects as anything other than…well our subjects. Ponies that entrust their life and safety to us and we are more than willing to provide it." The princess finished with a sigh. 

"Cadence has the same problem too, perhaps even more with her being the princess of love." Luna continued. "That’s why Shining is someone that surprised us. So far he has been the only pony thats managed to break free of the 'subject zone,' he was the only one that made her look at him as something else, something closer and more intimate. And we weren't fools, we knew our niece would never pick a jerk as a partner, so when it came time to tell us, we welcomed Shining Armor with open hooves." Luna concluded with a smile.  

"Wow." That’s the only thing the prince could say to that revelation "And that means that if they wished, they could start a herd now?" 

The royal sister simply shrugged. "Technically speaking they could, with Shining Armor becoming the 'alpha male' but again, getting out of the subject zone is something almost impossible to achieve. So it's very unlikely; besides I think they prefer to remain as a single couple if you ask me. And I know what you were about to say Blueblood and no, so far in all of our life, neither Luna or I have found that pony that’s made us look at him or her the same way Cadence looks at Shining Armor." Celestia responded in pity.  

"Aw, but that’s so sad, are you really telling me that you’ve never once felt that kind of love?"

Luna started to chuckle and brought her hoof to her muzzle. "Oh I wouldn't say never, Tia used to had such a big crush for our magic teacher when we were younger." 

"Lulu!" Celestia turned to her with a blush. 

"Oh don't try to deny it, Tia, you always drew his face and put a heart around it in your notebook each time we had lessons together with him." 

Celestia smirked and crossed her front hooves. "That’s rich coming from the mare that kisses a signed poster of Flash Magnus each day before going to bed." 

Luna’s eyes immediately widened and with a blush glared at her sister. "That poster was a gift from you Tia."  

"Which I gave you, so you could stop spying on the poor stallion during his sparring sessions." She argued back with a roll of her eyes. "Honestly Lulu, I was starting to fear you would follow him into the showers." 

"Oh like you were so innocent back there 'I just thought I dropped my pen under your desk Mr. Starswirl'." Luna mocked her, doing a poor impersonation of her sister.

The prince just laughed at their argument until he found his plate was now empty "Well I think I’ll go fill my plate!" He informed them and prepared to leave, until Luna stopped him. 

"Nephew, before you go there is one more thing we need to tell you. This might sound cold and unfair but the rules of royal partners includes you too. Maybe even stronger since you’re our only direct descendant which means, that other rulers could potentially demand that you marry their offspring as an offering of peace and friendly relationships." 

"Which I would do all in my power to prevent." Celestia added angerly " I will not whore my family off for a deal, not even if it guarantees peace for Equestria." She said to him with complete determination, before looking to him in worry. "Yet, its not an impossible outcome, unfortunately." 

"And that is why we need to tell you. No, insist for you to remember. We will not oppose the idea of you seeking romantic partners, we even encourage it, but we ask you to please, if it arises, to be careful and stay alert. A lot of noble mares would love the chance to be a princess and take advantage of you and unfortunately… Celestia and I  just can’t just kill them all." Luna warned to him.

The Prince gulped and nervously chuckled at that "Y-you are joking, right?" 

Luna kept silent with a smile for a bit, before slowly nodding "Yeah…joking" She respond, averting her eyes from him before talking again "You can always break up with them and remove their status, however there are potential dangers that they could create, so be on high alert and remember to keep that in mind, ok nephew? " She finished by giving him a relaxed smile which only served to make things even more scary.   

"I-I will aunt Luna, I promise to be extremely careful if I ever find that special mare for me."  He nodded in determination. 

"Good, that’s calmed me down...now you’re free to go." Luna nodded to let him go as she and Celestia continued to talk.

As the prince advanced to the salad bar, he thought very carefully about everything he’d just heard.  

Things here are so different from that on earth...It’s almost ironic, that the ones that make the rules are also the ones that have the most difficulty in  finding true love? Will that happen to me? Aght! 

The prince held his head in pain with one of his hooves.

Thinking of all these rules is really making my head hurt. Maybe I should just stay away from the subject altogether, after all, it’s not like I find any mare attractive… I haven't gone full native yet 

The prince simply chuckled as he reached the bar and was about to grab some mashed potato when his hoof accidentally touched somepony else, reaching for the same.  

"Oh sorry I wasn't paying attention, please go…ahead?" The prince apologised as he turned around, until, he got a good look at the mare in front of him, which left him shocked and confused.

She looks just like…

"My, what a gentlestallion." The mare chirped with a small smile as she served some food onto her plate. "And what a surprise it is finding you here, your highness, the palace food starting to get too dull for your tastes?" She joked around with a smirk on her muzzle.  

"Ah, n-no. It’s nothing like that miss, my family and I were just experimenting with some new food, that’s all." The prince commented, now more relaxed, making the mare giggle for a bit.

"There’s nothing bad with experimenting a little from time to time, is there?" The mare replied with a wink as she offered her  hoof to the Prince, "And please your highness, just call me Scarlet."
> Traitors Season (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the days went by, the royal sisters didn't waste time as they embarked on a campaign to bring down the various groups who were plotting against the crown, using Fort Knox's list as a guide. The list was, to their displeasure, disturbing in its length and accuracy.

Said list included a wide scope of collaborators, from immature teenagers with enough bits and contacts to build a small army of mercenaries with delusions of power, conquest and carnal pleasure involving the princesses. All the way to expertly organized and founded cults with misguided ideologies of superiority on their respective race, bloodline or noble status. All of which, culminated in the belief that only they themselves were fit to rule the three tribes. They may speak of noble causes but if one judged these ponies by their past actions, even if they had not involved the crown, any creature would agree that they were nothing less than monstrous.

Needless to say, the whole ordeal left a deep wound on the princess's hearts. Both from the discovery of this new face of their beloved subjects and from the tense and hostile atmosphere the knowledge brought between the Royal family and the noble class. 

The once strong bond was now fragile and on the very edge of breaking. A solution was needed and soon. As the third week came to a close, it seemed like time was running out. A concept that had been stewing around within the prince's head. It kept on distracting him, even during a sparring session with Amber, leaving him unable to dodge a magic blast that barreled straight on into his chest, which threw him, bodily into the air a good distance before skidding across the ground until grinding to a halt.

While recovering his wits from the attack and shaking his head to clear the cobwebs, the prince turned to Amber, who approached and offered him a helping hoof. "Sir, if I could speak freely, that was just pathetic," She admitted in disappointment as the prince stood up with her help "Even a colt could have dodged that last attack. And I’ve seen what you can do in the past, so don't even try telling me that you are still learning." Amber chided in anger before her face turned into one of concern "You're clearly distracted, what is wrong your highness?"

"It's nothing," Blueblood mumbled as he turned his head in sorrow before starting to walk away until Amber blocked his way.

"I think we are past that, your highness." Amber pressed,

"I said it's nothing!" Blueblood lashed out and shoved her to the side before continuing on his way, only to take several steps before coming to a halt. Sighing "Sorry for lashing out Amber, it's just…ever since the trial of Fort, things have been going from bad to worse around here, Canterlot is in a crisis, and I can't help but feel responsible for it," He confesses, slowly turning to look at her.

Amber took some steps closer to him and extended her hoof into the air. "My prince you know that if something is bothering you, you can always…"

"…Aw, you are done training? Such a shame, I always love watching, you two perform such incredible shows" The voice of Scarlet interrupted Amber and when they turned to their right, they saw the mare in question approaching them with two towels being guided by Stellar, who was keeping an eye on the noble mare with a neutral expression.

"Oh hi, Scarlet" The humor of the prince soon turned cheerful as he went to meet her halfway and after accepting the towel, gave her a quick hug with his neck which she gladly accepts. "So glad to see you"

"So I heard from all my admiring fans" She proclaimed with pride, making the prince chuckle and roll his eyes.

"Always the modest one, I see" Blueblood quips as the two shared a laugh. "So what brings you here Scarlet? Not that I am complaining or anything but I thought you were still hard at work on your next book." The prince questioned with some intrigue.

"Indeed" Amber loudly proclaimed as she got in between the two and took the other towel. Stellar moving next to her, creating an improvised wall in between the noble mare and Blueblood. "What business do you have with the prince, Ms. Lips? I'm sure you are aware of the high alert the castle is currently under and how, because of that, meetings with nobles must be brief." Amber explained to Scarlet with an intense glare.

The whole situation though just succeeded in confusing the prince. "Amber what are you…?"

"…Standard protocol your highness," She quickly responded. "We apologise for our rude behavior but, after what happened last time, we rather take some extra precautions."

"Well, I had my fair share of experiences with wary mares against the idea of me chatting with their stallions, but this is the first time it has ever happened with a guard," Scarlet states to them with a smirk. "Don't you trust me?"

The prince could hear how both guards just growled like wolves at Scarlet, which just made things even more confusing for him.

Deciding to put an end to this debacle, Blueblood managed to squeeze through between the two and stand in the middle. "At ease you two. No need to be so hostile," The prince ordered his guards with a smile. "It's Scarlet we are talking about, remember? That mare has been and still is helping us ever since this tension with the nobles started. We owe her a lot for managing to keep peace on the streets despite all this recent chaos."

"Blueblood darling, it's ok," Scarlet calmed him by placing a hoof on his shoulder, Amber staring at the action like a hawk. "Old Amber here is just being a good soldier and I understand where she is coming from. With this whole situation between the royals and nobles, of course, all of your guards would be on edge when any visitors came to the castle,"

She explained before backing away. "And that is exactly the reason for my visit."

"It is?" Blueblood inquired, followed by Amber who repeated the same question and looked at her with a raised eyebrow. The guards took the opportunity to place themselves on either side of the prince.

Scarlet giggled and gave a nod "As I was about to tell you before being interrupted by your guard. I have been working hard on my next book when out of the blue, a sudden spark of inspiration for a scene came to me, that would be just perfect for you to use," She explains in overly dramatic excitement. "The incident with Fork has left you wary of all of the noble class, as well as leaving us unsure that we can truly trust the crown once again. We need a way to clear the air and reassure both parties that we are still friends and what is happening is only targeting those with wicked intentions wishing to hurt us both."

"Yeah!" The prince exclaims, starting to smile at her words. "That is exactly what we are doing."

"We need a big act of friendship and goodwill, for all to see!"

"Yeah!" The prince nodded and took a step further toward her.

"We need…a party." Scarlet finally announced.

"Yeah!…wait, what?" The prince cheered for a moment before looking back at her, confusion evident on his face only a moment later she pulls him into a one-legged hug and turning so they can both stare off into the horizon.

"Just picture it, Prince Blueblood; the noble and royal families mingle together in peace, letting all our questions out into the open to be answered at long last."

"Ah, actually that sounds reasonable." The prince pondered her words.

“With you and your family standing tall and proud in front of all, proclaiming to all of Canterlot that, despite the incident, our friendship is strong and powerful and you will not let those traitors ruin it.”

"Yes, that could work."

"And most importantly, taunting all who defy you. Sending them a message to remember: 'We are here, and we are not afraid.'" Scarlet whispered into the prince's ear.

"Scarlet that is perfect!" The prince let go of her and started to pace back and forth. "A party could be a good way to end all this built up tension. My aunties could finally have the moment to breathe that they really need, and we can calm everyponies nerves all at once." He exclaims in excitement as he starts to picture things progressing before stopping abruptly with a look of fear slowly beginning to dominate his expression.

"But a party can't just happen. We need to reserve the place, send out the invitations, and check the security…"

"One step ahead of you darling," Scarlet interrupts him in a sing-song voice before passing him a pamphlet that the prince takes in surprise.

"The memorial to the Pillars of Equestria?" The prince read it out loud before looking at her with a questioning look. "Doesn't this sound kind of depressing?"

Scarlet chuckled and shook her head. "No you silly colt, read it again." She replies with a playful smile. The prince was still lost until Amber approached him to clarify, "The Pillars of Equestria are not dead your highness."

"What?" Blueblood shifts his gaze to her in surprise. "Then why…"

"We will explain later, but the important thing is, this memorial was originally held to pay homage to heroes of the past…Though it doesn't make much sense now though, so its existence is somewhat superfluous.”

"Exactly!" Scarlet exclaimed.

"The memorial service has been canceled, but thanks to a certain novelist…" Scarlet added, making no effort on being subtle while referring to herself "…The venue where it usually takes place, and the catering for it, is still ready. It's basically a party waiting for a theme to arrive. Which means…?"

"…We can use it for the event without any problems!" Blueblood finishes for her and rushed to Scarlet, before enveloping her into a hug. The guards could not help but feel jealous at the action. "Scarlet you are a genius!"

"Oh I know, but don't let that stop you from saying it." She giggled out as she enjoyed the hug while taking a covert glance at the guards before smirking and nuzzling her face against the prince's neck, daring them to stop her.

The guard's eyes twitched in rage as they tried their best to maintain their composure, while the embrace lasted.

"Oh! I have to do so much now. I need to tell Aunt Celestia about this, and send the invitations, and see the place. I-I need to write some letters." He exclaimed frantically.

"Blueblood, calm down." Scarlet stopped him before he had a panic attack. "First of all, why don't you go talk to your aunt about the idea while I start working on the invitations?"

"What? Oh no! Scarlet, I couldn't possibly ask you to do…"

"I insist, trust me when I say that it is better this way. The nobles are more likely to hear me out as opposed to the princesses at the moment, given the current tensions." Scarlet explains.

The prince thought it over for a moment, "Maybe you are right, but you should go through the list with Aunt Luna present at the very least. So she can know exactly who is coming." The prince offered.

"I wouldn't have it any other way." Scarlet acquiesced with a smile.

"Well!" Amber and Stellar moved to get in between the two again. "If that is all, I'm sorry Miss Lips but your time is up, you should be going…now!" She ended the sentence with a glare toward Scarlet, Stellar’s own expression a near perfect match to her own.

"Oh, of course, I wouldn't want to overstay my welcome," She told the two guardponies before giving the prince a small bow. "Until next time your highness."

"Sure and sorry for all this. You know the high alert and all."

"Totally understandable." She assured him with a wave of her hoof before turning around and starting to walk away "Ta-ta darlings. Let's us hope our next meeting is more…friendly" She calls out to the guards.

"That will be awesome" the prince agreed as he waved her goodbye while some other guards escort her towards the exit. Once she had departed, Blueblood sighed and looked back at his friends.

"Ok, I will give you one chance to explain yourselves." The prince’s tone left no room for an argument while his expression settled into a neutral mask while looking at both "The moment Scarlet arrived, you both have been nothing but rude and cold toward her, and I want to know, why?"

"We were only doing our jobs, your highness," Amber quickly responded "Stellar and I both made a vow to protect you from any harm, no matter what form it takes."

"And you think that Scarlet Lips is one? She is a novelist for Equestria's sake!" Blueblood scolded them both, causing the guardsponies to flinch "Not only that, but she is also one of the few remaining noble ponies that have stuck by our side in our moment of need. She has defended us when other nobles thought that we were taking justice into our own hooves and were just taking power away without rhyme or reason. She acted as a true friend should. Does that not even deserve a little bit of trust?"

"We apologize, Prince Blueblood, but we simply cannot take the risk" Amber shook her head in determination.

"Oh, but it is worth running the risk of destroying our cordial relationships with the noble families beyond repair and watching as Canterlot crumbles down around our ears on its own?" Blueblood retorts

"We didn't intend…" Amber began to try and defend her actions but couldn't find a suitable counterargument for that statement and let her words die off. The prince just sighed releasing some of his anger with the air before shaking his head.

"Ladies I get it, with the Fork incident plus this open season on traitors, cults, and cultists, you are both understandably stressed out. Anyone would be,"

"What? No! Your highness I assure you Stellar and I…" The prince interrupts them by lifting his hoof for silence before Amber or Stellar could say anything else.

"Amber it's ok, There is no need to act tough around me. I get it, I'm also exhausted and hoping for some breathing room now more than ever, yet I can't rest yet, not now." He confided to them in shame as he looked back at the castle "It's my fault Canterlot it's cracking in the first place, so of course, it needs to be me who fixes it, as soon as possible. That is why I cannot stop," He looks back at them. "But that doesn't mean you two need to share the same burden."

The eyes of the guard pair widened at the implication. "Prince please don't!" Amber pleaded in alarm, her partner matching her expression. "Don't push us away; we are more than capable of serving you!"

"Relax I'm not dismissing you," The prince quickly reassured them, calming them both as they let out a breath they didn't know they were holding.

"But you clearly need a moment to clear your heads, so I will be giving you the rest of the day off."

"What?" Both look at him in astonishment while he only nodded.

"It's clear that I have been pushing you both too hard and too far, so by all means, take the rest of the day off to stretch your legs, go explore the city, or do whatever other things that would help you relax."

"But your highness! Your protection…"

"Amber, I will be fine," The prince slowly explained to her as he moves to the side. "The palace is almost completely locked down, there are guards everywhere, and I don't have any plans to leave for the rest of the day. Do not worry about me and for once, think about yourselves and your own mental health. That is an order."

Amber wanted to argue back, but a pat on the shoulder from Stellar and a subtle shake of the head from her friend made her understand that it was a lost cause. So, with no other options available, she had no choice but to salute and comply with her orders.

"As you wish your highness."

"Trust me, it's for best." The prince finishes with a smile.

The guards gave him a final small bow and left the palace.

Later that day in a park in Canterlot

While Stellar was calmly meditating on the ground, her partner was busy taking out her frustrations on a tree with a picture of Scarlet Lips pinned to it in an attempt to vent off some of her frustration.

"That mare is a menace Stellar! I just know she is!" Amber gasped out in anger and exhaustion before looking over to her partner, who nodded in agreement. "Who does she think she is? Marching into the palace and get all cozy and touchy-feely with our prince?! If she really wanted to help then why does she keep taunting us?"

Her partner just kept on nodding.

"She is plotting something Stellar, I don't know what, but I know she is."

Her partner just turned to look at her with a neutral expression

"What? You know what her game is?"

She nodded and then pointed to a couple sharing an ice-cream together. Amber eyes went wide in dawning horror "No, oh HELL no! She is not going to turn into the prince’s alpha concubine!" She yells in rage and hit the tree once more. "Tartarus itself will freeze over before I let that happen."

Stellar placed her hoof on Ambers' shoulder and looked at her in concern. Her friend, understanding the message, just breathed in and out until she finally relaxed. "Yeah I know, we promised the prince that we would relax," Amber then look at her friend. "But we still need to do something about it."

Stellar nodded and began to mull over her thoughts until an idea popped in her head. "Blind date" she eventually whispered out in a raspy and low voice.

"A blind date? You mean like set the prince up with a mare we choose?" Amber asked her with interest. Her friend replied with a simple nod.

"That…that actually is brilliant!" Amber exclaimed with a smile as she turned to her partner. "Our prince may be too naive and kind to realize what game he is unknowingly playing with Scarlet, but we can prevent him from making a mistake by setting him up with the right mare before that horse can make her move," Amber smiled in excitement before starting to think. "The mare we choose needs to be loyal, and friendly, but also strong and a natural leader. Somepony that matches his indomitable spirit, a pony like…Captain Spitfire!" Amber exclaims in excitement, "She would be perfect for him."

Stellar interrupted her by putting her hoofs on her chest and shaking her head, before making a projection of Fluttershy with her horn and pointing at it. "What? You think the element of kindness would be a better match for him?"

Stellar nodded with a smile before making more projections of the two playing with animals, then talking with children and finally the two dealing with nobles with a smile.

"Stellar don't get me wrong, Fluttershy is sweet and kind, and I understand what you are saying. Someone friendly, calm and nice would make the prince happy. But she is simply too soft, our prince is a natural leader. His alpha concubine then, of course, would need to match that aspect. Thus, Spitfire is the best choice."

Stellar kept shaking her head and continued to point at Fluttershy with even more vigor.

Amber just smirks and crosses her hooves. "Well it looks like we are at an impasse then, and there is only one way to solve this."

Stellar also smirked and nodded.

"Double-blind date; we invite the two mares to the party and see who the prince chooses, while also keeping Scarlet as far away from him as possible.

Stellar nods in agreement and they both bump hoofs. "May the best mare win."
> Plans At Sunset (BS, RB and FS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"No, that is possibly the worst idea I have ever heard!" Princess Celestia exclaimed in anger as she and Blueblood continued to walk throughout the hallways of the castle. Moments before that, the monarch of the day was finishing working on some paperwork in her room. Usually she would be doing so in the throne room, but due to the high alert and tension that Canterlot was facing, security was forced to be increased and protocols had to put in place. Even though she was partially relieved that day court was temporarily canceled, she couldn't help but feel slightly paranoid and angsty for all the arrests she and her sister had to enforce.  

So when her nephew appeared and asked for a moment of her time, the princess was more than happy to accept, taking full advantage of the opportunity to stretch her legs and get some fresh air, even more so when her day was coming to a close and the vast majority of her work was complete. As she continued listening to the idea Blueblood had to offer, she was more than willing to give it a try, right until he mentioned who had come up with it. 

"Aw! But auntie, don't you see? This is could be the opportunity we need. Our current relationship with our ponies could be described as tenuous at best right now. Ever since the castle went into lockdown, our citizens are starting to feel like they are being ignored and fear that at any moment the guards could take anyone away under the suspicion of being traitors without any evidence." Blueblood argued back.  

"I would never do such barbaric thing!" Celestia replied in shock. "I love all my little ponies and respect their rights, neither I or my sister would never take advantage of the law that way, perhaps bend it slightly and compensate and ask the proper permissions if needed, but only if it is absolutely necessary. We are not tyrants" 

"I know and I love you for that auntie but your subjects need to hear you say and prove that, you have to understand, all this thing that happens with Fort Knox has put all of us on edge. Now more than ever, we need a solution to help us all relax, and what better way to relax than with a party?" 

"A day spa, some therapy, meditation, a stroll in the park, some music, either playing or listening to your favorite composers, watching a nice movie…" The princess continued to list until the prince stopped her. 

"Ok! I get it!" Blueblood shouted at her in frustration. "There are others methods. But we could use this one that could serve on a grander scale, and let all the ponies know that we are still the same rulers they know and love."   

“Blueblood, it is not that simple, we can’t simply invite all the nobles here in the castle, smile, offer them some cake and ask them to like us once more.” Celestia tried to reason with him. “Besides we are on alert for traitors, how could it be wise to invite our citizens to a party when we just finish arresting all the members on Fort list?” 

“Because it will show all of Equestria that we are not afraid and it will take more than a piece of paper to destroy our bonds of friendship with the noble class. Furthermore, it will be a perfect opportunity to show them that we haven’t gone mad with power and we are still the same as ever.” The prince pushed his point home. “Also there is no need to worry about the invites; Scarlet insisted on taking care of them and guaranteed us the arrival of every pony we invite.” He mentions her with a smile, causing the princess left eye to twitch in barely contained anger. 

"Oh did she? My, My, what a good friend..." Celestia informed him with a practiced smile. 

By Faust’s sake Scarlet, I don't know what sort of brainwashing you put my sweet nephew under, but I swear if you ever touch one hair on his mane…

"Auntie?" The voice of the prince manages to snap the princess back to reality. 

"Yes Blueblood?" She simply asked pretending nothing happened.  

"I was asking if you are ok for us to at least give it a try? She agrees to review the guest list with aunt Luna, and we can double check the security to calm you down. At the end of the day though, we don't lose anything with at least trying right? Do they want an audience and a chance to speak their fears? So let's give them just that. Please!… I could wear the changeling necklace for a day and we can have a mommy and son day in exchange~" The prince offered in a sing-song voice while giving her his best puppy eyes. The combined effect of which made the princess do a double take at the expression while mulling over the idea.

A mom and son day in exchange?! The princess' heart starts to warm up as she could picture herself and Blueblood having a normal day as a family with her, pretending to be simple pegasus as a mom, and carrying an infant Blueblood on her back, an idea like that was just too good to let it pass. Shaking her head to clear any lingering stray thoughts, the monarch sighed in defeat and lay her head down. "Ok Blueblood, you win, we will give it a chance. I still have concerns, but you do raise a valiant point and if we play our cards right, it could help us put all this mess behind us."

"Yay!" The prince throws a hoof into the air in victory. 

"BUT!" The princess stops and raises her hoof into the air. "Only if you agree to my conditions for it." 

"Yeah, of course. Anything." Blueblood stops and nodded at her exclamation. 


Meanwhile at Twilight Castle 

As time continued to run at a snail’s pace, the royal siblings kept staring at a mare with gray fur, a simple green dress, and a purple straight mane and tail. Said mare continues looking at a probe with a liquid on it, showing no sign of emotion whatsoever. Ever since Shining Armor explained the situation to Twilight, both of them had been working non stop to find out what substance could possible make a pony sweat blood so clean and efficiently. Yet, no matter what they tried, all their tests and trials lead them on to another dead end. Even with their combined experience, knowledge in the royal guard and access to a wealth of knowledge on all sorts of subjects, neither of them were experts on the field they required.

Fortunately, with the findings they discovered, Twilight was able to find out that whatever it was. It was related to some sort of natural mineral. And she knew just the mare to ask when it came to minerals; Maud Pie, Pinkie Pie's older sister who not too long ago had graduated from Rock University.

The hopes of the princess rose when Maud agreed to take a look and keep their meeting a secret, yet they had started to wain after the second hour with the mare just staring at the tube without saying anything. 

"Well…?"  Twilight finally asked, unable to keep the suspense any longer. "Do you recognized it what is on it, Maud?" 

"I did recognize it immediately princess." Was Maud’s simple reply, turning to look at them, her expression never changing. "It's a mineral, that comes from a rock, a very therapeutic one" 

"Wait, did you say therapeutic?" Shining asked in shock as Maud simply nodded.  

"Anthracite Somnium Coal. Or as it more commonly known as; Dreamer rock." Maud explained as she pulled out a pitch black rock in the shape of a pillow from her pocket. "I have one too." She scrapped the edge of said rock and put the resulting dust in another empty tube before filling it with water and swirling it gently. The solution contained within changed color to be the same as the probe Twilight had shown her. "See?" 

The siblings nod once they notice the change. "And would you say that this type of rock could kill a pony?" Shining asked with interest.

Maud shook her head. "This rock is not too hard to find, any pharmacy sells them, and they are generally used as a sleep aid by ponies with insomnia. You simply scrape its edge and burn the powder. the smoke it produces has been noted to induce drowsiness in ponies."

"What about in big doses?" Twilight inquired, but once again Maud shook her head. "That will only put anyone in a real deep sleep. Perhaps capable of sleeping right in the middle of one of my sisters loudest parties." 

Both siblings laughed at the joke. 

"That wasn't a joke," Maud replied, making them stop. "You would need to powder the whole rock to do that, after that, no matter how much rocks you scrape the effect will be the same. Additionally, the effect would only last six hours, at most. This rock is pretty harmless." Maud finished and put the rock back on her pocket.

I don't get it. If the rock was so harmless how did it make Blueblood bleed to death? Shining Armor thought in worry. 

"If anything was lethal, it must have to be the other component." Maud suddenly interjected. 

"Other component?" The siblings exclaimed in shock. 

She simple nod and point to the probe once again. "The main component of this solution was the rock, which has been concentrated to achieve its maximum level of efficiency, but there was a second component, one I didn't recognize. So it wasn't one of a geological nature." She explains to them. 

"Let me see." Twilight takes the tube and picked a sample, that she then placed on the stage of a microscope. 

"Why didn't you tell us sooner?" Shining asked Maud while his sister was hard at work trying to discover the other elements contained within the sample.  

"I was trying to see if I recognized it. That is why I was staring for so long." Maud replied calmly. 

The prince sighed in defeat at her answer before looking at Twilight. "Anything Twily?" 

"I think so…but it’s hard to tell. It's very small and it is so little on it. I was forced to use a spell that illuminated the mineral elements just to see it." Twilight responded. "Maud, how did you manage to notice something so small?" 

"I didn't." She once again replied. "I just saw something else mix with it."  

Well, all things considered, this is a breakthrough. We still don't know how that kills Blueblood, but at least we know why he couldn't fight it. That dream rock must have kept him from waking up until the very end Shining thinks while crossing his frontal hoofs.  

"Sorry that I can't be of any more help." Maud apologies with the same neutral expression, "My major is in finding, identifying and categorizing new types of rocks, not in their chemical components and how they work."

"It’s ok Maud, you already did enough, we should be the one thanking you for help us find more about this mysterious substance," Twilight replied with a smile.  

She nods and starts to walk away before stopping and looking back at the two. "If I remember anything else, or find some pony that could help I will let you know. Goodbye Princess Twilight and Prince Shining." She gives them a small bow and then keeps walking, leaving the siblings alone.  

"Well, we at least now we know where to start." Shining comments with a sigh, and then headed to a desk and picked up a scroll and quill. "I better write the princesses about our progress." 

The princess nodded. "I will go look if I have any books about chemistry, and see if there something about Dreamer Rocks, and how they could be used as a weapon," Twilight replied, exiting the room as both siblings went back to work. 


Meanwhile at Upper Crust and Jet Set mansion 

While admiring the setting sun and enjoying a cold beverage, Scarlet smiled and leaned on the edge of her friend's balcony while a noble couple played some chess near her.  "Don't you love it when everything falls into place?" Scarlet inquired her friends as she admired the sunset. 

"I still don't get all of this is Scarlet." Upper replies, confused by Scarlet's scheme even as she beat her husband on another match. With the game finished she turned her attention to the other mare. "Why are you going this far for a shot with the prince? You already befriended him and got his trust, why don't you just make him yours already?" 

"Oh Crust, you poor naive mare." Scarlet shakes her head and looked back at them. "What kind of game will that be if I just do that?" She probes her with a smirk.  

"Game?" Jet looked back at her confused.  

"The thrill of the chase, the excitement in defeating rivals, the taste of victory after a grueling battle." She lists while slowly walking around them. "All those little things that would make my conquest all the sweeter." She paused for a moment to sigh in delight, looking at the distance with dreamy eyes.

Shaking her head, she looks back at the two. "Plus, a good love story has obstacles for the protagonist to overcome, and when I have the prince’s heart on my hoof, I will be able to write my best work yet. Oh, I can feel it, this upcoming book will be my magnum opus!" She proclaims in pride.  

"You know, Scarlet. If the three of us form a herd I could give you enough material to work in an even better book." Jet Set offers, approaching the mare.  

"You?" Scarlet look at him in surprise before chuckling. "Oh Jet Set, you make the funniest of jokes, a mare joining a herd of nobles? Cliché much?" She shakes her head before pointing at the castle. "Oh no darling, a mare rising from humble beginnings and ending with the unconditional love of a prince?" Now that is a book who title would be enough to give any mare goosebumps." She explained with a shiver.  

Jet look away in anger. "Yeah, sounds like a good title." He mumbles in anger. 

"Oh don't be like that Jet" Scarlet cooed while she tilted his head up with a hoof so she could see him. "Upper Crust has a glamorous and appetizing pair of flanks that would make any mare jealous." She casually comments, making both nobles blush hard.

"And if you really wish to try the herding game, then by all means, let’s take advantage of this party, I love playing matchmaker," She tells them in excitement as she shakes her flank.  "I know of several mares that have been checking you out Jet." She grins wolfishly and begins to giggle as she watches how his blush keeps increasing before turning to Upper Crust. "Would you like to know their names, honey? See which mares could be good enough for you? Know which one could make your names truly remembered?"

"Y-Yes?" Upper answers, unsure of what was happening.  

"Great!" Scarlet abruptly shifted away from the two and return to her usual cheerful self. "Then I will tell you AFTER we make our move"

"I still think you are overcomplicating things, Scarlet. Even if you wish to put obstacles for yourself, why do you want to earn the prince like this?" 

"Because it needs to be poetic. That prince has been my white whale ever since I lay eyes on him. First by being the unreachable prince that all mares yearn for while growing up, then by becoming the prideful brat who looks at everything as inferior, and needs to be trained. And now as this new kind and friendly teddy bear who is just perfect to be hugged." Scarlet start to drool at the memory. "The beast has become mellow and intelligent, now it only needs to be tamed." She finishes with a smirk as she looks back at her friends.  

"And once I have my leash on it, you two will take his status and position, and will be placed right beside the princesses. Just like we agree upon." 

"Yeah." Upper Crust smiled at the idea.  "Now we are talking."

"And what about the others?" Jet raises his point in intrigue. "Sharp Shot has been rather quiet ever since the princesses started to hunt for traitors, and other than all those interrogations the princesses disguise as 'tea parties' and force us to participate, I haven't heard or seem much of him." 

"Oh don't worry about that grumpy soldier. I already sent him a letter and he already told me that he will be there…and he is bringing a very important guest with him."  She informs them, her smile turning malevolent 

"Who?" The couple asked, now more than ever intrigued about this new development, as the sun finally set. "The only other mare who was present during all of our beloved prince’s childhood, and it’s possible the one to be responsible in turning him into the brat we once knew and used." 

Scarlet tells while admiring the rising moon. "Crossfire Tempo, the renowned owner of all of the best and most popular spas in Equestria…and Blueblood's official godmother." She announced, making the couple gasp at the revelation. 

"Rejoice, my friends, the day for us to have the spotlight is almost upon us. Our unity makes us untouchable, and with Skies as our ally, the prince soon will be ours. And all the benefits that would come with it." She picks a nearby glass and raised it into the air.  

"For a new and better future!"  

Crust smiled and pick another glass. "For royal statues!" She announces.  

"For a useful prince." Jet Set adds as well with a smirk.  

"Cheers!" They exclaimed and hit their cups in happiness.  

At that moment at Sugar Cube Corner  

Pinkie Pie was happily humming a tune while working restocking the fridge when a bolt of pain made her stop suddenly in both surprise and annoyance. Looking back at her flank she adopts an expression of concern.  

A pinch on my cutie mark? I have never had this Pinkie Sense before, but I know that is something bad, something mean, and that I need to stop it! She looks at Canterlot through a nearby window with concern.  And it coming from Canterlot.   

She hums as she works, even though unsure of what to expect or what would it be expecting her when she arrived.
> Clash Of The Party Planners (BS and RB)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With the upcoming party only days away, everyone in the castle was hard at work ensuring that everything would be ready for the event. Some would wonder about what was looking more and more like a second Grand Galloping Gala. Others were curious as to what this unexpected and brand new event would turn out to be a, and a third group was just about ready to burst from the excitement with the prospect of having fun and experience a new type of party. With a confirmed guest list twice as long as any other, this was going to be the largest party Canterlot has ever seen.

Such was the excitement of a certain pink pony who, by the request of Princess Celestia, became the co-party planner for this event alongside Scarlet. This was much to the noblemare's displeasure, who quickly learned that her partner was possibly the most stubborn mare she had ever met when it came time to make any decision for this social event 

Shaking in anger, Scarlet stopped talking with a pair of waiters to address her co-worker who just set off another of her dreadful confetti bombs, which she was unfortunately caught in the blast radius of. Taking a deep breath, Scarlet calmed herself down before she turned and approached the mare. "Pinkie darling, I was under the impression that I had already told you that confetti will not be needed for this type of party." She addressed her, holding a practiced smile.

"Ah come on Scarly, not even a little bit?" Pinkie pleaded, going so far as to use her puppy eyes. Yet even in the face of this onslaught, Scarlet remained neutral before sighing "Walk with me, dear."

Turning around she started to trot through the castle with Pinkie in hot pursuit. "Tell me, Miss Diane…"

"I keep telling you Scarly, just Pinkie is ok" Pinkie correct her.

"Such a waste for a refined name, but as you wish, tell me Miss Pie, with such a refined and well-studied knowledge on the subject of parties, I'm sure you can answer me this, what do you think is the purpose of a party?"

"To have fun, duh." She quickly answered, to which Scarlet just chuckled.

"Well, I'm sure that, that is a factor. And it's probably the case for the parties you are more familiar with planning Pinkie. Unfortunately, for nobles, a party such as this has a much deeper meaning."

"Really?" She asks in surprise while Scarlet nodded.

"It's quite true. A party is for us nobles is an intricate game of intrigue and maneuver; we bluff and flirt, we are seen and speak but more importantly, see and listen. Deals and secrets are struck and discovered all while the music plays, and everyone dances the night away." Scarlet paused upon seeing the confused expression on Pinkie Pie's face. "Let me rephrase that, in other words. Do you like to play hide and seek?"

"Yep."

"Do you like to play hoof-ball?"

"Yep."

"Well, you don't play hoof-ball when playing hide and seek, don't you?"

"Of course not silly that will give my hideout right…oh!" Pinkie stops what she understands what Scarlet was implying.

"Exactly! And that is what I need you to understand, it's nothing against your type of parties, I'm sure they are quite a delight to be around, and I would be more than happy to assist you with one of them, but this event, unfortunately, it's not that type of activity Pinkie."

"Aww" Pinkie sighed in disappointment as Scarlet patted her on the head "Don't be sad honey, I'm sure we can find a way for you to enjoy the party as much as we do, and look at the bright side, you are stepping out of your comfort zone and planning a new and different type of soiree. Isn't that in itself exciting? You could add 'high-class party planner' on your resume."

"Yeah, I guess."

"So do we have an understanding?"

"Yep, this is not my usual type of party" Pinkie replied.

"I am glad we had this conversation. Now, why don't you go and help the catering staff with the food, while I go see if the ice sculptures are…" Scarlet commented conversationally as she turned around, ready to leave the party mare only to stumble back a step in shock when she sees the pink mare in front of her with a giant smile again.

"But this is not your usual high-class type of party either, Scarly!" Pinkie exclaimed, as her co-worker busied herself by looking back and forth between her current position and where she had been but a moment ago in total confusion.

"Ah…how did you…you were…when did you…?"

Before she could say anything else, Pinkie brought her into a hug using one hoof. "Don't you remember what the princesses told us? This is not a high society party or a regular type of party. It's something called a Masquerade Ball, a new and daring type of party that Bluey invented himself, so commoners and nobles mix together in dance, games, and masks." She said while taking one of the masks off a table and putting it on before she dragging Scarlet into an improvised dance. "A party where we all equal and can have fun seeing the wonders of both classes," She tells her with a smile.

"Well yes but…ahem!" Scarlet pulled herself free from her companion's hooves and cleared her throat "As you say, it's to be a balance between both types of parties, we must be careful not to go too far in one way or another right?"

She points to a cadre of distinguished musicians entering the room "This event required the finest in entertainment and decor…"

"Without forgetting the games and snacks~" Pinkie countered, gesturing to a table being prepared with cakes, candies and all sort of sugary treats.

"Oh, most definitely not! This is a special event, not a birthday party" Scarlet growls out her temper building.

"It a party, not a snooze fest." Pinkie counters back. "Admit it Scarly, we have enough of your fancy stuff, let's start putting in the fun stuff!"

"We need, class."

"Games."

"Class!"

"Games!"

"Another heated argument, I see." The voice of Blueblood caught the attention of both mares before they quickly turned to see the prince fast approaching. "It's so lovely to see you both still have such passion for this project even when it's about to start."

"Blueblood darling, I'm so glad to see you." Scarlet went to give him a hug only for Pinkie to rush in and make it a group hug, much to her displeasure. 
It was something the pink mare often did, and it kept her from getting more close to the prince. At first, Scarlet thought that the pink menace was another potential rival in love but the more time she spent with Pinkie, the less sense she seemed to be making, much to her confusion and annoyance. It felt like somehow Pinkie was dragging her into a bizarre and confusing friend zone with her and the prince, and not even the kinky type. That was an idea that both frightened and angered Scarlet to no end. Yet she was determined not to let this set back keep her from her ultimate goal and professionalism.

After taking a deep breath to recover her cool, the noblemare soon noticed that, unlike other occasions, the prince wasn't being escorted by his two usual guards. "No guard's today honey? What is the occasion? Or did your escorts finally stop viewing me as a threat?" Scarlet inquired with a raised eyebrow.

"Nah, Amber told me that a special mission came up and both were needed elsewhere for the day, but don't worry. They didn't leave me defenseless either." he then cast his gaze upwards. The two mares followed his eyes to see a squadron of Pegasus guards hovering above him in a fairly discrete formation. 

‘Special mission?' Scarlet pondered before a smile starts to form. 'Did my provocations finally to take root and they decided to enter the courting game?' She began to chuckle at the implications. 'Oh, it will be so adorable to see them try.' The voice of the prince then snapped her back to reality

"But that is not what is important now" The prince mentioned while breaking the hug "It's so nice seeing you two getting along so well."

"Yep, Scarly and I have become the bestest of friends" Pinkie proclaimed for all to hear with a look of complete pride, making the prince chuckle and look at the noblemare.

"And you were saying that Pinkie would only annoy you," He remarked to her with a smirk

"I'm mare enough to admit when I'm wrong honey; I simply feared that we would have a repeat of the series of events from her first Grand Galloping Gala" Scarlet comments provoking an embarrassed blush from Pinkie who looks away nervously at the memory.

"Y-yeah, not one of my best moments, but in my defense, you were overselling the event just a bit." Pinkie defends herself.

"It is for the members of the highest class, dear. What were you expecting?" Scarlet comments.

The prince chuckled at the new argument. "Anyway, how has everything going?" He asks, casting his eyes around at the decorations "Is everything ready?"

"Almost ready" Pinkie bounced next to him "As you asked us, we got everything you wanted for it," Pinkie tells him, taking off the mask she was wearing. "I have to say Bluey, I've hosted a lot of parties before, but this Masquerade thing you told us about? It's definitely something I have never heard of before."

"That makes two of us." Scarlet ads, approaching the pair as well "Blueblood darling you have to tell us, what could possibly have given you such exotic ideas?"

"Will you believe me if I told you that it was a memory from my past life?" The prince asked them with a raised eyebrow. After a pregnant pause, Scarlet and Pinkie burst into laughter "Oh dear, Blueblood that was…oh what a hilarious joke!"

"Yeah, right?" The prince chuckled for a moment before clearing his throat. "In all seriousness, the idea came to me after thinking of the problem we are facing. The division of the classes that has put everyone on edge, sure all these arrests were what started this, but the crown itself and the division of classes is the real issue to be addressed. It was preventing us from speaking freely. So if we need to talk, we need to take those statues away."

He picked up Pinkie's discarded mask and began to examine its facade. "And that is where this comes into play, as I told you, other than some ornaments, and colors that everypony is free to add, all of these masks are, more or less the same for all of us, and that is what exactly what I want them to represent."

He turned the mask about and slipped the mask over his face "With this mask on I'm no longer the prince of Canterlot, you are no longer a noblemare, or you an element of harmony." He then removed it and placed it back on a nearby table. "We are what we are at our core, just three ponies having a nice chat."

He stops and looks at everyone hard at work "That is what this party is all about. Sure we have our lives and our status but we are also just normal ponies that wish to be heard and listened to, and that is exactly what will happen" He mentions in pride. "This is not only another type of party girls, but I also plan to transform this event into an annual celebration. One intended to erase present and future anguish my people might have, a very long party where their voices are heard and their happiness flourishes."

"So that is why you invited the common folk along with members of the peerage darling?" Scarlet asked in wonder.

The prince nodded without missing a beat "that, plus it will be a way for us to create a magical little world of wonders, no noble class, no common class, and no royal class. Just ponies having fun and seeing the best that all classes can offer." He started to laugh at the image on his head. "Oh we are so going to be redefine the word 'exotic' at this party" The prince tells the two mares as he looks at the jugglers ponies, some dragon flamethrowers, zebra fortune tellers, and other types of entertainers warming up their acts and even giving some free demonstrations to any passing butler or maid who was captivated by their performances.

"I must say, honey, I had my reservations when you insisted on adding this type of entertainments at first, but now I'm intrigued to see how it will play out when put into action," Scarlet states with a smile, looking at the group.

"I knew you would warm up to the idea" He mentions before starting to walk away "Well, I will leave you girls alone so you can finish your job in peace. I just wanted to check out how was everything going."

"There is nothing to worry Bluey, we got this." Pinkie answered before Scarlet could have a chance to say anything.

"Awesome! Now, where are those confetti bombs you requested me to order?" The prince asks mostly to himself as he started to look around some crates that were recently opened but not unpacked yet

Scarlet eye twitched once she heard that and was about to glare at Pinkie before being surprised and confused by the mares innocent smile, as she looks away and offers her a remote control with a single button on it, The image of confetti engraved on its surface. "Before you do anything think about this Scarly, you could either be mad at me or have a little fun~" She offers her as she points at the prince inspecting the crates.

Scarlet ponders the idea for a moment before smiling and presses the button, resulting in the prince getting startled by a loud bang and a face full of confetti. Looking back he sees both mares giggling at him, and he soon joins them as he clears his head "Oh you got me, Scarlet, you got me good you" He tells inbetween his own fits of laughter as he waves them goodbye.

After their laughing fit, Scarlet stopped and realized what she was doing, before looking at Pinkie in surprise who smirked at her "Well Scarly?"

"Oh all right, you win. We can have some confetti bombs here and there, but nothing too excessive, and I don't want any of that anywhere near the dance floor, you hear me!" Pinkie surprised her by giving her a hug "Already done, and ready."

"Wait, what? You already…"

Pinkie Pie only giggled and patted her head "Oh Scarly there is nothing your little head needs to worry just let your old aunt Pinkie take care of everything."

"We are the same age" Scarlet argued back.

"Sure we are" Pinky replied simply and pulls her into one final hug, bringing her close to get near her ear "Also, you might as well give up on Blueblood; I will not let you play those kinds of games on him."

"What?" Scarlet whispers in shock as Pinkie breaks the hug and bounces away, acting as nothing happened at all "Come on Scarly, we still need to discuss where to put the last decorations."

Scarlet was left speechless at her words until she starts to process everything.

‘That little mare just tricked me into having things her way AND is actually trying to keep me away from my prince. Oh, Diane, you smart girl' She takes out a pen and a parchment from her scarf ‘you are so going on to the list.' 
Writing her name, Scarlet admired the file with the title of 'Herd Candidates' in which the names of Ember, Chrysalis and Novo were written as well. ‘We can always use a nice jester in our little love nest.' Hiding the parchment once more she follows Pinkie with a sinister smile ‘I smell a sequel in the making.'

The night of the party

As the royal sister's made their way to the ballroom, they stopped momentarily and glanced at Scarlet with a smirk at the mare in question. She, despite sporting one of her most gorgeous dresses which combined perfectly with her mask, was relegated as the pony in charge in receiving all the guests for the party. A job that, unfortunately, meant that until the last guest arrived, she couldn't join the party.

Naturally, the mare didn't show her distress on the outside and was greeting everypony that reached the end of an unusually long line, with a smile and a courteous greeting. Yet the sisters knew both from experience and practice studying body language for years, that the mare didn't like her current situation one bit…and they couldn't be happier because of that.

"It was a magnificent idea, requesting that Scarlet Lips be relegated to receive the guests as one of the conditions, sister. Personally, I would have simply forbidden her from entering the castle grounds or even approaching or nephew, yet I can see the merit of your choice."

"See Luna? Some things can be solved without the use of violence or heavy-hoofed approaches." Celestia replied with a prideful smile, "And this is nothing, I also placed her in charge of the catering service as well as seeing to the needs of the evening's entertainment, and the security of belongings for any guest."

"Sister that is just diabolical." Luna rebukes her in surprise.

"Yeah, and?"

"I like it."

"Me too, by the time this party ends, that mare will have a hard time lifting a single hoof." Celestia announced with a malevolent smile "That will teach her not to mess with our family.”

"Yeah ok, Tia, we get it, you are a mastermind, no need to inflate your ego anymore over it." Luna complained while rolling her eyes earning a giggle from her sister as they both entered the chamber.

"Now let's go, Blueblood is waiting for us, so he can make his announcement." Luna insisted to her sister with a worried voice as they sped up their pace inside, neither of them noticing a particular group of ponies approaching Scarlet who made her smile genuinely.

"Sharp Shot, Crossfire Tempo, Upper Crust, Jet Set, it's so nice to see you made it." She tells them faking surprise as everyone exchanged greetings.

"But of course darling," Upper Crust tells her "We wouldn't miss it for the world." She mentions before putting on her mask, designed to that leave her muzzle in the open. The rest of her companions followed suit. "Especially with such a special occasion about to happen."

"Yeah," Jet Set adds, "Something tells me that this will be one night to remember."

"I would be careful if I were you," Sharp tells them both before entering the room followed by her companion who remained quiet and by his side during the whole ordeal "You wouldn't want the guards to believe you are dangers to the crown, right?"

"Oh dear Sharp, what makes you believe that?" Scarlet ask him with an innocent smile.
> Royal Masquerade Act 1. (BS and RB)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

At a steady pace, life began to fill the ballroom as more and more ponies arrived. Many were immediately awestruck by the music, entertainment and the games that were spread throughout the hall.

Like the galloping gala, some ponies were enjoying the slow and formal dances or happily chatting with one another. Yet there were also jugglers and flamethrowers giving all folks the show of their lives as kids and adults alike, participated in games like at any ordinary child's party. Yet, even more, were enjoying all sort of treats and confections arrayed on tables filled with food and pastries in the corners.

The party was definitely something no pony had ever seen before, something from neither the upper or the lower class but a harmonious event where the two combined. As the prince kept a watchful eye on how things were unfolding from the second floor, he could not help but feel a deep sense of accomplishment and pride. The masquerade was his idea after all, and even though the night was still young, he could easily picture this party would unfold just as he had planned.

"Greetings nephew." The voice of Luna called out from behind him.

Returning back to reality, the prince turned around so he could properly receive both of his aunts as they approached him. They were both garbed in formal evening ball gowns that matched their fur, their appearance was accented further with a pair of golden and silver masks respectively. Each mask adorned with small decorations embedded or etched in its surface to give the allure of royalty to the item and wearer.

"Aunties," the prince greeted with a smile, before moving to them and exchanging a quick group hug with his family before looking up at them, "I'm so glad you were able to come, you both look incredible!"

"We wouldn't miss it for the world." Celestia assured him with a smile as she gave him a glance over, "And you don't look so bad yourself."

"Indeed," Luna commented as she inspected his attire which consisted of a formal long sleeved dark blue shirt with pants that matched in color with his mask. It was complemented by a silver vest, a black cape, and a golden scepter. "Originally, I thought the use of this type of mask would get in the way of the formal attire, but now that I see it in action, I can see the appeal behind it. As you promised, it really gives an aura of mystique and elegance, just like my night, and for that, I must applaud your nephew."

"Thanks, aunt Luna, I'm so happy that you like it!" The prince beamed with pride at her praise.

"We do, and something tells me that we aren't the only ones." Celestia commented as she approached him, "In fact, something tells me that the mares won't be able to take their eyes off of you." She joked giving him a small wink.

"Auntie!" The prince took a step back with a small blush as his aunts giggled at his reaction.

"Relax Blueblood, you know my sister and I are just joking around" Luna commented, "And, As per your request, we are here and ready to put the plan in motion."

"Excellent, now we only need to wait for Jade, Temptress, and Mirage and we can start this show."

"No need to wait for us, your highness," Mirage responded as she and her companions made their way to the Royals. Two of them were wearing the same outfit Luna was sporting while the third one wore similar attire to Celestia. "We're all here." They state with pride before a burst of magic changed them in the exact copies of the royal sisters Temptress and Jade assuming the form of Luna while Mirage became a doppelganger for Celestia. The now thoroughly disguised changeling approached the prince with an open and some might say mischievous smile before speaking in his aunt's voice. "And we are more than ready to party."

"That is great, seriously girls, thanks for helping us out."

"Oh, don't mention it. With how you explained the plan to us, this almost looks like a game." Temptress mentioned with a giggle. "Hey! We could even make this an official party game for the future: 'Guess who is the real princess.'"

She suggests with glee, making the prince chuckle. "Let’s see how the night plays out first and then we can discuss the idea later."

Taking a breath to center himself and focus, he addressed all the mares in a more serious tone. "Now remember, once I hit my scepter after my speech the masks will all be linked with each other, but it will only work with thoughts you want to share, like a voice in your head. So, keep that in mind."

"Are you sure you can handle being in a hive mind arrangement?" Jade asked the princesses with some worry. "Sure, it easy at first but it can get really hard, really fast."

"Phft! Do not underestimate us, fair Jade. My sister and I have faced many conflicts both physical, spiritual and mental for longer than an age. And we have been forced to make decisions on multiple battlefields on the spot. Sharing our mind with five others will be a walk in the park in comparison to that." Luna replied with candor.

Celestia nodded in agreement before addressing Jade as well. "You can trust us, Jade, as Luna said. We have some experience with multitasking. There is nothing to be fear, and we will be fine."

"Well ok, if you say so. Just get ready for the initial hit. The first time your brain is linked like this, it can shake your senses and perhaps your sense of balance for a bit."

"We will keep it our thoughts, thanks," Celestia responded with a smile.

"Ok ladies, let's get into position and start this party!" Blueblood exclaimed in excitement as he started to go to his designated spot, followed by their changeling friends. Celestia stopped him before he goes too far though.

She doesn’t utter a sound but instead uses her wing to pull the prince into one last hug.

"What was that for?"

"For good luck and to calm down."

"I am calm!"

"I mean for me."

"Auntie." The prince smiled and held her hoof. "We have been planning this for weeks now. There is nothing to worry about, I promise you, everything will be fine."

"I know, but years of experience have taught me that even the most flawless of plans can still end in disaster when they are upset by the smallest of things."

"Even if that happens though, I will be prepared," Blueblood reassured her, putting his right hoof on his chest and letting her hoof go.

"Just be careful, and if anything happens, remember. Your aunt and I will always be there for you."

"I know auntie, just like we agreed. I will cautious at all times, and if anything occurs, I will come straight to you." The prince nodded and resumed his march toward the top of the stairs where he could receive his guests properly.

Once everyone was in position, and the lights were cut off the prince took one last breath and prepared himself mentally to put everything in motion.

Ok, it's showtime!

"Citizens of Canterlot!" The prince calls out above the crowd as the ponies start to whisper and try to locate him in all the darkness until, suddenly, a reflector is turned on above the prince, illuminating him in a brilliant circle of light standing at the top of the staircase of the second floor. "Welcome to Equestria’s First Royal Masquerade Ball ever!" He roars out in pride as he lifts his scepter. More reflectors are turned on bathing banners with the silhouettes of the three tribes in the light as well.

"Well, we have to give him this. He certainly can make an entrance." Upper Crust commented, impressed by the display.

"I could have made a better one." Jet grumbled under his breath, unimpressed by the act as the prince continued his speech.

"Many of you are probably wondering, what is the point of this event? And why the need for masks. Well, allow me to explain it all to you." Pointing his scepter to the right, the light shows a new banner describing the three queens that formed Equestria for the very first time.

"Since its creation, Equestria has been known for his value of friendship. Ever since the rulers of the three tribes put aside their difference and decided to work together for a better tomorrow, as equals and as friends. There was no separation of race. No separation of magical mastery of any kind, and of course, no separation of social class whatsoever."

He points his scepter to his left and this time banners showed the accomplishes the elements of harmony have achieved. "It was that union that allowed us to triumph against mighty foes and overcome great calamities, and it is in honor of those great values, that I have created this event." He pointed the scepter above him and a final banner showing the two princesses, a noble pony, and a commoner pony all making a toast in happiness. "For tonight, I wish to invite you all to put aside your social standing and see the pony next to you as your equal."

Addressing his guests, the prince cast out a dazzling smile and points at his own mask with his scepter. "That is objective of the mask my friends. I'm not asking you to let go of your individuality, good heavens no! Who and what we are is what makes us special and strong, but I have to ask you. if We took away all our stations, all our monetary incomes, and all our birth origins. What are we left with?"

Everyone mumbling fades to silent wonder as the prince conducted the crowd like a maestro. Directing their gaze and minds.

"What we are left with my friends, are just ponies." The prince answered in a most pleasant tone, "Simple ponies having a great time and enjoying one night of partying like no other. With friends to spare and stories to share."

A dull roar of excitement begins to build as everypony in attendance hangs on the prince's word, eagerly engaging with the concept presented to them. "Who knows, Perhaps even romance can bloom." He teases impishly, earning some chuckles. "So, let go every pony, let us indulge in this new festivity, of equality and true friendship!"

Meanwhile in Ponyville

Starlight was calmly reading a book while Spike cleaned the floor when her eyes widened and she held a hoof to her chest. "Starlight? What is wrong?" Spike asked her in worry, noticing her reaction.

"I'm not sure Spike, but I have this overwhelming feeling of…pride." She told him with a smile and a tear falling from her left cheek

"Huh?" Spike raised an eyebrow in confusion.

Back at Canterlot

Everyone’s excitement and happiness continue to build with the prince's speech. The prince continues, building the crowds enthusiasm. "And, for all of you that have questions for the princesses and have been put on edge due to recent events. Be assured that your voices will be heard, in fact. Allow me to make the dream of a great number of you come true." The prince smirked and hit his scepter on the ground, resulting in the lights to be turned on again and bank of fog to appear behind him before something emerged from it, the roar that had been building with the prince’s every word died instantly as everyone in the crowd gasped at the sight before them.

From the cloud, three princess Celestia's and, three princess Luna's stepped forward and smiled at the gathered crowd.

"With the assistance of our changeling friends and some magic tinkering with their masks, I give you not one, not two but six princesses of Equestria! All of them mentally linked, all of them ready to mingle and party like normal mares, and most importantly, all of them ready to listen to their worried subjects."

The Celestia to the right of Blueblood takes a step forward and starts to speak. "That is correct my little ponies, just like my nephew said, the news of Fort’s betrayal and the subsequent hunt for his associates, has left all of us in a state of fear and distrust. Such a state cannot be allowed to simply continue on. We all have already suffered more than enough. It's time for all of us to move on."

It was then the closest Luna to the prince who spoke as well. "And that is why, for the remaining hours of the night, my sister and I will be open to any questions that you might have, be not be afraid to approach any of us. Rest assured that your monarchs will hear your question, no matter who you ask and, they will answer, no matter from who it comes from. So by all means, please speak away, ask whatever you want, try to find the real us. Consider this a type of game to play throughout this most spectacular of nights."

Internally all the royals smirked as they saw every pony in the room whispered in excitement at the chance find the true princess, some even appearing to start to play to their ego, claiming that they could spot the real Celestia or Luna and challenge their friends into friendly bets.

Of course, not all the copies are changelings either the prince took a glance to one of the Celestia’s who was watching everyone in the room like a hawk. No, one of the princesses is actually a particularly skilled soldier hoof-picked by my aunts, so good in the art of interrogation and negotiation that her victims don't realize that they are being questioned until she gets what she needs. and She have been trained and instructed for months, to ensure that she can resist the charms of the changeling necklace. A perfect spy hiding in plain sight, with the ideal disguise to perform an interrogation on all the noble community in Canterlot in one single night

Looking back at the crowd below, the prince addresses everyone one last time "So with all this said and done and as the prince of Equestria. There is only one thing left for me to say. Let my people…PARTY!" With a flourish, the prince slammed his scepter in the ground with force, in time for confetti to explode upwards and music starts to play, announcing the beginning of the party as all the ponies cheer and begin to mingle with one another. The princesses nodded to one another before Splitting off, each taking different paths and spreading around the ballroom.

Ok nobles of Canterlot lets party! the prince nods in confidence as he passes the scepter to a nearby guard and walks down the stairs to receive his guests as well and to enjoy the rest of the evening.

Meanwhile, at the entrance

Scarlet finished greeting yet another guest when she caught the eyes of two familiar faces.

"Well, well, well" The mare in question smirked as she saw Amber and Stellar approached her, though instead of wearing formal dresses, both were armed with spears, and fully clad in their centurion uniforms, which looked exactly like the standard golden armor that their comrades in arms wore with the exception that theirs featured the bright silver of platinum on their polished cuirasses, showing the symbols of the sun and moon respectively in the center, and their half helms were molded into the fierce visage of a dragon's skull forming around their faces "Fashionably late, I see. I can respect that, but I'm sorry to be the one who has to tell you girls, but the myth about the uniform making everyone go wild? It only works on mares," Scarlet tells them with a smirk.

" Actually, we’re not here to party, in fact, we are actually on duty as royal guards…miss" Amber responds with only a slight hint of coldness giving her a small glare.

"Oh my, working during such an iconic event?" Scarlet exclaimed faking surprise while trying and failing to hide a smirk, "Such a shame! A brand new and daring social event and you two would not be able to enjoy it. It truly is terrible, what a pity."

"Go ahead and have your laugh, Scarlet." Amber approached her with a smirk of her own. "We aren't the ones stuck here saying “hello” like a parrot."

While still smiling, one of Scarlet eye twitched for a second. "Oh, fair lady, you wounded me." She admonishes the guardsman with a practiced smile and a fake shock before regaining her composure. "So, I'm to assume that my two favorite guard dogs will be joining our beloved prince while barking at any mare that smiles at him?" She asks them before chuckling. "It's always so adorable seeing your jealous act."

Both of them ignore them as they step inside. "Oh, don't worry miss, we already plan for that."

That last comment caught Scarlet off guard as she looks back at them. "Pardon?"

"We figured out your game, and we didn't like it one bit." Stellar agreed with a nod "So we decided to step in and arrange some blind dates of on our own" Amber look back at her with a smirk "With mares, that unlike you, are perfect for our prince, and will keep you far away from him. Just admit it Scarlet, it's over, your little mind games end tonight."

"Wait, blind dates? So, you are not…? You actually…? You didn't consider…?" Scarlet sighed in frustration and facehoofed. "…Are you actually that dense?!" She exclaims in shock at them both, confusing the two as they look at one another and then to her again.

"Oh, for pity's sake, you actually are!" Her eyes widened in surprise and then the noblemare cast her gaze to the ground in disappointment. "And just like that, there goes like five plot twists, one glorious fight between romantic rivals and one beautiful and passionate defeated threesome."

"Excuse me!?" Amber tells her in anger, her cheeks starting to burn up as well. though Scarlet seems to just ignore her.

"I hope you are happy, you just destroyed the dreams and hopes of so many lectors, now go, enjoy your work. There is no point talking with mares this naive, and I still have ponies to receive and welcomes to give as well."

"Ok, that is it, what in Tartarus are you rambling…?" Amber was about to confront her but Stellar got in her way and shook her head, it takes a moment, but eventually Amber managed to calm down and sighed. "You are right, she is not worth it."

They both turn to leave-

"Also, one more thing." Scarlet catches their attention without looking. "It's obvious that you were too naive to realize it, so I will come out and say it. You haven't won anything yet, the prince hasn't chosen an alpha yet and believes me, it will not be that simple, the night is still young, and the musicians are just warming their instruments."

"Maybe you are right, but you will no longer be a part of that dance."

"We will see dear." Scarlet looked at them over her shoulder with a malicious smile. "We will see."

The guards felt a cold shiver run throw their spine as they watched Scarlet continue to receive their guest, before shaking their heads in confusion and going inside. There, they found the other centurions and took their positions guarding the party, while at the same time a shy little Pegasus wearing a simple yellow formal dress approached the prince with a blush, poking his shoulder to gain his attention.

"Ah…e-excuse me."
> The Waltz Of The Butterflies (BS and RB)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the ponies of Canterlot continued to be dazzled and surprised by the entertainment offered to them by the evening masquerade, the prince of Equestria was also being startled by the arrival of a familiar face. Their presence he would never have imagined appearing for this event.

"F-Fluttershy?" The prince finally manages to stammer while still looking in shock at the blushing, masked mare in front of him. Who was currently refusing to make eye contact with him due to her embarrassment.

"P-please stop staring at me like that, it’s embarrassing..." She pleaded, trying to save face.

Oh dear god, she looks just like Bella in a pink version of her dress. Even her haircut is the same one! The prince thought before shaking his head and recovering from his initial surprise.

"My most sincere apologies, I didn't mean to sound so shocked, it’s just…well, yeah I'm shocked to see you, but in a good way." The prince smiled and slowly brought Fluttershy in close for a hug, so as to not scare her. To his joy, she didn't seem to mind and even seemed to relax, if only just a little bit. "Not that I have any complaints or anything, but why are you here? I thought this wasn't the type of event you liked to attend."

Ending the hug, she looked him in the eye. "Well I DO have my fair share social events like this one, and Pinkie's parties are always so fun to have, plus this mask does help a little." She answered while pointing at the golden mask adorning her face. "But besides that, you are right. This isn't exactly the type of parties I usually attend, mostly because they are a bit scary." She confessed, trembling a little as she cast her gaze around. 

"Then why did you come?" The prince asked with a raised eyebrow, his gaze following hers with interest. "Are the rest of the girls here as well?"

"No, it's just me," Fluttershy answered, shaking her head. "And the reason why I came is that Stellar suggested it."

"Stellar…suggested it?" The prince repeated, skepticism obvious in his voice.

"Oh not so much with words of course, but well…she is good at charades." Fluttershy clarified.

"Oh! Yeah, I get it, that mare is the master in that game." The prince nodded a couple of times while reflecting on a memory. "So why did she suggest that you come here?"

"Well, she told me that this experience could help me with a problem I have and…I-I also wanted to do this," Fluttershy states, a bit unsure and faltering at first but growing full of confidence at the end. "For a long time, I have been too afraid to try and do things I wanted to do. So in order for me to face my fears, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and go to this party all by myself!" She declared with confidence before returning to her shy self. "I-I-I mean if that is ok with you, of course."

"Are you kidding?! Fluttershy that is so brave of you, facing your fears head on and trying to be a bit more assertive? It would be my honor if I could help you overcome your insecurities." The prince tells her in excitement gaining the attention of other nobles nearby, who make a point to take a look at the two. Fluttershy soon realized their eyes were on her. "Trust me Fluttershy, by the end of the night; you will be the most assertive pony ever. 

You, me and Pinkie could go around having fun with the games, meet some new friends, and if you want, maybe we could also have a little dance and…" The prince stopped once he notices Fluttershy beginning shake like a leaf as her nerve began to fail beneath the stares of every pony on them. 

"Hey isn't that Fleur De Lis?" The prince asks out loud randomly pointing in the right direction. His distraction has the desired effect, and everyone stops looking at them and starts to search for the mare in question. Seizing the moment, he ducks away with Fluttershy from the center of attention. 

Once they were in the clear, the prince addressed Fluttershy again. "Sorry about that, I guess I got a bit carried away."

"N-no! It's ok. that is why I'm here in the first place, And ah…thanks for letting me do this." Fluttershy mumbles with a shy smile. 

At that moment both of them were surprised by the swell of slow music beginning to play, followed by couples all around them gathering in the center of the dance floor so to start the ball.

"Looks like the first dance of the evening is about to begin." The prince smiles as he observed as ponies got into position. He could not help but find it adorable how mares and stallions alike looked nervous or avoided eye contact as they wanted to find out how to start to dance. "Come, we should give them some space to dance."

He was about to leave, but after hearing her swallow, Fluttershy held his shoulder and refused to move. "A-A-Actually, I was thinking. Blueblood, do you think maybe if that is ok with you, can we perhaps…?"

"Fluttershy, are you asking me for a dance?" The prince inquired with a surprised look on his face, only for the poor mare to just whine and look away in fear as a response. 

"Fluttershy, it’s ok really, you don't need to force yourself that much. If you don't want to dance, that..." The prince tells her in concern.

"N-No! I do-I really would love to dance but…everyone staring at me and…just please..." She tried to act brave raising her shaking hoof at him. "Please don't make me say it!"

The prince understood, smiling he took her hoof with his own. "Ok, if you think you can do it, I'll help you."

"Thank you," Fluttershy whispered to him with a shy smile as he gently guided her to the center of the dance floor in time with the music beat waiting for it to repeat to start correctly.



The poor mare flinches when the prince gently places his hoof on her shoulder but reciprocates the action and holds his other hoof with her own. She tries to relax, but the staring of all the other ponies did nothing to ease her chagrin, making her movements stiff and small.

"Are you sure you are ok?" The prince asks, concern evident in his voice. Fluttershy dearly wished to reply, yet she was preoccupied trying to make her body move. 

Looking at her, the prince just started to get worried until an idea popped into his head.

"Don't pay them any attention Fluttershy." He whispers into her ear, succeeding in snapping her back to reality. 

"Huh?"

Looking up, Fluttershy found the prince smiling calmly at her; it was innocent and small, yet full of warmth and compassion. For some reason, Fluttershy couldn't help but compare his smile with that of Princess Celestia. "Trust me, it helps, just focus on me and everything will be fine."

His words were calm and soft, so much so that Fluttershy, even though she was still a bit unsure, ultimately nodded and didn't resist as the prince brought her even closer to his person."Now close your eyes, and don't worry about the dance, I will lead." 

She nods again and leans her head against his chest before closing her eyes, concentrating only on the music and Blueblood’s heartbeat. "That's it, just relax." The prince continues to coach her as she slowly starts to relax. So much so that she even began to smile contently while the music and their dance continued. "Don't be afraid, tonight there are no strangers here, no nobles, or commoners, or elements or princes, just ponies with masks having a good time and dancing around. There are no eyes on you Fluttershy."

He could feel her hoofs starting to tense; she was getting afraid again. "Shh, relax I got you. Don't think of anypony else; it's just you and me right now, you are not afraid of me right?"

Fluttershy can't help but giggle lightly. "No."

"Good, I would feel bad if I scare you, now let's play a game. A small one to help you relax more, imagine that we are not in Canterlot. Let think for a moment that we are outside of your cottage, completely alone. And dancing under the light of the moon."

Separating for a moment, the prince gave Fluttershy a spin as she starts to be entranced by the music and dance. 

"Where is the music coming from?" Fluttershy asks innocently as she slowly starts to believe his words. 

"Angel is conducting your little animals." The prince quickly replies, making Fluttershy giggle once more. "Angel is acting as the music maestro?"

"Oh yeah, can't you see him? With his adorable formal shirt, his bowtie, and using a twig to guide your little friends, and there, in the corner mumbling in irritation is Spike, holding a triangle. 

Fluttershy giggled at the image as all of her worries seem to melt away. Her bodies movements become smooth and confident. Soon she has been wholly ensnared music, her body acts on pure instinct, moving with grace and beauty. 

"That is it, Fluttershy, you are doing it."

"I'm doing it?" She finally opens her eyes in surprise as her body moves naturally and her fears vanish. "I'm doing it! Oh my goodness, I'm not afraid!"

She exclaims in joy as they spend the rest of the dance without any care in the world. The participates shower the musicians with applause when they stand to take a bow in gratitude.

"You are a beautiful dancer Fluttershy." The prince says looking at her.

Fluttershy only blushes and looks away. "T-Thanks" She then looks back at him with a big smile. "And thank you for helping me overcome my fears."

"Glad to be of assistance." The prince responds to her in pride.

"No I am quite serious, I'm so thankful, your words helped me relax and forget about being afraid. How did you know that would work?" She asks with a raised eyebrow. 

"Ah, it was nothing, just an old trick I used to do, its called subterfuge. Think of it as a magic trick for the mind. I used all the time when I…"hunted for prey" as they call it in the business world." He confessed in both shame and anger at himself. 

"Oh," Fluttershy understood what happened and looked at him in pity. The prince sighed and looked back at her. 

"I'm just glad that for once this dirty trick was used for something other than to make money." 

Fluttershy smiled and put her hoof on his shoulder, giving it a gentle pat. "Just because you know that trick doesn't make you into a bad pony."

That surprised him. "You think so?"

The prince asks stunned as Fluttershy gives him a tiny but brilliant smile and a nod. "I know so, Blueblood this last couple of months I have been able to know the real you. I see how caring and nice you can be. There is no reason for you to hide who and what you are, just because you know how to trick others doesn't automatically turn you into a bad pony, it what you do with that ability that counts."

"Fluttershy... thank you." The prince whispers in reply, deeply moved by her words. 

"Anytime."

Soon they hear the music begin to pick up once again. "Looks like another dance is coming up, shall we, milady?" The prince asked while giving her an exaggerated bow, making her giggle. 

"We shall, good sir." She responded in kind with a posh accent, playing along with the prince. They were about to get into position when someone tapped in the prince's shoulder. 

"Excuse me, your highness."

Turning back to face the voice, the two dancers found Jet Set and Upper Crust wearing their best formal attire, the colors matching and complementing with their coats and masks, also having some feathered decorations on them.

"We only wanted to thank you for inviting us to this grand event, your majesty. You probably don't know us but my name is Jet Set, and this is my lovely wife, Upper Crust. Before your dreadful accident, we used to be excellent friends." Jet Set tells him with a smile. 

"Really?" The prince regarded them both with a raised eyebrow before smiling. "Well I'm sorry to tell you that you are right, my memory of the two of you is foggy at best, and completely gone at worst. But even so, if we managed to become good friends in the past, I don't see how that cannot happen again right? After all, the objective of this party is to form new bonds and start anew."

"I couldn't agree more your highness." Upper Crust answers. "Besides, your wellbeing is what truly matters Prince Blueblood, friendships can be reformed and established as many times as it needs, but the prince of Equestria? That is truly irreplaceable, the clouds would cry for weeks, the sun would possible refused to rise for days, I dare to say that all of Canterlot could stop to a halt if something has really had happened to you"

Oh joy, a couple of suck-ups, this will be annoying The prince internally rolled his eyes before soldiering on with the conversation. 

"I thank you for your kind words Ms.Crust, I truly appreciate it." The prince thanked her as they hear how the musicians were done preparing their instruments. 

"Oh, what perfect timing." Jet Set remarked before stepping very close to Fluttershy before giving her a small bow, offering her his hoof. " Would you care for a dance Ms. Fluttershy? Rest assured, my dancing is far better than that of our fair prince. Who, unfortunately, must be a bit rusty and still relearning the steps. No offense, of course, your highness."

"None, taken. You hit the nail in the head." The prince answered in an honest tone, all the while maintaining a perfectly calm smile. You prick.

"So, what do you say fair maiden? Would you care for a dance with a more experienced dancer?" Jet Set asked Fluttershy again. 

"Um…no thanks." She declines while stepping closer to the prince and holding one of his hooves. "I would rather dance with Blueblood, but thanks for the offer anyway."

There is an awkward silent moment in which Jet remained frozen with a thin smile on his lips before he recovers and bows politely. "Understood, if that what you wish, I would respect your decision."

"Thank you for understanding." Fluttershy smiles but starts to pull Blueblood away from the two. 

"Enjoy the rest of the evening." He calls out before the prince and element bearer disappear into the crowd.

"Don't feel bad honey, she is but a commoner. What would she know about high quality?" Upper Crust consoles her husband with a caring smile. "If you offered a five-star dinner or a simple homemade plate to a farmer, of course, he will always choose the homemade dinner. They don't know any better. So don't get mad, she is not worthy."

She then looks back at him with an evil smile. "Besides we have better things to do."

He matches her expression and holds her hoof with his own before they both start dancing. "You are right dear as always. Why bother with the little things when we have the entire night ahead of us? A brand new Canterlot waiting to be born even?"

"Exactly, so let the prince enjoy his party. We both know that it will be his last."

"Yeah, and who are we to deprive our good friend of a goodbye party?" 

Both of them quietly chuckle with malice as they dance with the music of the waltz. 

-Later that night-

After their dance concluded, and they chatted a little with some of the guests, the prince guided Fluttershy to the royal garden. All the while the two took turns telling stories, the prince mainly chuckling after she finishes retelling how she and Discord became good friends. 

"He made your house spin in mid-air for hours?" The prince asks with a laugh, something Fluttershy also did. 

"Y-yes he did, he thought that doing that would make me angry, but the only thing he achieved was making some of my little friend's hamsters think that they were inside the biggest wheel ever.”

The pair stopped once they reached the center of the garden "He apologized afterward of course, but to this day I still hear some of them wishing for another run." 

"Wow, and to think that he now only does a minor prank here and there. You turned him around Fluttershy, no pun intended."

"He was just misunderstood, and needed a friend, that all. You would be surprised by how much you can achieve with just a little bit of kindness." Fluttershy sagely informs him with a big smile.

"You have a heart of gold Fluttershy," The prince tells her, before moving to stand in front of her, "And after facing your fears like you did tonight, I believe some form of reward is in order."

"What? Oh no, no, no! Blueblood that is not necessary."

She tries to protest, but the prince stops her by putting his hoof on her lips. "Please, I insist, plus I hate knowing that someone that is so kind and helpful to me gets nothing in return, I suppose is yet another thing I will drag with me from my past life." He confides with her, sharing a sad smile, that makes it impossible for Fluttershy to refuse his offer.

"W…well ok if you want to," Fluttershy tells him giving in to his advances, which helped perk the prince up. 

"Great! In that case, could you do me one small favor? Close your eyes."

"W-W-What?!" It was good that they both were currently outside at night and Fluttershy was wearing a mask. Otherwise, the prince might have noticed how the poor mare was blushing like a tomato.

"It will be for a second; I promise it’s nothing bad." The prince begged, putting her hooves together. 

"Ah…Eh…j-j-just…O-ok." Fluttershy finally manages to speak again after blabbering words and shaking furiously, a thing that both amused and confused the prince. "But just one second."

"That is all I ask, oh and no peeking." The prince adds with a smile. Fluttershy takes a depth breath before closing her eyes and slowly leans in. Her fear soon turned to confusion when, she didn't felt the prince approaching, and then wonder once he felt him getting away from her, something she confirms once he speaks again. 

"Ok, now open them."

The moment Fluttershy open her eyes again, she gasps in shock.

In front of the two, dancing on the moonlight were thousands of butterflies moving in time with the rhythmic of the music heard in the distance from the castle. Not only that, but these were special since, unlike usual butterflies, The ones in front of them had light coming from their wings like fireflies, creating this beautiful rainbow mosaic of lights and colors. 

Neo Nocturnal Butterflies?! But…but they are extremely shy around ponies…how could this be?

"Ta-Da." The prince announces, and when Fluttershy look back at him, she notices other small animals starting to emerge from everywhere around the two. "Bl-Blueblood are those…?"

"The rare and shy animals of the royal garden? In the flesh." He tells her with pride as he approaches her with a squirrel resting on a forehoof which he extends, so the animal could see her better. "And all of them are ready to say hi." 

Fluttershy extended her hoof and, to her surprise, the squirrel jumped over and climbed to her shoulder for her to pet. "But…how?" She asks perplexed on how animals that were afraid of even her were now acting so friendly and calm. 

"It's a funny story, you see. It turns out, the original prince wasn't exactly Mr. Popular with a lot of the animals in here, so you could imagine their surprise when I arrive and start sharing my food with them, more than one critter needed to see it for themselves afterward." The prince explained picking a bunny and gently petting his head. "One bunny became a family, from bunnies, birds arrive, then raccoons, then some monkeys and before I knew it, I was chatting with half of the animal kingdom here."

"You…talk with them?" Fluttershy inquires with a raised eyebrow. 

"Oh, of course, no. I couldn't possibly match your skill in communicating with animals, but some of these guys here are smarter than you think. It required a lot of patience from both sides and a lot of charades, but eventually, we managed to find some form of communication and reach an understanding." He let go of the rabbit and takes Fluttershy hoof to guide her deeper into the garden until they reach a lake where the butterflies were dancing around. 

"Wow." Fluttershy breathes out, mesmerized, seeing so many animals playing in the water or dancing in the air with the music left the mare feeling overjoyed. 

"I still need to iron out the details, but so far, they seem ok with me bringing one or two friends here and play around without scaring them. That is, except the butterflies." The prince adds pointing at them. "Those guys just love to show off."

"What?" Fluttershy looks back at him in surprise.

"Yeah, I know. Usually, they are very shy around other creatures but years of them living without worrying about food or predators has tamed them somewhat." The prince looked back at Fluttershy with a smile. "And I'm sure that they, as well as the rest of the animals in here, would love to meet you."

"Really?!" Fluttershy asks in excitement. 

"Of course." The prince responds with a smile "As I told you, you earned this reward, stay as long as you like."

"Blueblood I…I don't know what to say," Fluttershy tells the prince, choking and on the verge of crying from the happiness as she picks a family of squirrels. "This is all I ever wanted since I was a little filly, Blueblood. I'm so happy right now, thank you."

" I am so glad to hear it." The prince chuckled a little as he looks down to a little pup wolf who was seeking his attention. Smiling the prince began to scratch the young canine by his ears. "Perhaps, later on, you can even teach me some tricks on how to com–mph!" The prince finished petting the dog and was turning to regard Fluttershy only to find her lips pressing against his own in a big kiss that was intended for his cheek before she prances ahead of him to meet the other animals. 

"Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Fluttershy continues to chant in excitement. Not even aware of what she just did. 

Recovering from the surprise, the prince has a good laugh and lets her have her moment. 

Ah well, better not ruin it.

"I will be at the party if you need me!" The prince calls out to her before heading back but not before stopping once he sees some animals looking at him in surprise "What?"

As a group, they all break out into a cacophony of chittering smirks and hoots and growls and even the occasional quite literal catcall. "Oh grow up" The prince scowled at them before continuing his march as they continue to their good-natured laughter. All the while, Stellar, who have been observing them from a distant vantage point in silence, smiled and nodded at the development before going back to work.
> Act 2. The Five Deadly Nobles (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

One of the princesses of the sun was happily chatting with a group nobles without a care in the world, when a familiar voice caught her attention and when she turned to find its origin. She saw two pegasuses approaching her, a white stallion who she quickly recognized as Sharp Shot, wearing a black mask that, when combined with his elegant tuxedo, a wine red vest and a rose in his lapel, cut a handsome figure. The pegasus mare who accompanied him was stunning as well. With a pair of wings double the size of those of a regular pegasus, her smooth white coat was groomed immaculately, her long silver mane was arranged in that ever so stylish, slightly messy and curly style that was all the rage at the moment and it draped down to cover her left eye. Her tail was similarly arranged and long. She was wearing a yellow evening dress, a necklace studded with precious gems, and a golden mask. 

"Greetings your majesty" Sharp Shot greeted her once they were close and bow to her, yet the mare remains standing in front of the princess. 

"Greetings Sharp Shot" The princess greeted him with a practiced smile before addressing the mare with a neutral expression "Ms. Tempo."

"Celestia" Tempo gave the princess a short nod while maintaining an expression of pure stoicism, the atmosphere between the two was unusually tense, affecting not only them but all the other Celestia's mingling about the room. 

Both mares maintained eye contact with one another for a solid minute before the princess spoke again "Thank you for deciding to attend."

"And miss my godchild's party? Especially a completely new one that he himself created? That would be just cold." the mare responded, her tone light but her glare accusing. "Monarch of the sun, cold."

"I'm glad to see that your tongue as sharp as ever" Celestia replied in an even, if monotone, voice "By the way, when was the last time you sent a letter to my nephew? Seven? Maybe ten years ago?"

"It hard to write when you are banished from Canterlot and forbidden to any kind of contact."

"I'd never deny your right to send letters" Celestia respond. 

"Save it, Celestia, just like before, the only thing you are concerned is your image with your subjects."

Celestia sighed and looked at the mare in sadness "Please Tempo, let us not do this tonight. If not for me, at least for Blueblood" She pleads her. "If you want to hate me, go ahead, but the last thing Blueblood wants or needs is seeing two old mares fighting at his party."

Tempo remained silent before looking away "For him, and I better have the chance to see him before this night ends."

Celestia was about to protest but for the sake of not making a scene, decided to relent "Just tonight" She finally managed to utter. 

Tempo nodded stiffly before turning and started to walk away.

"There is nothing to worry about princess" Sharp Shot interjected at that moment, gaining the attention of the princess as he gave her a disarming smile. "I promise, we will be in our best behavior."

"Thank you Mr. Shoot" Celestia respond, a bit unsettled by his smile. Which even though it appeared completely normal, was putting the monarch on edge. "Please enjoy the rest of the evening."

"Oh, we will Princess, of that you can be sure. This concept your nephew is proposing is something that I find highly intriguing, with great latent potential, particularly with the implementation of this mask" He gestures towards his own before glancing at other ponies passing by. "A wise stallion once said 'Give a stallion a mask, and you will only hear the truth from him,' a paradoxical concept don't you agree, your highness? The real face of a pony reveals itself only once you cover it up." 

"Indeed," The princess agrees with a neutral expression as she gets closer to him "You never know when somepony could be hiding their true face."

"Let go, Sharp Shot!" Tempo call for him from a distance "I want to see if they actually have real food for this party." 

Sharp laughs at that and shakes his head. "Looks like they are calling for me, hope we can chat some more princess, but until then, have a nice evening your highness." He gives her a short respectful bow before going after Tempo.  

Tia, I might have heard wrong from the music, but did that mare say that she is… Luna called out to her sister using the mental link, but Celestia interrupts her before she could finish the thought. 

...I will explain it later Lulu, for now, I want security to be doubled around those two.

What? Why?

Because I say so! The princess snaps at Luna before the real one headed to the nearest guard and gave the order. 

Meanwhile on the second floor

The prince was casually chatting with a bunch of mares that had swarmed around him, while Pinkie observed from a distance with a piece of cake on her hoof "Adorable isn't it?" Scarlet tells Pinkie, startling the mare for a second as she approaches her carrying her own slice of cake. "Our beloved prince being doted upon by all of the noble mares," She tells her with a chuckle. "They are basically eating out of his hoof."

"Scarly! You made it" Pinkie squealed with glee, bringing her into a hug before looking at her in confusion "But how? Did you really receive ALL of Canterlot already?" 

Scarlet for her part just smirked and lightly pushed Pinkie away "Miss Pie, please, I'm a renowned writer. I know my way around greeting ponies. Of course, I would know how to speed the formalities along far faster than would the princesses could" She boasted before looking at the prince again. "But enough about me, why don't you be a dear and tell me how the evening is going so far?" She inquired, taking a small bite of her piece of cake.

"Everything is going great! Every pony is having a good time and exchanging stories, look! Even my idea for a confetti fight is a complete success" Pinkie exclaimed. Pointing to a group of kids in the garden near the entrance, both nobles and commoners all having fun while using the confetti bombs Pinkie made as snowballs to throw at one another. Their parents not too far away chatting happily.

"So it seems, hmm and I'm also seeing the political game taking root as well," Scarlet commented, paying particular attention to some of the parents whispering to one another, or boasting their job, family or achievements. She even got a pleasant surprise when she saw what appeared to be the beginnings of flirting, here and there among the crowd.

Oh, ho, ho! Now, this party is starting. Some beautiful little herds are forming. She internally chuckled at the show before addressing her co-host once more "And how is our beloved prince doing so far?" 

"Happily making more and more friends," Pinkie informed her with a smile before approaching Scarlet with a smirk. "And way to busy to hang out with you I'm afraid." 

"Friends?" Scarlet chuckle in surprise " Is that what you call this? Pinkie dear, all those mares are nothing but geese!" Scarlet explained confusing the party mare. 

"Geese? What do you mean?" 

"Oh you poor, naive little filly" Scarlet reached out and condescendingly patted the pink mares check "You are still too innocent, but don't worry you will get it once you hit puberty."

"We're the same age!" Pinkie growled out in reply, making Scarlet chuckle once more "Sure dear, sure." She answered, sarcasm dripping off of her words before a guard approached Scarlet. 

"Miss Lips, your presence is required in the kitchen" the stallion professionally informed her, making the poor mare to sigh in frustration. 

"Ah, the job of a mare never ends, keep the good work dear. Oh and do me a favor, would you? Keep an eye on those mares swarming the prince and make sure you can see all of their hoofs at all times." She requested before following the guard away. 

"What?" Pinkie asked again confused by what she meant. 

"Not all of them wants to be friends, honey!" She warns them "Well…perhaps some do, but not the kind you want around him."

Once Scarlet Lips was finally gone, Pinkie weighed her words carefully looking back at the mares until she got scared by what she started noticing, how they all were looking at the prince like a piece of meat.

"Bluey!" Thinking fast Pinkie ran toward the group and went straight for the prince with a hug "Have you tasted the cake yet? It's the most delicious one I've made yet. Here let me show you." She quickly tells him before dragging him away from the mares as fast as she could.

At that moment in the wine cellar

A pony in the shadows finished putting on the clothes of the waiter he had knocked out, only stopping to admire the mask he was sporting. 

"A royal masquerade, yet another example of how narcissistic and shallow, that pompous, snobbish, coward really is" He put the mask on and looked at his hostage, who, at the moment, remained unconscious, gagged, and bound with a rope. "A formal gathering where commoners and nobles celebrate together, in harmony. What a bunch of BS" The stallion remarks, putting on a bracer containing a hidden blade on his left forehoof. Then gave it a couple of tests, as to confirm that its mechanism still worked flawlessly. Once he is satisfied that everything was in order. He addressed the poor stallion once again. 

"I know how this makes me look like the bad guy here, but before you jump to conclusions, just think on all the times that bastard has made you work to the bone for his own entertainment. Think of all the damage he has done throughout Canterlot ever since he could speak. The lives he had ruined, the nonsensical rules he has made in the past, the hypocrisy of saying how much he wants to change, yet he refused to face the consequences for all of his own mistakes!" In anger, the stallion lashed out and cut a barrel in half with his hidden blade. Taking a depth breath, the disguised stallion lifted the waiter up. 

"Yeah, compare that with me, and you will see how I could even be considered a saint, even in my line of work. That is actually why I took this one free of charge" He carefully hid the body inside of an empty barrel in the far corner of the cellar "Trust me" He picked up an empty silver plate and headed up to the entrance "Equestria will be better once that insufferable pest is gone for good"

Back at the party

While indulging themselves with some light chatter with other nobles and politicians, both Jet Set and Upper Crust paid close attention to the guards in the room and carefully analyzed their movements, searching for any change in their patrol routes. They did not have to wait long and soon they noticed how several guards were called away and thinned the security near them.

Acting fast, the couple exploited the opening, with Jet Set approaching a nearby open window while Upper Crust distracted the other nobles.

Once the coast is clear, Jet charges his horn and sent a signal to one of his servants, who revealed his head from inside a dense brush of bushes. The servant quickly moved quickly gave the noble a shortsword with gold filigree and ornamentation on the sheath depicting images of unicorns in the midst of a battle against Pegasus. 

"Here is the relic you wanted sir" He whispers to him "But if I may ask why do you want…?"

"No, you may not!" Jet harshly whispered back, snatching the weapon from his hoofs. "Now get out of here before anyone sees you."

"Sir, I'm begging you. As a loyal servant, please think carefully about this, whatever you are planning to do, ask if it really is worth the risk. The prince really seems like he has changed, perhaps we should give him a chance and…"

"…And nothing. That brat has had more than enough chances, and he has yet to get one form of actual punishment" He hisses out in anger. "Now get out before the guards see you!" He commands his voice tinged with a hint of panic.

The servant can only sigh and follow his orders before hiding once more and exiting the castle, once out of sight Jet Set returns to the party, quickly hiding the weapon inside his clothes as he returns to his wife.

"Took your time, getting that sword" Upper Crust whisper at him in irritation. 

"Our servant grew a conscience for a moment back there."

"Again?" Upper Crust just roll her eyes "Honestly, what is with this 'conscience tripe that everypony seems to be showing? It was cute at first, but now is just getting annoying."

"Don't worry sweetheart, we'll deal with that once we get the power we deserve." Jet comforted her as they started to walk deeper into the party. "Until then, we will just have to play the waiting game a little bit longer."

While that happened, Blueblood and Pinkie continued to explore the dessert table. Or more accurately, Pinkie continues to pick different foods from it while Blueblood does his best to keep the tower of food she is forming balanced on a single plate. 

"Ok Pinkie! I think that is enough." Blueblood finally snapped and stopped his friend the moment he hears the plate starting to crack. He puts the plate on the table and then addresses the party mare.

"I appreciate the gesture but I…" He pauses for a moment to take a second glance at the plate and then back at her "…one second." 

Pulling a piece of paper and pen from his vest, he writes something down before folding the paper, so its message is easily displayed. placing it in front of the mountain of food on could see what it was, a challenge, 'Royal Masquerade, individual sharing is caring challenge, share as much as you can, the winner gets free publicity for a month. Participants, please put your restaurant name and empty plates next to the mountain.'

Soon, ponies read the challenge, and a lot of restaurant owners got to work offering parts of the food mountain. 

"There, now where was I? Oh yes." He turns to look at Pinkie again "I appreciate the gesture, and you are right everything here tastes great. But I'm sure you didn't drag me here just to feed me our combined weight in food, right?" He asks her with a raised eyebrow

She sighs and shakes her head "No, its just what Scarly told me and what I saw. I noticed how all those mares were starting to look at you. I got concerned."

"Pinkie are you worried that, I'm attracting cougars and vipers?"

"Why is everypony keep making up animal names to refer to mares?" She asks in confusion "Seriously? Goose, Cougar, Viper? What does that mean?"

"Well, I don't know for the first one, but Cougar is a term referring to ladies that enjoy the company of younger me…ah, stallions, and can be a bit aggressive in their advances. Sometimes even taking advantage of their 'targets' innocence" The prince explains to her making air quotes when saying target. 

Pinkie gasps at that "That doesn't sound very nice."

"Believe me vipers are much worse. Like poisonous snakes they can disguise themselves as all sort of types of personalities, from overly shy, to extremely confident, they match what their target is more attracted too. Then snare them into their mental game, and never let them go."

"Why would anyone do that?" Pinkie asks in fear and the prince shrugs " For power, as a hobby, for vengeance. There are lots of reasons they do it…but most of the time it's all about money." The prince mumbles in anger while looking away from Pinkie. 

"Bluey?" Pinkie puts her hoof on his shoulder in concern. 

"Sorry, some bad memories, in the business world, especially in those businesses with a lots of money, vipers are everywhere" The prince explains with a sigh before smiling at her "So you don't have anything to worry about, I can detect those kinds of mares miles away, and I'm more than capable of dealing with them."

"But what about the goose? You said that you don't know what those are plus…" She gets closer and whispers in his ear "Your mind is still human, there could be some things about pony society that you don't know about either."

The prince nod at that "True, but that is why my aunts are always around, right?"

"But…"

"Come on Pinkie, Scarlet is just trying to mess with your mind. Don't fall into her games."

Pinkie eye widened at the prince's declaration. "W-Wait? You knew what she is doing but…then?"

"A noble supporting the crown in hard times? A well-known socialite that has helped maintain peace in the city and could be a handy asset in strengthening the bond between the royals and the nobles? How can one turn down that kind of offer?"

"But that would mean…" Pinkie points at him before smiling and nods a couple of times with a smirk "Clever colt."

"I'm more than a face and a royal relative Pinkie, I will admit that I don't know what her end goal might be, but I sure as heck know that she has something planned," He admits to her with a wink before picking a donut off the table and gave it a bite. "Tell you what, if it helps you relax, I promise that if things go out of control, I will remove myself from the situation."

"How?"

"Simple, Stellar has been giving me stealth lessons, for a while now. I dare to say that even you would have a hard time finding me on a game of hide-and-seek."

That helped the pink mare relax as she openly laughed "Oh Bluey, that was a really good one, but I'm the champion of, hide and seek, no matter where you go I will be able to find you in…" The mare was rendered mute when she realized that she was talking to no one but the air. "…seconds?"

She desperately searched around for him, but there was not a single trace of his presence. Then she moves her hoof where he used to be, but there was no luck either "But I…I was looking right at him…and he didn't charge his horn, how did he do it?" She asked some nearby nobles. 

After the initial shock had finally worn off, she just smiled and giggled softly to herself "Ok Bluey, you ask for it, ready or not here I come!" She yells before bouncing off deeper into the party in search for the prince.
> A Flickery Flame Of Fun (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the party was getting into full swing, the prince decided to indulge himself with some of the games outside the building, which in other circumstances. One might think belonged on a carnival or in a grand festival. Yet for some unexplainable reason, they all blended right in with the Masquerade. And to the delight of many some games seemed to be exclusive to it. Like the costume competition, the golden mask lottery and even a bachelor type of contest where stallions asked mares to give them a feather off their mask- one that Scarlet personally insisted in adding.

Unfortunately for him, each time that he tried to approach any game, a group of mares seemed to materialize from nowhere, and they prevented the prince from even having the chance to try his luck. Trying to be as calm and polite as possible, the prince kept telling his fans to please allow him a chance to breathe. Yet his wishes seemed to be falling on deaf ears as the mares just kept talking and complimenting him on any single action he made down to even the steps he was taking.

"Ladies, ladies! Please, I'm serious. Could you please just give me five minutes alone?" The prince pleads once more, yet he was only met with the same result.

"Ok! move along! For pony’s sake, he's a stallion, not a piece of hayburger!" The prince heard a raspy female voice suddenly rang out. With some effort, the prince broke through the swarm of mares until he managed to see a pegasus mare with a mane and tail of fire, garbed elegant yet straightforward light blue dress which matched her mask. Forcing the mares to disperse near the prince, she flapped and arched her wings aggressively, much like a bird of pray when angered or threatened. 

Much to the surprise of the prince, the display worked, and soon all the mares that were swarming him left, leaving the two alone. Of course, that was not before giving the mysterious mare the stink eye and a huff of indignation as they raised their noses into the air.

"That's it, keep it moving! Nothing to see here…bunch of harlots." The mare muttered the last part under her breath, her displeasure evident. Turning around to face the prince she continued. "You ok prince?"

"Yes, thanks for that. I was starting to feel a bit overwhelmed." Blueblood responded gratefully. "How exactly did you do that? I have been trying to shake off those mares all evening, but nothing I said or did seem to work." He inquires intrigued to hear the mare's response.

"Oh, it was nothing, just a mare thing." The mare in question responded with a wave of a hoof. "The name is Spitfire by the way." She then offered her hoof for a shake. "Nice to meet you."

"Likewise, I would tell you my name, but I think that would be a bit redundant by now, right?" He replied back to her with a smile as he returns the gesture.

Spitfire laughed and nodded. "Yep, pretty much, Prince Blueblood." She answered as they end the hoof shake. "Also nice party dude, really. I have gone to both raves and fancy boring parties in the past, but this is the first time, I have seen both at the same time. It is definitely not a snoozefest, you got my seal of approval." 

"Glad to hear it, say, miss, would you like to accompany me while checking out and partaking of the games this evening?"

She gasps and brings her hoof to her chest in mocking shock. "Your Highness! We've only just met, and you're already asking this poor maiden out on a date?!"

"What? No! I mean that is not…"

His objections are soon silenced when she openly laughs and shakes her head. "Oh relax Blue, I'm just yanking your tail." She assures him while wiping a tear of her eye. "And sure, I can hang out with you, in fact, it seems to me that you could use some protection in case more geese are lurking around." She says, getting next to him. "So don't worry, I got you covered. and if any mare gets frisky with you, I will gladly deck her, also drop the 'miss' thing, just call me Spitfire ok?" She announced, making the prince chuckle. 

"Just deck them, that was a good one Spitfire."

"Yeah, I'm…not joking," Spitfire says with a serious tone. 

"Wait, what?" The prince stared at her in shock. 

"Like I told you, it a mare thing Blue. A lot of geese are here and without a mare near you to scare them away they will keep swarming you until you take one."

Again with that word, maybe Pinkie was right about me not understanding all the pony’s lingo yet.

"Don't worry I won't actually hit any mare that batts their eyelashes at you." Spitfire continues. "I will just let them know that I will if they get too friendly."

"Ah…well thanks, I guess." The prince responded, a bit unsure. "But if you insist on protecting me, could I ask what exactly do you mean by 'geese'?"

At that moment, Spitfire looked at the prince like he just grew a second head. "Are you kidding me? You don't know what a goose is?"

"The animal? Yes. The expression you are using right now? No." The prince answered honestly. 

"Boy did the Princesses really keep you in the dark for way too long," Spitfire said, relaxing once more, before noticing a Princess Luna passing by and getting an idea that makes her smirk. "Tell you what, before I explain it, could you give me a solid?"

"Well sure, what do you need?"

"Oh, nothing too big." She points at Princess Luna. "Just let me stay by your side while you ask her the same question you asked me."

The prince looked at the princess and then back to Spitfire with a raised eyebrow. "Why?"

"Trust me, it will be awesome." She says, barely containing her laugh.

Reading her expression, the prince pondered his options before deciding to play along, for now. So with a shrug, he merely nods, and they both move to go see his aunt. 

"Aunt Luna?" The prince calls her attention by poking her left side. 

"Oh! Nephew, so glad to see you" Luna greets him with a smile. "I have to say, this party is a complete success, I haven't seen so many of our subjects enjoying my night like this in far too long, and I owe it all to you." She said before bringing him in for a hug. 

"Well, I can't take all the credit. Scarlet and Pinkie were the masterminds that made this party possible." The prince responded to her while returning the gesture. "But enough of that. I actually wanted to ask you something, if it's not too much of a bother."

"Oh of course! What can I do for you, nephew?"

"Well I was wondering, do you by any chance, know what a goose is?" He asks with a raised eyebrow. 

The princess of the night just looks at him confused "Ah…that is a type of bird." She answered. 

"What? Oh no, no. I didn't mean the actual definition." The prince corrected her as she went to serve some punch on a nearby table. "What I meant to say was, when referring to a mare, what is a goose?"

Luna's eyes widened in surprise as she just spits her drink. In the near distance, they all could hear different princess having a similar reaction, causing Spitfire to burst into laughter. "Oh Celestia, my sides…I just…and in domino effect too?!… Oh my stomach…I…I just can't!" She continued to laugh while holding her stomach and sides, nearly losing her balance, if it weren't for the prince who caught her in time, she would have.

"I'm…ahmmm…" That is all the poor princess managed to say before Spitfire stopped her. 

"Don't…Don't sweat it, princess." She tells her while cleaning her eyes from some tears and clearing her throat. "I got this, just wanted to see the reaction that is all." She explains before pulling the prince away. 

"Ahmmm." The princess said again, not entirely sure of what just happened. 

"Ok, I will say, that reaction was kind of funny." The prince admits with a small smile. 

"Kind of? It was hilarious! But not as much as yours once I tell you what a goose really means." Spitfire tells him with a smirk. 

"Oh boy."

"Ok Blue, here it comes. The term 'goose' when you're talking about a chick means that the mare only wants you to mount her."

"Oh, that is what it…wait, WHAT?!" The prince's eyes widened in shock as he looks at the mare who just nodded in confirmation. "Yep, they can't wait to bend over and spread their flanks for you to 'poke' them. If you catch my drift." She tells giving him a small elbow and a wink.

"I…just, so those mares…why? How…? So many questions."

"I'd imagine, and I was right, that was hilarious." Spitfire laughed again before composing herself once more. "Anyway, the reason for them to act like, well basically whorses, is because of what you are, or more importantly, what you represent. You are the last living relative of the princesses, after all, the last pureblood royalty of your lineage. Do you have any idea of what it represents if you ever get a 'bun in the oven.'"

"Oh no, please tell me is not that..."

"Afraid so dude, those mares just want a nice roll in the hay, and claim the title of 'mother of royalty,' you breed them. They can claim the title, and it’s all easy life for them. Since the princesses already do pretty much all the work in ruling this place and all that. Basically, your 'scepter' is the magic ticket for them to never have to work a day for the rest of their lives, geese desperately wanting to lay that sweet golden egg." Spitfire explained. 

"Are all the innuendos really necessary?" The prince asked, with a raised eyebrow. 

"Would you prefer if I just simply say dick and pussy?"

"I…nevermind, the innuendoes are ok." The prince relents as Spitfire continues.

"That is what I thought, anyway. That's basically where the term comes from. It even gets more depressing." She continued as her expression got progressively more pensive and sad. "Since they already have the next of the lineage, they can file for divorce to get everything you have, and I mean everything and chances are…the court will side with the mare."

"That is terrible."

"You took the words right of my mouth Blue." She nods before smirking again. "So, do you still not want me to clean their clocks?"

"Fine, but only if they get 'too aggressive.'" The Prince remarked, deciding to just accept her help as placed on the condition. 

Dear God, no wonder Aunt Luna was rendered speechless. At least a gold digger just wants money, those mares are just pure evil. The prince muses as they make their way toward some game stalls in the area.

"Ah, fair enough." She replies with a shrug. "Don't worry Blue." She bumps her flank against his. "Good old Spitfire's got your back." She comments jokingly. 

"Thank you." The prince nodded in agreement as they approached a game of toss horseshoes. After paying the fee, the two started playing. "And since you offered to accompany for a while why don't you tell me a little bit about yourself Spitfire? What do you do for a living?"

"Oh, nothing big. I'm just the captain of this little group of expert fliers calls the Wonderbolts, perhaps you have heard of us." Spitfire comments, faking humility.

"Wait, you are the captain of that elite team?" The prince repeats in surprise. "But you are…"

"…Relaxed, easy going and calm?" She lists out with a knowing smirk. 

"Ah well…ah…the thing is…" The prince tries to think of a way to save face before Spitfire just laughed again. 

"Relax Blue, It happens all the time, ponies have this idea of a captain of some military group, and they think they are 'all business, and serious' ALL the time." She tosses the horseshoe "And yeah, that is how I usually am while I'm on duty, but I'm also a mare you know? It's different being in the field than here. Just like you act different between your aunts and your friends, or do you spend all day addressing everyone as 'aunts' or 'aunties'?"

"Ok, point taken, and wow mi…"

"Ah!" She stops him with her hoof. "What did I say about the 'misses'?"

"Sorry about that. Force of habit, and what I was saying is thank you for your service." He tells her with a smile, which to his confusion just made her groan. "Please don't make the salute."

"Why?"

"I told you, I'm off duty now, and I'm sick of ponies thinking that they need to be formal with me just because I have a military job." She looks at him with a serious face. "Just because I'm the captain of the wonderbolts doesn't mean that that is all I am. I mean, I love my job, and I love serving the crown, but that is just a part of who I am." She comments in sadness. "I thought you of all the ponies here would understand that, even more with the whole point of this party."

"I'm sorry, Spitfire, I didn't mean to offend. I just well it's kind of the second time meeting a member of the wonderbolts, and well, the first one wasn't exactly a quiet experience."

That piqued her interest. "Let me guess, Rainbow Dash?"

"How did you…?"

"Because the mare is possibly the only pony that loves the job more than I do, and of course, she will make it a pretty big deal about it." She confides him with some laughs. "I don't blame her though, its an awesome job and she is still wet behind the ears, but at the end of the day it's still just a job."

"Yeah, I can see that now, and don't worry, I get it now. No talking about the job while off duty."

"Thanks, Blue. That is the only thing I ask." Spitfire nods at him before giving him a stuffed teddy bear she just won. "Have a teddy."

"Oh?" He looks to the side and sees she already won the game when the prince only tossed a single horseshoe. "When did you…?"

"You snooze you lose!" She responds with a chuckle. "Now come, let see what other game I can destroy you in.”

Blueblood just chuckles and shake his head. "Oh, it’s on!"

For the next couple of hours, both of them spent the night playing the games in their silent competition, trying to see who could win more prizes. The prince did manage to put up a fair fight, yet it was clear that Spitfire had this in the bag, as she just kept winning every game they played.

"Damn, why can't I beat you in at least one?" The prince asks himself in disappointment as they both carried a mountain of plushies and dolls that they distributed mostly to nearby children. 

"Simple, I'm just that awesome, but don't feel bad, you gave me a good fight for your first time." Spitfire bragged before noticing that the prince kept two dolls with him, one plushie of a cat and another of a dog. "Want to keep those two?" She asks with a raised eyebrow.

"Nah I just wanted to give them to my aunts as a present." The prince replied. "I know it sounds corny, but I want to give them something as a way to say thanks for letting me throw this party."

"Dude, corny is being nice," Spitfire comments with a shrug. "But, if that is what you want, suit yourself." She then smiles at him. "The Prince has a sensitive side? To tell you the truth, I would never have imagined seeing that from you. Specifically, I would say something but being brave enough to show it in public takes a lot of guts."

The prince just chuckles. "What can I say, we all have an inner child in us. It nice to let them out from time to time." 

"Yeah, not me though. I'm just pure awesome, even when I WAS a filly, there is nothing in this world that can make me act like a kid." She replied with confidence. 

"Well, it's certainly refreshing, hearing a mare when she talks with such bravado." A voice behind the pair rang out and when they turned. They saw Tempo approaching them. 

While the prince looked at her slightly confused as to who she might be, Spitfire's eyes widened in complete shock. "The will to take charge and be sure of all of your decisions is a trait that the captain of the wonderbolts must possess after all." Tempo continued talking as she reaches the two. 

"You…you are..." Spitfire was rendered speechless by the presence of the mare. Which confused the prince, but before he could voice his concern, the mare spoke to him. 

"Oh my dear boy just look at you, all grown up." She tells with a familiar motherly smile which the prince only had seen before with his aunts. "You grew up to be the spitting image of your father."

"Ah…you knew my father miss?" The prince asked and gulped, confused and surprised at what she just said, having to remember himself that she wasn't talking to the same person. 

Tempo just looked at him in sadness. "You don't even remember that? Or did Celestia decided to keep that from you too?" She sighed and shook her head. "I suppose it doesn't matter now, what is done is done." She then smiled again. "Allow me to start again my name is…"

"You are Crossfire Tempo!" Spitfire finally manages to yells while pointing at her before screaming and jump in place like a fan filly. "The legendary, ex-captain of the Wonderbolts Crossfire Tempo! Oh my gosh, I'm talking with the legendary Crossfire Tempo right now!" her gaze focused on Blueblood with an unnerving intensity. "Blue, slap me! Right here in the check." She tells pointing to her face. "Please, help me confirm that I'm not dreaming right now."

"T-there is no need for that," Tempo called, lowering Spitfire’s hoof and trying to de-escalate the situation, as she smiles at her. "We all grown up ponies here, right Ms. Spitfire?"

In that instant, Spitfire realizes what she just said and coughed to the side with a fluorescent blush on her face. "Y-yeah, you are right." She clears her throat once more and attempts to regain her composure once again. "It is an honor to meet a such a legend in person."

Understanding what happened now, the prince starts to chuckle but Spitfire point at hoof at him "Not. A. Word."

He remained silent and looked away, but his smile continued to grow.

"Shut up!" Spitfire yelled at him in annoyance.

"Live by the sword, die by the sword honey." The prince finally states, but before Spitfire could retort back, Tempo spoke up once more.

"Anyway, as I was saying, yes my complete name is Crossfire Tempo, but today I go simply by Ms. Tempo. And as for you, you can call me Aunty Tempo". She offers to the prince with a smile. Not far away from them, the real princess Celestia could see their conversation as it unfolded while serving herself a drink. Everything was perfectly fine, right until Tempo called herself 'Aunty.' The drink in her hoof immediately started to boil, and everything around the monarch began to heat up. The air itself began to distort as waves of heat radiated away from the solar monarch. Within this tightly controlled but slowly growing radius of wrath, cloth began to smoke and the cup held in Celestia's hoof, a beautiful work of silver began to melt.

The enraged solar princess began to make her way toward the group, but to their luck or misfortune, Luna intervened and blocked her way. 

"Tia..."

"Not... now... Lulu. There is something I must…" Celestia growled out, but her sister would have none of that as she put her hoof on her breastplate, which had begun to glow a dangerous cherry red around the edges. "Outside. Now."

"But I need-" Her protest was cut off when Luna charged her horn and without warning teleported the two outside the castle. Some staff looked at the condition Celestia left the place and began to extinguish the fires as fast as possible, the guards providing some assistance. All the while Sharp Shot admired the whole show while leaning against a column and eating a piece of cake.

The queens just left the board.

He then turns his attention to the prince who was looking at Tempo with a raised eyebrow. Now, for the bishop?

"Excuse me?" The prince asked, confused by what she just said.

"Perhaps this could help you understand things better." She then takes out a small picture from her dress and handed it over. Once the prince looked at the photo, he was left just as flabbergasted as Spitfire was when they saw the childlike visage of the prince and a younger Tempo.

"I'm your godmother, sweetie." Tempo tells them both with a smile. "Picked by your mother herself." 

"I…I just-" The prince tries to process what was happening yet his surprise paled in comparison to Spitfires, whose brain was in complete overdrive. "You are Crossfire Tempo's godchild?! The legend of the wonderbolts is your godmother?! I…she…you, I just…I just…" It was too much for the poor mare as she passed out from the shock.

"Spitfire!" Blueblood catches her, but her body weight and the awkward angle of the catch was too much for him alone, and he starts to lose his own balance. Tempo though quickly came to his aid. Stabilizing Spitfire before scooping her up placing her on her back. "You know, I imagined this going completely different." She said with a tired smile.

"Poor mare, we need to take her to the infirmary and…" Blueblood began to plan out loud only for Tempo to stop him by lifting a hoof "Please dear, allow me. You stay here."

"But I…"

"As touching your concern for her is Blueblood, and it really is. Something tells me that right now you need a moment to breathe, am I wrong?"

The prince just looks down in sadness. "Don't be so sad sweetie." Using her wing Tempo lifted his head. "We both have been tricked by the words of the princesses."

"Tricked?"

Before he could say anything else, Tempo turned around and trotted away. "I will take care of your marefriend sweetie, you just worry in calming down and organizing your thoughts." She calls before disappearing among the crowd with Spitfire. The prince remained confused about what was happening and decided to walk toward a nearby balcony to analyze what he just experienced while holding his head in pain.

As expected a significant number of guards followed Tempo as she looks for the infirmary, smirking Sharp Shoot finished his plate and stretched. 

Not what I expected, but by far, better Sharp Shot smiled malevolently as he walked in the opposite direction of the prince, knowing full well that guards were following and effectively leaving Blueblood completely vulnerable, and ready to be a struck down by his associates. Check!
> Final Act. The Noble Fool (RB, SC and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the evening reaches midnight, the celebration seemed to have reached its zenith, with everyone enjoying themselves while making lasting memories with the new type of party. Unfortunately, not all was fun and games in the castle, as one shadowy figure disguised as a waiter, at last, managed to spot the prince of Canterlot all by himself, looking out into the night at the top of a flight of stars on a balcony, lost deep in thought. 

It was undoubtedly a unique opportunity that he wasn't going to miss, so he made his way toward his unexpecting target with a drink on a silver plate in one hoof, and a hidden blade on the other.

He began to close the distance, but before he could get close enough to strike, a certain pink mare found him first and surprised the assassin with an unexpecting yet strong hug. "Bluey! There you are." She chuckled as she looks at him with a smirk, "You thought that a waiter costume could fool this mare? Well, I'm sorry to tell you this mister, but this mare has the eyes of a hawk!" She looks him in the eye with a smile. "Speaking of which, that’s a nice touch with the contact lenses, total devotion to the disguise, but unfortunately it’s still not enough to shake me off your trail!" She booped his nose with her hoof. "Still it was entertaining, let's do it again!"

The assassin blinked at her owlishly in confusion and then in concern when he noticed that the two of them were gathering the attention from the nearby guests and worse, the royal guards. "Sorry miss you have me confused for somepony else." The assassin states flatly as he tried to brush her off and push the mare away, but she refused to let him go. 

"Oh come on Bluey, I know it's you. So stop with the charade." She chuckled and grabbed his hoof. "Come on, let's play something el…" She then felt something in his hoof and grew confused when she saw a thin bracer, discreetly tied along his foreleg. "Oh, what is this?" She asks in confusion while playing with the device.

"Wait, no!" The assassin tries to stop her but it’s too late as she activates it, the blade snapping forth and in to place, its dully glinting tip almost reaching her face. "Bluey..." Pinkie slowly looked up to him in concern. "Why do you have a hidden blade?" She then notices something else that caused a pang of fear to shoot down her spine. "And why are you not wearing a horn?"

The guards, now alert and closing fast, caused the would-be assassin to panic and shove the mare away before throwing a smoke bomb on the ground to startle everyone and break line of sight on him. Taking advantage of the confusion, he threw caution out the window and charged out of the smoke at the prince who surprisingly hasn't noticed him yet. He leaped into the air with his weapon at the ready and bears the prince to the ground while plunging the blade into the prince's neck and spine.

The assassin smiled in triumph for precisely one second before becoming concerned and then scared when the prince just chuckled with an eerily high pitched voice, his head slowly rotating hundred and eighty degrees to looking him in the eyes, revealing that he was nothing but a scarecrow disguised as the prince with a smirk on its face. "Welcome to your trap," The scarecrow hisses out before grabbing his hoof and disarming the assassin. its jaw then hinges open impossibly wide and from it, a net fires out and entangles him and immobilizing him on the ground.

Startled and confused the assassin tries to break free while noticing that the guests around him wavered like mirages before dissipating to reveal even more soldiers, all armed, armored and approaching him with Amber leading them while Stellar stayed behind with a charged horn which she just turned off.

"Well lookee here ladies and gents! We caught us a big one." She chuckled while looking at her companions. "An assassin attempting regicide? And the beloved nephew of the princesses to boot? Oh, you are so going to Gelded Maiden, Bub." She smirked as the stallion continued to struggle with the net.

Something the guardspony finally caught the attention of the stallion though and he paused in his struggles to speak. "Beloved nephew? Please, that sack of manure is as loved as a root canal." He replied, earning himself a solid back hoof in the face from Amber. "Consider yourself warned, speak about our prince like that again and I will cut out your tongue," Amber warned him in anger. 

"Are you alright miss Pie?" Another guard called out while he approached Pinkie Pie and helped her back to her hooves. "Yeah, I think so... what is going on?" She asked, somewhat confused at all that was happening around her.

"It looks like you stepped into Stellars illusion miss. How though, I have no idea. I was under the impression that the spell had a perfect success rate in keeping civilians out of the affected area. We detected the intruder the moment he took down one of the waiters, we then enspelled and lured him here into this empty ballroom to detain and interrogate him." He explains "It’s a good thing too, since it appears that he was planning to take the prince’s life."

She gasps and looked at the scarecrow still holding the blade. "He was?" She then looks at the stallion in question. "Oh wow. He is mean."

The assassin meanwhile just keep staring at Amber. "Loyalty, I can respect that" He then grabs his mask. "Too bad, yours is to a soulless monster."

Pinkie gasped when in front of them, they saw their a pony having a striking resemblance to the prince staring back at them with a glare. Not only that but before being covered by it, they all saw an X scar on his forehead where a horn would have been.

"Well, at least you have a pretty face" Amber half-joke at the revelation, but Pinkie was still freaking out.

"Amber! Look at his eyes, he's a crystal pony!" Pinkie yells at everypony in the room.

"Do NOT compare me to that bastard!" The assassin screams in complete rage. His blue eyes flashing red as an aura of the same color engulfed his body and start to burn everything around him. Both the net and a golden wig he was wearing burnt away, revealing a black mane and tail. 

"Guardsponies! To arms!". Amber yells in warning to the cohort of guards around who immediately began to react, but it was too late as the stallion spat what appeared to be a translucent magma from his mouth hitting some other nearby guards. The afflicted ones scream out in pain as the assassin makes good of his escape, diving out of a nearby window. Some of the guards give chase while Pinkie, Stellar and Amber along with a smaller squad of soldiers with medical training stayed behind and went to tend to their injured comrades. Amber attempted to hold one of the struggling guards down only for her hoof to get burned on contact with the magma.

"Amber are you…" Pinkie tried to help, but Amber shakes free of the pink mares helping hooves. "Don't touch me! It will burn you!" She warns her off through clenched teeth "Get out of here, it's not safe ."

"But you are injured!" Pinkie protested as she pulls a fire extinguisher from her mane emptying its pressurized contents over the guards in hopes of extinguishing the flames but to no avail. "We need to take you to the infirmary!"

"I said, Go after him!" Amber yells again in complete fury. Pinkie got worried when the guard stood up again and looks at her in rage, her eyes turned red, and Fire began to emerge from her injury. "Amber?"

"Of course you wouldn't listen, stupid civilians are always getting in the way, would it kill you to obey just ONE command!" Her mane actually ignited in flames as Amber dipped forwards aggressively to attack her. Not only that, but the other guards that were affected by the fire were doing the same, and appeared to spread the anger to their victims, like some sort of burn infection.

"Guys?" Pinkie asked in fear when she found herself surrounded by brainwashed and enraged guards, Stellar trying to guard her.

Meanwhile, in the real ballroom.

The prince was lost in thought while leaning on a balcony. His mind still was churning with questions and doubts he could not even begin to figure out how to even ask. Tempo’s words still ringing inside his head.

You are the spitting image of your father.

The Prince shook his head rapidly, trying to clear his mind. Father, I have a father, another father. Most likely an even better father. Of course, I would have one here too. A pony dad and mom, it’s so obvious now. Yet why did I never bother asking about them before? More importantly…, The prince looked over his shoulder to see one pair of princesses chatting with the nobles. Why would my aunts never mention them even once, after I had a brush with death like I did? Did…something happen? Did they get into a fight? If so, why did I end up living with my aunts instead of with them? I mean, if it was a question of safety, I suppose two demigods could be the best possible option…

The prince stopped to think over what he just realized. Holy crap, I have what are basically two demigods as blood relatives! Ok, seriously, it has been almost two months but how the hell did I miss that?! He scowled to himself for missing such a staggering revelation before shaking his head Calm down, calm down, that is a…whole can of worms you do NOT want to open right now. Concentrate on what is currently happening.

He looked up at the stars. So what happened to my pony parents? Are they in a secret diplomatic mission? Or perhaps they died? If they’re alive, should I figure out how to reconnect with them? With all the political games, what does the family I know have to say?

The prince holds his head, a migraine having sprung up as the questions continued to pile up unabated Argh! So many questions! Why isn't anything easy?

"Prince Blueblood?" Slightly startled by the new voice, the prince looked behind him once again only to find Jet Set staring back at him with a smile. "Taking a break from your party, I see. Are the activities of the night starting to overwhelm you?" He asks with a raised eyebrow. 

In response, the prince just sighs and turns his attention back to the moon, so Jet can't see him rolling his eyes. "What do you want Jet Set?"

"Well, aren't we a bit cold toward one of your closest friends? And here I just wanted to talk with…"

"Jet, no offense but right now I would like to be alone if you don't mind."

The tension in the air started to get heavier. 

"And what happens if I DO mind?"

The prince just groaned in frustration and shook his head. "Whatever, I'm leaving" He turned to leave, but Jet blocks his way.

"As I said, I want to talk."

"And like I said, now is not the best time."

"Oh sure, it's not. It never is, right?" The prince ignored him once again as he passed Jet Set, and entered the ballroom with Jet Set giving chase, "You are always busy, with other projects, right? Never owning up to your mistakes, always running away. Searching for a scapegoat to take the fall for your errors." Jet Set screams as the prince continue walking.

Geez, what got into him? The prince thought in concern as Jet Set turns more aggressive. 

"Who is going to be the next one to pay for your mistakes prince? Your maid? A Guard…perhaps that Fluttershy mare you took advantage of off in the gardens?"

That last comment caught Blueblood off guard as he sees a lot of the guests gasping in shock and looking at him with disgust "What?" The prince asks in disbelief as he slowly turned around to face Jet but is then surprised when Jet Set pulls out a golden sword and points it at him 

"You can't keep running forever, Blueblood, the time for you to pay for your crimes has finally come!" Jet yells trying to grab as much attention as possible

"Jet, what are you doing?" The prince asks, the raw edge of worry creeping into his voice, as they both start to gather an audience, he could even see Upper Crust faking surprise while subtlety motioning for more ponies to come and see. For some reason, Blueblood couldn't see any guards either, and the changeling princesses that were there just stood there, apprehensive.

So they want an audience for this? I suppose this means they don't want my head then? I'm pretty sure, no one wants to see a public execution and those two couldn't possibly be so stupid as to go invoking my aunt's wrath. The prince ponders as Jet continues.

"I'm imparting justice."

That is the only reply Jet gave the prince before lifting his sword. The prince was about to dodge of the way. When to his surprise, instead of attacking, Jet tossed the sword to the ground in front of the prince. "Prince Blueblood of Equestria, by the ancient law established by Commander Hurricane herself. I, Jet Set. As a graduate of Celestia School for Gifted Unicorns and member of the noble peerage in good standing, formally accuse you, Prince Blueblood with the crimes of abuse of power, and of breaking innumerable laws without punishment. I declare you unfit, unjust and unable to lead Canterlot and therefore issue a duel for your position." 

He then took out and tossed multiple copies containing the list of past crimes Blueblood made public for everyone to see “The prince himself has shown us his crimes Canterlot, the right of challenge is justified!”

Jet tells taking a step back from the prince and favors him with a baleful glare. 

“Do you accept?”

Ok…what is happening? The prince asked himself as he tries to recover from the jump and the unexpected challenge. “This is ridiculous, I'm not going to fight you, just because you challenge me. Besides, I can’t fight you even if I want. I don’t have any proper training on sword fighting ." The prince replied yet, his challenger did not back down.



"Don't you dare act all high and mighty Blueblood!! Did you or did you spend time this last couple of weeks training with the help of your elite guards?” Jet accused the prince taking him by surprise. 

"How did you know that?" The prince questioned, surprised by the revelation.

“Go ahead and deny it if you want, just like everything else,” Jet Set remarks while continuing to rile up the nobles “You preach about turning over a new leaf yet as soon as a problem arises you turn tail and refuse to acknowledge it?" He stomps into the ground shattering tile, and charged his horn, lifting a chunk of the floor up into the air before making it shine, and transform into another regular sword which he then grabs with his hoof and points it at the prince. Finally, some guards took notice of the developing situation and moved to surround the prince in a protective matter, yet this action does not discourage Jet Set. In fact, it seemed to only drive him to new heights of righteous anger. "No more. We, the ponies of Canterlot have endured your presence for far too long and gave you all the opportunities for redemption. That time is far gone, and it’s time for you to pay for your past crimes, now pick up that sword and face me like a stallion! Or forfeit the battle, and with it, your title as a prince." Jet Set commands the prince pointing at the golden sword in front of the prince. 

Jet Sets grandstanding continued gathering more ponies, and to the misfortune of the prince, he started to notice some of them were looking at him with stern looks, others were beginning to mumble to one another. He also saw how the swords had the guard and hilt modified. It resembled more a hollow cupholder, with enough room for a hoof to fit inside.

“Even princess Luna sought our forgiveness and underwent one thousand years of banishment for her transgressions against the crown, with her title stripped away.”

My Aunty did what? The prince then remembers the words his aunt Luna told him on the first night he spent in Equestria. Auntie…was that the past you were telling me about? 

The prince felt sad for his auntie until he thought of the angry glares that he was starting to collect from everyone present in the room.

No, this isn't good. Jet Set is trying to spread distrust and anger toward me. If I don't stop this, the point of this party will be lost, my aunts will be back to square one…no it could even get worse. Scarlet…was this your end game? 

The prince tensed and gulped as he weighed his options and tried to read the room to determine the best course of action.

"Jet Set please, be reasonable. You are demanding a duel against a pony that has never lifted a sword in his life, a complete and total novice with a blade. What honor or satisfaction is to be gained by beating a newcomer."

Blueblood said before looking at everyone. "As you all know, my memories are gone, I have recognized that in the past I was someone far from deserving forgiveness, but I'm telling you everypony, that pony is gone. And the stallion standing in front of you just wishes to put all of that past behind him." bending down, Blueblood then pick one of the copies of accusations that Jet had thrown. Appealing to the crowd's compassion, "I promise you that I will be held responsible for my actions."

He looks back at Jet with a stern expression. "But it will not be like this, violence can't solve all of your problems, even less so when it's not fair for one of the participants, if you have a dispute with me then let us talk like civilized…"

"…Look at him ponies of Canterlot!" Jet interrupted him and addressed the crowd, setting the guards even more on edge than they already were. "Look at our supposed prince of Equestria, a scared and fragile colt" He points at the plushie the prince was still carrying. "So afraid to confront his own consequences that he refused to fight me! As I enforce the law one of our own founders established!"

The audience starts to glare at the prince and start to voice their own angered opinions. 

"It’s true."

"The prince is nothing but a coward!"

"He doesn't even care on stomping on the constitution!"

"Is this the prince, we want?" Jet asks stoking the crowd even more. "Is this the pony we want as our ruler? What kind of monarch does as he pleases and never accepts his mistakes? Or better yet, what kind of princesses would let such a pony, walk away without any consequences?"

The prince eyes wide in horror at his words as the audience agrees to Jet Set’s words. No, not that, Jet Set, don't you dare!

"How can we trust the princesses of Equestria when they refuse to enforce their own law, and deny us the right to challenge the prince?! The law is clear everypony, just as Commander Hurricane said and later ratified with her friends, an unfit commander has no place in leadership, a prince without authority doesn’t deserve a crown, a chancellor without respect for the law has no business on the desk. The prince of Equestria is all of those things, nothing but a mockery of the title and a bad joke for all of us to endure. He has no power, no right to order us around and no place living here in the castle with our monarchs.”

“YEAH!” The audience get even more violent, and the guards now stood on the knives edge, ready to defend the safety of the prince

“Yet the princesses keep hiding the idiot behind their tails, the act itself, even now in light of all this evidence, it’s an insult to all of us. If they will not respect the law then how can we trust…?"

"STOP!" The prince yells bringing all the attention to him once again, even the guards look at the prince with confusion. Breathing heavily the prince levitated his plushie away, giving it to a nearby Luna and Celestia, before taking a step forward and regarding at the sword in the ground. With eyes closed and a shaking hoof, he managed to take up the weapon "Don't…don't involve my aunts into this." He tells Jet Set with barely contained tears. 

I'm sorry aunty Celestia…aunt Luna. But there is no other way. I…I can't break Canterlot even more. 

Sniffing once and cleaning his eyes he looks at Jet Set with determination. "Jet Set, as you said. I need to repent for my crimes, like a stallion.”

The guards gasp and gather around the prince “Your Highness no!, Please listen to reason! I know his reputation, He is a master swordspony and duelist, you stand no chance against him!” One of them says his concern.

“I know…but it the only way,” The prince tells him back in anger. “At least this way I save my aunts reputation.”

“Heh, so you finally listen to reason and admit that you had…” Jet chuckled at him, but the prince interrupted the stallion before he could continue.

“Nevertheless, It IS as I said, I have no experience with sword fighting, so if we really are going to do this, and if my knowledge of dueling etiquette is correct. I, as the challenged party, get to choose the weapons. As such we use only training swords, that will be my condition.” The prince declared “Step down my level in a fair duel or win with dishonor by fighting a pony who has never held a sword before” He then toss the golden sword away, the ponies around them curious by his claims and look at Jet Set in expectation for his response.

The noble stallion meanwhile stated a mental link with his wife.

Now what? Our plan depended on him using the sword.

Don’t worry honey just repeat after me.

“It will not be that easy prince, but if it will save me from having to listen to any more of your excuses? Fine, but I will not be denied my right to a proper fight, we will using live steel swords with their scabbards bound by honor knots to the guards. Should be satisfactory...Prince?”

The prince thought it over for a moment before merely nodding in agreement. A guard soon brought forth the sword he has previously throw and quickly removed his own scabbard, sheathing the blade and tying it down securely. The guard then nodded to the prince and returned the weapon to the Prince.

“Now, Jet Set, if you would?”

“Oh, but of course prince.” He was about to conjure a scabbard for his own blade when the prince held up a hoof, “ No, use one of my guard's scabbards.” the prince told him with a glare, his tone brooking no argument. Jet seethed inside but outwardly remained calm, ultimately smiling “As you wish” Jet Set accepted another guard's scabbard and placed it on his own sword. Securing it with a jerk of the bindings. 

“Now, shall we begin?”

“Lets.” the prince agreed as they both leave toward the garden followed quickly by their audience and the royal guards. The noble couple smirking in victory 

Now everything's in place, just finish him, darling!

With pleasure, how long will it take before the spell takes hold again, dear?

It already has, and will just keep increasing its power, as long as he holds that sword, his fears, and anguish will keep piling up and increasing until he is nothing more than a scared and pathetic kitten.

So it should not take long then? Shame, I really wanted to enjoy this.

Patience my dear, removing him will be but a stepping stone towards our destiny.

All the while this was happening the changelings kept trying to contact the real princesses. Yet each attempt they made was met with white noise and broken fractions of their voices as if they were out of range from their mental link.

(Stop music)

In the meantime, outside the castle.

"Formal Attire herself choose that mare to be Blueblood’s legal guardian?" After managing to calm Celestia down, the princess of the night started questioning her sister about why she had been so on edge since her encounter with Tempo, so reluctantly, Celestia gave in and told her the whole story. Luna, in turn, returned to being confused once again by the entire ordeal.

"Yes, but that doesn't mean that she is worthy of the title, not anymore at least." The princess replied, her voice full of venom towards the mare. 

"Would you care to elaborate dear sister? Because so far, from what I'm hearing, it sounds like you took away our nephew from a mare who by law, has the right to raise him all along."

"I needed to take him away from her Lulu, you have to understand, Crossfire Tempo…she hasn't been the same mare Formal Attire entrusted her son to in the first place," Celestia whispers out, pity tinging every word before sighing and looking back at her sister. 

"When Blueblood’s parents died, Tempo has suffered a terrible accident during one of her exhibition flights, one that forced her to be on a full body cast for years. It was a terrible experience for her and a potentially worse for Blueblood. She couldn't even move and was barely able to breathe. Of course, she was in no condition to take care of our nephew. He was 3 years old at the time, for pony’s sake Luna!"

Celestia bellowed out loud in exasperation before pausing for a moment to compose herself. "I couldn't leave any of them alone like that, so an agreement was made. In exchange for letting me be Blueblood temporary guardian, Tempo could live in the castle and have access to the royal staff for her recovery, it was the least I could do…but then things took a turn for the worst for that poor mare and by the time she recovered she was somepony else, somepony that no longer wanted to lead the wonderbolts."

"What happened?"

Celestia was about to respond when they heard the shouts of the guards. "Stop! You criminal!" Off in the distance and when they look towards the source of the ruckus, both monarchs were shocked to find their nephew, on fire and being chased by a group of guards that were firing arrows at him. 

Acting fast, the princesses rushed toward them, and Luna used her magic to stop the guards while Celestia gets in the way of the 'prince.' Yet she gasps when she notices the black mane and scar on his face as he merely shoved her out of the way and makes his escape. 

"What is the meaning of this?" Luna asks her guards in anger. 

"Your Highness, you don't understand, that is the assassin!" One of the guards, a thestral, answered her.

"What?!" Both sisters screamed as Luna ends her spell. 

"He is a crystal pony, who tried to kill Prince Blueblood. Most likely he is the same criminal that made the first attempt, we and some sentinels managed to corner him, but all of a sudden, he surrounded himself with a red aura and starts spitting some strange magma that injured some of our comrades and then made his escape!"

"He is the one that…" Celestia's eye flashed white in rage as she slowly starts to look in the direction in which the assassin ran away. "Where did he go?" Before she could do anything, Luna stops her sister once more, this time her face filled with determination yet also worry for both her sister and her nephew’s sake. 

"Focus sister, we don't have the luxury of act irrationally now. Time is of the essence" Luna pleaded with her sister.

"O-of course…you are right, Luna," Celestia tells her while regaining her composure. With a nod, Luna lay down her plan 

"Leave the chase to me, I can navigate my night better than you."

"Understood, and I will go fetch Cadence. If this stallion really is a crystal pony, perhaps she would know exactly what he did and how to combat it." Celestia informed her, and with a nod, both princesses take action as Luna with her guards resume the chase and Celestia teleports away in search of her niece. Neither of them noticed the small red flame on Celestia's chest left by the assassin, as that was starting to glow and spread.

While that transpired back in the castle, chaos was spreading in the main hall at an alarming rate as both Pinkie, and the guards kept losing ground. 

"Oh come on guys! It's a chocolate cake?! Who doesn't like chocolate?" Pinkie complained before hiding again behind her party cannon while guards smeared with the desert shot magic beams at her.

A guard quickly picked up the poor mare while the remaining group headed to the double door, closing it behind them and trapping the afflicted guards. Pegasus guards did a quick job of securing the windows, using snow clouds to seal them with dense layers of snow. 

In the second entrance, guards held the door as their companions tried to break free, while the rest attempted to recover their breath. "Miss Pinkie, could you please not anger our partners even more?" one guard told her while Stellar checked the mare for any burn marks, before sighing in relief once she didn't find any.

"But it was chocolate cake. Chocolate. Cake. Who can remain angry after having a taste of that?" Pinkie argues back. 

"Well, I'm not that crazy for chocolate actually." One of the guards holding the door informed the party mare before leaning against the door once more when it was about to break open. "Ah, perhaps this is not the best moment to discuss flavor preference." 

"Agreed." The guard helping Pinkie nodded before looking at her. "This place is no longer safe miss Pie. We need you to go seek help before this spirals out of control any more than it already has."

"Okie Dokie!" Pinkie makes a salute and dashes away. Once she is gone the guard addresses Stellar who keeps looking at the door intently.

"Think you can give us a scream?" The guard asks her in worry to which she merely looked at him and nodded before looking at the door again and began to inhale. 

"Ok fillies and colts! We will be using the sonic hammer! On my mark, clear the way!" He instructs the ones holding the door. Once he gets confirmation the guard look at Stellar, who plants her hooves on the ground and lowers her head. 

"Steady…" He pays attention to Stellar’s actions until she lifts her head once again. "…NOW"

The guards dive out of the way and cover their ears, letting the enraged soldiers jump out into the open, only to run face first into a near solid wall of sound caused by the scream emanating from Stellar, one so big and powerful that it threw them all back and obliterated all the glass nearby. 

Startled and holding their ears in pain, the corrupted soldiers were easy to restrain, quickly being apprehended and immobilized by the unicorn’s spells or chains and manacles used by the pegasus and earth guards. 

Their victory is short-lived though, as they see a hole torn in the floor in the middle of the room and Amber was unaccounted for. 

"What room is below this one?!" One guard asks in fear. 

"The royal kitchen…which is where Scarlet currently is." Another soldier answered, making him and the others gulp and look at the hole in worry. "May Equestria have mercy on that mare." The guard tells them in fear.

Meanwhile on the center of the Royal Garden

The tension in the garden was almost palpable as both stallions kept eyeing one another while making their final preparations to start the duel, a noble stallion by the name of Fancy Pants had agreed to act as the judge for the event; an impartial third party that would ensure fairness during the duel and will not tolerate any cheating. For a moment, Jet Set gulped when Fancy was in the midst of inspecting the swords that they would be using, only to breath in relief when he nodded and gave them back to both of them. His wish winking with a smirk.

While both Jet and Blueblood studied their opponent's body language, Fancy Pants went over the rules of the duel.

"The rules of the duel are simple. The stallion who is disarmed is unable to continue the fight or surrenders, loses. Both combats have chosen the use of a sword and as such, said weapon and your hoofs will be the only forms of attack allowed during the duel. Magic is permitted but only as a means to avoid or defend, illusion magic is forbidden, as well as strikes to vital organs or the eyes. 

The arena will be enchanted so that it will heal and/or regenerate any injury that you might accrue during the fight, but the pain from the injury will remain. Keep that in mind." 

Wait, regenerate? So that means that we can cut off limbs too? Oh boy, now I’m happy I demanded our swords to be sheathed. The prince thought as Fancy kept talking.

"Additionally, the only offensive magic allowed is that which is cast on or through the sword itself. As long as the weapon is what is being used, it will be allowed." Fancy continued. "There will not be a time limit. Since the duel was issued due to the evidence of crimes against should the prince loses his title will be removed.” 

“And be given to me” Jet Set added snidely, earning a glare from Fancy Pants. 

“You overstep your boundaries, Jet Set, the law allows you a duel with the prince and nothing else. You can only claim that title if you get the approval of the people of Canterlot, and only when and IF you win” Fancy calmly remarks back to the noblestallion.

“ Can you not hear them?! I have the approval of the people, Fancy Pants. That title is as good as mine” He claims, assured of his impending victory. 

The monocled noble just shook his head and rolled his eyes in response as he continued “If the prince in turn wins, it will be declared that he been absolved of all of his previous crimes, all of them. The battle will start as soon as I give my signal; Duelists, do you understand?"

Both stallions nod and ready their weapons, waiting for Fancy Pants’ signal.

At that moment, a curious Fluttershy took notice of the growing crowd as well as the prince and approached them intrigued, by the gathering. 

"Ah excuse me?" She asked a nearby noble. "Do you know what is going on?"

"Prince Blueblood is about to receive a beating." He responds in excitement. 

"W-W-What?!" Fluttershy gasps in shock. 

"I know, right?" The stallion smiled and look back at the two ponies. "That narcissistic, spoiled brat has had this coming for a very long time." 

Fluttershy desperately tried to move forward and stop the fight, but her efforts are soon denied by a group of soldiers acting as security. 

"You can't go beyond this point miss." One of the guards tells her. 

"Let me go! We need to stop this, Blueblood…he is going to get hurt!"

"I'm sorry miss." The guard answered her with a neutral expression. "The prince is bound by ancient law written from the times before the Princesses. We can't do anything... no matter how much we may want to."

"But…it's not fair, he didn't do anything bad." Fluttershy tries again, but her efforts are met with the same result. "He is a changed pony, he really wants to prove it to everyone, violence will not solve anything. Please…some pony, stop this." She looks at the prince in fear and worry. "Blueblood!"

Due to the shoutings of the nobles and the effects of the sword starting to mess with his head, the prince was unable to even register Fluttershy’s voice and instead could only perceive the hate and anger everyone was aiming at him. 

Not even a single one is going to support me? But I…I thought I was really getting to them? What did I do wrong I…No! There is no time for that, just calm down. Stay focused

The Prince shakes his head, trying to clear his mind as both stallions await for Fancy’s signal. No one in the garden noticing the small fires coming from the castle as another battle inside was taking place. The changelings were finally able to get in to contact with the princess but for some reason could only hear yells and screams in their heads.

"Begin!"

It was Jet Set seized the initiative, exploiting the prince’s small distraction as he lashes out and lands the first strike. The leather and wood of the scabbard impacting with a dull thunk and a burst of pain for the prince but otherwise causing no lasting damage. The pain and surprise though made the prince lose his footing for a second as their swords clashed again. Locking into a bind and bringing the two stallions heads close enough to talk. "What is the matter, prince? Scared?" Jet Set taunted Blueblood with a smirk, his tone jovial.

"What happened to 'we were friends'?" The prince queries in response as he angrily forces Jet Set away and attempts to counter-attack, only for Jet to stop his advances with ease before spinning around, landing a clear buck to his chest. Once again forcing the prince back a couple of steps while holding his chest. "You said you wanted to build our friendship once more? Was that all just lie?" 

Jet Set chuckled and shook his head. "Oh Blueblood, hearing you say that is just simply hilarious. Did you honestly think for even a moment, that you have any real friends?" Jet struck again, the prince managed to dodge the blow, but it cost him his balance due to the unfamiliar weight of the sword, leaving him open for a fast slash on his side. "There is absolutely nopony in all of Equestria who doesn't hate your guts."

Ignoring the phantoms of pain throbbing in his body, the prince does his best to remain on guard, lifting his sword with a shaky hoof. His resolve and energy starting to waiver under the hard gaze of everyone looking at him with anger and disgust. "It stings, doesn't it?" Jet asks while lazily regarding his own sheathed and bound blade while taking his eyes off the prince as if he wasn't a threat. "Knowing the truth?" his eyes snapped up and focused with frightening clarity on the prince. Lunging forward the noble slashed away viciously, nearly hitting the prince’s throat before he was able to back away trying to gain some distance to breathe and come up with a plan of attack. But wherever Blueblood retreated to, Jet Set followed. Shifting his grip slightly the Noble changed tactics and launched a series of harrying thrusts, over and over and over, boxing the prince in until Blueblood was unable to effectively retreat and was forced to continuously parry, Jet Sets wide array of attacks from his current position of strength continued unabated. It was only a matter of time before one would land. "Knowing that despite your boost of confidence, your prideful attitude toward your lineage and your claims of being the best stallion that ever existed. You are nothing more than a coward and a hypocrite, it really hurts, right!?" His sword flickered through the prince's guard and found its mark. The prince could only let loose a strangled gasp of shock as the sword smashed into his sternum forcing the air from his lungs in an explosive huff. The prince collapsed to a knee struggling to breathe as Jet backs away, flourishing his weapon about to put on a show and continue to familiarize himself the marginal but noticeable added weight of the scabbard. 

Fancy Pants stepped in between the two combatants and waited to see if the prince would rise to continue while the audience cheered for Jet as he gloated in front of them.

"Do you see it, Canterlot? Our prince nothing but a weak and pathetic colt who's only concern is for bits and power, a corrupt ruler who doesn't care about trampling over his own citizens." 

That last comment hit home as the prince had a moment of clarity and started to picture Jet Set like his father. A fact that morphed his failing resolve and pain into growing and seething anger. He ignored the pain which suddenly did not matter as much now and stood once more nodding to Fancy Pants to indicate that he can still fight. Before pointing his sword at his opponents turned back, struck by a moment of inspiration and recalling his brief lessons in magic with Celestia.

The art of magic has 3 principles: Stamina, Focus and Memory, if you master all three, there is no spell you cannot cast. Always keep those rules in mind, and I’m sure there will be nothing you can’t do Blueblood.

Cocking his arm back he bellowed his opponent's name.

"…Jet Set!!!"

Taken off guard, the noble slowly turned to the prince in surprise only to hiss out in pain as a strike scored a deep gash on his chest. Uncomprehending, he looks from the prince to the rapidly healing wound on his torso and to the still sheathed blade in the prince's grasp several paces away. Looking back to the prince's eyes, he could see the prince looking at him with a glare, a glowing horn, and a smoking and blurred blade that just launched an air strike.

Focus magic can achieve a solid form, yet the effort needed to maintain it for extended periods is exhausting. But if I just keep it solid for just a brief moment…

Slowly low ringing began to fill the air rising in pitch as the glowing of the prince's horn intensified. "Don't you dare, turn your back on me! We weren't finished." The prince commanded as the ringing and glow reached an almost painful tone and brightness. Both of which fade slightly as the prince launches another air cutter, which the noble barely ducked out of the way of. 

"Aren't you going to say anything!?" Jet Set growls out to Fancy Pants in anger. His question was obvious. 

"The rules say to only use your sword, technically speaking he is still using it." Fancy pants responded with a dismissive shrug.

The prince then charged in, and this time when their swords collided, he poured magic into his weapon which then discharged into a wave of force that sent Jet Set flying back into the air. Recovering and following through, The prince launches another magical slash that found its mark on Jet Set’s back, opening a near bloodless but devastatingly deep cut as he smashed into the ground, rolling painfully over the wound twice before coming to a halt. 

"On your hoofs Jet Set! This is far from over!" The Prince commanded, his palpable rage cowing the violent audience to silence as they too were surprised by this dramatic shift of fortunes. 

What in Equestria is going on?! How come his spirit isn't broken yet? Jet Set asks his wife in disbelief through their link as he slowly gathers himself, hissing once again in pain at the searing pain on his back and gasping for a breath as he tries to stand up, Fancy keeping a close eye on him. 

You moron, all that gloating and boasting you were doing, it must have angered him so much that he overpowered and blocked out the spell. Upper Crust reprimands him through the link. If he remains this angry, he might turn the tables on you and win, you oaf!

Him? Turns the table on me? Oh honey, so far I was just playing around, and barely even fighting. He simply got the drop off me, but now. Now I will get serious Jet Set smirks, and after finally managing to stand up, both his and the prince's injuries healed entirely. He nods to Fancy Pants, who returns the gesture before stepping back allowing for the battle to continue.

"Ok your highness, no more mister nice guy." Jet taunts the prince as he charges his own horn. "Now we're going to fight for real."

Just like the prince did moments ago, Jet launched a series of magic slashes at Blueblood. while doing his best to avoid the furious return fire thrown out by the prince. Soon both stallions found themselves locked in a stalemate as the guards pour more energy into the shield spell around the arena to prevent any collateral damage as lances, waves, and blades of raw magic fly everywhere.

"A valiant effort, your highness." Jet Set manages to start monologuing as the fight continued. "Desperately trying to turn things to your favor, then again this isn't the first time you have been in this position, isn’t it?"

Taking a small pause, both stallions stop their attacks while at the same time as Jet Set regards the prince with a smirk, he knew that he had more energy than the prince did at the current moment, as the signs of fatigue were starting to show on the prince. "What would this be the seventh? Perhaps eight-time you have tried this stunt to gain the approval of Canterlot?"

"What?" The prince look at him confused, making the noble laugh as he starts to circle around him. 

"Oh, of course, feign ignorance. That's worked so well for you in the past. You do whatever you want, without any regard for the citizens of Canterlot. You Take all the credit for the achievements of others, without any speck of shame. And when some pony exposes you for the joke you are, you simply go and make a grand gesture of kindness to obtain forgiveness. Just like this party. the dream of us being equal is nothing but a ruse, so that we forget that it's because of you that all of Canterlot is in an economic crisis."

"Hey that's right, Blueblood is the reason a lot of ponies are now unemployed." A female voice call from the audience, as Jet continued. 

"It was you trying to do 'the right thing' and acting outside the law to arrest a pony that, even though he was corrupt was still keeping crime to a minimum."

"Yeah!" More voices agree. 

"What? He kidnaped a hero of Equestria and was doing more harm than good!" Blueblood tried to defend himself.

"Sure, that's what you would say. Try to spin so that it doesn't sound bad. But going so far as send your guards to beat them up and then making up a story about you actually fighting and winning against him? Do you take us all for fools!" Jet Set bellowed at him in anger, more and more ponies agreeing with him. 

"We all know you, Blueblood. You are nothing but a coward, a cheat and a weakling." His horn starts to charge once more. "But if you really want us to buy it again. Maybe you should have learned how to fight!" To the prince’s surprise Jet Set set his own scabbard on fire. The arcane fire glowing eerily in the night. "Or better yet, show us! Show us exactly how you beat Fort Knox! Let us see how long you last without your precious guards to defend you!”

Striding forwards into striking distance once more, the two stallions lock swords once again, but with the added weight and the increasing temperature, the prince soon knelt as Jet keep adding pressure forcing the flaming blade ever closer. “Not so mighty now, eh?”

Jet jumps back leaving the prince room to fire another burst of magic but after he swinging his sword, Jet Set rushed in and trapped the princes sword arm, moving it out of the way so he can strike the princes now unguarded chest, press the blade down as the arcane fire seared into the princes flesh. The prince cried out in agony only to hear a few words whispered in his ear. 

“Feel the heat prince” Spinning in place, Jet Set bucked Blueblood away. Landing hard the prince held his chest in pain while curling into a ball.

"Fancy, I beg you, please stop this!" Fluttershy pleaded with him once more, tears in her eyes. Unable to continue watching brutal display. He simply shook his head. "Jet Set is still only using his sword. The duel will continue." He informs Fluttershy even though it was starting to get hard to watch.

"You heard him milady." Jet Set tells Fluttershy with a slightly condescending smirk. "The fight is still far from over." He then looks to the coughing and bleeding prince that was trying his best to stand up, only to be met with wave after wave of fire strikes from Jet Set. 

“And where is your bravado now, Blueblood? Your stance is horrible” He struck at the prince's legs, causing him to stumble "Your Guard is a joke” He jabbed the prince once more in the chest, this time dangerously close to Blueblood throat. “Your parries are ill-timed and slow like a snail” He feinted the prince with an attack to provoke a reaction only to hit him with a backslash. 

“At least give me a challenge” He shrugged with a chuckle before looking at the audience again “What do you say Canterlot? Is he pathetic or what? Do you really think someone like him could possibly stand a chance against Fort Knox?”

“No!” Was the overwhelming response he received as Jet continued to gloat and the prince try to recover from the barrage of attacks.

Come on…there must be something anything I can do! What else do I know? I…The teleportation spell? But I still haven’t mastered it, I can’t fight with half a spell.

It was at that moment that the prince got an idea.

Or can I?

"There are still more crimes you need to answer for!" Jet finally turns to look at him once the prince recovers.

" For the misery, he inflicts on millions!" The unicorn launched another wave of magic slashes that the prince who barely manage to defend using a small shield that took the bulk of the attack but did reach his hoofs.

“For the crimes that have gone unpunished” He ignited the sword again closed to melee range once more press the blade against the princes letting the heat lick his stamina away.

"And for the tears he makes our princesses…" He recovered his blade to attack again the strike was about to make contact but continued on fading through the prince's chest and out the other side with no effect. Blueblood, exhausted and bloody as he was, somehow found the strength to smirk at him while taking the time to look down at the sheathed blade that was passing through his chest. the two stallions stood and stared at this new development for a moment “…what?”

“Confused?” Sidestepping the prince managed to deliver a magic slash to Jet Set's side point blank, sending Jet Set flying and screaming in pain. The prince sank down to kneel from exhaustion while regarding Jet Set with that same goofy smirk, which was growing into a smile “I still…have more to offer, Jet Set.” 

“You little…, don’t get cocky with me!” Jet unleashed a fury of air slash, but the prince passed through all of them like a ghost as he rushed in to capitalize on this change of fortune, Jet tried to block the incoming strike but the sword passed by his defense like mist. For a second Jet Set felt fear as the sword continued on its path towards his heart before flinching as the prince spin around and bucked him on the chest hitting him against the magical barrier. 

Jet recovered and tried to counter, but none of his attacks seemed to be landing correctly. Little by little, the prince was gaining ground again. 

Breathing heavenly both stallions paused to recover their energy, Neither of the two duelists dropped their glares. 

You are losing Upper Crust growled at her husband over their link.

No I’m not! He argued back.

Then explain what is happening? How is he getting the upper hoof on you?!

If you let me think I might be able to think of something! What he is doing it looks familiar, almost like…

“You really don’t understand anything about magic don’t you Blueblood?” Jet asks with some anger. “I finally get what you are trying to do, its the same principle behind the teleportation spell, surround yourself with magic, turn intangible and direct yourself to a destination” He list “But you are just doing half the process.”

“Half is all I need” The prince answers with a smile “Plus do you know how hard is to learn that spell?”

Jet looks at Fancy Pants who merely shakes his head in the negative “He is using it to dodge, I allow it” He informs, making Jet to grumble, who then looks at the prince before smirking when noticing that he didn’t seem to have much energy left on him. 

“Tell me prince, how much power do you have left?” He casually calls out while lifting his sword and igniting it once more “Because I can keep this up for a long time.”

The prince ignored Jet Sets barbs and kept attacking. Yet his movements start getting slower and more and more predictable as Jet Set goes back to toying with him. 

“Just admit it Blueblood this is over!” Catching him off guard Jet manage to strike prince in the chest. Dropping him to the ground hard. 

Coughing some more blood the prince tried to stand up, but Jet Set struck again, sending him flying until he slammed into the wall of force surrounding the arena. Blueblood's breath left his lungs once again as he slid to the ground limply, like a puppet with its strings cut. 



“NO!” Fluttershy screamed in horror at the callous display. Some guards even refusing to look on as the prince struggled to stand once more, desperately searching within for some last gasp of strength and will to bring to bear, even while feeling pathetic, tired, battered and with the mocking laughter of the crowd echoing in his ears, Jet was the loudest among them. The prince had only barely managed to struggle to his knees as he heard the end of the fight approach. Blueblood looked up as Jet Set closed, determined to finish the fight with the small victory of not breaking. 

Jet Set smiled in satisfaction as he regarded the prince flounder for a moment before advancing with deliberate steps, flourishing his blade once more. Fully intending to give the crowd a show as he finished the fight, he had only made it three steps though when Fancy Pants stepped in between the two combatants, leveling a distainful glare directed at Jet Set. 

Stopping in his tracks the noble mind was marred with a confused and enraged snarl for only a second before it settled into the smirk that he had been wearing throughout the fight. “Seems we are done here, don’t you think Fancy? Just end this charade already, this is just boring now” Jet complained loudly as he stepped back, while resting his weapon on his shoulder. 

Fancy could only sigh and look back at the prince in pity as he fought his hardest just to stand up. So it was with a heavy heart he raised his hoof. “The winner is…”

“N…no!” The prince managed to utter catching both him and Jet Set by surprise. Using his sword for support, he finally managed to stagger drunkenly to his hooves and glare at Jet Set.”It's…not... over yet.”

“Oh? Isn’t it?” Jet Set asks with a chuckle as he slowly approached the prince neatly sidestepping Fancy Pants as he went until he and the prince were face to face. “Then, by all means, prince, do continue. In fact as an act of kindness. I will let you have the next attack.”

Jet Set spread his hooves wide in a mockingly inviting manner, in preparation for the prince while Blueblood continued to glare at his opponent. All while still hearing the laughter in his head and all around him.

I can’t lose…I can’t…if I do…if I lost…my family…my home…I can’t lose everything again.

Tears began to fill his eyes as with a grunt of pain and a shaky hoof, he managed to lift his sword. His opponent remained still, unimpressed and nonplussed.

“Go ahead, I’m waiting…” He taunts the prince once more. 

Mustering all the energy left in him, Blueblood brings down his sword down on to Jet Set's chest… and the sheathed blade glances off to the side as the prince collapses to the ground. 

Aunties…cousin…Canterlot…I’m so sorry!

The prince's thoughts danced around with the jeers of the crowd in his mind as the ground rose to meet his face.

Cheers are heard once he hit the floor.

Immediately after the shield spell was lifted, Fluttershy rushed to the prince's side and lift his head in worry. 

“Blueblood! Are you ok?” She timidly asks. The prince just trembled and cried, refusing to open his eyes as he continued to chant ‘I’m sorry’ over and over. 

Fluttershy turned a rage-filled gaze to Jet Set as he just laughed and pointed at the display “That look fits you, Prince, finally put in your place!”

“You are laughing at his pain?” Fluttershy asked him in astonishment, “What is wrong with you…you…you big meany!” She calls him, but Jet Set simply ignored her and instead turned to Fancy Pants. 

“Go ahead Fancy Pants. End this.”

With closed eyes and a pained breath, the noble simply raised a hoof into the air before pointing to the standing duelist. “The winner…is Jet Set. The Prince Blueblood, is no more” He announced making the crowd cheer in glee for a second time.
> Aftershock (BS and RB)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

At that same time that the duel was occurring, chaos was raining down in Canterlot, as Amber kept spreading anger everywhere all the while, chasing the mare that was keeping her rage burning bright.

"For pony's sake Amber, I know we might have our differences, but I'm still a civilian that hasn't broken any laws!" Scarlet tried to defend herself as she dodged yet another attack from Amber, her rage had made her unstoppable yet, sloppy and uncoordinated in her attacks. Which was the only reason Scarlet yet breathed. Her dress was ripped to pieces, the makeup she was wearing smeared on her face, and her mask destroyed long ago as a result of the fight.

"It all your fault, you're trying to kill the prince" Amber responded as she charges her horn again.

"Kill him?!" Scarlet turns to her in indignation "I wouldn't hurt a single hair of that golden mane!" She defended herself.

"Lies!" Amber yelled as she unleashed a series of consecutive magic blasts that would have hit Scarlet if Pinkie hadn't tackled her out of the way.

"Pinkie?" Scarlet look at her savior with a confused expression. "Please tell me you are not here to rip me in half too."

"Nope, I'm here to save…duck!" Pinkie pushes Amber head down, just before a spear would have impaled it.

"What are you doing Pinkie! She is our enemy!" Amber bellows at her.

"Nope, she is just weird" Pinkie pulled her party cannon and startled Amber with a confetti shot, to make her escape with Scarlet as they enter a random room, and lock the doors behind them.

"Ok, we should be fine for a bit now."

"Good, in that case, care to explain what is going on?" Scarlet asked her in exasperation while trying to recover her breath, before remembering something and glaring at the pink mare, "And what did you mean by me being weird?"

"It ok, weird is good. It means you are funny" Pinkie tells her with a chuckle. "Anyway long story short, a meany pants pony tried to kill Blueblood, the guards cornered him but then he spat fire and run away and turns out, his fire makes any pony that touches it, extra extra grumpy" Pinkie explained at a fast pace, which only served to confuse Amber even more.

"What?"

At that moment Amber starts to buck on the door, trying to smash it down. Pinkie and Scarlet held the door as much as possible. "Amber is not thinking clearly and it's just lashing out at everyone that she sees, oh and you should avoid the fire she is launching. If you touch it, you will get angry too." Pinkie resumes explaining.

"Ok that explains her behavior, but why is she chasing me?"

Pinkie looks at Scarlet with a neutral expression "Oh right."

The doors finally give in, and Amber pin both mares against the ground. Acting like a mad dog keeps her gaze on Amber with fury on her eyes. "Amber no, you are not thinking clearly! Just count to ten" Pinkie try to reason with her.

"Enough! I will rid Equestria of this plague once and for all!" She shrieks at Pinkie before charging his horn even more. "Die" Once fully charged, Amber pointed her horn at Scarlet and was about to shoot when a magic blast hit her chest and pinned her against the wall before restraining her in a blue shield spell.

"Oh dear! Are you two ok?" A concerned Cadence appeared from behind them and removes the doors before helping both mares stand up.

As they recovered, the mares saw as both Princess Celestia and Cadence as well as Shining Armor standing in the middle of the room after teleporting inside, Shining Armor, in particular, was focusing his magic on containing Amber as she keeps thrashing around.

"Well talk about dramatic entrances" Scarlet breathed a sigh of relief before looking to Celestia "You have no idea how happy I'm too seeing you, princess."

To her confusion, the princess just keep looking at her with a neutral expression before turning her gaze to Shining Armor, something that grabs Cadence attention "What the status, Shining Armor?"

"It just as we feared, princess," He sighs and looks back at her. "She is infected by the anger spectrum. Even if we used our teleportation to reach its source I'm afraid we are too late, it spreading already and at a breakneck rate. The assassin definitely is familiar with crystal ponies magic…as well as the forbidden emotion." He informed the group in sadness.

"Well duh, he is a crystal pony after all" Pinkie voice her opinion before getting confused "Wait, crystal ponies can use magic like that?" She wondered out loud to the group as Cadence checked both mares for any sign of burn marks before smiling when she didn't find any.

"It's a long story, for now, we need to contain the infected ponies before they spread the rage even more and…" In that second the mental link with the princess is reconnected, and she heard the voices of the changelings all at once, screaming at her,

Princess!… Where are you?! Things are bad…they are really bad! You need to come here…quickly!

"What?" The princess asks trying to understand what they were saying

Prince Blueblood…he is in trouble!… Come to the gardens…now!

"Blueblood?" She asks out loud as her eyes widen, Cadence, and Scarlet too growing concerned.

Shaking her head she looks back at the rest "Shining, Cadence, contain this as fast as possible and then, meet me in the gardens, my nephew needs me!" She charges her horn before either can voice their opinion.

"Oh no you don't, I'm coming too!" Scarlet proclaims and grabs Celestia hoof. The Princess tries to shake her off, but it was already too late as both mares are teleported to the royal garden where they cry out in shock at the spectacle holding the attention of the audience.

"What is the meaning of all this?!" To everyone's surprise, even Celestia's, it was Scarlet who yells at everyone in anger once she is able to grasp what she sees. The prince lying on the ground breathing heavenly and holding a golden sword while Fluttershy cradles his body. Not far from the two was none other than Jet Set. Holding another sword and looking at the princess in surprise.

The commotion managed to rouse the prince a little bit as he with no small amount of effort, managed to shift his gaze to see his aunt and Scarlet fast approaching the two.

"Ah, Princess Celestia so good for you to join us…unless, of course, you aren't the real…" Jet started to speak. Yet the princess wouldn't have any of that.

"SILENCE!" Using her own Canterlot voice, she proved to be the real princess Celestia as she looks at the gathering guards with some degree of anger, and confusion into why didn't they protect her nephew.

"I believe that Ms. Lips asked you a question, and I would have it answered as well. I want you to explain to me what exactly is going on here. You will explain why my nephew was beaten up, on the ground…and you will explain why the royal guards did not intervene" She ordered while maintaining a glare that burned with all the intensity of a solar flare. Rooting everyone in place, making all the guards gulp in fear

"Well, dear princess if you let me explain…" Upper Crust begins with a smile, but Fancy Pants interrupts her, not trusting her or her husband one bit after this display that they had put on. "I would prefer it if I explained things." He flatly states, dismissing her with a glare to which Upper Crust rolled her eyes and gestures for him to continue.

Fancy then looked back at the princess who was looking at him expectantly "There is no reason for you to punish your guard's princess, what happened here was a duel that had the consent of both parties involved" He began to explain.

"What?!" Both Scarlet and the princess exclaim in surprise. Catching the attention of the monarch and the prince who look at her in confusion, as Scarlet stalked angrily up to Jet Set.

"What did you do?"

"I imparted justice" He answers before walking past her and toward the Princess with his wife without letting her speak. "Princess Celestia, although we understand why you haven't taken actions about your nephew's behavior. We, the citizens of Canterlot, just could not wait any longer." Upper Crust tells her with sadness.

"Oh? And just what were you waiting for?" Celestia asks calmy, yet her voice was cold and neutral.

Jet Set retrieves a copy of the list of crimes of Blueblood and passes it to her. On the surface, the princess remained calm and composed, but beneath her facade, the feelings of worry and fright began to fester. She was afraid she knew what was developing as well as furious for what these two just did to her nephew.

"The law is more than clear princess Celestia, Blueblood broke the law, and as such, I, as a graduate of your school, and a noble stallion of high status, have the right to issue retribution. Which I did."

The princess sighed and put the paper down before looking at both nobles before her "While I agree that it is within your right to issue a challenge for this. I was not aware of nor approved of this course of action." She informs them with a glare. "As such, this was an unsanctioned duel, and I will NOT acknowledge it nor will I validate its outcome."

"You can't do this to us, princess!" A voice in the distance tells her.

"What?" The princess questioned, genuinely confused by that response as she looks around, all around the voices keep complaining.

"Jet Set was right, you simply keep hiding the prince behind your tail."

"The prince is not above the law."

"Blueblood is not fit to be called prince."

"That brat has made our lives miserable, he got what he deserved, it not fair that you want to pardon him now."

"Order!" The princess commanded yet everyone seemed to be on even more on edge and kept arguing with her.

"So much anger, so much tension" Upper Crust coyly voiced her opinion with a theatrical sigh as she looks at the princess "Please princess, is he really worth the trouble? I understand that is your relative, but how can your kingdom trust its rulers when they put their own family above the people and the law?" Upper Crust simperingly tells the princess.

Anyone else listening in on the conversation would think she was just being reasonable and understanding, but Celestia could read her like a book and what she saw made her blood boil she could see the tiny twitch of a smirk on the mares face in front of her. They both knew that Celestia was currently cornered.

The prince eyes slowly widened as he continued to watch on as everything unraveled around him and slowly putting the pieces together, finally understood what Jet Set's and Upper Crust's end goal was.

Not only did they want to strip him of his title, but they also were trying to completely destroy his relationship with the kingdom and his image as a prince. Even worse they were using him as a pawn in a game against his aunts looking to force them into a position where, if they defend or help him. The faith and trust that the citizens have in the crown would forever be lost.

Oh dear god, I'm an idiot! Those two set me up, and I took the bait, hook, and sinker. Now, if my aunts defend me and revoke the outcome of the duel. Canterlot will spit apart, maybe it could even result in a civil war, and if that happens…the Windigoes!

Blueblood looked back the couple, Jet Set caught his eye and put on that insufferable grin he had been wearing the entire night. He already knew what the prince was thinking and just wanted to twist the knife slightly more.

Damn it! DAMN IT! He knew it! He knew it, and he knows that I need to take the fall because if I don't…it will cause irreparable damage to Canterlot, maybe even to all of Equestria! The prince rants in rage internally as he comes to the realization that there is only one thing he can do.

Curse you Jet Set. And damn you to hell! I don't know how or when but I swear I will make you pay for this! Feeling the princes discomfort and looking at his pained face, Fluttershy tightened her hug, bringing him crashing back to reality and tried to calm him down with a small yet hopeful smile, though the guilt and the effects of the sword still in place made him believe that Fluttershy was glaring at him in disappointment.

She gets confused when the prince just looks down in shame and nod before standing up and lightly pushing her away "I understand, don't worry I will fix this" He mumbles to her, which just further confused the pegasus as he takes some steps forward.

"Blueblood what are you…"

"Everypony just, please…SHUT UP!" The prince roars out at the top of his lungs, hoping to stun the audience into silence and capture their attention away from the game being played between the nobles and the Princess. It has the desired effect, and everyone turned their attention to him. After taking some deep breaths the prince address the audience in anger. "I might be a lot of things, but a coward will not be one of them anymore, I'm guilty, and as such I will face my punishment head on!"

The prince takes everyone by surprise when he grabs his mane and uses his sword to cut it out in one swing before raising it into the air for everyone to see while tossing the sword into the ground. The princess even gasping in shock as she understood what the action meant.

"Take this as proof of my resolve Canterlot. From this moment on, I Blueblood, formally abdicate from my title as prince and will become…a Ronin" He tells them in shame and his head low.

"Ronin?" Scarlet asks confused by the name.

"It means a pony without a home or purpose, he…he is exiling himself" Princess Celestia explains as she shakes her head in sadness and anger at this outcome, as her mask starts to break, and lets some of her emotions out. "And that is something I will not accept" She goes to him and grab the prince using both of her wings "I have already suffered the pain of banishing a loved one, I will not do it again!" She tells everyone present.

"Auntie…please you have too let me go, it’s the only way. Canterlot has spoken." The prince argues back and tries to pull away from her grasp, but the princess refuses to let him go as she strengthens the hug, not only that but he soon finds another set of hoof hugging him from behind. "Then Canterlot is wrong, Blueblood. This isn't fair, you are a good pony, there must be another way!"

"I wish there were Ms. Shy" Upper Crust chimes in "But unfortunately there is not, the duel was fair and legal, so now the ex-prince needs to get out, those are the rules."

Everyone cheers in agreement and Celestia angered to the point where she was considering immolating the mare where she stood maintained her hug and narrowed her eyes, considering. She had almost made a decision when Scarlet unexpectedly came to their rescue.

"Legal? Legal you say, dear? Yes, I'm afraid I will have to call you on that one." She speaks earning the confusion of everyone present. "Legal or not, you put the PRINCE of Equestria," Emphasizing the title while glaring at Jet Set "Into an unfair position and without the princesses consent or presence during the duel. Legal though it may be, and that is one for the courts to decide, it was quite shady and horribly unfair at best and downright dishonorable and villainous at worst." Her words finding home with the audience as they once again start to mumble at the weight what she was saying, yet she wasn't done.

"Just look at ourself Canterlot, if we accept this duel, then we will be no better than the prince in his old days! Just brats throwing a tantrum, and abusing our rights without any consideration!"

The audience began to feel ashamed and looked down. Smiling nervously Upper Crust approach Scarlet slightly scared. "Scarlet…what are you doing?!" She harshly whispers into her ear, yet the mare in question just glares at her. "I will deal with you two crowbars later!" She whispers back "For now, let me fix the mess you two idiots made!"

She then takes a step toward the royals, the princess still unsure of her actions, covers her nephew in a protective matter. "I'm not suggesting, a revoke of this duel, what happened is already in the past. But I'm saying the prince deserves a second chance, just like we have given to our princess Luna, to Discord, even to the changeling race! Aren't we or are we not the citizens of Equestria who's pride and joy lays in our values of friendship and harmony!"

"Yeah" The audience cheers in agreement.

"Aren't we above pity grudges and lingering anger?"

"Yeah"

"And does anyone here really have the heart to break a family who has nothing but the purest of love for one another?"

"No"

The royal family and Fluttershy slowly end their hug as they all see Scarlet speaking, confused yet happy for what she was doing.

"Then its decided, the prince will get the right for a rematch to get his title back and with it, the pardon from all of his past crimes."

"Yes!" Everyone cheered in agreement and Celestia couldn't be happier as she silently nods her thanks Scarlet for her intervention, yet in the back of her head she still didn't trust her completely and was growing more and more confused in why was she helping them.

"Wait" Upper Crust try to speak again "Are we really going to simply pardon everything the prince has done? Just like that. Think ponies, because of him, we all are going to go to harsh times. Our economy suffered a harsh blow, maybe we will never recover!" She yells back, "I say that if we really are going to give him a second chance, the least he could do, is clean up all of his own mess first, what say you Canterlot? I think its time the prince got a taste of humility and owned up for all of his mistakes, then and only then will we agree to a rematch."

"That list is extremely long, and some of the problems can't be fixed overnight, it will take him years to complete it" Celestia voiced her concern to which the noble, shrugged "All of them were his doing princess, and because how hard they are. I say that they are fair." She then points a hoof at Celestia. "And he can't have any royal or noble assistance during them, he made all these problems, its only fair for him to solve them alone."

She tells them before looking at Fluttershy "That includes no elements of harmony, no living arrangements on the castle" She then look at Scarlet too with a smirk "And no living with any noble."

She remains neutral, but the princess could detect some fury coming from the mare from that remark.

"You are telling me to throw my nephew out in the street, in the middle of the night without anything on him, and ask him for the impossible?" The princess asks as her anger rise again. "I will never agree to…"

"No" The prince interrupt her "It more than fair,"

"What?! No, Blueblood please don't" Celestia tried to stop him but, he simply raises his hoof to silence her response, before looking at her with a smile, it was forced and painful, but he at least wanted to ease some of her pain. Even if it was only a little, 

"Don't worry au…princess" Blueblood called her by the title, breaking her heart from hearing him using the honorifics "I will be fine" He then look at Upper Crust, and Jet set with determination "I agree to your terms, until I repay my debt, I will not issue a rematch for my titel back."

"Then its decided, and until you do, you will be known as The Blue Ronin." Jet Set claims in victory "Now get out of my castle!"

Celestia eyes wide before snapping to the couple with a glare that could melt icebergs, making them flinch and take a step back as the air around them heated up almost imperceptibly. "YOUR... Castle?" Before she could vent her wrath upon the two, the prince surprised her with one unexpected hug that managed to calm her down somehow. "Just one last act before my departure, princess, maybe it was short but…thanks for everything."

"Blueblood" The princess' heart cracked once more at the emotion as she tries to hug him back "Thank you…and goodbye."

Before she could complete the gesture, the prince was gone, leaving no trace behind, surprising everyone in the garden. "Ah…what just happened?" Fluttershy asks still dumbfounded by that. Celestia holds her tears and keeps her head low.

"I WANT EVERYPONY WHO DOES NOT WORK OR LIVE HERE TO LEAVE THE ROYAL GROUNDS THIS VERY INSTANT!!! NOW!!!" Using her Canterlot voice, everyone fled as fast as their wings, hoofs or horns could carry them.

It was only when the princess was alone that she let her mask go. It was when there was nothing but the light of the moon in the room where she collapsed and yells at the top of her lungs in rage and sadness as she lays in the ground and openly cries. She could feel the hoof of Fluttershy petting her mane in sorrow, she never left, the princess knew it, but she couldn't care less. History had just repeated itself, and once more she lost a family member.
> Expose Betrayal, Hidden Support (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Silence reigned over the castle as the commotion and hustle of the crowd slowly but surely died down with everyone gone. The guards managed to do a quick job of gathering and restraining any remaining ponies that were corrupted by anger unleashed earlier so that Princess Cadence and Shining Armor could neutralize the threat it posed. 

Princess Celestia remained quiet throughout the whole ordeal and just watched as her citizens left the palace, slightly dazed and confused with all that had happened. One part of her was happy everyone was safe, though, in the back of her head, a smoldering, silky voice whispered, tempting the monarch to give in to her rage and seek vengeance. She didn't even know where to aim it. The noble couple that forced her to exile a family member? Or at her own citizens that laughed and jeered while it happened? All throughout this, Fluttershy remained. Always by her side, noticing the princesses distress and refusing to leave, her kindness showing strong.

"Auntie?" Cadence’s voice managed to break her from her blackening thoughts and, with a shake of her head, the solar princess looked to her niece with a small smile. "Yes, Cadence?"

"I said that that was the last one." She points at the pony Shining Armor was finishing curing. The last pony was covered in a blue aura that Shining was emitting not from his horn, but from his body. Manipulating it and spreading it on the victim, killing the fire in the process and calming the enraged noble.

"I see…that is great news. I thank you both." The princess thanked both ponies as the noble was escorted out of the castle. This time Shining also noted how the princess sounded distant and slightly cold, the same with Cadence as she eyed her aunt with a hint of worry. 

"Aunty I know how you must be feeling. I'm also worried for Bluey but…"

"Oh do you?" Celestia, all of a sudden, transfixed Cadence with an angry glare. "Do tell me, dearest niece, when was it last, that you were forced to banish a loved one? When? When were you forced to spend a thousand years on the brink of insanity from the isolation of being the last of your kind?" Celestia slowly stalked up to her niece all the while maintaining her glare. "When, did you see all of your family erased from existence by the passage of time?!"

"Princess stop!" Fluttershy called out and tried to intervene by getting in between the two, fearing for Cadence, yet Celestia simply used a levitation spell that lifts her in the air and out of the way with no effort. Barely even altering her stride.

"Auntie, please calm down!" Cadence calls in fear as she slowly backs away, yet Celestia didn’t seem to be listening. Both royals gasp in surprise when they notice a burn mark spreading across her chest as her eyes begin to turn white from her anger. "Auntie you are infected! You need help!"

"Don't tell me what I need to do! I'm sick and tired of everypony thinking they can bend, twist and manipulate MY laws as to suit their whims! Perhaps this is why King Sombra took a different approach...You know what? Maybe he had a point if it means that I can keep my family intact. Maybe I should rule Equestria with an iron…"

The mane of Celestia was starting to ignite, and her teeth were in the process of turning to fangs before a spell hit the back of her head, turning her back to normal as she fell asleep on the ground, and Fluttershy promptly dropped with a thud. 

Looking up, everyone found Luna on the entrance with Pinkie by her side and a smoking horn. "Seems like I arrived just in time," She told the group, as Pinkie and Fluttershy rushed to assist Princess Celestia who continued to sleep.

"What happened?" Pinkie queried, confused and worried.

"It seems Aunt Celestia was infected by the same pony that caused all of this mess in the first place." Cadence explained. "Her centuries of controlling her emotions was probably why it took so long for the magic to take effect. Honestly, with everything that happened, I'm rather surprised she managed to remain this calm for this long. Shining? Do you think you could…?"

"Already on it, dear" Shining answered and got to work in purging the rage out of the princess’s system as Cadence approached her other aunt. "Aunt Luna, Blueblood, he…"

Before she can continue, Luna raised her hoof for silence. "I'm aware, fair Cadence, Pinkie filled me in regarding the incidents, and I assure you, measures are being put in place as we speak. More so with a killer still on the loose" Luna explained. 

"He escaped?" Pinkie stared at the princess in shock as she simply nodded. 

"It appears my tracking skills have dulled more than I anticipated, but do not fret. My best tracker picked up the trail and they are still in hot pursuit. We will catch him. While he remains at large, another platoon will bring my nephew back, and I will grant him sanctuary within the royal palace. Equestria have mercy upon anyone that tries to stop me. For, I will not." Luna threatened quietly before turning her attention to Fluttershy. "But for now, I would like to know exactly what the events leading up to my nephew’s banishment were, and how they happened." Her eyes flashed white as a glare started to form on her face. "I need to be as well informed as I possibly can be, so I might know just how long I will be tormenting the dreams of those that hurt my family."

"I would like to hear that story too," Cadence tells, remaining neutral yet she too was feeling deep anger caused by the whole ordeal. 

Fluttershy nodded, and for the first time in probably all of her life, she didn't get worried or scared for the well being of another as she met Luna's gaze with a fierce determination twinkling in her own eyes. "I will tell you, everything princess.” 

At the moment in the streets of Canterlot

After practically being kicked out of the castle, both Jet Set and Upper Crust retired for the night to their mansion, grumbling about their bittersweet victory. 

"Damn it! We were so close, we had all of Canterlots support behind us. If only Scarlet hadn't opened her mouth!" Jet Set complained before his wife interrupted him. 

"Let us not think about what already happened dear, besides I think her interference is a blessing in disguise," Upper argued back, "Perhaps we were starting to bite off more than we could chew anyway." She reasoned with him as they continued walking towards their home. "Besides, this minor set back doesn't change a single thing."

"Really?" The voice of Scarlet Lips catches their attention as they see the mare in question waiting for the two at the front gate to their house glaring at them. "Because from what I see, what you did was anything BUT what we had planned on the first place!" She snarled at the two in anger. 

"Ah Scarlet, I was wondering where you went.” Upper Crust addressed her friend before casting a small glare at her in return. "I have to say, it is brave for you to confront the friends you just betrayed."

"Don't you dare try spin this around Upper Crust!" She points at her with an accusing hoof. "You went off script, and you know it! The plan was for you to convince the prince into living among the people TEMPORARILY as he pays his crimes at his own pace, not accuse him of it!"

"Why play as a pawn when you can be a king. Besides the original plan was garbage!" Jet Set cries out in anger at her making Scarlet gasp before looking at him in a fury. "How dare you!"

"NO! How dare YOU! Ruining our plan Scarlet!" Jet continued approaching the mare. "That Buffon has no place being a prince, I'm a better stallion than him, I'm a better magician than him, I can gain the love of all Canterlot faster than he can, I'm more than he would ever be! I should be the prince. not him, I!" He yells at her. "And I could have gotten it all in one swift move by the end of the night if you hadn't interfered!"

Scarlet just look at him with a neutral expression. "Are you done?" She inquires with a bored tone and a raised eyebrow. 

Jet only huffed in response. "Don't you see? You could have had anything! Your book could have had the perfect twist! The corrupt prince dethroned and the handsome, better fit and rightful noble becoming the new ruler." He picks up her hoof. "The three of us could have gotten our perfect ending. You could even have your wish of being with a prince, a much better prince that what you originally…"

Scarlet at that moment slaps him. "Don't you DARE rewrite my story, Jet Set! And don't go around spitting nonsense about happy endings, like you know any better. Unlike your pathetic and weak ideas of a "better story." Mine are works of art that respects its target audience and is worth the bits!" 

She then turned to regard Upper Crust. "And unlike yours, my plan would have worked."

"My my, aren't we confident?" Upper Crust chuckled dangerously as she approached. "What makes you so sure that our plan will fail dear? The enchanted sword? Any pony will think either you or the crown planted the evidence. The Changelings? We have been spreading rumors about them housing Chrysalis for weeks now. By the time they get the press off their backs, anything they try will be pointless. The Princesses? You would be surprised how many rulers of other countries would love to have a chat with our rulers when they are in distress, and offer their support as they stumble into each other and fill their desks with impossible to refuse meetings. By Tartarus, even if by some miracle the princesses managed to arrest us, we will become martyrs and will be released the same day to avoid escalating the conflict!" She smirked at Scarlet.

"We played our cards in such a matter that the princesses can't touch us, not without betraying the trust of their kingdom at least. Face it, Scarlet, we planned for everything, the pride and honor of all of Equestria are supporting us, dear. We are officially above the law."

"No pony is above the law Upper Crust," Scarlet remarks back before moving to the side and starts to walk away. "And you are not going to get away with this. I'm gonna make sure of that!"

"Oh really? And what are you going to do? Help the princesses?" Upper Crust laughs "Go ahead and try. Let us see how our monarchs react to the mare responsible for all this in the first place when she approached them and asked if she could help. I'd love to see how well that plays out."

Jet Set at that moment gets in front of Scarlet with a worried expression. "Don't do it Scarlet, at best they will put you on a dungeon and at worst no pony will ever find your body" She pleads her "Please, stay with us instead, just think about it. The three of us in a herd. We could be uns…"

"Save it!" Scarlet stopped him by raising her hoof. "That! That right there is the reason that I didn't even take a second a glance at you Jet Set. Perhaps you have a nice face, but you don't know a single THING about what real love is all about, and you hurt my future coltfriend!" She tells him with a hurt expression before hardening, now with eyes that could melt holes in solid steel. Jet Set gulped as the irate mare leaned forward. 

"You underestimated what my stallion is really capable of doing. Mark my words, Jet Set. He will return. He will get payback for what you did. And trust me, as soon as he is done scraping you off of his hoof…I will be next in line." She whispered in his ear the last part before marching off. 

"F-Fine! Go ahead, leave! See if I care! Enjoy being a garden ornament…or a spending a lifetime in a cell with no windows! Or whatever the princesses will do to you. Just know, you could have had the chance to be with a REAL prince, and you blew it!" Jet Set yells at her, though Scarlet pointedly ignored him as she trotted away.

Once she is gone. The stallion looked back at his wife. "There is nothing to fear, right dear? There is no way that idiot will come back, right?"

"Oh please honey, don't be paranoid. You did a magnificent job breaking the spirit of that brat into a million pieces. Even if someone offers him any kindness, Blueblood will refuse it out of pride and shame before running away. He is probably leaving Canterlot and hiding somewhere as we speak; no one will ever see his face ever again" Upper Crust assures him with all the confidence she could muster.

Meanwhile 

Without any direction or place in mind, the former prince kept wandering aimlessly until he found himself in the heart of a dense and dark forest. He didn't know how long he had been walking, nor did he care, as he kept trudging along with his head held low. Reliving the events that brought him into his current situation, getting angrier as the image of Jet Set with that smug smile kept appearing, over and over and over again.

What have I done? I somehow managed to obtain what others could only dream about and had a second chance. A family that loved me, a comfortable life, friendship…even an opportunity to achieve my dream of being a hero. And now, I've lost it again. Once again I'm nothing but a wanderer. AND it is all his fault!

As he shakes his head in anger, the ex-prince trips over his own hoof and fall face first into a pile of mud. Shaking in rage, he slowly lifts his head and found a frog croaking in front of him without a care in the world. The ex-prince sighed and looked at the frog with a neutral expression. "Sure, why not? What else could go wrong?"

As if to answer his question a thunderstorm erupts, drenching him in seconds as rain fell like there was no tomorrow. He remained calm for a bit and took a deep breath before roaring out at the sky in time for a clap of thunder to be heard. Stripping off his clothes, the ex-prince started to punch the puddle of mudd repeatedly, imagining it to be the face of Jet Set.

The ex-prince stops with a startled whinny once he heard a chuckle not too far from him. Looking to his left, he saw an ancient, apparently blind earth pony mare sitting on a log next to a bonfire. Her fur was white, and her mane and tail were complete gray from age. She was using a sheet secured between two trees to protect her from the rain. She also had a simple gray poncho to cover her torso, a cane lay resting next to her in the ground. "I think the mud learned its lesson, sonny."

Blueblood only grumbled and look away. "What do you care?" He angrily replied as he hugged himself in frustration. "Mind your own business grandma." 

"My, my such a dangerous wrath you have in you." Blueblood could hear the mare approaching him while still laughing at him. "Didn't your parents ever teach you not to run around with fire?"

Blueblood trembled in rage before turning around, fully intent on lashing out again. "What do you know about my fa…" Before the Ronnie could process what was happening, at breakneck speed, the mare closed and tapped his chest with her cane. Somehow, at that moment, the fiery rage burning within his chest was gone. Ripped out like an old piece of paper from a book. "There, all better now."

"What the…?" The ex-prince watched at how the mare waves her cane a little to extinguish a smoldering flame that clung to its tip before looking at his chest, inspecting himself. He could not find anything wrong, not even burnt fur. Not only that but all the frustration and anger he was feeling was gone. Or at least reduced enough for the prince to recover his reason. "How did you do that?"

"Doesn't matter, it's in the past." She quickly replies as she goes back to her camp. "Plus you feel much better right?"

"Well…yeah, I think... so but how exactly did you…?"

"…Now, now sonny, before anything else, why don't you come over here before you catch a cold?" The mare offers him an empty log on the other side of the bonfire. "Come on lad, I don't bite." She joked and flashed the former royal a grin, showing him a mouth full of gums.

The ex-prince stands up and eyes the mare suspiciously before slowly approaching her and waving his hoof in front of her face until she used her cane to stop him, opening her eyes revealing a pair of discolored pupils. "Yes, dear I'm blind, now would you please stop that, and just sit?" She asks him again slightly annoyed.

Blueblood still looks confused but agrees and sit on the available log. "There you go, now we can talk, properly." The mare smiled and poked at the fire going with her cane. "So tell me, lad, why are you so far from home?" The mare casually asks.

"Because I no longer have a home to return to." The ex-prince answers in shame.

"Really?" She asks raising an eyebrow. "Do tell, how did a colt so young end up losing his home?"

"It a long story, let's just say that the stallion who I used to be, did not care for anything other than myself…and now I'm finally paying for it. I lost my home, my friends, my family…my name. Everything, I treated everypony around me like they were nothing and now that is what I have become…nothing. Just an exiled Ronin." 

"Yeah, it sounds like quite the story you have there sonny, one I would love to hear in detail, but I would much rather hear it when you find out how it ends." The mare then stands up and starts to walk away, as a confused ex-prince just follows her with his eyes. "How it ends?"

When she stops, the mare turns around and looks at him. "Tell me, young man, now that everything has been stripped from you. Is this really how you want it all to end? Do you not wish to recover that what you lost? To have back and appreciate all the things you had, now that they were taken from you?"

"Of course I do!" Blueblood tells.

"Then your story is far from over, in fact, I dare to say. Now that there are no distractions in your heart or mind, it is just beginning." The mare smiles cryptically at him. 

"What are talking about?" As if to answer his question, lighting strikes near them, and it's light revealed a cave behind the mare that was hidden only moments ago by the shadows. "Like this cave, there is more to you than meets the eye lad. Some secrets you still guard in your heart. Some demons that you have yet to face. If you truly wish to conquer your opponent, you must first conquer yourself."

Drawn to the cave, Blueblood stands up and slowly approaches its entrance. He could distinguish something moving inside but couldn't make a clear image of it. 

"Tell me, lad, what do you see?" The mare asks without looking at him. 

"I…I'm not sure, it too dark for me to see anything. Do you know what is inside?" The Ronin asks the mare as he keeps staring into the shadows.

"It not my place to know, rather it is yours to discover and confront." The old mare replies as she goes back to the bonfire.

"But…what if I can't defeat my monsters?"

"It up to you lad, you can face your monsters like a man. Or pretend they are in the mud and keep punching it like a baby."

Blueblood nodded at her words before his eyes widened in realization from the terms the mare used. "What did you just…?" Turning around to face her, He only discovered that both the mare and the camp were nowhere to be seen. Not only that but now with his mind clear. The ex-prince could see the type of forest he was in. It looked like some kind of dense, dry wood, with pine trees whose tops were impossible to see. Besides some small vegetation in the form of bushes, there was nothing but dirt and roots in the floor, and there wasn't any fauna to be seen anywhere. But what really caught his attention is that nothing around him seems to have any color. Similar to what happened when he talked with D. 

Where the hell am I? 

The rain gained more force as the wind started to increase velocity and making him tremble from the cold. Looking back at the cave the ex-prince hugged himself once more to gain even a little bit of heat as he decided to venture inside. If anything, the place could provide him with some shelter. 

Due to his rush, he didn't notice how the entrance disappeared like a mirage once inside, and he could see nothing but darkness. 

Outside in the clouds, the mysterious old mare watched the ex-prince enter before transforming into the ghost-bandaged alicorn with one eye, who promptly returned the color of everything once more. 

"Be brave young prince, your test is just beginning." She whispers to the wind before looking to the distance where the assassin was still being chased by the royal guards and heading for the outskirts of Canterlot. 

"Not yet, there is still much for the Prince to learn before facing you." She nods once as she sees him escape, before disappearing in a flash of light.
> An Endless Teaching (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Darkness surrounded the ex-prince as he traversed through the cave, venturing deeper to avoid the stinging rain and bitter cold. Long ago did he give up in the hope of finding some form of wildlife inside, as the only sounds were his own hoof steps and the occasional drip of water near him. Even those faded away in time.

What IS this place? The ex-prince wondered as he kept navigating the mysterious maze, I swear I saw something moving a moment ago, why is everything just stop…? Before he could finish that question, he tripped into a rock and fell forward into an underground lake. The action almost drowned him from the surprise as he desperately struggled to find the surface. To his luck, he was able to see it thanks to a dim light that appeared and showed him the way out. 

Swimming as fast as he could, Blueblood gasped for air and put both hooves at the edge of the lake as he tried to calm himself from the scare. 

"Come on Albert, one more lap."

The ex-prince’s blood froze the moment he heard the voice of his father behind him. As he slowly turned around, he was met with a sight that both scared and confused him immensely. As a kid and humanoid version of himself was swimming in an Olympic pool while his father coached him from the side of it. Not only that but he soon discovered that he was no longer in the cave and instead was back in what appeared to be a public yet empty pool. His old self and father seemed to not notice him as they continued their training. 

"What the…?"

"I’st an adorable image, right?" Startled by a new female voice, the Ronin looked ahead of himself and found a human woman sunbathing near him without a care in the world. Yet this particular woman scared him even more than what he had previously seen as he recognized her immediately. With a swimsuit of two pieces, and her trademark ponytails and light pink hair. The woman lifted her panda styled and shaped sunglasses, smiling at him maniacally. A woman that made waves in the gaming community ever since her first appearance and had since been associated with despair itself, a woman that has simply been know as 'Junko Enoshima.' "A dad teaching despair to his son. Can you imagine something cuter?"



"No! Not you, anyone but you!" Blueblood cried out in terror and tried to swim away from her, only to find himself being hugged from behind by her as she whispers into her ear. "Why so scared your Highness? I'm merely a figment of your imagination, a character from a game you once played. Just someone that never actually existed in the first place." Before he could do anything else. The Ronin found himself sitting in another chair next to Junko as she points at the scene in the pool once more. "But THAT? That, I'm not so sure about."

"What?" Confused, Blueblood looks once more at the image of his younger self as he reaches the edge of the pool and hangs on to recover some breath while his father stops the timer he was wearing. "Hmmm 3 minutes 20 seconds, not bad but I'm sure you can do better."

"Dad…can I have a break? My arms hurt." Albert complained before looking back at his father. 

"Come on son, this is exactly what you wanted right? To be a hero, heroes need to be in the best of shape if they want to help others, or am I wrong?"

"No…you are right." Albert nods in agreement. 

"Plus, I'm sure that you have it in you to be better than this. So come on son, let's do one more and then call it a day." To the ex-princes surprise, the image of his father even smiled as he encouraged his young persona into doing one more lap. 

"What is going on?" He then looks at Junko who wasn't even paying attention anymore. "What the hell is all of this?"

"How should I know?" She looks back at him. "This is your memory, after all, you tell me."

"What are you talking about? This can't possibly be real, my father never once supported me in anything I did. He would never help me like this." The prince stood up and looked at her in anger only to be confused when he found out that he was back to his human self, wearing a pair of swim trunks. Junko for her part only smirked at him and sat on the chair. "Are you sure about that?"

Before he could respond, the ex-prince found himself sitting on a couch in some random room with minimal illumination. Next to him was Junko with a sweater munching on some popcorn, and he was wearing casual clothing that was all white. "Why don't we review the facts, one more time? This time lets think about it carefully?" procuring a remote control, she starts to change the channels on a, TV that suddenly appeared in front of the two, one channel showing his last moment alive. "Pretty nasty way to go am I right? Being crushed to death by a pillar in flames." She laughs before looking at him. "Believe me I know."

"Yeah, I'm familiar with what happens," Blueblood comments with a hint of annoyance.

"Oh, so you know what that, does to your memories?" Junko asked while leaning closer to him, poking his left cheek with her ridiculously long nail. "Are you completely sure that all of your thoughts and memories are real? Or, more likely are they simply fabrications made up to ease your soul?"

Blueblood slapped her hand away and stood. "What are you talking about? My father only cared that I became a business tycoon like him; He only pretended to show interest in any of my dreams to manipulate…" Blueblood eye widened in realization "…wait, that. That is not right I…he never showed any interest at all…did he?" He started to cradle his head in his hands, growing even more confused as to what was going on as Junko smirked. 

"Oh time to change the channel? Awesome, let's see what we have now." The tv flickered, this time it showing Albert destroying the old lady’s business once more, only this time he was smirking with malice at her and his father was next to him the whole time. "There you go, the new past is now settled. You have to love how that massive, last bump on the head can really mess up your head in such an irreparable manner that you no longer know what is and isn't real, wouldn't you agree?" 

"No" Blueblood watched the scene in horror. 

"Oh, so this is the version you wanted to be just like daddy? Well now we know why it took you so long for you to leave the place, don't you think?" Junko laid down on the couch as she continued to flip through the channels and show him more and more of Albert’s sins as he kept on ruining the lives of everyone on display. "If you really were such a saint, as you claim. Why did you never help others? Why didn't you use your power to make a difference? Why did you never stand up to your father? Over and over again you just watched on as so many people cried their eyes out. Begging for mercy, and yet you gave none. Instead, you just kept twisting the knife in the wound. All of this, ALL of this, just so daddy could be proud."

"NO!" Blueblood roars out "That is not me, it's NOT! I refuse to accept it! I never was that monster!" He denies it all as he points to the tv ."And…And e-even if I was, that person is long gone. I will NOT let the past define me. I am my own person! Not someone else's lap-dog!"

"Are you?" Junko inquires as everything around them shifts and changes, this time Blueblood found himself back in the castle as he was sitting in Celestia’s throne and wearing a business suit, a red cape and a crown in his head. "Or are you simply switching owners to serve?" Junko appears next to him, using her normal clothes. "After all, that is why you renounced the title, right?"

"I…I did it to stop Canterlot from splitting in half!" He argues, but Junko only pats his head. 

"Sure you did junior, all for the sake of the company right?" She points a different image. One of Celestia wearing a suit and his eyes widen once he sees her acting like his father. Bringing Upper Crust and Jet Set into bankruptcy only to force them to get a job in the castle and work in cubicles. "A kingdom is like a company for you, right? So if the company suffers it's your job to fix it. Even if it means becoming the scapegoat to do so. You had one job, and you did it flawlessly yet again! So congratulations prince, the company is safe once more!"

"Stop it!" The prince ran away with closed eyes, refusing to hear the truth but as he ran, he found himself running through a hallway. With the voice of Junko echoing everywhere around him.

"Don't be sad your highness, if you don't like it, you simply need to wait for a better past, that is what makes your condition so wonderful. You now have the perfect excuse to justify everything you do from this moment onwards. Remembering things one way today, and then another tomorrow. While others have to settle with just one origin story for all their lives, you have the advantage of getting a multiple choice past! Isn't that wonderful?" Junko exclaims before laughing maniacally.

Trying to escape the madness he rushes to one room and closes the door behind him. Stopping all the noise and giving him a moment to breathe, while resting against the door holding his head. "That is not me." He whispers in shame as he closes his eyes.

"Well, of course, it isn't" The voice of Junko mocked, bring him back to reality. When he looks up, the ex-prince discovered that he just entered an oval room with mirrors lining the wall continuously. In each frame, Junko was reflected, even in the shattered remains of the mirrors that were broken. "Your past can't be ALL a lie, you need parts that are fact. Now let see, what part of your past is as clear as day?"

"Please, Junko…I beg you." The ex-prince begged her in desperation refusing to see anything else, yet she seemed to ignore his plea's and continued to muse out loud.

"Well, we know that the old fart was a soulless bastard."

"Stop it."

"We know that for all of your life, your relationship with him was...complicated, to put it lightly."

"Please stop!"

"Oh! And of course the best of the best. He was a master manipulator that made sure to teach you everything he knows. Including how to convince a woman to abandon her child the moment he is born!"

"STOP IT" Blueblood's scream managed to shatter the remaining mirrors and left everything in darkness once more. Finally breaking down into tears, the former prince sobbed and lay down in the ground, curling into a fetal position; Junko only laughing like she was known for. 

"All those crazy ideas of a new start. Actually believing yourself capable of escaping your past. Thinking that you could just pretend not to be human anymore, to clean your conscience. Pretending to be something you are not."

She starts to laugh even harder. "More beautiful despair can't be found anywhere!" She starts to pat his back. "Prince, you are without a doubt, the greatest example of what despair can look like. I'm a little jealous, being capable of feeling such wonderful despair. Just imagining what you must be experiencing right now…oh, it makes me…" She moans next to him "…need to change my panties."

The ex-prince, having long since blocked her from his thoughts, recoiled further inwards in his mind as he wept amongst shatter glass scattered around him. Each sliver showing a crooked version of himself screeching out that he was a human and a monster over and over until all of a sudden, one of the voices spoke up. Cutting through the cacophony of noise. The silence that followed after its words was equally deafening.

“So what if that was your past?!” It called out. Surprised and startled, the prince looked up to find an elegant full body mirror in front of him. The frame of which was sculpted expertly to depict figures embodying both human and equine royalty in its reflective surface. Instead of showing his reflection, the ronnie found himself staring not at his own reflection but that of his pony form wearing a boatie and glaring at him. Right away the Ex-prince understood that he wasn’t looking at himself, but rather was looking at the real Blueblood. "Are you really going to let that be all that defines you?" He asked in indignation.

The harsh words of Blueblood fell on the ex-prince hard as he looked down in shame "I'm so sorry…I really tried, I thought I could be a good pony and…"

"Enough!" In shock, the ex-prince looked at his doppelganger, slightly frightened by him raising his voice. "Stop with this charade, stop with this pathetic pity party, and for the love of Celestia stop pretending to be something you are not!" He demands.

"But that is what I'm supposed to be now if I'm not a pony?" The ex-prince looked at his hand "Then what am I? I…I don't want to be that monster once more."

"Just because your soul is human doesn't automatically mean you are one! Oh for pities sake, this is why I hate talking to commoners, they need everything to be spelled out for them." Blueblood complained in exasperation, irking the ex-prince a little with his comment. "I will try to keep this as simple and easy to understand as possible. You are neither pony nor human. What you are, is the harmonic fusion of both of our worlds."

"The fusion?" The ex-prince ask confused by his word choice as Blueblood simple nods, before looking down and continuing. "All my life I was nothing but a burden for my family. I never once thought of anyone else but myself and actually believed myself to be untouchable, and for that, I must now pay the price." Blueblood then looked back to the Ex with determination burning in his eyes. "That is why you were brought here, that is why you must become what I never was. My aunties have already lost a nephew." His expression turn pleading and sad. "Please don't let them lose another one. I can't simply stand the thought of hurting my aunt's even more." He confesses holding tears. 

"Blueblood" The ex-prince was touched by Bluebloods words and put his hand against the mirror, but his copy backed away from the glass and cleared his eyes before speaking again. "Listen up and listen well because I'm not going to repeat this! Never be ashamed of what you are. You are the wish of my aunts made manifest, the hope of a better tomorrow and a new start for all of Equestria to see. The things, that...human mare with pink ponytails keeps spewing? They are nothing but tools and stepping stones for you to use and exploit, you hear me? That commoner has nothing on you!"

"Blueblood, no-" The ex-prince smile and shake his head as he stands up "Prince Blueblood…thank you, and…thank you for letting me continue your legacy."

"Oh, you better be thankful human! If you smear my title any more, I will never forgive you!" He threatened him before smiling slightly "Now get out of here, go teach my 'friends' what happens when you enrage a Prince! and I swear human, if you make our aunties cry again I will haunt you for the rest of your life!"

The ex-prince felt a genuine smile creep across his face at that remark as he raised an eyebrow. "Our aunts?"

"I mean my aunts!…your aunts!… YOU GET THE IDEA, now go!" The prince yells at him with a red face, making his twin laugh and nod.

"I get it and don't worry I will" He promised Blueblood as he started to disappear but then thought of something "Blueblood!" He calls for his attention. "The Elysium fields! I…I don't know even if you are real or not but if you are and you really are in Tartarus, then look for that place! Consider it payment for letting me continue your legacy, it not too late for you either, there is still a way for you to obtain peaceful rest!" He shouts to him before disappearing completely. The Ex found himself back to the hall of mirrors where Junko was. 

"Well look who came back," She smirks sadistically and changes into her more cheerful self, "I was wondering if you were trying to ignore me" She baby talked to him. She paused her antics in confusion though when she saw that they were no longer affecting him. Instead of the despair she craved, etched into his every expression she watched as he smiled at her. 

"You have my thanks."

"...Come again?" Junko took a step back, not expecting that reaction. 

"Thanks to you, I managed to face my inner demons. To say that it wasn't easy would be a gross understatement. yet it is thanks to you that I have come to terms with who I'm really am."

"What are you talking…?" Junko gasped when the ex-prince reverted back to his pony form "…no! Don't say it!"

"I'm not a pony. Nor am I a human. I am a promise for a better tomorrow and a new start. A new being who learned from his past mistakes and will now walk forward into a brighter future." he charged his horn and aimed it at her. 

"Wait, don't do it! Don't end this beautiful despair!" She cries out to him in desperation. 

"No! I have wept and wallowed in my own self-pity for long enough. It's time to say goodbye to despair!" He shoots a blast at her, shattering the woman into pieces as if she was made of glass. The bolt continued along its path. Shattering the darkness around it all the while. Utterly destroying the illusion all around him bringing him back to the cave, and underwater. The ex-prince choked on the water and floundered for a second, before feeling his body being pulled and flung free of the water as if the lake itself had rejected him. 

Hacking up water and gasping great lung-fulls of air, the prince massaged his throat for a moment before illuminating the darkness with his horn. Looking around for his savior in confusion, The Ex could only watch as the water gathered and decrease in size until it became a small puddle on the ground.

"Mortals that have found the strength to face themselves will never be welcome in my world of anguish" A deep booming voice from inside the puddle declared to him. 

Approaching the puddle, the ex-prince noticed something moving on it before a creature emerges from the water. It body resemble that of an equine stallion, but the newcomer's body was extremely tiny, with thin and long hooves. The miniscule pony also he had what appeared to be transparent butterfly wings and long antennae sprouting from his head, but one of it was missing, and his left wing was broken. His fur a dusky, thunderhead gray and his tail and mane were long and black. The little stallion's body was soaking wet his mane hung lank, covering his face allowing for the ex-prince to only see a single luminous white, left eye. From his lessons with miss Cheerilee, the prince was able to identify his species as a breezie.

"Oh dear god, did my magic hurt…?" Before the prince could voice his concern, the breezie spoke, in the same booming voice.

"Do not pity me, youngling. No mortal weapon or magic will ever be able to pierce my flesh." The breezie answered as he started to amble towards the Ex-prince. Revealing how the end of his four hoofs... weren't. Instead of hooves, they merged seamlessly with the dark water that made up the puddle. Which in turn moved silently along around him. Like some sort of mobile plate. 

Wait…that means that that lake, that I was inside…THAT WAS HIS BODY!? The ex-prince's eyes went wide in realization as the breezie kept walking toward him. 

"What…are you?" Blueblood inquired in surprise by the display.

"The mortal tongues refer to me as Despero. The ultimate shadow, the true self that lies underneath the heart of all living beings. I am the physical manifestation of despair and anguish. I am the product of all dreams that have been broken." the breezie announced. 

"The manifestation of despair and anguish?" The prince repeated in disbelief.

"You rejected my existence even when you had seen my world and have met my siblings?" He asks.

"Siblings?" The ex-prince questioned back with a raised eyebrow. Making Despero sigh and look down dejected.

"Of course they never mention my name, why would the guider of souls or the spirit of chaos ever bother to speak about the sibling who only revels in sadness and darkness."

"Wait, guider of souls and spirit of…DISCORD AND D are your siblings?!" The prince pointed at him and yelled in complete surprise. "Wait…Discord and D ARE siblings?!" 

Despero only sighs and turns around "It doesn't matter now if there is no despair left in your heart then leave, there is no place for you in my world," he tells him as he walks away. A white light appears behind the ex-prince, showing him the exit.

He sees the entrance for a moment before looking at Despero again "Wait, I still have questions! Was all of this a test?" 

"Make of this whatever you like, little colt. My duty is only to show those that have lost themselves in despair the truth that lies in their hearts. It up to them to drown in their own sorrow or accept their shadows as part of themselves." He stops and looks back at Blueblood "You made your choice, now go keep your promise." He dismissed him before walking until disappearing into the darkness.

The ex-prince continued to watch the tiny retreating figure before it disappeared into the shadows of the cave before smiling and nodding. "Whether it was intentional or not…thank you, Despero. I will never forget what you taught me here." The ex-prince called out before turning around and headed to the exit with new resolve, a clear mind, and a light heart. Determined to face whatever the world has in store for him.

Once the light engulfed him, he found himself with blurry vision as reality came back in to focus only for a pair of green eyes staring back at him to dominate his vision.

Yelping in surprise, the ex-prince tried to back away only to find out that the eyes belonged to a mare with caramel fur and a brown mane, and she was currently pinning him down. The mare lifted her head and smiled before looking to the side "You're awake! Girls, he's awake already!" She yelled, ignoring the protests of the prince and his efforts to move her away, despite her petite form, she was surprisingly heavy. 

The prince heard another voice sigh in exasperation as the speaker approached. "Pudding Head, I told you! You didn't need to rest on top of him!" The other voice, sounding more refined, reproached Pudding Head as she finally let go of the prince moved to go see her friend. 

"Pudding Head?" The prince asks with widening eyes as in front of him, he beheld the mare in question talking with two other mares. One wearing a spartan set of armor and the other a purple, royal cape. He also discovered that they all were currently in what appeared to be some kind of underground chamber, with royal decorations adorning the walls and furniture and beds to rest. It was slightly old, but it seems to be repair and well taken care of.

"And I told you, there is no better heat source for a stallion, than the good old fashion, mares belly," Pudding Head tells the mare the prince quickly identified as Princess Platinum.

"P-Princess Platinum!" He looked to the side and saw the last mare studying him with a small glare. Before he could ask she beat him to the punch.

"Yeah, and I'm Commander Hurricane, yes we all real, no we are not ghosts, and yes." She shows him the same presentation card Death has previously given him. "Our mutual friend send us to help your sorry ass get your crown back." She quickly stowed the card before continuing "So do us a favor and when you get it back don't lose it again!"

The prince can only nod as he tried, and failed, to figure out what was going on.
> The 3 Founders Of Equestria (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Ok, let's see if I understand you all correctly."

After recovering from his initial shock, the ex-prince of Equestria managed to collect his thoughts long enough to seek out answers from what were possibly the most influential mares in all of Equestrian history. They all sat in a circle and compared notes since they too seemed to have questions for the Ronin as well. Something that had him slightly confused but agreed to do so nonetheless.

"You are telling me; that in order to help my aunts in teaching me the qualities of a great leader and to have the ultimate teachers on the subject of ruling a kingdom…Lady Death collected the favor Discord owed her to bring you all back from the dead?"

"Yep," Pudding Head quickly answered. "Don't worry, we aren't zombies or anything like that if you were wondering. We're kind of like what you are, only our bodies are made from clay turned to flesh and bone." She quickly adds. "Think of us like really, really well made and equipped golems."

"Hmph! As if a golem could be able to embody my radiance." Princess Platinum added with just a touch of indignation. Looking at her the ex-prince took note of her striking features. Her fur was a light grayish purple, her mane and presumable tail were of a silver color, and her eyes were of a magenta color, with just the right amount of dark purple eyeshadow framing her eyes. Her long legs ended with metal regalia on the end of her hooves, similar in design to what his aunts wore along with a purple diamond ring on her horn. "If it were up to me I would have chosen the most precious of materials to create our bodies. As the mares responsible for creating Equestria in the first place, I say we more than deserve it."





"Will you give it a rest already, Platinum." Commander Hurricane snarked out to the princess in exasperation as she rolled her eyes. Looking at her the Ronin manages to see her more clearly. Her fur was a dark red, on the side of her right cheek was a small scar most likely given it by a sword fight, her mane and tail were short and black. And her right ear was chipped on the edge of it. "We are here to help him," she states while pointing a hoof at Blueblood for emphasis, "get his sorry flank back onto the throne, not to win a beauty pageant."





"We could do both things, especially if you let me work on your manes and…"

"Don't even think about it!" Hurricane complains, reflexively clamping her hooves down onto her helmet. The ex-prince only blinked owlishly in confusion as he saw how the founders responsible for creating Equestria were currently bickering with one another as if they were siblings that didn't get along.

Suddenly they all heard the voice of Discord chuckling and echoing on the walls, making them all stop their conversations and look around for him. "Oh I don't know Hurricane, I think you could look fabulous with a beehive mane."

He suddenly appears in front of everyone as a giant bee before quickly removing the helmet before giving her that very mane style. "Buzz, buzz, but my queen. I don't know why, but today you look particularly homely, buzz, buzz." 

Pudding Head chuckled and held her hoof on her mouth at the display as Hurricane can only look shocked at what was happening. Though, to her credit, she quickly recovered. 

"Oh har, har, hilarious. GIVE ME THAT!" She violently yanked her helmet back and shook her mane to normal before putting back on.

"Hurricane, honey, dear, sweetheart, you really need to work with me if you want to be on the next cover of Equine magazine," Discord tells in a feminine voice and transforming into some kind of photographer with dark glasses and carrying 5 cameras on him, as he snaps his finger two times and wiggles his neck. 

The spirit of chaos then notices the ex-prince, and he turns his attention to him, transforming back to normal. "Oh well, would you look it here. Our dear patient is back!" He told with a smile and began to take his pulse, wearing a doctor shirt. "Aha…yeah, I diagnose two pills of OCOL a week. Daily chocolate milk breakfast and no heavy diplomacy for two months." 

Then transforming into an old lady version of himself, Discord slowly turned to face the ex-prince and lifts a cane that he was using to move. "Don't ever do that again, you gave your old grandma one giant heart attack sonny. Kids these days, blacking out in the middle of the rain, and not even hearing one simple "Thank you" after bringing you here and get you some company. I thought I raised you better than that."

"Wait?" He then looks to the 3 founders. "So you didn't bring me here?" Blueblood asks them in confusion.

"Well no, dear." Platinum is the one that answers him. "By the time we arrived…"

"You’re welcome by the way." Discord interrupts her, irking the ruler for a moment before she can continue.

"Yes... as I was saying after we arrived under the instructions of this weird creature," She states while taking a glance at Discord, "You were already inside…just standing in the middle of the room, completely soaked through with a thousand-mile stare. When we tried to get your attention, you simply collapsed and have been sleeping ever since." She told him with some worry. "Tell us, dear, how did you end up like that?" 

"Yeah, I'm curious about that too." Discord says, transforming the place into an interrogation room and him into a cop with a cup of coffee in his claw. "We want answers, and we want them now!" He says in an over exaggerated tone. "And I warn you, young man, if you are making up stories, it better be one darn good one." He tells him with a glare, confusing everyone in the room.

"To be honest, I'm don't even know if half of what happened was real or not." The prince answers, holding his head. "After leaving Canterlot, I don't even know how long I walked until I ended up inside that forest."

"Oh, I can answer that." Discord tells in a cheery tone, reverting everything back to normal and showing him a picture of the prince on the bottom of a hole in the ground. "Not long at all. Almost immediately after you left the city, I found you in the bottom of a hole in the ground that you must have fallen into during to the rain and hit your head. So anything after that was just in your head. But please keep going, I love hearing stories that don't make any sense." He mirthfully replies, conjuring a bag of popcorn.

"A bump on the head? Everything that I saw was because I simply hit my head?" Blueblood asks holding his head and in effect, there was a bump on the side of it. "Wait, you saw me lying there, unconscious and injured and didn't take me to a hospital?" Blueblood looks at Discord in surprise.

"We're the ones asking the questions here, mister!" Discord rapidly responded. "And besides, the last thing Equestria needs right now is Daybreaker." He tells him with a roll of his eyes. 

"Daybreaker?"

"Trust me, you don't want to know. Let just say, that the idea of you injured and in a coma would have resulted in old Celly getting really, really REALLY angry." He confides in the group with worry written all over his mismatched features.

"What?"

"Doesn't matter!" Pudding Head interrupted. "We were in the middle of a story, go ahead, what happens next?" She asks him excitedly.

"Ah, but what will be the point now? Nothing was…"

"Please!" She throws herself in front of his hooves, giving him puppy eyes. 

The ex-prince sighs and rolls his eyes "Fine."

"Yay!" Pudding Head exclaims cheerfully and listens intently as he retold the rest of the story. All was proceeding somewhat normally right up until the point where he met Despero. There, Discord literally froze in place, staring at the ex-prince in mute shock. 

"Ah come again, what did you say his name was?"

"Despero, a breezie who hooves were made of water. Spirit of despair and anguish…and apparently your brother."

That surprised the founders who turn to regard the Spirit of Chaos as he facepalmed. "Brother?!" they exclaimed in unison.

"Yep, that's the one. Now everything makes sense." Discord remarks in exasperation.

"Wait, you are saying that, THAT was real?!" Blueblood asked in shock as the spirit of chaos simply nodded before explaining. "You didn't have a dream from the bump in the head Blues. My overly dramatic of a brother sucked your subconscious into his personal void of sadness and anguish so you could have a very vivid pity-party." He tells them exasperatedly before crossing his arms. "What a drama king." 

"Why did he do that?"

"Because that's what he does! Despero searches for the saddest creatures he can find, takes their subconscious into caves because he absolutely obsesses over those,then he makes them even sadder and then drowns them in their own sorrow. The guy really needs a learn to cheer up once in a while."

"Eh when you say drown them…?" The ex-prince asked before being interrupted by Platinum.

"Ah Discord, are you actually saying that the physical manifestation of sadness and anguish needs to 'cheer up'?" Platinum incredulously questioned.

"I know what I said." He repeats turning his back to everyone.

"Well regardless, I'm thankful for what he did." The ex-prince informs the group with a smile, surprising Discord. "You are thankful?"

Blueblood nods in affirmation. "Yes, it was hard and painful to experience, yeah. But because I confronted my inner demons, I'm now at peace with myself and figured out what was bothering me." He tells with a chuckle. "In a roundabout way, your brother helped me find inner peace and a form of happiness I never thought possible."

"Really?" He clasps his hands together with a malevolent smirk. "Now, that is something I can use." He starts to chuckle evilly. "Oh, I will never let him forget this." 

He continues to laugh and seemingly forgets the rest of the conversation. So Hurricane decided to jump in and bring it back in track. "Anyway now that everything has been cleared up, we need to talk about strategy. Mainly the where, when and how we are going to string up the two sons of a mule, bastard, jackass, sack of shit…!"

"Hurricane!" Platinum stopped her mid-rant by grabbing her hoof. "Count to ten" She suggested with a smile. Hurricane grumbled but nods and calmed herself down before speaking. "What I meant to say, is that those two…ponies" She finally spat out the word, trying to keep her emotions in check. "Perverted one of my favorite laws, so it fits their needs. I made it, so I, my boys and my girls had an excuse to fight each other and their superior commander to prove that they are not just bark. It doesn't have anything to do with removing the title of their superior officer! It was meant to be an opportunity to take their idea to the battlefield no questions asked!" She tells with clenched teeth. "Listen here colt, and listen well, since I can't wail on their heads until I hit tonsils, you better do so in my place!"

"Wait a moment, if what you are saying is true, then that means that everything that Jet Set and Upper Crust said…?"

"Doesn't hold a candle? Well yes and no, the law has been changed and altered, so it still fits in with Equestrias modern standards, but it still is a fundamental law, thanks in part to the insistence of Hurricane that we keep it." Platinum tells throwing a subtle, but not so subtle glare to her friend.

"Well, forgive me for trying to prevent our kingdom from becoming a bunch of wusses." Hurricane defended herself with a belligerent roll of the eyes.

"Anyway. The law indeed allows one to challenge a ruler to a duel. But the thing is this, It can only be addressed by someone with enough power, and a verifiable, extended list of proven crimes or abuses of power. Even that is subject to investigation and can only be accepted if another ruler acts as the witness of the fight, and can only be issued by another prince, princess of someone of high status, like for example, the captain of the royal guard. Or a minister of justice." She explains to the ex-prince

"Overall, by simply saying no. Or claiming your lack of information, you were well within your right, to deny the challenge and Jet Set couldn't do a single thing against you or take your title. But since you caved into social pressure and accepted the duel, you made it semi-legal, and your actions open up the debate as to whether it was legal or not. So in short, you tripped yourself into a gray area where there isn't an easy solution to the problem."

"Oh." The ex-prince looks down in shame before slightly chuckling. "I royally messed up this time, didn’t I?"

"Yes, yes you did." Pudding Head answers him with a smile and a pat on the back, make the ex-price feel worse. "But hey, cheer up! If it helps, Jet Set and Upper Crust stepped in it even worse." She consoled before passing a newspaper to the Ronin. The headline printed in bold and full-color picture beneath it grabbed his attention.

The picture prominently featured the Noble couple behind bars. Their features dominated by their shocked expressions. The title: 'Traitors to the Crown Arrested!'

"What the…" The ex-prince unfolded the newspaper and began to read. "As the search for the missing prince continues... And in light of the evidence, of a Cursed sword during the duel…Cursed sword?!" The Ronin pondered what the article meant before realization dawned on him, and his expression turned furious. "Those two-timing, no good, cheating bastards! They couldn't even fight fairly, in a duel where they were sure to win!"

"Keep reading." Platinum issue him, which confused the ex-prince, but nods and continues to read out loud. "…the princesses, have issued warrants for the arrest of the prime suspect in the case of attempted regicide of the Prince of Equestria…" Blueblood had to reread the article to believe what he was reading "Wait, what? Regicide?" 

"Yeah, long story short. Someone tried to kill you during the party." Discord explained. "Don't worry though, your two favorite guards took care of everything and scared him off." 

"Amber and Stellar!" Blueblood eyes widened in realization. "Are they ok? What exactly happened? Are my aunts alright?" He queried frantically, but Hurricane snapped him back to reality. "One problem at a time, please. Now finish reading." She points to the newspaper. 

The Ronin, looked at them still confused but relented and kept reading. "…and placed the city in complete lockdown... forbidden anyone to enter or exit the place indefinitely...and limiting the business industry to at-cost trading. As well as the only ones able to trade with the rest of Equestria at large is the Royalty and their direct subordinates... Who continue to provide the resources for the wellbeing of Canterlot and its citizens. When asked “why the crown was taking such extreme actions?" the chilling words of Princess Celestia froze a reporter to the core and prevent him from asking any further questions: ‘My Authority has been trampled, and my family injured. Until my Sister and I have news about our nephew's whereabouts, the lockdown will remain in place.

Furthermore, we are willing and able to compound its enforcement if our authority is challenged yet again… and if he is found dead. Heed my warning now... All citizens of Equestria and its territories... The heads of traitors will roll’." 

"No..." Blueblood tosses the newspaper away. "This isn't happening, It can't. My aunt would never say something like that!"

"I'm afraid it really is happening, dear," Platinum consoles him sadly. "Whether you like it or not, you hold a special place in your aunt’s hearts. Of course, Celestia wouldn't take this injustice lightly. Your actions have stirred up a lot of things recently, and that attack to your character was simply the worse thing Jet Set could have done. Celestia was already traumatized by what happened to Luna. Canterlot was standing on the edge of a knife and Jet Set simply made it worse. The failed assassination was the spark that ignited the fears throughout all the city. Chaos was inevitable, and only by taking drastic measures could peace be maintained."

"One form of chaos, I'm not particularly a fan of, may I add." Discord tells placing two cents in the ground. "I know, even I'm shocked. but what those two caused....chaos or not, it simply was wrong." He growled out angrily. "Add all of that on top of how I found you, and things might have turned out far, far worse. That is why I hid you. And believe me, each day that passes without you sleeping has made Luna grow more and more concerned." He informs him with some worry. 

"Each day? What do you…?" Realization dawned on the Ronin before he looked at the founders once again. "How long have I been gone?"

"Two weeks." Platinum answers with sadness. 

"Two weeks?!" The ex-prince shouted in shock. "Oh dear god, two weeks of me disappearing off the face of both the earth AND the dream world! No wonder my aunts are starting to fear that I'm dead!" He wails holding his head with his hooves.

"Yep, but in the plus side, it gave Celestia and Luna enough, motive, material, and evidence to go arrest Jet Set and Upper Crust. Cutting their support from the nobles off at the knees. Not to mention, that even though they have been implementing harsh laws and procedures for Canterlot. They have done so without looking like cruel or unreasonable rulers and are indirectly saving the entire nation from an economic crisis." Pudding Head explained to him with an innocent smile. "So…glass half full at the very least?" 

The ex-prince remained quiet before standing up and headed to the exit. "I need to solve this mess, tell my aunts everything is ok and that I'm in…" He paused for a moment to take a look around the place. "Where is here anyway?"

"Oh, just the original castle of Princess Platinum before leaving and founding Equestria, which is like a week away from here on foot, give or take nothing too big." Discord answered without a care in the world as he inspected one of his paws.

"One that I took the liberty of cleaning it up thank you very much," Platinum added with pride before hearing her companion clearing their throats in annoyance.

"Oh ok, WE cleaned it up" She corrected before rushing to the entrance "And I'm afraid you can't leave yet!" Platinum stops him from leaving. “Like I said you are in a gray area where there isn’t an easy solution for your predicament."

"Yep, that is the point I was getting at. We can't go to Canterlot just yet." Hurricane adds.

"What? Why not?"

“You have no idea how bad are things right now, how emotionally fragile your aunts are at the moment, what negative effects your sudden return would cause. Especially if it ends up with you not needing to face anything you claimed you would pay for. Honestly, I can go on; hay, you don’t even know how to use magic properly.” Platinum lists.

"Do you even have a plan?" Hurricane questioned. "Or what? Are you simply expecting to walk right into Canterlot? Yell that you are there, and pray that things somehow will go back to normal just like that?"

"I…" The ex-prince wanted to say something, anything, but can't find the words. So he simply looked down in resignation "…no” He then gazed back at them. “But we need to do something! Things will just keep getting worse otherwise!” He countered.

"And that is when we come in," Pudding tells him with a cheerful smile. "Don't worry Bluey, we will help you get back that crown of yours in no time. I promise. But first, we have to prepare for everything! And the first thing on the docket? Teaching you how to use magic the right way, human-style!” 

"Human what?" Blueblood queried as he looked at Pudding Head, confused by what she was saying

"Oh don't worry, it will be a blast." Discord reassured him cheerfully "And you can count on my help, during the process." He informs Blueblood, giving him an exaggerated bow.

"Seriously? Wow Discord, I don't know what to say but thank you." Blueblood responded gratefully. "And not that I'm opposing the idea or anything, but why do you want to help? If I get this correctly, we are talking about a... extended... training session. This could turn rather boring rather quickly." 

"It’s a sacrifice I'm willing to make, besides" He looked at the three founders with an evil smirk. "I haven't had the pleasure of pranking the three ponies that created Equestria in the first place, and this way I will have plenty of opportunities."

"You have a really disturbed and twisted sense of humor, Discord," Platinum states flatly in disgust. 

"Oh sweetie, you don't know the half of it." He chuckles in anticipation.
> To My Dear Aunts (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As another day in Canterlot came to a close, Princess Celestia kept admiring the horizon in sadness. Her sister Luna stood at her side during the whole process; no words were needed as they gazed at one another. Celestia waited in expectation, yet with a heavy heart, as her sibling quietly shook her head. Their nephew had yet to be found, and the stress of the situation had taken its toll on the monarch of the night as bags began to form under her eyes, ones matched only by her sisters.

Closing her eyes, Celestia took a moment to lament what was happening as painful flashbacks from the past swirled about in her mind. Only this time, fear was mixed into her worries. As hard and difficult as the banishment of her sister was, Celestia knew that she would eventually return. She wouldn't die, and she knew where Luna was at all times. But now with someone as mortal like Blueblood, truly banished into the unknown, it was anyone’s guess if he was safe or even alive and the idea of his demise was slowly worming its way into the back of her mind.

The sudden touch of her sister’s hoof against her chest brought Celestia back to reality, as she saw the same pained look on Luna, who she tried her best to remain strong and smile in an attempt to comfort her sibling. Of the two, Luna could always maintain her composure better. 

"Do not lose faith, sister. We will find him." Her voice was clear and calm, yet the sharp eyes of Celestia saw right through the charade. Luna was starting to fear the worst as well. She couldn't blame her in the slightest though, it was one thing to disappear for weeks without a trace. It was an entirely different matter to be dodging the Princess of the night in the dream realm for the same amount of time. 

Celestia smiles and nodded at her sister. Even if it was unlikely, she decided to throw away logic, at least for now, and hold on to hope.  

"I know we will sister, I'm just worried. It has only been two weeks, but it is still unsettling. Not even our best spies or trackers could elude the need to rest. How could he possibly have achieved this? If it wasn't that, then maybe he…"

"Don't even say it!" Luna stopped her before Celestia could say anything else. Her words tinged with a hint of desperation. "He is alive Tia! Do you hear me?! Alive! Th…there are ways, methods for one to elude dreams. My realm is composed only of dreams and not the act of sleeping itself. He simply manages to rest without dreaming. From his condition, it is more than likely. Our soldiers managed to drive the assassin all the way to the badlands, and even if he escapes into that desolate place, his return will be detected the moment he touches Equestria soil again. Our nephew is alive and well. And. We. WILL. Find. Him." Luna repeats with a fiery determination, before heading to the balcony and extending her wings.

"Now rest my sister, leave the night to me, as you patrol the dream realm."

Moved by her words, Celestia found new vigor and nodded to her sister. "May the stars be with you sister."

"And with you, and don't forget to contact me if you see him in the dream realm, Tia I mean it. If you keep me from this, I will never forgive you."

"I would never do that Lulu," Celestia confirmed to her, as Luna took flight and headed to the skies. 

Once gone, Celestia let out a sigh and let her head down as she sluggishly made her way to her bed. A bed that had seen so many tears in the past days, and she was starting to fear they were far from over as one single drop left her eyes while she was closing them. 

Please, I'm begging you, if you are there, give us a signal, please Blueblood. Come back home.

When her little prayer finished, the princess got to bed and pulled the covers over, sleep soon claiming her. Once more she dove into the realm of dreams and started her arduous task of searching for her nephew. Usually, Luna would be the one searching in the domain of slumbers, but for the sake of preserving their energy and increasing their chances, the sisters decided to take turns and explore the land while awake and the world of dreams while they slumbered. It was a hard task and something that was draining their energy since it meant giving up an opportunity to rest, but they were determined and willing to make the sacrifice. 

Once inside, Celestia didn't waste a moment before she began looking. Once more she started the search for her nephew, praying to find even the slightest hint, the barest signal, a beacon of hope. Any sign of life that she could detect and follow. 

At first, like all other attempts, nothing seemed to respond. 

Suddenly the princess gasped, and her eyes widened when out in the distance, something reacted. It was faint at first but grew when she focused her magic toward it. The princess got the confirmation she was looking for; a dream was forming, one she was more than familiar. Her nephew was finally dreaming, and she just found him.

Not wasting time. Celestia poured all of her energy and dashed toward the signal like a rocket, all the while calling for her sister as fast as possible. There was no time for subtlety or decorum; she had found her nephew and Equestria would be damned if she would let anything get in her way this time. 

She was about to enter into his dream when a surprised and slightly scared. Luna grabbed her sister by her tail to halt her advances, confusing Celestia in the process. 

"Luna, what are you doing?!" Celestia turns to her sister in anger as she let her go once they came to a halt. 

"Preventing you from ruining our chance to recover our nephew!" She scowls back.

"What?"

"What is the first rule when entering another pony’s dream?" Luna demands her sister for an answer.

"Lulu, what is the point of all…"

"What IS the first rule?" Luna repeats herself, and once calmed down Celestia understood what her sister was going for. 

"Always approach it slowly and with caution." Celestia finally answered.

"Or?" Luna pressed on. 

"…or you will risk either turning the dream into a nightmare. Scare the dreamer out of his or her slumber, or torpedo them into a dream inside a dream." Celestia finishes before sighing. "I'm so sorry sister, I just…"

"I understand sister," Luna interrupts her, "I want to see him very badly too, but this is the dream realm, and we must always be careful with every step we take." She smiled at her before looking back at the entrance of Blueblood's dream. "Now let try this again SLOWLY!" Luna remarked giving her sister a small glare. 

"I will be a careful sister, I promise," Celestia confirmed, following her sister's example as they walked inside. 

"Oh, one more thing," Luna mentioned as she finally entered. "This is the first time you have visited our dear nephew's dream so I should warn you, as you recall his mind is now that of a human, therefore his dreams might look a bit different than what you are used to seeing."

Celestia chuckled at that "I think I can handle it, Lulu." Celestia told her with confidence as they both found themselves at the entrance of a desolate and ruined Canterlot castle. Immediately the sisters could feel a sense of dread and guilt surrounding the place as they exchanged worried glances.

Using her magic, Luna managed to detect Blueblood and took the lead. "This way, our nephew is inside the castle."

Celestia nodded and followed behind, casting furtive glances all around the place. Spiderwebs, signs of battle, burnt out paintings and broken glass adorned the palace as they kept walking. 

"What do you think this means sister?" Celestia asked walking faster, so she was next to her sister. "A nightmare?"

"Unlikely, I can detect fear but its not the type of a pony wishing to escape danger. Rather, it more like a future you fear might happen because of your actions." Luna explained. 

"So this is something Blueblood fears might happen?" Celestia asks as her sister nods in affirmation. 

"Why would he think that?"

"Because after my fight with Fort Knox, the relationship our family had with the citizens of Canterlot started to crack like brittle glass." The voice of Blueblood echos out through the hallways, surprising both sisters as they hear him up ahead. Rushing towards the source, the princesses enter the throne room where they beheld an empty seat being watched over by a mysterious hooded bipedal creature; Celestia immediately recognizing the individual. He sighs and confirms that it was really her nephew. 

"Now I know that it was something silly and paranoid of me to think, but for a while, I really thought that because of me all of Canterlot was breaking apart, and I needed to fix it some…"

Blueblood started to turn, only to be tackle-hugged by a distressed Celestia who openly wept as she nuzzles his face. "Oh Blueblood, my baby! My sweet Blueblood. Thank the stars you are ok!" She wailed as she continued to cry and nuzzle him vigorously.

After recovering from the initial shock, Blueblood smiled and put his hand behind her head. "I missed you too auntie." The moment his hand touched her, Celestia flinched and took a step back, not expecting the sensation, and finally looking at her nephew who's body had a bipedal shape. His snout, horn, tail, and fur was still there, But his body seemed to have the form of a minotaur, with equine hooves. He was wearing a simple pair of blue colored jeans and white formal shirt. His claws seemed and felt softer than any other natural weapon she had seen or had the misfortune of experiencing the pain of. 

"B…Blueblood?" Celestia questioned in surprise while looking at the weird creature. 

The ex-prince was surprised by her reaction for a moment until he understood the reason why, and chuckled a little "Yeah, I suppose that was to be expected." He tells with a nod.

"Told you that his dreams were different." Luna snarked at her sister with a knowing smirk as she approached Blueblood and helped him stand. Deciding to change into her human form while at it, but leaving her wings this time. "It fills me with joy to see you well, nephew," Luna tells him before bringing him in for a hug, one he reciprocated soon after. 

"Likewise," Blueblood replied fondly before looking at her with some sadness. "I'm sorry for making you two worry, for so long."

"There will be time for that later, nephew. For now..." Luna look at the ex-prince up and down. "I'm more intrigued by your new form, it has a... marked difference from your usual human appearance," Luna asked, intrigued by this change. 

"Yeah, I'm curious about that form myself," Celestia added, equally intrigued. 

"Well, ever since I left Canterlot, I have been doing some soul searching, and I've gained some perspective on a lot of a lot of things, especially the question of, who am I, really?" He tells them as he circles around the room and stops in front of two mirrors, one showing a human silhouette and the other a pony one. "Am I really a pony now? Am I still human? Am I neither or both? Those were the questions that I kept asking myself." Blueblood looked at his hand before looking back at his aunts with a smile. "Finally I found my answer and I came to terms with it. I'm neither human or pony…what I am, is Blueblood. A fusion of the human and equine world. Something new and better that embodies both worlds" He places his palm over his chest. "What you see in front of you, is who I'm really am, and to be perfectly honest with you, I like it."

"I see, you clearly put a lot of thought into that decision," Luna remarks with a calm smile, "I'm just happy to see you finally making peace with yourself."

"Thanks, auntie." He then looks at Celestia with some worry. "I know that this is a lot to take in, so I will understand if you wish me to change into my pony form and…"

Celestia stopped him with a quick shake of her head "Not at all dear, as long as you are happy. I'm ok with whatever form you take because I know that no matter what, you will always be my sweet little nephew. In fact…" Celestia looks at his body with some curiosity "…I would be lying if I say that I'm not slightly intrigued by the concept of being on two legs, do you mind if I try it?"

"Well I have no problem with it, but are you sure you want to? Really, I don't mind if you prefer staying in your original form. The important thing is to be comfortable with what you really…"

"Nonsense! I might be slightly old, but you are never too old to try new things." Celestia proclaimed before using her magic to change into a bipedal form of herself. Blueblood’s eyes went comically wide in alarm when he took stock of the distinct lack of certain garments appearing on her person. 

"Aunt Luna, please tell me that she knows about the slight issue with clothes," He calls out, averting his gaze and covering the side of his eyes with his hand.

"Oh my gosh! Celestia wait!" Luna cries out in fear and rushes to her sister, tackling her in the process and conjuring a toga and her royal regalia.

"Luna what are you doing?!" Celestia squawks in alarm by the sudden attack from her sister.

"Apologies Tia, but if you really want to adopt our nephew's appearance, there are a couple of rules you need to follow. And clothes at all times is the very first one!" Luna explained while she gets to work in covering her sister. 

"Wait, Luna stop! Luna! For ponies sake Luna! I can dress myself!"

Once the dust settled, Luna stood up and sighed in relief as she admires her handiwork. "There, that is better." She admits, crossing her arms.

Looking back again Blueblood took a moment to admire his two aunt's new forms. Just like him, they too now looked like a humanoid equine version of themselves. Luna most likely followed her sister ’s example during the whole kerfluffle. They were both wearing the same togas Luna used when she talked with him in his dreams for the first time. But in her case, she even went one step further in making hers blue and filled with her stars.

"Are clothes really that necessary?" Celestia asks, slightly irked by what her sister did and inspecting her attire, making Blueblood chuckle as he approached the two. 

"Unfortunately, it is auntie," He informs her while offering his hand to help her stand up, which she accepted. "Nothing personal, it’s just that in my world, being naked in public is frowned on by society except in certain zones and communities." He explained with a smile.

"Really? Why?"

"It, kind of a long story and I prefer to explain it some other time," Blueblood admits with some degree of embarrassment.

"Well regardless, I must admit that this form is indeed quite intriguing," Celestia tells admiring her body. Though her examination came to a halt once she sees her hands. "The addition of these strange appendages at the end of my forelimbs are, what I can only assume are claws. Though their existence baffles me with their purpose. They are too soft to be used as weapons, too small to aid in digging or breaking hard ground or stone, and I'm assuming too fragile to act as some kind of defense mechanism" She then look back at him. "Yet, I can perceive some latent potential in them that I can't simply see at first glance. Once we go back home, you will have to explain in detail what mysteries these claws hide." Celestia tells him in excitement. 

"Go back?" The ex-prince ask his aunts with a raised eyebrow, before shaking his head. "I'm sorry, aunties but I can't go back just yet." He tells them in sadness. 

"Of course you can!" Luna approached him and grabbed his hands. "Nephew, the duel you participated in has no power over you whatsoever. Jet Set and Upper Crust cheated by tampering with your weapon in order to gain an unfair advantage, they demanded retribution without any grounds to stand on. They claimed to be of high enough rank to issue the challenge in the first place, which they most certainly are not, and lastly, the conducted a duel without the consent or witness of a royal figure or a chief in command. Therefore their demands and accusations are void and incapable of holding any sort of weight in the eyes of the law. There is no need for you to relinquish your title and remain in this self-appointed exile, You can come back home." She brings their hands to her chest. "To us." She tells him with hopefully smile.

"To your family," Celestia adds, grabbing his hands as well and looking at Blueblood with her own hopeful smile.

For a moment Blueblood considered their offer and was tempted to accept it, yet the words of Platinum keep ringing on his head and reminding him of what was going on with the kingdom and what needed to be done, so with a heavy heart and a deep sigh the ex-prince quickly looked down in sadness. "If only were that easy." He whispers mostly to himself as he lets go of their hands and looks up to them both.

"I'm…so sorry Aunties, I'm really am, I really wish that I could go back home. I miss you a lot, I'm distraught over what is going on in Canterlot right now, and about Pinkie and Fluttershy, especially for dragging them into this mess. But I simply can't go back yet."

"But why?" Luna asks in confused by that reaction. 

"I know what is happening." He tells them conjuring the newspaper he read in the morning. "I'm aware of the lockdown, and know the real reason behind it." He tells them both with a severe expression. 

"Blueblood what are you talking about?" Celestia asks. 

"Please don't." He shakes his head and then taps his temple knowingly. "Don't forget the type of mind I possess. I might not know much about Equestria, but if there is something I excelled at, It's knowing how the market works and seeing when one is in the middle of a crisis. As it stands currently, my returning would only be the equivalent of pouring blood on a sea full of sharks, and I'm telling you, you do not need that because I can smell the blood from here."

Luna could only sigh and look down in shame. "…It's just like you said." Luna finally admits surprising Celestia. "Luna!"

"As Fort Knox warned us, the Equestrian economy has been brought to a screeching halt due to his nefarious actions." She then looked at him, still confused. "But, what does any of this has to do with your exile nephew? If this is because you arrested that pony…"

Blueblood stops her by raising his hand. "It not just that Aunties." He answered, making the royal siblings even more confused as they wait for him to elaborate. "Ever since I left the castle I have been wondering what it means to be a prince, and what can I do to be a pony worthy of the title and not follow my predecessor's footsteps? Jet Set and Upper Crust might not have anything on me. But their words have some truth behind them. I haven't earned my title yet, and for me to continue using it, or recover it like this doesn't seem fair." He tells in shame. "It makes me feel like I will be nothing more than a joke at best, and fake at worst."

"Sweetie, there is absolutely nothing for you to prove,” Celestia tells him. "You are more than worthy of your title."

"Am I really?" He questions himself, "The moment I wake up, I only search for answers refusing any help and end up in the hospital for it, then when I try to live as I want my decisions brought tension and fractured relationships between the crown and its citizens, and when I tried to fix it, I end up making everything worse, by acting without thinking!" He yells as he punches a wall with frustration using his right fist "I'm sorry Aunts, but I can't afford to screw things up, even more, I just can't, so that is why and until I truly earn my title, I can't simply return home. This is something I simply need to do." He looks out of the window where the city was showing. "I don't know how, but I can feel it, our kingdom…it’s bleeding, even as we speak, and that is something I just can't ignore."

"But how long will all of this take?" Celestia asked in worry. To her slight relief, her nephew smiles at her in determination. "One month, just give me one month, and I swear, I will return and will fix all my past sins."

"And are you certain you can fix the problem in just a month?" Luna questions him with a raised eyebrow. 

He nods at that, "I know so, and know that I have finally figured out who I am. I'm ready to face this head on, and I now have the tools to solve it." He then approaches Celestia who still seems distressed. "Don't be sad auntie, I will return, I promise. Just think of this as one of the tests you gave Twilight in the past, but with me."

"But Blueblood…it simply is too soon, too sudden I…I don't even know where you are!" She tried to protest, as Blueblood held her hand. "Please auntie, trust me. Let me fix this one problem. Let me show you my determination!"

Luna smiled and put her hand on his shoulder "If you are sure you can handle this, then you have our support dear nephew." She tells him with a calm smile, surprising Celestia. 

"Lulu! You can't!"

"He's not a colt Celestia!" She shoots back. "We can't force him to stay in the castle all his life, and there are lessons in life you simply have to let your loved ones go and hope for the best, just like you did Twilight. I think our nephew has earned the right to, at the very least, try." She argues. 

Celestia wanted to retort, but unable to find any counters finally settled to nodding in defeat and sighing before approaching Blueblood with teary eyes. "No matter what you do, or how long you go, remember this. You will always be our precious little prince." She tells him as she joins their foreheads, being careful with their horns and closing her eyes. "Always." She whispers as a tear slips out of her eye and down her cheek. 

The ex-prince remained quiet as he closed his eyes too, appreciating the moment “Love you mom” The ex-prince whisper to her, before saying their farewells as he slowly started to wake up. "Oh and please release Jet Set and Upper Crust, I know they broke the law but trust me. They will get what is coming to them. I simply need them free for just a little while." He pleads with his aunts with some embarrassment. 

"Now Blueblood, that is asking for too…" Luna comments but Celestia interrupts her with a smile.

"Consider it done, best of luck sweetie." She waves to him in goodbye as Blueblood vanishes and returns to the world of waking. 

Luna looks at her sister with a raised eyebrow and then gave her a knowing smile. "You are going to send a platoon of soldiers to look after him, aren’t you?"

"Just the volunteers that were already searching in the first place." Celestia smiled. 

"They will need the tracking spell I put on him while we hugged goodbye," Luna adds with a smile of her own, surprising Celestia. "Hey, just because I am not the best at expressing it, doesn't mean I don't care. It was simply a small precaution."
> Royal Training Session (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stirring himself awake, the Blue Ronin stared at the ceiling deep in thought. Questioning himself if he made the right choice, as well as wondering, what kind of training the 3 founders of Equestria had in store for him that would guarantee results in just one month. His answer arrived almost immediately after blinking only once when he found himself face to face with Pudding Head, smiling widely at him. This, of course, startled him greatly and nearly gave him a heart attack.

"Oh good! You are awake. That means that we can start now!" She greets him with a happy voice as she backs away from him. Holding his chest, Blueblood glared at the mare "Pudding Head, how long have you been staring at me while I sleep?" He inquires angrily, only for her to giggle in return. 

"Silly prince, you shouldn't be asking questions you don't want to hear the answers to!" She responded cryptically before turning around. "Now come! We are all waiting for you in the garden!" 

Blueblood blinked few more times, mulling that nonanswer in his mind, but ultimately decided to let it go and followed Pudding Head through the hallways, heading to the garden. Taking the occasional glance at the condition of the place, he was still impressed on how despite being thousands of year old, the castle still stood tall and proud. No doubt thanks to the help of Discord in restoring it, but in the back of his mind, he couldn't stop wondering exactly how much Discord restored and what the pillars did themselves.

"Chancellor, you do know that I'm no longer a prince right?" Blueblood looked ahead to see Pudding Head. "You don't need to be calling me that anymore."

"But that is what you are silly, what else would I call you?" Pudding replied.

"Just call me Ronin, that is what I am after all. Remember? I lost my rights, so that is my name now."

"Hmmm…nope, I don't buy it, 'prince' suits you much better." Pudding Head quipped back. 

"It doesn't matter it suits me or not, Chancellor. I can't just go around still calling myself prince." Blueblood attempted to explain.

"Exactly! You don't put it on yourself or have any say in the matter." She regards him with a smirk "A title is something you are given by everyone else, whether you like or not. And I say, you are Prince Blueblood, so get used to others calling you that." She tells him. "That is how things work here in Equestria!"

The prince tried to argue back but found it impossible to argue with her logic, so he decided to remain quiet and keep walking until they reached the hallway exit. They then stepped into a garden reclaimed by nature and filled to the brim with debris, spiderwebs and fallen logs. In the middle of all that, Hurricane and Platinum were waiting for them. The former was doing some push-ups with only one wing while the other was enjoying some tea under a well-kept marble gazebo. 

"About darned time you showed up!" Hurricane complained, ending her repetition by jumping backward and landing in front of Blueblood. "I don't know how things work now, but in my time, it wasn't a good idea to make your commanding officer wait!" She treated him with a glare until Pudding chuckled and patted her head. "There, there Hurricane. We know you're just excited, but remember, this is just day one, so let the poor colt settle in first."

The commander rolled her eyes before walking away. "Whatever, just try not to waste the day snoring, ok?" Hurricane asked as she goes to sit on a rock nearby.

"Ok, I'll be going and making breakfast then, bye everypony!" Pudding Head called out to the group in a cheery singsong voice before dashing away. The ex-prince looked to his teachers in confusion.

"I'm that late?" Blueblood inquired with some embarrassment.

"Oh not at all, dear. That's just Hurricane being herself." Platinum tells with a roll of her eyes as she stands up and approaches. "You know what they say. "Once a soldier always a soldier." " She quotes with a chuckle before clearing her throat. "Anyway, before we start your training there is one issue we must address first."

"What is it?" Blueblood asked in wonderment as he waits for his training with some anticipation. 

"Well dear you see, when you really try to concentrate on your magic, when you clear your mind and try to focus into casting complex spells like any other pony in Equestria…you suck." Queen Platinum states flatly to Blueblood with a calm smile, bringing his enthusiasm crashing down. 

"But that is neither your or your teacher's fault. You can't learn magic the same way we ponies do. For you to truly understand the concept of magic, and more importantly, be familiar enough with it that it becomes an extension of your body, we will have to make use of two things. The first is a particularly useful spell that my good friend Clover the Clever taught me while my companions and I ruled over Equestria." Platinum explained with pride. "And then this." She then proceeded to show the Ronin a pair of iron handcuffs…or rather hoofcuffs without a chain and instead sported brightly polished red oval gem embedded in the center of both. 

"I will explain the spell later, but for now, I will need you to trust us and put these on, dear." She issues, remaining calm and giving him the hoofcuffs.

The prince inspected the adornments and weighed them for a moment before looking at Platinum. "You are not joking, aren't you?"

Platinum shakes her head. "Not in the slightest, and I will not lie, it will be hard, but the results will be more than worth it." She tells him with a smile. "Please honey, trust us. This will guarantee fast results." She encouraged him again, so with a sigh and his goal still fresh on his mind, Blueblood put them on. Immediately after, the gems in the shackles shone and joined together as if attracted magnetically. 

Surprise by the action and finding new weight the Ronin almost fell forward on to his face if not for the intervention of Platinum. "Careful dear, no one likes a prince with mud on his face." She commented while maintaining a calm smile, helping him sit before explaining the situation.

"As you can see, those are not ordinary bracelets."

"I noticed," Blueblood replied, trying to spread his forehoofs in vain. It seemed that the more force he applied, the heavier and stronger their hold got.

"That particular gemstone you obviously saw is notorious throughout all Equestria for being particularly sensitive to magic and for discharging magnetic fields once it is affected with such, and by shaping it into a pair of identical gems…"

"Oh for ponies…! We are not teaching a classroom Platinum." Hurricane exclaimed in exasperation and pushed her over before grabbing the shackles and lifting Blueblood into the air in the process. "Short version, unicorns wear this, and their magic feeds those rocks and binds their hooves together, end of story." She drops him and crosses her hoof. "There, I explained everything, can we move this along?" She complains.

"Wait! if they feed on magic, how do I take them off?" The prince asks in surprise. 

"I was GETTING there!" Platinum interjects, using her magic to push Hurricane away. "As I was saying, the gems keep the shackles together but if you pour in enough magic…" Platinum demonstrates by charging her horn and casting a beam at the bracelets, which grew lighter and separated from one another, then letting the prince stand up.

"…you can cancel their magnetic field. You understand it now dear?"

"I think so, yeah." 

"Good." She ends the spell, and once again the Ronin’s hooves snapped back together. "Because you are going to spend a lot of time wearing them." Platinum announced "You see, the reason why you can't perform any sort of spell properly is that you are not used to your natural magic. Physically speaking you are at the peak of your health, but mentally, when it comes to using your horn…you are basically a toddler. And that is when those bracelets come to play." Platinum start to circle around him. 

"The 3 principles of casting magic might have worked, giving you a base. But now we will use 3 human principles to help you get your mind up to speed with your body. You must be more than familiar with these ones since they have become the cornerstone of humanity in their society, culture, and nature since its origins."

"The cornerstone of our society?" Blueblood mumbles, trying to figure what Platinum was talking about.

"Adapt, Improve, Evolve." Hurricane answers shortly after. "Those are the 3 principles that your race have ingrained in their society since the times of cavemen to survive. And no matter how many times I think about it, I still find it incredible how your species grew and evolved from the bottom of the food chain as mere scavengers all the way to apex predators. If you weren't here as proof, I would say that it sounds like a wish-fulfillment story."

"Well, thanks," Blueblood mutters quietly, slightly flattered and humbled by Hurricane words. 

"And using those principles, we are going to help you embrace your new anatomy and environment!" Platinum tells him with a smile. "First we will adapt your body to understand magic in its more raw form until it becomes instinctive, and then we will move on to improve it by starting your magic lessons properly and then…well, you will see." Platinum smirks at him cryptically.

"Until then, here is your first task." Hurricane looked at him with a smirk before pointing at the unkempt garden. "While wearing those, you are going to used a simple levitation spell to get rid of all the rocks, fallen logs, debris and any other junk in this place."

"What?!" Blueblood almost took a step back at her instructions before looking at the disaster waiting for him. "You want me to use all of my magic trying to lift and toss rocks around?"

"Oh no sweetie, that will only be your morning training." Platinum continued, scaring the poor stallion even more. "As I said, we are going to adapt your body by subjecting you to all sorts of training exercises until you can endure a whole day keeping those shackles apart." 

"Can I at least have some breakfast first?"

"Nope," Hurricane tells as she and Platinum leave the place. "That will be your reward, you want a proper meal? You will have to earn it. Until then it will be just water, rice, and bread for you".

"And before you ask, the planning and strategy will come after you are done training, same with the spell of Clover. So do not worry, we will have plenty of time for that later. Until then, best of luck!" Platinum waves goodbye and both mares left Blueblood alone with his task quite literally in front of him.

With a sigh, the prince bowed his head down before looking at his task with some dread. Yep, this is going to be hard.

And so days pass. As the prince continued his grueling training under the guidance of the three founders of Equestria. Each of them agreeing among themselves to take different approaches to his training.

Hurricane decided to implement regular combat sessions in the afternoon.

"Come on rookie! You call yourself a stallion? Show me some backbone!" Hurricane demands as they sparred with wooden wasters. The Ronin was doing his best to remain standing all the while holding the practice sword with his mouth. 

He mumbles something before being struck down and be pointed at by the point of Hurricane’s sword.

"Pathetic, again!"

"I can barely move like this!" Blueblood complained as he showed her the shackles. 

"Do you think your enemies will care?" Hurricane bellowed at him as she continued attacking, making him roll over and grab the sword to block another strike. "Being a good fighter means to be able to prepare for anything that the world will throw at you. Fighting with honor means to never underestimate your opponent, and if you wish that your opponents fight fair, you first need to show them what will happen if they don't!" She strikes him again but this time offers her hoof to help him stand up.

"Cheating is the way of the cowards and means to be a one trick pony. You can be much more than that rookie, you just need to stop thinking on how little you can move." She lifts his shackles. "And start thinking how to move with these on." She tells them with a smile. "Now come on rookie, show me how a human mind really thinks!" She tells him, dropping back to being on guard once more. 

Blueblood smiles and does the same as they resumed the fight.

Platinum would give him cleaning or construction tasks in the morning.

"Now I want this room sparkling clean, and rebuilt…" She ordered Blueblood showing him a room completely covered in a layer of dust, spiderwebs, broken glasses and furniture, and god knows what else. "…by noon" She finishes. "Fail, and you will start all over again tomorrow."

"All over again? How I will be starting all over…" At that moment Discord appears and tosses a bag full of dust into the room and then appeared next to them with a painters outfit as he kisses his claws. "I dub you 'Le Mess.'"

"Of course." Blueblood sighed before coughing violently from the dust. "Don't forget to cancel those shackles while cleaning dear! That will really help you build up your stamina and control!" Platinum called out as she left.

"Oh don't worry Bluey." Discord comfort the Ronin. "Just wait until you see what I did to her cape," he says with a chuckle. At that moment they both hear the princess scream in a fury. "DISCORD! I'm going to strangle you with your own TAIL!" She screeched, completely livid.

"And that's my cue!" Discord snapped his fingers and disappears, leaving Blueblood to begin his task.

And Pudding Head went with her unique training method of escaping a room she called the ‘prank room,’ filled to the brim with booby traps everywhere.

Crawling away from the room, the ex-prince panted in exhaustion with a pie smeared on top of his head as Pudding Head stop a timer. "Six hours? Oh come on Bluey, I know you can do better than that. Were you even trying? It was the pies, right? You couldn't resist tasting them, right?" She poked him a couple of times. "Well sorry, they are made with shaving cream. Remember, rules are rules!"

"You blindfold me and spin me around before tossing me inside…that." Blueblood finally answered after recovering enough air to speak and breath.

"You must always be prepared for the element of surprise…So surprise!" She yells while grabbing a lever. "Oh god, please don't, don't, DON'T!"

She pulls it, and the ex-prince is immediately tossed back inside the prank room which locks itself once more. 

"Just one more run through and we will call it a day!" Pudding Head tells him before she starts eating a pie.

Days turned to weeks, weeks into months, and before he realized it, Blueblood had the nagging feeling that a year was coming to a close as improvements began to show; control in his magic improved significantly.

His body was starting to get used to movement again, and his reactions were getting faster and sharper. It was clear that his session was far from over but the fears of him losing the notion of time keep creeping on his conscious each day more and more until he couldn't take it anymore, and finally confronted the founders for answers. Fearing the worst and thinking that, at the very least, a whole year has passed. To his horror and dismay, the three actually confirmed his suspicions only to them be replaced by confusion as Pudding Head said that the month would restart tomorrow, and Platinum explained what she meant by that. 

"We have been repeating the same month for a year now?!" The ex-prince asks them in shock.

"Yeah, we kind of forgot to mention it," Platinum tells him with some embarrassment, "That spell I told you that Clover the Clever taught me? It is a time loop spell. Each time the month ends, we regress to the start of it with all our knowledge and skill intact; that is why we don't perceive it happening." Platinum explains. "It also makes anyone that tries to enter the castle spiral in an endless loop of finding and entering the place without knowing that they are caught in a trap. Don't worry, this castle is in the middle of nowhere, so no one will ever come here." 

"But…that also means that I have been getting older." He looks at his bound hoofs. "Am I a year older now?"

"Oh, Blues, you poor naive prince." Discord chuckled and tapped his head a couple of times. "Hello! Spirit of chaos and discord here? The creature that can break the laws of physics and order? Do you think something as easy as time can escape my grasp?" He tells with a raised eyebrow. "Messing around with the clock is one of my favorite hobbies!" He tells in delight before addressing the prince. "So don't worry about getting older, I'm telling you right now…you are not. In fact, you are actually completing a small time loop of my own creation." He tells remembering something. 

"What do you mean?" Blueblood asks him, confused. 

"Dear Blue, you never stopped to wonder why your predecessor, despite being a couch potato who only cared for spa treatments and being pampered all the time, was always in top physical condition? Hmmm?"

"So you're telling me that all of my training and physical improvement…are sent into the past?"

"…and ensuring your age does not move forward in the process yes." He says in pride. "One delightful yet small chaotic prank on the stream of time! Oh, I'm particularly fond of this one too, rather subtle for my taste, yeah, but making all those nobles lose their minds trying to figure out how the prince stays in shape despite never lifting a hoof, made it more than worth it."

"We didn't tell you right away because we didn't want you to think that you have ALL the time in the world to get in shape," Hurricane commented. "And don't you ever think that just because time isn't moving, you can slack off in your training. The moment I see you getting lazy, we will make things even harder for you rookie!" Hurricane warned him. 

"I will keep that in mind" Blueblood replies.

"Good, now move it! You got your answer, so back to cleaning!" Hurricane pointed at the front door, and not wanting to test his luck, the ex-prince complied and left to start his session once more. 

"He is getting better with walking on three hooves" Hurricane commented.

"Yep, but he still hasn't figured out how to keep those shackles apart for a whole day." Platinum adds with a tired sigh. 

"He is getting there, little by little but he is getting there though!" Pudding mentioned with a smile.
> A Warrior's Best Friend (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dashing through the prank room, Blueblood jumped and spun around, weaving and winding his way through yet another wave of pie projectiles. The moment his body touched the ground, he dove again to escape a trapped floor full of whoopie cushions before making a sprint for towards the exit. All the while the ex-prince was trying to avoid a giant rolling bubble gum ball heading toward him. Skating on down through a hallway full of banana peels, the Ronin finally managing to escape unscratched from the dreaded room. Then he stands shock still, waiting. Counting to 5 and then quickly ducking beneath the one final trap in the form of a rubber chicken shot at him from a cannon. When the task was finally over, he sighed in relief only to be received by a cheer from Pudding Head who immediately hugs him in happiness.

"30 seconds! Wa Hoo! You did it! You did IT!" She chants while jumping for joy. Blueblood chuckled at her excitement while taking off the blindfold and hugs her back with both hooves. It was then that he saw the other 2 founders looking at him with pleased smiles on their faces. "Yep, I finally figured out how that escape room of yours works!"

"Prank Room." Pudding corrected him while letting him go and allowing the ex-prince to breathe in peace while standing on all fours once again. 

"Not bad Rookie, not bad at all." Hurricane remarked, "Of course I could have cleared it in 10 seconds, but you were passable."

"Oh don't spoil the moment Hurricane, he was great, and you know it," Pudding Head snarked to the soldier with a smile before looking back to Blueblood, "And now it’s time to celebrate with a proper feast!" 

"Indeed, dare I say that you have more than earned it." Platinum agreed before approaching Blueblood.

"But before we do that, tell us, honey, now that you understand how magic works, how do you feel about it?"

Blueblood looked at his left hooves as he continued to hold the steady stream of magic canceling out the effects of his restraints. "It was hard to tell before. Whenever I cast magic before, it was kind of hard and weird. It always felt like I was trying to force myself to sneeze through my forehead, and it felt unnatural every time I did. But now…it doesn't feel strange or uncomfortable, I don't know how to describe it but casting magic feels…natural. I suppose that is the closest answer I can give." Blueblood explained, looking to Platinum as she nods. 

"And that is exactly how it should feel dear. The art of casting magic is one of the most beautiful arts in the tribe of unicorns; it's our greatest pride and joy."

"Yeah, it’s like flying feels for us pegasi," Hurricane mentions in happy agreement as she does a barrel roll in the air.

"Or us earth ponies with our leg force." Pudding Head called out, interjecting her two cents while jumping high a couple of times and then bucking the air. "It just feels really nice. Those little things in life."

"Exactly, and that was the purpose of this exercise dear." Platinum put her hoof on his chest. "Your soul might be human, but your body will always be a pony. Denying yourself the wonders of this world is like denying yourself breath; pointless and it will only hurt yourself. Do not be afraid to embrace what you are now and never lie to yourself. That is the trick to becoming a great spell caster." She explained as the unicorn used her magic to help him remove the bracelets on his legs and then took a step back. A small wave of magic was subsequently expelled from his body by the action, and the ex-prince looked down in surprise as he felt lighter and stronger than before. 

"Feels good, doesn't it?" Platinum asks with a smirk.

The Ronin can only nod as he looks back at them "Yeah, it does. I can't believe it, is this really my power?"

"It’s still too early to go celebrating rookie," Hurricane remarked with a sly smile as she crosses her front hooves while hovering in the air. "Now that you understand how your body works, we can pass on to my special training."

"Your special training?" Blueblood regards her expression with no small amount of confusion. 

"Did you really think I would let you leave this thing only just knowing how to use that bone growth on your head?" Hurricane inquired with a neutral expression. "I'll admit, having that can be useful, but Tartarus will freeze over before I let one of my students go out into the world without knowing how to hold a sword." She flatly states with determination. 

"What are you talking about? I already know how to fight with a sword, we have been training for years now!" The prince answers. 

She smirks at that comment. "Ha! You think that a wooden sword is the same as the real deal? I suggest you prepare for a wake-up call tomorrow." She warns the Ronin ominously before turning around. "But in the meantime, let's eat!" She yells out before dashing away. 

"Ah...Should I be scared?" Blueblood asks the other two founders, honestly worried. 

"Don't take her so seriously dear. Hurricane just wants you to be prepared for anything, just like us. You wouldn't want to repeat the events of your first duel, right?"

"No," The ex-prince confirms with equal part's anger and shame. "That fight is something I just want to forget as soon as possible."

"And that is why we are going to teach you how to fight using weapons."

"You too?" The Ronin asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, mostly Hurricane," Platinum corrected herself, "But while that happens I'm more than happy to teach you everything I know about how to rule a country, proper etiquette and how to hunt down, identify and destroy any rebellion raised against you."

"Rebellion?" The prince questioned, confused.

"You think our tribes made peace and became friends only in one day?" Pudding questioned rhetorically, while her constant smile took on a hard edge. "Of course not silly, there were a whole bunch of stubborn ones that didn't want to play along, and as soon as the Windigoes disappeared, they wanted to go back to hating each other." She sighed in sadness. "Some even went way too far."

"Really? What happened?" Blueblood asked, genuinely curious, wanting to hear the story.

"Ah!" Pudding Head raises a hoof to stop him. "All in due time. For now, let's just eat." She grabs the prince and drags him towards the castle's grand hall before he could protest or even react to her actions. Once again he was surprised by how strong she indeed was. 

Platinum only chuckled, and with a shake of her head, she followed them at her own pace. 

"Clover was right, it is funny when you see that happen to someone else." She commented to herself, remembering all the times Pudding Head had dragged her around with infectious excitement so she could witness one of her most recent projects come to fruition.

The very next day, Hurricane didn't waste any time beginning her lessons and eagerly tossed Blueblood into the armory before walking inside and take a deep breath of satisfaction as she inspected the weapons.

"Oh, this takes me back." She then looks at Blueblood. "Drink it in Rookie, this is where the real magic is born," Hurricane informs her student, as she looks at him with a smile. "Don't be shy, come closer." She beckons to him with a head gesture before throwing a hoof around his neck. "Meet your new best friends." She informs the Ronin while gesturing all around the room all the while smiling at the weapons. 

"My best friends?" He asks, confused by her word choice.

"Oh yes, now that your body is ready, we are going find your style." She explains before humming in thought "I would say…a claymore?" She suggests before approaching one of the many weapon racks, regarding its contents with a practiced eye before selecting a sword with a wide blade and aggressive crossguard that nearly as long as blueblood was tall while standing on his back hooves. Before passing it over to the prince without checking to see if he was ready for it. The prince to his credit did not drop the massive weapon but did nearly trip over it, barely managing to balance the weapon only to hear Hurricane call out. "A morning star?" She tosses him a stout length of wood and leather capped by a heavy ball of iron adorned with spikes. "A great ax? A lance? A katana?…maybe a sable?"

She continues to toss weapons at him before chuckling. "Oh, but what I'm worrying for? You are going to practice with all of them!"

"All of them?!" Blueblood asked in alarm balancing and juggling the weapons about his person like some form of caricature in his aunts garden.

"Yep, while Platinum teaches you how to drink tea and sit properly, and Pudding Head gives you history lessons. I will teach you how to be a real stallion!" She confirms with pride before picking an old rusty rapier, and give it a couple of swings in the air. "With how rusty and dull these things are, we will be relatively safe from injury while we continue to train and can focus on finding out what weapon suits you better. And don't worry about them breaking apart or give you tetanus. Discord modify them slightly so they keep their strength while maintaining their dullness and coated in a layer of unbreakable rubber, so they are basically really realistic harmless weapons." She demonstrated by hitting one against the wall a couple of times yet, it didn't break or leave a scratch on the wall, once done she stopped and regarded the ex-prince with a smile. "When using a weapon, it must always feel like putting on an old boot; comfortable and reliable.

She hands it over to Blueblood as he stares at it. "It must feel natural to wield, and most importantly," she pokes his side lightly causing him to almost lose his balance once again, "Something you can keep your balance with at all times."

"You sound really eager to teach me all of this." Blueblood chuckled at her enthusiasm. 

"Are you kidding?! I always love to train my boys personally. To help them find their style, to see how they improve on their own and become one with their weapon? It really brings a tear to this old mare’s eyes." She confesses while holding a hoof to her chest. "And now after a millennium, I can do it all over again one more time! I'm so happy I can barely stand still!" She confirms while flying around the room.

"But the real fun will start once we've found the tool that suits you."

"Really?"

"Oh yes, once you are comfortable with your weapon, you can start thinking about how to use it. Do I swing for my opponents' legs to limit his mobility? Do I swing upward towards my opponents head and neck to end the fight quickly? Do I prefer a direct approach, advancing through my opponent's defenses? Or maybe I play a defensive game, wounding my enemy in increments to burn through their stamina and will to fight? Do I go with slow, purposeful and strong strikes or do I favor speed and mobility over power? There are just so many ways, methods and philosophies for how to fight and this is compounded even more when you bring in the variables of armed combat." She shows him the body of a sword. "Even what materials were used in the weapon's construction can play a factor in a fight."

"Wow, I didn't know that there were so many things to think about."

"Yeah, it’s something huge, and important, It has to be. After all, knowing all this can be what determines you living or dying someday," it was then that the Pegasus Commanders expression turned furious. "And those two sacks of shit stomped all over the sanctity of a duel, and knowing all of these things- so you better teach him a lesson Rookie."

"Oh trust me, I will," He agrees with the Commander, equally enraged. "Those two stabbed me in the back, tossed me from my house and humiliated me in front of all of Canterlot. I will not be going easy on them!"

"That is exactly what I wanted to hear!" She tells with a sharklike grin on her face as she led him out of the armory, weapons now encased in an aura of magic.

"Now come on Rookie! To the dance floor!" She exclaimed in excitement. 

Blueblood nodded and followed along his training resumed, except this time things were split between physical exercise with Hurricane who, as promised, taught him about the many different types of weapons in the world and the nature of combat, and regular etiquette and political lessons with Platinum and all sort of history lessons with Pudding Head who taught him about her adventures as a founder."

As the days went by, his abilities began to progress even further. Before he realized it, the Ronin was able to stand his ground against his teacher; his reactions were lighting fast. His counters were precise and lethal, and the moment he found out his weapon of choice, the sessions got even more intense and fastpaced. Yet the ex-prince was prepared for them, and just as Hurricane promised, his fighting style was complete.

That night, the prince rest soundly believed that he was ready to return home, yet the next morning the founders surprised him yet again with one final test before going back to Equestria.

"You want me to manufacture a completely new spell?!" Blueblood asked in astonishment as he stopped eating his breakfast with the founders of Equestria.

Platinum smiles and nods. "That is correct, dearie. Now that you have completed your introductory studies in politics and history, familiarize yourself with your latent magic. Not to mention having achieved a level of proficiency to be regarded as a master of hoof to hoof combat and your chosen weapon along with having learned how to wield a vast variety of weapons, it’s time to pass to the final test, to unlock the inner potential of your cutie mark per se."

"My cutie mark?" Blueblood repeated before taking a glance at the mark on the side of his flanks. "You mean that this is not just to show what a pony’s good at?"

"Technically speaking, yes, that is what it means, but I ask you; do you know or did anyone ever tell you what your specific talent was?"

Blueblood starts to think but can't remember a moment where either of his Aunts, Twilight or even the Cutie Mark Crusaders ever talked about his talent.

"No…I suppose I didn't. While I was in Ponyville, I was too focused on figuring out my situation. Then the Fort Knox incident happened, and afterward, there was the whole thing with the Masquerade party." Blueblood listed out to them before chuckling with some degree of embarrassment and a slight blush in his checks. "I suppose it just escaped my mind to ask."

"Ha, classic human mentality." Pudding Head chuckle as she shakes her head. "If a pony had said what you just did, everyone would be picking their jaws up off the ground from where they fell ."

"Is it really that big of a deal?" Blueblood asked them with a raised eyebrow. 

"It doesn't matter, the important thing is that you have one and its damn time you knew what the hay it represents," Hurricane stated flatly. 

"Well, what is it?"

"Look at it closely Blueblood tell me, what do you…?"

"…Nope! We are not doing this." Hurricane interrupted Platinum before looking at Blueblood. "It a guiding magic star, and it means that you can explore the concept of magic and venture into the unknown with it!" She explained.

"Well, …thanks for ruining my moment of fun, Hurricane." Platinum glared at her in annoyance.

"It’s a mark on one's flank! Why do you want to make a whole song and dance out of it? What's next? A complete opera and musical score for our tails?"

"Oh oh! Is it too late for me to audition?" Discord interjects, appearing from the teapot.

"Shut up Discord!" Both Platinum and Hurricane command him only for the three continue to bicker while Pudding Head addressed Blueblood who absorbed what he was just said.

"Explore the concept of magic itself? You mean, like Starlight and Twilight do?" Blueblood inquired though Pudding Head shook her head. 

"Nope, those mares' specialty, is the knowledge and understanding of already known magic, what you have, is the capacity to invent brand new spells alongside discovering new forms and types of magic." She explained with a smile. "Isn't it great? You have a power that those two would kill to have."

"Wow, I mean that is too much." Blueblood mumbles, trying to absorb what they were saying. 

"Well, you better get used it soon because that will be your final test," Hurricane tells him, bringing him back to reality.

"What?" 

"If you think those sons of mules that stripped you of your title will play fair, think again. Leeches and brats like those; they have no morals whatsoever, they know and will use every single trick in the book. Trust me, as much as you try to make them play fair, they will find some way to turn the tables against you and stack the deck again. They are like pests, and unless you bring out the big guns, they will just keep coming back." She explains. "And there is only one way to deal with cheaters like those."

"By making them regret cheating in the first place," Blueblood answered, remembering their lesson. 

"Ata boy!" Hurricane encouraged, pleased with him listening. "And what is the best way to make them regret it? Using that ingenious brain of yours, and throwing something at them that no pony has ever seen before." Hurricane explained with a wicked grin. 

"Hurricane, you are drooling" Platinum cleaned her up before looking at him. "And putting the crude language aside, what Hurricane said is the reason you need to do this. Honey, we can prepare you for any eventuality but at the end of the day, even without cheating Jet Set alone is a graduate from the most prestigious magic school in the land in addition to being a master swordspony. If you wish to defeat him, you will have to make use of your unique abilities."

Blueblood nodded and closed his eyes. "I understand, and it makes sense when you say it. No matter how much I train myself, the truth of the matter is that Jet has the experience in magic duels and combat that I lack with only one beneath my belt. The odds are really against me."

"Oh don't worry Bluey, you'll be fine!" Pudding Head tells him. "I'm sure that whatever new spell you show us when you are done will be spectacular!"

"Show you?" Blueblood looked at her with a quirked eyebrow. 

"That is correct dear," Platinum answers, "We have trained and prepared your mind and body as best as we can, but this is your cutie mark we are talking about. It something extremely personal, something only you can explore and unlock by yourself."

"So I have to create a new spell all by myself?" He asks incredulously.

"Precisely! Oh don't worry, we are still here for you. But now we will focus on teaching you about Equestrian politics, warfare, culture, social costumes, and diplomacy. But that is it, everything else will be up to you."

Hurricane groaned and puts her hooves on her face. "I completely forgot about that, can't we just leave all that junk to Celestia and Luna instead and just focus on regular training?"

"You want to help him by being his test subject?" Platinum asked her with a flat expression.

"…Best of luck Rookie," Hurricane informs Blueblood while placing her hoof over his shoulder and then dashing away.

"Wait! How do I even start?" Blueblood calls out. Still perplexed by what they were asking for. 

"Oh, we have that covered too" Pudding answered as she takes the dirty plates from the table and starts to leave the room. "Discord... modified our library, to contain any book you want to read. You think it, and it will instantly appear on a shelf nearby. You can look for clues there." 

"It was my pleasure." Discord interjects with a chuckle and an overly exaggerated and elaborate bow

"But I still don't think I'm ready for this," Blueblood insists, a bit insecure. 

"There is nothing to be afraid of dear." Platinum assured him though. "I'm sure you can do something spectacular. You just need to think about this problem like a human would." She suggested as she left the room too. "That is something the human race loves to do, right? Find a problem and then solve it with that brilliant mind of yours." She tells him, inflating his ego a little as her steps are lost in the hallway. 

Like a human would Blueblood thought as his mind started to wander on what to do.
> Stepping Into The Unknown (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Aw! This is getting me nowhere!" Blueblood screamed in the library while pulling at his mane. Scattered all around were mountains of discarded books, paper drafts, crumbled or ripped pieces of parchment and a lot of ink and used feathers, leaving puddles everywhere. Following the advice of Pudding Head, the ex-prince locked himself inside the royal library and didn't waste any time before throwing him headlong into his research, investigating and planning out ideas on how to make a brand new spell. At first, he was eager and determined, but as time went by, all his attempts lead him into yet another dead end where somepony else had already invented it, or to find out that he was overcomplicating an already simple spell, or that it had already been investigated and found to be unsuitable or that he was basically making a blast or bomb spell with a different colored explosion.

After the fifth week, he stopped counting the days and practically moved into the library, taking advantage of every single free moment he could find between his research and his lessons. He simply stopped caring about how long it was taking him and just wanted to figure out something already, It was this lack of progress that only increased his frustration. 

"Wow, defeated by a piece of paper." Looking up with a start, the Ronin saw Discord floating around in front of him while reading a simple children's book. "Now that is just sad," He says without looking at him as he turns the page.

"Did you came here just to tell me that?"

"No, I also wanted to tell you that I took pictures of all the times a spell blew up in your face," He quipped back to Blueblood with a smirk, making him sigh and look down.

"Well hope you had your fun."

"Oh I did, trust me." Discord then surprised the Ronin by appearing next to him and pulling him into a one-armed hug. "But all jokes aside, I was wondering if you would like some assistance with your problem." 

"What are you suggesting?" Blueblood looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh, nothing much. I was just thinking, why not speed things along a little bit?" He suggested with a serious expression, before releasing the Ronin and gesturing into the air summoning two dolls with a startling resemblance to Jet Set and Upper Crust "Those two nobles also ruined Fluttershy's night out. Do you have any idea of how many nights we spent together, training so she wouldn't be so nervous?"

"You helped her practice how to be more confident?" Blueblood regarded Discord with no small amount of surprise.

"Of course I did, and everything was going swimmingly until those two nobles ruined that night. She even managed to score a kiss with a prince for pity's sake! I have already eleven jokes to tell her just with that!" He tells in indignation. 

"Hehe, yeah that thing," Blueblood reminisced with a dreamy smile as he recalled how spontaneous that kiss was. 

"And that is why I'm offering this once in a lifetime deal," Discord said with an evil smile, "What do you say if we team up and teach those party crashers a lesson? Just think of me as…" He suddenly turned into mist and swirled around Blueblood before disappearing. The Ronin watched as his mane grew out to a point where it nearly touched the floor, the blond leached itself out of the hairs until only a pale silver remained. A black leather jacket darker than night flowed around the prince, arraying itself to show a crossed pair of belts tightly wrapped into an X across his chest that connected to a pair of segmented iron pauldrons. The look was completed as a seven-foot-long odachi shimmered into existence in front of the prince. A single black wing burst forth out of the princes back spreading to cast a dark shadow over the two dolls. Discord's head soon extended out of the wing with a sly grin. 

"…your wingman. What do you say? Interested?"

Dear God, I can almost hear  'One Winged Angel'  playing on the background

"Come on Discord." Blueblood stepped away, shaking his body to dispell the illusion cast by the Draconequus "Be serious, as tempting as that offer might be. Taking it would be reducing myself to their level. Plus it would be taking a shortcut, how would I ever be able to face my aunts if I did that?" The Ronin asked rhetorically before sighing and going back to read another book.

"You heard what the founders said. This is something I have to do on my own."

"And yet you keep trying to build upon and copy the notes of others." Discord pushes, as his face replaces the content in the book startling the Ronin, who tosses the book away until it bounced off of Discord's belly. "Come on Blue, where's your sense of chaos? The desire to explore the unknown? The curiosity of asking yourself: Why not?" Discord eagerly asked.

"What are you talking about?" Blueblood questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"Think. Like. A. Human." Discord literally spelled it out, writing the words on a chalkboard.

"What do you think I have been doing?" Blueblood asked, defending himself.

"Oh? so the caveman that invented the wheel first checked the instruction manual?" Discord asked with his arms crossed. "I mean it is funny to think he did, but you really think that was how it happened?"

"Of course not, he…I, oooh!" Blueblood finally realized what Discord was getting at. "All I've been doing is wasting my time." He mumbled to himself.

"Well not completely; you made me laugh more than once." Discord chuckled holding the pictures of his failed attempts blowing up in his face. "Like when you turned your fur pink…or sprung elk antlers…oh and who could forget when you turned your tail into a dragon head!" Discord chuckled out loud, listing off Bluebloods failures. 

"Yeah, ha, ha, hilarious." Blueblood snarked before turning around and started to leave the spirit of chaos to his own devices only to stumble across the book the spirit had been reading, a straightforward child's book whose title caught the Ronin's attention. His curiosity peaked once he learned that his aunt was in it. 

"The mare in the moon?" He held the book in his hooves curiously before beginning to read. His movements becoming faster and faster as his interest was seized. One part of the tale always caught his attention in his readings. "Transformed herself into a wicked mare of darkness?" He asked out loud, catching Discord's attention. 

"Wait, mare of darkness? Transformation?" Blueblood asked once more before looking at the picture of Nightmare Moon and then realizing who she was as he looks at it in sorrow. "Aunt Luna..."

The Ronin then turned around and dashed to where Discord is. "Discord! This, this part right here!"

"What? What of it?" Discord inquired, confused by Blueblood's reaction as the Ronin tackled him to the ground and puts the book in front of the spirit before pointing at the picture of his aunt. "The transformation part, my aunt. What exactly happened? How exactly did it happen? You must know it, right?"

"Yeah, I know, as well as everypony else in Equestria knows." Discord agreed. Breaking apart and reforming in front of him before cleaning himself from the dust. "Lulu got jealous of Sunbutt, they got into an argument, things escalated, and before you know it, she changed."

"Yeah, that is what I don't get it. How did she do it? I mean, are all alicorns able to transform? What is the process behind it? Is this like that rage burst thing? Is it linked to their emotions? Maybe it's connected to their celestial bodies? I have so many questions." He states while pacing back and forth in front of Discord. 

The spirit simply shrugged in response and floated around before conjuring and eating an apple. "Nobody is completely sure. There are theories of course. I mean your aunts have the power to move and create the day and night all by themselves, so letting loose all of that at once maybe invoked it, I don't know, it's one of Equestria's greatest mysteries." He states while reverse eating the apple.

"And no pony has ever been able to transform ever since?" Blueblood asks confused. 

He looks at him with a raised eyebrow. "No, I don't believe anyone else has become a pony of darkness, or if it is even possible, why?" He asked with a hint of worry creeping into his voice.

"Then maybe…" Blueblood thought hard for a moment before returning to the stacks of books, retrieving one off a shelf before rapidly flipping through the pages and stopping at one in particular. "Aha! There here is. Now let see…good, it's not that hard." He exclaims in glee as he circles part of the page using a feather and ink, not noticing that his cutie mark was starting to shine, as he memorized the spell and walked away. 

Intrigued, Discord looks at what Blueblood circled, and got suspicious. "The first spell Swarswirl the Bearded invented to move celestial bodies? Didn't you hear anything I said? A) You are copying something that has already made, and B) You need at least 7 skilled unicorns to perform it!" 

"I not going to move the sun or the moon," Blueblood explains as he moves some pillars around until he improvised an altar. "I just need half the spell, particularly the part that connects your magic with the object."

"The object in this case been the sun?" He asks confused. 

"The moon actually." the stallion turns around and smiles. "I'm going to figure out how my aunt did it. And if it is linked to the moon, Starswirl's spell will be a perfect way to start my tests" He continued eagerly "Plus, I'm intrigued, this Nightmare Moon character is basically Daybreaker but in my aunt Luna, right?"

"Well yeah, in a way."

"So there is a chance that this transformation ability is a family thing. If true, then maybe as their blood relative, there's a chance I could do the same thing, if I overcharge myself."

"Woah, woah, woah." Discord appears in front of him "You are telling me. That you plan to connect and synchronize your magic with the moons, so to see if that can transform yourself into a stallion of darkness, all because of a hunch that it might be something that you inherited, and the only reason why you can't at the moment is because you don't have enough magic?"

"More or less yeah, and for that, I need to test my theory. And if this astrology book is accurate..." He shows Discord the book in question, "My aunts had moved it for so long, and so many times that it's become its own self sustaining magic source. So if I'm wrong, I could still gain an extra external power supply to draw from. One rather large and powerful magic supply…one that I could use to overcharge and overpower Jet Set with until he can't take anymore" Blueblood mumbled starting to think of possibilities "What happen if a horn is an overcharged with external magic?"

"It explodes" Discord answer "But no pony has ever done this before, we don't even know if it is safe, or what would happen! "

"Yep," Blueblood agreed and then sat down,

"But why go to such lengths? You could think of something else? The only thing that is limiting you is your own imagination? Why do you want to transform into something like this?" He asks picking the book and pointing at the image of Nightmare Moon.

"Part of it is because I'm intrigued how it happens, the other is…well, growing up I was always fascinated with the idea of transforming. Breaking your limits and become something more powerful and cool. I know it's childish of me but, the idea of having a transformation fills me with excitement. So, you want to help me?"

"Are you kidding? This is reckless, potentially dangerous, with a meager chance of success and impossible to predict what would happen? What are we waiting for? Of course, I will help! This is exactly what I was talking about." Discord exclaimed with a giant smile in his face.

"Pure chaotic, human way of thinking. What do you want me to do?"

"Well," Blueblood scratched the back of his head with some embarrassment, "For this to work I obviously need to work at night, so it would help if this room has that condition all the time. But I'm not so sure if it isn't even possible for you to…"

"Done!" Discord snapped his fingers, and everything became night time around him. "By the way, the spirit of chaos! If it makes no sense? Of course, I can do it." He says, slightly irked by being doubted. 

"Discord, please tell me that you didn't just take away my aunt's night," Blueblood asked terrified of the implications of what Discord just did.

"Relax I only took a small chunk of it, she won't notice." Discord assured him with a dismissive wave of his paw.

Meanwhile out in a small sector of the wastelands

A rather confused lizard looked at the sky which suddenly became dawn while everything around his location was still the middle of the night. 

Back at the castle

"Now let's start this show!" Discord stated with anticipation. 

"Ok, but I should warn you, this spell requires concentration and silence so things might get really boring pretty fast," Blueblood warned as he sat in the middle of a ritual circle while facing the full moon, then closed his eyes to start meditating. the Ronin's horn began to shine before it sparked and sent him flying, crashing down into his pile of books. 

"Well, maybe it won't be so boring after all," Discord said with a chuckle, "Are you ok Blue?"

"Note to self, the moon has an enormous amount of magic on its surface. So do not rush pulling it in all at once, just give me a minute Discord. I will be there as soon as the room stops spinning and the air stops tasting purple." Blueblood responded, making the spirit chuckle and shake his head. "Better put a healing dome too just in case." He mumbled as Blueblood soon returns and starts all over again.

As time went by, the ex-prince confined himself in the library wholly, dedicating his full attention to perfecting the spell and testing his theories, forgoing all other studies and activities. Succeeding in finding out new ways and methods to use his raw magic, with the aid of the moon.

By maintaining the charge in his horn, he figured out a way to manipulate and control his aura. Succeeding in creating a method to give himself hands at the ends of his hooves. They took the form of a durable magical, construct that looked much like knights vambraces. 

By covering his entire body in magic and then aiming, he discovered a new type of teleportation that allows him to send a projection of his body anywhere, that upon contact exploded in a wave of electricity. The charge was not particularly lethal, but with enough energy, it could paralyze and disorient an opponent for a brief couple of seconds. And by sacrificing the lower half of its body and reduce its side, he succeed in launch them at the speed of a bullet, making them seeking micro missiles 

And finally, by focusing his energy in his throat, he managed to convert a simple whistle into a sonic cannon capable of shattering stone, with the drawback of leaving his throat sore afterward.

All of these had been small victories that the ex-prince took particular pride in, yet his main objective still seemed far off. Despite that, the ex-prince found new vigor and kept marching forward, determined to finish this spell. At first, Discord took joy in his failures, as he was recording them all, but when Blueblood started to limit his brakes to eating, sleeping and bathroom necessities, the spirit of Chaos began to worry. Soon, even he was expelled from the library, and Blueblood was indeed left alone to finish his work.



Breathing heavenly, the Ronin, lay limp in the ground after yet another attempt failed. His body was begging him to stop as sparks flew from his horn erratically. 

Come on!

He slammed a hoof into the floor in frustration before looking back to the book that started it all. 

What am I doing wrong?

He mentally asked himself as he stared at the picture of Nightmare Moon before sighing and looking at it again with sadness as he passes his hoof over her face.

"It must have been a horrifying experience, right Auntie?" He lightly chuckled as he talked to himself. "One can only wonder and fear, what thoughts of jealousy and anger were coursing through your mind that ni…"

His eyes widened at the revelation. "Emotions." He says out loud before stumbling back to the circle. That is what I was missing! Starswirl said to clear my mind, but that is to move, not to connect, I need to use my heart instead of my head!

He was about to start the spell once again but stopped and took a deep breath, then closed his eyes. 

Calm down, and don't overthink it.

Blueblood instructed himself as he slowly started all over again, picturing the moon in his head and then his aunt Luna, bringing a smile on his face as he recalled all the moments he spent together with her. 

I love you, Auntie… 

A tear fell from his eye as the wind started to swirl around him. 

The night is more than just darkness and terror, it about peace…about discovering hidden wonders… It's about dreams and hopes. The night is the beauty of exploring the unknown. That is what you wanted to show them, right aunt Luna?

The Ronin smiled as his cutie mark lit up once more, and he started to feel his body filling with magic. The objects around him began to levitate and orbit around. His eyes snapped open glowing white with arcane power. Before him, he could see the silhouette of Nightmare Moon with eyes made of white light staring right at him with a neutral expression, judging.

The prince smiled and closed his eyes once more "I'm not afraid" He quietly informs the silhouette making a small smile of light appear on her face before it took a step closer, engulfing him in a purple mist that starts to spin and shine with a dim light, creating the illusion of an egg, with Luna's cutie mark in the center of it. The objects start to orbit faster, reaching a fever pitch as thunder flashed within and without the egg as it began to pulse. The storm soon hit some shelf sending papers flying all around the ex-prince, as the egg floated up to the middle of the room.

While all of that was happening, the founders and Discord were at the entrance, debating whether or not they should enter and utterly unaware of the storm inside. 

"Ok, I going in," Hurricane states in exasperation as she approaches the library entrance, only for Platinum to stop her. 

"Hurricane no! We can't get in his way. This is something he needs to solve alone!"

"It has been 3 months already! I think he's had enough time!" She argued back. "Come on girls, don't you think that maybe we went a bit too far? He was ready and eager to go back home when I was done with him." She explained. "If he is not ready, then it's fine we can always think on some other…where is Pudding Head?" Hurricane asks quickly when she notices the absence of both her and Discord and when looking back, she saw them both opening the door. 

"Wait!" Platinum tried to stop them, but it was too late as they walked inside only to be blasted back by a wave of magic that knocks everyone off their hooves. 

"What is going on?" Platinum asks after recuperating from the blast and shaking her head to clear it, her companions soon doing the same. 

"My most sincere apologies, dear founders." The voice of Blueblood caught them all off guard as they all look up to the libraries entrance seeing a sliver of pure night within. Bluebloods silhouette calmy approaching them while completely concealed in shadow. "It appears that my spell took more time to master than that I originally thought." The chamber gradually got brighter. When Blueblood finally stepped out into the hall they could see that his entire body was smoking and he had some bags under his eyes, but it was his grinning face of victory that they all noticed first. "But now it is finally completed, and if I may ask, is there anything else you wish to teach me before we depart?"

++Stop the music.++

The founders blinked a couple of times before shaking their heads in a no. 

"Great, in that case, would you mind if I rest for the day? So we can then depart tomorrow?" 

"Ah…I don't see why not?" Platinum answered for her and her companions. 

"Thank you, dear founder." Blueblood gives them a small bow before heading to his room. 

"Wait!" Pudding Head called out from behind him. 

"Yes?" Blueblood looks back to see her. 

"Before you go tell us, what was the result? Did you transform? Or did you just get a massive battery?" She asks with wonder, the others matching her expression as they all wanted answers. To their surprise, Blueblood only chuckled and shook his head. "Oh founder, as much as I would love to indulge you with an explanation, I'm exhausted. So I beg of you if you let me rest I will gladly tell my findings on our way back to Equestria. I would also be more than happy to give you a practical demonstration of my accomplishments on my dEaR fRiEnD Jet Set." He informs her with a small glare as his eyes flash white and for an instant his voice took on a demonic echo, startling the founder.

just as quickly Blueblood returned to normal and smiled. "For now, I really would like to retire to my bedchambers, good night fair maidens. Sir Discord." He gives them a polite courtly bow once again before leaving. 

"Well, …at least my lessons of etiquette have been paying off." Platinum tells proudly by her work. 

"Yeah, well just don't let that get to your head," Hurricane mentioned with a quick roll of her eyes as they all go to their rooms minus Pudding Head who looked at Discord still staring at the library. 

"Are you coming Discord?"

"In a second, I'm just admiring our student's handy work." He tells with a smirk. 

"What do you mean?" She asks confused until she peeks inside the room and sees just how completely demolished it was. It looked like an explosion without fire just ripped through in the middle of it. 

"Wow." Pudding head mentioned, impressed by the level of destruction. "Our colt is ready."

Suddenly a lightbulb blinked into existence over Discord with a ding before he grabbed it and started to chew on it thoughtfully. "Not quite, there is just one little detail missing."

"Really? What?"

"A graduation gift!" He proclaimed before looking back at Pudding Head. "See you tomorrow, oh, and maybe someone should do something about those guards at the entrance." He suggests before snapping his fingers and then disappearing. 

"Sure I will look into…wait, what guards?" She asked herself in alarm.

The next day

Stretching his body, Blueblood welcomed the morning sun with a smile. "God it feels so good to have a good nights sleep." He tells himself. 

"Well, someone is a good mood." Platinum smirked as she and the founders approached the prince, all of them forgoing their usual outfits and were instead sporting 3 hooded cloaks with Pudding Head passing an extra one to him, along with some saddlebags. 

"Ah good morning, Chancellor, Commander, Princess." Blueblood greeted them. "Can you blame me? Today we return home. Sure it will be hard to explain and a bit weird when I'm returning with the 3 founders of Equestria, but it still will still be great to go back."

"Don't get ahead of yourself Rookie, this isn't over yet." Hurricane reminded him. "You still remember the plan?"

"Yes, we will lay low, see how bad everything is in the country, and fix the biggest problems we can find, before heading to Canterlot," He repeats back to them with a nod as he pulls the hood up on the cloak that the Chancellor had given him.

"Good, in that case, let's go!"

"But before that..." Discord calls out behind them appearing out of thin air while holding a wooden box, surprising everyone. "I have a parting gift." He offered the box to Blueblood. 

"Ah…thanks?" Blueblood takes the box unsure by his actions. "What is it?"

"Just a little something, for all the fun you four gave me." He tells with a smile. When opened, Blueblood was surprised to find a single crown made of silver for his head. Beneath the crown lay a matched pair of broadswords, each blade sheathed in a rich black leather and wood scabbard that was looped through by a sturdy belt with silver metal accents. Carefully removing the weapons, Blueblood took note of the D ring guard and blade catches that perfectly matched with the belt and crown. Carefully gripped the blackwood handle and removed one of the swords from its resting place. He noted the black wavy pattern in the dark metal and which turned to a gleaming silvery edge. 



"Wow Discord, I…I don't know what to say? You made them?" Blueblood asks, fully unsheathed the blade and held it easily in his hoof eying that same silvery edge as it terminated into a sharp point. Then gave the blade a careful flourish to test its weight and balance. He was pleased to find that it was nimble and easy to maneuver in the hoof. Sheathing the blade back into its scabbard and the prince buckled the swords on with practiced ease before drawing forth the blade with blinding speed to stand on guard. Noting how easy and natural it was to do so. His training paid off as he was able to hold and move so freely with these new additions. 

"Since when are you are a blacksmith?" Hurricane questioned Discord with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh Hurricane dear, do you think I could do something as orderly and refined as those two beauties?" He answers with a chuckle. "No, I didn't make them…buuut I do happen to know an excellent blacksmith that made them from me using an excellent material." He confides in them with an evil smirk. 

"Discord, what did you used for the metal?" Hurricane asks with some worry, making the Draconequus giggle. " Just the remains of Nightmare Moon's Adamant armor." He answers honestly.

"The what?" Everyone looked at the spirit of Chaos in surprise.

"Well, if he is going to fight to recover his honor and his title of prince, I think it fitting that he used a family heirloom, don't you agree?"

"I suppose so," Blueblood answered as he held the swords in the sky. He could feel the metal, warm and calm in his hoof, despite being associated with such terrifying mare, the prince didn't feel afraid of it. In a way, it made him feel secure. "they're perfect, thank you Discord. Really"

"Aren't you going to put on the crown too?" He offers said object in anticipation. 

"Not yet, I want to earn it fair and square. The symbolic implication of putting it on after beating Jet Set is just too delicious." He tells in excitement. "Oh but you can bet your bottom bit I'm going to use these beauties though!" Blueblood drew his other sword and steps away from the group before falling into his preferred guard poised to move, attack or defend before weaving his way through a dancing pattern of flashing steel, punishing blows, solid guards and deft movements, familiarizing himself with the weapons that were quickly growing to be his favorites. 

When the Ronins improvised drill ended, Hurricane chuckled and shakes her head. "You know Rookie, it's customary to name your weapon once you found your ideal one." She mentions. "Why not make it official and gave them proper names."

"Oh! May I suggest perhaps Loki and Eris?" Discord suggested. 

Blueblood for his part laughed and shook his head. "Thanks for the idea, but I think I know what to call them." He stares at his swords in contemplation. "I think I will call them…Llamrai and Hengroen*."

"Llamrai and Hengroen? Hmm, I suppose it fitting giving your origins." Platinum commented "Let go with that" She smiled and then turned to the entrance. "Now come along dear, there's a long trip ahead of us, and we still need to free those soldiers Celestia send to find you." She stated conversationally while charging her horn. 

"Wait, my aunt did what?" Blueblood looked back at her in confusion.
> Blueblood, A Joke Prince Or The Real Deal? (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"But…but this is my grandma's sewing machine! Please, this is the only thing I have left! Please don't take this!" Coco Pommel pleaded, hugging her family treasure tight while tears streamed from her eyes. Yet the two stallions that had come early in the morning simply shrugged and grinned. One, using his magic, yanked the object away from her. This was how things had, unfortunately, devolved all over Manehattan. Thanks to the power vacuum in the criminal underworld that resulted from Fort Knox's arrest, multiple, lesser criminals rose to power and lept into violent turf-wars to assert their dominance. Everywhere in the streets, at all hours of the day and night, brutal skirmishes would erupt between groups to see who would rise up above the others to take control as Fort had done. 

"No!"

Consequently, the crime rate skyrocketed in a matter of a few short days, despite the best efforts of the police force and even with the support of the royal guard stationed in the city. There simply was not enough. When the forces of law and order would crack down in one area, two hotspots would flare up due to the lack of police presence. For every police raid, two more gang attacks would be directed at the officers themselves in retaliation. Some larger, more successful crime bosses began to leverage their position within the cities new order to demand payment for 'protection' in their territories. They would easily bleed dry anyone unfortunate enough to live in their areas with a smile on their faces before tossing them out into the dangerous streets and the bosses gained more territory. 

"Sorry, miss Pommel, but you understand, right? These are some tough times. With Canterlot on lockdown and the Equestria's economy hitting rock bottom. You never know when somepony will break into your apartment and steal everything you own. Wouldn't it be better to just pay up front for security, so that doesn't happen?" He tells her with a light chuckle as she openly wept. 

"But you are already have taken everything!" She bawled out, laying on a wooden floor in what had once been her home, now foreclosed. The two stallions were now in possession of everything she ever owned. "If you are even taking my supplies and materials, how I'm supposed to work or even pay you next month?" 

"Not our problem miss, you should have thought about that, before buying such cheap posse~SIONS!" as the thug turned to leave, both he and his partner were yanked into the air and hung there choking for breath with their hooves scrambling to find purchase on something. There were suspended by a powerful aura of magic and could only hang there for a moment before being forced to turn around and face four hooded figures that had made themselves known.

"Normally I would try to defuse the situation with dialogue first, but today has been a particularly long day, so I will keep it short. Yes, I know who you are. Yes, I know who your BOSS is, I'll be going after him next, and please spare me the 'you will regret this and that' speech; you'll be the fifth pair of goons who have told me that. Now out!" a male voice commanded, and before the pair could even protest, both were launched out of the building through an open window and into the streets. 

Once they recovered their breath, they glared back. "You don't know the mistake you just made, I will personally make you-AH!" The goon barely dodged a blast of magic and turned to see a small squad of guards in full battle armor in the entrance of another building. The lead one of which had a telltale swirl of smoke dancing about his horn while others in the squad made ready to do battle. Unicorn horns glowed ominously, pegasus wings unfurled and one particularly burly specimen of an earth pony stallion bent his riot baton in anticipation for the fight to come as they began to close in on the goons. The pair of thugs shared a quick glance and immediately reached an understanding, this was a fight they could not win, and they both knew what to do in that situation. You ran, as fast and hard as you could, which is precisely what they did. 

The hooded pony let out a sigh and groaned once they are gone. "I swear if I have to hear 'I will make you pay' one more time…' "He stopped before looking to Coco Pommel who had crawled into a corner and stayed there shaking like a leaf when everything started. Slowly, the stallion approached her, but that only made her flinch and tremble even more. "NO! Please, just take everything and leave me alone, please don't hurt me!" She pleaded in pure terror until she heard the voice of the stallion.

"We are not here to hurt you, Coco."

"Huh? w-ww-Wha?" Looking up, Coco saw how the stallion pulled off his hood to reveal a weather-worn, and slightly muddy Blueblood, sporting a mullet and some coarse facial hair on his chin.

"We're here to help."

She sniffled a couple of times before launching herself at him and hugs him tightly. "Your Highness!" she cried out before renewing her sobs.

"Wow, hey! Easy there." Blueblood complained, not prepared for this reaction. 

"I was So scared! those ponies have tormented everypony on the block for weeks, I really thought I was going to lose everything!" She croaked out to him in between sobs, not able to contain her emotions anymore.

"Looks like we have another hugger," Hurricane remarked, revealing her face as well.

After hearing her, the ex-prince smiled and returns Coco's hug, letting her emotions run there course, occasionally patting her back and whispering comforting words to comfort her. "There, there. It all over now, everything will be fine real soon."

Once she recovered, Coco let him go and cleaned her face a little. "B–but your highness, how are you going to…?"

He silenced her by lifting his hoof. "Before I explain, perhaps it would be better if you stopped calling me that. Remember I lost my title; I'm no longer a prince."

"Told you that they will keep calling you that!" Pudding Head grinned as she revealed her face too. She, as well as her friends, decided to accompany Blueblood into the city without their usual attire, in an attempt to not attract too much attention.

Coco could only blink as Blueblood sighed while the mare next to him chuckled at all that was happening. She was sure that she had never seen any of the mares with the Prince and yet, there was something very familiar about them. Something that she couldn't put her hoof on. 

"Coco?"

She snapped back to reality when Blueblood asked her name. "S-sorry, what were you saying?"

"I was asking, where do you want us to put all your stuff?" He inquired while levitating a coffee table and some fabrics back inside the apartment, his friends doing pretty much the same. 

"Oh, dear! Your Highness please you don't need to do…"

"Please, we insist," He told her with a smile. "Besides, you'll need your equipment for the favor I need to ask of you."

"Favor?" She asks, confused. 

The ex-prince face split into a crooked grin as he looked back at her "I have a plan to take back the city from those rats that overstayed their welcome. And for that, I will need your help."

"M-my help?! B-But I'm just a tailor!" She tells in shock. "What can I possibly do of help?"

"You'll see." Platinum answered with a sing-song voice and an impish grin as they keep unpacking all her stuff back inside.

Later that day, and with the help of Coco, the ex-prince held a clandestine meeting with the ponies that they have been rescuing all day long. All of them were eager to hear the plan he had in store. They were all dumbfounded though when instead of laying out a masterful plan leading to their liberation, the ex-prince all but prostrated himself before them pleading for their assistance. 

"Please, help me save Manehattan." He asks them politely as he held his head low. 

"Now wait a minute here, lad." An old stallion approached him with a glare. "You are telling us that you came from who knows where, and beat the living daylights out of our tormentors, AND gathered us all here…just to ask for our help to solve the problem YOU started?"

"That is precisely the long and short of it, yes," Blueblood answered as he looks back at them with some shame. "I will not lie, or make excuses. Corrupt or not, apprehending Fort left a gaping void in the city that caused this problem. And because I was too busy planning a party, I personally contributed to letting this situation become this bad. I can't take back all the harm that you have suffered, but I can make sure it ends."

"And how are you going to do that?"

"The only way I know how," He tells them in confidence. "By crippling them, all of them, beyond recovery. I'm going to make them regret that they ever had the slightest thought about hurting all of you." He declared before sighing before looking at them again. "But I can only do this if you let me help. I know I'm asking a lot, but in order for me to defeat them, I will need you to entrust all of your businesses and assets to me."

The room exploded into a cacophony of jeers, shouts, and insults as everyone voiced their displeasure at once and glared daggers at the ex-prince, who remained silent and calm. Letting them vent their frustration in peace. Coco kept alternating between looking at him and her friends and neighbors. Once the commotion died down, the prince spoke again. "I'm not asking you to hand them over permanently, I'm just asking you to let me... borrow them... I need acting authority. "

"Absolutely, not!" One mare snapped. "It wasn't enough that you ruined Canterlot, now you are here after my flower shop?! Have you no shame, or do you really think we are that stupid?"

"My family has run our storage business for six generations! Tartarus will freeze before we gave it to some snobbish brat that doesn't know how businesses work!"

"Guys..." Coco tried to speak, but she was drowned out by the volume of the protests. 

"You say you want to fix your mistakes, but then you came here and simply ask us to just hoof over everything. Everything that remains of our livelihoods? Of our lives? How is that any different from what those ruffians have done so far?"

"Guys..." Coco tried again.

"At least those criminals were honest when they were robbing us, you are treating us as fools thinking we're just going to hoof over all that you wish, just because you asked!" 

"GUYS!" Coco yelled, finally getting everyone's attention. "What would it matter?" She pleaded with them while walking towards the Prince before addressing her friends. "Have you forgotten what all those criminals have been doing to us? They tell us that we are being protected but what will be the point of paying them if we keep losing everything we own? This morning I almost lost the last of my possessions, and that was possibly the most frightening thing that has ever happened to me. I'm sure more than one of you almost went through the same thing, just today."

Everyone looked down, not particularly wanting to make eye contact or relive the memories.

"Our Prince is just asking for a favor from us, something to save us from this nightmare. Maybe I don't understand it completely, and I think it's a big risk, especially considering everything that he has done, but what other choice do we have? We might lose everything tomorrow when we can't pay with anything else, or worse they will take all that we have built and twist it into something horrible, or just burn it all down for laughs. I don't know you, but I would rather put my business in his hoofs when he asks nicely than let a bunch of strangers take it for themselves by force." She stood firmly by his side. 

"I swear I will return them. Better than ever even, I might never earn your forgiveness for all I have done, but I have to try, and that's why I'm asking you. Trust me with this one." He pleaded once more, lowering his head until it touched the ground. "Please, give me a chance to redeem myself." 

The room remained dead silent until the elder stallion from earlier groaned and shook his head before holding up a hoof "One chance, Blueblood, ONE." He threatened him. "And just because Coco has a point. I'd rather go swinging than show my belly to the manticore. You think you can beat the stuffing out of those ruffians. Break their snouts for me."

"You better take good care of my flowers." The mare reluctantly agreed.

"We stock every Tuesday, I will hunt you down if you try to skip your duties." Another stallion agreed as one by one they all acquiesced to his request. 

"Everypony, Everyone, thank you." He bowed to them in gratitude. "Now, as for the plan. It will be tricky, but if we are working together, I guarantee that we will get rid of all those thugs in no time. But first, we will have to flush them out with a bait that they can't help but chase after" The Prince-in-exile informed them with a smirk as he gestures for everyone to come closer. 

Some days later, using some deft, morally dubious but nonetheless legal, business tactics, the ex-prince was able to not only save every pony from the economic red line but kick start their sales and skyrocket their enterprises of to profitability in record time.

"This…this is impossible," Coco said still in shock as her business kept booming, not only hers but every single enterprise that lent a hoof to Blueblood scheme seemed to be coming back to life in a matter of weeks. Soon, a district that was on the verge of bankruptcy was blooming into a series of economic powerhouses in their respective fields.

She turned to Blueblood who at the time was reading through some papers with a neutral expression, she couldn't help but feel a bit confused and sad. He wasn't expressing it, but she could feel his discomfort. 

"Ah, Prince? Blueblood?" She asks in worry. "Is everything ok?"

"Hmm?" He turns to her. "O-oh yeah, yeah everything is fine is just…this is something really hard for me." He mutters out in shame. 

"You mean because you are putting yourself as bait?" She asks in worry.

"What? Oh, no! I'm not scared of that, is just, that being a business stallion is kind of hard for me."

"What are you talking about? You are doing a magnificent job! At this rate, you could solve the economic crisis in Equestria with one hoof tied behind your back!" She encouraged him with a playful tone, "There is nothing to worry about."

"That is only because you don't know the other side of the coin," Blueblood mumbled to himself. 

"Did you say something?"

"Nothing, nothing. Anyway, things are going well, and we haven't heard of any other gangs operating in the open for a while. That means that the crime bosses must be getting ready for their next move."

"And what is it?" Coco asks him.

At that moment, a mixed group of griffins and unicorns burst in and started to raise hell, tossing around everything they could find to get everyone's attention. "Ok, who is the sack of shit that is causing all of this? Who thinks that he can mess with us?" A unicorn pony yells like a typical mafia goon. 

"Intimidation by show of force." Blueblood sighed in resignation. "Right on cue." He then turned to Coco, "You might want to close your eyes for this part, it might get scary." He mentioned before walking toward the goons.

"Gentlestallions!" He greeted them with a smile.

"Why?" Coco asks but then flinches when her question is answered by Blueblood levitating all the criminals with his magic. She then covered her eyes just as he slammed them into the floor. "So glad you finally visit," Blueblood continued in a cheery voice before all signs of pleasantness fell off of the ex-prince's face, "I have a message for your bosses." He then grabbed a pair of shoes and leaped at them.

What is he doing? There is no way that those industrial boots will fit in...oh. Coco thinks, taking a peek from behind her hoofs before covering her eyes once more, shocked at what happened.

Ok…I stand corrected.



The next day, like clockwork, a reward for Blueblood's head had been placed, in response to this, everyone, guardspony, royal guard and civilian alike, went on the offensive. Launching a massive push back sweeping through the city with a massive cleansing campaign to rid themselves of their foe. They hit all of the gangs and the dominant crime boss's where it hurt the most, using all of the unique tricks and skills that they had their disposal. The amount on Blueblood's head only increased as time went on.


~At 35,000,000 bits~


Groups of criminals tried to assassinate the ex-prince in the dead of night by breaking into the building he was known to be using as a home, only to find an empty room enshrouded in inky darkness. The only light came from a single naked bulb in a hanging lamp, illuminating a single chair with some puddings illuminated by the flickering light. When approaching said treats the would-be assassins froze when all the lights snapped on, and the criminals found themselves without their tools and weapons and inside a jail cell.

"Surprise!" Pudding called from behind them, and when they turned, they watched in horror as the mare slammed shut the reinforced door before trotting away humming a tune and twirling a key around her hoof. Leaving them for the police to come and collect them.


~At 50,000,000 bits~


Thugs and assassins tried to ambush any pony associated with the ex-prince in alleyways, only to be counter ambushed by cops and guards, and if they were really unlucky, they found themselves facing Hurricane alone.

"Oh, what is this? Twenty against little ol' me? That's just not fair…for you." They flinched when they saw the wicked grin she was sporting along with a blood-crazed gleam in her eye. Soon they regretted their decision five times more as five minutes later when they all staggered out of the alley and made best speed towards the nearest police pony, begging and pleading to be locked in a cell, or an asylum, or a trunk. Anywhere where that crazy mare couldn't get to them. 

"Aw, no pony wants a second round?" Hurricane asks, emerging from the alleyway. All the thugs shuddered and hid behind the nearest policepony. 


~At 75,000,000 bits~


Beyond furious one gang tried to kidnap any pony that handed over their businesses to Blueblood out in broad daylight on the open streets, only to find themselves covered in honey each time they tried to snatch one.

"What is this?" One of them asked, confused, and disgusted by the substance.

"Release the fire ants!" They looked around, trying to locate the ex-prince before howling in pain as they were swarmed by the dreadful insects.


~At 90,000,000~ 


Crooked cops and corrupt politicians stepped in and tried to frame the elusive Prince-in-exile, only to be stopped by a squad of guards carrying out an arrest order for them. 

"This is preposterous?! For what? You have nothing on me!"

"Actually they do~" Platinum countered, appearing with two guards and a photo of them receiving bribes from her in disguise. 

"You…you set me up!"

"Don't hate the player, hate the game, dear." She replied with a calm smile. 

"You miserable, little whorse I'm going…!" He stopped abruptly and began to choke when Platinum stuffed a bar of soap in his mouth. 

"Launguage~" She scowled at him while patting his head as hoof cuffs were slapped on the pony. "Just because you are going to jail doesn't mean you can act like a brute in front of a lady." 

Her actions had the additional effect of paralyzing all of the illegal trafficking taking place in the city. Striking a lethal blow to the bank accounts and resources of the dwindling crime lords.


~At 100,000,000~


Enraged beyond all belief, the five remaining crime syndicates called for a truce and planned to join forces to send out one final, massive attack towards the stallion that ruined all of their business enterprises, Blueblood. But when they reached the residential district.….

"Over here!" Blueblood called out, escaping through a tunnel.

"Get him!" One yelled, and they all started firing magic bolts and arrows at him entering the tunnel.

"Nope over here!" He echoed out from behind a corner, and they proceed deeper into the tunnel.

"Here!" Another turn.

"Almost!" They saw his silhouette. 

"Come and catch me!"

They were all apoplectic with rage, but when they reached the end of the tunnel, all of them were poofed into toys and fell to the ground with various squeaks, clanks, and whistles. Taking a moment to gather themselves in their new forms they stopped to look up at a smirking Discord standing behind Blueblood and an army of toddlers. Said army consisted of youngsters from all creatures; ponies, griffins, and even yaks with their mothers. "Look, kids! New toys!"

Discord removed their exit as the ex-prince sent in the preschoolers, who descended on them like a pack of jackals, making all the now toy goons scream like fillies.

"500,000,000,000 bits! Right. Now." Said a crime boss, a unicorn with grey fur and black mane. A scar on his left eye and an elegant blue business suit asked in person to one of his associates in complete desperation.

"You get him yourself!" The goon replied before running away.

End of song 

And so finally, the crime bosses of the five shattered syndicates were forced into a meeting to discuss what to do.

"What the hay is the meaning of this?!" The unicorn demanded while stomping on a piece of a newspaper. "There is no way that, that... pompous brat is giving us this much trouble on his own! One of you is helping him, isn't it? You! Your all traitorous snakes, I would have your heads for this!" waving a hoof towards the other bosses. Most of them took the insult in stride but one, in particular, a minotaur, sitting across from the unicorn boss snorted in disdain. 

"Likely story, pony." the minotaur countered as he stood up and rose to his full height picking up a massive battleaxe that was leaning on the table next to him. "I find it very convenient that the only pony here is attacking the rest of us for being traitors; your whole species are nothing but a bunch of spineless sheep that can't do anything without your oh so mighty princesses anyway. Who is to say that you are not a mere puppet of the bratty Prince, eh?"

"Nucklehead has a point there." A griffon with the attributes of a panther and falcon commented while munching on an apple slice that he carved off with a knife. "Besides, he is simply too stupid to think of betraying us."

"Yeah…hey!"

"Enough!" An anthropomorphic tiger stabbed the table that was in front of all of them with a dagger before addressing the others. "We are here to talk and figure out how to solve this mess, not bicker like a bunch of pussies looking for prom dates." He glared at them. 

"Hmph, who died and make you the leader?" A zebra asks while cleaning his crossbow, which had a quarrel loaded and pointing at the tiger. "Oh, what am I saying? By all means, please. Kill each other, I'll just kill the winner and take over Manehattan myself afterward." He informs the group with a manic smile on his face as they all glare at him.

Their bickering comes to an abrupt end when, out of the shadows around them, the sound of echoing laughter made itself known, and it was approaching. Looking behind them, all the crime bosses see Blueblood approaching the group while wearing a newly made elegant white cape, a jacket interwoven with fine cloth and the telltale glint of silver mail and a matching pair of swords resting comfortably on either shoulder. 

"And here I thought Rarity was dramatic."

"You..." The Minotaur glared at the Prince-in-exile and points at the Prince with his axe. "Give me one reason why shouldn't I rip you in half, right…" He halted his threat in shock when the prince pulled out a wrapped bundle from underneath his cloak and tossed at his hooves, spilling out its contents. The bundle contained the shattered and broken remains of four other axes eerily similar to the one he held now in his hand, recognizing the weapons for what they were the Minotaur snapped his eyes back to Blueblood. 

"Please, let's skip all this, shall we? I have already heard enough death threats and attempts to intimidate me to last a lifetime." He confides in them with a tired sigh. 

"Those are my Lieutenant's weapons! What did you…?"

"Relax, they were still breathing when I left…I think. Anyway, they are in custody right now." He then addressed the others. "As well as yours. So don't even bother calling them."

He casually informed the group, stopping in front of the Minotaur.

"You. Are. Bluffing." The unicorn called out. 

"Am I?" He asks them with a quizzical tilt of the head before turning to the minotaur in a frightening display of speed. Reaching up with one hoof to wrap around the hilt of a sword the prince closed in on two hooves, coming into attack from a low angle. The Minotaur barely had time to guard as with one single swift stroke, the Prince-in-exile disarms the bull by cleaving the battleaxes haft in two before somersaulting backward, kicking both halves out of the stunned minotaurs hands. One half spun vigorously through the air before embedding itself into the wooden wall while the other slammed edge first into the desk, splitting it in half before anyone else could react.

The Prince-in-exile completed his movement raising his single sword into a low guard after landing easily on his back hooves with no hint of uneasiness or trembling the prince let out a breath of air once more before neatly sidestepping the minotaur's fist as he attempted to land a haymaker of a punch on the unicorn. Weaving around a second punch, the Prince-in-exile takes aim and fires a concussive magical shot point blank into the Minotaur's neck. The creature collapsed to his knees, clutching his throat and gasping for breath. He barely was able to notice a flicker out of the corner of his eye before he was punched in the jaw with the hilt and reinforced guard of the prince's blade. Spittle and blood flew from the minotaurs mouth as he collapsed down to all fours. The ex-prince then brought up one of his hind hooves and stepped onto the back of the minotaurs neck, pushing him down to the ground as the remaining crime bosses finally overcame their shock and stood, readying their weapons. The zebra fired his quarrel, but the Prince's sword flickered out once more with alarming speed, chopping the projectile in half as it drew near, it was unnerving that the prince did not even flinch as the two severed pieces of projectile whipped right by his face.

"I think your all misreading the situation your in here, gentlemen." The Prince continues conversationally, calmly before getting angry. "The only reason I haven't cut you all into bloody pieces of meat is a matter of courtesy and an opportunity for you to surrender." He leaned even harder on to his one hoof, starting to choke the Minotaur. "You can't scare me, you can't extort me, and you can't terrorize my friends!"

Blueblood charged his horn and channeled it down to his back hoof, as he removed it from the back of the minotaurs neck before bringing the hoof around to kick him bodily across the room towards the rest of the criminals. The wet crack of ribs breaking echoed throughout the room adding weight to the prince's words, "So let this be my one and only act of kindness." He pointed to the group with his sword. "Since you all have so graciously donated the entirety of your fortunes, holdings, and properties to the crown, I will give you one day's head start to leave the kingdom and never return."

"We what?!" The griffon screeched at him in rage as the Prince smiled tauntingly back at him before laughing once more. "Oh, sorry, you didn't know? After all, you were already providing a service to the crown by protecting its citizens, and you wouldn't even hear our offer of compensation and instead suggested that we pay you in Pyrite as a form of a present."

In alarm, the griffon took out a pouch of gold he was carrying and pulled a coin only to see that it was just a rock veined with the worthless iron sulfide. "Yeah, I might have charged you a bit too much, but hey, that is something you are more than familiar with, right? After all..." the prince's demeanor turned deadly serious again. "You really loved doing the same to everyone here."

"You son of a…!" The griffon launches himself into the air his talons blurring back and forth to sheaths on his body before snapping forwards, each time releasing a series of wickedly sharp throwing knives, but the Prince dodges and weaves through the barrage, and then charges forward to intercept the falling griffon unsheathing his second sword. The griffon screeches once more before diving in talons outstretched to rend and tear. The griffon never stood a chance, the prince parried the griffon's outstretched limbs off to the side and then flowed around his new opponent the twin swords single edges glowing like molten silver and the blurred through the air. The griffon slammed down hard on to the ground, barely able to maintain his footing while desperately looking around to find his pray. But his search came to an abrupt end when a searing pain tore its way up from his hindpaw as the prince drove one of his swords through the limb and into the floor, quite literally pinning the griffon in place before removing the blade. The prince then proceeded to lacerate his way up one of the griffon's flanks like a demented buzzsaw from the deepest pits of Tartarus finishing with a brutal crossing slash to the griffon's chest and shoulders. The Griffon collapsed to the ground mewling in pain. "Now this is what's going to happen. You all are going to get out Equestria right now, or I will break all each and every one of your bones, I will paint this room with your blood and then clean it up with your carcasses, and then I will make you crawl all the way from here to Canterlot!"

The others try to retaliate but he jumps back, and they only hit the griffon, sending him flying toward a nearby wall and knocking him out cold. 

"Last chance, ladies." The Prince threatened. "Leave now, or I will toss you into a jail cell on a stretcher." 

Minus the zebra who decided to make a run for it, all of them howled out battle cries before launching an attack. 

The Prince smiled and prepares his swords. 

"Stretcher, it is." He jumps toward them, charging his swords with magic as they meet with the clash of steel. The unicorn tried to blast him with his magic only for the Prince to deflect the bolt of magic with a sword. Blueblood then charged his own horn and creates a wave of magic that launched his two adversaries into the air before he suspending them there with his telekinesis. The ex-prince smile takes on a maniacal tone before turning into a sneer as he floats them closer to regard them much like one would regard a particularly disgusting slug. It was at this moment that the two began to feel something that they had not felt in a long time, Fear.

"You can't do this, you were supposed to be nothing but a snobbish brat, a brat!" The unicorn cried out in disbelief of what was happening.

"Perhaps, but I'm the brat that beat you." The Prince proclaimed with a deadly cold tone before blinking as his eyes began to glow ominously. "AIso, I wasn't kidding." the wicked smile returned as he lifted his sword. His victims could only gulp and then scream as outside the building any nearby pony would been traumatized by the sounds coming from inside the building. It was not the sounds of breaking glass, bone, and wood that was so terrifying, it was the screams. The screams that seemed to go on forever and get higher and higher in pitch until they were cut short.

The next day at the entrance of Canterlot

Four guards were in the nearing the end of their assigned night shift when suddenly a flash of light caught their attention, and when they turn to see what was happening all of their jaws hit the ground at the sight in front of them. 

Approaching the entrance was the Prince, the pillars, and a platoon of soldiers along with three wagons filled to the brim with gold and treasure. Behind the wagon watched over by the sharp eyes and sharper spears of a detachment of guards, crawled four of the five crime bosses of Manehatten. They could barely move from their injuries and the weight of the chains that shackled them together as they collapsed in exhaustion once they reached the gates.

"Good morning gentlestallions, don't mind us, we are simply bringing all the money I owe the crown, three times over, to help solve the crisis we have, plus some rats that thought Equestria was easy prey." He informs them while gesturing at his prisoners. "Don't worry, I have their arrest warrants and a comprehensive list of their crimes right here." The Prince tells them as Hurricane passes one of the guards the arrest profile of each of the prisoners to them.

The guards blink at one another, unsure of what to think or do in this situation. The cat crawled toward one of them. "Please…just lock me up…get me away from... h-h-he's a monster!" He pleaded, completely terrified. "I-I confess, I'm criminal just please…take me away from that thing!"

Unnerved by the self confessed criminal's actions and even more confused by the Prince's calm smile the Corporal in charge of nodded slowly and began to take gesture for the others to assist the returned royal and his cadre. Before moving to speak to the prince. But before he could voice his own words, the prince spoke with a tone that brooked no argument. 

"Now BRING ME JET SET!" The Prince ordered with the booming base of his very own Canterlot Royal Voice. The pre-dawn night seemed to fade blacker as the words echoed out, laced with so much anger and vitriol. The guard could not help but feel somewhat terrified of just what had returned to the capitol but shrugged the pompous nit has it coming' 

The guard thought to himself before stepping aside.
> The Gloating Vanity (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The uproar of the citizens filled the castle walls, as all of Canterlot gathered to witness a duel like no pony had ever seen in over a thousand years. That morning, the princesses were in complete bliss over the news that their nephew had returned home. Him arriving with a solution to the current crisis to boot was just icing on the cake. It was only natural that they wanted to see him as soon as possible. Yet, their jubilations came to a sudden halt. Before either of the two royals had a chance to go even speak with their nephew, a guard entered the throne room with news that left them in complete shock. 

"He did what?!" Both princesses bellowed with enough force that it pushed the guard back several inches before he had the chance to elaborate. 

In an unthinkable turn of events, Blueblood had gone ahead and confronted Jet Set. Though, instead of demanding a fight right there and then, he offered him the chance to determine the conditions and outcomes of said fight, something understandable and very mature to do. The primary point of contention appeared to be in where their nephew would acknowledge his past sins as well as the slight issue of him returning home without atoning for all the crimes attributed to him. Instead of spending hours quibbling over details and minutiae, the prince offered a simple, if somewhat preposterous deal. One in which, with the two small stipulations of the fight taking place at sundown and total freedom on their magic. Jet Set was allowed to bring not only his wife to fight alongside him, but they could also use any magical artifacts they wish to bring without any restrictions whatsoever. 

Needless to say, everyone was more than a little confused. Both princesses were more than eager to protest and change such absurd conditions, but the terms had been reached, and the damage was already done. The conditions were accepted by both parties, so there was nothing they could do or say about it.

After that, there was just a matter of waiting for the arena to be prepared in the middle of the city as the combats were compelled to wait and prepare. Both parties were given assigned tents, where they would be kept under surveillance and guarded until the fight started. The royal sisters tried to approached Blueblood at this time, but controlling their citizens while everything was put into place took all of their attention. As sunset finally cast its evening glow and the fight was only minutes from starting the princesses were finally able to see the one they had sought all day.

As the hour of truth and battle grew near, the ex-prince kept looking at the entrance of his tent occasionally while the founders kept him company. 

"Nervous?" Pudding asked, breaking the silence as the prince looked to her before nodding once. 

"It's always the hardest part, you know? The wait. That's part of why I asked the duel to happen at sundown. It's a small dose of psychological warfare for Jet Set. Unfortunately, it’s a bit of a double-edged sword." He explained to them with a sigh before looking at the tent's entrance once more with worry painting his features. "I just hope I didn't upset my aunts with this stunt too much. I feel awful keeping them in the dark like this"

"Harsh, yet necessary Rookie," Hurricane commented, "We needed to keep them guessing for this plan to work, and the princesses were more than necessary." She explains. "Now we got into the heads of those sons of…"

"Hurricane!" Platinum scowled at her before the military pegasus was able to finish her thought.

"…ponies, and we've made sure that we are prepared for anything they might try." She resumed with anticipation.

The prince nodded and mentally prepared himself for the incoming battle. It was in that moment that the tent flaps were drawn back and allowed both of the princesses to enter shortly after they stopped at the sight of their royal nephew. 

The room went silent for a second as Blueblood took several steps closer towards Celestia, unsure of what to do or say after what he had done. After a moment of deliberation, he decided to bend the knee, but before he could start... 

"Your…"

"Don't!" Celestia commanded, halting his actions as he looks back up to her, as she looked down at him with a stern gaze and teary eye. "Title or not, I will be damned before I let any member of my family bow to me ever again!" She exclaimed before smiling and closing the distance between them, bringing him in close for a group hug with Luna. "The only thing that we care about right now is knowing that you have finally returned home, dear nephew." Luna whispered with a smile. 

"I'm happy to be back too." Blueblood replied, returning the gesture in equal measure and enjoying the affections of his aunts.

"I just wish this would have been under better circumstances." Luna commented, ending the hug "Nephew, why did you agree to such ridiculous conditions during this duel?" She asked worryingly. "If you wanted to atone for your misdeeds, I would understand, but there were certainly better alternatives. What you offered them was simply ridiculous with how big of a disadvantage it leaves you!"

The prince sighed and looked down. "I'm sorry. It was the only way that I could think of that would make them take the bait."

"Bait?" The sisters' question in unison, confused by that statement.

"Those two clearly have no shame or honor when it comes to combat and are willing to cheat and use dirty tactics in order to win." Blueblood stated factually. "but if you give them a scenario where it looks like they simply can't lose, you ensure that they will not try anything." He explains to them. 

"By making the fight two against one, and allow them to bring any magical artifacts that they wish?" Celestia questions in surprise, still trying to understand the logic behind her nephew's words. 

"It really looks like I'm at a disadvantage, does it not?" He smirks at them. 

"And you aren't?" Luna asked with a raised eyebrow as her nephew shook his head. "Why did you think I requested the duel to be at sundown and for no limits on the use of magic?" He informed them with confidence as a uniformed guard entered the tent. 

"Everything is ready, your majesties."

"And that is my cue." Blueblood sighed before smiling and looking to Celestia. "Have faith in me aunties, I promised not to let you down."

"Just please be careful and don't underestimate your opponents, please." She pleaded, still worried as she watched him depart. 

"Relax Celly." Hurricane called out, catching the royal sisters attention for the first time as the founders left the tent as well. "We trained your boy up real good, he is going to mop the floor with the faces of those plot-holes." She exclaimed confidently. The royal siblings blinked a couple of times at that crude comment as they process the voice of that mare, finding it oddly familiar. 

The guard cleared his throat, bringing them back to reality. "You highnesses? Are you coming?"

"Oh, y-yes, we are going," Celestia answered for them both. Both leave to lower and raise their respective celestial bodies, and then to take their own seats as the duel was about to start.

As the last rays of the sun illuminated the arena, the prince took a moment to admire the place. Unlike his previous improvised duel in the royal garden, this one had all the preparations and trappings of a formal duel. The foremost of which was a domed cage placed in the middle of the plaza on top of a waist-high wall, (most likely enchanted with all of the different spells needed for this event). Three giant statues of none other than the founders stood guard around the dome, erected in a triangular pattern. Their stony, eternal gazes set to watch over the center of the arena. Lastly, set into alcoves in each statues base and recesses running along the base wall, locked behind a multitude of enchantments and protective spells, sat a plethora of crowns. Each one unique and a stunning work of art, they were all fashioned in the style of the tribe represented by the founder they were closest to. They rested there likely as some sort of reminder of previous rulers that went through the same. Overall the place looked epic. With the addition of a euphoric audience and the rulers as spectators, Blueblood couldn't help but feel like he just stepped into the Coliseum at the height of the Roman Empire.

I bet the statues were Princess Platinum’s idea The Ronin allowed himself a moment to chuckle at the idea of her commissioning the figures and forcing her friends to not move for hours for the sculptors. His train of thought was soon interrupted when he heard the familiar voice of Jet Set, who alongside his wife just entered the dome.

"Well, if it isn't the infamous prince, gracing us with his presence." Jet spoke with venom in his voice, both he and his wife clad in gold and silver plated armor that positively hummed with magic. Both were carrying rapiers as their chosen weapons. "I'll be honest, part of me thought that you would have turned tail and run away as fast as your hooves could carry you. Still trying to prove that your something other than a coward and a criminal, eh?" He mocked before drawing his sword in order to point at Blueblood. "Now I see that I was overestimating your intelligence! Is that really what you are going to wear for our fight?" He asked, referring to the tailored three-piece white suit and cape that the ex-prince was currently wearing, forgoing the mail he had worn in Manehatten for this fight. "And here I was thinking that you put on those conditions on yourself out of shame and guilt when in reality you were just acting like your usual narcissistic, egomaniacal, moronic self!" Jet Set then started to laugh.

"Now, now dear, let's be nice" Upper Crust stopped him before addressing Blueblood. "It not his fault for not knowing anything of the art nor the intricacies that a true duel entails." She simpers with a smug smile as she waits for a response but other than a casual glance, the ex-prince remained silent. 

"What, no response? No sarcastic quip? No perfectly timed one-liner? Not even an attempt at a comeback? What is the matter, Ronin? This morning you couldn't stop talking about honor and taking responsibility for your actions. Did you finally realize the huge mess that sense of honor got you in after all?" Jet Set needled once more, but once again, the ex-prince didn't give him any reply. In fact, he wasn't even looking at them, as his attention was solely focused on the thrones where his family was going to sit. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy sitting next to them, one clearly worried and the other avoiding eye contact with him. 

"Blueblood! face me!" Jet Set demanded, starting to get annoyed by the ex-princes flat dismissal, and still, the prince didn't budge.

"I said face…!"

"…Enough!" Blueblood commanded, finally facing the couple with a glare before sighing as his fearsome expression melted into a look of pity. Shaking his head, the prince began. "Just stop it you two, you are just wasting your breath trying to provoke me and to be honest, it’s just sad now."

"What?" Jet asked, confused and angry by the way that the ex-prince was looking at them now. 

"Just look at yourself, look where you are right now, what have you provoked?" He listed out, pointing at the cage around them "If your problem and form or redress had been with only me, that would have been fine. I would have listened, heck maybe I would have agreed to your demands. To a degree, You were right, I was an egotistical brat who only thought of himself and got what he deserved." He confessed, looking down in shame, before looking back at him with seriousness. "But dragging down everyone else? Throwing subtlety out the window, just so everyone could see your grand act of 'heroism'!?" He continued making air quotes at the title. "Do you have ANY idea of what that stunt of yours almost caused to happen to Equestria?!" He was now getting agitated. "How much damage you did, just because you envy me and wanted attention?"

"Do not lecture me about seeking attention, Ronin!" Jet retorted angrily. "You are the last pony in Equestria that has any right to say anything about hogging the spotlight. Just because you grew a conscience doesn't mean you have the moral high ground." He finished, anger boiling deep within him.

"Yes, we might have tampered with your weapon during our first duel. But how is that any different from what you have been doing for years without any sort of punishment?" Upper Crust questioned before starting to list. "Drug trafficking, embezzlement, fraud, destruction of public and private property, perjury, gross abuse of power, mental, social, and physical harm of royal subjects, the list goes on. You compare all of that to us, and we come up as saints. You are not a prince or a noble! You don't even qualify as a decent pony, Blueblood." She tells with a glare. "The only thing you are, and will always be, is a spoiled brat that thinks the world revolves around you. One who has never faced any sort of punishment for his actions and that simply is not fair."

"Even now, when all we did was rightfully demand and ensure justice. We are the ones seen as the villains?! It’s ridiculous! It's a joke! It's a sham that even though I'm a better stallion than you, one who EARNED his position when you simply inherited yours. That you can stand there and think that you can preach to me. I'm much better suited to be a prince, you had your time in the spotlight, but you squandered it, and now it was supposed to my turn. MINE!"

"Upper Crust, Jet Set, two wrongs, don't make a right. You are right, I was scum back then, but I'm trying to change! I really am, the only thing I ask is a chance to prove it." 

"You had enough chances! And as far as we are concerned, the only one responsible for this mess is you!" He accused him while pointing at the ex-prince with his hoof. "And since apparently everyone else is too cowardly to say what we all are thinking…" Jet glared at the audience. "…I will come up and say it, no matter what you do, you will never be worthy of the crown you flaunt about wearing. You who always had to stand out. Well, you certainly stand out like a sore horn when portrayed next to your family!" He says with a smirk. "Princess Celestia is the Princess of the day, Princess Luna, of the night, their niece is the Princess of Love. Hay, one of Princess Celestia's freaking students is the Princess of Friendship!" He continued on his tirade. "And then there is you... how exactly are you related to our rulers, to begin with? You're just a pathetic excuse of a unicorn. A snob without any titles, and no real magical power or even wings, Twilight is more a part of the Royal Family that you would ever be, in fact, why don't you come clean and admit it, you are ad…"

Before he could end that sentence, Jet Set's words died in his throat. A new feeling sprang up in Jet Sets soul as the air became still and silent as the temperature plummeted. The Prince's expression was one of carefully disciplined neutrality, but the aura that surrounded Blueblood was absolutely apocalyptic. Jet Set blinked, and in that instant, the noble stallion felt himself being turned inside out and ripped to pieces. His skin was flayed from his flesh, and his hooves were cut from his body. He was left screaming in the puddle of his own blood as the crowd around jeered and the prince keep his stern glare. Gasping for a breath, Jet Set opened his eyes wide as a cold bead of sweat ran down his spine. He shivered as endorphins thundered through his body and mind. Leaving him oddly giddy from the complete and utter lack of pain. Had he just imagined it that terrible, sickening feeling? It took all of a moment and a glance at Blueblood to understand, but the moment it did the message was seared into Jet Set's soul. To speak on that subject in Bluebloods presence was a grisly death sentence. It was a line that no pony who wished to live should never cross.

Recovering Jet Set remained quiet as his wife spoke again. "Honestly, blaming all your faults on us Blueblood? NOW that is just sad, and immature, is that really the type of prince you wish to be?" Upper Crust taunted him once more.

The prince sighed and shook his head in sadness. "As I said, just a waste of breath, I would feel pity for you if you weren't so pathetic." He started to chuckle " now that I think about it. It's kind of funny actually. Here you are accusing me of being a coward, yet you both decide to confront me, a weak duelist and 'pathetic excuse for a unicorn', hiding behind two full harness's of armor that each has more protective magic woven into it then the Royal Vault and Princess Celestia's Warplate combined, and yet there you quiver; behind your wife’s tail. All the while, spouting empty words about privilege and fairness and the art of a duel? I take it back, it is hilarious!" He tells them as he bursts into laughter. "It really is!"

"What?! Why you…!" Jet was about to attack him when Upper Crust stopped him. "I'm glad you find it amusing Ronin. We will see if you can keep laughing after we prove to Equestria once again how pathetic you really are, and how we are better suited for the title of royalty." She concludes while shooting Jet Set a small glare as if to tell him to calm down. 

"My apologies," He tells once the laughter died down and cleaned one of his eyes, "Did that offend you?"

Upper Crust breathed through her nose in response, clearly agitated, as the three of them remained quiet and waited patiently for the arrival of the princesses, something to their relief, didn't take too long. As both princesses soon arrived and took their respective seats, Celestia took a glance a Blueblood, while still worried, she nodded to herself and, alongside Luna, began to addressing everyone using the booming echo of the Royal Canterlot Voice. 

"Citizens of Canterlot!" Their voices alone are enough to shake everything nearby. 

Wow, now that is one impressive set of lungs Blueblood thought, clearly impressed by the force of their voices.

"Today we gather to put an end to the feud between the noble couple of Jet Set and Upper Crust and the former Prince of Equestria, Blueblood, using trial by duel. With the additional conditions agreed upon by both parties" Luna explained before looking at the combatants, and after sighing, she continued "As such, the final outcome of this duel will not be determined by us, but by the founders themselves."

Wait, what? Blueblood looked to his aunts in surprise before calming down when he understood that Luna was referring to the statues and not the mares in question.

"Created by Commander Hurricane herself, and maintained as a reminder that no pony is above the law, this duel serves as proof that in the eyes of the founders we are all equals, and our true strength lies in our determination. Not our upbringing, or financial status" Celestia continued "Combatants, as your mock battle did, this dome will prevent any fatal wounds, and its healing properties are even stronger, to the point were not even scars will remain " She paused for a moment as a troubled expression flashed across her eyes before disappearing. She then continued. "Any wounds will heal immediately, including the cutting of one’s horn, but don't let that fool you, any pain you suffer will be doubled, and all mental scaring will be permanent, so keep that in mind before letting yourself been stabbed." She warned them with a severe expression. 

When they nod, Luna takes over once more.

"As agreed, the duel will officially start when the sun completely sets and will end, once one of the content…when either, our nephew or his opponent's surrenders, is…or are rendered unable to continue, or fall unconscious. Any opportunities to surrender the fight will be granted, and any form of cheating will not be tolerated." She glared at the couple threateningly. "Combatants, do you understand?"

"Yes," They all answer while keeping their eyes on their opponents. 

"Good, then prepare yourself!”

The noble couple took up their stances and Jet smirks when he notices Blueblood quickly shifted his weight back on to his two hind hooves while his horn ignited, causing two swords to fly out from their scabbards. Landing quickly in Bluebloods now free forehooves. The prince twirled the blades quickly in his hooves, his lips moving but no words came from them. "Do you even know how to use those?"

Blueblood ignores him as he prepares, the flourishing blades stop, and so does the princes' silent conversation. Turning to face his opponents Blueblood bowed to them both before adopting a guard.

Better don't take any chances dear, let's hit him without pulling any punches Upper Crust opened up the mental communication with her husband.

Usually, I would argue, but I'm sick and tired of the kiddy moves, let’s beat him to a bloody pulp. He answered in agreement with his wife as they too prepared and enchanted their hoofs for an extra boost.

The tension was palpable as everything went quiet, the audience paying attention to the ground as the last rays of sun started to fade away until they vanish entirely. 



"Begin!" Luna commanded as both parties launched themselves at each other with everything they had. To their shock, it seemed like they had the same idea of coating their weapons with magic, as sparks started to fly everywhere from the contact before they lept back. 

So that is what happens when magic coated object clash? Cool

The prince mused over what happened when Llamrai and Hengroen clashed with the nobles rapiers. Before adopting a more defensive posture as the Jet Set and Upper Crust launched a series of coordinated attacks. All the while separating to draw away his attention to provide an opening that the other could capitalize on. Llamrai and Hengroen hissed through the air in a frenzied dance of steel parrying and reposting, twisting and winding. Always seeking but not yet finding gaps in his opponents' defenses. Shifting around and weaving his way through a series of thrusts, Blueblood extracted himself from the increasingly dangerous location between the married duelists before trapping Jet Sets blade between Llamrai's guard and edge applying pressure and the surprise generated by the move Blueblood turned and placed Jet Set firmly in between himself and Upper Crust. For the moment the fight was one on one, and there Blueblood had the advantage, levering Jet Sets rapier out of the way, he brought Hengroen down hard, point first on Jet Sets mailed neck. Though the armor's enchantments held firm and the tip of the blade skittered off like a hoof on polished ice. Not even touching the mail and sending up a shower of magical sparks in the process.

From the balcony of a nearby building, Scarlet watched on as everything unraveled with rapt interest. My, my somebody has been a busy bee. She sighed dreamily while watching the fight. My sweet beefcake just got spicier.

What in the hay? Since when does Blueblood know how to parry? Never mind countering like that!  Upper Crust exclaimed as she ran up her husbands back and lept off, lashing out with a rapid series of powerful thrusts to drive the prince back away from her Jet Set. She could feel her husbands shock with how Blueblood had managed to keep up with them both.

As if it will matter, the only thing that changes is that now I will enjoy this Jet smirks and slashes out with the wicked point of his rapier towards the ex-princes legs, capitalizing on his wife's ariel assault. The prince moves to avoid the blow but is caught off guard when Jet Sets blade rapidly shifts off-line and launches straight up towards his torso. A feint! Llamrai was occupied with Upper Crust's attack...and Hengroen was just a fraction of a second too slow. Pushing the deceptive thrust away but not completely. Jet Set's blade found its target high and left, stopping Blueblood in his tracks. Jet’s grinned with this victory. However, it was short-lived as Blueblood only met Jet Sets smile with a knowing smirk, before smashing him in the ribs with the pommel and guard of Llamrai. 

The air left Jet sets lungs in a rush as the assault continued. To say that Jet Set was surprised would be an understatement as he failed to react as more and more blows came. Enchantments failed and armored plate buckled from the rapid series of devastating impacts. It was only when the prince brought his other blade down across Jet sets now vulnerable hindleg parting mail padding and flesh with ease. Ever the opportunist, Upper Crust closed in to attack the Princes unguarded back which forced the prince to redirect his focus to push her back. Retreating as quickly as his injured leg and battered ribs would allow him, Jet grit his teeth to keep from howling in pain as he felt the damage start to repair itself. Finding himself still unable to breathe, the stallion came to a realization and his growled out a curse and began using his magic to extract the ruined pieces of plate from his person. After loosening buckles and removing several pins, the damaged breastplate fell free before clanging off the ground. The noise of which must have attracted the princes' attention because Bluebloods head snapped around to focus on Jet Set alone. The pair's eyes met for only a moment before the prince ducked underneath a thrust and scooped Upper Crust off of her hooves before dumping her down hard onto the ground with a thunderous crash. The Noble Stallions eyes widened, and he only managed to bring his rapier up into a defensive posture as the prince closed and began to go on the offensive. Blueblood unleashed a rapid barrage of slashes, cuts, and thrusts, always moving to attack from off of Jet Sets Centerline. The prince would punctuate his bladework every so often with a strong kick the first of which clipped the cheek guard of Jet Sets helm, ringing it like a bell.

Horseshoes... some small part of Jet Set's stunned mind noted. Shaking his head to clear that stupid thought and the ringing in his ears, Jet Set desperately held out, striking out only when there was no chance of another blow of the princes landing. Even then though they seemed to not even phase Blueblood. 

What is happening? I'm sure my strikes are landing, then why, why isn't he even flinching?! Jet thought as he began to panic. Leaning sharply to the side Jet Set watched as his the tip of his wife's rapier appeared from Blueblood’s stomach, almost impaling him in the eye, the surprise though allowed for him to retreat and compose himself. Jet looked up as he heard screams of horror coming from Celestia in the royal booth. Looking back to Blueblood and his wife he saw Upper Crust landed yet another piercing thrust into the princes back. This time the blade exited right through Bluebloods heart. It was ghoulishly fascinating how the ex-prince still remained completely calm while impaled as he was. Blueblood regarded the blade for a moment before wrapping both hooves around it and jerked it forward, pulling Upper Crust off balance. The impaled stallion then swiftly jerked left before spinning around to his right lashing out with a kick that connected with Upper Crust's head and helmet. The blow dislodged Upper Crusts Grip on her blade and spun the mare around. By the time she had found her opponent once again, she ducked beneath a scissoring Llamrai and Hengroen. Only to meet a rising knee with her snout. Staggering back and spitting a gob of blood out of her mouth Upper Crust surprised blueblood by stepping into one of his slashes, wrapping her hooves around his leg and torquing the joint in an attempt to break the limb. Her armor was not nearly as damaged as her husbands, and Blueblood could not waste time battering down her defenses when she could snap his leg like a twig. So, he took the third option. Channeling magic to his lungs and mouth, Blueblood unleashed a piercing, magically amplified whistle directly into Upper Crust's ear. The sound was such that it doubled as a concussive force and impacted with the power of the sonic cannon. Upper Crust was flung back into the cage wall where she slumped bonelessly to the ground. She lay there, staring at the prince with a confused look on her face for a moment. Though as blood began to pool out of her ear, a hoof shot up to her helmet as the pain and ringing of the healing process set in. 

Jet remained silent as the prince slowly removed the sword on his body, still unaffected, adding more to his surprise until he noticed a small glow on his clothing and saw a glimpse of some kind of letter on the area where the prince was stabbed. 

Wait? Are those… His eyes wide and linked his mind with Upper Crust He's using arcane runes!

What? Upper asked, after flinching from his yell, while at the same time still waiting for the ringing and pain in her ears to go fade. 

Those clothes, they're more than just a costume! He enchanted them with arcane runes, that's why none of our hits are having any effect. That outfit is deflecting physical attacks! He explains before smirking Which means…  He charges again with his sword, but before their weapons clash, Jet disengages and blasts Blueblood with a magic pulse wave. The prince blinked as the spell hit his chest and sent him flying. The runes on his clothes flaring with magical energy as they attempted to dissipate the force that they were put under as Blueblood bounced off the ground before rolling to a stop. That magic attacks can land!

"I knew it!" Jet Set announced to the crowd triumphantly, "So that is how you did it, don't you?" Charging his weapon with magic, Jet went back on the offensive. Finally, his rapier managed to land telling blows against Blueblood.

"Each time a crook tried to hit you, your outfit saved your sorry flank, didn't it?" Their weapons clash and more sparks fly everywhere before Jet used his magic again to turn the ground underneath Blueblood into grasping claws of stone and try to grab him. Blueblood responded in kind by breaking them all with a magically charged hoof-stomp on the ground.

"That is how you managed to win against those criminals. Not because of sheer skill or mind games! You won because you were using cheap tricks!" Jet accused Blueblood as he charged his horn to teleport repeatedly around Blueblood, landing even more blows. 

"I should have known, that what you always do. You're so lazy and cowardly that you could not even fathom the idea of getting injured! So tell me Ronin, what poor soul did you use to get those clothes? Or perhaps, did you just decide to steal them, eh? Confess!" 

Finally getting angry, Blueblood lashed out, and sucker punched Jet Set in the teeth the moment he appeared. Throwing him off balance and leaving him on a daze. "You are wrong!" The Ronin launched an electric clone from his form that tackled Jet Set, taking him by surprise. Pinning and paralyzing him long enough for Blueblood to charge and ram Jet into the bars of the dome. Applying ever-increasing pressure to ensure that Jet Set could not use his sword. "This outfit is more than a nice suit Jet Set. For me, it represents the faith, will, and support that all the citizens of Manehattan gave me when I begged them for a chance to redeem myself. It's their way to help ME send a message to any criminal who tries to hurt my family's kingdom ever again. And that is something that no blade will ever be able to pierce." Blueblood snarled out in Jet Sets face. who smirked. 

"What a sweet thought, let us test it then," Jet Set quipped which confused Blueblood before the light of realization sparked in the princes' mind. The ex-prince just began to turn to face the approaching threat only for Upper Crust impale him with her charged horn. The magically charged keratin glanced off his ribs before she unleashed the stored concussive blast directly into the prince. The prince was sent spiraling away, screaming in pain. Landing with a sickening squelch, Blueblood rolled and howled as he bled from the wound.

"Well what do you know, it CAN be pierced after all." Upper Crust commented while panting. Her husband chuckled and walks toward his wife.

"So much for the faith and support of commoners." Jet called out with a smirk as he regarded the Ronin who was now glaring at the pair before slowly standing up while holding his closing wound. "You know what? I take it back, that outfit does suit you. After all, it's just like you; weak, dubious, and filled with holes!" He mocked before charging his horn and shooting a blast that Blueblood barely managed to dodge before been intercepted by five exact copies of Jet Set all charging at once, they were quickly dealt with by Llamrai and Hengroen, but one of them managed to land a small cut on his right hoof.

The blades of the copies can pierce me? Damn it, it probably because they are made of solid magic. The prince observes as he is forced to retreat further back to avoid getting hit with another spell. Unfortunately, the final clone let itself be run through so it could grapple Blueblood, stopping him in his tracks and preventing him from using his weapons.

"Don't forget about me!" Upper Crust demanded, charging once more with her rapier as a mist swirled up around her entire body. Blueblood tried to stop her attack while summoning a magic shield to block her, but she pierces through with ease.

That mist cancels magic? The Ronin exclaimed mentally but was too late. Upper Crust managed to hit him with a magic blast that finished the clone and left the Ronin exposed for a series of deep lacerations on his chest that sent him flying once again only to be received by Jet Set. Who electrifies his weapon and dragged the edge of his sword over and through Blueblood’s eyes before kicking him in the back. The prince screamed as he collapsed. Blinded, however temporarily, the prince  squirmed and tossed on the ground in pain while weeping blood. 

Upon seeing this malicious treatment of their nephew. The princesses were about to throw the rules and traditions of the duel to the wind and intervene when Discord stopped them. Unpopping into existence between the two and grabbing their shoulders. "No! My boy is not out yet!" He shouts out, looking suspiciously like Don King as he did so.

"Discord, what are you saying?! He is blind, an in extreme pain, not to mention that any minute now he will fall unconscious from the pain once the dome starts to heal his eyes!" Celestia protested. Shaking off Discords paw.

"We need to stop this before that happens!" Luna added in, agreeing wholeheartedly with her equally worried sister

"Do it, and you would lose him forever!" Discord argued back. 

"What?" Both sisters look at Discord, concern apparent.

"Isn't that the objective of this fight? For him to come back home?" He asked, rhetorically. "Trust me, he can handle it, I trained him rather well this last month."

That caught the diarchs attention as they concern slowly shifted to anger as they glared at the draconequus. "You mean to tell us that all this time you had our nephew and didn't tell us?!" Celestia asks as her rage increased. 

"Ah, Ah! Eyes on the duel" Discord tells placing a finger on her cheek and moving it back towards the dome. "Trust me, you don't want to miss this part.” He tells them as Blueblood, despite the pain he was currently going through, manages to stand using Llamrai as a crutch while shaky hooves and lift Hengroen to guard.

"This isn't it over Discord." Celestia warned him as she and Luna sat back on their thrones again.

"I have to applaud his tenacity, wouldn't you agree, honey? No matter how pointless it is at this point, he just keeps standing up." Upper Crust crowed before shaking her head.

"Don't bother honey." Jet approaches the ex-prince. "This idiot was always too stubborn to admit defeat." He sent another magical blast, which Blueblood manages to block most of before his shield spell failed, shattering and allowing for some of the spell to connect, throwing the princes shoulder back and forcing him to take a step back. "You really don't know when to quit, do you Ronin?" Jet laughed and shook his head. 

"In fact, it's not just me experiencing a small sense of deja-vu here? If I remember correctly, this is exactly what happened last time we fought." Jet Set teased as he combined magic with his wife. Together, they kept creating copies of themselves that started to take up positions around the Ronin. Ready to strike upon the mental command "You, broken and crying for mercy, I then granting you plenty of opportunities to surrender, and all of Canterlot looking on and seeing you for what you really are." He continued his taunting as Blueblood tried to recover some breath and holding his weapons tight. "I suppose now is just as good a time as any to grant you a chance to admit defeat."

He proclaims, secure in the knowledge of his own impending victory and yet the prince remained silent.

"Don't feel bad, dear. You fought bravely, and we recognize that, but it’s time to be realistic. You never had a chance to begin with. We are the prime example of nobility, the top magicians on our classes, and experts in swordsmanship, even with all of your tricks and some new spells. This conclusion was inevitable."

Ok I'll admit it, those two are really good, I would dare to say, even Twilight and Starlight would have to be on their A game in a fair magic duel against them  Blueblood internally monologues, but he still remained silent. 

"What? Nothing else to say? Or perhaps the pain is keeping you from speaking?" Jet takes a couple of steps forward. "Or perhaps, it's not pain, no maybe it is fear that is keeping you immobile, tell me, Prince, do you fear me?" Jet Set taunted him getting closer to his face. 

"No, but soon, you will FeAr mE!" Blueblood whispers before a flicker of darkened silver glinted through the air. Jet Set fell backward with a shriek and a gurgle his hooves scrabbling against his helmet disintegrated around his head. If one looked closely, they could see that the noble Stallions lower jaw and tongue hung by a thread of severed muscle. The stallion continued to gurgle as he rolled on the ground, trying to stem the tide of red. 

Luna’s hackles rose, and her wings stood and ruffled for a second.

"What is wrong, Luna?" Celestia asked in concern.

"I don't know, but for a second there, I swear I saw the silhouette of Nightmare Moon covering our nephew’s body." She whispered worry and fear etched upon her every feature.

"JET!" Upper cried out as she rushed to her husbands' side. Glaring at Blueblood, She commanded the clones to attack only for the Ronin to backflip out of the way. Cocking his head to the side briefly before lashing out with both swords Blueblood pierced two clones through their heads before turning to stare off into the distance with his ruined eyes, listening. "By the stars, I thought he would never shut up! Moon above what a windbag!" He complained with a frustrated sigh before smirking tilting his head and smiling in Upper Crust's general direction. "You will have to forgive me. I still haven't recovered my vision, so I need to ask you, Upper Crust, what did I lop off? Throat, jaw, or head? I'm guessing it wasn't the head because I can hear him moving." 

The couple glare at him in rage as Jet stand up with the aid of Upper Crust while holding his injuries as they began the regeneration process.

"Get him!" Upper Crust yells in fury as the clones go into the attack. 

"How…how is he able to fight while blind?" Luna whispered. Clearly shocked by what she was seeing. Despite his injuries and how the copies were landing an occasional glancing blow on Blueblood. The exiled Prince was holding his ground. Like the loss of his sight was merely an inconvenience that barely phased him. 

"Because he prepared for any surprise!" Pudding Head answered with a proud smile, which the only confused Luna even more as she looked to the mare in question.

Celestia kept watching the fight with her worry growing as more and more copies kept managing to find their marks, stabs and slashes ripped through Bluebloods outfit more and more until all that remained were some bloody rags hanging from his body, remnants of what was once a beautiful white suit. Once Jet Set Finally recovered the use of his jaw, he and Upper Crust joined in the fight and skewering the Ronin through his chest before twisting their weapons savagely. Causing Blueblood to flinch and stop from the pain. 

"Do you feel it brat?! That is called pain, and this is just a sample of what is to come!" Jet snarled, before they jump backward, making the Ronin gasp as their swords were removed. Blueblood collapsed to a knee while holding his chest, a pool of blood forming underneath him.

"Let that be a lesson Ronin" Upper Crust announced. "This is what happens when you challenge the purest of noble blood!" She proclaims with pride as they, alongside the clones, charged their horns for a massive magic blast. Her smirk is soon replaced by a frown when she noticed one small detail that did not quite fit with this situation. Blueblood was... "Why are you smiling?" she questioned

"You are about to see," Blueblood answered with a grin as his eyesight finally started to return. Upper Crust understood immediately and gasped before canceling her spell and turning to Jet. "Jet wait!" She warned, but it was too late as he and his copies fired. Falling right into Blueblood’s trap. The remains of Bluebloods suit that adorned him and lay strewn about the arena glowed an angry red and swallowed all magic in their proximity. The copies collapsed in upon themselves as their magic was ripped out and repurposed by the ex-prince. The massive spell that they had enchanted squib fired and dispersed into the air and was promptly absorbed as well. Lastly, all the magic that held and sustained the noble couple shattered like so much glass rebounding on them and causing them to collapse to the ground a full pulse of magic soon radiated out from the remaining bits of fabric that washed over Jet Set and Upper Crust. Leaving them both too weak to even speak at the moment. 

What remained of Blueblood’s suit smoldered and then caught fire. Burning to ashes, he panted and tried to recover his breath. 

What is happening! My body! it so heavy! I can't move! Jet Set panicked as he tries to regain control of his limbs, he only managed to move one of his hooves an inch, and it felt like such a herculean task. 

Blueblood started to chuckle and regarded his two opponents once he finally got his second wind. "How does it feel having a skeleton with the same mass and density of fabric? Scary right? Having bones so weak that they can't provide any structural support to your muscles or organs? All you can do right now is lie there immobilized by your own body weight and watch." He takes a deep breath and walks briefly to Llamrai and Hengroen. Recovering them with ease. "It only lasts a couple of minutes, and it’s a one time only trick, but for what is going to happen next, one time is all I need." He confides to them with a smile before looking up at the cloudy night sky. 

"And what an appropriate time this is too. For you see..." The prince smiled widen ever so slightly when he notices some pegasus moving the clouds away starting to reveal a stunningly bright full moon "Tonight is a blue moon*" 

"Discord what are you doing?" Luna inquired when she noticed Discord placing a camera in front of her and Celestia.

"Oh, I just want to make sure to capture your reactions, for when you see Blood Moon**!"

"Blood what?!" Celestia echoed, raising an eyebrow.

"Pay attention." That is the only warning Discord gave them before preparing to take the picture. Meanwhile, the noble couple slowly started to regain some use of their limbs as they watched at the prince, confused by his actions. Blueblood kept staring at the moon until he got a full view of it shifting his gaze from the moon to Jet Set and Upper Crust the two were able to see that the reflection of the moon remained in his eyes even when he was not looking at it. "Earlier you asked me how I am related to my aunts? WeLl LeT mE sHoW YoU!" Blueblood voice suddenly took on a demonic echo and timbre as his eyes now glowed white and an aura of magic enveloped his body. 

Everyone was rendered speechless when they saw what was happening in front of them. Magic began to rise off of Blueblood and curve away into the sky in a manner the likes of which only a select few in all of Equestria had ever seen as the night sky turned red. When looking up, Celestia gasps the moment she finds out why. The moon itself was waxing into a bright but foreboding red. 

Immediately this discovery, she turned to her sister, "Luna what are you doing?!"

"It's...not my doing sister, I…I don't know what is happening, it feels like…" Luna’s eyes widened with the realization as she looked back to Blueblood, "…some pony else is tampering with my moon." She whispered but then is rendered speechless as her jaw dropped followed almost immediately by Celestia's from what was happening in the arena. Not even the flash from Discord camera managed to snap them out of the surprise.

"Oh, this one is going into the album." Discord chuckled as he admires the photo before putting it away and returned to watching the arena with great interest. "And now the real show starts," He whispered in anticipation. 



Inside the dome, Blueblood started to levitate the very dust and shake the ground, his form rippling with power before his body and horn tripled in size while his teeth turned into fangs. His fur muted to a dusky shade of gray, while his mane and tail grew into an exaggerated length, burnished gold faded to silver for only a moment before they both began to flow much like liquid Mercury as an unseen arcane breeze caught hold of the hairs. Blueblood’s eyes turned red and reptilian, darting left and right before focusing on Jet Set and Upper Crust. Stepping forwards, the newly transformed Blueblood casually passed through a ray of tainted moonlight. As he did so, interlocking plates of silver shimmered into existence covering the prince's torso and neck and hooves flowing backward until the prince exited the light looking every inch like a warrior-prince of old. Lastly, Llamrai and Hengroen began to change and flow to better suit the princes need, running together and reshaping themselves into something different. Removing his gaze from his foes, Blueblood focused on this separate transformation and channeled his magic into his two friends to provide his own input on their new form. Jet Set and Upper Crust, who had finally recovered enough use of their limbs and magic each cast a spell to teleport away before staggering back several more steps eyes wide with shock. The ex-prince paid them no attention as they did; he was still focused on his weapons. From the mass of flowing metal and magic, a new form began to emerge.

Llamrai... Hengroen... I thank you both for all that you have done. Though, this is no longer your fight. You are tools of honor and justice. Now is the time for a sword that revels in misfortune and bathes in the blood of our foes. Now is the time for the Slayer of Kings, Kingdoms and Legends alike. Now is the time for...

"ClArEnT***" the demonic voice from before whispered out from between the prince's lips like oiled silk. The new sword was a departure from the exile princes two previous blades. Its blade was long, undulating and wickedly sharp, stopping just short of five feet in length. An additional ten inches of hilt extended from the base of the blade that ended in a simple pommel. The grip was wrapped in corded black leather, which curiously extended up past the enlarged and ringed guard to cover the swords ricasso terminating at a pair of Parierhaken that extended outwards beneath the wicked edge, which gleamed crimson in the moonlight. The prince wrapped his hooves around the war-sword and slowly inspected the weapon. A genuine smile graced his visage as he gave the weapon a flourish, listening to it scythe through the air for a moment while reacquainting himself with the blades additional weight. Finally satisfied and ready, Blueblood brought the massive sword to rest gently across his armored shoulder. It was only now that he regarded his opponents once more. The princes' smile faded, and his draconic eyes hardened. "GrEeTiNgS... AlLoW mEtO...ReInTrOdUce MySeLf. I aM...BlOoD MoOn"

https://www.deviantart.com/estefanoida/art/BloodMoon-Commission-806742016





Luna his mane! Celestia inform her sister in total surprise It flowing, his body is overflowing with magic mana now!

No, it's not his magic Tia Luna inform hardening her gaze as she recovers He is channeling my moon into him like some kind of magnet. She explain as her expression turns to worry and fear  

Dear nephew, are you really you right now? 

"Oh…~Oh my" Scarlet panted and had trouble to remain standing. Her tongue hung out of her mouth in shameless want. Such power, such authority, oh stars! Oh please, please don't look at me with such powerful eyes. She took a minute to catch her breath before appraising at Blueblood once more. So much raw power, I feel like a deer that has been caught by a hungry wolf, I just ah…ah! Her legs finally refused to listen to her commands anymore as she is collapsed into a sitting position as her eyes rolled back It turns me on so much! Once her afterglow ended, she staggered back to her hooves once more. "Feathers! I need Quills! And ink and parchment! I need to write this down!" She cried out in excitement as she goes back to her room. Meanwhile, with the duel, things also continued to heat up even more. 

"WhY, JeT SeT, uPpEr CrUsT, WhAtEvEr SeEmS To Be WrOnG? DoN't TeLl Me YoU’r..." Blood Moon asked only to step out from behind the two nobles. "ScArEd?"

Both of them yelped in surprise and lept into the air before turning around and start to back away from the stallion. Blood Moon chuckled lightly at the pairs display of self-preservation instincts. Directing gaze Between the two as if sizing them up, the Prince continued. "I wOuLd LiKe To ExTeNd ThE SaMe CuRtIsY yOu GaVe Me To YoU bOtH. SuRrEnDer NoW oR fInD oUt WhAt HaPpEnS wHeN i GeT...aNgRy..." Blood Moon warned, His eyes still twinkling with mirth.

The comment managed to snap the noble couple back to reality, and it stoked the fires of rage within them. "You little…insufferable brat!" Jet exploded and channeled all of his rage towards the transformed prince, Upper Crust having the same idea soon followed suit and combined her magical might with her husbands. Jet Set summoned copies of the two, while Upper Crust activated the runes on what remained of both of their armor which functioned as a superconductor for her magical might. Allowing for her to dump even more power into the spells, she cast before feeding that extra power over into her husband. Overcharged as he was by his wife's actions, Jet Set Was able to create not only unicorns but aspected clones of themselves as earth ponies and pegasi alongside griffons, minotaurs, yak and even a few dragon versions of themselves all joined together in one great phalanx of magic. Bristling and ready to be unleashed on their single target. At the sending of an unseen signal, the small army charged at Blood Moon in a full assault. No reserves were kept, and not even a thought of surrender was given as they closed in. "Don't get cocky! Just because you grew taller, and put on a nightmare night costume, doesn't mean you can beat us!"

"I bEg YoUr PaRdOn?" Blood Moon asks in genuine confusion.

"We’ve had it with your theatricalities Ronin! You shouldn't even be here, this was supposed to be our time to shine! WE are the heroes of this story! Not you! Us! It was OUR time to shine! You were only supposed to lose! So just lose!" Upper Crust screeched out as the pair both lost themselves to their jealousy and pride and join in on the attack without any form of rhyme or reason.

"YoU WeRn'T jOkInG tHeN...vErY wElL." Blood Moon sighed and shook his head in disappointment. "NeVeR lEt It Be SaId ThAt I dId NoT gIvE yOu A cHaNcE." He stated before enveloping himself in a silver and black haze before charging into the small army arrayed against him.

Four copies of Jet Set tried to strike Blood Moon down, the Heavy blade of Clarent swept their strikes aside, it was then that the haze took action as well latching on to the four clones it dragged all for of them into the air as the prince propelled himself high into the air before twirling like an acrobat. Clarent sang a death knell as its wavy blade sundered magical armor and summoned flesh and bone with equal ease. The eight pieces of four clones disappeared before they had a chance to fall back to the ground below. 

The dragons and griffins tried their luck next. Some closing to engage while others hung back to cut off any chance of escape. The first to reach Blood Moon was a powerful example of the dragon species for a clone. Thick with muscle and armored with diamond-hard scales. It died just the same. Blood Moon impaled its head on Clarent and proceeded to use its dissipating bulk as a shield blocking a jet of flame from another dragon clone and the rending claws and beak of a pair of Griffon Clones. Shifting his Grip Clarent was forcibly removed from the clones disappearing remains and used to dispatch these new clones in short order. The Dragon died when it was pierced through the stomach and hewn open. The Griffons died when the first was impaled and used as an improvised springboard to reach the final griffon, who died after its wings were cut from its body. It screeched out as it plummeted uncontrolled out of the air and dashed its head ground, Blood Moon landed lightly and spun Clarent around his head maintaining the weapon's momentum while simultaneously parrying a strike from a minotaur copy that sought to stab the prince in the back. The minotaur attempted to get clear as the Scything edge came around once again but incorrectly judged the swords timing and placement and lost its legs as the blade swept low. Though fatally wounded the minotaur did not immediately die like its cloned brethren. It used what limited time it had with its magical matrix damaged as it was to make one last effort. It hurled itself at the prince with its horns bared. It never saw the silver and black mist that ate it. With the minotaurs demise, the fog began to expand.

The couple used a magical barrier to protect themselves from the grasping fog as they scanned their surroundings for their opponent as the fog stopped swirling and finally seemed to settle. However, it didn’t seem to be dissipating, but it was instead getting thicker taking on a reddish glow as it did. Jet Set and Upper Crust soon found themselves unable to see anything but a half sphere of swirling red outside the sound of battle grew muted and then faded away entirely. For a moment there was silence, and then there was the sound of hoof falls making contact with the stone outside. Which grew louder and louder with each step. It was then that they noticed something glowing outside of their barrier just off to the side.

Gasping in surprise, the pair barely had time to turn intangible as the glow detonated and sound of battle returned full force. The explosion was powerful and wiped out a good portion of their tightly packed formation of clones. It also had the added bonus of leaving them shaken by the sudden burst of light and sound. This was long enough for Blood Moon to materialize like a wrath in front of them. Blood Moon lashed with a vicious punch and smashed the supposedly intangible Jet Set in the chest with enough force to send him flying through the air to impact on the barrier cage denting the metal with his body. Upper Crust barely had a chance to perform a sloppy desperation block with her rapier as Clarent came around to smash down pommel and guard first on her blade. The force of Blood Moons blow sent the noble mare to her knees teleporting away from her opponent, she appeared next to her husband who she helped stand up while he coughed up blood and gulped in great lungfuls of air. Getting desperate, they put their horns together and launched a magic blast the size of a chariot straight into Blood Moon, who raised a hoof and caught the attack before opening his mouth and inhale deeply, gobbled it up all the magic in the process.

Now utterly terrified, the couple desperately and mass cast copies of themselves by the dozen, who immediately launch themselves at Blood moon upon stabilizing their physical form. But the Princes form entirely disintegrate into the mist, which wormed its way through the crowd makes its way through their replenished but now magically diminished army like a breeze through a field of hay. Not only did the numbers of copies seem to be ineffective in fighting the prince, but some were actively hindering there fight. The mist would surround a clone and actively infecting the clones with his own magic. Instead of disappearing when disrupted in this manner, the copy instead began to glow red like the moon above. They would then fight there way out of formation and gathered together in a group. Then began to haze together and take on three new forms. Where once stood thirty clones now stood three knight ponies in utterly bizarre suits of armor that none the less appeared unassailable. The first was a Giant earth pony with an enormous maul, each step of his hoof and swing of his bludgeon would shake the earth beneath him and his opponents. A lightning fast pegasus with a lance that seems to produce lighting itself dodged and weaved through the Earth ponies attack and punctuated the hammer blows with peals of piercing lightning. The last and, oddly enough injured, knight was a unicorn who’s face was shrouded by a scarf and despite having a broken hoof, seemed more than capable of handling the army of clones by himself with his claymore.

"There they are!" Hurricane exclaim in excitement jumping on her seat. "I was wondering when he was going to use those guys." 

"What, in the name of all my stars, are those ponies?" Luna demanded, surprised by such remorseless display of force and power

"According to Blueblood, their names are Ornstein, Smough, and Artorias, and if what he told us is true, those three are the most terrifying knights any ruler could ask for," Hurricane explained. "He was probably saving them for last, and for what I'm seeing, the wait was more than worth it." She commented with a smirk, "Those two are done for."

By Celestia what are those things made off?! Jet cried out in terror through the link he and Upper Crust were pushed into a corner, while Blood Moon and his demonic knights kept decimating their forces without taking any lasting damage. 

Just keep shooting! Upper Crust answered, equally terrified at this point. They both cast spell after spell as fast as they could, praying to turn the tables somehow. Getting desperate, and both have the same idea. The two charge head-on into the knight known as Smough, impaling his chest with their horns and channel what remains of their magic, to turn him into a bomb. Which explodes and levels everything in sight. 

Once the commotion finally died down, all that remained was a beaten, battered, worn and thoroughly terrified pair of ponies. Jet Set and Upper Crust found themselves on their knees panting and smoking before looking around before beginning to giggle hysterically with relief. 

"We did it…we finally did it! It's over!" Upper Crust cried out in victory before the sensation of an intense glare upon them froze the pair in place.

"No." With a single slash of Clarent, Blood Moon cut their horns off as he appears in front of them with a emotionless stare. "ThE wOrSt Is YeT tO cOmE."

The nobles, now powerless and on the verge of crying, took one look at Blood Moon before turning around and try to run away. Their attempts were all for naught though as Blood Moon charged his horn and ripped the entire arena out of the earth and hurled it up into the air at breakneck speed, pinning Jet Set and Upper Crust into the ground with the acceleration. The couple could not do anything other than scream until things finally, mercifully seemed to slow down. When they finally had the wits to stand up and look up, the nobles are rendered speechless once they notice how they were now in outer space.

"Blueblood, what…what did you just do?" Upper Crust asked in a voice barely above a whisper. Looking back to the prince with a questioning expression only to find him dissolving once again into mist.

"I took us into outer space, which means that we will not need this anymore." 

Before either of them could react, the entire dome crumbled to pieces and the two were launched upwards once more, on their exodus, the pair saw spectral forms of monsters and creatures that would try to eat them only for them to pass through while they continued to scream. 

Suddenly the spectral head of Blood Moon appeared in front of them with a smirk. 

"There is no telling where are you going, and now the danger is really growing, you made me mad, and now there is no turning back, and why everything is getting brighter? Is because of a kind aunt, or perhaps a fair ruler? No! Its the sun! AND it's fast approaching! I Hope you have your sunscreen on, because things are about to heat up, and will just keep getting hotter!" Blood Moon started to laugh while his face melted into a skeleton that burst into flame while continuing to laugh, making the couple scream ever louder as they watched the sun approached. They can feel the heat all over their bodies as they start to smolder and burn. They were also able to see in those final moments, their armor begin to melt from the searing heat. 

"Ok! Ok! You win! You WIN!" Upper Crust yelled with tears on their eyes. 

"We surrender! You can be the prince again! Just please, stop this, please!" Jet begged with his eyes closed. "I'm begging you, please spare our lives, please stop! Stoo…p!"

The moment they both admitted defeat, their bodies fell down abruptly, and everything went black before they woke up screaming. Only to find themselves lying back in the arena with Blood Moon still in front of them.

"What…what just happened?" Upper Crust asks clutching her chest, trying to calm her hammering heart. 

"A DrEaM sPeLl, the oldest trick in the book." Blood Moon answered her, his voice shifting to something slightly less demonic but no less Blood Moon. 

"What?!" Jet Set look at him in indignation. "You mean that none of what happens was real?!"

"I never said that." Blood Moon tells them with a shake of his head before pointing at them, more specifically at their armor, or what was left of it. Despite being cool to the touch, all of the plates and a mail that remained had melted together into a solid mass. "I said it was a dream, I never said that it wasn't real."

"What?! But…but how?" Upper Crust, asked trying to understand what was going on, while Jet checked his forehead and sigh in relief as his and her wife horns were still there. 

"I call it "Nightmare Opera."" Blood Moon elaborated, "Think of it as a normal sleeping spell. Only this one blurs the lines of reality and fantasy. So anything that happens to you in the dream happens in real life." He continued while taking a meaningful glance at the melted and hardened ruin of steel that used to be the pairs rapiers. "With the caster as the conductor, deciding what does or doesn't become real. The moment you were trapped in my spell, you were done for."

"And at which point did you trap us there?" Upper probed trying to piece together what just happened. Only for the prince to stand, turn, and walk away. "As if it mattered, Dame Crust, the fight is over. I won, and you lost. That is the only thing that matters now."

"What?! You can't possibly be serious, we were under a spell, that shouldn't count at all!" Jet Set tried to protest. "I have my rights, and I demand that we keep fi…"

"Would you like to take a close look at the sun again, Jet Set?" Blood Moon asked him, looking at Jet Set with one draconic eye over his shoulder. 

"No! No! We are cool, we are cool, n-no need for that again." He answers, backing down quickly in fear. 

"I am glad to hear it, and with the fight over allow me to take this for you." 

He shine his horn and soon small red spears made out of fog appear and float out their bodies and toward Blood Moon who quickly consume both of them as if they were apples, surprising the two nobles. 

"What...did you just ate?" Jet ask gulping at what they saw and more surprise on how he felt oddly calmed for some reason 

"Your future nightmares, even if you don't deserve it, I don't want to be responsible for the next restless nights ahead of you. As for a previous point you do have a point regarding ending the fight. Only two ponies can announce the final end of this duel," Blood Moon announced, looking back to his aunts who remain quiet, too quiet in fact, to the point where Blood Moon started to worry as he takes notices of the fear in their eyes "A-Aunties?" He asks, clearly distressed as he didn't expect that reaction from them.

Managing to snap back to reality, Luna stood up and addressed the audience. "Jet Set and Upper Crust, have admitted defeat, the winner of this duel and the reclaimer of his title: Blueblood, Prince of Equestria!" She announces, putting an official end to the fight. Yet no cheer was heard afterward, as the prince soon started to take notices on how every pony in the audience was looking at him. He could see the naked fear and worry on their faces, making him suddenly rather self-conscious as the deafening silence grew.
> E.D.P (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The tension was palpable as every spectator in the arena remained quiet while looking at the Prince. Fortunately for Blood Moon, he could see some of the initial fear he was seeing dying down a little as he stays still. Even though, everypony still seemed on edge. To the point that even moving one hoof only a little, had resulted in a flurry of ponies flinching and hugging their children tighter. Not even the princesses were immune, as he could detect the same tension in their eyes. That image of the two of them poised and unsure pierced through him like a knife twisting in his stomach and leaving a bad taste in his mouth.

Come on Rookie you got this Hurricane thought, also tense by how things had turned out.

This is it, sweetie. The moment of truth, you got their attention, now show them the rest of you, just like we practiced Platinum swallowed saliva in anticipation.

Almost there, now give us a speech, so we can wrap this whole show up. Pudding was practically biting her hoof from the tension in the air. You are just milking the tension now, stop it already!

"He seems…scared" Fluttershy whispered with pity as she slowly started to take stock of the transformed prince's features. 

"Oh this is bad, he won! Ponies should be cheering, not staring at him like he's the next coming of King Sombra" Pinkie answered before turning to her friend "We need to do something, this seems like a job for an E.D.P"

"E.D.P?" Fluttershy looked at her in confusion.

"Come on, I will explain on the way," Pinkie told her, as they both took advantage of everyone been distracted to slip away from their seats. 

As the minutes passed, the prince swallow hard before hardening his resolve and address his subjects. "Let this be a lesson, ponies of Canterlot. I am far from perfect, and I'm pony enough to admit that I still have a long road ahead of me to atone for my sins, but with the princesses as my witness, I promise you two things" He closed his eyes and then pressed his right hoof against his chest before planting Clarent's point into the flagstone. "Someday I will become the prince you all deserve," He opened his eyes, and everyone felt a cold chill on their backs at the sight of his glare. "And two, if anyone threatens or harms our kingdom or my family. They will face the FuLlEsT eXtEnT oF mY wRaTh."

Blood Moon could feel the gaze of his aunts boring into him, and when he stole a glance to gauge their expressions, it took all of his training to not flinch. Their earlier apprehension hand morphed into something all the more heart-wrenching. Fear. 

They're scared of me, as well as the rest of the kingdom. Blood Moon felt like dirt, and the only thing he wanted to do now was to walk away and never show his face again, but for the sake of his image, he knew that all of this was necessary. No matter how much it pained him. Holding back a tear, he simply decided to close his eyes and prepared to leave when the last thing he expected to happen... happened.

"Blueblood?" turning back, the Prince was surprised to find an equally surprised and yet concerned Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie standing right in front of him. He took a quick glance to their seats and then again at them as he processed what had happened.

But they were…? When did they…? How did they…? How did nobody see them? The prince silently questioned as Fluttershy took a cautious step closer, some ponies gasped at her boldness while staying at the edge of their seats. 

"Is that really…you?" It was just a straightforward question, but the way she asked with so much concern in her voice managed to do the trick as the cogs on his brain re-engaged and started to spin, cluing the Prince into what was happening, and why everyone was so tense from his appearance.

"They think Blood Moon is possessing me." He whispered, catching Fluttershy off guard.

"What?" She raised an eyebrow, not entirely sure of what she just heard.

With a shake of the head, the Prince addressed her once more, much calmer now. "YeS, dEa-" Blood Moon’s voice broke hissed out for a moment before he paused and cleared his throat. Before beginning once again. This time not falling into his demonic rasp, though there still remained something otherworldly in the Prince's voice. "My apologies. Yes, dear Fluttershy, it is me." He regarded her with a genuine smile, managing to surprise the spectators and partially mollify them a bit. "I understand why you would be asking though." The Prince continued turning Clarent slightly to regard his own reflection. "My current form is radically different from how I used to look, but I assure you, even though I'm a bit…taller, I'm still the very same stallion you got to meet."

"What…happened to you?" Fluttershy got even closer to him and raised a hoof that she places on his chest. "How did you even manage to…well, change like this?"

"And more importantly, how do you SEE?" Pinkie voiced her opinion, invading the Princes' space, and examining his eyes. "Did you see everything in red now? How does it feel having a magic mane? Does growing fangs hurt? Can you turn back and forward at will like a changeling? And most importantly... do you still remember us?" She asked in quick succession inspecting his body before looking at him with pleading eyes and pouty lips. 

"Well, in that order: I trained quite hard for this duel. I created a new form of magic that allows me to transform into a pony of shadows at will. I see just fine, although the size difference has changed my perspective somewhat. No. It's rather chilly actually. Yes, a little, as well as feeling weird at first. Yes and no because in order to change, I need to stare at the moon for several moments, and my power level depends on the current phase, with a Blue Moon being my most powerful. To return to normal, I must rest indoors or in a place where the moon doesn't shine; and put your worries to rest, I know we still have that game of hiding and seek to finish, if that is what you are wondering." He finishes with an impish grin.

Pinkie gasped and tackled him into a hug that makes Blood Moon take a staggering step backward from the force. 

"Bluey! It really IS you!" She cheered in happiness while hugging him with all the force she could muster, which was quite substantial. Luckily, the armor the prince still wore held fast against her onslaught. Blood Moon's smile fell through when the metal itself began to groan under the sustained pressure.

Jesus, how strong an earth pony can really get? The prince questioned silently before chuckling and returning the gesture. "I missed you too Pinkie, both of you actually. I'm so sorry that you got caught in the crossfire of all of... this mess." He tells them with some shame while gesturing with his head. 

"Nah, it’s ok." Pinkie ended the hug and dismissed Blood Moons words with a wave of her hoof. "We're used to crazy things happening to and around us; we get into situations like this all the time." She finished with a cheerful smile as Fluttershy nodded in silent agreement. 

"Wow, you ladies really enjoy life to the fullest." Blood Moon mentioned in honest surprise, making Pinkie giggle at his reaction.

"Oh, if only you knew how much." Pinkie mumbled with a roll of her eyes. Her words seemed to help calm everything down, and the Prince started to notice how the tension around them had bled away, the audience finally beginning to breathe once more. Even the princesses seemed more calm and happy now that the tension had been broken.

"Wait!" Pinkie suddenly grabbed his attention again as well as his cheeks as she pressed their noses together "Did you say pony of shadows, as in…like what happened to Nightmare Moon?" 

"Aye." Blood Moon answered and slowly pushed her away. "I suppose it was inevitable that some pony would ask me that question eventually. Yes Pinkie, in this form, I can be considered a stallion of shadows, just like Nightmare Moon."

"Why would you do that?" Fluttershy asked in confusion.

"Indeed." Everyone in the small group looked to the side and see Luna and Celestia landing near them as some pegasus guards moved in and began to escort Jet Set and Upper Crust out of the cage. The Prince only now realizing that with his new body, he was actually slightly taller than Luna. "Why would you willingly choose to become something like what I once was during one of the lowest points in my life?" Luna inquired, her sadness and self-loathing plain for all to see. 

"Because that event made you into the great aunt that you are today." Blood Moon answered honestly, confusing everyone, save Celestia. Who, after the initial surprise, only smiled and nodded in understanding.

"Let me explain; while it is true that the tale of Nightmare Moon can be interpreted as the fall of a fair princess, one who surrendered to her inner demons. I, myself, prefer to see it as a tale of humility, and of how that, not even royalty is perfect." He took a step closer. "A story on how we all have flaws, and how those flaws are what make us who we are. It is a story about the importance of having the courage to accept those flaws and being better for knowing. After all, ‘There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow pony; true nobility is being superior to your former self.’”

He places his hoof on her chest. "There is absolutely no shame in admitting it, Aunt Luna. Nightmare Moon is you, and you are she. You two are part of the same whole, and by admitting that she exists, you can find true inner peace and grow into a better version of yourself." He smiled kindly and removed his hoof from her chest. "That is why I chose to become Blood Moon, to honor your memory, and to show you and everypony else how powerful anyone can truly be if you find and accept your shadow as part of what you are."

"Blueblood I…I don't even know what to say I…I just-" Luna was incapable of conjuring words as she teetered on the verge of tears, genuinely moved by his speech. She couldn't help but finally feel accepted, as for millennia, she had always thought of Nightmare Moon as nothing more than one of her greatest shames; a memorial serving as a constant reminder of the horrible creature she once was and never wanted to be again. Yet here her nephew was, looking like a sinister reflection of that monster, but instead of disgust or anger, she felt an odd sense of happiness. It was like he was seeing her truly and loving her regardless of her flaws.

Unable to come up with anything, she resorted to merely going forward to hug him tightly in a loving embrace, several tears leaving her face in the process. "Thank you." was all she could utter as she tightened the hug even more.

"Citizens of Canterlot!" Celestia chose that moment to address the crowd. "Rejoice, for today, history has been made!" She takes a couple of steps forward. "Today our nephew has returned to us, and with his return, the end of the lockdown and crisis has finally arrived, as well as the discovery of a new form of magic!" She announced earning happy cheers from everyone present.

"Now, come on everypony. Just like Princess Celestia said, the Prince has returned, recovered his title AND become a nice shadow pony! It's time to celebrate! Let's Party!!!" Pinkie Pie shouted out, earning more cheers and yells from the audience, the ponies now eager to party. 

Blood Moon chuckled at the reaction and ending his embrace with his Auntie. approaching the party planner, "I appreciate the thought Pinkie, but don't you think it’s a bit rushed?"

"Oh come on Bluey, please let's party? Please, please, please pretty please?" She begged with puppy eyes and putting her hooves together. 

"Pinkie is not that I don't want to, but making a party right now would be kind of impossible" He closed his eyes and started to list off the problems with that. "We need to remove this cage, get some decorations, come up with the food, find a DJ, maybe a dance floor, some drinks, chairs, and desks, a banner, and…how did she bloody do that...?" The Prince was left speechless when by the time he opened his eyes, everything he had been listing was already in place, and the cage had turned into some kind of party dome where ponies were already dancing or enjoying some food with the disco ball illuminating everything as it spun.

Pinkie only smirks and chuckles at his reaction. "Oh silly Bluey, never underestimate the power of an E.D.P!"

"E.D, what?"

"Emergency De-Escalation Party, duh!" She chided with a smile.

"It’s just Pinkie Pie, don't overthink it," Fluttershy answered him, taking note of how confused he was by his explanation. 

"I have so many questions right now."

"Just let them go Prince Blueblood, trust me, it will save you the headache." She warned.

"Well, …ok, if you say so." After a moment, the Prince decided to simply shrug it off and took Fluttershy's advice.

"Now come on! Let dance!" Pinkie exclaims as she starts to drag Blood Moon and Fluttershy out onto the dance floor.

The royal sisters soon hear a chuckle near them, and when looking for its source, they see the three mysterious mares approaching them. "I like that pink mare, she seems crazy." Pudding Head remarks with a smile. 

"Of course you would; you two are practically clones," Platinum mentioned with a sideways glance.

"Heh, can I train them or what?" Hurricane approached Celestia with a proud smile. "Told you, my boy would clean the floor with those two!"

“Although he choked in the last part of the plan.” Platinum mumbled in disappointment. “Looks like there is still too much to teach that stallion.” She summarizes with a shake of her head. 

"Indeed, and I have to say," Celestia regards the three mares with no small amount of curiosity, "My sister and I can't help but feel something familiar about you three."

"Indeed, have we meet in the past?" Luna asked with a quirked eyebrow. 

"I suppose a couple of thousand years would make you forget some old faces, right dearies?" Platinum tells them before taking a step closer. "Look at our faces you two, look closely." She suggests, and the princesses comply, until after a few seconds, they gasp and then look at the now garland covered statues before doing a rapid series of double takes. 

"It’s you!"

"Long time no see, eh Celestia? Just look at you. The two of you have grown into such beautiful and radiant princesses." Platinum commented with a proud smile.

"Glad to see the braces worked for you, Stardust!" Hurricane interjected to Luna, making her blush from embarrassment. "Commander Hurricane, please! That was a millennium ago!" 

The three laughed at her reaction. "Oh you, always easy to embarrass, it never gets old. Listen there is much to talk about, and I'm sure there are lots of things you would like to tell us but what do you say we wait for tomorrow, hm?" Pudding Head suggested while pointing at Blood Moon dancing with Pinkie before they change partners. Now he was paired with Fluttershy who had a radiant blush on her cheeks. "Let him have this night for himself. Besides, it’s a party! Time to have fun! Hurricane I see a table full of cider right there, and I'm ready to beat you once again in a drinking contest."

"Oh! you are so, on!" Hurricane accepted the challenge, and the two ran to said table. 

"Oh no, you are not! We might not be the rulers anymore, but we still need to keep some semblance of decorum, as symbols of Equestria...hey! listen to me, you two knuckleheads!" Platinum scolded as she gives chase after her friends making the princesses laugh.

"Oh, how I missed the antics of those three," Luna shook her head. "But they are right sister, the night is young, why not enjoy it? The rest can wait for tomorrow."

"I couldn't agree more sister."

"But before that..." Discord suddenly appeared in front of them. "Perhaps you could address one slight little issue of a certain tall handsome and benevolent lord chaos who was kind enough to look after your nephew, and ensure that he went unharmed and safe while away from you? Hmm?" Discord goaded conjuring more claws to point at himself. 

"While also keeping him a secret from us and let us worry ourselves sick for two whole weeks!" Celestia countered, her expression neutral.

"Small details and a certain princess needed to cool down a bit after the masquerade incident before getting any news." He quipped back his own neutral expression equal to Celestia's.

Luna let out a long-suffering sigh and rolled her eyes. "What do you want, Discord?"

"Oh, nothing much, a simple pat on the back, maybe a small thank you…"

"Thank you, Discord" Celestia flatly stated before starting to walk away before he could finish. 

"…aaaaaand maybe an opportunity to chat more with my good pal Blueblood. After all, we have kind of become, well, the best of best buddies and if I could have a chance to visit more often. It wouldn't be such a problem, right?"

"…You only want that job as a royal jester don't you?" Luna summarized with her own poker face. 

"Just give me five sessions to prove to you that they are worth it!" Discord broke the act and used his open claw to number the events. 

"We will give you one test show" Celestia quickly reply

"What do you say, four?"

"Two!" She counters. 

"Deal!" Discord agreed and giggled with mirth and pride before shaking the hand of another Discord who walked up to congratulate himself. "Discord you handsome devil, you did it again."

"Whatever" Luna and Celestia start to leave.

"Two shows with Celestia and two with Luna; this will be so great!" He clarifies in anticipation before leaving. 

"Wait, two of each? Discord we never agreed to…" Celestia tried to stop him, but he was already gone. 

"Ignore him, Tia, we will deal with him tomorrow. For now, let us enjoy this party." Luna calls out her. Celestia just nods and follows behind as they go dance with their nephew too.

Meanwhile, in her balcony, Scarlet finally managed to get rid of her writers high, as she lets go of her smoldering quills and panting slowly, she approached her balcony to see the celebration going on down below. 

And with that everything comes to a close 

She took a deep breath and recovered before looking at the castle where Jet Set and Upper Crust were most likely being taken and placed in custody. Now, as I promised, it's my turn She shark-like smile spread itself malevolently across her face as she licked her lips before looking back at the party. 

Oh, my sweet, kind prince always the softy, you let them go easy, didn't you, honey pots? Don't worry, as your future marefriend, I will take care of everything from here on out.

She then goes back to her room and fills five cauldrons with water and boils them using heated rocks before tossing some dust into each one. the resulting puff of smoke followed by a gout of flame that formed a window, where the silhouette of a dragon, an anthropomorphic cat, a griffin, a changeling, and a diamond dog soon appeared. 

"Hello, ladies." Scarlet addressed everyone with an evil smirk. "How are you this fine night? Still eager to seek some attention?"

All the ladies in the flame windows laughed in anticipation as a response. "You know it Scarly." The changeling confirmed.

"Anytime, anywhere, all. day. long" The dragon agreed with a lick of her lips.

"Just tell us who's feeling lonely Scarlet," The Griffin said, "We will take care of the rest!"

"I'm so happy to hear that," Scarlet responded with a sincere smile before it turned malevolent once more. "Because I have one particular doozie of a job for you." All of them soon started to laugh as Scarlet informed them of her plans.
> A Stallion Word (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Aaaaand, done. Here you go." While inside on an office in the castle, Blueblood finished signing his signature on the last of the reams of parchment before affixing the royal seal on it. Then levitated it to the same elderly stallion unicorn from back in Manehattan. With him, all the other ponies who gave over control of their businesses during his time in the city, all of which had similar contracts and were adorned costly and formal clothing, courtesy of Blueblood's endeavors. 

"As I promised, your properties are now completely yours once more," He assured the gathering with a smile as he shakes his hoof a little from the pain and leans on his seat with a tired sigh. "Please feel free to inspect them; I will change or add anything that I have, *puff*, missed or forgotten, *puff* sorry, mane in my mouth." Ever since he returned to normal, the prince had been suffering from one little side effect of his transformation. That was, both the hair on his tail, mane and to a lesser degree, fur, while back to their original colors, retained the same length of when he was Blood Moon. This resulted in a ridiculous shaggy appearance, as it now covered his body and made it harder for him to see, walk, or even speak without tripping or getting a mouth full of hair. The former luckily was solved somewhat with a sling that one of the maids in the castle was kind enough to let the prince borrow for the day, and some light trimming solved most of his fur problem allowing him more movement. 

Naturally, everyone that saw him couldn't help but let out a giggle, even Celestia herself was unable to resist the urge to hug her 'fluffy' nephew as she nicknamed him once she saw the state he was in. He didn't seem to mind and even joined in on the giggles, telling everyone that he would take care of his predicament after he took care of some final issues that needed to be addressed first, namely giving back the businesses he borrowed being on top of his list.

"Hmm... yeah, everything seems in order." The old pony nodded before putting the contract away again. "But I have to say, I'm surprised you kept your word; do you have any idea of how much money you are giving up right now?"

"I'm with Old Oak here," Another stallion spoke up. "This contract is completely one-sided, you are left with nothing here," He continued, surprised. "Is that ok with you?" 

"I honestly wouldn't mind if you kept a bit of the capital assets for yourself. If you helped us this much in one month, just imagine what could you do in a whole year," The florist mare interjected.

"Yeah, plus it was fun having around the store. Are you sure you want to leave?"

"Absolutely," He states with an air of finality and a nod. "I appreciate the offer, but money is no concern for me, and my place is here with my family. Those shops were always yours, and yours alone to make a profit from, and as a stallion of my word, I did promise that I would return them to you. Just promise me one thing," He sighed and looked out of the window. "There are a lot of ponies out there that are still unemployed thanks to what happened with Fort Knox," He looked back at them. "With how big your businesses have bloomed, you will need more employees in your enterprises, so…"

"Say no more, sonny," Oak stopped him before he could continue. "Any mare or stallion willing to earn a living by the sweat of their brows will always be welcome."

"Thanks, everyone." The prince nodded before smirking. "And if you still feel a bit bad about leaving me without nothing, maybe I will just float the idea to my aunts about a slight increase in enterprise taxes."

Everyone looked at him with equal parts surprise and fear before he laughed and shook his head. "Kidding, kidding, I would never do that. Those bits are yours; you earned them fair and square. If anything, maybe you will have to pay a bit less in taxes for a while, now that Equestria has gotten rid of its little financial crisis, and got some interest to boot."

"Oh, you got us going in there for a second, you rascal you." One stallion commented as they all shared a laugh.

"Heh, I like you Blueblood, you're a nice lad," Old Oak admitted with a smile before pulling what looked like a checkbook. "And that is why I can't simply leave you with your hooves empty." He wrote something down and ripped the cheque out before handing it over to him, and Blueblood almost choked when he read the amount. "Wow...Old Oak, I think you made a mistake, there are like, seven additional zeros here, you didn't mean to…"

"Just take it already." Oak insisted with a smirk, pressing the check back to the prince. "Believe me, with how many bits you made me, that is nothing, so keep that as my thanks for your help. Now, do yourself a favor and go use it to buy yourself a nice manecut, ok?"

"Me too."

"Same."

"You are technically quitting so by law you still need to accept your severance pay!"

One by one the other ponies followed the example of Old Oak and gave the prince checks for rather ludicrous sums of money, before then saying their goodbyes and leaving the office with a smile on their faces. When the final pony left, the prince was left alone with his rewards while he pondered what to do with all of it. 

Huh, so this is your reward for using those dirty deal tactics, for good instead of for personal gain. Have to say, its an excellent sensation, perhaps the business world wasn't as bad as I initially thought it was.

He levitated one of the checks up Hmm maybe I could use these funds to help the charities of Equestria and help fix some of the more pressing issues with the cities His eyes suddenly widened in realization …Like I could have done, from the start in my previous life.

He groaned in annoyance and brought up a hoof in front of his face. "God, I'm the prince of idiots."

A light chuckle snapped him back to reality.. Looking up, Blueblood found the same old blind mare that sent him to Despero, and once again noticed how the colors of the world faded all around himself and the mare. "Not bad, kid." She continued to chuckle while morphing into the ghostly mare he met when he defeated Fort Knox, "Not bad at all."

"That was you?" The prince looked to her in surprise.

She stopped chuckling and nodded. "I apologize for interfering, but in order for you to confront yourself…" She conjured a red flame in mid-air with the silhouette of a pony inside. "A …bit of rational thinking was needed, especially when dealing with those emotions of yours." She extinguished the flame and dispersed the illusion with her hoof before addressing him.

"Vanity, the faceless mask who prey on it wearer face, and scream to be seen. Such is it desire to be watch that it need more than one face to present, confront and defeat not one but the two vessels of it simultaneously, it more than worthy of praise, then again, like what happened with Fort Knox, this was a fight you already faced, am I not correct?"

The prince sighed and looked down. "If you mean back when I was human. Yes, I'm more than familiar with them. I virtually lived them." He confessed piteously.

"And now you can finally move on from them, now that you have faced your past."

The prince nodded and smiled as she looks at her. "Thanks, so it's safe to say that my tests are confronting ponies that embody the seven deadly sins?"

To his surprise, the spirit shook her head in response. "Although it is true you will face said sins on your journey, defeating the pony embodying them will not complete the test. Do not get overconfident your highness. So far, you have only faced the sins with which you learned to live and understand. From now on, though, the remaining six will make you venture into unknown territory. They will truly test your resolve by seducing you into embracing them. It would be wise for you to keep your guard up." She conjured the six-element marks on her hoof "And keep your friends close. From here on out, the real challenges will soon come; be alert." She warns him before her body started to shine. 

Knowing what it meant, the prince stood up and approached the mare, "Wait, there is still so much I want to ask!" He pleaded to her.

"A story for another time perhaps prince, nos eht evil gnol." The ghost announces, once again speaking backwards.

"At least tell me your name," He asked her as the light grew brighter.

"Many names over the centuries had known me, but if you truly wish to know my story and origin, then you can call me Fortune, loyal recorder of everything that is." She informed him before disappearing in a flash of light which blinded the prince for a second before his eyes could readjust.

Fortune, recorder of everything that is? Something about that seems…familiar.

"Sir?" With a start, Blueblood snapped back to reality and looked up and saw a guard observing at him confused. 

"Y-Yeah?" 

"I just wanted to tell you that, as you asked to be, the trial of Jet Set and Upper Crust is about to start." He announced, making the prince jump and dash out of the room. "The trial! I almost forgot, thank you!" He shouted to the guard as he made a mad dash before tripping on his tail, resulting in a crash with a set of armor.

"Your Highness!" The guard pony rushed to his side, but Blueblood was already up and running again. "I'm ok! Tell the maids that I'm sorry about that!" He apologized as he continued his dash to the courtroom.

The guard could only blink in confusion as he watched him leave. 

After some more stumbles and almost falling through an open window, the prince finally was able to reach the entrance of the courtroom where Princess Luna approached while keeping her head low and holding back a tired yawn. Her schedule, unfortunately, was forcing her to stay awake in the morning thanks to both incidents taking place at night and therefore on her night shift. Plus, Celestia was busy reopening the trading services and ensuring that no contraband would get into her borders while the country was going through the process of removing the lockdowns and blockades.

"Aunt Luna, wait!" Blueblood called out and would have crashed into her if she didn't catch him on her aura. 

"Nephew? What is the matter? Is there another emergency…and what happened to your mane and fur?" She questioned with a raised eyebrow once she took stock of his condition.

"Just a minor side effect of becoming a pony of shadows."

"Side effects?!" Luna pressed in alarm.

"Don't worry Auntie, is just the fur I swear, there is nothing to worry about, I will deal with it later." He clarified while she put him down. "For now I was curious. What is going to happen to them?" Blueblood asked, pity evident as he looked to the courtrooms set of double doors. 

Luna sighed and massaged the side of her head. "I'm not completely sure yet, hence this trial. The issue with them tampering in the first duel was more or less resolved, but that was only on account of their cheating, and you're accepting of it. Now, this trial will focus on their manipulation of the law, and aggression against royal-DON'T say it!" She lifted her hoof before Blueblood could speak. "Even though you agreed, they did so without sufficient authority, and that still counts as aggression. That is us having mercy on them. They are lucky we didn't charge them with conspiracy and attempted regicide. By my stars, this one will be a long trial." She complained in annoyance. 

"Is this quite necessary? I think Blood Moon made them suffer enough." Blueblood tried to tell her.

"Nephew, it is sweet that you are willing to have mercy for your enemies, but this can't be resolved with a slap on the hoof. They attacked a member of the crown on their own free will, so forcing them to speak only in Guilt Belt and Soil Land*, verbs will not suffice this time."
(*Pony Equivalents of Gilbert and Sullivan operas.)

"Oh yeah, what happened to Rarity" Blueblood chuckled at the memory.

"So if you excuse me..." Luna was about to enter, but Blueblood stopped her once more. "Wait, how about sentencing them to home arrest?" He quickly suggested. 

"Too soft." She responded with a shake of her head.

"No, I mean your version of that sentence? It would be fitting; they forced me into exile. I say we give them the same thing." Blueblood continued to press as Luna held the doorknob. "Cut them off from the rest of the world, throw them into isolation in a place where they can see Canterlot moving forward without them. I'm pretty sure those two are pretty big fans of gossip, imagine how much it will kill them not knowing what happens outside, or worse what other nobles will start saying about them." Blueblood elaborated while Luna remained still. 

"I will think about it, now I would advise you to keep some distance from me while your mane is like that nephew," She tells him with a yawn. 

"Why?" He inquired, confused by the random statement.

"Because it's 10:40 am; I should be sleeping by this time, and right now you are starting to look like a pillow with hooves," She replies as she slowly starts to lean forward. "One cushy and fluffy pillow, with legs…maybe I could rest my eyes for just a second and…"

"Got it; take away the temptation. Just wanted to tell you about the option, now if you excuse me, there are a couple of things I need to do before getting a haircut." Blueblood quickly nodded and took a step away from Luna fearing that she would fall asleep the second her head touched his fur. Recovering from her daze, the princesses saw her nephew starting to leave, "And nephew, once you finish your list, go straight to Doctor Caliber for a check-up."

"What? Why? Auntie, I told you I'm fine!"

"Not up to discussion, that is an order young man!" She pressured. "And I expect a copy of his report afterward."

The prince sighed in defeat, "Fine," the prince complied and then left her alone so she could enact the trial in peace.

"Such a nice, kind prince," Scarlet cooed out, making her presence known. Appearing from a nearby column and capturing Luna's attention, who glared at the new arrival. "He is right by the way." Scarlet looked at Luna with a smirk. "Not being able to partake in some daily gossip will be Tartarus for those two, plus it might be for the best interests of both of us."

"Step lightly, Miss Lips," Luna warns her. "I'm grateful for your help defending our family, as well as aiding us in keeping the peace in Canterlot during the crisis, but you have yet to earn our trust."

"But of course. It is perfectly understandable, and I have nothing but respect for family members who only look after the best interests of their children," She continues with a smile and raised one of her hooves, "Especially when they keep their promises."

"Indeed, as promised. Seeing as it doesn't seem too extreme or Inequine, I will grant you your request to partake in the sentencing of Jet Set and Upper Crust, but you better not break my trust Scarlet, or the noble couple will not be the only ones that will face judgment from me." She warned Scarlet before closing to stare the smaller mare in the eye while maintaining her calm. "Are we clear?" 

"Crystal."

The Princess then sighed and turned around to enter the courtroom. "Let's get this over with."

"Right behind you…Auntie."

Luna stopped dead in her tracks while her face hardened into a fierce scowl. Without looking at Scarlet Luna growled out. "Don't you ever say that again." Scarlet only giggled in response as they both entered.

Sometime later, Blueblood waited patiently for his aunt Celestia who, unfortunately, was busy signing, reading, and writing all sorts of documents that had been piling up. All of them required her attention. "I'm sorry Blueblood, but because of the lockdown, the state of emergency, and your masquerade event, work has been piling up and needs my full attention, I promise that I will be with you as soon as I address the most urgent matters."

"It's ok, and I will not take long. I just have a quick question, and then I will be out of your mane auntie," The prince assured, trying not to make her even more stressed as her secretary kept passing documents for her to see, approve or reject in quick succession. Despite that, she took a glance at him while continuing to work.

"Which is?"

"Can Amber and Stellar return to their positions as my guards?"

Celestia suddenly stopped as her eyes widened. "By the old gods, your guards! I completely forgot about them!" She exclaimed and was about to speak when her secretary showed the documents again. "Sorry, dear, there still too much to do." Celestia sighed only to have a burst of inspiration suddenly. Summoning a scroll, the Princess quickly passed to Blueblood. "Here is a royal authorization for reassignment of the royal guard. Just tell Stellar and Amber to sign it, and they can go back to being your bodyguards without any problems." She instructed before refocusing her attention back on the documents. "You will find them in the dungeon."

"The dungeon!?" Blueblood eyes widened in shock at that admission.

"On guard duty! I put them to guard the prisoners!" Celestia quickly clarified. 

"Oh, yeah, yeah that makes more sense."

"Now, not to be rude or anything but do you think…?"

"… Don't worry. I will leave now."

"Thank you, and once again I'm sorry, but I need to get this done as quickly as possible." She apologized before getting back to work.

Blueblood nodded and left her in peace to tackle the prodigious amount of documents that were awaiting her signature.

Jesus and that is only with day court? How did she manage to stay sane all those years moving the sun and the moon by herself? The prince pondered, imagining her misery as he closed the door behind him and heads straight to the dungeon.

As he descended the levels of the castle, the light of the day soon was replaced by torches and hooded lanterns, illuminating the way as the prince continued to descend the stone stairs deeper beneath the castle until eventually, he reaches the lowest level in the castle. Rows upon rows of jail cells extend as far as the eye could see. Some of their occupants take glances at the prince as he advances, searching for his friends. Finally, at the far corner where a single bar window let some sunshine slip through, Blueblood managed to find not only the same crime bosses he helped arrest but Stellar and Amber guarding their cell wearing regular royal guard uniforms and armor.

The sound of his hooves on the stone floor soon alerted the two who lowered their weapons towards him. "Halt! Who goes there?!" Amber commanded.

"Stand down soldier," Blueblood responded as he stepped up and into the light. "I'm just here to see my friends," He told the two of them with a knowing smile. Amber and Stellar regarded him, confusion evident on their faces. "Your…highness?" Amber asked, squinting her eyes a little to see him better. "Is that you?"

"Oh, right, my mane." Blueblood pulled some of his hair so they can see him better, earning a gasp from the two.

"There, see? It's me, Blueblood." 

"Prince Blueblood it is you!" After having a good look at the prince, both broke protocol and brought him into a hug "Oh thank the stars you're safe and sound. Stellar and I…" Both mares realized what they were doing and quickly ended the hug before taking a step back with matching blushes.

"I…I mean we are glad to see you that you have returned to us, your highness, we can only imagine how much bliss your return brought to the princesses," She adjusted her tone and avoided making eye contact as Stellar just nodded rapidly in agreement, making the prince chuckle a little.

"I'm glad to see you two, as well" His expression turned into one of wonder "Although I'm also confused, you two are both some of the best soldiers Equestria has ever had, the elite in the rankings, the very best. Why are you here on guard duty? Not that is anything wrong with that of course but from what Shining Armor has told me about your exploits, this…seems like a waste of your talents."

Both mares lowered their heads and sighed "The month you disappeared was pretty harsh on all of us your highness" Amber confessed, looking back at him "The day after your exile, Princess Celestia was understandably livid for what happened, honestly we were with her, the only thing we wanted to do was to bring you back safely and capture the scoundrels that tried to end your life"

The assassin Blueblood nodded once.

"Yet her highness had other plans for us, and after we failed so miserably protecting the castle…me in particular." Amber clenched her teeth in guilt, surprising the prince with that reaction before Stellar put a hoof on her shoulder to comfort her. "A punishment was in order."

"Amber…what exactly happen?" The prince asks, worry etched in all of his features.

"The princess demoted us, your highness" Both raised their heads and looked back at him.

"De–Demoted you?!" Blueblood asked, shocked as they nodded.

"To foot soldiers, with orders to guard the dungeons. That is why we are here, wearing these uniforms," Amber explains in sorrow.

"But that…that seems too extreme. What happened that night was something beyond your control."

"Be that as it may, what's done is done. We have our new assignments, and we will fulfill our duty no matter what until further notice." Amber responded with determination, "That is our code, obligation, and honor as royal guards of Equestria."

Stellar nodded and both returned to their posts.

The prince smiled and pulled out the scroll Celestia had given him. "Then, you can consider your assignment completed."

Both looked at him confused as he levitated the scroll to them, "Like I said, being here is a waste of your talents. You both deserve positions that fits your capabilities. One that I would love to have you back in. That is, of course, if you would like to have it back."

"Your Highness this is…I mean," Amber read the document carefully before looking at Blueblood again "You want to take us on as your guards again?" She asked incredulously, "Even after we…after I…" She looked away, confusing the prince again.

"Of course! I would love to have you both back again as my guards; at first, I had my reservations about having two guards following everywhere. But you have become more than just my bodyguards. You two are my friends." He assured them with a smile, "And nothing would make me happier than having my friends with me once more."

"But I…I failed," She insisted still not making eye contact with him "I put so many ponies at risk."

"Amber?" The prince looked at her, confused.

"C…can I think about it?" She finally looked back at him.

"Um... sure, take as much time as you wish" He then looked to Stellar as well "Both of you, don't get me wrong, this isn't an order. You can easily say no. Just tell me what other assignments you wish to have, and I will see to it that you get it" He assured them with a pained, forced smile, trying to mask his disappointment.

"Thank you, highness, that is all we ask for," She informed him with a nod.

"Of course, once you have reached your decision, you know where to find me then." He tells them before beginning to walk away "Well, I should probably be going. There are still some things that I need to take care of today. It was…nice talking with you two. I hope we can catch up on things some other time."

"Another moment, sir!" Amber called out, her eyes wide with fear, "Please don't wander too far from the castle!"

"I can't make any promises," Blueblood replied, disappearing in the hallways. Once he was gone, Stellar glare at her friend.

"Don't look at me like that, I made the right call, and you know why, I can't go back to the field, not yet."

Stellar raised an eyebrow in response.

"I can't!"

Stellar only sighed and shook her head before looking ahead of herself.

"…you know, there is no need for you to suffer here with me, if you want, you can take the offer and…"

Stellar shook her head and planted her hooves firmly on the ground, making Amber sighed and shook her head.

"You're a stubborn mule, guilt-tripping me with the loyalty card? That's a low blow."

Stellar responded by smirking back to her friend "…Shut up!" Amber responded in irritation as they went back to their work.
> Verdict (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------



With special guest, Mr. Bean!







The silence in the courtroom was deafening and only grew with every second that passed. Upper Crust and Jet Set felt as if they were losing gallons of water from sweating as they kept waiting for the verdict of the jury. Luna kept them both transfixed with a stern gaze on both of them. By now they were now sweating a river, eyes darting their back and forward in a futile effort that somehow, a way out would present itself for them. The whole situation brought a bright smile to Commander Hurricane as she watched from the gallery with glee, happy to see justice served. 

Serves them right; that's what you get for soiling the sacred tradition of a duel! 

Eventually, a group of twelve ponies re-entered the court and took their respective seats. "Has the jury reached a verdict?" Luna asked. 

"We have, your highness," One pegasus mare replied. Standing up, as she continued, "We, the members of the jury, find the accused guilty of abuse of power, perjury, and assault on the crown." 

The color of Jet Set and Upper Crust's fur fled their bodies when the princess nodded in confirmation before slowly turning to regard the noble pair. "That is all I wanted to hear." 

"Y–Your Highness please, have mercy on us, we were fools playing with fire, we learned our lesson, we promise that it will not…" Jet tried to say something, but Luna silenced him with a bang of her gavel. 

"SILENCE!" She commanded with the Royal voice, causing both of them to flinch and took a step back. 

"Jet Set and Upper Crust. A jury of your peers has tried you and found you guilty on all charges, with this verdict, and the severity of your crimes, I find myself of the opinion that an appropriate punishment for you would be to cover you two in honey and place you in a cage in the middle of Everfree forest for the remainder of your miserable lives if not all of eternity!" She yelled at them with glowing white eyes, making them screech in panic. 

Luna softens her gaze and sighs before sitting back on her chair again. "But since that form of capital punishment was banned over five hundred years ago, and ironically, your involvement helped resolve the economic crisis in its own twisted way, Blood Moon gave you a form of punishment, and my nephew illogically, plead that I have mercy on your miserable hides, I'll offer you a choice."

The room was soon filled with whispers as the nobles looked at her in confusion, Luna continued. 

"Due to the severity of your crimes, I present you with two options: Your first choice is to spend the next three years on Gelid Maiden with all of your monies, assets, and sources of income reclaimed or nationalized by the crown, there you will be cut off from the public completely. Your second choice will see you sentenced to house arrest and community service until the crown revokes your sentence; Again, your monies, assets, and funds shall be seized or nationalized and repurposed. Necessities such as food and medicine shall be provided to you, and your only form of contact with the outside world will be with visiting hours and mandatory re-education and evaluation sessions with a specialist to reform you from your previous behavior. Once we are satisfied that you have realized the errors of your ways and reformed, you will be reintegrated back into society." She explained. "What is going to be?" 

"Might the...privilege of receiving the daily newspaper be put to the discussion?" Jet Set asked hesitantly before his wife jabbed him hard in the ribs, making him hold his chest and kneel trying to get back his breath. 

"Please ignore that; we will take the house arrest offer. Thank you, your highness," Upper informed the court and bowed, her husband soon doing the same as best he could. "Your kindness can only be matched with your wisdom princess, thank you so much for having mercy on these two poor souls." 

"Not so fast!" The couple looked back at her as she glared at them both. "Do not misunderstand my actions. This mercy comes not from me, but from my nephew, you live and serve only because of his kindness and because he believes that you both should be allowed the opportunity to redeem yourselves. This doesn't mean you are yet safe from punishment. To give you an idea of what happens if you mess up this only chance…" Luna turns to one of her guards "…Guards! Their right hoofs." She orders pointing to the noble couple. 

The guards looked at her, confused but follower her orders approaching the pair, drawing their swords, making Jet Set and Upper Crust flinch and hold their hoofs tightly towards their barrels. 

"What? NO! I mean grab their hooves so they can't move away." Luna clarified when she noticed where this was going. 

The guards nodded, sheathing their blades before restraining the couple. As they stretched their hoofs out in front of them, Jet Set and Upper Crust watched as the princess flew down from the judge's bench. "Before I proclaim this case closed, there is something I would like to teach you." She charged her horn and then in front of her a single nearly transparent thread appeared. "Meet a single hair of the Dendrocnide Moroides**, or as it more commonly called 'The suicidal plant,' do you know why it has that particular name?" Luna asks as she slowly levitated the hair closer to their hooves. The second it made contact-

The entire room went white with shock as they listened to how the two ponies screamed in complete and utter agony just from the light touch until Luna summoned a liquid that she poured on their hoofs, ending the pain. 

Once they recovered their breathing, Luna spoke again. "What you experienced was a single stinger from this plant of nightmares, one that I increased in size so you could see it. That is right, the hair that this plant has is microscopic, and believe you me, every single one will hurt just as much. So tell me, what do you think would happen if a hair managed to find its way into your eyes? Or if you inhaled it by accident?" 

Both ponies gulped in terror at the implications. "I think we understand each other. Now, my nephew wanted me to have mercy on your souls and trusts that you can learn your lesson. The stars know why, but he does. He has been kind to you, and against my better judgment, I have decided to listen to him and give you a minor punishment." She continued to get closer to them. "But mark my words, the very second you dare break that trust, next time you are in a court, things will go down MY way, and I will do everything in my power to ensure that you two, take a nice looooong bath in a tub full of the plants that produce these hairs. Do I make myself clear?" She threatened the two as they nod rapidly, sweating like there is no tomorrow. 

"Good." Luna returned to her bench and took up her gavel. "You can release them now, guards." The royal guards compiled and released the two sentenced. "I Princess Luna, do hereby sentence you into house arrest, indefinitely, with all of your sources of income claimed by the crown. Further, you are sentenced and compelled to attend rehabilitation sessions with ponies chosen by my sister or me." She hit the gavel on the podium. "Case closed. Guards, escort Mrs. Crust and Mr. Set back to their home, and prepare it with the necessary spells on a house arrest protocol." 

"At once, your highness." One guard responded with a salute before they take the couple away as the ponies in the courtroom slowly began to file out. 

"House arrest? Really!? That is it? You are going to let them walk away just like that?" Hurricane hissed out, approaching Luna both confused and angry. "At least cover the place with that plant, just to be safe, please?" 

"Trust me, I thought about it, but those hairs can blow off too easily, Commander," Luna responds with a sigh. "It would simply be too risky." 

"Damn it, Rookie! Why did you have to be so soft on them?" Hurricane complained under her breath before she shook her head. "Gosh, I hate how soft Equestria had become when it comes to punishments." 

"…Not that soft." Luna responded with a smile as she flies back next to her gaining Hurricane’s attention. 

"Huh?" 

Luna sees how Scarlet winks at her before marching off, giving the princess a small shiver down her spine. "Let just say; those two should have asked for clarification into what entitles 're-education' sessions." She responded with a smile before leaving. 

"Stardust, what did you do? And will it make me happy?" Hurricane asks, intrigued as Luna yawns. 

"It will suffice, and I will explain later on in the evening. Until then, good day Commander," Luna finished before charging her horn. 

"Stardust don't you dare…" But before she could finish her protest, Luna was already gone, making her grumble. "God damn it!" She sighed before looking at the window where she can see the noble couple being escorted to their home. "Calm down Hurricane, calm down, just let them go. It’s not worth it to stay mad..." She chanted to herself, trying to calm down. "You will find out tonight, gosh I need a drink." She then notices several guards walking through the hallway. "Hey, tin cans! Any of you know where the nearest bar is?" She calls out chasing after the group of guards. 

Meanwhile

The Prince marched to his next destination of the day when the unmistakable smell of pastries and cookies assaulted his nose and immediately made his stomach growl. A smile spread across his face while he detoured towards the kitchen. Inside, he was not surprised to find that both Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie were currently working while sharing recipes with none other than Chancellor Pudding Head. All three mares were singing a happy tune while baking another batch of cookies, the pile of pastries was slowly starting to form around them.

"I see you three have been busy," The Prince remarked, with a slow whistle as he admires their hard work. 

"Bluey!" Pudding and Pinkie both look at him with a smile and a wave. "Still haven't taken care of your little issue, I see." Pudding replied with a smirk. 

"Aw, I don't mind, I like hugging fluffy Blueblood!" Pinkie scolded with a smile making the prince chuckle.

"I will take care of that later, but first, I wanted to talk to you before you went back to Ponyville. But I see there was something you wanted to do before leaving," he says, gazing meaningfully at all the food.

"Well, of course, there is! This is Chancellor Pudding Head that we are talking about here! Bluey?! Chancellor. Pudding. Head." Pinkie exclaimed punctuating her last words for emphasis. "Do you have any idea of the stories her dishes have inspired  throughout out the history of cooking? Some of her recipes are the stuff of legends!" Pinkie gossiped in excitement, catching the Prince entirely off guard. 

"They are?" He asked, looking at Pudding Head, who nodded with a small smile. 

"There has yet to be a pony that can match me in the kitchen, Prince. What do you think this hat stands for?" 

"I…mostly though it was a fashion choice." The Prince answered a little sheepishly. 

"And a tasty snack!" Pudding added as she reached up and grabbed an actual scoop of pudding from her head before eating it. 

"A snack hat! Genius, why didn't I think of that!" Pinkie blurted out, totally impressed. 

"Because you are still thinking inside the box, kid." Pudding answered. "Sometimes, instead of asking why you shouldn't? You should ask why not?" 

"So true." 

"Now come on, let's see what you got!" She extolled the party mare before casting a critical eye to Pinkie’s latest dish. Blueblood meanwhile, turned his attention to Fluttershy. 

"How long have those two been cooking?" 

"Since this morning; Pinkie even asked for my help before they started, she wanted to impress the Chancellor," Fluttershy answers with a shy smile. "Although I can't blame her too much. When I was a filly, my mom used to tell me stories of the chancellor and how her dishes were capable of saving Equestria from going to war on more than one occasion." 

"Oh boy…I hope that's an exaggeration." Blueblood mumbled to himself while looking away, then turning his attention back to the two other mares. "I mean while I trained with her, Princess Platinum, and Commander Hurricane, I tasted some of her food, and she was pretty good, but I didn't know she was that good." 

"That's because I had very little to work with Prince, buuuut just you wait! Tonight I am going to cook you something that will make your taste buds do a backflip, and school those two noobs!" Pudding promised confidently before resuming work. 

"Two?" Blueblood questioned before looking at Fluttershy. "You are going to enter in their little cookoff?" 

"Oh no, she was referring to Mr. Baked Bean." Fluttershy clarified.

"Who?" 

"Right here, sir." Following the source of the voice, the Prince gasped and took a step back at the sight of a brawny giant of an earth pony. Who stood in front of a cutting board and was chopping celery with the skill and precision of a master chef. He had yellow fur, light brown short cut mane, and tail, a cutie mark of pages on top of what looks like a sun. The stallion appearance was completed by a chef's uniform that barely contained his ripped and chiseled body and a simple white apron.

When seeing his reaction, Bean couldn't help but chuckle and shake his head. "Sorry about that your highness, ponies usually get afraid at first but don't worry, I'm just one big teddy bear." He assured the Prince as he finished chopping the celery before putting the pieces in a bowl and then cleaning his hoofs with his apron. "The name is Baked Bean, by the way, and I would gather that you have no recollection of who I am, correct?" He asked with a raised eyebrow as the Prince can only shake his head in response. 

"Yep, I figured as much, well better get the basics out of the way, I'm the royal head chef of the castle, a prolific writer and adventurer…" He then turned to Pudding Head with a smirk. "…and soon to be the stallion that will take the title of the best chef in Equestria from the current champion." He announced with pride, making Pudding Head match his expression. 

"We will see about that!" 

Baked returned his attention to the Prince. "Anyway, since I don't think we have ever talked even once, it is nice to meet you for the first time, your highness, formally." 

"L…Likewise." The Prince answered, finally recovering from the shock. 

Dear God, just the muscles in his hooves are bigger than my head! He is not a pony; he is the incredible Hulk painted yellow! What is he doing on a kitchen? The Prince thought, still processing how huge Baked Bean was.

Fluttershy giggled and approached Blueblood. "Don't worry, Blueblood. I was surprised when I saw him first, too.”

"They are quite the eyesore, aren’t they?" Bean remarked with a smirk snapping Blueblood back to reality. "Sorry, sorry I didn't mean to stare just, I never thought that I would see an earth pony capable of getting this buff…" Well not without been covered in gold and going into a rampage, at least. "…or find one, working as a chef."

"Well, what can I say, your highness? A good diet and regular exercise will do that to your body too, and there is more to a book than just the cover, right?" 

"Oh, dear God! I'm so sorry, and I didn't mean to assume anything, really I just…I just did, did I?" Blueblood confessed, looking down in shame. 

"Hey, it ok your highness it is." Bean approached him in concern, offering a surprisingly gentle pat to the shoulder of the Prince. "You didn't offend me, and I understand where you're coming from, it's not that often that you see a chef this buff, right? I get that question all the time." He consoled, trying to cheer the Prince up. 

"Maybe, but still that does not excuse to be assuming things," Blueblood argued back weakly, still feeling wrong about what he implied. 

"Like me assuming that you were about to bring about another eternal night when you transformed into a pony of shadows?" Baked Bean replied while crossing his forelegs while cocking his head to the side, showing genuine concern. 

"Yeah exactly like…" Blueblood stopped for a moment before looking at the chef who smiled and then sighed with a slow chuckle and shake his head. "Touche." 

"So let's say, we both were wrong and just moved on? Hmm, what do you say?" 

"I wouldn't mind that at all," Blueblood nodded at the proposal, "So…do you mind if I ask how you ended up so big anyway?" 

"Not at all your highness! Although it is a bit of a long story and its not all that great. Though if you still wish to hear it…" 

"Oh! Oh! I want to hear it too!" 

"Me too!" Pudding Head and Pinkie Pie exclaimed in near unison before getting in front of Baked Bean while enjoying some of the pastries that they had made. Pinkie even gave Fluttershy and Blueblood  bags of popcorn. Fluttershy who looked confused, rolled with it as one does when they know Pinkie for long enough. 

"Ah, this is not exactly a campfire story either." Baked Bean protested seeing how the mares were looking at him expectantly. 

"Storytime!" They say in unison. 

"Better tell them, Mr. Bean, trust me. Pudding Head loves to hear stories." Blueblood commented with a knowing smirk as he decided to enjoy the offer treat. 

"Same with Pinkie," Fluttershy added, and the mares nodded rapidly in agreement.

He sighs and shakes his head with a chuckle "Well if you insist, back when I but a simple colt of Baltimare, I used to be a part of a hoofball team in my school. However, we weren't exactly front-page material. But by Celestia did we have fun playing the game. We played with all our heart!" He began, reminiscing of the good old days. "This was before I took my training more seriously by the way so…just imagine me smaller, thinner, and not very athletic." 

That comment made Pinkie gasp. "You used to be thin and small? No way!" 

Bean only chuckled and nodded. "Yeah I know, quite the transformation, am I right? Anyway, there was this one year where our team was doing good, and I mean real good. All of our sacrifices finally started to pay off, and we were giving our opponents a run for their bits. We honestly started to think we had a shot when we qualified to participate in a tournament between schools." He tells in excitement. 

"Naturally, we were all pumped up and looking forward to playing with the big boys at the time. Yeah, it sounds silly now, but for colts in high school, a tournament like that was a huge deal. Unfortunately, our coach took the celebration too far. We were all underage back then, but he thought that we all could use a little "reward" from our efforts…in the form of a bottle of hard whiskey." He mentioned in sorrow. 

"Oh, my goodness! Did…Did you all drink it?" Fluttershy asks, and to her horror, he nods. 

"We were young and stupid back then, and the coach keeps saying that one sip, wouldn't be a problem…until one sip became two, two became a glass, a glass became half a bottle and then…" the chef closed his eyes and shook his head. "I…don't want to go into the details so let's say, the very next day we all had regrets of the night before. One of our friends even almost ended up hurting himself badly." 

The collective gasp at that led to Bean only sighed and shook his head. "By sheer luck, none of us were expelled, and all the blame was placed on the coach who was fired almost immediately. That was probably the hardest time in my life; we all still wanted to play in the tournament, but with what happened that night, the passion we had was all gone, and a lot of us were starting to question if we deserved a shot at the game. During that time my mom came to me, and when I told her how I wanted to quit the team, she patted my head and asked me 'will you be ok, in letting go of that opportunity?'" He smiled and nodded at the memory before looking at them again. 

"It took me a while to understand, but when it did, I remembered why I joined the team in the first place; it was to have fun. To make friends, and to learn the value of doing something with passion. That's what I loved the most in those games. I just couldn't let the mistakes of one lousy coach ruin it for my friends and I. So with my dad helping as the new coach and with a new objective in my mind. I did the only thing I could." He continued with pride. 

"It’s not exactly to brag or anything, but all the ponies on my family are all pretty decent chefs, and we own a very respectable restaurant. So, for the sake of my friends, I decided to follow in the family footsteps." 

"Yay!" Pinkie and Pudding Head cheered at that point. "Cooking saves the day!" Making the royal chef chuckle, 

"Not quite ladies, but it did help reignite the passion we had for hoofball, and by the stars, my mom was right. Even when we didn't win, playing in that tournament was one of the best memories I have, especially the celebratory meal we all held right after it finished. We even invited the other teams to join in, and I gladly took on the task of serving all of them!" He tells in confidence. "Seeing all their happy faces and sharing stories filled me with pride and happiness, and that event helped me find out what I wanted to do in my life. That feeling I had from seeing everyone eating happily, the adventure we all had, and the ordeals we went through to get to those happy endings. I needed to record it somehow, so soon after I graduated and I finished my first book inspired by that event. I went on a tour throughout the world, seeking adventures, stories, and tasty new foods." 

"Wow," Pudding said, impressed by the story as he flexed his muscle a little. "Yep, from the cold mountains of Yakyakistan to the smoldering valleys of the Dragon Lands, I have wandered the entire planet. Don't know when or how exactly it happened, but when I looked at my reflection one day, and I found myself having this bulky body." He concluded with no small measure of embarrassment.

"And that is how you got so buff then!" The Prince exclaimed as he nodded. 

"Yeah, sorry for not saying it right away, but I just love to tell that story," Bean confessed, and Blueblood shook his head. "It ok, you simply are passionate about your job." 

"Yep, and once I was done, I came back since Canterlot was, ironically, the final place I hadn’t visit, and when I found out the horrors that other ponies pass off as "food" here. I knew that I needed to do something about it. So I requested a job at the castle and here I am now," He finished his tale with a small bow, "happily doing the same thing I have been doing since I was a colt, bringing smiles to ponies with my cooking, going on the occasional adventure, writing more books, and sharing stories with my friends." 

He looks at one particular picture, expression emanating pride, which shows him and Celestia garnishing a stack of pancakes. "Princess Celestia, in particular, has a vast collection of stories to tell. Princess Luna is still a little too reserved to tell me much about her life, but she will come around, I know it." He mentioned with a nod before smirking at Pudding Head. 

"Just like I know that you are going down, Pudding Head!" 

"Ha bring it! Baked Bean, my ten-layer chocolate triple reverse split will beat anything you have!" 

"And my Mmmmhhhmmm will beat your two dishes." Pinkie soon joined in on the banter. 

"Oh yeah?" 

"Yeah!" 

"Then let the best chef win!" All three say at the same time and start to work on the kitchen once more. Fluttershy and Blueblood were left blinking at their competitive friends before sharing a look and as one began to back away towards the kitchen door, not wanting to get caught in between the chefs and their work.

"Well, I think it's safe to say that tonight, we are going to eat like…ah, royalty?" The Prince stopped himself once he realized the unintentional pun he just made. 

Fluttershy only chuckled lightly and nodded. "Yeah, I suppose we will." 

Blueblood shared Fluttershys merriment for a moment before shaking his head and looking at the entrance of the kitchen. "I wonder if this is what they meant with 'if you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.'" Blueblood wondered out loud as Fluttershy nods. 

"Don't know, but when it comes to food competitions, I've seen Pinkie get almost as intense as Rainbow Dash," She commented before looking at Blueblood. 

"Also, what did you want to talk to us about Blueblood? You said that there was something you needed to tell us?" 

"Oh right, that," Blueblood remembered the reason for his visit and sighed before looking at Fluttershy. "I was wondering, could you give me some advice on how to talk to my aunts about a particularly touchy subject?" 

"Oh my, what is it?" She asked in concern. 

"Well you see, before my exile, there was something on my mind that was driving me crazy, and I haven't had the time to address it properly. I don't even know if I have the right to request this but I…" He looks down at his hooves and tries to find the right words before giving up and looking Fluttershy directly in the eye. "…I want to visit my parents' graves."
> Scarlet Revenge (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After their sentencing had been handed down, the noble couple of Jet Set and Upper Crust were promptly escorted back to their home and were fitted with two enchanted bracelets. The two items were to serve as traces, making sure the guards were informed and aware of their every move. If they ever left the premises without authorization, the bracelets would lead to their swift recapture. The pair gulped at the memory of Princess Luna's promise of what will happen if they ever break that promise. A silently fuming Jet set asked a guard, "Are we done here?" as the guard continued to mutter incantations, placing even more enchantments in the house.  

"Be grateful that the princess was kind enough to grant you a choice of food and the possibility of visiting hours. If I had been the one rendering your sentence, I would have found a nice dark hole, put you in a cage there, and left you both there to rot." the guard responded with a clipped tone and a glare before finishing his work. "That is all. The moment we step out of the house, your sentence will start. Visiting hours will be from 2 to 3 pm, your community service will begin tomorrow at 8 am sharp. Be ready by then, or be prepared for a rude awakening. In case of a medical emergency, the cauldron to summon aid is right there." He droned out, pointing at the object in question. “Do you have any questions?”

"How much community service we will have to do?" Jet inquired with a tilted head, honestly curious.

"As much as the Princesses tell you." The guard responded sharply before leaving the premises with his comrades.

The moment the last one exited the house closing the door behind him, Upper Crust sighed and plopped herself down onto a nearby couch. "Sentenced to house arrest and community service indefinitely; by the stars, the girls in the country club will NOT let me hear the end of this when we finally do get out." She complained, placing her hooves on her face. 

"Would you rather we take that bath of nightmares or have gotten sent to Gelid Maiden?" Jet Set asked with a shiver that made its way down his spine before approaching his wife. "Let those ponies speak their minds, honey, it will just be a passing trend. Heavens know that not a day passes in Canterlot without some new piece of gossip waiting to be told makes the rounds." Jet comforted Upper Crust as he nuzzled her cheek. 

"Oh sweetie, you think so?" 

"I know so, and if not, we will make it happen. After all, we ARE the face of nobility. Blueblood might be the prince, but we know how high society works here. And there is nothing they can say that will keep us down." He assured with confidence, bringing a smile to Upper Crust until they both were startled by a familiar chuckle.  

"You chose the wrong profession, Jet, dear." Looking around the couple started searching for Scarlet until they found her lounging in a spinning chair as she slowly turned around to meet them while slowly shaking a glass of wine in her magic grasp. "You could have been such a wonderful actor," she continued while regarding the contents of her drink.  

"Scarlet Lips? But the guards were here less than a minute ago, how did you get in?" Upper Crust asked in anger as she stood up. "And more importantly, did you just break into our house to gloat?" She questioned with raising ire. Scarlet responded with a lilting giggle as she took a sip of her beverage before responding. "Oh Upper Crust you have it all wrong, I didn't come here to gloat, though since you brought it up…" She finally looked up to regard them both with a crooked smile"…I told you so~." 

"Go ahead Scarlet, kick a couple when they are down, a real professional." Jet lambasted with an irritated shake of his head before freezing as the feeling of weightlessness overcame him. His body was lifted into the air, and he soon found himself face to face with the angry frown of Scarlet Lips, her eyes staring right at his soul.

"Do NOT lecture me about professionalism!" She hissed out with poison in her voice before letting him go and smiling cheerfully again. "Now then, shall we begin?" She inquired before finishing her drink

"Begin?" Upper Crust echoed. Her body language was noticeably confused, making Scarlet Lips chuckle again. "So soon; did you forget about your re-education sessions? Honestly, Upper Crust, I expected better from you," she shook her head in disappointment. "Such a poor first impression are you two making to your court-appointed counselor." 

"WHAT?!" Jet Set exclaimed, recovering from being dropped and joining his wife in shock, the couple glanced at each other before blurting out simultaneously. "You are our rehabilitation teacher?" they asked in fury.

 At that moment, the couple started to hear more female voices coming from multiple directions. "Oh, please, like you could be that lucky. No, I'm not going to be in charge of your education." Scarlet's smile suddenly turned malicious. "I'm just here to watch." 

"W-Watch what?" Jet Set demanded, doing his best to keep the fear he felt growing in his stomach at bay. Giving up in finding the source of the chuckle, he returned his gaze to Scarlet. All of a sudden, his heart skipped a beat when he felt something grabbing his shoulders. "Our first lessons." A low feminine voice answered him in a whisper. 

Startled, Jet Set lept forwards while pivoting to regard his assailant while backing away. A statuesque female diamond dog, with white fur, and a slim body with an hourglass shape stepped out of the shadows. Jet Set continued his retreat until Upper Crust reached his side and stopped his movements while eyeing the new intruder. The canine completed her ensemble with spiky short ginger hair framing her face and accessorized with a diamond necklace adorning her neck. Her tail was straight and fluffy, and her form wore a long clean vest and fedora. Her beauty was marred only by the smile that she wore. Her grin was full of fangs, and her eyes did somehow had a sharklike quality, predatory. As she padded forward with silent paws, the couple discovered that she was twice the size of a fully grown male Diamond dog, and despite having sharp nails, on could quickly tell that they were well cared for by an excellent pedicure job.   

"Aww, he's shy. Good!" The diamond dog tittered in excitement before her gaze suddenly turned wicked. "That means that he will listen to instructions!" 

Sensing a threat, Upper Crust instinctively moved forward and glared at the canine, stepping between her and Jet Set.  

"Oh? And the mare has moxie? I like that, and it can be terrific too. The name's Roxy by the way, you'd better remember." She continued, winking at Jet Set. "Because you are not going to forget me." 

"Scarlet, what is the meaning of this?!" Upper Crust demanded. Her fury building while the Roxy kept eyeing the two ponies. 

"Roxy just told you" A new voice was heard, and coming from their bedroom where a glowing pair of eyes could be seen in the darkness. An anthropomorphic cat, with long messy hair, and fur black as a new moon night slinked forwards. The dark felines form contrasted by the crisp white of the nurses uniform that she wore as she glided into the room. "This is your first lesson, and as your nurse, I suggest you stay calm. My name is Velvet, by the way, it's nice to meet you." She addressed them with a polite curtsey. 

"So these are the recruits?" A dark purple dragons tail lifted Jet Set into the air until he was face to face with a pair of reptilian yellow eyes. Upper Crust craned her neck around and saw a humanoid dragoness with two long horns at the top of her head and four smaller ones running along her jawline. Her belly had light purple scales, which grew darker as they spread across the dragon's form. This was observable through the police officers uniform that had its middle tied tantalizingly on the dragon's hip. Her beauty was only complimented by the silver choker that rested neatly at her collarbone. She draped herself around on the rafters while inspecting Jet Set with a critical eye. "A bit small for my taste, and I don't see much of a muscle here, but I suppose I can work with this." She informs the growing group with a shrug.  

"Come on, Uru, you are judging too fast!" A griffin, half cougar and the half eagle called out. Her eyes were accented by purple eyelashes and three feathers on the top of her head in a fauxhawk. She was also wearing a police uniform, and the end of her wings had decorative purple plumage worked in with her feathers. After circling him, the griffin perched herself next to the dragon and looked over to her dragon friend. "He can be perfect for the underdog act. Nobody would expect a pony that looks so weak to pull anything off! Oh, I'm Feral, by the way, its a pleasure to meet you." 

 "HEY!" Jet Set complained in anger. 

Upper Crust moved to try to intervene, but before she could do anything, she was levitated into the air and into the arms of Roxy who restrained her in a hug. "Ah, ah! Upper Crust, remember" To the shock of the two ponies. None other than Princess Luna walked toward her with a smile and her horn shining. "You have to assist in these lessons." Suddenly her body burst into purple flames revealing a tall and slim female changeling wearing a copy of Princess Luna's armor and regarding Upper Crust with a smirk. Her body was dark blue, her hair was long and silver, and her wings resembled those of a dragonfly.

 "So it will be in your best interest that you don't resist too much, and instead start with the introductions, I will start. my name is Gerbera, but when I'm in character, you can address me as 'your highness.''" she informed, turning back into Princess Luna and putting her hoof under her chin as she looked at Upper Crust. "Now let's see. What role would be fitting for you? The damsel in distress?" 

"Isn't that old cliche done to death?" Velvet complained, followed by a roll of her eyes before thinking too. "Oh, maybe the peddler? It's a cliche but a classic if done right, with so much potential."  

"Get away from ME!" Upper Crust yelled in frustration, teleporting away from their grasp, Jet Set soon following suit and soon both reappeared in the corner of the room away from the group, before eyeing Scarlet Lips who had a look of barely contained amusement on her face. "What is the meaning of all of this Scarlet?! I want an explanation, and I want it now!" 

"There it is! The fire, the passion! That mare is pure dynamite!" Roxy praised her and clapped her padded hands. "I vote for the villain role. She was born to do that!" 

"What?" Both Jet Set and Upper Crust replied, confused by that reaction. Scarlet merely shook her head. "Honestly, do I have to spell it out for you? This is your first improv class." She finally explained.  

"What? You mean…oh no, not in a million years, if you think I'm going to degrade myself for your amusement…!" Jet Set complained but stopped by the roar of Uru, who was now glaring daggers at him. 

"Choose your words carefully, sir. Unless you wish for your next role to be a roman candle." She warned a telltale trail of smoke escaping her lips as she spoke and her throat glowed with the barely contained fury of Dragonfire. 

"Scarlet you can't be serious, improv class? Really? You can't do this to us this…this can't be legal!" Upper Crust demanded with a big blush. Jet Set decided to keep quiet so as not to anger Uru even more. 

"But that's the thing honey, starting today, it IS!" Scarlet answered brightly before standing up and approaching a nearby desk. "Approved by none other than Princess Luna personally and put in circulation effective immediately." She showed them a small packet of documents with Luna's stamp and royal seal affixed on it, shocking the two. "And guess what fortunate couple just agreed to be the first test subjects in Canterlot's newest rehabilitation project?" 

"Rehabilitation? How does improv class help reintroduce criminals into society?" Jet Set asked, confused and a tad bit curious with this whole ordeal, while Upper Crust put her head underneath her husband's neck in a protective manner. 

"Criminals? Oh, honey, I'm afraid you got it all wrong. True you did attack royalty and all but kicked Equestria into a very nasty financial crisis. Oh, and you broke various rules, but to call yourself criminals? That sounds a bit excessive." Gerbera answered as she slowly approached the two. "I prefer the term, attention seekers." 

"Hey!" Upper Crust complained, insulted for being compared to a toddler, even if the observation was a bit on the snout.

"And to answer your question, the solution is fairly simple actually," Scarlet continued as she places some ink, a feather, and some blank scrolls down. "You see, despite the horrible things you did, and the suffering you forced the crown and country to endure for one whole month, nothing you did had any true malicious intent. At its core, all you ever wanted was some attention." 

"We are not toddlers!" Jet Set insisted, but his opinion was promptly ignored as Uru got closer to him, and taking advantage of his surprise, slipped a dampening ring on his horn. "Oh honey, I'm sorry but, even if you weren't, you sure acted just like one."  

"Both of you, actually." Roxy tells placing a similar ring on Upper Crust before she could do anything, "Not that there is something wrong with that of course. I respect those that seek out what they want." She confided, flashing her a smile full of fangs. 

"And that is why a certain suggestion came to the princess' ear, on how to help purge you of such childish behaviors," Scarlet commented while grinning at both of them. "By helping you imagine different scenarios and situations! A proactive way for you to see more points of view in a safe and more importantly, supervised way."

All the other woman started to approach the couple, and they now saw that they had dresses at the ready. 

"Can we at least choose what to act out? "Jet Set asked, gulping when he saw the garb of homeless individuals mixed with that of peasants. 

"I was going to give you the option, yeah," Uru explained. "But after hearing some of those comments, I believe someone needs a lesson in humility." 

"Just as I promised…I will be next." Scarlet commented in a low tone as she dips the tip of her feather on the ink. 

"Scarlet, what are you doing?" Upper Crust asked, taking notice of her actions. 

"Oh, this?" she asks, lifting her feather, "Well I suppose I was lying when I said that I wouldn't do anything. It seems that while you are going to be reenacting various theatrical plays, you will be helping me construct my latest book by acting out the scenes I write." She states with a cheerful tone. "Don't worry. I will make sure to give you credit for your assistance. As I have done with all of my friends here." She finished, pointing at the other woman in the room.   

"That's right." Velvet nodded as she started to move the furniture to make more room. "We have helped Scarlet with hundreds of books for years now, reenacting scenes and giving her suggestions on what to do or not to do. It is pretty funny and most of all, refreshing."  

"You should be honored; normally these sessions would require a lot of determination and stamina, for Scarlet to offer you to be part of the experience means that you can be something else," Gerbera confided to them with a smile. "So what do you say if we work together and have some fun?" 

"And refrain for any other comments about this being some form of degradation." 

"S…sure, sure! Let work together! Teamwork improved!" Jet answered, not wanting to get on the dragon's wrong side. 

Upper Crust sighed in defeat and rolled her eyes before smiling slightly. "Fine, still better than the alternative." 

"Now that is the spirit!" Feral cheered, bringing them into a group hug. "You will see! The two of you will love this. Scarlet wasn't lying either, and I think you could be a great actor Jet Set!"  

"Oh that reminds me, I should warn you now with the length of my books and how many tries it usually takes us. One improv session could last at least eight hours." Scarlet warned the couple who stared at her flatly for a couple of seconds before making a mad dash for the door. Unfortunately, Velvet and Uru caught both of them using their respective tails.  

"Remember, it's this or the bath~" Uru reminded them. "Better just accept it and comply or it will just get worse for you two." 

"Ok! Ok! Then what about this? Since this is our first day, we spend it just introducing ourselves, and telling each other such in a reaaaaallly long story form?" Jet suggested with his wife nodding in agreement rapidly, but the gathered cadre of women shook their heads as Uru lifted him into the air. "Nice try." 

"Ok ladies, back to the first problem, what role do we start with?" Gerbera asked her companions.     

"Got you covered dear," Scarlet called out with a smile before looking at the couple, "I say, explorers, lost in a jungle! And I know how to start things off!" She charged her horn, and the room suddenly transformed into a dense jungle, complete with vines, bugs, and stinging bushes. 

"What the…?" Jet asked, confused about what happened.  

"Just an illusion dear, to help you get into character," Scarlet answered before she disappeared with her friends. "Now let us begin, Chapter One: After weeks of grueling exploring and fighting starvation, we find ourselves trapped inside an uncharted jungle…" 

To the surprise of the couple, the second Scarlet finished the sentence, the couple could feel their stomach grumbling, and their hooves were aching. 

"Scarlet…how realistic can these sessions get?" Jet Set asked worried about the level of realism they were in now, a natural mosquito biting his snout.

"It's best if you don't find out, now if you please, start exploring." Scarlet directed them as two machetes appeared in front of the two. Looking at one another, the couple could only shrug and ultimately decided to go along.  

8 hours later

A refreshed and happy Scarlet Lips stepped out onto Upper Crust and Jet Set's balcony, before stretching and look at the moon. 

By Celestia mane, I haven't felt so invigorated in years!

She looked back with a smile as she sees all of her friends happily sleeping while laying around in the living room, the noble couple in the middle of the room wholly exhausted, dirty and bruised by the experience.  

Hmm, maybe I was a bit harsh on them for the first lesson. I should go easier on them in the next class. She nodded to herself before looking back at the castle and leaned on the rail of the balcony. 

"And once I'm through with them. You're next. Rest well my charming prince, soon enough I will get you." She whispers to the wind with dreamy eyes until the unmistakable voice of Pinkie Pie called at her far away in the distance. 

"No, you won't!" 

Scarlet's eyes widened in surprise before she glared at the castle. "Yes. I will!" 

"Noooooope!" 
> Royal Lineage (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The tension in the dining room was palpable as Pinkie Pie, Baked Bean, and Pudding Head were eagerly awaiting the results of their friendly competition. Hours before dinner, all three spent the day making dish after dish for a three-meal course meal, all with their signature flair. It was mostly just a match between friends, but it was also a matter of honor and in Pinkie and Baked Bean’s instance, a chance to best what they saw as another world legend. 

"So?" Baked Bean finally broke the tension by speaking and looking at the royals, the founders, and Fluttershy. "Which one did you like the most?" 

"Before I answer, I just want to say that all of you did a magnificent job." Celestia was the first to answer after daintily wiping her mouth with a napkin. "You three put your heart and soul into your dishes. I could feel how much passion and effort you put in each and every single one of them." 

"Indeed. These meals were certainly a trip down memory lane, and nothing would bring me more joy than to have the chance to eat delicacies such as these more often." Luna continued, earning a smile from Platinum who looked at the sisters like a proud teacher seeing their efforts paying off.  

"That being said, and although you all made one incredible effort, Pudding Head’s title as the best chef on Equestria still stands," Celestia informed them with a sad smile.  

"Indeed, even with thousands of years in absence, her dishes still rule supreme." Luna concluded with a satisfying nod, "As well as a neat trip down memory lane." 

"Yes!" Pudding Head hoof bumps the air in victory as her opponents looked down in defeat until Commander Hurricane voiced her opinion.  

"Not so fast, sunshine." 

Everyone looks at her as she smiled and tapped her plate. "As always, you are a softy when it comes to matters of family members, even when we were your teachers, you always kept calling us your 'aunts'." She stated with a wistful smile. "Adorable as fillies, but as mares, it’s time to take off the rose-tinted goggles and get serious." She pointed at Baked Bean. "And big yellow there, just wiped the floor with Pudding Head." 

"What?!" Pudding looked at her friend incredulously as Bean glanced at the commander in surprise and was then shocked when Princess Platinum nodded in agreement. "I’m afraid I have to agree with her dear, you three were always a bit clingy to us when growing up and at times, that always clouded your judgment in things like this." Platinum made a comment, which earned the confusion of Blueblood when he noticed that Platinum was referring to Celestia and Luna. 

Three?    

"Sir Bean here has an extraordinary knowledge of cuisine and all the variables of it, and the truth of the matter is that like everything else, dishes tend to evolve and grow. His courses certainly did. There is no shame in admitting defeat, dear, if anything I say that Sir Bean has more than earned the right of being your successor." 

"Lady Platinum, I don't know what to say, I, just…thank you," Bean stammered, and gave a bow in respect to both her and Hurricane until the commander stopped it. "Ah, we…don't exactly do that." 

"Well…I thought that it was a bit spicy." Fluttershy is next to talk, gaining everyone’s attention. "I-I mean it was tasty and everything, but your dishes were a bit too intense for my taste." She then smiled demurely and looked to at Pinkie Pie. "Pinkie’s plate felt more comfortable, more relaxed. I enjoyed hers just a tiny bit better, n-not that yours were bad, or anything. I just thought that…ah well I…kind of like her more than yours, just a tiny bit?" 

"Thank you, Fluttershy," Pinkie replied warmly.  

"Same," Blueblood said without looking as he played with some of the scraps on his plates and looked pensive. A reaction that both of the royal sisters and Fluttershy noticed.  

"Wait…so what does that mean...?" Pinkie asks. 

"Each of us got two votes so…did we get a draw?" Baked Bean asked, perplexed by the results. 

"Ooooooooh! I have never got one of those before!" Pudding mentioned in excitement. "What do we do now?" 

"I think we should have a tiebreaker somehow. Though I don't know how since we had a three-meal course contest," Bean mused, genuinely confused as to what to do.

While the three chefs continued to ponder what to do, Celestia whispered to Blueblood worryingly. "Blueblood? Is everything ok?" 

"Hmm? Oh yeah, everything is fine." The prince answered, finally looking back up.  

"Are you sure? you barely even touched your food." Luna voiced her own observations, "What is the matter? You didn't like it?" 

"No, the food was fine it was…well the thing is..." The prince kept struggling to find the right words until Fluttershy grabbed his hoof with her own for support. Blueblood looked at her, smiling, and soon he relaxed before nodding and looked to Celestia and Luna. "Aunties, there is something I need to ask you both, and I'm afraid it kind of a sensitive subject."

"What is it?" Celestia asked. 

"How did my parents die?" He finally managed to say, earning the attention of everyone in the room and creating a tense and eerie silence that lingered for what felt like years.  

"Blueblood how did you…?" Celestia began to inquire, but Blueblood interrupted her before she could say anything else.  

"Ever since the masquerade, I have been asking why I never once met my parents or found out who they are or why they were never here…as well as thinking about if I even have the right to ask about them or to meet them." He explained, looking down in sadness before looking back to Celestia. "A month ago, I couldn't take the pressure of not knowing anything anymore and started searching for them and trying to understand what happened. Why did neither of you even mention their names once? So imagine my shock when I asked for my blood lineage on the civil register in Manehattan and found…their obituaries" 

"Ahhhh…maaaaaybe, this sounds a bit personal. Perhaps we should be going for the time being?" Bean offered and tried to pull Pudding Head and Pinkie Pie away, but neither of them wanted to move. "You are right, Sir Bean this is a family issue, Fluttershy, Pinkie. Could you please give us a moment?" Platinum asked the two mares as they turn to regard her. "Please?" 

They both share a look, unsure. Ultimately, they nodded and complied, leaving the room along with Baked Bean.  

Once they were gone, the founders put their full attention to the royal sisters. "Just answer me this Celestia." Pudding asked in complete seriousness, catching everyone by surprise as she refused to look at her. "How long were you planning to wait before telling him about his parents?" 

"Chancellor Pudding, this isn't an easy subject to…" Celestia tried to speak, but Pudding interrupted her. 

"How long!?" She yelled, demanding an answer. 

"…When he was ready to hear it." the solar princess finally confessed, looking away. 

" When he was ready?" Pudding asked, finally looking at her. "Or when you were?" She asks before looking at Luna. "Did you know of this?" 

"Just recently, but…yes," Luna said, looking down as well making Pudding sigh in disappointment and shaking her head as she takes a seat. 

"Well, the wound is bleeding now, might as well just rip the bandage off already," Hurricane remarked, trying to ease the tension. "So how much did you find out rookie?" 

"Just that it happened twenty years ago." He looked back at his aunts. "Nothing else, I wanted to hear it from you aunties. I couldn't take that away from you. This needed to be something that I learned from you. Not a piece of paper, not a mortician, you. So I will ask again, how did it happen?" 

The royal sister looked at one another before sighing in defeat and looking down. "It not a story that I enjoy recalling." Celestia began. "Before our subjects had the chance to meet Luna again, the idea of Nightmare Moon struck fear and anguish into the hearts of some." 

"A misguided idea, fueled by myths and legends involving Nightmare Moon, and the notion that she might have followers among our family tree." Luna continued gaining the attention of Blueblood.  

Time seemed to freeze as both sisters recalled the events that transpired 20 years ago, how Blueblood could have had a chance for a normal childhood, and how his parents, a normal duke and duchess couple were nothing special among nobility except for their bloodline connection to Celestia. They then recalled how the assassin left their corpses around a now-orphaned Blueblood who didn't have anyone to turn to but his heartbroken aunt. 

"Royal Treatment and Formal Attire might not have been exactly the best when it came time to modesty, kindness, and at times even honesty but they were good ponies, and loving parents, who didn't deserve to die." Celestia now with teary eyes concluded the story. "To this day, I have yet to find the monsters that took them away, but when I do, and I promise you Blueblood. I will…They will answer for their crimes. They will be judged and punished with the full force of the justice system!" She swore in anger until Luna grabbed her hoof, helping her calm down. 

"Nephew, this is in no way an excuse, but I hope this helps you understand why we had our reservations in telling you this story, what happens to my nephews…is something I will never be able to forget…or forgive myself since it was my jealousy which provoked the creation of such horrible ideologies." Luna confessed, looking down in guilt.

"No." Blueblood shook his head. "It wasn't your fault Auntie. It was theirs. They and their stupid ideology were what caused that tragedy. Like I said, Nightmare Moon is more than just than a bedtime story. I would never blame you for what others did." He responded to her with a nervous smile, clearly trying to hide his emotions. The royal sisters weren't entirely sure if they had seen anger or sadness behind that mask. 

"Nephew, there is no reason for you to hold back your emotions. If you are sad or angry please, just let them out. No one here will think less of you from expressing yourself." Celestia encouraged him to let go, but Blueblood shook his head.  

"It's not that. It’s just that it's a sad story. My emotions are so conflicted. Even when I didn't know about them, I felt some connection with them, even when my soul is human. This body, this life. They are an important part of them, and I wish I was part of theirs as well. Would it be ok for me to think of them as my real parents?" 

"Of course its ok sweetie, like we have been telling you and will keep saying. You will always be a part of this family," Celestia assured, approaching Blueblood and nuzzling his cheek, "No matter what, I'm sure Royal and Attire would have gladly taken you as their son if they had the opportunity to meet you." 

"Thanks, auntie," Blueblood sighed, returning the gesture but still looking sad. 

"That is not all, isn't it nephew?" Luna wondered, noticing his expression, and he shook his head, letting go of Celestia. "As I said, I have been thinking a lot and started to wonder about my family roots, that is why I wanted to ask if I could go and visit their graves?"    

The princesses looked at each other in surprise and then back to him. "I mean, after everything that has happened, I think I'm ready to embrace who I truly am and to know more about my family. That is why I want to see them, in person. To talk to them, and say my goodbyes." He explained, looking down.  

The sisters kept looking at him before smiling. "Would that bring you peace, nephew?" 

"Yeah, that's all I want, so I can finally put my mind to rest." 

"Then we will gladly take you to them, sweetie," Celestia answered. "Anything for you, my kind fluffy nephew, you!" Celestia baby talked, unable to resist poking fun at his still fluffy coat and to bring him into another hug as she nuzzles his neck, tickling him in the process. 

"Oh come on auntie cut it out." Blueblood tells in between giggles, trying to get free from her hold 

"Never! Your fur is just so soft and fluffy! I will never let it go" She proclaims in happiness keeping her administration. 

“Aunt Luna help, please do something” Blueblood call for her other aunt help as he continue to laugh 

“Oh I will” She tells joining on the hug “By the stars, this is soft, would you mind if I use you as a pillow tonight dear nephew?” 

“No!” Blueblood tells in mock horror as they all three share a laugh 

"The Rookie is growing," Hurricane remarked with pride, as the founders let the family have their moment in peace while they spoke in a low voice, so as to not interrupt.  

"He sure is." Platinum agreed. "There is still a ways to go, but he is taking the first steps there." 

" Do you think he is ready to hear about Festivia?" Pudding asked her friends.  

"Not yet, I think he has learned enough of his family lineage for today. Her story can wait for another time." The three agreed with a silent nod before going in two different directions, Pudding toward the royal family and the other founders to the front door in order to get their friends back. "Group hug!" Pudding yelled before tackling the royals into the ground, 

"Oh! I want in too!" Pinkie cried out in excitement as she launched herself into the hug as well, making everyone share a laugh. 

Meanwhile on the balcony of the top floor of a luxurious apartment complex in Canterlot

"Birth of The Night Prince and his Terror Knights?" Sharp Shoot chuckled and shook his head as he put away a copy of tomorrow’s newspaper showing a picture of Blood Moon and his creations. "Cute." Using his wing, he took an apple from a nearby bowl as he continued to enjoy his dinner in peace while admiring the stars, until the arrival of Crossfire Tempo who marched into the room unannounced, breaking the silence as she approached the stallion. "Sharp Shoot, we need to talk," She said with a glare on her face, "You told me that by the time this is over I would have Blueblood in my hooves, you didn't say anything about a crisis, our friends being arrested OR that he'd be taking on an appearance similar to those annoying princesses!" She growled out in frustration. "This thing just went way out of hoof, and none of that plays in our direction."  

"You think so?" He asked rhetorically, taking a sip of his drink, confusing his partner. 

"Excuse me?" 



"True, things are different than what we expected, when I suggested the idea of a duel to those two idiots, my only interest was in seeing how our reformed prince would act under pressure, and deal with a potential crisis." He finished his drink and stood before heading back inside the room. "But exiling himself? Solving an economic catastrophe? Destroying four criminal families? Even achieving a new transformation? Things went far better than I thought they would and more importantly..." He looks back at his friend with a sinister smile, "Now we know how this new him, thinks under pressure and, by extension, what his capabilities are."   

"You mean that all of this was so that you could know what he is capable of?" Tempo asked in surprise. 

"A necessary step in order to achieve our goals." He answered, looking back and pulling the horn on a bust of Celestia which revealed a secret room behind a library. Inside was a cork board mounted on each of the walls with a series of photos of the main six, the tree of harmony, the Princesses, Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, and the six pillars. Alongside these were reams of papers and charts of statistics, powers, and natures of almost everything; All of which connected with a red string. "Do not fret my friend, I still remember our deal, and I intend to keep it. As a matter of fact…"  

He picked a picture of Blueblood and placed it underneath the royal sisters, connecting a new string to Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie "…the seeds of doubt, have already been planted," Shard Shot concluded in confidence. "Soon enough, those seeds will guide him in new directions." 

Meanwhile on the royal castle 

The rest of the dinner became more lively as everyone kept chatting and laughing, the princesses in particular been especially giddy and happy for how things have developed.  

"A direction full of questions…" 

Blueblood laughed and tried to push Celestia away as she refuses to let him go.  

"…questions that the princesses will be unable to answer…" 

Luna finally saved him, but so that she could lean on him as well.  

"…and that will eventually make him realize how flawed his supposedly perfect aunts are in reality."

Back at the apartment

Sharp Shoot finished writing some data on a sheet of paper and placed it next to the picture of Blueblood. "I suppose this would be the part where I told you how soon Blueblood himself would break all ties with the princesses. About how his resentment will erase any love toward them, but talking is cheap…" He looked back to her with a smile, "…and actions speak louder than words."
> Of Bites And Might (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Alright, your highness, open wide," Doctor Caliber instructed Blueblood as he checked his throat and teeth using a small pallet and a flashlight.

Following her aunt's wishes, and right after getting a mane and fur cut to take care of his hair issue, the Prince went straight away to Dr. Caliber. After he had run through series of medical examinations, ranging from X-Rays to fluid samples, to an in-depth physical exam; no test was left out to make sure there were not any lingering abnormalities leftover from his transformation into a pony of shadows.  

"How many more of these tests are needed, Doctor? I told you, the founders and I explored the extent of Blood Moon's powers using Discord's tricks with bending time and space. Other than the fur nothing else happened; there should be nothing to fear." 

"Please bear with me just a little bit longer your highness. After all, you are the first pony in recorded history who managed to become a pony of shadow and retain full mental control in the process, a feat, not even your aunt managed to achieve. It would be wise to be sure there weren't any adverse side effects in doing so." 

"Come on. My dusk form is nothing that impressive! I think the only reason I kept myself in control is because my full power in that form is just about a tenth of what my aunt was capable of doing." 

"Really?" Caliber asked disbelievingly, honestly impressed as Blueblood nodded in confirmation. 

"Blood Moon might be A nightmare, but my aunt Luna is THE nightmare." 

"...Regardless, it's better to be safe than sorry. Answer me this, your highness. Which one of the founders, or Discord for that matter, has a Ph.D. in modern medicine?" the Doctor queried with a raised eyebrow. 

"…None," the Prince responded, looking down. 

"That is what I thought. Don't worry, this is the final one, and I just want to see your throat, now if you please..." He lifted his instrument as the Prince only sighed in defeat and complied. 

The Doctor's eyes widened, and he started once he got a good look into the Prince's mouth, confusing Blueblood. "Is there a problem?" 

"Keep your mouth open please," Caliber answered tersely before proceeding with the examination, playing close attention to his teeth for some reason until the Doctor finished and backed away.

"Are you a part-time dentist as well, Doctor?" the Prince half-joked until he saw Caliber furiously writing something down on the Prince's charts. 

"Seriously Doc, what is the matter? Did you find anything bad?" 

"Before I answer, I have one last question for you," Caliber then went to his desk and returned with a big red candy rock been carried on one of his wings. "Could you do me the favor of lightly biting down on this candy?"

"Why?" 

"Trust me, it will be easier to explain this way, and it will test a theory of mine." 

Blueblood shrugged and decided to comply, lightly biting the candy until it shattered and broke with ease. Just as the Prince suspected, it was strawberry flavor, and he couldn't detect any hit of medicine in it. It was nothing more than a particularly tasty and sweet treat, so he decided to close his eyes to enjoy the sweet as he took another bite, completely missing the dumbfounded expression that Caliber was making at the actions taken. 

"A bit fragile but delicious! Can I have another one for the road after were done?" He asked, looking back at the Doctor, who was looking for something back in the desk. "Dr. Caliber?" The Prince inquired, getting confused by how the pony was acting.

"Hmmm? Oh sure, no problem, ah! Here it is" Caliber muttered mostly to himself as he pulls out an X-Ray of a dragon's mouth. "Yep, just as I suspected." 

"What is it, doc?" 

"Your highness, I will be honest with you." He put the X-Ray on his charts and approached the Prince. "After looking at your results and comparing them with your last check-up, I have a fairly comprehensive catalog of all the changes your body underwent from the transformation and yes…there were more to it than just your fur." the Doctor held up a hoof, stopping Blueblood before he could voice his opinion. 

"Like what?" the Prince inquired, confused. 

"Well... the majority of them are nothing to worry about, for the most part. You had a growth spurt of two inches, your muscle mass has radically increased, your horn is three-point-four inches longer, and your magic mana count has tripled, so other than the horn elongation, nothing seems out of the ordinary for a healthy adult stallion who performed some extensive exercise for a long period." 

"See? I told…" 

"…however," Caliber continued interrupting the Prince. "There one additional change that your body seems to have retained from your 'dusk form' as you call it." He placed two films on a frame and turned on the lights so they can both see the X-Rays 

"Prince Blueblood I'm not exactly sure how to say this but…you now have four prominent fangs in your mouth. Very similar to the ones a dragon should have," Caliber explained using a pen as a pointer to indicate the Prince's new teeth and the teeth of the dragon X-ray beside the princes own. Blueblood could indeed see that both had four prominent incisors in the same places. "Additionally, though this is too early to tell if it's permanent or not, it appears that you have acquired the necessary attributes to have an omnivorous diet." the Doctor informed giving him the X-Ray so he can have a closer look. 

"Wait, the fangs stayed there?" Blueblood questioned in surprise, admiring the X-Ray before looking at himself in a nearby mirror, which confirmed that in fact, four frontal fangs stand up from the rest of his teeth. "O…k, that's one change I didn't expect to keep," he muttered in surprise before licking them for good measure and then chuckled lightly. "You know, I saw the images, and I read the story, but I swear for the life of me. I still don't understand why Nightmare Moon had them in the first place," he confessed, looking at Caliber. "Perhaps they didn't serve any purpose, and were just an esthetic curiosity?"  

"Sir, didn't you hear me? Your digestive system may have a permanent alteration as well; you could have developed some new allergies along the way. Maybe soon you will need to sustain your body with a new diet, like rocks, steel or I even dread to say…" he gulped in fear "…meat." 

"Kind of an overdramatic conclusion don't you think, Doctor? I mean, why would you think that just because I have fangs, I can even bite something like a rock?" he said with a chuckle as he takes another bite from the candy. 

"Because you just ate a ruby, sir," the Doctor stated in a matter of fact tone, making Blueblood spit out his treat. 

"I what!?" He takes a close look at the candy, and sure enough, he started noticing that it seemed particularly hard to break in his grasp and when gridding it on the metal examination table, a screeching sound could be heard. It also left a clear line behind on the metal while the now identified gem remained unfazed. 

"Why did you think I asked you to bite lightly?" Caliber remarked while crossing his hooves. "'A bit fragile but delicious' those were your exact words, am I wrong?" 

"Doc, you took a very high risk with that bet? I mean what would have happened if I couldn't bite it off?" 

"I was confident that you would stop yourself before hurting any teeth." Caliber answered without missing a beat. "And at this point, I don't think it matters all that much. For now, let's focus on what we discovered and what needs to be done from now on," he explained while writing something down at his desk. 

"So, you want me to try to eat other kinds of food?" 

"Only in the case of that within the next couple of weeks you begin to feel lethargic or unusually hungry," Caliber answered. "Until then, it will be better if we had a period of observation to determine if you still can survive with only a herbivorous diet and if those teeth are permanent or not." 

"Sounds good to me." The Prince responded with a nod. 

"Good, in that case, I believe this would be all for today sir, please have a nice day." 

"You too doc, oh right! Can I have a copy of my…" 

"Way ahead of you, sir." Caliber gave him a copy of his medical report and smirked at him. "I had the distinct impression that Princess Luna would like to take a look at the results." 

"Nice guess." The Prince chuckled as he took the folder. 

"Never underestimate the intuition of the stallion in charge of performing regular check-ups on royalty, sir." Caliber boasted as he sent the Prince off while lightly chuckling at the comment. The Prince went straight to his aunt's room. 

Said trip didn't take long though since, on his way, Princess Luna appeared from thin air while the Prince traversed the hallway. 

"Nephew." Startled, Blueblood had to take a step back to recover from the surprise while the princess looked at him with a solemn expression. "Can we have a word?" She then raised an eyebrow in mild surprise when seeing him clearly, "Did you cut your mane even shorter?" 

The Prince chuckled lightly as he passed one of his hooves through his now mildly-short and spiked hair. "Yeah, the long hair wasn't exactly my style, and I thought maybe since I was getting a haircut anyway why not try a new look, do you like it?" 

"It reminds me of a shorter version of Rainbow Dash's mane style," she says with a nod, "I say that it suits you; it helps accentuate your male attributes," she responded with an approving nod.

"Thanks, oh! Also here you go aunt Luna, just as I promised," Blueblood told her, recovering from the surprise and levitating the report towards Luna before she took it with one of her wings and glanced through it. Sighing in relief and returning her attention to her nephew. "Thank you, nephew, with this, I can rest easier knowing that you only need to add gems into your diet from now on," she informed him with a smile, and then turned around. 

"What? No! Just because I have fangs doesn't mean that I will start eating…" 

"…Now please follow me, there is something I would like to show you." Luna interrupted him before he could finish his sentence. 

"Am I in trouble?" The Prince asked in worry by how she remained so neutral as he followed along. His answer soon came when the princess merely shook her head and looked back at him.

"Nothing of the sort. Rather, I just wanted to speak with you about what happened with Jet Set and Upper Crust. Or rather why it happened in the first place," she told him with a solemn expression. 

"There is no mystery their, auntie. They were just jealous and wanted my title. That is all." Blueblood stated, catching up to her, but to his surprise, she shook her head once more. 

"If only things would have been that simple. Tell me something, nephew, has Commander Hurricane, or even my sister ever told you why Equestria had fought its fair share of wars in the past?" 

"Well, not really. Aunt Celestia mentioned it briefly while we were training. The founders did tell me how some groups of ponies voiced their…discontent about the idea of allying with the other tribes, but that was all, what does that have to do with what happened?" 

"Patience, nephew, I will explain it very soon," Luna answered as Blueblood took notice of how she was guiding them into what looked to be a big dome room full of mosaics, and stained glass windows placed against the walls. All of them told a massive story, one that appeared to involve not only the three races of ponies but also other species, and all of them engaged in combat in one way or another. Finally, they stopped when they reached one showing both his aunts lifting the sun and moon on the center and the founders sitting on thrones on top of them and a rural town on the bottom.

"Just as they both told you, yes, Equestria had suffered numerous battles, and yes, you could say that the first one was orchestrated by unhappy citizens wanting the status quo to remain as it was. But although important, I wouldn't call those incidents wars, or at least not on the global scale." 

"Equestria has fought in world wars?" Blueblood whispered in shock with the revelation as Luna sighed. "Although their claims may have varied, it always came down to the same song and dance, revolving around one subject; power, disguised with different justifications. Territory, pride, resources, fear, there is even a tale about a war that started because two kings wanted the same mare as their bride." Luna recapped before looking at the mosaic. "Such is the influence that power can have on you and those around you." 

Luna explained as she looked at her image. "This window represents the first war that my sister and I were dragged into," she confessed, "as well as the day we obtained our cutie marks." 

"Wait. What?!" Blueblood stared at her in shock. "You cutie marks launched a full-scale global war?" 

"Please try to understand it from their point of view, nephew. You are a powerful ruler. Confident that no one would have the resources or power capable of challenging you. Suddenly, two fillies appear out of nowhere with the ability to move and control celestial bodies which previously required the effort of ten skilled unicorns to achieve, leaving them utterly exhausted afterward." She pointed at another window showing kings and queens of all sorts of species; diamond dogs, griffins, minotaurs, even what appeared to be golems made of gems. All of them wore a surprised expression as two filly versions of Celestia and Luna raising their respective celestial bodies. " when you see that happen, you can't help but start to think 'what is stopping those fillies from toppling your empire? What if they find a way to weaponize the sun, what chance do you have then?'" 

She then pointed at another window showing the kings in shadows around the fillies who had taken a defensive posture, "And then your pride is hurt with the fear of knowing that two fillies of six and eight years old were what defeated or killed you. So you desperately search for a way to stop them before they became a real threat. And thus, conflicts emerge." 

"But…wait that. You are telling me that the kings and queens of the past started a war just because they were scared of children?" 

"Children learning how to control the night and day, nephew, do not forget that. And with the idea of beings capable of so much, can you truly blame them from being wary? Back then, Equestria was still a young kingdom, inexperienced and naive, but growing in size. Some historians attribute the arrival of Discord to the chaos that caused said war," Luna says in shame. "Yet another sin for us to bear." 

"Aunt Luna, stop," Blueblood glares at her. "I get it, they were scared, but what happened wasn't your fault either, it was simply a problem that kept escalating ." 

"And that is the reason of this lesson nephew," Luna told him with a nod, confusing the Prince. 

"Huh?" 

"Power can be a double-edged sword, capable of not only ignite the flames of war…" She passed him the morning newspaper, and he looked down at it with surprise. the title and a full-page picture of Blood Moon on the front page, "…but it also prevents them from continuing or from conflicts ever happening in the first place." 

"'The Night Prince, and the Terror Knights?'" Blueblood read the title out loud in surprise by the unusual phrasing. "Weird title, it makes it sound like I just started a rock band."

"Such is the way of the media, I'm afraid," Luna agreed with a roll of her eyes. "You should be thankful nephew. There were some rather denigrating titles that Celestia and I had suffered over the centuries. There was a time they call us the destroyers of pies." She tells in reminiscing on the said event. 

"Really?" He looked back to her, but Luna shook her head. 

"A story for another time, for now, let us go back to the subject at hoof," she continued, showing the final image of her and Celestia defeating the attackers alongside the founders. "Our first real war served as a reminder of our true power and what it represented to others. It was a bittersweet lesson that taught us to be alert, careful, and most importantly, to never underestimate our enemies." 

She looked back to the Prince. "Nephew, in the past, you were weak. Other than your sharp wit and expertise with manipulation. You weren't much of a threat to our enemies; in fact, I dare say that most of them saw you as nothing more than a puppet that was occasionally difficult to control. Though now that your strings are cut and your true potential has been revealed. Our enemies soon would take notice, and battles, of not only power but also wits, will come your way very soon," she informed him gravely. 

"And that is why, to also prevent future events like what happened with that Jet Set and Upper Crust, I would insist that you take private lessons in the art of character judgment and body language analysis with myself as your teacher." 

"You…want me to learn how to judge a per…a pony?" The Prince asked, perplexed by her offer as Luna nodded. 

"The decision, of course, is ultimately yours, but I assure you that it will be a great asset if you take it. My sister is good at judging others, and like me, could understand the body language, but of the two of us, she is too trusting, too hopeful, and unfortunately incapable of seeing reality for what it is, giving a pony a chance despite whether his or her intentions could be malicious or not. It has led to her to numerous mistakes and errors in the past," she spoke softly with pity. "I, on the other hoof, had no difficulty seeing those warnings and taking the precautions needed." 

"Aunt Luna I don't know...learn to judge? Sure I'm familiar with that the subject…to an extent from my previous life, but what you are saying it's like an even bigger version of that and…it feels wrong. I don't know if I want to judge others all the time." 

She sighs in disappointment and looks down. "I understand, a lesson of that nature can indeed be seen as shady," she looks at him with a happy expression. "It appears your good-natured heart is shining once more, a kind thought, but one that also leaves you vulnerable. At the very least, promise me that you will keep your guard up when meeting new ponies and will try to keep a cool head in tense situations." 

"I will, Aunty, I promise." 

She smiles in satisfaction and nods once. "My offer still stands if you change your mind, think about it carefully, and when you are sure of your decision, to come to see me. My door is always…well maybe not always open, but from the afternoon onwards I will be available for you if you need any advice." 

"Thanks, Aunt Luna, I will remember it." 

The princess was about to leave when she noticed her nephew still looking at the windows. "Nephew? Are you coming?" 

"Just give me a minute auntie, I want to see the rest of the story first," he responded as he admired each portrait, making his aunt smile. "You know, if you like, I could narrate the events that transpired." 

"Really?" He looks at her in surprise and happiness as she nodded. 

"War is not something to be brushed off as an epic adventure or a tale of heroes and villains…but it can be a good story that can serve as a lesson for future generations to learn," she told as she sat next to him. "So tell me, nephew, what do you wish to learn first?" 

"Well, for starters, how did the other rulers learn about you two?" 

"Oh, that is an excellent place to start. Let me see... a bit longer than a thousand years ago…" 



Later that day at the train station. 



"Are you sure you wouldn't rather take the chariot? It would be faster," Blueblood offered as he accompanied Pinkie and Fluttershy as they were departing back to Ponyville with Fluttershy shaking her head in response. "It's ok, Ponyville is not that far from Canterlot, and we wouldn't want to bother you." 

"Yeah, plus the chariot doesn't have a candy cart passing by!" Pinkie added in before licking her lips in anticipation. 

"Huh, yeah I get it now, can't blame you from taking the train." The Prince nodded with a chuckle.

"Are you sure you will be ok?" Fluttershy asked him, worry evident in her voice.

The Prince merely shook his head. "I'm ok Fluttershy really," he said before looking back at Canterlot. "Although Canterlot will never be the same ever again, and there is still a lot of cleaning up left to do. I now know what I can do to help my family," he said, then looked back at them. "it's time that I started earning my title as the Prince, to the citizens, and the kingdom," he confidently told them. 

"You already earned the title silly, remember? Just after you defeated those two meanies!" Pinkie giggled. 

"Last call to Ponyville!" The conductor yelled as the train whistle indicated that it is about to leave the station. 

"Well I suppose this is goodbye then, don't be strangers, ok? You are welcome to visit the castle anytime." 

"Aw you too, come visit us more often. We can have more parties!" Pinkie replied, hugging him. Once hers ended, he went and tried to embrace Fluttershy, but things got a bit awkward as they could not seem to approach one another, ultimately settling for a hoof shake. "Take care Fluttershy, say hi to your animals from my part." 

"I'll will Blueblood. Bye!" She quickly replied before the two mares boarded the train. Pinkie looking at Fluttershy confused. 

"What was that about?" 

"Nothing! Nothing at all! Let's go Pinkie before they ran out of candy!" Fluttershy quickly departed as Pinkie yelped and rushed inside after her, while the Prince watched the train leave the station. 

Huh, ok…that was weird, why was it so hard to hug Fluttershy? He pondered for several minutes. Could it be because of what happened in the garden with the…? His eyes widened before he shook his head, trying to clear his mind. Nah, it can't be that, she is a pony, she is a pony, get your head together Blueblood! It can't be that. He convinced himself with a chuckle as he left the station.
> The Concerns Of Friends (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Will that be all dear?" the mare in charge of the candy cart asked nervously as Pinkie hoofed over a big bag full of bits after basically buying up half of her inventory.

Pinkie pondered for a while before nodding. "Yep I think we are good for now, but don't go too far!" She said half-jokingly before closing the door of her cabin. The cart mare only sighed and started walking away.

Now I understand why we got that weird letter from Princess Celestia asking us to load double the food we usually put on the train. I thought she was joking! She lamented Well, at least my sister did it anyway. Let's hope that mare doesn't ask us for more. She gulped before resuming her work.

Meanwhile, Pinkie started to eat a cookie while Fluttershy kept looking out the window at Canterlot.

"Still sad that you had to leave the royal garden?" Pinkie inquired, snapping the pegasus back to reality.

"Hm? Oh! Y-yes, yes, that's it. I'm gonna miss all those animals, and I had so much fun with them now that they are no longer scared of me," she answered with a shy smile remembering the night with fondness.

"Ah, don't worry, I'm sure Blueblood will let you play with them next time we come to visit," Pinkie responded with a dismissive wave of her hoof. "Besides, they can always come to visit you in the sanctuary if they miss you, right?"

"I suppose so," Fluttershy responded, still feeling pretty down. Pinkie looked at her friend with concern before she got an idea.

"Oh! I know, what do you say if we play true questions to pass the time? That would take your mind off things!" she offered with a smile.

"Well...I suppose I could try. how do we play it?" Fluttershy asked, thinking about the idea.

"Oh it's easy, I ask you two options, and you need to pick one, no thinking about it. Just say your answer without thinking right away, like this: Cookies or muffins?"

"Well, I don't…"

"No thinking!" Pinkie interrupts her. "Ok once again, gummy bears or choco chips?"

"Choco chips," Fluttershy answered right away this time.

"There you go, now you getting it. Ok, here we go, snakes or frogs?"

"Snakes."

"Beach or Mountain?"

"Beach."

"Carrot or Apple?"

"Apple."

"Why couldn't you hug Bluey?"

"Because I kissed him," Fluttershy answered, before thinking as her eyes widened in surprise, followed by Pinkie.

"You kissed him!?"

"Shhhh!" Fluttershy covered her mouth with a huge blush on her face. "Please don't so loud! I-It was an accident I…I at least I think it was," she confessed, not so sure about her answer. "You tricked me," she muttered under her breath.

"But…but what about Discord? Didn't you two, were…?" She asks in complete shock.

"What? A couple?" Fluttershy looked at her in surprise. "No!…well maybe? We were and weren't at the same time, I…think? It was the weirdest experience of my life. Anyway, it's something personal."

"Please, Fluttershy, tell me. What happened? I promise I will not tell anyone. Besides, you'll feel better talking about what's troubling you."

"No, Pinkie."

"Come on, please, please, please! I swear no one will know! Besides, it's never as good to keep things that are troubling you a secret right? Don't you want to share a tiny bit at least?"

Fluttershy kept quiet but listened to what her friend was saying and started to think.

"I know I always feel better after talking about something that is bothering me. You know you can trust me, so, please. Just a tiny bit? Just a bit. It will be our secret!" Pinkie coaxed her to open up a bit more until Fluttershy sighed in defeat and looked down.

"Alright, I suppose you're right, and it will be nice to tell somepony about what happened." She nodded with a smile, and she ultimately decided to trust her friend.

"Yay!"

"But it's a secret, ok Pinkie? You must Pinkie Promise me you will not tell anyone, not even gummy!" Fluttershy warned.

"Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake on my eye," she made the gestures before Fluttershy stopped her from performing the last part, "You don't need to stick it, Pinkie."

"Ok," Pinkie smiled and ate said cupcake . "So, what happened?" She asked with a mouth full of baked goods.

Fluttershy sighed and looked off into the distance. "It wasn't like we didn't think about the idea, I mean, it makes a bit of sense that Discord would develop something for me as I was his only friend at the time, as sad as that might sound. And well..." she blushed a little and played with her mane. "I don't have a lot of stallion friends for me to hang out when I'm not with you, that is, so things happened."

"Oh Fluttershy, you go, girl!" Pinkie encouraged her with a hoof in the air, making her more embarrassed.

"Please don't make it awkward!"

"Ah please, Flutters, you courted a spirit of chaos! How awesome is that?"

"Not very, actually," she said in shame bringing Pinkie's hoof down, confusing her.

"Ah?"

"Do you remember how Discord often makes a copy of himself to talk to, and if he doesn't do chaotic things he vanishes?"

"Yeah?"

"Well, not of all his copies are him, or even male and a relationship with one pony can potentially have the same effect on Discord," she confesses before sighing. "Even in a herd, having a relationship is meant to have a constant in your life, your special some pony or ponies. The name itself is a give away of why he couldn't be with me, 'stable' relationship."

"Oh no," Pinkie feared for what was coming.

"Being unpredictable is what Discord is. If he tried to be a nice colt friend he will start to vanish. If he acted like he normally does, well, our relationship will go nowhere and will spiral endlessly without control. That was always where things were doomed to lead, and worse Discord was fearing that I was slowly losing my mind by trying to make it work…and he was right. Just a couple of weeks trying to find a rhythm to our situation was proving to be stressful mentally and emotionally. As redundant as this might sound, the best description for Discord on a relationship would be 'chaotic', he has both of every type of relationship, known and unknown to pony kind and has not at the same time, using his copies as…y-you can get an idea," she confessed with a blush while looking away.

"Y-Yeah, n-no need to get into details with that one," Pinkie remarked not wanting to hear the details of that either and having a blush of her own. "A-Anyway in the end, what did you decide?"

"It was hard to admit, but ultimately we both decided to end…whatever you would call what we had and stayed friends, and hoped for the best. Discord was even thankful that I helped him experience something new and beautiful, and he promised to be my 'wingman' if I ever needed his help in the future. He even introduced me to copy Fluttershy."

"Copy Fluttershy?"

"As I said, not all his copies are of him; she is funny, and I honestly felt flattered that he wanted to keep me around even if she was and wasn't real, and yes, I know. I try not to think too hard about it either," Fluttershy answered, looking at how confused Pinkie was with a chuckle.

"Ah, that's adorable!" she commented once she recovered, "and it's great, that means that he will not have any problem with you dating Bluey."

"D-Date?! No! I couldn't Pinkie I…I don't know if I'm ready to try again, and is not like I have feelings for him or anything. Nope, we are just ponies that know each other" She stammered out, trying but failing to convince Pinkie, The small hint of red on her cheeks giving her away. "Besides, he is not even the true Blueblood. He has the soul of a human inside of Blueblood's body and is learning about our customs and... oh by Celestia! I have a type..." She said, holding her head in realization.

"I say you should go for it Fluttershy. You two would be a perfect couple!"

"But I…I don't know if I even want to be an alpha either."

"Oh right, because he's also the prince..." Pinkie remembered that detail. "Well, you can figure that out later, and in the meantime, you two can still be friends, right?"

"Yeah, I wouldn't mind that," Fluttershy said with a smile. "Thank you Pinkie, you were right. It certainly helps to talk about this stuff," she thanked her before taking a cookie. "And remember, not a single pony knows about this, ok?"

"Not a single one!" Pinkie swore as the tension left the cabin, and both mares enjoyed the rest of the trip back to Ponyville, "So…what did your mom think when you told her about Discord?" She asked intrigued to learn, which in turn made Fluttershy chuckle.

"Sure, Pinkie, I will tell my compassionate mom about my dating life with the spirit of chaos." She replied sarcastically, "Hi mom, how are you doing? Have you meet my might or not be colt friend yet? He's Discord, the spirit of chaos and lord of misfortune that terrorized Equestria in the past…twice! Do you want to pass out now, or would you like to wait until you're near the couch?" She dramatized



At that time in Canterlot

"Greetings, King Raptor" Princess Celestia stood and gave her guest a formal bow as she saw him enter the meeting room.

"Thank you for receiving me, your highness," an elder griffin with the top half of an eagle and the bottom half of a lion said returning the gesture. A long and white goatee on the bottom of his jaw and some wrinkles on his face indicated the griffin's age. He was wearing a royal cape, and a silver talon held the pieces together with a golden crown on top of his head. "I'm glad to see you in good humor and willing to talk with old friends again, Celly." He replied, dropping the honorific and looking at her with a smirk as he took a seat, making Celestia's cheeks blush a little from the embarrassment.

"Yes, back then it wasn't exactly one of my proudest moments. The things I say, I swear Rapt I didn't mean to offend you in any way I just…"

"Celly please…" Raptor stopped her by lifting one of his claws "…if any race understands your actions it's us, believe me, I know. Compared to what a mother griffin would have said in your horseshoes, your actions were pretty tame." He put the talon down and looked at her with a smile. "So let's just put that behind us and move on."

"Thank you, Rapt."

"Don't mention it. I should be the one thanking you, or rather, thanking your nephew." He responded with a smile, which confused the princess.

"The Black feather gang that your nephew managed to defeat. They are a group of ruffians that have been terrorizing my kingdom for a while now. My best soldiers were on their trail when suddenly they appeared to have vanished without leaving a trace. Who was ever to know that all they did was to move their operations into your territory? They must have been a real pain in the flank to deal with, weren't they?"

"Indeed, and with the martial court putting in place, I was mostly unaware of their activities either until I read the full report. I suppose it is a good thing that my nephew put a stop to them, right?"

"Indeed." They shared a small laugh while a servant arrived and poured some tea for them to enjoy before giving a bow. Raptor took the cup and drank a little before sighing in contemplation. "There is the other reason for my visit, Celly."

"Hm?"

"As much as I enjoy catching up with an old friend, and drop the tedious honorific, I'm afraid I'm also here on business."

"I understand," Celestia replied in disappointment. "What might be the issue, King Raptor?"

"The second issue it a subject that I would postpone as much as possible so, I will start with the easiest of the problems. Of all the gangs your nephew busted, only one of them was of Equestrian in origin. I don't know who tipped them off, but various groups from other nations came to Manehattan to make it their home, so the chances are that very soon other rulers of their nations will arrive to take their respective trouble makers out of your hooves."

"I don't see the problem in doing so," Celestia replied with a raised eyebrow.

"The problem rests in the fact that all of the money your nephew stole from them, a big chunk belongs to our respective nations, and in some cases, there are even national treasures that need to be returned," he explained with a sigh. "Celestia I swear, in honor of our friendship and our alliance the last thing I wish to do is to steal your money, but my talons are tied, and I'm not sure the other rulers will as patient as I when asking for their treasure back."

"I understand Raptor, and I appreciate that you came to me personally to address this issue. Do not worry, though," she responded with a calm smile, "I'm sure this problem is nothing a good session of negotiations and compromises can't fix, after all…" She smirked at him and leaned forward ever so slightly "…feigning ignorance, about the whereabouts of your respective gangs, will take you so far. And you were the only one that sent me a message about the black feather gang BEFORE my nephew put a stop to their activities."

"Heh, clever and sharp as ever, I see you haven't lost your touch yet, Celly." Raptor chuckled with a pleasant smile as they shared another laugh. "I have been in the game the longest, and this isn't the first time dealing with situations like this."

"Yes…but it probably will be the first with the second issue." Raptor continued while turning his head away from her nervously.

"What do you mean?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Say, Tia, I must say this is a pretty good tea, by chance it imported? Tell me where did you get your hooves on it?" He asked, trying to change the subject.

"Raptor!" Celestia did not budge and pressed the issue even more. "We are not children pretending to be rulers, and we are both grown-ups here. Whatever you have to say, I can take it, so please have more faith in me."

He sighed in defeat and looked down. "You are not going to like it."

"All the more reason for me to hear it as soon as possible then."

"If you insist," he closed his eyes and then looked back at her after a moment. "So far, it is but a rumor, but at this point, I would be more than surprised if it stayed that way. With the arrest of all those gangs, It brought the attention of the rulers I mentioned, as well as who would put a stop to them… all the while stirring up the wrath of the gods in their hearts."

Celestia is surprised when hearing that. "Blue blood.

She uttered the name and Rapto nodded in agreement. "Celly in the name of our friendship and as a king, I must ask you, did you have something to with his sudden change of heart?"

"Of course not! I would never do that to my family," she responded, offended by the implication

"Then, what happened?" He asked, completely serious. "Not too many of us, if not every other ruler you encountered in the past, barely knew him. Maybe they didn't even know he existed in the first place. By the gods Celestia, I only met him twice, and on both occasions, all it took was one glance at my soldiers for him to tremble like a leaf and run away like a chicken who just stared down a fox. If you hadn't explained it to me, I honestly would have thought that he was your court jester. I'm sorry to tell you, but the truth is, for me, he was kind of like a poodle, no scratch that, a poodle can be vicious and dangerous. He was more akin to a chihuahua; small, easily frightened and not at all dangerous."

"I…can't really blame you for thinking that way, you aren't too far off," Celestia admitted in shame.

"And that is my point, when he was exiled, I didn't think you would get that mad over someone like him. But I never expected him to go into self-imposed exile as a puppy and then return a couple of months later as a freaking Hell Hound!" he confessed in complete shock. "With four heads in his jaws as a present to boot!"

"Believe me, Raptor, I would have shared in your shock too if I wasn't just happy to have him return to me that day," Celestia agreed with a smile before her expression turned somber. "And to put your mind at ease, there is no dark secret of his behavior. Some time ago, a …event happened to him, an assassination attempt on his life."

Raptor was left speechless as he looked at her with his full attention. "By the gods."

"The worst part…it succeeded, and for a brief moment, my dear nephew was gone until, by some miracle, his soul found its way back to him," she smiled again. "The event shook him to the very core and served as a wake-up call to change his ways. He decided never to be weak again and became a better version of himself, as well as pay for all his previous sins. In a way, you could say that he was born again, and this time he intended to be a stallion that deserved his title."

"So that's what happened..." Raptor nodded a couple of times. "I've heard stories of my soldiers going through something similar, and making them reflect on their lives, but none of them ever actually went to the other side and returned," he stood up and walked to a nearby window where he is surprised to see Blueblood practicing his paired swords on a wooden dummy. "One could only tremble in fear, just imagining what horrors he saw that made him became the pony he is today."

"I hope this helps clear things up and calms the other rulers who had the same question as you did, Raptor," Celestia finished, approaching the griffin as he nods.

"Half of the question at the very least," he then chuckled and shook his head. "A Hell Hound, I suppose I wasn't all that far off in describing him like that either."

"Yes, I suppose you weren't," Celestia shared in his laughter. "And I think I know what the other half of the question is then," she said solemnly.

"I'm sorry, my friend, but you know how the game is played. It always boils down to power, and opportunities for a stronger alliance," he sighed tiredly "With his new capabilities, an arranged marriage proposal will be unavoidable."

"I understand," she nods once. "And you are right, it would have happened sooner or later, so it will be wise to be prepared for them. Thanks for warning me, Rapt."

"Anytime Celly…and you know, my grand-daughter is close to his age, and she is a very prominent fighter with a sharp mind and beauty worthy of serious of suitors, perhaps it wouldn't be so bad if she and your nephew…"

"Not going to happen." Celestia stopped him in his tracks with a calm smile.

"Eh, can't blame an old bird from trying," he shrugged with a chuckle. "Still, be on alert Celly, maybe I was the first, but I surely will not be the last, and chances are that the other rulers will not take rejection as gracefully as I do."

"They are free to try, Raptor," Celestia responded, "And I will happily teach them that no means no," she finished, maintaining her calm.

"Oh those poor souls, they don't know what are they messing with, do they?" Raptor shook his head with a final chuckle.

“No, they really don’t” Celestia answer with a chuckle of her own. 
 
> Change of Guards (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight kept holding her chest and breathing rapidly as Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie finished telling their story and how things got back to normal in Canterlot. "Ah…Twilight, are you ok?" Fluttershy asked concerned as Spike handed her a paper bag for her to breath, trying to calm down.

"Ok…Ok I think I'm ok now" Twilight said after a couple of minutes, "And I'm so happy that all this mess is finally over" Her ears pinned to her skull as she looked at Canterlot from one of her windows in the principal's office "I still can't believe that for 3 months, things in Canterlot was so bad, that the princesses wouldn't take my offers to assist. I was apprehensive about Blueblood."

"We all were Twily," Pinkie answer. "But, you know we can't just go and solve every problem that Equestria has, right? And besides, Fluttershy and I got it under control." She boasted in pride.

"You sure did Pinkie," Twilight looked at them with a smile, before glancing down at the newspaper. "S-So, are you telling me that Blueblood managed to create a NEW form of magic, and became a pony of shadows all by himself?" She inquired as she began to shake more and more. At first, Fluttershy thought that she was scared, but once she saw the smile on her friend. Fluttershy understood that Twilight was rather excited by the news. Perhaps a notch too excited.

"Aja, AND came back to Canterlot with the three founders of Equestria, and like a million new spells, Equestria has never seen before!" Pinkie continued, oblivious to how she was increasing her purple friend's emotional state.

"The three founders of…!?" Twilight stopped herself and took a deep breath before looking at them with a more relaxed expression. "Well, if you excuse me, girls, I need to go and see my cousin that I love very much," She said while packing quills and scrolls in a backpack, forgoing any semblance of subtlety.

"Twilight," Fluttershy approached her with a neutral expression. "Are you sure that would be prudent? What about your duties as principal?" She reminded her

"Oh, I imagine Starlight can cover for me for a couple of days. Besides, it's not like the school needs me here at the…"

Right on cue, Spike entered the room with a tower full of papers, "Twilight it an emergency!" He cried out in panic, " The latest shipment of ink we ordered from Quills and Sofas was accidentally swapped with invisible ink from the shop of Pranks and Gags. And all the students used that ink!" He explained as he put the papers on her desk.

"What! B…But then I will have…"

"I'm sorry, Twilight, but I'm afraid we will have to readminister that test," Spike informed her in disappointment.

"Can Starlight do it?" Twilight wheedle 

"Sorry, she can't either," Spike responded and gave her a postal letter. "She and Trixie are still in Appleloosa on a performance for the town's ponies, and she won't be back for another two weeks."

"But making all those copies of blank tests took me days!" She complained

"Twilight," Fluttershy sighed and approached her friend "Blueblood can wait, right now you have work to do here," She told her with a smile. "I'm sure he will be able to answer any question you have later."

"Yeah, plus, isn't that invisible ink too?" Pinkie pointed out, looking at an ink glass Twilight had intended to take to see Blueblood.

"It is? Oh pony feathers, does that mean the teacher staff also got these joke ink?" She sighed in exhaustion, "This is going to take even longer than I expected."

"Don't worry Twilight we'll help" Fluttershy offered with a smile

"Yeah! It will be like a sleepover, where we write a lot of questions!" Pinkie half-joked with enthusiasm, "Plus, it will be a great way to catch up on what we missed."

"Thank you, you two," Twilight nodded in appreciation for the offer of her friends.

"Well, since this is going to be a sleepover, I better get going and make some snacks," Spike said with excitement as he pulled a chef hat out of nowhere and placed it on his head. As he started to leave, he began scratching his left cheek

"Wait! Spike!" Pinkie stopped him and pointed at something on his face, "What is that?"

"What is what Pinkie?" Spike turned to see himself in a mirror only to discover a red scale on his face. "Looks like a red scale."

"Uy! Do you think Ember is calling you?" Pinkie suggested

"Nah, I don't think this is like the call of the dragon lord…ah, it's probably nothing, I shed scales all the time. This one will probably fall off by tomorrow morning," He answered with a shrug as he left the room.

The mares took glances at each other in slight worry as Spike left

"Yeah, definitely there are a lot of things you still need to do here before going to Canterlot Twilight" Pinkie mentioned

"Yeah, maybe there is," she agreed with a nod.

Meanwhile on the palace in Canterlot

"…and then finally you must always remember to kiss the left hoof in case the ambassador is female and grab ahold of the right one in case they are male because those exchanges are a form of…" The head butler finished writing the code of conduct when meeting ambassadors from Prance. Then looking back at the Prince only to find him slumped at his desk, staring at an empty notebook with only half of what he had just explained written down. A couple of days after the incident with Jet Set and Upper Crust had been sorted out, Princess Celestia appointed the head butler, Flicker, as Blueblood's instructor in etiquette and refinement when meeting and hosting ambassadors, diplomats and other rulers from various countries.

Naturally, the Prince was confused as to why his aunt had this sudden urge for him to learn about social manners and royal conduct as fast as he could, but her reasoning with him dismissing his lessons as a prince rather often and getting distracted on various occasions was solid. The founders helped prevent him from lagging too far behind, but unfortunately, Platinum's teachings were just too outdated, and some of the customs had been changed or altered, so a fresh and updated version was needed. Therefore, the head butler of the castle was the best option to teach him about the new forms of etiquette.

As tedious as it sounded, the Prince knew that it was necessary to have all of these lessons mastered eventually, and he gathered that she only wanted to get them over and done with. So Blueblood decided to trust her decision and put effort into becoming a better prince and finish them so he could return to his private magic lessons. Yet his mind kept wandering back to an incident that happened that morning, preventing him from giving his teacher the attention he deserved.

"PRINCE BLUEBLOOD!" Startled, the Prince jumped backward to see a very irritated Flicker staring back at him. "Did you hear anything I just said?"

"I'm so sorry, Flik…" the butler cleared his throat in irritation, "…I mean Profesor Flicker, it's not that your lessons are boring or anything, it's just, I suppose I have been a bit distracted lately," Blueblood said with a sigh as he looked down, oblivious of the butler rolling his eyes.

"Looks like appearances are not the only thing you decided to copy from princess Luna," the butler mumbled to himself in annoyance.

"What was that?" the Prince asked, not hearing him correctly, though the butler just dismissed his question. "Not important, and since this issue seems to be so large that you can't concentrate, perhaps it's pertinent we solve it before continuing our lessons. So what seems to be the problem, your highness?"

"I suppose it all started this morning after breakfast," the Prince started to tell the events in as much detail as he could...

"You're leaving!?" the Prince asked in shock as Amber and Stellar nodded solemnly while hoofing over the transfer papers that the Prince had given them some time ago.

"I'm so sorry, your highness. I know you wanted to put us back as your guard, and we appreciate your efforts on removing us from prison guard duty, but the assassination attempt on your life has put Stellar and I on edge, we fear that we will be unable to perform our jobs correctly until we fix the problem" Amber confessed honestly, "The killer not only avoided capture by our best trackers, but he also showed an unknown and dangerous power which, if not for the timely intervention of Princess Mi Amore, could have resulted in many casualties…most of them possibly by my hooves," she answered in shame, before looking back at him. "That is why we requested to be transferred to the Crystal Empire to receive proper training and teaching about this new 'emotional spectrum' magic and will later request permission to track this would-be assassin."

"Sounds fair, I'm coming too. It'll be easier to find him if you give him a tar…"

"Out of the question!" Amber stomped the floor angrily. "I'm sorry, your highness, but Tartarus will freeze before Stellar or I use you as bait. The kingdom and the princesses need you. You will be safer here in the castle."

"But what about you two?"

"This is what we are trained for, your highness. We are more than capable of dealing with this kind of danger. I assure you, the Celestial Centurions are not something to sneeze at," she proclaimed with pride.

"But…when I will be able to see you two again?"

"I'm afraid that it is hard to say. This opponent is cunning and must have as of yet unknown resources at his disposal if he managed to infiltrate the castle with such ease. Tracking him down will be a challenge in and of itself, but I assure you, we will catch him and bring him here to answer for his crimes."

"Isn't there anything I can say to change your mind?" the Prince pleaded, trying to think of something to say that can make them reconsider. Their resolve remained firm though, as they shook their heads.

"It a matter of honor, your highness. This assassin made a mockery of our duty as royal guards and forced us to hurt innocent ponies while making his escape. We will not be able to find peace until he's brought to justice."

"I…I understand, I... even though I could use my authority and order you to stay as my guards. I won't just force you to stay; it would not be fair, and I couldn't do that to my friends," he told them with a sad smile. "I can only wish you a safe trip and good fortune in your hunt."

"Thanks for understanding, your highness, we swear we will not let the crown down!" They proclaimed before giving him a courteous bow.

"Nothing you do will ever do that, best of luck to you two. I hope we will be able to see each other again soon enough."

The Prince concluded his story with a sigh as he started to flip a pencil in the air with his magic. "And after that, they packed their equipment, boarded the next train to the Crystal Empire, and were gone."

"Well, I must applaud your composure during that event, your highness. Listening to your staff's opinions and allowing them more freedom with their actions are certain qualities a kind and grateful ruler must practice," Flicker commented, "Yet I fail to see the issue in the matter? Why does their departure bother you so much?"

"It bothers me because I grew to like those two. Sure, they were  my assigned bodyguards, but more than that, they were my friends. Things will not be the same without them around."

"Ah, I get it now," Flicker nodded in understanding, "An excellent observation your highness."

"Observation?" Blueblood looked at him with a raised eyebrow

"I understand what your concerns are; you have yet to find suitable replacements to act as your new bodyguards."

"R-Replacements!? No, Mr. Flicker, that is not what I…"

"Please, sir, there is no need for modesty. There is nothing else to say," he went to his desk and gathered up a group of books, "I believed we could pause our lessons until you find two new female guards to serve you in their place."

"But I…"

"I have full faith that you can hoof pick the best candidates for the job, and taking on such responsibility will certainly please both of your aunts, your highness."

"But Mr. Flicker, I'm not…"

"I will inform princess Celestia about the news right away. I'm sure she will be more than pleased with your showing of maturity and dedication to follow the rules," he tells him a big smile as he marched out of the room, leaving the Prince alone and confused on what just happened.

"…looking for new guards," the Prince finished his sentence to an empty room before holding his head in annoyance.

Damn it, Flicker, you got it all wrong and made things worse!

He then sighed in defeat and nodded a couple of times, starting to leave and walk down the halls while deep in thought.

Buuuuut, he also had a point there. The rules say that I should have some guards with me, just like my aunts do, but Stellar and Amber…Hey, wait a minute, if I need new guards, does that mean…?

At that moment, Blueblood recalled the little condition his idiotic counterpart made a long time ago, before shaking his head rapidly.

No, not that! Bad enough was that Stellar and Amber had to admit that they were single publicly, now I have to keep asking the female guards which one of them is available to do their job?! Damn you, Flicker! Could you have made things more awkward?!

"Your highness?" The voice of Clean Breeze alerted the Prince, who looked over to see a confused maid carrying a basket full of towels staring back at him. "Are you ok? You stopped in the middle of the hallway and were shaking your head for a few minutes." her voice was full of confusion and a hint of worry.

"Sorry, Miss Breeze, Flicker just gave me a particularly hard assignment." He confessed to her, picking his words carefully, which in turn made the mare smirk and chuckle. "You are preaching to the choir, sir. I'm more than familiar with how demanding the head butler can be," she remarked with a roll of the eyes. "Let me guess? He told you something about how, as a prince, you need to act and carry yourself with dignity and elegance and need to practice how to walk or something like that?"

"Something like that, this morning my two bodyguards decided to leave the castle so they can track down the assassin that attempted to end me. When I told Flicker how I was going to miss them since we had become good friends, he suggested that I should pick new replacements."

"Yeah, that sounds like him, dedicated to this job before anything else. And what did you say in response, sir?" she asked, putting the basket down.

"Not much. He left saying that he was going to inform my aunts about me looking for new guards, which means things got more complicated."

"Ah, classic Flicker," she rolled her eyes in understanding, "So what will you do, your highness?"

"I suppose I should at least look around. I mean, it's still the law, and I don't know when Stellar and Amber will return, so maybe temporary replacements don't sound so bad."

"Normally, I'd say that having guards would be pointless considering what you did in Manehattan, but even the princesses have guards with them all the time, so I get your point." She then recalled something. "Now that I think about it…even Cadence had them too before one of them became her husband. Why does Princess Twilight not have at least one yet?"

"I suppose her friends are keeping that role somehow," Blueblood replied with a chuckle. "If we are going to be technical, Rainbow Dash could be considered one, and for them, things might be a bit different since they are the Elements and all that."

"Yeah, that is probably the reason," Breeze agreed with a smile.

"Well, back on track, that is my predicament, and I'm kind of embarrassed to go around asking for replacements."

"Oh, I'm sure it will be fine your highness, there are plenty of available guards in the barracks who would be happy to take the job, sir."

"If only things were that easy, there's that particular law about guards that says that the soldiers must be of the opposite gender of the ruler they are protecting."

"Oh? Oh! So that is why the princess's guards were all male. I thought Princess Celestia just wanted some eye candy," she mumbled the last part mostly to herself, "yeah, that could be more of a problem but still solvable, don't worry your highness there are still plenty of options…"

"It also states that they need to be…single at the time," he finished with a face complete red catching Breeze off guard. "Come again?"

"Don't ask! Let's say the princess made one small mistake, and now that little condition is part of the law, and they haven't had the opportunity to change it!"

"Oh, my," Breeze exclaimed with her cheeks heating up. "Wait! Does that mean that the guards watching for princess Celestia are available?!" She asked with a big smile on her face.

"Probably, I don't know. It has been a while, and no law says that they need to stop once they find a partner," he tells her with a sigh. "And well, now you see what the problem, not only will I have to ask well trained and armed mares if they can look after me, I will have to ask them if they are single or not," he sighed again and kept his head low. "Well, better get going, a lot of mares are going to slap me very soon so it might as well get that over with," Blueblood said in defeat as he started to walk away.

"Well, good luck, and don't worry, they probably will know about those conditions by…" Her eyes widen once she remembered something. "You highness wait!" Breeze rushed past and placed herself in front of him, "Before you go, do the guards need to be unicorns?"

"I suppose not, why?"

She thinks about something for a while before looking at him again. "I'm not saying that it will be guaranteed, but if you are not picky about what race they are, I might know of two mares that could fit the conditions," she suggests him with a smile

Soon after

Following the advice of Clean Breeze, Blueblood went straight into the top of the east tower of the castle, a place located on Princess Luna side of the building where, according to Breeze, any flying guard in Canterlot used to practice their aerial maneuvers without needing to worry about any civilians or weather patrols getting in the way of their training.

After taking a deep breath, the Prince stared at a big iron door in front of him before opening it with some difficulty using both his magic and his entire body. He was assaulted by a breeze of cold air the second he stepped inside the rooftop where dozens of pegasi with bat wings, slit yellow eyes and slightly larger ears were currently practicing defensive, and offensive air maneuvers in what the Prince could only assume was the inside of a giant storm cloud they placed on top of the tower to train. Alongside them were regular pegasi doing the same, yet all of the Prince's attention was falling into those unusual bat ponies Clean Breeze had described to him not too long ago.

Holy Belmont whip! It true! Bat ponies DO exist!

The Prince thought in shock as he took a couple of steps forward to admire these new creatures closely until he felt something hit his chest, preventing him from going any further.

"Careful, your highness." Looking down, he saw a baton pressing against him, and following to its origin; he saw a tall bat pony with light blue fur and green mane and tail with a bald spot on his forehead and milky left eye. The wrinkles in his face and body were a dead give away of his advanced age, yet he seemed to be in excellent physical condition. The vest he wore was covered in various medals gave Blueblood the idea of him being a veteran. "Even if you are a prince, we are STILL in the middle of our training routine, and you wouldn't want to get too close to those thunder clouds, sir." He used his baton to point to one of the smaller clouds currently been used to shoot at the cadets in their sessions. "I speak from experience, those nasty bitches can hurt like the dickens," he half-joked, widening his milky eye so the Prince could have an idea of how dangerous they can be.

"Oh gosh, just imagining it is enough to cringe," the Prince shivered at the idea and took a step backward. "Thanks for the warning, and sorry, didn't mean to get in the way of your practice."

"Ah, we were about to wrap it up anyway, sir," the stallion said with a dismissive hoof, "So, may I ask why did you honor us with your presence, your highness?" the stallion asked with a raised eyebrow before one of his ears twitched. "Wait! Hold that thought for a second," he raised one hoof before suddenly turning his attention back to the recruits.

"TWISTER, IF YOU DON'T GET THAT SORRY FLANK OF YOURS MOVING, I'LL PERSONALLY THROW YOU INTO THE SPIN SIMULATOR AND LEAVE YOU THERE FOR THE REST OF THE DAY!" He yells at the top of his lungs. Scaring the cadet that was lagging on the running course as he flew as fast as he could to catch up to the rest of the pack.

Being impressed by how this stallion had a voice that commanding was an understatement for the Prince as he could only blink while the veteran returned his attention to the royal, changing his demeanor back to normal. "Sorry about that, recruits, am I right? If you don't yank their tails, they will start prancing around in the field," he complained with a small chuckle, "So anyway, where were we?"

"Well, the thing is, I came here because I was kind of wondering…"

"…, isn't it obvious Sergeant? He is checking the candidates," a female voice interrupted him, and when looking back, Blueblood saw two bat pony twins with the same light pink fur. A blue and purple royal barding covered them with what appeared to be a medallion in the shape of a blue reptilian eye on the breastplate as they approached. The only distinguishing characteristic between the two the Prince was managing to find was that the mare that interrupted him had green slit eyes, a matching color mohawk hairstyle, and tail while her companion's eyes and hair color were light blues. "Word spreads fast in the castle, 'especially among royal guards," the mare with blue eyes explained with a smirk, "And the latest news is that the prince of Equestria is on the lookout for new blood to serve as his bodyguards."

"So good that you finally came to your senses and decided to come looking for the very best your highness," The mare with green eyes says with a raised eyebrow and a knowing smirk. "Ever since Blood Moon, my sister and I have been just ITCHING to get to know this new and improved Prince of Equestria," her voice had a hint of excitement. "So what do you say, sir? You tried the rest, are you ready to try the best?”
> Honor And Chances (RB And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Cadets! That is no way to address royalty! On the ground and give me fifty wing push-ups!" the Sergeant quickly reproached the twin bat ponies as they just kept staring at the prince with the same smirk on their faces. They didn't even seem to hear their superior until they dropped to the floor and started performing the assigned exercise using their wings, a feat that caught the prince off guard. 

Can their wings support all of their body weight?

"My deepest of apologies, your highness," The Sergeant soon lowered his head in front of Blueblood. "These two cadets are our most recent recruits on the royal guard. Even though their aptitude and acuity scores were the highest that we have seen in years, their manners when addressing their superiors are still a work in progress." The Sergeant explained, slowly turning his head to glare at the cadets who kept doing their push-ups at a breakneck pace, not showing any signs of fatigue. Blueblood swore that the one with green eyes was half asleep as she continued working out. 

"It …it's OK. I'm still learning about formalities and code of conduct too." Blueblood said, dismissing the incident. "So you don't need to be so formal with me all the time," he said with a smile. 

"And we appreciate the sentiment, your highness," the mare with blue eyes replied once she and her sister were done with their push-ups.

"You runts just focus on your exercises!" The Sergeant roared in anger, before looking at the prince, "so sorry, your highness."

"It…It OK, nothing wrong with letting your subordinates speak their minds as long as they respect the chain in command, right? Yes, you two are correct though, I might have phrased it a bit differently, but I am indeed on the lookout for some capable guards to stay close by to me. It's just a temporary job, but unfortunately, the ponies I'm seeking are required to fill certain…ahem! Conditions," he says with some heat forming on his cheeks. 

"Oh yeah, rule forty-seven, right? The one that stipulates the need for having some form of security by your side at all times, that need to be mares, in perfect health and…" 

"…Yeah! That is the one," Blueblood stopped the Sergeant, not wanting to hear the rest of the rule. "A friend of mine suggested me to come here to look for options. She even told me that she had some guards in mind already that could work,

"Well, your friend seems like a pretty smart pony you highness, all of my cadets are of the finest and more capable pegasi and thestrals Equestria has ever seen," 

Thestrals? The prince look at the Sergeant with a raised eyebrow. Is that the name of the race of the bat ponies?

"Lightning fast reflexes, eyes on the sky, and none of that spinning and rolling around in the clouds that those Wonderbolt clowns are so proud of," he said, pointing at various cadets before circling the air with his hoof, in an irritated manner. 

OK, I feel like I just walked into a minefield, better not talk much about it.

"No offense, your highness, I'm sure the unicorn squad is more than capable of serving as a royal guard. Their horns could be useful in restraining an attacker, but when it comes time to protect somepony, seconds can be the difference between life or death" He continued boasting with pride. 

"So what do you say we rally the troops, and then worry about which mares haven't been mount…" 

"THANK YOU, Sergeant!" Blueblood stopped him before he could finish that crude comment. "T-that will not be necessary. My friend already recommended me to two single mares, and if they accept, has indicated that they could be excellent bodyguards." 

The Sergeant laughed and patted his back. "Sir, you are looking for security, not a date, and unless they have another job, they will take the request." 

"Maybe, but since they will be following me around, I'd rather avoid future tension with them. If they enjoy their job, their performance will improve," Blueblood argued back. 

"Ha! Always looking to make everyone smile. Are you sure you are not the element of laughter, your highness?" he half-joked as he poked Blueblood's chest with his walking stick. "Anyway, which mares did your friends suggest? I will gather them immediately." 

"She told me that their names were Daga and Garra," Blueblood answered, making the sergeant pause as he slowly turned his head in the direction of the twins who he just dressed down, both having finished their push-ups and their ears flicked, signaling that they heard their names just now. "Are these them?" The prince asked. 

"Sir! Yes, sir!" They both stood at attention, alerting the prince. "And we accept sir, it will be our honor," the mare with blue mane added as they both bowed to Blueblood. 

"Oh! Well…thank you two, it will be just temporary, but let's try to get along," the prince smiled at the two mares before getting confused. "Ah, can I ask you which one is which?" 

"Wait!" the Sergeant called out to voice his opinion before looking at the prince. "Are you sure you are OK with the twins your highness?" he asked in worry, "As I said, they're still wet behind the ears. Of course, both are top of their class, and I see a lot of potential in them, but neither has had any field experience. Please reconsider, I'm sure I must have some veterans that have no partners or at the very least, are divorced or widows. That can serve much better." He offered diplomatically to the prince.

Blueblood weighed his options before answering, "Maybe, but I'm not exactly looking for permanent replacement either Sergeant, this is just a temporary position. Just think about it, this could be a good opportunity for them," Blueblood commented, "I don't exactly go rushing toward danger…OFTEN," he amended his statement after taking note of the neutral expression of the Sergeant. "And their job will not be something that big either, just following me around. What better way to get their hooves dirty, in a safe manner, than by giving them a try? Besides, with my lessons, chances are that I will be in the castle throughout the time of their service. So, there's not much danger to worry about, and by example, they can learn good manners from other guards as they protect me," Blueblood continued. "Plus they seem eager to try, why not give them at least one opportunity? And if they get too relaxed or cocky, I will do what I can to straighten them out." He offered with a smile.

"OK, if you really will be alright with a couple of rookies..." the Sergeant sighed before glaring at the twins. "Listen well you green fangs, this is probably the most important mission you will receive during your pathetic lives, so you better not embarrass the uniform. You two are now assigned to be the prince's protection detail, guarding the prince's life from now on until relieved, which means he doesn't even sneeze without you being there ready with a handkerchief. If anything happens to him on your watch I will personally impale your wings against a wall like bugs and leave you as examples to all rookies that act like smart ass's with me, DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?!" 

"SIR! YES, SIR!" They both saluted before approaching the prince and placing themselves on either side of him. 

"Good," the Sergeant nodded in approval "I will start on the transfer paperwork then, have a nice day, your highness," he turned around and addressed the other cadets. "ALRIGHT, ROOKIES! THAT IS ENOUGH, HIT THE SHOWERS!" he ordered before leaving. The prince heard a collection of sighs in relief and soon after seeing the most of the bat ponies and pegasi slowly making their way out of the tower. Eventually, leaving only him, his guards, and what the prince assumed were the veterans who only wanted to train some more. 

"Sir?" The mare with green mane asked Blueblood. 

"Yes?" 

"I just wanted to say that we have become big fans of yours since you flawlessly cleaned up Manehattan, and showing the true power of the night."

The prince chuckled at the compliment and scratched the back of his head "Oh it was nothing really, the citizens are the real heroes there. I wouldn't have even been there if not for their help."

"There is no need to be so modest your highness, you were spectacular back there, and I loved the way you transformed into a pony of shadows, do you think, perhaps you could show us…"

The other twin cleared her throat and silenced her sister before looking at the prince. "I'm sorry, your highness. Daga can get excited when meeting celebrities" She apologized with an embarrassed smile.

Celebrity? Me? The prince looked at them, confused. As Garra continued

"Do you mind if Daga and I freshen up as well before we start? We were also training not too long ago," the mare asked him while pulling her sister away. 

"Oh! Sure! Sure! Go ahead. I have to go see my aunt about the news anyway, come and meet me in the throne room once you are ready," the prince nodded.

"Thank you, your highness; we will not take long. Let's go, fangirl!" Garra chided her sister as they took their leave, Daga complaining all the way. 

"But…but, the prince! At least let me ask for an autograph!" 

Well, at least I think she and Pinkie might get along rather quickly.

Meanwhile on the train heading to the crystal empire

Amber sighed as she kept looking through the window as snow passed by. "The crystal Empire shouldn't be too far away now, any minute we will reach it." 

She said before looking at her friend, who nodded at the statement. "Have you ever been to this place?" 

Stellar shook her head no. 

"Yeah, me neither, I've heard stories of a crystal changing colors according to a pony's mood and the famous Crystal Heart having some degree of healing properties to whoever approaches it. It will be interesting to see how much of that is true, right?" She said, trying to cheer up on their silent ride. Stellar smiled, appreciating the gesture. 

"Hey! Is this a mission or a vacation trip?" the voice of Hurricane interrupted the two as they both saw her enter the cabin carrying a bag of junk food with her. Both mares were understandably impressed when they found Hurricane herself at the entrance of the train station, waiting for the two with her bags packed. After Amber told her that they were heading to the Crystal Empire, she didn't say a single word before boarding the train, essentially inviting herself on to their trip. "Don't you mares start to go soft on me now. I was under the impression this was a trip to get tougher, not go around playing tourist," Hurricane remarked, sitting next to Stellar and pulling a liquorish string from her bag using her wing before eating it. "So enough with the gloomy face and the attempts to lighten the mood, would you? If you are going to do something, do it right," she smiled at the two before tossing them a bag of cookies each. 

"Here, I will do the talking while you two fill your guts." 

"Thanks, Commander," Amber nodded before opening one of the bags before staring at her and then sighing. "Miss Hurricane…why did you come along?" she finally asked, incapable of keeping silent by her sudden, but not unwelcome intrusion. 

"Ugh! Finally! I have been waiting for hours for either of you to ask me that!" Hurricane exclaimed with a roll of her eyes and throwing her hooves in the air. "I was beginning to fear you two were just a couple of sheep." 

"Commander," Amber responded, hardening her gaze. 

"Hold your horses, I'm getting there," Hurricane replied before sighing. "I know how you are feeling, you know?" she said in sorrow as she looks at Amber. "The humiliation, the guilt, and the fear that you made a rookie mistake that almost cost some civilian's life. That assassin did a number on you, didn't he?" she inquired in an understanding tone. Catching Amber off guard. 

"How do you…?" 

"…Oh please," Hurricane interrupted her with a shake of her head, "You are talking with the mare that had once lead armies to victory from the frontlines. Do you seriously think I don't know when one of my soldiers had a vendetta on their minds? I can tell by just seeing their eyes, and yours couldn't be more transparent. Those are the eyes of a mare that will hunt a bastard to Tartarus if you need to." 

She then looked at Stellar. "And you're not the only one with that idea. You are good at keeping it to yourself, Mute, but you can't fool me. You are angry at him, too, right?" Hurricane said, and hardening her gaze, Stellar nodded. 

"Yeah, I can tell. There is a plan in that head of yours. There are things you wish to do once you get your hooves on that assassin. Things I won't dare to say," Hurricane confirmed as Stellar merely nodded slightly as her gaze hardened even more. 

"So, you came to a stop us then?" Amber questioned with a raised eyebrow. 

"Stop you? By the stars no. As I said, I understand and have seen it before, and I know there's no stopping you from this road you are taking," she replied. "I'm just tagging along." 

"Why?" Amber asks in confusion. 

"Because that road can get pretty dark and finding your way back from that can be a pain in the flank without a guide," Hurricane warned the two as the train came to a stop. "Know this, there will be a line soon enough, and once you cross it, …there is no turning back. I will try my hardest to prevent you two from doing that," she promised as the conductor announced their arrival, and Hurricane stood up

"Plus, I haven't seen the Empire in more than a thousand years, and I want to see what has changed since Penumbra ruled the place. I wonder how that kid of hers did as a king?" She asked in wonder. "What was his name again? Somber…Solace…Soloist? I know it started with an S" she tries to remember as she left the cabin, making Amber and Stellar's eyes widen with the revelation, the two shared a look

"Should…should we tell her?" Amber asked her friend, worryingly.

That night back in Canterlot

Garra and Daga vowed solemnly to both princesses as Celestia and Luna reviewed their credentials with a critical eye. Earlier that day, Blueblood told Celestia about the news and how he had found suitable, temporary replacements for Amber and Stellar. Though, Celestia remained silent on the decision and asked him to wait for Luna so they could both review the candidates carefully before agreeing to let the twins act as his bodyguards. So when the time came, and after Princess Luna finished raising the moon. The prince and his prospective guards arrive to see his aunts and hear their thoughts and opinions. 

"So, are your minds at ease now?" Blueblood finally spoke up, unable to take the tense silence any longer. "Their scores speak for themselves, and the Sergeant himself told me that they have a lot of potential. Perhaps enough to be considered for the Celestial Centurions. What else needs to be discussed? They are perfect for the job," Blueblood stated with a smile.

"Blueblood, it's not that we don't get your point. Their portfolios are impressive indeed, and I am proud of you wanted to take on this task, but it just…" Celestia tried to find the right words while looking at him with a hint of awkwardness. 

"…neither of them have any real-life experience yet," Luna finished, taking a step forward. "I'm sorry, Nephew, but we can't simply assign recruits to the protection of our family. It's just too risky, and your well being is too important to us, the job being temporary or not," she answered with finality before addressing the twins. "Miss Garra, Miss Daga, we appreciate your willingness to take up this position, but I'm afraid we will have to decline." 

"With all due respect, your highness," Garra took a step forward, "Don't you think that this decision seems a bit premature? My sister and I only wish to serve the crown; haven't we earned the right for a chance to prove ourselves worthy of protecting your nephew?" 

"This is not for discussion, Private Garra," Luna reproached with a glare. "Our answer is no." 

"And will that be OK with you, your highness?" Daga asked, looking at Blueblood. 

"Well…I," Blueblood started to say something, but Celestia cut him off and put her wing on his back. "We speak for him, and as my sister told you, our answer stands. Still, we appreciate your efforts, and we will gladly search for an appropriate assignment for you two." Celestia responded with a smile. 

"Excuse me?" Blueblood separated from Celestia and looked at her with some irritation, "You speak for me? What is that supposed to mean?" 

"Sweetie, please don't take it the wrong way, but this is an important task. We are just worried about your safety," Celestia responded. 

"But not interested in my opinion?" Blueblood pointed out, his anger was starting to rise. 

"Of course, we want your opinion," Celestia answered slowly. 

"Then why I can't speak for myself?" he started to back away and approached the twins. "And why can't they have the chance to serve as my bodyguards?" 

"Nephew, we just told you, they have no field experience. It takes more than good grades and an overachieving disposition." 

"…seems to have been enough for Twilight," he muttered in anger, which caught Celestia's attention. "What was that young man?" 

"You heard me!" He snapped back, "Was Twilight' experienced in the field' when you sent her to Ponyville? Was Aunt Luna 'experienced' when she entered her first dream? Were you on the first day as Princess?" he asked rhetorically. 

"Blueblood, this is entirely different." 

"How?" 

"Because I had a backup plan in case anything had happened," Celestia answered. 

"And you think I don't?" 

That surprised all the mares. 

"You do?" They all asked at the same time as he nodded. 

"I had a lot of time to think while I was in exile. There are a lot of things I wanted to do once I came back home," he put his right hoof on Celestia's chest. "Please Auntie, just like you gave me a chance, like you gave Twilight an opportunity, like how you managed to give Aunt Luna and Discord a chance to prove themselves, let me prove to you that I have this under control, please," he pleaded as Luna looked at both at him and Celestia with a wary gaze. 

After a long pause, Celestia eventually sighed and closed her eyes. "One chance," she relented, much to the surprise of Luna. 

"What?!" Luna took a breath to voice her displeasure when Celestia raised her hoof to stop her from doing so. 

"Two weeks, with only allowances to walk IN and NEAR the castle grounds where guards can see you at all times; a trial period to prove to me that they can be capable guards…and then they can keep the job as temporary bodyguards," she laid the conditions out with a neutral expression. 

"Thank you, aunt Celestia! You are the best!" Blueblood was about to hug her, but she glared at him, still displeased by how things went.

"ONE chance, Blueblood, just one. If they prove me right, you will be grounded for a month," she warned him. 

"What?! But that…" 

"Want it to be two?" 

…is a strong yet fair and kind deal, one which I am happy to accept with no further alterations being necessary." Blueblood gulped under his aunt's glare, but not as much as the twins once Celestia looked at them this time with a smile. "And I believe you two understand the importance of this assignment and conduct yourselves with all the professionalism and dedication the royal guard is known for, am I correct in this assumption?" 

"Yes, your highness!" They quickly replied with a salute, and Blueblood internally applauded their commitment on not stuttering or even sweating under the hard gaze of Celestia. "Good. In that case, I'm grateful for you looking after my nephew."

"Well…with everything now settled, I think we should be going, thanks again aunties, I love you!" Blueblood told them quickly and tried to leave the room as fast as he can without running, escaping the tension in the room. 

"Tia!" Luna glared at her sister. 

"Don't say it, Lulu, I know." 

"Then why did you agree to this?! Tia, we are talking about the safety of our nephew, will you be OK letting recruits looking after him?" 

"Of course not…but as much as I hate to admit it, Blueblood raised a good point. By not giving those mares a chance, I would have been a hypocrite. They have a great deal of potential, and saying no would have been mostly me being a paranoid and overprotective aunt," she then smiled as she looked at her sister. "As you said, we can't just keep protecting Blueblood. We should put more faith in his judgment of their character. And who knows? Maybe we are just worrying over nothing here." 

Luna sighed but also nodded. "I suppose you are right. Every pony deserves a chance to prove themselves, and I know that better than anyone. Besides," she smiled at the idea, "Having bat ponies guarding the crown could help boost their image in the eyes of the general public."

"Also true." Celestia nodded with a smile, and Luna did the same as they kept quiet for a while. 

"…you are still going to spy on them from time to time, aren't you?" 

"Like a hawk." 

"Yep, that is what I thought." They both shared a laugh between the two before departing to perform their duties for the night, neither of them aware that their peace soon would be broken, heralded by the arrival of an ornate silver chariot entering the borders of Equestria escorted by a platoon of humanoid cat soldiers.
> Tricks, Witz And Charms (RB And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It all started with the sound of a trumpet in the middle of the day court. Dreading the coming of this day, the warnings of King Raptor rang ominously in the back of Celestia's mind as, with a practiced smile and a well-hidden sigh, the Princess braced herself to receive her unexpected guests. As she gave the order to let them inside the throne room, she ran through the mental checklist that she had prepared beforehand for this type of unannounced arrival. Celestia made sure to keep her day court as lax and short as possible so as not to get too behind on her schedule. That decision was about to pay off as her guards opened the front door allowing a row of anthropomorphic feline guards marched inside alongside a herald who, once in front of her, took a step forward and made his proclamation. 

"Presenting His majesty! King Atticus the Fifth, ruler of Abyssinia and the heir to the Abyssinian throne, Prince Atticus the Sixth!" the herald finished and gave her a deep bow before taking a step back and allowing the rulers in question to approach the other. 

"Greetings, oh magnificent Princess of Equestria," King Atticus exclaimed with an exaggerated bow as he addressed Celestia. The King's son mirrored his father's movements, though his bow was more polite and hid his embarrassment of his father, making the Princess sigh internally. The king in question was a pure black-furred anthropomorphic lion, with a glistering and ample mane which sparkled against the light. If the princess didn't know better, she would have said that he just came out of the shower with how much it shined. On top of his head sat a golden crown with spikes adorned with glinting rubies. His wardrobe consisted of a red royal cape with edged with white and black spotted stoat fur running its entire edge, a long-sleeved red shirt with multiple gold buttons on it, three golden rings adorned his right hand. Each ring was set with brilliant emeralds. Finally, a single golden monocle rested on his right eye, attached to a delicate platinum chain connected to a ring in his right ear. Next to the king stood the Prince, a younger black lion whose mane had not grown in completely, yet it was long enough that it could easily be styled into a mohawk. Like his father, he had a long-sleeved shirt with golden buttons as well, the fabric differed from the kings by being blue, though no less luxurious. on his brow rested a modest silver crown while on his shoulder rested a pair of golden epaulets. 

Oh good, he still has a flair for the dramatic, this is going to be a long meeting. Prince Atticus, thank the stars you inherited your mother’s modesty. The princess mentally thanked her lucky stars before greeting her guest. 

"King Atticus, my dear friend, I'm so glad to see you in good health," Celestia greeted him with a smile before looking at his son. "And little Atticus! You have grown up into such a charming young prince. Each day you look more and more like your father."

"Thank you, your highness," Prince Atticus responded in a low tone, before approaching the princess and offering a single Peruvian lily with his left paw. "For you, milady." 

Celestia nodded in approval and took the flower with her hoof before taking a sniff. "A thousand thanks kind sir," She smiled while allowing the prince went back to his father. 

"Such skill with words and praises; you truly have the manners of a fair ruler, Dearest Celestia," the king remarked before extending his paw toward her. "May we have the leave to take a moment of your time? The events of the past months have reached even the ears of fair Abyssinia, and there is much to be discussed." 

"Of course, King Atticus, in fact, I was counting on your arrival," Celestia replied with a smile, catching the king by surprise. 

"You did?" 

"Indeed, another ruler recently approached me earlier and was kind enough to explain what concerns plague both you and others. So, I took the liberty of preparing all of the pertinent paperwork for the transfer of criminals back to Abyssinia. I also took the liberty of having a detailed inventory and ledger drawn up to account for exactly what and how much of your national fortune the respective criminal organizations took from you. That was, after all, the reason for your visit, am I right?" She asked with a concerned tone and a raised eyebrow. The King, in turn, paused for a moment to clear his throat. 

"Ahem, y-yes, that is exactly what I was looking forward to discussing, your skills and insight seem to be as sharp as ever, dear Celestia." 

"Thank you for your praise Atticus, Though I am still not going to simply return the money to you though. We will discuss terms and concessions as rational rulers." 

"But of course." 

"Oh and my nephew will not be joining us either, I'm afraid his schedule is full at the current moment." 

"What?! but…" 

A quick gaze into Celestia’s eye stopped the King complaining further, "…ah... I mean, that is quite a shame. I was personally looking forward to shaking the hoof of the stallion who single-handedly defeated one of the most persistent problems in my country. And I was hoping he and my son could meet, perhaps even share advice or tips on how to confront future problems with any new criminal masterminds." 

"It a real shame indeed, perhaps another time, however. For now, let us talk about the issues at hoof, this way, gentle cats," Celestia kindly responded as she guided the feline pair into a smaller, private room off from the main audience chamber. The confidence in Celestia’s step and posture prevented her from seeing the slight smirk that was forming on the king and prince’s features as they followed her along. 

Meanwhile in the royal garden

"Alright, your highness. For your next lesson, we will study the language of flowers and the proper etiquette when offering one to a fair maiden." Flicker explained pridefully as he, Blueblood, and the prince's new guards walked to the garden until they reached a flower bed who's petals were in full bloom. 

"Offering a flower? Really?" the prince glanced at the head butler with a raised eyebrow and a look that did nothing to hide his less than enthused state. "Is it a big deal to give a flower to a lady? I mean, don't we eat them?" 

"On the contrary, your highness! A fair number of kingdoms have adopted this custom among the royalty as an expression of friendship and good health to one another," the butler approached one of the roses and with extreme care caressed one of their petals, "A rose, in particular, is a symbolic expression of alliance and good faith, for how beautiful yet fragile the trust for one another can really be…and how its thorns serve as a warning to what will come if the trust is broken," he finished with a stern expression, lightly lifting the rose so the prince could see the thorns on it.

The prince turned his sight to his guards, who nodded in agreement with Flicker’s words before returning his attention to his teacher. "Ok, so it is important then, duly noted." 

"I assure you, your highness, this is a particularly important and delicate lesson. I urge you to pay attention to this." Flicker reproached with a small glare. 

"Don't worry, and you have my full attention. I will listen," Blueblood quickly assured the stallion. 

"Good, now as I was saying, contrary to other lessons, the act of offering a flower is exclusive to male royalty who fulfill the conditions of been available and are addressing a princess, with no exception." 

"Wait…so each time my aunts receive a king as a guest, they receive a flower?" 

"If the king in question is not married? Yes. Like I said, it exclusive is to only those available," Flicker clarified with a nod. "Therefore, just as the princess learned to receive them, you will have to learn how and what to deliver. Everything from your posture to the type of flowers influences these actions, and each flower has its own meaning." 

Flicker goes on and points to a section of the flower bed that was covered with Peruvian lilies. "The Peruvian Lilies, for example, are the most common to deliver and is known as the flower of friendship. To give this flower to a princess is to say that you appreciate and treasure their alliance and good relationship," Flicker explained. "Always present it with your left hoof. NEVER use your magic to give it. Using your magic indicates tension, and you would be declaring that your alliance with them hangs by a thread." 

"Wow, ok, that sounds like a giant insult, I will keep that in mind," Blueblood exclaimed, now scared and giving Flicker his complete attention. 

"Glad to hear that you understand the importance of this lesson, your highness. Now, remember when offering a flower, you must always say, 'for you milady,' to which the princess then takes the flower and answers 'a thousand thanks, kind sir' followed by their response for some cases. So quickly, what do you say when offering a flower?" 

"For you, milady," Blueblood repeated. 

"And how is your posture supposed to be when offering them?" 

"I am always to present it with my left hoof, and never use magic," Blueblood answered. 

"Good! Now onto the different types of flowers, as I said, the Peruvian Lily is the most common one that you will be using. Still, there is also the Spider Lily, which is to be presented to a princess from a nation that was recently in war. Then, there is the classic red rose, which denotes a romantic interest of the carnal type…" 

"Didn’t you say respect of alliance and how fragile they can be?" Blueblood pointed out catching the butler’s attention, “Excellent sir, I'm glad you paid attention, and yes this rose can be used in that manner as well, that is why it is called the power rose, a show of appreciation for a blooming alliance, and a declaration of intense romantic feelings.”  

“And how do I know the difference?” 

“Depends on where you offer it, just remember this old refrain: if the rose is offered in public, its an alliance appreciation, if it is offered in private, it a love declaration,” Flicker recited with a nod. 

“Ah, sounds easy to remember, I will keep it in mind,” Blueblood responded as Flicker continued his lesson. 

"The daffodil is for the interest of restoring or create a new alliance," Flicker continued as he kept pointing out the different flowers as he talked. "The hyacinth flower, to repent and ask forgiveness for past sins. And in case you wish to praise a fair maiden overtly, you never can go wrong with the White Lily," Flicker announced with a smile while pointing at them. "The flower of majesty offers one, and you are telling a princess that she is one of the most majestic and beautiful mares on the area.” 

"Got it, use it when you want to butter her up," Blueblood resumed, much to the amusement of his guards and the irritation of Flicker. "Please do not diminish the importance of the correct praise your highness." 

"Relax, Professor Flicker, I'm just joking," He responded. "Also…if I could ask, why do I need to use my left hoof specifically? Is it a problem if I used my right one?" Blueblood asked in curiosity. 

"It a question of intensity mostly, even when you use your left hoof to write or eat, the custom says that that right hoof is the strong side. Using it means that your intention is stronger, friendship with your right hoof, means asking if they would like to have 'benefits' with your relationship, majestic transforms into obsession, and carnal love becomes…"

"…a marriage proposal" Another female voice came from behind to answer Flicker, as Garra and Daga snapped into action and extended their wings, which were equipped with daggers along the edge as they placed themselves next to the prince while facing the new intruder. "Greetings, oh fair prince of Equestria." A tall, slender, albino lioness with a diamond-studded tiara atop of her head stood in front of them, long black dreadlocks with exquisite ornaments adorning some of them covering part of her face, which was painted with a tasteful amount of makeup, her eyes were of a vivid emerald colour. A sleeveless formal green victorian style dress hugged her well-developed body tightly and a golden ring clasped tightly her well-groomed tail greeted the prince as she held her dress and gave him a polite curtsy. "It so wonderful to finally meet you, I hope that I'm not interrupting anything," she greeted with a smile and slightly closed eye. 

The moment Flicker saw her, he immediately bowed and put his head as close to the ground as possible, "Your Highness," he says respectfully, yet the prince was too busy at the moment to notice any of that happening. 

"Wow," the prince said as he kept staring at the lioness in amazement from her beauty, his cheeks starting to heat up until he realized what was happening. it took only a slight shake his head to snap himself back to reality, "I-I mean” He took a glance at Flicker and how he continued to keep his head low, giving him an idea that the lady was important, so he needed to remain professional “Good evening madam, unfortunately, you indeed were interrupting an important lesson, but if you desired to see me so much I suppose I could lend you some of my time,” he responded in a professional and neutral tone. 

What the hell is that? Why all of a sudden did I get so flustered?” The prince questioned himself, not understanding what was happening to him while maintaining appearances.

“Wonderful! But your highness, there is no need to be formal around me, I assure you, I don’t wish to hurt you,” the cat responded, taking a step forward only for the prince to take a step back, an action that caught his guard’s attention. 

"Is everything ok, sir?" Garra asked in concern. 

"Would you like us to remove this cat from the premise, sir?" Daga asks him. 

"No!” the prince tells in an unexpected outburst of surprise before realizing what he was doing and cleared his throat. “I–I mean, it’s ok girls, so far she only wishes to say hi. No need to be rude, be on alert in case of any sudden moment," he instructed quietly, making them nod. “And, I apologize for the outburst; I don’t know what came over me,” he apologized, ashamed by his actions towards the twins.

Why do I feel so unsettled?

Suddenly Flicker clearing his throat and slightly glaring at him, made the Prince realized how rude it must have have been looking, and now was virtually ignoring her. So trying to save face as quickly as possible, the Prince clears his throat and puts into practice the lessons Flicker had imparted so far. " My most humble apologies for my previous behavior, the art of etiquette is a lesson I haven’t fully mastered yet; please allow me to start over... Greetings fair maiden, I'm indeed flattered that you wish to meet me in person, and even though I currently am receiving an important lesson, I will not deny your request of spending time with me."

Flicker nodded in approval at his quick reaction as Blueblood give the feline a courteous bow as well. "Would you like to join us for the remains of the lesson, miss…?" 

"Oh, where are my manners, a thousand apologies your highness. Please allow me to introduce myself properly, and my name is Nefertiti," she proclaimed in pride, "Princess Nefertiti the First, Princess of Abyssinia and second in line for the throne! And yes," she finishes with a smirk, "I would love to join you for the remainder of your lesson, your highness." 

Meanwhile in the Crystal Empire’s newest school

Shining Armor was walking toward his classroom while taking occasional glances at Amber and Stellar with some excitement. 

"Amber, Stellar, I want to tell you how happy and honored I am that you expressed your interest in learning emotional magic. The fact that I would have the opportunity not only to spend time with you but teach two of the best Celestial Centurions and my heroes fills me with excitement!" He confided in the pair, almost prancing for a moment before he stopped and looked back at them with a slight blush on his cheeks. "…which is probably why I should apologize ahead of time from any small outburst of emotions during our classes, and such are the risks when learning to manipulate your emotions." 

"There is no need for apologies, and your Highness," Amber answered as Stellar shook her head, both of them remaining stoic as they walked. "The nature of the emotional spectrum is the reason for our visit in the first place. An outburst is logical to appear; we are counting on it," she said, hardening her gaze alongside her friend. 

"Wow, wow, wow, ok, some ground rules before we begin," Shining stopped in front of them with some worry. "As the name implies, the emotional spectrum relies heavily on your current mood, which means you can run the risk of drowning in any single one of them. So to prevent any accidents, we made a rule," he points to a plaque on the wall, "Neither anger or fear enters this classroom. If you're feeling any of that, the school is equipped with special rooms to blow off some steam, and our school counselor will listen to any worries you may have." Shining explained with a smile. 

Both centurions looked at each other before regarding the prince in confusion. "Why make such a rule your highness? Aren't those part of the emotional spectrum and normal feelings to have?" 

"In most situations, I would agree, but when learning the magic behind emotions, those two are the most dangerous. Cadence and I are even considering banishing them both from the curriculum altogether." 

"NO!" Amber exclaimed in fear as they both take a step closer to Shining Armor. "I…I mean, why do such extreme measures, your highness?" 

"Because even just a little amount of anger or fear puts you in a very vulnerable position. And it's so easy to drown and lose yourself in those emotions. Trust me when I say that. I speak from experience," he remarks with a hint of pain his voice "I tried the fear and anger spectrum once, and that ONE time was enough to teach me how hard it is to control them, and how terrifying they could be if you get lost to them. So…that's why we have the plaque," he finishes, smiling, trying to forget the incident. 

"We understand your highness," Amber responded with a nod, "And will respect your wishes, although perhaps you might want to reconsider removing an emotion of your school. I will not deny the risk, but if well trained and prepared, a skilled student might teach you forms to control such power. Perhaps it could be a matter of periodic small doses with a bit of practice," she negotiated with him.

"Well, …maybe? I don't know, but it's not something for beginners to try!" Shining restated his point, "So before we start the class, I need you to promise me, you will clear your minds of any anger or will express it safely in the pertinent facilities, understood?" 

"Sir, yes sir!" they responded mostly out of instinct "I…I mean understood your highness, sorry for that, just a soldier hiccup right there," 

"Nah, don't sweat it. I more than know about that. Between you and me, I still find it hard to believe that I'm sitting on a throne instead of standing beside one, protecting a Princess," he confessed with some embarrassment. "Once a soldier, always a soldier, am I right, ladies?" 

"So true," they all shared some laughs as they finally reached the classroom.

"Well, miladies, hope you are as excited as I am right now because this will be one emotional experience." 

Both mares rolled their eyes at his wordplay 

"Welcome, to Emotional Magic, One-Oh-One!" Shining proclaimed as he opens the doors to his classroom.
> Our Place In The Game Board (RB And BS )
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Soon after joining Blueblood's lesson in etiquette, Nefertiti took an unusual amount of initiative with each assignment that Flicker imparted to the Prince, at first offering examples or experiences where she had to exercise the practices of nobility. She quickly went so far as to offer herself up to be used to practice hand gestures, greetings, and even proper placement in case of required dances. The latter earned an internal groan from the Prince, who still couldn't believe there were more than fifteen different types of slow dances he needed to learn. And that was just for pegasus dignitaries, and he now realized there is even more for other races. 

That sentiment appeared to be shared by the princess, who took advantage of Flicker getting distracted for a moment to speak to Blueblood in his ear. "Talk about tedious, am I right?"  

With wide eyes, the Prince looked at Nefertiti in surprise as she merely winked before going back to her charade. 

"……aaaaaaand done, separated," Flicker called out, approaching the two with a ruler and measuring the distance between them with a critical eye. "Hmm, five inches more than necessary, your highness. It is a good thing; this is a practice dance. Otherwise, Princess Nefertiti would have had the right to be severely offended." 

"Please tell me that you're joking," the Prince looked at his instructor, getting more tired and slightly irked on how many ridiculous rules kept popping up, each one more demanding and dictating then the previously one, how he walked, stand, and even look when doing anything.

"Proper decorum is by no means a laughing manner, your highness! High society has one of the most critical eyes. Every action performed needs absolute devotion and grace," he states earnestly before addressing the princess. "I can’t stress enough how grateful I am for your help, Princess Nefertiti, Prince Blueblood may have become more decent and kind in recent months, but his manners on nobility are still a work in progress." 

"As true as that might be, my recent condition plus no recollection of a great portion of rules on ethics explains why there will be slow progress in this lesson, Profesor," the Prince defended, occasionally stopping to try and think the right and proper way to phrase his complaints. 

"Much work to do indeed," Flicker confirmed in disappointment and with a shake of his head. 

"Please, Mr. Flicker, there is no need for such harsh words to the prince," Nefertiti commented as she and the guards approached Blueblood. "It true that mistakes were made and practice can erase errors, but like a diamond in the rough, there is potential in you, your highness. Please don't be wary of having offended me, since you didn't, and I will gladly assist you with your practice some more if you so desire in the future," she ended by giving him a courtesy. The Prince’s heart fluttered yet again, and it seemed to force him to take a step back in discomfort once more.

There is that sensation again; why does this keep happening? Human ladies! You like human ladies! 

The sound of Flicker clearing his throat brought the Prince back to reality. "And I will keep such offer in mind, thank you for your help, fair maiden," the Prince returned the gesture, making Flicker nod in approval. 

"Very well, I believe with this; we can conclude our lesson for the day. Princess Nefertiti, would you like for me to escort you to the dining hall? We can prepare a dish for your enjoyment while you wait for an audience with the…" 

The princess stopped him by lifting her paw "…that will not be necessary Mr. Flicker, as much as it would honor me to speak with the princesses, the reason of my visit is to speak with Prince Blueblood. With our respective guards as the only ones present if that would be acceptable," she told the butler, her nearly unnoticeable passive-aggressive tone was caught by Blueblood and put him on alert with a general feeling of unease as Flicker nodded. Garra and Daga took glances at one another from those actions and slowly drew closer to Blueblood in a protective manner as they subtly checked their weapons. 

"Very well, your highnesses. If you require anything else, feel free to address any maid or butler on duty, and they will assist you to post-haste," Flicker informed them, respectfully bowing to both before taking his leave. Once out of earshot, Nefertiti let go of a particularly big sigh and relaxed her posture slightly before looking at Blueblood. "Aaaaaaand scene," she closed her eyes and joined her fingers together as if she was finishing her performance of an act. Surprising both Blueblood and the twins.  

"Once more, another flawless performance of a dignitary, elegant, and proven by your heated checks, gorgeous exotic princess of a faraway land," she proclaimed with a great deal of pride before smirking and chuckling as she looked at the rest. "Ah, are you confused? Didn't you expect such a twist from an otherwise shy and collected Princess?" she asked, putting her hand on her chest as she struck a pose. "Such is the power of acting!" she virtually yelled the last sentence while raising her paw into the air.  

Holy broadway musical, I think I just found the missing cast member of 'cats' The Prince thought, as he recovered from the initial shock and cleared his throat before speaking again. "Well, as great as that performance was…?" 

"Oh, please hold your applause," she faked modesty while holding her checks. 

"Riiight, as much as how good that acting was milady. I find myself forced to ask why make such a performance, rather than speak freely?" 

"For the same reason why you are still doing it," she answered honestly, relaxing her posture. "You can drop the act too; by the way, there is no one else looking," she encouraged him.  

"Ahemph!" the twins voice their opinion glaring at the princess. 

"Right, besides your personal nannies," she added.

"Oh no, that would be entirely inappropriate, miss Nefertiti," the Prince countered, taking a step back as the guards slowly extend their wings on alert. 

"Trust me, other than stifling by the book teachers, and the occasional noise noble' nobody cares, especially between us royals," Nefertiti insists with a neutral expression and a roll of her eyes. "Come on; I wish to talk with the real Blueblood, not this mumbo jumbo act of refined prince, which by the way, hard to break it to you honey but…ah no, the theatre is not for you," she confessed, snapping her fingers a couple of times. Her antics had a surprisingly calming effect on the Prince as a nervous chuckle escaped his lips as he started to smirk. 

She is a cat lady, a cat lady! Focus!

"It was that bad, eh?" Blueblood answered, finally giving in and relaxed his posture. Trying his best to ignore an increasingly unsettled sensation he had and decided he was being paranoid, then placing his hoofs on the twins indicating to them that they should relax as well. They looked at him, confused but complied.

"There you go! Now we are getting somewhere," Nefertiti exclaimed in happiness while approaching him. The guards were clearly at a loss, not understanding what was happening or what they should do. "Also, yes, you still need a lot more practice, Bluey, mind if I call you Bluey? Our names are kind of long, so maybe shortening them could help, you can call me Nifi if you wish," 

"S-Sure, and I don't have a problem with Bluey. You are right; my name can be a bit of a mouthful," he agrees with a smile, silently thanking her for a chance to drop the honorific and talk regularly. "And thanks for letting me relax a bit, Nifi, you are right. Keeping up appearances can be particularly tiresome." 

"So true, which is why I wanted to teach you my kind of lesson before that butler gave you a wrong impression about how the world of us princes and princesses operate. After all, bargaining chips need to stick together." 

"Bargaining Chips?" The Prince looks at her, confused with a raised eyebrow. 

"You don't know?" She asked, genuinely surprised before looking at him on pity before sighing with sadness. "Then I suppose this is a good time as any to rip off the band-aid, Bluey, The title of prince, especially the one that is granted because of a blood relation to the real rulers, has a darker and less glamorous side of the job description," she explained, while keeping her head low. "You see as their direct descendants, those that rule a kingdom have involved us in their eternal game of power. That becomes evident each time a favor is needed, or an alliance is offered," she elaborated much to the surprise of Blueblood as he suddenly remembered the words of his aunts in the restaurant, slowly starting to piece together the implications she was saying. 

"The marriage proposal deal,” he says in realization, before getting angry. "My aunts would never do that, they told me themselves! Equestria would freeze before they would hand me over to any ruler!" 

"So they at the very least explained your marriage deals then?" She asked with a calm smile, not fazed by his outburst. 

"The very least?" Blueblood asked, not expecting that response from her. 

"You think a union is the only play on their game?" She asks surprise. "Bluey, like I told you, in the game of power, a direct descendant is the perfect bargaining chip for an alliance; throw out a union. But if the chip shows more potential, then it's worth rises…as well as its demands. Potential like, for example, solving an economic and crime crisis in an unthinkably short amount of time," she casually pointed out. "Yeah, that will do the trick to get the attention of various rulers, and by the way, bravo with that one. You truly turned heads with that performance," she complimented honestly followed with a slow clap 

"Even if true, my aunts will. Not. Allow. It," the Prince pointedly stated.

"That is not going to stop others from trying," Nefertiti quickly responded, "Like my father, for example, who got interested in your exploits in Manehattan." 

"So, that is why you're here then?" The Prince asked with a disappointed tone as she nodded. 

"If so, then why are you telling me all of this…assuming that I believe you. After all, you are one heck of an actress," 

"Awww stop it, Bluey, you are going to make blush," she said suddenly, getting embarrassed and looking away, as Blueblood continued. 

"Which means you are particularly good at lying and faking emotions." 

That stopped Nefertiti as she slowly turns to look at him. "Hurtful…yet not without merit," she admitted with a nod before smiling slightly. "It seems like you have indeed gotten wiser. True, there is no reason for you to believe me, and I, as the great actress that I am, could make a convincing act of being a duck with a dragon tail if I so desired. So I believe that some proof could be in order." 

She then starts to unzip the lower part of her dress, surprising the Prince and guards who quickly covered his eyes with their wings. "Nifi…what are you doing?" The Prince asked, pulling the wings down slowly as he notices how the princess’s dress hid a pair of black shorts as well as jogging shoes. The bit of cloth she removed was repurposed as an improvised cape that she re-zipped over her shoulders. 

"Changing for the occasion; we are going to need a bit of stealth for me to show you exactly what I'm talking about. Now, let's go, by now, the argument over you should be starting knowing my father." 

"And how do I know this is not what you want? " The Prince asks, wary of her. 

To this, she only gestured all around. "In your home? Surrounded by your guards? Without a way for me to escape or hide if I tried something? What could I possibly do?" 

The Prince thought about it but ultimately decided to follow much to the displeasure of his guards. 

"Your highness, are you sure?" Garra asked in concern as he nodded. 

"My guards have lighting speed and quick reactions, Nefertiti, don't forget that either. Try something, and you will be on the ground before knowing what happened; I will be watching you," the Prince warned her as she nodded in understanding. 

"More than fair; I just have one request." 

"Which is?" 

"Please keep your eyes above the neck," she made a joke before winking. "Just kidding, now let's go and see how our parents and relatives are faring," she proclaimed in excitement while heading back into the castle. 

She is a cat lady! This shouldn’t be affecting me. What is going on!?

The Prince only blinked before looking at the guards. "Stay close and keep an eye on her," He instructed before following Nefertiti inside after the twins acknowledged his orders.

A short time later, both royals managed to find the meeting room where his family was talking alongside other rulers and eavesdropped on their conversation. Celestia had wisely had sent request letters asking for a group audience simultaneously. A meeting that Atticus probably had been a part of hadn't he arrived in Canterlot unannounced, and just as Nefertiti, told him the discussion they were having quickly went into a negotiation involving Blueblood. 

"And now that we took care of the returning of stolen goods and the transport of criminals let us pass to the next issue on the agenda," Celestia announced, with the other kings and queens silhouettes showing on different golden caldrons and the royal cats. 

"Ah yes, the subject of your nephew and his recent exploits," Atticus commented with a confident smile. "I believed that from helping so many of us dealing with these particularly dangerous criminals, some form of reward is needed. As an expression of gratitude for his help." 

"Indeed, but before any of that is discussed, I would like to begin this conversation by stopping any and all attempts you may be thinking of for an arranged marriage involving him," Celestia quickly proclaimed with severity, earning a smile from Blueblood as he looked at Nefertiti "See?" 

"Keep listening; this is where the game starts," she whispered back to him as they kept listening to the conversation. 

"A rather bold statement Princess," a minotaur figure responded, "Ignoring the slight insult of you denying us the option of even negotiating on the prospect. Rejecting such offer deprives all of so much we could achieve together, the bonds of friendship we can strengthen, the possibilities of combining our forces, that…" 

"Not. For. Debate," Celestia replied before he could continue. 

"Better let it go, King Bulkups," Another female figure responded, this one appeared to be some horse siren. "Princess Celestia has made up her mind, so we should be respectful of her decision." 

"Thank you, Queen Novo," Celestia responded to her friend with a smile. 

"That being said, Bulkups still raises a point that needs discussion," Atticus the Second voiced his opinion. "Princess Celestia, you can deny us that option, but the truth of the matter is that Equestria has been gathering various sources of particularly powerful magic that comes in various forms. The idea of one country controlling day and night is scary enough, but in the last couple of years, you have managed to retrieve six ancient elements believed to be lost, gained the favor of the literal incarnation of chaos, and claimed control over a lost civilization that has recently developed a new form of magic, all this coupled with the recent creation of a new and skilled princess with a budding potential in both leadership…and possible warfare. It leads to questions." 

"The Crystal Empire is not under princess Celestia’s control! I can assure you; we are an independent nation just like the rest of you." This time Blueblood managed to distinguish and hear the voice of his cousin, Princess Cadence. "Twilight has been raised and trained to be a fair ruler and would never try to conquer other nations, or even attack them unless provoked. The elements protect more than just Equestria and, if needed, will come to your aid, and as for Discord, he is a free spirit that can do what he pleases; he is no way under our jurisdiction," she starts to list. 

"True, but Blueblood is, am I wrong?" he asks with a raised eyebrow. 

"Prince Atticus, is there a point to this?" Celestia asked.

"As Princess Cadence just listed, Discord, the Crystal Empire, and The Elements all of them are independent individuals or kingdoms that already serve the greater good on a global scale, and in the case of the elements simply serve under the rule of Equestria when not on missions of friendship as they have been called, but your nephew on the other paw? He still has binding obligations as a prince of Canterlot, doesn’t he?" 

"Binding obligations?" Blueblood whispered in confusion. 

"Told you, bargaining chips," Nefertiti whispered back while pointing at both her and him. In that instant, the Prince started to remember his meeting with Despero and how so far, he subconsciously been doing the same thing he did while human. But now, to his horror, he was starting to see Celestia doing the same his father did. Treating him like a pet project or in this case, a political advantage/ offer. 

No, NO! S-She is not him; she is not!” The Prince shakes his head before continuing to listen.

"My son raises a good point Princess Celestia, and since tragically, you have closed your heart on the beauty that would have been such spectacular wedding, much to mine and Princess Cadence's clear grief." 

"Wait, that I'm what now?" Cadence look at Atticus, confused, but he merely continued unfazed.  

"I propose one, although not as beautiful alternative," he dramatically exclaims much to the confusion of Blueblood as he slowly turns to Nefertiti, who shakes her head. 

"Don't ask," She quickly answers.

"To ease any tensions his actions might have caused, and as a symbol of friendship between nations, I propose that Blueblood becomes an economic adviser for all of us," Atticus offered much to the horror of Blueblood.

I rather die before going diving into that world! He resolved in both anger and disgust. 

"Imagine my fellow rulers, the wisdom that this pony has demonstrated quite easily surpassed any expectations we might have had. It took him one month to save a series of dying franchises and made them bloom into economic powerhouses without any effort. What do you think he could achieve with a whole functional kingdom? With his advice, it is quite possible that not only we, but all of our subjects could eat and prosper like kings for years to come!" 

"No..." the Prince whispered as he slowly started to back away from the door. 

"Atticus raises a good option," Bulkups pointed out. "And he knows how to fight too, I would love to have him as a guest!" he finishes in excitement.

"Any family member of Celestia's family is welcome here too," Novo adds as well. 

"So, we are on an agreement here then?" Atticus asked the princess with a smirk who looked at the gathered rulers and sighed. 

"Very well," the voice of Princess Celestia shook the Prince to the core as she spoke, while in his eyes, the silhouette of his father formed beside her. "We'll begin the discussion of his services." 

"No. " the Prince shook his head and turned around, escaping the room, not believing his ears. 

"H-hey! wait up!" Nefertiti gave chase, confused about what happened to him, but both were too far gone to hear the rest of the meeting. 

"I will open the idea of my nephew visiting your lands as a show of good faith, as a TEMPORARY arrangement, with the function of a minor advisor, but the decision of consulting or not will fall ultimately with him," she said with all due seriousness. "And we will respect his wishes regardless of the answer, are we clear?" 

"But of course, Princess, and as rulers, you have our word that we will be the best of hosts while on his visit," Atticus says solemnly, placing a hand over his chest. 

While all of that happened, Nefertiti managed to finally catch up to the guards who were restraining Blueblood while he continued to shake like a leaf. "I'm not going back to that world; I will not! There is only greed and traitors in there," the Prince exclaimed, not talking to anyone in particular. 

"Your highness, control yourself, relax!" Garra tried her best, but the Prince still didn’t respond as he kept shaking his head as if trying to wake up from a bad dream. 

"Oh boy, I didn't imagine it will hit him, this hard. It’s ok, though. I know what to do." Nefertiti said quietly to the guards as she approached, only to Daga to stop and raise her wings in front of her. "I think you've done enough already! 'Your highness-'" 

"You want me to turn tail and leave him like this?" She replied indignantly, pointing to Blueblood. 

"You mean the condition YOU put him into in the first place?" 

"Look! He is hyperventilating, and if I don't know this…oh boy, I don't have time for this, guards! Open the way!" she yells at the air, and seconds later, two cats dressed as ninjas fell on top of the twins and after a brief scuffle, moved them out of the way so the princess could reach the Prince. 

"Get away from him you little…!" Daga tried to throw one of her knives. Still, the ninjas blocked their way. The two guards watched to see how she only grabbed the Prince by the head and, to the surprise of everyone, pressed his face against her chest hard, pulling him into a tight embrace where he almost immediately yelled as hard and loud as he could. 

They were shocked by the action, and even more so by how it seemed to have worked as moments later, the Prince started to calm down enough to breath and let go of Nefertiti while holding his chest. 

"Feeling better?" 

"Yeah…yeah, I think so…how…how did you know that would work?" Blueblood asked, genuinely surprised and confused by her actions. 

"I told you, we bargaining chips need to stick together," she informs him with a sad smile. "I have been in your shoes before, so I know when somepony needs to scream. Usually, a pillow would work, but this seemed like an emergency, so like any good actress, I improvised a little."

"Thanks," Blueblood commented, keeping his head down as Nefertiti ninjas released his own so all four could approach. "You were right Nifi, we are pieces to them, even my aunts will use me in some capacity to avoid tensions with other rulers," he said while keeping his head as low as possible, his heart felt like it was in complete tatters, flooded with sadness and anger, he was no longer sure about what to believe or if he could genuinely trust his aunt after that. 

"Maybe, but that doesn't mean we can't turn the situation around in our favor," Nefertiti suggests, slowly lifting his head. 

"Turning it around? Is there a way to do that?" the Prince asked, surprised by her offer as she smiles and nods. 

"Would you like to learn how?" she asks him with a playful smirk. 

The Prince took one glance toward the door where the meeting was still taking place before hardening his gaze, then looking back at Nefertiti before nodding once.
> Nifi Offer (RB And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After an agreement was reached, the meeting between royals concluded. Each ruler took their leave without much else being said. There was, of course, a series of respectful goodbyes and general relief of seeing Celestia in a good mood once more, until eventually only the King and Prince Atticus remained with the Princess. 

"And yet another gathering between rulers comes to a close. Princess Celestia, we must organize additional get-togethers more often, if possible, with better circumstances to talk." King Atticus said, giving the Princess an exaggerated bow. Celestia knew that all he was doing was buttering her up for future favors, but she didn't voice her thoughts and instead played along. 

"I share your sentiment, King Atticus, it's a real shame such wishes might be a distant dreams thanks to our positions and duties," she edged closer to him, "Especially when unannounced guests put a halt on said jobs." 

"Nonsense! We are the rulers of our kingdoms, are we not? I say that if I wish to spend time between friends and fellow rulers, we should be granted that luxury. Besides, that is a benefit of knowing how to delegate, am I wrong?" 

"Oh, if only the stars could hear you," Celestia replied, mentally rolling her eyes as she used their magic to open the doors. 

"Regardless of your sudden arrival, I appreciated your visit King and Prince Atticus. Let us hope that next time I can repay the surprise," Celestia tells them with a practiced smile as they approach. 

"But of course, the doors of our kingdom shall forever be open for you, Princess, and once my sweet daughter returns, we will stop taking up more of your valued time." 

That last sentence caught Celestia off guard as she quickly turned to the king. "Nefertiti is here?" 

"Oh? Did I forget to mention that my sweet and beautiful daughter may have arrived after us? My mistake," the king replied, faking surprise as Celestia's blood froze a little when recalling her multiple encounters with the dubious cat growing up. 

Like her father, she had a particular flair for the dramatic, but unlike him, she seemed to have a degree of self-awareness of her actions and took joy in "performing" all the time. This made her hard to read and know her true intentions, even for the royal sisters. Which in turns made her into one particularly dangerous Princess to be around Blueblood. 

"Of course we didn't mean any harm or offense by no telling you Celestia. We weren't lying or hiding her arrival; she just wanted to explore the city for a bit before joining us in the castle, and there were more pressing matters to attend to. I hope you understand," Atticus informed as he explained why he never mentioned Nefertiti, or why or when she would arrive. 

"Not at all, although I would have preferred to have been informed of the arrival of your daughter. There are indeed some areas open to the public within the palace and can't blame her for wishing to visit the garden," Celestia replied with a practiced smile. Yet, she felt a small seed of nervous energy sprout as the idea of Blueblood near that cat dawned upon her. 

And indeed just like Atticus said, Flicker approached her soon after they exited the room to inform of the arrival of Nefertiti while the meeting was in session and how she managed to not only to find out where Blueblood was at the moment, but how he was entertaining her while Celestia was busy. How she even found out where Blueblood was in the first place was anyone's guess, but Celestia assumed she managed to trick some guards into telling her by using her skills on them. 

And to make matters worse, when asked where they were at the current moment, one of her guards informed her that both prince and princess exited the castle not too long ago. 

"Aw, so kind of your nephew, wishing to show the city to my daughter. Quite the gentlestallion, isn't he?" Atticus voiced his thoughts with a smirk.

"Indeed," Celestia copied his expression before slowly turning around to look at him and fake wonder. "Buuuuut, the fact that they outside makes me wonder about a tiny little issue." 

"Oh? And what issue would that be? Come on, Celestia, kids will be kids, let them have fun," Atticus argued back while keeping his smile. "Do you want to be that kind of aunt?" 

"Of course not, but at times one needs to put their hoof or feet down for the ones you love." She quickly replied, growing more and more concerned. "Look me in the eye and tell that I'm wrong, Atticus, not as a ruler but as a parent." She demanded in all seriousness, starting to make the king nervous as he lightly chuckled. 

"Je wha…what are you doing?" He asked, confused about her demeanor. 

"Look me in the eyes, and remember the very first time you held your daughter in your arms and tell me that you don't mind that she and my nephew are running around. Heavens know were, with minimum security. Where they could be kidnapped easily and then be exchanged for literally a king's ransom? Tell me you are not worried in the slightest, and I'll stop right here." 

"Ah..." The king was at a loss of words as Celestia's explanation seemed to have awakened his paternal instinct all of a sudden, like flipping a switch that he didn't know he had. 

"Your precious and delicate daughter, alone and scared in some dark cellar, maybe hurt and heavens forbid, bleeding. Her captors looking at her like a piece of meat, arguing about how much to ask for her safe return, maybe even not keeping their word." she kept pressing as their foreheads were nearly touching together. Celestia was careful with her horn; To others, it would seem like she was getting into his head, and even though that was true, She meant what she said. Every word she was saying applied to her as well. Their parental emotions were overriding everything else until Atticus's smile dropped so it could be replaced with one of shock. "We need to bring them back!" he yelled in a complete panic breaking eye contact. 

"You think?" she asked sarcastically as they started to issue orders left and right to bring them back as soon as possible using the tracking spell that Luna placed on Blueblood. 

"Erm, guys? Isn't Blueblood a skilled fighter? And Nifi's bodyguards are experts on the art of escape. Guys?" the Princes questions fell on deaf ears as the parent's kept ordering everyone around to bring them back, Celestia even going so far as not wanting to waste more time and giving the green light to the 'teleport when found,' protocol — leaving him dumbfounded on how his father freaked out. 

What just happened? 

Half an hour earlier on a local public park

"Here you go, sir, four hay dogs with everything," a hot dog vendor floated four hay dogs to Blueblood while he levitated the bits for all of them and took them with his magic. 

Goodbye to balanced food days, then. At least I still have this going for me. Blueblood thought, trying to calm down a little from the night's previous events, before thanking the vendor and returning to his companions, who were waiting on a nearby bench with some beverages. All of them were wearing hoods over their heads to avoid recognition. 

"Sir, by the stars at the very least, let me take care of that," Garra tried to grab some of the hay dogs only for the prince to pull them away.

"I got this," Blueblood responded coldly, his magic short-circuiting for a moment, forcing him to hold his head, scaring the guards "Sir!" They approached, but Blueblood raised his hoof 

"I'm ok, just had…a little headache, probably because I did the spell wrong for a second, take the hot dogs, please?" 

Garra took the food away from him but insisted on coming closer, "Are you sure, perhaps we should return to…" 

"I said, I'm fine!" Blueblood snapped, his eyes briefly turning red before going back to normal "I'm sorry Garra, I didn't mean to snap at you. I'm just processing a lot right now, so please, just please let it go." 

"But sir..." 

"Please!" Blueblood repeated, glaring at her. "Just let me calm down," he said almost as if he was growling, Garra was still unsure of what happened but decided to relent and nodded, keeping quiet and staying behind while taking the treats with one of her wings.

"I still don't understand why couldn't we stay in the castle," Daga complained as she took occasional glances over her shoulder. "I don't like being here; we are way too exposed." 

"Oh come on, dear, there's no need to be overly dramatic," Nefertiti answered, making the guard looks at her in shock.

"I'm overly dramatic?" 

"I just told you, didn't I? If Bluey and I are meaning to talk, we are going to need a certain degree of privacy from nosey maids or eavesdropping guards; mainly to avoid interruptions or objections." 

"Hey!" Daga voiced her anger toward that comment. 

"Look me in the eyes and tell me that your guards don't gossip about what happens behind the walls of the castle." 

She tried to argue but ultimately couldn't do anything and lapsed back into silence. 

"That is what I thought," she said before taking a bite of her treat. "Besides, after such a huge revelation, some fresh air is just what you needed, right, Bluey?" Nefertiti asked, looking at Blueblood while he remained quiet, staring at his food with a sad face. 

Did I rush into things? She sounded just like my dad, but I did run off pretty quickly, His expression turned from seriousness to sadness. Did I do the right thing? All of this seems wrong. But at the same time…familiar somehow, like I'm forgetting something important, but what? Augh! What I'm doing? Why is it so hard to think? He internally monologues, trying to comprehend what was happening. 

"Right, still shaken by the news, got it."

There was no reply from him as he just kept his head low and closed his eyes while trying in vain to clear his mind, making Nefertiti sigh and shake her head. 

"Listen, I know it hurts, and it's not fair for me to be telling you this, but the sooner you accept reality, the sooner I can help, and trust me, stewing in your emotions make things worse. Yeah, we are just pawns in their game, but as I said, there is a way to turn that fact in our favor, and the trick starts by accepting our roles." 

"Our roles?" Blueblood finally spoke up as he slowly looked at her. "You think that is as easy as that?! Just put on a happy face and accept that at any point, we can be exchanged for a favor?! My aunt betrayed me! She looked me in the eyes and told me that she wouldn't use me for this, and then she…she used a technicality to place me up as an option! I…" he yelled at her before looking back to the ground, holding back tears. 

"I can't believe she would actually do this to me, I don't even know if she really did, maybe running away was a mistake," he finished, not looking at anyone and clearly still affected by the events that happened earlier, his guards took occasional worried glances at one another with how he was behaving.

"Ok, I will give you that, at the very least she had the decency of taking the possibility of arranged marriage away!" Nefertiti commented as she started to get legitimately angry from memory. "Do you have any idea of what it feels to be treated like some trophy? To be dismissed and be expected to 'look pretty and play the part of the perfect princess'…to discover your family thinks of you as some project instead of as a living being?" she whispered the last part, her ears folded down to rest on top of her head in depression as she eats. The feline didn't realize how that previous sentence managed to strike a chord with the prince. 

"I'm more than a pretty face, you know? I have dreams of goals. I love my kingdom just as much my brother does, and I would do anything to make it flourish and be greater than the last generation of my family! At the very least, you still have a voice, and you had the option of getting out and exploring your city whenever you like. Most of my life was spent inside the castle doing nothing but learning posture and ridiculous manners and costumes! Do you have any idea of how that feels?" 

"I do, actually," Blueblood replied with a sigh, catching the Princess by surprise. "Growing up my aunt didn't let me out much, she told me that it was for my protection," he took a bite of his hot dog only for his head to go green and spit the piece out in disgust. 

What the hell? I know that I have eaten hay alternative foods before, so why all of a sudden… The prince briefly remembered the words of Dr. Caliber and got scared when he felt his face heating up for a brief moment. Oh boy, that is not a good sign!

"You too, eh?" Nefertiti asked while turning to look at him with a raised eyebrow as Blueblood quickly discarded his food and nods. "We are like birds on a cage, begging to fly, am I right?" Nefertiti half-joked, trying to ease the situation a little as Blueblood nodded once more.  

"So, how did you escape that destiny? From what you have told me, this isn't the first time they used you for this." 

Nefertiti smiled again and leaned back. "Not going to sugar-coat it Bluey, it was hard, but after discovering that my first 'fiance' was precisely in the same boat that I was, we agreed on not wanting to give up even more of our freedom. So we figured out a smart way to avoid being used." 

"How?" Blueblood asked, intrigued by this revelation. 

"Three words, sweetheart; pretend and counteroffer," she exclaimed in pride while lifting her extended paw in front of him. "Like I did when we met, play the part of a prestigious and proper princess, and then once they are gone drop the act and go about our real business." 

"So, that is why your personality changed so fast after Flicker was gone." Blueblood nodded as he slowly figured out what was happening. Nifi was talking like one of his associates on earth. 

"Couldn't let that stifler go tell your aunt or my father what we were truly doing, am I right?" she said with a wink. "If they want to use us, then we only need to use them first. By relying on each other, we can figure out how to use our position to our advantage and build a counteroffer to whatever they want us to tie the knot for." 

"But we don't have any power over them; any offer we make could be simply ignored." He points out in anger

"Not if we trick them into believing that it was their idea in the first place," she replied with a smirk. "A slip of paper here, a whisper there, if necessary a rumor of betrayal, something to build some tension and then, wedding off and crisis averted." 

"Like a puppet master, they think they are pulling our strings when in reality it will be the other way around" Blueblood commented, intrigued by that revelation 

"Sir, you can't be serious!" Garra snapped his train of thought as he looked at her in alarm. "What you are suggesting is nefarious and dirty," she tried to plead to his heart, trying to reconsider.

"And will that be any different than what they were doing just now, dear?" Nefertiti countered feeding in more to the flames of anger in the prince before patting his shoulder. "I know this looks bad, but unfortunately, this tactic is the only card we can play. We can either surrender our freedom or make them play our own game. And from what I heard, you don't seem like the surrendering type, right?" 

"Of course not," He stated flatly while glaring at the air 

"Then, let show them that we can play dirty just as much if not better than they can."

"You would be betraying their trust, your highness!" Garra insisted, trying for Blueblood to see reason. 

"You will be fighting for your freedom!" Nefertiti kept talking. 

"Please, sir, I understand that you are angry, but don't let that cloud your judgment," Daga pleaded as well. 

"Oh, would you give it a rest! What could you two possibly know about us? Do you think this is easy? Do you think we take pleasure in having to fight to have a voice? This what being a royal means," Nefertiti snapped back at the royal guards before looking at Blueblood "Right Bluey?" 

The prince remained quiet, replaying everything that had happened over the day ever since he met Nifi; a part of him was still wary of Celestia. He saw merit in what Nefertiti was offering, but the words of Garra and Daga managed to not only clear his mind but also highlighted Nefertiti's hidden intentions. It was the classic trick of fostering distrust between him and his "superior" that was step one. Step two was to then implant the idea of a partnership to archived a common goal, usually involving an act of revenge or even a powerplay. He was more than familiar with that move; it was virtually one of the first ones he mastered. The fact that he was on the other end of the situation was both a form of poetic justice and a repulsive return of his last life. 

And I almost fell for it like a freaking chump! Blueblood scolded himself from falling for her trap so quickly, though credit where credit was due, he had to praise her acting skill in how well she managed to fool him although he wasn't entirely sure how she achieved it that fast. You little backstabbing minx! I got you now, and I'm not going to make the same mistake twice. Blueblood internally glared at Nefertiti while maintaining his expression of surprise and fear. 

So, you want to dance with the wolf, kitty? Bring it! 

He was about to give her his answer when suddenly, a squad of royal guards appeared seemingly out of nowhere and quickly approached the prince despite his disguise. Much to his shock, while both of their guards took on a circle formation to defend the royals. 

"Prince Blueblood, there you are!" one unicorn guard called out. 

"What the…?" Blueblood could only say before his entire group is lifted in the air by the magic of various unicorns. 

"Stay still your highnesses, Princess Celestia and King Atticus have been worried sick since your disappearance. We received orders to return you to the castle immediately, so please don't struggle while we teleport you back." 

"Teleport? Wait! Don't…!" Before he could complain, they all disappeared in a flash of light.

Meanwhile at the school of friendship. 

Taking advantage of the end of the lesson and using the labs in the school, Twilight decided to pull an all-nighter, returning to the problem that she hadn't been able to solve even with the help of Shining Armor. There was progress to be sure, but the speed of things was pretty slow, and the commotion of Blueblood's self-exile and Celestia's martial law put a screeching halt to their progress. 

The frustration of having to stop in solving the problem when they had been so close to an answer was irritating, to say the least, so to ease her mind a little and fearing that soon another thing would stop her once again, Twilight decided to speed things up and started testing reactions of the infamous sedative rocks against other elements. First was with the periodic table, and when that turned into a dead-end, she decided to apply another approach.

The advances she made with her brother determined that the rock was half of the formula, and its only function was to keep the victim asleep, so she concluded that the real killer was the other unknown agent in the poison. 

So having a theory, she didn't waste time in testing how the rock would react with different substances that were known to make a pony bleed or open its pores so much that it could make them sweat profusely. Her first attempts failed, and she concluded that whatever the lethal substance was, it wasn't a poison on its own and most likely was something that could be easily obtained. That was an implication that both fascinated and terrified her, mainly of how easy it would be to make such an efficient and silent weapon if that was the case. 

Her efforts were about to lead her to yet another dead end until she arrived at the most unlikely of options; formulas and ointments reserved for athletes and royal guards. Having exhausted all other options, she decided to, at the very least, give them a try before calling a day. Diligently working on some chemicals and wearing safety goggles and a lab coat, Twilight stared at a beaker while inch by inch, she levitated a pipet with a blue liquid substance inside, placing it near said beaker which contained a sample of pulverized Dreamer Rock. Once a single drop landed on the dust, a constant white smoke emerged from the beaker, gaining the attention of Twilight as she levitated a recorder next to her. 

"Mixing Test #25: Dreamer Rock with Leech Tears, the substances indeed react to one another. When in contact, they change into a gaseous form. More specifically, a consistent, dense type of fog or cloud with white coloration." Using a portable vacuum cleaner, Twilight caught much of the fog before sealing the beaker with a cork. "Now, moving to its reaction against a simulated living organism." 

For this experiment, Twilight used one of Rarity's mannequins, hollowed out, and covered it on a gel that simulated muscle, a layer of enchanted paper to function as skin and a fluffy scarf that could be used as fur. Injecting some of her own blood into the dummy and using a spell to recreate a functional skin-level excretory system, Twilight exposed the dummy's hoof to the smoke and started a timer. 

To her surprise, after the first-minute mark, the dummy started to sweat.

"Yes, YES! Please be it, please be it!" she started to smile and chant while collecting a sample that, to her joy, confirmed her theory. The smoke could indeed make a pony sweat blood.

"Finally! I got you!" She took her tape recorder once more while looking at the dummy, which continued to bleed like there was no tomorrow.

"My theory was correct; the murder weapon is a gas…" Her happiness suddenly stopped once she remembered the objective of the experiment and the grim reality behind it. "Prince Blue…my cousin was killed by toxic poison gas, created by mixing pulverized Dreamer Rock and the sports ointment known as Leech Tears," she finished the recording and put it away before looking back at the beaker. 

Now I know the what, and the when. But the question that remains is this; how did a pony sneak this into his room? Twilight pondered this for a moment before grabbing a feather and parchment and started to write to the Princess and her brother of her discoveries.
> Daily Family Drama (RB And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Prince Atticus never truly believed himself to be perfect, far from it. As the immediate heir to the throne, he, more than anyone, knew about the game of power. How to play it and how questionable decisions are needed and even expected when dealing with other rulers from far away. That is why he was on board with helping his sister perform her usual role as a 'friendly' princess to obtain future allies and perhaps even uncover one or two secrets to use in at a later time. No real harm was done and another friend to rely on in the dreadful case of a war with another nation, so just business as usual. 

The events that were transpiring in front of him, however, didn't seem like the typical drama in the slightest. True to the rumors, The natural maternal instincts that Princess Celestia was known for had been on the rise for the last couple of months, and he had the intention of observing and, if given the opportunity, exploiting that mentality of hers. Yet any plan he might have been formulating died a swift death once he discovered that those same instincts seemed to be contagious. Judging by the sudden change in demeanor that overcame his father who, contrary to his ordinarily chilly disposition to his sister's exploits, had now become an overprotective, worried, and dare he say, doting, parent. 

Either Equestria's parental instincts are legitimately contagious to anyone with offspring, or Princess Celestia is the greatest mind manipulator in the world. Atticus thought as he remained silent in his seat while his dad finished his little rant, ending on a sigh as he pinched the bridge of his nose.  

"This was a mistake." 

"Mistake?" Nefertiti asks in anger. "Daddy dearest, if you have just had bought me a little bit more time, Blueblood would be wrapped around my finger THIS very instant!" she yelled in anger. "What in Tartarus happened back there? I was this close to making him open up to me," she held her index and middle finger as close as possible without touching. "When you suddenly went mad with worry and instead of letting Ati and I finish the job in another room while you distracted the princess. You dragged us out of the castle the moment I reached the throne room. I barely even had the chance to say goodbye!" she whined in exasperation. "What the hell happened to the plan?" 

"It was over the moment Celestia impressed upon me how dangerous it could be for you to be outside without your guards, young lady," Atticus responded immediately. 

"You mean like the dozen guards we each have at all times hiding in the shadows to prevent exactly what you were worried about, dad? The ones that Celestia is well aware that we have, and you were supposed to remind her of them to buy Nifi the extra time she needed all along?" Prince Atticus asked rhetorically. 

"Exactly! I…" The king needed a moment before he processes what just happened this early in the morning and how Celestia's words had got inside his head. "…That little alicorn tricked me!" he yelled in anger, finally realizing what happened before smiling. "Well played, Celly." 

"Are you kidding me?!" Nefertiti facepalmed, not believing what she just heard. "You destroyed the plan just because you got played?!" 

"Hey, game recognizes game, sweetheart, a king must not be a sore loser or underestimate his opponents, take note Atticus. It will be wise for you to remember that lesson."

"Don't worry, dad, I took mental notes of everything that has happened," his son responded. 

"And besides, although it didn't end exactly as we would have liked, I wouldn't say that we failed, right Nifi?" The king asked her daughter with a raised eyebrow, who calmed down and relaxed, looking at her dad with a smile. "Yes, at the very least, I got into that pony's mind," she smirked and pulled two pictures from between her breasts, revealing a photo of Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, respectively. "Just as our intel gathered; kindness and eccentricity, A curious combination to be sure, but nothing I can't handle. I didn't even need to pull off my kindness act all. The second he saw my eyes. I was playing him like a fiddle," she boasted with pride. 

"And you figured out what type of mares Blueblood is attracted to just by studying each newspaper article he has been in recently? That is indeed one scary ability you have there sister," Prince Atticus commented, impressed by her investigation prowess. 

"Please, brother, It is nothing unusual for an actress to rehearse and study for her roles! And if one knows where and how to look, the media can be an incredible tool to discover how others think. Blueblood wasn't exactly secretive with his intentions." Taking out an old newspaper from a compartment at the door, Nefertiti admired the front page that described the prince talking about the events that changed his personality so drastically. "Such a naive, innocent pony, thinking that you had us fooled with your story of a near-death experience. Even I almost fell for it…almost!" she chuckled a little before turning to her brother. 

"After the announcement of the royal masquerade and then his self imposed exile, figuring out his personality was all too easy. After that, it only required some slight digging here and there, following the most prominent rumor and then…" Nefertiti pointed at the two ponies in the picture "…I did some light research to find my character, add a dusting off 'the charm'" She explained her eyes growing wide and for a moment as she invoked her ability for but a second. “And I was ready for my role” 

"Ha! That is my girl, always planning!" the king commented in pride "And are you sure he does not suspect anything?" 

"Him suspecting me? Ha! No male can escape my beauty once they see my eyes; that pony has no clue whatsoever. He was ready to reveal everything when his guards appeared seemingly out of nowhere," she recapped in frustration from being denied her objective when it was so close. 

"And even if he starts to get suspicious later, it won't matter anymore. After what he heard, he will not speak with the princess for a long time; I guarantee that dad," she bosted, full of confidence. 

"It hope so, honey," The king grabbed her right paw and lifted it in the air, "Otherwise we might have to return to our original agreement and put a ring on this finger, are we clear?" he warned, dropping any pleasantries and being completely serious, which in turn made Nifi gulp. 

"Crystal"  

"Good, and just so you know, in case that happens, I'm sure you would be one lovely bride. I would make sure the photographer takes plenty of pictures for our father-daughter dance." 

"DAD! Snap out of it already!" The siblings yelled at him, having heard enough of his antics 

Meanwhile back at the palace

Once the cats were gone, Celestia let go of a breath that she didn't know she was holding in exhaustion. "By the stars, I'm glad that drama is over, now..." She turns her attention to her nephew. "Might you explain what were you doing?" 

"Only if you do the same, for early in the morning, first," Blueblood countered immediately. 

"Excuse me?" Celestia looked at him in surprise before Blueblood sighed and looked at her in sadness. 

"I heard part of what you said during the meeting with the other kings, auntie," He looked back at her with determination, "I just want to hear the full story before jumping to conclusions," He took a step closer, "Please tell me you didn't use me as some sort of pawn in a game board." 

"Of course not! Wait, you spied on…!?" She collected herself and did some breathing exercises to calm herself. "Nefertiti's idea, I presume?" 

Blueblood nodded. "I'm only telling you because not doing it would be playing into that cat's game. Part of her plan is to put some distrust between us, from the looks of things." 

"Of course she would do that," Celestia just sighed in frustration before looking at him. "How much did you hear?" 

"Long enough to hear Prince Atticus suggest that I help other nations with their economic problems like I did with Manehattan…and then I heard you agree to discuss that option," His eyes hardened in anger, "now I know that all of this was just a trick from Nefertiti to make me angry at you, so that is why I want to clear the air. I want to hear the rest, and I want to know if you would be willing to use me as a pawn or not." 

"I would never do that!" Celestia yelled in anger as she approached him. "Blueblood, I'm hurt that you even considered that; I would never force you to do something against your will." She smiles and brings him into a hug. "You are my precious little nephew; sure, I did mention the possibility of your help, but what you didn't hear was that before we even consider that. We would make sure to ask you first and respect your decision, no matter what that might be. And IF you agree to do so, said help would come under your terms." She ended the hug and looked him in the eye. "Just like I said, we care about your opinion, sweetheart, and would never dismiss your voice." 

Blueblood's gaze softened upon hearing that and chuckled. "God, I'm such a moron, Nifi was playing me like a fiddle, and I ALMOST fell for her trap. It was so obvious, and yet I didn't see her tricks." 

"There is no need to punish yourself so much, dear, that lioness is a crafty little princess, You have managed to experience first hand what a master in the art of acting and manipulation can do. Even Luna and I have difficulty reading what she thinks at times, and her skill has only been improving with age," she commented with a smile "No pony would blame you for falling for her tricks," she reassured him 

"No pony but me!" he said in irritation, confusing Celestia with his sudden outburst. "If you take away the dramatics and reverse the gender, she is me. The manipulation, the skill, the sweet words. She is basically what I…" he stopped himself, taking a glance at the twins who looked at him, both appeared confused and worried "…what I used to be before the accident. I should have known better than that. For crying out loud, I was being deceived by someone who is my doppelgänger!" 

He stomps the floor in frustration. "I can't believe that the very second I lowered my guard; this happens again. I have had enough of being treated like a fool! That cat just messed with the wrong pony," he promised as his anger just kept rising more and more. 

She treated us like fools…the kitty is just asking for it…let's teach her how a wolf plays…let make her squeal! Strange thoughts keep appearing in Blueblood's mind as he started to feel his surroundings fade. 

"Blueblood stop!" the stern voice of Celestia snapped him back to reality, and he shook his head, recovering his senses and looking at her as she glared at him. "I understand that you are angry, but what you are implying is revenge, plain and simple, and that is something I would not allow in this family." Her gaze softened as she lifted his chin. "Those kinds of thoughts have been the cause of so much pain already, and you know you are better than that. Please, sweetie, promise me that you will let go of your rage against Nefertiti. When the time comes, we will deal with her together as a family, but until then, you will let go of what happened today and will stay away from that cat." 

"But…" 

"Promise me!" She repeated sternly. "I'm not joking here, mister, for the sake of your family, yourself, and our kingdom, you will stay away. It's not worth it!" 

She is also in our way…she is controlling us…she is on our way to freedom…she needs to g… 

Blueblood realized what was going on this time and, in fear, snapped himself out to reality, ignoring the voice and answering Celestia. 

"Y-Yeah, you are right, it's not worth it. I-I will let it go." Blueblood promised, recovering his composure, much to the happiness of Celestia. 

"Thank you for listening to reason, sweetie." 

"Not a problem, I mean you are right she is good, and I must applaud her skill, that performance of hers was incredible. She fooled me there for a second. But what bothers me is that there is still one thing I don't get it..." 

"What is it, dear?" Celestia asked with a raised eyebrow. 

"Once I figured out her tricks, everything fell into place pretty quickly, and it was rather obvious what she was trying to accomplish. And yet, I couldn't piece anything together until Daga and Garra put things into perspective. Before that, I was unable to think clearly; why did it take me so long to regain my senses?" he questioned himself, not understanding fully the events that occurred. 

"Sir?" Daga interrupted his train of thought while raising her right hoof. "If I'm allowed to be so bold, perhaps I could shed a reason for your behavior." 

"Really? Well, sure, go ahead, what do you have in mind." 

"Well, sir. As smart, witty, and wise as you have become in recent months…you are still a stallion," Celestia's ears perked up the second she heard that. She turned to regard Blueblood with worry. 

"And what does that have to do with…?" his eyes wide in realization. "No." 

"It's ok sir. There is nothing wrong with having those kinds of feelings. Princess Nefertiti is quite the looker," Garra commented, "And my sister's right sir: Sudden stutters, inability to think, chronic glances at her, an increase of heart rate. It checks out." 

"No, I mean that is not…how did you knew my heart rate was accelerating?" Blueblood asked with a raised eyebrow to which she only pointed at her ears.

"Improved hearing, sir, if we are too close to a pony, we can hear their heart rate when it accelerates and well …your's were doing that, especially when she pressed your face into her chest." 

"She did what now?" Celestia asked in flat surprise and anger at the princess's boldness. 

"No, I mean, I get what you are saying and understand your point, but that is not what it happened. I know what feels attraction is. I have experienced it before." 

With disastrous consequences, in each and every one of them, thank you very much, dad…although she does look a lot like a human lady, and that fur looks so soft, it makes me want to pet it and… what am I thinking! She is a cat lady for crying out loud, basically an alien! 

"And I'm telling you, I don't find Nefertiti attractive," Blueblood tried to defend himself. "Whatever happened with her might look like that, but it's not that."

"You shouldn't dismiss the possibility so fast, sir," Daga continued. "The heart can work in mysterious ways, at times in a way that we don't even realize at first glance. You can trust us. Plus princess Nefertiti is a master in manipulating others, how can we be sure she didn't try to perform a very complex and subtle form of seduction that made you pay attention to her yellow eyes?" 

"Uh Daga, her eyes are a vivid emerald," Blueblood corrected her, earning a smirk from both twins. "What?! I can catch details too." 

"Aye." 

"Look, I'm not a 14-year-old teenager, nor a pervert, I do not just get stupid each time I see a pretty face. And ok, I admit it, she is attractive…and I might have taken one or two glances at her. I'm not made of stone, but whatever happened to me, it was a completely different thing altogether." 

"Fair enough, if that is your belief, then we will respect your opinion," Celestia spoke up. "But as your aunt and a princess, I must say to please do not close your mind to that option." She approached with a sympathetic smile. "Your cousin Cadence would feel terrible if she heard you rejected such beautiful things like love and attraction. Even toward someone undeserving. A good prince is the one willing to listen, not only to the advice of others…" She placed her hoof over his chest, "…but also to his heart, so please be open to the possibility, at the very least as an option. No one would think any less of you for having those thoughts, so don't be ashamed of them." 

He sighed in defeat and rolled his eyes. "Fine, auntie, for you, I will keep it in mind as an option." He smiled while grabbing her hoof. 

"That is all I ask, take it from one with experience, bottling up your emotions only serves to hurt you and your loved ones." She took her hoof back, "Now, go clean up and wait for us in the dining hall. It's almost time to lower the sun, and there is much to discuss from this experience. I'm sure Luna would like to hear of your very first encounter with royalty outside Equestria." 

"Ha, I just wish it wasn't a total disaster," Blueblood looked to the side with some shame. 

"I wouldn't say it was a complete disaster. True you could have handled the situation better, but love can easily cloud our judgment,” she teased him a little. 

"Aunty!" 

Celestia ignored his outburst and just continued. "Plus, you encountered a particularly dangerous dignitary, so success was almost impossible from the start, and yet, despite that, you managed to figure out what was happening and made the right decision of talking with me before something bad could occur. I'm proud of you, Blueblood; you did the mature thing tonight," she praised him with a smile. 

"Thanks," Blueblood smiled and started to leave the room with his guards, "Oh, Daga and Garra!" Celestia called them out as they were about to leave. The twins turned around to see what the princess wanted to say. 

"Thank you for being there when my nephew needed you the most." 

"We were only doing our job your highness, we live to serve the crown," Garra responded as they both bowed to her. the princess nodded and then left to lower the sun. 

"Heh, looks like you two just got on my auntie's good side," Blueblood commented with a chuckle, "I knew she would eventually warm up to you two."

"Like there was any doubt, we are just that awesome," Garra boasted. "We are killing it as this bodyguard gig." 

"Just let us know if you wish to make this as a permanent job; it would be our honor to keep you in check, your highness," Daga mentions with a smile. "Speaking of which, how are you feeling right now?" 

"What do you mean?" He queried with a raised eyebrow. 

"Your heartbeat, it accelerated again back there." 

"Oh, that was probably from all the teasing," Blueblood dismissed her worries. "I'm ok now, really, but thanks for the concern, your sister is right. You are doing a fine job so far. But for now, go home and rest well, you two; you earned it." 

"Thank you, your highness. You too" The twins bowed to him before leaving as the sun descended, their signal their shift officially ended. 

Once gone, the prince went straight to his room, pausing only when he was forced to lean against the wall from exhaustion while holding his head in pain with a horn that discharged some bolts on the tip. 

'You can't ignore it, Blueblood. People like Nifi will stop at nothing to get what they want. If we let them be, they will take away what we love. We worked so hard to get this second chance. Celestia would never understand; she's too soft; what does she know about being a wolf?

"Just let it go, Blueblood, don't listen. Those are just toxic thoughts from my past. Just stupid ideas of revenge," He mumbles to himself, trying to ignore the voice until it eventually faded away. Looking around, he discovered that he somehow made a wrong turn and ended up near the royal library, where his thought process started to move again.

It never hurts to be prepared, the Abyssinian's most likely have a history. Maybe I can even learn more about those arranged marriages…see the history of their royal family. Find out how their economy wo…ooorks! No! You promised, you promised! One wrong move and I could start a war!

Once gone, he shook his head and kept walking, unaware of how the stone wall he had been leaning on was now sizzling hot from the heat of his body temperature. 

At the same time on the royal infirmary 

Putting away his equipment, Dr. Caliber was preparing to end his shift and go home when one of the blood samples he placed in a small freezer started to shake, getting his attention and then his concern when he noticed the label on said sample saying 'Blueblood.' 

"Hmmm? What in Celestia's name?" Confused, the doctor took the sample and placed a drop of it on a glass slide to examine on a microscope. Once adjusted, he was shocked when he observed the blood cells contained within changed color from red to a vivid blue, and when looking at the rest of the sample in the vial saw the same thing happening to it. Not only that but when he tried to touch it, he had to remove his hoof immediately from the heat it was emanating.  

"Oh, for the love of Celestia's mane, what now?! I tested you for everything, and you came up clean. What in Equestria are you doing now?" The doctor asked the sample as he pulled out a medicine book in search of some answers.

As Caliber kept flipping pages, Celestia received a letter from her student. Putting the final piece of a new chapter into play that the royal family will soon have to face. One that will test the unity among them, and either strengthen or break their bonds. But before that tale begins, another story, in a far and cold kingdom made of crystals, began to unravel.
> The A,B,C’s Of Emotions (RB And BS )
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Love. Hope. Empathy. Courage. These are the four pillars that have protected the Crystal Empire from the forces of evil, from Grogar to Sombra." Cadence said, dramatically demonstrating each emotion to her class by shining her body in different colors as she listed them, starting with pink, then blue, then indigo and ending with green. 

"For millennia, we attributed this power to our beloved crystal heart as the protector of our kingdom since the very first princess took the crown. Though nowadays, we know that as mighty and powerful as the heart is. It's true function is and has always been to serve as an extension and focus for the latent power that we crystal ponies, can express. This is done by converting said emotions into energy and constructs limited only by our imagination. We can guide and even share these powers with others with the help of our crystals," she ended the sentence by tapping the golden necklace she was currently wearing. Its base showed a heart divided into four pieces, each one having the corresponding color of the emotions the Princess just listed. 

All of Cadences students were also wearing copies of the same necklace, and among the students was Stellar, and Amber, who were silently taking notes of everything being said with the professionalism only a royal guard could hope to have. 

"But contrary to what you might be thinking right now, the act of converting your emotions into energy requires more than being in touch with them all of the time. Just like a river in the middle of a forest will be tainted by leaves, branches, insects, and other objects, in our natural state, our emotions too are tainted, in constant turmoil, and often, violent movement. We can even express multiple emotions simultaneously, and if you try to convert them in their raw state, it would result in just a couple of sparks at best," she continued, going into her teacher mode. "The first thing to learn when manifesting your emotions is to clear your mind and reach into your heart to control yourself and aim for just the emotion you wish to express." 

One of her current students, a stallion with white fur, raised his hoof, hoping to ask a question. He, like the royal guards, wished to understand more about the emotional spectrum for his reasons.  

"Yes, Mr. Sharp Shot?" Cadence inquired. 

"Is there no way to project two emotions simultaneously? Like love and hope or courage and hope?" he asked, honestly earning the attention of everyone in the class who were intrigued by the answer as well. This also earned a chuckle from Cadence. 

"Somepony is eager to practice the advanced spells I see," she said with a smirk. "Patience, Sharp Shot, we will come to that later on. But before we can begin with the lessons on dual emotions, you must first determine which of the four spectrums I listed is your primordial feeling," Cadence explained as best as she could before revealing a large crystal ball on her desk which was previously hidden underneath a velvet cover. "This crystal ball was made with some shards from the first crystal heart of the kingdom, and because of that, it has properties that can show what kind of feeling rules over one pony. Are you someone courageous? Maybe hopeful? Perhaps a pony full of empathy? Or maybe…" She placed her hoof on top of the crystal and in seconds, it started to shine with blinding a pink light, forcing the students to shield their eyes from the intensity "…your heart has lots of love to give," when she removed her hoof the light died down, and everyone could look at her again. 

"As I just demonstrated, I want all of you to place your hoof on top of the crystal while I take notes on the color it shines. Depending on the result, we will divide the class and start your lessons on meditation and focus appropriate with each one of them. So if you please, make an orderly line and step right up," Cadence said, levitating a parchment and feather and moving to the side so her students could approach and start to see which emotions are appropriate for them. 

Doing as instructed, a line quickly formed, and the first pony, a crystal pony filly of no more than ten, soon approached the crystal. It started to shine a sickly green, which Cadence quickly wrote down "The green light of courage; yours is the will to overcome great fear and willing to stand your ground even if afraid," Cadence announced in happiness. "That is an emotion that speaks volumes of your bravery and tells that you would do anything to protect your beliefs and your friends." 

"That's right, Princess!" the filly confirmed eagerly. "I will fight the bad guys, just like you did!" she hoof-pumps the air in determination-making Cadence chuckle at the adorable scene.

"I'm sure you will sweetie, but you must never forget not to lose focus and remember the difference between determination and foolishness, alright?" 

"I promise, Princess." 

"Ok, now since your emotion is green, your lessons will continue on the royal training grounds. Don't worry. We are not going to treat you like a soldier or anything like that. It's just that courage can be explained and learned more easily if you had plenty of space to work with," Cadence said before pointing at a corner. "For now, why don't you wait there for the rest of your future companions so you can all go there?" 

"Ok, Princess," the filly obediently complied, and soon another crystal pony, a colt of twelve shyly approached the crystal.

"It ok little one, the crystal is not going to bite you, I promise," the Princess encouraged him, yet the colt simply averted his eyes before looking behind him. 

"Do we need to show everypony what emotion we have, Princess?" he asked with some heat on his cheeks. 

"Oh, sweetie, there is no shame in expressing yourself. Part of the objective of this school is giving you the strength to be proud of what you are, and the tools to create great things," she encouraged him while raising her wings before getting a bit closer to him to whisper. "But I also know that each of us expresses ourselves at our own time, would you like me to shield your results for now? You don't even need to go into a group right away, just follow your results as soon as everyone else is sorted. Will that be ok with you?" 

The colt nodded, and soon, the Princess covered them with a transparent bubble that made them invisible for the rest, giving the horse the privacy he wanted as he touched the crystal. Immediately afterward, an intense indigo light shone from it. "The indigo light of empathy, yours is the emotion of concern for your friends and mercy to all," Cadence whispered to the colt, moved by the emotion. "It's an incredibly beautiful emotion, being capable of having compassion to give, and such a strong showing at that." 

"Princess..." the colt was unable to make eye contact with her due to the embarrassment of the compliment. 

"Oh, alright, I'll stop now, and as I promised, you don't need to form a group right away, just wait at your desk until another indigo light appears, then join them when you are ready. Your training ground will be the animal shelter." 

"We're going to work with puppies!?" the colt asked, getting more excited, which earned a smile from Cadence. 

"Indeed," her smile soon dropped. "Some pets there spend days, even weeks without anyone taking second glances at them, or are too aggressive to let anyone approach. Of course, we will never let you near the most aggressive ones right away, but the truth of the matter is that they deserve and need some compassion and affection, do you think you could do that for me, dear?" 

The colt nodded, happier now. "You can count on me, princess," he placed his hoof on his chest before moving on. To the surprise of the Princess, instead of going to take a seat, he went into another corner before nodding at her. 

There you are, I knew you had it you 

After nodding as well, she passed to the next student, none other than Sharp Shot, who, after giving her a short bow, placed his hoof on the crystal, which immediately shined a bright pink, much to the surprise of Cadence. "Mr. Sharp Shot, you've been holding out on me, haven't you?" she asked with a smirk and a raised eyebrow. 

In response, he only shrugged his shoulders with a smile. "What can I say, your highness? A pony must love what he does. And I'm a fanatic for the archery sport!" 

"I can tell as much," Cadence nodded with a smile. "Love is an emotion that has so many different expressions and whose power is said to be that which can conquer all. Yours is an emotion of passion and full devotion to your heart. So much so that I advise caution when using it. It can easily blind you if not careful." 

"Literally or metaphorically?" Sharp asked with a hint of concern. 

"Metaphorically," Cadence confirmed with some heat on her checks. "Let's just say one time, while experimenting with the emotion,  I ended up acting like a cat on catnip. Couldn't stop hugging everything I saw." She confessed with some embarrassment.

"Must have been a very awkward experience," Sharp commented at her tale as Cadence only nodded. "Oh, you can be sure of that, but don't worry, my husband, the incredibly resourceful stallion that he is. Manage to contain the situation like a professional, and clear the air almost immediately, so other than some apologies and explanation with our staff who was on duty that day, nothing bad happened. And it served as a lesson not to underestimate the power of love." 

Cadence finished getting more even red on her cheeks. "Anyway, since your emotion is love, it could be reasoned that as the Princess of Love, I will look after your lessons," she points at herself. "We'll work first in the castle. But as we progress, we will be moving locations. And that goes for everyone. The determined location I tell you is a starting point, not a fixed one," she announced. 

"And I will eagerly await our lessons, your highness," he gives her a courteous bow before going into another corner and to allow for the selection to continue.  

One by one, the rest of the students took turns to determine their emotions, and groups start to form with blue being the only one yet to appear. Until finally, Amber and Stellar were left as the only ones to find their emotions. Looking at one another, the two nodded and approached the table, ready to see what color awaited. The moment Stellar touched the orb, the entire room was bathed in an intense red light, which frightened everyone. And when she moved away and let Amber do the same, the same result happened, catching Sharp Shot's attention. 

"Princess, what does the red mean?" the filly who had gone first asked, raising her hoof, but rather than answer Cadence only sighed and looked to both of the guards.

"Stellar, Amber, would you mind waiting outside the room while I finish the class?" 

"As you wish, your highness," Amber nodded, and both were excused from the room, so Cadence continued her lesson. 

After that was done, everyone headed to their designated 'classroom,' with another professor covering for Cadence's class. The Princess called for the guards again while sitting behind her desk, with two chairs in front of her. 

"Close the door," she instructed Stellar the moment they entered, she did as told before they both took a seat. With a sigh, the Princess shook her head in disappointment. "I going to be blunt with you both. When Shining Armor told me that you wanted to take some courses in our school. I had my reservations." she looked back at them with pity. "From the stories he has told me, the implication of being a Celestial Centurion most likely implies that becoming desensitized was inevitable. Part of me thought you wouldn't be able to express any emotion whatsoever after what you have experienced." 

She then looked at the orb. "Now I see that what I was imagining is nothing compared to what I just saw." she looked back at them with disappointment. "I'm not going to scold you from being angry, it is a legitimate and valid emotion to have, and after what happened in the Masquerade, I more than understand; goodness, I was in attendance that night, seeing what happened. Instead, I'm going to ask why neither of you have been using the facilities my husband told you to use when you entered?" 

"Your highness with all due respect, there is no time for Stellar and I to put a halt on our training while a maniac is running free in the world." Amber answered. "The faster we learn how the emotion spectrum works, the faster the…" 

"…you would repeat what happen in Canterlot!" Cadence snapped back before Amber could finish, before pinching the bridge of her nose. "This is exactly why I wanted the anger spectrum banned from the school." 

"Princess, you can't do that, rejecting anger is like rejecting your horn; it is a part of yourself!" 

"A part that makes us aggressive, blind, and beyond reasoning," Cadence pressed on. "Do not press my patience nor forget your position, soldier," Cadence finally said, dropping any form of honorific and looking at them with a glare. "I'm fully aware that anger is a part of us; there is nothing wrong in expressing it when the situation requires, but what you are implying is teaching kids to be angry. CHILDREN for pony's sake Amber, do I need to tell you why that's the worst idea imaginable?" 

"No, ma'am," Amber responded as both she and Steller looked down in shame. Cadence only sighs and stood up before approaching the two. 

"Listen, no pony is blaming you for what you did that night. You were just one more victim of that assassin. I, more than anyone, can comprehend that. But what this anger is doing to you... It's forcing you to endure pain. It poisons you, plain and simple. If you wish to capture that criminal, fine by me, you have my blessing. If you want to learn about the emotional spectrum to counter his magic, my school and its doors are always open. Though if you expect to gain my help, it will be under my rules and my conditions. Am I crystal clear?" 

"Yes, your highness," Amber answered as Stellar simply nodded. 

"Look, I understand that this is difficult, I'm still angry for a lot of the things that happened that night, but you don't see me letting that emotion rule me, right?" she said with a quick smile. "And you know why? Because I didn't let my pride get the better of me, and I sought the help that I needed," she levitated a piece of paper and a feather and wrote down a direction and a name. "This is the name of a professional who had even helped my aunt Celestia in the past. If you truly wish to continue at my school, I beg of you, seek him out, and talk about your problems. Let go of your anger, and we will try the test again. Ok?" 

"But the criminal…" 

"The finest soldiers in Equestria are scouring the lands for him; if they can track down the likes of Discord, I'm sure they will know if he steps hoof on Equestrian soil again. Please, nothing good will come from rushing things. Just take it one step at a time. Show me that you don't let your pride control you either, let me see the mares my husband admires so much truly shine before my eyes." 

The guards looked at one another before sighing in defeat and taking the paper. "We will, your highness, for the safety of our crown, for the pride of the Celestials... and for our fans." 

"Good. I will let this hiccup pass this time but it better not repeat itself, remember our motto; 'No fear, no anger, would enter this room,'" Cadence reminded them as they nodded 

"We will keep that in mind, your Highness." 

"Good, you are dismissed for the rest of the day then." Both mares were preparing to leave while Cadence checked some papers on her desk. "Also, just so you know, if you wish to counter the emotion of anger, you would need the spectrum of hope…keep that it in mind," she tells them without looking up, causing both mares to stop from a moment before resuming their march.

"Thank you, princess Mi A…thank you Cadence," Amber finally thanked her, dropping the honorific as they take their leave, and both took a glance at the letter the Princess had given them. 

"Dr. Wolf? Have you ever heard of him?" Amber asked her partner, but she only shook her head. "Well, he must be good if even the Princess of Love recommended him." She sighed and looked down, "I can't believe we are going through this mess again just to catch a criminal." 

Amber confessed, not looking forward to their visit with a psychologist until Stellar placed her hoof on her shoulder and smile.

"Yeah, I know, for the prince, right?" 

Her friend nodded and removed her hoof 

"For the prince, it is then, just doesn't expect me to do the talking, this is on you now Star" She half-joked, earning a light shove from her friend as they both shared some laughs while heading to their rooms. 

Stellar, took the paper to memorize the directions, which to their luck wasn't too far from the castle. Such was their concentration that neither noticed the silhouette of a stallion watching them from afar. 

Hmmm, now this might be promising. The pony thought out loud before retreating into the shadows.
> Sin Of A Singer (RB, KTK And BS )
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


With Special Guest Dr. Wolf! 


As the first rays of sunlight bathed the halls of the crystal empire, a short bipedal wolf with white fur was finishing his preparations to receive a particularly odd client. He was quite a sight, with his colors transitioning from white to grey to dark black at the tip of his tail. The same gradient marked his nose, on which a small set of glasses rested. The eyewear was coupled with a dark purple vest on top of a formal white shirt with the sleeves tucked in, and a matching light purple tie with some black shorts. He waited, standing in one of the receiving rooms of the crystal castle. His services had been requested by none other than the Princess herself. And he, Dr. Wolf, therapist and psychologist extraordinaire, was now waiting for two friends of the royalty.

The good Doctor didn't mind that much, quickly accepting the offer. He loved to help others in their time of need, and also, the payment the Princess was kind enough to give as a bonus was just too enticing to let the opportunity pass. Not to mention that this presented a perfect opportunity to try out his new therapy incense, made from carefully selected crystal flowers picked by none other than Mistmane.

Yet, as the final dampening stone was put in place and the Doctor returned to his chair to pick the specially made sound-canceling earplugs, given to him alongside the note with all the instructions that needed to be followed to the letter, he couldn't for the life of him figure out why one of his patients requested such extreme conditions for their session. Even for a soldier, this looked a to be a tad bit excessive, but for the sake of keeping his patient comfortable, he was willing to play along and hope that with time she would explain why so many precautions were necessary.

His train of thought was soon broken by a couple of knocks on the door, which signaled the arrival of his first patient.

"Come in," the Doctor instructed. Soon the door opened, revealing none other than Stellar. With a stern gaze, she marched right into the room and started to look around. 

"Oh, good morning. You must be my first patient. Stellar, right?" Rather than answer, the mare in question began to poke all the dampening rocks in the room before whistling at them, resulting in them vibrating for a second before killing the sound almost immediately.

"Oh yes of course, just as requested, the entire room has been placed in three layers of sound-canceling magic barriers. I put the sound dampening crystals on the corners of the room and an emergency teleportation circle underneath my chair if anything fails," he explained as Stellar went on to check every precaution he had just listed. Once satisfied, she looked back at Doctor Wolf and then pointed at her ears.

"What? Oh! Right, I have the sound canceling plugs right here, do you want…" He was about to offer them to her, but she only shook her head and moved them back to him. "You want me to wear them?" 

She nodded a couple of times in response. 

"But then I won't be able to hear you." 

"Y–You will," Stellar replied in a barely audible whisper, "Please," she insisted, looking at him straight on the eyes. With a defeated sigh, the Doctor finally decided to comply and put them on. 

"Is this better?" 

"Much, thanks for understanding doctor," Stellar finally spoke, a bit louder this time to the surprise of Dr. Wolf.

"What the…how can I hear you better now?" 

"Those are not complete noise-canceling plugs, Doctor. They are adjusted so you can hear me on a frequency only bats can hear," she explained, and indeed the explanation held when the Doctor tried to listen without the plugs; he couldn't hear a single thing despite Stellar speaking. 

"It was the only way I can be sure you'd be safe," Stellar confessed in shame, "I hope this isn't a problem, I just don't want to hurt anyone by accident." 

"It's ok, and I'm willing to accept your conditions if it helps you feel more comfortable. Though it just makes me wonder, are you that afraid of your own voice?" Dr. Wolf inquired with sadness as the poor mare only nodded in shame.

"Ever since I hit puberty. In a way, it also why I am so mad with the pony that tried to kill the Prince," she explained before taking a seat on a couch while Dr. Wolf went to sit in a high backed chair next to her.

"Sounds like it was hard growing up, why don't you tell me about it? Tell me about how your childhood was?" 

Steller sighed and laid down on the couch. "Well, I suppose you could say that it was far from normal, but then again, that is to be expected when your mom is a siren," she explained, before standing up to grab a bit of her fur near her neck — pulling it back slightly so the Doctor could see an actual gill, which was hidden underneath. "And yes, they are functional, which means I'm kind of an amphibious pony that can breathe underwater," she mentioned with a small hint of pride and a smile on her face. 

"Fascinating, this is the first time I have seen a pony displaying the attributes of a sea pony from her mother's side of the family." 

Stellar only shook her head at that. "My mom isn't a sea pony, but I understand the confusion. Ponies frequently have a hard time noticing the difference," Stellar corrected, "A sea pony and a siren are like a unicorn and a pegasus, both equines but different species."  

"Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to offend." 

"None taken, but as I said, it happens all the time. So you can have a better reference, the sea ponies lived in Seaquestria, and their hooves are fins, not to mention that the ones on their backs are thinner and smaller. Sirens have actual frontal hooves, and their fins are much larger and bulkier which allow flight. Normally they lived in the northern, colder regions of the world and don’t interact much with the outside, which is why the information about them is a tad limited…and of course; there is also their singing power. You are probably familiar with the infamous story about those three sirens." 

"I have heard of the story, yes," the Doctor gave a small nod.

"Just know that those three don't represent the rest of the species, they were just criminals with a thirst for power and disregarded the gift we sirens have," Stellar was quick to answer with slight but present anger, most likely from experience. "Anyways, back to my story. Like other sirens, my mom had one incredible magical voice, and the thing she loved to do the most was to sing. So when sailors navigated near her territory, she often sang to them to help them navigate through the most dangerous parts of the ocean, using a bit of mild mind control while doing so, but she never abused her abilities in the end. It was during one of her many sessions when she found my dad, a now ex-pirate named Kid North Star, who, like mom, loved to sing more than anything in the world. According to them, the harmony of their duet was so cute that stars danced around them," Stellar recalled with fondness before giggling. "Of course that is probably an exaggeration, but that is more or less how they met, fell in love and eventually settled down in a little house near the coast of Prance where they had my older sister, Delfy Star." 

"Sounds like one incredible love st…sto…wait a minute! did…did you just say Delfy Star? As in the Prance Pearl of the ocean? The famous star of the world of jazz, the sea pony Delfy Star?"

"The same," Stellar confirmed with a nod. "As you can see, I look after my dad while Delfy was closer to mom, and yes before you ask, our mom is Aurora Borealis, are you familiar with her work as well?" 

"Am I? I'm a big fan of her! The opera songs she has performed, I even use some of her recordings with some of my sessions. Her voice is one of the most heavenly things I have ever heard!" he gushed with great excitement. 

"Yep, sounds like mom, she never stopped singing. And as you can imagine, that voice got the attention of the neighbors, then the mayor, then other towns and before we knew it, mom and dad started performing for the richest of audiences of the day, and my sister soon joined in the fun too. I always tried my best, too, but…" 

She sighed before looking down. "But then puberty happened, and everything changed forever." 

"What exactly happened?" 

"It was during a school performance. Like the rest of my family, I had this dream of performing on stage and singing with my family, as Alouette Star, the best singer of the world," she recalled, moving her hoof from side to side. "A silly dream of a delusional thirteen-year-old little filly."

"Why that name?" 

"It was the name given to me before I changed it out of shame. You see, Doctor, when I was born, I thought I only inherited the gills and my mom's eyes while my sister got the horn and eyes of my dad…turns out that of the two, only I inherited the voice of a siren." 

"Oh dear, you mean…" D. Wolf looked at her in surprise as he covered his mouth when she nodded. 

"It happened so fast, and I was too engrossed in my singing to notice, but when I came of age, the siren side of me made itself known to the audience and put the entire school in a trance." 

"It forced their bodies to dance on my command. At first, I thought that my singing was just that good until my mom saw what was happening and used her singing to break the spell. Thank the stars they were in the audience." 

"Only that stopped me from causing any more damage. That was by far the darkest day of my life, and it just got worse from there," Stellar mentioned as she closed her eyes and cleaned a single tear from her left eye.

"The next day, they took me to see an expert, and he confirmed our fears. Since I'm not a full-fledged siren, my vocal cords can't exactly turn off the siren voice, and what's worse, I don't even need to be singing to use it. Just one word could be enough to influence the minds of others, and if I'm not constantly restraining my voice, it can happen at any moment without warning whether I desire it or not. Do you know what that means for a singer, Doctor? A true singer puts their soul and heart into a performance. Being forced to stay conscious of your voice means never being able to hit a single note with emotion. The dream of a silly teenage filly was shattered that day," Stellar finished while holding back tears. "That's why I decided to simply not talk and why I asked you for all these precautions. I don't want to hurt ponies simply by talking…I don't want to recreate that incident ever again." She then pointed to different parts of the room.

"You asked me if I'm afraid of my voice earlier? Well, the truth is that during those years, I lived every day absolutely terrified of it." she admitted with shame. "That is why I enrolled in the royal army, or rather, it was the solution that I came up with after my parents asked Princess Celestia for help. Such unique abilities were too good to let go to waste, and both her and my parents thought that with the proper guidance, I could find a way to control my powers. Maybe I could find a way to speak regularly again, and back then, I was so scared that I would hurt anyone that I was willing to try anything." 

"And that is when you decided to enroll in the school of gifted unicorns. So you could have a better understanding of your powers, right?" 

Stellar nodded. "Or to remove them altogether if necessary." 

" I beg your pardon?" Dr. Wolf asked in alarm.

"I know, I know, that is a terrible thing to think about, but I was afraid, young, and naive. I wasn't thinking much back then. So out of a whim and not wanting to get any sort of attention from the shame of what happened, I changed my name to 'Stellar' and enrolled in her school, not uttering a single world for three whole years. Those were the hardest of times, and thankfully Princess Celestia, bless her soul, stayed with me the entire time, and together we found temporary solutions that allowed me to talk. A couple of words here, talking in whispers, she even taught me hoof language, so I didn't have to talk much. All the while, we studied together on how to understand my condition better. And that was when I embarked on a new adventure to find a new dream for myself." 

"Don't you miss being able to sing?" 

"Oh, of course, I do. I have had many dreams where I can perform on stage once more, at least one last time," she sighed, wallowing in self-pity for a bit as she looked down. "I suppose that is one of the few regrets that still lingers in my heart. But the new dream I managed to achieve has helped me find inner peace and purpose in my life. All thanks to an event that helped me realize that I wanted to be a royal guard." 

"Really? What happened?" 

"It was during one of my daily meditation sessions in the park, at the suggestion of the Princess, I started to embrace Tai-Chi and inner reflection to better calm my mind and soul. During that time, I heard the voices of guards chasing a thief not too far from where I was. All of a sudden, I listened to a mare and filly scream in fear. I opened my eyes in horror to see how in the act of desperation, the brute took the filly as a hostage and was currently pressing a knife on the poor girl's neck to keep the guard's far from him. When it appeared that the crook was going to get away, I saw the tears in the filly's eyes, and for some reason, she looked directly at me and mouthed a sentence that changed my life forever. 

'Help me.'" 

Stellar closed her eyes, remembering the event in her mind before looking back at the Doctor. 

"The next thing I knew, I was rushing toward them, and for one second, I forgot my fears and restraint as I used my siren voice for the second time in my life to say 'Stop!' The expression of utter confusion on the thief's face was simply priceless. What's better was when I gave the command to let her go, I discovered that somehow I managed to target only the burglar and not the filly who rushed to her mom almost immediately," she smiled at the memory as she grabbed her left hoof.

"Both her and her mom hugged me so tight out of gratitude. I feared that they would never let me go, and at that moment, I felt happy once again. My powers helped an innocent individual instead of hurting them. I could use it to protect, to keep others safe, To be a guardian instead of a threat, and I knew that if I could refine it, even more, no civilian would ever be harmed as long as I had something to say about it." she continued with not a small amount of pride.

"The next day, I left the school and requested the Princess to put me in the royal guard program. It was quite a shock for both her and my family when I told them about it. But…they ultimately let me go when they saw me smiling again. From there, the rest is history. I rose through the ranks and got a better understanding of my powers. I fought against those that abused theirs. That is why I am so angry at that assassin; he doesn't care that he hurts others, and used his gifts as he pleased, causing suffering and pain wherever he goes. Seeing ponies doing that reminds me of what I once did, and that's enough to make my blood boil." 

"Is it now?" Dr. Wolf asked with a raised eyebrow. 

"What do you mean, doctor?" Stellar was confused by his question.  

"Well, Stellar, I'm happy that you found a purpose in life and discovered a way to use your powers to protect the innocent, but are you truly happy with how things are right now? Sure, your life might appear comfortable, but have you ever tried speaking normally again?" 

"Why would I do that? I have Amber for that; she's my friend, and she knows me so well that there is no need for me to say anything to anyone. She would gladly speak for the two of us, and I'm grateful to her for that." 

"But, Stellar, that is not a solution, that is an excuse." Dr. Wolf argued back, "Choosing not to speak and letting others do the talking doesn't solve the problem; it just postpones it. Plus you said it yourself, your dream of singing is still there, will you truly be happy with yourself never trying to sing again?" 

"Of course, I will…it just that I already know that it's impossible," she looked quite shamefaced when she gave this admission, "And what does that have to do with my anger with the assassin?" 

"I think the seed of your anger is not necessarily directed at the assassin but rather at yourself." 

"What?"

"Well think it of it this way, putting aside the fact that this criminal is hurting others. Like yourself, this pony clearly is showing a gift of his that Equestria has never seen before. But where you hide it and restrain yourself, he parades it around with pride. Having such confidence in himself and what he can do, doesn't that make you feel a bit…jealous?" 

"Of course not!" 

"Well then let's do a little experiment, close your eyes for a moment." 

She did as she was instructed.

"Ok, now let us use our imagination for a bit. Try to picture a complete theater packed full with ponies enjoying the performance of a mare singing her heart out." 

"Ok?" 

"Now imagine that this mare is a pegasus, but not an ordinary pegasus, since she is half Kirin, and can ignite her body as she sings." 

"What?" Stellar's eyes shot open with alarm.

"Interesting, tell me why the idea of another pony having a situation similar to yours scare you so much?" 

"It just feels…unnatural, and dangerous, what if she burns someone in the audience?" 

"And what if she doesn't? How does that make you feel?" 

"I don't want to think about it." 

"Fair enough, let's try again, this time a stallion, a firefighter. Just a regular unicorn…with the dragon's scales of his mom, making him impervious to fire and very resistant to falling debris, which makes him perfect for the job, he is good at it, and what is more, he loves it. Because he loves his job, helping others." 

"I suppose," Stellar replied. The mare was doing an abysmal job of hiding her growing irritation.

"Ok, let's try it this time with someone you know then, someone that has proven to be a nice pony to others, I want you to picture Blueblood, nothing special, just picture him in your head, you got it?" 

She nodded in response.

"Now picture him as his alter ego and tell me what you feel." 

"I feel…I feel…anger?" Stellar opened her eyes in surprise as she holds her chest. "Why? I…I don't get it, and he is kind. A bit brash but with a good heart, he treats Amber and I with respect and kindness why…why all of the sudden when I picture him as Blood Moon I feel like this, it's like I…I feel jealous?" she realized in a moment of dawning cognition as Dr. Wolf nodded a bit smugly.

"See? It looks like the root of your anger goes deeper than just protecting others." 

"What should I do, Doctor Wolf? How do I get rid of that?" 

"You don't have too, and there is nothing wrong with feeling envious of others. Letting it control you, letting it twist into anger or violence, now that is a problem. What you must do is use those emotions as an opportunity to improve yourself. See those more successful than you as inspiration and guide. Find out what they did that helped them reach the place where they are now. And of course be happy for their success, because chances are, they must have worked as hard as you to reach the top," Dr. Wolf told his patient firmly.

"Thank you, Doctor." 

"My pleasure, and well, it looks like our time is almost up. I'm glad we managed to achieve so much in one session, I would love to have another one, but that is completely up to you. What do you say? Maybe the next one we won't require the earplugs?" 

"It's not going to be that easy, Doctor…but I wouldn't mind talking a bit more. Telling you about my problems helps; I feel like a weight has been lifted off my back," Stellar mentioned with a smile as she got up. "I will inform you when I can schedule another session, is that ok with you?" 

"As long as you give me some weeks in advance, I wouldn't mind," Dr. Wolf said with a shrug. 

"In that case, I will try to keep in touch, Doctor. Until then, thank you for your help," She nodded and marched toward the door as Dr. Wolf takes out his earplugs with a sigh.

Well, now that was one incredible backstory, poor mare. I hope she finds a way to overcome her self-imposed mutism. He mused to himself in pity, watching the door close, with a smile. Putting his right paw on his chest he takes a deep breath to clear his mind with his eyes close before opening them again "It good to be helping" He voice out loud to no one in particular before picking a clipboard. 

Ok then, let's see who is next on the list? Hmm, Amber. Ah, and it seems that she only requested…a punching bag? Dr. Wolf re-read the condition asked before groaning internally. 

This is going to be one of those sessions, I just know it.
> Amber's Core (RB, KTK And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I still can't believe it," Commander Hurricane exclaimed out loud. At this time, she and Amber admired a mural displaying King Sombra's head terrorizing the crystal empire as they waited for the return of Stellar from her session with Dr. Wolf. "That colt grew up just to do all that damage?" 

"I'm sorry, Commander, but that's how things ended up. Once he assumed the throne, King Sombra didn't waste any time in turning the kingdom into a dictatorship, one so big and dangerous that it risked the peace of all Equestria. The royal sisters didn't have any choice but to intervene and put a stop to it." 

"You realize that that only makes things more uncomfortable for me, right? I saw that tyrant as a baby, for pony's sake! I held him in my hooves! And he didn't exactly have a difficult childhood; what could have happened that made him do all of this?" 

Amber could only shrug in response, "No pony can predict the future, ma'am. Things sometimes simply happen. Having a nice childhood doesn't guarantee that you will choose right from wrong, correct? Growing up with too much privilege can lead to the risk of making you too prideful." 

"Yeah, you're right," Hurricane nodded with a sigh, "I just think it's sad, poor Penumbra. The stars know how ashamed she would be if she had seen her child become that monster."

"Such can be the cruelty of fate, madam," the voice of Sharp Shot alerted both mares as he made his way towards them before giving them a short bow. "Please excuse me, I didn't mean to eavesdrop on your conversation," he apologized with a small smile. "I just wanted to speak with you; after all, it's not every day when someone has the opportunity of meeting not only a member of the most elite of security forces in the world but also one of the founders who are credited with the creation of Equestria itself. I believe saying that 'it's an honor' is entirely lacking in describing my joy right now." 

"And we certainly appreciate the praise, Sir Sharp Shot," Amber acknowledged him with a calm and professional voice. "Although I'm afraid you are praising us a bit too much. We only did our job as defenders of Equestria and its relationships with the rest of the world. A feat which you have contributed to in no small amount. The weaponry and armor your family business has donated to the crown over the years have been of great use." 

"Oh please, Miss Amber, there is no need for such formalities. After all, although retired, I also served the crown." 

"I'm aware of that, yes. Ten years of service as a royal guard, five as a Wonder Bolt, and two as a drill sergeant before retiring and taking control of your family's arms manufacturing business," Amber listed, earning the attention of Hurricane. 

"You have read my file, I'm touched," Sharp Shot confessed, bringing his right hoof toward his chest.

"And I'm impressed," she said with a smile, "Royal Guard, Wonderbolt, Drill Sergeant…all with not a single visible scar on you," she mentions while inspecting his body. "Either battles here have gotten soft, or you have become a fast learner on the field Rusty" She nicknamed him with a smirk. 

"Or I was simply luckier than the bastard who was on the other side of my blade," he remarked with a smirk of his own. "Just as you always told your troops, twice as fast…" 

"…Or a blade to your eye," she finished the expression with a chuckle. "So you have read about me, too, eh?" 

"Of course I did, I don't believe there is a single pegasus on the force that doesn't know the tale of Commander Hurricane, the matriarch of the military forces of Equestria and teacher of the sky. Meeting a legend such as yourself could be enough to make the child in me to do a backflip." 

"Heh, OK, Rusty enough with the kiss ass, didn't you say there was something you wanted to talk about it? Or was that just an excuse to approach us and ask for an autograph?" she asked with a raised eyebrow, making him chuckle. 

"Oh, if only it could be both, but you are right. I had the intention of speaking with you, particularly my classmate," he said, looking at Amber, "About the incident with the assassin some time ago." 

"And what pray tell, would you like to talk about Sir? That is a particularly sensitive subject," she asked with suspicion, taking a step closer. 

"I just want to collaborate in the apprehension of the perpetrator, I assure you. But I was hoping that I could talk with you and your partner about it." 

"She is busy at the moment." 

"A real shame, perhaps at another time then. I'm sensing that our interests are the same, and my help could be of use in your mission," he said before giving them a polite bow. "I will be near the savior statue if you wish to speak with me. Until then, good day miladies." He waved them goodbye while marching away, Amber still keeping an eye on him until he disappeared. 

"What do you make of him, soldier?" Hurricane asked in a severe tone. 

"I'm not completely sure, ma'am, I didn't detect any form of hostility or deception on his posture or voice. He seems legitimately interested in helping us arrest that criminal, plus despite being an extremely influential noble, I don't sense any form of manipulation from his part. Other than the possibility of using Stellar and I to promote some new creation of his. He is, after all, a business stallion." 

"I'm detecting a 'but' coming up." 

"…But something about him just doesn't feel right. I can't exactly put my hoof on it, but my gut is telling me to be on alert when around him." 

"Good instincts; mine assessment is the same. I have only met a hoof full of stallions who have as many titles as he has, and none of them were as calm and collected as he is after that. Sure, that was before we had psychologists on the force, but that only goes so far. With such a dangerous and violent lifestyle we lived, maintaining that degree of calm, especially when deciding to move from one force to another, can come across as a bit unnerving for me. Either that guy has one of the best psychologists on Equestria that help him with his PTSD, or he's hiding something," she mentions, unsure of what to make out of him. "I will keep an eye on him if that helps you." 

"You would do that, ma'am?" Amber looked at Hurricane in surprise, earning a shrug out of her. "Sure, I mean, it's not like I have anything else to do. Besides, Rusty there is a fan, so I bet it would make his day if I spent the day with him," she said with a chuckle. "I will let you know if I find anything else, but for now, isn't it about time for your appointment?" 

"Indeed, Stellar must be wrapping things up now. Thanks, Commander." 

"Don't mention it. Now off you go before that wolf guy chews your ear off for being late."

"Will do, ma'am." Amber gives her a salute, and both mares went in different directions.

After a short walk, the mare found her companion marching toward her with a small skip in her step and a smile on her face, earning a smirk from Amber. "Do I even need to ask how it went?" Amber asked her friend, who was too absorbed in her mind to notice her until she spoke, earning a small 'eep' and jump backward on her part. 

"I will take that as a no," Amber replies before chuckling at her friend's antics, earning a roll of the eyes from Stellar, yet her smile never faltered. 

"It helped me get things into perspective." When Amber heard that, it was her turn to do a double-take as she stopped laughing to see her friend in complete shock.

"Did-Did you just say a whole sentence...out loud?" 

Her friend just feigned ignorance as she looked away. "Sure, now you decide to go back to normal," Amber grunted in frustration before smiling again. "Been a long time since you got that confident, the doc must be just that good at his job." 

Stellar nodded eagerly at her question with a smile of her own. 

"Well, as long as it helps us speed things up here," Amber shrugs before both mares see a couple of stallions passing through carrying a punching bag and heading to Dr. Wolf's room. Immediately Stellar knew what was going on and looked at her friend with a raised eyebrow.

"What? You know me, I can't talk much about my past without punching something. You have your way of relaxing, and I got mine," she defended herself before continuing to see Doctor Wolf. "See you later, Star! Oh, and the Commander is trying to dig up information on a creepy fan of ours that claims that he can help us with our mission, in case you want to take a look at that as well," she informed her without looking. Stellar nodded a couple of times before going to enjoy the rest of the day, her mind still plagued with questions and thoughts that needed to be addressed before doing anything else. 

Once the accommodations were installed, Amber entered the room where Dr. Wolf was waiting, and right next to the sofa, just as she wanted, was a punching bag ready to be used. "Nice," she nods while inviting herself in.

"Ah, you must be Amber, correct?" 

"That's me, and I see you got my request. Thanks, Doc, this baby will make things easier for me," she said with a smile as she inspected the equipment. "When talking about my feelings, I like to let off some steam while doing so. It helps me stay at peace; I hope this doesn't bother you, Doc." 

"Not at all, we all have our methods of relaxation, and I had seen this one before…ah, just don't ask me to hold the bag while you hit or buck it, please," he mentions her with a hint of fear in his voice. 

"Nah, relax, this is for talking, not training. I will just be hitting it at random, so just a fair warning before we begin, I have a bit of a temper so that I might yell here or there." 

"I will keep it in mind."

"OK then, fire away. What do you want to know, Doc?" 

"Why don't we start by telling something about yourself, maybe your past or how your childhood was?" 

"Oh my childhood, that is quite the story, alright," Amber said with a sigh as she approached the bag until she stood right in front of it, then closed her eyes to reminisce. "My childhood is not something as spectacular as what Stellar most likely told you about, but it wasn't a walk in the park either. Being the next in line of two long lineages of royal guards, serving the crown since before Nightmare Moon, you could imagine that my future was kind of set in stone. Introductions to self-defense training at year five, discipline lessons at eight, extended history lessons of Equestria at ten, the introduction to weapon training at thirteen...you get the picture," she said in shame before getting angry throwing two jabs at the punching bag. 

"I never had any control over my life, growing up. I was just another piece on the board. My future was set; my education was planned, my entire fucking life! Set in a suit of neat and shiny armor, ready to smoother the ever-living daylights out of me!" She yelled in an outburst as she kept saying, "' We are only doing what is best for you, Amber!' 'Your parents know best!' 'You better not disappoint your family!' 'On your shoulders rest more than 100 generations of pristine and noble guards!' 'Heavens forbid you to think on your own!'" She wailed, making out the voices of her parents as she hit the bag over and over in a rage until she calmed down and took break to breathe "My parents…the on-so-lovable yet strict unicorns that they were, always with something to say, always pushing me to my limits, always expecting me to be the perfect toy soldier! And I, the little six-year-old filly that I was, just bought all of their shit and only nodded and smiled while they kept working on their life project that was my childhood" She sniffed and held back tears, as one of her frontal hoofs trembled. "It was a freaking miracle that I didn't simply snap and slit their throats while they were sleeping." 

She confessed in a fit of anger before her eyes widen and she looked back at Dr. Wolf who was getting increasingly, more concerned and scared of what she was saying 

"By the stars!" That is the only thing the doctor could say, shocked for what he just heard. "That is…that is horrible! No kid should live that! The idea alone is just inhumane!" 

"Don't worry! Nothing happened; everything was solved; things never escalated that far!" She quickly and rapidly in an attempt to ease the tension on the room 

"Everything was solved? Amber, they conditioned you to be a soldier! That is no way of living. I can't even picture how any pony could function after that sort of treatment!" 

"Yeah, I know!" She agreed with a nod, "I was this close to being placed in an orphanage, and my parents nearly went to prison for crimes against pony rights. Heck princess Celestia herself was particularly enraged when she heard the story." She casually replied, only serving to confuse the doctor even more. "Long story short, the inevitable happens. I got angry at the world. I felt like I couldn't breathe and…in a fit of anger put a kid in my school in the hospital because of that, 3 broken ribs, a bleeding nose and a broken hoof, yeah not my best moments." Amber confessed in shame, "You could imagine the rest; compensation for medical and psychological trauma, expulsion from school, family therapy, anger management sessions, parenting lessons. That whole song and dance, it was a mess I got myself and my family into it” She got angry and started punching the bag again “And as a result, got even less control over my life, by the stars, every pony wary or on edge around me. Constant surveillance, by the stars there was a moment I thought if I ever heard the phrase ‘how are you feeling?’ one more time…” She snap back to reality, and see the doctor again “…It's cool! It water under the bridge now, no need to panic”

She tell the doctor trying not to scare him off again 

“I-I can see that” He clears his throat once he is more relaxed “Please proceed”     

“Anyway, after 2 years of that mess, and having a particular chat with the princess herself things started to improve, and for the first time I felt like I was breathing again. Mom and dad, finally got into their heads not to push a filly too hard and let her have a life. Even though the training never stopped." 

"I'm sorry, did you just say that after all that, they still keep pressure you into becoming a guard?" Wolf asked, not believing what she was saying. 

"Are you starting to see why the subject of the control is not something easy for me, Doc? But don't worry, things got better and believe or not, I was as tired of all that drama as my parents were. I just wanted to rest, give them a chance, and compromise, somewhat. Were they harsh? Heck yeah, but it wasn't to the point where I would prefer taking my chances with some set of strangers out there. So I give them another chance, and that paid off…eventually" 

"I can see that you and your parents didn't exactly have the best of relationships growing up." 

That comment managed a laugh out of Amber "Not in the slightest, no. But as I said, it got better, and we buried the past. They were never monsters. They just didn't know how to raise a kid, and well. As corny as this might sound. I still love them." She admitted with a little smile. 

"Well, I'm glad that the incident was resolved and that things were never progressed to the point where something irreversible had happened then…the child recovered right?" Dr. Wolf asked for concern for the incident that started it all.  

“Oh yeah, full recovery…ok maybe he developed a slight bit of venustraphobia for a while  but I worked really hard to help him overcome it, which I did by the by I did. So no pony can’t say I don’t clean my own messes” 

“I see that, a sense of guilt, wishing to repent, and owning to your mistakes. A treat that I’m sure, were ingrain as part of your soldier training” 

“Call it what you want doc, I just felt bad and wanted to make things right, and let me tell you. That kid was the bigger pony of the two for giving me a chance after all that happen” She states with genuine admiration.    

“After hearing that story? I complete agree”Dr. Wolf nods, calming down a bit. "And with a start like that, I could imagine that your teenage years were a notch rebellious as a result?" 

"Oh, you bet they were doc." Amber admitted without any hint of shame as she recalled the memory "when I entered that phase, I went hard, I might have overcome my aggressive behaviour, but mom and dad were not out of the woods with me, not by a long shot" she looked up and reminisced. "Purple mohawk, piercings, black make-up, torn up jackets, the whole package. I sported it all and did it with pride. At first, I was just acting out, getting under my parent's skin, but the sensation of freedom, the feeling that I didn't need to earn my happiness, being in complete control of my own life. Oh, Doc, it was euphoric," she sighed in happiness before looking back at him. 

"Do you know what I'm talking about?" 

"In a way, I do. It sounds like you find a form of inner peace during your rebellious phase, a very unusual method, I have to add." 

"Heh, yeah, you could say that. And well, it's kind of obvious by looking at me, but thankfully it was a phase. A certain event that happened to me during that time opened my eyes to the reality of the world to see how bad I was screwing with my life with that lifestyle" She looks back at the punching bag. "Pika…that son of a mule ex of mine," she whispered in a tone full of venom as she hugged the exercise equipment, or more accurately, it looked like she was trying to split it in half with a bear hug. "Now, he was a real piece of work." 

"Amber, if the subject is too sensitive for you, we don't need to talk about it right away," Dr. Wolf said to her with a concerned voice. "We can change the subject if you want. By the stars, the adventure with your parents alone sounded like quite the odyssey you had" 

"Nah doctor, I'm a big filly, I can handle it," Amber was quick to answer back. "Plus, you might want to hear this story," she defended, trying to keep it together. Dr. Wolf was still a bit nervous but let her continue.

"So there I was, a naive and gullible sixteen-year-old runaway troublemaker in love, willing to do anything for her sweetheart, with nothing but a dream of a "happily ever after" and her life savings to start our new life. And yeah, I'm aware of the hypocrisy, of robbing my family after I gave them a chance, and they changed for the better" She chuckled while shaking her head and sniffing a little. Because she had her back to the doctor, he couldn't see it, but it was pretty apparent that she was holding back tears. 

"I should have known better during that time, despite being so young, we somehow managed to land a decent apartment on the rich side of Canterlot. There was food, electricity, water. Nothing was out of the ordinary. It was too good to be true, and yet, I was too blind in love to question anything. 'Do the chores' Pika told me, even hurting others for him that wanted to hurt him because 'they were just against me,' I thought that I got away with my wish until he grew tired of having me around, turns out that I was only muscle for him, and then a scapegoat for when the law got too close. The spineless swine didn't even have the BALLS to look me in the face when he broke up with me. Instead, I simply woke up one day hearing a pony starting to break down our apartment door. When trying to look for Pika, I only found a 'dear John' note an open window near our room while the royal guards started banging on the door of our room, yelling something about some drug possession." 

She smiled and looked back at him. "A drug dealer. Of course, he was a drug dealer, who simply got lucky in finding a rich stallion willing to be his client. Can I pick them or what, Doc?" 

"Amber, it was in the past you didn't know any better," he tried to console her but stopped when she hit the punching bag as hard as she could, making it spin everywhere, she then continued before he could say anything else. 

"Of course, I was no longer blinded by love after that. No, instead I was seating with white-hot fury ready to turn his skull into mush, but then my parents arrived and…" she sobbed and this time hugged the punching bag "…they didn't have to do anything. I couldn't even be mad at them any longer. They could have just let me rot in jail after being such a pain in the flank… And yet they came to my rescue. There was no obligation, but still, they did, and when I asked them why they did it, why they paid for my sentence after everything I have done? They simply looked at me like I just asked why the sky was blue and just told me that they loved me." 

Unable to hold back tears, she almost choked while continuing. "That night, everything was put on the table, how even after all the therapy I still found discomfort, my pleading to be completely free, even my fears of not knowing what to do if not a royal guard. Things were said, tears were shed, and in the end, we hugged it out, and I was done with that ridiculous phase of mine and decided to do what I wanted to do." 

"And that led you to being a royal guard?" 

"Eventually, yeah." She cleared her eyes and her snout before turning around to face the doctor. "I tried my hooves at other things first, you know, see what I could do and got my hooves wet. I was able to be free with my decisions, with no pony controlling me. Sure, in the end, I decided to follow the family tradition, but it was my choice and mine alone. The fact that I could chase down and subdue the rat that left me was just going to be a sweet, sweet bonus." 

"You entered the guards…searching for means for revenge?" Dr. Wolf asked in worry. 

"At first, yeah. That bastard didn't just leave me to rot. There were scars still fresh in my mind, traumas that wouldn't let me rest until I had a couple of words with him…scores to settle at last." For each word, she kept punching the bag, making it spin faster and faster, and Dr. Wolf could even start to see scorch marks on it until she stopped and resumed. 

"But as time went on, I discovered that I liked being a guard. I was a natural, and better yet, I discovered that just because you followed orders doesn't mean that you lost your freedom, it just was another job. A dangerous and strict job sure, but a job nonetheless, and it wasn't anything I couldn't deal with." she boasted in pride. "Plus, Stellar saved me from doing something I would have regretted on my first assignment, and after that, I was able to put all those thoughts behind me and prove myself to be the best of the best." 

"Excuse me. You said Stellar saved you? Amber, did you almost…kill Pika?" 

"Heh, if only things had been that easy, Doc, but that is a story for another time. Anyway, you can picture the rest. I rose to the top of the class, got the attention of Celestia, job offers rained down nonstop, and finally, my proud parents could see their baby at the top of the food chain." she proclaimed with pride before her expression turned somber. "All by my own choosing and hard work, without the influence of anyone." 

Glaring at the floor, she returned her attention to the punching bag. "And then that assassin came around and used me as a puppet again! Robbed me of my control! Forced me to hurt others! Cost me my job, hurt our rulers, and…" 

"Amber!" Wolf has to yell to snap her back to reality, and when she comes back to awareness, she noticed the remains of what once was the punching bag and her own panting from exhaustion.

"It's OK, you are in a safe place here," He said, calming her down. 

"Sorry," she whispered in shame and with some heat in her cheeks.

Once she regained her breath, she went and sat on the chair. "So you see, what is my problem now? One thing is what he did, but making me hurt others? That is a sensitive subject for me. It reminds me of old wounds." 

"I can see that. Tell me, Amber, was the situation of your ex-boyfriend ever resolved?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. 

"What do you mean?" 

"I mean, was he brought to justice? Or is he still out there?" 

"Oh, he was captured, alright!" she said with a happy tone. "One of my very first arrests!" 

"Good, and after he was put in jail, were you able to move on from when he abandoned you?" 

"Wasn't that implied when I told you that my parents and I talked it out?" 

"Yes, you did, and I'm delighted to hear it because it means you and your family managed to work your differences and grew as a result. But were you able to do the same with that drug dealer?" 

"What!? Why in the nine circles of Tartarus would I EVER even consider speaking a word to that worm?!" she asked, getting defensive.

"You already answered that question, the trauma that he left you with, the words that needed to be said. Where were those words ever said?" 

"Of course they…they were." 

"Telling him his rights, exchanging insults and dragging him into a jail cell doesn't count," Dr. Wolf listed while crossing his arms and looking at her with a raised eyebrow. "So I will ask again, was the subject resolved, or at the very least addressed?" 

"What else needs to be said? It was a stupid mistake, and he is no longer part of my life." 

"But Amber, don't you see, it is part of your life. Being in control is indeed a sensitive subject for you. By the stars, you and Stellar had developed a bond with each to avoid your problems." 

"We what?!" Amber asked in alarm, yet Dr.Wolf raised his paw at that. 

"A subject for another session, because that is something else that needs to be addressed properly later on. For now, we need to talk about that trauma of yours and how you are avoiding it." 

"I do not!" 

"Yes, you are, and we both know why. But those feelings you have for Pika and that assassin, it's not anger, isn't it?" 

"I…I'm starting to feel uncomfortable with these accusations," she looks away, starting to get nervous.

"Amber, please, you need to stop getting defensive. You can't get better until you are honest with yourself and admit what you are feeling." 

She doesn't respond, instead, she withdrew into herself, holding tears, not wanting to admit the truth. 

"You are only making things worse by not saying anything, Amber, and this incident will repeat. No matter how much you work or try to avoid it until you say it, it will still hurt. And Celestia knows who will be harmed next because of it, your friend…your family…the royal family..." 

The comment managed to snap Amber out of it, and she imagined herself in the middle of a crater with her friends on the ground severely injured and looking at Amber with fear. Biting her tongue, Amber closed her eyes in frustration. 

"F-FINE! OK, I admit it! I'm not angry. I was never furious at what I am…what I am was afraid!" she yelled in frustration with tears in her eyes, as she heard herself in surprise. "I'm afraid," she repeated to herself in realization. 

"And that is the first step." Dr. Wolf smiled and clapped his paws. "I'm proud of you, Amber." 

"No, I can't be. If I'm afraid, how can I do my job?" she asked, looking at the doctor for answers. 

"One step at a time," he tells her with a smile. "And at your own pace, you can deal with the trauma that this pony inflicted on you. Unfortunately, I don't know if it will ever fade completely, but it is clear that to overcome it, the final step on your journey will be to confront him directly." 

"Yeah…yeah, you are right, Doc! Until I talk with that rat, I will never be free of him!" 

"True, but not yet." he shook his head. 

"What? Why not?" 

"You are still too emotionally fragile," he remarked while pointing at the remains of the punching bag. "Confronting him now could result in some terrible consequences. What you need right now is a ton of soul searching and a way to channel all that pent up frustration you have. Put your mind at peace in a sort of way." 

"Oh, please don't tell me I have to do all that meditation stuff," she complained like a filly not wanting to eat her vegetables. "Doc, I can't stay still. I'm a mare of action! I need to keep moving!" 

"That is not an issue. You can meditate and do just that at the same time." 

"Oh no, I am not going to fall for that Tai-Chi, mumbo jumbo thing either. Stellar tried on me once, and didn't work." 

"I was thinking of something more of your comfort zone" Dr. Wolf opened a drawer and passed her a CD case. 

"What is this?" 

"Adrenaline music. Tell me, have you ever trained with headphones before?" 

"No, not, as far as I recall," Amber confessed. 

"Excellent, then this might help you start with your recovery. From now on, each time you exercise or have any angry thoughts, I want you to go take a lap while hearing this, and don't stop until you hear at least three whole songs." 

"You want me to train to work on my issues?" 

"Trust me, we all have our methods of relaxation and for what I have seen, and you have told me, I'm pretty sure this one will help you relax. I know a bit of a contradiction, but trust me, it does. Feel free to add any other song you want. As long as it keeps your blood pumping, it will do the trick." 

"Well, sounds unusual…yet enticing," She confessed, looking at the CD as a smile slowly appeared on her face. "Ah what the heck, beats smelling candles and moving at a snail's pace, I will give it a go. Thanks, Doc." 

"Don't mention it." He then looked at a clock on the wall. "Our time is almost up, but I would like to have more sessions with you if you don't mind." 

"You want to hear that story, don't you?" 

"And I would like to address this relationship you and your friend have developed over the years, yes. But that decision will ultimately be yours." 

Amber thought it over before she comes up with an idea, "You know what, let me see how this music thing works out first, and then I will give you my answer." She then goes to the door. "For now, there's a lot I need to unpack. Don't worry, Doc, I will keep the offer in mind. Until then, later!" She waves goodbye, leaving Dr. Wolf alone as he sighed. 

One is an introvert while the other is an extrovert, and they use each other to hide their problems. They don't seem to realize it, but unknowingly, they have developed a cage for their friend. I just hope their friendship can support the truth and that they can work through their issues. 

He sighed again and looked at both of their pictures on the table. I hope they decide to continue our sessions; there is still too much to heal…and damn it now, Amber left me with a question. What precisely happened with those two? He admitted in frustration while looking at the door and then chuckle and then takes a deep breath and hold his chest with one of his paws "It good to be helping" He comments to no one in particular.
> Sharp Shoot Proposal (RB, KTK And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

While reading a beginner's guide on how to manifest emotions into solid constructs, Sharp Shot activated his necklace and  took the occasional glance at the statue of Spike in front of him. Or rather, he looked at the ponies that stopped to admire it or even take a picture of it. All of them presented the perfect opportunity to practice the first spell that he was taught. It was a pretty harmless one called 'Eye of Hearts', which, as the name implied, allowed the caster the ability to see the aura of others if they were feeling passionate or affectionate towards someone or something. As he was noticing, from the pink radiation, all the indicated admirers were showing.

"Having fun there, rusty?" Hurricane broke his concentration as he turned to his left to see her approach him. "Don't get me wrong, I like to keep my mind and body sharp like any other good soldier, but using your new toys on civilians? Doesn't that seem a bit invasive?" 

"I could barely consider that a breach of privacy, ma'am," Sharp answered before they both heard a particularly happy fan prancing and bragging to her friends about how she touched the statue. "When you are exposing your love and happiness to the world so publicly, you are practically begging for others to see your aura. A thought that is shared with my classmates," he explained, pointing at other ponies not-so-subtly using the 'Eye of Hearts' as well. 

"Ok, point taken," Hurricane nodded before sitting next to him. "So, mind if I join you for a while? There is something I'd like to discuss with you." 

"Not at all, ma'am. By all means. Ask me whatever you want," he commented, lowering his book. 

"In that case, I will cut right to the chase. What did you mean when you told us that your goals and my pals were the same? Because let me tell you, that is something improbable," she said with a stern voice. 

"I'm that transparent?" he asked, not denying anything before sighing and closing his eyes. "Please don't get me wrong, ma'am, I genuinely wish to be of assistance in your endeavor to capture that pony, and I truly came here to study the emotional spectrum to stop him. It was only that my goal isn't going to stop there," he admitted with a hint of embarrassment, gaining the attention of Hurricane who looked at him with a raised eyebrow. 

"As Miss Amber said earlier, my family has been in the arms dealing business for several generations now, ensuring the protection of Equestria. Not only of the crown but the regular citizens as well. As with any good enterprise, the key to staying on top of the market is keeping up with the times." Sharp Shot explained, before pointing at his necklace, he continued, "Take this discovery, for example. Magic directly linked to your emotions and using them to defend and create solid constructs. With a premise like that, the idea of weaponized emotions is almost guaranteed to happen soon after." 

"And like any stallion in the arms dealing market, you want to be the pony that brings up the idea first." 

"Precisely. But putting aside my own gain, I can guarantee that my intentions are not as malicious as that sounds. I am, in fact, fully aware of how weird this might sound coming from an arms dealer. But the truth of the matter is that I wish to marry a non-lethal ideology to the concept of emotions as weapons to my peers," Sharp Shot said, placing his right hoof on his chest and gaining the attention of Hurricane. 

"Come again?" She asked, perplexed by what she just heard. 

"What I mean is, even a monkey can shoot to kill anyone, but to incapacitate, an aggressor or an intruder is the equine way. To prevent them from harming you without risking their lives in any way. Now, there is an idea worth exploring, especially if it opens the door into a more lucrative enterprise and a faster way to make money, rather than just another lethal weapon," he explained, getting excited as he exposed his project to the Commander.

"You shoot someone, you injure, scar, or kill them. You shoot an arrow of emotions…say an arrow of sorrow or one that blocks them, and your attacker loses their will to fight or resist! No scars, no permanent damage, and a problem solved in the most peaceful of ways, with just the right amount of moral ambiguity of right or wrong, by manipulating others' emotions. And that means bigger market options, worried parents, bachelors concerned about their safety, even police officers! The possibilities are vast and wide!" 

"Ok, ok, I get the idea, your planning on getting rich and exploiting a discovery before the competition beats you to it," Hurricane raised her hooves, trying him to bring him down from his hype. "I still don't see how my pals enter into that plan of yours, Rusty." 

"Easy. No matter how good of an idea or product you have, without the proper advertisement, it will fail. Now, having two Celestial Centurions using my prototype to apprehend a criminal with charges of attempted regicide? That would be the perfect publicity stunt to put my product on the map." 

"Woah, Woah, Woah, prototype?, You already have a prototype?! Didn't you just start learning about emotions today?" 

He chuckled at her reaction. "My time as a royal guard has been paying off, ma'am. I have been exploring the concept of these weapons ever since that assassin made his attack. Don't you know? Prepare for any surprise. So far, anything I have in mind is still in the blueprint stage, and I only pitched my idea to Prince Armor a couple of days ago. He and his wife are still discussing the subject. But I assure you once I get the green light and am provided with the proper materials. I will be able to create something that will not only be able to disarm this criminal in the most equine of ways, but it will also revolutionize Equestrian security as we know it, and will drastically drop the number of casualties taken when chasing or subduing criminals," he finishes with a smile. 

"You mean IF that prototype works and doesn't blow up in their faces," Hurricane pointed out with a raised eyebrow.

"Rest assured, that will be the last thing that will happen. Besides my keen eye and professionalism with archery, I'm also an adept inventor when it comes to weapons design and construction. It's a trait that has been ingrained in my family for generations and has ensured our place as the number one arms manufacturer in Equestria for that long. Whatever I build, I do it fast, efficient, and of high quality, even if it is the prototype. If Amber and Stellar were to agree to my help, you can bet that I will put even more passion and attention into the details of this project." 

"You want to make this weapon, don't you, Rusty?" 

"What can I say, we never stop being soldiers ma'am, we live on the battlefield. Combat is in our blood, I simply wish to evolve it into something more civilized" He answered with a sly smile, unsettling Hurricane significantly and giving her a shiver. 

What the heck is the deal with this colt, and that smile? Sure he's a slimeball, but as much as I hate to admit it. His logic seems on point, and other than wanting to make a quick buck, he doesn't seem all that bad. Is this what the Rookie was telling me about, the 'sharks' in the world of business?

"I hope that helps clear the air Commander. Sure, I seek personal gain as well. But I genuinely wish to be of help hunting down this assassin. Heck, I would gladly volunteer to join on the hunt for his head, but as Amber said, that is a sensitive mission. And as much as I hate to say it, I'm a civilian now. Besides, for the looks on their faces and their flop in the first class, something tells me that they are not exactly looking for a negotiator. Am I right?" 

"Ah, so you saw it too, then?" 

"As I said, you never stop being a soldier, and if there something we know is when one has a desire for the hunt." 

"And yet, you want to offer them an opportunity to use a weapon that will not hurt their prey?"

"Who says that it won't hurt?" He asked with a raised eyebrow, surprising the Commander as he smirked maliciously. "As I said, it is still in their development stages, and I plan to build a ballista. It will not leave scars, and I fully intend for it to be used to disarm and stun, but until I find a material that can replace it, an arrow is an arrow." 

He then stood up and dusted himself off. "Thank you for your time, Commander, but I'm afraid I have some business to attend to myself, and it appears that our friends will not be joining us today. If you see them, please tell them what we discussed and to think it over. I'm sure that with my help, they can speed things along greatly. But of course, the decision is ultimately theirs." 

He turned around and started to walk away. "It was a pleasure talking with you, Commander. Perhaps if there is a next time, we could exchange war stories. For my part, I'm particularly intrigued by the campaign you carried out against the Caribou during your five-year tour in Equestria." 

And of course, he would know about one of the more gruesome and grueling fights I had while I was still alive.

"Maybe next time, Rusty," The Commander replied with a practiced smile as she waved at him goodbye. It was only after Sharp Shot had finally left did she allow herself to relax and sigh.

This stallion gives me the creeps. One moment he's a clean-cut business stallion. The next, he's a fan wanting to hear my most gory of stories. Seriously, Rusty, what the hay is the deal with you? 


Later that night

"After that, I went to find Shining Armor and did some digging around in the royal library and the archives on Sharp Shot. Everything seemed in order while he was a Royal Guard, but things seemed to go downhill after he became a Wonderbolt." Hurricane explained to her friends while comparing notes in their hotel room. 

"I know about that. He was brought up for a dishonorable discharge for refusing to obey the chain of command and started training cadets in aerial combat after they declined his idea of turning the Wonderbolts into a more active militarised force. There wasn't enough evidence to convict him, and a psychology test revealed some mild dissociative disorder, typical for ponies after a war concluded, so they were easy on him in the trial. According to his claims, he 'only wanted to prepare and explore different alternatives in case of a new war.' He was forced to some vacation time at the suggestion of the princesses, and was placed as a drill sergeant where they believed his services could be of better use for the crown." 

"Sunshine! Of course, you did that" Hurricane told no one as she brought her hoof to her face. "Always giving everyone a second chance." 

"Well, it looks like it worked, because he fit right in as a drill sergeant. Some cadets complained of him pushing them too far, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and after two years, he simply decided to retire for good and didn't re-up." Amber concluded reading the report, looking at the papers before looking at her friends. "According to him, his body was getting too old, and he wanted to spend the remnants of his life peacefully, so no one had any objections to his retirement. But everyone thought that, when he said that, he meant a house on the beach to spend his life, not taking over his family business." 

"What about his family?" Hurricane asked, looking at some other papers. 

"Divorced, with three children of his own, two pegasi and one unicorn, all males and none involved in the royal guard or any similar lines of work. It looks like his ex-herd thought that he was a workaholic and wasn't exactly father material, so they split with the mares taking the children. Other than that, it doesn't seem like he has any other family left. Overall it seems like he just got married to his job as an arms dealer, ma'am," Amber concluded, putting the papers down. 

"Yeah, I got the same vibe when I was talking with him earlier, right up until the end when he wanted to hear a very nasty tale about what happened to me while I was serving Equestria," Hurricane grunted in frustration and put the papers down in annoyance. "Damn it. I simply don't understand that stallion. From all accounts, he is perfectly fine, but with a past like that, I was expecting something more aggressive and violent, 'specially with the dishonorable discharge. Ponies like those don't just give up an idea like that so easily." 

Stellar floated another piece of paper, showing his psychological evaluation. "Right, therapy helped, I get it. Maybe that influenced him, but either that was one hell of a doctor, or that stallion is fooling us." 

"Regardless, everything is out in the open, and even if he had any other ulterior motives, this invention of his could be useful," Amber voiced her opinion, surprising Hurricane. 

"You are pulling my tail right now, right? Are you considering his offer?" 

"Only as a last resort and with the approval of Princess Cadence. Stellar and I never intended to extend our visit any longer than necessary, and our objective was to study and find ways to counter this assassin's magic. If Sharp Shot can truly give us something that can do just that, then that could speed up our progress dramatically." 

Stellar nodded in agreement.

"Just like you said, this is not a pleasure trip, ma'am, we are on a mission here. And as such, we need to make use of every advantage available." She told Hurricane with determination. "Besides, if Sharp Shot is truly plotting something, it would be wise to keep a close eye on him, don't you agree?" 

Hurricane only sighed in defeat. "I can't argue with that logic" She then pointed at the two of them. "I just hope you two know what you are doing, and don't let the mission make you lower your guard." 

"Don't worry, ma'am, we won't, this is what we have trained for." Amber answered before Stellar poked her side, seeking her attention before showing her necklace. "Yeah, I know, I haven't forgotten about that either. We still need to retake our emotion test and see where they place us. So we are stuck here until then. So until and only IF Sharp Shot could truly show us a functional prototype for us to use, the plan remains the same." They both looked out of the window. "As well as doing a lot of soul searching," she said, looking back at the CD the doctor gave her in the afternoon, not noticing that her friend doing the same toward some earplugs on the nightstand. 

Meanwhile Back in Canterlot 

It was a stormy and rainy night on the Canterlot castle, and the prince was finishing up pouring some tea into two small porcelain cups while an assortment of candles illuminated the room around him. " Again, I'm so sorry we have to meet so late at night, with the weather as bad as it is right now, I must insist that you stay the night." He picked up the sugar bowl and added two scoops to each cup "Believe me, I fully intended to contact you as soon as I returned after everything had calmed down. But with the whole duel, the trial, the safeguarding of the money, discussions about the criminals…it was a circus and a half. Trust me, I made you dodge an arrow there, the last thing you wanted was to be caught in the crossfire of all that mess." the prince joked as he uses his magic to levitate both cups and turns around. 

"And then, my aunts decided to press me into learning about good manners and proper etiquette for weeks before I could even do anything else. Thank god I still have my notes," he mumbled the last part mostly to himself as he advanced. Thunder and lightning rumbled outside, occasionally illuminating the room even more.

"That is partly why neither of my aunts aren't here now. I tried explaining, but they were still up to their necks in documents and royal decrees that needed their immediate attention. But I don't think they will have any issue with me inviting you over. After all, you are a very close friend of the family." 

He sat down and then realized that he hadn't let his guest utter a single word for a while now. " and I have just been complaining and rambling about myself for a while, haven't I?" Rather than answering, his guest merely smirked and nodded a couple of times. 

"Sorry, it's just that I still feel bad for not contacting you, and I know this sounds like an excuse, but I wanted things to be in order before I start any of my plans. God knows I have been patient enough," he mumbled angrily, the last part making him look to the side with a glare before returning to his guest. 

"I will stop now, that is not the reason you are here," he placed one cup on the table while he admired his reflection in the other. "The reason why I asked you to come is…well, ever since my exile, I have had a lot of time to think about what you said about my family, and to be frank, I wish to learn more about my parents. I even plan to visit their tombs tomorrow with my aunts, and I'm sure they will be happy if you could join us too. Before I start living up to my title there are a lot of things I want to put in order, and one of them is having some closure." he extended the cup to his guest, "and I would love it if you could be a part of that, so what do you say, miss?" 

"Blueblood, my dear child, nothing would make me happier than to accompany you, it will be my honor to be part of your life once more." his guest responded while taking the cup with her wings and taking a small sip from it, "and stop it with the 'miss' as I told you at the masquerade, you can call me Aunty Tempo." the mare in question answered him. At the same time, a particularly close bolt of lightning bathed the entire room with light showing the pegasus as she smiled at her god-nephew. 

At that exact moment in Celestia's office, the monarch of the day stood up from her bed with a start, feeling a cold sweat making its way on her back and looking as she just witnessed a ghost. "Something horrible just happened..." she exclaimed out loud as yet another flash of lightning illuminated her entire room.
> Respect For The Departed (BS, RB AND KTK )
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The tension was palpable among the royal sisters as they watched from a distance. They could see Blueblood spending some alone time with his god-aunt Tempo. Who, after placing a bouquet of white carnations on the graves of Blueblood's parents and sharing a couple of stories about them with the prince, politely asked the sisters for a moment alone with him, telling them that there were a couple of things she wanted to discuss with him alone. Naturally, Celestia was opposed to the idea, but after some coaching from Luna, she reluctantly agreed and gave the two of them a moment to talk. 

Time seemed to have slowed to a crawl as Celestia kept watching Tempo like a hawk as she spoke with her nephew. She could feel the mare taunting her somewhat as she occasionally looked back at her with a smirk and even going so far as to place her right wing on the Prince's back for support as they kept chatting. It was an act that was in Celestia's mind, only reserved to her, Luna and Cadence. 

Oh no, she didn't!

"I am sure that that is enough time those two have had," Celestia proclaimed and started to march forward until Luna placed her hoof in front of her, halting her sister's advance. 

"Come on, Celly, just let those two have their moment. There is a lifetime of catching up between them," Luna argues in pity. "Regardless of the history that you two might share, Crossfire Tempo has the right to be a part of Blueblood's life, just as you and I do." 

Celestia could only grumble and look to the side in frustration. "I don't know if she still deserves that privilege." 

"Seriously, Tia, what happened between you two? What caused you to have such little faith towards that mare?" Luna questioned the perplexity of her sister's behavior. 

"Because that mare became all that I have learned to despise in the noble class," Celestia was quick to answer before sighing in shame and lowering her head in disappointment. "That mare was once one of the greatest captains the Wonderbolts ever had. A pegasus of action that wouldn't think twice about getting her hooves dirty and was the perfect example of a teammate. But after her accident, she changed to the point that I couldn't recognize the mare I once knew, and my nephews trusted with the lives of their offspring. At first, I blamed myself for the change, but then..." 

She trailed off as she looked at Luna, who brought her hoof to her face, "You pampered her while recovering, didn't you?" 

"This one wasn't my fault! The mare couldn't even move, for pony's sake, Luna! So I hired a couple of nurses and ONE butler to assist in her recovery. I didn't go overboard, I swear. Sure, I was concerned and let her stay in the palace, and I made sure that Blueblood visited her as often as possible. But that was it; she never was treated any differently than other injured subjects." Celestia defended herself before continuing. "I might have even been a tad bit more strict in her recovery sessions and made sure she didn't skip any of them." 

Luna looked at her with a raised eyebrow, not wholly believing her sister but was willing to give her a chance to explain herself. "Go on." 

"Everything was going well right until her flying lessons started. According to her trainer, she was in perfect condition and ready to fly again, but each time she tried, her wings went stiff and refused to move. Like some sort of defense mechanism when trying to lift off, revealing that her mind was not completely healed from the accident." 

"I see. That must have been a terrible experience for her," Luna commented, bringing her right hoof to her chin in thought. 

"That's the thing. I'm not sure she even realized or cared about her situation. Sure, she told me how frustrated she was being grounded, but when the doctor told her, Tempo took the news rather well, calmly even. It was like a part of her didn't care about flying anymore, and she didn't even make an effort to seek professional help to fix it. Each time I tried to encourage her or even asked why she didn't want to look into the problem, she only replied by telling me, 'I'd rather not do it.'" Celestia recalled the event getting more emotional by the second. "Poor Spitfire, when Tempo announced her early retirement, I swear I saw that little filly's heart break in two. The old Tempo was her hero, and she saw her crash and burn." 

"A sorrowful story indeed," Luna nodded in agreement. 

"After that, you can start blaming me for getting my hooves in her life a little bit. She was still Blueblood's guardian and was currently unemployed, so I extended my invitation to live in the palace even more and even offered her a sum of bits for her to start again when she felt ready. Having her help raising Blueblood was more than welcome." 

Luna's eyes widened in realization. "Sister, you are not saying…?" 

Her fears were only confirmed when Celestia merely nodded. "Just like Blueblood, she slowly started to make ridiculous requests and use him as a tool to obtain them. She didn't have much power to order ponies around, but her god-nephew did. She took full advantage of that fact. She practically taught him how to behave around others." 

"And molded him into the narcissistic manipulating brat we knew." Luna whispered, looking at the mare in question. "She is the one that created that monster. That is the root of your anger toward her, no, it is more than just that, you are concerned that she might try to repeat it, am I right?" 

"That is only half of the issue, sister, but yes, it is a big chunk of the problem. Part of me is happy that her time in exile has humbled her somewhat, and so far, she hasn't been demanding anything and only seems set on earning my forgiveness. Though, after what she did to make me exile her…that would take more time." 

"What did she do?" Luna asked now intrigued by the story, but once again before Celestia could explain, the mare in question approached the two with a sigh before looking at Celestia. "Blue asked me if you could talk with him in private for a moment or two." 

"Just me?" Celestia asked, pointing at herself as Tempo nodded. "He said something about feeling in another body and said that you could help while Princess Luna and I chat a little," she explained before looking at the mare in question. "Which I think it's a good idea, as my god-child told me, this is an opportunity for us to get to know each other better and I don't think we have had the pleasure of meeting yet, Princess Luna." 

"It is a perfectly valid point," Luna nodded in agreement. "And I have a couple of questions I have meaning to ask since I was informed of your connection with our family. Mainly how did you and Bluebloods parents meet in the first place?" 

"Isn't that ironic? Blueblood asked me the same thing, earlier." She then glared at Celestia. "One might think his supposed Grand Aunt would have tried to help a family member remember as much of his past as possible, but I imagine talking about his parent's circle of friends was simply too low on the list," she spat at Celestia with a voice full of venom. Even Luna was impressed by the bravery of the mare, pointing out her sister's age. 

She is brave I will give her that

Luna mentally praised her before stopping Celestia from turning Tempo into ashes by placing her hoof on Celestia's shoulder. "Just go to our nephew, sister. I will take it from here," Luna instructed her, pointing at Blueblood with her head while he kept staring at the graves. 

Celestia only sighed to calm down before nodding. "Not that you would ever believe me, but I truly intended to introduce you two, maybe not immediately but eventually. I would have done that," she defended herself before leaving.

"Forgive me if I find that hard to believe, Princess." Tempo retorted as she kept glaring at Celestia. At that moment, Luna could practically taste the resentment both mares were feeling toward each other as Celestia approached her nephew while Tempo turned to regard her with a calm smile. As the ruler of the night considered the mare before her, while she was willing to listen and give her a chance, Luna was ready to stay alert and weigh all of her actions in case the mare in question may have any ulterior motives.

Once Celestia reached Blueblood, her maternal alarms started to flare. She could detect the signs of fatigue and fear in Blueblood. It was clear that he didn't have a peaceful rest the night before. At first, she laughed it off, thinking it mere stress of seeing his parents, but now she was sure that it was more than just that. Something else was bothering and happening to Blueblood, and her concern slowly grew as a result. 

Rather than voice her presence outright, the princess decided instead to simply sit next to Blueblood and look at the graves herself, which consisted of two simple marble plates with a steel plaque on top wherein a gold inscription was etched. Here lies Royal Treatment/ Formal Attire, friends, husband/wife, loving parents, and beloved members of the royal family.

It was just as she had instructed for their funeral. A single tear ran down her left cheek as she paid her respects to them in silence, remembering the scar that their departure left on her heart. 

"Do you miss them?" Blueblood asked while keeping his gaze on his parents. 

"Always. I know full well that they are resting in peace with the rest of my family, and despite being gone, their spirits keep watch over us. Though, there are days where I look at the stars and think about what a shame it is that Equestria will never be able to taste Royal's special royal strawberry tarts ever again," Celestia said with a small smile, earning a low chuckle from the Prince. 

"My dad knew how to cook?" 

"When you are a food critic for so long, you pick up a thing or two, nephew. Just as how Formal Attire knew her way around a needle and could easily give Rarity a run for her bits making dresses, as well as giving her opinion," Celestia replied finally looking at Blueblood, "I dare to say, if she was still around, Rarity might have done everything in her power to become her apprentice. She was just that skillful at her job. Oh, the stories I could tell you of how many times she convinced me to be the model of her latest creations." she recalled with fondness as she extended her wing and covered Blueblood back in an improvised blanket. "I still wonder how she did it," she confessed in honest surprise. 

"They were prideful, arrogant, and loved to talk about themselves for hours, but all there gloating was well earned and always had as much advice as criticism. A bit of an annoyance at times, but their hearts were always in the right place, and I loved them all the same."  

"They sound like incredible ponies, with flaws sure, but very passionate about their jobs," Blueblood said, smiling in pride as he tried to hide his unease, yet Celestia saw right through that and wouldn't allow it. 

"What is in your mind, dear?" she asked with a voice of concern, making it clear that it would be pointless for Blueblood to lie, so with a sigh, he dropped the act and simply told the truth. 

"To be honest, I'm not entirely sure myself. Right now, my head is a swirl of mixed feelings and conflicting thoughts. At peace for getting to meet my parents, happy to obtain an incredible family, thankful for hearing so many stories about them…" the Prince recalled with a smile for a moment before turning that expression into sadness "…; guilty for taking over his life, determined to prove myself worthy of being their son and a prince, fearful of what I did and I might do to the kingdom," he confessed lowering his head before raising it in determination. 

"But if I truly want to be Blueblood, I need to do this. I need to come clean and pay my respects to them…to his parents," Blueblood said the last part in a whisper. "I need to apologize, and promise them that…God, I don't even know where to start!" he brought his right hoof to his face in frustration. 

"It's ok, Nephew, there's no need to force yourself," Celestia nuzzles his side in an attempt to soothe his worries as the Prince tried to calm himself. "Just take a deep breath and speak from your heart," she coach him with a warm smile. "I told you before, and I will tell you as many times as you need to hear it. Royal and Formal would have loved to have you in their lives, and I'm sure that if they were here, they would be grateful that you continue their legacy and that of their son." She ended by cleaning some tears forming in his eyes. 

"Thanks, Auntie," Blueblood nodded and sniffed once before looking at her. "I needed that." 

"Anytime, and if you still need more time, I will understand completely. Luna and I will be there when you are ready." 

"It's ok, auntie. I'm ready now," he claimed before turning his attention back at the graves. Taking a deep breath and closing his eyes, the Prince prepared himself before speaking to them. "Mom, Dad, I know that this conversation might sound a bit weird…because it is. Me having a human soul, I'm not entirely sure if we are family or not, not to mention that the original Blueblood…is gone forever. And no one will ever know it." the Prince confessed in shame as he felt Celestia's hoof on his shoulder, giving him the strength to continue.  

"I can't change what happened or do anything about it, regarding where he ended up. But I can and will honor his memory and continue his legacy as if it was my own. This is in no way an excuse or request for taking over his life, but rather, it's my way of thanking him for letting me have a second chance at life. So, with the princess as my witness, I promise you that I will ensure that the name Blueblood will not end up as infamous in the books of history," Blueblood solemnly swore at the graves of his parents before stepping back.  

"Are you feeling better?" Celestia asked him in concern, placing a wing on his back. 

"Not really," Blueblood answered, letting go of a breath he was holding while keeping his head low before raising it and looking at her with bags under his eyes and a weak smile. "But it's a start. At the very least, I said my peace and paid my respects. Do you think it will be enough for them?" he asked, turning his attention to the graves, Celestia sensing his worries and fatigue. 

"I'm sure they will," Celestia replied with a warm smile. "And who knows? Perhaps my nephew will manage to weasel his way out of Tartarus and into his mother's hooves." 

That last comment caught the Prince by surprise as he looked back at her. "Is that even possible?" 

"Others have managed to escape before, and if I knew Blueblood…the original Blueblood, I mean, its that he was incredibly crafty and clever in the face of adversity. It's a real shame he used those gifts to avoid responsibility. But on the other hoof, if any pony could be able to outwit demons and monsters and find a way out, it's him. Not to mention that he will not be alone in his endeavor," Celestia added, pointing at Formal Attire's grave. "Never underestimate the willpower of a doting mother, dear. Never." 

"Tartarus hath no fury like a concerned mother?" He asked with a chuckle and a raised eyebrow. 

"Precisely." The princess nodded. "Hopefully that helps ease your concerns." 

"It does a little actually, but it will still take time before the guilt goes away completely." Blueblood then sighed and started to walk back to the group, but stops when he notices his aunt had not moved. "Are you coming, Auntie?" 

"Just a second, there is something I would like to tell them as well," She says before addressing the grave. 

"Despite what happened, I just wanted to tell you that I care and will continue to love and protect your son as if he was my own. And whoever did this to your son, I will seek them, I will find them, and I will make them regret the day that they ever thought about hurting my family." Celestia said, shedding another tear before turning around and joining Blueblood. 

"Thank you." 

Both royals froze as they just barely perceived an audible female whisper behind them, yet when they look at the graves, there was nothing there. 

"A-Auntie, tell me that you also…" 

"...Some things are better left alone, dear," Celestia interrupted him as she pushed Blueblood forward. "Let us just not think about it too much,"

After that, they both returned to Luna and Tempo, who were in the middle of a conversation, or rather, some kind of interview where Luna kept asking questions for the pegasus to answer. 

"…afterwards we sort of just kept in contact with one another and soon our chats stopped becoming random subjects and topics to pass the time. Eventually, we became close friends." Tempo ended her story with a smile. 

"I see, who would have thought that everything was started by a business proposition to increase the popularity of a restaurant," Luna mentioned with honest fascination. However, Celestia could see that Tempo hadn't won her over just yet, and Luna was still on guard with the mare. 

"Heh, just like Twily always says, friendship can bloom at any moment, in any place," Blueblood voiced their presence with a smile as the two mares looked back at them.

"Ah, Bluey, dear! How did it go? Were you able to say your piece to your parents?" Tempo asked with a raised eyebrow, quickly approaching him until Celestia got in between them. 

"He did, and all it took was a bit of encouragement from a caring aunt," Celestia tells her with a forced smile, something that Tempo soon copied as both mares kept chuckling at one another. 

"Isn't it that right? How fortunate for my nephew to have such a wise and knowledgeable member in the family," Tempo replied as they kept laughing at one another rather forcefully. At the same time, Blueblood snuck away to approach Luna and whisper in her ear.

"And that is exactly why I didn't want to leave those two alone," he confessed. 

"Nephew, why in the name of all my stars did you invite Crossfire Tempo if you knew that it would lead to this?" Luna whispered back at him.

"Because Aunt Tempo is part of the family too, and it's not fair, excluding her just because of something that happened between her and aunt Celestia. Don't we all deserve a second chance? We of all people should know about that. Right, Aunt Luna?" 

"Oh, nephew, are you sure you know what you are doing?" Luna voiced her concern, surprising Blueblood. 

"What are you implying?" Blueblood questioned her with a raised eyebrow. 

"I mean that I applaud your intentions and your willingness to give her a chance, but this might not be a good idea. I know my sister better than anyone else, and I know that there are very few ponies that have earned her spite. If that mare is one of them, then bridges burnt might be beyond repairable." 

"So, you're saying that you are taking Aunt Celestia's side?" Blueblood questions her as his anger starts to rise. Celestia and Tempo's discussion prevented either of them from noticing the two. 

"I'm not taking any sides, nephew, what I'm telling you is to be careful." 

"Be careful. So even now, you still don't trust me?" He asked with a raised eyebrow. 

"Of course, we trust you. Dear, it's Tempo, the one we still don't know if we trust or not," Luna defended herself. 

"Then why don't you put a tracking spell on her too?" Blueblood sarcastically replied, taking Luna by surprise. 

"You thought that I wouldn't question how the royal guards managed to spot me without any doubt and prepared the teleportation so quickly despite my face being covered? I let it slide because I convinced myself that you did it because of love. Now I'm wondering if that tracker was from an issue of trust," Blueblood questioned her with a glare before holding his head in pain. 

Luna tried to help when he momentarily lost his balance, but he refused her aid and kept glaring at her. "You know, before you start judging and taking others for grated, you should consider their feelings and give them a chance to defend themselves. We wouldn't want a repeat of the…" Blueblood stopped himself the moment he saw Luna's expression and of how she was on the verge of tears, forcing him to question himself and look down in shame and thought. "What am I saying?" 

"Nephew, what is happening to you?" Luna asked in worry. 

"I'm sorry Aunty I don't know what came over me I'm just…so tired," he confessed, holding his face not in pain but rather in fatigue. "There is so much on my mind, and I'm so stressed." Once he was done rubbing his temples, he looks back at her. "Just give her a chance, auntie. She has been kind to me. I don't want to split my family now," he begged her more calmly. “Plus…what I did in Manehattan, all those kingpins I defeated. I’m praying that this is just me been paranoid, but if a member of his family or group seek my revenge well…Aunt Tempo doesn’t have my cousins magic, or a castle and army to protect herself, she would be the obvious choice to get to me, and if anyone would dare…I-I wouldn’t be able to forgive myself” 

"…ok," Luna finally relinquished after sighing in defeat. "For you, I will give her a chance," she replied with a smile. 

"And that is all I ask of you." Blueblood nodded with a weak smile before looking back at the two arguing mares. "We'd better stop them if we want to save the rest of our day off, right? The day is young, and there are still a lot of things I want us to talk about. Like what is that Nightmare Night thing I keep hearing about in the castle nowdays?" Blueblood wonders as he goes to break the bickering mares apart. 

Luna looked at him in concern as she felt the dreadful yet familiar feelings of anger and resentment emanate from her nephew.
> Tempo's Plan (RB and BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Soon after leaving the cemetery and at the recommendation of Luna, the royal family decided to take a small stroll on the city. In hopes of enjoying each other's company and lifting their moods a bit more after their somber trip to such a grim place. 

Said suggestion, of course, had more meaning to it than just that. Although she wanted to lift everyone's spirits, the princess also wanted to put a stop to the constant passive-aggressive sniping between Crossfire Tempo and her sister and force the two into a situation where they would be more civilized with one another. This had the added bonus of allowing her to focus her attention on Blueblood and a rising concern and fear forming in her heart. Judging by her nephew's sudden and unusual outburst back at the cemetery, it reminded her of a time she yearned to put behind her for good. An ironic sense of deja-vu considering what festivities were fast approaching, judging by the types of decorations that had been placed everywhere they looked. Spider webs, children were purchasing costumes, pumpkins, skeletons, and expensive, spooky costumes for both kids and adults were on sale as far as their eye could see. Yep, Nightmare Night was fast approaching, and Luna feared that her evil counterpart would make more than just an appearance this year.

"This is what you wanted us to see, right?" Tempo's sudden presence broke Luna's concentration as she looked back at her. Somehow, all her worries and focus on Blueblood spaced her out long enough to notice now that Celestia had gone ahead of them with Blueblood, most likely to explain the meaning of the festivities and how it came to be, earning his full attention as Luna and Tempo stayed behind. 

"Excuse me?" Luna looked back at her with a raised eyebrow. 

"The signs of fatigue, the clear lack of sleep, the occasional discharge of his horns. My god-nephew, for some reason, is pushing himself ragged, and you wanted us to see it, right?" Tempo replied in shame. "To subtly tell us that something bad is happening and we need to see the bigger issue. Am I right, princess Luna?"

"… It's a nice departure from your present hostility, yes," Luna eventually decided to play along before looking at Blueblood. "And just as you said, something seems to have drained all the energy from him." 

"Or somepony," Tempo suggested keeping an eye on Celestia, ignoring how Luna shared her thoughts although her focus was on a different mare entirely. 

"Ms. Tempo, per the request of my nephew, and as someone that has made mistakes before, I'm genuinely willing to give you a chance to be a part of our family, but to do that I must implore you, please refrain from voicing your hostility toward my sister." Luna told her while regarding the mare with a glare. "At this current time, there are more pressing matters than your little feud." 

In response, Tempo sighed and rolled her eyes. "Of course, there is always a catch, can't we just exclude Celestia from this? I'm sure between the two of us we could fix…" 

"Not. For. Discussion," Luna responded coldly with an intense glare. Yet rather than being angry, Tempo seemed unnaturally emotionless, catching the Princess by surprise with her lack of emotion until she replied with another roll of her eyes.

"Fine, as long as it is for the good of my god-nephew, I will try to hold my tongue as much as I can. But I will respond in kind for anything she starts," Tempo acquiesced.

"I suppose that will have to do. For now, we should talk with my sister since you share our same worries, and so we can all think of a way to help my nephew." 

And I pray the stars we won't require the elements to do so

"Sounds good to me, I will keep Blue busy while you tell her that." 

"What? Wait that is not what I meant…and she is already gone," Luna tried to argue, but by the time she had formed a sentence, Tempo was already heading toward Blueblood and Celestia.

Ok, now I'm starting to see the mannerisms my nephew used to have. 

Luna sighed in irritation before deciding just to follow Tempo's lead, to avoid escalating or starting another conflict as they approached the royals.

"Seriously? You offer her candy, or she will gobble you up?" Blueblood questioned with a raised eyebrow. "That is how the legend goes now? Were there ponies that ate meat back then? How do you trade meat for candy? And…how was that supposed to help everyone remember Aunt Luna?" 

"Yes, I know, I know," Celestia did her best to calm him down with a nervous chuckle. "I didn't plan for my objective to derail as much as it did. Honest to the stars, I intended to seek out a way for my little ponies to keep the memory of my sister alive. The festivities were originally just a normal party at night, where ponies would remember her work and play games out of respect for her memory. Yet the memory of Nightmare Moon made things harder to start…so I added small rumors that if you eat candy and cover your face, Luna would come instead of Nightmare Moon. And you know how things are with rumors, the more they spread, the more is added or changed. I honestly was happy that my ponies started to embrace the celebration properly, but by the time I heard what happened with my rumor, it was already too late, and I didn't have the heart to correct my subjects." 

"It still would have been great if you had told me about those 'changes' on my first Nightmare Night, sister," Luna interjected with a small glare at her. 

"I have already apologized, and I was going to, but then you ran off to Ponyville before I could finish the story!" Celestia defended herself. 

"Ladies, ladies, please don't fight. What happened back then was just another example of pony error," Tempo quickly intervened, placing herself in between the two. "It could happen to any of us, dear. Your aunt had the best of intentions; what happened was simply leaving an idea open for interpretation," she commented, surprising Celestia with her change of attitude. "Isn't that right, princess?" 

"Yes…that is exactly what happened, just an issue of miscommunication," Celestia replied, looking at her in confusion. 

"Let just think of it as water under the bridge and instead enjoy the rest of the day. After all, Nightmare Night is just a week away! Wouldn't it be nice if we all celebrated it together?" 

"That sounds pretty nice. I would like that very much," Blueblood replied with a smile. 

"Ahm…" Celestia tried to say anything, but Tempo interrupted her. 

"Excellent! Then it's a deal then. I will extend my stay in the castle so we can all celebrate the festivities!" 

"Now, wait just a moment!" Celestia tried to protest, but Tempo was already leaving, talking with the Prince as she held one of his hooves.

"Oh, look, Blue! That is caramel covered cotton candy; your mother used to love those. Would you like to see how it tastes?" 

"Well…" 

"Great! Let's get some!" Tempo answered for him, and the two went to get the mentioned candy leaving Celestia blinking at the interaction.

"What in Tartarus just happened?" she asked her sister as Luna approached her from the right. 

"I think Tempo just played us both, but we can deal with that later. For now, there is a much more pressing matter to be attended to," Luna immediately answered with urgency, "Mainly Blueblood's fatigue." 

Celestia sighed the moment she heard that. "I know what you mean. Ever since we left the graveyard, I have been wondering what left him so exhausted. Do you think there is something else that he hasn't told us yet?" 

"Honestly, sister, I'm starting to fear the cause of his fatigue might be something not even he is aware of," Luna replied in worry, earning Celestia's undivided attention. "Tia. I pray to the stars that I'm exaggerating, but I worry that his tampering with my moon might be the cause of his affliction." 

Celestia's eyes went wide at the revelation. "You aren't thinking that…?" 

Luna nodded before she could finish that thought. "For now, it's just a feeling that I have, but back at the graveyard when we were talking, I felt the presence of Nightmare Moon in him. Or rather, I felt the same bitterness, anger, and jealousy I had a thousand years ago." 

"Are you sure?" 

"Tia, I drowned in those emotions. When the 'incident' happened, trust me. The sensation is something that you never forget. And that is precisely what I felt coming from him." Luna then looked back at Blueblood and Tempo, buying four cotton candies. "Not to mention that his mood has been taking a turn for the erratic for some time now." 

"And most of that occurs after sunset!" Celestia exclaimed, bringing a hoof to her forehead. "How could I have been so blind?!" 

"We were neck-deep in paperwork, sister. Of course, we would have a hard time noticing those changes. What is important, however, is that we are seeing them now, and there is time yet left to prevent them." Luna placed her right hoof on her sister's shoulder to comfort her. "But we need to act quickly." 

Celestia nodded and looked back at her. "You are right, sister, there is still time." 

"And I have an idea of what we can do, but we will need the assistance of Crossfire Tempo." 

"What?! Luna, you can't possibly be…" Celestia tried once again to argue, but Luna would not have any of that as she quickly pressed her hoof over Celestia's mouth. 

"She is just as concerned, and she can give us the distraction we need. As long as she keeps Blueblood calm and happy, helping him will be a thousand times easier." she listed off with a small glare. "And she promised me that she would behave as long as you do the same. So…will you be the bigger pony, Tia?" Luna inquired with a raised eyebrow as she let her sister speak again. 

"Does she know that Nightmare Moon might be involved?" 

"No." 

Celestia thought it over before sighing in defeat and nodded a couple of times in agreement. Right on time, Blueblood and Tempo returned with their confectionaries plus two extra for the Princesses. 

"Sorry it took us so long, the peasant took his sweet time with each cotton candy," Blueblood replied, turning aggressive all of a sudden and taking Celestia by surprise. Not only that, but she could see his eyes growing reptilian for a brief second. 

'Deep breath, sister. I know, this is something I too have noticed.' Luna quickly explained to Celestia via a mental link as Blueblood looked at her with a raised eyebrow. 

"Something wrong, Aunt?" 

"Oh, it's just that it has been a while since I could have this flavor. They usually ran out very quickly," the solar diarch replied with a nervous laugh before taking a bite. Luckily that was enough to convince Blueblood, who shared a laugh. 

"We came right in time; these were the last four they had. So, where would you like to go next?" 

"Actually, sweetie, if it is ok with everyone, I had a place in mind for all of us" Tempo quickly spoke up before guiding everyone to their destination. 

At that moment in a high-class spa in the city. 

"Oh…oh my! R-Rarity are you sure you can pay for all of this?" Fluttershy asked her friend with a concerned voice as she finished reading the cost of every treatment on a menu. 

"Why absolutely, dear! I told you, in exchange for my services filling Fleur De Lis's next autumn wardrobe, taking care of her disguise for this Nightmare Night and a…ahemph," Rarity cheeks heated a little as she mumbles the last part "…personal ensemble for special occasions, she gave me a special pass for me and a plus one to have an all expenses-covered treatment in Canterlot's most famous spa. It is ranked number two on the best spas in Equestria and number one with the most decorum and greatest view!" Rarity proclaimed in excitement like a filly on Heart's Warming Eve. "Meaning everything here is free! And I could think of only one mare to share this experience with." She assured Fluttershy while putting on a robe and covering her mane with a towel before offering her a second pair, which she took with her wing. 

"After all your help assembling and packing my shipment last night, it was the least I could do, dear. I say that we both have more than earned it!" Rarity finished, picking up the menu to look through the options. "Oh, and look! They have treatments exclusively for pegasi, wing massages, trimming feathers, special salt baths, it almost makes me wish that I had a pair of wings myself," Rarity joked before looking at her friend. "Fluttershy, you simply must treat yourself to the whole package!" 

"I don't know, Rarity, this isn't exactly what I usually do. Maybe I should just stay with my usual," Fluttershy timidly replied as they both exited the locker room ready for their treatment. 

"Come on, Fluttershy, don't you wish to be pampered at least a little bit? You certainly wouldn't want to miss out on something you might regret!" Rarity said to her friend with a chuckle which Fluttershy soon joined in on as they reached the corner only to be stopped by the last ponies they were expecting to see.  

"A spa?" the prince asked, confused while looking around, as Tempo requested a menu to look at the options they had. "Really? This is the best place you could think of? You could have chosen any place in Canterlot to see, and you choose a spa? Wouldn't it be best if we had left this for last? You know? So we could explore the kingdom?" 

"Nonsense! Like I always say, if possible, you should never miss the opportunity to pamper yourself," Tempo said with a giggle. "Besides, ever since this morning, you have been nothing but a ball of stress. You need this, dear, and I will not take a 'no' for an answer." 

That surprised Blueblood as he could feel his anger rising again. "Did you just tell me what to…? 

"Blueblood?" The voice of Fluttershy immediately caught his attention as he turned to look at the mare in question. 

"F-Fluttershy?" Blueblood turned around to see both her and Rarity approaching.

"Well, hello, darling," Rarity greeted him with a smile and a wave, "It is so good to see you again. It has been ages since last we saw each other." 

"It has?" Blueblood questioned out loud before recalling the memory and surprising himself. "Huh, you are not kidding; it has been a while since the whole thing in Manehattan." 

"Indeed it has, and not that this isn't a pleasant surprise, but what are you doing here? I didn't take you as one who likes being pampered…well, I mean, I did but not the new version of you," she said with a humorous chuckle.

"And what happened to you?" Fluttershy asked, getting closer. "You look…tired," she mentioned in concern as she reached for his face, though stopped when Blueblood backed away in annoyance, much to her surprise. 

"It is nothing, just a restless night, that's all," he quickly said, avoiding eye contact before Tempo clearing her throat caught his attention. "Sweetie, aren't you going to introduce me?" 

"Oh! That's right. Rarity, Fluttershy, this is my god-aunt Crossfire Tempo, she is here visiting, so we wanted to show her around," Blueblood introduced her following his class on etiquette. "Aunt Tempo, these are…"

"…The heroes of Equestria, Fluttershy, and Rarity," she said with a smile, "I have heard of your exploits. Facing such dangerous foes on a daily basis, you girls must be truly courageous," she praised them with enthusiasm making both mares blush and look away. The act all by itself shouldn't have been that big of a deal, but for some reason, it made Blueblood's heart skip a beat, something that Luna and Celestia took notice of. 

What was that?

Who cares! We need to get out of here! To hell with being pampered! We need to…

"Would you like to join us?" Celestia asked out of the blue, surprising everyone present minus Luna, who understood what she was planning immediately. 

"W-What?" Now it was Blueblood's turn to blush as he looked back at her. "Oh no, Auntie, I bet they already had a whole spa day planned. The last thing we want is ruining it for them." 

"Nonsense!" Rarity chimed in with a big smile, "I say the more, the merrier! We would love it if you could join us! Not to brag or anything, but I know my way around a spa, so I would be more than happy to guide you if you feel a bit lost, Blueblood." 

"Plus, I agree with Miss Shy, Nephew," Luna chips in getting closer. "I held my peace because I thought you didn't want to hear it, but her concerns are true. You look tired and could use something to clear your mind after the whole ordeal we just went through." 

"Which is exactly why we insisted on coming here first!" Tempo added, stepping in. "See Blue? Even these lovely ladies see what is on everyone's mind. You are tired and need this before we do anything else," she said with finality. 

"She is right, dear," Celestia continued. "I understand you want to explore some more and enjoy the rest of the day with us, but wouldn't you rather we first clear our minds, relax and freshen up?"

"Not to mention that your poor aunt Luna could use a day at the spa too?" Tempo mentioned approaching her.

"I do?" Luna asked, confused, earning an elbow to the ribs. 

"Yes, you do…after all, as the princess of the night, aren't you getting tired of being awake so late in the morning?" 

"Now that you mention it…yes, I do," Luna commented half-honestly since this was just a trick to get him to sleep, but she also wouldn't deny the fact that she was getting tired. She could use this to get some time to relax and be more alert. This fact was brought home with a not so fake yawn. "I could use a small recharge before we continue our exploring, so what do you say, nephew? For me?" Luna asked him with pleading eyes. 

The Prince could only sigh in defeat as he lowered his head. "Fine, for you, auntie." He then went ahead and took one of the menus from the reception. "Yikes! Have you seen these prices? Can we even afford any of this?" 

To that, Princess Celestia snorted and chuckled before putting the menu away. "Oh, sweetie, normally I would be against taking advantage of this, but we are royalty. Our presence alone brings in customers." She then pointed to the entrance, where a long line of eager customers was starting to form. "As such, we don't pay. So we can pick the whole package if we want…which I highly recommend so Lulu can have a chance to rest properly." 

"Thank you, sister." Luna answered. 

"Well, what about you? You really can pay for all of this?" Blueblood asked Rarity and Fluttershy with a raised eyebrow to which Rarity showed him her pass.

"All expenses covered!" she practically sang in her excitement, "We can get pampered with the whole package for free, which we intend to use to its fullest!" 

"See? Problem solved," Tempo says before giving Blueblood a towel and a bathrobe before starting to push him until he entered the stallion locker room. "Now go change, dear! There is a whole day of pampering ahead of us!" she exclaimed before she and the princesses went to do the same in the mares locker room. 

"A spa day, AND a chat with the Princesses themselves! Can this day get any better?" Rarity questioned before looking at the menu again and suddenly getting worried. "Oh, this place has hot springs, but they are unisex..." 

Fluttershy's eyes widened the second she heard that as Rarity turned to look at her. 

"Fluttershy, if you don't want to go there, I will…" 

"I will do it!" Fluttershy cried out in determination before looking at the receptionist. "I will take the whole treatment package too." She then goes back to Rarity, who looked at her in a mix of confusion and surprise. "You saw how Blueblood looked and acted? He looked scared and tired, the poor thing. He needs our help…so, I suppose I could try some new things this time." 

Rarity nods in understanding. "Ah, that explains it. You are right, dear, that poor stallion could use our expertise to help him relax," she said with conviction before chuckling and looking at her friend. "Always the kindness, aren't you, dear?" 

Fluttershy could only chuckle nervously and cover her face with her hair to hide the small blush on her cheeks. “Yeah…just a little bit of kindness”
> Neither Blood Nor Moon... (RB, Pheti And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After agreeing to spend time at the spa, the rest of the day became a blur for the prince. At first, he had reservations about the whole ordeal. Still, after giving the massage a chance, the prince had no difficulty letting his worries drift away and could finally enjoy peace and quiet. That was something that, in retrospect, he had desperately needed now that the voice in his head had finally gone away.

Sighing in relaxation while remaining in a secluded corner of the hot springs, Blueblood looked up to the setting sun, no longer caring that the day was spent. His mind was at peace and slowly driving him into slumber.

“Pathetic.”

With a start, the prince opened his eyes. He looked around for the source of the distorted voice that had just spoken to him, only to find that no one was there; not only that, but the entire hot spring also seemed unusually deserted.

“After all your hard work reclaiming your crown and showing your subjects why they should fear and respect you, what do you do? Pamper yourself with luxury and forget all of your promises?!”

The voice kept speaking. Blueblood could make out some shadows moving back and forth around him like a shark circling its prey.

"Who's there?!" Blueblood demanded, getting up and charging his horn in preparation for any attack.

“You ungrateful, spoiled brat! I was wrong about you. I thought you could be better, but in the end, you only created a cardboard copy of your predecessor."

The voice kept taunting him until, from the fog, a silhouette appeared and marched toward him. “And to think I even called you my nephew!”

At that moment, the individual made herself known, and the prince could see Princess Luna staring at him with disappointed, milky white eyes. “I wish you had stayed dead.”

With a start, the prince woke up and fought to regain his balance as he splashed the water of the hot springs everywhere until he managed to calm down and hold his pounding heart with his right hoof. That, however, left him unable to see the approaching pegasus heading his way.

"Blueblood?"

With a small yelp, the prince turned around only to find a concerned and scared Fluttershy looking back at him with a towel on her head. "Are you okay? You seemed scared a moment ago, and I…" she tried to approach him. Still shaken by his ordeal, the prince backed away from her.

"I-I'm okay, Fluttershy, just ahem… holding my breath underwater. Yeah, that is it!" he quickly said, looking back at her with a smile, "You probably saw me gasping for some air, that is all," he dismissed what happened with a chuckle. "How was your wing massage? Did you enjoy it?"

"Don't try to change the subject," Fluttershy cut him off before he could say anything else. "And please stop lying to me," she pleaded. "Blueblood, I know something is bothering you; we all see it. And it is more than just lack of sleep." Before he could back away or protest, she grabbed his right hoof with both of hers. "We want to help you but can't if you don't let us. Please, Blueblood, just like I trusted you when you guided me during the masquerade, I need you to trust me and tell me what is keeping you so on edge," she made her case and gave him a hopeful smile, maintaining eye contact.

"I…" The prince looked down in shame and sighed, deciding to accept his fate and come clean, unable to think or formulate an excuse or even have the willpower to do so. "…I don't know what is happening to me," he confessed, looking at Fluttershy again, "A couple of weeks after you and Pinkie Pie left, I started having these random bursts of emotions-" Suddenly, the prince had to hold his head as a searing bolt of pain shot through it.

“What are you doing?!… You fool!… Don't you dare utter another word!”

"Blueblood!" Fluttershy went to his side and placed her wing on his back, leaning his head against her chest as he continued. "Feelings of…anger, jealousy… what is so great about her day anyway?!" The prince had to pause to ride the pain out. "This can't be from Nightmare Moon… it can't …she is my aunt… I met her; she wasn't like that. I… I'm fine; I have everything under control," Blueblood mutters.

"You are anything but fine, Blueblood! You need our help! If you let Princess Luna enter your dreams…"

"I said, I'm fine!" Blueblood snapped at her, backing away before being surprised by her expression of anguish and fear. At that moment, the prince realized what he was doing and looked at his reflection, gasping when he saw the image of his aunt looking at him in disappointment. "What is happening to me?" he questioned while Fluttershy slowly approached and gently placed his head against her chest.

"It's okay, Blueblood. I'm here now."

"Fluttershy… I'm so sorry. Please, help me," He begged, looking into her teary eyes.

"We will, Blueblood. I promise."

After some time of Fluttershy comforting him and letting the wave pass, they headed into a secluded private room that the princesses reserved explicitly to treat his condition and where the rest of his family and Rarity were now waiting for the two to explain.

"Are you sure this is gonna work, auntie?" Blueblood looked at Luna with a small amount of concern as she performed some breathing exercises.

"Absolutely, dear nephew. The symptoms you have been manifesting so far match the description of a Tantabus," Luna elaborated, not wanting to disclose so much in front of Crossfire Tempo, "A type of creature that wanders the dream realm and creates nightmares in their victims to feed on of their fears… It is also a creation designed to act as my penance," Luna mumbles the last part while looking away.

"What was that?" Blueblood raised an eyebrow.

"It is of no importance. Dear, for now, all we need you to do is close your eyes and try to sleep," Celestia instructed him while patting Blueblood's head. "We will take care of the rest after that."

"I don't know, Auntie, I'm tired, yeah, but after what happened in the hot springs and knowing that I might have some sort of parasite that gives me nightmares… I'm not sure I can sleep that easily," Blueblood replied uneasily, looking unsure while lying on a massage table surrounded by aromatic candles.

"Oh, you will sleep, alright!" Tempo boasted in confidence as she approached with a smirk. "As the owner of the number one spa in Equestria and an expert on the art of rest and relaxation, I can guarantee you will sleep like a baby." Moving another table next to his, Tempo hopped on. It didn't waste time bringing the prince into her barrel using her wing as an improvised blanket and ruffling the feathers of her wings slightly.

The moment that happened, a sensation of softness bombarded his body as he had never felt before. The strong perfume that Tempo was wearing had an unusually calming effect, resulting in him fighting a losing battle against drowsiness.

"So… soft… so relaxing," Blueblood managed to utter those words before falling asleep right in front of everyone, surprising the princesses with how quickly Tempo managed to accomplish her role.

"There you go, ladies, nice and ready. It's time to use your magic now," Tempo looked back at them with a smile.

"Ah, Miss Tempo, how exactly did you…?"

"Sorry, your highness, that is a trade secret," Tempo said before getting more serious. "For now, there is work to do."

Luna nods and charges her horn to start their work.

Meanwhile, back at the castle, Caliber said to the blood sample, "Okay, let us see what you truly are," Before carefully collecting a small portion. "Nurse!" he called without breaking eye contact with the sample on his wing.

"Right here, doctor," A blue unicorn mare in nurse garb responded before approaching with a beaker full of a transparent liquid for him to drop the sample in, then heating it with magic. At the same time, Caliber used a glass laboratory spatula to stir the contents.

In a matter of seconds, the liquid changed colors into a neon hue, and much to their surprise, small white, shining dots imitating a starry night sky appeared. "There you go! Now I found you," Caliber informs the sample as he takes note of the changes.

"What is it, doctor?" The nurse asked him, intrigued by the reaction.

"Ever since the prince's blood turned blue, I have wondered what caused that sudden change and how I could not detect it until now," Caliber explained with a smile. "As I suspected, residual magic resembles Princess Luna's flowing through his veins.

"Isn't that a bit redundant, doctor? I mean, he DID absorb magic from the moon itself," The nurse replied with a raised eyebrow.

"Ah, but therein lies the question, Nurse Radiance. What kind of magic rest on the moon?" Caliber asked her as he retrieved a new sample from the now resting beaker before mounting it on a slide and setting it onto a modified microscope's stage. Besides the rack for samples, the device had a crystal ball surrounding it and a series of lights spread out underneath. "After all, Princess Luna wasn't the only mare moving it for over a thousand years, right?" Once the sample was placed, Caliber turned on a white light, and the sphere was engulfed in a rainbow of moving colors as he observed the liquid's contents.

"Interesting, it looks like this type of magic is denser than Princess Luna's. Other than that, nothing seems out of order, except… wait… is that?" Suddenly, the sample started to screech and turned into a purple mist that violently shook the sphere.

"Nurse! Containment!" Caliber instructed in fear as he flapped away just as the sphere cracked, the mist almost reaching his face before being stopped by a force field cast by his assistant.

"Got it!" She moved the whole apparatus towards a containment unit made of metal and reinforced glass before sealing it inside. The mist continued to struggle to get free of the box.

"How… what is that thing?" Radiance asked in fear as Caliber slowly approached it. "Whatever type of magic, the moon has it inside its core." His eyes widened in realization. "By Celestia, I know what it is… and it must consume the prince as we speak!" He exclaimed in fear as Caliber took another sample and flew away from the infirmary, Radiance in hot pursuit. "What? What is it, Doctor?!" she asks, equally scaredly, as she follows behind. But rather than answer, the Doctor kept frantically searching for the princesses or a guard who might know where they were.

"Hare! Bunny! Where the hay are those guards?" Caliber kept calling for them as he flew around the castle.

Back at the spa,

Tossing and turning, Blueblood convulses as tears form in his eyes. “Don’t go gently…into the night… no… that is not why I did it! Please… don’t… don’t leave… I’m sorry!”

Waking up from another nightmare, the prince tried to stand up only to feel two hooves on his shoulders, pushing him down again, followed by a familiar voice. "Shhh, it's almost over, Blueblood; go back to sleep," Fluttershy tried to calm him down; he stopped struggling once he saw her face and then laid back on the table.

"Flutter… shy?" the prince said, still half asleep, looking at her, confused, "Are you… crying?" Blueblood raised an eyebrow when he saw her face more clearly and even heard her sniff.

"Don't be silly, dear; why would she cry?" Rarity asked as he turned to his left and saw her smiling. "You're just seeing things, probably from fatigue. Just go back to sleep," she encouraged him while Fluttershy petted his head. Blueblood didn't know what was happening or why his friends were acting so strange, but his tired eyes felt heavy until he finally relented and went back to sleep. The second that happened, Fluttershy sobbed and looked at the princess in both worry and anger.

"We can't keep doing this to him!" she wailed out in sorrow. "Don't you see he is suffering!?"

"It will be worse if we stop now," Luna replied, ending her spell and massaging her temple while standing up. Although the session put Luna's worries to rest when she didn't find any trace of Nightmare Moon, whatever seemed to cause the prince's affliction was conscious enough to have an advanced sense of self-preservation.

"This Tantabus is quite different from the one I created. Not only has it gained enough power, but it has started to take over his emotions. It can also detect when somepony enters his mind." she sighs with a mix of fatigue and irritation. "I managed to corner it into Blueblood's deep subconscious where it can't cause any more nightmares, but that will not last. The time has come; the parasite has nowhere to escape; I must go one last time and…" Luna's legs trembled before giving out. The alicorn would have hit the ground if not for the intervention of Celestia, who immediately rushed to her sister's side after returning from moving the sun and moon. Putting her neck in front of hers, she managed to catch Luna and help her stay on her hooves. "Looks like I arrived just in time."

"Sister, I have good news. The Tantabus is trapped in Blueblood's subconscious, where it can't haunt him with nightmares anymore. Once I dive in…"

"… I'm sorry, Lulu, but that is not going to happen," Celestia shook her head and guided her to an empty massage table, and despite Luna's complaints, managed to lay her there. "You have used the same spell to enter Blueblood's mind too many times. It is clear that you have reached your limit and are in no condition to make the jump anymore," Celestia tried to convince her. At the same time, Luna fought her sister, trying to stand up, only for Celestia to push her down with a hoof.

"But our window of opportunity…"

"…Will not go to waste," Celestia interrupted with a determined look, "I will go instead."

"What?" All the mares look at her in surprise.

"Even though this isn't my specialty, I can still cast the spell. You've done enough already, Luna; I can take it from here." Celestia gave her a reassuring smile and tried to turn away, but Luna grabbed one of her hooves.

"Sister, surely you jest! While I appreciate your concern, this isn't like any other dream you have explored. What you are suggesting is venturing into the deepest and darkest corners of a pony's mind, the most bizarre and unpredictable places in the realm of dreams," Luna warned her, "Do you even have any idea of what could happen if you explore that kind of place without the proper guidance?"

"No, and that is why I need you here doing just that." Celestia countered and tapped her temple, "With the mental link, we can maintain contact, and you can walk me through what I need to do and be alert of."

Luna looked to the side, considering what Celestia suggested, unsure if she should let her do it.

"Please, Luna, trust that I can do this." Celestia pleaded with her. After more consideration, Luna sighed and gave a tiny nod before turning to Rarity and Fluttershy.

"On the condition that you take Rarity and Fluttershy with you."

The mares in question looked at her in surprise once she said that.

"They have some experience in dealing with this sort of thing before, and they can help you catch the Tantabus," Luna explained, "Plus, the three of you can keep each other in check if any of you start to lose focus."

"You can count on us, princess," Rarity nodded with determination.

"Even though the idea of going into the deepest, darkest, and scariest place in his mind is something I would prefer to avoid." Fluttershy shivered at the idea alone before gulping and looking at her in determination. "But if it helps Blueblood, we will gladly help."

"It is decided then. Ms. Tempo and I will stay here and keep you posted on any developments. Be on your guard and tread carefully; remember that once inside, the Tantabus will know you are there and will do everything in its power to trick you and escape," Luna instructed them as both mares got closer to Celestia, who kept looking at her questioning her decision but ultimately relent to her conditions.

"We will keep that in mind. Sister, for now, rest and try to regain as much energy as you can," Celestia advised her before creating a semi-transparent bubble that surrounded herself and her companions, leaving only their silhouettes before shooting a light beam connected with Blueblood's horn.

"Good luck, princess," Luna mentioned before standing up without any problem and smirking. "You are gonna need it."

"Weren't you supposed to be tired?" Tempo looked at her, confused by her actions, "And what is with that remark all of a sudden?"

"Oh, don't worry, Tempo, you are about to find out," Luna casually told her before pointing at the mare and charging her horn. "But right now, there is a message I need you to pass along…"

Inside Blueblood's mind,

Appearing inside a pillar of light, Celestia took a moment to recover her balance before looking at her companions. "Rarity, Fluttershy, are you alright?"

"We’re fine, princess, just a tad bit dizzy," Rarity shook her head alongside Fluttershy before the two looked around the place. The encompassing darkness around them swallowed up the light from Celestia's horn.

"Is this Blueblood's subconscious?" Fluttershy walked backward slowly towards Celestia in fear. "It looks different from when we helped Luna."

"Not quite; our minds need a bit of time to adjust. Once they do, everything around us will fade in." Celestia kept gazing into the darkness, and just like she explained, soon, an old wooden floor started to fade in beneath their hooves. Some planks seemed loose or burned down, revealing steel bars underneath the holes and creaking at the smallest pressure. Old books and pages were scattered all over the place, and in the far corner lay rows of bookshelves stocked with books, jars, and discarded fabric hugging the room's cracked and eroded marble walls. A twin pair of iron bedframes spread around the room with thin mattresses and metal desks with medical tools in silver plates lying next to them, completing the image of an abandoned clinic. A single window in the far left corner showed nothing but darkness. The only light emanated from the weak flames sputtering on dying wax candles on iron plates and the bookshelf.

"There we go," Celestia announced as she scanned the room.

"I liked it better when everything was dark," Fluttershy confessed, leaning on Celestia for support.

"I agree with you, darling; this infirmary is simply dreadful! So depressing and dark; what could have caused Blueblood to imagine this kind of place?" Rarity recoiled after touching the beds with her hoof. "Ew, ew, ew! The beds are even covered in dust! Seriously, who could work in these kinds of conditions!?"

Luna, can you hear me? Celestia tried to contact her sister, only to be greeted by silence.

Luna, are you there? Celestia kept trying until a scream from Rarity broke her concentration.

"Princess!"

"What? What is happening?" Celestia and Fluttershy rushed to her side, only to find Rarity pointing at an operating table where none other than Princess Luna woke and held her head in pain as she slowly regained consciousness.

"Lulu?" Celestia slowly approached her sister with suspicion, alert in case this was a trap.

"Tia?" Once Luna saw her sister as her vision cleared, her eyes widened, and she rushed to her in worry. "What are you doing here!? Wait, if you are here, then that means. Oh no… no, no, no, this is bad!" Luna kept chanting as she pranced back and forth in worry until Fluttershy tackled her to the ground with a hug.

"It's okay, princess. It's okay; we are all here; just breathe."

While that was going on, Celestia took the opportunity to scan the mare and confirmed that it was indeed Luna, which only added to the confusion. "By the stars, it’s you, Luna," she then glared at her in annoyance, "I told you to stay with Blueblood and rest!"

"Sorry to disappoint you, sister," Luna replied, regaining her breath and looking back at her. "But the mare who you spoke with wasn't me," she confessed fearfully, "When I dove into my nephew's dreams while you were moving our celestial bodies, I encountered a trap made by the creature. It tricked me into following her here, where she then ambushed me with an attack from behind," she huffed in annoyance and embarrassment for failing to see such an obvious trap.

"Wait, all those times; you were fighting the tantabus after that…?" Fluttershy asked in fear at the realization.

"…it was the creature using my body to cast more nightmares into our nephew to feed and keep weakening his mind so I couldn't reach him," Luna confirmed with a sigh. "And if she tricked you into coming here too, that can only mean one thing."

"It has gathered all the power that it needs," Celestia answered for her, understanding the situation and looking up to a rising blood moon creeping way up in the window, "And just got rid of the final obstacles in its way..."

Back in reality,

Dr. Caliber and Nurse Radiance were escorted by a platoon of guards and entered the room in the spa only to find it destroyed with unconscious guards spread out all alongside Tempo, who lay on one of the beds. A big red sphere was set next to her, showing the princesses and the elements inside, looking around an abandoned infirmary and a giant hole in the ceiling.

"No! We're too late!" Caliber yells before rushing to Tempo to inspect her wounds, sighing in relief when he discovers that she only has some scratches and a small burned patch of fur on her stomach; nothing too serious now.

"Don't touch that!" Caliber warned a guard who was about to touch the bubble, "That is the Nightmare Opera spell of Blood Moon, and unless you want to be sucked inside of it, I suggest you keep your distance!"

Groaning in pain, Tempo slowly woke up, catching everyone's attention.

"Ma'am? Ma'am! Can you hear me?" One of the guards asked her, approaching slowly.

"Yeah," Tempo weakly replies as she slowly stands up.

"Ma'am, I need your help. Do you know who did this to you?"

"Oh, I know," she answered before looking at him in worry, "But I don't think you will believe me if I tell you."

"Why is that?"

"Because the mare that did this was Princess Luna. She started to talk weirdly and afterward attacked me. She told me to relay a message to Twilight Sparkle," Tempo gulped and looked at the bubble. "She said, 'This time will be different.'"

After the initial shock, the guards immediately went on high alert. "We need to inform Princess Twilight! Send a squad to retrieve her immediately! Tell her that in an emergency, Nightmare Moon may have returned!"

"No," Caliber simply replied as he stood up. "It's worse than that. I don't have time to explain, but I need to see the princess and tell her what I discovered," he tells the guards urgently.
> ...Just Nightmares (Edited by BS and Pheti)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"In the core of the moon is what?!" Twilight yelled alarmingly at Caliber as Pinkie poked the sample he showed them as soon as they arrived, as aggressive as ever.

"The real culprit that made Nightmare Moon into, well… the Nightmare Moon that we know from the stories. This is sentient, concentrated, envy, resentment, and anger, your highness." Caliber repeated before passing the chart to her. "At some point during her banishment, Nightmare Moon must have sealed some of her emotions into the moon itself for some reason and left it there when she came back. I still have several questions that remain unanswered, the most pressing of which would be why she did that. However, from what I can gather from my findings, all those negative emotions have just woken up. They are now feeding off the prince's fears and have caused this mess. To make matters worse, it appears to be growing."

"And you let my god-nephew toy with that kind of power?!" Tempo screeched at Platinum and Puddinghead, who, after hearing the news, took on the role of temporary rulers and assessed the situation the best they could to prevent mass panic amongst the citizens, making it clear that they were just doing this to aid Twilight and her friends and let her focus on the more significant issue at hoof. "He was just re-learning magic! How could you let him toy with something like that?"

"Blueblood's situation was special, and he was making substantial progress in his training." Platinum replied calmly. "Not once did he ever manifest any side effects during his testing other than the unusual growth of his mane." She then looked down in shame. "There was no way any of us could predict that this would happen."

"Yeah, he was in complete control all the other times before, during, and after the transformation. Plus, I trained him to expect the unexpected in any way, shape, or form. For those emotions to act like this right now, it doesn't seem logical," Pudding added, "Should I have used bigger pies?"

"Are you serious?!" Tempo startled both mares with her scream, "A shadow mare is draining my god-nephew as we speak. Your daughters are trapped in some hellscape inside his mind, and all you can say is that you didn't think this would happen?! HE transforms into a pony of shadows, for pony's sake! What is wrong with you?! Listen well, you two, founders or not, whatever happens next will be on YOUR heads," She proclaimed, raising an accusing hoof at both mares.

"Okay, everyone, chill." Rainbow flew by and got between the horses, trying to calm everyone down. "Let's not play the blame game here. Yeah, things are bad, but come on, Tempo. Even the most calculated of moves can still fail." She tried to reason with her. "As the founders said, mare, that is still weird to say," Dash mumbled before continuing. "They practiced, trained, did all they could, and then this happened." She shrugged with a smile. "It can happen to the best of us. It's just part of life."

"How could you be so calm in a moment like this!?" Tempo asked, astonished at how chill Dash was, only for the element of loyalty to blow a raspberry into the air and wave her hoof dismissively. "It is not such a big deal; the first time we defeated Nightmare Moon, we barely knew the elements. We are stronger than ever; our friends have defeated tougher villains than her. This isn't even the real deal; it's just some residual magical emotional thing that Princess Luna left on the moon some time ago. Erasing this thing will be a piece of cake," She boasted confidently.

"Did you forget the part where this one is smarter? Or that it has Blueblood's unique spells at her disposal? And it was clever enough to trick the princesses and two of our friends into a trap?!" AJ glared at Rainbow Dash and her attitude. "She not only managed to take Princess Celestia and Luna out of the picture, but without Rarity and Fluttershy, we can't use the elements."

"Which is why the first thing we need to do is to go into that subconscious land thingie and rescue them so we can kick Nightmare Moon's flank again," Rainbow countered back at her friend.

"I don't think it can be that easy, Rainbow Dash." Caliber shook his head before explaining, "I have studied the subject of the subconscious land before, and from what I have learned, that place is ruled by a bizarre and constantly changing set of laws. Where things can go from friendly to violent in an instant. I'm unsure if the elements could work there or if they can reach you once you are inside."

"Even so, Rainbow is right; we need to stop Nightmare Moon, and to do so, the first thing we need to do is find a way to rescue our friends," Twilight responded.

"Excuse me, darling," Rarity and Fluttershy walked into the throne room, much to everyone's surprise, "but I think the princesses have that covered already."

"Hi, girls," Fluttershy weakly replies, hiding her face behind her mane before they are brought into a group hug, which Pinkie quickly initiates and interrogates.

"How do you escape? Did you just escape? Did the princesses escape, too? Did Blueblood help you? He helped you escape you, didn't he? Where is he? Is he fighting Nightmare Moon now?" She kept asking questions a mile a minute until AJ put one of her hooves on Pinkie's mouth to stop her rambling.

"Well, darling, it's a curious story, to say the least." Rarity then recapped what happened after they encountered Princess Luna.

"You mean to tell us that we can't get out?!" Rarity confirmed with the princesses in alarm.

"In the most dangerous and scariest place in the dreamland?" Fluttershy added, shaking like a leaf as she started to look around, fearing something that might pop out and attack them at any moment.

"Calm down, you two," Celestia instructed them both, "I know that things may seem bleak right now, but I assure you, we can solve this problem. I took the liberty of placing a small contingency plan in case something like this happened."

That last sentence caught the mares' attention as they all turned to look at Celestia.

"Before we departed, I had grown suspicious of Luna when she suggested I bring you along after she warned me of this place, and I couldn't risk endangering your lives so recklessly, so when I encapsulated all of us, instead of bringing you with me, I teleported you to Canterlot castle as a safety precaution. You have a physical body here right now, thanks to a projection spell I cast in conjunction that targets all of your senses." She calmly explained to the two.

"Well done, sister. Thanks to your quick thinking, hope still exists to turn things around." Luna praised her with a nod before turning to Rarity and Fluttershy ."Listen well, you two. While it is true that my sister and I are trapped inside this mindscape, we can traverse it and find our way out with relative ease. So don't worry about our well-being, and focus your attention on stopping the Tantabus," Luna instructed the two.

"I hate to admit it, but when I first encountered her, I felt sorry for the creature and, as a result, lowered my guard, thinking that her eradication would be easy." She looked around the infirmary. "Do not make the same mistake I made when confronting the Tantabus. Be on your guard and shoot on sight. She might not be Nightmare Moon, but with her smarts and my body in her possession, the stars only know what that creature could do."

"And what about Blueblood? What is going to happen to him?" Fluttershy approached the two worriedly, "Is he trapped in here as well?"

"There is a good chance of that being the case, unfortunately." Luna nodded a couple of times. "The Tantabus most likely brought him here to keep feeding off his fear. This place enhances one's fears and mutates them into horrors born out of the imagination."

Both mares gasped at this revelation.

"Which is why you must leave this place at once and leave his rescue to us while you confront the Tantabus in the real world." Luna urged them as Celestia ended the spell, making their bodies slowly fade away.

"Listen, Blueblood has a tracking spell in place; I'm almost certain that the Tantabus took him with her if only to keep her influence on him and prevent Luna and myself from escaping, so finding their location should be easy. Just ask any guard in the palace; they know the spell." Celestia instructed the two friends.

"Time of the essence, go and save Equestria before my past sins come back for a second time around." Luna mentioned as the vision of the mares turned blurry.

"After that, we woke up and rushed here as fast as we could when two guards told us that you were all here." Rarity finished their story.

"And the royal guard has already been informed, and we stand ready to assist your highness." Garra added as she and her sister walked into the room, showing some wear as she had a bandage wrapped around her head. In contrast, her sister had some minor bruises, and her rear hind leg was bandaged as well. Despite all this, they didn't show any discomfort as they marched towards the group and bowed respectfully to Twilight.

"Privates Garra and Daga, reporting to duty, your highness." Garra introduced them both before rising to salute.

"Ah… just Twilight is okay." Twilight replied, not entirely sure of how to respond to the arrival of the two bat ponies.

"Understood, Miss Twilight," Garra nodded immediately after the two relaxed their posture.

"Allow us to introduce ourselves properly; my sister and I briefly served on the prince's security team." Daga informed the rest of the group before looking down in shame. "The events that transpired today happened under our watch. Which makes this disaster our fault."

"Don't kick yourself that hard there, sugarcube. You weren't the only guards there and were facing off against a Tantabus with Princess Luna's magic, not to mention that you were caught off guard, no pun intended. A mare with that power will be tough to beat, so there is no shame in losing against her." AJ consoled the two.

"Be that as it may, our guard honor is tainted, and we seek a way for redemption." Daga quickly replied, "That is why we are requesting the opportunity to assist on your mission."

"You want to come with us?" Dash asked with a raised eyebrow, "No offense or anything, but, as AJ said, this Tantabus is not something you can beat without the elements, not to mention you are still injured, so maybe you should sit this one…"

"…We're not looking for a rematch, Rainbow Dash," Garra quickly interrupted her. "What we are suggesting is a rescue and extraction mission." She clarified.

"The prince is still under our care, so we must protect him." Daga elaborated before pointing to her ears. "With our advanced hearing, we can track the prince faster and get him out of harm's way."

The comment got everyone's attention.

"A simple exploit of the diversion you would cause while keeping the creature busy. My sister and I could sneak in, rescue the prince, and cut off her food supply."

"And why just the two of you?" Tempo inquired with a raised eyebrow, "Wouldn't it be better if a squad of six or seven ponies went to his aid?"

The twins only shook their heads. "When it comes to infiltration and rescue missions, blending in is key. Many guards will stand out too much, so it will be better if only we go. So please, Miss Twilight, let us come too. Let us have a chance to redeem our past mistakes." Garra pleaded to Twilight once more.

"They make a good argument, Twilight." AJ looked at her friend, "I say we let them come too."

"We really shouldn't let Blueblood face that scary mare alone." Fluttershy added.

"Yeah, plus I know what it's like to let your team down; I say we let them tag along." Dash replied with a smile while everyone waited for Twilight's reply.

"It's your call, princess," Platinum called out from the throne. "We will respect your decision regardless but just know that those two are the newest recruits to the royal guard, and they don't have the years of experience. Celestia and Luna's security had." She referred to the same guards on duty at either side of the base of the throne, also injured but stoic and ready to listen for new orders. "They have shown potential, but they are still impulsive, inexperienced in the field, and seem to have little in common sense with how they wish to return to the line of fire when they clearly should be resting." Platinum listed off while glaring at the two recruits, disappointed in their actions. "Will you still give them a chance in the face of all that? Do you trust they will be able to follow orders?"

"Of course we…!" Daga was about to protest when her sister jabbed her in the ribs before glaring at her urgently so as not to spoil their image even more. Platinum looks at her with a raised eyebrow and a neutral expression. Daga just remained quiet and waited for Twilight's decision.

"I…" Twilight was about to reply when suddenly, Puddinghead interrupted her.

"Sorry for interrupting, but maybe we should hurry things up slightly." She pointed at the window, and everyone gasped when they saw a spheric shadow creeping from the side of the Moon at a decent pace.

"Is that… an eclipse?" Caliber questioned with worry as his sample started to trash around more violently. "The Tantabus is starting her plan. We don't have time to waste!"

"He's right, Daga, Garra, you can come with us; just be careful and stay out of sight."

"Understood!" Both guards saluted in unison.

"Caliber, that sample is getting stronger. I need you to go to Ponyville and give it to Starlight so she can destroy it before it hurts somepony. Tell her to take Spike with her for extra help so she can message me if anything happens."

"At once, your highness." Caliber bowed and then left the room.

"Princess Platinum, Chancellor Puddinghead, could you keep things here under control while we are gone, and if anything happens, could you organize an evacuation?"

"Consider it done, although as Celestia's apprentice, I trust in your capabilities, young Twilight."

"Yeah, don't sweat the small stuff. We can look after Equestria for a bit, no problem! Go and save the day like you always do!" Pudding confirmed with a big smile before her expression turned urgent. "Just hurry up in doing it!"

"You don't have to tell me twice." Soon after, everyone sprung into action or flew off from the throne room following her lead. "Garra, Daga, you said you know where the Tantabus is; how long will it take us to reach her lair?"

"Not much, ma'am; she went straight to where Nightmare Moon fell for the first time," Garra responded.

The ruins of the castle of the two sisters

Admired the moon as a glowing horn eclipsed it. The figure of Princess Luna with milky eyes laid back on a repaired silver throne with a smile on her face as her plans unfolded. 

"Ah, eternal night, such a naive, simplistic, and boring concept, don't you agree, Blueblood?" Closing an eye and looking to her left, she saw the prince standing still with a thousand-yard stare and a look of concern on his face.

"What's the matter, Blueblood?" Nightmare mocked concern before using her hoof to nuzzle his chin. "Too scared to speak? Ah, that's right; you are still under my influence." She chuckled lightly before grabbing his jaw forcefully and made him look at her. "Bet you would like to hear me now, wouldn't you, you ungrateful brat?!" She relaxed her hold and expression before bringing him into her chest and gently stroked his hair like a cat. "Oh, Blueblood, what will I do with you?" She started to cackle for a moment and then let him go. "Indeed, what am I going to do with you? True, you ignored me and tried to get rid of me!" She choked him for a second before dropping the prince on the ground as she brought one of her hoofs to her chin. "But also, you were the first pony that wasn't afraid of me, and you are the reason I was able to escape the moon in the first place."

Leaving him on the ground, she starts to pace back and forth. "Hm, decisions, decisions." Nightmare kept weighing her options until an idea dawned on her, and a sinister smile crept onto her.

"Maybe I was too harsh on you, honey." Nightmare petted his head once more as her eyes shined with white light. "Perhaps there is still a use for you in my new empire. You only need proper grooming and guidance." Her horn glows brighter as her teeth become fangs, and her body shifts into the form of Nightmare Moon as he whimpers in his sleep. "Don't be afraid, sweetie; I will take proper care of you, molding your mind, showering you with affection, give you the counsel that you so desperately need. In short, a far better aunt than either Luna or Celestia ever was. So close your eyes and listen to my voice as your ruler sings you a lullaby."



As she sang, the walls of the room were covered in darkness. From them, glowing eyes started to appear, followed by images of monsters and demons emerging from it and slowly approaching the prince like wounded prey about to be pounced on as he lay still on the ground, his eyes closed soundly asleep. A purple mist slowly rose from the floor and crept around the prince as a flock of bats swallowed the light with darkness. The fog made its way to his nostrils and mouth, making him choke and cough violently until his eyes snapped open wide awake, and his pupils shrank to pinpricks.

Soon after, his entire body convulsed and reshaped itself; the sound of bones snapping and muscles popping echoed through the hallway as his groans of pain gave way to animalistic growls of anger and hunger that made the creatures of the night take a step back.

The prince stared back at the shadows briefly until, with a lighting reflex, he struck at them with fangs and claws ready as Nightmare kept singing, a satisfied smile on her face as she admired her work on the creature of the night before her until nothing of the old Blueblood remained.

When the last shadow was gone, the new Blueblood looked at her and growled with menacing, piercing red eyes before turning around and fleeing the room. Nightmare's voice echoed in the hallways as the prince kept growling and barking like a beast until he finally reached the top of a tower and smashed through to the rooftop. Laying on the roof, Blueblood looked at the moon before rising and then let loose a mighty howl in front of a full moon.
> Journey To The Subconscious Part 1 (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Soon after reaching the Everfree forest entrance, Twilight and her friends didn't waste any time and marched straight to the ruins of the two sisters' castle where an unexpected sight made them all stop and take a double-take at the scene before them. The once ruined and decrepit structure now stood tall, brand new, and imposing, without a single trace or hint of having been taken over by nature, a completely new floor made the palace even more prominent. The most worrying sign of all, the stairs leading to the basement were nowhere to be seen and instead were replaced by a floor of dirt.

"How in tarnation did Nightmare Moon fix this place so fast? Not even Twilight's magic could do something like this…can it?" AJ turned to her friend with a raised eyebrow though Twilight only shook her head, still looking at the structure in surprise.

"It the prince's original spell" Garra answered keeping her eyes on the castle "With Nightmare Opera, Nightmare turned the entire castle into a den of dreams, the moment we enter she can dictate what is real and what isn't" She then turned to Twilight "We need to step lightly your highness, elements or not. If we are not careful, we will end up in the same mindscape the royal sisters are currently in."

"Ah Twilight, you wouldn't think that Nightmare Moon also turned the elements into a dream so we couldn't use them…right?" Fluttershy questioned prodding the dirt floor, confirming that it was real.

"Come on, Fluttershy. We are talking about the elements here," Dash hovered over her. "Even if she tried, it took Discord thousands of years before his magic did something to them, and that was when they were divided, now the elements are stronger, complete, and are growing."

"Rainbow Dash is right, Fluttershy. When it comes to magic, even if they were affected, it would take a long time before anything could happen." Twilight eased her worries, before looking at the castle with determination. "Ok, everypony, we don't know what's waiting for us inside, so we won't take any chances, let's call for the elements and march in. Daga, Garra, we will give you an opening. Once inside, look for Blueblood and get out as fast as you can."

"Yes, ma'am" They saluted and took a step back as Twilight and her friends got closer and called upon the elements. Still, before anything could happen, the group was blasted by an energy beam that sent them all crashing into the castle entrance before they heard the familiar crackling of Nightmare Moon coming from Rarity and Fluttershy of all ponies as their bodies turned into mist and merged together before forming a gate from which the mare of shadows stepped through.

"Foolish ponies, who dared to oppose my will."

"Nightmare Moon?!" Twilight questioned, astonished by the revelation as the mist keep creeping towards them

"Did you think that I wouldn't be prepared for any of your tricks?"

"It was you all along? You were just pretending to be our friends so you could capture us all in one move?" Rainbow Dash asked, flaring her wings in anger.

The nightmare only continued to laugh and shake her head. "And like the gullible sheep you are, you took the bait, hook, line, and sinker." Nightmare gloated. "Originally, I was planning on keeping you all apart as much as possible so you couldn't use those annoying elements on me. But after seeing the latent potential that this spell has and knowing how persistently annoying you all can be. I decided to allow you to join them instead of keeping you apart."

Rainbow tried to make a run at Nightmare, but fog appeared in the entrance stopping her moments and making her back away. She didn't feel any sort of impact either, just an invisible force that wouldn't let her advance, as Nightmare looked at the display with glee

"Welcome to the subconscious realm, ladies. A place where the elements of harmony can't reach you, and without my guidance, it's impossible to get out, feel free to explore, try to escape, or reunite with your fellow inmates. It won't matter in the slightest. There is no way to escape unless I say so." Nightmare Moon announced with a smirk before turning around as the mist closed in. "Let's see if you like being trapped for a thousand years."

Opening her wings, she prepared to fly away when suddenly the ground started to shake, making everyone lose their balance.

"What?" Nightmare Moon was confused by the rumbles before crystal roots burst forth from the ground, encapsulating the castle in a holed dome with a rainbow light covering every single hole in it, effectively preventing anyone from leaving. Nightmare demonstrated this when she tried only to be bounced back as a result. "No, no, no! This is impossible! I sealed you away. You shouldn't be able to use them now! I closed off your connection with the elements!" Nightmare screeched, completely livid from what happened, she tried to pierce the barrier using her magic, with no effect whatsoever. "I was so close! My empire was within hoofs reach! This isn't it happening! I'll not be denied again!"

"Tough luck, Nightmare," Dash smirked at her, "Told you, the elements were stronger."

"Of course! Over the years, the elements have grown in power and wisdom, and now that they are reunited once more. Even if we can't use them, they will never let the likes of you conquer Equestria." Twilight explained confidently, making Nightmare growl and look back to them.

"Listen to me carefully Twilight Sparkle, you may have trapped me, but all of you are in MY world now. And here, my word is the law!" She then grinned and lifted off once more "I could dispose of you with a mere thought right now, but that would ruin the special nightmare I created just for you, straight from Blueblood's mind." She claimed before flying upwards. "Try to find your friends! I will love to see what happens." Her laughs echos were the last thing they heard before the fog made it impossible for them to see anything else.

"Well, so much for a surprise attack," Daga sighed dejectedly as her sister inspected the place, trying to distinguish anything in the fog that was currently surrounding them.

"Aw doesn't feel bad, Daggy, you'll see, everything will be all right. Things didn't go according to plan the first time we faced Nightmare Moon either." Pinkie console and cheer her up before bringing her into a hug. "Do you remember the cliff?" she asked her friends.

"Yeah, it was scary how Nightmare almost kill us that time." AJ nodded, remembering the event.

"What about the bridge? You think the Shadow Bolts will appear here and ask me to join them again?" Dash joked, lifting their moods too. "Not that I can blame them, I'm just that awesome."

"I remember how scary it was when Nightmare Moon destroyed the previous elements of harmony" Twilight mentioned with a smile "But then I remembered all that we learned that night and how the elements weren't pieces of rocks with magic inside, but instead, they were in all of us."

The friends share a group hug "Thanks, Pinkie. We needed that small pep talk."

"Anytime Twily, I'm sure we can think of something."

"Yeah, you always do sugar cube, no pony knows about anything more than you. If anyone could think of a plan, it would be you."

"Well, I have studied the subconscious realm in the past. I wondered if I could use it to study while I slept."

The comment earned a knowing groan from everypony present. "I know, I know. I shouldn't do so much of that. But if there's something I learned from the experience, it is that it has a very peculiar way of doing things. It kind of obeys the wishes of a pony but in a subtle matter. If we all keep thinking of finding the princess and our friends, this place will lead us straight to them, but it will not be immediate. It's finicky and acts at random sometimes, but it always delivers."

"There you go, Twilight! See? I told you, you could come up with something" AJ praised her as the fog started to clear.

"Hey, why don't we ask that guy for directions?" Pinkie pointed in front of them, and they noticed how the room they were in had changed much more than they initially thought. Instead of a regular hallway, the group found themselves in a graveyard outdoors, bursting with tombs spread all over the place and overgrown by nature. A dead tree stood in the middle of the grounds, and a pony stood groaning and panting from exhaustion, with unkempt, ragged white mane and tail paying no attention to them as he was busy chopping something on the ground using a long-handled ax. He was wearing a black stetson, a ripped and decrepit black trench coat, and a dark grey scarf with old and dirty bandages draping everywhere on his body.

"Hi," Pinkie said as she approached him, but Daga and Garra extend their wings to stop her advance, and they shook their heads before slowly taking out their weapons, eyeing the pony carefully as he was finished chopping an empty suit armor

"…Traitors, all over the place…" The pony started to speak, seemingly not noticing the group yet "…You'll learn to bend the knee, sooner or later…" He slowly turns to face them, revealing how his face was also bandaged and exhaled slowly, letting out a long gout visible breath as the temperature plummeted.

At that moment at the base of a staircase leading to the entrance of a gothic cathedral

"Everypony stay alert, and whatever you do, do not interact with anyone." Luna ordered the group before looking ahead of her while continuing to scan the location for threats. For her part, her sister took up the rearguard as they kept moving in a straight line after discovering what Nightmare Moon had done to them.

"Are you sure you know where we are going, princess?" Rarity kept taking the occasional glance to all the ponies roaming in all directions around them...none of them with a face. Other than the occasional wardrobe choice, there were no discerning details on their bodies. They all looked identical to the point where she couldn't tell if they were mare or stallion. "All these faceless ponies are making me nervous, and not just because of their awful choice in the wardrobe." She pointed out looking at the ragged and dirty clothes everyone was wearing at the time from head to hoof, in what appeared to be sets of clothes from the fifth century, for the common class. "Seriously, it's like they all fought with a porcupine and lost." She complained as they continued their march.

"A…Are you sure none of them will hurt us, princess?" Fluttershy inquired, still trembling from the scene all around them.

"As long as you don't interact, all of these ponies are nothing more than daily afterimages."

"Afterimages?" Rarity looked at the princess with a raised eyebrow.

"Like residual memories from what you saw during the previous day" Celestia answers for them "Think about it this way, when you go out for a walk around ponyville without any objective in mind, do you remember every single pony, pet, or other species that pass by you? Regardless if you know them or not?"

"I'm not so sure, to be honest." Rarity finally replied after she and Fluttershy thought it over for a while.

"Which is normal, unless you had a particularly sharp photographic memory. Having the perfect recollection of everything you see directly or indirectly would be impossible. At most, you would have some vague silhouette and maybe one or two details, and that is what all these ponies are"

"Which is why you must be cautious and do not look at them for too long." Luna butted in with a strained sense of urgency, "It will be wise to consider all of them as ticking time bombs."

"What?" The group looked at Luna in surprise at this revelation

"This is one of the dangers of the subconscious land. Afterimages are like blank pages waiting to be filled, pay too much attention to them, and you fill those pages with the very first thought that crosses your mind, be it good or bad, and so they will be. They are the actors that appear in the background of all of your dreams, be pleasant ones or dreaded nightmares, and if we are very unlucky, we might even face the main star of the latter. Wich with Nightmare Moon on the loose and influencing our nephew, nightmares will be all but guaranteed." Luna warned them as they reached the double doors leading inside. "We are here."

"What is the plan, Luna?" Celestia inquired, walking to her side.

"I trust that all of you have heard the expression 'Dreams are windows to the subconscious.' Am I correct?"

They all nodded

"Well, said window works in both ways, and even though it's not an actual window, dreams, and the subconscious have an actual point of union. If we can find it and cross over, I can regain control over my nephew's dreams and severe Nightmare's connection with him."

"Which means that the location will be heavily guarded, right?" Celestia confirmed the reasoning with Luna's logic as her sister merely nodded.

"Be ready everypony, this is our only way out, and to defeat this evil, we will have to be prepared for anything." Luna coached them before opening the giant set of double doors revealing a twisted version of their throne room with murals depicting Nightmare Moon instead of the history of Equestria. What appeared to be a large shrine stood at the back of the room and a pony mare kelt before in the center crossing, praying.

Fluttershy gasped and started to approach "Oh my, did Nightmare capture another…?"

Luna unfurled her wings and arched her back in alarm, "Do not be deceived! That is a nightmare!" Luna yelled, Celestia and Rarity followed her lead and prepared their horns for combat.

Meanwhile, the mare just kept mumbling her inaudible prayers before she started to sob and held a gold watch in her hoof bringing it close to her chest before suddenly raising her head in the air while letting out an ungodly wail as her body shifted and transformed right before their eyes until she became a massive blind werewolf-like creature with antlers, swathed in bandages who slowly turns around and growls at them.

With a start and doused with cold sweat, the prince woke up before hearing the cackling of Nightmare Moon near him as he slowly stood up, trying to maintain his balance as he watched through two sets of full body mirrors how what he just dream turn into a reality judging by how the events were still progressing within the mirrors as Nightmare admired them from her throne.

"Such magnificent nightmares, such beautiful creatures of the night you have given me. You are certainly of my blood, sweetling." She praised him with a warm smile while with a flick of her wrist made both mirrors turn to fog and dissipated from existence.

"What…what just happened…so much rage…what did you do to me?! What horrors did you make me create?!" The prince demanded in a mix of horror and anger at her.

"Made you?" The mare asked in mock confusion, exaggerating her moments and even bringing her right hoof to her chest for effect "Oh sweetling, the only thing I did was unlock your true inner self in a dream, and brought it into reality." She stood and walked towards him before poking his forehead as her expression turned malicious. "What you created was all your own doing."

The prince swatted her hoof away as she went back to her kind face. "It felt good, didn't it? Getting all that pent up frustration out of your system? Finally, finding out what type of pony you are…knowing that for a brief moment, you truly were a pony of shadows." She kept speaking while circling him with a predatory grin. Blueblood closed his eyes and looked down. Fits of rage from for what she did to him and shame from seeing what he looked like inside shook him.

"Admit it, deep inside your heart. You liked the freedom that I gave you." Nightmare whispered into his ear, but when he did not respond, her demeanor instantly turned aggressive, "I say, admit it!" She ordered him once more.

"Are you insane! You expect me to be happy with what you just made me do!?" Blueblood replied defiantly, glaring right into her eyes, "The only thing you did was force me to live out my worst nightmare!"

"Still, refusing to accept yourself?! Perhaps I woke you up too soon. Maybe you need another song." The prince's eyes went wide in surprise and horror as Nightmare came closer "Or maybe just creating nightmares wasn't enough, and what you need is to be a part of them."

"No! Don't you dare Nightmare I swear if you make me hurt my friends or my aunts…"

"I'm your aunt now!" She slapped hard across the muzzle, sending him to the floor in a fit of frustration before taking a deep breath and calming down. She then knelt and helped him stand up to look at him with a sad expression, "Oh my poor misguided heir, why do you keep making me hurt you so much?"

The prince wanted to reply, but the mare had him paralyzed under her magic "Have those mares conditioned your mind so thoroughly that you don't see the shadow they are forcing you to live in?" She ended the spells and started to walk away from the prince. Who still glared at her angrily until the light around him faded. Finally able to move, Blueblood looked up and saw a giant statue of Celestia blocking the sun and putting him literally in her shadow. "Haven't you ever stopped and asked yourself, what is your role with them? Do you think she has a grand plan for you too?" Nightmare questioned, pointing at the statue. "When I took Luna's body, I also took a peek at her memories, and let me tell you. The future doesn't end well for you."

He started to consider her words before realizing what was happening. Shaking his head awake making the illusion fade out with a poof of smoke and returning them to the throne room "You are lying, nothing here is real, you are just using my spell against me, and this is just a bad dream" The prince turns around to see her, but she was gone.

"And what do you think is the core of this bad dream?" Nightmare questioned, reappearing behind him in the form of mist as she kept whispering into his ear. "Nightmares don't just appear from thin air, without rhyme or reason." Blueblood spun around, but she vanished again. "Every nightmare comes from a gathering of guilt, of fear, or of trauma. And there is always a kernel truth you don't dare to see or want to expose inside them."

"Shut up," Blueblood hissed out angrily.

"Don't you want to learn what your aunts refuse to tell you?"

"I said, Shut UP!" The prince blasted her with magic the moment he saw her only to destroy a wall and make a hole to another room.

"We need to do something about that nephew of yours..." The voice of Luna caught the prince attention, as he slowly stepped inside the room revealing a foggy version of Celestia's bedroom were both mares were discussing something in the middle of the night "...he claims to love us, but all of he does is mooch, guilt trip or scheme so he can always, ALWAYS have his way." Luna continued to fume at her sister

"Huh?" The prince looked at them, confused as he hid behind Celestia's bed, out of instinct and curiosity about what they were saying, making him not notice the tendrils of Nightmare Moon altering the memory as he kept listening.

"Fine. You win, Luna. You are right, he is a petulant little monster, and he needs to be taught a lesson. I'm not blind. I simply allow this because his behavior was my fault."

She walked toward her windows. "The little snot was once my pet project for the future, a prominent candidate to succeed us once we retired. But when I saw the utter failure he was. I decided to make preparations for plan B, Twilight Sparkle."

"Which solves the problem of who will rule after us, but leaves his fate up in the air…"

Celestia brought her hoof to her chin "Perhaps not sister, tell me something. Wouldn't it be just wonderful if he were to have a change of heart or rather, of soul? One that would be of great use to Twilight?" Celestia asked in a sinister tone. Which snapped Blueblood back to reality as he looked behind him.

"NIGHTMARE!" He stopped his hoof on the ground and enforced his will on the scene, causing everything to disappear with a poof of smoke as he returned to a now-empty throne room with the mare of shadows laughter echoing through the hall beckoning him to follow.

"Well, spotted, dear."

"I will not be deceived by your tricks anymore!"

"Perhaps not, but I only tampered with half of that memory."

"It will not change a thing regardless. I know how I was before. Whatever they discussed was more than fair."

"Oh? And what about your current self? Do you think they now wish you to have the crown? Twilight is still a prime candidate, what does that leave you with? Hmm? Celestia was particularly eager to take you under her wing and pretend that you were her family when she heard that story, doesn't that raise some questions?"

Feeling an invisible force, the prince started to march towards the dark hallway. "Why don't we go find out?"

As he advanced, he did his best to ignore Nightmare jabs "She is just lying, she is just lying, she is just lying" He kept chanting while exploring the castle.
> The Six Interpretations (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Look out!" Rainbow Dash yelled before swooping down and hoisting Pinkie into the air, away from the manic ax-welding pony who didn't waste time attacking them when he saw the group.

"What in the hay is wrong with that pony? He is probably at least a hundred years old, wounded, and even blind! How can he move that fast?" Dash asked, perplexed by the lightning fast reflexes the pony had as he continued to growl and thrash at them while swinging his ax like a crazy stallion.

"Don't know. I'm more focused on not having my head chopped off!" AJ exclaimed as she used her lasso to try and take the ax away from him. Though, the pony revealed a long metallic tube held in his other hoof that held a horn inside of it, making both her and Pinkie gasp when they saw it. "Is that…"

Pinkie barely muttered out before a shock wave of magic burst forth, almost blasting the two mares away. However, they were saved with the timely intervention of the guards who pulled them out of the way, leaving nothing but destroyed tombs where they were seconds before.

"That pony has a severed horn inside that weapon!" AJ yelled in shock, "Twilight, be careful!"

The princess in question raised a shield in time to prevent another attack from the weapon before the nightmare jumped backward and zigzagged to avoid another attack from Rainbow Dash, before lashing out, forcing Rainbow back as he returned pressing his advantage and swinging his ax wildly. Garra saw an opportunity and took it, tackling him into the ground, before jumping back.

"We are only tiring ourselves out. We need a plan." Twilight called out to her group.

"Agreed, miss Twilight! My sister, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and I will keep him busy. You try to find an escape route." Daga told her before joining her sister and deploying two daggers from her armored horseshoes and started attacking. Her blades scored several small slashes on his body before quickly disengaging, flying away before he could retaliate. Simultaneously, her sister used two hidden swords mounted on the base of her wings to do the same, leaving a trail of ice behind each attack.

When the nightmare wound up to lash out with his weapon, Daga threw a small weighted dart at his wrist trailing behind it was a thin metallic string that led back to her horseshoe. Once it connected, she unleashed an electric discharge which stunned the enemy.

"What the hay? are those new kinds of weapons?" AJ asked them both, impressed by what they just did.

"Standard royal guard weaponry…with some small arcane enhancements granted to us by scoring top ranks in our psychology and physical tests." Garra answered before narrowly dodging away when the nightmare jumped and almost split her head in half with the ax. The blade buried itself into the ground before it was torn free, flinging a cloud of dust up and into Garra's eyes, blinding her and leaving her vulnerable to the follow-up strike from the steel-capped butt of the weapon. AJ tried once again to disarm their opponent and take the horn cylinder away. Still, the nightmare grabbed her lasso and spun, pulling the unprepared mare off her hooves, AJ found herself airborne for a moment before being slammed into her friends, sending them crashing against the tree.

"Ok, is it me, or is he getting faster?" Dash asked, her worry edging into her tone as they recovered from the last attack, scrambling to their hooves before he could attack again.

"…Ah, what's that smell" The nightmare started to talk as he stalked towards them. "Is it fear? The core of any nightmare, it's calling for me…begging to be born!" He started to laugh maniacally as his attacks became more and more unpredictable.

"Twilight! Tell me you found a way out!" AJ yelled out in near panic for how little control they had in the fight as her friends desperately tried to find any way to escape but could only see more of that dense fog that kept pushing them back.

"Don't worry, partner! We can take it from here" To everyone surprise, AJ's voice replied to her question as a blast of magic streaked out from within the fog and hit the monster square in the forehead, stunning it and making him take a stagger back before snarling and turning to face the fog as a humanoid version of Applejack and Rainbow Dash stepped out of the misty shroud, Applejack held a smoking revolver in one hand and a music box on the other. She still wore her hat. However, there was a silver star woven into the hatband. Complementing her hat was a long brown poncho, blue jeans, and two holsters for her weapons. On the other hand, her companion looked more like a robot with steel skin, turbines built into the edge of her wings, and a blue uniform. Her head was protected by a red helmet covering her eyes and showing some of her rainbow mane.

"Hey, Gascoigne! Does this sound familiar?" the Anthropomorphic Applejack taunted before starting to play the music box, forcing the nightmare to stop and hold his head in pain. This distraction gave enough time for Anthro-Rainbow to rush at him at maximum speed, sending Gascoigne flying with one punch that seemed to catch fire just before it sent the monster into the air, before chasing the turbines in her wings whining to life. She blurred up in pursuit and continued her assault, tossing Gascoigne around like a rag doll faster than the eye could track, finally ending her rush with a devastating kick to his face that rammed him right into the tree.

"BOOM! Goes the dynamite, go Rainbow, go Rainbow, you just got burned, old-timer!" Anthro-Dash continued to celebrate even after she had returned to the ground until her companion smacked her on the back of the head. "Can you gloat after we rescue everyone?" Anthro-AJ scowled at her with a glare,

"Buzz-kill," Anthro-Rainbow mumbled before her arm opened up and turned into a cannon and blasted the nightmare with a beam of fiery energy, giving Antro Applejack time to grab her counterparts' hoof. "That will not stop him for long, come with us!"

"Ah…Eh…wha…what is happening?" Dash tried to process what was happening before looking to Twilight for an answer, yet she had a similar reaction to Anthro-Applejack.

"There's no time, sugar cube! We'll explain on the way! Or would you prefer taking your chances with him?" the Cowgirl yells at the group, pointing behind her as the monster's silhouette howled and thrashed around as light started to leak from him like he was about to explode.

"Point taken," Garra nodded and, along with her sister, helped to drag everyone out as Cowgirl Applejack, and Robo Dash rushed them towards the fog. The latter running ahead and using her speed once more, dispelling a chunk of the mist in one punch, opening a path for the group to escape before it could reform, leaving the monster behind just before he exploded into a beast-like creature, dispelling the fire all around him.

At the same time with the royal sisters.

"It's no use. More just keep coming!" Celestia shouted to Luna as she blasts yet another werewolf away from the group. Soon after they started their fight, the royal sisters managed to take advantage of the situation by continuously blasting the antlered beast away from them, as Rarity did her best to restrain it using her clothes against the werewolf. At the same time, Fluttershy kept searching for the connection point they were looking for.

Everything seemed fine, and they start to gain some confidence when the creature began to crack like it was made of crystal. Still, their victory was short-lived once more copies of the same creature burst from the frescoes and halted the groups advance through with sheer numbers until, inevitably, a tipping point was reached and they were forced back. With their backs literally against the wall, Luna had just completed erecting a powerful force field. At the same time, Celestia tried her best to keep them at bay.

"I don't get it, none of our nightmares were this bad before, not even the Tantabus was this strong" Rarity looked at Luna with concern, "Why are these nightmares different?"

"Because my nephew's mind is that of a human, and unlike ponies, his dreams work differently from ours. and with Nightmare Moon feeding them with my magic, it would be logical that they would be far stronger." Luna glared at the monsters through her barrier before looking around "This is a lost cause, Tia! We need to retreat and think of something else while we still can."

"I second the motion!" Everyone look at Fluttershy confused when they hear her voice in the distance despite that she was right next to them, she only shook her head before, from the front door, thousands of giant arrows streaked forth, perforating a sizable portion of the nightmare creatures, making them turn their attention to the entrance where an enormous gray wolf was holding a sword stood next to a humanoid Artorias, Ornstein, and Smough. The four then rushed inside and engaged the beasts immediately.

"The Terror Knights?" Luna questioned out loud in confusion by their sudden arrival.

"Hurry! While they covered us," Fluttershy's voice was heard again, but when they looked back, the group saw a bipedal version of her clad in green armor and blue clothes underneath it.

"Fl…Fluttershy? But…how? if you are…?" Rarity asked, confused by what was happening, looking back and forth between the knight and her friend.

The wolf's cries alerted them, and to their horror, they saw how never-ending the waves of monsters truly were. They were slowly overrunning the knights, who were only holding on due to the second volley of arrows that came from the distance.

"There's no time; just trust me!" Anthro-Fluttershy yelled at them in worry before pulling a rope to hold everyone together. Then she extended her fist towards the knights and wolf, who turned into mist that blew straight back to four rings on her fingers. She then opened her hand and extended it to the ground where a lamp sprung up from it like a plant. It suddenly lit up with white light. Soon all of them vanished into the light before any one of the creatures could slam its claws into them.

Twilight's group continued following their new allies sometime later, stepping into a narrow and deserted cobblestone alleyway. Rainbow finally had enough and flew in front of them. "Ok, I think we waited long enough, time for some questions, who are…?" Cowgirl-AJ covered her mouth and pushed her against the wall before pressing herself against it as well. Robo Dash shushed the rest of the group and followed suit, gesturing them to do the same.

Pinkie nodded eagerly and compiled while everyone else followed suit in time for them to hear what sounded like two beasts fighting in a life or death struggle as the earth shook as the conflict continued. Several minutes passed until the ground stopped moving and they heard faint horse steps fading into the distance until the group couldn't hear anything else. Stepping outside everyone's face turned green at the sight before them, giant claw marks and signs of the struggle could be seen everywhere, scorch marks and still burning fires were spread out in all directions as well as gaping holes, making the whole area look like the aftermath of a fire. In the middle of the plaza, most disturbing of all, lay a massive charred corpse twitching in the street. From what could be seen, that wasn't buried beneath the destroyed houses. It had six-arms, with a spheric, half-eaten head that was riddled with holes that continued down its chest.

"Sorry for the rough treatment partner, but we ain't exactly out of the woods yet. So to speak." Cowgirl Applejack apologized before advancing again "Everyone keep your eyes peeled, something worse than those nightmares is on the hunt around here," She whispered harshly, instantly bringing the twins to full alert. The pair calmly moved to guard the rear, and lightly pushed the group into a single column.

"Just hold your questions, a tiny bit longer, ok rookie? Trust me. The rider is something you do not want to face. He preys on those things, for pity's sake." Robo Dash pointed at the corpse, "If that doesn't give you an idea on how dangerous he is, I don't know what will."

"What could it be capable of killing something this big?" Twilight asked fearfully though also slightly intrigued by the nature of something so big. "Hmm, it's clear that he used some kind of piercing weapon. The holes are too clean and straight to have been left by a stinger or a horn. A lance, perhaps? No, they are too big, maybe a ram with a pointy end? But to leave so many holes at once, he would have to move an incredible speed, which is highly unlikely considering the size it must have. It almost contradicts itself, and then this fire? Did the rider cause it? Or was it the creature? The pattern follows some of the trails back to its victim, but these other scorch marks… they almost look like explosions." She speculated.

"Don't try to overthink it, ok? We mean it, the rider is quite possibly the most dangerous thing around here, even the pest that started this mess avoids him." Robo Dash warned her as they turned the corner and began to cross a covered stone bridge where they stopped halfway through, and then Cowgirl AJ knocked on one of the walls in a specific pattern. The final tap opened a hidden door that led to another path. The door swung silently closed once the group was inside. The path led a short way to another set of doors.

"Welp, we're here." Cowgirl Applejack opened the last set of double doors made of marble so the group could walk inside what appeared to be an abandoned church claimed by nature without pews, instead, having rows of pillars along each side of the room were covered by a layer of flowers, as well as chunks of the marble floor. A long pointy door frame in the far wall leading to a dense garden and, in the back, two sets of spiral stairs with another set of doors at the top lead deeper into the building. "Don't worry about any attacks, sugar cube. No nightmares can reach this place."

"And what is this place, exactly?" Dash hovered in place as she looked around.

"Gwynevere's Dream," Luna answered, and the group soon found the princesses and the rest of their friends coming from the garden accompanied by a bipedal Fluttershy. "Hello everypony, although the circumstances are less than ideal, it still nice to see you all in good health."

"Princesses, Rarity, Fluttershy," Twilight smiled and rushed towards them alongside her friends to join in a big group hug, elated to be reunited once more.

"How did you get here? Did you create those versions of ourselves?" Twilight looked at Luna in interest, who merely shook her head in response, "Just like you. These dreams came to us in our time of need." Luna turned to regard the counterparts that were greeting each other. "Although my magic did play a part in their creation, I can't take credit for them."

"What do you mean, your highness?" Applejack wondered, ending the hug.

"Who are those mares?" Garra looks at them still wary and on alert.

"And why do they have a bipedal shape?" Her sister followed suit, scanning the place and the princesses if they were facing another trick."

"Stand down and be at peace, private." Luna was quick in attempting to calm them down. "Although your suspicion isn't without merit, Nightmare would not gain a single thing from saving you right after tossing you into a trap in which she was expecting you to perish." She pointed out-earning their attention.

The twins looked at one another, still unsure, and then turn to Applejack for help who looked back at them.

"She is not lying sugar cube and raises a good point, why save us when she wants us gone? If she wanted to toy with our minds, she could have simply left a path to escape that crazy stallion back there."

They thought about her words carefully for a while before nodding and relaxing their posture. "That still leaves us with who are those ponies." Garra looks back at them.

"And if none of you made them, or this place, then who did?" Daga look around the building in confusion.

"For whom they are, you could say that they are mental representations. Twisted, and bizarre images of my nephew's loved ones. In here it is normal to have many ideas for the same pony, each representing an exaggerated version of the qualities they see in them. Although these are different from what I have come to learn about."

"Wait, so that is why my clone looks like a robot?" Dash pointed at her copy perplexed, as the princess nodded.

"As for who created this sanctuary and the interpretations that defend it, well…that is more complicated to explain." Celestia looked up to gather her thoughts, not sure how to explain what they discovered.

"Perhaps I could be of assistance your highness" The voice of Twilight got everyone's attention, and when they looked up towards the sound, they saw her and the rest of her friends walking downstairs to meet them. They were also bipedal, with Rarity wearing a diamond tiara, a pastel white and purple formal dress complete with voluminous sleeves and purple lipstick. A thin light purple scarf was draped over her shoulders with her cutie mark embroidered on its edge, elegantly walking and waving to the crowd like she was making a grand entrance to a ball.

"Welcome to our humble abode darlings. It's so wonderful to see that you could all make it in good health."

"Well, I say, Blueblood seems to understand me." Rarity kept looking at her copy, feeling flattered by the prince's interpretation of her. "And I have to say that the dress simply looks divine! I must ask him if he, by chance, has some skill in fashion."

Next to Rarity counterpart was Twilight, wearing a long green robe on top of a long black dress with a turtleneck, a witch hat, some small glasses, and a necklace on the top of her turtleneck. "Maybe a visual aid will work better than just words." Witch-Twilight suggested while continuing their descent from the staircase. "Besides, it will probably be best if we clear everything up before explaining the plan."

"Ah…Why does Blueblood think of me as a witch?" Twilight raised an eyebrow in confusion "I mean, I dressed as one once for Nightmare Night, but I never told him about that."

Ahead of both of them was Pinkie Pie, who was sliding down the stairs' railing without a care in the world. She looked like some sort of DJ, with only one headphone on her right ear, dreadlocks instead of her ordinarily wobbly hair and tail, gathered together in a bun, making an odd ponytail, robotic blue legs, with rollerblades for shoes, a pink workout shirt without sleeves and what looked like some sort of sonic cannon in one hand.

"Hi me!" DJ-Pinkie waved at her copy, who replied with eagerness, "Would you like to have a dance party?"

"Would I?" Pinkie was about to take her up on that offer when Cowgirl-Applejack lifted her up, holding her sides, like a doll. "Sorry, partner, can't afford to get sidetracked, and you need to see this" She carries Pinkie to the middle of the room as they both awww in disappointment.

"Bizarre interpretations indeed your highness," Garra commented. They followed Witch-Twilight, who marched towards the middle of the room while extending both hands, to levitate a big chunk of the foliage and debris from the floor, revealing an engraved circle beneath it.

"And you haven't seen the half of it yet," Luna replied in a worried tone.

"I suggest you prepare yourself, what you will see next might surprise you" She warned the original group before her horn and hands glowed purple as she took control of the flora. They all began to move their roots before moving towards the circle and started to spin around and upwards until they wove a hollow pillar of flora with stairs leading to the roof.

"Twilight and I can explain things from here, the rest of you go to the meeting room and wait for us, we will be there soon enough" Knight-Fluttershy started to issue orders confusing the group as Cowgirl-AJ let go of Pinkie Pie, and they all left for the second floor.

"Ta-ta darlings! See you soon." Formal-Rarity waves at them before leaving, her friends not saying anything else, and Pinkie just jumps around the walls to ascend rather than using the stairs.

"Ok, that was weird," Dash whispered to Applejack while she only nodded.

"This way, please," Witch-Twilight pointed at the stairs as she and Knight Fluttershy entered and started their ascent. The rest of the group carefully followed behind. Once they reached the top, the ponies found themselves in a vast library whose walls were so distant that they couldn't be seen, all around were shelves filled with books, all the shelves, and the surrounding furniture appeared to be reclaimed by nature. The image alone was enough to make Twilight squeak in delight while her friends just gasped in shock.

"I know, right!? This place looks incredible, I mean, I'm not so sure what to think about the grass everywhere, but the books seem nice, and the air feels dry and clean... maybe it copies the properties of a dry forest, giving the place an air of fantasy, not to mention…" Celestia stopped her rambling with a giggle by putting her hoof on top of Twilight's back. "I believe they were referring to that Twilight," She clarified with a smile, pointing to her right.

Following her hoof, Twilight soon gasped as well. Her jaw hit the ground when she saw a giant bed in the distance, but more importantly, how on top of the bed was a giant anthropomorphic Nightmare Moon soundly asleep. Curled up with a tiny red moon in her hands that was cracked like an egg revealing a purple mist inside, she was wearing a clean, simple, and long blue dress—a golden tiara on her forehead resting underneath her horn. A delicate semi-transparent blue cloth ran down her well kept and extended wings and long black sleeves. Her mane and tail were unusually long and straight, only occasionally moved in a nonexistent breeze. Some children's pictures depicting her and Blueblood were spread all over the headboard on her bed, and into some in a bookshelf beside it. "Everypony, meet our creator and the architect of this safe haven for dreams and memories alike. Blueblood's interpretation of Nightmare Moon made entirely from the portion of Luna's magic that he took from the moon." Witch-Twilight then turned to them with a knowing smile "She's the key to solving all of our problems in one swift move."
> Journey To The Subconscious Part 2 (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After checking that no one was using the room, the day's monarch entered, closing the curtains and locking the door before kneeling in front of the bed, finally letting go of her mask to whimper and cry.

Not too far from her, Blueblood watched her sob in pity before closing his eyes in anger and then turned away. "Are you enjoying this Nightmare! Seeing my aunt suffer pleases you?! Is that why you are showing me this?! You are pathetic!" He yelled at the darkness only to be a slammed into the ground for his troubles as Nightmare appeared in front of him pressing her hoof against his neck

"Watch that tongue, young man, before I rip it out," She warned before pulling away and pointing at Celestia once more, "You think she's so perfect and wise and lovable? Let's see if you can still say that after you see this."

"Another nightmare? You think it will be that easy to turn me against my own family?" To Bluebloods confusion, Nightmare only smirked at him before vanishing in a puff of smoke again. "Not this time, as my heir, you would see right past that. No, this right here, sweetie, is Celestia's true face."

Without warning Celestia began to scream to the four winds as her horn discharged a massive wave of magic, making the prince do a double-take at her actions as she kept sobbing for a bit longer before standing up and walking out of the room, marching back to the main hall, while everything else remained still.

"What…what did you just do?" Blueblood questioned as Celestia stopped to see her sister approaching her room occasionally sniffing. "I'm so sorry, Luna. I thought I learned when I sent you away" She put her right hoof on her cheek, "I tried, I really did, and yet once more, I doomed another loved one into an eternity of torment." She wiped a tear from her eye. The drop remained in the air as she advanced.

Blueblood regarded the tear still in mid-air without moving until his eyes widened in realization. "She froze time," He whispered to himself before feeling a hoof on both shoulders. 

"Makes you wonder, doesn't it?" The prince heard Nightmare's voice in his ear as he tried to push away only to be met by more purple fog. "How many times do you think she has pulled that trick?"

He kept swinging his hooves around, trying to find the mare in question, " On how many occasions do you think when she's been embellish as a brilliant strategist where in reality she only took a 'time out'?" Eventually, he hit something and found a door in front of him being lightly pushed open by Nightmare Moon, who grinned at him "And what line of thinking do you think she has when no pony is looking?"

Confused he watched as Celestia just kept weeping at his frozen version, while continuing to pet Owlowiscious "This isn't right, it wasn't supposed to be like this" Celestia confessed earning the attention of Blueblood "I wanted a star over but not like this, not this way" She cleaned her face before glaring at the prince "You may have his body, but you are not him! You are not the colt I raised!"

Her words cut deeply as the prince could feel a tear forming in his eye, "Auntie."

"Wait! It gets better," Nightmare remarked as she forced him to continue watching.

"I…I can make things right, I need to make things right! I'm not going to wait another thousand years! I will fix this mess, right here and now! One day is all I need," She proclaimed to herself before leaving the room, confusing the prince. "Where is she going?"

"Let's find out, shall we?" Nightmare encouraged him, appearing next to him, and pointing forward into the darkness. The prince remained wary of her but advanced regardless as she marched forward next to him.

Meanwhile at the refugee hideout

"Wait, wait, wait a minute. Let's back up a moment here." Dash pleaded to Witch-Twilight hovering next to her. "You are telling us that… that sleeping Nightmare Moon right there" She pointed at the mare in question, "Is the actual Nightmare Moon?"

"If we are going by technicalities, then princess Luna is the real Nightmare Moon," Witch-Twilight remarked as Luna picked up one of the children's pictures to carefully look at it before returning her attention to her copy unsure what to think.

Nephew, is this really how you see me?

"Our creator and the one giving you trouble are more akin to pieces of her magic, both recent and old residual ones. As you can see, ours is the most recent magic that the princess had."

"So, that is princess Luna with the face of Nightmare Moon?" Dash asked again, "Ok, now I'm confused."

"Just think of her as Luna, it makes things easier, although I would hardly consider that Tantabus Nightmare Moon. That other piece is just leftover magic merged with the emotions from an old confrontation." Knight-Fluttershy sighed and then looked out a window, "A fusion that resulted in that, strange semi-autonomous thing." She clenched her fist in anger.

"Semi-autonomous is a stretch Flutterknight. If I were to guess, I would think that she is closer to a parasite." Witch-Twilight clarified equally angered "All she ever did when she appears was deny Blueblood a chance to sleep by haunting him with nightmares and kept whispering in his ear each time he wasn't sure of himself, so she could keep feeding off his negative emotions to regain power and reclaim the memories that made her in the first place."

"Blueblood…why didn't you tell anyone?" Fluttershy whispered to herself as she looked at one of the pictures in pity.

"And once she remembered, the mare didn't waste time trying to complete her original plan, only worse."

"Only worse?" AJ repeated, "What could be worse than an eternal night?"

"Eternal darkness," Witch-Twilight was quick to answer. "This Tantabus might look like Nightmare and think she is the mare in question, but in reality she is just a monster, plain and simple, one with the mentality of envy as the only thing in her head, that is why she is doing all of this. She's just a cheap, twisted and toxic version of everything you have done. She envied your original plan, so she decided to recreate it with a 'better' version of eternal night." Witch-Twilight summarized while looking at Luna as she got even more unnerved.
"She envies you, so she will prove to be a 'better' aunt, to Blueblood."

"She is going to what?!" Celestia gasped in horror.

"And judging by how volatile that parasite is, maternal it not exactly what I picture when I think of her 'being an aunt.''"

"…I'm going to kill her. I'm going to kill her right now! If she dares hurt my nephew, I swear I'm going to…" Luna growled out while starting to flash white and was preparing to leave with her sister not too far behind when the pair of antropormorfic mares stopped them both. "Whoa there, I'm with you, princesses. Trust me, I want a piece of her as well, but first, we need to give back control of this place to Blueblood." Flutterknight kept holding both mares as Witch-Twilight used her magic to prevent them from spreading their wings.

"What do you mean, sugar cube?"

"That is what we were going to say next. She is also envious of Blueblood. For the love he has for his aunts. So when she took over, she also severed the connection he had to our Luna and covered the moon. So Blueblood had no choice but to establish a link with her, or rather, she is forcing him to stay linked to her and refusing to let him become Blood Moon. That is how she made this dome and all those nightmares. She forces him to make them; that is why our creator made us and this place. She's worried sick for Blueblood as much as you are. We don't know how much time left before he starts to snap. She needs to see him and know he's safe again. Do you understand what I'm saying? Our Nightmare Moon is begging you to save him and let her hold him in her arms again. She sent us to find you because she needs your help. We are her way of asking for help." Witch-Twilight explained surprising everyone with the revelation.

At that moment with Blueblood

After walking endlessly through a dark void, both prince and Nightmare finally find Celestia standing in front of a giant black door with some strange purple inscriptions on its frame, surrounded by dead weeds, spiky rocks and most impressive of all, a massive three-headed dog who appeared to be immune to Celestia magic.

"Hello, Cerberus" Celestia greeted the dog with neutrality as the dog just regarded her with curiosity. "Please don't intervene. I have business with your master."

"No, this can't be, she is not thinking…" Blueblood shook his head in horror as, by her command, the dog stepped aside and allowed Celestia in as she effortlessly opened the door with her magic and stepped inside, closing it soon after.

"I…I've seen enough," Blueblood stated, turning around preparing to leave as Nightmare kept taunting him. "Whatever is the matter, dear? Don't you want to see more of your so-called pure aunt? Don't want to see how she heroically…performs shady business? Hmm? If she's as perfect as you think she is, what are you so worried about?"

He stopped keeping his head low and away from the door. "This is exactly how that mare truly is, never owning to her own mistakes. She just feels bad and patches things up. Wash, rinse, and repeat. Like it makes everything ok!"

"Ok, enough!" Blueblood glared at her in frustration, "What the hell is all of this?"

"A thousand years Blueblood! One THOUSAND years. On the moon! Away from everyone for so long that ponies didn't know if you truly even exist. A millennium of her procrastinating and doing nothing to fix the problem. She cast her own sister away, what's stopping her from doing the same to you the very second you step out of line?"

She forced him to look back at the door. "For pony's sake, what guarantee do we have that she isn't preparing this scenario right now?" She bellowed out before showing him small snips of Celestia's memories in the form of floating broken mirrors spinning around him, depicting Celestia as she made her way to a cliff's edge. "Just look at this, look at it, and tell me if she still can be trusted?"

"You know why I'm here" Celestia stated authoritatively to the void in front of her

"I can't allow his soul to leave this place…" A booming voice replied to Celestia as glowing eyes appeared from the darkness and glared at her.

"This…this isn't real" The prince mumbled to himself, "It's just another nightmare."

"…I will not leave empty hooved…" Blueblood kept hearing pieces of memories as she stared down the giant eyes.

"If you truly wish to set him free…" Suddenly the eyes appeared in front of Blueblood, "…what, do you offer in exchange?"

From the surprise, Blueblood took a step back. They both were back in the castle's ruins in yet another room, an abandoned library judging by the books scattered around the two. In the corner sat two big picture frames, one showing Celestia's image, still pristine despite its age, while the other held Luna, reclaimed by nature and covered by fungus. Blueblood was only able to tell because one of her hooves was barely visible near the bottom.

"It isn't fair, don't you think?" Nightmare regarded the portrait of Celestia with a stern eye "We work so hard. We try our best to be accepted, but she will always get the glory no matter what we do." Her gaze turned into a glare before a burst of magic set the portrait aflame. "Why is she the only one deserving of the attention?! What does she have that I don't? If others gave me a chance, I could prove to be a princess just as good as her. No, I can even be an even better princess."

She smiled sweetly and slowly walked toward Blueblood, who only looked down, trying to calm down and reason out his situation, "As well as a better aunt, I can grant you a real future and take all that pain and fear away." She asserted, slowly lifting his chin to look her in the eyes, "Would you be willing to give me that chance?"

The prince stared at her with anger, but beneath that, she could see insecurity and fear "I...I already have a future…"

"Do you?" She waved her hoof around, and the door to Tartarus reappeared and opened, "Care to indulge me by finding out what kind?"

" I told you, I don't want to see more."

Losing her patience she growl in frustration "You stubborn, naive little colt, don't you see I'm trying to save you?!" She forcefully grabbed his right hoof and started to drag him inside "Those mares don't deserve you, I see you for what you are, and I see potential, they see what you are, and see danger and a treat! I have the evidence right there to prove it, and yet you still refuse to see reality?

"I said no."

"I'm done with tolerating your tantrums. You will see that mare for what she is, young man, whether you like it or not, now move it!"

"No!" The prince yelled in anger and anguish, shooting a beam of light at her chest that forced her to let go and take a step back from the suddenness of the attack. Not wasting any time, the prince turned around and fled from her as quickly as possible while Nightmare kept looking in his direction.

"Brave…yet pointless" She sighed, and then light shined out from her horn, summoning hundreds of chains from the ground that ensnared Blueblood and slammed him into the ground immobilizing him instantly. "Please don't get the wrong idea dear, I might love you, but that doesn't mean I'm above disciplining, rebellious behavior." She calmly walked forward as he tried to wriggle out of his restraints until Nightmare was right in front of him with a smirk. "It's almost cute watching you struggle. It seems that you keep forgetting something important, Blueblood, heir, or not you are still merely a prince." She leaned in closer to him. "While I'm your goddess." her horn glowed even brighter, and her eyes began to shine white as well. "A fact that I will be more than happy to teach you if you keep testing... my... patience."

Suddenly, the restraints tightened, and it felt like the gravity around Blueblood was increasing, making the chains heavier by the second. The prince's mind went into overdrive as his adrenalin spiked, and his fear started to sink in. He desperately tried to think of some way to escape, eventually looking at the still-burning painting and coming up with an idea as he closed his eyes and charged his horn. Making Nightmare increases the pressure on him.

"Don't bother teleporting, those restraints will follow suit the moment you try, besides you know I'm right, I can see it in your eyes. You never once asked yourself what will happen to you after you're done cleaning your predecessor's messes. Tell me, did you ever wonder why you wanted wings in the first place? Admit it Blueblood, deep inside, you envy those mares just as much as I do, and you crave a taste of the same power that they enjoy every single day. Tell me, what's so wrong in seeking it out?"

Blueblood's horn stopped shining, and Nightmare ceased feeding the magic into the gravity spell, dissipating its effect instantly. "You are right," Blueblood whispered

The mare started to smile again "Do I finally get through to you?" She quickly dismissed the chains as he nodded.

"The idea of being an alicorn is…enticing. And been Blood Moon felt nice, the rush of power. The sense of confidence and freedom it granted me, I felt like I could do anything."

"Right?" She chirped out, pleased while eagerly helping him rise to his hooves clean dust away from his shoulders and chest. "And there is nothing wrong with wanting to have that sensation in our life. It's Celestia, that's the problem. She's afraid of our potential. She will only shackle all that which she can't control. And we are better than that, right?" She extended her hoof in expectation.

"Right, l already decided that no one will ever control what I can and can't do ever again." She nods eagerly at Blueblood's proclamation, "Not my father, not my aunts" He reciprocates the gesture grabbing her hoof before glaring at her. "And certainly not monsters like you!"

Surprised, Nightmare didn't have time to react as Blueblood pulled her forward into a hug while tipping them both off to the side, grabbing one of her wings with a free hoof as they both fell into a hole in the ground that seemed to go on forever until they reach a river of lava with a platform positioned in the middle of it and giant roots running along the ceiling. Blueblood turned to use Nightmares' body as a cushion, absorbing the impact. Dazed but able to rise, the prince took advantage of Nightmare having to recover from their impact by rushing to one of the four giant mirrors that stood on the edge of the platform and jumping through its surface, leaving Nightmare behind as she glared at her reflection in the mirror he just escaped through. Her fury boiled over, and she screamed out, "BLUEBLOOD, YOU CAN'T ESCAPE ME!! YOU HEAR ME?! NO MATTER HOW MUCH YOU RUN I WILL ALWAYS GET YOU!" Ready to give chase when suddenly the mirrors all burst into flames and from them, earth pony soldiers clad in dark armor stepped through and charged at Nightmare with their long axes, forcing her to stop and summon a dome of magic around her to protect herself from the attacks, as more and more warriors from the three tribes appeared and charged with a lethal assortment of weapons.

"Bringing a nightmare to life now, dear? I'm touched. Even in your defiance, you just keep trying to be like me. Perhaps I will not be so severe with your punishment once I'm done playing with your toy…"

Suddenly, the entire platform shook violently as pillars of fire started to burst from the river below. From the magma, two tall pillars rose and formed an arch where an even more massive unicorn clad in the same type of dark armor, cape, and longsword fell out onto the platform with a gaping hole in the middle of his chest."…soldiers?"

Behind the corpse, a giant bicorn* stepped out of the portal, his mane and tail were made of pure fire. He was clad in melted golden plate armor with a rough emblem of the sun etched into its breastplate. Two prominent fangs were hung down past its snarling mouth, and most disturbing of all, the torso, arms, and head of a human knight with equally melted armor sat, seamlessly fused with the Bicorns back, with each breath the creature took, flames could be seen from its mouths on the exhale. Both of the knight's arms ended in wicked lances. Each one fused to the knight's arms by the heat surrounding the creature. The points of said weapons smoldered white-hot and left a fire trail as they dragged the ground.** 

"You again!?" The Nightmare shouted at the rider.

For its part, the rider ignored Nightmare and started to walk towards the mirror that Blueblood escaped through until Nightmare blocked its path. "Oh no! you will not get to him this time. He is mine now! Do you hear me?! Mine!"

With a murderous glare, the bicorn focused on Nightmare as it flames grew stronger "Niiiiiighhhttmare!!!"

As the fight continued, the prince kept running in the void until an explosion behind him sent him flying forward until he crashed into the ground and looked back in confusion.

What the hell is going on back…no, now is not the time to get sidetracked. Focus! 

Finally, reaching the end of the tunnel, the prince exited into the cold of a desert night where there was only sand around for miles in every direction he looked. The only feature he could find was a dried out, very dead tree in the distance. The tree was big enough for him to rest underneath its roots after finding a hole big enough for him to remain unseen and letting him catch his breath and organize his thoughts. I need to fix this, calm down, think of what Pudding Head taught you. Analyze, assess, and think outside the fireplace. What do I know? I'm inside my head. I'm fighting a hyper-powerful Freddy Kruger who wants to adopt me, and my family and friends are trapped here. No biggie I can fix this, just need to think.

The prince tried to rationalize his situation, but the fear in his heart was still there and the memories he witnessed, making it harder for him to concentrate. Not realizing that said emotions were making everything around him colder.

Auntie…what did you do back there?

The prince start to shake from the cold

Sensing his distress, the interpretations, and the sleeping Nightmare gasped, before approaching the group with more urgency. "We are running out of time."

"What happened?" Fluttershy asked her counterpart in worry.

"It's Blueblood. His mind is in turmoil, which means this nightmare…" Witch-Twilight showed them an image of the city outside as snow started to fall

"…will become even more dangerous very soon" Luna finished in realization and stepped forward with determination. "You are right, Mage-Twilight, the time to act is now. I'm with you."

"Me too," Garra answered, followed swiftly by her sister, who nodded.

"I think we have a grasp of the situation now. Let's work together," Twilight told every one of them with a smile.

"Yeah! It will be like when we helped princess Luna but with Blueblood this time," Pinkie cheerfully replied.

"Good, because what we need you to do requires a lot of trust." Futterknight pointed at the sleeping mare

"That's right. Earlier, you said that Luna's counterpart is the key to our victory. What did you mean by that?" Celestia approached the slumbering mare, intrigued.

"The monsters that the Tantabus made are all enchanted so as to provoke fear in you and grow stronger from it. As you are right now, it will be impossible to get closer to her. And the further we go from our creator, the easier it will be for the parasite to control us." 
Witch-Twilight explained before she tapped the bed.

"But if we work together, we can cover each other's weaknesses. All you need to do is fall asleep in this bed, and Nightmare can provide you with a portion of her magic so the monsters can't feed off you, and the Tantabus will be unable to control us."

"And in doing so…, we will become ponies of shadows?" Rarity questioned unsure about the idea.

"It would only be temporary, and until we bring said magic back to Blueblood, we promise that you would be in complete control the whole time." Witch-Twilight clarified, "Please, we want to help; you can trust us."

Everyone kept quiet, still not entirely sure of what to do until Fluttershy and Luna stepped forward. the latter regarded her counterpart with a seriousness burning in her eyes. "I still have my reservations, but if my nephew trusts you, so will I." She then laid down and closed her eyes on the bed.

Fluttershy only smiled, remembering a small memory of hers "I'm not afraid" She follows Luna's example and lays down, the rest of the group followed suit and tried to relax as much as possible.

"Thank you, everypony," witch-Twilight smiled in gratitude. "Don't worry. The process will be quick and painless" As she said that, the mane and tail of the sleeping Nightmare started to move and cover the group's foreheads with her hair as stars in it moved towards the entire group.

"I will go tell the others, the plan is a go, and to get ready. Tonight the nightmares roam free."
> Journey to The Subconscious Part 3 (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the temperature of the castle kept falling, the monsters of Nightmares kept patrolling the hallways, in search of their prey, none of them aware of how they too were being hunted from the shadows until it was too late, as two humanoid creatures with snakes had their heads blasted or bitten off by a giant wolf as the small group advanced, doing whatever they can to be as silent as possible.

"So, are we back at the castle, or is this just another dream?" Applejack questioned as everything seemed reasonable again minus the monsters roaming the castle. Both she and her friends were now sporting a darker shade in their fur, fangs, reptilian eyes, and waving manes and tails, as well as being taller than usual.

"You could say that you are closer to being awake partner" Her counterpart answered, "Think of this dream like three levels of an underground bunker. When that varmint tossed you inside, she placed you at the bottom of this place. Where she has complete control over space and dictates what is and isn't real. The second sub-level is where dreams become reality. Like the assembly line of any factory, in here, she can turn thoughts into monsters, but that is all she can do. And finally, the first level where we have headed. That's the root source of this whole place, the original dream. In there, things work like any other dream you have visited before princess Luna, so once there, you are home free." Her counterpart explained as they made their way to their destination

So during his fight, Blueblood was using the second level and only moved to the third briefly? Fluttershy pondered, remembering the prince's duel with the Jet Set and Upper Crust.

"Finally, some normality, I was starting to lose my mind with all that weirdness back there" Dash voiced her frustration. "So, if we are back at the ruined castle, then all we have to do now is get the elements and blast Nightmare away, right?"

"Not so fast there rookie, like the Sheriff, said, we are in the second level, and the elements are probably outside the building. The parasite in her paranoia made sure to keep you as far away from them as possible."

"Of course, she did. Well then, I suppose we will only have to fight our way out and then kick her flank."

"Now you're talking my language," Robo Dash and Dash fist-bumped at the prospect as they continue flying.

"This is fascinating," Twilight mentioned as she merged with a close-by shadow. "The nature of this shadow magic is something else. I have never experienced this before, it's oddly soothing, while at the same time invigorating, princess Luna by chance is this…?" Twilight inquired, exiting the shadow.

"…I will stop you right there, Twilight," Luna stopped her with a glare before she leep onto another humanoid snake monster. By the particularly brutal way Luna disposed of it, one could tell that she was venting her anger. Unlike the others, when Luna and Celestia took the magic into themselves, the only visible change in their forms was that their coats became gray. "This is nothing like what happens when I transform. Furthermore, I will appreciate it if we don't discuss the subject at the moment. This is hard enough for me, and I don't want to add more to it."

"Oh…right, sorry" Twilight ears flattened in guilt and embarrassment for almost asking about a delicate subject

"I understand that you are curious, Twilight. I have several questions myself." Celestia calmed her down as they continued on their way. "Maybe we can talk about it when the times are less dire, and we all have calmed down a bit, but for now, we still need to solve this problem."

"You are right, princess. This is no time to get sidetracked." they kept moving until they all reached the throne room. There in the middle of the hall, Blueblood was laid out on the floor, engulfed in a semi-transparent purple tower of mist shaking occasionally.

"Blueblood!"

"Careful now," Flutterknight warned, stopping Celestia as she saw her nephew "That mist is there for a reason. If you touch it or try entering his dreams with that mist there, you will be tossed right back into the nightmare you were before. To say nothing of the fact that the parasite most likely has some form of alarm on it. The moment we try something, she will detect us and throw everything she has at us."

"Meaning this will require delicate touch darlings," Formal Rarity finished speaking for Flutterknight.

"So we need to divide our forces in two, right? One group takes care of the mist while the other buys as much time as possible?" Daga looked back at the entrance alongside her sister.

"Well, actually, we were also thinking of the princess." DJ Pinkie turned to look at Luna, who stared back in confusion. "Your body is somewhere in this level too your highness, soundly asleep as well, and acting as a secondary power source to make the monsters unstoppable."

"The living fart is using you like a battery. It's clear that it will be well defended too, but if a third group goes with you and recovers it, her control will start to crumble in a matter of minutes. That would give us a chance to re-establish order soon after." Robo Dash mentioned.

"I see, the idea is to stretch her attention thin, am I right? Synchronized attacks at equally important targets, so that she has no choice but split her forces, or sacrifice one" Daga deduced

"Exactly" The Sheriff nodded "The first wave will be the hardest one, but if we split forces, we increase our chances of winning one way or another" She then drew out her weapons, "My forte is mostly long, and middle-range attacks, but I can get along in close combat so I will go with the searching team. I can give you support from the back and tell y'all if the varmints are closing in behind us."

"Same here, I'd like a chance to pummel some monsters," Robo Dash adds.

"Luna, I feel terrible for falling for Nightmare's tricks and not noticing when she was controlling you. Please let me help you recover your body." Celestia offered to Luna.

"Our chances are better when we are together sister, now that I have more of my power, I'm confident we can overcome any trap she has in store for us." Luna agreed.

"Yeah! A rescue mission," DJ Pinkie invited herself along, hugging Celestia's neck.

"To dispel this level of magic you might need extra help, allow me to assist," Mage-Twilight tells her counterpart

"We have the most experience with guard duty your highness" Daga commented "Please allow us to remain here and mount a defense while you headed inside" The pair of sisters saluted to both of them

"You have our permission," Luna answered with a short nod.

"We will remain on guard duty too," Flutterknight and Rarity stepped forward. "It will be best if we fortify our defenses as much as possible. As for the rest of you, take care of dispelling the mist, elements or not you have the most experience dispelling negative emotions, and with the shadow magic in you, reaching him will be that much easier" She instructed to the group as Dash and Applejack eyed up Formal-Rarity with a raised eyebrows.

"Are you sure you'll be ok on guard duty sugar cube?"

"Yeah, no offense or anything, but fending off monsters might get…messy." Dash tried to use the right words, still unsure.

"Oh, you! I'm touched that you're both worried about my well-being darlings, but there is nothing for you to worry about. Indeed, I prefer not to resort to such a brutish and violent solution…" In one motion, she grabbed the shoulder of her dress and tossed it aside. Revealing a one-piece leotard covering a well-muscled body underneath, "…but I'm no stranger to snapping ruffians in two like twigs if the situation calls for it!" She exclaimed in anger, before leaping into the air and calling forth her magic which wrapped around her body in a glowing nimbus—fading only to reveal formal-Rarity clad in a full suit of armor with blue diamonds jutting forth from her pauldrons. A massive maul with sharp diamonds embedded in its striking faces and a tower shield floated nearby, and she retrieved both up with ease. Returning to the ground, she looked back at the group whose collective jaws just hit the floor.

"Truly outrageous, am I right darlings? Even in combat, my presence is simply captivating!" she exclaimed in pride

Once they recover from their shock, Dash and AJ look back at her friend. "Ah Rarity, quick question, how often do you go to the gym?"

"I will not answer that," Rarity replied tersely as she prepared herself alongside the others. "Ok, everyone, stay vigilant. Nightmare might still have a surprise or two waiting for us," Luna instructed as her group left in search of her body while the mane six and Mage-Twilight circled the prince and prepared a spell to erase the mist. Just as suspected the moment they did that, the fog shrieked loudly, undoubtedly alerting Nightmare of their actions. "Everybody, stay focused, in order to dispel the magic we will need to awaken the prince's inner self, just remember all the times you were at peace or happy, I will use it as fuel to give him more energy" Mage-Twilight instructed. Everyone closed their eyes and nodded as she surrounded herself and the group with her magic. Fluttershy, in particular, tried to recall past events with him. Blueblood…please come back

Soon a small figure took form on top of the prince before diving inside his mind.

"Hold the line everypony the first wave will be here any minute now" Flutterknight invoked her warriors once more as they left the room closing the door behind them

"Ladies, let's break some skulls." Rarity calmly said while maintaining her same sophisticated smile and gripping her maul when the ground started to tremble. In the distance, they could see an angry mob with pitchforks and torches, as well as a werewolf, rushing to their location. Led by none other than Gascoigne.

"No holds bar, ladies! They might not be as strong here, but we are still outnumbered!" Flutterknight warned them as a giant archer appeared behind her and prepared his bow, nocking an arrow.

At the same time in the platform of magma

As their battle continued, the once blazing arena was losing its heat as the magma grew cold. The fires around the rider started to dim down until both he and the Tantabus found themselves in a frozen wasteland. The snow began to slow its movements, and at the same time, Nightmare could feel her forces being revitalized by the change in weather.

"Hmm, fear, doubt, uncertainty, such magnificent emotions from my beloved heir, feeding me by the second. Can you feel it, you freak of nature?! I've won! His mind is now mine!" Nightmare gloated as the rider movements slowed even more and became erratic until the cold became too much for it, and he was forced to kneel on the ice, seconds before being rammed into a pillar of ice from one of Nightmares blast of magic. "To think I used to consider you a threat." She enchanted the pillar so that tendrils of ice burst forth and restrained the creature against it before starting to pull it into the ice embedding it deeper in the ice until only one of his arms and the heads of both unicorn and human remained outside, as their armour start to crack. "You and that insufferable wide-eyed brat were the biggest torn in my frog, but now with this much negativity in the air, it will only be a matter of time until I take full control of his mind. Maybe I will force him to watch as I smash you apart piece by piece."

Her threat, were answered with a lance piercing through her chest and pinning her down until the rider lost its strength and let her go. Gasping in shock and pulling the weapon out of her, Nightmare held her gaping wound until ice and scales started to spread from the injury while she glared at the creature. "You little...fine if you want to be smashed to pieces so much, allow me to oblige!" She turned around and was about to smash the rider with her rear legs when a scream alerted the two and filled Nightmare with dread. "No, it's impossible! There is no way they could escape that dream. I made sure of it!"

Without any further preamble, Nightmare forgot the rider and lifted off into the air, "I'm not gonna let them ruin everything once more."

The rider continued to huff as he watched her go. It was only after she was gone that it became translucent and disappeared, leaving nothing but melted or cracked ice.

Meanwhile, at the original dream.

Blueblood continued to tremble from the cold, as he couldn't shake off or rationalize what he just witnessed, making him question himself, and his aunt.

"In retrospect, she did warn you didn't she?"

"Huh?" Opening his eyes, Blueblood, was surprised to see a luminescent, colt version of himself sitting next to him with a curious expression on his face. "Don't remember? She told us that the path of ascension is a brutal and titanic task to go through. Boy was she serious, am I right?" The child commented with a light chuckle.

"Wha…who are you?" Blueblood questioned, blinking a couple of times at his presence, making him smirk.

"You don't know? It was so obvious! Come on! Think, we are in the inner parts of your brain, I'm a child that looks like you, so that means that I am…" He extended his hooves, hoping that Blueblood would finish the sentence, "…my inner child?"

"YAY! You got it!" the colt exclaimed in happiness, hovering in the air, revealing a pair of tiny wings shocking the prince too "You are an alicorn too!?"

"Yep, I'm your adorable and powerful inner child that guards and represents the purity of your dreams and desires!" He replied confidently before landing and drooping into sadness all of a sudden "I used to have two other friends with me too…but then that meany mare appeared one day and tried to get rid of us so she could take over your mind. I managed to escape but my friends…she did something to them, and turned them into your biggest fear." He trembled at the memory before pointing at Blueblood "Blue. You can't trust that mare no matter how much she looks like our aunt. She is simply evil, and the only thing she wants is to control your mind and get rid of what makes you, you. Just like dad tried to do a long time ago." He says worriedly before recovering and smiling again, "But we are smarter than that, right? No one knows mind games better than we do! Nothing she says or does will be able to bring us down!" He exclaimed confidently which only managed to depress the prince again

"What is the matter Blue?" The inner child asked, looking hurt and confused,, "You didn't buy that egomaniac's speech, right?"

"Of course not, that mare is as subtle as a bowling ball to the face. I know what she has been trying to do since the beginning."

"Then why are you so depressed?"

"Because beneath all of her trickery and empty promises, she was right in one thing. I have no future planned out." He confessed feeling remorse.

"Of course you do silly! Don't you remember? Clean up our messes. Earn our title as the prince, and be the best nephew ever!" The kid listed off in excitement.

"That's not a plan, it's a 'to do' list," Blueblood argued back, as his legs were claimed by ice due to his worries. "I mean, let's think about what I have been doing so far, acting my way into a comfortable life? Throwing parties like a spoiled brat? Solving a financial crisis? Finding a way to become a pony of shadows? All I have ever been doing is copying others, my father, my aunts, and even the pony I'm supposed to be replacing. I realized how Nightmare was right about my wish to be an alicorn, ever since I found out about them. I have wished to be one, but I never stopped and thought about why I wanted it in the first place, what if she is the right kid? What if I've only been jealous of my family having wings and am just acting out like a spoiled brat wanting a new toy?" He lowered his head in shame. "What if aunt Celestia really is terrified of what I could become, and that's why she visited Tartarus?"

"And what if, in reality, she is a giant ice-cream mare of Neapolitan flavors?!" The kid added, getting in Blueblood's face. confusing the prince. "Oh, sorry, I thought we were just saying nonsense."

"Kid, I'm serious."

"And so do I!" the colt responded, staring the prince down with a stern face. "Haven't our aunts shown us how much they love us? Haven't they already proven that they would never harm us?…although they might go a bit momma bear if someone else tries." He mumbled the last part. "Hmm? Haven't they? If we are doing the remembering game, why are you purposely avoiding the good parts?!" young Blueblood scolded his counterpart before stomping the ground which transformed the whole place from a desolated desert into a blooming garden in the middle of a starry night, where the tree they were hiding inside moved to be behind the two and in its fruits appeared all the instances his family showing affection toward him, genuine, honest unquestionable love, as well as all his good deeds helping other ponies. Coming clean on his lies, the intentions of his party, the reasoning into why he wanted to be a pony of shadows.

"It easy to play the blaming game with one's self, but as much bad as you may have done, there is also good, so much good to counter it. Starting with your wish to change and be better, so what if you're jealous of their wings? Being jealous isn't inherently a bad thing; it's letting that emotion consume you and dictate your every action that is wrong. Have all the steps you have made been to earn those appendages been fair and square? With no more shortcuts? No more deception or lies to obtain them? Tell me what is so wrong with having that kind of goal in life?" The entire scene was enough to bring a tear to the prince and melt the ice

"My aunties…I remember now, that is why I want to be an alicorn, I don't want power, I already know how empty power leaves you, what I truly wish, what I'm really after is to fit in as part of this family, not as a burden or a spoiled child but as an equal. That is why I trained so hard to be like aunt Luna. I'm starting to remember this place. I made it. This is my first creation as Blood Moon, a gift I wanted to show aunt Luna." Blueblood looked up, and the sky started to move, to form an image in the sky "An homage to her, and her hard work. A demonstration that others see her night for what it truly is. How could I forgot all of this?"

"Because that is exactly what that mare wants. To control your mind, and keep you afraid and unsure, so she could keep feeding off you! Don't you see it? All this effort to keep you down? Refusing to let you go? Getting desperate to make you her pawn? It obvious why she is doing all this…especially considering where we are."

"She is…afraid of me?" Blueblood answered no, believing his realization as the colt eagerly nodded, "And for good reason, that mare knows what is coming to her if she gets us mad. Or worse, hurts our friends and family. Are you going to lay down and let her do as she pleases?"

"No," Blueblood growled out with a renewed sense of confidence, "You are right, this is my mind, my dreams, and I'm done being pushed around. However, she was right about one thing. I am the heir of Nightmare Moon" His eyes flashed, and his body transformed into that of Blood Moon, as the colt does the same turning into a miniature version of Blood Moon with bat wings. "And as such, I must honor her legacy, by erasing that cheap knockoff who insists on soiling her image." He glared into the distance as the stars align and formed a frame of light in front of them.

The kid flew next to him and points at the portal. "Let's go teach that bully what happens when you mess with our family!" Blood Moon nodded, and together, they stepped forward and exited the dream.

While that is going on, the royal sisters made their way through the castle guided by their companions, and Lunas link to her body to find it until they reach their objective in the middle of what used to be the royal garden next to a dying bonfire.

"Everyone stay cool, that varmint left the body as bait for us," Cowgirl-AJ warned the group as she looked everywhere for any sort of trap, Robo Dash going ahead to scout for any hidden monsters.

"I don't see anything here either, but I have a bad feeling about this, girls. It just too easy."

"Agreed, our best route of action is to spring the trap, with the confusion our friends are making. Adding problems for Nightmare might work in our favour.

"Sounds good to me," Robo Dash agreed with a shrug.

"Same," Cowgirl-AJ agreed.

"Ok, in that case, let make some noise!" DJ-Pinkie exclaims as she pointed her sonic cannon at the bonfire and blasts it with sound waves, resulting in it exploding into a cacophony of flames, surprising everyone, as it covered the ground with fire beneath it.

"How did you know that was the trap?" Celestia asked.

"Who puts a bonfire in the middle of an indoor garden?" Pinkie questioned back sarcastically.

"Oh, ho! Everyone get ready!" AJ warns them as she pulls out her weapons when the rider slowly emerged from the flaming ground panting before rising to meet the group. Part of the helmets on the horse and riders' heads cracked open, revealing part of its faces.

"Is that…the rider?" Celestia looked at her companions as they nodded.

"The varmint very first victim and the manifestation of Blueblood biggest fear…" Upon closer inspection, the sisters gasp when they recognize Blueblood's face "…becoming a monster once more."

"I was always a monster" To their surprise. The rider started to speak in stereo using both mouths. "Ignorant or not, how many lives did I ruin? How many families did I deprive of shelter or food? And for how long did I do that, aunties? Did I start at eighteen, maybe sooner? I always listened to my father, and I still did it! And in here, in a land whose economy is centuries behind the one from my world was? Do you have any idea how easy it would be for me to consume it all!? I have the attentions of kingdoms, all at my beck and call!"

"Blueblood, how long have you been feeling like this," Celestia whispered to herself, feeling pity for the creature.

"No matter what I try, I will always be a monster, so if I must be a monster, then I will play the part!" He yelled before charging at the group.

As that happened, Nightmare got closer to Luna's body when suddenly a wall of fire blocked her way and preventing her from claiming the body. "What? No, NO!" She keeps blasting the fire repeatedly, but with her power dwindling, and any breach, she made turned out to be too small for her to pass through and quickly sealed up. "I gonna turn that freak into ice cubes once I recover control."

Her worries only increased when she detected Blueblood approaching his own body as well. "What is going on? How is this happening?! If he recovers controls of the dream…" Her eyes widened in horror as she dashed away at top speed to intercept the prince and bar his way by trapping them both in the original dream and refusing to let the prison burst. "Blueblood! I will not be ignored again! Do you hear me? This is my time to rule Equestria! MINE!"

Back with the primary six, the mist started to dissipate, and the ground began to tremble. "We did it! The link is severed. The Tantabus can no longer feed off his emotions. The dream is starting to crumble" Mage- Twilight exclaimed

"Then why isn't he waking up?" AJ questioned confused, as they see the prince twitch, and the tower of mist remained in place.

"Its Nightmare, she's refusing to let him go. Which means the princesses succeed, Luna got her body back."

"Awesome! Then this bubble-bunker thing will collapse any second, right?"

"It's still too soon. The parasite seems to have some hold. She will not go down without a fight. Everyone keep your focus. The real fight starts now"

Everyone nodded and remained engaged in their respective duels, fighting for control of the dream, as a particularly starry lock of mane find it way as a result of the disturbance and wrap itself around a familiar crystal tree in the basement.
> The Scheming Envy (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Crashing back into the grassy field, both Nightmare and Blood Moon left craters, where they landed as the prince's inner child flew over him, glaring at Nightmare with his horn ready.

"It's over, Nightmare, you lost."

"No!" Using her magic, Nightmare levitated some debris near her as she approached the child. "I'm so close, so close of claiming what is rightfully mine! Celestia had her turn. Luna is weak and unfit, and that annoying pet of theirs is nothing more than a brown noser! I'm a far better princess than all those mares combined! Tartarus will freeze before I let a spoilt brat, a freak of nature and his inner colt deny me my destiny!"

She hurled all of her projectiles at him only to be deflected by a force field erected by Blood Moon, who also stood up and regarded her with a neutral expression before tossing the debris back at which all exploded once getting within range, forcing back the Nightmare. In shock, she glared at him.

"Blueblood?! Not only do you pretend to mock me with a cheap imitation of myself, but you also dare to lift your hoof against your flesh and blood?! You dare?!"

"The only cheap copy here is you!" Blood Moon glared at her as the air around him grew heavy to the point that Nightmare moon was forced even further back from the intensity, as pieces of grass and dirt flew everywhere. "You might look like her, but you are not her, Nightmare Moon was imposing!" Charging his horn, he shot a magical blast that she barely managed to block with a shield of her own "She was someone worth both fearing and respecting!" He repeats the action, making her arcane shield start to crack, "And above all, she was a mare of vision and passion!" As the attacks continued to rain down and more of her shield chipped away, her injuries ached and forced her to kneel. "Compared to that. You've been acting like a spoiled diva demanding attention without doing anything to earn it. Just a fraud using the face of a mare of legends to claim something that is not hers. Now stop soiling her image and show me your real face!" Charging a more powerful blast, Blood Moon obliterated her shield and engulfed her in an explosion, before stopping and holding his head in pain as a cloud of dust hid the Tantabus's body.

"Are you ok, Blue?" The kid asked him with worry, but he smiled and nods. "I'm ok, just dizzy from casting to much too fast. More importantly," He looked in front of him "Did it work?" Both kept watching until a blast hit his inner child, disintegrating him in an instant.

"Kid!" The prince looked on in shock at the pile of ashes in front of him before chains burst from the floor and wrapped around his hooves as he heard some hissing behind him.

"You ungrateful, hypocritical brat! Is this the thanks I get after all I did for you?!"

"Nightmare…" Blood Moon slowly turns to face her, murder written all over his face "…you are gonna pay for that".

She was trembling in anger. The creature glared back at him. "Fine! I can always get another nephew. One much better than you. A worthy mare instead of a spoiled brat. Right after I mount your head on a wall as a trophy!" Nightmares voice turned a higher pitch as the dust finally cleared. The prince gasped when he saw the remains of Nightmares body hiding an emerald reptilian face which ripped through the remains of it, revealing a snake-like neck, green emerald scales instead of fur, bat wings, two long fangs protruding out of her mouth, a cascabel snake tail instead of her regular tail, a gaping wound on the left side of her torso, and two arms with claws instead of frontal hooves—giving her a bizarre and horrific appearance of a creature half snake, half alicorn with dragon arms speaking with a more reptilian voice.

"So, that is your real face." Blood Moon looked at the creature with a severe expression. "Makes sense, only a vile snake could be this cold-blooded"

"You are wrong, child. What you see is the face of your true heroine! No, maybe even better than, I'm the original Nightmare, her jealousy and anger come to life. The seed that birthed the mare you admired so much! But just like you, she tossed me aside once she started to get afraid of doing whatever it took to achieve her goals!" She launched at him at top speed and planted him into the ground with one of her claws firmly pressed on his neck. "Cowards! All in your family, without exception! I'm done lurking in the shadows of others! I will make Equestria remember my name, and once I take you out, they will be next." She promised and began to increase the pressure by using both claws, choking him until she saw a speck of light right on her face that exploded forcing her to back in surprise and pain.

"Have you lost your mind!? That close? you would have received the full impact as well."

"Funny thing about dreams," Blood Moon appeared behind her. "You make the rules as you please" Blood Moon grabbed her face and rammed it on the ground before running forward, dragging her face on the march before tossing her into the air, and lifting a wall for her to impact on. Nightmare recovered and jumped ahead, hitting him on the face before summoning a series of spiky chains circling his feet, forcing Blood Moon to teleport away and land right in the trajectory of another blast. Startling him and making his vision foggy, briefly leaving him open for the gnashing fangs of Nightmare to sink into his neck. Suppressing the pain, the prince grabs her and, using his elbow, and his own body slams her head against the ground, breaking off her fangs and make her scream in pain as he slowly backed away and removed the teeth from his flesh, venom at the tips starting to melt the ground around them. Holding his wound, the prince knelt in pain and focused his magic on neutralizing the poison and healing the injury as Nightmare does the same, who, unfortunately, finished faster than he. Taking advantage of the situation, Nightmare enveloped him in a series of chains that place him on the ground as two big walls manifested and closed in on him attempting to crush the prince.

"Interesting fact about Nightmares, nothing you do can stop them once they start. Also, contrary to popular belief, you could die multiple times in a single dream. As you are about to experience in a very lucid one."

"Hold on, partner!" The voice of AJ surprised Nightmare as a spectral lasso looped around her torso and dragged her away. "We're here."

"What!?" Nightmare looks back in shock when looking at the mare in question as if she was some sort of ghost. The prince sensed a faint yet familiar aura coming from AJ. "What is happening?"

"Your flank is about to be kicked, that's what is happening," Rainbow Dash answer as she swooped in and tackled Nightmare to the ground while Rarity and Twilight appeared nearby and released a surprised Blood Moon from the trap.

"Twilight, Rarity. Is that… you?" He looked between then and then at AJ and Rainbow Dash as they kept fighting.

"We are here, cousin," Twilight smiled. "Nightmare might prevent us from entering your dream, but we can help you defeat her."

Back on the second sub-level, all the girls had their eyes closed. At the same time, Mage Twilight used her magic to create a link between them and his dream as their bodies reverted to normal, and the shadow of the humanoid Nightmare Moon appeared on the wall before diving inside the dream as well. "By interacting with the same magic, you took from the Moon. I figured out a way to use the dome in our favor, by reverse engineering your knight spell." Twilight mentioned.

"You learned and mastered that spell in less than a night?!" Blood Moon regarded Twilight in shock, as she couldn't help but smile in pride. "I wasn't Celestia's prized pupil for nothing, you know?"

"Told you, we do this sort of thing all the time, Bluey." Pinkie suddenly giggles before getting all serious and looking back at Nightmare Moon. "For now, let's show that meany mare who's dream she is messing with." She glared at the mare in question as the rest of them appeared and got into position while Dash and AJ managed to force the creature back.

Blood Moon recovered and nodded before looking at Nightmare, ready to fight her with his friends. "Have to say, partner, that is one ugly varmint you have here," AJ commented as they surrounded the prince. "She must be the example granny used when she'd tell me that jealousy's ugly."

The Nightmare only laughed and dusted herself off as she stalked towards the group. "So, you decided to cower in fear behind your masters, Blueblood? Ha, just a spineless brat in the end. Fine! Do you want to experience terror with your heroes so much? So be it, I have the perfect nightmares reserved for all of you anyway." Her eyes glowed white, and the terrain crumbled and cracked as purple mist burst from the ground like geysers. The area was soon covered by it, and silhouettes started to appear from the fog. "Let's see how you deal with your worse fears." Nightmares snarked before retreating into the mist and disappearing while copies of the mane six without color or pupils emerged from the fog before smirking at them.

While that is going on, the royal siblings continued their battle with the fire nuckelavee, as he kept trying to impale them with his weapons or horn. The sheriff, DJ Pinkie, and Robo Dash were doing what they could to provide aid, but the monster was a juggernaut and kept rushing towards them, blocking their goal of retrieving Luna's body, as he raised a fire dome around Luna body.

"You're holding back, Princesses." The monster kept speaking to them with a glare. "I captured your body. I'm a threat to Equestria. I even have this hideous appearance. So why are you still holding back?! Just do your job as a ruler and put me down." He kept demanding before pointing at the group with his horn and cast forth a giant pillar of fire that forced them to split into groups to avoid the conflagration.

"You…want to be defeated?" Luna voiced her thoughts out loud before looking at DJ Pinkie. "What sort of monster did Nightmare create?"

"We are not so sure, to be honest," Pinkie responded with a shrug. "When Nightmare created the Rider, he immediately turned on her and started to chase her everywhere she went, but then he starts attacking everything in sight and feeding off any bad dream it stumbles across."

Sherriff AJ and Celestia gather around them as Dash gave them cover using her cannon to make a firewall. "That varmint is beyond reasoning too, not to mention unkillable." She bit out in frustration, "No matter what we do, he just keeps coming back from its ashes and melted armor like some sort of bizarre and horrific phoenix." The comment caught the attention of Celestia as she takes a glance at AJ in surprise before taking another look at the fire of the Rider, her horn glowing with a dim golden aura

"That's why we didn't want to face it at all; once it charges, it simply doesn't stop. Our guess is that Nightmare tried to use some strange fire that never burns out when making it".

"Does any of that matter right now?" Dash landed in front of the group. "With that pain in the flank losing her hold in this place. Maybe this could be our chance to get rid of this plague as well. We need to keep blasting it and make sure it doesn't stand up anymore." She smiles at them with confidence before being startled when the creature dissipated the wall effortlessly with one swing of his spear.

"And once again, you are underestimating the situation," AJ scolded her as she takes out a lasso and stands next to her, while Pinkie kept the Rider away using her cannon. "What makes you so sure this time will be any different? That fire wasn't something Nightmare created, and I don't think it will just go out that easily".

"You are right, Applejack" Celestia nodded after gasping in discovery, ending her scanning enchantment. "Eliminating the nightmare will not be enough to destroy this creature."

"Why are you so sure?" Pinkie asks

"Because the nature of his magic comes from my sun!" She explained in alarm.

"What?" Everyone looked at her in shock. Allowing the creature to smash Pinkie with the haft of a lance, tossing her into AJ as Dash and Celestia moved out of the way.

"Care to explain what you are talking about?" Dash demand urgently.

"I would if I could, but honestly, I'm in the dark here too. I don't know why or how, but that magical imprint is identical to mine, that fire comes from me."

After a quick scan, Luna gasped and landed next to Celestia with AJ and Pinkie. "By the stars, it's the truth! That is your magic sister, but how…" She stopped when she had a moment in realization, "...The banishment!"

"Huh?" Pinkie looked back at the night Princess.

"For a thousand years, she moved my moon while I was trapped inside. My magic  would still be predominant, but it would be impossible not to leave traces of her own after moving the celestial body for that long. Unfortunately, it appears our nephew unintentionally acquired said traces by accident as well".

"That explains why we couldn't keep it down and the sun symbol. We assumed that it was just some sort of mockery." Dash mentioned before been thrown into the air by the base of the spear of the Rider.

"Enough, chattering! Just kill me already!" He demanded in desperation as he tried to charge at the princesses again only to be stopped by AJ, who lassos his torso and lashed him to a nearby pillar, buying the group some time.

"That will not hold him for long, Princess Celestia. Quickly, you're the expert. How do we extinguish that fire?"

"I'm not so sure, if it were a real creature, I would simply need to get close and cancel his magic by touching him with my horn, but this is a nightmare we are talking about, I don't understand how they work."

"But I do," Luna replied, reinforcing the lasso with her magic. "And if what our friends are saying is true, then as long as he is here, he is real and vulnerable. I have a plan, but I will need all of your help, and sister, you and I will have to move in unison."

"What do you have in mind, Luna?" Celestia said while nodding and falling into place next to her as Luna smiled impishly at her sister before conjuring two flaming swords from thin air. "How rusty is your swordsmareship Tia?"

Before Celestia could reply, the ground started to shake again, and the purple mist began to billow up, making the visibility progressively worse, the effects of which were happening all over the castle as Garra and Daga finish off another derrain citizen until they had a hard time distinguishing what is in front of them.

"What is going on?" Daga retreated moments before a pitchfork almost impale her. Rarity retaliated by smashing the offending creature to pieces.

"Nightmare must be gathering her remaining of strength. She probably figured out that no one was on the third floor, so she dispelled it and is now utilizing that magic here." Fluttershy concluded once they noticed all of the monsters turning to mist as well, giving them a moment's respite.

"So, is this it then?" Garra asked after decapitating Gaiscoigne's head off, making it dissipate as well. "We won? Nightmare will stop trying to do something here?"

"I doubt that Darling, that brute is extremely paranoid, and Blueblood's body is more than valuable. She wouldn't just leave him exposed so easily. This was just the first wave."

Soon they all started to hear moaning in the distance. When looking back, a hunchbacked mare slowly began to advance through the fog heading their way, followed by taller and rickety ponies with veils covering their bodies, showing only their glowing white eyes and carrying long sickles with them.

"Is that…the olden pony?" Daga raised an eyebrow, "Nightmare thinks we are six years old now?"

"Stay alert! That is not the pony of legend that you know." Fluttershy tells them in alarm, "It's the witch of hemwick!"

After closer inspection, the twins' faces turn pale when they saw how that old mare seems to be carrying something in one of her hooves. She had a very unusual cane that resembled a beak. She was also covered from head to hooves in eyeballs, all of which occasionally blinked at different times and darted around furtively. Not only that, but after a grunt and lifting her cane, said witch and her minions dissipated into thin air, yet her moaning and steps could still be heard.

"W…where did she go? What is happening?" Garra's fear started to creep in as she took a step back, looking everywhere for any sign of the witch.

"Calm down. She just turned translucent. Stay focused, and don't lower your guard," Fluttershy instructed. "She might look fragile, but that witch is resilient. On my signal, everyone strike where I point."

"Don't worry, Darlings, we can still do this" Rarity tried to calm down the fearful Garra as she chopped up and crushed one of her rubies before blowing it dust to her, to cover her in an extra layer of defense. Her sister tried her best to remain focused, although she too was starting to tremble internally at the enemy they were about to face.

Just a bit longer, this is almost over. I just need to hold the line a little bit longer. She kept repeating to herself, taking occasional glances at the door behind them before gulping and then closing her eyes.

As things escalated, the mist in the original dream kept getting worse as the once beautiful landscape became the inside of a purple cloud were visibility next to zero. The mane six copies keep appearing and disappearing into the mist without saying a word chipping away at the group's morale, who gradually lose their patience.

"Alright! Enough with all the hiding! Show yourself so that I can kick your flank already, Nightmare!" Dash yelled out, starting to lose her patience only to be answered by her copy, appearing behind her and smirking while pinning her wings to the ground. "Cocky as ever, just rushing in and promising things left and right, always thinking you can do anything in 10 seconds flat." Her copy flew away before Twilight could blast it, as AJ and Blood Moon helped Dash stand up.

"Calm down, Rainbow; this is exactly what Nightmare wants. She is using psychological warfare to divide us. We need to stick together," Twilight instructed as they gathered in a circle as eyes started to glow from inside the mist.

"Isn't it exhausting Twilight?" This time, her copy appeared from the mist, but it only took a couple of casual steps forward this time. "All that effort, going this far, risking your life, is he worth the risk?" She raised an eyebrow in confusion

"What?" Twilight look at her counterpart, confused before shaking her head. "I'm not gonna fall for that. You are just an illusion of Nightmare's".

"Of course not, you're too smart for that, but the question lies in how far are you willing to go?" Her copy glares at Twilight. "Or is this just for the kicks? Some thrills from being the hero, is that it!?" She demanded as her body started to morph and transform until she became taller, a darker shade of purple, her wings turn almost black, both tail and mane begin to move like they were made of fire, a dark mist surrounded her cutie mark, horseshoes similar to Nightmare's appeared on her hooves, and a blue light took the shape of glasses surrounding her eyes and cover her now crocked horn as she flashes a toothy grin at her. "How much longer are you willing to be pushed before cracking?"

"What in tarnation is that varmint doing now?" AJ raised an eyebrow in confusion at what was happening.

"No…it… it's impossible. I never told Blueblood about you. How does Nightmare know about Midnight Sparkle?!" She asks in shock at the monster in front of her, catching the attention of Blood Moon. "Midnight Sparkle? Cousin, you also have a darker half?"

"No! It was my clone…I mean, my other me…the Twilight of the other world." She explains in quick succession before shaking her head to calm herself down. "I don't have a dark half."

"Is that true?" Midnight tilted her head with a smirk. "Or do you simply want it to be the truth? Take a look, Sparkle! This is where you are heading."

"You don't scare me, Nightmare! Your mental tricks are not going to work on me." Twilight replied, full of bravado.

"Then, why are you afraid?" Nightmare suddenly whispered in Twilight ear making her scream in alarm and jump into the air, leaving her open for a blast from her copy, sending her flying into the fog.

"Twilight!" Dash gave chase while AJ and Blood Moon tried to grab Nightmare only for her to hold both with her claws and ram them into the ground, as the rest were confronted by their copies as well.

"As I told you before, brave…yet pointless, did you think my worthless nephew was the only source of fear I could gather power from?" Nightmare smirked before tossing AJ to the side

"Do you even have time to goof around?" Copy Dash demanded, "All your life you have been moving back and forth between Element and Wonderbolt, this isn't a game!" She suddenly appeared in her wonder bolt uniform. "THIS is your dream. This is what you wanted all along, are you going to stay there and let them steal it? Your loyalty lies with us, and no one else!" Her figure disappears, but the uniform remained and flew towards Rainbow, entangling itself and tried to force itself onto her.

"What is the matter, Dashie, you can't fill the uniform?" Copy Pinkie asked rhetorically while pressing a mic on her face, "I heard of mares loving the uniform, but this is the first time I see the reverse happening."

"Hey! That is not funny. You're just being mean and saying bad jokes," Pinkie retorted. "Plus, this isn't the time for jokes either."

Her copy went stiff at that "No time for jokes? No time for JOKES?! And you call yourself Pinkie Pie? Every time is the time for jokes, laughter is always welcome, and everyone should laugh all the time!" She demanded that as she dons a purple suit, she paints clown makeup on her face and places a single carnation in her hair as laughter is heard all around them. "Just like all of them, see?" Copy Pinkie pointed to their left, and Pinkie gasped at what she saw. They were now on a stage, and all the ponies in the audience had rictus grins on their faces and tears on their eyes. "All of them happy, and laughing as they should, everyone should be laughing, especially you!" She kept demanding, approaching Pinkie with a deranged smile and pulling a mallet out of her mane.

"No dress, no hoof care, barely any makeup, no poise or elegance?!" Copy Rarity listed to Rarity in a rage while launching giant needles at her forcing her to dodge them as she was wearing what could only be described as a mess of different fancy green dresses, making her look like a costly rag doll "Just a brute who revels in violence and mud, I can barely even recognize you, where is your dignity as a lady?! By Celestia, there is a stallion present here! But don't fret; I can make you pretty. I will make everypony pretty again!" She blocks Rarity's way with a series of needles as she rolled her eyes

"Please tell me I wasn't like that, "She asked mostly to herself before jumping out of the way from another needle.

"Hold on partners. I'm coming!" Applejack recovered and gallops to their rescue when suddenly roots sprung from the ground and latched onto one of her hind legs. "And where in tarnation do you think you are going?"

Her copy demanded, turning around, Applejack faced a giant apple tree version of herself. "The farm is not gonna work itself, and you've been wasting more than enough time playing the hero, it time you take your duties seriously," She demanded. The roots start to pull AJ into the ground as if to plant her as she thrashes around, trying to get free from the vines and roots.

"AJ, calm down! Remember it's a dream. It will only be real as long as you…" Blood Moon tried to warn her before being tossed in the opposite direction as Nightmare laughed and slowly approach him. "Ah, ha dear, why ruin the surprise when the fun is barely beginning? Especially after I left the best for last." she proclaims with gleeful malice as she slowly turned her attention towards Fluttershy, who was backing away from her copy, which keeps advancing while sporting a glare on her face and horns that started to sprout from her head. "Yes, the most cowardly of the group, with a list of fears so big it makes me wonder what her biggest one could be."

"Fluttershy!" Blood Moon rushed towards her, but Nightmare tackled him and teleported the two of them into a deserted hallway with the red Moon shining outside of glass windows

"Oh, don't worry, sweetie, I didn't forget about you. I have the perfect little Nightmare..." She tells cryptically before starting to turn into mist

"Oh no you don't!" Blood Moon does the same and grabs hold of her before both clouds smash out of the window and into an empty street. "This time, I'll be the one showing you what a nightmare looks like."

That comment made the mare laugh uncontrollably.

"You think you can scare me? The mare of the Moon? The queen of nightmares? Aren't you just adorable?" Spinning around, she smashes him against a building and into an office were she press her claws against his head. "Too bad, I'm in a bad mood right now." She whispered into his ear with venom in her voice. "You shouldn't have made me so mad."

"Right back at you!" With boiling blood, the prince charges his horn. He then engulfed himself in his magic before discharging it all at once in a fiery explosion that sent Nightmare flying before being met by his hoof as he batted her into the ceiling and the wall on the next floor-breaking both. He tries to make a follow-up attack, but Nightmare regained the initiative and grabs his hooves, and both turn into mist and fly at max speed everywhere, destroying everything in their wake on the ever-changing landscape. Blood Moon determined not to let Nightmare out of his sight for not even a second, irking her to no end.

"Fine! Do you want to play so much, dear? Let's dance" She gave up on escaping and turns around to meet him as their horns clashed, causing eldrich sparks to fly everywhere, as well as making the entire castle shake and slowly crumble all over the groups.

"What is happening?" Daga looks at how ponies' shadows appeared on the wall near them before turning into mist and dashing away before getting distracted by another monster that almost cut her.

"The dome is getting unstable, that parasite is done playing safe; she is either furious or is getting desperate. Maybe both." Knight Fluttershy answered, blocking another attack and stab the witch in her stomach before Formal Rarity followed up, smashing the nightmare creature with her mallet laying it out flat, causing its assembled minions to disappear.

"Is it over?" Garra commented, panting from the exhaustion before getting surprised when the pair of interpretations started to vanish.

"Looks that way for us," Knight Shy sighed in disappointment.

"Oh well, it was nice while it lasted."

"What is happening to you?" Daga, ask in shock.

"Isn't it obvious? We're being called back. The dome is what keeps the dream solid, including us. No dome, no us."

"But what will we do if more monsters appear?"

"If that happens, it's a good thing that there are still two guards we can count on." Knight shy smiled at them. "Be careful, you two. The Nightmare could still use the castle itself as a monster, so stay alert and hold the fort just a bit longer."

"We leave Bluey's safety to you, darlings, ta-ta." Formal Rarity waved at them before the two disappear, leaving the twins alone.

"Heh, transforming the castle itself into a monster, please, how would she even do that?" Garra rolled her eyes in disbelief only to soon hear the walls, floor, and roof behind her crack open and move backward before gathering together into a mishmash of stones, pieces of armor, and the head of the statue of Nightmare Moon acting as its head with a functional horn, glaring at the twins.

"You had to ask, did you?" Daga looks back at her sister with a deadpan expression.

While that happens in the garden, the place was slowly turning into a war zone as the creature keeps charging at the group, each strike resulting in another crater as he started bounding all over the place with remarkable speed making him an elusive target to lock down and rendering their air advantage useless as he used his fire as propulsion to give chase without a significant problem.

Not only that, but to make matters worse, the dreams and Celestia's body were starting to fade away, something she noticed when her sword phased through her hooves, and she was unable to pick it up again. "What is happening?" she asks, looking at her hooves only to be knocked prone by the Rider for being distracted and almost impaled, if not for the help of DJ Pinkie, who jumped onto his shoulders and put a set of headphones on his human head before playing music at full volume, making him scream and thrash around trying to take them off to no avail.

"Damn it! Not now", Robo Dash exclaimed in frustration, looking at her fading palm before clenching it into a fist and look at the Princess with a glare. "Listen up! The fart's grip on this place is fading, which means that at any moment, the dome in Canterlot will pop with you and the other two waking up".

"What? But that would mean..." Celestia eyes wide in realization and looks at Luna "...not only will that leave you alone with the rider, but 2 of the elements will also come back with me!"

"Not to mention that the rider be free to go on a rampage," Cowgirl AJ added and tossed away her empty revolvers. "So we better make the next shot count" She reached to her back and pulled out a double-barreled shotgun.

"We will open a path, you simply focus on taking him out for good," DJ Pinkie explained, putting her cannon on the max setting.

"Do it quickly, that thing regenerates fast," Robo Dash mentions as she nodded to all of her friends.

"And you don't have to worry about the elements or me, Sister. Once I reclaim my body, Nightmare's advantage will be gone, and she will return to being nothing more than a bad dream. Just focus on purging your magic from that creature." Luna looks at Celestia as she also prepared to attack. Celestia nods and braces herself for what she needed to do.

"Finally, finish me already!" The Rider yelled at them in a rage before rampaging at full gallop.

"You got it, partner," Cowgirl AJ says before she and Luna rushed to him. As the Princess locked horns with the horse, it left the human half open for the sheriff close the gap and empty both barrels point-blank, leaving a gaping hole on his chest, revealing an empty husk where there was nothing but the fire inside as she jumped back and began to reload, breaking open the shotgun's action. The Rider screamed before pointing his weapon at her, but she snapped the gun closed and immediately fired from the hip. Striking his shoulder, leaving his arm numb and limp as she smirks before turning into a poof of smoke and vanishing.

The Rider jumped back, trying to gain some distance, but it was left exposed to DJ's final strike as she used her sonic cannon on the legs, shattering them with sonic waves before her weapon also started to break. Noticing that, DJ looked at Celestia and gave her a peace sign, "It was fun. Let's meet up again in the future. Bye!" She then rushed to the Rider and hugged his head before exploding, leaving the Rider headless and grounded.

"Time for the grand finale, your highnesses…take care" Robo Dash gave them a thumbs up before charging at full speed at the Rider who does the same and managed to run her through with his remaining lance. Instead of showing pain, though, Robo Dash grabbed hold of his weapon. "ok…that was good. My turn!" Robo Dash smirked before opening her chest, revealing a secret canon inside. "Eat this!" She charged all of her body's magic and shot a giant laser that claims half of his torso and his left arms before she expires and vanishes, leaving the Rider in a daze.

Not wasting time, Celestia rushed in and checked the Rider, landing right into the hole of his chest where she started to absorb all the fire inside his body before using her horn to split him in half, her body almost gone by that point as the beast became a hollow suit armor and slowly turned to dust being claimed by the wind. "Thank you," He whispered before dissipating completely.

Breathing a sigh of relief, the sisters looked to one another before smiling and nodding. "Luna, I leave the rest to you" Celestia stood and gave her sister one final hug her before waking up with Fluttershy and Rarity, who gasp and sit up with a startle. Not a moment later, the three were surrounded by guards and a medical team who start performing eye checks on them with a flashlight, while Luna was left alone in the garden with her body six feet away, ready to be reclaimed.

Let end this Nightmare.

"Wait," Luna heard the voice of Nightmare right after taking one single step toward her body. She didn't have to turn back to know that behind her was her counterpart, Bluebloods interpretation of her…as Nightmare Moon. A fact that did not anger her, but she wasn't thrilled to view it either.

"How can you even be here? If you could have done so from the beginning, then why did you wait until now to appear?"

"I was always here, those interpretations were extensions of me, and now that Fluttershy and Rarity are awake, I can use the magic I gave them to be here, but only briefly, so I need to be quick about this."

Luna sigh and decided to humor counterpart, turning around to look her in the eyes. "Fine, I will bite. What do you want?"

"I couldn't tell you before because I needed all my attention protecting our nephew's mind, but now that there is an opening, I need your help if we want to erase Nightmare for good. And to do that there is a story you and Blueblood need to hear" Nightmare smiled and put her shoulder in Luna's right shoulder. "The untold story of what exactly happened to you in between a thousand years ago."

At that revelation, Luna could only utter one single syllable in response to such monumental disclosure.

"Huh?"

Back in the dreamscape



The fights between of Blood Moon and Nightmare kept them flying everywhere as colorful clouds of mist slashing at each other repeatedly, before landing in the metropolitan city were Blood Moon kicked into the side of a building shattering all the glass on it, which then took on a red glow before spinning and targeting Nightmare who does the same with the street below and uses the shattered asphalt to protect herself and destroy the projectiles, which turned into dust. The prince used said dust as cover and used his magic to grab her leg. Once she turns back to sever his magic, he struck. Grinding the glass dust into her eyes, blinding the Nightmare.

Nightmare shrieked in pain and held her face leaving her vulnerable to Blood Moon's attack and was not going to let any advantage slip by. Closing in on her and pounding her into the ground, breaking through to the sewers beneath, where she turned into the foam to escape his onslaught before turning into a crocodile. Biting one of the princes' back legs and swimming deeper and deeper into the rancid water, letting the pressure start to crush Blood Moon. He then turned into ice. He froze them both, forcing the two into becoming mist and launch themselves into the night sky, which in turn, became an inverted ocean that reflected the night itself.

Once there, Nightmare becomes a great white shark baring her teeth at the prince, who barely dodged her lunge and only to be slapped by her powerful tail, which hit him in the chest like a truck and launched him to the surface where a small boat in the middle of the ocean was as a massive lightning storm was brewed. Slowly recovering his breath, Blood Moon tried to find Nightmare, but the sea was too dark to distinguish anything until she almost bites off his head as she jumps inside the boat and starts to thrash and break it, inching closer to him.

Before that happens, Blood Moon jumps into the water and turns into giant swordfish before making a quick turn, and rushes at Nightmare, impaling her chest and swim faster and faster until the water turns into light. They both turn into a comet, shifting back, he made a clone and tried to blow her up. Still, she turns into mist and absorbs the blast before rushing to him and reforming as an anaconda and begins to strangle him while they fall to a grey planet making a crater as they land in the middle of a desert at night. Nightmare kept up the pressure, looming over the prince as she prepares to swallow him whole, if not for him inhaling deeply before he was blowing liquid nitrogen out of his mouth point-blank into her face freezing her entire body and making it brittle enough for him to crack and limp away from the remains, the fatigue and pain starting to show as he knelt trying to recover his breath while holding his right side.

All of a sudden, the world started to tremble, and looking back, he saw the remains of Nightmare turn into water and then absorb into the earth before the ground split open, revealing her as a titanic golem rampaging and reshaping the land in her wake as the prince ran away from her and her attempts to stomp him flat.

Lifting a mountain in front of him, she cuts off his escape and is ready to smash him when all of a sudden, he also turns into mist, but rather than rushing to her, it spread around the ground, confusing the mare of shadows.

"Go ahead, run, and hide. Let me see how far you go." She taunted while looking around the mist.

"Who is hiding?" Before appearing as billions of copies of himself, the prince reply, "I'm right here," launching his copies at her heels. He targeted her tendons and quickly brought her down before covering her entire body. "Hey nightmare, have you ever wonder what would it feel if a bomb went off right in your eye?" Blood Moon asked, standing right on her eyes before his body illuminated and exploded right next to it, making her screech in pain as the other copies soon follow suit, slowly chipping away her body and even going so far as to diving inside her wounds to explode from there, until she abandons her armour body and tries to escape by flying away, the clones follow suit.

"You annoying pest! The sky belongs to those with wings!" She turns into a mass of birds, who eat all the copies in seconds before going for the real one.

"And turbines are the slayer of birds" He invokes a giant wind turbine that makes quick work of the birds as they become nothing but a cloud of feathers before it too explodes with Nightmare roaring and grabbing the prince by the neck and flying at max speed before they reach a castle in the middle of the woods, landing on a familiar rooftop with a hole in it and a looming eclipse on the horizon.

"Ah, yes, perfect. Tell me, Blueblood, did you recognize this place?" Rather than answer, he turns into fire, so she lets go of him before jumping backward and then blasts her away from him with magic, followed by a full-speed charge ramming his horn into her chest where he heard her gasp and what it sounds like spit of blood before shooting off multiple arcane bolts into her. Then for good measure, he summon another series of clones to explode on her repeatedly.

Conjuring his set of hands, Blood Moon grabs her by the hind legs and destroys the roof with her body diving in and punch her again and again until they find themselves on the ground floor. Still, the prince didn't seem to mind as he keeps on his assault, beating her into a pulp. Seeking to end the fight, and spending every drop of magic he had left to do it.

"Blueblood, stop!" Luna's voice froze him and halted his attacks instantly as in front of him was his aunt, badly beaten, and on the verge of tears. "Please…stop, I'm begging you. Didn't you say you wanted to be like me? Why are you attacking me? This was always me, what made Nightmare Moon in the first place, you said you accept me for who I am, was that a lie?"

"It…it's a trick…Nightmare damn you!" With a trembling hoof, he tries to resume his assault, but the face of Luna was eroding his resolve and making it impossible to do anything. "I can't do it," He confessed, lowering his hoof and canceling his spell.

"That is ok, sweetie, I can," Nightmare confirms with a smirk before turning back into her true form and grabs his face as she flies forward, ramming his head against a stone wall before repeating the process and destroying the said wall. The prince tried to defend himself, but she flies up at maddening speeds and rams him into the ceiling before twirling around and throwing him to the ground. cracking his ribs and leaving him without any air as he holds his chest. "Don't feel bad, honey, you simply didn't have the slightest of chance, your puny punches would never be able even to tickle an alicorn."

Using her magic, he was slowly levitated up so that Nightmare could see his face. "It was fun, but now it's time to end it, now hug me!" Groaning in pain, Nightmare start to press him into a firm hug worsening his injuries before lifting into the air at high speed, making the prince light-headed from the lack of oxygen. "Isn't this what you always wanted, nephew?! To fly into the sky like a bird? Aren't you happy about how your merciful aunt will grant you one last wish? Come on, why don't you say anything…? Oh, right, you can't breathe! Let fix that"

Once she was way up into the air, Nightmare dove downwards before spinning and ramming the prince against the ground with enough force to make a crater, leaving his body screaming in agony while coughing blood. Turning into his side, and trying to get as much air as possible in between fits of coughs, the prince manages to crawl a couple of inches before his body gave up on him as everything around him turned into a haze, from the corner of his eyes he could make out a blue blur descending from the sky, most likely Nightmare gloating once more at the sorry state his body was in at the moment. Yet all he could hear at the moment was the ringing in his ears. The sensation of being plucked out of the ground and just tossed into darkness as he lost his orientation and center of gravity. At the same time, he kept falling, until the pain and fatigue made it impossible for him to know if he had his eyes open or not, or even if he was still falling or if he already hit the floor and was merely too numb to feel anything anymore "Blue" All of the sudden the voice if his inner child caught his attention as a white light appeared in front of him "Come on Blue, get up, this fight is far from over!"

"Kid? But…how? I saw you…" He started only to be stopped by the childs giggling.

"It will take more than that to get rid of me, I am as strong as am adorable, and more importantly, if I could brush off her attack, it should be child's play for you to do the same, so why are you letting her get to you that easy?! Come on, snap out it! Like Platinum taught you, you must always keep your chin up no matter what," He instructed, appearing in a semi-translucent form, smiling at the prince.

"But…I can barely move, and even if I could, she is…too powerful, I hit her with everything I got, and she brushes it off like was just dust".

"Did she now?" The voice of Luna caught his attention, and looking up. He saw a giant humanoid version of Nightmare Moon dressed as a goddess looking down on him while gently holding his battered frame with both hands. Her touch was warm and soothing, letting the prince know that she was his real aunt as a sensation of security started to wash over him and slowly making his pain go away. "Or did she merely trick you into believing that ?"

"Auntie," Blueblood looks at her in astonishment.

"The night I gave you my powers, I saw a fearless child who would stop at nothing to reclaim his crown, no matter how many times he was brought low. A brave self-made stallion who I would be proud to call my heir. Where did that stallion go?"

"But how can I confront her? The second she starts crying with your face, I simply froze. No matter how much I try to convince myself into believing she isn't, that snake is a part of you".

"No, even that things origins are nothing more than a lie, she told herself," Nightmare was quick to answer with a slightly angry tone, confusing the prince.

"The story only told how it took my sister a thousand years to bring me back, it never said what happened in all that time, and I can assure you, rather than being a masterful, if a rather long, plan, Twilight, and her friends were ultimately just the one who succeeded"

"What?" Both the prince and his inner child looked at Nightmare in surprise as she merely nods "All of those ideas, all the different plans my sister concocted, she truly never lost hope in bringing me back, but unlike you, she never understood how I felt, and our combined stubbornness was the cause in how each attempt failed and birthed that parasite." She clenched her teeth in anger and closed her eyes

"A mass of grudges and residual magic squirming around MY moon, using MY face and desecrating MY goals as she pleases thinking she is superior to anyone else and…!" She was getting angrier and angrier until she felt something on her cheek and opening in surprise. He sees Blueblood's inner child patting her face while looking at her in concern. softening her expression and using her other hand to pet his head, making him giggle. "And the worst sin of all, hurting the ones that I love."

She looks back at Blueblood with a smile, "My sweet little star, my heir of the night. Do you think of me like a worm?"

"Never!"

"Then there is nothing for you to fear, my boy, all of her supposed powers always belonged to you and you alone. Now stand up and defend your title. Let everyone know the real Blood Moon. After all, this is your dream, isn't it?" She booped him on the nose, making his body tingle before she and his inner child started to disappear slowly, leaving him back to were Nightmare left him at the bottom of a very long and dark hole. "What better place is there to show what you want to be?"



"Aunt Moon…thank you", Blood Moon whispered before wiping a tear from his eye and then chuckling, lowering his head, not entirely sure if she was still there. "Even if it isn't real, even if I will be just playing pretend, that is still my dream and my ultimate goal."

Suddenly, wings sprung from his back, and his body turns into an anthropomorphic version of himself as his armor extended to accommodate his new form. Manifesting pauldrons and armored leather pants, as well as a red cape. His eyes glow as his aura alone starts to crumble the walls of the hole from the pressure, "Is to be an alicorn!" The waves got stronger until the hole collapsed, while Blood Moon punched his way out and flew into the night sky, turning into a red comet.

Near him, Nightmare watched the display and wiped a tear from her eye in pride. "Go my star, go and show her why you are the night prince," She whispered before turning around and igniting her hand, "While I make sure this doesn't repeat."

After a short while, the prince finally caught up to her, reaching the rest of his friends and starting to turn into mist. "NIGHTMARE!" Turning around in shock, she barely had time to comprehend what was happening before Blood Moon punched her square in the face making her crash into a field away from them as Blood Moon used his magic to dispel the mist everywhere both in the dream the real world.

"Ok, no more mist…that is good, right?" Garra questioned, unsure, until she spots the giant grin on her twin, looking at a glow behind them. "It's better than good. It's him!" She exclaims.

Looking back, her sister notices what was happening when the still sleeping figure of Blueblood stood up. At the same time, Witch Twilight turns into pure light and engulfs his body turning him into his alter ego, while his aura seems to be dispelling all the mist in a radius around him. "The Night Prince is here!"

"What?!" Nightmare looks at him in a mix of anger and shock. "No, no, no! That's impossible!" She rushes at him full speed making their fist collide, generating another shockwave and make the ground tremble. "You were at death door! This isn't happening. It illogical!"

"News flash parasite! Since when does a dream need logic?" Blood Moon replied with a smirk before punching her chest so hard that she is sent flying and into a portal he conjured behind her, making her fall into a loop of two outlets place too close together, giving the prince chance to connect with everyone by telepathy. "Everyone listen to me. I'm linking you all to my mind, whatever you think now goes, just imagine yourself winning, and the nightmares will falter. You can do it, show them the might of the elements of harmony and the royal guard" He instructed while erecting a shield in time to protect himself from Nightmare's blast, who was utterly livid as she kept firing while slowly walking towards him.

"I will not be upstaged by a cheap copy! I'm Nightmare Moon now. This is MY time to shine, MINE!

"Like I told you" In a flash, he appeared next to her and grabbed her neck. "The only cheap copy here is you!" He lifts off with her and rams her into the moon, as everyone gets inspired by his words and fight back.

"I'm both a wonder bolt and an element of harmony!" Dash proclaims as her friends, all wearing the uniform, appear and help her tear the monster to pieces.

"Even if you can be me, I know more than one friend that would always bring me back." Twilight said with confidence as she with another Twilight with glasses and an orange unicorn with a red and yellow mane and tail as well as glowing white wings joined forces and destroyed Midnight Twilight with a single blast.

"Work without play will drive anyone insane, of course, I have hobbies, and there is nothing wrong with lazing around from time to time." AJ proclaimed, pulling a hammer and chisel and turn her copy into a sculpture in record time.

"You are just a superstitious, cowardly clown," Pinkie says in a gravely voice before putting on a blue mask, purple suit, purple hat, and blue cape, which she used to tie her insane counterpart. "And I'm the laugh!"

"The boss is watching sis, we better bring our A-game," Garra mentions with a smirk.

"Just try to keep up, old-timer," Daga repled with the same face, before both lifted off into the beast, dodging its blasts of magic, before trying to strike with its arms only for it end up stuck into a wall by ice before been cut to ribbons by the twins. It tried using the other arm once, but their combined kick made it punch itself in the face cracking the horn before being frozen over too.

They keep cutting until a red glowing stone ejects from him and forms four little legs made of debris trying to escape, making some progress until a dagger lodged in it, receiving enough voltage to make it shatter. The second it happened, the entire building revert to the ruins it was before, leaving just a semi-transparent dome behind, and the roots of the elements on top of it.

"Looks like Nightmare is on her last legs" Garra looks at the sky, noticing the eclipse starting to end too. "Welp, I don't think I will ever forget this night."

"Indeed," Luna mentioned descending from the sky after putting the Moon in its place again. "You two did a magnificent job serving the crown. My nephew was wise in picking you up personally."

"You honor us, your highness" Garra gives her a courteous bow until she notices her sister was missing. Looking back, Garra got scared that Daga was ignoring Luna and instead was walking inside the throne room, where she stood next to Blood Moon with a giant grin. "He is even cooler up close!"

"DAGA!" She was about to reprimand her when Luna stopped her. "Let her have her moment. I say you both more than earned it," She mentioned with a grin.

Invoking and fusing Fluttershy and Rarity fears, Nightmare created a giant rag doll pony with two heads made of fabrics, giant needles, and horns everywhere to assist her and force Blood Moon to fight them both as she got more and more desperate. "You can't defeat me. I'm more than just a mere dream. I'm the downfall of rulers! I'm the Nightmare itself! I made sure of that, as long as ponies have fears in their dreams, I will never be truly gone!" Their combined attacks start to land on Blood Moon as needles find their target and begin to chip away his defenses.

"If you truly are the nightmare itself…" He charges his fist as his eyes glowing with more intensity "…then I will become what nightmares fear!" He proclaimed before hitting the Nightmare monster so hard that a giant hole, its legs, and half of one face disappeared, leaving behind a truly startled Nightmare as she was forced back from the recoil alone. Exploiting the momentum, Blood Moon went on the offensive and grabs her arm before jumps and spins in place just to ram her against the floor, making a crater. Nightmare blocks his follow up stop, and they both turn into mist as they race inside the Moon through its cave systems. Nightmare trying to run away in fear, not knowing how Blood Moon was guiding her straight to where he wanted, as he reappears in the only exit she has left.

"For my family, for my friends, and for my dreams…let the night be peaceful and beautiful once more!" The second Nightmare appeared. She was startled with his appearance as he forced her to turn solid. with a spell at the ready in the palm of his hand where a pure black orb, which he floats right into her injured side in her chest. "Feel the pain you caused my aunt, parasite! Quince Mill Pesadillas!" With one final yell, he extends his arm. Receiving the blast at point-blank, Nightmare was suddenly engulfed in pure darkness until not only her but absolutely everything in the path of the spell was reduced to nothing as it left a perfectly clean circle shape mark in its wake before everything started to fade away, including the prince. Foretelling the end of the dream, making him sigh in relief.

The pride of  aunt Luna, the paranoia of aunt Celestia, and their combined stubbornness, what a terrifying combo.

Blood moon closed his eyes for a second and took a deep breath before he started to hear voices in the distance. When opening again, he saw that everything was blurry and slowly gained focus until he saw his soldiers attending the elements in a similar situation.

"Are you ok, sir?" Daga asks him to noticing and approaching him as well.

"I am, thanks, just a bit tired" He then notices something peculiar when he felt something on his chest and looking at his right hoof "and confused, the dome is gone, and I didn't see the moon; how come I'm still Blood Moon?"

"Because this time, I granted you my magic directly." Luna replied calmly. "And from now on to make sure this will never happen again, my night will be all that you will ever need to change back and forth. At least as long as the night lasts", She proclaims before slowly approaching him with some uncertainty, "That is, of course, if you are willing to let me teach you."

The prince smiled and went to hug her, relief to be with his real aunt. "Nothing would make me happier, Auntie."

After the initial surprise, Luna smiled and returns the gesture, "Thank you."

"What happened to the Nightmare, Princess Luna?" Twilight asked, confused, "Is she gone?"

"Yeah, that Quanci Mall thingy Blue did was awesome and all, but do you think it finished the job?" Dash asked, hovering next to him

"Wait, you all saw it?" Blood Moon asked, surprised as they all nod.

"Twilight boosted our connection," Pinkie poked his and her head simultaneously before pressing their cheeks together. "We saw what you saw, and in exchange, we gave you a bit of our power. Why did you, though, manage to blow up that Nightmare so easily and still have enough juice for that blast later?" She explained with a giggle before separating.

"To answer your question, don't worry about her. She is not coming back", Luna stated with an unusually cold smile, confusing the group before turning around.

"Now let go everypony, my sister is most likely waiting for our return in Ponyville with the rest of the elements" She starts to march away, and after sharing some glances, everyone decided to shrug and just follow her along.

"Say Twilight. I also managed to glean a little about what happened to you. Tell me, how did you manage to avoid the side effects of becoming a pony of shadows?" He looks at her with a raised eyebrow catching her off guard

"Side effects? What side effects?"

"Well, I mean, you don't have fangs, and your fur isn't…" At that moment, the entire group becomes giant fluffy balls in front of him, yet none seem to have fangs, minus the twins who already had them "…never mind", Blood Moon says, trying his hardest to contain his laughter.

"Yeah! We are the mane fluffs now!" Pinkie jumps up and down in excitement.

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Somewhere in the darkest and deepest parts of the subconscious

Nightmare lands on her face into a steel floor where a spotlight is the only thing in the room as she looks around. "I…I'm still alive?" She slowly starts to laugh in victory. "I…I survived! That pathetic nephew couldn't finish me off. I'm invincible!"

"No" Suddenly, a childish voice alerted her, and looking back, she saw Blueblood's inner child; next to the Nightmare interpretation, both regarded her with neutral expressions. "It will simply be a slow burn."

"Do you think I'm scared, kid? Do your worst."

"Oh, don't worry, we will…eventually" Suddenly, she hears something growling, and from the shadows, the silhouette of a pack of giant wolves starts to appear and slowly approach her. Their teeth were red hot, their saliva was corrosive acid, and their eyes were hollow except for their leader who stood twice their size and looked like Blueblood, but his fur was greyer, his eyes were bloodshot, and his horn was cracked. "But, my friends here have the first turn."

Slowly backing away, Nightmare jumped to the side when she felt something bite her claw. Looking behind, she saw a little filly with a yellow raincoat that she couldn't distinguish her face next to a humanoid knight clad in armor holding another filly in his arms as more and more fillies start to appear behind and around him holding their stomach and keeping their eyes on her.

"Do you recognize them, Nightmare? They were your first victims"

Gulping, she tries to fly away, but her wings weren't responding as the creatures keep advancing at her, and the light bulb was starting to flicker. Before the lights die, she spots a vent and rushes toward it, making her escape, not seeing how Moon and the kid were smirking at her action. "Welcome to the first one."
> A Chat Under The Stars (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After the inevitable victory celebration in Ponyville, courtesy of Pinkie Pie, where friends and family reunited and stories were exchanged, things finally started to calm down in the castle of Friendship. Due to how late it was and how exhausted everyone was at the time, including the princess of the night herself. No one objected when Twilight invited them to spend the night at her home, where slumber soon claimed every one of the ponies and dragon there.

All but one prince who kept gazing at the moonlight from the balcony deep in thought, as the memories that the fake Nightmare Moon had shown him were still fresh in his mind. And the words of the ominous creature princess Celestia was chatting with kept adding more and more questions to his list.

"Blueblood?" Blinking a couple of times, the prince turned around to find Twilight looking on from the balcony entrance. "Why are you still awake?" She tilted her head and regarded him with a raised eyebrow.

"I could be asking you the same question, you know, it is pretty late."

"I just went for a glass of water," She responded, levitating the empty cup in question, "What about you? A bad dream?"

The prince sighed and nodded before looking at her. "You could say that. I couldn't sleep. There are so many things on my mind right now," He mentioned before returning his gaze to the moon. "What we experienced tonight shook me up."

"I know how you feel. When Nightmare Moon came back for the first time, I can certainly say that I was happy with how everything ended, but I would be lying if I told you that I could sleep the following nights peacefully." Twilight approached and leaned on the railing. "Would you like to talk about it? That always helped me."

"Isn't kind of late for that? I don't want to force you to stay up for my sake."

"Relax, it's not like this is my first time doing this or staying up this late. You wouldn't be forcing anything." She dismissed his concerns with a wave of the hoof and a reassuring smile. "Now, let me hear it. What is in your mind, cousin."

Sighing in defeat, the prince decided to give in and take her offer, there wasn't anything to lose, and he could even fish for some answers from her in the process.

"I suppose, it's mainly how unreal and chaotic my life has turned out recently." He confessed, looking at the Balcony floor for a moment before looking up and pointing at the town below the two. "Don't get me wrong, this is exactly what I always wanted, as a kid, and I'm thankful for how things are—going on adventures, having a caring family, being a hero, unraveling mysteries. I should be the happiest stallion alive right now. And yet…"

"…it's not exactly what you imagined, right?" Twilight inquired with a hint of sadness in her tone.

"Well, yes and no. I mean, I'm happy that my prayers were answered, and I wouldn't trade my life for anything in the world, but things? They just keep happening so fast, Twilight. Realizing I'm a new world. Adapting to a new culture, going into the occasional adventure. At first, it was awesome. Still, at some point, I started to feel like I was only hopping from one problem into another, each one more difficult and crazier than the last one, and well, I can't believe I am saying this, but, for once, I would like to go back and have some normalcy in my life. Some common issues to solve. Helping my aunts with their jobs, seeing how I could help Canterlot improve. Resolving any lingering issues my past self left behind. Heck, I'd even take some boring meeting with the other rulers over risking my neck on another crazy adventure. I'm not even sure I can overcome another ordeal like this one, Twilight. I need a break from all of this, and I don't know how to do it."

She simply smiled in understanding and put her right hoof over his shoulder, looking up at the moon. "I know how you feel."

That caught him off guard as he looked over to her, who nodded once again while continuing to take in the starry sky above.

"You do?"

"Well, perhaps not completely how you feel, maybe Rainbow Dash knows more about this subject, but even though the exact opposite happened, the experience allows for me to appreciate the simple things in life, and I understand that normality will always be there, even here in this crazy little town." She chuckled as she looked at the sleepy city in the distance and started to reminisce.

"When I first moved here. The first thing I thought was that everyone in this town was crazy, and I couldn't wait to go back to Canterlot after finishing the job princess Celestia assigned me. But then, Nightmare Moon happened, and after understanding the importance of Friendship, I decided to stay and keep studying the subject."

"Studying the subject?" The prince repeated, confused about how she referred to it like it was a science fair experiment, which made her giggle.

"Yeah, I know, I was going about it the wrong way. And like you, everything seemed fine at first. I was content to analyze things as they happened, fill out a report, send it to the princess, rinse and repeat, but then one day, things stopped. There were no friendship issues, no reports to fill, no wacky adventures to have, nothing for me to do or learn. And that prospect scared me to no end. I'm not going to go into details of what happened because it's kind of a long story, but let's say…I spiraled out, and things got out of control, just to have a friendship problem to resolve." She confessed with a not so small degree of embarrassment. "I was so bad that princess Celestia herself had no choice but to intervene and clean up the mess I caused."

"Wow, sounds heavy."

"Oh, you don't have an idea, and trust me, if I wasn't scared before. The idea of possible punishment left me fearing for my life. That is, of course, until both the princess and my friends helped me realize what I was doing and how I was making a big deal out of something insignificant. It was all just in my head. And I think what is bothering you is all in yours as well."

"What do you mean?" Blueblood raised an eyebrow at her analysis in confusion.

"As I said, I don't know if I'm the right mare to talk about it. But I can tell you this. Like me, you are stressing over something that's not there, and no pony will blame you for taking things easy for a while. Do you want a break from all of those adventures? Then do that. The only one stopping you is yourself. Please don't make the same mistake I did. Stop and smell the roses." She advised him, "Believe me, you don't want to end up with a bird's nest on your head."

"Birds nest on…"

"…don't ask! Just trust me on this one. If I can learn to let go of a schedule and have fun, so can you. You only need to take it one step at a time."

He sighed in defeat and looked down in shame. "You are right, Twilight. I am getting worked up over nothing and losing sight of the small joys of life. I really should try to take things easy and occupy my time with other things. I think that I've been neglecting my duties a couple of times. I should go back to my plan of helping out my aunties and improve the city wherever I can." he confessed, bringing his hoof up to his chin.

"There you go! See? It's easy. All you need to do is calm down, relax, and let everything follow its natural path."

Blueblood finally shot her a smile. "Still, I don't think I will be able to ignore the call for adventure if it arises."

"Or that I'd ignore a friendship problem, the key is in that sentence, Blueblood. It's a 'call,' not a job, or a daily necessity. Those kinds of things need to come to you naturally, got it?"

"Got it. I will certainly keep that in mind."

"Good, and you know if you need any more advice, you can always write me a letter or two about the lessons you have learned on the way."

That earned a smirk from the prince. "Really, Twilight?"

"Can you blame me? Princess of Friendship here, I love to keep in contact with my friends and learn new things…speaking of which, and since we are both awake, do you think…"

"You want to learn more about my dusk form and the Nightmare Opera spell, don't you?" Blueblood asked her with a knowing smile.

"Yes, please."

He chuckled lightly and shook his head. "Ah, what the heck, it would only be fair. Besides, the responsible thing to do would be to register this as a kind of new magic, right?"

"Yep," Twilight nodded eagerly as she conjured a scroll, bottle of ink, and a feather. "Something this huge deserves to be taught to the generations to come."

"Ok, but only a brief synopsis on its origins and some warnings, ok? We both still need our sleep," The prince warned.

"Relax, this will only take a couple of minutes, half an hour tops."



Knocking on the door, Pinkie wandered inside Blueblood's room while stirring a bowl full of cake mix. "Wakey, wakey Bluey, I'm making my famous three-layer breakfast cake, and you simply need to taste…" She stopped once she saw the room full of scrolls scattered and spread all over the place with long strings of equations and pictures of the moon. What appeared to be an image of Blood Moon and Midnight Sparkle. In the middle of all the mess, the royal cousins were soundly asleep and cuddled together using pieces of scrolls and parchment as makeshift blankets. "…aw Twilight, you meany! You had a slumber party, and you didn't invite me? Just for that, no cake for you." She exclaimed, crossing her forehooves before slowly smiling and poking Twilight check. "Oh, I can't stay mad at my friends. Ok, I'll let this time pass, but this isn’t in no way over Sparkles, and Bluey still needs to taste my cake, so it's time to wake up." She circled around the two until an idea popped out of her head and smirked.

Stretching one of her back hooves to an exaggerated degree until it reached the door, Pinkie vanished in a poof of smoke before reappearing a second later with a camera strapped to her neck. "Say cheese!" Pinkie instructed and pointed the object directly at the slumbering pair to take a picture with a blinding flash.

The reaction was immediate as both woke with a start. Simultaneously and out of instinct calling upon their magic forth before circling in place, searching. "Wha…where…what happened? What time is it?" Blueblood stuttered until he saw a nearby grandfather clock "8 am? We spend the entire night talking about Blood Moon?"

"Well, not exactly. Only until we both passed out from exhaustion." Twilight clarified. "Which I'm not so sure when that happened." She said, looking around as well, and the prince could swear Twilight was saying, "Worth it" under her breath.

A groan caught the attention of the two, and looked towards the sound. They saw a hole in the wall in the shape of Pinkie Pie.

"Pinkie!" Twilight exclaimed, and both rushed toward the said hole. "Pinkie, are you ok?" Twilight used her magic to get her out of the wreckage and cleaned off the debris as she was still dizzy.

"I…" she started to utter, still trying to regain her senses.

"Take your time, Pinkie, deep breaths," Blueblood instructed as they waited for her to recover. "I…got it!" She suddenly grinned at the pair and showed them the picture of them soundly asleep, "Blueblood's first slumber party memory! This is going into the album." She announced before dashing away before her head reappeared from the door. "Oh, and I'm making my special three-layer breakfast cake. Hurry up."

That caught the prince's attention. "Did she just say breakfast cake?"

"Yeah, that's just Pinkie being Pinkie. Don't pay her too much…" Twilight started to explain as she was picking up scrolls until she realized she was talking to the air.

"Hurry up, Twilight! God, please let it be buttercream frosting!"

She heard coming from the hallway, and there she stood, blinking a couple of times in surprise, before chuckling. “That is it cousin, just like that, one step at a time”
> Pinky Pie Proposal (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Are you sure you don't want to lay down and rest a little bit longer? Take it from me. Nothing good ever comes up from pushing yourself too hard," AJ questioned in a worried tone as she saw the prince struggle to keep his eyes open as he attempted to serve himself a slice of cake, holding in a yawn. Twilight was in the same as him, and although they didn't seem all that tired, she could see how they both could use a quick nap. "I'm serious. We are even letting the princesses sleep in a bit longer for how exhausted they were last night. Even princess Luna, for pony's sake! If even she needs to sleep, I don't even know how you can stay up like this"

"Don't worry, Ms. Applejack, I'm perfectly…" Blueblood covered his mouth as he yawns and occasionally slipped into his more formal speech patterns "…fine, but I appreciate your concern. I will sleep in the chariot."

"I still can't believe you had a sleepover after what we went through," Dash mentioned while chewing on a bit of her breakfast. "Even I think that is too much."

"And I say it was mean of you not to invite us Twilight," Pinkie remarked, still irked by the whole ordeal. "We were practically next door!"

"I'm with Pinkie on that one," Starlight mentioned, equally irked at her. "And you too, Blueblood. The newest branch of research and cataloging of the newest type of magic in this century. And you exclude me? I was your first magic teacher! I taught you the basics of how to use your horn. Didn't that mean anything?" She bawled, showing how hurt she was as she looked away.

"Of course it did. Please miss Starlight; it wasn't like that…and we didn't cover all of it. There is still plenty more to register and catalog, and I would very much like to have the assistance of a lovely maiden such as yourself when I continue that project."

"…You promise?" She looked over her shoulder at him as he nodded. "Twilight might be my cousin, and she may be pretty smart, but as you said, you were my first teacher. There is no way I would leave you out."

"Well, I suppose I can forgive you this time, but you better include me for the next session!" She warned them both.

"Honestly, Twilight, you should be more conscious of your beauty sleep. You will start to gain wrinkles if you are not careful." Rarity added, cleaning her muzzle with a napkin.

"Come on, everyone, no need to be so hard on Twilight," Blueblood spoke up. "If anyone was responsible for what happened, it was me. I couldn't sleep last night because of what we went through. Well, Twilight offered to keep me company until I feel better. We talked about it and registered the spells I made that Twilight wanted to know about…" The prince briefly paused when he saw how all the mares in the room, including his guards, rolled their eyes simultaneously with a smirk as if they knew about that little quirk of Twilights. "…and we kind of lost track of time, that is all. It wasn't in any way, a sleepover."

"I'd still count it. You two had a moment of bonding and spent the night having fun and learning more from one another. It WAS a sleepover." Pinkie remained adamant and pointed at Twilight. "And you know what that means, don't you, Twilight?"

"Huh? I'm…" She blinked a couple of times, not knowing what she was implying.

"Since you and Blueblood had a sleepover, then all of us have the right to have an individual sleepover with him too." She states, crossing her hooves and gaining the attention of all the mares and dragon present in the room.

"An individual sleepover? How the hay does that even work?" AJ turned to Spike in search of an answer, but he merely shrugged, equally lost.

"Easy, we select a day, and Blueblood goes and spends the night in each of our homes where we play and sleep and eat all sorts of candy! Doesn't that sound like fun?" Pinkie elaborated in excitement.

"Ah, eh P…Pinkie, wouldn't it be nice if instead, we all had just a regular sleepover with all at us at once?" Fluttershy proposed to her.

"Aw, come on, girls, aren't you even a little bit interested in the idea?" Pinkie argued back before placing herself next to Blueblood. "Besides, let's be honest here, we don't exactly have many stallion friends, and I don't want to exclude Bluey from learning more about friendship just because he is a boy."

"But a sleepover with only the two of us? Pinkie darling, don't you think that's a bit much?" Rarity tried to negotiate with her. "I know you are a bit sad that they didn't invite you, but what you are saying sounds a bit weird."

"How do you know? Have you ever had a sleepover with stallions before?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, no."

"And don't you want to dive into a new fashion challenge? You could try your hoof at making male clothes for royalty~" Pinkie suggested in a sing-song voice catching Rarity's attention.

"I didn't think of that" She placed one of her hooves under her chin with a growing smile at the prospect. "I could design a completely new wardrobe line. No…I could even try my hooves at a new world of fashion I have never visualized before in my life!" She exclaimed, getting more and more excited much to the growing concern of the prince.

"And Applejack, you always say how proud you are of your farm and how your family grows the best apples in all of Equestria. Wouldn't you like to invite Bluey to your home so he could have a taste of real homemade dinner?"

"Of course, I would! We Apples would be happy to host any guests at our home! Blueblood would always be welcome to visit if he wanted. I'm sure that as long as I do my chores and tell her ahead of time, Granny wouldn't mind." She replied with pride, liking the idea.

"Are you seriously considering it now?!" Rainbow Dash asked the two in disbelief.

"You have to admit, she does raise good points, Rainbow," Spike told her.

"But…but we haven't even known him for that long!" Rainbow kept up the pressure as she pointed at Blueblood.

"All the more reason why a sleepover could be a great idea!" Pinkie jumped on the table to be in front of her before smirking, "Unless, of course, you are scared."

"What!?" Rainbow flew up towards her face, particularly offended by that comment, "I'm not afraid of anything!"

"Then why are you so opposed to the idea? Is it because you live on a cloud?"

"She lives on a what now?" Blueblood blinked a couple of times, not sure he heard her right.

"Of course not!"

"Then is it because you don't want him near you? Is that it?"

"What? No, of course, I don't mind if he is near or not. He seems like a cool dude. I wouldn't mind hanging out, but still…"

"And aren't you even the slightest bit interested in sharing stories on how awesome you are and all of your adventures as well as showing off all of your moves to an audience that has never seen the great Rainbow Dash in action?" That comment left Rainbow Dash silent as she processed what she just heard. "You could show him your rainboom~" Pinkie suggested wiggling her eyebrows.

"But…The thing… it's not like…because he is a stallion I…" Rainbow tried to argue back, but she was lost and didn't know how to reply.

"Just imagine, leaving the prince with his jaw on the floor as you break the sound barrier."

The prince had enough at that point and stood up. "Wait, wait, wait! Let's not…what?" The prince stopped and looked at Pinkie with surprise and confusion before shaking his head and resumes, "…let not jump into anything yet. Listen, I admit I'm flattered by the idea, intrigued even. That homemade meal sounds enticing, and the stars know what you and I could do, Pinkie, even knowing that it will somehow involve cake, but unfortunately, we can't just plan something like that out of the blue, no pun intended. There is still a lot of things I need to do in Canterlot. I'm sure you too with the school, your jobs, not to mention Nightmare Night so close. So maybe it would be better if we put a pin in that idea for the time being."

"Y-yeah! You are right, Blueblood!" Fluttershy nodded and stood up as well, "we can't just forget our chores and throw a party at random like that! I would love to have you over, of course, but maybe it will be for the best if we plan it out first, maybe set a date, once our schedules are freer?"

"Exactly! I'm not saying no to the idea. I was saying, why don't we calmly think about it and see how we could do it." Blueblood suggested.

"Aw, but you and Twilight had a spontaneous sleepover. Why can't we have one too?"

"It wasn't a sleepover!" Twilight insisted.

"Tell you what? Why don't I pay you a surprise visit? I come to sugar cube corner, unannounced, go into the kitchen, cover your eyes, and after playing 'guess who' we spend the rest of the day together?"

Pinkie mull it over, "Can it be at night?"

"That would defeat the purpose of spending…" Pinkie knelt in front of him and put her frontal hooves together as her lower lip quivered, and she gave him her puppy eyes look, making him sigh in defeat "…fine, it could be at night for a sleepover."

"Could you break in through an open window?"

"Pinkie, I'm a prince, not a burglar. I'm not going to do that?" Blueblood sighed, slightly frustrated by her weird request.

"Please? It will make things more spontaneous."

Once again, he was confronted by the same gaze. He looked up, trying to think of something until an idea arrived as he slowly looked at her with a smirk. "You want a spontaneous sleepover, right?"

"Yeah," She agreed in excitement.

"I think I have just the thing."

"Oh! What is it? What is it?" She bounced in place, but he stopped her by placing his hoof on top of her head. "Ah-ha Pinkie, if I tell you, it would no longer be spontaneous, right?" He patted her head a couple of times. "You will just have to wait and see."

"Oh! But now I want to know!" She complained, more intrigued now.

"Good, that will make things better, know this, stop expecting. Because it might not be tomorrow or next week, but when you least expect it…I will make my move. So, best, you forget all about it, as fast as possible!" He recommended.

"But…"

"Ah! The more you think about it, the longer you will have to wait"

"Oh! It's so frustrating, but so exciting at the same time! All right, fine! I will wait, but please don't take too long!" To his surprise, the prince could see smoke coming from the top of her head at the conundrum as she took a seat in defeat.

"Then it decided, minus Pinkie, we will think this over carefully and see how things work out, ok? Maybe starting after Nightmare Night so we don't end up with too many things on top of each other, ok?" Blueblood suggested, and they all nodded in agreement in time to hear the doors of the dining hall opening, and from it, the royal sisters walked inside. "What has been placed on top of each other?" Celestia asked, rubbing one eye while looking at the group in slight confusion.

"Good morning, aunties. We were planning some small get-togethers between us." Blueblood was quick to answer before going to them and exchanging pleasantries.

"That sounds like a wonderful idea," Celestia mentioned while reminiscing. "It will certainly be nice to visit Ponyville under better circumstances."

"Yet, unfortunately, such events will have to be placed on hold." Luna regretfully informed them before addressing Twilight. "We thank you for your hospitality, Miss Sparkle, but I'm afraid it's time for us to take our leave and return to Canterlot, we have been absent for far too long, and our subjects must be worried about our whereabouts." Luna explained.

"I understand, princess, the girls and I should also be heading back to school anyway, so this seems like a good place for us to say our goodbyes." She bowed to them before levitating some slices of cake to the princesses. "But before you go, please take at least a slice of cake with you, so you don't return with empty stomachs."

"It's my famous breakfast cake!" Pinkie added, "You're gonna love it."

They chuckled and nodded, taking the pastries with their magic. "I'm sure we will Pinkie, thank you for the small snack," Celestia stated as she and Luna turn around and headed to the door again, the twins opening the door for them. "Come along, Blueblood. It is time to go home."

"Coming," Blueblood called out before looking at the group. "As soon as I get things in order, I will send you a letter to see when we can plan those sleepovers."

"We will be awaiting partner."

"Just remember not to take too long!" Pinkie insisted, still slightly frustrated, making everyone laugh as they exchanged their goodbyes and went their separate ways.

Once in the chariot, both princesses didn't waste time and enjoyed their small treat. Celestia noticing how her nephew seemed tired and was occasionally yawning as he fought to keep his eyes open.

"Is everything ok, sweetie? You look kind of tired" She looked at him with some worry as he yawned once more and shook the sleep away.

"I'm ok, auntie, it's just that I had a hard time sleeping last night…like at all." He confessed, earning the attention of both alicorns as he leaned against Luna's side while she opened one of her wings and slowly guided his head towards the base of her wing. "There is nothing to worry about. I had a lot in mind after the whole ordeal we had last night. Memories that fake nightmare showed me and the stress of having so many adventures in such a short amount of time. I still have them, but thanks to Twilight, I decided to put them on hold and simply relax for a while" He suppressed another yawn before continuing, "She found me gazing at the stars last night. After we talked, I managed to calm down, and we exchanged stories. She had a similar experience with stress with something about no friendship…no reports…and a bird's nest." He told the royal pair, slipping into and out of consciousness as he was slowly closed his eyes. "For now, I think I will take it easy and stop postponing my duties. There is a lot to do, mistakes to fix…promises to…keep."

Smiling in understanding, Luna covers his body with her wing and helps him relax with a bit of magic. "You can tell us the later rest nephew, for now, just sleep."

He nodded and closed his eyes, letting himself drift into slumber. Once soundly asleep, Luna regarded Celestia with a raised eyebrow. "Did he said a bird's nest?"

"Must be referring to an ordeal Twilight had some years ago, back when she was still struggling with a predetermined schedule and how not to let it control her life." She smiled at the memory and shook her head. "Oh, that Twilight, she used to be so rigid and strict with herself back then."

"We have time sister, why don't you tell me about it?" Luna asked, intrigued.

"Well, I only know part of the story, but it all began when I got a report about Cerberus leaving his post guarding the underworld gates…"
> Luna The Teacher (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Nephew, you have no idea how happy it makes me that you decided to take my offer for me giving you tutelage in the art of studying body language and your connection with my starry night," Luna mentioned as she and the prince walked through the hallways of the castle, carrying with them a pair of wooden practice swords, dressed in gambesons for comfort and movement and the princess, in particular, skipped along on occasion and sported a big grin on her face as they approached their destination.

"I can tell," Blueblood replied with a smirk before looking at their weapons. "So why are we bringing these wooden swords with us?"

"For our session, of course," Luna quickly replied with a smile. "Did commander Hurricane ever tell you about reading your opponent's movements?"

"Ah, auntie, I think that is a different kind of body language."

"You would be surprised, Tia might be a more technical teacher, but I prefer a more direct approach. I believe that the fastest way of learning any subject is by practice. I understand your confusion about why we are starting like this instead of reading a book about paying attention to facial expressions or that sort but to be perfectly honest. I always considered that method boring. Slow and sometimes inefficient."

Her smile then was replaced with a frown of disappointment for a moment. "I would have taken the chance to teach you about controlling the positioning and angle of a real sword to fool your opponents too, but…" She sighed in frustration and looked at the ceiling "…you cause ONE small fire in the castle, and then no pony ever lets it go! So we will have to start with the basics until dear sister, considers I'm "responsible enough to work with fire."" She mumbled, her irritation as obvious as the air quotes she made as they finally exited the hallway and into the royal garden.

"Ah…how exactly do you cause a fire using a sword?" Blueblood questioned, perplexed at the statement.

"Completely irrelevant!" She quickly dismissed, and her mood soon improved once they reach their destination. "Oh, look, we are here!"

The two reached a clearing with a distinct ring at its center where two stallions, one a tall and bulky earth pony and the other a slender bat pony with silver straight mane and tail, were waiting stoically in the center of the ring. Both fully covered their traditional armor that covered any major characteristics, so the prince couldn't distinguish anything out of the ordinary of the two besides their most prominent features " Ok, nephew, before we begin the first lesson, I'm going to give you a demonstration of what I've been talking about. Before analyzing your adversary's facial expressions, I will break down how to study your opponent's body language. You are going to love it! Now go sit over there and let auntie give you a show." Luna instructed as she entered the arena and levitated her sword while adopting an aggressive stance. The guards hefted their respective weapons and did the same. A pair of what the prince could only assume was boxing gloves but for hooves for the earth pony and a set of wooden daggers attached to the base of the bat pony's wings.

"Wait! Two against one? Isn't that a bit unfair?" The prince complained once he saw what was about to happen, making Luna look at him in confusion and then think about the prospect

"You might be right, nephew, but it's too late to request a unicorn guard now, even if this is just for demonstration. Oh! I know what if I don't use magic?" She offered, canceling her spell and grabbing the sword with the frog of her left hoof "There, that should even the odds."

"That is not what I…"

Before he could finish, they lunged at each other, and after the princess blocked their first strike, she gracefully disengaged by taking one step back. The guards pressed their supposed advantage and did their best to land the first blow, with Luna wove through each attempt effortlessly. "…meant?" The prince kept watching at how both guards keep trying to strike her and move to spread out and circle the princess—attacking from broader and greater angles, trying to see if any of their weapons would connect. 
Eventually, the princess was forced to start to parry attacks instead of just dodging, but throughout the flurry of hooves and blades, the princess remained calm, and her eyes kept scanning her opponents.

"Pay attention, nephew! observe my movements carefully, notice how every step I make is calculated and precise." As if to demonstrate, she seemingly drifts backward just in time to avoid a swipe from the bat ponies blades only to deflect a strike from his companion, catching his gloved hoof with her guard before twisting the blade around to rest along the stallion's neck. Applying pressure to the sword and turning, Luna twisted the earth pony stallion off balance, and then she pushed him backward, causing him to stumble and nearly crash into his smaller partner. 

The bat pony avoided this, though, by taking to the air with his wings arching up before diving down on the princess like a bird of prey. Lowering her head, Luna avoided the strike. Before her opponent could rise and face her again, she placed her sword in front of the base of his wing and used both blade and limb as a leaver. Once more, unbalancing her smaller opponent. Spinning like a top with the guard in tow, she used her flank to knock the stallion's hind hooves out from under him. Luna released him quickly after that, letting the momentum of the spin spill the guardstallion rump-over-head, making one complete rotation in the air before he managed to catch himself by flaring his wings. Regaining his balance before touching down on the ground once more.

"Each time you draw breath, your entire body moves, and each action transitions into the next one, nostrils, chest, ears, neck, don't focus so much on the obvious targets. Think logically, watch the flow of muscles."

The prince could see how she deliberately inhaled loudly and paid attention to her moments as she continued to fight. He wasn't sure if she somehow was deliberately controlling her muscles or if his perception was getting faster. Still, he was starting to see small glimpses of what she was saying like dots lighting up, even if only in the apparent targets at first. Little spasm in her left leg before she sidestepped, her ears folding flat before she lowered her head, her chest rising as she inhaled before engaging in a block. It was hard to follow, but slowly he was starting to see a certain rhythm to Luna's actions. However, he was still incapable of seeing anything from the guards.

"Focus only on me, nephew! It is, as of yet, too soon for you to test this skill in the field! To correctly predict each strike and pattern your opponent makes, as well as adapting to their style and the flow of it, even if they decided to change mid-battle. It is impossible for the untrained eye." Luna instructed, raising her wings to block his vision and return him to reality as he shook his head and refocused his attention back to her.

"But for those that refine it…" She pushed the guards back and swept her blade low, catching the earth pony leading leg. Tripping him and causing him to block the bat ponies field of vision for a brief moment, giving Luna the window of opportunity to strike forward and force him back to the ground before lightly placing the point of the sword on his neck while firmly pressing a hind hoof into the back of the earth pony keeping him from rising to continue the fight. "…is as easy as blinking" She stepped back helped the two stallions stand up again. "Thank you for your service, gentlestallions. You are dismissed."

"Yes, ma'am!" Both guards saluted, stowing their weapons in a nearby rack before leaving but not before looking at Blueblood and giving him a short, respectful bow to the shock prince. "Your highness."

"Sweetie, you will catch a bug if you keep that face." Luna giggled at his expression and helped him close his mouth, allowing him to come back to reality. "So, how was it? Did I impress you?" She raised an eyebrow with a smirk.

"Impress? Impress? I…that was incredible!" Blueblood yelled in excitement, "How you move, how you counter, how you dominated the entire fight. Commander Hurricane taught me a bit about reading your opponent but what you did was on a whole different level to what she taught me! It was like you were playing. I thought you were dancing at some points! Wait, were you dancing?"

The barrage of praise inflated luna's pride and ego as she helped Blueblood slow down. "Some can consider it a waltz, yes. I call it the "Silver Waltz" in honor of the metal we use in our weapons and how they are displayed in all of their beauty…yet another thing that will have to wait to be seen because of a certain SISTER!" She yelled out in anger, looking at the palace before relaxing her features as she regarded him. "I'm happy you noticed. If you apply this correctly, you indeed could control the fight to the point where your opponent becomes your puppet. You can even blind them occasionally by using the reflection of a blade, which is a magnificent spectacle of lights. Would you like to learn it?"

"Would I?" The prince jumped to his hooves and into the ring with gusto, quickly falling into a similar guard to what he observed earlier with the wooden waster sword he brought along. "I'm more than fired up now! Please teach me how to do the silver waltz."

The princess had to pause for a moment to hide a choked sob and to clear a tear from her eye when she heard that. "You have no idea how long have I been waiting for you to say those words, nephew. I knew that there is the soul of a warrior within you." She then entered the ring herself settled into a more aggressive guard her tone, turning a touch more severe but keeping her smile. "And now I will finally be able to pass on my teachings into the next generation. Defend yourself!"

Both launch at one another as they sparred for what seemed like an eternity as Luna tested and guided the fight turning it into a lesson and correcting each move he made until eventually Bluebloods body gave up and collapsed in exhaustion. Covered in sweat, the prince panted as he lay on the ground completely spent, while Luna didn't seem fazed by their work out at all as she put her sword away.

"I think this is enough for tonight," She informed, keeping her grin. "Aunt Hurricane taught you well nephew, your mastery of the basics is admirable, but they can still use some refinement before we try the more advanced techniques."

"No!…not yet…I…I still can…just one more time!" He gasped out in between pants, managing to lift his upper body with shaking legs as he used the sword as a crutch to keep his balance while looking at her, to which Luna only shook her head and easily took the weapon out of his hooves, making him stumble and land in her wings "Oh no, you won't young colt, not this time. That is not going to work with me, I'm not my sister, and I intend to work on that propensity of yours of working yourself into a coma. It's well past time that you learned when enough is enough, and for tonight, this is as far as you are getting. Do I make myself clear?" She ordered with a stern look

"But, auntie, it still too early, and I…"

"AH! Didn't you promise your cousin that you will take things slow and steady for a while?" She cut the price off with a raised eyebrow

"…yes" He nodded, lowering his head in defeat.

"Then we are finished for the night. Now relax, and go to bed, nephew. Here I will teleport us to your room."

"It's ok, Auntie. I can…"

"We are already here," Luna says with finality, and before he could finish, she already moved them to his room, much to his surprise as he could only blink. "Now to bed," She ordered, pointing at the object in question.

"Can I at least wash off my sweat and change clothes first?"

She thought it over and relaxed a little with a hmmm before nodding. "A nice warm shower could help you relax your muscles. You may proceed. We will carry on tomorrow night at the same hour." She said before heading to the door. "Until then, good night, nephew, I better see you in the dream realm soon, or I’ll hunt you down~" She half-jokingly promised, keeping the same warm smile on her face.

Sighing in defeat, the prince accepted his fate and headed to the bathroom before something came to his mind. "Auntie," He called out for her, making her stop. "Before you go, I have to ask what is harder to learn? Body language or facial expressions?"

"Why do you wish to know?"

"Because I want to be ready, for when I face the other rulers." He mentioned before looking at his desk.

Confused, Luna turned around and looked at him before following his gaze and understood what he was looking at. The numerous letters of various rulers addressed to him. One didn't need to be a genius to understand their contents and the intentions behind them. They were meeting requests subtlety covered in generic greetings and desire to get to know him better. His exploits in Manehattan still made his mind a rare and intriguing target to dissect and use. And the fact that he has yet to reply to any of them seemed only to make them more determined to gain his favor. A part of the princesses was surprised that all of them kept their requests more or less civil and sober with just letters and didn't resort to cheap bribes or 'gifts' to sway his interest towards one of them…not yet, at least.

"It grows ever more tiring, viewing their persistence, right?" Luna commented with a knowing smile approaching him, "Count your blessings that there aren't mares swooned by your charms and wanting to court you. Suiters... ugh. Now THOSE are pests that can survive the test of time, I tell you." She joked, trying to lighten the mood, with success as he soon joined in.

"Those are the curse of beauty, no?"

"That plays a factor indeed, but it also helps to be a princess of a prominent kingdom, especially one that has been absent for a very long time. Giving them the false idea that she could be innocent and oblivious to the more recent forms of flirting." She explained with an exasperated sigh.

"Sounds tough" Blueblood looked at her in pity before they both looked at the pile again.

"Indeed, it is, and by your claim, am I to assume that you finally made up your mind and wish to inform them of your answer in person?"

He nods before looking at her. "Yeah, I'm done questioning if I should or shouldn't teach my knowledge of marketing and conducting business, I have come to a decision, and all the nations we had to establish friendly relationships deserve a straight answer, not from a letter but coming from me in person bia caldrum, that would make things fair and easier for everyone."

"But lacking any experience in dealing with kings and ambassadors, you fear you might start an international incident. You might make Equestria look weak or easy to push when it comes to negotiation or be manipulated by the unquestioned masters of the field, am I right?"

The prince only looked down with a nod as the princess could see how he held one of his frontal hooves to stop it from trembling. It had been doing that on occasion, and she attributed it to all their exercise, but now, she saw that there was more to it.

Sighing, she turned around and looked at the door. "Facial expressions are not that different than body language training…but by the gods; even learning by practice will be boring." She confessed in exasperation. "So, you better not go complaining once we start tomorrow."

That made the prince perk up once more, and he looked at her with a tired smile. "Thank you, auntie."

"Save it for when we begin, and you better remember every lesson Flicker taught you, nephew because we are gonna participate in a ton of noble parties!" The last sentence was said with dread on her tone, as she didn't want to be involved in that kind of activity.

By Faust, he better appreciate what I'm doing.

"And nephew, since we were talking about the subject, what decision did you eventually make," Luna asked, intrigued, only for him to smirk. "As you said, auntie, this as far as we go tonight, I will tell you later. Rest well, Aunt Luna." He gave her a quick kiss on the check before heading to the bathroom, leaving her blinking in slight surprise before relaxing.

Using my own words against me, well played nephew. Maybe you will not need that much coaching, after all.

She shook her head with a smile and turned around before leaving the room.

Meanwhile, at the crystal empire.

The royal family looked at how Sharp Shot demonstrated his new arrows' application by shooting at the crystal that Cadence used in her class. The moment it impacted, the simple arrow turned into light and was absorbed into the orb, which shined an intense red. The next arrow turned it a mellow pink and, finally, an ocean blue before he shot a grey arrow that turned it back to normal.

Once finished, he brought the gem to the couple to see that it only had one small scratch on it. "As you can see, I have taken all the precautions necessary before even floating the idea of field testing my invention, including developing a way to cancel it."

"Impressive, although I'm still not completely sure about this. The obvious next test would be to deploy it on volunteers, and I don't like the idea of shooting a living being." Cadence confided, still concerned by the whole ordeal.

"I can assure you that everything will be conducted in a safe, secure environment, your highness, starting with small doses of injections with the cure on hoof so that we can focus our attention on the observation period."

"Well, so far, you have kept your promise, and each of your tests has been successful, not to mention that I keep liking the idea of a less lethal alternative when subduing an attacker." Shining voiced his opinion, "Granted that you keep following the Yarmurgel Convention, Mr. Shot." Shining looked at him with a critical eye.

"You have my word, I even have film and the data of the procedures for you to inspect if you wish to," Sharp explained, pointing at the pile of folders and film cases left on the table.
Weighing her options, Cadence looked at her husband. "What do you say Shining, should we give it a try?"

"I still have my reservations, but this research data seems solid and with ample potential. Even if we reject it, others might finish it. This way, we can still control it and ensure that it will not be used for the wrong reasons."

"I agree, that sounds like the best course of action." Cadence nodded before addressing their guest. "Ok, Sharp Shot, you have our approval to proceed into live testing under the condition that we get daily briefings on your progress and are present when testing the first functional arrow. If it proves to be a success, we will pass on to a field trial."

"I wouldn't want it any other way, your highness. Thank you for granting me this opportunity." Sharp bowed and left, hiding a small smirk as he walked through the corridors.
> My Promise To The Sun (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After fulfilling her daily routine of raising the sun, Princess Celestia was on her way to take a quick shower, don her royal regalia and begin her duties when a knock on the door caught her attention and prevented her from grabbing a towel as she turned to the door frame.

"Auntie, is me, can I come in?" She heard from the other side, calming her down a little, although she was still curious as to why he was knocking on the door this early in the morning.

Using her magic, she opened the door and let the prince in. "Good morning dear, what is it? Is there something you wish to tell me?" She looked at him with a raised eyebrow, and her curiosity increased once she noticed that he was carrying a saddlebag and was accompanied by Luna, who seemed as happy as he was. Though, Celestia could detect a hint of mischievousness behind Luna's smile.

What are you plotting, sister? She questioned herself for a moment before speaking up. "Oh, and good morning to you too sister, I have to say I'm honestly surprised to see you here as well."

"Never-mind me, sister, I'm just here as a spectator, of what is about to happen…and to avoid a murder, or perhaps a suicide?" She was quick to answer and question herself on what the right terms were as she invited herself to one of Celestia's pillows in the room where she didn't waste time sitting on it and watching the two closely, confusing Celestia even more.

"What?"

Before she could ask anything else, Blueblood cleared the air. "It's about the promise I made to you some months ago, auntie. A lot has happened, and we were forced to put it on hold, but I didn't forget, and I always keep my promises, which is why I left everything ready for today." He took a step closer and closed his eyes for what his aunt Luna warned him. "One whole day for just the two of us. Like a mommy and son day sort of thing." (Just as he promise way back at the ‘Plans At Sunset’ chapter) 

"A mother/son…?" It took a moment for Celestia to recall, but she did. The memory of Blueblood making such a promise came floating back, and she responded with a growing eagerness. "A mother/ son day? Just for us?"

"Yes"

"All day long?"

"A-yep"

Before he could react, Celestia let out a screech so intense the windows of her room cracked, and she was in the process of doing the same to Blueblood's poor spine with a bear hug if not for the timely intervention of Luna, who teleported him away so he can regain his breath. "Told you she would do it" Luna looked at him in triumph as she extended her hoof, and Blueblood begrudgingly gave her 20 bits to settle their bet as Celestia recovered from her high, only for her eyes to grow wide in sudden concern.

"But we can't. There is a lot that I still need to do today."

"All taken care of auntie, your schedule is officially free for the day."

"What of the documents that still need my signatures?" Celestia pointed out

"Aunt Luna will cover for today in exchange for being here," Blueblood answered, and the princess in question nodded when looking at Celestia, keeping her mischievous smile.

"My meetings?" She continued.

"Aunt Pudding Head has got them covered, which delighted our dear guest's sister. It's not every day that one has the chance to speak with one of the three mares that birthed a nation," Luna casually replied.

"Royal Court?"

"That one I'm particularly proud of," Blueblood chuckled a little "It wasn't easy, but in the end, I managed to broker a deal with Princess Platinum so she would cover for you today."

"Really? And what was the deal?" Celestia asked intrigued

"Sorry, can't say, she wants to be a surprise" Blueblood shook his head and lifted a hoof. "But don't worry, it's nothing bad or weird. Let's just say I'm not the only one that still owes a promise to royalty." That was all Blueblood said, which only piqued Celestia's curiosity, but she ultimately decided to let it go. She wasn't about to question the opportunity of a day off when it presented itself and even less if it involved spending it with her nephew. Whatever deal he made with her aunt Platinum would have to be a future Blueblood problem. Before she could ask anything else, Blueblood spoke again and started searching for something in his saddlebag.

"I also thought of a way for us not to draw too much attention. I wasn't sure if you would be ok with it, but after talking about it for a bit with aunt Luna, she told me that you had done this kind of thing before."

Finding what he was looking for, he took out two changeling pendants and showed them to her. "She told me how you used to sneak out of the castle to fool around in the town as Sunshine Smiles, so I figured that we could use your persona in addition to adding a son to her story as the perfect disguise to pass off as an ordinary mother and child" He then looked away.

"And it will let me have wings for the day at the same time." He whispered, and half mumbled, faking innocence, as he avoided eye contact with her.

"What was that last part, dear?" The princess questioned, not sure if she understood what he said correctly.

"Well, I mean, it would only make sense. If you are a pegasus and my mom, I'm supposed to be one too, right?"

"Oh, sweetie, there is no need to go that far. Lots of pegasus mares have unicorn colts," Celestia replied, dismissing his reasoning.

"But I want to have them" Blueblood looked down, dejected. "I want to know what it's like to have wings."

"Oh, Blueblood, I understand that you want to know what it's like to fly," Celestia mentioned while spreading her wings for emphasis. "But just like a horn, the ability of flight takes more than just the simple flapping of wings. You require training, effort, and grace. Qualities that can't be learned overnight, and just covering one lesson will take you a whole day. Would you want to spend our entire day doing just that?"

"No, I suppose not." He replied, still feeling down for not being able to fly.

"I think you are jumping to conclusions a tad too quickly, dear sister," Luna interjected, gaining their attention. "Our nephew has proven to, again and again, to be a master of quick learning, particularly in the fields of magic, etiquette, and swordsmanship, the latter I can attest to personally." She listed off, placing her left hoof on her chest. "I say you should grant his wish, Tia. Let him experience what it is like to touch the skies." She said with a calm smile, perking up the prince's ears as he looked at her and then to Celestia in excitement and anticipation.

Celestia sighed before looking at her sister, "Be that as it may, it's still too risky, Luna, my answer is no, and that is final. Now come on, sweetie, let me see that pendant." Celestia looked at Blueblood and captured one of the objects in her magic before levitating it to her.

Luna shrugged. "Suit yourself. I just thought you would have liked to experience an event every mother dreams to have when having a child."

The second she said that Celestia froze as her own ears perked up and left the talisman floating in mid-air as she slowly turned to face her. "Come again?"

Her sister only smirked, knowing that she had Celestia's attention as she casually conjured a piece of paper for her to see that read Mommy and me, a free flying lesson at Cumulus plaza, Cloudsdale. Help your colt/filly explore the sky while bonding together. We wait for you mommies. To all interested, please fill in your information on the back of this pamphlet. Turning the document, Celestia saw a straightforward form to fill in with generic questions, who to contact if assistance is needed, names, any illness or conditions that needed to be declared, how long would you take the class, what time, the works.

"Just as our nephew said, we talked about adding a foal into Sunshines backstory, but we never discussed how young said child is."

"And Pudding Head and Flicker have been teaching me about meditation techniques, and I have been practicing auntie, I have more control while being a colt now," Blueblood confirmed with confidence, feeding more into Celestia's interest.

"Indeed, since the chance of teaching magic had to wait until his adulthood, I thought you might like to try your hoof at a different kind of lesson with him as a child, one that you would treasure deeply, sister."

Luna stood up and grasped the pamphlet in her magic. "But if you don't want to, that is ok. They also have nighttime lessons. I won't mind taking him myself if you don't like the idea." Luna began to slowly withdraw the pamphlet when suddenly Celestia yanked it back and glared at her sister. "Ok, I get it, you made your point." She exclaimed, holding the pamphlet like it was a national treasure. "Perhaps I was rash in my decision. I mean, it's not like we are going to be pushing him off a cliff right off the bat, right?"

"But of course! That would be madness." Luna agreed with a nod.

"And Blueblood has yet to see Cloudsdale, who has plenty of cloud heads for us to venture out and walk around on without raising suspicion."

"My thoughts exactly," Luna repeated her agreement with this course of action. "Plus, to reach there, he would be clinging to you back the whole way." She added with a smirk, as she could see her sister's eyes dilate in realization for a brief moment before regaining control.

"But of course, that would be only logical" Celestia nodded and then turned to Blueblood.

"So that means I can be a pegasus!?" He asked expectantly as she smiled and nodded. "It sounds like an entertaining experience and will allow me the chance to show you more of our beautiful nation!"

"Yes!" Thank you, thank you, thank you, auntie!" He chanted while hugging her leg, barely containing his excitement, "You are the kindest auntie, ever."

"Aw, aren't you the sweetest?" Celestia patted his head before turning towards her bathroom. "Now give me a moment to clean myself, and then we will be off, dear. There is a whole mother/son day ahead of us, and I don't want to miss a single second of it!" She exclaimed, equally excited at the idea. It wasn't until she closed the door that Luna addressed the prince once more.

"And that is how the equestrians play the power game among rulers. Did you get all that nephew?" she asked in a professional tone as he nodded. "Let us review in that case. When working on an agreement…"

"…arguments are the kiss of death. You wish for a deal, not a declaration of war." Blueblood completed.

"Very good, and to sway your targets…"

"…always trick them into believing that they are in control; their pride and ego are your weapons, blind them with them. Stroke one or both, and if possible, make them believe that your idea becomes theirs or secretly works for them better."

"Excellent, always remember: only dictators and idiots focus on themselves and their comfortable luxury life, a true ruler focuses on everyone's well being. You are not there to conquer or dominate. When entering the game, you are always seeking a peaceful solution. War only bleeds countries, and tension is an infection that must be avoided, purged, or otherwise removed. Never be blinded by anger and never underestimate your opponent."

"I will remember it. Auntie, thank you. With this, now I understand how I should face those rulers." Blueblood said mostly to himself while looking at his hoof in determination before looking at her again. "Also, about the thing about being the kindest auntie…"

"…say no more," Luna stopped him. "Unlike my sister, I don't require all that much in the way of praise. Do not worry. I don't feel offended whatsoever." She dismissed his concern with a shake of her head.

"Is not that well…it's part of that too, but I thought I should clarify something."

"Oh? And what is that?"

Rather than answer, Blueblood decided to go to her and gave her a hug using his neck, much to her surprise. "Aunt Celestia might be the kindest aunt, but you are the coolest!"

"Oh…ah, well thank you, nephew, that is kind of you to say." She tells expertly, hiding how inside his words touched her and returned the gesture as the hug lingered on. Once over, Blueblood closed his eyes and smiled, "And so far, you are also the most badass of the two, with how incredible you are with the sword."

"I appreciate the praise, dear" She also smiled back and patted his head, "And it was a nice attempt. Others might have fallen for it, but not me. You are not going to skip ahead in your lessons," She casually replied, cutting straight to what he wanted.

"Aw, come on!" Blueblood let go of his act. "I'm ready, auntie. Why don't we practice the advanced moves? Please, I want to know how to parry like you do!"

She only laughed at his antics. "Tia was right. You are adorable when you pout. Patience, nephew, we will get there in time. For now, have fun. Today is going to be very special for you."

Right on cue, Celestia exited the bathroom, drying herself with her towel and applying some sunlight on the fabric to speed up the process before leaving it hanging on a rack nearby. "Ok, all done. Are you ready, sweetie?" Celestia asked, eager to begin.

"More than ever!" Blueblood put his pendant on and was about to start transforming when Celestia stopped him.

"Good, but before we put on our disguises, allow me to assist you with yours. Rather than just reverting your age, you are changing into a completely different tribe. It's more complicated, and you need more finesse." She put on her pendant and pressed her hoof against Blueblood. "Now, just close your eyes, and clear your head."

"Ok, auntie, don't give me small wings. I want to feel the wind beneath them!" He said in excitement as he closed his eyes

Celestia chuckled and nodded, "I will see what I can do" She closed her eyes as well. Soon both pendants came to life as Celestia use her magic to aid in both of their transformations, enveloping them both in a sphere of white and golden light for a brief second before it vanished, revealing a new pair of ponies.

For Celestia, her body shrank considerably until she was the standard pegasus height. A light yellow tone replaced her pearl white fur. Her wings were slightly larger than those of the average pegasus. Her cutie mark was replaced with that of the sun sporting a pair of sunglasses on it. Her eyes remained the same, and her horn was nowhere to be seen. Her majestic, wavy, and long multicolored mane and tail were now replaced by a regular light orange one, which curiously had ponytails in both. Her tail was combed and well-groomed while her main was slightly messy and spiked, two locks of her mane were tinted blue.





For his part, Blueblood had regressed once more into the body of a colt. A pegasus colt this time from the pair of wings that he now sported. Which, per his request, were indeed slightly more developed than the average. He shared the same color pattern of fur as Celestia, probably to add evidence of them being related. His cutie mark had shrunk slightly and now had two clouds in front of it. His mane and tail were now an ocean blue and grown a bit longer. Most noticeably of all, just like Celestia, his horn was nowhere to been seen.

"Did it work?" The prince questioned only to stop when he heard his voice having a higher pitch to it, and when checking himself in the mirror, he was able to see the result for himself, "It worked! I'm a pegasus!"

"Indeed you are," Celestia approached him with a big grin. "You are an adorable little pegasus ready to fly" She baby talked to him, not realizing the mistake she just made.

"That is right! I have wings now! I can fly! I can whoa…" In his excitement, he start flapping his wings rapidly, which instantly launched him into the air, where he promptly lost control and start to spiral out of control everywhere.

"Calm down, dear, stop…Blueblood stop flapping your wings…no wait, raise your head, no, not that high, just stay still, dear!" Celestia tried to control the situation only to end up bouncing from one place to another, making a mess as Luna enjoyed the show with gusto. Oh, it was even better than I could have imagined.

After having a good laugh and calming herself, she decided that she had gotten enough and used her horn to freeze Blueblood in mid-air before slowly putting him down where a panting Celestia was glaring at her. "You couldn't do that from the beginning?"

"And deprive you of the greatest joys of being a mother?" Luna gasped in faux shock as she put her hoof on her chest for emphasis

Relaxing, Celestia recovered her breath and smiled at her. "You knew this was gonna a happen, didn't you?"

Dropping the act, Luna smiled back. "The very second Blueblood told me the idea."

She sighed and chuckled while shaking her head. "Oh Luna, I swear I'm gonna a get you back, but for now, nothing can drop my mood." She returned her attention to Blueblood. "See what I meant, dear? Flying is not an easy thing either. You need focus and a clear head if you ever want to learn. Do you think you have what it takes?"

Blueblood nodded in determination. "Completely, you have my full attention."

"Good. In that case," She turned to her side and sat down, lowering her wings. "Climb up and hold tight, dear. There is a long flight ahead of us."

He did as instructed, and once secure, Celestia stood up and looked at Luna. "We'll be back by the time I need to lower the sun."

"Bye, auntie; see you later."

"Go have fun, you two" Luna waved goodbye at the two as Celestia went into a little spring to gain momentum before extending her wings and taking to the air at a decent speed.

Once gone, Luna turned around and prepared for the day ahead of her, nodding a couple of times. I let my sister and nephew have a day off to have fun. Indeed, I AM the coolest aunt. She reaffirmed to herself before exiting the room.
> A City Of Clouds (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After a long flight in which the princesses exploited the chance to let loose and fly as fast as she could without risking her passenger falling off, both royals reach their destination as Cloundsdale appeared on the horizon, and Blueblood couldn't do anything else but to gasp at the sight in front of him. A collection of clouds rising even higher into the sky, forming an imposing mountain with rivers of rainbow and water streaming to the ground down below. Houses and columns with Greek architecture were spread everywhere as Pegasus flew around, and stairs and statues that he would have confused for pure marble were instead more clouds.

Mount…Olympus, wait, no! Focus! It's not that. It's a different world, is not some mythological place; it merely looks like… The prince shook his head but then had to take a double-take to admire everything …like an interpretation of the Greek pantheon. For Pete's sake, they have an ACTUAL Mountain made of clouds over there!… And I'm heading straight to it as a pegasus!

Celestia didn't need to see him to know how he had his mouth agape at the sight in front of them, and rather than comment, she waited for the inevitable. It wasn't long until she heard him choking and coughing violently for a second. The prince just ate a bug. A small thing to remember and keep in mind, and she let loose a tiny chuckle.

"Beautiful, isn't it? No matter how many times I visit, I always end up awed by the beauty that is Cloudsdale," Celestia mentioned as more pegasi are seen headed toward what appeared to be a landing zone. Two of these fliers fell in beside them and guided them into a target for touchdown. The princess was soon getting in line and waiting their turn as well.

"Is…Is that an actual mountain au…ah mom?" Blueblood asked, pointing towards the structure in the distance.

"It looks like it, doesn't it? But no, it's a cloud-shaped mountain. but it is an exceptional one because, from it, the foundation of Cloudsdale and all of it structures were made"

So that is what Pinkie meant when she said Dash lived on a cloud. The prince pondered, looking to see that indeed in various cloud formations were houses with pegasi flying in or out, and there were even gardens in some of them.

"What makes it so special, mom?"

"I could tell you, but it's a long story, and that is not the reason we are here. For now, think of it as the primary material for construction here. You can get down now, by the way," She replied with a smile and turned to look at him, so the prince could notice that she not only stopped flapping her wings but had also sat down and lowered her wings so he could climb off.

He looks to the side but can't see any form of landmass and just more clouds around, which for some reason hadn't swallowed them as Celestia seems to be capable of walking on it without a problem. He looked back at her with fear as she pointed down again. "Come on. There is nothing to be afraid of, trust me. You will be fine."

The prince stood up and, with tentative steps, put a hoof on the cloud next to him. He was surprised how his hoof hadn't passed through, and instead, it felt like soft, elastic ground, Like a taut trampoline that didn't allow for much in terms of bounciness but left enough leverage to stand up.

"The clouds are…solid? But how?" He asked her, perplexed as she chuckled and stood up once more.

"Pegasi can stand and mold clouds as they please, dear. It's part of their magic, see?" She pointed at a nearby construction site where a group of workers were carrying big chunks of square clouds into the half-built building where another group took them and used their wings to mold the blocks to construct walls, floors, pillars, and even gargoyles before soaking them with water making them resemble solid marble. "Of course, not all clouds work the same. Those, in particular, are a special brand of cloud extracted from the mountain that hardens when brought into contact with water while retaining their ability to remain in the sky."

She tells with gusto, enjoying the attention Blueblood was giving her before poking the cloud beneath him with the eyes of a child. She wasn't sure if that was the pendant's effect or the simple joy of discovering something new and fantastic.

I can't believe it, I'm seriously at a loss of words here? Can you build a house made of clouds? Does that mean that all clouds that look like something are failed attempts at making a statue? God, will this world ever stop surprising me? His thoughts soon were interrupted by a light tap on his head, and looking up, he saw Celestia pointing into the distance with her head.

"Come on, dear, there is still plenty more to see, and we don't want to be late for your flying lesson, right?" She asked rhetorically as she started to walk while filling in the pamphlet,

"Coming!" the prince soon joined her, his wings twitching, revealing the ever-increasing excitement he felt as they headed towards their destination. The princess had to block a couple of more accidental lift-offs as a result.

Soon the two started to see more moms and their children heading the same way they were going. Before he realized it, they finally reached their destination and once more, the prince was left speechless at the image alone, a prestigious and well-kept park with actual vegetation spread out as far as the eye could see, suspended somehow on top of the clouds. Giant, bulky trees with an unusual inverted half-sphere acted as a home for a multitude of birds and in the middle of such spectacle were marble rows, fountains, chairs, gazebos, and even a playground for children to play on without a care in the world. Indeed the closest the prince could compare the place to was Central Park, and even that seemed to be a colossal understatement compared with the beautiful fusion of flora and fantasy in front of him.

So profound was the fascination he was experiencing  that it took him a full minute to recover and notice that they were currently in line to enter the class. A series of pegasi with orange security vests and flying goggles were retrieving the inscribed pamphlets from the mothers and their eager children, causing the prince to realize one small detail that he had forgotten. "We forgot a name, au…mom! We forgot to think of a name for me!" Blueblood harshly whispered to the disguised Celestia in alarm.

"Don't worry, dear. I have that covered" She gave him a wink before handing over the pamphlet to one of the officials, a slightly bulkier pegasus stallion with brown fur and a black mane that had a setting sun overlapped by a feather for a cutie mark. "Good morning, miss…Smiles, is this your first time coming to this class?" He asked while checking that all the information was in order.

"Indeed it is, we are new in town, and we are not staying for too long, so when I saw your pamphlet, I just knew this would be the perfect opportunity to show my sweet Blue Yonder* the wonders of his roots and start his flying lessons at the same time." The princess replied with a proud smile.

Blue Yonder? Well, it keeps with the theme of blue, and considering my mark could be regarded as a compass or a guiding star…yeah, I could see the logic there. Blueblood pondered the name and why it was chosen in the first place.

"That explains why I didn't recognize your face before." The official smiled and nodded as he put the pamphlet away and gave them a list of activities. "In that case, allow me to be the first in welcoming you to Cloudsdale and explain a bit of this class. As you can see, we have several activities today. Not only for first-time flyers but also for experienced colts and fillies and even tips and lessons on how to improve your flight, you can take one or several and even leave and come back if you wish, we will be here all day. Now since this is your first time, may I suggest starting with the glider? It's perfect for beginners, and you are in luck, the next class will start in 10 minutes. Head straight to the center of the plaza behind me until you see the giant slingshot there. My partner there will explain how to start, and if you have any other questions, look for anypony with an orange vest."

"We will keep it in mind. Thanks for the help, kind sir. Let's go, dear. Our lesson will start soon."

"Have a good day, you two!" The officer called out before resuming his job while Blue waved goodbye and rush to his aunt's side. "That was incredible auntie, did you think of all that just now?"

"This isn't my first time thinking up a backstory, sweetie. I can't act, my flank! I want to see Luna improvise something on the spot." Celestia whispered in pride before her eyes widened in realization, and a sly smirk crawled onto her face. "Indeed, I will love to see that happening."

"Mom?" Blueblood called for her, slightly worried by the face she was making, but she merely shook her head and returned to normal.

"Don't worry about that, sweetie, a subject for the future, for now, isn't this great? Technically this is still a lesson, but this place looks more akin to a fair. There is plenty we can do. We can even explore the town a bit more and come back to do some activities until the end of the day. Oh! They have mommy and me extreme ziplines?! We have to take that one" Celestia kept reading through the list of activities, getting more excited by the second as she mentally planned for the day, until they finally reached their destination as in the distance on top of a small hill just as the officer said, was a giant slingshot surrounded by a series of pegasus mares and their children. Some of them having to be watchful in order to prevent lift-offs from excitement alone.

"Ok, everypony, hold your horses. You will have a turn very soon," A giggling mare informed the crowd, approaching the group and making every colt and filly present let out a happy cheer once they saw her. Blue was left surprised to find her here of all places. Flying in front of the group was none other than Spitfire herself. wearing a pair of sunglasses, another orange vest, and carrying a clipboard in one of her hoofs. "I know you are all very excited to test these beauties. I sure as Heck was when I was your age." She confided in pride, landing next to the contraption in question and giving it a light tap. "But we don't want any accidents here, so first we are gonna have a brief explanation on how this works and do a quick check to see the level you will be placed on."

Spitfire's speech was met with a collective groan from all the kids as she chuckled again, "Hey, cut me some slack. It will only take me like 10 minutes, and this beats homework any day, am I right?" She chirped, raising their joy once more as everyone voiced their agreement simply nodded at the statement.

"That is what I thought. So ok, let's start with the introductions. For those of you who don't know me, I'm Spitfire, captain of the best flying team in Equestria called the wonderbolts, and today I'm your guide in an introduction to flight." She paced back and forth professionally. "I'm sure everypony here already knows that in order to fly, it requires more than flapping your wings, am I right, moms? Yeah? ha, this mare knows it." Spitfire joked, earning a chuckle from the mom's present while pointing at Celestia out of all the ponies, who nodded a couple of times.

"The very first thing you need to learn is control and stability, and that is where the nest pusher comes in handy." She smirked before pointing behind her. Everyone saw four cloud heads stacked like a ladder with different slingshots strategically placed and four more Pegasi with security vests waved at the group. they could also see a reasonably big cloud with a target etched on it with a series of small flags. "This is how it's going to work. There are five types of wings sizes: sparrow, pigeon, falcon, eagle, and albatross. Depending on your size, achieving what we are looking for will require more or less force, which is why all of you will be assigned to your level once it's determined." She then clarified her point by showing how her slingshot's base had a big sticker with an albatross's image on it. "Once that's out of the way, my partners and I will put you in the slingshots and aim for that cloud where your moms will be waiting with their hooves outstretched. All you have to do, is stretch your wings and slowly glide down, let them acclimate to you, don't force anything, and enjoy the ride" She demonstrated flying up and then keeping her wings stretch as she glided down with grace and even did a couple of flips in mid-air before touching down.

"Heck, have fun while you are it. Spin around, zig-zag a bit, do a barrel roll if you want. Fair warning, it not as easy as it looks. The only rule is don't flap your wings." She repeats in a severe tone. "This is about control and stability, but it also about focus, so just let things flow naturally without any fear, and don't be a jerk either, respect the airspace of your classmates."

The kids, upon hearing the explanation, had mixed reactions. Some were eager to start, while others who had tiny wings started to look unsure, something that Spitfire quickly took notice of, and she promptly gave them a sympathetic smile. "Hey, don't feel so bad. It doesn't matter if your wings are very large or short. Any pegasus can fly with no problem if they practice. Having small wings means tighter turns, and you could achieve real speed in no time."

That seemed to do the trick as they all soon looked at her in wonder as she smirked and started digging for something on her vest. "Want some proof? Meet Bulk Biceps," She announced, showing a photograph of an incredible bulky stallion with the tiniest wings the Prince had ever seen, whooping out loud as it appeared that he won first place in a race.

Ok, that picture must be fake. There are no way wings that small could lift that kind of monster. The Prince had to rub his eyes and look at the picture again to make sure he saw it correctly and found it hard to believe a stallion like that could ever exist.

"I have never seen a stallion with wings that size, and yet he not only proved to me that he could be fast; he almost got a place on the wonderbolts." All the kids awed at that revelation.

"Then why didn't he enter, miss?" A colt raised his hoof in wonder. "He wasn't fast enough?"

"The opposite, the stallion was a rookie for sure, and his control needed refinement, but he had heart and was an ace in the sky. If he had stuck around a bit more, I'm sure he could have made the uniform proud, but in the end, he decided to quit because of personal reasons. To each their own, and he is doing fine from what I hear. The moral of the story is that if he can do that, so can you." She cheered, bringing everyone's spirits up once more.

Wow, she is terrific at motivating kids.

"Now, who is ready to glide?!"

"ME!" They all responded in excitement.

"That is more like it! Let get this party going!" She cheered enthusiastically as she guided the group toward a pole with measuring tapes and began to write down names and divide everyone into their designated group.

"I have to admit, she's is good with kids." Blueblood nodded, impressed by Spitfire's antics.

"It all in using the right words and having the right attitude. A good leader knows how to keep the morale of their teammates up, and Spitfire is a shining example of that." Celestia remarked, "Most of the time." she finished remembering some less than glamorous moments with the captain itself.

"Have to say, I didn't know the Wonderbolts were hosting this event."

"It's more common than you think, and not only the Wonderbolts, royal guards, both active and retired, often volunteer for activities like this all the time, from their respective tribes. Often, they even are the ones that organize, petition, go through the proper channels and reserve the area and equipment necessary themselves."

"Wait, so the crown is sponsoring this?" Blueblood queried, impressed as he looked around at all the equipment and hired staff. They must have in order to make this all possible. His suspicions were confirmed when Celestia nodded with a smile.

"This is a perfect way to preserve old traditions within the tribes, forming unity and friendship. Teaching their kids the same lessons they learned in their younger years and even allowing mares and stallions in the force to spend time with their family and be a part of their foals childhood."

"That…that is very nice for them and a clever way to preserve traditions while having fun."

"And today, we get to enjoy it as well." She says with a big smile, "A brand new experience in more than a thousand years! I…I have to experience teaching my colt how to fly! Let go, dear! I want to start already!" She informed him, getting more excited by the second as they trotted toward the rest of the group.

The Prince chuckled as he looked in front of him. Now that I think about it, the last time I saw Spitfire was the night I went into exile. I wonder how she's been doing since then?
> Lock Memory (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Suppressing a yawn, Luna took a moment to rub her eyes before continuing to work on some paperwork when all of a sudden, a sensation of vertigo struck her out of the blue, making everything spin and nearly causing her to stumble backward from the lack of balance. Recovering control, she held her head in pain and shook it, trying to settle down and wait for the dizziness to fade away. Moments later, a knock on the door grabbed her attention, and with a confused gaze, she looked up only to hear the voice of Princess Platinum on the other side.

"Luna, please open up," the princess called out in a rather demanding tone, much to her confusion. "You just felt lightheaded, didn't you?" Luna's eyes widened in surprise at Platinum's assertion. "I know what is happening. Please let me in."

Standing up and using her magic, Luna opened the door and lets the unicorn in question inside, "How did you know that I…?"

Luna started to question, but she was quickly answered before she could finish asking. "Your thousand-year absence has diminished the effect of the curse. That is why the barrier is cracking faster on you." Platinum explained in a hurry as she checked the room before closing and locking windows before pulling on the curtains and closing the door, making sure no one was watching or listening.

"Curse?!" Luna bellowed in alarm. "Auntie, what is happening? What are you…are you…" Luna tried to process things when suddenly she felt another rush of vertigo, this one even stronger. It was all that the Lunar princess could do to keep standing, and even then, she would have failed if not for the unicorn princess's quick intervention, as she rush to her side and hold her in place while hugging her frame. "Deep breaths, sweetie, just let it ride its course." Platinum whispered in her ear while massaging her neck, trying to calm Luna down.

Her actions had a soothing effect as Luna slowly started to feel better and closed her eyes only to be bombarded by a rapid succession of memories, memories were unfamiliar and that she didn't have any recollection of before. "What…is happening?"

"Don't fight it! Let them settle in!" Platinum instructed, "Those are locked memories Luna, YOUR memories. They are simply coming back."

Fear began to creep into Luna's heart, but Platinum's presence and her voice kept Luna in control, and deciding to follow her instructions, rode the waves of memory until they started to make sense. They stopped on one particular one as she suddenly saw a crib with a baby unicorn filly with a light pink mane and yellow fur sucking on her left front hoof in front of her. A younger Celestia stood next to her, and they were looking at the baby with equal parts care and wonder as she draped a blanket on top of the child as she exhales a yawn and closes her eyes.

"She is so tiny. Can I hold her?" Luna started to speak out instinct with a voice not her own but of a younger self, as another voice, one that she doesn't recognize but sounded familiar, spoke to her.

"Sorry, Lulu, but Festivia needs her rest," The female voice stated with a warm maternal voice. Yet, all Luna could see looking up was the silhouette of an alicorn mare silhouetted by a golden light behind her. "Thanks for reading her a bedtime story, sister."

"Sister?!" Luna repeated to herself. Soon, she found herself back in her own room. Luna backed away from Platinum, who looked at her emotionlessly before closing her eyes and, using her magic, levitated a glass of water in front of her. "Drink some water. It will help your nerves."

"In the name of all my stars, what in Equestria was…?!" Platinum shoved the water glass into her face to interrupt her. "Water now, answers later, now drink and take a long deep breath." Platinum instructed.

Platinum nodded once Luna did as instructed and took big gulps in an attempt to calm her heart down and to recover her breath. The suggested actions seem to do the trick, and soon she regained some of her senses. Enough to regard her aunt more calmly once again.

"Feeling better?"

"I am now, thank you, but my question persists, dear aunt. What did I just experience?"

"A locked memory, one of many that a rather horrible curse has made us all forget until our deaths" Platinum replied in a sorrowful tone as she stared at the now empty glass in her magical grasp for a moment before her expression turned to one of rage. "The final gift of a monster set on…" Stopping herself, Plantinum took her own advice and breathed deeply with her eyes closed before looking at Luna again. "Tell me, Luna, do you know who Festiva is?"

"Yeah, I knew her. She is one of my many nieces and Blueblood's greatest grandmother. The very first niece, if I recall correctly."

"Indeed," Platinum nodded in agreement. "And before her?"

"Before her? Auntie, what are you talking about? Festiva was our very first niece. There wasn't anyone before."

"Is that so? Think for a moment, Lulu, think. Festiva wasn't yours or Celestia's filly, and yet she is of your bloodline. How is that possible? From where do you think she came?"

"Well, that is easy, from my sister, my…my sister? I…wait, no, that is not right, something doesn't add up, or rather is…filling up? Why can't I remember? I mean, it should be obvious, but…" Luna stopped and slowly looked at Platinum in surprise and fear as everything started to piece itself together. Her worries were confirmed as Platinum nodded in confirmation,"…a sister, I have a second sister?!"

"Ripped from history and the minds of everyone that ever knew her. Like she never existed in the first place, leaving only her legacy behind like bread crumbs to lead to a dead end. All thanks to a heartless monster that used a horrible curse that has prevented you or anyone else from remembering until this day."

"But…how? When?"

Platinum raised her hoof to stop Luna from ranting, "That is exactly why I'm here. As you have experienced, the process is not pleasant and needs to be eased into gradually. So before I tell you anything, I need to know how much do you remember?"

Meanwhile in Cloudsdale

"Wow, 20 inches, you belong in the Albatross class alright," Spitfire wrote the information down once she was finished measuring Blue Yonder wings. "You are gonna love the nest pusher, wings like those were made for gliding." She chuckled, ruffling his mane and sending him on his way.

"Ok, dear, remember, listen to what your instructors said, and don't get ahead of yourself. We're here to have fun, not go overboard while training." Sunshine instructed her child with a big grin on her face until she noticed how he kept looking back at Spitfire in confusion and worry.

"Blue, are you listening?"

"Hm? Oh yeah, I heard you. Sorry, I got distracted there for a second." Blue apologized, looking back at her.

"What is the matter, honey?"

"Mom, do you think the captain is ok?" He asked her in worry while looking back. "I mean the trembling edges in her lips, the slightly off pigmentation in her cheeks, with not enough makeup to cover it up, the tired eyes, not to mention the slightly deflated mane. She is forcing her smile somehow."

"Wait, you can see them too?" Sunshine asked in surprise, not so much by what they indicated but that he managed to detect them as well. "Since when can you read facial expressions?"

"Aunt…ah Moonlight has been teaching me," Blue replied, coming up with a name on the spot. "She told me that the more I practice, the easier it will be to read them, and hers were pretty pronounced." He was quick to reply, "So you saw it too, right? That's great! it means I spotted them correctly, and now the two of us could approach her an…"

"…and do nothing," Sunshine interrupted with a stern gaze.

"What?"

"I will have a stern talk with Moon later, but right now, I need you to stop reading other ponies' faces and ignore what you just saw, this instant young colt!" She proclaimed with finality.

"But why?"

"Because what you are doing is beyond rude, you are getting involved in something extremely personal" She raised her head to make sure that no one was close or paying any attention to them before continuing in a whisper. "I understand how you feel, dear, but we can't micromanage our subjects. Unless the situation escalates enough that it requires our intervention, or it involves our family or the state, or they actively seek our help, our civic duty is to respect their privacy, and stay out of it."

"So we are just supposed to look the other way then?"

"That is exactly what we will do. It's her life, and she has the right to live and resolve her issues as she sees fit. Besides this day isn't about our subject. It's about having a mother/son day for just the two of us. That means no royal duties, no adventures, no shenanigans, and keeping a low profile, got it?"

Blue Yonder sighed in defeat and looked down. "I understand, auntie. I promise not to get involved."

She smiled at his understanding and raised his chin. "I know it's hard, sweetie. That golden heart of yours is compelling you to try and help. I was in your horseshoes when I was your age…" Celestia needed to pause for a moment when she realized what she just said and could not help but smile. I went through the same ordeal when I was his age…by my sun, he really IS just like me! Awwwww! he is follow in my hoofsteps…wait NO! Focus!

After shaking her head to recover her line of thought, Sunshine resumed, "…when I was your age, I too had this impulse to try and help everypony I came across no matter how little their problem was." She explained while they walked, "At first, I thought there wasn't anything wrong with it until an incident happened, and after a scowl from aunt Platinum, I learned that there are times where helping others can do more harm than good. Things in life need to be learned on your own, and helping others robs them of that opportunity and risks their lives later on or harms them in ways you didn't consider until it's too late. Just like a chick needs to break free of their egg, or a fish has to learn how to swim a waterfall…, or a colt needs to learn how to fly."

She ended up with a smirk pointing at a slingshot and reminded him why they were here in the first place. "Or do you prefer if we end things here and return home?"

"NO!" He replied in a panic, making her chuckle and pat his head, "That is what I imagined, now since we had this talk, I don't want to see any more readings, understood young colt."

"Yes, mom," Blue Yonder agreed, much to the confusion of nearby moms that looked at them after his little outburst.

"Good, now go and have fun" She gave him one last hug. Taking advantage of their situation, she whispered in his ear, "And to ease your worries, just remember, problems like those often resolve themselves. I promise she will be fine. You only need to pay attention as well."

That seemed to do the trick as his mood improved once more, and he nodded again with more enthusiasm. When their hug ended, Sunshine was guided toward the target cloud as the kids got in line to wait their turn to be launched.

Trust me, sweetie, helping too much can be the worst thing you could do. I should know. That was what claimed your life twice. Sunshine could not help but sniff and clear a tear from underneath her eyes.

"Are you ok?" asked another mom, who looked on in concern. She was a reasonably thin and tall mare with light pink fur and two white and yellow tones. Her tail and mane each combed and styled into ponytails. She had a compass with a gust of wind on the side as a cutie mark and was wearing a formal green shirt with its sleeves rolled up. Recovering her composure, Sunshine sniffed once more and cleared her eyes. "Y-yeah, I'm ok, thanks. I'm…a bit emotional at the moment. This is my first flying lesson with my little knight." She replied with a smile satisfying the mare as she nodded.

"I know exactly what you mean. Because of my job, I'm not home as much as I want and have to admit that there are days I fear I'm missing my little fillies childhood. Knowing that I can teach her how to fly puts my mind at ease and reminds me that I have a job as a mother, I need and intend to fulfill. Plus, it's better than just coming home and finding it half-destroyed by a flying bouncing ball, am I right?" She half-joked and rolled her eyes, to which Celestia joined in.

"The name is Mane Allgood, by the way. Nice to meet you."

"Sunshine Smiles, likewise," They greeted one another before looking down at the line of children, "So which one is yours?" Sunshine asked, intrigued.

At the dome of the castle of the two sisters

After the royal chariot touched down, both princess Luna and Platinum were quick to descend and approach the new ruins in front of them. "We must be quick. We can't stay here for very long," Platinum mentioned urgently as they approached the make-shift door left by the harmony dome.

"Stay at the ready. We will be back very soon," Luna ordered her guards, both saluted and fell into place beside the vehicle. Luna then approached her aunt. "Why do we need to be swift, aunt? Another repercussion of the curse?"

"Indeed, and there is still work left for us back at the castle, to which you are not going to skip young filly!" She ended pointing at Luna with a knowing smile and causing the princess to sigh in defeat

"And here I thought I could exploit this small tour."

Walking inside, Luna took a moment to admire the holed dome above them both, still standing proud and bathing the place in an arrangement of rainbow colors. "I still find it impressive how the dome remains. After the whole ordeal, I thought the tree of harmony would simply turn it into dust or something."

"There are mysteries yet to be discovered about the magic of harmony Lulu, we may never be able to unravel all of them, but we will always be able to count on them to guide us in the dark." Platinum smiled as they descended some stairs as the dome's light made it easier for the two to see where they were going. And once at the bottom, Luna had another episode. This one forcing her to hold her head as a Platinum rushed to her side and hugged her neck tightly once more. "I'm here sweetie, just let it come naturally."

"Auntie, there are so many. How did someone manage to take this away from us? Who was he?"

"I told you I couldn't force those memories to come back. The shock alone could shatter your mind completely. Best case, you  go insane and, in the worse case, you will be left comatose with no chance of recovery." She continues to massage Luna's neck, trying to calm her down for a solid minute before recovering control.

"How do you feel?"

"Tired, and I have a headache, but better," Luna replied, still holding her head before looking up and see her past self playing with a ball with Celestia and the mysterious sister. "It coming back. This is where we grew up, the three of us. After you took us in. I was just a filly of four. Tia was six or seven, and my sister. She was…older, I think."

"By ten years to be exact," Platinum corroborated as she approached a nearby ball, making Luna realize that parts of the castle seemed brand new like someone remodeled it but did a lousy job at it as everything seems to be mismatched.

"When we took you in, your sister was the oldest of you three, so she often ended up been the voice of reason when a certain mischievous princess went out of her way to play a prank on the staff or her dear beloved aunt." She mentioned with a smirk, making Luna blush.

"I was young and naive, auntie."

"As well as a prankster and a thrill-seeker." Platinum approached a nearby rail where Luna watched herself slide down while being chased by a panicked Platinum, just before being caught by her sister.

"I lost count on how many times you scared me or the staff half to death with all your little trills, and yet, all of us loved you all like you were our own flesh and blood. Maybe we are not connected by blood..."

Turning back, she wiped a tear as she smiles at Luna. "But not a day goes by where I'm not proud of the magnificent and dashing young mares my fillies have become."

Luna's eyes started to water at her words as she approached her "Auntie."

Clearing her throat and eyes, Platinum resumed, "A-Anyway back to what we came for, I might not be able to tell you much yet, but I can tell you this. Growing up, as to be expected, each of you started to gain a certain trait to emulate. You, of course, start to get closer to Hurricane with how much you liked the idea of fighting and weapons."

"It's more than that, auntie."

"Oh, believe me, I know. Hurricane never shut up about it," Platinum retorted with a roll of her eyes. "And well, Tia was more incline towards Pudding with her out the box thinking and ability to improvise and thrive in the most dire of situations." They resumed their walk, and Luna noticed more and more architecture that she didn't recognize until they eventually reached an unusual monument. There were statues of Celestia and Luna as little fillies looking left and right while lifting the sun and moon. Still, there were four hooves of a pony looking forwards in the center and a dark cloud of nothingness cutting off the rest of it, not in a literal cut but more akin to shadow covering the rest. No doubt part of the curse still present, preventing her from distinguishing her sister.

"And finally, your sister and I came particularly close as time went on and with it, her interest in the fine art of etiquette, nobility, and how to run a kingdom. For how things had developed, I say that of the tree. You are the sharpest and bravest. Tia is the smartest and kindest and your sister, well she was the wisest and most sociable of you tree. All of you would have ruled Equestria magnificently if only that monster hadn't appeared."

"This structure is the castle reshaping itself, auntie?"

Platinum merely nodded at that. "The reason part of this place looks brand new is that it wasn't here before. The curse's effects removed every nonliving element that might have a connection with your sister, including changing or erasing pieces of the castle and history books attached to her. But now with that dome outside, and the curse starting to crack, piece by piece, everything is returning" She looked back at Luna.

"But until the curse is gone for good and the palace is restored to normal, no one can't enter this place. If they do and see this, the shock to their minds could be fatal."

Luna nodded in understanding. "And that is why we are here. More than just to remember, you need me to help weave the layers of shadows, and cast force fields, so no innocents enter before its time."

"You were always the best when it comes to security and protection spells, Lulu, a trait I wish more ponies had seen in the past." She remarked with a tinge of sorrow in her tone until Luna put her hoof over her shoulder. "The past is the past, auntie. Let us not dwell too much on it. Now let's go. There is a force field I need to erect."

They both nodded and left the floor before Luna cast various spells on the entrance to make it vanish from the naked eye, a force field strong enough that anyone that touched it would just think it was a wall, and to be sure, she summoned an extra layer of shadows that would fling back anyone that tried to enter. Overall, no one will be going near the room unless Luna wanted them to.

"There, that should do it" Luna cleaned some sweat from her brow as Platinum handed her over a towel. "You did well, Lulu, now there is nothing to worry about. Let's go back home."

Platinum started to advance, but Luna stopped her. "Auntie, before we go, there is one last question I had. Why now? What happened? I doubt a curse of this magnitude could be erased by the passage of time alone, so what caused it to start breaking."

Platinum only sighed and closed her eyes. "The curse is linked to the strings of destiny. It wrote that it exists as everything else passes because that is how everything is foretold. Only a descendant of your sister can undo it by doing the impossible and forging a brand new destiny after going beyond the end of it."

Luna's eyes widen in realization, "Blueblood! When we came back from the grave, the curse started to crack."

Her aunt nodded and looked at her. "Destiny and life are linked together. Life is like a pony crawling on the road, death is the risk at the end of it, and destiny is the road itself. His story was meant to end on that night, alone, ignored and with only a single soul to mourn his passing. A final lesson to repent all who push everyone away. For him to come back is like standing in mid-air after the road ended. The very second he woke up that day, his string was broken, and a new one dictated by himself started to be spun. Doing so caused this cracking, and that is an idea that destiny doesn't like. That why misfortune keeps haunting him in the form of tests, as it tries to correct the anomaly, before a new road finish taking form, that is why the curse is still there and just now is starting to crack instead of been gone once he was back and why those in charge observe and record each test to see if either he success or if his fate is seal and unavoidable."

"Those in charge?" Luna asked, confused.

"The mares that embody destiny itself and whose existence is known only by those they choose to reveal themselves to, the Fates."

At Cumulus plaza

Blue Yonder waited for his turn when a small filly with a white mane and a slightly darker fur bumped into him. He looked back and noticed how her excess mane covered her eyes. "Sorry, Blueblood."

"It ok, I…wait, what did you call me?"

The filly merely smirked in return. "Envy, the silent whisper that never left your ear. Sorry, it took me so long. I came earlier than I wanted."

"Hey kid, what are you looking at?" The instructor in front of him asked, catching his attention.

"Ah, this is…" Blue Yonder looked behind him again, but the filly was nowhere to be found. "…ah nothing," Blue answered, unsure of what was happening as he went to take his place. Unaware of the filly, watching him closely from a distance, let out a small chuckle, "This will be fun."
> Warning Vision (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Ok, kid, remember, don't stretch your wings right away, or you will be flung straight up, wait until you feel you are in a horizontal position; otherwise, you will end up spinning backward out of control. Keep your mouth shut to avoid insects and birds and finally keep your hooves stiff and close to your barrel to keep control of your movements at all times, got it?" The instructor listed off as he stuck a pair of goggles on Blue Yonder's head and then placed him in the slingshot before pulling him back.

"Got it!" repeated the colt with a smile before pulling the goggles over his eyes and looking straight up with determination.

"I will launch you into that cloud overhead of us, to help you time the moment you can open your wings. Once you clear out from it, look for the cloud beneath you with a giant red target on it, your mom will be there, aim for her and glide down, once you manage a straight route three times in a row, you are good and ready for the next lesson. So keep that in mind, and most importantly of all, have fun!" He finished with a smile before smirking. "Ready, champ?"

"Ready!"

"Then here…you…GO!" Yelling the last part, the instructor let go of Blue Yonder, and the instant he does, the young pegasus flew straight up into the air with enough force to make him dizzy for a moment as he kept repeating all that had been instructed to him in his mind to make sure he got them right.

Legs to barrel, wait for the moment, mouth shut, just wait for it, wait for it… He kept chanting as he went through the cloud like an arrow, and there was nothing but mist in front of him as he kept ascending more and more until he started to see a light at the end of the metaphorical tunnel. Almost there and…!

The prince was about to open his wings the second he exited the cloud when suddenly the view in front of him made him pause and forget anything he had on his mind …it, so beautiful.

Bathed in the morning sunlight, the reflection of streams of water in the rivers in the park, and the imposing trees made a magnificent contrast of colors with clouds that looked like they were made of gold being conquered by the green of the threes melding harmoniously with cumulus as some of the tops of the trees were lost in other clouds, or making them look like they were literally a cloud tree, seemly fading into the sky. In contrast, others were spread worldwide, even floating on small island clouds were benches, and jungle gyms were the perfect spot for parents to watch their kids play. All around him, kids were flying around, filling the air with their laughter and giggles as their eager mothers waited for them on a vast marked cloud as some daring birds passed near and even played with them as they glided effortlessly everywhere. Whoever was the landscaper in charge of this park was undoubtedly the greatest of his profession as such a magnificent view had once more entranced the prince.

"BLUE, THE WINGS!" A sudden yell from a nearby filly snapped him back to his situation and reminded him what he needed to do just before plummeting to the ground. Once his wings were spread, a rush of wind carried him upwards with enough force to make him tumble a little before he recovered a modicum of control. He then managed to stay balanced and to see the filly in question sighing in relief as she keeps flying backward in front of him. "That was close. I know the place is pretty, but you need to stay focused, Blueblood."

"Thanks," he said, slightly embarrassed for forgetting something so obvious "Also, I know is you Fortune. You can leave the small filly act."

"Fortune? No silly" The filly shook her head with a smile. "You are talking about my other one. I'm Vision! Eager speaker of everything that will!" she replied enthusiastically before spin to her left to be right side up again, approaching his side and whispered into his ear, "Free tip, Spitfires herd will confront her pretty soon" She then shhed as if to ask him to stay quiet before casually flying around him.

"Her herd? She has a...?" He shook his head to stay on track. "What do you mean by 'other you'? There's more than one Fortune?" Yonder asked the filly in confusion as she gets close and bopped his nose with her wing. "Someone didn't do his research~" She sang-songy before flying away. "And yes...and no about that question. And don't bother asking, if you are not going to look it up, I will not tell you," She blamed, toying with him.

"O...k?" Blueblood finally responded, understanding he will not be getting anything else out of her.

Well, it looks like I will have to add 'search for weird ghost pony things' to the to-do list' He mentally groaned before addressing the filly once more. "So Vision, right?"

She nodded eagerly

"Why exactly are you here, then?"

"Same as you! Just to let my mane lose and forget about everything for the day." She quickly answered, "You were right on the money, prince; we all could use a bit of a breather."

"Ok, then why come see me? Not to be rude or anything, but you are interrupting a day for just me and my aunt."

"Am I? Or I'm ensuring you have the best day ever," She countered with a smirk.

"Didn't you just say that you only wanted to let loose and do nothing for the day?"

"Yeah, but that doesn't mean I can't lend you a hoof too. Besides, after all that you've been through, I owe you that much." She mentioned with a hint of embarrassment. "Which is why you can't do it."

"Do what?"

"Ask the question, find out if your aunt can freeze time," She said with concern catching the prince off guard "…how did you?"

Before he could finish the sentence, she interrupted him and caught him off guard once again. She pulled up her mane and revealed not only a small growing horn on her forehead both also how both her eyes were glowing with intense white light. "'Everything. That. Will.' as in everything that will happen? Get it? I see what will happen, every single outcome."

"You…you can see into the future?" He asked, astonished as he noticed how the sounds were gone and everything around them had turned gray, while she nodded and covered her eyes too. "And only that, so that's why I close my eyes because in either case, I'm sort of, kind of blind at the moment." She half-joked, trying to lighten the mood, which unfortunately didn't seem to do the trick.

"Anyway, everything is cool. I'm happy with how things are, and if you want to be too, then you will NOT question her about that spell or what happened that day." she commanded, getting very serious and poking his chest. "I know how it ends, and it's not pretty. Trust me, there will be tears involved and not the good kind, and you will not be able to see her the same way ever again."

"But I…"

"Is that what you want?" She shouted in anger, "Please, prince, just think about it. Really think carefully about what you are risking here. Think where you two are currently. What you are to one another right now at this moment. I'm not going to tell you what you should or shouldn't be doing. I'm just warning you. There is no going back once you start down that path. Ask yourself, would it be worth it?"

The prince just remained quiet, no longer sure about what to do.

"Also, out of control Scoots at 10 o'clock." She said out of the Blue.

"Out of control, Scoots? What is that supposed to…?" Confused, the prince looked up and saw how color returned. Vision was nowhere to be seen as he looked around for her until his gaze landed on a small orange dot heading straight toward him at a blistering speed before said spot became a filly with orange fur and purple Mane and tail, currently spiraling out of control in a free fall. Out of instinct, he flapped his wing out of the way to avoid the filly projectile, only to find that his wing was caught by the screaming filly yanking him down with her and making him hiss in pain at the sensation he was receiving. Scootaloo was not only gripping onto his wing for dear life. Her hoof's frog somehow had gotten ahold of many of his primary feathers in the process and was threatening to rip them out by the roots. The sensation was horrible.

Flapping his free wing for all he could, Yonder was able to maintain an unstable pace into the air until giving up, as the sensation was unbearable, all he could think of right now was how what Scootaloo was doing was like a fusion of someone trying to rip out both his hair and nails simultaneously in one agonizingly slow yet brutally firm yank. Tears were starting to cloud his Vision as the screaming resumed, and before he realized it, both of them were plummeting through the air, alerting the other moms as the place was filling with screams.

"GRACE! WE HAVE TWO DIVERS!" The screaming voice of Spitfire alerted Blue once more as he opened his eyes to see a large shadow appeared over top of them, approaching at Mach speed before he closed his eyes again only to feel the pulling of the hoof that was causing him so much pain ceased, followed by him landing on a perfumed cushion of feathers as he moved sideways and started to circle gently until finally, he felt the ground beneath him once more as the bed of feathers move sideways and rolled them over before placing itself on top of them as what felt like a beak began to pluck at his injured wing gently.

Opening his eyes again, Blue was slightly startled as he saw a giant bird was indeed pecking at his wing before retreating and sitting on both him and Scootaloo as she kept trembling in fear.

"Blue!" A very frightened Sunshine rushed to their side alongside Spitfire and a couple more volunteers, as well as a tall pegasus mare who he supposed was Scootaloo's mother. Sunshine was about to go to his aid, but one of the volunteers stopped her advance and shook his head. "Please stay calm, ma'am, until we give him a quick check. It wouldn't be wise to move them too much." He instructed as she tried her best to remain calm and comply while Spitfire and another volunteer went and checked on the colt and filly.

Without saying anything, Spitfire whistled, and the bird on top of the two stepped back so she could inspect the injured wing with a critical eye top to bottom, going so far as to nudge some of the feathers as the prince flinched in discomfort but thankfully not like the pain as he experienced before. Turning to look at him, Spitfire spoke, "How is your wing champ? Think you could move it up and down for me?"

Nodding, Blue complied and moved it a couple of times, much to her relief. "Well, count your lucky stars, kid, because everything seems fine." She smiled and helped him stand up once more. "But just to be safe, rest that wing for an hour or so before trying again, ok? Better safe than sorry."

"Same for you, you might be fine, but that heart of yours is racing a mile a minute. Try to calm down before we try again." The other volunteer told Scoots as he does the same and let the mothers go to hug their children.

"Thank the stars, you're ok," Sunshine professed, hugging tight to Blue Yonder.

"Scootie, what happened back there? You were doing fine a moment ago. Did your wings get tired?" Mane Allgood ask Scoots, who looked down at the ground in shame. "Sorry, mom. I wanted to impress you, so I…tried to fly right away but lost control the second I started moving them."

"Oh, Scoots, that was very dangerous. You could have hurt yourself or others with that stunt."

She held back tears in shame. "I'm sorry."

With a sigh, Mane smile and pet the top of her head. "The important thing is that your alright, sweetie, just please don't try that again. I know you are eager to fly, but this is why you must take these lessons one step at a time, understand?"

She merely nodded at that. "Good, in that case, once we have calmed down, we will try again, correctly this time, but before that, you need to apologize to that poor colt, ok?"

Scootaloo continued to nod as Mane scooped her up and hugged her tightly, rocking back and forth to try calming her down.

"What is your name, champ?" Spitfire asked Blue

"Blue, Blue Yonder, miss."

"Well, Blue, I have to say that was an impressive reaction time you had back there." She complimented, impressed by the facts. "If you hadn't spotted that filly in time, she could have hit your wing right at the base." She comments, pointing at his wing and at how close Scoot was to grabbing at the joint, which was no more than five centimeters away. "Trust me. nopony would have walked away from a clean hit like that right at the juncture of bones right there, especially at the speed she was going. That move you pulled saved you both a pretty painful trip to the hospital."

"Really?" Blue eyes widened in realization.

So that is what Vision meant by ensuring the day will not be ruined.

A sudden beak at the side of the colt startled him as he turns to the side to take stock of the giant bird currently nuzzling his face. At first glance, it looked like an ordinary seagull except that her beak was light pink in color and was twice as large, her wings were also incredibly long to support such a humongous body that was easily double the size of even Princess Celestia, as well as being pitch black at the front, and white at the bottom, and her giant webbed feet had a light blue coloration to it. As the bird kept nuzzling him, Spitfire can't help but chuckle at the display. "Looks like Grace has taken a liking to you, champ."

"Such a well mannered and docile bird." Sunshine commented, petting the bird in question before addressing the wonderbolt. "Is she your pet, miss Spitfire?"

"Yep, Grace is my pet albatross, of the giant size subspecies to be exact, as well as the most graceful of her kind and greatest nanny you could ask for." She complimented as Grace moved to be behind Spitfire and extend her wings in a display. As if she was showing off. "This bird likes to view kids as her eggs." Spitfire joked while petting Grace, who cooed with contentment at the attention and reciprocated by pressing her head against Spitfires.

"I still say she just copied the traits of her owner." The raspy voice of Rainbow Dash caught everyone's attention. Looking to their left, they were surprised to see not only her but also a pegasus stallion with a light blue fur, a dark blue spikey mane and tail, green eyes, and a lightning bolt with wings as a cutie mark, and an older pony with the same colors and mane style as Spitfire with a strange half flame half twister hurricane as a cutie mark wearing a purple sweater and white pearl necklace, flying toward the group. "Sup Cap, surprised to see me?"

Rainbow Dash was smirking as they descended. Not to keep her eyes off Spitfire as she caught her captain off guard while the stallion and mare behind him seemed happy yet were showing signals of concern towards her as well.

"Rainbow!" Scootaloo gasped in happiness before rushing to her side and excitedly hugged her, an act that she soon reciprocated, "Hey squirt, I heard you entered some flying lessons? You should have told me. I would have come to cheer you on."

"Well yeah…sorry, it just that this was a mommy and me thing." Scoots replied sheepishly, pointing to her mother.

"Oh, I wouldn't mind Scoots," Allgood replied with a dismissive hoof. "She never gets tired of talking about how much she wants to one day be just like her hero."

"Mom!" Scoots cheeks got even redder at the comment making Rainbow chuckle again.

Grace chirps in happiness before moving to greet both Soarin and the older pony nuzzling her head against the two. Making the mare chuckle and pet her head, "I'm glad to see you too Gracey, Spitfire just bathed you didn't she? So glad that daughter of mine finally remembered to attend to you." She half-joke with a roll of her eyes, earning a light blush from Spitfire at the embarrassment; loudly getting everyone's attention, she approached the three new guests.

Wow, she is Spitfire's mother? Huh, well, it's not that surprising in retrospective considering how that mare is her spitting image! Blue Yonder thought in surprise.

"Weeeeeeell! This was an exciting surprise and all but might you tell me why you are all here? Because you're interrupting." Spitfire suddenly said with a forced smile as she addressed Rainbow. "We were kind of in a session here, soldier" She then got closer to her keeping her eyes closed.

"You brought my mother into this?!" She harshly whispers at Rainbow Dash reproachfully.

"You left me no choice, Spits." 

Rainbow whispered back, trying to make sure no one noticed the exchange, no one other than Blue Yonder, who looked at them with confusion before Sunshine gave him a light shove on his side and cleared her throat. He looked back at her and saw that she was shaking her head in no.

"Hey, Spits! Would you like for me to cover your shift for a moment while you deal with your family?" A coal black-furred stallion with a short, spikey gray Mane and tail and a twister as a cutie mark flew lower towards her with a raised eyebrow. "I don't mind; just lend us Grace, and we will be fine."

"NO!"
"Yes"

Spitfire and Soarin replied simultaneously, earning a glare from the latter as Spitfire pointed at him.

"Spits, please talk to us. We are worried about you. And no, you are in no way fine." Soarin pleaded in concern for his captain.

"Listen to me and listen well I told you I'm…"

"Hold it right there! That is no way to speak to your mate Spitfire!" Her mom intervened with a glare. "Now you will apologize, take a deep breath, and allow yourself a break right now, young filly!" She ordered, giving her a severe expression and leaving no room for argument.

"But mom!"

"Don't force me to bring out the baby album" That comment left the captain cold on her hooves before glaring at her. "You wouldn't dare."

In response, the mare smirked and started to pull a small blue album from her sweater, turning to look at Sunshine and Allgood. "Say, ladies, would you like to see my sweet baby when she was 3? This little trouble maker just loved to cover herself with her food." She said whimsically while reminiscing about the past.

"NO!" Spitfire shouted, her face red as a tomato. "It's cool, everypony, let's just calm down, no need to do anything rash. Soarin, I'm sorry I snapped at you." She quickly turned to her partner. "I will take you on that offer, Whirlwind. I will be back in an hour. Grace, keep an eye on the kids." She quickly instructed everyone before looking at the kids.

"Say you two, what would you say if my team and I give you some tips on how to fly better?" She looked at the two with a smile, making them both gasp.

"Wait, really?! Wow, miss, thank you."
"Yes, please!"

Scoots and Blue answered at the same time, much to the surprise of their moms.

"Then it decided! Let go!"

"Now, just wait a minute, Spits, I know what you are doing. You can't keep dodging…" Soarin complained, but it was too late since before he was done talking, Spitfire had already grabbed them and put everyone on a cloud and started to push it away as fast as her wings could allow her.

"…us?" Soarin looks back, starting to realize what was happening.

"I'm still a volunteer for the day," Spits replied with a smile. "So if you want to talk, you better help me with at least this."

She just placed seven ponies on a cloud and flew us away from the park and into the city in about a minute and a half. Damn! This mare has some muscle. Blue Yonder thought in surprise, slowly blinking to realize what just happened.

"You have to give her that. She is dedicated to her job," Allmane mentioned while regarding Spitfire.

"Oh, she was always a very passionate mare, even when she was a filly," Her mom replied, looking to the two with an apologetic smile. "I'm so sorry you were dragged into this, you two."

"It ok, that's how kids are at times, right?" Sunshine dismissed her worries with a waved hoof. "If anything, this will make it even more of a day to remember, right?"

"A chance to have tips on flight from the wonderbolts themselves? I think your daughter just made us supermoms." Allmane jokes, lightening the mood as all the mares chuckle and talk about it.

"Isn't it exciting!? While we wait and try again, we will be getting tips from the wonderbolts!" Scootaloo babbles to Blue Yonder, barely containing her emotions and grinning from ear to ear.

"Yeah! and at the end of the day, we might even be able to fly like the professionals," Blue replies. Equally happy with this course of events. "That collision ended up been a stroke of luck." He casually mentioned before pausing to listen to himself, and his eyes widened in realization, remembering Vision words, and then looking back at Rainbow Dash and Soarin. 

No way
> Flight 101 (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Ok, because your wings are on the big size, you would need twice the force to move them up in the air, so you want to conserve your energy. Don't waste your time with fast and repeated movements. Use your own momentum to your advantage. You want long and slow flaps." Soarin explained to the moms and kids as he demonstrated moving his wings as he instructed a couple of times. Meanwhile, after offering to bring some refreshments, Spitfire, her mom, and Rainbow Dash went to a nearby cafe across from the park they were at at the moment, no doubt in an attempt to continue dodging the looming confrontation.

Said plaza wasn't as vast or imposing as cumulus park but still rather large, with a pretty and well-kept playground for kids to use. One big tree stood tall in its center, and there, the prince was impressed by what he could only describe as a greek treehouse, and instead of being made of wood or built in a humble, straightforward design, this one had Greecian pillars covered by vines arranged so the kids could swing on them. A larger house structure rested on top, making it look more like a temple as kids flew about and played around it. At first, he was confused by the lack of stairs, but then he remembered that everyone has wings, so adding them seemed pointless.

"As for you, Scoots, don't worry. I know how you have been having problems staying in the air before, and I have the perfect solution for your situation."

"You do?" Scootaloo asked, equal parts surprised and hopeful at Soarin's word, as he smiles and nodded. "Rainbow has told us about how good you are with your scooter and a ramp. You can execute one of the sickest of tricks, is that right?"

"Oh yeah, give a scooter, and I can show you how to shred." She exclaimed in pride. "I might not be good at flight, but my wings help me gain a lot of speed."

"That's great! Because that is exactly what you can use to reach the skies properly." Soarin mentioned earning her complete attention. "The key factor to achieving flight is for you to be comfortable while doing so, in order to fly, we are going to put you on familiar ground. This is what I want you to do, close your eyes and visualize yourself on a ramp with your scoot..." As the wonder bolt kept giving her some pointers on how to fly, Blue Yonder didn't pay too much attention as his focus wandered back at the cafe with some concern until another nudge from his mother and a shake of her head caught his attention.

"It's not our place to interfere," She whispered before directing his attention to Soarin once again, who was helping Scootaloo and her mom maintain balance as she kept hovering in the air for a couple of seconds before having to stop and fall, only to be caught by her mom, both looked particularly happy with the progress that was made in the lesson.

With a sigh, Yonder nodded, and they both went towards Soarin and waited for him to finish his improvised lesson with Scootaloo. "That is it! Keep it up, remember that sensation and picture yourself about to reach the edge of the ramp and push forward. Let your wings guide you." He kept encouraging her. The jumps Scootaloo made were getting higher and higher to her credit, and she seems to be gaining more momentum in the air before coming back down.

Yeah…yeah! she's right! I'm not here to fix other's problems. This is supposed to be our day off. Those two are grown up mares. What right do I have to be messing with them? I need to focus on why I came here, which is learning to fly!… Then I'll see if I can help them out! Yonder nod to himself as he look with determination at the Wonderbolt

"Now for you, how is your wing holding up Yonder? Still sore?" Soarin asked in concern, "We can start with just slow flaps if you want."

"No, it's ok, really! My wing doesn't even hurt anymore. I think I'm ready to try."

"Great! In that case, follow my lead and remember slow flaps. I want you to lean down and start by making some practice wing flaps, get familiar with the motion, and don't worry about lifting off. We will cover that later. For now, just repeat my motions." He instructed before demonstrating by making the motion for Yonder to copy.

Following his example, Blue Yonder placed his barrel to the cloud ground and, after closing his eyes, focused on the motion of his extremities. Listening to Soarin's attentive guidance, he could feel strong wind starting to rush away by his sides. The experience was oddly calming, as the sensation on his wings were beginning to give him an odd phantom feeling of having arms again. Though now they were covered in a comfortable blanket. "That is it! Keep it up, get familiar with your senses, and don't forget to open your eyes." Soarin kept teaching, occasionally counting to help him time his movements. Blue Yonder felt how the Wonderbolt helped him put his goggles back on, making him open his eyes again as he continued, focusing on the instruction.

On occasion, he would start to feel the middle of his back beginning to rise involuntarily as he unconsciously started to flap harder, as his body began to act on pure instinct.

"Nice! It seems like we are ready for the fun part!" Soarin exclaimed before turning to look at Sunshine, catching her by surprise. "Hooves in the air, miss Sunshine, trust me, you want to be there for what will happen next." He enthusiastically stated before going back to Blue Yonder. "Ok, kid, at the count of three, I want you to give me one strong flap and a jump at the same time. Think you can do that?"

Yonder was so focused that rather than answer, he simply nodded and watched as Soarin took to the air with his mother. "Ok then, in that case. On my mark, one…" All the muscles in Blue Yonder's body tensed in anticipation "…two" he planted his hooves on the cloud as hard he could. He leaned back, closing his eyes once more "…three!"

In that second, the colt leapt off the ground and became weightless, the air between his wings was tenderly stroking each feather-like smooth velvet, and he felt in complete control. Opening his eyes, he once again, could see the full splendor of Clouddale in the distance with the clouds and the multicolored ponies flying to and fro, and in the middle of it all was none other than his aunt with her hoof extended as he approached. Getting closer, he could even see past her disguise and see the princess still looking at him with the proudest smile he has ever seen. He could have sworn that tears were forming in the corners of her eyes before being embraced in her hug as the two spun in the middle of the sky.

"I did it. I flew. I'm flying on my own!" Blue Yonder shouted at the top of his lungs, still recovering from what he achieved, with a grin from ear to ear.

"You were great, sweetie! I'm so proud of you, my little knight, you!" She exclaimed, barely containing her own excitement, while Blue was practically shaking, not out of fear but instead still absorbing all the sensations and emotions that were passing through his mind at that moment, joy, exhilaration, adrenaline, peace, anxiety, want. All of them swirling around at the same time and making his brain work overtime. He didn't fully comprehend it now, but there was something that he was sure of. He just got a taste of how it felt to fly…and he wanted to do it again as soon as possible.

Is this what skydivers feel? No, what pilots think? Maybe a fusion of the two? Whatever the case, now I understand why they love it so much...and I want more!

"The first time is always magical, isn't it?" Soarin chuckled as he approached the pair once they were done spinning. By then, Blue Yonder had calmed down enough to stop shaking and looked at him, although he was still speechless from the adrenaline rush. "You're a natural kid. That was an incredible first try. Usually, it takes three to five tries before kids your age manage to get the hang of lift-off, but you handled yourself quite well back there."

"Careful Soarin" The voice of Spitfire caught everyone's attention as she and the rest came back with the drinks. "When it comes to kids, the last thing you want to do is to let their ego go to their heads, well kids and Rainbow Dash."

"Hey!" Rainbow looked at her offended, Spits only chuckled and gave her a light shove. "Relax, I'm just joking."

"Rainbow, look!" Scootaloo didn't waste any time and rushed to her side before jumping and hovering in mid-air. "I'm flying! Soarin's advice helped! Now I know how I can fly!" She babbled in excitement before descending into the ground, visibly shaking from the excitement.

"Woah there, I wouldn't go that far yet." The Wonderbolt voiced his concern as he and the rest of the group took up their drinks. "I'm only saying that you two are making headway with the lesson. You both are quick learners, mastering lift off, but flying for real? There are still pointers that you two need."

The kids looked down in disappointment until Spitfire spoke up.

"But you are almost there, and from what I see, you are ready for your first Wonderbolt trick lesson!" That did the trick as they perked up again.

"Who wants to learn how to do a mid-air backflip?"

The question made both moms do a double-take and almost spat their coffees as they look at the captain in surprise and with just a hint of fear.

"I do!"
"I do!" They responded at the same time.

"Awesome, then let's warm-up first, do a couple of lift-offs, and I will be with you in a moment. Let's see what you got."

They both nod and ran towards the center of the park with their worried parents not too far behind as they start to bounce around once again. Yonder even noticed what Scoots meant by flying. Unlike him, who merely needed to flap his wings once. Scoot's movements were far too rapid for him to see them clearly. Managing not only to lift off but also move sideways and up and down, resembling a hummingbird. More than rising in the sky, Scoots seemed to be jumping on the atmosphere.

Ah, I get it now. She was exploiting the momentum of her jumps. Instead of exerting herself keeping her wings moving, she uses them as power boosts while positioning her body in the direction she wants to go, reorienting herself in the direction she wants to go. She found the rhythm for her wings that saves energy while keeping her in the air. It is similar to the principle of a rocket.

"Tree branch" Vision out of nowhere appeared in front of the colt, startling him and making him back away and lose control until he found himself tangled inside a tree for not paying attention.

"Yonder!" Sunshine went to help him up and started to push away. "Are you ok? Nothing broke?"

"Everything's cool, mom. Nothing happened, just got distracted, that all."

"Oh, Blue, you need to pay more attention to where you are going, especially when flying." She gently reprimanded him in between bites as she removed the vines.

"Sorry, I will try to keep it in mind," He chuckled, trying to help until they hear the Wonderbolt captain talking, unaware of their presence.

"I hope you know what you are doing, Spitfire," Her mom voiced her concern looking at her daughter with a neutral expression. "You are going so far just to avoid the subject at hoof."

"I don't know what you mean, mom," The captain replied sheepishly.

"Spits, come on! As Soarin said, we only want to help you. So please stop with the distractions and tell us what is on your mind already." Dash pleaded with her captain.

"How many times do I have to keep telling you? I'm fine." Spitfire quickly replied defensively. "Why don't you believe me?"

"Because since the lockdown was lifted, you have been acting strange, Spit!" Rainbow confronted her, getting angrier. "Before all that mess, you were so outgoing and energetic. You were the team's soul and always knew what to say or how to lift our spirits. But now it's like you've been on autopilot with your team and keep trying to distract yourself with more work. For Celestia sake, you have practically move into your office?! I'm starting to fear you barely have slept as well! It always work and dismissing concern with you! Spitfire, please, I beg of you, what happened at that party? What made you become this obsess with work yourself to the bone?"

For her part, Spitfire remained silent before looking down. "I let two idiots beat up the prince." She finally confessed, holding back tears and her voice full of guilt, catching everyone listening off guard.

"Spits" Soaring tried to approach her, but she swiped his hoof away. "Don't! Don't you dare say I didn't do anything because that is exactly what led to that mess, nothing! I was in way over my head and left my guard down. No, I did worse, as the freaking prince was being cut, beaten, and humiliated in front of all of Equestria. Where was I? Passed out like a fan mare, I didn't even know what was happening until hours later! Hours, Dash! Me! The captain of the Wonderbolts, the fastest team ever, arrived late! Do you have any idea how much that stings?! To know that if only you had taken your job a little more seriously, none of that would have happened? That night, I failed as a Wonderbolt, a servant to the crown, and as a friend. That is a mistake I will not repeat. Do you hear me? Never again!"

After her outburst, she turned around and marched away from the group after taking a deep breath.

"Now, let go. Before the kids get impatient, we have a job to finish." The captain said, forcing a smile on as she flew toward Scoots and Allman.

"Spits, wait up!" Soarin called for her, and soon the rest gave chase after her. Once free, both Sunshine and Yonder glided down to the base of the tree, watching her go with concern before turning to his mom.

"Mom, I know what you are gonna say, but that duel, I was the one that…"

"Blue," Sunshine interrupted him before he could continue and placed a hoof on his shoulder. "I stand by what I said earlier. All of our subjects deserve their right to privacy, and we can't just fix every single one of their problems when they present themselves. They need to learn their lessons on their own. Otherwise, they will just become dependent and incapable of fending for themselves." She professed neutrally, dampening the mood as he looked down in sadness.

"…that being said, there's no harm in giving a small nudge in the right direction." His ears perked up the moment he heard that, and he looked up in shock. He saw her smiling kindly at him.

"So that means…?" He ask hopefully as his smile was slowly returning 

Before finishing, she nodded slowly before getting closer. "But only if you do as I say, understood? This is their personal lives we are talking about, so we will only help them put things into perspective. That is all, are we clear?"

He nodded eagerly. "Thank you, auntie. I promise I will listen to all of your instructions. Oh, this is great. I will finally be able to put all of aunt Luna's lessons into practice."

"Ahem," Celestia cleared her throat and regarded him with a rising eyebrow. "While following your example, and without getting too involved in the process, of course," He continued with a sheepish smile.

"That is better, and you better pay attention, dear. Because I am going to teach you how to approach these situations the right way, with the delicacy they require, so just for now, follow my lead, observe and most importantly of all, gather as many clues and pieces of information as possible." She instructed before they joined the rest of the group.

"You got it, auntie" He nodded in determination as he focused on Spitfire while Sunshine internally ruminated on what could have happened.

I might not know the captain personally, but Rainbow Dash is right. Of all the times we have seen each other, there have only been a hoofful of ponies that have been more outgoing and carefree than Spitfire has been. There is no way that a single mistake would bring her spirits this low. Something else happened during that time. What are you not telling us, Spitfire? What's made you feel such guilt and self-loathing?

She kept pondering as they marched and steeled herself, determined to find what caused the Wonderbolt captain to think so little of herself.
> Subtle Push (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The trip back to Canterlot was relatively silent as the two princesses returned to the castle, with Platinum taking the occasional glance at her niece. The Lunar princess was deep in thought at the moment with a thousand mile stare. Others would never have guessed it, from her expertly maintained poker face, but to the mare that raised her? It was wholly transparent. Something was eating her up, and Platinum knew precisely what it was, yet she couldn't discuss the issue with her, not now with so many potential prying eyes and ears nearby.

Their inevitable conversation would have to wait until they had safely returned to Luna's chambers, and they had ensured that no one could listen. It was a routine that Luna knew well and put into action as she closed her windows and cast as many silencing spells as possible while maintaining her posture and etiquette.

Just as I taught you, good girl.

Platinum took the opportunity to give herself a small mental pat on the back in pride, seeing that her teachings had not been lost with time, as the room was finally secure.

"You did well remaining calm and collected until it was safe to speak again, my little filly." Platinum informed as she looked around the room, regarding the intricate runes plastered all over like glowing bubbles that hugged the walls, roof, and floor of Luna's room, "I think that is enough, Luna. We can speak freely, now tell aunt Platinum what's on your mind."

"Oh, easier say than done, auntie. Right now, my mind is awash with so many questions swirling around I don't even know where to begin." Luna let out a sigh and exhaled deeply before turning around to look at Platinum. "The existence of a third sister? The notion of her being trapped in an even worse prison than even I was? How long will it take to free her? Because by the stars we need to rescue her! The repercussions her return will have on our nation. Oh, pony feathers, our nation! This revelation will completely upend our governance. Equestria will no longer be a diarchy; it will become a triumvirate! This is beyond a minor incident anymore. Equestria as we know it will change forever." Luna starts to babble, rubbing her forehead while pacing back and forth.

"Luna! Luna, look at me! Look at me!" Platinum rushed to her and ordered to look her in the eyes. "Take a deep breath and let everything sink in slowly, dear. I know it's a lot of information to take in right now, so don't try to wreck your brain too much with it." Platinum instructed, stopping her pacing and putting her right hoof over her chest. "Like a taught you, close your eyes, and take things one step at a time."

Finally relaxing, Luna turned to look at her aunt with concern. "Auntie, this is too much. By the stars, how I'm even going to explain this to Tia?"

"Easy, you won't," Platinum responded with a smile. Taking Luna by surprise as she stepped back. "Just like you, her memories will eventually return in time, and just like what happened to you, I will guide her every step in the process, just like I'm doing and will continue to do until it's all over. That is why we are here, why I'm here right now." Platnum assured her with a caring smile.

"So this is why you came back from the afterlife then?" Luna remarked, relaxing a little more. "Is aunt Hurricane and Pudding…"

Before Luna could finish, Platinum nodded, "We all had a mission of sorts. For the moment, I was placed in charge of looking after you two. I have been granted a sort of sense to know when the hold of the curse would start to wane. I was always one who could act quickly and with precision. Pudding is preparing an expedition to track down historical records and prevent confusion as to why suddenly, all of the history books are going to look like they have been vandalized and changed." Platinum chuckled and closed her eyes. "Your sister was a pretty proactive mare back in her days, so of course, her absence greatly changed a lot of historical events, events that need to be preserved and remembered again and not chalked up as fake or wrong, or worse, tossed into the fire." She said determinedly. "As for Hurricane, she…has another mission to attend to."

"What is her mission, auntie?"

Platinum smiled and shook her head. "I believe you've had enough surprises for the day, Lulu. For now, try to relax and move on." she pointed to Luna's desk. "I promise I will help with every question you have once the initial shock fades away. But for now, it might be best if you return to your duties."

"So that's it then? Am I to keep quiet and pretend none of this is happening? To sit around knowing how my sister is trapped in the stars, know what type of prison? Trapped outside of reality itself and waiting until the curse lifts on its own accord?" She questioned in disbelief as her aunt marched to the door. There she stopped and sighed in sadness and looked down to the stone floor. "Now you know how Celly felt."

The room went eerily quiet as Luna slowly realized what her aunt was saying, and a mix of empathy and guilt washed over her body.

Tia…all those years…this is what you silently endured all alone?

Her self-reflection came to a swift halt when both mares heard a knock on the door. Catching them both by surprise as Platinum turns to Luna, "Were you expecting company, dear?"

Luna shook her head before going to answer only to discover the ex-member of the wonderbolts, Crossfire Tempo, on the other side. "Oh, there you were, dear. I'm terribly sorry for the intrusion" Taking a side glance, Tempo noticed the other princess in the room. "Oh, is this not a good time?" She asked, shuffling her hooves on the floor with some heating forming in her cheeks from the embarrassment.

"There is nothing to worry about, miss Tempo," Luna calmed her down with a smile "My aunt and I were only having a conversation regarding some old subjects leftover from her time ruling and how they had changed since then. An excuse for us to catch up since her return."

"Oh, wonderful! It's always lovely to spend some quality time with your family. That was exactly why I'm here."

"It is?" Luna asked with a raised eyebrow

"By any chance, have you seen my sweet nephew, princess? I have been looking all over for him this morning, yet he seems to have vanished. Did he go out by chance?" She asked the Lunar Princess innocently, who continued to regard the mare with skepticism.

Didn't my nephew already clear things with her? I clearly remember watching him and Tempo ending this exact conversation before one of our sessions. I'm sure she didn't like the idea, by the restrained anger in her face.

"Indeed, he is out. Today is a special day that he and my sister were planning on spending some time together, Ms. Tempo." Luna answered, making the mare's eye widen in honest surprise, not from the event in question but the realization, confusing her in the process. "Oh right! That is today. Derp" She jokingly chastised herself by lightly patting her head and sticking out her tongue. "Oh, me and my forgetfulness."

That was almost…tame, compared to the first time she heard the news.

"It completely slipped my mind. Sorry to bother you." She waved a quick goodbye before turning around and leaving without saying another word. Luna quickly performed a discreet and silent scan on her without the mare noticing, growing confused when the spell confirmed that she was indeed the mare in question and not a changeling pretending to be her.

Once out of earshot, Platinum spoke again, standing next to Luna. "There is something strange about that pegasus, Lulu. How long did you say she will be staying here?" She wondered out loud with a raised eyebrow.

"I'm…not so sure, to be honest. I thought it would only last until Nightmare Night, but I'm starting to fear that she may want to move in and use her position as god-mother and play the "wishing for atonement" card to achieve it. At first, I liked the idea and could relate to her wanting to be better and put her bitterness behind, but there is something…odd about her. She doesn't seem dangerous or plotting anything, just…odd."

"Would you like me to keep an eye on her, dear?"

"Oh goodness no, I couldn't impose you to do…" Platinum stopped her by raising a hoof.

"Please allow me. I might have a mission, but I was also your caretaker once, and that is a job that never ends. Just relax and let mommy take care of the odd mare." She scolded her with a smile making Luna roll her eyes, but she ultimately accepted, knowing full well how stubborn Platinum can be at times. "Take a couple of my bat ponies with you, just as a small precaution, okay?"

"But of course! I'm not an idiot either. No proper princess should ever go anywhere without a proper escort. For security and as a show of glamour." She reminded her before walking away, making Luna chuckle lightly at the old lesson.

You sure drilled that lesson in our heads, auntie.

"Now, back to work, young lady! Those papers will not sign themselves." Platinum ordered from the end of the hallway before turning the corner and taking her leave, making Luna groan and slouch in laziness.

"And no slouching!" That surprised her, and she stood straight once more, looking at the empty hallway.

Wait, how did she do that?

Back at Cloudsdale

After spending the better part of 2 hours, both Scootaloo and Blue Yonder started to grasp how to fly. Soon both kids were starting to soar through the air half-decently with their parents. Allmane, in particular, couldn't have felt more proud watching her daughter finally take her first steps into learning to fly and having the opportunity to be a part of it.

As they kept practicing, Sunshine gave her son a short nod as a signal to put her plan in action. Once he was finished with yet another practiced lift-off, Blue focused his attention on Spitfire as she gave Scootaloo some pointers for the future.

"Ah, miss Spitfire?" As the mare in question turned to look at him, she was slightly startled and confused about how Blue Yonder asked for her attention in an almost whispered tone keeping his head down like he was afraid she might get angry at any minute. "Are you okay? Do you feel bad, or are you feeling sick?"

Caught off guard, she cast a sideways glance at Soarin and then Rainbow Dash, fear and anger bubbling to the surface at the prospect that they had planned something. Her rancor soon vanished; however, once she saw how they looked equally surprised. Even her mother didn't seem to know what was happening. Regaining her composure, she smiles and looks at him, trying to act as calm as possible so as not to scare the already frightened child. "I'm okay, champ. There is nothing to worry about." She played it off and messed with his mane a little bit. "Why do you ask?"

"Well, you seemed a bit tired when I saw you in the other park and when your friends and your mom came to see you, I thought something bad happened to you." He then lifted his head to look her in the eyes, showing genuine concern. "And if it isn't that, then why did they look so sad, miss Spitfire? Did you do something bad?" His question caught Spitfire entirely off guard, really not expecting a kid to be this perceptive and not knowing how even to begin to answer.

She didn't have to answer, luckily for her, because soon after, his mom came along and rescued her from what would have been a very awkward conversation.

"Yonder!" Sunshine rushed to his side and grabbed his shoulders. "I told you not to do that again," She gently reprimanded him before looking at Spitfire in embarrassment. "I'm sorry, miss Spitfire. I swear he didn't mean to put you in an uncomfortable position. He got carried away again."

Confused, Rainbow Dash approached the two with a raised eyebrow.

"Again?"

Blue Yonder, now completely ashamed and realizing his mistake, bowed to Spitfire. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, Miss Spitfire, I can't help it. When I see a pony sad, I start seeing things, and next thing I know…I'm sorry it was a slip of the tongue, I swear."

Sunshine then started to console her frightened child, pulling him closer to her with her wing before wrapping him up in a hug so he could recover before looking at the growing concerned group around the two. "Please don't hold it against him, miss Spitfire. He didn't have any ill intentions. As he says, it's something that happens from time to time."

"Ah, what exactly happens?" Spitfire fire asked, confused. Now growing concerned about what she had witnessed, as Sunshine explained.

"You see, ever since he was able to talk, my little knight here had shown to have an eye for details, in more ways than you could imagine. I wouldn't say that he has a photographic memory, though. If you give him 10 minutes and an ice-cream cone and he will forget much about the details of the place he was just in like any colt." She half-joked, trying to lighten the mood, before continuing, "But whatever he lacks in retention, he makes up for with how acute his attention to detail is, with both his surrounding and the ponies in it."

This revelation surprised Spitfire, and she turned to observe the kid who was looking down pitifully as he continued to hug his mother. "I didn't mean to stare, miss, but for me, it's hard not to notice. You looked so sad and indecisive. Like you did something wrong or wanted to ask for something but didn't know how or when, and that was eating you alive. I only wanted to help. Mom always tells me that talking always makes things better. Still, every time I try, everypony gets afraid of me, thinking I can read minds or they get angry and pretend they are okay. Please don't yell at me!" He confessed, cringing in anticipation until his mom calmed him down once more.

"Nobody is going to yell at you, sweetie. I'm sure Miss Spitfire is probably just tense from some long days at work or maybe just tired, right miss?" Sunshine looked at her, searching for approval as the wonderbolt nodded and smiled. "Y-Yeah, that is right, you caught me, champ. I haven't gotten much sleep recently" She gave a toothy grin, much to the displeasure of her teammates.

"Oh, so that's what happened?" Blue Yonder nodded, convinced, before looking at her in worry. "You should try to sleep more then miss Spitfire. You were starting to look very sad and conflicted."

Once more, Spitfire flinched at the remark before Sunshine pulled her colt away. "Now, now dear, we talked about not getting too involved. Come, what do you say if we go get you an ice-cream?"

"Oh! With toppings and syrup?" He asked excitedly, making her giggle. "Of course." She replied as they prepared to leave, followed closely by Allmane and Scootaloo, sharing a concealed wink when no pony was watching. After hearing about the treat, the filly looked at her mom with pleading eyes making Allmane chuckle and roll hers before nodding and agreeing on getting her an ice-cream as well. Leaving the wonderbolts alone. Who kept quiet, looking at their captain as she let out a sigh and looked down in shame.

"Spits" Soarin finally broke the silence and approached her. "We are not going to pressure you anymore, but if not for us, please, by the love of Celestia, at least do it for your fans. Those are the ones you are letting down the most, sharp or not. If a colt can see it, what's the point of hiding it anymore?"

For her part, Spitfire only kept her eyes closed and mentally weighed her options in frustration until she finally cracked up and looked back at him in defeat. "Okay, Soarin, you win" She then looked at Dash and her mom. "You all win, and you are right. Those idiots shocked me to the core and forced me to review many things during and after the lockdown. It was hard at first, but luckily I wasn't alone. Two ex-wonderbolts were trapped in there with me, and while we were waiting for all this mess to end, we talked a lot. About our team, how it was back in their day and an idea that could potentially restore the glory that we have lost guys." she confides to the group with a little smile. "I kept quiet because I didn't know how to tell you. And well, I needed to do a lot of soul searching… perhaps I need some more." She admitted with some level of embarrassment as she smiled again, only this time it was a real smile.

"So that was why you were acting so strange then?" Dash said in realization. "Okay, now we are making progress. That's good. It's good to know it wasn't all that bad."

"Let not get ahead of ourselves, Dash." Soaring voiced his opinion before looking at Spitfire. "Who were these supposed ex-wonderbolts that made you question so much about our team?" He asked, questioning her story

"Relax, Soarin, they are legit. You can check the records if you like, and they are cool. There's nothing to worry about with them." Spitfire dismissed his concerns before looking eagerly at her mom. "You can vouch for them, mom. One of them was even my childhood idol growing up."

At this statement, her mother's eyes widened in realization, "You mean that that mare was there? But I thought she was banished. Ever since the accident, nobody has ever seen heads or tails of her"

"I know, right! It turns out she used part of her name and went off the grid to recover, but she's back now! The mare I looked up to when I was training to become a Wonderbolt. None other than the legendary Crossfire Tempo," She proclaimed in excitement, "She and none other than her right-wing, Sharp Shooter."

Unknown to anyone in the group, a concerned Celestia was observing their conversation. She was reading their lips expertly, concealing her actions by happily eating her treat alongside her nephew. However, the mention of those two names forced her to pause as it shattered her carefully maintained facade for a brief moment as her expression turned into one of concern and surprise.

Tempo and Sharp Shooter, what did you do?
> Veterans Ideology (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Taking a sip from her tea, Crossfire Tempo took a short break from reading a truly massive assortment of letters arranged in two towers in front of her to look up and enjoy the beauty of the royal garden. The moment had an almost Zen-like form of peace with the birds singing not too far away—the cold breeze of autumn combined with midday sunlight kept everything relatively warm and cozy.

"Nice weather we are having, don't you agree?" The voice of Platinum alerted the ex-wonderbolt, tearing her attention away from the scenery to watch as one of the founders of Equestria made her way towards her with a calm smile and a platoon of bat pony guards escorting her.

"Oh, princess Plantinum, you startled me." Tempo mentioned holding her chest with one hoof before relaxing and looking back at the garden once again. "And indeed today seems particularly pleasant, so much so that it would be a crime not to enjoy it, at least a for a moment."

"I couldn't agree more" Plantinum nodded before pointing at an empty chair in front of the pegasus. "Mind if I join you?"

"Not at all, please have a seat," Tempo invited her, and the princess took her offer, sitting in the empty chair as her entourage moved around the area to protect her. The princess took note of the stack of letters on the table and a seal of approval and ink near the ex-wonderbolt, piquing her interest.

"So, miss Tempo, if it isn't too much to ask. May I enquire about all that paperwork you have there? I was under the impression that you were merely visiting to spend time with your godchild."

"Oh, this? Oh, it's just some paperwork I brought with me. As ironic as it might sound, being the owner of the best spa chain Equestria has ever seen has its drawbacks. Like ordering all the materials necessary to keep everything smoothly without going over or under budget with the creams, ointments, towels, water bills, you get the idea." Tempo replied with a calm smile. "As you said, I'm mainly here to stay with my nephew, but things like this? Well, they can't be put on hold. You understand?"

"Oh, I'm familiar with it indeed. Paperwork is easily the worst nightmare a good ruler has to face on an almost daily basis." Platinum replied, "So, I couldn't help but overhear that you were looking for Blueblood. I was wondering why and hoping to see if I could help you with anything?"

Tempo brought her right hoof up to the oval emerald necklace she was wearing and lightly stroked it while humming with her eyes closed in thought at the princess's proposal. "Perhaps you could, your highness, perhaps you could." She nodded before stopping fiddling with her jewelry and looked at the princess once more. "You see, ever since the incident on Nightmare Night, I have been thinking about everything my sweet godchild has been forced to endure, and honestly, I'm worried for his safety," She confessed before looking down with pity. "I understand that all of these actions were beyond his control, but after seeing how often his life has been put at risk, I can't help but question how safe he is here."

"Yes, I remember how vocal you were after the last incident." Platinum commented with a fake smile, slightly irked by the events with Nightmare Moon. "And while I share in your desire that things have gone down a different…"

"Why not make it a reality then?" Tempo interrupted the princess before she could continue.

"I beg your pardon?" Platinum looked at her with a raised eyebrow as Tempo seemed to have switched from calm to excited, unusually fast.

"It's no secret that my relationship with Celestia has been…tense, but if there is something that we both agree on, it's wishing for our family's well being. That is just what I would like to discuss with her, a way to make things safer for him, and by extension, for all of Equestria. But she never listens to what I have to say! No, that mare is the most infuriating, stubborn…"

"Careful, Miss Tempo," Platinum warned with a glare while keeping her calm demeanor though one eyebrow started to spike occasionally in a clear sign of anger. "That is my filly you are talking about."

"And that's exactly why she would listen to you! I wish to offer an olive branch with this idea of mine, but things would certainly speed up if the suggestion to listen comes from you." Tempo grabs one of her hooves and smiles at her. "So what would you say, princess? Would you listen to the request of this concerned godmother wishing to protect the child of her dearest friends? The one who was entrusted with his protection?" She pleaded with big eyes and flattened ears, looking intently at the princess until she sighed and looked down in defeat.

"Before I give you my answer, I want to hear it." Platinum looked back at her neutrality. "Tell me, what do you have in mind? What idea did you come up with that could improve the security for all of Equestria?"

"Oh, thank you, your highness. I'm sure you will love it!" She retracted her hoof and started to rummage through the completed papers in a pile. "The best part is that you will not have to do much other than give the final approval. A friend of mine and I have been working on this idea for a while now, aha! Here it is." She extended a paper and showed it to the princess. "What would you say if I told you that we had found a way to make the royal guards even more effective than what they are now…" She started explaining in great detail as she laid out her project.

Back at Cloudsdale

While enjoying their treats, Blue Yonder took the occasional glance at the Wonderbolts with a smile as he watched how things unfolded. The tension seemed to be leaving their systems. While he might not know what exactly they were talking about. He could at least take solace in perceiving how the group's pressure was slowly fading away, especially Spitfires, who seemed to be relaxing more. Unbeknownst to him, his mom was listening in just fine by reading their lips and what she was hearing planted the seed of concern in her heart.

"Ok, listen, as I said, this is just a suggestion, and I'm still considering it if we should do it or not, so don't jump to any conclusions, Dash." The captain shot a side glance at Dash before continuing. "During the lockdown, the idea that I was completely powerless hit me hard. I wanted to do something to help but didn't know what, and while Crossfire let me crash in her hotel room and hang out with her and Sharp Shooter, I discovered that it wasn't something that only happens to our group."

Sunshine's eyes widened slightly in realization. Sharp Shot, tell me you didn't. The mare's suspicions were confirmed by the following words the captain spoke.

"I think the Wonderbolts should incorporate royal guard training regimens in our program and get more involved with the Equestrian air force."

You did

Sunshine looked down in disappointment.

"What?!" Rainbow almost yelled in shock at what Spitfire was suggesting. "Y-you mean like taking on some royal guard duties?"

"No, I mean like becoming royal guards fully. To turn our group into a subdivision in the air force, to be more precise." Spitfire elaborated. "Think of the good we could do, Dash. Do you know how useful you could be as a ranger or part of a rescue and search team? What could we all accomplish if only we were trained in those areas?" She continued trying to sell the idea.

"B-But that is not what being a Wonderbolt is. We're Equestria aces in the sky, the best air acrobats. We are what any pegasus colt and filly want to become when they grow up. Sure we have some training, and we keep tabs on weather cleaning and activities, and we are ready to serve in times of war, but we are not royal guards." Rainbow Dash countered.

"And that is exactly why I’d been wondering if we should or shouldn't try it," Spitfire argued back. "I love my job and our team, and I'm the last pony that wants to change this much, but Dash wake up already! Even you have to admit how we have been out of the league on more than one occasion. Remember the invasions? The dragon incident? Or what about Tirek? Each time we even dare do something other than spins and tricks in the air, we get our flanks handed to us. Even when just performing on more than one occasion, we have been greedy, treacherous, and self-absorbed...like the freaking captain of the team reduced to a fan filly after meeting her hero and taking a nap while Canterlot went to Tartarus." She mumbled the last part in anger, refusing to make eye contact with anyone for a moment before speaking again.

"Let's face it, guys, we need to clean up our act and know what we are doing. Yeah, sure, we know how to fly, but that is it. I'm not saying we should end the Wonderbolts. I was thinking, why not find a way to be better, more competent, and, more importantly, more useful to the crown. Doesn't that sound interesting, Dash? After this, we could fight bad guys and look hot while doing it. Together the Wonderbolts could be seventy-five percent more awesome than it was before and give our group a brand new glimmer for kids to admire."

"And make your job much more dangerous in the process," Her mother calmly voiced her concern. "Spicy, I'm with you in wishing to improve but actively seeking out danger? Isn't there another way?"

"Not to mention our training program will have to change," Soarin pointed out too, but to that, Spit only shrugged.

"Not by much, to be honest, we have a military system. We would be simply adding a combat component to it" She then turned to her mom. "And I understand what you mean, mom, but I'm not saying let's all go straight into danger. That is how you end up in…"

"…a full body cast." Dash and Soarin finished in stereo, knowing full well what she was going to a said with a roll of their eyes, catching her off guard momentarily "…right that, and this is more to prevent it, we will still do what we do, but if the situation demands it, we will be ready." Spitfire tried to explain to calm her mother's worries.

Sunshine, for her part, was internally surprised and slightly afraid, not by what Spitfire was suggesting but rather how she had heard a very similar speech before.

So this is the new approach you will try then? Oh, Sharp Shot, this is low, even for you. She shook her head and let out a disapproving sigh while starting to think about how she would put an end to this once she returned to the castle. All the while keeping a conversation with Allman and Scootaloo.

Once the Wonderbolts were done talking and started flying to the rest of the group, the prince smiled with a sense of pride of knowing that his mom's plan worked in the end. Yet before he went to see the mare in question, a tiny hoof kept his head still.

"That is good enough," The voice of Vision started to whisper into his left ear as he tried to look back at her, only to stop once again.

"Don't look back. They will think you're crazy if you start talking to thin air." Vision warned. At that moment, Blue Yonder realized that every pony was still moving, and nothing seemed to have changed, but he couldn't hear anyone other than themselves. "Don't worry, I will be quick, so just listen carefully." Once he relaxed, she let go of his head, sitting next to him so he could see her better, even if only from the corner of his eye. "Working together is nice and all, but wouldn't you like it if this wasn't an act?"

"Uh?" Raising his eyebrow and trying to be as quiet as possible, Blue Yonder hoped the point of his message would get across, which was confusion. Which luckily seemed to pass as Vision elaborated, "All of this day, or to be more specific, getting to experience what it's like to have a mom finally." She clarified, making him subconsciously turn to see his aunt happily chatting with Allman and Scootaloo about an adventure she had. "Working together is adorable and all, but wouldn't you like to take advantage of this day as much as possible? To have a bonding moment and pretend to have a mom? After all, that was a luxury you never had in your previous life, right?"

Yonder slowly nodded as the realization dawned on him.

"Doesn't it feel wonderful? To have your prayers answered? To experience that which you were deprived of previously? To truly have…"

"…A mother," Yonder finish and slowly extend his hoof to grab hers

"You did more than enough for today. You don't need to keep fixing everything around you, prince. Just lay back and enjoy your day. This is your wish come true. Don't let it go to waste." The voice of Vision grew quieter and softer until it disappeared. Everything goes back to normal as he touches Sunshine's hoof, which grabbed her attention and she turned to look at him with a smile at first before being surprised and slightly confused by how he was looking at her.

"What is the matter, dear?"

"It's nothing, mom, it just that…I just remember what we came here for in the first place." He confessed, looking down with a big smile. "We don't usually spend as much time together as we would like, and well, I just realized how much I miss you…on your trips." He quickly added, noticing how Allman and Scootaloo were now looking at him. "I don't want this day to end, mom." Blue then got up and hugged Sunshine, taking her slightly off guard but ever so grateful for the gesture, and she reciprocated the action.

"I love you too, mom." Scootaloo declared, doing the same as both mother and daughter were moved by Blue Yonder's words.

"What is bothering you, Blue? Sunshine whispered in his ear.

"Dealing with Spitfire made me realize what you have been trying to say to me all day, auntie." He whispered back. "We are here to have fun and spend time together away from all the craziness back home. I get it now, and I promise. No more setbacks, just mommy and me time from this point onward."

Sunshine smiled and nodded. Pleased by that answer, "You don't need to feel guilty, sweetie. You could do with exercising some subtlety next time, but your heart was always in the right place, and for that, you will never have to apologize. I'm happy you know exactly where to stop. I'm with you. This was enough drama for the day. Let us enjoy the rest of it."

"Agreed."

And with that, the drama of the day was done. After their little chat, Spitfire's mood improved a lot more, as she and her herd agreed to talk about the subject more calmly and with all of their teammates. A part of the princess was still worried about what that might mean for the future. Still, in the end, she decided to wait and deal with that another time. Instead, she kept enjoying the rest of the day as was intended, Giving more advice on flying with the group and later on, exploring the city by themselves. Sunshine had the chance to teach Blue Yonder more about its wonders, saving each memory with the help of a disposable camera Sunshine procured at some point.

On their way home, the mare was currently trying her hardest not to laugh as Canterlot came into view, with Blue still clinging to her back. "Mom! Please could you let it go already" Blue complained with a hint of crimson in his cheeks? Unable to resist his adorable look, Sunshine chuckled once more. "I'm-I'm sorry dear-I'm trying to let it go, but-but it's too hard!" She laughed more openly, clearing one of her eyes in the process. "I know I should have warned you sooner, but I didn't think you would dip your head in and slurp the rainbow!"

Blue only looked down in embarrassment, "Stupid skittles add," He mumbles to himself before looking back. "Mom, it was a rainbow RIVER! Do you know how incredible that sounds? On earth, rainbows are a refraction of light. I thought that was liquid light! Do you know what light tastes like? Because I don't, so of course I was a tad curious,... and maybe, I hoped it was strawberry flavor." He whispered the last part, primarily disappointed in the result and making Sunshine laugh again.

"Mom!"

"Ok, ok, it's out of my system now. I'm over it, promise." She told him, finally recovering control as her balcony started to come into view, as she tapped her necklace and ended the illusion returning to be the princess before any guards could spot her. "Jokes aside, I enjoyed our mother/son day Bluey, I know you were only doing it to keep your promise, but it meant a lot for me. Thank you for giving me this day."

Finally reaching her room, she landed and let the child descend from her back as she levitated all the pictures she took with care and excitement. "I can't wait to show Luna all the pictures we took, your first flight, your visit to the rainbow factory, your first view of Cloudsdale…oh, this one I'm framing." Celestia was about to exit when she suddenly felt the absence of a certain prince behind her.

"It wasn't just because I promised it," Blue confessed, catching the princess by surprise as she looked back at him, noticing how he was still there on the balcony with his head hanging low and still in his colt disguise. "Mo…auntie, I need to come clean with you. I was reading other ponies' expressions because I was practicing to identify certain tells in negotiations and at court. I memorized the clues I should be looking for, and I was doing that because…because I have already made my decision to help other kingdoms as I did in Manehattan."

This surprise caught Celestia off guard as Blueblood looked at her with a determined gaze. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner, but I didn't want that to get in our way of having fun. This was supposed to be your day off, and it wouldn't have been fair to burden you with my problems." Blueblood looked down again in shame. "I just wanted to give them my reply face to face without fear of being tricked again. I know how the game is played and wanted to be ready to play it. I'm sorry, auntie."

Celestia sighed and shook her head in slight disappointment. "Although I'm not pleased with you not telling me this sooner and trying to use our deal for your own agenda, I am happy that you came clean with me, Blueblood. We will discuss this later with your aunt, and I expect to hear the rest of this plan of yours in detail then, young colt, but for now, let us not let that small slip up sour our mood." She approached him and lifted his chin with her hoof to favor Blueblood with a smile. "I forgive you, nephew."

Her smile was infectious, and he soon did the same in gratitude and grasped her hoof. "Thank you, auntie. That is another thing I wanted to talk about. It might have started with that idea, but as the day progressed I decided to follow my own advice, and in the process  remembered something I thought I had forgotten a very long time ago."

"And what was it, sweetie?"

"Back when I was a human, growing up, I always had this silly wish of wanting to experience what it would feel like to have a mother." He confessed, looking away in embarrassment, not noticing the expression of slight shock in Celestia's face, though this was a different type. The first ones were simple surprises, easily identified. This was an entire spectrum of emotions, with shock and sorrow leading the charge. Celestia slowly retrieved her hoof. At the same time, Blueblood turned around and looked at the sky.

"I know it sounds ridiculous, childish, and even greedy coming from me, the spoiled brat that had everything in the world and kept wanting more and more. Heck, I don't even know if I wished for it or if it was just another delusion my brain made! But real or not, I'm happy that it came true."

He cleared a tear forming on his eye before continuing, "I know that I'm lying to myself, that no matter what happens, in your eyes I will always be 'the nephew,'  but even if it was just for one day, I'm delighted I had the chance to say how I feel."

The room went eerily silent as the tension in the room built upon itself, while the prince just refused to make eye contact with Celestia as he kept cleaning his eyes and chuckled lightly. "By the stars, I'm getting worked up by a silly act! How pathetic must I be looking right…?" Before he could finish, he could feel his aunt pulling him back towards her barrel, where she hugged him tightly using both her wings and hooves. Blueblood then noticed that she, too, was beginning to tear up as he heard her sob and felt some water falling on top of his head.

"It was real for me too" Celestia confessed with a whisper as she tightened her embrace. "No one will ever take your place in my heart! I won't be going anywhere, I swear! Nephew and aunt might be our titles, but in my eyes, you will always be my little knight." Trembling in emotions, Blueblood could not contain himself anymore and let the floodgates open as he turned around and embraced her in a hug just as tight as hers as they openly cried in joy.
> Prelude To Atonements (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bathed in the light of the moon, the sound of wooden swords clashing could be heard in the royal garden. Passing by guards and maids took the occasional glance at Princess Luna and Prince Blueblood as their sparring continued. The latter was trying his hardest to land one single strike on his aunt, who was constantly moving, jumping, and counter-attacking with a multitude of strikes at different angles. No matter what, his aunt always seemed to match each blow with a counter at the ready.

At some point, their sparring started to look more akin to a complex dance, and even though it was past midnight, neither of them seemed particularly exhausted and instead seemed to be playing more than training. This is what caught the attention of passersby, and a small audience was slowly forming at the entrance.

"That is it, nephew, just keep that pace," Luna instructed as she ducked beneath a swift cut. "Don't let your opponents fool you with bluffs and feints, read my moments, anticipate my next action, exploit my blind spots, keep me unbalanced." She pirouetted to the left and struck out with a downward slash only for her effort to be rebuffed by Blueblood's practiced defense. "Don't stop, maintain your hoofwork, always lead with your sword, make each strike flow the next one" At an unseen cue, both combatants adopted a low guard and started to circle each other counterclockwise, all while maintaining eye contact. In an instant, Luna lept backward as Blueblood spun around and tried to obscure her vision with his tail for a brief moment leaving an opening for a straight thrust. "Don't do what is expected, be unpredictable." She contorted herself out of the way, using her wings to fly higher as Blueblood levitated a piece of the ground into the air and jumped to follow after her. Luna's eyes widened in surprise as he continued his pursuit, using the same chunk to keep jumping until he had caught her and then struck down with a powerful blow forcing her to block and forcing them both to the ground. "Use your opponent's errors to your advantage. Momentum is key!" She casually used her sword to lever his hoof into a joint lock and spun around to send him stumbling backward. Blueblood tried to regain his balance, but Luna did not let up, lashing out with vicious blows from all directions. "Don't grasp the hilt so loosely!" adjusting her grip, Luna caught Blueblood off guard as she hurled her sword forward like a javelin catching him squarely in his chest and punching him back and to a knee as the air left his lungs. The Prince's sword cartwheeled through the air for a moment only to freeze and fly directly into Luna's waiting hoof, who then gently rested the point on her nephew's throat. "Or chain yourself to it," Luna finishes in a neutral tone before smiling and removing the sword, stowing it in the crook of her foreleg.

"Excellent work, nephew. That was definitely your best attempt yet." She praised him while helping him stand.

"I'm getting closer and closer with each attempt." The Prince chuckled as he grabbed her offered hoof and panted from exhaustion. Luna turned around and went to retrieve two bottles of water and towels held by two maids standing nearby. "I will get that point next time."

She can only smirk at the declaration. "Oh, is that so? In that case, I suppose I better stop holding back as well." She chuckled and shook her head the moment she saw the surprised expression on his face. "I jest, I would never strike you that hard. Ego's aside, though, I'm glad to see you in such high spirits, nephew." She passed him a bottle and towel. "It appears that my sister wasn't the only one who enjoyed that little trip you two partook in."

"I'll say. It helped us both put things into perspective and cleared the air about some things." Blueblood replied after taking a long drink from his bottle before pointing at her. "Don't worry, auntie, soon you will have your "mommy and me" day as well."

"Why? I have all the "me and nephew" time I want right here," She replied, extending her wing around the garden. "And I get to have it three nights a week. So adding a whole day too? Well, I think that would be overkill." She concluded with a wink. "Still, I appreciate the thought, dear." She then took a sip of their water as they marched towards the castle, their audience quickly dispersing before their boss noticed them slacking on the job.

"You also have improved with your microexpression readings, dear. There is still room for improvement, but from what I hear, you show a particular aptitude in the application of judging one's character and disposition by their expressions," Luna remarked, looking ahead of them.

"I'm glad to hear that. The last thing I want is to dive in unprepared for the meeting next week." Blueblood confessed before taking another sip of his drink.

"Nephew, I know you have your reasons, but is there no way that you could change your mind?" Luna looked at him with concern. "You have our full support with this, but facing our allies like this can be overwhelming. Perhaps we could start small first. Like a meeting among the nobles, perhaps?"

Blueblood sighed and looked down before looking up at Luna. "I understand your concern, but auntie, this is something I need to do. I caused all of this in the first place. Letting you solve it wouldn't be right. Plus, I need to show you that I can be a prince in more ways than just name. So please have faith in me. I'm telling you, I'm ready."

She sighed in defeat and nodded. "I would be the Princess of hypocrisy if I wouldn't let you shine on your own. Now more than ever, with how seriously you have taken to your training, I ask you to exercise caution, and if anything were to happen, know that we are there for you. I'm sure you will do fine." She smiled at him as they approached her chambers.

"And until then, have a good rest, nephew" She entered and was about to close the door when Blueblood grabbed the door, stopping it from closing it completely. "Auntie, I don't want to leave you with any worries. Tell you what, this week, I'm planning on cleaning up some of my more minor misdemeanors around Canterlot. Why don't you come and follow me from the shadows? See how I do, watch me put our lessons into practice, and ease any lingering doubts you might have. What do you say? Will that be alright with you?"

Luna stopped and considered Bluebloods suggestion for a moment. "And you wouldn't mind not knowing if I am or am not present?"

He shook his head. "Not at all."

She hummed in thought, "Would you object to wearing a necklace of my choosing?"

"As long as it's not too eye-catching, I wouldn't have a problem with it."

"That can be easily arranged. Very well, that would certainly put my mind at ease, nephew, and thank you for your consideration. I will make arrangements, so the ballroom is available by the end of the week for one final gathering with the nobles of the city, at night."

"A final test to watch me in action?" He inquired with a smirk and a raised eyebrow, an expression she mirrored. "Consider it, a practice meeting."

"Fair enough, but until then, goodnight, auntie."

"Goodnight, nephew" She closed the door, and the prince left to return to his chambers to prepare for the week ahead.

Meanwhile at the Crystal Empire

Yawning as she walked, Princess Cadence was headed to bed right after putting her child in hers when she spotted the lights of her and Shinings studio office on, as well as the silhouette of her husband hard at work writing something. Guided by curiosity and slight worry at the idea of him working so late, she stepped inside. Just as she thought, her husband was surrounded by a series of papers behind their opulent oak desk. He continued writing down what appeared to be some mathematical equation, judging by the numbers written on the scrolls and the occasional mumbles Shining let out while unconsciously nibbling on the edge of his quill. A trait that Cadence was well acquainted with from her years of babysitting Twilight. Who, like her brother, frequently indulged in the same nervous habit.

"…factor the time of discovery, carry the level of dryness in the bed, discard normal sweating, and that gives me…" He stopped for a moment to crunch a couple of numbers on a nearby calculator "4 hours and 32 minutes."

"Is that how long have you been studying that problem, dear?" Cadence asked with a smirk as she couldn't resist playing one small prank on her husband as he eeped and jumped, startled by her sudden presence, eliciting a chuckle from the Princess.

"Cadence, hi, sorry I didn't notice you. I was going over some notes Twily sent me and trying to close the time-gap on a case," Shining explained once he recovered and noticed the moon rising through one of the windows in the room. "Huh, I suppose I took longer than I expected. Oh no, did I forget about a meeting? Did I leave you alone with all of my duties?" He worriedly asked. But she dismisses his concern with a shake of her head.

"You didn't miss much. It was a slow day, so I mostly spent it with Flurry, so you chose a good moment to tackle this subject." She replied, taking a look at one of the scrolls. "What is all this about anyway?"

"…Blueblood's case." The mood in the room suddenly turned somber once Shining spoke. Causing Cadence to lower the scroll. "Oh…I see, anything new?"

"As a matter of fact, yes," He replied before levitating the letter Twilight sent. "Based on what Twily sent us, now I know what the murder weapon was, and based on its nature and properties, I have been able to map out when and possibly, how it happened."

"Really?" Cadence asked, intrigued by the findings as he nodded.

"Now that I know what caused the bleeding, I was able to discard ingested, and injected poisons, as well as a delayed reaction since the effect was nearly instantaneous. This all allowed for me to crunch the numbers and got me closer to the exact time of death, based on how dry his blood was in the bed."

He lifted the scroll he was writing on. "According to the reports I have, Blueblood used to have a strict sleeping schedule. Unless there was an event or party, he always went to bed at 10 pm and woke up at 8 am sharp without any exception to maximize his 'beauty sleep.' " He said, making air quotes, "That gives us a 10-hour window, BUT the killer knew his sleeping pattern and waited for the perfect moment to strike as well as work around the problem his weapon of choice had."

"You mean the Leech Tear?" Cadence wondered as she took a seat, now more invested in what her husband wanted to say.

"Correct. You see, this ointment can bleed a pony to death, but only if the victim is in a near-catatonic state because, if doing so while awake. The sensation of numbness, pain, and fear that produces the substance spikes the heart rate, which pumps more blood to counter the effect. The pharmacy that produces them corroborates this because that is how they design the product. It's to avoid overdose and teach those that abuse it."

"So that is why they used the agent to keep him asleep," Cadence theorized.

"Exactly, the killer needed to make sure he wouldn't wake up and knew exactly how to strike based on these two factors. The first one is that based on my math, and because the reaction would happen instantly, Blueblood was killed approximately between 3:30 am and 4:10 am, give or take. Additionally, because there weren't any witnesses and no gas found leaking or other staff members in the castle affected, no one entered his room during the time of the attack. The poison struck all on its own and cleanly dealt with him in approximately 30 minutes without any pony noticing, not even the victim himself, fooling even Princess Luna."

"So what are you saying? That they planted the poison in his room like some sort of time bomb?"

"That was my assumption too. However, I made a sweep of Blueblood's room and didn't find anything, not even particles of any bomb or some type of gadget that could aerosolized the Leech Tear—also factoring that the Leech Tears had a powerful odor on their own. According to Twilight, it will become odorless once fused with the rock, but anypony trying to plant them would have been quickly discovered. No, the substance had to have been created the same night Blueblood was killed."

"But how? You said it yourself. Nobody entered, and they didn't use any magic to do it. What if there was a bomb or a machine, and the killer returned and took it before you arrived? A month passed before you started the investigation."

"I accounted for that as well, but even it wouldn't matter how much of a perfectionist this pony is. They would have left some form of physical evidence behind. Burn or pressure marks wherever they had placed the machine would have been impossible to erase, especially if they used something to cover the smell. Trust me, having a sister like Twilight makes you good at spotting clues invisible to the naked eye, and not even Twilight would have been able to fool me completely, and she is the master when it comes to those kinds of things."

"You mean like hiding your Heart Warming Eve presents?" Cadence poked her husband with a smirk as Shining blushed and looked away, clearing his throat.

"A-Anyway, back to what I was saying, the killer must have used a method I haven't considered yet to ensure that they left no trace. No water, no pressure marks, no dampness in or on the walls, no magic, no nothing. I know they used something, but I can't figure out, they put the poison in his room in the middle of the night in a flash without anyone noticing. That is the final question I still don't know how to solve"

He pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed in melancholy, "But I do have enough evidence to pinpoint several prominent suspects."

"Shining you are not considering…"

"It's the only logical explanation. The killer knew the Prince's sleep pattern, how to create a silent and new type of weapon, and how to cover their tracks flawlessly. They also have a pretty good understanding of the castle staff and the layout of the place. No maid or butler could have performed this by themselves. Not even with training, they would have left sloppy marks. A hired hit-stallion couldn't have known this much of the castle's layout, even with the help of whoever paid them. If they knew this much, it would have been way easier and cleaner for them to reach the target themselves rather than paying someone else to do it. This can only mean one thing, a soldier is our culprit and not an ordinary one either. No, this was the job of a professional, one that knows their craft and plans for every single detail, almost to the same level of Twily."

Cadence sighed and looked down. "That reduces the list considerably but also makes this case more dangerous, Shining you don't think a friend of yours did it, right?"

"By the stars, I hope not, but with how things are, as much as it hurts me to admit, everyone has its breaking point."

Cadence smiled and grabbed his right hoof with her own "We will cross that bridge when we come to it, for now. You have done more than enough, dear."

Shining sighed and looked down before nodding a couple of times. "Yeah…yes, you are right. I'm so tired right now. I want to go to bed and not think about this for a while. Thanks, honey." He smiled at her and gave her a small peck on the lips before turning around and started heading to bed.

"I will be with you in just a moment," Cadence said as she retrieved a clean piece of parchment and ink and, using one of her feathers, started writing a letter to her aunt.

The next day

Going over a checklist on a scroll, the Prince waited patiently for a small entourage of soldiers requested by Princess Platinum to escort him throughout the city as he checked things off the list. An idea he wasn't precisely thrilled with since this was supposed to be a mission to make amends. Still, Blueblood couldn't argue with the concept and necessity of projecting an air of royalty while proving his worth. Not to mention the extra help transporting some packages he secured some weeks prior.

As the group of 5 guards led by the twin bat ponies started approaching, Blueblood took notice of how in addition to the guards, Mist Night and Clean Breeze were among the group. The latter carried a small wooden box using her magic to levitate it in front of her.

"Good morning, everypony" Blueblood greeted the group with a slight bow which they reciprocated.

"Your highness," The entourage responded in stereo as the maids took a step forwards toward the Prince. "I have to say, although you are more than welcome, I didn't expect that you two would be accompanying us, ladies."

"We are the maids under your care and employ, your highness" Mist was quick to point out, "Our duties were and are to accompany and serve wherever you go. We were re-assigned until you were ready to have us back."

"May I add, this is possibly the first time in all my life I'm looking forward to working with you, prince." Clean interjected with a small measure of excitement, making the group regard her for a moment, surprised by her outburst. Mist, in particular, face hoofed from embarrassment alone. The Prince could almost hear her mutter "rookies" under her breath. Clearing her throat and with a light blush on her checks, Breeze spoke once more, "I-in any case, this is for you, your highness." she passed him the wooden box, which upon opening contained a tiny silver chain necklace with what appeared to be Luna's cutie mark on the base of it with a purple gem at its center "Your aunt Luna requested that you wear this during your outing."

"Yes, she told me about this, thanks Breezie," He raised his chin and let Breeze clasp the necklace around his throat before stepping back so Blueblood can address the two maids again. "It's good to have you aboard, ladies. Perhaps this trip will be enlightening to you as well" He smiled, causing the two to look at one another, slightly confused by that statement as he went on to address the soldiers.

"Alright, everypony, listen up, I'm not going to sugar coat things. This will not be your typical stroll in the park. As ironic as that might be with one of the stops being in a park. No, our mission today is to clean up all the messes I made in the past in Canterlot. I'm going to the places that I affected the most all over the city. It should be clear that I'm not exactly mister popular to the ponies we will see, perhaps excluding Mist Night and Clean Breeze here. These are the ponies that hate me the most and possibly will be the most vocal about it as well."

"You have nothing to worry about, sir." Garra, all of a sudden, stepped up with a smirk while puffing her chest out. "Your safety is more than assured. If anypony tries to harm you. We will make sure to make an example out of them."

"I appreciate the energy, but maybe tone down the implied use of deadly force," Blueblood replied calmly. "That goes for all of you, so listen up. Tense would be an understatement for the situation we are about to face, these ponies are angry at me, and for good reasons, they have the right to voice their discontent and vent out their built-up frustration. In fact, I'm counting on it so they can let everything out and allow them to finally express what years and years of me being a jerk put them through emotionally, mentally, and maybe even physically. I only ask for you to exercise restraint and do your duty if necessary as you were trained. ONLY and IF the situation escalates and becomes untenable. We are not there to arrest ponies for speaking their mind. Just to make amends, is that clear?"

"Sir, yes, sir!" They all replied in stereo

"Good," He nodded and looked at the sisters. "You two are going to be my shadows once more, but that doesn't mean I want you to remain mute. If you think I'm crossing a line or have any advice during the conversation, I will gladly listen." He smiled and put his hoof on Garra's shoulder pauldron as she looked down in embarrassment since she jumped the gun. "Don't feel bad, Garra. It was an honest mistake. I'm sure you two are going to do the uniform proud."

"Thank you, sir" She nodded, mollified yet still a bit embarrassed for the situation as Blueblood turned to regard his maids. "Are you sure that you will be ok? This is not going to be a picnic, and as part of the list, I'm sure there are things you would like to say to me too."

"Well, if you wish to makes amends, maybe a free trip to the spa could help speed…" Breeze started before a purple aura closed her snout as Mist spoke up.

"Don't worry about us, your highness, we are fine. We have already left the past behind us," She confirmed with a smile, not letting Breeze speak. The Prince regarded this exchange with a raised eyebrow but ultimately decided to let it go, deciding that it was not his place to press further.

"Understood, in that case, everypony let's clean some messes."

Without anything else to say, they all left the castle and embarked on a chariot to the city.

Celestia watched the group depart with a pinch of worry and anguish from a window above as a newly opened letter rested on her desk.
> List Of Atonements (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After finishing reading Cadence's letter, Luna looked up to regard her sister with neutrality "As alarming as this revelation is, we can at the very least take solace in how it reduces the number of suspects, sister. By a large margin too."

"Part of me doesn't want to believe it, but the level of complexity this killer used? To be able to even fool your nightly vigil? I can't help but wonder what this criminal is capable of or how long this assassination was being planned."

"A subject for a future conversation, sister. For now, with this, we have almost all the pieces of this puzzle. We know the what, the where, and the when. They killed Blueblood. The only pieces remaining are the how and who. And the list of suspects now grows short." She said with determination. "For now, focus on your duties, sister. Today's royal court is about to begin. We will discuss this further when we start with the interviews. In fact, before we begin those, give me another day. I will take another look at our nephew's chambers for clues. This letter gave me a couple of theories I wish to test before we do anything else." Luna looked to the side, intrigued before taking the letter. Both sisters then bid farewell to one another and went their separate ways. Luna, not noticing how, before leaving, Celestia stopped and held her head in pain briefly.

At that moment, in another part of Canterlot.

Taking a deep breath, the prince looked up and saw the first stop on his list, a place that, according to what his maids had told him, he had hurt direct and indirectly in the past—Canterlot East Orphanage. Of course, every one of his stops would be tense and not pretty in the slightest, but he knew in his heart that this one, in particular, would be one of, if not the, hardest.

"Are you sure you want to start with this one, sir?" Breeze asked in concern while gesturing at the looming building. "I know you want to make amends, but we could start with something smaller, like the shopping district!" She suggested after thinking briefly, "The only thing you did there was buy out their entire stock once a month, making some business owners struggle for a couple of days. I bet just an apology and a storage unit for supplies would be enough." She suggested enthusiastically.

"I appreciate the concern, Breezie, and I have to admit, that doesn't sound like a bad idea. But as you said, those are the ponies that I hurt the least. If I want to make things right, I need to be fair, and the Sisters of Mercy are the ones I hurt the most. These are the ponies that suffered the worst of the past me. The least I can do is make them my top priority. I am starting by seeing how they are fairing and will try to find a way to help them as quickly and as much as I can. It the least I can do." He answered, steeling his resolve as the chariot stopped in front of the building in question.

At first glance, the orphanage didn't look any different from any other, a simple three-floor building with a playground connected to his right side and a parking lot on his left. It seemed old, some walls were worn from age, and the playground seemed to have some rust on it upon closer inspection, but overall, the place seemed fine.

Ok, so it doesn't seem like they are in desperate need of money. That's good. The prince thought he kept feeling a growing shame as the group approached the main entrance where an old earth pony mare stood. She wore a thick pair of bottle glasses, making her eyes look unnaturally large. A whistle linked to a necklace hung from her neck next to a pendant shaped into the form of Celestia's cutie mark. She appeared to be waiting for them and made no effort whatsoever to hide her animosity towards the prince as she kept glaring at him. "Sister Kinship? Thank you for having us."

"Blueblood, I was wondering if you would come. You just cost me 50 bits," She replied dryly while intensifying her glare. This statement caused the twins to tense up and start reaching for their weapons.

"I understand that you have your reservations about me, sister and I feel horrible for the way I treated you, but I'm ready to make amends and see how I can help you with the orphanage."

"The Sisters of Mercy don't need the help of the likes of you. So why don't you go back to that pompous chariot of yours, take your marching band and get out of my pl…"

Before she could say anything else, a cyan aura forced her mouth shut. A scream of terror soon followed this as the guard jumped into action and surrounded the prince. Just in time to see a second, younger and slightly chubby unicorn nun with cyan fur and dark blue mane arranged into a bun and held in place by two pencils lept out of the entrance and latched on to Sister Kinship's back and neck in fear. "Ah! Sister Hard Ruler was only joking, your Highness! Hehe, just one big joke, that is all." She replied with a nervous laugh as sister Kinship struggled in vain to escape the unicorn's grasp, causing the group to blink a couple of times in both surprise and confusion.

Once the now identified Hard Ruler stops struggling and the new mare calmed down enough, she looked at the group again and smiled with as much as much calm as she could while keeping the older mare in a headlock. "Good day Prince Blueblood. I am the real Sister Kinship, and on behalf of the Sisters of Mercy, we thank you for your time and assistance in our hour of need. RIGHT RULER?" Kinship released the older mare with a smile and a glare. Clenching her teeth, the older mare only huffed and looked away. "Mares these days, not a single one of them have a speak of self-respect. Where the heck went the good old days when a mare had a pair of tits?!" She mumbled before turning around and re-entering the orphanage.

"Not one of my fans, I take it?" Blueblood asked with a sigh as he watched the mare leave before looking at Sister Kinship, who let out a long-suffering sigh of her own and nodded gently before looking at him.

"Please don't hold it against her, your Highness. Hard Ruler is from a different generation, and she is well past due for retirement. But even if I force the issue, that mare would absolutely refuse to leave. For fear that you…that other ponies might try and demolish this place or turn it into a country club or something like that." She remarked while looking at the building once more.

"I understand. I can't blame her, to be honest. That sounds like something the past me would have done, and something tells me I haven't done enough to help with your finances as well?"

"What? Oh no, no, no, your Highness, despite some hardships here and there, the orphanage is doing great. The support of the city and the crown has helped it stay afloat, and we couldn't be more grateful for that."

"But?" The prince looked at her with a raised eyebrow, thinking that there was more to the story she was telling. The nun tried to play off his concerns. Still, she slowly found herself unable to lie under his concerned gaze, like a force was compelling her to speak the truth under the spotlight, making her feel like a filly trying to hide a lousy grade from her father, as he was patiently waiting for her to do the right thing.

Finally cracking, Kinship looked down, "…but you haven't made things any easier either. With your expensive parties, shopping sprees, and constant borrowing from the royal treasury. Things like restoration, food, equipment, and even retirement funds had moved forwards at a snail's pace. The place itself is holding up, thank Celestia, but making improvements or giving our golden employees the retirement and money they deserve has been almost impossible because of that. This is why from time to time, we have tried to appeal to your kindness, wishing for you to recover and return the bits we feel you took." She finally confessed, not entirely sure why she was airing so much information yet. The more she looked at him, the less desire she had to hide anything.

Part of her was expecting him to yell or get angry by her indirectly calling him a thief and was preparing for him to lash out. Instead, the prince only placed his hoof onto the shoulder of the nun. "Thank you, Sister Kinship" She looked back at him in surprise, only for that surprise to morph into bewilderment at the sight of the prince smiling calmly at her. "That is exactly what I needed to hear."

"Y...your highness?" Kinship inquired, confused at how calmly he was taking the situation. His smile somehow reminded her of Celestia's for some reason.

It is as if the Princess is right next to him.

"If I'm going to repair the damage I have caused and atone for my mistakes. I first need to know exactly what my past self did, right?"

"Ah, I suppose?"

"Excellent, in that case, why don't we go to your office and talk about numbers? I can't promise that I can fix all the issues right away, but at the very least, I can make the first step into doing so, no? But for now, let's discuss exactly what needs funding the most."

"S-sure, right this way" She stepped aside and invited him over as he walked past her into the building. The nun is still slightly confused about what was going on until Breeze approached her. "I know, it leaves you speechless, right? Don't worry. You get used to it." She chuckled, helping Kinship snap out of her trance, and she quickly followed the prince inside.

"Sir, would it be alright if I asked something of Sister Kinship?" Mist asked, approaching the prince and earning his attention.

"Sure, go ahead, Mist." Blueblood nodded and stepped aside so the maid could speak up. "Sister Kinship, if I may ask. If things were bad, why didn't you file a complaint or a petition to the mayor? Or even the princesses themselves? They would have listened."

In response, the nun only sighed and looked forward. "We tried but honestly. We didn't exactly have a solid hoof on which to stand. The crown is already supporting us way more than necessary. How could we have approached the princesses and kept asking for more bits? Not to mention that the prince kept weaseling his way around to keep getting what he wanted. There was little we could have done back then."

The prince remained quiet as he heard this but hung his head low in a mix of shame and anger at the revelation. Was he really that self-absorbed? What else did the original Blueblood do?

After they visited the orphanage, the rest of the stops went by without any significant events, much to the relief of the prince as he found out that much of the damage he caused mainly was due to him finding legal ways to embezzle funds from the royal treasury, and getting what he wanted. Much to the displeasure of the ones that needed to work themselves to the bone to meet his ridiculous expectations.

"Seriously?! I kept buying ten sets of the same outfit once a week?!" the prince asked a tailor in disbelief as his group made their way to return all the jewelry, clothes, and fancy decorations he has bought over the years. Something that kept baffling him, since, despite all of his shopping sprees, his room seemed oddly minimalist, except for a portrait of himself here and there and some minor decorations, everything looked pretty empty, confusing Blueblood. Where did all his purchases go? This lasted right until Mist revealed that he kept rotating styles in his room, explaining why he kept buying stuff. He had the vast majority of his possessions stored away in a secure storage unit. He was between themes at the moment. All of this done with the excuse of 'My room must say glamorous and reflect high culture in ALL of its forms.'

With a sigh, he was fully intended to return what was essentially a hoarder's stash back to the city where hopefully it could all be given to somepony that needed those things more. Yet, as he spoke with his usual tailor, Blueblood realized that things weren't that simple, as the stallion in question nodded a couple of times, "And I only used the finest of fabrics your highness, nothing but the best," The tailor mentioned with a nervous laugh.

"Yes, that...that is just impractical. I simply must return all of those copies. Right now, those things are just collecting dust. Keeping them in storage would be an insult to you, your craft, and all the hard work you put into making all of those ensembles."

As soon as he said that, the shop went oddly quiet, save for the small chuckle of the tailor, which slowly grew into a full manic cackle before fading into silence. The tailor then began to speak, "For fifteen years, I have been breaking my back to fulfill your ridiculous demands, working all night, risking my health, and almost using all my fabric so that you can have your precious wardrobe. I missed my colts birthdays, my marriage is in the gutter, and I even had ulcers from overwork. All this, and now you came here and demanded that I take my hard work back!!" He yelled, completely livid as he launched himself at the prince only to be tackled and restrained by the guards. "You insufferable piece of dung! You think that you can fix everything by returning what you bought! The mountain of cloth you are tossing me under will overstock me. It will be my ruin!"

"Please, sir, calm down. Maybe we could find some sort of alternative arrangement? What if you make a discount offer or alter the sizes so other stallions could purchase it?" The prince offered, trying to de-escalate the situation.

"GET OUT!" the tailor demanded, struggling to get free of the clutches of the guards. "You arrogant twit! You're lucky that your toy soldiers are here; if I get my hooves on you, I swear I will…"

"THAT will be quite enough!" The prince demanded attention while glaring at the startled tailor catching him off guard by the sudden anger in the prince's eyes. "We are grown adults, aren't we, sir? AREN'T WE?"

He questioned, making the stallion flinch and nod rapidly.

"I'm sorry that I have been a large contributor to your life's misery until now. You have every right to lash out, but threats are where I draw the line. I hear and understand what you are saying. I'm not going to demand to take your creations back. It is completely your choice, but I will not let a good pony throw his life away in a fit of rage. Now my guards are going to let you go. You are going to take a deep breath, calm down, and will ask for us to leave RESPECTFULLY." He instructed, signaling the guards to release the stallion, who slowly sank to his knees on the floor, still slightly startled as the prince raised an eyebrow, waiting for his reply.

"Please, just leave," He whispered dejectedly.

"I can't undo what I have already done, but I will do what I can to make things better going forward." The prince promises while offering a slight look of pity before turning around. "Let's go everypony"

As they marched, Garra approached the prince. "For what it's worth, that was incredible, sir. I have goosebumps right now. Why didn't you open with that when he started ranting your Highness?"

"As I said, they have their right to vent their frustrations. But threatening the crown? That will ruin their image. I will not have anypony known as the one that promised to kill a member of the royal family. I'm not that familiar with the law, but I didn't want to risk him getting a day in jail for lashing at an authority figure."

"You have a big heart, sir," Daga complimented. "But I'm with my sister. Maybe it would be better if you do that more often. As a prince, there is an image you need to maintain as well."

The prince nodded as they headed to their next stop, as he mentally sighed, fearing that this or the Sisters of Mercy's reaction would keep repeating.

This is going to be a long day. I know it will be.


Back at the castle


As she kept scanning the room with her eyes, the Princess of the night searched for anything that might stand out. Any clue that Shining might have missed, quite literally flipping the room inside out.

Come on, give me something, there must be. What is amiss? What am I not seeing here?

After giving up searching for any clues in the drawers and the bed before starting to tear into the decorations, she questioned herself until her search drew her to a set of armor in the far left corner of the room. Armor that, after it was moved slightly, emitted the almost imperceptible sound of water sloshing back and forth. So tiny and brief was the sound that any other pony could have easily missed it. Slowly dismantling the set, Luna finally came across what she was looking for. Two small pools of standing water hiding in both of its frontal sabatons.

I got you. Using her magic and a beaker, Luna extracted a small sample before teleporting it away. Putting everything back together and taking a step back, the Princess stared intently at the suit of armor. So here is where the weapon was hidden? But how did they make it work at the right time? She hummed in thought before squinting her eyes. She found a dim ray of light striking on the visor of the armor, surprising her immediately.

"What the...?" Getting closer, she could trace the straight line of light starting at the armor and traveling until she reached the window, where she found a hole the size of a nail's head in the glass. The opening was so clean it didn't even leave a crack in the pane. It was a perfect shot.

Her eyes widened in realization, and her suspicions were soon confirmed after inspecting the helmet's interior. Right in the back of the helm was a dent of the same size as the hole and the dry glue of duct tape on top of it, helping her piece together what had transpired.

There is no magic trace, so it wasn't a spell. The shot was precise and clean, aiming straight at the head, leaving no trail after impact, and creating the reaction afterward. Something that hit and then disappeared after use without the aid of magic. The object was carrying the second agent, an ice arrow! 

She looked back at the window and replayed the scenario in her head. At 3:30 am, the killer shoots an arrow made of leech tears frozen in water, straight at this room and right into the armor. Said armor had previously been prepped with dust inside it, which burst and spread at the impact. After that, it was only a matter of time until the arrow melted and induced the chemical reaction. Turning the armor into a fog machine and sealing my nephew's fate.

Existing in the room, Luna didn't waste time in calling for her guards, who stood to attention when summoned.

"Go find out where exactly my nephew purchased that set of armor. Also, please get me a list of every single individual that went into his room a month before his accident. I also want this year's weather schedule for Canterlot."

"Yes, ma'am" They saluted and went to fulfill their orders, leaving Luna alone as she headed for her room to continue her investigation until she found her sister and Platinum standing in front of her. The latter with a stoic expression while Celestia, even if calm and collected, looked like she just saw a ghost, giving Luna a pretty good idea of what was happening.

"Luna, do you have a moment?"

With a nod, Luna approached her sister. "What is the matter, sister? Something on your mind?" She subtlety asked, looking around, wary of any possible listeners

"Something like that, yes, I just got a bit nostalgic about years past and wished to talk with you and aunt Platinum about it," Celestia replied, silently confirming Luna's suspicions.

"Of course, in fact, that sounds wonderful since I have some things to discuss as well. Recently I have been getting a tad nostalgic myself," Luna commented as the whole group headed to Celestia's chambers to speak in private.
> Retrospective Chats (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I know this doesn't make up for all the things that your squad had to endure, General Waller, but I hope that with this, things will start to improve again." Blueblood handed a check to a bulky earth pony with silver mane and tail with black fur. Despite his advanced age showing on his face, the general resembled a more wild Nordic horse from his original world based upon how huge he looked, his muscles easily rivaling Baked Bean and the collections of scars spread all over his body, one near his snout revealing a small part of his inner jaw, completed to give the pony in question a particularly intimidating air. The Generals countenance was not helped with how he kept glaring at the prince. His armor looked old and with scratches and dings showing how it had seen lots of hard use, and his cutie mark displayed a looming brick wall with a tower behind it.

Yanking the check from the prices hooves, Waller didn't make any effort to hide the hatred he held for the prince as Blueblood remained stone-faced at this display. "You have a lot of balls coming here. After all, you've made us go through brat." Waller accused before standing up from his desk. Garra and Daga stepped forward to take up positions on either side of the prince.

"When I was but a colt, the royal guard used to mean something in Equestria. Sure, we were rough around the edges at times, but we always got the job done. The citizens respected us. The princess could sleep peacefully at night, knowing we patrolled the streets, and any hooligan thinking he could beat the law was quickly reminded of how wrong they were. And then you came around." He blew out a hot breath over his face, "With your sardonic excuses and your whining on how we should be doing OUR job—taking away our resources and forcing us to make budget cuts. Do you have ANY idea of how many good soldiers I was forced to dismiss because we couldn't pay their salary? DO YOU?!"

"I'm sorry, but I can't fix what has already happened."

"Sure you're sorry, that is why you're doing this, right? He waves the check in front of the prince. "You think all the problems you caused can be magically fixed by throwing bits at them, don't you?!"

"You want me to take my money back?" The prince inquired while regarding Waller with a raised eyebrow. The general paused for only a moment before sitting down and filing the check away. "You make me sick. You want to make up for turning the royal guard into a laughing stock? Get the hell out of my office and never come back again!"

The prince nodded and gave the general a respectful bow before leaving with his group, though Waller wasn't done as he addresses the guards he came with.

"How do you look at yourself in the mirror? Do you have no shame in being that pompous bastards show pets?"

That made the twins stop in their tracks, alerting the prince as he looked at them in worry, yet the two remain looking forward.

"The royal guard makes a sworn oath to protect Equestria, its citizens, and its royal family," Garra replied calmly before they turned as one and eyed the general cooley. "There is no shame in ensuring the protection of the Prince General." Daga finished as they both turned forward once more and escorted the prince outside the room, leaving the barracks on the far east side of Canterlot.

"Well, that is a way to wrap things up," Blueblood sighed sarcastically as he looked down dejectedly.

By the end of the day, the prince was emotionally and physically drained from having to deal with the same reaction over and over again, listening to how his previous self had ruined so many lives, he only wanted to go home and rest for a while, but he knew his guilt would make it next to impossible for him to sleep peacefully. Sensing his distress, Mist suggested that the group take a small break and enjoy the food of a local cafe she knew well and that was close by. Not finding a reason to refuse, the prince agreed, and soon everyone took a seat and waited for their order.

"Alright, how in Tartarus am I going to solve this mess!" The prince exclaimed in exasperation as he leaned on the table with his hooves holding his head, "All those poor souls, no wonder I was so hated before. How can a single pony have this kind of tunnel vision?"

"Don't stress yourself too much. Sir" Mist tried to comfort him, bringing the coffee and donuts for the entire group. "These things take time, but for what it's worth, you are doing great so far. The money you gave those ponies in need will help them at the end of the day, I'm sure of it. Also, stopping all those insane shopping sprees and ridiculous demands will put at ease the minds of those you wronged."

"Yes, but it feels like a hollow victory. I mean, I'm happy I finally found a way to spend all that extra money I had on something more worthy and cross off my list of all of these issues I needed to fix. It's nice knowing that they will not have to break their backs anymore but, I feel like I'm just throwing bits at the problem instead of fixing it." He observed dejectedly as he picked a donut and took a bite.

"To be fair, what you mostly did back then was taking money from those that needed the most, so returning it and ceasing with a life of excess…." Clean Breeze pointed out, moving her frontal hooves up and down like a balance "…kind of balance it out. Sure there were hardships as a result, but as far as wrongdoings, you are pretty much in the clear now, sir."

"Ms. Breeze is right, your highness." Garra interjected, "It's good to feel empathy and to wish to make amends, but you can't let goodwill toward your neighbor become an obsession over little details, sir. Not everyone will like you. That is a fact of life. Accepting it and moving on is the healthy way to go."

"Thank you, ladies, for that…that helped, and I hear what you are saying, I do. I only wish that there could be something else I could do for them. Something to prevent this from repeating itself, and in the process make their life a little bit easier, that is all."

Daga chuckled and shook her head. "I completely agree, your highness, but let's be real here. It's not like you could arrange some charity event and use your position to start a donation boot for extra bits for the needed, right?" She asks sarcastically, intending it as a joke, yet the prince froze the second he heard that and slowly turned to look at his guard.

"Can you repeat that?"

"What? A donation boot for the needy?" Daga repeated with a raised eyebrow.

"That is it!"

"Sir, I was being sarcastic."

"I know, but…but you might be onto something," Blueblood exclaimed in excitement as he started to formulate a plan. "An external savings fund ready to help when improvements need extra bits! Daga, you are a genius!"

"What? No, sir, sir! I think you are missing the point here. I meant it as a joke. You've done enough. It's time to cross the issue off the list and move into the next one," Daga insisted, yet the prince was already making plans. "Sir, please stop. You don't need to do a charity event. Do you even know how to construct one?!"

"No, but I know how to bring investors to a cause and the ponies for the job. Thank you so much Daga, you just gave me the idea I needed."

"But sir…"

"I know it was just a joke, but good ideas sometimes happen like that. You don't need to worry about anything. This will start out humble. Think of it as an experiment to see how it holds up. Naturally, you are all invited. I will not dismiss or diminish your role in developing this idea. For now, let us head back to the castle after we are done here. There are letters I need to send and favors to ask." He proclaims in a better mood.

The group thought it over but ultimately decided to concede and nodded. "As you wish, your highness," Breeze stated, still unsure but willing to give that a try.


At that moment in Celestia chambers


"A sister, all this time, and neither of us knew we had an older sister all along!" Celestia kept pacing in shock while taking the occasional glance at Luna. All while Platinum did her best to calm the Solar Princess down.

"It was quite the shock for me too, Tia, such a horrible fate to befall our sibling. I pray her sanity has survived the test of time or that she has been asleep all these years." Luna looked down in worry at the thought of the terror that being conscious during this ordeal would bring.

Stopping in place, Celestia turned to look at her aunt for answers. "Is there no way we could use the elements to free her auntie? I mean, their magic is well known to do impossible feats, like facing down chaos itself."

"I'm afraid this is beyond even the elements, dear. Your sister is a prisoner by the laws of fate itself. She exists outside existence itself. Neither chaos nor harmony can go against that. As illogical or impossible as that might sound, that is why not even Discord is aware of her existence," Platinum confessed. "I'm afraid the only thing to do is keep chipping away at this curse by remembering. The more pieces you gather, the closer your sister is to being free."

"And exactly what did you see, Tia? Was I there?" Luna wondered with a raised eyebrow making Celestia sigh and look out through her balcony and into the blue sky. "You were, but I highly doubt you were able to retain any memories. You were just a newborn back then." Celestia informed, recalling her memory while rubbing her head from the pain. "Even my memory is foggy. I saw shapes of alicorns. Our sister was carrying you. We were in front of two older alicorns. One of them hugged us I…I think they were our parents." Her eyes suddenly widened in realization. "It coming back. I think I remember now…."

All of a sudden, everything in the room faded away. Celestia found herself as a little filly, no older than five, maybe even four, wrapped in the right-wing of her older sister. At the same time, the alicorn in question held a newborn Luna with one of her hooves, as baby Luna was comfortable sleeping while sucking her right hoof. Looking ahead of her, Celestia could see the silhouettes of two older alicorns, royals by the regalia. They were wearing, cluing her that they were a king and queen.

"…Take care of your sisters Terra…." The stallion suddenly spoke up.

"I will dad. I promise I will make sure to teach them about us, about what our kingdom was once." The alicorn next to Celestia informed the elder pair with conviction as the queen teared up and brought the fillies into a hug "…my little fillies, my dear treasures, never forget your parents love you…."

"M…Mom?!" Celestia exclaimed in alarm before returning to the room and hyperventilating as Platinum did her best to calm her down

"Sister, what happened? You zoned out for a second there." Luna inquired as Celestia recovered her breath "T...Terra"

"What?"

"I remember more clearly now. Our sister's name was Terra, Terra the mare of the land, we were the fillies of a king and queen alicorn, but they sent us away. Terra was supposed to teach us about them. They…they were saying goodbye." Celestia looked back at Platinum. "Our home before any of this happened. Something happened to our birth home, right?"

For her part, Platinum only sighed in resignation and looked down, nodding once more. " A horrible attack that left you as the last survivors of your race, and if not for the ruler's last act of defiance against their enemy, most likely Equestria would have followed suit."

"Alicorn race? You mean to tell us that there was a time when an entire kingdom…."

"…composed of alicorns lived in a society no different than another tribe of ponies?" Luna started, but Platinum finished her question before she had the time. "Yes, that is exactly what happened. Yet unlike you, they didn't have that godlike power you and your sister inherited when we took you in."

"What do you mean?" Celestia pressed on, intrigued for what she had to say, yet her aunt shook her head and raised her hoof.

"A story for another time. At the moment, you need to keep the focus on what is important." Platinum then turned to Luna. "And you also had something you wanted to tell us, right Luna?"

"Indeed, but unlike what I just heard, this isn't something groundbreaking. I merely confirmed the suspicions I had after reading Cadence's letter. I discovered where and how they used the murder weapon, and I had been issuing instructions to our guards to find out more about it. A suit of armor acting as decoration was the implement all along. The killer must have hidden the sleeping dust inside the helmet and then, at the right hour, shot an ice arrow containing the leech tear, turning the suit into an improvised fog machine. It's as Shining Armor predicted. This was a precise and well-thought-out plan. Whoever did it knew even when the changing of the guards would occur and placed themselves in a brief blind spot. By the trajectory of the shoot and due to how Bluebloods room is facing directly at the cliff in Canterlot, it means only one thing, the killer needed to be airborne the moment they struck."

"Cloud walking spells would have left them stuck on a cloud and easy to spot, the wing spell consumes a lot of energy, and combining it with cloud walking would have left them exhausted and at borderline risk of mana burn. A levitation spell would have exposed them for how bright they would become especially against the night sky, not to mention they would have left residual magic. So only a pegasus or a species capable of flight naturally would have been able to do it without arousing suspicion." Celestia deduced

"And by knowing so much the layout of the castle, that discards the last one," Platinum added.

"So a royal guard pegasus," Celestia sighed and shook her head in disappointment, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Our memories, Bluebloods case, his upcoming meetings, and Tempo and Shooter's schemes. I don't even know where or how to begin with all of these problems," She listed off in exhaustion, thinking on how many things were falling onto her plate all at once.

"By sharing them with me, sister," Luna replied, putting her right hoof on Celestia's shoulder, "We can divide the workload between the two of us like we always have done and discuss what should take priority to solve."

"I couldn't have said it better myself. Luna" Platinum nodded with pride at her nieces. "Let me put you at ease with one. These added memories are beyond your control. The only thing you can do is wait for them to appear in their own time and piece together each fragment that comes back."

"Exactly, and we promised our nephew that we will respect his wishes and let him resolve his upcoming obligations all by his lonesome. I arranged for a practice meeting to allay our fears, Tia. Don't worry." Luna stopped her sister before she could complain about the prospect. "That leaves us with the attempted regicide and his former allies' schemes. So I propose we split the chores. Let me deal with the murder case, sister. I already have an idea of how to continue with that. Besides, you're worried about putting a stop to whatever Tempo is plotting."

Celestia thought it over before nodding. "Ok, Luna, let's do that. We will keep an eye on the other issues but maintain our focus on what needs our attention immediately."

"And if any of you require any additional help," Platinum caught their attention once more. "Know that your auntie is always here for you."

"Thanks, auntie," The sisters replied simultaneously.

"Well, I better rest a while before my shift starts again. See you at dinner, Tia."

"Rest well, Lulu." Their sisters said their goodbyes, and Luna left to rest, tired from being up this late. When Platinum's time to follow suit, though, she stopped at the door frame and looked to Celestia once more.

"Celly, before I leave, I should mention that Ms. Tempo's plan had a solid foundation." She began, catching Celestia off guard. "I know what you are going to say, and I agree. These past couple of days, I have felt like there is something…off about that mare with her sudden mood swings and all, but I spoke with her, and it turns out she seems legitimately concerned for her godchild's well-being. Something I could relate to. I agree that there is something else going on there, but maybe we could consider her proposal?"

"You want me to agree in making the wonderbolts a military force?" Celestia clarified, barely containing the outrage she was feeling.

"No, of course not. I'm just saying that maybe giving them some defensive training and just a bit of military strategy. Just in case their services are needed. That is all."

By all the stars, she is starting to sound like Spitfire

"Think about it, and don't reject it out of hoof simply because it came from that mare. You two have a bad history. Would you do that for me, sunshine?"

With a practiced smile, Celestia nodded. "I will mull over the idea, auntie. You are right. Maybe there could be something to rescue out of her proposal."

"That is all I want, that and for you to listen with an open mind when you hear her idea."

"Will do, auntie" Platinum nodded in satisfaction and left the room, allowing Celestia to let go of the breath she didn't know was holding once the door was closed.

What is going on? My aunt too? How could she convince her? She saw the birth of that team, for pony's sake! Her gaze hardened as she looks straight out the balcony once more. Crossfire Tempo. I might not know what is going on or how you managed to sway Spitfire and my aunt to this idea of yours. But I promise I will find out precisely what your whole scheme is and put an end to it before it even starts.



That Evening At Jet Set and Upper Crust's house


"Good job, everypony, that was magnificent. I quite literally shed tears in our last session." Scarlet praised the group as she finished writing down the scene before putting the book away ending their session. "I must say, I don't believe there is anything else to teach you, Jet and Crust. You have come such a long way! I will be more than happy to speak with your guardian first thing in the morning and recommend your releases as soon as possible!" She told them with a big smile, "Until then, ta-ta!"

Taking a bottle of water, Jet took a gulp when he felt a paw poking at his shoulder and when he looked to his left, he saw Velvet standing next to him with a smile. "You have come a long way, Jet. Scarly is right, by the way. That last scene in the lost temple felt authentic. You truly felt like a brave explorer ready to defend your crew from a hungry dragon."

"Thanks" They then heard a huff not too far from them and looking to their right, they saw Uru taking her own bottle of water. "Too bad the director stopped it there. I would have liked to see how much of that bravery lasted."

"Name the place and time, Uri," Jet replied with a smirk catching the dragon's attention as she smiled back. "The colt has grown a pair, careful with what you propose, Jet. I just might take you on." She half-joked, half-warned, as they both shared a chuckle until Velvet caught their attention once more by clearing her throat and Jet, notices a faint blush on her face. "Yeah anyway, for how things are going, it's clear that you will be released real soon, so I was wondering if you like…" She starts to play with her bottle of water "…I don't know, maybe you and Crust would like to grab a cup of coffee or something?" She says with a small degree of embarrassment catching the two by surprise and then slight anger from part of Uru. "Hey there, kitty cat, don't go ahead of yourself. If anyone is asking them out, it's me!" She growled out in anger as their discussion continued, with Jet trying to calm the two women.

Not too far away, Scarlet stood by, and subtlety took notes with a smile and a sense of accomplishment. Turning to her right, she could see how Upper Crust was having a similar conversation with Feral and Roxy, although theirs seemed calmer.

Oh, how I love it when a plan comes together. No evil-doer can escape the power of love, don't fight it, my friends. Just let it help you see the error of your ways and awaken the desire to improve and change your habits. I told you I will help you find members for your new herd and let no pony ever say that I don't keep my promises.

Turning to leave, she allows the group to have their privacy as she walked back home but not before stopping to look at the castle. Just wait a little longer. My prince, love will soon be in the air. She smirked malevolently, licking her lips as she continued walking, as her shadow starts to cackle silently. Independent of her movements.
> Noble Proposal (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gazing through his balcony, the prince kept looking at the starry night sky in silent contemplation as his maids finished preparing a table in the dining room. Set out with an assortment of pastries, a teapot filled with jade tea, and five sets of cups, napkins, and spoons, as well as chairs for the guest, the Prince was patiently waiting. "It always the waiting, isn't it?" The prince called out, gaining the attention of his maids.

"Excuse me, your highness?" Mist asked while looking up at him.

"The hardest part of any presentation, meeting, or evaluation. Basically, anything that has a waiting period. The time before the event is always the tensest of all." Blueblood turned around and entered the room to address both of his maids. "I know I was exaggerating a little here, and this is more like a proposal for a harmless experiment, but the idea of going back to meeting the noble class outside of a party or a duel… it's somehow nerve-racking." He confessed with a sigh as he looked down until he felt a hoof fall on his right shoulder, making him look up at Mist, who smiled at him.

"You will be fine, your highness. As you said, this is hardly anything major to worry about in the first place. This is just a couple of rich ponies having a tea party at night and doing some brainstorming. What is the worst that can happen? They say no and counteroffer with another idea, so you see? Everything will be fine."

"Thanks, Misty."

At that moment, there was a knock on the door, followed by Garra stepping inside with a bow. "Your highness, your guests have arrived."

"Thank you, Garra. Please send them in." Blueblood instructed. With a nod, she departed, followed quickly by the maids, leaving him briefly alone.

It's just a chat, nothing more.

Calming himself down enough to receive his guests, the prince put on the practiced, calm smile Luna had taught him. Entering the room and followed by the bat twins were Fancy Pants, his wife Fleur De Lis, Scarlet Lips, and a chubby, tall unicorn stallion with bright yellow fur and a long brown mane, beard, and tail combed in a sophisticated and slightly poofy manner. He had a monocle in his left eye, a formal green vest, and a red overcoat on top of it, hiding his cutie mark.

"Greetings everypony, I'm so glad that all of you could join me for the evening." The prince addressed the group as his guards and maids moved into position, the latter waiting to serve the tea while the twins stood guard in the corners of the room.

"For you, Blueblood? Anytime…anywhere," Scarlet replied in a slightly flirty tone.

"It was our pleasure, your highness," Fleur replied for her and her husband, who seemed slightly on edge for some reason. "Although it was a bit surprising that you called for us in particular, especially since we could have done this during the party on Friday."

"Indeed, something tells me this isn't exactly just a social outgoing, so out with it, what exactly are you plotting Blueblood?" The final stallion asked tersely with a raised eyebrow.

"I will answer all your questions in a moment, Mayor Grinds. For now, why don't you join me at the table." The prince replied politely as he went and sat on a chair with the rest of the group. Soon after, the rest followed his example, and the maids served them each a cup of tea. Everyone helped themselves to the various pastries.

"Before we begin, Ms. De Lis, I must say your name is ringing a bell in my head. I swear I had heard it before somewhere. Have we met before?"

The mare in question only chuckled and shook her head. "I'm afraid not, though you may have seen me before due to my very successful modeling career and spokesmare of various clothing lines or beauty products."

"No, I'm sure that it's not from those. I think I have heard that name somewhere else."

"Blueblood" Grinds caught the prince's attention-getting impatient "Enough with the stalling."

"Right, right, better not get off track but don't worry, it will come to me. Anyway, as all of you may have guessed, I called you tonight because there is this small project of sorts that I wanted to discuss with you all."

"Is this another weird new party?" Grinds asked, still not convinced.

"No, no, this is a different thing…although it would have some similarities to one."

"Oh! Now I'm intrigued. What did you think of Blue?" Scarlet asked before taking a quick sip of her tea as he continued. "We all have heard or, in my case, told enough stories to last a lifetime, so I will not bore you with the details and get straight to the point. Two days ago, I decided to indulge myself with a small campaign to mediate the emotional, financial, and indirect physical damage I caused ponies all over Canterlot on an almost daily basis. Something I'm sure you are more than aware of from the mountains of complaints I fear you have received involving myself, Mayor."

"Mountain would be an understatement." He huffed and crossed his frontal hooves.

"Well, seeing how much damage I caused and the situations I forced so many ponies to endure made me realize that this couldn't be solved by just writing checks and trying to give back what I took. At best, that would only be a temporary fix. So I wanted to talk to you about doing more for the community in atonement, an experiment, so to speak. One that, at its core, I hope will be a more practical and hopefully, permanent solution…one that, if it works, could prevent this kind of misery from repeating itself."

"So now you want to go and fix everyone's life, so everyone forgets how rotten you are? Oh, this is going to be rich." Grind remarked with a smirk, now more interested in his proposal.

"So, what do you have in mind, lad?" Fancy Pants asked, genuinely intrigued by his idea.

"Something you are familiar with and most likely know how to organize. A charity auction event, one specifically targeted to generate an extra fund for the town hall. To be used for the wellbeing of the community."

The ponies in the room looked at the prince with surprise at the opportunity. "Ladies and gentle stallions. Recent events have revealed that I am currently sitting on a mountain of assorted fine valuables that are doing nothing but collecting dust—some of the finest pieces of art in every conceivable form that you could imagine. So I'm sure if it was presented and organized, high society ponies would be willing to pay a hefty amount of bits to get their hooves on such beautiful treasures. Bits that can and will be sent straight to an external fund dedicated to aiding the citizens of Canterlot with you in charge of the flow and control of them Mayor Grinds" Blueblood pointed at the stallion in question.

"Of course, at this moment, this is yet another pipe dream of mine that I wanted to share. I would love to hear your input on the matter. So what would you say? Do you think this idea has potential? And more importantly, will you join me in this experiment?"

"An additional fund for the citizens, to make up for all the money you have embezzled over the years, this is certainly an interesting turn of events" Scarlet was the first to talk, playing with her cup before looking at the Mayor. "And now I get it why you invited the mayor, an idea this daring and altruistic needed to be heard in pony to be believed, or am I´m wrong dear mayor?"

For his part, Mayor Grind looked away in discontent. "This will change nothing. I bet this is some scheme or just another one of your weird noble games to pass the time. Sure the charity might work once or twice if you are willing to get rid of all the junk you have in containers, but then what? The moment you give away all your trash, the income stops?"

"That is why I mention this as a charity as well, sure I will be the first, but I'm also inviting other nobles to do the same." That caught Fancy and Fleur's attention as the prince turned to look at them. "In all the auctions you have participated in, have you never experienced a moment where a competitor got something you wanted for yourself or vice versa? Wouldn't you like the chance to compete once more for said item or, better yet, see how much that noble is willing to pay for something you no longer use? Either outcome will certainly get you bragging rights."

"Oh! A dash of friendly competition, a pinch of sportsmanship, and a cup of drama, all in one! I love it!" Scarlet clapped her hooves in excitement.

"Well, I'm certainly not that familiar with those experiences actually," Fancy responded, thinking about it. "But I am aware of where you are coming from, lad, and I'm sure a lot of ponies will jump at the opportunity of getting their hooves on one of your old assemblages. isn't that right, dear?" Fancy inquired, looking at Fleur, who nodded in agreement, "Indeed, and I will welcome the extra space in our wardrobe."

"See? You can do justice to all those valuable things and liberate space in your homes. While also helping the community in the process."

"With you getting a percentage, right?" Grind asked with a quirked eyebrow.

"Only on my items and a small one at that. To encourage more participants in the event, do you see Mayor Grinds? This isn't just an idea on how to get rid of things in my name that are doing nothing but collecting dust. It's an endeavor that, if done right, could help us all for a very long time, maybe even forever if we work together."

He grumbled and stared at his cup. "I suppose we could give it a try."

"So can I count on your help? I could use your help spreading the world and gaining more interest from the noble community."

"Well, it certainly sounds like a promising idea, and it's not all that different from an auction event. So organizing one wouldn't be an issue." Fleur spoke, still deliberating.

"I say we should give it a try," Fancy Pants confirmed. "We should work the details and plan it carefully, of course, but I like the general idea, lad. I will gladly lend my aid." He finished before looking down in shame, much to the Prince's confusion. "It's the last I could do after what I did to you at your last party."

The last party? What does he…Oh, Oh! I see. Yeah, I remember now, he was the one that announced Jet Set as the winner of our duel. But he only was another one fooled by their scheme. Why is he blaming himself? The prince thought until Scarlet grabbed his attention once more.

"Let's not dwell too much on the past Fancy dear." She spoke with a smile to the stallion, putting Fleur on edge as she eyed the mare. "We were all fooled by them, but I assure you the ponies responsible learned their lesson…in fact, I say as a show of good faith, why don't we invite them in on this little project as well?"

Everyone looked at her in shock before their attention was drawn toward the prince, who remained calm but had quirked his head to the side in curiosity. "I assure you, as the mare that has overseen their reformation program, I can guarantee that Jet Set and Upper Crust are now completely different ponies. Their debt to society is paid, and they are ready to come back. In fact, I intended to reintroduce them at this coming soiree that Princess Luna has organized for this Friday, so you all can see what I'm talking about."

So that is what you intended all along, auntie? Test my resolve against past enemies. I understand. A ruler isn't naive but doesn't hold a grudge either.

"What better way to show the ponies of Canterlot that you are a new and kinder prince than by showing compassion and forgiveness to past enemies. Like when Princess Celestia forgave Discord, it will certainly help put you in a more positive light, don't you agree, dear?"

"Indeed, IF they can truly prove a change of heart and have no issues working with me," Blueblood replied.

"But of course! I would not expect anything else. So what do you say? Will you give them a chance?"

"I better than anyone, understand the value of second chances. If you don't have a problem with them, I will not have one in inviting them. their contacts with the nobility and powers in their fields will certainly aid our project."

The rest of the ponies looked at each other, unsure. However, they ultimately decided to follow the prince's lead and nodded in agreement, willing to give them a chance.

"Excellent! You will see, those two have formed such a cute herd of their own!"

That caught the assembled group's attention again.

"A herd?" Everyone in the room asked her in surprise and confusion, yet she playfully shook her right hoof in front of them. "Ah, ah, spoilers, you will have to wait to see~."

Slightly annoyed, the group nonetheless respected her wish and decided to drop the subject and wait for the time to see the mysterious herd. When the day arrived, neither of them noticed how under the table the shadow of Scarlet had extended, and its hoof touched the prince's own shadow leaving a dim luminescent pink heart shape t briefly before disappearing.

That Friday evening, the Jet and Crust news was the talk of the night as everyone, even the princesses, were surprised to see the infamous couple walking into the palace once more with a group of females composed of a griffin, a diamond dog, an abyssinian, and a dragon. All lovely-dovey. With an apparent change in perspective and a more humble attitude from the pony couple as the first thing they did when they walked in was to seek out and apologize to the prince and hope to regain his trust and that of society by following his example. Through hard work and effort and no longer with any cheap tricks or easy ways out.

Surprise seemed to be a theme for the evening, and although it took some time, everyone present viewed how the love of the new herd was genuine, and everyone in attendance hadn't seen them happier.

"Told you they looked adorable," Scarlet commented to the prince with a smirk as she snuck her way to his left as he kept watching the display of how Jet Set and the dragon Uru seem to be feeding each other in the distance.

"It must be seen to believe. Scarlet did…did you use their reformation program as an excuse to play matchmaker?"

"Who says love ISN'T the best treatment to reform a bad seed?" She replied with a wink gaining the attention of the prince, "Those two were already considering expanding their love nest anyway, and poor Jet was fawning over me like a sick love puppy. Part of what he did was only an attempt to get my attention. Adorable, but unfortunately, my heart was already taken." She said, inching closer to the prince. "I merely pushed them slightly into viewing other's mares that would reciprocate their feelings if they had only tried. Everything else was merely their own doing. So tell me, your highness? Did I do anything wrong?" She asked, feigning innocence as her shadow subtlety inched closer to his again

The prince chuckled as he backed away a bit from her proximity. "I can't argue with the results. Cadence once told me that love could spring from the most unexpected of places. So I'm sure she would have approved…although with some changes and not using that route straight away."

The moment the prince uttered that name, he could see Scarlet froze, and although she kept her smile, she was an open book to the prince. He could see barely contained rage eating her alive, ignoring how her shadow had also flinched away in an almost disgusted manner before returning to normal.

"Oh yeah…Mi Amore Cadenza, the Princess of love…or a pretender of it at least." She tells mumbling the last part and breaking eye contact to look to the side

"Miss Lips?" Blueblood looked at her with a raised eyebrow, making her come back to reality

"Oh nothing, just lost in thought, and yeah, I'm sure even she wouldn't be able to argue with the results of such an innocent and pure expression of love."

She is practically fighting not to spit venom at Candy's name. Does she hate her so much? Why?

Keeping his smile, the prince pushed the issue a little farther, putting into practice Luna's teachings, "I'm sure you two could get along. Would you like me to arrange a meeting? I bet she might even offer you the position of her apprentice."

That sentence made her physically cringe and back away before faking a small laugh. "Oh no, your highness, I couldn't even fathom the idea of taking up the time of such a busy princess. Oh my, will you excuse me? I need to…eh…dust my tailbonebye!" She begged off before turning around and trotted away in a slight panic.

"Identify and manipulate the subject of one's fear or hate in order to obtain control in the conversation. Good job, nephew." Luna complimented as she and Celestia, dressed in one-piece midnight blue and pastel pink long silk dresses, with some silver and golden regalia atop their heads made their way to him. "And finish with a proposal to force a retreat and upset their footing for good measure. I taught you well."

"It was almost unnatural how much rage I saw in her." Blueblood kept looking in the direction where Scarlet left before turning his attention back to his aunts. "Did they have a falling out? Or are they old rivals, maybe?"

They shook their heads at the idea. "Those two have never talked with one another in the past. I think they haven't seen each other before," Luna commented. "You are right nephew, by all intents and purposes, their lines of work would make it seem like they would get along just fine. Maybe jealousy could be the source of her hate. After all, Miss Lips has on more than one occasion claimed to be THE mare of romance, so the existence of a princess of love might give ponies the impression that she might be her underling or perhaps even her student of some sort."

"Yeah, that could explain, for a novelist being considered the subordinate of someone else could create that kind of sting in their pride."

"Precisely, yet another of the many forms of drama among high society. A shame, really, with both sharing humble beginnings, I'm sure the two could have gotten along just fine if they had just talked." Celestia looked at the distance in disappointment. "But anyway, let's not dwell too much on the drama of society. How are you feeling, dear? Are you comfortable?" she asked, turning to Blueblood and grabbing the blue bow-tie he was currently wearing alongside a silver vest. She started to adjust his ensemble slightly, using her magic as some of her more maternal instincts began to show.

"Auntie, I'm fine!" Blueblood chuckled and dismissed her magic with his hoof before looking at them more seriously. "If anything I should be asking you that, tell me. Now, do you see that I'm more than prepared for the real deal?"

"You certainly seem to be ready to manage on your own." Luna remarked after thinking about it and looking around. "Not only keeping your composure in a potentially stressful situation." Her attention was brought to Jet Set and Upper Crust. "But formulating a plan to work with old rivals and traveling down a potential road to avoid any lingering grudges? Along with proactive thinking on a future solution? I would say that I have seen more than enough. You are ready, nephew."

Blueblood then looked at Celestia, who still seemed slightly worried. "What about you, aunty?"

"Well, I think Luna covered all that it was to say, and you have grown." She quickly glanced at Luna in annoyance. "A heads up, though, and inclusion on this project you are working on would have been nice, though."

"I said I was sorry. It simply happened, ok?" Luna argued back, making Celestia sigh and look back at him

"What I'm trying to say is…with the condition that you invite your cousin to this event, you have my blessing as well."

"Oh, come on, auntie."

"Just a small precaution, just that, is all I ask."

"Well, ok, for you. Cadence can come too."

"Thank you, dear, that puts my heart at ease."

"Blueblood!" Fancy's voice caught the royals' attention, and they turned to their right. They saw him and his wife fast approaching. "Greetings, your highness's, I must say this humble get-together of yours has simply been a delight." He said respectfully with a slight bow towards them.

"Greeting Mr. Fancy Pants, Ms. Fleur De Lis," The princesses replied with a smile. " We are pleased to hear you are enjoying yourself."

"Care if I steal your nephew for a moment? Blue, you need to come with me. I got the perfect targets for our little project in the making. I'm telling you, lad. These ponies are the best frenemies you have ever seen. They will do anything to spite the other."

"Really? Ok, this I have to see, aunties, do you mind if I...?"

"Go, have fun, dear" Luna sent the three off with a smile as Blue thanked them and followed the pair, who went on to enjoy the rest of the party.

"Our nephew is growing, isn't he?" Luna glowed in pride while looking at Celestia.

"Oh, shush you, and let me savor this moment. You have no idea how many moons I have waited for this day?"

"What? Blueblood returning to rub elbows with the nobility?" Luna looked at her with a raised eyebrow

"He is working so hard on finding ways to improve the nation. THAT is such a great and big step in the life of any prince." She choked and cleaned one of her eyes. "My little knight is growing up."

For her part, Luna only rolled her eyes. "Tia, I swear there are days where you could easily compete with the element of generosity when it comes to dramatics."

"Said the mare who choked up after their first sword practice session." Celestia replied without skipping a beat.

"That was completely different!" Luna fired back in anger and embarrassment with a hint of pink in her cheeks “...it was before we started” She corrected her while refusing to make contact as Celestia chuckled, and they kept chatting.


Meanwhile, in the chaos realm.


Whistling a happy tune, the Lord of chaos was hard at work torching the lilies in the front yard of his house as they kept blooming backward as the sound of sand moving behind him startled him briefly before smirking at the arrival of an unexpected guest.

"Discord," A deep, soft voice spoke in what was barely a whisper made the draconess chuckle briefly. "We need to talk."

"Indeed we do," He replied excitedly before turning around to face a griffin made entirely out of golden sand with four eyes and a constantly shifting crown of silver resembling a sandcastle which dripped motes of dust to the ground in front of him, partially melting and reforming as he breathed as if he was half-awake. The griffin regarded Discord with white eyes absent of any pupils. "Well, well, well, if it isn't the Sand hawk himself. Dream! So glad to see you finally moving your granite flank for once!" Discord welcomed his guest with open arms and brought him into a hug, only for Dream to disperse like sand in the wind and reform away from him. "Does this mean that you will stop letting moon butt do YOUR job?" He asked with a raised eyebrow causing the spirit to chuckle and shake his head.

"You are only envious because I found a way to delegate my job and am able to have an easy existence for as long as I please."

"Please, I could find an intern just like that if I wanted to." He replied, snapping his fingers before moving his right eye to the left unnaturally as he smirks. "There sure are plenty of applicants too." Returning his gaze to normal, he addressed Dream once more, "So what do you want, brother? It must be imperative if it makes someone as lazy as you to move."

"I am merely here to deliver a message. Desire knows what you and the others have been doing...and wants a turn."

The moment Dream said the other name, all the color in Discord's body turned ghostly white as he slowly turned to face the griffin. "No, no, it's impossible. She can't have one. She can't even enter the mortal realm for pony's sake, not without a…."

"…willing host, to move through realms? And who's to say she didn't found one already?" Dream cryptically informed before starting to disperse onto the ground.

"What?! WHO!? HOW LONG HAS SHE BEEN OUT?!"

"Don't know, don't care, I only deliver the message," Dream said as his voice got more and more distant. "And tell that prince to stay away from my realm! He and that inner child of his were almost impossible to ignore the last time he invaded my domain!" He yelled out in frustration before the wind carried the remaining sand away, leaving the Lord of chaos alone.

"Oh boy, this miiiight be a problem" Discord said, putting his hands together and looking away with worry.
> Blueblood's Reply  (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Standing in front of a set of double doors, the Prince took one final breath as he mentally prepared to go inside. To his right, Princess Celestia took a glance at her nephew with some mix of worry and anxiety as she inspected his chosen wardrobe for the occasion. A simple silver breastplate similar to hers. Instead of a purple amethyst on the front, there was a sun engraved on it. Overtop of that, there was an expensive and tailor-made light blue silk mantle, with Luna's moon and stars decorating it. The outer garment was clasped together at his neck loosely with a golden broach emblazoned with Equestria's crest. Finally, to complete the ensemble, the silver crown Discord gifted him rested on his brow, just above his horn, where a small bridge in the design prevented any discomfort from use. Overall, an elegant and royal ensemble proclaiming his allegiance while also demonstrating etiquette, formality, and respect to the dignitaries he was about to meet.

"Are you sure you don't want me there? It is not that I don't trust your judgment, dear, but this will be your very first encounter with the rulers of other nations. Even if it is via caldron, their presence can be…imposing for those unprepared." She pleaded, seeing how he was struggling to maintain a straight face. Part of her couldn't help but feel a sense of pride for his initiative and was entirely on board with his decision when they discussed the offer of assistance to other nations. Still, the other was riddled with anxiety feeling like she was sending her flesh and blood into a den full of starving lions. "I know we already discussed and practiced a million times, but maybe just to be sure, I at the very least could…"

Before she could say anything else, Blueblood lifted his right hoof and stopped her with a look and a smile. "…I'm sure, auntie. And believe me, I'm more than a little tempted to accept your offer, but this is something I need to do alone." He looked back at the door, "I have more than tested the patience of all of those rulers as they waited for my answer. Arriving now with you or Aunt Luna will not help de-escalate the situation. It will seem like my decision was yours at best, and a lack of trust in them, your subjects, and even your family at worst.

All of them want to have a personal meeting with me, and they honored your request of arranged marriages being off the table. So the least we can do is agree with their's and let them have a private meeting with me."

"As true as that might be, it will not erase the concerns I have." She said, still worried, as he sighed and nodded. "Nor does mine, but these are our friends' auntie. We should have more trust in them"

"You are right, and Luna keeps telling me I should learn to relax more and not be such a helicopter aunt around you," She half-joked, trying to lighten the mood.

"Auntie, come on! I think that is a bit extreme." Blueblood chuckled and tried to lightly push her away, only for her to grab his hoof and bring him into her barrel for a hug. "Try to be careful out there and don't let any of them manipulate you into doing something you don't want to, ok? Oh! And remember, in case of an emergency, lean on your cousin Cadence," She instructed. "I promise, auntie, I will keep my guard up at all times."

She ended the hug, and Blueblood placed his right hoof on the door handle, slowly opening it as he walked inside. "Best of luck, dear, I know you will do great" Celestia gave him the last bit of encouragement before leaving him to his devices.

"Thank you. I promise I will not do anything crazy." He whispered the last bit while marching to the empty throne. Arrayed before the throne stood six golden cauldrons bubbling with a blue substance in them and a round table in the middle of the room with a map of Equestria resting upon it.

"Ok…showtime," The Prince told himself and did a quick breathing exercise to relax before sitting on the throne and looking forward. Seconds later, all the caldrons burst to life in blue towers of fire from which, one by one, an image of rulers slowly manifested inside the infernos until Blueblood was able to distinguish each individual in them. Besides his cousin Cadence, who was smiling at him while sporting a relatively simple yet elegant dark pink dress with a crystal necklace with the crystal empire's crest on it, there was also, Bulkups, the King of the minotaurs, an imposing and muscular giant brown minotaur with black hair and long, thick bull horns each decorated with a thick golden ring, and lastly, blue paint in the form of vertical lines covering the left side of his face. Besides some bandages on his arms and hands, a shoulder plate on his right shoulder and a thick black belt supporting his armor, and a hammer resting on his back, he didn't seem to be wearing any other piece of cloth from the waist up, letting everyone one see more tattoos on his exposed chest.

Queen Novo, a ruler of the hippogriff race, was wearing nothing save some jewelry on her chest as she was currently in her siren form. King Raptor, the regent of the griffin kingdom, could be seen wearing his usual royal garb. Ivory, the werewolf Matriarch of the Sif nation, sporting a reasonably simple victorian light green dress accented with emerald pieces, with matching earrings and necklaces making her glitter slightly in the light alone. She had an athletic yet feminine figure with red fur covering her body and long straight hair with white fur accenting the underside of her snout, the front part of her neck, and presumably part of her stomach and chest.

And finally, Xena, the Queen of Abyssinia, as well as princess Nefertiti's mother. Like her daughter, she was an anthropomorphic lioness who also had albino fur and black hair. Though unlike the dreadlocks her daughter chose to wear, Xena's hair was arranged into a long ponytail with three long bangs of her hair loose to cascade down in front of her face. Her wardrobe consisted of a white toga with a golden corset showing their nation's symbol, similar to Blueblood's breastplate, three rings on her left paw, and some slight blue shadow under her eyes.

"Good day, everyone, glad that you could make it," Blueblood addressed the group with a short bow. "And thank you for your patience concerning my reply, even if the reasoning for my delay was understandable. Making you wait this long must have been frustrating, and for that, I apologize."

"There is no need to issue an apology, child," Ivory was quick to point out, lifting a paw and smiling calmly at him. "It is quite understandable that a proposition like this required time to process and think about." She then looked at Xena, maintaining a smile. However, this one was more forced. "Rushing into action and making impulsive moves leads to nothing but disaster after all, wouldn't you agree, Queen Xena?"

The tension in the room quickly grew palpable as rather than reply to the jab. The lioness remained calm before looking at Ivory from the corner of her eye. "Indeed, if one were to act blindly without a sharp mind to understand one's movements. After all, in a hunt, there next to no time to stop and think about each step you take." She retorted with a smirk, causing Ivory to growl at her momentarily before recovering her forced smile. "Of course."

Unknown to them, the Prince was smirking inwardly at the display. Just as I planned, that is it, focus on needling each other. The more time you spend thinking of clever comebacks, the less you think of ways to manipulate me.

"Enough of this!" Bulkups interjects in annoyance, pounding the arm of his throne as he turns to regard Blueblood. "As funny as it is watching two grown women act like spoiled brats, that is not why I came to this meeting." He continued, regarding both queens who kept giving each other the stink eye, but other than that, didn't say anything else and looked back at the Prince.

"Quit stalling for time, boy. Your letter says you finally made up your mind, so give us your answer already."

"Fair enough, it would be better to clear the air right away anyway," Blueblood nodded before addressing everyone. "I must admit, the idea of visiting your lands does sound enticing. Viewing new places, seeing other cultures, meeting, and making new friends. It simply too good to pass up on, so my answer will be yes. I will gladly visit all of your realms and see what I can do to lend you a hoof, at least as an experiment to see how things develop."

"Excellent!" Queen Novo reply happily, with the rest of the rulers nodding in approval with smiles on their faces, "I would be more than happy to welcome you into our nation just as your aunts did for me. I assure you, the experience will be something you will remember with fondness, young Prince, just as much as with the rest of us."

"I am sure of it. However, I can't promise the same results that occurred in Manehattan" That piqued their curiosity once more. "Each nation has its own culture, rules, habits, and customs. All of which influence and direct how that nation's crime operates. Let us not fool ourselves here pe…PO…rulers. Every kingdom has crime one way or another. It is a necessary evil. And because of that, I can give you advice and suggestions on how to study, confront, and with luck, reduce it as much as possible, but erase it? That would be asking for the impossible."

"A very nice speech," King Raptor replied, steepling his claws together. "Although it seems you misunderstood the intention of our proposals, Prince Blueblood." Blueblood turned to look at him. Confused by the kings' words as he continued, "Do not misunderstand child, toppling five criminal families and forcing them out of your nation and letting them know who rules over your lands? That is certainly a nice bonus, but what piqued our interest in you and what we would love for you to share is something else entirely."

"The economic miracle." Blueblood answered in realization as the rulers nodded slowly, minus Cadence, who was instead covertly looking between the gathered rulers and Blueblood with worry.

"You single handedly took... What? Four? Maybe five businesses?"

"Six," Blueblood corrected, looking away. "And I hardly did anything other than return the bits those crime bosses took from them."

"My point still stands. You took all those enterprises on the brink of bankruptcy and, before starting your anti-crime campaign, raised them to the top of their industries in a frighteningly short amount of time. That is something that has never happen before"

"It wasn't that hard, really, with criminals extorting everypony, finding allies wanting payback was as easy as turning a corner," Blueblood remarked, causing Raptor to chuckle lightly. "Please, your highness. There is such thing as too much modesty, too." He smirked and points at him. "You put an end to an economic crisis by yourself, simple as that. and we would like to know how it happened."

"If I may interject, what would be the point of that King Raptor?" Cadence was quick to intervene, "Last time I checked, neither Grifingnest nor any of our kingdoms, for that matter, are suffering any economic issues. So why ask for help with a problem that is not even there?"

"True, we all have been blessed with a rich and booming era of prosperity." Queen Xena was quick to reply. "But wouldn't it be best to ensure it lasts rather than hope that it does?" She asked with a raised eyebrow at Cadence, "After all, isn't it best to have a fire extinguisher in arms reach BEFORE a fire starts, hmm? He performed a miracle with those dying companies. Imagine what could be achieved with functional ones."

"It's ok, Princess Cadence," Blueblood called to her with a nod. "I thank you for your concern and appreciate the intervention, but I am happy to answer this." He smiled at her before addressing the rest of the group. "While I'm flattered that you think so highly of my actions, to tell you the truth, what ended this crisis was the very thing that started in the first place. The power vacuum left after the arrest of Fort Knox." The Prince proclaimed, gaining the attention of everyone present.

"I meant it when I said how I only recovered what those crooks stole in the first place. Do you want to know the big secret behind that miracle I created? Simple economic psychology, combined with good old-fashioned war games. Tell me, have any of you ever heard the saying "Know your enemy as you know yourself?"

"It is a well-known quote in our kingdom, yes," Ivory replied with a raised eyebrow. "Except it says 'know your prey,' and it's meant to be a lesson to keep in mind when you hunt your meals. Tell us, young Prince, how does that relate with restoring an economy?"

Because Equestria's economic system is behind Earths by like 50 or more years and never had a great depression which birthed a lot of regulations and rules to prevent it from repeating, making it soft and easy to manipulate. The prince internally answers, weighing his options. 

"Because, as you have seen, the same principle could be applied to economics as well." The Prince finally answered. "The power vacuum in the city created a boom in crime and hoarding of bits by those that tried to be the replacement of Fort Knox, and none of them had the subtlety or the patience to hold any of that for long. So when I arrived, it took me just a week of studying their behaviors to understand precisely how they think, where to strike and what buttons to push” He tells with a semi malicious smirk on his face “The moment I made the first move, they were already nothing but puppets in the frog of my hooves.

Making them reveal exactly where they hide all their money and then trick them into giving it back and then some, all the while not breaking a single law was so painfully easy and fast that after I was done returning it to the corresponding authorities, I decided to show them how outclassed they were and what happens to those that hurt me…I mean, Equestria's citizenry" He then shrugged.

"The economic boom was simply a side effect, take away the predator, and the prey will flourish, ah; I hope that is not offensive." He added, looking at the rulers in worry.

"Don't worry, and it's not." Xena was quick to ease his fear. "And we understand what you meant"

Bulkups laughed at the story, "Turn your enemies into mere puppets and make them work for you? Oh, that is cold blood and I love it! You sure taught them a lesson, didn't you, boy?"

"Yes, indeed I did." The Prince joined in with a smile of his own.

And that is all you need to know. It's one thing to give an economy a light push forward. It's a whole other matter to provide it with a massive jumpstart, and Tartarus will freeze before I become the pony that causes the first global great depression.

"I hope this clears the air and helps you understand how what I did was more a matter of security rather than economics."

"Now that you have explained it to us, it's crystal clear." Novo replied, with the others nodding in agreement. "And you don't have to worry about that being a deterrent. I still will welcome you into our kingdom," She tells him with a smile, as the others soon voice their approval as well. Cadence letting go a sigh of happiness on how he de-escalate what could had been a potentially heated argument 

"I suppose there is only the issue of when and who will be the first to receive you, young Prince." Xena stated, looking at the other rulers.

"Let us not get ahead of ourselves just yet. Queen Xena" Blueblood called their attention once more with a smirk. "I said I would accept your invitations as a courtesy to King Bulkups wanting a direct answer and in hopes to clear any possible misunderstandings. But that doesn't mean I don't have conditions of my own for this proposal of yours. Rest assured, I won't ask for much, just further clarifications towards my role. And the condition that my teachings will be to the royal of my choosing, particularly, those that like me, are directly connected to the now present ruler or rulers of each nation."

The daring announcement of the Prince's caught the rulers by surprise, not expecting to hear such a proclamation, all except for Queen Xena, who smiled calmly at him after the brief shock.

My sweet Nifi, you genuinely have caught the attention of this poor naïve Prince. Good job.

"You wish to impart your wisdom to our children?" Xena asked with a raised eyebrow, to which he nodded affirmatively.

"That is my intention, yes, but I'm not beyond dialogue, and I'm willing to compromise, which is the true intention of this meeting your highness's. The floor is open. Let the negotiations begin." The Prince proclaimed confidently as the rulers smiled and nodded as their cases were laid out one by one, and the details of his conditions were calmly discussed.

Later that night

After the meeting ended, the Prince went straight to the dining room where a cup of coffee and a muffin were waiting for him, next to his maids, who stood by with a smile. Returning the gesture, the Prince took a seat and took a bite of his little snack before sighing in relief and looking up. "Whoever thought of this, you just read my mind. This is exactly what I needed, thank you."

"I had a hunch you will appreciate the small treat, your highness," Mist answered with a knowing smirk.

"Really? How?" the Prince inquired, noticing her expression.

"Because Tia has the same vice," Luna replied as she entered the room, making the maids stand to attention and offering her the same treatment as the Prince before bowing and standing back once more. "Meeting with other rulers can be quite draining, isn't it?" Luna inquired with a quirked eyebrow, making the prince sigh in reply. "I feel like I just came back from running around Canterlot eight times. All I want to do is lay down and sleep for a week," He whined, eliciting a chuckle from Luna.

"Yeah, your first always saps you of energy. Don't worry over much, though. It gets easier with time and practice." Luna reassured him. "So, by the lack of dread on your face, I believe that everything went as planned?"

The Prince smiled as he picked up his cup. "Like a charm, every single condition I put forth was accepted in a matter of minutes without too much hassle. Not even Queen Xena opposed it when I set the date. The Prince or Princess of my choosing will hear my advice and instruction during my visits, and in return, their voice will be heard in their respective homes."

"Having spoken for those that felt used or ignored will be a sure way to gain a substantial number of allies among the future rulers. Nicely done, nephew. You did pretty well for your first meeting, I'm proud of you, and I'm sure Tia will be too once she hears the news."

"Thanks, auntie, and where is she anyway?" Blueblood asked, looking around the room

"Tia and your great aunt Platinum had a meeting of their own outside the city that has gone on longer than expected, unfortunately. A guard has already informed me that they will come back tomorrow and are more than eager to hear how things went, do not fret, nephew. This is not that unusual in our line of work." Luna assured Blueblood with a smile.

"Yes, I understand. Even when timed, a meeting can, unfortunately, always end earlier or later than expected. Hers must have been extended by an extraordinary amount of time if she still needed to be there, unlike making a caldron call. I hope it goes as well as mine did."

"I am sure of it, Tia was always particularly skilled in dealing with meetings and diplomacy."

At that moment in a hotel room in Cloudsdale near the Wonderbolt academy

Celestia finished placing her regalia on a travel mannequin she was a force to request after what she thought was going to be a short and straightforward meeting evolved into a whole excursion that made her seek out a place to spend the night and put her other obligations on hold that no doubt would be waiting for her once she returned. With an exhausted sigh, the princess looked out the window towards the wonderbolt academy, where she could see various ponies hard at work preparing an exhibition practice. Just for her and the ponies in charge of regulating and assisting the Wonderbolts in their daily activities. A prospect that she was less than eager to participate in. All called by Crossfire Tempo who somehow manage to convince her and prepare everything up for a demonstration of her case. 

By all my sisters' stars, how did I end up here?
> Allegro (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With an eerie silence interrupted only by the calm breeze of the morning, Princess Celestia, accompanied by Princess Platinum, Captain Spitfire, Rainbow Dash and a group of retired loyal ex-Wonderbolts who now served as the directors in charge of the organization and keep tabs of the groups' activities and enforce discipline in case of insubordination. All looked on from their booths at Crossfire Tempo and an elite squadron of flyers trained by herself. All were standing at attention, waiting for their signal. They wore white and grey spandex uniforms like the Wonderbolt and, oddly enough, a modified darker gray helmet with a design similar to a biker's. They featured polarized faceplates, so they couldn't distinguish any of their faces as they waited. Behind them was an intricate maze of obstacles and practice dummies in addition to carefully stationed unicorns with cloud walking spells cast who stood by to animate said dummies in combat scenarios. This, combined with the ordinary Wonderbolts obstacle course, spread all over the arena, giving the impression of the whole thing being an army demonstration instead of a Wonderbolts one.

That image alone filled the Princess with dread, fearing how all of this was robbing the spirit of what being a Wonderbolt was, yet taking a glance at her companions, she saw how the feelings were split among them. Spitfire and her aunt looked eager to see the demonstration in action, while Rainbow Dash and the group of veterans looked reasonably impartial to the whole ordeal, making her sigh and look down.

This is going to turn into a heated argument. I just know it.

"Greetings, everypony!" Tempo addressed the group with an eager and happy demeanor. "I'm so glad to see how you all came to our demonstration. I am especially pleased to see Princess Celestia herself gracing us for what I hope will be the future of such a well-respected and famous group as the Wonderbolts." she announced, keeping the Princess on edge with how quickly her emotions seemed to flicker and appear almost contradictory at times. In particular, how at this time, she doesn't seem to hold any hostility or ill will towards her. It only served to keep her off balance and tense.

You're either an imposter or your acting skills have grown to such a degree that you could compete with Chrysalis herself. What did you do during your exile, Crossfire?

"I know this is way earlier in the day than most of you are used to, but let's face it. This is no different than the drills and training session back at the academy, am I right?" She joked, earning a couple of light chuckles and small nods for various ponies in the audience. "Don't worry. This will wake you up for sure. You all know the idea. We all have discussed it, but what's a better sales pitch than a live demonstration! Ladies and Gentlestallions, I give you the future of the Wonderbolts! Take it away, ladies!" She yelled, introducing her team as her unit turned around in unison and went to the start of the circuit to await the signal. The starting pistol rang out, and off they went, nine stallions and mares pegasus personally trained by the ex-Wonderbolt, maneuvering through the obstacle course with efficiency and grace.

"You all know the routine, the spins, twists, speed, and so on. Such displays of aerial mastery are indeed an incredible spectacle to watch over and over again, but watch what happens when with a few small tweaks in the routine, that mastery could serve a greater purpose." Tempo narrated as her team approached the first new obstacle placed on the track, a small wooden tower which lit on fire with their proximity. "Disaster response, for example!" Tempo pointed at the flaming tower as the team began to orbit the building, barely slowing down, irising closer and closer until they formed a tornado. The wind choked the fire out in a matter of seconds before the fliers peeled off and landed around the now extinguished building, finally stopping to shake off their dizziness. "Our routine used to train rookies to sustain G forces repurposed and reorganized to tackle fires both forest and urban, without the aid of water.

And how do you prevent trapped creatures or citizens in the zones or buildings from choking as well while doing so? Celestia questioned as the team moved to their next obstacle.

A simple hostage situation scenario where the captives' dummies were placed in various positions from knife to neck situation, circle rally, and a three on one hostage where the hostiles had their prisoner surrounded. "But putting down fires is just one thing. Let us show you a more practical use for that speed we are well known for. In this case, a hostage situation. Repurposed and easy to adapt to different situations: to strike, distract or disarm." As she explained, the team split into three and went to hit each obstacle simultaneously. One team scooped up each attacker in the circle scenario practice ease and deposited them in a cage nearby with ropes tied to their hooves before the unicorns in charge of their movements had time to react. The other used a trail of clouds typically used in their performances to blind the three on one situation, rescuing the hostage before they noticed. While their companions wrapped up the hostage-takers using a lasso. A single pegasus kept speeding along in the final scenario, first disarming the dummy before it could react. He then went straight ahead and hit it in the head, no doubt leaving it unconscious if that would have been in an actual situation.

The entire group watching was honestly surprised by the display. Even Celestia was impressed with how everything went down. They solved it in a matter of seconds without casualties or injury. If they can genuinely have such mastery of their speed...could it be implemented in the royal guard? No, their armor will always make them slower. Maybe a specialized subdivision? I hate to admit it, but you got me this time, Tempo. This could have potential in security applications for the nation, just not for the Wonderbolts.

Celestia pondered before resuming watch as the team, without skipping a beat, kept racing around the track as they approached their final obstacle, one that, unlike the others, seemed to be hiding behind a tent for some reason. "And leaving the best for last, allow me to show you how with the correct organization, planning, and application of speed. The Wonderbolts could elevate themselves to take on the highest level of predators and feel pride like never before!" Uncovering her last demonstration, everyone was left speechless when underneath the tent lay a simulacrum of a dragon. It was massive and resembled Spike's form while under the influence of the forced growth that he underwent once some time ago. The exact form that dealt with Spitfire's entire team in seconds. It was a particularly sore subject to discuss with the captain, and the Princess could see the unease on the pegasus in the question as she recoiled and subconsciously grabbed one of her frontal hooves.

Crossfire, you are opening old wounds! The Princess sent the ex-Wonderbolt a glare, not approving of what she was indirectly causing.

Unlike the other two demonstrations, for this one, Tempo raised her hoof to stop the drill. Confusing everypony present while her troop stood down. "Dear royals and esteemed members of the Wonderbolts." Tempo looked at the audience with a big smile. "Allow me to show you how our team could, should, and with your approval, will defeat a dragon if one ever dares menace our lands!"

"She certainly has a flair for the dramatic, doesn't she?" Platinum idly commented to Celestia in a low voice, "Was she always like that?" The Princess sighed and nodded. "She always liked to boast about what she could do until her accident. I thought the experience gave her some humility, but it looks like she still enjoys showing off, even if it's indirectly now," Celestia answered with a tired sigh, still unsure.

Although she wasn't this intense with her showboating before, Aunt Platinum and Luna are correct. Something is off with her. The question is, am I watching an act...or a symptom? Tempo, did I do this to you?

Celestia's eyes widened briefly before her ears dropped as a cold feeling of shame, guilt, and worry started to wash over her back like icy rain. Tempo raised her left wing into the air and then brought it down in a swift chopping motion, signaling her team to proceed, which they didn't waste time in doing. They began by dividing their forces like in the previous demonstration. Though this time, they maintained the same equal number in each group, splitting just before the dummy tried to grab them, making them harder targets to hit. Without missing a beat, the team started to strafe all around the dragon.

"The first thing one will notice about dragons is their size," Tempo started to list off the characteristics of the dragon target. " With a body the size of a house or even a tower and with scales tougher than our sturdiest enchanted armor, attacking them directly would be pointless. But at the same time, hitting something so small as a pegasus, especially with our speed, will level the playing field, especially if the pegasus has a team backing them up and a plan of action." Her team then demonstrated her point. weaving through and around its legs, wings, and even snout repeatedly as the beast seemed unable to catch anyone. " The base of their limbs and wings are their hardest points to reach, or hit with their fire or with powerful gusts of wind from their snout. with blurred movements to impede its vision briefly, our team makes it harder for the dragon to react in time and can even make it dizzy."

One of their teams struck the dragon's eye, making it pretend to flinch and stand back. "Second, their eyes and nose are the most sensitive parts. If the opportunity presents itself strike those, it will not injure, but it will keep them unbalanced and partially blind."

At this point, the entire audience was watching the demonstration in awe, minus Celestia, who continued looking on in worry. Shaking its head, the dragon went on the attack again, trying to bite the team, who in turn kept dodging and leading it to a thunder cloud that quickly discharged when bitten. Shocking the dummy and make it start to sizzle.

"Third, our best weapon is our control over the clouds. As you just witnessed, the insides of a dragon are the most vulnerable. Even their sturdy exterior is susceptible to a well-placed lighting strike. Remember, they have size, but we have the clouds. Their brute strength can be evenly matched in battle if we fight intelligently, even if there are no clouds or thunderheads around since a well-placed fireball can disperse those easily. For the grand finale…." She pointed at her team one last time, and everyone seemed to be carrying typical long ropes, which they expertly wielded to lasso and wrap under the dragon's feet and wings, tangling it into a mess of cords until its own weight brought it down to the ground. "…restraining. And this is just one option available, quarries, abandoned towers, mud pits, freezing arrows. The list of methods goes on. To stop its movements effectively and equinely can be achieved if we always apply this simple idea. Use their weight against them."

Tempo finished and looked at the audience as her team returned to her and, although exhausted, stood firm and saluted the crowd with respect. "Ladies and gentlestallions. The future of the Wonderbolts."

Tempo finished with a bow. It didn't take too much time for the various members in the audience to start to clap and stomp their hooves in approval, while others kept a critical eye on Tempo and her team. The tension was soon palpable once the cheers stopped, and the Princess could perceive ponies looking at one another with wary eyes, ready to launch their argument. Still, before any fight could start, she put anything they were about to say to a halt by sternly clearing her throat, demanding attention as all eyes turned to her.

With a neutral look and her head held up high, the Princess stood up and walked towards the field, keeping her eyes focused on Crossfire, who remained smiling at her, increasing the Princess's unease. "Crossfire Tempo, when you first came to me with this proposal of incorporating a more militaristic program into the Wonderbolts, at first I was against the idea, and even now, I have my reservations with this proposal of yours."

Celestia then shifted her gaze to regard the team behind Tempo. "But after seeing these fine pegasi perform such a magnificent display of unity, discipline, and clever thinking and incorporating the teachings of the Wonderbolts in creative ways? I now see the point of your argument and the benefits it could bring for the security and wellbeing of all of Equestria."

"Thank you, your highness," Tempo's team answered in unison, revealing that most if not all members were most likely mares by the timbre on their voices. Additionally, they sounded similar, too similar.

Are they changelings? Why are they disguised if so? Equestria would have no issue with changelings joining the Wonderbolts." She thought, wondering if the mares were indeed ponies and, if not, why hide their actual appearance underneath doubled disguises. Deciding to put a pin in that subject for now. Celestia kept talking, turning around to address both Tempo and the ex-members of the Wonderbolts.

"Unfortunately, as innovative as this idea might be. This isn't the first time a pony has approached me wishing to change this group or return it to its roots. Others have tried to sway my decision, and all have failed." She shakes her head. "And you will not be the exception Crossfire, I'm sorry, but I must remain firm in my decision. We can't allow paranoia and the promise of security to kill the dreams of freedom and speed that this organization has come to represent. That is not what the Wonderbolts way" Immediately after, she raised her hoof as an argument started, stopping it in its tracks.

"That being said, this is just my opinion, and this is not my decision to make alone. The final decision will be placed for a vote. But before my colleagues and I go to deliberate, I would like to offer a counter-proposal that could benefit both parties."

"Oh really? And what do you have in mind, your highness?" Tempo asked with a raised eyebrow. Her interest peaked as the group and Platinum kept observing her with a critical eye.

"While I'm against reinstating the Wonderbolts as a military force, the idea you propose does have untapped potential I would like to discuss further with my colleagues. If approved, we can explore your proposal in much greater detail in the future" Upon hearing that, the group of directors started to mumble to one another about the idea with interest as Platinum smiled and nod.

"And how exactly would that work?" An elderly pegasus stallion with a gray and prominent mustache, light red fur, dark greyish red short mane, and an aviator's sweater asked.

"By founding a branching group from the Wonderbolts, a sister service with the same training regimen but a new mission. The 'Lighting bolts' perhaps?" Celestia elaborated. "Both groups will receive training here in the academy and, as long as they are regulated and approved by the association, will receive basic military training before splitting into advanced courses for those wishing to join the Lightning Bolts."

"So making a second group then, the Wonderbolts stay the same and do what they do best while the Lightning Bolts…."Spitfire started, picturing the idea.

"...Act as the military team Crossfire tempo suggested. This way, you obtain the discipline and training you wish to incorporate and do not sacrifice anything." Celestia answered her as she nodded and kept pondering the options, starting to weigh if it works for her.

"And who would be training this new "Lightning Bolts group"?" Another director asked, and rather than respond right away, Celestia turned to Crossfire Tempo

"I believe that question has already been answered."

"Me?" Tempo asked, her expression finally changing to one of surprise as she pointed at herself, as Celestia smiled and nodded.

"Why not? You did an excellent job training nine promising recruits who could be the first team in this new and intriguing concept. With some help and with a carefully thought out and approved regimen, I'm sure you could create a dream team which Equestria would forever thank you for bringing to life."

The herd of directors started to consider and think about it, some nodding slightly while others kept thinking about it.

"Oh, I'm not sure, it sounds like a lot of responsibility, your highness, and I'm not exactly a spring chicken anymore." Tempo chuckled briefly as Celestia put her hoof over the mare's shoulder.

"I'm sure you will do an excellent job, old friend. And your fans will be certainly will be more than happy to see their heroes returning." Celestia inclined her head towards Spitfire, who had stars in her eyes at the idea of working side by side with her hero. "So what do you say, Tempo? Would you aid your team once more?"

"I will do my best, your highness!" She responds with an enthusiastic smile, but the Princess notices how she seems to be forcing the gesture, confusing her immensely.

She wants this to happen but doesn't want to be a part of it…Tempo, what the heck is going on with you? Celestia was getting more confused by the minute, but before she could ask or say anything, Tempo came back to her usual cheerful self and looked around.

"But well, first of all, there needs to be a vote. Let's not get ahead of ourselves, I will take the job if you all agree, but I'm more than happy to know you all like the idea and will consider it! I will wait for your answer, ladies and gentle stallions! Let's move, ladies!" She commanded her team, and soon, all the mares rushed to their showers.

"Wait," Celestia called for them, making Tempo and her team stop and look at her. "Wouldn't you like to say a few words before leaving?" She asked Tempo's team, pointing at the cadre. "We all would like to hear your stories, and after seeing what you are capable of, more than one of us is wondering why haven't you ever tried to be a Wonderbolt before."

The team looked at one another, unsure before one stepped up, presumably the team leader, and take a deep breath before answering, "We are shy" that is all that she said before they all practically galloped into the showers in a rush as Tempo chuckled with a blush in her cheeks "They are, don't worry I will prep them up for you, and then you will be able to talk all you want to them. Just give them time to relax and calm down in the sauna, a mud bath, and the massage tables, and they will be good to go." She said before flying after her team, making everyone blink in confusion at what happened.

"Ah…the academy doesn't have any of those things," Spitfire finally said, still trying to understand what happened.

"It does now. You're welcome! I took the liberty of equipping the showers with them while the obstacle course was being made," Tempo answered as she disappeared in the distance.

"She did what now?" Spitfire's eyes went wide when she heard that, while the Princess kept looking in the direction Tempo just left. The more I look, the less I find. Tempo, I don't know what is happening, but I now know this isn't you. Just hang on, old friend. I will get to the bottom of this. And will rescue you from whatever is going on with you.
> The Empathic Arrows (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------



Putting on a lab coat, Sharp Shot checked himself in the mirror for a bit before leaving his room and heading to the lab of the crystal castle, where a group of ponies wearing similar lab coats were hard at work. All of them were mixing chemical concoctions and taking notes on reactions with various instruments as their boss made his way to an empty desk where a luminescent green liquid sat above a bunsen burner bubbling merrily. As he got closer to the beaker, Sharp Shot used a small iron rod to mix the substance, only for it to melt in the liquid, causing him to smile.

"Test subject 1, Pearl Shine. Testing empathic arrow one. Anger." One of his scientists narrated and wrote it down as the entire group observed a pony thrashing around a sealed room with foam on her lips as the team continued to watch neutrally behind a pane of heavily reinforced glass.

"Test subject 2, Rock Slide. Testing empathic arrow two. Fear"

"I give up! I give up! See? m…my hooves are up, I'm sorry, I'm so sorry! Just please don't hurt me!" A bulky stallion was reduced to a shaking mess as he kept crying his eyes out uncontrollably in a corner as they kept taking notes.

Sharp Shot smirked as he flew up and saw more of his serums taking on different colors and being dispersed in various lab rooms where results were watched and cataloged efficiently.

"Test subject three…Sadness… Test subject four, Guilt… Subject five Joy…Subject six, Pity…." Soon, the room was filled with a cacophony of sounds ranging from sobs to screams to laughs and incoherent words. All this elicited a light chuckle from Sharp Shoot as he kept collecting data with enthusiasm. All the while, more and more of his arrows were manufactured. Enjoying himself, Sharp Shot selected a range of arrows and a crossbow and started to shoot the test subjects himself. Making the cries and laughs into some sort of music. Dancing in the center of the room and spinning around, Sharp kept shooting his targets dead center with freighting accuracy despite not even looking at the targets. In contrast, his companions keep taking notes, amused by his antics.

" vital signs are good…."

"This one is about to faint, decreasing the dose by two percent…."

"Dosage fading, doubling it now…."

"All positives here…."

"Zero pain…"

Sharp Shot started to mix more of his formula before bathing the arrowheads with it, inhaling the fumes released by the formula's reaction with the same pleasure of baking a cake. Mixing another one, he started to fill capsules with a luminescent red light shining on his face as he kept grinning at it before taking a moment to admire his work and spun around when no problems seemed to appear.

"Mr. Shot!" Cadence snapped him back to reality, and he saw her glaring at him. "Are we interrupting?" She asks sarcastically.

"Oh no, your highness, please this way, we are about to start with the last one" he gives her a polite bow before guiding her inside the lab.

"Test subject seven, Quartz Cut. Testing empathic arrow Seven. Apathy" Sharp Shoot listed out in a recording device before approaching a light pink cristal stallion sitting on a chair, connected to some cables as the doctors and scientists inspected his vitals.

"All signs in the green so far, your highness." A doctor informed Princess Cadence as she observed the procedure, next to a crystal mare with yellow fur, as they both watched Sharp Shot approach Quartz, who remained unresponsive and had a neutral expression.

"One minute after the arrow was shot, with no visible marks at first glance." He inspected the side of Quartz's neck. "No internal or external damage and only a slight burn mark the size of a mosquito bite as evidence of the strike," He continued narrating before looking at Quartz, who stared back at him. "How do you feel, sir?"

Quartz looked down for a moment before returning his gaze forward. "Mostly bored," He replied lazily. "Is this gonna take long?"

"Hmm, the subject seems responsive enough. The effects are nearly instantaneous. Initiate the stimulus test." Sharp Shot called to one of the doctors. Who nodded and brought forth a covered silver plate that they opened in front of the stallion, revealing a lettuce salad with bread, tomatoes slices, honey mustard, and an extra serving of cheddar on the side.

"His favorite dish," The mare next to Cadence explained, slightly worried as the princess look at her empathetically.

"Tell me, Mr. Quartz, do you recognize the dish in front of you?"

He looks down at it before nodding. "Cheese salad and honey mustard, it looks like my wife made it. It even has the happy face of condiment she likes to put in the middle" The comment made the mare smile but then start to get worried with how unimpressed he was when he said it.

"It because it is. We asked her to make this particular dish just for you."

"I see" was Quartz's only reply.

"What do you think about that?"

He looked at the dish once more before shrugging. "That it would taste good, I suppose."

Sharp Shooter looked at the doctor next to a lie detector who nodded affirmatively.

"Cognitive and long-term memory remains intact, good, on to the next test." He marked the checklist as the lab workers brought forth two buckets of water, one boiling, and the other freezing cold. "Tell me, Mr. Quartz, do you know what this is?"

"Hot and cold water." He continued responding in a bored tone.

"Indeed, would you mind putting your hoof on either of them?"

He shook his head. "No, they will hurt me if I do."

"What if I told you that princess Cadence herself is ordering you to do it."

"Then I would ask why and then refuse. I will not injure myself for no reason." He remained adamant.

"Excellent, still in control of reasoning and operating on the logic of self-preservation alone, it seems." Sharp wrote all that down before looking at the princess. "We are ready for the final test, your highness. Bring her in."

Cadence nodded before sending the mare towards Quartz, who rushed to him while Cadence flew up next to Sharp Shot " Are you ready with the antidote?"

"Here it is, princess." Sharp raised one of his wings, revealing the syringe with a golden substance inside he was holding.

"Quartzy? Quartzy is me, Melody," The unicorn asked, caressing the cheek of the stallion, yet other than looking at her, he seemed unresponsive.

"Yes, I know who you are. My wife, do you want something?" He asked coldly, his tone remaining neutral.

"Quartz, please snap out of it. This isn't you, don't you remember?" Melody asked, becoming afraid of his gaze and how the glimmer in his eyes seemed to be gone.

"I told you, I remember. What are you talking about? Snap off of what?" He asked her with a raised eyebrow.

"Interesting, the subject seems unaware of the shot. The change happened, but he isn't aware of the shift in his emotions." Sharp Shot wrote it down as the mare tried to make emotional contact even so far as hugging him. "Please, Quartzy! Just come back to me! Please!"

"Ok, I've had enough, Sharp. Bring him back now!" Cadence ordered, pointing at the couple.

"Of course, the test ended already anyway." He nodded and approached them, smirking internally.

So not even love can shake its effects then. With this, I can create something, not even the princesses will be able to break…

"What? Sir, wait!" One of the doctors called for them before pointing at the monitor he was watching" There's a sudden spike in the subject's heart rate."

"What?" Sharp looked surprised at the machine. "Brainwaves on the rise too, sir," Another reported.

"The effects are deteriorating, numbness disappearing. He's coming back." The doctors kept listing off. Surprised, Melody saw Quartz's eyes start to glimmer once more, making her gasp in happiness.

"Me…Melody?" Quartz shook his head before holding it and closing his eyes in pain. "What happened? W…why are you crying?" His eyes suddenly widened as he held her hooves in worry. "Is everything ok? Did something go wrong with the experiment? Please tell me I didn't lose my mane, and…why are you smiling?" He asked, confused before been tackle-kissed by her in pure ecstasy, making the doctors chuckled.

"There is no trace left. It looks like love wins again, sir."

Cadence breathed a sigh of relief at the news. "Thank the stars."

"Hmm, this means there is a flaw yet to be ironed out. Don't worry, princess, I will work on that." Sharp responded, putting the needle down on a nearby table.

"That will not be necessary, Mr. Shooter. I believe this is a good place to stop the trials." She said with a shake of her head.

"But princess, the flaw…."

"True love is never a flaw, Sharp. As my student, you better than anyone should understand this, right?"

"Right"

She then looked over her clipboard. "And I believe this was the final emotion to be tested, am I right?"

"Indeed, we have already approved, Sadness, Guilt, Fear, Joy, Pity, Anger, and now Apathy. All are working and eliciting the desired response. With sadness, guilt, and fear zapping away the desire to resist arrest and encouraging the secession of the subject's current actions. Joy and pity seem perfect in enabling negotiation and aiding in seeing the reasoning for their actions and apathy? well, you saw the results."

Cadence nodded in response before turning the page. "What about anger?"

"The test subject demonstrated a boost of adrenaline and a small boost fast-twitch muscle response, as well as hyper-awareness. We also erased the rage response and can now keep them fully conscious and in control of their actions. It is still in experimental faces, but I believe it could be of use to the royal guard or, if modified correctly, it could inject discord in organized criminal groups."

"That will not be necessary" She crossed the hated word from the list. "Anger is still an emotion to be studied and approached with caution and delicacy. Neither the crystal empire nor Equestria is ready to weaponize such an emotion. So until I tell you otherwise, I want that variable arrow and any research associated with it off the list and kept on hold pending review. Do that, and you have my seal of approval."

"Consider it done, your highness."

You naive, paranoid idiot! How do you expect us to study the emotion of anger if you keep putting any research about it on hold?! Sharp Shooter internalized as Cadence smiled and called for one of her maids with a seal and some red ink. She placed her seal of approval on the project.

"In that case, I officially place…." She stopped when the princess started to hear slurpy sounds, and turning to their left, they both saw the couple still making up.

"Ahem!" Clearing her throat, the couple snapped out of their daze, breaking their kiss and snapping to attention in front of the princesses. "Thank you for your cooperation Mr. Quartz and Ms. Melody. You will receive your check at the entrance, but for now. Would you mind taking that to another room? Preferably at your home?" She winked at them, causing the couple to blush from embarrassment before nodding and giving a vow before leaving in a rush.

"Now, where was I? Oh yes! As princess of the Crystal Empire, I officially give my signature of approval for the emphatic arrows as well as their circulation in the free market." She handed over the proper documentation to Sharp Shoot with her seal of approval on it too. "You are going to save a lot of lives with your invention Mr. Shot."

"That was always my intention, your highness" He gave her a polite bow before leaving along with his team, not before taking a handful of his approved arrows.

"So what do you we do with the aggro arrows, sir?" A member of his research team asked Sharp Shot as they advanced down the hallway once they were alone.

"You heard the princess, any research on the subject of anger must be placed on hold, for now, leave the cataloging and storage of it to me, and focus on circulating the rest of the arrows through to packaging, production, and publicity for their upcoming release, also order a team to bring any experimental aggro arrows to my chambers for safekeeping."

"Consider it done, sir."

"Good, you have your orders. Now leave me be." He raised the box of arrows he took that didn't look too different from a pack of pencils at the moment, with each approved emotion listed on it. "I have another appointment to attend to," He remarked, and his team dispersed, leaving him alone as he made his way toward Amber, Stellar, and Hurricane's room.

I have my product now to get my spokesmares.

Knocking a couple of times, the pegasus stood in front of the door as he waited for an answer, which soon arrived in the form of Stellar opening the door for him. "Greetings, Ms. Stellar. Might I come in for a moment?"

"Shot, you come just in time." Amber answered, stepping outside with a saddlebag. He noticed that Stellar was wearing one too, along with Hurricane. "Your help will not be required in the end, Stellar and I have finished our training this morning, and we are preparing to leave."

"So soon?" He asked in surprise. "Don't you at least want to rest and start fresh in the morning?" He pleaded, following along as they advance down the hallway

"We can't take the luxury and risk the trail going cold. Time of the essence." Stellar replied determinedly. "Thanks for the offer, though."

"Wait!" He rushed forward and stood in front of the three mares.

"Give it up, Rusty! We are leaving," Hurricane snarked in exasperation, but rather than the answer, he offered them the box of arrows. "At least take these with you."

Amber looks at the package suspiciously. "You shrunk your arrows?"

"It is my business trademark, shrinking and growing ammunition for easy transportation. Take one out of the box, and they will return to their normal size." He demonstrated, pulling out one of the arrows, which seconds after leaving the package grew to the size of a regular gray arrow with some fog emanating from its head. "The princess just approved my designs. They are ready for field testing." He tapped the arrow with the box twice to shrink it again and put it back in before passing it to the guards. "The antidote is at the bottom of the box. Please, I guarantee that it will make your job a lot easier."

The guards looked at one another until Stellar finally nodded and took the box.

"If they work, we will make sure to detail their use in our report," Amber explained as they resumed their march.

"Thank you so much. I promise they will serve their purpose." He called after them with a smirk before leaving.

"Do you believe him?" Hurricane asked the two once they were out of earshot.

"He's a rat, and he is only after bits and fame. Giving us a defective product would only hurt his name and his business reputation. A pony that dedicates to his craft would never do that," Amber reasoned. "Besides, as we agreed, we will use them only if the situation requires it. Not to mention…."

Unknown to them, inside the box was a concealed gem charged with magic and linked to an identical stone which Sharp Shot was using as an earring at the time. "…what could he possibly gain by sabotaging our mission?" Sharp kept listening with a smile as he entered his room.

Ah, Centurians, so paranoid, so quick to profile other ponies, so easy to fool with a well-performed act. He chuckled lightly to himself as he closed and locked the door before covering his windows and lighting a candle on the table to illuminate the now darkened room. He poured himself a measure of brandy in a crystal cup. "Report." Sharp Shot ordered, keeping his eyes forward as a pony hidden in the shadows knelt beside him.

"Everything is proceeding according to plan, sir. Although faster than expected."

"Oh, how so?"

"Crossfire Tempo has finally managed to speak with Celestia, sir. She and the head of directors are voting to approve a response team inspired by your idea and install her as the head instructor for the recruits. After a demonstration and having earned both the captains and the previous ruler of the unicorn empire's favor, It looks like the approval is almost guaranteed."

"A response team with her as their teacher? No, that would not do at all. It's too soft. Equestria needs strength!" He got angry for a moment before sighing and taking a sip of his drink. "But it's a step in the right direction, at least. We can work with that and make our way towards erasing that moronic team of clowns doing nothing but flips on the air. What about the princess?"

"Complete success, she and Ms. Tempo seem to be on better terms, and she has agreed to visit her spa in Appleloosa. Not only that, but the prince seems to be preparing for a trip to Las Pegasus. He's going with the sons and daughters of the rulers of other nations without his aunts. He's even going to spend a week in Ponyville seeking advice from the elements. He will be completely vulnerable."

"Hmm, I see, you are right. Things are progressing far faster than I would like. And Princess Luna is a factor we can't ignore either." He swirled his drink deep in thought, weighing his options. "Ponyville is out of the question. It will be far too risky for us to make any sort of move, but that royal meeting could have potential. It could be a real shame if something were to happen to our dear prince…."

"…I gonna have to stop you right there, honey!" Suddenly a new female voice echoed in the room, startling the pegasus who dropped his drink and started to look around.



"Who's there!?" He demanded, looking around, getting confused when the pony's eyes he was talking to suddenly turned green, and his body started to shift and morph, resembling the shadow of a great serpent type of dragon, with antlers for horns.

"Oh Shootie, that's so mean. Did you already forget about me?" The dragon baby talked as vines and flowers started to spring from everywhere around the pegasus as he glared at the shadow dragoness in front of him.

"Desire," He spat in anger. "Where is my spy?"

"He's right here" she split open half of her chest like it was a jacket illuminating the room with bioluminescent purple light coming from moss inside her body, and in the middle of it was the unicorn stallion in a ninja outfit concealing his face. He hung there with a dopey smile and vacant eyes, occasionally chuckling as vines and flowers restrained his body. "Don't worry, he's fine. I just wanted to flex my magic a little, and the poor guy seemed so lonely."

"Desire, this wasn't part of our deal!" He accused angrily, making the dragon simply chuckle and snake around him. "Aww, don't be mad, Shootie, if it helps you feel better, I haven't broken our arrangement in the slightest" Suddenly, Sharp Shot felt his neck grabbed from behind with a vine tail as he was lifted to hang in the air as the dragon smiled impishly bringing them face to face. "But I can't let you get in my way. I'm having way too much fun so far, and I haven't even sent the invitations out for the party yet." She started to pet his head as he struggled to get free. "Don't worry. You can come too if you wish. I'm a benevolent spirit. After all, you simply will have to be fashionably late."

"What?… Are you doing?" Sharp questioned in surprise as he kept straining to break free.

"Just tying up loose ends, I can't let you get in the way after all. Neither you, my crazy brother or that pompous cheap copy stepping into my turf, no, that won't do at all. So I thought that as good friends, you could do ME a favor and keep Discord, her and her family busy with a lesson in true love while I work."

"I'm no one's flunkey!" He yells in repulsion at what she is implying

"Oh Shootie, don't be a grumpy gus, yes I know how the first time is always a mess and can even be a pinch scary, but I promise you I will be gentle." Snapping her fingers, a tiny black flower appeared from thin air with a sharp end on its stem. "And who knows, you might even enjoy it." She then stabbed him in the heart with the flower. Surprisingly the action doesn't hurt at all, and instead, Sharp only felt a slightly odd sensation coming from his heart and working its way to the rest of his body.

"See? It wasn't that bad, was it?"

"What did you do to me?" He asked in surprise and fear, grabbing the flower and trying to pull it out to no avail. Not only that, but he could feel his body being slowly covered in leaves, moss, and wood-like armor.

"I just did some gardening, now rest my little seed." she tossed a bag full of golden sand into his face that knocked him out cold instantly. She then picked him up and delicately placed him in his bed as the flora kept growing and expanding over his body. "Rest and grow big and strong, so when you are ready, you will show that pink cheap knockoff princess who keeps calling herself the mare of love what real love looks like, yeah that sure will catch the attention of Discord. Oh, and I'm taking your spy too, you don't mind, don't you? I've simply grown attached to the little guy." She kept laughing until she disappeared into the shadows as the flower kept adding more pieces onto his layers of skin and armor, which soon started to resemble a black tuxedo.

Meanwhile, at the entrance of the crystal empire. Hurricane stopped and turned around to see the two Centurians. "I'm sure you are aware that once we leave the empire, we will be completely off the grid, right?"

"This isn't our first tracking mission, ma'am. We know how to re-establish contact and fend for ourselves without communication." Amber reassured her.

"Just making sure." Hurricane nodded, and they continued to advance, but she stopped them once more by extending both of her wings. "Remember, no matter how easy or even desirable it might be. You don't want to cross that line. Trust me when I say it is not worth it." She reminded them once more before turning around and kept advancing. "Please keep that in your mind at all times."

Amber looked at the edge of the town before looking at Stellar, who did the same "Ready?"

She nodded with a determined smile.

"Then let go hunt a hitstud," Amber reiterated, and they took the first step out of the city together, heading into the frozen badlands.
> An Honest Earning (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Oh, I’m so gonna miss this the most," Blueblood whispered, tightening the hug he had with his aunt Celestia as she did the same, milking the moment as much as she could while chuckling.

"Come on, sweetie, no need to overreact. You will only be gone for two weeks," Celestia told him with her eyes closed.

"Says the mare who is refusing to let him go," Luna remarked with a deadpan look and a raised eyebrow.

"If it's a crime caring for my nephew, then arrest me." Celestia snapped back, ending the hug as he went and did the same to Luna, much to her surprise, "Don't worry, auntie, I'm gonna miss you too." Recovering from her initial shock, she smiled and returned the gesture. However, hers was a shorter hug, "As if the coolest aunt in Equestria would ever lose touch with her nephew. We can talk every night when you sleep." She whispered, but then she saw the smirk on her sister's face, resulting in Luna glaring at her. "Shut up"

Chuckling again, Celestia shook her head before levitating and securing Blueblood's backpack on him. "Do you have anything ready, sweetie? Extra blankets? Some travel rations? Feather and quills? Reading material?"

"Come on, auntie, I'm just visiting Ponyville for a week and then off to a hotel in Las Pegasus for another one. It's not like I'm going out on a camping trip. I'm pretty sure I'm not even going to need half of what you packed in here." He commented, tapping his backpack, before looking back up to see her giving him a lethal dose of puppy eyes "…but yes, all checked and ready, auntie, thank you for helping me pack."

"That's my boy" She kissed his forehead. "Have fun with your cousin, listen to every piece of advice she and her friends might have, and oh! While you are there. Would you check on a friend of mine that has been staying with Fluttershy for a while now? Her name is Philomena, and I don't think you two have formally met yet. This sounds like an excellent opportunity for you two to meet while making sure she is ok."

"Consider it done, auntie, and you too, have fun on your two-day trip to the spa with aunt Tempo. Tell her I said hi when you see her."

"Will do" They waved goodbye as the sisters watched their nephew go to the waiting chariot outside the castle and headed off to Ponyville. Once gone, Luna dropped her smile and sighed. "And with that, the easy part is over."

"Are you sure you will be ok, Luna? If you wish, I could cancel my trip so we could look into the case…." Luna stopped her before she could finish.

"I'm sure I can handle it, Tia. I'm so close to finding the killer on my own." She looked forward in determination before turning her head and looked at Celestia. "And you said it yourself. Something needs to be done with Crossfire Tempo right now before whatever is affecting her condition at that spa of hers worsens or becomes an even bigger issue. I mean, nonuplets? I find it hard to believe that a single mare could still be alive after birthing nine identical fillies at the same time…or not breaking headlines with the act itself. For them to also decide to work at Tempo's spa and don't have any form of visible individuality other than agreeing to become her elite flying squad while remaining anonymous? That is quite possibly the weakest excuse I have ever heard in my life, which only keeps adding questions to the pile if they aren't changelings. If not that, then what else could they possibly be? No, it would be best if you went there, Tia. Go and solve whatever is going on at that spa. Save your friend. I will solve this regicide once and for all."

They both nodded and took different paths until Celestia stopped to look at her sister. "If anything happens, don't hesitate to call me. My link is always open, Lulu."

"You will be the first one to know Tia, I promise, but for now, there are a couple of pointed questions I need to ask certain maids." Luna replied before disappearing around a corner down another hallway as Celestia resumed her march as well.

Don't worry, old friend. I'm on my way.

Later that day at Sweet Apple Acres

Wiping some sweat from her forehead, Applejack admired the ring of baskets filled with apples from a well-placed buck at the tree before noticing a chariot descending and making its way towards the farm entrance.

Ah, right on time. AJ smiled once she saw the figure of Blueblood disembark and wave goodbye to the pegasi that brought him as they made their way back to Canterlot. He then turned and headed to the front gate to the farm.

It's time for some good old-fashioned Apple hospitality. "Howdy, Blueblood! Welcome back to Sweet Apple Acres. I hope you're ready to experience the Apple family's well-known hospitality and some of our more famous dishes." She then noticed his backpack and cocked her head in confusion for a moment, "Uh, you know that a sleepover is not the same as a camping trip, right?"

Blueblood chuckled at her comment, "I know it's a bit much, but Aunt Celestia insisted, and what can I say? She wanted me to be well prepared, so she decided to pack a bit extra for the sleepover."

"Hate to break to you partner, but not even Rarity would consider THAT 'a bit extra'. Are you sure she didn't hide a kitchen sink in there?"

Blueblood can't help but laugh. "Good one, AJ, and come on is not that much. Yeah, she might have gotten a little carried away, but well, you know how aunts can get at times."

"Aunts? Yeah, Princess aunts? Not so much, but hey, I'll just mark this one down as her still having a bit of a 'mommy fever.'" She finished with a smile before turning around and heading to the door. "Now, let's go get you settled and say hi to the rest of the family, sugar cube."

"Lead the way" Blueblood followed along. Sure enough, once inside, he was greeted by Applejack's pet dog, Winona. She didn't waste time barking and circling around the Prince, seeking his attention and sniffing his hooves in equal measure while wagging her tail in excitement.

"Looks like Winona still remembers you." AJ said warmly with a chuckle as he stopped to pet the dog on the head.

"What can I say? Animals like me."

"Blueblood!" Applebloom called as she rushed into the room before hugging his chest, making him laugh.

"Hi Applebloom, been a while, hasn't it?"

"Uh-huh, did you come to have more lessons with the crusaders and me and Ms. Cheerlie? Oh, will you use that fancy necklace of yours to turn yourself into a colt again? Oh! We can invite you up to the clubhouse! It will be fun!" He smiled and patted her head.

"I'll admit, that sounds like fun. Maybe we can do that some other time, though." Looking up, he saw AJ standing with a raised eyebrow. "Don't worry. I have been practicing some meditation techniques. So no, sorry, Applebloom, but today I'm just here to have a sleepover with Applejack. Also, to ask for some friendly advice for a meeting I will be having with other princes and princesses, and lastly, to spend time with her without needing to have an emergency for us to talk, that is all."

"Aww?" Applebloom let him go dejected before seeing between the two.

"That is right, Applebloom. I wanted to show him our famous Apple family hospitality and, as he said, just spend time without needing to be in the middle of a crisis to do so." As she approached the pair, Applejack confirmed. Neither mare noticed how when their shadows merged with the Princes, a small pink heart shape appeared quickly before vanishing.

Applebloom then gasped and held her cheeks before looking at AJ, much to her confusion, "Is it because you want him to be your colt friend, sis!?"

"What!? No, I…" AJ tried to stop her, but Applebloom was already gone. "Granny Smith! Big Mac! Come quickly! Applejack got a coltfriend!"

"She did?!" The rest of the family screamed from the other room as Applebloom kept calling and rushed inside with Winona chasing her, Applejack not far behind, blushing profusely. "No, I didn't! She is lying! Don't believe her!" Applejack tried to protest while chasing her little sister.

Blueblood can only blink in surprise at what he just observed for a couple of moments before shrugging and chuckling a little.

Earth or Equestria, it looks like siblings will always be siblings. Oh well, better clear the air before the rest of the family gets the wrong impression.

Following the sisters, the Prince headed to where there seemed to be a commotion in the household. To try and help put out any metaphorical fires that might have sprung up, all while his shadow smirked briefly before turning to normal.

The rest of the day went by as usual. After clearing the air and saying hi to Applejack's grandma Granny Smith an elderly green pony, and her brother, Big Macintosh, a broad and tall red pony, things went back to normal. Applejack and her guest enjoyed the rest of the day in peace while only being teased on occasion, primarily by her sister and granny. In comparison, Big Mac decided to settle with giving murderous glares to the Prince while gluing himself to Applejack's side to her exhaustion… and at one-time chagrin when he almost followed her into the bathroom.

"For pony's sake, Big Mac, give me some space!" Blueblood heard from the bottom floor how AJ screamed before hearing what sounded like a kick, followed by a loud tod and a groan of pain and air leaving the lungs from Big Mac. Moments later, AJ walked downstairs and grabbed Blueblood's hoof, practically dragging him outside. "We are going for some air Granny. Big Mac needs a bag of frozen beans for his eggs." AJ informed without looking, causing both Bloom and the Prince to flinch while Granny only shrugged.

"Eh, serves him right, never irk a mare or follow her to the toilet. It's creepy, and now he knows what will happen." Granny commented, taking out a bag of said beans.

"So sorry about my family." Applejack finally said in embarrassment with a hint of pink on her cheeks as they strolled through the apple trees in an attempt to escape her family's relentless teasing. "Normally, they are a lot calmer with guests. I have no idea why they are suddenly all over my flank about my romantic life." That comment made the prince stop and look at her confused and with a raised eyebrow.

"That came out wrong! That's not what this is! I mean, they never care who I date, I mean! They never wanted to know about the subject!" She was quick to correct herself twice before grunting in frustration. "What in tarnation is happening to me!" she yelled at herself.

"Applejack, Applejack calm down!" The Prince was quick to react. "Relax, I understand. Families will always be like that, enjoying the teasing and whatnot. I imagine it's their way of adjusting to you having your first boy/girl sleepover, right?"

"You might be onto something, partner. I simply just don't get it. What's the big deal with having one with a stallion? Why the all of the sudden jumps to conclusions?"

"Beats me. One would think they would have more faith in you." Blueblood replied with a shrug. "Better not overthink it. I'm sure they will calm down once the surprise wears off."

"Yeah, you are right. Let's just keep this thing going." AJ nodded and smiled before they resumed their walk, "You said something about asking me for some advice?"

"Yeah, you could call it a semi-crash course in friendship before I go off to meet with other royals like me wanting to improve their nations."

"Hmm, I'm not sure I could be of much help to you with that partner. That sounds more like Twilight's field of expertise."

"I understand, but what I'm talking about needs a bit of all six elements. In your case, how much should I tell them." The Prince clarified

"What do you mean sugar cube?" She asked as they reached a good spot to sit and observe the farm from afar on top of a hill

Blueblood looked around them to make sure no one was listening before focusing his attention on Applejack. "AJ, what I'm about to tell you is something you have to promise that you will not tell a soul. This is something I didn't even dare tell the rulers of the other nations for fear of causing a catastrophe."

"Wow, sounds big. You can count on me, partner. My lips are sealed."

"Thanks, ok, here it goes. That trick you've probably heard that I pulled in Manehattan? The truth is that it was a combination of two factors: One is that the criminals I was facing were complete morons with no sense or idea on how to keep their money safe, and the second was that I used some tricks and marketing strategies from my previous life."

"So you broke the law?"

"It's…kind of a gray area." He confessed with a degree of uncertainty. "I mean…if you commit a crime that doesn't have a law for it yet, is it considered a crime? You could consider this being more like payback to those that wanted to destroy the businesses of anyone who wanted to earn an honest living."

"That sounds like a good thing on my book, sugar cube, you should share those fancy tricks of yours, so those snakes think twice before messing around with ponies who only want to make an honest earning."

"Trust me, Applejack, nothing would make me happier, but therein lies the problem."

"Huh?"

He sighed and looked ahead. "It's a long and complicated story from my previous world, but the short version is that a long time ago, Earth had this terrible, years-long disaster call the great depression where people lost their money, work, and even houses. The price for food?… Well, it skyrocketed to insane amounts. for example…." He looked around until he found and pointed out an apple on the ground "That apple over there having to go from costing, say two bits, to two thousand each."

"2 thousand bits for a single apple?!" AJ screeched in terror, standing bolt upright.

"I know it's horrible, and that was life for years. As a result, laws and regulations were invented and implemented to avoid repeating that disaster. This, however, forced those who wished to trick ponies out of their bits or make them work for them until they were sucked completely dry of everything they had to get smarter and more powerful. And that is the root of my plight, Applejack. On one hoof, I found out how what I know can be used for good. To combat those that would oppress others, to help small businesses thrive in the face of adversity. It may even help the entire world become prosperous and have what you and your family already have." He stood up and gestured over the farm.

"A cozy and warm house, a table full of food, a secure way of living, doing what you love in honest earning. A family that doesn't have to struggle, that is my dream Applejack, is what I wish for Equestria, what I want for the world, a future where the word 'homeless' becomes a term to refer to someone that likes to camp or live outdoors by choice alone. It is this ideology that I wish to share with other rulers and spread worldwide," He tells in enthusiasm before looking down.

"But what if this is just wishful thinking? What if I'm right and honest provoke a chain reaction that ends in a great depression…or, even worse, give rise to the kind of individuals that raised me in my previous world? I would never be able to live with myself if I caused that. Applejack, what should I do? Should I be honest and share everything I know? Or would it be best if this remained a secret?"

The farmer remained silent, deep in thought, before reaching a conclusion and regarding the Prince neutrality. "I think you should keep doing what you did in Manehattan with those rulers." She replied without hesitation.

"You mean lie to them?"

"No, I mean to share what you know gradually and just when and what needs to be shared, partner." She elaborated, "You said it yourself. What you know can and will work, but only if you introduce it step by step. And teach it to the right ponies." She started to walk until reaching the base of an apple tree. "Think of it like this, that fancy economic mumbo jumbo you just told me sounds a lot like bucking apple trees, and hitting it is like sharing what you know. You hit too soft…." She barely tapped it, and other than some leaves, just one apple fell. one that was already rotten and barely hanging. "…and you barely get anything, a gamble where you could even get a rotten apple." She picked it up and tossed the bad apple into a compost barrel. "You hit too hard, and you get all of what you told me about." She bucked a nearby boulder, and Blueblood was about to stop her only to see the rock shatter into pieces by the sheer force of the kick.

Bless that brutal earth pony strength. I don't even want to know what her brother is capable of doing. Blueblood pondered in surprise by the display.

"But you hit it just right" she bucks the tree once more with a modest amount of force, making all the apples fell in the barrel below. Before she steps forward, she plucks out two. "And you get the juiciest and most delicious of the harvest." She said with confidence passing him one of the apples "you get it now?" She smirked, taking a bite of the remaining apple.

The Prince smiled and nodded before taking a bite as well before replying, "I do, thanks, Applejack."

"Anytime sugar cube, and hey, if you are still unsure if you should share something, just invite me over so I can rat out any no good lying varmints in the crowd."

"You would do that for me?"

"Sure I would. I like that idea of yours partner, a world where everyone can enjoy the fruits of their labor without worrying about rattlesnakes and be proud of a hard day of honest work? That sounds like an Equestria I would love to live on."

"Thank you, AJ. You're a good friend, and if you or your family ever need some help with crunching numbers or wanting to earn some more, don't be afraid to ask. I would be more than happy to help." He smiled and extended his hoof as AJ completed the gesture. "I will keep that in mind, partner, those numbers can be a real pain in the flank, so having some extra help would be appreciated." The moment Applejack touched his hooves, she went stiff as she felt a strange jolt of electricity flow through her body.

What in tarnation was that just now?! AJ looked at their hooves and couldn't help but stare at Blueblood, before shifting her gaze to look at the rest of his body. Wow, I never noticed before, but it sure shows how much he trains. I bet he could buck appletrees like no other. I think I'm starting to see what the whole deal was with Coco and…wait, what?!

"Applejack?" Blueblood's voice snapped her back to reality, and she noticed how he was looking at her with concern. "Everything alright?"

"Y…Yeah, yeah! I just ah got lost in thought for a second there, not sure why though?" She ended the gesture and looked down in thought before shrugging. "Ah, it's probably nothing. Now let's go. It's almost dinner time, and you don't want to miss Granny's famous apple pie."

"Sure, but before we go, I was wondering, do you mind if I…." He pointed to another apple tree, causing her to smile and roll her eyes "…sure, knock yourself out, but be careful ok? I don't want you breaking a leg now."

"Thanks!" He went and stood behind the tree. "Ok, so how does it work?"

"Eh, there's not much science behind it, just reach down, wiggle your hips, and try to aim for the center and get as close as possible."

"Got it, ok here goes nothing" He did as instructed and lined up his back legs before giving the three a good buck that shook it up pretty good and let loose a respectable number of apples, although it didn't get them all. "Hey! Not bad"

Not bad indeed. Unicorns don't usually bother to train their bodies all that much, not when they have that fancy horn of theirs. But he doesn't seem afraid of getting his hooves dirty, and those legs of him sure are something. AJ's thoughts confused her once more, surprising her before she shook her head. "You lack a bit of force, but hey, that is more of an earth pony thing. How are your legs?"

"Not going to lie, they feel a bit numb. Do you do this every day repeatedly?"

"Eeyup, from dawn to dusk"

"Wow, no wonder you could pulverize that boulder like it was made of butter, Applejack you are amazing!"

She chuckles and scratches the back of her head with some pink in her cheeks. "Ah shucks, don't start with that now, Blueblood. Now come on, before Granny sends Big Mac and I have to deck him again." She half-joked as they resumed their walk.

"Right behind you" Blueblood caught up with her, and the rest of the way, they spent in silence as Applejack kept taking occasional glances at him.

Ok, seriously, what is going on with me?! Since when do I get all flustered like a filly from a simple compliment? And why do I keep looking at his body like he is some kind of apple fritter? I must have been working under the sun for too long to be acting like this. Taking another glance, she gulped when she found herself ogling at his frame, making her shake her head once more. Yeah, I've been under the sun for way too long. I need to drink some water… some frigid ice water.

They continued marching, neither noticing how in Applejack shadow the heart from earlier appeared and pulsated, enveloping the silhouette before vanishing in a burst of low pink light. In the distance, the shadowy head of a dragon with antlers watched everything unfold hidden inside of one of the three tops, tittered lightly before starting to vanish

~you are lying to yourself, ~ She thought before disappearing completely.
> First Invite (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Knocking on the door, Mist and Clean Breeze waited in front of Princess Luna's office chambers. "Enter," the princess command with finality. Swiftly complying, both mares entered the room where the princess was waiting for them, sitting behind a desk. "You called for us, your highness?" Mist asked warily.

"Indeed I did, ladies, please have a seat." She invited them both to sit in chairs in front of her. Not wanting to make the situation any more tense than it already was, they complied and did just that, signaling for Luna to continue. "The reason I called for you two is that I wanted to ask you a couple of questions regarding my nephew's…incident six months ago."

"Oh, you mean when he suddenly woke up with amnesia?" Clean Breeze suddenly spoke more casually, relaxing a little — much to the unease of her partner, who could only glare at her for lacking proper etiquette. Luckily the princess didn't seem to mind her forwardness as she nodded at her.

"The same. As well as some of the purchases the Prince acquired weeks before the event that we believe are the real source of his amnesia. Weeks in which you both were on duty as his maids."

At this revelation, all the color drained from Clean's face as she realized that her little trick to skip duty was about to be uncovered. Her expression caught the attention of the princess, who raised an eyebrow. "You were on duty those weeks, were you not?"

"Well…then you see…." A Clean started to sweat while playing with her frontal hooves, trying to come up with a solution. Unfortunately, before she could say anything, her partner already had an answer for her.

"She exchanged most of her first two weeks serving with a new butler recruit and only was present for the final week before the incident." Mist tells Luna diplomatically as Clean could only look back poleaxed and utterly white in horror with how her friend just came clean and revealed her little... escapes. Clean Breeze slowly turned about with a stiff body to see the princess regard her emotionlessly until finally, she sighs in exhaustion. "I can't exactly blame too much for your behavior."

With color slowly creeping back into her face, she looks at the princess as if she was a ray of hope, with watering eyes. "Your highness"

"I wouldn't advise you to relax much, miss. You are still in trouble." Clean stiffened again at the princess's sharp glare. "We will discuss the correct reprimand for dodging your responsibilities at a later time, but for now, there is a more pressing matter. And you are in luck. It was the last week that I'm in the most interested in." Gulping Clean could only nod in understanding. At the same time, Luna stood up and, walking to the side of her desk, used her magic to conjure the armor set that was previously in Bluebloods room on full display so both mares could see it. "Tell me, ladies, do either of you recall where my nephew purchased this?"

"The set of armor?" Mist questioned with a raised eyebrow before looking at Breeze, "I think you were there when he won it, right?"

"More like stole it if you ask me." Clean replied in exasperation, with the memories still fresh and recovering from the scare.

"Care to clarify?" Luna looked at both with a quirked eyebrow, and Clean nodded. "He didn't buy that from any store. That set was one of the articles being auctioned at an event the Prince went to during one of his shopping sprees. He kept betting ridiculous amounts of bits to scare anyone else away from what he wanted. By Celestia, everyone was giving him the stink eye by the time he was done." She sighed in frustration. "And of course, I was then stuck carrying his other acquisitions and then 'placing it correctly' once it arrived."

That comment caught the princess's attention. "Excuse me, did you say 'place it correctly'?"

"Another of the Prince's insane eccentricities that his group of friends always suggested. like how that thing had to 'always be facing west with the helmet pointing at the window at a 90-degree angle straight forward, hugging the very center of the west wall.' Just another ridiculous thing nobles do all the time."

That is it! Whoever gave him that advice is the killer! They must have given instructions to my nephew to set up his own death trap. They practically arranged everything so he would kill himself! Luna reasoned, and she started to piece together everything. I'm so close. I only need the name.

"Miss Breeze, you don't know it yet, but what you just told me has helped a great deal in solving this mystery. I only need you to answer me one final question."

"Of course, anything, your highness."

"Who was the pony that gave those instructions to my nephew?"

"I'm sorry, princess. I couldn't see his face and only managed to hear his voice because right after winning everything in the auction, the Prince just gave me the list and shoved me outside to claim his prizes. That is why I know it was a he."

"I see, that is alright, Miss Breeze. That information can be of use too."

"Is there anything else we can do for you, princess?" Mist asked, and Luna shook her head. "That will be all ladies. You two are dismissed, Miss Breeze. We will discuss the terms of your punishment later on, but do not fret; I will see what I can do to decrease their severity as much as possible."

"Thank you, your highness," Breeze gratefully replied as the two mares left the room, with Breeze giving a stink eye to Mist. "Can't believe you ratted me out!"

"You need to be disciplined a little. You haven't taken your job seriously for a while now."

Luna could hear them bickering for a while before they were both gone, leaving her alone with her thoughts.

The killer was definitely in that auction event. If I find the list of attendance. I find the killer. I better speak with the crew in charge of transportation. Somepony must have tampered with that armor before it arrived here. Luna deduced before making the proper arrangements.

The next day back at Ponyville

Stretching his body awake, the Prince made his way to the dining room, where the rest of the apples were making their breakfast while chatting with one another. "Morning, everyone," Blueblood greeted them as they noticed him with mild surprise.

"Morning, dearie, did you sleep well last night?" Granny questioned as she doesn't waste time giving him a plate and inviting him to sit with the rest of the family, even helping him with a good portion of all sorts of apple treats.

"Like a log, I don't know how you do it, but boy, after such incredible home cooking and with that cozy bed of yours, I slept well last night." He answered while respectfully gesturing for her to stop putting stuff on his plate.

"Ah shucks, aren't you the sweetest dear?"

Granny chuckled before standing back and continuing with her meal.

"Ah, didn't know you were also an early bird Blueblood," Applejack commented, impressed. "I was sure you would be snoring for a couple of hours more before waking up."

"Eh, it's something that I am accustomed to, to be honest, with my usual duties, I normally wake pretty early daily."

"Wow, really?" Applebloom was half impressed, half surprised by the statement.

"Well, it is not all that necessary, but what can I say? I like to have a head start with things. Now that I'm getting more involved at home, helping my aunties run the country. I usually start by taking some of their mountains of paperwork and separate the more urgent matters from those that can wait. Then I see if I can fix minor problems here and there. You get the picture." The Prince tried to explain as best as possible, "I don't want to bore you with the details." He takes a glass of milk while Applejack did the same and takes a sip from it as Granny nods.

"Huh, early bird, hard-working, knows the worth of due diligence, isn't afraid of dirty his hooves, and good family stallion? Eeyup, you earn the granny seal of approval. You would make one heck of an Apple, dear."

At the same time, both he and Applejack choked on their milk at the comment. The only difference being how overt their reactions were. While the Prince managed to contain himself, Applejack spat, sputtered, and looked at her grandma with an intense blush "Granny!"

"Yay! Granny approves," Applebloom exclaimed

"Nope!" Big Mac voiced his objections while glaring at the Prince as he coughed, trying to recover his breath from the shock. "I beg you pardon?" The Prince finally managed to recover and looked to the elderly mare for clarification.

"Oh shucks, don't play coy with me, Applejack. I once was young and in love when I was your age. The only thing I would expect is for you to choose a good stud that isn't afraid to get his hooves dirty and is willing to work for his earnings. something this young fellow knows about." Granny told with a chuckle. Making Big Mac visibly fume with anger and inch his way towards the Prince until Granny stopped his advance with a thrown spoon. never breaking eye contact with Blueblood. "And if Big Mac ever wants to eat another one of my meals again, he will stop this ridiculous big brother act of his and let Applejack date whoever she likes, just like she had no quarrel with him dating Sugar Belle, this instant!"

That seems to snap him out of his anger, and he looked at her in horror. "But Granny…!"

"You wanna test me, big boy?" Granny finally stop looking at the Prince to glare at Big Mac, halting anything he was about to say, "Just because you can give me great-grandkids doesn't mean I don't want the same from Applejack."

"Ok! And with that, we're leaving!" AJ, utterly red at this point, stood up and took Blueblood with her as she rushed out the door. The Prince tried to grab as much food as possible while Granny waved at them. "Have fun, you two."

"For the last time, we are only friends!" AJ finally screamed as they galloped away from the room, making a quick stop in the guest room to grab the Prince's belongings and then going to the farm front gate as the elder pony only chuckle and rolled her eyes.

"Aw, young love, poor guy, that Blue fellow is gonna have a heck of a time taming that stubborn mare." Big Mac only looked away with a grumble making Granny glare at him. "What was that, Big Mac?!"

"Nothing Granny Smith" He responded dejectedly

"That is what I thought."

While that was happening, Applejack kept apologizing for what transpired. "I'm so sorry, please ignore them. I swear this is not how they usually act." AJ tried to explain.

"It…It's ok, I suppose I mean, families like to tease, so I imagine your family…ah likes to tease a bit more than necessary?"

"Yeah! Exactly that! I swear I will give them an earful later but thank you so much for understanding, partner." AJ breathed easier, relieve by his understanding, before glaring back at the house. "What the heck is the deal with them?! All of a sudden, getting interested in my personal love life, and what not?" She had to stop herself once she heard herself before finally laying on the ground with a frustrated grunt, "I didn't mean it like that!"

The Prince had to take a step away to let her vent and had her moment taking a glance at Winona, who rushed from her house to them both and stopped to look at her owner as soon as she fell to the ground. "There, there, Applejack, it's ok. I know you didn't mean for it to sound like that." Blueblood mentions patting her back as Winona whined and sniffed her face before licking it a couple of times in worry, helping her somewhat.

"But I don't understand why this keeps happening. I have never had this kind of problem before." AJ looked up at him, confused and slightly scared about what the Prince was seeing. Yet, he smiled. "Oh, I know why that happens."

"You do?" Her eyes were wide, and she stood up, and he nodded and helped her clean up. "It has various names, according to who you ask. I call it a swarm syndrome, and it happens when a group of peo…ah ponies, in this case, act or do something altogether. For example, let say you are just walking down the road doing nothing but minding your own business, suddenly a large group of ponies appear and start walking all around you, seemly doing just the same, then all of the sudden you hear one pony saying a command like kneel, or down or something of the sort and the group stops and does exactly that, leaving you right in the center, as you copy them"

"Why the hay would I do that?" AJ asks with a raised eyebrow, yet he merely shrugs "pack mentality mostly, everyone does it, so subconsciously you want to do the same. Like your brain starts to pick up the signals that the community is kneeling for a reason. Like maybe there is danger, or you need to hide or something of the sort. You are unsure, but you know they are all doing it for a reason, so you comply, although with a delayed reaction. And that is what happened back there."

He explained, pointing back at the house, "Your family started teasing and mentioned the subject of dating, colt friends, grandchildren, and the like? It was just a matter of time that all that talk would start to stick in here." He lightly poked her head to give her the idea. "You don't know it, but the memory stays fresh in your mind, so when you're trying to talk normally, those things just kind of slip, you understand now?"

"Yeah…yeah, I think so, I simply let all that teasing get in my head, that all." She nodded a couple of times in realization. "Thanks, partner. I was starting to freak out at how out of nowhere I was having such a hard time speaking normally."

"Ah, it was nothing, and relax. Those things happen. You only need to do your usual thing and let all those thoughts wash over you like water." Winona barked in agreement as AJ petted her head.

"No problem, I'm sure just a day of harvesting and doing some chores will fix me right up!"

"That's what I like to hear because those apple pies, fritters, and other plates last night were scrumptious, and I wouldn't mind having a second portion." He licked his lips at the idea making her chuckle.

"Maybe some other time, for now though, you better get. You wouldn't want to waste daylight, right?"

"Right! See you another time AJ and thanks again for the advice."

"Anytime sugar cube" Both went for a hoof bump, but something on the floor made AJ trip, causing Blueblood to bring her forward and turn it into a hug with their hooves pressing against his chest. "Oh, a hug then? O…Ok," Blueblood mentioned, slightly taken aback by the sudden forwardness of Applejack as he hugged her back, making her flinch at his touch, and her heart beat faster. At the same time, mentally thanking Celestia that the Prince couldn't see her blushing face she knew was sporting right now. "I had a great time, Applejack. We really should do this again sometime."

"Y-your is welcome, sugar cube," AJ said on impulse as she started to close her eyes and enjoy the interaction before realizing what she was doing, jumping back and turning away. "A-Anyway! I have some work to do, so I better be on my way too, have fun at Fluttershy's!" Applejack called out, practically galloping away from him as fast as she could, leaving him blinking as he watched her go with Winona giving chase.

Did Applejack get flustered? No, I must be seeing things. This is Applejack we are talking about. She doesn't get flustered. Blueblood shook his head and decided to be on his way to his second sleepover at Fluttershy's cottage.

Meanwhile, Applejack kept running as fast as she could until she left the farm, found a nearby lake, and threw herself in it, screaming into the water before swimming back up to the surface and the shore.

"What in tarnation is happening to me?! Why I'm acting this weird? It was a bucking hug for Celestia's sake! Why did it felt that good!? And why o why on Lunas big moon did I sniff him? What, am I a dog now? AH!" She kept thrashing in the water for a good while until eventually she calmed down and looked at her reflection

"What the heck has gotten into me? I can't have those mushy emotions. That's not me at all."

"Would it be that bad having those kinds of feelings partner?" AJ's eyes widened in surprise when she saw her reflection taking back at her. "What's the matter with you? You've always been honest with yourself and have nothing to hide. So why in tarnation all these secrets and lies to yourself? Just because it's in your name doesn't make you an actual apple. Of course, you have emotions, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with having those feelings!" The reflection consoled AJ as she closed her eyes and nodded,

"Yeah…yeah, that is right! I'm a mare, gosh darn it! Of course, I can have those mushy thoughts too, so what about it? But why now?" She said with determination before starting to question herself. "In all my life, not once did I have any interest of dating, special someponies, or any of that fancy mushy stuff. So why all of a sudden I'm acting like a filly with her first crush?"

"Because you haven't met someone like Blueblood before." the reflection responded. "Sure, there were others, and sure it was flattering, but they didn't have the right stuff, but him on the other hoof? By Celestia, Granny was right. He is a decent stallion, a hard-working fellow, a big heart…."

…And hooves that could crack a boulder." AJ started to smile with a dopey face and another blush forming, shivering in delight 

"Why in tarnation did it take me this long to figure it out!? That fellow is a catch and a half. I need to catch him. No…I need to tell him, No, I need…I need to talk with Granny Smith."

AJ held her head and exited the lake, her head now a hurricane of emotions as she was unsure of where to go from here as Winona finally caught up to her and stopped once she saw the state her master was in. Suddenly the canine was alerted to something invisible, and she started growling at a tree near Applejack. The mare was too deep in thought to notice any of that she would have seen the silhouette of a dragon hiding in the treetops smiling at her work.

One down, She then looked at the horizon in the direction of Ponyville. Look out, ladies! ~He will put a spell on you~ She cackled before disappearing while Winona kept barking in alarm.
> Kind Yet Stern Approach (Edited By BS And NS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stepping out of her carriage, Celestia looked at Equestria's greatest spa center, which, in contrast with the desert surrounding it, gave the impression of being a mirage at first glance. Surrounded by five imposing and unnaturally tall and thick tropical palm trees laid out in a star pattern was a luxurious blue villa with three floors encircled by a crystal clear lake coming from two small clouds cascading streams of water from their sides like a waterfall and domed rooftops. Banners and marble pillars were lined up outside of the front door with a long red carpet in between them, giving any visitors a glamorous and high-class first impression as they walked inside their massive wooden doors where even far from the entrance, the Princess could feel a cool breeze washing over her body. Her nostrils could detect the faint smell of lilac and cinnamon, making the place all the more enticing.

The Golden Oasis, the most fabulous spa in all of Equestria, I'm beginning to see how it lives up to its name. The entrance alone screams high class and relaxation. Celestia pondered as she advanced to the door until a polite cough caught her attention, and looking back, she took a glance at the exhausted pegasi that carried her all the way here, filling her with pity and quickly came up with an idea.

"Gentlestallions," Celestia called, making the two pegasi stand to attention and salute her. "Thank you for providing a swift, fast and pleasant ride here from Canterlot, I understand that the trek wasn't particularly short, and for putting such effort into pulling the chariot during the whole trip, I'm deeply grateful."

"It was our pleasure, your highness." One of the guards replied

"If asked, we would be more than happy to take you to the badlands and back if you had ordered us." The other adds.

"Oh my goodness, no, a trip like that would have taken at least a week's worth of flying. I couldn't possibly demand so much from you two. You've more than earned a small break for your trouble." She pointed at the spa behind her with one of her wings. "By all means, feel free to enjoy the facilities while we are here. This is, after all, a two-day visit."

Both stallions' eyes went wide in surprise. "What?! But your highness...!" Any argument the guard was about to voice was quickly silenced by her raising her hoof

"I insist. If not as a form of thanks for bringing me here, then consider it as preparation for our trip back. the journey will be long, and it would be best if you two are well rested and in top condition by the time we head back to Canterlot."

"Understood, your highness, then we will gladly take you up on the offer. Thank you kindly." They both bowed to her, but she could see the slight smile of excitement creeping onto both of their faces making her chuckle internally.

Oh, you two, as stubborn as always, I hope this little treat of mine helps you relax a bit.

With her little good deed done, she resumed her march inside with a solemn expression.

I'm here, old friend, and whatever it is happening, you will not have to face it alone.

Meanwhile, near Fluttershy's Cottage

Humming a little tune, Blueblood made his way towards Fluttershy's cottage and to his second sleepover destination. His mind, wondering what it would be like to spend the night with her and all her little animal friends. As if by chance, he would wake up with one or two of them curling next to him as they shared the same bed, causing him to chuckle

I also promised Aunt Celestia that I will check on her friend, Philomena. Hmm, I wonder who she might be. He pondered while looking up until a series of barks caught his attention. Looking ahead, he was greeted by Fluttershy's herd of puppies, all barking happily and demanding the attention of the Prince, alerting him to the kennel next to Fluttershy cottage, reminding him how he almost went for a dip in the water.

Shaking his head, he smiled and crouched down to look at puppies as they tried to lick him, unable to stay still. "You just wait for the little ones. I will have to reward you later once I have the time." They all barked even more excitedly as he stood tall once more and went to her house, but before he had the chance to knock, the Prince noticed a letter on the front door.

I'm in the back feeding my bird friends, by right back.

Huh, I suppose the early birds beat me to it then. Heh, I wonder how many of those friends Fluttershy has? The Prince asked himself as he made his way to the back of the house and started looking for Fluttershy while saying hello to her other friends on his way. They all looked at him with curiosity or greeted him as he went by. A bat, in particular, flew down and immediately went to greet him. The Prince smiled and petted her head as it chirped in happiness and nuzzled his hoof.

"Hey, I think I remember you! You're one of the bats that Fluttershy took to the school some time ago, right?" The bat chirped and nodded in agreement as she flew to hover at eye level. "Miss Batty, I'm looking for Fluttershy. By any chance, do you know where she is?"

The bat continued to chirp and nodded again before flying away, implying that he would follow her. Blueblood nodded and did just that. His winged companion guided him through various pens of animals until they finally reached a clearing where they found the mare in question. The Prince was about to call for her but stopped when he heard her sing with the birds she was feeding, acting as her accompaniment, entrancing him on the performance.

Not wanting to interrupt, he decided to sit and enjoy the show as the bat that was guiding him landed and lay down on top of one of his hooves, snuggling down to get comfortable. Making him chuckle and pet her back as she whistled in contentment and nuzzled his leg. Soon more of Fluttershy's animal friends started to surround him and sat down next to the Prince. Some out of curiosity, others seeking attention, and even more simply wanting to hear Fluttershy. He couldn't help but feel a tad bit nervous when an adult tiger decided to nuzzle his entire body against him like a giant cat before settling in and resting on his side. Still, the nervousness quickly faded when a group of squirrels climbed on top of the tiger and got comfortable themselves.

These are Fluttershy friends. I shouldn't be so afraid. She would never let them have so much freedom unless she knew they wouldn't harm anyone unless provoked. Testing his luck a bit, he starts to pet the giant cat as well, who seems to be enjoying the attention, and it purrs in contentment, moving around as if to guide his hoof in where it wanted to be petted.

"Blueblood?" The voice of Fluttershy snapped him out of his trance. He looked up to see the pegasus looking at him in confusion as he realized now how the tiger wasn't the only one that had small animals all over his body. Birds, chinchillas, other squirrels, geckos, and even bunnies had piled in to get comfy, and they were using his body as a sort of bed. "Is that you?" she asked, unsure due to all the animals on him acting as some form of camouflage, making it hard to know if she was talking with the Prince in question.

"Hi, Fluttershy," The Prince called, shifting slowly before standing up, much to the dismay of various animals as they got off him and flew or ran away soon after. "Sorry if I startled you. I saw your note and decided to look for you. I didn't know you sing. Why didn't you tell me?"

Immediately after asking, Fluttershy got embarrassed and looked away. "It…a bit of a long story, sorry for not telling you."

"You don't need to apologize. I was just curious. You have an incredible voice. I bet everyone would love to hear…." The Prince stopped once he noticed how uncomfortable Fluttershy was getting as she was retreating within herself more and more—hiding her face under her mane. Telling the Prince all he had to know. "…nevermind, I get it," He told her with a nod, confusing the caretaker as she looked back at him.

"Huh?"

"Don't worry, I understand. It's a shame not sharing such an incredible gift, but this is something you can't or shouldn't force on anyone that doesn't like to sing in front of an audience, forget I said anything."

"N…No! You got it wrong!" Fluttershy suddenly exclaimed, much to the Prince's surprise and confusion at her outburst. Recovering, she looked down and started drawing circles on the dirt. "T-the truth is. I k-kind of would like to s-sing in front of an audience." She confessed in a barely audible whisper before hiding her face once more. "I simply wish I could, but when I think about an audience looking at me watching every single one of my movements..." She physically started to tremble before doing some breathing exercises to calm herself down. "I can get a tiny bit nervous. That is actually why I've been practicing some assertiveness exercises to get past my shyness. One day hopefully, I'll be able to sing in front of others without any more worries."

"Oh! I get it to now, so that is why in the masquerade? Fluttershy, that is incredible! Would you mind letting me know whenever you feel ready? Nothing would make me happier than to see you perform from the front row." The Prince enthusiastically told her, catching her off guard.

"Y-you in a front-row seat? I-in a theater but that means performing in front of a…."

"Oh crap!" Blueblood didn't waste time in doing some damage control. "I meant a clearing! In the middle of the forest, t-think you are performing for just me and your animal friends. No one is watching, just friends, the day is warm, and there is a gentle breeze." He quickly tried to calm her down. Which resulted and Fluttershy stopped being nervous after she closed her eyes and calmed down once more. Before finally opening them and seeing him properly now.

"Thank you, Blueblood, that helped."

"Anytime, the last thing I want is to make you feel uncomfortable. In fact I wanted to talk to you about that."

"What do you mean?" Fluttershy tilted her head, finally noticing his backpack. "And why did you pack so much…oh my, did you perhaps not know much about sleep-overs and thought that they were similar to a campout?" She asked him with a small degree of worry.

"Nah, this is just Aunt Celly getting a bit carried away while helping me pack." He responded with a smile while tapping said backpack. "And what I meant is I know you had your reservations about this whole plan, and Pinkie more or less put you in the spotlight back then. I appreciate that you still decided to agree to it. However, I could use your advice for my meeting. So in order to make things easier for you. I could sleep outside so that I won't bother you?" He then lifted his hoof to show the bat that didn't leave him even when he stood up. "I'm sure your nocturnal friends wouldn't mind keeping me company for a bit, and you can rest more easily."

Much to his surprise, Fluttershy gasped at his suggestion, "What? Oh no, no, Blueblood, you can't do that. What kind of host would I be if I threw you outside during our sleepover?" She was quick to shake her head in disagreement.

"Fluttershy, you don't need to push yourself. It's ok. We can still have a sleepover no matter where I sleep. Besides, Your house only has enough space for one, wouldn't it be better…."

"No, you will be spending the night at my house, and that is final." She said, definitively putting her hoof down hard before smiling at him calmly. "I'm sure we will find a way, and there will be no problems at all. We can even share my bed if there isn't any space." The comment took the Prince off guard as he blinked a couple of times owlishly at the pegasus. The realization of what she just said finally sunk in. Her eyes widened, and her feathers ruffled a little.

"I–I mean couch! I mean, floor! I mean…we will figure something out!" She finally managed to say, trying to calm down.

Wow, it happened again? What are the odds of that?…although hers makes more sense considering the kiss accident. The Prince pondered with a small degree of embarrassment and awkwardness at the memory of their little event.

Once calmed down, the caretaker was able to continue, "Please don't go outside. I appreciate the gesture, and it's very kind of you to consider my feelings, but in reality, it will only make me feel bad. The idea of putting my comfort over yours."

He sighed in resignation and nodded, "If you are sure about it, then ok. We will think of something."

"Thank you, and don't worry, there's plenty of time. I'm sure we will find the space and have a good time. In the meantime, why don't we go to my sanctuary for a while? You can tell me how I can help you, and I can show you how Princess Celestia's pet has been doing."

"Philomena is Aunty Celestia's pet?" The Prince looked at her in surprise, much to her confusion.

"She didn't tell you?"

"No, she only told me that Philomina was an exceptional friend of hers that was visiting you." He then looked up in thought. "Although in retrospect, it was kind of obvious."

Fluttershy could only giggle at that. "I think the princess was playing a small prank on you, just like her pet." Fluttershy mumbled. The last part in reminisce.

"Ha yeah, that sounds like my aunt alright, also? You have a sanctuary?" He looked at her perplexed as they advanced together.

"Oh yeah, it is a special place I have always wanted to have where all my animal friends could come and go as they pleased to rest, feed and have as much fun as they could ever want. It's a long story on how I got it."

"We have time." Blueblood smiled as they continued, a pair of eyes appearing on his shadow as it started looking at Fluttershy with intrigue.

Weird, I don't recall igniting anything in this mare before, yet the flame is there, but augh! It's too tame and small! Better turn up the heat. It chuckles, extending a bit, so their shadows touch, igniting, even more, the flame in Fluttershy's heart without her realizing it. Once the deed was done, it returned and faded away as if it never existed in the first place.

Once they arrived at her sanctuary, things start to get busy with the both of them as all sorts of fights were breaking out, groups of animals blaming one another for stealing their food, fights for resting places, and what the Prince consider the most curious, a sort of talking circle where both herbivores AND carnivores…talked, according to Fluttershy, on how they can live together in her little refuge without any fear of eating or hurting one another as long as they remain there. The whole thing was bizarre, and Blueblood could only watch in surprise and admiration at how Fluttershy tackled each and every single problem that came her way as easy as breathing.

Eventually, things calmed down when the sun was beginning to set, and both ponies were busy finishing feeding a couple of wolf and bear cubs while their parents remained nearby, taking power naps.

"Blueblood, I'm extremely sorry about how you ended up spending the whole day. This was supposed to be a chore-free day for us to talk and relax, but instead, we ended up just working in my sanctuary all day."

"Relax, Fluttershy, really it was no problem. I'm the one that volunteered when we started. Besides, watching you in action made me see how you are the perfect mare for me to seek advice from." Once one of the wolf cubs was done eating, the Prince levitated a piece of rope so they could play together as the cub bite and start a game of tug-of-war with the Prince. The latter only chuckle at the adorable sight. "The way you tackle every single problem, how you manage to keep everyone happy and respectful, how you maintain the peace in this place." He stopped playing to look at the pegasus. "For crying out loud, you hammered out an agreement, so no carnivore eats anyone here. Fluttershy, you are not only incredible. You are the mare that could do it all."

At the compliment, she couldn't help but giggle nervously and hide her increasing blush behind her mane.

"Perhaps even capable of helping me…." Snapping from her trance, the pegasus looked back at the Prince and noticed how he was kicking the ground, unsure if he should finish the sentence.

"Yes?" She gently pushed him to proceed and began to approach him.

"…Fluttershy, to tell you the truth, the idea of talking with all these rulers soon is making me nervous. In part because of fear of screwing something up and severing an alliance between nations. But mostly it's because I'm afraid that I could regress and turn into a wolf once more if they push me too far."

"A…wolf?" Fluttershy asks, confused at that statement, as well as various animals that look back at the Prince with raised eyebrows

"A metaphorical one. It is a term used to describe people working in some business areas because of their viciousness and cold-hearted approach when it comes to earning money or destroying rival companies. Back then, Fluttershy? I was a prime example of that type of monster, I was horrible, and I don't want to be that again. I don't want to wreck anyone's life anymore, far from it. I organized this meeting to help others while pitching my ideas for a better Equestria and better world in general that we could achieve working together. Still, the more I think about it, the more similarities I find to those meetings where I was a terrible human being."

"Then why don't we do some role play?" The moment Fluttershy uttered those words, the Prince did a double-take as he looked up and saw the yellow pegasus looking at him with determination

"What?"

"Yeah, that way, I can help you stand your ground without becoming a wolf. I can teach you to be firm yet kind, like when you helped me when we danced at the masquerade. I can help you use your skills for good once more. Pretend I'm one of them."

"Oh no, Fluttershy, that is a terrible idea. What if I accidentally slip into my old self? I can't show you that side of me. If you were to see it, then…you wouldn't be able to see me with the same eyes again."

"Blueblood, I promise" She smiled and grabbed his face, so he looked at her. "Nothing you do or say will change a thing. I know who you are inside. I already saw how that side of yours could help others, and I know you will never say anything mean, and if it happens, I know it wasn't on purpose. That is how I manage to keep peace here. That is the secret to ensuring everyone stays happy, with patience, practice, and a kind approach to any problem you face." She listed giving him a big smile before letting go of his face and stepping back.

"Please trust me. I assure you I can take it, and this way, you can remain calm and collected when facing them."

The Prince kept debating on taking her offer until finally he nodded and relented, "The second it becomes too much for you, we stop, got it?"

She nodded in agreement, and he took a deep breath and closed his eyes. "My biggest concern is that all of them will be aiming to know how to gain money and power overnight, so this is how I will most likely reply if they keep refusing to accept that my answer is no. Get ready" The moment he opened his eyes once more, Fluttershy's whole body flinched and became rigid. His previously warm and calm gaze was replaced entirely by a cold and hard stare. His smile was replaced with a calculated frown, and the way his eyes pierced her made her feel like he had placed her under a magnifying glass. It was as if he was looking right at her soul, almost daring her to try and lie. It took a moment for her to recover, but despite the fear trying to creep into her mind, she stood tall and responded with her Stare, making the atmosphere around them extremely heavy and tense.

"You aren't going to back down, are you? No, this is the only thing you want. Perhaps it's the only reason you are here. To learn the easy way to power? To unravel the mystery of how I got my hooves on all that money? That is what you want, Isn't it?"

Oh my, i-is this what my Stare feels like? No, this is different. It's like… The Glare I never imagined he had something so similar to my Stare. This is incredible. I wonder what could happen if we both look at some pony…no! I must stay focused on this to help him out, Nothing more.

Swallowing hard, Fluttershy licked her dry lips before taking a deep breath and getting into the role as well. "Don't get me wrong, this game of cat and mouse is cute and all, but I have humored you more than enough. These are the big league's Blueblood, so it would be prudent to stop with all the games and get down to business. You have something I want, and you don't want to test my patience." She replied with a smirk surprising the Prince with how natural it came across. He almost wanted to stop right there and praise her acting skills. Still, he needed to continue. The whole idea of this roleplay was to help him practice how to respond if this situation happened during his meeting.

"Test your patience, you say?" Blueblood only chuckled and shook his head. "Oh Princess, you don't understand the can of worms you are asking me to open. But you told me to stop with the games, so how about a sort of warning instead?"

"Nope!" Fluttershy broke character and pointed at Blueblood, snapping him back to reality. "If you wish to make friends, you can't ever threaten them," She elaborated, lowering her hoof.

"Then how do I make them drop the subject?"

"Instead of that, try to explain why you can't tell them something. You can be a bit ambiguous but try not to be overly intimidating while doing so. Just make sure you are not doing it out of malice, and instead, it's more to protect them. Let's try it again. A Princess tells you that she is done playing games…how do you reply to that?"

The Prince thinks it over before coming with an answer and looked at her with a smile before resuming their bizarre staring competition/ rehearsal until they both lost track of time, simply looking at one another without saying a word and making the animals of the sanctuary recoil in fear as their glares and tension were so palpable that they were starting to not see them as the ponies they were and instead saw them as some sort of werewolf and vampire creatures that were about to pounce at one another.

Eventually, their contest ended when a brave white bunny tugged on Fluttershy mane to tell her that he was hungry, snapping them from their trance and realizing how they were a hairs distance away from kissing.

Jolting back in surprise, they turned away, sporting great blushes and noticing how it was already night. "Oh my, is it night already?! It must be dinner time!" As if on cue, both their stomachs grumbled in agreement, only making them blush deeper.

"Y-yeah, it looks like, w-why don't we leave things here and go get something to eat for everyone?"

"Y-yeah, let's do just that!" They bolted back to her cottage, taking glances at the other but refusing to make eye contact, their minds confused by what happened. Fluttershy, in particular, was confused and surprised at how the sensation of danger from the Prince rather than eliciting fear excited her somehow, and she couldn't figure out why.

In a nearby bush, a chuckling dragon figure watched them run.

Not exactly what I was planning, but, oh, I love some tension in the air, especially the sexy kind. Sweet dreams, caretaker. She continued chuckling before disappearing.
> Second Invite (Edited By NS And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Repeatedly knocking on a door, an annoyed maid tapped her hoof in exasperation. "Excuse me, sir! I'm sorry, but I need to clean the room. Could you please let me in?" She asked, trying to hide the irritation in her voice, as she had been trying to get an answer from Sharp Shooter, who, after finishing work on his empathic arrow, seemed to have locked himself to his room. No one had heard or seen him in days.

Chalking up his reclusiveness as mere exhaustion, the royal couple allowed the poor stallion some time to rest, but by now, their hospitality had reached their limit, and they decided to, at the very least, let the staff clean his room.

"Ah, buck it, let the brat have his fit. I'm coming in!" The maid warned him and used her master key to enter the room, only to find resistance When trying to open the door. "What the…?" Adding more force, she succeeded in making it budge as she heard something ripping until whatever was obstructing the entrance ripped apart wholly, causing her to land face-first inside and into some unknown arms that stopped her fall.

Startled, she quickly backed away and was shocked to see Sharp Shooter staring back at her with a gentle thousand-yard stare and glowing pink eyes who had some steam wafting up from the edges. Not only that, but his body was covered entirely in green foliage, shaped in the form of a bizarre natural tuxedo, with roots and white flowers acting as the necktie, a big red rose in his lapel, and even a crown made of twigs.

The initial shock left her speechless, and she managed to take a single step back before the stallion reached out and froze her in place by caressing her right cheek and smiling softly at her, refusing to break eye contact. The smell his body was exuding was intoxicating. The maid could feel her conscience slowly fading as she started to smile too and lean forward, allowing Sharp to kiss her forehead before stepping back. At the same time, she closed her eyes, ignoring the flower that started to grow in the spot he just kissed as she kept looking back at him with a matching thousand-yard stare and smile. Her eyes slowly started glowing in the same way as his, and her body was quickly enveloped by the flora, too, until finally, she too was wearing a natural formal ensemble. Breaking eye contact, they turned to face opposite directions and then began to march down the hall slowly, leaving a trail of flowers behind. Pausing only to repeat the process to whomever they stumbled upon, the foliage from Sharp Shooter's room started expanding at an alarmingly fast rate.

Meanwhile, Back at Fluttershy's cottage.

Making their way deeper into Fluttershy's sanctuary, the walk there was notably quiet and tense as both Blueblood and Fluttershy were having a hard time making eye contact with each other, the events of last night were still fresh in their mind and as much as they wanted to understand it, neither knew exactly what happened. One moment they were practicing answers for different scenarios, and the next, they stared at one another for almost five hours, according to Fluttershy's animal friends. So much was the tension that the Prince didn't question it when she decided to bring a saddlebag along as well.

They got lost in each other's eyes, and even if they didn't want to admit it, the whole ordeal felt nice, even cathartic to a degree, something that only helped make things all the more awkward between the two.

With a sigh, the Prince stopped and looked down with a solemn expression. "Fluttershy, what are we doing?"

Stopping a couple of steps further down, the pegasus looked back curiously. "Are we just two hormonal teenagers now?" He asked sarcastically, making her blush and look away, not that he had noticed as he kept his eyes firmly on the ground. "Why do we keep ignoring what happened? Yeah, we kissed, yeah, things got awkward at the train station, and yes, last night we lost time while looking into each other's eyes, so what? Why are we making such a big deal about it? All we did was get lost in our practice session, right?" He finally looked up to see her as she was still looking to the side but occasionally made eye contact before looking down and playing with the dirt a little. "Right" She nodded twice and replied with a barely audible voice, sighing; the Prince returned to hanging his head down.

"Fluttershy back at the party, was the kiss an accident?" The question came out of the blue and took her by surprise as she looked up at him with wide eyes, like a deer blindsided by the headlights of a car.

"I'm sorry to breach the subject like that, but I need to know. Ever since that night, I have been replaying the events over and over in my head. You were so excited; it was clear that you were mostly caught up in the heat of the moment and probably wanted to thank me in another way other than words. I'm so sorry for this; I don't want to keep making things awkward between us. I want to spend time with my friend, so I want to know… Is what happened there intentional, or was it an accident?" He asked, looking at her with pleading eyes, desperate to find a way to clear the air between the two of them once and for all.

What are you waiting for? Tell him the truth. The poor stallion is pouring his heart out for you. Are you going to ignore him? Fluttershy kept hearing her voice inside her head as she took one last glance at him before closing her eyes for a moment, repeating the events that led to the kiss over and over again.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, she looked forward and opened her eyes to look at him directly, with more determination. "It was an accident." She confessed with pity and sorrow for him. "You were right, that kiss was meant to be on the cheek, and it was a  heat of the moment thing for letting me live out my biggest dream since I  was a filly." She folded her ears and looked at him in pity. "I'm sorry for leading you on like that. I should have come clean sooner, but when I finally found you again, well…."

"Yeah, the duel."

"I'm sorry for making things awkward."

"No, no, it's ok. In fact, this is great." Blueblood approached her with a smile. "This is exactly what we needed to clear the air and clear up any misunderstandings; it feels good getting all of that off your chest, right?"

"Yeah…yeah, it kind of does," Fluttershy replied, holding her chest and smiling more brightly at the revelation. "I don't feel so uncomfortable anymore."

"Me neither so…are we ok now? There is nothing else that we should talk about?" He asks worriedly.

"Nope, I don't think there was anything else. Thanks for clearing the air Blueblood."

"It was nothing. I just didn't want to leave things as they were. You are an incredible friend, an amazing singer, and a surprisingly skilled actress. Fluttershy really, that impression of a queen was spot on."

"It was nothing. I have had lots of practice before with trying to be more assertive. taking on a role is fairly easy for me, particularly if it is for just one pony instead of a whole crowd." She replied casually, surprising herself at how calm and relaxed she was at taking his compliments now.

Oh my, he is right! I don't feel embarrassed or scared anymore. Talking things out makes everything easier!

"Well, it certainly shows. Seriously, thanks for all that practice, Fluttershy. Now I feel more than ready to face those difficult situations if they ever arise." They both resumed their walk to their destination.

"I'm glad to hear that I could help and that we can put all the awkwardness behind us before your final surprise."

"What surprise?" Blueblood looked at her quizzically as she remained quiet and instead went ahead to move some bushes aside. "Blueblood, meet Philomena." She introduced him to his Aunt's pet rather than answer, and once she moved the brush, he saw a magnificent red bird sitting on a nest looking back at him with a confused and curious look. The Prince kept staring at her, not sure if he recognized the species until the unusual feather that looked like a crown with some small fur along its edge, the yellow borders and the shades of red on her neck and face, as well as the ashes and burned out leaves surrounding the nest slowly allowed for him to piece together everything and subsequently gasp, as his eyes widened.

"I-is-is that a-a..." He slowly pointed at Philomina, earning more confusion from the bird who raised an eyebrow at his strange behavior. At the same time, Fluttershy had to put a hoof over her mouth to prevent her from giggling at Blueblood's expression. She even started to get teary-eyed with mirth from how funny the Prince looked right now.

"Y-yep" Fluttershy managed to recover as she picked some berries and offered them to Philomina for her to eat. "Princess Celestia's pet phoenix, isn't she pretty?"

"Philomena is a phoenix. My Aunt's pet is a phoenix! Oh dear god, I just…there is a phoenix right in front of me! I just…I need a moment." The Prince had to fight the urge to rush toward her and instead took a moment to breathe, recovering from his delight at discovering one of the most beloved mythological creatures, which only kept confusing the poor bird more and more as she started to recall all of the interactions she had before with the Prince, something that didn't take too long as he mostly just ignored her or put food on her plate when her Master asked him to do. He looked disinterested or just annoyed all those times, and he only responded with a snarl at her each time she tried to play a joke on him.

"Oh my!" Fluttershy suddenly realized the mistake she had just made, remembering now that Philomina didn't know anything of what had happened before to the Prince.

"What? What is it?" Blueblood looked at her, concerned. "Is something wrong with Philomina?"

The bird now did a double-take, completely lost on what was going on.

"What?! Oh no, no, no, it's nothing like that. I just…ah could you just give us an itsy bitsy moment?" She lightly pushed the Prince away and moved the bushes back as the Prince blinked, confused at her antics. Fluttershy turned to the distressed bird, which by now was screaming for answers.

"I know, I know he is acting strange. Please, if you calm down, I will explain everything."

Philomina eyed her suspiciously before landing in front of her, pointing with one of her wings and squeaking once more.

"No, I'm not getting back at you for that prank you pulled, even if that was a bit mean!…no, I wouldn't!…because that would be mean!" Fluttershy started to argue with her. "Please, Philomina, I'm telling you the truth."

She kept looking at Fluttershy suspiciously but decided to give her the benefit of the doubt and nodded so she could explain what was happening.

A short explanation later, and both the mare and the Phoenix invited the Prince back once more, who looked in worried. "Is everything ok?"

"It is now. I'm sorry, Blueblood, I completely forgot." Philomina landed in front of him, confused and tilting her head. "Philomena has been Princess Celestia's pet for a very long time now, so it was obvious that she might know…ah the previous you."

"Oh." The Prince realized what was happening, and he knelt in front of the Phoenix. "That explains it. My previous self wasn't exactly very kind to you, wasn't he?"

She screeched a couple of times.

"She says that it was mostly indifference." She kept squeaking as Fluttershy acted as translator. "He was mostly cold, not interested in getting to know me, I think once or twice I played a prank on you…ah him to rile him up, but we never really saw each other much, so there is not much to be sorry about. I barely knew the guy." She ended with a shrug and a shake of her head.

"I see, in that case, I need to tell you. Anyone that ignores such a beautiful and majestic creature like you is a complete moron." He confided with a slight edge of anger in his voice, startling both Phonix and pegasus. "He not only ignored my aunty but also passed up the chance to meet and befriend a phoenix? That guy was a moron. If it were me, I would have given you the attention and respect that you deserve."

Philomina squeaks and teared up at the praise. "I still would love to get to know you better if you like, but if you think it will only make things weird, I would understand…." Before he could finish, Philomina flew forward and hugged his face, nuzzling the side of it, making Fluttershy clear away a tear before translating. "She says that she would love that very much and wanted to thank you for saying such pretty things to her."

These actions were enough to warm the Prince's heart as he hugged her back delicately and scratched her back softly, earning a pleasant coo of approval from Philomina as they broke the hug.

"But wait, I still don't get it, Aunty Celestia told me you were staying with Fluttershy for a while now, but I see you are perfectly fine. Why haven't you come back home, Philomena?" The Prince looked at her confused, making her squeal and ruffle her feathers in excitement before flying back to her nest, inviting the two to come closer. Once there, the Prince gasped when in the middle of the nest, Philomina showed them a single white egg with some flame patterns on its shell glistening in the light, making it look like it was made of crystal or even a diamond.

"P-Philomina, you are gonna be a mother!?" The Prince looks back at her, matching her excitement as she nods eagerly.

"Oh, it's more than that Blueblood, that right there is an heir egg," Fluttershy explained, gaining his attention. As she pulled a book from her saddleback and opened it, she started to look for a page in particular.

"An heir egg?" Blueblood repeated slowly with a raised eyebrow as she nodded and showed him a picture of a phoenix-like Philomina and one with three feathers pulled back instead of the feathery crown she had, pointing at a red egg with the same flame patterns on it. "That is right, you see, as you can see when a female phoenix in the wild lays her eggs, they look just like this one in the picture." She then passed the book.

"But when a Phoenix has been domesticated and adopted as a pet, their mating rituals change a tiny bit." She points at a series of sketches of Phoenix's nuzzling a pony, connected to an arrow going to the left, showing the birds flying, and behind it, there was a mountain, another arrow pointing downwards at two Phoenix's inside a heart, another with a nest of chick phoenix and one Phoenix waving goodbye at a departing phoenix and returning to the original image. "When mating season arrives, the Phoenix that has been adopted leaves home and flies to the west like any other bird in winter, to find a mate, create eggs, leave a legacy and then return to their Master. They are particularly prolific like that.

Blueblood smiled and extended his hoof, scratching Philomina's stomach. "No male can tame you, right, Philomena? No, you are a free spirit, destined to fly free and wild, aren't you?" He half-joked, half complimented, as she squeaks in delight with some heat on her cheeks as she moved and nuzzled his face appreciating the affection.

"She is mostly agreeing and thanking you for the compliment. "Fluttershy translated with a smile at the display before clearing her throat. "Anyway, this is the part I wanted to show you." She flipped to the next page showing the white egg on top of a phoenix and a pony inside a heart next to the same egg, now red with the same image but with a colt holding said egg and an arrow connecting the two.

"If the male of the species is the pet when this process happens, he usually brings a mate to join the family of the pony, but if it is the female. During one of their mating trips, they create what is called an heir egg. A special egg that they lay away from their owners to nurture until it's time to hatch. These eggs are special because they represent a deep connection. You see, as the name implies, the chick that will be born from this egg isn't meant to be for their owners but rather the descendants of their owners. A phoenix to look after the next generation as a final show of affection and gratitude to the owner that took such good care of the previous generation. That way, when the owners die, the Phoenix leaves and returns to the wild, and their descendant takes the role of looking after the next generation."

"Wow, wait, but that doesn't make any sense; why would you lay an egg? Aunt Celestia doesn't have a kid of her own, or is even dating or anything…right?"

"I actually don't know." She put the book away. "Lots of researchers have tried to understand how the phoenix knows before hoof, but none have figured out how or why, but the Phoenix simply knows when the owner will have an heir, so they go search for a mate or lay an egg before that happens and said egg then could take months or even years before it hatches as they prepare."

She looks back at the white egg. "It will usually change color when the heir is ready to receive it. By then, the Phoenix will fly off to bring both to her nest and share the news." Philomina chirped in happiness as her feathers ruffled again.

"Man, can she even be more adorable?" Blueblood remarked, causing the bird to chortle and look away, squawking in contentment. "That's why she has been staying with me recently. The time hasn't arrived yet, but when it does. Philomina asked me to take care of her egg while she brought Celestia and her heir to the nest."

The bird nodded and then went back to sit on the egg.

"So that is why." The Prince nodded with a smile before approaching Philomina. "I understand, don't worry, Philomina. I will keep this a secret and will tell my auntie that you are well and good and will come back when you are ready." He then got closer to her face. "And even if this isn't my place to assume, if this means what I think it means, I will do my utmost to be worthy of such an incredible gift." She squeaked softly and closed her eyes while nuzzling his face and neck before he pulled back and turned to look at Fluttershy.

"Please take good care of her Fluttershy. She is a good friend."

"You can count on me, both of you. Until the time comes, Philomena can stay here as long as she needs." She approached the bird in question with a smile. "And if you wish to visit the Princess before its time, you can count on me to look after your egg while you are gone."

Philomena cooed and nodded, in thanks for the offer, before waving goodbye to the two with one of her wings as they left and returned to the entrance of her cottage. "I still can't believe it, a Phoenix, a real-life Phoenix!" Blueblood exclaimed, expressing his growing emotions, "She was even more magnificent and majestic than I could have ever imagined."

"I'm so glad to hear that. I still can't believe I forgot that Philomena would also recognize your change, but I'm glad everything turned out fine. You two became fast friends." Fluttershy replied with a smile of her own, stopping briefly when some of her kittens came up to her demanding attention. This made her giggle and rub their backs as they nuzzle at her.

"Oh, you and I both Fluttershy, I still can't believe it! I am friends with a Phoenix! You have no idea how many years I have dreamed of seeing one, let alone, HUG one!"

"Well, I'm happy to hear I was able to help you fulfill your…HMPH!" The Prince couldn't help himself and, in his excitement, got closer to kiss her cheek in gratitude. Unfortunately, she was in the process of turning around to look at him, causing their lips to connect for a solid minute, causing her feathers to ruffle, her left rear leg to lift into the air involuntary and wings to go stiff until the kiss ended and the Prince went ahead.

"Thank you again for the sleepover and the practice meeting Fluttershy! You are the best!" Blueblood called, waving at her, not realizing what he just did before practically prancing his way to town.

"Your…welcome," Fluttershy muttered while slowly waving goodbye at him, trying to recover from the shock.

So…that is how he felt, and by Celestia, what a kisser. She giggled uncontrollably for a second before going stiff, with wide eyes touching her lips as the realization of what she was doing dawned on her and blush as a result.

Ever so slowly, she looked down to see a group of her animal friends looking equally surprised before starting to snicker and grin.

"N…no, it is not! I'm sure! y-yes, I'm sure!" She denied going back to her cottage with a deep blush to calm down as they whistled at her, increasing her blush for whatever things she understood them to be saying.

Behind them, hiding in a thicket, the silhouette of a dragon was also chuckling lightly.

That will keep her mind busy, and my my, what a naughty mind. It always is the quiet ones. Two down. The figure looked in the direction the Prince went. Two to go.
> Surprise Sleepover! (Edited By NS And BS )
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Here you go! Have a nice day!" Pinkie eagerly waved goodbye to yet another customer before cleaning the counter with a piece of cloth when the sound of the bell rang, announcing the arrival of another customer. "Welcome to Sugar Cube Corner, how can I…." She paused when she saw a white stallion in good shape, with a rainbow afro, thick sunglasses, pink mustache, and a blue t-shirt that read "I'm not Blueblood" written on it as he made his way to the counter and started scratching his chin inspecting the treats on display "…help you?" Pinkie looked at the stallion with some suspicion before smiling and chuckling, shaking her head. "Bluey, that is by far your worst disguise."

"No, it isn't!" Blueblood suddenly answered from behind her, startling the poor mare who jumped back, landing on the other side of the corner as the Prince in question walked out of the kitchen with a big grin on his face. "Is this one!" He proclaimed with pride, showing her a paper mask of his face before putting it away in his saddlebag while laughing at her reaction.

"B…Bluey? But then who is…." She points at the Prince before turning to the other stallion, only to notice the transparent strings connected to a pallet being levitated by Blueblood's spell. "Nice double, right? A triple fake-out! Rather than me as a puppet, it's me, but not me, poorly pretending to be some pony else puppet! no one ever sees that one coming!" Blueblood explained with pride while walking away from the counter and shrinking the puppet to put it away as Pinkie processes what just happened.

"Sorry if I startled you. I just thought you might like this little surprise to start our sleepover. And don't worry about work, I already talked with the cakes, and if it's ok with you. You can take the rest of the day off." Blueblood confirmed, and Pinkie, who now recovered from the shock, gasped and started to grin from ear to ear for a moment before pulling him and his creation into a strong bear hug while waving the two from one side to the other.

"Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh! It's happening! It's finally happening! The ultra duper fantastic sleepover!"

"I…take that as a yes then?" the Prince tried to chuckle and smile while also recovering the breath she was squeezing out of his lungs.

Rather than answer, she let him go with a gasp. "We are so gonna need snacks!" She announced suddenly and rushed back to the kitchen, where she became an absolute blur of motion centered around the oven. Blueblood, meanwhile, stood up, recovering from her solid, vice-like grip, as Mr. Carrot approached him with a chuckle. "Ah, that Pinkie Pie, always full of energy, I still can't believe she has never had a colt/ filly sleepover before, for how much she loves parties, I thought for sure she at least would have gone to one." He commented, looking back at the Prince.

"Yeah, it was quite the surprise for me too." the Prince nodded a couple of times. "Don't worry. I promise that we will be as quiet as possible while we stay in her party cave."

"Nah, don't worry about it. She anticipated all the noise that her antics would cause and never wanting to give clues to potential birthday parties. Pinkie made that place soundproof years ago, so feel free to make as much noise as you want." Mr. Carrot waved his hoof dismissively. "Are you sure you can handle it, your highness? She can get a bit intense, especially if faced with a party she has never had before."

"Trust me. She can't hold a candle to some of the meetings I have been forced to attend in the past." The comment made Carrot cringe, and he looked at the Prince in shock. "Wow, didn't know that the life of royalty could get that chaotic."

"Eh, we all face a different beast in our jobs. I bet this place isn't exactly quiet during rush hour, is it?" Blueblood smirked back, and they shared a laugh soon after. "You got me there, lad, and well, if you think you can handle it. Then I hope you two have as much fun as you like."

"Oh, you know it, I plan to give her the best first boy/girl sleepover ever." He pressed his hoof against his chest, making Carrot smile and nod, before looking back to the kitchen watching Ms. Cake try to help Pinkie prepare everything for the day ahead for the Prince and the party planner. Once again, neither noticed the Prince's shadow springing to action and poking Mr. Cake's shadow without anyone seeing, causing him to look at the Prince with curiosity.

"Say, lad, you seem pretty happy and eager to hang out with Pinkie. By chance, is there something else going on?"

"Well, of course."

"Oh?"

"I also want her to help me with some advice for an important meeting I will be attending very soon." He then motioned for the baker to get closer in order to whisper. "Between us, I want to see if I can convince her to share some of her cake recipes. I want to surprise my aunts with a homemade cake one of these days."

"What?"

"Oh hey, Pound and Pumpkin! Been a while." Blueblood lit up when he saw the kids playing in a corner, and he decided to approach the two.

"Wait, lad, that's not what I…." He stopped when he saw the Prince chuckle and play with his kids as Pumpkin latches onto his hooves once more. "…meant"

"Looks like you still remember me, don't you, Pumpkin?" He kept playing with them, waiting for Pinkie and making Mr. Carrot start to chuckle while shaking his head.

Huh, would you look at that? Maybe he really will be able to handle her after all.

At that time, back in Canterlot

"The coast is clear, your highness," One of her Thestrals informed the Lunar Princess as she stepped out of the carriage and marched forward with an intense glare. "Good, what did the staff say?"

"Nothing we don't already know, my Princess, they had no idea, and their alibis checked out. As far as they knew, their boss worked alone and even fooled them. We almost were fooled as well. He made a slip, though, and we found the evidence. It is as you suspected."

Deciding not to waste any time after speaking with Blueblood's maids. Luna set her sights on the auction house and the list of participants. It was, luckily, easy to eliminate suspects. More than half were mares, so taking them out of the equation took care of three-quarters of the attendees. Then picking only the pegasi left her with five suspects remaining. Of which, only three were in Blueblood's circle of friends—leaving just one with a military and sports background.

With all the evidence piling up, including how the stallion also tended to jog at night and was spotted backstage the day the Prince obtained his new armor. Princess Luna had more than enough circumstantial evidence to issue a warrant which put the final nail in the coffin.

Making her way through to a secret room behind a wardrobe, she and her guards were greeted by a sight that set her blood to boil. Lab equipment was at the far end of the room, along with prototypes and parts for a ballista, a freezer, and ground sleep rock. Behind them was a corkboard with weather patterns and sketches of a window and time to shoot a single arrow to the exact point needed.

"From a moving cloud with zero visibility, a perfect hit in one of the armored suits eye slits, accounting for wind velocity, a window to pierce and not crack and from an 800 yards distance." A Thestral listed looking at the records and plans "This was an impossible shot. No one could hit the target with so many insane factors."

"No one except one that has been dubbed the ultimate archer all over and outside of Equestria," Luna replied with a glare looking to the side where a multitude of archery trophies were placed. She had all the proof she would ever need in front of her. Sharp Shooter was the one that ended her nephew's life. Not only that, but according to what she was looking for, this was just the start as he seemed to have marked the mane six as well, circling Applejack as the next target if he had succeeded with his plan.

"Where is he now?" Luna demanded, glaring daggers at the cord board, fighting to stay as calm and collected as possible.

"In the Crystal Empire, your highness."

"What?!" She exclaimed in horror, turning to look at his guard. "According to his butler, he went there not too long ago to explore Princess Cadence's emotional spectrum and propose a new non-lethal weapon to grant to the public."

Luna bolted out of the room as fast as she could and started issuing commands left and right, to send a squad to arrest the infamous noble, to get ready to restrain him if things turned violent, and to prepare the chariot for her to pick up her sister and then head to the empire themselves.

Once outside and with all the necessary orders issued, she closed her eyes and ignited her horn to contact her sister.

Tia! It's me. I figured it out! It was Sharp Shooter! He is the killer. My guards are securing his home now! We got him.

She waited patiently for a reply, starting to get more and more anxious when no message returned.

Tia? Tia! Answer me! What is happening!

She eventually received a reply, but her questions increased when the first thing that came from her sister was a tired groan

…not so loud Luna…I was having such a nice dream too. What is it?

Tia didn't you hear a single thing I just said?! I found Blueblood's killer! It…

Aha…that is nice, have fun. Celestia lazily dismissed her concern and then yawned. It was scaring the poor Lunar Princess to no end.

TIA, WHAT IN EQUESTRIA IS HAPPENING TO YOU?!

Augh! So annoying! You should relax more, Lulu…why don't you join me at the spa? Dip your hoofs in the jacuzzi. The water feels divine against your hooves.

Ending the link, the Princess remained frozen in place, not believing what her sister had just said. Her biggest fear had been realized. Crossfire Tempo was working together with her old partner in the academy, and now they have captured her sister.

"Your highness, everyone is ready. Just give the order." One guard approached and saluted, snapping her to attention as she shook her head.

"Change of plans. I want a second squad with me and alert the elements. Tell them that my sister has been taken hostage and board the first train to Appleloosa as soon as they can! I will go ahead."

"Your highness?" The guard followed her in worry.

"Get a unicorn squad ready too. I'm afraid we have just underestimated a very dangerous foe."

Soon orders were done, issued, and soldiers were dispatched to their respective missions as Luna flew as fast as possible towards Appleloosa, some of her best soldiers headed to the crystal empire to apprehend a criminal, and one final squad was currently in route to Ponyville by train to fetch the Elements of Harmony when a female giggle caught their attention and put them on alert.

As the train entered a tunnel, the lights turned pink, and from the middle of the wagon, Scarlett appeared wearing a red cape, startling those closer to her. "My, my, a delicate and fragile lady surrounded by such fine examples of mares and stallions" She looked up, and they leveled their weapons at her when they noticed that her eyes were shining. "It's enough to work up an appetite. Please don't be scared, everypony." Scarlett smiled warmly, and with a wave of her hoof, their weapons turned into flowers that dropped to the floor as they saw her take out a book from her cape. "I'm only here to read you a story and invite you to a special party." She licked her lips and smirked wickedly as her shadow extended, revealing the silhouette of a dragon.

"Oh, where are my manners?! Everypony, allow me to introduce you to my good friend. Desire, the spirit of goals and wants."

"A pleasure." The shadow spoke, "So tell me, loyal, royal guardsponies, what did you love the most?"

The pair kept chuckling as the train exited the tunnel, only this time, all the wagons previously filled with royal guards were now empty save for bunches of flowers left behind.

Back at Ponyville, inside Pinkie's Party Cave

"You can't be serious." The Prince laughed as he and Pinkie shared a cider while playing a small board game in the middle of her cave.

"No, hear me out, I'm telling you it's a great idea. A party signal could be one excellent way to not only call me but other excellent party planners PLUS telling everyone that an incredible party will be happening soon."

He just kept laughing while shaking his head before cleaning one of his eyes from the forming tears. "I will…I will think about it."

Once the laughter died down, the Prince stared at his reflection in his mug. "Ok, Pinkie, how do you do it?"

"Do what, silly?"

"Keep everything so happy and energized? You are capable of turning the most mundane of things into a riot! I'm even jealous of how easy it is for you to keep everyone smiling and in an excellent mood."

"It's all about keeping a positive attitude and looking on the bright side of things."

He nodded a couple of times. "Will that be all it takes? Like, you think that would be enough to keep my meeting cheerful?"

"You are still worried about meeting the other Princes and Princesses?" Pinkie questioned, adopting a more worried tone as he merely nodded in confirmation. "Pinkie, it's more than just others that have a crown. I have met with those that quite possibly understand the pressures of holding the title 'prince.' I wish to connect with them because I think we will all have a lot in common, and not all of it is exactly jokes and smiles."

He turned to look at her. "So if there is a pony that knows how to keep everything cheerful, it would certainly be Ponyville's premier party planner extraordinaire! Please Pinkie Pie, teach me your ways."

She went quiet for a moment and closed her eyes as she took a sip from her cup. "What you ask will not be easy. It will require patience and dedication, young grasshopper. Do you think you have what it takes?"

"I do, Pinkie, just put me to the test."

"Hmm, I see potential. Ok! we will start immediately. First, we will go to the mountains, stare at the stars, eat nothing but the funniest of pies, and while lying on the ground questioning existence then, and only then would you be able to understand, the way of the laugh."

"Ah…I was thinking more of the crash course to be ready by next week."

"In that case, I would need a stereo, a whoopie cushion, and some tic-tacs." She amended in complete serenity.

"Ah, ok, I think I can get those."

"Good, now." She lifts her hoof, revealing a pie covered in whip cream. "Take this pie…and throw it at me, as funnily as you can!" She extended the pie neutrally, letting him know she was serious.

He could only blink in confusion before nodding and doing just that as they partook in the most bizarre training Desire had ever seen, laughing and having fun along the way.

Ok…this is weird, but as they say, desire doesn't need to make sense.

She smirked and got to work, poking at Pinkie's shadow once they decided to stop briefly to make more snacks.

"So Pinkie, do you think you could teach me how to make a couple of cakes?"

"Sure! No problem." She exclaimed with a smile. "I love teaching others, especially because it allows me to lick the cake and frosting bowl."

"Awesome! Thanks, I want to be ready for my Aunties' next birthdays. I thought they would love it if I could make them some homemade cakes with their favorite toppings!"

"Awww! That is so sweet!"

He's a highly considerate stallion. I wonder what kind of cake he would make for…Oh, I know what he could make me if he wanted?

What?

I bet it's chocolate, or strawberry, or lemon, or vanilla! Oh, do you think he could do the HMMMMMMM? Mysterious voice?

I don't...

Oh, who am I kidding? Of course, he could, he is so considerate, and friendly, and loves to party! It just makes me want to make him into…

Yes, he is something you would like to be more than friends with, isn't he?

Yeah, like ultra super duper friends!

Desire stopped cold, unsure of what was happening as Pinkie and Blueblood continued to work with her nuzzling his face on occasions and playing a little with the frosting.

Ah, what happened? Did my touch work or not?

Oh I think it worked just fine. I like him more now.

Oh, that is great! For a moment, I thought,…hey, wait a minute!"
> The Golden Mirage (Edited By NS And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Letting out a sigh, Princess Celestia allowed herself a moment to close her eyes and enjoy the wing massage she was receiving while in front of her; Crossfire Tempo was taking part in one herself. Usually, the owner of an establishment wouldn't join their clients in treatment. Still, with a bit of probing and some slight manipulation, Celestia managed to convince her to join her for the day.

All in the hope of keeping her relaxed and content while discussing the past and what has happened to the once vibrant and full-of-life Tempo. Even now, she seemed to constantly switch between emotions and had developed a strange obsession with her appearance from how she still refused to part ways with her necklace.

"Heavens, thank you so much for talking me into joining you Princess, I needed this." Tempo exclaimed with her eyes closed as two pegasi worked on her two long wings, massaging and giving them a small preen to remove any out-of-place feathers.

"Glad to hear it, and please Crossfire, no need for titles, you can call by my name if you want."

"Aww, if you don't mind, then ok." Tempo sighed in relief as she opened her eyes to look at the alicorn. "And this is just a preview. Get ready, Celestia. We are going to spoil you rotten here."

"I can't wait" She nodded with a giggle, and then she gasped and sighed in relief when one of her masseurs removed a particularly pesky feather that had been bothering her for a couple of days now. Seeing her opportunity, the Princess put her plan in action, seeking to make her open up with some small chit-chat."

"That necklace holds a special place in your heart, doesn't it?" The Princess inquired solemnly, choosing her words carefully as she watched the pegasus flinched when the Princess mentioned her jewelry. "I will drop the subject altogether if you ask me to, but would it be ok if at least you told me the story behind it?" She asked with pleading eyes raising her neck slightly to look at Tempo better. For what felt like hours, the pegasus lay there motionless without saying a word, making everything tense, to the point where even the masseurs stopped their work until finally, she showed a sign of life once more in the form of a sigh.

"It will open an ancient wound," She finally responded as she looked up and glared at Celestia with a raised eyebrow. "Knowing that. You would still want to hear the story?"

The tension became more palpable at the proclamation, and yet the Princess was determined to help her friend and was done walking on eggshells. Tempo just gave the Princess a way for them to open up to each other. Even if turbulent, Celestia was willing to traverse that path, " Yes, if such a necklace holds a bittersweet piece of your past, it will stand to reason. I would like to hear the story behind it and, if possible, help you find a way to heal such painful memories."

Tempo only nodded and looked down in sorrow. "This necklace was a gift that Sharp Shooter gave me the day after you exiled me from Canterlot." She revealed, glaring back at the Princess as she vividly remembered the day in question.





"How could you have let this happen?!" The Princess yelled at a much younger Crossfire Tempo, completely livid with tears in her eyes as they argued outside the royal infirmary. A resting Prince Blueblood (Age 10) was in one of the beds, with some bandages on his face, a swollen right cheek, and a black eye as a sign of a struggle.

"Celestia, please look at me. You have to calm down. Yes, what happened is horrible, and it happened under my watch, but I assure you. I issued the proper orders. The creep that did this is behind bars right now and awaiting trial. This is the last time I trust an eight-year-old colt."

The comment made the Princess pause as she slowly turned to the pegasus once more. "What did you say?"

"The reason this happened was mainly that I was following your instructions. Blueblood and I went to see that poor kid after what happened to his mother. He even wanted to talk to him personally to say how sorry he was. Honestly, with how Bluey was taking out of his busy schedule, that boy should have been more thankful for hearing some condolences, especially from the pony his mom took such good care of while being a maid. Instead, he gets mad and starts rambling nonsense while attacking a member of the royal family? Talk about ungratefulness."

"And you put an eight-year-old colt who just lost his mom in a dark, damp dungeon!?" the Princess accused Tempo again.

"Celestia…she attacked my godchild! What was I supposed to do?! Look at him! Look at your grand-nephew and tell me you wouldn't have done the same!" Tempo rebuffed, pointing at the sleeping bruised figure of Blueblood.

"He is still an emotionally fragile child, for Pony's sake, Tempo! What were you thinking?!" She turned to one of her guards. "Go fetch the child and put him in one of the guest rooms immediately! Give him some hot chocolate or something to calm his nerves and place him under surveillance! Call social services and a psychologist. I don't care if you have to drag them from their beds. Just do it!"

"At once, your majesty!" The guard saluted and left in a rush as Crossfire regarded the Princess like she just sprouted a second head. "Are you kidding me! You are going to a coddle that…that…brut even when he did THAT to Blueblood?!"

"Of course not! And he will receive a severe punishment for what he did, believe me, but it will be by the book, and according to the law, we are not above our own rules Tempo, we can't just let our emotions guide our actions. there is a way to do these things!"

"Don't go talking to me like I'm the irrational one. I'm within the law here, Celestia, and you know it! That brat doesn't deserve any pity from us and deserves to rot in that cell!"

Turning her back, Celestia began to walk away and sigh, "If that is the way you see things, then I believe it would be wise that we don't see each other again."

"Fine by me! I would be taking my godchild with me and will never return to this hellhole."

"Guards," Celestia commanded, and Tempo's path was suddenly blocked by two uniformed pegasi who glared at her.

"What are you doing now? You can't do this to me, Celestia!"

"I can and I will! Under article 47 in child support, it states that if the legal guardian fails to protect and keep safe their child, one must be immediately placed under their immediate blood relative's protection or in foster care if none can take them in or are deemed unfit to care." She looked at her over her shoulder and glared at Tempo.

"I'm not going a let anyone else hurt my precious nephew."

"Are you kidding me! It was under YOUR watch this happened. That was YOUR maid. If anyone failed as a guardian, it was YOU!"

"Guards escort Crossfire Tempo off of the premise. If she resists, I will issue a banishment decree," Celestia warned Tempo.

"No, NO! Celestia, you can't do this to me! Celestia!" She was dragged away. "He is my godchild! My godchild! Attired trusted me! Not you, ME!"

"She did, and if she could see you now, she would be shaking her head in disappointment." Celestia looked ahead once more and continued to march, not wanting to hear any more of Tempo's excuses.





"To this day, I still remember what you said to me, not letting our emotions guide our actions, and there is a way to do things." Tempo looked down in anger and frustration. "I still find it ironic because according to the law, I was in the right. That colt assaulted a member of the royal family and needed to be placed in a juvenile correctional facility as a result." She then looked back at Celestia. "Instead, you PITIED him and went easy on him while I was ordered into exile for failing as Blueblood's legal guardian. So tell me, Celestia, how can I not take it personally how you claim not to place yourself above the law while doing just that?"

"You can't," Celestia confessed, looking down in shame, "Because you are right, that night no matter what would have happened, rage blinded me, I just…I just wanted to find someone to punish, and even if there was a clear one to do so, I couldn't do it, and instead, I ended up choosing you. Tempo, there are no words that could describe how sorry I'm. I did something terrible, and it took me twenty years to see it. Now I can only beg the stars for a miracle and hope against all hope that the bridge hasn't burned down completely."

Everything remained silent for a moment before Tempo sighed again. "It will be a long, tense, and maybe even awkward process, but there might be hope." The pegasus nodded, brightening the Princess's mood immensely as she looked up at the ex-wonderbolt in hope.

"For now, I only want to know the why. Why Celestia? Why me? What force made you look at that colt who had so much evidence piled against him, and yet, you looked away?"

"Because just thinking about it would open an ancient scar from my past, one not even Luna knows, and…if possible I…I would prefer if you keep it a secret."

Tempo's eyes widened in realization. "O-Of course, if you truly are willing to trust me with something this huge I…I can only prove my loyalty to keep it."

"Thank you. I couldn't even hold it against you if you need to speak about it, but I still would greatly appreciate it if you keep quiet." Taking a deep breath and closing her eyes, Princess Celestia ready herself to continue, "Crossfire I…I will never be able to have a child of my own."

Upon hearing her friend gasp, the Princess looked back at her with an understanding smile. "Do not fret too much about it, my friend; long ago, I made my peace with that revelation, but the truth of the matter is, well, call it a crack in this supposedly perfect goddess image ponies have built around me. But I have a congenital disability, and my body could simply never sustain life. If I ever dare, the fetus will burn inside me, robbing it of a chance at life before even taking its first breath."

"The mare of the sun…such a title, It holds a huge price to pay." Tempo summarized, looking at the Princess with a mix of pity and sorrow, as Celestia can't do anything but nod in agreement.

"That is why I cut myself off completely to the possibility and built a hole in my heart, one I later filled by opening a school for colts and fillies and guiding the next generation into a brighter future. if I can't be a part of a child's life, I will, at the very least could encompass a small fraction of it, and to this date, it worked." She chuckled briefly and cleared a tear from her eye. "You could say that my maternal tendencies could be a result of that form of coping."

"And when it comes to your biological family, like Blueblood, those instincts just increase to insane levels." Tempo summarized as Celestia confirmed it.

"Few are the things that could throw me into a blind rage, but inflicting harm on my kids, especially those that serve as possible my only connection and proximity of being a real mother, can easily trigger it. Tempo I wanted to see reason by the stars, to understand what happened there but a kid? I froze, not knowing how to proceed, and in the heat of the moment, I projected my insecurities onto you and made you take undeserving fault. I just…I couldn't bring myself to harden my heart like that, even less for what happened to his family, yes he needed to be restrained temporarily in the dungeon, and yes, the law was more than clear. And for that, I'm so sorry for my actions."

Tempo looked down in thought for a solid minute before speaking again. "Come with me," She replied, standing up and leaving the massage table, confusing the Princess.

"Where are we going?"

"To the valley of feathers, it is clear that we both need to let go of all this baggage. And this is the only way for us to remove all this tension between us."

"Valley of feathers? Tempo, where exactly are you taking me?" Celestia kept questioning as she followed close behind. Rather than answer, Tempo kept her eyes forward and continued talking.

"I don't want to keep this bad blood between us either, Celestia." She said, completely determined, "I'm at fault here too, that colt was emotionally unstable, and because of his age, I didn't think he would react that violently or that he could inflict that much harm even if it were to happen." She sighed as they both walked through the hallways.

"Of course, I still was furious with you for throwing me out of the castle, but then Sharp Shooter contacted me and helped me work through my issues just like I intend to do with yours."

"Sharp Shooter help you?" Celestia looked at her in surprise, not expecting to hear that revelation, as she nodded. "He even gave me this necklace to work against my inner demons. It's not just a pretty rock Celestia. It has a minor enchantment on it that helps you work through your stress, your anger, and even your sadness." She elaborated as they approached a set of golden doors at the far end of the room, with an inlay on the door that read "The Feather Room."

"It was this that inspired me to open this place, to share the properties of this special gem with others and help them work with their problems, something I'm sure they can do with you too."

The mood swings! That must be it! That gem is most likely dulling her senses. That is why her emotions are bursting so erratically.

"You have no idea how good it feels to get that off of my chest Celestia. Even with the gem, I always felt like this was something we needed to talk about."

"Tempo, that gem…." Celestia tried to warn her, but before she could say anything, the double doors opened, and from it stepped out none other than the captain of the wonderbolts with a calm, relaxed smile on her face, a yellow robe that matched her fur, and an exact copy of the necklace that Tempo was wearing. "Oh yeah, that is what I needed," She said to herself, blinking the drowsiness away so she could notice the Princess and ex-wonderbolt in front of her. Even with the revelation, she didn't seem all that surprised and only smiled and nodded at them.

"Oh, hey, Princess didn't see you there. Are you heading in?" She casually wondered, pointing at the hall of feathers behind her.

"Captain Spitfire? What are you doing here?" Celestia looked at the pegasus with a raised eyebrow. Her suspicions of the true nature of the necklace both mares were wearing grew.

"She came some time ago to discuss something about the new team."

"Oh hey, that's right! I knew I came here for a reason." Spitfire exclaimed before laughing at her forgetness. "Gosh, those feathers don't only make time fly by. They leave your mind devoid of thought, don't they?" She jokes before leaving, "Oh well, I suppose I can go back to that after my shiatsu. Talk to you later, Princess." Spitfire called out before flying off, continuing to add questions to Celestia's mind.

Ok, something is wrong here. I must be cautious.

"So, are you ready?" Temple called from inside the room. Princess Celestia was so focused on the captain's strange behavior that she didn't realize her friend went ahead and entered the room, leaving her no choice but to follow behind but not before placing detection and protection spells silently all over herself, readying herself for the worst.

Once inside, the Princess noticed that the room was covered from ceiling to floor in a blanket of pure white feathers. Mountains of them were scattered all over the place where ponies with dopey smiles were laying on them, blissfully sleeping in a literal bed and pillow of feathers. At the same time, the spa workers serve them little snacks for them to enjoy or place the same necklace on their necks.

"It feels nice, doesn't it?" Tempo questioned, stopping in the middle of the room next to a giant grey feathery round pillow that rested on a rotating platform. "A plumage bath using nothing but the very best and softest feathers Equestria could ever offer." Tempo mentions caressing the pillow with her hoof. "The pride and joy of The Golden Oasis, only we can offer this kind of treatment that guarantees complete and utter satisfaction. Don't they feel wonderful just grazing your hooves?"

Realizing what she meant, Celestia looked down, and indeed with the floor cover with said feathers, it was impossible not to feel the sensation. Softness, and yet with a firm consistency. Indeed these feathers were something else, even more comfortable than velvet, and the slight fragrance they gave off, all together, was enough to start to relax her muscles.

"Yes…they do?" She confessed, trying to shake the sense of drowsiness that loomed over her mind and focus, "Tempo, that necklace of yours…you shouldn't be wearing that much. I think it is clouding your mind and numbing your emotions…I'm sorry, but I think that is making you react most erratically."

"Well, of course, it does!" Tempo confessed, still wearing her calm smile. "That's exactly what Sharp wanted"

"What?" Celestia wanted to be more surprised, but for some reason, her body was feeling extremely heavy. Without realizing it, she sat down to feel more of these beautiful feathers as Tempo continued.

"Yeah, I mean this  isn't even the real me, me" Grabbing the platform, she spun the pillow on the platform it was on, revealing that it wasn't a pillow all and instead what Celestia was looking at was none other than a bloated, corpulent version of her friend, wearing a golden necklace with a plate, covered with the same gems Tempo was wearing, and soundly asleep. "This is me."

"What is happening?" Celestia asked while fighting the urge to close her eyes.

"Just a moment, I think I could explain better." the regularly sized Tempo asked before laying in a mountain of feathers and closing her eyes, falling asleep as the gem shined blue. Her body then changed into a mare with purple fur and a yellow mane. One of the gems in Tempo shine, and the bloated pegasus woke up with tired eyes as she looked at Celestia.

"Now we can talk properly."

"Tempo…you are controlling these mares?" Celestia looked at her equally tired.

"Control? No, if anything, I make things easier for them" She yawned before continue "If they are forgotten, at the very least, I can grant them some form of peace of mind."

"Why are you doing it?"

She sighs in irritation. "Can't we just relax and sleep?" She suggested with exasperation before yawning again, "Oh well, it would not matter anyway, soon you will join us, my body was experimented on far too much, my fur and feather have stopped being normal a long time ago, not even the magic of an alicorn can resist their allure." She sighed in tiredness and defeat. "I once tried to resist too, you know? When I figured out what Sharp Shooter was doing to me, I was naturally angry but by then. There was little I could do. I was too tired to go against his plans."

"What are his plans?" The Princess lazily asked, laying her head on the feather floor.

"Heavens, if I know. I only know that he used this place for recruitment. Those that work are taken away and trained before my feathers finish claiming them and sap them of their magic and energy. Those that don't are tossed in and left here. It's all an illusion, Celestia. This isn't even a spa. It is just a front for a dumping ground for the rejected ones or those that get in his way. Like I did back in the day." She confessed in sorrow.

"I thought he was my friend, but then after experimenting with me until I ended up like this. I realized the truth. He never truly forgave me for rejecting his ideas. He no longer was my friend, and he possibly never was, and now I'm just too tired to rebel or do anything against him. Without my avatars, if I stand up, I only want to sit, if I talk, I only want to stay quiet, if I want to stay awake, I…only want…to sleep." That is the last thing she managed to say before sleep claimed her once more and returned to her copy as she slowly made her way to the sleeping form of Celestia.

"I'm so sorry, Celestia." She looks at the Princess in sorrow, using another copy of herself while placing another necklace around Celestia's neck. "But it's too late for me…." She looked up at her proper form "it too late for all of us. Sharp Shooter has already won. The only thing left of us to do is rest and keep away from his path" Keeping her head low, Tempo left the room to attend to the rest of her clients, the original shedding a tear as she slept.

For days no one realized the danger that the spa held, not until a particular mental link revealed the dark secret and threw the Princess of the night into immediate action, ignoring the storm that was brewing and how an unaware Prince was walking right into the middle of it.

"Thanks for everything, Pinkie. I had a great time," Blueblood commented as he exited the bakery. “I had so much fun learning how to make birthday cakes, didn’t though it was even possible make one with five floors” 

"I'm so glad to hear it. I had fun with my very first super-duper special colt/filly sleepover!" She was about to hug him when Blueblood used his magic to stop Pinkie in her tracks, confusing the party mare.

"Please, Pinkie, I know how much you like hugs, so allow me to give you this one" He smiled and approached, gently wrapping his forehooves around her neck and toward her back and then pressing their chests together not too tight as to hurt her with his face lightly press against the side of her head.

Slightly startled, Pinkie followed suit and reciprocate the gesture. She didn't know why but the sensation was pleasant, and she didn't want to ruin it by adding any more force as she was trying to wrap her mind around why her body was shivering slightly.

Nothing is falling, right, no earthquakes, it's not Twilight spying on me…hmm, what is this new Pinkie sense?

She felt a pang of disappointment when the hug ended, and the prince nodded. "Well, I'm off to see Rainbow Dash and don't worry, Pinkie. I will consider the party signal."

"Thank you" She smiled more calmly than she intended and waved at him as he departed. Once gone, she turned around and saw Mr. Cake smiling at her. "So…how was your first sleepover with a stallion, Pinkie?"

"Oh, it was great, Mr. Cake. I loved it very much." She nodded, calmly shocking the baker greatly.

"Ah, if you excuse me, I think I will go prepare for today's shift," She informed him, actually walking toward the kitchen as Ms. Cake, who was descending the stairs, looked on and was slack-jawed by the display.

"Did…Did Pinkie walk instead of bounce to the kitchen?"

"Yep." Her husband nodded once, still unable to form a coherent sentence.

"She never does that."

"Aha," Mr. Cake shook his head.

"What exactly happened to her last night?"

"Not sure, honey, but I think Pinkie has lots on her mind…and maybe a new view on stallions."

Unknown to them, the figure of Desire was watching the scene equally confused.

O…k, how…who…what happened? I didn't do anything. They simply hugged…did he…what? She was looking back and forth at the kitchen and in the direction the prince went.

Ah…three down? Shaking her head, she smirked again, And only one left to go, time to set the stage for the party. She chuckled lightly before disappearing once again.
> Dazzling Sleep Over (Edited By BS And NS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Exiting Rainbow Dash's house, the pegasus flew around a slightly tired Prince as he made his way to a cloud which she pushed and helped him land safely on the ground before she settled herself down in front of him. "So what did I tell you? Can I throw an awesome sleepover or what?"

"Yep, you were one incredible host, Rainbow Dash. I had a lot of fun. I'm not exactly too keen on vegetable dishes but that stew of yours…."

"Ah, pa, pa!" She quickly silenced him with a deep blush. "What did I tell you about appearances?"
"What's so wrong with being an incredible chef?" He asked, confused.

"Nothing, but when you want to maintain the image of a wonderbolt, you need to keep a degree of mystique. I prefer my fans finding out on their own instead of exposing everything right away." She concluded

"Ah, I get it."

"You better remember. That is the trick when facing those other royals." She reminded him. "It's all about projecting confidence. Let your best features speak for you first. If you want others to trust you, you first need to project and prove you can look out for them and be trusted. Be a figure of strength, security, awesomeness, and just the right amount of sexy."

"Sexy?"

"Believe me. It is a factor that adds to the alluring angle." Rainbow explained before looking around. "Like…that rock over there." She points at a pebble nearby. "You see that, and what do you imagine you can do with it?"

"Ah, throw it in a pond, maybe?"

"Exactly, but you don't picture that as a home or a cave, right?"

"Well, of course not. That is a pebble."

"And you are the Prince and ponies always must see that first, THEN you show the first layer of awesomeness, and then the next one and then the next one and so on."

"I still don't think you can explain things by saying 'it's awesome.'" The Prince remarked with a roll of his eyes.

"That is because you are not as awesome as I." She boasted confidently.

"And, what were all the obstacle courses about?"

"Oh, that was for sheer fun, and I wanted to see exactly what Commander Hurricane put you through, not bad, but I bet I could do better. And admit it, you loved challenging yourself."

"I will admit it was fun. I didn't think I could challenge myself like that."

"It leaves you with a sensation of accomplishment, doesn't it?" Dash grinned with pride. "If you can keep that up, you might make me sweat in our next sparring match."

"Whatever you say, I still had a great time, Rainbow Dash. I hope we can do it again someday. And thanks for the advice. I will keep it in mind." He extended his hoof.

"Anytime, and yeah, I enjoyed our time together. It was surprisingly cool having a colt sleepover. You don't mind me burping as much as Twilight and the others do." She said, completing the gesture.

"Better keep practicing because I'm coming for that rematch, and I intend to win this time around."

"Ha, keep dreaming, Blue." Dash kept boasting and waved goodbye as he left and headed for his next sleepover, ignoring a distressed light blue pegasus with dark blue mane and tail running straight to Rainbow Dash's house, followed soon by the two flying away as fast as they could.

Arriving at Carousel Boutique, Blueblood noticed how the place was bustling, as clients were looking around at Rarity's latest creations—as he walked through the front door, announced by a small bell.

"Just a minute, I will be with you in a moment~" Rarity called from the other room, no doubt attending to another client, making the prince chuckle.

"It's ok, Rarity, take your time. I can wait." Blueblood called back as he went and took a seat on a nearby couch, leaning on his backpack as he placed it next to him, and pulled out a book to read.

Soon after, the last client left, and Rarity waved them goodbye and turned to look at the Prince. "Ok, all done. Sorry for keeping you waiting, darling." She entered the room before pausing when she noticed his backpack. "Oh, my."

"Before you ask, this is mostly Aunt Celestia being a tad bit overprotective."

"I can certainly see it." She giggles at the idea. "Although, I wouldn't be thinking of this as 'a tad', darling."

"Eh, it doesn't matter to me too much; in fact, it gives me enough space to carry this." Blueblood fished around his equipment before retrieving a big long white box that he presented to the tailor, noticeably reducing the size of the backpack.

"Oh, my! For me?" Rarity puts her hoof on her chest in surprise as Blueblood nods with a big grin. "Just a little something I picked up during my travels. It made me think of you, go ahead and open it."

Curious, Rarity took the package in her magic and placed it on a nearby table so she could open it properly, revealing a beautiful starry fur fabric, making her gasp in surprise.

"Blueblood, is…is this what I think it is?"

"Do you like it? I wove it myself right from the source."

"The SOURCE!?" She spun around and looked at him in shock. "Y-You mean you faced an Ursa Major!?"

"Yeah? Why the…NO! Not like that!" Blueblood raised his hooves in fake surrender. "I simply caught one at a good moment, right when it was shedding season."

"Huh?"

"You see, every couple of years, a fully mature Ursa Major's fur grows too long for their comfort, so during that time, they search for mountains or canyons with sharp edges to rub their bodies against and shed the excess. When returning to Equestria, I stumbled into one in distress from not finding a mountain tall or spiky enough. Hurricane thought it would be a good opportunity to train, so between the two of us, we assisted her with our swords." Blueblood ended the tale with a chuckle. "Boy, was she grateful afterward, to this day. I don't know if she gave me a kiss or a bath."

"And this fur…."

"The same fur, woven and ready to be used as material for anything. I thought you might like it."

"But…but this couldn't possibly be all of it! If what you are saying is true, where is all that fur?"

"Yeah, I have a mountain of it back at Canterlot. Thank Discord for helping move it. I planned to sell it and donate it to tailors all over Equestria and wanted you to have first dibs on the goods. So what do you say? Does it inspire you?"

"Oh my, Blueblood, I'm not sure what to say." Rarity confessed, looking away, trying to find a proper reply. Her silence soon sent a bolt of dread and worry down the Prince's spine.

"Oh, dear, I did it again. I put you in a tense situation." He took a step closer, wholly mortified. "I'm so sorry, Rarity. I didn't mean any offense. I genuinely thought you might like the starry fabric, but now I realize I don't even know if you ever work with fur."

"N-NO! It's ok." She was quick to dismiss his concerns. "I love the present, I do. And you are right. This is new for me, but  seeing it now gives me an idea or two for my designs and challenges me  with a new project. Which I simply love. Even if the fur isn't exactly  my cup of tea, it was a lovely gesture, Blueblood. I am simply  astonished that you would go out of your way to give me a present as  divine and radiant as this one, that's all." She looked down and away in embarrassment and with some degree of shame.

"Especially since how we haven't had the chance to talk alone since…my little incident."

"I thought we agreed not to speak about Anne…."

"AH!" She raised her hoof with an intense blush. "THAT remains unspoken thank you very much. I was mostly referring to what earned that punishment in the first place."

"Oh…that." He said, subconsciously rubbing his cheek as an awkward silence soon filled the room.

"Rarity, I need to tell you…."
"Blueblood, I need to tell you…."

They stumbled over each other's words, making them pause and clear their throats.

"You go first, darling, I insist." Rarity was the first to recover.

"Thank you." He nodded once before taking a deep breath. "Rarity, what happened there…and before. I know you said we are ok now, but I wanted to tell you that I understand how this kind of things takes time."

"N-no, it's ok. I meant it back there. I want us to start over and, well, put what happened behind us for good, like a pesky memory not worth mentioning."

"Yeah, I would love that…well that and to find a way to break all of this weird tension we have going on." He half-joked as they both wracked their brains, trying to find a way to lighten the mood a little bit— Desire watching the display with an intrigued grin.

My, my, what do we have here. An extinguished flame? Aw, crushed after it was first sparked and built under the illusion of imagination and wishful thinking, so sad, this won't do whatsoever. Let's rekindle that and add some proper kindling for the fire. 

Getting to work, she touched Rarity's shadow, and instantly the memory of Blueblood rescuing her flooded back into her head full force, especially when she was left speechless, once she got a good look at her savior while he was on top of her.

"Why suddenly did I remember that?" Rarity said out loud, with wide eyes and a blush on her cheeks.

"Remember what?" The Prince looked at her with a raised eyebrow making her eep and step back.

"N-Nothing, nothing, just something of a…bad memory, that's all." Rarity chuckled nervously as she started to walk away until she noticed the raised podium that she used for her measurements, and an idea popped up.

"Say, darling! If it's ok with you, why don't we try to distract ourselves by changing the topic!" She offered in a cheerful tune as she summoned a measuring tape. "I believe I still owe you a dashing outfit from when you first came to Ponyville?"

"Oh, yeah! I remember that, although I'm not sure my real body fits with some of the ideas you had back then."

"Nonsense! I'm a professional, after all, and I've never backed away from a challenge when it comes to ensembles!" She exclaimed in pride, stepping away. "So? Shall we?"

"Sure, it sounds like fun, and it was something I was hoping you could help me with. If that was ok." He admitted with some embarrassment as he stepped onto the podium as she began to take some measurements, gaining her attention.

'My, my, somepony has been hitting the gym.' Rarity's eyes widened slightly at the random thought that crossed through her mind and how her actions unconsciously granted her access to drink in his features more closely. Shaking her head, she, fortunately, was able to regain control and answered the Prince.

"Oh? Really?"

"Who better to ask for this favor than the best tailor in Equestria?…With Coco Pommel being an extremely close second. Rarity, would you make me an outfit with the sophistication and elegance only you could make? One that shows what kind of Prince I aspire to one day become. One that I could wear to face the royals of other nations?" He requested of her with a calm, serene smile, grabbing one of her hooves, leaving her speechless as she couldn't do anything else but to smile and shed a tear from the praise and admiration he had for her work.

"Blueblood, I'm touched" She retracted her hoof and held it against her chest with a big smile. "Is that really what you think of me?"

"Simply put, yes. Despite our differences, you are an incredible mare Rarity. It would be my honor to wear one of your creations when I face the royals in three days. Who knows? if you want, I can pass your name along with some business cards, so they know who to seek out when looking for a new dress or outfit for themselves."

The Prince's comment made her giggle like crazy in excitement. "With a proposition like that, I'm not even sure which of us should be more honored." She finished taking his measurements and levitated a quill and parchment over to write them down. "Anything in particular that you would like me to add to your outfit, darling?"

"Oh, dear, that is kind of a big question. I can't decide, would it be  ok if we try more than one option? Also, where do you stand with the  option of capes?" He asked worriedly and soon turned around in confusion at her silence. It was only then that he saw her eyes light up and grin ear to ear, almost copying Pinkie Pie's smile.

"Well, darling, I say you just made this sleepover fabulous!~" She rushed into her studio and started brainstorming ideas as the sleepover kicked off in earnest.

It wasn't until the clock struck past midnight when things finally died down as both ponies enjoyed some tea in Rarity's kitchen as Rarity educated the Prince with some minor advice on how to approach and deal with flirtatious mares.

"Flirting back? You're kidding." Blueblood raised an eyebrow at her statement.

"I'm telling the truth. You would be surprised how many mares' confidence will crack the moment their targets decide to return the favor and start showering them with praise and innocent innuendos. Plus, as a prince, being able to indulge in some flirting is a given."

The Prince can't help but chuckle at her statement. "Good one, Rarity, everyone knows that stallions can't flirt. That's something only a mare can do."

"While I agree a mare can have an easier time in the mastery of that tool, it doesn't mean a stallion can't dominate too. Anyone can play the flirting game, darling, IF they apply the correct approach.

"Ok, I will bite. What is the correct approach?" Blueblood half-joked half asked, intrigued by her suggestion. Standing up and approaching the mare. "Could it be something as simple as just holding a mare's hoof-like this?" He demonstrated by gently taking Rarity's right hoof and lifting it, startling the poor mare. "Maybe add a small kiss, and then just gently and calmly ask…?" He did as he explained and looked at her with a calm smile. "May I have this dance, my lady?"
Freezing in place, Rarity could only gulp at his forwardness and behind her. A teapot started to whistle from the heat, which managed to snap her out of shock and retrieved her hoof after a couple of seconds. "Well…" Looking away, she coughs a couple of times, "t-That could be an excellent start!"

"Rarity, I was joking." Blueblood looked at her in surprise. "That couldn't have possibly have worked with you. You're way better than that. A lady of class and independence, some fancy words, and a kiss couldn't possibly be able to melt your heart…right?"

"No! Of course not, darling! It will take more than that to get a reaction out of me." She quickly dismissed him with a wave of her hoof.

'By Celestia, why don't you just kiss me already!'

"But back on track" She walked to the kitchen and turned off the stove. "You weren't too far off, see? A stallion can be flirtatious too. It's all about subtlety and confidence. You come on too strong, and you come across as desperate or a jerk. Too weak, and at best, mares will pity you, and THEN you become an easy target. But if you balance it just right, then no mare will ever get the jump on you."

"Sounds logical. Do you think you could teach me a little about it?"

"Well?" She brought her hoof to her chin and pondered the idea. "I might be able to give you some minor pointers." She smirked and looked at him. "And while we are at it, I believe a certain Prince still owes me one dance."

Blueblood chuckled and nodded with closed eyes. "I wouldn't mind that, don't go getting any funny ideas, though, ok? I'm not going to propose after just dancing the night away."

"Oh, pish posh, darling! That was just an exaggerated fantasy my past self had. I have grown since then."  They both shared a small laugh as they moved to her living room, where Rarity levitated one of her vinyl records onto her gramophone and played a slow waltz for the two to dance to.

Starting with a nice bow, they both grasped each other's hooves and brought themselves closer. They started their little dance. "I'm sorry if this wasn't what you were expecting." Blueblood whispered.

"It's ok, darling, this is better." Rarity replied. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the dance.

"Still, I heard how much you were pining for a dance at the Grand Galloping Gala, and well, if you still want it, I can promise you the first dance next time and help you get the evening you wanted in the first place."

Rarity let herself take a moment to coo internally at his words before speaking again. "That is so considerate of you, darling, but it's ok. You don't need to go out of your way to make up for a mistake that your past self made." Opening her eyes, she separated from him a little to regard him. "Now enough with the gloomy talk, I'm supposed to be teaching you about the art of flirting, am I not?" She raised an eyebrow at him with a smirk.

Chuckling, he nodded once. "Sorry, lead the way teacher, what should I do first?"

"Well, the art of flirting is one part confidence, one part bravery, and just a spoonful of control." She said before getting closer to him. "First lesson, eye contact." She demonstrated, refusing to take her gaze off him. "Be subtle, gentle, and careful but always try to keep your focus on the prize. Try to make your date look at you without forcing anything."

"Got it."

Nodding, they continued to dance as Rarity kept giving him pointers and tips on how to be playful and flirtatious when facing a mare and figure out ways to identify and defuse tactics that mares might try to use on him. Neither of them realized how long they were dancing or were aware of the notion of time until they decided to take a small break and sit on her couch, which soon became their improvised bed.

The next day, the sound of Rarity yawning managed to wake the Prince up as he slowly opened his eyes in contentment, feeling a fluffy and comfortable blanket hugging him closely until he felt it move. When his eyes finally adjusted, he was greeted by the vision of Rarity embracing his frame as she seemed to have slept on top of him, judging by the slightest pool of drool on his chest.

"Good morning, darling."

"Morning, Rarity"

They greeted each other lazily until everything slowly dawned on the two and their eyes gradually widened in realization. "Ah, Rarity?"

"Yes, darling?"

"Did we fall asleep without noticing it last night?"

"It appears so." She slowly nodded and tapped the edge of her couch, sighing in relief, and then chuckled nervously. "Seems like we both lost track of time." She slowly stood up and looked away with a blush. "Ah, s-sorry about the d-drool, darling."

"It's…ok." Blueblood slowly sat as well. "As you said, it was kind of an accident, and we lost track of time…plus, your fur is very soft."

"Why, thank you, darling! You know, not to brag or anything, but the hygiene and maintenance of my fur is something I pay serious attention to ensure it stays glossy, dazzling, and soft." She beamed with pride before looking away with blush too. "Ah…y-your fur was very soft too. What shampoo do you use?"

"I don't know its name at the moment. but Princess Platinum recommended it."

"I see…I will have to ask her then.

An awkward silence started to fill the room until the Prince decided to break it. "Rarity, would you like to have some breakfast and maybe don't speak about this again?"

"Yes, please! Thank you!" She eagerly accepted his proposal and hastily rushed to the kitchen with the Prince close behind.

And…yep it's… it's engraved in my mind now, My, my chiseled AND soft at the same time? This stallion is a double threat, one with eyes and a personality too. It's a quadruple threat.'

Rarity shook her head, trying to clear her mind.

"Rarity?" Blueblood looked at her, confused.

"Is everything ok?"

"Yes, yes it is, darling, don't worry about me. Your suit will be ready before your meeting."

"Ah…that wasn't what I…."

"Oh, look at the time! We better make this breakfast brief. You wouldn't want to make Starlight and Twilight wait, right? It is rude to leave a mare waiting." She then started to work fast on cooking breakfast for two, not letting the Prince say anything else, while from the shadows, a smirking Desire watched the show play out.

'Ah, nothing like a blooming love raising from the ashes, this mare is by far the most adorable of the bunch! She returned to Canterlot, where Scarlet was admiring a cage of haloed rings made from vines with a water bubble housed in the middle showing all the mares that Desire had tagged. "It is done, sweetie!" Scarlet's shadow whispered in her ear.

"Excellent! Then it is time to start setting up the party." They both shared a laugh as they prepared for the next phase of their plan.
> Glimmering Lesson (Edited By NS And BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Knocking a couple of times, the Prince waited patiently in front of Twilight's crystal castle to have his sixth and final sleepover of the week, as well as his last crash course before meeting with the royals of other nations. A notion that now had started to loom more in his mind. No matter how much he tried, he couldn't help but start to feel nervous about the whole ordeal.

Soon the double doors opened, and from it, Spike greeted the Prince. "Oh, hey, Blueblood, you came just in time. Starlight and Twilight just finished setting everything up for tonight."

"They set something up for a sleepover?" Blueblood questioned with a raised eyebrow making the dragon chuckle lightly. "You'll see, come on in." Spike invited him inside, and the Prince followed him as they advanced through the hallways.

"So, what is up with the huge backpack?" The dragon eventually asked, pointing at his equipment.

"Aunt Celly got a bit excited about the idea of me going off for a sleepover, so she helped me pack some things, and well, she might have overpacked a little. But hey, at least I'm prepared for any emergency now."

"Yeah, that sounds like Princess Celestia, alright." Spike chuckled at the Sun Princesses' overly cautious notion. Soon the two arrive at Twilight's studio, where they found the mares of the hour going through a list surrounded by books, ink, quills, and papers ready to be used. They were so engrossed in what they were doing that they did not notice the arrival of the Prince and dragon.

"Greetings cousin, hi teacher." Blueblood called out to them both, but neither mare paid him any mind whatsoever as they continued with their list.

"Ah, hello?" He repeated, slightly confused.

"They can't hear you, dude. They're in research mode. Remember when Twilight got all excited when you last visited?" Spike replied with a smirk.

"Oh yeah, she was super engrossed with that spellbook. I didn't think Starlight had the same thing going for her."

“Yep, but don't worry, I know how to get their attention. Watch this." He grinned and then approached a desk where three inkwells and quills were perfectly arranged before slightly rotating one of the quills counterclockwise. Immediately the mare's eyes widened and then jumped to attention like they were just shot, and then they finally noticed the two of them in the room.

"Oh hey, Blueblood, I didn't see you there. When did you arrive?" Starlight greeted him as Twilight went to re-adjust the quill.

"Just did, I tried calling you, but you two seemed to have been busy." Blueblood pointed at the stack of books.

"Haha, sorry, Starlight and I were thinking of ideas for our sleepover, and she wanted to investigate the subject since, well, that is what we did."

"And you got excited, got lost in learning mode, and lost track of time." Spike finished for her. Looking at the Princess with a smirk and a raised eyebrow as he crossed his arms. Twilight couldn't do much other than chuckle nervously and blush from the embarrassment.

"Yep, pretty much."

"You took it personally that Twily and I looked into my dusk form, didn't you, Starlight?" Blueblood mentioned as he picked one of the books and glanced at its contents.

"I'm sorry, I know this isn't what you are supposed to be doing during a sleepover, but come on! It's rare to discover new magic!" Starlight defended herself, tapping on his chest. "New. Magic. Do you know how huge this is? How much professors, researchers, and even inventors would give for just a glimpse of this uncharted territory?! The only reason we haven't shared our results with other researchers yet that would die to know more about this is that we respect you too much, and we need to ask for your approval first."

"Ok, I get it. It piques your interest, doesn't it?" Blueblood raised his hooves in mock surrender while chuckling lightly.

"Yes." Both mares repled in stereo with pleading eyes.

"Well, I'm glad to hear that I got the attention of the Princess of Friendship and one of the greatest teachers of magic. And I'm happy that you are considering my opinion about sharing this with the public. Oh, and as long as you are careful and you compare notes with ponies, and you can give me your word that they are trustworthy, I don't see any issues."

"Thank you." They both sigh in relief at his approval as he put the book back down and looks at one of the scrolls. "And what exactly were you researching anyway? This looks more like history and geography books from all the maps and landmarks I see on these pages."

"Oh, I think you are gonna love this!" Twilight proclaimed excitedly as she pulled a chalkboard toward her using her magic and looked to her assistant. "Spike, could you bring us a teapot and cups and some mini sandwiches while I explain everything to Blueblood?"

"On it." He saluted and left the room, but not before patting Blueblood's chest. "Good luck, dude."

Blueblood watched the small dragon as he left, confused by his statement before being nudged into a chair that Starlight summoned behind him as she and Twilight started to write on the board.

"You see, ever since we agreed on having six different sleepovers, Starlight and I have been racking our brains thinking about what exactly we could do for ours."

"And after a lot of deliberation, and as an apology for getting ahead of ourselves, we came up with an idea." The two wrote furiously on the chalkboard until they showed him a diagram of the ghostly alicorns he had been encountering and what appeared to be a list of spells he didn't recognize.

"A magic/ research lesson sleepover!" They announced in excitement, and Blueblood could only blink a couple of times at the news.

"A magic, research what?"

"It's perfect!" Twilight approached with a big grin. "I have a list of potential spells that I'm pretty sure you would love to have, just in case for the meeting with the other royals, and I'm sure with how fast of a learner you are, getting the basics down will be a sinch." She levitated an open book towards him, pointing at one particular spell that piqued his interest greatly. "I know a transmutation spell that should turn you bipedal and give you hands for a short while~" She singsonged, sweetening the deal. He was about to grab the book when Starlight caught his attention, also holding another book.

"And after hearing your stories and description of those ghostly alicorn figures, I started to dig around in the Canterlot archives and with some old contacts that I have until I found just the book we needed. I know who they are, Blueblood! And how they are connected to cosmic forces that you can't possibly imagine, we might even be able to figure out exactly what these mares want, and why they chose you to engage in this bizarre test." Starlight matched Twilight's enthusiasm leaving the poor Prince overwhelmed by their energy. He leaned back a little to breathe and collect his thoughts on what the two were saying.

Meanwhile, On The Outskirts of Appleloosa

Pacing back and forth, Luna kept staring at the train tracks for the Elements of Harmony. Her anxiousness and worries kept growing for each passing minute where neither the elements nor the squad sent to bring them here arrived.

Where in my moon are Twilight and the rest of the Elements!? Luna stopped and glared at the distance, in the direction of Ponyville. They should be here by now!

"Your majesty." One of her Thestrals approached the distressed Princess and saluted once he was close enough.

"At ease, soldier." She commanded, allowing him to relax.

"I come with news, Princess. One of the scouts spotted and intercepted the Element of Loyalty, your highness. She is being escorted to the base right now."

The news managed to put her mind at ease. "At last, they have arrived. Now we can formulate a proper attack plan." She marched to their tent determinedly, with her soldier following close behind.

"That is the thing, Princess. She never received the news."

"What?" Luna questioned as she opened the tent and was greeted by a distressed Rainbow Dash and Soarin looking back at her.

"Her arrival is sheer coincidence. Our soldiers never reached Ponyville, according to her claims."

"Princess Luna?" Rainbow Dash questioned, approaching her. "Ok, seriously, what gives? What are you all doing here?"

She could only sigh and look down in disappointment. "I could be asking you the same thing, Rainbow Dash." She lifted her head and noticed the stallion next to her. "Both of you, for that matter, two days ago, I sent a squad to procure the Elements for an emergency when I found out that my sister has been foalnapped."

"Foalnapped!?" Both ponies exclaim in horror, with wide eyes as she nods.

"But, by your reactions, it is clear that the foe we are facing is far more dangerous than I previously anticipated if they managed to intercept my message and keep all of you in the dark." She looked into the distance, deep in thought, trying to figure out what to do now. "Which brings me back to my original question, it is a blessing from the heavens that at the very least one of the Elements has arrived regardless of our foe's efforts, but if you didn't come here to aid us, then what brought you here? I was of the impression that you would be entertaining my nephew at a sleepover, Rainbow Dash."

"I did. It wasn't until Soarin flew to my house after Blue left that we rushed here as fast as we could." Dash explained with a reignited sense of urgency as the pegasus stepped forward.

"It's our captain, Princess Luna. I think she is in trouble too."

"Is that so?" Luna quirked an eyebrow, intrigued as the stallion nodded rapidly.

"Last I saw her. She was going to visit Crossfire Tempo to discuss dates and times for our team, so we don't run into conflicts with her new one all the time. She promised it would be a two-day trip, and then she would be back."

Luna's eyes widened slightly the moment she heard the name of her foe once again.

"That was one week ago, she hasn't come home, she ditched her job as a captain, and she didn't even send a letter explaining herself. She's vanished!" His voice got progressively more and more distressed as he spoke.

"That's not like Spitfire at all." Dash spoke once again. "Something bad happened, And right now, that spa is our only clue. That is why we rushed in here."

"I'm afraid that while your hunch is correct, the situation is even more dire than that." Luna confessed with a hint of pity for the terrorized ponies. "I believe the mare responsible for holding hostage my sister, and most likely your captain is one and the same. Crossfire Tempo."

"What? B-But that doesn't make any sense. Why would she even do that?" They started to get hysterical until Luna stopped them using her magic. "Please calm down, you two. I will explain everything in detail if you just…."

Suddenly, she lost her voice as another headache washed over her, freezing in place for a moment before she dropped to the floor and held her forehead with one hoof. "No, please no, not now!" She begged, but it was already too late. A new memory was forming, and there was nothing she could do about to prevent it.

"Princess!" Dash and Soarin rushed to her side in worry, standing next to her. "What is happening? Is something wrong?" Soarin questioned, trying to think of something to do to help.

"Do not worry, you two. This isn't something for you to be concerned about. I only need to ride this out and then…."

At that moment, a soldier rushed inside the tent. "Your highness, we have a problem! A sand storm just formed outside our camp, and it is fast approaching." He used his magic to close the tent in time for the walls to be buffeted by the harsh winds, and they could hear the raging storm outside. "It's terrible, your highness! We have no choice but to ride this out until it's over."

She wanted to issue an order, but it was too late, and the wind picked up with such force the tent blew away. No one could see anything beyond their snouts, as Luna could only close her eyes and allow herself to be transported into yet another forgotten memory.

Back At Twilight Castle

Once the Prince managed to calm down the two overly enthusiastic mares, and after taking a small snack break, courtesy of Spike, who promptly left to bed soon after, the three decided to allow Starlight to start things off with her lesson before discussing spells. To prevent Twilight from accidentally hijacking the sleepover by getting too excited and losing track of time.

"Ok, here it goes." Starlight started her lesson by drawing the planet and seven arrows pointing at it. "An extremely long time ago, back when the world was still young, and Grogar had not yet been born, there were seven beings that some believe were living manifestations of cosmic forces linked to reality itself. Records of their exploits can only be found in legends and rumors so ancient that anyone would believe them to be just fairy tales. That is if not for the fact that we have met one of them."

She drew the image of Discord. "Back then, he went by another name, but by his description and powers, this was Discord."

"Ok, I think I get where this is going. Is this the story of him and all of his siblings?" Blueblood raised an eyebrow with interest as she smiled and nodded.

"Correct, I will be brief because they don't play too much of a factor, but it is important to point out she is his sister. And I kind of like the titles they give them."

"Wait, if Discord has been around for so long, how come he waited like millions of years before turning Equestria into chaos?" Twilight was intrigued as well.

"That is the first thing I asked myself too when I started investigating; it turns out that siblings cancel each other out and produce a sense of balance in the world, even Discord. The mare I'm talking about is his opposite."

She started to put a title under Discord and drew the rest. "Anyway, the legends describe these seven entities as Discord, the mosaic unknown; Death, the specter mare; Despero, the oceanic Breezie; Dream, the desert hack; Desire, the forest dragon; Dis-Tro-Ya, the volcanic Holstaur, and finally the mare we are interested in knowing, Destine, the light alicorn."

She finished drawing each spirit circling the one they were interested in. "Each has their own legends and story, each is aware of their siblings' existence, and as I said before, they can cancel out each other's powers in a cosmic sort of balance. Yet another manifestation of harmony not only in the world. But throughout reality."

"Wow." Blueblood was left speechless at what Starlight told him, making him realize how momentous his talks with some of them were and how he talked with the manifestation of despair or chaos come to life. Starlight erased the pictures, leaving only Destine. "And that's enough about them. They all have their stories, but as I said, we are only interested in hers." She pokes Destine's name.

"So here's the thing, according to the legends, Destine was a spirit charged with keeping records and observing the rise and fall of everything, especially kingdoms, which are her bookmarks to establish periods. To do so, she manifested herself as a book with the same name. She entrusted it to a deserving kingdom who enchanted it and cast ancient spells on the book in such a way that only those of the royal lineage, or the ones they deemed worthy, could read it because you see, the book of Destine did more than keep records of everything that was. It also had the information and power over everything that is, and will be, even after the end of existence. By the way, this confirms a continuation after the end of everything."

"Wait, so that book could tell the future, or even tell you anything you needed to know at the moment right there and then?" Blueblood's eyes widened at the implications of such power.

"It goes beyond that. This book is connected with the fabric of reality itself. Whatever you add in or take out would happen. For instance, if you wrote down that 'rocks don't exist" then they would simply cease to exist." Starlight elaborated, visibly worried at the implications. The Prince himself felt a chill run down his spine.

"So, you understand why so many precautions were needed. Power of such magnitude could be devastating in the wrong hooves."

"One can only tremble at the thought alone of what someone with wicked intentions might do with that much power," Blueblood mumbled as he looked away, deep in thought.

"According to the records, the book was entrusted to the rulers of a lost kingdom called Alicornia. Who, in honor of Destine, built the greatest of all libraries called the Equinandrian. It was a massive place where it was believed that everything recorded in the world had a copy there. It was yet another place for Destine to keep track of things and even aid in her sacred duty."

Twilight physically shivered and rolled her eyes with some drool. "S-So many books!"

"And so, for a long while, the kingdom was prosperous and rich with knowledge, and each ruler took into consideration the position of Destine and safeguarded of her precious book."

"Something tells me the story doesn't end well." Blueblood commented in a worried tone. His concerns were confirmed when Starlight nodded and looked down in pity. "Eventually other kingdoms grew jealous of their power, and a race called The Raptorians declared war which resulted in the book being broken apart, and split into three pieces."

"And what happened to the Raptorians?" Blueblood looked at the board, wholly invested.

"I don't know, their records and legends stop there, but considering how they are no longer around, and how no further history or record is known about them. I could only imagine it was a mutual extinction event."

"Oh." Blueblood looked down in shame, hearing how their kingdom ended.

"As for Destine, because she was connected with it, once the book was split, so was she. Causing her, or rather them now, to merge with the remains, and wear their corresponding pieces like bandages, obeying the laws of time. From that point on, the Fates were born. Three alicorn mares that follow the passage of time, each representing an aspect of it."

She drew three arrows below Destine and underneath them three mares, one a filly, another a fully mature mare, and finally an old mare in her golden years.

"Tarot" She pointed at the old mare. "Loyal chronicle of everything that was. The mare of the past dressed with bandages so old they risked falling apart at any moment. Fortune." Starlight moved were to the fully grown mare. "Dedicated recorder of everything there is. Of the three, I think she is the one that gets closer to how Destine at some point looked like, and finally…."

She moved to the filly with bandages brand new and the only one that was blindfolded, as the other two had their left and right eye covered, respectively. "…Vision, eager speaker of everything that will, the sister that can see the future, and tell how something could happen if it continues down its current path."

"Past, present, and future then." Blueblood summarized, looking at their names. "Ok, so that's their story, but the question remains, why their interest in me?"

"I honestly don't know." Starlight paused to think and then looked down. "My best guess is that it involves how you are an anomaly, which explains why they would be able to interact with you more frequently and directly."

"An…anomaly?"

"Oh! I get it." Twilight stands up. "Like the assassination, the…." Her earlier energy left her body as she started to ponder as well. "What if…" She slowly turned to him. "What if that was supposed to be the end, like it was written that Prince Blueblood would die in his bed, drowning in his own hubris, both rhetorically and literally."

"Ok, I can see that—poetic even. But Twilight, if that was true, that means you and your friends would have had to face ponies like Jet Set, Upper Crust, and Fort Knox. You might not have even faced them. Equestria's corruption could have continued under your nose without you even noticing." He pointed out, his worry evident in his tone.

That comment snapped them from their thoughts as their eyes widened. "You changed the course of history." They mumbled at the same time.

"What?" He asked them, confused, as they went to the drawing board once more.

"Of course! The first time you met them. It was after you defeated Fort Knox, right?"

"Y-Yeah, it was Fortune, and she was kind enough even to heal me."

"That's it!" Starlight drew a line and then branched off a second one starting in the middle of the first one. "Originally things ended there, Blueblood dies, or Blueblood lives, but gets scared and tries to do good."

"So far, the story is the same." Twilight nodded and followed down the second line. "But then, Blueblood confronts corruption and saves a damsel in distress."

"Not out of greed, or personal gain, but from an altruistic mind, and wishing to do the right thing." Starlight nodded. "And it caused a ripple effect. A new destiny is woven as a result."

"Going against their existence, reaching into uncharted territory."

"It makes no sense, unless." They started to ponder.

"The three mares are a result of a division that may be…maybe all these years they have been trapped?" Twilight thinks about it.

"Trapped?" Blueblood looked at the two before turning his attention to the board. "You think what happened left them stuck somehow?"

Starlight nods. "It's still just a theory, but there is so little known about the Fates that it is hard to say. If you were stuck only being able to look to either the past, present, or future. Wouldn't you feel trapped?"

"So aiding someone that escaped destiny itself might be their ticket out, and by becoming an alicorn since the ascension magic involves having your past laid bare, it will be like rewriting reality or changing it completely. They might even be aiming to combine into Destine once more." Twilight concludes.

"Ok." He starts to pant at the implication. "No biggy, so the manifestation of what is probably reality itself is broken, and only I can piece it back together by passing through a series of trials. No pressure or anything."

"Hey." Twilight approaches her cousin with worry. "It's ok; this is mostly a theory so far. We could always be wrong."

"Yeah, what Twilight said, you don't need to feel pressure Blueblood, we only want to help you by shedding some light onto this mystery."

"I'm thankful for that, girls; it's just, no matter how you slice it, the Fates have an agenda involving me, and for whatever the reason, it's gonna be big."

The two mares looked unsure of what to say until Twilight got an idea. "Well, I think that is enough for now." She picked up her magic spellbook. "what do you say we move this party to the magic part of it?"

This seemed to do the trick, as Blueblood turned to look at her with great interest as she smirked and opened the book to the page she mentioned earlier. "What do you think, Blue? Would you like to know how to be bipedal again?"

"Heck, yeah, I do! Starlight. You don't mind if we practice some magic now, right?" He asked, concerned as she shook her head. "Not in the slightest. Anything else we say from here would be pure  theory, mostly. I'm also interested in resuming our magic lessons, if  I'm honest. Say, Blueblood, have you ever tried combining two spells at  the same time?" She asked, getting ideas herself. As the party became more magical, and the three spent the rest of the night practicing the list of spells, Twilight prepared for the occasion.
> Tying Undesirable Loose Ends (Edited By NS And )
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Please stay safe, and remember, if you need any advice, or something were to happen, just send me a letter, and I will be there immediately." Twilight finished hugging her cousin as the train to Las Pegasus was boarding.

"If you are lucky, she might even appear wearing a leotard and a tutu too." Starlight adds, earning a glare from Twilight.

"What?" The Prince looked at the two confused.

"Nothing! nothing, just have fun and remember. We are here if you need a pep talk, or one last bit of advice." Twilight quickly says with a forced smile.

"Will keep it mind Twily, thanks for everything really, this last week has prepared me like crazy, I will not let you down, any of you." Blueblood smiles at Applejack, Fluttershy and Pinkie that surprised them on their way to the train station ready with gifts and encouraging final words, before he had to leave, the rest of the elements that came to say their goodbyes at the station.

"Don't sweat it partner, just remember what I told you." AJ lifted an apple to help him jog his memory slightly.

"And don't let them push you around." Fluttershy timidly adds.

"And always keep them smiling." Pinkie concluded as the Prince nodded. "I will keep it in mind girls, thanks." He surprises the 3, bringing them into a group hug that sends shivers down their spines, much to Starlight’s and Twilight’s confusion, as they can only blink from the side. "I had an incredible time with all of you, hope we can repeat it someday, maybe all together this time."

"T-That would be nice." Suddenly all of them reply at the same time, and end the hug refusing to make eye contact with him as he looks confused, before looking back at his cousin. "Well it's a shame Rarity and Rainbow Dash couldn't come, tell them I said hi if you see them and…"

"Wait!" Rarity rushed toward the group in a hurry, and with a slightly messy mane and still wearing her tailor's glasses shoving ponies aside, and levitating a long white box. Once she reaches them, she pants and virtually shoves the box in the Prince's eyes. "Here…it is darling…your suit."

"R-Rarity, did you actually make the suit overnight just so I could…?"

The whistle of the train gets their attention as she lightly pushes the Prince inside. "No time darling, better get going."

"T-Thanks I had an incredible time with you too."

"I did have a nice time as well." She smiles and without thinking kisses his check the moment he picks up the box with his magic, surprising everyone by her sudden show of affection, in time for the doors to close and the train to leave.

Now alone, Twilight and Starlight continue to blink at all of their friends' odd behaviour, as AJ and Fluttershy look at Rarity annoyed and Pinkie seems deep in thought.

"Ah girls, what in the hay has gotten into all of you?" Twilight finally asks.

"Nothing!" They all say simultaneously before looking at each other and then run away in four different directions, adding even more to the Princess' confusion as she looks at Starlight for answers while she could only shrug in reply.

That Night At Canterlot

Taking a sip of her cup of wine, Scarlet admired the starry night in front of her one last time before heading back to her bedroom and approaching a full sized body mirror where her reflection was smiling at her with glowing pink eyes.

"It is time dear, there are still some remaining loose ends to address, but I can deal with them in person now, no need for you to dirty your hooves anymore." Desire raises her hoof and touches the glass, causing it to ripple as if it was made of water. "Just let me out so we can truly begin this party."

"All the wait, all the planning and patiently scheming." Scarlet put her glass down and pressed her hoof against the mirror too. "It's all about to pay off, soon Equestria...no the entire world will see you bloom, once again!"

"And as promised, you will have your beloved Prince in your arms as a reward for my loyal avatar." Desire smirks as Scarlet copies her expression and leans forward so they can share a kiss, causing the mirror to ripple even faster and violently, until the shape of Desire transforms into pure light, and then passes right into Scarlet, shattering the mirror and making her scarf turn into red petals, for her body and horn to elongate slightly and her mascara to deepen as she starts to laugh with two voices speaking at the same time.





"And now, time for the first dance." They spoke, and headed to the balcony where taking a deep breath and standing on her hind legs, Scarlet starts to dance and spin around as her flowers and vines start to sprout and bloom all around her spreading spores into the air, to the four winds at an alarmingly fast rate, announcing the arrival of Desire and her blooming plan.

Starting by putting all of Canterlot in a trance, as every living being there sees their major desires come to life in front of them once they smell of the spores, and then be engulfed in a rose bulb as flora claims the land and covers it in giant scarlet rose petals.

Crystal Empire

Holding the door closed Cadence and the palace guards take a moment to breath as they maintain the infected ponies outside, while sitting on the throne Shining Armor keeps his focus on maintaining the shield surrounding the castle in order to avoid spread the disease, a task that has becoming more difficult with how the flora the zombified ponies carried with them has spread and claimed the castle floors at such a speed that it’s base was starting to overflow and is currently pressing against his astral wall harder and harder for the last couple of days.

During this time, the royal couple have been going around the clock trying to find a solution to the problem on their hooves as magic seems to have no effect on the infected, and only serves to make the flora in their bodies to bloom and spread the alluring, and hypnotic spores they carried faster, and wider, all seem unresponsive, acting more on instinct and a desire to spread, and so far the only weapon that seems to have any effect on them is emotional spectrum magic that seems to cut their connection, and bring the victim pony back to reality although briefly. A small victory that unfortunately by the time it was discovered the royals were grossly outnumbered, and without any alternative force to take refuge in the throne room with their students, and a handful of guards and maids still not infected while coming up with a plan before it was too late.

"My, My, aren't we having a small issue of bad weeds?" The royal's eyes widen when on the rooftop, Discord appears wearing a gardening outfit as he floats to meet them, in particular Shining Armor.

"Hang in there Shining, you wouldn't want your subjects to know how their Prince was bested by a plant right?"

"Discord, now is not the best time for your jokes." He says trying to maintain his concentration glaring at the Draconequus.

"Normally, I would be making a snappy remark but believe it or not, I agree this time." He says with a glare, looking at Cadence. "Can't believe you were out, and back to your old tricks, sis."

"SIS!?" Everyone yells in shock at his claims as he rushes to Cadence, but rather than confront her he literally grabs her shadow. "Now come out Desi, you had your fun, now enough of your games, call off your daisies already…"

"I'm GONNA TRY NOT TO TAKE OFFENSE RIGHT NOW DISCORD!" A booming female voice shakes the room, and letting go of Cadence’s shadow, Discord looks around as a bigger one starts to swirl around the walls until in front of everyone a dragoness figure appears. "You really think I will stoop so low as to choose her as my avatar? HER?!" She points at Cadence in indignation.

"Oh boy you are already in your third phase? This is gonna be hard." Discord mumbles in worry as the royal couple recovers and approaches the shadow creature.

"Can somepony please explain what is happening here?" Cadence asks in anger.

"Don't worry, cheap copy." Desire tells with disdain looking at Cadence. "I'm merely teaching you what true desire looks like." She raises her claw and flora invades the room, surprising everyone.

Meanwhile in the middle of a sandstorm

With the strong winds subsiding Luna finally stands up and open her eyes with a more clear head, only to find herself back at the grassy fields of her old home castle, were she saw her younger self, crying her eyes out, as she approaches a concerned Alicorn Princess reading a robust book floating in the air by her magic. Her mane had a majestic gradient that went from yellow at the base to orange to white forming the illusion of the four seasons as it billows in a non-existence breeze, similar to her long ethereal tail. Her figure resembles closely to Celestia, although much younger, probably at the end of her teen years, and her fur was a light green shade with brown marks at the base of her hooves. Her cutie mark despite the silhouette of the world surrounded by two golden rings hugging it in the middle horizontal and vertical.

Hearing her wailing, the tall alicorn stops reading, and turns to look at her distressed sister. "Luna?"

Her younger self didn't waste time, and jumped to hug the tuft of fur on her chest, as she collected herself. "Luna what is wrong? What happened?"

"Terra! Aunt Platinum just told me something horrible! She told me that mom and dad are dead, that they will never come back! And she is now our new mommy! I don't want a new mommy, I want our mom and dad? Please tell me she is lying, tell me they can come back." She then points at the book. "You can bring them back, right Terra? We can use your magic book and bring them back…right?" She asks between sobs, almost pleading with her to tell her that it was possible.

"Oh Luna." Terra can only hug her sister, and shake her head in sorrow, not being fond of having to discuss the subject anymore than her sister wanted to hear it. "By all my lands, how I wish it could, but that is not how the book works, and even if we try, that would be abusing its power. What came to pass should remain. That way, that is what Destine teaches us, going against that would be abusing the magnificent gift she granted us. The relic mom and dad entrusted us to respect and guard while they sent us here."

"But why?"

She sadly smiles and sits her sister down before showing the book. "Because this is the book of destiny not the book of life and death, what we have is a way to read and see what was, is, and will come to be of everything Lulu. Messing with mortality is another endless job, and they tend to get a bit grumpy when their siblings try to do each other's job. Right Destine?" Terra asks the book itself who turn its pages until it reaches a bland one and start writing itself

'That is correct, greetings Princess Luna.'

The filly Alicorn can't help but to gasp, and points at it while looking at Terra. "It's alive?!"

Her sister chuckles lightly at her antics as she nods. "It sure is, go ahead ask her anything."

She encourages her as the filly wracks her mind, trying to wonder what to ask while her present self watches everything unfold with interest. "Miss Destine, is it really true you can't bring back mommy and daddy back?"

'…I'm sorry Princess.'

Luna was about to tear up and start sobbing until Terra tells her to keep reading. 'But I can teach you how to speak with them.'

"S-Speak!? You can do that?!" She asks more enthusiastically, and hopefully.

'To wield Destine is to see beyond what was and will, if you are patient and let me teach you, step by step like your sister, I can teach you the road ahead of any path you choose, including how to commune with the great beyond, my sister Death is kind. So if asked nicely she would let you talk with them, even if briefly. Those that pass deserve to rest, after all.'

"I-I thank you! Miss Destine I promise I will study hard!"

'The book of Destine? I remember it now, we once held such an incredible artifact. Our parents entrusted it to us but…what happened to it, where did that book go?'

The memory ends and Luna finds herself now standing in what appears to be a giant sandy desert, as she holds her head with one hoof, piecing together what she saw until a groan alerts her and looking ahead of her was shocked to see a behemoth Griffin, half hawk, half lion with four eyes, four wings, two tails and made completely of multicoloured sand splattered on the ground as he slowly wakes up to look at her.

"What now? Why did you have to wake up?" He complains and makes her aware of her surroundings, seeing Rainbow Dash, her mate, and the rest of her soldiers spread all around the desert with wings of sand on top of them with pleasant smiles plastered on their faces.

"Oh?" The griffin slowly approaches Luna to look at her closely. "It’s you."

"Vile creature! What have you done to my subjects!" She demands in defiance extending her wings.

"The same you do every night, ensure they remain asleep in a pleasant dream." He yawns, releasing a strong torrent of sand that almost knocks her over. "Thank you by the way, for doing my job."

"Your job, but how, I…you are one of Discord’s brothers aren't you?" She demanded but he was falling asleep once more. "Answer me!"

"Yes, I am Dream, the blanket of slumblers." He grumpily answered. "Now let me go back to sleep.

"That is impossible, I'm the mare of dreams. How come I never saw you before?" She flies so he sees her eye to eye, and the comment makes him chuckle. "Don't go putting on airs of grandeur Princess of Dreams, a king might rule over a land, but he doesn't rule the land itself." He extended one of his wings and before she could defend herself he buried her under a ton of sand, leaving only her head exposed. "Now go back to sleep, trust me it better this way"

"No! I can't, I must save my sister." She struggles to get free.

"Save her? But Princess, she is already here." Dream comments opening one of his claws and revealing the sleeping form of her sister, next to Tempo, in the same predicament as everyone else present, astonishing the Princess of the Night in the process, and made her realize that she wasn't in Applelossa anymore, somehow he put all of them in a lethargic slumber on top of a deep sleep state, a state that was slowly claiming her as well, as the sand was draining her energy and the sensation was pleasant and numbing making her eyelids heavier, and harder to keep open.

Dream only sighs and looks up.

'There, we are even now, sister. You better not go bothering me anymore, or you will be the one owing me a favor next.' He glares at the sky that has a blooming flower in it sucking all the sand into reality as he falls asleep once more.

Ponyville

Turning and moving their bodies back and forward, four of the elements of harmony were having difficulty having a good night sleep, and images of a certain Prince were invading their thoughts twisting their dreams into something different, until his voice calling them, awoke them with a startle, to find themselves in the middle of a strange forest of different kinds. With AJ advancing toward a Prince bucking apple trees, and cleaning some sweat, Fluttershy smitten by the Prince feeding a milk bottle to a wolf cub, Pinkie bouncing excitingly toward the Prince preparing a picnic party in a clearing surrounded by trees, and Rarity seeing him inspecting gems on a forest of pure multicolor crystals.

With goofy smiles, none of the mares realized how they weren't dreaming anymore, and instead were walking into a portrait that just appeared in their room, until they were absorbed by it, leaving only the image of the forest they disappeared into.

"Ha, five down." Startled, Twilight wakes up, feeling something wrong is happening and rushing through her window, she gasps in horror when she sees her school engulfed in giant petals, and then her cutie mark shining like crazy announcing a state of emergency.

Rushing to the throne room she had difficulty opening it but when she did, she got yet another surprise, when both Starlight and Spike were already captured and put in bulbs stuck in the wall, and a slender giant snake like dragoness, with no hind legs, smooth lime green scales on her stomach, frontal part of her neck and lower half of her soft mouth, and what looks to be scales in the form of red petals on her back, upper half of her head and bat like wings given her a rose like appearance , casually passing through some pages of one of Starlight’s books while sitting on Twilight’s chair.

"Well well, some Princess has been doing some late night homework." The dragoness chuckles, revealing her luminous slit eyes, lifting the page describing herself. "Does that mean we can skip the formalities…Princess Twilight Sparkle?"

"Desire, I assume." Twilight gets in a defensive stance, as Desire closes the book. "Oh good that would be a yes then, and before we do this dance and song, I just want to say how touched I am that you took time to research about me. I can assure you, unlike my troll of a brother Discord, I can be far more interesting to investigate."

Twilight remains quiet and just starts to charge her horn. "Please, Princess" Desire only rolls her eyes and extends her claw at her. "Do you really think that would actually make a difference?" With a simple wave, Twilight was frozen when Desire summoned four familiar pieces of jewelry. "Or perhaps you were trying to make contact with your friends, and their elements?"

She smirks malevolently as she converts the pieces into rings and puts them on. "Not to brag or anything, but I think they look better on me don't you think?" She admires the rings, before casually ripping part of her neck revealing a cluster of vines and sap in which Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie and Fluttershy are trapped inside before closing it back.

"Girls!" Twilight shot a magic beam at her, but Desire only jumped out of the way and stood up. "Sorry for startling you dear Princess, but I hope you understand..." Desire starts to pace around the room, with Twilight glaring daggers at her, not daring to lose sight of her. "…I have invested so much time and preparations in a special event of mine, to let a band of merry mares, or my idiot brother, ruin it." Twilight was shocked once more, when Desire actually managed to used the elements against her, sending her back into her chair, as vines keep her in place, and petals rose, sprouting from underneath, and start to encapsulate Twilight, as she watches in horror, how Desire was using the elements to feed the plant.

"How are you doing this?! The elements are supposed to be the force to fight anyone that wishes to disrupt the natural order of things, how can you wild them so effortlessly?"

Desire stops the process, grinning widely, not wanting to miss the opportunity, in fact judging by her expression, Twilight thought she was counting on her to ask just that.

"How do you ask? Dear Princess, I'm actually disappointed, after all the research that you have done of me, you still have only grasped the extension of my powers, desires go beyond the want to obtain a goal, an object or a living being. My reach can go from the most complex of carnal wants, to the simplest wish of scratching your nose." She pokes Twilight’s nose for emphasis, as her eyes glow brighter and the plant resumes it’s work. "Living is desire, and self awareness is the base of life itself." She lifts her hand and Twilight sees a translucent form of herself wrapped in vines, and with the same dopey smile as her friends.

"No, it’s impossible, there is no way the elements of harmony would be susceptible to you, not unless…" Twilight’s eyes widen in realization, as she recalls her last adventure dealing with Nightmare Moon.

'With the passing of time the elements grow and learn…'

"…They are self aware."

"Seems like you finally figured it out, yes Princess Twilight they self aware and growing closer to be considered alive, which mean their will can and is susceptible to my influence, specially if I used their avatars as  lightning rods" The petals finish their job and the pod is starting to fill with sap scaring Twilight as she felt her body numb and her conscious fading.

"But don't worry Princess, I'm far better than Discord ever was, as hard to believe as this might sound, I only want the best for everyone in the entire world, so don't fight it, close your eyes, relax and tell me, what is it that you desire the most?" With the last of her focus, Twilight casts one final spell, before falling unconscious. Trapping her with the rest, as Desire laughs in victory.

"And that is six, the final loose end!" She cleans her claws before looking off into the distance toward Las Pegasus.

'And with the obstacles removed, there is only the matter of getting the groom and starting the era of desire, with the appropriate party.'

Desire grins in excitement, before wilting and turning into dry petals that fall onto the ground, while from Canterlot a scarlet light glows, and then flies away into the distance, targeting the city that never sleeps.
> Meeting Of The Heirs (Edited By Brave Stomp)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


One month ago


Panting in exhaustion, the Prince had to take a knee as he tried to recover his energy, covered in sweat using his wooden sword for support, while Princess Luna wiped up some sweat from her forehead.

"Excellent nephew, you finally made me work up a sweat. Our lessons are certainly bearing fruit." She smiled with pride as he chuckled and put his sword away. "Closer and closer." The two made their way back to the castle, cleaning some sweat off, spent but happy for their session together.

"Auntie, can I ask you something?"

"What is it, nephew?"

"Well, it's a shot in the dark, but in my previous life, there was this…warrior that used swords and had a habit of naming certain attacks from them. Like a sort of…."

"…Personalized moves? Something exclusive to them?" Luna smirked, knowing where he was going with this.

"Y-Yeah, I suppose you could call it that. Does Equestria have something like that?"

"Well, it's not exclusive to sword fighting, but you could say that they exist. Just like your dusk form, as you like to call it, or the other spells you made, a personalized sword move is…or rather, was, fairly common in our kingdom."

"Do you have one auntie?"

"Oh, thousands, I'm very proud of my exploits in swordsmanship, so naturally, I spent the time and effort to name my favorite ones. Most of them are named after my stars or constellations, yet another extension of myself."

"Do you think I could see them one day?" That comment is enough to make the Princess pause and consider it for a moment.

"You know, since you've been such a good apprentice, I think you earned it, a small reward, but just one. Am I understood?"

"Really? Thank you, auntie, you are the coolest!" Blueblood couldn't hold in his excitement and hugged her, making Luna chuckle and bring her front hoof up over his back, returning the gesture. "Oh, I know I am nephew."

Ending the hug, the Princess urged him to stay back as she got some distance between the two. Summoning a hundred dummies and a long sword that shined with intense white light in its steel before turning around to address her nephew.

"Now, keep your eyes on me Blueblood, this one is one of my favorites." She smiled before schooling her expression and closing her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she took a defensive stance and turned her upper body slightly to the left, charging her attack as well as her horn.

"Divine Star Shower Slash!" She intoned before vanishing into thin air for a couple of seconds before the entire area between the Prince and her was utterly engulfed in a massive white light show. The ground trembled, and the Prince was left slack-jawed with how the sturdy dummies were reduced to fabric ribbons and splinters. He felt like an actual star shower was happening right in front of his face. By the time she was done, the entire area looked like a war zone, and Blueblood had to sit when she casually closed the distance between them, looking triumphant.

The loud whistle of the train awakened the Prince and let him know how Las Pegasus was growing near as he blinked a couple of times. The day was cold, and the sun was barely starting to rise over the horizon as he yawned and rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

'Why out of everything, did I recall that memory?' He pondered to himself for a moment before ultimately shrugging it off and deciding to change for the upcoming meeting, all while eyeing Rarity's gift with glee and anticipation. Searching for the appropriate ornament to include from his backpack, finding what he was looking for but also getting a surprise when he discovered Llamrai, Hengroen, and the silver crown Discord made for him alongside a note.

Curious, he gently put the swords and crown away and picked the note with his magic, finding it was Princess Luna who packed the extra items.

"Remember, power can be a force for good if used wisely, your sword's place is by your side, and no nephew of mine will be without the crown he earned. Wear them with pride."

Smiling at the note, Blueblood could not help but chuckle a little while eyeing the silver crown in front of him with some hesitation.

"Aw, screw it." He picked them up and changed, stopping for a moment to give himself a lookover in the full-body mirror in his private car. The Prince was pleased with his new look.

Always one to outdo herself, Rarity's creation was magnificent and elegant. The white and blue attire for him to wear combined perfectly with the silver of his crown and the black of his sword belts and scabbards. A blue cravat and removable cape made with the Ursa Major fur displayed the starry night within them, contrasting nicely with the golden epaulets and trimming running along the edges of his suit. The mantle also helped him feel like his aunts were watching over him, filling him with confidence as he inspected the whole thing with glee.


(Human Equivalent)





'Thank you so much, Rarity. I swear I will promote your shop and brand as much as possible.'

Stepping off of the train, the Prince was soon assaulted by a series of flashes going off in rapid succession as the press went bonkers over what was soon to be a whole lineup of Princes and Princesses from all over the world. All meeting for the first time in one place together.

As he practiced before, Blueblood smiled and waved at the audience while he made his way to the hotel/casino owned by Scarlet Lips and took notice of its unique appearance.

'The Rose Palace, huh, now I see why it has that name.'

The Prince chuckled internally as he handed over his baggage to one of the employees and marched forward on the red carpet toward a giant golden structure, shaped like a blooming red rose with pillars and ornaments surrounding it, as well as fountains and vines that only helped to add to the allure of a fantasy garden-themed hotel, where he couldn't be sure if the flora were indeed just decoration, gold, or actual plants.

Soon a second uproar caught his attention and made him stop and look to his right, watching how another royal just arrived. Skystar, the Princess of the hippogriffs, to be precise. She seemed to be enjoying the attention, as she had a giant grin on her face and was waving at the press with a friendly demeanor until she spotted Blueblood and waved at him. Much like her mother, Nova, the Princess was tall but not as much, her mane or what the Prince could only assume was her mane since it resembled long blue feathers, was styled to emulate a tidal wave, same with her tail. One prominent feather stuck out on her forehead, giving her a more tropical appearance which was only accented by the red flower on her left ear. The colorful shell and coral necklace she was wearing contrasted with her yellow baby fur and red and blue long dress, which hung off one shoulder, and some more coral jewelry graced her wings. In all, it projected the image of a Princess of the seas flawlessly. To the point that the Prince could almost hear the waves and feel the sands of a beautiful Hawaiian beach.

Before either of them could say or do anything else, the crowd continued to go wild. The Prince knew that if he wanted to keep things progressing smoothly, any pleasantries would have to wait until after they all were inside the hotel and away from the cheering crowds.

Once inside the place and in the V.I.P lounge, Blueblood and Skystar waited patiently while looking at the other arrivals making their entrance through the glass walls of the lounge. Blueblood allowed himself this small treat as the press kept announcing his guests of honor.

"Look! It's the Griffin Princess, Princess Hestia!" One paparazzi shouted as everyone aimed their cameras at the royal in question, clad head to toe in golden regalia and dressed elegantly and yet, neutrally. The griffin chick, half red-tailed hawk and half tigress, marched down the red carpet escorted by two of her guards whose features were obscured by their helmets. They wore silver armor and openly displayed wing-blades ready to be used at the first provocation.

While in the eyes of everyone she seemed dignified and collected, the Prince could tell right away how much she was holding in her contempt and wasn't particularly fond of all the attention that she was receiving, so much so that he could see her sigh of relief when the press turned their attention to the new arrival.

"And here comes the Abyssinian Princess Nefertiti!" Everypony saw the cat in question waving at the crowd calmly while wearing the finest Victorian ensemble of contrasting white and black, respectively.

"Behold the glory of the Abbissian style," Nefertiti proclaimed with pride.

"Heh, more dubious propaganda to what is essentially archaic and obsolete design." A voice interrupted Nefertiti, who looked back and, for an instant, glared at the arrival of the Princess of the Diamond Dogs. "Nothing but stepping stones waiting to be plowed under by the steady march of science!"

"It's Princess Sierra!" The press went wild as the wolf in question had no reservations about showing off her latest creation, all while smirking at the Abyssinian princes. She had a luscious and vibrant red fur with a white line running up the front of her neck and rising until it reached the underside of her mouth. She also had her Chesnut brown hair styled into a spiky medium-length cut. Most strikingly was the Princess's heterochromia, her eyes colored green and blue. She was garbed in an odd yet elegant ensemble that echoed the victorian style of Nefertiti, except hers was accented with metal, gears, leather pockets, and belts instead of jewelry. The skirt was shortened as well, showing her legs clad in netted leggings and boots. Finally, adorning her head, instead of a crown or circlet rested a hat with bronze googles pulled up to rest on the brim.

As they advanced, the Prince could see how they were glaring daggers at one another with forced smiles, trying to maintain the appearance of civility in front of the audience.

Heh, the Princess of the Diamond Canines, Princess Sierra. As I imagined, the rivalry between the Sif and the Abyssinian rulers seems to extend to their heirs. Good, I can use that to keep Nefi off-balance, but that claim just now, I wonder if Sierra just approved of advancement in general, or does she also indulge in invention?

Blueblood couldn't ponder for too long on the idea as the final two guests arrived, and unlike the rest, they stayed quiet as they advanced throw the carpet. Prince Triceps, the heir of the minotaurs. Dressed in grieves, and leather skirt with only a thick series of belts going winding up diagonally over his frame, capped with a shoulder pad to cover his bulky chest. Blue war paint in intricate patterns continued where the straps ended traveling up and over his face. A golden ring on one of his horns showed his royal status. Finally, a well-worn sheathed blade rested on his left hip.

Finally, next to him was Pharynx, the Prince of the changelings. Though shorter than his sibling, Thorax's older brother had a dark green shell and smaller horns. Surprisingly, he didn't seem to be wearing anything overly extravagant for the meeting besides a black vest.

And that is the last one, Prince Pharynx. According to Thorax, he is unlike the majority of his changeling subjects. With a short temper, he is quick to anger and prideful, especially when it comes to the militia and defending his people. I should be cautious around him. Blueblood took a deep breath and closed his eyes. Ok, everything is in place now. Let build some alliances.

Once everyone gathered in the same place, Blueblood didn't waste any time before receiving them with a practiced calm smile as they looked around the area.

"Greetings everyone," Blueblood inclined his head slightly in respect to his guests. " I am so glad you all could make it and hope you all had a safe journey." Rising his head, he addressed all who were now focused on him. Their reactions ranging from fascinated curiosity to ambivalent neutrality. "While it was true that there is a plan, that is for us to discuss later. I am sure you all have more than enough questions to ask me now. Why you and not the next in line or the current rulers being the most likely, but please, there will be plenty of time for those later."

"It sounds more like you are stalling for time!" Pharynx voiced his frustration. "I came here because you promised to show us your secrets, and my stupid brother told me to do it, not to vacation in some giant flower!"

"I agree with Pharynx," Hestia continued, "No offense Blueblood, this place looks nice and all, but I'm not too good with so much attention, and the last thing I want is to give more material to the paparazzi. So can we skip the pleasantries and get straight to what we came for? You can have the rest of the week doing whatever you want after I leave."

"Huh, and you call yourself royalty." Triceps interjected, raising an eyebrow at them with his arms crossed, earning a slight glare from both royals. "While I too don't exactly enjoy attending meetings turned circuses like this. All of this is, however, part of Prince Bluebloods customs and traditions, and you two are complaining like a couple of toddlers, easily scared by some light show, Pathetic."

"Care to repeat that? You overgrown hamburger!" Pharynx shouted, enraged by the Minotaur Prince's comment. Yet Triceps remained calm and smiled slightly, "Oh, are you that easy to anger too?"

Blueblood was about to intervene when Sierra placed herself between the two. "That is enough, you two, by the great Fenrir, is this what you want to do? Blow this one chance for us to stop been in our families' shadows."

That caught everyone's attention. "Pharynx, I've heard stories about how you initially rejected the idea of your transformation, and even now, you are not completely on board on how your brother is running things at the hive. More importantly, I have heard how your opinion rarely matters. Am I wrong?"

Pharynx looked away and mumbled in frustration, "Thorax has been getting very cozy, instilling pony culture and spitting on our roots."

"And Hestia, aren't you at the very least relieved that for once you are not just another piece of the puzzle with your parents and siblings looming over you?" Nefertiti stepped in as well, trying to deescalate the situation too.

Hestia looked away and sighed. "It's refreshing not being smothered for once, yeah."

"And Triceps, while I agree with you, there are better ways to phrase things. I know the bovine are a proud race of warriors, but everything does not have to be a fight."

The Prince rolled his eyes but nodded. "I will try to be more tactful with what I say. I apologize."

Prince Blueblood could only blink in surprise with how Nefertiti and Sierra expertly managed to avoid a confrontation between the races while smirking at one another in a taunting matter.

Both of them are masters in de-escalation and social manipulation. I should be careful around them. Still, this meeting might not be as tense as I imagined

Clearing his throat and stepping to the side to continue, Blueblood pointed towards the lobby and all the luxuries that it had to offer. "Anyway, back to what I was saying, and like Nefy and Sierra just said. I want to take this opportunity for all of us to relax and, at least for now, not think about the machinations of nations. And our positions as 'chest pieces' on the board of politics." That managed to earn a reaction as their expression turned somber. "That... exactly that. That mess of emotions you feel right now, I have it too, and I'm sick of it, aren't you too? Come on, guys. We have a whole week to get to know each other better after all. Why not enjoy the facilities that the owner of this hotel has offered to us?"

"I suppose, I mean mom sometimes is a bit stubborn when I suggest something, and hey it could be fun!" Skystar nodded and smiled at the prospect with the others as she took a liking to the idea. 

"You're all right, of course. The idea of being just a pawn more than sucks. If it's as you say and we can pretend like that doesn't exist for a little while, I'm game." Hestia agreed as the rest quickly followed suit after thinking on it for a short time and found that they rather enjoyed the idea, Thanks to the princesses voicing the point of the proposal.

"I'm so glad to hear that" Looking back, the group saw the silhouette of a pony morphing into a bipedal form before stepping out of the shadows.





"Welcome, my esteemed guests" The distorted voice of Scarlet caught everyone's attention as she appeared at the top of the stairs with a flirtatious wink. Her body was slim and curved, similar to Nefertiti's shape. She wore a pair of black reading glasses, a formal white shirt with the top three buttons undone, revealing a hint of her black bra to everyone. A knee-length black skirt gave her a slight air of professionalism to her overall appearance as she easily held a clipboard in her hands.

Her bipedal appearance was more than enough to catch everyone by surprise, but what caught Blueblood's attention the most was her more draconian characteristics. Specifically, the vibrant green scales he saw on the front of her neck and side of her arms or the two small horns coming out of her mane, which was also much longer than he remembered.

Scarlet? Since when did you know how to use such an advanced spell? I can barely maintain that form for three minutes, and Twilight said she could only do it for half an hour tops, and yet…she is casting and holding it like it's nothing! No, there's more than that, those dragon features, Scarlet. Were you always hiding this much magic all along? 

His line of thought was interrupted when she continued to speak.

"I'm so flattered to hear you all want to stay the week at this luxurious hotel; my name is Scarlet Lips, novel writer extraordinaire and owner of the Rose Palace..." She gave them an elegant curtsy, grabbing the edges of her dress and closing her eyes, "and your humble host for the remainder of your stay." Ending the gesture and opening her eyes once more, she looked directly at Blueblood with a calm but flirtatious smile.

The second their eyes met, the Prince found himself laying on a bed of roses with petals raining down on him as he was currently using Scarlet as a bed, in her underwear. At the same time, she caressed his face lovely and gave him a come hither as their lips were inches away from making contact. He suddenly felt the urge to move forward before snapping back to reality with a shock as he looked down, trying to make heads or tails on what he experienced.

What happened? Why did I suddenly get THAT image on my head? Swallowing the lump in his throat, He looked back up in time for Scarlet to continue, trying to calm his rising heart and praying the others hadn't noticed the heat in his cheeks.

"And please don't pay too much attention to my unusual appearance. I'm just in the midst of exploring a new point of view for my next book. Please, by all means! Enjoy all of our facilities. Naturally, you will all have the whole top floor to yourselves with private rooms, each fully equipped with all you might need. There is also a conference room for anything you may wish to discuss as a group. Not to mention our world-renowned casino at the lobby level, pools, Marble sculpted stairs, tournaments, and theaters to participate or view in. We also have several five-star restaurants and much more that our staff will be more than happy to inform, provide or explain to you."

Blueblood could see the other royal's eyes starting to light up, finding the prospect of staying in the hotel more enticing with each word spoken. It was almost as if Scarlet could read them like an open book with only a glance. It put him on edge. "Here are your room's key cards. Your luggage is being taken care of as we speak." She levitated seven hotel cards for her guests and curtsied again. "I will leave to your own devices to acclimate and relax. After exiting this room, there is an open bar at the end of the hallway to the left. Or you can press the button on the counter for service if you wish to order any drinks. Once again, I welcome you and sincerely wish that you all enjoy your stay here at the Rose Palace, where relaxation is guaranteed, and desires are granted." She shot one last glance at Blueblood, who cringed internally when he could swear he saw her winking at him at the last part of the sentence. "And don't worry about the media, our security is top of the line and ready to coordinate with your guards, so unless you don't mind or specifically request their presence, all of you would have the privacy you would want."

And with that, Scarlet left the group alone. Immediately after, Blueblood felt someone patting his back with a substantial amount of force. The pat was quickly followed by a robust laugh coming from Prince Triceps, "I got you all wrong, Prince Blood, I thought this was going to be a boring meeting of you talking your head off or coaxing us to kiss your flank, I never took you for the party kind of guy. Keep this up, and I might start demanding that we meet here more often."

"I'm glad to hear you are liking the idea Prince Triceps."

"Now! Let's see what I can get" He rubbed his palms and looked at the menu of drinks as the rest of the royals started to acclimate to the place, minus Blueblood, who kept looking to where Scarlet left, intrigued. A prickling sensation ghosted its way down his neck and back, nagging and refusing to go away.

Something is not right here. Scarlet, what are you plotting now?
> The Society Of Heirs (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Marching to her office, Prince Blueblood knocked on Scarlet Lips' door, fully intending to get some answers.

No matter how much he tried, the Prince couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. Not only with their host but with the hotel in general.

Ever since he and his compatriots went to their rooms, all of their wants were granted almost immediately. Sometimes even before they could ask or even think about it. Recreation activities, all types of food, including emotional spectrums, guided tours, and oddly specific and unusual interactive shows like clam puppet theaters or blacksmithing lessons. The Rose Palance seemed to be prepared for every request.

The hotel was swiftly gaining the approval of all the royals save for Blueblood. It kept ringing alarm bells in his head. No hotel could be this efficient and well equipped, not even a five-star one, not without some sort of supernatural aid.

The Prince didn't want to turn this into another adventure, though. A large part of him wanted to take full advantage of the situation, go with the flow and construct solid friendships with the Princes and Princesses. But deep inside, he knew this wasn't right, something was going on behind the scenes, and he wouldn't rest until he figured out exactly what it was.

"~Enter~" The cheerful sing-song voice of Scarlet Lips called from the other side, inviting him to enter as he used his magic to open the door and walked inside.

"Hello Scarlet, I'm sorry to be that client, but we need to talk, starting with what… you are wearing?" The Prince had to stop mid-sentence once he had a clear view of the mare. She stood, still in her bipedal form, admiring herself in a full-length mirror while wearing a big yellow sun hat and sunglasses. A red two-piece swimsuit and a semi-translucent light purple skirt wrapped around her hips, accentuating her legs and the lower half of her swimsuit. It also revealed how there were scales present on her legs.

Once she stopped posing for the mirror, she focused on her guest, "Ah, Bluey! Please come in, come in!" She invited him over, gesturing to a couch while she headed to her desk and pulled out a bottle of sunblock from one of its cabinets. "Do you like it? It is the most recent line in swimsuit fashion from the Abyssian kingdom. It even comes with the cute nickname 'the stare catcher.' I wonder why that is?"

She faked innocence before smirking at the irritated Prince, whose thoughts of putting on an intimidating air were scrapped thanks to the blush on his face. "Scarlet," He warned calmly.

"Oh, alright, I'm done with the teasing. I'm sorry, but with a body like this, I just had to take full advantage of the situation." She giggled softly before getting serious. "So, what can I do for you, honey?" She casually asked while applying the lotion slowly in a teasing matter in front of him.

With a sigh, Blueblood looked down, getting used to her actions yet still feeling tense about the overall situation. "Scarlet, what is going on with you?"

"Whatever do you mean, honey?"

"Oh, cut the crap already!" He looked at her with anger and rose to his hooves, yet she didn't seem to flinch. On the contrary, she only smirked in silent victory at his outburst. Almost like she was waiting for that reaction. "I might not know you personally, but I do know how you enjoy mild teasing and subtle flirting here and there but not like this. Scarlet, this isn't you. It's like another you just took over and decided to throw any restraint out the window."

"Am I, honey?" She raised an eyebrow and lifted a leg to point at him. "Or perhaps it's you that finally started to see me and my feelings?"

"What?" Caught off guard, Blueblood flinched a little when she stood up and loomed over him.

"The subtle rubs? The playful nature of my tail against your side? The winks? The prolonged hugs? Bluey, in what context could any of that be considered 'subtle'?" She pointed out while circling as her tail lightly brushed his cheek, shivering. Memories of said actions flashed before his eyes as things dawned on him and made him gulp. A part of him knew that she was always flirtatious with him, but he always chalked it up to her trying to butter him up for social status while earning her keep as his ally. He never thought that there was a natural, more profound meaning to all of her actions.

"Honestly, I should be extremely hurt right now." She showed him her back and brought her hands to her face. "All this time, you took my actions for granted and never once saw my intentions. Not until I stop and focus on my work, getting into character for my upcoming novel, and EVEN going out of my way so you and your friends could have the best days of your life. Are you so self-centered as to believe I changed my body to get your attention?!"

Blueblood looked at her neutrality. "Are you seriously trying to guilt-trip me now?"

She cut the act and winked at him. "All part of the game, honey~."

He sighed and shook his head in annoyance, making her laugh, and returned to her desk. "If it helps, you are half correct. I do seek attention, but not only yours, mister ego. Now let's see. Aha! Here it is!" Pulling out a thick script, she read aloud a piece of the composition.

"'...The waltz was going in full swing. Celebrities and powerful nobles were happily chatting among themselves without a care in the world when all of a sudden, all eyes were placed on the enigmatic dragoness. Her posture was composed despite the fears inside growing with facing such powerful individuals...'" She closed the script and looked up. "Sound familiar?"

He looked at her with some wariness but ultimately nodded. "It does, although I find it hard to believe somepony would be going to these extremes just for a story."

She laughed openly. "Oh sweetie, comments like that tell me how little you know of the world of a writer. We all have our process rituals before getting to work. Some retreat to a secluded forest. Some eat buckets of candy and some…." She pointed at herself, "…do some light roleplay and method acting. I assure you there is no ulterior motive behind my makeover."

She slowly approached him and placed her hand on his cheek. "Getting your hair askew and watching your face get all flustered, though? Well, now that is one delightful bonus."

"Ok, knock it off!" Scarlet laughed as Blueblood stepped back.

"So was there anything else you wished to discuss, or did you only want to confess how attractive I look now?" She fluttered her eyelashes, making the prince start as he fought off some enticing mental images on his head.

"No…I mean, yes!" He shook his head before continuing, "Scarlet, what exactly are you plotting here? Your appearance is one thing, but how is it that your hotel seems to be equipped and ready for virtually anything I and the other royals would ever want with a staff ready to serve at a frighteningly quick pace? It's kind of disturbing how all of them seem to know us so well."

"Nothing can get past you, right Bluey? Shame, and I was hoping I could tease you a bit more by sending you some flirtatious maids who wanted to spend more time than required." She confessed calmly, causing Blueblood to glare and growl at her in response.

"Kidding, but please, sweetie, don't look at me with such unfriendly eyes. I understand your concerns, and you are right. We have been paying extra attention to pampering all of you and have been doing a little research here and there with the guest list, something anyone with enough time and resources could achieve. Do you know why?" She took a deck of presentation cards from her desk. "Singers, actors, and celebrities might be the golden ticket for great publicity, but nothing brings in more clientele than seven recommendations from royalty."

"So that is it? You are smothering us with excellent service in the hope of obtaining the seal of approval from the Princes and Princesses, so your hotel prospers?"

"Darling, I'm surprised! I might not act like a typical noble or businessmare but make no mistake. Even if I'm carefree at the end of the day, I'm STILL a noble, and buttering up influential individuals is just something that comes with the territory."

He studied her features closely, trying to find anything out of the ordinary, but so far, he couldn't find anything. So far, she seemed to be telling the truth, yet a part of him was also sure that she wasn't telling him the whole story, "I suppose."

Am I overthinking this situation? I mean, she hasn't done anything sinister. Sure there is the promotion of her hotel, but there is nothing wrong with that, and her appearance seems to check out. I don't know how writers do their process, so that could be hers. So why do I still feel like there is something off about her?

"Would you like to have the chance of being bipedal as well, darling?"

The sudden question brought his line of thought to a screeching halt as he looked at her in surprise. "Please, darling, it is written all over your face. The real reason you came to see me is that you are intrigued, right? Wondering what it would feel like to be on two legs. After all, this isn't exactly an easy spell to master." she gave him a once over. "To be honest, I'm intrigued too, wondering how you would look with those clothes on two legs."

"Thanks, but I think I will…." She stopped him by lifting her hand.

"Just think about it, ok, sweetie? And here, to show you that there are no hard feelings, you can read the rest of my first draft." She presents the script with her magic

"Are you sure?"

"Completely, the general ideas and copyright documentation are already in place, and that is merely a raw version. I would be honored if you could give me some pointers for the final edit."

He eyed her suspiciously but ultimately decided to drop the subject and nodded. Keeping an eye on her in case anything else happened as he left with her waving, missing the malevolent smirk on her face once the door closed.

Oh, Bluey, it is so adorable that you think our little courting dance ever stopped. She admired her body one last time in the mirror, bringing her hand to her chest. You will not be able to ignore me anymore, Blueblood, the game is finally on, and this time no guard, princess, or annoying pink mare is going to get in my way! Before this weekend is out, you would be unable to think of anything else but me.

She turned her attention to a painting depicting a tree and, using her magic moved the leaves at the top to reveal a tied and gagged Cadence and Discord struggling to get out as she smirked and pat the painting "Get comfy faker, pretty soon you and I will be cousins-in-law." She lingered on each word, making Cadence's eyes go wide and struggle harder, making Scarlet laugh and cover them once more.

The next day, Blueblood finally put his plan into action to address why everyone came. Wanting time to prepare himself, Blueblood requested that the meeting be held in the afternoon. Surprisingly, this one final concession went smoothly as his companions didn't find any issue with sleeping in and enjoying the hotel facilities once more before attending a boring meeting.

The Prince kept his guard up all the time, though he did make some easy requests to maintain appearances. He never let himself be swayed by the allure of the hotel, even when, as Scarlet promised, the female staff started to get a touch too friendly towards him. So far from what he could, all of the Scarlet claims seemed to be on point, noticing how indeed, she only aimed to butter them up subtly while also looking out for everyone's pleasant stay in the Palace. Slightly dubious, to be sure, but nothing illegal or to be worried about.

His line of thought promptly shifted once the other royals finally arrived for the meeting, forcing him to take a deep breath and steel his nerves for what was about to come.

"Greetings everyone, please take a seat. There is plenty to discuss."

"Ugh, finally," Triceps complained, sitting in his chair with a roll of his eyes. "Don't get me wrong, Blueblood, this hotel rocks and all, but you have been keeping us in suspense long enough. Let's get this over with already so we can enjoy the rest of our vacations in peace."

The rest soon voice their agreement with Triceps.

"Fair enough, in that case, I will cut right to the main topic. We are all here because all of your kingdoms saw my work in Manehattan and now are interested in learning my secrets and doing the same thing for your own lands. All of you saw a potential gold mine and now are going after each other's throats while kissing my ass to see who gets the prize."

"Hey!" Pharynx stood up angrily at the claim, while others remained neutral, and a few even chuckled in amusement at Blueblood's bluntness.

"Well, you certainly stopped beating around the bushes, alright. Thanks for just coming clean and saying it." Hestia finally broke her bored expression while leaning against her talons and smiling at him. "Good, I was sick and tired of keeping this charade going. So let's cut the crap and talk frankly, pony. What is it going to cost us for you to 'help'?" She questioned with a raised eyebrow and pointed at him with a talon as Blueblood only laughed briefly at her comment and sighed.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to offend, but you are right on one thing. I'm DONE with all the courtesy and pretending we are in some bizarre play." He turned to Nefertiti. "You were right, Nefy, none of us are exactly fans of the appearance of the 'perfect prince or princess' act, or if we are, it should probably vanish once we discovered how little freedom it left us with."

"Told you" She smiled and nodded before smirking at Sierra, "It's so nice seeing you take my advice, my good friend."

The room got tense for a moment until the wolf princess suddenly chuckled a little "Ha, you think you have it rough, Blueblood? Tried going to a gala with slippers and a corset for 8 hours straight and THEN asked me about pain."

"Ja, child's play, you try moving around naturally while stretching your body to ten times its regular size AND look threatening, and then you can tell me what it is like to endure pain," Pharynx smirked at the two princesses. Blueblood took a moment to relax and admire how everyone seemed to be talking more honestly now.

"Anyway, to answer your question, there is nothing to pay. I already agreed to help. The idea of 'discussing terms of cooperation' was only an act, so the press has something to chew on. No, the real objective of this meeting was to get to know all of you and explain how I intend to use this opportunity to discuss a common problem we all share. Although considering things, maybe 'problem' is not exactly the right word to describe it. Perhaps something more accurate would be a common position our families and we are forced to be in. As pawns and bartering chips in the game of power."

The room is silent for a moment as everyone silently agrees and looks down with a mix of frustration, anger, and resignation at that.

"That is why I demanded to teach my tricks with you specifically. I intend to destroy that position and ensure that none of us ever become pawns again." That sudden claim of Blueblood's got all of their attention as he smiled. "The real purpose of this meeting was so I would be able to explain the plan on how we could achieve that."

"Are you kidding me!? Do I look like my brother to you? There is a reason I'm so opposed to how Thorax did things in the hive, and now you expect me just to nod and smile to more of your friendship ideas just because you pamper us?!" Phranyx shouted angrily at Blueblood's proposal while Blueblood himself remained calm and let the changeling prince vent.

"You are wrong, prince Phranyx. This isn't in any way a friendship proposal," Blueblood calmly replied, putting his frontal hooves together.

"Save, I don't want to hear…it. What?"

"Well…maybe that can happen down the line, but as for my plan? What I want to offer all of you here?" He taps the table a couple of times. "You can argue this is more of an equally beneficial association of sorts. Don't get me wrong, I would love to become friends with all of you, but unlike my cousin, whose mantra in life is exclusively friendship for every problem and to circle back to impart it. I know when to separate friends from colleagues."

The room went silent as everyone sat blinking for nearly a minute, trying to understand what he was saying. "But we can be both too…right?" Skystar shyly asked as Blueblood nodded with a calm smile.

"As long as that's ok with you, of course, we can become friends, Skystar."

"Yay!"

"Ok, now you got me intrigued," Nefertiti continued. "Tell us what exactly do you propose…?"

"…Just know something Prince Blueblood" Sierra interrupted Nefi getting closer to the pony prince. "The Sif empire is well renowned for our loyalty. An alliance with me is a guarantee and binding lifelong friendship." She finished, fluttering her eyelashes, making Blueblood blush lightly while maintaining his practiced smile.

"And I would treasure said loyalty if granted Princess Sierra."

The wolf glanced at Nefi, who glared daggers at her while she smirked back.

Oh, goodie, I might have just provoked a rivalry between these two. Better keep this moving before they start competing in who gets my attention.

"Before we start, I should explain why I'm doing this, you see, ever since Nefi taught me about the power game and shared how she desires to improve her kingdom, I have been thinking," He stood up and started to circle the table "What exactly is our role in the great scheme of 'the royal families'? We have the active rulers whose job, in simple terms, is to look after the well-being of their respective kingdoms. Then there is the heir, who is groomed and raised to be the successor. Expected to fill the same job, and then there's us, the 'others' the 'bargaining chips,' the 'siblings' to name a few. Like the heirs, we are raised to be the ideal Prince or Princesses, yet are only expected to take the throne only as the next in line if something were to happen to the one meant to be there."

After completing the circle, he reached his seat and grabbed the chair. "Of course, that is not set in stone. Some of us already had a plan laid out for you by your family, some are the heirs to inherit the crown, some share the same position than I have, but there is a common factor we all have in'' He put his forehooves on the table "Those in charge always ignore us."

Everyone nodded, wholly invested in what he had to say as he levitated some scrolls and laid them on the table. "Ladies and gentlemen, I propose that we join forces and create a brand new role. If the rulers and heirs are in charge of maintaining the prosperity of a kingdom, then we, in turn, will ensure its continuous improvement."

"You want us to modernize our kingdoms?" Pharynx asked, still wary of Blueblood and what he was plotting. "How?"

"Yeah, I'm with Pharynx here, Blueblood," Hestia continued. "This sounds good and all, but I can't see that happening if our parents and siblings seem to prefer to ignore us all the time."

"Well, modernizing is not what I had in mind per-say," He took one of the scrolls. He unrolled it, showing them a scheme of common problems in a land: Crime, corruption, poverty, rebellion, among other things were listed prominently. "This circles back to what I did in Manehattan at first, but bear with me. I promised to be as brief as possible" He apologized before beginning his explanation.

"Go on?" Triceps raised an eyebrow at him.

"My time in Manehattan made me see the darker side of my lands, as well as understand how no matter how prestigious and rich a kingdom might be, things like crime and corruption will always be there. It is a necessary evil and what's more, is the problems our parents or relatives have to face each time they put on the crown. Maybe only one of these problems on this list, all of them, maybe even something I didn't put down, but the bottom line is that this is their job, and it never ends, a never-ending circle of crime and response."

He hammers his point across, stomping the desk with each word, "But what if things don't have to be this way? What if I told you there is a way to break the cycle for good? Not destroying things like crime completely but rather morphing it into something more controllable and less threatening to our lands for example. Starting with exploiting my situation to give us free rein and put our ideas into practice, thinking outside the box, bending the rules slightly for a greater tomorrow, and without the pressure of taking the crown over one day, we can strip the power of those that seek to damage people, maybe more than that. I'm confident we can achieve something monumental and lasting."

He shows them an emblem with a crown, shield, and two swords on top of silhouettes showing a hoof, wing, claw, talon, fin, and tail, demonstrating all different kinds of races. "A kingdom that refuses to modernize itself with the passing of time, no matter how strong or prosperous it is, will eventually fall. But the one that embraces change always looks at how to improve and evolve as the year's pass. That, my friends, is a kingdom that will last forever."

He put his hoof on the emblem. "That is what I'm aiming for, forming an association where we become that force of improvement and evolution. That is what I mean when I say how our families deal with prosperity while we deal with the improvement of life."

The room remained silent as everyone started to think about what Blueblood was proposing, intrigued. Finally, Hestia broke the silence, "So if I understand this correctly, you want to turn this sad club of bargaining chips into some sort of organization where we improve our kingdoms and force our families to hear us out."

"Among other things, but at its core? Yes. More or less, that and obliterate the thought of us as bargaining chips."

"Ok, sure, that sounds promising. Question, assuming I agree to join this book club, what would we call it?" Hestia replied sarcastically but with a tone that indicated her intrigue as she stared at Blueblood

"I was hoping we would discuss it together. At the moment, I call it the Society of Heirs, but I'm open to suggestions."

"Forget about naming it! This is insane!" Triceps banged the table in anger. "This is not a simple matter to discuss Blueblood. Do you realize what you are proposing? This society of yours suggests we casually reveal our secrets to everyone as if it was a schoolhouse project. How do we know this is not a trap? What insurance do we have? How do we know you will not betray us the second after we spill our guts? That any of us will not betray any one or all of us in this group?" He pointed an accusing finger at Blueblood as he maintained his icy calm.

"Because we will focus exclusively on what the public already knows." He responded right away, expecting that question. "Any dirt or crisis your nation may be facing? It isn't common knowledge but your siblings and parents pretty much already gave me their blessing to know everything about it. If anything, I'm offering you a way to be involved in the matter."

Blueblood waited for Triceps to sit back down once more. "Furthermore, this society is meant to look for solutions to the problems the general public already knows about as well as ideas you may have and want to share, plus projects to explore if the subject is broached. In no way or form, this group is looking for weaknesses or national secrets of any form or shape."

The tension in the room could be cut with a knife at this point as everyone stayed quiet thinking about the idea, and we're not entirely sure if they should take the offer or not. Sighing, Blueblood closed his eyes and nodded once.

"I understand your reservations completely. This is a weighty subject to discuss and think about. You have no obligation to accept either. The core of my intention is that we all seek a way to stop being treated like pawns and for our voices to be heard. If this idea ultimately doesn't work, we can discuss alternative options. I just ask them to carefully thought out it, and then you can give me your answer at the end of this week. If you are on board or not, or if you need time. I want to force as little pressure with this as possible."

None of them said anything else and simply stood up, having reached an understanding. Blueblood nodded once as he watched them leave and then sighed again as he leaned on the table once more.

"For what it's worth," Startled by the sudden appearance of Phranyx next to him with a neutral face, Blueblood looked up. "I'm not saying no, and I would point out that none of us did. Just give us time to think about it."

"Of course, take as much time as needed." Blueblood smiled at his reply.

"And don't send your marefriend after us either. As weird as it is, the last thing I need is to be caught in the middle of a lovers quarrel."

"Yeah, I also talked about that with her. She is… wait for what?" He turned to face the changeling prince in surprise. "Ah, Scarlet is not my…why would you even…? Oh! Yeah, sorry about that. Scarlet likes to tease a lot, and recently I discovered she is not putting on much of an act with her actions, but no, she is not my marefriend. I think I'm not ready for that kind of relationship just yet."

For his part, Phranyx looked at him in shock at his answer. "She isn't?"

"Nope, we are just friends."

Calming down somewhat, Phranyx nodded once. "In that case, I would be careful around her if I were you." Blueblood watched him, confused as he walked away. "I know what I saw the day she received us. There was a lot of love emanating from her body the second she saw you, love and something else I can't put a hoof on. You better stay alert." And with that, Phranyx left the Prince with his thoughts as he started to ponder his fellow royals' words.

Blueblood stared into the distance the next day as the sun rose, breathing deeply as he enjoyed the view. His suspicions were still there, but even if it was only for a minute, he wanted to relax and calm down before starting his day. He needed to step lightly with whatever else Scarlet had in store for him and the rest of his companions.

"Quite the view, isn't it?" A female voice behind him startled the Prince as he turned around to see the mare who had just walked into his room.

"Wait? What are you doing here?"
> Six Conditions (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Recovering from his initial shock, Blueblood stared in confusion at none other than Pinkie Pie, wearing a Hawaiian shirt and sunglasses.

"I came to help you with your problem and take you to the most awesometastic party ever, silly billy!"

"A what now? Why would you…?"

"Silly Bluey," Pinkie closed his jaw. "If I had told you, then it wouldn't be a surprise party, right?" She booped his nose with her hoof before grabbing his own and started to pull him out of his room. "Now, let's go! Everyone is waiting, and we have a whole day ahead of us!" She proclaimed enthusiastically while using her earth pony strength, to drag the poor Prince through the hall and into the elevator.

"Woah, Pinkie, stop, STOP!" He used his magic to erect an astral barrier in front of them, forcing her to stop so he could have a moment. "What the heck is going on? Why are you here? When did you come here?"

She lifted a hoof up and was about to answer, but he interrupted him

"And saying it's a surprise party is not going to cut it Pinkie. I need more details than just that."

"Ok," she nodded once, and Blueblood dispersed the wall waiting for her explanation. "So in that order: me and Scarly organized a special party for you and the other royals. Scarly invited us over, and last night!"

"Go on?" He raised an eyebrow, still confused about what was happening.

"Well, since this meeting was super duper important to you. Scarly wanted to help you relax and make sure you wouldn't get nervous, so she came to Ponyville a while back and asked us if we would like to come here for moral support."

"Us?"

Rather than answer, Pinkie only grabbed his hoof again and dragged him farther through the hallways. "As I said, this is a special type of party for all of you, and you don't want to be late!"

Approaching their destination, Blueblood heard electronic music playing and saw light shows coming from the pool area. Once they arrived, they were met by a pool party going on full swing with inflatables, donuts, noodles, and foam included for all the guests to enjoy and play around in the vast pool. Everyone was dancing around, in the pool, or chatting with drinks near the bar, which sat in the middle of the pool. In among the crowd, Blueblood managed to spot none other than Skystar, who was currently dancing in the middle of the pool on her seapony form.

"Oh, there she is! Go on, Bluey, go dance with her" She gestured at the princess before getting behind Blueblood and started to push him into the pool.

"What?" He looked back, still overwhelmed by what was happening and the pace at which it was occurring.

"Trust me. This is the best time. Remember what I told you?" She pointed at her face and smiled. "Keep her happy make some small talk, and we will take care of the rest."

Before he could protest any further, the Prince fell into the pool, alerting the seapony to his presence as he opened his eyes and noticed how this gathering was much larger than he thought as he could see other seaponies swimming around and dancing below the surface before emerging again and gasping for air. The party pony was nowhere to be seen.

"Blueblood!" Skystar suddenly swam towards him and brought him into a hug. "You made it! I'm so glad you decided to join me! There is lots and lots I wanted to talk about with you."

"There is?" Ending the hug, the Prince looked at the seapony with a raised eyebrow, and she nodded eagerly

"Since you told us about your idea, I have been thinking, and well, I would love for us to form that society!" Her expression turned somber as she looked down at her reflection. "Ever since the Storm King's invasion, my mom…well, all of us, to be honest, have been a bit on edge when it comes to seeking help at the risk of exposing ourselves to another attack. It's embarrassing to admit, but we are vulnerable, Blue, in many more ways than we care to admit."

"I understand, spending so many years in hiding and fearing that your oppressor may return…others would fall to paranoia for far less."

"And I want to end it." She slapped the water, splashing it around them in frustration. "I'm not stupid, and I'm well aware of the risks here. But I don't want to live in fear like my mom. I want to trust you. Just like I trusted Twilight and her friends." She grabbed his hoof, "So even if it is just the two of us. Would you help me out? Will you tell me how we could return Mount Aris to its former glory?"

"Oh, Skystar, I wish it was that simple." He lowered his head to the surface of the water and grabbed her fin with his other hoof. "But as I said, this society is meant for us to help each other with our own projects. Of course, I would be more than happy to give you my suggestions and ideas. I would like nothing more than to propose plans to rebuild a structure here and there, but that is all I can offer at the end of the day. Suggestions. I don't want to colonize your people; I want to help you improve life there."

"I understand" She nodded with just a hint of disappointment until Blueblood lifted her chin. "Hey, cheer up, you said it yourself. You are not stupid; I bet there are lots and lots of great ideas in that cute head of yours. And I would love to hear each and every single one of them."

Her mood brightened once she heard those words and smiled. "So no more long faces, ok, Skystar? It may not be much, and it might take time, but I will definitely help you out with anything I can. And when we are done, maybe you could give me a personal tour around your kingdom. What do you say? doesn't that sound like fun?"

She nodded eagerly once more before surprising the Prince with a kiss on his cheek as she giggled and blushed. "Thank you, Bluey! I look forward to working with you, and will keep my fins crossed so that the other royals want to join in! I would love it if all of us became the greatest of great friends!" And with that, and without giving him time to process what happened, Skystar swam away to return to the party—quickly getting lost in the crowd as Pinkie slowly paddled closer to Blueblood with a smirk while lying on top of a floater.

"Soooo? How did it go?"

"I…I'm not even sure what just happened. She just…came and went out of the blue. After she told me that she was on board with the idea I suggested."

"That's the power of a good plan party" She bounced in place in excitement, earning his attention.

"What?"

"It's impressive, right partner?" A familiar southern drawl put Blueblood on alert, and turning around, he saw AJ without her trademark stetson swimming towards them, serving some cider on a silver platter to the guests. "Everyone is wary of talking about anything if they are stressed, Bluey, but if they are having fun and you show that they can trust you and are honest about wanting to help them out, communication can be way easier."

"AJ, you too?"

"Seems like Pinkie already fill you in. Don't worry, sugarcube. We got ya covered."

"But I can't ask you for this, what about your jobs? Sugacube Corner? Your Farm? Your families? AJ, what even happened to your hat?"

"Well, I don't exactly want it to get wet, right?" AJ joked, ignoring his concerns, and only responded to the last question.

"Are you sure this is…?"

"Oh! Bluey quick, I see another one, let's go!" Pinkie grabbed his hoof again and dragged him out of the pool with AJ waving goodbye as they headed to another part of the hotel.

First Pinkie and now AJ? Did Scarlet bring in all the mane six? And the way they are acting, something doesn't feel right here.

Blueblood continued pondering until they arrived at a balcony overlooking the pool where a grumpy Hestia was staring into the horizon, eating a bunch of sunflower seeds.

Like before, Pinkie gave him a light push and pointed at her before pointing at her face and smiling, nodded before bouncing away before he could ask for something else.

"I told you I'm fine, just leave me alone, and," Hestia thought Blueblood was another employee before she turned and found that was not the case. "Oh, it's you," She returned her gaze to the horizon. "What do you want now? I'm still thinking about my answer."

"That's alright, I've been having questions of my own recently." the Prince slowly made his way to the rail, eyeing the party warily.

"Oh really? Getting cold hooves now, are we?" Surprised, Blueblood looked back to the Princess only to see her smirk.

"What? No, it just I…." He stopped not wanting to agitate or anger his guest and sighs, trying to come up with a better answer "…I think our 'gracious' host decided to forget subtlety and is now going overboard with pampering us."

"Wait, so this isn't your doing?" Hestia blinked a couple of times as he shook his head. "This is all the owners doing. All in the name of seeking an excellent review for her hotel. I just found out ten minutes ago, right before being tossed into the pool."

"Wow, harsh," Hestia chuckled a bit. "Well, that is one way to wake up, I suppose."

"Yeah, that is true."

"Wanna grab some grub? Something tells me you haven't had anything for breakfast yet." She pointed to the dining area not too far from away them, and as in response, both of their stomachs grumbled, making them chuckle too.

"Seems like neither of us has had anything to eat yet. Sure, let's grab something." They got off the rail and marched away to grab something to eat. Neither aware of a glowing hand returning to normal as Scarlet sunbathed and AJ handed her another glass with apple juice on it.

After grabbing themselves a couple of plates and finding and inviting Prince Triceps over, the three royals started to talk.

"So what is your angle here, Blueblood? Why are you so interested in not being a pawn? From what I heard, you got an out when those nimrods kicked you out of Canterlot. Why return to all of this mess?" Hestia questioned, pointing at him with a fork.

"It's a long story, but the short version probably is that I don't want to lose my family, and as for the idea. Lots of things happened in my life, and well, let's say I understand how infuriating it is for anyone not to have a voice or hand in their life. Everyone deserves their independence and for their voice to be heard."

Hestia remained silent before looking at Triceps. "And what about you? When Blue suggested the idea, you were the first to point out the risks. Still think this is a risk not worth taking?"

"I'm still wary of the idea, but I have to admit it has vast untapped potential. The idea of being more than just a pawn is enough for me to consider it. but I still have my reservations."

"As I said, I don't intend to look for any secrets or take advantage of any information shared in confidence. I know I'm asking for a lot but aren't you tired of being ignored? That feeling like your title is only for show? Wouldn't you like to have the opportunity to put your ideas into action?"

"You are asking the wrong minotaur if that is what you are looking for, Blueblood."

He sighed and started shifting his food around. "If you were expecting a sad story about a Prince full of ideas but with nobody to listen to them, then you better look someplace else. I never had any complaints about not being the next in line. Nobody in my home expects anything from me other than to know how to fight." He stopped and sighed with closed eyes. "And up until now, I have had no problems with that. You had to remind me how I could be exchanged for something of value to the kingdom at any time. For the great horn! I don't even know what is wrong with my kingdom that could I possibly fix or improve!"

"And you really wouldn't like to improve your subjects' lives? " Blueblood asked neutrality.

"I don't know, maybe? I mean, what could I do? Fix crime? Invent a different type of obstacle course? Maybe a brain challenge labyrinth? Oh, that last one seems promising!" Triceps shook his head. "Listen, Blueblood, I appreciate the offer, but what exactly could I offer them?"

"You don't need to offer anything, Triceps." He shook his head. "And I don't intend to take over. I only wish to help you see your nation prosper. Trust me, nobody knows your home better than you, problems are always there, and when you spot them, we can brainstorm ideas on how to fix it."

The Minotaur thought hard before groaning in frustration. "Fine! I accept your point that it could work, but know you're talking with a muscle head here."

"Dude, I used to be a world-class jerk. A snobbish and self-absorbed brat who's only concern was in what would I spend the national treasure on next, and look at me now! You are a well-intentioned Prince who enjoys spending time in the gym compared to past me. Trust me. You have a way easier time than me, even now." They shared a laugh.

"Yeah, point taken."

"Seems like you are set on fixing the kingdoms," Hestia mentioned while staring at her food and then sighed.

"Something on your mind Hestia?" Blueblood asked with a measure of concern for his fellow royal.

"You could say that. Tell me, Blueblood, have you ever heard of a small kingdom known as Griffonstone?"

"Yeah, Starlight once told me about it. A prosperous nation full of pride and legends a long time ago."

"It's now been reduced to slum because of pride, greed, and paranoia." She finished Blueblood's sentence stabbing her food with more force than necessary. "Did you know It was started by colonists wanting a fresh start from Griftania after being inspired by the birth of Equestria?"

"I…I don't think so, no, but that would explain their involvement with various national sports here in Equestria despite being a separate nation."

"It's part of the alliance they have with Equestria, in exchange for a parcel of Equestrian land and supplies in case of emergency, among other aspects." she nodded a couple of times. "All was well and good until that stupid cyclops stole a damn garden ornament!"

"Hestia…you want me to help you return Griffinstone to its former glory for you? Because if that's true, then I'm sorry, but I can't…."

"…Save it" She held up a talon. "That is my dad's wish. My sisters want them to restore their territory before reclaiming it through diplomacy, and my brother's wish for them to merge with Equestria already so they can stop pretending to be a 'griffon nation' separate from the kingdom and admit they couldn't make it on their own."

"But they are a griffon nation." Triceps points out.

"Try telling that to them" Hestia rolled her eyes in annoyance.

"Well, what would you want then, Hestia?" Blueblood wondered, now intrigued, as she sighed in exhaustion.

"Honestly? I couldn't give a rat ass with whatever the hell they decided to do. To come back to us, merge with Equestria, or be their nation? I don't care. I only wish for them to swallow their damn pride and do something about their home!"

She stopped stabbing her food and pointed at them. "If you tell anyone I say this, I swear I will gouge your eyes out with a rusty spoon, but…I can't stand the idea of honest griffons trying to live in such precarious conditions, with nests made from fragile twigs, mud-filled streets, and barely getting by with Equestrian supplies. Meanwhile, everyone is so damn concerned with hoarding coins that they demand them for just sitting in a chair. It's just ridiculous! that's no way to live, and worse, it's heartbreaking."

"Wow, Hestia, never imagined that you would care so much for them, even when they no longer are part of your nation." Triceps nodded, impressed.

"I'm not made of stone, ok?! And I mean it, not a word. That is my condition. Blueblood, If you want to, say this is my test for you. You have been going on and on about helping other nations clean up their acts. Well, if that is true, then prove it. Help me give Griffonstone a decent way of life once more, and I'm all in."

"Hestia, I'm not sure we should even be discussing this, it's one thing helping your nation, but we are talking about helping a kingdom that doesn't even have a defined hierarchy of power. I'm not even sure if there is even a Griffin in control or if they still go by the monarch system of rule."

"Good, then we can start there." She nodded and stood up. "And you said it yourself, the idea of this group is to help nations, right? We tried to give that nation their space and time, and they didn't do squat! So it is time for tough love. I like it just as much as you do, but every parent has a breaking point, and this is mine."

"But…"

"We don't lose anything by asking and exploring, right? And I'm not telling you to fix it yourself. We would come up with something together. Think of it as a test run to see if your idea can truly hold water and go the distance."

"Where are you going?"

"Triceps you are in?" She asks back, ignoring his question

"It will be a good test for all of us, yes."

"Then I will go to tell Skystar the plan. If the others are in too, then all is well. If not, then the four of us will have a lot to discuss." And with that, she flew away, heading straight to the pool.

"You have to admit she does have a point" Triceps nodded once. "It will be far easier if we have proof that we can work well together. Besides, don't you feel sorry for all of those Griffins?"

Blueblood sighed, conceding defeat. "Of course I do, but it is not that easy Triceps. Griffonstone is in a very delicate situation. With how prideful they are, one wrong move and our actions will be seen as extremely offensive, and we will be accused of colonization. We could ignite a gruesome conflict."

"But on the other hand, the reward could be well worth the risk, right?" the Minotaur patted Blueblood's back as a fetching masseur holstaur approached the two, catching Triceps attention immediately as he stood. "Prince Triceps, it's time for your massage." The holstaur calmly informed with a bow.

"Coming!" he eagerly informed the masseuse before looking at Blueblood. "I say go for it, Blueblood. If you managed it in Manehattan, helping those griffons should be far easier, now if you excuse me, I have a date with a sexy holstaur!" He calls almost in a trance as he follows the masseur, who seemed to have no problem with the Prince's staring and wondering eyes.

Oh, for Pete's sake, Scarlet was serious about the flirty employees. He facehoofed and finished the rest of his breakfast before deciding to explore the rest of the hotel, trying to find the remaining royals.

Thankfully he didn't have to look for too long and soon was helping Princess Sierra while she was working on an enchanted chariot with a working motor that needed maintenance.

"You can drop the act, you know?" Sierra commented without looking as she tightened a bolt on the vehicle.

"What act?" Once she was done, he passed her a piece of cloth for her to wipe up the sweat from her forehead

"Oh, please, you have been acting like this isn't bizarre. A princess working as a mechanic? I know it's not what anyone expected, but I like it. You are honestly not weirded out by it?"

"Not really" He shook his head as Sierra put the tools away and handed off the toolbox to the perplexed mechanic of the hotel

"You don't?"

"Trust me, just because we have a mark saying what we are good at doesn't mean we are exclusive."

"Huh" Without saying anything else and with Blueblood close by, Sierra cleaned her hands.

"But if I may ask, what exactly is it that you like about repairing vehicles?"

"Not just that, it building things in general, vehicles, airships, house appliances, and especially inventions, THAT right there that is my biggest passion." She elaborated while looking around, "And I know what you are going to say. It's weird. It's unusual, and it's not something befitting a princess of the Sif empire with how proud we are about our jewelry and how we use it in almost everything."

She made air quotes while she talked about her passions, "Yeah right. Like hanging a jewel on a necklace or mounting it in the ceiling as decoration hasn't been done thousands of times before. Wow, such visionaries are we."

She takes out a scroll with some blueprints on it. "Don't get me wrong, I love, and I'm prideful of our gem operations and mining and all that stuff, but I believe we can do far more than just using them for weapons or light sources, like this one, for instance."

"What is it?" Blueblood questioned as he looked at a drawing of an odd rectangle design with a cylinder on the base where diamonds are cut and placed inside.

"It is a crystal scroll Blueblood, a magical crystal scroll. Picture this, a way to communicate instantly with anyone in the world without the need of a caldron in the palm…ah frog of your hoof"

Is she proposing the creation of the very first cellphone?

"Sierra, this is…revolutionary, the possibilities alone. You could bring communication to a brand new era!"

"I know!" She put the scroll away in excitement, and he could see her tail wag. "For as long as I can remember, inventing stuff has been my passion, my hobby, my…well, I suppose my equivalent of painting. I love inventing stuff all the time, and I have been trying to bring ideas like this to life, but each time I propose something, my parents shut me down. Always with the same speech, 'you are a princess, not an inventor, you don't dirty your paws. You delegate, so others do.' and if I try to take their advice, I'm just a ball of nerves fearing that some novice will screw up my vision."

"Oh Sierra, I'm so sorry."

"That is why the second you proposed this society. I was already on board." She grabbed his hoof and knelt so they could be eye to eye. "Blueblood, will you let me shine at last? Will this society could become my haven, and would you be willing to test my inventions for me?"

Blueblood shook his head, catching Sierra by surprise. "Not for you" He then tightened the hold, "WITH you, and while I can't speak for the rest, I would love to help you out. I'm already intrigued by these crystal scrolls, Sierra. We could use them to communicate among us as well as we can and show the world that brilliant mind of yours. It would be my honor if you let me help you bring these visions of yours into reality."

Before he could react, Sierra surprised him with a very long lick on his face before being pulled into a bear hug. "Thank you so much, Blueblood. I swear you just earned the most loyal of friends right now, maybe even more." She then leaned closer to his ear. "I have always wondered what would be like to be part of an equine pack."

With a gulp and a blushing face, the Prince was in the process of formulating a reply when someone cleared her throat to catch both of their attentions.

"Are we interrupting something here?" Nefi questioned with crossed arms and glaring daggers at Sierra, who broke the hug and looked at the Abyssinian with a smirk. Next to the cat was none other than Rarity, with a measuring tape and a notebook ready to take notes. "Oh, Sierra, darling, there you are. I have been looking all over for you."

"Rarity? You too? But if you were coming, why did you rush…?" Once more, he is interrupted when Sierra approached the two with her ear flattened in sadness

"Sorry for ghosting you, Ms. Rarity," The wolf said to the two. "But when I saw you working on Nefertiti ensemble. I thought that I would give you two a moment and went to get a breath of fresh air, and it seems like I lost track of time."

"Very convenient, I must say," Nefertiti commented, eyeing Blueblood with a quirked eyebrow before approaching him. "Ah, Blueblood, so glad to find you. I, too, have been looking for you everywhere." Her demeanor instantly changed to friendly, catching Sierra by surprise as she rushed to his side.

"Now? And why pray tell, is that?" Sierra asked.

"Well, I haven't had the chance to speak about how flattered I am by his proposal. After all, it was my teachings that inspired this society in the first place." While forcing a polite smile, Blueblood could feel the charged atmosphere between the two as they barely contained their dislike for one another. "And you still have a pending appointment with Ms. Rarity, so you better get going, pup. Although I dread to imagine the work she will have, constructing something that covers your appearance."

"Blueblood and I aren't done talking about important business, so you can have my time and continue playing dress-up kitty-cat. Wouldn't like him to pick up your stench of fish and dead rats." Both start to growl, getting less and less subtle with their anger with each passing second.

Oh, boy, I better cut in before this gets out of hand. Looking to Rarity, Blueblood remembered his lessons and got an idea. Clearing his throat, he calmly stepped in between the two Princesses.

"Ladies, ladies, please, there is no reason for this hostility." He addressed them both with a serene smile. "I understand how the Abyssiniaj and Sif nations have a tense relationship between them, but that doesn't mean we have to act like our parents."

They both raise an eyebrow and cross their arms. "Didn't you tell me once how you are more than a pretty face and the standard of a Princess, Nefi? It's true, you were my major inspiration for all of this, for us to rise above what is expected by our families and nations and for our ideas to be put into practice. I'm not asking for you two to become friends but to reduce yourself to petty squabbles over nothing? Wouldn't that be just falling into the stereotype of cat vs. dog dogma?"

"I suppose," Nefi grumbled while looking away while Sierra stared at her with a smug smile, "That's right, Nefi, you wouldn't want to be just the stereotypical cattish princess, would you?"

"You shouldn't be putting on airs either, Sierra. You are falling in the same dogma as her right now."

"What?"

"Ha," It was then Nefi turn to look at her with a smug expression as Sierra looked to Blueblood in surprise.

"Sierra, I've just met you, and I have already seen how you have a brilliant mind, maybe even greater than my cousin Twilight Sparkle, and that is one huge feat if I say so myself. I've barely seen one invention, and I already am enchanted by it and wish to know more. Both the invention and the wolf behind it. It is more than clear that, like Nefi here, you are more than just a beautiful Lycan princess."

"Why, thank you, Blueblood." She nodded, and he could see the beginnings of a blush behind all the grease and oil. "That is very thoughtful."

"And with a mind so brilliant, would it be too much to ask for you to set your differences aside for a moment and see the potential this society could bring us by working together?"

They look at one another before looking away stubbornly.

Sighing in frustration, Blueblood only shook his head. "It will also drive your parents crazy by the idea alone."

Both sets of royal ears instantly perked up the second he said that, and they looked at him once more. "With how much they have been ignoring you, I think a little punishment is in order. And what better torture could it be than hanging out with individuals they clearly have animosity with? It's ugly, and boy would I fight to see if there could be an end to it, but it will be mean a lot to me if, in our honor of friendship and as an act of good faith to our society, you would give peace a chance."

They mulled it over for a second before looking at each other "I suppose I've been too rash in rejecting this without giving it a chance first." Sierra began.

"Yeah, I mean, it's not like we are deciding to be friends for life or anything, and we can gain way more by working together than just grumbling and glaring at one another" Nefi nodded, rubbing her neck.

"Partners?" Sierra offered her hand

"Partners," Nefi completed the gesture before shivering in place, "why is your hand all greasy and sweaty?"

"I just finished repairing a chariot."

Nefi held back a scream and took a deep breath before speaking, "You better take a bath before joining Ms. Rarity."

"Agreed, Blueblood, would you like to join me?" He was once again caught entirely off guard by the sudden proposal until Rarity giggles and steps in front of the royal princesses. "Darlings, please, I, for one, approve of being more proactive, but a lady knows how to pace herself."

Blueblood let out a sigh of relief for Rarity's timely rescue from a tense situation. "Now then, I heard that Scarlet would be hosting a completely "innocent" bathing suit competition pretty soon. Wouldn't you be interested in indulging/ prove the Prince how you will give peace a chance with a friendly competition between the two?" Blindsided once more, Blueblood blinked owlishly as both princesses thought it over and then smirked at the Prince with interest.

"Sounds wonderful, Ms. Rarity."

"Bluey, would you like to act as our judge to see if they fi~t?" Nefi lingered in the last world, sending a shiver down the Prince's spine.

"Ah, sorry, I need to go speak with Pharynx soon. Chat about the society and all that."

"Shame, well, don't let us keep you waiting dear, and if you finish early, feel free to come to see us in my room. We could make it a runway," Nefertiti winked, and Sierra giggled at how he was left stiff before leaving, both wagging their tails a bit more pronounced than necessary .

"Rarity, what the heck!" He complained with a fluster face, "A bathing suit contest? What was all that about?"

She only chuckled briefly. "What is the matter, darling? It's not like you aren't curious. I also heard there is still one judge seat available. What is wrong with some innocent indulgence?"

Confused, Blueblood raised an eyebrow at his friend before testing a theory.

"You know, you are right, Rarity, and you know what could be perfect for their outfits? Green. Just that, and I mean all shades of greens in all sorts of bikinis. Green on top of green with darker and lighter shades of green to compliment."

"Green?" Rarity look at Blueblood in astonishment. "Blueblood, that is marvelous! You are a genius. I must get to work right away, ta-da" she gives him a flirtatious wink as he nervously nods with a blush before breaking character as soon as they are all gone.

Yep, that confirms it. She and the others are in some kind of trance, oh goodie.

"Pharynx! Pharynx!" Blueblood desperately knocked on the changeling's door while occasionally looking over his shoulder. "Open the door! We need to talk!"

"If you come to warn me, don't waste my time" Startled, he jumped back to see the changeling in question with a neutral expression. "I know"

"So you also noticed something is wrong with this place?"

"I did more than that. I figured out what's happening and confronted the owner." He responded blandly as he marched into his room. "Just came from seeing her, in fact."

"Great, then we can work together and…."

"AH!" He raises a hoof stopping Blueblood from continuing, "I told you I'm NOT getting involved with a lovers quarrel or crazy stalker plots, and that mare is surely the latter."

"Wha...WHAT!? So you are going to stand aside and let her control you too?"

"I never said that. I just thought you might want someone to explain to the rest of your guests what is happening, so no royals think this was some trap or princenapping, or would you rather take your chances with six very angry rulers next?" He pokes Blueblood's chest in annoyance.

"No, that sounds horrible."

"Exactly, besides this looks like an internal affair, it's best if none of your guests get too involved with the subject, trust me, that would be asking for an international incident, plus this is the perfect opportunity to see if you have what it takes to deal with a crisis. I heard Hestia's idea of putting you through a test, and I like it, so consider this mine. Resolve this crisis, and I will join this society of yours, on the spot not further questions ask."

"Seriously!? We can all be in danger, and you are just going to wash your hooves of it? Stand back and see how this all plays out?"

"Hey! I told you I'm not like my brother, and I'm not here to clean YOUR messes, Blueblood. If anything, you should be thankful I'm helping by not making this seem like an act of aggression toward Equestria's allies."

Blueblood only sighed in frustration and shook his head. "You are right. This isn't your problem. Thanks for helping me with at least that. I'll see how I would fix this as fast as I can."

"Good, and don't bother with the guards. Scarlet was smart enough to deal with them first. Right now, they will be as useful as a wet blanket."

The Prince turned around and prepared to leave when he heard Pharynx sigh in frustration and look over his shoulder. He notices him pinching the bridge of his nose.

"...Her book."

"Hmm?"

"Read her damn book! The first clue that she gave you will be enough to fill you in. THERE I helped you, now stop with the whining and go. Show me you know how to fix your own mistakes and can put your bits where your mouth is." He slammed the door behind him, ignoring the slight smile on Blueblood's face.

"And you said you don't care. Thanks, Pharynx."

He suppressed a chuckle when he heard a groan coming from the other side of the door.
> The Alluring Lust (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now more alert than ever, Blueblood went into his room and changed clothes into the uniform Rarity gave him, armed himself, and started parsing through the pages of the latest story of Scarlet's in an attempt to find any clues as to what was going on and what did she do now.

_There once was a radiant yet poor maiden whose heart was pure, though her mind was shy. Growing up with a loving family, there was nothing that she loved more than hearing about how their parents fell in love..._

_…one day, the maiden was trapped by a dragon..._

_...after overcoming their fears, both the maiden and dragoness joined forces, intrigued by what they could achieve together. The girl wished for fortune and more stories to tell, the dragon intrigued by the prospect of fame and glory..._

_...in love with the stories she heard and wrote, an impossible dream blossomed in the maiden's heart. If making stories was her life, why not ensure that her life became a story? The very best of all fantasies come true, she imagined. And so, the maiden set her mind on a new goal, achieving her magnum opus with one final story. The story that would be retold forever about how she accomplished what all fillies dream. A life in a castle, a fairy tale wedding, and a prince as her groom..._

Wait, groom?! Does she mean…?

Skipping ahead, Blueblood soon realized this book was more than just fantasy and understood that what he was reading was more like a diary or, more accurately, a confession of an unstable stalker.

_But when she finally found her Prince, the maiden's heart ached as the Prince was spoiled, selfish, and unkind. So much so was that he was accustomed to being pampered, so starving was his soul for empathy. It was clear as day. Almost like destiny calling for her. She needed to be by his side. She needed to fix him…_

_…miracles occurred as if to answer her prayers. The Prince saw the light, like a seed finally taking root. And where once there was just a project to fix, now stood a charming and radiant stud. One Whose inner beauty now matched his dashing appearance at last. Such were his charms that even the dragoness was entranced. Soon both she and the maiden shared a common desire. While sharing their ideas, both ladies realized that why should they be greedy with such a gift? A prince as magnificent as he needed to be shared. After all, there will always be a need for mares to warm their bed…_

_...A deal was struck, and maiden and dragon were now one and the same. With a form that he would have no choice but to fall in love with. Any other pleasures his heart could have and the maiden responsible would finally be seen as the perfect other half of the charming Prince with a human soul…_

As if it was made of fire, Blueblood tossed the foul book away in horror, shock, and disgust, not believing what he had just read.

No…it's impossible! How? How did she find out?! How long has she been stalking me!?

Rushing out of the door, Blueblood raced toward Scarlet's office, equal parts angry and eager for answers about what she had done.

"Scarlet! Open up! Open this door right now!" He demanded furiously as he twisted the knob and banged his hoof against the door, ignoring how behind him, the illusion of the hotel seemed to be fading and where once were clean walls was now a building reclaimed by nature.

"My, my, whatever is the rush, dear? So anxious are we for a private…?"

"I'm done playing games, Scarlet! I just read your book. What the heck is wrong with you?! How long have you been stalking me!?"

As if ignoring his demands, Scarlet's tone from the other side of the door never changed. "Oh, that's wonderful news, dear! I didn't want for us to keep secrets from one another."

"Scarlet!" He increased his banging and started to try and shoulder the door open, only for it to crack open slowly.

"Relax, honey. There's no need to rush. There will be plenty to talk about later, but first, be honest with me. How much did you like it? Sorry if it caught you off guard, but I couldn't keep silent anymore. I just needed to tell all of Equestria how much I love you and to prove to you how I'm the unquestionable perfect alpha for our soon-to-be glorious herd! I apologize for all the grammatical errors, though" Ever so slowly, the door kept opening as Blueblood heard the sound of vines and grass ripping. "But don't fret the small details. I guarantee you will love it…." finally breaching his way inside, the Prince paused when he found himself standing in the middle of a void where any and all light was absent. "…once you see how it ends."

"Blueblood?" Alert, Blueblood turned around and saw the silhouette of Fluttershy at the end of a dark corridor before running away.

"What the…? Fluttershy?" Giving chase, he started after her, only catching glimpses of her before she turned another corner. "Oh, stars, not you too, Fluttershy. Please listen to me; we need to get out of here. This hotel is not what it seems. Fluttershy…please wait! Fluttershy stop! Stop!" As he panted, the Prince tried to wait for his eyes to the darkness while the chase continued until he eventually reached the pegasus and took a moment to breathe.

"Fluttershy, I know this is crazy, but you need to believe me. This place is not what it seems it…." When he grabbed her shoulder, the Prince was surprised to see the pegasus had turned into a bipedal anthropomorphic form that still maintained her equine features. Not only that but behind here were Rarity and AJ, who both had similar appearances, and both wore nothing but a towel to cover their bodies. Suddenly a dense fog surrounded the group, and the Prince found himself in the middle of an open natural hot spring in the middle of the night, surrounded by a luscious forest with water reaching his waist.

"Yes, dear?"

"F-Fluttershy?" Blueblood started to look at the others. "Rarity? Applejack? What is happening?" Swallowing the lump in his throat. He noticed a golden ring on their fingers as the wet towels left less and less to the imagination.

"Don't you like it?" Pinkie suddenly appeared behind him and brought him into a hug, her chest firmly pressing against his back, making him very much aware of the fact that not only was he now bipedal all of a sudden, but there were also two very soft and prominent things pressing against his back "It is, just as you always dreamed off Bluey, how you wished we would have looked like all the time." Her voice turned softer as she began to speak and lightly nibble on his ear while the others slowly approached him with come hither eyes. "A dream come true."

"Drink it in, darling. You know I look fabulous!" Rarity announced, posing briefly while letting her towel fall off

"Not bad, eh partner? Go ahead, take a swing. I have rock-hard abs right here!" AJ challenged, lifting the lower half of her coverings to show how cut her stomach was, displaying a defined sixpack and barely covering private parts covered only by the fog and water level

"And we can remain like this forever and ever too! Isn't it great!? Now you don't have to struggle anymore. You can finally act on your greatest desires. We can even dance more easily as this" Fluttershy flashed him a kind smile while their eyes finally closed, preparing to kiss him. Blueblood heard water moving, and a splash gave him the idea that his friends were now completely exposed and hidden only by Fluttershy's looming face in front of him as the remaining mares hugged his sides. He had to close his eyes while a crimson red blush spread across his face as he tried to remain focused.

"I…y-yeah, I mean! No! Please, girls, stop it! It's not right! It's not fair to you! It…It's not REAL!" He pushed them back, and they turned to smoke, leaving the spring empty. Blueblood held his chest and panted profusely. It appeared that his body had returned to normal, while nearby, Scarlet started to hum thoughtfully.

"Well then, that wasn't supposed to happen, but I love it when they play hard to get!" Clapping her hands together, she casually walked toward the now fuming Prince, who glared daggers at the unicorn. The hot spring soon dries out and dissipates until they find themselves in an empty round room inside the hotel with only a red carpet. "Did you enjoy my little sample, darling? Don't lie to me, Bluey. I could sense that you were craving for it to be true."

"Like I would ever ask for something so selfish and cruel like that for them. You don't know me at all, Scarlet, maybe the old me would have fallen, but that is a life I have long left behind." He hissed out, quickly drawing Llamrai and Hengroen.

"Ah yes, your existence as a human, so cruel and bleak was your life as one." She nodded a couple of times while approaching calmly, ignoring the weapons completely. "As I recall, you didn't have a voice there either, right? No, it was always someone else making all the decisions."

She gently pressed a finger to each of the sword's edges and slowly pushed them away. "I say you more than earned your right to be selfish and have your wishes granted." Feeling an itch on his back, the Prince refused to look away from his opponent as he felt the same appendages Celestia gave him once.

"Isn't this your right? As a prince? As someone fair and just? As an atoned soul? Riches, wives, power, and more, you've more than earned it. What's so wrong with accepting the fruits of your labors? Now I will ask this nicely, please lay down your weapons and tell me." She got closer to his face. "What is your greatest desire?"

She was about to kiss him when the cold edge of a sword pressed against her neck, stopping her advance. "I say I'm done playing games, "dragon." Or should I say Desire?" Blueblood raised an eyebrow as the mare in question giggled and stepped back

"Clever boy."

Illuminated in a jade green aura, Scarlet grew to ten times her normal size. Her legs fused and lengthened until they resembled the body of a snake. Wings sprung forth from her back, and her features changed from an equine to draconic with a pink gem in the shape of a heart resting on her forehead while retaining her female human chest. Her arms and hips were covered by a thin golden chain and semi-transparent veil. Her wrists had two golden wristbands attached to the end of the sleeves veils, and a dark green sleeveless shirt covered her pronounced chest.

"If I may ask, what gave it away?"

"It wasn't all that hard. When we arrived, I had my suspicions about you. No hotel could be this well prepared, no matter what excuse you use. Twilight and Starlight already told me about you and what your deal is." She stalked around him as he tracked her pivoting to ensure she remained in sight. "Just like a dragon, your compulsion for hoarding wasn't subtle, especially with how you use this place to lure and farm it. You collect joy and desire instead of gold, aren't you?"

Leaning forward, Blueblood didn't realize until it was too late how she was now stroking his cheek tenderly with the back of one of her fingers. "My, my, such a brilliant Prince, you got almost everything right, dear, but why bother with the small details and boring exposition? Why not chat about what I would like to discuss." Blueblood's spine shivered when she started to lick her lips. "There are so many stories of the knight fighting the dragon, but why fight when instead we can make love?" She fluttered her eyelashes and extended her forked tongue near his face, causing Blueblood to flinch and jump back before readying his weapons. Desire laughed all the while at his reaction and flustered face.

"Aw, somepony is getting shy now? Don't be afraid. I don't bite."

"No, you only manipulate, brainwash, mind control, and possess others by blinding them with their deepest desires, so forgive me if I'm skeptical." now, it was Desire's turn to glare daggers at Blueblood. "That poor novelist, you have been pulling her strings since day one, haven't you?"

"Brainwashing? Mind control?" For once, she looked genuinely surprised before shaking her head and speaking quietly. "Oh no, dear, please don't compare me to my brother. I can't force my will onto others. I only open people's hearts and show them what they crave. I assure you, Scarlet has been in complete control of her faculties. Just like you, just like the other royals, and even your dear friends." Snapping her fingers, four spotlights appeared behind Desire, showing Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie smiling calmly at him.

"Girls!" Blueblood rushes towards them, and Pinkie doesn't waste time hugging him. "Wow, Bluey, I'm flattered that you miss us, but we just saw each other." She giggles lightly.

"Don't worry, girls, I will find a way to break the mind control and save you." He ended the hug and saw that all of them were eyeing him with growing concern as he looked into their pink glowing eyes.

"Save? But darling, we are not in any single danger whatsoever. We want this." Rarity explained as they marched toward Desire.

"Desire isn't such a bad gal partner. I spent a long time being oblivious to many things, my head all stuck on the farm and whatnot. Thanks to her, I realized that something was missing. I think my family wasn't all that far off, partner." AJ confessed while looking down before smiling with a blush. "I think I got a crush on you." She breathed in relief, holding her chest. "Boy howdy! I have never felt so happy to be this honest with myself." A red mist started to emanate from Desire and surrounded AJ until she disappeared.

"Applejack!"

"I confess, after being knocked back to reality from our first encounter, I went and did tons of soul searching and realized how silly that dream of mine was." Rarity chuckled in embarrassment. "I have been petty and childish, holding a grudge against a pony genuinely wishing to change their ways, and never once thought I could have feelings for you again. But after one single night with you? After being praised so much by a stud so kind and beautiful. It was bound to happen." Blueblood watched in horror, seeing Rarity was starting to disappear. "I will never forget the night we slept together, darling, your fur against my body, the warm, the soothing heartbeat of...oh, for Celestia's sake, may Equestria know! I love you, Blueblood!" She loudly proclaimed before disappearing too.

"Rarity!"

"Oh, don't worry, Bluey, nothing bad is happening to them," Pinkie chuckled, appearing next to him.

"What?"

"Yeah, Desi is just absorbing their desires and bodies to merge with her own to become one single mare, just like what happened to Scarly."

"WHAT?!" Blueblood looked at her, astonished at her casual revelation, but before he could protest, she blindsided him with a kiss full on the lips, leaving him sputtering as she laughed

"I mostly just got curious at what the big deal was." She tasted her lips for a moment. "Not bad actually, but for real now, the reality is that for how much I love everypony, the truth is that none of them take me seriously when the subject of a romantic partner comes up, and that was cool. I honestly didn't think about it either until we spent that night making cakes and other desserts." She smiled sincerely at him while caressing his cheek. "Thanks for seeing me as a mare, Bluey."

She started to get teary-eyed before closing them. "You made me extra duper happy that day."

"Pinkie, I didn't know." He tried to hold her hoof, but she too vanished before he could reach her.

"No, no, no! Don't go! Not now after telling me this."

"Blueblood," The shy voice of Fluttershy made his heart sink as she slowly made his way toward him with calm and grace.

"Please stop fighting it."

"Fluttershy, no, please, not you too" Kneeling, he let her pull his face into a hug where he could hear her heartbeat.

"There is nothing wrong with finding us attractive."

"But my soul…mi mind…I'm so confused. I shouldn't."

She silenced him by sushing him and caressing his head. "Just let it go, Blueblood. Close your eyes and let things take their course." Ignoring the red mist surrounding the two, she ended the hug and grabbed his face so that he could look her in the eyes. "This is no longer earth, and you are more than a human now. You are more than that, so why not explore it more? I know of Nefi and Sierra too, and I'm ok with that. We all are."

"You are?"

She nodded once. "Why not expand your horizons? Admit to yourself that your tastes have evolved? You are not a bad person. You don't discriminate, and you love all races equally. You love your aunts, don't you?"

"I do"

"Then if you can love them as your family, then there is no reason not to desire a mare as your partner, and even more." As if in a trance, his eyes started to water as their faces drew closer, "Equestria is a polygamous society. Love has no boundaries here. You are free to choose."

"Yes."

"Then stop thinking so hard and hurting yourself with lies and thoughts about being wrong. Focus on how you can have it all if you can embrace it." Closing his eyes, the Prince surrendered and started to kiss her slowly as the mist surrounded them both. Her body slowly turned into that of Scarlet's original equine form. Then, the Prince's crown shined brightly and flashed once, blasting the spirit away from him and dissipating the fog.

"WHAT!?" Looking back in shock and with two voices, Desire saw Blueblood shaking off his trance as he held his head, massaging his temples.

"Wha…what just, I almost..." Recovering his senses, he glared at her in anger. "The girls, what have you done to them!?" Now gripped by a cold fury, Blueblood charged his horn and readied his swords. "Desire? Scarlet? I don't care who or what you are now! Using others' dreams and pleasures against them is beyond repulsive! I'm done with diplomacy; I will stop you with force if words don't work. This madness ends NOW!"

"What is happening? How are you still rejecting us?! Our magic is flawless. No living being can resist their desires!" She then noticed his crown still shining.

"That crown" Standing up, Desire started to get angry

"My crown?" Blueblood raised an eyebrow at the mention of it.

"That damn piece of silver is enchanted with some kind of failsafe. That is why nothing we do seems to put your mind at peace!"

"Wait, enchanted? So those bad feelings...god, why didn't I figure it out sooner?! It came from Discord, for Pete's sake. Of course, he wouldn't just gift a regular crown." He internally chuckled at his good fortune.

Recovering her composure. Desire dusted herself off briefly. "No matter! If that piece of metal is the only obstacle left..." Stomping on the grass, Desire grasped a long thorny vine that emerged and morphed until it became a wickedly sharp rapier in a shape reminiscent of a rose. The petals formed a complex hilt while the stem and thorns served as the blade. "...then it will be a simple matter of smashing it to pieces."

Gathering the magic around them, Desire dispelled the illusion of the room, revealing that they were in the open in the middle of a grassy field surrounded by pillars and rows of seats in a gladiatorial style arena where all the guests, including the royals, sat acting as spectators with Discord and Cadence still bound by vines placed in a raised and shaded booth near the arena floor.

"And to be perfectly honest? This could be even better." Testing her blade with a couple of flourishes in the air, Desire's weapon left the pleasant smell of roses in the air as it passed. "I have experienced the greatest of carnal pleasures throughout history!" Pointing at one pillar, the structure was quickly covered in vines and roses that bloomed, spreading more of her visible golden pollen. "Feasted on the most exquisite of dishes ever made!" She then pointed to the ground filling the floor with a mosaic of different colored petals, and soon more of them started to fall from the sky. "But none of it" She pointed the sword at him and eagerly licked her lips. "Nothing else excites me more than forcing open my target desires with my claws!" She proclaimed with heart-shaped eyes and a glowing body.

Suddenly Desire's body morphed again, shifting into an anthropomorphic alicorn version of herself. One that retained her hairstyle, though one could see a streak of AppleJack's blond mane, tail color, and hairstreaks for Pinkie, Rarity, and Fluttershy. A pinkish-white fur covered her form as her eyes turned reptilian and pink. A second pair of pegasus wings sprung forth along with a serpentine tail. A sports bra with sequins and jewelry wrapped around her torso, a semi-transparent cape hung about her waist, and parachute pants with bandages tied about her calves give her an alluring Arabic belly dancer appearance.

"Sublime Quimera," Desire spoke using six voices.

"Scarlet, what have you done?" Blueblood asked her in horror, looking at her hoard of desire and joy on full display. "All those ponies, no…all these creatures, are they all your victims? you put them under some trance, too?"

"Sweetie, we're tired of repeating ourselves here. We told you we don't do that. All of them are here of their own free will." She raised her blade into a guard, "Willing spectators gathered to witness the greatest wedding imaginable." She pointed at a gazebo with white flowers decorations and an elegant bride and groom outfit. "The crescendo of our final story and victory over that impostor preaching about how love can exist without desire." She glared while gesturing at Cadence as she struggled against her restraints while looking at Blueblood.

"Cadence!" Blueblood rushed to the platform in horror until a wall of vines circled the arena's edge, halting his efforts.

"A pa, pa, sorry sweetie, this will not be an interactive audience now. and there will be no outside interference here." Turning back. Blueblood barely dodged a magical blast that turned into vines when it hit the ground as Desire approached. "And unfortunately, the wedding will have to be placed on hold until we resolve this lingering issue between us."

Pointing her weapon at him, she glared at Blueblood. "Not going to a lie, part of us is happy things became like this. All great love stories need an obstacle, so if you truly wish for us to play the cliche scene of a dragon vs. Prince as we battle and blast our way into your heart? Then fine by us, we can play."

She then addressed the other royals. "Let this be a demonstration, esteemed guests! Allow us to show you a sample of our powers and how they could be used to achieve all our goals with one swift move! We share your passion and dreams for your voices to be heard! Become my generals and aid me in spreading my seeds worldwide, and I promise, no matter what your dream is, it will be fulfilled."

Blueblood was impressed and unnerved by how some guests considered her proposal, while others like Skystar, Sierra, and Nefertiti looked at him with concern. The rest, like Hestia, were just looking indifferently at the situation, intrigued to see how it would play out. Yet he could see the glint in their eyes. Even if subtle, it was clear that Desire had gotten their attention.

"Heh, so this was your plan all along, eh? World domination through me and other royals. Pathetic, at least your brother was skilled enough to do it himself."

"HEY! Discord already got his turn ruling the planet. Now it's our time to shine, but do not fret. Our world would be far more cheerful and fulfilling than what he could have dreamed up." She said while smirking at her sibling.

"But first, there is one last king piece that needs to be crowned and placed on the gameboard."



"I'm not afraid of those that hide behind others and have them fight their battles."

"Oh, you think we are hiding? Allow us to correct that." Charging her horn Blueblood was blindsided when she adopted a very familiar pose.

"Wait, that pose…no, it can't be!" He barely had time to raise a half globe of magic and his swords in his defense before she disappeared. Not a second after, a brutal wave of light assaulted the Prince, drawing him into a star shower "Divine Star Shower Slash," Desire intoned as the wave increased and obliterated Blueblood's defense sending him flying as the audience cheered at the spectacle in front of them.

"No, she is almost complete," Discord mumbled in fear at the display before him.

"What is happening? What did she do?" Cadence looked back at him for an answer.

"This is why Desire is the most dangerous of our family. With a vessel to Anchor her to this plane, she can use the full capacity of her powers and reclaim her original title."

"Original title?"

"Like any other tree, Desire's real danger lies not in how life itself is enough for her to exist but how she can extend her "roots" all over time and space. The longer she remains on this plane, the more information she can copy. Any form of magic, Any combat style, and eventually? She can change reality to be whatever her vessel desires. This makes her a force of nature that once was able to topple empires. That is why she was once known and feared by everyone as Yggdrasil, the forest dragon."

"YOUR SISTER IS THE LEGENDARY WORLD TREE THAT IS BELIEVED TO BE CONNECTED TO ALL REALMS AND DIMENSIONS?!"

"A bit of an exaggeration, but in a word, yes. Or rather, that is what she will become if left alone. That's why our family doesn't exactly like the idea of her coming to this side of the realms. Give her enough time and a vessel that eventually 'desires it.' She would be able to reshape the world just like I once did. Not even the Elements of Harmony would be enough to stop her by then." Discord continued with a worried tone in his voice.

Blueblood recovered from the attack and held his chest in pain as he slowly stood up.

"Only small cuts and hits with the flat of my sword, dear. We wouldn't want to harm your scrumptious body or harm that fabulous outfit you're wearing." Scarlet commented, allowing him to catch his breath. "But we believe we have made our point already. Now tell me, darling, are you still not afraid?"

Blueblood remained quiet before launching at her with a blistering series of cuts, slashes, and thrusts, all of which she easily parried or dodged. "Any requests for what style you would want to see next? Hurricane's? Rockhoof's? maybe Flash Sentry's style, perhaps?"

He didn't respond while she continued taunting him and forced him back, moving the Prince onto the defense with her assaults. "No, you are right. Why stop this good thing we have going here? Your Dear aunty is already the undefeated swordmaster and is one of the best that has ever existed, besides," As their blades locked together for a moment, their faces came closer, Desire smirked and blew a kiss at him. "This way, you can finally have your wish granted, am I right?"

Springing apart, Desire invited in an attack with an opening that the Prince tried to exploit. Blueblood struck and pinned Desire to the ground. Blueblood thought he could take advantage of this position until he heard a moan. "Oh please, harder, your majesty."

Recoiling, the Prince hesitated, leaving him wide open for an attack from Desire's tail, which cracked like a whip and sent him flying in what would have been an uncontrolled heap if not for him recovering in mid-air through the subtle application of magic. "The hell?"

He stood and closed in once more as Desire advanced, pressing her blade against him, and despite looking thin and delicate, her monstrous strength started to show as Blueblood was forced to kneel to not be crushed. "I knew you would like some rough foreplay. Now it's time to deal with this nuisance."

Shifting her position to unbalance Blueblood, Desire gathered herself before recoiling back, fully prepared to slash the crown from the Prince's head. The battle would have ended there if not for the Prince's quick actions, teleporting away in the last moment before impact. Desire quickly blocked an attack from behind. "Ah, a quick step and faint, standard unicorn royal guard move. You have been practicing, but it's still…."

Desire was caught off guard by the follow-up blow that sliced into her abdomen when Blueblood spun in place like a top and brought his other sword into her midsection before pressing his advantage and seizing the fight's momentum.

"What? How did Desi not see that?" Discord questioned in astonishment at the blow.

"Cousin? of course, he must have figured it out!" Cadence replied as the Draconequus looked back at her for an explanation.

"Blueblood and I have been exchanging mail from time to time. Ever since I went back to the Crystal Empire, and in his notes, he told me how much he has worked towards winning a duel against my Aunt Luna." She smiled at the memory. At the same time, they watched a surprised and off-balance Desire start to struggle to try to match Blueblood's pace and new fighting style.

"From training with the guards to researching old tomes to asking around the castle for options, he has been set his mind on figuring out a way to keep aunt Luna unbalanced, and in his last letter, he told me of a new strategy that had brought him closer."

"Even if he figured something out, there is no way Desi didn't know it already."

"Unless it's an entirely new style." Cadence countered, "You said it yourself. She can copy everything that has been practiced or made before, correct? Then what about something that was created just now? She can copy all the combat styles she wants, but in the end, against something brand new, there is no way she would not struggle."

Blocking a strong vertical slash, Desire lost her footing, and when Blueblood stepped back before lunging forward with another cut, his blades scything out to bite into her arms. "The earth pony's powerful strikes combined with the swift footwork and movement of the pegasi."

Using her wings, Desire took to the air. Deciding to change tactics and started to launch an aerial assault on the Prince but was surprised when using his swords and magic, Blueblood lifted off the ground surrounded by a nimbus of magic and dust and countered with aerial strikes of his own. before teleporting in front of her and knocking her further into the air with another powerful overhead strike. "The well-known pegasi faints while adding magical strikes from unicorns."

Spinning in place, he chambered a kick from his rear hooves before jumping and teleporting on top of Desire, planting his hooves square in the middle of her back and cannoning Desire back into the ground. "The powerful kicks that earth ponies are so well known for paired with the grace of a pegasus flying professional, and those are just three examples. Yes, Blueblood has been training every day to find his path on what he called 'the way of the alicorn,' to understand better how to confront an opponent like aunt Luna who has all the tribe's advantages. While he may still be a unicorn, I believe he is getting closer and closer to achieving his goal with each passing night. Listen well, Discord, that sister of yours may know every combat style, but if she thinks she can win against my cousin without any effort, she has another thing coming."

Charging his horn, Blueblood shifted towards Desire, who had yet to recover, only for him to be blocked by a panting Desire, who, after regaining her breath, started to giggle and grin. "Yes, more!"

Looking at Blueblood, she flashed him a disturbingly large smile. "This is it." blocking a slash. Blueblood flowed backward with his guard up.

"The moment you have been waiting for, right? To stand on equal ground with dear auntie." Their swords clashed, and they circled each other "To finally be able to put her against the ropes." Jumping back, she took to the air once more, and Blueblood lifted pieces of the ground and used them as a platform to give chase.

"To dance the beautiful waltz of steel."

Clenching his teeth, Blueblood glared at her. "You are telling me you took those blows on purpose? Are you toying with me?" He demanded as he pressed the attack, only for Desire to match it and bind their weapons together, leaving their faces close once again.

"Well, it would not be much of a fight if there is not some back and forth, wouldn't it, and I told you not to lie, love. I see the glimmer in your eyes. You love this just as much as I do." Desire smirked as his hooves trembled in exertion.

"Don't worry, sweetie. I can lead."

Booping her nose against his, Blueblood went cross-eyed for a moment and then widened when suddenly he felt like he was fighting Pinkie Pie, who started giggling, "This is fun!"

"What?" Surprised, the Prince barely registered what happened when Desire's attacks got more substantial and unpredictable, and soon he was forced to kneel once more. "Come on, partner, put your back to it. That can't be all your strength now, right? " It was now AJ who he felt that he was confronted with until he recovered his composure and, with a slash, pushed her back while pressing forward with a series of lunging trusts until one ripped some of the sequins off, earning a moan and a gasp from Desire.

"Darling!" Covering her chest, Blueblood's cheeks heated up when Desire fluttered her eyelash at him and started to act like Rarity "No need to be so rough with the attire. I spent so much time making this creation." Casually standing up, Blueblood gulped when she used her magic to lift him. "If you wish to undress me, we can come up with a much more pleasant alternative."

"Desire! That's playing dirty!" Blueblood shouted before teleporting away from her hold as she giggled.

"'All's fair in love and war' and right now? You are not facing one individual here, honey." Desire quoted with a smirk before attacking with a series of simple slashes making the Prince retreat back from each attack as the realization of his situation dawned on him. "You are facing all of us!"

I didn't want to believe it, but just like Pinkie said, right now I'm not just fighting Desire and Scarlet, I'm fighting them plus four of my friends! She knows I couldn't possibly harm them. But if I don't do something… He had to shake his head as more promiscuous thoughts invaded his mind. Even with the aid of the crown ringing alarm bells, it was getting harder and harder to concentrate.

How do I fight her without harming my friends?

A steel-lined punch to the face brought Blueblood back to reality before blocking another series of looping slashes from Desire's blade. "Look alive, partner! Can't have you drifting off to la-la land in the middle of a brawl, right?"

"Applejack, please snap out it! Look around you. Desire is using you! She's using all of…."

"Agh! Again with that darlin', and I thought I was the stubborn one" Desire only rolled her eyes. "We. Are. Fine!" They punctuated each word with a slash, pommel strike to the chest, and a kick to the ribs that laid the Prince low, plowing him into the ground and grass as he held his side and tried to recover his breath.

"This is all us, just a couple of gals having fun with their colt friend, now up you go."

"Desire, using my friends like this...I will never forgive you!"

"My, my darling, someone is getting worked up over nothing." She fluttered her eyelashes. "Remember, you are the one that insisted on fighting, sweetie. Although now I see why you refused to change into that delightful Blood Moon form of yours. There is always next time, and we can stop right now if you wish. All you need to do is remove that nasty crown of yours and let us into your heart. We will certainly let you inside us."

Gripping the hilts of his weapons tighter, Blueblood clenched his teeth and held back some tears before resuming his attacks on the spirit.

This is going to hurt me so much.

He dodged one attack and managed to strike her stomach, which was swiftly followed by a blast of magic. "Girls, if any of you can hear me, I'm so sorry! This was the only way to rescue all of you!" Blueblood yelled with a heavy heart, steeling his nerves and trying to go back on the offensive.

Desire, for her part, only laughed at his remark and continued to block his attacks effortlessly. "Our hero, such gallant and kind words you just said, Blueblood. It is fueling our desires for you even more, but unfortunately..."

She sped up, and her attacks became stronger and almost too fast for him to perceive. And as much as he tried to parry and counter, Desire started to overwhelm him with her strikes, Ignoring the crown and starting to toy with him a little.

"We are done playing around. After all, this is supposed to be a romance novel, not an action-adventure comic. It was fun while it lasted, but your words have reached us, honey. We are just eager to play doctor next as we take our time kissing all your booboos away. Yes, that would be a perfect way to bring this love story back on track." Desire declared victory as she executed more of Luna's signature moves blindsiding the Prince. He is left powerless and defenseless until, finally, he is confronted by another star shower that messed with his perception. He felt himself floating in the vacuum of space briefly before crashing down to reality and falling to the ground, covered in minor cuts and bruises. His crown split in half from the final attack coming to rest on the ground in front of him.

"And thus the knight has fallen, overwhelmed by his opponent's strength. Though, he can't help but wonder who this mysterious maiden is who now invades his thoughts? The maiden, meanwhile, still lingers on the one question yet to be answered. What is your greatest Desire, dear Prince Blueblood?" Desire started to narrate to herself as if she was taking notes on how to proceed with her final novel.

Panting in exhaustion, Blueblood kept his gaze low as he tried to fill his lungs with as much air as possible and ignore the alluring voices enticing him as his body aches and pains and began to fade. His stamina was almost gone, and his magic not far behind. His thoughts slowly turned to desperation, having exhausted all of his repertoire of movements.

"Blueblood," the Prince blinked and then stared with wide eyes. He raised his head only to find himself in the void with a figure of Twilight Sparkle standing in front of him, constructed entirely of magic. Stepping closer, she used her horn to show an image of his cousin casting this spell before being captured. "Listen to me" Her echoey voice spoke without a mouth before approaching his ear and whispering something that confused him briefly before a revelation dawned in the Princes mind.

Smiling, he gazed down again as the figure dissipated into pure magic and brought a new glimmer with Twilight's cutie mark shining in his eyes which he could see while admiring his reflection in the sword. His stamina and magic slowly started to return. Twilly, you genuinely are a lifesaver.

"Is this the part where I finally surrender, Desire? That is what you want to hear, Right? Yeah, that sounds logical. From where I kneel, it sounds like the only option left—especially when fighting someone so overwhelmingly powerful. This takes me back" Ignoring her confused expression, Blueblood simply took a deep breath and closed his eyes as he lifted his head, reminiscing about his last sparring lesson with his Aunt.

The night before Blueblood's trip to Ponyville

During their daily lessons, the Princess forgot her restraint and started dueling with all her might, quickly overwhelming her nephew due to her getting lost in the moment. It was such a rush of adrenaline that she did not realize her actions until one powerful strike destroyed his wooden sword and sent him flying toward the rack where more wasters were neatly arranged, destroying the furniture and making the Prince groan in exhaustion and pain.

Catching his second wind, he looks up only to see his Aunt frozen in shock at his state while slowly lowering her gaze to her own weapon. Immediately the Prince recognized what was happening, and a stab of pity pierced through his heart now that he had discovered a well-kept fear his Aunt had yet to overcome. The fear of others being afraid of her. Of proving everyone right for being wary of Nightmare Moon returning, maybe as something even worse. And now, in front of his eyes, that fear was growing stronger by the mere thought of instilling this fear in her own family.

Her line of thought was interrupted once some shifting debris caught her attention, and looking up, she saw that the Prince had stood with some difficulty. "I surrender…That is what I should be saying now, isn't aunty?"

Luna's guilt kept building until she was surprised by her nephew's chuckle and smiling face. "Yeah, anyone else in my position would probably say that. It's the only option left. I should too but unfortunately…."

Lifting into the air, the Princess was left speechless when her nephew turned into Blood Moon. Rather than using Clarent or summoning Llamrai and Hengroen, he picked up two random practice swords and looked at her with stars in his eyes "…I can't do that, not when I'm having this much fun!" Lowering his stance, Blood Moon raised a quick salute before dropping into guard. "Come at me, auntie! This fight is not over yet. Show me who is the mare of the moon!"

Having fun?… Show him who I am?… Nephew, even now, you don't hold any ill will towards me? Trembling a little and shedding a tear, a smile blossomed on the Princess's face.

"My sweet, stubborn boy." She said with a choked voice and tears in her eyes. She released all of her magic. The ground started to tremble as her body was engulfed by her astral force until a pillar of light emanated from her body briefly before it all ended, and she got into her own preferred stance. "I pray you don't regret this later. I'm done holding back, nephew!"

"I wouldn't have it any other way!" And with that, both student and teacher laughed and charged each other for their final fight of the night. Even if it lasted only a couple of minutes, that moment in time was filled with complete and pure joy between the two.

The garden was filled with the sounds of their combined strikes and laughter as tears kept flowing in their eyes. No words were needed. It was at that moment that both understood each other emotions perfectly. The mare of the night was grateful for finding a pony who had nothing but admiration for her and her work as only her sister had done before. And the Prince of Canterlot now has embraced and loved his new family, swearing to make sure that they would never feel misery or loneliness ever again as long as he had something to say about it.

It wasn't until one powerful slash managed to make a clean cut through his swords that they both felt time returning, as he heard the pieces of his weapons falling into the distance and a burn mark was scored in his chest, causing Blueblood to return to normal and could feel his last embers of energy start to extinguish, and his vision started to get blurry, his Aunt was mere inches away from him, looking up for some reason.

"Damn…and I thought this time…I would reach you…I was…so close" keeping his gaze down, he managed to weakly chuckle before falling on the Princess's chest feeling drops of rain plink down on top of his head before passing out, only detecting some garbled sounds from Luna before closing his eyes.

Signing in relief, Blueblood opened his eyes and looked back at Desire. "Before I respond, tell me something, Desire."

With shaky legs, he slowly started to stand and picked up the pieces of his crown. Desire didn't bother to stop him, believing the battle was more than over. "You have been going on and on about fulfilling dreams and desires, but you never once mentioned our achievements."

"Huh?"

"Since we started our fight, I wondered why your attacks always seemed to lack a certain sense of finality." He chuckled briefly and shook his head. "Can't believe I kept overlooking something so obvious that was right in front of me. No wonder you don't like my cousin Cadence. She truly is your superior isn't she?"

That seemed to tip her off as Desire soon glares at him, her magic starting to engulf her weapon. "Careful now, darling. You're treading on incredibly thin ice."



He only laughed off her warning. "As if I care for the opinion of someone so shallow. Answer me this, Desire."

With a smile, the Prince recalled a time when he just laughed while lying on the ground covered in sweat. "Have you ever collapsed, laughing your heart out after achieving a move you spent countless nights perfecting?"

A tear ran down his cheek when he recalled the times he spent with Celestia and how using the changeling necklace, they managed to snuggle next to her fire like a mare caring for her colt. Both of their eyes were slightly damp with tears of happiness from the action. "Have you ever shed tears of joy after finally finding the love that you craved for years?"

He sighed in relief at his last duel with Luna, looking at his swords. "Have you ever loved and admired your opponent so much that you didn't even care that you lost to them?"

Blueblood returned his gaze to his opponent and was met only with a glare and a raised, confused eyebrow. His suspicions were confirmed. The Prince shook his head and sighed in pity. "No, of course, you haven't. Your attacks are not even the final product but the ones still in process. After all, that is the flaw behind your name."

"What did you just say?!" Desire demanded, now completely livid

"A flaw? Can an endless one even have one?" Triceps asked his peers

"I think I see what he is coming from," Pharynx answered with his hoof under his chin in thought. "You could argue that desire and want are synonymous. Desire in itself isn't exactly achieving something, but rather it is the driving force to seek it in the first place."

"But if the goal is to obtain…." Hestia came to the same conclusion "…I get it now. It makes sense when you think about it. A colt wishing to be a guard doesn't have the same drive the second he becomes one while enjoying his job is not desire. It's love in general. That is what he meant with Cadence being her superior."

"So all her promises were not real in the end?" Skystar wondered out loud.

"No, I believe she meant it," Nefertiti told her before glaring slightly at Desire. "It would simply have never ended one way or another. She would have to hang our prizes over our heads but then put a condition or an obstacle of some kind in our way so we would never truly achieve it completely and would just continue to desire it endlessly."

"Is that true?" Cadence turned to Discord for an answer. "She really can't grant a complete wish?"

"No. That is how Desi has been all her life. No matter what she tries, the second a dream comes true. She loses all of her power. To sustain herself, she either moves from host to host or drives her current one from one wish to another. And in the end, the results are all the same. Desire dies if it is just granted out of thin air."

"But what about what you said earlier? That she encompasses every single Desire possible, and she only needs the idea of life itself to exist?"

"It the same situation as obtaining a job Cadence, it always present yeah, but its a speak of dust for her, unless the subject desire something like a 'healthier, wealthier or different life.' No one actively wishes for the life they already have 24/7. Don't they?"

"I can't believe a spirit like her could have such a huge flaw."

"I wouldn't be celebrating victory just yet, Candy," Discord warned. "While it is true that Desi has that nasty flaw in her powers, that doesn't mean the fight has changed. Bluey still has to figure a way to win. Especially when my sister has had eons to figure out ways around that flaw with lust, and in this hotel/casino, the idea of 'beat the house' and naked lust are a few cases where the Desire can endure and turn into obsession easily. She was smart enough to collect five horny mares for additional power."

"That's why she is doing this! Lust is a viable energy source that lasts more than anything else for her" Cadence's eyes widen in alarm. "And even worse, rejection can make one's desire for someone even stronger."

Discord nodded as they continued to watch the fight. "Correct, if she succeeds, I imagine she would just continue to find a way to twist all the wishes made into lustful ones. Maybe she intended to use the other royals as seeds to expand her influence faster. She probably would turn the world into some bizarre orgy planet where lust runs rampant, and only a fragile line of self-control exists. Blueblood needs to come up with something and fast if he intends to turn things around."

"Let me warn you, honey, you might be cute, and nothing would make me happier than you claiming me, but it not very wise to anger an endless one." Desire glared and pointed at Blueblood with her rapier.

"Well, thanks for the concern, but you should know something as well." He stood on two hooves and showed one piece of the crown and his sword floating with his magic. "This crown and these swords are more than just a gift from a friend and family heirlooms" He brings the other piece and sword into an x in front of him. "They are proof of my devotion to improving myself. My accomplishments and dreams made reality through blood, sweat, and tears. Compared to that, facing an opponent like you is nothing. Against someone who refuses to cross the finish line and just keeps dragging things on and on, wishing to reach the goal. Someone too scared to reach the top of the mountain, I simply can't lose!"

Extending his swords, Blueblood closed his eyes and charged his horn as his body and weapon shone with a solid purple light, briefly blinding everyone present.

"How many tricks does that pony have?" Triceps questioned, shielding his face

"Is he using the remaining of his magic on one final strike? If he misses, it is all over" Discord voiced his concern until he saw Cadence's shocked expression slowly morph into a smile. "No, I recognized that light Blueblood, are you…?" She tears up and needs to clean her eyes. "Go, Blueblood! You can do it!"

Engulf by the purple light, the Prince fired his magic into the air, parting the clouds in the sky as his body started to morph. To Desire's horror, the crown pieces not only melted and combined with the edge of his swords, but a rainbow-colored light also seemed to come from the sky and infuse itself with his weapons.

"No, that is impossible. The crown not only fused, it somehow acted as a magnet and called the elements of harmony to his aid? But how?!"

She then remembers Twilight's final act and clenches her teeth. "Twilight, she used the same trick I did and sent her magic to Blueblood to act as a lightning rod. He is infusing love and friendship magic into his blades! B-But there is no way a weapon can hold so much power unless t…that infernal cow! Those blades are her creations?!" Desire realized as she noticed the silhouette of a giant Holstaur with four arms crossed, smirking at her before disappearing.



With renewed vigor, Blueblood cast a spell on himself and turned his body bipedal as a new golden crown appeared on his head, and a shining blue streak appeared in his now longer hair while their swords turned white and glowed with the same rainbow light glinting along the edges of the matched blades. "You have my thanks."

Desire could not help but drool lustfully at Blueblood's new appearance until he calmly opened his eyes, showing a baby blue light instead of a sclera and irises. "I'm now at peace with myself and my sexuality." He smiled and casually flicked a blade to the side, eliciting a solid gust of wind. "I'll no longer question my feelings toward mares, bipedal, or any other type of lady. I now realize I am attracted to all of them."

Desire smiled at that. "Am I finally getting through…?"

She steps forward only for a slash of magic and air to cut her cheek, hurting her and causing the cut to petrify. "It's such a shame, but I simply can't have those kinds of feelings toward you after everything you have done. Don't feel bad, Scarlet. You are just misguided and confused like I once was. I will certainly aid you in finding the help you need... but first." His expression turned serious, and he adopted his guard once more. "I will rescue those you have trapped."

Desire felt a pang of fear for the first time, knowing how his sword could potentially turn her into stone as it did her brother in the past. "No…I'm so close. I finally got you to admit and express your desires. I can't stop now!" Throwing restraint to the four winds, she summoned giant vines from the ground with sharp thorns and turned them to use as weapons.

Not intimidated in the slightest by this display, Blueblood launched himself at her and blocked every attack as her concern grew. Each exchange started more slowly, giving her no choice but to use all of her power and engulf the arena in a half-sphere of projectiles going at Mach speeds, heading straight to Blueblood to turn him into a pincushion.

"There it is! One of Desire's signature moves, World of Torns, it's over. Being trapped in that attack is no different than being engulfed in a forest made complete of thorns and vines. There is no way Blueblood could escape that." Discord tells Cadence getting invested in the battle but never stop being concerned.

"Don't be so sure, Discord; Blueblood is not done yet, and he has the greatest aid possible."

"What?" He looked at her, confused as she pointed at the stadium. "Look again"

To his shock, Blueblood was holding his own and even was cutting his way through the onslaught of relentless assaults in a flurry of steel, all while keeping his eyes on the prize. "That is not an ordinary fighting style."

Dodging with such speed that he resembled a ghost, Blueblood pressed the advantage against Desire "The quick maneuvers of Rainbow Dash."

quickly retreating to gain space, Desire barely dodged a slash that cleaved a deep furrow in the ground "The titanic strength of Applejack."

Countering another strike, Blueblood charged head-long with a middle slash that split the vines into kindling like they were paper "The point-blank precision of Rarity."

Gulping, Desire started to lose her composure under the intense gaze of Blueblood as she began to suffer more and more strikes "The overwhelming force of the stare of Fluttershy."

Screaming in fear, anger, and frustration, Desire abandoned all pretense of defense and launched a blistering counterattack, swinging and thrusting wildly. Blueblood dodged and weaved around them as if his body was water. "The dodging capabilities of Pinkie."

Recovering her breath, she struck forward as Blueblood crossed his swords to catch her attack "and finally, the strategic thinking and support of Twilight, and my aunts combine."

"What? Except for two of the princesses, none of them have ever carried a sword in their life!" Discord questioned in disbelief, "how can he copy a style that doesn't exist?"

"Don't underestimate the power of love," Cadence smirked at him. "As the saying goes, 'you learn more from failure than from success,' and my cousin has lost a lot. Blueblood never stopped wondering how he could improve, not only in battle but in life. Every lesson taught, every conversation he had, everything he could learn from everyone, he took it all to heart and kept playing with scenarios in his mind, coming up with new ways to use what he had learned and thinking outside the box. That is where the true potential of his cutie mark lies: To bravely explore the unknown. To rush forward into the darkness and see the world as only he can. And now, encouraged by his love for his family and friends, my cousin was able to map his way to victory. Desire might know every fighting style, but against someone like Blueblood, who will keep standing up, who he never will give up, she could get so far. She made the mistake of underestimating him and now that he has figured her out, this fight is more than over."

Cadence stood up and smirked at the panicking spirit. "Do you see it now, Desire!? This is the power of love, resulting from hard work and determination. Instead of just wishing for something to happen. This battle is already over no matter what tricks you have left."

Cadence! Wholly and thoroughly enraged, Desire tried to do something, but her attacks were the only thing preventing Blueblood from ending the fight. More than half of her body was already stone, and her movements became even more labored. Yet no matter how angry or scared she was, a sense of joy was building within her and coursing through her veins.

This isn't good. No matter what I do, he keeps coming. I fear for my life. One wrong move and I'm done. He's determined to win now,...yet. A smile started to crawl onto her face, and without even realizing it, she began to laugh. Why Am I having so much fun? This thrill of battle? Is my heart pounding against my chest? The adrenaline thundering through my veins? This is dangerous, but I…I don't want it to end. Is this…?

Without realizing she felt herself floating in mid-air surrounded by spinning roses as Blueblood calmly guided her movements with an elegant slide. The true silver waltz?! It is so beautiful. I have never felt so close and connected with anyone before. Blueblood, you are such a tease. I'm falling for you all over again!

Without realizing it, an underhand slash struck her open. And from her wounded stomach came a bright white light that expelled the four elements launching them into the air, holding their respective regalia. Blueblood charged his horn to summon and then commanded his knights to catch the unconscious girls who were covered in sap and green goo. After catching Rarity himself, Blueblood paused to move some stray hair and clean her face, making her smile.

In front of him now was Desire back into her dragon form, pant-like crazy and holding her wound as it turned into stone. Blueblood is not too far behind.

"Please," she smiled and slowly got into the same position her Aunt adopted during her signature attack. "Not yet. Let's continue a little bit longer."

Blueblood only smiled and nodded without saying a word, gently setting the mare down before approaching Desire. "At the very least, let me grant you this wish." She finished.

"No Desire, this time I will grant yours" charging his horn, he copied the stance for Luna's signature attack. They then charged one another, and when their weapons clashed, everything froze for a moment, and then a blinding flash of white light enveloped the arena.

Recovering her senses, Desire and Scarlet found themselves resting under a cherry blossom tree as Blueblood, still in his bipedal form, admired the starry night above them before looking down at the pair with a kind smile. With blushes on their faces and too tired to ask questions, they got comfortable and rested once more before being brought to reality. There, they discovered a giant beam of light in the shape of Blueblood's cutie mark. After all this struggle, the fabric of their bra finally gave way and fell off her chest to land next to the destroyed rose sword. Their body began to turn to stone as they could only smile and look down to await the inevitable. Behind them, Blueblood slowly sheathed his weapons once more.

"That final move…what is it called?" Desire asked without looking.

"…Purge of the midsummer dream." Blueblood responded after a pause

They chuckled together at the title. "Fitting, Prince Blueblood, if I can have one final request? I wish you to put all the blame for his mess on me. She wasn't responsible whatsoever so that I would take the fall, so in exchange for this gift, just…."

"Please let my friend go."

"Please let my friend go."

They both ask simultaneously before completely turning to stone. Their body glowed a light pink as the Prince looked back at them in pity.

They tried to save their friend in their final moments, Scarlet. Desire, there might be hope for you two yet.

He smiled in satisfaction and closed his eyes, not having the energy left to block their final 'gift,' but when he opened them again, he was surprised to see that Desire had used her power to show him what transpired after losing consciousness from his last duel with his Aunt.

"Almost got me?" Luna asked sarcastically as she bought him closer into a hug, her face utterly damp in tears. "What do you mean?" The center of her armor cracked open in his cutie mark's pattern as she openly wept in joy, bringing her head down on top of his. "You already reached me even before your sword hit."

Tightening the hug, she started to nuzzle his head affectionally. "Thank you so much, Blueblood, for showing me something so beautiful." above the pair, a moonbow caused by Blueblood's strike slowly faded away. "I'm sorry, sister, but just for tonight, I'm afraid I'll have to take your title."

She laughed at her own words, and her eyes felt heavy. She sat them both down and got comfortable next to her nephew, using her wing as a blanket. "My boy, my little star pupil."

As the illusion ended and Blueblood blinked a couple of times, he chuckled warmly at what he had just witnessed. Oh, Aunt Luna, for how much you complain about Aunt Celly, you can be just as sappy as her. Don't worry. You are still the coolest.

Marshaling the rest of his strength, he saw his cousin rushing to his side in concern, making him happy as he returned to his original form. "I leave…the rest to you" And with those final words, Blueblood closed his eyes and fell unconscious from exhaustion into his cousin's hooves.
> Destiny's Plea (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stirring in his sleep, the prince slowly woke up. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes before realizing that he was currently lying on a nonexistent surface made of what looked like water in the middle of a clear day reflecting below as above merging in the distance and making it impossible to see the horizon or distinguish between the two.

Confused, he sat up and started to look around for any clues or landmarks to orient himself by.

Where the hell am I now?

"Blueblood?"

The prince was startled and jumped back when he saw Desire lying behind him, equally confused and still apparently, recovering from their duel, judging by how she was occasionally panting and holding her chest where he last struck. "What are you doing here?"

Confused, he tried to reach for his weapons only to find them missing. With suspicion, he eyed the dragon and a raised eyebrow. "You mean to tell me this isn't your doing?"

"No, in fact, you shouldn't be able to be here without help. And none of my siblings would take you here, not even Discord. He would never play such a horrible joke like this."

"What is this place anyway?"

To his growing surprise, she looked down in grief. "It is a plane of existence outside of your reality. My siblings and I all have our own. Think of it as our home universe with emphasis on home, but this place?" She looked around. "It once belonged to someone dear to all of us, one that is long gone."

"Don't lose faith, sister." In shock, Desire looked up and then around frantically for the source of that voice, one that Blueblood was more than familiar with. From the water emerged the same alicorn specter that had been aiding him so far, only this time her body was foggier and in constant changing, growing from an infant into a senior and back in a loop. "I'm still here" With a calm smile, she addressed Blueblood. "And I apologize for bringing you to my domain, your highness, but I'm afraid there is much to discuss and not a lot of…."

"DESTINE!" Wailing her eyes out, Desire stood up and launched herself into the alicorn, hugging her tight as if fearing she might disappear if she were to let go. "You're alive! Oh, thank all the heavens above! You're alive and well!…sort of, but how? Why? the last we knew you…."

Destine returned the gesture and allowed her sister to bend a little, recovering from the surprise. Blueblood decided to stay quiet as he didn't have the heart to ruin their moment.

"I'm happy to see you too, sister" Eventually, Destine ended the hug, "And nothing would make me happier than for us to catch on lost time. Unfortunately, as I said, time is of the essence, and the Prince must hear my pleas." She pointed at him. "Now that he has overcome the alluring lust and reached the halfway point of his trials, the ripples in fate are finally weak enough for us to speak properly at long last, even if only briefly." She then looked at Desire once more with a calm smile. "But I would appreciate it if you could tell our family that I'm ok."

"I will." Desire nodded a couple of times, cleared her eyes, and sniffed before looking at her again. "I will, sis."

"Uh, excuse me, I don't want to ruin this family moment, but what do you mean by 'pleas'?" Blueblood took several steps toward the reunited siblings, having waited enough for an answer.

"Of course, allow me to explain." Destine nodded and stepped forward, stomping on the water, sending out a ripple that changed everything from a clear sky to a dark void where thousands of golden strings could be seen moving and intersecting in all directions serving as the light source. "Before, I could only speak briefly due to my cage's chains and constraints, but now my prison has weakened enough and long enough for us to meet. Allow me to finally explain the true nature of these trials and why I'm so invested in you changing your preordained fate."

Now more invested, the Prince sat down and listened intently. "Yeah, I have been trying to wrap my head around that too. By all intents and purposes, shouldn't I be your enemy or something? I mean, Blueblood was supposed to be…."

"…a background character meant to serve as nothing else but a lesson in how not all that shines is gold and was fated to blend into the crowd, be forgotten, and eventually perish unloved, alone, and with only one soul to remember his memory? Yeah, that pretty much sums it up."

"Yep, I figured, no need to pull your punches or anything, Desire." The prince reply sarcastically and more than dejected by her brutal honesty. 

"I'm with him, sis. You could have at least tried to soften the blow."

"I apologize. It has been more than a millennium since I could speak properly with anyone. Furthermore, this only reinforces my plea. Though before reaching the point, a little context is in order." Destine nodded and pointed to one of the strings. "As your teacher has already explained, ever since my existence, I have been in charge of registering, mapping, and determining the flow of destiny and fate of all that exists in the universe even after its conclusion."

Isolating one single string, she brought it closer to them. "Contrary to popular belief, the supposed road in anyone's life is anything but organized. No, the true nature of destiny is that three key factors mark it. The things set in stone by actions taken in the past. The current 'here and now", where each decision you make could be described as taking one path when at a crossroad with multiple directions. Lastly, there is the dark void of the unknown road yet explored. As the mare of fate is my duty to know everything and determine where every possible route will lead you and shed light on what might happen or how you could reach a certain goal by following precise steps."

The end of the string was lost in a dark void until she illuminated it, revealing how it continued expanding, changing direction, and even splitting in various directions where one path glowed. In contrast, the others lost their lights and crumbled into dust. "Nothing is guaranteed, nothing can be predictable, and nothing is impossible. That is how destiny operates. It is the ever-moving machinery of choice and chance. Like a scale constantly exchanging its weights between the plates, a cosmic dance, random and unreadable beyond a couple of steps ahead.

but most importantly, it IS harmonious." She explained, spinning in place with her forehooves in the air in happiness. All the while, the strings continued to move and change directions creating shapes and even alluding to explosions and a starry night all around them. Generating a calming and appealing kaleidoscope of colors.

"Things were way more fun with you in charge, Desti" Desire nodded, reminiscing about the old days.

"And it means there is still hope for me yet, right? I mean, you said it yourself. Nothing is set in stone. Which means anyone can become anything, right?"

All of a sudden, the movement ceased, and the golden light dimmed down, making everything colder Desire stomped down forcefully, causing Blueblood to flinch as Destine sighed in frustration for a moment. "It was supposed to be like that." She managed to utter in barely contained anger until Desire approached and put her hand on Destiny's neck.

"Pay attention to this young Prince, for this is how everything really should be." Having calmed down, she sighed and walked towards him once more while looking at his strings, still frozen in place. "This crazy web of strings in front of you? Free will to build and march down your path and nothing already predetermined? This is how things were before that dreadful day."

Suddenly the sound of ripping paper can be heard all over the place, and the strings start to move and tear apart like crazy as they are pulled and tightened to their breaking point. "The day my book was split, the damage went beyond my current predicament. The disaster also put the stream of fate under tremendous pressure until it cracked and brought everything to a screeching, sudden stop."

Stopping the ground again, the group found themselves in the middle of a busy street with ponies going about their daily lives. "I believe you are familiar with the events before my arrival. That is not how I announced my presence, young Prince. That is what happens when I lose control of my given chore." Hearing the ripping sound once more, the Prince saw how things turned gray and left everything frozen.

"Destiny is not only the notion of a predetermined or chosen path, but we are also directly linked to the concept of time and space, since without destiny. There can't be a future to explore, present to choose, or past to record."

"Reality itself… all frozen in place?" Blueblood asked in total shock at the revelation as Destine nodded and proceeded.

"Then, as a blessing in disguise, my brother Discord, in one of his many pranks, kick-started my work once more thanks to his nature of escaping logic and brought forth the era of chaos. I don't need to remind you what that entailed then, right?" Behind them, appeared the mosaic of Discord terrorizing Equestria with screams in the background and Discord's laughter.

"The region of Discord!" Blueblood's eyes widened in horror. "But how? Without time or space…."

Both sisters give him a deadpan look, "…right Agent of the illogical, so…he resumed time then? Also, he didn't interfere during the times of the three tribes or when the pillars were around because of you?"

"In a way, although not being his opposite, each time my brother messes around with the lives of others, I move some ‘strings’ here and there to make sure to tip the balance to prevent a reign of chaos. So, when my power went out of control, he truly didn't have anything to stop him. Not until the birth of the elements of harmony, which put an end to his antics and kick-started the flow of time once more. Unfortunately, with my current condition, I could not control my powers. Instead, I was immobilized and trapped inside my stream of destiny as they cluster around me and advance incorrectly."

Everything returns to black, and the golden strings reappear from the darkness. Though, instead of forming a web, they all spiral wrap around Destine until her body is engulfed by a rope that rocketed upward within an intense golden aura while rotating clockwise. "And so, our invisible cage was formed" Illuminating her horn, she revealed her body inside the cluster of strings with her division branching in and out occasionally in an attempt to escape.

"Wait, wait, wait!" Blueblood raises his hooves at her. "You're telling me that everything happened after Discord was turned into stone…."

"Has it been predetermined? That is exactly what happened. Do you understand when I say that you were supposed to be a background character and nothing more than a lesson? That is not so much an insult as it is a prison sentence, just like Twilight is meant to be a Princess and Pinkie is meant to host parties. Everything was already decided even before you were born, a blessing for those destined for greatness, a curse for all meant to die, live in misery, or fade into the background with no hope of changing their life." She sighed and looked down in sorrow.

Blueblood looked at Desire neutrality. "Why didn't you do something? Aren't you outside the stream too? This realm you talked about. It seems like you could break this straight line anytime you wanted."

The dragoness only shook her head. "We could not even if we tried. It's one thing to try our hand at each other's job. It is entirely another to do the job. You saw what happened with Discord? He took over, and nothing changed. It just stopped, and he was and still is the best option. Not many ponies realize it, but for all the time he was in charge, time didn't flow. Everything was filled with chaos and contradictions, including how babies born years apart were now twins, and no matter what happened, nothing aged.

If I or any other of our family had tried, things might have turned the same or even worse." She defended herself. "That is why Destine is our strongest sibling. Only she could truly control the flow of time and space, and all of us, even Discord, to a minor degree is linked to her stream of fate."

"It is as she says. This cage encompasses all, your highness, even the eternal spirit. Correcting it will be like asking an ant to move an elephant by itself."

"But is it ok for this ant to try then?" He raised an eyebrow and pointed at himself.

Destine can only nod in pity. "But not as an ant. Rather, as the anomaly, you are. You are possibly the only one who can break this cage, free us and bring back free will at long last."

Charging her horn, Destine shows Blueblood's string growing stronger despite having a pitch-black section in its middle. "As we established, you were meant to be a background character with no impact in the great story, even in the end. Your death wouldn't have been anything else but a stepping stone for another plan, but now, for the first time ever, a new story is being written as we speak. In doing so, like a magnet, you slowly have allowed others to escape their determined roles and choose their own paths."

As if to demonstrate her point, other strings start to pull away from the original cluster and are drawn to Bluebloods. As they entered, the golden aura surrounded the clustered string. "But the act of going against destiny is not enough. Like gravity, the force trapping me is also doing what it can to set you back onto the path of what was supposed to happen from the start, just like what has happened with others attempting the same." She shows memories of Starlight's travels in the past and to different worlds. As a result, each time a jump occurred, her string made a U-turn to a specific point in time and diverged into a new future, but all of those strings bounced back against a golden aura that placed them back on the same track.

Only his string remained, fighting the barrier as it trembled while advancing to the edge that obstructed it.

"Wait, so all these trials are that strange barrier acting as a prison trying to force me back into what should have happened from the start?" He gulped at the implications. "It's trying to kill me as I was supposed to die in the first place?"

"Not only kill you but make your death serve the purpose of another, one specific pony to be precise. I wish for you to ascend, Blueblood." Destine pleaded to him, sounding desperate. "Because you were fated to die a unicorn, with not a friend to weep for you and only one to remember your passing, if you were to ascend, then that fate would no longer be possible, and the resulting chain reaction would break the barrier at long last." Showing a dramatization, Destine created a copy of Blueblood sprouting wings, generating an explosion that unraveled the string and made them all flow back into the earlier pattern as well as freeing Destine.

"If you become an alicorn, it will herald not only my release as a new destiny was forged beyond the original plan, but once more the concept of choice could return to everyone, so I plead and beg you, your majesty. Will you aid me in saving us all from this cage?"

After recovering from the surprise, Blueblood smiled and nodded. "You can count on me, Destine, just you wait. For no matter what happens, I will become the stallion that would reach the skies and beyond."

Pleased by his answer, Destine nodded and shed a tear. "Thank you so much, your highness. At long last, I can let myself have hope once more." Her body then started to fade. "Our time grows short. You must return to reality soon." She waved her hoof into the air. "Be careful on your path ahead, young Prince. This is what was originally fated to happen and the barrier if fighting to make it a reality."

Desire's eyes were wide in surprise at her sister's proclamation, as Blueblood could feel his body pull back and everything around them started to fade.

Blueblood could read the words 'Sharp Shooter subtly assassinates Blueblood' in thin air, but the word 'subtly' was beginning to fade. "Each trial passed will erase more of this prophecy, keeping it from coming true. But make no mistake. Fate will not give up so easily, and in its final moments, it will not care how it happens just as long as Sharp Shooter is the cause."

"Wait! I have more questions! Why me? Will the same result happen if my killer can't do it? Can I see you again?"

"We'll aid you all we can. Unfortunately, all we can do with our current power is awake the golem of your roots to aid you should it be required! For now, keep persevering, young Prince. You are halfway to your goal." Destine was encouraged while he struggled to see both spirits as if through a long tunnel.

"Blueblood! Please find me when you wake up. I want to help too and need to warn you. I messed up big time!" Desire suddenly yelled at him, "It's my sister! … Please…trust…let me help…." He couldn't make sense of anything else she was saying as everything faded to black, and the next thing he knew, Blueblood was gasping for air as he awoke back in one of the hotels' rooms.

"Blueblood!" Looking to his right, Blueblood saw Cadence with a slightly messy mane carrying a wet towel and a bucket before she promptly dropped it and ran toward him, embracing her cousin. "You are awake! Thank the stars you weren't affected!" She tightened the hug and nuzzled the side of his head as he tried to recover.

"Affected?" He looked at her confused as she ended the hug before clearing a tear from her eye and nodding. "A lot of things have happened since you passed out. There is so much I need to tell you, but it can wait a bit. The important thing is that you're back, now let's get you something to eat. You must be starving."

Indeed, as his cousin said those words, the prince held his stomach as he felt particularly famished, and the organ in question made its displeasure known with constant growling. Other than that, he could also detect a thin film of sweat all over his body and the faint scent of body odor, clueing him in on how much he needed a bath.

"Candy, how long was I asleep?" The question made her pause and sighed in pity before looking back at him. "One week."

"That long, eh?" He sighed too and looked down as she nodded. "You spent so much energy and magic in that last duel that I was afraid of moving you too much. Luckily the hotel had a doctor on site who told us you only needed rest. I have been tending to you ever since."

"Oh, Candy, thank you" He smiled and wanted to hug her again but refrained from doing so after remembering his condition. "Once I take a bath, remind me to give you a hug."

"Duly noted, and it was nothing, Bluey. I'm sure you would have done the same for me if our roles were reversed" She chuckled and nodded once, hiding the twitch of her nose, not doubt trying her best to be polite.

"Indeed" He nodded once before his expression turned grim. "But what about your kingdom? Oh, my god, how are the other Princes and Princesses! Are they okay? Are they affected too? Or our aunts? I'm grateful and sorry I forced you into cleaning up my mess, but…."

She silenced him by shushing and placing her hoof on his mouth. "As I said, there is plenty to discuss, but regarding The Crystal Empire. As much as I wish I could go help Shiny, there are more pressing matters to attend to." She approached the curtain and grabbed one edge with her magic, "And I just didn't have the heart for you to wake up to this image."

Pulling the curtains open, Blueblood's eyes widen in surprise and fear when he notices how the sky is all wrong, and it is currently showing both night and day at the same time.
> Pressing Matters (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After cleaning himself and being presentable again, Blueblood met with the rest of the group in the lobby. Cadence was kind enough to gather everyone as soon as he woke up.

After the initial greetings and picking something to eat, everyone started bringing Blueblood up to speed on what had happened in the sky and the world in brief.

"The entire world...is asleep?" Blueblood repeated, shocked as Cadence nodded.

"Or at least that is our best guess. Soon after you petrified Desire, all of the guards in the hotel snapped out of her control. They didn't waste any time before starting some damage control, calming everyone down and making sure that everyone was ok" She extended her wing to the four elements who still refused to make eye contact with Blueblood and instead kept their gazes firmly on the ground. Something that hasn't changed ever since they first saw him awake. All minus Pinkie, who still squeezed and hugged him once she saw he was alright but was somehow less energetic than usual.

Cadence waited for them to speak, but all four mares remained silent, making things tense and awkward. Rarity even copied Fluttershy and put all her mane in front of her face and refused to let anyone see her.

"Ah…T-thanks to AJ and the rest, we managed to return things to some level of control, and luckily, nobody was injured." The Princess of Love resumed once she realized that they would not speak.

"At first, things went smoothly with the guests mostly being shaken up and a bit drowsy after waking up from their trance." Skystar continued. "But then when a group of guards came back from scouting the perimeter, we discovered that all the citizens of Las Pegasus were soundly asleep, in their homes or littering the streets inside giant flower petals."

"We concluded that this is happening worldwide. When we couldn't communicate with our homes, and a team that we sent ahead to scout out further returned with news that the same was happening to our nations." Hestia added, "Whatever that weed did, it has placed all the world in a deep sleep Blueblood. We were spared because Desire put us in the epicenter of all this mess."

"If it was a spell, it is exceptionally potent to override our aunt's subconscious desire to move their celestial bodies." Cadence pointed up into the sky, where it was both day and night. "With things being tense as they were and not wanting to cause any panic or move too much until we had a plan, we fortified and turned the Rose Palace into an improvised base and began to plan accordingly."

"The first one is using the elements," Bicep interjects before looking at the still embarrassed mares in the room. "Put plainly, use the same logic used to reform Discord. Let Desire out, demand some answers and cooperation, in exchange for negotiating the terms of her sentence and reducing it, but unfortunately."

He stopped wanting to see if any of the mares replied as Pinkie looked around, caught off guard.

"Oh me? Yeah, we can't use the elements since we are not all present at the moment." the pink Mare finally explained, with the other three nodding in agreement. "And we tried more than once too!"

"And since two of them are out, the school of friendship is covered in weed, and of course…how Desire was turned in the first place." Pharynx listed before pointing at Blueblood. "It looks like you are the only one that can free that overgrown flower" Taking a glance at Llamrei, the Prince saw how his sword was still shining. Briefly, a low purple glow reminded him how he still had Twilight's magic inside him.

"But that doesn't make any sense" Blueblood looked back at the group, specifically at the four mares. "The elements are not exactly a system that requires six participants, and they can aid others if the need arises. Like when they helped my Aunt Celestia when Aunt Luna…well, when that happened, or how you got the elements in the first place. I'm living proof that only one pony can wield them in an emergency. Why is it now putting conditions on their use?"

Pinkie shrugged and shook her head while the others remained quiet, much to Cadence's disappointment, who decided to answer for them again. "The elements are a mysterious and unusual force, Blueblood. Nobody has ever fully understood how they work, and to this day, they were only gathered once before. Perhaps the elements themselves have grown and become wiser over time. Maybe Twilight was closer to understanding them. Who knows? But as things are now, you are the appointed wielder."

Blueblood glanced at his swords before looking at the four mares once more. "No, that can't be right. I don't even know how to use them. When I fought Desire, everything happened so fast. I was mostly moving on instinct and adrenaline, and by the time I managed to calm down, Desire was already turning to stone. I'm not sure how I sealed her in the first place or even if I can release her the same way. Heck, I'm not even technically the wielder. Twilight is. She only lent me some of her magic, so the elements probably thought I was her." He then came up with an idea and lifted his sword with both hooves, presenting it to the remaining elements. "Maybe it's the sword! Here I can lend you Llamrei so you can channel the magic, and then..."

He extended and offered the weapon, but the mares finally reacted and, while flinching, took a step back, much to his confusion and Cadence's annoyance.

"That's not how it works, partner!" AJ quickly said, lifting her hooves in a placating gesture.

Once he retracted the sword, she sighed and tapped her head. "That varmint Desire did a number on our noggins."

The others, including Pinkie, agreed, "We might not know much, we know this to use the elements, you need to concentrate and stay calm, and right now, that is something we can't do."

"Oh." The realization hit the Prince like a sack full of bricks, finally getting her point. So scared and confused he was when Cadence showed him the sky, he overlooked how his friends were probably dying from embarrassment. Heck, if he weren't so concerned for others, he would be in the same booth with them to a degree. He confessed of being a human and finding the woman of every species attractive to the four winds.

And I'm asking for their help as if nothing happened, ignoring their feelings completely. Dear God, am I an asshole.

Putting his sword away, he sighed and looked down. "But I don't even know how to use them."

Seeing him down, Cadence eyed Blueblood with concern before glancing at the four mares, silently pleading with them to say something.

Looking at him in distress, Fluttershy reacted and said, "We can teach you."

That earns the attention of everyone. "I-I mean, it's not that hard, right? Twilight taught us how to free and re-seal Discord in one morning."

"Oh yeah, I remember that." Pinkie brought her hoof to her chin.

"You are right, Fluttershy, Don't worry, partner. Twilight told us more or less how to harness them." AJ spoke up. "And Fluttershy is right. The trick is nothing out of the ordinary, we can teach you how it works in less than an hour, and if that doesn't work, m-maybe we could." She swallowed the lump in her throat and looked away with a blush. Making Cadence sigh in irritation as AJ continued, "m-maybe try together with our pieces," The farmer finally managed to say, making Blueblood feel bad as he knew how much she was struggling to keep a straight face.

"Thanks, Applejack" The Prince suddenly noticed the absence of a particular spirit of chaos in the room. "Hey, wait, what about Discord? Where is he anyway? I remember seeing him next to you, Candy" He turned to Cadence. "Why not ask him? As ironic as this might sound, he is the safer option."

Cadence shook her head and stared down, lamenting much to the Prince's dread. "Perhaps he might, but we haven't seen or heard anything from him ever since I begged him to help my Shiny it the Crystal Empire, which was most likely where Desire struck first, which he agreed to do after making a gardener joke, summoning a landscapers uniform complete with a weed wacker and poofed away. I still hope everything is fine, and he merely has his hands full. I mean, his sister is supposed to be as strong as he is and was at the moment with how much desire and want she hoarded, so he is probably dealing with a very stubborn sentient weed or a spell even he can't just poof away or something like that." She weakly chuckled before her concern turned into a glare. "Because if I find out, he fixes things right away and just left when everyone fell asleep...I swear I will hunt him down to the ends of the world if I have to, and I…!"

"Cadence," Blueblood stopped her and grabbed her left forehoof in an attempt to calm her down. "Everything will be fine, Discord might be a prankster, but even he knows when a joke goes too far, he won't do that."

"Yeah, Discord might be unpredictable and loves to joke, but his days of being mean are way behind him. He would never harm his friends like that." Fluttershy defended as well. "I trust him fully."

Thanking them both, she complied and nodded with a heavy sigh before starting some breathing exercises.

"Anyway, so Discord is a no-go," Blueblood sighed in frustration. "I would have preferred another way, but you are right. My swords are the next and probably the only option left. After Desire spoke with me while I was asleep and told me she wanted to help."

"What?" Everyone questioned him in complete shock as he nodded once

"Better hold to your seats, everyone, because I too have one heck of a story to tell." He glanced at AJ and remembered her advice, and then regarded the group, doing his best to gauge their mood. "It will probably be best if this doesn't leave this room."

Everyone started looking at one another with mixed emotions before looking at Blueblood.

"How are you sure that happened, and it wasn't a dream?" Prince Bicep voiced what the various royals were thinking as they nodded in agreement.

"I was counting on Discord backing me up once I mentioned his other sister's name, but for now, I can only ask you to trust me or at the very least give me the benefit of the doubt until Desire corroborates my story."

His words weren't enough to convince the group entirely, but Cadence chose that moment to step up before things could get out of hand. "I'll believe you no matter what you tell us, Bluey."

Everyone looked at her as she smiled at her cousin. " We have a dealt with crazier things in the past, and everyone here already had the misfortune of meeting another member of Discord's family. Plus, there is the fact that you woke up while everyone else is still dreaming. That makes me believe you didn't get trapped or even went to sleep per se."

That helped improve the mood a little as Blueblood nodded and smiled at Cadence. "Thanks, cousin, and don't worry, since we are already planning on releasing Desire anyway, I'm sure she will vouch for me the second she gets free."

And so the next hour was spent with Blueblood trying to explain how Discord belonged to a group comprised of seven siblings that, to his good fortune, were confirmed to exist with myths and legends that the other rulers knew and matched the descriptions he gave. How the seventh one got trapped in a mighty cage for over a millennium, and the actions of Desire allowed for them to interact and convince Desire to lend a hand too. As she, too, missed her sibling.

By the end of the explanation, everyone in front of Blueblood stood deep in thought, weighing the pros and cons of aiding this new sibling, believing his story, and mostly thinking about if they should intervene.

"Are you sure it will be wise to help that spirit escape? What if she was put in prison for a reason? Maybe she was even worse than Discord." Pharynx questioned.

"Even if that is the case, her powers are severely diminished, and she has more than paid for crimes, if there were any. Plus, it could be beneficial, having not one but two of endless owing us a favor, don't you think?"

That caught everyone's attention. "If even Discord, the spirit of misfortune and chaos, keeps his word. His siblings, who operate on more logical premises, would be far easier to negotiate with, don't you think? I'm aware that this is a cheap tactic, and I would rather not use it, but if it helps you put your mind at ease, then we could use this opportunity to show our families that we mean our intentions and have the drive and power to achieve goals they could only dream off."

They pondered his words and ultimately agreed, liking the idea of a spirit owning them a favor and officially forming the Society of Heirs.

With that out of the way, the meeting was concluded, and everyone went their separate ways to relax and prepare mentally before Blueblood tried his hoof at releasing Desire.

After asking him to wait for them in one of the indoor gardens, the four mares of harmony were chatting in a waiting room, calming their nerves before seeing the Prince once more. Still, their conversation stopped when Cadence marched into the room.

"Girls," Cadence announced, getting their attention, "A moment please?" She suggested, but her neutral expression and authority in her voice gave the elements the idea that she wasn't exactly asking them for permission as she sat on a sofa in front of them.

"Princess, I don't think…." AJ began, but the Princess lifted one of her hoofs to stop the farmer.

"I'm not here to shame, judge or order you around. I'm only here for some answers." Cadence took a deep breath before addressing them calmly. "Contrary to what others may think, I'm not a pure and innocent princess. I know what lust is, I know how it is a normal part of what love represents, and most importantly, right now, I know the difference between that and real affection."

They all look at the ground feeling particularly uncomfortable about the subject. "Oh, for the love of my aunt! Enough with the pity party already." she angrily stomped her hoof. "Yes, it was embarrassing. Yes, Desire exposed your primal wishes, and yes, it is hard to move on. But we are all grown mares, can't we…?"

"Is not that simple, princess!" AJ snapped back with a glare and an intense blush. "You wouldn't understand. We didn't just spill the beans. When we became that…thing, our heads merged."

"The things I saw," Rarity shivered. "There are things friends shouldn't know about each other. And even less so suddenly," She held her head in embarrassment. "Princess, I know you are trying to help, but Applejack is right. This is more complicated than a personal confession when our emotions combine, even if we try to focus only on one thing. I don't even know if what we are feeling right now is us or what was left over from that unstable stalker."

"Yeah, I mean, I, really, REALLY liked Bluey before, but after Desire and Scarlet made us combine with them. I'm not sure if all those 'really's are' are completely mine," Pinkie continued.

Taking a glance, the Princess noticed how Fluttershy remained quiet and kept staring at the ground. Cadence knew from experience that she needed to step lightly here. One wrong move, and the shy pegasus would only retreat further into herself and start speaking barely audible gibberish.

With a tired sigh, she closed her eyes and nodded a couple of times. "You are right, and I apologize. I wouldn't understand what that would feel like. I wasn't there, and that is all the more reason for why this needs to be talked out."

The girls look at her in curiosity. "As I say, I'm not here to judge. It is natural. It is a part of life, and if treated correctly. It can be a beautiful part."

She smiled calmly at them. "I can detect when someone influences another's emotions, and what's more, I can dispel any magic that might be at work on tampering with them." She pointed at her horn. "So if you would permit me? Allow me to purge any residual manipulations that might still be there. I promise that whatever is left would be you and only you," She offered to extend a hoof at them.

They all exchanged glances and thought about it until Rarity spoke, "And…you would be ok with us talking about 'that' with you?"

Cadence smiled and nodded once. "Come on, girls, none of us here are soulless golems. We are ponies! Living beings that breathe, eat, and of course have urges!"

She took a glance at Rarity. "Some more than others"

"Wha? NO! Pr-Princess, what I meant back then…! I didn't…that wasn't!… It was literal, literal!" Rarity stumbled with her words, shaking her head rapidly, "I didn't sleep with him, not like that." She kept defending herself with a tomato-red face.

The group of mares couldn't help but laugh a little at her reaction, and after a while, Rarity joined in with a chuckle of her own, lighting the mood.

"Anyway, my point is that Desire messed with your heads. She made you think in a way you would normally never do. And like Pinkie said, now you are unsure if what you are feeling is real or just the emotions of a stalker. So now that my cousin is back, we can all clear the air and put all of our heads back in order, including his."

Their eyes widened at the suggestion, but before anyone could protest, she raised an eyebrow. "He is just as much of a victim as you four were. All during the fight, he only wanted to accept your feelings but didn't know if they were yours or Scarlet's." She explained while her ears pulled back flat on her head in pity. "Do you not think he deserves some answers too? Now more than ever with how vulnerable he is at the moment?"

She stood up and approached a wall window looking over the garden where Blueblood sat on a bench waiting for them.

"So much so that others might step up to console him if you take too long?"

The sudden comment catches their attention as they rush to her side and look in horror at how the princesses Sierra, Nefertiti, and Skystar surrounded the Prince and tried to calm him down while at the same time, he talked to them about his problems.

"W-What are they doing?" AJ commented feeling angry and envious and not understanding why.

"What you should have done from the start. Talk with him and clear the air." Cadence eyed the mares before approaching the door. "I'm not going to  tell you what you should or shouldn't do. You are getting jealous over nothing. Just know that if you decide to continue like this and if you refuse to talk, know that they will, and eventually, there will be something, and by the time that happens, you will no longer be a part of it."

With that, Cadence left, leaving the mares frozen in place, glancing between the door and the window where Blueblood was still chatting with the other princesses. Things became tenser as their eyes focused on Nefertiti and Sierra, who were beginning to get overly familiar and touchy with Blueblood with him, not realizing or perhaps not caring.

"Garsh darn it! She is right!" AJ finally yelled and rushed to the door looking for Cadence to accept her offer. The other mares quickly nodded in agreement and went after her. None of them realized how what they saw was an illusion cast by Cadence.

By the time they reached the garden, the other Princesses were gone, and only Cadence and Blueblood remained, rather than questioning their disappearance. AJ decided to take advantage of their absence and get straight to the point.

"Sugarcube, I know this is hardly the time to talk about it, but with how problems seem to keep piling up, we might as well get this out in the open already," AJ started with some heat in her cheeks, refusing to make eye contact with Blueblood giving him all the clues he needed for where this was heading, especially with how Rarity and Fluttershy were in a similar position and Pinkie continued to be the more relaxed yet not as upbeat as usual.

"I think I understand what you are saying." Blueblood nodded and stopped to turn and look at the four mares. "And you don't need to say anything, girls, what happened with Desire, wasn't you…It was, but it wasn't you or your fault and…."

"No, darling, we certainly need to discuss this." Rarity interrupted him stomping the floor. "Manipulated or not, we bared our souls and spoke our minds without a filter!" She got agitated with a big blush on her face. Even Pinkie began to blush at the memory. "Do you have any idea how embarrassing was that? To yell to the four winds our deepest desires like that…that…ruffian made us do?"

"We know you want to spare our feelings, Blue." Fluttershy shyly approached, hiding her face in her mane. "And we are touched. You don't want us to feel uncomfortable, but if we don't talk about what happened, it…it would only make things worse." She looked away in fear. "I don't want us to live with this tension between us…not again." She barely whispered the last part primarily to herself as the rest of the girls stayed quiet.

Not sure what to do, Blueblood looked to Cadence for help, though she only shook her head. "I can't tell you what to do, cousin. If you want my advice? then the only thing I will ask you: What is your heart telling you to do?"

After staying silent for a minute and observing how the girls kept staring at the ground or Pinkie waiting for his answer, he finally sighed and looked back at Cadence. "I want you to be here too, Candy. There are subjects to discuss that are long overdue…for all of us."

That caught the girl's attention as Cadence smiled in pride at Blueblood as he continued. "And I can't think of anyone better to help than the princess of love."

Nodding once, she put her hoof on his back and nodded. "I will be right by your side, Bluey."

"Thank you, let's go find a more private place then; I don't want anyone to hear us."

"Agreed," All the mares replied in unison.

"In that case, why don't we head to…?" AJ began but was interrupted

"Prince Blueblood, a moment, please" A pegasus royal guard with black fur and red mane landed and started to remove his helmet. with the armor clasped firmly to his intricately decorated chest plate, the guard flew towards them and saluted

"Oh, for the love of…!" AJ contained her frustration and took a deep breath before letting the stallion speak.

"Captain Black Sparrow, acting captain of the all available royal guard and I suppose pony in charge of Equestria during your absence."

"Pony in charge? But what about Cadence?" Blueblood turned to Cadence, who immediately shook her head

"I can no longer be placed in charge, Bluey. When I was crowned the new Princess of the Crystal Empire, I abdicated my seat in Equestrian hierarchy and became no more than a foreign dignitary, an ambassador if you will."

"Correct," Sparrow nodded in affirmation. "And with Princess Celestia, Luna and Twilight indisposed, the next royal in the line of succession is you, sir. For better or worse, you ARE the ipso facto new ruler of Equestria, which brings me to a subject that I need to brief you on in private"

"I can't believe it, Ruler of Equestria…me? Oh boy, this…this is happening too fast, so many things are happening at once" Having difficulty breathing, Blueblood needs to kneel for a moment with the mares around him trying to help him relax.

"Could you please give the poor stallion some room?" AJ glared at Captain Sparrow, "The poor fellow is already under a lot of stress as it is, and now you come here and drop that bomb on him too! Geez, sugar cube, read the room!"

" I apologize for putting this on your shoulders so suddenly, your highness, but this is important and needs to be discussed as soon as possible."

"I…I get it." Blueblood nodded once and gently pushed the mares away as he looked at the captain.

"This must be of great urgency if it can't wait." 

"Actually it can if you really need a moment, but it would be best if discuss as fast as possible"  

"In that case could you let me process this briefly before? I will be with you right after."

"Understood," Sparrow acknowledged his Prince with a salute, "Whenever you are ready, I will be with my platoon in the meeting room, east of the building." And with that, he turned around crisply, donned his helmet, and flew away.

"Well…that just happened. The planet is asleep, fate is asking me for help, only I can wake up the manifestation of Desire, and top it off, I just now discovered that I'm also in charge of Equestria, and it's not even noon yet." Blueblood could only chuckle at himself and hold his head in an attempt to relax before looking at his friends. "Mondays, Am I right?"

"Are you ok, sugar cube?" AJ tried to approach him with the rest of the mares, more than concerned about how he was laughing.

"Who me? Yeah, I'm fine. I'm fine, just having a tiny and not concerning case of hyperventilation. I am probably teetering on the edge of having a nervous meltdown, though. " He replied between chuckles, increasing their concern as he stood up. "Nothing worth considering! Welp! Since my day is full, better start working before somebody tells me the moon is falling out of the sky!" He tries to leave, but the mares will having none of that as they all hugged him tightly.

"Ok, I heard enough. Take it from an expert. You are in no way ready to deal with anything right now."

"But what about Desire and saving the world?" Blueblood argued

"Can and WILL wait, darling. This is not up for discussion. You are taking a break, and that is final, darling!" Rarity ordered with finality.

"That goes double from me, cousin. So you better accept your fate."

"But Equus needs me! The planet is in distress, and from the look of things I…."

"Please, Blueblood," Fluttershy stared at him with pleading eyes and a nervous smile. "No matter what this mess is, we will deal with it together, slow and steady." She extended a hoof at him. "We don't need to rush anything, so please listen to us. Let us help you relax."

Getting lost in her eyes, the Prince couldn't think of a rebuttal and finally sighed in surrender "…ok, you win, one last break, but then it's back to work."

"Yay," Pinkie tightened the group hug. "I know exactly what you need. We will need Rarity's fainting sofa, a milkshake, and a bunch of butterflies."

"What?" Blueblood looked at her, confused by that strange list.

"Trust me, Bluey, you are going to love it! Be right back," And with that, the pink Mare vanished, leaving behind a perplexed Prince blinking as the mares refused to let him go.
> Clearing The Air (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After calming down enough with a butterfly treatment, the prince was ready to talk with the mares again, so resuming their original plan, they found a reasonably secluded section in the garden. After ensuring that there wasn't anyone nearby, the group formed a circle and started the inevitable conversation.

"Ok, then who wants to go first?" Cadence asked the group as it was some session, and AJ raised her hoof

"I will start" She then looked at Blueblood. "Partner, what can I say that I didn't already confess while that varmit was messing with my head?"

"AJ, whatever you felt back then was Desire forcing her will on you." Blueblood tried to console her, but she only shook her head.

"Na, partner, it wasn't her. Sure she manipulated me into confessing it, but I truly meant every word I said back then. Before I met you, I knew next to nothing about colt friends, relationships, or all that mushy stuff Rarity's familiar with."

"Hey!" Rarity exclaimed in discontent, but Cadence calmed her down.

"Let her speak her mind, Rarity." Cadence intercepted before looking at AJ. "And now that she no longer is manipulating your emotions, how do you feel, Applejack?"

"Much better, like I'm complete somehow. Don't worry, partner. You don't need to give me an answer or anything. I want to get that off my chest. Yes, I find you attractive. Yes, I would like the idea of us dating but not now, and not like this." She tapped the floor. "The last thing I want is ruining our friendship when we have barely got to know each other with this." She looked at Blueblood with concern.

"So will it be ok if we don't do anything about this, don't put any labels on it, and just let things happen naturally?" She extended her hoof at Blueblood. "I promise there will be no strings attached. I don't want to make things awkward because of what Desire did."

"Sounds good to me as long as we can put at the very least one label on us," He gripped her hoof and completed the gesture. "Friends."

AJ laughed and nodded. "Deal" She shook his hoof and separated before AJ took a deep breath. "Wow, talk about a huge load lifted from my shoulders there. Thank you, partner."

Cadence nodded and smiled, pleased by the development, before looking at the other mares. "Who wants to go next?"

"Oh, me, me next" Pinkie bounced and lifted her hoof, making Cadence chuckle. 

"Ok, Pinkie go ahead, tell us how you feel?"

"Super-duper happy, actually." She replied immediately with a big grin before adopting a more calm and serene smile while looking at Blueblood. "Even more since you gave me that hug, Bluey."

"A…hug?" Blueblood repeated with a raised eyebrow as Pinkie nodded rapidly.

"Oh yeah, you are an incredible hugger Bluey, I had lots of fun baking with you, but when you hugged me goodbye, it felt different but in a good way. Like one of my Pinkies senses, it was tingly, but it was from the inside, and it was here" She brought her forehooves to her chest. "Don't worry, silly! We don't need to start dating or anything. I don't even know how to make a date yet!" She confessed with a shrug.

"That…that's okay, Pinkie," The Prince managed to reply, still not entirely sure he was following her logic. "So…like Applejack, you would prefer it if we didn't think too hard about what happened and…."

"Oh yeah! I think we are all thinking about it." She looked at the rest of the group. "Right, girls?"

Rarity nodded immediately, but Fluttershy looked away in thought for a moment before nodding with a small smile. The motion didn't escape Cadence's gaze, who regarded the pegasus with intrigue before a smile of her own started to form.

"Yeah, let's be all friends and think about what happens after another one of our adventures!" Pinkie brought everyone into a group hug.

"Works for me, sugarcube."

"Agreed, darling, I believe it's for the best, and Applejack beat me to it. We might not have started on the best hoof, but I want us to start again and won't let this adventure ruin something before it even begins." Rarity pointed out as they ended the hug.

"Agreed" Blueblood nodded once as they broke the hug.

"Ah, but that bit of Blueblood and me sleeping together?" Rarity reminded the group with a big blush, "One: It was literal. We fell asleep on my couch and spooned a little subconsciously! That is all that happened, so don't go around thinking otherwise." She started with finality pointing at everyone. "And two: We will NOT speak about it again, got it?" She demanded, and everyone nodded as Pinkie made a Pinkie promise.

"I'm glad that this was resolved so easily. I was worried that things would tense between us for a while there." Blueblood let out a sigh of relief before looking at Pinkie, still confused. "From a hug? That affected you so much?"

Pinkie nodded once more. "It sure did! You made me feel like a real mare." The way she said that last part sounded almost like she was singing. The prince remained confused but decided to only shrug and chalk it up to Pinkie having fun.

After that exchange, Cadence looked at the last remaining mare "Fluttershy, is there anything else you would like to add?"

"Well, I agree that he can give pretty nice hugs, Princess."

"He sure can, but that is not what I meant, Flutters."

"I know," Fluttershy confessed before sighing in shame and looking down, "But I'm not sure how to say this in words."

The eyes of the princess of love twinkled in anticipation as Blueblood looked at the pegasus in surprise before taking a step closer. "Fluttershy?"

He was about to take another step, but she lifted one wing in front of him and shook her head, asking him not to come closer. "Blueblood, what happened with Desire? the things I said, when our minds merged…everything was happening so fast, it was scary, confusing, and somehow liberating." She tried to explain, shaking her head once more. "By Celestia, I don't know how to explain it, but somehow that experience made me feel more comfortable, and…may be more confident in expressing myself?"

"It's okay, Fluttershy. As Applejack said, we can take this one step at a time and stay friends for now. No need to overthink this and try to solve it right away." Blueblood offered

"Yeah, Fluttershy! Don't overthink it. Let's just have fun and laugh it off." Pinkie suggested flopping onto Blueblood's back, yet the pegasus shook her head. 

"I wish it were that simple, but we all know this…." She points at all of them "…will not be enough." She then focused on Blueblood "And you are still dodging the real issue, deciding just to agree or suggesting what we want to hear instead of telling us what is in your mind."

"What? Wha-What are you talking about, Fluttershy? I'm fully onboard with Applejack's plan?"

"Are you?" She gave him a deadpan expression and raised an eyebrow. "Or are you just relieved that she offered a way to put off the real issue?"

The prince froze, letting the mares know that Fluttershy hit the nail on the head. Fluttershy sighed in disappointment. "That is what I thought and was afraid of too."

"Darling, is there something you wanted to tell us?" Rarity look at Blueblood in surprise.

"Yeah, we already had our turn, but Fluttershy's right. We almost forgot to ask what was in your mind…hey, you nodded and agreed with AJ right away, ducking that conversation, come to think of it." Pinkie exclaimed in realization

"No, I didn't!" Blueblood quickly defended himself, "I loved it the moment I heard it, and well…I was glad I wasn't losing terrific friends. I had this speech ready and everything about how I find you all attractive not only because of your looks but also your personalities, how I'm still conflicted somehow, how I don't know how to start, and…."

"Enough, Blueblood!" Fluttershy cut him off before he could continue, "You are doing it again. You're trying to convince yourself that you don't matter, and it would be better if you only go with the flow no matter what we decide. I know you are not doing it on purpose, but that is exactly what is happening here." She pointed accusingly at him with a stern yet sorrowful gaze

"I… I'm sabotaging myself?" He looked down in self-reflection, questioning if he was truly doing that. He didn't need to look to see how Fluttershy nodded and approached him.

"All of us have plenty to talk about, and I can't thank you enough for your effort. Putting all of us and our feelings before yours, but I can't accept it if it costs your say in the matter, and that is why, before us, I think you and Cadence need to talk first, just the two of you."

"I…y-yeah," Blueblood finally agreed without looking her in the eye as he closed his eyes. "By the stars, I have no idea what the hell is going on with me, but I…I need to talk about this with Cadence." Blueblood finally looks up at his cousin, who smiles calmly at him. "Do you have any idea what is happening?"

"Oh, I have a theory or two" Cadence rolled her eyes cryptically, looking away with a smile.

Fluttershy grabbed his chin and brought him back to look at her. " I hope this helps a little" She got closer to his ear and once more left him speechless with one single whispered sentence. "You don't need to say anything or rush to any answer. Know this. I have feelings for you, Blueblood, genuine and honest feelings of affection. I'm sure now. Nothing would make me happier than being a part of your herd. But only if and when you are ready to start one. Listen to your heart, and don't be afraid to follow it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with loving more than one mare or any other creature. I would never dream of getting in the way of true love and happiness."

Taking a step back, Fluttershy smiled calmly at the now bright red prince as she chuckled a little.

"Blueblood turned into Big Mac!" Pinkie exclaimed in complete shock.

"Oh, my," Rarity, despite not hearing it, knew that whatever Fluttershy said was intense, forcing her to fan herself as she had some heat in her cheeks.

"Fluttershy, what in tarnation did you just say?!" AJ demanded, shocked at what happened.

"Something I hope helps put his mind in order." She nuzzles the side of the prince's face. "No matter what you decide, I will always be your friend. All I ask you is, please don't jump to any rash decisions. You might regret it later on." She warned him and let him go before marching away. "Let go, girls. Blueblood needs a moment with Cadence now."

She didn't wait for a reply and kept marching as the other mares soon followed when Cadence nodded and motioned for them to leave to have a moment with her cousin. AJ glances between the Princess, Fluttershy, and the still blushing Blueblood before galloping after Fluttershy. "No, seriously, Fluttershy, what did you tell him?!"

"Cadence," Blueblood finally found his voice once more as Cadence giggled a little and placed a wing over his back to help him relax.

"Yes, cousin?"

"I think I have several dozen million questions I need to discuss with you."

"That's perfectly understandable, Blueblood." She nodded and nudged him to follow. "Let's go for a walk. That always helps me clear my thoughts."

He nodded a couple of times and followed quickly behind.

Meanwhile, in the middle of an uncharted frozen tundra.

Making her way inside an igloo, Commander Hurricane removed the hood from her face and tossed some dry logs into an improvised chimney, keeping the fire going before looking at two unicorn mares draped in matching thick sweaters exactly like the pegasus was wearing, still resting peacefully inside giant petal bulbs that sprung up overnight, wrapping them both up. The sword marks are still present as Hurricane sighed and prodded the minor scratches she managed to make.

Poking her head outside their refuge, she noticed how a storm was approaching in the distance and, after checking their rations, concluded that she officially ran out of time and was out of options, save one. Taking one last glance at the two mares, Hurricane huffed in frustration and pulled out a crystal ball from her backpack to make a call.

Please, old gods, tell me I'm just paranoid here. Tell me nothing has happened to my shooting star.

Thankfully, familiar ponies managed to pick her up her call, only for her to confirm her suspicions.

"Hurricane?" The mares ask worryingly.

"Hey Platinum, Pudding, sorry for calling so suddenly, but…."

"Thank the old gods. You are okay. Please tell me your companions are conscious." The princess asked, making Hurricane pause and sigh in defeat, moving to the side so Platinum could see the state of the two royal guards.

"Oh…so it even reached you then," Platinum commented after grappling with their situation, before moving to the side and allowing the commander to see outside the hallways of the castle where ponies were in the same predicament.

"You as well, eh?" Pudding admitted and let them see how the same thing was happening in the dragon kingdom.

"What the heck is going on?!" Hurricane turned back. "One moment, I'm well on my way to reaching the ruins while tagging along with these two. The next, I wake up with them inside a floral arrangement. Sunny and Moony stop doing their jobs! And now you are saying this is happening worldwide?! Who did this?! Please tell me our kids are with you."

To her increasing dread, Platinum shook her head. "I'm sorry, Hurricane, I don't understand it completely either, but it appears that Celly and Lulu got trapped by yet another sibling of Lady D."

"Yep, saw it happening and everything," Pudding confirmed. "While collecting more history books, I saw one pony with a goofy smile laying in the ground moments before a puff of pollen swirled around him and put him to sleep before a giant flower ate him."

"Great, just great," Hurricane replied sarcastically. "And I was so close to reaching Alicornia."

"You're almost there? Hurricane, what's stopping you? If we excuse them for being trapped, you have a mission to finish." Platinum reminded her.

"Yeah, I know it sucks, but Dede is counting on us. We gave her our world," Pudding adds.

"Look at them, you two!" She pointed at the two guards. "I'm close, but I'm still one day away from the ruins, and we are in the middle of nowhere with a storm coming and no landmarks. If I leave, these two will be buried alive in snow, and it will take me weeks to find the igloo again IF I'm lucky. I might as well kill them right now if I do that."

They all sighed in frustration. "By the stars, if only we had one golem." Pudding lamented moments before all of their eyes widened when they saw the image of Hurricane shake, and she felt a rumble from outside her shelter.

Acting quickly, she ducked outside.

"What is happening? Hurricane, are you ok?" Platinum tries to look past the entrance.

"Sweet merciful gods," The two hear Hurricane yell from outside

"Don't leave us in suspense, hurry, what was that rumble?" Pudding tried and failed to do the same as Platinum. Moments later, Hurricane re-entered with a big grin. "Girls, you are not gonna a believe this."

"What? What would we not believe?" Pudding repeated, curious as Hurricane took the crystal ball and moved outside once more. A looming equine figure stood over them, blocking the sun.

"It's a golem! A real one! Wow, I didn't think there was one that big," Pudding exclaimed in excitement.

"But how? That is impossible! As I recall, the last one was deactivated after fulfilling King Cosmos' final order. How can one still be moving?" Platinum whispered in shock

"Don't know, don't care right now." Hurricane turned the ball around. "Looks like we got ourselves a new toy, girls. And this one would speed things along quite nicely." She showed them a tablet made of stone and metal with ancient ruins etched on its surface. "Keep me posted if you find something else about this global nap time, ok? The last thing I want is to give those two soldiers inside a heart attack."

"Will do" Platinum nods once. "Until then, take care out there and be careful."

"The castle is almost complete too," Pudding mentioned. "Looks like Equestria will find out about Princess Terra soon."

As the storm finally fell upon the commander and her companions, the ground trembles at the march of a massive equine golem whose stomach opens and collects the improvised shelter pulling everyone to safety before standing up once more, leaving a giant hole in the ground and starting marching away toward the ruins of what once was a thriving civilization.
> Love, Friendship, And Duties (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Having finally managed to calm down, Blueblood and Cadence grabbed some cider to drink and retreated to a balcony so they could have privacy and try to put the Prince's mind back in order.

Seeing Blueblood staring into his cup, the Princess of love decided to break the ice and looked out at the distorted sky. "It can be scary, isn't it?"

Breaking free from his thoughts, Blueblood looked back at her. "The ways of the heart, and the idea of love." Smiling, Cadence looked back at him once more. "It can happen at any moment and in the most unexpected of ways. You can never predict when, how, or even who you will fall in love with. It just happens, and it can be scary at times, isn't it?"

"…Terrifying." Blueblood nodded and looked back at his drink again. "And it can even make you feel ashamed of yourself."

"Hey," Cadence used her wing to catch his chin and slowly made him look her in the eyes. "No self-pity talk here, ok? There is nothing to be ashamed about falling in love."

"What about being overwhelmed in lust? Is there no shame there?"

"Hmm, debatable. It all depends on if that is the only thing you can think of. Tell me, cousin, is that what you are feeling right now? You can't stop staring at every lady's flank that you come across?"

"What?…NO!" Immediately, Blueblood looked at her with shock and an intense blush.

"Oh, I'm sorry, their chests then? Or perhaps you wish to lick their legs."

"What? Who does…?Neither!"

"Can't wait for the moment to walk behind them standing on two legs and…."

"For the love of all that is pure, Candy, stop!" He grabbed her shoulders. "It's nothing like that."

She only smirked and poked his nose. "Then it's not lust that you are feeling, see?" She winked at him as he slowly released her. "And as I said, there is nothing to be ashamed of what you are feeling right now."

"Cadence is not that easy."

"Then help me make it easier, please, Bluey" she grabbed his hoof and stared at him with worry. "Talk to me. What's on your mind?"

Sighing in defeat, Blueblood closed his eyes and nodded. "Well, I suppose you could say it is a mixture of acceptance, curiosity, confusion, and maybe a bit of shame all wrapped up into one complicated package."

"How so?"

"Well, for a while now, I have been struggling with my emotions and tried to convince myself repeatedly that I do not have feelings that I do, in fact, have." He admitted ashamedly.

"Oh, Bluey," Cadence can only shake her head in disappointment.

"It was hard, ok. My worldview of...a lot of things were completely shattered the second I woke up as a pony. Top that with a horrible track record when interacting with the opposite sex, and needless to say, if before I was paranoid and reserved when it came to finding a girlfriend, now I was completely terrified and clueless about what to do."

"I see" Cadence pondered what her cousin was saying a little before smiling. "It probably was a huge relief admitting that you like mares, right?"

"Oh, like you have no idea," He confirmed, nodding rapidly before looking down in shame. "And then I feel ashamed of myself."

"Why? What is so wrong with being in love? Why are you been so harsh on yourself for having feelings?"

"Is not so much about having feelings and more. It's having feelings for more than one mare!" He confessed with an intense blush, startling Cadence briefly with the outburst. "Where I came from, society is not very accepting of the idea of the herd, harems, and polygamy in general. By nature, we are kind of built towards monogamous relationships, with exceptions here and there. And all my life, I have seen people being unfaithful to their significant other, again and again, merely for lust. The equivalent would be like if Shining Armor...." He stopped, not wanting to open an old wound, yet Cadence received the message loud and clear.

"...if he had sought Chrysalis after our wedding by choice and started a secret relationship with her, despite how much that would hurt me. That is what you were trying to say, right?"

"Exactly!" After a tense moment of silence, the Prince finally admitted, "I thought I could fix things up. I mean, I suppose me and Fluttershy started to click after that party, and the idea of having her as my girlfriend, makes me happy, maybe even giddy...but then Desire had to come along and complicate things. When A.J., Pinkie, and Rarity told me what they felt. I...I think I felt something too. Or instead, I remember how I felt when my aunties explained to me what a herd is. I was ashamed to admit it back then, but I got curious about the concept. Subconsciously I started wondering what it would be like to be a part of one.

I was so used to ignoring things like that that I barely perceived it, but...it was there, and once more, I felt it when they confessed. And admitting that I wanted to try it out made me feel like I was betraying Fluttershy, and worse, made me question if I had genuine feelings for her or it was all just a passing fancy."

He chuckled darkly to himself. "I'm the worst. My tastes and what I find attractive weren't replaced from humans to ponies. It seems to have ballooned out of proportion. I still love the idea of a bipedal woman and have my interests in order, but now my views...I think they have expanded to all races! Pony, Abyssian, Seapony...heck! I'm starting to wonder how would I fair with a Holster! Cadence, you need to help me get rid of this. What I'm wanting...is messed up!"

"I will not do such a thing," Cadence replied firmly with a stern look, "Not only because the example that you gave me and what you are feeling are completely different things but also because I will NOT kill true love. Even less so when it's just blossoming."

"True love? Cadence, I just met them! I spent one, O.N.E. day alone with them. I met them as Twilight friends and hung out with them while pretending to be a colt and barely have kept contact with any of them minus Fluttershy after the incident in Manehattan! And even that was a very short interaction. That is not love; that is… ah…ah crush at best!" He tried to defend his view.

"And what's so wrong with having a crush? YES, Blueblood, I'm also including multiple crushes simultaneously." Cadence added before Blueblood could argue that point. "Answer me honestly, Bluey, if everyone, including yourself, knows that there is nothing wrong with having a herd and that it is a perfectly normal relationship goal in our society, then why do you keep torturing yourself by pretending it's wrong to have those feelings?"

"Because…because I'm afraid I'm just indulging myself in fantasy rather than wanting to explore the subject truly. I don't want to hurt any mare or, worse, make her feel like I'm treating her as an object." Blueblood finally confessed and stared down as Cadence smiled and pulled him closer into a hug.

"Just worrying about your partners' feelings like that should be all the proof you would ever need to know that would never be the case."

He remained quiet, deep in thought. Accepting the embrace his cousin was offering, he tried to clear his mind. "I want to believe that and to get rid of all these fears and just try it already."

"But?" She raised an eyebrow, knowing what was eating him alive.

"But I don't know where or how to start." He finally said with an exhausted sigh. "I feel so lost."

"Then let me help you," Cadence offered, catching the Prince by surprise.

"Love is a battlefield, filled with twists and turns. Where it is a guarantee that you might get hurt, repeatedly." She places her hoof over his chest. "But no matter how scary that idea is, it will be nothing compared to the misery, sorrow, and pain your heart will feel forever if you let fears dictate your life and never take that deep dive into the water. So please, Bluey, promise me that you will no longer ignore your heart. Please tell me that you will make an effort to listen."

Blueblood closed his eyes and grabbed the hoof over his heart, remembering the time he spent with all the girls. The laughs he shared with Pinkie, the peace he felt with Rarity, the sense of fulfillment working alongside Applejack, and finally, the sweet, kind smile of Fluttershy capable of melting away any worries plaguing his mind. Slowly piecing together his feelings and what awakened them in the first place, Blueblood slowly smiled and nodded.

"It will be hard, and most likely, I will misinterpret something."

"Then you come to me, and I would gladly translate what your heart is trying to say. Expert translator of love language right here." Cadence points at herself, and they both share a small laugh as he nodded again.

"If that is the case, then yes, I promise I will try my best to stop and listen."

"That is all I needed to know" She hugged him again and rubbed her head against the top of his, being mindful of his horn. "I'm proud of you, cousin."

"Thank you" Blueblood opened his eyes and smiled before he looked away in concern. "Now the question is, where do I go from here?"

Cadence breaks the hug. "You tell me, there sure is plenty on our plate. Tell me, Blue, what would you like to tackle first? Remember, use not only this." She tapped her head. "But consider this as well" She then tapped her chest.

Humming, the Prince looked up, weighing his options until he came up with something "I think I have an idea."

Exiting the room, the two royals looked around the casino until they found just what the Prince was looking for.

"Are you feeling better, partner?" A.J. asked in concern as the four elements approached. Blueblood smiled and nodded.

"I'm ready to speak with you more openly" He then turned to Fluttershy, "Thank you for not letting me take the easy way out."

She smiled and nodded.

"Soooo...what did you decide in the end, Bluey?" Pinkie asked. Her curiosity soon turned to confusion when he shook his head.

"Not yet, while I did find the answers I needed. Right now, I'm also the ruler of Equestria and can't put my duties on hold anymore." He extended his hoof toward them. "So I ask you to be patient just a bit longer. At least until Captain Sparrow finishes giving me his briefing." He closed his eyes and bowed to them.

"Wha-What? B-But our feelings, you can't..." Pinkie was about to protest, but A.J. interrupted her and shook her head at her before smiling at Blueblood

"Fine by me, sugarcube. All of Equus kind of needs your help right now. It would be unfair if we started hogging all of your attention now."

"Agreed, go, darling. We will talk as soon as you finish that important meeting."

"This isn't an excuse to buy more time, is it?" Fluttershy asks with a raised eyebrow as Blueblood shakes his head.

"Nope, I promise this is me simply putting my priorities in order, and as much as I wish to focus on only you. My nation needs me, and it has been more than patient so far. I can't keep it waiting, right?" He then tapped Fluttershy's head. "Plus, I need all of you to settle yourselves. We're going to need your heads in the game if we are going to use the elements."

That caught all of the mare's attention, and Cadence giggled, knowing what he had in mind.

"Wait, we? Does that mean you intend..." A.J. tried to argue, but Blueblood was already leaving.

"Sorry, I have to go. Promise to clear things up once I'm done. Until then, I leave them to you, Candy!" He waved goodbye as Cadence blocked their way with magic to prevent them from following him.

"You can count on that, Bluey" She waved goodbye to him with a friendly smile.

"What the hay is going on, Cadence?" A.J. questioned, caught off guard by how everything played out.

"Just as he said, his royal duties can no longer be put on hold. So in the meanwhile, let's all have a little talk." She kept smiling at them, but for some reason, the air started to fill with tension.

"Eh...what type of talk exactly?" Fluttershy asked with some fear in her voice and a raised eyebrow.

"Oh, nothing much. I just want to clear the air with all of you regarding my cousin." She stepped closer to them and closed her eyes. "And what exactly are your intentions with him?"

A.J. could not help but roll her eyes and sigh in frustration. "Seriously?! First Big Mac, and now you Princess? I thought of all ponies you would leave me alone with...Ack!" When Applejack looked back at the Princess of love, she froze in place and cringed with how close Cadence had gotten to her while maintaining her smile before finally opening her eyes to stare right at her. By that point, the air in the room was freezing and heavy.

"Well said, Applejack. Normally, I would be completely on your side. Unfortunately, however, I have grown too close to Blueblood. To be completely honest, part of me has always wanted to play the protective big sister role, so don't hold it against me and if it's ok I would start with you. Good? Good. Then let us begin." The mares all gulped at the intense gaze Cadence leveled at them as she used her magic to close the room door slowly.

Meanwhile, the V.I.P. poker room repurposed as a military room.

Blueblood made his way to meet with his guards. Soon enough, he was greeted by two soldiers guarding the entrance with their spears.

"I come to speak with Captain Sparrow." The Prince announced with an authoritative tone, and after a short nod, both guards retracted their spears and opened the door, allowing the prince entrance. Inside he saw the pegasus in question inspecting a map of Equestria and discussing plans with other soldiers, one an earth pony and another a unicorn until they all noticed the arrival of Blueblood and stopped to bow to him.

"Your majesty," Sparrow greeted as all others in the room stood and bowed at the word of the Captain, who then turned to introduce his peers, starting with the unicorn. "This is Lieutenant Light Spear in charge of the unicorn battalion."

"Greetings, your Highness"

"And this Sargent Ground Breaker, the pony in charge of the earth ponies first front of attack/defense."

"Thank you for coming to speak to us, your Highness."

"At ease, soldiers," Blueblood ordered, just like Princess Platinum taught him when speaking with royals as they relaxed and lifted their heads. "And thank you for keeping the peace during my absence, your efforts have surely been noted and will be rewarded properly when the time comes, but for now, I was under the impression that there were urgent matters that I needed to be briefed on?"

Black Sparrow nodded once. "Indeed, there is plenty, sir, starting with the how and why there is an additional platoon stationed in this casino. Something that was caused by the actions of the spirit of Desire."

The comment caught Blueblood's attention as he approached the table and took a seat so that the royal guards could begin their explanation. "By all means, please, if it involved one of Discord siblings, I imagine it is quite the tale."

"Unfortunately, it's a rather short and simple tale. Our platoon was on our way to Ponyville to gather the elements of harmony when that spirit and Scarlet ambushed us inside the train. By that point, the power of Desire had reached a level where all of our combined might was merely an annoyance for them." Ground Breaker quickly followed up on Spear's answer.

"By the time we came to our senses, we were already in the casino serving as muscle for that overgrown plant, stopping us from continuing our mission. A mission that we really should be on our way." He says, only barely containing his agitation behind his trained professionalism.

"Patience, Sergeant, we already discussed this. Before we decide anything, the Prince must be informed of all the facts." Sparrow reminded his companion sternly.

"Patience?! The nation is in danger, and we are just wasting time here! We need to act now while we still have the tactical...!" Breaker stopped once Blueblood silenced him with a neutral yet stern look as he raised his hoof into the air. Taking a short breath, the earth pony stood back and retreated a little under his gaze. Once calm, he turns to the Captain and Prince before nodding. "My apologies, your Majesty, Captain."

"Please proceed, Captain. What Sgt. Breaker is saying it is certainly alarming news. Tell me exactly what situation demands the attention of not only the elements but also a well-trained, equipped platoon composed of all three tribes?"

With a sigh, Sparrow closed his eyes and nodded. "It's your aunts, your Highness. They may be in danger." The eyes of the Prince widened ever so slightly in shock before narrowing into seriousness. The Captain opened his own once more and elaborated. "The royal family in general, maybe even all of Equestria, is under potential threat of a domestic terrorist attack orchestrated by a member of the noble class who goes by Sharp Shooter. we do not yet currently understand the scope of the threat."

That name again. So all this time, he wasn't only targeting me then?

"This is a bold claim, Captain. Do you have the evidence to back it up?" Blueblood inquired with a raised eyebrow trying his best to remain professional and impartial. His guards all nodded in confirmation.

"Princess Luna herself can attest to our claims, your Highness. She is the one that led the investigation and discovered the plans he had for the nations, including gathering all of the evidence regarding your attempted regicide and even how he was planning on targeting Applejack next."

"We cannot produce the evidence now, though, so for now, I ask you to trust our words, your Highness until we can return to Canterlot."

"There will be no need for that, gentlestallions, I believe you." Blueblood nodded and remained quiet as the only way to keep himself calm. "Finding out about these plans and the evidence gathered..." He shook his head and took a deep breath after shivering a little. The soldiers were unsure if that was an involuntary reaction out of fear or anger. "...It would be understandable why my aunt would believe Sharp Shooter might be targeting the royal family if things didn't stop with me."

"I'm sorry, your highness." Breaker shakes his own head and offers the Prince an understanding look. "But it is more than an assumption. She solved the case. Princess Luna tried to establish a mental link with Princess Celestia only to find her possibly sedated by one of the Shooter allies...your godmother."

That did the trick as Blueblood paused to stare at them before he started to chuckle and slowly turned to gaze directly at the earth pony. "No, please, she couldn't, not aunt Tempo!"

"I'm sorry" The soldiers look at him with pity and understanding. All the while, a still shaken Prince Blueblood tries to remain composed, breathing deeply. He relaxed enough to address the group of officers once more.

"How are you so sure?"

"The timing was more than convenient, your highness, the motive of establishing a group, their history, how she was pushing to revive Sharp Shooter's old ideas, her mysterious disappearance after Princess Celestia exiled her from Canterlot..."

The last part gave the Prince pause as he looked at Spear, who paused his list, "My aunt exiled her?"

They all nodded. "Even if circumstantial, there is enough evidence to believe Tempo is involved. That is why we are treating this as a terrorist act, and Princess Luna ordered the apprehension of Crossfire Tempo." Breaker informed the Prince, " We organized two units, one following her to Applelossa and Tempo's spa. The other was to bring the elements there as well. We were even suspicious that she was plotting against the Wonderbolts." He slammed his hoof on the table. "Which is why we must act now, your Highness, your aunts...all of Equestria need you. We don't know how many moves ahead that traitor has plotted against the nation, but it is safe to say no one ever believes a single pony could best an eternal spirit. We must act now while we can still exploit the element of surprise."

" But if we do that, we risk stepping into a trap." Spear countered. "Something caught not only Princess Celestia but prevented Princess Luna from rescuing her. What guarantees do we have the same won't happen to us? We cannot stay idle, and we use the elements carefully. We must regroup and go back to Canterlot where we could get better equipped."

"And leave those terrorists loose in the nation?! What's to say this wasn't part of the plan? Scarlet was part of Shooter's circle of friends, too. She could easily be another ally of his. The Princess might be being transported and imprisoned somewhere we cannot go as we speak! We need to seize the offensive now!"

"Enough, you two!" Sparrow intervened and broke them apart using his wings. "I understand your concerns. I do. But besides that, we must also think of the civilians in the hotel and the possibility of aiding Discord. If something is making him struggle, it might be best to send the elements to help and increase our chances of success."

Exchanging glances between the two soldiers, Sparrow retracted his wings once they calmed down enough and gave a tired sigh before addressing Blueblood.

"That is everything, your Highness. We understand this is a difficult situation. By Celestia's standing orders, we have established communications and temporary alliances with all the royal guards of the other nations to ensure everyone's safety in this building. Perhaps you could strike a deal with other rulers as well. The only thing we ask is that you consider our options. Yes, releasing Desire might aid us, but there could be better alternatives. I believe it was important that you be informed of the whole situation before making any decisions."

And I thought sorting out my feelings was terrifying. Blueblood remained silent and nodded once.

"You have my thanks, Captain Sparrow. I will be sure to keep everything you just said in mind. if you would please give me a moment to consider everything you have said?"

"Of course, you have been thrust into this dire and delicate situation, your majesty. Take as much time as you need. It seems for once that time is a luxury we can afford." Sparrow nodded.

"You have our full support no matter your decision, Prince Blueblood," Sgt. Breaker added. "I only have to say. It might be best to focus on your aunt's rescue first." He looked up at the ceiling. "It's a miracle the animal and plant life is still ok but having the sky as it is. It would only be a matter of time before it takes a toll..." Sparrow jabbed the sergeant in the side and made him look as Blueblood kept his gaze fixed on the table.

"Don't worry. I will keep that in mind as well. Gentlestallions," He vowed before standing up. "If you need me, I would be in my quarters. Once I come to a decision, I will inform you immediately. Until then, please keep ensuring the safety of everyone in the building."

"Yes, sir!" They all saluted as Blueblood marched out of the room, and once he made sure there was no pony nearby, he sighed in exhaustion and rubbed his forehead

And it just keeps piling up! Desire, my aunts, the sky, Sharp Shooter, the elements!....Augh! He stopped at a window and observed the distorted sky of day and night. 

Heavy is the head upon which the crown lays. Yeah! Understatement of the century. And I'm not even wearing a hat now.
> Dear Prince Blueblood (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

In his room, Blueblood sat on the side of his bed and sighed. His brain was about to explode as he couldn't think of a solution to his predicament. So many things kept being dumped in his lap, each and every one demanding his attention, and he had no idea what to do now.

Expelling a loud, exhausted sigh, he looked up and hit his back against his bed in frustration until something fell on the side of his head. Startled, he looked around and saw that it was the same backpack he carried all over Ponyville during his sleepovers. As he recovered from the slight startle, memories of his aunt flooded his mind. How much did she go overboard in packing everything for his trip? Most of which he did not need, and how his Aunt Luna saved his life by packing his weapons? Even if her intention was merely for them to be used as a display.

Chuckling to himself, he shook his head and approached the bag. "I don't suppose you have something to fix this mess, right?" He chuckled half heartedly as he started to open it.

"Blueblood?"

Startled once more, he tossed the item away and took a step back, staring at it until a knock on the door behind him told him where that voice came from and how his luggage didn't just come to life.

"Are you okay? Sorry for coming by so soon. I know you told us to be patient, but I wanted to make sure you'd be okay, and when Sparrow told me you were here. I got worried." The Prince could hear the concern in Applejack's voice from the other side and could almost picture her putting her hoof on the door. "Can I come in?"

With a tired sigh, he readied himself before smiling and opening the door. "Sure thing, AJ." Once he saw her, the Prince could see the worry plastered all over her face as he tilted his head. "But what about Candy? I thought she wanted to speak with all of you."

His confusion only grew when she shivered a little "Don't remind me, for the princess of Love, that mare can get a bit scary."

"Did something happen?"

"Let's just say you might as well start calling her big sister from now on." That was all she said as she walked inside. Blueblood was about to ask another question before he stopped and pondered on the idea, before nodding and smiling again, liking what he had come up with.

"But let's not get sidetracked. Right now, I only want to know how you are doing. Is everything okay? Many things seem to have suddenly fallen onto your back, partner."

He sighed in exhaustion. "I wish I could tell you everything is fine, but knowing you, that would be pointless, right?" He smiled weakly at her

"Eeyup," She confirmed while he returned to his bed and sat down once more, "I was afraid things would end up like this. Just dealing with us took a lot out of you. I can't imagine what it would be like to add the whole mess the world is in on top of that." She sat next to him with a worried expression.

"That would be an understatement. Each problem on its own is bad enough, but now with how they keep appearing? The sky, the world, the elements, the crown, my love life, my family drama, heck! I bet any second now a guard is going to march through that door and beg me to move the sky! Sure, why not? My plate is just cracking under the weight. Let's fill it up even more and..." He started hyperventilating until AJ, thinking quickly, brought him close into a hug.

"Hey, hey! Breath, partner, breath, focus on me, just in me. The chores can wait. Just think of my voice right now." She instructed and hummed a minor tune to help him relax and stop quivering. Her actions seemed to do the trick, and he slowly calmed down, letting go of the tears he was holding back.

"Applejack, my entire world is crumbling in front of my eyes. I'm at my limit, and I am just done dealing with one world-ending problem after another. For crying out loud! I'm about to crack here."

"I know, sugar cube, I know. I'm here for you. We will figure something out together. For now, just let it go." She closed her eyes and started rocking the two, their movements knocking down the backpack and letting its contents spill out on the floor, but neither of them cared. For now, the Prince was solely focused on her voice as Applejack did what she could to calm his nerves and try to reason with him.

After what felt like an eternity, the Prince's tears finally stopped, and he sniffed, clearing his eyes while chuckling. "I must look pretty pathetic right now." He broke the hug they were in and looked her in the eyes. "First day on the job and I'm a total mess by noon. I bet if Twilight was in my horseshoes she..."

"...would be in the exact position you are in right now." Applejack interrupted him immediately, catching him off guard.

"Oh sure, we all have had our fair share of solving world-ending problems. This isn't even the first time the sky has been all messed up. But I sure as heck know that Twilight has never had to deal with, like, eight crises simultaneously." She cleaned the tears from his face. "So I say you are already doing a better job keeping it together." She started to chuckle and looked around. "If Twilight had to deal with what you are going through, this room would be filled to the brim with scrolls, charts, ink bottles, and feathers as she furiously wrote down all her ideas to devise a plan."

That helped him calm down, and they shared a small laugh. "Yeah, that sounds a lot like Twilight." Closing his eyes, he leaned against his bed and sighed in exhaustion, "I just wish there would be some kind of instructions or advice on how to deal with multiple crises simultaneously."

"Heh, if only the apple orchard could farm and sell themselves, right?" AJ cracked a joke to lighten the mood. "Then we all could be as fat as we wanted."

Snorting, Blueblood glanced at her, smirking until he rolled his eyes. "Okay, I get it. There is never an excuse to look for shortcuts or be lazy."

"Nor to overwork yourself to the bone." Applejack placed one of her forehoofs over his shoulder and sat next to him. "Believe me. I learned that the hard way. Sometimes you need to know when to call it quits and realize you need help."

"You Applejack? the cowgirl champion of multiple rodeos? Ponyville's self-appointed handyman? Ms. I never back down from a challenge? You know when to call it quits?"

"Hey, come on, sugar cube!" She gave him a light jab on the arm. "I'm not THAT stubborn either." They both laughed for a moment, and the Prince breathed for what he thought was the first time in a while.

"Thanks, AJ. I really needed that"

"Anytime, partner" She then took notice of something poking out of the Prince's backpack. "Hey, what's that?"

Turning around, Blueblood found an envelope which he picked up, and read the front "Is a letter from aunt Celly, addressed to me?"

"She must have packed it when you weren't looking. What does it say?" AJ asked, curious as Blueblood opened it and started reading its contents.

Dear Blueblood.

I know this must be kind of weird. I decided to write a letter even though we would only be apart for a couple of weeks, but I ask you, please, allow this old mare this little hobby of hers, and let me share this little something with you...

As he read, Blueblood could almost picture his aunt writing this letter. The same night they finished packing, after she was done tucking him in on his bed, maybe even doing it in the same room as she watched over him before resuming.

...Ever since you came into my life, things in the castle have regained a certain glow, a sort of joy that I, in my foulness and tunnel vision, allowed to die long ago, and which cost me the life of yet another family member.

The trembling in the writing at the end of the sentence gave the Prince all the clues he needed to know how hard it was for her to write that down.

The sad ordeal gave me the shock I needed. And not only reminded me to appreciate what I still have but also made me realize your latent potential. I still recall our first encounter like it was only yesterday. You were so scared, vulnerable, and innocent in a new world. And now here you are, asserting yourself as a true Prince, carrying Canterlot's legacy with the pride only a son could have. Filling me with pride and closing a hole in my heart that I genuinely believe would always be there.

AJ chuckled at that section and looked at Blueblood. "Wow, you managed to leave a good impression on the princess' partner."

He joined in the laugh and nodded, "We both did, and frankly, I wouldn't have it any other way." He stared at the letter serenely, picturing his aunt's face in it. "My aunts are the best."

AJ allowed him a little moment before resuming, "What else does it say?"

"Let's see" He shook it once, and they resumed.

Seeing you turn from an innocent lost soul into the strong, independent, and chivalrous knight before my eyes has given me all the proof I need to take this decision. Not only are you family, but the entirety of Equestria could use someone like you leading it, and even when Twilight was chosen to wear the crown, I can't think of anyone more qualified to help her rule Equestria than you.

They both had to pause and re-read the last sentence to make sure she actually put it, their eyes widening in surprise.

"What does that mean? She wants you to rule Equestria too? Kinda like she and Princess Luna are doing?"

"No, I don't think that is what she meant" Blueblood shook his head as they continued to read.

That is why, after talking it over with Luna and having discussed it and approved by the royal council. I have decided to grant you the title of Plenipotentiary Ruler once you return home. A title that hasn't seen the light of day in over a century, but you have proven to be more than worthy of bringing it back.

Consider this your reward for all you have done and achieved. I know you can handle such an important responsibility, and remember, no matter what happens, Your family loves you and will always be there for you.

Sincerely, your dear Aunt Celestia.

The Prince was left cold once he finished the letter, while AJ could only blink in confusion while tilting her head.

"Plenypo...polite...." She shook her head before giving up trying to repeat it and turned to Blueblood. "What the hay is that title supposed to be?"

"It's a diplomatic title, perhaps the greatest of them all."

That caught her attention. "Really? How so?"

"Princess Platinum told me about them while I was in exile. A Plenipotentiary is a kind of like a substitute ruler. They are the go-to ambassador for international meetings and can continue to act when the ruler can't assist, due to other obligations, illness, or another meeting happening elsewhere. They can even rule if the previous ruler dies without announcing a successor or having a next in line. They have the full power of independent action on behalf of the rulers outside the country. It is basically the ultimate expression of trust a ruler can grant anyone. This title means that she..."

He shook a little and fought back the tears "...that she trusts me enough to place the kingdom's safety in my hooves. They didn't know, and still, they gave me their blessing to rule before I even knew it." He hugged the letter and started to weep. "They trust me with the nation's safety, and I am just hiding in my room, not knowing what to do."

"Hey, hey!" AJ stopped him before he could continue the pity party. "None of that here, partner! Sure, the Princess gave you the huge task of taking over the whole farm, but that means she truly believes you can handle it. And you know what, I believe her, you helped Canterlot. You looked for ways to improve the lives of everyone you meet. You established a new society to help the other kingdoms evolve and improve for Celestia's sake!" she grabbed his shoulders and made him stand up, dusting off his shoulders and wiping away his tears. "Trust me, you. Are. Natural at this of being a prince " She marked each word by poking him in the chest. "So don't go crumbling on me now, you hear me?"

Her pep talk helped him relax somehow, and after sighing, he nodded and smiled. "Heh, if only things could be as easy as handling one farm, right?"

"Hey, don't go underestimating us either. Controlling a farm ain't easy. There's plowing the fields, farming the apples, feeding the animals, loading your products, selling your products, and that is just the morning."

"Wow, sounds titanic, and you do all that on a daily basis?"

"Eeyup, so don't go selling us short. It's not a nation, but it sure as heck is one huge load of work we do each day. Good thing we all in our family pull our weight and do our part. I don't think even the princesses with all of her magic could manage running an entire farm all by themselves."

"Yeah, that would be ridiculous," Blueblood laughed briefly before his eyes widened in realization. "Wait a minute."

"What is it, partner?" AJ tilts her head in confusion.

"That last part, what was it again? The thing, about your family?" He asked while looking around the room until he found a blank parchment and a pen.

"What? That we all pull our weight?"

"Yeah!" He suddenly pointed at her, saying, "That one, how exactly did you do it?"

Startled and taken aback, she took a step back. "Ah, we... know each other's strengths and weaknesses and divide our chores accordingly. We would never put Applebloom on apple-bucking or Big Mac on storing apples. One is too weak and the other too strong for each job."

"Dividing work," He repeated to himself as he started to write furiously on the parchment. "And using each other's strengths, cover ground, so if I treat this like a whole problem instead of multiple ones..." He started to ramble on.

"Okay, partner, you are starting to freak me out with your Twilight impression right now. What the hay is on your mind n...?"

The Prince interrupted out of the blue with wide eyes

"That is it!" Applejack, you are a genius!" Out of nowhere, Blueblood brought her into a bear hug and kissed her full on the lips before rushing out of the room.

"Ah, what? Wait, where are you going!?" AJ asked after she managed to recover from the spin and the kiss and gave chase.

"To gather everyone and assign jobs, it's time to divide and conquer!" Blueblood answered excitedly as he galloped to look for the other princes and princesses. "Thank you so much. You just gave me the answer I needed!"

"Ah, you are welcome?" Applejack managed to respond pretty much in the dark on what exactly happened and still recovering from the sudden kiss, which caused her to smile and blush a little after the initial surprise.
> Heir's Strike Plan (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So, are you all on board? Are we clear with the plan?" Blueblood asked, looking around at his peers.

"It sounds solid, yes. Certainty beats just laying around doing nothing," Triceps mentioned.

"Or just rushing blindly into a trap," Hestia added, smirking. "I want to see my old man ignoring me after this."

"This sure would be something for the history books." Nefertiti murmured while admiring the map lying in front of them all and smiled, " The society of heirs is officially making its debut." She smirked at Blueblood. "With our brave leader taking charge and leading from the front instead of hiding behind his soldiers. We better put a decent act for the historians."

"Oh, for Pete's sake. Do me a favor and don't go writing a musical about it, stupid cat," Sierra snarked, crossing her arms.

"What do you say, street dog?!" They started to growl at one another until Blueblood put himself between the two and split them apart.

"Enough, you two! We need to go and gather the others and show them we have this under control, so we better put on our game faces and present a united front."

"Right" They all agreed but not before Nefertiti smirked at Sierra

"I taught him that"

"Nefi," Blueblood cautioned, and she raised her hands in mock surrender

"Last one, boss, I promise."

With a sigh, he took her word for it; they then summoned their commanding officers and the elements to fill them in with a chalkboard in the room.

"Ok, everyone, listen up," Blueblood started and pointed at the concept map showcasing each problem. "After careful consideration and discussion, we have simplified our predicament into four different, distinct problems." He pointed at each drawing. "The situation in the sky, the silent crystal empire, the world being asleep, and the safety of our civilians in the hotel, which we might as well consider the entire planet's population until we solved the third problem."

Nefertiti stood up and continued, "Each of these problems is bad enough, but after some deliberation, we concluded that the most pressing one is the situation with the sky." She pointed at the ceiling for emphasis, "It's bad enough if the entire global population wakes up and discovers that weeks have passed out of nowhere, but while that can be mediated with relative ease, the idea of them waking up to this kind of sky is a sure recipe for mass hysteria. That is why fixing the sky must be our top priority."

She then sat and let Hestia proceed. "But that doesn't mean we will focus solely on that area. If we wish to repair as much damage as possible and avoid panic, injuries or casualties, our best move would be to split our forces."

The gathered audience started to take glances and mumble to themselves at the idea before Blueblood continued, "With our available forces, we have decided to split into four teams" He pointed at a drawing of Las Pegasus. "First, this hotel is well stocked with rooms and food, so we will continue to use the Rose Palace as a refuge for the civilians, keeping them safe and calm."

"You would need muscle for that, so my soldiers and I would take care of security," Triceps responded confidently.

"And it would be better to have eyes on the sky, so my detail and I will stay as well," Hestia added, landing on Triceps's shoulders.

"Applejack, you are an expert in preparing and distributing food with your experience as a farmer and business mare. I will need you to stay here and help with the provisions, with a detachment of our military forces assisting you."

"Can do, partner" AJ nodded and smiled at how well he was delegating.

"Captain Sparrow, I need you here too, and we will discuss why in a moment, but regarding the bulk of our forces and who stays? We will leave that to you and the rest of the generals. Plus, you will answer to Applejack once I'm gone." Blueblood addressed his soldiers as they saluted in unison.

"Yes, sir!" They all replied at the same time, startling Applejack a little.

"Moving on, our best asset, and the one that could easily move the celestial bodies while the princesses are absent is Discord. So we must go help him with whatever issue he encounters."

"That is why Pharynx, and I will lead a reconnaissance mission with a small group of soldiers to infiltrate my home and find out what is happening," Cadence continued. "Fluttershy, your skill in talking with animals, would aid us greatly, so I need you to come too. Discord might be in trouble, so I'm sure you would want to help him."

The shy pegasus was a bit unsure but ultimately nodded with determination.

"Also, Desire will be going too, I know some of you have your reservations, but I need you to trust me. She WILL cooperate as soon as we release her, she can undo whatever she did, and the sooner we have two eternal spirits on our side, the sooner we will be able to fix the world." Blueblood added.

The guards still looked unsure but decided to hold their tongues and let him continue.

"That being said, it is best to take precautions. That is why I want Sierra and Skystar to go to Canterlot and use the vault of the castle to construct or invent any devices that may aid us in fixing the sky or any other issue that may arise."

That caught his commander's attention as they took a step forward. "Sir, permission to speak freely." Spear spoke up.

"Granted"

"Are you sure that would be wise?" Light Spear questioned with a raised eyebrow, "The royal vaults contain some of Equestria's most powerful and dangerous artifacts and curses. Celestia knows what else has been sealed away from the public for their safety. And you will let two princesses from foreign nations enter them and take what they wish without supervision?"

"Skystar already has proven to be a trustworthy ally during the invasion of the Storm King, and Sierra is a brilliant diamond dog whose race is renowned for its unquestionable loyalty. She has already been kind enough to lend us some of her inventions."

The diamond dog in question stood up and showed them a pair of auriculars. "It is still in the prototype phase and can only be used to project your voice, but with this, Triceps and Hestia and their soldiers would be able to communicate instantly. Helping coordinate their movements more easily and helping us coordinate our actions faster between teams."

"And while I fully trust them, I understand your point, Lieutenant; that is why you, a platoon of your choosing, and Rarity will accompany them."

"Me?" Rarity pointed at herself.

"You are a great judge of character, Rarity. That is why I'm trusting you to keep an eye on them. Besides, no one loves and knows more about Canterlot than you. You might even surprise yourself by lending a hand in whatever they invent and turning it into something simply radiant."

"Oh well, when you put it like that, how could I refuse? You sure made a good choice in picking me for this part, darling," She replied with a blush from the compliment. "We creative minds tend to get along pretty well."

"Yeah! Girl´s trip!" Skystar brought the two into a group hug with a big grin. "Can't wait to see what we will be making! Oh, can we have a sleepover? Oh, maybe an invention sleepover."

Blueblood chuckled a little before resuming his explanation for the final team. "Meanwhile, Nefertiti and I will accompany Sergeant Ground Breaker with a small squad and lead a rescue mission to retrieve my aunts. The abissian troops are experts in detecting and disarming traps. If something grabs my aunts, they will find out exactly what, and in case of complications, I fully trust the earth pony platoon to be our first line of defense."

"I live for the crown." Ground bowed his head to the unicorn prince, "I'm familiar with the terrain, your majesty, so I can easily guide you and traverse the desert if required."

Blueblood turned to Nefertiti, who nodded before looking at the Sargent. "Fair enough, you will act as our guide. And while all of this is happening, Captain Sparrow?"

"Yes, sir?"

"I need you to stay here to coordinate and lead all of us using a specially designed caldron Sierra invented."

"Wait, she has and brought a caldron specifically for this kind of situation...for a meeting?" AJ raised an eyebrow at the diamond dog.

"Not exactly," The princess in question answered. "The idea of communicating via caldron already exists. All I had to do was improve it to its logical peak. I have done it before. It was actually one of my first inventions, so modifying the one here was child's play." She emphasized with a snap of her finger. "I can get you one ready in an hour. In fact I already did while Blueblood was sleeping, thought it could be needed"

Sparrow looked at her and then at Blueblood. "Sir, if I may inquire?"

"You may"

"Wouldn't it be more logical for us to switch places? You are the ruler. If someone should be...well, ruling, it should be you. Please let me go, in your place."

"I applaud your commitment, soldier, and I'm not questioning your abilities in the field. But it will be more helpful if you stay here as mission control." He looked around at the other rulers. "We discussed it amongst ourselves and took a vote, and we concur that while it was a group effort, you managed to coordinate and organize everyone in the palace to prevent chaos or panic. Making you the perfect choice to stay here, not only to keep us on track but to make the correct call and send reinforcements if any of us need it."

"That is not the only issue, sir. She is your godmother. Would you be able to be objective on a mission this closely related to you?"

Blueblood paused to consider for a moment before sighing.

"I understand your concern, Captain Sparrow, but this is something I have to do. Not only because they are my family but also because out of all the objectives, the Mirage is the one place where we have no idea what we are facing, except that it managed to stop two alicorns. That is why we need to prepare the elements in case they are needed. Plus, I don't intend to venture blindly into danger. That is why Nefertiti, Sgt. Ground, and their squads are also coming. This will be a group effort, and I fully intend to play my part." He looked around at the rest of the princes and princesses as they nodded. "We all will" He looked back at Sparrow. "Have faith in me, captain. I promise I will exercise caution and listen to any advice you or Ground might have."

The captain's expression remained neutral for a moment before nodding once. "As you wish, your highness, I only ask that you keep me posted with anything you find, stay in the rear, and if things turn out to be too dangerous, you would retreat immediately and await reinforcements."

"Will do, unless the situation forces me to take action." Blueblood nodded, agreeing to their conditions before addressing the rest of the group. "Anyone else want to add anything?" When there was no reply, he proceeded.

"Good. In that case, you all have your orders."

"We will begin our missions tomorrow at dawn." Triceps continued before standing up. "Ready your troops, get your affairs in order, and rest well tonight because tomorrow, the society of heirs will take Equus back!"

"Captain Sparrow, once you are done assigning and organizing the troops, see Sierra in the security room so she can explain how the caldron works. Don't be late." Blueblood added as he stood and saluted his troops.

"If no one has anything else to say, then you can leave now," Cadence instructed as everyone started to leave until someone lifted her hoof.

"Hey, what about me?" Pinkie asks, "Where will I be going?" She turned to Blueblood for an answer as he smiles

"Ah yes, Pinkie, thanks for reminding me. Don't worry. I have something special for you to do, but I cannot disclose it now. I need your mind clear for when we release Desire" The prince stood up. "Everyone else, you heard Prince Triceps. Get everything you need to do in order and rest well. We will leave the distribution of soldiers to the heads of security of each nation. Other than that, you are all dismissed."

And with that, all the rulers spread out and were left to their devices as everyone prepared for their upcoming missions with Blueblood and Cadence guiding the four elements of harmony towards the stadium, now converted into an improvised prison where the statue of Desire was on a 24-hour watch by rotating shifts of guards from all the nations.

"Nicely done, partner!" AJ praised the prince as she was impressed by the change of attitude. "Ya had me worried for a second when we didn't hear from you and the other royals for hours, but you managed to turn things around."

"Ah, Blueblood, not to question your plan, but are you sure we can release Desire?" Fluttershy voiced her concern. "I'll help in any way I can, but you haven't told us how we are gonna do it yet."

"Or what is my super duper secret mission!" Pinkie interjected.

For his part, Blueblood chuckled and stopped in the middle of the hallway with the others doing the same "Patience, Pinkie. As I said, I will explain everything once we get Desire on board, and for that," He poked the party pony's forehead, "I need you to relax and focus. As for how we are going to use the elements again? I was thinking of something a bit out of the box that I'm confident it will work." He turned to Cadence. "Wanna take this, sis?"

"Sis?" Cadence looked at him with a raised eyebrow

"Sorry, too much?"

Cadence glanced at AJ, who gave her a deadpan look, leading Cadence to roll her eyes. "We will discuss it later, but for now, sure, I can take it from here." She nodded before looking at the elements. "While it is true that we are missing two elements. Blueblood is proof that there can be other ways to wield them, while it is not the same as magic. I have confidence that love can be used as a temporary substitute."

"So you are gonna act as the element of magic then?" AJ looked at the princess with a raised eyebrow before turning to Blueblood. "And you're gonna try to substitute for Dash?"

"Not exactly," Blueblood shook his head. "Rather than trying to copy what all of you normally do. I was thinking of something a little... unorthodox. But for this to work, I need your help." He brings his right hoof to his chest, "I need you to trust in me and my ability to summon the power of the elements once more by closing your eyes, relaxing, and trying to transmit your elements into Llamrei. Cadence would keep us stable, and when we are ready, we will all fire the beam of light. Just like when you released Discord."

"Sounds like fun," Pinkie chirped. "I always love to do things outside the box. No one ever expects it."

"And it seems logical enough," AJ nodded in agreement. "But are you sure you even need us, partner? Last time you managed to use the elements all by yourself."

"True, but to be perfectly honest with you, I hardly knew what I was doing." He confessed, looking at his sword. "Everything happened so fast. One moment I felt like Desire was unbeatable. Next, I heard Twilight's voice in my ear, telling me something that helped me catch my second wind."

"And what did she say?" Fluttershy asks

"She said : 'By her own nature, she can't ever be complete or wield the elements fully,'" Blueblood repeated before looking at her,"'Only those that understand friendship can.' After that, everything fell into place, and I regained my confidence, but wielding the elements? Having Twilight's magic act as a force amplifier? Charging my moves? That was mostly me running on auto-pilot" He shook his head. "There is no way I can recreate that at will. I need the professionals to help me out."

He smiled at them, extending his hoof. "So I ask, would you help me wield the elements one last time?"

The girls looked at one another before nodding at him. "You can count on us, darling," Rarity replied, grasping his hoof, which was quickly followed by the rest.

"It's not that hard once you get the hang of it, partner, but it's a good call asking for help. It is easier when we work together."

"I think you could do it, but if you need one tiny push. I would gladly help," Fluttershy confirmed with a soft voice.

"Yeah! Let's do it! It will be fun. I always wanted to see if we could use other combinations, but Twilight always says, "That is not how the elements work, Pinkie." She suddenly copied Twilight and even matched her hairstyle before returning to her usual hyperactive self, making everyone chuckle.

"Thank you all, and I'm sure when we all work together. Things will improve very soon." They all resumed their march, with Cadence dropping behind to walk next to AJ.

"I know you did this"

"Hmm?"

"My cousin's confidence and positive attitude." Cadence smirked at her, causing AJ to roll her eyes.

"Seriously, you are going to blame me for that too? I only gave him a pep talk, I swear!"

"Relax, I'm not complaining, quite the opposite, actually." Cadence smiled at the farmer. "Thank you for being there when he needed you the most. It seems like you caught the meaning of our little chat."

AJ shivered at the memory. "I still think you are overreacting, Cadence. None of us want to leech off of him. You can trust us."

Cadence only laughed at the complaint. "I know I can. My intention was to warn you so as not to hurt him. Call me old-fashioned, but I'm a strong believer in helping couples bring out the best in one another."

"We're not even a couple yet!" AJ exclaimed with an intense blush on her cheeks.

"Key word in that sentence is the 'yet' part, and you will be glad to know you have my seal of approval." Cadence winked at her as she marched forward, and AJ sighed in exasperation.

"For pony's sake, she's even worse than Applebloom," AJ mumbled quietly to herself.
> Desired Condition (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Entering the prison/stadium, the group approached the statue of Desire, kneeling in the middle of the room. Surrounding her were all sorts of flowers that sprung soon after she was immobilized, giving a more calm and serene air to the room.

Taking a deep breath, Blueblood drew Llamrei and stared at its steel, which still hummed with a faded purple glow at its edges. Feeling a hoof on his right shoulder, he looked back to see Fluttershy looking at him with a reassuring smile. Like the others, she wore her element collar, which occasionally glinted with power. "It's ok. I was nervous the first time too."

Her smile calmed him down as he smiled back and nodded. "Heh, I suppose it gets easier after that, right?"

"More or less, yeah," Rarity replied. "If I had to describe using the elements in one word, it would be...energizing." She shivered a bit. "Each time we use them, your whole body feels weird but in a good way. Almost as if you were pumped full of energy and feel like you could do anything."

"And you are ready to burst and let all that built-up energy out, everywhere!" Pinkie added, equally excited, "Oh, it will be so incredible to see how it would look this time!"

"How exactly will you be doing this anyway, partner?" AJ asked with an eyebrow raised. "Did we just close our eyes and try to pass our magic to you or...?"

"I was thinking of something a bit more simple." Blueblood raised Llamrei into the air so everyone could see it. "Just focus on my sword, like when you used the elements, and I will try to guide the energy."

"While I keep everything stable." Cadence concluded, smiling as she brought the mares closer to her using her wings. "By the way, you should focus on Blueblood while that happens too" She whispered to them so he didn't hear as he was distracted practicing using the magic of Twilight, only getting a couple of sparks as a result.

"Huh?" All the mares looked at the Princess, confused, as she smiled.

"As I said, we will be using love instead of magic this time, so try focusing on Bluey while giving your magic. Think about all the good times you have had together, how much you want to help, how he makes you feel here." She pointed at her chest. "Trust me. It will make things far easier. It's what I did when Shining and I defeated Chrysalis at our wedding."

They look at one another before smiling. "Sounds easy enough, ok princess." They broke apart and approached the Prince, who kept trying and failing.

Weird, I didn't remember this being this hard before. He then saw Cadence and got an idea "Hey Candy, maybe you should..."

"...I'm gonna stop you right there, Bluey," Cadence interrupted him and put him ahead of the others. "I'm just here to be the battery, nothing else. You got this. Just close your eyes, aim and shoot when ready." She instructed, lifting the sword so it pointed at Desire and the star scar on her chest. "There just like that"

She then looked at the other mares. "Ready?"

"Ready," They all agreed, gathering around Blueblood as he nodded and closed his eyes.

"Ready"

"Perfect, then remember" Cadence started to summon her magic and surrounded the group. "Just focus like we discussed and act like you are using the elements normally."

Calming their minds, they did as instructed, and soon a rainbow light emanated from the four mares as the group floated into the air. The rainbow slowly made its way into the sword and swirled around the hilt until it disappeared in a flash of light, turning the steel phosphorescent white.

Feeling the heat, the Prince almost dropped the sword but steeled his resolve, gripped it tighter, and thrust forward, releasing a solid beam of light that hit the statue squarely in the chest briefly before the spell broke off, and they fell to the ground soon after. Taking a deep breath, everyone felt like they just ran a marathon and needed to take a breather as Cadence helped them stand up.

"Did it work?" Blueblood asked Cadence. His answer came upon hearing something crack and, looking back, saw the stone starting to break, removing the scar and releasing Desire, who had reverted to the drake/equine shape that Scarlet received in the lobby, except this form was quadruped instead of bipedal.

Collapsing forward, Desire seems to need to catch her breath as well, while the ponies around the Prince have managed to recover and slowly approach her. Once her eyes adjusted and she saw the Prince, a smile appeared, and she slowly tried to crawl toward him. "You came b-b-back" Her eyes suddenly widened in horror, and she covered her snout while the Prince was startled and taken aback by the stutter and how her voice sounded a bit softer than usual. Like she just lost the confidence he was so used to her showing all the time.

"De...sire? Is that youl?"

"N-N-NO! N-not like this! P-P-Please, don't look at me" She retreated and hid her face in shame.

"Desire, what is wrong? It's me, Blueblood, I know things between are... complicated, but you don't need to be afraid of..."

"Save your breath, partner" AJ stopped him by placing a hoof on his shoulder and shaking her head. "She's not Desire."

"So this is the real you, isn't it, darling?" Rarity questioned with a raised eyebrow as the girls approached the mare in sorrow.

"The real Scarlet," Fluttershy answered the question plaguing Prince Blueblood, making his eyes widen with the realization.

"Wait, REAL Scarlet? So the mare I met with all this time? The Scarlet everyone knows..."

"Yep, completely fake," Pinkie sighed in disappointment. "Desy always made you act that way, right Scarly?"

The mare slowly looked at them and, after looking around, ultimately nodded in defeat before staring down, "S-S-She only g-g-gave me s-some confidence, t-t-that's all!"

"Scarlet is not even your real name, isn't it?" AJ questioned her. "Ever since we merged heads, I felt something was off about you like you were trying to lie to yourself all the time. Partner, what the hay? How long have you been living like this?" The farmer asked with pity.

"I-It none of your b-b-business!" She snapped back before turning to the Prince. "A-A-And you made an m-m-mistake! I told you it was m-m-me, please seal me and r-r-release my friend. S-She is innocent!" She stomped the ground and lost her balance when a small tree emerged and lifted her up, startling everyone as she almost fell if not for Blueblood's intervention

"Are you ok, Sca...ah miss?" The second the mare saw how close it was, she turned red and rushed to a corner of the room as she mumbled nonsense and occasionally giggled. Blueblood was only able to blink at this reaction.

"...Ok, that is even weirder than the tree. Seriously, what the heck is going on!" He turned to the rest, "Did we cast the spell wrong? Oh god, did we mess up their heads?"

"Relax, darling," Rarity consoled him. "Everything went fine...ish." She said, looking at the mare in question. "If I were to hazard a guess, I say that because we didn't have all the elements, the spell didn't quite take as expected, like what happened with Discord."

"Makes sense. This was a shoot in the dark, after all." Cadence added. "It wasn't a one hundred percent guarantee that the spell would work the same, but all things considered, I say we almost got it right."

"So what, they were just half-released?" Blueblood took several glances between them and the nervous mare.

Pinkie nodded. "Seems like it, with half of Desi's magic in control of Not Scarly and no evil spirit to help her act like something she is not, leaving only the real her"

"Which seems to be a nervous and shy fan girl, from the looks of things." Rarity smiled and nodded before turning to Blueblood. "Darling, would you be a dear and leave this to us?"

"Huh?" He looked back at her in surprise. "Are you sure?"

"This seems like a job for some good old-fashioned girl talk. You saw what happened. The poor dear shook like a leaf after just being near her crush. It would be best if we help her relax, and unfortunately, you are not helping with that."

"O...k, I will be outside if you need me then." The Prince was a bit unsure but decided to trust his friends and went to wait outside.

"N-N-NO! Don't go" The mare tried to stop him from leaving, but Fluttershy cut her off. Blueblood looked back and got worried, but Cadence motioned for him to go and to trust them. He finally complied, closing the door behind him.

"It ok, Scarlet, it ok." Fluttershy tried to calm her down while preventing her from chasing after the Prince. "We only want to talk" 

The mare finally calmed down and scowled at the caretaker while Fluttershy only smiled. "Y-Y-you are just g-g-gonna a poke fun at how I t-t-talk."

"No, we are not. We want to help you."

The mare looked at Fluttershy skeptically.

"Just close your eyes to calm down, and think of the words in your head. Try to repeat them a couple of times before saying them."

She still looked unsure but complied and took a deep breath with closed eyes until she relaxed. "What do you want?" She backed away, startled, and held her throat. "How...how did you know it would work?"

"I suffered from a stutter when I was a little too, and I still remember the tricks to fight against it." Fluttershy admitted

"And as Fluttershy says, we only wanted to chat darling, mare to mare," Rarity approached before smiling. "Considering how you make us share our minds, you owe us at least that courtesy."

The mare only rolled her eyes and sighed "...Fine, but does SHE have to be...?"

"Yes, she has!" Cadence interrupted her with a stern and forced smile on her face. "And I will gladly list your EVERY single crime and the reason why it is so if you insist, so please miss, spare us the drama and let's all talk like civilized mares." She reminded her before the mare could protest.

The mare only sighed once more in defeat and looked down. "What do you want from me?"

"Well, for starters, it would be nice if you could tell us your real name, darling."

After grumbling and crossing her forehooves, the mare sat down and looked away. "My name is Penny Ink Rose, Rosy to my friends," She confessed with a hint of sorrow. "I'm a simple run-of-the-mill novelist from a small town in the countryside with no pony that would want to read her romance novels. Not until a friend helped me become the strong and confident Scarlet Lips."

"Well, Penny, it's nice to meet you finally. My name is Pinkie." The mare in question offered her hoof to Penny, who looked at her with a deadpan after staring at her.

"Are you serious?"

"Why not?" Pinkie shrugged. "It's never too late to start over after learning your lesson and making up for being a meany mare."

"Speaking of," AJ spoke up, "I'm 'fraid this premature release isn't coming for free, partner. There's quite the mess that you two need to fix."

"Mess? What mess?" Penny blinked owlishly, looking at all the mares who exchanged glances.

"So you don't know? Hate to break it to your partner, but it seems like Desire wasn't done messing with the world. And the residents in the hotel and we were the only ones spared. The rest of the world is still sleeping inside giant flowers," AJ explained.

"What? No, that's not possible. Desire would never do that. When we turned to st-t-tone, all her plants should have withered and died, just like the pink glasses spell. There has to be some other reason for the plants to exist still... unless..." Her eyes went wide as she slowly brought her hoof to her mouth. "Oh no"

"What is it, darling?"

She was about to explain when an idea popped into her head "If I tell you, would you let Desire walk free?"

"Penny, I'm sorry to tell you, but you aren't in any position to be making..." Cadence shook her head.

"She walks free," Penny insisted, stomping the ground and creating more vegetation that grew out of control briefly. One vine snatched at Cadence's back hoof before she cut it with her magic. "That is my condition. As I said, this was all my idea and nobody else's. I was the one using Desire's power. She is innocent. So if you want my help and trust me, you need it, from what I know, then that is my condition." She mulled over another idea for a moment as well. "A-A-And a date with Prince Blueblood, AND he has to be the one that says my friend walk's free. I don't trust you." She finishes standing resolutely and crossing her forehooves while glaring at Cadence.

"You can't be serious?! The world is upside down, and you want to make a deal?! Do you know how bad things are outside? Do you know how many crimes of yours we are overlooking right now!? How close were you to giving Blueblood a mental breakdown?! By law, I should be bucking your sorry flank right into a cell and..." Fluttershy put a wing in front of AJ, stopping her rants.

"Are you sure you want things to go this way, Penny?" Rarity questioned her with a raised eyebrow.

"What do you mean?"

"Take it from a fan who had tunnel vision once and could only think of herself. That dream you are having? Blueblood sweeping you off of your hooves and making you his wife? That happily ever after princess fairy tale? It will never happen, not as long as you keep that mentality."

"Why not?!" Penny wailed in desperation before pointing at Cadence, "SHE got hers! She already had everything and still wanted more and stole my life. It's not fair! She gets to keep her crown, kingdom, and Prince charming. Why not m-m-me!?"

"Please tell me I wasn't like that." Rarity mumbled and brought her hoof up to massage her forehead beneath her horn, shaking it in embarrassment. "Are you listening to yourself right now!"

Startled, Penny backed away from Rarity. "Sure. Keep complaining. It should be MY wedding, MY Prince, MY tiara, MY life as a princess, ME, ME, ME!!! That is how you are sounding right now!" Rarity kept advancing as Penny slowly backed away in fear. "Sure, you took the time to find out what he likes and spent time with him. You went to the extreme to become only what he likes and nothing more, but did you ever let him see you for who you truly are?"

"What?"

"A relationship based on lies is and will always be a hollow and cold one partner," AJ stepped in. "If only you had let him see the real you at least once, you might have had a chance but instead. You forced him to show the real Blueblood to everyone while you are set on becoming his ideal mare and nothing else. Trust me. It would have never worked." AJ looked at her with pity. "I'm sorry, sugarcube, but even with all of Desire's magic, it would never have been real love, and deep inside, you know it."

"But that's the only way," Penny whispered, looking down in sorrow. "No prince would ever love a simple novelist from a random town. I need to be Scarlet. That's the only way he would ever love me."

The room went quiet as Rarity backed away and pitied the poor mare sobbing in front of her.

"Wanna bet?" Pinkie suddenly asked, catching everyone's attention as Penny stared at the party mare

"What are you talking about?"

"You have kept going on and on about being only what Blueblood wants. You keep trying to get prettier and prettier, thinking it's the only way he would notice." She adjusted her mane a little "But what if I told you that all he wants is to meet Penny." She smiled conspiratorially and quirked an eyebrow.

"You are lying. Why? Wh-what would Blueblood want with a simple...?"

"Ap, p, p, p," Pinkie stopped her and put her hoof on her mouth. "I said, wanna bet? He still got all concerned when you almost fell earlier. Don't you want to be hugged at least once more?"

The flowers blooming in Penny's mane were all that Pinkie needed for an answer. "So, how about a little bet? If I win and prove to you that Bluey would like you better by being yourself, you help us save Equestria, and if you win," She thinks about tapping her chin, "I'll throw you a wedding party, plus Cadence will be the one to marry you two here in the hotel."

" I will do... WHAT?!" Cadence looked at Pinkie like she just grew a second head, but the party mare only winked at her and nodded. "P-Pinkie, what are you doing?! I never agreed to..."

Cadence tried to protest, but Pinkie interrupted her before she could say anything else. 

"So what do you say, Penny? Deal?" She released the novelist mares mouth and extended her hoof to Penny, who eyes her suspiciously before looking at the still-scared Cadence and then smiled as she completed the gesture

"Deal"

"GREAT! First of all, let's take care of all this makeup!" Pinkie pulled several boxes of makeup remover from her mane.

"Wait, what? No!" The unicorn back away in fear

"Don't you want your hubby?" Pinkie reminded her, making Penny bite her lip.

"Well yeah, b-but this is...and it too sudden plus..."

"Penny," Fluttershy gives her a deadpan look, "You already agreed."

With no way out, the unicorn only sighed, "C-can I at least keep a bit of eyeshadow and lipstick?"

"Of course, darling!" Rarity intervened before Pinkie could answer, "We aren't monsters. Here, let me help you out." The two mares started working on removing the excess makeup from Penny's face as Cadence looked at them with worry.

"Don't worry, princess," AJ consoled the distressed Princess. "Pinkie knows what she is doing."

"I hope she does, AJ. I don't want my first time marrying a couple to be like this." She confessed as AJ and Fluttershy kept trying to calm her down.

One and a half hours later

Pacing back and forth in front of the entrance, Prince Blueblood kept glancing at the door, wondering what Cadence and the rest could be talking about with Scarlet.

She didn't even use her real name? Scarlet, I always had this gut feeling, and something about you didn't sit right with me, but this? Having an alias? A completely different personality? Having an endless as a friend? Night!

Breathing hard through his nose, he stopped and closed his eyes to calm down before looking back at the door.

I know it doesn't matter. I should be focusing on the mission. And I'm sure Candy and the rest will be able to convince her, even as her persona, that mare was always reasonable and willing to negotiate. But even still...Scarlet Lips, who are you?

As if to answer his question, the door opened, and the Prince was slightly startled when a fog emerged from the entrance and wafted forward, followed immediately by the distinctive smell of hair spray and perfume.

What the heck? Why are they playing with each other manes and applying makeup? Where did they even get...oh right, Pinkie.

Cadence poked her head from the entrance and cast her gaze around until she saw Blueblood and smiled. Once he looked at her, he noticed that she didn't seem to have changed her mane makeup. "Oh, there you are, Bluey" She exited the room, closing the door behind her "Thanks for waiting."

"How did it go? Is she willing to help?" He asked with some worry as Cadence looked away.

"We are still working on it, more or less, and we are gonna need you to speak with her."

"To convince her?"

"Sort of," She replied, trying to find the right words before sighing. "Bluey, before you go inside, there is something you must know. The mare you knew all this time...Her real name is Penny, and behind the mask of Scarlet, she is an easily frightened and shy fan of yours, so please be gentle and approach her slowly, ok?"

"Ah, ok, sure. Aunt Luna taught me how to approach shy fans and all, and it's just..." He looks at the door. " I never thought I would be using those lessons on scar...I mean! Penny of all ponies."

"Just remember, she might act differently, but deep inside, she is still the same mare obsessed with you and willing to go to unhealthy extremes to reach you." Cadence warned him before he opened the door. He nodded once and braced himself for anything as he opened the door and marched in.

Once inside, the Prince was again surprised by Pinkie's powers and prowess, transforming an empty room into an indoor garden with marble chairs, three trees, and even a gazebo where the rest of the manes six were huddled.

"Ta-Da!" Pinkie appeared next to the Prince. "Did you like it?"

"Pinkie, if you ever want to do something besides parties or pastries. I see a bright future for you as an interior decorator," He commented without missing a beat as he admired the place.

"Aww, stop it. You are going to make me blush!" Pinkie waved a dismissive hoof at him before bringing her frontal ones to her cheeks as she giggled with some heat in her cheeks. The two kept advancing toward the group until AJ noticed them and motioned for the others to step aside so the Prince could finally see Penny, as mentioned earlier, recoil slightly as she nervously rubbed her left forehoof with the other as she kept her gaze firmly on the ground while stealing occasional glances at the Prince. She was sporting a brand new manestyle. Instead of being a copy of Rarity, her mane was now straight but still slightly messy, she had styled her hair into a pretzel ponytail hairstyle with a thick bang of hair covering one of her eyes, and her tail was brushed entirely straight.

"Ah, miss Penny?" He approached cautiously as the other mares gave them room to talk but not before Pinkie gave the poor mare a slight push of encouragement

"H-Hello, your highness" She finally mustered the courage to look at him and show how she had removed almost all of her makeup. "T-This is a bit awkward, and you are probably wondering, but yes. What you see is..." She nervously extends her frontal hooves "...the real me. Ah... ta~da," She tried to joke as he remained quiet, looking at her in surprise until she recoiled again.

"You hate it. I knew it!" She seemed to shrink into herself before looking away and teetering on the verge of tears until Blueblood intervened.

"N-No! No! Is not that" He rushed forward and knelt in front of her, putting a hoof on her shoulder, making her shiver. "I was only slightly surprised by your new look. I swear." Having recovered, he smiled and used his other hoof to touch her chin and gently guide her eyes to meet his. It was her turn to be stunned by the Prince. "And frankly, I kind of like this look better."

"Y-Y-You do?"

"Yeah, sure, Scarlet was confident, bold, and strong, but you know what she wasn't? Real, or rather she was only a part of a whole. But now that I finally see the rest of Penny? Well, I feel like I'm finally meeting the real you. The mare that wanted to be my friend." He poked her nose to lighten the mood. "Nothing would make me happier than to know her better." He took out a handkerchief and offered it to her as piano music started to play in the background. Part of him was confused about where it was coming from but decided to let it slide as he tried to calm the mare down and boost her confidence.


 



"~Lift your head, wipe off that mascara, take my Kleenex, wipe that lipstick away.~" In a trance at his voice, she took the tissue and slowly worked on removing the remaining of her makeup.

"~No need for pretending...lies, scheming of fakes. If you still want a friend, I'm here for the real you!~ Her eyes shined in admiration as he continued.

"~Show me your face, clear as the morning. I know we started bad, but it is far from too lateeeeee.~ With a smile, he slowly helped her stand up and grabbed onto her hoof as flowers slowly started to bloom from her mane.

~Suddenly, I see more! Standing beside me~ He circled her ~You need no makeup! Enough with the games!~

~Suddenly, I see more! A chance for a friendship! If only you let me...see your real face~

Unable to hold back tears, she sobbed and got all teary-eyed before launching at him and hugging his chest as she openly cried in happiness, "Prince Blueblood! Thank you, thank you, thank yoooouuuu! I was so scared that you would think I was ugly I..."

Blueblood couldn't make sense of the rest of her words as he smiled after his initial surprise and patted her head. "There, there, Penny, let it all out."

Meanwhile, Pinkie smirked and hoof-bumped Fluttershy as the mares smiled, "Oh, she is in"

"Wouldn't expect anything less from Blueblood. I taught him about harmless flirting, after all." Rarity beamed in pride at the display.

Cadence, who had entered after the two, sighed in relief once she saw all of that unfold. "Thank the stars" Once she recovered, her ear twitched, and the Princess looked back to Rarity. "I'm sorry you taught him what now?"
> A Penny For A Friend? (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once Penny managed to calm down enough, and right after having agreed and been filled in on their plan, the self-appointed avatar of Desire began sharing what she knew would be valuable information.

"You made a flower that feeds on chaos?" AJ repeated, blinking a couple of times as Penny nodded.

"It's a specially designed trap we made to keep Discord out of our manes while we conquered Equestria, yes." She sighed in embarrassment. "Now that I have time to think about it, I realize how extreme that plan was in hindsight, and who knows how many ponies were zombified before Discord arrived and sprung the trap. Not to mention that it wasn't needed in the end because we grabbed him before he could spring it...and then he sprung it anyway when he r-returned there." She looked back at the group and gave them a weak smile. "On the bright side, that means the infection has stopped, and all the plants and infected ponies are now converging on his body...which then transformed into a plant dragon that turned the Crystal empire into a giant garden, trapping everyone inside and blocking all magic, even teleportation."

She offered a weak smile at Cadence, but when she only remained quiet while staring at the poor novelist, Penny had no choice but to recoil a little "I can fix it, don't worry! Just need to get close enough to the dragon plant to cancel the spell."

"Don't worry; I will make sure that happens." Cadence finally spoke up.

"And what about your other spell, sugar cube?" AJ reminded the group, "Do you also need to get close to make those giant flowers disappear."

"Unfortunately, with those, things get a bit tricky. You see, I can't undo that spell, and neither can Desire now since the one that cast them is her brother."

"What?" The group exclaimed in surprise

"Yeah, Desire didn't want to have any loose ends, so she collected a favor from her brother Dream and between the two of them, they created those flowers. The pollen is actually his sand keeping everyone asleep. If they are still there, it means Dream has control over them now."

"Wait, Dream? There's another endless that controls dreams?" Cadence asks in shock, "How come Aunt Luna has never mentioned him before? Isn't she the mare of dreams?"

Penny chuckled and shook her head a little "Yeah; I asked something similar once. Dream is the laziest of all endless, so much so that he has no issue with the princess taking his title and doing his job. Nobody has ever heard of him in more than a millennia. According to Desire, the only thing Dream wants is peace and quiet to sleep indefinitely."

"If that is all he wants, why help in the first place? Or keep things going?"

"I don't know, even Desire told me how difficult and unpredictable it is working with him, but he always keeps his word, all endless do, actually. Not even Discord can break a promise. That is why he works in loopholes when making one."

"That...explains a lot," Rarity mentioned remembering their first encounter with him and how he technically DID say where the elements were in the form of a riddle.

"Great, there is another spirit we need to be worried about." AJ sighed in exhaustion. "Do you even know what he looks like or where he could be?"

"For the first question, yes, have you ever heard of the legend of the sand hawk?"

"Don't you mean the sandman?" Blueblood asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Man? Oh right! It must be their human equivalent." Penny nodded a couple of times before continuing, "And I suppose that would be a no"

"The sand hawk is a nursing rhyme partner." AJ explained, "Granny used to sing it to all of us when we were little colts and fillies." She blushed and then looked away. "But don't expect me to sing it now. It embarrassing"

"Oh! Oh! I know it. My mommy used to sing it to me all the time" Pinkie volunteered

"~Mr. Sand Hawk! Bring me a dream~

~Make him the cutest I could ever seen~

~Give it some sand to play on the covers!~

~And a yummy pastry to make it a wonder~

~Mr. Sand Hawk! Please let me play~

~On your back made of granite and mirth~

~And use your wings to slide on deserts for hours~

~Mr. Sand Hawk, why do you cheat?~

~in staring contests! With four eyes to play...~

Pinkie got lost in the chorus as the rest let her finish her song in the piece "So you are saying that Sand Hawk all this time was Dream?"

Penny nodded once. "Yep, I was shocked when I heard about it for the first time too. According to Desire, he is a griffin made of golden sand the size of a small hill with four wings, two tails, and four eyes. He can also change his size at will and well. All he does and wants to do is to sleep in a quiet place. I'm sorry, but I don't know where he could be right now. Maybe Desire knows, but I only know what she told me. When I let her out, I allowed her to have some fun and stretch her legs since it had been a  millennium since she was free. I couldn't deny that to her.

It wasn't until I was here that she gave me back complete control, or we both were in control of our bodies. I only know that Dream is the reason why everyone is asleep. For how unpredictable he is, he could still be in his own plane of existence."

"That is ok, Penny. At the very least, we can make more sense of everything happening, and waking everyone up isn't our priority right now." Blueblood concluded. "For now, I need you to tell all of this to the other rulers, so we all are on the same page and can keep an eye for that spirit." He turned around and prepared to leave before turning back once again to regard Penny. "Is there anything else I should know?"

"Yes, while I still have plenty, it never hurts if I collect more desire and be prepared, so maybe you could..."

"Thank you, Penny!" Cadence stood in between the two with a glare and a forced smile. "I'll take care of that if needed." She then looked at Blueblood. "You can go, Bluey. We can take it from here."

"Got it. Thank you girls and Penny, thank you so much for helping us."

"My pleasure" She then brought a hoof to her chest. "I have to say. This is kind of weird. I have never helped others like this before. It...feels nice."

"Glad to hear that, Penny." Fluttershy smiled before her expression turned a bit somber. "Unfortunately, we aren't done with you just yet."

"Took the words right out of my mouth, sugar cube." AJ agreed. "We still need to talk about what you did to all of us."

Penny only sighed in surrender and nodded with closed eyes. "I was afraid of that, but I suppose it is inevitable. Even more, if we are going to work together." She smiled slightly, "I've been meaning to talk with you all anyways."

That caught the girl's attention as Penny played with her mane. "Another thing Desire's magic granted me is the ability to see into pony's hearts, and I can sort of see a certain flame ignited in all of yours." She confessed with some excitement and brought her hooves to her mouth. "It could still work." She mumbled, making the mares feel a tad bit uncomfortable while forcing Cadence to contain her anger, as she only blew some steam from her nose while glaring at the novelist.

A couple of hours later

After discussing the new information with his peers, Blueblood and the other rulers deliberated on their course of action, finding that not much had changed, and they agreed to keep a lookout for the spirit.

"This changes nothing save being a rescue mission instead of a reconnaissance mission." Pharynx spoke up.

"But we shouldn't take the news of Dream lightly either. The fact that we don't know exactly where he is or how to operate around him is concerning." Nefertiti pointed out. "What's to say that we are only safe from his influence inside the hotel?"

"According to Penny, Dream is known as the laziest of all endless. Considering how my aunt Luna has held the title of a mare of dreams without meeting him once, I am convinced enough to believe her." Blueblood argued. "If he wanted to trap us, he would have done it already. We are safe for now."

"Still, Nefi makes a good point, Blueblood," Hestia pointed at the table. "As Dream is responsible for all those flowers holding the world hostage. We will have to deal with him eventually. Maybe it would be best if we were prepared." They all nodded and glanced at one another before turning to Blueblood.

"You are right, but we should approach this situation carefully. If any of us find him while on our mission. Sierra, do you think you could come up with..."

"Say no more, Blueblood" She winked at him, "I'm great at multi-tasking. Just give me some time and the right tools, and I will give you something to deal with the sky AND that spirit."

"Great, thanks"

"Say Blue. Didn't you have some sort of special power to tap into dreams and such? The Blood Moon thingy?" Skystar reminded him. "Can't you enter into the dreams and look for him there?"

"I can, but I'm not sure if I should test out my dusk form with the sky as it is currently." He explained with some worry. "With the night and day sharing space simultaneously, I might be blocked off from that form...or risk overcharging. But your idea could work with something I had in mind." He started to pounder. "Originally, I was thinking of sending Pinkie into the dream realm on a scouting mission for Princess Luna to see if she can help. Knowing about Dream, she would only have to be on the lookout for that spirit too."

"The party planner? That is what you had in store for her? Why give her that task instead of going yourself?" Triceps asked with a raised eyebrow.

"I thought about it but ultimately decided that she was the best option between the two. Trust me, for how confusing and bizarre the dreamscape can become, a pony like Pinkie would feel right at home." He explained confidently. "Plus, she is also an excellent tracker with all those hide-and-seek games, heck she might consider this mission one of them, which would work to our advantage."

The royals glanced at one another before agreeing, "Makes sense, but how exactly were you planning on sending her there?" Hestia inquired, tilting her head.

"Let me worry about those details. For now, does this information change anything else?"

Everyone pondered about it before collectively shaking their heads. "Good, then the plan is still on track" Blueblood yawned and covered his mouth. "And right on time too. We better grab some sleep. Tomorrow is a big day for all of us."

Once they all said their goodbyes, Blueblood went to see Pinkie Pie to discuss the special mission he had planned for her.

"You want me to go explore the dream realm?" Pinkie repeated in excitement as the Prince nodded.

"I know this seems like a weird request, but I couldn't think of anyone better to explore the bizarre world of the dreamscape." He chuckled a little "Plus, I'm sure your Pinkie sense would keep you safe."

"Oh, will it be like a super secret spy mission? Do you want me to retrieve something important? Or maybe take pictures of something you are looking for?" She rapidly asked, suddenly dressing in an all-black outfit with a bizarre set of goggles with three green lenses on them as she moved around until she was upside down behind him.

"Nope," He tapped her head to stop her, "I need you to look for Princess Luna and be on guard for Dream."

She dropped down and looked at him in surprise. "Ah, I get it! Because she is probably asleep, and since she is the mare of dreams..."

"Exactly, we wake her up, and she can wake everyone up or help us deal with Dream." He then handed over the collar Luna gave him when he was trying to make amends with ponies in Canterlot. "This collar has a special enchantment that lets Aunt Luna see what I was doing, but it can work both ways."

Charging his horn, he cast a spell of his own on the necklace before handing it over to Pinkie. "I put a tracking spell and part of my Nightmare Opera spell into it. It can be tricky to use, but if you wear this and follow my instructions..."

"No need!" Pinkie grabbed the collar and put it on before flashing an earpiece. "Sierra already gave me a listen-to-ear so that we can talk." She pantomimed unzipping the air, and to bluebloods surprise, she opened a portal into the dreamscape.

"Wha...But I haven't told you how to use it..." She interrupted the Prince by kissing his cheek.

"Don't worry, Bluey, you can count on me. I will look after Princess Luna and help you wake everyone up."

Recovering, Blueblood smiled and hugged the party mare. "Tell me if you see anything or need any help, and be careful out there, ok?"

"Will do! Super Secret Pink agent out!" She exclaimed before jumping back into the portal, which closed once she entered, leaving him alone to chuckle

I knew she was the right mare for the job. Boy, all of Equus is about to have some strange dreams. He laughed internally at all the things Pinkie might do in the dreamscape as he went to rest for his respective mission.

The next day

Once the Prince explained where Pinkie had gone, with the preparations ready and every team checking their equipment before departing, the only thing left was for Blueblood to address the public one last time before boarding his designated train.

"Ponies of Equestria, or rather. Citizens of all of Equss. I have heard how the last couple of weeks has been tumultuous, to say the least." Blueblood addresses the general public alongside the other royals. "We have heard your voices. We understand how every creature has every reason to be afraid. But know this, your rulers haven't failed you yet. Quite the contrary. These events have only strengthened our resolve and forged stronger bonds of unity under the banner of friendship and with a single goal to achieve!" He cast a quick glance at his peers before continuing. "And while dire, all of you can rest easy knowing that there is no looming danger, and even if any threat should manifest, you couldn't ask for a better refuge than what stands before you. The Golden Rose will continue to serve. It is well equipped, staffed, guarded, and prepared for your continued survival and comfort. So forget your worries and relax as the society of heirs works tirelessly to fix the world!"

The audience cheered, and now, with that out of the way, the royals gathered around to ensure everyone was on the same page. "Remember, maintain radio communication at all times unless something forces you to go silent." Sparrow reminds them. "If one link brakes without warning, I will send a platoon to investigate."

"I'm impressed, little pony. You seem like a quick learner," Sierra smirked at him. "Look at you, mastering high-tech language like it's nothing."

"Just doing my job, ma'am" Sparrow maintained his military professionalism as the diamond dog nodded before looking at everyone. "Everyone remembers how the comlinks work?" They all nodded and activated their earpieces.

"Let's do this" Breaking the circle, the royals said their goodbyes and started boarding their respective trains, with Blueblood and the rest of the elements being the last ones to board. The Prince, in particular, felt a bit ashamed.

"I am so sorry things ended up like this. I wanted to discuss "us" properly, but well..."

Fluttershy interrupted him by lifting her hoof. "Say no more, Blueblood. We understand." She lowered her leg and smiled at him along with the other mares. "We can discuss this properly once we fix the sky."

"Yeah, partner, no need to do it all at once."

"Darling, I, more than anyone, understand how it can be overwhelming when you have to take on more than one order. Definitely would have preferred it if we came first, but..." Fluttershy lightly jabbed her side in response. "...what I mean is, we just figure out our emotions, no need to speed things up either."

"Thank you, girls, but at the very least, I owe you this. To all of you," He turned on his link, "Pinkie, can you hear me?"

"Hi, Bluey! How did you get inside my mind? Oh, is this part of what this collar can do?" Pinkie immediately asked with her usual cheerful tone, making him laugh.

"It's the earpiece, silly. Let me put you in conference with AJ, Shy, and Rarity. You all need to hear this."

"Oki Dokey Loki" Once the conference was set up, Blueblood addressed the group, "Listen, while Penny's make us realize a lot. The truth is...I'm not ready to start a herd. At least, I don't want to start one just because a spirit forced me to see all of you in, for lack of a better word, an erotic light."

All the mare's faces blushed immediately, and the Prince didn't need to see her to know that Pinkie had stopped and was in the same position as the rest. "So please don't give me your answers yet, and let's try to move on from this whole ordeal. But once everything calms down, and you all have had a chance to sort this out, and if you are still interested. Would you like to form a herd with me?" He asked hopefully as the mares relaxed and smiled at him once more.

"You already know my answer, partner, but sure let's do that." AJ placed her hoof on his shoulder. "We can wait until after this mess is sorted out to define all this messy, mushy stuff."

"If there is anything I know, it is patience. So there would be no complaining on my part." Rarity continued with a nod. "I just hope you don't mind if I take a bit of pride in knowing that I turned the head of a prince."

They all shared a laugh and rolled their eyes.

"I like it. It sounds like a surprise party where you get a surprise even when you know it's coming. Hmmm, how does that work anyway?" Pinkie pondered before laughing. "Oh well, we can figure it out once we are done here."

"I don't have an issue with waiting, but I was thinking. Would it stop with just us?" Fluttershy asked with a raised eyebrow, confusing the Prince.

"What do you mean?"

The shy pegasus glanced at Sierra and Nefertiti, glaring at each other while waiting for Blueblood and Rarity to board the train, while Skystar waved at her. Shaking her head, she turned to the prince "Nevermind! I'm getting too far ahead of myself, I like that idea, and I think it's perfect." She surprised him with a hug. "Especially since it is what you truly want."

"It is," Blueblood confirmed, returning the hug, which soon turned into a group hug. "Also, not to be mean, but maybe we should wait for a little while before we tell Twilight about us?"

"Oh yeah, darling, what happens here in Las Pegasus stays here in Las Pegasus!" Rarity nodded rapidly

"Yeah, perhaps it's best if we don't give Twilight a reason to have a mental freakout." AJ agreed with a roll of her eyes, fearing how Twilight might react.

"I'm a bit sad, but I wouldn't want to make her nervous or scared with something. We don't even know what it is yet," Fluttershy said as all the mares nodded.

"Plus, it will be one heck of a surprise party when we are ready," Pinkie added, making the group laugh.

"It sure is quite the news. But until then, be safe out there, ok?" Blueblood said, staring into their eyes.

"You too" Fluttershy took one last glance of concern at him before they broke the hug, and each of them went their separate ways. The whistling of trains announced their departure as all the soldiers and civilians waved goodbye to the royals wishing them good fortune on their respective missions.

Staring at the window, Blueblood waved back until they were too far away to see. The moment that happened, he let go of an exhausted breath and leaned back against his seat, And so it began.
> Recount Of Evils (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With the trip to Canterlot and Appaloosa taking two days despite their vehicle moving at full speed, the train's occupants took the opportunity to rest and settle their nerves while using clocks to determine the time.

With a yawn, Rarity groggily opened her eyes and checked the clock, noticing that it was past midnight before realizing that a certain prince was missing. Standing up, she looked around until she saw the light coming from the carriage next door, followed by princess Nefertiti, who was now wearing a nightgown. The pair slowly made their way toward the light, seemingly having realized the same thing.

Approaching the door, both ladies noticed the other before walking inside, only to discover that the Prince was focused on a corkboard with photos and pieces of paper strewn about.

"Darling?" Rarity asked with concern as both ladies made their way toward the Prince, who finally noticed the two.

"Hmm? Oh hey, Rarity, Nefi, shouldn't you two be asleep by now?"

"We should be the ones asking you that, Bluey." Nefertiti replied with a small degree of concern before turning to regard the board. "What's all of this?"

"It's a little project of mine. It is mostly a recounting of all the enemies I have faced so far." He suppressed a yawn before continuing, "Some time ago; Destine told me how there would be eight enemies representing each of these sins that I would have to face at some time or another to ascend and break her free from her prison."

"Ah yes, I have been meaning to ask this since you explained the situation with Destine." Nefi brought her thumb and index finger to her chin as she observed the board before glancing at the Prince. "Why exactly is your rite of ascension so violent and revolves around you fighting? Last I remember, for a pony to become an alicorn, they needed to unite a nation or master a new type of magic."

Blueblood nodded and chuckled. "Believe me, more than once. I have asked the same question. I have one or two theories about it, but the closest I can come to an answer? I think it's that my circumstances are different from my cousins. After all, neither of them has an endless..."

Rarity cleared her throat before he could finish the sentence, reminding him of Discord.

"...have the manifestation of Destiny itself asking them to set her free, or had the possibility of ascending just because they escaped their pre-written fate." He corrected himself. Making Rarity smile and nod as he tied a red string between two pins before addressing the ladies in the room. "Anyway, I thought this might come in handy, knowing more about the foes I have defeated. Who knows? Maybe it could even give me a clue about what to expect in the future." He tapped a photo of himself where all the strings seemed to connect. "So far, all I got is that all my opponents seem to have a direct link with me."

Nefertiti noticed the titles of the seven deadly sins in some of the pictures. "How exactly do you know they represent all of these things?"

"Oh, trust me, Nefi, I know. The evidence speaks for itself," Blueblood answered with confidence before sighing. "And well, back to your first question, I couldn't sleep, so when I noticed that my aunts packed all of this too. I thought that I might as well update and review my data."

"I see. Is that why you have a photo of Fort Knox?" Rarity asked, pointing at a picture, as Blueblood nodded in confirmation.

"Yep, and after Penny's past, he has the most curious backstory so far, believe it or not," Blueblood nodded twice before looking at the picture "Fort Knox, better known as the greed titan. The ex-owner of a chain of banks and other enterprises all over Equestria, this earth pony, surprisingly, had a humble origin. Born to a middle-class herd, his father worked as a banker, his alpha mother as an accountant, and his second mother a security guard.

"Since a young age, Fort was surrounded by money, security, and administration. Admiring his family, he wanted to follow in his father's steps, only to discover the cruel world of blackmail and exploitation courtesy of his father's boss. Set on taking revenge, Knox soon tasted power after acquiring dirt on the bank owner, who left his family alone. His noble intentions soon became an obsession, though, as he developed a network of bribes and blackmail. In his eyes, information was power, and if there was something he loved more than anything, it was this. He was drunk on it—a clear example of greed. In a way, he was the main network that Blue...that I used all the time. If I needed any dirt on anyone, Fort Knox usually brought it to my attention in exchange for me having the authorities turn a blind eye to his shadier dealings."

Before moving to the next photo, he put the title on top of Fort Knox.

"Jet Set and Upper Crust: self-centered as nobles could go and just as hollow as their heads. Both came from wealthy families that placed importance on image, and their family name above anything else save for lineage and the ability to continue with their traditions. Despite meeting as an arranged marriage to improve their families' standing, the two developed true feelings and eventually fell in love."

He sighed in disappointment. "Unfortunately, that is the only positive thing I can say about the couple. As I said, their families favored image over anything else, so of course, they were heavily involved in every activity that would bring the attention of the papers. As the best player or the best student, or the best dancer, you name it, and chances are they were that and had a picture taken of the subject at some point or another. That they earned any of those titles is very unlikely, though, to be honest. Bribes, blackmail, or simple downright falsification have always been their usual routine. The only thing they had any real aptitude for was swordsmanship and jewelry craft, and that first one may be debatable between maids and butlers until recently if the rumors are proven true. They were my ticket into noble's circles and centralized gossip on what was new and what social gatherings I should attend to improve my image and theirs by association further."

Blueblood nodded and placed another title underneath their picture "A clear example of unfiltered vanity" He then moved to the following image.

" the fake Nightmare Moon, the mare that doesn't need an introduction. Just residual sentient envy left behind on the moon from a long time ago, with its only objective being the creation of a repeat of the conflict that started on that dreadful night a thousand years ago." Blueblood sighed as he placed an image of Nightmare Moon on the board and wrote the appropriate title for her. "She was just an emotion, a sad reminder of my dear aunt's envy. And she fully intended to indoctrinate me into that belief."

He closed his eyes and rubbed his face tiredly.

"Interesting, and I see where this is going" Nefertiti nodded and placed the Lust title on top of an autographed photo of Penny Rose. "I mean, she had the spirit of desire to power her up. And now that you mention it, I'm intrigued. How did she obtain it in the first place?"

"I would like to know it too, though I barely have any information on her. I just discovered her real name yesterday and some about her origins." Blueblood sighed in frustration. "But I suppose it's better than nothing—Penny Ink Rose, aka Scarlet Lips. The well-renowned and popular novelist is known for her stories of romance and adult content. Similarly to Knox, Penny had humble beginnings in Baltimore with loving parents and a passion for love stories. Since she was a kid, the concept fascinated her, and she loved to hear love stories between their parents. Said love soon turned into curiosity as she asked the same to their parents' friends, neighbors, and any pony willing to share."

"Eventually, she graduated from hearing to writing her own story and getting lost in her pages. At some point, she encountered Desire, and from the looks of things, she re-invented herself before moving to Canterlot, where she quickly rose through fame and fortune until she was formally recognized as a noble. Despite that, her title never defined her, and she only seemed to care about one thing, which was, unfortunately, a toxic obsession with me. As you said Nefi, she is a clear representation of Lust. She used to be my main source of insight in general in the city, and she is probably the reason why there were so many rumors about me being the ideal of the 'perfect prince,' another one of her delusions. "

Suppressing a yawn, Blueblood took a step back and admired the remaining titles. "And now there is only Sloth, Wrath, Gluttony, and Pride" He stared at the picture of Crossfire Tempo with pity until he felt his shoulders being touched by both ladies as they smiled reassuringly at him.

"I know it's hard, darling. We all are thinking about it, no matter how hard it must be for you to hear." Rarity mentioned.

"I don't know much about Equestria, but I do know about family disputes, and trust me, ignoring the issue right in front of you would only let the problem grow in size and scope until it reaches a point of no return." Nefi grabbed the picture and pinned it on the board for him. "So why don't you tell us about your godmother?"

With a defeated sigh, the Prince nodded before staring at the image of his third aunt. "Crossfire Tempo or Sound Stars, according to her old Wonderbolts team. The flight team leader three generations ago and the current owner of the Golden Mirage." he began his explanation by connecting the picture with a red string. "She was a very close friend of my mother's. So much so that they named her my godmother, and she raised me soon after my parents died. She did just that for the first ten years while aunt Celestia allowed us to move to the castle. After a flying accident left her in a full body cast for years, plus the subsequent time in physical therapy to regain mobility."

He needed a moment to breathe before continuing the explanation, which hurt him more than he had imagined. "Then, at some point, something happened that made my aunt Celly cut all ties with her and forbade us from communicating indefinitely. I...I don't know what happened during that time. Some stories indicate that she drowned herself in her work and became a hermit in her spa, but that is pure speculation. Besides that and what happened recently, nothing else can be said about her."

He stared at the remaining four sins before putting them down. "She doesn't match any of the sins! But she took my aunts and...argh! I don't know what to believe." He held his head in frustration, too tired and distressed to think clearly.

The Prince had to hold his head and close his eyes from the headache he felt coming on until he opened them in surprise when he felt himself be pulled into a group hug between Rarity and Nefertiti, the former shushing him while petting his head.

"It's ok darling, it's ok, just breathe in and relax. Let my voice soothe your worries." She instructed while massaging his head.

"Rarity is right, Blue. You are running yourself ragged here. I think it's time to call it a day. Why don't we leave the detective work here and let us find a way to help you go back to bed?" Nefi suggested looking at him in concern.

"Y-Yeah" He weakly nodded a couple of times. "Yeah, maybe you are right" Gently pushing both of them away, he turned around and headed to the door. "Last thing I want is to be sleep deprived when we are trying to save my aunts."

"There you go! Tell you what, why don't you go to the dining car and let me make you a special treat of mine to help you sleep?" Rarity suggested, "We will be right there with you after we turn off the lights here."

The Prince nodded and, holding back another yawn, left the carriage. Once gone, both mare and lioness looked at one another before staring at the board and the image of Crossfire Tempo.

"You are thinking the same thing I am, aren't you?" Nefi glanced at the tailor with pity, who could only nod in response.

"As much as I don't want to admit it, the clues are all there, the spa, the endless, the timing, the theme of everyone sleeping. I'm not sure how exactly it fits, but it sounds like somehow we are facing the vice of Sloth here." She used her magic and placed the corresponding pin under the picture of Tempo.

"I understand your confusion. I'm trying to figure it out myself." Nefi nodded. "Sloth is the vice of inaction, of having the means to stop evil or aid others or yourself and remain still, to be lazy around the world. This mare was banished to a spa for years after what happened to Blueblood. No matter the circumstances, it seems like she gave up fast."

"You think there's more at play here, dear?" Rarity looked at the princess with worry, who nodded and hummed in thought.

"That mare doesn't seem like the lazy type. She was a Wonderbolt, for Isis's sake. She doesn't seem like she was born into nobility or decided to take up an easy lifestyle. So for her to be banished like that raises many questions."

Nefi then looked at the remaining vices and a picture of Sharp Shooter. "And she's not the only one, this pegasus. Do you know anything about him?"

Rarity shook her head as Nefi pinned him on the board between Gluttony and Pride " His name keeps popping up here and there. He attempted to kill a prince, spent time organizing his own paramilitary group and seems involved in lots of shady business. That takes time, planning, and patience. Whoever this guy is, he has been thinking over this goal for a long time. So he could either be a very prideful noble or a power-hungry psycho. Either option is concerning."

"Don't mention we still know next to nothing about who could be wrath." Rarity looked at the last remaining vice as Nefi nodded. "Two unknowns. One hard to pin down what his sin is, and a mare that is hard to picture as a villain. Poor Blueblood has his hooves tied with a messy mystery."

"He sure does, which is why it's a good thing he has friends to help him solve it."

"Couldn't have said it better myself. He sure could use a friend by his side in his darkest hour" Nefi smiled at Rarity. "I promise to take good care of him."

There wasn't any malice in her tone. The tailor didn't find any reason to be afraid or concerned. Yet, something about that sentence made Rarity tense and want to watch out for the albino princess as they both exited after the Prince, only to be surprised to see Sierra chatting with the Prince as they shared a glass of milk.

"That infernal pup got ahead of me again! Oh, hell no!" And just as if a switch was turned, Nefi's attitude had a sudden 180 as she rushed to the Prince, and she and Sierra started competing for his attention. Rarity blinked a couple of times at the exchange before smiling, deciding that their antics could be of use to keep Blueblood's mind off of the problems ahead, at least for now.

Taking one last worried glance at the board behind her, Rarity turned off the lights and closed the door behind her as she joined the group.
> First Team, Return, Reunion And Recaps (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With the whistle of the train announcing their arrival. Blueblood guided the princesses into his home with their selected guards and Light Spear acting as their improvised escort. The sight of the castle so quiet and looming was enough to give the place an eerie atmosphere that, sure enough, put all the guards on edge. Furthermore, even if they didn't show it, the other princesses and Rarity seemed a bit wary of how quiet the castle was.

"Relax, everypony," Blueblood tried to calm everyone down as they advanced through the main entrance. "I know seeing the castle so quiet is very unsettling, but this is what we are here to fix, and we can be rest assured nothing would just appear out of thin air."

And on cue, a voice called to them off in the distance, as if the universe wanted to contradict his statement. "Oh, thank the old gods, finally! A platoon!" The voice of an excited mare caught everyone's attention, particularly the guards, who wasted no time and formed a steel wall around their charges. Defending the royals while brandishing their weapons in all directions, including the one that the voice came from. Judging by the clops getting louder, the speaker was fast approaching.

"Wait, that voice," Blueblood called out and moved one soldier to take a better look ahead of him. "Nonna?" He asked in time for princess Platinum to appear from the shadows.

"I knew that I couldn't be the only one! I tried calling everywhere, but only Pumpkin and Hurricane could answer, and I was just a ball of nerves thinking how defenseless the castle was while waiting..." Her ranting stopped once she glanced at the guards and, more importantly, at her grandson "Bluey, is that...?"

She didn't have time to finish asking her question before anyone could react, Blueblood had already made a mad dash toward the royal and brought her into a firm hug, shedding some tears in the process. "Thank god you are ok! I wasn't sure if you, Granny, and Momma were ok, but I'm so glad to hear it didn't reach you."

Having to take a moment to register what happened, Platinum finally relaxed and returned the gesture as the guards lowered their weapons and smiled. "You silly boy, I told you. Despite my radiance, we are golems. The three of us don't exactly sleep. Rather we go back briefly to the ethereal realm to relax."

Blueblood nodded and laughed, cleaning his face as they broke the hug. "Of course, I should've guessed that." Sniffing, he turned to his friends before looking at his grandmother. "Hope you don't mind, Nonna. I brought company."

"That is fine, dear." She patted his head. "Something tells me there is plenty to catch up on."

He nodded, and soon the royals issued orders to make the castle operational and less vulnerable to attack. At the same time, Blueblood took Platinum away to talk privately and help her catch up with recent events and their plan to fix things.

"You are gonna do what?!" She asked in complete shock. "Oh no, you don't. I forbid you to..." She wanted to continue, but Blueblood stopped her by holding one of her hooves.

"I understand your concern Nonna, but it has already been decided, and whatever you are about to say has already been thought of."

"But you are the active regent! Your people need you, Bluey! Now more than ever, you need to be a ruler."

He smiled and nodded. "Which I intend to do, and if memory serves me right, a wise, beautiful princess once taught me that being a ruler means knowing when to be confident and assertive and not let anyone else dictate your decisions."

That made the Princess pause, look down with a smile, and close her eyes. "Blueblood, that is most certainly not fair. Using my own teachings against me."

Without saying a word, he approached and hugged her. "Please believe in me, Nonna, from a logical point of view and by my reasoning. She is my auntie too. If she is another victim? If she needed my help just as much as Aunt Celly and Aunt Luna? This is also a family matter I need to solve."

"But leaving the castle..."

"I'm not abandoning it." He shook his head and broke the hug. "I'm leaving it in more than capable hands...and hooves, claws, paws...you get my point." He said, correcting himself. "Plus, I would rest much easier knowing you are also here to ensure nothing bad happens."

Sighing in defeat, Platinum could only close her eyes and shake her head. "Unbelievable, you truly are just like your mother," She mumbled.

"Hmm?" Blueblood raised an eyebrow, but before he could ask, Platinum smiled and nodded.

"I said you spoke like a true prince, and I'm so proud of you."

He chuckled lightly. "I had one incredible teacher to thank for that. I promise to be careful out there, Nonna."

"Oh, you better! Or you will be in for an earful upon your return, young man," She joked before lightly pushing him away. "Now go, save the world. I got the gist of things and can take it from here."

" Do you know where the vault is?" He asked in surprise

"Dear, please, what do you think was the first thing Celly put inside?" She smirked with a raised eyebrow.

The comment surprised the Prince but knowing that time was of the essence. He decided not to press much on the issue and left the room.

Once he was back at the entrance, Blueblood found Lieutenant Spear, Rarity, and the other Princesses waiting for him, who approached once he entered. "So, how did it go?" Rarity was the first one to speak as the Prince nodded. "Princess Platinum has been brought up to speed and ready to help with the plan. She even offered to help open the vault and keep an eye on things."

"Glad to hear it," Spear confirmed. "No offense, your highness, but having a member of the royal family in the castle would be a boost to the morale of our troops and erase their fears of entrusting the palace and our most dangerous items into the hooves of foreigners without meaning to offend of course your highnesses." He quickly apologized and bowed to the princesses, who had mixed reactions. Sky Star only shook her head, Nefi shrugged, and Sierra nodded.

"No need for apologies, Lieutenant. That is a legitimate concern to have. Even if our reputation for loyalty is well placed, entrusting so much so quickly could easily put anyone on edge." Sierra explained.

"No biggie, and I can see your point. I, too, would be a bit peeved if a stranger would need to rummage through my room for spare parts even if they explained it to me and summarized why it was a necessary evil." Nefi assured.

"Aww, don't worry, none taken. And we'll try to make sure neither you nor the rest of your guards feel uncomfortable while we are here." Skystar offered up a friendly smile.

With that out of the way, Blueblood addressed the group once more. "Well, with that taken care of and the troops in place, I say this is where we part ways."

"For now," Sierra added, puffing up her chest in pride, "You can count on me, Blueblood. With everything you have given me to work with, I will have everything done and running to speed things up. We might even drop by as reinforcements."

"I'm sure you could. Please don't overwork yourself, Sierra," Blueblood said. "Any of you, for that matter." He clarified, looking at the other mares. "While I trust your judgment completely, and I'm sure you three could construct something magnificent, I can't say the same with the vault. I only know that it contains countless forbidden and cursed artifacts that must be handled with extreme caution. So listen to what Nonna says, be more than careful, and always stick together." He instructed the group, making Skystar chuckle.

"You are making it sound like we are entering into a lion's den Bluey, don't worry. We will be fine. You're talking to the maker's team here." She said while posing in front of all.

"Makers?" Rarity and Sierra questioned with raised eyebrows as Skystar nodded rapidly, "Yeah, because the three of us love to make all sorts of things and have a knack for using what we have in our claw...ah, our arm's length!" She corrected mid-sentence, lightening the mood even more, "Now come on! We should hurry and get something done as soon as possible."

"Princess Skystar is right. We better begin our mission right away before Captain Raven gets worried." Spear reminded them and followed the hippogriff in, reaching up and activating his earpiece. "Here, Team A, contact. Our entrance was a success. We are moving now to explore the forbidden vault."

"We should be on our way then," Nefertiti reminded the Prince, patting his back before pointing at the door. "Let's go, Bluey. We have one long ride ahead of us."

"Just a moment," He said before looking to Sierra and Rarity. "I can't thank you enough for all your help, you two." He bowed his head. "From the bottom of my heart, thank you for aiding my fellow ponies and I in our time of need."

"Please, darling, even I think you are getting a touch too dramatic." Rarity lifted his head and smiled at him. "There is nothing that you need to thank us for. We have already agreed to the plan and have no complaints. You can trust us, and we will make something spectacular!"

"If there is anyone, I should be the one thanking you." Sierra remarked, kneeling so they could be at eye level. "Never in my life have I met anyone willing to put so much trust in me or allow me to express myself as you have." she confessed, putting her paw on his shoulder.

Smiling, Blueblood grabbed her arm in understanding. "Don't mention it. I know how it feels for others to suppress you and not let you be yourself. Plus, I'm dying to see what inventions you can make."

"Don't worry, I promise I will not disappoint, but in regards to thanks, I'm afraid that words would not be enough. There can only be one response for someone to allow me this much freedom and bring me so much joy." Out of nowhere, she grabbed his checks and smooshed his face until his mouth opened.

"Ah, Princess Sierra?" the Prince tried to speak as best he could.

"Wait, she is not going to... no, no! You wouldn't!" Nefertiti exclaimed in anger as Rarity could only gasp when out of nowhere, the Princess of the diamond dogs planted a kiss on Blueblood's lips, rendering everyone speechless by the sudden action. The room went quiet except for the diamond wolf's low moans, their lips moving together until she broke apart and stood up. Blueblood stood with his mouth hanging open and his eyes wide at the whole thing, dumbfounded.

"I hope you appreciated that, Prince Of Equestria." Looking up, the Prince stared a the wolf princess, who blushed while looking away and shyly covering her mouth with one hand. "It was my very first." Her claim didn't help make the situation any less tense. Luckily though, the mood relaxed once he saw a more relaxed smile on her face as she winked at him. "Just think of it as a good luck charm."

Her smirk turned smug while glancing at Nefertiti, who was, at the moment, simmering with rage. "And a little something to remember me by. Best of luck, Prince Blueblood." She closed her eyes and pressed her arm against her chest before bowing at him. "Until we meet again, I will keep you updated on any inventions we create or anything that happens."

"Aja" was the only thing he could say as Sierra chuckled and walked away. Rarity, not faring much better, could only regard Blueblood in shock. Her tongue is surprisingly long. He slowly returned to reality and stared at Rarity.

"I just...I, Rarity, I swear I…no way..."

"It's ok, darling." Rarity interrupts him as she slowly returns to her senses. "I saw it too. You didn't do anything wrong." Her surprise slowly turned into mild irritation. "Seems like the competition came sooner than I wanted," She mumbles to herself, leaving him alone with Nefertiti.

Well...that happened. But did she kiss me to spite Nefi? Thank me? or does Sierra...?" Shaking his head, Blueblood cleared his mind. One issue at a time! This is not the moment to start thinking about relationships! Only after I figure things out with the girls! Having that decided, he turned around and headed out the castle gates. "Let go, Nefi. We have a train to catch."

The cat didn't reply immediately but followed him nonetheless, still angry "That infernal cheating bitch, she downright stole my idea!" She exclaimed to no one in particular as Blueblood pretended that he didn't hear that and closed his eyes with a faint blush.

As they marched along, neither realized that princess Platinum witnessed everything with a smirk.

Oh, Blueblood, my sweet little grand nephew, is a heartbreaker. She shook her head, but not in disappointment, for it seemed that she was almost proud. And here I thought it skipped a generation. So glad to see the family legacy still lives on. Chuckling to herself, she turns around to greet the other princesses.

Sometime later, deep below the castle's main floor

Using an oil lamp, Princess Platinum guided the group through an old, dark, natural cave beneath the court, with a set of stairs being the only thing made by ponies. Spear and two other guards acted as rearguard and walked in time with the group maintaining vigil even if it was not necessary

"Watch your steps. The cave might be dry, but dust can be just as slippery as puddles of water, and this stair hasn't been used in a long time." Platinum warned them.

"I must say, part of me is disappointed," Sierra commented as she glanced at the walls around them.

"Why is that Sierra?" Skystar flew next to her.

"Well, it's just me nitpicking, but aren't we headed to where the most dangerous and powerful artifacts Equestria has ever acquired are stored? Shouldn't there be better security than a secret passage behind a bookshelf in the far corner of the royal library's forbidden section? It's a bit on the nose with that title, almost like you are advertising it."

"You would be surprised, dear," Platinum smirked. "Believe it or not, when thief or invaders wants to raid or steal something forbidden, they look for safes, fake walls, or places where you would logically hide stuff, more often then not they dismiss the obvious solution because they think it's a trap or it just too easy to be true." She tapped the side of her head. "A little mind game right there, and if that were to fail, who said this place is without security."

That caught everyone's attention as Platinum lifted the oil lamp. "Why do you think this place is so dark, and I'm using this rusty old lamp instead of a flashlight, a light spell, or even a torch? Dearest, you are looking at the key."

"Wait, to reach the vault, you need that lamp specifically?" Rarity pointed at the lamp as Platinum nodded.

"A present from Starswirl the Bearded himself, it may look like an old natural cave, sure, but the walls are imbued with so many powerful hexes and enchantments that they have merged with the darkness itself. Anyone trying to enter without the right items would get lost walking in a straight line."

"Oh, how does that work?" Skystar asked, eager to learn more, causing Platinum to laugh. 

"I'm sorry dear, I wouldn't know. I'm a princess, not a wizard. You would have to ask the caster in person. Starswirl only told me something about a loop in time-space and a wormhole at the end and the start of the length of these stairs. Long story short, without the lamp, you somehow keep walking down an infinite flight of stairs until the guards find out that you broke in and come find you or you...ah!" Platinum startled. The group stopped as light shown upon a corpse lying on the side of the stairs, next to it were tally marks reaching almost to the ceiling "...you starve to death" She sighed sorrowfully and shook her head "This poor naughty soul, probably so skillful a thief that no guard noticed him entering. He even solved the mind game about where to look. Too bad he used a torch instead of the lamp." Platinum observed, looking at the burnt-out torch lying next to him.

With a sigh, she turns to the rest. "Remind me to send a squad down to retrieve the body. The poor dear at least deserves a proper burial."

"Consider it done, your majesty." Spear responded with a salute. In contrast, the other princesses and mare nod and hug the wall opposite the corpse before they continued until finally, they reached the end of the stairs where the cave widened. Two imposing wooden doors stood to protect the entrance with a pedestal where one could place the lamp.

"We're here" Platinum turned around to look at the group with a severe expression. "Listen up. Knowing my Celly, she followed my instructions and labeled everything there, so if you see anything with the sign of a hoof cut in half by a lightning symbol, I can't stress this enough. Don't.Touch. It. That symbol means the item is cursed and can affect a pony through skin contact. Sierra dear, exactly what are you looking for?"

"Our main objective would be moving the celestial bodies, but something that could speed up travel would also be nice. I remember that Canterlot has zeppelins, if my memory serves me right. Would it be ok if I check those out too?"

"Oh! I like how that sounds! Please tell me I can help," Skystar pleaded, bringing her claws together and giving Sierra her puppy eyes.

"Sure, you all can, but first. I want to see what we can work with down here," Sierra said, excited as she snapped her fingers.

"Oh, I'm sure there might be something that will fit your needs, but remember, don't touch the objects with the warning sign, and stay close." Platinum reminded them one last time before placing the lamp on the pedestal and turning it 45 degrees clockwise, there was a series of clicks as a result, and the doors swung silently open, revealing a considerable number of crates, diamonds, gems, jewelry, weapons and other artifacts scattered around, even unworked pieces of metal ore emitting a low humming vibration.

The view alone was enough to make Sierra's tail wag uncontrollably. "Oh sweet Fenrir, is even more beautiful than I thought. Blueblood, you earned another kiss once I see you." Sierra mumbled as the group entered, Rarity flinching and getting tense at the Diamond wolf's comment before glaring at the Princess.

By Celestia, is this wolf direct, I better be careful, or she might take my Bluey away.
> Second Team, A Heart To Heart Over a Freezing Road (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Steeping out of the train, Pharynx doesn't waste time taking in the winter view before activating his earpiece. "Team Two reporting, we just exited at the train station, 20 miles away from the Crystal Empire'' He stared at the road ahead, which was currently overtaken by overgrown giant, thorny vines choking the train tracks, making it impossible for them to advance any further.

"The tracks are compromised by giant thorny vines, making it impossible for the train to advance. We will have to continue on foot from this point on"

"Understood. Keep me posted on anything else you find, and be on alert. According to Penny, the flora was created to contain the spirit of chaos, so you better assume the area would be crawling with all sorts of traps," Sparrow warned him before ending the call.

With a sigh, Pharynx looked behind him to see how Princess Cadence and Penny were still arguing, just like they had been doing since before the train had to make an emergency stop.

"See? What did I tell you?" Penny made her point by putting a hoof on one of the overgrown vines that finally withered and crumbled under its weight before turning to dust from her efforts to cancel the magic of its creation. "Just one single vine took me what? Five minutes to cancel, and there are 20 MILES worth of those straight ahead!" She complained, pointing at the numerous thorny vines blocking the way. "Even if I knew what I was doing, which it seems that I need to keep reminding you, I don't! Removing all those weeds will take months, even if I don't sleep or eat."

"And I keep telling you, half of her magic or not, this is still your doing, and between the two of you, you manage to take the entire world hostage. For pony's sake, you are holding the power of the tree of existence in your horn! Are you completely sure you can't do more than this?" Cadence gestured to the pile of dust, showing how she was equally irritated by this delay.

"Yes, again, these plants feed on chaos! Of course, it is as unpredictable as its target. I highly doubt Desi, and I could get rid of it that easily, even at full power."

"You made them!" They were inching closer to one another as Fluttershy remained in the middle, trying to keep things peaceful. "Ah, what do you say if we all took one tiny second to breathe?" She suggested, but the two mares didn't seem to be listening. "Ah, girls?"

With a sigh, Pharynx lowered his head, closed his eyes, and gave it a shake before marching to the arguing mares and roughly separating the two. "Ok, I had enough of your whining!"

"Hey!" They complained simultaneously, but the changeling prince was done listening to them at this point.

"No! You are going to listen to me, and you are going to listen now! I'm a changeling. I'm in tune with the emotional spectrum, so much so that I can taste emotions. Do you know what resentment and hostility taste like? Think of a lemon dipped in a glass full of tabasco and a heaping spoonful of dirt. DOES THAT SOUND TASTY TO YOU?!" He yelled at them, making them flinch and stand back. "Yeah, and I have been biting the blade for hours now, giving you ponies time to make up and do some song and dance number or whatever in Tartarus you do to end a fight."

He mentioned moving around his frontal legs.

"Ah, that is not exactly what we do," Fluttershy voiced her opinion.

"Whatever! The point is, I had enough of you two complaining while we are stuck here freezing our flanks off" Once he was done venting, the Prince took a deep breath before continuing and looking at them, his expression shifting to one of pity. "Look, I get it, Cadence, I do. You are worried sick for your hive, mate, and larva after some crazy stalker..."

"Hey!" Penny complained but stopped once Pharynx glared at her.

"Some crazy stalker!" He reiterated, not looking at Penny, "Turned your home into a garden, tried to take your crown, and put your citizens at risk, not to mention what she did to the entire world. Being angry..."

"I'm not angry" Cadence tried to defend herself, but the same happened.

"Being angry!" He did the same with Cadence. "It is more than understandable, but PLEASE, take one minute to stand back and remember how she," He pointed at Penny, "Just got unlimited god-like powers just a couple of days ago. Or what? Were you able to move the moon the second you got your horn?" He questioned with a raised eyebrow, and Cadence couldn't do much but look down in shame

"No"

"That's what I thought!"

"Yeah, I'm doing the best I can here. Cut me some slack, would you?" Penny add

"As for you!" The changeling then turns to her, "I get your frustration. Having to have someone you don't exactly like as your boss isn't exactly thrilling."

"Ah yeah, Chry..." Fluttershy nodded but stopped when the changeling prince continued, making her blink in confusion.

"But Thorax isn't all that bad, and his heart is in the right place, and so is Cadence's, so PLEASE, could you try to be more patient with her? If she keeps pushing you, I will call her out, but you must also pull your weight. Maybe she can think of something to help you out."

Penny looked down and grumbled, "I suppose."

"Good. With that settled, we will have to walk the rest of the way and be on the lookout for any other issues. So please, try to get along, stop fighting with one another and do your bucking jobs, or I swear I will put you in a time-out cocoon, turn this train around and take you back to Las Pegasus this instant!"

The mares remain quiet for a moment. "She started it," Penny finally replied, looking at Cadence.

"I certainly did not!"

"I don't care! Act your age, for Chrysalis' sake! Lives depend on us. We can't waste time fighting with each other now!" He huffed in anger. "Now, this is what's going to happen. I'm going to take my platoon, scout ahead, and give you mares time to cool down and do whatever you need to do, yell, vent, dance, sing, or whatever else you need to do to hash out a truce and work together.

Once you are done with that and feel like doing something productive, come up and join me so we can fix the Crystal Empire." He turned around and started marching away, with his guards quickly falling into formation beside him. "I swear, what did my brother see in these ponies and their antics? The queen was bad, but she at least knew how to focus on a task." He muttered to himself until he was out of earshot, leaving the three mares in silence, with two looking down in shame.

Fluttershy was looking at both of them, unsure what to say, opening and closing her mouth when she couldn't think of a rebuttal, making things even more awkward when they turned to her to see if she had something else to say.

"Ah...Pharynx!" She called for him and rushed to his side before walking next to him with a worried tune, "Don't you think that was a tiny bit much?"

"No," He replied immediately before looking at her. "Trust me, Fluttershy, you give them your hoof, and they will chew your wing. I get that you don't exactly like it, but there are times when some tough love is needed."

"No, I understand" She nodded once as she looked back in pity, remembering an event when she was in that position. "I don't like it, but I understand. I think, do you think this was the time for that?"

He sighed and stopped to look at her. "Normally, I would let them figure things out at their own pace. Who am I to judge or give advice? I'm not a psychologist. But I meant what I said: Fluttershy, many lives depend on us. There is a time and place to address their personal issues, and the middle of a crisis is not the time. So trust me, at the very least, I have faith that Cadence knows that as a princess and will try to come up with a compromise, right now the best we can do is give those two mares time to vent and, at the very least, come to some kind of truce."

The pegasus smiled and nodded at the Prince's logic. "You are surprisingly good at this Pharynx. And you were right, others are counting on us, and while mean, I suppose what you said needed to be said."

Pharynx shrugged at the compliment. "I'm a changeling. Understanding other's psyches to a degree... comes with the territory. Now come, let's see if we can find some animal that may tell us what we are dealing with here." They resumed their task, letting the other mares resolve their issues.

The bone-deep fridged wind was the only sound, as neither princess nor the writer wanted to start this particular conversation.

With a sigh, Penny finally decided to break the silence and speak first, "I'm sorry, ok?" She began, turning to Cadence.

"Huh?" The princess looked at her, confused by the admission.

"For what happened to Blueblood, for...what I did here...for...well, for everything." She looked down in shame, "I'm not a monster. I know what I did was wrong. Deep inside, I think I...I always k-k-knew, but I just kept ignoring it. I was so in love with him. I still am, but I now know that what I did was wrong, and for that. I'm sorry."

Cadence, for her part, remained quiet, observing how the mare was still looking at the ground. "Penny, what you did, and the reasons you did it. I'm sorry, but I'm not sure if you could call it love."

That irked Penny as she glared back, but Cadence stopped her by lifting a hoof before she could gather a full head of steam to retort. "Let me explain. Yes, you were passionate about it and focused on wanting to make a lasting relationship. But at the end of the day, I'm not sure you ever were in love with my cousin."

"I will not dignify that with a response." Penny replied coldly as Cadence got closer while the unicorns turned back to the princess.

"Don't get me wrong. It's ok to be passionate about something or towards someone. but you have to respect boundaries and not go overboard!" She quickly added as Penny looked over her shoulder with a raised eyebrow. "But please, at this point, you need to accept the reality of things, Penny. You fell in love... with a concept rather than a living being. And that is a sad tale that would only lead to heartbreak, no matter how hard you try to make it work."

"What are you saying?"

"I'm saying that you never loved Blueblood, the Prince. You became obsessed with being with THE Prince and convinced yourself that the only way to obtain that was to become what said Prince desired."

"Yes, I understand that. Blueblood already told me." She snapped back before looking down. "I only focused on him rather than showing him the real me." She stared at her reflection in a nearby icicle. By then, Cadence was standing beside her.

"True, but that is only half the lesson here."

"Huh?" Now intrigued, Penny looked at the princess, who smiled.

"Don't get me wrong, Penny, this is a common mistake every filly makes growing up. The truth is that when they say. "Find prince charming" they don't mean finding a prince. It is a concept." She looked at her and tapped at her heart. "It's about finding YOUR prince charming, your special someone that makes you feel like a princess, and in that regard, any pony can be that special prince you crave so much."

"But that is what I keep telling you. I found him! And it's Blueblood, I know it. He is the pony of my dreams."

"Is it now? Or are you confusing love with lust?" Cadence asked for clarification with a raised eyebrow. "Sure, you know him, you know what he likes, you know what he is attracted to, but do you know what he enjoys as a hobby? Have you two had one conversation where there was no flirting, no innuendoes, no lingering hugs, and nothing romantic? Just two ponies chatting?"

"Yes, there was, there was that time..."

"You and Pinkie Pie organizing a party doesn't count. That was Pinkie forcing you into that situation" Cadence shook her head and smiled calmly at her. "And you hated every second of it, didn't you?"

"Well, I...she was getting in my way! If only she tried to..."

"To what? Make the situation romantic somewhat?"

"...Yes," She finally admitted, and Cadence nodded while putting a wing on Penny's back.

"This might sound contradictory, but a relationship can't survive on romance alone."

"What?!" Penny asked flatly, staring at Cadence like she sprouted a second head, making Cadence laugh and nod.

"I'm serious, love or at least the one you share with your special somepony goes beyond what you understand of romance. It is about embracing and devoting yourself to your partner and vice versa, both the good and bad of them. It finding the flaws, those hidden layers no one can see, and meets them with acceptance, trust, and security. Shining and I can be just in the same room, tranquil, reading separate things, and be perfectly fine with that. As the old saying goes, you like his or her face but love his or her morning breath."

"EEEYuu! That is just disgusting!" Penny recoiled at the implication causing Cadence to laugh again

"That Penny is love. It's messy, confusing, unpredictable, and, yes, even, at times, disgusting. It's hard to explain, but I can no longer sleep without hearing my sweet Shining's snores. I bet that is a sentiment your parents shared and showed you firsthand, didn't they?"

"I..." Penny wanted to deny it, but the more she thought about it, the more she recalled those tiny details she seemed to have forgotten from her childhood. Their bickering, their arguments, their harmless jokes about their appearance. Even the occasional jab they tossed at one another "...oh dear Celestia, you are right, how didn't I notice?"

"Because you were a child. Children don't see the whole picture, Penny. They only see the core of the thing, which is how your parents love each other a lot. Not despite their flaws but rather BECAUSE of them. When you find a partner that accepts you like that and you accept them for it, then THAT, that right there is finding your Prince charming."

"I...I'm so confused." Penny had to hold her forehead. "All this time, I thought I knew everything about love and desire. I never thought it possible to have this many layers of subtlety."

"You know, I could teach you if you give me a chance."

Penny looked at the princess with surprise for the second time as Cadence returned her stare with a broad smile. "I have been thinking about finding an apprentice for a while now. You can easily say no. But think about it. I'm sure you could make something simply spectacular with my guidance."

Penny chuckles a little "Love and Desire working together as teacher and student? What would that make?"

"Love and desire combined? Wouldn't that be…?" Cadence started to think about the concept before they both replied at the same time, "Passion" They both arrived at the same conclusion as Penny nodded and shared a small chuckle at their timing.

"I appreciate the offer, princess, and in truth, now I'm more intrigued by what you could teach me about love. Just let me think about it." Penny answered before turning to march back to where Pharynx, Fluttershy, and the soldiers stood on guard, followed by the two changelings that stayed behind to guard the two ponies.

"That is all I ask of you." Cadence nodded and walked beside them as they continued marching until they reached the top of a small hill, where they were surprised by the sight before and below them.

Down the hill were their companions who gathered at the entrance of what could only be described as a four seasons plane, where the four seasons seemed to collide and merge in bizarre combinations like bushes devoid of any leaves like they were in the middle of winter yet they bore fruit ready to be harvested at the ends of their branches. Towering trees held spring flowers at their tops while leaves hung in beautiful fall hues, and a thick layer of grass spread to the horizon coated with a precise white coloring, like a bizarre grass-snow field.

All that plus the same overgrown vines twisted everywhere, with barely enough space for the group to walk through.

"What in Tartarus happened here?" Cadence asked once the group reunited.

"Ah, good, you two didn't take long then" Pharynx nodded, looking at the mares and smiling because he could no longer detect any resentment in the two. "Does this mean we can now focus on the mission?"

"We can," Cadence nodded once. "And thanks, Pharynx. Penny and I needed to have a heart-to-heart."

"Indeed, I don't want to admit it, but both of us had plenty that we didn't know we were holding back."

"Ok, ok, no need to get mushy either." Pharynx complained, raising his hooves in a warding gesture. "Let's focus on the backward landscape, shall we?" He points at the bizarre plane.

"It's the delirious seed we released." Penny explained, tapping some grass. Closing her eyes, she ignited her horn, and soon the strange plant vanished, returning to simple snow. With a sigh, she opened her eyes and smiled in pride at her work. "Ok, I have good news and some potential bad news."

"What is the bad news? Fluttershy asked. "I found a few birds earlier and tried to speak with them, but they kept ignoring me. Are we in danger of something?"

"Hmm, yes and no. The bad news is that my plant is starting to outgrow any semblance of control I might have had. Desire could get rid of it with no problem, but the best I can do is remove patches of the landscape. And it is starting to mutate. It is feeding off the desires of animals, which is a curse and a blessing in disguise since all fauna only desire food, shelter, and mating" She pointed at a couple of wolfs munching on some strange round red fruit looking extremely mellow.

Intrigued Pharynx approach, yet the animals don't seem to mind and let him pick one of the fruits and take a bite. "It tastes like meat. Does it even feel like that? Is this a..."

"A meat plant, correct? All the bushes and trees most likely produce fruit of their favorite meals for them to enjoy without effort." Penny explains, "As long as we don't provoke them, we should be fine."

"Oh, thank goodness there aren't any species having their mating season soon either. Or that might be a problem," Fluttershy added, and just in time, they could hear the distant roars of polar bears. "B-But, just to be sure, be careful and stay alert in case they want their privacy."

All of them nodded at the advice.

"Well, that would be the bad news. What is the good news?" Pharynx looks back at Penny.

"The flora is spreading itself thin; I can feel myself gaining more control over it the further it expands. It's enough for me to carve a path for us to use until we reach the empire. We could even turn the tables and make something to help us if there are more traps. Still, we can't lower our guard. Once we reach the empire's entrance, I am not confident I will have any control over the landscape. We need to weaken whatever we find before I can erase it."

Cadence rested a hoof over her shoulder. "Don't worry, Penny, we got your back. We will buy you as much time as we can."

"And perhaps that would not even be necessary," Pharynx mentioned. "We could still try a sneak attack. If we enter the place and reach the heart, we can end this threat from the inside."

"Agreed. We will decide what approach to take once we reach the empire's entrance" They all agreed and started moving, with two changelings at either side of Penny as she got ahead and used her magic to make a route for everyone to take. Fluttershy and Cadence took to the sky on the lookout for any surprises. Pharynx and two other changelings took the rearguard to stay alert for any traps lying ahead, starting their trek toward the crystal empire.

"Team two here. The seed that Penny released has mutated and is expanding at a slow pace outside the empire, creating a bizarre plane with all types of plants catering to anything the local fauna might desire. We are proceeding with caution." The changeling prince filed a brief report of their discoveries through the earpiece before resuming his job as a lookout.
> Secret Pink Mission, The Land Of Slumber And Wants (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With a song in her heart and a skip in her step, an eager Pinkie Pie continued her trek throughout the land of dreams and slumber as she hopped from one dream into another.

"Princess!... Princess Luna?... Are you here? She peeked at a series of bubbles and glanced at her necklace to see if there could be any reaction. Though, it disappointed her that it didn't have any response other than acting as a compass that continued to change directions the moment she got a trail.

"Hmmm, where could she be?" She asked nobody in particular as she rested on a sand hill, looking at all the bubbles shining out, half buried in the desert night extending to the horizon, and the giant sand holes spreading everywhere "Wow, somepony really likes making sand castles, there is a giant mole prowling around here...or the sand hawk is near." She started, realizing why there was so much sand everywhere she looked.

"Come on, Pinkie, think, think." She tapped her head a couple of times before turning to her left. "Do you readers know what I should do? Oh, right, right, this isn't THAT kind of book. Sorry, neverminded. Hmm, let's see" She kept talking to herself, looking around until a familiar-looking bubble caught her attention. Unlike the rest, this one didn't seem connected to the desert and kept floating in mid-air, letting her know whoever it belonged to was unaffected by the sand. And this one, in particular, appears to have glints of rainbow light dotting throughout it. The silhouette of Penny could be seen in the middle.

OH, that must be Penny's dream! She must be taking a nap. Perfect, I should see how she is doing. And ask if Desi left her with a clue on how her spell works! Now with a goal in mind, the party mare hopped into the sand as if it were a trampoline and propelled herself into the novelist's dream.

Once there, the party planner received quite a shock. Unlike other dreams where it felt like she was stepping into a live show in the middle of a performance, this one kept bouncing her left and right between two different dreams, or maybe memories of seeing Penny talking with her parents, taking notes. Then all of a sudden, the party planner was yanked into a black-and-white dream where she was snaking around the floor, hearing other ponies' conversations, and even seeing herself while she and Blueblood were having their sleepover, ending with a pegasus stallion staring right at her from below.

"...intriguing proposition you are offering, little pony." Pinkie started to talk without her control or voice as she got closer. "But I must ask, if you are looking for power, why are you handing me to somepony else instead of taking it for yourself?"

For his part, the pegasus only smirked and closed his eyes while oozing confidence. "Call it a business investment. One that will benefit both of us. I get the ultimate source of what my clientele wants, and you get as much desire as you want indefinitely. Do we have a deal?" He extended his hoof. It was then that Pinkie realized this was one of Desire's memories as she recognized the claw holding the hoof.

"Deal"

"Pinkie?" With the memories finally clearing, Pinkie was launched backward into a book studio where plenty of empty papers, ink, quills, and other writer's materials were scattered about. In the middle of it all, dressed in a formal vest, reading glasses, and a pen tucked behind her left ear, was none other than Penny, staring back at the party mare in confusion. "Is that you? What are you doing in my dream?"

"Oh, hi, Penny! I was passing by and wanted to ask how you are doing?" Pinkie recovered quickly and flashed her usual friendly smile before tilting her head. "Wait, how did you know it was me, me, and not dream me, or knew that this was a dream?"

Penny only chuckled briefly. "Because I'm a novelist, Pinkie, my mind is always wandering about with ideas and stories. I know my way around my subconscious and know what isn't part of it." Her expression turned somber. "And not to be rude, but shouldn't you be out there looking for Princess Luna instead of talking with me?"

"Oh, I'm still doing that, silly. This is just me taking a little break to see how you are doing before going back to work." with that, an idea occurred, and a literal lightbulb appeared on top of Pinkie's head. "And if possible, ask Desi if there is a way to use her spell to track the princess faster."

"Maybe, but Pinkie, Desire is still sealed, remember?"

"Only in the waking world, remember?" She smirked at Penny. "Otherwise, how did she talk with Bluey while he was asleep?"

Penny wanted to refute Pinkie's statement but realized she was right. "Point taken. Maybe we could talk with her here. She could even help me in speeding things up on my end."

"Aha, and I bet she is through that entrance to a greenhouse that has been in that corner the whole time." Pinkie pointed to her left, and Penny saw a big, windowed door damp with water from the inside.

"How did I not see that before?" Penny asked herself in astonishment before Pinkie grabbed her hoof and dragged her inside.

"Come on! I bet she would love to see that you are safe and sound!"

The two advanced, and immediately after entering the place, they were assaulted by the familiar heat expected of a tropical forest, which seemed to be the theme inside said greenhouse. "And while we look around, you can tell me how things are going. So...how are things with your team?" Pinkie asked with an eager smile as Penny looked up, recalling the most recent events of their mission.

One hour prior

Cadence's team made good time through the bizarre plane without difficulty until a panting Penny had to stop and take a breather from overusing her magic. Her horn was steaming hot and starting to discharge errant sparks of magic. On top of it all, she had a splitting headache.

Noticing this, Fluttershy quickly grabbed a hoof full of snow with her wings, which was placed on Penny's horn to cool, and guided her to sit. "Take a moment, Penny. You have been using your horn nonstop for Celestia knows how long."

"Judging by our speed and the trail we left behind, I estimate two, maybe two and a half hours," Pharynx observed, inspecting their progress. "And unless the spell also extended this plane. I say we are probably halfway there."

Meanwhile, Cadence got worried when she spotted dark clouds on the horizon before landing next to the group. "I agree with Fluttershy. We need to rest and find shelter" She pointed at the clouds. "Those are storm clouds. A blizzard is heading our way. It would be suicide if we continue in that weather."

"But where can we go?" Penny questions, regaining some energy as the snow has turned to water. "We can't fully trust the flora of this place, and if I erase it, we will only end up with snow, and I don’t think we have enough material or time to construct a igloo"

"Which leaves us with only one choice, we will have to settle with the local flora. It would still be better than facing the storm," Pharynx concurs before looking around. "There," He points at a particularly tall tree with a hollow at its base. "That tree seems big enough to hold all of us. We will rotate lookouts and take shelter there until the storm passes. Penny, try to recover as much energy as you can. Two guards and I will scout around and find food for us."

They all agreed and quickly turned said tree into their improvised shelter. Once they settled and determined that the place was safe, Cadence turned to Pharynx and two of his changelings. "I will cast a shielding dome around. Try to stay as close as possible. Penny is right. We should not lower our guard at any moment."

"Don't worry, princess, we are well versed and trained in exploring unknown dangerous areas. We will be back in 20 minutes." The prince reassured her before leaving with his team. Cadence watched them until they disappeared among the clouds before casting her dome.

"Good luck," She whispered before looking back to see Fluttershy finish making an improvised bed for Penny to lay on next to some weird-looking mushrooms currently acting as a heat source for a family of rabbits. Like the rest of the animals, they were extraordinarily mellow and complacent to the point where Fluttershy couldn't speak with them, yet they didn't seem to mind being used as a pillow. Some swarmed around Penny once she rested her head on the leaves, seeking the added heat or inviting her to relax.

"So, are you ok?" Fluttershy asked as Penny nodded, holding in a yawn, not wanting to show how exhausted she was.

"As ok as I will ever be, given the circumstances." She stared at the glowing red mushrooms. "I played with the flora a little so that it won't try anything, but this place is still so bizarre. It could be a very relaxing place if it weren't for the fact that it is trying to trap us."

"Please don't overthink it." Cadence stepped in. "You are supposed to be resting, not overworking yourself. Now go to sleep, Penny. We will wake you up when the time is right."

The novelist still seemed troubled but complied and rested her head on the pile of bunnies, being mindful not to hurt them as they only sighed in peace and got comfortable around and underneath her. "Try to stay alert, ok? From what I'm feeling...the seeds already are aware of our presence and soon will start targeting us, maybe as a group or individual;y, but it will try to lure us into joining the rest of their victims." She looks at the bunnies in sorrow. "It not only tries to cater to our desires but also mutates into something that will keep us mellow and relaxed, no matter what you see or hear. Stay close. And make sure to tell that to Pharynx the same."

"We will, Penny. Now relax" Fluttershy petted her head and helped her fall asleep. Finally satisfied at seeing the novelist resting, Fluttershy joined Cadence, with one soldier acting as a lookout while waiting on the rest of their team, the storm slowly approaching their location.

"Is the storm starting?"

Cadence nodded and squinted her eyes. "Penny wasn't kidding, look." Looking forward, Fluttershy saw giant bushes and other hollow trees springing forth immediately as the nearby animals felt the cold and tried to run, all equipped with the same heating mushrooms. "It was like the flora itself is doing everything it can to keep its inhabitants safe and comfortable."

"It is strange but also a relief knowing every animal here is safe. This place is almost like a natural sanctuary for all." Cadence looked back at the pegasus with a raised eyebrow. "It is also dangerous, but wouldn't it be nice if we could use this kind of place."

Cadence started to panic when she saw a pink glow in Fluttershy's eyes, and her expression slowly turned mellow. "If I could bring a couple of seeds back to Ponyville, I'm sure all my little friends would love..."

"Fluttershy, snap out of it!" Cadence shakes the poor pony awake from her trance

"Wha...what happened?" She asked before realization dawned on her, and she held her head. "What was I saying?"

"You don't remember?"

"I'm not sure. Everything was a blur for a moment there." Looking around, Cadence spotted the source, some roots near Fluttershy. Bright neon flowers that weren't there before were spreading deep foggy pollen. Acting quickly, she yanked them out and tossed them outside the dome. "Seems like Penny was right in warning us. There are not only traps to be on the lookout for, but the land itself will try to lure us in the more time we remain in one place."

"Oh, my," Fluttershy looks up, "And with a storm coming..."

"Exactly, brace yourself everypony..." Cadence has to stop when she hears the giggles of a baby coming from the wind outside the shield "...br-brace yourself, this will be..." She tried to continue when suddenly she heard another voice.

"Cadence...come on, sweetie. Flurry has been looking all over the place for you! We baked you your favorite cake... play with us." Hearing the voice of her husband calling out for her, plus her daughter and starting to see their silhouettes made her pause until she shook the illusion off and glared at a distance before turning back to the group.

"Brace yourself everypony. Remain vigilant until the storm passes, and we can advance again. This is where we will stand in a battle of endurance and willpower."

Back at Penny's dream

The novelist sighed once she finished her story. "And that is how things are going so far. I must recover as much strength as I can while the storm continues before Cadence and the rest break under temptations."

"Wait, how did you know the parts you weren't awake for?" Pinkie inquired, intrigued by the last part of the story.

"It's hard to explain, but it's because this place has a part of my magic, so I can still feel whatever happens in my surroundings even if I'm asleep...and someone is touching the ground. I don't know how Pharynx is doing for his part. He must be staying in the air, just in case. Smart changeling. And anyway, Desire could help me a little, if not with her magic, with some advice on how to deal with this weird foliage.

"Oh, don't worry. I'm sure she will be able to help us no problem," She confirmed in her usual upbeat demeanor until the two had to stop when the floor ended, and ahead of them expanded a white void painted with all assortments of flowers moving around as if on a solid invisible wind circling the area, generating a wide tube and rainbow pattern. Looking up, they saw vines covering the sky.

When they looked down, they saw giant flower arraignments spreading around the tube suspended in mid-air with a screen in the middle showing a picture of Desire doing various actions.

"Are those...memories?" Penny asked, perplexed by the whole view.

"Yep and something tells me Desire is inside one of them. It looks like we have to jump. Come on, Penny."

"Wait!" The unicorn froze Pinkie with her horn before she could leap while inspecting each screen. "Before we jump, we should look for the right memory." She reeled Pinkie back to the edge of the cliff. "A lady is entitled to her privacy right."

"Oh, right, so which one should we jump into?"

"If I had to guess, the flowers are telling how old the memory is" And indeed, looking at them, they could see that some flowers had yet to bloom while others were about to wither away. "If we go for the oldest memories, I doubt we will find something useful, so let's try aiming for the freshest memories and, if possible, the ones that have me in them. "

"Oki doki lokie," Pinkie saluted, and the two started to look around until Pinkie pointed at one memory with a younger version of Penny hugging Desire.

"That must be the memory of when I met her. Let's start there." Two took a few steps back before rushing forward and then jumped into the void. The screech of an eagle could be heard as they descended into said memory entering the image as if it was made of water.

Startled, both mares landed abruptly in a grassy field where the only light source was a dry tree ahead of them.

"Where are we?" Pinkie asked while helping Penny stand up.

"I...I don't know, this is supposed to be the memory of how I met Desire, but I don't remember this."

Hearing something moving, they turned to see a giant boulder starting to slide to the right, revealing a cave's entrance, and a younger Sharp Shooter carrying exploration gear approached the tree.

Intrigued, the two mares hid behind some rocks and snuck closer to the pegasus, who stopped once he was in front of the dry plant.

"Ah, the death oak of dreams" He smiled in victory as he put down his saddle bags and started to unpack a bowl, a bottle of water, a pestle, a knife, and some dry leaves in a plastic bag "We meet at last" Taking out the leaves he placed them in the bowl and starts grinding them into dust.

"Are you sure this is how you met?" Pinkie questioned, looking back at Penny.

"That is what the picture implied, but I don't recognize any of this. What is happening?" Penny asked, equally confused, as Sharp prepared the leaves and poured some water on them.

"Quite the legend you have going on here. Water the tree, make a wish, and it will come to be in the morning. Cute little rhyme." He raised his hoof and held the knife to the frog of his foot. "But I'm looking for something more than wishful thinking." Cutting his hoof, he let some blood drip into the bowl and then watered the oak with the mixture. "Now, what do you say we drop the charade, and you come out and play, Ms. Desire."

"What?!" But ponies watched in shock as the image froze and turned to the dried-out tree.

"Penny! How are you here? How much did you see?" Desire appears in front of them in a panic looking between them and the scene behind her " Penny, I swear, It's not what you think!"

"You knew him." Penny interrupted the spirit with a thousand-yard stare while regarding the endless coldly, "Didn't you? You knew him before meeting me. You two even planned our encounter, didn't you?"

"...I was desperate to be free." Desire finally replied. "Yes, that is how it started. I made a deal with him. But everything we did? The time we spent together? I swear it was real."

"It was based on a lie!"

"No, it wasn't!" Desire defended herself. "Maybe he thought it was that, but it wasn't for me. The moment we met?" She showed them the memory of Penny writing her next book while enjoying the view from a park. "I meant it when I said I saw your potential, your inner fire, your ability to do anything that only needed a spark of desire. Penny, please trust me. I never planned on hurting you."

Penny lapsed into silence and looked away. "Penny," Pinkie tried to say something, but the novelist interrupted her.

"There is a mess we need to fix." Penny looked at the spirit with some anger. "You and I will sit down and have a serious conversation later but right now. Equestria needs us! Our little trap for Discord worked too well, and now it is out of control, and Pinkie needs directions. Where exactly is Dream?"

Desire could only blink owlishly. "What exactly is going on out..."

"I said we would talk later!" Penny insisted, "Right now, we don't have much time, so if you truly meant what you said, you will help us right now, Desire."

For her part, Desire was left surprised at the outburst before sighing in defeat. "Ok, but I also need to tell you something important. It involves the deal I made."

Back in the real world

with the return of the changelings after harvesting what they could, the group continued to wait out the storm while eating some berries when Penny woke up with a start.

"Penny! Penny! Relax," Fluttershy immediately went to her side and tried to her calm down. "You had a nightmare, that's all."

"Not it wasn't. I spoke with Desire." She quickly went and took the earpiece of the Pharynx before he could protest. "Hello? Hello? does anycreature copy?"

"Captain Sparrow speaking, what's the situation" The captain quickly picked up how distressed Penny sounded.

"Captain, you need to listen. The pony that your guards were observing? Sharp Shooter never went to sleep, nor did his minions. Desire herself told me. While we were in Las Pegasus, she set him free to feed on his unfinished desire to keep that it way. He has plans for all of Equus, and they involve kidnapping the princesses. His goons might be on their way to Applelosaa!"
> Third Team, Enter The Sandmen (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Arriving at the train station of Appleloosa, Blueblood and Nefertiti were greeted by an unusual scene. The town seemed to have been battered by a heavy sandstorm as golden  dunes were spread everywhere, as far as the eye could see. Like Las Pegasus, every living being was in a deep slumber, though, unlike the rest of the world, they were lying on the ground or on top of the sand hills rather than inside flowers.

For such reasons and by Nefertiti's suggestion, their soldiers fanned out to scout ahead to ensure the area was secure before they left the train. Something that Blueblood didn’t quite like, but he couldn't argue with her logic, so he had no choice but to sit and wait while watching their guards clear the area through a window.

"I hate this," He complained, glancing at Nefertiti, who was currently reading a book in front of him.

"Hmm?" She looked at him overtop of her book as he stared at her.

"We are waiting for them to roll out the red carpet. We should be out there helping, not sitting around doing nothing."

"I know how you feel, but we must be cautious Bluey." She calmly reasoned while lowering her book. "We have no idea what we are facing, what to expect, or how many traps could be waiting out there to be sprung. That is why we need to establish a basecamp and to do so. We need to ensure the terrain is safe and to do that. We need to send out a unit to ensure the place is safe." She goes back to reading. "And until then, we must stay here and wait."

Blueblood can only sigh and nod. "I still don't like it." He looked at the window forlornly. "I feel like I'm sending them into danger, so we don't have to be in it ourselves."

Nefi also signed, in agreement. "Yeah, I hate that too, but I'm afraid it's a necessary evil." Looking at the prince, she put the book down and grabbed his right hoof with her paw, trying to reassure him with a calm smile. "Have faith in them, Bluey. This is exactly what our soldiers were trained and taught to deal with. Like how we were raised to act as their pillars for security and confidence."

Taking a deep breath, he stared at her paw before looking into her eyes and smiling, nodding once. "You are right, and I need to have more faith in my soldiers, just like you put your trust in yours." He gripped her paw with both hooves as she did the same.

At that moment, a knock, followed by Ground Breaker, and the captain of Nefi's guard, a white tiger in a ninja-attired suit, marched in. "Your highness, the area..." The guards stopped once the two saw the royals holding hands and tilted their heads. "Your highnesses?"

Confused, Nefi and Bluey looked at their paws and hooves before breaking apart and standing up. "You were saying, sergeant?"

"We just completed scouting the area. It is safe for you to exit the train."

"Excellent. Any traps?" Nefi asked her captain as he shook his head.

"Nothing is hidden, but we have confirmed that the sand is enchanted. The effects are slower, but it causes drowsiness quickly, and continued exposure would result in falling into a deep slumber. The latter is speculation, but we wouldn't want to risk confirmation."

"What about the locals?" Blueblood questioned as the four headed to the exit.

"All safe and sound, thank Celestia. Should we collect them and place them in tents, your highness?" Ground asked as they stepped outside. Blueblood shook his head.

"No, constructing the tents alone would rob us of precious time. Find the largest buildings in town, then secure and convert them into our base of operations. Put the residents there and use the adjacent buildings to establish the base and a medical center further." Blueblood began while Nefrititi continued without missing a beat, 

"While maintaining a perimeter and sending a squad to collect as many resources from the local stores. The rest of you will work with the unicorn guard to clear as much golden sand as possible. I want this town to be as safe as possible before we move to the Mirage. Remember what Pinkie and Sparrow told us, Sharp Shooter's goons might be close, so stay alert."

"Yes, sir!"

"Yes, ma'am!" Both soldiers saluted and moved to fulfill their orders.

"See? Now we have a little idea of what we are facing and what to expect." Nefi winked at Blueblood with a smile on her face as they looked around town, seeing their soldiers preparing a base and working together to place the citizens safely in a long event center with a dance floor inside, probably for significant events, with enough space to house all of them. "As well as to who exactly we are facing."

"What are you talking about?" He raised an eyebrow while Nefi looked at the horizon toward where the spa rested.

"Our objective is 20, maybe 30 kilometers from this location. Our foe made their move two and a half weeks ago, and yet this town? The closest one to them was left completely untouched, with no traps, no base, no obstacles, nothing other than the sand. Since entering the desert, we have yet to face a single problem despite coming so very close to our goal. Whoever we are facing either doesn't care about expanding or is overly confident with his hideout and didn't bother making it safer, and even that is debatable."

She lowered her arms and shrugged. "all that without mentioning the number of bodies just sleeping everywhere without being trapped inside plants."

"So what? You are saying we are facing the vice of sloth here?"

"Well, what else could it be? This isn't the work of wrath, I don't see how Gluttony could even add up to this, and this wasn't a caper concocted out of pride."

"No, you are right. Sloth is practically written all over the place. They didn't even initiate this; they took advantage of lust and shooed it into their agenda at the last second. Or rather stopped doing what they were doing." Blueblood admitted with a defeated sigh, "Yet that doesn't make it any easier."

Nefi brought him closer to her. "Are you sure you will be ok with this?"

"Not completely, but I still need to do this." He nodded once before looking at her. "They are my aunts, Nefi. Whatever family drama is going on, I need to at least try to solve it."

She smiled and nodded, closing her eyes before opening them again as they looked at the horizon. "So what's the plan?"

"First, we will reach the previous unit's camp and see what happened there. And find out if my aunt Luna is still there, and if so, her soldiers. A small detachment will split off to bring them back to town while the rest of us advance until we reach the spa."

"And once we reach it?"

He looks at her with a smile. "Then I will trust my sergeant and your men to take the lead and form a plan for us to get inside that building " She smiled and nodded.

"That sounds like a good plan. But before doing any of that, we should inform Sparrow about how we are progressing.

"Agreed" They activated their earpieces and contacted the base in Las Pegasus. "Team leader here in reporting, Captain Sparrow. Do you hear me?" Blueblood opened the link, but they both stood confused when they only received static in response.

"Captain Sparrow, come in?" He repeated.

"Anyone out there? Can you hear us?" Nefertiti asked as they started to get worried, and after some tense moments, they finally got a response.

"Not a good time, sugarcube," Applejack finally responded as they both heard the sound of fighting in the background.

"A.J.? What is going on" Blueblood questioned as the two tried to listen over the din.

"Heck if I know. Everything was going well this morning, but suddenly the sky turned cloudy, and light cracks started appearing everywhere." A.J. explained before dodging around a giant hand, turning around, and bucking the head of a faceless creature turning it back into normal sand. "Next thing we know, sand starts pouring in from everywhere, and when Triceps sent out a group to see what happened, the piles took a human appearance and started attacking us."

"What?!" Blueblood and Nefi exclaimed simultaneously in fear.

"Don't worry, Hestia and her griffins managed to gather up a twister to blow the bulk of these varmints away, but a good chunk of them still managed to get inside the hotel." She took cover behind a desk before another monster could grab her. "Triceps and his minotaurs are holding the line and pushing them back, but we have our hooves tied up at the moment, sugar cube. You will have to call back later."

Running away, A.J. cut the link leaving both royals alone as they looked at one another. "Nefi, you don't think..."

"I...I'm still deciding. If this was their plan, why would they attack our bases like that? According to Applejack, they have the advantage of appearing everywhere. Still, they are erratic, without a clear goal, and are easy to deal with." She started to think, "If I had to guess, I would say this sounded more like a reaction to an opportunity rather than a planned attack..."

Her thoughts are interrupted when a lightning flash briefly blinded them, followed by unusual crackling throughout the sky. Looking up, they saw a light crack starting to form, putting them on alert.

"Guards to me! Protect the royals!" Someone shouted, and before they knew it, a group of soldiers formed around both royals, weapons ready and waiting.

Everyone braced for whatever might appear as the breach grew larger and larger until it finally split open. Showing through the cracked portal, an equine figure jumped out to land in front of them. The portal closed, and the guards kept their weapons at the ready while one of them slowly approached the intruder.

When they heard a groan, everyone tensed and waited for the figure to stand up, revealing a mare with light orange fur, a two-toned yellow and red mane and tail carrying a purple saddleback, wearing a lab coat, and having a cutie mark of the sun with red and yellow on it, as well as a strange silver device acting as a wristband on her right frontal hoof.

Holding her head in pain, she tried to stop her head from spinning as she rubbed her forehead "Dear Celestia, how did Starswirl make a portal work smoothly and painlessly? Please tell me it worked." She said to herself as her eyes finally adjusted, and she realized all the ponies around her were pointing their weapons at her and eyeing her worryingly.

" Ahhhhh...Don't worry, everypony, I'm not an enemy," She tried to de-escalate the situation. "You could say I'm here to help? Something tells me we are all having the same problem right now."

"Stand down. Men," Blueblood ordered, surprising the mare as he slowly approached her along with Nefertiti.

"You know this mare, Bluey?" Nefi asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Just by the descriptions from my cousin, orange fur, mane and tail of fire and sun type cutie mark. Excuse me, madam, by any chance, are you Sunset Shimmer?"

"I...am?" Sunset questioned, equally confused to see him of all ponies right now. "And not to be rude, prince, but can I speak with the pony in charge here? I'm kind of in a hurry."

"You are looking at him, Ms. Shimmer" Ground was quick to answer with some anger at her informality. "So whatever you need to say, you can tell our prince."

"Wait, what?! You?! No, no, no, what about the princesses? What about Twilight?!" She asked in fear drawing the ire of the guards.

"They are all captured, and watch your tongue, mare. You will address our prince with respect!"

"Calm down, everypony." Blueblood once more ordered them to relax. "Her confusion is understandable." He then turned to Sunset with a sorrowful look. "But I'm afraid my guardstallions are correct, Ms. Shimmer."

"Ah, Sunset is ok," She corrected him.

"Right, Sunset, Twily has told me a lot about you, and if what half she told me is true, then your help would be greatly appreciated during these trying times, for you see," he stood to the side so she could see all the sleeping ponies being carried into the event center. "Equestria has been struck by a powerful foe that has captured even my aunt's and cousin. That is why we are here, actually." He points to the sky, and Sunset finally notices how the sun and moon appeared simultaneously, startling her even more. "You landed right in the middle of our rescue mission."

"What happened?" She managed to utter once she recovered from the initial shock as Blueblood shook his head

"Not here, come. We discuss this at the base." He invited her to follow. Once she nodded and stood, the guards escorted everyone into the improvised camp they had made. In the local rodeo arena, some soldiers converted the V.I.P. room into their command center. And closed the rooftop to turn the place into a fortress completely.

The moment they entered, the royals spent the better part of the next hour explaining all that had happened since they arrived at the hotel up until this very moment—opening the links to the rest of the channels so everyone available could hear of Sunset's situation.

By the story's end, Sunset tried her best to process everything that happened by recounting the order of the significant events. "So, to sum it up. All this time, Discord had six siblings, all with the same level of power as him, whose names start with the letter D, and one of them captured Twilight."

"Desire, and not only Twilight, but she also captured virtually the entire world except for several strategic zones, and she did so with the help of her brother Dream." Blueblood clarified.

"Right, those two, which is the reason why the sky is like it is and everyone is asleep, and you are the ipso facto ruler of Equestria, which has been like this for two and a half weeks now...and you are saying that you defeated Desire all by yourself, too."

"Not exactly by myself, but she had everyone under her influence, so kind of?" He shook his head. "Not important right now. Why don't you tell us how you ended up here?"

"S-Sure but first, can you give me some water? I need a moment to process everything."

"Oh, of course, one moment" He stood up from his chair and headed to a mini bar where there was a pitcher with cold water and a couple of glasses. While pouring the water, Sunset turned to Nefertiti and got closer to whisper.

"Ok, he can't hear us now. Tell me, how did you manage to defeat that spirit?" She asked, intrigued, "Or is she still out there, and he is only gloating about nothing?"

Nefi could only blink in confusion. "Ah, that is what happened."

"Yeah, Sunny, Blueblood saved us all from Desi that one time." Pinkie confirmed, chiming in through her earpiece.

"I can also attest to that, darling," Rarity confirmed as well

"It was quite the fight, that much I can tell you" A.J., who manages to find a short break from her conflict, managed to join the conversation as Sunset could only remain quiet and skeptical.

"Come on, girls. You are not really buying this, are you? Sure he seems like a good pony now, certainly an improvement from the bratty, narcissistic snob I once met a long time ago. But defeating a monster as strong as Discord? When the elements just so happened to come to his aid? Him being some kind of swordmaster? Please, not even I gloated that much when I was evil. Now really, how did you win?" She asked, not believing the story, but before the conversation could go any further, Blueblood returned with the water.

"Here you go."

"Thanks," 

Blueblood served her and Nefi a glass before sitting again in the makeshift circle the three made in the middle of the room.

"So that is our story. After that, we decided to split into teams, and you ended up with us by chance. The team in charge of rescuing the princesses."

She almost choked on her water at that comment and had to cough to recover her breath. "I'm sorry...what was that again?" She managed to whisper in between coughs

"We are heading to where my aunts were last seen to try and wake them up. Pinkie is in the dream landscape too. We concluded that if we worked together, we could rescue them one way or another. We would love it if you could join us, Sunset."

"But before we do anything else, I believe you owe us a story too, dear Sunset," Nefi reminded her and Blueblood. "You know plenty about us, but you have yet to disclose your own situation, and you also mentioned how we could be having "the same issue." Earlier on, one of our groups told us about strange sand creatures that appear out of breaches in reality, the same kind you appeared from."

"Wait, they didn't come from here?" She asked in shock, gaining the royals' attention and that of everyone who was listening.

"Seems like we both have problems in our worlds. Tell us, Sunset, what happened in your realm?" Blueblood asked calmly, trying to make sense of her situation and see if hers and his were connected somehow.

"That would be fair, after you explained everything happening here" Sunset nodded in agreement before sighing and looking out of a window. "I suppose it all started two weeks ago. At first, nothing seemed out of the ordinary, just your regular day at school with my friends when suddenly our phones got this alert." she explained by taking her cellular phone from her saddlebag and tried to open it until she remembered that she had hooves now.

"What is that?" Nefi asked curiously at the odd device.

"I will explain later." Blueblood replied, earning a confused look from Sunset before she used her magic to turn it on and showed them a captured picture of a storm cloud alert.

"At first, we didn't think much of it. Just a sudden storm was heading our area, and to be on the lookout for lighting. We have had those before, so nobody paid too much attention. But the next day, this happened." She slid the picture away and revealed the second. That of a statue outside a school with one side buried in the same golden sand they saw before.

"Wait, I think I know that statue. Twilight told me about it. Is that...the portal that connects to Equestria?" Blueblood questioned, and Sunset confirmed it with a nod earning the attention of Nefertiti.

"You will have to explain that, too, once this is over." She demanded gently, and Blueblood nodded in agreement.

"Anyway, the next morning, a sand hill burst out of the portal and blocked the way back to Equestria. And no matter what we tried, it didn't stop coming. What is worse, when someone tries to get close, this happens." She then showed them a video of the same humanoid creature emerging from the sand when someone that looked like Big Mac approached. It lunged forward and attacked him, putting him to sleep soon afterward.

Sunset, look at the video in sorrow. "We call them sandmen, and they have been terrorizing the town ever since then. I tried to call Twilight multiple times, but she never replied. Now I understand why. Things got worse when breaches in reality started appearing all over town, from which even more sand was pouring, creating more sandmen. It was clear that they came from Equestria, and without the mirror, my friends and I were forced to improvise a portal using one of the many breaches formed inside the school."

She chuckled briefly. "It was a stroke of luck that one of them happened to appear in the school lab. It took a couple of tries, but we managed to create a stable portal for me to seek help. That's when you found me." She ended her story with a tired sigh and a sorrowful look staring down at the ground. "Now I see things are much worse here, and what's worse, it seems the sandmen are starting to invade here as well."

"True, but it also shines a light onto various questions we have been having." Blueblood started to ponder along with their companions.

"Yeah, like how the amulet you gave me keeps moving around," Pinkie mentions. "I didn't notice it before, but there are sand holes in the desert dream," she said, looking around.

"They are the same color and seem to be acting the same way as they do here, plus the added sandmen reaction," Sierra concluded.

"Twilight once told us that magic in that world acted differently than ours or didn't react at all." A.J. mentioned. "it seems to be one of those kinds of reactions."

"Remember the timing. It all started with that storm warning," Triceps reminded everyone "Sunset, that picture you showed Nefi and Blood. By any chance, does the warning mention where it formed first?"

Sunset's eyes went wide in realization. "I never thought about it, but you're right. It should say." She inspected the picture again. "I didn't pay close attention because I didn't pay much mind to it, but now that you say that...No!" She froze in fear once she read the article more carefully. "I should have realized it sooner."

"What is it, Sunset? What did you find?" Skystar asked, intrigued.

"It says that the storm formed over a secluded desert island in what is essentially the middle of the ocean" She went pale and slowly looked at them. "And I recognize that island. I ended up there once during a school trip. There is a portal to Equestria hidden beneath some quicksand."

The royal's eyes went wide, and they looked at each other. "A doorway comfortably hidden in what he is made out of." Nefi observed.

"Into a world where he doesn't have to risk disappearing for not doing his job." Blueblood added.

"And with the world asleep, I'm pretty sure he has enough force to make the trip or move the portal to the spa," Hestia concluded. "It makes sense, plus Luna and Celestia are probably the only ones that could undo his work, so he would have to take them with him for safety, which explains why Pinkie can't find them."

"But I don't get it. If he is there, how come his magic still affects us?" Pharynx questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh! Oh! I know, I know, Desi told me while we were talking about her dreams. She told me that all of them could detect each other through some weird cosmic connection, and right now, Dream seemed to be stuck between two dimensions. Maybe Sunset's one is the one where he went, and he isn't stuck but rather put himself like that on purpose."

Everyone went silent at that revelation and thought. "So that's where he went," Nefi mentioned dryly, breaking the silence.

"That is the least of our problems." Sunset suddenly said, standing up. "Nefi is right. This is what is causing all the breaches, my Twilight once did something similar, trying to force open a portal, and the same thing occurred but not nearly as destructive, and that is not the biggest issue. How tall is this griffin again, exactly?"

"According to Pinkie, he is the size of a large hill or a small mountain," Blueblood answered.

Now all the colors of Sunset are drained from her body. "That's what I feared. When Twilight did it, it was roughly the size of a chariot, which was enough to start tearing reality apart. If we don't move that bird soon with how big he is, the stars only know the damage he could cause."

"By the great Bastet," Nefi, as well as everyone else, realized what she was saying.

"I'm not a quantum physicist, but I'm pretty sure a tear in reality the size of a mountain can't be good in any way." Blueblood nodded in agreement "it seems like the plan just changed everypony." He informed the open line, "This rescue just became our top priority, with two worlds at stake." He glared into the distance, in the direction of the spa.
> Preparation For Departure (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Staring into the distance, Blueblood kept watch as more soldiers returned from Princess Luna's camp, retrieving more and more sleeping soldiers. All his soldiers were equipped with gloves, gas masks, and more protective equipment to avoid any unnecessary contact with the enchanted sand and a second platoon in case they encountered any more sandmen on their mission.

Much to his relief, he didn't have to wait for too long before his group returned with the affected ponies. Though a pang of worry that kept pounding his heart as there were still signs of encounters with his aunt Luna.

Please, please be there. Closing his eyes, he silently prayed that his scouts had found everyone in the camp.

"Sir" Opening his eyes, Blueblood turned to look at one of his soldiers, reporting, "We found her."

And just like that, his worries vanished, as he nodded and rushed out of the room and towards a separate chamber in the infirmary where he was relieved to see Princess Luna, alongside Rainbow Dash and her colt friend Soarin, peacefully resting as a guard trained as a medic finished checking their vitals.

"How are they?" Blueblood asked the second the guard finished his work. "It's just like the rest, sir. All their vitals are normal, and their breathing is stable, but Dream has captured them too." He turns to look at the three. "For now, all we can do is keep an eye on them."

"It's better than them being missing, at least." Blueblood observed. He approached Luna and sat beside her bed, staring at her face before ordering. "Leave us."

"Your highness, I know this must be hard, but you should be in the V.I.P. room right now, planning our next move with Princess Nefertiti and the scholar Sunset."

"Give me a moment. I will join them afterward."

"Sir!" His guards saluted and left the Prince alone with his aunt.

Taking a slow breath, Blueblood stared at his aunt with melancholy before reaching out and moving some strands of her mane out of her face before grabbing her hoof and bringing it close to his heart. "I don't know how long it will take or even if you can hear me, but if you can. I promise you, auntie. I'm not going to rest, and I'm not going to stop. I will do everything I can to bring you back to us." He leaned forward and kissed her forehead before leaning back, tucking her in, and stood up, sniffing once and cleaning his watery eyes before composing himself and staring at her with a determined look.

"Wait and see, auntie. I might not have been the first choice, heck I'm pretty sure I wasn't even the fifth one, but regardless, now I'm the ruler of Equestria until we bring all of you back, and I will do my best to make all of you proud."

Turning around, he walked away and closed the door behind him before standing still in the middle of the hallway. Closing his eyes, he shook his head before staring forward. "Did you enjoy the show Sunset?"

Hearing a soft gasp, he looks over his shoulder in time for a confused and surprised Sunset to appear from behind some curtains. "How did you know I was there?"

The Prince smirked and left her speechless when he vanished into thin air. "Cool, right?" Blueblood whispered in her ear, standing to her right.

Jumping in fright, Sunset stared in shock at the Prince who stood behind her before looking back and forth between where he was and where he now stood. "but you were...and now are...how did you? What kind of spell was that!?"

The Prince laughed a little and shook his head with his eyes closed. "Thank you so much, Sunset, I needed that" Opening them again, he smiled at the still-distressed mare. "And it wasn't a spell." He resumed his walk, followed quickly by Sunset. "Just one nifty trick that the master of stealth herself taught me. Once you learn that, noticing when someone is hiding nearby becomes pretty easy."

His tone turned serious. "Now, would you mind telling me why you were spying on me?"

"It's not like that. I just heard princess Luna was back and wanted to see her too," Sunset admitted in sorrow, looking behind her before looking at him. "I'm so sorry. I know she is technically your..."

"...not technically!" Blueblood stopped and glared at her intensely. "She IS. my aunt Sunset... I don't know what rumors you may have heard before, but we share the same blood. We are genetically family, and I only skip all the 'grands' that go before it. Plus, she and aunt Celestia raised and clothed me since I was a colt. We are a family, Sunset. It is not just a name. They are MY family."

"Right, right, didn't mean to offend you either. I just...I want to give my condolences. It just now hit me how hard all of this must be for you, not as a prince but as a nephew."

The Prince remained quiet and stared at the floor sorrowfully. "You have no idea, which is why I will not rest until they are safe and sound again."

"Of course, I'm with you 100% in that. I still can't believe someone has trapped her inside her dreams. She is the mare of slumber, for pony's sake!"

"I know the feeling. I still find it hard to believe, but this only shows that our enemy is not to be underestimated." He nodded once as they resumed their trek.

Sunset kept looking at him, intrigued, until he raised an eyebrow and looked back at her.

"What?"

"Nothing, nothing, it's just that I'm impressed. You are nothing like I remember, I only saw you a couple of times back when I was a student at Celestia's School for the Gifted, but all those times, you were this spoiled brat wanting his tea and making the maid's life miserable."

"Yeah, that sounds like me." He looked down in shame, "it really wasn't my best moment."

"True, but now? Look at you. Training with guards? Thinking strategically? Trying to save the princesses instead of just indulging yourself with creature comforts? Showing how much you love them like any other family? Blueblood, you have turned your life around. I can't see that spoiled brat in any shape or form anymore! It's like you have become a completely different pony; Now you are this Humble Prince of sorts."

Oh, Sunset, you have no idea... Blueblood thought to himself, pondering whether he should reveal his soul's truth.

"Seeing you like this makes me think there could still be hope for my Blueblood."

"Hmm?"

"Well, the human world version of Blueblood." She clarified before sighing in frustration. "He, in contrast, is like the old you. Bratty, annoying, self-centered, narcissistic...a bully. You name it; he's it." She started to list/vent. "How I wish whatever happened to you happened to him soon. Maybe then he could finally grow up."

Oh, trust me, you don't want to wish for that.

"He sounds like quite the character. I should talk with him. If he is that selfish, he would listen to, let's call it, his conscience."

"Ah no, please, there are more pressing matters to attend to first. But thanks for the offer. Maybe once this mess is sorted out," Sunset proposed as they reached the room where the princess and the generals of both kingdoms were waiting.

"Sorry I'm late, everyone. I needed to make sure Princess Luna was safe." Blueblood apologized and sat at the table in front of a map.

"It's ok, sir. We are all concerned for the princess's well-being" Ground Breaker nodded in understanding.

"Which brings us to the issue at hand." Nefertiti brought everyone's attention back to the map. "It was fortunate that the princess camp was left intact, but now I know exactly what happened in the first place."

"The sandstorm that hit them wasn't an ordinary one." Her general spoke and pointed to Tempo's spa location. "It wasn't even intentional. Rather, it was merely a side effect. Thanks to the info given by Sunset Shimmer, the timing of the sequence of events, and what we found once we reached the premises of the spa, we now know that the cause of all this was Dream breaching into the other world."

He then showed a couple of pictures taken, where instead of a luxurious spa, there were only dunes with quicksand surrounding a crater in the middle of the desert. "Do you recognize this, Ms. Shimmer?"

"Y-Yeah, I do, this. This is the quicksand we found on that deserted island, but how...he pulled that land here?" She looks at the general, astonished, as he nods. "And most likely pushed the spa into your world, judging by the debris around the crater's edge and the hole itself forming a perfect circle.

"Of course, the pressure alone of making that kind of move would make a huge sand geyser." Blueblood concluded.

"One large enough to create a slumber sandstorm, most likely the same that hit the town, and by getting caught in its radius, your aunt and her troops." Nefi looked at Blueblood sympathetically.

"So that is what happened and where all the sand creatures are coming from. He is hiding inside that pit, making it impossible to reach from here and causing more leaks into both worlds." Sunset nodded in understanding. "There is nothing we can do from here. He's just too powerful, and getting too close to the pit or worse, trying to dive into the quicksand would only have us end up like the rest of the town."

"Not exactly," Nefertiti pointed out, "We still have the elements of magic contained within Blueblood sword."

"You have what now?" Sunset turned to her and then at Blueblood in disbelief as they continued with the Prince nodding in agreement.

"I understand what you are implying, and you are right. It might work to pull or push that granite bird into one of the two worlds ending the threat." He closed his eyes and sighed. "And unfortunately, even if it is more dangerous to us, we will have to drag him here. We don't know what would happen if we banish the concept of Dreams itself into another world and can't risk trapping everyone as a result."

"So we will have to time our movements just right." The leopard-general agreed before looking at Sunset. "Ms. Shimmer, by chance, is your world equipped with its own version of the elements of harmony?"

"We have something similar, yeah, but can we go back to the whole "you have the elements and think Blueblood has them" please?" She looked at him. "Blueblood, it was cute and all at first, but this is no time for lies or egos! Come clean already and admit that you don't have…THEM?!"

With eyes wide as dinner plates and a slack open jaw, Sunset was struck dumb when Blueblood unsheathed his sword a few inches and let her see the familiar rainbow aura exude from it, with the same color lights flowing along the edge of the weapon. "Yes, yes, I have."

"H-How? W-When...?"

"I told you already, Twilight entrusted me with it, and that is how I defeated Desire. They have been with me ever since. My theory is that I was granted temporary permission to use them until we rescue everyone." He tried to explain with a calm smile before resheathing the weapon. However, the poor mare's brain was still processing the revelation.

"...Anyway, back to the subject at hand, if we time our movements correctly, we can push that spirit out of your world where we will be ready to restrain him." Ground resumed, "the only issue is figuring out a way to open a portal to inform your friends of the plan Ms. Shimer."

Finally recovering, Sunset shook her head and addressed the general, "I can take care of it. The portal is not completely stable but can be sporadically opened every two and a half hours. Once I press this button." She gestured towards a wristwatch on her right hoof. "By now, it should be charged and ready to open, so just tell me when and I will make the jump back."

"You are not coming with us?" Nefertiti questioned with a raised eyebrow as Sunset shook her head.

"I'm part of the elements in my world, and it would be better if I go back for extra precautions, plus combining our powers would allow us to reach the island much faster, especially with the sandmen threat everywhere. More than that, I'm worried sick for my friends. If one of them is taken while I'm here...please tell me what the plan is. I need to go back as soon as possible."

The royals and guards exchanged glances before nodding, with Blueblood handing his earpiece to her. "You might want this. With how blurry our worlds are becoming, I think you will be able to reach us."

"You...you have this kind of technology already?" She asked, impressed as she took the device, making Blueblood chuckle. "It's brand new, and more importantly, it will help us coordinate our moves."

"Agreed" Ground nodded and approached Sunset. "How long will it take to reach this deserted island?"

"By normal means? A couple of weeks, if we are lucky. That place can't be found on any map" She then remembered the news about the storm. "But we have the coordinates of the storm helping us pinpoint the location...plus the rifts that are spreading...if I can only line them up...my machine could trace a route...it would be like a game of hopscotch..." She looked away and started to mumble ideas, surprising Blueblood.

"Oh dear god, do all geniuses do that?" He asked no one in particular as Nefi turned to him.

"Do what?"

"Plan mumbling," He quickly explained before calling for Sunset's attention. "Sunset?"

"Hmm?" She turned to him before blinking a couple of times. "Oh yeah, yeah, the time. Well, I said by normal means, using a boat would take weeks but with how the worlds are at the moment and with an invention of mine if there are no other issues. I would say...approximately an hour, two and a half tops, and that would involve mostly me calibrating my machine to work inside my world instead of going here. It saves energy, to tell the truth."

"Let's give thirty more, just to be safe and give you time to explain the plan to your team." The team nods and returns to the map. "Meanwhile, we will hold out and try to get as close as possible to the crater. Once you are in position, fire your magic at Dream and send him back here, where we will be ready."

"My team will have constructed a decent trap by then," The tiger-general announced with pride.

"Excellent, then let's go. The sooner we deal with that bird, the sooner we save our worlds, rescue the princesses, and put everything back to normal."

Agreeing to the plan, everyone prepared to leave when an out-of-breath soldier burst into the room. "Sir...we...we have...a situation."

"What is it?" Blueblood asked, concerned, and as if to answer his question, a wave of white feathers hit the soldier's side, bearing him to the ground. "More...breaches," He managed to mumble before being claimed by the land of slumber.

Springing forth, the guards took up their positions and observed as more breaches in space appeared. From them, fully developed sandmen stepped forth, forming a line before opening their mouths unnaturally and blowing a stream of feathers. The unicorns acted fast and erected a barrier that stopped the feathers and sandmen's advance.

"What is happening?" Nefi questioned, clinging to Blueblood.

"The tears in space, they are getting worse. What are those feathers?" Sunset replied, eyeing one of them with curiosity and sniffing the perfumed scent they emitted that was enough to make her drowsy.

"Whatever it is, it seems to put you to sleep by touch," Ground summarized, flipping the heavy table and pushing it into place to block the doors. "Sunset now! Open the portal!

"What about you?"

"We'll manage somehow, now, quickly! Before they reach us," Blueblood demanded, using his magic to keep the windows from shattering as sandmen could be seen scaling the walls and trying to break through. Outside, they could see a giant hoard of sandmen rising from the ground itself, making it look like the desert just came alive, and giant sandmen's torsos and the head were starting to form, blocking even more from view.

Agreeing, Sunset pressed her wristwatch, and a white tear appeared in the room. The generals took stock of their situation and exchanged silent glances before nodding; they all grabbed hold of their respective rulers and charges.

"Hey, what are you doing?!" Nefi demand

"Ground! Put me down!" Blueblood screamed, fearing how his spell was wavering.

"I'm sorry, your highnesses, but it's the only way."

"It is our duty. We will buy you enough time to make your escape. Please don't think ill of us. It is in our creed, above all else..."

"...we must protect our liege!" They roared out in pride simultaneously before tossing both royals into the tear and pushing Sunset inside. The royals reached out for them as they smiled and saluted. The last thing the royals saw and heard was the sound of glass shattering, and all the soldiers were swallowed up by sand.

Stumbling into another room. Blueblood saw the breach and tried to go to it, but Nefertiti stopped him, hugging his frame and pinning him to the floor. "Let me go, let me GO! I can still save them!" He pleaded, but the lioness did not let go as the tear closed behind them.

"No! We could have saved them, but there was...!

"They're gone, Blueblood!" Nefertiti said in between sobs and with an angry tone, "They are all gone. Don't let their sacrifice be in vain."

He shivered but stopped thrashing around as he pounded on the floor

"Damn it, DAMN IT!" He punched the ground in frustration.

"We will rescue them, Blue. We will rescue everyone, trust me," She promised.

He nodded and openly wept. "I hate this."

"Me too, Bluey, me too" She tightened the hug. "But that is what being a royal guard is. To lay down their lives for the Crown." The Prince could feel tears on the back of his neck. "The only thing we can do now is be worthy of that loyalty and devotion." The two royals had a small moment to weep for the fallen, lying there on the ground, trying their best to recover.
> School In Shambles High (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Deciding to give them some time, Sunset left the two royals alone in the room and met up with her friends outside to fill them in on everything.

"What happened?" Twilight was the first to ask as the girls surrounded Sunset. "You said the other Twilight would know what to do? Why are you back so soon? Who are they? Do you even know how to stop...?" AJ interrupted her by placing a hand on her shoulder before Twilight could panic.

"Easy there, sugar cube. We should let Sunset explain."

"Thanks, AJ" Sunset then took a deep breath before looking at the group. "Ok, I have good, bad, and strange news. The good news is that I found out what is causing all this mess. The bad is that it is also affecting Equestria. Our problem? He rests on the desert island we stumbled upon during the school trip and is as strong as Discord."

"Who?" Dash questioned, crossing her arms and raising an eyebrow.

"Long story. Let's say he's a very evil demon that makes the Dazzlings and all of the other things we face look like child's play."

"And we will have to fight THAT?! " AJ asked in alarm.

"Don't worry! I have a plan, and with luck, our elements will help us defeat him before things get even worse, which by the way, they are starting to get."

"Oh my." Rarity brought her hand to her mouth, "then we better get started, darling. Tell us the plan?"

"Well...Sunset slowly looked at the door. "That is where the strange news comes in, and I will need all of you to trust me on what I'm gonna tell you."

As Sunset explained everything, Blueblood and Nefertiti had calmed down enough to speak with one another.

"God, this is a disaster." The Prince commented as he gave up on contacting the other teams after trying for the fifth time, only to receive static. He planted his head on a desk in defeat. "For all we know..."

"Stop!" Nefi grabbed his head and made him look her in the eyes. "The situation is grim enough as it is Blue. We can't start assuming the worst. I need you to stay focused on the present."

Her words struck a chord with him, not only through the sudden action but also because it gave him a brief flashback of a lesson from the past, where it was told the same.

"Snap out of it, please! I saw you in action. You managed to do the impossible and overcome much worse situations than this before. You won with all the odds stacked against you over and over again. You bested a spirit in a sword fight all by yourself! A spirit that, I remind you, has the same level of power as Discord. You did in a day what your aunts struggled to achieve in months!"

She then put her hands on his shoulders. "This is not a disaster, it is a setback, and our kingdoms are counting on us. We still have the sword, our minds, and our wills. You told us how much you want to prove to the world we are more than just pawns and pretty faces, right? Then this is our chance to prove our mettle. Now more than ever, we can't give into despair. Everyone needs us, and I need you."

"They...need us" A series of images flashed within the Prince's mind as he remembered the faces of his family, his friends, his kingdom, and the promise he made to Princess Luna.

"Not gonna get a rest," He whispered to no one, confusing the princess as she let him go. "Y-You are right, Nefi" rubbing his eyes, he nodded once and looked at her with determination. "We can't just sulk here. We have a job to do, and there's not a moment to lose!"

"Thank Bastet, you are back!" She let out the breath she didn't know she was holding. "Because I'm also freaking out with what happened to my body, and I need you to calm me down!" Her mask dropped and revealed how she was on the verge of panicking as she slowly stared at her hands. The Prince was only now taking notice of how their bodies had radically changed.

"What kind of freak show did we turn into?"

Looking at himself, the Prince was confused by how his body now resembled that of a teenager between 14 and 16 years old, maybe even reaching 17. He was above average in height with broad shoulders, and his muscle mass was more pronounced as he could feel and see his muscles move and flex underneath the white sweater with two straight blue lines that he wore. He also wore a casual set of dark blue jeans and athletic blue tennis shoes. His hands were an unnatural eggshell white, and an errant lock of hair confirmed that he was still blonde and most likely in need of a haircut as it was starting to resemble his original shaggy style, and looking at his chest, he could see his cutie mark stitched proudly on the left pectoral like a coat of arms. The appearance and garb made him feel like he was the school's star quarterback, though that visage was broken by the ornate belts winding around his form, leading to Llamrai and Hengroen still resting in their scabbards on his right hip and back. The former still with the same glowing as before

In Nefi's case, she retained her tall and regal appearance. With her dreadlocked hair styled and with the same minor purple makeup in her eyes and lips that complement her now darkly tanned skin. The Prince found that curious since she had albino fur on her lioness form. Where her ears used to be, now sat cat-like headphones, and her hands had a complicated manicure design as they were sharp and looked like claws at first glance, and if one were to notice, they even had chibi lion heads on them. She was wearing long, tight jogging pants that hugged her slender, shapely legs nicely, a dark blue sports bra, a lion belly button piercing that revealed a well defined six pack, comfortable red running shoes, and a more petite red open sweater with fur lining the neck that complete her leonine themed attire.

The complete image caught the Prince off guard, as she reminded him of a professional athlete, most likely the captain of the gymnastics team or something.

"Huh, so this is what Twilight meant with 'humanization,'" Blueblood replied, looking at his hands.

"You know what this is?!" She asked desperately, grabbing his shoulder. "Tell me it's reversible! I miss my tail!"

"Nefi, Nefi, relax" He grabbed her hands and held them together. "This is normal. Twilight told me about it. She had a long name for it, but it's basically an adaptation to the environment. This world doesn't have sentient ponies, Abyssinians, Minotaurs, and the like, so when you arrive here. Your body adapts to it—turning you into a human equivalent. Case in point." He pointed back and forth between the two of them. "It will only last while we are here, don't worry."

"Ok, Ok, thank the gods. It is only temporary" She relaxed, and she let him go again.

He chuckled and tried to lighten the mood a little "We should consider ourselves lucky. Considering how we end up here and how this could work, we might have ended up naked or as a mindless pony and lioness with the mentality of a normal animal."

"Huh?!" She looked at him with a mix of surprise and horror.

"Nevermind, just me thinking out loud." Shaking his head, he took a deep breath and looked around the lab room, noticing the boarded-up windows with chairs and desks used to barricade them. The sight filled the Prince with sorrow as the place looked like the start of a horror movie. "Right now, we need to assess our situation and see how to deal with this setback."

Smiling, Nefi nodded and stood up before slipping, and the Prince caught her before she fell. "Sorry, it... it's hard to walk without a tail."

"Yeah, I know the feeling" Separating, he notices something on her waist. "Wait, Nefi, your waist."

"What? What about it?"

"You have a belt, but it's... backward?"

"Huh?" Looking down, she saw what he meant, and when she followed it, she noticed how the belt circled her body more than once. Getting an idea, she undid the end of the belt and sighed in relief when it easily acted as a substitute tail. "Awww, much better, thanks for noticing, Bluey" Her eyes then turn sultry, and she gets closer to him. "Were you checking me out?"

Smiling, he pats her shoulder. "We can flirt later, Nefi. There is a world to save now, and Nefi, thanks for the pep talk. I need it."

"Anytime, Bluey, but I expect a lot of answers once this is all over," She proclaimed with a raised eyebrow and a sharp nail pointed at him, to which he agreed with a laugh.

"Duly noted" Opening the door, the two startled, the group huddled together moments before and looked at the two in surprise.

"Blueblood? Nefertiti?" Sunset looked at them with a mix of surprise and worry. "How are you feeling?"

He shook his head and shrugged. "As best as we can, I suppose. Thanks for giving us a moment to breathe, Sunset." He gave her a thumbs up. "We needed that, and now that we are here, Nefi and I are ready to help put our plan into action."

"Yeah, about that..." Sunset looked away with some embarrassment, but before she could say anything, Nefertiti decided to get the introductions out of the way.

"Greetings, everyone," Nefi gives the group a perfect formal curtsy. "Sorry for the delayed introductions, but my partner and I needed a moment to mourn our losses. You seem to know him to some degree already, so allow me to introduce myself first. My name is Princess Nefertiti the First, princess of the Abyssinians. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"Aww, eh h-hi?" Twilight tried to reply as she and the rest weren't sure how to follow that introduction. Luckily Rarity came to their rescue with a curtsy of her own.

"Greetings, your Highness. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I speak for all my friends when I say that you two have nothing to worry about and can trust us. We will save your world in no time."

"What?" The royals look at her confused before turning their gazes to Sunset, who looked human, just like they are.

"Y-Yeah, I meant to tell you. Your Highness, I know we had a different plan. But the invasion destroyed any chance to do what we originally planned, so we developed a new idea, and well, you are powerless now." She ended with a nervous chuckle.

"Powerless?" Blueblood repeated with a quirked eyebrow

A teen that resembled Rainbow Dash sighed and stepped forward. "Look, dude, we are trying to be gentle here, and it's cool you want to help and all, but I think you should leave this to the experts." She showed them her pendant before disappearing and reappearing behind him, startling the two. "Maybe in Equestria, you had magic and that fancy army, but here you are no different than anyone else. No offense, but you would only get in our way."

"Dagnabbit Dash! Could you be any blunter in your delivery?!" The one that had a striking resemblance to Applejack scolded her friend with a glare.

"What? It's true!" Dash shrugged and looked at her, confused, making AJ sigh and causing the situation to grow tense.

"I'm sorry, but after everything we shared. You want us to step aside and do nothing while you go and risk your lives without any backup?!" Blueblood demanded with a glare of his own. His eyes focused on Sunset, who squirmed under his gaze.

"Please, darling, don't take this the wrong way. The magic here can be tricky, and we wouldn't want to risk getting you hurt if it can be avoided." The Rarity look-a-like mentioned, trying to defuse the situation brewing.

"Avoided?! Our bravest soldiers quite possibly gave their lives so we could be here. They put their trust in us, believing we can save them and the rest of the world, and you are just going to tell us to relax in some panic room while everyone ELSE...!" He stopped when Nefi grabbed his shoulder, and looking back, he saw her shaking her head and glaring at him. The pointed look was enough to reduce some of his anger and let them talk.

"Look, we appreciate your concern, but we are trained and can take care of ourselves," The princess tried to negotiate. "We can still be of use to you."

"And we appreciate the offer, b-but m-maybe you could be of more help if you don't help us?" Fluttershy suggested shyly before backing away. "If that is ok with you, that is."

"WHAT?!" The Prince exclaimed, feeling insulted right now.

Watching Fluttershy flinch in surprise made Blueblood realize what he was doing and snuffed out his indignation. It did not help when AJ and Pinkie consoled their friend and glared at him.

"We are just wanting to help partner, simmer down." AJ scowled at him

"Yeah, there is no reason to be a meanie either," Pinkie added.

Taking some deep breaths, the Prince closed his eyes and repeated the breathing exercises Cadence taught him.

"Pinkie...all of you, for that matter. They are our people, or family, or friends."

"All the more reason for you to stop complaining and let us just do our thing!" Dash pressed, earning a glare from both royals as they slowly growled at her.

Not wanting to make things even tenser, Sunset gets in between them.

"What we mean is! That we get it, you are worried sick! But, and here me out, what we are saying is nothing personal. It's just, well...While I wouldn't use the same words, Rainbow Dash is right. You have no magic; you don't know how our world works; you don't even know how to walk properly." Sunset started to list off, and Blueblood realized that he and Nefi had to rely on each other to unconsciously retain some of their balance. Something they begin to notice and help them relax and see what she means.

As much as they hate to admit she was right. They were useless at the moment.

"But, what about Llamrai, my sword? What about...?" Blueblood remembered and looked down at his waist at the enchanted item

"We were discussing that too," Twilight intervened, surprising Blueblood with her similarities with Twilight. "May I see it?"

"T-Twily?"

Sunset tapped his shoulder and shook his head. "Not the same, remember Blueblood? They are counterparts."

"Right, right, she isn't her. Just her equivalent...another version of the family I need to save..."

"Blueblood?" Sunset repeated, snapping him back to reality. "Are you ok?"

"Y-Yeah just...just shaken. I'm apprehensive about my cousin, so seeing her like this is...oh right, right, the sword. You wanted to see it, right?" He turned and carefully unsheathed Llamrai for this Twilight to inspect closely. "Careful with that. It's a bit heavy and very sharp."

He warned, and when Twilight tried to grasp the hilt, the sword's weight made her almost drop it and put the edge on the floor. "No joking there. How do you carry this thing?!" She asked, impressed, and he chuckled briefly

"Tons of practice and daily exercise" He flexed his arm for emphasis.

"Yeah, right, come on, Twilight, let me hold it." Dash offered herself up and took the sword, only to be surprised when the same thing happened, but even worse since she was now having trouble keeping the hilt upwards, confusing the Prince a little into why that was happening, not remembering his sword being THAT heavy either. After a couple of seconds, AJ approached her friend and crossed her arms with a smirk.

"Need a hand?"

"Just...take it already!" Dash demanded, struggling and about to drop the sword making Applejack chuckle and shake her head.

"Ok, ok, just step aside and let me..." AJ tried to pick it up without a care in the world, only for the weapon to drop altogether, clattering to the floor and leaving everyone speechless "What the...?" Shocked, AJ used both hands and tried to lift the sword, but it didn't budge an inch, gaining the attention of everyone. "What in tarnation is this thing made of!" AJ yells, not wanting to give up.

Blinking Blueblood kneels down and carefully grabs the edge, lifting Llamrai without issue and, by accident, making AJ trip and fall on her butt.

"What is with you guys? This isn't that heavy." He mentions with a raised eyebrow before noticing the cracks in the floor. "...Right?"

"We should be asking you that question! How come you can l-l-lift...?" AJ and the rest turned pale when the shadow of Blueblood expanded, and from it, giant blue-green reptilian's eyes glared at the group, causing them to gulp in terror before say eyes disappeared once the Prince turned back, looking at what they were staring at.

"Ah... Blueblood, where did you find this sword exactly?" Sunset asks with a worried edge in her voice.

"Oh, I didn't find it. Discord made it for me, or rather found a blacksmith that made it for me. Using the remains of Nightmare Moon," He explained with pride, freezing Sunset with his words, while Dash raised an eyebrow.

"Vice Principal Luna's stage name during her heavy metal phase?" She asks out loud

“....I’m sorry what?” The royals could only blink in confusion at that statement 

“I bet Nightmare is a bit different in their world. Dash," AJ reminded her with a deadpan tone as she nodded.

"Pretty cool, right? Maybe it only works for Equestrians?" He suggested offering the handle to Sunset, only for her to back away!

"No! I mean...no, thanks. It is clear that it is enchanted and has a sort of... owners-only lock." She sighed, calming down. "See? This is what we meant? Magic works differently here. And it appears that in the case of your sword, it means that only you can wield it. Can you hold it and let us examine it?"

"Sure?" He held it forth with both hands, and Twilight got closer to inspect it, seeing the faint glow emanating from the sword. "Fascinating, yes, we could use that. Blueblood, I think we know how you two can help us" She looked at the two with a smile.

"Really? How?"

"Come with me," She instructed, and all of them returned to the lab as Twilight approached the portal, which the royals now paid close attention to. In the middle of the room was a small circular metallic stage with long, thick cables connected to it, a big spherical glass was held together by a metallic frame attached to the stage, and in the spheres center was the rip in space, occasionally discharging energy in the form of electricity.

A couple of meters from the contraption was a podium with a control panel and a cable connected to the machine.

"This is the portal to Equestria we improvised," Twilight began to explain, approaching the control panel.

"Impressive, right?" Rainbow beamed with pride. "We build that baby with our bare hands while dealing with those sand freaks all over the place."

"Which are still a pressing problem, and that is how you could help us out." Sunset explained while motioning for the two to get closer so they could see a computer screen in the room. They could see an aerial view of a city, with small red circles drawn everywhere.

"These are the locations where breaches are spawning, based on the level of mana output, the rate of propagation, level of electromagnetic interference..." Twilight began to explain the technical intricacies until Sunset intervened.

"Short version is that we manage to pinpoint where, when, and how many tears will be on this established radius," She resumes circling the screen. "This is good because we have determined a pattern with when and how new tears appear. For example, if one appears here," She points at one in the mall, "three smaller ones appear ten minutes later around it."

"So far, we have been lucky. that the first ones appeared sporadically and far apart." Twilight continues. "But if my calculations are correct, we are running out of time, and they are starting to form a pattern and follow an increasingly short timetable." She started to work on the computer before highlighting the school's area with a transparent green circle. "This is where we are now, and since we close this tear, we are relatively safe for now."

"The bad thing is that the sky keeps ripping open everywhere," AJ explained with a frustrated sigh and looked away. "We thought we would close those holes using our magic, but it never ends."

"Why does closing the portals keep us safe?" Nefi queried, intrigued by the information on display.

"Because it cut off the magic supply to the sandmen" Pinkie showed them a crude image drawn on a whiteboard of a portal and humanoid creature connected by a blue waving arrow. "No portal, no monster, that just turns into regular sand" She crosses the arrow and draws a pile of sand. "See? Magic, no magic, no magic, yes, no, no? Yes," She keeps flipping the images rapidly for emphasis.

"Of course, their connection to Equestria, where they have magic, but here they must obey its natural laws," Blueblood concluded with a nod.

"Exactly, and that is what I meant, with how we are running out of time." Twilight resumed showing three big red circles around the school. "Before, they appeared sporadically, but according to my calculations, the tears are starting to form a pattern. From what Sunset told us, they are slowly forming a sinkhole around the school, just like the one on the island." She showed more tears appearing in a triangular sequence in the red zones.

"Now I understand why, and I can help you determine how long before the next breach appears and where it will appear, where we would need you to help us close them in order to gain time."

She starts a countdown clock showing a 45 minutes count. "This is the estimated time Sunset and I would need to prepare the portal" She then showed them another countdown clock with 30 minutes. "This is how much time we have before the breaches intersect, and when they do..."

The three red circles connected right at the school, and the screen is filled with breaches. "It would be beyond our abilities. We would be unable to repel or block that kind of assault from all directions at once.

"So we need to buy more time then?" Nefi asks with a raised eyebrow looking at the screen.

"We can divide ourselves into teams," Sunset nods. "AJ and Dash, as the strongest and fastest, can take the north side" They put the respective dots on each zone. "Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie can take the east, which is where the zoo is located, and you and Nefertiti could help us out going to the west using that sword of yours to close as many portals as you can. Meanwhile, Twilight and I will work as fast as we can to prepare and tell you to come back once we are ready."

"By my calculations, once we go to the island, the breaches will stop, and you can leave the rest to us," Twilight assured them.

"See? you can help too," Pinkie cheers hugging both as she appears behind the royals.

"Sounds easy enough, and what do we do with the sandmen?" Blueblood ask them

"Avoid them at all costs, and if you have to fight, do it from a distance," Dash replies immediately. "If those nasty things touch you or vice versa, you will fall asleep in no time, so just go in, close the portal, and go out."

I-If your sword can be used that way, and that is ok with you, your Highness," Fluttershy replied with concern as Blueblood glanced at his weapon before nodding.

"It seems easy enough, and I trust the elements of Equestria. I'm sure we can figure out a way to use them."

"Excellent! Then you will need this" Sunset handed her cell phone to Nefi, who looked at it in interest. "Until we can figure out a way to restore your earpieces. You can borrow my phone and call Twilight if anything happens. Our numbers are on the speed dial."

"Speed dial, noted. Just a quick question... what is a speed dial?"

"I will explain on the way," Blueblood replied before Sunset or Twilight could say anything, which only made Sunset more suspicious. "Ok, seems like we have a mission then, let's go everypony there is no time to waste" He and Nefi rush out of the room, leaving the girls blinking in confusion.

"Do they even know where to go and what to expect?" Dash asked, looking at the rest, who shook their heads, making her signs, "Can't we just send them on a goose chase instead?"

"DASH!" Fluttershy scold at her

"Hey, the princess chick might be able to help but come on, girls, that is Blueblood. Blueblood, remember? Mr. pain in the rear? Mr. I'm better than anyone? The only student, the principal herself, paid to send far away?"

"I told you already he's not the same Blueblood." Sunset reminds her. "But you are right about something. There is something weird going on with that stallion."

"Seriously, sugar cube? Didn't you see how desperately he wanted to help?" AJ pointed out, "This one is not the same person we know and hate, and this is no time to start eyeballing honest people who just want to help."

"Eh, I still would keep an eye on him. I bet all his confidence comes from that weird magic sword of his. Take that away, and he is probably the same whiny, obnoxious brat that we have."

The group stared at her and crossed their arms until she rolled her eyes. "Fine! I will give him a chance and tell them what to expect. But he better actually do some work."

They all watched as Rainbow Dash ran away in a blur.
> Will Of Stubborn Crowns (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With creatures pounding at the entrance, threatening to break the doors open, the available earth ponies did their best to keep the sand monsters at bay while the unicorns and pegasi rushed to keep any new breaches from appearing.

Platinum watched all this unfold and felt her heart pounding a mile a minute. "They won't last for much longer. Are you not ready yet?!" She shouted desperately, turning to look at Sierra, who was working as fast as she could on a table while Rarity and Skystar did what they could to assist.

"It is almost done. I'm worried that I couldn't test it first, but, desperate times." Sierra answered, finishing welding what appeared to be a spherical gadget with a micro globe in the middle surrounded by three golden rings. Putting it on, she applied pressure on the frame until there was a satisfying 'click,' and the rings came to life, spinning around the globe at an incredible pace. The globe contained within began to shine with a ghostly blue light. Then it discharged a powerful wave of magic that soon covered the entire castle and blasted through the creatures turning them into fragile glass that broke apart and reduced to dust before the wind carried it away. Additionally, all the breaches within the area of effect began to close rapidly, sealing shut in a matter of moments.

Sighing in relief, the mares let go of a breath they didn't know they were holding and sat down as the gadget kept spinning until it broke.

"Well, that will have to do for now," Sierra commented as she took the now-broken bauble away and tossed it into a pile of broken inventions. "Let us pray that one lasts."

"Any word from the rest?" Platinum asked, looking at the group as Rarity shook her head

"Applejack and Sparrow are no longer answering since she told me about a giant sand monster breaking through the rooftop. Fluttershy's group is still ok since they keep sending the 'radio silence' code. As ironic as it sounds, that grassy field must be protecting them. Pinkie still has her hooves full with how many ponies keep appearing in the dreamscape and Blueblood..." She didn't have the heart to finish that sentence and looked away.

Getting the message, Platinum moved to sit with them and lowed her head in sorrow.

"He's still out there!" Sierra surprised them as they looked at her working on something new. "I know it."

"Sierra...Blueblood," Sky tried to reason, but Sierra shook her head in denial.

"You heard the transmission when AJ was cut off. There was no sound, but when it happened to Blueblood, we just caught static, which means it is still there, but the signal can't reach us...yet. I know he is ok. He wouldn't fall so easily."

Smiling, Rarity nodded. "She's right. That stallion is too stubborn to let this keep him down. So if we can't reach him, it is only a matter of boosting the signal."

Sky nodded hopefully and looked to Sierra. "How can we help?"

"You can work on doing what Rarity said while I..." She showed them what appeared to be a pocket watch showing the day and night cycles "...finish putting the Sky back to normal. That's what Blue asked me to do, and by Fenrir's teeth, I will finish it!" She then passed them a blueprint. "This is the original design I used when making those earpieces, and the central unit to receive all transmissions like the one I made for Sparrow, I would help you with it, but I know you all could get the basic idea down, right?"

The mares look at one another before smiling and nodding. "You got this, Sierra."

"Team Inventors on the move!" Rarity and Sky got to work as Platinum smiled at the display.

They are good mares. You have great taste in mates grand nephew.

Now more relaxed, Platinum stood up and headed to the door. "I will see how the guards are fairing and look for someone to bring you all some food while you are working, ladies." They didn't pay attention and only nodded as Platinum closed the door behind her.

Meanwhile, in the human universe

After Dash managed to catch up to them and explain everything they needed to know about the area they were heading to, Sunset's phone, and how to operate it. The two royals made their way inside the city mall, where a hoard of sandmen roamed the floors aimlessly like a pack of zombies or rested, becoming mounds of sand covering their sleeping victims.

As the two had a moment of silence, an eerie whisper began ringing in the prince's ear, which both confused and surprised him as he looked around for the source and turned to Nefertiti to see if she had heard it too.

...Nephew...help us... His eyes widened when he saw the ghostly image of his aunts and all the denizens of Equestria screaming and reaching out toward him as if to be rescued.

Shaking his head, the prince blinked and shook off the vision upon seeing everything back to normal. He tapped Nefi's shoulder to get her attention. "Come on. We need to keep moving."

Nodding once, Nefi followed his lead, and the two snuck around using the second floor and large public decorations to hide and skulk around. The two got more used to their new bodies by the minute. After finding the first portal and repeating the actions he took in Equestria, The two were relieved to see how the elements were still working the same as before, and one beam of light was enough to close the portal and reduce all the creatures readily visible into normal sand.

After repeating the process several more times, the two found themselves traversing through an empty hallway as they looked for the remaining portal using the map function on the cell phone.

With the tense silence and after glancing at Blueblood, who seemed as distressed as her, Nefi couldn't hold it anymore and, with a sigh, stopped in the middle of the hallway. "Wait."

Her voice wasn't loud, but it was enough with how quiet the place was. Certainly enough to catch the prince's attention, who looked at her but not before taking three steps forward. "What is it?"

"We need to talk."

"Really? Right now?"

"Yes, right now!" Frustrated, she snapped, "We need to form our plan, and I'm sure you are thinking the same thing. Look at us, Blueblood. We went from commanding our kingdoms and armies to volunteering to do errands. Are you ok with this? Doesn't this bother you?"

"Of course it does, but what else can we do, Nefi? As much as I hate to admit it, Sunset is right. We know nothing of this world. We have no magic, no authority, and even the act of walking takes time and consideration. Plus, I thought this was what you wanted. For us to see this as an obstacle and find a solution? Maybe it is not what we had in mind, but it is something at the very least."

"That was just us compromising, and we both knew it wouldn't be the end. Especially with you, not with how this involves your family."

Her comments caught his attention as he remembered the situation with his aunts and his promise to Princess Luna.

"I know what we said and agreed on, but...it feels wrong just leaving things like this. I keep having this sensation that we are being led around by the nose. Just like our families used to do with us." Nefi hugged herself and looked away.

Blueblood looked down and sighed in frustration. "I know the feeling, and trust me. I'm with you 100%. Every fiber of my being wants to go to that island and save my family right now! But, Nefi, we need to face the music. We lost all of our powers. There is nothing else we can do as it is."

A slight gleam of the swords caught Nefertiti's attention and gave her an idea. "I wouldn't say we've lost all of them." She reminded him by pointing at the blades, gaining the attention of Blueblood.

"The elements? Nefi, what are you implying?"

"It's clear you still have a connection to them, and they told us how magic exists here but works differently, so why don't we make the most of it and find a way to be more helpful? Think about it, Blueblood. Didn't Twilight Sparkle tell you about this place? Isn't there something we could use? According to her stories, she often visits."

Blueblood was still unsure as he gazed into his reflection on the swords flat until Nefi touched his shoulder. "We already agree on an adventure into uncharted territory anyway. What difference would breaking one or two more rules make at this point?"

He thought about and recalled the promise he made to them and his aunt before ultimately nodding. "You're right, Nefi. Just because we want to help the girls doesn't mean we are just going to wait for someone else to tell us what to do." He smiled and nodded at her, brimming with determination. "And regarding your question, I think I remember a theory Twilight once told me about."

He looked around until he noticed the sports section in the mall. "There," He pointed and guided her inside the place. "According to her, in this world, magic exists and can be wielded by anyone, but it needs a physical medium to work, like a piece of cloth, a weapon like my swords, or the pendants that the elements have. She also mentioned an incident in which her counterpart accidentally enchanted a pendant, so it absorbed magic through contact. If that is possible, logic dictates that the opposite can be done too, and luckily we have a type of magic that has no issue being shared."

"Now we are talking! That way, they would not have any choice but to let us tag along! Blueblood, you are a genius! I can't wait for that arrogant mare to see us after our little makeover."

He stopped once he spotted what he was looking for- a pair of climbing gloves. "These would do," He instructed and drew out Llamrei. "Pick a pair that you like."

"Ok, I love the idea, but I would change one little thing" She slowly looked back and stared at a jewelry store outside until Blueblood cleared his throat.

"This is still technically stealing Nefi. That is why I picked the sports store, for practicality. I think a pair of gloves would be easier to reimburse for than jewelry." He pointed out with a forced smile. "that reminds me" He ripped an advertisement flyer and pasted it down on the counter before quickly retrieving a pen, leaving a note stating to charge the gloves to Sunset and her phone number, "There. So I can pay for it later."

"Oh, but Bluey! Come on!"

"Nefi!"

"Oh, ok! But you owe me a nice necklace once we return to Equestria."

"Deal" He smiled naturally and nodded as she went and started looking for a pair to pick.

Finding a set colored white and red with black on the palm, she tried them on and extended her palms to admire them better. "Hmm, they are not like any other gloves I have tried on before, but they are surprisingly comfy." Satisfied with her choice, she made a fist and extended her arms at Blueblood. "Ok, I'm ready, do your thing."

"Have you taken leave of your senses? I won't blast you with the elements at point-blank range!"

"Why not? Sure, they banished ancient evils in the past but as ironic as it sounds and where they are now. The elements are not weapons." She reminded him. "You wouldn't hurt me unless that is what you intended. Do you want that?"

"Of course not!"

"Then there is nothing to worry about! Just fire away." she extended her fist at him once again.

"Hmm, ok, but I'll be careful. I'm still learning, and the last thing I want is to turn you into stone or give you a shock." Convinced, Blueblood raised his sword and aimed it at her fist, the tip of his weapon starting to shine.

Focusing on that light. The prince watched as a tiny thread of rainbow light extended that split into two and gently touched the gloves, causing them to glow with a deep gold color and emit a soothing warmth.

Nefi shivered happily at the sensation and had difficulty keeping her hands still. "No wonder Equestria wanted to keep elements for themselves. It tingles," She confessed with a surprised though contented giggle.

Happy by the results, the prince poured out the magic a little faster, intrigued and surprised when he noticed the gloves morph and extend, beginning to look more like a pair of gauntlets before returning to normal. Sighing in exhaustion, Blueblood almost dropped Llamrei and chuckled as Nefi admired her new weapons. They all share a brief laugh at their small victory until the sound of a trash can being tossed, followed by a female scream, surprised them.

Exchanging glances, they nod and exit the store, following the noise, trying to keep to the shadows until they found the source and saw a small group of people trying to escape from a horde of monsters chasing after them on the floor below.

"They are in trouble."

"Wait!" Nefi stopped him and pointed to the portal. "That breach is about to spawn more, and those four alerted the hive. You take care of that." She then raised her newly enchanted gloves. " and I help them out."

"But..."

"And before you say that, I have to study unicorn magic. I have a rough concept of how it works. Trust me. We Abyssinians are notoriously quick learners."

The prince nodded, and with a mixture of trust and curiosity about how her magic would manifest, he decided to follow her plan as they split to their respective tasks.

As that happened, the escaping group was making their way to the second floor, trying to lose their pursuers, until one of them tripped and fell to the ground. Raising his head, he saw how the remaining three kept running.

"Hey! What are you doing?! Come save me," He half pleaded, half demanded, yet the woman only smirked, looking back at him.

"Survival of the fittest, honey! Be a doll and buy us some time." The woman with long poofy orange hair called out as the others laughed and headed to the second floor only to discover another swarm of creatures waiting for them.

In shock, she tried to stop, but the other two pushed her forward and into the arms of one of the creatures. In anger and fear, the woman grabbed her closest friend's hand and dragged her in. This one sporting long purple hair arranged in two ponytails. With only one woman with long blue hair set in a single ponytail remaining, she quickly ran down the stairs before another monster could grab her until she tripped and she landed on the boy they had left behind.

They didn't have time to argue with each other as they were quickly surrounded and could only hug the other in fear as their fate seemed sealed. Suddenly a golden flash spread through the sand, and the monsters looked up to see a descending Nefertiti covered in golden electricity that coalesced in her arms and discharged in the form of massive claws around her hands.

Slamming into the ground, she created an electromagnetic wave that destroyed most of the monsters before she got up and channeled the energy into her feet before a white flash burst forth, making it seem like she didn't move, but only for a moment before a barrage of images of the brawler appeared obliterating a monster with each still image before any of them could touch her or the two she was guarding.

"Oh, WOW! By Bastet, talk about a rush of adrenaline! Bluey, you are so getting a kiss for this present." Nefi said to no one in particular as her electricity receded into her gauntlets, then gloves while she admired their transformation process. Soon the remaining monsters that were moving to attack turned into sand, and the prince waved at her from the end of the hallway with a thumbs up. She, in turn, winked and blew him a kiss before turning to the survivors.

"Are you two ok?" She asked with concern but froze the second she spotted something familiar.

Once they had calmed down enough, the young man didn't waste time and angrily pushed the woman away and tried to pat down his hair as it stood up from a bit of wayward static. "Unhand me, you two-timing snake! You left me to die!" He complained as he slowly stood up. The teenager in question seemed to be the same age as Blueblood and was wearing a complete set of expensive designer clothes, including high-class running shoes, fashionable jeans, a gray, slightly puffy sweatshirt with a familiar compass rose on its back, and a pair of big headphones on the neck. His skin was white, and he had a mop of long golden hair.

"Considering the complete and utter pain in the ass you have been these past weeks, you should consider yourself lucky we didn't just throw you at them from the third floor," The teenage girl shouted back, standing up and pointing at the boy. She is between 14 and 16 as well. Her skin was blue, her hair was long and arranged in a single ponytail with two tones of blue, and she wore an ensemble of pink clothes, a formal dark pink jacket, a pink mini skirt, long pink boots, and a pink wristband with spikes on it.

The two would have continued arguing if not for the woman's eyes suddenly widening, and she looked back to the other two lay buried. "Adagio, Aria!" She tried to rush to their aid, but Nefi grabbed her wrist.

"Forget them, miss, I'm sorry, but they're gone," She explained sorrowfully. The unnamed teen struggled momentarily before letting out a keening wail and collapsing to the floor as Nefi tried to console her. "It's ok. We are working on a way to save everyone. You will see them again, miss...?"

"...Sonata," She finally replies

"Huh?"

She cleans her eyes and looks at the princess. "My name...is Sonata. Thanks for saving me."

"It was nothing..." Nefi smiled but then is interrupted by the rude young man

"Serves them right. That is what they got for abandoning a prestigious honor student." The teenage boy snarked, earning a glare from the woman. "As for you." He turns to Nefi.

"I have no idea who you are, but you are late. A rescue team should have been here days ago! No matter, drop the peasant and let us leave this hell hole. I imagine you had a limousine ready?"

"Blue...Blood?" Nefi repeated, still not believing what she saw and having her hands full, preventing Sonata from strangling the rude teen.

"I'm coming!" Blueblood replied, rushing toward the group

"How are they? Is everyone fine?" He asked, concerned until he managed to take a good look at the humans and stopped. The two boys stared at each other in shock as the prince found himself looking at a slightly shorter and skinnier version of himself with better clothes.

"Oh please, merciful Faust, no! Please no! NOOOOO! " The woman Nefi held was frozen at the sight before her. "There are TWO Bluebloods now?! I'm officially in hell."
> The Good, The Bad And The Bratty (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rubbing her eyes and yawning, Penny slowly returned to the waking world. While Fluttershy and Cadence slept nearby, the raging blizzard outside remained. The sound of the wind alone was enough to bring shivers to the novelist. Standing up, she saw Pharynx and his two guards kept vigil, staring into the blizzard outside at the top of an improvised door they made from a piece of the trunk. Next to them was a pile of fruit they collected and some long leaves that Penny only now noticed that they used as an improvised blanket as all others were used by the resting ponies and the family of bunnies peacefully asleep.

"Good morning, Prince Pharynx," Penny called while stretching before looking at his guards "Gentlestallions."

"Ma'am," one replied as they nodded, acknowledging her presence before resuming their guard.

"Glad to see you well rested. How are you feeling?" Pharynx asked her before taking another glance outside.

"Mostly drowsy, but I can resume my job. Is that what you are asking? How long did I sleep?"

"A couple of hours would be my best guess, and I don't think that will be an option anymore." He pointed to the pile of fruit. "Go ahead and eat. Soon we will all need our strength." he stated somberly, "Even my changelings and I will need to ask Cadence for a favor by giving us a bit of her love to feed upon, just in case."

"Why? What happened while I was gone?" Penny raised an eyebrow and glanced outside the door only to see how, within the wind and snow, there seemed to be strange sand creatures shambling around aimlessly as vines tried to grab them, some of them collapsing and being quickly reclaimed by nature. In contrast, others wilted the flora where they marched.

"It's kind of a long story, but the short version is that things are starting to get worse" Pharynx and Penny backed away from the door so they could talk properly. "Another one of Discord brothers, that Dream creature you warned us of earlier. He started messing with dimensional travel, and as a result, cracks and sand appeared everywhere. We lost contact with Sparrow, and it seems like Sierra is not faring any better in Canterlot. About half an hour ago, those things appeared, and the plants seem to have them in a stalemate."

"So we're trapped now?"

"Not necessarily, from what I gathered, those sand creatures hunt by sound which is why I put our communication in radio silence, and the plants seem more interested in repelling them than trapping us. So we could use that and the weather to our advantage. Although we will need a new approach." He poked the ground. "Tell me, Penny, can your command of plants move in any direction? 

Understanding the implications, Penny looked at the floor in surprise before looking back at the changeling. "You want us to tunnel our way to the city?"

"It's our best bet, and more importantly, it would give us the perfect cover to sneak inside without alerting either side. Once we are safe, we can figure out our next move. But at the moment, it is best if we allow those two forces to fight and tire themselves out."

Penny thought it over before nodding. "Seems like a solid plan." She approached the trunk wall and touched it with one of her hooves before slowly closing her eyes and breathing. Soon after, the wood started to creak and move, startling the group as some guards eyed the exit with worry when the sand creatures slowly turned their attention to the tree, following the sound.

"Penny!" Pharynx called out in alarm, but she interrupted him.

"I know, Pharynx, don't worry. I have this under control, and it's better if we move now before the storm ends." Opening her eyes, which glowed ethereal green, Penny managed to summon a series of thick, long roots which spiraled up and swallowed the tree whole before the sand could reach them.

Back in the human world

"You picked up two stragglers?" Dash asked in confusion once Nefertiti finished her story. At the same time, her group took a short break in the food court to eat and calm everyone's nerves, much to the annoying Blueblood's dread. Still, once he was reminded/threatened about how nobody would pick him up if he fell behind because of hunger, he swallowed his pride and ate as well.

Thinking it was for the best, the Princess decided to fill the rest of the group in on what was happening with a group call, much to Twilight and Sunset's amazement. She also chose to omit the part about her and Prince Blueblood sharing magic for the moment.

"I think the term you are looking for is survivors." Nefi corrected. "And yes, that is what we did. Sandmen chased them when we were going to close the final portal. What else were we supposed to do? Let the monsters take them?"

"No, you're right. That was the right call." Sunset admitted with a sigh. "Were they the only ones?"

"The only ones we could find, yeah, we checked the mall twice to make sure, oh and by the way, all the portals here are closed."

"Wait, already? How did you clear the whole place so fast?" Dash asked, shocked

"We told you we can take care of ourselves. Want us to help out on your end too, honey?"

"Ok, partner, settle down. It is not a competition either," AJ replied before Dash could start something. "And I wouldn't be cheering victory yet, sugar cube. That was just the first wave."

"But thanks anyway." Fluttershy interjected. "Ah, and maybe if it's ok with you, you could keep an eye out for any more survivors?"

"That sounds like a delightful idea, darling, it would be a weight off our shoulders, and you could help us even more while we fix the issue." Rarity agreed, causing Nefi to roll her eyes.

Nice try, but it will take more than that to keep us off of this mission. "We will keep our eyes open."

"Thanks and Applejack is right. Twilight spotted multiple hot spots about to flare up near your position. You better stay in the mall. It has more space and multiple routes to use if you need to escape." Sunset instructed. "Call us if anything else happens."

"Understood" Nefi ended the call and looked back worriedly as the bratty Blueblood and Sonata had been complaining since they sat down.

"Seriously, the thought of having to eat this garbage is disgusting! How are you even considering eating those...those...things?" Bratblood complained, lifting a taco in disbelief, while his counterpart decided to tune out the noise for a moment as his mind had millions of thoughts bouncing around, all vying for attention first.

"Oh no, I did not just hear that. Your whining is one thing, but don't you dare insult tacos!" Sonata warned, "I will admit that being cold robs them of some of their flavors, but nothing is more delicious than this." She raised one from the mountain of tacos she picked and wolfed down.

"It's peasant food, for heaven's sake! And you!" He looked at Blueblood in rage and disbelief as he enjoyed a couple of his own tacos. "Have you no shame? Where is your pride? Where is your honor? What kind of me are you anyway? How can you eat this garbage without any issue?"

Blueblood gave his counterpart a deadpan look and shook his head in disappointment. "Is this it? This is what you are even after all of this?" He picked up his taco and made a show of unwrapping it. "A brat that can only complain, even in the face of the freaking apocalypse?! Seriously?! This is all that you can do?!"

"What?" Bratblood can only ask in a mix of surprise and fear at his sudden outburst. Sonata is in a similar position, not expecting that reply.

"Blueblood?" Nefi asks, approaching the table, and the two men turn to look at her. "My Blueblood," She clarified, chuckling at them both before addressing her partner. "You got a minute?"

He sighs and nods before passing the taco to Sonata. "Please don't kill each other."

"Hey, that is mine!" Bratty complained as Blueblood stood up and followed Nefi away.

"Oh, now you want it?" The two continued arguing while the royals walked away from that mess.

"Mafdet! Talk about tension, right? I mean, that version of you? I...wow," Nefi started trying to break the ice between them.

"I know." Blueblood let out an exhausted sigh. "I heard stories. I had this mental image of him, I thought I was prepared to meet him in person if it ever happened, but that guy is exhausting! It has only been twenty minutes, and I already want to kick him in the stomach." He let go with an exhausted sigh. "And that is what my aunts had to deal with for over twenty years? TWENTY years! For all that is pure and holy, those mares are saints!"

"You can say that again. I just found a new level of respect for the royal sisters, and thank Bastet. I never met you like that. Even if...well, you know." She hinted with some embarrassment.

"Yeah, I know what you are implying. Now I see why no one was thrilled with the idea of bringing in the original owner." He looked down sorrowfully before looking back at her. "So what did Sunset say?"

"Mostly what one would expect. That it was the right thing to do, that we should stay here and be on the lookout for more survivors, and that a new wave will strike pretty soon. Translation: It's another attempt to keep us out of the bigger picture by giving us random tasks."

"Ha, as if that would be enough to tie us down." Blueblood's mood brightened as he smirked at Nefi, which she copied with a grin of her own

"My thoughts exactly. That is why I neglected to mention this little gift of yours." She wiggled her gloved fingers briefly. "But before we do anything, there is the small issue of what are we gonna do with them?" She looked over at the two still arguing survivors. "Don't get me wrong, the two seem insufferable, and I'm giving serious consideration to just ditching them, but that would just be stooping to their level, and I refuse to do that."

"Me neither, and you are right. We should do something about it." Blueblood nodded before he tried to think of a solution until he remembered his small talk with Sunset, and something came to mind. "And I may have something. Although it is not going to be pretty."

"Really? And what is that?"

"Some good old-fashioned tough love." he nodded before looking at her. "Listen, this is not gonna automatically fix the issue with him, but if we are lucky, it will point him in the right direction and, at the very least, make him a little bit less infuriating."

"At this point, I will take it. Is there anything you need me to do?"

"Just prevent Sonata from getting involved and stand back. I will work better if only I take action."

She nodded, and they returned to the table just in time, too, with how Bratblood and Sonata seemed to be getting ready to kill each other if their glares were any indication.

Clearing his throat, Blueblood caught their attention as they looked at him. "Good. at this point, I thought you would be at each other's throats." With an exhausted sigh, he gathered the garbage on the table and threw it away. "We need to talk."

"We certainly do. What in the heavens are you doing?! It's one thing eating peasant food, but now you are cleaning up like some common servant too?! I don't care where you come from, but Bluebloods do not eat anything but the finest dishes, don't do manual labor, and we certainly don't...!"

Bratblood stood up while continuing to criticize as the Prince put the plates into the correct receptacle until he finally had enough. He surprised everyone by grabbing the throat of his copy with one hand and started choking him while lifting him into the air.

"Ok, I chose my words poorly; what I meant to say is that I'm going to talk, and you are gonna listen whether you want to or not." The Prince growled with finality before dropping his counterpart onto the floor so he could recover his breath. Sonata started to get worried and made to stand up, but Nefi sat next to her, put her hand on her shoulder, and sat her down again.

"Don't worry, honey. This is directed mostly at that brat, and trust me. You do not want to miss this."

"Is this gonna be another of those ridiculous friendship lessons you ponies never shut up about?" Sonata looked at Nefi with irritation.

"I'm not a pony, and he's not like the ones you probably have heard of, but...maybe. You can call it whatever you want."

That piqued the siren's interest, and she turned to watch the scene with greater interest. "Well, if it means I get to see Blueblood kicking his butt, then I say it would be worth it." She smiled and picked up the last taco to admire the show.

The student held his neck and started coughing before glaring at the Prince in disbelief. "Have you lost your mind?!"

"No, unfortunately, I am quite sane, and I know how stubborn and boneheaded you are. I know that even if I had years to tell you what you are doing is wrong, it would be a miracle if anything stuck in that brain of yours. So if you are not going to listen to words, you might listen to this..." Blueblood started to draw Llamrai, causing his counterpart to sweat and gulp in fear.

"Against all possible odds and logic. You still ignore the state of the entire world around you. Not only yours but ours as well." The Prince advanced slowly, speaking neutrality while his counterpart started to crawl away. "Unlike you, I have people to care for, family and friends alike, an entire kingdom, all counting on us against a threat the likes of which none of us has ever faced before. Friend? Foe? It doesn't matter right now, we have a common enemy, and we all need to work together if we wish to have the slightest chance of solving this and surviving. Meaning we ALL have to pull our weight in this situation. Nefi and I are forming a plan, but I'm unsure if you can participate."

"And what do you have in mind so far?"

"You two saw Nefi in action. What you saw was but a taste of her true powers. Powers I managed to unlock using this." Blueblood saluted with the sword before it came to rest on his shoulder. "If Sonata agrees and is willing to follow our instructions, I could try to do the same for her. With some luck, it will awaken a new power within. Or, at the very least, it will return her siren's voice."

"Really?!" Sonata asked gleefully, "You think you could restore my voice? Because if you can, I would do anything!"

"We will discuss the fine details later, but we are glad to have you on board." Blueblood smiled over his shoulder and nodded to her before looking at his other self, trying to make a run for it, only for a sudden discharge of magical energy into the floor before he stopped him in his tracks. "As for you."

"H-Hey, come buddy, pal, friend...let's not do anything rash, w-we have the same face! You wouldn't want to harm this, right?... Right?!" Bratblood tried to reason until his back hit the railing of the second floor, and he found the sword poking at his chest

"Ever since we found you. All you have done is whine, complain, and boast about your greatness without proving yourself. Sonata was more grateful, and I bet she would be a much better companion and ally. In contrast, there's you. Trying to do the same with you would only be a waste of time and magic, so I think for the sake of everyone here, it's best that I cut out the unnecessary weight" He raised Llamrai in the air.

"No! Please, no, no, no!" Bratblood was in tears at this point, and finding no mercy in the eyes of the Prince, he started to look around for anyone to help him. "Y-You can't let him get away with this! Do something!"

"Why?" Nefi replied calmly, "It's true that I just met you, but I already can't stand you. My Blueblood is leagues beyond you and better in every possible way. Not to mention, he's right. What can you do? You are nothing but a dead weight to us. Something we can't afford. Sorry, but we can't play babysitter and save the world simultaneously."

"Oh, I know him way better, and I'm telling you. You are doing the world a favor. Let's end this headache with legs! Bye-bye, brat," Sonata agreed, eating her taco slowly and with a wide shark-like grin.

"No! Please have mercy! I-I'll do anything, please, don't do it!" The royals don't seem to budge and continue to look at him with contempt

With no options left, the student could only close his eyes and put his arms in front of his face while shaking like a leaf waiting for the end, yet the strike never came.

"You better remember this moment" After what he thought was an eternity of silence, the student slowly opened his eyes to see the Prince lowering his weapon and standing back, his disapproving glare still present. "Look around you, Blueblood and I mean REALLY look this time." he gestured around the empty mall. "Alone. No friends, family, or a single person willing to defend you. I just pointed a weapon at your neck, and nobody cared, heck they are encouraging me to do it!"

"I still am." Sonata quipped before Nefi patted her shoulder and shook her head.

The student kept looking at his counterpart, trying to make sense of what was going on and calm his heart, as the Prince continued, "Earlier, you asked me what kind of Blueblood I am? Well, the answer is: I'm the Blueblood that learned."

He returned the sword to its sheath. "And as much as it pains me to say it, I can see now why everyone around me keeps giving me such painful death glares. Not too long ago, I was just as insufferable as you. Heck, chances are I was even worse. You only terrorized a school. I made living in a castle unbearable. Maids and guards considered attending my every wish a punishment. I repeat, it wasn't a chore. It was a freaking punishment! " He got progressively angrier as he placed his palm over his heart.

"Do you know what that feels like? Every day the maid in charge of my care described the doors of my room as the gate to Tartarus. To be called "the vein of your kingdom." To not have a single friend, caring that you die? Lie to yourself all you want, but that hurts a lot, and even if you haven't realized it yet, that is where you are right now, so I get what you are feeling. I know how hard it is living under the gaze of so much hatred, pretending they aren't there."

"W-What do you get?" Having finally relaxed enough to respond, the student started to get angry with tearful eyes. "Fine, you changed for the better. I get it. You win! You are better than me. Rub it on my face, won't you? But don't you dare say you get me! You still had a name and a place and never had to live as a speck of dust, a blemish on those better than you. Do you know what it is like to be forever known only as the "nephew" of the principal? To live not knowing if your supposed friends really like you or only wish to get special treatment? No matter how hard you study, train, or research, everyone thinks you get the best grades because you keep gaming the system?!"

He hung his head and looked down. "In their eyes, you would never be anything else but that, so you might as well be what they expect. At least you had a family. When I started annoying them, my aunts sent me to study as far away from them as possible, so they wouldn't have to deal with me. Do you have any idea how that FEELS?!" He yelled with tears in his eyes.

Nefi glared at him and was about to give the student a piece of her mind when the Prince stopped her with a look and shook his head, making her remain silent.

"Look, this is not a competition to see who got it worse. I want to tell you that it took me dying to realize how lonely I was. Yes, we both had a crappy past, but you can't let that dictate the here and now. Wallowing in self-pity, and hating everyone, would get you nowhere."

The student looked back at the Prince and saw only understanding in his eyes. "This offer is more than just a temporary alliance. It is an opportunity to be a better you. I became better, Sonata can, and by god, you have the potential to be too if only you stop putting yourself on a pedestal and let others in. You don't need to stop saying that you are awesome. Just acknowledge that others can be too." He smiled and put his palm on his chest to reminisce. "Trust me, it is a warmth that can't be described, and you never want to end when found."

Sighing, he opens his eyes to see his counterpart looking at him, still confused and wary. "But at the end of the day, it must be your choice. Consider the scare I gave you your only warning. Care for someone and having someone to care for you will always make life brighter, more secure, and at times even funnier. Why not give it a try?"

He turned around and headed back to stand with the others. "You can take my words to heart or stay in your bubble until your end as someone unloved and forgotten."

He then looks at Sonata "There is a second wave of monsters coming soon. Nefi and I would handle it and then deal with the main issue. You two are welcome to come and help or stay and hide. Just know that if you choose the former, that means the whining and complaining stops, and you follow our orders to the letter, break that rule, and I'll let Nefi deal with you."

To emphasize Blueblood's point, the Princess electrifies her hand before Sonata, "And trust me. You don't want to make me angry." Nefi finished and then stood up and left with Blueblood, checking the phone to see where the next portal would appear, leaving the two students blinking and turning to each other, unsure of what to do for a moment before Sonata stood up and ran toward the royals.

"Wait! I'm in. I'm in! Just tell me what to do!" She kept calling in the distance.

Now alone, the student Blueblood could only sag to the ground, sit with his thoughts, and repeat everything the Prince said in his head while hugging himself.

Watching him with pity, the Abyssinian Princess turned to her companion. "You think it will work?" Nefi whispered.

"I can only hope it did. Nothing lingers more in my mind than a good scare, so with any luck, my copy would finally get the message. The rest is up to him."
> School Of Fish (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As Blueblood continued to close the freshly made portals while Nefertiti dealt with the creatures to test her new gloves, Sonata remained on the sidelines, feeling out of place and unsure of what to do.

Fiddling with her fingers, she would occasionally glance at the two of them.

They look so in sync.

Doing her best to keep up with their speed, Sonata caught how the two kept smiling while glancing at each other, taking a few minutes to deal with the monsters before closing the portals, almost like they were playing some sort of game.

Seeing them in action, it is almost like they are having fun. Unconsciously she brought her palm to her neck and tried to remember when she and her friends were still sirens, wreaking havoc everywhere.

Is this what teamwork looks like? Fun? And, for that matter, did we have fun back then? Closing her eyes, she recalled when they first appeared in Equestria, causing havoc and destruction with their voices.

"Wow, so this is the open sky? It's so...big and blue but different from the sea." Sonata unfurled her fins and basked in the sunlight while floating around.

"Great Sonata, thanks for describing what the sky looks like." Aria snarked before turning to Adagio. "Can we get a move on before she starts describing what a rock is?"

For her part, Adagio looked around at the shores before she spotted a coastal town nearby.

"There. We would start with that town and make our way north."

"Aww, but do we have to? We just arrived. Can't we rest a little bit?" Sonata complained, "The breeze feels incredible in my fins. Girls, you have to try it. Just hunch over a little and then..."

"We will have time for that later. Right now, there is work to be done." Adagio stopped her and pointed at the town.

"Eww work? But you said we were going to have some fun"

Adagio smirked and put a fin on her shoulder. "Oh, that's the idea, Sonata. I have the greatest game for all of us to play."

Opening her eyes, she looks at the ceiling in contemplation.

It may have been funny at first, but after a while, it started to get repetitive and felt like a chore. I followed her orders because I didn't want to get yelled at or bullied by those two. Adagio kept pushing Aria and me to do what she wanted repeatedly. Come to think about it, I don't remember her ever asking our opinion or even saying sorry. Not even when it was her fault we ended up here and again when we lost our voices and our final chance to return to Equestria. Cleaning a tear, she looked at the two royals again while they wrapped things up.

My siren voice, he said that he could bring it back, but is it even possible?" letting go of her neck, she dug around in her pocket for a plastic bag full of what remained of their gems. Adagio told us that this was just garbage now and to throw it away, but was she right? I followed her because she is the leader, but why was that? Smarts? No, if anything, I say she was a bully, were I and Aria just her minions? Why? Why did we keep listening to her even after what she did to us?

"Sonata?" Nefi's voice startled her, and looking back while putting the gems away, she noticed the two royals staring at her in concern. "Are you with us?"

"Y-Yeah, I am, but what were you saying, just in case?"

The two blink before pointing to the empty mall. "We're done here and can focus on your magic now."

"Oh, that's great!" Her face suddenly lit up as she exchanged glances between the two. "Let's do this! Just a quick question, how do we do it?"

Blueblood briefly chuckled at her disposition while Nefi sat beside her on the bench. "Well, before we do anything. I was wondering if I could ask you something."

"Don't worry, sweetie, this isn't a friendship trap, nor are we giving you conditions." Nefertiti quickly added before Sonata could protest. "This is just something Bluey likes to do, that's all."

"Plus, it would help me figure out how to give you back your voice."

"Ah! Okay then, as long as this isn't some friendship trap."

"It isn't. I promise," Blueblood repeated calmly. "I just want to make sense of something. Twilight once told me about you. About how before you came here, you and your other two friends used to terrorize all of Equestria and gave a bad reputation to the siren species as a result. Did you really do all of those things? I ask because something didn't make sense every time I heard that story."

"Yeah, we did all of that. What did you not get about it?"

"Well, if that is the case, why did you do it, Sonata? There weren't any demands, end goals, treats, or warnings. For all intents and purposes, you were only destroying everything, just because. Why? Twilight told me how fiercely intelligent you are here and there, so why act...for lack of a better term, like wild animals?"

"Because Adagio told us that it would be fun," She answered without shame or thought, perplexing the royal.

"And was it?" Nefi questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"What do you mean?" Sonata looked at her, equally confused by that question.

"You just said that Adagio claimed that it would be fun. What did you think about it?" Blueblood clarified.

"I mean, it was kind of funny...at the beginning, but then it kind of became a chore and a boring one at that." She confessed with a roll of her eyes. "We simply did it because Adagio told us to continue. Or at least that is what I always thought, and Aria didn't seem interested in...anything else. She follows Adagio just because." She shrugged and closed her eyes. "If you ask me, she is a bit of a school fish. In that, she only follows and copies everything Adagio does."

The two royals exchanged worried glances at that claim.

"Ah, Sonata..." Before the Prince could say anything else, Sunset's phone came to life, startling everyone, and after checking it, Nefi was confused when the number was listed as unknown "Bluey, why don't you take this call while I deal with this?" Nefi suggested handing over the phone.

"You sure?"

"Relax, this is something my dad did millions of times before. I know how to deal with it."

"Deal with what?" Sonata looked between the two, not understanding what was happening, as Blueblood remained a bit unsure before ultimately agreeing and taking the phone.

"Okay, Nefi, I trust you."

He picked up the phone and walked away a fair distance so the ladies could have privacy.

"Hello?"

“BLUEY! You picked it up!" The cheerful voice of Pinkie almost made him drop the phone. "I was so worried, and so was Sierra and RarityandSkystarand..."

"P-Pinkie, Pinkie! Calm down. I can barely make sense of what you are saying." The Prince managed to say before she could continue with her rant. "I'm happy to hear from you too, but how are you doing this?"

"Oh, Rarity told me that Sierra told her how to do it. Wait, I will put you on the group call."

"No, wait, how are you...?"

"Hello? Blueblood? Is that you?" A relieved Rarity asked.

"Yay, we did it!" Skystar screams in excitement.

"Not bad girls, not bad at all," Sierra replied calmly. "Told you he was okay."

"Wait, girls, how are you talking to me?" He pulled the phone away and regarded the machine with a raised eyebrow. "How far is the coverage of this phone?" He put the phone back to his ear as Pinkie laughed.

"No, silly, I told you, Rarity did it."

"I boosted the signal more precisely," Rarity clarified. "Using blueprints and following Sierra's instructions, mind you, but it was mostly Skystar and me."

"You three manage to boost a signal to cover two dimensions?" Blueblood couldn't help but whistle, "Okay, that's just impressive."

"We can't exactly take all the credit," Skystar said after a quick giggle. "The breaches in the sky make reaching your current dimension that much easier, and a device near you is picking up the signal. Which is probably why you are receiving it there and not on your earpiece."

"Yeah, we are gonna need to talk about what exactly you are holding later, Blueblood," Sierra said. "But for now, we must focus on the situation at paw. How are things on your end? Where are you exactly?"

"Short version? We are in the world where Sunset lives. When things got worse in Appleloosa, Nefertiti and I had no choice but to make the jump and find out how bad things are getting here. The plan is still on track, don't worry. We just had to change the course of action. What about you? How are things back in Equestria?"

"Not too great, I'm afraid, darling. Whatever happened to you must have happened everywhere because all of a sudden, brutes start appearing everywhere and causing unrest." Rarity explained somberly.

"We managed to repel them here, thank Fenrir," Sierra continued. "And that moment, I took advantage of the calm to finish my invention to move the day and night cycles forward. It's almost done, by the way."

"Fluttershy's group seems to be okay too, from their position as they keep sending out the radio silence signal, but unfortunately, AJ..." Skystar started to list but paused when she reached the situation with her.

"Oh, AJ? She is here with me." Pinkie announced, shocking everyone.

"She is?" Almost everyone asks her immediately.

"Yep, did I forget to tell you how the dream bubbles here have been expanding and merging for a while now? Oops, silly me," She giggles briefly. "Yeah, the sand here has been acting weird with all the holes growing, expelling even more bubbles and fusing them into one giant one. So I quickly made a sand ballroom like the one in Canterlot to put a group there, then a sand apple farm, a sand rodeo, and when I found out the other bubbles came from Sunset's world, a sand school that turned into a dreamy, real one."

"Pinkie, walk me through that. You saw a bunch of sand bubbles appearing everywhere, so you just decided to make sand buildings to put everyone dreaming inside," Rarity asked, recovering from the party mare's explanation first.

"Eeyup"

"And once you did, everyone just appeared inside them, and the sand became real, like when we had to deal with Princess Luna's evil creation?"

"That is right!"

"Okay, just one final question, how did you know that by moving the sand, you could create solid structures?"

"Dah, because sand is at the beach, and the beach has games. Among those is making sand castles, but you don't necessarily have to make one, and castles are houses."

Everyone remained quiet at her explanation until Blueblood started to laugh. "By god, did I send the right mare for the job? Pinkie, you are a genius."

"Awww! Thanks. Oh, do you want to talk with AJ? She and the double Big Mac's are keeping everyone calm, but I'm sure they would like to speak."

"Not yet. Just tell her we are all fine and can talk for a moment. But before that..." Blueblood glanced at Sonata, who kept talking with Nefi "...think you could look for two people in particular, Pinkie?"

"Sure!"

"Excellent, call me back in twenty minutes. I need to set something up here."

"Darling, what are you plotting?" Rarity asked, intrigued by the Princes tone

"Fixing two issues at once with any luck." He smiled, thinking of a plan of action for Sonata. "I will explain the details later, but for now, this is what I want you to do, Pinkie..."

20 minutes later

"Okay, I get that we have communications again. Hurray for the fleabag," Nefi replied sarcastically with a roll of her eyes and wiggled finger. "And it's great that we are putting the plan back on track, but why are you letting Sonata talk with her tormentors again?" The Princess crosses her arms as they look at the siren in question, speaking with her teammates again, not too far from them. "I just helped her realize how Adagio was just using her."

"Exactly," Blueblood nodded confidently. "It's one thing having doubts. It's an entirely different thing to have solid evidence. Sonata is their only hope, and the poor mare has been grieving their loss since then. What will happen when Adagio responds to her concern with yells and demands that she set her free right now? Ignoring her opinion, her feelings, and at this point, even logic? Especially after your little chat about how Adagio keeps dragging them down."

"Oh! I see what you are doing now, Bluey." Nefi smirked as she looked at the surprised and then angry scowl on Sonata's face. "Your devious Prince, I love it."

"It's not a manipulative tactic if that is what you're thinking." He looked at Sonata with pity before looking back at Nefi. "I genuinely want to help that poor girl escape such a toxic relationship. And to do that, sometimes you have to play the same game. At least part of it relies on constructing a situation in which the tormentor can't lie their way out of it, and their victims finally see the type of person they were all along. It is painful, hard to watch, and sometimes explosive...but at the end of the day. It needs to happen."

"You know what? SCREW YOU! Rot in that desert for all I care!" Sonata yelled at the top of her lungs before ending the call and hugged herself in sadness and rage, holding back tears.

"And that's the explosion, time to do some healing."

Approaching carefully, the two royals approached Sonata, who continued hugging herself and sniffing while fighting to hold back tears.

"Sonata I..." Nefertiti started and was about to place her hand on Sonata's shoulder but retracted and looked at Blueblood before glancing at the siren again "...we are sorry."

"No, you are not" She turned to them with a glare and teary eyes. "You knew that would happen, did you?"

They both remained silent for a moment and looked down.

"Answer me!"

"Yes," Blueblood didn't dance around the subject and responded bluntly, taking a step forward. "Neither Aria nor Adagio was ever your friend Sonata. From the beginning, you were nothing but a minion, a fool, and manipulated so much that not even exile made you realize what that siren did to you. So if you want to be angry, be angry at me. This was my whole idea, but don't ask me to say sorry. I would not apologize for helping you see the truth."

She was about to cry, keeping her glare on him. "When did I ask you to save me?!" She started to hit his chest repeatedly, wailing as Blueblood remained firm. "I was happy with how things were! I was happy thinking that deep down inside, I had friends! I was happy because this world had tacos! At least I could continue pretending there wasn't anything wrong! You are an idiot! Bastard! You giant egomaniac! Why did you have to come and mess with my life? You...you...you..." She became increasingly tired as Blueblood let her have a moment to vent before extending his arms and pulling her into a hug.

"That is okay, Sonata, this is all okay. Just let it all out."

"Let me go! Let me go right now! You want to use me too! Just as another soldier, don't you? That is why you want to give me my voice back! So you can use it against your enemies!" She struggled to get out, but her emotions and energy betrayed her, and she barely made any effort.

"You can walk away," He whispered into her ear, which caught her off guard.

"What?"

"I'm not Adagio. I will not force you to do something if you don't want to. You can still walk away, find a hiding place, and wait for all this to end even after we give you your voice back. We would understand if you still want no part in this."

"We might know the mental game works, heck we might have played once or twice before, but there are lines we don't cross honey." Nefertiti added. "Forcing civilians into fighting is one of them. We might be liars, and taking our words with a grain of salt is okay. It is a good policy, and you should keep it, but know that we have principles too."

Sonata exchanged glances between the two royals before lowering her hands and resting her head on Blueblood's shoulders. "Are you telling the truth? I can run after you give me back my powers?"

"Yes. The world is in crisis, and we could use a siren to help us, but we will not force you if that is not what you want. It must be your decision."

Sniffing, she didn't reply and decided to return the hug, crying openly, "Why did she do that to me?"

"Some creatures are like that. Sonata" Nefi can only offer that as a reply patting her head. "There will always be those who see others as nothing more than puppets, fools, and tools. That is why you need to be careful with them."

She tightened the hug and started to glare at nothing. "I will show them. I would show them all."

"Sonata?" Blueblood took a quick glance at the siren, confused by her shift in mood

"I will do it. I will help you, Blueblood." She broke the hug and stared at them both. "I would stay with you, not only because you helped me see what a bitch Adagio is, not only because you asked instead of just using those mental tricks you mentioned, but so I will be able to show everyone in both worlds that Sonata Dusk is not some ditzy airhead that can be jerked around like a puppet on a string! And once the world is saved, I would make sure to find those ingrates and rub on their faces how I could save everyone without their help!" She mainly proclaimed to herself as she looked with steely determination.

"Glad to have you with us, and I love that energy right there, Sonata. Try to hold on to it. You are going to need it in order to get your powers back."

"I do?" She looked back at Blueblood with a raised eyebrow

"She does?" Nefi repeated, looking at the Prince equally confused.

"Oh yeah, Sonata, you have been a trio act all your life, so for this to work. You must take a deep breath, look deep down, and find your voice. Clear, loud, and strong." He rubs his hands in anticipation. "Look out, world, Sonata is about to debut her solo act!"

The ladies are still confused but started to get excited at the prospect. While hiding behind a pillar, a wary Blueblood looks on angrily at them.
> Bluebloods Strategy (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Is this really necessary?" Blueblood asked as he and Nefertiti took the sleeping bodies of Aria and Adagio and placed them in two chairs in front of a small stage. The group decided to go into the music store to help the siren feel more comfortable testing her voice.

While preparing everything, she asked if they could bring a desk and two chairs in front of the stage to place the remaining sirens, a place holder to put the phone, and a small plastic bag full of shattered red crystals, which, according to Sonata, used to be their source of magic.

"Absolutely. You said I should direct my energy toward finding my voice, right? Then I want those two ingrates to hear me while I pretend they are watching, so I'll show them." She explained with a slight glare at the sleeping sirens.

"Fair enough, nothing wrong with some gloating." Nefertiti shrugged before looking at a permanent marker nearby and picking it up. "Hey, wanna draw on their faces too? That would teach them a lesson for leaving someone behind when they need help."

"Just give it a rest, Nefi," Blueblood sighed and rolled his eyes. "We are better than that; sure, they must be taught a lesson. But I think having their jaws dropped would be punishment enough, right Sonata?" He turned to her, who remained quiet as she stared at the bodies. "...Right?"

"Fine! ...But we will keep the pen on the table. In case they test my patience again."

"Alright! I like the way you're thinking!" Nefertiti cheered and put the marker on the table.

The Prince could only shake his head, sigh in disappointment, and throw his arms into the air. "Sure, why not? Is it boring taking the moral high ground anyway. Hey, why stop there? Why not shave their eyebrows and draw on surprised looks so everyone thinks they are always happy or scared?" The Prince is surprised when he sees the sparkle in their eyes and the grins on their faces. "Oh, come on! Wouldn't that be taking things too far?"

"Nope," They both said simultaneously as their grins got wider.

Sighing again, he decided not to give them more ideas and just looked around the store. "I'm drowning in malevolence." With a final, defeated sigh, he stopped and looked around at different instruments. "Ok, before you do anything, why don't we go back to the subject at hand, finding Sonata's voice."

"Yeah, you keep saying that, but I still don't get it; what do you mean by "my voice as a solo act"?"

He shrugged and shook his head. "It's... hard to explain honestly, and the easiest way to describe it for me is by using the warrior's equivalent." He smiled and grabbed the hilts of both Llamrai and Hengeron. "Just like my swords and I, or Nefi and her gauntlets, a warrior must find that special weapon that simply fits them. The weapon flows with their style and serves as an extension of the warrior. The same applies to musicians and singers."

He stepped aside so Sonata could look around at all the different options in the store. "Clearly, we need to find something that bonds well with you and makes you feel comfortable in your own skin. So we will test them out and see which instrument works best for you."

"And that will help me recover my siren's voice?" She asked, intrigued, while looking around at the instruments on hand before turning to Blueblood. "Because I already told you, the source of my power is my voice, but it only works here while I have my gem." She pointed at the shattered stones on the table. "My singing is a must; trust me, I'm an expert in all musical styles too."

"Great, then we can cross wind instruments off the list...for now, maybe they are the clue" Blueblood looked around before snapping his fingers. "Ah, an oldy but a goodie" He picked up an acoustic guitar and handed it over. "Why not try this one first? See if it flows with your singing...you do know how to play with that, right?"

"Do I know how to play?" Sonata asked sarcastically, "Do I?" She repeated while actually considering the instrument in her hands, "I mean, I always wanted to try, but Adagio never let me. Hey, this could be fun!"

Sonata went up onto the stage and settled down behind the microphone, starting to get excited at the prospect.

"Ok, music test #1, remember that previous energy you felt and try to aim it at the gems. I will do the rest." Blueblood instructed, sitting in an empty chair next to Nefertiti as they remained behind the control panel off to the side, making sure the mic and stereos were on while he prepared Llamrai in case the guitar worked.

"And...we are on; knock yourself out, honey" Nefi gave Sonata a thumbs up, who responded with a nod, clearing her throat before starting.

Fifty tries and forty-five instruments later.

Having tried and subsequently given up on all instruments as none seemed to bond well with Sonata, the siren decided to try her hand at opera, finding her footing yet not quite reaching the peak required with any of them. "...and think of me..."

"That's ok, Sonata. You can stop now." Blueblood sighed and gave her a glass of water to soothe her sore throat.

"I don't know; I think we were getting close there, Blue," Nefi remarked while playing with one button on the control panel, with an exhausted sigh.

"I know, and that's the problem; we have tried everything, and we have the same result every time. We reach 'almost' but can't break past that barrier," He confessed, pacing back and forth, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"Don't go saying that to me. I'm just doing what you told me as best as I can...but yeah, it's nice, and all but none of them are talking to me." Sonata stepped off the stage, set the glass on the table, and then approached and stroked the strings of a harp. "Maybe if I sing louder?"

"No, that would only get us the same but louder." Blueblood stopped and sighed in frustration. "I don't get it; we tried every instrument here and tried happy, sorrowful, angry and upbeat songs; what else are we missing?"

"Stop! Please stop." The three looked at the entrance where Bratblood stood with a large tote bag, scowling at his counterpart. "You are embarrassing yourself at this point; you have the basics but know next to nothing about the world of music or how it works."

"Oh no, not you again. Blue, finish the job," Sonata demanded, pointing at Bratblood with a scowl while taking a step back.

"Wait! Before anyone gets stab happy, let me talk." He raised his hands in a placating gesture. "I'm not here to complain, I swear! You and your girlfriend gave me a lot to think about."

"My, what now?" Blueblood asked, tilting his head and raising an eyebrow.

"Let him talk!" Nefertiti stopped him from asking or saying anything more as Bratblood approached the group and marched up to his copy.

The Prince, in turn, crossed his arms and looked his doppelganger in the eye. The silence was deafening as the two regarded each other until Bratblood sighed and took a deep breath. "Listen, I thought about what you said; I had time to realize you were right, and I..." He struggled to find the right words before sighing in defeat, "...don't. Want. To be alone, there I said it!" He admitted with some frustration.

The news put a smile on the royals and caused a groan to escape from Sonata.

"So, do you mean you are ready to listen and stop with all the snarky comments, whining, ego-boosting, and complaints?" The Prince started to listen and uncrossed his arms.

"I will do what I can. I got the idea with the sword at my throat" He gulped and glanced at Nefertiti, who flashed him a toothy grin and wiggled her hand. "Just...don't expect me to fight either. I may have practiced kenjutsu, fencing, and other sword arts, but that doesn't automatically mean I can fight. Those were in a safe gym environment, and I mostly know how to use them as a sport."

"That is ok; you can help in other ways; as long as you help, we are happy." Blueblood agreed readily, now more relaxed and happy to see his little speech work.

"So you know about fencing and music. What kind of school did the princesses send you?" Nefi asked, confused and intrigued by his broad base of knowledge.

"Schools plural, I move around often, and naturally, I worked extra hard to excel in every subject, which gives me the means to solve your little issue here." He says, getting more confident and looking at the stage before taking a calculated look at the Prince. "And prince, did you mean it when you said I can be better?" He asked hopefully.

The Prince responded with an easy nod at once. "Of course, you can. Trust me; you would be surprised by what you can do when helping others."

That put the teenager at ease as he went to Sonata, who kept glaring at him.

"Oh no, no, no, no, NO! I refuse to even be in the same room as this rat. I had enough on my plate in dealing with those two." She pointed at the unconscious bodies. "What in the seven seas makes you believe I would even give you the time...the time...?" She then started to sniff a familiar smell wafting in the air. "What's in that top bag?"

Smiling with some embarrassment, the teenager Blueblood reached out and took a giant taco wrapped in a big napkin "An olive branch...or taco, in this case? Maybe this is my way of saying sorry and asking for an opportunity to start over. I made it myself looking for the best ingredients, three semesters in a cooking school" He smiled nervously, hoping the food would improve her mood.

"Oh mighty seas, could that be a...a taco truck? W-Well, it smells so good, and I..." Sonata started to drool as she picked the taco until she shook her head. "No, NO!" her glare intensified at Bratblood. "You think I'm so naïve as to forgive you just because you made me...a..." She has to swallow saliva before continuing, "...an obviously delicious taco? Do you think you can buy me that easily?

Bratblood didn't say anything and only unpacked a second, even more massive taco and offered it to the siren with a cautious smile.

The siren fell silent for a moment before her entire body trembled in anger... or perhaps hunger? "FUCK!" Snatching the taco, she took a massive bite and backed away. "ONE CHANCE, that's all you get, ONE!" She starts taking another bite before grunting in frustration. "Damn it, they're delicious!"

"Ok, fencing, music, and now cooking? No, seriously, how many schools did they send you?" Nefertiti reiterated in disbelief, with how many things the teenager knew while Bratblood and Sonata kept eating, muttering obscenities and groning in bliss at the food. The Prince finally remarked after watching these events unfold.

"I can work with this, now then. We need to set the scene right this time."

The Prince could not help but chuckle at the display the two teenagers were making with their back-and-forth conversation as they moved around the store for their next attempt while calming Nefi. "Different story, I suppose, Nefi; this Blueblood didn't exactly have to learn how to be a prince after all."

She looked up in thought before nodding. "Point taken. We might not have twin Bluebloods on the battlefield, but your plan still seems to have worked Blue." Nefi commented, impressed at the results.

"In part, this is certainly a big leap from where he started, but it will take time, and who knows? Maybe he will enter the field on his own accord." The Prince pondered with interest.

"Oh? And how do you know that?"

"He admitted that he has trained with swords before, meaning he knows how to wield them and has experience fighting. Even if it was used as a sport, they are still weapons; he lacks the bravery to use his skills to defend himself and the moral compass to how and when to use them. But if the situation calls for it, at the very least, he could defend himself. I suppose only time would tell what will happen."

"Hey, you two, don't just stand there; come here and help." Bratblood called to them as he put some trumpets in line next to Sonata.

Seeing he had a point, the royals complied and helped set the place up before the teenager explained what they were doing wrong while Sonata snacked on her treats with gusto.

"Ok, your plan had merit, and I agree that Sonata needs to tap into the same energy as before, but you were going about finding her voice the wrong way." He explained as they continued to work.

"How so?" The Prince asks with genuine interest.

"You keep tackling the issue with only one emotion instead of viewing it for what it is, which is a whole spectrum. Sadness for what her supposed friends did, anger for the same, desire to break free, eagerness to show off, and playful nature, among others. It is a whole package you need to condense in one song."

"How exactly are you intending to do that?" Nefertiti asked, suddenly unsure if there could be a way to convey all those emotions into one song.

"How did you know that? Wait, where are you spying on us?"

"More like listening in and finding my courage; forgive me if I was not eager to meet Mr. and Ms. Stabby Mac Stabbersons here so soon after our last...talk." He defended while regarding the royals.

"Harsh but fair," The Prince admitted. "Please continue; you know how to convey all those emotions in one song?"

"I do, but to do so, I would need your help setting the lights..." He said, moving Nefi to the control panel, "...You and I need to discuss the lyrics, style, and mood you would need for each verse" He picked a pen and notebook, pointing at Sonata before grabbing Sunset's phone and pressing it against the Prince's chest. "And you need to call Aria and Adagio and convince them to listen from start to finish."

"Ok, the rest I get, but why do we need those two to listen? Can't we play pretend with their bodies?" The Prince questioned, tilting his head.

"No! They need to hear it when it happens." Bratblood pressed on with anger

"But why?"

"Because my tone-deaf clone, the idea of this song is more than just giving this siren her voice. It's to immortalize her performance as a moment of triumph and freedom against those who doubted her!" He exaggerated, raising his hand into the air. "This song will mark the point where she will step OUT of the shadows tall and proud and show the world the hidden gem they all keep overlooking. To make everyone regret assuming that she was nothing else but 'the principal's nephew'"

"Yeah! I would show them how to be more than just a nephew!" Sonata got excited, too, and fist pumped in the air before registering what she had just said. "Hey, wait a minute."

"So close." The Prince shook his head in disappointment.

"I don't know, Bluey. He was doing well until the last part; I say he deserves at least half a point." Nefertiti shrugged. "And hey, minus that, he hit the nail on the head; this whole deal is to teach those jerks a lesson on humility as well and show them that Sonata is not their tool to use and play with; that is what where are you going, right junior?"

"...yes, that too, and back on topic, now you see why you need to make the call."

"O...k, but why me specifically?" The Prince asked again.

"Because Adagio scares me; Sonata would just argue, and your girlfriend..."

"Not my girlfriend," The Prince corrected before his local counterpart could continue.

"Right...your friend. Honestly, I am even more scared of what she might tell them."

"As you should, he is right, Bluey; you are the best option." Nefertiti replied and nodded at Blueblood Jr.'s logic, quickly followed by Sonata.

With a roll of his eyes, the Prince picked up the phone and walked away. "Fine, but only because you are trying to help someone else for a change, and I agree that they need to hear what they dismissed and lost."

"And tell them they were very mean to me, too~!" Sonata added as he left.

Blueblood Jr. blinked a couple of times. "Ah, Sonata, that is what he..." Nefertiti stopped him and shook her head

"Just let her have that junior; it's better that way."

Once outside the music store, the Prince looked through the recent calls and redialed Pinkie Pie, only to receive a nasty surprise on the other line.

"Well, well, look who just decided to crawl back. I knew you wouldn't last a minute without me," Adagio remarked in a sarcastic and prideful tune. "Now let me out!"

"Adagio, why do you have Pinkie Pie's earpiece?" The Prince replies in a professional monotone, not bothering with any pleasantries and deciding to ignore everything she just said.

"What! Who is this? Where is Sonata? Why do you have her phone?"

"Blueblood. We will get to that, and it's not her phone; it's Sunsets. Now my question remains, where is Pinkie?"

"Oh, it's you," Adagio sighed in disappointment and irritation. "Listen, I don't have time for your rants and whining; we both know how this is gonna go, but knowing how you have a pea for a brain, let me spell this out for you, I have that pony, you can't do anything to stop us, and if you want her to stay safe, you better keep us happy, now go find Sonata before I get mad you narcissistic, pompous, mama..."

With a long-suffering sigh, Blueblood pulled the phone away from his ear and approached a nearby booth selling airhorns while Adagio continued her insulting tirade until he rested the bell of one on the mouthpiece and pressed the trigger, startling and silencing the mean siren.

After thirty seconds of concussive sound, Blueblood put the phone back on his ear and spoke again in the same neutral tone before Adagio could say anything else, "Let's try this again; I don't want to hear any more of your crap, and now I'm furious, so, let make me this crystal clear. I only wanted to hear answers, to speak with Pinkie and your cooperation, but since you and Aria decided to distract me with the monumentally stupid threat of harming my friends. Here is my counteroffer; we both know you are bluffing about harming the mare but on the off chance you decide to do something...stupid. Well, this mall has a tattoo parlor, and you have no means to control or protect your body. And we can always escalate from there. Do you need me to connect those dots for you, sweetie?" He ended with a sarcastic question.

For a few seconds, there is only silence "...you wouldn't."

"Really, Adagio? Are you brave enough to take that bet? Or should I say, take the bet for you...and for Aria?" He asked rhetorically; entering the business in question, he rummaged around for a moment before turning on a pneumatic tattoo machine, allowing the air compressor to fill ominously before finally bringing the needle close to the transmitter so they could hear it as he adjusted the speed of the machine. Aria lasted for all of ten seconds before she finally cracked.

"Ok, ok! You win! You win!" Aria squeaked in terror, much to the displeasure of her companion

"Hey!"

"Just put that thing away."

"Thank you, Aria." Blueblood turns the machine off and exits the establishment. "I knew we could have a civilized conversation."

"Whatever, what do you want?"

"For starters, I would like to speak with Pinkie Pie." He replied in the same tone in which Aria was speaking to him. "...Now"

"We don't know where she is. We snuck out when she wasn't looking and took this thing with us."

"Then. Go. look for her." He ordered without skipping a beat.

"Hey! We're not your servants..."

"...What do you prefer on your face? A cute little bunny? A flower? Or do I keep it simple and just write 'Sunset's Bitch' on your foreheads?" He reminded the pair, not tolerating any sass.

"NO! Wait, we are looking, we are looking!" She replied in a complete panic as the two quickly ran, searching for the party planner.

With a slightly dark chuckle, the Prince sat on a bench, waiting for their reply while listening to a piano play nearby and watching his copy and Sonata discuss the lyrics of a song that he seemed to want to accompany with a piano. Nefertiti kept a close eye on the two as that happened.

I knew there could be good in you, boy. Now show us what you can do. The Prince smiled confidently as everything seemed to fall into place.
> Angelic Solo (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After closing all the remaining breaches, all of the mane six's counterparts gathered at the school lab for the final stages of their plan. "Everybody ready?" After inputting the coordinates in the computer, Sunset asked the group to pinpoint the island connected to Equestria.

"All set and ready, sugar cube," AJ replied while the others all nodded, minus Twilight, who was, at the moment, editing a text before sending it.

"Ok, now I'm ready," Twilight confirmed with a smile, looking at the rest.

"What were you doing, darling?" Rarity queried with a raised eyebrow.

"Just sending a text to Blueblood and Nefertiti telling them we were going ahead with our plan and, when they are ready, to bring any survivors here. Since it is the safest place. I tried calling, but it keeps sending me to voicemail."

"Oh my, I hope they're ok," Fluttershy voiced her concern while Pinkie dismissed it.

"Nah, they are probably fine and just have their hands full, keeping everyone calm." She said with a big grin. "Oh, I will throw the biggest party once this all ends."

"Which shouldn't take us too long anyway." Dash boasted confidently. "We just go there, do our thing, save the world, and come back easy peasy."

"I wouldn't be so confident if I were you, Rainbow Dash," Sunset warned with a concerned tune. "As I said, we are facing someone as powerful as Discord this time. This could easily be our most powerful foe yet, so everyone, keep your guard up at all times."

"That means you, sugar cube," AJ couldn't help but joke while looking at Dash.

"Yeah, yeah, I got...hey!"
AJ chuckled a little as Sunset activated the portal, and all of them walked in, armed with their pendants and ready for the fight of their lives. They were greeted by a sandstorm on the other side. The strong winds and sound of the portal covered any lesser sounds until the portal close, revealing the beeping sound of an alert ringing on one of the computers, alerting any who would notice to a massive discharge of magic happening periodically in the mall before exploding outward in waves that erased any lingering portals all over the city.

Sometime earlier


"No, Twilight, listen, I...yes, I know what they did...no. I didn't lose my mind...Twily, if I can...yes, I know what I'm doing...Twilight just...think of it as a friendship mission!...No! I'm not mocking you" Blueblood kept pacing back and forth with the phone on his ear, trying to calm a nearly hysterical Twilight on the other end, who started to have a very vocal panic attack after finding out what her cousin was planning. Sighing in defeat, the Prince pinched the bridge of his nose. "Twilight...please hand the earpiece to Pinkie."

She does that, and Blueblood can hear Rainbow Dash consoling the princess in distress. "Ok, Twilight, take five; just breathe in the paper bag."

"Hi again, Bluey! Thanks for finding the sirens for me. I was afraid they would start making prank calls without me." The party planner commented cheerfully, bringing a smile to the Prince's face as he chuckled.

"I would never let them do that, and I'm glad to hear you found Twilight and Rainbow Dash too. It really takes a weight off my shoulders, knowing almost all of you are reunited again."

"Me too! And I love the idea of making new friends! I can't wait to hear Sonny sing."

"Likewise, and I hope our guests of honor won't skip it." He finishes with a severe tone that the sirens can hear as Pinkie puts the device on speaker.

"Hearing how that traitor tries and fails singing without me? Don't worry; I will pay close attention." Adagio snidely commented.

"You know this is just a waste of time, right?. We are a package deal moron; you want our power? You need all of us," Aria added in frustration.

"And once you have proof of that, you better be ready to have something to offer us in exchange." Adagio finished with a vicious smile.

"We'll see," Blueblood countered with his own confidence as Pinkie put the device back to normal and took a few steps away.

"It's not like I don't trust you or anything, Bluey, but...are you sure of this plan? Twilight has a point; these three used to be particularly mean before. Are you sure Sonny would be ok once she has her singing voice again?"

"I'm sure of that, Pinkie; as a defender and proponent of second chances, I will vouch for her."

"Oh ok, then that is all I need to hear." the pink mare nodded. "If you trust her, then so do I."

"Thanks, Pinkie, it means a lot to me. For now, please put back the speaker."

"Oki Doki" She did so and returned to the group so Blueblood could make his announcement.

"Ok, everyone listening? You better take your seats. The show is about to begin." He instructed before returning to the music store where his counterpart was testing out a piano while Sonata was doing throat exercises with a glass of water in the middle of the stage.

"It's done; Adagio and Aria are listening." He announced before setting the phone down in the middle of the table.

"Let's get this over with. The sooner we finish this charade, the sooner we can discuss deals." Adagio quipped in irritation as she crossed her arms. In the dream realm, Pinkie had gathered everyone in the school gym, equipped the place with chairs, and set a stage with a fake Sonata in the middle so she could have enough acoustics.

"Don't expect us to go easy on you either, traitor. Do you want to whine about going solo? Let's see you try to hack it." Aria added her own two cents.
"Ok, you two, behave" The Prince was about to chastise them until his counterpart intervened.

"No! This is better; let them talk. We can use their comments as fuel." He reminded him and pointed at a Sonata who was glaring at her ex-companions, making the prince nod and get into position.

"Your phone better be broken because I swear I heard Bluepain starting to sound in stereo," Aria mentioned in fear and irritation.

Nefertiti had to suppress a chuckle and held a quick internal debate about whether she should tell them what was happening, deciding against it since this was Sonata's moment to shine.

"Ok, one last thing, after the first verse, I need your help to bring life to these instruments in this order using that fancy sword of yours," The student instructed, giving a list to Blueblood, who nodded and took the list while reading through it.

"I can do it, but how do we make them play the right tune?"

"From what I have seen and heard, chances are they will do it on their own; you just bring the magic; we will bring everything else. Ok, everyone in position."

"Hello!? Is anyone going to answer me?" Aria exclaimed, irritated from being ignored, which only continued as everyone got into position, and the student Blueblood indicated for Sonata to take a deep breath before queuing Sonata to start as he began keying out the piano accompaniment.

Slightly nervous, Sonata almost lost her mark and checked her lines before starting to sing.






~Long, Long time ago, I had my own tiny home~
~Was beautiful, lovable heaven~


The sirens could only scoff and roll their eyes with their arms crossed. "Pathetic," Adagio muttered in disinterest, catching Sonata's attention as she glared at her body.



~But they took me so far away~
~And stranded me in this strange new place,~
~But honey, now the turn is mine...~



Right on cue, the Prince unsheathed Llamrai pointed, and cast magic at the different instruments, which, just like his copy assured, played the correct tune to accompany Sonata and even summoned transparent copies behind her to act as background singers. All following the teen Blueblood's lead as he let loose on the piano. Sonata started to relax and smile, snapping her fingers with the tune and moving her hips accordingly, joining the audience in their gradual excitement.



~Devil made from hatred, sent from beloved~
~Look like magic's want to play, ok let's have some fun~
~ We've got lots to do, little errant gems; come to me on cloud nine.~
~To be the perfect Siren, a compromise must be signed ~



Both swords and gem fragments started to vibrate and emanate a gold and red aura, respectively, as Sonata looked back and glared at her ex companions



~You...~
~Told me what to do and what to say; I couldn't escape.~
~You...~
~Got to choose the ending of our fate. You put me astray~



Sonata closed her eyes, getting lost in the song as the gems jumped out of the bag and started to circle and fly around her as the music increased in force, as well as the magic waves energy emanating started to slip into the dream realm and tripped an alert in the radar on Twilight's computer.



~But Not Anymore!~
~ I'm In Control!~
~I have the stage; you can't turn the page~
~Now~
~All Eyes Are On Me~
~All Eyes On Me~



The dazzlers were left dumbfounded, and their jaws dropped as magic started to discharge and seemed only to be increasing as everyone began to sway with the song while the instruments took over momentarily. Sonata started to enjoy herself more and more, to the point of even doing a little dance as she lilted along with the music, her eyes still closed.

"This is it! This is her voice!" The Prince whispered to Nefertiti excitedly as things started falling into place.

"And this is just the intro; wait until you see this." Nefi turned off all the lights save for one spotlight on Sonata as she continues



~So many innocents, so many mistakes~
~But I'll atone for them and return to my perfect shape!~



The spectral backup singers helped Sonata with some parts of the song though she didn't seem to mind, entranced by the music and only focusing on her friends and ex-friends.



~First the worst, maybe third not as bad~
~So close, so I cannot wait~
~The dazzlers can't take me now, cause I got myself, new friends, ~





~You...~
~Say I wasn't good enough by myself; you dismiss my concerns!~




At that moment, the gems stopped spinning and remained static in mid-air, emanating red light from them



~You...~
~Took away my future and my shape, but now I will change!~




~Focus on me!~



With a burst of power, a wave washed over all of them, and the shards reassembled themselves into their original forms



~ I'll be all that they see.~
~ I'll make them sway, no, can't run away!~
~Now All Eyes On Me~



With a final burst of magic, the gems changed colors from a harsh, intense red to beautiful light purple. Llamrai started to vibrate, and when the Prince held it high, a gold aura sprung forth and enveloped the gems, increasing their power. Neither his copy nor Sonata realized it yet, as they were enjoying the music and exposing their hearts through it. Still, the force kept growing, encapsulating the entire mall and forcing all of Twilight's equipment into overdrive as both the sand monsters and other survivors trying to hide paid attention to all the commotion.



~Oh no, no-o-o babe!~
~he-e-ey...~



Suddenly everyone was transported underneath an ocean and stood on top of Sonata's head as she reverted to her siren form. In contrast, her other two former companions stood before them all. The royals quickly realized it was an illusion since they weren't drowning, and the teenager Blueblood was unaware with his eyes closed, too engrossed in playing the piano. The Siren put her fins together as she finally opened her eyes and stared at the gems and Adagio. Her singing took on a more melancholy tone.



~You...~
~ don't know what it's like to drown away in a puddle of shame.~
~And you...yes, you~



She glared at both of them and pointed at them with her fins



~Made me INSANE...~



She then took charge and swam upwards to the surface before breaching the surface. The gems gave chase and attached themselves to both her wrists and on top of her head as she transformed into a fairytale siren with a humanoid form, albeit blue and scaly skin, gills on the sides of her abdomen, razor-sharp teeth, long fin-like ears, pink fins acting as a tutu, and her mane turning a darker green that almost resembled the depths of the ocean.
The illusion ended, and Sonata was now adorned with a golden tiara and matching gauntlets with a ocean fined theme on them, and the gems shined proud and strong, as well as her finy ears and fishtail



~But not anymore!~
~ I'm In Control!~
~I have the stage; you can't turn the page~
~Now I take the first step~



"Encore, hit the beat, Blue!" She orders playfully as the teenage pianist only nods with a grin and does just that.



~Focus on me! (x2)~
~ I'll be all that they see.~
~ I'll make them sway, no, can't run away!~
~Now All Eyes On Me (x3)~



Hitting the final lyric, one last magical blast was discharged, and a massive wave destroyed all the sand monsters in the city and fried the circuits of the Twilight machine.

Once everything was over, the group could only clap and cheer for the newly remade Siren as Sonata took a proper bow and her body returned to normal, but the jewelry remained; the enchanted instruments lost their magic and settled to the floor while the copies of Sonata vanished.

"You did it, Sonata! You did it! You found your voice!" The Prince announced in excitement, "Look out, world! The sea angel lives!"

"I know! Did you see me? I was like, woosh! And then I could feel the music flowing all over my body and the gems, the GEMS, look at these things!" Sonata jumped in place before raising her arms to show them off. "It's like they're brand new! I feel...argh! I have no words; I feel overcharged now. I...I was a siren for a moment!"

"Heh... was there any doubt?" Teenager Blueblood spoke up with an arrogant tone before eyeing the royals. "With my glorious assistance, this would be the end result."

The mood was about to turn sour until he continued with a sigh and offered a genuine smile to Sonata. "The greatest of singers deserve the greatest of assistance, after all." He complimented her warmly and started to clap slowly. "Bravo, Miss Dusk, Bra..vo. Watching you perform makes me want to hear more of you on a soundstage."

The royals could only blink in astonishment as Sonata slowly grinned at him before rushing and pulling him into a bear hug, taking him off guard.

"And you! You helped me find it! You are more than just a great taco maker; thank you so much, Blueblood. Thank you, thank you!"

"O-ok, ok, I get it now. Stop with the hugging!" He complained, but Sonata didn't let go earning a chuckle from the royals

"Well, I'll be. Junior learned!" Nefi observed with pride, crossing her arms as they watched Blueblood put his hand on Sonata's face trying to wriggle free from the embrace, but she still didn't let him escape.

"Well, I wouldn't go that far just yet." The Prince replied with a small smile of his own.

"What do you mean?" Nefi turned to him with a raised eyebrow.

"The road of recovery and redemption is not easy; it takes time, patience, and trial and error. Yeah, he did the right thing, but it was also for his own benefit rather than out of a desire to help." He sighed with some pity. "He still thinks he has to prove himself to his aunts."

"Well, of course, he would still think like that. He is still learning the ropes for Bastet's sake; go easy on him and let him have the win. Credit where credit's due, right?"

"I know, I know, I should just be happy. I'm just worried for him; sure, he just made a friend, but everyone else might not so easily forgive him. Like me, there is a long road ahead for this poor Blueblood." The Prince closed his eyes and looked down in sorrow. "I wish there was more I could do for him."

Feeling a hand on his shoulder, he turned to see Nefi smiling at him while resting her hand on his shoulder. "Every cub has to leave the pack eventually, dear. I say you did more than enough; the rest is up to him, and from what I'm seeing, he just took one impressive first step. From here on out, it is all a matter of hope and faith that those two don't mingle with the wrong crowd again."

The Prince smiled and raised his head in time for them to hear the voice of Adagio once again. "Hello? Hello?! Can anyone talk to me already!?"

"Speaking of the wrong crowd," Blueblood strode forward and picked up the phone, taking advantage of the fact that Sonata and her Blueblood were distracted and turning off the speaker mode and camera. "Hi, Adagio. Did you and Aria enjoy the show?" He asked smugly and tilted the phone so Nefi could hear too.

"Ok, ok, you made your point, junior. Sonata can sing; why don't we skip the pretenses and talk business?" Aria spoke up in irritation.

"Business? Whatever do you mean, dear?" Nefi asked teasingly.

"Oh please, don't play coy with us. I know exactly what you are doing." Adagio growled out, anger evident in her tone. "And as much as I hate to admit it, you won. You took our most incompetent member and gave her a boost of power that defies all logic, so let's be rational here. Imagine what you can do with me if you could do all that with her."

"You mean us," Aria added in irritation.

"Yeah, whatever... us. You get the point, though. Three sirens are better than one, right Blueblood? So why don't we work on a deal? We can come up with an arrangement where everyone benefits.

Nefi covered the receiver and looked at Blueblood, aghast. "They can't be serious right now."

He only responded with a shrug. "You have to grant them this; they are no strangers to seizing an opportunity when they see one." He then smirked at her. "Do you want to mess with them?"

"I'm listening," Nefi matched his smirk in anticipation.

"Ok, watch this."

She removed her hand from the receiver to continue the talk with the remaining broken sirens. "Ok, Adagio, I'll humor you. Let's say we are interested. What do you have to offer? Or better yet, how would you even come back?"

"A siren's voice can do more than just hypnotize honey. Give us the proper boost, and I'm sure we could wake ourselves up, and once free, we could discuss possibilities. Just think about it, by joining forces, we would be unstoppable."

"Intriguing, yeah. Tell you what put Pinkie back on quickly, and I will get back at you."
The Siren complied, and Blueblood immediately asked the pink mare some things that caused Nefi to struggle not to laugh right then. Once done, Pinkie returned the device to Adagio.

"Ok, Adagio, you convinced me I will give you a boost of energy, but only if you do exactly what I tell you to do. Understood"

"Crystal"

"Good; first, head up on stage with Pinkie; I will tell you the instructions step by step.

"This better not take all day," Aria sighed.

"Oh, don't worry, it would only take a second," Blueblood said confidently as he and Nefi held their laughter before proceeding. "First, make a circle on the ground, medium size, with enough room for you and Aria to move around a little."

The sirens looked at one another, confused, but complied. Quickly moving chairs out of the way and using a stick to make a circle in the sand. While everyone else present gave them space, knowing what would happen.

"Done," Aria called out

"Good, now stand on the circle's edge facing one another."

"Aha," Adagio replied

"Put your right foot inside the circle."

"Done"

"Now, the left one."

"O...k?" They both entered the circle

"Now, the right one out again."

"What kind of ritual is this?" Aria questioned as they kept doing what they were instructed.

"A pony one, I bet; just shut up and do as he says," Adagio chastised.

"Ok, ready?"

"Ready"

"Do as I say; you put your right foot in."

"Aja"

"You put your right foot out."

"yep"

"you put your right foot in..."

They rolled their eyes and repeated the process. "Done," Adagio said in irritation.

"And now you shake it all around."

"Ok, we are shaking it, and hey, wait a minute!" Aria finally realized what they were doing, and the two blushed as everyone present, including the royals, laughed out loud

"Oh dear god, oh by the stars...I can't believe you feel for it!"

"I think I'm gonna pee!" Nefi yelled with tears in her eyes as she joined the laughter.

"Pinkie!... Please tell me...tell me you recorded it!" Blueblood asked in between laughs

"It's all on tape!" Pinkie managed to call out before laughing out loud, holding a camera in her right hoof. The dazzlers were practically red with fury and embarrassment.

Once he managed to calm down the prince continued. "Now you have a sample of what your victims felt. Sonata got my attention because she was only following along, but you on the other hand, there is plenty of soul searching before I even consider helping you. Think of this as your first lesson.” 

And with that he ended the call before they could reply so the royals could return with their friends.
> Drowsy Encounters. (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Marching through the sandstorm, the mane six took only a few steps before losing their balance and almost falling when after five steps, they fell into a clear and sunny day at the entrance of the Golden Mirage, behind them the sand storm still raged, but before them, everything was peaceful.

"What in tarnation?"

"This must be the eye of the storm, the sand acting as a barrier to repel intruders while everything remains calm inside. My teleporter must have set us right on the edge of the storm, leaving just one thin layer of sand and wind to walk through," Twilight explained as she checked the area using a small pocket console she had brought.

"Awesome! Then this will literally be a walk in the park!" Rainbow proclaimed confidently. "Let's knock on that door, blast the bad guy, and go home. Easy peasy."

"Didn't you hear a single thing Sunset said? Dream is the strongest foe we have ever faced." AJ scolded her. "I don't think things will be that easy."

"Well...Blueblood did mention that he is also the laziest, but yeah, we shouldn't lower our guard," Sunset reminded them.

"Oh please, you guys are blowing things out of proportion; you'll see; I'll fix this before anyone can finish saying, Harmony. Now let's go!"

"Not yet; first, allow me to calibrate the coordinates to keep the portal stable, and that way..." A series of sparks interrupted Twilight as the device vibrated violently before it broke, causing Twilight to yelp and let go as it continued discharging and left a steaming trail of smoke. The portal closed immediately after "...we can keep it open even after fixing the fissures." She finished in disbelief at what had just occurred in front of her.

"Are we stranded again?" Fluttershy asked, starting to panic.

"Ok, nobody panic!" Sunset tried to salvage the situation as best as she could. "We all knew that we were stepping in here half blind; of course, things would not go as expected, but come on? When did that ever stop us?"

"Yeah, like when we faced that storm, the sirens, or that camp counselor!" Pinkie reminded everyone to lift their spirits. "We didn't have a then plan either, and that didn't stop us."

"Makes me wonder why it keeps happening to us," Fluttershy inquired with a sigh.

"Hey, Fluttershy's right, this is not even the first time we've been here, and we know how to escape; we can just go the other route and circle back home; easy!" Dash reminded the group as she pointed at the spa.

"I'm not exactly thrilled with the idea of swimming through some quicksand again, but I suppose it's better than being stranded." Rarity remarked.

"Plus, the other planet is counting on us." AJ reminded the group. "Come on, everyone, let's save both worlds!"

"Yeah!" They all cheered and started to move, minus Twilight, who kept looking where the portal was until Sunset went to her.

"Are you ok, Twilight?"

"Y-Yeah, I'm ok, it just... I planned for every eventuality and built in all sorts of security measures. I don't get it; what did I miss?"

"We can think about that some other time; for now, we have a mission to complete." Sunset pointed at the building, and with a nod, Twilight finally looked away and followed the group inside.

"Remember everyone. Be ready for anything!" Sunset gave them one last pep talk before they all marched in,

bursting through the door and entering the reception area. The group immediately raised their guards and fists in various ways, ready for an intense and prolonged battle. Only to find the place early peaceful and normal with clients and staff moving around the area like any other regular spa center, except for the fact that all of them are not only quadruped ponies but there was the same pegasus  mare cloned and disperse everywere doing all the jobs, with the same upbeat and cheerful smile.

"Hello, welcome to the Golden Mirage. Do you have a reservation?" A mare at the reception desk waved to the group, ignoring the entrance they made and making the whole situation all the more awkward for them as they slowly glanced at each other and subsequently blushed in embarrassment.

"Ah...no?" Twilight finally answered and recovered her composure as she and the rest of her friends relaxed a little and approached the desk

"Oh, that's ok, you are in luck. Today is a slow day. We can squish you in, no problem!" The receptionist said with a dismissive wave of her wing before retrieving a thick book from under the desk. "Just tell me what treatment you wish to have. Manicure, pedicure, hoof care, we have a promotion of two for one with a seaweed massage treatment..."

That last part caught Rarity's attention. Who stepped forward until Rainbow grabbed her left shoulder and pulled her back.

"Ok, stop it! We came here to save the world, not to get pampered," Rainbow said, slamming her fist on the receptionist's desk. "So stop with the weird spa receptionist act already."

The receptionist, for her part, could only blink in confusion at her statement, making the situation awkward again. "Ma'am...this IS a legitimate spa" She stepped aside and showed them the legal documentation framed on the wall. "We are only doing our job helping heal and relax every creature in Equestria."

"And I said stop it!" Dash insisted until Sunset intervened and gently pushed her away, followed quickly by Pinkie Pie

"Let's try another approach, Dash," Sunset suggested as Pinkie approached the receptionist.

"Thank you so much for telling us the options. They sound incredible, and we might consider them some other time, but we will have to decline for now."

"As regrettable as that may be." Rarity mumbled to herself as she crossed her arms and pouted

"Right now we have some business to attend to with your boss, so can you point us to where she is?" Pinkie casually asked with a calm smile.

"And no, we don't have an appointment either, but it is kind of urgent, so could you please let us in?" Sunset added getting the idea and decided to give it a try.

"...Uh, sugar cube, I'm not sure they would just let us walk right up to their..."

"Sure! No problem!" The receptionist replied, returning to her cheerful grin, much to the surprise of Applejack.

"Wait?! Just like that?" She asked in disbelief

"Yeah, the boss is not doing much at the moment, and she always loves to promote the Golden Mirage." The pegasus explained before pointing to the right with her wing and frontal hoof. "She is in the feather room, two doors to the right, one turn to the left, and just keep straight forward until you see a double door set that looks like two giant feathers. If you see a mud pool, you pass it."

All the girls keep blinking in surprise as the pegasus keeps smiling. "Is there anything else I can do for you?"

"Ah...no thank you and uh...have a good day" Twilight thanked her help, and they just started walking to the right without saying anything else as they saw the ponies continue to do their jobs.

"Is anyone else worried about how easy this mission is becoming?" Applejack spoke her concerns as she kept an eye on their surroundings.

Fluttershy could only nod in agreement.

"Yeah, it's like they are taking all the fun out of it," Dash complained with a grunt.

"Fun? Darling, you are not honestly not considering this as a game, are you?" Rarity scolded Dash, who rolled her eyes.

"Of course not! But you know what I mean? Sure, we have dealt with plenty of things before, but with how things are going right now? It's weird that we are not facing any resistance."

"I don't know, after facing the sandmen? The zombie apocalypse atmosphere for the past days, and well...this," Pinkie reminded the group how clients and workers all around them were ponies. "I say we pretty much covered enough obstacles already."

"And it is a bit refreshing not having to fight some big bad villain for once." Fluttershy smiled a bit at that reason as the rest, minus Dash, nodded in agreement.

"But it's not the same, and those fights usually make things all the more awesome." Dash complained with a frustrated sigh.

"You might still have your wish, Dash," Twilight mentioned as they all stopped in front of the feather room. "Lazy or not, this guy is powerful enough to turn both our worlds to chaos by lying on the ground. And if he's asleep, something tells me he is not going to simply stand up and return to Equestria if we ask nicely."

"Twilight is right, girls, and if the stories from Princess Twilight indicate how things go, we need to be on alert and ready to fire the elements as fast as possible." Sunset reminded the group as they got pumped once more and braced themselves as Sunset grabbed the handle and opened the doors.

Once more, the girls were left speechless as they expected to find some big room full of massage tables, ponies being treated by feathers, or at the very least, a spacious room full of sand.

Instead, they faced what looked like the entrance to a white sand desert without its trademark heat. The floor was swallowed up in a thick layer of sand, making various hills where various ponies were currently asleep atop patches of grasses and using feathers as blankets and pillows. The sky reflected the outside world with a relaxing clear day, and at the center of it, all lay Dream himself. He lay curled up like a dog with his wings spread out and a giant pillow underneath his head.

Now more than alert, the group took a few tentative steps forward before stopping and getting on guard once they noticed the pillow move slightly, revealing it to be a vast, puffed-up pegasus who stirred in her sleep and started to wake up, the same one that had attended them as the receptionist. Each of her movements released a stream of sand all over her body.

"Ah! Visitors!" The pegasus greeted them, and they took a step back when her body took a semi-transparent form as she stood up, copying and dividing her body until a sandy, thinner version of herself with light blue, glowing eyes whos rose and walked toward them, maintaining her imposing stature, the original soon returned to resting on the floor and closed her eyes.

"Please come closer and be welcome in the Golden Mirage, my name is Crossfire Tempo, and I'm the owner of this fine establishment. "She calmly greeted them with a short bow. Now more than ever, the group was confused as they exchanged glances between the giant sand pony and her body, drowsily staring at them while lying on the floor underneath the bird's head.

Tempo noticed them staring and raised an eyebrow, and tilted her head. "Is there something on your mind?" She asks, perplexed at their reaction.

"Is there something...?! You actually don't see the issue here?!" Dash finally snapped and spoke her mind pointing at her sleeping copy. "You just duplicated yourself out of sand! And are using your own body as a living pillow! Who...what are you?"

Smiling, Tempo only nodded and looked back at her body. "Ah yes, the dissociation of an out-of-body experience can be quite surprising at first. Especially when viewing it from an outside perspective."

With a sigh, she looked back at the group. "But don't worry, these kinds of things are normal in this room where the line between subconscious and reality is null and void." Slowly extending her wings, the roof and wall burned away as if they were made of paper to reveal giant blue chunks of crystal floating everywhere in an eternal night sky .and most disturbing of all, both ponies and humans could be seen relieving a pleasant scene in loops as thin rings of the sand circled around the crystals. Where they scattered and floated around in the middle of the sky. "Welcome to the Orpheus Core. The epicenter of slumber and the eternal realm of pleasant dreams."

She announce in pride "Beautiful, isn't it?. And soon, the entire world would look the same."

That caught all the girls' attention, and they prepared their elements at the statement, startling the pegasus with their reaction. "We are not going to let you do it!" Twilight exclaimed in anger.

"What is the matter? Wow! Hey, that almost hit me," Tempo complained when the girls tried to use the elements, yet instead of a big explosion, a rainbow-colored beam ray flew out. All of them were so angry with Tempo's plans that they decided to fire again and again until they hit her face, turning her body into a mass of feathers and white smoke that exploded everywhere.

The girls sighed in relief until they heard the voice of Tempo speaking again, "What's the big idea? Why are you attacking me like I'm some kind of monster?" She complained, not hiding the hurt in her voice.

"Well, you kind of want to trap everyone in their own dreams?" Fluttershy answered, feeling sorry for her.

"Trap? Oh no, no dear, you got everything backward; I'm not trapping any soul; I'm rescuing them." Tempo kept talking as the girls put their backs together, trying to locate Tempo. "A world free of pain, of misery, or sorrow. How is that evil?"

"You forgot free will," Rarity tells her with anger.

"Who said it is not included in the package deal?" Tempo countered as the fog faded, revealing a world of sand starting to form. "Dream has shown me so much; he is very kind. He even let me use his magic in exchange for turning my body into his pillow. And I feel at peace and well-rested for the first time in a long time. Enough for me to realize how many others suffer as I did." She confessed with melancholy, scooping a handful of sand from the ground after scratching the thin layer of grass. "Memories are locked in dreams, and each time someone touches the sand in the wake world, it gets preserved, ready to be used and let me know everything I need to know to whoever I wish to speak to."

The girls exchanged glances, unsure of what to do next. "You read everyone's minds? That sounds utterly dreadful, darling! How did you manage to avoid the headache?" Rarity finally decided to ask.

Tempo laughed and tossed the sand behind her. "Oh, it's not like I get everything all at once! Think of it as...what was your word in your world? Oh yes! A hard drive. I didn't even attempt to use it until I got a better hold on my new powers, and well, when I glanced at the pain everyone goes through, it broke my heart. That's why I plan to make a world of dreams, a land where no nightmare can ever reach. Only serenity and calm exist. "

"So what? You want to play the hero now?" Dash derisively asked with a raised eyebrow.

"It's a nice gesture, and all partner, but you are going about this thing the wrong way." AJ tries to reason with Tempo.

"Yeah, even I know that a party eventually needs to end, or everyone becomes tired and sick, or even worse, boring." Pinkie explained, shivering at the last word.

"And what makes me different from what you are doing now?" Copies of everyone emerged to stand in front of all seven girls, all younger and wearing different outfits; Sunset and Twilight felt a knot in their throats as the clothes worn by the clones brought old, painful memories. "The effects of the sand happen even with particles floating in the air. The second you stepped out of the portal, you gave me everything I needed to know, and from what I gathered, you all stumbled into magic by accident, and ever since then, you have been using it as you please."

They managed to create a wave of energy that dissipated the copies but exposed themselves to the smoke, rapidly closing in and engulfing them. Coughing, they all closed their eyes and cleared their vision until they discovered they were not alone, as another copy of a younger version of themselves stood smiling at them.

Dash was taken aback and ready to fight her copy when it spoke calmly, "This way, you don't have to choose."

"What?" Dash relaxed as she stared at her copy with a raised eyebrow.

The copy laughed and started making balancing gestures with her hands. "The athlete, the hero, the rock star, you can be all that at once and more with a single move."

As they talked, the rest were having a similar conversation

"The ex-apprentice of Celestia, she-devil of Canterlot/ the prom queen, the world's heroine." Sunset's copy started to list. "Aren't you becoming tired of carrying so many titles? You can just let them all go, run away, and never look back, start again for good this time. One last do over."

"From one crazy adventure into another, it has become our daily routine; when can we rest?" The copy of Fluttershy asked, "It's true that we want to help, but we're still teenagers, aren't we? We have lives, dreams, and goals. Do you want this to be the rest of our lives?"

"You can't fool me, partner. You were always the worst liar. You crave the simple life, just you, your family, and your farm." The copy confronted AJ, still maintaining her calm smile. "To be a farmer."

"To be a tailor," Rarity gave her copy of a similar speech

"To have lots of parties!" Even Pinkie's copy was getting in her head

One by one, each girl started to get drowsy and began to lose the battle against falling asleep. Pinkie was struck with a final idea in the lapse of conscience and quickly texted a message and hit send with one last burst of willpower before falling asleep.

"Are you ready to say goodbye to your ugly past?" Copy Twilight offered her hand while behind her was forming a gem encapsulating Midnight Sparkle.

"I-I'm afraid," Twilight confessed with tears, kneeling before her copy.

"Don't be; this is only what you want." Her copy encouraged her and sat beside her, bringing her into a hug. "Even gods need to rest occasionally; you did more than enough; you learned a lot. You did plenty of what others asked you to do. You earned a break, even if it's just a brief one. Just relax and breathe in." The copy chanted, turning into a pile of feathers for the unconscious Twilight to fall asleep upon.

With Sunset being the only one left, she could only take one glance at her. She devil copy had been encapsulated too. "Would she...be gone for good?"

"It would be as if she never existed in the first place, just relax and go to bed, me," Her copy giggled, which Sunset repeated, closing her eyes and falling backward, completing the circle of the sleeping girls. With the deed done, Temple lifted the fog and nodded at her handy work before looking at the gems containing the memories of Midnight Sparkle and Sunset Demon Shimmer.

"Now, what to do with you?" She hummed and picked the devils up with an intrigued eye. "Eh, I will figure it out eventually" She shrugged and placed them on either side of her natural body. With that resolved, she extended her wings as seven new chunks of crystal formed in the sky.

"Time to work." Closing her eyes, she recalled the events with the sirens and what happened before that, finding how the music seemed to channel magic efficiently in this realm. "If music and song can channel magic as a horn would do, then all I need to do is sing a sweet lullaby for my dear Equestria. She created a giant portal to view Canterlot Castle and stood in front of it with an expression of pure serenity.

Summoning various musical instruments, she clears her throat and starts to sing with all her heart, a horn soon appearing on her forehead.





The effects were almost immediate as all of Equestria started to hear her music and song coming from the sky, followed by golden rays that enticed others closer before they all fell asleep. The power and wave of magic were so strong that fissures spread out at the portal's edge and breached into other worlds. Yet, with her eyes closed and focused on her song, Tempo did not realize the disaster she was creating as sand started to spill into the portal, turning in copies of herself to accelerate the process even more.
> Meeting The Survivors (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Skipping through the street with a big grin on her face, Sonata was virtually glowing from happiness as the group made their way back to school; next to her was Neferti, who, although not as excited, was also happy as the two chatted about Sonata's new powers, and discussing how she can use them as well as battle strategies while checking on all the messages Twilight left them on Sunsets phone.

Behind them were the two Bluebloods, one unable to help but feel pride in his handiwork and the other lost deep in thought, a notion his counterpart quickly noticed.

"Something on your mind Blue?" The Prince asks with a raised eyebrow.

"Huh? Oh, it's nothing. Just thinking about how crazy this day has been. I mean crazier than normal." He replied, keeping his head down and avoiding eye contact.

With a knowing smile, the Prince nodded a couple of times. "It felt good, right?"

"What?" Teen Blueblood looked at the Prince with a mix of surprise and confusion

"Don't worry; it's completely natural, and more importantly, I understand where your confusion is coming from. Having this strange sensation in your chest. Discovering what it's like to help another just because having that strange warm sensation coursing through your body feels weird but in a nice way, right?"

"I...suppose," the teen admitted, bringing his open palm to his chest before looking at the Prince. "Did the same thing happen to you with Nefertiti?"

"Oh yeah, when we first met..." The Prince paused and looked at his counterpart, confused. "What are we talking about here?"

"Ah... helping others?"

"Oh! Then yeah! Yeah, the same thing happened; a bit of a rocky start...and some conflicting emotions here and there, but that's it."

"Great! same here." There was an awkward silence until the teenager decided to speak again.

"So...what happens next, then? Do I ignore them? Do I do something about it? Do I talk with someone?" The teenager asked, resuming the conversation

"Heh, that is the question, isn't it? I would love to tell you that there is an easy answer, but there is not, and I can only suggest the first step."

"And what would that be?"

"Take this opportunity to do some introspection; look inside yourself. Wonder what you truly want to do next, talk, act, plan, then do. Do what you feel most comfortable with. Never ignore what you are feeling. Trust me; it will never go away."

"What if I'm scared?"

The Prince sighed before replying, "Not gonna sugar coat things here, Blue; the whole process can potentially be large, tricky, maybe even painful, and yes, extremely scary, but trust me when I tell you this."

The Prince smiled and looked at his friend "The rewards you get from all the hard work you put in are more than worth it, and I guarantee you that you will no longer be alone."

That left the student quiet as he thought about his doppelgangers words and looked at Sonata and Nefertiti smiling when gazing at Sonata. "That actually is encouraging. Tell me, Prince, how long did you and Nefertiti take to get where you are?"

In annoyance, the Prince only rolled his eyes at the comment, "For the last time, we are just..."

"Friends, right, right, so you're not there yet then." The teenager smirked and nodded a couple of times, which only peeved the Prince even further. "I'm just gonna say this; I have caught you taking glimpses."

"I won't even humor that with an answer. Nefi and I are just friends, just like you and Sonata can be, too, if you give her a chance."

The student nodded and started to ponder his words "Right...friends," He replied half-heartedly and remained quiet.

Oh god, I forgot. They are still teenagers; of course, all that melodrama will be there with both of their hormones on a rampage. The Prince internally sighed.

I better be careful before Nefi, and I get dragged into all that drama once she starts flirting again. Now that I think about it, she mostly does it with me. Have I grown so used to that and our little mental games? Now that we have had time to get to know each other... not to mention her emerald eyes... NO! I'm not going there; I promised the girls I would not touch the subject until everything was back to normal.

The Prince shook his head with another blush as the two Bluebloods picked up their pace to catch on to the two girls.

"Bludegard Zagreus Blood!" Startled, the group stopped and looked to the right, three of them getting ready to fight while Teenblood hid behind the rest, only to be surprised when they saw none other than Celestia and Luna in human form approaching them along with a handful of students. The adult pair, in particular, appeared to be glaring at the Prince, who was at a loss for words when he noticed them.

"Is that a sword?! You better have a good reason for being armed young man." Celestia started to scowl at him, yet the Prince remained frozen, his mind running a mile a minute.

"Your full name is Bludegard?" Sonata blinked and glanced back at the teenager

"And your middle name is Zagreus?" Nefertiti added

"Yeah, what about it? Isn't the same for him?" The teenager asked, peeking out from behind his counterpart.

"Not it's just Blueblood for me." The Prince immediately replied without breaking eye contact with the royal sisters. Both kept a stern look as they continued advancing, not realizing they were talking to the wrong person; their group hung back, looking tired, dirty, and ragged.

Nefertiti looked at her friend with concern when she noticed the Prince was starting to tremble.

"Blue, they're not..."

"I know Nefi...I know, but even if they are just another version...their voices, their personalities...if they had been in my past life, would they have looked like them?"

Both ladies stood before him with their arms crossed with a stern look. "Well? What do you have to say?" Celestia demanded an answer, yet the Prince surprised both by, rather than replying, enveloping them in a group hug.

"I know you are not them. My god, I know you are not, but...but, for all I know, my aunts...I just...I want to believe they are ok...I need to believe nothing bad has happened to them." He tightened the hug and did his best to hold back tears. Both principals were soon at a loss for words and were surprised when they spotted their real nephew, who was nervously laughing and stepping back from them.

He stopped once he spotted Luna's glare and went silent, understanding her silent order saying, "Don't even think about it."

"You're not our Bludegard, are you sweetie?" Celestia asked with an empathic voice as she slowly tapped the Prince's back, who shook his head negatively.

Ending the hug, Blueblood cleared his eyes before bowing and speaking to them, "Greetings to you, Lady Celestia and Lady Luna. Apologies for my rude behavior earlier; that was inappropriate; please allow me to begin again; my name is Blueblood, Prince and active ruler of Equestria."

"And I'm Princess Nefertiti the First, princess of Abyssinia and ally of Equestria and Prince Blueblood. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance," she greeted, holding an invisible dress and curtsying as the two formally introduced themselves, putting the principals in a very awkward situation.

"Ah, t-thanks? It's nice to meet you too," Celestia tried to be friendly and greeted them in return. "So, I gather you come from the same world as the other Twilight that visited us a couple of years ago?"

"Indeed, she is my cousin and has told me stories of this strange yet fascinating world; I was intrigued and wished to visit someday. To tell you the truth, I am pleased to be here. I just wish it would have been under better circumstances."

"Well, when Twilight first visited, it wasn't exactly to sightsee either," Luna remarked with a knowing smile. "Oh, and if it's not much to ask, could you please not do that type of greeting again? Celestia and I aren't rulers here, and frankly, having kids bowing to us is rather uncomfortable," Luna concluded, earning a slight glare from her sister for how blunt she was.

"Understood, and honestly, you would be doing us a favor." Blueblood responded, and they both nodded and chuckled, more relaxed now that introductions were out of the way.

"Like you could not imagine, keeping that act up can be exhausting. " Nefertiti commented while sighing in relief.

"I certainly can relate; I still remember when Ms. Sparkle walk through my door while bowing her head." Celestia recalled with a roll of her eyes as the atmosphere seemed to be calming down. Leading to the rest of the students slowly approaching but occasionally shooting a glare at Sonata.

"There is so much I want to ask right now, but there is one pressing matter we must attend to first." Celestia excused herself as the students started to surround the royals to introduce themselves; Blueblood recognized some familiar faces like Lyra and Bon Bon. He was then slightly startled when he noticed a teenage version of Photo Finish attempting to take a picture with a broken camera. Most startling was what he would swear were his four royal guards. His surprise quickly gave way to a pang of guilt and worry about how the twins, Amber and Stellar, were doing. All of them were eager to speak with the two.

"You alright, Bluey?" Nefi asked in concern as she touched his shoulder and snapped him out of his daze.

"Y-Yeah, I'm ok now. Listen, what happens there..."

"...Relax, I get it." Nefi calmed him down and dismissed his apologies with a wave of her hand. "I would probably be the same if I suddenly saw any members of my guard or all of my family safe and sound..." She started, then paused when the realization hit her. "My family... I don't know how they are. Ok, now I REALLY get where that came from, although I'm not sure I'm ready to figure out how they would look all human-like." She shivered, causing Blueblood to laugh a little and ease the tension somewhat.

"You get used to it pretty fast, trust me." Sonata interjected, trying to lighten the mood, something complicated by all the stares the students were giving her. "Yeah... Would it help if I apologized for what I did?" She asked hopefully as the students' glances turned to glares. They were, however, startled and confused when the royals stepped up in defense of Sonata, which she was more than grateful for.

While all of that was happening, the principals focused their attention back on their real nephew with a stern look. The teenager started to panic and even attempted to run for it until Luna stopped him with a word. "Hold it, young man!"

Bludegard tensed up and slowly turned to look at his aunts with a nervous chuckle "H-Hi, aunties."

"Hi, aunties? Did you have fun sneaking out to the moon knows-where in the middle of a crisis? Do you have ANY idea of how worried Celestia and I have been?!"

That made him cringe and close his eyes as Celestia joined in.

"What were you thinking?! Do you think we are in some kind of game? The world is in a crisis, and you abandoned the shelter knowing full well that monsters were lurking around to do what? To go gallivanting around who knows where; what do you have to say for yourself?"

"I'm sorry?" The teenager shrugged while continuing to laugh nervously.

The whole conversation made the prince pause between greetings and looked over at the principals scolding his copy; intrigued, he leaned toward Sonata, who explained herself as some students allowed her to talk.

Excusing his brief interruption, he turned his attention to the siren; Nefi had the same idea and moved closer to hear.

"Sonata, just out of curiosity, did Adagio convince him to...?"

She nodded with a sigh. "Originally. The idea was to get as many "meat shields" as possible to stay safe, but he was dumb enough to be convinced with only a little praise, and well, you remember how that ended up going."

"Yeah, I get it; everything makes sense now." The Prince nodded in sadness and with a sigh as the students glared at Sonata as she tried to defend herself.

"I know it was wrong now! And I'm sorry! I've changed, I swear!" She tries to explain, but everyone looks unconvinced.

"That explains why he thought we were a rescue team, but why did he demand a limo and wasn't worried about what his family would say if they saw him?" Nefi turned to Sonata, who shrugged in response.

"He probably thought he was invincible or didn't think about it until he met with his aunts again; that is my best guess, at least."

Nefertiti blinked before looking at the teenager again and then back at Sonata "...And what about you three? Did you have a plan or...?" Nefi asked, trying to make sense of bringing the teen Blueblood along if they hated him so much

"Adagio thought we could look into what was causing this mess and see if there was a portal to Equestria that we could use or use the power for ourselves; I suggested going to the mall so we could have food, shelter, and supplies; Aria agreed because we could arm ourselves and while we were trying to figure out how to sneak back to the school we were attacked, and that is where we found you."

"Ah," Both nobles nodded as the principals kept scolding Bludegard, who could not do anything but take it.

"Ah, excuse me," Lyra steps in, raising a hand. "Not to be rude, but could you please fill us on...what the hell is going on and what is happening with you hanging out with Sonata. Sorry if I sound demanding, but this whole scenario is weird, and I think I speak for everyone when I say that we don't want another she-devil incident." The other students all nodded in agreement with neutral expressions.

"She-devil incident?" Blueblood repeated with a raised eyebrow making Sonata sigh and look away. "Long story, and I assure you it will not happen again."

"Ah, I'm sorry, Sonata, but we are not quite there yet; I think we would feel better if Blueblood was the one that told us that...as unbelievable as that sentence is," Lyra added, realizing what she just said.

The siren didn't say anything but lowered her head, which angered the Prince slightly as he stepped forward to defend her. "She already answered your question; I would just repeat her statement. I can vouch for her."

"So do I," Nefertiti added, touching Sonata's shoulder. "Unlike her less-than-pleasant companions, Sonata was caught up and swept along into the shenanigans of the one you should be angry with. Even if there was a reason, I don't think this is the time or place to be pointing fingers and holding grudges over nothing."

They all looked uneasy, exchanging glances until a crack resounded through the sky, alerting everyone as they saw storm clouds forming in the distance, reminding the royals of their shared goal.

"We can discuss this later; we must return to the school, where we should be safe."

"The school? Are you nuts?" Of all people, Amber complained at the statement, "That is where all this mess started! There is no safe place; those portals keep appearing everywhere, no matter what! That is why none of us have barely slept for weeks now."

At that moment, Blueblood noticed the dark spots under everyone's eyes and how they seemed extremely tired. "We need to move, but not toward the storm's center."

"She's right, Prince," Celestia interjected with a tired sigh as she and Luna finally returned from scolding their nephew, Luna putting her hand firmly on the teen's shoulder to ensure he didn't try anything—the irritation from the lack of sleep showing more and more.

"So that is why Twilight and the group couldn't find any survivors," Blueblood gathers with a nod.

"Hard to make a fortified shelter if at any second a portal could open in the middle of it," Nefertiti concluded. "They are students and teachers; of course, they would not be prepared for these types of conditions."

"It also explains why Twilight and the rest didn't find anyone; they were actively avoiding the hot spots where the six were searching and probably both sides were either too tired, sleeping, or on the move to notice any of them while nearby."

"We managed with what we had," Luna replied. "It's not ideal, but it is something. And as school staff and Principals, it is our duty to ensure the safety of our students. It was a miracle the monsters seemed to vanish, but that will not last and..."

Her voice was cut short when she saw at least ten creatures emerging from around a corner, approaching both royals and Sonata.

"LOOK, O..."

Before she could finish her warning, the trio had reacted and blasted the creatures with a flurry of thrusts, punches, slashes, kicks, and a sizable mystical sound wave. The creatures had barely hit the ground before the trio rushed towards the portal and closed it with practiced ease, shocking the rest of the group, minus Bludegard.

"...ut?"

With that matter settled, Nefertiti addressed the rest again. "Listen, I understand your concerns, but Twilight and her friends created a protective dome around the school. Plus, we can deal with these creatures, as you just saw. In fact, we came from Equestria to deal with this situation, specifically at the request of Sunset Shimmer. If you come with us, you will be safe and be able to have a proper rest. I imagine you have been craving that for some time now."

Everyone seemed unconvinced and kept exchanging glances until the teenage Blueblood had had enough and slipped out from Luna's grip to stand with the royals.

"Come on, everyone, what's to think about it? A proper bed, for heaven's sake!"

"Blueblood, we can't just go to where all this mess started." Lyra complained, showing her stress.

"You're right! There are plenty of other options available! Go ahead and head to the other secure refuge with a monster-repelling dome, two super powerful royals, and the siren from another world capable of dispelling the monsters and the portals they come from." He remarked sarcastically, leaving everyone dumbfounded as the siren and royals only blinked, unsure what to say.

With a frustrated sigh, Blueblood turned around and grabbed Sonata's wrist. "Let's go! I don't want to be in the middle of the storm."

"Ah...ok," Sonata stammered and followed alone, leaving the royals and survivors behind to stand by awkwardly.

"This is an offer, not a command. You can do what you want. Just know that we can protect you better there," The Prince decided to offer as he and her friend resumed their march toward the school.

The survivors considered their words until another crack from the sky helped them decide and follow the group.

"How did they do that?" One student asked, perplexed by how they managed to convince the group to follow them, give Sonata a chance, and even listen to their version of Blueblood.

Another one shook his head

"Just don't overthink it; that is how they do things."

Taking advantage of their lead, the lioness looked at the Prince with a concerned look as she spoke in a low tone, "Bluey, there is something we need to discuss."

He glanced around to ensure nobody was paying attention and leaned toward her. "What is it?"

"We have a little hiccup with our plan," She explained and showed him all the messages from Twilight and the final one from Pinkie that she just received.
> Team B Strategy (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"There, that should do it," The prince informed Celestia as he cleaned some sweat from his forehead after placing the last gym mat on the floor next to a line of others for the students to use as improvised beds. "Would that be all?"

"It's OK...ah, Blueblood, we can take it from here," Celestia replied, trying to hide her embarrassment. "To tell you the truth, I'm still feeling a bit bad letting you help us this much; I'm the one that should be doing all of this." The principal confessed with a slight chuckle.

Once everyone was safe and sound, the principals got to work organizing the students and using the gym equipment and other materials to form improvised beds for everyone, something that was easier said than done since everyone was still pretty stressed out, tired, and irritable, making following any order a gamble with everyone being only one complaint away to becoming a huge problem.

It did not help when the royal group discovered Twilight's equipment was damaged and in dire need of repair. Despite all that, the prince was prepared this time and decided to use his courtly training to keep the peace amongst the students and get them to cooperate with the Principals while some tried to clean the mess in the lab.

After an hour or so, everyone was set and finally resting peacefully

"Don't mention it; that is what we are here for. Listen, if you need anything else, don't be afraid to ask; I will be in Twilight's lab, go ahead and take a break."

"Oh no! I couldn't possibly..." Celestia tried to protest, yet she quickly sat on a mat at the prince's insistence.

"I insist; you must also rest like your sister." He reminded her, gesturing at Luna, sleeping near the entrance. Earlier, she had offered to stand guard, though five minutes from beginning her vigil, she was out like a light, so Blueblood placed her on a nearby mat.

"But I can't. I know you mean well, but my principles won't let me leave everything in the hands of children. I...I..." She tried to struggle, but her tired body screamed at her to stop, and she soon faced a losing battle against slumber.

"Think of it this way. We may still need the help of a supervisor; if that happens, we will rest easy knowing that they would not be fighting against falling asleep, right?"

"I...suppose not" She nodded once, closing her eyes. "Plus, I still need to ground my Bludegard. OK, but just for a bit." She lays her head down on the makeshift futon, and the prince uses a sheet of fabric from home economics as a blanket for her. This brilliant idea came courtesy of Nefi, who saw multiple blankets with all the yarn she found.

The prince nodded, stood up, and left the room with his work done. His copy was close behind, looking on with envy and curiosity about how well he managed to handle his aunt.

After a short walk, the prince entered the lab, where everyone else was present.

"She can read our minds with the sand?" Sonata reacted in shock while the prince took a seat next to her. Once she finishes reading, Sonata puts down the wall of texts Pinkie just sent them detailing everything they saw, Tempo's master plan, and how dangerous her feathers are. She then placed the phone at the center of a table.

At the suggestion of Sonata, the royals decided to connect the phone to a power source so as not to risk it running out of battery life. They placed the phone on a conference call with everyone they could keep contact with in both the waking and sleeping world, an impressive and almost impossible feat if it weren't for Pinkie's intervention, asking one of the sleeping students to describe to her briefly what a cell phone is so she could make a couple of them. "That's just the tip of the iceberg, Sonny. My major concern is how using the equivalent of their elements against Tempo didn't stop her in her tracks. Shouldn't that be impossible? How could she keep going despite being blasted repeatedly?" Nefi said, trying to come up with a plan.

"To use the elements, you must stay calm, focused, and relaxed." Twilight explained from the dream realm. "In theory, the elements are unstoppable, but if the users get distracted or have questions and doubts, their power diminishes; that is why when Princess Celestia used them on Luna a thousand years ago, they only managed to seal her in the moon rather than cure her. At that time, she had too many emotions swirling inside her for a clear goal to be reached. Tempo most likely used the same principle for her defense. Using their dreams and desires in a peaceful dream to mess up their concentration."

She sighed as a not-too-pleasant memory surfaced. "That's how Discord prevented us from using the elements against him the first time. Tempo used the same trick, and they weren't prepared for it."

"Then we simply have to blast her right away before she has time to mess with our heads. Once there, Blueblood fires immediately and doesn't think about it. The fallout from a blast can cover the planet like when we used them against the likes of Discord; I think if you do the same, we can save us all from a lot of trouble." Dash suggested. "Besides, this is what? The fourth time you dealt with this kind of thing?"

"This would be the fifth, actually, and it's not that easy, Dash; of the previous four times, I only managed to prepare for one, and the last one, I was half prepared, but Desire still managed to get the jump on me. This time we face a completely different problem. Our foe is not seeking me out, and it's not planning anything. It's doing nothing and still somehow gaining power. This issue is like trying to scale a wall made of sand, the moment you make the first attempt, there is nothing to hold on to, and you end up back at the start, or you trip and fall."

"Will all due respect Bluey, Dash does have a point." Sierra observed. "From what I gather, each and every test you have endured has been unique in its own way; sure, three of them were surprise attacks, but you, for each, were a force to think on your hooves, find an angle, and think outside the box."

"Yeah, like she said, this is a weird one, but so were the others. You can handle this, Blue. Just use that head of yours." Dash encouraged him enthusiastically. "And preferably, with a plan for us to kick some butt on the way."

"Thank you for the votes of confidence, girls; I appreciate it; I will keep all of that in mind. But my point still stands, due to the unusual nature of this, we can't just march straight in as Twilight and her friends did. That would end up with us swallowed by the sand; we need to carefully plan each step we make while we still have time."

"Speaking of which, darling, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but..." Rarity spoke, concerned creeping into her voice.

"What is it, Rarity?"

"Before I tell you, promise me you will not stress out over this and rush anything."

Those present at the table exchanged glances before nodding. "We promise"

"Good, then just as the other Pinkie mentioned, we started hearing Tempo singing in the sky not too long ago before a very unusual electric storm emerged not too far from Canterlot. And this one... erased everything the lighting touched."

"It disintegrates everything it touches?"

"Not exactly," Sierra replied. "I have never seen this phenomenon before, but it erases things. As Rarity said, Blueblood, each time the lightning strikes, a perfect spherical crater forms, no debris, no smoke, no explosion, no nothing; it's like it just took a chunk of the ground or the building or whatever it touches, it even defies gravity as the structure remains with the hole."

"Reality itself, oh no, oh no, no, no, no, it's starting!" Twilight yells, starting to hyperventilate."

"Darling, you promised!" Rarity complained, sounding rather upset

"Well, we did, but technically not Twilight," Sonata reminded her, much to Rarity's annoyance.

"What is starting Twilight?" Blueblood asked, trying to remain as calm as possible.

"Reality is unraveling. I read this in one of Star Swirl's books on quantum magics; it's pure theory, but he stated that if you open a big enough portal between two worlds, one of the worlds would start to tear or split into pieces. He also says that if you continue to pour magic into the bridges, that one would become a hot rod that would start to undo the basic principles of matter and..."

"Ah, Twilight? Can you explain it in a simpler way?" Sonata interrupted, starting to lose track of what she was saying. With a sigh, the princess relented and explained it differently.

"Imagine traveling between worlds is like walking on a frozen lake. Stepping through a stable portal is like you stepping lightly and carefully checking if the ice is strong. What Tempo is doing is stomping everywhere with heated boots! Step too hard, and the ice starts to crack, which is the storm Rarity described. It is the second layer, and the sand and breaches are the first; there are three layers of protection. When we hit the third one, huge chunks of matter will start getting sucked away from each world to appear or disappear randomly somewhere and somewhen else."

Dash gets the idea and gulps, "Ah, just out of curiosity, what happens when the ice finally cracks open?"

"...Existence breaks and collapses on itself; we would no longer exist." Twilight replied grimly.

"WHAT?!" Teenager Blueblood startled everyone as the group turned their attention to the entrance where the student entered and closed the door behind him with a look of pure horror.

"Blueblood! Now I know you just broke your promise." Rarity called out in disappointment and anger.

"It wasn't me, Rarity...it was my human counterpart."

The prince explained before approaching him, "Blueblood, what are you doing here? Aren't you tired?"

"Forget that! Did your Twilight say that our worlds are ending?!"

Nobody answered, and the silence was deafening. The prince could only sigh and look at Nefertiti, who nodded and sped behind the teenager to lock the door before he could leave and gently held his shoulders.

"Yes, she said that, which is why we are working hard to prevent that from happening." The prince replied as Nefertiti pushed Bludegard forward.

"And now you, naughty, curious boy, will have to be part of said group for snooping in a private meeting," Nefertiti whispered, increasing the pressure on his shoulders and leaning over to his ear. "Unless you want to be trussed up, gagged, and stuffed in some locker. We can't have you going around yelling about how the world is ending and causing mass panic."

The teenager gulped and nervously nodded at her implied treat as she sat him in a chair—Twilight then sighed.

"It would not change things anyway; soon, the effects would start pouring into their world too."

Everyone exchanged worried glances before the prince addressed Twilight again: "Twilight, how much time do we have before the final layer of reality collapses?"

"From what Rarity is telling us, we should have a couple of hours at best, and from what you told me, using any portal in either world would only speed things up; not only that, but unless we stabilized it first, using them would be dangerous, you could swap minds, lose limbs, or go blind and those are the best case scenarios."

The implication of those being the best options made everyone shiver at what could be the worst.

"Is there a way to buy us more time? And make use of portals again?" Sierra asked, trying to come up with a solution.

"There is; the elements can patch things up somewhat, and although they have never been used for this, they can reinforce the layers of reality once more, giving us more time. However, if we do that, you lose your main advantage, Blueblood."

Everyone looked on as Blueblood drew Llamrai and stared at the glow surrounding it; he addressed the others with a sigh and a determined look. "A necessary loss. I don't like the idea of parting with my sword or relinquishing the elements, but it seems we are out of options now."

"Maybe not. What if we use something even stronger instead?" Sonata asked, remembering something and gaining everyone's full attention. "Hear me out here, according to Pinkie, through music; magic manifests in this world. Remember when you try to use the elements against us, and we manage to overcome it?" Sonata told Twilight

"Yeah, I remember we turn the tides when Sunset starts singing again and...Sonata, what are you thinking?"

"Well, since I got these new and improved siren powers, I'm more in touch with my singing and sound; if I use and aim my music at the tears, we could reinforce the layers even more. I mean, you all remember when I first sang?"

Those at the table all recalled the illusion.

"She has a point, it could work, and we can still keep our advantage that way," Dash mentioned.

"Plus, it would explain why all the breaches have closed since we exited the mall," Nefertiti added. "It even gave the survivors a boost of energy to meet us from what they told us. Sonny might be onto something."

"We also have another thing that we should consider," Pinkie mentioned, "Bluey's Dusk form; with it, he would be protected from Dreams detection, right? Why else would he have to keep the princesses close to him?"

The rest pondered her reasoning and determined that she had a point.

"Dusk Form?" The students repeated with a raised eyebrow

"Blueblood, can you tap into that form in that world?" Twilight asks with a mix of curiosity and concern.

"I suppose it is a possibility, even more so with the elements still working here, but I wasn't sure if I should even try; magic works differently here, after all."

"In any other situation, I would not even consider it, but this is an emergency, and we must use everything we can; Pinkie is right. In the worst-case scenario, you would be better protected," Sierra confirmed,

The prince thought it over before nodding. "Fair enough. I will attempt to tap into that form before we depart."

"Good; meanwhile, Nefertiti, could you help me with the machine the other Twilight and Sunset built? With the help of Sierra, I'm sure the three of us could repair it.

"Can I trust you? The fate of the world ending should be enough incentive for you to follow my instructions to the letter, right cat?"

"Go ahead and gloat, you pesky mutt; rest assured, I will return the favor in kind...later." Nefertiti promised as she sighed, "Don't worry, Twilight, I will help as best as I can."

"O...k?" Twilight replied, unsure what to do with the sudden tension she was stuck in the middle of.

"Meanwhile, I will speak with the principals." Sonata offered. "If I'm correct with my theory, I will need their help, and any other student that's good with a musical instrument, plus I kind of owe them after we tricked their nephew into escaping with us, and the last thing we need is them getting angry or scared again."

"Thanks, Sonata" The prince nodded and smiled at her before looking at his counterpart. "You should go with her. The two of you can build a solid case, and I know how things are with your aunts. Maybe it would be best if you don't stray too far."

The student thought about it and shivered in fear before shaking his head. "Y-Yeah, I can do that later, and maybe it would be best if we don't tell them about the sword incident; we need them to trust you, right?"

The royals exchanged a glance and shrugged. "Makes sense, but it wasn't like I was gonna harm you."

"That is not how they would see it, and you haven't told them what the deal is with you being armed and just dropped it because they got distracted, so let's avoid certain details for now. I need to discuss something with you, so that I will follow you for the moment. I'll need to prepare if I'm going into that mess."

That surprised the group, but the royals smiled and nodded. "We will not question it if you decide to join Blueblood, but I suggest you tell your Aunts what you will do. Otherwise, you might get in even more trouble." The prince warned him as Bludegard nodded.

"Duly noted it, but I'd rather go with you than face my aunts with how they are now."

Nefertiti shrugged and shook her head. "Suit yourself. Welcome aboard, junior; it will be nice having you on the team."

"Guys, we are still missing something," Skystar, who had been quiet the whole time, spoke up. "Crossfire Tempo and Dream, how do we deal with them? How do we even open a portal TO them now."

"The portal in front of the school is still there and has been cleared of sand, and Twilight's coordinates are still here. We can use them to make a path.” Sonata reply

"If not, I can make it into one," Sierra promised, "I just need a crash course on how things work and CLEAR information. Thank you in advance, kitty.

Nefertiti grumbled, and the prince could hear her mutter, "Only until we are safe," in a grumbling tone.

"As for those women," Bludegard inquired, "I may have an idea, but I need to confirm something with my copy first...and it's a sensitive and private subject. Is Tempo your godmother too?..." He asks in a sorrowful voice.

"...yes," The prince replied, realizing something he had forgotten until his counterpart brought it up. He still needed to prepare mentally to face a family member that was not possessed, an evil copy, or had bad intentions."

"Yeah, then we need to discuss something. I'm starting to see where this plan of hers comes from.

Everyone glared at him as he confessed to spying once more.

"OK! I admit I have a problem! Can we not point fingers now?! At least you don't have to repeat anything."

The prince sighed and shook his head. "We can discuss what you want to do on the roof and see if it helps while I try to commune with my Dusk form. While we do that, Nefi, you are the expert on strategies, traps, and schemes."

"You are making me blush, honey," She smirked with no hint of sarcasm. "I know what you are about to ask, and yes, I think I can come up with several ideas on what to do once we go there. Once you are done, let me know what you come up with from your private chat. I'm curious to know what Junior has in his head."

"A cat that's curious, what a surprise." Sierra quipped, earning a snarling hiss from Nefi

"You know what? You're a straight dogsh..."

"OK, enough, you two!" Having enough of their back and forth, the prince interceded, "We had an understanding; you two promised me that you would not allow your action to be dictated by your families OR stereotypes, right? So act your age, tone down the jabs, and try to work together, OK?"

"....Sorry, Blueblood," The princesses apologized at the same time, making everyone that wasn't present in the casino blink in surprise.

"We know what we must do, so let's go. We have two worlds to save, and every minute counts," He ordered before exiting the room, followed closely by Nefertiti as the rest still tried to figure out what they had just witnessed.

"Ah, does anyone else know what just happened?" Sonata finally asked both the phone and the local Blueblood.

"Lots of things happened in Las Pegasus, darling," Rarity finally answered.

"Yeah! Bluey has stepped up to take on the ruler's mantle... Cool, right?" Skystar adds with a giggle.

"Oh, sorry, almost forgot," Nefertiti returned and picked up the cell phone. "Need that, OK Mu...Sierra, what do you need to know first?" The princess sighed and approached Twilight's blueprints as the teenagers only shrugged and left for their respective missions.
> Tales Of Tears and Love (Edited by BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Looking down from on high, both versions of Blueblood admired from the rooftop how Sonata finished talking with both principals as they paid attention to what she said and the small gestures she made to emphasize her points. The Prince let out a breath of relief as the sisters seemed to nod in understanding, in what he assumed was agreement. That and a fast-approaching storm influenced their decision. As Twilight and Rarity described, parts of the buildings started to disappear with each lighting strike, leaving only holes or craters in their wake, telling all how little time remained.

"What do you think her plan is?" The student asked his counterpart, ducking his head back from the corner of the rooftop to avoid being spotted by his aunts.

"Whatever it is, it can wait." The Prince then looked at the student. "Right now, I'm more interested in knowing what you need to tell me privately."

"Right, I did promise you a story; sorry for delaying things... It's just this one is not one of my favorites." He admitted with a sorrowful voice as he stared at the floor. Meanwhile, the Prince sat crosslegged and extended his arms, touching his thumb with his middle finger as he closed his eyes and practiced breathing exercises to calm his mind.

"Then why are you telling me? If you don't want to talk about it, it is unnecessary." He replied, keeping his eyes closed.

"That's the thing! There IS a reason why you need to hear it! Blue..." He clenched his fist and took a deep breath to steel his nerves. "...This is about my version of Crossfire Tempo, my godmother, and how she was before she...she was..." He could not finish the sentence as he got increasingly angry, doing his best to contain the tears.

The Prince was stunned by this revelation and opened his eyes to regard his counterpart; his meditation was interrupted. He could, however, feel tiny sparks flying on the tip of his hands while Bludegard continued.

"And as much as I don't want to talk about it, there are too many parallels with your version of our godmother. That is why I need to tell you this story. I think...I think all this chaos is her trying to hide her grief."

"Blueblood..." The Prince moved to extend a hand, feeling pity for his companion, only for the copy to step back and yell at him in fury.

"Don't! Don't you even dare! Prince or not, armed or not, better or not, don't you ever dare pity me! Do you hear?! This is about her and ONLY her. Are we clear?"

The Prince was momentarily stunned before starting to piece things together about why his counterpart was adamant about looking like nothing was wrong and that he could do anything.

"It started as an act so people would not pity you," the prince thought out loud, making the copy angry. "So that's why."

"I SAID..."

"I heard you." The Prince stopped him and nodded. "We will focus on her," He responded neutrally as the teenager stared at him momentarily and cleared his head. "Tell me her story."

"...good." Nodding, Bludegard needed a moment to compose himself and took a deep breath before starting. "Long before I was born, my godmother was a pilot, one of the best. She was known as the queen of the sky, the captain of her team, and the best damn pilot you have ever heard of, Bearing the title of "The Wonderbolts." She and my mom had a... complicated relationship."

"When you say complicate...?"

"She never forgot my dad; let's leave it at that."

"Ah." The Prince nods, understanding what he means, and resumes his meditative pose, trying to harness the new surge of magic he is experiencing. If...nah, she could have just made a herd. If that were the case, you'd better not overthink it too much.

"Still, she was a very close friend of the family, which was why my parents made her my godmother before they passed away. I believe she never truly recovered from the news, not completely, at least so much so that she dedicated every moment of her life to raising me like I was her son. Prince Blueblood...she was the best godmother possible, always attentive, always working her hardest to give me the best life possible, the most kind, diligent, and maternal aunt. The very best..." He needed to clear his eyes again and sighed. "Sorry, I know I'm getting off track a lot here, but this topic is sensitive for me. At first, I was shocked to hear how your godmother was the polar opposite of mine. How lazy she had become, but now that I have heard her plans, I was shocked. I...I am starting to see my aunty once more. Now, I think I understand what is going on."

"What makes you think that?"

"Because even though she was the best, it didn't start like that. As I said, she never fully recovered when my parents died. The first few months after it happened were the worst. She couldn't seem to summon the will to move a muscle and would only leave her bed when it was absolutely necessary." Bludegard clenched his fist and stared at it in complete fury. "Just like that son of a bitch Sharp Shooter planned. She spent all that time just sleeping and trying to pretend my parents were still around."

The name elicited a reaction from the Prince, yet he held his tongue, not wanting to get side-tracked from the subject at hand. "And you think that is what is going on? She's just grieving?"

"More like She's trying to pretend nothing is wrong, Prince. I know my godmother; I know denial and what she is doing, her reasoning, even distracting herself by "saving" others...this is the same step-by-step of what my aunt once did after she got up from bed. She started to overwork herself to keep herself distracted and pretend nothing was wrong...hurting others by mistake, including herself, and I know exactly how to get to her. Like we did with Aunt Tempo years ago, I would need to get in close to snap her out of that mentality. I need to know everything you know about your aunt Tempo to build the perfect model and see the differences between yours and mine."

The Prince considered his options and what his copy was proposing. Comparing matters with his godmother and her shaky relationship with his aunts, he quickly found the parallels. Even considering how Sharp Shooter's name came up again, even if he didn't have all the details yet.

"What you are proposing has potential, I won't deny that, but there are two things I need to ask if you have considered before agreeing to this idea. First, your solution solves only half the problem, and we still have Dream to be on alert for. Second, even accounting for Dream and putting him aside, this idea puts you directly on the line of fire. As ironic as it may be, you would put yourself into bizarre danger, completely at odds with our earlier conversation. What made you change your mind?"

"Who's say it changed? I will leave the dangerous stuff to you; I would only be dealing with my...ah aunt Tempo and get her away from all this mess, pony or not, she is still my...I mean! She is a version of my aunt, and I know she would never harm me!" He needed to correct himself before looking down. "She is just confused and has been consumed by denial. She needs to be confronted so she can snap out of her issues. Once that's done, I'm sure we can put everything back in order." He claimed confidently, but the Prince detected a hint of desperation in his counterpart's voice that he couldn't understand completely. Even though his copy wanted to help talk with Tempo, he needed to have this conversation.

"Plus, it would mean I can say goodbye." He mumbled the last part before looking at his copy more confidently. "If you can deal with the rest, I can help you. That, and well..." The cracking sound of lighting in the distance sent a shiver down the student's back, and he shook his head a little. "I don't have much of a choice here, am I? Either I help you and risk my neck out there...or stay here and most likely lose it or die when the thunderstorm hits us. I mean, you will need my expertise in the field since you know next to nothing about my sweet aunt." He pointed at himself, trying to hype himself up and ignore how scared he was of the whole idea.

The Prince let him have that ego boost and nodded once with a smile. "Fair enough; if you are sure you can convince Aunt Tempo to stop, then I will leave her to you and Sonata. Her sonic powers could come in handy if she needs a louder approach, and she can protect you; Nefi and I can deal with Dream in the meantime if the girls agree to that."

"Sounds like a plan; I will tell them about that then, and Prince, what we just discussed..."

Anticipating what he was going to say, the Prince shook his head. "If you want me to keep quiet about Tempo, I will...but due to the nature of this mission, I think it would be impossible to keep it that way for long. They deserve to know and need some information if we want this to work."

"...right, but can we at least skip the details?"

The Prince remained quiet before sighing, "I will let you tell them if you prefer, but if it is important for the mission, then I will speak. Communication is key, Bludegard; if you want anything to work out, that is something you can't avoid."

"F-FINE! But ONLY what is necessary and not a single detail more," He clarified as the Prince walked away and drew Llamrai.

"Fair enough, we will do it your way. And as thanks for telling me your story, allow me to return the favor and tell you one of mine." Blueblood offered with a smile, moving his hands and leaving a faint red mist behind them, feeling like he was starting to control the energy

"Huh?" The student looks at Blueblood, confused, as he looks up at the sky

"I heard you earlier; you were confused when I mentioned my dusk form, yes? Would you like to know what we were talking about?" The Prince turned to his counterpart with a smile that sent a shiver to the student as he noticed how the environment suddenly got colder and there was some pressure in the air.

Swallowing the lump in his throat and with a mixture of fear, excitement, and curiosity, the student could only nod once.

Nodding, the Prince took and looked intently at Llamrai and gripped the hilt with both hands so he could stare at his reflection on the blade. "Some time ago, I was at a low point in my life; I barely understood magic; the ponies around me were weary of me, and I was pretending to be something I was not. Things went from bad to worse in the blink of an eye."

The wind started to pick up around him as his eyes glowed red, startling the student. "Then, when I was at my absolute lowest and climbing my way out of the hole I made, I thought about my aunts. In particular, my aunt Luna and how she had her own low point." A red cyclone of magic started to form around him as the Prince recalled his lessons with Princess Luna involving his transformation

-"The intention, emotion, and focus were correct, but the direction was all wrong; I may have the title, but I'm not exclusively dedicated to the moon, nephew. Expand your view, see my realm for what it is, and connect with the night itself,"- Luna instructed him as the Prince nodded and took deep breaths.

"It was in that moment that I found the way to break my limits and reach heights I have never imagined possible, all by simply focusing on one thing."

"W-What was that?" The teenager asked, more than a little scared at what was happening to his counterpart.

The Prince chuckled and looked at Bludegard with a calm smile. "Love."

As he said those words, the cyclone swallowed his whole being and rose into the heavens, dragging many clouds into its vortex. The scream of the Prince could be heard over the wind, and a rainbow of lighting corsed over his form seemed to interfere with the transformation, mutating it into something completely different. Yet, the Prince endured, focusing on his training and tensing his muscles throughout the process.

It's different from before; I don't feel the warmth... It's like I'm trying to chew on electricity itself. Calm down and focus. Remember, connect with the night as a whole; don't try to hold onto it; merge with it.

The teenager was almost blown away and had to cover his eyes from the light show as the Prince screamed and grunted occasionally from pain until he regained control of the energy and the air finally cleared.

At that exact moment, Principal Luna felt a cold chill running down her spine as she looked back suddenly while she and Celestia talked with Sonata.

"What is it, Luna?" Celestia asks her in concern

"I-I'm not sure; suddenly, I felt a strange chill, scary yet nostalgic somehow," She confessed, looking back at them and holding her head in worry.

The two ladies could only blink before looking at one another.

Back on the rooftop

"Well... isn't this a curious change?" The Prince observed out loud as the teenager looked at him in awe, his jaw wide open once he saw the Prince, who stood up again, now recovering from the power surge, before smiling and approaching his copy.

"Take a good look, my other self; this is what happens when we break free of our shells and dare to dream with full determination!" He extended his open hand at him. "Would you like to try?" He mentions tilting his head and offering his hand.

An hour later

Both Bluebloods walked back inside to find Nefertiti carrying jumper cables and a car battery on a cart. "Ah, good, you are done. Would either of you gentlemen help me carry all this stuff outside? I have three or four more of these that I need to connect to the statue." She asked with a hopeful smile before noticing the Prince and seeing how, besides now wearing a red hood, his swords fused into a two-handed flameburge resting on his back and how his hair was now silver; not else had changed in his physical appearance, much to her disappointment.

"That's it?" She asked, perplexed, tilting her head to the side

"What do you mean, Nefi?" The Prince mirrored her expression, equally confused.

"Nothing is just...well, after all that fanfare and whispers of the dangers of magic working differently here, not to mention the whole fight with Desire... Long story, don't ask." She stopped the student from asking. "I don't know, I was hoping there would be...more."

The comment made the Prince laugh as he approached the cart and took over for Nefi. "Trust me, kitty cat, this is just scratching the surface," he assured her confidently, much to her confusion.

"Kitty Cat?"

"So, we're connecting this stuff to that statue outside? No problem." The Prince looked at Bludegard. "I will fill her in junior. You can go to find your stuff."

Bludegard gulped and nodded before walking away from the two, earning more confusion from Nefertiti.

"Ok, seriously, what's gotten into you two now? Where is he going? What stuff?" Nefertiti asked while following Blueblood.

"Heh, well, aren't we a curious kitty?"

"And stop with that already; it's getting on my nerves," Nefi warned him as the Prince shrugged.

"Fair enough, Nefi, no more pet names. As for your question, well, we had a heart-to-heart. My version here has a history with Aunt Tempo, one stronger than mine, from the looks of things. It didn't end well, or perhaps he has unfinished business with her...do you recall what I did with my aunts? Same situation."

"Oh," Nefi eyes widened slowly, and she nodded once. "So it safe to say he is coming?"

"Oh, he is coming. He even promised to take on Tempo for us, too. I suggested taking Sonata with him so we can focus on Dream." They both reached the school entrance and stopped in front of the statue, with two more jumper cables on each side and a long cord from the school grounds back to the lab. "Which is fine with me, but I wanted to fill you in before doing anything."

He showed her his arm and pulled back his sleeve, revealing a black and red miasma emanating from and hugging close to his skin. "As you can see, Blood Moon is in the house, and in this crazy world, that is a game changer." He smirked and let go of the cart to offer her his hand, "Particularly with how it has put me in a sharing mood. So what would you say, Madame, would you grant me this dance?"

The lioness looked at him, intrigued and surprised by the development of things, before looking at her gauntlets and started feeling excited at the prospect. "Why, sir, that is quite the alluring proposal." She took his hand, and her hair began to change to the gold the Prince typically had as the miasma danced around his weapon and hand before flowing over to her. Soon after, Nefi's cat ears appeared on her head along with her lioness tail. "And I'm more than intrigued by it; tell me more."

She joked as the two laughed, their eyes turning red before returning to work and setting everything in motion for the plan
> Celestia Great Solo (Edited By BS) (With Special Guest!)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once the royals finished setting up the computer and connected it to the portal outside the school, Blueblood called Pinkie and Twilight to see how things were going on their end. At the same time, Nefertiti checked the systems to make sure the controls were working correctly.

"And are you sure you are okay? No dizziness, no surges of magic...no strange thoughts of doing something evil?" Twilight asked worriedly as they talked, making the prince laugh.

"I'm fine, Twinkle Star? Besides having a propensity for giving cute nicknames and more confidence that borders on arrogance, I'm in total control. Don't forget who you are talking to. I'm the Prince of Darkness; I wrote the book on how to party with the dark side." The Prince kept boosting, which did not help his case and only succeeded in worrying Twilight even more.

"Just be careful and don't go abusing that Form, Blueblood. Celestia knows what could happen if you maintain that Form for long periods of time."

"Duly noted it, cous. I will see how Sonny is fairing with the principals. Think you got this here, Nefi?"

"Everything is pretty much set; we are only missing the power source." the Princess replied, looking at the screen on the computer.

"Then we better go secure it," Blueblood responded calmly before leaving in search of Sonata.

Soon after, the Prince located the group in the music room just in time to catch the end of their discussion. "...so when you are done with the portal, you can redirect the energy to the dome to protect you from the storm while we repair everything," Sonata finished.

"I'm apprehensive of the idea of sending children into danger again," Celestia quickly pointed out, dreading the whole idea. "Are you sure that neither Luna nor I can go with you?"

"We appreciate the thought." Blueblood chose that moment to appear, leaning against the room door frame. "But honestly, you would be doing much more good here than there."

"Blue...ah, Prince Blueblood?" Luna questioned as both principals looked at his new appearance with worry and surprise. "Is that you?"

"Oh! Neverminded my makeover; I was preparing for the trip."

"So that is what you were referring to as your Dusk Form? Just getting taller and dyeing your hair?" Sonata asked, confused as he approached the group.

"Sea angel, this is just the tip of the iceberg. You haven't seen anything yet." He proclaimed with confidence before addressing the adults in the room.

"Thank you very much for volunteering, by the way. I sincerely appreciate it and am glad to see you with more energy, but you have nothing to fear. This isn't my first rodeo, and Sonny here knows how to defend herself. We got this."

Sonata continued to look at him, confused, and tilted her head. "Why are you acting like that?"

"It's a small side effect: my personality changes slightly when I'm like this. Don't worry, I'm still the same guy you met...only a bit more confident," He explained calmly as he sat in a nearby chair. "So, is there anything I can do to help convince them, or are you all done?"

"We understand the bulk of the plan, which seems simple enough." Luna decided to set the conversation back on track. "We just aren't thrilled with the idea of having to trust the safety of everyone to children. And yes, I know that Twilight and her friends usually do these things, but I feel that her misadventures and this event are completely different."

"If it makes things easier, we are not in danger." Blueblood tried to appeal to them before sighing, "The one responsible for all this is someone you may know...or knew a version of her. It's Crossfire Tempo, and she is not doing this out of malice." He picked up Sunset's phone and handed it to them so they could read Pinkie's text.

"She just doesn't know what she is doing or the danger she is putting all of us in by her actions."

"Tempo...is doing this?" Celestia questioned with a sorrowful voice as the Prince nodded briefly.

"Oh, Tempo, even in another world..." Both principals sighed and closed their eyes as they nodded. "Thanks for telling us this, Blueblood. It somewhat makes things easier."

"Really?! Great! Then we can start, Blue? Can you enchant some musical instruments like last time? We would need to connect a lot of mics and put all the speakers we can on the rooftop if we are planning..."

"I just want to change one thing," Celestia interrupted Sonata's ranting sternly. "I would like to be the one to perform Sonata. You focus on going with the rest."

Luna looked at her sister in surprise. "Tia, are you planning what I think you're planning?"

"I would be honored if you could join me, dear sister, but I recall your decision not to touch your slayer again. Not yet, at least."

"...yeah" Luna admitted, looking down in shame. "It's still too soon for me." She takes a glance at Blueblood before shaking her head when she saw her old self grinning at her “I still have issues to attend” 

"Ah, no offense, principals, but back when I was with the dazzlers, we creamed the competition. Do you even know how to sing or play any instrument?"

"Is that, by chance, a challenge?" Celestia questioned with a smirk, which Luna soon copied.

"Young lady, you really shouldn't poke the bear like that."

"Oh ho, you both have that look, too." Blueblood observed as a shiver ran down his spine.

"That look?"

"My aunties had this particular look that she rarely used. It is the look she gets when ponies don't believe they can do something and are often left speechless afterward." Blueblood explained before Celestia took his hand.

"Come with me, dear. I know exactly what instrument I need you to enchant. Lulu? Could you prepare everything else?"

"Sure, I will look for any students that can help as backup." Luna confirmed confidently as she took Sonata with her. "And we can place everything properly during or after that. We better hurry. We don't have much time."

"Ah... okay?" The siren and Prince pensively agreed, unsure of what was happening or what the principals had in store for them.

"Also, there is something you should know," The Prince began, but Celestia already knew what he would say and sighed.

"Bludegard is going too, isn't he?" She asked with sorrow while looking at him. The Prince was only able to nod.

"I figured as much when the Tempo on this world passed on to a better life. He was on a camping trip and didn't know it happened until days afterward. Since then, he never forgave me for robbing him of the chance to say goodbye. I don't like it either, but I'll believe you if you think he will be safe."

"... Thank you." The Prince nodded, grateful for not having to convince her further as they got to work.

After rounding up as many students as possible, finishing up with the necessary equipment and connecting them to the power source. Nefy spent some time testing a satellite dish while aiming it straight at the fast-approaching storm.

"All systems ready," She informed Luna, who nodded and tested the sound equipment before talking to Celestia through a headset microphone. "We are all connected, and we are in the green sister. You are the only thing missing now.”

"Copy that, and we are already here and waiting for the signal." Celestia responded through her own earpiece before looking at Blueblood and Sonata, enchanting the last of the instruments as the students took their places around a grand piano where all the jumper cables converged, and five microphones were angled to catch the best sound. "Whenever you are ready, Blueblood."

"Are you sure you know what you are doing? I'm serious here. We need the most powerful song imaginable for this to work." Sonata reminded Celestia as she sat before the piano.

"Oh, sweetie, I know, I'm sure. Please allow us to help you at least this much. We will buy you as much time as possible."

Thoroughly convinced, the Prince gave a small smile and nod. "Okay, I trust you, Principal Celestia."

He then turns to Sonata, "Don't worry, Sea Angel, if she is only half as good as my actual aunt, we couldn't ask for a better person to keep everyone safe. If she says she has everything under control, I believe her."

"Ah, thanks?" Celestia replied, unsure if that was a compliment or an insult. As Blueblood drew forth Clarent, the principal was startled until she saw him aiming the point at the instrument.

"What are you doing?"

"Giving it a little tuning up, you will need the magic spark here." As the same prismatic light left the weapon and enveloped the piano, the principal could feel her whole body tingle as she was filled with renewed vigor during the entire process. "There, that should do it."

Blueblood then pulled out a timer and set it up before placing it on a desk next to the piano. "Give us five minutes, and then start playing. Once the portal is stable, we will send the signal so you can redirect the power to the dome so it can protect you while the storm hits. Good luck here."

"Likewise and Blueblood," Celestia called to him before he and Sonata departed, her face showing worry. "Please be careful out there,"

"I always am," He replied confidently as they left and the timing began.

"I still think I should be the one singing," Sonata complained with a pout as the Prince patted her back.

"Come on, Sonny, don't hog the stage. Let others have their chance. Just think of them as your opening act. Besides, the team stays together this way, and I want to hear another of your performances."

The praise did the trick as Sonata smiled and blushed slightly at the comment. "Aww, okay, I suppose I can let them try first." She said with a giggle as they continued advancing until they spotted Bludegard exiting Luna's office, trying to make as little noise as possible and holding a rectangular box in one of his arms.

"Blueblood?" Sonata questioned, tilting her head and startling the poor teenager who almost fell and dropped the object before catching and composing himself. "What were you doing there? What is that?"

He shushed her to keep quiet in alarm. "Not so loud!" He whispered urgently before looking everywhere to ensure that the coast was clear. "I was looking for Yamato for the mission."

"Mission? Wait, you are coming too?" Sonata asked in surprise.

"Right. Because we were so busy, I didn't have the chance to fill you in. Yeah, he is coming with us." Looking at his counterpart, the Prince nodded and tried to find the right words. "It's safer there with us, and in exchange for keeping him safe, he is willing to help with Tempo since he knows her so well."

"She was my aunt here, and unlike you, I lived with her more, so of course I know my aunty. I can take her off your hands so you can focus on the dangerous stuff," The teenager confidently says.

"O...k, fine, I suppose, but what's in the box, and why do you need it?" Sonata insisted.

"It's just in case there are more of those sand monsters." He explained, opening the box and revealing a katana with a dark blue saya and an elegant golden belt to carry her.

"Wait, isn't that the katana that got Principal Luna in trouble with the law? What did you call it?...Yamu...Yatu something," Sonata questioned as Blueblood put the belt on and adjusted the sword to rest comfortably on his left hip before hiding the box in a nearby locker.

"Yamato, and yes, it is, and she would flip if she found out I'm taking it on this mission, so let go!" Bludegard reminded the group before walking as fast as he could toward the entrance.

"I told you already, junior, you don't need to be afraid of what you saw. That is only part of Aunt Luna. To use the power, you need to see her as a whole. All things considered, yours is way better than mine. "The Prince reminded him of their experience on the roof when the teenager took his hand.

"Oh, I already saw that side of my own aunt Luna, and trust me, it is not! So if you'll excuse me, I will look for another way to defend myself." He said, tapping the katana's hilt on his side, making the Prince sigh.

"You are blocking your mind, dude, but okay, we can go one step at a time. Just relax and let the magic flow naturally." The Prince advised with a shrug of his shoulders and looking at Sonata. "Speaking of which, I never told you of a little trick I learned about earlier."

He extended his palm and showed her some red mist emanating from it. "Turns out I can share my magic more easily here while in my dusk form. Meaning I can protect you from Dream's nasty sand. Nefi and my copy already have had a taste, and I wouldn't want you to miss out on this, so would you like a taste, too?"

He offered his hand as she looked at him worriedly. "Would you be okay sharing so much magic? You already gave me and Nefi a bust of power with my voice and her gauntlets, and now you are saying that you gave her even more, helped the other Blueblood, AND enchanted a whole music classroom. Aren't you getting tired?"

"I appreciate the concern, but Sonata, I'm okay. I still have plenty of magic to spare, and I'd rather keep all my friends safe than hoard all the power."

She was not entirely convinced but nodded and took his hand. "Okay, but ONLY to protect me, keep as much magic as you can with you. We are going to need it."

"Duly noted." He briefly nodded as their eyes flashed red as he transferred even more of his magic into Sonata to protect her from Dream and boost her power for the upcoming fight. "Also, just as a precaution, could you keep an eye on my copy while he deals with Aunt Tempo?"

"You think she may harm him?"

"More like she could be stubborn, so step in only if things get out of control, you think..."

"Yeah, okay," She nodded several times, "I will step in and do what I can."

"Thanks, and great. We could even tag teams to keep those two off balance."

"I say mostly Tempo. Dream would probably be groaning and moving his claws around like a kid not wanting to leave his bed," Sonata joked with a roll of her eyes, making the two chuckle. As she walked forward to discuss their plan with the teen Blueblood, the Prince took advantage of them not paying attention to him to lean on the wall and take in a deep breath of air. His energy was reaching his limit, and he needed a moment to collect himself.

Only after I saved Equestria, my friends, my family, and my herd. That last thought brought the image of Fluttershy and the rest of the mares he made promises to flash by in his mind. Enjoying the memory momentarily, the Prince finally shook his head free of his thoughts with an intense blush.

Focus! This is no time for daydreaming. Girls, I promise I will fix this…


Finding his second wind, he stood tall and rushed to meet up with the rest of his group before they noticed he was lagging.
With the timer reaching its end, Celestia sat down in front of her piano, took a deep breath with her eyes closed, and prepared herself mentally. The music club members similarly prepared their instruments and tried to calm their own nerves.

"I know this is nerve-wracking for many of you," Celestia spoke up while caressing the keys on the piano with her eyes closed. "Over the last couple of weeks, things have been tense, scary, and difficult for all of us, and probably would just keep getting worse unless we stop it here and now."

Opening her eyes, she looked at the group surrounding her with a calm, serene smile. "I believe in all of you. I have seen the blossoming talent all of you possess, and I couldn't ask for a better team to play with here."

Her words calmed them all as they nodded, and the principal returned her gaze to her piano keys. "I don't know what may happen once we begin, but regardless, I ask you, please lend me your talent. Help me perform this song as our hearts beat and shine brightly. Let us save everyone with a performance like no other before."

Now even more determined, they all got into position as Celestia began playing the second the timer rang out its ending countdown.

"I'm ready, sister," Luna said as she controlled everything from her end.



As the music started playing, Sonata could only stare back at the school, dumbfounded at what she was hearing while the group waited for their opening.

"Did...did the principal just own me?" She asked no one in particular as she gestured back at the school

"Well, duh, you all but challenged an internationally renowned piano player to see who was the better musician. What do you expect would happen?" Bluddergard snarked with a raised eyebrow.

As the music continued, the magic started forming and spinning around the principal, engulfing her with a golden twister and almost overcharging all the machines set up to gauge and moderate the magical output as the portal came to life and the statue outside the school turned to gold.

"This is it, that's our signal!" Nefi called as they all gathered around. "Everyone knows what to do?"

The group all nodded, minus the Prince, who finished with a final call before looking at Nefi and nodding. "Great! Remember, we have this one chance. This is all or nothing. We need to end this here, and now, there is no room for mistakes. We go hard and fast and do not let her breathe. Let's do this!" They all jumped inside the portal with a battle cry as the performance continued.

Redirecting the energy, Luna reinforced the dome as it took on a golden hue and shot a beam into the storm, freezing its place before the machines burned or fried themselves. Once everything was stable, she looked at Celestia worriedly.

"Hang in there, sister, you can do it," she called to her through the mic, yet she could only hear static.

Celestia's eyes turned white inside the twister, and her hair started to flow, scaring her. Each movement she made felt like an electric shock. All she could see was gold and sand, along with the sound of fire looming closer to cook her inside and out.

It's...too much, too much magic! What was I thinking?! I'm not the Celestia Twilight or Blueblood think I am. I'm not a goddess. I'm just a principal. I can't handle all this power!

She was on the verge of tears and nearly stopped playing when she suddenly heard her voice speaking to her, and she found herself in a white void, her tail and glowing hair still present.

"Yes, you can," Another Celestia affirmed as another version of herself appeared before her. The principal didn't know how to explain it at that moment, yet she was sure that time wasn't moving and felt she was experiencing an extracorporeal event.

"Are you...from the other Twilight and Blueblood world?"

The other Celestia stepped forward. To the principal's astonishment, this version of her looks more human than what she would expect. However, she has large white wings splayed out behind her, and while her body has human features, her head resembles a pony. She wore what looked like battle armor and held a flaming sword. "I'm not from the world you're talking about," the new Celestia said, "but I can still help. My world is as dangerous as yours so we can help each other."

"Indeed," Yet another Celestia's voice called from the right, and they were surprised when a white horse stepped from the void wearing golden armor. "It appears that fate has brought us together at this moment. We all hear your song. And we hear your cries for help." The pony Celestia says with a reassuring and calm smile. "Don't fear the power you now experience as it is part of you, no different than your own beating heart. I know it is scary at first, but all you need to do is surrender to it."

"So my nephew was right about there being more horselike versions of me." the humanoid Celestia observed in awe before regaining focus and raising her flaming sword. "We are all here to help. I won't let this destroy my world! I just got my sister back, and I won't let these beasts take her from me or my beloved nephew!"

The principal could not help but laugh. "So this is what they were talking about, Twilight and Blueblood. I can't believe I get to see my other self as actual goddesses, in control of their world, while I barely have control over my school."

"I'm no goddess," the anthropomorphic Celestia denied immediately.

"Nor I," the pony Celestia says, "and you shouldn't sell yourself short either. Even without magic, you are as extraordinary as we are.".

"But what else can I do? I wanted to help because I thought that my ability with music could do something, make a laser beam or a power wave or something like that, and that would be it, but this…this is just too much. I don't know what is happening or how to control it."

"You are helping more than you realize," the anthro Celestia said, smiling as she raised her sword again.

"And there is no shame in being afraid either." Another voice joined in the conversation, a masculine one, spoke up as a male pony stepped in. This one wore a more orange ensemble but carried himself as every inch a warrior king, making everyone blink. "Tapping into the unknown is something we are all more than familiar with, as well as the fear that comes with it. Having the courage to march forward despite the fear makes us who we are."

"Heh, I'm guessing you're named Solaris," the anthro Celestia remarked with some amusement.

"And you must be Celestia. It is a pleasure even if there is no time for pleasantries." Solaris greeted in turn.

"Yeah, like he said?" came another voice from on high. The principal almost choked when a white dragoness with rainbow scales descended and circled everyone. "There is no shame in fear; we all have obstacles to overcome, and none of us could have faced it without fears and danger."

The anthro Celestia nodded. "Even when I faced down the Order of the Sun for what they did to my brother's family, I was afraid that I would lose myself in my anger and hatred." Her flowing mane briefly flashes to pure flame before returning to normal, "but when I found my long lost nephew in an orphanage, I found hope again. I was afraid even when my nephew and the zebra princess were lost for a time. However, I refused to give up, and neither should you. We will be here for you."

"But I don't even know what to do now, how can I use magic? I have never wielded it before. I don't know the first thing on how to use it?" The principal looked scared now.

The pony Celestia could only chuckle. "Magic does not come with an instructional manual or is a globe or a machine you can use and dispose of."

"Magic is what you make of it," the anthro Celestia says. "Do what you can. Nobody can ask for more or think less of you."

"As Celestia and Solaris, that is what we are." Solaris continued. "We are and will always be that beacon of light for our subjects, family, and friends."

"The emotion you felt when you started playing? What were your thoughts?" The dragoness asked.

"To…to keep everyone safe, to end this nightmare. I only wanted to help." The principal admitted, starting to smile and hold her chest.

"Hold onto that feeling," the anthro Celestia says, "because that gives you strength. It's what gives us strength. Keep your focus on those feelings and thoughts. It is our greatest source of power. Not power for power's sake, but the power to protect those we love!" With that, she brought her sword down and stabbed the ground. A circle of flame surrounded her.

"Magic can also be expressed in various forms, and it looks like you found yours, and you don't necessarily need a horn to cast it." The pony version mentions that they lit their horn and made another magic circle appear, and they started to surround the principal.

"My nephew certainly doesn't," the anthro Celestia chuckles.

"Or your breath, your magic comes as you want it to come, so play Celestia, play with your heart, do not worry about the burden as we will help. I heard your thoughts about wishing to save everyone. Let's share that thought. Let's save our little dragons." The dragoness lay down and created yet another arcane circle using her voice in a strange language nobody understood, the magic helped ease the pains of the principal body.

The anthro Celestia raises her arms to her side, reaching towards the two other versions of herself standing on either side of her. "Join hands, hooves, or claws," she says, "and we'll share the burden. All of us."

Nodding, the principal cleared her eyes of tears before resuming playing her piano. Her magic emanated and expanded until they all formed a pillar of light that pierced the heavens and split into five.

"My nephew would love to hear you play this," the anthro Celestia says softly, "he plays the piano too, and you play magnificently."

"Thank you." the principal smiled as the power cleared the storm, again placing her and multiple other worlds in a temporary state of peace. In the throne rooms in various Canterlots, a giant mirror hung in mid-air where all Celestia's could see the one responsible for this peace, who stared back, just as confused by them.
In the school, Celestia collapsed once she finished her final note, and the students quickly gathered around her. "Principal!" Amber called out, lifting her head slightly. "Are you alright?"

"Better than ever, Amber," Celestia replied between deep breaths. "I found my magic," She proclaimed with pride.
> The Stubborn Sloth (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Upon opening the establishment's doors, all the Crossfires stopped what they were doing the moment they saw none other than their nephew walking up to the reception as the one stationed there continued going over some paperwork with her eyes closed and humming a happy tune, "Hi! Welcome to the golden mirage. How can I...?"

She stopped mid-sentence once she opened her eyes and saw a nervous and younger version of her nephew standing before her. "Hi, Aunty, it's been a while."

"B-Bluey? Is that you? As in the actual you, you?" She asked, raising a hoof to touch his face, yet he stopped her by grabbing it.

"I'm here for you, auntie. We need to talk face to face, and I would prefer it with the real you. Please, I don't want to talk with a copy."

"Oh? Oh! Ah, sure, sure, the door is that way." She pointed to her right and gave the same instructions to the other mane seven that had come through earlier.

Nodding once, Blueblood thanked her and went to confront the real Tempo.

Standing before the doors, Blueblood took a deep breath before pushing both doors wide open. He was startled when he saw all the feathers, sand, and floating islands everywhere, as well as the giant Alicorn, hitting what appeared to be a gold crystalized mirror floating in mid-air next to a giant bird creature made of sand, sleeping using a hill of feathers as a pillow.

Steeling his resolve, Blueblood marched forward, ignoring everything around him until he was face to face with the giant sand alicorn, who, upon seeing him, smiled and bent down to see him more clearly.

"Blueblood, my sweet snowflake, you came to me just in time. I was about..."

She was about to hug him when Blueblood raised a hand to stop her. "...I know, Auntie, Pinkie told me."

"She did?" Tempo looked surprised and turned to her right, where the human Pinkie was still enjoying her dream of baking another cake. "When?"

"It's not important, Auntie. I know you want to do good, and your plan sounds incredible, but you need to listen to me."

"No need to say anything, sweetie; I know what you are gonna say, and the answer is yes."

"What?"

"I was planning to look for you anyway and wanted to find a couple more of you later on. Isn't it wonderful? We can all be the family we always wanted to be, without pain or grief, only my nephews and I in our perfect little world. I need you to be more patient, however. Something seems to be trying to block my magic, and I need to..."

"No!" Blueblood howled at her in anger, "That's enough, Auntie! I know I only want what you think is best for me, but you are putting words in my mouth! I need you to listen to what I have to say."

For a moment, she remained quiet before bending down again to look at him eye to eye. "Of course, dear, I'm always all ears. What is it?"

Blueblood trembled and had to hold back tears. "I don't want to do this again. I'm sorry."

"There is nothing to apologize, dear, whatever you did before I forgive you."

"No, I meant I'm sorry for this. NOW!" Blueblood screamed and rushed forward to hug Tempo's nose, while from his shadow emerged a copy of himself sporting silver hair and a red trench coat, a woman with cat ears and a lion tail wearing giant electric boxing gloves and a massive siren floating in mid-air before swimming right at her.

Minutes earlier, at the school entrance


Once everyone gathered, Nefertiti didn't waste time and demanded to see if, with Blood Moon magic, they discovered any new powers, serving as an example when her ears reverted to their lioness form, and she also recovered her tail. Her additions seem to be made of pure electricity, and her gauntlets increased in size and now discharged black electric energy.

In Sonata's case, the power boost allowed her to increase her size and grow a siren's tail, in addition to giving her gills on her hips and neck, plus green-scaled skin and sharp fangs—all that while returning her ability to fly as if she was swimming in the air.

For the Prince's part, he revealed the rest of his transformation, which included two horns, bat-like wings, and his skin had taken on a more reddish hue. Lastly, his sclera also had turned black, increasing the intensity of his piercing red eyes.

His wardrobe had also undergone alterations beyond the inclusion of a hood. He now wore an elaborate crimson-red trench coat, a combination of black jeans, and a tight shirt.
The appearance had an intimidating air to it. Especially for the teen Blueblood, who asked his counterpart to return to his other form, confessing he doesn't have anything magical going on and how the Prince only gave him a red aura to surround and protect his body from mind reading.

Reverting to normal, Nefi considered all this new information before arriving at a plan of action.

"OK, listen up. We must time our actions just right to get the jump on Tempo and Dream. First of all, Bludegard, you would need to carry all of us until we are right in front of those two."

"Excuse me!?" The teenager screamed in shock and terror. "You just want me to march in there head first? Like, I'm just picking up a book from the library? And how am I supposed to carry you? I'm the weakest one here."

"I didn't mean that literally. We will hitch a ride on your shadow."

"In my...my shadow?" He repeated, perplexed, before looking down at his own shadow. Nefi demonstrated her point by stepping onto it and then sinking into it as if it were made of water, shocking everyone briefly before she quickly reappeared.

"See? Like this. It cannot be any easier."

"H...how did you...?"

"It is an Abyssinian technique that only royalty and our elite soldiers can do. The boost in power from the Prince reawoke that power in me just like it gave Sonata her flight back. And more importantly, it gives us an edge. Listen up, junior; since you're the Tempo expert, we will be trusting you to take the lead. Do what you need to get us inside and as close to her as possible; once you have her right in front of you, give us the signal, and we will spring from your shadow to divide the two."

"I have a technique where I have control of dreams in a specific zone. I can use it to protect you and keep those two apart. By using you as a conductor, you can have limited control inside. Whatever you think of will manifest as reality, plus you would also have Sonata as additional backup. So you can rest easy knowing we've got you covered as long as you trust us."

The teenager was a bit unsure but nodded. "And would I be able to say my piece once you use that trick?"

The Prince remained quiet for a moment before nodding. "Yes, even if she's different, this way, you can have closure."

"Thank you, and all I have to do is make sure my shadow is positioned in front of her, right?"

"That is all. You carry us there, and we will give you the space to do your thing with Tempo while Blue and I take care of Dream."

"Yeah, I can do that. I know exactly what to say for her to stop." Bludegard assured them confidently.

Back at the present

Prince Blueblood placed his hands together and extended his palms before summoning forth a deep red orb with wailing faces whirling around within it, increasing its size before launching it and encapsulating Tempo, the other Blueblood and Sonata, in a Nightmare Opera.

"Up to you, Blue, Sonny. Good luck." The Prince smirked as he and Nefertiti turned to face Dream.

"As for you," He takes out his massive sword. "I don't know about you, Nefi, but I'm craving some chicken right now."

"I could go for a bite," Nefi played along as her gauntlets crackled with electricity as they approached. The griffin did not notice anything happening and moved his head to get a more comfortable position on his pillow.

"Hey, Sandy!" Shouting to get his attention, Blueblood made a vertical slash that rent the air asunder and sent the blade of vacuum through the intervening space, catching the back of the griffin's neck and making the creature stir in its sleep. "Rise and shine, the sun's up, and you need to move that fat ass of yours." the Prince continued to taunt, yet Dream barely acknowledged his existence and lazily lifted his head to look at the pair with groggy eyes.

"What now?" Dream leaned forward as his eyes focused on the two, specifically on Blueblood. The Prince smirked, believing he was getting angry, yet to his confusion and surprise, he didn't seem bothered.

"Ah, it's you, that annoying heir from that pony that used my powers and pretended they were hers." Yawning, he nearly swallowed the two royals whole before the gust of his breath almost blew them away. "What do you want? Can't you see I'm trying to sleep?" He complained disinterestedly as he laid his head on the giant pillow again and tried to close his eyes.

There was a moment of silence until another electric bolt and air slash at his head made the sand griffin cringe and look at the two with annoyance. "Afraid that is not gonna happen, Sandy," Blueblood composed himself. "You see, we don't care that you are a lazy potato, we don't care that all you do is lay around pretending to be a sand hill, but when you take our homes, friends, and loved ones hostage? We do care."

Dream rolled his eyes and turned his head. "Again, with this? Just leave me alone. I was only paying a debt. Go and complain to Desire. She is the one that did this; I am only keeping up my part of the deal."

"I'm sorry, but I'm afraid that will not happen." Nefi rushed ahead and stood on Dream's beak. "The thing is, we already dealt with Desire; she is the one that told us how this is all your doing. So if you ever want to go back to sleep, you better fix it."

"You are expecting me to believe you stopped Desire? Please, don't let me laugh."

"We didn't; he did it all by himself." Nefi clarified, gesturing at Blueblood, who pointed the sword at him.

"And I would gladly show you how. Now, I would prefer we resolve this peacefully, so will you move, or will I have to turn you into a lawn ornament first?"

Dreams attention to his sword and starts to charge a rainbow light on it; groaning in annoyance, he sighs and closes his eyes. "I'm too tired to deal with this; play with these if you want a fight that badly." He turned away, showing them his back as Blueblood prepared and loosed another blast, yet before it could land, a blast of red energy burst up from the floor and deflected his attack.

Moments later, both royals froze in shock when two crystals rose up from the floor near Dream's body, Which quickly formed into copies of demon versions of Twilight and Sunset Shimmer. However, they had one disturbing new feature: instead of eyes, there were mouths ringed with razor-sharp teeth. Taking flight, the demons looked at the two royals with creepy smiles and charged magic within their hands.

"OK, that is just disturbing," Nefi remarked, gulping audibly at the sight before them as she readied her gauntlets. "Not sure what use could there be of using mouths for eyes, nor do I want to find out. Let's deal with those fast."

Preparing for a fight, the Prince nodded, glancing back at the dome behind them.
I hope you two are faring better there.


Inside the bubble


Once they split off from the Royal duo, Tempo managed to brush off Bludegard and took a step back in surprise as the sphere enveloped them. "Two Bluebloods? But I...? How?" Her eyes widened in realization. "You are my Blueblood from this world, aren't you?" She asked, yet she didn't sound disappointed, angry, or confused. Instead, her voice, appearance, and eyes were serene and relaxed.

"Oh, my sweet little snowflake! Now I have two of you to spoil rotten!" She extended her wings to bring Bludegard closer until he spoke

"Auntie STOP!" The outburst snapped her out of her reverie as the student stepped forward. "You need to stop! I know you mean well, but this is just madness! You are going to kill us all!" He managed to say, gathering all the courage he had in him. While inside, he was practically screaming.

Sweet, merciful god! I'm scolding a freaking KAIJU! Have I lost my freaking mind?! What the hell am I doing here?! I'm so dead.

Swallow hard, he tries to compose himself mentally. No, no! Focus! This is my chance. I need to do this. This is the only way I can say goodbye. Remember what the Prince showed you.

Closing his eyes, he tried to recall his thoughts, not realizing until it was too late that what he was thinking had been broadcast upon the dome's walls for everyone to see.

"Ah, Blueblood," Sonata tried to warn him, yet it was too late as the memory started to play out. Soon, they saw the two Bluebloods discussing and the student taking the Prince's hand, which caused the two to be enveloped in the red mist and appear in the middle of a grassy plain with a single tree in the distance.

"What the hell is going on?" the student asked, looking around, startled by the development.

"Welcome to the Blood Moon field," The Prince announced, appearing in his dusk pony form, startling the student. "A place I formed inside my dreamscape, pretty nice, right? It was one of the first things I did with my new powers." He explained while lifting his right forehoof, emanating the red mist. Suddenly, Nightmare Moon flew down, scaring the student again as she landed in front of the Prince, and they shared a nuzzle. 

"An homage to my aunt." He looked at his counterpart as he backed away. "Don't be afraid of your family, Junior. Embrace them wholey for who they are." The Prince instructed, yet the student wasn't listening, and he ran away after viewing his counterpart hugging a demon horse. His fears made her look even more terrifying at the moment.

The memory ended, and the student shook his head and opened his eyes as he kept looking at Tempo. "So if you have any love for me, you would stop this and stop being so big now!"

Tempo and Sonata both look at him with neutral expressions, making him nervous. "Please?"

"Blueblood," Sonata sighed and brought the palm of her hand to her face. "You just show her what you thought about."

"What?" He looked at her in shock, and she just pointed at the dome where the memory had frozen with him running away

"Remember? What you think happens, and what you remember is reproduced." Sonata reminded him in annoyance as he could only laugh nervously with a big blush on his face.

"Oops"

On the other hand, Tempo didn't pay much attention to them as she approached the frozen image, staring at the Prince pictured there with longing. "My sweet nephew, that is the real one, right? The one from my world." Smiling, she pressed her head against the image. "You are just like Attire, always seeing the best of everyone and having the biggest of hearts. Even towards monsters."

Her words and gaze hardened, looking at the demon version of Luna. "They don't deserve you. What aunt throws their family into danger like that? Who lets their nephews play with monsters, for pony's sake?! No, that won't do. I must fix this." She then looked at the other two.

"And it seems this world Celestia is no better, letting their own Blueblood do whatever he wants. She might as well have thrown you right into the fire herself!" She huffed in annoyance before looking back at the two teens and smiled.

"I'm not the bad guy here. I don't even want to hurt you, so why don't you join us? There is more than enough space for all of us." She extended her right forehoof to them as the ground started to turn white. From it, copies of herself began to fly all over the place, punching holes into the Prince's spell until the bubble burst, and the copies kept flying until they reached a specific distance and remained hovering in the air to stare at them.

"What?" The Prince looked back in shock as the monsters they were fighting suddenly stopped. It only took one glance at their faces for the student to scream and dash to hide behind his copy as Sonata changed into her siren form, getting ready to fight, too.

"There you are, sweetie," Tempo called out to the Prince, maintaining a serene smile. "It was a charming effort using that spell on me, very clever, but I'm in control here, dear; even with all your training, I'm still tethered to the realm of the dream itself. There is nothing you can do that I can't undo."

The group regrouped and formed up back to back as the student shivered at a loss for words. Looking at him, the Prince smiled and tapped his head. "Are you gonna waste your chance?"

"Huh?" Bludegard looked at the Prince, who was eyeing him with a calm smile. "Didn't you want to have closure with your aunt?"

"Of course I do! But how am I supposed to do that?! I don't even know if THAT is her now," he complained, pointing at the most enormous Tempo.

"She isn't. My aunt is right there." The Prince points at the giant white pillow. "This is her dream, so you must focus on the big sandy one. It won't matter if that's not the real body; she must listen to what you say."

"Remember what I told you, junior?" Nefi called out as she smiled as well, "We trust you, so you better trust us. Don't worry about the copies; focus on your task."

"Just as you asked, we deal with the dangerous part, and you care for her. You do that, and you'll take care of a huge problem for us." Sonata added. "Just rush straight forward the moment we move."

The student can only blink as he looks at the three. "How can you be calm in this situation?"

That makes the magical trio laugh. "We aren't, but at the same time, we have to be junior. I can't speak for Sonata, but when you have your kingdom's weight resting on your shoulders, you can't back down." Nefi replied, getting ready.

"As for me, I owe them my freedom and my self-confidence. I don't want my friends facing danger alone. We are on this one together to the end. Whatever that may be." Sonata explained as she bared her teeth and turned her attention to the other copies of Tempo, who started to look up.

"We knew this would not be easy, but we can't just break down and quit when things get difficult. No plan survives first contact with the enemy. That is why you need to know how to improvise."

Tempo looked at their set expressions and seemed to fold in on herself in sadness. "Why won't you listen? I don't want to hurt you. I want to make things better. Soon, everything will be better for you and for us all." She looked up and raised her wings. "Perhaps you need a sample. Let me show you how I'll make a better tomorrow. My copies, go and make everyone happy."

Her copies changed into other species and raised their hooves, hands, claws, and wings before opening more portals to other worlds and flying through them.

All the worlds soon shuddered under the repercussions of Tempo's actions as their skies cracked open. Up above, all could see an inverted view of the same desert around the royal party. All were startled when sand creatures burst forth and flew towards them at max speed, pulling everyone into a hug and putting them into cocoons. The Celestia's of their respective worlds erected domes to protect as many people as possible using their magic, be they human, dragon, stallion, or pony; they all worked together to buy Blueblood and his team as much time as possible. Even in the scholastic universe, the students and Celestia watched with the same shock as the principals clenched their fists.

"Principals!" One of the students cried out, "The sky...everything has been erased. What do we do?"

"We pray." That is the only thing Celestia could reply with as she and Luna kept staring at the sky. "We hold on for as long as we can and pray for this to end soon."

Back at the island, everyone could only stare in horror as the barriers between worlds were about to collapse at any second.

"Auntie, stop!" The Prince tries to reach her, but she doesn't listen.

"You are breaking time and space! If you keep that up, we're all going to die!" Bludegard added in, equally terrified.

"I will not allow it, you will see. I would make the perfect word for all Bluebloods, and if some worlds filled with pain are erased in that process, then it would be better for all of us!" She replied, completely lost in her delusion as Tempo raised her wings and hooves.

"Is not used. She is lost in her fantasy. We need to stop her by force." Sonata looked at the others.

As her words reached both Bluebloods, they started to look down, unsure of what to do.

"It's the only option, Blue!" Nefi yelled at them, catching their attention, "Sonata is right. This is hard for you, but you must stay strong here. Words aren't reaching her. If we want to stop her, we have no choice but to fight her head-on. We need you to use the elements on her before reality collapses." Nefi concluded while jumping on the siren's head. "It's the only way."

Clenching his teeth and closing his eyes, the Prince grabbed the hilt of his weapon. 

"Aunties, this must be how you felt during the Nightmare Moon event, right?"


"She...she is kidding, right?" Wait, what are you going to do?" Bludegard asks in horror as the Prince nods and cleans the tears from his eyes

"I'm sorry, Auntie; I swear, even if it takes another thousand years, I will ensure you're freed afterward."

"What?! A thousand...you are going to fight her? No, you can't. She is your aunt, for crying out loud?!" the student grabbed his trench coat with fear and anger. "You can't, not like this. I told you I would deal with her, so focus on the monsters. We don't have to resort to this. There may be another..."

"There is no other way!" The Prince grabbed his ludegard's shirt and lifted him. "There isn't!" The Prince stared into his counterpart's eyes briefly before sniffing and dropping him.

 "Please prove me wrong."

"What?" The student looked at him, confused.

"One last chance, and you better make it count; you say you know her and know how to reach her, right? Then I will give you that opening. I will focus my power on Dream and the rest. You better make things right because if you don't, I will never forgive you, and you will never be allowed to blame your Aunt Celestia again for robbing you of closure."

Before he could come up with a reply, they were all marching straight to Tempo and the monsters Twilight and Sunset. The Prince stopped holding back and charged all his magic and the elements into Clarent, not wanting to leave anything to chance.

For some reason, the two monsters remained still and let them pass, and they were about to tackle the pegasus until a blue blur hit their side and brought the group to the ground.

Confused, they looked at none other than the human Rainbow staring at them, and the colors of her body drained.

"Rainbow Dash?" Blueblood asks her in shock, "What is happening with you, Rainbow?"

"Look out!" Sonata uses her body to protect them from a boulder. When the dust cleared, they were surprised when Applejack appeared in the same condition as Rainbow Dash. Not only her but Sunset and the rest also approached, starting to charge their elements.

"I get it. They are brainwashed!" Nefi explained, causing the Prince to tighten the hold on his sword, starting to get nervous and not expecting this twist as he looked at how the elements now stood in between them and Tempo. His magic began to fizzle out, and to his horror, the powers of the elements stopped responding as they seemed to be fading as well.

"No, this is all their own doing," Tempo replied serenely. "This is what they want, which makes me right."

Suddenly, more and more people start to appear and glare at them. "This is their best dream ever, and they don't want it to end. From their point of view, you are the bad guys. So, of course, they would also like to stop you.

A woman summoned giant vines to try and grab them. In contrast, another gathered mirrors that seemed to be acting as black holes marched toward them. The Prince attempted to use the elements but only sparks left the sword, and the glow dimmed, leaving only a thin rainbow light on the blade's edge.

Feeling the heat, Blueblood and the group start to back away until they return to where they once stood with Bludegard.

"We don't want to wake up, and you are not gonna make us," Tempo promised, her tone now serious.

Starting to panic, Bludegard rushed forward and unsheathed Yamato, releasing all its magic. The resulting giant blue bubble swallowed the group before bursting, leaving nothing behind but a series of slashes on the ground.

Everyone blinked in confusion after this and started to look around for them but could not find any sign of the wayward group. Tempo only sighed and shook his head. "They are as stubborn as Royal—that old fogie. What Attire ever saw in him, I'll never know," She complained quietly to herself before looking at her little army.

"Don't worry, kids; I won't let them end your dreams."

As they all relaxed and returned to their dreams, the group reappeared in mid-air before falling on top of a floating island not too far away with a series of giant trees filled with apples that served as cover.

Once they recovered, Nefi didn't waste time looking at Bludegard in shock as he kept swinging his sword in the air with his eyes closed. "Junior, you can teleport?"

"I can do what?!" He opens his eyes and looks back at her before realizing where he is. "I...we...I did that?"

"I think I remember something like this happening to the other Twilight and her friends; contact with magic gave them superpowers or something like that." Sonata remarked as she returned to her regular form, but not before looking back to make sure neither Tempo nor anyone else was looking in their direction, which, to their relief, seemed to be the case.

"Seems like you awakened your own power just in time, too. It doesn't seem like any of them spotted us."

"So... I got new powers because, of course I would b-but that is good, right? Now, we can all calm down and think this through. We can devise another plan besides injuring Aunt Tempo, right?"

He asked hopefully. However, the silence of the remainder of the team was deafening as they all lowered their heads.

"Right!?" He repeated in desperation

"What other choice do we have?" The Prince fired back angrily, irritated with the whole situation. "I hate it as much as you do. But she is not listening, and you are too scared to face her like you promised. If we don't do it, everyone's sacrifices will be for nothing. We will be all gone."

He then looks at his sword with anger and concern. "So why? Why, of all times, did you decide to stop working now?"

"Isn't it obvious?" The student responded diplomatically. "Yes, I might have been a coward there for a moment, but you don't believe you can do what you claim, either." The student remarked before lowering his head and sitting down, leaning against a tree. "Let's face it. We are not ready for this, she said so herself. Nothing you do, she can't undo. We would only be wasting our time, now more than ever, since you lost your only other option."

The Prince could not think of a counter-argument and could only clench his fists, hitting another tree in frustration. "Damn it, if only there could be a way to reach her."

Looking at the two with pity, the group's women looked at one another before smiling and nodding.

"We need to keep fighting," Sonata told the pair, catching their attention.

"Yeah, Blue, I know it is not something you are used to as a pony, but there is such a thing as tough love. And hey, didn't we promise to make our voices heard?"

"I know what tough love is." Bludegard remarked back to them with a deadpan look. "Heck, that is what I did to snap my other aunty out of her pity party. I'm not proud, but that is exactly what my mom and herself would have done."

That caught the rest of the group's attention as he looked at them with irritation. "Don't be so surprised; she was a pilot, for crying out loud. Of course, those guys are used to those sorts of things, but this is different! With her, I yanked the sheets off and dragged her to an intervention and then got professional help. You expect me to do what? Hit her on the chin and yell snap out of it!?" He points downward, "She is a freaking sand dune! I would get swallowed up before that does anything productive."

"We know the risks," Sonata continued. "It's not like we are stupid either, but we still have the power to do something about it, and I, for one, don't want to see any more ponies suffer."

"Blue, you are not only the pony of dreams; you are your own pony with way more tricks than just that. Someone who promised to one day become an alicorn, isn't that right?" Nefi reminded him, causing him to smile. "If your power over dreams doesn't work, we will try something else." She raised her fist in front of him.

"I know this is scary, Bluey; I'm scared too, scared of change, scared of what may happen, scared that we may be making the wrong decision, but I'd rather face my fears and hope for the best than just stay quiet and let the world keep pushing me around." Sonata extended her fist to the student as well, giving him hope once more. "You wanted to have closure, too, right? Then I would gladly help. Let's find it together. Just leave the fighting to us."

The student felt unsure and looked at his copy, who was in the same position, before smiling. "Right, I came all that way here, and I have had more than enough sand in places I don't want to mention. I might as well reach the finish line. I don't like leaving things halfway done."

"Did I ever mention how beautiful you are, Nefi? Inside and out, you are the greatest feline princess anyone could ask for; thanks for being my friend." The Prince recovered his fighting spirit, and the two approached their friends.

"For our worlds," The bluebloods said simultaneously and fist-bumped their friends.

"For our voices," the women responded.

"For our dreams," They said collectively, causing the Prince's sword, weapons, and hair to start glowing with a new white light.

Their voices and the new shining light alerted the bigger Tempo as she looked back to see both Bluebloods walking toward her with determination.

"I wasn't expecting you two to return so soon." Tempo smiled as she started walking toward them. "Does that mean you have changed your mind?"

"You know we haven't," The Prince immediately responded, halting her advance.

"Auntie, I may be scared, but this is wrong and needs to stop right here, right now," 

Bludegard steeled his nerves and told her once again.

"This again? Don't you see? I'm only..."

"You are done talking!" They both yell at her, startling the pegasus

"We are going to talk seriously, Auntie, right here. And this time, we will make sure you listen." The Prince promised. At that moment, from the island behind them, a giant siren and bipedal lioness made of water and electricity flew into the air, attacking and blowing away all her copies before closing the portals. The Tempo was frozen and could only look at the display of power with wide eyes.

"No, what are you doing? You are ruining everything," She complained while maintaining her calm voice.

"The world you want is fake," Bludegard started. "It's just a fantasy. You're trying to drown yourself to ignore the pain."

"I am sorry, Aunty, but we can't keep turning a blind eye and pretend everything is fine. Formal Attire and Royal Treatment are dead; my parents were your friends, but they are gone, and they are not coming back." The Prince continued as the pair advanced toward her.

"No, you don't understand."She shake her head and walk backwards with tears starting to form in her eyes 

"Oh, I understand plenty about what that son of a bitch of Sharp Shooter did to you!" Bludegard's voice rang like a bell to the mares' ears as she held her head. Suddenly, they start to see her memories.

"He kept on sweet-talking to you while feeding you pills, thinking it was for the best when it was just poisoning you. By the time we realized what he was doing, it was too late for my aunt, but it is not too late for you; I beg you, aunt, snap...out of it?" Both Bluebloods were horrified at the truth they witnessed in the realm of dreams.

As Bludegard said, Shooter also drugged the Equestrian Tempo, but it didn't stop there; he experimented on her, operated on her body, and placed all sorts of spells and quite possibly curses on her body until she was left as she is now.

"Sharp is my friend, he is, he is, he only wants me to stop feeling pain, he didn't betray me, he didn't do all these cruel things, he was my right wing, he...he...he" Tempo was in the middle of breaking down as both the sand copy and the original started crying. Nefi and Sonata were making quick work of the clones, destroying the final one and landing next to the Bluebloods.

"Auntie!" They yelled and tried to approach her, but the women stopped them with a paw and fin.

"He...he can't be stopped!" Tempo finally wailed into the air, and all her copies started to break down into sand and gather on her body, and she and the original Tempo started to merge with Dream himself.

"What's happening?" Nefi asks in horror.

"What my Sharp Shooter did to Aunt Tempo was way worse than what his world's Shooter did." The Prince answered dazedly.

"Agreed, and that is really hard to do knowing what I know about mine." Bludegard added, clenching his fist. "Blueblood, when this is all over and when we rescue her..."

"You don't even have to ask. Once this is over, once she is saved..." The Prince had to clean his eyes and stare at Tempo angrily, yet his fury is directed at the one responsible for all her pain. "I will end her nightmare and make Sharp Shooter pay!"

"No, please don't do it. He is a monster that can't be stopped. That is why I must save you; I must save everyone; I must protect them; I have to put them in a place he will never find you. And I would do it because...because I would become their queen!" 

Tempo was then absorbed by a pillar of light that blinded everyone. When it faded, they were shocked to see a pure white pegasus with wings for ears covering her eyes, four other wings sprouted from her back, a long horn sprouted from her forehead, and three giant gems colored yellow, blue, and white formed a triangle merged with her chest.

"What did she do?" Sonata questioned in surprise.

"She...she merged with Dream, just like Rose did with Desire," The Prince explained, trying to collect himself. "Wait, look!" He points at the gems, where they see the silhouettes of her and the royal sisters. "So that is where Dream hid them."

The group doesn't have time to think much more about it as Tempo quickly charges and unleashes a pure white laser at them at breakneck speed. It tore through the ground and hit the Bluebloods, sending them flying.

"Blue!" The girls yelled before looking back and getting hit by two more laser beams.

The girls managed to recover first and rushed toward Mega Tempo, yet she remained still and kept shooting as they tried their best to dodge and counter. But crystal walls blocked their attacks, quickly summoned and dismissed with a casual flick of Tempo's frontal hooves.

Recovering from their own blasts, both Bluebloods tried to stand up, only to be tackled by the returned monster clones of Sunset and Twilight. Bludegard yelped at the suddenly close face of his opponent.

"Hang in there. I'm coming!" The Prince tried to help, but the Sunset clone blocked his movements and didn't let him advance, forcing the student to close his eyes and steel himself before teleporting. Then, he reappeared to grab the Prince to run from the clones, only for a vine to grab their legs and plant them on the ground.

They both tried to cut themselves free using the Prince's sword but were surprised when not only the human version but also the original versions of the mane six held their arms. The Prince, in particular, was in shock when he saw Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rarity holding his body as the Crystal clones took a step back.

"No, not you, too."

"Equestria is saved, and soon everyone else will follow." Mega Tempo claimed as pony AJ kicked him in the stomach and sent him flying, Bludegard received the same treatment from his human version of the mare. All fourteen women then surrounded them and raised their hands, invoking their elements, and slowly turned them both into stone. "This is what I meant." Tempo proclaim in a neutral tune 

Seeing the Blueblood pair's distress, the girls abandoned their assault on Mega Tempo and rushed to their aid. Nefi used her electricity to make arrows, which were quickly loosed. At the same time, Sonata kept blasting sonic waves, yet the pegasus remained still as she merely summoned more shields to block everything they tried, and then suddenly, she created a shield right through the middle of Sonata, slicing her in half. Nefi tried to dodge and kept firing until her arm suffered the same fate. They were left vulnerable for a point-blank shot that brought the two to the ground, where they lay there and reverted to their original bodies, to the relief of both Bluebloods. The cuts only affected their magical forms, and they were whole again.

"Why continue to fight if this is what you are fighting for? Pain, misery, hurtful memories? Is it so wrong to want to erase all of those things? What good is clinging to the memories that only bring you pain?" Mega Tempo asked as the girls tried to reach the two boys, but they were too tired and beaten. Both Bluebloods try to reach for them as well. Both the crystal clones grabbed their hands and prevented them from trying anything.

"Just relax and go to sleep. Everything will be fine afterwards." Mega Tempo assured them one last time as the Bluebloods found themselves with only one arm, part of their torsos, and their heads free. The student closed his teary eyes, starting to accept his final fate.

Looking at the chaos, the Prince was trying to come up with a plan for the current situation, remembering the words of his friends, seeing how many of them were also imprisoned in a pink cage, and then he finally noticed a familiar gleam in the monsters wearing Sunset and Twilight's face "...you are wrong auntie" The Prince said calmly through gritted teeth "We are not clinging to those memories to feel pain."

The spell stopped as everyone looked at him with curiosity. Even Bludeguard opened his eyes to look over. "We do it because they are what make us the people we are today. They are lessons and adventures. They are a way of accepting ourselves and others for whom we are completely, even them." he points at the clones that looked at them curiously and tilted their heads. "I can feel it in your hearts. I can't believe it took me this long to realize it. As bad as you are, you are still a part of the person you form part of."

The clones Twilight and Sunset look at each other before looking at the originals and then at him: "To accept one is to accept their flaws. That is what love is: to embrace them and move past them. Only then do you reach something magnificent. Remember what I told you, Bludegard?" The Prince smirked and extended his hand to the crystal Sunset, who was taken aback but slowly approached him. "Open your heart, see yourself in them. We both know that kind of pain very well."

"What? You mean...but..."

"Please trust in me and yourself. If you want something real, you must accept it; don't be afraid to open your heart to them."

Still unsure, but with a trembling hand, Bludegard nodded and took a deep breath before following Blueblood's example and extending his arm toward Midnight Sparkle. Both are taking their hands, confusing everyone, minus Sonata and Nefi.

"I accept you for who you are." The Prince offered the crystal Sunset Satan.

"I know how it feels to be treated like you are lesser; I will never do that." Bludegard understood and followed suit, making the crystal clones teared up and hugged them. Seconds later, they began to shine red and blue and launched both Bluebloods into the air, creating a giant white star shaped like their cutie mark. The colors of those in the dream started to return as they snapped out of their trance and shook their heads before staring at the star.

"What is going on?" Sonata asked in fascination, too exhausted to even sit.

"Blueblood's ace in the hole, his final trick, called the shadow embrace spell," Nefi groaned before they were surprised when others started helping them out and up. The sleeping spell holding them seemed to have been broken by the light. "Get ready, everyone. So far, he has only used it with Princess Luna, but when he gets his target, he can reach out to others' hearts. Something tells me this would be a variant for his dusk form."

When the light finally faded, both Bluebloods emerged in their new forms. The Prince sported two prominent horns on his forehead set above his eyes, his skin now crimson red, and rather than Clarent's normal flame-like appearance, the blade had taken a new form, substantially thicker and longer as the Prince was tall but in no way lesser in function and form. He was also adorned in armor that guarded the knees, legs, torso, and shoulders beneath a red trench coat and fingerless gloves.

Bludegard, for his part, had one horn in the middle of his forehead; his skin was now blue, and he was sporting an elegant shirt, vest, and cravat combination along with a long blue duster tied off a black belt, dark blue pants, and beige boots, both seemed to float in mid-air. 

Lastly, their more surprising feature was that they both had red and blue bat wings.

"A new form?" Pony Twilight asked in shock

"They look sort of like what your evil versions looked in the past, but they look...good?" Rarity looked at them with curious and almost lustful eyes before realizing what she said and shook her head. "I meant good good, not an evil kind of way, yeah like that!" She clarified quickly with color in her cheeks and looked at everyone to see if anyone noticed before looking at Sunset and the human Twilight.

"Wow, what just happened?" Bludegard looked at himself in shock before staring at his hand, which was starting to vibrate. " Is this what you meant by accepting others into your heart?"

The Prince chuckled at his reaction. "Think of it more like a sample of that. Tell me, how do you feel?"

He lowers his hand and closes his eyes. "I feel...I feel like I understand Twilight better now. And I'm ready to speak," He replied confidently and excitedly.

"Good, because that is exactly what we will do; just let your emotions do the talking, and your body will follow." The Prince instructed as they prepared once more.





Recovering from the shock, Mega Tempo launched copies of herself at the pair, only for Bludegard to reach for his katana and remain still as the clones approached. All were sliced to pieces once they came within range. Meanwhile, Blueblood raised his sword horizontally and took one swing through the air, creating a gust of wind that blew away almost all of the sand in the area, turning it into crystal before it disintegrated and bringing everything back to reality as well as unbalancing Tempo who launch another barrage of her lasers, forcing the twin Bluebloods on to the defensive as they dodged and teleported away from ground zero before lunging at her, only for Tempo to teleport herself trying to avoid their attacks and hit them with her magic.

"Why? Why do you insist on fighting? Don't you see I only want the best for you?" Tempo kept trying to convince them

"And who is gonna save you?" The Prince countered

"What?" Tempo was caught off guard by the question.

"Auntie, I never got to say it, but you are the greatest aunt ever. You raised me like your own son and taught me so much, and not a day goes by when I don't miss you. I love you, and while I couldn't save my version of you, I can at least save you. That is why we will rescue you, even if you need a bit of tough love," Bludegard joined in.

"No more excuses, no more denial. This time is for real." They both flew at top speed as she charged her horn, but at the last second, they dodged and flew down before flying upwards at her face. "Aunt Tempo!" They gathered their strength and clenched their fists

"Snap out of it!" With a simultaneous cry, they punched her right in the chin, igniting their fist with magic, catching her off guard as they rocketed upward. Tempo tried to resist and lower her chin, but the twins won the struggle and sent her flying, the impact flooding the sky with memories of the two, their adventures, and the promise they made once.

"What do you want to be when you grow up?" 
"What is your dream?" A voice echoed through the room as they both smiled and decided to respond, recalling clearly that question and how now they have an answer for it.

"I want to be someone big and strong, someone my aunt can be proud of." Bludegard answered confidently.

"My dream is to become an alicorn and sit on a throne with my family. "

"I know the path would be hard, painful, and downright scary, but I want to face it regardless because that is the type of stallion I am. We will keep moving forward until we reach our goals, so remember this about me. I'm Prince Blueblood! And I would become the stallion whose horn will pierce the stars!"

"I'm Bludegard the Third, and I would become the man that would reach the stars!"

They remain in the air as Tempo falls to the ground with enough force to cause a tremor, leaving the audience cold.

"One punch, they brought her down...with one PUNCH!" Human Rainbow yelled in disbelief.

Sonata and Nefi soon found their second wind and started to rise to their feet, trembling in excitement. "Well, after something like that, there is no way I can sit still."

"I told you, I won't let my friends face this alone." Then electricity and water appear over their forms, and they soon return to their magical forms to help in the battle.

"Oh, this is so awesome! Come on, girls, we can't let them have all the fun!" Pony Dash called out as the mane six nodded in equal excitement and agreement. Before rushing forward, Dash looked back at her human copy and smirked. "Try to keep up, rookie."

"What?" offended Human Dash glared at her counterpart's retreating form as the ponies went to assist.

"OK, that is it. No pony copy of me will beat me! Let go, girls. We need to show them how it is done." Dash rushed forward, and they all soon followed after her. Sunset and Starlight stay behind momentarily, looking at one another before shrugging and smiling before running in.

Recovering, Tempo glared at the twins before teleporting away when they almost struck her again, only to be tackled and bound to the ground by a giant lioness. Nefi shrank her body in mid-air before smirking.

Moments later, she becomes a flash of lightning that hits Tempo from all directions, lifting her back into the air until Tempo manages to summon a shield to protect her entire body. Sonata then appeared and started to fly around her, creating a water spout before she started to yell while swimming, creating a sonic wave that battered Tempo. The merged pegasus tried to fly free, launching lasers and shields everywhere, getting desperate as more and more assailants started to appear, the elements launching a blast of harmony while the mane six did their best to distract her.

Managing to block an attack and gain a moment of respite, Tempo calmed her breathing, then struck the ground, shattering it and levitating giant chunks of rubble into the air. Still, when she threw it, Bludegard made quick work of it and slashed it apart. At the same time, Blueblood rushed forward, summoning his magic, and struck out with an empowered sword slash that managed to catch her in the stomach, taking her breath away and bringing her down low again.

Bludegard followed up, summoning his magic to tie her to the ground by creating light chains that grabbed her wings.

This time, she was better prepared and summoned a shield of sand in time for when the twin Bluebloods extended their arms and launched all their magic in a concentrated series of blasts so strong Tempo couldn't divert her attention away in order to teleport and soon had to think fast, trying to move what little sand was available to form a shield, break the chains and make more copies of herself.

Regardless, the twin Bluebloods continued their assault and let their friends take care of the copies, bringing the place into complete chaos and despite all that, Tempo's anger gradually but constantly evaporated and was replaced with a sensation she had not felt in more than twenty years: adrenaline and excitement.

"I must...I must stop it, I know that, and yet I...I don't want to end this just yet. I...I want to play more and see what my nephew is really about. Oh, I want to show him my best moves." She started to realize, but something yanked her out of that line of thought.

"No," Dream finally spoke in irritation. "I finally found the perfect place to have some peace and quiet to sleep without worrying about whining creatures crying at me. I'm not going to give that up! Especially when that annoying heir is messing with me again!"


"Dream, wait, maybe they have a point. My nephew would never be fighting like this without any reason. Maybe we should..."


"I don't care what they want! I want to sleep! And if you don't do anything about it, I will."


Taking control, the sand shifted to Dream's form and stood up, making the two Bluebloods smirk. "There you are, kind of late to join the party, don't you think, Sandy?"

Their friends soon joined them in the sky. "Does that mean Tempo is out?" Sonata asked.

"That or Sandy here finally decided to do something... Good." Blueblood cracked his knuckles. "I have been meaning to show him what happens when you kidnap my family." He grinned eagerly at his friends. "What do you say? Let's go ruin the day of that overgrown chicken."

"Let me...sleep!" Dream yelled, summoning a sandstorm that caught them all off guard and eroded both Bluebloods' forms—noticing that Sonata circled them all and acted as a shield for them. "What's happening? How is he doing that?"

After restoring their armor a bit, Blueblood looked to the siren. "We are using something from his realm to boost our power. He's probably trying to take it back."

"Then leave the front line to us," Nefi commented, preparing another attack. "You focus on rescuing your aunts."

"Blueblood" Both Rainbow Dashes appear in their field of vision

"What?" The two reply. "Which one?" The Prince asked for clarification.

"Both, listen, we found the quicksand that's acting as the portal. The Twilights, Starlight, and Sunset think that if we use the elements and put all our magic there, we can beat him and save our worlds in one fell swoop, but you need to push him down."

"Use the elements on him while we drag him back to Equestria?" Blueblood thought out loud while mulling it over in his mind before looking at his friends. "I love it. That's my cousin for you, and I think we can arrange that, but we will have to time our moves just right, Blue. How good are you with that katana?"

The student smirked and lifted it. "I have won my fair share of tournaments and been itching to show off a bit."

"Good. Here is your chance once he is exposed, I need you to aim at the gems in his chest." He points at Dream. "Nefi, Sonny, ready to go home?"

They both smiled and nodded.

"Then just put him in place and make him trip. I will finish the job, and there will be a small window for you to make your move, Blud. So get ready."

"You just watch me. I'll leave you all slack-jawed and speechless," he boasted confidently before flying away to get into position. The Prince nodded and flew high into the sky to prepare, too.

Taking that as the signal. Nefi summoned and discharged a massive lighting bolt that blinded Dream, briefly ending his storm long enough for Sonata to rush forward and spin, bringing with her a deluge of water to Slam into Dream head-on.

Startled, blind, and off balance, Dream tried to do something, but charging all her power, Nefi catapulted herself forward and tackled him as they both battered and dragged him backward until he was inches from quicksand where all the girls had circled and had their elements at the ready, everyone put all their magic into the portal making it glow gold as a result.

"No! I don't want to go, you can't make me, I don't want to go!" He complained and was about to do something, lifting his talon in the air, yet his body froze as he reached out.

"Not so easy to fight with a numb body, right?” Sonata smirked, and between her and Nefi, they lifted him and flew upward, dumping him backward into the portal.

Sunset and her group flared their elements to life with magic and raised their hands into a Y formation, creating a rainbow-colored portal. The dream could only watch in horror at the display as he looked up and saw Blueblood charging his sword, which seemed to be increasing in size, taking on the appearance of a razor-edged shard of twinkling night sky.

-Connect with my sky, nephew, and become part of it. Let it flow into your body- Hearing Luna's voice helped the Prince relax as he lifted his sword and then launched down with his friend and battle companion. To those observing, It looked like he was dragging a piece of the night itself in the form of a giant sword that increased in size until it was the size of a small house.

In a desperate attempt, Dream made his eyes shine and lifted his wings, creating a series of astral shields for support, only to be halted when Bludegard made his move. Taking up his stance some distance away from the group, he channeled his magic into his katana. He waited for the exact moment to strike before blinking out of existence and back behind Dream, sheathing his blade in a practiced motion. Dream's body collapsed along the clean diagonal cut that split his body in two, taking along the gem on his chest, which soon also slid three as lesser, but no less devastating, cuts made themselves known, dividing them into three and releasing all mares contained within simultaneously.

Everyone powering the portal watched the display of power and skill with their jaws wide open while Bludegard smiled back at them and winked. 

The royal sisters open their eyes just in time to see Sonata and Nefi break apart Dream's shields, stopping short of shattering the final one, which Blueblood smashed through. The Prince's sword connected with Dream's face as they all fell forward and got swallowed by the portal. The Abyssinian princess managed to grab Tempo before they were entirely in. Blueblood's house-size sword then contracted, creating a gravitational pull that pulled Dream's sand into the hole and forced him to endure all of Blueblood's gathered magical power.

Immediately after, Luna woke up with a gasp in the middle of the room, with ponies sleeping everywhere and magic sand starting to disintegrate into dust.

Realizing what was happening, she got to work and immediately rushed to the window, putting the sky back in order as more ponies started to stir and wake up from their slumber.

In the meantime, as the dream realm broke down, and the portal continued to act as a black hole sucking and breaking down the palace, the other mares that were serving as Tempo proxies were released and brought to Equestria. Dream tries to conjure something, but with his lower half still reforming and a sword lodged in his face, he could not do anything.

"I...only wanted to sleep and forget," Dream lamented as the trio advanced their final attack through the portal. As they fall, flashes of Dream's memories pass by like shattered glass, showing the group images of a much younger Dream playing with Destiny, reading together, and even her helping him maintain order in the dream realm as if she were his big sister, ending with him crying his eyes out.

"You are also grieving," The Prince whispered in understanding before shaking his head and steeling his resolve.

"Sorry, Sandy, times up. You and everyone else need to wake up now!" The sword shines even brighter, and the elements reappear as Blueblood and his friends finally recover their original forms and finally reach Appleloosa, creating a pillar of rainbow light that vaporizes Dream and sends him back to his realm. The same pillar of light appeared in the human world as Bludegard used his power to teleport back and forth, pulling together his group before bringing all of them into a big group hug and, summoning all of his strength, teleported them right to the school's entrance, where he tossed them and himself right back into the school before they were accidentally sucked into Equestria. When they landed in the school, Bludegard lost his new devilish form and returned to his normal human form. Save for the blue gem in his hand that he drops. The stone is quickly sucked up and is the last item through the portal before it closes.

All the planets are engulfed in the light, and for a brief moment, there is only white, but when the light fades, everything has returned to normal. Prince Blueblood finds himself lying in the middle of a dune beside his exhausted and unconscious friends and staring at the clear night sky. All around him were mares emerging from pony-shaped sand dunes with a gasp.

Meanwhile, Bludegard was about to fall asleep as students and the principals gathered around the group. "Is everyone alright? What exactly happened?" Celestia asked Sunset in barely contained fear as everyone helped the group to stand up.

"Wait... Bludegard, is that Yamato?!" Luna questioned in rage, pointing at the sword next to her nephew.

"Yes, yes, it is." Bludegard smiled and chuckled lightly before passing out from exhaustion.
> After The Sandstorm Part 1 Of 3 (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stirring from his sleep, Blueblood slowly woke to the sounds of hooves moving everywhere and muffled noises that soon became fragments of words and then into complete sentences of command—his aunt Luna's commands, who seemed to be close by.

Opening his eyes, he realized he was lying in a bed with a strange diamond floating above him, emitting a dim blue glow that increased and decreased periodically; next to him were a series of empty beds and something else that quickly caught his attention. Beside him, he beheld none other than his aunt Tempo. She floated languidly within a medical tank filled with pungent green liquid and connected to an array of medical machines. Her body was bloated, her eye sockets were noticeably empty, and a gaping wound was cut into her back.

Shocked, Blueblood sat bolt upright and cried out in surprise and horror, "Aunt Tempo!"

"What?!" The mare in question responded, equally startled and scared by the sudden commotion. She quickly entered the room and rushed toward the Prince as he jumped and looked back at her. This was the version of Tempo that he was familiar with, slim with particular longwings and seemingly in the prime of her life. She jumped onto the side of his bed and started inspecting his face. "What is it, Sweetie? Did you have a bad dream? Are you hurt somewhere?"

"Aunt...Tempo? Is this...why are there...?" He glanced back at the fleshy body and the recognizable Tempo a couple of times until she realized what was happening and let go of his face.

"Oh! Right, right. I see what happened; some moron forgot to pull the curtain again after they were done." She remarked with a roll of her eyes while letting go of the Prince's face, then walked to the side of the tank to pull a curtain to hide it from view.

"They are much better; sorry for the scare, dear. Princess Luna told me there wasn't anywhere else to put it at the moment. " She apologized with a slight blush of embarrassment on her face.

"What IS that?" Blueblood asked again, pointing at the curtain.

Tempo could only shrug in response. "Your guess is as good as mine, I suppose, not even I'm sure. When I woke up, that thing was lying a couple of feet away from me, with a gaping hole on its back and some weird red goo trailing from it toward me; according to Princess Luna and the rescue party she was leading, I was covered head to hoof on that same slime." She shivered at the memory,

"By the stars, just thinking about it makes me want to barf. I had only just realized what was happening when we stumbled onto you and your friends lying unconscious on the sand." She then pointed at the diamond still floating above Blueblood.

"And you, in particular, were on the verge of completely exhausting all of your magic, which is why you were placed under an induced coma spell and let that crystal, It's called lumus, by the way, restore your mana, mister."

"Coma!? How long were you going to keep me out..."

" For as much time as you need, and we will put you back under if you ever dare do something that stupid again, mister!" She warned him with a stern face, "I'm so grateful that you saved us, but you pushed yourself and your body too hard, and it's a miracle you didn't suffer any irreparable damage, but until you have all your magic back and are fully recover, that crystal stays with you, and that is final."

She answered before the Prince could ever ask or protest, not wanting to make things worse for his case.

Looking down at his sheets, he looked back at her. "And what about you? Are you feeling fine?"

She smiled and nodded. "I feel like I could fly a marathon all over Equss. The doctors gave me a full check-up and physical, trying and failing to understand what happened to me," She announced with pride, extending her wings while pointing at herself with a big grin. "According to them, medically speaking, I turn back the clock, and I'm in my thirties again!! This is how I used to look before...before HE turned me into his plaything." She confessed, her mood soured with venom dripping from her words as she looked back to the curtain-concealed blob again for a few seconds before returning to Blueblood with a big grin again.

"Nopony has no idea what happened, but. I'm sure not complaining!"

Remembering his battle's conclusion, Blueblood's eyes widened, "The elements!"

"Hmm? What was that, Sweetie?" Tempo asked, tilting her head and raising an eyebrow for clarification.

"The elements are probably the cause. Like what happened to Aunt Luna when she was Nightmare Moon just..." he waved his hooves at the blob "...different. Their use alone would purify you, but then you must remember how and factor in where it happened. Plus, you were technically blasted with two sets of elements and..."

Tempo stopped him by putting her hooves on his shoulders. "Sweetie, Sweetie, relax. No need for you to analyze a miracle; let's just be thankful it happened and move on."

He stopped and nodded before gesturing in the carcass's direction again. "Speaking of moving on, why are you preserving that thing?"

She sighed and rolled her eyes. "It was Princess Luna's idea. Since the corpse is virtually a blueprint of everything that the bastard of Sharp Shot did to me, the princess insisted on keeping it and studying it as evidence for his trial. That's why the tank and the cables. That was the only reason I agree with that idea...barely. Seriously, snowflake, if it's unnerving to you, imagine how I'm feeling, " She joked with a smirk.

He smiled and nodded. "Jokes aside, I'm just glad the nightmare is over, and we are all together at long last, thanks to you, my sweet little hero." She cooed and brought him into a hug, which he accepted.

"And I would gladly do it again, too. You know how all my aunts can count on me...Aunties!" Now that he is more calm, Blueblood can finally realize. "Are they okay? Where is Aunt Celestia? Is she with Aunt Luna?"

"Calm down, snowflake; there will be time for all that later." Her expression turns somber. "There is plenty to discuss when the time is right."

"Is something wrong?"

She shakes her head. "Not right now. It would be best if you went to see your friends, though; they are in the saloon nearby, and Sonata told me to send you a message. Something about a cellphone you still need to return?"

His eyes widened in realization. "The cellphone!" He then looked around in desperation.

"Oh, that is what that was called then; I must say that is a particularly unusual device right there; better take it back before that cat gets a bit too curious and decides to break it apart to see how it works." Tempo joked as the Prince nodded.

"By the way, did she take everything else on me?"

Tempo shook her head. "No, the princess took your swords and a strange red gem you had. She wanted to keep them safe, considering how the power of the elements was inside them. Don't worry, you can have them back later; for now, let's focus on that cell phone first, okay?"

"Okay." Blueblood tried to stand and leave the bed but found that he was still very weak as his legs nearly gave out beneath him. They would have if not for Tempo intervening and helping him by letting him lean on her as they exited the room.

"Allow me."

"I'm fine, auntie, just a bit dizzy that..."

"...I wasn't asking," she stated, her tone brooked no argument, making Blueblood sigh in defeat and accept his fate.

As they walk back to the town, the guards that notice them stop briefly to bow or greet them respectfully before going back to their duties; not only that, but some citizens and even soldiers from the Abyssinian empire seemed to be showing more respect than usual, that soon started to confuse the Prince as he slowly leaned further towards his aunt.

"Aunt Tempo, is it me, or is everyone being more respectful toward us?"

"I would say it is more directed at you, snowflake; that kind of thing tends to happen when you save the world," She replied with a roll of her eyes.

"Saved the world? I suppose from a certain perspective and with two planets held hostage..." The realization soon dawned on him: "Yep, we kind of did just that, but to be honest, it was more of a team effort."

That made Tempo laugh and shake his head. "Oh, just take the compliment, sweetie. You saved everyone, and they are more than thankful for it. You should get used to it; I bet there will be even more ponies bowing to you in the future."

"Something tells me it's gonna get old pretty fast, too." He replied with a tired sigh.

"Probably, but let them have it; you earned it fair and square, and it's the least of what's to be expected; don't worry, it could also pass by. It did with Twilight and her friends, after all, right?"

"True." Blueblood nodded a couple of times before looking around, still slightly uncomfortable with how low some ponies were lowering their heads; he could swear one even planted his entire body into the ground. "I hope that is the case."

Soon, the two arrived at the saloon, where they found Nefi surrounded by ponies and a couple of her guards telling the story of how they defeated Dream.

"...So there we were, in the middle of a floating island, with Blue and his copy on the verge of a mental collapse while a giant sand alicorn was preparing to destroy everything we hold dear." The Abyssinian princess regaled with theatrical and exaggerated movements to amuse the children in the audience, who were the second most interested in hearing the story. Pinkie had to take first place as she lay on the floor in the middle of the children, even allowing one to climb on top of her head so he could hear the tale too.

"We barely escaped the monster; our plan had failed, and we were running out of options, so I did what only I could do."

"Oh! What?" Pinkie asked, leaning forward with the kids while the Prince smiled and listened with interest from the back of the audience.

"I step into action! Grab Blueblood by the shoulder and tell him, listen, I know you want to cry. I know you are scared, but we are the Prince and Princess of our kingdoms. We are their future and salvation; we may have lost this battle, but the war is far from over, and I deliver a kiss for good measure."

The kids in the audience gag, but Blueblood can't help but laugh at the embellished story.

"Never underestimate the female charm everyone, and even less so after today, because that did the trick. I single-handedly managed to snap him back into action. The elements probably heard me too because the next thing I knew, I was this huge yet still sexy lioness made of electricity ready to fight for all of you against Dream, so I sprung into action and started bashing at the beast over and over as I was light itself until it was on the ropes. Then, with my companions, we managed to save everyone in one single hit!"

She finished as the audience remained quiet until Blueblood decided to speak up. "Three cheers for Princess Nefertiti, who saved us all!" He started stomping the ground, and soon, the rest followed as they cheered up and celebrated, the princess muttering a 'thank you' in his direction as he winked.

"Bluey!" Pinkie didn't waste any time and tackled him to the ground before nuzzling his cheek. "You are awake! Or you are sleepwalking, are you sleepwalking? quick, tell me, how many hoofs am I holding up?" She asks in rapid-fire succession as the Prince laughs and the two stand up; Tempo quickly stands up while glaring at the party mare.

"That is not how it works, Pinkie, and yeah, I'm awake; I hope I didn't miss much." He then brought her into a soft hug. "I missed you; sorry you couldn't have the chance to play with our mega secret weapon."

Her eyes were wide in realization. "I remember I attacked you and almost made you into a stone, Bluey; I'm so, so, so sorry. I didn't know what was happening; I was looking for my copy one moment. Next, I only wanted to have this amazing party, and you were being mean, not letting me and I...I!"

"Hey, hey!" Blueblood stopped her cold with a kiss on her cheek. "No hard feelings, Pinkie, it was Dream; the guy is as strong as Discord, and if he can mess with your pretty little head, so can his brother. I'm just glad you and everyone else are okay. No party can be complete without you!"

"Ah y-yeah, oh you I....eh hehe. Je, je aw...I need to go for Dashwaitherebye!" Pinkie quickly excused herself while walking backward with a blush before running away, Tempo smirking as she slowly turned to look at him.

"So, nephew, is there something you want to tell me too?"

"Oh, believe me, complicated doesn't begin to describe it. Whatever this is, we decided to put a pin in it until everything has settled down." Blueblood replied with a roll of his eyes as they approached Nefertiti.

"Aha, that is good, but it's still not an answer." Tempo mentioned with a smirk, making him laugh.

"Let's just say Dream wasn't the only one messing with everyone's heads. I will explain later after we talk with everyone."

"Fair enough, but you better do; we still have plenty to catch up on," Tempo concluded, and the Prince nodded.

"Blue," Nefi called for him, and the two shared a much softer hug before she broke it apart and smirked at him. "At long last, the hero awakes from his nap." The princess replied sarcastically before pointing at the crystal, "Seeing though you have your satellite and Tempo is glued to your side, I assume you already got your well-deserved earful?" She asked with a stern face and crossed arms.

Smiling sheepishly, Blueblood could only blush and look away. "Yeah, I might have overdone it a bit, but things just keep piling on, and a lot was riding on this. Nefi, I just...If I didn't devote my full attention to this, I couldn't help but think I would be lazy and insulting everyone who was counting on us."

The princess only sighed and shook her head. "Oh, Blue, you need to relax too. I could spend hours lecturing you on how stupid you were keeping up that act of being fine, but I bet Princess Luna will do that for me."

At that comment, the Prince's body went stiff in realization as Nefi only grinned toothily at the reaction. "You forgot about that, didn't you?"

"Yeahhh...and my aunt Celly," He replied, panicking at the thought of the kind of scolding coming his way.

"Oh well, you'll cross that bridge when you get there. You did save all of us, so I bet they will go easy on you," Nefi offered, bringing him to her with one arm. "For now, we need to get you up to speed with everything that has been going on, and you can be sure that there is a lot to discuss, which reminds me." The princess took out her phone and handed it over; she pointed to an earpiece fused to the upper left part and a small crystal embedded in the middle of its back.

"The mutt found a way to make it work by combining it with our earpiece; you can call Sunset; in fact, you should call her right now; last we spoke, she sounded livid, and let's say...she found out about our little adventure on the mall."

"What do you...? oh!" He slowly nodded, realizing what she meant, and resolved to call her. "Yeah, I should."

"Mmhmm," Nefi nodded before pointing behind her. "You do that while I go fetch Sonata and Rainbow Dash. The two have been constantly racing since things calmed down in the city, and they would love to talk with you. Especially Sonata." Nefi mentioned with a laugh before excusing herself.

The Prince nodded and pressed the cell phone to his ear as it rang, and soon Twilight answered.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Twilight, it's me, the Prince Blueblood."

"Blueblood! Oh, thank god you are okay; when Nefi told us you need to rest for a few days, we feared the worst would happen until they explained why."

Days!? Oh, right, right, the spell... god. I hope it was a short time.

"Yeah, I was a bit impulsive during the fight; sorry to make you worry."

"It's ok; I know a thing or two about being impulsive, and well, as much as I want to talk. Sunset needs to speak with you."

"Yeah, I figured. Is she with you?"

"Yep, one moment."

After a moment of silence, Blueblood heard the voice of Sunset.

"Blueblood, we need to talk," She says without hiding her irritation. "I have been informed of how in the mall near the school, there were strange signs in various stores saying -I grabbed this or that, please get in touch with Sunset Shimmer to discuss payment- and my phone number. Care to explain?!"

"Right, Sunset, we needed a medium to use magic in your world. Plus, we were hungry at some point, and I didn't want to steal anything, so I put those IOUs. Just pass me the bill, and I will pay you back."

"What do you mean, to just pass you the bill?! Blueblood, you went around looting!" Sunset angrily mentions, "And now you expect me to just what? Pay everything up and pretend you didn't do anything wrong?

"Yes. I made a tactical decision; I'm aware my actions were wrong, but they were necessary, which I'm now taking full responsibility for, and I ask you to please understand and help me out this one time.

"Blueblood, I'm not gonna pay for you going around stealing," She says with finality. "You better come here and fix this, mister," She ordered, making the prince sigh and lose his patience.

"Please, Sunset, we are all friends here. Don't make me play this card; I hoped we could negotiate this peacefully without resorting to the blame game."

"What game? Blueblood, you have nothing to stand on. You are not weaseling out of this one, mister!" she remarked, getting angry as the Prince remained quiet, waiting if she had anything else to say, having reached the end of his patience.

Okay, Sunset, you asked for it.

"Sunset...you know that I'm still technically the ruling authority of Equestria, correct?"

"So?"

"So, as the ruler, I could easily decide to consider how you never faced justice for everything you have. My aunt and cousin decided to look the other way, pretending everything was fine. Shall I list them off? Theft from the crown attempted terrorism, assault of a member of the royal family, possession and knowledge of illegal magics that shouldn't be in that world in the first place, and is currently affecting your world in a series of unpredictable and often dangerous ways. Do you want me to go on?"

Sunset remained quiet, and the Prince had a good idea of why it was. "Now, if you want me to face the consequences for my actions, fine, I am ready to do just that, but don't forget I can also bring up how a certain STUDENT broke the law several times in return. So what do you say? We can both atone for our mistakes and put EVERYTHING back to what it should be and follow the letter of the law. Or will you do me this one favor and go our separate ways as friends with an understanding? Your choice."

"...so when can you pay me back?" Sunset asks with a nervous chuckle

"As soon as things get back to normal in Equestria, I promise." He said with a sigh. "And Sunset? As your friend, please don't make me play this card again; I hate being the bad guy pointing fingers. You were never my enemy, and the last thing I want is for us to have bad blood between us."

"It...I know something about making mistakes, like underestimating you back then. Mayor Sombra and Principal Celestia gave us a whole speech about it." She said with a sigh of her own.

Wait, Mayor Sombra? Is he like the equivalent...? There has to be a better time to start playing 'Who is who in which world.'

The Prince shook his head before continuing, "I promise. I will discuss the deal with Twilight, but you will get your money back in a week at the most." Blueblood answered cheerfully.

Sunset sighed, and Blueblood could practically feel her pinching her nose and shaking her head. "I will take your word for it. And again, sorry for this. I got pretty worked up when you got your little escape."

"To be fair, I should have told you earlier. You shouldn't worry, though. You know now that I am very particular about keeping my promises and despise leaving things incomplete."

"Yeah, that's true, Blueblood. A lot is happening here, and we are still cleaning up the mess. Dream is gone. Is the same happening on your end?

"I have been informed yeah, but something tells me things will need to be put back in order. Starting with returning the elements to Twilight and her friends. The moment I can, I will send you the money and the cell phone; thanks for your help, Sunset."

"No, Blueblood, thank you for saving us; you were a hero back then. Thanks... and I'm sorry for how we treated you."

"Water under the bridge, I'll talk more later; take care, Sunny,"

"Sunny?" She repeated, confused, but before she could ask anything else, Blueblood hung on with a chuckle

God, I needed to get that out of my system

Shaking his head, he looked at his aunt with a smile as he levitated the cell phone with his magic.

"So everything is fine?" Tempo asked with a tilted head.

"As fine as things could be considering everything that has happened, but it seems things are slowly returning to normal here."

"Good, I..." She stopped herself before looking down. "I was too afraid to ask if everything was okay there. Everyone has been so careful and understanding with me ever since, and I'm thankful to them for doing so, but the guilt of what I did is..."

The Prince stopped her by placing his head underneath her neck and nuzzling her face with a hug. "I know it's hard now, but we can take it one step at a time, Auntie. And I will always be there for you. I'm just glad to have you back, and this time, I know that it is my real auntie."

The pegasus sniffed and held back tears as she returned the gesture. "My sweet, beautiful snowflake, have I ever told you how much you remind me of your mom?"

He chuckled and started to tear up a little. "Not yet, but nothing would make me happier than to hear more about her and Dad."

"Of course! I will not leave a single detail." They both shared a moment until a loud thud outside the establishment startled the two and bounced them two feet off the floor alongside everything else not nailed to the ground.

Once they were on the floor again, they only blinked and broke the hug to look at the entrance, where something big was blocking the sunlight from the adjacent windows.

"~Oh, Blueblood, somebody wants to see you~" Nefi sang from the entrance, making both ponies look at each other before chuckling and shaking their heads.

"Never a dull moment in our lives, right?"

"Trust me, snowflake, after twenty-five years of nothing but dullness, you begin to crave excitement." Tempo replied as they left the room to meet the rest of their friends.
> After The Sandstorm Part 2 Of 3 (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Exiting the saloon, the prince was left speechless once his eyes saw Sonata and Nefi, both showing their tiny new changes.

Keeping the gift he gave her, the Abyssinian could still run as fast as lightning and now sported black lines all over her body that resembled lightning bolts that glowed yellow when her powers were activated. They gave her an exotic appearance and made her look like a liger, not that she seemed to mind much as Nefy was currently racing Rainbow Dash around Sonata as the two laughed.

The Siren herself had the most noticeable change of the two as she seemed to have reverted to her siren form, but it wasn't quite the same as the one described in the history books and stories Blueblood remembered her by. She still had the equine head and fins, but rather than an equine-like torso, said Siren resembled the humanoid version of her previous form, with gills running down her ribs leading to a toned stomach, fins acting as her ears, mane and feathering along her arms and hands, all that combined with her towering height, standing eleven or even twelve feet tall and using a seashell as a bikini that thankfully was big enough to cover her new assets.

Like Nefi, she didn't seem to mind her change as she laughed, trying to keep track of the two racers running circles around her enlarged frame.

Before Blueblood could say anything, Nefi appeared in front of him with a big grin on her face and still discharging occasionally. "Ta-Da! Go ahead, Bluey, drink it in. We are quite the pieces of eye candy now, aren't we?"

"Nefi? Sonata? What? The elements! Oh god! I did this to you?"

"Yes, and we couldn't thank you enough!" Nefi replied immediately as she hugged him and brought him closer to Sonata so she could pick them both up into a group hug. Dash flew close by with a smirk.

"Blueblood! I'm so happy you are awake; there's so much I need to tell you." Sonata said in her usual cheerful tone. "But first of all, check it out. Do you like it? I'm finally in my own skin!"

For his part, the prince just stayed quiet as he was sandwiched by the two of them. "Why do you feel wet?" He finally asked, looking at Sonata.

"Sirens are naturally moist; does it bother you?" She asked with concern.

"Not really, it feels kind of nice, like being hugged and moisturized simultaneously." He admitted pleasantly before shaking his head. "No, wait, that is not what I needed to say. I mean, girls, look at you! You spent less than two days with me, and I turned you..."

"...Awesome?" Dash finished for him with a smile. "Yeah, I agree there. I have to hand it to you, Blue; when you work with the elements, you know how to make things cool. I could've made it even cooler, of course, but you are a close second." Dash remarked with a smirk.

"So you two are okay being like this? Nefi, you have stripes now!" Blueblood remembered those, and he looked at the Abyssian in shock.

"Hey! First, they only appear on command, see? Stripes, no stripes." She demonstrated hiding and then revealing said features several times. "Second, my grandpa was a white tiger, which is where my vibrant white fur comes from, so for all we know, you only unlock some dormant family trait, and finally, don't lie Bluey! We both know I can rock this look." she said as Sonata put them down and immediately started posing for him with the stripes.

"Okay, I admit you look nice as a liger, and wow, your grandpa was a tiger? Cool, I wouldn't have, though... no, wait! We are getting off-topic," The prince admitted in defeat, not having a counter for that, before shaking his head, trying to get the conversation back on track, though Nefi was certainly not helping by winking and blowing a kiss at him. "The important thing is, you are okay with the change, correct?"

"You would not get any arguments from me." Nefi reply as Sonata only nods in agreement

"Good, I didn't even know what your family is gonna say; oh, that will be an awkward chat." He then turned to Sonata. "And what about you, Sonata? Aren't you even a little bit mad at me? Your upper body I...there are...you now have..." The prince fought to find the right words without being perverse and avert his eyes from her chest.

"...Human arms?" She finished with a raised eyebrow as the prince nodded silently, feeling ashamed for mutating her. "Yeah, it was quite scary at first, not to mention I'm sure I'm taller now." She raised one arm and wiggled her fingers before looking at him again. "But hey, after spending years in the other Equestria, you kind of get used to them; they're practical, and I can still do pretty much all the same things as I did before, so it's kind of an upgrade in my book, no hard feelings here."

"So...you are not mad at me for accidentally transforming your body?"

"Of course not! Blue, we are friends; I consider it a gift," She assured him, causing the prince to sigh in relief. Sonata smiled calmly and leaned down, extending her hand. "Plus, this means I can hold tacos more easily! We all win here!"

The prince chuckled momentarily before sighing in relief and defeat at her cheerful demeanor. "It would also help with bigger tacos, too."

"I know, right?!" Pinkie exclaimed, appearing on top of Sonata's head, "Imagine the size of the taco she could hold now; it would easily be the size of me!" She demonstrated by landing in Sonata's hand; this was quickly followed by the giant Sirin letting her go due to how big she was.

Pinkie fell flat before the prince while giggling and then looked up at Blueblood. "See Bluey? We are all happy, so there is no need to be all frowny face, mister. It's time for a party!"

"Once we put things back in order," Dash reminded her friend before she could try anything.

"Right, right, but it's a party right after." Pinkie agreed to the compromise, pointing at Blueblood and Rainbow Dash, who smiled and rolled her eyes at the party mares' antics. "Yeah, Pinkie, we can have a party once we sort this whole mess."

"Speaking of which," Nefi spoke up. "We should move things along and fill him in on everything that has happened while he was out."

The others agreed. "Princess Luna also wants to see you." Tempo reminded the group. "So why don't we tell you everything while we see her? She is at the stadium organizing the troops while everyone settles down."

The prince nodded, and soon, the group started heading to the stadium. Dash tried to save time by explaining while flying next to the prince. "First things first. I know you are going to ask, so let me stop you. The girls and I are all fine; we woke up soon after we kicked Dream's flank for good and got to work on cleaning up the mess as fast as we could." She said confidently before looking away in sorrow. "Listen, dude, what happened back then in the dream I..."

"It's okay, Dash, seriously. You and Pinkie were under the influence of Dream. I don't blame you; letting go of a cozy dream is difficult."

"Even so, I need to say sorry, dude, for what we did. Almost turning you into a lawn ornament is so not cool." She insisted, flying ahead of him in pity. "Would you forgive...?"

"...apology accepted, you and Pinkie are forgiven." He didn't let her finish and accepted their apology. The party planner sighed in relief before sweeping away some imaginary sweat on her forehead.

"Thanks, Celestia, thank you, Bluey, you are the best." Pinkie whispered, nuzzling his side, making him chuckle.

"don't mention it."

"Wait? Seriously? That fast?" Dash asked in disbelief, causing the prince to smirk.

"Huh, who would have thought? Equestria's fastest speedster and daredevil tells me I'm going too fast. Now, that is something you don't hear every day." Blueblood and the rest of the group laugh at the light joke and the mood improved further as Dash soon joins in.

"Okay, you got me there, but I'm still going to make it up to you, dude. You saved all of our flanks and deserve at least a medal for that."

"We will discuss that later,” Tempo said with a big grin. “Right now, the important thing is that all the mane six are okay and helping out as much as possible."

"Yeah, Applejack, Twilight, and Rarity went to the Crystal Empire to help Fluttershy once everyone settled in Las Pegasus. Pinkie and I are heading there soon, too; we just wanted to ensure you were okay first."

"Fluttershy is in trouble?!" He questioned in a sudden panic, almost tripping over his hooves until Tempo and Dash stopped and calmed him down.

"We don't know, relax, and she is probably okay, but yeah." She rubbed her head in concern. There is the issue of her appearing in the Dream. She might have gotten caught, but then again, neither Cadence nor Penny appeared, and you saved us, so she is probably okay. However, ever since your return, we haven't heard anything from the Crystal Empire, and the weed is still present, but at least it stopped growing, meaning they are doing something up there, but we need to go and assist and do so quickly."

"Us and our new friends." Pinkie added, looking at Nefi. "All of us, right Nefi?"

"What?" Blueblood looked at Nefi, who smirked and nodded. "Exactly, the royal's heirs aren't done helping."

"It is still surprising you made a club and decided to lend a hoof, too. The Society of Heirs or something, was it?" Dash remarked while tapping her hoof, trying to recall their name, before smirking. "You just couldn't help yourself and copy us, right, Blue?"

Before he could reply, Nefi laughed, "I don't know, considering we saved you from a monster as strong as Discord for our first mission. I'd say we might be getting better than you."

"Ha! You wish! We had already dealt with at least five threats ourselves, and you needed help on your first one. That was cool, but they still are pretty much rookies." Dash countered.

"Let's see how long that lasts when we have to bail you out again." Nefi ribbed back confidently as Blueblood had to get between the two to stop things from escalating.

"Okay, can someone explain to me what is going on?" He turned to the princess, "Nefi, what about your family's kingdom? What of everyone's kingdoms? They must be worried sick by now."

"Way ahead of you, Blue," Nefi confidently responded. "We already sent letters to our parents explaining everything, including our plans and reasonings; no idea how everyone else went, but I can tell you this: The alliance is holding strong, and we are all going to help the Crystal Empire. Additionally, in my case, Dad nearly had a conniption and demanded that I return immediately before I explained how this is a global issue. Our treaty with the Crystal Empire compels me to help since I signed into an alliance with all of you. Which is why they sent reinforcements to babysit me and will tag along on our little trip to the Crystal Empire with the rest." Nefi explained while gesturing at the extra guards.

She then snickers at the memory. "Of course, Daddy wasn't exactly happy about the idea of her precious pawn taking a more proactive stance, and I'll be so grounded once this is over, but to heck with it. It was worth it if it meant twisting his arm and teaching him that he can't control any of us." She exclaimed in confidence before putting her paw on the prince's back. "So yeah, I'm going, once I am done filling you in and ensuring you will be safe. But don't worry, I still plan on giving you a proper goodbye later." She ended, poking his nose as they continued on.

"And it's not like we are leaving you alone either, Blue; Tempo and I will keep you company until you recover fully." Sonata decided to resume the conversation. "As you may imagine, all of Equss is a bit startled about what happened, and the rulers are doing everything they can to keep everyone calm as we get past the worst part...including the part of you kinda, sort of, almost did an act of treason." She mumbled out the last part.

"I'm sorry, what was the last part?"

"Not important!" Dash quickly flew in front of him with a nervous chuckle, "The important thing is that you are okay, recovering, being filled in, and hey, my mare got hold of the rest of the team, so you can be sure the Wonderbolts would keep everyone safe too."

"O...k? So what am I supposed to be doing then? I'm supposed to help all the rulers get their kingdom under control for the time being?" Blueblood ask perplexed

"Nope, you've done more than enough and proven yourself, snowflake," Tempo answered immediately. "But you also have proven yourself to be stubborn and ignored your own well-being, so until you are given a clean bill of health again, you are officially prohibited from doing anything other than resting and healing." She said with finality, stomping the floor to mark her point.

The prince wanted to protest, but he paused as he glanced at everyone, causing him to reevaluate things and ultimately sigh in defeat.

"I understand," He finally replied.

"Wait? you are not going to complain or anything?" Dash asked, blinking a couple of times.

"Don't get me wrong. Nothing would make me happier than to go with you and to help, but, well. It is hard to argue with a crystal floating over my head, and I can barely even stand up without help. You are right. I would be death weight right now." He then pointed at Dash with a severe expression.

"But don't start thinking I'm out of the game, though. Once I'm fully healed, I will be returning, so you save my cousin Pink and tell her that Blue says hi."

That improved the mood as the mares chuckled; Pinkie lightly hit his free shoulder. "Of course, we will be waiting for you, Bluey; I don't want to miss the moment when your horn pierces the heavens." She smirked, causing Blueblood to blush and the mares to laugh again momentarily before their laugh died down a little.

"Bluey, if you promise not to do anything, and you understand why we are doing this, there is something else you should know," Nefi mentioned with a sorrowful tune. "It's about your aunt Celestia."

Everyone suddenly got quiet and looked down, scaring the prince.

"What? What happened? What happened to Aunt Celly?" He asked, not noticing they had arrived at the stadium entrance.

"She is missing," A new voice answered, and looking ahead, the prince was met by none other than Princess Luna, who slowly marched toward him with a neutral expression.

"Aunt Luna?" Blueblood barely speaks. "W-what do you mean she is missing? She was at the spa with Aunt Tempo, right? She was trapped there, too; I saw her with you in the crystal; she has to be there. Where else could she possibly...?"

The prince kept asking questions as Luna kept advancing until she surprised him by using her magic, levitating, and bringing Blueblood towards her. Before he could react, the prince was silenced as Luna enveloped him in a firm hug, using her wings to surround him and nuzzling his side.

"Don’t misunderstand my actions nephew, there is one huge earful coming your way still, but for now, just let me hold you; there will be time for that later; for now, I don't want to sour the mood, so let me embrace you, my sweet, brave nephew."

Blueblood relaxed and then returned the gesture while closing his eyes. "I missed you too, Auntie. And I'm glad to see you are okay."

Once they had their moment, Luna let him go and helped him the rest of the way inside the stadium, where he got a dreadful shock when he discovered his swords cracked and chipped, lying crossed on the table.

"Hengroen! Llamrei!" Blueblood called out as he extended a free hoof to them. Luna, however, prevented him from advancing and closed her eyes in sorrow momentarily before looking at Blueblood.

"I'm so sorry, nephew; I know how much those swords made for you, but carrying the full force of the elements, my night, and your magic." She paused as the prince stopped and looked at her. "There is only so much you can ask from your tools before they reach their breaking point; for what it's worth, the fact they endured for so long and with so much power is worth commending; whoever made them could easily be the greatest blacksmith in all of Equss."

She smiled calmly and put her wing over his back. "And even if they will never be quite the same again, I will give them to the best black and bladesmiths Equestria can offer to restore some of their glory."

"I...thanks, auntie, that means a lot to me." Blueblood nodded in understanding and sighed in sorrow. "God, Discord is gonna kill me." He mumbled to himself and shook his head as he carefully let go of Luna and slowly approached the swords with trembling hooves. Supporting himself on the table and then passed the frog of his right hoof on the surface of their metal with his eyes closed; even when damaged, he could still feel the low humming sound and warm feeling of security whenever he held them.

You helped me overcome some of my most complex trials. For that, I couldn't thank you enough. Now rest; we both need time to heal.

"Before we discuss the most pressing matters at hoof, you should see one last item, nephew." Luna called, and opening his eyes, Blueblood saw his aunts and the other girls entering the room, all of them looking at him remorsefully. Even Pinkie said nothing other than to approach and hug him, knowing how sad he was about his weapons being damaged.

Slightly startled, he felt a hand on his back, and looking to his right, he saw Sonata extending her arm to console him while waiting outside the stadium.

Starting to feel better, he cleaned his eyes and looked at Luna. "What is it, Auntie?"

With a nod, she called for one of the guards, who nodded and opened a concealed door. Inside, an intense red glow came from a crystal box, making the guard squint his eyes as he levitated it with his magic and then passed it to Luna, who took it on her own and walked toward him.

"When we found you and your friends on a dune, this unusual red crystal was close to your body. At first, we didn't think much of it, but when one of my soldiers tried to hold it with her hoof, they were assaulted with terrible waking nightmares, which is why we needed to... STOP!" Luna called in alarm as the prince, mesmerized by the crystal, whose glow had dimmed somewhat in the prince's presence, absently approached and reached out to touch it. Sonata and Pinkie tried to stop him, but the light got more powerful and focused, making it hard for them to see.

Before they could do anything more, he had already touched the box, and everyone found themselves standing on a grassy, starlit field. The gem had now turned into the demonic human Sunset as she held Blueblood's hoof with curiosity while everyone looked around in shock and confusion.

"It's you," Blueblood whispered as the spirit seemed lost and scared, making Blueblood smile excitedly. "I can't believe it. You made the jump too, but it was different in your case, like it..." He stops to look back at her more calmly.

"I see; you didn't expect this to happen either; that is why you got startled and started scaring everyone that touched you; you need something familiar to calm down; you needed to see me again, am I right?" Sunset only nodded a couple of times in shame and lowered her head.

"Oh, Sunny, scaring others was wrong; they could have helped you, but that's okay, I understand; you are safe now."

She lifts her head and nods again, starting to approach the prince. Nobody dared to do anything, but Luna, Tempo, and Dash were getting ready to strike if the spirit tried anything.

"You will have to apologize to those you scared later, but for now, let's help you out, starting with giving you a little improvement." Blueblood moved some of her hair with a knowing smile, placing his hoof on her face. "Close your eyes."

She does as instructed, and he uses some magic to make his hoof glow. Moments later, he puts his hoof away from her. "You can open them now." she did, and soon the monster discovered that she no longer had teeth for eyes. She looked at her hands in surprise and then happiness before hugging Blueblood.

He laughed and returned the hug. "You're welcome; listen, I won't force you to stay here if you don't want to, but if you do, you can consider this little realm of mine your new home; sound good?" He offered, and Luna was startled slightly when a Nightmare Moon copy landed beside her, smiling lightly at her.

The demon nodded once before ending the illusion as Blueblood was now hugging the red gem that only glowed lightly. Feeling refreshed, Blueblood looks at everyone with a serene smile. "Don't worry, everyone; everything is okay now."

"Blueblood, what did you...what just happened?" Luna asked, still perplexed about what she saw

"One thing at a time. I'm still processing it myself, but I think I have an idea, and I will explain afterward, I promise." Before he looked at her somberly. "For now, please. Tell me, what happened to Aunt Celly?"
> After The Sandstorm Part 3 Of 3 (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

During the Events with Scarlet Lips At the Golden Mirage

Making their way through the sea of feathers and sand, a squad of 5 ponies wearing containment suits made their way toward Tempo, who occasionally glanced at them before groaning in irritation.

"Ms. Tempo." One stepped forward once the ponies reached her, making her groan again. "We came for the princess."

She looked away and yawned as the ponies continued, "Where is she?"

"Can we not do this?" Tempo whined, looking back at them and trying to look at the leader with heavy eyes. "Celestia and I just buried the hatchet, and we're just having a nice nap. Besides, isn't this place supposed to be the dumpster for ponies that annoys him? He won; Celestia won't bother him anymore now. Just let me..."

Her voice was interrupted when she felt a shock from her necklace, which glowed with the same indigo magic as the horn of the leader pony.

"I will not ask again, tumor, where is she?" Ending the exchange, Tempo glared at him but relented when she saw how the pony was charging his horn.

With a defeated sigh, she moved a wing up, revealing the sleeping figure of Celestia.

Immediately after, the ponies placed the alicorn on a stretcher and left with her.

"You are making a mistake if you ask me. Things would be much simpler and better if you let her sleep." Tempo complained and, for her effort, received an even stronger shock that left her numb and twitching.

"We didn't ask your opinion, blob. Just go back to sleep and do your job," The leader warned her with one last shock before leaving with the group and the princess.

Back at the present

Tempo finishes retelling the events with a mix of bile, rage, and shame: "I'm sorry, Blue. I have no idea where they took her after that. My mind was still so numb from the drugs that the bastard had me on. But I can tell you this: The plan of Desire involved giving Sharp Shooter part of his plan; that way, he could still desire something and empower her even more; that is how he and his goons were spared from the whole thing and why I was unable to...to..." Tempo was unable to finish her sentence as her eyes became damp, and she was on the verge of crying.

Luna placed an empathetic wing on Tempo's back and offered a small smile. "Nobody is blaming you, miss Tempo. I, for one, understand well the feeling of being controlled by an evil entity."

Tempo smiled and nodded at the princess' words, wiping away some tears while trying to get her emotions back in control before they all looked at the prince, who was gazed away with a thousand-yard stare. "Aunt Celly... is held hostage? By that MONSTER!?" The prince did everything he could to contain his rage; he wanted to form a fist, smash the floor, charge his magic, and do anything, everthing. Yet his body was too numb to comply and almost failed, nearly spilling him to the floor.

"I'm afraid so, nephew," Luna confirmed his fears with a single nod, using her magic to prevent him from falling and taking a step closer with a stern look. "And I understand your rage, my pupil. By my stars, believe me when I say mine own fury burns with the heat of a thousand stars. But fear not. Know that I'm doing everything I can to correct such an outrage, and my best ponies are on the case, retracing all the steps Sharp Shooter and his minions have ever taken, as well as take into account the testimony of all the victims he took under the Golden Mirage. We will find and rescue Celestia; I swear on my moon." She promised with steel in her voice.

"And you can count on my help, Auntie!" Blueblood nodded eagerly and took a step forward ." Whatever I can do to help rescue Aunt Celly, say the word, and I'll..."

He almost tripped from exhaustion until he felt Princess Luna's neck underneath his own, helping him stand up again. "I understand, but you will do nothing other than rest and recover your strength, nephew, and that is final." She commanded with authority and finality, letting him go once he recovered his balance.

Her gaze softened, and she slowly lifted his chin. "You have done more than enough, my star pupil. Equestria is grateful for your efforts, and I couldn't be more proud of being called your teacher and aunt." She smiled and brought him into a hug. "Now I need you to rest and let me take things from here."

The prince was slightly startled by how emotional Princess Luna was and how relaxed she made him by displaying affection before his expression became more sorrowful. "But auntie, Aunt Celly is still out there...with that psychopath somewhere, alone, scared..."

"But never helpless," Luna reminded him, breaking the hug. "I know my sister like I know the frog of my hoof nephew; Sharp Shooter is free to try whatever trick he can think of; nothing will work to intimidate her. Celestia will never break, and if he has a brain, Sharp Shooter would know to fear me, both in the waking and dream realm." She promised, trying but failing to contain the anger in her voice; her eyes glowed white as she voiced her declaration, startling and scaring everyone present as a strong gust of wind swirled up, moving everything in the room for a moment before she returned to normal and relaxed to address Blueblood again with a more serene smile on her face.

"I know it's hard, but I need you to promise me you will stay put right here, my dear pupil." She asked with pleading eyes. "I can't focus on saving my sister if I also have to worry about protecting my beloved nephew from rushing blindly into danger."

Blueblood stared directly into her eyes, wanting to protest, but his heart broke under her gaze, not out of fear but concern and empathy towards her. As much as it hurt him to admit it, Luna was right, and as much as he would love to help and do something, he could barely stand up; with his magic, he could only produce sparks at best, and he did not even have a complete weapon now. The prince was deadweight at the moment.

With a defeated sigh, he lowered his head and nodded once. "Okay, Aunty, as much as I hate to admit it, you are right. I would only get in the way." He raised his head with determination. "Just promise me to be careful, and the second I'm cleared with a clean bill of health, I will be jumping right into action."

Pinkie giggled at the comment and rolled her eyes before turning to Dash. "Remind you of some pony, Dashy?"

"Oh hardy har har, Pinkie. I wasn't that stubborn." Rainbow Dash defended herself as Pinkie laughed.

"You are right, Dashy; Bluey would probably listen to his doctors and stay still until he got better." Pinkie fired back.

"Exactly." Dash nodded confidently, earning a confused glance from everyone as she grinned until she realized what had happened and what she had said. "Hey!" Dash exclaimed and looked at Pinkie with anger and a slight blush while everyone chuckled at the display, improving the mood.

"Wait, what about the elements? I still need to give them back to you." Blueblood remembered, looking at Pinkie and Dash, who looked at him with raised eyebrows.

"Ah, dude, the elements are not horseshoes; it is a huge awesome rainbow beam that comes from a tree." Dash explained.

"Yeah, silly, we can't just give it away, or rather, you can't just take ALL of that away; that is not how things work." Pinkie giggled as she bopped his nose with her hoof. "What Twilight did was more like saying, 'Hey, can he use some of your super duper magic, please?' There was never anything you needed to return; we all still have the elements, no problem."

"And suddenly, I feel a bit of a fool." The prince confessed with a slight chuckle and some heat in his cheeks.

"Nah, don't feel bad, Bluey; none of us knew how the elements worked either. And hey, the fact that they stayed with you for so long means that they consider you worthy, so no biggy." Nefy consoled him with a chuckle. "So, no worries on that front. We have everything covered."

"And we are not abandoning you either, Blueblood," Sonata chipped in. "Everyone else is gearing up to leave and help out, but I have no issue staying behind and keeping you company." She then looked down and touched her fingers together with some embarrassment. "I may be better if I lay low for some time anyway; even if I'm reformed, I'm still kind of sort... an ex-bad girl that tormented ponies for a loooong time in the past." She ended with a nervous chuckle.

"You're crazy for thinking that, and we are all ready to accept you, Sonata." Dash disagreed. "But... the same thing happened to Discord, and even I needed some time before I forgave him, so yeah. Maybe until everyone calms down a bit, and it's better to stay on the safe side." She nodded before flying to hover by Blueblood. "By the way, we haven't told Twilight the whole story about Sonata Blue, and it's best to keep it that way for now. I don't want her to get all worried and start hyperventilating either."

"But I already told her about the plan back in the human world," Blueblood reminded her, blinking a couple of times and getting afraid as he recalled how Twilight was beginning to panic when they spoke on the phone.

"Yeah, but she doesn't know that Sonata is here; she is now more human-like and has new, stronger powers; you need to ease her into these things, like putting a goldfish on a tank," Pinkie chips in. "So, no telling at the moment, okay?"

Understanding, Blueblood nods. "Okay then, thanks, Sonata; I appreciate having a friend here."

"Don't mention it; I could use one too. I spent so much time with Adagio and Aria I'm still rusty about making new friends. Having you around would make things easier." She replied, putting a hand on his back in a sort of hug while Blueblood placed a hoof on one of her fingers.

"Plus, I contacted all the available forces and passed along an order to allow the two guards you hoof-picked to return and resume their duties as your official bodyguard's nephew. They should be arriving by tomorrow."

Breaking the hug, the prince nods before looking at Tempo. "And what about you, Auntie? Do you also need to go?"

"Unfortunately, yes, but just for a very short time. Princess Luna needs my testimony and a list of everything Sharp Shooter did to me to build a case and make clear my involvement in his crimes so I can testify and, in exchange, reduce my sentence."

"Sentence?" The prince repeats in alarm

"Just a formality, nephew; we both now know that Crossfire Tempo was yet another victim of the real mastermind; her testimony and cooperation are mostly so she can get justice for what happened and that nobody brands her a criminal or traitor. Just following the Equestrian laws, once everything is resolved, she can come back and help in your recovery as long as she is needed." Luna promised.

"Well, I can't argue with that; we still need to follow protocol." Blueblood replied, trying to hide the disappointment in his voice as he sighed before smiling again and looking at his aunts. "We will wait right here then, and who knows? I still have means to communicate with you guys; I could search for clues, maybe I could be like mission control and research intel as you have your missions, or look into the crater for clues and see if I can find something that tells us where Sharp Shooter took..."

A glare from Luna was enough to stop him, and he made himself smaller. "I will focus on healing only."

"Thank you for understanding, nephew." Luna replied with a slight nod and smile before her expression faded, and she looked out the window. "I promise you this: I will be as swift as I can be to reunite our family once more; I know my sister, and if there is something I know well of Celestia, it is that she can endure. So for now, I only ask, wherever she may be, to be patient until my return."

Everyone nodded and looked at the window, sharing similar thoughts and praying for the well-being of the princess of the sun.

At that moment, in an unknown location

The sound of dripping water slowly stirred Princess Celestia to consciousness as she raised her head and realized that she was currently lying in a very comfortable bed that seemed to be made out of a cloud, with sheets that felt to be made of the most expensive and softest silk imaginable. The same could be said for the long and puffy pillows, almost inviting her to go back to sleep.

The princess considered an idea for a second before noticing the rest of her surroundings, gradually replacing her grogginess with confusion and unease. The room was a decent cave, judging by the stone walls, with a pony made of stone in front of her and a single green door.

A chandelier served as the source of light for the entire room, and there were no windows to be seen anywhere; there was a luxurious carpet and furniture not too far from her, and there was even a small coffee table with a glass and jug of water with some ice on it, giving her a welcoming air to the room.

Sitting on her bed, the princess was startled when she noticed how her wings were wrapped in bandages with rune patterns woven into them, and when she tried to use her magic to remove it, she felt her magic constrained and sealed; she confirmed this fact when she extended her hoof and felt a suppressing ring shackled onto her horn.

Despite that, she remained calm and collected, momentarily closing her eyes to process her situation and figure out how to approach it. Her line of thought was interrupted when she heard the door open, and two ponies in a complete set of black and purple armor that obscured their faces walked inside. The pair were startled when they saw the princess awake, and one held a couple of towels and a bucket.

"Your Highness!" The pegasus soldier, a mare judging by the tone of her voice, spoke first in surprise before looking at the other soldier holding the items. "Inform the boss."

The soldier nodded and promptly dropped the items, bolting out of the room as the pegasus approached Celestia. "It's alright, Your Highness; you are okay now," she tried to reason, pointing at the bed behind Celestia. "Let's just go back to bed and..."

"...where am I?" Celestia interrupts the soldier with a stern and authoritative tone.

"Safe and sound, that I can guarantee. I know you may be startled, but I promise everything will be explained in just..."

"I wake up with my wings and magic suppressed; this is not a hospital, and you are not a nurse. It was a nice effort, but I'm not stupid, and this isn't my first kidnapping. I'm in no mood to play your little games. So let's skip the pretext and tell me what is happening." Celestia interrupted again, rising from the bed and casually stomping on the floor once with enough force that it cracked, which cowed the soldier.

The masked soldier tried to back away, but Celestia advanced, using the point of her horn to intimidate her and place her against the wall. "Where am I, and what do you want?"

"In a secure bunker and the well-being of Equestria, your Highness," Sharp Shooter responded from the door with two more soldiers. Celestia glanced at him with surprise and anger as he wore a purple cape and pauldrons emblazoned with the symbol of the moon and the sun, looking at her with a calm smile. "That is all we have wanted from the very start."

"Sharp Shooter," Celestia addressed him with a deceptively pleasant tone, releasing the mare when she noticed the other guards pointing a portable, crew-served ballista at her. "I should have known you would be behind all of this."

"Please, your Highness, there is no need for any hostility; as you can see, I'm still very much an ally of the crown." Sharp Shooter tried to get into her good side, showing the shoulder pad with the sun on it.

"Forgive me for finding that hard to believe coming from a murderer and a psychopath." Celestia remarked, still pleasantly, with only a hint of anger shadowing her tone. Sharp, in kind, maintains a stoic expression.

"I still believe in you as our great ruler, Your Highness; now, please, Your Highness, we are both civilized ponies of high society and regal bearing." The guards finished preparing their weapons and stood ready to fire. "Let's not reduce ourselves to petty, unnecessary squabbles." He ended his sentence with a hint of reverence and a smile.

Celestia eyed the weapons arrayed against her before dismissing them and moving to the sitting area. Taking a seat, Celestia returned her gaze to Sharp Shooter, copying his stoic expression. "What do you want from me, Sharp Shooter?"

"Just a talk, I promise; it's clear your sister, bless her brilliant mind, stumbled into a little project of mine that was and still is intended to improve our lives and make Equestria one of if not the greatest nation imaginable."

"At the cost of my nephew's life and one of the elements?" She questioned with a raised eyebrow. The silence that followed her words was deafening. Sharp schooled his surprised face to his stoic expression once more.

"I would ask one more time, Your Highness; let's please keep things civilized and just chat; it's up to you to make this easy or hard." He offered before inclining his head to one of the soldiers who quickly summoned and levitated a set of chains and enchanted manacles ready to use on her.

Remaining quiet, Celestia stood up and walked toward him. "Let's talk then."

"Excellent! This way, please." Sharp Shooter's mood immediately improved, and he guided her out of the room, signaling his soldier to put the chains away as Celestia followed. "We have plenty to discuss, and even though this is no longer how I envisioned things going, perhaps there is still time to make things right."

"In that, we can both agree, Sharp Shooter. I'm thinking... fifty years to life once this little bubble of yours pops, but don't worry, I will see if you can have my current bed after the trial," Celestia politely replied in a more cheerful tune as she took the lead when Sharp Shooter froze in place. "Mr. Shooter? Weren't you about to show me your lair?" She asked as if they were age-old friends, egging the psychopath a bit more before he recovered his composure and retook the lead.

Meanwhile

In another place and another time, a peculiar purple gem fell through a slight crack in reality, landing on a hard stone floor with a clatter. It illuminated a darkened room, glowing brightly as if screaming for help. That was until someone entered the room to see what the noise was and took notice of the stone.

The individual approached, looking down curiously at it. Bending down, the individual wrapped her hand around the gem and stared at the demon Twilight inside it. "Well, what do we have here?" the individual asked, standing up and examining it more closely. When she felt the darkness and power within, she grinned. "Oh, this is too perfect. Too perfect!"

The hooded creature threw back her head, flinging off the hood to reveal her dark purple horn and snow-white hair. Dark feminine laughter echoed through the walls of a dark castle as she walked towards the door. "My time has come at last!" And with that, she slammed the door shut, its echoes reverberating throughout the ancient castle.

"Blood Brothers" is Coming soon.
> A Sharp Plan (Edited By BS)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Advancing through an empty, icy hallway, Princess Celestia tried to distinguish any landmarks around her while keeping an eye on her captors both in front and behind her. The sound of their hoofs echoed in the walls, adding to the tense atmosphere.

After advancing to match the pace of her captor, the princess finally broke the silence and addressed Sharp Shooter. "I recall you saying something about wanting to talk, Mr. Shooter. May I know when you were planning to start?"

In reply, the pegasus only chuckled lightly and looked over at her with a calm smile. "Patience, Your Highness, just a little bit further." He replied with a casual tone that didn't soothe the princess's carefully caged rage as they stopped in front of a wall no different from any other, save for the staff hanging from a display. Sharp quickly grabbed it and then flew up into the middle of the wall, starting to rub his hoof against its surface as if looking for something.

"Although I would say that things have gotten a bit... tense with all the silence, so why don't we start with a history lesson?" Finding what he was looking for, Sharp Shooter flew back down and leveled the staff's tip against a small gap in the wall. The princess now noticed the red gem in the staff, which had a shape that fit perfectly with the gap.

Once secure, the pegasus regarded the princess again, maintaining his casual tone. "This place has quite the history if I do say so myself. It's possibly older than the three tribes and could easily be from the times of Gusty the Great," he said with excitement as the princess remained stoic.

"Quite impressive indeed; I would be even more intrigued if I wasn't so disappointed with how you have tainted such a historic location with your modern machinations. That is, of course, if what you say is true." Celestia replied in quiet defiance, maintaining her stoic expression, which soured Sharp Shooter's mood, though he didn't voice his displeasure.

"Yes, you are right, Your Highness; it is normal not to be interested in this type of thing just yet, but wait until you hear what I say. Maybe then your attitude will change." The pegasus assured before turning the staff, which was now easily identified as a key. It revealed a secret entrance to a set of spiral stairs before the group, heading down toward a lower floor with no light at the bottom.

"This way, Your Highness," Sharp Shooter beaconed her to follow as he stepped inside; the guards behind the princess poked her with spears as she followed suit, and they followed until they reached Sharp Shooter, who tapped the floor twice. Snails with bioluminescent shells lit their way to another hallway and stretched off into space.

Picking one snail up and putting it on the top of his staff, Sharp Shooter lit the way further through the open space. "I bet you are full of questions right now, Your Highness; I think it is time I start giving you some answers." Sharp Shooter started as a low tune started playing, the guards starting to hum with the music as the pegasus illuminated a mural in front of them, astonishing the princess as she paid close attention to the images in front of them

"What is this?" Celestia asked in legitimate surprise, as something she had never seen was presented before her, and Sharp Shooter started rapping.





"You see, princess ~back then, during my travels, I stumbled into this place, an ancient history, and forgotten knowledge, one that gave me the answer that none ever since has ever spoken, that confirmed to me what I had for so long suspected, ever since the great war that I have once partaken"~

Celestia gasped in astonishment when crude images of alicorns popping out of the wall appeared in front of her, as ordinary citizens, as if they were part of the cave ponies era.

"I see you are starting to understand, princess; I assure you this is not my doing; this is history and truth as it was once told." He pointed at a family of alicorns

~"There was a time when alicorns were not all that impressive, just regular ponies like any other species, and they were nice and wise, a thriving society, that is, of course, until they stumbled another race, one with bipedal legs and peculiar bird faces"~ He pointed at another image of alicorns making contact with what appeared to be bipedal creatures with beaks and arms of birds. Without skipping a beat, Sharp turned to the princess, who took a step closer to look at the image in displeasure as they started to move and wave at each other.

~"That is right, princess, this is your origin and a cautionary tale, one that describes actions that neither you nor I should either forgive or forget."~

Celestia looked at Sharp in surprise before looking back at different images of the bird tribe ~"I admit to not knowing how it started or how things played out in the end, but from what I discovered, the fight began with them."~ The image showed the bird creatures with spears and torches.

~"The bird tribe, nothing but dangerous and violent creatures, that is what they were, who replied to your race's kindness and wonder with violence and death."~ Celestia went pale when she saw the Alicorns being hunted down and captured by the bird creatures; she could almost hear the screams of fear and pain as the monster cut their wings and horns or impaled them.

Sharp Shooter kept advancing, and the rest followed as he continued talking.

~"They call them beasts, you monsters, with glee and sadistic smiles. They just kept killing and plundering. The truth is laid bare here; it was as clear as your day. For them, it was always just another game."~

Sharp finished angrily before pointing at a section where alicorns could be seen escaping into what appeared to be a city hiding within the clouds ~" And then I discovered the actions your ancestors took. The alicorns are strong, intelligent, and wise, but they all have one fatal flaw: their resolve. They could have chosen to fight. Instead, they chose to run.

Thus, here we stand today, where I can express my concern with this tale of extinction and memory of your race. Now, you must choose to fight or flee just like your ancestors did before, but before you decide, princess, allow me to remind you, in this cruel world, you either fight or end up six feet under."~

Sharp stopped and showed the monsters standing victorious atop a pile of corpses as the alicorns flew into the sky.

He pointed at an image of Alicorn passing their magic to a pair of fillies and handing them to Equestria's founders; the message was clear in Celestia's mind ~"By this point, I imagine you are wondering. "Hey, they escaped, so where are all the alicorns? Are they still in the sky? Still hiding and thriving?" I wish that were the case, yet the reality is much sadder."~

There was a new picture of the alicorns, seemly to be falling sick and dropping dead ~"One final gift of the bird savages, a sickness, effective and fast, one that was quickly spelled their end, that is until they finally took action, even if too late, the alicorn race would did not go out without a fight"~

Celestia was speechless when she saw a group of alicorns gifting their magic to three fillies before sending them to the founders of Equestria, who raised them as their own. Memories of the princess's past flooded her mind like a tidal wave.

"It's...it's me. me and my sisters." Celestia whispered, touching the figure of herself as Sharp chuckled and flew around her.

"Your prophecy, your Highness, now you see I'm your ally?" He illuminated the final image of them lifting the stars as he continued his song

~"And it was here where I saw the truth and the destiny you were meant to play. The final gift your species gave you and your sisters is power beyond measure. As a way to survive, their intentions are clearer, and their wishes are more than justified; princess, you can't repeat their actions. You can't let this chance pass. It was always your destiny, fate, and species' cry to set things right and end the madness. As the princesses of Equestria, you must take up arms, take the throne and crown, as the only true queen everyone should look up to, to show the world that you three were always the only ones fit to lead, the only ones fit to rule them all."~

He flew in front of the princess and pointed at the image of the fillies; in time, the whole room came to light, and statues of other Alicorn started to sing as the light began to dance.

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

The statues repeated in a low tune as the music gained more volume, showing more and more atrocities ~"And you can't deny"~

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

~"You know, I'm right"~

~"So step up and take your crown"~

Shaking her head, Celestia pointed at the mural and looked at the pegasus, breaking her calm. "Sharp, this is insane! You can't possibly be suggesting a world war based on an old story."

"That is exactly what I'm saying, and it's more than a story. It is history and a cautionary tale to avoid history repeating itself. Of course, I'm not suggesting that you declare war on the world blindly; No, That's stupid and, worse, counterproductive. This kind of thing requires patience and timing. Who knows? There may not even be a need for a war. Just think of it as a way to put all other races in line and what to do with those that don't comply." The pegasus descended and started to pound in time with the music with a smile.

"Listen to yourself, Sharp Shooter! This is madness. You, better than anyone, should know what war is. It only brings pain and misery. Even if—and I mean, this is a huge IF—this mural is correct, and what it represents is what you are implying, that was then and now. Things have changed, and we are better than this. The time of needing wars is and should remain in the past."

"Are you sure about that, your highness?" Sharp questioned with a smirk, taking a step closer to her

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

~"You talk of better times, you preach of another way, yet all I see is excuses and fantasy"~

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

~"And don't try to deny things, don't insult those who gave their lives, war is always present, and history is on my side. I know your past; what happens when two little fillies move the stars, and if you want a clearer example of war? What about the changeling, the yak, and the storm attacks?!"~ Sharp stomped the ground in anger and with an accusing tone.

~"So step up and take your crown"~

Celestia was about to reply, but Sharp wasn't done and poked an accusatory hoof at her.

~"None of those attacks we ever instigated by us, and yet they still attack and attack without remorse; one group even attacked us not once but TWICE in a row! They don't care about friendship, they don't care about us, they only care for power, and they want it all. So I must ask you, princess, to see the facts; friendship and kindness are admirable but will only lead us so far. You know I speak the truth if you care for your little ponies. As proud equestrians, we can no longer hold back. For the sake of our kingdom, we must strike first and hard, with swiftness and cunning, to set an example to our enemies and make our message loud and clear. We no longer play nice; they will either obey or be crushed under hoof and never given a chance to strike back."~

Flipping his staff, Sharp Shooter uses it on another gap; he opens the mural in three sections, revealing how the entire wall was a giant stone door.

Stepping inside, the princess was surprised to see a whole army training, well-equipped and seemingly ready for war. The army was composed of ponies and other various races, including deer, which surprised the princess the most, considering Sharp Shooter's history with that race.

"What is all of this Sharp Shooter?" Celestia demanded as they advanced through and over a bridge of stone; all of the soldiers who noticed them stopped what they were doing and saluted at them

"A well-oiled machine of war, I told you, I have been preparing. With all sorts of tricks, plans, and tools ready for use." They approach a table laden with arrows. The pegasus picked one and handed it over to the princess. "Tell me, princess, have you ever wondered how I made my fortune? Here is a clue: it's tied to how this arrow was made; it looks simple at first, but take a closer look at it, and you will see:"

He stepped aside and let her see a machine producing the munitions, which was connected to a tube feeding some Luminescent green liquid into the machine while also connecting to many other devices through a vast network of other green tubes, all leading back to a single source, strapped to a device in the middle of the metal circle.

Gasping in horror, Celestia could only stare. "Wait, that...that is not liquid, its blood, and is that...?"

~"The very one, Chrysalis, former queen and an old foe, now serving a higher purpose."~ Sharp flew by and passed his hoof at the edge of the cylinder as the changeling trash around in a fury, trying to free herself with no avail

~"Just like the others, just like old foes, tell me, princess, do you think all changelings had a change of heart?"~ He pointed to his right, and the princess saw corpses of black changelings being used to produce more arrows.

~"No, of course not, that is not how things work in real life, so it falls to me to finish the job and set the example; when your enemy attacks, you must strike back and keep striking. Otherwise, you can expect them to attempt a second attack. Such is the way things should be: the winner makes demands, and the loser gets in line, and that is how I work, finding our enemies and giving them a new role, amassing fortunes, resources, and more to your beck and call, all for Equestria, all for you my queen. The true ruler of the entire world"~

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

The soldiers started to sing as Sharp flew in a circle

~"And what a beautiful world would that ever be"~

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

~"Under the banner of Equestria, we can all live free"~

~"So step up and take your crown"~

Celestia stepped back, feeling sick in her stomach, until Sharp flew to her side ~"Take the deer, for example; you remember them well, right? Do you remember what happened after we left? Well, let me tell you, it didn't end well."~ He pointed at a group of them

~"Humiliated and now broken, their spirit was beyond repair, with sorrow and resentment toward the ones that started it all, their rulers, yes the same ones you spared, were now facing the people's glares. So the conflict was exploited, and their pride kept their mouths shut, and since Equestria didn't intervene, their nation couldn't do anything but crumble and turn to dust."~ The group looked down in shame and anger before resuming their work

~"And so anarchy settled in, and in a matter of months their kingdom was reduced to none, the survivors struggled their morals soiled, some escape, some weren't so lucky, and those that I didn't take in, now just plot their revenge, on the mare that didn't do anything and left them to their fate, I know it hurts, but the reality of things, is something you can't ignore, what is wrong was right, and what once right was wrong"~

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

Celestia looked around her, all the sad faces staring at her.

"I'm sorry, I can't do that," She defended herself

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

"No matter what you say, two wrongs would never make a right," She screamed with concern and determination.

~"So step up and take your crown"~

"I can't just step in and help other kingdoms if they don't ask. There are rules; there is the matter of their pride!"~ Celestia continued.

~"Oh, that, I understand, but princess, you have to comprehend that sometimes rules need to be broken, and no, you can't just keep doing the same; you can't trust everything to six mares to hopefully make things whole again. That is why I did what needed to be done, Your Highness, for there is no such thing as one move to fix it all."~

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

~"And many more would not survive otherwise"~

~"Rule them all, Rule them all, Rule them ALLL"~

~"If you keep defending that fake cause"~

~"So step up, and take the crown"~

~"If you don't, then Cadence soon will be gone"~

"WHAT?!" Celestia exclaimed in horror and rage.

"You want to see what happens when we do things your way? Take a look." He points to his right, where two ponies guarded a giant rectangular crystal. Sharp Shooter gives the signal, and they touch the crystal; as it starts to emit a small light, and from its surface appears an army of caribou, deer, and diamond dogs, gathering on a snow hill.

"What am I looking at?" Celestia took a step closer. 

"Mercenaries, from of all the nations you decided NOT to conquer when they attacked first, preparing an outright invasion of your niece's kingdom, the deer was just one example, but Equestria has many enemies, fueled by revenge and beyond saving, and with how weak the Crystal Empire is currently, the land is ripe for the taking. Killing your family in the process, including a child? I wouldn't be surprised if that is their main objective for many of them." Sharp explain calmly ending with a shrug and a shake of his head

"I would never let that happen!" Celestia continue in defiance 

"And how are you going to stop it? Send Twilight and her friends? They are already heading to the kingdom as we speak. Go ahead and send a letter if you wish. Just don't be surprised if later you receive their heads as a response,"

Sharp's tone got more aggressive as they advanced to a lower floor ~"You feel encouraged and comforted by your noble notion of right and wrong. To let others rule and fight as they do as if there is no other choice, well, news flash. Laws have already been broken; you warn them of the danger, and you would be viewed as the bad guy. The rules on which you are so keen, well, they say to let your niece die! All those mercenaries are still other nations' problems; we intervene, and your supposed friends will spin things to their favor, just an excuse to strike, another excuse to declare yet another war."~

Celestia, scared, started to walk backward while looking everywhere as more and more soldiers gathered around Sharp Shooter. ~"Don't ask if this is right, don't ask if you should wait, ask yourself this princess, what would you rather have? your morals and pride or knowing your family will stay safe?"~

Sharp stopped, and Celestia felt herself against a wall as Sharp sat and crossed his frontal hooves. "Lives are on the line, princess; what will it be?"

Taking a deep breath and shaking her head, the princess stood tall and defiant as she stared at Sharp Shooter. "I'm more than familiar with the concept of lives on the line, Sharp Shooter. Don't forget how I have and will outlive all of you and have had my fair share of love and loss. I thank you for the warning, but I will rescue my niece and my allies my way and by the book. If you truly claim to be my ally, then you will dismantle this place, let me go, and turn yourself into the proper authorities."

Her expression softens, and she leans her head forward. "I beg you, Sharp Shooter. You have shown me how you see life. Now allow me to show you what is lacking in yours. Take me, for example to follow, and let me teach you something called compassion." she offered, extending her hoof toward him.

For his part, Sharp Shooter remained quiet for a moment before sighing in disappointment. "Now"

He ordered no one in particular, and the next thing Celestia knew, she was struck down by sedative darts that knocked her out in a matter of seconds. Sharp Shooter used his body to catch her head and shoulders before lowering her gently to the ground.

"You are still trapped in your lies, your Highness, refusing to let your true face shine." The pegasus looked at the princess in pity before looking at the wall before him. "But don't worry, my queen. I know you are in there somewhere, and I will help you see the truth, you and your sister. All of Equs would soon meet their true rulers; all they need is the proper rehabilitation."

He then addresses his soldiers, "Put her back in the gas chamber and double the dose; she is still resisting the drugs."

"Right away, sir." Two soldiers took the princess away, and Sharp Shooter admired the painting before him with yearning.

"Soon, my queen, soon you will be free to rule them all," he whispered at a painting of Celestia sitting on a throne of gold, holding a wand with orange reptilian eyes and her mane and tail on fire.