CANTERLOT CASTLE, EQUESTRIA / MORNING

I groggily opened my eyes after what felt like an eternity of slumber. I could have been out for days by the way I felt. When the haziness finally cleared I noticed I was in a huge, plushy canopy bed. I checked all of my members for movement. Surprisingly there was little to no pain anymore. I quickly jumped out of bed and surveyed the spacious room. It was incredibly luxurious, round in shape , and had an overly high ceiling adorned with celestial bodies. To my left was a balcony, but the doors were closed and had a strange looking lock on them. The same was found with a large pair of golden double doors directly in front of me.

"What the hell is this all about? What am I, some kind of posh life prisoner or something?", I said to myself mostly, and any possible beings that may hear me.

I checked around the room a little more and came to a small table on my right with a couple of apples and pastry looking items on it. Seeing that made me remember my stomach, damn I was hungry! I was a little leery of eating some foreign food, but I figured if I was set up and sent here to destroy powerful evil, then an apple probably wouldn't be my demise. I hoped. I grabbed one and scarfed it down. Best apple ever! While finishing off a second apple, I noticed a full length mirror back by the bed. I quickly made my way over to it to make sure everything was still the way it was supposed to be. I couldn't help smiling at what I saw. There I stood, a completely new man. I was a little over six feet tall, and had to be around two-hundred and twenty pounds of solid muscle. My hair was back to it's dark brown color, and my eyes had that icy blue shine to them again. My new body was far beyond what it ever was before and...still naked. Seriously, what the hell?

Then, without warning, the main double doors abruptly opened causing me to let out a less than manly yelp and jump for the bed. I peeked my head out from under the covers. There before me in the front of the room, stood two grey, armored stallions, both unicorns. I suddenly remembered that night, when I came upon those armored horses, and when the large, beautiful white horse spoke to me. Then I had a major realization. These horses, no wait, they're ponies. These ponies were the inhabitants of this dream world of mine. The ones from that TV show I watched so long ago! I guess I got my memories back along with my body.

I was pulled out of my brief moment of clarity when one of the armored unicorns stepped up and spoke to me.

"Don't worry human, we aren't here to harm you. We're just the royal guard. Now then, the princesses have requested your presence upon your arousal.", the lead guard said in a calm but authoritative tone.

I tried to play off my jumpiness,"I wasn't worried, that much. Wait, Princesses?", I then remembered them from my past as well.

"Yes. Princess Celestia and her sister Princess Luna.", answered the guard in the back.

"Well I'd be more than happy to come with you right now but I have a particular issue.", I said looking under the blanket, hoping they would just catch the hint.

The lead guard gave me a confused look, "What kind of issue are you having exactly?"

"I can't go in front of royalty like this!", I said motioning my hand up and down over myself.

The lead guard looked back at his comrade, then back at me, "Sir, what are you talking about?"

"Ugh! I'm naked! I wear clothing normally. You know, the little things made out of cloth! I kinda need them, I don't really feel comfortable walking up to the Princesses just swinging in the wind!", I said now a little annoyed at them and my drafty situation.

"Oh dear, I see. I'm sorry Sir, we had no idea. We thought you may have just been that way normally. You see, clothing here is purely an optional thing, mostly for cold weather or special occasions. That, and even if we knew, you are the first of your kind in this world, so naturally we don't have any clothing of your type.", the lead guard explained.

I quickly lost my annoyance. Damn, I should have known and remembered that of all things. I face-palmed and apologized, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be impatient with you, it's just, I'm still trying to believe that I'm really here. Anyway, I still need something to cover up with."

The rear guard then stepped up and smiled, "It's alright Sir, we are all here to help. Also, if it makes you feel any better, that blanket looks like it could make a decent cloak."

"Good idea.", I replied. Then I quickly pulled the blanket up over my shoulders and slid out of the bed. Instead of a simple thrown over cloak though, I managed to wrap it in a way that it resembled a toga. I had it going over one shoulder and around my waist with the ends hanging in the front and back like a loincloth.

"Even better.", said both of the guards in unison.

"I feel like one of those ancient Greek athletes or something.", I said chuckling, only earning two more confused looks from the guard ponies. "Never mind that."

"Right, well now we don't want to keep the Princesses waiting all day. If there are no more issues, please follow us to the throne room Sir.", said the lead guard as he turned for the door.

"I'm good now, thanks. I actually can't wait to meet the Princesses, the real life ones.", I said, catching what I just said a little too late.

The rear guard caught it and gave me a confused look, "What do you mean by real life ones?"

Damnit! I certainly couldn't explain to them that they were all just part of a TV show from my world that somehow paired up perfectly with this reality of theirs. "Oh, did I say 'The', I just meant real princesses in general. I never met a princess before, that's all.", I said quickly, hoping he bought it.

He did. "Oh, well today is your lucky day then. Lets get a move on.", He said joining his partner at the door.

"Right behind you!", I chimed with a grin.

The three of us made our way out of the room and down the hallway. It was lengthy with a high ceiling, and everything was so ornate and luxurious. The cartoon show just couldn't do any of the aesthetics justice. There were huge lifelike paintings on the walls and small pillars with stone busts on the shiny marble floor beneath them. I must have had a pretty awestruck expression on my face because one of the guards looked back and chuckled.

"Magnificent isn't it?", he asked smiling.

"Yes it's incredible!", I said, excited to see more.

He then looked back at his partner, "It gets better,oh and by the way, we forgot to address ourselves. I am Lieutenant Swift Spell, and my associate here is Sergeant Iron Horn."

"Well, it is a pleasure to meet you both. I am, well, my name is Archangel.", I said almost forgetting my new name.

"Interesting name.", Iron Horn said plainly.

"Yes indeed it is, what does it mean?", asked Swift Spell, seeming to be more genuinely interested.

I thought for a moment on how I should explain it to him. Better stay simple for now, I figured. "Its simple definition is just an angel of high rank as far as I know. It's just a name to me.", I said in a boring manner, hoping to change the subject.

"Hmm, still interesting though.", Swift Spell said quietly to himself as he turned his attention to the double doors coming up just ahead of us at the end of the hallway.

Swift Spell's horn flashed for a brief moment and the huge doors swung open letting in the bright daylight. We continued out through an open courtyard, that had all kinds of plant and animal life thriving within it. Celestia's sun was shining brightly high in the sky, and the weather was simply perfect. I was so busy taking it all in that I almost forgot to look straight ahead. Then Swift bumped my side and motioned his hoof towards our destination. I looked and my jaw immediately dropped.

There it was, the majority of Canterlot Castle in all it's royal glory, glistening in the morning sunlight. It was absolutely enormous, with sky scraping spires and massive buildings and archways. Again, the TV show had nothing on this real life experience. I could hardly contain my joy. "Now that, is magnificence at its finest!"

"Yes it is a true architectural marvel. Ah, we are almost there now.", Swift said as we reached the other side of the courtyard.

He opened the new set of doors and we made our way through into a wide open room. A small set of stairs led down to a wide landing that led to a similar set of stairs and door on the opposite side. To the right was a wider, main set of stairs that led down to a glossy checkered floor. There was an enormous, beautiful chandelier hanging in the center of the ceiling. This must have been the main entrance, because at the end of the checkered floor was a high golden archway with two large openings for coming and going. Just outside was a large pathway, or road, going out over a bridge towards the village of Canterlot. Another great site to see.

We came to the landing and Swift and Iron motioned to halt. That's when I noticed the giant doors just to our left. 'Must be the throne room.', I thought, now feeling a few butterflies in my stomach.

"Okay Archangel, we're here, wait a moment with Sergeant Iron while I report to the Princesses.", Swift ordered. He then slowly cracked open one of the doors and slipped in.

I looked over at Iron who actually seemed bored by all of this. "So, are the Princesses usually pretty nice or what?", I asked, feeling a little nervous over not knowing what to expect in a real life encounter with fiction.

He scoffed slightly, "Usually, yes. However, and no offense, but you aren't usual, so
I can't honestly say how this is going to go.

"None taken, and your're right about that. I just have no idea what they think of me or how they'll react to me.", I said, only getting more nervous.

"React to you? Hah, they are how you got to the castle in the first place, ya know. They personally brought you back in their own carriage. Your reaction to them however, well Princess Celestia, was the funny thing." he said snickering.

It was hazy, but the memory of the night of my arrival came rushing back to me. "Holy shit! She was the one I saw last before I passed out. Of course! I feel stupid.", I said with a sigh.

"Yup, you went down like a sack of apples. It was really hard to keep my composure in front of her Highness. But hey, don't take it hard, you were pretty beat up that night, and I guess waking up on a new world and seeing creatures you haven't ever seen in your life before would be quite a shock." He said thinking back on it all.

I laughed in my head at the truth of it all. "Right, yea it was and still is quite a lot to accept. But I think I'll manage.", I said giving him a sly smile.

At that moment Swift finally poked his head and hoof out of the door and waved us in.

We started towards the door then Iron Horn stopped right before the door and looked back at me. "Well Archangel its been nice chatting, but I feel it is my duty to say, that if nothing else, just be respectful. And no funny business. I know our orders are to treat you as a guest, and we will continue to do so, but we are still guards none the less. If we feel like you are a threat we will act on it. I'm only saying this in a professional manner, I assure you. Now, lets get in there shall we?"

"Thank you for your professionalism, and I can assure you, that there will be absolutely no trouble from me. I just want to find out what the next step is." I assured him as I made my way through the door.

When I entered I looked the entire room over. It was more amazing than the last. It was like a great hall, and had to be at least a hundred feet to the actual throne area. There were huge stained glass windows all along the way down. A red velvet carpet led me all the way down to the Princesses. Guards were posted every ten feet on both sides. A bit much, but I guess I may have been the reason for that. As I kept walking I looked back and noticed my escort stayed behind. Just little ol' me now, not awkward at all.

When I was only a few more steps away my attention fell fully on the two regal alicorn sisters staring down at me. Their sheer image was entrancing and breathtaking. Almost unreal. It's no wonder why they are looked at as goddesses. I almost froze, but then just fell to one knee in a respectful bow, saying nothing.

~~~

Celestia sat up a little straighter on her throne as the human approached. She was still uneasy over the thought of him being in her castle, being possibly violent and disrespec-wait, did he just bow down to them, on his own accord?! There before her was one the most unpredictable, and maybe unruly creatures in her mind, showing complete respect and humility.That was unexpected. It was a good start though. It would make her plan of winning him over by showing him kindness and friendship all the more simple.

~~~

Luna watched carefully as the creature her sister called a possibly dangerous human came walking up to them. She looked him up and down. He still didn't seem dangerous, evil, or anything of that sort. His walk was strong and graceful, and he had a look of pure peace and happiness on his face. Maybe a little nervousness too, understandable. She knew he was completely different, foreign even, but she felt an urge to like him and give him a solid chance at things. After all, she of all ponies would know what it feels like to be an outcast. To be looked at negatively. She had to hide a slight smile though when he was just standing there staring at them dumbstruck for a moment, and then practically fell to the floor in a bow. He was rather silly, in a good, respectful way.

~~~

"Rise sir, you may approach the throne.", said Princess Celestia with a smile.

I stood up and came within feet of the sisters. "Thank you your Highness."

"I do believe introductions are in order, please do tell us your name.", Luna spoke up in a subtly excited manner.

I gave her a soft smile, swallowed my nervousness and answered, "My name is Archangel, your Highness.".

Princess Celestia cleared her throat and looked at me with a friendly but generic smile, "It is a pleasure to meet you Archangel, we are glad to see you found some...clothing.". Luna seemed to fidget and blush a little at that remark. "And I must say, that's an interesting name for a human. I am Princess Celestia and this is my sister Princess Luna. We are the rulers of this land and of day and night."

"The pleasure is all mine you- whoa, wait a minute, you know what I am?! How?!", I asked completely shocked.

Celestia took a deep breath and looked over at her sister who just shrugged and awkwardly looked off out the window. She then turned back to me, a dry expression on her face. "Oh well I don't see the point in delaying anything or keeping secrets. Yes Archangel we, and only we, save for a few possible individuals, know what you are and even where you came from. Everypony else just knows rumors about your existence here and the loud thump you made in the valley the other night. What we don't know though is why you are here and how. Lastly but most importantly, we don't know you for who you are just yet, and I have to admit, from what I've seen of your race, you may have a lot of good nature to prove."

I was not expecting that! They are pretty much deities though, so who knows how much they can possibly know. And did she just insult my race? O-freakin'-kay then. This was a curve ball none the less, so I better just come out with it all and be honest. Can't imagine lying straight to a couple of demi-gods being in my best interests. So I began to put it all out there. "Your Highness this is all so very surprising to me, the things you know that is, and I'm very curious about all of that. However, I will reveal to you everything I possibly can about myself and my race, in complete honesty. If you will give me the time to explain."

"It's a start. You have our attention, please do continue.", Celestia said dryly.

"Thank you, I will try to make this as brief and understandable as I can, I am still trying to take it all in myself. Okay. First, as a human, I feel the need to defend a few points about my race and maybe clear some things up. I don't know the things you may have seen, and for how long either. Now I do know that our story has some questionable pages in the history books. But I would think, you of all beings would understand and notice, that no matter what happened when, it wasn't all of us as a whole, ever. In fact, a lot of us fought against the bad things or people, even if it was fighting, it was to promote a positive outcome. But I guess all you saw was violence, period. And you wrote us off right there didn't you?! I'll have you know we strive to better ourselves everyday, it's hard, it's our way of life though. Most of us just want love, peace, and harmony. Sure there's disagreements and war, we ain't perfect, but who is? You? No one is!", I fumed, not realizing my disrespectful tone, not really caring anymore either.

I think I saw Celestia's eye twitch a little, and Luna's attention was now back on me, a pretty surprised look across her face. "Noted, please continue.", Celestia said sounding mildly irritated now.

I rapidly remembered where I was and decided to tone things down a little. I figured it would probably be better to hold my ground with softer subjects. "Please forgive my fervor on the subject your Highness. As far as I know, I am humanity's only voice in this world, I only wish to defend it by showing it's greatest morals, virtues and potential. In my world, I stood by these in my everyday life. Love, peace, and harmony were my hopes for humanity as a whole, and my goal personally. I even once fought in a war myself for a short time, I didn't like the things I saw, so I strayed away from things like that. All I wanted was the simple life, and a family. I got it all too. I found the love of my life. We had everything together. We even had a beautiful daughter, and then-", I immediately stopped due to my throat involuntarily locking up and my chest tightening. I then hung my head trying not to let the inevitable tears show. The memory was like a twisting knife in my side. Still only causing pain.

Celestia's serious expression dropped noticeably at my sudden state of decaying emotion, and Luna was now staring at me, a look of concern on her face.

I shakily picked my head back up and continued. "I'm sorry about that, I would just rather not talk about it. It was irrelevant to why I'm actually here anyway."

Luna broke her silence and spoke to me. "You have experienced great loss and heartache haven't you? I can see it in your eyes, the love and sorrow for the lost. I am sorry for your pain. But, please if you can, will you tell us more about your unusual circumstances here?"

"I too am sorry for your suffering. And I respect your passion to uphold your races' better aspects. Your nobility is already a good mark in your character. But I too must ask you to explain these strange happenings.", Celestia added, coming off a bit softer now.

Time to put away the painful past for now and tell the real interesting story I figured. "Yes I have, a great deal of it, but thank you for your consideration. And yes, I will tell you, but you may not believe it."

To make a long unnecessary portion of story shorter, I told them everything. Starting with the end of my old life and heavenly wishes, coming into contact with the powerful being, and His evil-slaying proposition for me. Then, my new name, title, and power. Finally, how I just came crashing down into their world. I even mentioned the TV show, which they also somehow knew about.

"So there you have it then, that's me as of now.", I finished, finally recalling all of my recent events.

It was the princesses' turn to look a little shocked this time. Celestia was the first speak. "That all sounds so far fetched, but none the less you are here. And you don't exactly look like most humans I've seen. You do look more...pure and enhanced. Even still, you have to understand, we are rulers, and we have nothing but concern for our subjects and their well being. We still need to gain each others trust over time. There is one thing though that I feel I must share with you. There was a sort of prophecy floating around, and a lot that you have told us matches up fairly well. Namely you."

I gave her a curious glance. "And what do you mean by that?"

"This prophecy says that a 'Hero' will fall from the skies and put an end to this evil we have been speaking of. Now you did fall from the heavens, that much is true. I don't see how else you would have gotten yourself here. But you are going to have to prove yourself as a hero, in big areas and small. Especially if you are going to be the guardian of this world.", Luna said before her sister could answer.

"A hero huh? Yea the big man upstairs said something about that too. Listen Princesses, I will cooperate with anything you wish. Differences can be hashed out later, for now, I have a duty. And it is to Equestria and it's safety. I love this world and it's inhabitants, and I will do whatever I have to do to protect it, and prove that love. I am here to serve and protect.", I said with determination in my voice.

The alicorn sisters looked at each other for a moment. Luna gave her sister a told you so sort of smirk. Celestia gave her a slight smile, then looked back at me with a softer expression than she had before. "Serve and protect you say? That's a very noble statement. I have to ask though. Why choose this world Archangel, why do you see it as a heavenly place, why do you wish to fight so hard for it? It seems such a heavy burden for just one to take on.".

I stood there for a moment thinking on the best way to answer those questions. Then it was clear. "It's worth it your Highness.This place is pure and good, it lives by love and friendship. Violence is almost never the answer to problems here. Anywhere I look, I see beauty and happiness. These things are only the beginning answers to your questions. When I look deeper at it, I think of all the happy families and innocent lives.", I paused a moment, then decided to open up a little more than before. "I had a happy family once and a great life like I said before, and just like that, one by one, I lost everyone and everything with little to no warning. So when I think about something that would purposely threaten that, on any world, I would happily fight to the bitter end to stop it! With or without the means to do so."

"Your passion is obvious Archangel. And there is no denying that dark times are ahead of us, so that passion may be just the thing we need to get through. Like I said before, we will need to gain each others trust over time, but we most certainly accept your noble service. We may need any help we can get. Along with your will to fight though, you did say you were given a gift of incredible power. Could you perhaps give us an example?", Celestia asked now genuinely interested.

Ahh crap, I haven't had the slightest sensation of my energy since I face-planted here. "Oh right. I'll, uh...try my best. I still feel a little weak from, well you know, slamming into your planet.", I joked half seriously.

"It's alright Archangel just try your best, we understand.", Luna said almost as if cheering me on.

I couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm towards me. "What should I do? I've never had an ability like this before and I didn't exactly get to go over the 'controls' before being thrown into atmosphere. How do I focus it?"

"Well, that may be hard for us to help you with. You see, when we felt your energy, it was unlike any magical energy we're familiar with. That's just about all we know and use here in this world. Whatever is flowing through you is beyond anything we have ever come in contact with. But with magic you just focus on what is within and around you and what you want it to do. Its power is generally measured by experience. Maybe you could try that.", Luna explained.

"Interesting, I don't feel powerful though, at all right now. But hey it's worth a try. Okay here it goes.", I said doubting myself.

Again I stood there, still and silent, focusing on my emotional energy. Very human of me, but I had to start somewhere. I thought about all the bad things, and thoughts that made me angry. I actually started to feel something building inside, so I thought deeper, stronger thoughts. Thoughts about my wife and daughter, this beautiful world and it's ponies, and my love for them all. Then it happened. The thought of losing everything and everyone hit me. My mind went blank and dark, my body was shaking and felt electrified. Then it really happened.

Celestia started growing concerned. "Archangel? Are you alr-"

"I WILL NOT LOSE THEM TOO!", I suddenly roared at the top of my lungs. When I did my whole body looked as if it was engulfed in pure white flames, my eyes too were searing white hot, leaking pure energy. I was entranced, unable to move. Two seconds later the energy dispersed off of me in all directions like a shock wave, knocking a couple of guards to their knees and making the princesses jump in surprise. I then slumped to the floor weak from exhaustion.

"Wha- what just happened?", I barely managed to gasp out.

"That, I believe was your energy indeed, but in a fragile, emotionally controlled state. It makes sense Archangel, your emotions are weak right now and so your energy suffers from it. One of two things may need to happen, either you gain control and strength in your emotions, or you find another catalyst to spark the energy. There is so much potential built up inside of you. You just have to relearn yourself and your abilities.", Princess Celestia answered while regaining her composure.

"I'm terribly sorry about that. I could feel all of it, but it was so hard to control. I have never felt anything like that before. I thought I was better than that, you must think of me as failure.", I said picking myself up off the floor.

Princess Luna stepped down from the throne and to my surprise held out her hoof to help me up. I took the help, hell I needed it. I felt like shit again.

"Don't feel bad about this, nopony got hurt and you just need time and practice. It is rather impressive that you were able to even conjure up that much power, considering that you are most likely the only human to ever possess a gift like this. We will do whatever we can to help you figure yourself out. And don't you call yourself a failure, your not done already alright.", Luna reassured me. I was really beginning to favor her of the two.

"Thank you Princess, that gives me hope. But, what's the next step? Where do I even start?", I asked, hoping to leave this event behind as quickly as possible.

"I was just getting to that actually. We are sending you to the little town of Ponyville, which I'm sure you know of.", Celestia stated as she came down towards us.

Ponyville! I could hardly contain my excitement. "Yes, of course I have! I mean, yea...nice town."

Celestia then continued to explain my next steps. "Good then I'm sure you know of a great many other names and things I'm about to inform you of. Which is why I must say, there is to be absolutely no mention of our knowledge of your world and your knowledge of ours. As far as everypony from here on is concerned, you are completely new to everything here, which in physical reality, now you are, but you know what I'm getting at. Also it is okay to explain to them who and what you are, what your potential is, and a very simple explanation of how you got here, not the full story, please. For all they really need to know, you just appeared in the sky and all you remember is your name and purpose here. Finally. Please. Please, do not mention anything to due with any 'coming evils'. These ponies know only peace in their day to day lives and I do not want that shattered needlessly. These are just some simple ground rules to keep things in order. I hope you understand."

"I understand. For what it's worth now, you have my word.", I said still trying not to look too excited.

"Good, you will travel there by carriage first thing in the morning. Now Archangel, I haven't arranged for you to stay anywhere when you get there. I have only announced to the ponies there the arrival of a new creature in our land and that you'll be coming tomorrow. So the rest will be part of proving yourself, a test of sorts. Many of them may be timid of you at first, but you just show them that pure spirit of yours and they will love you. Learn the magic of friendship, trust me, it's a powerful thing.", Celestia said putting a wingtip over my shoulder.

"Oh, I just can't wait to go. I hope I do great with everypony there. I'll do my very best!", I said feeling like a little kid again.

"I almost forgot to mention my most faithful stu- I mean, Princess, Twilight Sparkle. Even I am still getting used to that one. Anyway, you should probably get well acquainted with her first. She could effectively help you practice your focus and power. When she gets a task she won't quit until it's taken care of.", Celestia informed.

"Also a unicorn pony named Rarity is the best seamstress you can find around these parts. She lives in a boutique on the edge of the town. She would most likely be able to help you with your...clothing issue.", Luna piped in, slightly blushing again.

"Right, I'll be sure to try and meet up with all six of the elements. I'm sure they will be the greatest help.", I said trying not laugh at Luna still staring at my ridiculous excuse for clothing.

"Any questions before we convene Archangel?", Celestia asked.

My previous excitement suddenly ran cold as I remembered the serious portions of my new reality there. "Yes. I actually have a rather important one."

Both Princesses then gave me a gesture to continue.

I then cleared my throat and asked, "With this looming threat, whatever it may be. What defenses and preparations have you made thus far?".

Luna immediately shot an uneasy glance at her sister and backed away behind her slightly, as if putting her on the spot.

There was an awkward pause for a moment but Celestia finally answered, "Forgive me. I was and still am a bit skeptical about giving you that information, being that it is protective in nature. Nothing personal, as I said, trust will need to be earned over time. However without being too detailed, you can rest assured that the Royal Guard is at its highest number of well trained soldiers since it was formed. Also, the castle and Canterlot is surrounded by a strong magical barrier."

Celestia gave a weak smile after telling me this as if what she said didn't make her feel any better, or safer. It certainly didn't make me feel any better. I was tempted to ask a million more questions, especially given my military background. However, she made it pretty clear, spoken or unspoken, that she did not wish to tell me very much, yet. Something was telling me that she did not have a clue what was coming and that she hasn't done a damn thing to proactively defend against this threat. Guards are great and magical barriers are good, but trained armies and a means of counter-attack are far better. I knew full well that Celestia was not some naïve little pony, but maybe she never faced a threat of this magnitude. Hell, I never have, but I would have had a little more to show for it, minus the magical barrier bit.

I then realized that Celestia and I were just staring at each other ridiculously as if we just had that entire thought process as an audible conversation.

I broke the silence. "Well. That's, good to hear. I'm certainly glad you have things under control and ready.", I said with as much sincerity as I could muster. "That's all I wanted to ask. I can't wait to get started in Ponyville! When do I go?".

Celestia appeared to visibly relax a bit at my sudden change of subject.

"It's settled then, we have a new guardian in training. I will have the guards take you back to your room now Archangel. You should get some rest after today's ordeal. Tomorrow you go to Ponyville to start your training and begin to show us who you really are, through your actions and behavior. Good luck and rest well.", Celestia said taking back her regal pose upon the throne.

"Sweet dreams Archangel.", Luna said with a smile as she joined her sister.

"Thank you both, you have been so very understanding and hospitable to me. Again, I will do my best to learn all I can and show myself worthy of this world. I hope to be an asset and most importantly, a friend to everypony I can.", I stated with a bow. I was then met by Swift Spell and Iron Horn again, and we made our way back to my room for the rest of the afternoon and evening. As I walked back, I pondered Celestia's strange demeanor and how uneasy she was at the mention of defense preparations. I had a feeling that I may be playing a much larger part in this entire ordeal than just getting myself ready for this coming threat. However, in my present state, I was the only thing I could handle or worry about for the time being. Even though that alone was proving difficult. At that moment, I washed the thoughts from my mind and decided that a night of sleep would probably be the most beneficial thing at that point.

~~~

Princess Celestia watched the new human named Archangel walk out of the throne room, a new sense of hope for him, and greater curiosity about him in her mind. However, she too felt every bit of the uneasiness that he felt regarding the readiness of their forces. Would it be enough? Was there more she could have done or could still be doing with such short notice? These and more antagonistic questions plagued her mind until she forcibly stifled them. She then looked over at her sister and gave a weak smile.

"What's that smile all about Tia?", asked Luna.

"Oh I was just thinking how about how right you were about having hope for him. He is nothing close to guardian material right now, but he did survive a fall from the cosmos and that energy, I just have to know more about it. Something seems so familiar about it. He may not know it yet, but I used my magic to search deeper into his being. What I found was remarkable.", Celestia explained.

"I was going to do that too, but I decided to help him up off the floor. I guess I just have some form of compassion for him. He seems so powerful yet so broken inside. It's sad really. But do tell what you found Sister.", Luna said interested.

Celestia thought it over for a second then continued. "The only other source of power I know of that resembles our new friend's power is, the Elements of Harmony! Only his power is a little more complex, as if it doesn't have limits, but that can't be possible."

"Didn't those fall from the heavens during a harsh time as well?", Luna asked now intrigued by this possible connection.

"Yes, in fact they did. Who knows, they could have come from the same place. But that's a mystery for later I suppose.", Celestia answered.

"It's all so very interesting to think about, but I just hope the best for him in his trials. He has a lot to learn, and I don't know how much time we have before things turn for the worst.", Luna said thinking it all over.

Celestia put a wing around her little sister pulling her close. "I know Lulu, if he is everything we hope he is, then he will do fine. I just hope we made the right decision sending him to live closely among our subjects. We are trusting him with a lot more than I thought we would a couple days ago."

Luna laid her head against her sister and smiled. "He'll do the right thing."

~~~

When I got back into my room I said goodbye to the guards and crash landed in the bed. I was in a little pain and completely worn out. It was an interesting day to say the least. I had a lot on my plate and a lot to prove now. Also, I was extremely disappointed in my abilities earlier. I thought I was supposed to be powerful. Yea, I was told I would need to 'unlock and discover' my abilities little by little, yet I was still so frustrated that I couldn't just do it already. Despite it all, I couldn't help smiling as I fell asleep. I was after all, finally in my dream world.

Author's Note

Ok finally 3 is done. It's a long one. I was experimenting with ~~~ being point of view changes, so let me know if it works or sucks. Overall as well. Also I want to leave it to the readers on this subject, but what are some thoughts about a possible romance??? Who should it be with? (Personally, I like the princesses.) Should it happen at all? You read. You decide! (P.S. This has been revised a bit so I need to know how I did, again. Mostly because I did it at like 4:00 A.M. so yea blah! Thanks!)