> In Search Of...
>  by rattled404
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: Upside Down
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

You don’t remember much about your life as a child. It was hazy and you could barely make a clear vision of it. It was a world where metal beasts roared and birds made of iron flied. There was a siren, a really loud one. You ran and ran then heard a whistle, then... well you ended up waking up here, covered in soot and dried blood. Another thing you remembered in your childhood was the frequent word "Nazis" and "Churchill." A hill on a church, now that didn't make sense at all.

Growing up in a land of ponies wasn’t great either, you were ostracized because of your appearance by your school mates. Can you blame them? Unlike the rest you got as taller you got older, only your mom could meet your eye level, well not anymore since you went past her height. The memories of you straining your neck was something you wanted now. You didn't like being the center of the attention. Not to mention the fangs you have, when you smiled it always scared anypony you met for the first time. The rumors from that alone wanted you to never go out. The only part that didn’t bother much was your hoof… you never did find a word for those wriggler thing you have instead of hooves.  

You let out another sigh as the specially made backpack leaned on the table. Another year of school would begin. You hated school for these reasons: 

1. The ponies that either feared you or bullied you followed since all children of nobility went to the same school. Because of that you never had a chance to make a friend. 
2. You never had a friend. The fact that you were the royalty didn’t help either. 
3. You can never eat lunch in peace. You always ate inside the toilet since the ponies would be disgusted by your diet. 
4. If someone did try to be friends they only did it because of your status and their parents force them to so they can win favor.
5. Being alone sucks and you now realized your families didn’t count as friends… or your servants/guards.

You never told your mom since she had more important things to take care of. Something petty as bullies didn't discourage you. Whenever she asks about your school you always say that it’s going well with a smile, maybe fabricate a story here and there. White lies never harmed anypony. Not like she could tell when you were lying, you did this since elementary school. 

The bed you lied on was soft, too soft since you wanted to be awake before the dreaded day would come. First kingdom problems, isn’t it? Despite being a yearly thing you could not help but to hate it. 

The next morning the monotonous schedule would be changed. Waking up early in the morning, even before the servants would wake up you dress up and get your backpack. It looks clear, the batpony guards for the nights are just beginning to change shift with the dayguards. You managed to slip by pretending to get some early trotting, in your backpack and school uniform, perfectly normal. That was when you saw your personal night guard, Umbra.

“Where do you think you’re going your highness?” Umbra asked with a flat tone. 

You sputter, thinking of some kind of excuse. “I’m going to…”

The silence was painful and Umbra wasn’t the type to be gullible, especially when it came to her job. Batpony in general were more observant and perceptive, which was why they were the night guard, and your personal guard. 

“A trot. I’m going trotting.” You say confidently.

“You’re going for a trotting, this early in your school uniform on your first day of school?” Umbra asked incredulously.

“Yes?” 

Umbra raised her eyebrow in suspicion, then narrowing her eyes to a stern glare. She knew about you more than you do, maybe even more than mom.  

“Then I’ll accompany you.” Umbra said.

You stutter for a response. “N-no it’s ok. Besides, your shift is almost ight? Don’t you want to sleep?”

“I got few hours until Spearhead replaces me, that should be enough right your highness?” Umbra asked.

Shit. There was no way out so you decides to your best weapon, the wriggers. Umbra first held her reaction as your wrigglers scratch her chin then to her head, Umbra confidently looks at you, she got better at resisting, it used to work. By your mother’s name was she beautiful, you always wonder why she decided to join the guards when she could’ve been a model. While she enjoyed herself you quickly run past her and to the exit, at least that was your plan until Umbra flew past you to block the exit.

“Nice try your highness.” She said smugly.

“Oh come on! Can’t you let me sneak out for once?” 

Umbra shook her head. “Then I won’t be doing my job. It’s just one day your highness. I’m sure you can bear with it. Besides, don't you attend school like three days out of the whole year?”

"I still hate every moment of it. A royal procession is a pain in the flank. And I don’t want mom- I mean mother to show herself at my school to say goodbye like I’m some colt. Don’t you know how embarrassing to have everypony's eyes on you?"

Umbra quirked an eyebrow again Of course she knows, and it’s kind of redundant when you look different from the rest of the ponies and basically tall enough to kick them like a hoofball. Still, you never liked the attention. 

“I understand but no means no, your highness.” Umbra said sternly.

“I’ll get you a day off.” You offered.

She shook her head. “You know you can’t bribe me with that. Not like last time." 

You hang your head in defeat. Umbra pats on your knee, you kneel down to let her pat your head. Her lips curved to a smile. 

“Come on your highness, maybe it won’t that bad. How about we get breakfast together? Get your mind off few things.” Umbra suggested.

“Fine.” 

Usually the meals were sent to your room or in the royal dining room, the latter being seldom. The usual meal that you enjoyed was replaced with a salad, even if it was an egg some ponies weren’t so keen of your diet, and the only chef that was willing to cook meat was still asleep. That chef also happened to be a griffin.

“You got a big day ahead of you and you shouldn't tackle it with an empty stomach.”

“I’m not hungry this morning.” You said as you play with your salad. 

“I don’t see why you’re worried. How bad could it be?” Umbra asked.

That question. That bucking question. That question you’ve been asking yourself for years. Which it always went wrong, it became like a omen really, whenever someone asked that question something definitely went wrong. You enjoyed your salad but soon interrupted by a rumbling hoofsteps. Ten- no twenty guard recruits walked in a organized, single file of line. Every year you go with your mother to watch their graduation. It was certainly better than Grand Galloping Gala. 

“Attention on deck! Prince Anonymous Incognito of Equestria on deck!”

The booming voice made you flinch like a released spring. Your hoof slams on the edge of the bowl. The bowl then spun in the air then landed on your head along with the content inside the bowl. There was a painful silence, echoing with the stifling of Umbra’s muffled laughter. The drill instructor galloped over to you then bowed with a concerned look on his face.

“Y-your highness I didn’t mean to-”

“It’s fine Sergeant.” You tiredly say, though it was comforting to know that the worst has already come to pass. “I’m sure you didn’t mean this to happen. Please rise.”

The drill instructor pony rose back up, gave an apology again and was about to left until one chuckle unluckily echoed loudly. You could see the Drill Instructor already catching the poor soul. The painful silence intensified to a lethal one. You don’t know much about military but you knew how scary they can be. 

“RECRUIT!” The Drill Instructor stomped over. “YOU JUST SIGNED YOURSELF A YEAR LONG RIDE OF PAIN AND I WILL PUSH MY HOOF DOWN YOUR THROAT THEN-”

The Drill instructor stops, he was in front of you after all. You think it was worse the fact that he couldn’t finish his threat. At least you think so by the look of the white unicorn’s body. The Drill Instructor went close to the unicorn then whispered, and whatever it was, it made the white unicorn paler. Now that's a sight.  

Umbra acted like nothing is going on and continued her meal while you watch in morbid curiosity. Still, you had to do something, or else that stallion would die. You take off the bowl then walk up to the Drill Instructor.

“Your highness, no need, I am going to discipline him so he knows what-”

“Sergeant, may I ask you to forgive the recruit?” You ask politely, in the most regal way possible, your mom did teach one or two things. “I mean I’m ok so there’s no need to right?”

The Drill Instructor looked shocked. But he couldn’t fight royalty, technically he can since your title was hollow, just all flash but no authority. You know you’re way out of line and you’re scared shitless despite knowing nothing will happen to you.

“Of course your highness, as you command.”

You briefly meet eyes with the white unicorn. It was hard to tell what he was thinking of and the awkwardness stifled your breath. This was the first time you ever ordered someone, excluding servants.

“What’s your name?” You ask.

“RIGHT… FACE!” The Drill Instructor commanded.

The formation just turned right.

“SALUTE!”

The ponies all saluted as they were ordered to, this made it more awkward for you but traditions were traditions.

“That is Recruit Armor.”

You remember how your mom inspected the soldiers and you imitate her. You walk over to him then… what was the word again? Appease? At beast? At least? Bat Please?

“Be at appeased." 

Nailed it. No wait, the recruit isn’t doing anything and looks more perplexed than you did on your first day of Herath Warming’s Eve. Why can’t you remember something that simple when you seen it like thousands of times? Oh right, you usually daze out within the first three minute's of General Ironhoof's speech.

“HE SAID AT EASE ARE YOU DEAF AND BRAINLESS!” The kind Drill Instructor politely corrected.

“NO SIR!” 

“THEN GO AT EASE RECRUIT!”

“AYE AYE SIR!”

Wait did he just say “aye aye”? You thought they were in the royal guard, not in the navy. This was more difficult to understand than you thought.

“What’s your name?”

“Sir, this recruit’s name is Shining Armor Sir!” 

Did he just spoke in third person? Uh oh, the Drill Instructor doesn’t look happy either. 

“Did you just call him Sir? Recruit does he look like an offi-”

You squat down to meet his eye level but not too close and you smile without showing your teeth.

“Nice to meet you Shining Armor, um...” You interrupted but wasn’t sure what to say. “Why did you join?”

“To serve Equestria and the royal family, your highness!”

The Drill Instructor was silent, thankful that the recruit got it right. You inhale silently, preparing your regal voice that you’ve been practicing. 

“Shining Armor, I thank you for your dedication and your courage to join. I’ll look forward for your graduation.”

Armor died to a silence, something only your mom could do. The Drill Instructor save you and him by ordering them to head for the line. You gave a royal goodbye then went back to the table. The rest of meal went well and Umbra got relieved of her post, Spearhead was opposite of Umbra, that is he played along with your mischief time to time, and he was probably your only friend. 

Inside your room you lie on the bed with your uniform, not paying mind that your uniform might get wrinkled. Spearhead leaned on the wall.  

“You gotta be kidding me Anon!” Spearhead said while laughing.
 
You feel the blush heating your cheeks, Spearhead’s laugh didn’t help either.

“I panicked ok? I didn’t know it was supposed to be ‘at ease’.” You said indignantly.  

“You’ve been to countless ceremonies, how can you not forget?” 

“Oh kiss my flank.” You say defeatedly, you bury head to the pillow. “I don’t want to go to school.”

“Why go then, you used to do home schooling… I guess in this case it’s palace schooling.”

“Yeah that was until mom thought I should be with other ponies and learn to socialize. If I just suddenly change mom’s gonna worry and she has enough on her plate already.” You say tiredly.

“You mean it’s not filled with cake?”

An ugly chortle of chuckle drags out. You’re not gonna lie, she did like cake to a… unique degree. She was no cook but you’re glad she wasn’t, Equestria forbid if she learns how to cook. A soft knock distracts your attention in the conversation.

“You do realize bullying a royal is a death sentence?”

“It’s not.” You correct. "Unless you're goign to bring up 

“Well… it might as well be. Are you sure my boys and I teach his family a lesson? You know my men looks up to you. I don’t know how you made all of your guards keep silent on it.” Spearhead said.

The cool blanket is soft on your skin. You wrap yourself like a rolled up carpet. It’s true you can just tell your mom and get it taken care of but… She’s busy, that being an understatement. The last thing she need is more to worry.

“Look, I’m fine. I can handle it on my own.”

“Your highness, the carriage has arrived.” The servant said.

A long sigh escape from your lips. 

“Let’s get this over with.”

For some lucky reason, your mom was too busy in the morning so the royal procession was to be canceled, busy enough that you didn’t see her. You thank luck for making this happen. You look at the academy, not grand and gigantic like home but guaranteed to impress just about any nobles. As expected you walk carefully around the ponies to get to your first class until a ball hits you in the head, followed by a chortles. 

“Hey monkey!”

You groan. “Oh… Gold Platinum. Hi.”    

Your body automatically move to let that bastard put his hoof around your neck, as if you were friends with him. That dirty looking yellow coat with silver mane looks awful but you can’t say that. He and his lackeys are just as unbearable to look at. 

“I guess we’re in the same class again, huh buddy?”

You strain a smile. 

“Yup. I guess… we are.” 

“You know what to get me for lunch then.” 

“Yeah.”

Platinum shoves you off then heads for class. The moment you enter every ponies bows which ends quickly by your gesture. You take a seat then the class began. Thanks to having no friends you poured every ounce of tie into studying, easily putting you in number one in academics. Lunch soon came and you sigh as you get the snacks you always bought for your “friends”. 

“You got my lunch?”

You grumble as you hand over the bought snacks. The bastard Platinum swipe the snacks out of your hand then sharing with his goons. Platinum bucks your knee then laughs as he walks away, calling you a monkey and an ape. You sigh then look for a place to eat, unfortunately the restroom was full of students for some reason so your spot was gone.

The most insults are calling you an ape or a monkey. They were kind of right, you’re damn good at climbing trees. You find the thiccest tree then climb up to a sturdy branch. Your legs stretched as you leaned on the tree. You then fasten the belt on your waist in case you fall. The countless concussion and scolding from your mother made you smarter in climbing trees.  

With a half eaten sandwich in your habd you hear some giggling of mares. You shrug then bask in the cool shades of the tree. Mares especially were afraid of you. Hiding your fangs, wearing mittens to make it look like proper hooves, it never worked. Romance was an illusion anyways.

You close your eyes and try to take a nap. A sound of wings slightly takes your attention but not enough to open your eyes, not until the sound got louder with a gentle breeze brushing your face. 

“Hello!"

A voice catches you off guard and you jolt awake from your nap. Your body falls off from  the branch but the belt holds you in place. Kinda like a batpony when they sleep but held by ropes and belts while looking stupid. 

You met this pony once when she became an alicorn but that was it, just a quick greeting. What was her name… Me A More Than Za? You stare at her upside down with a startled stare. That day, your view wasn’t the only thing that was going to be upside down.     
> Chapter 2: Differene
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Be Cadance

Prince Anonymous Incognito, you never met him personally but met him at your ceremony. Though it was difficult to sift the truth and the rumors about him. His tall stature and fangs were true, so was his tendrils, whatever it was called. You wanted to greet as a fellow royalty but not too snobby, he didn’t look the type to be into the all “Canterlot Elite” vibe. You don’t know much about being a royalty but you do know that nobles don’t simply hang out with the maids and servants. 

“Sweet mother!” Prince Anonymous shouted as he flipped upside down. 

The group of mares you were friends with chuckled, commenting on the fact that the Prince basically called for his mom like a little colt. Can you blame the Prince? It would be weirder by calling her name like the rest of the ponies do. Then again which would be weirder? At least the Prince is still upside with a big smile… weird why would he be- no wait that’s an upside frown. You quickly undo the belts and clasps then catch him before he falls. That was what you had in mind. 

When the belts and clasps release the Prince the weight drags you down with him. Never in your life did you flap your wings as if your life depended on it. The expected pain of the impact didn’t arrive but you definitely heard a thud. You then realized the Prince’s hoofs was wrapped around you.   

“Ow…” Prince Anonymous croaked out. “You alright?”

You quickly get off of him then use then pull him back up with magic. There was a sadder frown on the Prince’s face, you follow his gaze to a sandwich with… what is that pink flappy thing between the bread? 

“Aw haystacks… there goes my sandwich.”

“Prince Anonymous I am so-”

The group you were with swarms you around, asking if anything was injured, implying that it was because of the Prince. You could barely see the prince leaving the area with a heavier forlorn frown. When you finally got out of the crowd the Prince was gone, for a erm… creature large as him to escape so quickly baffled you. It was best to follow him after class to apologize properly.

This was no spying, not at all. You were… observing so you can find the proper timing to apologize. Still, why was he staying inside the library after classes were over? After a long waiting you prepare to enter the library with a well thought out apology. But a white pegasus with blue mane approached him, wearing the same guard armor as the guards in the castle during the day.

“Hey Spearhead.” Anon said cheerfully.

“The carriage arrived your highness, will you be staying here longer or return home?”

Prince Anonymous carried a large bag of books then followed Spearhead. Oh darn it they’re heading this way! You hide behind a pillar then watch as they go.

“Prince Anonymous, did you hear about Baron Gemhoof getting into a heated argument this morning?” Spearhead suddenly said.

Prince Anonymous chuckled. “I didn’t know you liked to listen to gossip.”

Spearhead nodded. “Well , it's just that I think it would’ve been solved if they just talked it out. They finally did but imagine how much time could be saved if they just sat down and talked.”

“Yeah you got a point there. Communication is important.”

Wait wait wait hold on a moment. Did that pegasus just looked back to you? Oh no, he knows you’ve been following him but you didn’t see him. Now he’s going to think you’re some kind of stalker!

Great job Cadance, not only you injured the only Prince in Equestria but his bodyguard now knows you followed him which totally wasn’t stalking. Sweet Celestia what am I gonna do? How am I supposed to face her if she finds out?

Now that you realized you were surprised how little you see Prince Anonymous in the castle. The castle is gigantic but still. You were kind of similar with Prince Anonymous in terms of origin. You lived in the orphanage few years ago until you became an alicorn then moved in to be Celestia’s pupil, she was the mother you never had. Not that orphanage didn’t take care of you, but ten ponies taking care of fifty and sometimes seventy orphans made it near impossible to get continuous attention. For the prince he was found in the garden, parentless and alone. 

“Cadance.”

You flinched at the voice you’ve grown to love. “Princess Celestia!” 

Ok a bit too loud.

“You know that you don’t have to refer to me so formally anymore. How was your first day in the academy?” Celestia asked.

“It was good. Really good and I apologize, I haven’t got accustomed to it yet..” You nervously smile with the answer.

Celestia lightly chuckled. “No need to apologize. Have you seen Prince Anonymous?”

“Oh um! I’ve seen Prince Anonymous yes.” You reply nervously. “I saw him inside the library at the end of class.”

Celestia lightly frowns at your answer. You did leave out him falling off the tree but it wasn’t a lie, you did see him at the library. Celestia pauses for a moment then returned to the conversation. You don’t know what she’s thinking but it looked serious enough to worry you. 

“Cadance, may I request something of you?”

Be Anon.

There was a tower not too far from the main castle, a quiet place just a bit shorter than the astronomy tower. In the evening you enjoyed watching the sunset and the rising of the moon. You have your snacks, books borrowed from the library and a good view, it couldn’t get anymore relaxing. It was like your private sanctum away from judgmental eyes. Except for Umbra, wherever she hidden herself during her shift, but you learned to ignore that. 

An echoing hoofsteps alerts you since there was no servants you called for. You were about to get up to see who it was since no one comes in here frequently but Umbra beat you to the hoof. Seriously where does she hide? You stay where you are and wait.

“Good evening Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, can I help you?”

Your eased posture stiffens up, why on Equestria was she here? It wasn’t like this place was conspicuous. Umbra returns to you to explain the situation, you tell Umbra that she can come up. The nervousness tenses you up more when the hoofsteps got closer. There she was, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, in all glory. You exchange a quick bow with each other. 

“Good evening, Prince Anonymous.” Princess Cadenza said.

“Good evening to you as well Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” You say with matching tone. “May I ask what brings you here?”

“Please, you can just call me Cadance,we’re both royals.” She said gracefully.

“Then please, call me Anon.” You say back.  

Usually the servants and the guards refuses to call you that except for Spearhead. It was only allowed to be used by your mother and aunt. It wasn’t like the name was prohibited but you didn't met any pony close enough other than your family. She looks down on the ground then meets your gaze. There was a crease on her muzzle that made a small but noticeable frown.  

“I just wanted to apologize at the incident in the academy. I shouldn’t have scared you when you were on the tree, especially because you don’t have any wings.”

You wave your hoof dismissively, you couldn’t believe that this was the reason why she came up to you in the evening thought you wonder how she found you. Your body eases up to your usual stance then kneel to meet her eyes, it was best to have a good eye contact when speaking with ponies. Having naturally large body, you had to make yourself non-threatening.

“Cadance, there is nothing to apologize for. It was an accident.” You say with a casual shrug. “I forgot about it before you mentioned it to me.”

“A-are you sure?”

“I guess you do owe me a sandwich.” You said as a joke.

“How about we get lunch tomorrow at the cafeteria?” Cadance offered.

You stiffen up again, scooting away from her to avoid eye contact as much as possible. The last time you went to the cafeteria was the first day of school, the frightened and stern glare were enough for you to run out. They didn’t have to speak, their body did for them. Since then you realized it was better to eat alone and not be bothered, you did try to return after an encouragement from mom but you ended up having apple sauces flung at you by the colt from a family of knights. To them, that colt was the hero and you the monster. It took hours to convince Spearhead to not report it.

“I’m good.” 

“Are you sure? I’m certain that-”

“Really, I’m good. Thank you for asking.”

“It’ll be fun Anon, I can introduce you to my-”

Your hindlegs shot up, immediately towering over Cadance in height. Being almost six and a half hoof tall intimidated any ponies you spoke with. A reason why you did your best to look least threatening as possible. Though the Generals you spoken to wish you were present in negotiations, since the ponies weren’t the tallest creatures to be intimidating. It worked wondrously when you didn’t want to be spoken to, except for Umbra, Spearhead, and mom. 

Cadance stepped away, fear present on her face. You ignore her reaction then gather your books and snacks, you make the artificial smile you use when speaking with other nobles or in a party, your voice also changes to accompany the smile. 

“It was pleasant to speak with you Princess Cadance, I bid you goodnight.”  

Whatever Cadance says is into one ear then to the next. You make a wide stride with your legs to ditch Cadance, then you remember she had wings. Darn it, this only works with earth ponies. Cadance flies ahead then stops in your track.

“Prince Anonymous I apologize if I offended you back there. Will you be willing for tea tomorrow then, with just you and I? I received some lovely jasmine tea.” Cadance says, it seems genuine enough.

“And where exactly?” 

“At the gardens after class.”

An internal sigh of annoyance nearly passes through your lips if not for etiquette teaching thoroughly imbedded in your head. Tea, you never liked tea to be honest, it was just hot water with flavors you couldn’t taste. Not to mention the etiquette required to even lift the china! Having tea with any nobles implied a favor or currying in a favor, you hated it but denying the invitation was uncouth of a noble.

“Tea sounds…” bREATHE iN and out. “Lovely.”

There was a beaming smile that could shine the world. “Excellent, then I’ll see you tomorrow Anon.”

“You too.” 

The gazebo at the garden was emptier than usual since not many ponies come here, except for a few that comes around to admire the flowers. This time however, there were more ponies than you liked. The ponies watched from afar watching you and Candance drinking tea. You might as well believed that noponies here ever drank tea in their lives.

Sitting across from Cadance you sip on the tea daintedly. You silently enjoy the surrounding nature, there was a difference between awkward silence and quiet serenity. As you speak with her, every sentence remained in you thoughts before spoken. With so many ponies around anything you say had an extension of royal authority, despite not having any. One time as a child you thought 

You and Cadance discuss different topics. Politics, history, math, and daily life in the castle. Now that you have realized the question from last night reemerged.

“If you don’t mind me asking Cadance, how did you know where I was?” 

“Oh um… one of the servants guided me to where you stay.” Cadance says. 

“Is that so? That’s strange because-” 

“Your royal highnesses!” 

That voice, like a high pitch squeal of a pig mixed with a prolonged scratch of a chalk board the voice grinded against your ears. Seriously, why does he have to sound like that? Nevertheless, you hold your sigh as Gold Platinum stands behind the guards.

“Is that your friend Anon?” Cadance asked.

“You can say that.” You say tiredly.

The guards allowed Gold Platinum to enter the gazebo after a curt nod from Cadance and you. There was no sense of reservation from that pony, gladly taking a seat as he brought a chair himself with his magic. He even went far enough to lift his tea cup for you to pour it.

“Oh your royal highness there’s no need to!” 

You’d rather pour the tea than let Cadance do it. The satisfaction of having a royal pour tea was going to be denied since it had a bigger meaning than one pony might think. Unlike you, Cadance was an actual royalty, probably going to rule an empire or a kingdom. Somepony that had a better future than you will. You’ll be damned if you let that prissy jerk have that satisfaction. 

“Thank you.” Gold Platinum stated flatly then it returns to a Canterlot snob tone. “So Princss Mi Amore Cadenza, how are you liking Canterlot?”

“It’s a lovely place." Cadance said. 

"Yes, I heard you are originally from Manehatten. I heard it’s quite the city. Where did you live? No doubt for a destined to be alicorn pony somewhere decadent.” Gold Platinum asked.

“Nothing of the sort. I was raised in an orpha-”

NOPE. Not only knowing Gold Platinum but the nobles in general saying something like that would make the scrutinization MUCH worse. You make the loudest cough from your lungs. One was enough to have Spearhead rush to you aid. Or not… that lazy jerk, out of all the time you needed him. Cadance went to your side quickly, good, this will be the perfect opportunity to make leave.

“Prince Anon, are you alright?” Cadance asked.

“Just fine, Princess Cadenza.”

On the bright side it seems that the tutor of hers did remind her not to refer each other on a first name basis in the public. You never did like the unspoken rules of the nobility, but just like everyone else you had to play the game, especially you. Before anything else could happen Spearhead flew over.

“Your highness are you alright?” 

Spearhead was a great guardspony, somepony that understood you and well… your friend. But if you had to trust his acting skill to save your life you were better off making peace. You gave him an irked glance of “You still suck at this”, in which Spearhead replied with a shrug. You wish your cousin Blueblood is here. Yes he can be super snobby but he  knew what to do in situations like these. He could insult a pony in a compliment and they’ll thank him for it. Mother forbids his father comes. Even the generals respected him.  

“I am and I wish to leave. Princess Cadenza would you mind accompanying me?” You ask.

“Of course Prince Anon.” 

In the carriage ride back home you saw the ire of Gold Platinum. He wasn’t the bully that many think of. He couldn’t beat you, he just loved to torment and humiliate you in the most subtle ways possible. Since most ponies here were your classmates in first grade they knew all the inside jokes. You hate it but you were a royalty, you had to act the part and not let it bother you. 

“Cadance, how much did you learn about royal etiquette?” You ask.

“I just started, I’m just getting the basics.” Cadance said.

“Then you know pouring the tea to other than a royal family signifies a deep bond.” You say sternly. “Not to mention, if you mention you’re from an orphanage there might be more scrutiny in the future.”

“I… didn’t know that. Thank you.” Cadance said sincerely. “I thought they knew about my background already.”

“I’m sure they do, but The less you talk about it the better.”

“Why?”

You let out a sigh deeper than you imagined. It’s always been this way and the only time it will change was when your mom would be present. When was the last time you had a meal or even seen her?  

“Because if you’re different they will judge you. Always have always will.” 

“I won’t.” Cadance said with a heartfelt conviction. 

“Thank you.”

She clapped her hooves together. “Anon, how about you and I explore the castle tomorrow? I bet you know all the fun places.”

Well, you knew where to hide from the crowds but you weren’t sure of “fun” places. Now that you think about it you were stuck inside the library most of the time. You were about to say no but… you couldn’t say no to that pleading face. 

You weakly smiled. “Alright.”
> Chapter 3: Castle Tours
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The castle was something to many ponies to be this holy site. Anypony who worked here long enough can tell who’s the newest servant. That and when they shriek when they see you is also a big sign. The touring goes pretty smoothly as Cadance takes in the architect of the room. The buttresses, pillars, even some of the old doors made long ago. While not many ponies knew when the old areas were made you made sure to never ask your mom again. Being reminded how old she is was something you didn’t want to do. The bakers begged you not to do it. Once was enough. Sweet world, you could still remember the smell of icing and pastries that day.

 Cadance took in every history you know about each room. Spearhead followed you and Cadance behind. At times like these you forget how quiet he can be. The first place was the garden. Even the non-pony folks enjoyed the garden. Except the Yaks, or the Griffons, Dragons, ok it wasn’t like as much as you wanted to admit. 

“I’m guessing you’ve already been to the royal garden?”

“Only for a short while.” Cadance said as she took in the atmosphere. “It’s really beautiful here.”

“There’s a gazebo here, follow me.” 

The maze of the garden was a peculiar spot for a newcomer. For one they needed a map to navigate if they weren’t a pegasus. All you needed to was just slightly tip toe to see the exit. At moments like these you realize your differences weren’t that bad. It's practical too. 

Cadance sat across and she took in the surroundings like a little colt in a candy shop. Milkshakes or cider sounded a hundred times better than some hot leaf juice. Unfortunately within the castle ground where eyes are on you there wasn’t much of a choice. That was one good thing about the garden, it was an unspoken rule that only the royals got to use the gazebo.   

“So did you get your royal duties yet?” Anon asked.

“Not yet, I admit it’s a bit daunting to think about it.” Cadance said. “How is your royal duty, I’m sure it’s- are you alright Anon?”

You quickly ease your face back into the usual calm expression. It’s not that you hated your duty, but it was a pain in the flank. 

“I apologize. It’s just, it’s been stressful lately.”

“Is it that bad?”

You sigh, louder than you thought it would be. The last thing you want to do is to scare off the newest royal family.

“It’s not that, I’m just dealing with some a problem the moment.” 

“What kind of problem?” Cadance questioned further curiously.

“Internal squabbling between a noble and a general. One wants to lower military spending and the other wants to increase it. The next budget isn’t going to be settled if we don’t get this done.” You smile, albeit a hastily made one. “Royal duty isn’t like that all the time. Trust me. You’ll be fine.” 

The second floor that ruled the royal court was mostly empty since all business was conducted on the first floor. Though it is filled when it gets extremely busy. There she was, your mother solving issues effortlessly. One day, you will be like her, even if it’s a tiny fragment you would be satisfied. Cadance looked down with just as much reverence.

“She sure is amazing.” Cadance said.

You nod. “She is. No pony can be regal and wise as her. No matter how hard I try I can never be like her. I’ll always be in her shadow.”   

“Didn’t you recently negotiate with the dragons?”

“That’s different Cadance.” You say with a sigh. “That’s just part of my royal duty, to ensure peace between all creatures.” 

“That’s still brave Anon. I think you have your own way to shine like everyone else does.” 

Shine huh? 

“Thank you Cadance.” 

The talk eventually flowed to different topics and after the tea was finished you continued on. The staff greeted you as they passed by, exchanging pleasantries along the way. 

“Do you know every staff’s name?” Cadance asked.

“Of course, they work here so it’s my royal duty to know.” 

That was a lie of course, you only know their names because you used still escape to the staff room when you see a group of nobles are searching for you. As the tour went on you see a familiar group, for what it seems to be arguing. Crabapples they saw you.

“Let’s go see the kitchen.” You quickly say.

“What’s going on?” 

“I’ll answer you later follow me!” You sharply whispered.

Among the routes in the castle you knew the best way to escape and as always found your way to the staff room, more specifically the staff room for the ponies that worked in the mess hall. 

“Whew.” 

You let out a sigh of relief once you made it down. The ponies down here was used to your appearance here. Tartarus, they reserve a spot for you because it’s so frequent. 

“Running from your duties again your highness?” 

“I prefer the term, resting before engaging with royal duties.” You correct them quickly.

A pleasant giggle caught your attention, it was Cadance. It was good to see her smile, not the porcelain kind that you see everyday.   

“If I didn’t know better I would’ve thought you were a different pony from the academy.”

You scoff lightly. “That’s because I only go there a few times a year.” 

The servants hoofs you and Cadance tea.

“So, how did you like the castle?”

Cadance beams enthusiastically. “It was wonderful! I can’t believe you get to live here! Though I admit it’s going to take a while to get used to navigating.”

“Just start making a mental map from your room.” 

Wait what’s that face? Cadance looked away then back to you, then looked down to her cup then back up to you, slightly flustered looking.

“Maybe I can have my room set near to yours to make navigating easier?”

Wait what. Act cool.

“Um uh… sure.” 

NAilED iT. 

The next morning you woke up tired. Cadance, a new royalty that didn’t know much of her way around the royal etiquette. You couldn’t help but think about her. How much of a fresh air of change she was. It’s been a while since you met a pony that didn’t have a filter.

With a triple espresso in hand you gather the parchments for the day. As you walk out of your room after a quick shower you noticed Cadance coming out at the same time.

“Cadance what are you doing up so early?” 

“Morning Anon…” She yawned, a big one at that. “Since you and Princess Celestia also wake up early I thought the least I could do is do the same. Maybe I can help, if you need it.” 

This pony. You couldn’t help but smile. Maybe with her around the daily grind wouldn't be that bad, until she leaves that is. The thought of it kills your mood if not for her presence.  

“The castle could always use an extra hoof.” 
> Chapter 4: Anon and The Dimly Lit Candle
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Walking along with Cadance the morning air was chilly, and you could see the leaves slowly changing to amber. It wasn’t fall yet, but you saw the beginning of it. You yawn again, eyes more leadened and body feeling even more sluggish. Cadance on the other hoof seemed chipper well once the topic of breakfast came up. 

“Where are you going?”

Cadance turned around, with an expression of innocence. “To the cafeteria to get breakfast, where else would I go Anon?”

Usually, you would eat there. As you gained more responsibilities (and took on more voluntarily) the chance to eat with your mother diminished. Getting food in the cafeteria was quick as well when the dining room took hours. You wish for the days when you ate with your mother, but you weren’t a colt anymore.   

“Now that you’re a royal you can’t eat there.” 

“Why not, don’t you do it?”

“That’s where the staff eat. You’re new here so other ponies won’t know how to act around you. It generally bothers them.” 

“Oh.” There was a dejected look on her face.

The feeling of being a jackass wasn’t lost on you. The guilt gnawed but never pierced your composure.

“Once they get used to you it’s fine. For now, it’s best to act royal.” 

“Well, since I’m with you wouldn’t other ponies be calm with your presence? That and how am I supposed to introduce myself if I can’t at all?” 

She does have a point. No time like the present, that and you have too many tasks to deal with to argue with her. Sooner you put caffeine in your body the better. A bad habit? Yes. Coffee was like cake to your mother, an addiction that you refuse to admit. 

“Why not…” 

Inside the cafeteria the early morning crew were somewhat startled from the beginning. It was either their fatigue or their acclimation of royals they were quickly used to it. Cadance got herself oatmeal with cinnamon toppings with some juice. If you replaced the orange juice with apple this was the same breakfast you had as a child. It felt like yesterday when you and your mother shared the table in the morning. Looking back she probably did it despite her list of duties. You noticed Cadance looking at your mug of coffee. 

“Is that all you’re going to have?” 

“I have this apple. It’s better than nothing, I’ll be fine.”

You keep forgetting to find out where these apples came from, wherever it was you needed to make some award to give them. Though you do wish the size could be a bit bigger, it only took about three or two bites to finish it all with your mouth. As you finish chomping on the last bits you notice Cadance staring at you, eyes wide and mouth slightly ajar. You bite into the apple again.

“Cadance?” 

“Oh!” Cadance was out of her apparent trance. “I uhm… I was just wondering if it must be hard going around the castle with your height.” 

“You get used to it after you get a bruise on your forehead.” 

You chuckled, but seriously you wished all the doors were taller. If you don’t pay attention you would have a bruise that’d last a week or two. While Cadance was finishing her breakfast you flipped through the checklist of things needed to be done. Most were settling disputes of internal matters. Settle the budget matter in the Branch meeting, public safety of a forest known as Everfree Forest, judiciary matters, and most likely where to start the road construction. Sweet Hearth Warming, this was a lot of work.

“You might want to finish that up, we got work to do. We need to settle the dispute between the Ministry of Finance and the Army today. So you might not want to be on a full stomach.”

Cadance cocked her head in confusion. “Why not?”

“Being on full stomach makes you sleepier.” You answered, sipping on the triple espresso. Sweet Hearth Warming, it tasted awful. “Trust me, these meetings will bore you to sleep. Are you sure you’ll be ready?”

Cadance smiled. “Always.” 


Be Cadance.

And you weren’t ready. Not because it was some daunting task, or something so absurd, or even frightening. It was boring. Really bucking boring. The kind of boring where you’d prefer to watch the grass grow. In the thick of it Anonymous was there, trying to compromise between the two ponies. It was boring, but also lethal. A poison that creeps up with you, where it strikes before you even know it. This wasn’t some thrilling adventure that had Equestrria hang in the balance. Yet, this meeting held the same level of significance.

“Domestic matters take more precedence, General. The likelihood of war is almost non-existent and magical threats have not been seen since the defeat of Discord. There is such a thing as over prepared.” 

“With all due respect Minister, I disagree. A kingdom at its most peaceful opens up vulnerability. Lest I remind you of the past. Let us also not forget the changelings.”

“The past is the past. We are looking at the future of our kingdom.” Minister Stock said.

“Those who do not heed the tragedies of the past are doomed to repeat it, Minister.” The General replied, with a sharp glare of a pony that have seen countless battlefield.

The tension in the air was thick, stifling to those who were merely brought along to carry papers. You pitied the poor ponies. The ponies in the seat however didn’t seem bothered by it, they looked tired of it more than anything. As the quiet battle of words went on it all ended as Anonymous clapped his hand three times. A sound that easily overtook hoof stomping. 

“General Ironhoof, Minister Stock, I believe that is enough for now.” Anonymous inputted. “While I do see the decrease in Army funding from the past years to be troubling. From Ms. Diplomat’s report from the Ministry of Foreign Kingdom Affairs, there has been no foreign hostility for the past years or any upheavals. I can understand that at its most peaceful we are vulnerable, General Ironhoof. However, it is also the kingdom's duty to govern the ponies that allowed us to operate from their tax.”

“Then, Prince Anonymous. If you can understand, will it not be a better investment to increase the budget for the future? Our forces must be ready at all times.” Ironhoof questioned.

“The experimental forces were already prepared in the previous rapid deployment test from previous reports and that was possible from an increase of funds from last year. The fund will allocate to domestic matters. As requested by Minister Stock the Army will have twelve percent decrease as of the next financial year. As for the issue of-”

The timer rang, interrupting his next words until it was turned off. The ponies yawned and the tension in the air finally loosened. Anonymous on the other hoof began to neatly organize the parchment into his folders.     

 “As for the issue of the budget, the Ministry of Magic will be addressed tomorrow. This meeting is adjourned.” 

It was finally over. You stretch once everyone left, and Anon was massaging his eyes. You on the other hoof are about to drop. Then Anon stands up, stretches then leaves the room, prompting you to follow him.

“You alright?”

“Yes, I just didn’t expect to be- you know...” You raise your hoof as you tried to find a way to not sound like a silly foal.

“Boring?”

“Boring.”  

You and Anon share a short laugh, then attend the next set of business. By the end, the monotony sapped away your energy. While you dragged your hoof Anon was in his office, looking over a new set of parchments to be processed. No po- maybe his species was just hardy or Anon was just a workaholic. Maybe both. Princess Celestia was also like that. 

“So what’s next?” 

Anon looked through his clipboard. “Let’s see… some judiciary matters and road constructions. Yeah that’s about it today. I think we can rest by the late evening!”   

“B-by the late evening? But we only have two more things to do.” 

“Well, those are what it needs to be done today. This list excludes the usual work that follows after.”

Maybe you should’ve just slept in.

You are still Cadance, and you are beginning to doubt the royalty life you saw in magazines. There were no elegant rooms or chambers, instead you and Anon went through a dusty basement of old parchments. Extravagant meals? HAH! All you had was an apple for lunch. Speaking poshly with the nobles of society? It was instead some engineer talking full of jargons.

Inside Anon’s office you lay on the couch, finally catching some break as he went through more parchment work. By the look of the pile you weren’t sure if he could finish it by next morning. No ponies haven’t heard of the prince but seeing him up close was something else. You couldn’t help but to agree with some of the exaggerated hit pieces on Anon. Not against his character, but his appearance. Eyes in front to focus on a prey in a chase. Burly body made to wrestle and grab. The most focused feature was his canine fangs and the rumored jaw pressure that could chew bones. It didn’t help when he got along with dragons and griffin ambassadors more than other species, not to mention there was a picture of him wrestling against a yak.

Those muscles… now that was worth an article. You glanced toward Anon. Seeing him work, forced you to release a long drawn out yawn. You look at Anon again, locking in eye contact. You feel your cheeks flush. If there was a hole you wanted to crawl inside it and never come out. You, the mare that didn’t do any work at all yawned as if you did anything useful today. All you did was tag along like some ditzy tourist!  

“First day is always tough, trust me.” Anon said with a chuckle.

“Heh heh heh… sorry. Don’t worry Anon I’ll stay up with you. What kind of princess would I be if I can’t stay up this long in the future?”

“Foal steps Cadance. You can’t be a ruler in a single day you know.”

Anon shifts some paper then dips his quill in the ink. The dim lit room didn’t help your drowsiness, and the couch was really soft. You saw Anon’s mouth move and heard his voice. Yet, you didn’t comprehend what he said at all. What was Anon saying again? And why was it getting so dark? No, focus Cadance. Make some conversations. That’ll keep you awake!

“Uh- so how was your first day like, Anon?”

His smooth skin was bathed in the amber fire, he placed his quill to his side. You watched his forehooves(?) stretch. There was a subtle line of his muscles, the one you read on the magazines. Even in the dimmed room you saw a bitter frown.

“Well you know how the nobles can be. If they see something that’ll threaten their power they’ll start plotting to block you even before you start.”

“Is it that bad?”

“It’ll be easier since you’re a pony- alicorn, I meant alicorn” Anon pinched the bridge of his nose. “Please excuse me, I’m more fatigued than I imagined. The pile of shi- nonsense I had to deal with. You know how noble ponies can be when facing something they don’t understand.” 

“But you’re a prince.” You reasoned. 

Anon chuckled sardonically. “That’s not gonna stop them. Let’s be honest here, I’ll never be accepted, I’m nothing but a charity case. No matter what feat I accomplish I will never be seen as one of your kind.”

“Anon I-”

“If it’s going to be some half baked apology I don’t want to hear it.” 

Silence, Anon’s mouth was hung open then closed with an audible snap. The few seconds felt like hours. Anon groaned as he massaged his temple, he sighed then looked at you. There was a look of regret and fatigue. He was a pony too tired to amend his mistake with haste but regretting with a guilt that weighed thrice as more than it really should be. A long sigh escaped his lips.

“Forgive me, that was verily impertinent of me. It’s late, you should be going back to your room.”

“Anon I’m not offended by it. It’s fine really.”

You admit, the biting words surprised you. Comparing Anon's curt words to high school insults you had, his words were nothing. Not even juvenile.

“Even so I apologize. I believe it’s best if you retire for the day. Umbra, would you mind escorting Princess Cadance back to her room?”

From the corners you saw the glowing eyes of the batpony. You knew she was there but to see her up close was something else. This was the first time seeing a batpony up close. There were only a few that stayed in Equestria after the banishment of Princess Luna. That fascination had to be shelved for later sadly. You left the office, and for the last time of the day you looked at Anon one last time. He was inside his dimly lit office, with parchments to be his company. The dimly lit candle only illuminated his surrounding area, guided by a fire that could be snuffed by a light wind. If the only guiding light was snuffed out... where would he be then?