The Shinobi in Equestria

The Gala has arrived

The waiting game was indeed what they had played. The Gala was to begin at dusk and Luna had been by Star’s side all day. They had tea whilst admiring Luna’s treasured items, becoming ever closer to each other. The two were quickly becoming inseparable, each sharing intimate moments such as each other’s first kisses, fights and childhoods, tears being shed and joyous embraces being had. The night was rapidly approaching and a slight itch could be felt in the back of Star’s head. He focused on it for a brief second before hearing a familiar, sweet voice wash through his thoughts.

“Dear, would you please meet me at the throne room’s steps? We need to start welcoming ponies to the Gala. Some arrive earlier than others.” Celestia’s voice rang heavenly inside his mind.

Luna must have picked up on this thought as she nodded knowingly and gave her shadow a loving kiss before he zipped away in a trail of light dust and wind.

The journey was short and Star soon found himself on the other side of the throne room doors. He felt for Celestia’s presence in his psyche and called forth.

“Celestia, I’m on the other side of the door. Do you want me to cause a slight scene with a drop in or just a sudden appearance?” He was thinking amusedly to his princess. She simply chuckled in thought and sent a warm glow that he could feel through his body, almost like he was witnessing her smile.

“I think we can afford to spruce the Gala up this early in the evening. A drop in would be interesting but you have already done it once, albeit in a more private setting. Nonetheless, a sudden appearance would certainly be a good show of ability to some ambassadors. I’ll ask for you to accompany me in a few minutes as I see the Gryphon ambassadors making their way up now.”

Star agreed and simply waited on the other side of the door and waited for a signal. Something that would alert him to be by Celestia’s side when she needed it.

A small chime rang in Star’s head and he heard a small squawk from the other side of the door. The ninja took it as his sign and ran as fast as he could through the door ,not even touching it as he ‘appeared’ next to the princess, on one knee and head bowed. Flits of panic were erupting at the front of the line as the Gryphons reared and cawed in fear as the princess’ new guardian made itself apparent and stood upright. The guardian stood with cowl below its face. The creature was bipedal and was dressed all in black with a billowing cape. It stood at about 5’10 and had an upright posture, almost perfect. This creature showed no hesitation even in the face of large creatures such as themselves. The Gryphons seemed rather full of themselves as they opened their beaks.

“I take it that you are the new protector of the princesses of Equestria then? I must say, I expected a more intimidating guard…and more of you at that.”

Star simply allowed his mouth so be seen as he smiled and raised the hood to reveal his blood coloured eyes which appeared to unsettle them greatly.

“I assure you that I will be all that they need for the meanwhile.”

The Gryphons let out a volley of jovial laughs as they all lowered their wings, simply nodding in approval.

“You got nerve kid, I’ll give you that.”

Star received a clawed pat on the back before they received the blessing of the princess and continued on into the throne room.

The next ambassadors were the reptilians, who were doubling for dragon kind. They seemed nice enough, if not a tad cold and calculating. They arrived and looked at the guard before giving small polite bows, receiving Celestia’s blessing and then moved past them without a single word.

“They were awfully quiet, dear. Was something wrong?” Star asked nervously, feeling as though he had insulted them in some way.

“It’s nothing my sweet; they are simply a very passive species. They do not seek trouble, akin to their dragon relatives. I’m sure that if the dragons did not insist they be the ambassadors for them then they wouldn’t even attend. “

Star shrugged and faced forward to greet the next in line which was the cat ambassador. She was a small, black furred bipedal feline caused his thoughts to stop. Her body was curved and slender, standing about half a foot under the shadow. Her face was soft and very easy to look at with large vibrant blue eyes that shimmered in the afternoon sun. Her nose was petite and moist, just like a cat that Star remembered. Her mouth was seemingly small until she smiled, revealing her teeth which were sharp beyond reasonable belief.

Star was a tad nervous as he shifted his stance before continuing his observations. The dress that she was wearing was a split dress that consisted of white and red fabric on either half of the dress. It tied round the waist and likely fastened up the back. The dress bulged slightly as Star’s eyes met her breasts. The woman was sporting a pair of bountiful breasts that hugged her dress firmly. A paw entered his view and a single clawed appendage pointed upwards, knowing that he was staring.

Caught red handed, or red pawed, Star returned his eyes to the ambassador’s. She simply giggled and purred slightly before standing before him and Celestia and gave a rather deep bow. Star could see clearly down her dress. She raised her head and smirked. She was doing this on purpose!

“Princess Celestia, it is an honour to be here. Thank you for inviting our race to attend.” Celestia simply smiled and nodded approvingly. She then turned to the bodyguard with inquisitive eyes and an almost sultry smile. She looked him up and down as if sizing him up.

“I wonder…” After a brief silence she did something unexpected.

“Let’s play…boy.” Star could barely catch the words before she ejected her claws and threw the appendage towards the shadows neck. The paw was stopped mid swipe by a hand that was deftly placed between the feline’s arm and Star’s jugular. The feline changed tack as she swung her arm back and instead, used the force to bring her opposite paw smashing into the shadows stomach, causing him to grimace.

Celestia stood in a shocked state, never seeing such audacity at an event before.

The shadow recovered by twisting a two fingered fist and applying it to cat’s side ribs. As the blow connected, she fell to one side with a grunt, allowing for Star to place his knee under her ribs and strike her neck which caused her to flip and land on her back. The cat coughed as she attempted to regain her footing and swept a leg behind Star’s heels, tripping him. As the shadow fell, the feline pounced on him and felt something bulge against her heat. The adorable guard was hard at the sight of her. She smiled knowingly as she raised her claws, ready to maim. Star saw her and threw his open palm at the center of her neck. The feline recoiled as the hit connected, finding it hard to breathe as her throat went into spasms. She clutched her neck and gasped for precious air as Star heaved her off of his frame and drew his weapon from his back. The sword lightly grazed the back of her palms, cutting open the skin on the back of her hands. The cat’s throat stopped pulsing erratically and allowed her to breathe normally again. With steel against her throat she looked up to the ninja that was now looming over her, red eyes piercing hers. A voice that stood cold as the grave reached her delicate ears.

“Yield.”

The cat looked slightly fearful before an apparent thought passed through her mind making her intake a breath sharply and….resumed her calm and sultry demeanour. She raised a paw and placed in on the back of the ninja’s sword hand. Star tried to shake her but she had a very strong grip. The ambassador moved her other paw above his sword hand and raised a claw. The claw fell into the flesh on the back of his hand as she mirrored the injuries she obtained on the backs of her paw. The shadow winced slightly as the incisions were made. The feline simply giggled lightly as the Shadow slowly backed off, hand bleeding and still keeping a cautious eye on her as she rose to her feet. She seemed awfully happy for some reason…

“Found you…” She purred, literally purred as she said those words. Star was confused to say the least. She had been the one that started attacking him and she had finished it by ‘marking’ him and simply smiling at him. It made no god damn sense!

“Sorry miss, but found who?” The ninja seemed awfully perturbed.

“You, silly boy…. You’re someone who could actually hold their own against me. I ain’t ever found someone like that before…till now.” She straightened up and sauntered on over and grabbed the shadow’s face and brought him close for a rather drawn out kiss in front of the princess herself.

The shadow was completely taken by surprise and attempted to move away in embarrassment but the embrace that he was found in was vice like. Her lips were indescribable. The way she played with his, pressing her tongue through them with little resistance. The two took on another battle of a more passionate kind, the tongues dancing for dominance. The kiss broke when the cat finally released a rather flustered Star and sauntered away before slipping past the two with a smile on her face. She turned to face her new ‘playmate’ and winked.

“I guess I’ll see you around boy.”

“Wait! I didn’t even catch your name or who you are.” Star blurted out before thinking.

The cat turned and smiled playfully.

“Ren’ze. But you can just call me Ze. ” She turned and continued without stopping. “As for you, boy, I already know you…Mr. Star…See you later tonight. Oh, and as for whom I am, you will have to work for that…”

Star stood there gobsmacked as the kitty strolled on by. She was good.

“Celestia, I don’t really know what to say about that….” A blush was playing furiously around Star’s face under his hood as the radiant mare simply smiled at her shadow.

“Then don’t say anything, my sweet. Equestria is all for open relationships and you should not feel embarrassed or ashamed to love and hold many close to your heart.” Celestia was still beaming lovingly at him, even after seeing another kiss her lover in front of her.

“I’m not sure that it’s love, dear, but….it’s something.”

The knowledge came as great news to Star. He had known that the princesses were a specialty due to them co-ruling the country. Twilight’s possible addition made his heart soar. The little nerdy mare was the first friend that he had in this strange world. She had offered to house him when he moved to Ponyville.

Caught up in the recollection of memories, star failed to notice Celestia who was staring at the bottom of the hall. At the entrance of the palace, stood six mares, all adorned in different gowns of sorts.

The 6 were his friends. They had arrived! Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie, and Applejack and…. Twilight. Star spoke up first with a radiant smile.

“Hey girls, it’s really nice to see you all again. You all look very beautiful”

Rarity, Fluttershy and Twilight all blushed furiously at his comment. The other girls simply smiled and Pinkie piped up.

“So Star, are you going to party with us tonight? I promise to make it even more super-duper special!”

Star laughed a bit as a muffled scream could be heard in the main hall and a cello screeched loudly.

“I think that I’ll try to make some time for each of you. I do have a duty to do and someone to see later on in the night as of recent events.”

Applejack looked at him with a curiosity after the last statement.

“What d’ya mean by ‘recent events’?”

Star simply smiled and blushed slightly. Ren’Ze had been on his mind since her little scene. How did she know his name and who was she really? He couldn’t deny that she left him desiring….something.

“It’s one of the guests AJ. She was…interesting to say the least.”

The girls gave Star a sarcastically judging look before they giggled and climbed the stairs with surprising grace considering all of the clothing they had on. Each greeted the princess and shared pleasantries such as talk of their dresses and other chatter. Twilight stopped next to Star and simply scooted closer to the human in an affectionate manner. The shadow looked down at her and smiled before lowering himself to her level. The two looked into each other’s eyes before locking lips briefly, each relishing in the reunion. The kiss ended and they slowly moved apart before meeting once more in an embrace.

“I missed you Twi.” Star whispered into the unicorn’s ear as he playfully flicked it.

“I missed you too. The library wasn’t really the same without you. I’ll talk to you later.”

The two parted ways with knowing nods as the guests continued to roll in like a river.

The day was meeting its end and Celestia had finally left the stairs to ascend to her balcony with her sister. The two moved the celestial beings before re-joining their subjects. Star was not far behind Celestia when she looked back with a smile.

“That’s the main part of your guard duty over Star.”

Star was rather surprised.

“Are you being serious? I thought I’d be with you or Luna almost all night.”

Celestia seemed to look at him with lidded eyes and a smirk.

“While I wouldn’t disapprove of that dear, you are your own stallion. Go and enjoy the party. We will call for you if we need you.”

With that, Celestia moved to hold her shadow in an embrace before she moved down the corridor towards the garden, swaying her flank as she walked, giving Star a full view under her dress. Luna was right about her!

Star thought it best to move to the garden too and see what was going down.

The garden was vast to say the least. There must have been at least 200 ponies in attendance at least. The fact that the other races were here and could fit was simply even more impressive. The party seemed to be going without a hitch! The princesses were conversing with some of the lizard ambassadors, Applejack had set up a stall attempting to sell her merchandise (he would need to visit her before the night grew late), Rarity was being nagged by the pompous prick that he had terrified the life out of earlier in the morning and Dash was sitting by a velvet rope which seemingly led to a VIP area. She was probably waiting for those stunt ponies that she liked…what was it? The Wonderbolts? That was it!

She was a true fan. Star chuckled as he looked around for the other girls. They weren’t in sight. Star thought he better get a better vantage point when he heard a shouting from the far corner of the garden.

“You are going to looooove meeee!”

It sounded, strangely, like Fluttershy. Star placed his previous idea to the back of his mind as he dashed towards the sound. As he shot past, party-goers clothing was ruffled and hair do’s were ruined as the artificial gust swept in the shadow’s aftermath.

Star arrived at what he thought the scene of the shout when he heard….panting and sniffling. He moved around a bush to find Fluttershy, staring at the floor…in tears. He walked slowly to her side and sat down next to her, gaining and ‘eep’ from the shy Pegasus.

“Hey Shy, what’s the matter?” Star questioned.

The yellow pony wiped slight tears from her eyes and looked from the floor to the guard next to her.

“*sniff* All the animals are running away from me…I just want to be friends with them.” The mare snuggled into the guard’s side as she cuddled him for comfort. Star returned the hug as he thought.

“Maybe you’re coming on too strong, eh? These animals probably don’t even see anypony most of the time and I’m sure that the party has them more riled than usual. Why, I’d bet that they would be more friendly if it was quieter.”

A thought popped into Star’s head as he looked up with an idea burning behind his eyes.

“Fluttershy…”

The Yellow mare looked up to him again.

“Y-Yes?”

“Follow me.”

Star led her with a hand on her back to a path that was blocked off by two guards. They stood slouched until they saw the Shadow and instantly stood to attention. The left guard spoke as he approached.

“Evening Star, what brings you here?” The human chuckled at how humble the guard was. He was glad that he called him ‘Star’ and not ‘Sir’. The honorific made him feel queasy. He wasn’t a leader.

“I’m taking my friend to see the Moon Pool if that’s ok?”

The right guard joined in with a smile.

“I don’t see why that should be a problem if the highest ranking guard is taking her. Just make sure to not mess with the pool. It’s Princess Luna’s favourite feature.”

“I’ll make sure that it stays in one piece guards. Thank you.”

With that the guards allowed them to pass, Fluttershy not able to meet the guards eyes as she scooted by.

The path was short yet as they walked, they found that the noise of the party was becoming less and less. At the end of the walk, the party could have been almost non-existent. The area in front of them was…quiet. The Moon Pool sat silent as always, the water the same colour as the void that was in between each star in the sky.

Fluttershy looked around and began to smile. All of the animals that she had ‘scared’ had amassed near the pool, all lightly chattering and squeaking. The Pegasus slowly approached and lowered her head, catching the attention of the small pack of animals. They gazed at her with a wave of curious eyes. She moved one hoof out as if to offer her friendship. A small grey bird hopped forward cautiously and looked at her. She simply smiled at it and nodded.

The bird moved to her hoof and moved its head onto its side and placed it on her hoof. A small noise could be heard as Shy smiled the wider than Pinkie did.

‘Squee~’

The yellow mare turned to the shadow and shed a tear.

“Thank you Star. You helped me make a lot of friends tonight.”

She moved towards him and stood on her hind legs before planting a kiss on his cheek. Star blushed as he moved a hand to cover the attacked area. It was sweet…

“It’s no problem Shy, I’ll tell the guards to let you in here whenever you feel like it.”

With goodbyes said and guards informed, Star strolled back to the center of the garden and heard something earth shaking…

*GRRRRLLLLL!!!*

Star looked for what caused the noise when he heard it again and looked down.

*GRRRRLLLLL!!!*

It was his stomach…

“Time for a visit to AJ, I believe.”

The walk was short and uneventful. Star’s eyes soon fell on Applejack’s cart which was laden with bountiful amounts of goods related to her namesake. The mare perked up as soon as he fell in her sight.

“Well howdy Star! Can I get you anything?”

Star looked at her with a smile and started looking over all the goods and began to salivate as he eyed the fruity goods.

“I…..I don’t think that I have the payment for any of this.”

The orange mare chuckled at him.

“Aw shucks Star; I know you’d pay me back eventually.”

The shadow simply shook his head.

“No dear I wouldn’t feel right until I did.”

Star looked at the party then the stall.

“How are sales tonight?”

“They ain’t doin so good Star. Nopony seems to wanna buy from me…”

They weren’t even giving her a chance, too full of their images to be seen eating ‘commoner food’. The orange mare was looking at her products with a sullen face. The sight made Star feel horrible. He started pacing a bit, moving back and forth in an attempt to surface an idea. A buoy broke water in the ocean of his mind as an idea came to life in his head.

“If I could get the sales running in, could I have a few apples?” Star smirked as Applejack’s face lifted.

“Ah think that a few apples could slide in the flurry of sales…that is if you get results.” The orange mare was now mirroring the Shadow’s signature facial feature. He laughed and searched for Luna’s presence in the crowd. A small chime appeared in his head and he felt a warm embrace around his nape. A Starred mane was draped over one shoulder as he looked to his side to find Luna slightly above him. She grinned and nuzzled Star’s cheek.

“You called, Star?

“I did. Luna, would you perhaps care for an apple? Applejack’s family make the best in all Equestria, I promise.”

Luna stopped her cute assault on Star’s cheek and looked towards all of the treats that lay before her.

“I think that would hit the spot right now. All this talking with the feline ambassadors is taking its toll on my stomach. They all seem rather bored. Well…except one. She was smiling from ear to ear for some reason…”

Star’s face felt like it caught fire. He could place bits on which it was. A quick look around showed that she was nowhere in sight, which was followed by a disheartening sigh.

Luna looked at him before shaking her head and choosing some treats. She looked over at the stall and lifted two apples, both red and shining with a furious luster. As she placed the two of them in Star’s dextrous hands, she dispensed 2 gold bits on the counter. Applejack looked in astonishment.

“B-But Princess…the apples only cost 10 copper bits!”

Luna giggled and Star smiled as a crowd gathered at the announcement.

“Miss Applejack, I paid what I thought the apples were worth. In fact, how would your family like to be the royal suppliers for Canterlot Castle?”

Star laughed as Applejack’s bottom jaw hit the floor, helped along with gasps from the crowd.

“W-We……We would be honored Princess.”

Voices called from the back of the crowd that had gathered, clearly sucking up after the princess had bought.

“50 silver bits for the pie!”

“75 silver bits for the fritters!”

Applejack looked at Star for one last time.

“You know what; take as many as you like fella.” A smile sealed the deal.

“I might just take you up on that.”

Luna and Star walked away from the encroaching horde as bits and apples flew around in a desperate clamber for the princess worthy food.

The two ate their snacks as the moved inside, sharing stories from the night so far.

“That was really nice what you did just then.”

Luna smiled.

“For the last few Nightmare Nights, their family has been providing the apples for my games. They are the best I have ever tasted. It only seemed fair.”

Star’s brain took a wander as he walked and, however much he tried was still concerned with the head-turning feline that had been a combatant to him. The woman looked like she was always calm and well-kept. Worst of all was two things. One, he could not stop thinking about her. The mystery was almost unbearable. Two…

He hadn’t seen her all night.

It panicked him a little bit. To know that such a formidable ‘foe’ was lurking at the party. She could have been anywhere.

The thought stopped in its tracks when the music screeched and distorted. Star looked ahead to see Pinkie dancing like a lunatic, being her usual self. The sight put the ninja in one hell of a jovial mood. It’s what she does after all. The nobles however…were not so happy. The nobles were uproarious to her antics. The pink mare stopped dancing and faced the crowd that had gathered.

“What kind of party do you think this is?!”

“Are you bereft of mind?”

“The poor Orchestra…”

The crowd was nothing but negativity! Pinkie looked out to the crowd and saw all of the unhappy faces. It broke her heart. The party mare’s hair began to deflate has she was met with a wall of scorn. The tears were building in her eyes as the archaic room continued.

“Luna…I’ll be right back…” Anger flew subtly through Star’s teeth.

He had seen quite enough! A blast of force cracked its way across the floor as he cut through the crowd. He landed in front of Pinkie and held out a hand with a soft smile. Pinkie looked up with red eyes to see the ninja smiling.

He was her friend. She sniffled and held out her hoof. The shadow took it in hand and with an earth shattering dash, he and the weeping party pony were gone.

A few rooms away, a crack of air split the silence as the two arrived. Pinkie landed safely astride Star, who held her close as if to shield her. The mare walked a few steps away before turning.

“I thought that they would like to party…but they don’t. It’s as if they don’t like being happy!”

She continued her sniffling as a new wave of tears stung her cheeks. Star simply gave a weak smile. He wasn’t sure how to cheer her up. It wasn’t that the nobles couldn’t be happy, it was just that they had a differ….

*DING*

“…ent Perspective of fun…” Star finished his thought verbally. He turned to Pinkie with his revelation.

“Pinkie?”

The teary-eyed mare turned to the shadow.

“What?”

“It’s not that they can’t be happy. It’s just that they have a different perspective of fun!”

Pinkie was confused.

“What do you mean?”

Star started smiling more and more as the answer left his mouth.

“If you remember when you held a birthday for Pound and Pumpkin cake, the party was nice and quiet with games for the kids, right? Well the nobles are similar. Your party techniques just need to be edited for them!”

“Well…..what do they like?”

Star thought good and hard. The Gala had been prepped for such and occasion. It was littered with art, fashion and…..dancing.

Star looked towards Pinkie who was giving him an inquisitive eye.

“Hey Pinkie, do you like dancing?”

The mare’s mane was instantly at full volume as it sprung to life. The tears were now a distant memory.

“DANCING?! I love dancing!”

“Yes, well so do nobles…”

“But I was dancing in the hall….they didn’t seem to be enjoying it then…”

“It’s not their style of dance Pinkie. I’ll bet that they prefer a more slow and….debonair kind of dance.”

The fuzzy pony cocked her head and smiled.

“Do you know a slow dance, Star?”

“Erm…..kind of. When I was young, we had a small ball like party to show us what the feudal lords did at such events. It was the most expensive event we ever had and only happened about 3 times in my life there.”

Pinkie stood and lightly trotted between each hoof awkwardly as a small blush appeared on her face.

“Could…could you teach me?”

Star approached the pink party mare and offered his hand.

“I’d be happy to.”

The throne room was quiet after Star and Pinkie’s disappearance. Luna looked around and saw no sign of either of them.

“I hope that they are alright. She did seem very upset…”

Another crack could be heard as the shadow and party pony appeared back on the throne room floor, just below the band. Star looked up to Luna and gave her a wink before turning to the orchestra.

“Ok guys, I know that you and Pinkie may have gotten off on the wrong foot but I wanna help set things right. Can you play us a nice slow song? Something for a dance that is more…..’Stuck up noble friendly’.”

The orchestra’s Cellist laughed before nodding. Star smiled and headed back to Pinkie.

“Ready Pinkie?”

She looked up to Star with a joyous grin.

“Whenever you are!”

The two held each other, with Star taking a hoof in hand as Pinkie stood on her hind legs. The spare hoof and hand found the opposite partner’s lower back.

The music slowly began with a slow drawn out violin. Star took the lead and stepped to his left with Pinkie’s leg close behind. The dance began as the following steps brought the two into a waltz that left the crowd speechless. Pinkie couldn’t stop smiling as the noble began to stomp quietly, giving approval whilst not interfering with the music. The dance became more intricate as time went on, with dips and spins being incorporated whenever the music turned a corner.

Luna sat in the back of the crowd, looking at her shadow dance. He was incredibly graceful as he moved. The way he led Pinkie was incredible, especially so considering that it was most probably a human dance.

The song came to a close with a heavy gong from a pair of cymbals. The two finished the dance with Pinkie being raised in the air by Star where she stayed for a few seconds, basking in the shouts and applause.

“They loved us! Star, they loved us!”

“No Pinkie, they loved you!”

The tears couldn’t be stopped even if the wanted them to. She dropped down and hugged Star In the mid-section, squeezing the damn life out of him.

“Thank you Star…”

“No problem Pinkie. It’s always a pleasure to help.”

The crowd broke up slowly and Star moved towards the side of the throne room to take a breather.

An empty bench was a sight for sore legs as Star made for it. Sitting down, he began to relax. Nothing was really thrown askew so far and he had been able to spend time with almost all his friends.

Speaking of friends, the VIP area was in sight and Dash was still sat outside. Only this time, she was talking to an orange mare that was wearing a sky blue bodysuit. It must be a stunt-mare from the team that she liked so much. They seemed to be getting on an awful lot, considering the amount of laughter that was going on between them.

Dash couldn’t believe it! She was talking to THE Spitfire, captain of the Wonderbolts! She had an internal Squee as another chuckle escaped both of their lips.

“It’s nice to talk to some fans some time instead of some press, you know?” Spitfire was smiling at the Pegasus as she sat there just glad to be in the same room as her idol.

A rumbling and shouting could be heard from the front gates. Star looked towards the entrance of the throne room to see a myriad of ponies with various sized….cameras?

“Paparazzi!” Spitfire yelled. She turned to face the far side of the throne room.

“Soarin! Scoff that pie in the VIP section, we gotta move!” Spitfire turned to Dash with a small smile.

“Sorry kid but we don’t need to be pestered by the press. We came here to relax. If you get in the VIP, come find us. I’ll save ya a seat.”

Dash’s ears drooped at the news but she nodded with a half-smile.

Star looked over at the crowd of press ponies.

“Geez, lots of people want to talk to the Wonderbolts apparently. I wonder if there is a rumour going around….”

He looked from the group to Dash who was sat on the outside of the VIP looking grumpy. Who could blame her? She just lost her chance to talk with her idols. Anyone would feel the same.

“Let’s pull some more strings, buddy.” With the self-remark made, Star moved towards Rainbow Dash with a grin.

“Hey Dash, Watcha doin’?”

Dash looked at him with a annoyed expression that softened when she saw Star. It wasn’t his fault that she was upset.

“The press scared off the Wonderbolts. They hid in the VIP section and I can’t get in…celebs only or something.”

“Weeeelllll……wanna crash the gate? I am the guard to the princesses you know? Got a few strings I could pull.”

Star would forever remember the face that she pulled. A mix of confusion and elation together.

“REALLY?! That would be so awesome! Oh please please please please!”

They both laughed uproariously.

“Hold on Dash.”

Star sent out a psychic pulse, looking for a certain someone. A tap on the shoulder a moment later followed by a warm hug informed him that said pony had arrived.

“What did you need sweetie? Has someone done something interesting?” Celestia was standing behind Star getting laughs from her shadow and Dash.

“Nothing other than mine and Pinkie’s dance really. I was hoping you could help me and mainly Dash with something. We need to get into the VIP room.”

Celestia raised one eyebrow with a smirk.

“you want to get into an area that is reserved especially for the celebrities so they can attempt to not be pestered by the press, PR agencies and fans?”

Dash and Star both shot their most exaggerated smiles, hoping for a positive response. Celestia had adorned a malicious look on her face.

“Ok, I’ll get you in…on one condition.”

Dash cocked her head to one side.

“What Princess?”

Celestia pointed towards Star with a sultry smile.

“Star will have to owe me one favour, whatever I ask and whenever I ask of it.”

An audible gulp could be heard as Star saw a flicker in Celestia’s eyes, sensing Molly was listening in. Star started turning red.

“When you say whatever you ask….you mea-“

“Whatever I ask Astartes…”

The red blush was now becoming white as Star contemplated what Celestia (or Molly) would ask of…It brought him shudders of fear and arousal at the same time. He looked at Rainbow Dash who was simply looking up at him with eyes that could probably beat Twilight’s puppy dog eyes.

“Erm……d-deal…”

Dash jumped for joy as Celestia mouthed ‘You’re mine now’ to Star. Star felt a twitch in his member as Celestia took on a more professional demeanour to hide her smirking. She approached the guard in front of the entrance to the VIP area.

“Guard, these two are to be treat as VIP’s for the rest of the eve.”

The guard gave a salute to his Princess before unclipping the velvet rope, allowing Star and Dash access to the area. Star turned around to see the flicker in Celestia’s eyes again along with a blown kiss. She sauntered away with an extra swing in her step, now having one up on her mate.

Star turned back around to find Dash gone, lost to the crowd of Celebs. People gave him strange glances. Apparently he was still a commodity here. A light purple unicorn moved on over to the shadow, obviously wanting to make his acquaintance.

“Ah, you must be the new guard for the princess. Mr. Star is it?”

“Yes it is miss…”

“Sparkle, Mr. Star, Velvet Sparkle. I’m an author.”

Sparkle…Could she be related to Twilight?

“Excuse me Miss Sparkle but are you in anyway related to Twilight Sparkle?”

Velvet smiled at hearing the name. She slightly puffed her chest out in pride.

“Yes, I’m her mother. How do you know her?”

He returned the smile. It was nice to meet Twilight’s mother.

“I have lived with your daughter ever since I arrived in this world. She invited me to live in Ponyville until I took the position of shadow. I plan on moving back after the Gala, seeing as I can be in Canterlot whenever I’m needed.”

“You live with my daughter? Is she still sticking her nose in books? Not that I blame her mind you.”

“Miss Sparkle, you would not believe the number per day if I told you…”

The two of them shared a jovial chuckle.

“Well it’s nice to see that she hasn’t changed. I haven’t seen her tonight but I’ll catch her before the night is out. It has been too long since I saw her and it would be nice to catch up with her. She doesn’t come home as much as Shining and Cadence.”

Shining was Twilight’s brother? You learn something new every day apparently.

“Well it was nice meeting you Velvet. If I see Twilight, I’ll be sure to let her know that you are here.”

With a goodbye said, Star looked for the troublesome mare that cost him a favour to a teasing Alicorn. He caught a glimpse of a rainbow mane deep in the crowd and saw Dash sat with the Wonderbolts, talking like she was one of their own. It was probably best to leave them to it; she may not get another chance at it after all.

Star left the VIP area and moved back to the garden. The night was getting late and the weather was still perfect, though with a slight chill to the wind. Star had seen almost every one of his friends, only Twilight and Rarity to go. He set off to find one or the other.

It didn’t take long to hear sighs and grumbling from a certain pearl unicorn. Rarity was with Blueblood again this Gala, being far too generous even for herself. She had put up with it last time as she had done this time and it was driving her insane! This narcissistic oaf would not shut up about himself and how posh and regal he was. How he was a valiant warrior who had slain hundreds of Dragons for maidens such as herself.

Rarity needed a nice hard wall to beat her skull into. Anything that would shut this stallion up would be a blessing!

Star was watching with interest at the garden scene. Rarity was going to tear her hair sprayed mane out at this rate. He needed an entry that would top his last if this was going to work. And he knew just who to get the supplies from. He set a course for a certain stall….

Rarity was sitting on a bench beside Blueblood who was eating a plate of caviar, all whilst talking about his latest ‘ventures’ to lost ruins that even Celestia and Luna did not know of. This was getting too much for the ivory mare to take. Soon she would have to be led away in a strait jacket.

“I hope someone saves me…” she silently wished.

“Heads up!” A voice cried out, causing both Blueblood and Rarity to turn to their left. Blueblood’s eyes flew wide as a projectile hit him smack bang in the center of his muzzle.

A pie. It was apple pie to be exact.

Rarity was sniggering in a very un-ladylike manner as Blueblood wiped the apple from his face.

“Show yourself you cowa-“

*SPLAT*

Another landed perfectly in the center of his face from out of nowhere. Rarity was now in silent tears as she was desperately clinging to her noble performance, secretly hoping for another pie to rocket Blueblood’s way.

Her wish was granted as another hit him square in his mane, ruining his hair and covering his clothes. The unicorn mare had completely lost it at the sight of the prince’s state.

The stallion was really losing his patience by now. The onslaught of pies was causing no shortage of discomfort and annoyance.

“WHO GOES THERE?!”

A familiar voice appeared to ring behind him, still as cold as the first time that he had heard it.

“Me…”

“AAAHHHHHHH!”

Blueblood turned to be met with another two pies which hit both the back of his head and the front.

“Who are you?!”

“I’m Ba-“Oh sod it, he had already come this far and it seemed the perfect moment. Star took in a lungful of air as Blueblood wiped apple from is eyes.

“I’M THE MOTHER-BUCKING BATMAN!”

A moment of silence later saw a flash and flying piece of apple goop as the stallion teleported away.

Rarity could finally embrace the hilarity of recent events now that the imbecile was gone. She clutched her sides as she practically screamed in laughter.

“That…that AAAHAHAHAHA…..Was BRILLIANT!” She could barely contain herself.

Star simply walked over and put his pie down as he sat on a nearby bench. Rarity soon joined him. She finally stopped cawing like a mad mare and regained control over herself.

“Star, you don’t know how happy I am that you did that. That twit was really chafing my patience. I tried to be nice and give him a chance to prove that he was caring but he just isn’t.”

“I know Rarity. I actually terrified him this morning on orders of the princesses. You should have been there. He fainted!”

More laughter ensued. The two finally got up and embraced in a friendly hug before walking to the center of the garden party. Rarity left with some stallion called ‘fancy pants’. Star had to stop himself from giggling as he handed her over.

The night was becoming late and Star decided to get a vantage point of the garden in hopes of finding Twilight. The trip to the top of the garden entrance of the castle, which was much lower than the throne room but high enough that no one would pay him any mind should they ever manage to spot him.

The party was almost at an end and he had not seen Ren’Ze all night. She was the main woman that Star had wanted to find. Mainly because it felt like she was hiding from him but then again, it felt the same with Twilight. Maybe she had already left.

Star looked at the wounds on the back of his hands and saw the injuries that Ze had inflicted. He wanted to know what they meant. He wanted to get to know her. She was intriguing to say the least. He sighed at the missed opportunity.

“Oh well…”

“Oh well what boy?” Star froze, half in fear and half in happiness. He hadn’t heard a single noise…but he had heard a wonderfully silken voice call him. Who else would be up here?

Star was about to turn when he felt arms rush under his and embrace him. He felt soft breasts on his back and a warm breath on his neck.

“Ze, how did you know I was up here?”

A small chuckle could be heard.

“I always knew where you were Star. I was following you for a while. You get up to some interesting things for being a guard. You have barely been around the princesses all night. How would you know if they were in danger?”

Star was about to answer truthfully but stopped himself. He barely knew this woman. She could have been anything without his knowing.

“I’m sure that word would have gotten to me if they needed me.”

The hug that Star was in tightened, pulling him closer towards the cat. Ze smiled as she nuzzled his neck with her soft cheek.

“You are a terrible liar boy. I bet you have a telekinetic link with them of some sort. And with the distance you have been from them, I bet you can teleport or something akin to it.”

She struck the nail right on the head.

“You must have a lot of experience with lying Ze.”

She laughed louder than he expected.

“You have to when you are in my profession.”

“And what profession would that be?”

Ze slowly released her arms from around Star, allowing the freedom to turn around. As he turned around, a dark blur tackled him across the roof, landing with a thud near the edge. On top of him was his feline friend who was smirking with lidded eyes.

“I don’t think that information can be so easily bought boy. Do you have something worth trading?”

Star cast his own smirk.

“What would you want for such information?”

Ze laughed before smiling in full, presenting all her sharp teeth. Star felt quite nervous under the cat.

“I think that a kiss would do boy. I loved our last and I didn’t get enough time to truly sample you.”

“I could do that. You did surprise me earlier.”

“It wasn’t part of the plan until you laid me under you. I felt such a rush! It was such a turn on.”

Star blushed as he felt his cock twitch under Ze’s heat. She would have totally felt that!

“Well…getting hot and bothered are we? Let’s just kiss for now. We don’t want to rush things.”

Ze and Star both laughed quietly as they both moved towards each other. Ze held Star’s hands over the edge of the roof and lowered herself so her breasts were pressing on the shadow’s chest. The two leant in and locked lips in another passionate fight. The kiss flustered the ninja and feline as both tongues fought each other for dominance. They danced with each other for what seemed like hours, paws starting to roam over the guard’s chest, feeling his muscles and form. Star was looking to the closed eyes of Ze. This woman was truly something. He definitely felt for her. It was something fierce too. It felt almost like the love he had for Celestia, Luna and Twilight but with a more dangerous side. The kiss slowly came to an end as both parties left each other in a dreamy like state with dopey smiles pasted on both of their faces. Ze smiled and moved a claw up Star’s face. She whispered in the calmest voice she could muster.

“I’m an Assassin, boy.”

Silence….

“………”

Ze laughed rather loudly.

“You think that I’m here for you or your friends don’t you?”

The thought was definitely there! Being an Assassin would explain the move set.

“Well…” Star slowly began to smirk. “It would explain the poison that you have in the pellet behind your top left canine.”

Ze was pleasantly surprised at the news.

“You found that did you?”

“Yeah and I also found the knife you hid on your thigh too because it’s now stabbing me slightly.”

Both laughed, Star’s laugh laced with nervousness.

“Star, do not worry. I’m not here to kill you or your friends. Even your lovers aren’t on my list. I was here to get information on a Gryphon ambassador. “

Star was hyperventilating with relief on the inside as the news rolled off her tongue.

“You know that with this information, I should arrest or kill you, right?”

Ze moved in for another kiss. The lips met in a series of brief kisses.

“Yes…but….I…bet…you….won’t.”

Star cocked his head to one side.

“And why is that my dear?”

Ze rubbed his cheek with a paw once more, now far more lovingly.

“Because I have come to like you and you have come to like me. You’re fun to be with, boy.”

While it was a bit embarrassing to have it said so vocal but it was true. This woman was crafty and an Interesting tease that he had come to enjoy all too much.

“That’s true to a ‘T’ Ze. So what will you do now?”

Ze leapt up from lying on her ‘playmate’ and skipped to the edge of the building.

“I think I’m going to steal some rich people’s money and go to Canterlot for a bit. I might come and visit you some time in…Ponyville is it? I could never go without seeing my favourite guard now could I?”

Star felt a blush on his face.

Just before Ze jumped, she turned with a smirk.

“Oh, before I go I would just like to say thanks you for the darts.”

Darts? Star felt for his pocket darts and found most of them missing. He’d been robbed!

“You thief!” Star joked.

“What can I say? I’m a regular cat burglar.”

Palm met face at the awful pun. Star looked up with a calm expression and simply smiled.

“It’s ok I suppose…especially when I got this in return.”

Star pulled a very ornate dagger from his sleeve. It was a shining steel blade with a gold and jade handle and pummel.

“Hey!”

Ze placed her hand up her dress to the leather holster that the dagger had been in to find it as indeed, empty.

“See you around Ze.” Star chuckled as Ze blew him a kiss.

“I will be back for that someday, boy.” Ze leapt from the roof and landed in the garden with a light thump. She quickly adjusted herself and moved to a crowd, no doubt to pilfer pockets and receive riches.

The night was rolling to an end and parties were leaving left right and center. One thing had been clear all night. Twilight had not been seen at all. What is Ze was lying? What if she had killed Twi?! A cold panic set over Star at the thought of finding Twilight dead somewhere.

Star leapt from the roof and landed on the soft, well-trimmed grass of the garden. Where could she be? Her old room? The Ballroom? He needed answers. Star thought he should see the other five.

Dash, Rarity, Pinkie, Fluttershy and Applejack were all waiting just outside, carriage waiting when Star came bolting out the front door of the castle. He began to slide as he quelled his speed and came to a firm stop in front of all the mares.

“Have you guys seen Twilight? I can’t seem to find her.”

Rarity gasped as the others all gave a look of surprise. Shy stuttered something awful at the news.

“M-May-Maybe she went to see her mother? Dash told me that Miss Velvet was here.”

That could explain it, but none of her closest friends had seen spit of her all night. Star was panicking even more. His mind wandered to the worst possible situations. He shook all of the thoughts from his head as he thought of someone who could definitely help. He looked around and felt for a presence. The familiar warm glow entered his mind and A white Alicorn appeared in front of the group.

“Star, what is it? You seem troubled…”

“We can’t find Twilight. She hasn’t been seen all night.”

Celestia laughed before embracing her shadow.

“You care so much, don’t you? Well I have a good idea as to where she is. Follow me.”

Star and company followed behind the towering Alicorn, taking turns and twists through the labyrinth of the castle. Celestia led the group to……the royal library.

*SMACK x6*

Star face-palmed and the other five mares face-hoofed. Where else would the librarian be?

“I’ll bet she is reading like she used to when she learnt here at the castle.” Celestia moved to the door and opened it. The door came ajar with a loud creaking as light fell into the chamber. There was a table inside with a candle, burning at the stub. The table was surrounded on all sides by a gargantuan wall of books. Almost as tall as the princesses towers.
On the table was a familiar purple unicorn, snoring cutely into a book like Star had found her so many times at home. He smiled and moved over to the desk, kneeling down to the sleeping mares eye level before planting a kiss on her nose. A shuffle could be seen as Twilight made to scratch the irritation. Star chuckled as the other girls looked on with smiles adorning their faces.

Another kiss found Twilight’s cute nose and she made more of a move, now slowly moving her head up as she awoke, eyes hazy from the sleep. She opened them to see the human staring her in the face. She gathered magic in her horn and pulled the Shadow over the desk and into her hooves. She hugged him for all she was worth. Star was being lovingly snapped in half. He simply returned the hug with fervor. The two smiled at each other as the locked lips, enjoying the moment. A collection of ‘aws’ could be heard from around them.

“You ready to go Twi?” Star let her go as she rose from her chair.

“I don’t know. I’d rather stay the night with you if that’s ok.”

Star smiled brilliantly.

“I’d like that.” Star moved into to whisper in Twilight’s ear. “I am very tired right now however, so it will be just sleep.”

Twilight blushed at the accusation. Not that she would have been pushing the idea but….

“OK! We’ll get going now so we’ll catch you love birds tomorrow.” Pinkie bounded out the library with the others all left in bewilderment. The thought was quickly run against the expectations of pinkie and everyone shrugged. The group soon left with hugs and goodbyes said and done. Celestia had hugged her lover for one last time that night before she went to bed for the remainder of the night. Luna had not been seen since the incident with Pinkie and she was most likely patrolling Equestria. Ze was happily living the night life of Canterlot and Star……Star was going to bed.

With the mare he’d waited all week to be with.

The two arrived at the room that they had first met in. Star entered first and held the door open for Twilight and she nodded her head slightly before entering. The room had been cleaned since his last use of it the previous morning. He began to undress on the journey to the bed, soon being in nothing but his boxers. Twilight simply sat down on the bed and waited for Star to join her.

Star removed all his weapons, including the one that he had gained from Ze which was truly beautiful. Shame he lost his darts.

The journey to bed was quick and soon Star found himself being big spoon to Twilight.

With one arm draped over her, they both sighed peacefully before giving in to the silent contentment of the night.

Author's Note

Tada! Another exciting [and painfully long] chapter!

I finally got to add Ze to my story! I was hoping for it to be a kind of 'Sherlock Holmes and Irene Adler' kind of relationship.

Hope you enjoy. Chapters of this size are a pain in the ass! Peace!