> A Royal Awakening > by Valeomega > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1 prologue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Earth A young man could be seen working behind a computer with a cup of coffee and a Luna Figurine nearby. Suddenly the phone rang and the young man answered. "Hey Henry. How is our what did you call it platform coming for the company?" A female voice asked at the phone. "It's going well boss. I already finished the Queries to update our existing Database. Added Account logic for each branch of the company and implemented the mail and barcode scanners. The Platform is coming together well I only need to finish the web-shop integration and add a content management system to our website and then I'll go and hit the hay" Henry said smiling at the thought of finally being done. "Alright just make sure when its done to set it up and that its self explanatory so you can enjoy your time off with your private projects during your month off."Henry his boss replied at the phone. "Don't worry I made it simple to use and I will I got a show I gotta catch up to." Henry said as he continued the finishing touches to the new platform for his job and pushed the changes to the database and web server while making the client for the company getting install network wide for his boss "And it's done and the clients are installing on the company pc's. The employees should get their login's now in case they got to work from home they can. I do feel sorry for the finance department their workload but I'm done." Henry answered. "You're a lifesaver Henry. Getting it build externally would have cost us a lot enjoy your payed vacation." Henry his boss said before hanging up the phone. "Finally freedom!!" Henry shouted in ecstasy as he left his office at home and continued towards his bedroom feeling spent and quickly laying on it falling asleep with his clothes on. Meanwhile in Equestria Canterlot Luna her beautiful night had already fallen. Most ponies were already sound asleep but at this normally quiet and peaceful hours within a more narrow and secluded street of Canterlot voices could be heard. "Did you take care of the pathetic excuse of a noble?" A mare said within the dark street. "Yes the pathetic excuse of a prince will be taking care of it himself as his Exquisite desire for high quality wine before sleeping and his own personality that would prevent him from sharing it with others will be his undoing. Even if he survives he will either be a vegetable or insane. So he will no longer be able to foil your endeavors. Though I thought you ponies were all harmonious and against harming others" The deep raspy voice replied to the mare. "Most of us are but when it comes to politics and the nobility we can be rather ruthless especially when dealing with someone so insufferable as him though he was a useful pawn for as long as it lasted."The mare replied as she ended her transaction with the deeply voiced stranger who's only response was to laugh as they left with their payment. Within Canterlot Castle Royal Visitor Chambers Blueblood took a sip of wine while he layed in bed as he drank the magic that kept the wine glass levitating began to go out of control as Blueblood gained a major headache and sweat attack. Blueblood's magic went out of control as he slipped into a pain induced coma. As sparks flew from the poor stallion's horn in his futile attempts to get a hold of something while his body starts to feel colder his magic gripped the wineglass to strongly making it shatter this alerted the Lunar guard. Two thestrals of the Lunar guard ran into Blueblood's bedroom and put the castle on Alert. Because of the castle being put on alert the news quickly spread in the castle. A Lunar guard rushed to princess Luna "Your highness Prince Blueblood has fallen gravely ill" "What is my nephew doing now he is probably looking to be pampered by some of the female guards" Luna responded to the Lunar guard. "I don't think so your highness his magic is going rampant and he is sweating a lot. The guards that found him noticed a shattered wine glass on his bed. Normally the court physician should be arriving any moment but its best to to cancel night court in case this isn't one of his tricks" The lunar guard said "Very well we will go see my nephew his condition myself as well and we will cancel the remainder of night court." Luna said annoyed thinking this was one of Blueblood his attempts to gain attention. How dare they not check the beverages brought into the castle I should fire that that useless maid who gets my beverages. Blueblood thought as he tries to cling to life while he feels as if he is being burned alive from the inside out his magic trying to grasp at anything he can use to cling to life. Luna and the Lunar Guards accompanied with the court physician enter Blueblood his room but are unable to get closer because of the still uncontrollable magical discharge coming from Blueblood's horn? "Oh dear. Here I thought Blueblood was pulling our tails again" the court physician looked worried at the current condition Blueblood was in."Your highness I might need your help to calm his mind so he stops with the magical discharge before he burns himself out and so we can stabilize him" The court physician said towards Princess Luna. "We will aid thee with helping our nephew."Luna said as her horn glowed blue as she tried to first hold back her nephew's magic as she tries to go within his mind but Blueblood magic mingled slightly with that of Luna and Blueblood his eyes glowed in a magical overcharge. Meanwhile on earth within Henry his dreams "Hmm so another lucid dream Alright. Hmm what should I think of. I was going to finish watching my little pony and then either play some games or continue working on my side projects but not like I remember most of what I dream." Henry walked around a beautiful grassy hill within his dreams until he felt strange and dreadful before a all to familiar pony appeared within his dream. "You malformed Minotaur help me" Blueblood demanded from Henry. "So the annoying thing in my dream is one of my most hated characters of my little pony. How annoying" Henry said as he stepped closer and thought of the pony disappearing. "What are you doing you bald monkey as Prince of Equestria I demand your Aid" the now transparent Blueblood bellowed as Henry was being surrounded in the golden hew of Blueblood his horn. This caused Henry more discomfort as he also started to sweat but luckily no pain just discomfort. "This Bald monkey is trying to control his dreams to kick you out. Normally this works why won't your head blowup."Henry said annoyed Back within Blueblood's chambers Luna had Finally stopped the major magic surges from Blueblood and it seemed her nephew was more stable but still sweating. "It seems thine attempt to latch on to something has calmed thou nephew but thine mind isn't here with thine body." Luna said as she attempted to look within Blueblood's mind only to feel a active spell coming from Blueblood. "Hmm he seems more stable now let's see" The Physician walked towards her Patient and noticed the broken wine glass and its stain she uses a spell to identify the liquid and have a worried expression. "Princess Luna. Your nephew has been poisoned. I'll need to take care of him but alchemy isn't my strong suit. I recognize its poisonous properties but I can not imagine the other effects on it" The court Physician said in a worried voice. "Thee need not worry Tender Care. Thine Princess will call an expert" Luna Said as she tried to pull Blueblood Back withing his mind through the spell that was still active. Back within Henry his dreams "How dare you even wish my head to explode. Do you not know who I am?" Blueblood said as he became more transparent but then a blue hue covers both Blueblood and Henry causing them both to overlap as they get pulled through what seems like a blue gateway. "What the hell this fucking hurts. You can't feel pain in your dreams" Henry said as he and Blueblood got pulled through the blue gateway. Later Within the Canterlot Castle medical wing Within the Castle medical wing Celestia and Luna were discussing near Blueblood his sick bed while "Sister, Our cousin may not be the best but this was an attack on the royal family' Luna said furious "I understand dear sister but without any suspects we cannot act and our first priority must be to ensure the safety of our ponies and family. Not to go looking through our nephew his list of enemies and transgressions to see who could get the poison."Celestia answered kindly as she tries to calm her sister. A lunar guard came in with a salute "Princesses, Miss Zecora has arrived at the castle." The guard announced. "Very well you may bring her in" Celestia said in her soft motherly voice. Zecora trotted in and bowed to the princesses "No matter how late the hour may be. I hope I can help you your majesty. Though since it is so late during the night something must surely not be right" Zecora spoke in rhyme "Yes, it is a rather frightening reason we asked you here. I've heard from my student you are good with herbal remedies and potions. Our nephew has been poisoned I was wondering if you could help?" "Celestia asked Zecora Luna and Tender Care can give you the details of what we already know and we have a detailed report on his current vitals" Luna and Tender Care Explained to Zecora what happened until now. "I know which poison ails your prince indeed. But full recovery is never guaranteed. This poison is for dead and gloom designed but if that fails it will harm his mind. Thou it might not seem ideal with the herbs I will brew it might heal. Though I do not know who he has crossed even if he comes back his memory might be lost" Zecora said rhyming as she wrote a recipe for a potion. "We thank thee Zecora" Luna said a little more hopeful. "What would be best after Blueblood consumes the potion" Tender Care asked Zecora "For all patients I suggest. Lot of care and Tender rest. As it is the best for me now I shall return to the Everfree"Zecora said before leaving. Location Unkown "Where the hell am I now and why do I feel like like shit"Henry looked around confused as the now still transparent Blueblood was near him in a pitch black void "What have you done vile Ape where are we and what have you done to me!! Why is my beautiful visage transparent peasant fix it" Blueblood demanded. "ME!! I did nothing Blueballs" Henry shouted back at him but then he looked confused "Uhm Royal Ass did you also hear faint rhyming " "My name is Prince Blueblood you vile nave. Not Blueballs or Royal ass. I would have you lose your lively good for this you vile creature" Blueblood shouted at Henry. "But no I did not I do not feel anything either so using you as an anchor must have worked." Blueblood said as he became even more transparent which caused him to shout in shock "Fix this Peasant. As Prince of Equestria I demand you fix my predicament at any cost!!" "Wow call down your highness. One I got no clue whats going o--- Henry got interrupted as he tasted a vile taste--- Blegh what the actual Fuck was that taste" Henry looked around confused in the blackish void but noticed blue blood was slowly floating through nothing towards him against the ponies will it seemed since Blueblood started to struggle and try and regain a distance between both of them. "What are you doing you demon spawn. What are you attempting!!" Blueblood said as he struggled to try and get away but to no avail as the two this time overlapped a big flash lit the dark void they stood in. "Where did blue balls go" Henry said as he grabbed his head after the flash but he noticed something he had no hand but a hoof "No No No No No" Henry said as horror struck his heart. "Why do I look like Blueballs and --he gained a bigger migraine as the last memories of Blueblood the telekinetic grasp on the wine glass onto the hole instinctual grasping at something to live through magic ran through his head causing Henry to scream in pain. "Fucking hell what the fuck did prince dumb ass do to get that treatment and where the Hell am I"Henry said as he stumbled where ever he was in utter shock and alone. The next morning In the Canterlot Medical Wing Luna came to check on Blueblood before she went to sleep and noticed Blueblood's horn glow its normal golden glow but the magic was cast on impulse and felt heavy as if out of confusion loneliness and fear. "Thou might be a bad spoiled noble brat nephew but thou doesn't deserve what thou mind is putting you through" Luna said comfortingly as her horn glowed as she did this the dark void where Henry was in seemed to light up once and Caused Blueblood to open his eyes in shock. "Where am I?"Henry said in utter confusion as he then noticed Luna and that he now had Blueblood his voice. Oh shit it's Luna. Ok act normal Henry. Get your head straight. You had the most weirdest thing happen to you. And you are now looking and the princess of the night. "Uhm forgive me for asking this Miss but I'm unsure if you are a byproduct of me possibly falling into insanity or not. Could you maybe tell me where I am and who you are."Henry said looking at Princess Luna "Nephew are thou pulling my tail. If so thou art being too cruel for you made many ponies worry about you"Luna said sternly. "Nephew?"Henry said confused and then started to connect the dots as he noticed he was in a hospital bed then his gaze fell on two Solar Guards who were guarding the entrance "Hmm Miss did you just call me nephew? I am sorry,I don't mean to be rude but I think I would remember growing up with somepony like you around me." Henry sounding sincere. The Solar Guards their jaw just fell to the floor and looked in shock. This caused Luna to rush at Henry and feel his head "Did thou just appologize? Thou are not pulling my tail. Blueblood Art thou alright?"Luna asked worried about her nephews current condition. "Well I can feel you touch my head so this is not a fever dream or some sickness. And yes I just apologized I mean I do not know what is going on but even if this isn't the side effects of me losing grips on my sanity on that off chance I should be polite. I guess the pain and torturous agony after remembering drinking some Wine and the black void with the talking Unicorn within it then taking its apperance wasn't just some messed up dream." Henry said calmly Ok I better play the dumb confused part. Ugh lying towards Luna hurts my heart but I better not get any unwanted attention. Maybe then I can piece things together. Lying to our aunties isn't a good thing to do a childlike voice rang out withing Henry his head or was it Blueblood's What the buck was that. A child's voice ok I want out of this I don't like it "Art thou alright nephew thou seemed distracted?" Luna asked worryingly "I'm fine no need to worry just had a strange child like voice whisper within my head so I guess insanity isn't of the table." Henry said jokingly "Thou art probably having side effects of the poison and the magical outburst you had nephew. The poison used on you has side effects for those who survive it but thou seems sound of mind considering the possibility" Luna said patting Henry his mane. "So I got poisoned and my mind is affected and how did you think I was pulling your tail before. Honestly who would joke about something like that. It's something one shouldn't do." Henry said in irritation The royal Guards started whispering to each other "Are you sure he hasn't been replaced with a changeling?" Luna first have the guards a stern glance then her glance turned soft as she looked at Henry "Thou did many things ponies would find unfitting of a pony or one of nobility." Luna said trying to bait a reaction out of Henry to see if Blueblood wasn't playing a game his blown up ego and delusions of what he should be allowed to do would come through. "Just Bucking great. I'm insane and an ass. And I can't even remember it" Henry said in annoyance as instinctively his nostrils blared out wind in irritation. The Royal Guards just laughed at the sight not expecting The Prince to compare himself with a ill mannered donkey. "Nephew Language!" Luna said sternly scolding Henry. "What? It's not like I have a good image to uphold considering what I've been told and its not like I'm anypony special. Heck from what I hear I sound like a uncultured and uncaring swine and my headache isn't helping with my mood." Henry said before sighing in defeat and laying down "Thou art correct there nephew but thine opinion on thine actions even if thou doesn't know the details of them is a good sign maybe thou can improve and try and redeem thine reputation so thou won't be seen as a sad excuse of a prince"Luna said giving Henry a hug as she casts a pain relieve spell on his head. "Me a prince?" Henry laughed hysterically "Seriously now I wonder if you are pulling my leg or if you are my aunt since no way in Tartarus is there any chance what you described me as fits as a prince"Henry said in disbelief I am so freaking lucky Applejack isn't here if she can tell when ponies are lying. Then I'd probably be getting a major hit in my face In the hallway outside the sound of hooves trotting on a marble floor could be heard Luna broke the hug and looked worried at Henry "Nephew thou remembers sayings but not thine own title or history correct?" Luna asked worryingly "Well only thing I remember looking and sounding like a pony was well doing this" Henry mimicked how it felt in the memory to use a telekinesis spell and grabbed a nearby glass " Oh and a lot of pain" Henry said as he got up from the bed still feeling sore and weak as he tries to get out of bed standing wobbly on his four hooves "Ok walking is going to be an issue? Uhm.... If I am a prince I have guards or servants right I don't mean to give them more issues then I did when I had memories but could I gain some pointers how to walk maybe train my aching muscles within a pool to lessen the stress while I'm being brought to speed since whoever poisoned me is probably going to strike again and I would rather be safe then sorry" Henry said with a worried expression as he walked wobbly on his four hooves before falling on his flank. DAMN this Four legged BS and buck these weak legs "Ooh I would have to ask my sist--- Luna got interrupted as Princess Celestia came in with Tender Care-- "You needn't worry sister. I have heard your discussion with our Nephew and according to Tender Care he should remain to rest so they can treat him so his escapades will have to wait"Celestia aid kindly "Another Aunt also with wing and horns well that's just strange. Also isn't there a quick solution to fix my weakened state?" Henry asked "Well there is but you already went through so much. The damage to your muscles by the poison combined with the strain your magical outburst had on your body using potent potions would be rather painful on you" Tender care exclaimed "Well give me the potent stuff Doctor. I don't care if I feel like Ive been trampled by buffaloes. If it works better and faster then give me the medicine"Henry said The Royal guards once again looked in shock at what they heard. "Are you sure nephew?" Celestia asked in a kind caring motherly tone. "It might be the most painful way but if it is as potent as you say. It will work faster and better and if it means I can try and get prepared for a normal life then so be it" Henry said "Very well Prince Blueblood"Tender care came with a potion towards Henry Henry just made it levitate and open and gulped the disgusting potion down in one go "Blegh that is so disgusting" Was all Henry could say before he fell down on the ground from the shots of warmth and pain. Celestia and Luna came closer "Are you alright nephew " They said worried. "Stay back! I can handle it," Henry insisted. He stood, fighting through the odd combination of agonizing pain and comforting warmth before looking up. "Doctor? Am I free to move around?" Every pony within earshot looked at him with a mixture of shock and worry. "Yes your highness though I would advise against it. You should rest since not many ponies walk around while having drunk it" Tender care said worryingly "Thou should follow the physicians advice and rest" Luna said while she looked sternly at Henry. "I disagree. Doctor when we exercise our body muscle and strength growths afterwards because of the strain put on it correct?" Henry asked looking at Tender Care "Well Yes the same logic exists for magical training. Why do you ask?" Tender Care answered confused since Blueblood never asked about such details of a pony their body mostly he asked for stamina enhancing for his nightly escapades but demanding that they do not take him an ounce of work. "Well I didn't know about the magic part but I just wondered. Alright I'd like multiple of those potions in case they wear out and Could my aunties call my guards or aids. I have somethings to relearn and strength to regain." Henry said full of conviction One of the Royal guard just whispered to the other "I think he's been replaced by a demon of Tartarus who enjoys self harm." The other guard just laughed and whispered"Well it's better then his previous attitude. Shinning and the others will never belief this." "I forbid it.You aren't used to any psychical activities, you are not in the right mind and are a threat to yourself" Tender Care said Sternly. "Wait Tender I think this is a good idea for Blue. But if need we can just allow the guards to force him to stop for his own health" Celestia said smiling. "Hahaha the Doctor got told overuled by auntie" Henry said laughing "Thou shouldn't laugh too hard Nephew. Thou might have not regained thine memory but thou has made previous laws which thou will have to deal with" Luna said smiling mischievously before leaving the Medical wing to head to her chambers for some rest Wait Blueballs made laws and they are going to effect me. Oh dear God almighty I don't want to know what she meant with that Henry thought in fear > Chapter 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot Castle Damn Blueballs to Tartarus!! Henry thought angrily to himself as he finally realized what Luna meant with her remark about Blueblood implementing laws. Henry imagined whatever god that existed is probably laughing their head off at Henry his current situation. "So as I was saying your majesty. You cannot ask for another guard detail and considering what happened you will be under our watch 24/7 until the situation calms down." A female unicorn Royal guard with a white coat and a light brown mane said to Blueblood while her Thestral colleague could only just laugh at the annoyance that befall Henry. "But can't I have a male guard no offense but the hole opposite sex of the Royalty one should protect law is just so Stupid" Henry pleaded as he was rather uncomfortable being a naked unicorn causing him to hide his tail between his legs instinctively in discomfort. This caused a snicker from the Thestral guard seeing how the once arrogant and stuck up Blueblood was now getting embarrassed like a school Filly. "I agree that it is a stupid law your highness but you implemented it. And you shouldn't feel uncomfortable we have seen you less dignified while you still retained your memories" The Unicorn mare said while trying to contain her laughter at the response. "You know what I don't even wanna know" Henry said in defeat as his head filled with hypothetical situations he'd imagine Blueblood would be in to cause his current image."But I will need to know the names of my" Henry felt annoyed and continued speaking "Let's not beat around the bush it feels like you two are my foalsitters. So no need for titles. I know that with my memory being a mess your authority outranks me right now." Henry said plainly causing the Unicorn to smile but the Thestral mare was rather annoyed and stepped towards him rather aggressively. "You think I like to be a foalsitter. I was hoping for a better station then this when I joined the Equestrian army" the Thestral said as she approached Henry being rather intimidating up close in his face. "I did something to her or somepony she cares about didn't I? Henry asked nervously looking at the Female unicorn in fear of both the answer and the Thestral right up in his face. "You might have been unjust within the part of Equestria you had to manage where a lot of Thestrals live. I know you do not recall it but we have seen you use funds meant for official duties for less then respectful things. And other things I'd rather not discuss." The unicorn guard said looking at Henry with a mixture of disgust and sympathy. "Right. Well I don't remember that but I can imagine I have a hole lot of things to fix starting with my own physical condition and my image." Henry said nervous as the Thestral backed off. "The name is Midnight Scabbard" the Thestral said in a angry tone as she took her spot near her colleague. Only to glare daggers at Henry. "My name is Spellslinger" the Unicorn said kindly towards Henry"Princess Celestia said you wished to train your physique within water. We will escort you to the Royal pool. Though I do not believe the reports of the guards within the medical wing." Spellslinger said as she took the lead. As Henry followed her close by with this feeble attempt at walking on four hooves which appeared rather clumsily he could feel Midnight glaring at him. "Is that all that was said?" Henry asked nervously as he tripped over his hooves bumping into Spellslinger falling flat on is flank. "Bucking hell!" Henry said in annoyance as he fell. "They have told us about your more colorful vocabulary and that we will need to help you." Spellslinger said as she was trying to hold back laughing of seeing a grown stallion stumble like a newborn foal. "And Princess Luna gave us permission to make sure you behave so watch you better watch that language Blueblood!" Midnight said intimidatingly as she looked at Henry his Pathetic display of getting back on his hooves. Just as Spellslinger was about to help Henry back on his hooves he interrupted. "Don't you dare help me up." Henry protested which caused both mares to look in shock as he ungracefully got back on his four hooves. Causing them to give Henry some confused stares. "Your highness, you shouldn't be so stubborn and let us do our job to help you." Spellslinger said with a disappointing expression on her face. "You might have lost your memories but you still act like a self-absorbed brat of a stallion that doesn't want to stoop as low as to have mares help himself get up."Midnight said with venom in her voice. "It isn't because I think I'm above being helped by mares" Henry said as he tried not to wince from the stinging pain that echoed through his body now the previous pleasing warmth that came from the healing potion became unbearably uncomfortable as it changed from calm soothing heat to a uncomfortable desert heat sensation. "I'm sorry. The potion its side effects are becoming less pleasant. And before either of you tell me it is your duty to help me even against your personal motivations. It was my own choice to take the quicker and less pleasant potion and want to head towards the pool so neither of you should deal with the consequences that come with it. If I fall I'll crawl up if I have to before I cause you two anymore discomfort." Henry said in his best attempt at sounding like a noble while be got back up. This causes both of the Mares to look at him with confusion. But then Midnight just shook her head in disbelief. "Yeah right" Midnight said sarcastically "I don't know how long you'll try and pull the I wanna do it myself card till you fall back into your vices. Honestly I don't get how the Princesses fell for it." Midnight said rolling her eyes showing she didn't believe a word of what Henry just said. "Well actions speak louder then words. But I don't even know the vices you speak of though I hope you'll help me prevent falling for them if I do not see them myself." Henry said as he continued following Spellslinger towards the pool. He couldn't complain about the view In front or behind him though. Wait what I'm finding them attractive! Damn pony body and pony brain don't go there not ever you hear me. Henry thought in shock at his current realization. "Oh so you wanna go that route. Fine just remember you gave that order your highness." Midnight said with a smirk and tone that would be menacing if it didn't come from a cute pony. "Good hold me to it though I'll be more precise on that order later after I wrap my head around my political position and the current political affairs within the kingdom." Henry said calmly as they arrived at the Royal pool. "We have arrived your highness now tell us why you planned to come here while you should be resting in the medical wing?" Spellslinger asked Henry with a concern expression. "Yeah tell us Blueblood why would you come here instead of resting on your lazy flank in the medical wing?" Midnight asked as she glanced at Henry with suspicion. "It's very simple the healing potion has no pain numbing effects and while it works it gives a rather soothing warm sensation from what I noticed it becomes overly warm to being uncomfortable being able to be compared to a desert while I overexert myself. So my plan was simple use the potion it's rapid healing properties within the pool till I've gained enough strength to stand on my hooves. And amp up the training. Probably ask a unicorn for a spell that makes movement harder or makes me heavier so I can train further at least for a few hours every day or more if need be until I judge myself strong and educated enough about my situation that I will no longer need to self isolate considering I almost died." Henry explained bluntly as he went into the pool without a care and started to walk within the shallow areas of the pool the water only reaching his neck just running from one end of the pool to the other while both guards stood in shock at his explanation. They had heard Blueblood being ambitious about things in the past but that was mostly about social events, his clothes and art being made of himself but since he grew up they'd never seen him show ambition about anything important except of tales how he was different in his youth but the mares knew that his change during his younger years was beyond his own control. Midnight was the first one to speak after the wave of shock and confusion faded from her expression and it was replaced with anger "Blueblood! If you think I'm going to let you evade your duties as a noble because with this trick then you'd better think again before I call Princess Luna" Midnight said angrily flying above Henry as he continued running side to side of the pool only making her angrier that he didn't have the manners to stand still. Is he ignoring me just great even without his memories he still is the same self centered noble. Who is he trying to fool! Midnight thought to herself in anger. "I.." Henry yelped in pain as the stress He was putting on his body combined with the now heavily unpleasant heat that only was slightly bearable thanks to the pool it's soothing water. "Never said I wouldn't do duties as a noble. I do expect help with them but beyond that I'll have to be focused on learning and training. And there is no better excuse for it then a exclusion because of not being sound of mind." He said as he stopped at the side to catch his breath. This blasted pony body has no condition. Damn Blueblood and his luxury lifestyle if the idiot took up a sport like fencing or sword fighting which has some flair I wouldn't have to deal with such a weak condition to work with. Then again ponies aren't very well focused on combat even sports relating to it. Henry thought as he felt all the muscles in his pony body scream in agony the pain visible on his face. "Your highness wouldn't that be seen as hiding from the problem. You said you wanted to fix your image hiding while training in the castle won't do it much good" Spellslinger said as she looked at Blueblood worryingly while casting a spell to numb the pain slightly. "Yes and no. If my image is so bad I probably hung with the less respectable nobles or probably would have been used as somepony their pawn behind the scenes or in somepony their way. I don't just want to change my image I want to prevent others falling in that rabbit hole. You ponies should have joy and cooperation and live in harmony but I can't just ignore the possible threat some noble ponies pose to it. If i were a pawn to somepony that pony needs to be brought out in the light of day and their power undermined to protect others." Henry said as the pain was bearable again as he continued training with a determined expression on his face. Midnight and Spellslinger were confused at what Blueblood just said. "What do you mean with that are you trying to shove your blame on somepony else?" Midnight asked with a angry tone. "Do you really somepony else possibly manipulating you means you can cast all the blame of?" Midnight said furiously towards Henry "Not all of it but as spoiled and bad my previous self probably was it had to be affected by those around me. Combine that with the attempt on my life and the method used it only makes sense something corrupt is going on. Since if it was something that could be handled publicly I'd be brought In front of my aunties or a court." Henry said as he continued training but the words he said made both guards mares look at him in shock this only made Henry laugh a little. "Aah naivety. Seeing you two come to the realization is both joyful and saddening. But I think my aunties think the same otherwise they wouldn't have put one who reports to either one of them directly as my guards. I mean in all fairness it made me confused why a seemingly nocturnal creature would be assigned as my guard considering I probably don't have a nocturnal lifestyle." Henry said bluffing as he stopped at the end of the pool Midnight and Spellslinger stood at. Both guards mare took a step back from Blueblood as if they were caught red handed in a cookie jar. "It's quite funny your responses say I'm right on that bluff and that you did it behind my back when I had my memories I must have been really dumb but it is all good in all intents and purposes it's better that way it means you both are close near my aunties and that they either they care a lot or they were trying to bring me down or whatever corrupt group I must have interacted with that warrants the assassination attempt." Henry said with the smile of a mad pony and laughs. The two guards seemed scared of the smile and laughter but Midnight she recognized it as a Thestral she knew the smile of a predator many of her kind smile the same way when they hunt animals to drink blood off or whenever a Pegasus dove to get a fish. Spellslinger took another step back and fell scared off Henry not only had he just figured out that she reports to Princess Celestia in fear and shock."Blueblood... Why... Are you smiling like that.. I'll tell princess Celestia you've started acting like a Tartarean demon if you don't stop this instant" Spellslinger said in a shaking voice using her best attempt to appear brave but her tail was firmly between her legs and she was shaking. "Oh I'm sorry Spellslinger. I got to carried away but you don't need to be scared. I'm still weak compared to you two mares well physically weaker. But I have no qualms with you nor my aunties quite the opposite but considering your response the auntie that send you is the big white fluffy one. I can't remember their names I've been using auntie to address both of them but beyond that she radiated motherly kindness and compassion our bond must have been strong once or she hopes for something and cares a lot and I do not want her to be worried so you can tell my White fluffy auntie who's warm radiance and beauty shines like the sun. That I'm no monster I'm just well angry at my situation and all the questions surrounding it." Henry said calmly and softly trying to bring Spellslinger to ease. Spellslinger was still worried but Henry saying he was still physically weaker made her worries die down a little. "Then what are you going to do Blueblood. That look in your eyes was like a timber wolf ready to pounce on its prey. You can't expect us not to worry when insanity and damage to your mind is one of the side effects of the poison. And you are acting insane with that smile and laugh earlier." Midnight asked looking at Henry wanting to see if it was more then the insane cackling of a pony who lost his marbles though she was very nervous and shocked by his actions and ways of thinking up until now. "Oh I assure you I'm quite sane why else would I tell you this as for my plan." Henry smiled and put his hoof up to his chin in a thinking pose " Well that depends on you two and my aunties. Considering you both have different motives to investigate me under the pretense of guarding me. I'm sure my plan won't be the most interesting thing you both will report. But my plan is really simple regain my strength figure adjusting my public appearances act as a noble should. If I can get a decent understanding of magic I might be able to look for solutions or advancements that nopony would think of considering my mind isn't blinded by already preexisting pretenses. I might need to limit my personal spending since a noble has a budget they have. Recreate stability and probably sacrifice personal luxury to attain it. These actions combined with a restoration of the things I manage as a noble which will have numerous effects if done right. The first will be my previous group I mingle with will think the princesses either directly manage my finances and planning causing them to either attempt to kill me again or would try and revert me and attempt to use new structure and power that will form as their own. Second the nobles who are loyal to the Princesses would see me in a better light and if they were responsible which is unlikely but possible would show interest directly and would want to simulate or emulate the success and the final side effect will be both a bettering of my image and economic growth within what I have to manage as a noble thus both the populace and me will profit. Of course now the only auntie I can go with this too First is Luna considering her attachment to the Thestrals and her light hearted comment upon jokingly foreshadowing laws I've made in the past she doesn't fit the criteria of being part of those who attempted to kill me and being allied to them. " Henry said calmly. Both Spellslinger and Midnight looked at each other then at Henry their mouths wide agape as they realized his reasoning. "We will go to Princess Luna then but why did you smile like a Timber wolf ready to pounce on its prey?" Midnight asked Henry stepping closer to her wanting to understand what the stallion is thinking "It's quite simple really. I do not want to kill those responsible. I want to watch them see that who they tried so hard to remove rise beyond what he was before. And when we find out who is responsible for the poisoning well let's just say either they will lose any power they hold causing me to have enough of a hold onto the masses to setup an informant network so we can bring them to justice or they will show themselves by trying to kill me or trying to manipulate me as before but I am preparing preparing myself. Physical exercise if I'd need to overpower them physically or plainly using politics and business practices to bring them down while having the masses behind me. In both situations I'd try and bring them so low they'd wish they'd drank the poison used on me. But I'll need to continue training now but the self isolation and you two are a real gift. But there is no need to disrupt Auntie Luna now while she rests. As for my other auntie she's probably very busy so telling them my plan will have to wait when it doesn't inconvenience them." Henry said with a big smile before he continued training After a few more hours of training Henry his stomach growled and hunger set in. "Sorry for that sound ladies. I haven't eaten since I woke up in the medical wing. So why don't we head towards the kitchen." Henry said as he crawled out of the pool his muscles aching from the exercise and his mane and coat a wet mess. "Are you sure about that your highness you could ask somepony to bring you something while you ask for a servant to make yourself presentable." Spellslinger said confused looking at Henry. "Did I hear you correct?" Henry looked confused at Spellslinger. "About what sir?" Spellslinger asked Henry not understanding the question. "About the whole letting everypony do everything for me part cause that just sounds stupid. Sure I don't remember how to tend to my mane and coat but you made it sound like it's something I commonly let other ponies handle." Henry said looking at Spellslinger awaiting her answer while Midnight couldn't help herself and fell on the floor laughing. "This is just hilarious. Prince Blueblood being against getting served and everything done for him wanting to do things himself" Midnight continued laughing. "By Luna her moon. Wait till i tell the other guards and thestrals." Midnight said laughing before regaining her composure. Henry read the room and just sighed "You know what buck this. How much of a spoiled corrupt brat was I? Cause this is going to far by my accounts." Henry said before facehoofing and sighing as he just trotted around the royal pool area looking in cupboards for a towels not wanting to hear anymore of his predecessor before he rams his head into a wall. When he found a towel he dried himself off using telekinesis and put his mane back in style. "Now we are going to the kitchen a simple omelet and beans breakfast lots of protein would be good for my current routine." His gaze then felt on Midnight and Spellslinger. "Let's go before i want to drown myself in the pool with another past revelation." He commented as he head towards the door. Bucking Blueblood how deep does this rabbit hole go. Honestly i wouldn't be amazed if the idiot has a harem. Wait no don't jinx it Henry. You don't want to deal with mares that wanted to be around him. Just go and eat. Henry thought as he steps out of the royal pool area. "Shall we go your highness." Midnight said mockingly as she opened the door trying not to fall into a laughing fit. "Very funny Midnight and you can drop the your highness stuff even as a joke now let's just go to the kitchens." Henry said looking at Midnight first slightly annoyed but he then smiled at her since if he were in her hooves he'd also joke at the situation. "Your highness" Spellslinger said before getting a glance of annoyance from Henry. "I mean Blueblood are you sure you wish to go into areas with more ponies considering your situation." Spellslinger said worryingly as she looked Henry right in the eyes. "It would be best to bite the proverbial bullet. But it's nice to know you care Spellslinger." Henry said with a kind smile as he patted the confused unicorn. "Bite the what sir?" Spellslinger said in confusion after enjoying her head patting that made her blush and slightly embarrassed. "Oh right peaceful no weapons like guns. You do have fireworks well good to know if I have free time and interest in chemistry or if alchemy. Sorry my mind took a large trip because of the poison. I'm actually wondering if I'm possessing a pony or if I'm really insane either on the end that I saw as my home or well here." Henry said plainly. "Let's just go Blueblood. You are sounding like a mad pony again so keep such comments down." Midnight said as he started leading them towards the kitchens. What is with this stallion at times he seems a genius and think strange but with other things he sounds like a entire mad pony. This is going to be a fun report. midnight thought both confused and pondering if what Blueblood said in his strange antic's made sense. "Ok I'll try honestly if its just a delusion I'd rather not be known as the pony who made weapons of war out of a poison induced state of lunacy." Henry commented. Now that I think about it do the same natural laws apply I mean firework is a thing. So chemical reactions are the same I wonder how the fields of science apply to magic. I should look into that. Henry thought "Blueblood please stop about such things. Many of the servants their foals play around the castle and I don't want you to scare them. Not to mention thinking we are a delusion how can you think such things." Spellslinger said looking stern at Henry. "Right yeah sorry. Well I'll explain that and my mental conundrum later after I've figured it out myself." Henry said worry plasterer on his face I mean I could be insane. Or not I don't think I am but then again from both perspectives either a human possessing a magical unicorn body is insane. The same goes for the hole fabrication of a entire lifetime with history and story within one's head as a side effect of potion. I am going to need a shrink or maybe better Luna and her dream walking to help figure this conundrum out. Henry was to deep in thought to notice midnight stood still and bumped into her loosing his Balance and falling through the kitchen door tripping on a pony wearing a toque blanch. DAMN HOOVES. I AM USED TO TWO FEET NOT A QUADRUPEDAL MOVEMENT!! Henry shouted mentally in disdain at his current situation. Henry quickly got up "Are you alright sir? I'm so sorry I was preoccupied in thought." Henry said to the earth pony stallion with a white coat and black mane and a black swirly mustache. "Oh non non Prince Blueblood. I am fine" the Chef said as he got back on his four hooves but Henry quickly noticed a during his fall he scratched the cook with his horn. Henry quickly lifted the stallion his hurt hoof with his magic "No you aren't I seemed to have scratched you and drawn some blood this isn't good" Welp he can't cook with a wound even if it's something small wound it's not hygienic. He will have to get it disinfected and then stop the bleeding even if it's a minuscule scratch. I wonder if the healing is accelerated by magic or follows the same rules on earth ponies are normally sturdier. Then again healing probably follows the same logic. Henry said as he thought back to his biology lessons on how the body heals of injuries while still holding the stallion his hoof with his magic noticing the wound glowing with the white hue of his magic then Henry became more peckish and slightly exhausted as he noticed the wound of the stallion was healed. In shock he let go of the Stallions hoof and looked utterly confused. He wasn't the only one in shock both Midnight and Spellslinger looked at Henry with confusion. "Prince Blueblood you didn't have to go that far for a simple servant sir though it is odd for you do such a thing did you perhaps require my services for something?" The cook asked looking at the still utterly confused Henry. "I .. uhm a highly protein breakfast and maybe an explanation to what I just did?" Henry blunted out in a rather confused and charmless fashion. "Oh of course but sir I'd advice you adjust your behavior I understand that your image is important to you and your friends but do not worry I wont tell anypony and prepare your meal." the cook said kindly as he trotted to make a highly protein filled meal. Midnight looked at Blueblood with suspicion "What did you just do? I remember you saying you only remember the basic telekinesis spell and you never learned a healing spell according to the records." Midnight said looking at Blueblood in surprise. "I didn't mean to. I don't know how I did it. I was just letting my mind wonder honestly. I have no clue to what just happened." Henry mumbled confused sounding like a idiot. "What were you wondering about?"Spellslinger asked curiously. "Unicorn Magic without verbal spells in guided by understanding and focus to channel internal magic through the horn around a object and cause change." Spellslinger explained while looking at Henry mostly impressed but confused awaiting an answer. "Uhm can you explain that to somepony with amnesia and a entire lack for the understanding of magic because amnesia" Henry stated looking at Spellslinger.The only bloody thing I understand is telekinesis and that's out of the memory of Blueballs how he held a glass of wine. Why the hell did I do to make her act like that did I break a taboo. She isn't going to go all Twillight i hope. Henry thought worryingly trying to understand the situation. "What were you thinking off when you focused your magic around Mister Bon Appetite his hoof. It's very important you shouldn't have the magic reserves to do such a simple healing spell since even the best healing spells take a lot out of a pony." Spellslinger said in confusion at the subject. "Honestly I just thought about the phases of healing how a body heals without the implementation of magic while I had his hoof in my telekinetic grasp and then poof I felt a little weaker and more hungry but beyond that nothing. Did I break a rule or something is somepony pranking me or going to arrest me for healing without a license?" Henry asked worryingly and started looking around. "This isn't funny Blueblood tell me how you did it. This could help a lot of ponies If your method could be adapted to common healing practices." Spellslinger said as she sternly looked at Henry. "Explain what the science of Biology and how living organisms work?"He asked sarcastically. " I want to eat and then find out why in the name of Tartarus you're acting strange all out of a sudden." Henry said utterly confused.Sweet Celestia please somepony reign her in if she continues acting strange and it is something wrong i did i might get Luna or Celestia on my ass or worse. Henry thought in horror as he imagined multiple scary scenarios the most scary being researched by somepony to redo what he did on accident and becoming a lab exhibit if they noticed anything off. Midnight stepped to Spellslinger "Let the Stallion eat and then you can two can have your Unicorn magic discussion but maybe near Tender Care since he has as much as a clue as I do why your acting like this healing spells at common so no big deal." Midnight said calmly to Spellslinger. I don't get the big deal about unicorns casting healing magic. Sure it's weird Blueblood did it without training but don't unicorns learn some spells on things they understand like telekinesis for grabbing things. Midnight thought considering her limited work with Unicorns beside Shinning Armor who is Captain of both guard's. "Not a big Deal! He has got the magical reserve and expertise of a foal right now and you are saying it isn't a big deal!"Spellslinger shouted only making Henry more nervous. Henry just booked it out of there running as he noticed Midnight and Spellslinger started arguing as he without any idea where he was he ended up in the main hall were Celestia just had finished dealing with some business in day court. Princess Celestia looked at the distraught on Henry his face and the exhaustion she could read of it. "Everything Alright Blueblood?" Celestia asked in a worried but kind motherly tone. "I uhm"Henry was unsure what to say to Princess Celestia. Be honest to auntie Tia. Don't worry she won't hurt you. the sound of a little colt his voice rang within Henry his head. He was to tired and hungry to argue with it. "I am not alright auntie Tia. I accidentally healed a cook after hurting him scraping or well scratching him with my horn when i took a tumble and Spellslinger is acting like a mad pony and that's by my standards." Henry said worrying about his safety causing his body language to follow suit tail between his legs and ears at the side. Celestia smiled when she heard that nickname and stepped to Henry and have him a kind nuzzle to calm him while she wrapped her wing defensively over him. "Do not worry Bluey. I'll talk to them but you shouldn't run from your escort." Celestia said kindly while looking at Henry. "I know but i just went there to eat since i didn't this morning in the medical wing. Not to mention learning things about me i don't like combined with them acting strange It was a little to much." Henry said as he calmed down he felt safe under Celestia her wing and near her for some reason and that nickname Bluey it felt nice to him. "That explains it though its normal for Spellslinger to act as she did you don't need to worry Blueblood. Also next time don't lie about not remembering our names. You might have tricked your auntie Luna but i used to hold the element of Honesty and it rubs off on somepony." Celestia said kindly as she played with Henry his mane "It's complicated Auntie Tia but I will tell you and auntie Luna tonight if we can talk separately with my guards."Henry said looking up at Celestia with a nervous smile before she pulled him in a warm wing hug and her warm presences calmed him down again and he leans into her smiling. She knew but she didn't push to ask why i lied. Honestly for what the fan base used to say like Trollestia she is a really kind and warm pony. I should tell her even she cares so much about him. Henry thought even if it might hurt Celestia. "I understand. Now why don't we go to the dinning hall. I could use a chocolate Cake and a cup of tea before i have to return to my duties. but why don't we teleport." Celestia said kindly as she had an all knowing smile as she teleported Herself and Henry towards the Dinning hall. "Auntie is that alright. I mean I didn't tell the cook where i would be." Henry asked looking up at Celestia as he noticed they teleported. "Is Bon Appetite all you worry about Bluey?" Celestia asked with a smile. "If you are asking i am worrying about how my two guards handle their lost escortee. Then nope. I think it's fair because both Auntie Luna and you used them to keep tabs on me. So it will be funny to see what happens."Henry said smiling but Princess Celestia looked slightly worried at Henry when she found out Luna also send a guard to spy on him. "It will be funny and sorry for that Bluey you probably already learned you were a hoofful." Celestia said kindly after asking a maid in the dinning hall to be quiet about where they were except to Bon Appetite and to bring a cake for her. "I know. It makes me wanna bang my head into a wall when i think about it." Henry said sighing. "Now now Blueblood don't get all gloomy." Celestia said as her horn glowed and an orb showing the Midnight and Spellslinger trot around the castle could be seen. This caused both Celestia and Henry to laugh especially when multiple guards started looking around and even Shinning armor had to join the chase. The food quickly arrived at the dinning hall so Celestia and Henry ate while laughing at the Royal Guard within the castle all looking around some bumping into each other within the halls. Henry almost choked while eating because of his laughter it fell like a Looney Toons Cartoon. Midnight and Spellslinger both were going through the Royal Garden to see if Henry went there to get away from the stress ending up getting pushed in a bush by other guards looking around frantically. Both Celestia and Henry enjoyed their little moment but just as they were done eating Shinning Armor in the kitchen noticed the food that was meant for Henry was gone. Shining Armor went towards the dinning hall and noticed Both Princess Celestia and Henry there trying to hold back snickering. "It seems we are caught Auntie Tia." Henry said jokingly. "That"s alright Bluey, though I hope you will come by more often when you can and not only focus on your work." Princess Celestia said with a kind smile. "Your highness was that really needed? It's not that I see the fun in the prank but considering what's going on was that really the best thing to do."Shining Armor with an expression of disbelief. "Hmm well Captain i could explain you why it was good but maybe my nephew could give his 10 bits" Celestia said smiling at Henry dropping the explaining on him. Oh no you didn't you're trying to drop this on me. Ooh when I can I will order an exploding cake to get you back Celestia.Henry thought. Henry coughs a little and goes into a serious tone "Though this test was an improvisation and started as a fun little joke. It points out key flaws in the command structure and security of the castle. Issue of no central information gather basic rules of movement withing the hallway when in a rush causing guards to hilariously bump into each other and fall . No correct using of unicorns with tracing spells. No form of rapid communication which will be useful during a real issue and no questioning of other staff. Which made it funny but the only three ponies who seemed most reliable which is Midnight, Spellslinger and you Captain Armor were to caught up in the chaos and only realized where to go far later. I'm not sure if peace is common but should issues arise that would require real intervention they'd be ill prepared. No offense it was amusing to watch and no offense to your training regime for the guards but in peace time one must prepare for war to be able to preserve the peace. Do not grow complaisant with peace time strategies instead think to prevent. Like making the castle teleport proof with a spell if something fishy is going on." Henry said in his best attempt to sound like a serious noble advising someone. Shining Armor first looked confused at Henry then a smile formed "You make some good points your highness maybe instead of training within the royal baths you could join our drills. Don't worry you can put on the enchanted armor of the guards to be unrecognizable." Shinning Armor said with a cheeky smile as if challenging Henry. "Hmm I would love to but the time isn't ripe for it Shinning and please drop the titles right now I am just an amnestic pony who has a reputation to uphold and a mess to clean." Henry said smiling Shinning smiled "Very Well later Your Highness and Blueblood. I got a few things to think of and somepony owes me a bag of bits" Shinning said as he knelt before he left Henry turned to Celestia with a smile "So auntie why did you put me on the spot like that?" Henry said looking at Celestia with a cheeky grin. "Well can't an aunt tease her nephew. Besides you handled it well. I was wondering if you'd run from your responsibilities as you mostly do." Celestia said with a smile before trotting to Henry and pulling him in a wing hug "You've even given me something to think about nephew but you should rest. I know my sun is still out but you still need to rest." Celestia said as her horn flashed teleporting them to what Henry recognized as the Medical wing "You still can't go to your own chambers till we found the pony responsible so until then get comfy the guards will be here shortly so just rest Bluey." Celestia said as she tucked Henry in bed. "But I'm not Ti.." Henry yawns before falling asleep with a full stomach Celestia remained there for a while "Tender Care check psychology reports and books. Oh and make sure my nephew stays in bed for a while now. I need to discuss things with his guards and ask my sister to look into his dreams and see the damage of his mind." Tender Care nodded at Celestia "I will your highness should i keep him restrained to the medical wing for a while?" Tender Care asked. "No just ensure he takes at least 4 hours of rest" Celestia said smiling before she left as she noticed Royal guards head to the Medical wing. > Chapter 3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Within Henry his dreams Henry was dreaming of Canterlot castle and noticed a little unicorn colt with a blond mane and white coat running around in the castle the little colt quickly disappeared out of existence within the dream. Hmm weird dreams then again it isn't it the weirdest that has happened to me. Henry thought while he wondered why he was dreaming of the castle and a little foal. "Hmm the subconscious is a wonderful thing I suppose." Henry said as he trotted through the dream version of the castle with even more confusing and ludicrous architecture. "This feels like a damn maze. I wonder if a minotaur would like it here" Henry said jokingly as he trotted around and then noticed a mirror. The mirror didn't follow his movements but the reflection within the mirror seems to be whining and angry but strangest of all transparent. What Henry didn't know was that somepony was looking within his dreams observing him. Luna was observing Henry within his dreams she had problems reading what she presumed their mind. What is going on with you Blueblood? You act strange your mind and soul are in pieces and unrecognizable. What is on your mind? Luna thought as she was observing the only thing that wasn't a conflicting and garbled mess within her nephews mind. Henry smiled like a mad pony as he looked at the reflection "Now look here still transparent aren't you. How interesting but something doesn't add up. You act so spiteful and angered but why would you talk to me then giving me advice. Sure it could be some large ploy I know you were a big pain in many ponies their flanks but it just doesn't add up. Your ego is to big for such an approach honestly i find it sad there is no reprisentation of you in here that I could smack and kick you around." Henry said in a intimidating tone as he looked at the transparent reflection within the mirror. This only made the reflection stomp it's hoof in anger. Wow he seems really angry but this doesn't make sense if he is just angry but seems contained then why did I hear a little colt's voice when I was awake. I swear I'm going to need a specialist to look into this maybe I can ask some tutors of Auntie Celestia her school of gifted Unicorns. Ugh great now I'm calling her Auntie in my thoughts too. Something is rubbing of on me and I don't like it. I mean the reflection doesn't seem to be able to communicate and he acts like the spoiled corrupt high and mighty Blueblood would in the situation probably attempting to take control and whine. But even he wouldn't stoop so low to sound like a little colt and advise me. His ego is to inflated to seep that low. I am going to need more information to analyze. Before I draw a conclusion. Thought like a true analyst but I don't know the big picture heck I don't even understand what Blueballs did to me. Still adorable that he thinks stomping his hoof in anger is threatening. Henry pondered what this dream meant or what it symbolizes. Luna observing the dream looked confused at her nephew talking this weird reflection but then thought how her nephews mind was unruly and in pieces. What are you hiding nephew? Luna thought observing Henry his behavior. Henry sighs and calmly walks in the dream "Luna her understanding of dreams would be useful now. It's not like she'd probably be here considering it's day out. And I'd rather spare her of it all. Man Blueblood was such an plothole." Henry said irritated as he walks to what seems a decrepit dark version of the castle within his dreams with chained up or rusted doors. First I'm unwillingly changing to pony swears and now this place is less minotaur wet dream and more Halloween haunted house or bad maintained castle you'd expect in a Scooby Doo episode. I swear this is getting annoying. Well at least not as annoying as a certain guard who is asking me things I cant explain because I lack understanding of the situation. Henry thought as he walked deeper into the decrepit dark version of the castle. Luna was worried at the change of scenery within the dream she tried to use her magic to change it into something pleasant but as she used her magic that would alter a troubled pony their nightmares she noticed it didn't work. Why isn't it working this spell is meant to manipulate nightmares so I can help the pony with what ails and scares them. Why isn't our nephew scared? Luna thought worryingly since most modern ponies were easily terrified and Blueblood was known to be a coward at times it just didn't make sense for her. Henry continued walking the floor boards creaking and shadows dancing. Even this looks cartoon like and technicolor. Well this is just lame I've seen scarier cupcakes fan art then this. Hmm wait aren't timberwolves and manticores cute and cartoony too. Only psychological horror and certain attributes of magic will probably scare me then. Like that prick Sombra his mind control spells. I wonder how far I am in the timeline. Considering Shinning Armor is still captain of the guard I guess very early. I personally hope this is pre galloping Gala but knowing my luck probably not. Henry thought as he wondered deeper and suddenly noticed a transparent little Unicorn colt through a dark dusty rusted door which showed decay on its wooden frame. "The buck did I just see?" Henry blurted out in confusion and surprise. Luna previous interest was now replaced with worry not just because of the fearlessness from Henry but from something she felt familiar with the door within the dream and what it might represent. Our nephew can't be foalish enough to follow that apparition within his dream and open that door. Maybe we will have to shy him away from it. Luna thought as she attempted to find a way to take form within the dream but it was hard in the shattered and divided mind as if some internal conflict only made it harder for her. Luna could only look in worry as Henry opened the door and walked through it. When he did open it Luna realized what this dream represented and what was behind the door only trying harder to intervene. As Henry opened the door it creaked and felt rusty but as he opened it inside it seemed to be night and there was a stallion sitting there behind the desk doing paperwork wearing beautiful attire comparable to a medieval nobleman and the little unicorn colt no longer seemed transparent. As Luna observed what was going on her worry faded a little but it was replaced with sadness Blueblood is going to ask a lot of questions and what am I supposed to tell my sister him asking to many questions will hurt her just when she seemed so happy when they pranked the guards. Luna thought worrying about what she was seeing meant and what questions would arise from it. The unicorn stallion smiled at the little colt but ignored Henry being there but somehow it pulled at Henry his heart strings seeing the stallion caused tears to fill his eyes. Why the hell am I feeling this. Bucking hell is going on. Who is that stallion? It isn't Blueblood that's for sure. And who is that little colt" Henry thought completely bewildered. The stallion picked up the little colt and spoke in a fatherly tone "Bluey, you know not to sneak away from your mother." The little colt smiled at the Stallion "But daddy I want to see what you are doing." The little colt said innocently but the voice was familiar Henry heard it before and this place and seeing the stallion pulled at his heart so much it made him cry. Wait that voice the little colt voice advising me. But that makes no sense Bluey is what Celestia called me. A suppressed memory perhaps? Poison causing mental regression? Ugh I can't just guess I need to understand whats going on. Henry thought confused as he tried to interact with things in the room but his hooves went through everything he tried to interact with like as if he was a ghost. "Now now Bluey your mother and auntie will be worried if you keep sneaking off like that." The stallion said as he patted the little colt his head this caused the little colt to pout at the Stallion "But I want to know what you are doing." the little colt said throwing a little cute hissy fit. Luna was looking at the little colt and stallion and smiled which had a heavy hint of sadness as she looked at the little colt and the stallion. He was kind and innocent back then according to my sister before the incident. Luna thought while tearing up a little. "Alright alright, I'll tell you my little angel. I'm working on the plans for integrating Thestrals in our land. Getting our fellow ponies to be calm around them and planning lodgings and jobs for them." The stallion said with a smile only for the little colt to lookup to him and smile "For the bat ponies?" The little colt asked with a gleeful expression "They are nice auntie Tia said they used to follow somepony important to our family." the little colt said proudly of remembering a little bit of his lessons with his aunt. "Yes, most ponies fear them because they are different but I am happy you don't my little one. And yes they used to follow someone very important." The stallion said with a hint of pride and then opened a window to show a full moon "Do you know about your other auntie the one for who we try to give the nice bat ponies a home?" The stallion asked the little colt. "Other auntie? Do you mean the mare in the moon?" The colt seemed confused but the stallion just ruffled his mane "Maybe it's too soon for you to know the full meaning behind the old mares tale they tell but it's for the other auntie we try our best maybe one day you will learn about since I should wait to tell you the full meaning when you get older. Just remember Bluey be kind to everypony and be just a lot of ponies will want to hurt the bat ponies who live in our domain and you wouldn't want to make your friends at home sad. It's always been our families dream and duty to spread the harmony Equestria was build upon with everypony no matter how scary they might seem. Everypony deserves a chance. And we nobles are nothing without the ponies behind us so try and do the best for those under you when you grow up." The stallion said before he and the little colt seemed to disappear. Luna had tears in her eyes knowing what just transpired in front of her eyes as she attempts to end the dream again as she noticed Henry with tears in his eyes. Please let the spell work this time. Luna thought worryingly Henry had tears in his eyes and felt a lot of sadness and for some reason but it clicked in his head this wasn't a dream but he was seeing a memory of Blueblood. "Why am I crying?" Henry said in a strained and emotional voice. This isn't even my memory why does it affect me so much. I want this dream to end. I don't want to feel his familial attachments if it hurt so much. Why do I care? No if he was innocent and sweet like that there has to be a reason he became the dickhead he did I need to find out what it is?Henry thought as his hoof clutched to his chest not noticing that the moon in his dream glowed white and Luna appeared turning changing the dream into a nice grassy field with beautiful flowers and a strong beautiful oak tree. Luna calmly stepped to Henry worrying for his current condition " Are thee Alright nephew?" Luna asked in a kind voice as if talking to a foal. Henry snapped his focus on her and shakily said "No. I feel pain and sad emotions over something I never lived through." Henry answered honestly How long has she been watching couldn't she just end this before I went on the emotional Train. Is she doing this to test me or get back at Blueblood? Henry thought and worried as he looked up showing his current pathetic state. He quickly dried of his tears and pushed his emotions down. Luna looked concerned at Henry "Thou shouldn't crop up thine emotions nephew. Thou has just gone through a lot whilst thou should have been at peace. Thou shouldn't have seen things even thou locked away within thine mind." Luna said she sat down near him. Henry just sighed and then looked sternly at Luna "Then why didn't you stop it auntie." Henry said with a hint of venom in his shaking voice "You are the princess of the night and guardian of dreams. And with locked in the mind you mean suppressed memories. Why the hell do I even have those to begin with. They come from either trauma either physical or mental. And whatever happened afterwards seemed to have turned the innocent cute little colt into the textbook definition of a bad noble. Is letting me relive them some sick punishment or something cause all it did is make me very angry. Cause spies I can understand but this is just sick." Henry said not in a venomous tone but a angry one.Henry his angered gaze was fixated on Luna. I swear the nerve of this mare. Spying not intervening and with whatever happened that turned that innocent colt into a massive dick or at the very least preventing him to cause more harm. I am going to get to the bottom of this if I have to use underhanded and emotional blackmail tactics to do it. I need answers to my condition and why I"m seeing and feeling this shit and how it got this far. Henry thought as he was unable to think clearly out of the anger for ponies not intervening before it got out of hoof and especially at Celestia or what other noble plothole there was under the sun could be blamed got his current situation. Luna stood up and looked straight at Henry right into his spiteful anger filed eyes "Thou art not in a position to judge me nephew. Thou should also wary of such strong emotions thou seemed to have regain memories of us so thou should not let thine self be blinded with anger." Luna said in her royal Canterlot voice she then noticed Henry his anger cool a little mostly cause he was to focused on holding his sensitive equine ears. "Thou art right that as thine aunt and thine princess of the night I have failed but thine mind and dreams art in turmoil. " Our nephew really has lost most of his mind if he thinks that I would pervert my duty to torment ponies with such things then I fear what twisted turmoil that poison put him through mentally. Luna thought saddened that somepony could think she could try something so monstrous and barbaric. Henry breathes in deeply then breathes out and then lays down in the grass bed in the dream "Ok. I'm sorry auntie. Let's just say I feel like a few ponies who should have acted deserve a punishment and those who made the personality I had before should wish they'd be brought to Tartarus as a form of relief." Henry said still angry but he then looked at Luna her shocked expression. Oh shit! I bucked up. Well here comes the mad pony jacket when I wake up. Henry thought worrying but all he got was a comforting hug. Luna then looked straight in Henry his eyes "Thou shall not make the same mistakes as thour Aunt does thou hear me Vladimir Blueblood. Thou should focus on thine recovery and undoing thour previous mistakes not letting thouself be blinded by anger and vendetta." Luna said sternly as she looked at him. Henry seemed shocked at the current reaction of Luna and smiled at her "Auntie Luna those are my plans while at the same time. I will go into detail with Auntie Tia there as well as the two spying guards. But if it's not to much to ask could you help me by maybe finding a way to bring books in my dreams so I can study while my body rests." Luna smiled at Henry "That depends on thine plan Nephew it thine plan is acceptable We will aid thee on thine academic endeavour. But thour current behavior and outburst of before makes us worry of thour intentions but thine heart seems to be in the right place if thour healing of the chef is anything to show of but thou art weak in magic we wonder how thee did it." Luna asked as she looked at Henry. Henry just facehooved "Honestly I just thought of the natural healing process when I held the cook his hoof in my telekinetic grasp. Basic things it's healing stages those being hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and remodeling. Well how they normally work in comparison without magic in a lot of detail really. Though it was completely accidental." Henry said annoyed I can't believe I ever would think about this beyond biology class and its not like it's relevant. I just wondered if it the same rules apply. Henry thought and then started to ponder Maybe I need to research the nature of magic to explain what happened here is to hoping I can fill my dreams with studying books so I can get a better understanding about magic and Equestria. Luna just looked at Henry with a confused and bewildered look. "Art thou alright nephew the poison must have affected thou worse then thou then the others thought. Thour method was effective though Thou shouldn't let thour mind wonder when thou art grasping something with magic it could have terrible side effects." What is our nephew talking about. Even his most orderly and hole part of his mind is affected. What is wrong with thou. What has Thou used as a crutch to prevent thee from dying to make thee have such insane thoughts. Luna thought worryingly Henry looked nervous "Oh sorry I didn't know. But it did work fell a little drained afterwards maybe I should discuss the inspiration of it with Tender Care with supervision of course to see if it can perfect certain forms of healing. Cause it might be profitable which means more bits that I can use to undo my mistakes from the past." Henry said as he kept pondering She looked like I was speaking gibberish to her face. Damn I really need to know how far ponies their understanding of science is and if the same rules apply. Still I wonder why I still have Blueblood his cutie mark not to mention how the hell just thinking of the science behind the healing process when holding somepony in a telekinetic grasp would do anything. Henry thought as the dream seemed to shake. Luna looked at Henry "it seems thou art waking up nephew. Please keep thour observations to thineself hidden for thine own image even if thour attitude is an improvement. Remember no thinking in thine weird delusions when holding somepony in thine magic it is dangerous especially if thine delusions hold some knowledge within themselves thine approach to speak with them with the Physician is commendable even if thour motivation is questionable nephew. Thou should probably relearn the arts of magic during thine recovery period. I will ask my sister to allow thine guards to escort thee to her school if anypony can teach thou it's the ponies there under supervision until we have decided thee are sound of mind enough to act on your own." Luna said kindly. Our nephew is still able to see reason within his current state but following on such delusions while holding somepony in magic is dangerous. I will have an unpleasant discussion with my sister but I wonder if his plan and mind is stable enough to handle his duties as he hopes to. We will have to wait and see but our nephew seems to be at least sane enough to see reason. I wish the old rules still applied that I could strip those of power when we find out who brought our nephew to this state. Luna thoughts dreading the conversation with Celestia about the recent developments. "That's a big if Auntie. No matter how I look at it seems insane but don't I won't publicly discuss it. Since I only spoke so openly about it because I trust Tia and you even though it's probably either going to make you see me as an insane stallion or another more frightening option. My own image comfort and mental or physical health aren't as important as my duties and our responsibilities to the ponies under us."Henry his tone turned very serious before he woke up. In the Canterlot castle medical wing. Tender Care was standing over Henry his sleeping form near Spellslinger and Calmly stated "I told you It was supposed to be impossible for him to heal somepony. He has the magical reserves of a foal and I'm against prodding a harmed and confused pony for answers." Tender care said angrily at Spellslinger Spellslinger sighed "But that's just it. He is thinking strange and acting strange he hasn't called midnight useless bat or ugly leather wing. Not to mention he is being uncommonly caring. And think about what it could do for the medicine if we understood how Blueblood did it. I'm sure if he'd want to help us"Spellslinger replied to Tender Care Tender Care just sighed "I understand where you are coming from but he is still weak and needs his rest. And without understanding of medicine he could accidentally hurt somepony. It was probably a fluke a accidental stroke of genius within the Prince his confused mind." Tender Care said in a saddened tone not being to hopeful and writing off what happened to Bon Appetite as a lucky accident. Henry woke up because of the noise but faked being asleep. Only thing going through my head is that ponies don't seem to know how to let someone rest. Henry thought to himself. Spellslinger stepped close to Tender Care "You said yourself you found Blueblood his residual magic around the wound in very small amounts that shouldn't have been able to affect somepony their wounds and that it was as if it healed perfectly and without the residual magic remaining you wouldn't have believed the wound was there. That doesn't sound like an accidental fluke but a precise cast spell." Spellslinger said smirking at Tender. Tender Care sighed "What do you expect of me Spellslinger to risk somepony their health to let Blueblood heal them and explain his way of thinking. Not to mention we don't know if it follows any logic for all we know he is tapping into chaos magic because of his confused mind. It's just too dangerous we'd need a detailed explanation of the logic behind it to understand its basics and how it works since it isn't a chant based spell which has flexible meaning using rhyme it probably most likely was a fluke unless you think Blueblood suddenly has a understanding similar to Starswirll The Bearded." I want to understand it too if it wasn't a fluke but doesn't she know the risk that comes with an untested and unknown usage of magic.Tender care thought as she looked at Spellsinger in defeat. Henry sighed and get up. "If it will give me some peace and quiet I can write down the basics behind it but from what Luna said within my dreams it's probably not going to be understood. Of course its conditions will be remains mine and I'll get a form of income if it's used for commercial gain and it will be kept quiet. If it is useful it is mine and I need to set up ways to profit of it so I can ensure one it won't be misused and second condition is that I can control of who learns it. Is that a clear order!"Henry ordered both sounding like a irritated old man. If it will give me some damn peace and quiet then I'll write basic biology understanding that . But I will put some conditions who knows might get a extra income of bits to use for my own plans. But I better keep my human knowledge under wraps if it can be applied to magic. Just understanding of RNA and DNA or god forbid atoms or of how that heat is simply vibrating excited atoms. It will be usefull if they find out the basic rules are the same but if so I'll need to keep it under wraps to prevent causing to much change until I put systems in place to profit , guide and control it . I need an book to know how far ponies stand scientifically so I don't break to much preexisting notions and so I know how I can use my knowledge to the best of my abilities. Henry thought worrying but his expression didn't show it. His expression was that of a stern and irritated stallion. Spellslinger frowned at Henry "How can you be so heartless of asking such things. It could help thousands of ponies! I thought you were changing now you are acting like a greedy dragon!" Spellslinger shouted at Henry with a mix of disappointment and anger "I agree with Spellslinger if it even could be replicated why would you keep it under such conditions how could a healing spell be misused." Tender Care said looking disappointed towards Henru. Henry crawled out of bed towards the two ponies and sighed "If it can be replicated it means other things within my poisonous fever dream can be replicated and that includes some harmful things plus I'll need to control it not to mention I need to fund other similar research endeavors and find talented ponies to create a company within the same lands I neglected before I lost my memory so I can create a blast furnace of innovation while keeping it out of the hooves of those who made an attempt at my life. You two are kind mares and I understand your disgust for this business approach but it will be needed and only Auntie Tia, Luna and Shinning Armor would be allowed to know that such changes come from me with exception of you two and Midnight. But if it works I'll be blunt to both of you would a caring parent leave their foals with the means to destroy life because my healing logic is based on the Blueprints of creation using the organisms their own healing methods and from what I've seen fasten it but a cruel or idiotic unicorn could tamper with it and cause mutation or death on a scale that is inconceivable that's why i am being not a greedy dragon but an overprotective mother hen. As long as the ponies responsible for the attempt of my life are running free I need to use everything I can to my advantage. Now give me something to write on. Oh and if it works don't control yourself and be sure to interrupt any business I might be attending. " Henry said calmly causing Spellslinger and Tender Care to hang their heads down in shame both noticing the danger Henry is foreseeing even if Henry explained it calmly like a teacher. These ponies are cute and nice but they don't understand that if it works it will attract to much attention to me. And the threats that come with it if it works. If it does I hope I can warn my aunties about the threats it can pose even if it can aid others. Henry thought as he waited to get ink and quill. Spellslinger looked at Henry "But the ponies it can help"Spellslinger said before Henry swiftly interrupted her "If it can be replicated they can get care within the lands I mismanaged or Tender Care her aid. And if we find other reliable ponies we can trust with it we might branch out asking a simple low amount of the profits. which we can then redistribute in other ways be it training ponies we trust or funding businesses or development of other fields to ensure the growth of our income and the public welfare and that is if my aunties will allow it to be used. Since I'd rather stare down a Hydra's maw then disappoint them." Henry retorted this cause Spellslinger to look a bit more happy since she finally understood Henry wasn't completely close to the idea of replicating it just that he was being careful. Tender Care grabbed a ink and quill and some scrolls and brought it to Henry"Blueblood I understand your approach but if it works as a Doctor I can't just not help ponies what if I am asked about it?" Tender Care asked kindly Henry smiled as he started to write down his understanding of biology and the phases of healing in great detail. "If the method is approved to be used by my aunties and you are questioned about it simply tell them because of the safety of Equestria and the privacy of the Royalty it can't be shared." Henry said as he calmly finished writing logic behind cell division and DNA for as much as he understood it which wasn't much only the general consensus that DNA can be compared to the blueprints of any organic creature. "I'll be honest with both of you. I am in no means a medical professional all I wrote down is just the result of me being a rather studious individual with multiple interest within my uncommon mental state. But if this proves to work I do not want either of you to tamper with any of the natural processes that is explained slightly within these scrolls. I'd rather not see you ponies cause harm by altering the genetic code of anything cause if you do you will not only lose my trust and possible future prospects of being a part of my projects. But no matter your position or rank I will end your life. Even if it makes me end up in Tartarus cause the last thing we need is another Grogar like incident of altering of beings and creating monstrosities. " Henry said threateningly as he handed the scrolls back to Tender Care. I don't want to explain to them I had a personal fascination of multiple sciences. I really hope this can stay under wraps for a while last thing I need is to much attention on me. I will have enough of that when I talk to my aunties. God they will think I am insane. Well at least someone insane enough to see the possible risks a hypothetical spell can do. I mostly hope it stays hypothetical in the episode where Cozy Glow almost destroyed all magic most monsters in Tartarus broke down in their base animals but when created with this hypothetical method I fear that will not be enough. Henry thought as he then looked towards The now frightened Spellslinger and Tender Care. Tender Care was shaking by Henry his death threat and fear that with enough understanding the logic behind it could be used to make monsters she looked nervous and then shakily spoke. "Do you.. mean that.. killing .. and Grogar part." Tender Care asked nervously. Spellslinger looked in shock awaiting for the answer to Tender her Question. Henry sighed and looked down. "I sadly do. I am willing to let you attempt to recreate and study my knowledge but if it is possible to replicate as a Prince I will need to take actions to ensure Equestria isn't altered badly by my knowledge. My duty out ways my personal desires on this point. I can't let a nation build on harmony and love be corrupted like that." Henry said in a somber dark tone before Spellslinger stepped to him and nuzzled him. causing him to look up at her. Spellslinger smiled "I understand but we won't let it go that far. If Tender can replicate it you will be the first to know Blueblood so don't worry we aren't going to act like dumb foals and tamper with something we don't understand but give us some credit too. You are supposed to be resting not worrying about things like this alright. I know Tender will listen to your warning." Spellslinger said comfortingly as she nuzzled into Henry and hugged him this calmed his worries a lot and caused the tired stallion to calm down. Tender smiled at Spellslinger for calming Henry before looking at the notes in the scrolls which wasn't what she expected where she thought would possible be the scrabbles of a confused mind stood something that coincided with her medical understanding but more advanced and detailed she looked confused then smiled even if she didn't understand it but she was the logic behind it. "I will but i'll need to study this . It's not what I expected." Tender Care was entirely focused on the scrolls. This doesn't make sense. Did Blueblood make a deal with a Tartarean demon or spirit to gain this knowledge. It's insane. Tender thought as she started reading the scrolls. Spellslinger looked confused at Tender Care "Why not a healing spell is a healing spell right?" Tender care said as she broke the hug with Henry and trotted towards Tender Care and peaked over her shoulder only for her jaw to drop. "This is wow just... uhm good luck Tender" She said before looking at Henry then back at the scrolls in confusion. "Now then Spellslinger what is my current duty as a noble do I have any paperwork to manage or can I continue with my rehabilitation?"Henry asked with a big smile the mare was to busy gleaming over the scrolls Tender Care was looking at and again looked at Henry with utter confusion on her face as if she saw a singing fish. Tender Care seemed ecstatic while reading to scrolls and then looked up to Henry with a grin. Spellslinger on the other hoof was confused by the scrolls and then quickly turned her attention to Henry "Yes you have some duties to attend to just paperwork. though it's good you can still speak and write Equestrean. it will make this much easier for both of us to have some semblance of normalcy." Spellsinger said as she stepped outside of the Medical wing with Henry following close by. Leaving a quite amused and entranced Tender Care behind. Henry looks at Tender Care before he leaves Is she going to be ok? She isn't going to go full lesson Zero Twilight Sparkle on my ass later I hope. And maybe I should be more careful with what I write down.Henry thought worryingly before Spellslinger kindly booped Henry his snout "Come on Blueblood your paperwork won't do itself." Spellsinger said as she got Henry his attention. Hmm I am confused how English and Equestrean are the same flipping language and yay paperwork the bane of an office drone and a noble alike. Henry thought sarcastically before he sighed and followed Spellslinger. Spellslinger guided Henry towards an office in the Solar wing of the castle. Near the door were two Solar guards. Henry looked around confused "Uhm where is Midnight? Isn't she supposed to be guarding my royal plot?' Henry said jokingly as he walked inside the office. Spellslinger giggled slightly as she followed Henry and smiled at Henry "She will be here shortly. She had a little errand to run. Why does you like her company your highness?"Spellslinger said teasingly with a cheeky smile. Henry just sighed "You both are quiet exquisite mares of comparable Beauty Whilst your soft and kind nature is one of your charms. I find myself equally attracted to the more wild and predatory nature of Midnight but do not expect me to act on those desires for I will not indulge myself in such desires until I have dealt with the more pressing matters."Henry said sounding like a smooth Gentlecolt causing Spellsinger to bush heavily. These ponies are to damn cute but I'm happy I could string it in those words. I'm a little rusty when it comes to my flirting game. I hope she appreciates the honesty. Henry thought as his cheeks turning from their normal snow white color to a crimson red as he realized he openly said his opinion of them. Spellslinger stuttered for a while "Do .. you mean that your highness?" She asked nervously looking at Henry. Henry smiled "I do but alas my fair kind Guardian Angel for I can not court you or thine dark aid for I am plagued by internal conflict about this attraction so it is not yet to be." Henry said in a suave tone as he smiled at her and winked. Spellslinger just stood there blushing like an idiot giggling like a school girl. Henry smiled at the cute display "My fair maiden could you give me my paperwork be it private income of myself , Taxation or the land I manage. I myself would also prefer our intresting conversation with a Beautiful mare as yourself but as I stated my fair lady. It is a manner of internal conflict." Henry said calmly trying to regain his composure Spellslinger nodded as she grabbed multiple scrolls with her magic trying to regain her composure."Your highness how do you know I know where those papers are if I may ask?"Spellslinger asked Henry who now calmly sat his plot behind a desk with quills, ink and scrolls. Henry just smiled "Aah that is simple when you spy on somepony you go through such information to see what the pony is upto. I'm sorry that I stopped using the more extravagant vocabulary but I need to focus on work. I told you before having two ponies spy on me was going to be a boon. But worry not for I hold no grudge to fair maidens as yourself and your compatriot." Henry replied smiling a cheeky smile as Spellslinger levitated the requested scrolls onto the table trying not to let Henry get the better of her. Spellslinger just was talking gibberish in the shock of Henry his comment. While Henry was calmly reading the scrolls to overview his finances and duties. Midnight trotted in and she noticed Spellslinger just standing guard and smiling towards Henry with a hopeful smile. "Am I seeing this right Blueblood is doing paperwork?" Midnight asked confused. Henry his gaze fell on Midnight "Yes i am now and I also answered the noisy guard her questions about my attraction to certain mares with rather honeyed words now I really must focus on work. Hmm the housing in my lands is an issue for the Thestrals and there were reports of corruption and crime. If I temporary give up my abode to aid the Thestrals while we fund construction even cutting my own budget down. I could let the servants of my abode take care of the Thestrals during their stay but that still leaves an issue with the Canterlot Orphanage I seem to be responsible for. I could use my abode in Canterlot Temporary abode for them as well but then I'll have to inconvenience my aunties. Not to mention the corruption issue. Any changes would make the ring leaders responsible for the corruption flee. If only I had a map so i could plan accordingly and some troops that would accompany me." Henry said annoyed scratching his head with his hoof. Midnight looked at Henry in confusion "Why would you need troops or a map?" She asked as she stepped to the desk Henry was working at. Spellslinger just silently let Henry work as she took a map of the region Blueblood manages and brought it to the desk. Henry smiled as he noticed the map "Why I need a map my cute little leather wings guard is very simple. If I induce change within my domain those who thrived in the lack of proper management. The thieves and corrupt denizens would take notice. So while the changes are being prepared or enforced we need to strike at the heart of corruption. The missing pony reports make me think slave ring or diamond dog mine. So Midnight you are a Thestral and probably know my lands is there any tunnel or mine system near the county its main town wait does that read Dartmoor. That isn't even a pun as a name Sweet Celestia who named that town." Henry just facehooved. Midnight looked confused at Henry "It's a normal town name. As for your question there is a cave system nearby but most ponies and Thestrals stay clear of it." Midnight said pointing her hoof at a place on the map causing Henry to encircle the area. "Good with any luck Equestria it's kind and peaceful nature means that the seeds of corruption don't blossom so well as I hope but right now I'll write an order which will have to be overseen by my aunt's during our meeting with them later." Henry said stiffly as he started writing. Spellslinger looked confused at Henry as he said that"Blue what do you mean by that?" Spellslinger asked confused. Henry continued writing but looked up to Spellslinger "Oh did I say that outloud. I am sorry but you don't need to look further then the story of hearts warming eve. Or the pillars of Equestria. But it still shows the most wonderful things in Equestria." Henry said laughing a kind fatherly laugh. Before he finished writing and rolled up a scroll. Spellslinger smiled "Yes they are beautiful tales but not everything is that nice. The everfree forest near ponyville for example is a rather scary place. The plants grow wild the clouds move on their own and the animals have nopony to take care of themselves and some monsters that live there are dangerous even for some of the guard." Spellslinger said sounding like a teacher explaining something to a student. Henry just laughed "I'm sorry but then you think I am insane but honestly it doesn't sound that scary to me" Henry said laughing I think ponies would be terrified of earth then oh dear this is just priceless. I wonder what monsters she will mention to attempt to convince me it's dangerous. Henry thought trying to contain his snickering as he attempted to look serious. Midnight flew up to Henry and pointed at him" You wouldn't say that if you knew what lived there Blueblood. Timberwolves, cockatrices manticores and so much more." Midnight said as she flew right in Henry his face. Henry smiled "Well I better read up on them later then to try and find their weaknesses and how to deal with them. I mean the best weapon is ones brain. Now I've already finished my duties I've written the scroll for my auntie on how I'll deal with my responsibilities I think I'd love some literature maybe educational so I can study magic either that or something soothing like music or sitting in a garden with a cup of tea since any magical excersises even to simple levitation on which I have been relying heavily combined with the potion I've taken before aides in regaining my strength so using magic while entertaining myself doesn't seem out of the question. I wouldn't want the servants of the castle to get suspicion and rumors to spread about me that could raise suspicion to those who attempted to kill me." Henry said smiling as he got from behind the desk > Chapter 4 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Later at the Royal Canterlot Garden After handing the scroll he wrote previously to Spellslinger to put in her saddlebags for later. Henry headed towards the royal Canterlot Gardens with his two guards in tow. This confused the two mares since He was rather focused on regaining strength and knowledge while being secluded. So a garden that is open to the public at special events or predetermined trips was rather strange but they didn't mind it was much more pleasant then just standing in a boring office. What the two mares didn't expect was the expression of joy and wonder that formed on Henry's face as they came there. Henry was enamored by the beautiful flora of the garden and stood still there for a full three minutes before speaking. "Well I expected something beautiful but this is far beyond my expectations. I hope I can make a habit of coming here." Henry said in wonder as he calmly trotted into the garden filled with many colorful and rare plants before he calmly laid down in the grass opening. Spellslinger smiled at the expression of Henry "It sure is. Sadly the animals that live here are a little shy but yes it's quite beautiful." Spellslinger said as she sat near Henry. Midnight just followed them and sighed as she dropped a book near Henry "I prefer this place during the night. Now Blueblood don't think I'll let you be a lazy flank now. I even got you a book about the basics of magic out of the library. So no being a lazy flank." Midnight said as she teasingly bumped Henry. This only caused Henry to smile. "I know. I have a lot of work to do but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy ourselves. A nice cup of tea and pleasant company is it's own reward even if we do not get much done." Henry said in a kindhearted manner before being distracted by some bunnies hopping around in the grass which only made him smile more. Spellslinger found the soft kindhearted manner of speaking pleasant and smiled as she also layed down in the grass. Midnight just put the book near Henry "You still have work to do Blueblood." Midnight said sounding sternly. Henry just laughed and saluted jokingly "Yes ma'am." He said jokingly as he took the book and opened it. And enjoyed the warmth of the sun and peace and beauty of the garden but when he noticed the book's title he cringed. "The basics of magic for little Unicorn's. Well there goes my pride." Henry commented as he opened it. Spellslinger giggled like a school Filly and commented "It's very good for understanding the basics of magic. I remember my first copy of it. Though the explanation on feeling magic and understanding your connection with it for telekinesis and channeling was kind of hard to grasp. Though it's funny how midnight took this book." Spellslinger said smiling as she looked over Henry his shoulder who was calmly reading the book. Midnight just facehooved "I just thought since he forgot so much a children education book would be the best way to learn." Midnight said in her defense as she layed down on the ground Henry yawned as his eyes darted over the pages Hmm so magic normally is limited in somepony and requires practice but extreme emotions can effect it. Because of how the unicorn channel magic through their horn one must practice spells a lot so they gain a better control of the magic they channel to prevent unwanted accident. Why they show it with so many damn pictures I'll never understand. Oh so internal magic flow is channeled through a unicorns horn to react to ambient magic in the air to cause change. Henry thought as he summarizes what he was reading "Hmm maybe we could have a little pick-nick here in the garden. Some sandwiches for all three of us and a cup of tea sounds nice." Henry said smiling Midnight just sighed "Fine I'll go tell a maid or somepony else of the castle staff. Oh and Spellslinger keep Blueblood out of trouble." Midnight said as she trotted off. Spellslinger smiled at Midnight and teasingly said "I didn't know you cared." Henry just smirked and in a Dreamy voice spoke "Said the kind maiden asking for my interest in mares." Henry his teasing set Spellslinger in a stuttering and blushing craze causing her to hide her face with her hooves. Midnight could only laugh at this display and trotted of to tell a maid to bring some food and tea to the gardens. Henry was enjoying the embarrassed state of Spellslinger and his peaceful surroundings and smiled as he felt at peace for a little while but then he began to ponder about something for a while only to be interrupted by Midnight return together with somepony in a maid uniform. "Aah the tea has arrived good. Spellslinger maybe you should stop being embarrassed like a school Filly and join us."Henry said jokingly only to get whack against his head from Midnight. "I said you. I was allowed to act if you didn't behave Blueblood and teasing a poor mare isn't behaving like a gentlecolt." Midnight said with a smirk as the maid Unicorn pony brought a basket of sandwiches and a pot and some cups to where Henry and Spellslinger were sitting. Henry just laughed "I'm sorry I just well enjoy the company and it's all in good fun teasing mares playfully isn't forbidden right?" Henry said smiling as he rubbed his head where got hit. "No but you need to focus on your studies not tease the poor innocent mare." Midnight said smirking at Spellslinger. The maid that accompanied Midnight with the food and tea was in utter shock at how Henry and Other mares were acting. Spellslinger bursted at Henry and Midnight "Will you two stop it and Midnight is right you should be studying Blueblood." This caused the mare that brought the food and tea to look even more confused. Henry had a kind warm smile as he made the tea pot and tea cups and poured Midnight, Spellslinger and himself some tea. He recognised the smell of the tea immediately it was black tea with the oil of bergamont to add flavor or in laymans terms Earl Grey tea. "Yes I know but why don't we all enjoy some calming tea it would be a waste to let it get cold." Henry said calmly That mare that came with Midnight seems in shock. I can't openly discuss anything and need to play the kind an probably amnesiac Role for as long as they are near. If poison can be slipped in one of the staff is in loop and ponies talk to each other so they might gossip leading to issues. So I will need to be wary of what I do and say.Henry thought as he closed his eyes and relaxed as he drank from the tea. Midnight sighed and took her cup. "I didn't think you'd just drop studying to drink tea. It's not like it will help you with anything." Midnight said annoyed towards Henry. This caused the Maid pony to look worried and shake vigorously. "Actually according to the book you brought concentration and calm mind help with the channeling of magic and casting of spells." Henry said calmly as his eyes were still closed and he kept pondering about the subject of ambient magic knowing it was everywhere and because of the episode with Cozy Glow trying to destroy all magic got him pondering. If magic is everywhere here and I can effect the world by channeling magic to invoke change I could theoretically let ambient magic in or get atunned to it to see well depending on my reach which probably is limited by my own internal magic and my limits within it. Henry thought and within his mind suddenly he saw the entire Royal Garden and all the critters hiding within and the ponies that accompanied him but somepony was staring at them from the distance before a headache claimed him and this strange sight faded and he opened his eyes feeling mentally exhausted as he struggled to keep his cup of tea levitating near him. Spellslinger just looked at Henry who was sweating and noticed his grip on the cup was hard for him. "Blueblood! If it's to hard to keep channeling magic you should stop. You are probably worse of then we thought." She said worryingly. Henry turned his head to hear and whispered "It's not that i had one of my weird ponder about something while channeling magic moments. I figured out we are being watched. Behind those bushes back towards the entrance to the ball room." Henry whispered softly before taking another sip of tea to not seem suspicious. Spellslinger looked at Henry in shock"I am not sure if you are paranoid or pulling my tail. But we should look and make sure if somepony is there they don't notice." Spellslinger whispered back before taking a sip of her cup Both Midnight and the maid looked confused at Spellslinger and Henry. "I disagree. Milk in such good tea would ruin it Spellslinger. Though I understand you have your tasted and wouldn't think of you less it is just my opinion but i am happy you agree with it's usefulness to help somepony concentrate and calm down."Henry said calmly as he layed down in the grass. Midnight just stared confused at Spellslinger and Henry "You two were discussing tea? That's why you whispered? Honestly you two whisper about the weirdest things." Midnight commented Spellslinger just laughed "Well Blueblood didn't want to seem to uptight about it. Since he worries about his manners and image." Spellslinger said teasingly as she bumped Henry playfully with her hoof. The bump caused Henry his concentration to break making him drop the teacup and a small sap to come from his horn. "My apologies for the mess it seems I haven't fully recovered from the poison." Henry said as he closed his eyes and tried to fight the headache and horn ache. How the hell does a horn hurt it makes no bloody sense. Henry thought worryingly not being used to Blueblood body his abilities limits and what certain senses meant like the mental exhaustion. The maid quickly grabs the teacup with her magic and looks worried at Henry. "Prince Blueblood did you just say poison. The staff heard something happened to make you seclude yourself but we weren't given any details." The maid asked nervously. Henry fights the headache and looks at the maid "There was an attempt on my life miss it luckily failed but left me worse for wear. But it isn't important. I've got two good guards and my aunties who will help me manage my responsibilities while I re-adapt until I can manage my duties myself." Henry said in a calm kind voice. If everypony thinks the changes I'll enduce and my responsibilities are managed by my aunties it will not come and bite me in the flank. And all other ways of behaviour will be seen as results of re-education. Henry thought calmly. The maid just smiled "Oh that explains the pleasant changes not that you were unpleasant before your highness." The maid said as she looked a bit embarrassed. Henry just laughed "Oh believe me from what I've heard I was a hooffull but do not worry about offending me about my past actions I myself find revolted by some of my past actions." Henry replied with a kind smile as his headache got worse but then unexpectedly he felt something fluffy land on his horn with a soothing warmth and Infront of his eyes were red majestic feathers. "Cute!!! Fluffy feathers" Henry blurted out in glee as he noticed Philomena flew landed on his head. The maid looked confused while Spellslinger and Midnight just giggled at Henry his response to having a Phoenix land on his horn. Philomena jumped of Henry his horn after playing with his hair making it a big mess and let out a playful shriek. Henry just smiled and started baby talking Philomena while scratching her behind her head against her way her feathers fell. Causing Philomena to playfully nibble at Henry. Meanwhile near the entrance of the ballroom to the Royal garden's An unknown pony looked at the display confused observing it until they heard hoofsteps getting closer and left the area. Back with Henry in the Royal Canterlot Gardens Philomena had puffed up her feathers and was now pudy in Henry his hooves. The mares also joined in the petting of the warm fluffy feather ball. Enjoying their tea and Hay sandwiches. Henry just smiled as other critters of the royal garden suddenly came out of their hiding holes and slowly approached where the mares and him were sitting. Spellslinger laughed "I didn't expect you to enjoy Philomena so much. When you were a child you and her were inseparable according to Princess Celestia." Spellslinger said happily while petting Philomena Henry just smiled "I guess amnesia is good for something. Also If I can cuddle it I will spoil it. I can't help it. They are so adorable and cute." Henry said smiling as he started reminiscing about earth. His most favourite time was when he was hired for a freelance job to program a management system for a shelter to make a website and management software and how he enjoyed taking his laptop working on site first going there for analysing the company and write what they required but then wanting to work on site because he enjoyed the company of the animals. The parrot in the office escaped it's cage multiple times to land on him and playfully wobble or wanting head scritches. After a while the animal shelter let the parrot free in the office because it always went to Henry even if it broke out during his lunch or smoke breaks. As Henry reminisced a sense of joy and happiness overwhelmed him and before he noticed it the bunnies and other critters of the Royal Canterlot Garden were near him and he couldn't help but smile and pet and cuddle to his heart's content. I missed this. Nothing is more pleasant then the unconditional love of an animal. Henry thought to himself as he started petting a bat. Midnight looked worryingly at Henry"Maybe we better go Blueblood. You used to have a distate and hate towards bats and Thestrals." Midnight said worryingly Henry just smiled "You will not take me away from all these cuddly sweethearts not even the sky puppy."Henry said smiling as he pet the bat. "No she won't not even the bat pony can take me away from you cute sky doggo woggo" Henry said baby talking the bat who seemed to enjoy the pets and attention and squeaked happily filling Henry up with childlike joy. Spellslinger smiled overjoyed as she was petting some bunnies."I think it's a good change atleast we know how to bribe the Prince into doing his work." Spellslinger said jokingly. Midnight laughed "Well it's better then I expected. I still think Prince Blueblood should practice magic you unicorns keep saying that emotions can effect magic so maybe the animals will help." Midnight said and she then noticed Henry smile a happy childlike mischievous smile. Spellslinger looked worried at Henry."Oh no no no. Blueblood you are not going to try any more magic you could barely hold a cup before" Spellslinger stated but Henry wasn't listening. Henry smiled and noticed after the joy and happiness from the animals his horn and headache left. I'm no longer mentally tired nor do I have horn or headaches. Maybe that means I can try magic again. Hmm what did the book say understanding and familiarity. If magic is so flexible I might be able to mimic hands and scritch and pet the animals. Henry thought as his smile grew wider and his horn started to glow and before Spellslinger could even comment on him not listening a white levitating transparent white hand was near Philomena petting her and ruffling her feathers while Henry was still cuddling and petting the bat. Spellslinger just facehooved "You shouldn't be doing that." Spellslinger said sounding like a mare talking to her foal "How did you make a construct with magic and why is it a malformed claw?" Spellslinger asked in confusion. Henry just smiled and continued the petting spree "Because then it's soft and only has hard bits on certain parts perfect for petting and giving scritches. As to how I did it I got no clue but it's not to hard so I just imagined it's form and how it moves and I can feel what it touches this is just to much fun." Henry his horn glowed a brighter white and another see through white hand appeared and started petting one of the gardens it's bunnies. Spellslinger just smiled "Well if it helps you get better at magic and have fun it's alright for now. But you better not overexert yourself. " Spellslinger said as she continued petting nearby critters. Henry was overjoyed and continued petting and scritching every animal he could baby talking all of them. I feel like a Disney Princess with all these cutie patooties around me to pet Henry thought to himself filled with joy Spellslinger , Midnight and the maid couldnt help but giggle and laugh at what they saw unfurl and after a while both Henry and them where surrounded by animals all cuddling up to them and wanting pets and scritches. Only to be interrupted but what can only be described as a kind laugh which was followed by a kind motherly voice. "When Philomena flew away and I heard you were doing duties I didn't expect this nephew" Celestia said kindly looking at Henry with Philomena and a bat cuddled up to his side and being surrounded by animals all around. Henry just smiled at Celestia"Well I did have to practice magic and I well tried to use a construct made with magic to pet the animals and see how long I can hold it up to train magic." Henry said embarrassed. Midnight, Spellslinger and the maid smiled nervously for being caught snuggling up and petting animals on the job. Celestia just laughed and smiled "No need to worry nephew I saw. It was quiet adorable to see. It seems you have achieved something you wanted when you were a little foal. And the staff shouldn't worry you did your work dutifully even if Bluey made it quite a unexpected job." Celestia said softly laughing motherly. The three mares sighed in relief sinking back into the cuddle pile with the sweet critters. Henry just smiled and looked at Celestia "You could join us auntie? I'm sure with your warmth and motherly nature they'd cuddle around you too" Henry said embarrassed about the situation he found himself in. Celestia smiled a kindly motherly smile before looking at Henry"I am sorry to interrupt your fun Bluey but you desired a meeting in private so we better get going." Celestia said kindly but Henry just pouted in response. "Could you maybe teleport us away or levitate me out carefully I just can't move these cuddle bugs. They are two cute and sweet and comfy." Henry said while making puppy eyes towards Celestia.Please Celestia don't make me the buzz kill. I can't move these cute patooties my heart can't handle that. Henry thought when suddenly his thoughts got interrupted by Celestia laughing at Henry his request. "You really have regressed slightly to your old foalish ways haven't you. I am happy to see you have regained such a kind and tenderness heart." Celestia said in a kind tone but as she looked at the bat that was cuddled up against Henry her expression temporarily turned to worry or shock before returning to her normal kind expression. "Yeah that's something I'll have to discuss with Auntie Luna and you and I worry about it."Henry said as his mood was brought down by the realisation why Celestia was there. Should I tell them honestly it's dangerous. I know I should it would be the best thing to do but I don't understand what is going on myself or if it would hurt them. Henry thought worryingly as his previous childish smile faded then suddenly he heard a voice in his head again. You should tell them. Aunty said honesty is always the answer A little colt voice rang through Henry his head. Easy for you too say you aren't probably possessing somepony and what are you? You aren't the grown up Blueblood I know off. He would most likely want to prevent me from saying anything relating to my current situation to his auntie's. Henry thought trying to reply to the little colt voice. Our aunties!! And you aren't possessing me I had fun with the animals and I don't know what you mean mister aren't you the nice grown up version of me? The little colt voice asked confused. Uhm? No I don't think I am. And how can I only hear you when I have an inner conflict and what do you mean you had fun with the animals that was all me I just like cute things. Wait a second pony swears. Attraction to mares! Oh buck me I'm already seeing what's going on and I don't like it one bit. Henry thought as he started to get nervous. Celestia looked worried at Henry and booped his muzzle "Are you alright Bluey? You didn't seem to be fully there." Celestia asked worryingly. Henry shook his head as he regained focus and looked at Princess Celestia "Honestly no, but we better get going. Spellslinger, Midnight time to go and I hope you didn't misplace the scroll I wrote for the meeting. I am sorry for being a buzz kill but duty calls." Henry said sounding serious as he got up the entire talk he dreaded putting him back on focus but as he got up the bat and Philomena both clinged to him. "I guess the sky doggo and Philomena want to come along and i can't remove them." Henry said calmly as he noticed Celestia her horn glowing ready to teleport them to where Luna was probably waiting. > Chapter 5 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- One Teleportation Spell later. Henry was recuperating from the shock of being teleported. "Sweet Celestia! That is something I will need to get used to." Henry said in suprise as the sensation of being teleported by magic and all his theoretical discussion and the meaning behind it with his friends came flooding in. After a few seconds he noticed they were in a study, Books and scrolls and bookcases as far as the eye could see and even a bird porch next to a beautiful oaken desk standing on a beautiful white marble floor.Yep most likely Celestia her private study or workroom or something of that nature Henry thought calmly. Celestia laughed at her name being used like that "It's adorable to see your responses to such simple things Bluey." Celestia said with a smile. Henry just sighed and notices Luna standing near the Desk "It's not adorable. Honestly I wish I could focus on learning magic but considering the current situation of my lands , my previous bad management and foolish spending sprees my hooves are tied" Henry said a bit worried and down only to be cheered up by both Philomena and the bat rubbing against his face cheering him up slightly. As Luna noticed the bat her expression turned to one of worry but the smile that formed on Henry's face made the worry die down a little."Thanks Philomena and you too sky doggo. Well we better get to work Spellslinger hand them the scroll I wrote previously. This is going to be one unpleasant meeting" Henry said bracing himself for the possible backlash of his situation. Spellslinger handed the scroll to Celestia who walked towards The desk where Luna was standing and opened it, they were quickly joined by the prying eyes of Midnight and Spellslinger who themselves were unaware what Henry wrote within it. Plan to handle current situations. It has come to my attention that the land I manage their denizens have it hard therefore my private abode within Dartmoor which is large and seems to have way to much staff will be opened to the public as temporary housing to ensure the Thestrals in my managed region have a good abode to reside in aswell as a location to get food and drink to ensure their well-being. My local servants or those who attend to me at that location will cater to their needs with the same loyalty and dedication they should show me if not more. Whilst this is a temporary solution my own income of bits will be made available to use to ensure to revitalisation and construction of required infrastructure within the area of Dartmoor. I only require enough to pay my servants and aids to continue their work and enough income to be able to ensure I can eat highly protein filled food whilst I recover my strength. This might currently lessen the direct issues at hoof but there is an issue of disappearances and possible corruption within the area I manage for this I would like to temporary use part of the Equestrian guard to accompany me whilst I head to nearby cave systems to look for signs of corruption most likely diamond dog slaving rings and smuggling within the area. But a probability of a nearby dragon is possible because of the high amounts of missing denizens a large diamond dog mine or slave ring might have attracted a dragon in the area. This military intervention is of high importance and must be inacted before other changes in the area are pushed to not warn any of the corrupt individuals in advance. Though I understand neither of you would want me to risk myself to accompany such an expedition this is final either respect my desire to fix the mistakes I've inherited from my previous foolish self. Or state that I am a prince only in title and I will look for other means to root out the corruption within the area which will be less legal and hospitable. Considering this there is no middle ground to achieve with me and if Tender Care proves my method of healing magic works and you would have decided to not let me take the required actions for the best of the subjects I'm responsible for. I'd gladly part ways with both of you and renounce any title or connections to Equestria and it's royalty so I will be able to act without it affecting royalty directly but it would require me to alter my approach considering the next subject on this plan. Third important approach would require cooperation of both of my Aunties which is public decree of amnesia and getting so called aid managing my land if you give me a sudonym that will be acting like a false regent to my responsibilities while I could remain secluded whilest I relearn most things and to draw suspicion away from me whilst the execution of other aspects of this list would ensure stability and growth within the Dartmoor and the surrounding region I'm responsible for under the non existent regent's name would be a good lure to get to the bottom of the underlying source of corruption that led to my assassination attempt where it may come. Ontop of that the amnesia part would be explain my weird behaviour and would explain the desire for education and knowledge of course I'll combine this with a rather kind and naive front which would result if I was someone's previous pawn to regain some semblance of autonomy and say while also giving me a easy public reason to undo my previous mistakes if they should arise which would lure anypony who had a semblance of sway over my decisions to try and revert or manipulate me since I'd be to useful to be discarded as one of the only leads for them to the nonexistent regent. I'd most likely also need to be taught how to wash myself and care for my coat mane and tail. Fourth goal (optional) using the knowledge of my insanity, hallucination or what could be a pre-merging of personalities it's knowledge to turn fasten the recuperation of my lands and ensure a major growth for ponykind. Though not all knowledge will be applied if magic is flexible to the point that Tender Care is able to recreate my previous feat with the wounded cook. I fear for the fate of everypony if certain knowledge escaped and of course I wish to capitalise on the knowledge to be able to fund further research and turn Dartmoor into a blast furnace of innovation. Vladimir Blueblood The mares looked in shock at the written scroll. Luna was the first to speak. "Has thou completely lost thou senses Blueblood! Thou want us to lie to our ponies and let thou wander off with innocent ponies to the lands thou manages to deal with something thou thinks is there without having any evidence of the sort even going so far to state if thou doesn't get thine way thou would drop thine title to use other methods and to top it all off thour insanity has thouself believing thine mind is affected by what thou used as a crutch. Thou has also told thine physician of thine delusion fueled spell when we told thou not to share it. " Luna said angrily at Henry but was quickly calmed down by Celestia. Who promptly turned towards Henry with a worrying gaze. "Blueblood tell us what do you mean by pre-merging of personalities or what you think is affecting your mind and be honest with us. We want to help you." Celestia said sounding like a worrying mother Henry just sat there nervously hugging and petting his animal company to try and steel his nerves. Then after a little while he spoke "I am scared. I've woken up as something I don't remember being in the medical wing. Only having tid bits of information to go with and those come from sources that makes no sense. The fear of hurting you two if the reality of the situation is what I theorise it is. " Henry said nervously this made the mares looked more confused then worried or angry. Then Henry spoke again tears coming from his eyes "I am either possessing your nephew slowly merging with a suppressed remnant of his personality, a messed up fever dream from his Psyche or having a very realistic coma dream. Honestly it doesn't matter either way what is going on with me. I'm either going to completely regress into my foal like mindset , the mentality of the previous Blueblood before the incident , some weird amalgamation of those options or something entirely different. My most trusted tool has always been my mind. I can't trust it now." Henry said almost breaking down but Philomena and the bat comforted him while the ponies looked at him with a mixture of shock and Compassion. Celestia stepped towards Henry and looked down at him with compassion. Henry looked down at the ground his tail instinctively going between his hind legs and his ears drooping down. Celestia stepped closer putting a hoof on Henry his shoulder but as she wanted to speak Luna interrupted. "Thou believes thou art either possessing our nephew or thou art having a psychosis. If thou truly are possessing our nephew why does thou refer to us as aunties?" Luna said in a calm compassionate tone as she looked at the distraught stallion. "Luna! Now isn't the time to question him. He is having a breakdown no matter if what he says is true or not. He is confused and scared" Celestia said sounding motherly but Henry pushed Celestia her hoof of his shoulder. Both Spellslinger and Midnight looked at Henry with compassion the same stallion that previously seemed either calm and in control now looked seemed broken. "No she is right." Henry said in a calm tone as he dried his eyes with his hoof and tried to appear more brave standing firmly. "Luna or well auntie Luna. I have recently been hearing the voice of a little colt in my head the same colt of the memory you watched me go in. I'd expect him to talk to me now because previously he did talk during emotional moments. He told me to call you both our aunties. He's a good little colt which only makes this entire situation more messed up."Henry said as his calm tone shifted to anger. "It just bucking sickens me that such a nice seeming kid turned into the arrogant stupid mismanaging noble I hate. I know bad nobles aren't born they are made considering how he was as a colt. But I can't let him deal with all this.I feel his attachments. I felt emotions with those suppressed memories and I can't just let a kid deal with this all that isn't who I am. As for those responsible who put us in this situation. Wether I am just a personality born from madness or I was truly ripped from my home or this is just a comatose dream doesn't matter one bit. I will make those responsible pay not in blood or coin but I will make them lose all their power. Use the rebuilding of Dartmoor to fuel innovations that will run them out of their economical or governmental power. Whilest I act as a amnesiac using the false regent to execute that plan and then when they and their cohorts lie powerless, I'll disarm them one by one letting the proof leak to the public and when I finally find the one ontop I'll make them tumble whilst showing to our citizens and them publicly it was my plan all along and leave them at the side as the living waste of space they are. I might never forgive them but to me they'll be insignificant and powerless when I'm done with them. They'll be able to better themselves but no matter I would have won. I'd have won the hearts of the ponies by stamping out corruption where I can find it whilest better the lives of others. And those who tried to kill me for being in their way or if it was motivated out of being a useless pawn in their eyes will understand one fundamental truth. That they made a large mistake and are dealing with somepony who sees them as not worth a second afterwards. They might have caused me alot of harm but they aren't worth my vengeful ire. And it's better for ponies like them to lose credibility and power and fall to the wayside as dust forgotten by the march of time but if they wish to better themselves the option is there. In all truth I would gladly ensure they fall to the wayside and have no hoof to stand on or rebuild from but it's not my right to take their freedom and possibility of a future away but as I stated before they aren't worth the worst I can dish out. For even if they caused me much turmoil with their attempt they unexpectedly did something that might be better for all." Henry said angrily seeming like a plotting predator as the normally large pupils were smaller and focused. The gaze and Henry his words made both Midnight and Spellslinger quiver but Luna looked at Henry in understanding while Celestia looked in worryingly at him unsure to worry for her ponies or what the poison had done to her nephew. Nephew what has happened to make you switch so easily from a joyful confused stallion that pranked the guards not to long ago to this. Celestia worryingly thought but then Henry his advice to the guard sprung back into her mind advice sounding like it would fit from the time when Equis still had major conflict or when the tribes were divided then she realised something the mentality maybe was strange in modern Equestria but back during the days of her mentor and even the pillars such mentalities were more common in Stallions. Spellslinger shakingly spoke "If an attempt at murder and what happened to you isn't worth your worst then what is?" The mare asked worryingly this caused Henry to cough slightly. "Simple it's the destruction of possibilities of others their futures. I am of a firm belief that helping others uplifting them, teaching them with kindness and sparking their interests theirs spark of life to want to learn and make new discoveries to innovate but remember what I said about the healing spell Tender Care is trying to replicate. I can already see multiple ways to use it as a weapon. It's a double edged sword. Buck give me a rock and telekenetic magic grasp and enough time to learn and adapt and I'd probably figure out how to accelerate the rock towards somepony at deadly speeds that it would be lethal to almost anything but even if I can doesn't mean I should. I am no Grogar or even Sombra. Yes I can cause maybe even worse pain then them but I care about ponies. I have ethics and honestly I do not want to spoil the peace my aunties have built. Because I know what that would bring and I don't want to see it. I don't think I even have the right too." Henry said emotionally shaking his ears and tail moving rapidly as Philomena climbed on his head and the bat layed on his back. "I do not know what to say I'm probably sounding completely insane and from whatever point of view you look at the situation it is insane. But I will tell you something to think of whether Its a form of insanity or not I've been able to heal somepony when my magic should be the strength of a foal. And understand that magic wasn't a resource I had before."Henry said but as he was about to continue talking Tender care barged in the room completely excited holding the scrolls Henry wrote. Celestia her gaze shifted to Tender Care" Tender care, Why have you barged into a private meeting is something the matter?" Celestia asked in a motherly tone. "No well Yes your highness. It's about Prince Blueblood his notes he gave me." Tender Care said trying to hold back her excitement. Celestia kindly smiled at Tender care trying not to show her worries about her nephew."Well then Tender Care what has my nephew's notes thaught you?" Celestia calmly asked while periodically hazing towards Henry. "Our prince isn't insane his healing magic was potent way too potent and precise. I've never seen anything like it. I've used the explanation on how the body attacks foreign objects in the sick bay for ponies or other illnesses after the basic test with his methods was done. It worked out so precisely and It didn't even use much magic with this knowledge those not talented in magic could help ponies in emergencies it even could reconnect detached limbs. Who knows what more he wonders he gleamed in his situation" Tender Care said completely esatic causing the other mares in the room to look in shock at the mostly calm Tender Care. But their shock was quickly broken by a deep laughter. The mares quickly moved their attention to the source of the sound but it quickly died down. Henry noticed the mares looking at him after he had a laughing fit after realising what the results of his understanding of medical science and biology ment. All but Tender Care looked at him nervously then he smiled at her. The flicker of ambition in her eyes was only a small ember compared to the blazing inferno in his own but he continued smiling and then spoke. "I'm sorry I just can't help but admire a fellow determined soul you gleamed a bit of what I know and just like any smart pony you already seek to use it to improve others their lives rather then harming them. It warms my heart to do something familiar again but you should be wary with knowledge. You might have not ment it but you taught me whatever knowledge I hold if it originated can be replicated and worse of all you taught me about how simple it is to replicate. Now even if I might not be the most sound pony of mind I'd be a bad if I told you not to be careful with what It. I want to better ponies their lives and love the enthusiasm, determination and happiness in your eyes Tender but as anypony with power I need to think of others their well being. So please do not experiment with it. I'd rather not see any of the subjects harmed. If permitted I will explain more in detail of what I know I am planning to use my knowledge and it's kind of poetic justice that it comes from either a poison induced dream or delusion or on the other hoof a species of dreamers. Considering I am to use it to undo the harm and make Dartmoor a haven for auntie Luna her Bat ponies and all those who would look out at the world and want to make the stuff of dreams real." Henry said sounding like a inspiring leader. His sincerity causing the first wary then confused and now worried mares in the room to calm and smile. Both Celestia and Luna stepped to Henry with a tender smile and Celestia was the first to speak "You might not be sane of mind but we see you care for our subject Bluey." Celestia said in a kind motherly voice. "Thou said thou believes that corruption is within the domain thou manages and thou said thou cares for our subject Nephew but what would thou do if what thou thinks is true?" Luna asked only to be met with a worrying glance from Henry. "That depends really I care about ponies their well being but I care for others races too. My plan was to use the bond of shares suffering the possible captives have to form a unity and mixing knowledge of those who reside there. As for those who are corrupt it depends what they do if it is slavery and nothing worse I will make their fate depend on their transgression. But without to many words I will handle the situation and try to make the best of it. But I shall not stand idly by which is why I stated if you don't agree to aid me I'd break all ties to royalty not to distance from you but so my actions would not harm you two politically. Since being a member of royalty holds responsibilities and rules one must abide. Before you ask how would one weakened insane seeming pony harm possible slavers or corruption I'd cleanse them in a river of blood and turmoil if I have too. One guilty conscience is worth the prosperity of others and if you wonder if I'd be capable of it you need only glance at the results of Tender Care or maybe ask my two guards to report on how far my mind wanders and observes." Henry said calmly. Spellslinger calmly spoke "Well we could give our full report of the week even before your little incident but you said you didn't want to hear that. ." Spellslinger said but got interrupted by Henry "Yeah no. I'm going through enough. I got too much to do and way to little time." Henry blurted at the idea of sitting through their entire report of Blueblood his actions even from before the incident. Celestia looked at Henry with a disapproving scowl "Still impatient and trying to get out of your work nephew?"She asked disapprovingly. Henry looked at Celestia "No auntie I." Henry quickly noticed he was responding like a little colt and calmly spoke again. "I merely have to prepare no matter what choice you make concerning my situation I'll need to learn and train myself so I do not bother our subjects or my aunties too much. I've got a duty. I know it's hard to understand and I seem like a mad pony but even so I got a duty and lessons of life even if that live might have and me as I am now is a side effect of the attempt at my live. But that doesn't mean the lessons from that life don't apply it made me who I am now." Henry said nervously under Celestia her gaze. I know violence isn't in her nature but that scowl and the intonation of her question shit. She controls the freaking sun and it feels like I've done something I shouldn't like I got caught stealing the entire cookie jar by somepony probably more powerful then multiple nukes Henry thought nervously and partly frightened. Celestia have a soft smile and tenderly asked "Nephew what are those lessons? Why do they make you want to avoid hearing the report?" Celestia said as she softly at Henry who was nervous and wrapped her wing around him to calm him down giving the bat on his back a happy snug place to hide causing it to squeek happily. The wing hug calmed Henry and caused him to smile a tender honest smile"There would be to many to tell but there are two lessons life have thaught me that I'll never forget."Henry said emotionally as he remembered two moments in his life that stuck with him and he let out a few tears "The first story might not seem much to you kindness, tenderness and care is common in Equestria but not where it happened. It was a normal week day. I was head of IT for a company near a grocery store I had just left the building where I worked and outside I saw an elderly lady carrying two heavy bags now this is a normal sight nobody cares much about the well being of a stranger on the street." Henry said reminiscing everypony in the room looked at him in shock. "I myself saw her struggling even if I just came from a rather irritating day of work but before I could over the old lady any help she fell from the weight of her groceries. I quickly rushed closer and asked if she was alright and needed help. She looked at me with surprise and tears in her eyes I helped her up and supported her wobbly legs till she could stand on her own. She was overcome with emotions that she was crying. I simply comforted her and asked her if she needed any help if I she was hurt or if she needed help with her groceries . She was taken aback by this. As I said kindness, compassion and helping eachother is something that is not to common there. The old lady said she wasn't hurt and said she didn't want to bother me that I had done enough but I calmly looked at her and said I had just gotten of work and that I didn't need to be anywhere. And that I couldn't just see her attempt at carrying the rest of the heavy bags on her own. It isn't how I was brought up in that life. My grandmother raised me. I told her that I couldn't in good conscience let her carry those bags so I took her bags which weren't to heavy for me and stood next to the old lady so she could support on me after her previous fall. We walked for a while time towards her home and we talked. She told me she lived alone and her children and grandchildren lived far away and that nopony ever tried to help her. She said she only came out for groceries and was lonely if not for her dog she would have moved to a old people's home." Henry said tears in his eyes. "We arrived at her house it was one of the larger houses in the town of where I worked. She opened the door and I helped put her groceries inside put them where she told me they had to go after I asked and even pet her little dog. After I was done she handed me well let's say bits so you can follow. I refused them and said that just her being alright and the smile and of course petting the sweet little dog was more then enough. She offered me a drink I said it wasn't needed and the old lady said it would make her happy so I reluctantly accepted. I then thought of what she said before living all alone in that house and hardly coming out and felt sorry for her. She came with two beers one for her and me now I normally don't drink alcohol I enjoy it but I only drink it at festivities or special occasion. We talked alot about her live and hobbies. She said she used to be a bartender when she was young and missed socialising. I listened on about her tales and history of the town I worked in and she then pointed at an old large broken radio it had previously gotten my interest and she noticed. She told me it was something she had gotten from her late husband and used to stand in her bar. Now we continued talking and laughing till it became late so I have her a way to contact me since I don't think Equestria has the equivalent of a phone number and said if she ever needed help with her groceries or wanted company she could call. After that we meeted up a lot. We sometimes sat and talked or baked together. After a while we went outside to the bars in the town where I worked. We drank laughed but I was never allowed to pay for myself she always forced the ultimatum of leaving if I dared pay for myself I felt guilty for having her pay. After a while other elderly people and some of my friends joined our little group. We drove or walked around having fun. The elderly people we met while with her became our friends. My younger friends and me were quickly treated like their grandchildren it was something unexpected but oh the wisdom, fun and tales of them and just taking it slow enjoying time with them was the best moments of my weeks. We even drove them to see their children and grandchildren. We were treated as family and the happiness and smiles on their faces I can't describe how much that was worth. It sometimes became a habit to visit the old lady her abode during lunch breaks at work. Still whenever I think back I'm happy that lonely old lady for the joy she brought and to watch her socialize and enjoy life once more it still brings me to tears" Henry said emotionally crying. Everypony in the room looked at him now not with shock but a kind smile. Celestia looked at Henry "Continue Nephew." She said kindly. Henry smiled and nodded. "It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows for that old lady I remember she had to be hospitalised a few months after one of our fun moments in a bar with other elderly people singing songs and talking. She was worried about her dog and her house so I offered to take care of her house and dog. Now I did that but also did more. I remembered her old big wooden radio and the songs she loved. So with some of the other elderly who taught my younger friends and I alot we fixed up her old radio in secret. The old lady her family knew about the suprise for her and decided to drive her home from the hospital. Where the entire gang was waiting and surprised her. It was my idea but we all agreed we had to show that kind old lady just how much she ment to us. When she arrived she was in tears to see us all there. We had prepared her favourite meals for her and as last suprise for her we put on the vinyl record of her favourite song in that radio and the pure joy on her face will always stick with me. I told her about how much she means to us and her response left me embarrassed. She compared me to an angel that God had sent. Now I am not the most religious or saintly person but hearing that from her brought tears to my eyes. And even till this day I think about how it all started how a random uncommon act of kindness brought out that much joy." Henry said in a emotionally strained voice as he dried his eyes. The mares in the room stared at him and smiled and teary eyed. Celestia just looked at Henry "I can see why she called you that. When you were a small colt you used to be called a little angel. I understand why you don't want to hear of your actions before the incident." Celestia said with a smile drying some of her own tears while making the wing hug more snugger and the other mares stepped closer looking as they dried their tears. Even if it's just insanity induced by the poison his mind lived an other live. I hope he will be able to adapt. The only good thing is that the lessons he learned but he is scared that the memories of his foalhood which according to him have manifested in a split personality will make him lose himself more. I'll need to ask Luna to help him calm his mind and if it truly is possession holding the shambles of what was my nephew intact then I will have to help him. Either what has happened to him he needs help. Celestia thought as she kept wing hugging Henry. Henry just looked at Celestia "That I used to have that nickname here is just a coincidence. Still thank you for understanding. Sorry thinking I left them behind if it was real is well a sad thought. But it's out of my control. All I can do is prepare and ensure that the land I manage flourishes so if I regress into the mental state of a foal that He won't have to deal with the troubles caused by the our previous mistakes." Henry said sounding tired and worried but then sighs. "Which is why I must deal with the current situation at hoof. I'd rather have time to loiter and laugh or play with the animals or enjoy the company of others but I can't do that in good conscience. Now that I told you why can auntie Lulu maybe effect my dreams to include books on magic since if you agree with allowing me to weed out the seeds of corruption I think are in my domain I would leave at early light." Henry said calmly. Maybe calling her Lulu was to much. I hope she isn't angry. Henry thought Celestia stopped the wing hug causing the bat that was enjoying being in-between Henry his back and the warm wing of Celestia to squeek in protest. While Luna looked embarrassed at the nickname only causing Celestia to snicker a bit before Luna regained composure. "So thou aren't planning to let this go nephew? Luna asked worryingly. Henry just raised his head and looked Luna straight in her eyes "Sorry I'm as a stubborn as a mule " He said jokingly Spellslinger and Midnight snickered at Henry his comment. "Your highness you said there were two lessons you took heart can we hear the other one?" Tender asked expectantly if not to make a psychological profile of Henry then to wonder what more wisdoms he could impart. "I'm sorry Tender I can't thinking to much about it hurts. Either it was all in my mind or I got plucked away from my world, family and friends. I rather not put myself through such torture." Henry replied causing Tender her ears to droop and her expression to turn apologetically. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked that. Most stallion's would already be breaking down. But you act so openly about it." Tender said. "That doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. I talk about it because I don't want to leave you in the dark. It's hard to speak about it believe me. But I trust you and hope you don't speak of it to anypony. And please promise me something if I seem to become a danger to others or worse. I want you to ensure I do not harm anypony and that you do whatever it takes if it comes to it. I'm in a semi right mind now but if I'm not later I'll need a fail safe." Henry replied seriously. Both Celestia and Luna seemed to understand why somepony would ask such a promise. Even if it isn't an easy thing to follow. The mares in the room looked at eachother then at Henry and nodded. And mimicked the motions of a Pinkie promise. Meanwhile in Ponyville Bakery Pinkie was first jolly giving Derpy some muffins for on the road. When her Body went wonky because of her Pinkie sense and she had a big smile as he handed Derpy her muffins and bounced back into the kitchen of the bakery. Back in Canterlot Castle. Henry smiled at the mares "Thank you. You don't know how much you making a Pinkie promise puts me at ease. Now I better get to training and preparing." Henry said as he trotted towards the door. Luna quickly trotted towards him "Nephew we haven't given thou an answer why would thou go prepare? And why art thou so driven to do this?" Luna asked as she stopped Infront of the exit of the room blocking Henry his way. Henry calmly smiled "I told you already no matter what you decide I have to ensure the best for the ponies under my responsibility even if my mind might get affected. It's literally stamped on my flank. You might not understand but a cutie mark can have multiple meanings. And mine can be interpreted as many things. Where my current personality came from it can symbolise a lot like guidance, orientation, independence, Safety , protection, traveling since it's a compass star and the word com the Latin word meaning togheter and passus meaning journeying togheter not just in the literal meaning of journeys but paths in life and choices we make but that isn't the most important meanings it holds. The most important meanings it holds are Luck motivation and inspiration. Luck for it will guide a lost creature to where it needs to be. Motivation because it helps one move and show you and others the way to keep going and last but not least inspiration for it always A compass shows the path north which symbolises progress and innovation. Or did you think the saying things going south when things go bad was but a way of words auntie." Henry said with a smile. Luna was shocked by the words Henry used but she remembered the symbolism of a compass but then Celestia spoke interrupted in a kind voice. "Those are the meaning of a compass but a the compass star has other meanings aswell nephew." Celestia said with a kind knowing smile. "Sister art thou accepting his behaviour?" Luna replied "I don't sister I would prefer our nephew would be kept under guard and not act so foalish and stubborn but he has made his points. Even if we try to stop him I fear he might just escape and do what he desires anyway" Celestia replied giving a knowing glance at Henry. "Auntie Tia is right. I would attempt to escape." Henry said rubbing his head causing Philomena to fly to Celestia while the little Bat still remains relaxing on Henry his back. Luna just stared at Henry "But thou art not well. Thou should see this is foalish." Luna said sounding like a stern mother. Henry just laughs "As I said I'm stubborn. And well what happens happens. I'm far from a perfect role model and if I do regress into a foal or my mind alters further I do hope some of my less favourable traits won't end up remaining. I might be kind to many but I can be a rather big risk when angry which is why your promise from before means a lot to me." Henry said and then he glanced at Tender care "Tender while Midnight and Spellslinger give their report could you stay with me I know you aren't a soldier or guard but It would be better to have somepony keep an eye on me whilst I am going to ramp up the training to regain my strength and having a medical professional nearby would be best. Considering no matter what they decide the training will happen." Henry said before trying to leave the room but Celestia asked a question that caught him off guard. "Bluey why are you so driven even if you hold some knowledge or are a mixture of my nephew and what creature got pulled from his home. Why are you so driven and what do you plan to accomplish?" Celestia asked kindly sounding like a tender mother watching over a child giving a knowing undertone of worrying care for the wellbeing of said child. "I'm so driven because of the what there is to learn and to teach others. Sure I want to build Dartmoor into a revolutionary power house but it's not just for myself as I stated before I love to see the spark of passion in the eyes of others. So I am driven for if I do what I can with the knowledge and limited understanding of the few things I have. I can spark a flame of cooperation and innovation which first will be a used to burn out the roots of corruption and seed the desire to learn and dream. To see how things work to advance and learn. It's a normal instinct for what I was during the poison induced state. For they are a species of dreamers sure they can make what you probably would see as miracles happen without magic but they could also bring the stuff of nightmares." As Henry said this everypony but Celestia flinched. "My goal is to use the knowledge and also look at the knowledge of the past and magic. I want to make Dartmoor and it's residents embody dreaming, creativity and ingenuity. I think it's kind of poetic and I wish to use magic it's flexibility and all other races who would make it their home to create a golden age of innovation, cooperation and harmony. We need only look at the past at the tale of the friendship fire to see what wonders can be created using cooperation. And if I truly am possessing or co inhabiting your nephews body causing the personality you see before you what better place to make then a place where dreams , innovation and cooperation is the centre of it all. Even if my knowledge fades or my personality would be affected much more it would lay the bedrock for a safe haven and the possibility to undo what has been done even partly and even if that doesn't happen the lessons I hold if I were to fade could be taught to the foal I hear within my mind so he might learn and grow into a wise stallion. In any of those cases if you help me or not Dartmoor it's revitalisation is key. And when a stable income is created to continue to fuel the fire of cooperation and innovation then I will no longer need to hoard my knowledge like a dragon does with it's treasure. And it would be up to those who come after me to do with as they must. Through innovation comes prosperity and through abundance and prosperity comes luxury. Enabling others to be lifted up to follow their own talents in more ambitious approaches which will if build on cooperation and friendship would make improvements bettering others their lives beyond even your wildest dreams and when they look back to how it all started they won't look at me their ambitions and new way to view the world will make them run off and continue onwards. Of course I'll teach them what I can warn them of certain dangers as I did with Tender Care but when a kid sees a rainy puddle only a blind mother would pull the foal away for not jumping in it. For the spark of curiosity dims everytime it's denied. And a mistake many make is denying others that exploration and the ability to learn on their own. It is better to let them learn from their actions and mistakes so that spark of curiosity remains for a quote I hold to heart says What is a scientist if not a adult who hasn't lost his childish curiosity. And it's true in so many ways for those who still carry that spark of curiosity are the movers and shakers of the world by the knowledge they uncover and share with others." Henry said calmly while smiling. Celestia also had a pleasant smile on her face as she is a teacher and leader to many she recognised the truths behind Henry his words. The other mares in the room just looked in shock once more it started to strangely become natural to Henry causing Celestia and him to laugh. "Nephew I might not know what happened to your mind but you aren't in a wrong mind. I see you aren't acting foalish but thinking far ahead like your ancestors dreaming for the betterment of everypony it does make me wonder were you a teacher in the state the poison caused?" Celestia asked with a hopeful smile. "Not really. I did help others with little things and enjoyed helping kids with fun little projects during my down time but no I wasn't but I always shared my interests with others and some might call me that but I've learned more from others then I have taught. But life is like that an endless wave of lesson's past even the days of youth. But I really got to go now I need to use the time I have since depending on your decision I still must ensure I can do what I have to do. Come along Tender Care I'm going to put myself through rigorous strain during my training so it would be best if you were near incase of an accident." Henry said before leaving the room quickly followed by Tender Care leaving both the Princesses and guards to discuss their report on Blueblood for that week even before the poison incident and afterwards. > Chapter 6 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Within the Canterlot Castle hallway. Both Tender Care and Henry were trotting through the hallway. Tender was still thinking of all the possibilities that came with Henry his knowledge then she remembered She wasn't brought along to prod his mind. Henry quickly coughs to get the attention of the temporary distracted mare. "Do you think you could bring me to a place within the castle where I can. Well let's just say rehabilitate under your supervision without the possibility of being interrupted since I think it would be best for both of us. I know you probably have a lot of questions and want to prod at my mind but as a healer of the sick and someone who tends to wounds you already know how to hurt aswell. For its those who know how things work that are the best at tearing it apart or notice if something is wrong." Henry said while trotting next to Tender Care. Tender Care suddenly looked in shock at Henry his statement she never thought of using what she knew to hurt somepony else but then it dawned on her that even with knowledge she had before reading his scrolls she could easily harm others and she quivered at the thought and wondered why somepony especially a stallion would have such a mindset. "We can maybe head to one of the ballrooms or other mostly unused rooms within the Night wing of the Castle. Princess Luna hardly uses them and most Thestrals and night guards only come out at Night. But if I can ask why a pony think of such terrible things like how to hurt somepony else?" Tender care asked nervously while leading Henry towards the Night wing of the Castle where he pasted a familiar door the same door he saw in the saddened suppressed memory he relived from Bluey. Henry calmly looked at the door and felt sadness rise within him but he but on a calm expression. "Tender there is something you must know. I plan ahead, I worry and think of multiple angles to deal with a issue. My current mental state is violent even if it doesn't seem like it. Now I care about ponies alot and about others but as the head physician you must know my mental state isn't like that of a harmonious little Herbivore like it should be. Even less then what I think is the norm for stallion here considering what your earlier statement's. Especially not like how I was before the well let's just call it an incident." Henry said following Tender care into a large dark themed ball room with stars on its ceiling and slightly dusty ground. "I've noticed you don't act like a normal stallion I'm a doctor I know how a healthy pony should act. You're mindset is more like that of a omnivore like a Thestral but with a undertone of a books description of a general changeling manipulative and calculating. I don't want to imagine what would cause such a mindset." Tender replied as she closed the door behind Henry. "Oh right you don't see changelings alot yet they mostly keep to the badlands or hide in pony disguises during this time. But i don't think you have a fitting description. But cunning seriously all I did was give my aunties an ultimatum. But I guess the gender ratio in Equestria can explain why my actions seem unbefitting or uncommon for my gender. Coming from a relatively 1:1 ratio mindset of genders and males being more let's just say self destructive. It makes sense I might seem to act strange. And I might be planning something similarly self destructive but on a specific scale abusing medical knowledge to enforce muscle growth" Henry replied smiling as he remembers some dumb shit he and his friends did some times. "Wait what?!" Tender Care let out in confusion. Henry calmly waved his hoof in what he hoped was a calming gesture since pony body language is something he might have to learn as well as non verbal communication. "Don't worry I'm planning on listening to your medical expertise to stop when necessary. I'm only planning to use magic to put more strain on my muscle and vice versa on my magic pitting both against eachother while forcefully enticing muscle fibers to tear and repair. Basically enforcing biological muscle growth or stimulating it. Which is why I need your surveillance." Henry said in a calming tone. I hope I'm not making it worse. Why did she get so worried. I mean I'm pretty sure our previous talk when I woke up ensured me the logic behind gaining muscle mass and strength was the same. Henry thought utterly confused about Tender Care her response. "Not that the part about The changelings and about the gender ratio you're used to. Not to even mention the self endangerment. Not to mention how you seem to think how to see how something can be used to hurt somepony and your psychoanalysis of our gender ratio. It is really troubling. Maybe you better need some readjustment and psychological help to adjust because and I don't mean any offense but your mind seems bucked up!" Tender replied looking worried. "I dont disagree with you but it will have to wait." As Henry said this he got a angry gaze from Tender Care that made him remember of the gazes his mother would give him if he'd disagree with her. "Now wait you need to understand that I don't know better. Ponies and well Homo sapiens are entirely different. You've already seen what a bit of our knowledge can do. You've actually proven to me that something's remained the same so listen carefully." Henry said trying to make Tender stop the motherly scowl. "You better start explaining you're reasoning and no holding back information. If those homo thingies you think you were one of are so different and your mentality is normal then you should explain why I don't go to the princesses with your royal plot tied up." Tender said looking at Henry judging him. Meanwhile with the Princesses. Midnight and Spellslinger finished their report about Blueblood his activities. Celestia worryingly questioned "And our nephew had a predatory smile and grin when he explained his dealings with opposition." Luna turned to Celestia "Sister it seems that our nephew comes after his ancestors in cunning but Thou art right to worry. Our nephew has shown knowledge of frightening proportions but according to report he also showed restraint and wishes it not to fall in the wrong hooves. Him making us promise to act against him if needed is a sign of clarity."Luna said calmly. Celestia turned to Luna "While that is true I fear for his wellbeing. He doesn't seem distraught or confused which makes me only worry more. I've only seen glimpses of normal behaviour during our prank on the guards or when he was within the garden amongst the animals. I think it's too early for Blueblood to be doing anything and I'm uncertain. He truly believes it's possible his mind isn't that of a pony but why would he then focus on his duties." Celestia said pondering. Luna laughed "The modern times and peace have made thou lose thine edge sister. It is clear he has recognised something which caused him to take action even if it isn't in our nephews own best interest. And if thou would be lost sister and thou hast knowledge others do not but do not have the means to use it what would thou do?" Luna asked with a smile. Celestia looked at Luna as realisation hit her "Sister you are right but wouldn't somepony in such a situation break down especially a stallion." Spellslinger interrupted "Normally yes but he can't be considered a normal stallion. Normal stallion's don't pull a advanced knowledge of medical knowledge out of their flank. Sorry for interrupting Princesses." Spellslinger said embarrassed before bowing in apology. Celestia just smiled and turned to Spellslinger and midnight"Both of you have been around him longer since the incident what do you two think is the best course of action? I would rather have my nephew under close watch and rehabilitating considering his strange behaviour." Midnight laughed at the question drawing the attention of everypony in the room "My apologies Princesses but you are acting as if you could keep Blueblood contained or affect his plans too much. He had the expression of a predator before and he thinks like one. He told you his plans and left a way to continue to stay close and wishes to attain something with restoring Dartmoor and making it grow but I don't think that is his only plan. I mean seriously how he calmly planed on the spot before he knew of Dartmoor situation is terrifying and shows he isn't somepony that follows reason. Add ontop of that he gained unknown knowledge that he tries to apply to magic combine that with his stubbornness and his predatory way of thinking with a analytical mind. And you have one pony who would turn everything he can into a way to achieve his goals." Midnight calmly said as he stretched her wings " Doesn't mean I'll go easy on his royal plot he order us to keep him from slacking and drill him so I will." Midnight said laughing. "It's true but you're making him sound like a Tartarian demon. He is still kind and a confused stallion." Spellslinger said glaring at Midnight. "Kind yes confused probably but he isn't a wallflower stallion from the look and planning he has. And don't forget he have us both the order to keep him in line and drill his plot. I know you'd prefer the kind gentle noble side that showed when he healed the cook or talked about how he enjoys inspiring others or that poison induced memory where he was a gentlestallion. I've worked beside you for long enough that I know what type of colts you like. And how he made you blush like a tomato with honeyed and sweet words." Midnight said teasingly. Spellslinger just blushed before stuttering a response "Like you are one to talk I know you like ordering him around but in the end you like a dominant and strong stallion" Spellslinger retorted causing Midnight to stick out her tongue. Luna and Celestia just laughed at the two guard ponies who previously disliked their station and couldn't wait to get away from their nephew now teasing eachother but the results of the reports give the Princesses a lot to think about. Celestia quickly spoke as she tried to get the attention of the now distracted guard mares. "I didn't expect our nephew to become a heart stealer again. But I expect both of you to be professional. As for your input I think my sister and I both agree our nephew should be given the support he desires for his plan. If not to ensure the safety of the ponies in the lands he mismanaged then to keep him close to us for his safety and the safety of other ponies so when he becomes a danger to himself or anypony else we can act." Celestia said with a kind smile. "We agree sister but our guard standards must have dropped significantly if they act like school fillies during their first estrous." Luna said smiling gaining a bit of enjoyment into teaching both guard mares. Both Spellslinger and Midnight blushed at the comments of the Princesses. "Oh dear Luna I should tell you about our nephews younger years before he became such a spoiled noble just to prepare you slightly for what might come." Celestia said with a big smile on her face as she reminisced about better days. "Thou shall have to. Now guards you are dismissed you can continue your normal assignment." Luna said with a smile. Both Spellslinger and Midnight saluted before leaving the princesses still slightly embarrassed that Luna teased them. Back at Henry and Tender Care. Henry calmly breathed in then looked at Tender Care who stared at him expecting an answer. "Fine but you probably won't believe so. Homo sapiens are an omnivore species the dominant species on their planet earth or scientifically named Sol 3. They have no magic or none that I am aware of lots of myths and tales which include some species that live in Equis. Now as I stated before not the most harmonious bunch. But I'll give you the short version. Only sentient species on the planet. Our history is littered with much conflict and bloodshed but after each period of violence there was also a period of healing. Our harsh rise to power on our world through history has made us a rather strange mix of diplomatic and chaotic species. Equestria is technologically behind on so many fields as you probably noticed thanks to my notes given to you." Henry said nervously. Tender Care looked at Henry with disbelief "If you had no magic then how could live exist there. How could myths about magical creatures exist you're making it hard for me to believe you. Not to mention that the species you believe you were sounds like a type of chaotic species with a lot of demon like traits. But the notes did work from my perspective you are a colt driven insane by knowledge they accidentally gained. You can understand why right? I mean an entire world without magic thats impossible even magic dead zones have small amounts of magic." Tender said looking at Henry "Yes and honestly I don't know why we have myths of magic. Then again our history hardly makes sense to us at times. But even if I'm just insane or not I still have a duty. Because of those memories I can recognise the signs off corruption easily. But that isn't the only reason I want to go help Dartmoor it's a motivator a very strong one since I can't stand slavery and corruption but it is Also is a selfish desire. I know my normal behaviour before the incident was a sad excuse of a noble. Honestly I'm disgusted by it to my very core but to the point. If I can restore Dartmoor and use my knowledge to aid ponies I can make bits make the economy grow there. Attract talented ponies help them fill in the blanks that I don't fully grasp myself and create a place where dreams come true. Where knowledge is attained but to my more selfish reason. A way to both clear my tarnished name a little while also ensuring the possibility if I am not crazy or insane to have the talented ponies and resources to attempt to get home while tipping the economic and political power away from other nobles. I know you probably still think I'm insane so here is an example of things I know that I shouldn't by any logical means. Auntie Luna probably is worrying auntie Celestia for being slightly exhausted and seeming mentally and magically more exhausted then she should after dream walking even if right now. She probably asked you to keep your eyes on auntie Luna her well being after the hole Nightmare Moon incident but you wrote it off as adjustment period since everything seems normal." Henry calmly said but as he utters his last sentence Tender looks at him in shock and slight fear. "How do you know that. And you said I wrote it off as something. Is it bad? You have to help if it's something important." Tender Care said in shock. He shouldn't know about that I keep my patients information or familial request personal. And he wasn't even there. Princess Celestia even asked me to talk to nopony about it. There is no way be should know. Tender care thought nervously. "You don't need to worry. Yes auntie Luna has a issue that will attempt to run out of control but with the help of others it will be handled it sadly will stem of her guilt and be something she created to punish herself which will run out of control but that is still a long time in the future. But I'll be blunt if the winds of fate blow different I will act but there are some events that must come to pass. I do not know everything only little pieces and I don't even know the dates. But as a physician you should know that some things must go their course for things to get better. As being sick once can teach the body to be immune to things later so do some unpleasant events in the future hold lessons that will save Equestria." Henry said looking at Tender Care.Well if the episode dream of magic sheep is anything to go off still Luna shouldn't punish herself so much Henry thought. If auntie Luna is sad and you know it why don't you help? I've seen what you wrote down for Tender Care so can you help auntie Luna? The little colt voice echoed in Henry his head. I wish I could kiddo. Honestly I wish I could and even with the possible unlimited creative ways I can utilise magic. I can't help everypony. Atleast not yet who knows I'll ever be able kid I am already using your kind their vocal quirks and terms. And I have to prepare for the worst possible situation where I fade like a breath on a mirror. It's best to prepare for the worst instead of getting your hopes up. Henry thought while his expression turned defeated and his ears turned backwards in sadness both thinking of the possibility of him fading. Tender first continued looking in shock at Henry his saddened expression "Must be really hard then isn't it. Not being sure if you're sane or not and even knowing things you shouldn't. I'd expect you to be a broken mess under the weight of it all. You're previous mindset would have already went whining to the Princesses." Tender said jokingly as she have Henry a comforting hug. Henry hugged Tender Care back "Yeah but I know that self pity or breaking down about my situation wouldn't help anypony. So I trot onwards my best hoof forwards. If that even is a saying here. Doing what I can for as long as I can. Now can you please cast a diagnosis spell on me so I can start training. I've wasted enough time and my mind wondered to some places that won't help anyway." Henry said as he broke the hug. Tender care broke the hug and nodded at Henry as she cast a simple diagnosis spell on him. "Blueblood..." Tender said softly as she was trying to think of something to say to show comfort to the Stallion that previously made her feel so ecstatic from the notes. Henry just took another of the potion's ment to aid with his recovery. Not sure how he can pull it out from behind his flank but after drinking two of them he closed his eyes and focused on his telekenetic magic on himself as he felt the familiar unpleasant warm sensation fill his body quicker then before as his magic touched the very muscle and lot of fat his body had thanks to the previous luxurious lifestyle and put extra strain on his muscle using his magic pitting both forces against eachother while concentrating on the logic behind muscle formation and repair as he started training. The extra strain and higher dosage of the potion making him quickly feel like he was in a scorching desert sun. "It's alright Tender. I understand." Henry winced. As he felt as if his veins and muscles were on fire while a headache creeped up. Seems like the potions are doing their work but it's getting to rough ugh. Wait if telekenises can cause focused strain and guide cell repair maybe it can lower the vibrations of the atoms that make up the air As Henry thought little area around his body his magic touched seemed to cool exponentially making the heat burning fire sensation of his muscles and veins deteriorate to a uncomfortable desert heat while his headache got worse but he willed his way through it. Tender Care looked worried as she noticed not only the change in temperature but the rapid changes going on with Henry according to spell she cast to diagnose any changes. What she the spell told her couldn't be normal. Massive damage and repair to muscle mass in rapid succession and magical reserve growth at an alarming rate. This can't be the spell must be having interference of whatever Blueblood is doing. Those changes and strain would leave anypony in agony or fatigued especially with the double dosis of the potion He took. Spellslinger thought worryingly as she noticed the discomfort and pain on Henry's nuzzle. Spellslinger watched Henry train for a long while trotting and channeling magic while his expression got more stiff and pained. "Are you alright your highness?" Spellslinger asked in a shaking tone that made her worry easily recognisable as her ears drooped backwards. But then the room temperature dropped rapidly because of Henry. "I felt like I was on fire now I got a flipping headache and feel like I'm in a freaking desert while I can see ice begining to form on the floor around me so yeah I'm freaking peachy." Henry grunted sarcastically as he looked at her. "Sorry it's a pain and I honestly dislike pain I shouldn't be an ass about this but it's uncomfortable to say the least." Henry quickly said hoping he didn't offend Tender before. I shouldn't act like an ass to her it was my idea to do this. he thought as he cursed at himself for having let his temper get the better of him like that. "It's alright your highness. I thought you'd see it as worse then uncomfortable. But I think whatever you are doing is interrupting with my diagnosis spell. Not to mention how you can even effect the temperature in the room. You previously never saw any interest in spells that would do so." Tender replied confused at what was going on. This growth of muscle mass and magical power is to abnormal to be real. Wait is his fat reseeding like the spell says. Tender care thought as she noticed the body fat Henry had from Blueblood his luxurious lifestyle started to melt away quickly before muscle mass replaced it quite quickly as she noticed the flanks once slightly coated with fat from the luxuriously lifestyle Blueblood lead was melting away and slowly replaced with strong firm muscles. Tender care looked utterly confused at what was happening. "How? What?" She muttered in confusion looking at the strained expression on Henry his face.. Then she noticed Henry his eyes glow white Henry had a magical outburst during his excersise. The room grow ice cold in the outburst and Henry fell down flat as the magical outburst also effected the muscles he was straining and forcibly repairing with magic. "I .. am not doing that again anytime soon." Henry said meekly as he got overwhelmed by his headache and aching muscles.This bucking sucks. Henry thought as he layed on the ground exhausted panting and sweating. Tender Care just looked at him confused shivering from the cold that filled the room. Having cold hooves as a thin lair of ice covered the floor and she could see her breath. "How did you turn it cold? How did you grow your muscles mass and how aren't you a broken tired mess?" Tender asked Henry as she stared in utter confusion as the results of her diagnosis spell replied his muscle mass was even above the normal guard ponies their strength including the mares not taking earth ponies in account. And his magical strength was now that of a normal adult unicorn instead of his previous weak foalish state. Which was even above his previous lacking state as a spoiled noble pony living in the lap of luxury. Sweet Celestia! What has Blueblood done this makes no sense!. Tender thought. "Can you keep it down. My head hurts, my muscles ache and I feel thirsty and sweaty all over." Henry replied softly. "Oh sorry you're highness but I will still need answers. I'll help you up and don't be afraid to lean on me" Tender replied as she helped Henry up. Henry got up and leaned on Tender "Thank you Tender, sorry for being a hoof full" He said softly but then his white fur turned a shade of green. "Uhm we may need to trot towards the little stallions room." Henry said as he started to feel nauseous and had the urge to puke. Tender Care noticed the shade of green growing darker and teleported them one of the bathrooms of the medical wing. Henry rushed to towards the toilet and quickly threw up. "Damn... I don't feel so good..." Henry said between puking and held on to the toilet not even pondering how hooves can hold on to things. Tender Care left the poor stallion to look for some potion to help with a troubled stomach but she quickly got interrupted by Spellslinger and Midnight coming in the medical wing. Spellslinger quickly trotted to Tender "Aah Tender there you are do you know where Blueblood is?" Spellslinger asked but only got Tender care her pointing to the bathroom door where the smell of puke and sweat combined with disgusting tormented sounds came from. Spellslinger sighed "What did he do this time." Midnight looked nervous "Wow It smells like the our first combined drill with the solar guards in there." Midnight replied recalling some solar guard recruits wanting to attempt to follow the night guards their more sterner training causing many to overwork themselves and puke. Tender Care smiled nervously at Midnight and Spellslinger as she held a potion. Then focused on her diagnosis spell that was still active. "Oh you're right I thought the poison or the double dosage of the potion to help him regain his strength was to blame." Tender Care said before she quickly wrote a scroll and send it to the Castle Staff to prepare Henry a fruit smoothie. Midnight looked confused "Wait! In the hour and a half we weren't around Blueblood pushed him to far in training. I'm not sure if I should worry about his condition or his resolve to put himself through something like that." Midnight said slightly laughing. Spellslinger have a stern gaze at Midnight"That isn't very nice Midnight. The poor stallion was poisoned and is still weak." Spellslinger said disapprovingly. Tender Care interrupted "Well not weak anymore he actually went beyond regaining his strength from before the poisoning. He kept pushing himself so far I thought my diagnosis spell was being interfered with by what he was pulling. He still didn't explain what he did though." Tender replied. Midnight laughed "Oh come on it can be that much of a change." Midnight replied jokingly. While the mares were discussing amongst themselves Henry finally got done puking and cleaned his face quite clumsily and stepped out of the bathroom and went towards the three mares. Who quickly smelled his sweat and the slight odour coming from his mouth. "You know I could hear you three in their damn headache makes me to sensitive to sounds." Henry said as he stared at the mares. Spellslinger just looked at Henry with a disapproving gaze and asked in a disappointed tone "Blueblood what did you do this time? And don't forget we got your aunties and even your permission to keep you in check. So don't leave anything out." Henry winced since previously only Midnight used to be hard on him.I must have really done something stupid if Spellslinger is being like this. Why does it feel worse if a cute pony is disappointed or disapproving. Henry thought. Midnight looked compassionate at Henry" Sorry Bluey but you better just tell Spellslinger. She isn't pleasant to be around when he is like this." Midnight said apologetically before glancing at Spellslinger and then nervously looking away. Henry looked worried at Midnight. Wait did she just call me Bluey and what does she me Spellslinger isn't pleasant to be around. Henry thought worryingly. "Blueblood! I'm waiting." Spellslinger said sounding like a stern teacher as her eyes bore into Henry making a chill crawl up his spine. "Alright ... alright. I uhm took two of those potions that help with muscle and magical strength regrowth and I sorta used magic to put extra strain on my muscles and then thought of the process that normally repairs it that results in the growth of muscle mass and strength. But I.... The potion was making me feel like my blood was going to boil so I manipulated the air around me using telekenetic magic. Since temperature is just vibrations intensity of particles so I might have used that to attempt to make the vibrations slow down making it colder. But I already had a headache of using magic but I forced my way through it and trained for a while I don't know I lost track of time. Then I had a little accident I felt a surge of energy coming from within me and shoot out of my horn affecting my spells which broke my concentration, resolve and strength. I couldn't force myself through on will alone and I well fell down and got brought here by Tender since I didn't feel to well." Henry said sheepishly looking as he nervously drew a circle with his right hoof while his ears were flopped completely down. I'm bucked. I'm freaking bucked Henry thought worryingly. Spellslinger just stared at Henry still with a stern expression. "I don't even understand how you affected the temperature in the room but self altering magic is dangerous. Not to mention you said you only knew telekenises and your strange healing through your strange methods. So explain Blueblood and tell me why you tried something so dangerous and foolish." Spellslinger said sounding more worried then disappointed or stern. Blueblood could have killed himself with his stupid stunt. Didn't he think about the possible things that could go wrong. Permanent damage to certain muscles, Uuforseen side effects. Why is he even doing all of it. It's not like he will need any physical strength. Spellslinger pondered. Tender Care beamed at the idea of hearing the principles behind Henry his alterations. Henry looked at Spellslinger who just stared at him a stern and worried expression on her nuzzle. He looked towards Midnight who have the facial expression equivalent of "I am not going to meddle in this". His gaze fell on Tender Care and noticed her interested expression beaming to want to know what was behind how he trained. Henry calmly sighed and looked at Spellslinger straightening himself up which caught her off guard. "I used telekenises magic on my body to ensure extra strain on my muscles while also thinking of the normal process of muscle growth. I rather not turn this into a lecture and it is normal conditions are explained in the scrolls I wrote for Tender. I thought of process and how it normally goes when someone is sleeping after heavy workouts. I combined that method with the dual dosage of the potion ment to help regain magical and physical strength. Pitting both my magic and muscles against eachother in my weakened state seemed logical. But when the side effects of the potion being an unpleasant desert like heat to tormenting heat that feels like my blood was going to boil came up. I had to cool myself off. I fought through the headache and muscle ache. So to I wondered if telekenises is able to affect smaller objects like atoms and particles or atleast their vibrations. Which is the basis of well temperature. But don't ask me how it works in detail. I don't know everything in detail." Henry said trying to put on a strong front but his exhaustion was making him more emotional. "But why? Why do something like that to yourself? Don't you know the risks that such use of magic has?" Spellslinger asked her stern expression completely faded replaced with a sad teary eyed expression wonder why anypony would do such dangerous self torturing methods of training. "I do know the risks I take. I'm inexperienced in magic. I only applied to context of things I understand and use will and concentration to execute it. And it's terrifying what it can do. But to answer why it's quite simple. I'm preparing. I can not risk the possibility of my aunties not agreeing to aid me with my plan surrounding Dartmoor revitalisation to threaten the lives of others. Nor can I just sit idly and do nothing if they agree to help me. For I know what turmoil and corruption breeds all to well. And Equestria might be peaceful and harmonious. But I know the alternatives. Not just from my own poison induced experience. And I know how to manipulate, play somepony like a fiddle and how corruption spreads. The creature I was in my poison induced dream had a lot of history and knowledge with tactics I can use. As to the manipulation of others it's something I despise with a passion because of past application within the poison Induced state. But when it comes to those tactics and methods I know how far I can go and how just the right application can make somepony their lives to fall apart or be enriched as I said before that second lesson isn't something I want to discuss with anypony." Henry said calmly. Spellslinger was left speechless looking at Henry in shock. "You said you know how to break somepony their life apart. Are you speaking of experience?" Midnight asked worryingly. This woke Spellslinger from her shock causing her to look at Henry wearily. Henry nodded"I've made mistakes in that poison induced experience. Intellect plus emotions don't always mix well. In the poison induced experience, I had a friend young colt we were both in school. My friend had an affliction brittle bone syndrome. Now I mostly got along with everypony quiet reserved but not everypony was nice to my friend. Let's just say to but it bluntly another older colt picked on him and my friend knowing me knew I am a hot head. Well the colt that picked on my friend one day beat him this was the first and last time. My friend his bones were weak and easily broke as I stated brittle bones. I sadly arrived to late to prevent that friend from getting hurt. So being the overprotective hothead I was I beat that idiot into submission caused a few to be wary of me since the kind silent types are the last you expect to lose their well cool. But I was still angry my friend had to go to the hospital. Now as I said intelligence and emotions don't always mix well. I don't know how to precisely describe what I did to make you two understand the situation but I can tell you the results of my actions. The parents of the one who harmed my friend split up. His father lost his job and he himself had to change school's. I look back and regret my actions that lead to it but I afterwards mostly used my knowledge to help and enrich others lives." Henry said somberly. I'm not going more into this. But if they only knew how frail someone's life can be. I don't think I could even start explaining technology, Rootkits and voice recordings. Still I shouldn't have gone as far as to ruin someone's lively hood and relationship out of anger. Information and technology can both break and make lives. Henry reminisced looking back in shame. Midnight and Spellslinger looked in shock and noticed the regret on Henry his expression. "How could a young colt do so much damage?" Spellslinger asked. "Same like Midnight was probably planning with me find some secrets or dirt on somepony. Except with me I turned their means of communication and alot of their home appliances which have no Equestrian alternative into my eyes and ears. Reading their scrolls , hearing and storing their verbal communication. Which included drunk rambling with their friends and things said behind closed doors. And turned it against them. It took a while but I was precise and patient. I regret it but it did make me sober up and excersise some control on my actions." Henry said looking down in shame Spellslinger looked confused at Henry "How does one store sound?" She asked. "Of all you could take out of this you ask that. You know what nope not going to explain it ask Tender Care if she read the notes in detail she should know. I really need to lay down." Henry said as he trotted to a bed in the medical wing and layed down letting his exhausted body rest as he tried to ignore the mild headache. Midnight just laughed at the irony that Henry just like her would gather information on somepony for their own means. Spellslinger looked at Midnight. "Whats so funny?" Spellslinger asked confused. Midnight laughed and then spoke. "It's funny that Blueblood in his poison Induced state had similar thought's on how to deal with somepony. Oh the irony" Spellslinger looked embarrassed since she also looked into Blueblood his notes and spied on him mostly to keep him out of trouble but she still did spy on somepony. "Still Tender Care did something in Blueblood his notes cover sound? I still don't understand how noises could be copied like words a quil." Tender Care just looked at Spellslinger "Well sound is vibrating air that vibrating air goes within our ears to a sensory organ thus letting us hear sound. But don't ask me how somepony would get a recorder on the go. Or how somepony would carry enough vinyl records to do so." Henry laughed "Right right you lot have vinyl records I completely forgot. It's a more primitive method of storing vibrations in the air but it's a nice novelty. Still how you can have hot air balloons vinyl records and DJ equipment but not have other basic understandings of fundamental concepts is bewildering. You probably relied on magic a lot." Henry stated Spellslinger looked confused "how would somepony else power a spell matrix to do certain tasks? Steam power can't be concentrated that much." Henry now looked confused "Spell matrix and steam power which is large and bulky. Oh sweet Celestia. You know what It can wait." Suddenly a maid trotted into the medical wing with a vegetable and fruit smoothie. "Did one of the guards train to hard again." The maid said jokingly as she trotted in. Henry just laughs "No guard. Just pushed myself to hard during rehabilitation after my incident of a few two days ago." Henry said nonchalantly. The maid looked confused but then laughed nervously as one of her colleagues talked about Henry his more kind and calmer attitude within the gardens but she didn't believe it her self"Oh sorry Blueblood I didn't mean to offend you, your highness." She said nervously. Henry just smiled "it's alright, considering your response I must have been a real hoof full to deal with. I think it's also why Tender Care and my guards are quite adamant about my education and training since the incident. Maybe a form of petty revenge or desire that I become more then I was but the training was quite enjoyable" Henry lied as he have a smile to Tender and his guards who quickly played along. Midnight just smiled and have a stern look of a drill sergeant "If you enjoyed that much maybe we should ramp up the training." Tender quickly intervened "No no he is still recovering from the poison." Tender said as suddenly her diagnosis spell broke not fade but broke. Spellslinger begrudgingly also played along "I think he needs to learn more about good manners for a noble and magic. But he will need to rest first. It feels like raising a foal all over again but this time with a few pieces of memory intact." She said looking at Henry hoping he'd get the hint about manners. Henry just laughed and the maid seemed less nervous and left the smoothie "Well then your highness I wish you a speedy recovery you seem to be in good hooves" the maid said before leaving trying to make head or tail of the situation. Spellslinger turned to Henry with a stern gaze "Why did you have us lie to a maid." Henry took the smoothie and slowly drank it only stopping to speak. "Isn't it obvious? The ones who caused my little poison incident have ties within the castle so keeping them in the dark and spreading false information is key. Maid and the other servants of the castle are likely to talk with eachother we must be careful." Midnight laughs "Says the pony who healed a cook and have the Head of the Royal guard advice for a joke." Henry just downed the entire smoothie in one go and stood up slowly still feeling stiff and having a mild headache. "True but both were not to much to cause unwanted attention and remember having given Shiny some advice. Now considering the chance that the guards all look alike is really small I theorise there is some sort of magic in place to disguise them to ensure their identity is secret and hidden could one of you get a helmet and armour with a similar affect if that is the case." Henry stated. I mean it's blatantly obvious that the guards can't all look alike there must be something causing it unless the entire guard is related which would be even more of a cluster fuck i don't wanna think about. Wait I thought fuck hmm no pony swears this time that is strange. Henry thought. Midnight and Spellslinger looked at Henry in surprise. "You sure you aren't remembering things Blueblood? The armour enchantments is something isn't something that is commonly discussed." Spellslinger said. "Nope just simple deduction that lead to that revalation. Now can I get a set of armour that does the same but a different appearance?" Henry said bluntly. Midnight smiled "I'll ask the Princesses." Midnight said before trotting off. Leaving Henry with Spellslinger and Tender Care. Spellslinger sternly looked at Henry" Blueblood what are you planning?" Henry just smirked "Nothing to special just preparing for Dartmoor. There are signs of corruption is apparent within the paperwork. And I stated beforehoof that I would act to deal with it before tomorrow it's sun rises. And act as a regent to my true identity. Thus I need a way to disguise myself. And I honestly do not think I want our unseen foe to expect something is up. I mean we only get one good start and we should ensure we have enough momentum to seem overpowering to our enemies and inspire hope within those affected by the corruption. The missing ponies reports makes the possibility of a slave driven diamond dog mine high or something akin to it. So we Will have to carry extra rations ,medical equipment and weaponry along just in case." Henry said calmly. Spellslinger looked at Henry "You really thought of everything didn't you?" Henry laughed a little as his eyes returned to a normal neutral pony expression. "Not really. If Midnight gets equipment I'll have to have to look for other guards which will suffice to handle the possible corruption. And aren't affected by our unknown foe responsible for the poisoning which only leaves Thestrals out of the list of possible enemies and of course my aunties and Shiny." Spellslinger looked at Henry confused "What about Cadence? She is pretty nice? Or do you remember you two didn't get along." Henry sighed "Cadence is a well difficult subject. I could ask her but honestly I'm happy I didn't run into her" Henry said noticing his headache was fading as was his exhaustion only stiffness remained in his muscles "Hmm strange it seems my headache and exhaustion is fading. Is that normal?" Spellslinger looked at Henry utterly confused but Tender rushed at Henry and cast another diagnosis spell and looked confused. "Your body is regaining it's strength rapidly as if your internal magic which is within every creature is actively aiding within the body. It's known to stabilize but this rate is unexpected. Considering you previously had a magical outburst while training it isn't something out of the norm." Henry just cringed internally.Magic of course flipping magic. Would explain why if Tirek drains them of magic they become weakened but what about cold hard biological systems. Earth doesn't have magic. Ok out of personal experience some precognitive dreams which are unexplainable tend to happen but still how heavy do they really on magic. Wait wrong thought Auntie Luna and Tia move the sun and moon so I should ask what is magic. I know it transcends the laws of space and time. Heck even ones own dimension thanks to Starswill banishment of the sirens. Wait space and time are coordinates ugh but how should I approach time. If both worlds can interact should I approach it as a one system. I am in way over my head I should research I could approach it as two dimensions and work from there. Dimensions can be crossed with magic Starswill proofed it with the sirens but wasn't there also a mirror connecting both worlds afterwards or was it created as the bridge? Am I even labeling it correctly seeing it as Equestria it's reality as a different dimension. I am so going to need to go read a lot now well put to the mind aspect. Chrysalis did entrance or is going to entrance Shinning Armour at the Canterlot wedding if that hasn't passed yet. So if the magic can do that maybe oh I really need to revitalise Dartmoor for sure if it holds the possibility of returning home or atleast a way to understand what the hell happened to me. Henry thought not noticing Spellslinger was waving a hoof Infront of his face. "Hello Blueblood you in there?" Spellslinger said waving her hoof infront of the stallion who seemed to be in his own little world. "Yes. Sorry I was distracted by the limitless potential of magic and some knowledge I should not posses means to it. Starswill really threw my views time in a frenzy. As for other spells let's just say I'm even more motivated now for magical studies and the revitalisation of Dartmoor just become more important." Henry blurted out. Spellslinger smiled "Well it's nice to see you motivated even if those spells are quite complex." Canterlot Castle Lunar wing. Midnight quickly rushed in Luna her private quarters where the princess of the Night was practicing modern speech into a mirror before she got interrupted and seemed slightly embarrassed. Midnight quickly spoke "Sorry Princess but your nephew requested armour with a identity concealment spell the guards use." Luna nodded and try to regain her royal composure "My sister and I have reviewed Blueblood his actions. And instead of looking at his actions as that of a modern confused stallion we looked at is as if he were a noble during the less peaceful times within our past. We've concluded that he would request such an armour to keep his approach of secrecy to undermine the foes that elude us any information so already had one prepared. But did not expect him to be foolish enough to ask for it so soon considering his weakened state." Luna said a bit strained as she attempts to adjust to modern speech. Midnight smiled"Well you can add risk taking and driven to a fault to that way to view him. He forced himself through a rough excersise akin to guard training in result and used magic to enforce it. Don't ask me how Spellslinger did tell him it was stupid and risky because it was manipulation of one's own body through magic to some degree. I don't know much about it your highness I'm no unicorn or a doctor" Luna seemed slightly irritated "Thou art pulling my tail. We should give our nephew a dire lecture about the dangers of experimentation with magic and the risks it entails." Luna said angrily her wings flaring up. Midnight nodded "Your highness I do think he was aware of it. Spellslinger was about to explode but then your nephew distracted her worry fueled anger by the subject of storing sound." Luna sighed "Seems our nephew can still evade trouble. As for thou request for armour for him it has already been prepared. My sister also foresaw our nephew would desire military aid and limit it to the Thestrals and night guard where he could so they will be expecting him. Thour news shows it might be sooner then even my sister and I anticipated but we have prepared. As for thour duty thou must still keep an eye on our nephew. We have convinced our sister to allow the armour to have a multiple enchantments on it both for his safety and so We can see what our nephew is up to. Thou can take the armour it's prepared in the armoury and return to thour duties. Since thee and thine colleague acted like school fillies within their first estrous cycle. Thou arnt forbidden to try and court our nephew. If thou can keep it from intervening with thine work." Midnight bowed blushing slightly and left the Lunar wing of the Castle. > Chapter 7 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot Castle infirmary. "I might need to know where my own chambers within the castle are. Considering I'm being lead everywhere like a newborn foal and have seen the medical wing more then I have seen my own bedroom." Henry commented as he took some time to gaze around in the Infirmary. Noticing alot of potion bottles and beds but no advanced medical equipment beyond the beds, their note boards, a pair of stethoscopes that looked out of a long bygone era, good old bandages and books alot of books. Spellslinger noticed Henry gazing around and replied "Do you like it the Canterlot Castle Infirmary has the best equipment and most advanced medical spells in its collection." Henry just facehooved Alright Henry don't be a dick. How do I explain that their overly dependant use of magic might limit other tribes except for the select few with a talent with health or medicine. Henry thought. "Uhm... Spellslinger , Tender. Not that it isn't impressive but It could be better much better. I'm talking equipment made for non unicorns to help along better. Not that I'd know how to make it all. As I said no medical professional." Henry stated but Tender care tackled him to the ground and have him the crazy look. "NO MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL!! You're notes have been driving me insane and now you're saying my Medical equipment could be better! You need to tell me what you know." Tender Care shouted partly crazy standing above Henry making him seem genuinely scared causing him to throw her off him and stare at her angrily with a predatory gaze causing Tender to whince the shadows in the room seemed to slightly curve towards Henry but nopony noticed it. "Never do that again. You seemed like a mad pony ready to cut me open and honestly it's flipping scary. And never shout at me ever again."Henry said angry. Tender scaredly nodded and Henry his eyes turned normal and his posture turned less threatening. Spellslinger just stared at Henry"Blueblood!" Henry quickly turned to Spellslinger and then back at Tender "Sorry old habits from the poison induced state. Predatory defensive instincts from a less peaceful place. Combine that with the crazy pushy nature Tender just demonstrated and I responded like that sorry." He said apologetically Spellslinger sighed "Conflict comes natural to you because of what happened?" Tender sighed remembering her discussion with him before his training and realised he wasn't in a normal pony mind state. Henry nodded "Oh yeah , no magic nor Harmony. As I said with my aunties present before not the most kind place. I'm sorry. Well atleast none we can recall and our myths aren't all pleasant so I do hope they are wrong." Spellslinger seemed worried about Henry his words and quickly asked "If there was no magic and you are as quickly to anger like the griffons combined with your knowledge I can only imagine how bad it can be." Henry laughed nervously"it wasn't all bad but yeah it wasn't perfect but nowhere truly is. But I'm going to be sure to prevent similar mistakes being made here. But yes our knowledge is scary but within that knowledge is a long bloody and sometimes corrupt history which is good to learn from for those who don't look at history are doomed to repeat it." Henry said thinking of earth and home remembering that though he worried about what his current situation ment on a more fundamental level. Some knowledge of humanity could accidentally slip out as he tends to ramble about things. Then realisation hit him. If he could get there and was pulled there by magical means that means magic might have sept into his world. Or that a weak link between both worlds could exist or be made through the way he came even if the chance was slim and it worried him. His expression and body language showed his worry. Spellslinger noticed Henry his worrying state and spoke "Blueblood are you alright?" Henry turned to Spellslinger as he was about to speak Midnight came barging in with a black armour with beautiful silver stars engraved in it. Midnight read the situation in the room "Uhm did I miss something?" Midnight said as she calmly put the armour near Henry. "Nothing to important don't worry Midnight and to answer your question Spellslinger no I am not alright. But it can wait."Henry said as he put on the armour when he put on the helmet his name turned black and coat turned grey. "Well this is weird now let's go Midnight I want to see the state of the ponies who I'll lead to deal with the situation within my lands." Henry seemed eager to leave the Infirmary. Midnight nodded and was about to lead Henry out of there but both Spellslinger and Tender Care stepped in their way. Spellslinger glared at Henry "You're not getting away that easily Blueblood. Now answer me are you alright?" She said sounding stern. Henry sighed and looked straight at her with a calm stony gaze "No I am not but I simply don't have the time to dwell on it. All you three have to do is prevent me from going to far and honestly it doesn't cause if I let my thoughts dwell that far I will be of no use to anypony." Henry said calmly as if it was normal. "Blueblood that isn't a healthy." Spellslinger said worryingly. "He knows it isn't healthy, he just can't let things go. He feels he has to redeem himself through helping Dartmoor and stopping the corruption he saw. Sure other motives are there but I can see it clearly. He is ashamed and scared from himself. He needs to do something good not just to help other but for himself." Tender Care said saddened. "Are you done psychoanalysing me?" Henry said sternly as he noticed the mares both looking at him with compassion and worry as if he was a little kid that got beaten up and abused. "Stop that all three of you. I am not a little colt needing comfort and stop Questioning my mental state while you're at it. When I don't need three mares acting overly emotional and mothering me. Have you three understood that." Spellslinger and Tender were about to interrupt but Henry silenced them as his eyes turned predatory. "I get it I truly do but I can't handle it right now when I break down you can do all that you think is best but not now. I have to do my duties both to myself and the ponies under me. A leader sometimes must do things not best for themselves ask Auntie Tia she learned that lesson the hard way." Henry said sternly. All three mares looked at him in shock and realized what he ment by having a duty and the meaning behind what he ment with leaders sometimes having to do things that aren't the best for themselves made the tale of Nightmare Moon come to their minds but not as an old mares tale. No they started to think of how hard it must have been for Princess Celestia to banish her own sister even if she turned evil. This realisation made the mares tear up a little but they tried not to show it as they only nodded. And then Midnight and Spellslinger started to lead Henry towards the Lunar wing. But unbeknownst to Henry both Princesses heard everything since Midnight came in with the armour including the saddened sniffles and attempts of holding back tears from the nearby mares when he brought it up. Meanwhile within the Canterlot Castle Throne room. Celestia who was busy with Day Court but quickly cancelled it as the turned emotional being reminded about when she banished Luna to the moon and how Henry had worded it. "I'm sorry my little ponies but Day court is discontinued for today" Celestia said trying to not let her ponies notice her distress. As the throne room ran empty she teleported towards the Lunar wing to be with her sister. Luna her private Quarters. Princess Luna was in tears being reminded of her biggest mistake so bluntly by her nephew's voice and the sadness coming from the held back tears from the subjects near him but suddenly a white wing covered her and pulled her close in a comforting hug. "It's alright sister, it's in the past. I'm just happy to have you back." Celestia said kindly tears in her eyes as she hugged Luna trying to comfort her. "But even our own nephew and subjects sees our mistakes and saw us as evil. And our deeds hurt thee so much sister." Luna said between sobs while hugging Celestia. Celestia was about to say something to comfort her as more talking between Henry and his guards came through the armour. Back with Henry and the two foalsitters guards. "I know Celestia feels sorry for what has passed between her and her sister it's just we never think of it like that. I don't think I could do that to family even for the betterment of everypony ." Spellslinger said sadly. "When Luna returned most Thestrals even after the harsher treatment we endured sympathised with our princess of the night some still blame her for our current low numbers and treatment." Midnight said looking down. "It's good both of you see it more then an old mares tale and it is a sad part of family history. Especially since neither was to blame. I want you to remember their tale and try and prevent similar hardship. I only wish they knew neither of them were to blame." Henry said sombrely. Both Midnight and Spellslinger nodded but then sudden realization hit Henry. If spells have to rhyme like the unfinished spell of Starswill then I think it's worth making a chant I know it's risky but those two deserve all the support they can get. Henry thought as his horn glowed. "To the sisters who wear the crown. Please do not Frown. Do not feel any shame for neither was to blame. For in days long past a dye was cast. The winds of fate filled one with hate. While the other wept for admiration long kept. With so much time lost you both payed the cost. It is not a reason to wallow for some pills are hard to swallow. Instead stand proud and teach the crowd. Cause from this pain there is a lesson to gain. To those who hold the throne you do not stand alone. For when it gets hard our love will be a ward .And when you want to yield let our warmth be your shield. For when you get meek our comfort you won't seek. To show how we care or it will be there. For all who wish you well will fuel this spell." Henry said his horn sparking different colours as side effect and him falling down and feeling dizzy. Maybe I shouldn't have said our while thinking of all who possibly care about them including humans. Henry thought. Wherever Cadence is within Canterlot Castle. Candence was giving some Mares love advice as she suddenly felt a potent love fueled spell activate. Her being the Princess of love and being heavily sensitive to love and emotion related magic but she found the source of it strange. It had the magical aura of Blueblood and somepony else cobbled together and then was fueled by love of more then a thousand creatures. She quickly ran to look for the Princesses to warn them that Blueblood most likely did something stupid again and wanted to be the one to decide the punishment he would get since she was the Princess of love. Luna her private quarters. Both Luna and Celestia were still hugging eachother the comfort of 3 ponies they were hearing through an enchantment made them feel slightly better but it didn't do much. Then they heard Henry his chant and both of them felt comfort and compassion from many creatures who felt the same and felt compassionate for them. As if more then thousands of creatures were hugging them and stroking their mane and sending warmth and comfort their way. Unbeknownst to the Princesses and Henry not all of it came from Equestria but somewhere else entirely. Though it did not heal the wounds and guilt both Princesses felt it did help them. Back with Henry. Spellslinger lifted up Henry and noticed that He did grow muscle mass during his training regime and sighed. "I really hope this isn't going to become a habit. First your experimentation and now a improvised chant." Spellslinger facehooved. "Well it worked didn't it. Honestly not my best rhyming actually scratch that probably one of my worst improf works ever." Henry said as he got helped up and supported on Spellslinger. "That's only makes it worse I've felt the ambient magic change in air cause I was near you. You shouldn't cast spells even if it is to comfort your aunties!" Spellslinger said angrily. Henry just sighed "Spellslinger I understand it makes you worried and angry but I chose it. I mean from my perspective magic is weird something I hardly have knowledge of except that one book and tid bits of information still swimming around in my head. So I actually expect it to blow up in my face or cause issues. And I always mentally ask myself if it is worth the risk. And to be honest if there is a small little chance it lessened the pain and weight waying down on any pony especially my aunties then I'd gladly take that risk. As I said before I live for the seeing the spark in somepony else their lives. Be it inspiration or happiness." Henry said smiling. Midnight just facehooved "Blueblood that sounds so sappy. I thought you were a big mean predator in your poisoned induced incident. Atleast you're acting like a sappy colt for once." Midnight commented as she waited for Henry and Spellslinger to get back up. Henry laughed as he and Spellslinger got back up. "True but never mistake sappy for harmless. And it's apex predator not a normal one." Henry said calmly as he continued onwards. "Blueblood that isn't funny." Spellslinger commented with a worried expression written on her face "Honestly it is you two are so cute when worried about me. Now I understand I'm not acting very uhm what would the term be Colt like. But let's continue onwards we were going to the barrack's of the night guard to see who would fit for my little expedition to Dartmoor right?" Henry said calmly as he continued trotting behind Midnight who now has taken the lead. "Yes we are. Also why did you label it as apex predator? That label is only used for the really dangerous stuff. Are you trying to act all scary when wearing the armour?" Midnight said jokingly. "Midnight don't encourage him!" Spellslinger shouted. "Oh no I mean it quite literally. Even without magic we could basically destroy our entire world. Kind of funny we have enough understanding about psychics to cause major destruction. And after our second world spanning war the threat of mutual assured destruction never went away but most people kind of ignored it or don't realise it. But don't worry I have restraint why do you think I warned Tender in my notes what not to experiment or play with. And since I can adjust temperatures using basic telekenises. I'm already a threat enough I mean everyone with basic understanding of what heat and cold is should see the danger there and that telekenises can cause changes within temperature by the understanding of what it is fundamentally and the dangers it can bring." Henry said thinking aloud. Spellslinger have Henry stares and pouted while walking behind him. Midnight sighed"Then why not just go to Dartmoor yourself. I mean honestly from what you said you sound strong enough to handle things." Midnight rertored trying to pry if Henry was pulling her tail or why he would prefer guards along which won't be much help. "Quite simple really. Social manipulation. One scary strong pony in a place of corruption wearing armour would cause discomfort. If they are surrounded by recognised guards they won't be feared as much but it will seem like a planned out operation without anything well fishy." Henry replied "Also it makes it easier to spark some pride in the guards make it easier to control an area manipulate a situation in our advantage. Create cooperation and use the combined injustices inflicted to the likely slave labours if it is a slave runned diamond dog mine to create a kinship that then can be turned into a unity that would be profitable in the long run stability and cooperation or well against other injustices that I may not have forseen." Henry stated calmly. "That is a cold and cruel way to look at it. Playing with somepony their emotions just to ensure it goes your way" Spellslinger commented. "True but effective and will cause the least amount of fear. It will also leave a moldable foundation which to work from if it is their own choice. Now I'm not trying to be cold or cruel I'm just approaching the problem in my way. While it's underhanded and manipulative it will make it easier to help those effected. It's basic tactics really. But the reason I want to act immediately and head towards the barrack's is to be able to head to Dartmoor as quickly as possible and lessen possible suffering. By similar methods destructive groups have risen to power but unlike them I will focus on cooperation and advancement. And I'm not tempering a cruel organisation here out of the victims of corruption or injustice. I'm going to give them a choice for those who just want to leave and continue with their lives I will attempt to support as for those who would follow I would try to use the injustices they suffered through as a lesson and drive to cooperation and advancement. They'll be the most trustworthy for they will know what it's like to be treated badly and would seek to prevent such things to ever happen again." Henry stated calmly trying to seem professional. But as he got distracted by doubt settling in his mind his words made both guard mares and the princesses who were spying on him through the enchantments of the armour smile not that Henry noticed. I hope I can do it honestly. I'm just one man sure I got some knowledge about chemistry and biology but that was freaking highschool and self indulgend learning. I'm a programmer analyst who enjoys reading, private projects involving single board computing or restoration of old hardware and roleplaying or strategy games. I honestly can easily analyse the working and possible side effects of my actions to some degree. And social engineering because of the course I followed in security for my own enjoyment and what little I know of electrical engineering but still is that enough combined with the tid bits of information I can recall from books and highschool. Why couldn't this happen to someone with better credentials and education. I'm not qualified for this. Henry thought worryingly and sighed. "Bit for your thoughts? " Midnight said as they continued walking. "Nothing just doubting myself. I know my aunties have doubts themselves when they take actions. But I honestly have no choice and have to continue with my approach. It's just without threats now and not much to distract me since I do not know what to expect of the possible recruits for my plan. My mind is unoccupied with a direct goal. It makes me wander and doubt and the armour taking away the possiblity of direct threats aimed at me it only lets me ponder more. And concerning what I thought off on the fly during my excersise in the bath before made you look at me like a Tartarean demon you probably can understand when that mind goes into a cycle of doubt it can be rather well troubling. Especially since I think I'm not qualified for any of the things I'm planning to do." Henry said his ears drooping down and his tail going slightly closer to his legs. "By Luna her full moon! Don't think like that then." Midnight said giving a rough hoof bump to Henry causing Henry to unwind and smile a little. "I mean seriously. Since you woke up you've been only selectively speaking about your poison induced state. And don't you deny it. You distracted your aunties and me with those lessons you took to heart to calm and sooth them. And you also told Tender Care something. You shouldn't worry about yourself cause you're still the type of pony to weigh the dice in their favour a typical pony noble but atleast you don't think of yourself first. Not to mention you think you shouldn't be in charge honestly you made both Tender and Spellslinger in shock with your knowledge let that sink in somepony who studied healing and another pony specialised in combat oriented spells .Now giddy up. Get that royal plot in gear and if I hear you doubt yourself I'll slap some semblance of sense in your head." Midnight said as she pepped up Henry and have him a soft hit with her batlike wings. "Thanks Midnight." Henry said laughing "I still can't believe you used giddy up to try and motivate me. Seems like the dark rough Bat pony has a heart aswell."Wow tough bat pony has a heart and know how to motivate. Henry thought "Don't call me soft I am no soft cuddly stallion." Midnight said sternly. "I didn't mean it like that what I mean is thank you. It's good to have somepony here aswell to keep my head on straight. I had friends in my poison induced state who helped with that." Henry said smiling as he have her a playful bump. Spellslinger smiled then wanted to comfort Henry against his own doubts but Midnight stepped towards her and whispered."Listen Spell. Don't he is more mareish then coltish and let him act as he is. But it's alright trust a Thestrals instincts on this so treat him a bit more like a mare instead of a babysitter or a wounded little colt. I know you want to help but maybe treat him like a friend be a little rough joke a little. I mean he did teased you before with flirting not common for stallions to take the first step unless if you count old times. So don't baby him and tease him if he seems to fall back into his dump. I know you enjoyed it and it keeps him distracted. I know you enjoyed it even if you became a stuttering mess" Spellslinger was about to retort while she blushed a little but they arrived at the Lunar wing door that lead straight to the barrack's of the Lunar guards and Spellslinger calmly turned to Midnight "Alright but you gave me the go ahead to court and support him night. So don't be a jelly pony if he doesn't look at you in the same when I court him after he has time to adjust and get better." Spellslinger whispered giggling. "Oh come on I don't even see him that way. Sure he got a little stronger but muscle isn't everything and have you seen how he doubts himself I honestly don't see him like a possible herd mate." Midnight whispered back to Spellslinger who giggled and whispered back "You didn't say it was impossible." Spellslinger whispered teasingly causing Midnight to grumble annoyed. "I don't like him like that alright I'm only begining to see him more then just the spoiled bratty mule of a stallion he was before and I want to see how he will change and if it sticks. I truly hope this change for the better will last but I don't want to get my hopes up." Midnight whispered back. "Well the princesses approved of any attempt at courting him." Spellslinger said teasingly blushing Henry his gaze turned to the whispering giggling and conversing mares "Uhm what are you two doing?" Henry asked confused "Nothing!" Both said in unison blushing heavily. Henry scratched his head "Females no matter the species I still can't read them entirely." Henry grumbled as he went through the Doors to the Lunar wing barracks and quickly got followed by his guards in tow. Back with Luna and Celestia. After having comforted in each others embrace and the warmth and comfort being send their way from a chant both Luna and Celestia were better for now as the wounds of the past take time to heal the words they overheard from enchantments of the armour was comforting. "Luna what do you think of our nephew. How much do you think is left of him within that stallion we see now? His actions seemed strange he did not lie to us but as Midnight said he seems to manipulate to get his way should we be worried about his actions sister?" Celestia asked worryingly. "We do not know how much of our nephew is within the stallion we see now. But his mind is in turmoil, chaotic and hard to read but from what we did glimpse within when he remembered a moment with his father pieces of our nephew remain and the stallion he is now first seemed to not identify himself as our nephew even with if he took the shape of his appearance in his dream but the foal like personality seemed to cling to him beyond the dream so we cannot say sister." Luna said before letting out a worried sigh. "The stallion he is now feels our nephew's attachments of the foal like personality. Combine that with the words and his choice of actions I do not see him as a threat because he doesn't wish to be one. And he cares for us sister even if I dislike being targeted by a experimental spell it shows inside he sees us as family or cares for us atleast." "You are right sister. I worried a little. Blueblood has been acting strange and has foresight I didn't expect him to have but if his foal like young personality clings to what he has become now it's a good sign. I wish he would speak to us honestly and openly. But I can't force our nephew. Especially since he seemed to keep his stubborn and manipulative nature. Only applying it differently." Celestia replied "I do hope he will keep experimenting with magic down. I can only imagine how Cadence would respond to him using love to fuel a spell." Celestia said while laughing imagining Cadence berating Blueblood and bicker. "Didn't you tell me our nephew relationship with Cadence was unpleasant since our nephew's self love and self proclaimed importance drove her insane. Not to mention his whining for spells to make him attractive to the mares." Luna replied. Celestia laughed "Oh yes I felt sorry for all the ponies who had to deal with his antics and whining when he came and demanded me to force Cadence to help him. Oh and when Cadence said that no mare would love a stuck up stallion like him that he was only good to look at but beyond that he had the romantic attraction of a Shaved diamond dog." Celestia laughed a little Luna laughed as well "I presume he didn't take that well." Luna said as suddenly a very annoyed Princess Of Love barged into the room. "Aunties are you two alright. I've sensed your brick of a nephew cast a spell using love and I got worried with how strong it was. When I get my hooves on him I'll treat him like the stuck up overgrown foal that he is." Cadence said angrily as she barged in. "No need to worry Cadence he did nothing bad. It was actually a spell to comfort us. Even if he did not think about the repercussions and dangers of a chant based spell especially one in the spur of the moment." Celestia said kindly. "What!?" Cadence said in utter confusion "Blueblood isn't even good with magic he only uses it to keep himself clean as for chants they need to rhyme or hold meaning. And you are telling me Blueblood has not only made a strong magical spell powered by love but did so on the fly without any motive?" Cadence asked utterly confused. This can't be right. First chants hold meaning and to make a chant based spell fueled by love you need to understand the emotion and Blueblood is too stuck up to care for anypony besides himself. Not to mention i felt somepony else it's magical signature in the spell. Blueblood must be tricking his aunties or fooled some poor fool to help him. I'm going to teach him a lesson not to play with love magic and if he even tries the but Cousin route I'm going to get him stuck with the Lunar guards that would keep him calm for atleast a week. Maybe they can finally get through his thick skull. Cadence thought. "We wouldn't say without motive our nephew seemed to comfort us from our past as he was using it to teach his guards a lesson he took from it."Luna said not wanting to go into details since she rather not fall back into the sad thoughts that came with it. "I don't believe it. That just doesn't sound like Blueblood not the one I know. And no offense but I don't think the nice cute little foal he was is true at all. I think he is planning something." Cadence replied still not believing the possibility of a nice Blueblood. "Oh that he is planning something Cadence but he did tell us his plans and we know enough to see he doesn't mean harm he actually made us promise to act if he does so but we cannot say what is going on sadly that is up to him. Now normally you wouldn't hear of this and we would deny anything going on beyond his recovery after his little incident which was being poisoned. But I hope you do not cause any attention to fall on him for once our nephew wishes to not be in the centre of attention but I can say he is currently near the Lunar Guard barracks."Celestia said with a smile knowing Cadence would act anyway and thought of it as fair payback for the subtle manipulation. "Fine I won't drag attention to him." Cadence said before heading out of the room. What are you planning Blueblood? Why did the Princesses mean with you not wanting any attention. If you are abusing your status as a prince again then Faust help me. Cadence thought still angry for not knowing what's going on and because of the manipulation of love magic thinking there is a selfish reason behind it. Lunar wing barrack's. As Henry and his guards entered they noticed a mixture of Thestrals and a few unicorns around the barracks some prepping themselves while others heading to what seemed like a mess hall while through a window a group of Lunar guards could be seen training outside. Yep I feel out of place here. I mean and I don't want to offend the respectful image of any military. Please god anyone or anypony help me through this. Henry thought as he trotted forwards stiffly with a stern gaze upon his muzzle. "Who is the CO here?" Henry shouted loudly getting the attention of everypony at the entrance of the barrack's. Dear Faust or even discord help me through this. He thought as the gazes fell on him. A rough Thestral mare with a scar over their right eye and discoloration in their right wing stepped towards Henry. "If you are asking who's in charge of these execuses of guards that be me. Dark Tactics sir. Now what does a unicorn stallion want with the Lunar guard. I've heard that some unicorn would have to be listened to as if they are a major because of a situation with the nobility now I don't recognize you so why should I let some wish wash noble who sweet talked the princesses into any sort of command order my troops." The Thestral said intimidatingly looking at Henry who couldn't help but laugh internally at the display of a pony trying to be intimidating. "Was that supposed to be intimidating?" Henry said with a predatory smile. "Now normally I would respect soldiers but considering your response I'm not sure if you are even worth that. As for why I need Lunar guard it's quite simple I need soldiers for a mission and need to be sure they will be loyal and I thought omnivores with predatory instincts would be the most useful considering my approach to things. Now tell me why you were trying to be intimidating and were disrespectful before I choose not to take this to the princesses and turn you into a laughing stock. Since as the acting regent of the fool of a prince right now I hold his authority according to the laws so try pushing me see what that does for you. As for who I am Regent or sir is how I'll be addressed is that clear." Henry said sternly as everypony in the room felt the earie presence of a predator combined with the terrifying presence that is mostly felt in the Everfree forest. This caused Dark Tactics to look in shock. I know I ain't a soldier but as a regent or as a prince they'd need to show more respect. Honestly if this lady wants to act all tough I'll show her why it doesn't fly with me. I could make the floor cold with telekenises magic make ice form and turn her into a practical joke. Henry thought. "Wow easy there. Regent. This is no reason to call for a duel. Tactics is just looking out for the soldiers. Since the Lunar guard isn't what it used to be." Midnight said trying to defuse the situation. What the hell Blueblood you want to fight her for testing you. She got those scars fighting and defeating a manticore. Midnight thought. Henry just scoffed "Still doesn't change her actions so give me a reason not to demand a duel instead of going to the princesses to have this dealt with."Henry said looking at Midnight.Duels are a thing. Oh this is just dreamy possible public humiliation of Nobles if I have to make a display of them Henry thought happily. "B... Regent maybe you should listen to Midnight. Sure as a regent taking over Blueblood his duties this means she is out of line but still you should first listen to her what would the princesses think." Spellslinger replied in a pleading tone. Henry grumbled "Fine talk now before I change my mind." Henry ordered at Dark tactics who still was still in shock by the actions of the to her unknown stallion. "Wow a stallion with a pair of tits. And a smart one too" Dark said smiling "I already like you. Not the nobility type I guess you're like the few unicorns from within the guard raised by a bunch of Thestrals if your temper and behaviour is any sign." Dark said smiling this caused Henry to make a angry horselike snort. "And a wild streak too wow where did the princesses dig you up off did they use a time travel spell to pluck you out of the past. Well my apologies for my previous actions sir. I was looking out for my troops as the Lunar guard isn't what it used to be to many positions lacking. Personal lacking aswell and the hole stigma that surrounds princess Luna because of the past makes it even harder. I can't risk anypony trying to make it worse. It's already bad enough we currently fall under Shining armour like the Solar guard does. So why don't we go to my office and we can talk about what brings you here and why you need troops the Princess kept it rather silent but considering you're the regent for Prince fuck up I can imagine it is having to be kept quiet." Dark Tactics replied. Henry seemed to calm down when Dark explained why she was attempting to be intimidating before. "Hmm fine. I understand taking care of ones own. Lead on also I suspect the unicorns in the night guard come from mixed families with Thestrals." Henry said smiling.Pair of tits? Oh right different gender ratio females are most likely to be the tough ones then for ponies. That will take some getting used to. Dark Tactics saluted and smiled "Yes they do not that our lives are easy mind you. They've got the brunt on both fronts because of it but they are loyal without a fault and aren't as stuck up or useless as the unicorns who didn't grow up around Thestrals." Dark Tactics said as she lead Henry and his guards to a door which opened to a office with a dark oaken desk lot of paperwork and two chairs one at each side of the desk. Henry entered with his guards in tow Spellslinger closed the door behind them and cast a sound proofing spell to ensure what was discussed there would not leak out.So because unicorns were raised by omnivores bat ponies they got less stuck up. Interesting. Makes sense to be less uhm racist towards them then. Also considering they were raised by the uhm worse treated minority I guess would explain why they would be more flexible and smart. Conflict breeds progress. Henry thought Dark Tactics sat down behind her desk and offered Henry the remaining seat to which he obliged and sat down both Spellslinger and Midnight standing next to where he sat. "So you said you needed troops and loyalty was an issue. As the regent for Blueblood I imagine that fool isn't doing well. So debrief me." Dark Tactics said calmly. "Blueblood has Amnesia small memories of his foal hood remain he is recuperating from the poisoning. I'm sure you are aware of the poison incident since it was during the night and the Lunar guard found him. Now as a result he is being kept separate for rehabilitation and re-education. Now that leaves him unable to do his duties and too easily manipulated and because the events that lead up to this situation are questionable if you put it lightly. Let's just say it left things rather unstable. I've been assigned to deal with the situation but I am in need of loyal troops not suspected to talk and preferably not as soft as the Solar guards since they are a laughing stock after what I noticed when Blueblood did his little disappearing act." Henry stated. "I see where you are coming from sir but why?"Dark Tactics asked Henry "Even if Blueblood reverted to before the incident that cost his parents mentally and doesn't recall doing so much harm. Why would you need troops and what for? And it still doesn't explain why you do not give your name and only wish to be addressed by your title."Dark added noticing a somber look on Henry his muzzle. "It's hard to explain Dark. I know the Thestrals have had it hard. I can only compare it to other tragedies I am aware off. Some of which would make even the princesses weep or look in disgust if they knew." Henry said looking straight at Dark his disgust and sadness being readable from his expression as he thought of the many cruelties Humanity had brought on themselves. From slavery to canibalism and many other tragedies some reserved to the old retellings from history books others sadly not. "But to the point I am planning to level the playing field. I need soldiers to deal with the weeds of corruption caused by mismanagement within Dartmoor. I need the Lunar guards because I need ponies I can trust and you lot being naturally tougher both physically because of your more predatory nature and mentally because of the hardships you've endured. I wont sugar coat it. I could easily deal with it myself but that would only cause more fear then it is worth. Plus good reputation and aiding denizens of Equestria even in what is considered their home front would give good publicity for your troops."Henry said calmly. "That's all good and well but you said you could do it alone and you want my troops as what emotional support for your mission shouldn't you ask the Solar guard for a mission like that. I know you weren't kidding i recognised the disgust and sadness in your expression its not something someone can fake but you didn't tell me who you are."Dark tactics retorted this caused Henry to laugh. "Why? If a unicorn stallion would barge in defeating all manner of vile and corrupt individuals with only two guards in tow making them look like inadequate foals would you trust them or fear them. Also there is only that much food and equipment I can carry to Dartmoor. Now if it were a battalion of Lunar guards it would be a different story. Sure they'd still fear whats going on but they'd see it differently. The situation would be easier to turn to our hoof. It would be easier to revitalize the area and would bring some pride to the Lunar guard's in the eyes of the public. Its basic social manipulation. Using the feared or looked down upon image of the Lunar guards as a stepping stone and not being something to mess with. A combination of fear, awe and respect would form towards your troops. As such it would help you in the long run. As for who i am. I sadly can't say for multiple reasons. One is that I'd be painting a target on your back. Secondly is that my anonymity is going to be a weapon for those who conspired against the Thestrals who turned little Bluey into such a pain in our flank. As such I can't risk my identity leaking out. You know predatory ambush tactic hiding where the prey doesn't expect it until the trap is set. And my trap is a sweet one."Henry said with a dark grin that was filled with glee in prospect on what's to come. "I don't know if i should call you crazy or praise the Princesses that you aren't against us." Dark replied.Where did the princesses get this scary colt. Those eyes are terrifying. What does he mean with a sweet trap. I'll need to get to understand this Regent incase he becomes a threat. Dart thought Blueblood why are you saying it so bluntly. Spellslinger thought then she recalled the chat of where his mind was in the poisoned state and she doubted it especially after the hole talk in the Royal baths. He is being blunt and calm about the situation how much pride does Blueblood have. I know he feels responsible for the ponies in Dartmoor but don't get ahead of yourself. It's atleast better then your previous self doubt. Midnight thought "You don't have to worry about my sanity or pride that is a lost cause. I know you worry for your soldiers so I will tell simple. I'm a stallion who aims for results I care deeply for others I know the price of combat which is why if the princesses wouldn't have approved me being aided by the guards I would have simply gone to Dartmoor myself and used a sadly more unbefitting way to deal with the current situation of corruption and missing ponies. Luckily that isn't the approach I will have to take but the reason I would go so far is to prevent any further suffering. As a Soldier you know the price you pay for the safety of mind and body of others and you feel responsible for your subordinates. I feel the same responsibility towards the ponies in Dartmoor when I found signs that point to their plight. I know you might all think I'm being prideful or arrogant but understand this I see and take any chance It will take without a second thought. If it is to protect those under my care."Henry calmly stated. "I understand your mentality Mister Regent. I don't approve of it but I've also known hardships. I got my scar fighting a manticore to save my fellow Lunar guards during a scouting mission. I'm not going to pry what made you like you are. I'm pretty sure anything that can make a stallion become like you isn't something anypony should see but I trust you to take care of my troops. I do hope you can step away from that way of thinking sir. Maybe find a nice mare talk a little get some friends but I am happy you do not resort to killing. Maybe a little bit of proof of your skills would be appropriate to ensure the guards know you aren't all hot air like most nobles." Dark Tactics said as she got up. So not insane at all. But somepony thinking ahead. And clever way to dangerous as I suspected. But let's hope he takes the bait to show some of his skills. Dark tactics thought. "Believe me there is nothing I'd wish more then to be able to rest miss Dark but you know how that goes. And I understand you want to see what I can do. You're a guard of course a strange anonymous stallion would set off your alarm bells. Now normally I would only show most of my cards to the princesses and these two lovely mares guarding me. But I must tell you I am a civilian not a soldier. I mean it's kind of laughable that nobility can take a military command under certain situations but don't worry I would be let down if your troops would simply obey every noble because of their position." Henry said laughing Midnight fought the urge to facehoof. Did you have to point it out Blueblood. She'll only see you as more worrisome and you don't act like a normal stallion. Midnight thought worryingly Spellslinger had to fight the urge not to pull Blueblood away for his own safety What are you thinking Blueblood. You're only making your situation worse. Having somepony like Dark Tactics being wary of you. Spellslinger thought. "A civilian well I wouldn't have guessed. But atleast your upfront about the things you can say but I wonder why would you bluntly say you expect them not to follow every order?"Dark tactics said questioning the stallion's motives. A civilian that gets under ponies their skin and tries to think like them and about the situation with pride and skills that proves they think they can deal with others easily. Is this stallion pulling my tail. This stallion makes no sense at all. Atleast he is honestly desiring to rest but I don't think his definition of rest is going home raising foals or working in a garden like most stallions. Dark thought. "Well quite alot of knowledge miss Dark. Not first hand knowledge. But considering Equestria it's normal peaceful history it might seem slightly weird but one little pearl of wisdom I got out of a book would be Think for yourself, not all instructions are meant to be obeyed. " Henry said smiling. Good old Sun Tzu did word it differently but I don't think quoting the Art of war to ponies would be useful at all. Henry thought as he suddenly pondered if ponies would still be using legion warfare tactics. He slaps himself to make him stop thinking of such things. "Are you alright Mister Regent?" Dark tactics asked as she noticed the strange stallion slap himself. I can imagine situations where his pearl of wisdom as he puts it would be the best approach but why did the stallion slap himself. And why would he call it a little pearl of wisdom. Dark tactics thought "I am alright sorry my mind started to wander. My apologies. " Henry calmly stated. "Wander about what?" Dark Tactics asked. "I'm not sure you want to know that Miss Dark Tactics. The Regent tends to leave ponies somewhat confused or baffled." Midnight said calmly. So Blueblood not only knows about healing and biology but also has some knowledge about war or the military. Now that is interesting and terrifying if it is as self proclaimed basic as his medical knowledge. Maybe He should have a spar with the Lunar guard. Midnight thought Spellslinger just smiled a worrying smile as she recognized the similarity between this situation and the healing incident. Blueblood can you not bumble into something and peek someponies interest. You are going to make our job harder like this. Spellslinger thought. "Well now I am even more curious what you ponder about mister Regent?" Dark said surprised by the response of the two guards around Henry. So something happened before quite interesting. Nothing bad if him being here and having the Princesses their support says anything about it. I wonder what. Dark tactics thought. "Just pondering military tactics if the guards still use the Legion Warfare approach of numberical superiority. But I can't continue on about that I rather not be dragged to the Princesses for sharing information I am not allowed to. Especially after the great amount of trust they've shown in me. Honestly I think they should be the ones to approve any discussion revolving military and warfare considering the nature of the subject and waves it could make. Sorry miss Dark if that isn't the answer you hoped for. I'd gladly teach you but my hooves are tied." Henry said apologetically.Sorry nope I am not risking my skin for this nope. If you want my guidance or views on the matter get permission first. Henry thought. "I understand. Your situation must be very tricky. Well let's go you were going to show what you can do to the guards. As for our tactical approach you will see." Dark said as she got up from behind her desk and smiled.Atleast he is loyal to the princesses. I still hope to find out more. Guess I'll have to write a request to the Princesses. But he said he'd gladly teach I wonder if I could use that against him. He has been upfront about what he can share from what I've seen. Still if he knows alternatives to numberical superiority or legion approach as he calls we will need it. Dark thought as she planned on a way to get some information out of him. Henry got out of his chair aswell. "It will be a good warm up for me aswell haven't sparred in a while so will it be one versus one or will they work as a group?" Henry asked calmly as his pupils turned small and focused like a predator once more but not to intimidate. With his smile and calm body language it showed anticipation. "Hahaha. What's wrong did you get a little rusty and want to shake it off?"Dark commented playfully.Hmm so he is rusty. That is good means he should be used to the friendly and calm normal approach of fellow ponies but I might have to poke a little bit rougher at him to ensure it feels genuine considering his behaviour he should be used to more mareish treatment. And him being comfortable means I can learn more maybe ensure he'll stay docile and remain to want rest because those eyes from before are scary focused and strange, Unatural even. Dark tactics thought. "Well sort of yes. But don't worry I'm quick to adapt and shake the rust off." Henry said smiling as he got a playful tap from Dark as she lead him out of her office.Well not rusty more of new quadruple form of movement but I think the same principles of shifting ones Ballance using once own momentum against them will be useful. Maybe using telekenises both to alter temperature or other creative means would make up for it. Henry thought calmly. "Well we might be able to kick that rust off." Dark tactics said as they exited her office both Henry and his guard mares noticed that they were at the centre of attention after their little entrance from before and they how jovial Henry and Dark were acting towards eachother didn't make that attention lessen. "Alright. This is going to be fun so just sparring nothing lethal. Any rules I should be aware of? I would put it above habits considering the Solar guard lack of skills that they have a hole lot of limitations in place during sparring or training. Since they are more like foals playing with spears and seem to be used to create the illusion of a organized standing army." Henry said calmly but suddenly both Dark Tactics and some nearby Lunar guards could not help but laugh at the obvious remark. Wait did Blueblood just say that. I mean a lot of Thestrals and historians think it but still it's not something somepony would say so bluntly. Hmm I'll put this under the weird knowledge that came with his incident. But does he really think he can fight. Did knowledge like that came along too. What is rusty if I compare the medical knowledge he have Tender Care as basic. Midnight thought worrying the realization sinking in that just as he did with the solar guards before that he might make a display of the Lunar guards aswell. Blueblood you shouldn't fight I don't want you to get hurt or hurt anypony. I understand that you want to proof yourself but this is going a bit to far you should be resting recuperating not planning to fight Spellslinger thought but sighed "Well just the basic rules no permanent harm which normally isn't an issue training. Let's see staying within the designated sparring area but since you are a unicorn and most Lunar guards are Thestrals that range is mostly large. And of course no hurt feelings or vendettas afterward." Dark Tactics listed off. "Alright got it now let's see what your troops can do." Henry stated. A Thestral in Lunar guard armour stepped to Henry and Tactics. "Am I hearing that right Ma'am are we going to spar with him?" The female Lunar guard said with glee. "That is right Since you're so eager Swift Strike. Why don't you go first. Show him what one of my best trained can do." Dark Tactics said smiling "unless the rusty regent needs to warm up first?" Dark said turning to Henry. "Oh no I'm alright so lets take this outside sounds like fun. But a little warning Swift. I won't fight normally but I'll be honest you might need to visit Tender Care so no holding back alright." Henry said with a smile this caused Swift Strike to smile back. Dark was worried when she heard Henry statementWell let's hope it won't become to bad. Spellslinger whispered to Midnight "Aren't we going to stop him? He could get hurt." Midnight replied "I'm more worried about Swift Strike. I mean if his medical knowledge was basic by his strange standards what will his combat methods for civilian be then either he will make another spectacle or He will lose some of his pride."Midnight whispered back as she noticed Swift and Henry to the outer training yard of the Lunar barracks being followed by a entourage of onlookers. What followed left Everypony stumped. Though Henry seemed to use his magic to support bipedal fighting stances at first using telekenises like a crutch getting Swift Strike of guard he was winning. Standing unnaturally on his hind hooves using magic to support himself and his back in case while using bipedal fighting techniques simple hitting with his front hooves putting his weight behind it never understanding why Equestrian pony limbs can bend both ways or how hooves could grab Swift Strike as she rushed at him. It was useful for using her momentum against her and the little brawl was enjoyable though he held back not wanting to hurt the mare but after multiple attempts on the ground from Swift Strike halted after being fended of or swung aside. Swift strike was getting annoyed by not being able to beat a stallion who claimed that he was rusty but she recalled he wouldn't go easy on her so she switched to use air superiority. She used the air to gain more momentum and dive at him which didn't go to well but she could easily spread her wings to regain height for another attempt even as he tried to turn her momentum against her. The flying attacks halted when Henry his horn glowed and golden aura surrounded air where later a small tornado formed. This caused the Lunar guard to look in shock while Henry just smiled. Swift strike who had at multiple times hit the dirt from ground based fighting and thought air superiority would be her advantage after being flung around and having her own momentum used against her too many times. this time she just looked at Henry's big smile as she got dragged into the small tornado and got flung to the ground before the tornado vanished in another show of the golden aura which left a cold chill and strangely some small ice forming behind but effectively stopping the strange unplanned weather phonomena. "Wow aerodynamics are the same never thought of using magic like this but still quite fun.The size of wings proportionate to the equine species made me think that it might be different. Must be a magic thing." Henry stuck in his little world. "What the buck was that?" Swift Strike said as she got up getting the dirt of her uniform while the others still looked on in disbelief that the Thestral didn't just tame the weather Henry strangely conjured up. "Uhm what do you mean?" Henry said snapping to reality. "You know what I mean. First your strange fighting stances that would make sense for a diamond dog or other bipedal while being surrounded in your magic glow and then the strange weather I couldn't tame. I know you wanted to go all our but you lied about being rusty." Swift said accusingly. "What do you mean you couldn't tame it don't pegassi and Thestrals have the ability to affect the weather. It was just a simple natural tornado. And I didn't lie." Henry stated. "There was nothing natural about it. It was creepy and untamable how you could you make it and controll it? I'm a Thestral and even if I'm not one of those weather ponies I'm very sure they wouldn't be able to tame it. You did lie no pony who is rusty fights like that" Swift replied before stepping closer to Henry trying to get a sneak attack in thinking the Stallion is playing with her. Henry started to ponder and was caught of guard by a fast Thestral charging at him. In the spur of the moment the ground Infront of the Thestral glowed in a golden magical aura before a lair of ice formed over it making Swift Strike slip on by Henry. "Now that isn't fair. I was thinking why you couldn't control it and you broke my concentration. Still thanks for the warm up for sparring." Henry stated calmly still not showing any sign of exhaustion or sweat at all why the Thestral mare was sweating and covered in dirt. Everypony was still looking at Henry in disbelief. Midnight just laughed at the situation as she suddenly understood the amassment from Spellslinger. As she noticed something she could relate too. Instead of the principles of magic here she saw Henry fight holding his own against somepony that by Equestrian standards was a good soldier being outmanoeuvred by unexpected tactics and fighting styles. Hmm it seems Blueblood is doing good. But didn't he say he was rusty and that he thinks Spellslinger and I were better at combat. Maybe his memories being messed up by the poison made him expect better I shouldn't let him realize this who knows what it would do to the poor stallion. Midnight thought as she suddenly had a quite an embarrassing fantasy where Blueblood would rescue or fight beside her. Her cheeks turned crimson and she quickly willed her wings down after she noticed her day dreaming caused them to rise. Spellslinger just facehooved at the situation. Blueblood I understand you gained certain knowledge but do you have to make it so clear. He said the poison induced memories were from a place that doesn't sound to friendly to ponies. Maybe I can help him a little. He did say not everypony there was kind so that's a good excuse. Spellslinger thought and she calmly spoke "Regent you shouldn't be putting ponies on par with your cruel teachers. You have gotten so use to their mindset and basic fighting that you forgot to look into the Equestrian combat methods and quality didn't you?" Spellslinger said with an innocent smile. Midnight caught on to the charade and smirked and laughed. Henry noticed everypony was staring at him and quickly fell to the natural quadruple stance for ponies before facehooving. "I did it again didn't I?" He blurted out. Hmm maybe I should salvage this weird situation. Uhm yes stern a kind teacher routine trying to educate them would be best to salvage this situation. I hope my aunties will forgive me for sharing a tid bit of knowledge. Still thanks for the save Spellslinger you don't know how much it means to me. But there was truth in her words. I mean Equestria might have magic and mythical beings but humans by all intents and purposes are a race who's history is filled with conflict. Our entire existence has mostly be driven by persistence, will and endurance. Our science and knowledge formed to overcome hurdles be it advancement of war or our own living situation.Henry thought unaware that the Princesses were looking at him from a distance through a window in Luna her private room within the castle while Cadence was looking at the display at a distance as she trotted towards the training grounds. Dark Tactics looked terrified at the current predicament. If his teachers were cruel and he is rusty and Civilian by their standards seeing what happened untill now as a warm-up for sparring we'd be bucked by what his teachers see as warfare. I need more information and I'll need to bring this up with the Princesses immediately. Dark Tactics thought worryingly. Swift strike stopped her attempts at Henry but slowly trotted to him. "If you see what we did as warmups could you maybe give me some pointers sir." She said saluting having a new found respect for the Strange unicorn. "I was already thinking of it but I need to know the others their skill too and your combined battle tactics if you have those because simple rush with numbers or brute force methods using dives and speed are useless against somepony using their head. But I do not have enough time to train you all because of a mission for which I needed soldiers." Henry stated bluntly. Dark tactics her pride got hurt as she heard Henry his words.This is bad. I should try and make sure everypony isn't too broken by his words Dark thought but before she could say something to lift up the spirit of her troop Swift Strike spoke. "Yes sir. I'm sorry for us not being what you expected sir but legion warfare is the most common approach." Swift Strike said apologetically. Her aswell as many other Lunar Guards all had saddened and let down body language their eyes similar to sad puppies. Henry felt his heart break. He felt as if he just kicked a bunch of puppies. A bunch of furry bat winged puppies but still. "Now now. It isn't that you lack strength but you lack execution and tactics. Honestly if I hadn't been drilled by one teacher to use a enemies force against by taking them of balance or incase of being at a disadvantage to turn a situation to my hoof I wouldn't have won. I should have expected it. My teachers have been where your tactics are now a few centuries ago. I guess they rubbed of on me. But don't ever think you are lacking in any way. You have a close kinship, I noticed it when you thought I was taught by Thestrals. Such kinship is something to be proud of. It shows a form of brotherhood and honour that deserves to be recognised." He said in a kind soft-spoken tone. Not that I'd call their approach true legion warfare then again they probably got tactics that they don't use or have forgotten over the centuries of peace. Henry thought. The Lunar guard perked up and showed some pride at Henry his comment. Cadence got closer to the Guards and heard Henry his little speech but when she looked at the stallion something felt strange and wrong to her so she waited and observed. Swift strike "Thank you sir but didn't your teachers have the same bonds?" She asked calmly "No not anymore their warfare evolved. Their chivilary and unity are different degraded. It still exist but not so profoundly and they have gotten desensitized from many things. Which is why I'm proud of you. Your sense of community also seems stronger." As he said this he felt Cadence her eyes borrowing onto him from a distance. "For now train to think on your feet with each other. Use your personal talents and advantages and try and make a combined strategy based on it. And do not be afraid to use racial advantages of your fellow guards. Example the unicorns can do more then just charge but has the flexibility of magic to their disposal, Thestrals have wheater manipulation use it and if you have bat like properties and night vision or echo location use them. I'd even advice abusing sound to disarm foes so why don't you practice this as a group against eachother in small teams. Now I've got a visitor that I need to talk to privately. I'll be back soon and will give pointers and advice then dismissed!" Henry said calmly trotting towards Cadence. Dark tactics was smiling at the eagerness of Henry to teach but worried about the statements surrounding his teachers. But as she gazed to her fellow Lunar guard their smiles and drive to take what the stallion said to heart she could only smile and went to help them with their training. Cadence was looking nervous. As through her emotion sensitive magic she sensed love strong as a inferno but also other emotions way above what was normal for a pony and she was slightly shaking as the pony no whatever it was. Was trotting towards her. She quickly appeared to be her normal self as the strange stallion got closer then she noticed something else a weaker surge of emotions from somepony else within the inferno. It was being sheltered nourished by it.What the Buck is going on this isn't blue blood. Why are there two sources of emotions in one body? Is the weaker one Blue Blood? She thought worryingly. "Princess Mi Amore Cadenza I thought I'd see you can we talk privately. I'd rather not cause a scene and I'm sure you'd only come here after meeting the other princesses considering the situation. So could you teleport us somewhere of your choosing that is private, I'm sure you've got many questions and I'd rather not break my current anonymity. If teleportation doesn't work maybe a privacy spell if those things exist " Henry said calmly. Cadence looked confused at the strange stallion who's emotions were still more powerfully radiating around it. As the Princess of love she was more atuned to the kind and loving emotions and she sensed some aimed towards her not the romantic type but just kind appreciative love which confused her more untill a voice snapped her out of it. "Hello? Earth to alicorn of love? Are you there?" Henry said jokingly trying to snap her out of her confusion making her cast shield around them which wasn't transparent. "Wow no transparency that's unexpected?" Henry commented. "You did ask for a privacy spell now I do have a few questions. What are you? Who are you? What have you done to Blueblood? What is Earth?" Cadence asked sternly as she did so she could notice the notice the confusion on Henry his face but then she noticed it loving and caring emotions coming from Henry not akin to that of a lover but that of a friend combined strangely with nervousness and some sadness. Henry nervously looked at Cadence "You asked what I am. That is question is unexpected. I wonder if it has to do with your specific talent but anyway fine. I am or was a homo sapien, I'm not going to use other terminology to identify species. As to who I am sorry I don't know if naming magic is a thing or not it's better to play it safe. And the better question is what Blueblood did to me if this isn't happening all in my head honestly it doesn't matter. As for Earth well she has many names Gaia, Sol 3 it's well where I come from quite similar to Equis but well no magic and the only sentient beings are well homo sapiens." Henry said with a defeated sigh thinking of home. Cadence her horn glowed as she pointed it to Henry threateningly "homo what now? You better start giving me answers. What would Blueblood have done to you? Why would you think this is all happening in your head and if earth is your home why don't you go back and undo what you are doing to Blueblood right now." Cadence said threateningly. "Tell me princess Cadence, you've foal sat Twily right? She must have enjoyed books and tales right some impossible for foal entertainment or to take lessons out of. Imagine if you were to one calm afternoon after work fell asleep to meet one character you so utterly dispise aware of the fact you are dreaming and attempted to will them away to only find yourself ripped from your home and awaken as said character." Henry said sadness in his eyes. "Only to later find out you share his attachments and a part of them still remains within your or well their mind. Memories and sometimes even conversing with them or your speech changing because of the situation." Henry said solemnly. Cadence felt the frustration and sadness coming from Henry but also some shame. "That's impossible and insane!" She said but when the words left her lips she looked at the stallion. "It's what happened to you isn't it?" Cadence asked apologetically. "Yes either that or I am insane or both. It doesn't really matter. Because I can't return home yet or possibly ever. Because I cant abandon what remains of Blueblood within me since it's foal like and kind. And I can't let him face the backlash of it all be it political or otherwise. I don't have enough information to even know if this is permanent, temporary or if our traits and memories would combine further. But I can't just let a foal face it all nor can I hurt au.... The princesses." Henry replied his voice shaking and breaking under emotional strain. Cadence looked at the emotions swirling around the pony Infront of her and hugged him comfortingly. "You are an idiot. You know that. You should be resting getting to grips with yourself." Cadence said giving the stallion a small smile. Henry laughed a little " I know but I can't. I don't want to dwell about things I need to be busy to distract myself." He replied looking at the direction he knew the Lunar guard's were training at. Cadence made the dome of the privacy spell see through like a one-way mirror. "You care for them don't you? I don't know what you think one pony can do to help them or even the ponies that live in Blueblood his lands. But seeing how both of you care for them I know you aren't a bad pony" Cadence replied giving a soft smile. Henry just smiled seeing the Lunar guard's training taking his advice to heart noticing the few unicorns within it using magic creatively and the guard's together with Dark tactic her advice making strategies. "One pony can light the way for others. So yes I care for them. I would use all I can do both enrich and better the lives of every pony under me. But don't mistake that for me being a good pony. I've made mistakes many during my life. As long as nopony pushes me to far or I don't fall because magic never was in my arsenal before and now it is. I fear how far I can go with it just simple telekinesis combined with knowledge has given me control over temperature of what is within it's grasp and it is scary. Not to mention the healing incident or what other knowledge could lead me to do. I'm happy that Auntie Lulu and Tia promised to act when needed. Because I know my mentality better then anypony in existence. My habit of caring and quickly forming bonds with others is dangerous for I would anything for their happiness and prosperity. It is one of the dangerous instincts I have. There in lies the reason I try not to dwell to much on my predicament for I could fall into a spiral of self induced sadness by speculation and theories around my current predicament. But the bonds are a double edged sword, say somepony would harm or even kill one of those I care for well. Let's just say Quod nocet, saepe docet.. And the lesson to those who would harm those I care for will be one that would shake your beliefs in me." He said solemnly as his smile faded. Cadence booped Henry his snout causing him to look cross eyed and laugh at the strange sensation. " Then get your head out of the dump you cranky donkey. You can't help them like that. And talk to somepony when you can." She said kindly trying to cheer up the stallion. He cares for them. He needs somepony to help him. I can't just let somepony in his state alone. I should also asks the Princesses what he said ment. Cadence thought worrying over Henry his well being. Henry looked at Cadence and sighed "I know but who can I talk to? If I tell our aunties it might hurt them more they don't need that and I think If I start talking about it I'd break down on the spot." Henry replied as he looked at the Lunar guard's training "And they don't need that now. Neither do those who I am responsible for." Cadence slapped Henry with her wing "VladĂ­mir Blueblood! You stubborn mule! You better talk to them and somepony else about it after your little excursion or I will drag you by your tail myself." Cadence replied as if scolding a little foal. He still is the stubborn fool as before. How can he think that the Princesses shouldn't know about what happened just to spare them. I know he cares but he said himself he cares and still calls them aunties. Just what we need an intelligent and stubborn unstable foalish secluded stallion. Cadence thought. Henry stood shaking being talked at like a little foal it stung being called by Blueblood his full name and scolded made him feel like he was a child again being told off. "Yes Niece Cadence." He replied as a cheeky disobedient child Youre not my mother Princess of love. Wait where did that childish thought come from. Henry thought. You should listen to her she just wants to help. a little colt voice echoed in Henry his head. "I mean it Blueblood, if you plan on acting like a stubborn foal I'm going to treat you like one!" Cadence said sternly making Henry reminisce about a stern kindergarten teacher he had but he was to distracted by coltish voice within his mind. Now you are talking to me, also is it your fault I'm thinking so childish. Are you affecting my mentality again I'm not thinking in pony terms again right. Henry thought before he spoke "Sorry Cady I've got the coltish voice in my head again. I'm even outnumbered in my own mind yay." He replied sarcastically. Oh stop being such a worrywart. And listen to niece Cady. I know you have a lot on your plate but you should stop worrying about things you can't change older me. I mean I don't blame you for what happened to us and you seem like a nice stallion. I don't know why you like our guards though. But still just do your best and please be open to somepony it's really strange to talk to somepony in your head you know. The little colt voice echoed in Henry his head. "Not the foal too fine. I will try I'm still against the hole being to open up to anypony idea" Henry grunted out loud but when he noticed he said it out loud in exasperation he facehooved. Cadence looked at Henry with a knowing smile. " If you don't the foalish voice will bring it up again won't he?" She asked while still having that knowing smile. "I know he will. And Cadence don't you have better things to do then act like my old foalsitter. I'd say go to Shinning Armour have a date." Henry replied sounding like a grumpy old stallion. Maybe getting her to pay attention to Shiny will keep her out of my mane for a while. Honestly she may mean well but I don't need a babysitter. Henry thought as he sighed deeply. "Oh no you don't Blueblood. Don't try distract me now tell me why the enchanted armour? What are you planning?" Cadence asked like a foalsitter asking a little foal what mischief they were planning. Henry sighs "Armour is to hide my identity so I can try and manipulate both sides of the Diplomatic conflict that caused Blueblood to become what he was. As for my plans it's really simple explain basic tactics and creative uses of the Lunar guard's their abilities. Not that they will be ready for the plan tonight but it will make simple social manipulation easier. That's why the fabricated regent exists." Henry said before he got interrupted. "Blueblood!" Cadence said loudly in a disapproving tone. "Cadence, it isn't to act badly seriously. Just to ensure unity and cooperation against common mismanagement and corruption and then combine it with well using my own bits to rebuild and revitalise my lands. Maybe share a bit of knowledge see how it correlates with magic. Ensuring growth to create a company so I can both fight a political and economic war in the shadows disarming and undermining those who would threaten Equestria and my aunties." Henry quickly explained. "Wait. What? Why?" Cadence asked confused to the approach. "Quite simple really. There will be opposition from other nobles especially those who had a hoof in my uhm previous upbringing into a unkind arrogant waste of space. So the best approach would be to make a economic power house with a good reputation by aiding others or advancing existing methods. Which obviously will be held under close control. This stacks the odds in my favour. As to how I came to this idea the healing incident brought this to my attention. And when playing a game like politics or leading others the best way is to play an entirely different game getting our adversaries completely off guard." Henry calmly stated trying to explain it to Cadence. "So you are making a trap. But why would you teach anypony?"Cadence asked. Henry smiled" Because I have foresight. I've read the tale that would have happened to the end. And I can try to better everyone's situation but there are things I will not interfere with. Sorry in advance for that. But a leader must make difficult decisions. And it's literally stamped on my flank." He said smiling. "Ooh but? Why are you sorry then? Is something bad going to happen?" Cadence asked nervously. "There will be trails and tribulations that certain ponies will learn from. I will try and help where I can but sometimes I simply won't be able to and that's why I'm sorry. That's considering I will not lose myself or that this situation is not temporary. But even if I'd lose my mind and the foalish remnant of Blueblood will all be that remains I will ensure that one they are protected and not manipulated by others while ensuring the groundwork and knowledge for Equestria and it's allies betterment remain. As I have a duty." Henry stated calmly. "You really aim high don't you? Even thinking of the worst that could happen to prepare. But I know you care and love others if you won't prevent them making mistakes so they can learn themselves. Even if you want to help." Cadence said with a sombre smile "Yeah well I better get going Cady I have a lot of work to do and I sadly can't include you in in my plans yet.No offense but I don't know when I precisely am in the timetable of the tale so I'm rushed." Henry said stepping to the each of the bubble shield. "Ok just find somepony anypony alright. And if I can help tell me please." Cadence said softly.Why can't I help him. Now I shouldn't push him he already is reclusive and hasn't talked to anypony about it except the Princesses and his guard's in detail. He is like a timid foal out of his element. I should wait. Even if he is confused and troubled he still feels Blueblood attachments and the bit of Blueblood that is left seems to be pushing him to open up and accept what happens and enjoy his new life. So in the end he is still family. Cadence thought as she removed the shield bubble. "Don't worry I will. Bye Cadence I got work to do." Henry said trotting towards the Lunar guards that were training. "Good luck Regent!" She shouted encouragingly. I hope you know what you're doing. Cadence thought worryingly as she saw Henry trot towards the Lunar guards.