Burning Feathery Love

Chapters

A-not-so-rude awakening
New home at the academy
Exotic fears
Unfamiliar routines
Gryphon problems
Shuffling about
An electrical day

A-not-so-rude awakening

*BANG*

You wake up quickly and inelegantly due to the sudden loud noise rattling throughout the entire apartment, from the front door all the way to your bedroom. It’s 8:13am according to your bedside clock. With that in mind, it’s probably the mailmare.

You crawl out of bed and glance at yourself in the nearby mirror. You look a tired heap of fluff, the feathery tuft of feathers on your head sticking out in completely random directions. Your wings look like they've been in a serious accident, and your eyes say you've been up all night, yet you couldn't care less. You looked exactly like you felt.

You really need to get yourself into some sort of morning routine.

Giving your wings a quick stretch causes a couple loose feathers to fall out and onto the floor amongst other rubbish. Patting your head, you manage to flatten a couple of the feathers that had you looking like the lazy heap of fluff that you actually are.

You make a mental note to tidy up your apartment like every day and head downstairs. You could already see somepony at the front door. It's exactly who you thought it'd be. She's rubbing her face with a hoof giving you the impression she flew straight into your door. It's not like she hasn't done it before.

You greet her with a friendly reminder. “Derpy... What have I told you about taking it easy? The mail being late is nothing compared to your safety.”

“I know...I'm just so excited about the Wonderbolt show tonight... I wanted to be done as fast as possible. Sorry Lazuli... I didn't smash anything did I?” She spins around once and looks about the place then back up at you. You can’t help but smile at the ditsy pony. She's so bubbly it's almost infectious.

“Everything is fine Derpy. So... you got any mail for me then? Or you gonna stand here all day admiring my bedroom feathers?” She giggles and smiles. You liked Derpy, she had been a very obvious friend to you since you moved into Cloudsdale. She was one of the few ponies that didn't mind gryphons, or she simply didn't know about the bad reputation most of them had. Either way, you're happy you knew somepony who treated you like... Like an equal.

“I've got a nice letter with your name on in here somewhere.” Derpy fishes deep within her mail saddlebags that are currently on the ground besides your door until she pulls out a very elegant looking envelope with your name on. It wore a golden trim and a unique looking Wonderbolt seal.

If the bang of Derpy crashing into the apartment hadn't woken you up, this sure did.

“Pretty isn't it?” She asks still smiling.

“Y...yeah... I wonder what it’s about. Thanks for bringing me this Derpy.”

“It’s my job silly gryphon. Sooo... I was wondering..." She looks down at the welcome mat and begins to scuff her hooves back and forth seemingly nervous. “...Will you be going to the show tonight? I can get you a ticket if you want. Y...You could come with me...”

You lean forward and give the grey mare a small hug which certainly surprised her as she squeaks. You were never really into physical contact with other ponies asides from the occasional brawl, but Derpy was an exception. A lovely exception. “Sorry Derpy. I've got things to do. Next thing you invite me to, I promise to come with you, no matter what it is.”

You’ll certainly regret saying that later. (Especially if it’s got anything to do with “50 Shades of hay”) The real reason why you didn't want to go to the show tonight wasn't because you were busy, but instead you wanted to avoid a large crowd. Ponies aren't particularly nice to gryphons, or at least that's how it feels with all the stares.

After hugging the ditsy pony you feel some soft lips press against your cheek startling you. Now would be a good time to let her carry on with her job before the situation gets anymore awkward. “I’ll hold you to that offer Lazuli. Bye!” She proceeds to fly straight into the neighbours wall.

“Owch!” You visibly cringe.

A few hours passed and you still haven’t opened your letter, instead preferring to keep the mystery of what it is fresh in your mind. This was a simple game you liked to play. Guessing what was in your mail before opening it. You’d always give yourself a mental praise if you ever guessed correctly.

It HAD to be related to the Wonderbolts... Maybe it was in invitation to a concert. Derpy did say there was one on tonight. Maybe you won a backstage pass to said show. Or maybe- you stop, curiosity finally getting the better of you. It looked important, and you simply HAD to open it. No more games.

“Dear Mr Lazuli. We at the Wonderbolt academy in Cloudsdale would like to employ your services.”

Already this sounded strange. “Employ your services” you currently had none. You left the military after your contract was up. In fact, the money you saved from those years is what you’re living off of now. The fact the letter is confirmed to be related to the Wonderbolts also sparked curiosity deep within you. Reading on;

“We need to know if you’re interested in our offer before giving you any details. If you wish to learn more, please attend the Wonderbolt show tonight at 10:00pm at the Cloudsdale stadium. Please use the enclosed ticket to gain entry. We are looking forward to meeting you. Signed; Wonder Wings.”

Wonder Wings? Wasn't she the founder of the Wonderbolts? Why did she want to employ you? And how? What exactly was this offer anyways? How did she even know you?

So many questions ran rampant though your mind and you know they'll be plaguing you all day unless you found the answers. You hadn't planned on going to the concert, and if you did it would've been with Derpy. However this letter seemed important, important enough to put up with a crowd and head to the stadium tonight. Besides, it wasn't too far to fly and fresh air always did you good.

Taking another look inside the envelope reveals the concert ticket just as promised. There are still a few hours before the show starts. (According to your clock which had a tendency to be wrong) That gives you more time to rattle your brain for any scraps of sense you could find.

Lunch was nice, salmon sandwiches. Salmon being your favourite fish, and fish being your favourite food. Unfortunately your mind was still in overdrive trying to figure out why you received that invitation. There must be a reason for the letter being addressed to you specifically.

Checking the time again suggests the show is going to start soon. Your chest starts to feel heavy and you open a window for some fresh air. You don't often feel nervous, but today feels different. You spend a few minutes watching the outside as the stadium for tonight's show begins to light up.

Large spot lights of various different colours beamed directly into the sky, stealing all the attention of the cold winters night. As much as you wanted to stay indoors doing nothing productive all day, you had somewhere to be.

Being late was something that always worried you. Training with the military meant NEVER being late. For ANYTHING. You head downstairs and leave your apartment. After locking the door you spread your large eagle wings outwards and with a strong flap, lift off into the nights sky.

Flying was always relaxing, even in tense situations. Back when you were with the military, you used to get up extra early and go out and fly. The feeling of the wind gently flowing through each of your azure feathers would calm you down. After such flights you’d be ready for a grueling day full of blood sweat and tears. Fun times.

You snicker under your breath at your own sarcastic thought.

Surprisingly you arrive In the nick of time as the gatekeeper for the stadium was about to close his booth. You run up to him and wave your ticket towards him. He gives you a funny look before taking the ticket and pointing for you to go in without saying anything.

Inside looking up you could see dying streaks of smoke and fire left in the night sky by some Wonderbolt trick or something. You were never quite sure how they did those tricks- The roar of the crowd catches you off guard and you look skyward again only to see more fire and smoke, this time with pegasi attached to the trails.

You're not sure how you ended up being late, but that didn't bother you right now. Everypony loves the Wonderbolts, even a gryphon like you. How they managed to perform all those awesome tricks infront of such a huge audience is amazing. The whole squad could fly as nimble as a single pegasus and as fast as lightning, they could do loops, barrel roles, spins and all sorts of other stunts that can't be described in text alone.

After awhile of gawking you hear an announcer suggest a game of chicken, and on queue the Wonderbolt squad split into smaller groups and took position at either end of the stadium. The audience collectively gasps as the pegasi race towards each other at impressive speeds. Even you know they won't crash, but they could fool anypony right now.

Just as they are about to slam into each other somepony grabs your arm and pulls you out of sight of the show. Without line of sight you’re left with only your sense or hearing to find out what you just missed. Ecstatic roars of the crowd suggest you missed something good.

You turn to look at your captor before struggling out of their grip. The mare standing before you wasn't security, or a fan, or even a Wonderbolt. She was old. The wrinkles on her face and the bundled grey mane gave it away. She looked like a lost librarian.

“Hey!?” Was all you could say before she grabs your arm again, pulling you alongside herself. You tear your arm from her grip again and stand your ground, looking annoyed.

“What are you doing? I was watching the show.” You demand.

The old mare replies impatiently. “Come on. Hurry, you’re late. Miss Wonder Wings has been waiting for-” Checking her wrist watch prompts another response. “six minutes.”

How could you be late for something that wasn't even necessary to attend? “You could have just asked me. It would have been the nicer option. And how come I'm late?”

“Miss Wonder Wings wanted to talk to you in her office six... No. seven minutes ago. Hurry up.” She gestures for you to follow. You couldn't help but let out a sigh and agree. As much as you wanted to watch the show or demand answers from this old mare, meeting Wonder Wings personally would answer all your questions.

The old mare leads you into what looks just like a make shift waiting room somewhere deep within the stadium. It's silent; if somepony dropped a needle you’d hear it from miles away.

Your would-be-companion gets your attention then gestures towards a lonely door in the corner of the room. “Go on then. You don’t want to be- “She glances at her watch again. “Ten minutes late. You’ll be just fine, now off you go.”

Standing still for too long causes the impatient mare to shove you. The door read “Staff only” and being closer you could hear the distinctive sound of papers being shuffled inside. Taking a deep breath, you put a claw on the handle and think to yourself. What exactly is this about? A single swift motion later, you step into the room.

The first thing you notice is the mare sitting opposite. Wonder Wings, probably the best flier in Equestria if not one of the best sitting directly ahead at a large desk covered in papers. She was looking rather fine considering the amount of stress involved in paperwork. Her coat a deep shade of red, her mane and tail, purple with some pinker streaks stretched through. She was lithe but still looked somewhat strong. Her wings were kept close to her sides and looked pristine, making you wish you’d preened your own before you came here.

“Lazuli welcome. Take a seat. Please.” Her voice is gentle yet commanding. You do as your asked and take a seat, swallowing a mouthful of air you realize how nervous you are. You've been in the company of plenty of drill masters before, and the mare at the desk ahead of you, demanded the exact same respect as one.

You sit and stare silently, waiting for her to speak or do something, anything. Her judging stare could easily topple the strongest dragon.

After an eternity of deathly silent judging she finally agrees you’re acceptable and pushes her paperwork to the side then decides to speak up, breaking the deadly silence. “I'm going to cut straight to the chase since you’re late. I want to hire a bodyguard for my Wonderbolts.”

You want to reply but something feels stuck in your throat, possibly your tongue. Instead you just look puzzled and wait for her to continue. “You may be wondering why I want to hire you out of all the ponies better suited to such a job. Well let me explain." She crosses her hooves and looks at you dead in the eyes.

"I want a gryphon. The reputation your race has should be scary enough give anypony a second thought about starting fights with my team.”

She was right saying gryphons were scary. All the gryphons you've met had very limited tempers. You'll never forget that time you gave another gryphon a sincere compliment on their mustache. Sudden, she’s angry at you?! That was the last time you bothered trying to make gryphon friends.

“I also want somebody from the military. Meaning they will have extensive physical training and will obey orders without question. You fit both criteria perfectly.”

Every single word got drilled into your head from her commanding tone, even if you wanted to disagree, her tone made everything said fact. You open your beak to say something, but she immediately interrupts you.

“I know exactly what you’re thinking. I know my team of Wonderbolts are fit and could probably handle themselves in a scrap. But if anything ever gets out of control, I want somepony around who will keep them safe. I've been getting an increase in threats from competition, some of these sounding quite serious and I’d just like to be sure my team is protected at all times. You’re the gryphon for the job.”

It never crossed your birdie brain that the Wonderbolts might have enemies. It just seemed like everypony loved them. Everypony you knew liked them, and everypony you didn't know too.

Even if you wanted to say no, you couldn't tell if she was asking, or ordering you. If the latter, you couldn't disobey. Leaving the army doesn't stop you from being a solider. Besides, working for the Wonderbolts... as a guard? Not many jobs offers get any better than this. Especially for a gryphon living in pony society.

As if she knew what you're thinking she talks again. “Wonderful. I’d like to give you more details about this job, but it’s pretty obvious what I want you to do. I'm also late for my next appointment. Oh yeah, the pay is good and you’ll be staying at HQ so you’ll be nearby at all times. Talk to my secretary about meeting the team. Now off with you, I can't chit chat with you all day.”

With those words you back out of the room slowly. You never even got the chance to say a word. Wonder Wings is much scarier upfront than you could have ever imagined, you really wouldn't want to be on her bad side- you almost bump into the old librarian mare. She must have been waiting outside for however long.

“The Wonderbolts are staying at the Silver Lining Hotel. Here’s the key to the room they’ll be staying in. It’ll be on the top floor.”

You have to do a double take to finally snap out of the trance like state you're in. You feel a key pressed into your claw and you lift it up to look at the engraved number on it; twenty. Before you get the chance to thank the old mare she’d already taken a seat at a small desk in the corner and started to sorting yet more stacks of papers.

“Umm... thanks miss...”

“Pennyfull. Miss Pennyfull. Or just Penny. I'm the secretary for miss Wonder Wings. I’ll be looking forward to all the paperwork I'm going to have to fill out because of you.”

“I... umm... sorry?”

“Oh shush you, don’t mind me dearie. It’s my job, anyways you better be off to meet the group, have fun.”

You give a quick nod and start to make your way towards the outside almost getting lost in the winding corridors beneath the stadium first. Outside you could hear lots of voices chattering away, and just as you thought, the show must have ended. Must have been a short show, or you were in that room far longer than it seemed. Ponies were leaving and discussing all the different exciting things that they saw tonight. In the crowd you hear what sounds like a voice shouting your...name?”

“LAZULI! OVER HERE!!” Your mailmare friend stood out in the dense crowd, her hooves waving about in the air widely trying to get your attention.

“Heya Derpy, did you enjoy the show?” You ask simply.

“Mmhmm” She nods and gives you a smile. She looked hot and happy. She had some sweat dripping down her head and cheeks. She was an avid fan of the Wonderbolts, pretty much every pegasus in Cloudsdale was, and by the looks of things they all attended their show tonight.

“So... I guess you being here means you’re not busy anymore?”

You accidentally tune out whatever she was saying, instead you just stare at her, watching as she speaks. Her cheeks go rosy and you couldn't help but smile at how cute she looked right now. “Oh sorry Derpy, what where you saying?”

“I umm... Just wanted to know if you’d like to... Erm... Spend the rest of tonight with me?” Her nerves start showing just like this morning.

Unfortunately as much as you’d want to spend the night with Derpy, you just got told to meet the Wonderbolts. Which is a chance you can never let pass. Perhaps you could bring Derpy along? Surely they wouldn't mind... Nah, better not, you wanted to make sure everything goes smoothly tonight, and Derpy wasn't exactly the smoothest of mares.

Maybe another time. “Sorry Derpy, I need to be somewhere tonight.” As soon as those words left your beak, you could tell she was disappointed, her ears flopped down and her bubbly attitude had vanished.

“Oh... Okay...” Seeing her sad was beyond heartbreaking.

“I'm sorry, the only reason I'm here was an interview. And now I'm wanted somewhere else. If you asked me any other day, I’d say yes in a heartbeat. Remember though, my offer from this morning still stands.”

That was enough to make her smile. You hug her and she hugs you back, a little too tightly but you couldn't complain. Not now. No matter how long you both wanted to hug, you really had to be somewhere right now. “I've got to go Derpy, but you have a nice day okay?”

“Will do sir!” She let’s go of you and salutes. She giggles and you laugh. Derpy always had a habit of making fun of your military history, and you loved it. You give her your own salute and laugh again before heading off. The Silver lining hotel was your destination and meeting its current inhabitants your objective.

The Silver Lining hotel stood out from the crowd of most buildings, it being so tall and elegant. The sign outside glowed with the “no vacancies” on display. It was an expensive hotel with lovely big rooms and en suits bathrooms. It was expensive for a reason and even the outside shouted “RICH PONIES ONLY.” There were gilded columns of solid silver clouds holding up balconies from different floors, there was a pool out back in some waterproof clouding. And they even had a pony that opens the front door for you. How fancy.

Inside was a change, the theme adding luxurious velvet to the clean silver colours. There was a nice red carpet affect, making anypony coming in feel important. Everypony inside, staff and visitor alike, were dressed in suits and wearing much too expensive perfumes and colognes. On the otherhoof you looked like you’d just been mugged. Twice. You really hadn't thought about getting yourself dressed properly for the occasion. Then again you never expected this to happen either.

You explain to the receptionist why you’re here and he was very understanding, he explains how to get to the twentieth floor without flying, which apparently would be uncouth in the current building.

After heading up what seemed way more than twenty flights of stairs you finally reach the top floor. It would have been so much easier to have flown, or taken an elevator but you never trusted those things. Getting trapped inside a metal box dangling from a few cords above a huge hole. No thanks.

Finally reaching the top, In-between loud breaths you could hear what sounded like a party. Laughing, chatting, music all coming from room twenty. There couldn't be a better time to introduce yourself. You stand outside the door listening to the ponies inside speaking while thinking about how you’ll give your first impressions.

“It was awesome!” A flamboyant male voice sounded.

“Yeah, Soarin you were pretty cool today, I wish I had fans like those.” A more masculine voice spoke.

“Guys you do, seriously. Do you ever look into the audience while performing?” That last voice is easily recognized as Soarins'.

What are they talking about in there? Maybe they've got crazy fans. That’d be fun dealing with. Your current train of thought was cut short when the door swung open.

“Yo who ordered the gryphon?”

You sit there shocked and unable to speak. The pony standing in the doorway was mostly in his Wonderbolt suit, with his head and front hooves free from the latexy material. He had cream coloured ears and head so it’s best to presume the rest of his coat had a similar colour. His mane hung down the left side of his face and was a coppery orange colour, just the same as his tail which was flicking about with curiosity.

“My guess is she’s probably another of Soarin’s fans. Is she hot? If she's hot let her in.” You want to speak, but decide to humour yourself to see what direction this conversation will take and stay silent. You can always correct their mistakes later.

“He is pretty cute.”

Okay. You had humoured yourself enough, time to act before this stallion get’s the hots for you. Deciding the best way to introduce yourself would be to get inside and explain as simply as you could, you push past the stallion in the doorframe and prepare to enter the spotlight.

Inside there are two more stallions and a mare all sitting on couches, they had stop chatting to look at the potential crazed Soarin fan. The normally elegant room was more messy than normal with drinks and food scattered all over the place. Some music was playing in the background, it sounded like something by Dj Pon3. You could also here a shower running in the room to your right. There must be a fifth pony in there.

“Listen up everypony. I’m the newest member of the team.”

The tensity in the air lifted instantly after you spoke those words, a number of relieved sighs echoed throughout the room. You couldn't blame them, the way you looked right now had them all on edge. All but the stallion at the door who had just quietly shuffled closer to you. The other ponies began to chat amongst themselves in whispers. They seem to be leaving you and door stallion together to talk.

“Woah- You’re gonna be flying with us? Sweeeeeet” he grabbed one of your wings and lifted it up with such enthusiasm. Apparently unaware of the intimacy in wingplay, or he just didn't care.

“Hey stop that-” you shove him to the side once more. “And no... I won’t be flying with you. I'm not exactly a Wonderbolt but instead a bodyguard, or something, I'm not sure, Wonder Wings just said to come meet you all.” That wasn't the best introduction, but it could have been far worse.

You weren't exactly sure what was going on now. First when you came in everypony stopped and stared at you silently. Once you announced your friendly intentions they all started talking amongst themselves again. And now you say you’re the new bodyguard they all go silent again, even the music had gone silent in the background leaving the only sound present, the running shower.

Door stallion was thinking, and by the look on his face, he was thinking furiously. After awhile he heads into the room and takes a seat then kicks his hooves out onto a nearby table trying to look cool. He softens his expression before patting the seat next to him. You walk over to the one currently active pony in the room and raise an eyebrow to him.

“Dude no worries, take a seat.” You do. This was the opportunity to get to examine the surroundings and nearby ponies. There are four Wonderbolts in the main room. Door stallion and three others. One of the stallions was Soarin, anypony could recognize his blue mane, lighter blue coat and green eyes anywhere. Fleetfoot was also here, unless there was another member of the Wonderbolts with a light turquoise coat and bright white mane and tail.

You only recognized three Wonderbolts in general. Spitfire, Soarin and Fleetfoot. This meant the last member in the room besides the door stallion, you didn't know. His coat was orange and his mane was a deep fiery red, he kinda looked like a genderbent version of spitfire. All of them had taken off their suits besides door stallion who seems to be inching his way out of his right now.

He notices you looking over everypony. “You obviously know who we all are. Everypony does! But just in case, that big idiot over there is Soarin-”

“Hey! I'm not an idiot!”

“Let me finish Soarin hun." He gestures a "go away" towards Soarin then continues.

"The cute blue mare over there is Fleetfoot, and beside her is handsome Firestreak. I think Spitfire is in the shower. She’s been in there for like, hours. Oh and I'm Orange Sundae, It’s a pleasure to meet you.” You get your claw kissed by Orange Sundae which then leads to him giving you little bow afterwards. He’s really out to impress you.

“The rest of today’s squad are out flying, except Sugar Dust who went to buy some drinks for us, she’ll be back soon I guess. Anyways... My new gryphon friend... Care to tell me ya name?” By this time Firestreak, Fleetfoot and Soarin have all begun listening in and are leaning in your direction waiting for your answer.

“I’m Lazuli. Just a regular gryphon.” Your short answer seems to confused them.

Green eyes Soarin is the first pony to ask you a proper question- “So... why are you our bodyguard?”

You still aren't 100% sure but if you’re going to work with these ponies it’s best to tell them anything that’ll help you get along. “Well... your leader, founder or whatever her rank is, Wonder Wings wanted reassurance that her Wonderbolts would have somepony looking out for them.” Everypony wants you to continue. Although Orange Sundae is sitting star struck, whether it's the thought of having a bodyguard around or if he has a thing for gryphons, or something else, he's just sitting smiling intently at you. “She thinks my military experience will prove useful too-”

Orange Sundae stops staring and interrupts. “You were with the military! Holy cow, that’s awesome! I bet you can kick a manticore’s butt!” His enthusiasm seems to spike.

“I doubt it, but I have won a few rough fights against a gargoyle.” You boast.

By a few rounds you meant two lucky times out of forty or so attempts. The gargoyle in question was your close quarters combat trainer, Gem Striker. Everypony just called him Cutter due to one time when he got angry, he ended up punching through a brick wall with his fists. It was scarily similar to a knife through butter. They assigned him to you since he was the best trainer for creatures other than ponies.

Back then ponies had set up a fighting ring. Basically you’d pick somepony else to fight and everypony else would bet money on who’d they think would win. If you got into the ring you'd earn respect depending on if you win or not and how. Gem Striker was always there to watch, nopony was dumb enough to challenge him.

Except you.

You can’t remember much about that time. The idea of beating him even once in the ring would earn you so much respect that you had to try. Turns out the reason nopony challenged him was he didn't hold out in the ring. At all. You can remember getting into the ring, nodding to begin the fight, and then everything fell silent as your vision went black.

You awoke in the medical tent the next day with more than a simple headache. Nopony ever told you what happened. When you asked they’d say stuff like “You don’t want to know” or “It’s best if you forget that.” Even though you lost that fight, you still earned the title “Big balls” for trying. Even Gem Striker himself respected you more for it.

After recovering fully he trained you harder and harder until you finally managed to be an acceptable fighter in his own eyes.

It was a good story but these Wonderbolts didn't need to know it. Besides, who likes to brag about being beat up? Orange Sundae had even more questions for you, but you decide to ignore him and answer one of Fleetfoot’s questions instead. “How fast can you fly?”

This was a good question with a bad answer. You were a slow flyer, but that never stopped you from enjoying flight. Your endurance made up for your lack of speed. Below average speed yet above average endurance, this meant you could outfly ponies in a long distance endurance flights, but never in the short distance speed flights.

“I’ll be honest with you, I'm not a fast flier-” Before disappointment could set in you quickly continue the sentence- “BUT I can fly for hours even days without landing!”

Firestreak spoke next. “We should totally race sometime. Me, you, Soarin and maybe Spitfire if she ever gets out that damn shower. What do you say about that?”

“As long as we don’t speed race, yeah I’ll be up for that. Who’s the fastest Wonderbolt anyways?” You casually ask the group. Simultaneously Soarin, Fleetfoot and Firestreak all say “Wonder Wings” in complete sync. Orange Sundae was too busy styling his mane to notice your question.

“Though she doesn't fly with us anymore, she’s too busy with manager stuff.” Firestreak answered.

“Out of us though, I’d say Spitfire is the fastest.”

“I agree with Soarin, Spitfire is way fast.”

“Yeah, Spitfire could out fly me any day.”

“Hey everypony and gorgeous gryphon, I'm going to meet Sugar Dust at the shops cause I need to buy something. So if ya got anything else for the shopping list, tell me now before I head off.” Firestreak waves him off without saying a word. “Fine, I’ll be back in ten. Cya soon Lazuli” You watch as he goes out onto the balcony then takes off. Maybe being a Wonderbolt gives you privileges to fly in and out of this hotel like some cheap bar.

You feel a nudge in both your sides as you feel Firestreak sitting on your right and Fleetfoot on your left. Soarin was still close by but hadn't moved. “He totally fancies you haha” Firestreak agrees with Fleetfoot with a nod before laughing himself. “Definitely hahahahah.”

You take a look at them both blankly before actually believing what they said. “What? But I haven’t done anything. Why does he like me?” They both shrug before continuing to laugh at you. “Hey... It’s not funny!” You pout.

Fleetfoot looks you dead in the eyes before saying all seriously- “Gorgeous gryphon, pfft. He’ll be calling you Lazulmine next” The joke didn't click until a few moments. Then everypony started laughing. All four of you, three ponies and gryphon laughing together. From here on in you know this is going to be a fun group to be working with.

“AAHRHHHHH!! HOLY SHIT AAEEEIIIIHH!! FUCK!!” Horrific screaming and shouting silences the laughing instantly. The voice was coming from the bathroom. Who was in there again?

New home at the academy

You're sitting in a club with a few Wonderbolts, some fans and Derpy. She'd fallen asleep beside you, must have had a little too much to drink and nodded off. You could tell she was dreaming since she twitched against you occasionally. She's draped over you like a thick blanket, her arms wrapped around you tightly as if she's hugging a large teddy bear. You sit with an arm around her keeping her safe, you'd never forgive yourself if something happened to her.

Whenever you drank too much, you'd do stupid things for fun. (Like trying to convince a shopkeeper you're his son to get free gum.) Whenever Derpy had too much she'd like to talk about anything and everything. It was hard getting her to stop, that's why her quiet snoring was somewhat relaxing.

You hear a sudden change in the song and look over to notice a damp looking Spitfire approaching you. She takes a few sips of her drink and wipes her lips with a hoof, smiling the entire time. Her mane is disheveled and she looks a bit more than tipsy. “Ahh... Hey Lazuli, wanna hit the dance floor, the DJ's about to get this party really started. WOOO!" Her voice is really loud and filled with energy.

“Sorry Spitfire, I'm keeping an eye on this lightweight." You look down at Derpy and give her a one armed hug. Derpy was being your excuse to not dance today. Dancing isn't exactly your thing, not even a pound of salmon steaks could convince you to dance right now. Especially since you're already feeling dizzy after your sixth toffee buttered beer.

"Sure thing, If you change your mind, you know where to find me."

How'd you even get into this situation?

It all started a few days ago with Derpy bringing you a letter. It’s outstanding how something so small could leave such a big impact on someponies life.

The letter had been from Wonder Wings, the original founder of the Wonderbolts. She wanted to meet you later that day during a show at the Cloudsdale stadium.

Said show was in the evening and when you arrived somepony took you to an office suite where you ended up having a unique interview experience. This was when you were offered an amazing new job opportunity bodyguarding the Wonderbolts.

At the end of the interview you'd been told to meet the Wonderbolts at the Silver lining hotel, a fancy looking hotel in the rich district of Cloudsdale. Only four Wonderbolts were inside; Soarin, Fleetfoot, Firestreak and Orange Sundae, with another having a shower.

You had introduced yourself and explained things from your perspective. Everything was going great until screams were heard coming from the occupied bathroom.

“AAHRHHHHH!! HOLY SHIT AAEEEIIIIHH!! FUCK!!” Horrific screaming and shouting silences the laughing instantly. The voice was coming from the bathroom. Who was in there again?

SPITFIRE!!

You’re not exactly sure what instinct drives you but it has you jumping right into action. Rushing the lock on the bathroom door isn't easy. It's pretty strong but a few slightly painful shoulder bashes later it broke open.

What happens next pleasantly surprises you.

Spitfire's standing on her hind hooves in the corner of the shower pointing at the floor. You get a lovely unrestricted view of her sleek fiery body, hot water splashing down from the shower head, soaking her. Your eyes instinctively scan her form, starting at her mane then leisurely making their way down to her sex. Before you could say or do anything, something runs across one of your front claws, diverting you eyes and attention to the floor.

It was a rat.

A rat.

It takes a moment for your brain to process what's happening, frenzied laughter can be heard coming from behind you while the oblivious Wonderbolt captain stood ahead, opting to ignore them and instead awarding her decency to somepony who'd save her from the demonic death rodent. You take her offer like a feathered guardian.

The large brownish rat is sitting behind you. It seems to be just as frightened of Spitfire as she is of it. You take a moment to decide what to do. Turning around and looking down you decide to talk down the rat into releasing its hostage. “Listen here Rattus. I’m not sure what’s going on, but I think you should leave.”

The rat looks at you and squeaks. You don’t speak rat, but maybe it understands you. “Behind this hotel are some pretty big dustbins. You might find some nice nibbles if you head off now. I heard they had to scrap a load of cheese recently.” You look insane. You are insane. Talking to a rat, asking it to leave? As insane as it looks, it works. The rat squeaks at you once more before scurrying out of the window and onto the balcony before going about its way.

Spitfire is still frightened, but once the rat left her sight she decided to stand more proper. The other ponies are still laughing, either at Spitfire’s reaction, or at you talking to the rat, or both. Probably both.

You look back at the laughing ponies a moment before a very angry Spitfire storms her way towards them, not before checking the vicinity for signs of enemy movement. She begins to shout at them, seemingly ignoring you. “That’s it! We. Are. Leaving. Right now”

They all stop laughing instantly and begin judging her seriousness before coming to attention and yelling. “Yes Ma’am” At the same time. They start talking amongst themselves, deciding how they'll go about packing. Spitfire then heads towards you, still dipping wet and wearing a very angry facial expression. Her anger subsides and she embarrassingly looks down before talking.

“Thanks gryphon guy. Look... about what just happened.” You decide to be the good guy gryphon and not mock her. It's best if you could keep in the good books of each Wonderbolt. Especially if you'll be getting to know them personally. Especially the captain. Especially Spitfire!

“I’d be grateful if you could perhaps keep what you saw between us? It's not like I'm in that situation often.” If her ego took a hit you couldn't tell.

“It’s fine. I...I was surprised too..."

“Rats. I hate them. Anyways what exactly ARE you doing here gryphon? You one of Soarin’s fans? You really shouldn't be in here.”

You take the time to sit down before filling her in with details, you explain the letter, the meeting with Wonder Wings and how you ended up here. Strangely enough, Spitfire knew more about the situation than most, even more than you.

“So, you’re the new guy eh? I was wondering what you’d look like, never thought you’d be a gryphon though.” She taps her chin thoughtfully. “Wonder Wings is just as smart as she is a good flier. Follow me back to the academy, we’ll talk there. This place gives me the creeps.” She shivers at the word "creeps."

As you walked towards the door you hear a voice behind you. “New guy where're you going?”

“You’re not supposed to fly in this hotel, which means I have to climb down all those stairs and leave through the front door.”

“And this hotel was supposed to be rat free. It's a SIX star hotel! Why in Equestria do they have vermin in the bathrooms, I swear to Celestia-” She keeps talking, her words becoming mumbles. She then spreads her wings and runs onto the balcony and jumps off leaving a gust of wind and the faint noise of her ramblings behind.

You'd rather take the window than go down millions of stairs. You stretch your own wings, the satisfying sound of feathers being spread filling your ears. You walk past the sliding crystal glass doors onto the balcony and observe the outside. It's pretty cold. Spitfire is hovering outside, probably much colder than you due to still being damp from her shower. She gives a "follow me" gesture and you oblige. With a large jump and some gliding you're already flying beside Spitfire, her mane and tail blowing about in the chilling air.

The Wonderbolt academy isn't far from Cloudsdale, the others were probably already there. You liked to fly slowly though, and you did while following Spitfire. She seemed to be going slow too, either she wants to fly with you, or more likely prefers to fly at a more relaxed pace when not performing.

Once your built-in-night-vision kicks in you could see the distinctive plateau where the academy lay amongst a thick layer of heavy rain clouds. You fly right up beside Spitfire to talk. “Should we wait for it to pass?” Was your only question.

“Not afraid of a little rain are we new guy?” Spitfire was first to hit the wall of rain. She generated a light "pomf" sound when entering the heavy cloud. You follow after her, shielding your face with a claw.

It's raining much harder than it looked, you and Spitfire have both gotten soaked within seconds of being inside the cloud. Flying in rain isn't easy or fun, but thankfully there isn't any lightning to surprise you.

It's not long before you both land firmly on the academy premises. You follow a once again dripping wet Spitfire inside the main building.

The academy is massive. It's divided into two main sections, students and recruits. Recruits come to join the Wonderbolts, students come to learn. The academy isn't all about Wonderbolts and flying, it's an amazing academy for any pony. Only pegasi could naturally get to it though.

Each section has living quarters for both mares and stallions separately. There are plenty of classrooms either side and they both shared a mess hall and a large outside racetrack.

You and Spitfire aren't the only creatures taking shelter from the rain, inside are a couple late studying students, some wet, some dry. Spitfire took no time in waiting and heads down a corridor. You follow her, watching as students stop what they're doing and address her as Ma'am. She's obviously well respected.

On the other hoof was you. Almost everypony you passed was staring at you with mixed curiosity and concern. If gryphons look scary, they looked terrifying when soaked. Feathers drooped with the weight of water absorbed into them making you look wet, and angry.

Gryphons aren't exactly common outside the kingdom so most ponies haven't seen your kind before. You'd gotten used to the stares and awkward silences when the very same thing happened during your time in the military. Ignoring the many glares you quickly and quietly follow Spitfire.

A short walk later after passing Orange Sundae (Who gave you a wink) you realize Spitfire has taken you to her office. She was waiting at the door talking to a recruit about something before he runs off past you. "Alright new guy, it'll be warm inside so you can dry off, get in before you scare our recruits to death."

Inside her office was warm, almost hot. Your feathers already felt dryer. The dark red floor added extra heat into the small pale room. She has quite a few trophies and pictures littering multiple shelves. There are even a few typical Wonderbolt posters pinned to the walls. There's a sofa to one side, and a bookcase opposite. Her desk is rather small but is kept neat and tidy, she has two chairs either side for meetings. Behind her desk a large window overlooked the outside courtyard.

"Take a seat, I don't bite. Much. I'm kidding, I'm kidding, I just need to talk with you before you're allowed to wander the premises freely." You're not sure whether she meant the chair or sofa, but you wanted to lay down anyways so you take the sofa. Besides, Spitfire was being very laid back with you.

You wait for her to say something but she doesn't instead she starts drying her mane with a towel. Somepony knocks at the door before coming in, it was the recruit she was talking to earlier, he handed Spitfire a clipboard before leaving. "Hmm..." Is all she says while looking at the clipboard. Her expression turns to that of a pony trying to solve a puzzle.

"Well... unless you want to bunk with some stallions, you're gonna have to stay in the mare dormitories."

Wait.......What?

"Seems we're full of male recruits right now. Sucks to be you new guy."

"You're kidding right?" Is your short reply. They can't be full, the academy is huge!

"Like I said, the only single rooms available are in the mare dormitories. Unless you want to occupy a hostel with a few stallions, you'll have to suck it up and become a mare." She laughs. You're not exactly sure how to react. Before you get the chance to she continues talking.

"In fact, I'm just going to write your name down now." She scribbles onto the clipboard. "There, all done. You'll be staying next door to Apricot in sixteen and Lightning Dust in fourteen."

As much as you wanted to be disappointed with being stuck in the mare dormitories, you couldn't help but be grateful having your own room, in the mare dormitories. Hopefully you won't get mocked, though you doubt anypony would mock a gryphon.

You decide to speak instead of think for once. "Isn't it wrong for a male to be staying with the females? As awesome as it'd be being surrounded by all you mares, I'm pretty sure there are male and female dormitories for a reason."

Spitfire laughs again. "Hahah, yeah... that's true. If anypony asks, you're a very masculine gryphoness. Okay?"

"I'm pretty sure nopony would fall for that Spitfire." It's late, dark, raining and you're getting tired. You're simply not in the mood for jokes even if Spitfire is telling them.

"Don't worry, I'll let the mares know your cool. Just don't do anything too stupid and everything'll be fine. Your room number is fifteen if you weren't listening. We'll talk more in the morning, for now, go get some rest." Now that's exactly what you want. Sleep! Its already early morning and you've been up all day. Now is the perfect time to find a bed and hibernate a bit.

You knew your room number, but not the location, after wandering for thirty minutes or more, you finally end up in the female recruit dormitories. One, two, three, four you count each door in your head as you passed them until you finally reach fifteen. With a creak you open the door and slide inside quietly, trying to not wake anypony up. The room was spacious but void of most furnishing. You could fix that later, right now the only thing you needed was right here. A bed.

After closing the door you can't help release a soft sigh. Your room is a dark green, with a turquoise floor and curtains. Your bed is all but a mattress, but at least it's a big mattress. You don't need a blanket to stay warm, your feathers take care of that nicely. Closing your tired eyes you can feel your body relaxing and preparing itself for sleep. You yawn once before sleep finally takes you.

You don't snore.

The next day you're awoken by warm strips of sunlight escaping through a gap between the curtains. Warmth against your face prompts you to open your tired eyes and yawn softly.

"Hiya Lazuli."

You literally jump out of your feathers and bed causing you to land face first on the floor with a loud thump. "Oww..."

You hear a familiar giggle. "I brought you a muffin."

You roll over and rub your face. "Uggh... Derpy?! What are you doing here?" What was she doing here? You rub your eyes and look at her intently just to be sure you're not dreaming. Sure enough, Derpy is real, and she's really has a muffin for you. A chocolate chip one!

"My job silly. I got an order by a miss Pennyfull to deliver some stuff from your apartment, and when i saw your name on the address I had to bring my friend a morning muffin!" You sit up and take the chocolate chip muffin after saying thanks, Derpy herself still has more to say. "So you moving into the academy or something? because its awful strange moving stuff from one place to another if your not living there."

Before you can answer her, another pegasus appears. It's Raindrops, Derpy's parcel partner. Turns out moving furniture is a two pegasus job. After a small conversation between the two mares, Raindrops heads off while Derpy turns and looks at you again. "Where do you want your sofa and fridge?"

You couldn't care less right now, all you wanted to do was sleep. You gesture for Derpy to put them anywhere. "Just... Well, bring them in, I'll arrange them later." Raindrops comes back with a bunch of files that belonged to you, she drops them off at the bottom of your bed before her and Derpy leave to get your sofa and fridge.

The sofa was today's first problem, Derpy and Raindrops had an end each but still manage to get it stuck in the doorframe. You weren't in the mood to have two mares pushing a sofa uselessly through your door. Instead you dropped your files, and go to help Raindrops. With a bit of effort it's not long before you push it past the door, with a slight thump you finally had the whole thing through. Your couch had been with you awhile. Even though it was old and slightly worn, the blue colour matched your wing feathers and would fit into your new room well.

Next was your fridge, the duo of mailmares had no trouble getting that into your room, it was only a small fridge. You waste no time and move both items into appropriate places, sofa against the wall, fridge beside it. It'll serve as a drinks cooler and a table top.

Both mares leave yet again and when they come back had a box each. After laying them down on the floor Derpy dusts off her hooves. You presume those boxes contain your few pieces of clothing and other miscellaneous items.

"Well, that's that. You sure don't have much stuff Lazuli." She's right, but that never bothered you. You preferred experiences and memories over possessions.

"Yeah, I don't need much. Thanks again Derpy. I think I'm going to go back to sleep."

"Okay sleepy head, I'll leave you alone then." She smiles and pats your head before Raindrops tells her they've got more deliverys to make. They both leave you sitting on your bed in your now slightly furnished room. You take a look at your muffin and smile. Derpy was such a character, you're glad she's your friend. You laugh to yourself and place the chocolate chip muffin on top of the fridge, you'll eat that later.

You take the silence as an opportunity and lay back down on your bed. You slide the files off the bed and begin thinking about other things you could move into your new room. A filing cabinet is always useful, bookshelves with books would look good, a desk and a few chairs like Spitfire had would make your room more professional, and a rug couldn't hurt. Most importantly is to get some blankets for your bed, especially since it can get real cold during Winter.

You close your eyes again.

After what felt like a nap, another mare decides to come into your room unannounced. This time it's Spitfire, you're already somewhat awake so she couldn't surprise you as much as Derpy did. She sits down on your newly acquired sofa and puts her hooves up. "I've got lots of explaining to do, so you better be listening."

You sit up and blink a few times before nodding. "There being no room in the stallion dormitories wasn't the only reason I assigned you this room. Every weekend the recruits and us Wonderbolts have a competition. Mares against Stallions. Since you're in here with us mares, I think you're on our team. The stallions have had an advantage of competing numbers to us mares, but having you on our team would be one more body to help us snatch victory in tonight's game." She seems to be filled with determination.

It's nice to be wanted, but you can't help but state the obvious. "I'm a male gryphon. Staying here is easy enough to explain with the shortage of rooms, but I have no reason to be on your team."

Spitfire thinks for a moment before sitting up and crossing her hooves. "Okay, how about this then, I'll just announce it as the mare dorms versus the stallion dorms. Since you're here with us in the mare dormitories, you'll be on our team."

"I don't know Spitfire, seems like you're bending the rules."

"Aww...Come on new guy. I mean, Lazuli. With your background, we'd win tonight's tug-of-war no problem. Pleeeaaase! The winner gets a reward and the stallions have an unfair number advantage over us, you'd make up for that. It'll be making it fair. Come on Laz."

"It still sounds like cheating Spitfire. If I do decide to join in, what exactly do I get out of this?"

"Look, how about...I give you something in return?"

This sounds promising.

"I don't really have anything you'd want right now, so instead I'll give you an I.O.U that you can redeem anytime, not to mention tonight's winners all get tickets to an exclusive nightclub in Cloudsdale, you'd be the only guy there, cool yeah?"

That sounds like the perfect reward. Spitfire, the captain of the Wonderbolts giving you an I.O.U would easily be the best thing since sliced bread. And don't forget you'll get a ticket to a club too. If you're team wins You now have no reason to say no, and all the reasons to say yes. "Hmm...What the hell, sure. I'll help, but I can't guarantee we'll win."

Spitfire jumps up and hoof pumps the air. "We'll win, I just know it." An I.O.U will prove infinitely useful in the coming days, especially an I.O.U from Spitfire. She can almost guarantee you anything you want.

As if Spitfire could read your mind she honours her side of the deal and plucks a single fiery flight feather from her wing with only a slight "Ow." She gives the fiery feather to you. "That's my I.O.U ticket, use it wisely."

You could sell this for a small fortune. There're ponies out there that'd pay good money for a feather from Spitfire let alone an I.O.U. Instead you decide to keep the ticket for future use. "Thanks Spitfire, this'll come in handy when I need a massage"

Spitfire grins. "Don't treat it so casual new guy, I don't part with my feathers easily."

"Sure. So when's this game?"

"After dinner outside in the courtyard, until then you're free to have a look about the academy. I'll tell the other mares you're ready to kick butt tonight, until then Laz."

"Yeah? Aright then, Cya later Spitfire." She leaves you alone to slump down onto your bed. You hold the distinctive fiery feather up to the light. Spitfire sure has beautiful feathers, you feel slightly warmer just holding it. You now have all day with Spitfire's permission to explore the academy.

After another ten minutes of laying down lazily you finally wake up properly. Taking a deep breath of air helps you feel refreshed, you also stretch to help your muscles relax. You put your newly acquired orange feather under your pillow for safe keeping. You then leave your room to begin exploring.

The smell of fresh cooking draws you into the mess hall where students and recruits gathered for their meals. You're hungry and could do with a snack before the competition later. You can't smell any salmon but you can still have some hay fires. Pony food wasn't bad, salmon was just better.

The mess hall is huge. There are four rows of large tables with enough seats for ten ponies each side. At the opposite end of the room is the kitchen were busy chef ponies are cooking all sorts of delicious food. Every weekend the kitchen staff would cook a buffet for anypony staying at the academy overnight.

Today's a Saturday.

There are already a few ponies eating, you even notice a few batponies at the far end of the hall. You don't often see them during the day, maybe the peaches and other succulent fruits brought them here.

Each and seemingly every pony took their time to examine the new gryphon. You sigh and head towards the buffet, a number of ponies moving to the side allowing you past freely. You can almost smell the submissive behaviour. "Ugh." Is the only noise to escape your beak.

The buffet looked amazing, all sorts of raw and cooked food sprawled across a large table. There's so much colour, green, red, blue. So many fruits and vegetables, not much meat obviously, and no fish. Maybe you an put in a request for some fresh fish later. You take a plate and gather some of the food not caring what it is and leave to sit at a table. You'll find out what you picked soon enough, you just wanted to sit peacefully. You hunch down trying to make yourself as small as possible to avoid attention.

Without a moments notice another plate of food is placed next to you. "Hey new guy."

The pegasus now sitting beside you is a cyan mare with a two tone yellowy mane and tail. "The name's Lightning Dust, I'm in room fourteen, next door to you." You smile, you didn't really want company right now, but she seems nice enough. She at least managed to approach you without fear.

"I'm-" You try to speak, but once again you get interrupted. What was it with these ponies finishing your sentences?

"Lazuli, I know. Spitfire said there's a new gryphon at the academy, she also said you're gonna help us kick some butt tonight." You nod, before looking back the the other ponies some still staring.

"Pfft...Ignore them, they'll get used to you in no time. I had the same thing when I joined."

"Why? you look pretty normal to me."

"Nah, It was nothing to do with my good looks. Instead it was because I got kicked out before. I wasn't being a very good team member, so when I told them I'd changed and finally got accepted back, everypony was skeptical. I proved them wrong though, so here I am. Again." That's a pretty cool story you thought, motivating to say the least. "We don't get many gryphons here, actually you'll the only one I've seen. So what's your reason to be here academy?"

"Bodyguard for the Wonderbolts." You say before putting some easily recognizable lettuce in your mouth.

"What? You serious? Awesome! Come on, hoof wrestle." She responds by swapping to the other side of the table and putting her hoof in a "prime hoof wrestling position."

You blink a few times with some lettuce poking out of your beak. You swallow hard. "What? really? Right here? Right now?"

"Not afraid to be beaten by a mare are you?"

You grin and grip her hoof with your claw. "You're on." By this time a few other ponies had begun to watch, at a distance naturally. This must be an interesting scenario to watch.

"You ready for an ass whoop'n Lazi?" You eyes widen at the thought of the new nickname, but it doesn't manage to distract you for too long.

You ready yourself then give her a sly grin before counting down. "Three. Two. One. GO!"

You wanted to test her strength before trying, so you hold back. She does the exact opposite and tries to catch you off guard by instantly pushing with most if not all of her strength. Her muscles begin to strain and you could feel it, yet you have no trouble holding her back. You already knew you'd won and laugh quietly, she obviously hears you.

"Aww... come on, not fair" She keeps trying, you keep resisting. After a few moments you decide you've had enough fun and start to push her hoof down tortuously slow.

"No. No, no, no no no." You felt a burst of strength come from her and for a moment stop winning. It was until you looked at her you thought she was using one hoof, now though, she was using both, yet still unable to push your claw back.

Gryphons are stronger than the average pony, and you had plenty of training with the military to build muscles. You don't train particular often, but when you did you always spent an entire day doing so. Exercising is refreshing, add that to a morning shower and you've got the makings of a morning routine.

You yawn nonchalantly and smile. Ever so slowly you lower your claw until it finally has Lightning Dust's own hooves against the table surface. "Damn It!" She shouts after banging the table.

You go back to eating your salad, which to your surprise tastes much better now. "You're pretty strong, we'll totally win tonight's game. Glad you're with us and not against us."

"Mmmhm" Was all you could say with a mouthful of green food. By looks on the faces of nearby ponies, they too want to test their strength against a gryphon but aren't able to muster the courage to approach you. Lightning Dust gets up and only now do you notice she didn't eat any food on her plate.

"I'll you see tonight Lazuli, have a good one." She walks away and waves a hoof behind her back towards you.

You add more lettuce to the other greens in your beak and chew just as another pony shouts your name. The voice is very flamboyant and unmistakably Orange Sundae's. He's standing at the buffet besides Firestreak. He tries to come towards you before Firestreak pulls him back and says something to him. Whatever Firestreak said stopped Orange Sundae advancing and instead he waves. You wave back.

Better finish your food before he decides to sit beside you.

The few hours after your meal you spent exploring and introducing yourself to anypony who dared approach you.

Word spreads fast and already everypony seems to think your going to be some sort of security officer. You're already getting more respect. Ponies acknowledge you with nods and even a few bows whenever you passed them, but few volunteered to talk. Thankfully you're not getting nearly as many judging stares anymore.

While exploring you managed to find a gym, you take a mental note of the location so you can get some exercise later. There are a few ponies inside, one of which you recognizes and recognizes you back. He stops doing his crunches and walks over, leaving the gym room to talk to you in the hall. His green eyes bright in the artificial light.

"Hey Lazuli, it's me Soarin, from yesterday? We met at the Silver lining hotel before Spitfire had her panic attack."

"Yeah, I remember you Soarin. So what' up?" He's looking quite sweaty and disheveled.

"Nothing much, just wanted to see how you're settling in. Everything okay so far?"

"Yeah, Spitfire has put me on the mares team for tonight's competition though." You warned him.

"What? Why? I don't want to be up against you."

"Since I'm staying in the mare dormitories she says I'm on their team-"

"You're staying with the mares?!" You can't help feel a little embarrassed.

"Y-Yeah, it's not like I choose to... Spitfire checked and there's no single rooms anywhere else, so I'm stuck with them."

"You lucky bastard." Is all he says before he hangs a hoof around your neck and takes you for a walk, destination, unknown.

"What do you mean by that? It's not like they get en-suit bathrooms and butlers."

"Let me explain why you're lucky. You're with the mare recruits right?" You nod slowly, waiting to see what he had to say.

"You're basically a lone male living with a group of sexy mares. If it were Summer, you'd already know what that means."

Soarin spends the next hour walking with you in random directions while explaining why each mare was hot in his eyes. "Lightning Dust has a nice ass, Fleetfoot, have you seen her smile, it's a-m-a-zing! Apricot is-" He went through a list of mares, half of which you'd not met yet. You just nodded and pretended to listen. He really knew his mares.

"What about Spitfire?" You ask somewhat curious to why he hadn't mentioned her yet.

"I... Urmm...I'm not allowed to talk about her like that, last time she found out I got toilet cleaning duty for three months."

"Nopony will know, trust me. I just want to know what you think about her."

He looks around before leaning in closer. "Well, I hear she's dynamite in-"

"SOARIN!" An angry voice calls out from down the hall. You can feel the feathers on your neck stand on end. He immediately gulps a mouthful of air and walks over to the voice. You already know who it is but you had to be sure. You turn and watch as Soarin approaches her.

Spitfire and Soarin talk for awhile before he nods and sheepishly returns. "That was a close call, I thought she'd have my balls for sure." He let's out a loud sigh.

"So what'd she want then?"

"Oh, I was supposed to give a lecture on flight safety about an hour ago. Apparently they've been waiting for me this entire time." You both laugh at the stupidity of the moment. "Well, I've got to get my team ready for the tug-of-war, you better go chat with Spitfire. Cya on the battlefield Lazuli."

After waving Soarin off you head in the direction Spitfire was only moments ago.

Crowds have already gathered to watch the match. You manage to overhear a conversation between two young looking stallions. "Spitfire could totally kick Soarin ass"

"No way dude, Soarin is rock solid, just you watch. He's going to win the game on his own."

"Doubt it, he's against Spitfire and that new gryphon."

"Soarin could take on that gryphon with a hoof tied behind his back."

You roll your eyes before Spitfire waves you over. "Aright new guy, you know how this game works. Grab the rope and pull. Simple. All we have to do is hold out long enough to ware down the guys, then we'll take the advantage."

Spitfire begins giving orders to each mare getting them into a formation. You're last in line and have a nice cyan butt ahead, you can't help recall what Soarin said earlier. "Lightning Dust has a nice ass"

"You can stare all you want after we win this game" You detect a hint of sarcasm coming from Lightning Dust's voice. Shaking your head free from perversion you take the opportunity to check out the opposition.

You recognized a few stallions, Soarin, Firestreak, and Orange Sundae (who had noticed you looking and started waving) are all easily spotted. They all have their games faces on, you can already feel your body tensing. You're too busy examining your opponents to notice the whistle indicating the start of the game.

Before you knew what's happening your team have already been pulled a few hoof paces ahead. You salvage the moment and get a strong grip of the rope, digging your back paws into the ground halting any more movement.

You can feel the strength of each individual trying their hardest to win. It's not long before the initial rush begins to subside. You're only getting warmed up. With a few strong pulls as confirmation you can move the rope, you decide to give a shot at bragging. Tapping Lightning Dust on the back gains her attention.

"Hey Lightning Dust, watch this." In one mass of effort you put all your weight into a single pull. The opposition didn't know what hit them. You manage to drag about a meter of rope onto your team's side while simultaneously creating a bunch of rope burn for your opponents. You'd not won yet, but you and few mares already started laughing.

Using any and all remaining energy you and your team pull. Both teams are panting and starting to tire, even you could feel the strain, but the reward for your effort was showing, your team had gained the advantage. You're still laughing, the look of horror on the faces of each and every stallion was a story. They're about to be beaten by the mares. At a strength game.

You'd already won the game, it was just a matter of time before your team had the entire rope. With the amount of energy they have left compared to yourself, the stallions had no way of winning.

With one last pull your team steals the entire rope.

As soon as victory had been achieved both the mares and stallions lay down on the ground trying to catch their breath. It didn't feel like it but the game was strenuous. You too are panting, wiping any sweat from your brow you sit down beside your team. You listen into the crowd again and catch those two stallions talking. "Wooo! I told you Spitfire would win"

"You're just lucky the mares had that gryphon."

"Nah, Spitfire was the one who won the game. Now pay up, ten bits just like you promised."

"Sure sure... Next time it has to be fair though."

Their conversation continues even after you stop listening.

You're standing outside a club with Derpy beside and your winning team already going in, presenting tickets to the bouncer. Spitfire says something to him and points at you. Probably explaining why you're allowed to be apart of mares only night at the club.

"Aright Derpy, try to behave, I don't want you getting into any trouble okay?"

She nods quickly causing her eyes to move places. "Mmmhmm"

After handing your tickets over you go inside and get greeted by flashy lights and loud music. The floor was chequered red and purple, and all the flashing lights are shades of red, orange, yellow or pink. The music was some type of rave and you recognize the DJ as Vinyl Scratch, or DJ Pon3 as her stage name.

No wonder each team wanted to win the tug-of-war.

Derpy immediately runs off into the crowd, leaving you alone with your thoughts. "Tonight's gonna be a long night, I better take it easy if I want to stay alert. Do I even want to stay alert?" At either end of the dance floor are tables and chairs , some with, some without ponies. You go to the bar and order yourself a butter beer before sitting at an unoccupied table.

It's nice to sit watching your team party hard. They're really enjoying themselves tonight.

A few fans were also allowed in, they took no time in picking their favourite Wonderbolts and getting them drinks, dancing and talking with them. You keep an eye out for any misbehaving fans, so far, so good.

Hours pass while you sit at your table, ponies come over to chat and drink with you, then continued partying. It wasn't long before you finish your sixth toffee buttered beer and start feeling a little dizzy. Toffee buttered beer isn't exactly strongly alcoholic but you've had plenty of them. It's not like you ordered them all yourself, everypony that came over brought you a new one. Someone must've snitched that you love toffee beers.

Half way through the night Derpy came over to talk and talk and talk and talk until she finally dozed off. Probably because she drank too much, she's obviously had a great night. You hear a sudden change in the song and look over to notice a cheerful Spitfire approaching you. She takes a few sips of her drink and wipes her lips with a hoof, smiling the entire time. Her mane is disheveled and she looks more than tipsy.

“Ahh... Hey Lazuli, wanna hit the dance floor, the DJ's about to get this party really started. WOOO!" Her voice is loud but filled with energy.

“Sorry Spitfire, I'm keeping an eye on this lightweight." You look down at Derpy and give her a slight hug. Derpy was being your excuse to not dance today. Dancing isn't exactly your thing, not even a pound of salmon steaks could convince you to dance right now. Especially since you're already feeling dizzy after your sixth toffee buttered beer. "Actually, I was thinking of taking this silly mare home. She's been out cold for awhile now."

"Yeah, go ahead. I'll meet you back at the academy, I've still got some victory to bathe in."

You nudge Derpy to see how deep of a sleep she's in. She's not waking up anytime soon. You lift her over your shoulders. "Come Derpy, let's get you somewhere quiet." Unfortunately you don't know where she lives, so for tonight only she'll be staying in your new room at the academy.

Having a passenger forces you to take a slower route to the academy. Being tipsy doesn't impair your memory and you manage to find your room with ease. Inside you put Derpy on your bed in the most natural looking position possible. She's been snoring the whole journey.

A yawn prompts you to lay on your sofa and rest. It's not long before your eyelids feel heavy and you let sleep take you.

You're first to wake up and you can already feel something pounding in your head. Slowly trying to sit up, you want to check if Derpy is still alive. That's when you notice you've been sleeping on the floor, and Spitfire is beside you, her wings over your back. Her face smiling while drooling onto the floor.

Whoops.

Exotic fears

"Lazuli! Hold it right there! I know you can hear me." You can indeed hear the voice coming from behind but pretend not to. You take the next turn around a corner and begin running. The only place you want to be, is away from that voice.

The corridor is bare, the only things present are lockers on either wall and a recognizable cyan mare who's busy taking somethings out of her own locker further down. You run straight towards her. "Lightning Dust! you've got to hide me. Right now! PLEASE!" You plead.

She looks at you confused, deciding exactly what to do. You both hear hoof steps coming from around the corner you just passed. Lightning Dust immediately pushes you into her locker and slams the door. You're not sure how you fit inside a locker, but what you are sure of is that Lightning Dust slammed her locked closed, on your tail causing you to yelp out in pain.

Right then Spitfire appears around the corner only seconds later. She canters down the corridor right up to Lightning Dust. She looks passed her only to be greeted by an empty hallway. She sighs in disappointment. "Lightning Dust, the new guy, Lazuli... Ermm... Remember, I told you about him yesterday, he's the gryphon, the blue gryphon. He just came this way and I swear I could have heard him just now."

"Urmm... He... Ermmm... Ran passed me, yeah... He said something about being late."

"Late? Damn it, I've been looking for him all morning. If you see him, tell him I'm looking for him." Spitfire leaves Lightning Dust and continues galloping down the empty corridor in search of you.

Lightning Dust waits for Spitfire to disappear from her sight before looking at you through the small gaps in the top of her locker. Her stare contained both suspicion and concern. You whisper through the gaps. "Is she gone?"

Without saying a word she opens the locker door forcing you to stumble out and onto the floor with a thud. "Are you going to explain what just happened?"

You compose yourself. The feathers on your neck suddenly feel itchy and you can't help but rub them. You say nothing. "Come on, you owe me. The very least you can do is explain why I sent Spitfire away."

Lightning Dust sounds convincing enough, you decide to trust her with the explanation she wants. "Okay okay, just don't tell anypony aright?" She nods hesitantly. "Remember the party last night?"

"Wait! Don't tell me. I know this. You were both drunk right?"

"Well... Yes.. No... Wait let me explain. I brought my friend home after she drank too much, I let her have my bed. And when I woke up this morning, Spitfire was sharing my room too. She was kind of drunk last night and I wasn't much better. I can't remember how she got there. And now-"

"And now your hiding from her?" You nod, completely aware of how bad this could be.

"I might be able to help you. For a price."

"How?" You ask.

"How about I talk with her? Maybe figure out what she wants, or if anything happened between you two love birds. All I ask is an I.O.U in return." Are I.O.U's used currency or something?

"Fine, just get as much information as you can. And be quick I can't keep hiding forever." She rolls her eyes and puts her hoof out waiting for you to honour your side of the bargain. You spread your left wing and with the use of your claws, pluck a single feather out.

You hand her the large blue feather "Please bring back some good news."

"I'll bring back the truth. I'll be in my room in two hours. Meet me there."

"Two hours!? Why's it gonna take so long?" You ask out of interest and concern. How can you stay hidden from Spitfire for two whole hours?

"Well, I've got class for an hour, and then I have to find her, and then I have to ask her questions."

"Class on the weekend?"

"It's not exactly voluntarily."

"I won't ask, anyways, I'll just try to keep hiding."

"Good luck."

"I'll need It, oh and thanks, you really saved me back then."

"No sweat. Now if you don't mind, I've got class. My room, two hours."

"Got it." She heads off in Spitfire's direction while you think about where you can hide for two hours.

You're sitting under a table in the mess hall with only a thin tablecloth keeping you hidden. Spitfire is talking to some young looking students, probably asking If they'd seen you. They have. You lift the tablecloth slightly, just enough to look out. Thankfully Spitfire's back is towards you, on the other hoof, the students could see you just fine.

Before any of them could point you out, you give them a menacing look of despair while shaking you head and mouthing the words. "Don't you dare." You must look scary as both students can't talk and instead shake their heads enthusiastically at Spitfire, who just drops her own head slightly with disappointment. She leaves giving you enough time to finish eating your meal.

You exit your current hiding place and sit at the table instead of under it. Soarin and Firestreak are sitting beside you. "Why are you hiding from Spitfire?" Asks Firestreak.

"I found Spitfire in my room this morning, I have no recollection how she got there."

"I bet you both got drunk at that party." Soarin replies with minimal pie projectiles.

"Well, yeah... But I left Spitfire at the party. I'm not sure how she ended up beside me."

"YOU and SPITFIRE did the nasty in the pasty?!" Firestreak shouts, causing a table of nearby ponies to giggle.

You can't help but snicker too. "Nooo... No... No... No... No... No... No... Yes? I don't know, but I'm avoiding her until I know for sure. I wasn't THAT drunk. I was sober enough to bring my other friend home safely. Firestreak's jaw drops leaving his mouth wide open in shock. You stick some of your salad in.

"Sorry guys, I need to meet Lightning Dust in five minutes, I've got to go. Thanks for the hiding place." They both look at each other shocked, you pat them once each and leave.

You find your way into Lightning Dust's room a few minutes early and decide to go inside and wait. Lightning Dust's room is smaller than yours, much smaller, but she still managed to get a big bed, a table with chairs and a wardrobe in. The colours are the same as your room, dark green with a turquoise floor.

You casually jump onto her bed and lay on your back waiting patiently.

It feels like hours have passed. You're bored, tired and anxious. Why would a beautiful drunk mare end up in your room late at night? Besides the obvious reason. You swallow some air.

The door opens, Lightning Dust comes in and quickly closes it. "Good news, and bad news. What do you want to hear first?"

"Good news." Is all you say.

"You didn't sleep with Spitfire."

"Pewth." Is all you manage to say before a sigh of relief occupies all the space in your lungs. "Good news, AND bad news? W...What's the bad news then?"

"You didn't sleep with Spitfire."

"I asked for the bad news, not the good news again. Or is this some kind of joke?"

"You dun goofed Lazi. You missed out on a great opportunity, Spitfire is know for many things besides being the captain of the Wonderbolts. All I know is she's fast, flexible, got lots of energy and any stallion would be crazy to say no to that. If you know what I mean..." She nudges your side with her hoof. "Heck even I'd Lik-"

You quickly interrupt her. "I don't know about you pony folks, but us gryphons tend to mate for life. Basing that on a single drunken night would be insane. Besides it'd be selfish taking advantage of an intoxicated mare." You had an invaluable point and the moral high ground, and Lightning Dust knew it. Nobody can beat the moral high ground.

She rolls her eyes before shouting. "Traditions be dammed!" She's looking up at the ceiling with a hoof raised. You don't quite get the reference but laugh anyways.

"Anyways you should talk to Spitfire about what really happened. It'll be best if you hear it from her and not me, she'll want to thank you."

"Thank me? Why- Oh right, I'll go find her then. Thanks for everything though."

"I wouldn't thank me, I've got my own agenda. Remember..." She waves your own blue feather at you. "...I'm going to have SO much fun with this."

"Sure." You smile worryingly. She better not make you do anything too stupid or embarrassing.

While walking around the academy premises doing as Lightning Dust suggested; looking for Spitfire, a sudden hoof touch to the shoulder startles you. Turning around reveals it to be exactly who you were previously running from. "Uh hey Spitfire. What's... What's up?" Her somehow sneaking up on you catches you off guard and you trying to sound nonchalant fails miserably.

"Damn it Lazuli, I've been looking ALL over the academy for you, thought you might have flow away or been kidnapped. Come to my office now, I've got something for you."

Spitfire doesn't say another word until you both arrive outside her office. You just go straight in, embracing the incoming warmth. This time, her desk's tidy appearance had been ruined by sheets of scattered paper. "I don't know why you've be hiding from me all day, but I've needed to talk with you about tomorrows routine. It is technically your first day on the job after all."

OH! That's what she wants to talk about? That's much better than the alternative. "Right. What exactly do you want to talk about Spitfire Ma'am?"

A sudden seductive voice changes the mood. "Well~ Since I've got you all alone now~" Hey tone normalizes before finishing the sentence. "I want to talk about why you've been avoiding me all day?"

How exactly do you explain that you thought maybe you had slept with her while she was drunk last night? You Lie! Obviously. "I've not been avoiding you... I've just been... Busy!"

"Busy with what exactly?" You can feel her stare melting your willpower into some sort of mental soup.

"I was... Ermm... Busy with... Something." You can't concentrate due her interrogating attitude, but just as you're about to break Spitfire bursts into sudden but inevitable laughter.

"Oh Lazuli, you're hilarious. The truth is you thought we got all hot and steamy together last night." She grins. "When I got back, apparently I went looking for your room, waking quite a few ponies up in the process. When I got to you room I started flirting with you. Crazy right? Anyways, you offered to let me stay in your room so nopony could take advantage of drunk me, then you went and said you were going to sleep outside for the night which caused me to shout something about needing senpai to notice me. I have no clue what that means."

You look at her stunned. Sounds like one hell of a night. "How do you know this is all true? Do you have cameras or something?"

"This was all explained to me by Apricot. Your next-door roomy, who I woke up trying to find your room. I trust her, she's seen drunk me a few times before." You're not sure what to say, but before you can think of anything she continues. "Anyways you helped drunk me, I appreciate that. Now you can stop hiding from me and talk about tomorrow." She puts her hoof on the papers present on her table. "These are the timetables of each Wonderbolt, you need to get yourself familiar with these."

You take a look at the papers, you couldn't understand them since they're upside down so you turn a few around. They have the names of the Wonderbolts, days, times, places and what they should be doing.

Monday- Soarin- 10:00am Racetrack- Exercising.

Monday- Fleetfoot- 3:00pm Class 4- Wing anatomy.

Wednesday- Soarin- 8:00am N/A- Break.

Friday- Spitfire- 10:00pm Conference room 1- Weekly recap

There are plenty of names, days, times and activities, this will be some hard revision.

She puts a small bag of gems, a blue vest with the word "security" in white writing, a blue helmet with a tinted visor, a single dark gold key and an ankle belt with an attached baton onto her desk. You look at each item and can't help but feel it's all a bit unnecessary. "Do I really need these?"

"Security for the Security. You don't have to use anything, but I think you'll look cute in all that gear." She gives you a wink before continuing. "The gems are pacifying gems, you just throw them into the ground hard and they stun nearby critters, whether rats or ponies. Don't try to use them on clouds though."

"And the key? Wait, is this a skeleton key that unlocks any door?!" You can't help sound hopeful.

"Kinda, it's enchanted to work on any door in the academy. I use it to get around quickly, but you should have it. Just don't use it too irresponsibly."

"Obviously" You say simply.

"Besides, they're making me a replacement key."

You gather the equipment and begin wearing it before Spitfire could think about changing her mind. You click the ankle belt onto your left front leg and stick the baton into it's holder and the golden key into a small pocket. The helmet makes you look tenacious but you can't help feel ridiculous wearing it, there are holes in the top for your ears to stick out of. The vest fits snugly with gaps for your wings but is padded thickly, wearing this all day will overheat you easily. (Maybe even melt you)

You pull the visor down on the helmet and pull out your baton. "So, how do I look?" You want to check a mirror but there's none here. You instead twirl and wait for Spitfires comment. "Not bad. You'd look better with a sword, but I can't give you one, so that'll have to do." She actually sounds sincere.

You feel well protected and look rather forceful wearing this equipment. You want to go and abuse your newly acquired position and scare some recruits, Lightning Dust will appreciate a prank right? "Are there any secret places I should or shouldn't know about?"

"The third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds to everypony who does not wish to die a most painful death"

"What?!"

"I'm just kidding, wow. You should've seen the look on your face." She laughs at you yet again.

"Anyways, that's all I wanted to say, I was gonna give you these timetables earlier so you could start memorizing them." You gather all the papers and fold them enough to fit into your ankle belt.

"Oh I want you to check on each Wonderbolt tomorrow so take this map, it'll help you find your way around until you figure this place out." You grab the map and give it a quick once over. It looks complicated with multiple levels and buildings separated on the thin paper. Everything is labelled correctly though, helping you figure out exactly what your looking at.

"You can go now officer, you've got everything you need, unless you want to stay and watch me doing crappy paper work."

"I'll pass, thanks for everything, you've been really nice to me these past few days."

"Just helping a friend. Oh, and before i forget. Please don't call me Ma'am, i get that plenty with the recruits. It makes me feel old."

A smile forms on your face. "Yes Miss" You laugh and flee, hearing a faint "OI" in the distance. After calming down it dawns on you how hot her office really is. Being out here, makes you feel cold in comparison.

With hours left in the day, a universal key, and a new uniform, you can't help feel adventuress. With one last thought you go exploring. "How old is Spitfire exactly?"

It's late afternoon before long, the sun is beginning to set as a blanket of darkness wraps the academy in a tight embrace. You're sitting in Lightning Dusts room still wearing your new uniform, there has been no reason to take it off, besides, you liked it.

You've spent a few hours getting to know your neighbour in room 16, talking about anything and everything ranging from the Wonderbolts themselves to favourite cake flavours. Lightning Dust is nice, she has a bit of an ego but nothing you can't handle. She's been a rather helpful friend so far. A long conversation later you're tired and almost falling asleep in her room. You know you've got to patrol tomorrow and since it'll be the first day you need to be fully alert and looking professional.

"Aright Lightning Dust, I'm going to bed now, I've got to be up early in the morning for my patrols. You doing anything special tomorrow?" You had to ask, maybe you could spot her during your patrols.

"Seriously boring stuff. I've mostly got classes indoors but later I've got some wing training with Soarin so, I'll be outside at the racetrack with a group of lame recruits."

"Aright." You yawn before continuing. "I'll see you later, maybe I'll be allowed to get some practice in too, I doubt it though, first day after all."

"We'll see, it's been nice chatting." She replies about to yawn in response to your own yawning.

You sleepily open your own door and after closing it you hear a voice coming from your bed. No matter who's invaded your privacy, you feel far too tired to care and instead want to sleep. "Security officer Lazuli, just who I've been waiting for."

You take off your vest, helmet and ankle belt, placing each of them onto your couch. Then talk. "Don't call me that Spitfire, Lazuli works just fine thanks. Unless you want me calling you Ma'am? Now unless you want to join me in bed, I suggest you leave while I rest. Big day tomorrow after all."

"As much as I'd love to spend another amazing night with you, I'm here because I forgot to mention how you should wander the academy tomorrow, there are specific routes you should take when-" Ever word she says simply goes in one ear and out the other, you're too tired to understand anything right now.

You always had a bad habit for not caring about anything or anyone while tired. Once you managed to steal a commanding officers bed because it was nicer to sleep in. You were allowed, it became common knowledge to avoid a tired you. Your birdie brain never liked to work late.

You walk over to your bed ignoring everything else including Spitfire and the papers laying across said bed. You fall ceremonially face first onto your bed causing some papers to fly out in random directions and others to crumple underneath you. You talk into the bed. "Goodnight Spitfire."

"Hey, I'm not going anywhere until I've explained what-"

"Stay if you like, I'm sleeping."

"No you're not-" You ignore her. "Hey, listen to me. I need to explain what you'll be looking out for, are you even paying attention?"

You respond without looking, swinging a claw up and letting gravity decide where it lands. "You should really listen, this is important-ish."

You groan, and again move your arm like a wet pool noodle and accidentally pat her butt this time. Soft. You don't care what you just did, you want rid of her so you can sleep in private. "Fine. You win this time, but expect me to wake you up in the morning. It won't be pretty either."

You hear her hooves on the floor then your door opening followed by it closing. You know your alone now and can finally get some rest.

Snoring is never a problem.

The next morning you wake up early, real early. You've got two hours before you even need to get up, three hours before having to do anything. You get up quickly, grab the timetables from your ankle belt currently on your couch, then lay back down. You begin to read over each days events. Monday isn't busy, so today shouldn't be too hard.

Soarin's busy today, Firestreak too, Spitfire not so much, Fleetfoot has the day off apparently, Sugar Dust and Orange Sundae too. You keep reading the names and assignments of each Wonderbolt.

A very quiet knock at your door distracts you. You quickly toss the papers to the side and pretend to be asleep. Keeping an eye open slightly just to get a peek at who's coming into your room so early in the morning. The door creeps open and an orange main pokes through. Spitfire? Just now you remember she said something about going to wake you up early as punishment for last night. She thinks you're asleep though. A silly idea pops into your mind, you do like your pranks and Spitfire seemed fun, not to mention you've still got your I.O.U if anything goes sour.

She watches your breathing making sure your asleep for a few seconds, she starts sneaking over towards the couch where your uniform resides. You hear her mess with something before you slip out of your bed while she's distracted. It looks like she's trying to steal your uniform even though she told you it wasn't necessary to wear. You wonder what exactly she's up too, you want to stay hidden and find out, but right now you had a better plan.

You fill your lungs with air and shout. "STOP RIGHT THERE CRIMINAL SCUM!" Before you even finish you sentence you jump at her, tackling her down onto the turquoise floor. You pin her down easily with your weight and surprise. All you could do now is grin. "Got ya." Is all you say. You look her over, examining your prisoner. "So what do you think you're doing in my room this early? And why were you messing with my new stuff?"

Whether you winded her, shock of what just happened, or she didn't want to answer, she didn't or couldn't speak. You take a moment to realize the dominant position you're in and glance lower down on your new victim instantly causing your wings to spring outwards. Rather than risking your own ego you quickly jump off Spitfire and start dusting your wings, acting as if you meant to flare them. Spitfire herself is blushing and looking rather embarrassed.

"Wing cramp. Got to really flex my wings when I wake up. Heheh." You try to sound sincere.

Spitfire just lays on her back looking innocent and being silent, you're not sure if you might have harmed her. You offer a claw to help the pegasus off her back. "Sorry, I didn't hurt you did I? I keep forgetting you pegasi aren't as tough as my old military friends... Sorry." You look deep into her amber eyes.

Moments pass before Spitfire lunges forward, hungrily pressing her lips against your beak. Her quick kiss startles you and it takes more than a mere moment for you to realize what just happened.

"So THAT'S what it's like kissing a gryphon. Not bad." Spitfire says before licking her lips.

You blink a few times, unsure what just happened.

"Got you." She says suggestively with a wink.

Author's Note

I add far too many references.

Unfamiliar routines

"If I walk down here, take a left, then another right, the classroom should be the fourth one down on the left side." You pause before continuing talking to yourself. "Who am I kidding, that's not right." You're standing in the middle of an unidentifiable hallway looking down at your academy map. After rotating the maps a few times to look at it from different angles your sense of direction still sucks.

"No, wait... If I'm here then... Hmmm..." You stick your tongue out in concentration. Just when your about to give up and trade some pride for some reliable intellect you notice somepony beside you also looking at your map. She's small, yellow and purple. You're unable to recognize her. "Excuse me?" You say.

"Oh... I... Ermm... D-Do you need any help?" You try to convince yourself you're fine without help but fail. Looking down at the floor defeated, you dejectedly whisper. "I'm lost."

"I'll gladly help you... W-Where do you want to go?" Her voice is soft and quiet.

"Classroom 4B. I'm sure it's around here somewhere." You flip your map again.

"Oh... Class 4B is behind you. Second door on the left."

"Oh, right yeah. Thanks."

She smiles and whispers. "You're welcome"

You look at the door into classroom 4B. You're supposed to be here checking on Firestreak's class. You never thought of Firestreak as a stallion that could teach, or even wanted to, but apparently he's good at it. Hence his class being full of students and recruits alike. It seems like you're late, looking into the class shows Firestreak writing on a chalkboard while the rest of the ponies flipped pages in their books. Without prolonging the inevitable you walk in. A gryphon in a security outfit naturally attracts the attention of everypony.

Except Firestreak, who's still busy writing on the board. He must've heard somepony coming into his current class and speaks to you without turning, unable to distinguish you from a student. "You're late. Take a seat and get your notebook out."

"What you doing today Firestreak?" You ask him honestly, ignoring his orders to sit.

"You've should have checked the class log-" before he finishes talking he turns to look at his late student only to realize you're clearly not a student. At all. Instead a gryphon clad in an overly protective looking security uniform stood in the doorway, grinning.

"Nice outfit! Where'd you get it?"

"Spitfire gave it to me, I'm not sure why." Saying her name makes you think back to this morning, to when she surprise kissed you. Even if it was just a joke, you can't seem to treat it like one. You shake your head free of these thoughts just in time to hear Firestreak talk again.

"So what brings you to my class of nephology?"

"Class of what?" You have no idea what he just said.

"Nephology." He turns to his students. "Pillow Clouds! Please explain to our security gryphon what nephology is, you'll get an extra credit."

A young pale looking recruit with a bright yellow tail and mane stands up. "Nephology is a dedicated part of meteorology, specifically the study of clouds sir!" He sounds almost militaristic. Meteorology. The study of weather, is that what Firestreak teaches?

Firestreak nods to the recruit who promptly sits back down. "So Lazuli, what brings you to my class of cloud heads?"

"Nothing really. My duties right now are to learn the academy premises off by heart. Which means I've got to find each Wonderbolt at different times at different places."

"Don't worry, Spitfire tends to give out easy jobs until you settle in properly. Soon you'll be chasing roks and all sorts. Just you wait and see."

Some quiet muttering is heard from the back of the class. You look to see who it is, but they go silent as soon as you turn your head. "I'll stay here for ten or twenty minutes anyways. If you don't mind Firestreak."

"Sure, feel free to take notes or whack recruits that give me dumb answers to easy questions." You smile, shake your head and sit at an empty desk at the back of the classroom. Only now can see what Firestreak wrote on the chalk board; Cumulus Nimbus - Storm clouds.

You knew one thing about those clouds. Flying into them meant getting wet. Very wet. Which causes your current train of thought to go full circle and back to Spitfire. It was only a day or two ago that you both flew into a storm cloud, getting soaked in the process. "Turn, to page, three hundred, and ninety four." You tune out the sound of Firestreak's voice and instead keep thinking about Spitfire, something about her attracted your thoughts and you're determined to figure out what.

Halfway through Firestreak's class, you fell asleep.

"You okay Lazuli?"

You hear your name and wake up with an unintentional panicked grumble. "Mmghhm! What? Oh.. Y-Yeah, I'm fine! I was just thinking."

"You were mumbling stuff about Spitfire, you sure you're okay?"

You quickly think up an excuse. "Yeah, I just have a meeting with her today. Yeah.. that's right." You look about the class noticing it's currently empty. Surprised you check the clock. You'd been asleep for two and a half hours!

"Oh crap, I'm way late. Sorry Firestreak you'll have to teach me later." He wholeheartedly laughs at you.

"Hope you enjoyed your nap." Says Firestreak as you rush out of the class without risking embarrassing yourself anymore. You're not exactly sure what to do now your timetable is all messed up. Maybe you'll just skip those two hours and figure out an excuse later. Which means next on the list would be Soarin, he should be at the racetrack outside.

A relaxed search for the exit gets you thinking. Didn't Lightning Dust say she had some sort of lesson with Soarin today? Perhaps she's there now, all the more reason to find Soarin next.

Not long into your search you spot Soarin and four other pegasi flying outside. He's watching them do laps of the racetrack. You go outside and fly towards them. Before you could reach them one of the pegasi which happens to be Lightning Dust flies down to meet you halfway. Soarin watches and just shrugs, allowing the disobedience.

"Hey Lazi, what'ca doing here? I heard you were sleeping during on of Firestreaks lectures." You laugh, news travels fast.

"I was just resting my eyes is all." You doubt any real excuses would work against Lightning Dust.

"Don't lie, they're boring, i know that myself, infact i tend to sleep during them too. Just don't tell anypony." You shake your head in disapproval and tsk at her. "Don't judge me if you sinned yourself. Anyways, do me a favour and get Soarin in trouble or something, I've had enough lessons today and could use a break."

"Oh?" You think and tilt your head to the side, flapping your large wings steadily to keep yourself hovering in place.

"Just do something to keep him occupied for another thirty minutes. Please! I'll buy you a drink later if you do." Lightning Dust smiles a sly grin and you think it over. On one claw, it's your first day and you should be doing your job to the best of your ability. Yet on the other claw, it's a bit of harmless fun, and making friends can only help you settle into this new job.

The Wonderbolts themselves seem to enjoy a more fun relax approach to teaching instead of being strict so you go with Lightning Dusts suggestion. "SOARIN!" You shout and gesture a come here with your claw. Meanwhile Dust grins and nods before flying back to the other three pegasi who had gathered to watch the security gryphon.

Soarin gestures to the recruits before flying towards you. The recruits including Lightning Dust land and begin chatting amongst themselves.

"What's up Lazuli? You need me for something?" Soarin says with a slightly puzzled look on his face.

"I'll be honest since it's my first day, Dust asked me to keep you busy until the class was over. I think she's trying to be lazy-"

"Perfect!" Soarin interrupts. "I've been teaching pretty much non stop this morning, i could do with a break." He then lands and heads towards the recruits saying something. When he returns you've landed and been waiting curiously. "That sorts that out. Encase anypony asks, your questioning me about my routine ok?"

You not sure what just happened, but you're starting to think Soarin is being lazy too. "Sure.." Is all you say before Soarin suddenly pushes you.

"Come on, I gotta show you my office."

Soarins office? That sounds fun. Before you know it, you're following him throughout some corridors idly chatting. At some point the conversation turns to Spitfire.

"So you remember that day i was hiding from her? Turns out i was being stupid, nothing happened between us. That being said, I did get a kiss after scaring her this morning."

"A kiss? What'd you do?"

"What do you mean, what did I do? She was the one who kissed me, not the other way around."

"Yeah, but I've know Spitfire awhile now, probably better than any other Wonderbolt besides Wonder Wings, and getting a kiss from her means you did something. I just wanted to know what." You arrive at his 'Office' which is just a big room with a few couches, a fridge, kettle and a few other items. The only thing that make it look like an office are the bookshelves lined up against the far wall. It looks far more like a common room than an office. As if on queue Soarin answers your internal question. "It's not actually my office, I don't have one, but since I'm here during most of my time off, ponies treat it like my office."

You take note of the location, if this is Soarin's 'Office' you'll probably be back here a few times. As you wander about Soarin asks you about Spitfire again. "So what did you do to Spitfire? I'm guessing you fell ontop of her at an awkward angle or something."

"You're surprisingly close Soarin. I caught her messing with my outfit in the early hours so I surprise pounced her. I got off her immediately after realizing the awkward position we'd landed in. She didn't move so after I got off her so I thought I had hurt her, and when I went to help her up, Wham! she kissed me."

"Yep, that sounds about right. Look, Spitfire is weird, she acts very dominant most of the time, but she's a right submissive when it comes to love."

"What? No way, Spitfire? Submissive? Soarin, she's got more balls than both of us. Combined. And that's saying something."

"Believe me or not, you're the one who got kissed haha." He laughs. "I knew she liked you, but I never thought she'd make a move on you already."

You struggle with the idea of Spitfire being a sub, but It's not completely unbelievable. You start to think of ways to exploit this new knowledge.

After chatting with Soarin in his 'Office' for longer than you should've you still have a job to do and next up is Spitfire according to the timetables given to you by the very same mare. She should be in her office writing up expense reports.

As nice as Soarin is you decide it's best to leave him with his own duties and see to your own. On your way to Spitfire's office you notice two stallions trying to open a side door. You shout over to them. "Need any help?" Immediately they turn to look at you, then run. It takes a moment before your brain decides to chase after them. They acted guilty of something and you wanted to find out what.

They turn a corner and seconds later you do, you're just about to shout at them again when your interrupted by Spitfire. She is laying on the floor with her hooves and wings tied up with rope. "Officer Lazuli! Save-" You hear a faint snicker between all three of them. "Save me!" She sounded like she was having...Fun? If it wasn't for what Soarin just explained you might have taken this seriously.

"Can't catch us."

"Let her go... This is only very slightly funny." You walk towards them casually, not at all concerned. You hear them laugh as you got closer and closer, eventually one stallion picks up Spitfire and hauls her over the other stallion's back before they both start running again.

"Hurry up and save me you feathered lump!" No matter how suspicious this looks you chase after them. They take you around the academy until they barred themselves into a room. You're not sure what the rooms purpose is, you've yet to explore even half the academy complex.

You shake the door handle a few times confirming it being locked. "Come on guys, this sucks. Don't make me break some academy property already." You wait for a response but get none. With a firm charge towards the door you fall directly into the dimly lit room. Somepony opened the door just before you bashed into it.

"SURPRISE!"

The once dark room lights up with a burst of light revealing a large group of Wonderbolts and friends that had gathered together and created what looks like a birthday party. It isn't your birthday today. (If it is by chance your birthday today, happy birthday!)

Spitfire approaches you first, seemingly fine about just being captured minutes ago. "Maybe that was just a trick to get me here." you think as sarcastically as possible.

"Sorry about the chase and all but we needed to get you off guard to really surprise you. Did it work?" You are surprised. Pessimistically so. "I guess that's a yes. I arranged a little welcome to the club party. We normally only have these for members of the Wonderbolts who recently pass recruitment and get onto our team. But! You're apart of our team now so you deserve one."

You take a look around the room. Music is playing, balloons and streamers are tossed about the place, a few tables had been set up with drinks and food including some fish! There are a number of ponies you don't recognize and many you do. Derpy is here, Orange Sundae, Soarin, Fleetfoot, Lightning Dust, Firestreak, Sugar Dust and many many more.

You just sit on the floor confused. How did Soarin manage to beat you here?!

Spitfire leans in closer to whisper into your ear. "We've got some adult entertainment later when the younglings leave." She gives you a gently nudge. You climb to your feet and take a moment to absorb the situation. Spitfire had thrown you a party just for getting a job. You seem to be doing lots of smiling around Spitfire lately.

Better mingle with the guests and more importantly get some fish. You're starving.

"Cya later Lazuli."

"Yeah, nice party."

"Thanks guys, have a great night." You reply. It's now late in the day. After a few hours of dancing, drinking and talking only a hand full of pegasi remain. The lights dim and the mood changes ever so slowly. A door to a different room is unlocked and everypony heads in. You simply follow the crowd.

This room is very fancy and mature, warm red walls and a deep violet floor changed the party mood to a more sensual one. The lights are dim but illuminate important looking places such as the two poles on a wooden stage and a nearby bar. "Is this? Oh Celestia it couldn't be." You think aloud.

The music changes too and before you can get comfortable you here a distinctive voice shout out to the newly acquired audience. "Majestic mares, sexy stallions and gorgeous gryphon-" You look to the stage and squint your eyes at Spitfire who gives you wink and continues with her announcement. "-prepare to be amazed and aroused by our dancers tonight. Give our performers a warm welcome, Fleetfoot AND Lightning Dust!"

You feel a hoof grab you from behind that pulls you down onto a nearby chair. "I can't believe Spitfire got both Fleetfoot and Lightning Dust to preform for you. Lucky bastard." You're now sitting beside Soarin, he hands you a drink. Taking a sniff you identify it as whiskey with a hint of something else.

Spitfire hops off the stage and sits on a chair beside yourself. You now have Soarin on one side and Spitfire the other. "You better enjoy this, wasn't exactly easy to set up." She states plainly.

Music changes yet again and everypony goes quiet. You take off your helmet and ankle belt placing them onto the table beside your drink. You'll collect them before leaving. Fleetfoot and Lightning Dust dressed in skimpy bikinis reveal themselves and walk on stage with some strut. You can't help but think to yourself. "Why do ponies look sexier WITH clothing on?"

You take a glance around the room to count the current audience. You, Spitfire and Soarin are at one table. Another two tables stood in each side of the room, one of which is empty the other has Firestreak, Sugar Dust and another mare. That makes six guests tonight.

Both mares saunter to the front of the stage showing off every inch of their lithe bodies. Sliding their hooves across their thighs and down to their large rounded haunches. It's definitely hotter in here, whether it's your padded vest or the dancers themselves causing the heat, or both, it's getting hot in here.

It's not long before Lightning Dust's competitive nature sets in and she tries to out do Fleetfoot. She grabs her pole and manages to spin herself upside down, her mane and tail dangling heavy with the force of gravity. It's amazing how agile she is, turning her body around the pole as if she's liquid. If she wasn't wearing clothing you'd be getting an even better view of her cyan body.

She climbs to the top of her pole then slides down graciously, tuning the right side up once more before sitting on the stage with her legs spread and her arms gripping the pole. She's been staring at you the entire performance so far. Poor Soarin. You can't help be amazed and clearly aren't the only one enjoying themselves tonight. The other pegasi are shouting and waving their hooves in the air desperate for their own attention.

Not long into the show Lightning Dust thankfully decides to remove your vest using only her teeth, watching you intently while performing. You wriggle your body in an effort to help the mare unclothe you, you're not exactly sure why you took your helmet off but kept the vest on.

Spitfire whispers something into Lightning Dust's ear and you manage to catch the word "dance." You're not sure what Fleetfoot is doing anymore, since a certain cyan mare decided to sit on your lap. She's lightly swaying her body forward and backwards, her hooves wrapped around your neck and her wings spread out.

You can feel her body radiate with warmth that serves only to rouse your libido. You grab the drink Soarin gave you and quickly drink the entire thing in hopes it'll keep you calm. You already feel happier.

Lightning turns herself around, placing her butt against your crotch and brushing her tail against your cheek teasingly. You can't help but hold your breath in anticipation. Her body deliberately presses against yours, she keeps swaying side to side increasing the friction between you both.

She begins to flap her wings gently causing her bounce softly while still on your lap swaying. Your heart is beating faster and your blood is pumping harder, you can't stop thinking how lucky you are but at the same time trying to think of anything other than the sexy mare sitting atop your lap.

After some agonizing moments of pure concentration on your behalf, she finally stops and turns around to face you once again before embracing you with her warm feather wings and hooves. She kisses your beak lightly, her soft moist lips manage to leave a lasting impression on your mood.

She then takes your helmet off the table and puts it on, making her look a bit more dominating. If Spitfire likes mares, this'll be good. She gets off your lap and you instantly cool down. She hops right back onto the stage and when she does you give her a smile. All these new experiences are getting to you.

The performance carries on, ending when both Spitfire and Soarin got there own lap dances, the other side seemed to be having fun too, as Sugar Dust seems to have joined Fleetfoot in the teasing of Firestreak.

After the amazing performance you all grabbed a few drinks and talked. Mostly about how amazing Lightning Dust's ass is thanks to Soarin and yourself, everypony else just joined in creating yet another great day with the Wonderbolts.

You're heading back to your room before you remember that at the party you'd left your helmet, vest and belt. You remember Lightning Dust wearing everything, but afterwards Spitfire ended up taking them for safety reasons. Using that as an excuse is enough mental convincing to go see her, you decide to go find her bedroom. You'll have to thank her for arranging that crazy party after all.

After walking about in the strangely quite halls you come across her bedroom. You've not been in her room before, just her office so you wonder whether it's similar. Warm colours and a neat professional look? You knock three times. "Spitfire, you in there?"

You hear some shuffling and some whispering. You knock again. "It's me Lazuli, I just wanted to say thanks and get my stuff back." Nothing else is heard. "Are you okay? You're not in the shower are you?"

You now hear more whispers and some muffles followed by a quiet thump. "I'm coming in okay? you better not be doing anything rude, or if you are give me some warning at least." The door isn't locked thankfully since your enchanted key is in your belt which you don't have right now. As soon as you begin turning the door handle you hear even more whispers then what sounded like a window opening before a much louder crash.

Inside is cold and dark, you have to squint your eagle eyes to make out any silhouettes. You can see the window in the back of her room has been opened and a light breeze is blowing through.

*SMACK*

Something smashes against the back of your head forcing you stumbling forward meanwhile you shouted a high pitched: "OWW!"

You try to gather yourself, but damn that hurt. By now your eyes have adapted to the bleak lighting enough to spot a masked pony looming over you. He must be standing on something to be higher than you. You rub the back of your head. "Oww.. That hurt." You'd had a lamp broken against your skull and pieces shattered to the floor. You can't help feel bad for the lamp, poor thing never stood a chance.

You take another look at the masked invader, under his mask is an expression of panic and you could feel it. A voice speaks from behind, indicating another nearby presence. "How the hay did that NOT knock you out?"

With that said you get a sunken feeling in your stomach and finally notice the state the room's in. Broken glass scattered the floor, books with pages torn out lay bent across a table that had been tipped over. Walls are scratched, lights broken and the look of the bed would have you think somepony released a manticore in here.

Something is going on here, something definitely not good. "Aright, what's going on here?" You demand. "This better not be some stupid Wonderbolt trick because if it is, it's really bad. Who'd wreck someponies room then hit someone else with a lamp as a joke?"

"No joke here." The only talking pony seem to be wielding a weapon of sorts, thankfully you've got quick reflexes and mange to grab his hoof before he could get near to hitting you.

"I won't ask again. What is going on here?" You grip his hoof hard. Hard enough to force him to drop whatever he was holding. You look into his eyes through the mask, staring into his soul, trying to figure out his intentions.

"Common man, help!" He begins to struggle the best he can in your tightening grip.

"One more chance, What. Is. Going. On?" You angrily yet slowly inquire.

*THUMP*

Again something slams into the back of your head, this time much harder forcing you flat onto the floor. It feels like your skull got hit by a tonne of bricks. With a shake of your head you let your adrenaline kick in. Now you're pissed off.

Without risking another blow to the head you leap straight into attacker number one, pushing him onto his back. With the high ground your own, you clench your claws into a fist and lay into his face repeatedly. You unleash punch after punch directed towards his mask until the mask succumbs to your blows and shatters, leaving the intruder visible.

With a few strong punches you feel like you've won but before you remember there being two intruders the other grabs you from behind attempting to pull you off his accomplice. Either he is far weaker than he looks or you're heavier than you look. You aren't moving.

With a powerful swing of your adrenaline fueled arm, you shake him off and onto the floor beside. You stand up, getting off your current victim, leaving him alone to go towards the invader that had just attempted to grab you.

He's laying on his back, you must have thrown him harder than you thought, such as the way with the rush of adrenaline. You clench the slightly bloodied claw on your left and demand. "Where. Is. Spitfire?"

"I'm not telling you anything." You unclentch your fist then turning around to think. Spitfire is gone, her room has been trashed and there are... were two stallions attacking you. Anger overwhelms you, and with a loud squawk and a spin you give the nearby attacker a strong blow to the head knocking him out cold.

Dusting off your claws you go back to your first victim, he looks much more eager to talk. "Please! I'll explain, just don't hit me!" You stare at him angrily, squinting your eyes. "I..I...We.. We were told to take Spitfire and smash her room up, that's it. I wasn't told anything else! I promise."

"Take Spitfire, why and where?"

"Y-you don't know?" He sqeaks.

You grab him and pull him closer to your face. "Tell me."

"S-she has debts... T-The Wonderbolts have debts.. I was just doing as I was told.. I.. I didn't know she had a guard.. I was just doing as I was told!" His eyes tear up and his body starts shaking.

You let him go. You believe him, but you can't just let him go so instead you decide to lock them both up for later questioning. Where can you lock them up though? There isn't exactly a jail on the academy premises. A broom closet will have to do for now, until the proper authorities arrive. You grab and pull the unconscious masked attacker and toss him into a nearby closet. You don't need to do the same with the other attacker as he willingly goes in on his own accord. You lock them in.

Afterwards you can only think of going to the front desk, there's always some secretary on duty. Maybe you can explain what's happened and get help. You don't remember where the front desk is from where you're currently standing, but you follow your instincts till you finally arrive.

At the desk is indeed a pony, who is looking at you horrified for some reason. You speak calm and collectively. "Send a letter to the Cloudsdale guards, we need some miscreants locked up." That's all you wanted to say, and now you simply walk away. You're not sure what drives you but you begin heading back to your room, maybe you can do something more useful in the morning.

Your head feels heavy and it takes you longer than it should've to reach you room. When finally do get into your room you yawn, then lay on your bed. It takes awhile to fall asleep due to the slight headache you have.

Awoken with a now pounding headache you lean forward and are immediately greeted by a warm hoof, pushing you back down. You can only see blurred shapes and because of that unable to identify your companion. "Take it easy big boy... You've had a nasty hit on the head."

The voice is friendly and familiar, as you come too the shape becomes a pony, then a cyan colour fills it's coat. On top of wondering what the hay happened last night, you want to know why she's here with you. "Lighnin Dust? I..Is that oou?" The feeling of owning your very own personal hangover causes your words to slur slightly.

"Dear Celestia what happened to you?"

She places a hoof onto your chest comforting you. "Ughh... Spishfiur!" You jump forward with enthusiasm desperate for information.

"Clam down, She's fine. Everything is fine." The words she speaks sound trustworthy. Trustworthy enough to lean back and rest again. You rub your face with a claw. "You just chill here until you feel better, I'll explain what I know later." Where is "here"? Even though your head hurts, you give it a quick shake and feel better for it. You've always recovered from wounds and injuries pretty quickly. Probably just a light concussion or hangover. You did drink quite a bit at the party last night.

The room you occupy isn't your own, although it's similar. You figure out who's it is based on your current company. "H...Hoow did I get here?" Your speech slowly returning.

"Oh! That's my doing. After our... party last night I forgot I stole your helmet from Spitfire... I was going to return it and when I got to your room you were laying very strangely against your bed." Tilting your head sideways gets her to continue with the story.

"I didn't know if you were sleeping or dead so I checked you. I knew something was up, so I dragged you back here, patched you up and contacted the secretary." Patting your head you can feel some bandages. They cover the top half of your feather head but leave room for your ears. Expertly done you admit mentally.

You feel the sudden need to thank her. "Ehh... Thanks Lightning. I guess you saved my ass."

"No problem Lazi, couldn't just leave you. Besides, I think we get along quite well. Tough mare and cute gryphon." Sounds like a bad detective squad.

Wait. Cute?! You're not cute. You're brave, gallant and audacious it seems. It takes awhile to notice that it's actually Lightning Dust saying this and not Spitfire. Maybe she's got a thing for you. She is friendly, and soft, not to mention how good she looks- "Damn it." You accidentally say out loud as you realize you might like her too.

"Well sorry Mr macho but if you don't want to be cute, stop acting cute."

You roll your eyes and sit up again, this time much easier. "So what exactly did happen last night?" You quiz.

"Well, it's kinda complicated but I'll simplify it for you. Basically the Wonderbolts owe some money to a crazy syndicate. Every so often they demand some cash and if for some reason they can't pay- stuff get's crazy." After a slight think you nod acknowledging her and hint to continue. "Since Spitfire is like the best flier not to mention the captain of the Wonderbolts they choose to attack her. She's a got a broken wing this time."

You get a sunken feeling in your chest and can't help but feel slightly responsible, you could have protected her if you weren't so busy being a tipsy overly excited gryphon. "She's fine though, she just can't fly for awhile. On the other hoof Wonder Wings is furious, she's here at the academy right now looking for you."

Now you feel even worse and it clearly shows. "No no, she's not angry at you but the ponies that did all this. I don't know any details, she just wants to talk with you."

You can't help but feel worried and concerned, both for yourself and Spitfire. "Where IS Spitfire?" You had to ask.

"Like I said, she's fine. She's just got her wing bandaged and now she's back to work. Just like that." That's a relief. As long as she's not hurt badly you can feel better about failing in your duty to protect her. From now on you'll be extra vigilant. Consider that lesson learned.

"Listen Lazuli, it's Tuesday and even though all this happened last night the academy is still open today. Which means I've got class again." You hear her sigh deeply. "As much as I'd love to stay here I've got to go. You can stay here and get some rest, what's mine is yours, I'll tell Wonder Wings where you are so she'll probably stop by. Catch you later." You choose to be silent and nod instead. After receiving a gentle pat on the head she disappears to whatever class she has. You fall back heavily onto her bed.

From what you could gather, the Wonderbolts owe money to some ponies, and if they don't pay, Spitfire takes a beating. No wonder you got hired. You feel angry at being left in the dark about this knowledge, knowing this before might have helped the situation. If you knew some Mafia type ponies were trying to ambush Spitfire you would've stuck closer to her personally and kept her safe in your sights at all times.

Instead you were kept in the dark, unknown of what was actually going on. How are you supposed to protect the Wonderbolts when nopony tells you anything. And now you've got some "Al Capony" to deal with.

Great.

Gryphon problems

As you lay on your bed with your eyes closed enjoying a serene moment you hear the rush of hoofsteps growing louder and louder as they draw nearer to your room. You decide to sit up knowing full well you're about to get involved somehow. It's what always seems to happen anyways.

"I'M FINE. GO AWAY." The voice currently outside your door sounded angry with a tone of pleading to it, either way you know exactly who it belonged too.

"Is that you Spitfire?" You calmly ask, raising your claws to your head in mock tiredness. "You better have a good reason for being here this tim-" Your words are cut short as an angry Spitfire makes her way into your room. Backwards. While shouting at some medically clad ponies standing at the other side of your door.

After seeing these professional looking ponies you can't help but worry. You immediately get up and go over to them. Very few ponies dared to enter your room for some reason. "What's going on? Can I help you?" You ask politely, though by the looks on the ponies faces you could guess otherwise. "Is Spitfire in trouble or is she making trouble?"

"HEY! I'M RIGHT HERE." Shouts the golden pegasus from behind. A quick glance in her direction show that she's taken up residence on your bed looking rather dejected.

You turn back to the medical staff and cock your head, re-asking the question without opening your beak. "Ehmm... We're truly sorry Sir Lazuli, we... we didn't know this was your room, we were just trying to keep track of Spitfire." You can smell their fear already and sigh loudly to yourself. You've almost had it with all these scardy ponies.

"Just tell me what's wrong." You say bluntly.

"It's Spitfire's wing Sir."

Oh... This again.

"She hasn't been for a check up in over a week. Her wing was badly damaged and she keeps making things worse by trying to fly. We tried banning her from flying but that hasn't stopped her, we tried putting her wing in a cast, she took it off, we even wanted to keep her at the infirmary but that simply didn't end all too well."

Ah yes.. you remember all those failed attempts at medicine. You remember her trying to fly the week after she returned with her broken wing, only to constantly crash. You remember her complaining about her cast being too itchy and her chewing it off. Good times. "Okay okay, you guys go back to the infirmary, I'll deal with Spitfire."

They both smile towards you cautiously. "Yes Sir." "Thank you Sir."

With that said they both leave. You turn around only for your gaze to meet hers. Her look says it all. "Spitfire.... you know you can't be doing all this running and hiding from the doctors."

"I can, and I will." She states bluntly, huffing in place.

"No, you won't, even if I have to drag you down to them myself."

"WHAT? You're bluffing." You shake you head in response. "You're supposed to be my friend!"

"Exactly!"

After saying that you see panic written all over her face. "No.. you can't.. no really, you can't. Please!"

That surprises you. Spitfire was too bold and stubborn to say something like that. "It's only a simple examination Spitfire, I highly doubt they'll have you longer than ten minutes." She just looks at you pleadingly. "Come on Spitfire, it's for your own good. It's not like it'll be painful or anything. Just think of it like a massage or something."

She responds with complete silence. You have to admit, this isn't like the Spitfire you know all too well, you would've expected her to make a run for it by now. Thinking about that possibility reminds you to stand in the doorway. "I'm sorry but unless you've got a good excuse not to go for a simple wing examination, I'll drag you there by the tail."

You can almost see her thoughts she's thinking so hard, then out of the blue she speaks up. "Okay."

"Okay? Okay you're going, or okay you've got an excuse?"

"Okay I'll tell you why I can't go. But you have to promise me not to tell anypony else."

Something strange was going on with Spitfire and you wanted to know what, and if you could help. "I can't promise that, but I need to know what's going on with you."

"No, you don't understand Lazuli. If you tell anypony, Spitfire will fire me, then I wouldn't have a job, and no money means I'll loose my home and.. and..." She looks like she's about to cry before you stop her with a claw to her lips.

"Quick question. How will Spitfire fire you? You ARE Spitfire... right?"

The pony infront of you, who looks, smells, and sounds just like Spitfire replies with a shake of it's head. You're about to argue that she looks very much like Spitfire but before you could get a word out your beak, a green fire consumes Spitfire and replaces her with a chitinous changeling.

This has to be the first time you've seen a changeling up close. While your birdy brain struggles to come to terms with what just happens your jaw drops as you gasp. "WOAH"

"Waa? Y..You're not going to threaten or attack me?" The changeling lowers its stance practically cowering below you.

You snap out of your trance and quickly get serious. "Depends. Are you here to harm somepony, directly or indirectly?" You talk slowly and calmly, but in the back of your mind you've never been so excited to meet a changeling. Those infamous creatures that can change into anything they like. Even the drones can both use magic and fly, and their queen? She was heard to have powers on par with Celestia herself. You still remember that day you were called out to help combating the Canterlot invasion, however by the time you had arrived, there was not a changeling to be found.

"No... no.. I'm... Wow. This is... something." The changeling says seemingly distracted. "You're like... the first pony- I mean gryphon to not outright insult me or attempt to harm me." You can see a smile form on it's face. It stands back up properly, thought it doesn't seem like it due to his or her frame being somewhat smaller than a ponies let alone a gryphons.

Getting back to the point, you weren't letting this changeling go until you had answers, but you don't need to be rude or even violent for them. Besides, this changeling seems to want to co-operate. Violence was always good to avoid if possible. The unidentified changeling talks in a much more calm, less frightened tone, your less aggressive approach to information gathering clearly getting to him or her. "Okay, sorry. I was getting a bit off topic. No, I'm not here to harm anypony. Anything else you want to ask me?"

The changeling clearly wants you to take the lead in the interrogation, you've got many questions, some casual and some professional but you better start with the most important. "So, if you're not Spitfire, where is she? Is she safe?"

"Yeah, she's fine. She's at her condo at the edge of Cloudsdal-"

"I know where her condo is." You interrupt.

"Right, right. Well, I guess you want to know why I'm pretending to be Spitfire then?" You nod. "Well.. she's my boss. After the failed invasion of Canterlot some time ago, many of us changelings have been trying to fit into your society peacefully. Myself included. A long story short, Spitfire found me and asked if I wanted to work for her, naturally I said yes. My job is simple, I just BE Spitfire when she doesn't want to. Boring meetings, watching recruits fly laps, writing reports, she taught me how to do it all. I can't perform infront of a large audience though, I'm not a good flier like Spitfire, besides I get too nervous."

"That's quite the story. So what you're saying is Spitfire has been using you to get extra time off?"

"Yes. Basically." You're not sure to be impressed or disappointed.

"So what's your name changeling?" Your question surprises it.

"You... You want to know my name?"

"Sure. Why not?"

"Are you always this nice to strange creatures taking the place of your crush?"

"I try to be nice to everypony if I can.... HEY! I like her, but I don't like like her." The sudden statement of Spitfire being your crush seems to have collapsed your calm collective questioning.

"You can't fool me Lazuli, I'm a changeling. Love is a delicious meal for us." You sigh in response. "Don't worry, Spitfire is a lovely mare to have a crush on. I'll keep it secret between us. But listen, I wouldn't go talking to her right now, she needs to be alone. That's why I'm taking her place right now."

"I don't have a crush on Spitfire!" You try to argue but as you do, images of her soft golden butt and slender body fill your mind. As if the changeling knows exactly what you're thinking it just smiles and nods. Maybe you do.

"Wait, why does she need to be alone?" Your inquisitive nature takes a hold of your questioning.

"Mare problems. It's a private thing so, just don't go for awhile, she's fine though. I promise." You roll your eyes and agree. It's not like you need to see her anytime soon. She can have her private holiday.

It's not long before you get into an amazing conversation with the changeling about its life and everything interesting that seems to happen in Spitfire's place. Eventually you get the female drones name: Lucy. You can't help but think that's a very ordinary name for a changeling.

"If you can change into anypony, does that mean you can turn into, dunno, me?" Lucy smiles brightly, walks around you, slowly doing what looks like getting measurements, then in a burst of green flame replaces her little changeling body with a far larger gryphon one. One that looks like an exact copy of you.

"It's like looking in a mirror. You look brilliant!"

"Thanks, you're not too bad yourself." A brief moment of laughing is shared between you both.

"HEY LAZI? YOU IN HERE?" A new voice comes bursting into your room without so much as a warning. "Who you taking to in there- Oh."

Before Lucy can take another form Lightning Dust is in your room. Her head keeps moving from left to right: from one azure gryphon to the other. You stand dumbfounded not sure what to say or do. But before you could explain anything Lightning Dust happens to crack a simple remark. "It's just like a dream I had once."

You have to hold in your laughter. Lucy doesn't do so well and ends up giggling.

"I'm not dreaming am I? This isn't some crazy fetish thing where you both take me and ravage at the same time. Is it?"

Heh. Lightning Dust has quite the imagination. "No Dust, this... this is real. Why don't you take a seat? Take a seat. Right over there."

This is going to take awhile to explain.

"Oh, well that's interesting. I wish I had a personal changeling. You don't feel like working for me do you Lucy?" Lightning Dust inquires with no real intent. She's taken things rather well considering. She's truly one chill pony.

"Anyways, Lazuli, Lightning Dust, I need to be going. Spitfire has one heck of a schedule." As the changeling is about to leave she changes back into Spitfire and turns to you. "Thanks for saving me from those doctors, if they got a hold of me, I'm sure they would've found out."

You nod. "I scratch your back, you scratch mine." Lucy looks at you confused. "It's a figure of speech. Anyways, if you ever need more help, you know where my room is." You both wave bye to changeling gone Spitfire before getting some alone time with Lightning Dust.

"So.... Dust. Why'd you want to see me?"

"I.. well, just wanted to let you know I won't be continuing my studies as a Wonderbolt recruit. I've not been accepted to advance my studies and I've got no reason to be doing the same thing over and over again until somepony changes her mind, which clearly isn't happening anytime soon. I guess Spitfire hasn't truly forgiven me for when I acted like a reckless jerk."

"Woah woah woah, slow down. You mean you're leaving the academy?"

"Yeah, got no reason to stay. I only came here to become a Wonderbolt, if that's impossible then, well- I'm going to pack up tonight and leave tomorrow. I just... I was fooled into thinking I had a second chance here."

"Don't say that Dust, I've heard Spitfire say your one of the best fliers she's seen." Though that could have been Lucy now that you think about it, but you better not say that. "I'm pretty sure you're better than most if not all the current recruits." You have seen her during flight practice many times while on duty, she's always ahead of everypony, always racing ahead with such ease and grace. Something as a gryphon you could never hope to do.

Maybe you'll pay Spitfire a visit after all. Lucy may have said not to, but you're sure she wouldn't mind taking a few minutes off her holiday to talk about Lightning Dusts future as a Wonderbolt. It is important after all. "Don't go just yet Dust, I'll have a word with Spitfire and find out why you've not been accepted for the next year program. Maybe it was just a clerical error or something, even I know how paperwork melts the brain."

"That'd be nice, but I'm pretty sure she made up her mind back when I was an ass. Do what you want, I'm still packing. Maybe I'll see you around?"

"You better keep in touch. It won't be nearly as much fun here without you. Are you really sure you don't want to stay just a little while longer?"

Dust just smiles and shakes her head aimlessly. Despite her best efforts to remain upbeat about her situation, deep down you know how heart broken she really is. You can only wonder what Spitfire's reason is, she must know Lightning Dust is an amazing flier, perfect to be a Wonderbolt. It's not easy to hide such raw talent.

So with that decided, you take the chance and leave your room before any more ponies decide to interrupt your day. Outside the fresh air is nice and cool and you can't help but take deep breaths and enjoy a few peaceful moments alone. You've never really had the chance to sit down for a few hours and relax since the incident with Spitfire and those syndicate ponies.

The flight to Spitfire's condo was short, Cloudsdale isn't exactly a big city despite it's large sprawling architecture. As you land outside her front door you take a moment to appreciate the design of her condo. It's unlike anything you'e seen before. A large silvery building adorned with columns of rare clouds. It's a great deal bigger than anypony would ever need. Either way you walk up to the door and knock- Hard to be sure she can hear you.

No answer.

You knock again, slightly harder.

Still no answer. This time you decide to open the door and shout her name inside. "SPITFIRE? YOU THERE?" A gentle thump can be heard from up stairs.

You look around before deciding to go in. This Lightning Dust business is kinda important and you want to get it sorted quickly before she can leave. You really don't want to Lightning Dust to leave. Not after becoming such good friends with her.

You take a look around the first room in Spitfire's condo. It's large and spacious with a few paintings on the walls and a lovely ornate looking staircase up to the next floor. You head up calling her name and just as you reach the top you hear a door open an a voice call out. "Lucy? Is that you?" It's Spitfire's voice and you head over towards it.

"Nope, it's me. Lazuli. Where are you?" You ask looking around at the top of the stairs. There are corridors, one to your left, and one to your right, both with more doors to rooms than should ever be allowed in a building. It takes a little while for you to notice only one door half open and you head on over.

"Lazuli? Wait. Stay where you are. Don't come in." her voice sounded a little distressed, but you obey her.

"Bad time? I have something important to talk about though." You're standing outside the half open door waiting for her response.

"Kinda. Just don't come in. Talk to me from there." You're not sure why but things feel rather... Strange.

"Are you okay in there?"

"I'm fine! Just, let me know what you want quickly, then go. I've got stuff I need to do. Important private stuff..." You ignore your gut feeling and decide to just get on with it.

"Right, well. You know how Lightning Dust isn't advancing her studies this year? Well, I thought I might be able to convince you otherwise. I think she'd make a really good team member with her set of skills. I know she can be a little irresponsible but she's been improving so much. Even I have been noticing her flying abilities. So if there's anything I-"

"That's not it. I KNOW her skills are amazing. I've not seen a flier like her for.. well.. ever. She's great to teach and fun to race with. However. The problem isn't her skills, but her social abilities. According to her classmates she's been bullying them, I had thought she had stopped that attitude but apparently I was wrong."

That doesn't sound right. Lightning Dust is anything but a bully.

"I've personally learnt that being a Wonderbolt is only half about flying skills. The other is being social and presentable to fans and the like. Both parts make up the Wonderbolts as they are today. So that's why. Do you understand?"

"I do- However, Were the classmates who reported this by any chance Flash Lance, Kiwi Breeze and I've forgotten the other mare, but she has a blue coat and turquoise mane?"

"Sea Spirit? Yes. How do you know that, bullying reports are kept private and I've not told anypony."

"Yeah, well. Turns out those three ponies aren't victims but culprits of bullying." You've personally seen them harassing other ponies before and have had to stop them a few times, thankfully they never do anything serious so you've not needed to report them. They've messed with Lightning Dust a few times too, but this is just cruel. Lying about her so she can't advance to become a Wonderbolt? You HAVE to step in.

"Trust me Spitfire. You know I wouldn't lie about this. It's the other way around. Those three are always messing around with other students and even Lightning Dust herself. I've had to step in a few times to stop their pranks from going too far. I've never seen Lightning Dust instigate a fight." She has however defender herself a few times, but you better not say that.

"Huh. This changes things. Well I do trust you so let her know and tell her I apologize. I've been a bit... pre-occupied lately so I wasn't able to investigate. I just trusted my recruits to act properly and not to lie, I had seen Lightning act up once before so I just believed them. This is my fault, I'll have to make it up to her."

You agree, not that it was Spitfires fault, but that she could make it up to her. That would certainly cheer her up."That's that then. I'll see you later. You erm.. take care."

"Wait." Just as you started to leave she calls you name and you turn to face her room again. "Lazuli? Erm.. Would you.. mind.. If you."

There a brief pause and your slightly confused. "Lazuli, would you mind helping me with.. erm. Nevermind."

"Huh? Spitfire, if you want help, just ask. If I can't help you, then what kind of friend would I be?"

"No.. no. It's fine. Just go before I change my mind."

You're not sure what she as going to say, but either way you want to get back to Lightning Dust to tell her the good news. "Last chance Spitfire, tell me what you need or I'll be heading off."

You can hear some faint mumbling but can't make out what she was saying so you do as you said you would and leave. She'll be back in the academy soon enough, then you can ask her why she was acting so weird.

When you finally return to the academy it's pretty dark outside, your guard duty is starting soon. After the incident with the masked ponies, your schedule was rearranged from day-time to night-time. Now you're nocturnal. It isn't bad, quite a few of your new friends are working late not to mention there are more bat ponies around at night. They're always fun to watch and talk to.

Almost as soon as you enter the academy Spitfire greets you. It looks like Spitfire but you know better now. You give her a nod to be sure it's Lucy. She nods back and begins talking. "Lazuli. Where have you been?"

"Not been visiting Spitfire in her condo, that's for sure."

"I told you not to go. Anyways, before we talk, get indoors and meet me in my office in ten minutes." She heads off with nothing else said.

"Cya there." First you need to find Lightning Dust, it's quite late so she could be sleeping. Hopefully not, you'd feel bad if you had to wake her.

When you arrive at her room a few minutes later you give it a quick knock and make your way in, excited to tell her the good news. You catch her eating some cereal from a bowl on her table. She looks up at you slightly puzzled. The grin on your face worries her enough to stop eating and stare.

"Good-news everpony! Seems I was right in saying there was an error with you not getting into the next year of studies. I had a little chat with Spitfire and she said it would be okay for you to continue!"

Everything is said so quickly, Lightning Dust just looks at you, a mouth still full of cereal. She blinks a few times before jumping up, swallowing her food and leaping for a tight hug. You give in to her cuddle and hold her tight. Obviously feeling grateful she hugs hard. Harder than what you'd think be possible for a lithe mare like her. She squeezes and squeezes until eventually you let out a loud squark.

"Oh.. hehe. Sorry Lazi. I got carried away. Are you okay?" You take a few deep breaths of fresh air and nod. Lightning Dust's face is starting to beam brightly and you hug her once more, gently this time.

"It's fine, glad you're happy with the news." You state plainly, still hugging her.

"You really have no idea how much this means to me Lazi. I.. I've always though I ruined my only chance at being a Wonderbolt. No matter how hard I tired, I always though in the back of mind my it wouldn't matter. B..But you've prove me wrong. Heh. Thanks."

"Hey, I didn't do anything other than tell Spitfire the truth. Spitfire thinks you're a great flier, as do I. You deserve to be a Wonderbolt. Anyways, please tell me your staying now!"

She nods her head quickly a few times. "I guess I can stay. I mean, if you're around then everything will be fine right?"

You exhale slightly harder than normal sounding like a little laugh. "Yeah, I'll try to keep things in order around, which reminds me I'm supposed to go meet Spitfire.. or technically Lucy." A quick glance at a wall clock lets you know you're running a tiny bit late. "I have to go now, but I'm happy that I got to tell you the good news."

"Okay, I'll let you go now Lazi, but I'm going to remember this, I really owe you. I'm going to have to think of a great way to repay you.

"Nah it's fine. As long as I get to keep my friend here, that'll be enough. Speaking of repaying, Spitfire said she owes you for making the mistake in the first place. She'll probably arrange something fun." Saying that makes you want to join in. Spending time with not one, but two of your best friends would be awesome.

You let Lightning Dust know you have to be off, and that you'll be on duty again soon, and with that said, you head off once more.

Inside Spitfires office is Lucy disguised as Spitfire, sitting at the desk checking over some really old looking paperwork. When you enter she looks up at you and gets to talking straight away.

"Okay, well first things first, how did things go with Spitfire. You said you went to her condo which means you.. well.. what happened?"

"Nothing really. Went there, talked. Left. That was about it." You're not sure if you should mention ALL the details, but that was the jist of what happened.

"Why did you go even after I told you not to?"

"I had to talk to her about Lightning Dust. She wasn't allowed to advance her studies and was considering leaving. I had to find out why she was being rejected and... well... long story short, it was a simple misunderstanding. It's fixed now."

"Okay, well. So I guess you and Spitfire aren't dating or anything then?"

"Heavens no!" Not that you wouldn't like that, but she's always so busy. Besides, she's way outta your league, captain of the Wonderbolts and amazingly good looking. Doesn't stop you from imagining though. "Not that I don't like her. I'm just.. not very good at romance. I'm a little... Dense."

"That's fine Lazuli, If you need help with romance, just ask me! We're not called love bugs for show. Anyways, I was asking because I just needed to know for my acting. You know? Speaking of which, I'm not fired am I?" The changeling Spitfire asks, somewhat worried.

"Nah, she didn't say anything about you. Well, except asking if I was you when I first went in. So I presume you're fine. She shouldn't that you've showed yourself to me or Dust. Which makes me think, can we have like, a secret handshake or message so I know when it's you and not her I'm talking to?"

"Sure, what would you like?"

"Not sure, maybe something subtle, like a head pat or wink."

"I like the sound of a head pat! I'll pat your head if it's me! then i get feel your fluffy feathers!"

You laugh and agree. Before you could speak once more the changeling speaks up yet again. "Oh, the real reason I was looking for you, there was sightings of another gryphon around the academy premises. A few of the recruits noted her and I thought I could get you to investigate."

Another gryphon? Hmmm. It's been awhile since you last seen one, so what is one doing around here? "How did they know it wasn't me? I'm a gryphon and I wander the premises."

"It was much earlier, it wasn't exactly dark. Besides, you're kinda easy to recognize in your security outfit." That's true. You do stand out amongst everypony else here.

"So you want me to keep an eye out for this mystery gryphon tonight?"

"Yeah, if you can. They've not said or done anything dangerous yet, but I'd feel much happier with you keeping your eagle eyes on things. Just to be safe. You're supposed to be starting your shift soon right?"

"Yeah. I should probably head back to my room and get my gear. If you don't mind."

"Not at all. Take care." She then pats your head, reminding it's not actually Spitfire you're talking to. Having two Spitfires around will be hard to get used to, but it's not at all bad.

You pass Lightning Dusts room and can't help but smile knowing she'll be staying at the academy. It feels good that you managed to help her since she's helped you quite a bit since joined Wonderbolt guard duty. Mostly making other ponies feel at ease with your presence, ponies being prejudiced towards gryphons after all.

As you enter your room, you immediately know something off. Something's not quite right. Adjusting your eyes to the dark you spot somepony on your bed wearing your helmet. It's not somepony you recognize.

Hold on. That scent, the body size. That ain't no pony. It's another gryphon. A gryphoness. Definitely a gryphoness from where you're standing. She's violet coloured with some splashes of pink amongst her feathered wings. One of which is wrapped around her chest almost like a blanket.

You creep up towards her, curious to what they're doing in your bed, let alone your room. Before you could get too close though, she sits up, still sitting lewdly. "Like what you see?" She asks in a very effeminate voice, almost seductively.

"What are you doing in my room? and WHO are you?" You almost shout, but managed to control yourself at the last moment.

"Excuse you. Is that anyways to speak to your guest? Hmpth." She snorts at you. "But if you have to know, I'm Freya, and I've been looking for you." Her suspiciousness levels are at maximum.

"Looking for me? Why?"

"I heard there was a strong handsome gryphon male around here so I thought maybe I could snag him for myself." She snickers at her own *joke*. "Nah, what I really want was to offer you something. Something really good." She stands up fully now, still on your bed however, thought her wagging tail easily distracts you.

"Right..." You sound skeptical because you are. Her attitude doesn't feel sincere in the slightest.

"Well... you know how you're working with the Wonderbolts? Well, I've got an even better job for you. How about working for me?"

You just stand. Staring.

"Working for me! I know I'm too kind, better pay, more fun, and many more, luxuries for someone like yourself. It sounds almost unbelievable right?"

You stare. Some of those offers sound tempting, but you're happy right now, happy enough to not want to abandon your friends and duty. So you decline politely. "I'll pass thank you."

"What? Hey! Wait a minute. That's not what was agreed. You're supposed to say yes, then we leave this stink hole and go back to mine where we start anew patrol for you. You must be bored hanging around here all the time! Besides you get to hang out with me. ME! Of all gryphons!!"

She seems a little crazy. But you don't want to be aggressive if you can avoid it. "No thanks." you say once more. "I'm fine with things the way the are."

Did she really think that you would agree? You've never seen or heard about this gryphoness before. Should you have?

"I can double your pay and you can make new, better friends. How does THAT sound?" The extra cash would be nice, but it's not like you aren't being paid plenty already.

"Still no. Now unless you're here for another reason, please leave. I have my duties to attend to."

"Well... how about this, I hire you for a few weeks then, you can decide if you want to work with us instead of these lame Wonderbolts. We have a much better setup and you can have whatever you want. Just try it."

Now it's almost as if she's pleading with you. Still highly suspicious. "I can't decide anyways, it's Wonder Wings who owns my current contract, and I'm not about to disband it."

"And if I can make her sign you off?" You highly doubt she has that power. Wonder Wings herself went through quite a bit of effort to find you and hire you specifically.

"Go ahead and try." You jest before removing your helmet from her head. Now that your so close her scent is almost overpowering, she smells nice, really nice, almost like lily flowers and almonds.

"In that case. See you soon honey. Wonder Wings is a good ol' friend of mine, and I'm sure we can come to... an arrangement."

You ignore her and keep gathering you stuff, ankle belt, baton, vest. You equip everything with her watching intently for some reason.

"Damn you're one handsome son of a gun. I can't wait to have you working with me."

"Don't think too far ahead." you tell her, before escorting her out of your room and towards the exit to the academy. "Please, next time you decide to come here, make an appointment with the secretary or something, don't just turn up in my room otherwise I'll think you're an intruder."

"And what if I am intruding?" She asks, raising an eyebrow curiously.

"I'll have to escort you out of here, a little more roughly."

"And what if I want that?"

"Then good for you." She really starting to get on your nerves. She just doesn't quit.

With you finally finished conversing with the purpley pink gryphoness you send her out to which she blows you a kiss and flies off. You know that's not the last you'll be seeing of her.

Your start your patrol.

Author's Note

Finally slowing down with the rush of my University course, so I have free time again! Yay!

Shuffling about

After a boring night of paroling around the academy premises, your shift finally ends. There has been no Freya and no other problems to deal with. Which leaves you in the early hours of the morning with little time to sleep. Hopefully this time your room is pony and gryphon free. But before that, you better hit the showers. Walking around the academy all night, inside and outside can be dirty work and a nice shower would suit you before bed.

The showers on the academy premises are communal, meaning they're shared, however each pony is assigned a personal locker, even you have one. Which you put your armoured outfit and helmet in just for the moment. The showers are separated into the sexes obviously, and you were right in thinking they'd be empty at this time.

You pick one of the nearer showers, get under it and turn the dial. Cold water splashes over your feathers and fur chilling you. It's not long before the water heats up though, and soon you've got a think fog forming in your vicinity. You can feel the sweat and dirt wash off your azure feathers and you just sit enjoying the moment. Things have been somewhat hectic the past few days, so the least you deserve is a warm shower. The rushing water drowns out all outside senses.

Something taps your shoulder re-awaking you. "Huh?" Turning to the side you spot Spitfire hanging over the wall from the next shower over. "HUH?!"

"Hey Laz. Fancy seeing you here."

You decide not to be embarrassed today. Why bother, you're already feeling a bit tired, and the warm water feels nice. "Oh. Hello Spitfire. What's up?" Is this Lucy or actually Spitfire?

"I just wanted to come and talk to you. Thought I'd hit the showers first since I was smelling a bit."

"So why are you in the guys showers?"

"Does that bother you?"

You shake you head and spread your wings to catch the water flow. "Too tired to be bothered by anything Spitfire." You've enter tired mode, the one time people above your station don't mess with you.

"Well anyways, I just wanted to say sorry about how I was acting when you came to visit me. Being in heat can really screw with your head." Well that explains the mare problems Lucy told you about. And it proves this is the real Spitfire. That's good to know.

You ignore her and face the head of the shower taking a face full of nice hot water then grab a nearby bottle of shampoo. Squeezing it produces no shampoo, you tilt it upside down completely and shake it a few more times. Empty. "Spitfire, can you pass me some shampoo from over there?"

She drops down from hanging over the stall, rustles around a little bit then pops back up with some shampoo from that stall. "Here you go."

"Thanks." You grab it and plop some onto your feathered head and being to rub softly.

"Want help with that?" You're not sure if you should be saying yes or no, but you decide the sexier option.

"Sure." Again Spitfire drops down from hanging over the stall, this time she joins you in you the warm spray of water. Only now do you notice how much nicer this shampoo smells than what the academy normally provides. "Is this your shampoo?"

"Oh, yeah. I bring my own since I prefer it. You don't mind?" She asks with a tilt of her head.

"I already told you. Too tired to care. I just wanna get clean then hit the hay." She nods then stands beside you, reaching up to your head before getting her hooves covered in shampoo and feathers. her hooves are surprisingly soft and feel great rubbing your head. It's more relaxing and you half consider going to sleep right now.

"Not to rough am I?" You shake your head and yawn getting some water into your mouth in the process. "Again, I just wanted to say sorry about the way I was acting Yesterday. I feel really stupid."

"It's fine Spitfire. I'm glad I got to talk with you, sorry that it was at such inappropriate time."

"No, no. Don't be. Honestly, I wouldn't have minded that much if you saw me the way I was." The rush of water partly blocks out what she said.

"What?"

"I was just saying I wouldn't have minded if it was you who saw me in heat."

"Right, and why is that?" You had to ask.

"Cause I know you'd never take advantage of me, even if I wanted you too." She laughs. "Remember that time I was drunk and you kept me safe in your room? I don't, but everypony else does." Yeah, you remember that. It caused a bit of an internal panic that day. "You're.. kind. Too kind sometimes. There's been plenty of mares hitting on you and you've not noticed. Like, right now we're sharing a shower and nothing has even crossed your mind has it?" You'd rather not admit it, but a few things have crossed your mind. Currently you're feeling too relaxed and sleepy to understand any complex emotions. You don't even know half of what your current conversation is about.

"Gryphons are different to ponies in that regard I guess. We tend to wait for someone to be with long term."

"Long term? You mean like marriage?" She finishes lathering your head and moves on to your neck and back.

"No, I mean somepony I feel connected to. I'm sure you understand what I mean right?"

"Soul mate?"

"Eh. Kind of."

"So no casual sex or fooling around?" That question surprised you slightly, but not enough for you to totally wake up. You answer with a slightly shake of your wet head, flinging water in the process. "Wait. Does that mean you're a virgin!?" She asks sounding surprised, stopping her lathering.

"And what if I am?" You ask teasingly.

"Oh I see. That's how it is then. I open up to you and you splash it in my face."

"Nah, that's not it Spitfire. I just don't really have a sex life to talk about, and it's not something that really interests me right now."

"That's a shame. There are plenty of mares who'd love to do you. Myself included."

"What was that?"

"Nothing." She carries on rubbing your back with the soapy water, you can't help but stretch out like a cat would when it has it's back scratched. It feels so nice. "You enjoying this?" Her topic change is sudden but you can't complain and instead opt to nod and purr ever so slightly, the lion part of your body taking over. "I'll take that as a yes. I think I've found your weakness." A faint giggling is heard coming from her.

You and Spitfire spend another ten minutes in the shower just getting clean. But afterwards you feel cleaner than you would normally feel showering alone. Spitfire really went to town on your back. You offered to do her back to repay her, but she declined. Understandable in her situation. When you both feel clean enough you remove yourselves from the shower, dry off and head off to your room, Spitfire in tow.

"You know what Lazuli, you need more time off, so I'm giving you the week off." That was out-of-the-blue.

"Are you allowed to do that? I mean, isn't that Wonder Wing's choice?" You'd love the time off yes, but you're pretty sure it's not possible since your job is so important.

"Yeah, but I'll just mark you down as working even if you're not. She'll never know. You deserve this after all the hard work you've been doing. Besides, we've got a performance coming up soon and you'll need to be ready for that."

Hard work she says. All you've done recently is walk in circles around the academy watching ponies study and fly. There's not been any problems for you to deal with since the Spitfire ambush thing. Maybe just being around is a deterrent and that's what she means. "Are you absolutely sure you can do that Spitfire, I'd rather not get into trouble with the higher ups, let alone bring you into it."

"Just take the next seven days off to relax and chill. Have a sleep in, that sort of thing. Maybe help me with some paperwork." You arrive outside your room and stop to listen to your companion. "It's fine, as long as you promise to spend at least one day with me." That's an offer you can't refuse, a whole week off, and some free time with Spitfire. "Deal?"

"Deal." With all that said and done, you say your goodbyes to Spitfire then retreat into your room and plop onto your bed exhausted.

No snoring.

You sleep for a good few hours and wake up at the end of mid-day just as ponies are beginning to wrap up their activities. You go towards your wardrobe and begin getting out your outfit as is your routine but before you have everything out you remember you've been given the day off, as well as the next six that follow.

Whenever you're tired, things just seem to happen. It's almost like being drunk. You just wake up with random things in your mind. And sometimes in your bed. If it's even your bed you're in.

With the evening being free you start to think what you should do. You could check on Lightning Dust? Or perhaps Soarin and the other lads, it has been awhile since you had some time off with them. Perhaps you could go out for the day, hit the town, spend some money, that sort of thing? It's been quite some time since you last saw Derpy, maybe she's free?

Before you could plan, your door is knocked on. This is becoming habit. "Who wakes me from my slumber?" You ask in a slow deep voice.

"Is that you Lazi? You sound strange."

"Heh. I'm just messing with ya. Come in Dust."

"Hey buddy. I heard on the grapevine you've got a whole week off and was wondering if you'd like to go to Canterlot with me?"

News sure does travel fast in this academy. "Sure. When?" You ask as you open the mini fridge stocked with butter beers and grab one. That could be another day worth of free time doing something. Five left.

"Tomorrow if you're up for it, I've got time off too. Pass one." She points to your fridge, so you hand her the one you're holding and take another for yourself. Then you both crack them open saying: "Cheers."

"Ahh. This is the good stuff."

"Meh, it's alright, why do you like butter beer so much Lazi?" Her question catches you off guard. You don't have a reason why you like them, you just do. So you reply with a shrug of your shoulders.

She slips onto your couch and kicks her hooves up, taking up the whole couch for herself, just what you were going to do. You instead just sit on the edge of your bed, that'll be comfy enough. "So what are we gonna do in the big city?"

"I dunno, just hang out mostly. Maybe watch a film at the cinema and grab a bite to eat. That sort of thing."

"Sounds like fun." It's been awhile since you were last at Canterlot, and even then you didn't get to see much of the city. It should be fun wandering about with Dust. Should be, you've heard many stories about shopping with mares being as bad as the pits of Tartarus. That HAS to be an exaggeration. Right?

"Hey, Lazi you okay? You seem a bit spaced out."

"Oh, sorry. Just not sure what to do with all my spare time. I really shouldn't go too far from the academy, just to be safe."

"You already having second thoughts about Canterlot with me?"

"No no. That's not it at all. I'm sure you've heard there's another gryphon been spotted hanging around here recently." She tilts her head inquisitively. "Well, she said some weird things to me and I'm not sure how I feel about it all."

"What did she say like? Not much seems to startle you."

"Just that I should quit my job here and work for her."

"Wow. That's. That's quite the commitment. You better not have agreed, especially after just helping me get into my next year of studying."

"I didn't, It just seems a bit weird you know? It was very sudden, and a very weird question to ask."

"Yeah, well. Coming to Canterlot with me should help take your mind off things. I can be fun to hang out with."

"Sounds good. Thanks Dust, you've always been here to help and keep me sane." Between her and Spitfire they've both kept things running smoothly around the academy, at first you thought your job was going to be hard, but Spitfire did most of the paperwork behind your back, and Lightning Dust made sure everypony didn't mess around so your job was much easier. They're kind of like your chief and deputy.

"It's not like you've not helped me either. Seems you've got my back and i like that. It's a good feeling knowing this-" She points towards you. "-Is looking out for me."

You take another sip of your flavoured beer. Perhaps she's right, a day in Canterlot would be fun. Then another thought occurs, is this a date? You remember back to what Spitfire said, mares hitting on you without you knowing, surely this could be a prime example? Well, if you had to choose to go on a date with somepony it'd probably be Lightning Dust. She's the kind of pony who wouldn't mind if everything goes wrong.

"Oh and Lazi, before I forget, I heard there's a new residence up for grabs, one of the seniors left and her place is empty. It's a big ass living quarters, not exactly one room. Was wondering if you wanna go half as? There are two bedrooms if you're worried about that. There's also a kitchen and bathroom! We won't have to use the academies facilities anymore. You up for it?"

Hmm. It sounds good, however you're not exactly sure. You've already settled into this room. Then again, you've not exactly got very much furniture here and the only reason you liked this room so much was the neighbours, and Dust wouldn't be a neighbour anymore but instead a room mate.

Worth it!

"Yeah, that sounds pretty cool. So how do we sign up?"

"Well, first you have to be apart of the academy staff, but you already are. So next would be to ask the lady in charge herself, Spitfire. But I'm pretty sure if you ask her, she'll agree. I know she likes you. I mean, she likes you more than everypony else. Well, not more than me, but you erm.. What was I saying?"

"Something about Spitfire."

"Oh yeah. Just go and ask her. I bet you she'll agree." Since you officially have time off, and something to ask Spitfire, you add talking to her to your mental list of things to do.

The next few hours you spend with Dust, she enjoys your company and you hers. Chatting and laughing. Eventually she chooses to leave you alone and carry on with her own things. Which has you on your way to Spitfires office to inquire about the room available. Not as if you've got anything else to do today.

"Hey Spitfire." You greet her as you walk into her workspace. She's got her desk covered in papers again with her head resting on them. It doesn't look very comfortable. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah. Just, you know. New year means I have lots of arranging to do. New students and recruits, what rooms are emptying and what ones will be occupied, sorting out lesson plans, workout routines, performance days and training days, what times the racetrack is available and what times it's not. I could list hundreds of things, but you already get my point don't you?"

You stand shocked. You never really thought Spitfire had THAT much paperwork to do. She's so fit and healthy you'd expect all her spare time to be exercising or something. Turns out you are completely wrong, and you can't help but feel sorry for her. Back in your military days, you did have the occasional day of paperwork and it was murder to do. But this much? There's no way you could do that, but it doesn't stop you for asking her if she needs help. Thankfully she doesn't.

"Nah, you'll be getting your own paperwork soon. Don't worry, it isn't this bad. Just need you to write reports on what went wrong while you were on duty and how to improve said things. Oh, and names of trouble makers, that will be needed pretty soon, or at least before the new season starts. Don't want any assholes corrupting the rest of the residents. Especially after this Lightning Dust incident." So you do have work to do. Maybe that's why she gave you a week off? To catch up on paperwork. Ugh.

"Okay.. I was going to ask you about a certain spare living quarters, but you seem rather busy right now, and I'd-"

Spitfire interrupts. "That reminds me, one of the secretary staff has stopped working here and her place is free now, I was going to ask if you wanted to kick up residence there?" You can't help but wonder if she's talking about the same room that Dust was.

"Is this the two bedroom, one bathroom, one kitchen accommodation you're talking about?"

"Yeah, how'd you know that?"

"Dust told me. Wanted me to ask if me and her could share it."

"Sweet. Well, that's settled at least. One less thing for me to bother with. Guess we're going to be neighbours then. Lucky you!" Huh? So turns out the place Dust was talking about is the one next door to Spitfires private room. Seems to be more and more perks to living there. Maybe this time you can actually get some nice furniture instead of just a couch and fridge.

She shuffles through some papers than writes something down quickly. "Hey Lazuli, wanna go somewhere? I'm sick and tired of all this work. I've not stopped since our shower last night. Not even slept and I'd love a break, even if it's ten minutes."

"Yeah, sure. Where you wanna go?"

"Anywhere. I tell you what, if you are going to moving in next door, we can go shopping for stuff. I can add it to academy expenses so don't worry about that."

"That's not bending the rules again is it Spitfire? Because if it is, you'll eventually get found out, and I'd rather you stay in the good books of Wonder Wings. She looks like she could be real mean if she wanted to."

"I know right? But don't worry your feathered head, me and her are good friends, she knows how much I'm worth and won't argue that much."

"If you say so." You just wanted to check, the last thing you want is a friend getting into trouble simple because she wanted to spend time with you. She gets up and leaves her office nudging to follow, before she could get particularly far from her office another pony introduces herself. Green coat and icy blue mane and tail, not a familiar mare, maybe she's one of the new blood?

"Oh, Lucy. Do me a favour and keep an eye on my office while I'm out will ya?" Spitfire asks the mare. You don't recognize the mare, but instead recognize the name. Could it be Lucy the changeling? Just when you agree to disagree with yourself she pats you on the head like you discussed. So this is what her disguise is when not being Spitfire. "Do you two know each other?" Spitfires voice interrupts your train of thought.

"Long story." You state, not wanting to explain how you know Lucy.

"She's a good friend of mine, helps me when I get swamped with things." Yeah, you already knew. "Oh, and here's your room. Or will be yours and Lightning Dusts room." You hadn't noticed, but the entire time you were talking you were walking too, and only now have you stopped. "Want to see the inside? It's much bigger than my own, but I got my own office so I don't really care." You nod, slightly excited to investigate this larger residence.

Upon entering the first thing you notice is the large living area. It's empty right now, but could easily fit a couple couches, chairs and a table, it's also connected directly to the kitchen, which is mostly a fridge, cooker, microwave and a large counter opposite them. More than enough space to mess with. Maybe you can learn to cook your own salmon, though if you were to try right now, the academy would be up in flames in seconds. On the opposite side of living space from the kitchen are the doors to the bedrooms, inside are only beds, but they're doubles. One of the rooms has a closet built into the wall with loads of space for clothing. Not that you would need that. Guess this would be Dusts room. The last thing of note would be the bathroom, connected to the main living space via a small corridor with a broom cupboard. Nothing of interest inside either besides your own shower.

After your investigation of the room you look at Spitfire and smile. "I like it. I'll take two." She laughs. "Plenty of space, big beds, nice shower, and a kitchen. What more could I ask for?" Nothing really. Honestly, you'd be fine in a tent, anything more is luxury. You have to admit, since getting this job, luxuries are becoming more common.

"Glad you like it, don't forget the best part though! You'll be next door to me! Which means I can pester the both of you whenever I want." Suddenly the room doesn't feel so perfect after all. Spitfire and Dust, both pranksters living in close proximity to one another? There going to be plenty of early mornings and late nights for you.

You spend quite awhile chatting with Spitfire, the hours seem to fly by, you talk with her so long you start to crave food and it's only when you hear Spitfires stomach growl does she invite you to investigate a recently opened noodle restaurant. So here you are. inside a smallish building with a bar infront. There are bamboo walls and the décor is red and white, not quite like anything you've seen. The owner isn't pony nor gryphon which surprises both you and Spitfire but a strange thin dragon with an impressively long moustache and a chefs hat plus apron combo.

You both ordered a plain bowl of noodles, and instead got these fancy bowls full of noodles with all sorts of extras added. Your bowl has some prawns in it, which is surprisingly nice combined with all the unidentifiable ingredients. Spitfire's has no such meat but instead two boiled eggs and even more strange green things. You both thank the dragon who responds with a simple bow then leaves you to your delicious noodles.

"Damn, these are good ain't they Laz?" You nod, being too busy chewing to warrant talking. "We should come here again." Maybe that's why these noodles taste so good? The owner needs business so he clearly makes the first bowl overly nice as to attract you back for more. Sneaky.

"Yeah, if you're up for it."

"I totally would be, especially if you come along. It's awesome having somepony to talk to about things and just take a break with."

"Glad I could lend an ear or two." You admit.

"I'll be honest with you, I'm just so stressed out right now you know? I hate the start of a new year, so much work. Ugh. Not to mention I'm not feeling quite myself these days." She squirms in her chair looking a tad uncomfortable. "It sucks being Captain. It was fun at the start, but now. Can't somepony else take over? So much work, and I'm the stupid poster-girl. And you know what that means?" You shake your head, slightly concerned for her. "Can't get myself a stallion. Apparently I need to be single to help bring in crowds of young males." That you understand, but not sure why she's telling you now of all times.

"Can't you date in secret or something?" You sort of know the situation she's in, relationships with other soldiers wasn't allowed during your service. You yourself have been single for ages, but it hasn't bothered you before.

"No way, could you imagine the press if they caught me. I'd get a right scolding from Wonder Wings and maybe even booted for misconduct or something stupid. Ugh. Like I said, it sucks." As those words leave her lips she rests her head onto the bar and sighs heavily.

There's always more to the Wonderbolts than what meets the eye. Even your eyes. None of these problems would have even crossed your mind before, even now it's hard to comprehend all the internal problems they suffer from. Maybe Spitfire needs a holiday too. "Sorry about telling you all this Laz. Just needed to vent." She lifts her head up once more, with a slight one sided smile. "At least I get to mess with the recruits and the other members."

"And me?"

"And you. How could I forget? You're like the most fun to tease, you get flustered so easily. Except when you're tired. It's like talking to an emotionless brick wall when you're tired."

"I get that alot."

"I bet you do." She laughs. Not sure if it's at you, or just with you, but you laugh either way. The next hour is spent eating noodles and chatting. Mostly chatting. Once you finish your lovely flavoured noodles the dragon brings you both a shot of something to drink, whatever it is, it smelt really really strong.

"Sake. Drink." The dragon gesture to the shot. It's a bit early to be drinking alcohol, but you do anyways. You open your beak and tilt the drink into your waiting maw. WOW. That was strong. You throat is warmer and you want to cough but hold it back. Instead you nod your head and smile towards the dragon, not wanting to offend him. Spitfire holds herself together surprisingly well bar the water in her eyes.

You both laugh again. So far the day has gone smoothly, unlike that drink, and tomorrow will also be fun. "Thanks for the time off Spitfire, but I'm still going to be on guard at the very least. Remember you can always count on me for my help. That being said, Lightning Dust has asked me to go with her to Canterlot tomorrow, so I won't be around."

"That was fast. It's just like her." You both agree. "Well, I hope you have fun on your date, maybe we could go out on one after I get this paperwork done?" Spitfire suggests but before you can respond she finishes with; "Nah, who am I kidding, I'm never getting this paperwork done anytime soon. Not if I'm out here eating noodles instead."

You're not sure how to respond so you just smile. Spitfire pays the dragon and you both go about your business.

Author's Note

Quick chapter before the date in Canterlot.

An electrical day

The train to Canterlot takes a few hours, but you have Lightning Dusts company to keep you sane. Her happy face and head bobbing to some random music says plenty about her attitude for the day. You've not seen her this excited since forever. Lightning Dust seems to have dressed up for the occasion, making you feel a little bad about not doing so yourself. Then again, it's not as if you've got anything fancy in particular to wear anyways. She doesn't seem to mind either way.

There are only a couple minutes left before arriving in Canterlot and you take a glance out the window to watch snow falling gently outside. With Canterlot quickly approaching Dust seems giddier than ever. "So what's the plan once we arrive Dust?" You ask her, genuinely interested.

"Haven't really thought about that. We have to check out Canterlot castle. I'm not sure what time it opens, but I'm sure we can find a way in somehow. There's supposed to be an eerie dungeon with all sorts of weird and crazy torture devices beneath the castle, and I'm determined to find it. There should also be treasure for you hoarding types."

"Hoarding types?"

"Don't play innocent, even I know gryphons love hoarding shiny things." It's true but you don't admit it. "After searching the castle for treasure and intel we could go get some food then maybe poke around some shops. Canterlot has plenty to see and do, we shouldn't get bored anytime soon." She's smiling the entire time she's talking, her excitement is starting to get to you, and it's not long before you're wishing the train could go faster. A tunnel quickly approaches and as the train steams into the tunnel the carriages go dark before the internal lights turn on. No much further to go now.

When you finally arrive both of you are excited, however it's Dust who pulls you out of your seat and off the train, causing quiet the rukus in doing so. You apologize to the other patrons on the train for being rude but their attitudes are all similar. Fear

Outside the train, slow falling snow has built up a small layer on the ground and the temperature has dropped. Thankfully your feathers keep you warm enough and Dust has a puffy jacket on. "Brrr. I did hear that it was going to be cold today, but this is worse than I thought." Dust visibly shivers. Her jacket apparently not providing much warm contrary to it's looks. "Better get in doors before we catch a cold."

It's only a ten minute walk to the castle from the station, but you couldn't get indoors quick enough. Inside it's warmer, much warmer, only now did you realize how cold it was outside. The guards stand at attention not reacting to your presence or the weather. "Oh hey Lazi, Look at these guys." She trots up to one of the guards and starts to wave her hoof infront of his face. She then sticks out her tongue and crosses her eyes making the most ridiculous face you've seen. She looks so stupid, but you're half tempted to join her. "They don't react at all. Just like I was told."

"Better not pester them too much, we might get kicked out."

"Damn. I guess you're right." She stops messing around thankfully, then goes looking for the front desk leaving you alone with the guard. You walk up to the guard, wondering if you being a gryphon could get a reaction.

Nothing.

You examine him closely. Deciding what to say or do. Ah-ha! You lean back and say- "Marco."

"Pol-" He stops halfway through saying polo. His eyes glance side to side looking for other guards that may or may not have witnessed his fumble. You pat him on the shoulder and go looking for Dust.

"Hey Lazi, the mare here says the castle is closed for visitors until later. Can you please have a word with her?" You follow her words and greet the pony behind the desk. How you're supposed to convince her to allow you and Dust to trespass is beyond you.

"So it really is you Lazuli? Long time no see!" You look towards her with a blank expression, quickly scrounging your mind for details on who exactly you're talking to. "Remember? We were a duo back in the military? Nopony wanted to partner with you so you got me instead." Dust just stands listening in, somewhat interested in the conversation. You quickly search your mind again for any ponies resembling the green mare infront of you but still come up with nothing. "When this lovely mare- what's your name lass?"

"Lightning Dust, pleased to meet you."

"Likewise. Anyways, when Lightning Dust here told me she was with a gryphon, I thought of the only gryphon I ever met, you. Knew I'd see you again, what's it been, one or two years? Maybe even three now that I think about it." You can't help but feel a bit guilty, she remembers you, but you can't quite recall her name.

"You and Lazi used to work together?" Dust asks her.

"Yeah. I'm Fuchsia, me and him were somewhat of a combat training duo. Never could beat him though, so instead I used to play pranks on him. He gets flustered so easily it's great." Lightning Dust agrees, nodding her head in a silent approval.

You remember her now. Fuchsia, another prankster pony you've been good friends with. "What're you doing being a secretary here, in Canterlot castle?" You ask, changing the topic from yourself to herself.

"Ah, I'm not actually a secretary, I'm guarding. I've just been given the job to assess and allow ponies in for tours. The job pays well and isn't dangerous. The place is closed right now, but I can let you two go, I know I can trust Lazuli not to wreck the place or do anything dumb. He's like that isn't he?" She looks towards Dust who again nods. "Unless you dare him while he's drunk, he'll do almost anything then."

"HEY! Stop giving away my weaknesses."

Lightning Dusts expression turns to that of a pony who knows something you don't, and is far to proud of that fact. "I'll be honest, never expected you to get a marefriend, let alone one as good looking as this lass." You stand, waiting for her to finish mocking you. "Good for you. Finally conquered your obliviousness."

What? Is she still talking?

"You can go now. Feel free to explore, be sure to say bye to me before you leave." You nod before Dust starts pushing you away from the desk. "Don't do anything reckless you two, and don't pester the guards."

When you finally get away from Fuchsia and her backhanded mockery you feel a weight lifted from your chest. Looking around the large open rooms makes you feel small, the overly spacious interior of the castle intimidates you. The smooth marble floors are cool to walk on, but the warm interior makes up for it. You've been in the castle before, but never had a chance to look around properly.

Dust is currently in a long corridor going door to door opening them, peaking inside, then getting disappointed when it's not something particularly interesting. Broom cupboard here, boiler room there. No stairwell leading to some sort of torture dungeon unfortunately.

You patiently follow Dust, keeping an eye on her as she thoroughly searches the castle grounds. All the guards you pass leave you and Dust alone, allowing her freedom to explore. You'd think they'd be all over a trespassing gryphon, but apparently not today. Maybe Fuchsia had a word with them, or perhaps they're not very good guards.

As you follow Dust, you pass two overly friendly guards who are off duty, they offer you both some sandwiches which you both politely decline. You ask them why none of the guards have approached you, besides themselves. "You're a v.i.p. Very important pony- er." "He'd be a very important gryphon not a very important pony." "I guess you're right." You and Dust both have a little chuckle at the guards before continuing onwards.

Before you can get very far Dust thinks back to the sandwiches and remembers that neither of you have eaten anything today, and so she decides not to continue her exploring. Thankfully since the only place she's not wandered is the upper castle, which is off limits for everypony, besides the princesses and a few highly trusted guards. Instead she agrees for the both of you to get some good food at a local cafe.

On your way out you both stop by Fuchsia again and have another chat. This time it's you who has to drag Dust away for Fuchsia after an eternity of conversation. It's only been two hours since you entered the castle, but it feels like you spend that time alone listening to Dust and Fuchsia talk about you.

Outside's still cold, colder if anything. The gently falling snow has increased it's pace and shows no signs of slowing down let alone stopping. Dust voices her complaints up into the air. "So Freaking cold today. I did hear it was going to be snowing, but this feels more like a blizzard." You can't help but think she's over reacting, yes it is snowing, but not half bad. It's quite nice actually. Maybe pegasi feel the cold more, or maybe Dust just hates snow. Either way, she's not too happy about the snowfall. "Cafe is this way, hurry!"

You follow her trotting pace through the crunching snow leaving claw, paw and hoof prints behind. She takes you to what would only be described as an indoor mall. It's pretty cold inside but even still it's warmer than the outside right now. Shops line the walls of the large indoor stadium type building. The roof is glass and opaque due to snowfall. Dust leaves no time waiting or gawking, instead she makes a beeline towards a cafe, gesturing a "Come hither" for you to follow.

"Cafe Arriba huh?" Sounds good. Dust is sitting at a table in the far corner next to a window. Before you go sit with her, you order two coffees, yours strong and black and hers weaker, but probably just as nice. You wait patiently for your order and when it arrives pay and take the drinks over to Dust.

"You know, we never found that dungeon. It must be well hidden, it's not like I was expecting to find it first time mind you. Sweet you bought coffee!" She takes a sip of her coffee and quickly recoils, steam venting from her mouth. "OW! Hot hot hot." She sticks out her tongue and blows air from her lungs trying to cool it down. She looks so silly right now you can't help but laugh.

"Hot?"

"I know. I know. Just couldn't help myself. Jeeze." After a few minutes of her blowing on her drink she finally accepts it's cool enough and drinks a mouthful before talking to you again. "Hey Lazi, I just wanted to say thank you." You tilt your head, asking why without words. "You know, for coming here with me today. I know you've got time off, but you're normally so busy. Just wanted you to know I'm happy you came."

"Wouldn't want to miss hanging out with you Dust." Between Lightning Dust and Spitfire, you've been finding yourself in more funny and enjoyable situations. Why would you want to miss an opportunity like this?

"If I'm honest, you're like.. erm. How do I put this.." She stops talking for awhile, concentrating her thoughts so hard you can almost see them, but she doesn't answer. She does however develop a light blush on her cheeks, tempting you to prod her out of her trance like state. Instead you wave a claw infront of her face, startling her.

"Are you feeling alright today Dust?" You ask, concerned for her well-being. You place a claw on her forehead to check her temperature, she just sits with her mouth slightly open. "You feel fine to me."

"I am fine. I was just thinking, that's all."

"Must have been thinking pretty hard."

"Yeah." Is all she says.

"You gonna tell me what it was about? or just tease me like this?" You take a mouthful of your own coffee. Surprisingly nice considering it's not your own home brew.

"It was just about how I find you... like.. my best friend? Maybe more.. Erm. Look, you know how I'm kinda cocky, bashful and all that. Well, I find expressing my.. feelings, a bit harder than most. I've never really been in this situation before, and well.. I like it. This day that is. Right?"

"Yeah?" You're still waiting for the main point of her conversation. She's not gotten much explained so far.

"Dates I mean. Ugh, I sound so lame right now don't I?"

"Haha, no. It's kinda cute seeing you act all shy like this." You catch her off guard with that comment, her mouth hangs open and her cheeks go pinker. It really is adorable.

"I urm. But. You.. Huh? D..Do" Her stuttering is also pretty adorable.

"Calm down Dust. Take a deep breath then continue."

She does exactly that. "Don't say things like that, you're embarrassing me. Ugh. All I wanted to say was, this is my first.. d..date."

"Really? You've never been on a date before?" You ask instinctively, without hesitation which thinking now might have been the wrong thing to do. "I mean, I'd expect all the guys would be asking you out."

"It's my attitude okay. Back when I was younger, all I cared about was improving myself, and that was it. Didn't care about anypony else and I came off looking like an ass. The fact I'm such a good flier has attracted a few stallions, but I've never really cared, well. Up until now. The feeling of having someone to talk and share experiences with is awesome. I'd be just as happy joining the Wonderbolts as spending time with you."

"You'll get into the Wonderbolts Dust. That's almost certain."

"Personally I wouldn't mind if I didn't make it anymore. As long as I've got you. Crap, I sound all sappy now. Great. Look what you made me do!" She punches your shoulder softly and giggles. So that answer the question of if she likes you. Clearly she does, and you like her too. Now what's next?

You take another mouthful of coffee. "I'm glad we're friends too Dust." In retrospect, that was probably not the right thing to say to this situation. It's too late now.

"Yeah I know. We're good friends. I just... wish.. that.. Just tell that feather butt." You faintly catch what she said to herself and decide to encourage her.

"Wish what?"

"I.. wish that we could. No, Would you.. erm."

"Would I what?"

"Would you. Would you.. be my uhh..."

"Yes?"

"Be my partNEVERMIND!" Her shyness defeats her. You'd never expect such a brash pony such as Lightning Dust to have such a shy side, it's really sweet, but it's also a bit troubling as it's really hindering her talking.

"Dust. Just tell me. You've got me all excited now, I have to know! Can't leave me on a cliffhanger." You try to encourage her to just say it. It's pretty obvious what she's trying to say.

"I can, and I will." She looks pretty sad with herself. This you can't let go.

"If something's wrong, I'll fix it and if something isn't wrong, I'll break it." It wasn't the best thing to say, but these conversations can get to anyone, even you.

"Fine, but I can't tell you right now. Maybe later?" You sigh, but reluctantly agree. "Finish your coffee and we can get moving." After saying that, she downs the rest of her own coffee, now slightly cold after talking so long. You copy her and finish your own.

After your little socializing session and drinks, Dust takes you shopping. It's indoors at least, so neither of you will be getting too cold. The first shop on her list is some sort of sweet shop. Inside is bright pink and very colourful. Shelves of all sorts of multicoloured candy line the walls of the shop.

Dust spends no time in picking her favourites. She doesn't stop there though. "Want some Candy floss Lazi?"

"Nah."

"A chocolate bar"?

"Nah."

"Some marshmallows?"

"No."

"How about, liquorice?"

"Nope."

"Hmm. Popping candy?"

"No."

"Sugar free gummy bears?"

"Aren't the reviews of those pretty bad?"

"I dunno. Come on, just let me buy you something. How about some lollipops?"

"Fine." You don't really want anything, but you feel like she'll just keep asking unless you accept her offer. So you do. She doesn't take just one though, oh no. She takes like, five or six. When she finally decides to buy everything, she has a pretty large bag filled with all sorts of nibbles.

The next shop is a clothing store, outside on a bench are a few random stallions talking. Dust once again gestures a "come hither" and you do so. Inside is far to fancy for yourself, and possibly Dust, but she continue anyways. She doesn't stop to look at any of the normal cloths though and heads straight for the...

"So Lazi. What pair do you like better?" She hold up two sets of bikinis. One small and black, the other striped blue and white. You take a deep breath and calm yourself.

"I prefer the ones you wore during the lap dance you gave me awhile ago."

She blinks a few times. Then laughs. "Stripes it is." After the slightly awkward situation, she carries on browsing the underwear with you in tow. You look a little out of place, but thankfully Dust is there to prove you're not THAT perverted. She ends up with a few pairs of panties and other miscellaneous items before buying them and finally leaves the shop.

You're carrying two bags now.

The next shop is a furniture store, you honestly don't mind checking this place out, after all you do need new furniture for the room you two will soon be sharing. You look at some tables and chairs, some mahogany some oak, some walnut. All look pretty good, Dust is over the far side of the shop, browsing Celestia only knows what. You mark a few things as maybes and might come back later, but for now you don't need anything. Dust has done the exact same thing. "We need to come back here and buy a whole load of stuff to decorate."

"You can afford that? Aren't you just a student though?"

"Me afford it? Nope. But you could. You never seem to buy anything, and the academy provides you with everything you really need, so I bet you've got a heap of money saved up."

"And what if I do? What if I want to spend it on something really expensive, like a yacht, castle, or a lifetime membership at a strip club?"

"Uh-huh. I know you well enough Lazi, you'd just buy some buttered beers and maybe some fish." She's pretty much spot on. Who needs a yacht or castle.

"You're right. What's mine is yours." You say half serious. Dust just looks at you sneakily. Like she's got an idea that you'd might not like.

The last store you both go in is a post-office type news store. It sells books and newspapers with all the latest topics and headlines. You're not sure why Dust wanted to go here, but you're simply following her. She buys a couple books and a newspaper. You try to ask her what books she's buying, but she refuses to tell.

Finally done shopping you go outside carrying her bags. The entire time you've been indoors it's been snowing outside, the layer of snow covering the ground has gotten thick in the least trodden places. The temperature has managed to get colder too, causing even you to shiver underneath all your warm feathers.

"Hey, Dust. Do you think the trains are still going?" The thought just popped into your mind and you had to ask. Ice and snow can be pretty good at delaying trains.

"They should be right? It's only snow."

"I think we should check." She doesn't disagree and you both walk back to the station, sure enough the trains have been cancelled. Apparently they're going looking for a snow plough for some of the longer distance trains, but the ones to Ponyville are cancelled outright. You turn to Dust and look at her expecting some sort of plan. You don't exactly have your own.

"Hey, don't look at me. I didn't think it was going to be snowing all day. Nor did I think it was going to be this cold." She shivers, reminding you how much colder she must be than yourself.

"No point in standing here all day. Any ideas?" She shakes her head a few times. "We can't fly back in this, too far in this cold. I could do it without these bags, but I'm not leaving you behind. Only other option I can think of is to stay here overnight."

"Oh yeah! Whoops, I didn't think about that. I know just the place! Perfect for an emergency overnight stay. Meet you back here in twenty minutes, I'll go let them know we'll be staying, you go to the grocers for some food and drink. The place I have in mind doesn't cater, but does allow residents to bring their own noms."

"Okay then. Cya in twenty." With that said, you leave her to trot off in the cold and begin looking for a grocers.

After twenty or maybe thirty minutes, Dust finally returns with a smug look on her face. You hold up a bag of food to show her you've done your part and await her response. "Yup, we got the place for two nights."

"Two?"

"Yeah, apparently there is a nasty blizzard coming in, I thought it would be safer to book for a bit longer."

"Why can't you pegasi deal with the snow?"

"That's not how it works Lazi. Pegasi can only do so much, this is something else. We'll be safe as long as we stay on the ground and keep warm. Come on, let's go." She does her third "come hither" gesture today and you sigh, not wanting to argue. You'd rather not have to stay in a hotel, but it's better than staying out in the cold, so you follow her.

After ten minutes of walking you have a bad feeling where she's taking you, the streets feel familiar. Like that time you got assigned to guard some important stallion who'd constantly visit a very particular brothel. You get a nervous feeling, just when you're about to ask her, you arrive. "The love cube?"

Yep. It's a love hotel. You didn't think Canterlot had these sorts of places.

"Look, I know this looks bad, but trust me, I know this place. N..not like that though! I.. I just know a friend who's been here, and well she. She said it was good. Not sure if she meant the building or the services. Anyways! It looks really nice inside, and it was pretty cheap too!"

You want to argue, but it's too late for that, it won't solve anything and can only makes things worse for the both of you. Instead you just go with the flow. "Fine. We've got two nights here right?" She nods enthusiastically. "Let's just get inside and sit down for now."

Inside is better than what you had in mind, thought the red and purple colour scheme leaves little to the imagination of what this building is for. Dust goes to the front desk to get your room key and takes you to the room where you'll be staying for the next two nights.

The room is sized nicely, a large double bed for sharing is the rooms centre piece. More deep red and soft purple create a seductive mood. There's even a bucket filled with ice and two bottles of high quality brand champagne. Brilliant. "I told you this place was okay Lazi. Look, the bed is so soft!" Uh oh. You can see her getting excited again.

She climbs onto the bed and bounces on it. It does look kinda fun, and you decide, to hell with it. You're both here now, why not have fun. You put the shopping bags on the ground and test the soft springiness of the bed with a claw. Soon you join her on top of the bed and begin jumping. It looks silly, but it's really fun.

After another thirty minutes of jumping on a nice bed and playing stupid games with one another such as who could bounce the highest, while trying to stop the other from bouncing higher. You're both tired and somewhat sweaty. Who knows what the neighbours are thinking.

Thankfully this room comes with an en suite. As you both lay down on your backs, laughing and panting at the same time Dust speaks up. "Hey Lazi, before we go to bed, wanna take a hot shower with me?"

"Sounds pretty tempting, but I doubt we'd both fit."

"Your loss." She stands up and gives the bed one last bounce before jumping off and heading into the bathroom, leaving you alone to rest. The bed needs reformatting after your session and you get to fixing the covers immediately. It's an army thing. After tiding the bed you rummage through the groceries you bought and find a nice apple to quickly much on. As you sit on the edge of the bed chewing your apple you listen to the sound of running water and humming from Dust. Even thought you hadn't planned on staying in Canterlot overnight, it's not been a bad day.

Dust finally leaves the shower, she comes out looking rather nice, still dripping, but it's not your house so it's allowed. You get up off the bed and pat her as you pass. You take a pretty quick shower but clean yourself pretty thoroughly. The water is nice and warm.

When you get out Dust is face first on the bed, sleeping you think. You check the time before agreeing it is a bit late, and sleeping wouldn't be a bad idea. You leave her alone and crawl into the blankets on the opposite side of the bed carefully, not wanting to disturb her. Once in, you turn off the bedside light, allowing the room to go Dark. The only light being that of the moon shining against the curtains. It's then you heard your bedmate yawn.

"That you Lazi?"

"Yeah. Nice and clean now, how are you?"

"Fine, I was just dozing. Now that you're here I can finally get some sleep." You're not sure why she decided to wait for you before going to sleep, but it doesn't matter. You're comfy, she's comfy, you're both comfy. Nothing matters.

She wriggles up against you, until her side is touching your back. You turn over to check on her, wondering if she's okay. She instead just looks at you with puppy dog eyes before wrapping a hoof around your chest and hugging you silently. You don't protest, it's been a somewhat busy day for you and you're tired now. You simply let her do as she wants, her body heat and embrace are both nice and only help seduce you to sleep.

Neither of you snore.

Unsurprisingly you're the first to wake in the morning. With a light yawn and a quick rub of the eyes you get out of the bed. You look over Dust who is sleeping soundly beside where you were. You go over to the curtains and open them only to be blinded by the light. When your pupils finally adjust to the light you can tell it's been snowing all night. It has stopped now, leaving a thick layer of white snow to reflect the suns rays directly into your retinas.

Your stomach rumbles indicating the need for food, the groceries your had bought yesterday should have some breakfast cereals in. Shame you've not got any milk, but dry cereal isn't too bad. It's the energy you need more than anything. You hear bed sharer yawn and draw your attention. "Morning sleepyhead."

She yawns again. "Same to yoOOO!" She recoils quickly, shielding her eyes from the suns rays. "Why is it so bright outside, close those curtains!" You can help but laugh.

"I had the same reaction"

"Huh? Wait. What're you doing in my room Lazi?" You look at her puzzled. She looks around before it finally clicks. "Oh right. Yeah. This isn't my room. Haha. Whoops." You laugh again. "Well, I look stupid now. Anyways, how'd you sleep Mr Feathers?"

"Mr Feathers? If you mean me, I slept well."

"I'm feeling pretty dirty today, in more ways than one."

"Want me to run a shower?" You ask.

"Yes please." You go into the bathroom and do as you said you would and begin to run a shower, it usually takes awhile for the water to heat up but it's already hot today, either this hotel has brilliant boilers, or somepony else is already awake and using hot water. You go back to Dust and let her know it's already hot.

"You're joining me this time aren't ya?" She asks, not moving from the bed.

"I'll go in after if you're okay with that."

"Aww man, please! You need a shower just as much as I do." She's right, but you can always wait. "I'm not moving unless you come in with me." Why does she want you in there with her? There has to be a reason, probably a lewd one. Looking back at Dust shows her laying motionless like a potato in bed, waiting for you to take her to the shower. You roll her over a few times, then off the bed with a light thud. You'd expect her to get up after that, but she doesn't. She's determined not to move, and you're determined to move her. Using your strength, you drag her backwards into the bathroom.

When you turn to leave, she grabs your back leg and pulls, tripping you. Instincts kick in and you react, they're too slow and instead you end up landing right on top of Dust. At least she's soft. "Holy shit, are you okay Dust?"

She nods, wheezing a bit. "I'm fine." You get up then offer her your claw to help her up.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to fall on you. Tried to balance myself and failed." She just laughs. You convince her to shower alone, and then take your own shower after. The next few minutes the both of you get ready for the new day.

"Hey Lazi, we should go to the cafe Arriba again today. We can get a nice drink and talk about what to do for the day. Sound good?" It sure does, hot drink and conversation, both are lovely things in the morning.

Outside the snowing has stopped but the cold is still present. There's more than enough snow covering the ground in certain areas, but the main paths are unhindered thankfully as you wouldn't want to fly in such cold. Following Dust towards the mall shows just how early it is, there only being one other pony outside at this time.

When you do arrive, the cafe too is almost empty, the only other customer being a old stallion in the corner with a newspaper and piping hot beverage. This time, Dust decides to get the order, you didn't get the chance to tell her what you wanted so this'll be either a surprise, or black coffee.

She comes over with two large hot chocolate drinks, both with cream, sprinkles and marshmallows on top. It looks delicious, making you wish you had ordered one yesterday. You can't wait to have a taste wondering if it is as good as it looks. In being so hasty to drink the amazing hot chocolate you end up with squirty cream over your beak, making you go a bit cross-eyed.

Dust wipes it off and eats it without a care in the world. "Since we're both here another day, I was thinking maybe we could go see a movie, I think Pone alone is on right now. We could also go clubbing tonight if that interests you. I remember when we won that tug-of-war and the reward was a reservation at that club, erm. What was it called again? Bah, I was looking forward to going there." Yes you do remember that time, it was quite the night. What you don't remember is seeing Dust there. As if sensing your thoughts she explains. "I wasn't allowed to go due to being behind on some work. I wanted to see everypony drunk! including you."

"You really don't want to see me after my tenth buttered beer."

"Yes. Yes I do." She replies matter of factly. Maybe she's got some evil plans now that Fuchsia told her one of your weaknesses. Even with the probability of being the victim of a terrible prank, clubbing with Dust sounds fun, that and you've got nothing else planned. Plus you're stuck here for the day so you may as well have some fun.

Author's Note

I've pretty much split this chapter in 2 parts, i was going to have lemons here, but i didn't quiet get the mood, perhaps next chapter depending on response.