Five years of Ice, A thousand years of Flame

by Lucky424

Rating: teen
Tags: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Romance, Princess Luna, Original Character, Comedy, Cutie Mark Crusaders, Random, Adventure, Princess Celestia, Sex, Human, Main 6, Gore
Length: 102886

I went under for five years waiting for a cure. Something went wrong.

A new disease. Some sort of radiation poisoning, and at the same time, not. The doctors can't help me, not just yet. Into the tube I go. I'll see you in five years, my wonderful Sarah. I love you.

One last ship. A single set of coordinates. I have no idea where they will take me, but there isn't anything else left for me here. Although, the 'Magic of Friendship' is a strange name for a space ship. I'm changing that to the 'Millennium Falcon' the first chance I get!
(As before, rated teen and gore, due to the fact I swear. A lot. You know, in case you didn't notice! And gore, because I'm not even sure where I'm going with this one!)

New tag! Yeah, not sure if it counts, but chapter 14 gets a bit more descriptive than I usually do.

Also, there is an alternate chapter to a later one/ one shot as a separate story.

Now with a sequel!

Published 2013-05-24 16:10:01 UTC
Last updated 2013-07-13 07:46:45 UTC

Chapter 1: Reignite.

As I lay back into the tube, one of the medical staff leant over me with a syringe in their hand. "This compound is what will slow your body down to a crawl. We'll see you in a few years... and we hope to have a cure by then." The needle pierced my skin and the fluid was put in to my blood stream. The member of staff looked down at me with tears in their eyes. "I'm not supposed to do this but..." They pulled their hood down, revealing a attractive young woman. My fiancée. She leant down to my head and kissed me, before standing back up. "...I'll miss you. Don't worry, I'll be here waiting for you."

I nodded slowly as the drugs started to take effect and the cryo-tube lid slid shut. Not much headway had been made in that respect... but I was desperate. I know everyone has their time, but it felt like mine had come to soon, as if Death was just in the background, pulling a prank on me. The last few years swam by my vision. Getting promoted to corporal, and then to sergeant within the next two years. The night I had ordered my dad around, as he only reached corporal! And that's when I met her. She was sitting quietly in the bar when a couple of guys tried to chat her up. It was clear she didn't want anything to do with them, but they were very insistent.

Now, being a newly appointed sergeant, I was full of confidence... and beer. I walked over to them and put my hand one of the men's shoulder. "Look guys, she's asked you to leave. Why don't you just do it? It's clear she's not interested." I had already anticipated the fist, and easily dodged the first two or three. I didn't, however, anticipate the bar stool that was whacked across my back. I was rolled over and the three men were standing over me, with grins on their faces. There was the sound of tables and chairs moving, and their grins disappeared.

“We'll that was a bad idea, wasn't it?" I recognised the barman's voice. "You've just attacked one of my regulars. And a friend of everyone in here. Not only that, but you know the law, what happens to those that attack soldiers in their own country. You guys are going away for a long time."

"Oh really?", one of them sneered as he pulled out a pistol. The crowd backed away a little, but stood their ground. The man pointed his pistol at the woman still sitting down. As he took the safety off, I leapt up at him and we smashed through a window. A gunshot rang out, and he took off down the street. My friends gathered around me with lots of towels in their hands. And then everything went black.

“My dearest sister, have you come to finally give me what I deserve?” The dark alicorn was sat upon her throne in Canterlot Castle, where she had decided to take up residence. The white alicorn that had just entered stood staring at her.

“No, I have not. Please Luna, end this madness!”

“My name is no longer 'Luna', and you are NOT MY SISTER!!!” At the dark alicorn's shout, Celestia was thrown back against the doors, and slumped to the ground. “I am Nightmare Moon, and you will do nothing to harm me! You care for this body too much, but not for the one who it belongs to!”

“I am sorry Luna, but you have left me no choice.” There was a flash from her horn and six pieces of gold were wrapped around her neck. “You have one last chance. Will you stop this?”

“No.”

“Very well.” A beam of rainbow light shot out and encapsulated the mare, the room being filled with her screams. The light finally subsided, leaving just the white alicorn standing, her main and tail hanging limply to the floor. “I'm sorry Luna, it had to be done.” As the tears started falling, she found herself pulled in to an embrace, and looked up to see her current captain of the guard.

I came to a few days later in hospital, and as I went to roll over I screamed out in pain. Looking down I saw a bandage to the left of my chest, covering the lower part of my lung. My scream had awakened someone in the room, and I cautiously turned the other way to see who it was. It was her. "Hey, you're awake. I'm glad to see that. I just want to thank you, for saving me from those men. Would... you like to know what happened to them?" I nodded my head. There was something trustful about this woman, even if I didn't know her name. "The two that were still inside the pub were... 'entertained' by your friends. The one who shot you is currently in a hostage situation. Hey, what do you think you are doing?"

I swung my legs of the bed, and started to stand up, but almost fell to the floor. She was instantly at my side, pushing me back on to the bed. "Hey, you stay in bed mister! I just so happen to be a nurse at this hospital, so if I have to get restraints on you, I bloody well will! Don't worry about him, I overheard you friends talking to some of you bosses. Apparently, the 'Saturday and Sunday' soldiers are about to go in. Whatever that means. Now you need your rest." My covers were pulled back over me and she tucked them in, before heading to the door. "I'm going to get you some food, and you'd best be in bed when I come back!” I opened my mouth to say something, but she just shook her head. “By the way, my name is Sarah.”

The memories disappeared, and my vision began to blur. I could feel my body getting colder. The guy that had shot me five years previously had used modified rounds, with some sort of radioactive isotope. The doctors had said that it should have cleared up either on it's own, or with a little chemotherapy. Well, that didn't work. And here I am, with the worlds only know case of this disease. It's not radiation poisoning, but they're not sure what it is, which is why I'm in this tube. They reckon it could take five years to figure something out, but I don't have that long.

There was a small display on the inside of the tube, with red numbers streaming across it and counting down. 'One thousand, eight hundred and twenty five days, twenty three hours, forty seven minutes, seventeen seconds.' How long I was going to be in here. I saw Sarah put her hand on the casing, and I tried to move mine to meet it, but they were restrained for safety. There was a biting sensation and everything went black.

The dark alicorn was standing on the throne dais of her old castle, one that she had not seen for a thousand years, staring down at the six mares who had confronted her. “You still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work!”

The lavender mare at the front look around at the others. “But it did! A different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all... are my friends! You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: the element of... magic!

For the second time, Nightmare Moon was attacked by a beam of rainbow light, and she again found herself screaming, but not at her failure, because her grip on Luna was being severed. And she would become nothing.

It felt like thousands of ants were biting me, my skin tingling all over. The next think I know there is a bright patch in my vision. They're thawing me out already? Five years? Felt like five seconds! Water started to pool on the bottom of the tube, getting warmer as it made it's way up my body. By the time it reached my neck, I could move around, almost swim in it. I waited for the hatch to open, but nothing happened, so I looked for the emergency manual release, and pulled it. The water drained away and I felt the tube go to around a sixty degree incline. The doors then popped open, and I opened my eyes, expecting to see a medical team, and a very special nurse.

There was no one. It was very dark, but the windows were letting in a little light. I clambered out of the tube, very wobbly, and went towards the wardrobe where my clothes were. On the way over I tripped on something, and I felt something akin to a stick break as I hit the floor. Reaching down, I pulled the stick towards me, and once I saw what it was, I dropped it in horror. It was a bone. A human bone. I scrambled away and bumped into the side. Something rolled off, and I picked it up, rewarded with a torch.

I turned it on and slowly made my way back over to the body. It was a member of medical staff, but there in their coat, was three holes, surrounded by brown stains. “What the hell happened here?” I rolled them over and grabbed the ID tag. “Who have we got here? Dr S. Hunt huh? Sorry I couldn't help you.” I then looked at the picture. “No... no... no!” I pulled the tattered remains of the shirt away, and hanging around the neck were a set of dog tags. I pulled them away and looked them over to make sure. “Sgt Luckes, Eleventh June, nineteen eighty six. Oh god Sarah, what happened? Why?”

I turned to a beeping noise from the side, and saw a computer running. I was still alive, so it meant there was power still. I flicked on the screen and used it to find the light switch. I wish I didn't. There were bodies every where, and the walls were covered in holes of varying sizes. Turning back to the computer, there was only one file on there, so I clicked on that. Sarah appeared, covered in dust and grime. And blood.

“Alec, if you're watching this, then things went very, very wrong. The world started to fall apart after you went to sleep. Turns out the fossil fuels levels were lower then they were telling us. We ran out. For the first two years, the world came together trying to sort the problem out, and were making good headway. Then, two months ago, a navy ship in patrol in the Atlantic called in with a message that there was a unknown and massive fleet out there. Before they could give numbers, the signal dropped off. Every available asset was sent there, but less than a tenth returned.”

“We still don't know what's going on outside, but we are quite safe here. For now at least. We haven't had a resupply run for two days now. The military are usually on time, but something isn't sitting right. I also wish to let you know that we are close, so close to finding a cure. The computer's running simulations. If you are on your own when you see this, two more files will open. One will be a guide to mix the cure yourself, and the other will be a clock to see how long you had to wait for.”

I could hear the sounds of fighting, and Sarah looked up worryingly. “I have encrypted this computer to only activate to your voice once I speak a certain pass phrase. But I hope that in just a few short years, you can hold me in your arms again, looking out over the coast from our balcony. Just don't try to sing that song again, leave it to the professionals!” She giggled a little and then went back to being serious. “I've got my doctorate, so I am now the one in charge of the project. This way I can ensu... Jenna, what's going on?” I could hear shouting in a different language, and then Sarah was pulled from her chair by a masked man, and put on her knees. I could see her colleagues in the same positions around the room. A man walked up behind her, a AK in his arms. He started to speak in very broken English.

“Any last words?”

Sarah looked at the camera and I saw her grip my tags in one hand. “I love you, Alec.” The screen went dark, but I still heard three shorts ring out. The file closed down, and two more programs started to run. The first one was a clock, but I took no notice of it. Right now, my priority was the cure. I read the instructions and started to gather the chemicals from the drawers. The sound of movement caught my ears, and I noticed one of the skeletons had a knife in it's chest. There was another one next to it, with an AK in it's hand. I knelt down next to it and rolled it over. There were a set of tags on it as well, but these ones had not stood the test of time. “Cpt Dix... Sevent... Ju...nineteen eig..y s.x... I'm sorry Simon, but thanks for being there at the end.”

I picked up the rifle and hid around the corner. The sounds of a vehicle came through the door, and stopped moving. I could hear an artificial voice. “Oh! What happened in here? The tube is open? About time! Now, I wonder where he is?” I came out of cover and raised the rifle up, taking a shot at the vehicle. The top of it spun round and leant down to inspect the damage. There wasn't any. A barrel appeared on top. “You shot me! Time to shoot you! Come in to the light!” Well, might as well get it over with. I walked out and saw that it was in fact some sort of robot. Two glowing blue orbs widened, and the barrel disappeared. “Sgt Luckes! Quickly, I have to administer the cure!”

“What do you mean, administer the cure?” A panel on the front opened and a syringe appeared on a tray. It was picked up and held out towards me, plunger first.

“I have lost track of how long I have been here, my logs were destroyed. I found this place ages ago, and I knew it would help me fulfil my purpose. I was a soldier drone, but there has not been anyone to fight for years. I do believe you are the last human on Earth.” It started to roll towards me, and flipped the syringe around. “Now please hold still, I must get this right.”

I jumped over the other side of the cryo-tube. “Hold on a minute! Why should I trust an ex soldier drone with a needle?”

“Because I finished it. Dr Hunt was so close, if only she had a little more time. I could not get into her computer, but thankfully she kept all over her notes on paper as well. I studied them and corrected a few errors. They were in a photo album, would you like to see them?”

“No. No, not yet.” I put the rifle down and climbed on to a unoccupied bed. “Very well, do it.”

“Yes sir,” I watched as a drip was inserted perfectly in to my system, and then the robot added the cure. “I must warn you, there may be some side effects associated with the chemicals...” It's voice was slowly lost to me as I slipped away.

It was wonderful. I had never run so fast, or so far, and yet felt like I could carry on going. The strange yellow tint faded away, and I found myself slowing down, coming to a stop. I saw a patch of blood on the ground, and found I could 'see' it's scent. Following at, I came across a small camp fire, and I could hear voices. “It's a good job we had that shotgun, otherwise those wolves would have been the end of us! Let's get him patched up.”

I crept through the bushes till I could see properly. There was a group of around fifteen people milling about. I could see a strange orange glow surround them, and I knew that was what I needed. I spotted a woman away from the group and charged out at her, getting screams from the others. I heard a gun click by the time we hit the ground, with me pinning her. “Get away from her, now!”

I looked up to the man and growled at him, making him back away slightly. The woman under me stopped struggling. “Alec... is that you?” I looked down to see Sarah, and she still had my tags around her neck. “What happened to you?” Before I could try and answer, I heard more footsteps come up, followed by three more guns clicking. I looked up to see four men with shotguns.

“Even if you look like him, he's not in there any more. You have ten seconds to get off her, or we will open fire.” I slowly stood back up, but pulled Sarah with me, putting her between us. “Come on now, just let her go, and you can be on your way.” My ear twitched and I turned just in time to see a fifth man to the side, taking aim. The safety was off and his finger slowly pulled the trigger.

I spun Sarah around, so that the bullets impacted my back and left her alone. It hurt like hell, but I wouldn't harm her. I fell to the floor and saw her looking over me, worry clear on her face. “Alec, stay with us! Hold on please!”

I opened my mouth to say something, but instead I let out what could only be described as a feral roar. A gun barrel was placed in my face, and that was all I needed to act. I leapt to my feet and lashed at the man, sending him flying through the air. I turned my attention to the others and noticed they were moving too slow. Or I was too fast. It didn't matter, they fell one by one until all that was left was Sarah.

“Alec, what happened? Where did you get that speed and strengtughugh.” I could see my own fingers around her throat, lifting her from the ground, and slowly gripping tighter. I could see the panic in her eyes as she realised I wouldn't let go. I was trying to stop, but another part of my, more like an animal then a person was enjoying it... and it was winning. After a few moments, her eyes rolled into their sockets and she went limp. I dropped her to the ground and took off running again. It seemed killing them gave me my strange powers back. After a few hours of running, I again slowed down. I heard another group of people and went to investigate. I stopped when I saw the same camp, the same people, and the same glow. Even Sarah was there. I didn't hesitate this time. I needed that glow to keep going, and they would give it to me. I jumped at the first person and snapped their neck, and I let loose another feral roar... but this time, I enjoyed it.

Twilight approached the god of chaos, sitting on his odd throne in Ponyville town square. “All right, ladies, let's show him what friendship can do!”

“Wait, wait, wait!” Pinkie Pie turned to the side and grabbed a mouthful of chocolate rain, before bounding back in to line and growling at Discord.

He looked up to see the six mares floating in the air. “Huh. What's this?” He pulled down his glasses and his eyes widened as the Elements started working. “No. NO!” The beam of light swirled around him, ending with a flash. As the light melted away, they opened their eyes to see a statue of the draconequus on the ground, and Ponyville back to how it belonged.

I sat up screaming at what I had just done. I lost count of how many times I had attacked Sarah and our friends. That's who the others were. I started to cry. It was because of me in the fucking tube that they stayed. Because of me they died before their time. Death got his victim, it just wasn't me. The sound of machinery drew my attention to the door, where the robot had entered. “I have brought you some supplies. I do not know what you do or do not like, but these are as fresh as you will get.”

“How long?”

“You were unconscious for two days after I gave you the cure, and I am please to say that any sign of the ailment has been completely eradicated.”

I looked at the clock on the computer still ticking. “How long?”

The robot followed my gaze and looked at the screen, it's lights dimming a little. “Eight million, Seven hundred and seventy thousand, three hundred and sixty eight hours, fifty nine minutes, and forty four seconds. Or if you'd prefer, a thousand years, six months, six days, five hours, fifty nine minutes, and forty four seconds. Welcome back to reality. Come on, you are alive... give me a smile!”

Author's Note

Holy hell, another one? Yeah, I know. This is in no way connected to my other stories, but as before, if you have a character you wish to appear, then please just ask.

Updates will be sporadic. Mainly because I'm back doing further engineering training. Fourteen months of maths and science, which I haven't done for ten years! This is all I have so far, and to be honest, I don't know if any more will come. Now, if you want to throw speculation around as to why we developed robot soldiers, why I am the last human on earth (as the robot believes) and where did everyone else go, then please do. I will shoot down one theory now though. No there has not been a nuclear war. No natural disaster. Well, they still happen, just not on that scale.

Now then, who can tell me where I got the idea for those 'dream' abilities from? Anypony?
Oh, and this has not been fully edited, so please point out any mistakes you see. Enjoy.

The chapter title came from this song.

Chapter 3: Awakening

By the time Prince Armour and his contingent arrived, the fireponies were already on scene, and had quenched the main fires, and were working on the smaller ones. Once they were out, he moved forward to the strange object. It was sleek, like it was designed to fly, but one end of it was destroyed beyond repair. Moving around the other side he noticed a hole torn in the strange metal, and saw a massive pile of blood on the ground. Looking around he spotted another patch, and another, heading in the direction of the city.

“Guards, on me!” They all charged to him and saw what was on the ground. “Four of you stay here with the fireponies, the rest with me!” They took off galloping, not sure what they were looking for, but the safety of their city was their main priority. They entered the boundary and heard the screaming right away, seeing ponies running to their homes and sealing them shut.

“You leave me no choice!” They turned in the direction of the shout in time to see a flash from around the corner. As they ran towards the other street, a unicorn guard came flying through the air, unconscious. Two guards went to assist and the others rounded the corner then came to a halt.

There was a massive creature, bipedal, pounding on a crystal pony's house. Crystal from the Crystal Empire was one of the strongest materials known to ponykind... and this thing was almost through, the door being extremely cracked. Shining Armour could hear a family inside, panicking. He charged his horn and shot out a flame spell, watching as the creature stopped all movement as its back was engulfed.

The flames died down and they could see blistering skin, and then it slowly began to change colour, returning to the same shade as the rest of it, leaving no evidence of the spell. It slowly turned and looked at the guards, growling, as they charged their horns. It stopped and sniffed, stopping its gaze on Armour, then let out a thundering roar and ran at them. The unicorns let their spells lose, but it didn't even slow the thing down. They turned and ran to the castle, where they could contain it and get more help.

It didn't take them long to reach the castle, where a line of soldiers were already waiting. They parted to allow Armour and his guards in, where they turned to once again face the creature. It came thudding around the corner and stopped seeing all the ponies before it. They all charged their horns, and the creature began sniffing again, once more picking out Shining Armour, his captain noticing. “Your majesty, you must get inside the castle! It is after you!”

Before anypony could react, Cadence came rushing out. “Shiny, what's going on?”

“I don't know Cadence, but we have to make sure you stay safe. Get back in the castle.” She nodded once and then teleported away. The creature stopped then, looking at where she had been stood, and once more started to sniff the air, looking towards the lower levels of the tower. It let out what could best be described as a satisfied growl, before turning around and walking away. Some of the soldiers went to follow, but were halted in position. “Stop! It wants you to follow it, it will try to divide us! Hold your ground!”

They could hear it growling, and looked round at the different streets anxiously. The growling was getting louder, but they couldn't see it. There was a blur from the roof tops as it leapt from them to behind the line of ponies, swatting the guard captain aside and grabbing the prince around the neck, before dashing in to the castle.

The inside of the Crystal Castle was complete chaos. None of the guards had a chance to attack, as it still had a hold of Prince Armour's neck, and was showing no signs of letting go. The only thing they could do was try and slow it down, sealing the doors to the royal couple's bedchamber, where Princess Cadence had taken refuge. The banging on the doors slowed, then stopped completely. One of the pegasi guards flew out a window to see what was happening on the other side.

It was clear, so he tapped three times on the door, and the guards poured out, looking for any sign of it. As the captain was about to issue their patrol routes, they heard a scream from above. They all galloped to the stairs and darted up them, seeing the creature dragging both Cadence and Armour into their sanctuary, and closing the door behind them. They rushed over to burst in, but they heard things being moved around, and the doors would not open, even for magic. They looked at each other before the captain gave out his orders. “Pegasi, to Canterlot! All of you, we must call for aid, and we can not risk the messenger not making it!”

The selected ponies saluted and rushed towards all available exits, be it windows or doors, and took wing, looping around the tower once and turning to the south. The unicorn guards all turned back to the door. “Be ready for anything! Our duty is to keep them safe!”

Princess Cadence watched as the strange creature pulled their bed over and blocked the door, before turning to look at her. Shining Armour struggled in its grip, sparking his horn and sending a jolt of electricity coursing through its body. It dropped him to the ground as it convulsed, and he ran in front of Cadence, blocking her from the creature. As expected, it stopped moving and stood there as its body healed itself. It then lunged at Armour, who sent another bolt through it, but again it shrugged it off, raising its fore limb and striking him in the face.

He flew through the air and impacted the wall, sliding down it into a heap on the floor, not moving. Cadence was instantly in front of him, horn alight. The creature turned to her and snarled as she let the attack loose, but again with no effect. Its limb came up again, and she felt an impact in her face before everything went black.

Canterlot Castle. A normally serene and pleasant place to visit, even more so when Princesses Celestia and Luna were having their afternoon tea in the gardens. It was a time when guests could see the rulers relax and just be normal ponies, like everypony else. Well, with the exception of the snobby nobility, to which Luna and Discord had a wonderful time pranking, whether night or day court. Today was not one of those days.

There were lines of guards streaming out of the gates, heading to the single train track that would take them to the Crystal Empire. Celestia and Luna were at the front, leaving Princess Sparkle to run things in Canterlot for the time being. The only two ponies alive who had seen the armour they were wearing was the Royal Sisters themselves. It was a sight to behold, and it also struck something unknown into the ponies lining the streets. Fear.

They boarded the train and settled in for the long journey. Even the pegasi were on board, conserving their energy for when they needed it...

Pain was the first thing to register, followed by a really bad headache. Slowly opening her eyes, Cadence saw the moon was now out, meaning she had been unconscious for a few hours. She looked round to see Shining Armour laying down on the other side of the room, a rope around his neck stretching up to the rafters. She groggily got to her hooves and started to walk towards him, but felt a tugging around her own neck, she turned her head and saw a rope attached to her, going to the rafters as well. It allowed her to lie down, but she had only made it a metre from where she was.

She began to gather her magic to release her, but as soon as her horn started to glow the creature appeared from the shadows and pushed her to the floor, at the very limits of the rope. She felt it start to choke her, and she stopped the spell. Once the glow disappeared, the creature got off her and allowed her to move back.

Armour groaned and struggled to his feet, looking over to Cadence and attempting to run over, being stopped short by the rope and pulled backwards, hitting the floor in a coughing fit. “Shiny, don't. It wants to keep us apart for some reason.” He then noticed the creature in the room, instantly lighting his horn. “No, Shiny, don't!” It was too late, the creature lashed out at him again, not as hard and knocked him to the floor. “Let's just see what it wants.”

“But do you know what it is?” The captain looked to Celestia, then back to the door.

“No your highness, I have not seen anything like it before. I don't understand how you can not get inside.” Luna came away from the door, having finished her analysis as to why their magic could not open it.

“'Tis simple, Cadence has put a shield around the room. She has trapped it in there with them. It can not leave, not while she is in there. We will need an proper master of teleportation magic. There is only one mare I know of that could do it, and she could be here very quickly.”

“Luna, I know Twilight is good at it, but from Canterlot to the Crystal Empire? Even as the Bearer of Magic, she does not have that amount of power.”

“I did not mean to say she should. Remember when Fluttershy's rabbit Angel annoyed Spike too much?”

“Indeed I do, and I hope he create flame big enough for it to work...”

Armour and Cadence sank to their haunches, watching the creature watch them. It turned around and picked up a book, dropping it in front of Armour. He just looked at it confused, before shrugging, and flipping it open. The creature growled and slammed it shut, picking it up and dropping it to the floor again. Armour lifted it up in his magic, to which the creature turned away, puling out another book and placing it in front of Cadence, who began to levitate it as well.

The books started to pile up, until Armour dropped his half, not being able to hold that amount. Cadence, however, kept adding more and more. The creature pushed over the books Armour had dropped, and she began to levitate them as well. She smiled as the creature made a new noise, something that was a mix of a growl and a purr. “Don't smile at it, we still don't know what it is going to do to us!”

The creature turned and roared at Armour, showing the it was the alpha in the room, and challenging it would have consequences. Bad ones. Armour lowered his head to show submission, but his gaze never left his wife. He tried one last gamble, a way to see how intelligent this thing was, and to get near his wife. He raised his left foreleg up and pointed to his horn, and the ring that was there. The creature leant over and sniffed, then just growled at him. He then pointed his hoof at Cadence, who brushed her mane aside to show another ring, and then pointed to a picture on the wall.

The creature grabbed a cup from the side instead and held it up to Cadence, who just stared at it. She shrugged once then looked to the creature. It pointed to her horn, then to the cup. She then realised it wanted her magic. She recalled a spell to summon water, one that had a tinge of the caster's magic in it. She called it fourth and poured more magic than water in to the cup. It then placed one in front of Armour, who did the same.

It picked both up and drank them, then put them down in front of both them, asking for a refill. They complied, and the creature only drank Armour's, setting Cadence's down by the bed.

The creature pulled down the picture and stared intently at it for a moment. It was a painting of their first kiss as a married couple, the day of their wedding. The creature growled once and threw the picture out of the window. It got up and pulled out a knife. Armour watched in horror as it grabbed Cadence by the horn and placed the knife by the base. She held her breath as it started to cut, but then let out a scream.

Armour took hold of the knife in his magic, and placed it to the neck of the creature, telling it not to do that again. Instead of backing away, it just gripped it in its limb, and drew it across. Blood started to spurt out as it fell to the floor, crawling out of their view around the bed, where they heard a gurgling sound as it tried to breathe. The saw its foot twitch a few times and then it was still.

Twilight was still recovering from being sent by dragon fire, and this was the fifth time she had ran to ran the plant pot in the corner. A roar from inside drew the attention of all ponies in the corridor. “Well, now my lunch is gone, I think I should get in there. I'll combine it with an invisibility spell, so its shouldn't be long before I get out of there with them.”

They heard Cadence let out a scream and Twilight disappeared in a flash of light.

Armour got the knife and cut Cadence loose, then himself. He rushed over to Cadence and looked at her horn. Thankfully, the cut was not very deep. His horn lit up in the tell tale glow of yellow healing magic, sealing the wound. For couples like them, that area was quite sensitive, and he gave it a quick kiss. Cadence gave a shudder and embraced him. A groan from the other side of the bed drew their attention, and they made their way around it, very cautiously.

I came to expecting to see cracked view screens and other busted electronics, so when I found myself next to a bed, I was a little surprised. I pulled myself up and started coughing, my throat being extremely dry for some reason. I noticed a cup with some liquid in on the side, and gave it a quick sniff. It smelt of blueberries, so I gave a shrug and gulped it down. I heard someone talk to my side, but didn't understand the language, so I turned to face whoever it was. I got a very big surprise. “Who the fuck lets horses inside their rooms?”

They just stared at me wild eyed whilst I stared back at them. A sudden pain behind my eyes caused me to cover them with a hand. I fell to the floor as the pain got even worse. I heard the voices speak again, but I still didn't understand. I rolled around the floor holding my head. “Help!”

Cadence and Armour backed away from the thrashing creature. A moment ago it seemed so different, as if there were two creatures inside fighting for control. It eyes were also different, they weren't so wild, and even looked worried. Now, they showed the emotion of somepony who was very frightened. Then they had warned it not to drink the cup, but it didn't listen, or didn't understand, and now it seemed to be fighting for control. They were so entranced that they didn't notice the flash behind them.

The creature stopped all movement, and they thought it was over, but then it rolled to look at them, its eyes gone from the deep blue they were a moment ago, now a shade of yellow. It stood up to its full height and roared at them, advancing. It stopped and sniffed the air, before turning around. It made its way to the door and seemed to just lose sense of everything. It then flung its right fore limb out, and Twilight appeared flying through the air.

She shot out her wings and stopped her movement, hovering in the air. The creature took an exception at this and tried to snatch her out of the air, but she was agile enough to evade it. It looked around once and jumped at the wall, rebounding off and ending up above her. It fell towards the ground and just managed to get its arm to hit her wings.

They fell to the floor and it reached out to grab her but she teleported away. The creature looked around confused, before spotting Twilight on the other side of the room behind it. It roared again and jumped at her, and she just evaded it the same way. After a few attempts, she ended up next to Cadence and Armour, finding her sister in law pushed against her. “Quick, get Cadence out of here!”

She didn't have time to argue and the mares disappeared in a flash of light. The creature looked around the room for them, but upon finding them missing, turned to Armour and growled. The door burst open and the guards flowed in. “Stand down!” The guards all stopped moving and backed away a little. “Hey big guy, have some of this.” A cup was floated over, and he filled it with some of his magic, sending it to the creature. As it took a drink, he leant to his side and spoke to the captain. “How deep is the mine?”

“Deep enough, sir. There's no way it can get out of there.”

“Good. Clear me a path straight there, I'm going to lure him down.”

“Yes sir!” The captain saluted and ran out the room, issuing orders to the other guards. Armour remained behind, keeping an eye on it. He gave it a few minutes and then pulled the cup away, earning a warning growl. He refilled it and floated it back over, but slightly closer to himself. As he hoped, the creature stepped forward, grasping for the cup. He led it out of the room, past the shocked princesses, and towards the stairs. The creature jumped down them and ended up in front of him. He gave the cup to the creature who just took hold of it. He carried on walking, seeing the creature still following. They made it to the mine and Armour heard a growl from behind him, and turned to see the creature holding out the cup. He floated it over and refilled it, but held it near the edge of a spacious mine shaft. The creature leapt forward to the cup, but didn't see the hole. It missed the edge and fell into it.

Armour collapsed to the floor, utterly exhausted.

Four days. For four days there was the sound of feral roaring coming from the mine shaft. It didn't even sleep. It just kept trying to get out. It would always climb a different way, but the unicorns had made a whole section of the shaft smooth, and it just couldn't get a grip, falling to the floor each time. It stayed down for a while after each fall, and its recovery time increased after every attempt. Shining Armour was stood on the edge with the guard captain. “So, how long has it been out this time?”

“A little over an hour, sir. It should wake up in a few minutes if we have it worked out right.” The echo of growling came up the shaft. “There's our boy, never under for long.” They cast illumination spells in to the shaft, seeing it once more climbing up the side. But something was different. It was looking carefully at the smooth section. It got just below it, and instead of jumping straight up, jumped across the other side of the shaft, pushing against it and still getting higher.

Its trajectory started to drop again, but it just managed to get a hold above the smooth section, and began pulling itself up. Armour and the captain panicked as it climbed even faster now. They sent bolts of electricity at it, trying to slow it down or force it back to the bottom of the shaft, but they couldn't hit it. They moved back in to the tunnel as it crested the edge and came after them. They turned down a corner and Armour stopped, reading his horn.

The creature bounded around the corner on all fours, spotting the prince, and leaping for him. Armour waited till he saw the yellow of his eyes, and sent out a powerful shield spell, sending it in to the wall. Once he cancelled the spell, the creature dropped to the floor. Armour stood still, waiting for it to move. After a few moments it stirred, raising itself up. It coughed a little and spat blood on the floor. It looked up at Armour, the eyes returned to the blue from a few days ago. It then collapsed to the floor and stopped moving. Armour approached and noticed it was barely breathing.

Author's Note

Nopony got any idea what's happening to him yet? Anypony? Come on, somepony's got to recognise it!

Now the next question.

Mine involves water balloons.

Chapter 4: Bite me. Or don't. Well, not in public anyway.

My eyes fluttered open to reveal a dull light above me. I sat up from the bed I was on and started coughing. I had never felt this rough. There was a cup of water in front of me and I remembered that the last cup knocked me out, so I struck out with my arm and hit it away, closing my eyes. I opened them when I heard the cup hit some metal, and turned to see I was in a jail cell. Whatever world I had landed on I had obviously done something wrong. “Ah you are awake. I'm glad to see it.”

What? “Do not worry, I am in your mind.” Again, what? I thought I had actually gone crazy, now I had a voice in my head. All those years of joking that 'the voices made me do it', and here they actually are! “No, you are not crazy. You are very sane. I will show myself to you now.” I caught movement on the other side of the bars, where a large horse stepped forward. Two more approached from the side, and I recognised them from the room I had come to in before. I heard speaking in the strange language, and looked for riders. It was then I saw their mouths moving in time with the speech. Sentient horses? That can talk? Just where am I? The large on turned its gaze back to me. “We are ponies, not horses. And why shouldn't we be able to talk? And you are in Equestria.”

I stared at them for a moment then burst out laughing. “Oh that's good! Talking ponies that live in 'Equestria'! What's next, a cell with cats in somewhere called Felicia? So, when can I wake up?” I looked over the 'ponies', and saw that they had an extreme difference to each other. One was a fucking unicorn, with a blue mane. One was a pink pegasus/unicorn with a tricoloured mane. The one in the centre, the larger one, was the same, but was white with a quad coloured mane. The two hybrids looked female.

“Correct, I am Princess Celestia. This is Princess Cadence and Prince...” “GET OUT OF MY HEAD!” The two females in the middle stepped back at my shout, but the male came close to the bars, its horn glowing. “And what the fuck do you want?”

It opened its mouth and spoke, but I still didn't understand it. He scrunched his face up for a moment, clearly thinking, and then he smiled. Two pieces of metal were floated in front of the cell, one dull and on shiny. He got a cloth and started to polish the dull piece, getting a patch of it to the same level of the other piece. A set of armour meant for a pony was floated over. He point one hoof at the metal, then the armour, then finally at himself.

“Your name is... Polished Armour?” “Very close, you got his last name right.” “What did I say about my head?” “I'm sorry, but this is the only way to communicate with you at the moment. Unless you wish to be left alone...” “No, you can stay. So, not polished? Bulled? No, that wouldn't make sense. Shiny? Shiny Armour? Wait, you've got to be kidding me! Shining Armour?” “Correct. Now if I were to let you out, what would happen?” “Uh, well... I'd head back to my ship and leave. It's obvious you've never seen my kind before, so I'll just go look for them.”

There was no reply as they spoke amongst themselves, before 'Shining Armour' nodded and left, leaving me with the females. “It would be easier if you just said mare and stallion, as we are equines after all. But as to your ship... you will not be leaving in it any time soon. It was very severely damaged. I assume you require sustenance. What would you like?”

“Steak.”

“You want... what?”

“Steak, medium rare, side of chips, a bit of whisky sauce, and a pint of lager to wash it down with.”

“Okay, so you want some chips and whisky sauce, but what are the other two?”

“Lager? You know, beer? You get cider, bitter, lager. And steak, a big, fat juicy piece of me... fuck. You guys are veggies, aren't you?”

I got no reply as they turned and walked away.

“So then sister, have you discovered what it is yet?” The dining hall was cleared of all servants, leaving the four princesses, the prince, and five other mares present. Luna was sat opposite Celestia, the table going from east to west, the path of the sun and the moon. Where they sat depended on the time of day.

“No, it has taken me this long to study his language. Why they made it so complicated is beyond me.” She carried on eating till the lavender alicorn to her right looked up at her.

“So... it's intelligent? I was wondering if I could... talk with it?”

“My dear Twilight, I know you wish to learn more about everything, but even I can not speak to him in his native tongue yet.”

“I wasn't going to actually talk with him. If his species has achieved space travel, then they must know maths. I was going to see if it was the same as ours.”

“Egghead...” She turned her gaze to the pegasus mare on the other side of the table.

“Thank you so much for that Dash. Aren't you even curious?”

“No, that thing can stay where it is for now.” Twilight got up from the table and walked towards the door.

“After what Shiny has told me, it didn't know what it was doing. It needs help, so I'm going to offer my assistance.”

“Princess Sparkle, perhaps you should wait a while.” She stopped walking and turned to Celestia. “He is having his meal now, and I don't think you'll like it.”

“If it's for science, I can handle anything!” She held her head high and trotted out the door.

I heaved another sigh. For the past ten minutes I had been holding the purple mare's mane away from her face as she puked in to a bucket. I had enjoyed most of my meal, but didn't feel like finishing it now. The four guards just stood there staring at nothing. Eventually she pulled back, nodding at me. She smacked her lips a couple of times and gagged. “Hey!” The guards rushed forwards at my shout, and I mimicked having a drink, then pointed to the mare. The spoke to each other a moment and one of them disappeared round a corner, coming back a moment later with a cup full of water. The mare took it and drank the whole thing, before setting the cup down and smiling at me.

Her horn started to glow and a chalkboard with chalk appeared in my cell. I watched as she wrote some symbols on it, but I didn't recognise them at first. I studied them for a few minutes, and then I saw the link. There were fifty two of them in two sets of twenty six! I picked up the chalk and wrote down my alphabet, pushing the board towards the cell bars. She studied it for a few moments, before writing on it. I pulled it back and looked at what was on there.

'Hello, my name is Twilight Sparkle.'

Twilight... Sparkle. Yeah, I couldn't hold it together and promptly fell to the floor laughing. At least until I felt my head get wet. I looked above me seeing a cup floating in a purple haze, the to the mare with a clearly unamused look on her face. I picked up the chalk and wrote on the board. I couldn't replicate the symbols, so I wrote in English, and left her to translate it.

'Sorry, my name's Alec Luckes.'

She looked at each letter closely, and then smiled at me, and we seemed to hit it off. We spent the next few hours writing to each other on the board. It wasn't till her head dropped that I noticed the guards were asleep as well. I prodded Twilight awake and wrote on the board.

'Go to bed, Twilight. We'll carry on tomorrow.' She picked up the chalk in her magic and wrote a message back.

'Thank you for your time, I'll try and get you to better accommodation. Good night, Alec.' We smiled at each other and she nodded, turning and heading out of the cells. I laid down on the bunk and nodded at the guards, who trotted outside the cell block, closing the door and shutting the lights off.

I awoke to the sound of the cell doors opening, and rolled over to see a set of bright blue eyes looking at me. They were accompanied by a really big smile. I heard her say something in their language, and continued smiling at me. Slowly it disappeared, and she looked quite upset for some reason. She was yanked back in a haze of purple, stopping in front of Twilight, who had a quick word with the other one, before pushing her out the cell and looking at me. “Sorry about that, Pinkie just likes to be really friendly.” The grin that was on her face slowly disappeared, and she seemed unsure of herself. “Uh... did I say something wrong?”

“You are speaking English.”

“Is that the name of your language?”

“You. Are. Speaking. English.”

“Yes I am, I studied it before I went to sleep last night.”

“And what time was that?”

“About half an hour ago, maybe. It was too important to not study!” I was about to reply when Celestia came trotting in through the door. “Good morning, how are you feeling?”

“Pretty good thanks. That bed is more comfortable than it looks.” "That is good to hear, but I don't want you to spend any longer than you have to down here.” “Well, my new friend here said something about that last night. Well, she wrote it down.” “Did she now? Well, as a princess, she has that authority.” “Twilight's a princess? She never said anything about that.” “It is a fairly recent development, sometimes she forgets.” “Fair enough, thanks for my meal, by the way.” “You are most welcome.”

“WHO THE BUCK ARE YOU TALKING TO!!” Myself and Celestia both stared wide eyed at Twilight. They conversed in their own language, and Twilight kept gesturing at me and the chalkboard still present. They stopped talking and Celestia nodded, turning and leaving the cells, Twilight turning to me with a sigh. “I have been made your personal ambassador, due to the fact I can talk to you without telepathy. You have been invited to breakfast, please follow me.”

As we headed to the dining room, I looked out the windows to look at the gardens, and saw three fillies running around, playing with each other. “Hey Twilight, who are they?” She trotted over next to me and looked out.

“That's Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. You'll more than likely meet them soon. Just... if you hear a high pitched shout, you may want to duck.”

“What?”

“You'll see.” I looked out the window and saw the three looking up at me. I waved down at them and stepped back in to the hall.

“So, dining room?” Twilight was soon back at my side, nodding to me. Her stomach let out a small rumble.

“Yeah, I'm pretty famished.”

“Can ya see it yet Scoots?”

“Not yet! Wait... there it is! Get ready Sweetie Belle.” The filly walked out in to the middle of the corridor just as Twilight and the strange creature came by. They stopped and looked down at her.

“Morning Sweetie Belle, are you lost in the castle again?”

“No, Princess Sparkle. I just came here to warn you.”

“Warn me about what?”

“The monster that is right next to you!”

“He's not a monster!” Her eyes widened as she heard a shout from behind her.

“CUTIE MARK CRUSADER MONSTER CATCHERS, YAY!!!!” She didn't have time to react as Applebloom and Scootaloo came swinging through the air and impacted her companion in the chest, knocking him back. She watched as it happened in slow motion, Sweetie Belle being in the right position to trip him up. He fell backwards over her... and straight down a set of stairs. Once the crashing finished, she rushed down it. Halfway down she heard a shout.

“HELP, GUARDS! GET ME A MEDICAL TEAM NOW!” She got to the bottom to see Cadence, and her friend was on the floor... with a spear in his back. His breathing was laboured, and red was starting to pool on the pristine white marble floor. She heard a commotion on the stairs and turned to see the fillies running down them.

“Did we get him?!” They all stopped with their mouths hanging open upon seeing the results of their efforts. Celestia, Luna and Armour ran up, seeing the problem. Armour floated a cup over to him. Cadence looked up and shook her head.

“Remember what happened when he cut his throat? This will work. Luna, you're the best at healing magic, so here's what you need to do. Use the water summon spell, but infuse it with some healing magic. Don't use too much, otherwise we'll have a situation on our hands.” Luna nodded and her horn glowed yellow, the liquid appearing in the cup.

Cadence rolled him over and took a hold of the cup, floating it towards his mouth. “Drink, it will help.” He opened his mouth and she poured the liquid in. She rolled him back on to his front. Armour took the spear in his mouth and pulled it out. Blood spurted out, but the wound soon closed over. His breathing steadied as he lay there.

They waited for any sign of life, and they got it. Cadence and Armour backed away as far as possible. Then the other ponies heard it. Sniffing. He pushed his arms out and raised himself up. When he raised his head, his eyes had turned yellow. He let out a roar that drew the guards in, but not in time to stop him leaping at Luna. They rolled along the floor in a heap until hitting the wall.

Once they stopped, they saw that he was on top of Luna, his mouth round the back of her neck, gently biting in to it. He growled at the guards that approached, and dragged Luna away from them. His eyes suddenly shifted back to blue, and he looked down to see his mouth around the back of a pony's neck. He instantly let go and scrambled away, his cheeks turning red. “Uh... sorry. I didn't mean to do... whatever I just did.”

Luna rolled over and looked at him, her cheeks tinted pink. “That is quite all right. Perhaps we could talk about this later?”

“Wait, how are you speaking English?”

“I'm not, you are speaking Equestrian.”

“What?”

“I assisted Twilight with her translations, and I put a cipher into my healing spell, to allow you to communicate with us. Did I overstep my boundaries?”

“No, no, it's fine. So, why did I need a healing spell?”

“You had a spear in your back. Do you not remember?”

“No. Why the fuck did I have a spear in my back?” Twilight came forward with three fillies behind her.

“I believe these three can explain that. Girls?” He looked down at them and they refused to meet his gaze. After a tense silence, one of them spoke up.

“...cutie mark crusader monster catchers, yay?”

Author's Note

I did have their language as webdings, but when I copied it across, it auto translated it. Bollocks. Quick change there then! Although, it does work better.

Any speculation as to why he attacked Luna instead of any of the others?

Chapter 5: An Awkward Wake Up Call.

“Ah don't care! What you three did was irresponsible!” The three fillies shrank away from the angry orange, blue and white mares. “You are grounded for the next two months, Applebloom!”

“You too Sweetie Belle. I dread to think what mother and father will say when they hear about this!”

“I don't know how long for, but you're grounded as well squirt. Mom will sort that out when we get home. What the hay were you thinking? I know I've done some stupid things, but you just have to keep pushing the bar, don't you?” The three fillies were almost in tears, so I stepped in between them and the mares. The rainbow maned one was the one I was more concerned with.

“Back the fuck off, skittles. You two as well, miss marshmallow and blondie.”

“Skittles?”

“Miss Marshmallow?”

“Blonide? Ah'll buck your head off!” They all jumped at me at the same time, but were caught in a blue haze. I turned to see the pony that I had bitten next to me, her horn glowing the same colour. They were slowly lowered back to the ground, but their hooves were still caught in the glow.

“I agree with him, you must calm down.” The mares ceased all movement and continued to glare at me. I ignored them and turned to the three fillies, sitting on the floor. I had my hands behind my back, to try to seem friendly, when I felt something shoved into them. I brought them to my side, and saw three cupcakes. I caught movement out of the corner of my eye and saw the pink one waving to me, then pointing at the three fillies.

I set them down in front of the fillies and backed away. They slowly raised their heads and saw what was in front of them. The little unicorn was the first to move, her hoof cautiously reaching out and tapping the cake. Once satisfied it wouldn't, you know, explode or something, she pulled it towards her and gave it a sniff, then a lick, before stuffing it into her mouth. The other two, on seeing this, promptly snapped up theirs and ate them.

The unicorn took one tentative step forward, then another, and trotted over to me. She stopped, looking at the floor in front of me, then slowly stood on her hind legs and wrapped her front ones around my neck. The other two came over and joined their friend. I looked up to see the blue unicorn/pegasus smiling down at me. Her eyes were a distinct shade of blue, one I had only ever seen on one other person...

It had taken a couple of days, and now I found myself in a forest close to the northern region, a large spire in the distance. I followed the soldiers that were taking me to my ship. Once we arrived, I saw what Celestia meant when she said my ship was severely damaged, but that was an understatement. It was fucked. There was no way in hell I was going anywhere in it. The flight module was mostly intact, a few cracked windows and a massive hole in the side. The engines, however, were smashed to smithereens.

I climbed inside and saw that everything in stowage had come loose, including the bag of stuff I had brought from Earth. I picked it up and a massive book fell out of a hole in the bottom, thudding on the deck. I swept off the side and put the book on it, cracking it open. The first page was simple, with just a photograph on it. I stared at it for a good five minutes before tearing my gaze away, my eyes starting to tear up.

A black object drew my gaze and I bent down, collecting a pistol from the floor. I pulled out the magazine and slid the slide back, revealing an empty chamber. I looked at the mag and saw it marked twelve, pressing down on the first round to find it was full. I slid it back in and heard a satisfying click, before a voice behind me drew my attention. “Are you okay? Is there anything I can do?”

I just stared at the blue alicorn, as I had been informed they were called, and put a round in the chamber. I then pulled the slide back and ejected it. “One for my mother.” I did the same for the next round. “One for my father.”

Luna watched as he continued to eject the gold coloured objects from the black one. So far he had done it nine times, saying 'one for' each time. He slid it back again, dropping another one to the floor. “One for Simon.” He then hesitated, and looked at the book on the side. “One for... her.” Luna leant over and saw the photo, of him and what she assumed was the female of his species, wrapped in an embrace somewhere very picturesque. “One for... me.” This time, instead of pulling an object out, he place the black object to the bottom of his chin, closing his eyes as the tears started to fall.

It all fell into place as she remembered what Twilight had told her. “He's from a thousand years ago. He had some disease without a cure, so he froze himself to wait five years. His fiancée was the one who put him under. Something went wrong, and he ended up being in there for a thousands years. It then took him a further eighteen months to get here. I don't know what to say to him, everything and everypony he knew are gone.”

Luna picked one of the objects up and noted that one end was pointed and one was flat. She returned her gaze to him, hearing a click from the object and the tiniest of whispers. “...I'm coming, Sarah.”

“No!”

“No!” I heard the shout as I pulled the trigger, but the expected pain never came. I opened my eyes and saw a blue glow on the pistol. I saw that the alicorn's horn was glowing, having clearly worked out what I was trying to do. The pistol was whipped out of my grasp and dropped to the floor. She moved in front of me, making sure that I couldn't get to it. “Why would you do such a thing?”

I turned around, putting my back to her. “Please, talk to me. I wish to help. I know what it is like... to be alone.” I felt a hoof be placed gently on my shoulder, and intellectually I would have recognised it as a comforting gesture. Unfortunately, I was being driven by emotion. I reacted the way any angry person would. I span around and brought my fist up, connecting with her face just below her eye.

“HOW THE FUCK DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT'S LIKE? EVERYONE WHO EVER MATTERED TO ME IS DEAD!! DEAD FOR A THOUSAND YEARS!! EVEN IF I FOUND MY SPECIES, THEY WOULDN'T BE ANYTHING LIKE ME!! WHY DON'T YOU JUST ME JOIN THE REST OF THEM?”

Luna staggered back from the hit and shout, giving him enough time to dive for the side and a long black object. She caught the sight of gold inside, and he then used her disorientation to get behind her, picking the weapon up again. He hit something on the side and a similar small object slid out, and he went to replace it with a new one. Luna threw her foreleg out, knocking it from his grip. He dove for it again, but she leapt to intercept him, and they ended up crashing to the floor.

She felt impacts to her chest as he fought against her, and yet she did not retaliate once. She just held him there till the impacts stopped, being replaced with the sound of sobbing. Luna ran a hoof through his short hair, comforting him like a mother would a scared foal. Eventually he quietened down, and got his breathing back to normal and pulled away, picking the weapon up and throwing it to the far side of the compartment. He remained sitting on the floor with his back against the side. Luna thought it best to confront the situation here and now, in case there was another break down later.

“So... who is she?”

“She is my... was my fiancée. That was taken the night I asked her to marry me. If I had never met her, I wouldn't be here right now.” He closed his eyes to try and stop the tears coming again, but opened them when he heard hoofsteps coming closer. Luna timidly sat down next to him, and pushed him forward with a hoof, sliding her wing behind him and so that he could rest against her side. “Thank you... uh, I just realised I never caught you name.”

“You are most welcome. My name is Luna.” He nodded once and then was still, before taking a deep breath. He leant up to the side and pulled the book down to him.

“Well then Luna, let me tell you about my previous life.” She spent the rest of the evening listening to his stories behind the pictures, comforting him each time he broke down in tears. Eventually, he gave in, and she heard soft snoring from the side of her. A guard poked his head and to ask what was going on, but stopped at the sight he was presented with. Luna waved him away with two simple orders.

“Fetch us a blanket, and make sure we are undisturbed until further notice.” The guard saluted and jumped out of the ship, heading to complete his task. After a few moments, a blanket was floated through the hole in the ship, and she took hold of it, bringing it over and wrapping around them. There was a flutter of movement to her side as he snuggled closer. Luna nuzzled him once, then rested her head on his, closing her eyes. She would be there as long as she was needed.

I slowly awoke lying on a cool metal floor, but with a blanket over me. I could feel warmth to my side and looked over to see Luna lying next to me, and the previous nights memories came flooding back. I wanted to show my appreciation for her just being there for me, but there wasn't much I could do in the ship. I went to get up when her forelegs shot out and gripped me close, her head nuzzling against mine. I heard someone clear their throat and looked up to see the pink alicorn leaning over the side. Princess Cadence, if I remembered correctly. “Well, don't mind me. You two obviously shared something last night.”

“ugh... it's too early to lower the moon Cadence, go back to bed.” I raised my eyebrows at what Luna had just come out with. Cadence lifted a hoof to her mouth and let out a dainty giggle.

“If you want to wake her, try nibbling on her ear. She finds it... irritating.” I just stared at her blankly. “Trust me, I know my aunts very well.” Shrugging, I gave it a go. Instead of waking up, Luna's wings slowly extended to their full, and she rolled over on top of me. It wasn't unpleasant... just strange. Until she started to nibble my neck. That was always one of my sweet spots, and even though she was a pony, my body still reacted the same way, with my mind throwing up a blank.

“Mmmm, tastes good. I love pancakes.” She moved higher up my neck, eventually placing a kiss on my cheek. She then opened her eyes and stared directly at me, her cheeks growing pinker by the second. “uh... um, good... um, morning?” I just worked my mouth a few times, having nothing to say.

“Good morning auntie Lulu! And what a wonderful day it is too!” Luna whipped her head round to look at Cadence, her face now red from anger.

“CADENCE!!!” At her shout, she disappeared in a flash, and Luna ran to the hole in the ship. “GET BACK HERE YOUNG PONY, RIGHT NOW!!!” I got up and walked beside her, and gently massaged her head between her ears, earning a relaxing sigh. I lifted my hand up, but she pressed against it. “Don't stop... please?” I smiled and carried on, watching as her legs seemed to melt from under her.

Author's Note

A little darker than last time, no?

I know, shorter chapter this time, but I really don't want to work on a longer one right now. This might be why.

I'd say I'm about level 4, but as we all know, booze inhibits our sense of...........something, so I'm probably about seven!

Hell, it'staken me nearly half an hour to do this authors notw!! Screw it, i'm off to bed!

Chapter 6: The tests begin.

“So where is he now?”

“Still at his ship, he said he some things to take care of and would be joining us when he is done.” Luna levitated her fork into her stack of pancakes and continued eating her breakfast. It was just her and Shining Armour in the dining hall, Cadence suspiciously saying she wasn't hungry. The doors swung open and he walked in, dumping a bag to the floor, and taking a seat opposite Luna. They looked at each other and then to the table. Armour looked back and forth between them with amusement.

“So... what did you guys do last night?”

“It is nothing that concerns you for now, nephew!”

“Well, with that kind of reaction, it must have been something good!” Luna said nothing further on the subject, but their guest did.

“Drop it.”

“Drop it? Oh no, this is too good!” Luna could see the anger in his face, and before she could stop him, he reached for something to his side. She gasped as he pulled up the weapon and pointed it a Shining Armour.

“I said: Drop it!”

Cadence had decided it was time to face the music and apologise, heading through the corridors to the dining hall. She was almost there when a bang echoed from that direction, and she started to gallop to see what had happened. She ground to halt with the scene that she was presented with. He was in there, pointing a black smoking object to the head of the table, where Shining Armour was on the ground, forelegs over his head and shaking. There was a smoking hole in his chair where his head would have normally been. “Like I said, drop it.”

She made her way over to Armour and slowly coaxed him back to the table. She brushed his wild mane out of his face and gave him a quick kiss. “So, what did you do?”

“I just asked about last night and he attacked me!”

“Really?” She turned round to face him, disapproval stamped across her face. “That is no way to behave in the presence of royalty, is it? Now, why don't you tell us what actually happened?” Luna's let her magic flow and took hold of the weapon, gently wresting it from his grasp, and floating it to her side of the table.

“He will tell you when...”

“I tried to kill myself.” Cadence said nothing, her mouth open in shock. “My entire life is gone. There is no reason for me to be alive any more. So, why should I be?”

The three ponies at the table stared at me, Cadence and Armour with shock, and Luna with a smile. I just scowled at her, before getting up and walking to the bag and opened it. The ponies were watching with interest as I fumbled around in it, before my hand touched wood. I pulled the AK out and gave it a once over, making sure it was okay. I went to sling it over my shoulder, but it too was taken in a blue haze. I went back into the bag and pulled out a small metal case.

Luna made her way over and looked at the new object, before giving me a confused look and returning to the table. I had never seen this before, yet I knew what it was, no doubt from the info the EMH imprinted in me whilst we travelled here. I pulled the black edge back, watching as it unfolded into a pistol shape. I turned it over and saw some markings on the side – HMWP Xii. Foolishly, I held it out to feel its weight, and yet again Luna took it off me. I turned to her with my eyes narrowed. “Are you going to let me keep any of these weapons?”

“Not until I am certain you can be trusted with them. Now, how many more do you have in that bag?” I picked it up and turned it over. Another eight cases fell out, of varying sizes. The armour from the ship was also on the floor. All the weapons were picked up in Luna's magic, and floated away from me. “If you can get one without using violence, then you may keep hold of it. But... I wish to see you every two hours.”

“I can agree to that.” She smiled at me as I reached round to my back, feeling the cylindrical metal object. I pulled the pin out and took it off my belt, throwing it above the table. I counted five seconds and closed my eyes, covered my ears, and turned around. Even through my closed eyes I saw the flash, and opened them again to see the ponies blindly flailing around. I jumped on the table and ran forward, just as Luna was regaining her senses. She saw me running and ignited her horn, picking up the weapons up as I dove through the air.

“That was not very nice. As it is, you will not be getting any of these weapons!” I stood back up from the floor and started to laugh at her. “Pray tell, what is so funny?”

“You think I want one of those weapons? Why would I want them? I have this one!” I slowly turned round to show her the long metal object in my arms. Her eyes went wide. “Well, you said I had to get one, and I got one.”

“I said using non violent means!! You did not do so!” The rifle was surrounded in a blue haze, and I felt it pulling away from me, but I didn't release my grip.

“I did to! That was a flashbang, a non violent way of pacifying a crowd back in my time.” She stared at me, disapproval still stamped on her face. “Okay, they were used to distract people so that we could then beat the shit out of them, but I didn't do that this time!”

“Auntie Luna?” She tore her gaze away from me and towards Cadence. “May I ask why... you have bruises on your chest, and one on your face?” She looked at me once and then to the table. “YOU DID THIS?”

I felt a pressure on my back as I was pushed forward, and turned round to see a unicorn in dark gold armour with his horn lit up, and I raised the rifle at him. “That... was a bad idea.” I ran forward to meet him as he sent out a pulse of electricity and jumped to the side as it passed me. I got right up to him before he could fire another one and slammed the butt of my rifle into his face. He dropped to the floor as I raised my rifle for another hit.

As I brought my arms down, I found them swinging short, realising I was no longer standing on the ground. I looked to see a different shade blue around my waist, holding me in the air. Movement caught the corner of my eye, and I turned to see Cadence slowly making her way over. “I apologise for his actions, he is very serious about his position, and can sometimes be overzealous. If... I put you down... will you stop this... whatever it is?” I looked to Luna and saw her slowly nod.

“....yes. You have my word.” I was slowly lowered to the floor and released from her hold.

“Now then, what say you to getting back to breakfast?” My stomach let out a rather loud rumble.

“Sounds like a good idea.”

“Why are we doing this again?”

“To see what you are capable of.” The lavender alicorn was just finishing up with her interface, checking the connection to my helmet's communication gear. “Okay, so you know what we want you to do?”

“Get from one end of the gardens to the other, dealing with whatever threats in any way I see fit, but not fatally. Anything else?”

“No, you will be watched from above by Luna and Celestia. I'll be running along parallel to you to keep track of your progress. Now, when you hear the bell, you'll have ten second to get ready to start, and that is when I'll start recoding my findings.”

“Roger that.” She moved to the side and I heard the bell, and three unicorns entered the tent. I heard Twilight's voice through my helmet.

“I didn't arrange this... what are you going to do?” The horns started to glow. “So, what's the plan?”

“I'm going to finish counting to ten.” I heard a frustrated grunt as the first spell was almost ready.

Eight.

The other ones were almost ready as well.

Nine.

The took aim straight at me.

Ten.

I dove forward as the ground where I was just stood exploded, rolling forward and standing up in the middle of the unicorns. I lashed straight out with both arms to the side, connecting with two different heads, right below the eyes. The third raised his rear legs to kick me, but I caught them before he could and rammed my leg in to the joint, dislocating it. The other two tried to rejoin, but I kicked on and punched the other, watching as they all fell to the ground. Twilight's voice cracked though the speakers. “You could've killed them!!! Why... didn't you?”

“I was given permission to neutralize any threats.” I watched as they all tried to crawl away. “They aren't threats any more.” I could almost feel the frustration emanating from her.

“Bucking semantics. Fine, get to the other side of the gardens! And technically, you started to move forty milliseconds before you were supposed to”

Celestia and Luna saw him appear from the tent, instantly running for the cover of a hedge. He had been allowed a quick look over where they had set the course up, and he requested some clothing dye. Rarity was sworn to secrecy as to why, only saying that his fashion sense was 'simple ghastly, something even Rainbow Dash would agree with', even though the pegasus replied with the fact it was cool. They caught a glimpse of the design briefly as he ran under the light of the moon when it came out from behind a cloud, but now they couldn't see him.

The task was to get from one end of the garden to the other as quick as possible. There were pegasi guards patrolling through the air, and unicorns and earth guards patrolling the ground, armour with candles on special holders on the front. They were spread out evenly, and nothing happened for a good ten minutes. Then it started. The innermost light suddenly went dark. A pegasus swept down to investigate, and his light too went dark.

More lights approached the dark spot, and then one of the outer ones went dark. Another one on the other side went out. More and more went dark, until there were only four. They stood in the very centre of the garden, facing out and watching each others blind side. Celestia and Luna saw two horns glowing, and then watched the spells released and impact just out of the range of the candles.

Two lights went forward to investigate, before going dark as well. The last two started to swing wildly about, and they knew the guards were panicking now. They kept watching for another ten minutes but the candles remained alight. He had left these two for some reason. The looked to the end of the garden to see the torches by the door had gone out as well. They heard the flap of wings and turned to see Twilight land on the balcony. “I lost him, right before he got the first guard. He won't respond to me, but I know he is still out there somewhere.”

They all turned round to look over the gardens, trying to get a glimpse of his whereabouts. They stood there for a further five minutes until a dull thud of something hitting concrete behind them gave them a start, and they all jumped in to the air, turning to see... nothing. Celestia waved her hoof to the side and five pegasi guards, led by a mare from weather control, took off. They cleared the sky in thirty seconds, the moon's light pouring in to the gardens. Celestia whipped round at Luna and Twilight's gasps, looking over the balcony with her.

Out of seventy five guards, only two were moving. Most of them were just lying on the floor unconscious, but those that were near trees were hanging by a hoof here and there wrapped in vines. And there was no sign of him. Celestia turned to walk back inside. “Twilight, Luna, you have spent the most time with him, I leave it to you to work out where he has gone.” She stopped by some small trees on the balcony. “Hopefully he is still in hiding and he will hey!”

Something had prodded her in the flank, and she shot out a wing in that direction. It hit the trees, and she looked at them confused, before pushing her head between them, getting quite a big surprise. Sitting behind them, in her chair from her bed chamber, eating a slice of her favourite cake, was him, a big smile on his face. “But... how?” She then saw his clothing. Dark greens, brown, black... if she didn't know what to look for now, he could've stood next to a hedge and she would have been none the wiser.

“Which part? The cake or the chair?”

“All of it! That is my personal chair!! And the kitchens are locked at this time of night!!”

“Well, the big ass door with a sun on it can only belong to one person, and the kitchen... I owe you a new door for that.”

“But... what of the guards inside the castle?” As she said this, they heard a groan from inside, where a guard groggily made his way from.

“Uh... your majesties... there is something in the castle.” Luna stuck her head through the door and saw guards all over the place, against walls and sprawled on the floor. She spread her wings and flew a particular route. She started at the garden door, headed to the kitchen, then to Celestia's room, and finally to the balcony, counting all the way. She trotted back out and drew Celestia's attention.

“Uh sister, you know you promised the guards involved a extra day off?”

“Yes Luna, I remember. We will be no worse for wear with seventy five less guard for one day.”

“Actually, the total is... two hundred and seventeen.”

“WHAT!?!?!?”

“He... did the same to the guards inside as well.” A belch came from within the trees, and a plate was pushed through. He followed with a brown bottle in his hand.

“Damn this cider is good! Where's this 'Sweet Apple Acres'? I could do with a trip there. Why are you all staring at me like that? Oh, and I case you were wondering, I can do this!” They watched as his armoured shimmered, and then he completely disappeared. They could still hear his voice though. “Pretty cool, right?”

“Twilight, we did this two days ago. Why are we doing it again?”

“This time you are doing it without your armour, but will have something else. And this time it's for science.” She pulled a bowl off the side and set it in front of him. The tent flap opened and Luna walked in. “Ah, perfect timing. Luna, if you would please?”

“Of course, Twilight.” Her horn glowed and water started to pool in the bowl, along with a small current of magic. He shot out of his chair and backed away.

“No. Not after what you told me, no fucking way.”

“It's okay... I think it will be fine. Plus, we have devised a way to stop you... or at least slow you down.” Luna slowly walked over to him and their eyes met.

“Please, do this for me. I promise that whatever happens, we will forgive you for it.” The bowl was lifted up and floated over to them. “Please?”

He closed his eyes and heaved a sigh, before opening them again and nodding. He slowly took the bowl in his hands, and drank the entire lot. His hands shot to his head as he started to breathe heavily. He dropped to the floor and started to shake, but Luna held him close to make sure he didn't hurt himself. After a few moments he was still, and they heard the tell tale sound of sniffing. Quick as a flash, he flipped Luna over and once again bit down on her neck. She went limp, showing that she was no threat to him. He gave a growl to Twilight, who lay down on the floor, to show she was submissive.

His eyes were yellow, and they slowly turned back to their normal shade, but they still had a tint of yellow in them. He let go of Luna and stepped back, looking around the room. They were glad to see it wasn't as bad as last time. “So... can anyone explain why that's the second time I came around with Luna in my mouth?”

Twilight stood up and stared at nothing. “Well... my theory is... that effect brings out the more primal side of you. I'm not sure why you acted the way you did when you landed, but the last two times it has been Luna's magic, so it's safe to assume that you went after her because you felt some sort of connection.”

“I had three times the norm of whatever it is running through my systems at the time of the crash, so that might be why I was so out of it. And what now?”

“Same drill. Get to the door at the other end of the garden. You'll be on your own this time, so just stand in the light by the door when you are finished. Do you understand?”

“Get to door, wait.”

“Good, we'll see you there.”

They had double the guard in the garden. The moon was still behind a cloud when Luna and Twilight joined Celestia on the balcony. They nodded to her, and stood watching the gardens. Twilight's horn lit up and a bell rang, signalling the start. It happened faster this time. The tent flap blew opened, and he came running out, slamming right in to the first guard and sending him flying. He ran right through them, carving a straight path through the gardens. The guard had learnt from the other day though.

As he approached the centre, a whole set of horns started to glow, and as soon as he entered the range of the candles, they let loose. Once the smoke cleared, the saw a crater in the gardens, twenty metres wide. One guard slowly made his way over to the side to check. Even on the balcony, they could hear the snarling. Then came a massive, feral roar, followed by a blur that hit the guard full force, sending him in to the air. A couple of the pegasi caught him, and went to return to the fight.

By then, it was already too late, he had got past them. The alicorns on the balcony could see the lights heading to the door to catch up, but the shadow in front was just too quick. They saw him emerge into the light by the door, but he didn't stop like he was supposed to. They lost track of him as he ran into the shadows again. The guards surrounded that corner and sent illumination spells out, revealing... nothing. Not him, not some unconscious guards, just the gardens as they were during the day.

Then they heard it, scrambling across concrete. Before they could react, he leapt over the side of the balcony, and then jumped at Luna, again sending them rolling. Once the dust cleared, her neck wasn't in his mouth this time. Instead, her wings were at their full, her cheeks were very pink, and he was quite happily nibbling on one of her ears.......

Author's Note

They have finally started. It is

And yes, before you ask, he is speaking whilst 'feral'. It happens where the idea comes from, so that may give you a bit of a hint as the what that is, but I can't say too much or it might give it away!

Chapter 7:

“But you need to take them off!”

“I don't care!” The shouting match I was having with Twilight must have drawn the attention of the local ponies, as I could see shadows through the windows. Her request was not one I was going to comply with. “They are staying with me, and there is nothing you can do about it!”

“But they are made from metal! The rest of the clothes Rarity made for you are fine, but you must remove them for this test!” I ran my fingers along the chain of my dog tags, stopping as I felt the engagement ring I had attached to them.

“Well then you can find a different way to do the test! I was military, and this is the last memento of that, so I'll take them off when, and only when, I have found out they were disbanded. And the only way you're getting this ring is from my cold dead fingers!” I stormed off up the stairs and walked out onto a balcony. I looked down to see the crowd had thinned, leaving just three mares. They were all earth ponies.

One had a crème coat, with a pink and purple mane. The next was pink with a blonde mane, and the last was a lighter pink with a lime green mane. I bent over the balcony and listened in on their conversation. “Did you see it when it came to town?”

“I know. Do you know what it was?”

“Maybe it was an ogre.”

“Rose! There is no proof those things even exist!”

“Maybe so, but don't you think Twilight would have told us what it is if she knew?”

“Both of you shush! The shouting has stopped! Do you think it's still in there?”

“I don't know, Lily. Why don't we get a closer look?” I smiled to myself, this was going to be too much fun. I climbed over the railings and crouched down, hooking my feet round the vertical bars. I fell backwards, emerging from the lowest branches hanging upside down, startling the mares. I couldn't help but think of a song from back home.

“Hello. Is is me you're looking for?” The all fell to the ground with their eyes closed. I snickered to myself until I heard the library door open, and scrunched up my stomach muscles, returning to the balcony. I heard Twilight's voice from the ground.

“Rose? Daisy? Lily? What happened?” The crème mare was the first to speak up.

“The horror... the horror...” The pink mare with the blonde mane was next.

“It was awful...” Finally, the pink mare with the lime green mane talked.

“Twilight, there is something hiding in your tree!” I watched as the branches near me were bathed in a purple haze and shaken, clearly as an attempt to get me out of the tree.

“There's nothing there, Daisy. What did it look like?”

“Well, it had light skin, a very short brown mane, and it had these strange things instead of hooves.”

“Light skin, short hair, and no hooves...” Oh shit. “Did you see what colour it's eyes were?”

“Yes they were blue.” I slowly made my way back inside and to Twilight's private study area, which is where she had set up a spare bed. I heard the rest of the conversation as a muffle, and then the library door opening and closing. It was followed by the slow clip clop of hooves on the wooden stairs, which stopped outside the door. There were three solid knocks on the door.

“.....come in?” It swung open to reveal a strangely calm Twilight, who just stared at me. “Is there something you wish to discuss?”

“I,” she began slowly. “Would like to know why you thought it was a good idea to almost give three mares a heart attack?”

“Stress relief.”

“Stress.....relief? Relief from what, exactly?” I stared at her for a good twenty seconds before I answered.

“Relief from you.” The door was slammed shut as she walked out, and I heard her go back down the stairs. “Me one, Twilight Sparkle zero.” I looked out my window to see the last rays of the sun disappearing over the horizon. “I really should ask about that...” I picked up the book I had been reading whilst she had performed some tests, 'A Complete Guide To Modern Equestrian History'. With a candle burning and a mug of Sweet Apple Acres cider, I let out a relaxed sigh and leant back against the headboard, cracking open the tome to the bookmark I had paced.

I awoke to a muffled conversation between Twilight and two other ponies. Getting out of bed, I crept over to the door and cracked it open, putting my ear to the gap. I heard a voice that sounded like something you'd hear travelling around Europe. “So if we understand you correctly, Miss Twilight, he is nothing like a pony, and yet you want us to service him?” Just what the hell do they mean by 'service'?

“Yes, I think he could do with it. I'd offer to do it myself, but I happen to be the reason why he is stressed. So I would like you to perform you usual service on him, it may help.” This better not be going where I think it is...I heard another voice speak up, tinted with the same accent.

“Well, it will help us learn for when non ponies come by again. The last one we had was the minotaur, Iron Will. He was a hooful, I tell you!”

“Yes, well, that is to be expected with that race. But this one, I think it may be best if you wore your full uniform...” I closed the door then and walked back over to my bed. Sitting down on it, I reached to the shelf above and pulled down the HMWA-Xii rifle, aiming at the door. There was the sound of multiple hooves on the wooden floor, followed by a few light taps on my door.

“Enter.” It was slowly pushed open, and a pink hoof set down in the room. It was followed by another, and then the head of a mare, a blue mane contrasting against her coat. There was a white headband and neckband adorning her, and it was then I noticed she was in fact wearing some sort of pink dress.

“Uh... good morning sir. My name is Aloe, and I have heard you are quite stressed at the moment. If you'll allow us, my sister and I can help ease some of your anxiety.”

“And just how would you do that?” The mare just stared at me blankly, not comprehending my question. “I overheard Twilight, she wants you to 'service' me. Just what does she mean by that?”

“Oh, it is just a massage, nothing more. We do not run that kind of establishment!” I was about to respond when the other voice came in from outside.

“Aloe, is it safe to come in yet?”

“Yes Lotus, it is. Bring in the trolley, there is plenty of space in here.” I heard the sound of squeaky wheels as said trolley came in, pushed by a mare that was the polar opposite of Aloe, and she too was wearing a pink dress. I realised then what Twilight meant by 'full uniform'. “This is my sister Lotus, and we are both qualified masseuses. So, why don't you get ready? Any area you do not want us to go to, just cover it with a towel.”

“Uh... okay, but can you at least turn around whilst I get ready?” They both nodded and I waited till they turned away, then started to remove my clothes. I started with my shirt, slipping it off quickly. As it went over my head, I caught sight of the mares trying to get a discreet look at me. I had a quick smirk, before bending at the hips to stretch out. Just as I thought, they were both staring at my ass.

“See something you like, ladies?” They both turned away, faces red. I slipped my trousers and boxers off quickly and laid down on the bed, covering my crotch with a towel. “Okay then, let's get this done.” They turned back around and approached, one to either side of the bed. They motioned me to roll over and I did, feeling the hooves press gently and hard at the same time into my back. I caught a conversation by the door, but was already too relaxed to bother seeing who it was.

I had to admit it, Twilight was good at getting even. Me one, Twilight one.

Outside his room, Twilight and her friends, bar Applejack, all stood watching as he let Aloe and Lotus work, occasionally letting out a soft moan. He was absolute putty in their hooves, and Twilight turned her attention to the hushed conversation going on beside her. “I'm telling you, it would be awesome. He'd see that we don't hold Canterlot against him, and it helps relieve his stress from little miss science here.”

“But Dash, he doesn't need one of your 'sports massages', he needs a relaxing one, which Aloe and Lotus are more than qualified to give, I assure you.”

“You're just afraid, aren't you? He's not that scary... not like this anyway.”

“Fine! But a relaxing one, please!”

“Yeah, yeah, I do know the difference!” Before she could ask, Rarity and Rainbow trotted past Twilight and into the room. They whispered to Aloe and Lotus, then changed position with the pair and took over the massage. “You can begin, Rarity.” The white mare nodded and started speaking to him, all the while running her hooves across his shoulders.

“I just want to say I'm sorry for the way I reacted in Canterlot. It was not the way a mare should act. I hope that we can put it behind us, and be friends from here on out.”

“Mmmmmm.”

“Look at me, asking you such a thing when you are in no state to answer. There is also another who wishes to apologise. Dash?” She nodded and carried on massaging his lower back.

“Hey dude, sorry for being a mule.”

“Dash!”

“Fine! Look, we acted like jerks, and that was totally uncool. I know that we were harsh with the fillies, but if we weren't, then they wouldn't learn their lesson. But being angry at you for standing up for them, and what we did... I hope you can forgive us someday.”

“mmmm... .yes nurse.”

“Uh, Rainbow, did he just say 'yes nurse'?”

“I wanna... mmm... taste the rainbow.”

“I think so. But that last one... Why would he say something like that?” Before either could comprehend what was going on, they heard a soft snore from the bed.

I was lying in my hospital bed recovering. I couldn't remember the procedure, but I do remember the nurses. The first was a quick check up with Nurse Redheart. She took my temperature using my attached thermometer and her calibrated mouth. Then came meeting Dr Sparkle. She was the one who performed the surgery and put me under, but that didn't work. I don't know what kind of procedure is done by lying on the patient, but I felt good afterwards.

And now... was my bed bath. And it was then that I met my new nurse, Nurse Belle and Nurse Dash. They checked me over very thoroughly, making sure not to miss anything. The main thing was my blood flow. They gasped at a swelling under my blanket, and lifted it up to take a look. Nurse Belle spoke first. “My oh my! I believe we have something building up here, Nurse Dash. We should get to work on that immediately.”

“Yeah we should. Just look at that thing! Screw it, I'm going in.” She made her way under the blanket, her had near the swelling to pay it close attention, giving me a view of just under her uniform, where I saw she 'forgot' to put her underwear on today. My vision was pierced by a bright light after a few moments.

Rarity and Rainbow stepped back as he rolled over, a strange happy smile on his face. His eyes fluttered open, and then there was a clear look of shock on his face. It was obvious he was expecting to see Aloe and Lotus. “Um...how are you feeling, dear?” He just carried on staring, his face turning worried as he lifted the towel up.

“I'm... good. Uh, could you give me a few minutes?” The two mares nodded and backed away, closing the door behind them. “Well, you just went native, didn't you?” The shared a confused look before trotting down the stairs and making their way to the main area.

“Twilight dear, do you think you could put some tea on?” Twilight nodded and headed in to the kitchen, Pinkie and Fluttershy following. just as they heard the shower go on. “Rainbow Dash, could we... keep this between ourselves?” The other mare just sat there staring at nothing. Rarity waved her hooves in front of her face. “Rainbow Dash?”

“Huh?”

“I said do you think we could keep this to ourselves?”

“Yeah, I think I can agree to that.” The shower was shut off as the others came back in with the tea set and some biscuits. The sat down and waited, but were unsure what for.

I slowly peeled myself off the bed and went to the bathroom. Thankfully they had decent plumbing, and Twilight had a separate shower and bath. I flicked the controls for the shower until steam filled the room, and stepped into the flow. I picked up a bottle of soap and started to wash myself. I had to swap to cold water to rinse off as my dream was replaying through my head. Once I had... calmed down, I stepped out and dried off. The only thing I was wearing when I left the bathroom, after checking the hallway was empty, was my dog tags. I absent mindedly ran the chain through my fingers.

This had all started because I wouldn't take it off. It all seemed so silly now. Going back into my temporary room, I pulled on fresh underwear, a pair of jeans, a t-shirt and my boots. I stripped the bed and wrapped my dirty clothes in them. I walked downstairs and saw the mares sitting there. “Um... Twilight? Whereabouts do you do your washing?”

“I'll take care of it later, the hamper is just in the kitchen.” She'd do it? As much as I appreciated the offer, I couldn't let them know.

“No, I'll do this. It's my mess, I'll take care of it.” I didn't have a chance to argue further as a white flash removed the laundry from my arms. I looked at Twilight confused.

“Teleportation spell. Now you don't have them, so stop worrying. Come and have some tea.” I walked over to sit down, but the only seat available was on the couch between the white and blue mares. “Is something wrong?” I shook my head and reached into my pocket. Twilight's eyes went wide as I set my dog tags and the ring down on the coffee table. “Are you sure?”

“....yeah. Look, I'm sorry about last night, and most of my attitude in general since I got here. I know some things have been said that we all regret, so I think we should put that behind us and move on.” Twilight smiled at me, clearly pleased with what I said. “Having said that, Twilight, could you take those two and give me, Skittles, and Marshmallow some time?” She nodded at me and the three mares left the library, turning the sign from open to closed. I sat down in the large arm chair opposite the other two. “So...”

“It's Rainbow Dash, not 'skittles'. Why would you call me after a bowling pin anyway?”

“It's something from my world. Skittles are... were little pieces of candy coloured like a rainbow, and it's tag line was 'taste the rainbow'. You just said your name is Rainbow Dash, and with your mane and the way my mind works, Skittles just fits.”

“Fine, I guess you can call me that, if it makes you comfortable.”

“And what of me? Is there a link between my name and marshmallows on your world?”

“Uh, no. It's just...”

“Well, out with it already! Don't keep a lady waiting.”

“Well, you look... soft and fluffy, just like a marshmallow.” The white mare's cheeks started to redden, but whether from anger or embarrassment, I didn't know. “Look, I just call it as I see it. I'm sorry if I offended you.”

“Oh no, you didn't, darling... it's just... nopony has ever described me as 'soft and fluffy' before.”

“Ah, well, as it is Miss..?”

“Rarity, Rarity Belle.”

“Miss Belle, I say it as I see it. Now, the matter I want to get sorted out.” They both looked down to the floor. “Why did you take over from... whatever they were called?”

“Aloe and Lotus, darling. As for why we took over... we may have over reacted when you stood up for our sisters in Canterlot, and it was our way of apologising. Applejack could not be here today, as her brother is sick and she needs to work the farm. If you don't mind... I have a couple of questions for you.”

It couldn't hurt, they seemed friendly enough. “Okay, go ahead.” Unfortunately, she asked the one thing I didn't want to talk about. Not yet.

“Who was she?”

“Who was who?”

“The one who you gave that ring to?”

“...that's not important. Not now, and it never will be.”

“That's a lie.” I scowled at Rarity, working out what made her say something like that. “I am a grown mare, and I have a few friends in the Guard. Some of them walk around with rings and other objects on their bodies. It is a sign of a loved one that passed away. So, again, who was she?”

“I don't want to talk about this.”

“Look, whatever you say, you have our promise that it will never leave this room. And if you don't talk about it now, then when will you?” The look I was receiving seemed to be boring right into my soul, and I couldn't resist.

“Her name was Sarah. We met after I got promoted, with me stopping some guys from having their way with her. I ended up getting shot in the process, but it wasn't too bad. She was there to patch me up, which was handy as she was a nurse.” I didn't hear the main door opening behind me. “We started dating, an after a few years I asked her to marry me. She said yes, and we started planning everything, right down to whether to have fruit or chocolate cake. Then I got sick. We travelled to where medical technology was the best, but even then they couldn't work it out.”

“Then how are you still alive?”

“Her. She contacted people she knew in the medical field and they began to work on a cure. After six months, the only results they had was that it may take up to five years to find said cure. I was put in cryo stasis for that period so that my health would deteriorate. Sarah was there when I went under. The last thing I ever heard her say in person was 'I'll miss you. Don't worry, I'll be here waiting for you.' And then everything went to shit. Something happened on my world that ended with most of my species leaving the planet and spreading out amongst the stars.”

I paused to take a deep breath. “On my trip here I was again in cryo stasis, but I was imprinted with bits of information. The resources on our world had run out, and only the rich could afford to buy what was left. Eventually, that started to get low, so they pumped their money into space ships, heading to the other planets in my solar system. According to what I know, it took them over a hundred years to stop fighting and work together. They gathered the richest and most intelligent, then left, leaving the poor and... stupid, for lack of a better word. The things back on Earth are no longer human. Sure, they look human, and act like it, but they have gone back to how we used to be thousands of years ago. I'll be back in a minute.”

I got up and walked up the stairs to my room. Finding what I was after, I made my way back down, seeing that Twilight and the other two had returned. I place the photo album on the coffee table, and cracked it open. The picture from the night of my engagement was still there. I silently flipped through the pages with the mares watching. Eventually you could see in the pictures that I was getting weaker, but not once had Sarah left my side. “That's who she was, Rarity. She was my centre, my balance. She was everything to me, and she died whilst trying to save me. That was my job, to die to save others. I have no one to save now.”

I saw a purple glow on the coffee table, surrounding my dog tags. They were slowly floated over to me and slipped over my head. I looked to my side to see Twilight smiling at me. “There will always be those that need saving. But you... need saving from yourself.”

Author's Note

I.............have no idea what I've just written here. My last two stories I had planned out (mostly) well in advance. This? I'm just writing as it comes to me, and I don't think it's as good. What do you guys think? Write as it comes, or plan it out first?

Chapter 8: The best......and worst of humanity.

“So, how long has he been running for?”

“Coming up on three hours now, AJ, and thank you for letting us use the farm. His body seems to be built for endurance, as I had him do sprints earlier and he got tired very easily. But with a steady pace, he doesn't seem to want to stop.” The orange mare beside Twilight took her Stetson off and wiped a bead of sweat from her forehead.

“Well, he may not want to, but Ah think it's time fer some lunch.” She hoped over the fence and galloped to meet him, and they came to a stop next to Twilight. “Lookie here, y'all may be having a good time, but it is boilin' out here, why don't y'all come have something to eat and drink. Ya can carry on tomorrow.”

He looked at Twilight and she nodded, turning in the direction on the farmhouse. “Is there somewhere I can wash up? I stink after all that running.”

“Sure sugarcube, there's the shower in t' house, or we got a old pump out back if ya wanna cool off.”

“Old pump it is.” She waved a hoof to the side of he building, watching as he tore his t-shirt off. It was left hanging on the porch railing, and she thought she'd give it a quick wash for him. As she went to pick it up, she was hit by the smell of a good days work... something that had always been a turn on for her. Before she knew it, she made her way round the side of the house. His voice quickly snapped her back to reality. “See something you like?” Her eyes instantly focused on his rear end, and he just laughed at her.

She could feel the heat in her cheeks, and turned to gallop off, now in much need of a cooling off herself. The shower would do.

On the other side of Ponyville, Rainbow Dash was just finishing her weather duties, ready to start her stunt training when a voice from below called out. “There you are, my little Rainbow! Come down and give momma a hug!”

“Moooom! Do you have to do that in public? Or anywhere else for that matter?” Despite her tone of voice, there was a smile on her face as she flew down to meet the other mare. She had a pink coat, with a blue mane, and two blue lightning bolts for a cutie mark. You could see the family resemblance at a glance. A orange blur darted out and hugged the older mare's leg.

“Firefly, you're home!”

“Now Scootaloo, I know I'm not your real mother, but I thought we had talked about this?” The filly cast her gaze to the ground.

“I'm sorry, mom.” She was swept up in Firefly's legs, and pulled into a crushing hug. After pulling away enough to breath, she spoke again. “Can I go play with my friends? I know you and Bifrost... sorry, dad, are just getting home, and it would be easier for you to unpack without me in the way.”

There was a gust of wind as blue pegasus stallion landed next to them, his rainbow mane whipping around. “Of course you can go play with your friends, Scoots. Just be back in time for dinner, your big sister is bringing some friends over.”

“Cool, thanks dad, I'll see you later!” Before anypony could say anything, she was off on her scooter, heading into the direction of a certain fanishionista's.

“I don't think you should have done that, dad. Not after she and her friends made a visitor from another world fall down the stairs of Canterlot Castle and get stabbed in the back. It's cool though, he forgave them.” Her parent’s mouths dropped open in shock, and Rainbow completely ignored it. “So anyway, who's Spitty bringing this time?”

“Well, she is bringing her coltfriend, Rapidfire. And I think Soarin wants to pay a visit. Always nice to see my recruits every now and then. There was another reason for him coming as well...”

“Sweetie Belle, get down here this instant!” The shout was one of the most unlady like things that Magnum or Pearl Belle had ever heard. The white mare sighed and turned back to her parents. “I'm sorry about this, mother, father, but I shall let her tell you why she is grounded, and still has almost two months to go.”

There was the sound of filly's hooves on the stairs, and the all turned to see a smaller white blur attach itself to the pink mare's foreleg, holding on tightly. “Mommy!! Take me home, please!!! Rarity's being really mean!”

“I am NOT being mean, I am being perfectly reasonable, especially after what you did in Canterlot, in front of all the princesses, no less!”

“Uh, Rarity?”

“Yes, mother?”

“What did she do?”

“She and her silly friends were being 'monster catchers', and it ended up with a guest of the princesses at the bottom of the stairs with a spear in his back. Two months being grounded is a perfectly reasonable punishment, don't you agree, father?”

The stallion looked from one mare to the other, finally settling on the filly with tear filled eyes staring at the ground. “Sweetie Belle.” She lifted her head to meet his gaze. “Is this true?” She nodded. “Is he okay?” Another nod. “And has he forgiven you?”

“He... gave us a cupcake each.”

“Well then, I think it's all sorted out then.”

“Father, how can you say that! She needs to be punis...”

“And she will be, by me and her mother, NOT her sister! If you do end up going after that pegasus stallion, then you need to know when and what to say!” With that, he walked out of Carousel Boutique, Pearl and Sweetie Belle following. Rarity just stood there, mouth open.

“They know about him? This is the. Worst. Possible. Thing!”

“Could Ah have a word with you?” I turned round to see a massive red pony staring at me, his blonde mane wafting around in the slight breeze, a stand of hay sticking out the corner of his mouth.

“Sure, what do you need?”

“Ah was wonderin' why mah sister threw me out the shower after switchin' it t' cold with me in it.”

“To be honest, I don't know. I was just cleaning up at that old water pump, and caught her staring at me.”

“Had you been workin' all day?”

“Uh, no. Well, sort of. I had just finished up a three hour run. I was quite sweaty, which is why I'm glad Twilight had me bring a spare change of clothes.”

“Ah see. Well that explains it.”

“I... see. Care to fill me in?”

“Mah sister... well, she likes the musky scent of a stallion that's been workin' the fields all day. It's why she has her eye on somepony who sometimes helps on t' farm.”

“Are you saying... my smell turned her on?”

“Eeyup.”

“MAC! Keep it down would ya? Ah don't need the whole town t' hear my personal preferences! And what are ya doing outta bed? Get back in it!”

“Ah wanted a word with our visitor here. And Ah was wonderin' how long Princess Sparkle was gonna be around today.”

“I can answer that for you...Mac, was it?” The stallion nodded at me, flipping the hay to the other corner. “Well, she'll be here as long as I am, she is 'testing' me. Why are yo so interested?” Now, being a red pony, you'd think that visual shows of embarrassment would be hard to see. And you'd be right, but thankfully I had an ally.

“Big Mac, are you... do you... like Twilight?”

“Princess Sparkle.”

“She's mah friend, Mac, and she don't like being called that. She's told you that lots o' times!”

“Ah don't care, it's what Ah'll always call her.” He turned and strode back in to the house.

“So... AJ. Your brother and Twilight huh? Think they'd go well together?”

“Actually, yeah, Ah do. He may not look it, and nearly everypony thinks he's jus' t' muscle o' the farm. But he's actually the reason we do so well. He's always renegotiatin' use better deals, and 'is way with numbers is nothing Ah could ever hope t' match.”

“I think somepony heard.” AJ stared at me confused, until I leant down behind her and picked up a purple feather. “Who else that has this colour coat would have reason to be round here right now?”

“...nopony, that's who. C'mon, this way, but keep quiet!”

Mac had just climbed back into bed to carry on resting when he heard his door slowly pushed open. He awaited the inquisition from his sister, either one of them, but he wasn't expecting who he got. “So Mr Apple, how long?”

“Since Ah first laid my eyes upon yours, your highness.” He heard hesitant hoosteps come closer, stopping about halfway to the bed.

“Please, Twilight is fine. Why didn't you say anything sooner?”

“Yer gonna think Ah mighty foalish... but Ah was scared. How could somepony like me get the attention of such a beautiful mare? Don't worry, Ah won't say anything around town, princess.” There was more hoofsteps as she walked round the side of the bed which he was facing, pressing her muzzle close to his.

“I said to call me Twilight. And you've had my attention since you took off with Smarty Pants and never returned her.” She smiled as his eyes went wide. “Thank you for keeping her safe.” She started to inch closer.

“Ah wouldn't do that if Ah were you, Ah've got a right nasty cold.”

“And I can help you get rid of it, now shush.” He held his breath as she closed her eyes and broke the gap, gently bringing her soft lips to his. He closed his eyes as well, and thought he heard her purr. They both pulled away and opened their eyes at a shout from out side, turning to see AJ and their visitor looking in through the window.

“Twi? With mah brother? Why didn't either of you say anythin'?” The other head had disappeared back down the ladder.

I made my way back around the front of the house, just about to head inside when I saw two blurs charging towards me. Once they got closer I recognised them as two of the fillies from Canterlot. They slowed down and came to a stop seeing me. The white unicorn, Sweetie Belle if I remembered correctly, looked round nervously before speaking to me. “Help! We need help! Something has got Applebloom!”

I opened the front door, sticking my head in the gap. “Applejack, Twilight, get your butts down here now!” there was the sound of hooves on the floor as they charged down the stairs. “AJ, Applebloom is missing, I may need your help. Twilight, I need you to go back to the library and get the metal boxes marked ' HMWA-Xii' and 'HMWSR-Xii.', then get back here as soon as possible.” She nodded once and disappeared in a flash of light. I turned back to the fillies. “Where did you last see her?”

“We were down by the club house, it's this way!” The turned and ran off, but I followed AJ. It was safe to assume that she knew a quicker way, and I was right. We got there before the two fillies, and started to look round. AJ started with the tree house that was present, whilst I walked the tree line. Something caught me eye as I scrutinised the ground.

“AJ, come here!” She galloped over and looked at the ground where I was pointing.

“Ah don't see it. What did ya find?” I lifted up my leg and slammed it into the mud, then pulled it away. “Are you telling me... that there is more of you?” There was almost an identical boot print next to mine.

“It seems that way. And look, your sister didn't go without a fight.” She looked at the large pool of red liquid on the floor.

“But... how can you be sure that isn't mah sisters?” Her eyes started to tear up, just as the other fillies arrived.

“AJ, trust me. That isn't Applebloom's. Now I want you two to take her back to the farm house and keep her there. When Twilight comes back, send her to me. Can you do that?” They both nodded to me. “Good, make sure you stay with her.” They all turned and galloped off. I walked around looking for more evidence, finding another pool of blood heading towards the trees. Whatever this was had been bleeding a lot... or there was more than one. A flash behind me signalled the arrival of Twilight.

“I got your items. Where do you want them?” I took them from her and clipped them around my belt.

“I need two things from you. The first is a promise that you will not stop me under any circumstance.”

“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” She followed each line with a wave of her hoof.

“Right. And the other thing, I need... some of your magic.”

“Do you... are you sure?”

“Yes.” Twilight nodded once and summoned a cup, before filling it with liquid magic. “Get out of here before I drink it. I promise I won't be back until I find her.” She gave an exasperated sigh.

“I can't do that. I'm supposed to watch you, to make sure you don't become a threat to us.”

“Twilight, whilst I am still breathing I'll always be a threat to you. But I never break my promises. Please, trust me this once.”

“Okay... I'll do it.” She turned and trotted back to the farmhouse. I waited till I couldn't see her, and raised the cup to my mouth. This time it smelt of plums. I down the contents, waiting for the expected headache, but nothing came. I just felt energised, like I could do anything. I then found I could 'see' the scent of the blood, making a orange haze wherever it lay. I started to follow it.

I didn't know how long I had been following the blood, but eventually it opened into a massive clearing. I could see around twenty bright orange humanoid shapes milling about, and one dull orange non humanoid shape in the middle. Near a fire. I concentrated really hard and managed to 'turn off' my 'feral' abilities, allowing me to see what I though was a cliff was actually a space craft. It wasn't like the previous two I had seen, sleek and in good condition, but this one was mismatch of panels and rope, which seemed to be the only thing holding it together.

I crept out of the tree line and entered the clearing. The things milling about instantly ran over to me, and I saw that they were the same things from Earth. At least I found out how they managed to get on board the Friendship. The other humans came close, weapons raised, and sniffed me. I seemed to pass their test, and was allowed to continue. I could see Applebloom hanging upside down from a pole, her hooves tied above it. There was a small streak of dried blood in one corner of her mouth. Sitting in front of her was clearly the alpha for the group.

A space was made for me near the fire, and I went to sit down. I watched as he placed an antique rifle down on the ground, keeping his knives. I did the same, placing my metal cases down. “So... what you want?”

“I've come here for her.”

“No. She my meal.”

“Wrong, she's my meal, and she's not ready yet.”

“Ha! We find you ship! You have no clan! We in charge! We eat all animals here, then go look for more!”

“How about we make a deal?”

“We listen.”

“Let me have her, and I'll take the engines from your ship to repair mine. I'll then leave, and you can have this entire world. What do you say?” There was commotion near the tree line, and I saw some of them come to the fire, carrying a lavender pony. I could then hear the difference between English and Equestrian. It sounded more like a code, the syllables almost the same but in seemingly random order. I hoped talking to her in Equestrian would show them how long I had been here. “Twilight, what are you doing?”

“What am I doing? What are you doing? You said you'd bring her back, not leave us to them!”

“I asked you to trust me, and you betrayed that trust, remember, I keep my promises.” I watched as they put her in the same position as Applebloom. “Twilight, don't use your magic, it'll attract them. Just go with it, and I promise you WILL get out of this.” She said nothing as they tightened the ropes, and I turned back to the alpha. “Okay, that one is mine too. Do we have a deal?”

He rubbed his chin for a moment, before smiling and pulling out his knife. “We have deal. Now we do blood oath!” I watched as he drew the knife across his right palm, blood dripping from it. I pulled out one of my own knives and did the same, standing to meet him in the middle. He held out his hand and I went to shake it. Instead I pulled him close and shoved my knife into his chest, twisting as I pulled it out. He fell onto the fire, instantly dead. I heard the others around me snarling and growling, working out who was going to attack. It gave me enough time to 'turn on' my feral side, just in time to see one of them leap at me. She managed to knock me to the floor, not caring about the knife going into her neck.

I pushed her off me and stood up, roaring at all the others. They instantly started to cower and back away. I was confused until I saw some females in the back, separate from the main group. The were sizing me up, and I worked out what just happened. I had become the alpha. “Back on the ship, now.” None of them moved, so I growled, and they started to move. Two went to pick up Twilight, and I slapped them away. “Leave them. I will deal with them!” They bowed their heads in submission and got on board. “Twilight, trust me. Wait till I return.” She nodded at me and looked over to Applebloom.

“Please... hurry.” I gave her a salute and boarded the ship. Once I got to the bridge, it was clear the only one able to fly it was the alpha, as all the controls had been moved around a single chair. I opened up the nav software and saw it was already set to head to my ship. I looked at the images of the course, see what direction they were going. The others stood facing me as I typed in commands. A countdown appeared on all the terminals.

“Right, I will meet you at my ship. I have some things to do here before I can leave.” One of the other males stepped forward.

“We help you, alpha.”

“NO! You will stay on board! No one is to leave, do you understand me?”

“But what if you need...” I leapt forward and slammed his head against the wall.

“No one must leave, do you understand me?”

“Yes alpha, no one leaves.”

“Good.” I got up and walked off the bridge, then off the ship, making sure the door got closed.

Twilight's hooves had started to burn, the ropes really biting in. A small, timid voice from her right got her full attention. “Twilight? What's going on?”

“Just... stay still Applebloom... I'll try and get us out of this, okay?” The filly nodded to her. She started with her rear legs, straining to get them loose. It hurt like hay, but she managed to get the right one free. Before she could start on the next one, she fell to the ground, landing with a dull thud. She looked up to see the ropes had been cut, and he was standing above her, eyes still tinted yellow.

“I said... to wait for me.” There was a slight growl to his voice as the ship behind them took off. “I keep my promises.” He moved over to Applebloom, supporting her as he cut the ropes, gently wiping the dry blood away from her mouth and giving her some water. He moved over to the fire and picked his weapons back up. “Twilight, there is a canyon nearby, can you teleport us to it?”

“Yes, it shouldn't be too hard.” Her horn started to glow.

“Wait!” He closed his eyes in deep concentration, and when he reopened them they were back to his natural blue. “Wouldn't want to attack you as soon as we reappear.” She nodded once and let the spell loose.

They flashed into existence on the edge of Ghastly Gorge, in time to see the ship cresting the tree line and gaining altitude. “Where are they going?”

“They think they are going to the remains of my ship so I can repair it using parts from theirs.” He set Applebloom down gently and grabbed one of the boxes, pressing a button on the side to let it expand into a longer version of the weapon she saw that morning in the library. “They won't make it.”

“What do you mean, 'they won't...” She was cut off as an explosion rocked the ship, its trajectory rapidly decreasing, giving a new course straight into the bottom of the canyon. She watched in horror as the remaining engine flared, trying to right its flight, but to no effect. She could see the faces of those on board, men, women, and even children. All of their gazes we fixed on him, before it dipped below the cliff edge. Five seconds went by before a massive explosion, to which Twilight threw up a shield around the three of them. Once the debris stopped falling and the fireball disappeared, she dropped the spell to see Applebloom shivering on the ground, with him just stood there, watching the wreckage through a small circular object on top of the weapon.

He stayed that way for a good five minutes, not looking at them once. He made a small grunting noise as he pulled the weapon tighter to his shoulder, pulling the activation switch three times in rapid succession. He then turned round and picked Applebloom back up. “Come on little one, let's get you home.”

“How can you do that?”

“Do what?”

“There were children on board! Families! Of your own people.”

“They were not my people, Twilight. Those were the things from my world, the one that everybody deserted!”

“And some were left behind! They were you people!”

“Do you know what they were going to do to you, to Applebloom, and to the rest of you entire race?”

“Of course not, I couldn't work it out in time. All I got from you was that we 'belonged' to you. What were they going to do?”

“It doesn't matter now.”

“I am a Princess of Equestria, and I demand to know why you just killed those on board in MY land! And just so you know how serious I am, I never use my title for anything!”

“FINE! THEY WERE GOING TO FUCKING EAT YOU!”

“Eat... us?”

“Congratulations Twilight Sparkle, you've now met both ends of humanity's spectrum. Me, the best, as I'm the only remaining human from that time.” He kicked a rock off the cliff edge. “And them, the worst. And now they won't be a threat to you any more.” He just walked off towards the farm, nothing more to say on the matter. Twilight shook her head and followed. She'd wait to get back to Sweet Apple Acres, where she could snuggle down with her new special somepony and think.

Author's Note

I think I figured it out. Got the ideas whilst on a six hour walk with my dogs, got some bullet points, then expanded on them as I wrote. Did it work out okay?

Anypony know who that pegasus stallion Rarity is interested in then? Maybe even who AJ is watching?
Yes, I know I went cliché with Mac and Twilight. Even using Smarty Pants. This time I'm shipping with canon characters, so you can speculate as to who I've chosen! So let's see who gets them right!! Each of the mane six has somepony selected already. Let the speculation games begin

IF you get a PM, it will be to tell you which ones you got right! For now, as it's 0020 for me,

Chapter 9

Applejack was pacing round the front room, whilst the two fillies sat on the couch, Granny Smith was asleep in her rocking chair, and Big Mac was blocking the door so his sister couldn't get out. “AJ, if he said he'd bring her back, then he'll bring her back. Jus' give 'im a little more time.”

“But what if he don't Mac, what then? What if he's too late?” The door to the farm house opened and she nearly bowled him over in her haste to get to the door. “Applebloom, is that you?” The two ponies who greeted her made her features drop.

“Sorry AJ, I was asked to head into town and get Doctor Stable. I thought Applebloom would be back by now.”

“What do you mean Twi?”

“Well, I left him halfway back through the Everfree Forest. He said Applebloom would need a check up as soon as possible and to go get a medical professional to meet us here.” They were pushed to the side by the other stallion inside.

“You can set up in there, Ah'll go and find them.”

“Mac, you can't! You're sick, and if anything happens to you whilst out there... ” He cut Twilight off with a quick kiss.

“That's mah sister out there. Not even a royal order would stop me, princess.” With that he turned and strode out the door, heading in the direction of the fillies clubhouse. Twilight led Dr Stable in and helped him set up, before herding Applejack to the kitchen and pouring her a mug of cider.

“AJ, she'll be fine, I trust him. Especially after what I saw out there.” She poured herself a mug of cider and downed half of it in one go.

“What was it?”

“More of what ever he is, but they were savages. They were planning on... eating us.”

“And he stopped them?”

“They are now a smoking hole in Ghastly Gorge. He killed them AJ. Not just males, but females... and children as well. All to save us. What do I do?”

“Ah... don't know Twi, but for now let's jus' wait for Mac to come back.” They finished their drinks and went back in to the main room. They didn't expect to see four more mares waiting for them. “Howdy girls, what're y'all doing here?”

“We came as soon as we heard an explosion, darling, it seemed to be above your farm. And we just over heard your conversation. Do we really want to keep a killer in our midst?”

“Rarity.” She turned to look at her yellow coated friend sitting next to her. “Do you remember Shining Armour's wedding? What we were forced to do? We killed Changelings. We didn't have any choice in the matter, because if we didn't, we may not have managed to help him and Cadence perform the spell in time.”

“Yes, but did we kill any children?”

“Well... um, no, we didn't, because it's not right.” A strained voice from the doorway startled them.

“No, it's not... but it had to be done.” They all turned to see him and Big Mac standing there. Applebloom was asleep on Mac's back, and he was leaning against the stallion. Fluttershy was instantly at his side.

“Oh my! You're bleeding, let me take care of that!” Before she could do anything, he bent down and wiped the blood away.

“It's not mine. I'll be fine.” The leg carried on bleeding, and Fluttershy jabbed it with a hoof, watching as he winced.

“It is yours, and its still bleeding!”

“Oh. Must have been the wolves.” He then fell to the floor. Dr Stable had removed Applebloom and was giving her a check up whilst Fluttershy borrowed some supplies, getting to work on stopping the bleed and bandaging the wound. Twilight looked over the process, making sure her guest was taken care off.

“How come you just didn't heal yourself? You've done it three times that I know of.”

“And all three times I don't remember. I guess it's when my powers are active, and I've got them off at the moment. Natural healing is sometimes better.”

“I agree. Now Twilight, could you give my patient some space? He needs to rest.” She backed away as Fluttershy finished up. “There, now don't put any pressure on it, and you should be fine. I also suggest that you don't do anything for at least a week. Is that understood?”

“Yes Sarah, now stop nagging!”

“Um... who's Sarah?” His eyes shot open, going wide when he saw Fluttershy there instead. He started rubbing the ring attached to his chain.

“She's... uh...”

“It's okay, you don't have to tell me if you don't want to. I know we haven't been introduced properly yet, my name is Fluttershy, and it's a pleasure to meet you.”

“You too Miss Shy, my name is Alec.”

“Uh, hate to break up the moment, but I don't have a spare room on the ground floor, and my stairs are too steep for him to even walk up. I'm not sure where I can put him.” A pony behind them cleared her throat.

“I... have a empty room on my ground floor, darling. He could stay with me. All I ask is that he does not interfere with my business.”

“Don't worry, I hate fashion.”

“Well, we'll change that in a few days!”

“But Daaassssh! I wanted to go with Sweetie Belle!” The orange filly kept protesting as they made their way home. It hadn't been five minutes since she had said goodbye to her friend, and there was only one reason Scootaloo would willing go to Carousel Boutique, but he needed his rest.

“Sorry squirt, but mom and dad are expecting us for dinner. Plus Spitfire is here, don't you want help learning to fly from three Wonderbolts?”

“Three Wonderbolts? Who else has come along?”

“Well, there's her coltfriend, Rapidfire. And Soarin's tagging along. Not sure why, but mom said he had a reason.”

“Maybe it's to ask you out on a date? I've seen that poster in your closet, the one that says Playmare on the bottom.” She suddenly found her mouth full of blue hoof.

“Do not repeat that. Ever. Especially not in front of him!” Scootaloo nodded and they carried on, arriving outside a three story house on the outskirts of Ponyville. They tried to slip in unnoticed, but a yellowish orange blur darted at them and pulled them into a tight hug.

“There's my two little sisters! Oh, it's been ages since I've seen you, how have you been?” Rainbow managed to pull herself out of Spitfire's grasp.

“Fine, Cap. Been an interesting few days here.”

“Dash, I told you to stop calling me that outside of work. I know I'm harsh there, but I can't be seen to have my favourites. Now, come on, we're all hungry from flying from the academy.” They followed her over to the dinner table, where their favourite, sit fry, was set out. Scootaloo hopped up between Firefly and Bifrost, Spitfire sat down next to Rapidfire, leaving just one chair for Dash. Unfortunately for her, it was right next to Soarin, and that picture was still fresh in her mind.

She slowly climbed up next to him, not meeting his gaze. “Hey there LT, been a while.”

“Sure has Dash. And drop the rank will ya? It makes me fell old!” They proceeded to eat whilst discussing life, the Wonderbolts, and the strange new visitor. “So that's what that was in the sky the other night.”

“So... Mr Soarin?”

“Yes, little filly?”

“Have you ever done any modelling?”

“I may have done... some. Why do you ask?”

“Oh... no reason.”

“I... uh, I'll do the dishes tonight.” All of the pegasi stared opened mouthed as Dash collected the dirty plates and trotted off to the kitchen. She never willingly did them. They all made their way in to the sitting room, Spitfire slyly noticing that Soarin had gone the other way.

“So... modelling. You ever thought about doing some, Dash?” There was a smashing sound as she dropped one of the plates to the floor. She cursed under her breath and got out a dustpan and brush, starting to sweep up the mess.

“I... did some for my friend Rarity a couple of years ago. Not really my thing.”

“Oh, a shame that. We're always looking for beautiful mares to be our poster girls. So, have you got any of me?” Rainbow turned away from the sink to look at him, leaving the hot tap running.

“I... may have one or two.”

“Was it... something like this?” Rainbow's wings shot out with an audible 'pomf' as Soarin stood on his hind legs, placing his fore hooves on the well and slowly stretching his wings out. The steam from the sink framed his body, and his eyes followed Dash's as they made their way from his face, past his wings, and down to his well toned flanks. There was more crashing as she dropped the rest of the plates. Soarin trotted over and swept them up, turning the tap off whilst she just stood absolutely still, barely even breathing.

He put his muzzle close to her ear and whispered to her. “So... why don't we make things more... private?” Her face went pink as she saw her entire family watching from the doorway...

“Hey AJ!” She whipped her head up to see one of the occasional farm hands trotting towards the barn. “I just thought I'd let you know that the northern field is completely finished, and all the apples have been moved into the cellar. I'll be back tomorrow to do the eastern one.”

“Okay, Caramel, Ah'll see ya in the morning.” He waved at her and trotted off, heading into town. AJ turned round and bumped into the massive chest of her brother. “An' jus' what do you want, Mac?”

“Ah was wonderin' when you were going to tell him.”

“Ah don't know what yer yammering about, now get back in bed, before I get Twilight out here to see to ya!”

“Ah wouldn't mind that.”

“Get back in the house ya filthy stallion! Ah'm heading in t' town fer a bit, don't know when Ah'll be home, so make sure Applebloom eats her supper and gets a good night's rest, ya hear?”

“Eeyup.” He trotted back inside, and AJ headed towards Ponyville proper, a specific destination in mind. Along the way she saw a set of light gold hooves keeping step with her. She snapped her head up to see a stallion wearing a matching Stetson to her own, his lighter green eyes matching the cheery grin on his muzzle.

“Well howdy, cuz! Where y'all off to?” It took a few minutes for AJ's brain to catch up.

“Oh, howdy Braeburn, Ah forgot you were coming to visit for a few days. It's been a few strange days round these parts. Ah'm headin' to t' local watering hole. Care t' join me?”

“Ah would love to AJ. Is it still run by the same stallion?”

“Yeah, Caramel still owns it. Not sure how he manages to open after a full days work on the farm, but by Celestia, he does it somehow.” The trotted along for another ten minutes, before stopping outside a large, single story building. There was a sign with three blue horseshoes hanging of one of the lamp posts, the sign underneath simply saying 'Caramel's'. Adorning the wall was another sign, 'Welcome to Caramel's, the first tavern to sell Sweet Apple Cider!' Something about seeing that always gave Applejack a warm feeling.

“Well then cuz, I guess the first rounds on me, being the stallion an' all.”

“Actually Brae, the first rounds on t' house, it being mah brew after all. Now, let's get to drinkin'” They made their way inside, seeing it half full already. Caramel was busy behind the bar, whilst Fluttershy was moving from table to table, delivering plates of food and removing used items. It had come to a shock when the girls found out she was a barmaid part time here, having taken the job in winter when all the animals were hibernating. She had done it so well that Caramel asked her to stay on through the summer, working whenever she could.

AJ caught movement out of the corner of her eye, turning to see Caramel waving at her. “Hey AJ! Didn't expect to see you so soon. The usual?”

“Eeyup, and one fer mah cousin as well, if ya don't mind.” He pulled down two mugs and proceeded to fill them.

“Not a problem, as it's your brew. So, anything new happening out in Appleloosa, Braeburn?”

“Oh boy, let me tell ya! We gonna have our first pony buffalo wedding soon! Little Strongheart found herself a young stallion in town, and they've never left each others side since! It all started when...” For the next few hours the trio swapped stories of what had happened since they had last been together. They heard the clock strike nine, and AJ knew what that meant. She didn't realise it had already started a bit earlier.

“Braeburn, we need to go now!”

“But why cuz? We're having a wonderful time, it'd be a right shame to stop now.”

“Braeburn, trust me, you don't want to be here fer this!” The sound of somepony singing finally hit her ears as they trailed off on the last verse.

“So I'm saving all my love
Yes, I'm saving all my love
Yes, I'm saving all my love for you...”

“Oh Celestia, Ah'm too late!” Knowing what kind of songs came on after nine, she ordered another three ciders for herself as the applauding started.

“Um... thank you everypony. There's been a, um, slight change of plans, as somepony special has come in tonight, and I'd like to, um, do something nice for them. I'll be back in a few minutes.” Fluttershy slipped off the stage, and into the dressing room at the back. Caramel came out to see if she was okay. “Where is it? For buck sake it was right here!” She nosed around in the closet a little longer.

“Uh... Shy, are you all right?”

“Ah ha, there it is!” Caramel jumped back at the mare's ecstatic shout as she pulled out of the closet, a dress hanging over her back. “Oh Caramel, I didn't see you there. Could you put track number thirty seven on please?”

“Are... you sure about that?”

“Yes I am, and I'll give you the usual signal to show I'm ready.”

“Okay, if you really want to.” He made his way back to the bar and selected the track, pausing just before it started. “Okay mares and stallions! If any of you are here with your partners, or don't want to be caught, then it's time to leave!” A third of the bar emptied and he saw the left most part of the curtain twitch, then hit play on the karaoke machine. “May Luna have mercy upon my soul...”

Every single male head turned to the stage as the singing started, and some of the mares did too, including Applejack's. She still couldn't believe this was her timid friend.

“I love myself; I want you to love me
When I feel down; I want you above me
I search myself; I want you to find me
I forget myself; I want you to remind me...”

The curtain twitched in the middle, and Fluttershy stepped through in her outfit, instantly gaining cheers from all those watching. Her wings slowly unfurled as she carried on singing.

“I don't want anypony else
When I think about you I touch myself
Ooh I don't want anypony else Oh no, oh no, oh no...

You're the one who makes me come runnin'
You're the sun who makes me shine
When you're around I'm always laughin'
I want to make you mine...”

She hopped down from the stage, brushing her tail against random stallion's, and some mare's legs. They were powerless to stop the power of raunchiness that had taken over a mare of pure innocence, horns glowing and wings extending.

“I close my eyes and see you before me
Think I would die if you were to ignore me
A foal could see just how much I adore you
I'd get down on my knees; I'd do anything for you

I don't want anypony else
When I think about you I touch myself
ahh ohh I don't want anypony else
oh no oh on oh no yeah...”

She made her way though the tables to the bar, standing on her hind legs and bending, so that her flanks were pressed tightly to her dress. She brushed her wing tips across the muzzles of the stallions sat there, staring at her with mouths open. She leant over in such a way that everypony could see she was, in fact, wearing fishnet stockings and not tights.

“I love myself; I want you to love me
When I feel down; I want you above me
I search myself; I want you to find me
I forget myself; I want you to remind me

I don't want anypony else
When I think about you I touch myself
ahh ohh I don't want anypony else
oh no oh no oh no...”

She moved away, going further down the bar, closer to the stage. She stopped once more at a stallion. One sat right next to Applejack. Braeburn. She place her fore hooves on the bar to either side of him, brushing his flanks with her wings.

“I want you
I don't want anypony else
and when I think about you; i touch myself
ooh ooOoh ooOoh aaaaahhhh...

I don't want anypony else
When I think about you I touch myself
Ooh I don't want anypony else
When I think about you I touch myself...”

She slowly started to lean closer. Braeburn, for all intents and purposes, was shot. Broken. He could do nothing but stare back into those deep, entrancing, cyan eyes.

“I touch myself
I touch myself
I touch myself
I touch myself
I touch myself
I touch myself

I honestly do
I touch myself
I touch myself...”

For a brief second, Braeburn thought he'd died and gone to paradise as he felt her soft lips brush against his own, before she puled away, knocking his hat off with a flick of her tail, and walking backstage with her hips swinging, all eyes on them. Applejack promptly ordered another three mugs and downed them all, finally hearing something from her inebriated and entranced cousin.

“Well... howdy Miss Fluttershy...”

Author's Note

Oh look, another author went with SoarinDash. How many of you thought I was going for SoaRity? I am prepared. Come get me bitches.

So, FlutterBurn. Was that a surprise?
Three down, three to go! The only hint I'm giving is that two of them need to go to Canterlot!

Chapter 10: 1+1= a window.

Quick A/N: Bilsilat, there are more pictures, but remember, you don't have to look!

We were stood looking out over the bay, the skies clear. We could see everything thanks to the light from the moon. Wrapped in my arms was the woman of my dreams, someone who I would give everything for. Nothing was said between us, as there was no need. She pulled away and headed inside, our wine glasses in her hand. Must have been going for a refill.

I heard the door open after a few minutes, but the expected embrace never came. “Alec, where did you go?”

“What do you mean Sarah? I'm right here!”

“This isn't funny! Now where are you!”

“I'm right here! I'm standing in front of you!”

“Well, I'm going back inside. You can have your fun!”

“What the fuck are you talking about? Can't you see me?Or hear me?” I followed her back through the kitchen, and in to the bedroom. My friend Simon was lying there.

“Is he gone?”

“Yeah... now we don't have to worry about anything.”

“You're supposed to be my friend!! I'll fucking kill you!!” I leapt towards the bed, but passed right through it. I got back to my feet and turned around, ready to try again, but a window had been put in front of me. I watched as Sarah slowly laid on top of him, banging my hands against the glass. “SARAH!!! SARAH, DON'T!! NO, SARAH, I'M RIGHT HERE! I'LL NEVER LEAVE YOU!! PLEASE, COME BACK TO ME!! SARAH!!”

Rarity awoke early in the morning to a loud and repetitive sound. It took her a few minutes to recognise the noise. “Oh my, he certainly does snore loudly. I hope he's okay down there.” She hopped out of bed and proceeded to have a shower, fix her make up and mane, then go to make breakfast. Once down the stairs, she found the snoring was coming from her shop, not her guest room. “A sleepwalker, wonderful!” She trotted in to wake him up, but stopped when she saw who was in her shop.

Just poking over the edge of the couch were some yellow feathers. Upon further inspection, she found Fluttershy asleep with a Stetson on her head, a matching vest on her chest. There was a picture in her hooves, which Rarity picked up in her magic, shaking her head at what was on show. She saw a golden hoof poking out from her supply closet, trotting over to find Braeburn asleep. In Fluttershy's showpony dress she had made for certain nights at the tavern. She heard rattling from her kitchen and walked over to find Applejack trying to get a glass of water. “Applejack, what are you, your cousin, and Fluttershy doing in my boutique?”

“Keep it down would ya, mah head is pounding.” Rarity used her magic to turn the tap on full blast, making the water splash into AJ's face. “Now why would ya do that? Ah'm already awake!”

“And now perhaps you could tell me why Braeburn is asleep in my fabric storage wearing Fluttershy's dress, and she is crashed on my couch wearing his hat and vest, and why you are all in my shop at six thirty in the morning!” Applejack finally managed to open her eyes.

“Uh... morning Rarity, what are ya doing here at t' farm?”

“Take another look around, Applejack.” The mare took in her surroundings, realising that this was most definitely not the farm.

“Ahhh hay. Is mah cousin around?”

“In the shop, darling.” She got up off the ground and wobbly trotted out of the kitchen, Rarity letting out a sigh as she tried to calm down.

“WHAT THE HAY? BRAEBURN, WHY ARE YA WEARING THAT?”

“Uhhhh, AJ... stop whispering so loudly...”

“AH AIN'T WHISPERIN', BRAE!! LOOK AT YOURSELF!!”

“AHHH, WHAT THE HAY DID AH DO LAST NIGHT?”

“mmm, I like delicious braeburn apples...” Rarity poked her head out just in time to see a yellow blur hungrily attack the very confused stallion. It was clear that alcohol had played a part in this particular escapade. A shout from the room behind her drew her attention.

“SARAH, DON'T!” There were a few more mumbles and she trotted over, cracking the door open slightly.

“Are you okay, darling?” She pushed the door open completely, allowing light to filter in. He was tossing and turning, sweat beading at his head, and his arms flailing wildly. Rarity was too afraid of being hit to go in and help.

“SARAH, NO!!!” He shot up, eyes wide and staring around the room, breathing heavily. He spotted the worried unicorn by the door. He flopped back down, bringing a hand to his forehead.

“Darling, whatever is wrong?”

“Just a bad dream, nothing to worry about.”

“But you were calling out for... I'm sorry, it's not my place to say.” She turned to leave him in peace, but his voice bid her to stop.

“Please, don't go. I... don't want to be alone right now.”

“I will stay as long as I can, but... I must open the shop at some point today.”

“Rarity?” She looked down to her sister, now standing next to her. “I... can stay with him if you like. All I've got to do today is homework, and I... already invited Applebloom and Scootaloo over so we could work on it together. Is...that okay?”

“It's not me that has to decide that, Sweetie.” She looked up to see him trying to climb out of bed. “I wouldn't do that if I were you, darling.”

“And why not? I'm not going to sit around doing nothing all day, I'll go crazy. Okay... crazier.”

“Because Fluttershy is in the next room, still slightly inebriated, and she is very forceful like that.” She allowed a smirk to play across her muzzle. “And she may restrain you to the bed if you insist on moving around.”

“I can tell by the look on your face that you'd enjoy that...” Rarity could feel the heat in her cheeks, mouth agape with no rebuttal.

“Rarity, what does he mean by that?”

“N-n-n-n-nothing! I mean, it is a joke between adults, Sweetie Belle, I will tell you when you are older.” She set her face into a glare, signalling to him that she was serious. “Now, there will be no more talk of such things. Do you think you could suffer three fillies arguing over whether two plus seven is nine or eleven?”

“Really? It's maths homework?”

“Mmmhmm, my sister and her friends always have trouble with it, do you think you could help, darling?”

He gave a deep laugh, a smile finally playing at his face. “Oh yeah, I can help. I was an engineer in my old life, so maths is a must for me, so it shouldn't be a problem.”

“Wonderful! Sweetie Belle, I assume you have already eaten?” a quick nod. “Well, run along and gather your friends. I shall make us some breakfast. Hopefully I have enough to fill two farm ponies stomachs. I should think that without working all day, they would be morbidly obese with their appetites.”

“Hey! Ah heard that Rarity!Ah've seen you gorge yourself before, what was it?”

“To be fair, Applejack, that cake was asking to be eaten. And there was plenty of them to have one to myself! It took me a while to work it off too, so I've learnt my lesson. Now, are you staying for something to eat?”

“Sure, Ah'll stay, but Flutters and Brae have left. Think they're going eat out for breakfast. They forgot to get changed though.” Rarity started to giggle, steady getting louder until it was full on laughter, Applejack joining her at the image of Braeburn walking through town wearing that. Something on the floor caught Rarity's eye, and she floated it up to see the forgotten photograph.

“Oh my... I think Fluttershy left something behind. Tell me, Applejack, where did this photo come from?” The orange mare looked over it once, her face becoming one of horror.

“Oh Celestia, Ah thought that was a dream. Uh, Rarity, don't go in to ya inspiration room before Ah've had a chance to...uh, 'clear up', would ya?” It was too late. As soon as she heard what room it was, she took of, returning with some small bits of paper in her magic.

“Now then what have we here? Alec, darling, even though you are not a pony, would you like to help me judge their 'artistic' abilities?”

“Sure, why not. Let's start with the first one.” She floated it over to him, and he gave it a good look. “Rarity, where did she get something like this?”

“Simple, darling, I made it. Don't look like that, this is the only clothing establishment in Ponyville, of course I would make things of a more adult nature. It is only when asked and to order, which is why nothing is on display. I didn't expect her to find my personal collection, however.”

“This is yours? I don't want to know. What's next?”

“Oh, it's just Fluttershy being as adorable as ever, as per usual.” The picture was floated on to the dresser in the room. “Oh my... take a look at this one, darling!” The next one was floated over to the bed, and he looked it, then to AJ, then the picture, then to AJ again.

“Where the hell did you get those apples from?”

“What apples? Ah don't remember any apples.” He turned the photo round so she could see it. “Rarity, Ah'll do anything you want as long as you never show that picture to anypony... ever.”

“Hmm, I may just hold you to that Applejack, but judging by these next two, you're going to owe me quite a few favours!” They were both set down at the foot of the bed, so all three could see them.

“Uh, Rarity, can Ah see the next one?” She gave it a quick peek, before shrugging and showing it to the mare. “Yeah, that's what Ah thought. Can Ah have that one? Ah got an idea for it.”

“Of course darling.” It was floated over to her, and she slipped it under her hat. “Applejack.”

“Yes, Rarity?”

“Where did you find... this?” A hand shot forward and snatched it away before she could react. She turned to see him smiling at her. “What is so funny?”

“Well, you're having a pop a AJ for these, and now there is one of you. A bit hypocritical of you, isn't it?”

“Two.”

“What?”

“There are two of me.” She passed the last on over to him, and he gave it a look, before setting it down on the bed.

“Maybe you should use this for advertising your 'back room' ensemble?”

“No!” They were swept up and she made sure neither him nor Applejack could reach them. “These are meant for Th..... ahem, a certain... stallion.”

“Well why 'aven't ya sent them to 'im yet??”

“Because I'm going to ask Dash to deliver them when she goes back to the Academy!”

“Oh, so y'all got your eyes on a Wonderbolt, huh?”

“Well... not quite a Wonderbolt. Now enough of this, it is breakfast time!” She turned and strode to the kitchen, forgetting to take the photographs. The sounds of pots and pans banging came through as he stretched up to the shelf, retrieving the pictures. He leant over and whispered to Applejack.

“Take these to Dash, and don't tell Rarity. Get her to deliver them. I think, for some reason, she'll know who it is.”

“Sure Sugarcube, Ah'll be right back. Gotta make a slight detour as well.”

The stallion wiped his light brown mane out of his face, getting rid of some of the sweat as well. He'd have to talk to Applejack about getting some equipment to clear some tree roots from the eastern field, but she had told him before that he could find the best deal, then let her know and she'd give him the money for it. Unfortunately, this time he'd need to go to Canterlot, as nopony in Ponyville had something big enough. He pushed open the door to his tavern, which also doubled as his home. He collected his mail, as he was always gone before it came whenever he worked the farm.

Opening a set of curtains, he started to sort it in to three separate piles, a well rehearsed routine. “Bill, bill, junk, bill, junk, junk, definitely junk,” he tossed the letter with two gold lightning bolts on it straight in the bin. “When will she get it into her head that we're through! What's next? Bill, bill, junk, junk, letter from mom and dad, junk, bill, hello, what's this?” The letter in question was in a plain white envelope, a single blue horseshoe matching his cutie mark on it.

He tore it open, watching as a single item fell, hitting the floor face down. Cautiously he flipped it over, but what awaited him made him smile. He picked up the photograph and trotted to his private quarters, placing it on the mantelpiece next to the picture of his tavern opening, the same mare stood next to him after dropping off her first delivery of cider.

“Looks like I'm going to need to have a talk with Big Mac...” He quickly went to his bathroom to dunk his head in some cold water, and then set off back towards Sweet Apple Acres. Little did he realise there was a pair of emerald eyes watching, shining with delight as she saw where the picture had been placed.

A young colt ran down the hall to the front door of his house, where the bell had just rang. He cracked it open to see two cheery grinned, blue pegasi, one with magenta eyes and a rainbow mane, the other with green eyes dark blue mane. Even without the uniforms, the colt still recognized them. He filled his lungs with air to yell in excitement, but he was blocked by two blue fore hooves before he could exhale. “Easy squirt, this is just a quick visit. Is your brother home?”

“Yes Miss Dash, he's in the back. Would you like me to get him for you?” The colt stared googly eyed at one of his idols and one of their recruits. His brother may have been one a well, but nothing beats an actual Wonderbolt!

“Nah, can you just give him this please?” Dash handed him a white envelope, emblazoned with three blue diamonds. “And whatever you do, don't peek!” He threw up a quick salute, well, the best a colt could do, and they said their goodbyes. He closed the door and trotted towards his brothers room, wondering why the envelope smelt of marshmallows. Shaking his head, he knocked on the door, and slipped in, seeing his brother just getting out of bed.

“Mail call!”

The stallion groaned and pulled a pillow over his head. “Dude, I'm not at the academy now, quieten down would ya!”

“Sorry bro, but you got a letter. Miss Dash and Mr Soarin just delivered it.”

“Lt Soarin was here? Was it important?”

“I don't think so, the mark on here doesn't match anypony's that I recognise.” The stallion took the envelope and opened it, eyes going wide at the contents. “Is it bad? Bro, what's wrong?”

“Nothing little guy, and no it's not bad. What time is it?”

“Around half nine.”

“Good, we got plenty of time. We'll get something to eat, then head to the train station to go meet mom, dad, and our cousins in Canterlot on the one o'clock train. Plus, I need to make a side trip. I hope Rose has some blue ones in.” He slipped the photo into his saddlebags, not giving the young colt a chance to see it.

After breakfast I offered to do the dishes, but was ushered out of the kitchen by two very adamant mares saying that I should still be resting. Which is why I found myself in Sweetie Belle's room, trying to teach three fillies some year seven maths, (that's 6th grade for all you yanks.), and they had just broken into the umpteenth argument. “That's not right Applebloom! You've done it wrong again!”

“Ah have not!! Ah did it the way you said!! You jus' gave me the wrong numbers! What did you get, Sweetie Belle?”

“I... got a fish.” Leaning over the table, I saw she had indeed drawn a fish, having given up halfway through the problem. Sitting back, I sighed. Again.

“Okay girls, how about we work through this together? Applebloom, you tell me what the question is.”

“It's eight hundred and sixty two point sixteen plus a hundred and thirty seven point eighty four.” I wrote it down in the flip chart we were using.

“Okay, Sweetie Belle, what do we do first?”

“Add the numbers after the decimal point, starting at the far right.”

“Good. So, what's first?”

“Six plus four, which is ten. And you carry the one.”

“Good. And the next one?”

“One plus eight, which is nine, and you add the one from before, making ten again.”

“And where do we put the one, this time... Scootaloo?”

“It goes across the other side of the decimal point.”

“Good, would you like to get us started on the bigger numbers?”

“Two plus seven plus one is ten, making it zero again, and you carry the one.”

“Good. And the next one?”

“Six plus three plus one is ten, again, and you carry the one.”

“That's where Ah got confused. How can ya carry the one when there ain't no numbers above it?”

“That one, because there is no number above it, becomes the number above it.”

“So the answer is... a thousand?” I patted the bow-wearing filly on the head.

“Yes, that's correct. Do you understand how to do it now?”

“Yes, Mr Luckes, thanks fer explaining it.”

“No worries. I'm going to get us some drinks, you girls carry on.” I hobbled my way down the stairs, seeing Rarity with a customer. Applejack had long since left, saying something about making sure Big Mac was resting and making sure her help was still working. The customer's eyes went wide and I could see her shaking with fear.

“Hmm?” Rarity looked over her shoulder at me. “Oh, don't mind him, darling, he's harmless. Well, that's not true, but he's not a threat to us anyway. So, how are they doing?”

“Not too bad, we had a few arguments about who was right, but once I got them to work through the problems they got the sums right. I've come down to get some refreshments.”

“You shouldn't be doing that! You could've called, and I would have got them for you!”

“I'm fine Rarity, it's just a dull throb in my shin now.”

“Excuse me?” We turned to the mare still waiting. “What problems are you talking about?”

“Oh, he's helping Sweetie Belle and her friends with their maths homework.” Her eyes suddenly went wide. “Oh my! Was she supposed to do it herself?”

“No, no, it's not a problem, I'm just glad she is getting help before class on Monday, unlike some other students.” She hopped down from the stage she was on and slowly made her way towards me. “Are... you... a teacher?”

“No, I'm a... was an engineer, so I had to know my maths. And science, but other than, I haven't got a clue.”

“I see. Could you... would you come to the school on Monday?”

“You want me to what?”

“Well, I could do with some help in maths, this class don't seem to be getting to grips with it.” I looked to Rarity to see her smile and nod, indicating this was something I should do.

“Uh, sure. But what I freak the foals out?”

“I'll be sure to tell them about you before you come in. Now, Rarity, have you got all the measurements you need?”

“Yes darling, and your... outfit will be ready in a few days, I'll get Sweetie Belle to pass on when to pick it up.”

“Thanks Rarity, and I'll see you Monday.” With that the mare left the store, whilst I continued to stare at Rarity.

“Something the matter?”

“Yeah, two things... one, who was that? Two, what the fuck did I just agree to?”

“That was Cheerliee, the local teacher. And you just agreed to help Sweetie Belle's class with the maths problems.”

“Shit.” There was a knock on the door, and Rarity went over to open it, revealing a whole host of ponies, namely her friends and a few tag a longs. Twilight looked up from to ground as Rarity looked down. I hobbled over and looked past her shoulder. Lying on the floor was a single blue rose, with a dark grey feather crossing it.

“Oh... my.” I looked up to see a grin on Dash's face, as well as the three ponies stood next to her. Rarity picked the items with her magic and headed upstairs, all of us watching her. She came back down with a blissful smile on her face, before finally noticing how many ponies were in her shop. “Oh... my, this was unexpected. To what do we owe this pleasure?”

Twilight stepped forward, a clear look of unease on her face. “I'm sorry Alec, but we've come to take you to Canterlot, Celestia and Luna would like a word with you.” I then saw gold reflecting in through the door way, very brightly. The only way it was possible was if there was a lot of metal outside. Which could only mean one thing.

“I assume they think I won't come quietly?”

“What makes you say that? They just want a chat.” The way her eyes went everywhere except mine told me the truth.

“You know that I can take them, right? Even with my leg like this?”

“I know... and I don't want things to go like that. Please, they just want to talk.” She finally looked at me, but not my face. Instead her gaze drifted to my side, and I followed it. I then realised that I had been backing away, ending up at the table with my weapons on it, hand resting on the rifle butt. “Please...”

“Call them off... and I'll come with you.” I looked round at the assembled ponies, each and every one of them with fear on their faces. “I'll even leave all my weapons behind.” Twilight's ears perked at that, and she trotted out of the door. The gold shining from outside flared briefly, and then it disappeared upwards. Must have all been pegasi. Twilight came trotting back in, with one guard remaining. I couldn't see his face, and his armour was different. He must have been someone very important.

“I'm sorry, but he insisted that he stay with us for safety.” I watched as the pony raised a hoof, lifting the visor, revealing the scowling face of Shining Armour. His expression was something that could make nightmares have nightmares.

Author's Note

...........whoops.

So........we now have CaraJack.....yeah, yeah, another 'cliché' ship!!! And for those of you screaming he's already got a filly friend......go back and read that section!!!!!

Right, someone must know who I've chosen for Rarity by now! I couldn't make it any more obvious unless I said his name!!!
So that's TwiMac, SoarDash, FlutterBurn, CaraJack, Rarity????.........and that leaves Pinkie Pie!!!
Only one stallion to guess. I'll give you a slight hint....he is named in the show!

Chapter 11: CFG - Canterlot Fried Griffon!

The walk to the train station was a slow one, due to my leg not being fully healed yet. It gave me an opportunity to get a better look at the other ponies in the group. Three of them were flitting around, signing bits of paper and having their photos taken. Must've been some celebrities, and I was curious as to how they knew the girls. Speaking of them, they all currently had a gold necklace on, with jewels of their cutie marks. Twilight, however, had a tiara on, with a purple star on top. It had been bugging me for the last few minutes. “Hey, Twilight?”

“Yes?”

“What's with the jewellery?”

“Oh, um... we want to... look nice?” She clearly wasn't telling me the full story, and the less than enthused stare I was given her wasn't working. I had to find out some way, and I was informed about them from the pony following directly behind me.

“My sister and her friends are the Bearers of the Elements of Harmony. Which are, in effect, very powerful weapons. I suggest you stay quiet and keep walking.” I took his advice and kept moving. The whole way seemed to have been cleared for us beforehand, as ponies were keeping to the side of the street. We eventually made it to the station, not even paying for tickets due to 'royal' business. Finding a whole carriage empty, we started to filter in.

Dash went with the three celebrities, Fluttershy, Braeburn, Caramel and Applejack took the furthest compartment, leaving me with Pinkie, Rarity, Twilight, and Armour. Looking in, I saw it only had four seat, which was a bit of a problem. Until..... “Oh... it looks like I will have to sit in another carriage.” I tried to follow her gaze out of the window, just catching sight of a two tone grey tail disappearing, and Rarity turned to look at me. “Behave yourself, would you please darling? I don't want to have to be called back.”

With that, she trotted off down the carriage and into the next one. Twilight just shook her head and sat down, the rest of us following. “So, how long will it take by train?”

“Around four hours, why?”

“I'm going to try and catch up on some lost sleep.” I sank against the cushions and closed my eyes, signalling the end of conversation for the moment.

Thunderlane had just managed to get Rumble to calm down, as the little colt was buzzing from all the sugar he had on his pancakes that morning. Coupled with his natural enthusiasm, plus the thought of see their cousins, he had rushed around the house doing his chores, then spent a few hours insisting they went on an earlier train. Thunderlane finally gave in as his ears couldn't take it any more.

Now Rumble was looking out of the window, waiting for the train to depart. Thunderlane was looking past him when he heard a slight click, turning to see the door to the compartment opening. A long strand of curled purple mane came through, followed by the head of a white unicorn. “I hope I'm not intruding, but I was wondering if....oh, Thunderlane! What a pleasant surprise! Do you mind if I join you and your brother?”

Rumble watched with faint amusement as his brother sat up straighter, suddenly unsure of what to say. A quick nod was given, and Rarity trotted in, turning to close the door. Rumble got a quick peek at her cutie mark, remembering that he had seen it that morning. Thunderlane could see the look on his brothers face, and gave his head a shake in warning, just before Rarity turned back around and sat opposite the stallion.

Unseen to him before, there was a blue rose resting behind one of her ears, it's colour matching her eyes perfectly, also framing her face perfectly. There was only one thought going through his head and, like most stallions, he had a tendency to say it without thinking. “Beautiful...”

“Why yes, it is! Thank you Thunderlane, I found it outside my boutique this morning. It was quite a surprise I tell you!”

“What? I didn't... I... I mean... buck. I just said that out loud, didn't I?” He dropped his gaze to the floor, closing his eyes and waiting for the door to open and shut again. He heard a quick shuffling noise and looked up to see Rumble now sitting where Rarity was, the seat next to him empty. The door hadn't opened, so that left only one possibility. He swallowed once and looked to his left, finding Rarity leaning forward to look out the window. Throwing caution to the wind, he eased his wing out, and gently brushed it against her shoulder. She turned slightly to see what it was, before slowly leaning back, resting against Thunderlane's side. Just her being there gave him the confidence to carry on. “I... wasn't talking about the rose, I was talking about you, Miss Belle.”

“Oh... I was not aware you knew of my last name.” She raised a hoof and turned him to face her, their muzzles dangerously close. “Please, just call me Rarity.” The only sound from the other side of the compartment as they kissed was what you would expect from a young colt.

“Eww!! Thunderlane's going to get cooties!!!”

I was walking down the main street of Ponyville early in the morning, but something wasn't right. There should have been ponies here, opening shops and heading to work. It had taken them long enough to get used to me, you'd think they would be okay when I told them Sarah had turned up. There was the library, our destination so I could introduce her to Twilight. I tired to open the door but found it locked, so I gave a few loud knocks. “Twilight! Hey Twilight, I've got someone I want you to meet!”

A window on the second floor cracked open slightly. “What are you doing with one of them here? Go, get out of here before the guard comes for you!”Before I could reply the window was slammed shut, and I turned around to see a few Royal Guards waiting. And by a few, I mean a few hundred. I grabbed Sarah and we slowly moved away, the ponies following us. Their eyes had a different colour, yellow instead of blue, and I didn't know what that signified. One leapt for us and I batted him away, watching as he dodged my blow and continued for Sarah. I managed to grab his rear hooves and throw him back. This kept happening till we reached the station.

They then attacked as a group, several holding me down whilst the others crept closer to Sarah. A train pulled in to the station, stopping right behind her. Another human stepped out and easily swept the ponies aside. I looked up to see Simon above me smiling, before he turned round. “Look at that, can't even fight hard enough for you. Come on Sarah, let's leave this pathetic excuse of meat for those savages.”

I had heard enough. Grabbing hold of his belt, I pulled myself to his level, arm across his shoulders. I could see the ponies ready to attack again, but had more pressing matters to deal with. The moon started to rise, covering the streets in darkness. The guards all let out piercing screams and vanished in clouds of ash, as if they had just been vaporised, leaving just me, Sarah, and Simon. I leapt at him and pinned him to the ground, my hands around his throat. “I CAN protect her from them... and I WILL protect her from YOU!” I could feel my fingers tightened around his windpipe, crushing it. He tried to punch me in the face, but I just shrugged to blow off.

It did manage to tilt my head up, and I noticed Sarah was no longer stood there. Instead it was a blue alicorn, dark mane floating on a non existing breeze. Her eyes finally came in to focus as she leant forward. “Stop.....please. This is not your friend, you know this. Only bad things can come from this.” I looked down again to see Simon's face had changed. He was still breathing, but he was pale white with blue hair and blue eyes...

I slowly awoke from my dream, feeling something furry in my grip, and a feeble pounding on my arm. I could faintly hear someone straining for breath, and I promptly ignored it, imaging it was a residual sound. But then came the voices... “Twilight, why can't you help?”

“I don't know Pinkie!!! Alec, please wake up!!! Stop doing that, he was only concerned for our safety!! ALEC... YOU'RE GOING TO KILL HIM!!! I snapped my eyes open at the shout, taking the scene in at a glance. Twilight and Pinkie were almost in tears, staring to my side. I followed their gaze and saw my hand around Shining Armour's throat, squeezing tightly. Instantly I let go and backed away as he started to cough, Twilight rushing to his side. “Just breath Shiny, try to calm down.” She lifted her head and looked at me, a... apologetic look on her face. “Was... that another nightmare?”

“How do you know about that?”

“Rarity... told me. Do you want... to talk about it?”

“Twilight, there is something more important than that right now... your brother.” She returned her attention to the stallion to see he was now unconscious. She leant down her ear so that it was level to his chest.

“He's alive... barely.” I looked out the window to see the train slowing down, and the edges of Canterlot just coming in to view. “We'll need to get him to the hospital as soon as possible.”

Rumble hopped down from the carriage, allowing his brother to step down behind him and offer a hoof to Rarity to help her down. Just as she was abut to accept, a shout from behind got her worried, and Thunderlane angry. “MOVE!! CLEAR THE WAY!!”

“You'd best watch what you say, mister! I'll have you know...” His eyes widen as a bipedal creature came out, carrying a pony on his shoulder. Rarity turned her head and then ungracefully jumped out of the carriage. “What... the buck are you?”

“Thunderlane, dear, that is my guest I was telling you about.” He stepped out of the way, letting the thing go by. It started running down the street, and that's when he noticed Rainbow in the air in front of him. “It seems Shining Armour has had an accident. I shall catch up with him later, shall we, my dear?" Together, with Rumble leading the way, they trotted off towards the residential district.

I kept up with Rainbow as best as I could, but after ten minutes of running I lost her. I saw the glint of gold and headed that direction, coming across two guards. I was approaching from behind and made them jump as I dumped Armour on one of their backs. The unencumbered one looked at me confused. “He had... an accident on the train, needs to get to the hospital, but I lost my guide.”

“No worries sir, we will get him there.” With that they trotted off, leaving me alone in the middle of the street. And that's when I realised I didn't know where I was. I had told Twilight to head to the castle, and that I would meet them there. I caught a glimpse of something moving in the shadow of an alley, and it made me curious. Upon entering, I could hear a male voice.

“So the captain is out of commission? This will make our plans easier! You three, you know where to head, I will go and confront our gracious Lord Grimclaw and announce our plans.” There were what sounded like two squawks, and one whimper. “If you want to see your hatchlings again, you will keep your end of the bargain!” I looked up in time to see a feathered creature take off and head for the sky, and three more creeping along the wall in the shadows. Whatever these were, I'm sure the guard could handle them, so I would track these three.

Good thing I had lied to Twilight about my weapons... she didn't know about the six inch, serrated edge, titanium combat knife that I had safely hidden in my boot. It seemed that it might see action soon.

Luna was in her private sanctuary, a place only known to her personal guard and Celestia. There were only two ways to get there, a secret tunnel from the castle, of which those chosen few new, or to fly up or ascend the mountain to reach the small balcony looking down over Canterlot. This is where she used the night sky as her canvas, painting the sky with stars. Unbeknownst to her was the long forgotten escape tunnel, which amounted to nothing more then a stair way carved into the rock eons ago... by her mother and father.

It was only midday, but she couldn't sleep, not till she had spoken to him about his dream. She tried to understand what it was about, why he would attack another of his kind, one that he knew. Deep in her reverie, she didn't notice the claws being gently placed down on the floor. The assassin took out it's crossbow and took aim, right for her heart.

She was still looking over the city when she heard a pained grunt from behind her. “Now that was strange...that sound like a... GRIFFON!!!!” As she turned, the bolt was let loose, but missed it's target and embedded into the wall. The reason the griffon marksbird had missed was because it was being pinned to the floor. With him stood on it's back, squeezing the wings at the joints.

The griffon let out a hiss of pain as the other two shook off their shock, turning to face the new threat. His eyes open and they locked with Luna's, who just smiled at him and nodded. His eyes were yellow. His hand fell to the side and grabbed something in his boot, pulling out a shiny knife. It was plunged into the first griffon's face as the second took a swipe, knocking him off balance. The griffon advanced, expecting him to try and regain his balance. Instead he rolled with it, thrusting the knife into the griffon's chest as it leapt above him. They fell to the floor in a heap and he pushed the body of him, looking to the third one. Luna looked as well and saw that it was a female one, ready with another shot with the crossbow. She opened her beak a few times, before taking a deep breath. “I'm sorry, Princess Luna, but I must ensure my chicks safety.” Before she could take aim, he ran at her and knocked her out the window, slashing at a wing with his knife.

Luna watched as they both went over the balcony, the griffon with an injured wing, and him with no natural way of flight. Even with his enhanced abilities, he could not survive a fall from this height. She leapt after them, but even as her heart pushed her to greater efforts, her mind told her that she would not make it in time.

“I'm sorry to hear that, my friend. Perhaps she just needs time to herself, I am sure she will return soon, with your grandchicks as well.” Celestia lifted her cup and took a sip, smiling to the griffon sat across from her. He and his son had come to Canterlot to discuss troubling matters that they may need outside help with. The older griffon lifted his head and sighed.

“I am sorry to burden you with this, Celestia, but that is not what we are here to discuss. There has been some...disturbing news of late. Rumours of griffons moving in the shadows against me...and some say that there are ponies aiding them. Ponies dressed in the Royal Armour of Equestria.” His gaze hardened at the solar alicorn, and she gently set her cup down and returned the expression.

“Lord Grimclaw... in the many years I have known you, I have only helped. Why would I send ponies to assist in removing you, when I could easily do it myself, and put somepony else on the griffon throne? No, Garrard, I think you have been given false information.” The door to the throne rooms was pushed open, and a massive griffon walked in. It's entire body was almost white feathers, with the exception of his beak, which was jet black.

“Princess Celestia is correct, my lord. There were no ponies, they were young fledglings who had created the outfits for simple fun, nothing more.”

“Are you sure of this, Commander Blackbeak?”

“Yes my lord... for I was the one who had them created. NOW!” Over half the griffon guards in the room suddenly attacked the others, and had sealed the throne room off. After a quick melee, the traitorous griffons had subdued all others inside, blocking off the doors. Blackbeak strode towards Grimclaw, when the young one stood near the Emperor stepped forward, challenging him. “Back down, whelp, or you'll never see your chicks again! Grimclaw! The time of your rule has come to an end! The Blackbeaks will take your place, and usher in a new era for the Griffon Empire! To do so, we must cast out current allies and replace them! Do not look at me Celestia, it was a Grimclaw that killed your sister!!”

Before anything could react, blue smoke appeared in the middle of the room. A dimmed flash went off and Luna stepped from the smoke, smiling at everything in there. “Hello dear sister! Whats wrong, you look like you've seen a ghost!”

The large griffon blocked her advance to the dais. “YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO BE DEAD!!”

Luna looked down at her chest, her back, and her flanks. “Well, I must say I look pretty good for dead, wouldn't you agree? Now, I give you this one chance to stop this madness.”

“NEVER, I WILL RESTORE THE HONOUR OF THE GRIFFON RACE!!”

“Okay then, but don't blame me.” She leant forward and kissed his cheeky, happily skipping around him and sitting next to her sister. “Is something the matter, Celestia?”

“Luna, what are you doing?”

“You'll see... I give him five minutes left alive, if that.” She said, wavering her hoof at Commander Blackbeak.

Rainbow had searched for him for a couple of hours now, but eventually even she gave up. If three fully trained Wonderbolts couldn't find him, then she had no chance. After meeting up with Spitfire, Rapidfire, and her new coltfriend Soarin, they decided that they would head to the castle for lunch, and do some stunt practice. As the crested the castle walls, they noticed to objects falling from the mountains rapidly. To the keen pegasi eyes, one looked like a griffon having trouble flying, and the other... well, even they couldn't tell what it was. Neither looked like they would land safely.

A blue speck soon followed after, but it was clear that it would not catch up in time. She saw the others fly at them, and joined in, easily catching up. Once closer they saw who the other one falling was... and he was still trying to attack the griffon, who was putting up a good fight of it's own. It's head reared back and shot forward, it's sharp beak slicing across his chest. He tumbled away, recovering enough to spread his limbs wide, slowing his descent. “DASH, SOARIN, YOU ARE GETTING THAT... WHATEVER HE IS! RAPIDFIRE, WITH ME ON THE GRIFFON! GO!”

They split into two separate trails, Rainbow and Soarin increasing their angles of ascent, easily catching up to him. He looked at them and she saw his eyes were yellow..which meant he might try to eat her or something. “HEY!! ARE YOU WITH US??” He looked around a couple of times, then to the ground, before locking eyes with her.

“HOW ABOUT WE TALK ABOUT THIS ON THE FUCKING GROUND? STOP ME DYING ALREADY WOULD YA!” Soarin shot underneath him and slowed him down, allowing Dash to come along side and take some of the weight. They gently glided down to the gardens, where they saw Spitfire and Rapidfire standing over the griffon. “Mmm, time for some overgrown chicken! I haven't had any meat for a while!”

“STOP!” He halted his advances and turned to face Rainbow, who was staring intently at the griffon. She trotted over and raised the maimed wing from it's face. “G... Gilda?” The griffons head snapped up, locking gazes before shooting out her claws and hugging Dash, crying her eyes out.

“I'm sorry Dash! I didn't have a choice... they have my chicks!” Rainbow saw him approaching from behind, knife in hand. She shook her head at him, and he reluctantly backed away. Luna finally touched down and stood over them. “Please... princess, you can punish me anyway you see fit... but please don't punish my family!”

“Do not despair, Gilda Grimclaw, for we are your allies, and we will help you. Now, what do you know?”

“It's Commander Blackbeak, he's trying to overthrow Garrad... I mean father... they snatched my chicks away and forced me to do this to ensure their safety. Please, if there is anything you can do to help...” Luna looked away, before seeing him leaning against a tree, hand over his chest.

“Alec, could you assist me please?”

“Sorry, not right now.”

“And why not?”

“Bleeding hasn't stopped... powers ran out.”

“I see.” She closed her eyes in concentration, attempting to figure out a plan. “Aha! I have it! Dash, could you and your friends escort Gilda to the infirmary? Her wounds need taking care off.” Rainbow nodded and the pegasi carefully lifted the griffon up, spreading the weight out across their backs. Luna waited until the castle doors closed, before summoning a tankard and filling it with magic. “And now the second part of my plan. It seems that the more you get used to this, the more control you have over it. Twilight told me that you did not... embrace her the way you did me when you drank her magic. I do wish to know why, but that can wait. For now, drink this, and you can do anything you want to me.”

The cup was floated over to him and he plucked it out of the air. “What are you talking about?”

“Just drink.” He shrugged, and downed the mug, clutching his chest in pain as the wound slowly closed over. Once it was finished, he looked like he did when he arrived..but this time Luna was ready for him. As he leapt for her, she took off, flying out of range of his jumps. “You can have me once you make sure Celestia is safe. Before you engage any griffons, ensure that they are not Grimclaws. Do you understand?”

He stood up straight and saluted, keeping it there till Luna disappeared in a puff of smoke. He turned to the closed doors and growled once, then charged at them.

I ran down the corridors of Canterlot Castle, following Luna's scent. I still wasn't sure what she was on about, but at least I had regained control. Smashing through yet another blocked door, I grabbed the griffon by the tail, noticing it's black beak and slamming it hard enough into the wall that it's head stayed embedded in the concrete. I was about to carry one when a voice from behind a closed door stopped me. “See, I told you the rumours were true! Another princess in Equestria. Looks like we'll have to take care of this one too!”

“Stay back! I don't want to hurt you, but I will if I have to!” Twilight? But... I have to save Celestia! She can take care of herself right? I heard crashing from inside followed by a scream. Fuck it, Twilight first! I knocked on the door and waited for it to open, hiding in the shadows of an alcove. A griffon poked it's head out and looked round.

“Must have been an all clear signal. Come on, we have to show Commander Blackbeak that we have another one. He'll want her alive as well!” You dumb fucks... you really are overgrown chickens. I tapped on the wall behind me, and the griffon returned with another, Twilight unconscious on it's back with her wings and fore hooves tied behind her back. The lead griffon stuck his head in to the shadows. “Who's in there?”

“Knock knock motherfucker!” It didn't have time to scream as I plunged the knife into its eye, and it fell to the floor twitching. The other one dropped Twilight and tried to flee... but this knife was perfect for throwing. Unfortunately I missed, allowing him to escape. I retrieved the knife, cutting her free and gently shaking her awake. Her eyes slowly opened and she looked at me in fear. “Hide, I'll find you when it's over, I promise.” She looked down to the dead griffon and almost puked, before nodding and disappearing in a flash. I saw griffons and ponies fighting other griffons further along, near the entrance to the throne room, where Luna's scent went. I sucked in a deep breath...

All had gone quite in the throne room, and the fighting outside could be heard perfectly. An roar, loud and almost feral, shook the very thrones Celestia and Luna were sitting on. Then came a booming shout. “ALL PONIES AND GRIMCLAWS WITHDRAW! I WILL DEAL WITH THEM!” They heard the sound of hooves and claws retreating, and for a moment silence. Then came the sounds of fighting once more, but it steadily got quieter. They heard another voice.

“Stop! You may have beaten them, but I am the elite you will never get passoooofff.” The throne room door splinted in the middle, a bloody Blackbeak's head poking through. It was pulled backwards and a smiling face replaced it.

“Hello Luna, I've been looking for you!” The door was thrust open, and he walked in, carrying a griffon's severed head. “Which way to the kitchen? I'm hungry!” The remaining Blackbeaks dropped their weapons, lying close the the floor. Commander Blackbeak grabbed a spear and screamed.

“You are all afraid of that? I will show you how a true warrior fights!” He charged forward, but was stopped by a spear hitting him in the chest. A female Blackbeak strode forward, standing over the downed griffon. “B-b-b-bella!! Why would you do this?”

“Because you are not what we need for a proper Griffon Empire!” She pulled out a knife and plunged it into his chest, turning as she pulled it out. “Goodbye, father. Prince Grimclaw, your chicks are safe. I saw to that myself before I came here. I place myself into your custody.” She knelt low to the floor, but before anypony could respond, they all turned the the filly like giggling coming from the dias.

“Stop... that tickles... Please, I can't take much more.” Luna was leaning backwards against him, whilst he happily nibbled on one of her ears again, running his hands through her extended wings. Luna's cheeks turned pink when she opened her eyes and saw she had an audience...

Author's Note

But none of you were expecting that, right?

And I know, I didn't get to the Pinkie ship! Next chapter I promise! It will be a couple of days, as I've got an inspection due. Gives you plenty of time to speculate on who she's getting with. And yes, he lives in Canterlot.

Chapter 12

Pinkie had decided to leave the castle, much to the protest of Twilight. She simply shrugged and said everything would be fine, then proceeded to skip out of the doors, blissfully ignorant to the world around her. Or so it seemed. I should tell them, it's not very often I get what is actually going to fall when my twitchy tail goes off, but I think he can handle it. Besides, Dash will be there in time. Ponies scattered out of the way of the mare, who had her eyes closed and was heading to her destination using muscle memory, as she had been there plenty of times before.

She stopped outside, smiling as she saw that the morning rush had just ended, the usual few ponies remaining. She trotted round the back, finding the spare key under the mat as usual. Silently unlocking the door, she slipped in very quietly, heading up the stairs.

The stallion behind the counter finished wiping down the side, and took a stack of dirty plates out the back. He turned on the tap, filling a sink up and placing them in to soak. He was about to return to the store front when a piece of fabric was slipped over his eyes. He smiled, knowing just who the pony was. “Pinkie... that's meant to stay in the bedroom... at least whilst I'm open.”

“Awww... I wanted to have some fun.”

“Well, why don't you get ready... and I'll be up in five. I'll get the colt to look after the shop for a while.” He felt a set of lips press against his, and then heard hoof steps back away. He took the blindfold off to see that the mare had disappeared. He shook his head at her antics, so used to her 'ninja' skills, as he called them. He trotted out to the store front to see his employee. Nearly everypony had the biggest shock of their lives when they saw his assistant, having never expected to see him inside, let alone working there. “Hey, Blueblood, you're watching the store for a bit. Miss PP has just showed up.”

“Of course, sir, but... could you make sure the door is closed this time?” The stallion chuckled at him, nodding and turning around. Since a strange happening at the Gala a couple of years ago, the prince had taken jobs all over the city. Apparently, some mare at the event had told him a few homes truths, and it opened his eyes. He finally settled on the little patisserie, and had told the stallion it was to honour a mare he had disrespected. He had even managed to score himself a mare recently. She had her share of problems as well, something to do with Twilight Sparkle.

Once Twilight had became a princess, Trixie Lulamoon had a complete turnaround overnight. She even had a permanent place in the Canterlot Talent Show. He'd been to see it with Pinkie a few times, and he had to admit, her part was impressive. He shook the thoughts from his head and trotted up the stairs to his small apartment, closing the door behind him. The lights were switched off from the other side of the room, and he turned to see Pinkie Pie framed by candlelight from the bedroom.

“I have been waiting for you. You've been a bad colt, haven't you?”

“Yes... .Mistress Pie.”

“Well, come on then. You need to be punished... and I've got a sweet donut for you to eat, Joe.”

Garrard Grimclaw looked on with amusement as the strange creature continued to... play with Luna, either not knowing or not caring what it was doing. He knew there was something strange about this thing when he saw its eyes change from yellow to blue a while ago. Luna just sat there with a frustrated look on her face. The griffon was one of the world, and knew just how sensitive pegasi's wings could be... doubly so for alicorns. He'd have to see about the ear nibbling though. He turned his attention to Celestia, who still had that strange smile upon her face, one that over the years had made her all the more... desirable. “So... what is that thing? And where can I get one?”

“He is from a world far away, and a time long ago. It is not my place to say, but if he wishes to tell you, then...”

“Nah, I'm good here.” They both looked round to see Luna's ears were finally free, but covered in saliva. She was still far from being able to talk though. “Your sister said I could do anything I wanted to with her once I caught up, so yeah, a little busy here.” He started to nibble on her ear again, biting slightly harder and earning a squeak from Luna, who scrunched her eyes up. Celestia caught the sound of hoof steps coming in, and turned to see Twilight and four of her friends, plus two stallions and a colt she didn't recognise. A colt with very good eyesight, and brimming with innocent questions.

“Thunderlane, why is that hooman eating Princess Luna?” The stallion in question looked up, trying to think of a suitable answer. Not longer able to suffer the embarrassment, Luna's horn flashed and she teleported away. Garrard noted that the 'hooman' seemed to be displeased with this, getting up from the throne and stalking towards the colt. The white mare next to them blocked his advance.

“Stay where you are, the colt had a perfectly reasonable question. Just what were you doing, Alec?”

“Having fun.”

“I could see that! Now why were you going after Rumble?”

“Was going to tell him just what I was doing.” The stallion put his wings over the colt's ears.

“He does NOT need to know about that yet! He's only ten!”

“And? I learnt all about it when I was eight, was how the curriculum went. Now then little colt, when a mare and a stallion love each other very mucoooofh.” He was sent to the floor and back six feet by a lavender pressure wave, and looked up to see Twilight with a very unamused glare on her face.

“Three hours. For three hours.... I waited inside a linen closet for you. And you never came. The worst part is... it was dirty laundry.” He shot up, trying to keep a straight face, but it didn't last long, promptly falling back down and bursting out with laughter. “I don't know what's so funny, YOU didn't keep your promise!!”

“Yeah... yes..hold on, give me a minute!!” He took a few deep breaths to calm down. “If your remember, I promised to find you when it was all over. I've only came to my senses around ten minutes ago. Well, my full senses anyway. I was about to come looking for you, but the noises Luna was making... I couldn't stop.”

“Full body covered? I guess she made the ropes too tight again, hmm?” Joe turned to the blue unicorn mare stood at the counter, amusement playing across her face. It was time to shut up shop, and he was resorting to do it by hoof, as he didn't have full control of his magic just yet. Trixie watched as he tried to pull the blinds down, and lit her horn up to do it for him.

“Thanks, hon. And no, she made them just tight enough.” There was a pleased grin stamped on his muzzle, causing Trixie to laugh.

“I wonder if Bluey will ever do something like that. I must admit, I am bit curious.”

“Oh hay no! No way, you are not doing that to me!” They turned to see the prince sticking his head out of the kitchen. Trixie walker over and nuzzled him, resting her head across his neck.

“I meant... would you do that... to me?” She watched as the stallion all but melted against her, his mind whisked away to the land of fantasies. Joe went upstairs, and they heard a muffled conversation, be he returned carrying a full bag.

“Here ya go, some nice easy things to get started with.” Trixie picked it up in her magic, causing the top to loosen a bit. She looked with curiosity at the red ball that was poking out.

“What exactly is this for?” She lifted it out, finding attached black straps to it, with buckles on the ends. Joe just smirked at her.

“Well, Bluey said you used to run your mouth a bit, so that is something to make sure you can't do that.” It took her a few minutes to realise what it was she was holding, and turned to see Blueblood with a creepy grin on his face.

“Don't even think about it, Blueblood!” It was too late, he lit his horn up, taking control of the bag, and started to pull a length or rope out of it. Joe trotted past him to the kitchen, whispering as he went by.

“Don't break anything, or it's coming out of your pay.” Trixie jumped when she felt the rope touch her rear left hoof, and lit her horn as well. Unfortunately for her, it was just a distraction, and she leapt right in to the path of another piece of rope, which slowly and tightly bound all four hooves together. She looked up to see Blueblood stood above her, the other object in his magic.

“Blueblood...if you even thing about using that thing on mmmmppphhh!” Satisfied his mare was secure, he lit his horn again and teleported her home, adding a spell to block magic for a few hours, just enough time to let her squirm before he joined her. He turned to see Pinkie staring at him.

“If only I was a unicorn, I could do the same with Joey... Oh well, can't win them all.” Blueblood shook his head and left the shop, locking the door behind him.

We were walking along towards the infirmary with the griffons. I gotta say, I was very intrigued by them, and I showed it. “Would you please stop poking me in the ribs? I am not some piece of meat for you to see if I am plump yet!” The older griffon walking with Celestia chuckled as he looked back at me.

“Really? Well, you look like a overgrown chicken, so I was wondering if you tasted like one as well.”

“How could you eat another sentient species? It is disgusting!”

“It's easy, really. First thing to do is make sure they are dead, this can be done a number of ways. My personal favourite is to take a sharp knife and cut the throat. The next stage is to drain the blood from the body, normally by removing the head and hanging it upside down. Once done, it's time to skin it. For something such as yourself, I'd pluck the feathers and leave the skin on, makes it crispier. Then you remove all the innards, and cook it. Serve with some vegetables and have a nice meal. I call it.....Griffa a la lemon.” The young griffon, and you could tell by the fact his chest feathers weren't that pronounced, stared at me for a moment, before turning round... and promptly spewing on the floor.

“Grosvenor, you are a griffon, this sort of thing should not disturb you.” He turned away and carried on walking with Celestia, who was watching with carefully concealed amusement. “He certainly has a warped sense of humour. Or was he being serious?” She cast another glance back, seeing Twilight berate me because of my prank.

“I am unsure, I know he eats meat, but to eat a sentient species... I do not think so. No, he does not seem the type.”

After Twilight finished her... little talk with me, she helped the griffon move on, getting the attention of a passing maid to clean up his mess. I shrugged and followed on behind, looking to see a yellow pegasus trotting next to me. “Hey Fluttershy, what's up?”

“That was mean.”

“What was?”

“What you just did. I don't think you should have done that. Especially with the current situation.”

“What? He asked! Just because I don't eat sentient species, doesn't meant I can't have some fun.”

“That was still not very kind. You should apologise.” I watched as she pulled away, the other mares following. Had I just been told off by Fluttershy? That was new. Walking briskly to catch up, I watched as the two griffons entered the infirmary wing.

“Gilda?”

“Garrard.”

“Come now, you haven't called me that since your union with Grosvenor. I am your father in law, there is nothing that can change that.”

“There is if you knew what I have done...” I peeked round the corner to see her refusing to meet the gaze of the other griffons. Grosvenor tried to take her claw in his, but she pulled away. “Don't...I am no longer worthy of being your mate, not after what part I played in this.” The young male watched as she rolled away from him, facing the opposite wall.

“Gilda... what did you do?”

“She didn't do anything, she was under the influence of a powerful drug.” The two males turned to look at me, and I strode right past them, bending down to look her in the eye. “A powerful narcotic that made her not know what she was doing. Whatever happened was not her fault, and I'm very sorry about your wing. If there is anything I can do to help, then please ask, Lady Grimclaw.” She slowly turned back over, reaching out her claw to her mate, who took it his grasp. I left the room, heading back towards the throne room. I heard hoof steps behind me and turned to see Applejack following me.

“Why did you do that?”

“Do what?”

“Lie fer her.”

“I don't know what you're talking about.”

“That's a load of manure, and ya know it!” I crossed my arms and glared back at her. She wants to play the stubborn game? During my training we were made to stand on the parade square in our underwear in the early morning. I was there for four hours. I think I can beat her.

“Let me ask you something. Something has captured Applebloom, and the only way you can get her back is to do something that you would never even considering doing. There are no other options, it is do it, or don't see your sister again. So Applejack, what would you do?”

“Ah'd... Ah'd... Ah don't know...”

“Gilda did what she did for her family, no other reason. I'm not going to punish someone because they were protecting their loved ones. She knows she's done wrong, and she is the one who will have to live with it, not us.”

“Ah... understand. But... what happened to her wing?”

“Oh... er, that was me.”

“You did this to her? You will pay with your life!” I looked up to see Grosvenor with his head out of the door. His wings were out, and he looked pissed. He gave them a couple of flaps, and got into what looked like a sprinting start position, and was about to take off when a voice from the room stopped him.

“Gros... don't. It wasn't his fault... it was Blackbeak's. If he hadn't taken our children, then we wouldn't be here right now.” He turned to face the room, a look of shame on his face. We all turned to face the sound of griffon approaching. It was a Grimclaw guard, with a basket hanging off each side of it's back it walked in to the room, and stopped by the bed. The lids were removed, and two little heads poked out, then jumped to the bed and embraced Gilda. Grosvenor approached and joined them. All the ponies and Garrard backed out and stopped next to me and Applejack, Celestia looking to me.

“Alec, we have to talk. The rest of you, go do whatever you wish. And Twilight?” She stopped and looked back over her shoulder at us, wondering what Celestia was after. “I have already sent a letter, and it instructs him to head to your old lodgings in the library. He should arrive within the hour.” Twilight smiled and disappeared in lavender flash.

“Just what was that about?”

“Never mind, although it has something to do with what I wish to talk about with you. Now, Luna. What exactly are your intentions in that regard?”

“Well, to be completely honest, I don't know.” Her eyes narrowed at me, and I leant back against the corridor wall, checking both ways to make sure we are alone. “I don't know about this day and age with my species, as they've probably met others, but back in my time... relations with those not of yours were looked down upon. In fact in most cultures you would be sent to prison for it. I know what I have done with her, and what it seems like, but...”

“I... understand. But you will have to explain this to Luna. And she is not as forgiving as me.”

“Well... fuck.”

Big Mac followed the guard to the base of a set of stairs, turning just below them and heading through a door at the bottom, but the guard stopped him with a hoof. “Sorry sir, this is for the guards. Your destination is on the third floor, this is where I will be if you require anything. Oh, and one more thing sir? He turned to look back from the bottom of the stairs. “Don't hurt Princess Sparkle, she has been very dear to those in the castle, even when she was a filly.”

“Eeyup, Ah can tell. Don't y'all worry, Ah'll treat her right.” They nodded to each other and Mac started on his way, stopping outside the door marked library. There were a few more doors further along, but this is where the letter said to be. He nudged the door open and walked in, trotting past the first few rows, but not seeing anypony else.

He walked around a few times, trying to spot another in there. He had just given up hope and was heading back out the library to check another room when he noticed an open door to the side. O' course she'd 'ave a door right in t' a the library... best she what she's up to... As he popped his head in, he knocked on the door frame, announcing his arrival. A voice from behind a curtain bid him enter.

“Come in...I've been waiting for you.” His eyes widened and his mouth went slack, the stalk of hay fallling to the floor, when he looked to the bed. “I've been naughty professor, are you here to give me detention?”

Author's Note

Only one person got it!! But, I had it in my head they've been together for a while, so was no need to make it sudden like I did with the others. And I'm sure by now, especially those of you that read my other story, have picked up that I have certain.....interests......

Oh, and whilst trying to find a pick of Gilda with a family, I came across this. It is now how she met Grosvenor.

Chapter 13

I followed Celestia into a room just off the throne room. It turned out to be her office, and there was a solid wooden chair placed in front of it. She motioned to it with a hoof, and I sat down. Before I could do anything, I saw a couple of glowing lights in the corners, and some ropes secured my wrist to the arms. I tried to pull out of them, but the ropes were very strong. “Thank you, you may leave.” Two unicorns emerged from the shadows and left the room, leaving Celestia standing behind me. “Do not worry, it is purely...”

“Kinky.”

“...for my safety.” She trotted around the desk, sitting down and opening a folder on her desk. She read through the papers inside, occasional glancing at me. It was a little disconcerting, and she closed the folder with a sigh, finally looking me in the eye. “I think we should get the unpleasant part of this out of the way first. The document I have here says that you asked Twilight for some of her magic in order to track the missing filly, Applebloom. Is this correct?”

“Yes.”

“And that upon discovering her, you entered into a deal with... ah, yes 'the alpha', but then killed him, another, and became the alpha yourself, but did not initially help the filly nor Twilight Sparkle.”

“Who the fuck gave you this report?”

“Do you really need to ask?” True, I probably could've figured it out myself, but I still wasn't sure what she was after. "You then boarded the vessel, and instead of using it to return with your own kind, you sabotaged the vessel, sent it to it's destruction, and killed any survivors.” It wasn't a question, more like she was clarifying the truth.

“That is correct. And if I may?”

“Yes?”

“They. Were. NOT. My people. I would just like to clarify that.”

“But to my understanding, they had similar abilities to your own, and were just a bit more... tribal.”

“Does that report tell you what they planned on doing?” She flipped the folder open and read through that section again, before she shook her head. “They were planning on eating your entire race. I stopped them. And yes, I am well aware of the fact I could've used parts from their ship to repair my own. I already have a different solution to that, but I don't expect it to work out.”

“I see. Well, that is all for that part. Now, your nightmares.” I dropped my gaze to the floor. “I... am unsure how to deal with this. Normally Luna would do it for me, but she has not left her room since this morning.”

“Uh...”

“Oh, you are still going to talk to her, don't worry about that!” Fuck... I'm not looking forward to that. “But anyway... may I ask what they were about? All I know is that you are having them, and it is the reason Prince Armour is in the hospital. So, if you can inform me what...”

“Sarah. They were about Sarah.”

“I... see. I do not wish to insult you, but I have not been told of her. Could you...? If you feel comfortable with it, of course.” I could feel the tears starting to build up, and I tried to move my hands to wipe them away. Celestia's horn flashed, and the ropes around my wrists disappeared.

“Sarah... was everything. I met her after I got promoted...”

Hundreds of light years away, in another galaxy...

“Morning LT, good night shift?” The young officer turned to the other one that approached from behind, a smile playing up on her face.

“Morning ma'am, and I'm surprised you haven't heard yet.”

“Heard what? It is something to do with the SF team on board my station?”

“Yes ma'am. I give you the brief details, there is a more comprehensive report being compiled now. Anyway, approximately oh three twenty Zulu we received an encrypted transmission, and got a small part of it recorded. It was a series of pulses, that repeated after a few moments. We don't know what to make of it just yet, and the techs are still trying to break the encryption.”

“Let me hear it.”

“But ma'am... the techs...”

“I want to hear it. Please...” The lieutenant turned round and flipped a switch on his terminal, and beeping started to play through the speakers. It lasted a few moments, and like he said, started again. She closed her eyes as she listened to it, remembering something from her military history lesson. “Well I be... lieutenant, stop the techs. It's not encrypted. It is the message.”

“Ma'am?”

“Do it.” The officer took off running, and came back a few minutes later.

“They've stopped. Do you know what the message says?” She put her hand into her pocket and pulled out a relic of ancient times. A notebook and pen. She sat in the command chair and marked down the noises she heard. He looked over her shoulder, but all that was there was some lines and some dots.

“I will do in a moment, I just have to find the correct information.” She tapped a few commands in to her console, and it flashed up with the same symbols, each accompanied by a letter or number.

“Morse code? What is that?”

“It is an ancient way of sending messages, using this cypher. I'm not surprised that you don't know it.” She started to translate the message. The first two words appeared, SOS, then the next came SGT, followed by LUCKES. She type the name in a personnel search box, watching as it searched active soldiers. When the results came back empty, she tried the deceased list as well. It too returned no results. She tapped her pen against her lips, then opened the missing in action list. It would take a while, as there were currently hundreds on there, their conditions unknown from when the war finished five years ago. It was the same for both sides, and now they were helping each other search. She relaxed back into the chair and closed her eyes. They snapped open again as the computer beeped, and then widened at what was on display.

One match(s) found:
SGT LUCKES, A
DOB: 11/06/1986.

She did the maths, and opened his file, quickly realising just who had sent the message. If it was really him... “Let me hear the last part of the message.” He flipped a switch and the latter half played, and she jotted it down. “It... can't be...”

“Ma'am? What is it?”

“Tell me lieutenant, what do you know of The Magic Of Friendship?”

“It was sent to the Sol system, to see if Terra could be re-inhabited at all. And then it dropped out of all known communication. Even recon flights on the edge of the galaxy didn't pick it up on their scans.”

“That is the official story, yes. The truth is that the ship was hastily built, and it could not enter the atmosphere correctly. They were ordered to return, and they acknowledged, saying they had to wait for the ground recon team to leave the planet. Two years into the war, and the ship I was serving on at the time was using Sol to conduct spying missions. We found the Friendship in orbit around Luna, and scanned it. There were no bio-signs on board. True, it was a two hundred year old vessel, but there were not even any results of remains.”

“I don't understand ma'am.”

“The latter half of that message says Sgt Luckes is trapped on an unknown world, and that he got there on the Friendship. The station has new orders. I want you to search for that signal, and locate it's origins. I'll have a word with the SF guys... and contact a... friend in the Solar Reich. If we go after that vessel without them, it could result in another war, with them as the enemy this time.”

“Ma'am?”

“You should have studied military history. Trust me, you do not want to fight them. Give the order, then knock off. Take two days, because after that... things will get busy.”

“Yes ma'am. Is it possible for me to go groundside for a bit?”

“Groundside? Why would you want to do that? Oh... this is your homeworld? In that case, take a week.”

“Thank you, Admiral Luckes, see you in a few days.” The lieutenant saluted and left the command centre as she eased back in to the chair, looking at the file still open on the terminal.

“Well hello, my great uncle. I can't wait to meet you."

Celestia looked around at the ponies seated at her long table. She had Cadence, Twilight, the other Element Bearers, and the Wonderbolt Captain Spitfire to her right. To her left was the significant others of the mares. The chair opposite her was still empty. The servants came in with the meals, but hesitated when they saw the Luna Princess was not present. Celestia nodded at them and the continued to serve. Shining Armour had opted for soup that night, as his throat was still quite sore.

She looked over to the table in the corner, where he was having his meal with the griffons. There was no talking, just eating. She too was unsure how to start a conversation. She raised her head up as she heard a heavy sigh from the corner, seeing him looking to the empty chair. He pushed his plate away and left the room. Celestia noticed that his meal remained untouched. She nodded to her guests to carry on without her, and left.

She followed at a discreet distance, following him in a seemingly random walk. This was the third time they had been down this corridor. Something peeked his interest, and he chose a different direction this time. She followed through the doorway, finding herself in Luna's private library. They had already been past her bedroom, and it was clear she was not in there.

She heard him give a chuckle, and looked over his shoulder to see what was so amusing. There was a picture on the table, and she easily recognised Luna's hoof in it. She was sitting at a table upon the balcony in her personal sanctuary, a single candle and a a dark blue rose upon it. Serving her was him.... but he was wearing nothing except a small apron, a bow tie, and cuffs from a shirt. “I look like a stripper.”

Celestia looked around the room, and spotted a pink bag marked with two blue eyes and a purple curl in the shape of an 'R'. A single glance in and she floated the bag over to him, and his eyes went wide with surprise. “Her favourite meal is fried daisies and haycakes. Head on up, I will make sure they arrive for you.”

What the fuck was I doing? I had left all my clothes outside, and now looked exactly the picture. What would my friends say? My parents? What would Sarah say? Probably something along the lines of 'If I leave before you, then I want you to be happy, and find someone else. Just don't forget me.' And the present situation... she'd say something like 'quit horsing around, just fuck her already!'

I had to admit, I was a little... okay, a lot put off by the fact she was like that, but they were the dominant species here. And very intelligent. And Luna had a wonderful person... ponyality. Her coat was nice and soft too, her wings silky to the touch. I looked down to the floor and noticed my apron had become a tent. Okay... so if it wasn't bad enough from that massage, then after tonight... probably going full native. Fuck it, who the hell is going to judge me now?

I dropped all the images from my mind and slipped in through the door quietly. The table was in the correct position, with just a candle on it. Celestia was right that I'd need the rose with me. I put the food on the side, the rose on the table, and grabbed the blindfold that I got from Pinkie Pie, creeping up behind Luna. I slipped it on over her head, and she span round, waving a hoof in the air. “Who dares to assault me in my private chambers?!”

I grabbed her flailing hoof with my hand, and her scowl turned into a smile. I led her to the table and left her there, returning with the food. “You can take that off now.” She slowly raised her hoof up, and her mouth dropped at the view she was presented with. She went to get up, but I pushed her back into the chair. "Fried daisies and haycakes, cooked just how you like them.” She gathered up a knife and fork, beginning to eat whilst I poured her a glass of wine. Before you ask, she had a stock of it up here.

The next morning finally rolled around, but Celestia was too exhausted to get out of bed, choosing to set the sun on its path and snuggle back down against her feathery pillow. Twilight awoke to find the book she was reading covered in drool, but not from her. Mac had moved in the night and the book was underneath his head. An orange mare and a golden stallion slowly peeked out from the bushes where they decided to spend the night in the gardens. The cost was clear so they hoped out, and turned right in to the path of two earth pony guards. They just smiled and continued their rounds. Soarin finally flopped back against the cloud as Dash started to snore. He knew that she had a lot of endurance from her academy records... but they didn't even scratch the surface.

Fluttershy awoke to find a set of golden hooves wrapped around her waist, and nuzzled the stallion as he slept, who came awake and returned the gesture. Rarity was working on her mane, glad to have something to take her frustrations out on. I mean, how hard would it be to give Rumble his own room? Not only that, but there had been a thunderstorm during the night for some reason, and he hadn't quite gotten past his fear of them. So she had awakened to find him pressed against her, and her against Thunderlane. After waking with Sweetie Belle in such circumstances, she just pulled him close and dozed back off for a bit.

The early morning kitchen staff came in to prepare breakfast, and wondered just what the hay had happened inside. One of the counters was covered in whipped cream, chocolate and fruit, in the vague shape of a pony. They started to argue over whether it was a mare or a stallion, before one of the younger pegasi colts gave a banana a tentative sniff. His wings shooting out from the scent finally settled the argument, and as they cleaned up they found some ropes under the mess. In the castle? There was some very kinky ponies in there last night.

In a luxurious penthouse apartment just down the road, a gold pegasi mare gulped a glass of water down, slicked back her orange and amber mane, and returned to the bedroom. It was time for round twenty seven. Two ponies ran down the road outside, one a white unicorn stallion running from a furious blue unicorn mare, yelling something about 'getting her turn' and carrying a couple of questionable items in her magic.

Gilda and Grosvenor had a chick on their back each, taking a slow walk towards the stairs at the end of the corridor, past the princesses bedrooms. They stopped as the door emblazoned with a sun opened and Garrard stepped out, his feathers ruffled. He turned to look at his son and daughter in law, nothing being said. “What?” He just turned around and carried on. The door on the opposite side opened, and the human walked out, half naked. He didn't even have his shoes on, choosing to carry them, his shirt hanging over his shoulder.

“Morning.” He went the other way to Garrard, heading to his own guest room. The two griffons looked between each other, and then back to their chicks as the girl asked something they hoped she wouldn't.

“Momma, why was granddad in Celestia's room?” They couldn't answer, and couldn't because it would mean damaging the pure innocence behind those eyes.

Author's Note

Uh oh.........are things going to get better, or worse?

And who do you think the enemy was this time round? (Human vs Human. There have been conflicts with alien races, but there is a cease fire going on, that has lasted a few hundred years. They don't interfere with us, and we leave them alone.)

Chapter 15: The Fuck was that? The Fuck is this? The Fuck are you?

“What do you mean, 'it was just some fabric'? Do you know how much it cost me to get that amount?”

“No, I don't, but you can't put a price on happiness.” The look I was receiving from Rarity could've melted battleship plating. She had queried what happen to the rest of the materials she had supplied me, and apparently 'I made a few mistakes and had to start over' is a bad thing to say to a seamstress. The only thing saving me at the moment was the door to the balcony, but I was stuck out there, holding it shut.

“That may be true, but you can certainly try! Now you get your flank in here so I kick it!”

“No!” I could see Luna and the others laughing at our exchange. I heard the flap of feathers and turned to see the Wonderbolts had returned. “Oh great, I suppose you're all on her side as well!”

Thunderlane peeked behind me and saw who I was hiding from. “Uh, no, I'm with you, especially after embarrassing me in the throne room. Here.” He flapped down and passed me one of the chairs, which I wedged under the door handle, then sat on it. I could hear Rarity pounding on the glass, sounding very frustrated that I had turned my back to her. “You know, there is another way out for you.”

“Oh yeah, and just what is that?”

“Well, you're still wearing that suit, and we are up high still. Any particular place you want to go?”

“Is it possible to glide to Ponyville from here?” Spitfire landed and gave my wing suit a once over, making sure it was okay.

“Well, we're high enough for it to be possible, but you'd have to correct for wind drift and thermal currents on the fly. Would you be able to it?”

“Would I be able to? No. Jumping from that balcony was actually the first time I'd ever done something like that. I just know the science behind it, not how to do it.”

“Hey Cap!”

“Yes Dash?”

“Didn't he put those lights on our uniforms as well?”

“So? That was so that we could fly in formatioooooh. Good thinking Rookie. Okay then, you must know about flying in formation right?”

“Yeah.”

“Then let's go!”

“Sure, just give me a sec and I'll meet you around the other side.” They went away from the door, and I stood up, removing the chair, and cracking the door open slightly, dodging the hoof that was trying to get me. “Uh... Miss Belle, could I possibly talk to Luna for a moment?” She huffed in annoyance and moved over, allowing Luna to come to the gap. “You know where you got my... outfit, if it can be called that, I wore the other night?” She nodded at me. “I'll meet you there, just don't tell Rarity.”

I leant forward and gave her a quick kiss, then took a deep breath, and ran around the corner. I heard the door bust open, and hooves hitting the wooden floor after me. The Wonderbolts were waiting on the railings, wings ready and formation lights lit. “GO!” The dove off and glided a little away. I could feel Rarity almost breathing down my neck as I jumped the railing myself, opening my winglets and gliding away. I chanced a glance back and saw things being flung through the air at me from the livid mare.

“GET YOUR FLANK BACK HERE!!! YOU ARE SO DEAD WHEN I CATCH YOU!!!”

The feeling going through me as I flew across the sky... I don't think I have, or will ever find something to compare it with. Well, unless I happened to find a pool with a forest clearing, then it would be the case of getting Luna to join me. I shook the thought out of my as Spitfire angled upwards, so I mimicked the motion, gaining more altitude from the thermals. The fact we were flying like geese probably helped give me some lift. I could see street lights and the silhouettes of buildings in the distance, and I knew I was approaching Ponyville. Dash and Thunderlane pulled ahead, clearing one of the streets along out flight path, quickly talking to the ponies.

I saw them zip off, and the streets lights went out. The ponies filtered back out, carrying torches to highlight a landing zone, and I waved to Spitfire to let her know I was opening my parachute. I pulled the cord and felt my harness bite into my shoulders, the sudden deceleration jarring my body. Considering how high Canterlot was, and how low I opened my chute, I think that might have qualified as my first HALO jump. I drifted into the town, hitting dirt just short of the target. I didn't have the chance to stand back up as a set of hooves went around my neck.

I opened my eyes to find Applebloom against my chest. There were tears in her eyes. “Hey there sweetie, what's wrong?”

“Ah just... wanted t thank you, fer saving mah life.”

“You're welcome kiddo. Now what are you doing out this late?”

“Ah was staying with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle over at Firefly's. We're having a sleepover!”

“Yeah, I am as well.”

“Who ya got with ya?”

“Just Princess Luna, not expecting anyone else.”

“Could we... join y'all?”

“I... don't know. It's more of a... adult sleepover.” I didn't let her know there wouldn't be much sleeping, but I couldn't let her keep her downcast expression. “How about this. If you and your friends behave and do well at school this week, then I'll see about a camping trip next weekend, maybe even get Luna to join us.”

“Really? You'd do that for us?”

“As long as you're good, but tell the others that it's a surprise. They have to behave as well, and they'll be rewarded.” She scampered back off towards wherever she was staying. I looked round and saw Dash had landed me right next to Carousel Boutique. I unzipped the wing suit and took it off, gathering it into my arms. “Thanks guys, I'll catch you later.”

They all waved and flew off, Thunderlane in a different direction to the others. I tried the door, and found it unlocked, so slipped in and dumped the suit in the corner. There were a few candles making a path towards my temporary room, so I followed them, and cracked open the door. It took a few moments for my eyes to adjust, but when they did my mouth made a break for the floor. Luna was waiting.

Her horn glowed and the candles behind me went out one by one till the closest disappeared. I then felt my shirt being undone, and my jeans zipper go down. I went to assist, but her magic held my hands out of the way. She wanted to strip me, and I allowed it. Once she was finished, I was again naked in front of her at full attention. “Well, you've certainly been eager today, haven't you? Come, lay with me.”

“Yes ma'am.”

Five mares, four stallions and a colt stepped off the train extremely early in the morning. They were all too tired to speak, and it had already been decided that Rumble would stay with Rarity for the night. The went their separate ways, Rumble asleep on Rarity's back, who was thankful he was no heavier than Sweetie Belle. As she got into her home and flipped on the lights, she noticed the candles on the floor. She went upstairs and put Rumble in Sweetie Belle's bed, tucking him in and giving him a kiss on the forehead.

Her curiosity piqued, she trotted back down and cracked open the door to her spare room. She wanted to berate him, but the peaceful look on his face, and the way Luna was snuggled up to him made her change her mind. She closed the door and went to her room. She didn't turn the light on until she was alone, or so she thought. She turned round to see a path of light blue roses towards her bed. Laying upon it in a seductive pose, a rose held in his mouth, was Thunderlane, who just wiggled his eyebrows at her. “Oh... my.”

Luna came awake as the door closed, and she looked around but saw nopony there. A quick glance to her side and he seemed to be in pain, but his expression soon turned in to a smile. She gathered her dream magic and lay her head across his chest. To her surprise, and intrigue, his was not the most strong signal tonight.

She found herself following a red earth pony down the corridors of Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns. The fact that he was an earth pony was strange enough, but she also couldn't focus on him enough to see who it was. She kept a discreet distance until he turned in to a classroom. She slipped through the wall to see what was happening. Once she heard his voice, his face became clear. “Now Miss Sparkle, Ah've had some complaints from t' rest o' the staff saying that yer clothes are not suitable for the school. Ah'm afraid that Ah have t' punish ya.”

“But... Dean Macintosh, what is inappropriate about this?” She leant over her desk, and her skirt was lifted up in a lavender glow.

“From Mah point of view, nothin'. But Ah still gotta give you due punishment. And Ah see y'all got the equipment ready.” Luna removed herself from the dream as Mac picked up one of the planks in his mouth. Her eyes shot open and she started to giggle. Was that Big McIntosh's or Twilight Sparkle's dream? She summoned the magic again and went to the next strongest, which belonged to the one next to her.

He was standing on the balcony of his room in Canterlot Castle, staring out into the pouring rain and flashing lightning. She turned as the door opened, and she saw herself walk in. Only, it wasn't her. She walked upright, like him, and took on the form of a female human, wearing a bit of fabric between her legs, a see through top, and carrying a pillow under her arm. The photo album was open on the side so Luna took a quick peek, noting the similarities between Sarah and 'her'. The body was exactly the same shape and size, but was covered in a layer of fur, the same as her coat. She still had a moon cutie mark on her flanks, and her wings, horn, tail and mane remained. He turned around and walked over to 'Luna', wrapping his arms around her.

“I... am scared. The thunder is too loud.”

“Then stay here, I'll keep you safe.” 'Luna' melted into him, and he carried her over to the bed. Luna remained watching, a new feeling brewing. She was jealous, because that was not her, but she was also curious and stayed to watch. She immediately had the idea to visit the library in the morning, and as she was about to leave she bumped into something. He was standing next to her. She looked to the bed to see he was also still there, but the room slowly faded away until it had changed to where she was now sleeping. He remained next to her.

“What is going on?”

“Don't ask me, it's your dream this time.”

“What do you mean?”

“You tried to enter mine again, and I blocked you. I guess when you left I got dragged along.”

“Why would you block me?”

“You really want to see this one? I must warn you, you may not like it.”

“I do.”

“Very well.” The scene changed again, and Luna saw herself in the same human type form. But this time she was dressed differently. She had a lacy bit of clothing around her waist, attached to see through clothing on her legs. She had some strange shoes on, pushing her heels in the air. She wasn't wearing anything else, but that was not the strange part. She was standing in front of her throne, legs apart. A piece of rope went from each ankle to the nearest chair leg, and her wrists were tied together and pulled over the top. Before Luna could ask what was going on, 'Alec' walked in wearing his usual clothes, stopping and looking confused at the situation.

“I've been a bad filly, can you punish me Master?” Luna whipped her head round and glared at him.

“What is the meaning of this?”

“I'm a perverted individual, or something like that. But wait, it gets worse. Or better, depending on your point of view.” Before she could ask, 'Alec' picked up a bell on the side and rang it.

“No, I will not punish you. Another will instead.” The real Luna turned her head towards the door that opened, mouth dropping at the view.

“I understand you've been a bad filly, my dear sister.” Luna opened her eyes to find him still asleep. She couldn't fault him for having such dreams, so she glanced at the clock and saw it was two thirty in the morning. She carefully extracted herself from his grip, and got herself a drink of water. Once back in the room, she saw he had changed position, now spread out across the entire bed. If she wanted to stay, she would have to lie on top of him. She was sure he wouldn't mind, and so did just that, resting her head next his on a shoulder. She started to drift off, but found herself pulled into yet another dream. This time it was a different stallion's entirely, one she had only met the other day.

For some strange reason, he was a human. Not like her in his dream, but a full on human. Luna looked around and recognised the location as being Sugarcube Corner. As if to further drive home the point, a high pitched voice sounded for the doorway to the kitchen. “Come and get them Joe!” Like Luna in his last dream, she was barely wearing anything, and covering her ample breasts were a few cupcakes, which Joe took time to savour. Luna shook her head and cut flow to all her magic. She had seen enough of these dreams to know where this was going.

I awoke to find Luna lying on top of me. I didn't mind, but I really needed a piss. I tried to push her off but she just snuggled closer. I was going to have to hold it. “Well what do we have here? A human on Equestria? I wonder why I didn't sense it sooner.” I looked above me to see a... thing. It looked like a massive snake, but was a mismatch of creatures. I did the only thing I could. I screamed.

“AHHHHHH! RARITY, GET MY GUN!! THERE'S A MONSTER IN THE HOUSE!!” I head hoofsteps gallop down the stairs, and Rarity and Thunderlane burst through the door, one of my metal cases held in her magic. She took the entire scene at a glance, scowling at the creature standing above us.

“Discord.”

“Yes, Miss Rarity? Found any good rocks lately?”

“It would do you good to leave my guests alone. Especially him.”

“Very well, I'll go and see Sunbutt for a while.” It disappeared in a flash, leaving us alone.

“THE FUCK WAS THAT?” I felt Luna nuzzle my chin, rolling into the crook of my shoulder.

“That was Discord, a very annoying draconequus. He is the Spirit of Chaos, and likes to prank ponies day and night. I do not know where he has been recently.”

“He's only just met me, and he knows what I am.”

“Discord has been around for millennia, so it is possible he has visited your world.”

“Makes some sort of sense. Now I hate sound rude, but could you move?”

“You don't want me here any more?”

“No, I just don't want to piss the bed!”

“Oh” Luna rolled off me and allowed me to stand. I ran straight to the bathroom and relieved myself, letting out a satisfied sigh. I returned to the room to find Luna gone, a note on the bed. I picked it up and read it.

I am sorry to have to leave, but I have some things to check out.
I will return this evening, but for now I understand you have school.

Luna XXX.

There was a feather accompanying it, and I brought it to my nose, giving a sniff. Looks like I had something to keep with me today. I went to shower and found it in use. Okay, so breakfast first. I headed down into the kitchen and found Rarity setting four places at the table. “Morning Rarity.”

“Good morning.” Sheesh, she's still pissed? Better play this safe.

“So, when did you get back?”

“Early this morning. I had to bring Rumble home because of your stunt taking Thunderlane away.”

“Sorry.”

“Don't be. I found said stallion on my bed after putting Rumble to sleep. He's in the shower now.”

“Oh. And where's Rumble?”

“Doing a little errand for me, and then you are taking him to school. You said you'd help out today, remember?”

“Yeah, I know. I hope he knows the way.”

“Oh don't worry, he'll get you there.” We heard the bell to the shop ring, and a couple of voices enter. “Ah, there his now with my new assistant.”

Rumble came trotting in, proudly beaming at his well done job. “Miss Belle, Mr Catalyst has arrived!”

“That's Prince Catalyst, Rumble.”

“Yes sir, I'm sorry.”

“Don't worry, you didn't know.”

“Oh, I had no idea that royalty was being sent. I would have cleaned up more.” I finally looked round at the Catalyst, eyes going wide at what I saw. It was like a pony-insect hybrid. It's pupiless eyes looked wrong.

“THE FUCK IS THIS?”

“This is Prince Catalyst, Alec, a changeling. Prince Catalyst, this is Alec, a human from another world.”

“Hello.”

“Are you a bug or pony?”

“ALEC! That is very rude of you! Apologise at once!”

“For what? It was a reasonable question.”

“It's okay Miss Rarity, I can answer this. Changelings, as our name implies are shape shifters. We feed off love, and I can see you don't understand. I won't bother trying to explain it. Anyway, a while back we were starving, and my mother was convinced that the only course of action was to invade Equestria and take the love by force. She was wrong.”

“Again, I apologise for what happened to your brothers and sisters. If we had known...”

“Miss Rarity, we knew the risk when we attacked, so please, stop. Anyway we failed, and it turns out that the ponies would have helped if we had just asked. Reparations have been made, and now we work getting the love we need providing services to ponies where needed.”

“At least you have chosen a better profession than most.”

“What's wrong with the others choice?”

“They're whores.” I stared at the changeling. He was blunt and to the point, so I had no problems believing him. “Think about it, we can change forms. A pony, or something else, comes in with a request that can't be satisfied else where. We need love, so we provide for their needs. I took this job because Miss Rarity could do with a model to make clothes on that can change shapes and sizes. And there is plenty of residual love in this town to keep me fed for years.”

“Right...” Thunderlane came trotting in to the kitchen, finally out of the shower. “Guess it's my turn, I'll be back in a bit.” I didn't take long in the shower, ate my breakfast, and walked with Rumble to the school house. We met up with the three fillies along the way, and I noticed Rumble was looking at them with a new found interest. Mainly their flanks.

I waited outside whilst Cheerilee took attendance, and I heard myself called in. I entered the door and the foals immediately stared at me. “THE BUCK ARE YOU?”

“DIAMOND TIARA, LANGUAGE! And this is Mr Luckes, he is here to help with your maths work.”

I slumped down into a chair in Rarity's sitting room. The day had been exhausting, and I had wound up with a new job. School caretaker. I had noticed that a lot of the facilities were in a state of disrepair, and after asking found out they had been for a while. After maths in the morning I headed in to Ponyville and purchased some tools with the bits Celestia had given me. I spent the afternoon fixing the playground, holes in the roof, wobbly chairs, and more. A mug of cider was floated into my view, and I took hold of it. It was ice cold, and I took a satisfying draught of it. “How was your day? No, don't turn around, this is a surprise.”

I took another drink, finishing the mug. I put it down on the table in front of me and settled back against the cushions. I heard hoofsteps coming my way, or so I thought. A pair of furry blue hands were put over my eyes. “Um... hello? May I ask you name?”

“Only if you close your eyes and wait till I say you can peek.” That sounds like Luna, but they have hands. Smells like her as well.

“You have my word.” I closed my eyes and felt the hands removed, the hoofsteps moving in front of me.

“Open them.” I did as instructed and stood before me... "Do you like what you see?" I just nodded, unable to speak. “You look like you had a rough day. Why don't you come to bed?” She held out her hand, and I accepted it. This was going to be interesting.

Chapter 16

Turns out fixing things around the school had been a good idea. The past week was spent fixing houses, public items like benches and such. The biggest challenge was the playground in the park. I wasn't a civil engineer, but even I though it should be condemned. I refused all payments, as Rarity wasn't charging me to stay or eat at hers. Surprisingly, she had no problems with me eating meat… as long as she was out of the house. So last night was spent, at her insistence as the girls were having a get together, in Caramel’s bar. I didn't pay for one drink.

I hadn't seen Luna all week either, but she is a princess, so it is to be expected. So when I awoke that Friday morning to intense pleasure, it was easy to understand my surprise. I lifted my head up a little to see something bobbing up and down under the covers. Peeking out at the edges were the tips of blue wings. I reached my hand under the covers and ran it through the mane I expected to find, Luna’s head pushing into my palm and then carrying on.

There was a solid knock on the door and the young woman rolled out of her cot, pulling on a robe and brushing her hair out of her face. “Enter.” The door slid open and she could make out three figures standing in the corridor. One entered and closed the door behind him, allowing her to get a good look. “Fleet Admiral, I wasn't expecting you,” she glanced at the display on her desk. “So damn early. What can I do for you sir?”

“Well, a cup of some really strong coffee would be nice, Julie Andrews.” She turned to her kitchenette and started to boil some water, getting two mugs out of a cupboard. “And I would like to know why you changed the stations standing orders without notifying me first.”

“I want to be sure.”

“Be sure about what, exactly?” She handed him her personal data pad, files still open. He gave them a once over and shrugged. “I don’t understand, it’s just a flight plan for a fleet. Good to know you’re keeping your skills sharp.”

“It’s not an exercise, sir. Check the source materials.” He minimized the fleet details and studied the open personnel file, then the intercepted message. It was a set of lines and dots, with a translation underneath it.

“So what did you want to be sure about?”

“The region of space where the signal originated. It’s the Chaos Region.” He flipped back to the fleet movement screen and saw that it was directed to a zone that was surrounded by red lines, cutting that area out of all possible navigation. “He was on board the Friendship, sir. I think he’s there.”

“And what does the Solar Reich have to do with this?”

“It was one of their ships, sir. It is only fair that they accompany us. Plus… they have tech that would benefit us in the Chaos Region.” He looked over the ship movements again, and the message they received.

“Have you spoke to them about tagging along?”

“Yes sir. That’s why I've named their ships on the flight plan. I just need authorization to take a few of mine along as well.” He flicked back to the file of the soldier, reading through it carefully. His eyes lingered on the name and photo for a good five minutes.

“Very well. You have a go, Admiral Luckes. Bring him home.”

“Thank you sir. And don’t worry, we won’t leave without him… dad.”

“Well good morning. And what are we so happy about today?” I looked round from the oven to see Rarity leaning against the door frame, a smile playing across her features. “Or did you forget what you promised my sister and her friends?”

“No Rarity, I remember. In fact we’re going to be having some good fun out there, as long as Twilight translated the maps I requested. I guess I'm happy because I've just been visited by Luna.”

“Oh… I see. And what are you doing now?”

“Breakfast.”

“I didn’t know you could cook.”

“You never asked. Now you go get Thunderlane and I’ll set up down here.”

“But… how did you know he stayed over last night?” I could see the panic in her eyes, the way she avoided my gaze, and her hoofs shifting on the floor.

“Well… you may want to, I don’t know, soundproof your room or something before Sweetie Belle stays over again. You’re pretty noisy.”

“Just... carry on with breakfast.”

“Yes ma’am.” It was a simple affair. I was missing the bacon and sausages, but we had eggs, hash browns, fried bread, toast, and a few other bits. Thunderlane left for work a short while later, and Rarity busied herself sorting out the stores finances. I cleaned up and reset the kitchen, before heading to the library. The door was open so I just walked in. “Morning Twilight.”

There was a thud from the kitchen and a quick, but hushed, conversation, before I heard the back door open and close. Twilight’s head popped out of the doorway. “Morning Alec, how can I help you today?”

“Well for one, you might want remove that stalk of hay from your mane. And next time tell Mac to just go out the front door.” Her face visibly flushed as she looked to the floor. “Come on Twi, is it that bad really?”

“No, it’s just… well.”

“Twilight, you can say it.”

“It’s that I’m a princess, and he’s... I don’t mean to sound rude, but well, he’s a… a common pony. I’m… I don’t think I’m supposed to be with him. It goes against protocol.” She emphasized by waving her hoof.

“So?”

“SO? SO? How does that help me?”

“Does he make you happy?” She closed her eyes as her breathing steadied. Her mouth started to curl upwards, resulting in a massive grin.

“…yes.”

“Then hear me when I say this.” She opened hers and finally met my gaze. “Fuck what everyone else thinks. If you want to be with him, then be with him, don’t hide it.”

“…I guess you’re right. Why should I care? If he is the pony I like…no, the pony I love, then why shouldn’t I show it? They may not agree, but… I don’t bucking care!”

“Language, Princess Sparkle! What would the court say hearing you utter such things?” We stared at each other as straight faced as possible. I couldn’t keep it up, feeling myself start to smile, and that was it, we both burst out with laughter. “I can tell you needed that! Now as to my visit, have you managed to finish those maps?

“Yes, they are done. Why would you want a gridded map of Ponyville?”

“It’s to help the girls with some more maths. Figure if they learn it whilst doing something fun, it may stick in their heads a bit better.”

“That’s quite a good idea. Do you have any idea where you’re going yet?”

“Yeah, we’re going here.” I tapped to section of the map, signifying our camping area. “It’s got a nice view of the town, so I thought it’d make a good spot.”

“When do you leave?”

“I’ll pick them up from school, and we’ll go straight away.”

“Could I ask you take Spike along as well? I understand that you’re taking Rumble and Pipsqueak along.”

“Sure. In fact, that will probably work out for the best.”

“Monday night I touched her on the ankle; Tuesday I touched her on the knee; On Wednesday night success! I lifted up her dress; Thursday night well, oh! Cor blimey; Friday night I had my had upon it; Saturday night she gave my balls a tweak; And Sunday after supper, I rammed the fuc…”

“ALEC!” I turned back to the group following me, see the attentive faces of three fillies, two colts, and one teenage dragon along with the very shocked face of Princess Luna. “Perhaps you should think about what you were about to sing?”

I stood there confused for a few moments as I went through the song in my mind. “...oh. Uh… so no more singing for now then?”

“Do you have something for children?”

“Not really, no.”

“Then, yes, stop singing.” We carried on in silence till we hit our camping spot. Just as I thought, we had a brilliant view of the local countryside, and due to the fact there was hardly any light pollution, could see the stars very clearly. I started by putting mine and Luna’s tent up, showing the kids how to do it. I split them in two groups, Spike and the colts, and the three fillies. Hey, I was in Scouts, I know what goes on a co-ed camps!

Anyway, after around an hour, which was filled with forty minutes of arguing between the fillies, I check on their progress. The tents were up and stable, with just a few adjustments needed. It was pretty late by then, and the foals were all tired, so we bid them good night and they were away. I sat on the cliff edge with my legs dangling down. I felt a head rest on my shoulder and saw a bottle floated in front of me. “You’re pretty good with children. That is nice to see. But what are all these lines in the ground, and what is that contraption that they all point to?”

“You’ll see in the morning. All it depends on is what time Celestia drops by for a visit.”

“Are you planning on pranking my sister? If so, then it is a losing battle you will be fighting.”

“Nope, not me. I’m just giving the tools out for use.”

“You mean the colts and fillies?”

“And Spike. Now we have him, it’ll make thing easier.”

“I… see. I think. Anyway, why don’t we retire for the night? I understand you have a gruelling day planned for them starting right away.”

“Yep. For a start, they’re going to have to catch breakfast.”

"I see what you mean by having to catch breakfast!" I was pinned to the ground under Luna, whilst Spike rummaged through my pockets looking for the key to the food locker. I had spent the last half an hour running around the woods with the foals chasing me. They started to slow down, and Luna decided that they had had enough, and joined in. A triumphant shout from my side drew our attention, and we saw Spike walking away with the keys in his claw. Luna turned her face back to me. "You can wait for breakfast. What you did was down right cruel, and further mmmmpppphhh!" I had cut her off by shoving my head up and kissing her deeply. I heard the sound of 'awws' and retching from beside me as I pulled away.

"No thanks, I'm not hungry. I've just had a taste of the sweetest thing here!" Luna smirked and rolled off me, so I got started with cooking breakfast. After we finished, Luna took Scootalo and Rumble down to the nearby river to wash the dishes. The others helped me clear everything else away. Once they returned I passed the maps out, but I only had four. Before I could say anything, they had already paired up, Rumble again going with Scootaloo, Pipsqeak with Applebloom, and Spike with Sweetie Belle. Luna sat down next to me and rested her head on my shoulder. "Now then, a skill that I find very handy. Map reading."

"So then Twilight, how are you and that hunk of a pony getting on?" Her cheeks visibly flushed as some of the other ponies shot her quick glares. Celestia smiled from behind her teacup, they were sitting in a corner booth of Sugarcube Corner.

"We're getting on fine, but some of the mares in town have been avoiding me recently... and even ignore me when I do bump in to them."

"Really?" She glanced at the ponies who's ears were perked in their direction, and raised her voice. "If these mare are jealous that he chose you over them, then let them be jealous! He loves you, Twilight, don't let anypony else tell you that."

"Thank you... wait a minute, how do you know he loves me?" She raised her eyebrows as Celestia tried to sink in to the seat.

"Well, he... uh, might have sent me a letter or two asking about you when you first arrived. Or maybe even twenty. And that was in your first month here."

"Twenty letters? He... loves me that much?"

"I can tell you, without a doubt, that the answer is yes, if his last one from during the week is any indication." Celestia's horn flashed, and a scroll dropped to the table, a moon sigil sealing it. "Oh, what's this? A letter from Luna?" She unrolled it and place it down on the table.

'Dear sister, could you and Twilight Sparkle head to Ponyville park? There is something I wish you to see.'

"Shall, we then Twilight?"

"Yes, why not. And who knows, maybe there'll be a certain farmer out for a walk?" She had a little giggle, they paid their bill, and trotted out of the bakery.

"Right then, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, you two are on spotting duty. Scootaloo, you're on reloading duty. Spike, you're helping me make ready. Rumble, Pipsqueak, you're on aiming duty. Luna, is the letter ready?"

"Yes, I shall send it when you ask." A small cloud drifted over us and stopped over an old bath tub I had placed up here during the week. Rainbow Dash appeared and jumped on the cloud, making the water fall in to the tub. I grabbed my other supplies and got busy.

Ten minutes later and the bucket was loaded. I nodded to Luna and she sent the note. Nothing happened for a few minutes, and then Applebloom got really excited. "Ah see them, Ah see them! They're leaving Sugarcube Corner, and headin' to the park!"

"Good. Sweetie Belle, what angle is the park from here?" She bent over the map. protractor in hoof. I watched as she placed it on the mark of the camp site, placing a ruler on top, making a line to the park.

"Um... it's... thirty seven degrees to the left." Luna bent down and double checked, then nodded to me.

"Okay, how far is the park?"

"It's... seven hundred and fifty metres."

"Okay, Scootaloo, load the first batch." I watched the multi coloured balls be placed gently in the bucket, which was then set on the rollers. I grabbed my notepad and pan I brought with me and made a few calculations.

"Okay Spike, start turning." We started to work on the crank, the pulley system pulling the ropes taught. I kept an eye on the tenisometer that I had attached, and let it get to what I worked out we needed. Once there, it automatically locked on the pins, the lever going tense. "Rumble, Pip, you're up. Thirty seven left, twenty three up." The two colts got to work, setting the long barrel to the right settings. The made sure it was in the right place and nodded to me "Luna, do you want the honours?"

"Sure... what do I do?"

"When Applebloom gives you the signal, pull that level back, and sit down to watch the metaphorical fireworks."

Celestia sat smilling among the ponies in the park. They had come across Applejack, Caramel, Big Mac, Braeburn and Fluttershy sharing a picnic. Rarity and Thunderlane came by a while later, and they could see Rainbow Dash's tail hanging off a cloud. It was a very peaceful day, and she just let her worries drift away with the very gentle breeze.

An object blocked out the sun for a moment, and she turned in that direction, noticing some small spherical objects flying through the air. Before she could ask anypony if they knew what these things were, they started to drop towards the ground. They seemed to be getting bigger... and then it hit her.

It was a small balloon, filled with water. Water that was now all over her face. By the time she realised this, the others had caught up. They pelted her body, and she heard screams from around her as other ponies were hit. After working ou what was going on, all but Rarity was laughing. "My beautiful mane! It's ruined!" Thankfully, Thunderlane was on hoof to calm her down.

"Ruined? Rarity, if anything, wet mane makes you look even sexier." She stopped panicking and stared at him, before leaping at him and kissing him passionately. Celestia's ears perked as she heard a distinct voice shout in the distance.

"BOOM, HEADSHOT!!!!! RELOAD, AND LET'S GO AGAIN!!!" She could hear a clanking noise, and a few minutes later more of these objects came flying through the air, raining down upon them.

"If it's a prank war he wants, then it's a prank war he'll get." She smiled to herself as she reached her mind out. 'Oh Discord!! I have need of your services!'

Author's Note

........shit. That's not good. Story is still on haitus, as I've only got my tablet at the moment and it's very awkward to write things on. Laptop isn't due back till the 28th, so probably nothing else till the end of the month. Sorry guys.

Chapter 17

The day had gone well. The kids ended up having a battle with Celestia, Discord, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash. Celestia and Pinkie were firing back with duplicates of the cannon. Discord had summoned his own version, which had multiple barrels. Dash was flying back and forth, perfoming bombing runs. Problem is they ran out of ammo, where as Discord just kept summoning more, forcing them to put up the white flag. He eventually got bored and turned his weapon on Celestia, the kids rolling with laughter after looking through the telescope to find her dyed pink.

That afternoon they did some orienteering, and after dinner, to which everypony joined in with, Luna taught them how to navigate using the stars. Eventually they were left alone again, and soon the foals started to get sleepy, but they were only feining it. After around half an hour, Rumble cracked open his eyes and peeked out of his tent, seeing the smouldering remains of the camp fire. He nudged Pipsqueak, who in turn nudged Spike. He looked the other way and saw Scootaloo waving at him, letting them know they were ready.

They gathered their bags and snuck past the other tent very carefully, not wanting to wake the occupants. Once they were out of ear shot, they started walking to the cave the had spotted earlier, Luna's lesson helping in the dark. Once there, they made sure it was empty, and Spike used his fire breath to light some candles. Rumble and Pip laid some blankets on top of each other so they had something soft to sit on. The fillies had brought along the snacks, and were placing them around. Once everything was set, Rumble got a battered cardboard box out and revealed the game inside.

If there were any adults around, they would snatch the game away and explain why they should not be playing it at their age. Unfortunately for them, there was an adult nearby, sitting just outside the cave. Fortunatley for them, he knew what was in the box, and after seeing them take note of the cave, had placed a camera inside it. He was only there to make sure they could get back to camp safe, and nothing would attack them during the night.

Once the board was laid out, the spinner in the midde with the cards next to it, they rolled a die to see who would go first. Sweetie Belle rolled a six, and set it off with a flick of her hoof. It slowly spun round before endig up pointing at Rumble. "And now the fun begins! Rumble, truth or dare?"

"Truth."

She reached forward and picked up the first card, cheeks flushing as she read. Out of the three, Sweetie Belle was the most mature, so knew exactly what it said. "Okay, have you... ever t-touched... yourself? If so, when?"

"Uh... I, um..." He sank down to the ground as he tried to think of away out of it.

"Come on dude, this is how it's played! Or did Thunderlane not explain it to you?" He whipped his head up and glared at Pip.

"Fine! Yes, I have touched myself, and it was the other night! Happy now?" Ignoring the open mouthed ponies and dragon staring at him, and slapped the spinner. The others attention returned to the board, waiting with anticipation as it started to slow. It finally came to a rest facing Pipsqueak, and Rumble smiled cruely. "Okay Pip, truth or dare?"

"Dare."

"I dare you to kiss..." Rumble watched as the fillies eyes lit up, Applebloom's especially. "...Spike."

"Huh?"

"Kiss who now?" The sound of laughter came into the cave, and they all started to panic. A light shined through the cave, and Alec walking in, a big grin on his face. They scrambled to cover up the game, but he put his hand down on it.

"How about we stop playing and get back to bed? But I believe the rules state that the game is not finished until the current question or dare is completed. So, Pip... wait, where's Spike?"

"He is outside, hiding behind me!"

"Thanks Luna. Come on then, back to camp. Oh, and I think I'll keep hold of this for tonight." He picked up the game and placed it away, smiling at the ponies. "What's the matter Applebloom?"

"It's jus' Ah... Ah mean Ah... nevermind." She cast a glance a Pipsqueak, and then trotted out the cave. Alec picked up the rest of the stuff, waited for them to leave, and them picked up the camera. He smiled and then led them back to camp, and after checking that there would not be a repeat of their little escapade, went back into his tent and snuggled down next to Luna.

"So, how did you know they had that with them?" She rolled over and draped a foreleg across his chest.

"Easy, Thunderlane told me he had it. He saw Rumble sneaking out of his room and found it missing."

"I see. Why did you stop it when you did?" She nestled her head against his shoulder.

"Are you kidding? I didn't want them to start fighting. You heard what Rumble dared him to do. I would've punched him as soon as he said it if that was me."

"Mmhm. It is quite peaceful out here, don't you think?" Before he could answer, she started nibbling his neck, placing her hoof under the cover, and rubbing it over his underwear.

"Luna, do you have to? There are foals present." She stopped wit her hoof at the tip, leaving him at full attention.

"That's true I suppose. Very well, sweet dreams." She rolled over and rested her head on the pillow.

"Oh, you bitch. I'll get you back for this, trust me." He turned to his side and allowed her to press back against him, rolling on to one arm as he held the other around her. She nuzzled her head under his chin and smiled. She couldn't wait.

I slowly awoke to someone prodding my shoulder, and rolled over to find Sweetie Belle with a big grin on her face. "Morning Sweetie, what can I do for you?"

"For me? Nothing. I've come to let you know breakfast is on." I looked past her and saw the others crowded round the cooking equipment. It was quite cloudy out, and the ground was wet, so they had put an umbrella up. "It shouldn't be too long." She trotted over to the table where Spike was laying out the dishes.

I rolled back over as Luna went from asleep to dozing, and kissed the back of her neck. "Mmm, good morning." She flipped over and kissed my cheek, then finally opened her eyes. "Oh, the weather has changed! This changes things."

"Yeah, I know. We'll pack things away after breakfast and then head back. I don't want to be stuck on the ridge if it starts pissing down. You go ahead, I'm going to get changed." She drew her head back and started pouting.

"Don't you want me to see that body of yours?" She darted in and gave my neck a lick, pulling away with a grin on her face.

"As much I want to say yes, the kids are up and cooking. I need you to make sure they don't burn... any of it really." She smiled and clambered across me, making sure to accentuate the movement of her hips.

I closed my eyes to clear my head, and waited for her to leave. Once free, I moved to the far end of the tent and to my bag. Reaching in something felt weird, and as I pulled out the clothes I knew what it was. There was a hole in tent, and it had pooled in the corner where my stuff was stored, soaking through the bag... and my clothes.

For now, I grabbed the blanket and wrapped it around me. After breakfast, much to the disappointment of the kids, we packed the tents and other bits away. Once done, I picked up the majority of them, and we started off back down the hill. Luna dropped back and walked beside me. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine." That was bullshit, I was freezing my tits off, due to the fact the clothes I was wearing were still damp.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure. Let's just get these six home safe."

"Fine." She stomped off in a huff, and I just shook my head. Whatever that was about could wait.

Sweetie Belle trotted through the door to Carousel Boutique, seeking out her sister. She tried the workroom, kitchen, and sitting room, finally finding her hanging out the washing. "Rarity!" She swooped round and pulled Sweetie Belle in to a hug.

"Hello Sweetie Belle! What brings you here so soon?"

"Miss Cheerilee asked my to make sure Mr Luckes was okay. Can I see him?"

"Oh, and I thought you may have wanted to see me!" The smirk she was giving told Sweetie that she was joking. "As for Alec, well..." ACHOOO "He's not very well at the moment." Her ears twitched and turned in the direction of the building. "IF YOU ARE OUT OF BE AGAIN, I WILL SEND A LETTER TO LUNA! Sorry Sweetie Belle, he is a little sick at the moment, and Nurse Redheart said he must rest."

"Oh. So... he can't help us tonight then?" Rarity nodded at the downcast filly. "Well... we'll just have to go to the farm and get Mr McIntosh to help us."

"Make sure you tell mother and father where you are going." With a nod and hug the little filly was on her way, a quick stop to tell her parents where she would be and then leaving, meeting up with Pipsqueak on the way. They carried on to Scootaloo's house, smiling as Firefly answered the door to their enquiries.

"Sorry you two, but Scootaloo isn't here right now. She's off somewhere with this charming little pegasus colt. So rare to find one with manners such as his these days." They smiled to each other and headed towrds the park, arriving just in time to see Rumble leaning back against the arm rest of a bench as Scootaloo leaned forward, eyes shut and lips pursed.

Rumble pushed further back, and fell over it, ending up on the floor. "Ow, that hurt!" Taking her chance, Scootaloo jumped over and landed on top of him, again bringing her muzzle close to his. Rumble shook his disorientation off and pushed her away. "Look, I like you Scootaloo, but don't you think we're a little... young to have special someponies?"

This got her attention, and she suddenly flipped from affectionate to angry. "Too young? You're never too young for love!"

"But I don't love you, I just like you!"

"You... don't love me? But... I thought... that..." Rumble looked up to see something he had never imagined he would. He had caused filly to cry. Before he could apologise, Scootaloo tore off out of the park. He gave chase, but even being able to fly, couldn't catch her when she was on her scooter. He plopped down in the midde of the street and hung his head. What would Thunderlane say? His parents? What about when her sister found out? How could he spend his life hiding from...

"Heya squirt." He shot up in shook, eyes staring forward with pinpricked pupils as the voice from behind him spoke.

"Hello Miss Dash."

"Heh, you can drop the 'miss' part, I'm barley twenty! So, care to explain what just happened?" The colt's mouth shut, so she trotted in front of him and sat down. "You know I was watching right? That I heard everything you said?" He finally looked her in the eyes.

"You... did?"

"Yep, and I agree with you. You are too young to have a fillyfriend, and Scootaloo is way too young to have a coltfriend. But what about in, say, three years time? Or six even? Would you give her a chance then?"

"Well... she is quite pretty." A dreamy smile had gone across his face as he closed his eyes.

"Whoa, slow down there colt! Get that kind of image out of your mind!" His eyes snapped open and he saw his wings unfurled to his side, cheeks turning pink in an instant. "Well, at least you know you shouldn't be having those thoughts just yet! I gotta fly, so next time you see Scoots, just be polite and she'll get over it." Rainbow took off, revealing that Sweetie Belle and Pipsqueak had been sitting behind her the whole time.

"Rumble? Do you want me to go talk to her?"

"No thank you, Sweetie. I will sort this out."

"Okay then. Now, I was going to ask if you and Scootaloo wanted to come to Applebloom's to work on our maths, but I think we should all just go home." The two colts nodded and after saying their farewells they went in three separate directions.

"IF YOU ARE OUT OF BE AGAIN, I WILL SEND A LETTER TO LUNA!" I ignored the shout from outside and made my way into the kitchen looking for something to eat. After finding nothing of interest in the fridge, I thought I'd look in the cupboards, but upon shutting the door found myself pushed to the floor and face to face with an eerily calm Rarity. "And what do you think you are doing, hmm?"

"Getting something to eat. I'm not that sick!"

"Would you then please explain why I was able to put you down with minimal magic effort?" I avoided her gaze as I looked around the room. "I thought not. What did Nurse Redheart say?"

"At least two days bed rest, I know. It's been one day and I'm bored shitless. I need to do something!"

"What you can do is get back in to bed, and why not work on that game of yours?"

"It's finished. I did the final coding last night, now all it needs is a test."

"Well, why don't I help you then?"

"I don't think it's your kind of game. The idea is to find and destroy your oppenents equipment."

"Sounds fun. You go get it ready and I will get some snacks together." I nodded and stood back up, heading to my room. Once inside I picked up one the storage boxes and pulled out the double computer I hade made by salvaging equipment from my ship. I let the software boot up as Rarity came in, levitating a tray of assorted foods and drinks in, placing it by the bed. "So, what is it called?"

"Back in my time, Battleships. You have two grids, one to place your ships on, and one to use for targeting. The original game had a ten by ten grid for each one, but as this is computer powered, I changed it a little. It is now ten by ten by ten, makes things more interesting." I turned one of the screens round to show her how to play. "Okay, so you set your ships up, and the can be placed one of three ways. They can go front to back, left to right, or up to down." I quickly placed a few units, making sure to include the new axis.

"I see. So how do we 'hit' them if they are in the air?"

"Well, for simplicity, I have given each axis a letter. So, back to front is 'a'. If you want to hit this square here," I highlighted one on the bottom level. "It would be 'a3, b8, c1'. And for the one above it, you would use 'a3, b8, c2'. Think you can work it out?"

"I shall do my best." Her hoof flicked the other computer round and she started to type in her fleet positons. I did the same and nodded when ready. An evil grin spread across her face. "Oh. It. Is. On!"

"A4, B5, C7." Luna stopped in the entrance way to the boutique when she heard the voice. She didn't comphrehend what was going on, and the next shout made her angry.

"Dammit Rarity, how do you keep finding all my good spots?" She shot forward and shoulder barged the door, tearing it from the hinges in her anger.

"WHAT DOES THOU THINK YOU ARE DOING? HE BELONGS TO US, AND NO OTHER! EXPLAIN THYSELF THIS ISNTANT!" She finally looked at the pair, sitting on the bed with a stange contraption between them, and a tray of ravaged food stuffs to the side. She then noticed their blank stares. "Ahem. Pardon the intrusion, but what is going on?"

Author's Note

Hey guys, still on haitus, but I am trying to get some chapters done I my tablet. This thing is not designed for things like this, even if it does come with a detachable keyboard!

Chapter 18 (s)

A/N: Guess what I've done again. What's wrong with me? If you don't want to read those bits....
best you skip... well, the whole chapter really. And I started it out so innocently as well.

"Alec?" I looked up to see Luna's head poking through the doorway, not meeting my gaze. "Your bath is ready." I smiled and go off the bed. She had taken it upon herself to, well I don't know how to put it, other than take care of me after her assumption. I had tried to tell her she didn't have to, but she wouldn't listen. I followed her to the bathroom and started to strip off, noticing Luna was again averting her gaze.

"Luna, what is it?"

"I... uh, I just, um..." I stopped getting undressed and walked over, pulling her in to a hug. She still didn't look at me, but at least she carried on talking. "I said you belonged to me, like some kind of pet. What will I do next, collar you like a dog?"

"That doesn't sound too bad actually, a little kinky though." She finally looked at me, mouth open with shock clashing with my smirking mouth. "How about we put it like this? We belong to each other?" Her horn flashed once and my clothes were teleported off me.

"You... I... um, just... get in the bath." I gave her a quick kiss and climbed in, slowly sinking my body under the water. I was pushed into a sitting position as Luna started to scrub my back. I just shook my head.

"Luna, you don't have to..." She cut me off by brushing a wing over my mouth.

"I know, but I want to."

"I'm not a child."

"So? Now close your eyes like a good little foal." She giggled, before dumping a bowl of water over my head. I closed my eyes as she washed my hair, and reopened them as she continued to forcibly wash me. "Alec... there is something I want to ask you, but I'm afraid of what you will think."

I stayed her hooves and looked in to her eyes. "Luna, just ask. I will give you my honest answer."

She took a deep breath before continuing. "Remember last week, when I visited after your first day teaching? How I appeared?" That was the night she had taken an almost human form, and I nodded at her. "It was... different, and I... I enjoyed it, very much. Could we... do it like that more often?"

I tilted my head back and laughed. Luna tried to pull away, but I didn't let her. "Next time, why don't you ask something complicated? Luna, it doesn't matter what you look like, as long as you remain who you are inside. Besides, why would you want to change? You're beautiful."

She dipped her head as her cheeks turned pink. "But.. .would you prefer me like that?" She gave a gasp as I pulled her into the bath with me, holding her close and kissing her passionately. She pushed back harder as I snaked one of my hands between her hind legs, feeling them squeeze together. A shout from the door made us pull apart.

"LUNA!!! He is supposed to be resting! That is not resting! Alec, get out of that bath and back into bed this instant!" I looked to Luna who was smirking at me. This was going to be very embarrassing. Either I get out at full mast, or Luna gets out with my hand between her legs. "Oh, you better not be doing what I think you are doing! I'll have to get a new bath!" We started to laugh when she walked away, dramatically moaning. "This is. The. Worst. Possible. Thing!"

A sudden feeling on my underside made me gasp, and I looked to see Luna with a great big grin on her face, horn glowing. "Oh my, it seems I have found the water jets!"

"You're a devious mare, you know that right?"

"And that's what you love about me." She started to nibble my neck whilst my hand continued working. Love? Isn't that a big step? I've only know her around two weeks. I realized I had a lot to think about.

I rolled over as the door opened, not sure who I was expecting. A tray came through the door, held by a blue furry hand. I smiled. Luna came in and closed the door behind her, wearing a simple white dress. She set the tray down on my lap, and passed me a knife and fork. "Luna..."

"Please, eat. I want to know if I cooked it correctly." I lifted the lid up and was rewarded with steak. "I... hope it is to your liking." I cut a piece off and gave it a whiff. It smelt fine, so I ate it. "Well?"

"Oh, sweet Jesus, this is better than sex!"

"I take it you approve then?"

"Fuck yes! You've cooked this perfectly! How did you know how to?"

"Before my banishment, there was much conflict amongst the Griffon hierarchy. When they wanted to rest, they would take sanctuary in Equestria. The only rule was that there would be no fighting. If so, they would be thrown out. I learnt how to cook various meats from them. And before you ask, this animal died of natural causes, I did not kill it."

She motioned to the rest of the meal, and I carried on eating, whilst she completed some paperwork. Once finished, I went to take the tray out, but found myself pushed back by Luna's magic, who took the tray off me. She headed out of the room, hips swinging as she walked. And a smile on her face that told me she had noticed me starring.

I laid back down, and closed my eyes ready to go to sleep. I was feeling much better, the cold almost gone. The door opened again, and before I could sit up, the light was turned off. I felt someone climb on the bed, slowly moving up and straddling my legs. The curtains slowly pulled open, allowing the moonlight to shine through.

It framed Luna perfectly, and she smile as she came closer, stopping over my waist and bending forward. "You know ponies can see in, right?" She glanced over her shoulder, before turning back at me. That was definitely the face of a woman... mare that knew what she wanted.

"No, not when there is magic only allowing light it, not out." So, a two way mirror. She slowly lifted the hem of her dress in a blue aura. "You know, Rarity forgot something when she made this. She got all the measurements right, but didn't make anything to go underneath it." She dropped the dress again, and started moving back and forward over my crotch. "So... when are you going to get me back?"

"Still planning it. For now, however..." She gave a scream as I rolled to the side, flipping her on to her back with me on top of her. Her arms slowly wrapped around my back and pulled me close, bringing my lips to hers.

Luna happily trotted down the corridors of Canterlot Castle, greeting nearly every guard and servant by their first name. This caused quite a shock, as when she returned a few years ago she would not even speak to them. The moon had been raised about two hours ago, so she was off to night court. She wasn't expecting anypony to come, but they had started it again for those that not get there during the day.

It was only held a few times a week, the nights changing so that there was, if anypony did come by, a chance that they would be seen to, and not by the princesses aides. So when she entered the throne room to see it empty, even of guards, she was a little suspicious. The sound of compressed air from the shadows made her turn, then she felt something wet hit her on the side.

Turning to the light, she saw that there was a small patch of pink paint on her flank. Another hiss of air and another impact, on the other side this time. "WHO IS THERE?? SHOW THYSELF THIS INSTANT!" They ignored her demands, and another shot hit her chest. She stamped her hoof in frustration, summon an illumination spell and brightening the room.

Upon looking around, she found it empty still, but yet another impact on her flank told her other wise. She waited till the sound of compressed air filled the room, and then hit the floor, seeing a small ball of pink hit a curtain, rolling to the floor. She tapped it with a hoof, and nothing happened, so she pressed down upon it. It burst apart, coating the floor in pink paint.

There was a few more hisses of air, and more impacts to her flank. It hurt a bit, and she'd never tell anypony, but it was also... pleasurable. She turned in time to see more balls heading for her. She jumped out of the way, lighting her horn. She scanned the room, but found nothing. Another sweep and she felt something by the thrones.

Smiling, she pulled the air around it towards her, hearing a grunt as something hit the floor. She wrapped her magic around it, lifting it into the air. The strange thing shimmered, and then revealed to be coloured like the forest, with the exception of the golden eye covers. It looked around once, the 'up', which was to the floor, as Luna had him upside down. "Hey, that's not fair!" He raised the black object again and fired, hitting her chest with more pink.

Luna cut her magic and he fell to the floor. She trotted over and kicked the weapon away as he removed his armour. "That was not very nice. Why did you do that?"

Alec looked up to her and smiled. "Well, I just happen to know you've got some appointments tonight, and I thought it was time to get my own back. You're going to have to deal with them with a pink ass."

Luna turned her head to see that her entire flank was coloured pink. "And what if We just go and wash it off?" He wasn't given a chance to answer as the door swung open.

"Announcing the first appointment, a Miss Lulamoon, if her majesty pleases!" Alec stood up, gave Luna a quick kiss, and ran out of the room past the shocked mare.

"Was that the thing that the rumours are about, your highness?"

"Yes, and I am going to kill him!" She turned and walked to the throne, ignoring the snickers coming from the guards that had just re-entered. "Now then, Miss Lulamoon, what can the courts do for you?"

Luna walked back through the castle at around one in the morning. She was in her altered state, finding it refreshing to move like this. The night guards gave her strange looks, but she had her cutie mark printed on her clothes to show them who she was. She had hoped that the transformation would remove the paint, but after an improtu meeting with Discord, found it could only be removed with a special soap, one that had all but mysteriously disappeared.

Sighing, she entered her room and started to run a bath, then began removing her clothes. She shot up when she got the strangest feeling of being watched, then smiled as she purposely took more time, slowly rolling her panties down her legs, and bending at the hips to take them off, rear end facing the curtains. As she swung her tail back and forth, there was the sound of something hitting the floor. She giggled and walked back to the bathroom, where she found a bottle of the missing soap.

She couldn't believe how good it felt with a body like this, and she let an airy sigh out as she slid down the tub. She could hear things being moved around in her room, but she didn't care. After around ten minutes of indulgent soaking, she reached an arm up to grab the bottle of soap, but opened her eyes when she felt it missing.

Before she could do anything, pressure made itself known on her shoulders, gently kneading into them. She closed her eyes as Alec massaged her shoulders, and then pushed her forwards to work on her back. She heard the sound of a bottle opening, and then felt his hands start to massage her flank. She gave a small moan of pleasure as he pressed them a bit harder, but then he moved back up, working at her shoulders again.

She opened her eyes to see the bottle next to her, and then remembered that she had some paint on her chest. She briefly wondered why he wasn't putting it on, so grabbed one of his hands, squirted some soap into it, and placed it on her breast. He began to massage it into her fur, the other hand coming around from the other side and doing the same. She let out a louder moan as he continued, and bit her lower lip as his hands moved lower, stopping at her stomach.

She tried to grab hold of them, but he moved too quick, grabbing both her wrists and holding them firm with one hand. He started to nibble her ear as the other hand went lower still, gently teasing the edges. She tried to move her arms, but they were held too tightly, and all she could do was moan with pleasure. To her utter surprise, he stopped everything, and walked out of the bathroom. Luna starred after him for a minute, realising he had just had his revenge without even letting on. The sound of a door opening and closing made her huff in annoyance. Looks like she would have to take care of herself.

Climbing out of the bath, she walked out in to the main room, not bothering to dry off. She noticed that scented candles were placed around her room. After what she was planning, she'd need another wash anyway. Instead a towel was draped around her, and she felt his hands start to rub it, getting her dry. It didn't take long, the heat coming from her body helping, and once he was finished he picked her up and placed her on the bed, face down. She then saw a trolley with some bottles on and could just make out one of the labels. 'The best care for pegasi wings money can buy.' Wing oils?

Before she could ask, he picked up that bottle and let some drip into his hand, rubbing them together and then pacing one on each wing. She was immediately thrown into conflicting feelings, the massage calming her, but the location getting her frustrated. He spent a good twenty minutes on each wing, by which point Luna was almost to the point of release, if her moaning was any indication. He then got another bottle and moved back a little, then started to massage her legs. This gave her a chance to calm down and think for a moment. Why would he tease her so, and then do this? It didn't make sense.

She was shook out of her thoughts as he grabbed another bottle and squirted it straight on to her back, the coldness of the liquid making her gasp. That soon turned to moaning as his fingers worked it in to her fur. By the time he was finished, she was almost asleep. She could hardly feel her body... and she didn't care. The only thing she did know was that she was now lying on her back.

And then something didn't feel right, it was too dark. She tried to move her arms, but found them unresponsive. Then the feeling came back. She couldn't move them because they were being restrained by rope, one to either side of the bed, and she was blindfolded. She tried to move her legs, but found them tied the same way. That meant her whole body was exposed, and as she tried to cover up using her tail, she found he had even thought to tie that out of the way. He'd even managed to tie her wings to her back without her noticing. "Alec, this isn't funny!" No response. "Alec, are you there?"

She once more heard the sound of the door opening and a hushed conversation. Surely he wouldn't let anypony else in to see me like this, would he? Panic set in and she lit her horn, seeking out the knots in the rope. The door closed again and she heard footsteps come closer. "Trying to get free Luna? Well, we can't have that, not yet. Good thing I know of away to stop you."

Did he have a magic blocking ring? Is he going to knock me out? What if he... She gave loud gasp a something ice cold was placed on her stomach, and moved lower down. She couldn't focus her thoughts, let alone her magic as he rolled what she guessed was a ice cube around her belly button. She heard a lid lifted from a plate and bit her lip again, waiting for some sort of stimulation.

She felt something brush across them, and opened her mouth, extending her tongue to taste what it was, then trying to bite it, but the strawberry was pulled away from her. Huffing in annoyance, she moved as far forward as possible, following the scent. She caught it in her teeth and pulled, but it wouldn't budge. It then came closer, and she felt a set of lips press against hers, finally releasing the fruit. She flopped back down and chewed it.

She let out another large gasp as something cold and metal was pressed against her, and she tried to close her legs to protect herself. She heard a lid pop off, and then a spray of some sort, right on to one of her nipples. Another spray and the other was the same. She then felt the spray hit between her legs. "Hold still..." She did as told, not sure what was going on. He took a few steps back and she heard a click. Did he just take a..."Perfect. Well, I gotta get going, see you later Luna." She listened as his footsteps headed to the door, which opened and closed. She could hear him walking down the corridor.

"ALEC!!! GET BACK HERE AND FINISHED ME OFF!!!" Nothing. No guards to save her, no laughing from across the hall. Not even a peep from the birds that nested on her balcony at this time of year. "FINE, BE LIKE THAT!" She lit her horn once more, seeking out the ropes, but each time she found them, she would lose focus. She concentrated her hardest, finally getting a knot. A quick scan showed no others, which meant if she undid this one, she would be free. She started with a free end, tracing it back to the knot, and getting ready to pull it through. She gave it a quick tug before arching her back in pleasure as a tongue traced across her, right between the legs.

"What, did you think I had left?"

Author's Note

As of now, this story is once again going. Now I have Chrome on my tablet, I can get things online properly again!!

Oh, and if you did read this chapter, can you let me know how you think it went?

Chapter 19: (more s, what is wrong with me???)

A/N: Why can't I stop writing these bits??

"What, did you think I had left?" I moved up, running my hands along Luna's body, watching as she shuddered with pleasure, her arms and legs straining to get free. I bent down and licked the whipped cream off her right nipple, then did the same to the left, all the while listening to her soft gasps. "Don't think I'm finished yet. Once I am, you'll know not to tease me like that again."

"What... w-what... are... y-you going toooaaahhhh!!!" I had returned my attention to her marehood, making sure to get her 'clean'. I looked up to see her biting her lower lip, trying not to scream in pleasure, before pulling away. "D-don't... stop... p-please?"

"Well okay, but you might be a bit noisy. Thankfully, I borrowed some stuff from Pinkie Pie. I think it will help."

Luna tried to calm her mind, to think what on Equestria he could have. Pinkie had a whip that day, he could get rope from nearly anywhere, so... "WHAT IS THAT?" She cried as a spherical object was rolled around her nethers.

"This? Oh, this is the gift from Miss Pie." She felt him move, sitting next her, and bending forward. She could sense something being held over her, and it smelt of... her. She felt it roll across her lips, her taste filling her sense. She let out a gasp and he took his chance, shoving it into her mouth. She felt a strap tighten round her head, and he moved away again. "And you thought that was it? Now then, even a mare such as yourself has to have away... of dealing with your needs."

"MMPPPHHH!!!"

"Now, now, I'll be with you in a minute. Let's see, top drawer? No, too obvious."

"MMPPPHH!" She tried to focus her magic, make sure her personal items were locked away. Unfortunately, this also drew attention to the location.

"Ahh, in your desk. Guess paperwork is that boring, huh?" She heard the drawer open, and he gave a low whistle. "Well, well, well, what do we have here?" The was a small click and Luna heard the sound of buzzing.

"MMPPPPHHH!"

"That sounded like a 'no' to me. Do you think you're in a position to argue?" She could feel him coming closer, nearly to the foot of her bed. She struggled with all her strength to close her legs, but they were way too secure. She felt his hands lift her from the bed, and slide another bit of rope around her waist, and trailed it between her legs. She felt it go tight, and then a knot was placed right on to her folds. He slipped it under the rope on her front, and tied it off.

"MMMMMPPPH!" She wanted him to take it off, to let her go, but the feeling from the pleasure was overwhelming. A piece of cold rubber was placed on top, and she felt his hands work to secure it in position.

"And now... enjoy yourself." He clicked it on, and she could just make out his footsteps. This time he didn't leave the room, heading to her reading area and picking up a random book. She tried her best to ignore the stimulation, to focus her magic to at least turn it off, but instead she turned it to a higher setting.

"MMMMMPPPPPPHHHH!!!!"

I smiled as I put down the fifth book, looking to the bed where Luna was still writhing about. "MMMPPPHHH!" Well, there was orgasm number fifteen. They were coming quicker and quick... "MMMMPPPPHHH!" Number sixteen. Standing, I made my way over to the bed, smirking as she released twice more. I reached my hand down and clicked the toy off. "MMMPPHH?"

"What's that, you want more?" Luna nodded her head, well, as much as she could. "Okay then, let's see. Ahh, more then one setting." I clicked it round a few times and switched it back on, seeing Luna strain at the ropes again.

"MMMPPPHHH!" After a full minute it turned off. "MMMPPPHH?" She tried to use her thighs to switch it back on, but couldn't reach. Thirty seconds later it turned on for another minute and stopped again. "MMMPPPHH!!!!"

"Aw, too much? Well, I've got one more chapter to get through, and then I'll be back. Have fun!" I bent down and kissed her on the forehead, and noticed her horn glowing. "Are you trying to use magic again?"

"MPPH MPPHH!" She shook her head, and it got me curious. Leaning forward, I gave it a tentative lick. "MMMMPPPPPPHHHHH!" Luna screamed out in pleasure as she orgasmed again.

"Damn, I'm going to have to remember that one." I left the bed and picked the book back up. It took me half an hour to finish, what with a rather vocal distraction. Placing it back on the shelf, I slowly walked over to the bed where Luna was shuddering, and clicked the vibrator off.

"MMPPHH?" I slowly undid the knots, removing it from her. She was breathing heavily, chest rising and falling a lot. I took the rope off her completely, and then crouched under the bed to undo the single knot holding her. Once done, I took them off her wrists, legs and tail, massaging the reddened areas. I slowly reached my hand up and undid the gag, Luna letting out a soft gasp as I took it out.

She shakily reached up a shaky hand and lifted the blindfold. I smiled as I looked into her eyes, which showed a tentative balance between exhaustion and bliss. "Luna, are you..." I didn't have a chance to continue as she pounced forward and knocked me to the floor. She bent forward and kissed me roughly, biting my lip as she pulled away. A quick flash from her horn and something tingled between my legs.

"That was a spell to get you ready to go again as soon as you are spent. You are going to buck me, right here, right now, and you are going to buck me hard until I am satisfied!"

"What?" 'SLAP' I rubbed my cheek where Luna's hand had just impacted.

"Wrong answer! Try again!"

"What the hell has gotten in to you?" 'SLAP'

"Again, wrong answer!"

"FINE!" I picked her and, smiling as her legs wrapped around my waist. My back slammed into the wall whilst Luna pushed forward and bit my lip again. I flipped us round so she was against the wall. "You want it rough, you're going to get it rough!"

Celestia came out of her room, glad to see that she was right to put up a sound cancelling spell around her room, if the looks on the guards faces were anything to go by. She closed her door and walked down the corridor, humming happily herself. A door opening behind her caused her to turn around, seeing Alec come out of Luna's room. He closed the gently and started to walk away. She noted that he seemed to be very stiff, so instead followed him.

As she got closer, she noted that there were scratch marks on his back, and what looked like teeth marks on his shoulders. "Alec?"

He stopped walking and stared at nothing. "Morning."

"Who attacked you?"

"No one." She studied his expression for a moment, the blank face turned in to a serene grin.

"I see. And perhaps you should have a shower." She giggled at the confused look he was giving her. "You smell of Luna, and not her shampoo." She burst out laughing as he shuffled down the corridor and into a separate room. She chanced a peek in to her sisters room. Luna was back to her normal form, gentle snores coming from the bed. The room was a mess. There were several questionable items strewn across the floor, the curtains had been pulled down, and Luna's vanity was in pieces. Celestia shook her head as she withdrew, and turned to the nearest guard. "My sister is not to be disturbed unless by me or by Alec, is that understood?"

"Yes, your majesty."

Luna was seated on her throne, watching as the ponies danced around the ballroom. Only they were not completely pony. They were all human-esque, covered in different shades of fur, some with wings and some with horns. The mares were all wearing luxurious gowns, and the stallions all had suits on. A quick glance to her side and she saw her personal guard stood around the dais. Their fur was all dark grey, they still had their serpent like golden eyes, and their uniforms were the colour of her fur, her cutie mark upon their shoulders.

Movement to her other side caused her to turn, where she saw Celestia stand, and motion for still. The music stopped and all the ponies turned to the dais. "My friends, I have gathered you all here this day for an important announcement. Five years ago today, my sister returned to us. But without the help of Twilight Sparkle and her friends, she would not be with us as she is."

The doors at the far end opened and the mares entered, each being escorted by a guard, who were in the dress uniforms. They guided them to the centre of the room, where six stallions came forward and offered their arms. Luna watched as the one who had approached Twilight turned, revealing himself to be Big Mac. The pairs walked to the dais and bowed as they trotted by, the princesses nodding in return. Luna saw Cadence smiling, whilst leaning against Shining Armour, who had a dopey grin on his face and a hand over her stomach.

Celestia continued her speech. "What is not very well know still, is what this day is. Today, this celebration is not only for Luna being back for five years. As you all know, my sister and I have been around for millennia, and as such don't celebrate our days of birth. This year is different. My sister and I became alicorns at fairly young ages, and as such, we will now carry on from that age. As we are nigh immortal, we have never really grown older. So it is my great honour to welcome you all to..." Her horn glowed, as well as a banner above the thrones, which unfurled itself. "...Princess Luna's twenty first birthday!"

The gathered ponies started to applaud, and Luna looked to the floor in embarrassment. The sound of squeaking wheels drew her attention, and she raised her head up to see a large cake being pushed her way. She got off her throne and approached, running a finger along the icing. She brought it to her mouth, savouring the taste. Picking up a knife, she got ready to cut a slice off, but two furry beige hands shot out from inside, and grabbed her by the wrists. She gave a scream as she was pulled into the cake.

The gathered ponies gave gasps of shock, with the exception of Celestia, her friends and the guards. The collapsing cake finally settled, and they were all reward with Luna being held a beige pegasus stallion, both of whose wings were full spread as they kissed passionately. Luna pulled away and looked at her mystery assailant, confused as to whom it was. Until she looked into his eyes, a deep blue surrounded by a yellow tint. She had only seen those on one other. "...A-a-alec?"

He reached up a hand and stroked her cheek. "Happy birthday, Luna." The crowd began applauding once more as she returned his greeting.

Luna slowly awoke to the sound of birdsong, and lifted her head to look around her room. Her gaze settled on a few items on the floor, and with a quick flash they were locked away. She trotted over to the door and gave the nearest guards orders to get somepony to fix her room. He saluted and trotted off, just as a shout came from down the hall, and she galloped to the guest room where it originated. "WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED TO ME??"

As soon as I stepped in to my room, I took Celestia's advice, stripping off and entering the bathroom. It took a few moments, but soon I was under the steaming downpour. I don't know how long I stood there, letting the water massage my back, but eventually I grabbed a bottle of shower gel and started to clean off. Once I had rinsed, I grabbed a bottle of fur oils and rubbed it into my coat, then grabbed a bottle of wing oil... wait a minute, fur oils, wing oil? I ran out of the shower and stood in front of the mirror.

My eyes widened in shock at my reflection. There was beige coloured fur all over my body, a long sandy brown mane and tail, and a set of beige wings sticking out from my back. "WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED TO ME??"

I turned to the door being opened, seeing Luna stood there mouth agape. "Oh no. But... that was just a dream!"

"Luna? What did you do!?"

"I think we need to speak to Twilight Sparkle. Although..." She slowly trotted forward, a meek smile on her face. As she did so, she lit her horn. It was the first time I had seen the transformation, and as the light grew brighter I had to shield my eyes. Once I opened them, Luna was in her human form, completely naked. She walked forward and pulled me into her embrace. And then I felt her hands run through my wings, which was unnerving in the first place, but the way that they shot out... I looked down to Luna who still had that smile on her face. "Well, this could be fun." She pushed me back on to my bed with a giggle, magic closing the door behind her.

Twilight stepped of the train and took a deep breath. One of the few things she missed from Canterlot was the city's scent. A hoof suddenly jabbing in to her flank got her moving, but not before she turned to glare at the grinning farm pony behind her. "Just you wait till later, Mac." His grin got even bigger, and she jumped down, her friends following. They weren't sure why they were brought along, but Twilight had received an urgent letter from Luna, and as per usual over reacted, dragging her friends to the train station in a big lavender aura.

They trotted through the city to the castle, Twilight nodding to the ponies that noticed her and bowing. Once inside they headed directly to the throne room, seeing Luna wearing a dark blue gown, which split down the sides, allowing her legs to come out on show. Twilight returned Mac's jab and glared at him as he tore his gaze away from the dais, and then he galloped out of the room, the doors being slammed shut by Twilight. Luna's giggles caught her ears and she took a deep breath before turning around. "Hello Luna, how are you?"

"I am fine, Twilight Sparkle. I am sorry, but it appears in my haste I did not think clearly. It is actually Miss Belle I have need of."

"Princess? Me? Do you need knew clothes, or alterations done? Or..." Luna held up her hand to stop her, and nodded to one of the guards.

"Allow me to clarify, Rarity. It is not me who needs clothes, somepony else does. But you will need to take new measurements."

"New... measurements?" The doors swung open, and their mouths dropped as a bipedal creature walked in. It stood nearly seven feet tall, and their cheeks turned pink as they studied the way it's fur covered it's extremely well toned muscles. Rarity's eyes kept drifting downwards, until it spoke. And they nearly fainted at the shock.

"Hey girls, how's it going? Rarity, I got a favour to ask of you."

"A-a-alec?"

"Yeah... long story short, don't be in Luna's dreams when her magic is not willing to be controlled. Anyways, I need some clothes. Can't walk round in a curtain all the time."

"Well darling, you have fur now. Surely you are not worried about being cold?"

"Uh, no. For one, I'd be more comfortable in them, and two, not everything is the same. There are still certain parts of me I'd like to keep... hidden."

"Why? It certainly didn't stay hidden this morning!"

"LUNA!"

"Oh grow up. Anyway, Rarity, if you would be so kind, the castle seamstress has allowed you use of her workshop."

"Very well. Come Alec, and we'll get you sorted." They both turned to leave the room, and Luna used her magic to lift the curtain, showing the other mares his well toned flank.

"No, you can't have him, he's mine." They all smiled at the smirk on Luna's face.

Author's Note

You know, I might actually get around to writing a proper chapter for this story!

Chapter 20: A rift opens. (no s!)

I stood on the balcony of Luna's get away, looking over the city. It truly was a sight to behold, and I hadn't really gotten much of the chance to look during my two previous visits. A pair of furry blue arms wrapped themselves around my chest, Luna laying her head across the top of my back. She probably would've prefered my shoulder, but she wasn't tall enough.

I turned around and returned the gesture, kissing her forehead. She let out an airy sigh and melted even more into my embrace. She trusted me to do this. I had spent the last three days getting ready, Dash helping me. Luna looked up and nodded, telling me that she was ready. I tightened my hold on her and fell backwards over the railings.

I could see Luna struggling not to open her wings, and she was doing well. I kept an eye out for the marker, and as soon as we passed it I spread my wings, flaring them up and then gliding through the skies on my back, Luna resting upon my chest. She gently unfurled her wings and pushed away, keeping a hand in one of mine. Together we flew over the city and around the mountain once, before alighting on a low lying cloud.

Now, a meteorologist would tell you that it is physically impossible to walk on a cloud, and that your body's density would be too much, so you'd just fall through it. Well, I was, right then, on a planet where magic existed. And I guess you all want to know if clouds as comfortable as they look?

No, they are not. If there is such a place as heaven, and a cloud is a... change of train stop, for example, then I would never get on the next train. I was ready to tell Luna, even if I hadn't known her for that long, and thanks to Dash being well know throughout the weather business, the scene was set, a floor of clouds for us to move on. There was just one more thing to come, and I pulled away from Luna to signal down to the castle. Two light flashes showed my message was received, so I turned back to Luna, bowing and offering my hand as the music drifted up.

She took my hand and we moved to the centre, where I placed my other hand on her lower back, and then we began. We let the music move us as we glided across the cloud, but it wasn't all smooth sailing. More than once I almost stepped on Luna's feet, and she just giggled at my clumsiness. I was never a good dancer anyway... The music came to a close, and I pulled Luna close, wrapping my wings around her.

This was it. I was going to confess my feelings for her. I swallowed nervously before meeting her gaze. I got lost in those soft blue eyes, letting them fill my confidence. "Luna? A few days ago, you wanted to ask me something, but were afraid of my answer. Now it's my turn to tell you something, but I'm scared of what you will think."

"There is nothing you can say that will cause me to worry. Say what is on your mind."

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, before opening them and locking my eyes with Luna's. Time to take the plunge. "Luna, I know we haven't known each other for very long, but out of the ponies I have met, I've only felt a real connection with you." I cupped Luna's hands in my own. "Luna, I lo..." I was interrupted by a loud bang, seeing light flashing in her eyes.

Luna's eyes drifted up to watch the fireworks, whilst I huffed in annoyance. Pinkie had gone early. Luna turned around and pressed back against my chest. I wrapped both my arms and wings around her, holding her tight. We stood there for a good ten minutes watching until the display ended, where upon Luna turned back to me. "What was it you were going to say?"

"Doesn't matter now, the moments gone." I pulled away and sat on the edge of the cloud, legs swinging in the air. I could just make out the street lights of Ponyville below us. I felt the cloud 'shift' as Luna came closer, sitting next to me. It was weird, in any other place we wouldn't look strange, but looking like we did, with me in a suit and Luna in a black ballgown on the cloud, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were hallucinating.

She shifted closer, and I put my arm across her shoulders, when she gave a shudder, so I added my wing to the mix. She let out a satisfied sigh, and then fell backwards, pulling me with her. We ended up lying on the cloud in the same position, so I shifted us away from the edge. "Alec?" I looked down to Luna, staring in to those luminous pools once more. "I just wanted to say, I lo you too." I gave a chuckle and leant down, kissing her. Pulling away, we just stayed there staring up at the stars in the night sky.

"Admiral, the fleet is ready. We'll be ready to rendezvous with the Reich's Third Fleet in two days, and then we'll reorientate to our destination. What is the order?"

She looked over her data pad, saw the lines showing the seventy five vessel's flight paths. It sounded like a lot, but the Chaos Region had hundreds of planets, so it would take a while to search them all, and that was just the ones where they would encounter no problems. The last time someone had ventured in there, they hadn't returned, and they only went in by three au. "What is the estimated time to a complete scan of the region, assuming that he is on the final world?"

"With a fleet total of a hundred and eighty five ships, it should take approximately two months for a full scan. That is allowing for no issues, ma'am."

"So, a possible eight month round journey. Are you sure you want to come lieutenant?"

"Yes ma'am. She's due just after we a scheduled to return, so I won't miss it."

"Very well, give me comm to all ships." Seventy five lights on the tac display showed that they were listening, and she opened the intercom on her own ship. "This is Admiral Luckes. I'm sure most of you are wondering why we have amassed such a large fleet. The truth of the matter is that we are going on a rescue mission, to the Chaos Region. I know there are rumours flying around about the 'ghost ship', but I can tell you with certainty that the Friendship Of Magic is real, and it is the survivors of said vessel that we are looking for. This is your last chance to back out. Ship captains, when your crews are ready, give me a green."

Ten minutes later and the tac lights changed from blue to green, not one dropship leaving them. "Excellent. All ships, slave your nav software to my AI, and prepare for FTL jump." The tac lights flashed twice, before turning yellow. "Lieutenant, get us under way."

"Yes ma'am." They watched on the centre view screen of the capital-class ship as the forward phalanx classes entered spinning blue auras, the ships behind soon following. Then they passed through themselves, the view screen now showing what looked like a tunnel in space. "Ma'am, all ships have successfully jumped. ETA is forty six hours."

I awoke to warmth on my face, turning my head to see the sun rising in the east. Luna was standing a few metres away, horn glowing as she lowered the moon. Rarity had filled me in whilst I was staying at hers. I still didn't understand it, but it worked, so I let it be. There was a chill on the air, and even through my fur I could feel it. Luna could too, if the way she was shivering was any sign, so I stood up and walked over, once more wrapping her with a wing. She gave a slight gasp from the shock, before pressing against my side. "Good morning. I didn't want to wake you, but I had duties to attend to."

I smiled and kissed her forehead, then rested my head over hers. "It's okay. I think we'd better get back now anyway, Dash said today was supposed to be a clear one."

"That's right, and this cloud is in our way!" I looked round for the source of the voice, finding no one around. And then I fell through the cloud as the part where I was standing disappeared. Flaring my wings I managed to stop myself falling, and looked up to see two mares eyeing me with interest. They had nearly the same coat colour, but their manes were complete different. They could almost be twins. I briefly wondered it they were rel... "Hey sis, get a load of this guy!" I guess so.

"Well, that's something you don't see every day. Are you a crossbreed?"

"A what?"

"Well, you've got the body of a minotaur, the wings and coat of a pony, not to mention that gorgeous mane and tail of yours."

"Ah. No, I am not a crossbreed. I don't usually look like this, it is purely the result of out of control magic." The mare with the blue and white spiky hair flew closer to me. Much too close as her hoof started to trace over my frame.

"So, Mr hunk, what do you do for a living, and where are you staying?" A voice drifted down the clouds, punctuated with laughter.

"He's... a royal... consort! Ha hah haha! And he... stays at the... castle!"

"A royal consort, hmm. What do you think Flitter, does he know how to please a mare?" The other pony flew down and wrapped herself around my side, stroking her hoof across my chest. It took all my concentration to keep in the air.

"Well, if he is Celestia's consort, then probably. But I've heard that Princess Luna has a new toy, and that she is very pleased with him!"

"I AM NOT A TOY!"

"YOU ARE SOMETIMES!"

"THAT'S IT! LUNA, GET YOUR BUTT DOWN HERE!" The cloud above was gently pulled apart, and Luna's grinning face appeared in the hole. "Could you please tell these mares to let me go?"

"Hmm, could I? Yes, I could, but I'm not going to."

"Luna, if you don't..."

"You may have had your revenge, but what you did to me was much worse. So, now I have to even things up again. Ladies, as long as nothing actually happens, you can tease him all you see fit!" The two mares faces lit up as Luna teleported away, leaving me with them. The pony still wrapped around my side, Flitter I think, started to move her hoof down my body, and that was enough for me.

I shook her off and flew into the cloud, right into the centre, hoping they wouldn't see me. I was fine until a light blue wing was brushed across my muzzle. Yes, I had a muzzle, and it wasn't very long, but it was there. Did I not mention that bit yet? Ah, doesn't matter now. "You know, you can't hide in a cloud from mares that have been on the weather team for years."

"Leave me alone!" I shot forward, trying to escape, but I could see the other mare's shadow, and changed directions. After around ten minutes I realised they could see my every move, and were herding me around.

"What the hay is going on up here?" I stopped, recognizing the voice. "Flitter, Cloudchaser, you are supposed to be clearing the skies, not playing in them! Now I've got to get back to Ponyville, they need me back there while I'm on leave from the Academy, so I'll be leaving this afternoon. And what's with all the mares up here?"

All... the... mares? Fuck. "Aw, but we wanted you to stay for a while! Is Rumble going too?" Wait a minute, Rumble, Academy? That meant the stallion was none other than...

"THUNDERLANE, SAVE ME!!" I shot forward towards him, wrapping my arms around his neck. I then saw the other ponies there, around thirty of them, all in weather team uniforms. And all mares. "Thunderlane, I could do with your help right now!"

"Who the hay are you?!"

"It's me, Alec! I'll explain later, but I need to get away from them!" He pried himself out of my grasp and looked at the assembled ponies, smiling to the two mares who had initially found us.

"You do know he's with Princess Luna, right?"

"Uh huh, and she said as long as nothing happened, we could tease him all we wanted."

"I see. Well then Alec, I hope you can fly pretty fast, because when those two get an idea, they stick with it." With that he dropped out the sky, heading for Canterlot.

"JUST YOU WAIT TILL RARITY HEARS ABOUT THIS, THERE'LL BE HELL TO PAY!" I turned round and looked at the mares, who were all staring at me with hungry eyes. "Well, I can see ony one way out of this." They started to drift closer, and I smirked at them. "And that is... a one way express elevator to hell." They stopped moving, looking confused. And then I snapped my wings shut, flipping so that my head was pointing straight down.

A quick glance 'back' and I saw that half the mares decided not to follow, returning to clear the clouds. At the head of the ones chasing me were Flitter and Cloudchaser, and I knew one of them had tried for the Wonderbolts, so this would take some work. I waited until I could almost feel them next to me, and a quick glance to my side showed they were, massive smirks on their faces. It was now or never. I snapped my wings open again and stopped as the mares all flew past, and then took off as fast as I could towards the castle.

I chanced a glance behind me, and there were now only two ponies chasing me, the rest not bothering. Yep, it was those two again, and they were gaining, so I pushed myself to the limit, and could see Luna's window. The curtains were open and drifting around, so that meant the window was open and I was safe! I snapped my wings to my side and dove towards it, speed increasing. By the time I saw the glass and frames it was too late to slow down. The last thing I remember seeing was the concerned face of Luna looking down at me from her bed.

"Luna?" She whipped her head up to see Celestia standing by the door. "How is he?"

"Still unconscious, as he has been for the first two days. Is there something you need?"

"No, I just wanted to see how he was, and how you are doing." Luna got to all fours, trotting over and nuzzling her sister.

"I have been better. There is something we need to talk about, in private." With a quick nod of her head, Celestia sent the guards and servants away, and then placed a soundproofing spell around the room. Luna took a deep breath and continued. "Out there on the cloud, he was going to say something to me, before the fireworks stopped him. Do you know what that was?"

"No, I do not. He did not tell me all of his plans this time."

"He was about to say he loved me."

"Luna, I dread to tell you this, but I sense the day when his kind come for him will soon be upon us. He will go home, and he will find another, then grow old and die. It is his choice, and what he deserves. Would you deny him this?"

"...no, but that is not the problem."

"Then what is?"

"...I... love him as well."

"Oh, Luna!" Celestia swept her in to her forelegs as she began to cry, running a hoof through her mane. Over the years, they had both had many lovers, but Luna had never been in love. Celestia had, but after they had turned him to stone the first time, her feelings for him disappeared. She stayed the rest of the night next to her sister's side, hoping he'd awaken. When he did the next morning, she wished he had stayed asleep.

Two months later.......

"WHAT IS THIS SUPPOSED TO BE?" The stallion dropped to the floor, cowering with fear as Luna shouted at him.

"D-d-dasiy and h-h-h-h-ha cakes, y-y-our majesty."

"YOU DARE INSULT US? WE ASKED FOR FRIED DAISES AND HAY CAKES, YOU WASTREL! GIVE US ONE GOOD REASON WHY WE SHOULD NOT HAVE YOU THROWN IN THE DUNGEON!" The stallion said nothing, quivering on the floor. "WELL?"

"Luna..."

"WHAT?"

"You're doing it again." She looked across the table at Celestia, whose face was one of sympathy and concern. This would be the tenth chef in three weeks, and Celestia was running out faster than she could replace them. Luna then focused on the pony cowering before her, and gasped.

"We... I am sorry, I didn't mean to cause offence. Please, accept my apologies." The stallion looked up with fearful eyes and gulped, then controlled his shaking and nodded. Luna bent down and kissed his forehead. "I would be honoured to eat this meal, thank you." The stallion got up and trotted away, back towards the kitchen. Once inside he fell to the floor in floods of tears, the head chef coming over and comforting him. Back in the dining room, the tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife.

"Luna, why don't you just go talk to him?"

"Why?"

"Because the longer you wait, the further he will drift from you."

"He has made it clear he want's nothing to do with me. When last I visited, he ran into the Everfree Forest! Not even we go in there without a good reason, and he did it by choice! And the times before that when he would not run, he would not even speak to me nor acknowledge my presence! He even injured three guards that I ordered to restrain him! Why would I want to go talk to him?"

"Because of what you told me that night."

Luna dropped her gaze to the table, her voice a whisper. "And what if that is no longer true?"

"Then why don't you look me in the eye and say that?"

"....I... can't."

Author's Note

Ooohh, conflict!!! How will it be resolved?

I don't bloody know yet, I haven't thought that far ahead!!

And, finally, I've written a chapter without clop!

Chapter 21

"Well lookie who we have 'ere." I stopped my walk through Ponyville, turning to the pony behind me. "And what the buck do you want?"

"I'm just doing some shopping, Applejack, and then I'll be leaving."

"Leavin'? Where to this time, Appleloosa?"

"Maybe. Dunno, I just go where the path takes me."

"Well how come ya don't take the path north any more?"

"Because there isn't anything in that direction for me. Now if you don't mind, I'd like to buy three dozen of your freshest apples, and then I have a few more bits to get." She trotted over and put a hoof on my arm, her eyes filled with pleading.

"Why don't ya come back t' live here, Sugarcube? Ponyville misses you."

"Misses me? They only speak to me when I bring stuff by to trade for supplies I need. Let me put it this way, the Cakes haven't spoken to me for twenty three days, and I know I'm being followed by Royal Guards, even if you can't see them."

"They're just concerned for ya, we all are. It can't be healthly, livin' in the Everfree Forest."

"My shelter is safe. It's construct by supplies I got sent down form the Crystal Empire, and I had a couple of unicorns come by to give it magical protection."

"Unicorns? Does Twi know?" I raised my eyebrow at her, and shook my head.

"Do you really think I'd tell her where I was staying? No, that is not an option. Now, if you don't want to sell me some apples, I'll be one my way." I turned to walk off, but a large red leg was put across my chest, and my hand settled on the knife on my belt. "Mac, don't do this."

"Do what, exactly?"

"You know you won't win."

"An' Ah aslo know you don't wanna hurt me. So Ah guess we have a good ol' stand off, don't we?"

"Yeah, looks like we do... unless..." He gave a yelp as I kicked his rear leg out on the same side as his raised forehoof, and as he stumble to regain his balance I continued on my way. I felt the tremors in the ground before he got there, and jumped to the side as he ran past me, skidding to a stop and turning. I had pulled my knife out, holding it up in front of me. "You were right about one thing Mac, I don't want to hurt you, but that doesn't mean I won't."

"Big Mac." We both looked to the side to see Twilight stood there, several guards around her. "Let him go."

"But Ah thought..."

"It is his right to come and go as he pleases. If he chooses not to stay, then we can't change his mind." Mac bowed his head as he walked up to her and gave her a quick nuzzle, before Applejack socked him in the face and had a go at him.

"Thank you, your highness, I really didn't want to hurt him."

"I didn't do it for you." With that she turned around and walked off. I put my knife away and walked out of town, ignoring the stares being thrown my way. It didn't take long to reach the forest, and I stopped by Zecora's to get the last of my supplies. She was an invaluable ally now, and very helpful in undoing the spell Luna had put on me. I shook the thoughts of her out of my head and knocked on the door.

"Is that a knock at my door I hear? Who would come by a place many fear?" The door swung open to reveal the smiling zebra mare.

"Hey Zecora, just the usual please."

"Of course for you, the norm, but if I may, what is with this storm?" She waved a hoof at my face, before turning around and gathering some small baskets together. It was mainly herbs and spices, but this time she had added a coupe of brews that she had said would keep me warm during the coming winter months. Smelt like brandy to me, but I wasn't going to complain

"Just a little, well a big, confrontation in town, but nothing too serious. Anyway, thanks for the stuff, I'll see you later." I headed out the door, but Zecora's next words made me stop.

"I think it will be a start, if you mend the hole in your heart." I carried on, letting the door close behind me. Another half an hour of walking and I came across a rather large tree. Reaching into one of the holes, I grabbed a bit of rope and pulled it out. I had to walk backwards, but soon the lid came up, and I chucked my supplies down the steps before rolling the rope back up and putting it back in the hole.

I made my way down the steps and grabbed the crank at the bottom, using a path through the trees and some mirrors to bring light inside. The Crystal walls reflected and amplified the light, so there was enough to see by. I returned to the entrance and checked the area making sure I hadn't been followed, then pulled the hatch shut. From the outside, anyone going by just minding their business wouldn't find it. And neither would those who were looking for it, as they had tried.

Opening my fridge (magic battery powered, courtesy of Trixie and Blueblood.), I saw only one slab of meat left. I pulled it out and started my oven, also magical powered, and let the heat fill the small room. Once it was about a third of the way cooked I added some spices and let it continue. Once done, I grabbed a pate and some cutlery, then dug in. After cleaning them off in the underground stream that was running through one of the corners, I left them near the oven to dry off and climbed into bed. Tomorrow would be a hunting day, and I'd need all my energy for it.

The library door swung open and Rainbow Dash trotted in, followed closely by Soarin. The other ponies looked to her with hope, and she shook her head. She could track him to Zecora's, but always lost him after that. She then noticed the Lunar guards standing in the corner, and Luna sat on the couch in the room. She looked at Rainbow once, and then stared at the table. She just wanted to see him, know that he was all right.

Twilight pulled Dash into the kitchen, and the others could hear a hushed conversation which quickly escalated. "...so the next time I see him, I'm going to give him a good buck to the head, maybe knock some sense into that thick skull of his!"

"Rainbow Dash!" She stuck her head out of the kitchen door and looked to the couch, where Luna was still looking at the table. "I would prefer it if you did not do that. It is not his mind that is troubled, much as I thought it was mine. I am staying for a few days, and maybe I will have the chance to speak with him."

The mares chatted the night away, until one by one they left. The guards had gone to take up positions around the library outside, and Twilight showed Luna to her guest room, and then trotted to her own room. A few hours later she was awoken by the sound of sobbing coming from the guest room. She gently eased the door open, seeing Luna holding the blankets to her chest. "Luna... are... what's wrong?" It was then she realized that no one had stayed in this room since he had, and she hadn't actually changed the bedding.

"It has his smell!" Twilight hoped up next to Luna and held her until the tears ran themselves dry.

Fluttershy was trotting by the edge of the Everfree Forest, humming happily to herself when a bear cub came running out. At first she was afraid, but something about the cub made her curious, so she approached it slowly. "H-hello, are you lost little bear?" It stopped and stared for a few moments, then let out a pained whimper. "Oh dear, that's terrible! Take me to her, and I'll see what I can do."

The cub turned and ran back into the forest, going slow enough to let Fluttershy keep up. After twenty minutes they emerged into a clearing, and she immediately saw the problem. On the other side was the cub's mother, one of it's paws trapped in a strange metal device. Closer inspection revealed sharp metal teeth, some of which were stabbing into the bear's leg. It tried to pull it's leg out, but stopped with a painful howl. "Oh dear, please don't do that, I'll get you out."

She tried to pry the bars apart, but they wouldn't budge, so she had a look at the bottom of the device. There was a button on it with strange writing, so she pushed it. The device instantly fell apart, and the bear fell forward. Fluttershy gave the wounds a one over, and discovered they weren't that deep. She reached into her saddlebags and pulled out a tube of cream. "Now hold still, this will sting a bit, but it will help." She gently rubbed the cream on the leg, the bear wincing. "There, that should do it. Now, be careful where you walk for now." The bear gave her cheek a lick, and disappeared into the forest.

Fluttershy looked around and tried to get her bearings, but froze when she heard bushes rustling behind her. She could hear thudding getting closer, and jumped into the bushes to her side. She couldn't see anything, but she could hear it, walking around the clearing. And then it spoke. "Where the fuck is my dinner?"

She gasped as she recognised the voice, shocked she had found him so easily. "A-a-alec, is t-t-t-that you?" He stopped moving, and came closer to the bush. Fluttershy started shaking as a rifle barrel was pushed through, pointing right at her face.

"Who's in there? Come on out, slowly."

"O-o-okay." She followed the barrel as it withdrew, stepping back out into the clearing, smiling as she finally saw him after over a month with no contact.

"Fluttershy? Shit!" And with that he took off, heading deeper into the forest. Something in Fluttershy made her chase him, and she managed a pace where she could still see him. She closed her eyes for a moment and when she reopened them he was gone. She looked the the scenery, finally at a place where she could get her bearings. Zecora's cottage would be to her left, Applejack's farm to her right. The farm was closer, so she took off and flew as hard as she could.

"Art thou certain this is where he was?"

"Yes your majesty. It was definitely here." With a quick wave of her head, her personal guard spread out, searching the area. After two hours of searching, their efforts turned out to be in vain, and the refused to meet Luna's gaze. In their eyes they had failed her. She trotted over to the nearby tree and reared up, stamping her forehooves on the ground in frustration. There was dull thud, as if she struck something hollow. A few taps and she was rewarded with the same sound.

"Guards, clear the ground here immediately!" They did so quickly, revealing a slab of crystal. Luna tried to teleport past it, but didn't even move, and that is when Applejack came over.

"'e said that it was protected by unicorn magic, so Ah guess that means all magic." The guards started digging at the ground, going far enough to reach the bottom of the slap. With a mighty heave they pushed it up, revealing a cave underneath it. The parted as Luna came over, looking in to the darkness. She cast an illumination spell, and walked down in to it. It was a fairly simple shelter, with just a bed, oven, and fridge. There was a small pile of abandoned supplies in the corner, meaning he had taken only the essentials. Something silver caught her attention under the bed.

She lifted it up to find all but two of his weapons, meaning that he wanted to travel light, and quick. He would disappear forever if they didn't find him soon. "Fluttershy, how long ago was it that you saw him?"

"About two hours ago, your highness."

"Then he couldn't have gotten far. Captain, summon reinforcements, enough to surround the forest." He saluted and took off, heading towards Ponyville. They left the shelter and stood in the clearing, the remaining guards looking for any evidence of where he was. They all looked to the centre of the clearing, where a small cylindrical object had thudded to ground. Luna leant closer, before her eyes went wide with shock, she had seen such a item before! Nopony had time to react as it exploded with a flash and a high pitched whistle, blinding and disorientating them. Luna felt herself moving as she tried to clear her senses, and then dropped to the floor.

Once the ringing in her eyes died down and her vision returned, she looked around. She was alone now, laying on a cliff overlooking the forest. A rock falling caused her to turn, where she could just make a bipedal shadow. Her heart jumped like a school filly talking to her crush as he stepped into the light. "A-a-alec?"

He looked her in the eyes, before turning his back to her. "If you haven't worked it out by now, I'll tell you myself. Leave. Me. Alone." With that he jumped of the cliff, and glided above the trees, Luna's outstretched fore hoof reaching for him.

"No... I will not let you run."

"...once you have eyes on, you are to contact me. Is that understood?" The soldiers were paying rapt attention to the admiral. This was the full briefing, with all information unclassified. They had tracked three entry paths on to the planet, landing in three separate locations. The first scan was a bust, just a smoking crater in the desert. The second was a smoking hole in a canyon. The third was a damaged shuttle, registered to the Friendship Of Magic.

That ship was legendary amongst the fleets, one of the few true 'ghost' ships. The admiral's earlier mission had been declassified, and they at first thought it was a joke. At least until they saw the results of the planetary scans. "You will be split in to five teams. Team Alpha will secure the bigger crash site, and locate the black box. Team Bravo will head to the shuttle, and scout out the local city that we scanned. Team Charlie will scout out the city on the mountain. Teams Delta and Echo will secure the smaller crash site and scout the nearby town."

"Ma'am, I have a question."

"Yes lieutenant?"

"Is it really him? I mean, I can understand why you want to find him, but for it to actually be true... it would be nothing short of an act of God. I don't know about you, but I don't believe in that shit. Give me something to shoot and I'm happy."

"Yes, it would be an act of God, wouldn't it? Or perhaps there is something else here at work. You know as well as I do that our very notions of existence changed when we encounter other species, and what they could do." She turned round and type commands in to a terminal, a hologram appearing with different creatures on it. "The dominant species on this planet seems to be quadrupeds, close to the ponies that humanity had on Terra a thousand years ago. There are also some other creatures, from our very old legends. We have confirmed the existence of griffons and Minotaur, but their territory is nowhere near our locations, so we shall avoid them for now."

Another soldier, a clear rookie, spoke up. "Ma'am, where does the SOS signal come from?"

"It comes from the damaged shuttle, why do you ask?"

"Well, it doesn't make sense to send only one squad there, Surely that is where we should concentrate our searches? And what about the Solar Reich?"

"A good point, however thermal scans show the shuttle is empty, and low on power. I would like to think that he would seek out help as soon as possible, as there is no way he would be able to fix that vessel on his own. The Solar Reich will be providing support from orbit, and keeping an eye on our blind spots. You have twenty four hours to prepare, and report to your designated launch tubes. Now, get ready."

The entire room stood and saluted, speaking in unison. "Yes ma'am!" They all turned to filter out, except the lieutenant and private that had asked questions. They just stood their studying the map. The admiral took note of their shoulder patches, a sniper's rifle placed over a flaming comet, a smirk playing across her features.

"So, you're both from the 105th? I have a separate job for you." The map changed and a new area was highlighted. It was a small section of forest just to the east of the small town. It changed to a thermal video instead of a image, and a small orange blob appeared, running from a slightly smaller one. The large disappeared, and the smaller one stopped. The video was shifted, and they noticed it was two hours later. There were more blobs, searching round the area. Once flew away a while later, and then something flared on the screen, and a larger blob than all the others left the area.

Once it stopped moving they saw it was in fact two blobs, and they stayed still for a while, then one moved around a little, before taking a short run, and from what the camera showed, jumped off a cliff. The image changed to a coloured video still. There were three with lights down the back, two in the middle of the arms, and red and green navigation lights at the extremities. "That was a few hours ago, and we are currently tracking a large force moving to surround that forest. You two are going to drop in and try to spot him. If you do, stay on him, and make sure he stays alive. Is that understood?"

They both replied in unison. "Yes ma'am."

Author's Note

Conflict resolution......I may have lied. I do have an idea. Some of you may recognise the latest section, but with different parts.

For those who did read that story, no......it isn't going to go the same way. That's why it's a separate story.

Chapter 22: The Rift starts to close.

"....ma'am, we have eyes on. We have him." The two snipers were on a ridge overlooking the forest. The had seen a male human running amongst the trees, a pistol in his hands. The private kept track of him whilst the lieutenant watched the clearing where they first saw him. He was about to turn away, but movement at the tree line caught his eye. A white pony emerged, wearing a golden helmet and saddle. Twenty more appeared, matching the first. They had to be soldiers. He then saw glowing around their heads, and zoomed in. They had horns, meaning that there were unicorns here as well.

Another shape moved from the trees, larger than the others, and with wings. He decided it looked female, and watched it's mouth open and close, before the soldiers turned and looked around. He clicked his radio again. "Uh, ma'am? These ponies can talk."

There was a burst of static and the admirals image appeared on his HUD. "What do you mean?"

"I just watched one give orders out. I think... they are hunting him."

"You are to make sure he is safe. Do not fire unless you have no other choice, and only to injure. We do not know what they are capable of. Is that clear?"

"Yes ma'am." She disappeared from the screen and he went back to watching the ponies, tracking as they followed the path the human had taken. After half an hour the ponies had caught up, surrounding him. The large blue female walked up to him, and he slumped to his knees in defeat. The lieutenant clicked his radio again. "Ma'am they have got him! I'm uplinking you to my vid, so you can give us orders." He hit a button on his scope so that they could see. "Do we have a shoot order?"

"...."

"Ma'am?" The large pony moved closer.

"...take the shot."

"Yes ma'am." He pulled the rifle closer to his shoulder, took a few breaths, and pulled the trigger. "Shot taken." Back at the temporary camp, every human was watching the screen, hoping that he would get out safe, and somehow back to them.

I took a chance to rest, leaning against a tree and breathing heavily. Why couldn't they just leave me alone? The sound of rustling drew my attention, and I snapped the pistol up. A Lunar guard emerged, and we just stood there staring at each other. More rustling and another thirty guards appeared, surrounding me. There was no way I could beat them all. A shadow in the back moved closer, revealing itself to be Luna. She slowly trotted towards me and I fell to my knees, dropping the pistol. "Fine, you win. I won't run any more!"

"I never wanted you to in the first place, I only wanted to speak with you." She had her gaze to the ground just in front of me.

"Yeah, well... here I am. What do you want to speak about?" Before she could answer I heard a loud boom followed by a high pitched whistle. Seconds later Luna fell to the floor screaming. There was a bullet wound on her left side, so I check her right, and found nothing. A quick check revealed no exit holes, so I placed my hand over the wound. "Hang in there Luna, it'll be okay." I turned to the nearest guard. "You, get back to the castle and get some unicorns out here to teleport her back! And have one bring box thirty seven from my old room."

He nodded once and took off, the others spreading out and covering us. I felt a hoof stroke my cheek weakly, and turned back to see Luna smiling up at me. "Y-y-you still c-c-care?" I grabbed the hoof with my other hand and squeezed gently.

"I never stopped. Just lie still, help is coming." Some flashes in front of me signalled the arrival of the unicorns. One of them was carrying a padlocked black crate. I then saw Luna's horn faintly glowing, and felt a tingle across my body. I looked at my hands to see them coated in a blue aura, the rest of me the same. She smiled once and then fell unconscious.

"Er, ma'am, I think we just made a big mistake." Every soldier stood still watching the screens, watching as he made sure the large pony was all right. There were flashes as more ponies arrived, and he was now coated in an aura of blue . He was given a black crate as they gathered the large one up and flashed away, the ones with wings flying away. He bent down and opened the case, starting to pull a strange black vest. Once he had donned it, he bent down and pulled out a long black object.

Standing, he slipped it's sling over his shoulder, and then seemed to tense up. After five minutes of standing there, he started moving, but differently to before.The gathered troops heard the roaring without need of the cameras. That forest was ten miles away. The admirals voice came over the radio. "Get out of there, now!"

The screen changed from a rifle scope to a helmet cam as they turned and ran. They kept going, not slowing once. The telemetry from their ship showed they had seven miles to go, and parallel screen showed a thermal scan. He was almost upon them. The helmet cam stopped and the lieutenant turned to help the rookie who had tripped over a tree root, and they went to carry on, but it was too late. He had caught them. A wave of whispered horror went through the camp as they saw him up close. Every breath was punctuated with a growl as he strode forwards. The two soldiers pulled out their sidearms and fired, emptying the clips into him.

He just stood there and took it. They thought he was done, but then his wounds closed over and he roared at them. In the command centre, the admiral looked on with shock. "No...how can he be alive?" They watched as he walked forward, right up to the rookie, and turned towards the lieutenant. Without any warning, he whipped his arm up, striking the rookie in the face with his rifle and sending him flying. He then turned to the lieutenant and took a few steps, but stopped when a flash off light went off to the right of the camera.

Another large pony, white this time, with both wings and a horn, trotted in between them. It was close enough that the helmet mic could pick up her voice, and though they couldn't understand it, it sounded motherly and experienced. "Ehto pola, theram goport, Alec?" She had said his name, did that mean he could unders...

"Tumbrew figsam trichum Luna!"

"Yongrey, himtop armlip rowcom." More flashes went off and a few more ponies arrived, all of them with horns. "Selim, grot jamtop humfog." Three of them walked over to the slumped rookie and disappeared in a flash. The large one motioned with a hoof to the the lieutenant. "Tre ko yot." He started to back away as some of them approached him, but the view went to the ground as something pushed the lieutenant forward. He whipped round to show their target, who was growling lightly.

"Lim stro dre gim wrom, hmm?"

"Alec, yot hrim po. Yi selim hig gro wuz." He stepped back and nodded, but not before titling his head in curiosity. His hand came up and covered the camera, and there was burst of static. When then screen came back he was walking away, and they could see the lieutenants terrified face. Three more had surrounded him, and he too disappeared in a flash. The camera was twisted around as he inspected it, and brought the lens to his face, growling into it. "Ro kei ut jogkim?"

He looked to the side and nodded, then dropped the camera. The last thing the screen showed was the underside of his boot, and then it went dark. The thermal image showed flaring as the others left, leaving just two others behind. The came close together and then another flare signalled their disappearance. The thermal image showed nothing. One voice amongst the crowd shouted what they we all thinking. "What the fuck just happened?"

The lieutenant followed as two of the soldier ponies took the private, who was draped across their backs, out of the room they had arrived in. He noticed that the way was lined with them, all watching him with stone faces and piercing blue eyes. They entered a white door, and he noticed a red cross on the window, so knew they at least had a hospital.

He glanced down a side corridor and saw different guards, with serpent like eyes, and rows of sharp teeth. They glared at him as he walked by, making him nervous. There was a flash from the side of him and the large white pony appeared by his side, matching his pace. 'Hello.'

"Who just said that?"

'I did. I am in your mind. Do not panic, it is purely a means of communication, I am not reading it."

"Ooookay. So, what's going to happen?"

'You and your friend are going be given medical treatment. Once you are back to full health, you will be tried for your crime.'

"Crime? What crime?"

'Attacking Equestrian royalty.' With the the pony turned away, heading down the side corridor with the strange guards. He stopped walking, realising that he may not be going home after all. "Truko!" A hand was pushed on his shoulder, and he saw their target out of the corner of his eye. He still had his rifle, and his right hand was resting on top of his pistol. "Truko!" This time he added a pointing finger, so he started moving again. Once through the next doors he was left with his comrade, some doctors, and whole host of guards. One motioned to a chair and he nodded, taking a seat whilst the doctors tended to the rookie.

Celestia looked up from Luna's sleeping form as the door slammed open, Alec standing there with a scowl on his face. Without a word he walked past her, taking a seat on the edge of the bed. "Alec?"

He gave a low growl before speaking. "Not now. Later." She nodded and motioned to the guards in the room to follow, but stopped just outside the door. Placing her ear against the crack, she listened to him continue. "Hey Luna, been a while. You, uh, look pretty good, all things considered. I just want to say I'm sorry. If I hadn't been trying to avoid everyone you wouldn't be here right now."

She chanced cracking the door open a little, just enough to see through. He had moved position, now sitting behind Luna and running a hand through her mane whilst resting her head in his lap. "I don't know what's going to happen now more have arrived, and brought soldiers with them, but I promise you this. I will never let them touch you again." He bent down and kissed her forehead, then left her to rest. Celestia didn't have time to move as the door was pulled open. "Celestia."

"...yes?"

"We're you listening?"

"...maybe. Do you really think they were trying to attack her?"

"No, something doesn't fit, the puzzle pieces aren't all out in play yet. I think we should wait for them to show their next hand."

"And what about you and Luna?"

"We'll get through this, I know we will. I'm going to get something to eat, then some rest. I gotta be ready. If anyone does see them coming, allow them to reach the castle, but trap them inside. It'll force them to act, and then we'll know their intentions."

"How?"

"Easy, if they surrender, then they weren't trying to kill Luna. If they fight, then they were. Only time will tell."

Team one slowly moved through the shadows, heading towards the castle at the top of the city. They had guessed local time was around two thirty in the morning. Team two would be doing the same on the other side. Sending twenty soldiers to rescue two others sounded a little excessive, but they didn't know what to expect.

They reached the eastern wall, seeing the gate open and a single guard next to it. It seemed disinterested, absent mindedly scraping it's hoof on the floor. The i/c waved back, and swept his arm out left. One of the other troops nodded, and slid up next to the wall. He slowly eased his way along it, until he was behind the pony. He leapt forward and placed an arm around the neck, the other over it's muzzle. Another soldier ran up and stuck the syringe in, then also held the pony still. It's wings shot out and started to flap out of sync, before it slumped to the floor, tongue hanging out. A quick check showed it was still breathing.

They pulled the limp body in to the shadows, and then stacked up around the gate. The i/c gave a nod, and they charged through, emerging into a garden. Once clear he pulled out his data pad, looking at the highlighted path from the orbital picture. Their route took them through a maze, so a little help was welcomed. They slid in one by one, five metres apart, and sticking to the hedges. They neared the first corner and crept around, holding position. It was then that the i/c noted he now only had eight men instead of nine. He stuck his head back around the corner and saw nothing save a rifle on the ground. He held up his fist to hold position, and carefully eased his way back around.

There was a shout from the head of the column, and he spun back to see seven men with their guns aimed the hedge. He heard three small coughs from a silenced weapon and then nothing. There was something in here with them, and it knew where they were. Abandoning all stealth, they ran down the path. One by one the troops vanished, until there was only him and another. They were about to emerge in to the centre, and as the i/c went to signal to move, he saw two glowing gold orbs behind the other one.

Before he could say anything the trooper was pulled through the hedge, followed by a flash of light. The i/c was really panicking now, and ran to the centre, standing on a stone table. He figured that as long as he stayed away from the edges, he'd be safe. He calmed his beating heart and looked for any signs of...whatever it was, but saw nothing, dropping his rifle. His eyes were darting to every shadow, expecting to see it, but stopped when he heard soft growling to his side.

With a slow turn of his head, he saw the glowing orbs next to him, and tried to raise his rifle, but it was being held firm. The air around the orbs wavered, revealing an armoured human. It's other hand came up and lifted him up by his combat vest, then threw him to the dirt. The i/c brought his pistol up as he knelt, and was about to fire when the other human leapt at him, knocking him back towards the ground. There was a flash of light and he hit concrete, giving out a groan.

The weight that was on top of him had disappeared, so he sat up. He was in a well lit... cave, but there were bars in the way. It was then he noticed the rest of the cells, all having one human each. In the middle of the floor was a pile of their weapons. He indistinctly reached for his, but found them missing. There was a flash of light to his left as the cell diagonally opposite gained an occupant. It was his equal from team two. Another flash in the centre and two beings appeared. One was the human, the other a strange mismatch of creatures. The door opened and some of the pony guards trotted in. After a hushed conversation, they lifted the weapons with some sort of invisible tech, and took them out of the room.

The two in the centre pounded fists together, and the strange one left in a flash of light. The human removed it's helmet, revealing their initial target. He looked around at the troops, giving small growls every now and then. Once he had done a pass of all cells, he walked over to the door. He then spoke in that strange language. "Tymin kegtru. Litreg jopre tri."

A procession of ponies entered, none of them guards. They looked more like servants. Each one had a horn that was glowing, a tray floating beside them in the same colour as their auras. They each took a cell and placed the trays on the floor, lifting the lids to reveal steaming meals. There was a scream from one of the cells opposite, where on of the troops had grabbed the pony, his arm around it's neck. The mare, for it looked female, was breathing heavily. "G-g-gop thi! Gop thi!"

"You let us go, I'll let her go." The free human slowly moved closer, speaking to the pony.

"Trighon, trighon. T frak dri hu, gru hos..." He had moved nearer, and with speed that is unnatural for a human, leapt forward and impacted his hand on the troop's chest, who was thrown back against the cell wall. He bent down and helped the mare to her hooves, moving her away from the bars. He kicked the tray over, the food spilling on the dirty floor. Every other trooper had all ready got their food, so the ponies left. He gave one last growl and left the room. The message was clear, misbehave and they would be punished.

Luna winced as the doctor placed a new dressing on her chest, wrapping the bandage around her back. He tied it off and checked her vitals, recording them down on her charts. He gave a nod and left the room. Luna turned her head to the window, watching the few clouds drift by. She looked to the door as she heard a hushed conversation, and then a raised voice. It wasn't what was said, but who by, that made her heart jump for joy. "I was perfectly clear! Fried daisies and haycakes! Go back and try again, or I'm going to ram my foot up your arse!"

"Fine! Fired daisies and haycakes coming up, your highness." The sound of hoofsteps moving away came through the door.

"Smart ass." She tried to get out of bed, but pain flared in her chest and she felt herself briefly falling, squeezing her eyes shut for the pain that never arrived. She could hear a heart beating, and opened her eyes to see a set of beige arms holding her steady. "And what do you think you are doing out of bed?"

She was pushed back up into a sitting position, back against the head board. Alec sat down and cupped her fore hooves with his hands, staring at the floor. "Thank you... for everything."

"Don't thank me for any of it Luna, I don't deserve it. Once I'm certain that they're gone, I'll be leaving. I don't want to hurt you again, and the only way to ensure that is to be as far away as possible." Luna had heard enough, and even though her chest hurt, she pulled her hooves away. He didn't look up, nodding once and preparing to stand. This was her chance. She lifted his head up by the chin and placed her forehoof on his cheek... then whipped it back and slapped him. He didn't turn his head back from where it had ended.

"You think that I'd go through all this just for you to walk away again? You have truly learnt nothing about me, have you?"

"I've learnt enough. Enough to know that I don't deserve you, and never have. Which is why I'll be leaving. Hurt us both now, so that if we do meet again, it doesn't hurt then." He stood up and walked to the door, trying to pull it open. It was then he noticed the door was tinted slightly blue. "Luna..."

"You may leave if that is your wish, but first you will hear what I have to say. These last two months have been hay for me. We have lost ten castle chefs, ten! And all because of me and my anger. That night, out on the clouds, you were going to say something to me. Something important, I could see it in your eyes. Does that still hold true now?"

His hand dropped from the door handle, balling into fists at his sides. He slowly exhaled, and relaxed, still not turning around. "...yes, it does. But you deserve better." She cut the magic to the door, but still he remained, and she realized he was waiting for her to continue. Instead she focused her magic, let it wrap around his body, and lifted him back over to the bed, dropping him into a sitting position next to her.

Before he had a chance to move, she pressed against his side, holding him there with a nuzzle to his chin. "Then the unpleasantries are out of the way, and we can begin to clean this mess away. Alec, you say that you don't deserve me, and that may be true..." He turned his head away, staring at nothing in particular on the wall. "...but that doesn't matter if you are the one... that I want, does it? Alec, please... look at me?"

A slight twitch, almost imperceptible, as his head turned a little. And then he carried on, finally letting her see his eyes. They were bloodshot and slightly puffy, and Luna understood why her sheets were wet when she awoke that day. He seemed to be entranced by her now, having lost the ability to look else where as he leaned closed. He hesitated for a moment, and chose to instead rest his head on Luna's. She shifted slightly, making his drop down to a pre planned position, bringing his lips to hers. His arms slowly came up and wrapped round her, careful to avoid her wound.

After a few moments Luna pulled away with a slight gasp. She looked up to his eyes with a smile. "Mmm, I've missed that taste... I could never get enough." Alec smiled, and started to press closer, until a pony clearing their throat snapped their heads towards the door.

"That may be your, majesty, but until I sign you off, I don't want you doing anything more strenuous than that, understood? And that goes for you as well!" They both nodded and flopped back against the headrest, smiling.

Chapter 23

The door to Celestia's office swung open with a slam, and she looked up to see Alec standing there with a scowl on his face. "Where are they?" She nodded to her two assistants who quickly gathered up their papers and left, not making eye contact with the pissed off human as they trotted past. Celestia floated a cup of tea over and sipped it, before responding.

"Where are who, exactly?"

"Don't play games with me, you know who I am talking about." He took a couple of steps in to the room, and she saw that he had taken his 'assault vest', as he called it, off but still had the pistol attached to his belt. "They're not in the dungeons, and the guards are refusing to tell me."

"And that is because you would seek out Discord to take them back there. But, I shall tell you. They are currently in a guest room each, and have at least five guards outside the doors every moment. We are safe."

"I only want one of them."

"I have already told you, they are not to be injured. Once we have sorted things out, I believe we may let them go."

"I just want the one that took the shot, make him apologise. I promise not to hurt him..." Alec's gaze dropped to the floor, so Celestia cleared her throat. "...much."

"I will take him to apologise in your stead. You, however, will remain away from the infirmary at such time. Is that understood?" He turned and walked out of the room. "I asked you a question!" His voice came through the gap, echoing from an adjoining corridor.

"Yes!"

The lieutenant stood up from the chair as the door came open, and the large white mare entered. He stepped back involuntarily and hit his ass on the desk. The mare smiled at him and shook her head. 'It seems that you having been cleared of all charges, but I must have some information.'

"Okay, but I'm not going to tell you anything that puts my fellow soldiers in danger."

'Oh, we all ready know where they are. That, however, is not what I want to know. It is quite simple in fact, which one of you took the shot?" His head dropped and he stared at the floor, his voice a whisper.

"...me."

'Then it is time for your punishment. Follow me.' She turned and left the room, and he followed, seeing ten guards around them. They went down the corridors towards the infirmary, and turned down the one with the strange looking ponies. They still glared at him, but moved away from the doors when the white mare nodded. They entered and he saw the blue one, noting it was a mare as well, sitting against the bed and looking over some paperwork. She gave a glance up and tilted her head in curiosity. 'This is my sister, Princess Luna. She is still recovering, so I will translate for you.' "Luna, grut tu gri thu sa?"

"Dre, ti wae gre ghi. Alec hun dra nog fre?"

"Ki, fug hru sta. Yin cor fus, guh jil fri hs." Setting the paperwork on the side in a neat pile, Luna looked to him and then nodded once. 'She will hear your apology.' He walked over and stood at attention, locking his eyes with hers.

"Ma'am, I would like to apologise for harming you."

"Gro, ti gret nir thu ge ornaly gew ot."

"We thought you were... hunting him, and we were ordered to make sure he stayed alive. I was ordered to take the shot, but only to injure. I can't imagine what would've happened had I misjudged that shot."

"Ro fhog hy dre seind ke, ro flo ertin fe Alec theg asd. Ti fla ertin ty fe tig, oin fe guhin. Ti het finry suh drolin aronew fu ti jumkilo tine tig." Luna closed her eyes for a moment, letting the information sink in. She opened then again and waved a hoof at him. 'She wants you to approach.'

He did so with a small amount of hesitation, but he sat on the edge of the bed next to her. She edged forward and rested her fore hooves on his shoulders, placing her head against his. The sound of arguing came through the door. "Hu jil fe thew! Ti og de Luna loa fre!"

'Oh no, perhaps you should move away?" Before he had a chance to there was the sound of fighting, and one of the strange ponies was thrown through the door. It swung open afterwards and Alec walked in, dragging the other one by a hoof. His yellow tinted eyes settled on the pair on the bed, and he leapt forward and pried them apart with a snarl.

He threw the other human to the wall, standing between him and Luna, growling at him. The voice of the mare on the bed caused Alec to turn around. "Alec, guh ert fit hig! Tu das yunth fegi!" He visibly deflated, but kept his hands balled as he moved back to the corner.

Celestia waved the lieutenant out of the room, and they left the infirmary. 'I apologise for that. I had asked him to stay away whilst you apologised.'

"Just what happened in there?"

'He and my sister are... involved.' He stopped walking and stared at the floor. 'Is... something the matter?'

"Him... and your sister?"

'Yes. I understand that may be a little shocking for you, but understand this. Love knows no bounds.'

"You don't need to tell me. I was almost charged with treason for getting with another species whilst we were at war with them. Turns out that it actually helped broker the ceasefire, but we were banned from seeing each other again. It's not as rare as you'd think within our species."

'Oh. He had a small issue with it when he arrived. But what has shocked you?'

"Well, I've never met a species such as yours before, but I'm assuming that both Luna and yourself are classed as attractive. How the fuck did he manage to snag her?"

'It wasn't all smooth sailing, trust me. Ah, we are here.' They were outside a different door, one with a six stars surrounding a larger one in the centre. 'This is where we part ways for the time being. Have fun!' She disappeared in a flash and the door swung open, revealing a purple mare, smiling up at him.

"Oh, you've arrived! This is going to be so much fun, you can tell me all your recent history!" He followed her inside in a state of shock. This pony was speaking his language. She gestured to a chair with a wing and sat behind the desk. He sat down and continued to stare at her. "Now then, first things first. I am Twilight Sparkle, princess of Friendship. May I ask your name?" His face slowly cracked into a smile, and then a big grin. He may not have known much more then how to be a soldier, but nearly every human knew of what was described as 'the worst piece of literature written by humanity, ever. Of all time'. He promptly blew a fuse laughing whilst Twilight sighed.

"...not another one... this is going to be a long day."

"Luna, can I turn around now?"

"No, you are going to stay in the corner and think about what you have done." I gave a sigh, and rested my head where the walls met each other. Man, was she pissed. I don't even know what happened. One minute I'm trying to see her, and then I find myself in the room whilst she is hugging another human. Something inside me snapped, and I had to get him away from her. "You can answer my question though. Why?"

"...I didn't want him to hurt you."

"...and?" I kept my mouth shut, not wanting to admit it. I was hoping that my silence would make her think that was all, but I had forgotten how perceptive she was. "Well come on, tell me the rest."

"I may have been... slightly... aggravated with how close he was."

I jumped as I felt myself pulled from the wall, landing on my back across the bed, with Luna looking down at me with a glowing horn. "Alec....were you jealous?" I said nothing and looked away. "Fine, don't tell me. But I will find out." Before I could answer she ran her hooves over my ribs, and I started laughing.

After ten minutes of staying as still as possible so as not to further injure her, she stopped, leaving a hoof over my heaving chest as I got my breath back. I chanced a glance out of the side of my eye, seeing Luna smirking at me. Her hoof started to move slowly towards my ribs again.

"FINE! Yes, I was jealous!" She stopped moving, mouth hanging open and staring at me. I sat up and wrapped my arms around her. "I don't know why, but I was. When I saw you two like that, I just... snapped." She moved her head slightly, putting her mouth next to my ear.

"'We belong to each other', remember?" I moved my head up a little and started nibbling her ear, smiling as she giggled. "A-a-alec, stop that! The doctor said nothing too strenuous!"

"Well, then... just lie back and think of Equestria." I slipped my hand down to her thigh, and she let out a sharp gasp, gripping me with her fore hooves. I slowly laid her down on her back, and slid down the bed. After a quick glance to make sure the door was shut, I dove under the bedsheets. "You weren't the only one who missed the taste." I felt her thighs squeeze together as I started.

She had tried the kitchens. She had tried the gardens. She even tried Luna's sanctuary, but Celestia couldn't find Alec anywhere. She had assumed that Luna would've sent him away to think on his actions, so with a sigh entered the infirmary. She noted the the Lunar Guards were not at the door, but rather in the waiting area. They seemed to be... flirting with the nurses, so she ignored them and pushed the door open. "Luna, what happened to Alec?"

There was a flurry of motion as she grasped the paperwork and scrutinised a random page, her face flustered. "Alec? I..uh, don't know. Have you tried the kitchens?"

"Twice. I wondered if you had sent him somewhere, but he is not in the castl..." She looked at the bed, seeing something strange. "Luna... have your rear legs grown?"

"...maybe?"

"Luna, if I were to lift this blanket, what would I see?" Something shifted under them, and as she looked up she saw that it was between Luna's rear legs... "I thought the doctor said to relax." There was another shift, which she took to be Alec shrugging.

"I am relaxinaah!! Alec, stop! We have comapnahhh!" Celestia slowly backed away, whilst staring at the wall above Luna. Now she knew why her cheeks were flushed. She pushed her way through the door, still backwards as it swung closed. Her flank hit something soft, and there was an audible 'poomf'. She turned her head to see a set of white wings stretched out, the owner's face buried by her tail. Which meant that the soft thing was a muzzle.

She slowly inched forward, revealing the shocked face of the guard captain. She looked around and saw nopony looking, and disappeared in a flash. The captain looked around at the new room he was in, before his gaze settled on the bed, it's covers emblazoned with a sun. Unknown to him, Celestia felt a little turned on after leaving her sister's hospital room.

He slowly turned and walked towards the door, but found himself floating in the air, the door getting smaller. He was dumped on the bed and rolled over to see Celestia looking down at him, a wicked smile on her face. "And where do you think you are going? Your princess has need of your services."

Fifty ponies stood in the training grounds, milling about. The doors at the far end swung open and ten guards trotted out, standing in a line at the front. Another pony followed, but he was wearing the purple of Captain of the Guard. He walked the first line, eyeing up the recruits. He gave a huff and made his way to the centre of the formation. "Good morning trainees. Toady is the beginning of your guard training. Not all of you will be cut out to be a guard, and even then, we will find a role for you. Is that what you want?" There was a few murmurs in the centre, and he stopped his pacing. "I can't hear you!"

"SIR, YES SIR!"

"That's better! Now, in your duties here, you will see a great many things. Some of them may be... disturbing. But do your job, and you will go far. For the single stallions, and mares, among you, the armour of a Royal Guard is the first hoof in the door. For those of you with special someponies all ready... tough. Now, we have a new test for you."

Before he could continue there was a flash next to him, and everypony instantly bowed to the floor, with the exception of the Captain. He instead shot up rigid, eyes staring directly at nothing. "So, are these the new..." Celestia found herself talking to an empty space as the Captain shot across the courtyard, screaming like a filly, and hiding in a bush. "...recruits?"

She trotted over to the bush, and stuck her head in. The Captain was curled in the foetal position, shaking lightly. He looked at her once and then squeezed his eyes shut. "Come now Captain, you can't see you didn't enjoy it, and I might have been a bit more... forceful than I would normally be. We'll talk later, for now attend to your recruits." He saw the flash of light through his eyelids, and opened them to find himself alone. He slowly climbed out, and ignored the stares he was getting.

"As I said, some disturbing things. Now, your test. You are to restrain this, by any means possible." They looked at him if he was crazy, his hoof pointing to nothing but air.

"Uh... sir? What exactly are we supp..." He was cut off as something landed right next to the captain. They all took an involuntary step back as it stood to it's full height, nearly six foot. It slowly turned around and the ones who had heard the rumours of the strange new creature knew then that this was it.

"So Cap, what do you need me for?" It could speak? They way it was crouching slightly made it seem feral. "I've got things I need to sort out today."

"Won't take long, sir." He called this thing sir? Why? "Just need your help. Their test is to restrain you." The creature looked round and then nodded once, standing as still as a statue. It couldn't be that simple... could it? The Guards left the courtyard, and made their way to the balcony that was over looking it. "And... begin."

Some of the pegasi shot forward in the hopes of catching it off guard, but it was ready. As they drew close it jumped and flipped above them, pushing two to the floor with his arms and using them to get higher. It landed amongst the rest of them and they jumped back, clearing an area around it. It's gaze locked on a unicorn, and it started laughing as he teleported away.

The stallion trotted down the corridors of Canterlot Castle, looking for a specific pony. His marefriend on the weather team had told him of a strange creature that was Princess Luna's consort. It was the only thing that fitted, and they were told to restrain him any way they could. As he trotted round the corner he bumped in to another pony, hearing them wince as he fell to the floor.

"Oh, hello. And whom might you be?" He looked up and smiled, his plan was coming to fruition.

It was almost laughable. There was a pile of twenty pegasi pressing on my back as some unicorns kept trying to use magic on me. I guess they didn't know that they were recharging my energy levels. I got bored and stood up from my crouch, causing the pegasi to collapse to the ground. More were waiting, so I ran towards the wall. They got closer, so I jumped into the air and kicked off the wall, landing behind them as they crashed into it.

I laughed again until something brushed across my ass. I knew there were mares here, but would one of them really try that? Turning round to chuck the pony back in to the pile, I instead came across Luna, who immediately stood on her hind legs and wrapped her fore hooves around my neck. "Luna, I'm a little busy hemmpphh!" She cut me off with a passionate kiss, putting enough pressure on me to make me fall to the floor. She slowly got off and backed away, keeping her eyes locked with mine.

The next thing I saw was dirt, and could feel a pony sitting on my back. I tried to stand up, but for some reason I couldn't move. "Well done, young pony. Tell me, what is you name?" I could hear the amusement in Luna's voice.

"Warper, your majesty."

"And would you care to explaining your talent?"

"I can artificially increase or decrease gravity within a thirty hoof radius of my body." Well, that explained why I couldn't move, so turned my head to look at the pony on my back. It was the one the I laughed at for teleporting away. "Thank you for your assistance, princess."

"Any time. Could you let him up now? We have to get him clean for lunch." The pony climbed off me, and I sat up, shaking my head at Luna. "Oh please, this is nothing. Now come, lunch is in two hours and you must be at your best. Are you still sure you want to go through with this though?"

My hand went to my neck, where I felt the dog tags and ring once more. I wrapped them in my fingers and closed my eyes. This wasn't a decision made on a whim since yesterday. Truth be told, I was considering it since before my revenge on Luna. I open my eyes to try and see something that would dissuade me from doing so. The recruits were laughing and joking, until the Guards came down and herded them along to their next lesson.

The castle gardeners came out and got to work on the flower beds. Even Discord was just lounging around. Okay, the pink cloud raining chocolate milk that he was lying on was a little weird, but he was the god of chaos. And then there was Luna, still looking at me for an answer. I gripped the tags tighter and pulled, removing them from my neck, and then dropping them to the floor, not breaking my gaze. "....yes."

Author's Note

What would you have done in the Captains place? Come on, honest answers please!

So, what do you think he is planning to do?

Chapter 24: Decision time.

Admiral Luckes held on tight as the Eagle flared up, coming to a stop above the castle courtyard. She looked out the window as it descended, seeing ponies lining the rolled out red carpet that led to the hastily created landing pad. The updraft caused it to wobble for a moment, before settling on the ground. The door opened and she stepped out, followed by her command crew, dressed in their best uniforms. Well, the best that they had brought with them.

They saw the two large ponies and walked towards them, stopping around two meters away. The white one walked forward, wings flaring out. It then spoke, with some difficulty. "H-h-hello. I a-am Princ-c-cess Celestia. Wel-com to Equestria."

"Thank you, your majesty. I am Sarah Luckes." Both of the ponies' eyes widened at this, and the blue one jumped forward, the command crew stepping around the admiral.

"Yup fro gju Luckes?"

"Luna, op hitgy dre gur!" The blue one looked down to the ground sheepishly, before raising her head up again.

"I am s-sorry. I am Princ-ess Luna. Am I rig-ht in as-king you are fam-ly?"

"Yes, I am a descendant of his brother." The two looked to each other and nodded, motioning them to follow. They did so, entering the castle and heading down the long corridor. Every few feet were guards, some pegasi, some unicorns, and some normal ponies. A large set of doors blocked their way, but the guards nearby turned and their horns started to glow. The doors swung open in the same coloured aura, and they entered a throne room.

It had been changed around a little for this occasion, a long table placed down it's length with seats around it. Twenty two of them were occupied by humans. Admiral Luckes saw one at the end wave her down, and she walked over to see the lieutenant. "Ma'am, welcome to Canterlot. You'll be sitting next to me." She followed his outstretched arm and sat down. Almost immediately they were served trays of soup.

It was then that she noticed the guards lining the walls, and the smaller table next to her where six ponies sat. Five of them had necklaces on that matched the marks on their flanks, the sixth with a tiara instead. She was seated closest to the admiral, and smiled at her. "Hello, nice to meet you. My name is Twilight Sp..." There was a snicker from the lieutenant, and the mare sighed. "My name is Twilight. It is very nice to meet you."

"The same, my name is Sarah. I must say you speak English very well."

"Well, I was taught to write first, and then it was just the case of learning the way to sound the words. And don't worry about Luna and Celestia, they struggled to learn it this morning, plus I'm a quick study."

"And very talkative too." There was a snort from the blue mare with a rainbow styled mane, and Twilight just glared at her. "I didn't say it was a bad thing. I assume Sergeant Luckes taught you?"

"Sergeant Luckes? Oh, you mean Alec. Yes, we spent nearly a whole day talking, mainly about him. He was the first human we had seen, after all."

"Speaking of, where is he?"

"Oh, he's around. He'll be here soon. He likes to...how do I put this? He seems to like annoying ponies, doing things like this, but I'll try to find out." She got up and walked to Luna. "Gru hot yu guj Alec?"

"Ti gu fre ut. Ul kige hur jik." The blue mare got up and left the room, waving her guards off. Twilight returned to her seat and smiled to Sarah.

"Luna's gone to get him, she shouldn't be long."

"Come on, how fucking hard can this be?" I turned to the door opening, watching as Luna walked in. "Is there a reason you're making me wear this monkey suit?"

"Well I for one think you look quite fetching in it. Now, what is taking you so long?"

"...I can't do this stupid fucking tie right." Luna trotted over and pushed my hands out of the way with her wings, using her magic to correctly set the tie. She finished with a quick kiss. "Thanks. Still think you should let me take care off them." Luna shook her head, laughing lightly.

"Oh hush now. Besides, I won't risk losing you." The silence was a little awkward, so I decided to change the subject.

"So, shall we get this over with?" She nodded and headed towards the door, before stopping and scrutinising my suit as I turned around.

"Alec, what is that bulge?" Ah shit. "If that is a weapon, take it out right now." I reached back and pulled the pistol out, laying it down on the desk. "They are not armed, so we can at least do the same. Now come, I have a surprise for you."

Sarah had spent the last ten minutes chatting up a storm with Twilight. The biggest shock was finding out that magic was real, and there was no hidden technology that the unicorns were utilising. She proved this by using magic to teleport the one called Rainbow Dash, who kept snickering at things she said, above her seat upside down. The pegasus managed to right herself just before she hit the floor.

Movement at the door way caught their attention, and she looked over to see Luna coming back, and walking next to her was... Sarah jumped up and ran down the hall. The two stopped walking and stared at her as she slowed to a crawl. She slowly approached, raising a hand when she got about a meter away. She moved her arm closer, and gently pushed against his chest. Once she had ascertained he was real, she leapt forward and wrapped her arms around his neck.

I didn't know how to react. I walked in with Luna, knowing that the others would be there, when this woman approached, and now was trying her best to snap my neck. I reached up and gently pulled her arms apart, stepping back a little bit. "Let's try this again. Hi, I'm Alec." I reached out my hand to her, and she smiled, sticking hers out.

"Hello Alec, my name is Sarah." Hundreds of memories flashed in front of my eyes, and the woman spoke again. "Sarah... Luckes." I fell to the floor in shock, breaths coming faster and faster. My family had survived? Were there more out there? How did they find me? All of these questions formed in my mind, but all my mouth could do was wobble, not sure what to say. "Are... you okay?"

My eyes lost focus on everything, and my hearing started to fade. I could hear them talking, but it was like I was underwater. My breathing was still fast, and my entire body started to tingle. And then Luna came into focus. Not her voice or her in general, but her eyes. I took all the strength I needed from them, standing once more. Sarah looked at me worriedly, but it was my turn to embrace her, actually lifting her off the floor in a bear hug.

"Alec?" I turned from the balcony to see Luna sat on my bed, something clearly bothering her by the tone of her voice. I closed the bay windows and sat down next to her, placing my arm across her shoulders. "This changes things doesn't it, knowing you have a family still? I know what you want to do, and... as much as I want you to stay... it is not my place to ask such a thing."

I shook my head, gaze lingering on the tags that had been placed on my desk. My choice was made, family or not, and nothing would change it now. I spun round and sat against the headboard, pulling Luna with me. "I am from a world far different to what they know now. I'd never get used to it, and it would slowly drive me mad. Besides, going with them would mean leaving you."

"But... these one are like you, and of your blood! Why would you forsake them for me?"

"Because I love you." She whipped her head round at me, mouth hanging open in shock. "Yes, I just said that. So now you know why I won't leave."

"But what if there is another of your species that you could meet?"

"So what if there is? Why would I attempt to find someone across hundreds of worlds, which may take years, when I can stay here and be happy now? Luna, I've made my decision. I'm staying." She slowly spun around, her front pressing on my chest instead of her back. There was relief in her eyes, and she leant closer, closing them. I did the same, meeting her soft lips with mine. As we pulled apart, Luna raised her hoof and stroked my cheek.

"uh, am I interrupting something?" We snapped our heads up to see Sarah looking in from the door.

"Sarah, we need to talk. Take a seat, because this is going to be a hard conversation." She did as asked, and I sat on the edge of the bed, facing her. It was then that I realised I couldn't tell the difference between Equestrian and English, but from Luna's confused face, I knew she didn't understand, which would make this slightly easier. "I know how it looks, how it's taboo... but... how do I put this?"

"You don't have to. Do you really think that in a thousand years of space travel we haven't met other species? The Galactic British Empire spreads through three galaxies. The Solar Reich covers ten. You are not the first one to... embrace the locals, and you will certainly not be the last."

"Thank you, that's the hardest part out of the way. Now then, how did you find me?"

"We got your SOS, and once we were authorized, came straight to this region of space."

"I'd forgotten about that. Okay then, why did you come?"

"You're family, why wouldn't I? I mean, sure, we're separated by a millenium, but we're still related. I couldn't call myself a Luckes if I didn't try."

"You sure you're a descendant of my brother?"

"Yes, why?"

"Because you sound nothing like that fat, arrogant cu..."

"Without Commander Luckes, none of us would be here."

"Commander... Luckes? Okay, you've definitely got the wrong person there."

"Really? So who is this then?" She pulled up a data pad and handed it to me. On the screen was a family tree, and her name was highlighted by a green line. I traced it back though time, and sure enough, there he was. Cmdr Luckes, (Initial unknown), right next to me, SGT Luckes, A. "He and his troops held off an overwhelming force for thirty years with supplies that should not have lasted ten."

"I can't believe it, but the proof is right before me. What is your mission here?"

"To take you home... or to avenge you, if we had to."

"And what if... I chose to remain?"

"But... why wouldn't you want to come home?"

"Because my home is Earth. I've seen how it looks now, remember. My home was destroyed, and this is the only other world I know. Two is enough for someone from my time. And there's another reason."

"What's that?" I turned around and smiled at Luna. "Oh... I see. So you are staying because of her?"

"Not just her, no. There are a few things. What you've told me of humanity... nothing has changed, we're still fighting each other. The worlds you've told me of are as alien as Mars was in my time. And then there's the matter that I have made many friends here, and I couldn't imagine life without them. Not with all the help they've given me. For example, after crashing here, I became a bit depressed. I tried to put a bullet in my head, but someone... pony was there to stop me. And now she's on my bed."

"I... understand. Is there nothing I can do to change your mind?" I stood up from the bed and walked over to her, leaning over the desk.

"Hold out your hands." She did as asked, and I dropped my dog tags into them. "That's me, right there. You've found me, you know I'm okay. I give you these as a memento of ages past. Do with them what you will, because I have no use for them any more."

"And the ring?"

"That belonged to someone a long time ago."

"Dr Hunt. It's all in your file, everything about you. Well, some bits are wrong, like it doesn't say anything about you and an alien princess... But at least we can take you off the M.I.A list. A discharge with full honours should do it. Last chance though."

"I'm staying."

"Very well. We'll be leaving tomorrow, but should you ever want to contact us, I'll leave you a quantum comm terminal. It allows near instant communication across nearly unlimited distance. The one I have prepared connects to my station, and my station only."

"Your station?"

"Yes, I am an admiral after all. Now I'll leave you and your..."

"Mare." Sarah smiled at that, and then shook her head.

"Your mare alone to... rest. Today has been interesting, and I am quite tired. Good night... uncle."

"Good night... niece." She smiled once more before standing and walking out of the door, closing it behind her gently. I walked back to the bed and laid down next to Luna, who was watching me intently. "What?"

"Well?"

"Well what?"

"How did she take it?"

"Like a true Luckes. I'm staying Luna, and she's leaving me away to contact them if I want to. I'll still be here, but if I want, or need, to talk to another human, then I can." She rolled over to snuggle down next to me, but winced as her left side brushed my chest. "Easy there, you got shot a couple of days ago, remember? Let's try this." I stripped to my underwear, holding the covers up for Luna. Once she was in I crawled in beside her. I rolled her on to her front and pulled her to my side. She rested he head on my shoulder and draped her left foreleg over my chest.

"Now this is much more comfortable."

The next morning thirty six humans walked through the castle gardens, down the red carpet to the landing pad, where three drop ships waited. They reached the pads and stopped marching, turning to line the route. There were two more to come, and they were currently stood by the former sergeant Luckes and the two princesses. The lieutenant stood still as Luna embraced him, earning him a scowl from the other man.

Admiral Luckes shook hooves with both ponies and stopped in front of him. There were a few whispered words, and then she threw her arms around his neck. They turned and walked towards the drop ships, and once there the admiral cast one last look across the castle, straightening up and saluting, which was promptly returned by the man at the other end of the garden.

The troops then steamed past her and on to the ships until she was the last one to climb on board. She took a seat near the window, tightening her belt as it started to rise. There was a set of dog tags hanging from her hand, and the troops nearest to her barely heard her whisper. "...goodbye, uncle."

I stood watching the drop ships take off, ascending to the large ship hovering in the sky. They docked with it, and five minutes later it headed to the upper atmosphere. And then it was gone, taking my only chance of returning to humanity. I felt a hoof placed on my shoulder, and turned to see Luna looking concerned at me. I took her hoof in my hand and squeezed gently, my next words making her smile. "I'm home."

We walked back into the castle, the doors closing behind us. Luna gasped in surprise as I picked her up, carrying her towards the infirmary for her check up. She was in there for about an hour, and I sat outside waiting for her. The door swung open, and I saw a blue leg stick out. It was longer than usual, and I raised my gaze to see Luna had transformed again. I looked to the side and winked at Twilight, who lit her horn.

With a flash of light the spell was neutralised, Luna returning to her true form. The shock was clear on her face. "But...I don't understand. Do you no longer wish for me to look like so?"

"Every now and then, sure, but right now I want you." She smiled and then looked up, mouth dropping open as she saw me. "Luna, what's wrong?"

"Was that a contained magic dispel, or an area one?" I didn't have a clue, so shrugged, letting my wings stre... wait a minute, wings?

"WHAT THE FUCK? TWILIGHT!"

"I DON'T KNOW!" I looked at my hands, finding them once more covered in beige fur, and then noticed that my clothes had been ripped away. I instantly placed my hands over my crotch. Twilight had her head tilted to the side. "I can see why you don't want to share him now!"

"FUCK IT, WE'RE GOING TO ZECORA'S, NOW!"

"I was certain of the remedy, instead it was temporary." The mare busied herself checking the amount of ingredients, and making sure she had the exact amounts. "How long it will now last we shall see, but for permanence I cannot guarantee."

"Zecora... stop." She did as asked, staring at me. "If you can't guarantee it, then don't bother. I'll find another solution." I got up and walked to the door, thanking the mare for trying. "Oh, and one last thing. Orange." I closed the door laughing as I heard what I assumed was cursing in her native tongue. It was early evening, the sun just going down. Well, if I was going to be stuck like this, might as well make use of it. Pity there were trees in the way.

Once I was on the edge of the Everfree Forest I let my wings spread, the feathers being ruffled by a slight breeze. I liked it here, but Luna lived in Canterlot, and that was quite a distance to fly... but then how would I know my limits? I crouched down slightly, tensing my legs and flapping my wings a few times. I then shot off, running along the path for about ten meters before I leapt in to the air, flapping my wings and gaining more height. I set my gaze on the mountain in the distance and headed towards it.

Luna jumped awake from the loud crash, and sat up in bed. Alec wasn't back yet, and as it was quite late, she assumed he was staying in Ponyville. Even though he wanted her to stay normal, she wanted to be like this, hoping it would ease his transition to staying. There was a flash of light from behind her curtain, following by a rolling boom. She gathered her blanket around her and walked over, slipping her hand between them. Throwing them open revealed a violent storm, and she hoped the where ever he was, he had decent shelter.

She was about to return to bed when another bolt of lightning lit the scene, and she saw something with wings get hit by it. She went to call for the guards to assist the pegasus that was out there, but another flash showed it still flying, smoking slightly. Once dark again she could make out a shadow, heading towards a balcony just down from hers.

She threw the blanket off and charged out her room, into an adjoining one. There was a shadow in the window frame, and the size of it could only be one person. She flicked on the light to reveal Alec, a hand over a scorched piece of fur on his chest. He opened his eyes and looked at her, before smiling and falling to the floor.

Luna was instantly by his side, peeling the hand away to find cracked black skin, the fur having been burnt away. She could see the pain in his face, and stroked his cheek with her hand. His eyes fluttered open, and he smiled once more. "Hi."

"What were you thinking, flying out there in that?"

"Had to get home as qui..." His face turned to a grimace as the pain flared. "Q-q-quickly as possible. Was m-missing you too much."

"You dolt, trying to kill yourself for me. There are easier ways, you know?" The smirk on her face let him know she was joking, so she pulled him to his feet and sat him on his bed. "I'll be right back." She went back to her room, grabbing a small bag, and locking her door as she left. Re-entering his room, she found him lying on the bed, eyes closed.

She opened the bag and searched around, finally pulling out a tube. She opened it and squeezed some of the contents in to her hands, and then ran them smoothly over the wound. He gasped in pain as it got to work, and then smiled. "What... was that?"

"'tis an old remedy from an age of fighting dragons. Suffice to say it heals burns, and also numbs the affected zone for a while. How long is proportional to the amount applied. You shouldn't feel anything for three days." She climbed up on the bed next to him, pressing against his other side.

His arm came up and held her close, a wing quickly following. Luna let a soft sigh escaped her lips as his hand ran through her mane, slowly lulling her back to sleep. Even the thunder rolling in through the open window wasn't disturbing her as her body relaxed and shut down.

I awoke to a small amount of pain in my arm, and tried to move it, but couldn't. Looking down I saw Luna still asleep against my chest, and on top of my arm of course. Just the content look on her face was enough to make me ignore the pain. I brought my other hand across and moved a few stray strands of her mane away from her face. I tilted my head back against the pillow and got ready to doze off, content to spent the morning listening to Luna's breathing.

And then I found myself looking at the floor for a few seconds before gravity took hold, pulling us down. I managed to flip around and get Luna to my chest, groaning as my back made contact. Luna had awoken as we fell, and looked around the room confused. "Oh, that was priceless! The look on your face when you saw the floor! I can tell life with you in the castle is going to be fun!"

I turned my head to the side, scowling at the moronic git standing at the door way. "Discord, you have five seconds to shut the the door and fuck off, or I am going to get pissed off."

"And what if I don't?"

"I'll tell Celestia." The door slammed shut and he disappeared in a flash of light. I looked back to mare lying as I felt fingers running through the fur on my chest. "Luna... what are you doing?"

"I was just thinking. We've had beds, lots of them, the shower, bath, my vanity... the cloud. But we've not had the floor yet." She slid herself further up my body, her head hanging just above mine. "It is my opinion for us to administer that change."

Author's Note

Do you know how hard it is to write for Zecora? Seriously, what the fuck were they thinking, making her speak in rhyme?

At least with 'Equestrian' I could just string some letters together. For the 'Eagle', just imagine the Falcon from Reach, but with small jet engines instead of rotors.

Chapter 25: You have got to be joking.....(s)

A/N: Yeah, here we go again. Sorry.

“Er, ma'am? Are you seeing what I'm seeing?” It had been three days since they left the planet, and Sarah looked to the main view screen, her mouth dropping open in shock.

“How... many?”

“The computers are having a hard time tracking, but estimated total fleet strength is two thousand ship, from nearly every nation.” The way the view screen lit up with individual IFF tags agreed to this, as it was nearly obscured by multi coloured lights. One ship turned from it's formation and headed towards her fleet. The view screen flickered and Fleet Admiral Luckes' face appeared.

“Sarah? Just where the hell have you been? I've got everyone out here demanding to know what you found!” Before she could respond, he disappeared in a white flash. She turned to her side and saw an office leaning against the bulkhead, his arms crossed and a smug look on his face.

“You're not part of my crew. Who are you?” He said nothing, just continued to stand there and click his fingers. “Fine then, MP's, escort that man to the brig.” His eyes finally locked with hers, and he clicked his fingers once more. Sarah then found herself standing in a desert. All she could see for miles was sand, and the ranking officers from each fleet.

The strange officer appeared in front of them all, and walked to the middle. As he did, he began to glow, slowly changing shape into a very strange creature. The Fleet Admiral shocked everyone by pulling out a pistol. “Dammit, a draconequus! Everybody get back!”

The creature stopped walking, turning to look at him with a smile. A quick flick of his claw and the pistol disappeared, being replaced with a creepy throne that he then sat upon. “Ah, that's better! Now then my little humans, let's get down to business. What do you want?”

A myriad of voices and languages rose up, Discord listening to them all intently. When he had heard enough, he stood and swept his arm over the crowd, silencing them. “So, you want to know what was found, and how you can use it to your advantage. Well tough. This area is under my protection, and nothing you can do will change this. Now away, all of you!”

With a quick wave of both arms, all but two humans were sent back to their ships, which were mysteriously heading back to their own territories. The two remaining humans looked at each other. “Sarah, did you find more of these things?”

“No, he was the only one I saw.”

“Good, it's bad enough trying to kill one, let alone more of them in one go.”

“Oh shut up, we were only defending ourselves.” He suddenly found his lips sealed together, his speech coming out as muffles. “Now then, what is your report going to be?”

“Sgt Luckes is alive and well, living in peace amongst the inhabitants of the planet where he landed. They have nothing to offer us, and deserve to be left alone. But I can't guarantee others will listen to me.”

“And what of his abilities?”

“What abilities?”

“That's what I thought. Goodbye, Admiral Luckes.” With a flash she found herself back on the bridge of her ship, her crew starring at her worriedly.

“Nav, take us home.”

I awoke to the sound of gentle birdsong, lying there dozing. It was then I realised that Luna wasn't in bed with me. I tried to get up, but couldn't move. Opening my eyes revealed darkness, and I felt fabric across them. “Luna? Why am I tied down?” I heard footsteps come closer to the bed, before she climbed across me, sitting on my chest.

“Why do you think? I am going to get my own back.” Her fingers slowly made their way from my chest to my back, running through my wings. I gave a shudder as she suddenly squeezed the feathers tight. “Oh, now I have your attention? Good! So, do you remember this?” Something cold and metallic was pressed against my chest, and I heard a lid pop off.

“And just where do you plan on using that?”

“Where do you think?” she started to slide down my body, stopping with her fingers playing with the top of my boxers. This was a game, and I was not going to let her win easily, so I emptied my mind of everything else except one thing. Steak. “And why are you grinning like that, hmm?”

“mmm, juicy.” She gave a small huff, understanding what I was doing. I felt my boxers be slowly pulled down, until a knock on the door bid her pause.

“Good morning, Mr Luckes. Your breakfast is ready.” There was the hotel bellboy... colt, delivering exactly what he said. The resort Rarity recommended just south of Baltimare was freaking awesome. Luna gave another huff, getting off and walking over to the door. “Ah, your majesty. Would you like me to bring it in?”

“No, I'll take it from here.” I heard the trolley wheeled in and placed by the table, and then a chair being pulled out.

“Luna? Do you think you could, you know, untie me so I can eat?”

“Not yet.” Bitch. I'll definitely get her for this one! I continued to lay there whilst Luna ate. It wasn't like I could do anything else. “There, that's better, now for desert.” Without warning she whipped my boxers off. “Now then, we have a problem here. I guess we'll have to rectify that!” Before I could ask what she meant, I felt her wings brush against me. That was it, I couldn't avoid thinking about it any more, and felt myself rising. “Better. And one more thing.”

I felt the cream spray all along and under, feeling Luna sit back to admire her work. “Really Lu? Why the fuck does that feel like a smiley face?”

“Because it is. Now hush and let me work.” I didn't have a chance to respond as dove straight in, running her tongue up the underside of my length. She continued in that way until she was satisfied I was 'clean', then placed her lips on the tip, kissing it lightly. I tried to move my arms to make her continue, but it seemed she had learned her knots quite well. I couldn't budge an inch. “Behave, and you will be rewarded. Don't, and you'll punished.” I felt something long and cold run across my chest.

“The fuck is that?”

“You're not the only one who borrowed something from Pinkie Pie, and she was more than happy to lend me this crop. So, are you going to behave?”

“Yes ma'am! But uh... could you... squeeze my wings again?” She gently brew across my shaft, making me gasp with pleasure, before going full out. I felt her hands slowly move to the base of my wings and then grip them, slowly increasing pressure. I couldn't help but let out a moan, so she squeezed harder. It was too much, and I could feel myself building under the surface. She pulled away and gave me another lick, and that was it, I climaxed. Luna gave a gasp of surprise before giggle a little.

“Well, I wasn't expecting that! I think I need a shower now!” I felt her get off me and heard the bathroom door open, water following soon after. “And I guess you can eat now.” I felt the ropes loosen, and lifted the blindfold off. We were going to need to get the bedding changed today... I rubbed my wrists before getting off the bed and grabbing my bacon sarnie. Thank fuck they had Griffons stay here.

I walked over to where the steam was billowing out, using the keen eyes from being part pegasi to see Luna in the shower. I put my arms out and rubbed her shoulders. “Have you started washing yet?”

“No, I have only rinsed.”

“Good.” I pushed her back under the flow, leaning one arm past her. She pressed against my chest, thinking I was going to help. Instead I grabbed the temperature control, jumping back as I turned it to cold, Luna letting out a scream as the icy stream hit her. I just continued to chuckle, even as she grabbed me with magic and shoved me under the flow.

The hotel manager paced back and forth outside the door, trying to figure out a way to politely ask her majesty to keep.....her noise down. Just the thought of that happening brought a small amount of heat to his cheeks. He was not present for their arrival, and had been told to be in for a surprise when he saw Princess Luna and her... consort. The way it was said made him think it was another mare, but it wasn't his place to judge. Summoning his courage, he knocked twice on the door. “Just a minute!”

So, it was a male consort. He heard hoof steps come to the door, which swung open. “Good morning sir, I am the manag... er?” His head slowly raised up, tracing the frame of the pony looking thing in the doorway, his mouth dropping open in proportion to the angle of his neck.

The strange creature had a towel around what he guess was it's waist, and smiled at him. “Yes, you're the manager. What else?”

“Forgive me, but what... are you?”

“Ah. I'm a human, and thanks to somebody's magic being out of control, I took on aspects of a pony.”

“I see. May I ask if this is the room with Princess Luna and her consort.” The creature gave an amused snort, waving the manager in with a wave of it's arm. He heard it mumble under it's breath.

“I wish people would stop saying that.” It, or rather he, sat down on the bed and motioned to the chair by the desk. The manager sat and looked around the room. “So, what can we do for you, mr...?”

“Ledger. I am here because we have received some complaints this morning from other guests on this floor. They were... uh... well, they were about the... ahem, noise, coming from this room.” His guests face slowly broke into a grin, and then he started bawling with laughter. “I am sorry, but I do have to ask... what were you doing?”

He stopped laughing and looked at the pony, amusement stamped on his short muzzle. “I'm in what I've read described as 'one of the most romantic getaways for ponykind', I'm male, and I'm here with Luna. What do you think the noise was?”

“That's what I thought. It is my understanding that you requested this room so as not to draw attention to yourselves, but... looking like that, I assumed you would anyway.”

“Alec, I'm ready. What time shall we leav... oh, hello.” They both turned their heads to see Luna standing in the bathroom doorway, wearing a bikini. “To what do we owe the pleasure of a guest.”

Ledger looked between the two, his mind not comprehending exactly what was going on here. He turned to the hooman thing on the bed. “Apologies, but when I was told that Luna was here was you, I was expecting Princess Luna, not... this.” He said, nonchalantly waving a hoof at her.

The one on the bed, Alec he assumed, brought his hand up to his face and sighed. “That is Princess Luna. Look at the cutie mark.” He did as asked, eyes going wide with fear, before he hit the deck in a low bow, cowering from the mare.

“I am so sorry your majesty... this is unexpected! I had no idea that you looked like that! I... I...”

“Calm yourself, my little pony. 'tis no error on your part, but that of your staff's for not informing you.”

“Oh they did, but not with the exact details, you majesty. I have explained to your cons...”

“STOP CALLING ME THAT!'

“Ahem. Your friend here that we have received some complaints about noise from this room.” Luna had moved to the bed, sitting next to Alec, and she buried her head in his shoulder as her cheeks turned pink, prompting a grin from her comfort zone. “As such, I would like to offer you one of our apartment suites, at no extra charge. The walls are quite thick, so you should be undisturbed. It looks like you are off out, so I shall have you bags moved for you. The room will be available upon you return.” With that, he bowed once more and trotted out the door, leaving them sat on the bed.

Luna looked up to see a toothy grin, and shoved him in the shoulder. “'Let's get a normal room, so we don't get special treatment.' Who said that again? Oh yeah, you!” She pushed him off the bed, keeping the towel in her grip. “Now get ready, the bar opens in three hours and I want to go swimming first!”

“Alec, where are you?” I could hear Luna in the water below, and knew she was going to do something worse to me... but after her last bit of revenge, it wouldn't be something bad. I moved away from the cliff, making sure the path was clear of any debris, tree roots and such. “Alec, if you don't come back right now, I'm going back to Canterlot, and taking all our bits with us!”

I ran forward and jumped off the cliff, keeping my wings pressed against my side, bringing my knees to my chest. I gained a few feet and the felt the pull of gravity. Time to let her know where I was. “CANNONBALL!!!!” I hit the water with a resounded crack, sending waves out in all directions. I crested the water and grinned at Luna, clashing with the glare she was giving me. “Something wrong?”

“Why do you always have to do things like that? I thought we were here for some peace and quiet.” I could see the tears started to gather, and she turned he back to me. Sighing, I swam over and wrapped my arm around her, pulling us to the shore. We walked out and laid down on the towels in the sun.

“I'm sorry Luna. It was just a way of blowing off some steam from last week.” Any idea formed in my head, but I knew I was going to regret it. “Luna, why... don't you decide what we'll do with the rest of our time here? That way we've both made half the decisions.”

“That is acceptable, but you must go through with them!” Yet again I was receiving a stern glare, so threw my hands up in defeat. This gave Luna the opportunity to pounce, pushing me back against the towel as she rested on my chest, moving a little to get comfortable, and I heard a brief mumble from her. “Much better... nice than the towel.”

A few hours later I was awoken by some crying going on further along the beach. I gently rolled Luna off me and sat up, looking in the direction of the noise. There were a few fillies and colts huddled together, and surrounding them were three ponies, two blue things with horns, and a griffon. “I said what are you doing on my beach, dweeb?” The shaking foals huddled closer. Bullying was one thing I couldn't stand, so I got up and made my way over.

“Hey, strange blue thing.”

“What, you've never seen a Minotaur before?” He turned around and looked up at me, mouth hanging open in shock. “What the buck are you?”

“What country are you in?”

“Equestria, what of it?”

“Which belongs to Luna and Celestia, right?”

“Get to the point!”

“Well, Luna is lying just down there. Would you like me to go tell her that you are bullying foals in her country?” I felt a hand placed on my shoulder, but it was too heavy to be Luna's. I turned round to see a bigger Minotaur, but he was still slightly shorter than me. “And how can I help you?”

“No one... tells my son off, but me!”

“Well go on then, do your job as a father.”

“He wasn't doing anything wrong. Now I suggest you leave before things get ugly.”

“Too late, you're already here.” I ducked down as his fist flew at my head, and shoulder barged him into the sand. “If you know what's good for you, you'll stay down.” The bullies were stood there chanting for a fight whilst the foals stared on, not sure what to do. The large Minotaur got to his hooves, breathing so heavily that I could see the air coming out of his nostrils.

“Treat me like a push over, and you'll get the once over!”

“Very nice, but you see, I know I can't fight you and win. But that doesn't mean I won't try.” This seemed to give him pause, and his eyes traced over my frame before locking eyes. He started to back down then.

“Uh, please accept my apologies, my son and his friends won't bother anypony else!” He started to usher them away, and his son tried to protest, but he just picked him up by the horns and walked away very quickly. I sat down in front of the foals, and used my wings to cover them from the sun.

“Hi there. So, what are you all doing out here without your parents?” I then heard commotion behind me, and looked over my shoulder to see a few mares and stallions, as well as some local guards. I closed my wings and backed away. “It's not what it looks like, honest!”

One of the unicorns stepped closer. “That's a strange mark. What does it mean?”

“Mark? What mark?”

“Your cutie mark, dumbass.”

“My cutie... mark?” I looked down, and sure enough, there was something on my flank. I pulled my shorts up the rest of the way, revealing a silver shield with gold dog tags on top of it. “That is a very good question. Sorry, but I need to speak with someone right now!” I tore off up the beach to where I had left Luna.

Author's Note

So, it turns out human can get cutie marks!

But just like the Double Rainbow, what does it mean? Who knows? Me? No, i haven't even decided yet!

The double rainbow is just a result of the different moisture density in the air, which is why one appears more faded than the other. Science bitches!! Now that teary eyed pussy has an answer, maybe he can get the fuck off Youtube!

Oh, and see? Discord can play nice!

Chapter 26

Luna went to snuggle closer to her comfort zone, but she opened her eyes to find herself alone. She sat up and looked around, confused as to where he had gone. She gathered the towels up and prepared to return to the hotel when a shout made her stop, turning to see him running round the side of a boulder. “LUNA, WHAT THE FUCK IS HAPPENING TO ME?”

She just blinked, nit understanding what he was talking about as he ran over and stopped, staring at her expectingly. She looked him over once and saw no difference, so she shrugged. He lifted his shorts' up his leg, revealing a mark on his flank. And then she understood why he was freaking out. “You have a cutie mark. That is... unexpected.”

“Well what the hell does it mean?”

“When did it appear?”

“About five minutes ago. I protected some kids from a few bullies, even standing against a massive fucking Minotaur!”

“Well, that explains the shield. Those tags... I do not know what they symbolise, but maybe we cou...”

“HALT, IN THE NAME OF THE PRINCESSES!” Luna turned towards the shout, seeing ten guards galloping over. They surrounded Alec before one of them noticed the alicorn, eyes going wide. “Your majesty, you apprehended the suspect. How?”

“Suspect? I think you are mistaken. This is my... co...” She saw the glare she was receiving, and reconsidered. “....partner. What crime does he stand accused of?”

“Attempting to abduct some foals. We found him hiding them with his wings.”

“You fucking what? You'd best watch what you say buttnugget, or I might not stay so polite. Especially something like that.”

“But the way we found you...”

“Have you asked them what happened?” The stallion worked his mouth a few times before trotting over and having a hushed conversation with the foals and parents, before returning, hanging his head.

“My apologies sir, it seems we were mistaken. Please enjoy the rest of your day.” With that he bowed and backed away, before leaving, the other ponies following suit, leaving just Luna and Alec alone.

“I think it's time to go to the bar. I need a fucking drink.”

I knocked another shot back whilst Luna was using the mares room. If there was one thing I couldn't stand, it was being accused of things I didn't do, or didn't intend to do. Part of me wanted to go after that stallion and whup his ass, but that would upset Luna, which is the only reason I hadn't left yet. I motioned for the bartender over for another round, and told him to leave the bottle. I had two more shots before my glass was pulled away from in a field of blue. I just shrugged and put the bottle to my mouth, which was taken in the same way. I slowly span in my seat, seeing both the bottle and glass in Luna's hands, who was once more glaring at me. “Alec, what's wrong?”

“....you wouldn'ts undershtand, jusht leave its.”

“Alec, are you drunk?”

“...maybe, dunno. There a threes of yous, so probablys.” I could just make out her moving closer, and then felt myself pulled to my feet and led out of the bar. The music went muffled as the door closed behind us, Luna grabbing my hand and guiding me down the street. “Where we goings?”

“I left you for five minutes! We are going back to the hotel.”

“Starting that already?” I suddenly felt an impact on my cheek. All I did was squeeze her ass.

“Where you are going to sleep this off!” And then I remembered what usually happened when I had seven pints of cider and then pounded down quarter a bottle of vodka. I pulled away from Luna and ran in to an alley. Yep, there were the carrots. “Alec... are you okay? Hey, don't touch me!”

“And why not, you cute little thing?” I recognised that voice, it was the Minotaur from earlier. And he was touching my mare. I lifted up my head and wiped my muzzle, then walked backed out into the street. He was there with five others, all smaller than me.

“Leave. Her. Alone.” He looked at me out of the corner of his eye.

“Well, look who it is! Boys, he's yours!” One of them ran at me too fast, so I put a wing in front of myself for protection. To both of our surprise, the impact reflected back at him and he went flying. I lowered my wing and tilted my head, seeing the Minotaur embedded in a brick wall. The other three jumped at me then, all eager to return the favour, but I wasn't having any of it.

“ENOUGH!!!”

The pressure from my shout forced them back, making them rethink their strategy. I grabbed Luna's wrist and placed her behind me, slowly walking her back towards the alley. If I could contain them, I might be able to deal with them. Unfortunately, I was drunk off my ass and ended tripping off my own feet. As I sat there trying to get my bearings, the Minotaurs surrounded me, and the leader picked my up by the scruff of my jacket, bring my face close to his. “When somepony tries to block, show them that you rock!”

I shook my head and looked him the eyes. “Yous jusht made a bigs mishtake.”

“Oh yeah, and how's that punk?” I didn't answer. I instead introduced him to the Glasgow Kiss. I hit the floor with a thud as he staggered back against the wall, hands trying to ease the pain in his head. I pushed myself to my feet and turned to the last three.

“So... whish one of you shitsabgs is nexsht?” They looked at each other and nodded. I tensed up ready for the fight, but they just backed out of the alley and left. I turned back to the other one and crouched as best as I could, pulling his hands away from his face. “Leaves town. Tomorrows. Understand?”

He nodded at me, and I looked around, seeing Luna standing in the corner. I got up and walked over, taking her hand and leading her back into the street. She suddenly appeared in front of me, causing us to stop. “We need to get you to a hospital. That looks bad.” She reached up and wiped what I thought was sweat off my forehead, but her hand came away red. I smiled down at her before I felt myself falling, and then my vision went dark.

Luna trotted around her room, frustrated that her sister had actually sent her there for getting in the way. She had taken Alec to the local medical centre, but when he didn't awaken the next day sent for a chariot to bring them home. A now a week later he was still in the infirmary. She had tried to infuse him with her magic, but his body refused it. Each time he came around the pain made him black out again.

She stopped when the door opened, drawing her attention to Celestia entering her room. She came over with a smile on her face. “He is awake, and he would like to see you, but... Luna!” She ran out of the room, attempting to catch her tear away sister. They both slowed just outside the infirmary doors. “Luna, he is not very... there, at the moment.”

“What do you mean?” Before Celestia could answer, a doctor came out, and through the open door came the sound of....

“Show me the way to go home! I'm tired and I want to go to bed! I had a little drink about an hour ago, and it's gone straight to my heeeaaaaddd!”

“Sir, could you please stay still.”

“Oh, another magic talking pony thing! Get over here, I'm gonna ride you!” Luna was shocked. It was like he was still drunk, but the few times she saw him coherent, he was certainly lucid. “Hey, why can't I move?”

“Because we had to get Recruit Warper to pin you down, you are not behaving!”

“Well where's the fun in... wait a minute! I've got wings!”

“Yes, you have wings sir.”

“And I'm furry! Wait, I've got an idea!” There was the sound of things being shifted in the room, and the princesses entered to see the doctor covering his eyes with a hoof, Recruit Warper trying not to laugh, and on the bed was Alec. He had covered himself with his wings and tied a sheet around his neck, making a cape. There was a pillow with some holes bitten out of it on his head. Luna took a few steps closer.

“Alec, what... are you doing?”

He gave a soft growl before speaking. “I am not Alec right now. I am... the god damn batpony!” He tried to stand up, but could only manage to sit up, with his wings spread wide, arms resting on his hips, a serious expression on his face.

“Celestia, could you explain what the buck is going on?”

“I'll try. Basically we went through his supplies from the ship to see if anything could help him, and we found a medical kit. I got Twilight to translate the writing, and we managed to get some painkillers for him. This is the result.”

“Come on, the batpony! You guys must know it? No? Bloody ponies. Hey, she's a pretty one, don't you think, Warpy?”

“For the fiftieth time, it's Warper. And who are you talking about?”

“Bluey over there! Come on, you'd have to be into stallions in you don't agree she's got a nice flank!” The guard shot up rigid, eyes staring at the wall, whilst Luna's mouth made a break for the floor. “Oh, that is awesome. Soft, hard. Soft, hard. Soft, hard.” They looked to the bed to see him flexing his wings. They were going from being feathers to an almost solid state. Luna trotted over and ran her hoof over them. “Hey, that feels good! Keep going!”

She withdrew from the bedside and returned to her sister. “What was the item you gave him?”

“I believe it was something called 'morphine'.”

“And how much did you give him?”

“I do not know, but clearly it was too much.”

“Hey sunbutt! Wanna see the moon?” Both mares blushed heavily as he rolled over and presented his flank to them, which he then covered half with using the sheet. “And now it's a half moon! Hey, hey, hey... here's what... we should do! Let's go find Armour... and shave a comedy cock into him! And then we can also get Twilgi... huh, I'm feeling tireph.” His face hit the pillow, muffling his snores.

Warper finally relaxed, letting his magic cut out. He took a deep breath, bowed, and left the room. There was a steady stream of mumbles as he walked away. “Luna, I trust that you are going to remain here?”

“I think that I shall, lest he needs controlling once he awakens.”

I awoke to a really bad pounding in my head, and screwed my eyes shut. Even the total darkness was too bright. I chanced a peak, but squinted at the light coming in through the window. Without thinking I raised my arm and waved it at the curtains, which then closed over. I looked over at the couch to see Luna snuggled down, a blanket placed over her. I was going to go over, but my body decided it need to go. I just thought about it and blinked, finding myself standing in front of a toilet.

I just shrugged and carried out my business. I then saw the closed door, and wondered how I got through it. I mean, first the curtains shut on their own, and then I'm magically in the bathroom? Something wasn't right. I was snapped out of my thoughts as a voice came through the door. “Alec, are you in there?”

“Yes Luna, I'm...” Another blink, and I was now on the other side, back in the hospital room. “...right behind you?” She whipped round and stared at me in shock, which was a justified reaction.

“How... did you do that?”

“Do what?”

“That!” She waved her hoof to the door, and then at me. I just shrugged at her, not knowing what the fuck she was going on about. “I am going to test this. Clear your mind and think of nothing but Celestia.” I did as asked, and closed my eyes. When I opened them again, I was in yet another room. And in the corner was the sun princess herself, head tilted as she stared at me.

“Well, good morning Alec. How are you feeling?”

“uh, I'm good, just got a pounding headache.”

“Oh. Well, we would give you some medicine, but after last time...”

“Why, what did I do?”

“Showed my sister and I your flank, and claimed to be the 'batpony'. It was rather humorous how you were wearing the pillow over your head.”

“What the hell did you give me?”

“Morphine.”

“...oh. Yeah, that'd about do it. Anyway... I'd best get back to Luna.” I kept my eyes open this time as I thought of her, and saw a flash that made me wince. Once I had my vision back, Luna was standing before me. “Hey, you'd never guess what. I can teleport”

“As I thought. I do not understand what brought this about, so perhaps we should thi... hey!”

“Hmm? Oh, sorry.” I lowered my arm, thus returning Luna to the floor. “Yeah... turns out I can move things with my mind as well! I wonder...” I grinned at Luna, who started to back away nervously.

“Wonder about whaaaahhh! A-a-alec!!!” I dropped the thoughts from my head. “W-w-why did y-y-you stop?” She was shaking lightly, rear legs crossed, and her cheeks tinted nice and pink. I could see in her eyes that she wanted more and for me to stop at the same time, so I shrugged and focused again, watching as she tried to stay standing.

After ten minutes of teasing, I let her go get... 'cleaned up' in the bathroom, which left me to let my mind wander. I could teleport, I could move things. What else could I do? I needed to ask someone about this, so I tapped on the bathroom door. “Luna? I need to go out for a bit. Is that okay with you?”

I heard her voice over the running water. “Go out? Where? And are you feeling well enough to travel?”

“Yeah, I'm fine. I'm going to see Twilight.”

“Okay, have fun!” I smiled and was about to leave the room, when I considered another way of travel. I closed my eyes and focused on Twilight, waiting to appear in the library. After a few moments nothing happened. Oh well, I've still got wings. I'll just fly down. I went to the window and opened it, climbing up to sit on the sill. I could See Ponyville in the distance, and briefly wondered why I couldn't teleport that far.

And then I found myself high up in the air, and had to whip my wings out to stop falling. I hovered for a moment and turned around, seeing Canterlot a couple of miles behind me. So, I could teleport long distances, but not that far. So what if I...? I gave it a go, focusing on Ponyville town square, and placing as 'terminus' for the teleport, before closing my eyes and concentrating really hard.

I saw the flash from behind my eyelids and felt solid ground beneath my feet. I opened my eyes to see a bunch of shocked ponies staring at me, so I waved to them. They all smiled and then carried on with their tasks. Clearly living here made them use to all kinds of strange things happening. I made my way through town, greeting those that stopped to talk to me. I arrived at the library to find it locked, so I tapped on the door, hearing hoofsteps come closer. It swung open and I looked down to say hello to Twi, but she wasn't there.

I dropped my gaze lower and saw a white blur disappear, followed by a hushed conversation and then footsteps coming. Spike peered round cautiously before smiling and shaking his head. “Morning dude, sorry about that. Sweetie Belle hasn't seen you like this before and it creeped her out a little, come in.”

I followed him in and saw the filly shaking in the corner, so I sat in the middle of the floor. Spike walked over and whispered in her ear, her eyes going wide with surprise, before she smiled and galloped over, throwing her forehooves around my neck. I wrapped my arms around her and returned. the gesture. “And good morning to you too Sweetie Belle. Spike, is Twilight around? I got a few things to ask her.”

“Nah, she didn't get back form Pinkie's party last night. It was Mac's birthday, and they went to Sugarcube Corner to celebrate. We had to leave around nine o'clock, though I don't know why. I guess you could try there?”

“Cheers bud, I’ll catch you later. Sweetie Belle, do you want a lift home?” She shook her head. “To Rarity's then?” I got a nod that time. “Okay, hold on.” With a flash we moved the Carousel Boutique, appearing in front of a screaming Rarity, causing Sweetie Belle to giggle. I just grinned at the mare and teleported out of there, arriving in the bakery. I got more shocked gasps from the customers, but it turned to smiles as I was assailed by the twin terrors of Sugarcube Corner. Pound and Pumpkin Cake.

I glanced up to see Cup Cake smiling down at me, but a small pale forehoof drew my attention back to the foals, who were starting at me expectantly. They soon started giggling as I ran my fingers over them, working out where their ticklish spots were a while ago. “Morning Mrs Cake. Is Twilight here still?”

“Oh come now deary, call me Cup. And no, she left with that stallion of hers last night. I'm not sure where they went from there.”

“Okay, I'll try the farm then.” This teleporting was getting easier. I didn't even have to think it about properly, arriving at my destination. I was a little short, standing below the Crusader's club house, and I was about to carry on when Applebloom's voice drifted down, so I snuck up the ramp and peeked my head in the window. Inside were the filly, Scootaloo, Rumble and Pipsqueak. And then I saw the board game.

“Rumble, Ah dare you to kiss Scootaloo!” I shook my head at their antics, slowly lifting the window up as the colt nervously leaned forward, whilst Scootaloo was almost jumping forward. I let them get close and begin, before I made my presence known.

“You know...” They fell away from each other in shock, Applebloom and Pip whipping round to stare at me. “...after the last time with that game, you'd think you guys would've learnt you lesson. Anyway, can one of you tell me where Twilight might be?”

“Ah think they're in t' barn, but they may've moved since then.”

“Thanks Applebloom. And Rumble, no tongues next time.” I walked away laughing as I heard sputtering behind me, setting my sights on the big red building on the other side of the farm.

Author's Note

.........is he now able to use magic? Or is he becoming a Jedi?

And where did they get that game from, if he confiscated it last time?

Find out....whenever I get over this little block of mine, and can actually be arsed to write. And stop shooting things.

Yes, I'm being serious. My room is littered with BB's, but I love my new P90!

Chapter 27

Twilight groggily came awake as a breeze made her shiver, and she used her magic to pull the blankets back up. She then felt the rhythmic movement of the pony she was laying on, his breaths brushing warmly past her ears. She blink a couple of times, snuggling closer to Mac's chest. His forelegs squeezed her tighter, and she started to giggle as he nibble on her ear. This brought her out of her doze, rolling over so that their chest were pressing against each other, and she leaned closer for a passionate kiss. Her wings slowly started to unfurl, but snapped open as a voice to their side hit their ears. “Aww, don't you make such a cute couple?”

She fell to the floor in shock, whipping her head round to see Alec lying on the deck chair next to them, which is where she had started when they got back last night. There was something... off about him today, but she couldn't quite put her hoof on it. There was the cheeky grin, the impossibly happy eyes, and he just seemed so... relaxed. And he had just interrupted her and Mac. She gritted her teeth before replying “Good morning, Alec. What can we help you with today?”

“Oh, not a lot really. Just... can you explain this?” The was a flash of light and he disappear. She stared at the chair confused, before there was a flash from behind her caused her to turn, seeing him stood behind her with a giggling Sweetie Belle in his arms. He put her down and flashed away again, this time returning with Applebloom and Scootaloo, who blinked in confusion. “So yeah, I can teleport and move things with my mind. Care to explain?”

She rubbed her hoof thinking things through whilst Mac tried to explain to the fillies why they were on the roof of the barn. And then it clicked. “I... think you are using magic. But without a horn, I can't understand how.”

He just gave a shrug, before wiggling his fingers, causing the fillies to giggle as her tickled them with magic. “Maybe it's a side effect from the transformation mixed with the magic Luna infused with me. Wonder what else I can do? Hey, do you think I could teleport others?”

“It's not impossible, why?”

“I saw somepony napping in the trees on the way over, and I can see a small pond over there, so...” He closed his eyes in concentration, and a swirling orange portal appeared above the water. He turned the other way a focused on the trees, where there was a blue flash. And then out of the orange portal came a blue pegasus mare with a rainbow mane and tail. She looked around once before gravity took over, resulting in a grumpy mare making her way to the shore, standing there and shaking to get the excess water from her fur.

Rainbow Dash pushed her mane out of her eyes and glared at the sound of laughing coming from the top of the barn, preparing to take off before she noticed the blue glow under her. It started as a small hole between her fore hooves, and she could make out water inside it. It suddenly widened and she found herself falling into the water once more. Not bothering to shake off the water, she launched herself towards the barn, not having enough time to stop before another blue glow appeared in front of her. She then found herself flying the wrong direction, towards the farmhouse instead of the barn, so she turned around and tried again.

Back on the balcony, Twilight was having a hard time not laughing, the exact opposite as Mac and the fillies as Rainbow tried to get to them. With each wave of his hands, Alec was summoning those portals and turning Dash around. She was about to tell him to stop when he changed tactics, leaving Dash going left and right, up and down, and pretty much every direction. He waved his hand at the barn roof and an orange portal appeared on it, Dash coming through seconds later.

She stopped and hovered, looking around at her new location, before glaring at Alec and trying to fly at him. He summoned a blue one, and she ended up coming back through the roof. After a few attempts, she gave up and just hovered there, so Alec waved his hand and everything went back to normal... ish. “Morning Skittles, enjoy your swim?”

“How the hay did you do that, huh? I though pegasi couldn't do magic?”

“Not quite sure, that's why I came to see Princess Egghead and...”

“Hey!”

“...then I started thinking with portals!”

“I enjoy doing that!”

“Pinkie! Where the fuck did you come from? You almost gave me a freaking heart attack!” The bubbly mare just skipped around the roof in a circle, a big grin on her face.

“I don't know, but when I find the fifth wall, I'll let you know.” She bounced over to the edge and jumped off. They all ran to the edge to check on her... but she was gone. Twilight could almost visualise the steam coming out of Alec's ears as he tried to understand what happened, and stepped in.

“Just... ignore her, it's a Pinkie thing. I thought you'd be used to it by now. So, can you do any other magic?”

“I don't know. How can I find out?”

“Well, I have a few spell books back at the library, but I...” she cast a glance to Mac, who smiled and nodded at her. “...okay. To the library then.” She trotted over and gave Mac a kiss, earning a 'aww' from the fillies, and then stood next to Alec. “Are you ready?” He gave a nod and they disappeared in a flash.

It couldn't be that simple. The book I was holding, whilst meant for foals, was quite revealing. It's just how the spells worked. I continued reading right through to the end, where there was a complete list of all the spells and their variants listed. I picked the easiest one and got ready. “I can't believe I'm actually going to try this...” I focused on the unlit candle in front of me. “...Yol.” A burst of flames appeared and lit the candle....and the table it was resting on. I panicked and flipped to the list, looking for another spell. I managed to find the one I was after. “Liss.”

The flames went out, being replaced with a lump of ice. I let out the breath I didn't realise I was holding, working out how I was going to explain this one. “Alec, did you just set my library on fire? Because that would be bad, you know, being made of wood and containing paper.” I grinned sheepishly to the mare standing in the doorway.

“Yeah... uh, maybe. Hey Twi, how long have these spells been around?”

“Those ones? For about three thousand years, that's why it's a foals book. Why do you ask?”

“I'm... not sure. Some I don't recognise, but some... they're exactly the same as special powers from a game back in my time. Is there anyway you can contact Discord?”

“And why the hay would I want to do that?”

“He may have travelled to my world. I need to know!” She nodded to me and trotted over to the desk, getting a piece of parchment out and jotting down some words on it.

“Spike, can you send this to Celestia for me?” The little dragon came running in and blew his flames on the letter, and we watched as it drifted away as ash. I continued to look over the books whilst waiting for a reply. I was about halfway through the next stage when a flash inside drew my attention, seeing the draconequus smiling at me.

“Discord.”

“Hello my wonderful friend, any encounters with the floor again? Wait, what is that you're reading... oh, I suppose you want an explanation?” Well, that proved that theory, Luna was right.

“How many times did you travel to my world?”

“Once, around that time. I may have had... some influence on that game, but just those bits. I should've stayed there, but never mind.”

“So... there was nothing you could've done to prevent... what ever happened?”

“No, there was not. If your entire would knew of me, then yes I could've intervened, but only a few did. I... am sorry, but that is how things are. Besides, what would you have become if it didn't happen?”

That was a good question, and I didn't have an answer. There were a couple of things that he might know the answer to though. “Discord, do you know why I can use magic?”

“Yes.”

“...and?”

“...and that is something you're going to have to find out in your own time. Sorry, but I've been asked to keep quiet in that.”

“Asked to keep quiet?” By who?” He started looking around the room, trying to find something to steer the conversation in another direction, but I had already guessed who. “It was Celestia, wasn't it?”

“No. Maybe. Yes, it was her! Oh, I wasn't supposed to admit that. That means...”

“DISCORD!!! YOU BROKE A PINKIE PROMISE!!” He jumped up and ran towards the door, before whipping around and running out the back. I heard his voice in my head as the door swung open revealing an angry Pinkie Pie. 'I have left a present for you upstairs. I feel that you should have it. Please don't tell her which way I went!' “Alec, where is he!”

“Sorry Pinks, but you missed him. I guess he knew he did wrong, and is probably back at the castle by now. I'll let him know you're looking for him.” The mare narrowed her eyes at me, then grinned and left the library. I made my way upstairs and entered Twilight's study, seeing a medium sized black box on the desk, and a wooden crate on the floor.

The box was marked 'FN Herstal', which meant Discord had a gun from my time as a souvenir or something. The box was about seventy centimetres long, so it wasn't a rifle. It was too big to be a pistol, so I flipped the catches open, lifting the lid slowly. I couldn't believe it, so I picked the gun up, looking it over, and there on the side was it's marking stamp. The serial number was no longer important, but it's name. I now had a P-ninety.

Flipping open the crate revealed magazine upon magazine already loaded. I put the gun back down and closed both the box and crate, picking them up. My old combat harness wouldn't fit me now, and I could only just get my finger to the trigger as it was. Heh, Thunderlane's going to be annoyed with me for making his mare scream three times in a row instead of him. I smiled to myself and let the magic flow, moving from the library to the boutique.

“ALEC! Will you stop doing that!” I poked my tongue out Rarity, amused at the way her mane wasn't perfectly curled any more, and the pout she was giving me. “Honestly, can't you use the door like a normal pony?”

“I'm not a pony Rarity. Anyway, if you do something for me, then I promise not to do this again. Hell, I'll even Pinkie Promise.”

“Very well, what do you need?”

“PRINCESS CELESTIA!” She snapped her head up from the document towards the guard galloping into the throne room. One would only hurry like that in the most dire of circumstances. He came close and bowed to the ground. “I bring grave news from Manehatten.”

“Rise, and deliver the news.” The stallion got to his hooves and looked around nervously. “Take a moment to calm down, and steady yourself.” He took a deep breath before locking his eyes with her.

“Your majesty, they've struck again! They have taken over the local council offices of Manehatten!”

“Who are we talking about here?”

“The group of stallions that wish to overthrow your rule, and place stallions as the ones in charge!”

“Then round them up and arrest them. If they cannot stand for what they believe in peacefully, they certainly will not do it using violence!”

“But... this time is different your majesty. They have already... killed several guards and are threatening to kill more.” A flash drew her attention to the doorway, where Alec was standing, a duffel back over his shoulder and two crates in his arms. She smiled as a plan formed in her mind.

“Alec, could you come over here please?” His heard turned to look at her and he shrugged, dumping his gear and walking over.

“What's up?”

“It seems we have a situation that may benefit from your... unique skills.”

I stepped off the train into the streets of Manehatten, watching as the ponies backed away. One of the guards nervously approached. It was understandable. I mean, just imagine that a creature the likes of what you've never even imagined had appeared and it was going to help you. How would you feel having to talk to it? I just let it slide, I had a job to do here. “So, which way?”

The guard swallowed and looked me over. “T-t-this way, sir.” He turned and started to trot off, so I followed. The crowds parted before us, leaving the path clear. It didn't take long for us to reach a cordoned off area, with spotlights shining up at a seven story building. “They're in there, but we can't breach any further than the fifth floor. They have no qualms about killing, but we... never thought we would have to. I u-u-understand that's why you a-a-are here, sir.”

“Fifth floor. I take it I can't just fly up?”

“No, they are attacking anypony that tries. We have the fourth floor secured, but there is only one set of stairs that are accessible. All the others are sealed off.”

“Then let's get in there.” He nodded and we entered the building, making our way up the stairs. We came out into a room where a temporary command post had been set up, and I was shown to a table where they had the schematics of the building. I looked over them for ten minutes, not finding any access ways to use. I went to the bottom of the stairs and started to walk up them, but had to retreat as multiple bolts of lightning were sent out. I turned back to the guard who had guided me. “Have any of you tried to teleport inside?”

“A few of us have sir, but... none have come back.” That left that option closed. But maybe...

“What about the roof?”

“We can't fly high enough.”

“No, I mean teleporting up there?”

“Oh. Uh... none of us have tried.” He turned to a unicorn guard and instructed him to do so. He disappeared in a flash and returned moments later, informing us that the coast was clear.

“Good. I need you to get me enough rope to reach the fifth floor from the roof, make sure it's black, and turn the lights out. Then meet me on the roof. Understand?”

“Yes sir!” With that I closed my eyes, and then felt a cool breeze was across my face. I looked over the edge just as the spotlights went dark. A flash from behind me signalled the arrival of a guard, who handed me a large coil of rope.

“Thanks. Now get back down there and prepare for casualties.” He saluted and teleported away as I secured the rope to a large pipe, and then threw it off the edge. I had no idea where I got the climbing gear from, but it was useful right now. I hooked on to the rope and leaned over the edge, seeing how far it was. The rope stopped right at the fifth floor window. I climbed over the railing and began my slow descent, stopping at the sixth floor.

I managed to turn upside down and lower myself a little more, peeking in. I couldn't see anything, so chose to let my magic come into play. “Las Yah Nir.” Almost immediately my vision lit up with pink in the vague shape of ponies. There were about twenty of them standing, with another ten or so on the floor. There was a pile of dimmer pink in one corner, much too large to be a single pony.

I wish I had brought my flashbangs, so I had to go with plan B. I swung back up the right way and flapped my wings a little to hover, pulling the rope back up. I slid it through my belay right to the very end. I gripped the sixth floor window sill with my left hand, my right hand gripping my gun, and my legs bracing against the wall. I pulled my wings back in and jumped back, holding a knife in my left hand as I swung towards the window.

I fired three times to break through, and once inside cut the rope, rolling to a stop on the floor. There was a unicorn stallion standing above me, his horn glowing. I didn't give him a chance to use his magic as I fired a burst at his chest, watching as he fell to the floor. I got to my feet and took out the other three targets in the room. I looked 'through' the walls to see the other ponies had heard the noise, and some were coming to investigate.

I made my way to the nearest door and opened it, clearing the hall. A door further down opened and a light came out. I fired another burst as it swung towards me and the light went out, the caster's body now useless. There were two more in that room, but there were seven in the room opposite, all gathered around the door. If I took those two out, the others would get me, and vice versa. I needed a new tactic. I had my pistol with me, so started formulating my plan as the door at the far end opened, and the other ponies came out, so I just held the trigger in place and let rip until the magazine was dry, ducking back into the room as their spells came towards me.

I reloaded and stuck my head out of the door, seeing one dim pink shape on the floor, moving away. I switched my SMG to my left hand and brought out my pistol. Crossing my arms, I ran down the hallway, and fired as I passed the doors. Once I was clear I turned around, seeing three remaining on my left and none to the right. I eased my way back along and knocked on the door. “Give up, you aren't getting out of this.”

Three almost laser thin beams shot through the door, causing me to stop. I saw flashes through the holes and looked back to where I entered. Now however, all ponies in that room were huddled together. This was going to make things harder. I crept down an adjoining corridor that ran perpendicular to the other one, moving along a different wall. I aimed my P-ninety through it and upwards, then emptied the reaming rounds. Quickly reloading, I braced myself by the door. "Listen up! If you don't want to die, then you'll stay on the floor! Anything above sitting height will be treated as a hostile!”

I gave them thirty seconds and then kicked the door open, swinging into the room. The thirteen alive ponies were all sitting on the floor, heads hanging. I didn't know which ones were the targets, so I kept my gun trained on them all. “Guards, move up! Floor Secure!” A horn flashed before I could react and an explosion went off behind me, so powerful that I was blown out of the window. I flared my wings to slow my movements, turning to look back up at the building, and watched as the ponies headed to the ground as well. I couldn't save them and myself, so I made my choice.

I waved my arm and summoned multiple portals, making sure that the other ends were somewhere soft. And then came what felt like a bone shattering impact as I hit the floor...

Author's Note

...........ow.

Well that went swimmingly! Is this the end of our human pony thing? Find out on more

...yeah, guess what I'm watching! And I really do have a P90, it's just a BB gun. Still, half a mag on full auto vs the Pringles can I was shooting...the top half fell off!

Chapter 28: Time to get horny!(s)

Luna had just entered the dining hall when she saw a flurry of activity. She trotted over to the crowd, who slowly parted for her, allowing her to see the pile on the floor. There was a pool of red surrounding a large sandy coloured body... “NO!” Several guards grabbed a hold of her and pulled her away, but still she moved closer. Another five came over and added to the group, finally overcoming her strength and pushing her out of the dining room, slamming the doors in her face. She tried to teleport past them, but her magic didn't allow her.

Out of the three who could prevent that, only one was in the castle, and she was now stood next to Luna, covering her with a wing. “I am sorry you had to see that. I wanted to move him to the infirmary, but the doctors insisted on getting to work right way.”

“Is he...”

“He lives Luna, but it was very close. There maybe some nerve damage, and it will be a small miracle if he ever flies again.”

“What do you mean, sister?” Before Celestia could reply the doors swung open, and a trolley was wheeled out. The white sheets were already soaked red, and one of his wings was bent at an unnatural angle. Luna tried to move but Celestia's wing held her firm.

“Let them work, Luna. That is all we can do for now.” She nodded and cast her gaze to the floor, before smiling to herself. She couldn't get into the dining room, but what about the infirmary? Celestia sighed as there was a flash from beside her, turning to find Luna gone. “Why can't she ever listen?”

For two days Luna watched as the doctors worked around the clock, not sleeping nor eating. She didn't have to, being an alicorn, but the signs that she was worried were clear to everypony, and on the third day her body finally won, and they set her down to sleep on the couch in the room. She would want to be near when he awakened, and he would need her just as much.

On the third morning she awoke to the sound of strained breaths, looking over to the bed where Alec was trying to sit up. His hand gripped the safety rail and he managed an upright position, and she could see the pain in his face. She trotted over as he opened his eyes, managing a smile when he saw her. “Hey. Miss me?”

“Lots. How... are you feeling?”

“Luna... I can't feel my legs. What happened?”

“You... saved the ponies at the cost of your own life. You hit the floor on your back, and there was severe nerve damage. One of your wings...is broken beyond repair. You should feel your legs with time. But you may never fly again.” He sat there and absorbed this, not saying a word. Luna placed a hoof over his hand. “Alec, is there anything you need?”

“Yeah... my gun.”

“Why would you want that?”

“I'd rather be dead than a vegetable.” She drew back her hoof and slapped him full force. The impact knocked him back to a lying position, and he couldn't get back up.

“Do not be so ridiculous! It is just your wing! You can still move like you used to! Now, what can I get you that isn't stupid?”

“Nothing.” Luna sighed, climbing onto the bed next to him, and pushing her way between his arms.

“Well, I shall be right here if you change your mind.”

Three months of therapy and I was only just walking unaided. The doctors were surprised that the nerve damage in my wing was healing slowly, saying that it was a miracle. What they didn't know was that I was using small amounts of magic to heal it, and exercising them daily. I had just entered my room and reached around to take the wing brace off when my hand was blocked. I looked to the bed to see Luna lying on it, her horn glowing. “Pray tell, for what reason were you going to remove that item?”

“...going for a shower, it gets in the way.”

“You don't lie very well, you know? Why don't you tell me what you are doing?”

“Drop the magic and I'll show you.” Her horn stopped glowing so I took the brace off, dropping it to the floor. I slowly let my left wing unfurl, before closing my eyes and letting the right one out even slower.

“Alec... stop! You are in pain!” I ignored her, pushing my wings to their full spread. Once there I almost fell to the floor, but instead found myself floating towards my bed, settled down next to Luna. “Does it not hurt?”

“A little, it's more of a dull throb. I've had worse.” Her horn glowed once more, and before I could ask some wing oils appeared next to the bed. Luna got up and walked to the foot of the bed, where a glow started to gather, and she slowly transformed. “Luna, what are you doing?”

“It will be easier to do this in this form, now lie still.” I did as asked, and she climbed across my lap, slowly massaging some oil into my left wing. Once I was sufficiently relaxed she shifted to the other side. I felt her hands in position to start. “Alec, this may hurt. Do you want me to stop?” I shook my head, ready for anything.

At first I felt nothing but searing pain, but that slowly gave way to numbness as Luna ran her fingers through my wing. Oddly the less painful part was right at the base, where the nerve damage was. I could tell that they were healing well by the other reaction taking place with my body. I lifted my arms up and stroked Luna's wings, listening to her give out a soft gasp of surprise. “Alec, do you think we should be doing that?”

“You asked if there was anything I needed. Right now, I need you.” I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her close, kissing her passionately, which she returned with twice as much force. I felt her hand slide down my trousers and grip me tightly, causing me to let out a groan as I moved one of my mine between her legs, causing her to gasp in pleasure.

She buried her head into my shoulder as my fingers teased her, rubbing around her edges. Without warning I inserted them, causing Luna to grip me tighter with her other arm, loud moans coming from her mouth. Once we were both sufficiently aroused, her horn glowed and my trousers and boxers were slowly pulled down my legs.

She moved down my body a little, using magic to guide me into position. I shuddered as I felt myself push past her lips, and she slowly lowered herself all the way down, before moving back up and repeating. I could feel her clamping tight, and let out a hiss of pain as she gripped my wings. “I'm sorry, perhaps we should stop?”

“No... it's good pain, it lets me know that they still work.” With that she continued, getting a little faster, but not by much. This was different from before, she was taking it slow, as if it was her first time, and it was much nicer. I returned the gesture and gripped her wings causing her to scream with pleasure, then there was a knock on the door.

“Your majesty, is everything all right in there?”

“Yes, now return to your station!”

“At once, your majesty!” I smirked up at her before squeezing her wings again, and this time she bit her lip trying to stay quiet, making her grip me even tighter. It seemed to be in proportion to how hard I grabbed her wings, so I tried a really hard grab, feeling intense pressure grip my manhood in return. I managed to bring us to a sitting position, Luna facing me with her legs either side of my waist. I leant forward and started to nibble on her ear, her breathing getting heavier. I could feel the pressure building, and knew that she was also close.

A few more strokes and we both screamed out in pleasure at the same time, and grabbed each others wings tightly as we rode through our joint orgasm. Once it was over, I feel back to the bed with Luna slumped on my chest. We stayed there for ten minutes, just holding each other, before Luna rolled off me and walked towards the shower. As much as I wanted to join her, I needed my rest. I was honestly surprised I lasted this long, not having had any for three months. Fucking doctors.

I watched as Luna came out of the bathroom, a towel wrapped around her. She took a seat at the dressing table and started to brush her mane. I rolled to my side and just watched her, smiling as she caught my gaze in the mirror, turning away with a blush. “What?”

“I just wanted to say... you're really beautiful, you know that right?”

“Oh shush, you'll make me embarrassed.” She continued to brush her mane, but dropped the brush in surprise as she gave out a moan of pleasure. “A-a-a-alec! I thought you h-h-had gotten over t-t-this phaaaah!! Stop! I caaah!!” I continued to roll my fingers around, using magic to send the sensation to Luna. She slammed her hands down and gripped the edge of the vanity, her body shuddering.

There was a sudden flash and I found myself in the shower, which then sprayed me with icy cold water. It didn't stop the moaning coming through from the next room, so I stepped it up a little. Briefly stopping to turn the water warm, I knelt down to the ground and stuck my tongue out, moving it up and down.

“AAAHHHH!!!! A-A-ALEC!!” I smirked to myself as it worked, and continued to wiggle my tongue. I went a little further and pretended to nibble. The bathroom door suddenly swung open and Luna made her way unsteadily towards the shower as I didn't stop. She came right up to me and grabbed my head in her hands, breaking my concentration. I tried to stand up, but she kept the pressure on me, a glare on her face. “Oh no! You started something, you are going to finish it!”

I didn't have a chance to ask what she meant as my face was mashed against her crotch.

Luna came awake from a cool breeze blowing over her, so she went to snuggle down closer to her stallion, but he was not there. She cracked open an eye and looked towards the window, where the moon was shining brightly in, and she could see a silhouette standing on the balcony. She wrapped a blanket around her and got off the bed, walking over to the window. “Alec? What are you doing?”

“I... couldn't sleep. What's going to happen to me Luna?”

“What... do you mean?”

“If I can't fly? I'm part pegasus. How do they deal with being grounded?”

“Most of them, in times long since passed, tried to... fly. It did not work out well, but they would rather try then not... ALEC! GET DOWN FROM THERE!” He had climbed up on to the table next to the railings, standing near the edge. She tried to grab him with her magic, but he was somehow blocking her. He wasn't using magic, but the sheer determination on his face told her that she wouldn't stop him this way. “Alec, did you hear what I just said! Your wing is healing! All it needs time! You haven't even got back to walking properly!”

He turned round to look at her, a soft smile on his face. He slowly unfurled both wings and took a step back. “Sometimes... you've got to run before you can walk.” She didn't have a chance to stop him as he fell backwards off the balcony, and she looked over the edge in fear, which slowly turned to relief. He wasn't gaining any height, but managing to glide across the gardens. She watched as he tried to flap his wings once, the left doing so, but the right snapping shut.

This caused him to spiral out of control, and Luna used her magic to quickly put on some clothes, then teleport to the garden just as he impacted the fountain. Fortunately the water was quite deep where he landed, and a low rumbling laughter came out from it. She slowly walked over and peered over the edge, before giving a scream of shock as she was pulled into the fountain as well.

He had made his way to the shallower edges, and now she found herself on her hands and knees. Alec was lying on his back underneath her, and pulled her head down into a kiss, smiling when she pulled away. She ran a hand across his chest and raised it up... then slapped him. “What were you thinking?!”

“That you look sexy with wet mane.”

“That's not what I meant! How could you attempt flying so soon!”

“Luna... I've been practising in my room, just a bit of hovering. Nothing too strenuous, so stop worrying.”

“I... always worry about you. I... know what kind of brain dead stunts you like to try!” She couldn't keep her glare up at his smirk, and soon joined in with his laughter. “In all seriousness, I'm glad you're not injured further. And it's not quite the same as the waterfall...but we are alone out here...” She slowly slid down his body, gripping the edge of his boxers with her teeth. He looked around once and then nodded.

Celestia opened her window and trotted out onto her balcony to get some fresh air. She had been having a restless night, and thought a cool breeze would help her. She closed hers eyes and took some deep breaths, but opened them when she heard Luna's voice drifting up. “But we are alone out here...” She looked over her balcony and caught movement just out of the light in one of the fountains. She angled her telescope towards it and put an eye to the end.

She could just make Luna out bent over, her body moving up and down, and at the edge of the fountain was Alec, head tilted back with face of intense pleas... No, they can't be doing that down there! She saw one of his hands come up, but she couldn't see where it went... until it appeared travelling downs Luna's back, and slipping round to the front of her underwear. She then realised they were doing that, and she told herself to get away.

But another part of her told her to watch, which is exactly what she did. She let out a moan of pleasure a moment later and then the full force of what she was doing hit her. She was watching her sister and her partner sharing an intimate moment, and going by where her hoof was, pleasing herself, realising how wrong it was, even if it was hot...

She quickly returned to her room, closing the window behind her. She would never be able to get to sleep now. She walked over to her desk and pulled out a roll of parchment, drafting a short letter and sending it away. She opened her closet and selected a single, simple outfit, putting on and lying on the bed.

A moment later the door burst open and the Captain of The Guard galloped in, his armour half on. “Princess, I have come. What is it... that... you... need...” His mouth slowly made a break for the floor at the scene he was presented with. Celestia's horn glowed and the doors shut behind him.

“I... am in need of your services again. But... the time I promise to be gentle.” The stallion smiled, and let his armour fall to the floor.

“This isn't feasible! How could his wing just heal like that?”

“It's a bucking miracle, that's what it is!” I just sighed. The doctors had been arguing for over an hour now, trying to figure out what had happened. I got off the bed and left them to it, walking out of the room. They didn't seem to notice so I carried on, making it about halfway to the exit when everything went black.

I opened my eyes to find myself back on a hospital bed, turning my head to see Luna staring at me. I could feel something very wrong with my body, and hoped she might know why. “Luna, why can I feel something on my head?”

“Because... you have something... extra.”

“What?” I looked up above my head, and there it was, the end of a horn. “So... I've turned into a unicorn? Shame, I'm going to miss flying.”

“No... you can still fly...” I looked to my sides and sure enough, there were my wings.

“You have got to be joking.”

Luna offered me a sheepish smile. “Well, at least we know how you can use magic?”

“So, what do we do now? I mean, I have a horn as well as wings. We're not going to be able to hide it, unless you keep me in the castle.” Luna smiled devilishly at me, her horn starting to glow. I was confused at first until I felt some rope looping around my wrists. I waited till they were secure, before summoning my own magic, seeing a beige glow above my head.

“Ah ah!” Luna had a box in one hand and was waving her finger at me. “I can't let you do that, so this is going to help.” The box was opened to reveal some sort of ring, which she picked up and started to walk towards me. I kept my horn lit, waiting for the right time to strike. She was just about to put the ring on me, when I let my magic go. Her hands suddenly shot behind her back, and the ropes teleported form my wrists to hers. “Hey!” I grabbed the ring and placed it on the tip of her horn, holding it in place. Her eyes focused on it and she tried to back away. “No... not that! Please!”

I kept pushing her back, and she eventually hit the wall, which is when I dropped the ring, letting it slide down her horn. I watched as she tried to use her magic, a few blue sparks coming out, but nothing more. And then she ran towards the door, but I chased her down and picked her up, lifting her over my shoulder. “No! Please, let me go!”

I lowered her to the bed and smirked at her. The pout on her lips said no, but those eyes said yes. The door swung open as a few guards came galloping in, horns alight... until they saw the situation. They looked at each other, bowed, and slowly backed away. I turned back to the mare on my bed and smirked. And then I noticed she had done her mane differently today. It was coming over her forehead, almost covering one eye, and done up at the back in a... pony tail.

I started to snicker at the image. “Pray tell, what is so funny? And can you loosen these ropes?”

“Sorry, it's just that you're a pony, and your hair is in a pony... I'll shut up now.” I walked behind her, putting my hands on the ropes. She lifted a leg up and attempted to stamp on my foot. I changed plans.

“Hey! I said looser, not tighter.”

“You need to learn your lesson.” I grabbed another bit of rope and tied her ankles together, letting her struggle some more before laying her across my lap. “Now... what aren't you going to do again?”

“You'd best let me go!”

“That's not what I was after.” I lifted up the hem of her skirt, bringing it over her flank. “Luna, you shouldn't wear white panties.”

“And why not?”

“Because they go see through when wet. No then, what aren't you going to do again?” She said nothing, so I placed my hand on her rump and squeezed. “Last chance.”

“I will do what I want, I am ahhh!” I lifted my hand up and brought it down on her rump again. “Aaah!” And again.”Aaah!” She tried to get up, but I pushed her back down with my other hand, and slapped her again. “Aaah! Please... stop!” I lowered my hand slowly and massaged where I had hit, getting a moan from Luna.

“And what are you not going to do again?”

“A-a-attempt to s-s-stamp on your f-f-foot.” I rolled her over so that she was sitting on my lap, and started to rub my hands around her body.

“Good girl.” I could feel how wet she was, as it was soaking my crotch.”I guess you want to be let out now, huh?”

“Y-y-ye... no. Please, not yet.” I moved my left hand up and started playing with her breasts, whilst my right hand snaked lower. I just rubbed on the outside of her panties whilst nibbling on her ear, her moans getting louder and louder. “L-l-lock... t-t-the d-d-door!” I lit my horn and did as asked. We didn't want to be interrupted again.”T-top drawer.” I lifted her off me and laid her down on the bed, walking over to her vanity. Once I opened it I turned round and smiled.

“Are you sure?” She nodded slowly to me, so I picked up the gag and blindfold, returning to the bed. Luna couldn't wait to get the gag in, almost snatching it out of my hands with her mouth. I secured the strap around her head and placed the blindfold over her eyes. “So, I'm guessing I can do whatever I want?”

“Mmpph mmpphh.” There was a nod accompanying the sound.

“So... if I want to go out with the guys and have a few drinks...”

“MMMPPHHH!Mpphh!!” I had once more placed my hand between her legs, and began rubbing. “Mmmppphh.”

“Just kidding. Although I'm beginning to suspect you like this...”

“Mmmppphhh!” Her back arched as I slipped my hand into her panties, teasing her even more. I then felt her trying to get my fingers herself. I kept pulling them away instead. “MMPPHH!” Oh well, playtime was over. I slipped three in in one go. “Mmmmppphhhh!”

Chapter 29: An engaging day. (a little bit of s)

“Alec, what is the meaning of this?” I paused my swim and looked up to Luna, who was back to normal, standing at the edge of the pool. There was a book floating in her magic, but I couldn't make out the title so just shrugged. “It is a book on advanced magic. And one of the pages has a bookmark.” I clamped my jaw shut, this was meant to be a surprise. She started to open the book so I grabbed it with my magic and sent it through a random portal. I'd find it later.

“That is for me to know and you to find out.” She didn't notice the glowing orange portal above her. I made sure it was wide enough, and then started summoning the other end. She then looked up, head tilted in confusion, and I struck, forming the portal under the water, which soaked her. Her face turned back to me with a smile and she jumped into the pool, swimming over and wrapping her fore hooves around my neck.

I could feel her rear leg moving in the water, rubbing against my thigh, as she leant forward and started to nibble on my neck. After a few minutes she pulled away. “So... are you going to tell me now? That page was marked on transformation spells.”

“Still not telling you.” Her rear leg started to get higher, reaching my pelvis. “That's not going to work. Luna, this is... something I need to decide, and I only I can. I've asked for some help from another, but she's promised to keep quiet. Please trust me on this.” She pouted a little but nodded, so I pulled her back for a kiss.

“Hate to break up the moment, but was there something you needed from me, Alec?” We turned our heads to see Twilight sitting on the edge, so I pulled away from Luna and got out. I grabbed a towel and partially dried off, taking a seat at a table on the patio. I looked at Luna, who understood and left, leaving me and Twilight alone. “So, what do you need?”

I summoned the book back and dumped it in front of her, cracking it open to the page I had indexed, pointing to the spell I was interested in. “That one.” She titled her head down and read, before her eyes caught my little extra note.

“Are... you sure? I mean, once you do, there's no guarantee that'll we will be able to get you back. Ever.”

“I know that Twi, that's why I asked for your help. I don't know how to pull it off.”

“Very well. I'll visit Zecora and get the necessary ingredients. This is going to take more than just magic to work. Plus we'll need more magic, and as I assume you don't want Luna to find out, we'll have to get Celestia's help.”

“Yeah... I thought as much. I've already done something to get her attention.”

“Alec, what did you do?” I just smirked back at the glare Twilight was giving me.

“The cake is a lie.”

Celestia made her way through the castle, heading towards the kitchen. Her mind was set on one thing, and she was going to get it, diet or not. Buck what her PR ponies told her, she was going to show Equestria that you didn't need to be stick thin. Sneaking her head in the door to make sure the coast was clear, she smiled as she found the room empty. She crept forward to ensure any ponies laying in wait wouldn't find her, and used her magic to open the fridge, a trickle of drool dropping from her mouth as she beheld the treasure on the shelf.

Her hoof slowly moved towards it, mere inches away, when it disappeared with a flash. She shut the fridge with a confused look, turning to find the cake on the counter behind her. She once more approached, and yet again it was teleported away. She tried to use her magic, but this time it left the kitchen entirely, a piece of parchment in its place. She floated it over and gave it a read.

Princess Sunbutt,

I have been informed that you are only allowed cake
on special occasions. Therefore I have taken it upon
myself to ensure that you stick to your prescribed diet.
I have instructed all the cooks, in your name of course,
to inform me of when a cake is baked, so I can enchant
it, not allowing you to get any. Once you have proven you
will no longer let it go to your flanks, you can have cake
any time you want.

Luna's consort!

She set the letter down, unblinking. How did he find out? Why was her magic not beating his? She set these thoughts aside and summoned more of her magic, attempting to get the cake back. Instead a long yellow object appeared with another roll of parchment on it.

PS: Here, have a banana instead.

And this one is for eating, you dirty mare!

She lit the paper on fire, hiding any evidence away. She pushed her magic throughout the castle, before teleporting to the pool and standing next to the table with a scowl on her face. Her eyes narrowed as she spotted the plate in his hands, a similar one placed in front of Twilight, who looked up sheepishly from the slice she was eating. Celestia reached her hoof towards the cake, but it once more teleported away from her. “Alec.”

“Celestia.”

“Might I have a slice of cake?”

“No.”

“And why not.”

“Because we are not at the party.”

“And how does one get to the party?”

“You need to assume the party submission escort position.” She wracked her brain, going through all the policies and modes of decorum she could think of, coming back empty. “Don't look at me, even I don't know what it is. But, I may allow you a slice. If you help me.”

“Very well, what do you need?” A book was floated over and she gave it a glance, mumbling over the first few paragraphs. “...Starwirl's theories on transforming one species to another... PERMANENT?”

“Shss! Not so loud! This is meant to be kept quiet!” She then fully realised his intentions, and what it would mean. He seemed determined to do this, and the look on his face told her that he wouldn't be dissuaded from it. “So, when do you think we can get this done?”

“Once we have the reagents, it should only take a while. I assume you'll be collecting them, Twilight?”

“Yes, but it will be a while yet, some of these flowers aren't in season.”

For the past two months Luna had grown suspicious. What ever Alec was up to, it was clear that there were more ponies helping than just Twilight. She decided to take some time off, and head up north to the Crystal Empire. So there she was, dozing on the seat when the compartment door slid open slowly. Her ear twitched as the pony entered, but she chose to remain with the image of being asleep. Whoever it was got closer, and she picked up on a familiar scent, fighting to keep herself from smiling.

Instead of the expected kiss, she let out a pleasurable gasp of air, eyes snapping as a shudder ran through her body. He had tried something new, deciding to bite down gently on her horn. By the time she got her breath back, he was sitting down opposite her with a grin on his face. “So, I guess we've both got business up here, huh? You should have said, we could've travelled together.”

“If I had known, I might have done so. But on the other hoof, you are being frustrating with what ever you are planning! I need some time to myself.”

“Frustrating huh? Well, if you want to feel that way.” His horn glowed a little, and before she could react, she was on her back in the air. She tried to break free with her magic, but his was stronger. Sure, she could move the moon, but when it came to sheer battles of will, he won... every time. She was slowly floated over in front of him, and his hand began to run through her tail.

“Alec, not yet!” Her horn flashed once and she twisted her neck around. “There, we are soundproofed.” He pressed his muzzle closer, and she began to feel his hot breaths against her flank. Her tail was brushed aside and she then felt them drifting across her mare hood. “Please, whenever you are ready.”

He got up instead and walked round to where Luna's head was, smiling devilishly at her. “Hmm, not yet. You see, you wanted frustrating. So, you can be frustrated.” Her eyes went wide as she felt the buzzing. How the hay had he managed to place that on her without her knowing. After a few seconds it stopped, and she saw a small lump of plastic in his hand. His finger moved a little, and the toy started up again.

“O-o-oh come on! T-t-t-that's not fair!” It went off again, and she pouted at him, but it did nothing to dissuade him. She still had use of her wings, so used them to propel herself over, using her magic to undo his trousers. She gave a gasp as he started the vibrator up again, and she proceeded to continue removing his trousers, and then his underwear. She knew he would already be aroused, and licked her lips. “Only if you leave it on.”

He clicked the remote once and she gave a moan of pleasure, before dipping her head, and blowing across his shaft. She teased him a little at first, brushing across him with her wings. She gave one last smile before parting her lips and taking him in her mouth, tongue swirling as she moved her head down. She was slowly flipped the right way up and set down on her hooves.

The stimulation between her legs was still going, and she reached a fore hoof down to assist, moaning around his stallion hood. She closed her mouth slightly, pulling back whilst biting slightly, making him give off a hiss of air. She felt his hand come down and run through her mane, before going still. She had done this enough times to know that this was a sign that he was close. So she pulled away and stared at him, smirking as his face dropped. “First... you please me.”

He began to smile, slowly standing and ensuring the door was locked. He turned back to her and waved a hand at the bunk. She trotted over and laid on her back, her fore hooves going behind her head, and her rear legs slowly spreading. Alec walked over and dropped to his knees, placing his arms over her legs. He started slow, kissing around the edges, before running his tongue across her. His hands then ran through her wings, and she let out a loud moan as he gripped them at the base.

After five minutes she was breathless, and she couldn't wait any longer. Using her magic to push him away a little, she beckoned him closer when he looked up. He stood and towered over her, a soft smile on his face, before he leant down and she felt his chest press against her. And then the train lurched, making him thrust forwards into her. The screams she made were enough to pierce the spell on the compartment, but they were fortunately drowned out by the shocked noises the other travellers were making.

I stood on the bridge of my destroyed ship, looking over the salvageable stuff I had gathered. It was separated into two piles. One was stuff that the operator would need hands to use, the rest could be used by anypony. I picked up the stuff the ponies would be able to use, taking it outside and dumping it on the cart that was waiting, nodding to the two ponies attached to it. I'd see that stuff in Canterlot. I looked down at the smiling mare next to me. “And the rest is yours. I've deleted all the computers, there are no weapons, and nothing inside that can be used to harm any other ponies.”

“It will make quite a museum piece, thank you. I still wish you'd let me pay for it.” I shook my head at her, smiling at the same time.

“It's scrap. I have no use for it, and I'm pretty sure nopony wants to leave this world. Even if they did, it's never going to fly again. I made sure of that. Enjoy yourself.” With a squeal of glee she jumped through the hatch, a stead stream of mumbling coming out as she poured over the insides. I began my slow walk back to the Crystal city, when I noticed a shadow tailing me from the trees. I stopped walked and readied my magic. “You might as well come out, I know you're there.” Several minotaurs stepped out, one blocking the road in front of me. I looked to his eyes to see it was my friend from way back.

“I've finally caught up with you. Time to teach you a lesson.” I raised up my right arm, the back of my hand facing the ground, curling my fingers into my palm. The others slowly surrounded me, getting closer.

“You want to teach me a lesson? Well, can you do things like this?” I snapped my fingers open, conjuring a ball of blue flame in my hand. They all glanced at each other nervously, and I summoned a ball of lightning in me left hand. “Fine, if you want to go...” My horn flashed, and a scroll appeared, dropping to the floor and rolling to the leaders feet.

He picked it up and read it over, eyes going wide at the contents. He dropped it to the floor, and with a huff walked away, the others following confused. I waited till they had left my sight, and walked over to the letter, bending down to read it.

Alec,

Everything is ready upon your return to Canterlot Castle.
When you arrive, head straight to Luna's library, we have
a plan to keep her away. I am still wary of your reasons,
but after my latest letter from Cadance, I at least know
one of them. I can also tell she will be overjoyed. I look
forward to your return.

Princess Celestia.

To Iron Will,

Don't even think about it, not unless you
would like an apartment viewing the world
from the moon. Do not test me.

It was time. I suddenly felt uneasy about my decision, but then I thought of Luna, and her smile, and her eyes. I was doing this for her, not because of her. I let my magic flow, picking out the nearest strong source, and teleported my way there. Shining Armour's head shot up, his cheeks flustered as he stared at me. “W-w-what is the meaning of the i-i-i-intrusion?”

“Thought I'd just come to let you know I'll be leaving soon. Celestia says it's ready.” I then spotted a small bit of hair sticking out from under the desk, am mix of pink, purple and yellow. “So yeah, I guess I'll see you later Armour. Oh, and goodbye to you as well, Princess.” There was a thud as she banged her head in the underside of the desk, and I walked away laughing. I could just hear their voices through the door.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes Shiny, I'm fine. Now, where were we?”

“Are you sure you want to...”

“Do me a favour, and just shut up like a good colt? There, isn't that better? And now we can continue.”

Luna trotted through the halls of the castle confused. She had received a letter simply saying 'throne room, now', but she didn't recognise the hoof writing. She stopped and blinked when she reached the entrance hall, two rows of guards forming a path to the throne room doors. Each one was in their full armour, spears pointed to the ceiling on their right. She approached the first pair, who tilted their spears until they formed an arch, the rest following suit as she walked forward. What is the need for such a vanguard? This is only used on special occasions, but there is nothing special about today.

The doors swung open to reveal a darkened room, the normal lights replaced with blue flames, give a subdued feeling. The row of guards continued inside, still creating the arch as she approached the dais, but had to stop as a row of guards prevented an further ingress. A soft voice rolled down from the throne. “Well, Captain, what should we do with this one?” She couldn't make out the speaker, as there was a shadow covering the view. To one side were the Element Bearers, surrounded by guards.

“I don't know sir, but I don't think we can do the same.” Luna's eyes went wide, that was the voice of their Captain! A light snapped on, drawing her attention to a corner. She saw Celestia in a cage, hoof stretched out to try and grab the cake that was just out of reach. There was a magic cancelling ring locked around her horn. “She's quite a looker. Why don't you take her as a mate, sire.”

“Hmm, not a bad idea. I would say I see a promotion for you in the future, but there's not much higher you can go. Princess Luna!” She whipped her head back to the shadow, not understanding how this could have happened without their knowledge. The shadow moved, making it's way down the steps. The guards parted, and the swirling darkness crept even further forward. It lowered to the floor, and the voice spoke again. “Would you do me the honour... of being my wife?”

There was flash of light and the curtains were drawn back, the room returning to normal. Celestia was now standing in front of her, to the side of the shadow, happily munching on a slice of cake. A beige hoof came through the swirling, a open box resting on it. There sat a beautiful ring, and the shadow gradually faded away, revealing a smiling alicorn stallion. Tears began to form as she stared into his piercing blue eyes, who clashed with her own, filled with hope. And then she realised who this was. “A-a-alec?”

“Yes Luna?” She jumped forward, knocking the ring away as she pinned him to the floor, locking their lips in a passionate kiss. After a few moments she pulled away, looking up to see Celestia smirking, a hoof pointed at Luna's wings, which were fully outstretched. She returned her gaze to the stallion on the floor.

“If you would have me, then... yes. I would love to have the honour of you as my husband.” His hoof came up and wrapped around her neck, pulling her back for another kiss as the room erupted with thunderous applause.

Author's Note

I dread to say it, but things are coming to a close. One final chapter and I shall be done.

Epilogue: Diary of an ex-human.

Log entry number one:

So, Twilight has decided that I need to start writing a diary. Luna has received an 'invite' to Saddle Arabia, so she should be gone for a further two weeks. The transformation is going to take place tomorrow, apparently it is a long, and possibly painful, experience, especially if it is permanent. I'm going to miss my fingers...not sure how I'll please Luna with a hoof, but I can learn. It's going to take time learning to walk again, but hopefully I can get it down before she returns.

Log entry number seventeen:

It happened again today. All I was doing was taking a stroll through Canterlot when a pony noticed me and gasped in shock...

I stared back at the ponies staring at me, and one by one they started to bow. I turned around expecting to see one of the princesses, but there was nopony behind me. I shook my head and sat on my haunches. “Guys, come on. Enough with this crap already.” A little filly slowly trotted over, nuzzling against my foreleg.

“Please... don't be mad, your majesty. We don't want you to be unhappy.” I sighed, remembering what I had said to the last crowd.

“Look, I'm not royalty, okay? I just happen to have a horn and wings. So do changelings. Not that I'm one of those creepy ass bugs!”

“Hey, I resent that!” I looked up to the pupil-less eyes of a changeling mare.

“Uh... sorry. Anyway, the point is I'm just a regular pony. The royalty is over there, behind you!” Their gazes followed my fore hoof, which was pointing to a second hoof bookshop, where I had spied Twilight trying to use me as a distraction so she could slip away. The crowds immediately turned and bowed, before heaping praise upon her. I watched her cheeks light up in embarrassment, and went to back away, but I looked down to see what was holding me. It was the little filly.

“Could you help me? I've lost my mommy in the crowds.”

“Uh...sure. Hop on my back and we'll look for her together.” I bent down and the little unicorn jumped onto my back, nestling between my wings. “So then sweetie, what's your name, your mothers name, and what does she look like?”

“My name's Dinky, and my mommy is called Mommy.” I couldn't help but laugh at that, the innocence of the young is always awesome. “But... other ponies call her Derpy, and she's got the same coat and mane colour, and her eyes are all duuhh!” She rolled her eyes, finishing with them crossed. I laughed again, before spotting a pony with bubbles for a cutie mark chatting up a storm with Twilight. I pushed my way through the crowd, making my way over to the pair.

“Excuse miss, I think you dropped this.” I turned slightly to show the filly on my back, and she was swept up in the mare's forelegs. I looked to Twilight and smirked, before teleporting away, leaving her to deal with the crowds...

…that was a fun day. I spent the afternoon as a colt for my punishment, but I couldn't complain. Not when the castle staff dropped their duties whenever I appeared to fawn over me, especially in the kitchen. It's no wonder I felt sick that night after eating that many cakes...

Log entry number twenty three:

I WANT MY FUCKING FINGERS BACK!!!!

Log entry number twenty four:

After my outburst, and subsequent rampage throughout the castle yesterday, I had to pay a visit to the shrink. It took several hours, but eventually I had let go of my fingers. I was a pony now, and for the rest of my unnaturally long life, as apparently alicorns had. I didn't need them. She even gave me tips on how to please a mare. That would come in use soon.

Log entry number thirty six:

It was hard avoiding Luna as she came back a day early, so I had to spend my time hiding as best as possible. I couldn't even use magic, as she would undoubtedly detect it. What made matters worse, she didn't know about my transformation, so she was in human form. She had just entered my room, checking the hall behind her, which gave me enough time to hide in the closet, door cracked open a little.

She walked across the room and into the bathroom, where I heard things being moved. She came back out a few minutes later, dressed in frilly black lingerie. I had to close my eyes to stop myself reacting, but they reopened when I felt her magic flow. A pole appeared, reaching from the floor to the ceiling. I wasn't sure what was going on, until she grabbed a hold of it, and wrapped one of her legs around it. Then some music started and she began to dance.

I wanted to jump out there and then, but I had to stick to my plans. She continued for half an hour, and she was very good at it. She reached a hand between her legs, her eyes shining with surprise. She gathered up a dress and left the room, checking to make sure the coast was clear again. I assumed that she was going to... 'take care' of herself, as she couldn't find me.

I eased my way out of the closet and into the bathroom, to do the same. Turns out magic can work the same way as fingers!

Log entry number thirty seven:

She said yes! For that moment, my heart stopped beating as my brain went through her saying no, our eventual break up, and me with some random mare from wherever. But then she tackled me to the floor and said yes. My thoughts drifted to Sarah soon after, but... I loved Luna more. And I knew that where ever Sarah was, she would be happy for me. I could finally close that chapter of my life.

Log entry number thirty seven, annex a:

Luna insisted I contacted Sarah this evening, so together we sat in front of the comm terminal, waiting for it to boot up. The words 'checking connection' flared up, and we were rewarded with a tired looking woman covering herself with a blanket, staring at the screen confused. She recognised Luna, but it wasn't till I spoke in English to her that she understood fully. She was a little taken back, but accepted it.

We said our farewells and Luna and I retired to bed. The night was young, and we had a lot of energy. It was very embarrassing, the amount of giggles coming from Luna's mouth as I tried to... 'mount' her. I used my magic on the top drawer and brought the gag out, telling her to stop laughing. She did so with her mouth, but I could still see the mirth in her eyes as she looked back at me. It soon turned to surprise as I found the right position...

Log entry number hundred and thirteen:

I am going to fucking kill Armour! Last night was my stag party. Not too bad, started off with a few bevies in the castle, surrounded by a few stallion friends, and then we hit the bars of Canterlot. The last place I remembered being was in Hoofers, and then I woke up this morning with a rather attractive and supple young mare... hoofcuffed to me. And then I noticed the click of a camera and felt somepony teleport away.

Almost immediately I heard thundering down the corridor, and tried to get the cuff off, but even magic wouldn't work. The door burst open revealing a shocked Luna, who had a stallion cuffed to her hoof. After a quick chat, the mare and stallion went their separate ways. It also took several hours to find somepony with a key for the locks.

Once we saw the giggling couple, Luna and I swore revenge on Cadance and Armour.

Log entry number two hundred and sixty eight:

It's tomorrow. I am more nervous now than I have ever been. What if something goes wrong? What if she changes her mind? I had voiced these questions, and more, to some of the castle guards, but they had all replied that things were going to go well. I chose to listen, but the worries were still there. If things went as planned, then I wouldn't be updating this for a while. If not, then I'll see you tomorrow night diary.

Log entry number three hundred and one:

Well, I guess we can safely say that things went to plan. We've just got back from the honeymoon, and are fucking exhausted. No, I'm not writing any of those details in here. Twilight wants to see this sometime, and that is something private.

There was some talk, mainly from Luna, about foals, but we both agreed to wait at least a year. Time wasn't an important factor for us, so we could wait. I wasn't immortal, but neither were Luna or Celestia. We just had extremely long lives, and could still be killed in other ways. It's now my priority to make sure that doesn't happen to my wife.

Log entry number three hundred and forty six:

We got that motherfucker Armour back at last! All it took was getting Chrysalis to pose as Cadance, and getting him to run through one of her fantasies for her. What he didn't know about was the camera we had placed in the room. Once he was finished, and they left, we ran in, grabbed the camera, and took the film to be delveloped. He didn't show his face for a month after we plastered the Crystal City with the best picture of the lot!

Log entry number four hundred and twenty five.

I apologise if this entry seems sloppy, it's been so long since I wrote with fingers. Luna taught me her human spell today, as she wanted to show me something. At first I was hesitant to comply with her request, but the sparkle in her eye told me it was for both of us. Once more I found myself on two legs, walking awkwardly. I went to the storage cupboard to get my clothes, but Luna pushed me into a chair in the middle of the room. A quick flash of her horn and the pole appeared, fixed firmly to the floor. It was one hell of a show!

Log entry number five hundred and seventy two:

Luna's being ill for a while now. She constantly eats, and then a few hours later it returns. She's put on weight as well, but refuses to see a doctor. Exercise isn't helping, so I've given her another two months. If she hasn't improved by then, I'm taking her there myself. I can't stand to see her like this, something is clearly wrong but she's choosing to ignore it. I know she sometimes sneaks a peak in here, so if you're reading, please... just go to them, for me?

Log entry number six hundred and twelve.

I've had enough. It is only midday, but as soon as I have written this I am hunting her down and dragging her, kicking and screaming to the hospital. She is going to get a check up whether she likes it or not! Even if she tries to beat me away, she's still fucking going!

...Luna watched as the quill in his magic was set down on his desk, and then he closed the diary with his hoof. He let out a sigh and prepared to stand, and she felt it was time to make her presence known. “Alec?” His head turned to look at her and he smiled. “I... think it's time we went to the hospital. My meals are now staying down, but I am having stomach pains. Could you come with me?”

He trotted over and nuzzled her, wrapping a wing over her back. The trotted down the hall together, heading towards the infirmary. The tests were extensive. Luna was hooked up to all kinds of machines, there were blood tests, magic ability tests, even eyesight tests, but they couldn't find anything wrong. One of the nurses came in to check her vitals, but when she placed the stethoscope to Luna's chest, her hoof slipped and it rested on her stomach instead.

The nurses eyes went wide with shock, and she charged out of the room. “Hey, what's wrong? Get your ass back here and tell me now!” There was no answer to Alec's enquiry, and he prepared to chase the mare down. The doors swung open once more, and she returned, pushing a small screen. “Nurse...what is it?” She looked to him and smiled, then began rubbing a cool liquid on Luna's stomach, before placing a medical tool over it, which was hooked up to the screen. “Wait... that's an ultra sound. Nurse... why are you smiling like that?”

The screen came in to focus, and tears of joy slowly seeped from Luna's eyes. There on the screen was the silhouette of a foal. The nurse turned back to the pair, a massive grin on her face. “Congratulations, you're going to be parents!” She squee'd out.

'THUD'

Both mares looked to the unconscious stallion laying splayed out on the floor. Luna giggled a little, lifting him with her magic and settling him down on the bed next to her. She nuzzled under his chin, and then thanked the nurse. She let more magic flow and teleported them to their room, where she chose to remain snuggled against her stallion for the moment. “Well... things are about to get interesting...”

Author's Note

And thus we come to the end of the story. I thank you all for reading and rating. I know it's not perfect, there are a few plot holes, but to be honest....I can't be arsed to sort them out.

This has been as wonderful, and at times strange, journey. There was one thing I wanted to do in the later chapters. I wanted to go back and edit this story into being anthro, but I couldn't do it by the point it entered my mind. I believe it would've been better that way, but I am still happy with the finished product.

And for those of you that missed it, I had a bit of art commissioned for the story.
It's their dance on the clouds, and at first I was okay with it, but it has grown on me, and now I have decided it is perfect.

Once more, I thank you for reading.

There is a sequel, which can be found over here: Night's Children

Chapter 2: Completing the Exodus.

We slunk along in the shadows of the buildings, hiding in them when we heard movement. I understood by what the robot meant by 'last' human. These things certainly weren't. In a world like this, weapons would be sought after, but having entered a police station and finding the armoury fully stocked, something wasn't right. As we hid from more of these things, I finally got my first look at them.

They stood upright, but it seemed they had devolved somewhat, as they were hunched over. Looked more like Neanderthals. They stopped outside the door and I ducked down again, banging in to the side....and knocking something off. They all looked towards us and made their way inside. I could hear some sort of growling, and raised my rifle up ready to counter them, but the robot burst out of the corner and shot them all. “We'd best hurry, this was one of their patrols. When they don't reach the next checkpoint, they'll send out scouting parties to find them. It would be best if we are not present. The drop ship is close now, a few more blocks.”

I nodded to it and we left the store front, moving as fast as we could. We reached a fenced off area, and I could see the ship waiting on a landing pad. Finding a hole, we entered the airfield, but didn't see the trip wire. So, at least they still had some sort of intelligence left. It was linked to an alarm of some sort... made out of skulls. The rattling ended, but we could hear commotion around us. At the far edges of the field, we could see more of these things coming, and they would be here before we got to the ship.

The robot rolled forward and multiple barrels appeared out of it's body. The head turned to look at me. “Go now sergeant, I will hold them off.”

“No, I'm going to need you!”

“The computer will tell you everything you need to know. Now... go.” The head turned again and the guns opened fire. I ran towards the ship and ran up the ramp, closing it behind me. I made my way in the cockpit and started looking for the controls. They were in a different language, but I followed the colour codded controls till I found the power switch. I turned the power on, and looked out the window in time to see the robot get swarmed. It fell to the ground and they started to beat the crap out of it. It fired a few times and then stopped moving, leaving them to come for the ship. I could hear the bangs on the hull as I got the autopilot to run through a quick pre flight, looking at the light to tell me it was ready for flight.

After five minutes, it glowed green, and as I reached up to grab it one of the creatures landed on the canopy. As it raised it's weapon, some sort of cudgel, I hit the ignition switch and watched as wall of flame incinerated anything within a thirty metre radius. For the first ten seconds nothing happened, then I found myself pressed into the seat as the ship accelerated away from the ground very quickly. It took around two minutes to clear the atmosphere, and the ship reorientated itself, aiming for the moon. I then noticed a registration plaque on the bulkhead.

''Truppentransporter zwei, Magie von Freundschaft.'

Okay, that name is getting changed!

Twilight was stood above the three fillies, arguing over who would be the first to play with Smarty Pants. It still wasn't right, this wasn't the kind of friendship problem she wanted to solve, she needed something else. “I gotta think of something! Thinkthinkthinkthinkthink, Twilight, think!” She let out a surprised gasp. “That's it! Ooh, you're going to like Smarty Pants. And you're going to like her more than anything.” She charged her horn and released her spell, watching as the fillies eyes turned to heart shapes. They stopped arguing and turned to look at the doll. Scootaloo was the first to speak.

“I want it!”

Applebloom popped up in front of her. “I need it!”

Sweetie Belle then jumped in front of both of them. “ I really like her mane!” Twilight smiled to herself over her success, watching as the girls started to argue over who wanted it more.

“The 'want it, need it' spell. Works every time. Okay okay, let's break it up. I think we can all see that there is an important lesson to be learned here about....” The fillies started to roll around on the ground. “C'mon, girls, we're all friends here, right? Don't you think you ought to share?” Applebloom was thrown out of the pony pile.

“No way!” She charged back into the group, and Twilight let out an annoyed groan. A large barrelled red stallion came up next to her, and she turned to see who it was.

“Big McIntosh! Thank goodness! You've got to help me get that doll away from those girls!”

“Eeyup.” He put down the bucket and leant in to the pile, coming away with the doll in his mouth.

“Oh thank you so much! Now, if you could just give her to me?”

“Nnnope.” The stallion took of running, the three fillies chasing him down, and drawing the attention of other ponies in the park.

Little did Spike know how bad it was going to get when he said things wouldn't end well....

I watched as the drop ship slowed to a crawl, just coasting as it approached the docking bay. A arm from the large ship in orbit extended out, catching the drop ship. My body was slammed in to the harness at the sudden deceleration. The arm started to retract, and once inside the door closed. I saw air pouring into the room, and the red light turned green, the inner doors opening to reveal a spacious shuttle bay. There were nine other drop ships inside, the only bay being empty was the one I now occupied. The ramp opened automatically, and I made my way off.

A path was traced on the floor by white lights, so I started to follow them towards the bulkhead. They took me down multiple corridors until they just stopped, and a door to my left slid away, revealing a well lit room. It was pristine white, with a few beds to the side and one in the middle, surrounded by strange equipment. I stepped in to the room and the lights fluttered, followed by a voice to my left. “Danke für die Aktivierung des Notfall medizinische Hologramm.” I turned to see a man in a white coat. “Bitte geben Sie die Art Ihrer Bedrängnis.”

He was waiting for a reply, but I didn't understand what he was saying. He approached, and then spoke again. “Können Sie mich verstehen? Sprechen Sie Deutsch?” I recognised that sentence, but I hadn't spoken it in years. I racked my brain for a few minutes whilst he stared at me, before I finaly got what I wanted to say.

“Nicht sehr gut. Sprachen sie Englisch?” It was too much to hope for, but the man closed his eyes and I could see them moving under the lids. A few moments later, he reopened them and looked back at me.

“Can... you understand me now?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Ah, brilliant. Now, thank you for activating the Emergency Medical Hologram. Please state the nature of your affliction.” A medical hologram. A hologram. “Wait, you are not a member of the crew. Hold on a moment. Scanning. Oh. You are the only human on the ship, it was evacuated. I wonder why. No matter, lie on the bed and I will perform a arrivals medical.”

“Look, I just got here and followed the lights. I have no idea where I am, what is going on, where every one else is, or what the fuck has happened in the last thousand years!”

“Where have you been?”

“In a fucking ice tube for a thousand fucking years! Everyone I know is fucking dead, the world I knew is fucking dead, and now I'm dealing with a fucking computer!”

“I think you need to calm down. I can not help you in this state.”

“Calm down? I think I'm doing pretty fucking well don't you? In fact, I don't have to put with this shit! I'm going to find out what's going on, and you can't do a fucking thing to stop me!”

The doors slid shut in front of me and the white lights turned red. “Really? You are now locked in, so I suggest you just comply with me.” I leaped at him, but passed right through. “Hologram, remember? I can control my consistency, and that allows me to chose what I can physically touch. Now, let's get you on the bed.” His arm grabbed me by the shoulder and lead me over to a bed.

I couldn't do anything to him, so let him work. The first thing was a blood test, and it was still carried out the same way, but was placed in some sort of scanner. The next was and MRI, CAT scan, and other similar procedures, and then the blood test was complete. The hologram sat in his office getting a picture of my biology, and after a few minutes came back in to the main room. “Well, it has be along time since we have seen these sort of results, and you are one of the 'pure' humans. What were you doing down on Terra?”

“Terra?” He just nodded at me. “This is the first time I left. It was still called Earth when I was there. I've been in cyro-stasis for the last thousand years!”

“Ah, well in that case, we'll need to get you up to speed. First though, you'll want to head up to the bridge and get us under way. If you are the last one to come back, which considering all drop ships are back, then there is no use waiting around. Just follow the lights, I'll change the computers language settings.”

The lights on the door turned white and slid open, so I walked out and followed them again. It took me about twenty minutes to actually reach the bridge, and I was quite surprised how enclosed it was. It could easily be run by one person at a push, and by around seven at full capacity. I made my way to the centre chair and sat down, watching as the floor raised up, giving me a control terminal.

I tapped it once and it lit up, text scrolling across it really fast. The screen went dark again and I could hear a deep humming sound from somewhere on board, just as the terminal lit up again, along with the rest of the ship. I flicked through the systems till I found the navigation suite, and opened it up. It showed a map of the galaxy, but there seemed to be some data missing. No systems had any information, surely we would've colonised other worlds in the last thousand years. Only one system seemed to have a flight plan to it, so I loaded it up and started the engines. Once I saw the moon moving on the rear view cameras I got up and made my way back to the med bay.

I entered to see a cryo tube being prepared. “What's going on?” The hologram turned from his terminal and looked to me.

“Well, the system you chose will take eighteen months to get to. We don't have enough supplies on board for you to survive that long, and you will need to be brought up to speed. This pod will also increase your muscle strength whilst inside. The computer will constantly feed you information as well. Now, climb in.”

Well, I had already been in for a thousand years, what was another eighteen months? “If you put me away for another millennium, I will find a way to hurt you.” The lid slid shut, and I felt a similar reaction as before, but this was more streamlined. I saw the lights dimming before closing my eyes.

“Seriously though, I get why the queen of the Changelings wanted to be with you, but how did you get someone as amazing as Cadance to marry you?” Her brother smiled down at her as his bride-to-be approached them.

“I told her she wouldn't just be gaining a husband, she'd be getting a pretty great sister, too.” She came alongside them, and Twilight stepped to the side, Celestia coming closer to the two ponies.

“Mares and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of the real Princess Mi Am ore Cadenza...”

“Princess Cadance is fine.”

“Hm. The union of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor. The strength of their commitment is clear. The power of their love, undeniable. May we have the rings please?” They were floated over, one given to each, and then placed on the others horn. “I now pronounce you mare and colt.” The crowd erupted into cheering as the bride and groom leant into a kiss. Celestia leant down towards Twilight. “ This is your victory as much as theirs. You persisted in the face of doubt, and your actions led to your being able to bring the real Princess Cadence back to us. Learning to trust your instincts is a valuable lesson to learn.” She turned her attention to the pegasus on her other side. “Rainbow Dash, that is your cue.”

“Huh? Oh yeah!” There was a blur of motion as she took off and flew towards the sky. There was a bright flash and an ever expanding rainbow as Shining Armour and his new wife Princess Cadence pulled away, smiling at each other.

The sensation of ants biting me was there again, but didn't last as long this time round. There was no water pooling at my feet, but I could see a dull orange glow to either side of me. I felt my blood pumping in to my limbs and slowly moved them. A green light shone down from above, drawing my attention. Looking up, I saw a release handle, so opened the pod, stumbling out to the floor. “Well, we have arrived on the outer edges of the system. I have also discovered an anomaly it your blood work.”

I turned to see the hologram stood next to me. “What kind of anomaly?”

“I'm not sure, it has something to do with your cure.” I raised my eyebrows at him. “I looked up your name in our records sergeant. You will need a booster every now and then, and I have created a serum that you will have to use once every two months. Now, head up to the bridge, the computer is ready to land.”

I pulled on a set of clothes and made my way to the control centre, again sitting in the centre chair. The computer lit up and I saw two trajectories. One was set towards a moon in orbit of a planet, the other was a slingshot orbit of said planet. Before I could do anything, I heard a nearby door slam shut, and watched as the centre view screen turned to the moon. The rest of the ship minus the flight deck and a little behind arced away to do an orbit. Why I didn't know, but it wasn't like I had time ask.

The moon got even closer, and it disappeared from view as we flared upwards. I felt a solid thump throughout the vessel, and got up to look out the window, seeing the moon's surface below me. I heard a door slide open to reveal what looked like a space suit. Shrugging, I went over to it and tapped the terminal on the wall, looking at the information about the suit.

Colossus-Xii Heavy Armour. Nano fibre weave for easy movement. Modified version with no shields to allow for lighter materials.

I pulled it put and began to put it on, smiling with satisfaction as each section seemed to self seal with the rest of the armour. I then removed it and put it back into stowage. No point wearing it before I need to, right?. Heading back to the computer, I noticed that the main ship would be back soon. I strapped myself back in to the seat feeling the ship take off again and head towards the planet, stopping about halfway.

“But... what do I do now? Is there a book about being a princess I should read?” Celestia giggled at her long time student, now a fellow princess.

“There will be time for all of that later.”

A few days later and Celestia was stood with Luna and Cadence to her side. The other bearers were lined up to the side, Twilights family on the other side, surrounded by a whole host of ponies. She stood straighter and addressed the crowd. “We are gathered here today in celebration of a momentous occasion. My most faithful student, Twilight Sparkle, has done many extraordinary things since she's lived in Ponyville.” She turned to look at the dark alicorn next to her.“She even helped reunite me with my sister, Princess Luna. But today, Twilight Sparkle did something extraordinary. She created new magic, proving without a doubt that she is ready to be crowned Equestria's newest princess. Fillies and gentlecolts, may I present for the very first time, Princess Twilight Sparkle!”

The doors swung upon, and Twilight came marching in, followed by four attendants and her current personal guard, all highly trained unicorns. She approached Celestia and stood before her. Spike came from the side, here Element tiara on a cushion. It was lifted in a gold aura of Celestia's magic and place upon Twilight's head. The four princess made their way to a balcony overlooking Canterlot Castle grounds, witch were packed to the brim with ponies.

Twilight smiled and waved awkwardly at them, unsure what to do. On seeing this, Celestia leant down to her. “Say something, princess.”

“Oh, um...” She cleared her throat and stepped to the edge of the balcony. “A little while ago, my teacher and mentor Princess Celestia sent me to live in Ponyville. She sent me to study friendship, which is something I didn't really care much about.” She turned to look at the others standing in the doorway. “But now, on a day like today, I can honestly say I wouldn't be standing here if it weren't for the friendships I've made with all of you.” She waved them forward, and the walked out on to the balcony. “Each one of you taught me something about friendship, and for that, I will always be grateful. Today, I consider myself the luckiest pony in Equestria. Thank you, friends. Thank you, everypony!”

I noticed the sun and moon at opposite sides of the view screens, moving at the same time... and both around the planet. “What the fuck? A planet that has it's sun orbit it? How the fuck does that work?”

A orange light flashed on the control panel, alerting me to the rest of the ship coming in. One of the screens flashed up and I saw the hologram appear. “Ah, you made it. Uh, I have some bad news, sergeant. It turns out that the Friendship was abandoned due to the fact it's re-entry programming was erroneous. It can't actually land, nor can it reconnect with the command module. The module is also not designed for re-entry without the rest of the ship. I'm not sure what to do.”

I closed my eyes for a few moments thinking things through. “Why can't we link back up?”

“The docking software for the command module does not exist, and the knowledge I have does not allow me to write it. Nor does the knowledge imprinted upon you whilst you were sleeping. That was part of the next set of lessons.” I tapped a few command and switch the module over to manual. “Sergeant, what are you doing?”

“Simple. We are going to reconnect manually. Shouldn't be too difficult.”

“But that will not wor...”

“Shut up and let me drive!” I turned my module around and saw lights moving in the direction of the moon, so I headed towards it. I saw I was approaching the front, so swung around and started to back in, keeping a close eye on the rear cameras. I was nearly in, about twenty metres to go, when an explosion rocked the docking port. I switched the camera back to the hologram. “What the fuck just happened?”

“I don't know how they did it, but some of the creatures from Terra made it on board! They started to attack everything the could. I think they were trying to get to the bridge, but that is now what you are on!” There was another explosion, larger than the last. The shock wave hit my module and sent it spinning out of control. In the flashing windows, I saw the rest of the ship exploding, and then it disappeared again. A image appeared on the terminal, showing our relative positions. I was on a trajectory to crash land somewhere in the northern region, but not sure where. The main ship was going to crash somewhere in a southern desert.

I managed to get control of the module and stop the spinning, but I was too deep in the planets gravity to try and pull away. I started to enter the atmosphere, seeing the heat build up around the windows. The computer flashed red, a single line of text on display.

Collision course.

I looked out the window and could just make out a large circular tower in the distance straight ahead of me. A second line of text followed the first.

Warning: collision will be fatal. Will need a triple serum boost to survive. Sorry, but this is the only way. EMH.

Three needles shot out on robotic arms. Two shot into my arms and emptied. The third aimed for my chest, and shot forward, pumping the liquid straight in to my heart. I felt it pumping through my veins, and the edges of my vision started to tint yellow...

“Good evening, princess.” Cadence turned her head to see who had spoke to her, but nopony was present. Returning her gaze to her front, she met with a set of deep cerulean eyes staring at her and jumped back a little, before realising who it was. She leant forward and kissed the pony before her.

“Good evening to you, my prince.” Shining Armour had a little laugh, this had always amused him. They made their way to the dining hall for their evening meal, when one of their aides came running up to them.

“Your majesties, we have an emergency! There is something burning in the night sky, heading this way, and moving very fast!” Before they could react, they felt an impact on the Crystal Castle. They ran to the window in time to see the flaming object spinning out of control and impacting the ground in the forest just outside the city limits.

“Guards!” Four of them came running to Shining Armour. “Find me the captain, arrange a containment team, and a medical one as well. We don't know what that was, but perhaps we can help if anything was in it.”

Author's Note

..............whoops. Things are about to go to hell. Or Tartarus. Depends on your species.

Chapter 14: Sunday, a day of rest. A morning of drinking. An afternoon of bad ides. (s)

I don't know if you've noticed, but I've added a tag to the story. If you don't want to read those bits, then hit ctl +f and search for 'Shining Armour carefully'. That'll take you to the next part.

“Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug!” The ponies in the bar were cheering for him. They may not have known what he was, but by Celestia he could put them away! The slamming down of the tankard signalled that the seventeenth round had ended, and the stallion opposite trudged away, tail tucked firmly between his legs in embarrassment. The cheering raised the roof as he still managed to stand and get another mug of cider. It was ten thirty on a Sunday morning.

A silenced hush crept towards the bar, as the ponies looked towards the door. The immediately dropped to their knees, bowing as Princesses Celestia and Cadence casually trotted over to the bar. He just sat there sipping his drinking, not even acknowledging their presence. “Well Cadence, I think we have found something to keep him in line. And I might have a drink as well.”

He whipped round at this and stared at her, leaning back against the bar. “Simple rules. First one to finish wins. Have to drink all of it, can't have no spills, or it's the hoover.”

“And what is this 'hoover', if you don't mind me asking?” He motioned behind them, where a couple of just coming of age colts were having a drinking contest between them. One faltered with his mug, and it spilt across the table top. All the ponies eyes turned to back to the bar, and Alec just shrugged his shoulders.

“Hoover.”

The crowd immediately started chanting. “Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover! Hoover!” The young colt looked at the princesses embarrassedly, before caving to peer pressure, and sucking up the spilt alcohol until the table was once again dry, gaining another rousing cheer from the crowd. They turned back to see a smirk on his face.

“That, your majesties, was a hoover. So, are you still game?” Celestia sat down next to him, a determined look in her eye.

“Yes, but I have one request. May I choose the drink?” He thought about this for a moment, before shrugging again and nodding. “Excellent! Barkeep, do you have any Dragon Liquor?” She heard a whisper from her side, something along the lines of 'not that stuff again.' The stallion's eyes widened. That drink had not been made in years, and he happened to have a few barrels from when his father had purchased them. He bent down and filled two mugs, the smell from the potent alcohol nearly getting Cadence drunk alone. The mugs were set down, and the crowd backed away as he took a small sniff.

“Holy shit, that is a strong drink! So, what's the winner get?”

“Winner? It is not merely for the honour of out drinking you?”

“Nope, got to be a prize. Mine has been another drink, since the first round. So, what's it going to be?”

“The loser has to... do whatever the winner asks them to do, no exceptions. Do we have a deal?”

“Sure. Okay guys, you know what to do!” The stallion's that surrounded him at first came closer, grins on their faces. They began a countdown.

“Five!”

“Four!” He gripped the mug whilst Celestia lit her horn.

“Three!” The raised the mugs to their mouths.

“Two!” Their eyes shut.

“One!” They put the mugs against their lower lips.

“And... Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug!” The race was on, and they seemed to be doing well. Before they knew it, he was on the floor out cold, with more than half the mug over him. Celestia slowly finished her serving and gently placed the mug down. Which, given how strong the liquor was, meant that she slammed it down so hard it dented the bar top and broke the mug. Cadence shook her head and leant towards the barkeep.

“I apologise for her, and his, behaviour and will ensure that you are compensated for any and all damages.” She turned to face the crowds. “And all of you!!! Drinking at this time of the morning! Why, if you were in the Guard, and my Shiny was still Captain, I dread to think what he would do to you!”

“Um... actually...” She turned to face the direction of the small voice, eyes going wide at the white unicorn stallion with an electric blue mane and shield for a cutie mark. “They are guards, and they are his escorts.”

“Drinking whilst on duty? I shall have no choice but to report you all the the Captain when I return to the castle!” The stallions looked at each other nervously, not meeting her gaze. She narrowed her eyes at them. “Where is he?” One stallion carefully lifted his hoof, and slowly pointed to the corner, where said captain was lying on his back across a bench, snoring, with drool and tongue hanging from his mouth. “I should not have even asked. Shining Armour, I will deal with you later.” His head slowly disappeared back amongst the crowd. “Guards!”

The doors slammed open and fifteen ponies entered, equal of all three pony races. “Yes, you majesty?”

“Dragon formation, if you please... again.” They nodded and split up, the five unicorns towards Celestia, who was swaying with some unknown breeze and her opponent, now tying to outdo the captain. The other ten made the others step back giving plenty of room. The unicorn's horns flashed, and they all disappeared, leaving a stunned silence in the bar, but not for long.

“So... Prince Armour... how are you going to handle a bucked off wife?” He made his way to the bar, and sat on a stool.

“Pretty simple, really. Barkeep, a shot of Dragon Liquor please.”

“So come on Luna! Spill! What was it like?”

“Dash! A lady does not kiss and tell! How would you react if somepony were to ask the same about you and Soarin?”

“I'd say that he's the best buck I've ever had, so awesome we created lightning and thunder last night!” The others mares mouths dropped open at her bluntness, whilst said stallion was trying to think of a way that wouldn't go any deeper into their activities. Fortunately, he had an unexpected ally.

“Thunderlane, what's 'buck' mean?” All eyes turned to the colt, who had been running round with the griffon chicks. They too seemed interested in the answer.

“Thanks Dash! Now you can tell them!”

“Fine, when two ponies love each other very much, and want to show it physically, the stallion's dick goes hard and he shoves it into the mares vaggmmmppphhh!” She looked down at her muzzle to see two blue hooves clamping it shut, and then up to see the very shocked eyes of Soarin, who shook his head. She really was blunt and to the point.

“I think maybe I should tell them, Dash.” She looked round a Twilight and relented, leaning against Soarin instead. “Now then, are you sure you want to know?” She received a nod in return, Gilda having already taken her chicks to safety. Twilight disappeared and reappeared very quickly, a book hovering next to her. “Okay then Rumble, we'll start with this book, 'Your body and you'. Come on. Let's go over to the corner so we can have some privacy.”

Everypony was watching the display, so had a shock when Cadence, a squad of guards, a tipsy Celestia, and a slumped human appeared in the throne room. Luna made to speak, but was cut off by Cadence's hoof. “Don't ask, it was Dragon Liquor. Now, I am going to take Celestia to her room so she can sober up. You can do what you want with him! I am then going to await the arrival of my husband.” With that, he was dumped to the floor but didn't wake, the guards following Cadence as she herded Celestia away. Twilight came over and stared at the heap on the ground.

“Well, he certainly knows how to enjoy himself.” Luna said nothing as she lifted him on to her back, and trotted out of the room. “I guess I'm in charge then?” Her hoof slammed to her face when she turned round from Rarity's shout.

“RUMBLE!!! Do not do that here! And not in front of other ponies, EVER!” The colt in the corner looked up confused, his wings spread out... and one of his fore hooves somewhere it shouldn't ever be in public.

It was very peaceful, walking through the woods. I could hear the sounds of animals at a distance, and some birds closer by. There wasn't anyone else around though, so I just kept going. I came across a small pool, being fed by a waterfall near some rocks in a wide clearing. I had been walking for hours, and was sweaty from the humidity. I stripped off my clothes and stepped into the water, finding it refreshingly cool. I swam around a few times, letting the water flow clean off my body. I finally made it to the waterfall, where there was a smooth surface under the water that I could stand on, my waist just below the water line.

I stepped into the downpour, letting it cascade and massage my back. I heard a splash from the other side of the pool, but didn't bother to open my eyes. I could hear something coming closer, and then wading across the rock. I felt hands join the water, kneading into my shoulders. I turned round to see Sarah, as naked as I was, her body glistening from the water as it traced her shape. I pulled her close and stared into her blue eyes, before leaning down and kissing her.

Luna was unsure about how to react. She had entered his dream to see what the dopey grin on his face was about, and had followed him through the woods, and into the pool. He seemed fine with her being there, and it brought heat to her cheeks as he kissed her. Once he finally pulled away, a look of shock crossed his features, before settling as a smile. His hand traced down her back, and gently squeezed her flank. She let out a shocked gasp, but she couldn't, and wouldn't tell him to stop.

I pulled away from Sarah, and found myself looking at Luna. It was a little worrying at first, but then I saw the same eyes, and I knew why I was drawn to her in the first place. She shared so many traits with Sarah, it was like she was reincarnated as a pony. But... I'm not a Buddhist, so I don't believe in that crap. I let my hand slide along her back, and gently squeezed her flank. She let out a gasp, but the smile on her face told me it was okay. I pulled her back for another kiss, her fore hooves wrapped around my neck. I felt her tongue push against my lips, and parted them to allow her entry... but not to let her win. She let out an annoyed growl at first, but once my other hand found it's destination, it turned into a purr instead.

She pulled away and gasped for breath whilst my fingers kept working at her, watching as her face scrunched up with pleasure. I removed my hands from her, getting an annoyed huff, and heading towards the shore. I sat on a rock just under the water line, enough to keep me hidden to prying eyes. I don't know how she did it, but Luna managed to sexy 'swim' towards me. I opened my arms eager to receive her, but she stopped short, dipping under the surface. I was confused at first, but then felt her lips around me. Her head popped out enough so that her nostrils were clear, and looked at me with eyes full of pleading.

I looked around to make sure we were alone, and then nodded to her. My eyes snapped shut with pleasure the moment she started. It was new, unique, and utterly terrifying. She could easily bite it off with those teeth, but instead they added to the pleasure. It didn't take long for me to build up, and I ran my hand through Luna's mane as she continued, her tongue doing things no human tongue could ever do. It wasn't long now, not long at all. “Luna.... I'm gonna...”

Her head started to bob even faster, he tongue moving up and down even more. My back arched as I finally released, my hand gripping her mane, and Luna stopped for a moment, but then carried on, getting every last drop. After tensing up so much, I fell back to the rock, utterly exhausted. Luna came out of the water and turned around, going to settle her back against me. I had other ideas, and slipped out of the way, letting her get in to nearly the same position I was. She looked at me very meekly, fore hooves pulled to her chest and rear legs crossed. I could see in her face she knew my intention, but she seemed not to want to do that.

She had just taken control, and now it was my turn. I didn't drop my gaze from her eyes as I placed my hands on her legs, and she bit her lip with anticipation as I pulled them apart. She tried to put them back, but I held them there, not allowing her to. Her wings were at full spread, and floated around in the water, as I lowered myself down to her marehood. Her eyes close as I got closer, and with one final look I dove in, feeling her legs tense as I held them there and traced her folds with my tongue. She was so wet, she was wetter than the water, and even with it covering my ears, I could hear her moans...

Luna could barely breath. She thought she'd do something nice for him, but surely she was receiving more pleasure from this! She briefly wondered why no stallion had done this with her before, but her mind shut down as his tongue made another pass, having already worked out her more stimulating areas. She wasn't going to last much longer, her breathing shallow, coming out with moans of pleasure, and her cheeks were burning. She longed to move her legs, wrap them around his head so he could not escape.

Instead he kept them there, squeezing them each time she tried to move. Her wings would not respond the her commands, and she desperately wanted to move them. Her whole body tensed and she ran her fore hooves through his hair as his tongue suddenly started to give the utmost attention to her clit. She was almost to the point of release, and the he pulled away. She felt him trying to get past her fore hooves, but there was not way she was letting him leave her like that! She allowed him to breath, and as he did so, he looked over her body, smiling at her condition.

She knew how she looked, and she didn't care, not with the way she was feeling right now. She gently raised a fore hoof and hooked it around his neck. And then shoved his head back down, where he immediately continued. It didn't take long for her to peak again, but this time he didn't stop. Luna's cries of ecstasy sent birds scattering for miles, and she had the feeling of flying through the air rush through her.

I slowly came awake on a really soft bed, and noticed a set of diaphanous dark blue curtains hanging from the canopy. So I was back in Luna's room? Last thing I remember was drinking with Celestia. With that realisation also came the fact that my crotch was wet. I tried to look, but then discovered Luna lying over me, her rear legs wrapped around my left leg, and her left fore leg draped across my chest. For some reason my left knee was soaking wet as well... “Fuck, that was a dream though, right?”

I remembered back to the conversation about my nightmares I had with Celestia, something being said about that realm belonging to Luna. Which meant that when she... and in the real world I... and then I... and she... I tried to gently place my hand between her legs, just to check, but her legs snapped shut and trapped it there. Now I couldn't remove it without waking her up. Fortunately I didn't have to, as she slowly stirred.

I closed my eyes again and pretended to be asleep, hearing her gasp when I felt a hoof go between her rear legs. “Oh my... that's never happened before.” I felt a hoof press gently down on my crotch. “Perhaps he was aware? No, I didn't give him any indication, he must not know.” So, she was in my dream? I felt her carefully extract herself, doing the utmost to not disturb me. I heard a door shut to the side, and then the sound of running water hit my ears. Should I? What would she do if I did? Would she take offence..or allow me to continue? Only one way to find out.

I got off the bed and stripped off, noticing that I was already at full attention. I made my way towards the running water, and opened the door. I could see Luna in the shower, steam billowing around her, and her mane was no longer floating, but hanging down around her neck. It then finally hit me. I no longer cared about the fact that she was a pony, and I was human. Right there, right then, she was the pinnacle of beauty. I placed my hand on her back, just above the wings, and she turned to look at me.

I just smiled and she looked down, then back to my face, her expression... would've made any stallion melt. Instead, I pushed her up against the wall, pressing in to her. Her rear legs wrapped around my waist, whilst her forelegs wrapped around my head, pulling me closer. I had initially intended to help her wash... but this was much more enjoyable.

Shining Armour carefully pushed open the door to his castle suite and stuck his head in. He saw Cadence asleep on the bed, and silently entered, shutting the door and sliding in behind her. He thought he had gotten away from it, until she rolled over to face him with angry eyes. Before she could say anything, he dove in for a passionate kiss, hoping that it would placate her. It seemed to work, and she gave a low purr, but then he realised something was very, very wrong. He pulled away and found himself not staring into those passionate purple eyes, but instead into luminous green insectoid ones. He leapt out of bed and lit his horn, staring angrily at the thing on his bed. “What the buck do you think you are doing here, Chrysalis?”

The green eyed Cadence slowly stood and walked towards him. As she did, a green flame swirled around her, revealing the changeling queen. “Aw, what's the matter? Am I not allowed to visit my favourite pony?” She added a pout to her question.

“I do not care if I am you favourite! I wish for you to leave right now!”

“Leave? But I was invited here! Not only to the castle, but to this room!”

“Who in their right mind would invite you here?”

“That would be me.” His eyes went wide as he recognised his wife's voice, and hi body refused his mind's commands to turn around. Unfortunately this proved to be his undoing, as a chair was thrust against his back, forcing him to sit in it. Chrysalis jumped into his lap and forced his fore hooves to the back of the chair, where Cadence was waiting. He felt rope go around his hooves, then across his chest, making sure he couldn't leave. Cadence finally came in front of him, and swapped places with Chrysalis. “Do you remember when we talked about our fantasies? What you admitted to? Well, after your disgraceful behaviour in the tavern, I thought I'd get my revenge, by going through with one of mine, one that I didn't tell you.”

He tried to imagine just what it was, and why it involved Chrysalis, but he couldn't think straight with Cadence stroking his cheek, and... something else. “So, we still got a deal?”

“Yes Chryssy, we do. You help me, and trust me, you'll get a whole lot of love energy.” Cadence got off his lap and laid down on the bed, the changeling joining her. “Okay, just like we agreed.” A swirling green flame surrounded her again, and she leant towards Cadence, who leant into the kiss herself. Shining found himself drooling, unable to look away, as his wife was making out... with his wife.

The ropes went taught as he longed to join them.

“Rainbow Dash, could you please explain why I have just delivered some red, green and clear glass, a whole reel of copper wire, and six magic batteries?”

“Any why I had to deliver a range of light weight but durable fabrics? And why he only accepted ones that match the Wonderbolts uniform?” She looked back and forth from Rarity and Twilight Sparkle, before turning her back them.

“Yes, I can explain that, but I'm not going to! It's a surprise, and he doesn't want anypony to know about it!”

“Then how come you and the others know?”

“Easy, because it involves us!” Rarity trotted past, and began nuzzling Thunderlane under the chin. The stallion stood like a statue from the glare Rainbow was giving him

“Thunderlane, darling, would you tell me what he's working on in there?” He refused to meet her gaze, and closed his eyes when she started to pout. It was time to pull out the next level of seduction, so she leant up to his ears and began whispering. “You know, I hear pegasi wings are quite sensitive, given the right stimulation. And I just happen to have read almost all books on the subject.” She gave his ear a quick nibble, and pulled away, before letting it go. His wings were at full mast.

“Okay! You Win! The thing he's working on will allow him to flooow!”

“Pinkie! I told ya before, that's stuff is supposed to stay at the shop!” Every set of eyes, including those of the princesses, and the guards, snapped round at Joe, who suddenly became very nervous. “Uh, I m-mean, Pinkie Pie, where did you get that whip from?”

“Well duh! I got it from your closet silly!” She turned back around after giving him a quick kiss. “And you mister! You Pinkie Promised! And nopony breaks a Pinkie Promise!”

Rarity turned back to Thunderlane. “Is this true? Did you Pinkie Promise not to tell us?” He nodded once. “Well... in that case, I suppose we can wait.” A flash from Celestia's horn caught their gaze, and she opened the scroll.

“Ah, he is ready! Come everypony, to the observatory. Mr Thunderlane, Miss Dash, I believe you know where to head?” The saluted and took off, head for a certain corridor.

“Uh Celestia, I thought he couldn't use magic?”

“He can't. Oh I forgot to tell you! He requested Spike's aid, so I sent a chariot for him. He is currently assisting Alec with his construction project.” Twilight slowed down, and once the crowd had passed, teleported into the makeshift workshop that had once been Luna's private library. There were bits of paper everywhere, scrunched up and thrown to the floor. But on the desk were six pristine pieces. Five of them had measurements of the Wonderbolts, and a strange altered uniform. She looked at the sixth and saw a similar design, but with his measurements. He couldn't fly, so why would he make this?

She teleported back to the group, who were just entering the observatory, and showed the design to Celestia. “You've got to stop him! What ever it is, he can't be allowed to do this!”

“It's okay Twilight, he knows what he is doing, and once I helped with the design, I knew I could trust him.”

“You helped him?”

“Yes, he would have asked you, but he said you still had to regain his full trust. I know you understand. Now come, lets us look upon the mountain.” The outer balcony of the observatory had changed a little. The was now an electronic telescope, hooked up to a screen. It was Luna's, so she flicked it on and followed the instructions from the note he gave her. The screen centred on her private balcony, and she could see shapes moving on it.

Six red lights and six green lights lit up, and were raised up as the shadows stood on the balcony. White lights appeared on them, five in the shape of ponies, and one in the shape of a human. They watched as he fell, calmly speeding to the ground, the Wonderbolts diving after him. They could see the lights shine on the mountain, and the pegasi trying to catch him. But then they slowed down, becoming an arrowhead formation behind him. He flipped over, allowing the lights to shine towards the castle.

Luna held her breath as he breached the point where Dash and Soarin had rescued him, see the red and green lights on him move away from his body. Instead of continuing to fall, he began to glide towards the towers, which they noted were lit up from spotlights on the ground. They'd have to talk to the guard about this. He hadn't slowed down, and began darting in and out of the towers, the pegasi following his every move. He managed to catch a thermal current, and used it to gain altitude, before again changing direction and heading towards to observatory.

The pegasi fell in behind him, and they saw the lights on his back reflect on their underside. They slowly went out, and the Wonderbolts shot forward, performing a fly past of the observatory, going around and over it. The ponies gathered watched as they we bathed in light from the trails of smoke, fire, thunder, lightning and rainbows.

They could just make him out, slowly floating down to their level. A couple of the spotlights in the garden highlighted him. There was some ropes coming from a harness around his chest, leading to a piece of fabric floating on the night sky. The ponies backed away as he got closer, with the exception of Luna, who was to astonished to move. She did step back from the edge when she noted he seemed to be aiming for her. He touched to floor of the balcony, and the fabric floated down as well. Once past him, the rest of the assembled ponies gasped, than started applauding as they saw him share a passionate kiss with Luna.

Author's Note

Damn, that's some strong booze!!! Anyone recognise it? And again, if the author that story happens across this one.......sorry.
Wonder what that was he made at the end. Any ideas?

Now, onto the dream. This was my first venture into the realm of 'clop'. I know I've hinted at it before, and this is still....softcore compared to some I have read. But I would like to know, for those of you that read that section, if I did it well at all?