Where Were Those Two?

by Just Reading

Rating: mature
Tags: Princess Cadance, Adventure, Shining Armor, Sex, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Romance
Length: 264782

A greedy princess, eager to free herself from the burden of one student to take on another, sent Shining and Cadence on a journey simply meant to busy. It turned into so much more.

Celestia had heard of Twilight Sparkle first through Cadence's ravings about the young filly she babysat. The younger princess's tales had intrigued her, the filly described seeming to fit the prophecy perfectly.

Discovering Twilight was the perfect candidate, Celestia found herself with another block in the road. Almost all of her free time was spent teaching Cadence how to act as a princess. Eager to trade one student for another the manipulative Celestia comes up with another plan.

Published 2013-10-27 12:40:02 UTC
Last updated 2015-03-29 23:06:04 UTC

Celestia's Schemes

“Come on Twilight, just a few more steps.” Wanting to please, Twilight reached a purple hoof for the next step, the platform of wood seeming miles away. Her legs, unable to hold without the fourth supporting, gave way, allowing her to fall into a glowing bed of blue.

“You shouldn’t push her so hard Shining,” Cadence warned, cradling Twilight in her magic as the trio continued their ascent. “She’s still a young filly, and very tired at that.”

“I just want to help her get stronger,” Shining Armor replied defensively, trailing the pink rump upstairs, unable to stop his eyes from instinctively stealing glances. “It’s kinda disappointing that she hasn’t gotten her cutie mark yet, I want to help her along.”

Cadence stopped, twisting her neck to catch Shining’s eyes in a compromising position. A raised brow her only reaction. “I still don’t have my cutie mark,” She stated, her faux seriousness ruined by the hint of a smile. “Are you telling me that’s bad?”

“No,” Shining fidgeted nervously, failing to catch Cadence’s slip. His mind churned, trying to both satisfy Cadence’s question and defend his previous statement. “But that’s different. You’re an alicorn and your cutie mark will be special.”

“What makes you so sure Twilight’s cutie mark won’t be special as well?” Cadence questioned, managing to control her lips into a tight line. “For all you know she could be the next princess.” Shining’s lips mouthed silent words, his mind unable to formulate a response to push between them.

“Please don’t fight,” Twilight called from her cradle of blue, her tired voice catching the arguing pair’s attention. “It makes me sad to see you two fight over me.”

“Oh don’t worry sweetie we weren’t fighting,” Cadence’s face and tone transformed, warming up to the filly. “I was just teasing your brother. Why don’t we get you to bed?” Twilight nodded at the prospect, her glee too obvious to Shining.

“And no reading in the dark tonight,” He said, his hard tone drawing a moan from Twilight. “A growing filly needs her sleep.”

Finding Twilight’s pleading eyes turned on her, Cadence replied with a knowing look. “It’s true Twilight, you need rest,” She agreed, adopting a motherly tone.

“But I need to study magic,” Twilight begged, her eyes quavering, a bubble of light on her black pupils trembling.

Stepping past Cadence, Shining nosed open the door directly left of the stairs, revealing the organised chaos of his younger sister’s room. “You can read books all you want tomorrow, when it’s the weekend.” Giving Twilight no time to reply, Cadence levitated her through the doorway, dodging pillars of books to rest Twilight on the star cloaked bed.

Finding herself suddenly too tired to protest, Twilight stretched her jaw in a yawn, sleep pulling her eyes shut. Cadence and Shining pathed their way between the stacks, Twilight’s breathing already falling into a soft rhythm as the arrive at her bedside. Blue magic tucked the purple filly away, only her head still peeking out from under the nightsky.

“You are so lucky to have such a cute little sister Shining,” Cadence whispered, the pair backing away from the bed, careful, silent. “It sometimes makes me wish that I knew who my parents were.” An oak door now between her and the sleeping filly, Cadence allowed her voice to louden. “Just think, I could have a little sister out there somewhere, I could be putting her to bed right now.”

“But then you would miss out on me.” Filling his chest with air, Shining Armor looked half colt, half pool-toy.

“Oh don’t think I forgot you,” Cadence replied, her tone sending a shiver down Shining’s spine. “How long do we have till your parents arrive home?”

Shining released a breath, attempting to calm his flustered thoughts. “They said they’d be out all night,” He answered, finally able to pick the wanted thought from the sea of fantasies. “Something to do with an important pony taking them out for something.”

Pleased with the response, Cadence blew a breathy kiss to the blushing colt, chasing the projectile with a pink tongue peeking between her lips. “Why don’t we have some fun then?” Stepping through the door opposite Twilight’s, Cadence led the way over the spotless floor to rest on Shining’s double bed, Shining closing the door behind.

Stroking the satin sheets she had picked out herself, Cadence allowed her eyes to wander the room as Shining stumbled over slowly, a red fire burning at his cheeks. The room was one of Cadence’s pet projects. With her spending as much time in it as she did Canterlot Palace, she wanted it to look nice, not be filled with coltish posters and piles of rubbish.

The curtains were a special magical fabric that became more opaque in the moonlight, allowing her a view of the night through the room’s balcony window. A rug partially covers the wood-planked floor, one of its corners tucked underneath the bed.

The bed was specially designed, a springless mattress, cushioned magically, made to stay quiet during Shining and her late night ventures. Not wanting to overtake the room too much, Cadence had decided against a pink color scheme, instead matching the room to Shining’s mane and coat.

Shining climbed silently onto the bed alongside Cadence, his best attempt at a seductive look on his features. Giggling at Shining’s effort, Cadence mirrored the expression, quickly cracking Shining’s serious with laughter.

“What do you want to do tonight?” Shining voice was breathy as his hoof drew circles on the covers.

Pinching her lips thoughtfully, Cadence overviewed their past week’s sessions in her mind, trying to think of what was missing. The week had been an experimental one, involving a maid outfit, a wing massage and Shining’s horn getting wet.

Coming upon a decision, Cadence allowed her current expression to vanish, replacing it with cheeky eyes and a seductive smile. “Just follow my lead,” She breathed into Shining’s ear, sending a shiver down his neck.

Cadence’s lips followed the outline of Shining’s body, along the corner of his ear, down his neck, along his back, nipping, kissing, finally stopping on his cutie mark. “Roll over.” Shining obeyed eagerly, the length hidden beneath his stomach showing itself as he did so.

Taking the muscle in her magic, Cadence pulled it straight, running her tongue from the base to tip, eliciting twitches from Shining. When she reached the peak, Cadence tipped her mouth over it, encasing the tip between her cheeks.

Her soft tongue and wet lips worked along Shining’s shaft, sucking and swirling as Cadence slowly lowered herself down the length, stopping when she felt it against the back of her throat.
Up and down Cadence moved, working Shining like a pump, relishing in every twitch and groan of her lover.

All the while she kept a check on Shining’s base with her magic, searching for the muscle movement that signaled his coming release. Finding it, Cadence slowed her pace, bringing Shining as close as she could to finishing without allowing him.

Drawing herself from the shaft, Cadence played with the rock solid length as a filly would a helium balloon. Prodding and toying with it until Shining popped.

It came slow at first, the initial hint a speck of white on the tip. Shining’s shaft twitched with effort, pumping his seed through the length and out the top, turning the dribble into an intermittent fountain. The liquid spurted into the air, most of it falling back onto Shining’s shaft and chest, but some coating Cadence’s giggling grin in strings of white.

Cleaning herself as she watched the show, Cadence scooped the seed from her face with a hoof, tasting it with her tongue before lapping at it like a cat cleaning its paws. Shining filled the room with moans throughout his release, the strained expression on his face feeding Cadence’s laughter.

Shining finished and Cadence clean, the hungry alicorn moves to grooming the white belly before her, removing any sign of his explosion with her tongue. “I think that’s a new record,” She joked, squeezing the final drops from Shining’s length with her hooves.

Knowing how weary her lover had grown, Cadence pulls the covers from underneath his limp body, tucking them in together with her pink glow. Shining rolled over to face Cadence, a wide smile plastered across his face. “Thank you Cadence,” Were his final words before his eyelids drooped, his breathing slowing into that of sleep.

“Good night to you too Shining.”

★★★

“Wake up, wake up!”

Rolling away from the irritation, Shining scrunched his eyes tighter, fighting the eventual progress of waking.

“Come on lazy, wake up,” The voice requested again, this time joined by a ringing.

A warmth jerked at Shining’s eyelids, wrenching the windows of his mind open, flooding his thoughts with light. “Ow, ow, okay I’ll get up,” Shining called out as he rolled from the grip of sweaty sheets, fumbling for firm footing in his blindness.

The cool touch of china pressed against his lips, Shining felt the mug tipping, pouring boiling liquid into his open lips. Gulping down the hot pain, his eyes fluttered, managing to catch colors through the blinding wall of light. “Why the rush?” Shining managed with a burst of breath, his throat free to breathe.

“We have to get ready,” Cadence replied, words rushed. “I need to be at Canterlot Castle in half-an-hour, Celestia is waiting.”

His eyes finally adjusted, Shining noticed the orderly looking Cadence standing amongst the mess of his room. Her mane combed to fall into a point, no sign of the frizzle he remembered from last night’s blurry events. A tiara rested behind her pink horn.

The sunlight streaming into the room through half-pulled curtains captured her in a dawn-glow, highlighting her pink coat. “Why did you have to wake me up then?” Shining questioned blearily, his tongue numb with want of water.

“Because she want you to be there as well.” A white china plate held in blue followed Candace's explanation, the arrangement of fruits displayed somehow springing a leak in Shining’s desert of a mouth. “Now no more questions, if you aren’t ready in the next five minutes we’ll be late, and we don’t want to keep the Princess waiting.” With that Cadence turned, stepping carefully in the minefield of scattered clothes and abandoned armor.

“Why didn’t you wake me up earlier then?” Shining called after the pink rump as Cadence exited the room.

Cadence’s neck twisted, shooting a deadly glare over her shoulder. “I did, twice,” She complained before disappearing down the hallway, the echos of her hoofsteps sounding down the stairs.

A yawn parting his lips, Shining Armor stretched the morning aches away, his hooves carrying him subconsciously into the hallway. The stairs at his left, Shining turned right, stepping down the short hallway into the bathroom. Remnants of a previous shower still showed, splashes of water on the white tiles, fog still coating the top of the shower’s glass door.

Closing and locking the wooden door behind with his magic, Shining twisted the shower’s tap to full, wanting to heat it up before daring to step in. Why would Celestia want me to meet with her? His mind wandered as he waited, contemplating the reasons for his early waking. Maybe she’s offering me a position as the head guard? A smile spread across his face as he pictured himself in the golden captain’s armor, other guards saluting as he marched past.

Shaking the fantasy away, Shining tested the stream of water with a white hoof, the boiling heat eliciting a gasp from him. Touching the temperature down to a suitable level, he stepped into the line of fire, drenching his sweat-soaked coat and mane.

But why would Cadence be coming then? Shining questioned his previous guess, deeming his promotion an unlikelihood. It must be something for both of us then, but what? Rushing to clean himself, Shining’s mind dwelt on the mystery, sorting through an empty list of possibilities.

His cleaning routine complete, Shining closed the water off with a push on the tap, stepping from the steamy glass box. I guess I’ll have to ask Cadence about it, surely she knows. He decided as he toweled off, leaving his blue mane still damp.

Cadance waited in the lounge, one hoof tapping impatiently as the other paged through a binder. Sharing the cushion, Twilight sat beside her, the curious filly leaning over the book, reading along. The sound of Shining’s hooves descending the wooden stairs lifted both ponies’ eyes.

“Good morning Shining,” Twilight greeted him first, a wide grin pushing her eyes into a squint. “Are you ready to meet the Princess?” Shining’s brow lifted at her question, a stare and twist of his lips questioning Cadence.

“We couldn’t just leave her,” Cadence answered, folding the binder shut as she stood. “And besides, seeing the Princess up close it something few ponies get to do, I’m sure she’ll love it.” Turning to Twilight, she helped the filly to her hooves. “Are you all ready?” An excited nod answered her. “Let’s go then.”

★★★

The halls of Canterlot Castle were a new world to Shining Armor. Stepping through the marble caverns left him awestruck on the inside, maintaining his calm exterior a difficulty. Twilight on the other hand allowed her excitement to show, her jaw hung low, eyes wide as she took in the beauty the trio walk within. The white walls held tapestries at regular intervals. Woven pictures told tales of Equestria’s past, many of which Twilight recognised.

As Shining attempted to keep up with Cadence’s brisk pace, he stole glances at the guards passing by, each politely bending their necks at the sight of Cadence. He subconsciously flexed his back, imagining the armor on him, escorting his princess through the castle.

“Oof!” A door broke Shining out of his fantasy, the collision leaving a red stripe across his eye and a glow on white cheeks.

“Come on Shining!” Cadence dragged the stunned colt into motion, her strides lengthening. “We were supposed to be meeting with Celestia a few minutes ago.” Twilight scampered after the pair, still taking note of each and every detail, mentally listing the positions of a few interesting looking tapestries for later viewing.

The heavy oak doors creaked at their arrival, being pulled open by a team of four unicorn guards in a mix of blue and gold glow. “Welcome Cadence and Shining Armor,” Celestia greeted them, her voice beckoning them forth. “I see you bought Twilight also.”

The welcome drew confusion to Shining’s face, “How do you know Twilight and I’s names?” He questioned, bringing a smile to Celestia’s lips.

“I have shared many conversations with Cadence about you,” Celestia explained. “She speaks very highly of both you and your sister. It is for that reason I asked you to join me here today. I have discussed my plans with your parents and they agree it would be a brilliant opportunity for you.” A white hoof directed the trio’s gaze to their left where Shining’s parents waited with warm smiles and waving hooves.

“What exactly is your plan?” Cadence stepped forth, question lining ber face.

“Yes, it would be best if I enlighten the two of you,” Celestia agreed, turning her head to the side. “We will move to another room to discuss this this, please follow me.”

They found themselves five, trailing Celestia through a small side entrance hidden by a sky-blue curtain, the doorway behind forcing Celestia to duck. The room beyond paled in comparison to the cavern of the throne room, its ceiling height comparable to Shining’s home.

A rainbow of cushions spread in a circle waited for them. Celestia took one for herself, waiting to the others to follow her lead.

“Cadence, you’ve spent your entire life here in Canterlot.” Celestia directed her speech at the pink princess while still sharing her gaze with the remainder of the circle, making sure to include each pony. “I think it would be best for you to travel Equestria before it comes a time where you are needed to rule. Meeting with other ponies and learning to communicate with them is an important part of being a princess, hopefully this experience can teach you what you need.”

She shifted her focus to Shining, taking the colt’s eyes with a smile. “You and Cadence are very close, yes?”

Blood rushed to Shining’s face at the question. A weak smile showing his teeth, he managed a nod.

“As I thought.” Celestia nodded, her warm voice holding a sly hint. “I know you have sufficient training in hoof-to-hoof combat as well as offensive magic to escort Cadence. Though I do not imagine you will come across any difficulty while travelling, it is always better to be safe.”

“I-I don’t know if I’m good enough to protect a princess,” Shining stammered, doubt clear across his face.

Celestia waved the complaint away with a hoof. “Do not trouble yourself too much about protection,” She comforted, a cheeky smile replacing her warm one. “It is more of an excuse for you to go rather than the reason. Think of this as a vacation, time for the two of you together.”

Both Shining and Cadence responded to the suggestion with mixed expressions, a mix of embarrassment and confusion on their faces.

“What about my parents?” Shining produced a question to hide his emotion, looking to his father and mother for an escape.

“We’re fine with you going,” Shining’s father answered, pride obvious on his features. “Your mother and I think it will be a great experience, and I’m sure Cadence will love your company.”

Twilight, ignorant of the situation, couldn’t help but stare at Celestia. The princess’s radiance a magnet to her eyes. Celestia sensed the attention and reached out of hoof to ruffle Twilight’s striped mane. “I’ll be watching over both of you the whole way,” Celestia convinced, her eyes still on Twilight.

“But,” Shining managed one word of protest before he realised his cup of excuses had been drunk dry, leaving him staring at the princess awkwardly.

“You haven’t spoken so far Cadence,” Celestia switched the focus of her words, knowing how stubborn young colts could be. “Why don’t you tell Shining what you think about this opportunity?”

“I,” Cadence stoppped herself, catching Shining’s eye, gauging his true feelings on the situation. Noting the smile in his eyes she continues. “I think it sounds like an amazing experience, and I know Shining thinks so too. I just have two questions, when do we leave and how long will we be gone for?”

Looking up from the playful filly at her hoof, Celestia smiled, relieved she managed to convince the adolescent pair. “I planned for you to leave before noon today, that is why I asked you here so early,” She explained, much to the shock of Cadence and Shining.

Noting their gaping jaws, Celestia clarified her plans. “Everything is prepared for you, an itinerary, enough bits to last you the journey, and I have notified officials around Equestria to prepare hospitality for your coming. As for the length of your journey, I hope for you to be back before your wedding, which is in five years time.”

Shining’s face faded a shade paler than it previously was, somehow whiter than white. Cadence cough, choking on the revelation. “Wedding?” Cadence breathed, her mind hoping she had heard wrong, her heart wishing for it to be true. “You mean between Shining and I?”

“Mmmm,” Celestia murmured her assent, her brow raising in mock-question. “You two aren’t against that I hope, maybe I assumed too much.” She feigned ignorance to Shining and Cadence's shared look, instead spending her attention petting Twilight. “Perhaps I could make Twilight here the next princess of Equestria instead,” Celestia joked, much to the horror of the stressed couple.

“No, no, that’s quite alright,” Shining quickly blurted, hoping to save his sister from this apparently crazy princess’s schemes. “We’d love to get married.”

“We would?” Cadence questioned, wondering if she had missed a previous conversation.

“Well maybe not right now,” Gritting his teeth, Shining attempted to clean up his accidental mess, each uncomfortable word spreading Celestia’s smile further. “But hey, five years is a long time. I’m sure we’ll be ready then.”

“Well I’m glad that’s all settled,” Celestia clapped her hooves together, warding off any further argument. “Do you wish to have a meal before you depart?”

Shining and Cadence shared a silent conversation, noting small movements of lips, creases around each others eyes. “No,” They answered simultaneously, both knowing the the other shared their uneasy stomach.

“Perfect,” Celestia said. A pop of magic in the centre of the circle producing a thick stack of paper, the first page stuffed with black ink. “This is your itinerary, it contains details on where you will be going, where to stay, some optional side ventures, anything you could want to know.” She dumped the pile before Shining and Cadence, a silver ring binding its corner stopping the pages from fluttering.

“Is this all?” Cadence questioned sarcastically, the roll of her eyes accentuating her intent. “It seems a little, light for travelling.”

“No of not,” Celestia replied with complete sincerity. The sarcasm apparently lost or more likely ignored, by her. “Beyond the white door behind me a pair of saddlebags as well as a hefty bag of gold waits. Now off you go.” She shooed the pair with her hooves, the barest hint of impatience in her voice.

Knowing they’d gone too far to back out now, Cadence looped the binder ring over the tip of a pink wing before stepping for the white-stained door. Shining nuzzled a brief goodbye to his sister and accepted a hug from each of his parents before following.

The click her ear was listening for finally happening, Celestia turned her attention back to the remaining ponies. “Now they’re gone I want to ask one more thing of you two.” She leant forward as she spoke, her voice low. “I hear Twilight is studying magic.”

★★★

“The Princess sure is forward,” Shining commented as Cadence closed the door behind them, his unease fading as his distance from Celestia grew.

“I know it was a little, unexpected,” Cadence agreed in partial, not wanting to disrespect the elder alicorn. “But isn’t it something both of us want?”

The question set the gears of Shining’s mind in motion, pulling a memory of the previous night to the forefront. “I guess we’ve talked about it once or twice,” He said with a nod as distracted as his words, his mind still trawling through the recollection. Cadence’s sleepy smile as she kissed him to sleep a pleasant thought. “It’s just having the wish made so real is a little bit of a shock.”

“It is,” Cadence concurred, her eyes finding the promised goods waiting atop a stone bench carved into the white marble. “But I really lo-like you Shining.” Cadence’s slip up was lost on Shining, his mind still living a memory. “I’m sure it will be less of a shock in five years.”

The saddle bags appeared personally made, each bearing symbols akin to the couple’s cutie-mark, the fabric matching its color with their manes. Cadence shrugged on her own soft yellow bag with ease before slipping the itinerary inside. Turning, she found Shining still in a daze.

“Ow, what was that for?” Shining complained, rubbing his hurt snout, a faint hoofprint denting his white coat.

Rolling her eyes, Cadence responded to his question by tossing the dark blue pair of saddlebags at his head, forcing him to duck.

“Hey!” Shining’s attempt to dodge the clump of fabric allowed it to catch his horn, dragging the struggling unicorn to the ground. “What did I do wrong?”

“I guess getting lost in your thoughts runs in the family then?” Her comment met with confusion, Cadence elaborated, unable to hold back her smile. “Twilight does the same thing. She manages to be a lot cuter however.”

“Are you saying I’m not cute?” Shining struck a pose, twisting his face in his attempt at an enticing look.

The resulting mess only managed to evoke a breath of laughter from Cadence before she fixed the expression with a kiss. “Not when you do that,” She said, picking the mess of cloth from the floor in a blue glow, hanging across Shining’s withers. “Now I think we should stop messing around and get out of here.”

Another door, elm framed with gold, waited for them at the opposite end of the room. Taking the purse of coins as she past the bench, Cadence led Shining Armor, pushing the door open with her hoof.

Beyond lay the palace gardens, a airy tunnel of red rose bushes guiding them onto cobble.

Cadence halted, the sudden stop causing Shining to bump against her. Ignoring the contact, Cadence pulled open one of her bags, trading a sack of coins for a stack of paper. “Your first step,” She read aloud. “Is to find a way out of the castles maze. I hope you enjoy it.”

“This maze isn’t big, right?” Shining asked, a hint of worry in his voice.

“No, we’re actually quite close to the exit. Just follow me.” Still holding the collection of paper in her magic, Cadence strode away, Shining forced to leap a few steps to catch. Two right turns followed by a left allowed the couple freedom, the golden gates of the palace exit in sight.

“So where are we off to first?” Taking advantage of their stop, Shining leant close to Cadence, trying to read the itinerary

“It looks like….” Cadence trailed off, flipping a few pages of Celestia’s teasing before she found her goal. “Ponyville is our first destination. Apparently it’s a town whose residents are very down to earth, so it should be easy to mix and mingle. At least that’s what’s written.”

“So are we taking a train or chariot?” Shining questioned, eager to overcome the first nervous steps of their adventure.

Examining the page closely, Cadence found nothing. A few page flips forward followed by twice as many backwards finally revealed the information. “It seems we are to walk, apparently long walks together are a great bonding experience.”

While Cadence remained indifferent, Shining released an irritated breath. “More like a cheap experience.”

A pink hoof on his neck helped calm Shining’s frustration. “I’m sure it’ll be fine,” Cadence comforted, attempting to spread her smile. “We’ll get there soon enough.”

Unable to resist the contagious expression, Shining allowed himself to be swayed. “I guess so. Five years is a long time after all.”

Author's Note

If there are any issues with the tenses please tell me. I am slowly moving my style from present tense to past tense to allows myself more freedom when writing great periods of time into a few words.

A Taste of Apples

“We were supposed to reach Ponyville before the night falls, right?” Shining eyed the dimming sky with question, hoping his fear of sleeping outside would soon be banished by a town rising over the horizon.

“Let me look,” Cadence responded, pulling their source of information from her yellow saddlebags. “It seems to give us a few days to get to Ponyville on foot, there’s even a temporary structure spell for when we have to sleep outside.”

“She truly planned for everything, didn’t she?”

Ignoring Shining’s sarcastic comment, Cadence examined the surrounding scenery for a place to sleep. A wide expanse of wild grass surrounded the dirt trail on either side. A light forest on their right, while on the left the plains stretched into hills until the horizon.

“Why don’t we look for a place to sleep?” Cadence suggested, already diverting into the knee high grass, heading for the cover of trees.

One look at the ever fading sun decided for Shining, quickly following behind. Pulling on his limited knowledge of the world outside Canterlot’s walls, he scanned the ground beneath, searching for burnable wood. The light forest provided an ample windbreak, the grass on its floor stunted in growth by the trees above.

“Now let me try this spell.” Concentrating her spark, Cadence projected a light blue construct from her horn. The transparent tepee tent formed fell to the ground upon the spell’s completion, the entrance forcing Cadence to duck as she entered.

“It’s a little small don’t you think?” Shining commented having caught up with Cadence, a bundle of sticks held in his magic.

A playful expression danced across Cadence’s face, a sultry smile spreading her lips. “That just means we have to cuddle extra close tonight.”

Sensing the mood, Shining mirrored Cadence’s face with much less success. “I think there’ll be a bit more than just cuddling.” On instinct, he leaned into her, their lips sharing a kiss.

Cadence pulled away, repressing her arousal. “We really should ready the campsite first though.”

Agreeing, Shining allowed a brief nod before dumping the sticks onto the grass. He arranged the sticks just like he remembered his father doing, a pyramid with each dry branch supporting its comrades. Memories of their camping trip in the park blossomed in his mind momentarily.

It had been some time ago, before Twilight had been born. Shining was still a young colt, eager to spend time with his father. It had been a night of campfire stories, jokes, and roasting all kinds of food. The recollection brought a warmth to Shining’s heart and a small smile to his lips.

The wood caught aflame easily, a spark of Shining’s magic seeing to that. Much to his disappointment and Cadence’s amusement the sticks burnt a little too easily, crumbling to cinders within minutes.

“Why don’t we just use a spell instead?” Cadence suggested, a magical mattress already spread inside the tent. “There seems to be magic in here for everything.”

“I guess, but at least let me cast it. I don’t want to be completely useless.” The prospect of Shining being useless lifted the corners of Cadence’s mouth. She held the itinerary before him, surrounded in blue, allowing him to grasp it in his hooves.

“There,” Shining announced, an ethereal flame now burning over the pile of ashes. “Now lets have something to eat, I’m starving.” His stomach rumbled to punctuate the point.

Cadence shrugged her saddlebags from her withers, allowing the lightly packed fabric to fall to the grass. “Now do you want, nuts or fruit?” The pair had stopped by a cafe before they left, Shining’s stomach insisted. The interruption was fortunate however, it allowed them to purchase some much needed supplies of food.

“We did get peanuts right?” Saliva pooled in Shining’s mouth at the thought of the food, a regular craving that was impossible to fulfil at home with his mother’s allergy.

“Mmmmhmm,” A paper bag rustled in time with the murmur of assent. Cadence tossed the packaged nuts towards drooling Shining. “Make sure you save some for me, last time you conveniently forgot I was there.”

Ignoring the sounds of Shining’s frantic munching, Cadence tested the bed, pressing her hoof against the clear blue mattress. To her surprise it gave way easily, the texture similar to that of cotton.

She allowed herself to fall forward, the springy glow catching her with ease. A yawn pushed between her lips as she rolled over, allowing her tired muscles to relax. The ethereal roof allowed her view of the sky above, orange gold meeting deep blue as the sun set.

“Do you still want some?”

Shining’s voice brought a touch of annoyance to Cadence, the question pulling her from the mattress’s relaxing grasp, forcing her to sit. “If there’s still any left,” She teased, another yawn distorting her words.

“Catch.” Shining tossed the paper bag toward the tent, his poor aim corrected by Cadence’s magic, guiding the nuts towards her. Its contents surprised her, Shining had managed to restrain himself this time, leaving almost two-thirds.

“Thank you for thinking this time.” A nut hovered from the bag surrounded in light-blue, roasted and speckled with salt, to splinter between Cadence’s jaws with a crunch, her thirst highlighted by the dry food.

Shining’s lips parted in a guilty smile, legs carrying him closer to the tent. “I was extra careful after last time, I don’t know what happened. One minute there was plenty of ice cream left and then a mouthful later it was all gone.”

Cadence rolled her eyes in memory, Shining’s appetite more entertaining than irritating. “Don’t worry about it,” She said, another peanut crunching in her mouth. “I’m only teasing when I mention it. You’re a growing colt, you need a lot of food.”

At the mention of food Shining’s stomach rumbled, spilling a laugh from Cadence. “See.” She poked at his belly, evoking another sound. “I bought something else just incase you got this hungry.”

Cadence’s saddlebags near the ghostly fire wiggled with blue, another paper package floating from inside. “Now don’t eat all of this.” With a crinkle she peeled the packaging from the rectangular surprise, revealing brown underneath.

“Is that chocolate?” Shining’s eyes popped from their sockets at the sight of the sugary treat, another pool of saliva forming in his mouth.

“Yes.” Cadence nodded as she snapped a sizable chunk from the bar, levitating it before Shining’s waiting mouth. “But this is all you’re having tonight, your parents don’t allow you to have much this for a reason.”

“That was one time when I was a colt.” Protests spewed from Shining’s mouth as he recalled the brown torrent that had once done the same. He had stumbled into his mother’s storeroom when he was younger, a cupboard designated for chocolate catching his eye.

His first taste of the delectable treat was the trigger his stomach needed, sending him into an eating frenzy. His father had found him unconscious, lying in a pool of chocolaty vomit. The food storeroom had remained locked from that day forth, and Shining’s craving for chocolate barely sated by the portions his parents allowed him as a treats.

“You’re still a colt now,” Cadence insisted, allowing Shining to take the chunk in his own blue glow. “And I couldn’t have you gorging yourself to death on the first day of our journey, I need your protection.”

Looking over the lump of brown hovering before his mouth, Shining found a cheeky smile plastered across Cadence’s face, her eyes glinting in the fake firelight. “Can we wait till I’ve finished this.” Knowing her want, Shining attempted a nervous smile, hoping her convince Cadence.

“I see where your true love lies,” Cadence replied, half-laughing. “Finish your food, I’ll relax a little.” Her back begging to be stretched, Cadence fulfilled its request, covering the small mattress with her body.

A response muffled by Shining’s stuffed mouth was barely heard by Cadence, her tired mind already drifting. The ethereal bedding somehow soothed her aches, cradling her in comfort.

“Can you move over a little?” Shining’s voice passed right through Cadence’s blank mind, relaxation consuming her thoughts. A push of his hoof against her side brought her back, travel pains flooding back into her body as Cadence propped herself up.

“Sorry, this mattress is just so comfortable,” Cadence apologised, glad to find Shining’s face holding a forgiving smile. “Do you wish to join me?” The spark jumped back into her eyes, her lips tempting Shining to kiss them.

Taking the bait, Shining leant forward, placing his hooves on either side of Cadence, bringing their snouts together. The magic bed absorbed the extra weight with ease, barely giving an inch. Their lips locked, mouths combining to form a red, wet cavern for their tongues to dance inside.

Cadence moaned as they played, anticipation for the coming events building inside her stomach. She allowed Shining to press her backwards, their bodies close against each other as they shared the other’s breath, their chests rising and falling in unison.

Lips smacked softly as Shining pulled away, panting. “Don’t you think this tent is a little small? There’s barely enough space for us to lie together.” To demonstrate the lack of space, Shining made to stand, expecting his head to collide against the ghostly roof. To his surprise he stood freely, the tent growing on demand.

“Looks like we have all the room we could ask for.” Cadence rolled onto her stomach, extending a hoof towards the tent’s rear wall, watching it expand. The pair pushed against the other sides, giving them enough room to fit ten ponies.

The space sized to their liking, the pair returned to the mattress, the blue rectangle still small. “Maybe we can stretch this too?” Shining suggested, pulling at one of the corners to confirm his suspicions. The bedding showing similar properties to the tent, the pair returned to work, covering the exposed grass underneath the ethereal teepee with magical mattress.

The stage set, Cadence captured Shining’s eyes with a seductive look, reminding his body of its desires. Her teeth captured a pink lip as she watched Shining cross the makeshift room, his patchy white and pink length noticeable between his legs.

Their lips met again, Shining’s kiss softer this time, warming Cadence for what was to come. Eagerness dripping down her thigh, Cadence turned, displaying her rear to Shining. She lifted her pink and yellow tail, revealing her glistening pink lips.

Wanting to take things slowly, Shining danced around Cadence’s winking prize with kisses, much to her irritation. Moaning softly, Cadence pressed her hips towards him, body begging to be relieved.

Shining accepted his partners need, mounting her gently, making sure not to lean too much of his weight against her. Their organs met as he shuffled forward, the tip of his member slipping against her wet lips. Adjusting his aim, Shining thrusted forward, feeling Cadence moan beneath him.

Pushing further inside, Shining allowed her to loosen around him before moving onward, careful not to cause pain. The touch of his hips against her rear sent a shiver through Cadence’s body, the feeling of being filled completely overloading her mind with pleasure. Shining paused fully inside, the feeling of his lover squeezing against his shaft filling his crotch with tingling.

“Are you comfortable my princess?” Shining’s question brought a small smile to Cadence’s lips, his pet names still something of a joke to her.

“Mmmm,” She moaned in response, tightening her inner muscles against his length, begging for Shining’s thrusts.

Breathing in deep, Shining retreated, sliding from Cadence’s slick entrance till only his tip rested inside, holding her open.

In and out Shining moved, each thrust building the heat inside his groin, the feeling of release growing. Knowing Cadence’s capacity for lust was larger than his own, Shining restrained the muscles between his hips, holding his pleasure at bay.

Cadence’s moans built in pitch and pace, the wordless murmuring flowing from her lips fading into soft groans at each of Shining’s movements. The repetitive filling and emptying of her body driving her over the edge, the knowledge that her greatest love was enjoying the moment as much as she aiding in her arousal.

Feeling the pressure inside reaching its peak, Cadence sucked a breath between her teeth, stopping her instinctual moans for a moment. “I’m getting close Shining,” She whispered the words chased from her mouth by a high-pitched moan.

At the warning Shining relaxed the muscles in his groin, allowing his body to take it’s natural path, his shaft clenching for release. “Are you sure it’s okay for me to finish inside?” Over that last few months Cadence had assured him that alicorns were unable to be impregnated by regular ponies. The prospect of accidental children still put Shining on edge.

“Mmmmhmmm!” Cadence cried in confirmation and pleasure, her body reaching its limit, driving her inner muscles into a spasm.

The rapid twitching around his length stimulated Shining’s member into releasing, his muscles propelling white seed down his shaft, filling Cadence with the warm liquid. The pulsing continued for some time, Shining’s load leaking down her legs as it overflowed.

Pulling himself from Cadence, Shining allowed his body to collapse onto the ethereal mattress below, post coital tiredness overcoming his muscles, willing him to sleep.

Cadence’s soft lips against his as she lowered herself beside him kept his conscious active. “There’s something magical about being with you out under the stars, it almost feels as if this is the way it’s supposed to be.” She rolled onto her back, taking in the twilight above, the first stars peeking out from the blanket of black.

“Mmmm,” Shining murmured, shifting his body to share the view. The stars had never been much of an interest to him, simply pretty lights, nothing special. But the affinity his sister and Cadence seemed to feel towards them helped sway his opinion of them. The specks of white and red and blue evoking memories of his most treasured ponies.

Watching the stars slowly wink into view weighed on Shining’s eyelids, the fight to keep them open growing harder and harder. “Cadence?” Unable to keep himself awake alone, Shining turned onto his side, an already sleeping Cadence filling his view.

The beauty of his slumbering princess brought a smile to Shining’s lips. Gently wedging his hooves underneath Cadence, he rolled her into a more comfortable sleeping position, on her belly with pink legs tucked underneath.

Adopting the same position himself, Shining allowed his eyelids to droop once more, the darkness of sleep flooding his consciousness.

★★★

“Come one Shining, wake up.”

Shining smiled at the sound of Cadence’s voice, another morning opening his eyes to her beautiful face, albeit somewhat ruined by her glare. The morning sun shocked his eyes at first, not accustomed to such a bright light so early in the day.

“We’re beside the road aren’t we,” Shining said, his pupils retreating behind their shields of white skin. “That wasn’t all just a terrible dream.”

A laugh bubbled from Cadence’s lips at the notion, the crisp morning air livening her. “No it wasn’t, now get up. It’d be nice to reach Ponyville by tonight.”

Packing up their small camp proved simple, the ghostly tent, fire and mattress dissipating on will, leaving only a few scattered nuts as a sign of their stay. The easy dirt road continued down the side of Mount Canterlot, zig-zagging across its face.

At the mountain’s base the path flattened out into plains of green grass stretching until the horizon, small bunches of trees dotting the landscape. The small speck of buildings ahead slowly grew as the day wore on, as if it was coming out to meet them.

Some time before noon Shining’s stomach called for rest, their remaining food disappearing down his gullet, much to Cadence’s entertainment.

A few animals accompanied them along the flat walk, a sizable flock of sparrows casting a shadow, a lonely bunny playing in the nearby grass, another pony heading the other way, his creaking cart laden with apples red and gold.

“Finally.” A groan escaped Shining’s lips as his hooves struck cobbled stone, the main roadway of Ponyville greeting the pair. “Now let’s get something to eat, I’m starving.” Scanning the nearby buildings for an eatery, a brightly colored dessert caught Shining’s eye.

Noticing the building also, Cadence rolled her eyes. “As long as you don’t eat too much Shining, and no chocolate.” Ignoring his groans she continued toward the store, her body craving someplace to rest and something to eat as well.

Pushing open the door revealed a similarly colorful interior, a lanky yellow stallion in rollerskates sailing between the tables, serving treats to waiting customers. The plastic tray holding sweets now empty, he greeted Shining and Cadence. “Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, would the two of you want anything to eat?” His yellow hoof directed their eyes toward the display of treats.

Sizing up the array of delicious looking food, Shining’s eyes couldn’t decide which to choose. His gaze settled on one colorful sweet before been drawn to another, the cycle continuing infinitely. “How many can I have?”

“Just one,” Cadence answered, her voice stern. “I’ll have the pink iced cupcake please.” The young stallion spun on his skates at her request, his bouncy orange mane dancing freely as he stopped behind the counter.

Cadence’s cake atop his tray, the serving pony looked to Shining. “And what would you like sir?”

Looking away from the chocolate section, Shining’s eyes rested on a banoffee pie, hoping Cadence would allow the barest hint of chocolate sprinkles covering the cream. “Can I have that caramel pie with cream on top?”

“The banoffee pie?” The stallion questioned, a yellow hoof pointing out the aforementioned treat. On Shining’s nod he placed the treat on his tray alongside Cadence’s. “Now would you like this to go or eat here?”

“To go please.” Cadence spoke before Shining’s lips could even form a word, wanting to put as much distance between her and the tempting food as soon as possible.

Brown paper bags crinkled as they were stuffed full and folded shut, the yellow stallion handing them to Cadence. “Have a good evening.” The farewell saw them out, the mention of time drawing Cadence’s eyes to the sky. Overhead the first hints of orange were staining the blue sky, the air growing noticeably colder.

“Why didn’t we just stay inside?”

Stuffing the treats inside her saddlebags, Cadence’s legs carried her down the the cobbled street, leaving Shining to follow. “We still have someway to travel before we reach the Sweet Apple Acres.” Her words floated behind her, passing Shining’s ears as he chased her tail.

“Uh, why are we going there?” Straining his mind, Shining searched his memories for any mention of the place, his confusion growing as he found none. “I thought we were going to stay at an inn?”

A yellow pocket opened as its twin flaps shut, a thick stack of paper surrounded in pink glow appearing from within. “Celestia has organised for us to stay with a local family during our time in Ponyville. It says here they are an old family, friends of Celestia.” Turning to Shining, Cadence noted his slumped shoulders. “Cheer up,” She smiled. “I’m sure it’ll be fun.”

Finding their way proved more difficult than Cadence had predicted. The seemingly random placement of houses made the streets a maze, impossible to navigate. Finding themselves in the town square for the fourth time, Cadence peered at the directions written in their itinerary, as if reading the for the hundredth time would reveal something new.

“Do the two of yah need any help?” A twang called at them across the emptying marketplace, ponies cleaning their stall in preparation to head home. “I’ve seen yah come back around here three times, are yah lost?” The stallion questioning them tipped his brown leather seston as he approached, a friendly smile spreading his lips.

“I guess we are,” Cadence answered, her face covered in apology. “I wouldn’t want to trouble you too much, but if you could direct us to Sweet Apple Acres it would be a great help.”

“Why shoot,” The stallions smile widened across his orange muzzle, head shaking with a chuckle. “Ya’ll two must be the two that are supposed to be staying with us this week.”

He extended a hoof towards Shining, near wrenching the unicorn’s leg off with a shake before tipping his head at Cadence. “I’m Ginger Gold, but most folks round here just call me Goldy. You must be Princess Cadence,” He said, eyes locked with Shining. “And Shining Armour,” Turning his gaze to Cadence.

The pair shared a look and a blush, Cadence’s mouth opening to correct.

“Ah know, ah know, it was just a joke.” Another chuckled rumbles from Ginger’s chest, evoking nervous laughter from Shining and Cadence. “Now we’d better be heading off, would pay to get home before dark.”

Cadence and Shining paused momentarily as Ginger heaved a wooden cart over his apple shaped cutie-mark, onto his shoulders. Worn engravings of apples decorated each side, the cart empty but for a few pieces of wood used to assemble a stall. The cart’s heavy burden on Ginger slowed the trio’s pace as they followed a stony road south, Ponyville’s buildings thinning as they distanced themselves from the town centre.

Taking another peek at the fading light overhead, Cadence smiled at the beautiful fight between black and orange, the moon wrestling the sun below the horizon.

“So the two of yah never been to Ponyville before?” Ginger’s voice broke the monotonous creak and squeak of wood, briefly surprising Cadence.

“It’s actually the first place I’ve been outside of Canterlot,” Shining answered, his eyes watching the scenery shift from buildings to orchards.

Cadence nodded in agreement, “Same for me as well.”

Mention of a new experience rekindled the joy in Ginger’s face, his now familiar laugh greeting their ears. “Well then then ya’ll are going to have a real sweet time, Ponyville’s full of the nicest ponies around. Are yah here for anything special?”

Scanning her memory of the itinerary, Cadence failed to recall any specific details of what was required of them during their stay. The only words that came to mind were have fun. “I believe we’re here just to experience the town and its ponies.”

Ginger didn’t respond instantly, allowing a lull of silence to fall over the group, his lips moving thoughtfully, the hint of planning in his eyes.

The break in conversation left Cadence wondering which word was the wrong one, Shining’s mind occupied with the thought of his pie, still waiting for him in those yellow saddlebags.

“Ah think meeting the Apple family would be the best way to start.” Ginger’s words breaking the quiet brought relief to Cadence, her tight stomach uncoiling.

The red barnhouse creeping over the horizon quickened Ginger’s pace, transitioning from a pondering walk to a brisk one, the cart bouncing softly on the dirt under hoof. “There she is,” He announced, pride obvious in his tone. “Home. It was built by my grandfather when Ponyville was first founded.”

The first stars were waking as Ginger directed Cadence and Shining inside, staying in the cold for a few more moments to relieve his burden. The first thing to greet them was the heat, a stone fireplace across the room its source. The cosy hug a stark contrast to the nipping chill outside.

“Pa, Pa, ya’ll never guess what I did today.” A filly followed the cherry twang through the house, confusion lining her face as her eyes met Shining and Cadence. “Who are ya’ll?” Her coat was similar to Ginger’s, only a few shade lighter. The freckles blooming of her cheeks twisted as she struggled to put names to the faces before her.

“They’re the ponies who’ll be staying with us for the next few days Applejack,” The voice came from another earth pony, her chestnut mane falling freely over a white coat, green eyes greeting them warmly. “Welcome. I am Leafy and I assume you two are Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. Would you like something to eat?”

“Ah sure would dear.” The door clicked shut behind Cadence and Shining, Ginger stepping past them, touching his lips against Leafy’s cheek.

“Pa!” A blur of orange scampered between Cadence’s legs, leaping into Ginger’s waiting arms. “Ya’ll never guess what ah did today.”

Ginger’s face creased briefly in mock confusion. “Ate a whole cart of apples?” His guess evoked a small giggle from Cadence, the interaction between father and daughter warming her heart.

“Nah silly,” Applejack’s face scrunched up for a moment as she considered the absurdity of her father’s suggestion before springing back to a bright smile. “I bucked a whole tree all by myself.”

“Aw, ain’t yah just the best filly a father could want.” Ginger nuzzled Applejack, snout against snout. Taking his hat he rested it atop her blonde mane, bringing a spark of excitement to the filly's eyes. “Yah look just like a little apple bucker, soon ya’ll be out there bucking with your brother.”

“Speaking of Big Mac, where is he Applejack?” The moment between Ginger and Applejack past, Leafy directed the conversation, he mind set on gathering everyone for dinner.

The orange filly lifted her hoof, directing the group’s combined gaze towards the stairs. “He’s up in his room, doing something weird again. He won’t let me in.” Applejack’s over exaggerated frown displayed her annoyance.

“Ah’ll go get him,” Leaving his seston on Applejack’s head, Ginger stood out of her grasp, crossing the room and ascending the stairs with steady a clip-clop of hooves.

“Why don’t you have a seat at the table.” Taking their eyes of the stairwell, Leafy directed Shining and Cadence toward an oak table resting in the room’s centre. Thin, cream-colored padding surrounded it, covering the bare planks of wood that made up the floor. The light cushioning, while not uncomfortable, was a shock compared to the lavish pillows Cadence and Shining were accustomed to.

“So what’s for dinner?” Shining called after Leafy as she disappears through a doorway, his stomach growling for food.

“Why apples of course!” The response surprised both Cadence and Shining, not coming from Leafy’s direction as expected, but instead from behind. Straining his neck and body to peek at the voice’s source, Shining found Applejack, her hooves busy fiddling with the leather heat atop her head.

Cadence turned her whole body to view the filly, the adorable picture pulling at her cheeks. “And just what kind of apples will we be having?” Her baby like voice brought annoyance to Applejack’s features.

“Ah’m not a little filly yah know.” Sitting up straight, Applejack attempted to harden her features, hoping to age herself instantly. The seston too large for her head ruined the illusion, slipping over her eyes and evoking laughter from both Shining and Cadence.

“I’m sure you’re very mature for your age,” Cadence comforted, lifting the hat from Applejacks head. A plate clinked on the table behind them as she spoke, turning all three ponies’ heads.

“She truly is, I’m so proud of both of our children.” Her jaw free of the plate’s burden, Leafy skirted the table edge to correct lopsided hat, allowing it to hang down over Applejack’s neck. “Though they can be a handful sometimes, right Applejack?” The filly twisted her mouth, memories of her mishaps clear in her eyes.

Cadence noded at the statement, thoughts of Twilight’s almost supernatural obsession with books coming to memory. “I know how you feel, there’s a filly around the same age back in Canterlot that I simply love to take care of, even if she does have her troubles.” She turned to Shining to share the memories of Twilight, only to find his back to the conversation, his eyes glued to the steaming pot of stewed apples resting on the wooden table.

Leafy’s lips formed an O in surprise before returning to a warm smile. “The two of you have a filly of you own? You seem so young.” Red flashed on Cadences cheeks as her mouth scrambled to respond, the embarrassment numbing her tongue beyond speaking.

“”No, she’s not our daughter.” Shining stepped in to save Cadence from her moment of muteness, ignoring his stomach’s rumbling cries to eat. “She’s actually my little sister, we just babysit her sometimes when my parents are out, which is quite a lot.”

A blush akin to Cadence’s leapt to Leafy’s cheeks as she realised her mistake. “Sorry about that,” She apologised. “I jump to conclusions too quickly.” Her hooves played with Applejack’s mane without thought, repeating a path they had taken through the blonde mane thousands of times before, the familiar movement calming.

“It’s quite alright.” Her tongue untangled enough to speak, Cadence apologised herself. “I should have made it clearer.” The conversation reaching its end,Cadence simply stared at Leafy, the awkwardness of her accident leaving her mind blank.

The sound of hooves against the wooden stairs caused Leafy to jump, her legs carrying her back towards the kitchen. “I really should bring out the rest of the food.”

The food came in swiftly, plates of apple-based foods covering the table in a colorful mix of sights and smells. Pastries and pies, a bowl of fresh gold and red apples, stewed apples spiced with cinnamon. Each new dish pulling Shining’s nose its way, his mind unable to hold back the torrent of saliva pooling in his mouth.

Everyone else sitting around the table, Leafy allowed herself to rest, her rump covering an empty space opposite Shining and Cadence, next to Applejack. “So you two sorted everything out?” Leafy’s question caused Cadence’s mind to jump into action, searching for a problem between Shining and her before realising the query was directed at Ginger.

“It was nothing really,” Ginger answered with a smile, his eyes trying to find Big Mac’s, the young stallion shrinking away from his gaze. “Just stallion stuff, right Mac?”

“Eyup.” Mac’s single word seemed to be enough for Ginger, the golden stallion allowing his eyes to roam the table.

“Why don’t we get started?” The second the suggestion left Leafy’s lips Shining dove forward, his hooves flinging pastries and pies towards his plate, topping the stack off with a helping of stewed apples. Ignorant of the other ponies stares, Shining shoveled the food into his waiting mouth, the over exaggerated slurping and chewing a discomfort to the other’s ears.

Smiling at the crazed stallion, Cadence waved a hoof in apology. “Sorry about him, he really likes his food, and we haven’t eaten since lunch.” Leafy met her apologetic smile with a knowing one, her eyes twinkling in memory as the ponies around her helped themselves to apples.

“He reminds me of Ginger at that age, such an enthusiastic stallion with an appetite to match.” A sigh escaped Leafy’s lips, her mind briefly distant from the present as she relived cherished moments.

“Ah sure was,” Ginger affirmed, his twang drawing all eyes to him. “But you weren’t so bad yaself dear, the sweetest filly I had ever seen that day in the market. Granny Smith got awful mad at me because I couldn’t keep mah eyes off yah.”

His reminiscing ignited Cadence’s curiosity, her mind working as she chewed applepie, the sweetened mix of apples and pastry a joy to her tastebuds. “How exactly did the two of you meet?”

The question pulled Leafy’s green eyes in line with Ginger’s blue pair, the couple sharing an amused look. “There were two first meetings, when I first met Ginger, and as he tells it, when his eyes first met me.”

“Oh Leafy you don’t know the half of it.” Ginger’s head shook with his chuckles, the soft sounds somehow filling the room. His eyes stared into his plate, the china half-covered in stewed apples, half reflecting a blur of his face. “When ah first saw her it was like magic, ah thought ah was half unicorn for a second the buzz that went through me.”

Another chuckle rolled from Ginger’s lips as he turns to his left, capturing Leafy in his gaze. “She looked just as beautiful that day as she does now, standing beside ‘er mother at their flower stall. Ah was with Granny as usual, too young to buck apples, but old enough to sell em.” His eyes continued to hold Leafy’s as the pair shared a smile, shared memories long lost in the past.

“Now tell them how we actually met.” Leafy’s smile displayed her amusement, her eyes urging him to continue.

“Now that was another day entirely.” Blue eyes drifted from Leafy’s face towards the wall behind her, Ginger’s mind projecting the memory on the plain wood. “It was some time before ah managed to work up the courage to speak to Leafy, took me a few weeks to figure out how to win her heart.” His voice faded into silence, mind lost in the past.

Rolling her eyes, Leafy continueed where he left off, sharing the same dreamy expression plastered across Ginger’s face. “This golden colt came up to my mother’s flower stall, wanting to buy roses, but the only red flower he could afford was a lily. The shock my mother got when he handed it back across the counter, naming me the most beautiful filly he had ever seen.”

Leafy shook the memory from her mind, returning her eyes back to Shining and Cadence. “I felt a buzz as he handed the flower to me, something I thought of as strange when it happened. I discovered a few hours later however I had finally discovered my cutie-mark, a little red lily to match my white coat.”

“So that was it?” Cadence questioned, her watery eyes curious as to the end of the seemingly perfect love story.

“Not quite, I still had no idea who this golden stallion was, he never even told me his name.” Her focus danced around the room, a white hoof playing with a half eaten pastry on her plate. “He came back however, many, many times, buying the single bit lilies as an excuse to talk. Soon enough he asked me to his family reunion, something fun to do he said.”

“And she loved it,” Ginger cut in, a joking smile spreading his lips.

Bopping her husband on the nose, Leafy shook her head, soft brown mane swaying around her neck. “It was actually a disaster, as I have found all the reunions are, but I still had fun with Ginger, we shared our first kiss in the barn that day.”

“It sure was a great time.” Ginger’s words faded away as he leant his lips into Leafy’s, the pair sharing a kiss and a memory, much to Mac’s discomfort. The young stallion bumped his legs against the table’s edge as he rushed to leave, mumbling excuses under his breath.

The startled looks on Shining and Cadence’s faces asked for an answer, the silent question evoking a slow breath from Ginger’s lungs. “Don’t mind him, he’s just got some troubles bothering him. Nothing that won’t pass. Why don’t we finish our meal?” Ginger’s warm smile helped ease the silence out of the room, Shining’s sloppy chewing replacing it.

The dinner talk slowed as each ponies belly filled, Shining almost drifting off on his plate multiple times, an amusement to the rest of the table as he wiped apples from his cheek. Weariness dragged on each ponies’ eyelids as soft banter floated around the table, a battle Ginger called as a loss when Applejack’s fell asleep against Leafy.

“It would be best if we all got some rest, I’m sure you two have a lot planned for tomorrow.” The statement from Leafy brought a thoughtful smile to Cadence’s lips as she realised how wrong it was.

“Actually we don’t have anything planned,” Cadence responded sheepishly, her eyes gazing over Leafy’s shoulder, watching Ginger carefully carry Applejack up the stairs. “Do you have any suggestions?”

A white face twisted as Leafy choked back a yawn, the burden of sleep forcing her eyes to squint. “Why don’t we talk about it over breakfast?” She stood, ready to stumble off to bed.

“Wait, where are we supposed to sleep?” Cadence’s query shocked Leafy’s eyes open.

“I’m so sorry, I completely forgot to tell you. We’ve made room for the two of you in the barn. I hope you don’t mind, it’s all we have.” Leafy’s apologetic grin tugged at Cadence’s heart, forgetful mistakes an experience she knew well.

“Did you just say barn?” In his sleepy haze Shining questioned Leafy’s words, wondering if he was already dreaming.

“Trust me, it’s not as bad as it sounds, the hay is quite soft and makes for comfortable sleeping.” Leafy’s convincing did little to sway Shining’s opposition of the idea, the thought of sleeping somewhere so foreign a discomforting one.

A pink hoof on on his shoulder helped ease Shining’s worry, Cadence waiting beside him with a warm smile. “Don’t worry so much Shining, I’m sure it’ll be comfortable enough.” Cadence’s willingness in the matter put Shining’s fear to rest, allowing her touch along his back relax his tightened muscles.

“I guess it’ll be fine,” Shining breathed. The fight gone from his body, he felt the soft tug of sleep pulling at his bones.

Leafy’s allowed herself a relieved smile, her head bobbing in a discreet nod of thanks towards Cadence. “If you get hungry or thirsty during the night just check the kitchen, there’s plenty of leftover you can help yourself to.” A yawn followed Leafy’s final words, her need to rest pulling her towards the stairs.

“Good night,” Cadence called softly after the sleepy pony, evoking a lazy wave from Leafy before her white rear disappeared from sight. “We should be heading to sleep as well.” Shining followed the suggestion without acknowledgement, the day’s journey obvious in his movements.

The red barn’s massive door proved simple enough to open, well oiled hinges soundless as they followed the orders of Cadence’s magic. Beyond them waited a hard dirt floor, the golden color of hay peeking at them from the second level.

Eyeing up the flat expanse, an idea managed to push into Shining’s blurry mind. “Why don’t we set up the tent? There’s plenty of room in here.”

Cadence murmured agreement, the rustle of paper already sounding between her hooves. She recited the complex incantation just in time to catch Shining with an ethereal mattress as exhaustion overcome him.

Not bothering to form the canopy, Cadence crawled in beside the already sleeping Shining. Gracing his lips with a goodnight kiss before falling into the black clutches of sleep herself, dreams of the day ebbing into her mind.

★★★

The smell of cinnamon perked Shining’s nose, the tantalising scent reminding his stomach of its want to eat. Rolling onto his side he felt soft fur against his hoof, his eyelids blocking his vision. “Cadence?” The question was met with a wetness against his face, unexpected enough to shock Shining completely awake.

“Arf!” Opening his eyes Shining found his forelegs around a puppy, its pink tongue hanging inches from Shining’s face, hot breath wafting across his nose with each pant. Another lap at Shining’s nose caused him to flinch, gathering his hooves underneath.

The puppy sprung away in unison with his movements, its short white tail flailing madly as it circled around Shining, barking at odd intervals.

Ignoring the playful animal, Shining stretched his jaw in a yawn, the movement easing tension along his neck. The open barn door invited him outside, a mix of warm summer sun and soft birdsong aiding in its invitation.

Stepping into the light breeze outside, Shining followed a cinnamon scent, each step bringing him closer to the Apple family home.

“Good morning Shining!” Cadence called a greeting as he opened the door, the front room empty. “Just wait at the table, I’ll be out with breakfast soon.” The words were chased by a giggle, another voice joining Cadence’s in the joyful sound.

Ignoring the ache in his stomach and the urge to peek into the kitchen, Shining stretched himself out along the cushioned floor, his joints popping as each limb extended.

Cadence appeared from the kitchen door, dressed in a white apron, holding a steaming plate of pancakes drizzled in syrup. “You sure woke up late.” The comment distracted Shining’s mind from the delicious looking treats in front of him.

“What time is it?”

“Nearly noon dear,” Another voice answered him. Leafy stood beside Cadence, dressed in similar attire, her apron was colored like an apple, red frilled with green. “You must have really tired yourself out yesterday.”

“Mmmm,” Shining mumbled, his want to eat stronger than curiosity. The sight of his stuffed cheeks elicited another giggle from the aproned pair.

Two brown paper packages encapsulated in pink were deposited next to Shining’s plate. “If you’re still hungry you can have out sweets we bought yesterday. I haven’t been able to fit mine in with all the wonderful food round here.” Shining’s stomach responded to the gift with a rumble, loud enough for the mares to share another laugh.

“So what are we doing today?” Shining questioned between mix mouthfuls of pancake and banoffee pie.

“I was talking with Leafy in the kitchen earlier and she recommended we just stroll around town for a while. Apparently its full of ponies interesting ponies to talk with, and then there’s a lake a short walk from the town that Leafy says is beautiful.”

The white mare’s bobbing head supported the suggestions. “If you can manage to visit the lake just as the sun is setting you’ll find an amazing view waiting for you.” Leafy’s eyes shimmered for a moment as a snapshot of a memory passed through her mind. Ginger beside her as they watched the orange glow fading over the horizon, the skyline reflected on the water before them.

Shining opened his mouth to release another yawn, only to have a burp escape along with it. The pair managed to suppress their giggles this time, Leafy bringing a hoof to her mouth just in case. “So are we ready to go then?” Shining’s question jolted Cadence into preparation mode, her mind skimming through a mental checklist.

“Just let me take this apron off and grab a drink first.” Shining’s eyes followed Cadence’s pink rump as she scurried towards the kitchen, the movement of his head an obvious sign of his actions.

“You really do like her don’t you?” The voice startled Shining, reminding him of the pony standing next to him.

Switching his focus to Leafy, Shining found a comforting smile waiting for him. The easy expression only helping to fuel the fire burning in his cheeks. “Uh, yeah. I guess I do.”

Leafy’s eyes somersaulted at Shining’s awkward response, her head shaking at his naivety. “There’s no need to be embarrassed about it. Your attraction is a natural part of life, embrace it.” The comforting words worked against their intention, the redness of Shining’s face growing with Leafy’s amusement.

“What are you two talking about?” Cadence sprung through the kitchen door, yellow saddlebags dangling at her sides.

Muffling her laughter, Leafy twisted her head back at Cadence. “Shining was simply telling you how much he loves you,” She teased, the half truth of the statement leaving Shining unable to deny.

“I think that’s very sweet Shining.” Cadence stepped across the room to stand next to Shining, her hooves singing on the wood below. “It’s too bad he never tells me these things.” Her lips graced Shining’s snout, the stallion barely noticing through the swirl of confusing emotions in his gut.

“Oh he’s much more of a shower than a teller.” Green eyes perked out as Leafy imitated Shining’s previous actions, the over exaggeration bringing a smile to Cadence’s face and another kiss to Shining’s cheek.

“That’s actually how I discovered he had an interest in me,” Cadence admited, holding Shining’s eyes with a comforting look, helping to ease his embarrassment. “I babysat his little sister for years, constantly wondering if this colt liked me or not. It wasn’t until I questioned Celestia about it that I found out. She told me to watch his eyes and sure enough I caught them.”

The two mares shared a laugh, the sound repeated enough by then for Shining to grow sick of it. “I think it’s about time we went to town,” He commented, attempting to hide the annoyance in his voice.

Noting the slight hint of emotion, Cadence nodded, understanding. “I think Shining’s right, we’ve been inside for enough time today already.” Craning her neck, she checked her saddlebag with magic to be sure everything was there. “We’ll see you later Leafy.”

“You two have a good day.” Leafy saw the two out, farewelling them with a wave before retreating back inside.

Outside the sun had nearly reached its peak, a hard light attacking their eyes, forcing them to blink. His eyes adjusting first, Shining scanned the landscape. Rows upon rows of apple trees heavy with fruit met his gaze, large wooden buckets resting under a few.

Continuing to turn his head, Shining spotted Big Mac plodding towards the barn, a cart filled with bright red dragging behind. “That’s Mac right?” He whispered the question, not wanting to let the stallion hear his forgetfulness.

Following the direction of Shining’s gaze, Cadence squinted her eyes through the sun. “Mmhmm,” She nodded, pulling the little knowledge she had of Mac into mind. “He was having some trouble with something last night.”

“Oh that’s right.” Forgetting the reason he was staying quiet, Shining half yelled the words, catching Mac’s attention. Mac only acknowledged his notice for a second, his head flicking towards Shining just as fast as it turned away. “Goldy said something about stallion problems, whatever that is.”

Watching Big Mac’s nervous glance, Cadence couldn’t help but smile at the shy stallion, her caring heart wanting to help. “You’re a stallion aren’t you?,” She nudged his side. “Why don’t you go talk to him?” Shining grimaced at the suggestion, talking to unfamiliar ponies not something comfortable for him.

“I don’t know, maybe we should just go to town.” The excuses coming from Shining’s lips reached no one, Cadence already strolling toward the slow-moving stallion. Accepting his fate with a sigh, Shining followed.

Unable to ignore the other ponies, Mac stopped, his eyes tracking the couple as they closed the distance. His hooves shuffled on the spot, itching to avoid the confrontation, a nervous concoction stewing in his stomach.

“Hey Big Mac, I don’t think Shining or I have been introduce yet. I’m Cadence,” Peeking back over her shoulder, Cadence waited till Shining was by her side. “And this is Shining Armor.”

Mac’s lips twitched, his mind wanting to express itself, interact with the ponies standing before him. “Eyup.” His vocal cords managed to produce the sound through the weight of anxiety, the burden of fear tightening his throat.

Cadence smiled at the response, expecting more of a conversation to work with. Her mind jumped to the only thing she remembers about the stallion. “So you’ve been having problems?” Cadence winced as the words left her mouth, the sentence coming out more insulting than she had intended.

Mac replied with a blush, turning away from the source of his embarrassment to look back at the barn.

“I guess we’ll see you later Mac,” Shining quickly interrupted the awkward silence, not wanting to bother the stallion any longer. Nudging Cadence with his snout, he started her into action, the pair striding back to their original path.

The red structure of the Apple family home disappearing over the horizon, Cadence allowed relief to escape her lungs. “Thank you for saving me there Shining. Who knew trying to talk to ponies was so difficult.” Turning to Shining, she found a comforting smile waiting for her, a white leg draping round her neck in a half-hug.

“Some ponies just aren’t as confident as others.” A picture of Twilight drifted into Shining’s mind, her bumbling attempts at making friends during her first week of school. “Remember how Twilight was when she first met you, I’m sure Mac’s just like that.”

Her eyes lazily trailing the treeline beside them, Cadence smiled at her own memory of Twilight. The filly had hidden the first time Cadence babysat, only with enough coaxing from Shining had she shown herself, holding Cadence in her eyes as if she were a monster. “Maybe, I’ll try again tonight.”

The short walk to Ponyville was uneventful, their only company the forest to their right, its contents hidden by a wall of leaves. Idle banter filled the air, Cadence speaking her plans aloud, Shining listening, adding ideas every so often.

“So we’re definitely going to the lake later,” Cadence confirmed, the buildings of Ponyville all around them now. “And there doesn’t seem to be much else to do.”

“We could always go back to that sweet store, Sugarcube something.” Shining offered the suggestion with a hopeful smile, his stomach thinking for him.

The proposal brought a smirk to Cadence’s face, her eyes catching sight of something in the distance. “I’ll allow it on one condition.” Surprise jolted onto Shining’s face followed by a nod, his reaction widening Cadence’s smile. “So you don’t want to hear the other end of the offer?”

Shining’s lips paused before a word escaped, his mind finally recognising the devious look plastered across Cadence’s face. “What exactly do you have in mind?”

“I think it’ll be best if I show you.” The words hung in the air as Cadence strolled off, Shining following a few steps behind, still dwelling on the possibilities Cadence may have in mind. A mix of pink and blue caught Shining’s eye, Cadence’s path taking them directly towards the colorful structure.

“Aloe and Lotus’s Relaxation Spa,” Shining read from the sign overhead, the words foreign to him. “What’s a spa?”

“Something you’re going to enjoy.” A bell chimed as they enter, a pair of ponies greeting Shining and Cadence with wide smiles and squinted eyes. Their colors mirrored each other perfectly, one possessing a mane of short pink hair, her coat baby blue, the other’s coat pink and mane blue. White bandanas held both of the mares’ manes back.

“Welcome to Aloe and Lotus’s Relaxation Spa,” The one with a blue coat announced, her voice welcoming. “I am Lotus and this is my sister Aloe, what can we do for you today?”

Cadence turned back to Shining, his discomfort obvious in the shifting of white hooves and the twisting of his lips. “How much is a couples treatment?” She responded with the same cheeriness as Lotus, silently giggling at Shining’s unease.

“That depends, do you want the special treatment or the regular?” Aloe spoke this time, her voice identical to her sister’s. Cadence already found herself wondering which is which.

“Well what exactly does each one involve?” Cadence questioned, the mention of a special treatment intriguing.

The matching sisters shared a glance, both giggling simultaneously as if they were one body. “The regular treatment includes a massage, mud bath, as well as some time afterwards to relax in our naturally heated pools.”

“The special treatment includes all of that,” Aloe picked up where her sister left off, the change in speaker barely noticeable. “But we massage oils into your body that heighten your sense of touch, then we provide a room for the two of you.”

“We’ll take the special.” The words flew from Shining’s mouth before Cadence could even realise what Aloe had just implied. Cadence’s cheeks fired with red as she comprehended the past few moments, half her mind embarrassed, half picturing Shining inside of her, every movement enhanced by the promised oils.

Lotus nodded thankfully as Shining presented her with a golden bit, the purse full of them somehow out of Cadence’s saddlebags and in his magical grasp. The decision already made for her, Cadence followed the other three ponies into the next room, a row of beds waiting for them.

The floor changed from soft carpet to cool marble as Cadence stepped through the door, a chill running along her nerves. The tiled walls were broken by mirrors every few paces, another four ponies joining their group in the world behind the glass.

Stretching out on one of the thickly cushioned mattresses, Cadence allowed her eyes to wander the room. A doorway on the other side of the room led into what she assumed were hot pools, a curtain of steam at the door blocking her view inside.

Cadence could hear the light sound of splashing behind her, turning she discovered Aloe stirring a clay pot of what must’ve been the massaging oil. Aloe poured two small buckets from the mixture, trading one with Lotus for a ladle. “Now just relax, and allow the oil to work its magic.”

Obeying, Cadence rested her head in a position where she could see Shining, the stallion having a similar idea. The shared a gasp as the cool liquid was spooned onto their coats, seeping through the thin layer of fur and running over skin.

Pink eyelids shut as Cadence concentrated on the sensations across her back, the pressing of hooves, the warming oil tingling against her skin. Each push and pull along her coat slowly became more pronounced, her nerves picking up the tiniest of details.

The feeling of Aloe’s coat mingling with Cadence’s captured her attention, her mind able to pinpoint the movement of each tiny hair. Hearing a groan Cadence opened her eyes, finding Shining enjoying the massage just as much she was, the wide smile of his face twisting with each of Lotus’s movements.

A hoof running along her backside drew Cadence’s attention back to her own body, the feeling of Aloe fondling the base of her tail an unsettling one. Knowing where the massage was heading, Cadence ignored her unease, instead attempting to enjoy the feeling as Aloe’s massaging trailed down her cheeks.

Aloe’s hooves spread oil over her lips for the briefest of moments, the shot of sensation sending a shiver along Cadence’s spine before passing on.

“Can you please roll over?” Cadence failed to notice the question till Aloe repeated it, the overwhelming sense of touch dominating mind. The question reaching her consciousness the second time, she obliged, exposing her belly to the masseuse.

The touching along her sensitive underside tickled Cadence, the urge to squirm away from each touch a powerful one. She managed to maintain her stillness by ignoring her sense of touch, instead focusing on the sounds surrounding her.

The movement of hooves over her coat and Shining’s dulled by her heightened other sense, the surrounding sounds were barely a whisper in her ears. Shining’s groans were louder, the stallion unable to control himself as Lotus lathered the oil over his stomach.

“You may stand now.” The words came with the removal of Aloe’s hooves from Cadence’s body, her mind feeling dead without the constant rush of sensation. Begrudgingly she stood, resisting the urge to ask for another half-hour of massage.

The sisters led Shining and Cadence into the steamy pool room, the embrace of the moist air highlighted by their hyper sensitive nerves. Cadence felt as if she were in the water rather than walking beside it.

Beyond the humid room lay a short hallway, two doors on either side, all hanging open. Aloe’s hoof pointed towards the first opening on the left, “You may have room A, remember to lock the door behind you.” The sisters left them quickly, calls of another customer beckoning them back to the front desk.

Cadence led the way, Shining following with his eyes pinned to the carpeted floor. The room’s interior was dominated by a low-lying bed, the step onto its plain white covers an easy one for Cadence. She couldn’t help but roll against the silk sheets, the feeling of fabric against her back sending a swarm of sensation through her body.

The door clicked twice as Shining shut and locked it, the massive smile on his lips making him look like a colt in a candy store. “So where do you want to start?” He joined Cadence on the expansive bedding, the mare still relishing in the feeling of rolling across it.

“Before we do anything you’ve got to try this,” Cadence breathed between her lips, the simple pleasure of something touching her back overcoming her thoughts. Shining’s brow raised as he watched Cadence enjoy herself like a puppy rolling in fresh grass. His shoulders lifting in a shrug before he joined her.

Lowering himself onto the bed, Shining flipped his body over. The feeling of soft sheets against his back enough to elicit a groan from his throat, the tingle running along his body better than any pleasure imaginable.

Following Cadence’s lead, he squirmed against the silk, the sensation akin to one million tiny feathers running along his back, ticklish but soothing. Instinctively he spread his hooves out like a starfish, trying to push as much of his skin against the sheets as he could.

Cadence’s nickers mixed in the air with Shining’s groans, the sheets underneath rustling leaves. Accidentally, Shining rolled too far, turning his whole body onto his stomach, half-resting on Cadence.

“Oh Shining,” Cadence whispered in reaction to Shining’s touch, his coat against hers a heavenly pleasure. Grasping his foreleg between her hooves, she dragged in against her belly, the movement lightning against her skin.

Shuddering, Shining propped himself up with his other leg, leaning over Cadence to bring his lips against hers. The contact of their skin caused an explosion, sensation starting at their lips, running along their nerves to the furthest reaches of their bodies.

Wanting to taste the pleasure of another kiss, Shining lowered his head again. A shudder running up his spine shifted his aim, his lips nuzzling Cadence’s neck instead. The sweet smell of oil on her body filled his nose, strawberries.

Shining felt a sharp stab of pain from below, the overload of pleasure pushing blood towards his groin, his rapidly growing length trapped between two bodies with nowhere to go. Lifting himself off Cadence, the weight of his shaft caused it to swing downwards, a slap against Cadence’s stomach.

The harsh impact forced Shining to grit his teeth, the sensitive rod of nerves throbbing with sore pleasure. Stilling growing, the feeling of his member against Cadence’s soft coat, swelled his want as well.

Realising Shining’s condition, Cadence pushed his body down, his snout against her chest, tip poking against her lips. Shining obeyed her directions, positioning himself for entrance, the feeling of his shaft probing her a red hot length of iron burning against her skin.

Shining’s entry pushed the air from Cadence’s lungs, their interiors and exteriors sliding against each other, a river of pleasure enhanced by their over sensitive nerves. Merely being inside Cadence sent rushes of sensation down Shining’s length, eliciting deep groans from his lips.

The two stayed still for a moment, the only movement their chests rising and falling with each breath, their most sensitive parts throbbing and squeezing against each other. Their hearts beating against each other were two drums in time, each boom felt through both bodies.

The almost painful overload of pleasure fading, Shining moved once again, drawing himself halfway out from Cadence before thrusting back inside, their parts fitting as well as a sword and sheath.

In his awkward position Shining could only manage to slide a little over half of his length inside, the collision of his hips against Cadence’s rear legs stopping any further advances. The lack of space to move was countered by the power of each movement, enhanced by their heightened sense of touch even the tiniest of shifts felt like a full thrust.

With each plunge Shining’s chest ground against Cadence’s, the pleasure from the friction almost equal to that of Shining’s movements. Moans and groans filled the air along with the sloppy sound of Shining’s slow thrusts. Cadence’s sighs built in pitch, each movement another note higher, each thrust another octave.

Driven by the blank madness of her mind, Cadence lifted her head, intending to nibble Shining’s ear. The crazy pleasure shuddering through her body offsetting her sense of sight, Cadence’s felt her teeth close around flesh.

“Celestia,” Shining yowled, pulling away from the crab pincer that was Cadence’s jaw, leaving a few white hairs in her mouth. “What did you do that for?” His voice was breathy, hips still moving instinctively inside Cadence.

Pulling the leftover fluff from her mouth with a spark of magic, Cadence smiled guiltily. “Sorry, I kinda misjudged myself a lit-” Her finals words were cut off by a yelp of pleasure, Shining’s rough thrust sending a bolt of sensation through her body.

Ignoring Cadence’s misstep, Shining continued his movements, increasing his speed gradually, until the impacts of his hips against Cadence’s echoed throughout the room, the sound like a solitary pillow fight.

Feeling the tension building between his legs, Shining squeezed his groin muscles, his body’s only will a want to fill Cadence. He noted the pace of her breathing increasing, a sign of her coming release.

Trained, Shining held himself until he felt Cadence’s back arch, her inner muscles loosening briefly. Shining gave one final thrust before stilling his movements, allowing his groin to take over, pulsing his shaft in time with Cadence’s squeezes.

The first dispense of Shining’s seed was small, the hot liquid somehow cool against their burning parts. The second load was larger, each subsequent one growing in size, slowly filling Cadence’s insides with the sticky liquid.

Cadence’s inner walls writhed around Shining’s length as he ejected his seed. Her rapid breathing pushing her chest against his, the sensation adding to her release.

The ejection of Shining’s seed slowing, he lowered his body against Cadence’s, their sweaty chests feeling as one. Like waves pushing against the air above, pink pushed against white, both ponies exhausted from the stress on their nerves.

His aching muscles highlighted by over sensitive nerves, Shining rolled off of Cadence, resting on the bed beside her. Both panting in unison, Cadence and Shining caught their breath wordlessly, the bed squeaking underneath the rising and falling of their stomachs.

Cadence recovered first, propping herself up on a limb to stare at Shining, happiness in both her eyes and smile. Running her hoof along his stomach, she wiped away a line of oil and sweat. Looking down at her own belly, Cadence realised her body was covered in a similar concoction.

Climbing down from the bed, Cadence shook herself like a wet dog, splattering the room with oil and sweat.. Searching the room her eyes found two towels hung over a nearby rail. Soft against her hoof, Cadence relished in the feeling of fresh fabric, like an ice cream on a hot day it soothed her, calming her frenzied nerves.

“Clean yourself up Shining,” Cadence said with a smile as she tossed the other towel to the still dozing stallion. Shining sprung up at the impact, as if he had just been hit by a bucket of cold water. Realising he was blind with the towel covering his face, Shining dragged the soft material over his muzzle, wiping the sheen from it.

Rolling his shoulders, Shining stretched the aching muscles in his back as he used magic to run the towel over the remainder of his body. “That sure was some weird oil.”

“Mmhmm, maybe next time we can just get a normal massage?” Finished cleaning herself, Cadence bundled her stained towel into a ball before taking another potshot at Shining with it. She hit him dead in the face again, recoating his surprised expression with the sticky mixture of sweat and oil.

Shining’s reaction sent Cadence into a fit of laughter as she watched the liquid drip from his nose. “You owe me some chocolate for this.” Shrugging Cadence’s towel to the floor, Shining finished wiping himself down before bundling both sweaty rags into a ball.

Leaving the spa, they followed the rumble of Shining’s stomach, its grumbles paired with his nose to directed them to the marketplace.

Colorful stores surrounded them on all side, each corner clearly segregated into categories. In one corner bouquets of flowers, small saplings and other plant life greeted their eyes. Another held clothes and construction supplies, the third an unsorted chaos of useless junk, mostly colt’s play toys.

The final and largest corner hosted food and drink, the thick aroma coming from it metal to Shining’s magnetic nose. Strolling behind him, Cadence found her stomach responding to the call of food also, the tantalizing treats making her mouth water.

“Hay, Shining, Cadence, over here.” Turning, the pair were surprised to find Ginger Gold on the other end of the voice, his white teeth showing through a grin as he waved them over.

“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Cadence admitted, realising how obvious Ginger’s attendance at the market was. Beside her Shining’s mouth hung open, drool pooling inside, his eyes focused on the assortment of apples.

“Why ah’m here everyday, now can ah get the two of yah anything to eat?” His golden hoof waved over the selection of treats before him.

Before Shining could speak Cadence plugged his mouth with a hoof, wincing at the puddle of saliva that splashed against her coat. “Do you have anything light and sweet?”

Chuckling as he watched Cadence handle Shining, Ginger rolled his eyes into his head for a brief moment before returning his gaze to Cadence. “Ya’ll be wantin’ the miniature apples pies then.” He lifted one on his hoof, twisting it to display its glorious golden pastry.

“Right, I’ll take one for me and three for Shining, how much will that cost me?” Reaching her magic into her saddlebags, Cadence produced their pouch of bits, pulling a golden coin from the leather sack.

“Ah couldn’t ask a pony living in mah own home to pay for food, have them for free.” He held a brown paper bag out to Shining and Cadence, pies already packaged inside. Shining’s hoof reached out to snatch them before Cadence’s voice halted his movements.

“No, no, I have to give you something. Filling Shining with free pies will run you out of business.” She handed him the golden bit, “I don’t suppose you have change for that?”

On sight of the bit Ginger chuckled, shaking his head. “It’d be more trouble trying to find change for that there coin than it’d be worth. Just take them for free.” His hoof extended further, close enough for Shining to snatch the bag in his mouth, drool darkening the paper.

Rolling her eyes, Cadence pulled the food from Shining’s bite before handing him one of the pies. “Thanks Goldy.” Cadence waved, intending to leave, but a thought made her stop. “Oh, you wouldn’t have any other places you recommend going to? We’ve got a few hours before we go to the lake.”

“Well where’ve yah been so far?” Ginger questioned, causing a red glow to pass into Cadence’s cheeks.

“We’ve, uh, just come from the spa.” Noticing Cadence’s pink cheeks darkening, Ginger chuckled again as he put the obvious clues on the pair’s faces together. “And then we came right here.”

Fiddling with his hat, Ginger hummed thoughtfully, eyes squinting as he thought. “Well yah see Ponyville ain’t some big town with famous places to go like Canterlot or Manehatten. It’s more of a homey place, with good ponies. I’d say yah should just explore, see what yah find for yourself.”

Shining and Cadence tried to follow Ginger’s advice, but the unfamiliar streets of Ponyville twisted their sense of direction until they had no clue of where they were. Finally giving up on finding her own way, Cadence stopped, her stomach moaning for her to finish the other half of her pie.

“Why don’t we just stop for a break Shining?” Cadence suggested, roaming her eyes around their surroundings, looking for a place to sit. Their wandering had ended them up in a park of sorts, the closest sign of buildings a cream roof that could be spied through the leaves of a nearby oak.

Looking around as well, Shining found a plethora of colours and scents impacting his nose, every variety of flower imaginable, none of them he could name. Among them the rich purple of lavender, soft white of daisies and the alluring pink of roses.

“There’s a bench over there,” Shining pointed out. Hidden behind the drooping leaves of two willows was a flat platform of wood, easily large enough to hold five ponies side by side. Cadence strolled over and climbed onto it, stretching herself out on the wood, pulling the leftover pie from her saddlebags.

Following her, Shining rolled onto the bench to lie beside Cadence and stare at the branches above. “This town sure is boring.” A prolonged yawn helped to emphasize his point.

“It’s not boring if you know where to look.” The voice came from outside their enclosure of willows, feminine. “Ponyville is the most wondrous town in Equestria.” The curtain of leaves parted before Shining and Cadence, a cream coated pony with a mane like rose petals stepped through.

She was young, maybe a few years older than Shining and Cadence. Her green eyes wandered the natural room they shared, smile twitching and shifting as she took in the surrounding beauty. “Its gardens are simply wonderful.” Snout dancing in air she inhaled, tasting the aroma around her.

“Hey there, I’m Cadence and this is Shining.” Cadence’s hoof pointed first to herself, then Shining and she greeted the newcomer. “If you don’t mind me asking, what’s your name?”

The cream-colored mare seems startled at Cadence’s speech, as if she had already forgotten they were there. “Oh, I’m Roseluck.” A grin spread across her face as she spoke her name. “Are the two of you new to Ponyville? I’ve never seen you around.”

“I guess you could say that, we arrived last night.” Cadence said, ignoring another grumble from her stomach. “Uh, Roseluck, if you’re not too busy, would you mind showing us the way back to the town centre, we’re a little lost.”

“I’ll be glad to, but I think you should finish that pie first, you sound a little hungry.” Rose pointed to the half-eaten apple pie resting atop the brown paper bag beside Cadence. The reminder forced an embarrassed smile to Cadence’s face. Taking the treat in her magic, she quickly tore the pastry apart, wolfing down the pie in a matter of seconds.

The performance elicited laughter from Shining and Rose both, feeding Cadence’s embarrassment. “Let’s just go.” Cadence stood, scrunching the paper bag and burying it in her saddlebags.

With Shining and Cadence waiting before her, shock spread across Rose’s face, jaw hanging open as her eyes flicked around nervously. “I think I might have forgotten how to get out.”

“Really?” Shining blurted before realising the volume of his voice. “I mean, are you sure you can’t remember.” An apologetic smile formed on Shining’s lips, hoping he hadn’t frightened the unfamiliar pony.

Rose’s expression fell like a sand castle under Shining’s question, her eyes finding the grass underneath. “No, not really. I know my way around this garden better than the way back home. I, I just wanted another pony to spend time in here with me, wandering aimlessly.”

Unable to help the feelings stemming from her heart, Cadence closed the gap between her and Rose, pulling the crestfallen pony into a hug. Surprised to find her face pressed into a pink shoulder, Rose backed away slightly before simply standing still, waiting the embrace out.

“What was that for?” Rose queried softly after Cadence dropped her forelegs and stepped back.

Briefly puzzled by the question, Cadence’s face twisted with confusion before she realised her assumptions were wrong. “Oh, I thought you needed a little comfort. I’m sorry if I surprised you.”

“No, it’s fine. I just wasn’t expecting something so, bold. I was just wanting some company.” Staring at the ground, Rose traced circles in the grass with her hoof, waiting for either pony to speak.

“We’ll be happy to join you.” Surprising both himself and Cadence, Shining found himself impulsively breaking the silence. The lonely looking pony before him wearing at his heart, a want to help her overcoming him.

Glad Shining had taken the lead for once, Cadence nodded. “Yes, we’d love to. We’ve got plenty of time till we have to be anywhere, so why not?” The confirmation was a hoof under Rose’s chin, lifting her gaze up to meet Cadence’s, joy written across her features.

Following Rose and listening to her rave about the garden unlocked a magical beauty in the place, the flowers brighter, birdsong more in tune, the wind as comforting as a mother’s embrace.

Their stroll through the garden seemed aimless, Rose’s twisted and turns looping back through places they had been before. Eventually she stopped at what appeared to be a dead end, a large hedge baring their way.

“This is my favourite place in the whole world,” Rose’s words flowed from her mouth excitedly, the smile on her face growing into a grin. “I come here whenever I feel lonely, which is almost everyday.” A cream hoof tested the leafy green waters before them before Rose dove right in, swallowed by the hedge completely.

Uncertain of what was to come, Shining pushed his hoof through the wall of leaves cautiously. Finding solid ground on the other side, he barged his whole body through, bumping into Rose’s rear. “Oo, sorry.” Shining backed away, only to collide with Cadence as she followed him.

The domino line of ponies ended up on the grass, Rose giggling and the other two quickly catching on. Rose’s laughter finished with a happy sigh, her eyes watching the movement of birds in the branches above.

Recovering from the laughter, Shining rolled onto his stomach, gathering his hooves underneath in an attempt to stand. Through the movement he found his snout inches above Cadence’s, the warmth of her breath flowing into his nostrils. Allowing an urge to roam free, he lowered his muzzle, brushing his lips softly against Cadence’s.

Cadence responded as Shining withdrew, her mouth reaching up to grasp his from the air, pulling him back down with locked lips. Watching the two, Rose sensed a warmth at her cheeks, the beauty of their intimate embrace enhanced by the surrounding garden. “You two look amazing when you kiss.”

Having forgotten Rose for the moment, hearing her voice jolted Shining and Cadence, their teeth knocking against each other as they parted. “Oh, I forgot you were there.” Cheeks glowing crimson and an uneasy smile spreading her lips, Cadence rolled away from Shining.

“Don’t feel embarrassed, sharing a moment like that isn’t anything to be afraid of. It’s quite beautiful actually.” Rose spoke without making eye contact, her focus still wandering around the small room they were in.

Still feeling the soft sickness of nervousness, Shining studied the surrounding nature also, occupying his eyes while the feeling faded. His eyes climbing the tall oak that was the centerpiece, wild flowers, orange and pink, surrounded the wooden tower on all sides, like worshipers of some colossal god. The symphony reaching his ears was what caught Shining’s attention however.

The thick hedges bounced the birdsong around, a hollow tube filled with the tweeting and chirping of hundreds of tiny creatures above. They darted this way and that, fighting, playing, loving, the oak was a hive of activity, its sparrows the bees.

Shifting her eyes to Shining, Rose noticed the stallion’s head moving, tracking the birds’ flight paths. “I see you’ve taken an interest in the birds Shining.” Hearing his name snapped Shining from his trance, blinking rapidly as he processed the Rose’s words.

“A little,” Shining admitted, hoof rubbing against his neck, guilty smile on his face. “There’s so much going on, it’s almost like they’ve got their own little city up there.”

“Mmmm, that’s why I come here, watching those birds helps me forget about my problems.” A sigh escaped Rose’s lips, the breath a mixture of joy and sadness. The garden fell silent as she watched the birds above, her eyes dancing with the reflections of theirs wings.

Recalling how Mac had responded to her attempt to help, Cadence bit back the question on her tongue, not wanting to bring unease to the pony before her. “What do you mean by problems?” Shining spoke the words for her, the intrusive question making Cadence wince.

“Oh, they’re nothing really, just silly things I overthink into big problems.” Rose’s dismissal sparked a drive in Cadence, her curiosity overriding her worry of offending Rose.

“If they’re nothing big, could you tell us?” The query escaped Cadence’s lips before she could stop it, the effort only causing her to bite her tongue. “I mean, you don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

Rose’s whole body shook as she chuckled, the soft sound out of place in the conversation. “I can’t seem to find anyone to talk to. I-” Her eyes flicked across to Shining, so quick Cadence wondered if it was simply a glint of light. “I want a stallion myself, someone who I can share my interests with.”

Without realising it, Cadence shifted closer to Shining, her foreleg wrapping over his withers. “Well I’d love to help you, but as we said we’re new to town and don’t really know anyone around here.” The words rushed from Cadence’s mouth, an instinctual form of defense.

Another chuckle rolled through Rose as she noticed Cadence’s movements. “Don’t worry Cadence, I’m not the kind of mare who’d steal someone away, if that’s what you were thinking. But if you see any lonely looking stallions, could you direct them my way?”

Shining’s neck straightened with realisation, the sudden movement throwing Cadence’s leg into the air. “We know a lonely looking stallion, and he’s around your age as well.” At first shocked by Shining’s jolt, understanding of his intentions dawn on Cadence.

“He’s quite shy however, so I don’t know if he’d want to meet you.” Cadence’s eyes lit up as she spoke, her mind already plotting scenarios, a way she could convince the stallion to come out of his shell. “I’m sure you’ve heard of Big Mac?”

The excitement overflowing from Cadence spilling into her, Rose sat up, face scrunched as she thought. “I can’t say I have, is he from Ponyville?”

“He’s part of the Apple family, they live a little way out of town,” Cadence explained, I wonder if Mac even leaves the orchard.

“Oh, so he lives out there, maybe he never comes to town then.” Rose’s eyes wandered the bush behind Shining and Cadence, her ears twitching to the sound of birds chirping overhead. “I’ve seen Ginger Gold and his daughter Applejack around town, is he related to them?”

Cadence confirmed Rose’s suspicions with a nod. “I could try arranging something for the two of you, but I haven’t been able to get a word out of him so far, so don’t expect anything.”

The trio fell silent after that, Rose lying back down, belly up, watching the community of birds above. Cadence messed with Shining’s hair as he dozed, the stallion’s dreams filled with chocolate delights.

“I should be heading home soon, it’s getting late.” Rose’s announcement reminded Cadence of Leafy’s recommendation. She jumped to her hooves, pulling Shining from his rest with an accidental jerk of his mane.

“We need to be going as well, someone recommended we go to a certain spot to watch the sunset.” Cadence spoke over Shining’s wincing, a strand of blue hair falling to the ground as he stood. “Could you show us the way out of here?”

The garden was smaller than it appeared, outlines of buildings showing through the thinning flora after a short walk. Rose was interrupted by countless greetings as they strolled through town, family members, friends, all of them mares.

“We’ll meet you back here tomorrow, okay?” Cadence said as they arrived at the town square, unsure if she could navigate to the garden through the maze of Ponyville.

“Mmmm,” Rose nodded, her focus on the ever moving crowd of ponies behind Cadence. “Oh, what time?” She managed to remember before Cadence turned away.

Moving to face Shining, Cadence discussed the question with him silently, their eye contact enough to communicate. “Is noon fine for you Rose?”

“That sounds perfect, I’ll see the three of you tomorrow.” Rose disappeared back the way they had came, waving goodbye over her shoulder before disappearing round the corner.

The excitement of watching Rose’s joy wearing away, Cadence allowed a heavy breath to escape her lungs. “I just hope we can convince Mac to come with us.” The pair skirted the angry nest of ponies in the town square, sticking to the shade of the surrounding buildings.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” Shining’s speech dropped away as he dodged a pair of fillies darting out from an alleyway, a cream colored earth pony trailing a mint green unicorn. “Any stallion I know would be all over the chance at a date, he’ll be just the same.”

“I hope you’re right,” Cadence wished, dreaded fantasies of failure creeping in on her perfect picture of Mac and Rose together.

Stepping out from the marketplace, Cadence and Shining entered the maze of Ponyville again, each turn seeming to lead to the same place as the last. Different ponies gave them inklings of information, each getting them a step closer their destination.

Finally they arrived at a wall of greenery, a small dark tunnel formed in its side. It was so thin they had to go one by one, the soft touch of leaves against their sides beckoning them onwards. Beyond the trees lay another world entirely, detached from Ponyville in the same way as Rose’s hidden place, but incomparably larger.

The lush green carpet of grass ran down from the hill where they stood, circled round the mirror of water and off into the distant trees. Descending the hill, Cadence noticed the sky’s bright light disappearing behind the treeline across the lake.

The lake failed to live up to its name, more of a pond untouched by life rather than a lake. Its surface greeted Shining with ripples as he sat beside it, the overgrown grass serving as a perfect cushion.

“What is he says no?” Cadence blurted, tomorrow’s plans already weighing on her mind, her want for everything to be perfect an itch she couldn’t ignore. “It would be terrible to disappoint Rose like that.”

Looking back to Cadence, Shining recognized the familiar lines of stress on her face. “I’m sure Rose isn’t worrying about this as much as you are.” He spoke through a chuckle. “Now sit down and forget about all that stuff, this is supposed to be a trip for us.”

“I know, I know. There’s just so many other ponies out there that are alone, and I can’t bare seeing them like that.” A pink wing cloaked Shining as Cadence sat, her stress pushed from her body as a breath. “I just want to help them be like us.”

“Just make sure you don’t forget about my needs while you’re out helping ponies.” A sly smile and a wink accompanied Shining's words, the actions eliciting a giggle from Cadence.

“This is a public park Shining, someone could see us here.” Cadence peeked over her shoulder as she spoke, suddenly feeling like she was being watched. Disproving her fears, Cadence turned back to Shining, his face still holding the same expression.

Gazing across the lake looking for something else to occupy her vision but Shining’s silly grin, Cadence found a bright light catching her eye, forcing her to squint in defence. Shining had noticed it too, his hoof already blocking the path to his eyes. “Looks like the sun’s showing itself again.”

Peeking from behind the cover of her foreleg, Cadence confirmed Shining’s statement with herself. The sun had sunk below the blockade of leaves before them, its light peeking between the scattering of trunks, an irritation to her eyes.

Twisting back to face Cadence, Shining pulled her gaze to meet his, arousal obvious in his eyes. “It looks like no one ever comes here anyway, can’t we have just a little fun?”

Ignoring his begging expression, Cadence turned back to watch the sinking sun, its dying yellow dancing in the forest. “You can wait till we get home.” Her eyes rolled without thought, an instinctual reaction to Shining’s untimely cravings for both her and food. “Why don’t we just watch the sunset?”

Sighing, Shining recognized Cadence’s body language, an obvious tell pleading was going to get him nowhere. He returned his focus to the fading sunlight, wincing occasionally as a harsh flicker grazed his vision.

Silence joined the pair, a comforting companion that settled their thoughts, allowed them time to reflect on the day’s events. Cadence’s head slowly drifted into the cradle of Shining’s neck, her breathing slowing to match his.

The perfect surface of water before them stirred, a tiny ripple disturbing the mirror. Another, a plink against the soft sheet of reflection, blurring it’s vivid image.

“Oh!” Shining’s cry jolted his whole body, disturbing Cadence’s peace as well, a trail of water running down his snout. Looking up he blinked in reaction to another projectile, Shining’s eyelid shielding his eye from the drop.

Another drop, this one splattering against Cadence’s horn, running down the grooves. On and on they came, an army of rain, it’s marching a soft pitter pattering against the grass. “We should probably get under cover,” Cadence suggested as she stood, making her way around the lake’s edge, under the forest’s protection.

By the time they reached the shelter of leaves both ponies were drenched, the soft steps of raining increasing its pace to a gallop, one hundred hooves against dirt. Like a wet dog Shining shook his body, painting the surrounding trunks with his coat’s contents.

Shying away from the horizontal rain, Cadence giggled as it caught her cheeks, a tickle against her already wet face. “Why don’t we dry ourselves properly?” Cadence’s horn lit with the blue of her magic, her coat shimmering with the heat of watery air as she evaporated the moisture from her body.

Watching Cadence magic the wetness away, Shining found an idea forming in his head, one that brought a wicked grin to his lips. Biding his time, he waited as Cadence deposited her collection of water onto the ground before he sprung.

“Ow, Shining.” Cadence’s cries melted into Shining’s giggles as he pulled her to the dirt, his still soaking body recoating hers. Laughter from Cadence joined Shining’s as the pair rolled on the forest floor, their fur collecting mud until they were streaked with it, looking more zebras than ponies.

Their travel was halted by a tree trunk, the collision leaving Shining sprawled underneath Cadence in an awkward twist of limbs. Taking her revenge, Cadence smeared a stripe across Shining’s grinning face with her hoof, some of it catching his teeth.

The reaction was instant, Shining lips and tongue fighting to clear his mouth from the intrusion, his face spasming with disgust. Easing Cadence from his body, Shining dashed from the tree’s cover, washing his mouth in the pond.

A push, Cadence’s hooves on his rear sent Shining falling into the water, a mouthful of water turning into a bath. Eager to clean the dirty stains from her coat, Cadence followed with a leap, the splash from her entrance blinding Shining momentarily.

Coming up from her dive for air, Cadence found Shining waiting in ambush, his hooves flicking water at her. Always hungry for play, Cadence pounced onto the chuckling stallion, sending both of them under the surface.

A watery kiss followed the light tussle before they resurfaced, panting, their lungs wanting air. Blue eyes locked with pink, a shared agreement for the battle to begin. Water flew between both parties, soft flicks and splashes mixing their sounds with playful laughter. A war won by both sides, joy their prize.

“We haven’t done that in years.” On his back against the water’s edge, stomach heaving for want to breathe, body still being pelted with rain, Shining lay with a smile across his face. “It makes me miss the times before we were dating, still two innocent ponies just having fun.”

In a similar position on the grass beside Shining, Cadence rolled her eyes at the sky. “I could tell from your looks you were anything but innocent,” She joked, joyful tone fading away with into sigh. “But I know what you mean, everything felt easier. Celestia’s tutoring consisted of little more than drinking tea and eating cake, now look where we are.”

Looking up, Shining watched the sun’s pink light slowly fade from the grey clouds above, his mind reminiscing in the past. “Maybe that’s what this trip is supposed to be about? A time to play before your real work begins.”

Still lost in memories of her own, Cadence murmured an absentminded agreement, the constant spatter of rain against her snout the only thing keeping her mind in the physical world. “If that’s the case, we better make the most of it.”

Sticky Situations

“Good mornin’ to the both of yah.” Ginger was alone at the family table, a half-eaten plate of stewed apples and oats resting before him. The sounds of Leafy preparing breakfast echoed from the kitchen, a mix of clinking and her cherry humming.

“Good morning Goldy, and good morning to you as well Leafy.” Cadence’s lively voice and appearance were a stark contrast next to the bleary Shining. One of his hooves was attached to an eye, constantly rubbing the sleepiness away.

“Seat yourselves, I’ll be out with food in a moment,” Leafy called from the kitchen. Shining was already half-asleep on the table by the time Leafy bought two more plates of oats and apples out, Cadence resorting to tickling to wake him.

Taking her own seat next to Ginger, Leafy pecked at her husband’s bowl as she spoke. “It seems Shining isn’t much of a morning person.”

Taking a glance at Shining hunched over his bowl beside her, Cadence giggled. “Mmmhmmm, but he’ll get over it in an hour or so.” Her comment was met with a tired stare from Shining, his eyelids barely halfway open. The expression elicited another giggle from Cadence, her hoof ruffling his mane gently.

The sound of hooves on the floorboards above signaled the descent of Applejack, the filly rushing to climb onto her father’s back. “Papa,” Applejack exclaimed, stealing the hat from Ginger’s head and putting it on her own. Chuckling, Ginger twisted his body to grasp Applejack between his hooves before lifting her above his head. A wingless pegasus she flew through the air, giggling the whole time.

Silently, Leafy rose and stole back into the kitchen, the sounds of her cooking resuming. Another pair of hooves descended the stairs as father and daughter played, Mac seating himself at the table’s foot, as far away from the others as he could.

Cadence resisted the urge to instantly question him, instead keeping her eyes on the joyful pair before her. Applejack’s jaw never closed, always hanging wide open in awe as she zoomed over the tabletop.

Eventually Ginger’s arms slowed their movement and Applejack’s flight came to an end, her body still vibrating with laughter. “Ah gotta be going now sugarcube,” He said as he took his hat back from Applejack’s head before standing and walking towards the door. “Ah’ll see ya’ll later.” A kiss from Leafy was the final farewell before the door closed behind him, the room falling silent.

Taking her chance, Cadence turned to face Mac, the stallion’s eyes buried in his bowl. Just ease into the question slowly, make him feel comfortable. “Are you feeling good this morning Mac?”

Big Mac’s eyes rose slowly to meet Cadence’s. “Eyup.”

“I was wondering if you wanted to do something different today?” Mac shrank away from Cadence’s words, eyes flicking around the room, looking for somewhere else to rest. You’re losing him, come on, think of something “Would you like to meet a mare in town?” Cadence finally blurted.

Green eyes froze at the mention of mare, Mac’s breathing growing noticeably louder. Silence retook its hold on the room, the only sound Shining’s sloppy eating. Big Mac’s confirmation came slow, the single word drawn out, a wavering note in the air. “Eyup.”

“Great, will you be ready to leave in an hour?”

“Eyup.”

A sigh escaped Cadence’s lungs, the tension in her stomach fading away. Her eyes widened as she spooned breakfast into her mouth. Excitement tickled the ends of her nerves, every limb feeling as if it were on fire, the beating of her heart a drum sounding throughout her body. Apple and oats has never tasted so sweet.

“Now you three have fun,” Leafy cooed, farewelling the three with the wave of her hoof as they walked out into the mid-morning sun. Big Mac had been surprisingly eager to get going, his normal slow and steady self replaced by a jumpy and excited stallion. Shining had been the one to slow them down, his joints still sticky with the glue that was sleep, mouth used more for yawning than speaking.

“We will Leafy, see you later,” Cadence called over her shoulder, a smile splitting her lips, revealing the white teeth underneath. The sun’s warmth was magic against her coat, standing her fur on end, sending nervous shivers down her limbs.

Mac drifted further and further back as they walked, until he was so far behind Cadence could no longer hear his hoofsteps. “You don’t want to get left behind Mac!” The call jolted Mac’s body, his pace picking up instantly, a sheepish smile on his lips.

“Sorry,” Mac mumbled.

Unable to help herself, Cadence giggled at the word, Yes, I’m making progress. Looking to the side she found a questioning stare from Shining.

“Why are you giggling?”

“No reason whatsoever,” Cadence replied before continuing down the road, a cherry humming emanating from her body. Shaking his head, Shining followed the cherry princess, Mac a few steps behind.

Ponyville creeping over the horizon flicked a switch of realisation in Cadence’s head, We still have a while before noon. “Is there anything you want to do in Ponyville Mac?” She questioned, Please don’t ask any questions.

“Ah thought.” Two words were all Big Mac managed.

You thought? Oh. “I know you thought we were going to meet a mare,” Cadence spoke quickly. “And we still are. It’s just we arranged to meet her at noon, and we’ve still got a while to wait before then. So is there anywhere you’d like to go while we wait?” Please don’t freak out like yesterday.

Mac’s whole body paused, his gaze frozen on the town in the distance, the only sign he was still alive the movement of his breathing.

“What about Sugarcube Corner?” Shining suggested with a sly smile.

Eager to have the weight of decision off his shoulders, Mac nodded quickly. “Eyup.”

Sighing, Cadence flashed Shining an irritated look before returning her focus to Mac with a smile. “Let’s go then.”

Shining was the one trailing the group as they continued, his mind populated with fantasies of chocolate cake, gooey caramel and sweet cupcakes, mouth hanging open in anticipation.

Opening the sweet store’s door to the ring of a bell they found the same lanky, yellow stallion waiting for them, filling the glass display cabinet with treats. “Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, would you like anything to eat?”

I’ve got to make Mac feel comfortable. “Why don’t you choose first Mac?” Cadence suggested with a nudge.

The red stallion’s eyes filled with color as he stared at the plethora of sweets before him, mouth opening as if he was going to answer before snapping shut. The moment stretched longer and longer, Mac’s brow growing dark with sweat, his legs shaking.

“Maybe you’d like some time to think about it?” The yellow stallion suggested.

Maybe if I save the moment, Cadence will let me have a little extra? Stepping forward, Shining pointed towards the cabinet. “I’ll have a raspberry brownie, a banoffee pie, a-”

“Just one Shining,” Cadence cut in with a chuckle, I’ll need to thank you later for that. “I would like the orange cupcake.”

The yellow stallion placed the first of Shining’s choices and Cadence’s on a tray before shifting his gaze to Mac. “Have you decided yet?” Mac’s hoof lifted, pointing towards the display cabinet. “So you want a raspberry brownie as well?”

“Eyup.”

“Is that eat here or to go?”

Cadence chose a window table, the passing of ponies outside visible through the glass. Shining’s brownie was gone the moment it left the tray, while Cadence picked at hers absentmindedly, her mind consumed by thought.

His treat already gone, Shining watched Mac as he ate, the spectacle causing him to chuckle. The red stallion’s pupils dilated as he took his first bite, the rest of the brownie soon following

“Have you ever had chocolate before Mac?” Shining questioned, a thoughtful smile on his muzzle.

“Nope.” Mac’s voice was a few octaves higher than his normal drone, the hints of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

The almost cherry response evoked a giggle from Shining. “Cadence can I buy Mac another brownie?”

Still looking out the window, Cadence shook her head. “No, I wouldn’t want him getting full before his lunch with Rose.” Her jaw dropped, eyes widening. “Rose?” She stood in an instant, leaving the bakery at a speed that would put the Wonderbolts to shame.

Confused, Shining followed Cadence’s path through the window. I can’t believe it. A cream colored mare was standing outside the window as well, her movement halted by Cadence’s calls. The sight of Cadence spread a smile across Rose’s muzzle, the rose petals that were her mane dancing as she nodded at Cadence’s explanation.

“Rose, this is Mac. Mac, Rose.” Cadence’s hoof pointed from pony to pony as she introduced them across the table. Rose’s smile had lessened in size, the color of her cheeks matching her mane. Mac looked exuberant, though if it was from meeting Rose or the raspberry brownie Shining couldn’t tell.

Rose and Big Mac held a look for a few moments, sharing a smile without words. The silence chipped away at Cadence’s confidence, Come on, one of you say something. Another moment passed, Cadence patience finally snapping“Why don’t you talk about something?”

The suggestion fell on deaf ears, Mac and Rose continued to stare at each other, taking in the features of the pony opposite to them. “Maybe we should just leave them alone for a while?” Shining whispered, his eyes focused on the sweet cabinet, mind already sampling each flavour.

“I suppose we could go for a short walk.” Standing, Cadence readjusted her saddlebags before walking straight outside, leaving Shining to look forlornly at the rows of treats. Stepping out into the streets, Shining spotted Cadence standing underneath a small oak opposite Sugarcube Corner.

“What are you doing over there?” Shining called as he dodged between ponies to meet her.

She was twisting and turning her head, squinting like an old blind stallion trying to recognize another pony. Following Cadence’s gaze, Shining found himself staring at one of Sugarcube Corner’s glazed pink windows, the silhouettes of two ponies behind it.

Shaking his head, Shining draped a foreleg over Cadence’s withers, turning her away from the peeping hole. “I thought you said we were going for a walk.” He felt her body lift and fall underneath him, a sigh escaping her lips.

“I know I shouldn’t be doing this,” She admitted, stealing one final glance back at the window. “I just want to make sure everything’s going perfect for them. What if Mac really can’t say anything but eyup and nope?”

“They’ll be fine.” Shining drew small circles on Cadence’s neck with his hoof. “Now let’s go for a short walk around Ponyville, I want to see if there are any other sweet shops around here.”

The joke brought a smile to Cadence’s lips, her eyes meeting his. “Fine.”

They spent the time following Shining’s nose from restaurant, to cafe, back to the food market, Cadence absentmindedly denying each of Shining’s requests to purchase something. Her mind was still occupied by Mac and Rose, terrible fantasies of how everything could go wrong flooding her thoughts.

When Shining’s hungry stomach eventually led them back to Sugarcube Corner for the third time Cadence couldn’t resist any longer. “Can we check on them now?”

Shining’s mouth opened to deny her request, his jaw shutting as his eyes meet her begging expression. Why does she have to be so adorable? He nodded, “But only if you promise not to interrupt them.” Cadence was bounding away by the time he spoke. She didn’t even hear me did she?

Cadence’s stomach was bubbling with nerves as she pushed open the swinging door, keeping her gaze straight ahead, not daring to look at the table where Rose and Mac sat. Please be having a good time, please be having a good time.

The door clicked as it opened and shut behind her. “Uh Cadence, they’re gone,” Shining said.

Turning her head to confirm for herself, Cadence found the table empty, the lanky yellow stallion clearing plates from it. “Excuse me?” She questioned, raising her voice to reach the stallion. “Do you know where the couple who sat at this table went?”

Swinging his gaze towards the voice, the yellow stallion spotted Cadence striding toward him. “I can’t say I do sorry, maybe if you told me what they looked like?”

“One was-” Stopping Cadence’s words with his hoof, Shining smiled apologetically at the stallion.

“Don’t worry about it, I’m sure we’ll find them later.” The lanky stallion nodded before zooming away, Shining waiting till the sound of his skates faded behind him before unblocking Cadence’s mouth. “Are you sure we even need to find them?”

“Of course, they could be having a bad time.” Panting, Cadence raced for the door, leaving Shining to follow. Back outside, Cadence scanned the streets for any sign of Rose and Mac, her searching fruitless. Shining stood beside her, watching the bustle of ponies as they passed without paying attention, his mind recalling the previous day.

“Are you sure you want to interrupt then?” He questioned, Please say no Cadence, you’re acting crazy. To his disappointment Cadence nodded frantically. Sighing, Shining pointed down the street. “Maybe they went to the garden we were in yesterday? Rose said she went there all the time.”

Cadence’s eyes brightened at Shining’s words, her forelegs wrapping around his neck as she nuzzled him. “How could I forget that, of course that’s where they are.” Releasing her grip on Shining, Cadence tried to bound away, only to find her tail tugging her backwards. Looking backwards, she found Shining holding the multicolored length of hair like a leash.

“Why don’t we just leave them to themselves?”

Cadence’s lips twitched with protest before a sigh pushed through, her neck drooping. “I know I seem a little obsessed, I just want to make sure they end up as happy as we are.” She accepted Shining’s waiting hug, rubbing her muzzle against his shoulder. She stayed pressed against him for some time, breathing in his smell, enjoying the stroking of his hoof down her mane.

“They’re grown ponies like us Cadence,” Shining said eventually. “You can’t babysit them like Twilight, and you can’t expect their date to turn out perfectly, some ponies just aren’t meant to be together.”

Cadence lifted her eye to meet Shining’s, a proud smile on her lips. “Do you want to get some chocolate?”

They decided on a hollow duckling sculpted from it. The window table where they had sat previously was occupied, so Shining picked out a secluded corner where they could lie out of view.

“So what are we going to do for the rest of today?” Cadence queried as Shining lowered a splinter of chocolate into her mouth. The pair lay so close they were almost one, feeding each other with morsels of the chocolate animal.

“I was thinking we could just stay here and eat until Rose and Mac return.” Shining’s breath brushed across Cadence’s snout as he spoke, the rich smell sending chills down her spine.

Rolling her eyes, Cadence chuckled as she fed him another shard of chocolate. “I was thinking of something more like,” Cadence snapped her mouth shut before the thought could escape, a heat rushing through her body. What am I thinking, we couldn’t do that here.

“Something like what?” Shining questioned, Why does she look so uncomfortable?

Cadence scrunched her eyes, trying to push the fantasy from her mind, the blush from her cheeks. “Forget about it, it’s a silly idea anyway.” Another shiver rolled through Cadence’s body as Shining nipped her ear, the intimate touch fueling the burning on her face.

“Tell me,” Shining begged with a breath, his soft nuzzles against Cadence’s neck threatening to go further.

“Okay, fine, I’ll tell you.” Feeling her body twitch in reaction to Shining’s tickling touch, Cadence eased his muzzle away, looking deep into his eyes. “Just promise you won’t think I’m crazy.”

Adopting a serious expression, Shining nodded. “I promise.”

Taking deep breaths, Cadence flicked her gaze around the bakery, to be sure no one was in earshot. “I was thinking we should, uh, become one, right here at this table.”

Shining felt a pulse of blood rush to his groin, his length twitch with the warmth of arousal. “That seems like a crazy idea,” Shining admitted, instinctively casting a glance around as well. “But sometimes crazy ideas are fun.”

Like a goldfish, Cadence’s mouth opened and shut, her mind a mix of shock and excitement. Finally she decided, her lips forming a sultry smile. “Do really want to do this? What if we get caught?”

Shifting backwards, Shining felt his hardness growing underneath, his shaft wedged between belly and cushion. “Isn’t that half the fun?”

Shifting her body, Cadence rolled onto her side, pushing her back into Shining. Following Cadence’s movements, Shining moved his body in line with hers, back hard up against the wall behind him. His shaft rested against Cadence’s rear, twitching with anticipation every now and then.

“Do you want me to start?” Both scanning the bakery to make sure no one had noticed, Shining asked the question in a whisper.

Cadence gave the surrounding tables one last glance before nodding, “Go slowly, you know how loud I can get.”

Shuffling his body down Cadence’s, Shining felt his hot muscle twitch in reaction to the rubbing sensation, each movement causing him to gasp. Finally Shining pulled clear, his length hanging free behind Cadence’s rear, begging to be used. “Has anyone noticed?”

“No,” Cadence whispered over her shoulder, body tense, bottom lip tucked underneath teeth, waiting for Shining to move.

Shining bent his lower body, shifting his hips towards Cadence, angling his tip for a perfect entrance until he could feel her heat against his own. One final thrust followed by a muffled grunt and he was inside, Cadence tightening around him.

Moving slowly, inch by inch, with Cadence keeping watch, Shining filled her with his length, both of them barely suppressing their urges to moan and groan. Eventually Shining’s snout was in line with Cadence’s neck, the cramped corner table not allowing him enough room to enter any further and even less to move.

Unable to do anything else Shining and Cadence lay together as one, each breath of the other pony sending sparks of pleasure through their bodies. “This is di-different,” Cadence said, a twitch from Shining’s length causing her to gasp. “I wonder if anyone knows what we’re doing?”

From his awkward position, head pressed against Cadence’s neck, Shining could see a little more than two tables, both filled with with colorful groups of ponies. “I don’t know, I can barely see.”

“I wonder if anyone will notice this then.” Cadence clenched her inner muscles, tightening around the length of hot muscle inside, causing Shining to gasp. The breath was drowned out in the noisy chatter that filled the room, the wall of sound giving Shining and Cadence all the privacy they needed.

Cadence’s teasing jab of sensation sent the muscles in Shining’s groin into a spasm. Their want for more squeezing sent twitches down his shaft, swirling it inside her like a stick in a cauldron. The movement filled Cadence’s insides with pleasure as well, her body tensing against Shining again for hope of more.

The one squeeze from Cadence had set a snowball in motion, Shining’s shaft moving in reaction to Cadence’s clenching, her body tightening around him as a result of his movement. On and on it went, Shining’s twitching growing more violent, Cadence’s insides clenching tighter and tighter.

As the pleasure grew so did their struggle to keep quiet, Shining jamming a hoof between his teeth to muffle his grunts and gasps, Cadence biting her lip to control her moans. The overbearing noise in the room and the dimness of their corner table kept Shining and Cadence hidden, passing ponies not even sparing them a glance.

On and on the pleasure rolled, building to a point where it overcame Cadence’s will to resist it. Gasps escaping her mouth as she squeezed against Shining, moving her hips up and down.

Mind blank with pleasure, Shining’s hips thrusted into Cadence without thought, his hooves running along her body, snout inhaling her scent.

“Can I sit here?” The voice sent a shock through both Shining and Cadence, quenching their burning desire with fear. Cadence fluttered open her eyelids she couldn’t recall closing to find a colt standing before them, slice of cake in hoof. “Sorry if I’m bothering you, there’s just no where else to sit.”

Gasping, Cadence managed a nod, shock stealing her ability to speak. The colt shuffled onto the seat across from them, want for cake reflected in his yellow eyes. Breathing slowly to recover, she eyed the blue colt with a smile as he ate, the point of his dark blue fringe trailing in the cake’s chocolate brown icing. “What’s your name?”

Looking up at Cadence’s question, the colt looked almost surprised to see the two of them still there. “I’m Noteworthy, not that there’s anything noteworthy about me though.”

“I’m sure there’s something special about you, what do you like doing?” Cadence focused on her breathing as she spoke, Please stop twitching Shining, this is embarrassing enough.

“I don’t like doing anything,” Noteworthy mumbled through an angry mouthful of cake. Meeting Cadence’s eyes, he found an unbelieving smile on her face, beckoning him to explain further. “Well, I do want to do one thing, but no one will ever let me try it. They say if I can’t do math or play ball I’ll never be able to play an instrument.”

“Why don’t you-” Cadence gasped at a sudden twitch from Shining’s shaft inside her. “Why don’t you go buy an instrument?” With her blue glow, Cadence reached into the saddlebags beside the table and pulled out one of the golden bits. “Will this be enough?”

Noteworthy’s yellow eyes glinted gold as he saw the coin, his jaw dropping half a mouthful of cake onto the table. “I, I couldn’t take that, that’s more than enough to buy one hundred instruments.”

“What about this then?” Cadence replaced the golden disc with a silver one. “Is this enough for one?”

Chocolate cake icing flicked from Noteworthy’s hair onto Cadence’s face as he nodded, taking the bit from midair between his teeth. “Thank you so much for this miss?”

“Cadence.”

“Miss Cadence, I’ll never forget this.” Noteworthy rushed from the table, smile spreading his lips, his cake still left behind.

“Well that was close,” Shining mumbled into Cadence’s neck, nuzzling against her at the same time.

“Mmmm,” Cadence murmured, I can’t tell if I’m glad for the colt or just relieved he’s gone. Her face chose the former, a wide grin showing her teeth. “I think we should get out of this position before anyone else decides to sit with us.”

Cadence felt Shining shuffling down her body, a breath drawn from her lips as he drew his shaft from her. “There’s still one problem we need to deal with.” Cadence felt it as Shining spoke, his hot, slippery length falling against her rear as he pulled it out completely.

“I know, we still haven’t finished our chocolate.”

Half a hundred splinters of chocolate later, Shining’s member had retreated to its resting place, hidden away from the world. The chocolate duckling was a few brown crumbs left on the table, most of it melted in Shining’s stomach.

His craving for chocolate finally content, Shining found his mind drifting to things outside of food and Cadence, I wonder what Rose and Mac are doing? “Do you think we should try find Rose and Mac? They’ve been gone for a while now.”

Cadence gasped, a jolt of shock running through her body. “I completely forgot about them,” Cadence said as she stood, fearful fantasies clouding her mind. “What if something terrible happened to them, what if they didn’t like each other, what if-”

Blue magic clamped Cadence’s lips shut, Shining chuckling as he climbed to his hooves. “I’m sure they’re fine. If you really want to we can go check the garden Rose loves.” Cadence lifted a hoof to her lips, pointing at the glow surrounding them. “Oh, sorry.”

“I think that’d make me feel better.” Cadence spoke as she strolled through the crowded bakery, dodging ponies carrying treats every few steps.

The high noon sun greeted them as they stepped outside, no clouds in the sky to shelter them from its burning heat. Ponyville’s maze of streets was growing more familiar to Shining and Cadence with every loop they took of it, the pair recognising buildings here and landmarks there. Eventually they stumbled upon the expansive gardens they were looking for.

Wooden willow limbs tickled Shining and Cadence’s backs as they stepped from dirt onto grass, the bench they had met Rose yesterday waiting for them. Flowers were laid across the wood, yellow and gold and pink, a rainbow of petals scattered on the grass underneath.

“It looks like they’ve been here,” Shining pointed out. He took a bud of purple lavender from the seat and sniffed it, the strong scent making him sneeze. “Why don’t we leave them alone, it looks like they were having fun.”

Shaking her head, Cadence stepped further into the garden. “I need to see them for myself. Come on Shining, I’m sure they’ll be in Rose’s special place.” The untamed streets of nature proved harder to navigate than it had seemed yesterday with Rose leading them, every flower looking the same to Shining and Cadence’s untrained eyes.

After wandering blindly for some time the whisper of a familiar voice finally reached their ears, so soft it could be mistaken for birdsong. “This one’s a daisy.”

“Did you hear that?” Cadence questioned, flicking her ear round in attempt to capture the sound again. A white muzzle bobbed slowly as Shining nodded, barely breathing as he copied Cadence’s stance.

“And this one is a Rose, like me.” The wind carried the voice to them again, Big Mac’s unmistakable murmuring of approval following it.

Wordlessly, Cadence nodded in the direction the sound had come from before slowly stalking through the grass toward it. Shining followed her tail, the pair stopping whenever Rose spoke to correct their course.

Eventually the dead end hedge was before them, rustling of grass and Rose’s voice clearly audible behind it. Cadence reach her hoof towards the wall of leaves, meaning to push through but something was holding her back.

Turning around she found Shining holding her tail in his magic, his hoof held up. Stop, he mouthed, beckoning Cadence away from the hedge. “Don’t you think we should just give them a little more alone time, it sounds like they’re enjoying themselves?” Shining whispered as they stepped away

Eyes widening, Cadence suppressed her urge to yell. Instead she took a deep breath and whispered back. “We came all the way here and you won’t even allow me to check on them?” She turned away with a muffled grunt, stepping back towards the hedge.

Shining’s hooves on her shoulder halted Cadence’s progress. Walking in front of her, Shining pressed his snout against hers, looking deep into her purple eyes. “Cadence,” He breathed. “Just stop and think about this, we already know they’re doing fine. Don’t you think it would ruin their time if you just barged in like that colt did before?”

Cadence’s shoulders slumped as she sighed, her whole mood deflating. “I know, you’re right, I just wanted to make sure.” A smile found her lips. “I know, I’m a little obsessed, but, what if something goes wrong?”

“Then it goes wrong.” Shining wrapped his foreleg over Cadence’s neck, pulling her into a tight hug. “You don’t have to worry about every little thing that happens, sometimes it isn’t your fault.”

“You’re right, I guess we’ll ask Mac about it when he comes home.” Cadence’s soft smile twisted into a sly grin, her eyelids lowering over sultry eyes. “And until then, I think we have some unfinished business.”

“I think we’ve found out it’s best to do that in a secluded spot where no one will interrupt us.” Shining chuckled before adopting Cadence’s expression. “A place like this garden.”

He chose a random direction and started walking, Cadence following him through the garden’s twists and turns until they were lost once again. “Is this good enough?” She motioned towards a gap between two lavender bushes, a small dim space hidden behind.

Purple buds brushed against them as they squeezed into a small room that lay beyond. Pacing around the room, Shining found a different variety of flower greeting his eyes on each side, Cadence waiting for him at the entrance with a smile.

A pink hoof brushed Shining’s fringe back, pink lips touched against his cheeks with a wordless whisper, each movement sending a warm rush through Shining’s body. Cadence pushed him to the grass, the want in her eyes a greater stimulation to him than any touch.

Back flat against the ground, Cadence holding him down with her weight, Shining shivered at every kiss along his neck, down his belly. The pinpricks of sensation all swam towards his groin, tugging at the length hidden between his legs, exciting it into the open.

Hot white skin pressed against Cadence’s muzzle as she collided with Shining’s shaft, the length responding to her breathy kiss. Shifting her body, Cadence climbed onto Shining’s belly, his member resting against her rear.

With her magic she directed the burning length, positioning the tip against her wet lips. Propping herself up on her hind legs, Cadence leant backwards, letting Shining’s shaft slip inside her until she was sitting on his groin, the twitching muscle inside.

His gasps and groans filled the dim space as Cadence tightened herself around him, the familiar length inside her a comforting feeling. Opening her wings partially, Cadence flapped softly while pushing upwards with her legs. The motion propelled her halfway up Shining’s length before her hips dropped back down, a pang of pleasure spreading through Cadence’s body.

The rough impact drove the muscles in Shining’s groin into a craze, their movement causing his member to throb, begging for more. Fulfilling his desire, Cadence drove herself upwards with another flap, this time so high only Shining’s tip was still inside, before falling back onto his hips, the painful impact chased with the roar of pleasure.

Up and down, Cadence rode her stallion, listening to his lustful groans and responding with whines and moans of her own. The garden around her was gone from Cadence’s mind, her worries about Rose and Mac, her thoughts of the journey Celestia had planned for them, Shining’s body dominated her mind, the pleasure drowning out all else.

Shining was in a similar state, his brain dead to the world, the nerves lining his shaft thinking for him, tugging his hips upwards to push into Cadence’s drops. His mouth hung open, drool leaking down his cheek, eyes rolled back into their sockets, whole body concentrated on Cadence’s movements, clenching around him, pulling him toward climax.

Together they danced along the highway of sensation, gasping and moaning as they climbed the ever steepening incline. The end came suddenly, an abrupt drop into a pool of fulfilment. Communicating with twitches and squeezes, they chose to leap, climax overcoming Shining and Cadence as they fell.

Shining’s groin and Cadence’s inside spasmed simultaneously, releasing their final burst of pleasure throughout their bodies. Pulsing, Shining emptied his essence inside Cadence, coating her tight, wet inner walls in hot seed.

Cadence’s lips tightened around the base of his shaft, relishing in the feeling of being filled. Each spurt of the warm liquid caused her to clench harder, squeezing out every last drop.

Panting, exhausted, she allowed herself to fall forward, her muzzle finding Shining’s neck, his softening member slipping out. The entrance unplugged, his seed spilled from Cadence’s lips, trailing down her rear and pooling on the grass.

“I think I needed that,” Cadence breathed into Shining’s coat, feeling the touch of his lips against her horn.

Bodies hot from the activity, the pair lay in the shade of the surrounding bushes, Cadence nuzzling Shining’s neck, Shining stroking her mane.

“These purple ones are lavenders.” The voice startled the resting couple, hoofsteps rustling the grass outside their private space. “Here, smell it,” The voice was unmistakably Rose, Big Mac’s deep murmurs of assent following it. “There’s another flower over here I want to show you.”

Cadence breathed a sigh of relief, Rose’s voice and the sound of shifting grass moving away, each step lowering their chance of being caught. “We should clean ourselves up and get out of here before they get back.”

“Just a give me a little longer,” Shining protested through a yawn, his eyelids drooping, breathing slowing. A prod in the cheek from Cadence’s hoof jolted him from the sleepy state, her blue glow pulling him to his hooves.

“You’re not going to sleep here, come on, get up.” Obedient to Cadence’s commands, Shining stood, stretching the post coital tiredness from his muscles, another yawn pushing between his lips. Stepping back out into the sunlight, they found no sign of Rose and Mac. “Now how do we get out of here?”

The singing of birds and buzzing of bees accompanied the pair as they stumbled through the garden, attempting to navigate the maze of trees and flowers. “How does Rose find her way in this crazy place,” Cadence exclaimed after they found themselves back at the lavender bushes for the third time.

“I just follow the smell,” Rose’s voice responded from behind.

Turning, Shining and Cadence found her strolling some distance behind them, a wide grin showing her teeth. Mac walked a few paces further back, his eyes lowered to the grass. “Have you been following us the whole time?” Cadence questioned.

“Only for one loop.” Rose burst into a fit of giggles, a soft rumbling that could have been a chuckle coming from behind her. Recovering from the laughter with a sigh, the grin shrank from Rose’s face, “I’m sorry we left without you back there.” Rose twisted her head back, eyes meeting with Mac’s. “We just wanted some time alone.”

Annoyance flared on Cadence’s face for the briefest of moments before fading into understanding. “I think I know what you mean,” She felt Shining’s leg sneaking over her withers, pulling her in close. “The best memories are made when its just the two of you, not surrounded by a crowd of ponies in a bakery.”

Cadence felt chuckling rolling through Shining’s body, the soft movement bringing a smile to her muzzle. I think we’ve learnt our own lesson from this. The smile grew into laughter, Rose and Mac’s eyes meeting as they waited for the chuckling couple to finish.

Their shared laughter dying out, Shining pulled his foreleg from Cadence’s shoulder, directing his eyes towards Mac and Rose, “So, how’d it go between the two of you?”

The pair shared an extended look, both faces holding a smile when they turned back to look at Shining and Cadence. “We’ve found a common interest to be sure, time will hopefully fill in the rest.” Rose reached her head up to nuzzle at Mac’s chin, like a cat rubbing itself against its owner’s hand.

“I guess we should leave the two of you alone then,” Cadence said, glancing at the surrounding garden. If only that were possible. “After you show us the way out of course.”

Rose navigated the twisting garden maze with ease, taking turns that seemed random to Shining and Cadence. The names of many different flowers filled the air as Rose listed them off, pointing each one out as they passed them.

The scent of white roses grasped Mac’s nose, the red stallion lingering behind the group until he disappeared the haze of green. “Shouldn’t we wait for him?” Cadence asked. What if he gets lost in there?

“Don’t worry about him,” Rose said, a grin on her lips as she gazed back. “He just needs to spend some time with the flowers, I’ll find him once I’ve led you out of here.”

The sounds and sights of Ponyville came upon them quickly after that, a soft whisper raising into the buzz of the marketplace, outlines of rooves growing into buildings. “I guess this is where we say goodbye.” Rose halted her movement, letting Cadence and Shining walk a few steps past her.

Turning back, Cadence felt herself smile, She looks so happy, like she has something to look forward to. “We’ll see you again tomorrow won’t we?”

“I,” Rose’s smile faltered, her neck swinging back to the garden behind. “Mac and I kinda had something planned for tomorrow.”

“We could accompany you.”

“Something alone, just the two of us.” Rose’s eyes met Cadence’s. “Like you said, the best moments are just the two of you.”

“You have fun then.” Cadence turned to walk away, but Shining tugged her back. “What?” She whispered.

Shining glanced at Cadence out of the corner of his eyes, his head shaking subtly. “We’re going to be leaving town in a few days Rose, I know we’d both like to say goodbye once more before we go.”

“Oh yes.” Cadence resisted the urge to hit herself. “We really would appreciate seeing you one last time.”

“If you don’t mind me asking, where are you going?” Rose questioned.

Instinctually, Cadence leant back to look at her saddlebags. “I don’t actually know, Celestia actually planned the whole trip and I haven’t read too far ahead yet.”

Rose’s jaw dropped and eyes popped out, “Celestia, as in Princess Celestia?” Cadence nodded, Rose’s green eyes widening even further. “You actually know her?”

“Yes,” Cadence fluffed her wings, extending them outwards. “I’m actually a princess myself, I thought you would’ve noticed?”

A chuckle shaking her body, Rose shook her head. “To tell the truth, I haven’t been looking at much besides your eyes, I didn’t even notice your horn till now.”

Cadence felt a warmth coming to her cheeks, chewing her lip as her eyes wandered. What am I supposed to say to that? “Well then, I guess we’ll see you later Rose, have a good afternoon with Mac.” The couple spun away after giving Rose one last wave, the streets of Ponyville a few steps away.

“Thank you,” Rose called after them before dropping her voice to a whisper. “Thank you so much.”

“Where are we going now?” Shining asked once they had rounded the corner, the bustle of the market greeting them.

Stopping just outside the crowd of stalls and ponies, Cadence eyed the seemingly never ending sea of color before her. “Someplace far away from all this chaos. I think I just need peace and quiet after all the stress of this morning.”

“Why didn’t we just stay at the garden then?”

“I have a feeling Rose and Mac need their space as well.”

They walked away from the market, Cadence leading Shining away from the noise until silence finally met them. A great tree stood in the centre of the open area they had stumbled upon. A door was carved above its roots, windows between the branches, it almost seemed like a home.

Cadence sat underneath the tree’s shadow, Shining joining her. The couple sat wordless for a while, the only sounds the singing of birds and the occasional passing hoofsteps of a pony. Eventually Cadence spoke, “I think we’re ready to leave this town.”

“What?” Shining straightened his neck, daydreams of chocolate mountains fading from his mind.

“I said I think we’re ready to leave, move on the the next place in our journey.”

“But we’ve only been here two days, there’s still so many things to do, so many sweets I haven’t tried at Sugarcube Corner.” Shining’s tongue lolled from his mouth, a drop of saliva forming on the tip.

Pushing Shining’s muzzle away, Cadence giggled. “I’m sure there’ll be plenty of sweets to eat at the next place we visit.” She paused while the laughter faded, her shoulders drooping and breathing slowing. “Celestia’s itinerary only said we should stay three nights,” She joked. “But that’s not why I think we should leave. This town feels complete. It feels like we’ve done what we were supposed to do, like we were baking a cake and now its out of the oven.”

“We still need to put the icing on top.” Shining pressed his lips into Cadence’s, lifting her eyes to meet his with the contact.

“Ah, young love, what a beautiful thing,” A voice said from above. The comment was like and explosion between Shining and Cadence’s lips, the snouts shooting apart, red circles forming on their cheeks.

Straining her neck to look upwards, Cadence found an elderly mare with a baby blue coat leaning over the balcony rail above. Her free hanging silvery grey mane swung in the breeze, dawn pink eyes reflecting the sun’s light. “Have you been listening to us the whole time?”

A chuckle rippled through the mare’s body. “These old ears don’t miss much, but don’t worry, no one has the patience to listen to my crazy rambling anymore.” With that said she turned around, disappearing back into the tree’s trunk.

I wonder what that was about, Cadence thought as she returned her eyes to Shining. “Now what was that about icing?” She leant into him, allowing her eyes to close as their lips met, pouring her emotion into the touch.

The door behind Shining slammed open, jolting him away from Cadence again. The old mare peeked her head out, a sly smile on her lips. “You don’t have to stop just for my sake you know.” She giggled at her own joke, a strained sound, as if she was having difficulty. “Now why don’t you two come inside.” The old mare disappeared back into the tree, door hanging open behind her.

“Do you think we should go in?” Shining whispered as they stood, his hooves taking a few steps away from the library. “We could just go somewhere else, she seems a little crazy.”

Cadence shook her head, skirting the tree’s roots to peek inside the library. “Don’t be rude Shining, she probably just wants someone to talk with,” She said.

Teeth gritted, Shining took another step away from the library, beckoning Cadence with his head. “Please, I don’t really feel like going into some spooky looking tree.”

“I’m sure there’ll be something to eat.”

Sighing, Shining slumped his shoulders before following Cadence inside.

The tree had been hollowed out, its first room walled in by bookshelves. I haven’t seen this many books since I last went to the Canterlot archives, Cadence thought, her eyes roaming the rainbow of colors that lined each wall. There must be thousands in here.

Looking around, Shining spotted no one, “Where is she?”

“I’m in the kitchen dear,” The old mare’s croaky voice called. “Why don’t you two come in and have some tea?”

Shining turned to the side and spotted a doorway, half of an oak table visible in the room beyond.

Stepping through, the pair found the old mare swaying slightly as she stirred spoons in teacups, her soft humming greeting their ears. “Have as seat, the tea will be ready soon.”

The kitchen table was surrounded by plump white pillows, their soft embrace accepting Shining and Cadence easily as they sat. Tasting the air with his snout, Shining’s nostrils crinkled with distaste. “What kind of tea is she brewing?” He whispered into Cadence’s ear.

“It’s lavender dear, my favourite brew.” The old mare turned from her stirring, three teacups nestled between her neck are foreleg. Cadence quickly took two of the cups in her blue glow, placing them before Shining and herself. “Thank you dear.” The mare dipped her head slightly.

Bringing the cup to his mouth, Shining sipped, his features wrinkling as the sharp scent caught on the back of his throat. The old mare chuckled, “Don’t like my tea?”

“No it’s, great.” Tilting his head back, Shining downed the whole cup before forcing a smile to his face. “I’ve never tasted better.”

“Would you like some more then?” The old mare climbed from her cushion and strolled back to the kitchen bench. “There’s plenty.” She took the porcelain jug and shook it, puffs of steam floating from its opening as the liquid inside swirled around.

“I think he’s fine,” Cadence cut in, earning her a nod of thanks from Shining. “I’d like to know why you invited us in.”

The old mare carried the jug to the table, refilling her half empty teacup. “Truth to be told I just wanted to talk. I’m an old mare who cares for a little used library, it gets lonely here sometimes.” She looked from Shining to Cadence, her soft smile deflating. “It makes me almost jealous seeing such young ponies so full of life, reminds me of when I was like you.”

“What was your life like back then?” Cadence questioned, causing Shining’s shoulders to slump slightly.

A smile returned to the old mare’s face as she eyed Shining, “I don’t want to bore your friend with the details, so I’ll just say it was like yours is now. A different town and different ponies yes, but the same feelings filled our souls and drove our lives.” She sighed, eyes looking past Shining and Cadence into the wall behind them, the smile on her lips widening. Eventually she shook her head, “Why don’t you two tell me of this journey you’re on?”

Cadence tightened her lips, cheeks bulging with tea as she resisted the urge to speak. Swallowing hard she finally said, “How do you know?”

“I heard you talking of leaving town, about how you’ve only been here a few days. Seems to me you’re on a journey.”

“I don’t think we’re on the journey yet, more like taking the first steps, readying ourselves for the true adventure.” Cadence nodded as she spoke. Yes, we’ve still got so much more to go.

“Well then I’ve got the perfect thing for the two of you, wait here.” The old mare climbed to her hooves and stepped back into the main room, the sound of her steps fading away. A groan of frustration and a rustle later her hoofsteps returned, slower. “This book is an old treasure of mine.”

She dumped the leather-bound tome onto the table, the wooden structure rocking underneath the weight of it.

The sight captured both ponies’ eyes, it stood two hooves high, border with silver and fastened with a clasp of similar metal. “I think this is a little too heavy to carry with us.” Shining said.

The old mare chuckled, shaking her head as she retook her seat. “Don’t worry, I’m not giving you the book, it’s the information inside it that I wish to bestow upon you two. This book is supposed to tell the future, but I cannot use it as it requires magic, and as you can see,” She tapped her forehead with a hoof. “I’m lacking that.”

Leaning over the book, Cadence coughed, the cloud of dust swimming above it catching in her lungs. “So what are we supposed to do with it?”

“There is an inscription on the back, I just need to turn it over.” The old mare leant over the table, wedging her hooves under the tome as she lifted it. She barely got one hoof under before she stopped, panting.

We’re going to be here for hours at rate, Shining thought as he lit his horn. “Let me help you.” His blue glow surrounded the book, its silver lining glowing the same color as he lifted it. The glow ran along the book’s frame until it reached the hinge and sunk into the keyhole, dispelling Shining’s magical grasp.

Shocked, Shining and Cadence leant away from the table, eyes glued to the book as its locked popped open. The leather cover slammed down against the table as if a gust had just blown it open, pages glowing with blue fluttering in magical wind. On and on pages flipped over, words and paintings flying by, all highlighted by a blue tint.

Eventually it stopped, the light dying, book stilling, left open. Peeking out from underneath the table, the old mare looked left and right. “My my my, that certainly was something.”

“What does it say?” Shining demanded, bending over the table to gain a better view. The sight he found brought a wrinkle to his brow. “What kind of writing is this?” His hoof traced the image embraced by strange symbols, an inked depiction of a pony eating an apple and a snake hanging from the branch overhead.

The old mare brushed Shining’s muzzle away, “I can’t read it if you’re leaning over it like that.” Once he’d retreated, she shuffled the book closer, bending her neck over the page. “It seems the text is written in Ancient Equestrian, just let me go get a book for translation.” She rose from her pillow and stepped into the main room, leaving Shining and Cadence alone once again.

“What do you think the picture means?” Shining twisted his head as he spoke, Hopefully it isn’t something terrible.

Cadence twisted her head also, straining to see the page upright. “I don’t know, I can barely tell what it is.”

“It is a pony eating an apple accompanied by a snake, the sign of poisoned temptation,” The old mare explained as she stepped back into the room, another, much thinner book tucked under her foreleg. Returning to her seat, she opened the smaller book on top of the larger. “Now let me see.”

Shining and Cadence waited, leaning across the table as the old mare picked each word from the small book, pages fluttering in a frenzy. Tension building in his stomach, Shining felt his heart racing. What does she mean poisoned temptation? That can’t have anything to do with us right?

“It seems your fortune is not a desirable one.” The old mare closed her book and lifted her gaze to meet Shining’s. “These symbols translate to a temptation so great you will lose everything you love for it.”

Turning his head, Shining met Cadence’s eyes, a ball of nerves stuck in his throat. “Don’t worry Shining, it’s just an old book, nothing will happen.” Cadence ruffled his mane with her hoof, the comforting touch easing his breathing.

“I hope.”

“I wouldn’t doubt the power of a magical tome like this if I were you,” The old mare pointed her hoof at Shining, the limb shaking. “Be very careful, and maybe if you watch your steps you’ll be able to avoid a horrible fate.”

Cadence stood abruptly, jerking Shining up with her. “I think we’ll be going now, thank you for the tea.” She dipped her head before strolling quickly from the room, Shining close behind. After the door slammed shut behind them, Shining released a sigh.

“You don’t think this is going to come true right?”

Lifting her eyes to the sky above, Cadence sighed herself. “I don’t know. Celestia always taught me to respect prophecies, but the ones she talked about were stained in glass, not hidden away in some dusty old book.” Forcing herself to smile, Cadence draped a foreleg over Shining’s withers. “Why don’t we go get something to cheer you up?”

Shining’s neck straightened, the corners of his mouth curving upwards. “Chocolate?”

“I’ll allow it this time.”

Bigger Things

“Wake up Shining, we need to be leaving soon if we want to make it anywhere before sundown.”

Groaning, Shining rolled from his stomach onto his side before cracking open white eyelids, a view of Cadence’s smile greeting him. “Just give me a little longer.”

“You said that last time I woke you, now up.” A ringing filled the room, blue glow creeping around Shining till it covered him. Allowing herself a small smile, Cadence jerked her grasp upward, watching Shining as his eyes sprang open and hooves panicked, flailing in mid air.

“Alright, I’m up, I’m up. Now let me down.” Hooves once again touching the ground, Shining yawned, stretching the remainder of sleep from his body. “You really need to find a better way to wake me.”

Bringing a hoof to her chin, Cadence lifted her eyes in a thoughtful gaze. “I think you’re right Shining.” The stallion breathed a sigh of relief. “A bucket of water would be a much more appropriate way to wake you.” Chuckling, Cadence shook her head at her own joke before stepping towards the barn doors. “I want to see you inside soon, otherwise I’ll be back with the bucket.”

Blinking and yawning, Shining followed Cadence out into the bright sunlight, his pupils shrinking away from the harsh glare. Slowly he adjusted until he could open his eyes to the cloudless horizon before him. The smell of apple and cinnamon caught his nose, tugging on it and leading Shining inside.

An empty table waited for him as he stepped through the door, sounds of Cadence and Leafy coming from the kitchen. He peeked inside just far enough to meet Cadence’s stare. “Go sit at the table,” She shooed him with her hoof. “I’ll bring out breakfast soon.”

Resisting the urges of his nose and stomach, Shining slumped down beside the dining table, roaming the room with his eyes. They sure so have a lot of pictures. Framed images of a multitude of ponies covered the wall beside the front door. Coats colored shades of red and green and yellow, all standing in front of the house they hung inside.

Pink caught the corner of his eye, Cadence walking towards him with a steaming plate of pancakes suspended before her. Behind her walked Leafy, a mug held in her mouth. “I made these especially for the both of you,” Leafy said as she sat.

Looking at the pancakes Cadence had placed before him, Shining leant down and smelt the aroma, a sharp hint of cinnamon catching in his nose. Snapping his jaw shut, he turned to Cadence, “Do you want to have some first?”

Cadence giggled, eyes scrunching up as her head bobbed. “It’s good to see you showing some restraint.” She took one of the pancakes in her magical grasp before rolling it into a tube. “The rest is yours.”

On Cadence’s word Shining dove at the pile, like a rabid dog as he tore a chunk from the stack with his teeth, cheeks bulging as he chewed.

“It’s always a joy to see someone enjoying my food.” Leafy sat across the table, mug held between her hooves as she sipped from it.

“I just don’t know how he eats so much,” Cadence shook her head, her pancake barely nibbled at while Shining had already devoured a third of his stack. “It’s like something overcomes him and changes him into a different pony.”

Leafy chuckled, head tilting back and eyes looking up. “Goldy’s much the same, he’s just learnt to control it.” She blew over her mug before taking another sip. “That reminds me, you’re leaving today right?” Cadence nodded, a bite of pancake in her mouth. “Well then could you stop by the apple stall, I know he’ll want to say goodbye.”

A satisfied gasp caught Cadence and Leafy’s attention, their eyes finding Shining on his back, bulging stomach in the air. “I’ll make sure to remind Cadence,” He said before groaning. “And maybe next time, just a few less pancakes.”

Cadence giggled, poking at the white hill that had formed on Shining’s stomach, eliciting more groans from him. “Now that’s he’s topped up I think it’s a good time for us to go.” She stood, pulling Shining with her, his belly almost dragging along the ground as they strolled towards the door.

“I guess this is goodbye for me then.” Leafy pulled both ponies into a hug, leaning against them, forelegs wrapped over their withers. “Good luck with your journey, and when you get back maybe you can visit Ponyville again? Ginger and I would love to have you stay.” She loosened her grip on Shining and Cadence, dropping her hooves back to the floor as they turned to go. “Oh, one last thing. Thank you for taking Mac out yesterday, I can see by the way he walks he’s so much happier.”

Shining and Cadence turned to face each other, eyes locked together they shared a smile. “It wasn’t us who made him so happy, but I’m sure you’ll find out who it is soon, when he feels ready to tell you,” Cadence said, turning to step outside.

“Wait,” They turned to find Leafy with one hoof raised. “What do you mean by who?”

Cadence’s lips parted, her eyes glancing sideways to meet Shining’s before she nodded. “It wouldn’t be right if we told you Leafy, it’s best if you wait for him to.” She lifted her foreleg to wave. “We’ll see you again, someday.”

Their saddlebags waited for them outside the barn. Lifting the blue pair onto his shoulders Shining shrugged, his features twisting as he swung the bags from side to side. “These feel a little heavier than they were, did you put something in them?” His blue glow encased one of the flaps, neck straining as he look backwards.

“It’s just some food Leafy gave us for the journey,” She slammed the flap down on Shining’s snout, causing him to jump. “Now come on, I want to be at least out of town by the end of today.”

Shining’s bloated stomach slowed their progress, the fast pace Cadence originally set making him groan with each step. The bulge had eased by the time they reached Ponyville however, allowing Shining to straighten his neck from its slumped position.

The sight of Sugarcube Corner lifted Shining’s head another notch, his eyes widening and mouth opening slightly. “Can I buy one last thing?” He turned to Cadence, poking out his upper lip and tilting his head, like a dog begging for food.

Oh how can I resist a face as cute as that. “Fine, but only something small.” Cadence giggled as she watched Shining bound off towards the store, his mane sailing in the wind. She stepped slowly after him, giggling again, He doesn’t have any bits to pay with.

Clang! Cadence stopped, rubbing her sore hoof as she eyed the offender. A bent and dented bit of metal lay before her, one end opening out into a curved cone, the other a small hole. Curled pipe connected the two, a cylinder attached at the centre, the other two scatter around it. Why is there a trumpet out here?

Taking it in her magic, Cadence lifted it to the path’s side, leaving it underneath a small, single story home. Peeling blue paint showed the wood underneath, a smashed window giving her view inside. The walls were bare, cracked and peeling much like the outside, a young pony lay atop a stained mattress, his blue coated back to her and darker mane sticking out at strange angles.

Stepping closer to the window, Cadence poked her muzzle inside. “Noteworthy.” The colt shifted slightly, his ear twitching for a few moments before becoming still again. “Are you okay Noteworthy?”

Rolling over, Noteworthy’s eyes widened as he spotted Cadence peeking through the window. He stood, moving across the room to his open door, shaky blue hooves shifting a hingeless piece of wood to cover the opening.

“Don’t you even think of closing your door on me you brat!” The voice rang through the house, jolting Noteworthy, the door falling from his grasp. A bedraggled grey pony stepped through the once again open frame. “I told you to lie still until lunch!” A hoof flew through the air, knocking Noteworthy onto his back, his legs curling round him defensively.

“Uh miss, I don’t think you should be treating him like that.”

The mare swung her head towards Cadence’s voice, frizzy black mane falling over her eyes as she did so. “Celestia,” She grunted, brushing the hair away to reveal white eyes pinpricked with black pupils behind. “You’re that pink one who gave him the coin aren’t you?” Grey lips twisted as she spat, Cadence catching the glob of saliva with her magic before it hit her.

“I just wanted to help hi-”

“Help him?” The grey mare stomped toward the window, forcing Cadence to pull her snout out from the cracked glass. “You’re just taunting him, making him think he has a chance as some musical performer when all he’ll be good for is rock farming like his father.” The raging mare stormed back to the doorway, picking the panel of wood up before slamming it in front of the window, blocking Cadence’s view.

That can’t be real, that doesn’t happen in Equestria. Cadence scrunched her eyes closed, the wide-eyed mare’s face burned into her mind. I should go back and help him. A pink hoof rose to take a step, freezing in mid-air. No, if that’s what happens when I try to talk with him, how much worse will it be if I try to rescue him?

Shaking the image away, Cadence continued to walk towards the bakery. I hope he gets what he wants some day.

Inside Sugarcube Corner Shining was waiting in line behind a couple, his wide eyes glued to the glass cabinet, tongue lolling from his mouth. The sight brought a smile to Cadence’s face and she stepped forward to kiss his ear. “What would you like dear?” At least I can please one pony easily.

His eyes flicked from side to side, mouth closing as he swallowed the lake of saliva that had formed there. “Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, would you like anything to eat?” The yellow stallion behind the counter questioned Shining again before he could answer Cadence.

“Could I have a piece of that cake?” Shining pointed his hoof towards a chocolate-cream smothered cake, small swirls of solid chocolate decorating the outer edge.

“The chocolate-cream cake?” The stallion pulled a slice from the half-missing cake and held it above the counter for Shining to nod at. “Would that be have here or-”

“To go please,” Cadence cut in. We’ll never be out of town before noon at this rate.

The mid-morning sun greeted them as they stepped back outside, its hot embrace attacking Shining’s cake, causing a dollop of cream to slide off as they walked down the street. “Now all we have to do is say goodbye to Goldy at the market,” Cadence thought aloud. “And then find Rose, I’m sure she’ll be in the garden.”

They joined the slow stream of ponies heading towards the town centre, the bubbling conversation coming from the market growing louder with each step until the hit a sea of ponies.

“That’ll be two bits.” Ginger’s twang cut through drone of other ponies, allowing Cadence and Shining to find him easily. Blue eyes lit up as Ginger spied the pair, his hoof waving them over. “Ah guess this is the last time ah’ll be seeing you for a while.”

Shining took the outstretched orange hoof and held on for the ride, Ginger’s rough shaking rocking his whole body. “Ah know my wife will miss yah Shining,” Ginger chuckled. “She always loves watching ponies enjoy her cooking.” Red tainted the white of Shining’s cheeks, the taste of chocolate still strong in his mouth.

“And Cadence,” Ginger tipped his seston. “Ah must thank yah cheering Mac up yesterday. I know he won’t tell you, but he appreciates it.”

A smile spread across Cadence’s muzzle. “It wasn’t just me,” Her eyes flicked to the side. “I couldn’t have aided him as much as I did without Shining’s help.”

“Ah’m sure you couldn’t have, the two of you sure make a fine couple.” Shining and Cadence’s eyes met, their cheeks sharing a fiery blush. “Anyhow,” Ginger pointed towards a basket that rested on the stall’s edge. “This is for the two of you, just some food to hold you over on the journey.”

Shining peered into the basket, his eyes popping out at the crispy brown and gold pastries stuffed inside, their tantalising aroma tempting his nostrils. “Thank you very much,” Cadence said as she snatched the basket away with her magic. “And thank you for your hospitality Goldy, I hope we can see Leafy and you again.”

“Have a safe journey,” Ginger called after them as they strolled off, white and pink hooves waving back.

They dodged through the bustle of ponies as they left the market, Cadence walking straight into the rear of a purple coated mare as she looped the basket through her saddlebag straps. “Sorry.”

The mare turned to face them, a friendly smile on her lips. “Don’t worry about it, I’m sure you didn’t mean to.”

Finally free from the frenzy of ponies, Cadence allowed herself a sigh of relief. “Now all we have to do is say goodbye to Rose and we can leave.” They found the garden after only a few wrong turns, Rose standing at its entrance.

“Hey Shining, hey Cadence.” Rose waved them over, her teeth showing through a grin, a white lily resting over her ear.

“How did you know we were coming?” Cadence questioned. “Did Mac tell you?” Rose confirmed her suspicions with a nod. “Well make sure to tell him thank you, I was starting to worry we weren’t going to be able to say goodbye.”

“It seems you managed to after all.” Stepping forward, Rose wrapped her forelegs around Cadence in a hug, the pink mare returning Rose’s embrace after a moment of surprise. “Thank you for organising Mac for me,” Rose said over Cadence’s shoulder. “I’ll never forget you two.” Pulling away from Cadence embrace, Rose stepped toward Shining and planted a kiss on his snout. “Thank you too Shining, for convincing Cadence to give us some alone time.”

Shining rubbed the wet spot with his hoof, a tinge of pink forming on his cheeks. “You’re welcome, I guess.”

Stepping sideways, Cadence draped her foreleg over Shining’s shoulder. “Anyway, we need to be leaving soon, so I guess this is goodbye Rose. I hope you-”

“One last thing.” Rose held up her hoof, stopping the two ponies. “Mac!” She called into the garden, the red stallion appearing with two rings of flowers hanging from his neck. “We made these for you this morning.” Rose pulled the first one off with her teeth and stepped toward Shining.

Shining stood staring at the necklace Rose held as she strained her neck upward. Flowers of deep blue and rich pink twisted into a chain and connected. Oh, she wants me to. Lowering his neck, he felt the soft touch of petals brushing over his ears and resting against his neck.

“Looks perfect.” Rose nodded before stepping back over to Mac and grasping the other. Cadence’s was a tangle of pink and yellow and purple, the blending with her mane as Rose lowered the necklace over Cadence’s head before stepping back. “You two make quite a cute couple.”

“Thank you very much for this Rose.” Cadence lowered her muzzle, lifting the necklace into view with her hoof. “It’s lovely.” Lowering her snout a little further, Cadence breathed deep, inhaling the soft concoction of scents.

“I couldn’t have done it without Mac.” Twisting to the side, Rose nuzzled the stallion’s neck. “He helped pick the flowers and he made Shining’s chain. He even decided to put the pink flowers in to help brighten up Shining’s one.” Mac lowered his eyes and kicked the ground softly with his hoof.

I didn’t realise it had pink in it, Shining thought as he lifted the flowers around his neck into vision. “Uh, yeah, thanks for that Mac, it’s nice.” A jolt went through Shining’s body, his neck straightening and eyes widening like a colt caught making trouble. “I mean, it’s wonderful, I love it.”

“They sure are lovely, but we really need to go.” Cadence turned away from Mac and Rose before twisting her neck back round to see them. “Goodbye you two, I hope everything works out.”

Mac and Rose stood at the garden’s entrance waving as Shining and Cadence strolled away before disappearing back into the world of plants.

“You didn’t have to kick me,” Shining complained as they rounded a corner, wincing each time his back leg touched the ground.

Cadence shook her head, chuckling. “Oh don’t be such a big foal, it was only a soft touch because you weren’t being grateful.” She grasped his flowery necklace in her magic, lifting it for a better look. “Don’t you think it looks wonderful.”

“Maybe if it didn’t have pink in it. I mean yours matches your mane, so why not mine?”

“Because you’re mane’s boring.” Cadence swept Shining’s fringe aside with her hoof. “So I guess Mac decided to match your cutie mark.”

“But-”

Rolling her eyes, Cadence sighed. “If you really don’t like it you can take it off once we leave town.” The sentence silenced Shining, his shoulders slumping. Oh Shining, you’ve still got much to learn.

It was a long while before either of them spoke again, the edge of Ponyville in sight when Shining reopened his mouth. “Where are we heading to next?”

Cadence sighed with relief. Finally he talks, I guess he’s not angry after all. Magically unbuckling one of her saddlebags, she pulled the stack of paper from within. “Next Celestia has us heading for the Dragon Lands.”

Spluttering, Shining stopped in his tracks, coughing on the saliva caught in his throat. “Did you say Dragon Lands? As in the fire-breathing, meat-eating monsters?”

Halting to wait for Shining, Cadence flipped through page after page. “Celestia assures that they are a friendly nation, and that they won’t eat us.” Paper sounded against paper as she searched for the information. “Ah, here it is. She’s given us three months to get there.”

“Three months?” Shining’s head tilted sideways as he stared out onto the plains before them, a vast expanse of green grass and light forest stretching until the towering mountains beyond. “She surely can’t mean three months walking?”

“It sounds like she does.” Flipping through a few more pages, Cadence stopped and pull one from the stack. What’s this? Tucking the itinerary between her foreleg and chest she held the colored piece of paper before them in her blue glow. Names were dotted across the green and blue picture, numbers running along two of its sides. “I think this is a map.”

Watching Cadence turn the thick paper over and over, her face twisting with confusion, Shining eventually rolled his eyes. “You need to unfold it.” He took the map in his own magic, lowering it to the ground as he unfolded it, the small patch of green they first could see expanding into one a hundred times the size. “Like that.”

Bending her legs, Cadence sat on the path beside the sheet of paper, placing her hooves on the closest corners to protect it from the winds tugging grasp. Oh my, Celestia sure planned a lot. “It’s a map of Equestria and all the surrounding lands, and I think that red line is where we are supposed to go.”

Cadence hoof followed the trail, looping and swirling across the whole map, from corner to corner and back again. “There’s got to be a better way to do this than walking,” Shining mumbled, his jaw hanging open.

Standing, Cadence lifted the map magically, refolding each crease with care. “We have five years to do this, so why don’t we do as much as we can today?” She walked off, sliding the itinerary and map back into her saddlebags.

Shining groaned softly as he followed. My hooves already feel heavy.

The dirt trail continued until Ponyville was but a hooful on the horizon and even further, small bunches of trees walking with Shining and Cadence for a while before leaving. Holes lay in wait here and there, traps to the unwatching hooves of a pony. The sun rose to its peak and fell, its bright rays searing their eyes until it reached the mountains ahead.

“Don’t you think we should be finding somewhere to stop?” Shining questioned, scanning the surrounding plain with his eyes.

Chuckling as she heard the grumble of Shining’s stomach, Cadence ceased her walking. “I think you’re right, the only problem is there’s nowhere to take shelter.” She swept her hoof in a semicircle around them, eyes following its direction. “All I can see is grass and more grass, no trees or anything to camp underneath.”

“We can just sleep out in the open.” Shining took a few steps off the path before turning round and facing Cadence. “Anywhere round here will be fine for the tent.”

Gritting her teeth, Cadence glanced left and right, “Isn’t it a little exposed out here? I’d prefer somewhere with a bit of privacy.”

What would you want-” Shining’s words stopped, his mouth silently forming and O shape. “Why don’t we just use some invisibility magic to hide ourselves?”

Bringing her hoof to her face, Cadence kneaded her forehead as she shook her head. “Shining, neither of us know any invisibility spells, unless you picked something up in Ponyville.” Shining’s weak smile held the answer. I guess tonight we’ll have to go without.

Glancing up the trail, Shining found nothing but more of the same. What did I expect? An inn to suddenly appear? Turning his gaze back to Cadence he attempted his warmest smile, his features strained as the over exaggerated expression pulled at his cheeks. “I’m sure no one will see us out here, I doubt there’s even a pony within sight.”

Biting at her lip, Cadence glanced one last time up and down the path before joining Shining beside it. “I guess, but only if we walk a long way out.”

She truly meant a long way, the golden lining of sun on the mountains had faded to black by the time Cadence called for them to stop. They set up camp silently, Shining giving a real fire a second attempt with what little burnable material they had before resorting to the magical variant.

Cadence fiddled with the tent, absentmindedly playing with its expandable dimensions before eventually blurting, “Sorry for making you walk all the way out here.”

“It’s fine, a little more walking is good for us.”

Chuckling, Cadence stepped over to the fire before prodding Shining in the stomach, “Help you walk off all that fat,” She joked. Withdrawing her hoof, she shook her head. “No it’s not fine, we would’ve been fine by the path. I’m just a little paranoid after what we did in the cafe, almost being caught like that was frightening.”

Feeling a smile spread across his muzzle, Shining stepped forward, wrapping his forelegs around Cadence’s withers. “Making you feel comfortable is worth more than a little discomfort to me.” He leant his head down, pressing his snout against hers. “I’d walk for a whole day if you asked.”

Their lips met, a soft embrace, calming Cadences worries, sending a warm rush through Shining’s body. “Really?” Cadence asked, her eyes inches from Shining’s, wide and shimmering in the firelit.

How could I lie to that face? “No, I just thought it sounded romantic.”

Chuckling, Cadence tapped Shining on the snout, “Well it did, even if you were lying. Now why don’t we get something to eat?”

They settled beside each other, facing the ethereal fire. Cadence levitated the Apple’s gift basket and placed it on the grass before them, a pile of pies and pastries tempting Shining’s stomach. “Have no more than three,” She said. “I’d like this basket to at least last until tomorrow night.”

Nodding, Shining took his allowance, the three pies disappearing down his throat as if they were a glass of water.

Cadence chuckled at the display, “Someday you have to show me how you do that, we could join a circus as the Pie Eating Couple.” Her chuckles grew to giggles as she magically pulled a pie of her own from the basket, idly nibbling at the crust. Her stomach roared at the taste.

Laughing himself, Shining shook his head, “It sounds like a great idea, we could do a song with our stomachs before the act as well.” Another rumble from Cadence’s stomach sent another wave of laughter through his body, his hoof coming to his mouth to suppress the outburst.

“Sure,” Cadence mumbled into her pie, wincing as she felt another rumble bubble inside her, the sound toppling Shining, laughter spilling freely from his mouth as he rolled on his back.

“Oh come on Cadence,” Shining managed to breathe between a fit of laughter. “It’s just a joke, and you started it.” A soft growl pulled at the corners of his muzzle, the laughter eventually bursting free from the containment of Shining’s mouth.

Taking her eyes of the fire and watching Shining as he struggled to contain his enjoyment, Cadence couldn’t help but smile herself. I guess it is somewhat funny. She felt a tension pulling at her cheeks, a soft chuckling shaking her body as she continued to nibble on her pie in hopes of sating the monster inside.

She ended up stuffing four pies inside her before the sounds stopped, both Shining’s laughter and the grumbling of her stomach. Stretching out on her side, Cadence rubbed her hoof over her belly. “That’s the best meal I’ve had for a long time.”

Mirroring Cadence position, Shining shuffled close to her, draping one of his forelegs over hers. “Of course it is, it’s the first time you’re allowed yourself to have as much as you want. You should try it more often.”

“While it is nice, I think I’ll stick to how I normally eat. Celestia always warned me against eating too many sweet things, she said all princess’s had a problem with it.”

A breath of laughter escaped Shining’s lips. “Of course she says that.”

Cadence’s brow lowered, her teeth chewing her cheek as she thought. “What makes you say that?”

Lowering his eyes, Shining brought a hoof to his muzzle to muffle his chuckles. “Never mind, if you haven’t noticed by now I shouldn’t tell you.”

“Please do,” Cadence lifted Shining’s chin, his eyes meeting hers. “If you don’t tell me I’ll be wondering about this all night.”

“Fine, but don’t get angry at me if you don’t like it.”

Cadence nodded. “I won’t.”

Sighing, Shining glanced out into the darkness, Now how do I say this nicely? “Haven’t you noticed how big the princess is?” He winced, That sounds worse when I say it.

“Of course,” Cadence said slowly, her brow creased, eyes staring off into the distance as she thought. “She’s easily the tallest pony in Equestria.”

“No.” Shining shook his head, lowering his hoof from Cadence’s back to her rear, drawing circles on her cheek. “I don’t mean her height, I mean her flank, it’s quite large.”

Jaw dropping, Cadence gasped. “Why have you been looking at princess flank?”

“I look at princess flank all the time,” Shining joked with a smile, earning himself a snort of laughter from Cadence.

“I mean Celestia.”

Nodding, Shining rolled his eyes into his head. “With Celestia I wasn’t the first one to notice. It’s actually a running joke among the guards, how we’re not defending the princess from enemies, but the dangers of cake.”

Cadence giggled, her eyes glazing over as memories long past filled her mind. “That does make a lot of sense. I always remember Celestia ordering a massive cake for my birthday, I had a piece or two and then never saw it again. One birthday I asked where it went,” A giggled stopped Cadence for a moment. “I recall her turning bright red and saying she disposed of it.”

The couple shared a chuckle. “I’m grateful she did,” Shining said, trailing his eyes down Cadence’s body. “Your flank’s turned out perfectly.” His hoof trailed around her rear to the base of her tail, eliciting soft murmurs from Cadence.

Cadence lifted her foreleg from her side before placing it on Shining’s hip, massaging his cutie mark. “Yours is almost as good.” Her horn lit with blue, magically tugging at Shining’s tail, her hoof nearing its base.

“Hey, what are you doing?” Shining’s body jolted away from Cadence, the stallion jumping to his hooves, rubbing his rear.

Rolling from her side, Cadence shifted into a sitting position, eyelids lowered, a small smile on her muzzle. “I was simply doing the same thing you were,” She tilted her head to the side, expression a mask of innocence. “Does that make you uncomfortable?”

Oh, no. Not this again. “A little,” Shining admitted “It feels so weird when you touch me there.”

“But wasn’t that what you were doing to me?” Standing, Cadence brought her snout close to Shining’s before whispering right onto his lips, “I find it extremely arousing.” She circled round him, Shining turning to keep her within eye sight.

“But that’s because you’re a mare and I’m a stallion, it’s different.”

“We can always change that.” Stopping her movement, Cadence lit her horn, light blue overflowing from its tip and encasing Shining’s snout, then his whole head, then his neck, then.

Throwing himself forward, Shining took Cadence lips in his own, slowing her magic with a kiss, “Please don’t do this.”

Stilling her horn, Cadence paused, the corners of her mouth spreading wider and wider until they burst, laughter erupting. “Oh Shining, you truly are fun to tease. I don’t even know how to transform a stallion into a mare, or if it’s even possible.”

“Thank Celestia.” Shining’s shoulders slumped as a heavy breath escaped his lungs. “I really thought you were serious.”

Panting, Cadence lowered herself to lie beside the fire, eyes reflecting the orange-white glow. “I was a little serious,” She admitted as Shining retook his place beside her. “Don’t you think it’d be fun to switch roles for a night?”

A shudder rocked Shining’s body, eyes scrunched and teeth gritted. “Not at all, I don’t even want to think about how that would-” Shining stopped, glancing back at his tail, I could have sworn I felt someone touching me.

“Would what?”

Flicking his tail, Shining returned his gaze to Cadence. “How that would feel. Can’t we just do it normally?”

“Oh Shining, you’re so boring sometimes,” She said, rolling her eyes. “Trying different things is always exciting, and even if you don’t like it then at least we tried it.” Pausing, Cadence chewed at her lip before her eyes widened. “Like that massage parlour, you liked that didn’t you?”

“Yes,” Shining’s lips stretched into a smile as the memories flooded into his mind, Cadence’s every movement ecstasy to his body. He shook his head, clearing the pleasure from his mind, “But that’s different.”

“Only if you think of it that way.” Shaking her head, Cadence returned her eyes to the fire. How can I convince him that this would be a fun thing? After some time her hooves clapped together, teeth showing through a grin. “What about if I do something for you, then you do what I want.”

“Cadence, my answer is still the same as it was a few months ago, same as it was a few years ago. No.”

Sighing, Cadence chewed at her hoof as she thought. “What about if I covered myself in chocolate and let you eat if off? Would you agree to it after that?”

“The answer is still-” Shining paused, his brow creasing as he turned to Cadence. “Did you say covered in chocolate?” She nodded. “Well, I.” The night grew silent as Shining’s jaw dropped, eyes as wide as the moon as he stared into the surrounding darkness. All that chocolate. “No,” He said, shaking his head. “I’d still say no.”

Running a hoof through her mane, Cadence stood. “One day you’ll see how fun it’d be,” She nibbled at Shining’s ear before stepping toward the glowing tent. “But until then, why don’t we do it normally?”

The touch sent a rush of blood down Shining’s back, his groin growing tense as he felt his shaft peeking from it’s hiding place. “I think I’d like that,” He said, tasting the base of Cadence’s tail as he followed her.

“I think you’ve gone a little too far with the tent.” Ten steps from the doorway and Shining was still less than halfway across the room. “We could almost fit my house in here.”

Cadence shook her head, chuckling softly. “Maybe I did get carried away, but you never know when we might need the extra space.” Stepping alongside Shining, she ran her muzzle from his cutie mark to his neck, leaving a trail of soft kisses down his body.

Shivering at Cadence’s touch, Shining turned to meet her lips with his own. The air was alive with the sound of flaring nostrils as they closed their eyes, both minds focused on the point of contact.

Lifting his foreleg, Shining curled it over Cadence’s withers, playing with the ends of her mane as the two pushed themselves into each other, sharing their want for each other through the action. His hoof ran down her back, lips breaking away from hers as the rest of his body followed.

A white snout trailed over pink fur as Shining kissed his way down her neck, along her side and up to her tail, Cadence quivering with every touch. His hoof touched against the inside of her thigh, snout hovering close to her waiting lips, tasting the familiar aroma.

A spark of pleasure ran through Cadence’s body as Shining made contact, his tongue leaving one warm, wet place and entering another. She tightened around him as he stimulated her inner walls, Cadence gasping and moaning softly.

Just as quickly as he had entered Shining left, drawing his head away from Cadence’s legs, placing his forehooves on her rump with intent to mount. A yellow and pink tail curled around his neck stopped him, Cadence tugging Shining back towards her dripping desire.

Eager, Shining extended his tongue once again, tilting his muzzle forward to part Cadence’s lips, eyes closed. His tongue shrank away from the bitterness it tasted, his eyes starting open, Cadence yelping softly, I think I missed.

Running his tongue against his teeth to clear the taste, Shining lowered his muzzle, stuffing it between Cadence’s winking entrance, washing the bitter flavour away with her sweet nectar. His thirst sated, Shining pulled away once more, trailing kisses up Cadence’s rear and along her back as he mounted.

Standing over Cadence, the tip of his solid member burning against her lips, Shining thrust forward, pushing a gasp from her body as he entered completely.

A hot, wet fist, she clenched around him, locking his length inside as she breathed deeply, allowing her insides to adjust to its size. Shining twitched in response to Cadence’s tightening, his shaft sending jolts of pleasure along her spine with each sharp movement.

Finally released from her grip, Shining drew his shaft from Cadence’s sheath before sliding it back in again, moaning as her tightness locked him inside. Working her inner muscles, Cadence massaged the shaft, a rolling wave of clenching around Shining’s length.

Shining shivered, Cadence’s movements filling his mind with explosions of ecstasy, like a fireworks show, different colors and sensations appearing for a moment before disappearing.

Releasing him, Cadence felt Shining pull himself from her and drive back inside, the thrust flooding her mind with pleasure, washing away her worry, her fear of being seen. Again and again Shining filled and emptied her, pushing moans from her body, each thrust easier than the last.

“I’m, nearly, there.” Cadence spoke between each forced breath, her inner walls tightening as the last word left her lips.

Nodding, Shining worked his groin, pushing with his muscles, willing himself toward release. He felt Cadence loosen briefly before tightening again, locking him inside. Like a pony struck by lightning her insides spasmed around him, a wonderful pleasure that left him wanting more.

“Is something wrong Shining?” Cadence questioned, still playfully squeezing around him. “Usually you’re the one who finishes first.”

Shining clenched his length. “It feels stuck for some reason, like someone’s put a cork in it.” He squeezed once more before sighing. “Could we go again?”

A grin flashed across Cadence’s face before shrinking into a smile, “Of course, I couldn’t have you going unsatisfied.”

Working back into his rhythm, Shining concentrated on his shaft, imagining the relief he would feel when he finished. Cadence yelped at each impact of his hips against her rear, drawing circles in the air with her rump, stirring the length inside her.

Shining felt Cadence’s insides relax. Already? He thought as she released her ecstasy around him, his finish no closer. As her insides twitched and spasms, he pulled up memories from their time together, countless images of filling her with his seed, trying to coax one more release.

Feeling Cadence’s inner walls still, Shining drew himself from her, sighing as he fell back onto his haunches. “I think I’m broken Cadence.” Tipping backwards, he lay face up on the ethereal mattress underneath, shaft sticking straight up in the air.

A giggle burst from Cadence’s lips before being silenced by her hoof, her body shaking as she fought to contain her laughter. Eventually she collapsed onto her side, her muzzle holding a wide grin as she faced Shining. “Sorry for playing with you, I just wanted to see how it would feel going twice.”

Ringing filled the air as Shining felt a warmth rushing in his groin, his member twitching as it shot thick white, the load coming back down to land on his belly. Uncaring, he lay still, the only thing moving his spasming shaft and rapidly rising and falling chest as he panted.

The fountain finished, Shining propped himself up on his forelegs, his shrinking length blocking his view of Cadence. “What was that?”

“It’s a small spell I use to stop you from finishing too quickly.” Sitting between Shining’s legs, Cadence dipped her hoof into the pool that had formed on his stomach and licked at it like a bear eating honey. “Celestia gave it to me after I complained about your problem of finishing so quickly.”

Shining spluttered, “You talk to the princess about our, time together?”

“Of course, I talk about everything with her, why would I exclude sex from the conversation?” Cadence’s brow creased as she spoke, Shining’s seed dripping from the hoof she held near her muzzle.

“It’s personal, just between the two of us.” Shining allowed his head to fall back onto the mattress, watching the stars twinkle into view above as he thought. “I don’t tell Twilight about this, so why would you tell Celestia?”

Cadence giggled, “Shining, Twilight’s a little filly, barely even old enough to know of the things we do at night. Celestia’s one of my best friends, my only friend besides you. Don’t you have any friends who you share your secrets with?”

“Well,” Shining felt a smile forming on his muzzle, a soft warmth in his chest. “I have one pony I share everything with.”

Tilting her head back, Cadence swallowed before speaking, “Who’s that?”

“You of course.” Shining rolled forward onto his haunches, his snout colliding against Cadence’s. “I spend almost all my time with you. I’m not going to see anyone else I know for five years because of you, and I know it might seem a little obsessive, but I get jealous when I think about you being so close to the princess.”

“Oh Shining, you worry too much sometimes.” She touched her hoof to his snout, her eyes closing as she smiled. “Now why don’t we get some sleep, we’ve got a lot of distance to travel over the next few months, I’d like to get an early start.”

The mention of sleep brought a yawn to Shining’s mouth, his eyelids drooping as it pushed between his lips. “That sounds like a good idea.”

One Step at a Time

“Oh Celestia.”

Shining opened his eyes to a pink prince and white princess, Cadence mounted atop Celestia. Both ponies’ eyes were closed and mouths open as they moaned each other’s names.

“Oh Cadence, I’m so glad you left Shining.” Celestia paused to groan, her body rocking back and forth in time with Cadence’s thrusts. “I’ve been dreaming about this moment since you first talked about your sexual activity with me.”

Opening his mouth, Shining tried to shout, he tried to scream, tried to beg, but nothing came out. Why is this happening, what terrible thing did I do that Cadence would leave me?

“Celestia,” Cadence grunted. “Thank you for arranging for the dragons to kill Shining during our trip, I was always wanted to fuck like this but he never let me.” Pulling himself from Celestia, Cadence shot a load of white liquid over Celestia’s back before driving her still erect cock back into the princess.

Shining tried to move his legs, turn his head, close his eyes. Nothing worked. He was frozen in place, forced to watch. You can’t possibly mean this Cadence?

“Shining was never enough to sate my sexual desires.” Bending down to bite Celestia’s mane, Cadence pulled at it, jerking the princess’s neck backwards, evoking a scream from her lungs. “He was such a boring pony that Shining, Shining.”

“Shining.”

“Shining!”

Panting, Shining wrenched his eyes open, the sunlight that streamed into the tent blinding him. Cadence stood before him, worry written across her face. Grasping her by the shoulders he blurted, “I promise I’ll let you do anything you want to me, just don’t have me killed.”

Her expression shifting to confusion, Cadence bit at her lip, “What are you talking about?”

“You,” Shining twisted his neck, taking in his surroundings. “And Celestia,” Am I back in my tent? “You were, wait. We haven’t been to the dragons yet have we?”

Cadence chuckled, shaking her head. “Of course not Shining, we only left Ponyville yesterday. What gave you that idea?”

“Oh,” Bringing his hoof to the back of his head, Shining lowered his eyes to the ground. “Just a silly nightmare, nothing to worry about. What’s for breakfast?”

“Well, that was the reason I came to wake to you,” Cadence lifted her hoof, pointing over Shining’s head. “It seems we have a guest for breakfast.”

“Howdy.” A twang rang from behind.

Shining turned his head toward the voice. An orange coated stallion with a turquoise cap pulled over his ginger mane sat beside their fire, his eyes locked on their conversation. “What are you doing here?”

“Well there’s no need to be so rude,” The stallion said, his muzzle bobbing around as saliva flew from beneath his buck teeth. “My name’s Jack Rabbit, and I was on my way to deliver a letter last night when I saw your glowing tent. I thought to myself, Jack, that tent looks mighty big. The nice ponies staying there would be sure to let you spend the night with them.”

Cadence and Shining shared a look, the same question in both of their eyes. Turning back to Jack, Cadence stuttered, “Wh-why didn’t you ask us that last night?”

“Well you see.” Jack paused to snort before spitting at the ethereal fire. “I found myself staring at the most amazing sight, the two of you having a randy little root. So I thought to myself-”

“I don’t care what you thought.” Shining stood as he spoke, his voice deepening to a growl. “I want you to bounce out of here like the rabbit you are or I’ll throw you over the next hill myself.”

“Why would you do something so mean? I was-” Jack’s words stopped as his lips were slammed shut by a blue glow. His eyes widened as the color spread across his body until he was floating above the fire, encapsulated in blue.

“If I see you again Jack,” Shining spat the name from his mouth like a bad taste. “You won’t get one word out before I tear your tongue out. Now let’s see how well a rabbit bounces.” He swung Jack back and forth a few times before tossing him toward the nearest patch of trees, several hundred steps away.

Turning back to Cadence, he found shock written across her face. “Don’t you think you went a little too far? You might have just killed him.”

Shining sighed, his shoulders slumping. “Maybe. Just the thought of him watching you, I don’t know. It’s like something overcame me.” His eyes closed, head shaking as he lowered his muzzle to the ground.

To Shining’s surprise he felt Cadence lift his head and push her lips against his. “Well you’re the best guard a princess could hope for,” She said after she pulled away.

“You’re not angry at me?”

“Only a little.” Cadence wrapped her forelegs around Shining’s neck, choking him with a hug. “But really I’m relieved that you got rid of that creep. Do you want some chocolate to cheer you up?”

Shining shook his head. “My stomach is sick just from knowing that he was watching us.” Lighting his horn, he snuffed the fire out with a blue fist. “I’d rather get moving right away, put him far behind us.”

It was a little before noon by the time Shining’s stomach called for them to stop, the frequency of its growling almost rivaling their steps. “Do you think we’ll be able to have that chocolate now?”

Cadence smiled at his question, “I guess it couldn’t hurt to have a little.”

They shared four apple pastries between them, Shining sating the remainder of his appetite with a few pieces of chocolate before the pair returned to their travel.

The rest of their day was uneventful, the only sign of life on the plains flocks of birds soaring overhead. The animals’ shadows providing brief moments of cool relief before the sun returned to its duty of overheating their coats.

By nightfall it seemed they had made little ground, the mountains on the horizon still an unreachable distance away.

“I’ve been thinking about something,” Shining said as they stopped to set up camp, his eyes glued to the sky. “I was watching those birds today, they travel so quickly through the air.”

Cadence looked up from stretching their tent, “Please tell me you’re not thinking of something crazy.”

Tearing his gaze away from the dim horizon, Shining turned to Cadence, “It’s not crazy. You’ve got wings, why don’t we use them to fly?” He patted his belly, sucking in air. “I’m not too heavy, I’m sure you could carry me.”

The tent sized to her liking, Cadence stepped from its cover and put her forehooves on Shining’s shoulders. “Shining, I know your hooves are hurting from all this walking. Trust me, mine are hurting too, but I simply couldn’t carry you through the air, let alone carry myself for a full day.”

Breaking away from her grip, Shining made for the tent, his blue grasp lifting the flaps on Cadence’s saddlebags. “I’m sure Celestia has a spell to give a pony wings, just let me have a look.”

“Shining.” Cadence wrapped her forelegs around Shining, jerking him away from the bags, pages of the itinerary exploding into the air. “Even if there was a spell for that, I don’t think it would be right.” Breathing deeply, she closed her eyes, pulling all the scattered pages back into one pile. “Celestia planned our journey to last a specific length of time for a reason, and I think it’s so we can grow as ponies, together.”

“But the mountain,” Shining pointed out into the blackness. “It’s so far away, it’ll be months before we get there. We’ll be completely out of food by the end of this week.”

Flipping through the pages held in her magical grip, Cadence found the one she was looking for, “Celestia gave us a week to get to the mountain, we’ve got plenty of apple pies to last until then.”

Slumping in her grasp, Shining sighed, “You’re right, my hooves hurt so much I can barely think. I just need some rest.”

“Well then, let’s quickly eat before we go to sleep.”

The bright light of the morning greeted the pair with new energy, their aches barely noticeable as they continued to walk, the mountains growing with each step. The grass plains surrounding them slowly thinned out, brown replacing green, boulders replacing trees.

It was only four and a half days before they reached the base, Shining falling back onto his haunches as he stared up at the towering peaks. “They looked a lot smaller from Ponyville.”

Cadence held a hoof over her eyes as she peered at the sun overhead, “Well it seems to only be about noon, so why don’t we rest for the remainder of the day and start our climb tomorrow?”

Bouncing up from his slumped position, Shining smothered Cadence in a hug, “I think that’s a great idea.”

The couple spent the afternoon spread out on the magical mattress, hooves throbbing with a week’s worth of ache, the mountain’s shadow keeping them cool. By the time the stars were twinkling into view Cadence was up and awake, busying herself by reading Celestia’s plans for them.

Shining was content to nap until the smell of warm apples woke him, a wide smile on his muzzle as he joined Cadence by the fire.

“It looks like you’re feeling a lot better after your nap,” Cadence said as he sat, her horn glowing blue as she held two pairs of pies above similarly color flames. “Are you ready to climb the mountain tomorrow?”

Taking a moment to peer at the dark outline above, Shining returned his eyes to Cadence, his smile growing into a grin. “Almost, there’s just been one thing I’ve missed over these last few nights.”

Shaking her head and rolling her eyes, Cadence chuckled. “As much as I’d love to, a night of fun really takes the energy out of me, and I need all of it for tomorrow’s climb. So no.”

His smile shrinking, Shining climbed to his hooves again, turning his body side on to Cadence. “What am I supposed to do with this then?”

Upon sight of Shining’s erect, throbbing member, Cadence collapsed backward, her body shaking with laughter. “How, did, that, happen?” She spoke between bursts of giggles, the pies she was previously holding forgotten inside the fire.

Quickly rescuing the crispy pastries, Shining placed them on a nearby rock before answering, “After a few days without being, relieved, some strange things begin to appear in my dreams.”

Panting, Cadence sat up, her brow raised, “What kind of things?”

“You know,” Shining averted his eyes, a tinge of pink visible on his cheeks in the dim light. “Things about you, and food. Sometimes at the same time.”

Holding a hoof to her lips, Cadence resisted the urge to burst into laughter again. When the feeling eventually subsided she spoke, “I guess I can finish you off then, but then it’s dinner and straight to bed okay.”

Shining nodded eagerly.

The next morning Cadence awoke to the sounds of ringing and shouting, her eyelids snapping open as she recognized Shining’s voice. “Get out of here you monsters!” Jumping to her hooves, she glanced at the surroundings. Shining was outside the tent, surrounded by creatures she had never seen before.

Standing on two legs, they were covered in scales. Long, thin tails extended from their rears to balance their hunched over torsos. Small arms protruded from below their necks, three claws at the end of both.

One of them snarled in Cadence’s direction as she made for the tent’s doorway, its open mouth displaying a jagged array of teeth, yellow eyes bulging as its head tilted back.

Following the eyeline of the creature, Shining spotted Cadence standing inside the tent. “Don’t step outside,” He warned. Taking advantage of the distraction, one leapt toward Shining, jaw wide open.

Time slowed down for Cadence, her mouth opening to scream, horn lighting blue in attempt to save Shining. There’s not enough time, She thought, flinging her body forward in a hopeless effort.

A beam of sunlight encapsulated the lizard moments before its teeth impacted Shining’s back, the bright yellow rays suspending it in mid air. Every eye was on the creature as it disintegrated into dust, the grey powder forming a pile before Shining.

Mouth hanging open, Cadence heard herself whisper, “What was that?”

Her words broke the trance, the other monsters being pulled from the ground by similar beams and suffering identical fates.

Jaw slack with shock, Shining made his way back to the tent, stepping between knee high peaks of ash. He collapsed into Cadence’s waiting forelegs. Stroking his mane, Cadence listened to the sound of his heavy breathing, waiting until he spoke. “I’m so glad I woke up first today Cadence.”

“Tell me what happened,” She demanded, curiosity raising the volume of her voice above her intent. Wincing, she repeated the question softly, “I mean, could you tell me what happened, please?”

Pulling himself from Cadence’s grasp, Shining rubbed his horn, “Sure, but first I need something to eat.”

Seated by the fire, half an apple pie in his magical grasp and two more in his stomach, Shining finally spoke. “I was having the strangest dreams, I can’t remember what about, but it ended with me waking up to snarling. I opened my eyes and one of those things was standing right outside our tent, bashing its snout against the magic as if it couldn’t get in, so I got up and chased it away.”

“Then how did-” Cadence blurted before she could stop herself. Closing her eyes, she breathed out slowly, suppressing her urge to question. He’ll get there eventually. “Sorry, keep going.”

Seemingly ignorant of the interruption, Shining paused for a moment, eyes rolled into his head. Eventually he met Cadence’s eyes again, “As I said, I chased it away, unknowingly making a terrible mistake. When I turned back around two of them stood between me and the tent. Before I could fight them off another pair jumped down behind me, the four encircling me. So I shouted to try to scare them away.”

“That must have been when I woke up,” Cadence allowed herself to but in, satisfied with the story. “What do you think those rays of light were?”

Tearing away another quarter of his apple pie, Shining swallowed before speaking. “I thought they were something you did, but if they aren’t,” He stuffed the remainder of the pie between his lips, staring at the ground as he thought. “Maybe they’re Celestia’s doing?”

“Celestia? How could her magic even reach all this way?”

“I don’t know, but remember what she said, I’ll be watching over you, or something like that.” He ran a hoof through his mane, head shaking. “It doesn’t matter how she did it, what matters is when know she can protect us somehow. Hopefully we won’t need it.”

“Even if she can protect us somehow, I don’t like knowing that those monsters are watching us. Let’s try to get over this mountain as quickly as we can.” Cadence stood as she spoke, levitating her saddlebags onto her back. “Are you ready to leave?”

Shining nodded, dusting his hooves of crumbs before following Cadence’s lead, his half empty bags hanging lopsided over his withers.

Climbing the red mountain was slow going, the lack of a clearly defined trail forcing them to double back multiple times. The solid rock underneath provided firm footing, allowing them to traverse the mountain’s face with ease.

By mid-morning they stumbled across an opening in the wall of rock. “Cadence,” Shining exclaimed, bounding ahead with a new found energy. “This could be a way up.” Staring through the entrance his eyes found a long trail upward, its end hidden by an incline.

Arriving at the gap, Cadence found her eyes drawn to the dark ground underneath Shining, pointed imprints in the dirt. “Shining, get away from there. The ground is covered in tracks, most likely from those monsters.”

Glancing downward, Shining felt his heart leap for a moment before he returned his gaze to Cadence. “Come on Cadence, we’ve been walking round the mountain all day. This could be our only way up.”

“Or it could be a one way trail straight to our death. We’re not following them.” Cadence stood her ground a few steps away from the prints. “I don’t want to walk right into a pack of them and have to rely on Celestia’s help to stay alive.

Sighing, Shining closed his eyes for a moment before reopening them, features holding his best attempt at a pleading look. “Please Cadence, it’s either this or we spend the whole day walking around the mountain’s base getting nowhere.”

Cadence took a small step toward the trail, “You make it sound like this is the only path up the mountain.”

“For all we know it could be.” Holding one of his forehooves outstretched toward Cadence, Shining widened his eyes, blue irises quivering as he pouted. “Come on Cadence, I’ll be right by your side the whole way.”

Half-sighing, half-chuckling, she took the hoof offered, stepping onto the trail beside Shining. “I really do hope Celestia’s still watching.”

The well trodden track zig-zagged up the brown-red mountainside, sending Shining and Cadence between boulders, underneath rocky overhangs and through short, dim tunnels. For its apparent usage the trail appeared absent of life, the couple not even hearing a snarl until the sun disappeared behind the mountain.

“What was that?” Cadence stopped, swinging her eyes around their now dim surroundings, ears twitching, waiting for a sound.

Turning to face her, Shining tilted one of his ears up into the air, “I didn’t hear-” His words caught in his throat, eyes widening till his pupils were tiny black ships in a sea of white. “Cadence,” He held out a foreleg, “Come and give me a hug.”

“I don’t think thi-”

A snarl sounding from behind Cadence sent a jolt of shock from her tail to snout, exiting her lips as a scream. Jumping away from the dangerous sound, Cadence slammed into Shining, wrapping her hooves around him.

Ringing, followed by a burst of magic from Shining’s horn clipped the lizard’s neck, the green and grey scaled beast growling meekly before scampering off.

“Are you alright Cadence?” Shining said softly, lifting her muzzle from his neck. She nodded, rubbing her cheek along his. “Good, hopefully we’ll be alright now.” Shining felt Cadence’s movements stop.

The ring of magic filled the air once more, “Somehow I doubt it,” Cadence said, her body jolting as she sent a blue bolt from her horn.

A pained roar mixed with the sound of magical impact behind Shining. The lizard stumbling, falling face first into the dirt, its body motionless. Two more jumped from the surrounding rocks to take its place, one falling to another burst from Cadence, the other a ball of blue from Shining.

Turning back round, the couple’s eyes were met with more scales. Green and purple and red, four stood a few steps away, cautiously moving toward them.

“Cadence, the tent,” Shining grunted as he fended off a lizard’s charge with a bolt of blue, sending it cartwheeling back into its friends.

The question offput Cadence’s aim, her spell splintering a nearby rock, showering the lizards with red pebbles. “What would we do with a tent in a time like this?”

Summoning a barrier of blue before him, Shining met the next lizard’s charge head on, both pony and reptile bouncing back from each other, skidding through the dirt on their backs. Sliding to a halt beneath Cadence, Shining met her eyes, “I’ll explain once you’ve summoned it.”

“There better be a good reason for this,” Cadence said a she side-stepped the final charge. Lighting her horn, she summoned the ethereal construct around herself and Shining, the magic rippling as the lizard behind them slammed against the blue walls. “I think I understand.”

The pair sat close against each other as their tent repelled charge after charge from the lizards without faltering. Three of them eventually stumbling away, leaving one stunned, lying on the dirt.

Head nuzzled into Shining’s neck, Cadence breathed softly as Shining stroked her mane. When the last lizard finally struggled to its feet and followed the rest, she finally broke the silence, “It seems this tent does more than keep us cozy at night, but how did you know it would protect us?”

“I told you earlier, when I saw those things this morning one of them was trying to get inside the tent, but it seemed like it couldn’t. I assumed Celestia put some kind of protective magic into the spell.”

“I guess she really meant it when she said she’d protect us.” Cadence stared up at the sky, cloudless and blue, vacant of the sun. “So are we just going to cower inside this tent all day?”

Slipping himself from underneath Cadence, Shining stepped around the tent’s border, extending their space with his hooves, “Just until it feels safe to go outside.” Finished with his task, he turned back to her, smile on his face eyes wide. “Now what is there to eat?”

Cadence shrugged her saddlebags onto the dirt before pulling a crumpled basket from one pocket. “There’s still a few pies left, but they’re getting a little old.” Lifting one out, she bit into it and chewed slowly. “Still edible.”

Three were grasped by Shining’s magic and shoved down his gullet before Cadence could utter another word. He wiped the crumbs from his muzzle before speaking, “Now that food’s taken care of, what are we going to do till we’re ready to leave?” Blue eyes narrowed lowered as he spoke, a smile spreading across his lips.

Blowing out a breath, Cadence shook her head, “Shining, as much as you want to do it, being surrounded by killer lizards makes me a little too uncomfortable.” She patted the dirt beside her, “Why don’t you just come sit beside with me?”

His smile shrinking, Shining cuddled close to Cadence, crossing his neck over hers, “What are going to do then?”

Cadence touched a hoof to her lips for a moment, thinking before lighting her horn, “Why don’t we have a little look at where we are going?” Pages fluttered the air as Cadence brought the itinerary to hover before them. Flipping through the pages raised her brow, “It seems like the pages got a little out of order when you scattered them.”

His cheeks warming with red, Shining quickly split the pile of paper with his magic, taking half for himself. “Why don’t I help you sort them then?”

Their silence was only broken by the rustling of pages as the pair searched through their stacks, Cadence sorting hers into separate piles. Shining’s haphazard, one stack shuffling causing him to lose his place more than once.

Eventually Shining stopped sorting for a few moments, one particular page creasing his brow as he read it. “Cadence?” He levitated the page over her own. “This is the page that details where we need to go to get to the Dragon Lands right?”

Cadence’s eyes flicked over the pages, nodding at key words, “Yes, why do you ask?”

“There maybe one thing you missed when you read it.” Shuffling closer to her, Shining pointed his hoof to a paragraph. “It says here we are not to climb the mountain, there’s even a set of instructions of how to navigate round the base.”

Pushing Shining’s foreleg aside, Cadence squinted as she read the text, “I’m sure it never, oh.” Her muzzle held an apologetic smile, “I guess this mess we’re in is all my fault then.”

Shaking his head, Shining chuckled. “I think it’s a both of our faults. If I hadn’t have insisted on following this trail we would’ve eventually found our way round the mountain.” The pair sighed simultaneously, pink snout rubbing against white.

Cadence pulled away from the touch first, her eyes glazing over with thought. “As great as it is to figure out where we went wrong, we still need to find a way out of here. Do you think it’d be safe to head down the mountain now?”

“I’ll go check,” Shining said as he stood and paced toward the tent’s entrance. The instant his hoof stepped out a roar erupted from behind a nearby boulder followed by a pair of charging lizards. Retreating back inside, he winced as the two creatures bounced off the tent before bounding away. “Looks like we’ll be here a little longer.”

They huddled together inside the tent, breathing in time as brightness slowly faded from the sky. Shining’s neck and foreleg were draped over Cadence’s withers, her head tucked into his chest.
“Do you think we should check again?” Cadence whispered, words mixed with the sound of Shining stroking her mane.

“I’ll go.” Gently, Shining slid her head from his hoof and stood before slowly stepping toward the exit.

Thud! The ground sounded with cracks from the impact, Shining quickly spinning to find a cloud of dust behind a startled Cadence. He shot a wall of magic toward the brown-red fog, clearing the dust to reveal a sky-blue coated pony splayed across the ground.

The intruder rolled onto its back, brushing short locks of white hair aside with a hoof. “What was that for?” She coughed, glaring at Shining.

Gritting his teeth, Shining dashed across the offering his hoof to help, “Sorry about that, my horn’s a little jumpy from seeing lizards all day.”

Ignoring the offer, she pushed herself up, extending her wings completely before folding them to her sides. A small smile touched her lips, “I can understand that feeling.” Looking over her body, the mare flicked dust from her tail before turning back to Shining. “What I want to know is why you two are here?”

“We may have taken a wrong turn,” Shining said, exchanging a glance with Cadence as she joined them. “How did you find us? This mountain is like a maze.”

Pausing for a moment, the mare stared at Shining, adjusting her wings before answering, “From up in the air this tent of yours is like a beacon in the mountain’s shadow, hard to miss.”

Cadence looked past the mare at the ethereal fabric behind, “I guess it is a little obvious. Anyway,” She shook her head. “If you could help us off this mountain it’d be a great help.”

“The fastest way would be to go back the way you came, but I can’t guarantee you’ll make it back alive. It’s hard to believe you two made it this far.” She twisted her neck, gazing back up the mountain side. “If you want to stay alive it’ll be best if you came back to the base with me, we can work out a way to get you off the mountain from there.”

Sky-blue wings snapped out as she stepped back from Shining and Cadence, testing the air with a few flaps before leaving the ground completely, hovering a few feet above them. “Just follow me,” She called down at them.

“Wait,” Shining held up his hoof. “Couldn’t we walk? I’m lacking in the flight department.”

A chuckle briefly tickled the blue mare’s body, smile spreading her muzzle, “You’ll never make it to the base without wings.” A stern expression swallowed the joy on her face as quickly as it had come. “You partner has wings doesn’t she? She can carry you.”

“Well,” Cadence pushed herself into the air and floated beside the mare. Cadence’s limbs and belly looked plump next to the scrawny pegasus. “I’m not exactly the strongest flier myself, if I could carry Shining we would have flown out of here by now.”

Sighing, the mare dropped back to the ground, “I’ll carry him myself then.” Wrapping her her forelegs around Shining’s belly, she straddled his back while maintaining a firm grip. A few flaps and Shining’s hooves were off the ground, the pegasus lifting him as if he were a doll. “Let’s go.”

The air beneath her wings roared as she took off, the glowing tent shrinking underneath Shining. His stomach lurched, lips clamped tight, every organ in his body fighting to escape. The sun appeared from behind the mountain as they rose, its warm embrace easing Shining’s nerves.

Shining watched the glowing square below them wink out, the pink dot that was Cadence bobbing slowly toward them, two pairs of saddlebags on her back. They continued their climb until they were higher than the mountain itself, the clouds above seeming within reach.

Without a word the mare dove forward, sending another wave of nausea through Shining’s body as his insides were left behind, lips peeled back and a breath forced into his lungs.

Finally regaining his senses, Shining’s eyes focused on the object looming before them. “Don’t you think you should slow down?” He shouted. “We’re going to hit the mountain!”

Either his words were whipped away in the wind of the mare chose not to hear them, as she continued toward the massive red rock. Shining’s eyes closed on instinct, his body not wanting to witness its own death.

His stomach lurched again and the overpowering wind halted, the dirt’s kiss against his hooves the sweetest chocolate they’d ever tasted. A breath he couldn’t recall holding escaped his lungs, relief washing over his body, “I’m never flying again.”

Shining had regained his composure by the time a panting Cadence landed with the blue mare. She stumbled across to him, wrapping her hooves round his neck, pressing her warm lips against his. “I thought I’d lost the two of you for a second, until she came to find me.” Releasing her grip on Shining, Cadence turned to the mare, dipping her head slightly, “Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it,” The pegasus muttered before turning away. “Follow me, I’ll take you to the captain and he’ll organize a way to get you past this mountain.”

Obedient, Shining and Cadence trailed her, their eyes widening at the buildings ahead. A tall stone tower stood as the centerpiece, its bricks the same red as the mountain. Like a web streets spread out from it, stack of similarly styled buildings in between.

“What is this place?” Cadence breathed, eyes tracing the intricately carved patterns on the walls of the closest building, stories forever branded in stone. “It’s beautiful.”

“The buildings are, but the ponies who live here now aren’t.” The mare spoke as they walked between two scenes, on one side an army of pegasi fought off a monstrous dragon, the other depicted a great storm. “This used to be a thriving pegasus town, but that was almost a century ago. Now it’s just a run down military base.”

“What happened?”

“Dragons.” The mare stopped and pointed to the petrified battle that raged beside them. “That is the last picture that was carved before this mountain top became a war zone and all the pegasi living here had to leave. Now that the princess has made peace with the dragons this base has little use. It’s just a place for idlers to live.” Her face formed as grimace as she turned away, continuing to walk toward the central tower.

Following, Shining and Cadence’s minds took steps through history, a great wedding, a monstrous wave, a pegasus and his gleaming sword, each building they passed hinted at events long forgotten.

A half-shattered wooden door hung loosely at the tower’s entrance, the blue mare’s echoing knock against wood receiving no response. She shook her head and muttered, “He’s probably drunk himself to sleep again.”

Fallen and cracked stone bricks made for traps on the floor as they stepped inside, one causing Cadence to jump as she kicked it. “Ouch!”

The tower’s lower floor held a dim room lit only by a candle. An ornate stone desk took residence in the centre, corners split and chunks of its white stone littered across the surface. Papers were scattered across the desk and the floor surrounding it. Torn and crumpled, they were stained by every shade of brown imaginable.

The mare skirted round the desk’s edge, shaking her head at the sight on the other side, “Typical.”

Moving round the desk for a better view, Shining and Cadence’s jaws dropped. A straw-yellow coated stallion was cuddled round a slightly darker colored mare, both showing no signs of consciousness. The sleeping mare was cuddling a wooden tankard in her forelegs, most of the liquid spilled on the stone before her.

Shining and Cadence’s eyes took none of this in, instead they were focused on the slumbering couples groins. The pink-yellow base of the stallion’s length was clearly visible, the rest still inside the mare. His seed was splattered across her rear, a thin film covering clumps of fur that seemed to be matted with a similar substance.

The blue mare turned away, “You won’t be talking to the captain today. You’ll have to stay the night.” She led them back out into the cooling afternoon, the sun retreating toward the horizon.

“Shouldn’t we do something about them?” Cadence questioned as they stepped outside. “Report them for, something.”

Hah,” The mare chuckled, a strained sound. “Who am I supposed to report the highest ranking pony here to?” A sigh swallowed the laughter, the sadness tainting her voice. “They’re all like that here, and there’s nothing I can do to change it.”

“Could you at least show us where we could stay overnight then?”

“Just pick a house,” The pegasus swept her foreleg over the buildings. “No one lives in them. They barely leave the tavern.” A soft growl sounded from her stomach. “Do you want something to eat?”

Shining’s stomach responded with a roar, “Always.”

Behind the tower squatted a one-story wooden tavern, the only building not made of stone in the town. The cracks between its fastened shutters flickered with light, the dull drone of voices reverberating through the walls. A sign hung above the door, Barracks was scratched out and the words A Partner’s Drink poorly carvedunderneath.

The noise and stench caught them full in the face as they entered, a wall that mixed the smell of sweat with squeals of pleasure, spilled cider with muffled grunts. The interior was a sight that stopped Shining and Cadence in their tracks.

Countless wooden tables were jampacked with a rainbow of pegasi, each one partnered up, whether it was mare and stallion, mare and mare or stallion and stallion. They were all kissing, stroking, pleasuring each other. Pink and brown and sandy yellow genitalia were exposed wherever they looked.

The blue mare led them past the panting tangles of limbs, over-eager moaning and shiny, sweat-coated bodies. A small table in the corner lay vacant, a wall made of loosely nailed together planks cutting it off from the remainder of the room.

Sliding into the cramped space across from the pegasus, Cadence leant over the table, a well polished slab of varnished oak. “Is it always like this in here?” She whispered.

“Yes,” The mare sighed, pounding her hoof against the wood before her. “All they do is drink and fuck, day and night. It’s a disgrace to what this place used to be.”

“I see you brought friends with you today Skylight, have you finally found a partner, or two?” The voice caught Shining and Cadence’s attention, their eyes finding a squat azure-coated pegasus, a splash of some liquid dripping from her soft pink mane.

Skylight eyed her with contempt, “They’re not here for that, I found them on the mountainside. They’ll be gone by tomorrow, or whenever the captain wakes up. Can we just have something to drink and a few loaves of bread?”

“Anything for you cute thing,” The pink-maned mare cooed, hoof lifting as if to stroke Skylight’s mane, but never daring to get within touching distance. “As for you two,” She turned to Shining and Cadence, holding them with a sultry stare. “Have a good night.” Her head tilted with a wink before she walked off, pink tail flicking over her ample rump as it swayed.

Silence fell across the table, Cadence chewing her lip as she formulated a question. Eventually she spoke, “If you don’t mind me asking, why are you so, negative. These ponies seem nice enough, albeit a little, open.”

Skylight looked up, holding Cadence’s eyes with her own for a moment before speaking, “They are more than welcoming, but that is the problem. This is supposed to be an outpost, not a whore house. The way the give each other pleasure like it’s as simple as a few words disgusts me.”

“Oh.” Cadence shrunk back into her mind, gaze wandering the room as she thought. The two stallions at the nearest table climbed off of each other and stumbled to another, a lone white pegasus quickly securing the space for himself. She turned back to Skylight, “Why don’t you just leave then? It doesn’t seem like there’s anything going on here. I’m sure no one would notice if you left and started a new life somewhere else.”

“I’ve thought about that-”

“Here’s the food and drinks you ordered,” The pink-maned pegasus butted in, her spread wings depositing three tankards and a wooden plate stacked with bread on the table. “Have a wonderful night.” She waved one final time before leaving, the white pegasus closest to them calling her over.

Grasping one of the wooden tankards with her wing, Skylight took a swing. “Like I was saying, I’ve thought about leaving, but I can’t. I’m the only pony here who would even notice if the dragons tried to attack Equestria. The only one who would get a message to the princess in time. They need me here.”

“Skylight,” Cadence broke a piece of bread from a loaf with her magic, nibbling at it as she spoke, ignoring the violent crunching as Shining devoured multiple loaves. “Some mountain top in the middle of nowhere isn’t the best place to be protecting Equestria from dragons.”

“It’s directly between the Dragon Lands and Cater-”

Cadence pressed a hoof to Skylight’s muzzle, the pegasus’s baby-blue eyes widening briefly, the corners of her jaw clenching for a moment before her features calmed. “I think there’s one place that’s better. The Dragon Lands themselves.”

Pulling Cadence’s foreleg away from her snout, Skylight narrowed her eyes. “Repeat that, you can’t have possibly said what I thought.”

“The Dragon Lands,” Cadence leant across the table. “That’s where we are going, why don’t you come with us? It’d be the perfect place to stop an invasion if there ever was one.”

Skylight sighed, “As good as my combat abilities are, I could never fight off a whole dragon invasion myself.”

Eyes closing as she chuckled, Cadence waved away Skylight’s answer with a hoof. “That’s not what I meant. You could talk the dragons out of invading before they even leave, you could live with them.”

The suggestion was answered by silence, Skylight’s jaw slack as her eyes drilled into Cadence, a blue and white statue. Shining pulled Cadence back from her position hunched over the table, her gaze swinging round to meet him.

“Cadence, don’t you think that’s a bit of a strange idea, how do you even know the dragons would agree to a pony living among them,” Shining said, Skylight nodding along with each word.

“I agree, the dragons would rather eat-”

“Drink for you Skylight,” A voice cut her off. Turning, they found the pink-maned mare sliding a rainbow in a glass across the table toward Skylight. “It’s from the cutie over there,” A blue hoof directed them to the nearest table, where the lonely white pegasus still sat, one of his broad wings lifting to wave.

Skylight sighed, shaking her head, “When will he stop?”

The pink-maned mare’s eyes narrowed, her head tilting to the side as she spoke, “When you give him a chance.” With a giggle she stalked away, dragging her tail around the blushing white stallion as she stepped past him. Pushing away the colorful drink, Skylight took another swig from her tankard.

“Why don’t you go over and talk to him?” Cadence questioned, and encouraging smile on her face.

Pushing a hoof through her short mane, Skylight allowed a deep breath to escape her lungs. “He’s just like the rest of them, he wants a body to satisfy his cravings, nothing more.”

Cadence stole a glance at the white stallion sitting a table away, his head hung low, hooves fondling the fringe of his blue mane. “I don’t know about that. He looks distraught, like he really likes you.” Pulling her eyes away from the white pegasus, Cadence held Skylight’s gaze, “How long has he been trying to win you over?”

“A few months, he started a week after he was drafted here.”

Placing her hooves on the table, Cadence leant over the wood, her muzzle close to Skylight’s. “A few months? And you haven’t even said hello?” She shook her head, voice raising, “Haven’t you thought that maybe he wants something more than just your body?”

“You don’t understand, the only reason a pony comes to this base anymore is to mess around,” Skylight shuffled out from the corner table, finishing her drink as she stood, “And that kind of pony isn’t one I want to know.”

A blue glow stopped Skylight as she made to leave, Cadence half-standing as she pulled the pegasus back to face her, “If this is a base for lazy ponies, why did you come here?”

Ignoring the question, Skylight stormed away, the slam of the tavern door drowned out by the surrounding sounds of pleasure as she stepped out into the evening.

Shining draped his foreleg around Cadence as she sunk back to the floor, the comforting smile on his face meeting her crestfallen expression. “Do you think she still wants the drink?” He joked.

After a moment, a chuckle burst through Cadence’s lips, a grin spreading across her muzzle, “I’m sure she won’t mind.” Sighing, she allowed her head to rest against Shining’s neck, mind a churning cauldron of thoughts.

The familiar sound of Shining’s deep gulping as he down the glass helped sooth her until she was thrown off his spasming body. Shaking her head, she turned to find a red-faced Shining, hooves fanning the rainbow stained tongue that hung from his mouth. “Hot.”

Cadence giggled, “At least I can see why she refused the drink, but why was she so against the idea of talking to that stallion.” Laying her head on the table, Cadence’s smile wilted. “Why am I so terrible at this kind of thing?”

”Don’t say that Cadence, you’re amazing at this, just look at what you did for Rose and Mac.”

“You’re right,” Cadence said as she stood, eyes full of determination. “And I think I know exactly what I can do to cheer Skylight up.”

Shining watched as she strolled across the room and bumped into the white pegasus by what seemed to be an accident. A short conversation later the pair were walking back toward him, a smile on Cadence’s muzzle, a shaky grin and nervous eyes on the pegasus’s face.

A pink hoof directed Shining’s eyes to the pegasus’s chest, “Shining, this is Cloud Dancer,” Cadence’s hoof pointed to Shining, “And Cloud Dancer, this is Shining.”

“Hey,” Cloud meekly lifted his wing in a wave, eyes looking down at Shining’s neck.

“Why don’t you take a seat Cloud,” As she spoke, Cadence slid in beside Shining. “There’s something I want to discuss with you.”

Cloud’s mouth opened, his tongue hesitating for a moment before allowing words to escape, “If, if it’s about Skylight then I’m, uh, I’m sorry, I just can’t stop thinking about her. Ever since I first arrived at this camp she’s filled my dreams, but whenever I try to talk with her she just ignores me.” Running a hoof through his blue mane, he shook his head. “I can understand if she’s had enough, I’ll just leave her alone.”

“That’s completely the opposite of what I wanted to ask,” Cadence brought a hoof to her muzzle, trying to suppress her gleeful grin. “I want to set the two of you up on a date.”

Eyes bugging out, Cloud sat straight up, his jaw hanging loose as he whispered, “You mean you want me to spend time with her?” His pupils rolled backward, eyelids closing as he slumped against the table.

Lighting his horn, Shining shook the fallen pegasus and received no response but a drop of saliva falling from his mouth onto the table. “Don’t you think you should’ve told him she has no idea about this first?”

Cadence smiled guiltily, “I guess, but then he wouldn’t be as eager to accept.”

Lifting the stallion back into sitting position, Shining glanced sideways at Cadence, “Looking at how he handled this, I think he’d be eager to do anything related to her. How do you plan on convincing Skylight to do this anyway?”

“I don’t,” Cadence giggled, reaching a hoof across the table to shake Cloud. “Are you alright?” Her voice was devoid of its previous humour, her words carrying a serious tone.

His eyelids fluttering open, Cloud shook his head, eyes in a frenzy as the took in his surroundings. “What happened?” Neck drooping, he sighed. “I blacked out again didn’t I?”

“Again?” Cadence chewed at her lip, Please don’t say this is something that happens often. “This hasn’t happened before has it?”

Cloud chuckled, a weak smile on his muzzle, “It happens whenever I get close to her. I think it might be the reason she ignores me.”

Oh poor, poor Cloud, Cadence sighed. “She doesn’t know this happens right?”

“Uh,” Burying his gaze into the table, Cloud nodded slowly. “I accidentally woke her up one time when I fell on her. She’s always avoided me since.”

Cadence’s breath caught in her throat, “You collapsed on top of her while she was sleeping?” Maybe he is just a creep like Skylight said? “What were you doing?”

Holding his hooves up, Cloud shook his head, “No, it’s not like that.” He lowered his eyes to the table to a moment, rubbing a hoof against his head. Eventually he spoke, “It was my first day here, she was the pony assigned to showing me round the base. As soon as I saw her, i don’t know, I felt something inside me. The same kind of feeling I felt when I first saw a guard and knew that was what I wanted to be.”

Meeting Shining’s eye, Cadence smiled, a warmth growing in her chest, “I know what you mean. That still doesn’t explain how you ended up collapsing on her as she slept.”

“Oh, yeah. That was an embarrassment.” Cloud traced a seemingly random pattern across the table with his hoof as he spoke. “When I saw her, I knew I’d have to do something big to win her over. So I picked an idea from one of my favourite books, I was supposed to be placing a clue beside her bed for a treasure hunt I had planned, but it all went wrong.”

His white muzzle twisted in a grimace as the memory came back in full, a haunting nightmare he could never escape. “I ended up passed out on her bed beside her, a note reading The first step to love lies behind the ponies who watch you day and night, in my mouth. So she threw me outside, and I’ve been trying to win her over with drinks ever since.”

“You mean this drink?” Shining held up the half empty rainbow stained glass with his magic. “You really should taste a drink before you order it for someone, this thing is a little spicy.”

Taking the drink from the air with his wing, Cloud brought it to his lips, his white cheeks exploding with red as he sipped. Panting, he pushed the glass to the side, “I always thought the most expensive drink on the menu would be the best, they say it’s pure rainbow.”

Cadence looked from Shining to Cloud before rolling her eyes, “Enough talk about the drink, do you want to go on a date with Skylight?”

Pushing both hooves against the table, Cloud steadied himself, “Does she really want to spend time with me?” His cheeks bulged as he smiled, bright blue eyes shimmering with joy.

“Well, uh,” Cadence shared a look with Shining, his disapproving gaze difficult to hold. Maybe she doesn’t yet but, “I’m sure she will.”

The air left Cloud’s lungs as the words left Cadence's mouth, the pegasus falling face first toward the table once again. Shining’s hooves stopped him, slowly lowering to rest, “Before he can even think about going on a date he needs to fix this problem first.”

“But we’re leaving tomorrow, something like this could take weeks, maybe months to overcome.” Cadence gritted her teeth, the weight of her self-induced problem heavy on her shoulders.

“You’ve got until tomorrow to decide what you want to do then.” Shining said softly, “I know you’ll make the right decision. Until then, why don’t you go talk to Skylight? You’ll have trouble setting up a date if you’re on bad terms with her. I’ll stay here and watch over Cloud as he sleeps.”

A small smile pushed its way onto Cadence’s lips as she nuzzled Shining’s neck, “Thank you, you always know how to comfort me. I hope Skylight isn’t still angry with me.” Kissing him goodbye, she stood and stepped toward the door, the sounds of pleasure that filled the room drowning out her hoofsteps.

The wind caught Cadence’s mane as she exited the tavern, whipping strands of hair over her face. Pushing it back, she scanned the surrounding buildings, stone walls dimly lit by sparsely placed lanterns. Where would she go?

She poked her head into a few of the ancient homes, each room proving just as empty as Skylight had said. Several loops of the town left her with more lifeless sights. If she isn’t inside these buildings, maybe I’ll be able to see her from up in the air?

Extending her wings, Cadence stretched out the slight ache from her previous flight. She looped around the tower as she ascended into the air, eyes searching the sky for any signs of a sky-blue pegasus.

Her wings were already hurting by the time she was level with the tower’s rooftop, I’ll just rest up there, I’ll be able to see everything.

“I knew you’d come looking for me,” The voice startled Cadence, her wings snapping shut, two legs catching her around the belly before she fell. Twisting her head, Cadence caught the white of Skylight’s mane and the curve of her snout.

“Sorry for being so forward earlier,” Cadence said once she was safe, hooves against the hard tiles of the tower’s rooftop. “I get a little too passionate about matters of other ponies’ love sometimes.”

Skylight met Cadence’s eyes for a moment before looking away, the stars winking into view above holding her attention, “If you just came to apologise, then thank you, but don’t even think about trying to convince me to date that stallion.”

“He’s really not b-” Cadence bit back her response, No, I need to come at this from her side. “I know he must seem like a creep after what he did to you.”

Blue eyelids perked up, Skylight lowering her gaze to meet Cadence’s once again, “You know about that?”

“Mmmhmm, I talked to Cloud after you left-”

“Cloud?”

“He’s the stallion who fell on you,” Skylight nodded. “Anyway, about what happened between you two. He explained it all and it sounds like an accident.”

“An accident?” A breath burst from Skylight’s nostrils, her lips curling into a grimace. “How can walking into someone’s room and collapsing on top of them be an accident?”

Cadence held up her hooves, “I know it may seem that way, but if you hear it from his point of view you’ll understand why he was there and why-” She almost said Why you should go on a date with him, but held her tongue.

“Why what?”

“Why, uh,” Running a hoof through her hair, Cadence groaned, I just have to say it. “Why you should give him another chance.” A pink hoof plugged Skylight’s mouth before she could respond. “Please don’t fly off again, you’ll understand once you’ve heard it.”

Shoulders slumping, Skylight sighed, “Fine, but this better be worth it.”

A smile filled Cadence’s muzzle, “Thank you, I promise you’ll think differently of Cloud once you’ve heard this.”

Skylight’s expression remained hard as she listened to the story. When Cadence had finally finished, Skylight spoke, “I can see how I misunderstood his intentions, but why should any of this make me want to spend time with this stallion? Why didn’t he just talk to me when he first arrived?”

Gasping, Cadence jaw dropped, “His idea was so cute though, don’t you find that at least a little romantic?”

“Romance,” Skylight stuck out her tongue. “Those books always made me sick. I chose the military to get away from all that, but wherever I run it follows me.”

“If you don’t want romance, what do you want from life then?”

A scoff burst from Skylight’s lips, followed by a chuckle, “I don’t know what world you’ve been living in, but not everyone is obsessed with love as you are. Some just want to fly.” Her lips spread wide as she stared out into the starry sky, blue wings twitching.

Cadence jaw hung open for a moment, her thoughts rushing as she processed Skylight’s words. “So you never want to be with anyone?” She said eventually.

Returning her eyes to Cadence’s, Skylight pushed a heavy breath from her lungs, “I wouldn’t mind it, but I don’t want a stallion whose idea of a good time is a treasure hunt. I want someone who can fly, and fly fast.”

“I guess I understand,” Cadence chewed at her lip, It doesn’t look good for Cloud. “So you don’t want to go on a date with Cloud then?”

Skylight shook her head, “Not if you’re the one asking. Tell him to ask me himself, then I’ll consider it.” With that she sprung from her hind legs, flipping backwards and rotating her body to dive from the tower top. Wind caught her wings on the way down, sending the blue dot speeding upward to meet the moon.

This is going to be impossible. Cadence took a deep breath before allowing herself to fall over the rooftop’s edge, gliding in a spiral until her hooves touched the ground. The tavern was just as hot and sweaty as she had left it, Shining still sitting in the corner with a now awake Cloud.

“So did you manage to convince her?” Shining asked as Cadence sat, his muzzle stained with patches of brown.

“Well,” Cadence met Cloud’s onlooking gaze with a smile. “I managed to convince her to give you a chance Cloud.”

White eyelids fluttered as Cloud blinked, his face creasing with confusion. “I thought-”

“I know I said it was a sure thing, but I may have stretched the truth a little, but she did say she’ll go on a date if you ask her yourself, maybe”

Cloud’s eyes dropped to the table as Cadence’s words entered his ears, “How could I ever talk to Skylight if just thinking about her makes me collapse?”

Bringing a hoof to her chin, Cadence shared a pondering stare with the table until she eventually sighed, “To be honest, I don’t know. I’ve never dealt with love where both ponies don’t fit together perfectly.”

“Why don’t we set up some drills for him?” Shining suggested, pulling their attention toward him.

“What do you mean?”

“We could set up some practice for Cloud before he has a go at the real thing. I could pretend to be Skylight, and you can help Cloud talk to me.” Shining locked his eyes with the pegasus sitting across from him. “Okay, I’m Skylight, what would you say to me?”

Cloud averted his eyes, taking great interest in the plain wood wall beside him. “Thanks for trying to help, Shining right?” A dark blue mane jumped as Shining nodded. “As much as I try to pretend you’re Skylight, I would never be able to replicate that sensation I feel when I see her, that spark inside me.”

“Ahh,” Shining met Cadence’s eyes, the couple sharing a smile. “I understand.” Leaning back, he stared at the ceiling, raking his thoughts for further ideas. “Cadence!” He exclaimed after some time startling the pony in question. She coughed at a peice of bread that slipped down her throat as Shining continued to speak. “Do you still know that shape-shifting spell?”

Swallowing hard, Cadence gasped, “Oh my Shining. Yes I know which one, just give me a moment.” After rubbing her neck for some time, Cadence finally lit her horn. “I haven’t perfected this spell yet, Celestia was teaching it to me just before I left. Now, Skylight.”

Blue encompassed Shining’s head, his feature twisting and coat darkening, the blue from his mane flooding into his face, leaving the hair a snowy white. The hard edges of his snout softened, forming a feminine curve. His mane shifted, the flick round his neck curving back to protrude behind him. Lashes lengthed and his eyes widened, a tint of pink glowing on his sky-blue cheeks.

“I thought you said you didn’t know how to transform a stallion into a mare,” Shining’s voice was unchanged, a strange baritone coming from Skylight’s lips.

“As you can hear, it’s not perfect. All I can do so far is visuals.” Cadence grinned, her eyelids lowering. “But hopefully with some more practice I’ll be able to perform a true transformation on you Shining.”

Biting his lip, Shining’s lips curved in a soft smile, “We shouldn’t get distracted, this is all for Cloud after all.” Turning to Cloud, Shining found the pegasus face down on the table, “It looks like we found a way to drill him.”

Cadence head fell, shoulders slumping in a sigh, “We can’t have him falling asleep, constantly.” A ring filled the air as she grasped the slumbering pegasus in her magic and shook his body softly.

“Huh,” Soft golden eyes flashed below white lids as Cloud woke, his head swaying as the ponies before him came into focus. “Skylight?” A heavy breath burst from his mouth, eyes crossing as his muzzle fell toward the table.

“Cloud,” Cadence caught the pegasus with a stern word and strong grasp before he collapsed again. “If you keep falling asleep like this you’ll never get close to Skylight, let alone go on a date with her. Now look at her, focus on keeping yourself upright.”

“B-but,” Cloud stuttered, his eyes bursting from their sockets as he took in the view of Shining’s altered features. “S-Skylight, why are you here?”

Shining chuckled, the pitch of his voice dropping Cloud’s jaw, “Cloud, I’m not Skylight, Cadence just changed my face so we could practice.”

Nodding slowly, Cloud breathed in and out, “Okay, I just need to focus on not collapsing.” His chest filled and emptied as he stared at Shining, sweat beading on his brow. Forelegs against the floor held his body upright. Like twigs propping up a boulder they snapped, his snout bouncing off the table.

The hours flew by as Cadence coached Cloud, the time between each collapse growing until he managed to work up the courage to utter one word before fainting, “Hello.”

“Good,” Cadence clapped her hooves together as she roused Cloud with her magic. “I can already see you’re getting better.” A yawn punctuated her sentence, “And with that I guess we’ll call it a night. Meet us by the tower tomorrow morning Cloud, it’ll be nice to practice somewhere that isn’t hot and filled with noise.” She stood with Shining, the pair waving back at Cloud before stepping away.

Cloud’s fringe fell over his eyes as he nodded, a small smile on his muzzle, “Thank you for all your help,” He called after the couple, his words swallowed by the never-ending sea of grunts and groans that filled the tavern before they reached them.

Relief escaped Shining’s lungs as he stepped into the brisk night air, “I don’t know how much more I can take of Cloud staring at me. It’s weird enough having you make me look like a mare, but him looking at me for hours, I don’t know how you do it Cadence.”

Stepping down the street, Cadence swished her tail from side to side, the movement of her rear capturing Shining’s eyes, “It truly is a hard life being beautiful,” Her voice carrying a mock-posh accent, Cadence overexaggerated a sigh. “I have to deal with the attention of dozens of stallions, but I manage.”

“What stallions,” Shining jumped to attention, his eyes darting around their dim surroundings. “I’ll make sure they never look your way again.”

Cadence giggled, knocking Shining off balance with a soft push of her hoof, “I was joking silly, I’m for your eyes only.” Leaning into him, she nuzzled the underside of his neck with her cheek, purring.

“And my eyes are only for you,” His nostrils resting in her hair, Shining took a deep breath, the familiar scent of Cadence’s hair sending a shiver down his spine. “Now where are we going to stay tonight?”

Pulling away from his touch, Cadence ran her eyes up the street, “Well Skylight said all the house are empty, so why don’t we just go with that one,” A pink hoof pointed toward the closest wall of stone, two ponies standing beneath a gargantuan tree carved into the cracked slab.

Their exploration of the interior was cut short by a wall of darkness, Cadence lighting her horn to reveal the remainder of the first room. It was completely empty but for a bench hewn into the far wall, a vast expanse that gave them freedom to lay their mattress.

“Do you really think we need a fire?” Cadence questioned as Shining formed ethereal flames from nothing. “It’s already quite warm in here.”

“I’m sure it will get colder, I don’t want to get up in the middle of the night to start one.” Tongues of blue licked at Shining’s hooves as he held them over the flames, the soft warmth like a mother’s kiss, willing him to sleep.

“You don’t know what you’re missing out on Shining,” Cadence’s breath right into his ear caused Shining to jump, eliciting a giggle from her. “A cold night’s a perfect excuse to cuddle close, rub against each other in attempt to stay warm.” She wrapped her forelegs around his neck, pinching his ear between her lips.

Shivering from the sensual chill, Shining snuffed the fire out, the only light in the room a dull blue emanating from the mattress. He felt Cadence pulling him backward, her hooves tugging at his chest, the soft glow sinking beneath their weight as they fell onto it, his hooves on either side of her, their breath mingling.

The embrace of her lips on his was warm and wet, Shining’s one sensation of Cadence’s touch in the surrounding darkness. His forelegs looped around her back, scooping her from the bed and leaning backward, her body now on top of his.

A breath burst from his mouth as she pulled away, desire pushing his lips upward to grasp at the empty air where her mouth once lay. A prick of warmth on his neck calmed his want for her, the slow trail of kisses down his chest causing him to twitch, fur standing on end.

The journey of her lips ended with one final kiss on the flared tip of his growing shaft, a warm, wet tongue leaving her mouth to slide down the hot length of meat. At the base her tongue reached out, grasping one of his bulging balls and gently sliding her lips around it, suckling at it like a foal would a mare’s teats.

Having drunk her fill, she allowed the ball to drop from her mouth and grasped the now fully erect shaft between her lips, wetting it as she ran her muzzle toward its tip.

Continuing to work at the member in her mouth, she twisted her rear round, the firm pink cheeks turning a half circle to rest before his snout, the winking of her dripping lips begging for attention. Her back arched as her own body found relief in the soft lapping of his tongue, her hips instinctively pushing toward his face, wanting more.

On the opposite end her lips were halfway down his shaft, tongue swirling round the sensitive length as her head bobbed slowly, each time almost gagging as the tip pushed against the back of her throat.

I wonder if I’ll be able to succeed tonight? She thought as she visualized aligning her muzzle and neck, hoping to form one long tube to take the full length of his member between her teeth.

She had been attempting the specific technique on and off for the past year in an ongoing attempt to take his and her bodies to their sexual limits. The first attempt had been a disaster, she had almost blacked out before he pulled her off his shaft.

The harsh warning he had given had swayed her away from attempting it for a few months, but the temptation to please him in a new way had her trying once again. Each time she failed, but each time she came closer to the goal.

This time I’ll do it for sure, was the final thought that passed through her mind before she cleared it, aligning each part perfectly perfectly her only focus.

He felt the change in tightness instantly as she drove her lips down his length, “Cadence, I told yo-” escaping his lips before a sigh consumed the words. Shivers racked his body as her snout brushed against his sac, the feeling of being swallowed completely, the intimacy of her every breath rubbing against his length bringing back memories of the spa and their dive into a pool of impossibly powerful sensations.

A splash of her juices on his muzzle brought thought back into his mind, the realisation driving his snout into her winking lips, spreading her around him, licking deep inside. Pulling out to take a breath, he felt her tail pressing him back toward the quivering folds of flesh, She’s almost there.

The tension in his groin reached its peak as her insides stilled their movement for a moment. Her lips spasmed as his shaft propelled shot after shot of hot seed down her throat, both mare and stallion drinking their fill of each other’s juices.

Body spent, she drew the softening member from her mouth, a smile on her muzzle as she licked the last of his seed from the tip.

Yawning, he wrapped his hooves around her stomach, pulling her backward to lie atop him, the scent of her hair filling his nostrils. “Cadence, I told you not to do that,” He whispered into her ear.

Rolling from his chest onto the mattress, she pressed her muzzle into his, the fluids that stained each other’s lips mixing with a kiss. “That doesn’t mean you didn’t like it.”

A small smile showed his teeth, his eyes darting away from hers, “It was quite enjoyable, but,” Another yawn stretched his jaw. “It’s still too dangerous, you could choke.”

“I promise I won’t,” Cadence snuggled her head into Shining’s neck as she spoke, his hooves curling over her back, pulling her close. “Now let’s get some sleep, you’ve got a big day tomorrow, Skylight.”

Surprises Come in All Shapes and Sizes

“Now ask her to go on a date,” Cadence spoke softly to the shaking Cloud, his chest heaving rapidly, eyes quivering as he stared the Skylight.

“Um, I,” A harsh shiver rocked Cloud’s body, Cadence holding him steady with her hooves. Regaining his balance, he spoke again,” I’d like to, uh, I’d like to, like to.” Cloud’s legs gave way, a plume of dust erupting about him as his chest hit the dirt.

“I think it’s time for a break,” Shining said as he shook his head, the illusion of Skylight’s features fading from his face. “I’m getting tired from standing still for so long.”

Looking up at the high noon sun, Cadence nodded, licking her dry lips before speaking, “That’s a good idea, I could use something to drink.”

The trio stepped from the shade of the ancient building they were underneath, the sun’s scorching touch causing Shining to break into a sweat almost instantly. His tongue was lolling from his mouth, shoulders heaving, panting by the time they reached the tavern.

It was like stepping from a the midday heat of a desert into the thick warmth of a jungle, the moist hug of the air pushing a sigh from Cadence’s lips. “What do you two want?” She asked the stallions beside her as they neared the bar.

Cloud swung his eyes around the room before answering, “Just water please.”

“I’ll have the same,” He said between pants, mane was flattened with sweat.

Stepping up to the bench, the bitter smell of alcohol invaded Cadence’s wrinkling nose. Brown and red were spilled all across the wood that the pink-maned bar-mare stood behind. “Oh, you’re one of Skylight’s friends aren’t you?” She leant over the bar, pushing her muzzle toward Cadence’s ear, “Was she good company last night? I’ve never seen that mare with anyone before, I want to know what she’s like.”

Cadence took a step backward, her cheeks burning with red, “We didn’t do anything like that with Skylight actually, she was only helping us find a way off this mountain.”

The pink-maned mare winked, “Whatever you say sweetie, now what would you like to drink?”

“Just three glasses of water please.”

“Oh how boring,” She shook her head as her wings filled glass after glass. “If you and your partner want to have some fun before you leave, just ask. Where is he anyway?” Flicking her eyes across the crowded room, a smile filled her lips as she spotted Shining and Cloud. “Looks like you’ve found someone after all.” Azure wings pushed three glasses across the bar, “Have fun.”

Cheeks burning red hot, Cadence wordlessly grasped the three drinks in her blue glow before quickly stepping toward Cloud and Shining. “We need to get off this mountain as quickly as possible,” She said as she sat, passing the drinks around. “The ponies here are a little too open.”

“I thought you said we weren’t leaving till we helped Cloud,” Shining winced as the words left his mouth.

Cloud’s eyes fell into his glass, shoulders slumping, “That’s alright, if you don’t want to stay any longer I don’t want to keep you here. You’ve already helped me so much.”

A soft touch of blue lifted his chin, his eyes meeting Cadence’s warm pair, “Don’t be silly, I really want to help you overcome this issue of yours. I’m sure it won’t be more than a day or two and you’ll be able to face Skylight with ease.”

All three ponies drank their water greedily, Cadence ordering second and third rounds. Shining’s stomach called for food, the stallion devouring three times as much food as both Cadence and Cloud combined. “I think we’re ready to return to training,” He said by the time his stomach was tight, a satisfied smile on his lips.

The sun was less of a burden and more of a soft pleasure for the trio as the stepped back into its rays. Streets were empty, nothing but the soft sound of wind to accompany them as they strolled back toward the shade cast by a line of buildings.

“Now Cloud,” Cadence spoke slowly as she weaved the spell across Shining’s features, the tomboyish, blue face of Skylight slowly forming from the white. “Just keep your breathing slow, relax-”

“Why don’t you just pretend it’s someone else?” Shining butted in, earning himself a disapproving glare from Cadence.

“Well, his problem is fainting when he talks with one specific pony, Skylight. If he pretends you’re another pony what is the point of changing your appearance? He needs to learn how to talk to her specifically.” Readopting a smile, she turned to Cloud, “Why don’t you start?”

“Okay,” White wings extended, their tips jerked up and down as Cloud inhaled and exhaled deeply, rolling his shoulders backward. Stepping close to Skylight, his rapidly blinking eyes met her steady ones, the excitement in his stomach sending shivers down his legs. “Uh, Skylight, would you like-” His knee buckled for a moment before locking back into place, the rate of Cloud’s breathing increasing.

“Would you like to have a drink with me some time?” He blurted before his body collapsed into Cadence’s waiting magical hammock.

Skylight tilted her head to the side, closing her eyes as she spoke with Shining’s voice, “I’d love to.”

“Good!” Clapping her hooves together, Cadence slowly lowered the drowsy Cloud to the dirt, the dazed pegasus falling limply onto his side as she released him. “Now we just need him to do that without collapsing.”

The bright blue sky slowly grew darker as Cloud repeated the same exercise over and over, his body and words growing steadier.

Glancing up at the starless sea of black above, Cadence sighed, “I think this will be the last one then we’ll finish for today.” She stepped alongside the pegasus, running one of her hooves along his back. “Imagine this is your last chance to ask her.”

Cloud gulped, a knot forming in his stomach as he imagined never seeing Skylight again, the short, white mane he loved so much. The soft blue eyes he never had the chance to stare deeply into. Come on Cloud, this is what you want isn’t it?

A slow breath left his mouth as he took another step toward Skylight, his muzzle bumping against hers. “Oh sorry,” He said, quickly retreating. “I was going to ask you something, but.” Pausing, he stole a glance at her features, the question lined across them beckoning him to continue.

Bright blue hair flew through the air as Cloud quickly straightened his neck, locking his eyes with Skylight. Emotion poured forth the instant his mouth opened, “I like you, maybe even love you, but I probably shouldn’t say that.” He winced before drawing another breath, “What I really wanted to say is I’d like to know you better, maybe we could get a drink some time?”

Cadence gasped as one of his legs buckled, her horn instinctively lighting to catch him. A sigh of relief escaped her lips as his body righted itself, Cloud hyperventilating but still standing.

The voice that came from Skylight’s lips caused Cadence to burst into laughter. Her speech was littered with high cracks and sudden lows, Shining’s best attempt at a mareish voice, “Of course I’d love to.”

“Good,” Cadence spoke between pants, her hoof stuffed against her lips, trying to suppress her giggles. “We’ll, work on, the rest, tomorrow.” With deep breaths she slowly calmed her lungs as Shining wiped the illusion from his face.

“The rest?” Confusion covered Cloud’s face, his jaw hanging open in an unsaid question. “I thought all I needed to do was ask her on a date?”

Shaking her head, Cadence leant into Shining’s waiting hug, “Well, asking her is only the first step, after that you actually have to entertain her for a whole evening. Do you even know what she likes to do?”

“Uh,” Cloud cast his eyes downward, kicking at the dirt. “No, but isn’t that what a date is for? Getting to know her?”

“It helps if you have at least one thing in common,” Cadence’s eyes met Shining’s, the couple sharing a smile. “Don’t worry about it for now, just go get some sleep. We’ll meet back here tomorrow.”

Turning their backs to him, Cadence and Shining walked down the dim street toward the building that housed them the previous night. Their saddlebags and glowing mattress waited inside, untouched.

Collapsing onto the blue construct, Cadence giggled, pulling Shining down beside her with her magical grasp. His forelegs wrapped around her, she sighed, “Do you think he’ll be able to say the same words when he’s facing the real thing?”

“I’m sure he’ll do fine,” Shining’s words we muffled as he nuzzled the inside of Cadence’s neck. “With your help he’ll have her falling in love with him by tomorrow.”

A giggle burst from Cadence’s lips as Shining nibbled at her ear, “I couldn’t have done it without you.” Pulling away away from his hug, she flipped over to face him and pressed her lips into his, breathing the air from his lungs. “You make the cutest little mare,” She whispered as they broke apart. “Maybe you’re willing to reconsider my offer?”

“I thought you didn’t know how to transform me completely yet?”

“Well, I don’t yet, but maybe today has changed your mind about the whole ordeal? Maybe you’d like to be my test subject when Celestia teaches me the final spell?”

Shining closed his eyes, the last week’s dream flooding back into his thoughts. Instead of Celestia this time, it was his blue mane between Cadence’s teeth, his white cheeks flared with pink as a high pitched moan flowed from his lips.

Shaking the image away, Shining opened his eyes again, “My answer is still n-” A yawn cut him off, drawing his final word out into one long syllable, “Oooooooooooo.”

Giggling, Cadence rubbed her snout against his, “I think it’s time for some sleep, we’ve got a lot of work to do tomorrow.”

The morning came quickly for Shining, his muscles still aching with sleep by the time Cadence’s voice called him from the dark mists of sleep. “Come on,” She shook him as he groaned, turning away from the intruding sound. “I’ve already given you an extra hour of sleep, you can’t stay in here all day.”

“Yes, uh, Shining. I know Cadence would appreciate it if you accompanied us.”

Shining’s eyelids flew open at the strange voice, the eyes beneath them finding a timid-looking white pegasus standing in the dim glow. “Cloud? What are you doing here?”

“Well,” Cadence said. “I told him we’d meet at the same place by mid-morning, and I wasn’t going to let your laziness stop me from keeping my word.” Taking a step toward the door, she looked back over her shoulder, a sly smile on her lip, “Now why don’t you get up? I’m sure you’re hungry.”

The grumbling pain in Shining’s stomach was stronger than his tired mind. Taking command of his body, his hunger fueled legs trailed Cadence out into the noon heat and toward the tavern. The pink-maned serving mare’s jaw dropped at his order before her lips twisted into a grin, “You know, they say things about stallions who love their food.”

Cadence’s foreleg was pulling Shining away and toward the table before he could hear the second half.

“What is with the mares in this place,” She grumbled under her breath as Shining poured bowl after bowl of roasted peanuts down his gullet.

“Ahh,” A satisfied gasp from Shining’s lips signified the end of his meal, Cadence looking to her side to find his hooves rubbing an overfilled belly. “So what are we doing today?”

“Well,” Cadence’s eyes rolled into her head, teeth chewing at her cheek as she thought. “Cloud already overcame his major problem yesterday, so we’re going to test him a few more times on that before moving onto the next step, giving him something to do on a date.”

Much to Shining’s disappointment, Cloud had lost some of his confidence overnight, forcing him to once again stand still in the sun, face cloaked in illusion..

“-And I’d really like to get to know you better.” Cloud stared into Skylight’s eyes tall and proud.

“Good,” Cadence clapped her hooves together, a smile on her muzzle. “That’s three times in a row now, I think you’ve gotten over your collapsing issue. Why don’t we take a short break?”

Cloud stood statue still as Cadence and Shining strolled round the corner, his eyes staring into nothing as his mind worked. “I,” He whispered to himself. “I got rid of it.” The corners of his mouth curved upward, eyes widening. This time he yelled, “I got rid of it!”

Darting round the corner after the couple, he dove between them, wrapping one foreleg over either neck, pulling both ponies to the ground. “I can’t believe I did it. Thank you both so much.”

Instinctively lighting his horn, Shining suspended Cloud in midair as he climbed to his hooves. “Sorry,” Shining said as he lowered the surprised pegasus to the ground. “You shouldn’t sneak up on me like that.”

“Oh, no, it’s my fault.” The magic seemed to have sucked Cloud’s confidence away, his eyes returning to their usual downcast position. “I, I shouldn’t have done that.”

Dusting herself off, Cadence chuckled, “Don’t worry about it, love is an extremely exciting thing, it’s natural to go a little crazy.” Turning herself back toward the tavern, she nodded at the door, “Come on, it only gets better from here.”

The muggy air inside was somehow cooler, the sounds of pleasure that filled the room muffled by the excitement that buzzed in Cadence’s ears. “Why don’t we have a little something to celebrate?” She said when the bar-mare asked for her order.

Shining’s wide eyes and lolling tongue spoke more than any words, Cadence’s muzzle splitting with a grin as she ordered, “What do you have in the way of chocolate?”

To Shining’s dismay, the army provisions lacked any real chocolate, so they ended up with a bowl of chocolate dipping sauce for a matching plate of strawberries. Regardless, the stallion wolfed the pink fruits down, leaving Cadence to simply sip water and watch.

Cloud had ordered a tankard of cider for himself, by Cadence’s recommendation. The container sat still almost full before him.. “What is the second part of the training you mentioned?” He asked after some time, distracting the giggling alicorn from the clown of a stallion tossing strawberries into the air and catching them in his mouth.

“Oh, sorry,” Cadence’s eyes lit up at the question, gathering herself before she continued. “Well now you’ve worked up the courage to ask the initial question, you need to have something prepared to the date.” Noticing Cloud’s lips part, she added, “Something she’ll enjoy.”

“And what exactly would that involve? I really know nothing about her.”

“As far as I can tell, she loves flying,” Her eyes traced the large form of Cloud’s wings, brow raising. “I’m sure you’ll be a natural at it with wings like those.”

Peeking back at his wings, Cloud shuffled lower in his cushion until the feathered appendages were hidden below the table. “Uh, yeah. I can fly, but I don’t like to do it near others.” Cadence’s questioning stare prompted him to continue. “They’re, they’re a little too strong. To the point where I lose control sometimes.”

“Oh,” Cadence nodded, a smile stretching her muzzle until her cheeks hurt. “I think they’ll be perfect for Cloud. Why don’t you show me exactly how powerful those things are.” Without waiting for a response she stood and stepped across the room. Both stallions shared a look before following.

Swallowing the final morsels of strawberry, Shining walked beside Cloud. “I can see you’re a little nervous about this, and I know it’s hard to convince Cadence once she’s got her mind set on a plan. So if flying is too much for you, I can talk her out of it.”

“Are there any other options?”

“I-” Shining held his tongue, the words I’m sure there’s plenty stuck in his throat. “To be honest, I don’t know. Some mare’s have certain paths you have to take to get to their hearts, and flying could be Skylight’s one and only.”

Cloud’s eyes fell to the ground for a moment, his head shaking as a small smile touched his lips. “If I can overcome one challenge, how bad can another be?” His neck straightened as he spoke, eyes meeting Shining’s.

Patting the now grinning pegasus on the back, Shining couldn’t help but smile himself, Cloud’s fresh desire for love filling him with his own want. A want to explore new reaches with Cadence, Maybe being a mare for a night wouldn’t be so bad? He shook the thought from his head and stepped out into the fading sunlight, Cloud close behind.

They found Cadence waiting at the tower’s base, her head swinging this way and that as she gazed up at the sky. Following her eyes, Shining found a barely noticeable sky-blue pegasus against the identically colored backdrop, her white mane and tail the only tell she was there.

“Skylight,” Cloud breathed as his own eyes found the pony of interest. White legs jiggled for a moment before steadying, Cloud breathing steadily as he followed her through the sky, a smile pulling at his lips.

“Well, I couldn’t have asked for a better moment,” Cadence nudged Cloud with her wing. “Why don’t you get up there and show us, and Skylight, what you’ve got?”

Nodding, Cloud tore his eyes from the sky and glanced back at his wings, their feathers twitching with anticipation. It took him a few moments to extend the beastly things, twice his size and rippled with muscle they cast a shadow over Shining and Cadence.

Mouth hanging open in awe, Cadence shook her head, “How in Equestria do you keep those things looking so good if you don’t fly?”

His cheeks aflame, eyes downcast, Cloud pawed the ground, “I said I don’t like flying, but I still do. My mother always told me to keep my wings in good shape, so I just fly at night when no one can see me crash.”

“I’m sure you’ll be fine this time,” Shining said a smile, draping a foreleg over Cloud’s withers. “Now get up there and don’t faint mid-air.”

“Yeah,” Cloud nodded, giving his wings a test flap before leaping into the air. The wind exploded beneath his wings as he beat them, like a dragon’s they moved slowly, but their power made for it, rocketing him into the air.

“I think he’s exactly what Skylight wants,” Cadence breathed, eyes wide as they followed the monstrous winged creature across the sky. One of his wings came down out of sync, sending Cloud spiralling through the air for a moment before another movement corrected his path. “I just hope he can keep himself calm.”

Soaring above the tower, Cloud trailed Skylight as she looped and twirled through the air, unaware of the company. One turn and her eyes met his, her features briefly lit up with shock as she passed over him before being replaced by a playful smile. Skylight gave one last glance backward before speeding away, Cloud following as best he could.

The pair disappeared out into the distance, looping and twirling through the clouds like two blue and white moths circling round the lantern that was the sun. Cloud’s slow beats drove him faster than Skylight, but agility kept her constantly out of reach.

Still chasing and running like hunter and prey, they zoomed overhead, a cloud of dust erupting as they passed. The pair turned for another pass, this time even faster, Cadence barely able to keep track of them with her eyes.

Crack! The tower’s spire splintered off as Cloud’s wing clipped it. He spiralled toward the ground, soundless, jaw agape, limbs motionless, in shock at what happened.

Thump! A burst of blue collided with Cloud, snatching him from the perilous fall and lifting him back into the air.

“Are you okay?” Cadence rushed over to Skylight as she landed, Cloud limp in her arms. He groaned as she set him down, his the tips of his wing twisted the wrong way, white feathers matted with red.

“I’m fine,” Cloud gasped, rolling onto his hooves, and unsteadily standing. “Nothing that hasn’t happened before.”

Chuckling, Skylight turned away, extending her wings once again, rear legs braced for lift off. “You have some nice wings there colt, meet me in the sky when they’re ready to use again.” The ground seemed to shake as she leapt into the air, a cloud of dust blowing up into the remaining trio’s faces.

“Did she just-” Wincing, Cloud shifted his broken wing. “Did she just ask me on a date?” His muzzle held a smile, yet his eyes were laced with pain, each movement eliciting a gasp from his lips.

“I think so,” Cadence replied, her eyes following the sky-blue pegasus as she melted into the sky. Turning back to Cloud, she stared at his injury, “I think we should get your wing fixed up first, it looks pretty painful. Is there a medical building on this mountain?”

“There is one stallion who’s assigned to the duty, but so little happens on this mountain I don’t think he knows how to cure anything more than an alcohol overdose.”

They found him with one mare squirming on his snout and another bouncing above his groin. The mares appeared to be twins, both with identical silver coats and night-blue manes, the only difference their cutie marks, one a bright white cloud, the other a grumbling grey one.

“Are you Blister?” Cadence’s words were swallowed up by the overbearing sound of groaning and the wet sound of organs sliding against each other. “Are you Blister?” She yelled this time, catching the attention of the closest mare.

Stopping her movement up and down his shaft, she fluttered open her eyelids and wiped the drool from the corner of her mouth before speaking. “Why do you want to know, you’re not trying to take him away from us are you pinky?” Her voice was harsh, words quick and untrusting.

“No, no, no,” Cadence shook her head as she wrapped a foreleg over Shining’s withers, and pulled him close. “I’ve already got my own stallion. I was just wondering if Blister can put his medical talents to use, Cloud here has broken his wing.”

The mare took one look at Cloud’s weak smile before narrowing her eyes, “Blister is busy, you’ll have to wait till we’ve finished our appointment.”

“Oh come on Stormy,” A cheery voice pulled Cadence’s attention to the other end of Blister, her eyes found the other mare grinning at her. “That poor stallion look hurt, and kinda cute, we should give him some tending to.” Her final words bought a small fire to Cloud’s cheeks.

“What’s happening up there Sunshine?” Blister’s voice was gruff, muffled against a silver rump, they sent its owner into a giggling fit.

“There’s a cute looking stallion who wants some attention,” Sunshine said once she had recovered, locking eyes with Shining as she spoke. “He looks tasty enough to help.” Running her tongue along her upper lip, she beckon him closer with a hoof.

She can’t mean me? Shining felt his face catching afire, tongue fumbling for excuses. “Oh no, it’s not me who’s hurt, it’s him,” A white hoof pointed toward Cloud. “He’s the one who needs attention.”

“Oh, so you two come as a package?” Her silver wing extended, feathers brushing against Shining’s cheeks. “Don’t worry, I’ve got enough room in me for both of you.”

“Enough,” Cadence roared, pulling Shining away from Sunshine’s touch, horn ringing with blue as she lifted both sisters off Blister. “We came here because Cloud’s wing is hurt, can you fix it or not?”

Growling, Blister rolled onto his stomach and climbed to his hooves, wiping the juices from beneath his hard grey eyes with a soft-brown wing. His mane was a darker brown, like wet dirt, streaked with grey. “Fine, but let’s make this quick, I’ve got important duties to fulfil.”

They found themselves as four, crowded around one of the tavern’s corner tables. It was crammed with medical supplies, bandages, spools of thread and a box of needles, but most of all, trays and trays of two different potions, one yellow-green, the other white.

“Now let me have a look at that wing.”

As Blister handled Cloud’s injury, Shining’s eyes roamed the medical table, his blue glow plucking one of the white vials from its resting place. “What’s this for?”

“There are stallion’s round here who have trouble maintaining their hardness all day,” Blister growled without turning away from his work. “A swig of that will keep your cock hard till you fall asleep.”

Cloud gasped as Blister straightened his feathers out, the rough application of a soaked bandage making the white pegasus squirm in pain.

Taking one of the vials in her own magical grasp, Cadence held it up to the light, trying to deduce the contents. I’ve never seen any potion like it. “What is in this Blister?”

Grunting, Blister pulled the wrapping tight with his teeth before speaking. “Most of it is just some herbs we import from those zebras, but I always need to add my own special ingredient. Some fresh stallion seed directs the magic toward the right area of the body.”

Shining’s magic cut off, the potion he was holding falling to the ground, shattering against the wood. “Are you saying that you-” His lips flailing, Shining was lost for words as he backed away from the table.

“Yep,” Blister chuckled, amusement burning in his eyes. “And all these young stallions drink it as if it were fine wine. Anyway, your friend’s fixed up, and I need to get back to my girls.” His soft laughter faded as he walked away.

“Would you like a little drink Shining?” Cadence waved a white vial in Shining’s face, inching it closer and closer.

Knocking the mixture from the air, Shining winced as it shattered against the ground, some of the liquid splashing at his ankles. “No, let’s just get out of this building.”

The cool air outside was a refreshing break from the sweaty heat they had left. A long shadow sprouted from the tavern as the sun sank behind it, another day falling asleep.

“I think I might head back to my quarters,” Cloud announced after they had stood silent for some time, allowing the fresh breeze to cleanse their bodies. “If I want to get this wing healed I’ll need all the rest I can get.”

“Uh, yeah,” Shining answered after some delay, his eyes on Cadence as he expected her to reply. “We’ll see you tomorrow if you’re feeling healed enough.”

Cloud nodded, waving as he stepped toward the small lean to into the tavern’s side. It would not have been able to hold even a tenth of the ponies that resided on the mountain and functioned more as a home for the few ponies without partners rather than residence for the entire squad.

“Cadence?” Shining turned back to the silent alicorn, standing completely still as the light breeze played with her mane. “Cadence?” He repeated, this time draping a foreleg around her, brushing his lips against her cheek.

“Oh, yeah.” She sighed, leaning her body into Shining, nuzzling her cheek against his. “I was just thinking about Cloud and Skylight. They don’t really need my help anymore do they?”

“Why do you say that Cadence?”

“Well, she just asked him to meet her when his wing’s healed, and, I don’t know.” A deep breath left Cadence’s lungs, pink limbs folding as she sat, bringing Shining down to the dirt with her. “I kind of want to help their relationship grow, be with them every step of the way. Watching love blossom, it’s the greatest feeling in the world, I want to water and weed their love, like a gardener. I want to see the beautiful fruit that results from my work.”

Shining chuckled, pulling her closer, kissing the inside of her ear. “Cadence, I know you enjoy helping other ponies like this, but you can’t babysit them.” He paused for a moment, staring at the ever-darkening sky as he thought. “Imagine how hard our relationship would be if we had some pony organizing everything for us? If you want to see the depths of love it needs to be in our relationship.”

Her brow raised in question, Cadence giggled, “Does that mean you want to take our to the next stage?”

“Cadence, we’ve already got plans for marriage, what else could we do?”

“Well there is that, but I wasn’t talking about anything we’d do publicly.” Cadence swept her eyes around, checking for company. Satisfied with the lack of it, she leant close to Shining, pressing her muzzle into his ear. “Are you ready to become my little mare?”

Shining’s lips instinctively twisted into a grimace, even though his mind was feeling otherwise. Is this really as bad as I think it is? If this is really something she wants to do, why don’t I just let her try it once? What if it turns out to be fun? Scrunching his eyes shut, he shook the invasion of thoughts from his head, the image of his mane between Cadence’s teeth, a scream pouring from his lips filling his head. “No, I don’t think so.”

“What took you so long to decide?” Cadence questioned, the hint of humour in her voice. “Were you thinking about it?”

“N-” Stopping himself, Shining turned to Cadence. Her playful eyes, beautiful mane, soft snout. How could I lie to a face like this. “I was, but promise me Cadence, if I ever say yes to your question, refuse me.”

A grin stretched Cadence muzzle, her body shaking as she held back laughter, “Not even if you come to me begging Please Cadence, I want to be your plaything. I want you to fill my body with your seed?”

Shining felt red warming his white cheeks as he lowered his eyes, unable to look directly into hers. “Cadence, please, this isn’t funny. Stallions are born stallions. They aren’t supposed to be filled with, you know.”

“Well maybe you need to expand your way of thinking,” Cadence said, her smile now hurting her cheeks as it grew wider and wider. “There’s plenty of stallions in that tavern who seem to enjoy that kind of thing.”

Pulling away from Cadence’s grasp, Shining stood, a shudder rolling along his back. “Can you stop Cadence,” He winced, his words coming out louder than he had intended. “Sorry for yelling. I’ve just had a lot of confusion about this thing recently, I’d like it if you didn’t make it harder.”

“Oh, I didn’t realise.” Cadence stood alongside him, wrapping her foreleg over his withers. “Sorry, I was just teasing you. If you really don’t want to do it, I won’t force you.”

Shining nuzzled his cheek against hers, breathing in her comforting scent, “I know you wouldn’t. It’s just, I think I might want to be your, uh, little mare, and that scares me.”

“Don’t worry Shining, by the time you’re ready, it won’t scare you anymore.” Shining’s eyes widened at the words. “I’m just joking, sorry.” Cadence giggled, the contagious joy spread, infecting Shining.

The pair stood, leaning against each other, the combined laughter filling the quiet evening with sound. “Do you want to get something to eat?” Cadence said eventually, her own stomach feeling pained.

Shining’s grin shrunk into a small smile before he brought his lips to Cadence’s cheek, “You always know how to cheer me up.”

A small bowl of berries and an apple satisfied Cadence’s appetite, Shining’s stomach requiring twice the serving to silence it. “Do you think Cloud will be fine?” Cadence said after wiping the red juice from her mouth.

“I’m sure he will,” Covering his mouth with a hoof, Shining suppressed a burp. “He was lucky he only broke a few feathers and didn’t snap a whole wing off. I just hope he doesn’t lose his confidence after resting for a few days.”

“Even if her reverts to his old self, we can always train him back up, right Skylight?” Shining chuckled softly as Cadence rubbed her hoof under his chin, wiping away streaks of juice. “I wonder how long it’ll take for his wing to heal?”

They found Cloud waiting for them outside the tavern the next day, staring at his hooves, unaware of them as the stepped closer.

“Cloud,” Cadence put her hoof under his chin, softly lifting his eyes to meet hers. “I didn’t think you’d be out of bed so soon. Is your wing okay?”

Smiling, Cloud backed away from Cadence’s touch. “I only injured my wing, that really isn’t enough to keep me in bed. Besides,” He tilted his head, glancing backward at the tavern. “I can’t get what Skylight said out of my head. I just have to talk to her again.”

Stepping forward, Shining patted Cloud’s shoulder, “I know exactly how you feel. Let’s just hope she’s inside so you can get another chance to speak with her.”

Cloud’s legs sprang into action the moment they stepped inside, his eyes spotting Skylight sitting in her usual dark corner, tearing into an apple. “Easy there,” Blue encapsulated Cloud as Cadence spoke, her magic pulling the stallion back beside them. “I don’t think Skylight will like a stallion dashing at her full speed, just take it slow.”

They stopped by the bar to order food and drink first, the barmare taking a moment to peel a stallion off her before stepping up to the counter. “What would you like cutie?”

Cloud bounced around impatiently as Cadence questioned each of them, “Well Shining’s going to have two apple pies, what do you want Cloud?”

“Uh,” Cloud’s eyes flicked around the room frantically, his mind searching for something to say. “Skylight!” He blurted, wincing as he realised what he had said. “No, I mean, water, I’ll have some water.”

“Ohhh,” The barmare cooed, pulling Cloud closer with a look. “Are you all flustered about miss too-good-for-everyone?” She leant across the bar, whispering right into his snout. “Don’t get yourself stuck up over her, there’s a lot of mares who’d love to get their hooves on your cute piece of meat.”

Stepping between the two, Cadence forced the bamare back with a stare, “We just want our food, nothing else.”

Narrowing her eyes, the barmare stepped away, her wings automatically pulling ingredients from the cupboards.. “Fine, if you have to ruin my fun. Go sit down at your table, the food will be out soon.”

The rate of Cloud’s breathing increased with each step they took toward Skylight’s table, the huffy sound overbearing by the time they stopped. “Hey Skylight,” Cadence greeted the unaware mare with a smile. “Do you mind if we sit here?”

“There’s room,” She grunted without raising her eyes, her hoof gesturing toward the other side of the table.

Shining and Cadence slid in beside each other, the seat barely fitting both their bodies. Still standing, Cloud froze for a moment, looking to Cadence for guidance.

“Uh, Skylight,” Cadence cleared her throat. “Could you maybe shuffle over a little to make room for Cloud?”

Looking up, Skylight winced as she saw Cloud standing over her. Devouring the remainder of her apple in a single bite, she stood. “I was leaving anyway, you three can have the table to yourselves.”

“Wait, Skylight,” Cloud called after her, the sky-blue mare stopping her in tracks. “Don’t you recognize me? I thought you said you wanted to talk again?”

Teeth gritted, Skylight stared at Cloud’s begging face for many moments before recognition dawned in her eyes. “You’re that colt who’s been buying me drinks for the last few months, why would I ask to talk with you?”

Cadence felt Shining’s hoof cover her mouth as she opened it to speak, his voice reassuring in her ear. “He needs to do this by himself Cadence, you can’t babysit him.” Sighing, she closed her lips and allowed the events to unfold before her.

“No, that’s not me, I mean,” Cloud paused, his eyes briefly rolling into his head. “It is, but don’t you remember me from yesterday?” He lifted his injured wing, wincing as he spread the bandaged feathers. “You were flying with me when I hit the tower spire, and afterward you told me to speak with you when I was healed.”

Disgust faded from Skylight’s features, a small smile replacing it as her eyes traced the outline of Cloud’s wing, her grin growing. “I’d never forget those wings, but you can’t be the same colt I flew with yesterday, he seemed so alive.”

“Yeah, I’m the same colt, same wings.” Pain crossed Cloud’s face as he folded his wing back into its resting place. “You said you wanted to meet me again, do you still want that?”

The instant Cloud’s wing shrunk away the smile vanished from Skylight’s face, her usual hard expression replacing it. “You remember it wrong, I said to meet me in the sky, not at the tavern.” She turned and stepped away, stopping after a moment and twisting her head back, eyes lit with playfulness, “The offer does still stand if you were wondering.”

Cloud slumped into his seat, “I’m extremely confused Cadence, one moment it feels like she’s showing affection, then the next like I’m some scum.” He allowed his head to rest against the table, a sigh escaping his lips.

“I don’t know,” Cadence mumbled, staring at the tabletop for answers. After a moment she stood, “I’m going to go talk with her, find out why she’s acting so strangely.” Her hoofsteps faded into the ever present audible wall of pleasure as she stepped away, Shining and Cloud left with nothing to do but eat and wait.

The sound of wings beating caught Cadence’s ears as she exited the tavern, her eyes finding Skylight lazily corkscrewing up into the sky. “Wait!” Leaping from the ground, Cadence sped after her, panting by the time she had caught up. “Skylight, can we talk?”

Turning her head, Skylight looked at Cadence with unfocused eyes, a few moments passing before they readjusted. “Cadence? Why are you here?”

“Well, like I said I want to talk. Talk about Cloud.”

Groaning, Skylight pulled away from Cadence, forcing the alicorn to exert herself. “Why are you helping him?” Skylight questioned as Cadence came alongside her once again, annoyance written across her features.

“Can, we just, stop, somewhere, and talk?” Cadence spoke between pants, her face a whole shade darker as she struggled to maintain Skylight’s pace.

Without responding, Skylight pulled up and circled back for the tower. Thank you, Cadence thought, tired wings lugging her heavy body toward the resting place.

Cadence collapsed the instant she landed, her body heaving. Watching her, Skylight waited patiently, eyes tracing the shaking pink form. “You should exercise your wings Cadence, it’s sad to see a pegasus so out of shape.”

“I, know,” Cadence responded many moments later, her body recovered enough to shuffle into a more comfortable resting position. “I’m learning a lot of things about myself during this trip, but that’s not why I came to talk.”

“You came to talk about Cloud.” Skylight’s face was emotionless as she spoke, as if she cared nothing for the topic. The slightest hint of a smile on her lips gave her away however.

“Well yes, but also no.” A smile spread across Cadence’s face as she watched confusion crease Skylight’s brow, a mad pony’s joy to block out the throbbing pain of her wings. “I wanted to talk about how you’ve been acting around Cloud recently. Why is it that one moment you seem to like him and the next you’re cold towards him? It’s confusing both him and I.”

Skylight’s gaze dipped, her eyes studying the roof’s tiling as she breathed noisily. Eventually she lifted her chin and spoke, “Being a pegasus, I’m sure you’ve heard of this. There are some pegasi who love wings, and I’m one of them.”

Opening her mouth, Cadence paused before speaking, Has she really not noticed I’m an alicorn? “First of all, how does this relate to Cloud? And second, I’m not just a pegasus.” She lit her horn, magically pulling a loose brick from the rooftop and holding it before Skylight. “I’m a unicorn as well.”

“Really?” Standing, Skylight stepped closer, examining Cadence’s horn with narrow eyes. “I thought it was your colt-friend doing the magic, and the pink thing was part of your mane. Are you some kind of mutant?”

“No!” Cadence winced at her own harsh tone. “I mean no.” Averting her eyes, Cadence bit her lip as she stared out into the sky, “I’m a princess.”

“A princess?” Skylight snorted with laughter as she stepped backward, falling onto her rear as a wave of giggling overcame her. “What would a princess be doing in a no name place like this?”

Holding up her hooves, Cadence yelled, “Listen!” Snapping Skylight from her giggling fit. Happy with the attention it garnered her, she continued in a softer voice. “We can have princess conversation another time. Right now I just want to talk about you and your strangeness around Cloud.”

“It’s like I said, I like wings more than the average pegasus.”

Cadence felt her brow furrowing at Skylight reasoning, How does that explain anything?

“And that colt has some fine wings.” Skylight’s focus drifted as she spoke, a smile spreading wide across her muzzle as images of Cloud’s colossal wings flashed through her mind.

“Oh.” Shaking her head, Cadence chuckled softly, How could I not have seen that, it should have been obvious all along. “Well, just incase I misunderstood, you’re saying that the only reason you’re attracted to Cloud is his wings?”

“Yes,” Skylight’s smile faded away, her eyes sinking to stare at her hooves. “And I know it makes me a bad pony, like all those creeps who hang around in the tavern, but I can’t help it.”

Standing, Cadence stepped across the roof to sit beside Skylight and wrap a foreleg over her. “There’s nothing wrong with liking how a pony looks Skylight. I fell for Shining because of his massi-” She bit her tongue. “His lovely snout, yes, and he was first attracted to me because of my,” Looking downward, Cadence muttered the final word under her breath. “Flank.”

“You two have other things in common, but with me and Cloud, I just like his wings.”

Cadence shook her head, “How can you say that, you barely even know him. Just give him one chance, one evening to prove to you that he’s worth your time, and if after that you say no then he or I won’t bother you again.”

“Fine. I’ll do it.” Standing, Skylight spread her wings and stepped to the roof’s edge, forelegs bending in preparation for takeoff. “Tell his to meet me here, tomorrow night.” With that, she sprung into the air, wings catching the wind with ease.

“Wait!” Cadence called after her, climbing to her hooves and reaching out for the fading pegasus. “Cloud’s wing is still broken, how will he get up here?”

Turning back, Skylight came to hover above Cadence. A playful grin filling her muzzle. “If he really wants it he’ll come.” Cartwheeling backward, she dove down the tower’s side, picking up speed before pulling up and zooming off into the distance.

Shaking her head, Cadence stretched her still sore wings, peering over the edge as she worked up the energy to leap off.

“You’ve got a date,” Cadence exclaimed with a grin as she shuffled in beside Shining.

Cloud’s eyes bugged out, his chest heaving as he fumbled for words. “How, wha-, why?”

Giggling, Cadence leant forward and placed a hoof on the excited pegasus's lips. “I know this is unexpected, but I had to make a few promises to get this to work. One, this is your only chance with Skylight, if she deems this date a failure I said neither you nor I will bother her for a date again. And secondly, you have to meet her on the tower rooftop tomorrow night.”

“No,” Cloud whispered, a hoof coming up to support his falling head. “This is my only chance? Tomorrow?” He shook his head, muttering indiscernible words to himself. Blue hair flew through the air as he jerked his head up, locking eyes with Cadence. “What about my wing? How will I get to the tower top with such an injury?”

Sighing, Cadence fell sideways into Shining’s comforting grasp, nuzzling her head against his neck. “Well, I don’t know. I asked her and she said If he really wants to come he’ll come. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be,” As he stared at the wall behind Cadence, a smile grew on his face. “In the last few days you’ve gotten me closer to a relationship with Skylight than I ever would have done in a lifetime by myself, so thank you.” Shifting out from the table, he stood. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Where are you going?”

Cloud turned side on to the couple, half-opening his injured wing, “To see how well I can fly of course, if I don’t make it to the rooftop any other preparation is pointless.” Hoofsteps sounded along the wooden floor as he stepped away, Cadence outstretching a hoof after him.

“D-” A white hoof silenced her.

“Just let him go,” Shining whispered in her ear, pulling her foreleg down with his own. “Besides, we haven’t had a night to ourselves in a while.”

Cadence felt herself grinning. Ideas flashed through her mind, possibilities for what the coming night could hold. “Well now that you mention it, I have been wanting a little stallion recently.” Pulling herself out of his grasp, she stood before turning back to Shining. “You go to the house we’ve been staying at, I just need a little time to prepare some things.”

As she stepped away, Shining called after her, “As long as it isn’t a spell to turn me into a mare.”

A smile was pushing its way out the sides of her face as Cadence turned around, “I assure you it’s quite the opposite.”

The opposite of turning me into a mare? A picture of Cadence flashed through his mind, her legs widespread, a lengthy chunk of meat hung between them. No, that was just a dream. He thought as he stood, slowly walking toward the door.

Sitting inside the stone building, Shining’s stomach squirmed with tension when he first heard Cadence’s echoing steps against the floor. A casual pace, each one heightened his nerves, building his anticipation for what was to come.

“Are you thirsty Shining?” Cadence questioned as she rounded the corner, a glass of pale orange liquid held in her magical grasp. “Because I bought something for you to drink.”

Taking the glass in his own magic, Shining shot a questioning stare at Cadence, “So no crazy magical spells? No other ponies? Just an ordinary drink?”

Cadence averted her eyes for a moment, “Just a drink.”

Sniffing the liquid, Shining found the smell a surprise. “Orange juice?” He took a closer look, “No, this is too pale to be just orange juice. What else did you put in here?”

Rolling her eyes, Cadence sighed, “Well, if you have to ruin the fun of it. I took one of the white vials from Blister’s table and mixed it in with the juice. I just want to see what it will do.”

“Doesn’t that have Blister-”

She pressed a hoof to Shining’s mouth, silencing him. “Please just give it a drink, I’m sure it’ll be fun.”

Pushing Cadence’s hoof from his face, Shining sighed, “Fine, I’ll give it a sip, but if this tastes bad I’m not going to drink it.” Closing his eyes, he brought the drink to his pursed lips, opening them a fraction to let some of the liquid through.

At first his eyes scrunched up, face wrinkling with disgust. Slowly Shining relaxed, the lines on his face fading as he swallowed. “Not as bad as I thought it would be.” Bringing the cup bag to his lips, he drank another mouthful. “It’s just like orange juice, but thicker.” He drained the remainder of the cup with his next gulp, gasping as the drink slipped down his throat.

“Well, it looks like it works just as well as Blister said it would,” Cadence said with a sultry voice, her hooves tracing the Shining’s curves as they moved down his body. “I’ve never seen you this big.” She grasped the pillar of meat between her hooves, watched it twitch as she stroked slowly up the pink length.

“Cadence.” Shining winced as her hooves made another journey from tip to base, his shaft throbbing, as if he were orgasming without any seed exiting his body. “Can you just let it rest a little while? It hurts when you do that, like it’s going to burst.”

“What about if I-” The rest of her words were a mumble as Cadence wrapped her lips round Shining’s hot, flared tip, swirling circles round it with her tongue. The frenzied movements of his member continued, twitching inside her mouth, an uncontrollable beast.

Shining gasped again, clenching his eyes closed tight. “It still hurts Cadence. It’s so tight, and I can feel your teeth banging against it whenever I move it.” His groin spasmed as he spoke, shaft thrashing inside Cadence’s mouth.

Drawing herself off his length, Cadence wiped the excess saliva from the sides of her mouth with a hoof. “Well, if that isn’t working, maybe I’ll have to calm that thing down another way.” Climbing to her hooves, she spun in a half-circle, mane and tail flying around her.

She backed into Shining’s throbbing member, her tail a snake as it coiled itself around the length of meat, holding it still as she directed the tip toward her wet lips. A sigh of relief exploded from Shining’s lips the instant his shaft touched Cadence’s entrance.

“It’s like taking a cold bath after a hot day,” He whispered, leaning his head backward and hips forward, his body wanting more of the cool sensation. “Please Cadence, I need you so badly.”

Chuckling at his desperate movements, Cadence allowed her hips to fall, lips spreading as she cooled Shining’s burning length. Bending and straightening her hindlegs, she pumped her rump up and down his shaft, the soft squelching sounds of flesh against flesh mixing with both ponies’ moans.

Gyrating her hips, Cadence continued to empty and fill herself with Shining’s member, the added movement raising the volume of his moans. His body lifted to meets her downwards strokes, driving himself deeper into her, coating the insides of his legs with her juices as they splashed from her lips.

“I think-” Shining grunted as he thrusted into Cadence agaisnt, the tightness in his groin reaching what he knew to be his limit. “I’m nearly there.”

“Good.” Flashing a grin backward, Cadence increased her pace, squeezing her inner muscles as tightly as she could around him. “I want to see how well this potion works.”

Her rapid movements left little time for guessing, Shining’s shaft tightening as it prepared itself for orgasm. The upward thrusting of his hips stopping, groans echoing off the walls as he released himself inside Cadence while her hips still bobbed up and down above his.

Seed coated both Shining’s chest and Cadence’s rear as her movements splashed the white liquid from her lips, the sound akin to someone running through a puddle.

His sack aching, Shining looked up to find Cadence still pumping herself up and down his erect length. “I think the potion worked.”

“It’s amazing,” Cadence cried, her head tilted back, tongue lolling from her mouth. “The feeling of you filling me with your seed and fucking me, almost as good as that spa.” The semen that coated Shining’s length allowed Cadence to move even faster, the sound of slapping filling the air as her plump rump bounced against his hips.

Pushing himself into sitting position with his front legs, Shining grasped Cadence’s rear, slowing her pace and easing it off him. “Can you let me stand?”

Shooting a wicked grin back at Shining, Cadence pushed her lips down his length one final time before pulling herself from his. “What do you have planned?” She breathed as she stood, relishing in the feeling of seed dripping from her winking entrance.

“This.” Rearing on his hind legs, Shining climbed atop Cadence, his rock-hard shaft slipping easily inside her sopping wet rear. Listening to her soft groans, he stepped forward until his hips dug into her squishy cheeks.

Their bodies moved as two separate parts of the same machine. The position familiar enough that they rocked back and forth by instinct, eyes closed as both concentrated on the ecstasy that filled their hips.

Leaning his neck down, Shining tasted the tip of Cadence’s ear, grooming her silky fur with his tongue. “I know it doesn’t seem like it,” He whispered, the warm breath from his lips sending shivers down his spine. “But I really love this sex-crazed side to you.”

Twisting her snout up to meet his, Cadence grasped Shining’s lips between hers, brushing her tongue against his. The sound of wet flesh popped into the air as they pulled apart, Cadence’s crazed grin shrinking into a small smile. “Does that mean you want to be my little mare?”

“Cadence,” Shining gasped as she squeezed around him, the devious smile returning to her lips. “You know what I said about this.”

“I know, I’ll ask you tomorrow.”

A chuckled rumbled through Shining’s body as he pulled his head away from Cadence’s, hips thrusting forward as his weight shifted.

Back and forth their bodies swayed, moans and groans filling the stone walls long into the night. Spasms of pleasure overcoming both ponies until they collapsed from exhaustion, Shining’s shaft still locked between Cadence’s lips, a key stuck inside a keyhole.

New Company

“Chocolate,” Shining mumbled. Drool hung from the corner of his mouth as he rolled across the mattress, half-awake, half-asleep. Meeting the end, his body spilled onto the cool floor, the stone’s icy bite snapping him awake. “Cadence?”

Glancing around the room, he discovered his only companions to be the ethereal mattress, and the echos of his voice. A grumbling from below attracted Shining’s attention to his stomach, the painful emptiness suddenly making itself known.

Climbing to his hooves, he stepped toward the door, a hoof slipping across the wet floor. “Water?” He concluded from a sniff of the liquid, realising his body was soaked in it. His belly growled angrily once again, taking over his limbs and forcing him outside, the aromas of food floating over from the tavern attracting Shining.

The building greeted him with its usual muggy temperature and the strong smell of sexual juices. “Can I get something to eat?” He half yelled at the barmare over the quarrel of voices that filled the room, desperation straining his voice.

“Easy there cutie,” She chuckled, batting her azure eyelids. “Would you like something from the menu or,” Leaning close, she brushed her cheek against his, whispering directly into his ear. “Would you like a three course meal of me?”

The mix of pain in his stomach and morning grogginess left Shining ignorant to the mare’s attempted charm, his eyes searching the menu frantically. “Can I just have some peanuts and chocolate?”

“Fine.” The mare pouted as she turned to the cupboards behind her, rustling through them for Shining’s order. Spinning back to the bar, she found him still standing there, eyes wide as they followed the bowl of nuts on her wing. “You can go to your table now, I’ll bring it over.”

Grasping the peanuts in his magic, Shining buried his muzzle in the salty snacks as he stepped toward the corner table, unable to see. “Ughh,” He grunted as his legs knocked against the wooden edge, signalling his arrival.

“I see you’ve finally gotten up.” Cadence’s cheery voice mixed with a giggle, the soft touch of her magic lifting Shining’s eyes out of the bowl to meet hers. “Have a good sleep?”

Shining dove back into the roasted nuts, crunching the final mouthful between his teeth before dropping the empty bowl to the table. “It was great, but why didn’t you wake me up, and why am I so hungry?”

Another burst of laughter erupted from Cadence’s lips, her eyes narrowing with glee. “Well I did try to wake you. It must have been at least ten times before I gave up, even a bucket of water had no effect. As for you being hungry, it’s the afternoon. You already missed breakfast and lunch.”

“What?” Shining whispered, his eyes growing wide, jaw dropping.

“Excuse me,” A voice called from behind him. “If you’d sit down I’d be able to serve you.”

Turning, Shining found the barmare standing with a plate of chocolate sliced balanced upon her wing, a playful smile on her lips. She took step closer, pressing her chest against his, “And after you’ve finished this I’ll finish the service.”

“Uhh, no.” Shining stumbled backward, his hind legs catching on the table causing his body to topple backward.

Horn lighting instantly, Cadence caught him in a blue stretcher before sliding him onto the cushion beside her. “We’ll just take the food thank you,” Cadence said with a smile, a harsh tone conveying her true feelings.

Placing the chocolate on the table, the pink-maned mare leaned toward Cadence, locking her yellow eyes with the alicorn’s pink ones. “I can service you as well sexy, I never leave a pony lonely.”

Cadence edged the mare away with her hoof and glare, “Just the food, nothing else.” Wordlessly, the barmare turned and stepped away. Azure rump swinging from side to side as her pink tail danced over it.

“So what have you two been doing all day?” Shining questioned, seemingly unfazed by the event as he stuffed slice after slice of chocolate down his gullet.

Kneading her forehead with her hoof, Cadence sighed, “Doesn’t that bother you?”

Tipping the remainder of the plate down his throat, Shining’s brow creased with confusion. “Does what bother me?”

“How that mare just tried to seduce me, and you.”

Shining twisted his head round, staring at the empty space where the barmare had stood previously. “That happened? All I can remember is her bringing the chocolate over, the rest is fuzzy.”

Jaw frozen for a moment, Cadence was lost for words. “You-” Her shoulders shook, the movement bubbling up her neck and bursting from her mouth as a chuckle. “Oh Shining, you can be so silly sometimes.” Taking his snout between her hooves, she turned him to face her and pressed their lips together.

Looking onward, Cloud’s gaze was briefly glued to their lips before his eyes dropped to the table. His hooves fumbled awkwardly, waiting for the moment to pass. Glancing back up, he found their muzzled still pressed together, “Should I just go?”

Upon hearing the voice, Cadence quickly pulled away, covering her blush with a foreleg. “Oh, sorry. I guess I forgot you were there for a second.” Clearing her throat with a cough, she rotated her body back to face Cloud. “Now that Shining’s here we can start planning what you’re going to do tonight Cloud.”

“Planning?” His face twisted with worry. “I thought you said just to be myself and I’d win her over.”

“Well,” Cadence’s eyes rolled into her head as she thought, How do I explain this in the nicest way? “Being yourself is usually the best thing to do, and I’m sure if you had the time she eventually would grow to like you, but, you’ve only got one night. You need to make an impact on her.”

Lowering his gaze, Cloud felt a smile spreading his lips. “Just like when I tried to arrange a treasure hunt for her, except without the failure.”

“Something like that, yes, but different, something Skylight would actually enjoy.” Bringing both hooves to her chin, Cadence narrowed her eyes. “We know she likes flying, anything else?” She flicked her eyes from Cloud to Shining, both stallions shaking their heads.

“She did say she wanted to protect Equestria,” Shining suggested after a few moments of silence.

“True, but how can we plan a date around that?” Sighing, Cadence pushed her fringe backward. “Well, it looks like our only option is getting your wings working again Cloud.” Meeting his eyes, she pushed a hopeful smile onto her lips. “How did you attempts at flight go last night? Any luck?”

Looking down at his injured wing, Cloud shook his head slowly. “I can get a little bit off of the ground, but any more than a few beats of my wounded wing is too painful to bare.”

“You’ve got to go outside and keep trying then.”

Taking one last look at the bandaged tip of his wing, Cloud lifted his desperate eyes to meet Cadence’s, voice strained as he pleaded. “There must be something else she likes, another way I can win her heart?”

“Maybe if it were another mare we were talking about, one I knew better, then you’d have another option.” Cadence closed her eyes for a moment, replaying the previous night’s conversation over in her mind. I only like him for his wings. “But with Skylight, I think this may be your only way in.”

“If it really is the only way.” Cloud climbed to his hooves and adjusted his injured wing before walking toward the door, leaving Shining and Cadence to follow.

They stepped out into cool shade, the tavern blocking the mid-afternoon sun. In the open space before them stood Cloud, his majestic wings spread wide, casting a shadow large enough to cover a dozen ponies.

“They really are amazing, aren’t they Cadence?” Shining whispered with wide eyes as he watched Cloud slowly pulled his wings downward, causing clouds of dust to explode into the air.

“I think I can understand why Skylight fell for them.” Shaking her head, Cadence thought back to the two playful pegasi, dancing through the sky. A soaring eagle chasing a tiny sparrow as it zipped just out of reach. “I just hope they have something else in common.”

Bending his hind legs and lifting his eyes to the sky, Cloud’s winds rose once again. The ends of his feathers twitched as he paused for a moment, a white statue, before springing into the air and beating his wings.

A sharp gasp cut through the storm of dust that exploded as Cloud lifted off. He was hidden in the brown mist for a moment before rising from it, one side of his body tilted toward the ground as his injured wing struggled to stay afloat. One more beat and he was falling, gliding to the dirt in wide circles before landing softly.

“Are you okay?” Cadence called, tone stricken with worry, as she and Shining rushed over to Cloud.

His face was strained with pain as he gently folded the hurt wing away, wincing throughout the process. Once it was tucked to his side he spoke, “I’m fine, I just need a little rest before I give it another go.”

Looking to the side, Cadence met Shining’s eye and found the same worry there that she felt. “Are you sure you should be doing this?”

“You-” Cloud paused, staring at Cadence for a moment, studying her features. “You were the one who told me to do this. You said this would be the only way to win her over.”

“I did,” Cadence spoke slowly, weighing each word carefully as not to wound the pegasus further. “But that was before I knew how painful it is for you to fly. Why don’t you just wait until you’ve healed?”

Shaking his head, Cloud’s eyes dropped to the dirt. “I was planning on doing that Cadence, but you arranged this thing with Skylight. You arranged my one and only shot with her.”

“Oh, yes. I did.” The words dribbled from Cadence’s lips as she fell backward to sit on her rump. Silence held the conversation for some time as she roamed the surroundings with her eyes, walking up the tall stone tower, leaping across rooftops. “I’m sorry for all this Cloud,” She said eventually.

“Don’t be.” Reaching out with his good wing, Cloud touched Cadence on the shoulder, drawing her eyes to him. “I know I’ve said this before, and even though you’ve put me in this difficult situation I’ll say it again. What you’ve done over these last few days has changed my life, and I’m beyond thankful for it. So don’t be sorry, be glad that you’ve helped one colt in a big way.”

“All this talk is touching,” Shining cut in as he gazed up at the sky. “But it’s getting closer and closer to nightfall and you still can’t fly.”

“Right.” Cadence stood, pacing back and forth as she spoke. “We can have this kind of talk later, but for now we need to figure out something for your date Cloud.” She turned to Shining, question creasing her brow. “Do you know any healing spells Shining?”

Shining chuckled, shaking his head. “If I knew any we wouldn’t still be in this situation, but maybe.” His eyes widened as he twisted round and dashed away. “I’ll be right back!”

“Well, I guess we’ll just wait until he get back.” Sitting back down, Cadence hummed softly as she thought. Eventually she stood, gasping. “I might just have an idea. Cloud, can you open your hurt wing?”

Obedient, Cloud spread one of his white beasts, corner of his eyes twitching slightly as he did so. Lighting her horn, Cadence focused on the injured tip, coating the feathers in her blue glow, strengthening the broken bones beneath. “Now give flying a go.”

Cloud nodded before extending his other wing and leaping into the air, choking Cadence in dust. Higher and higher he climbed, no gasps of pain bursting from his lips, each wing supporting his small frame easily. Dropping one wing, he turned back and glided down to Cadence, tucking his wings away after he landed.

“Well, how was it?” Cadence questioned, a wide grin showing her teeth.

To her surprise, Cloud’s muzzle failed to mirror her joy. Instead it held a small smile, his eyes lowered as he spoke. “It’s great Cadence, feeling almost like brand new wing besides the weird tingling. The only problem is it won’t work.”

“Why not?”

“I don’t know exactly what terms you and Skylight agreed on for this date, but somehow I don’t think she’ll appreciate my wingtip glowing blue and constantly ringing.”

“Oh, yes. Maybe I can-”

“I’ve got it!” Shining’s call cut off Cadence’s words, both ponies turning to find the unicorn charging at them, yellow saddlebags hung over either side. He stopped next to them, panting for a moment before he grasped the bags in his magic.

“What in my bags could possibly help Cloud?” Cadence questioned, mentally checking off each of her belongings, searching for one that could be useful.

Shining took a deep breath before he spoke, the words coming out as a burst of air, “The itinerary!” He pulled the stack of paper from one pocket and passed it into Cadence’s magic before lowering his head, his back rising and falling as he recovered.

Holding up the papers, Cadence flipped through a few, shaking her head. “I still don’t see how this can help us, what in here would mend a broken wing?”

Blowing one final breath from his lungs, Shining lifted his head. “I was thinking, if Celestia put spell in that for shelter and somewhere to sleep, why wouldn’t she write a healing spell down?”

“Well, I guess we’ve got no other choice.” Cadence split the pile, passing a lesser chunk to Shining before turning to Cloud. “Do you think you can help look for a spell?”

“I’d like to, but I don’t really know what to look for.”

Dividing the stack once again, Cadence held a bunch of papers for Cloud. “Just look for any symbols you don’t understand. All spells are written in Old Equestrian.” The stack secure in his wing, Cadence sat herself, eyes racing down page after page as she searched.

The trio grew hot sitting in the sun, so they moved under the shade of the tavern to shuffle papers. “I think I’ve found something,” Cloud whispered eventually, his voice so soft he had to repeat himself before he caught the attention of either pony.

Shining lifted his head, grasping the page Cloud held out with his magic. “Let me have a look.” One glance at the string of strange symbols had Shining shaking his head. “No, that’s just a spell for short term wing-” Biting his tongue, he reread the spell. “Wings, maybe this’ll work. Can you stand up Cloud?”

Both stallions rose to their hooves, Shining’s head tilted down as he studied the incantation, Cloud idly kicking his hoof into the dirt. The movement drew Cadence out from her trance-like studying. “Did you find the spell?”

“I might work,” Shining mumbled, his eyes moving back and forth as he read and reread line after line of symbols. “But I don’t know if a spell like this will even work on pegasi.” A few moments later he lifted his head. “Are you ready?”

Upon Cloud’s nod Shining lit his horn, concentrating his blue glow around Cloud’s back as he murmured the spell under his breath. Ethereal feathers sprouted from the blue mounds, growing and widening into wings.

Tilting his head to the side, Cloud stared at the blue appendage beside his cheek, jaw hanging wide as he slowly pulled it downward. The wings curled close to him as he twirled, admiring the ghostly blue trail they left in the dim light. “This is amazing, but like I said, the blue glow gives it away a little.”

The smile on Cadence’s muzzle faded as she nodded. “He’s right, as well as the fact that Skylight likes his wings. I think a different, smaller pair of wings would be a deal breaker.” Lighting her horn, she dispelled Shining’s magic, leaving Cloud with his abnormally large wings once more. “Now let’s keep searching.”

As they flipped through page after page the sun slowly fell asleep, fading over the horizon and taking its warm orange glow with it. The sky was almost completely black by the time Cadence called out, “I’ve got it!”

The two stallions looked up from their piles to find Cadence standing, a single page surrounded in blue before her snout. “Incase I cannot protect you,” She read aloud as she stepped over to Cloud. He made an effort to stand before a pink hoof signalled him otherwise. “It says you need to lie down for this, apparently the healing process is very draining.”

Pink eyelids lowered as Cadence sparked the magic in her horn, a thread of blue leaping from the tip and cocooning Cloud’s wing. Her legs shifted, widening her stance as she frantically whispered incoherent words under her breath.

More and more energy poured through the link, a torrent of magic running from horn to wing. Shining stood like a statue, only his eyes moving, following the blue as it lit up the evening.

Pop! Like wood cracking the sound burst from Cloud’s wing, the pegasus wincing briefly as he felt bones realigning and cartilage stitching itself back together.

The noise met Shining’s ears but passed right through, his mind focused entirely on the pony before his eyes. Dashing forward, he extended a foreleg around the falling Cadence, propping her limp form up against his own. “Maybe you were supposed to be lying down,” He whispered softly into her ear as he lowered her to the ground.

“Did I do something wrong?” Cloud sat still, teeth gritted as he stared at the unconscious pony cuddled against Shining.

“No.” Shaking his head, Shining chuckled. “I have a feeling that this spell is far more powerful than Cadence predicted, draining a lot of her energy. I don’t think she’ll be awake for a while.”

Cloud’s eyes dropped to the dirt, his lips moving wordlessly for a few moments before he spoke. “I’m sorry, is there anything I can do to help?”

Smiling, Shining glanced up at the sky, shaking his head. “It wasn’t your fault, and you’ve got a date soon. I’ll take her to bed, you go astound Skylight with those wings, I know it’s what Cadence would’ve wanted you to do.”

“Uh, yeah.” Cloud turned away, spreading his wings before twisting his head back. “I’ll see the you two tomorrow then? In the tavern?”

Laughter burst from Shining’s lips, fading into a soft chuckle. “If you really have nothing else to do tomorrow, we’ll meet you there, but I hope you have some other pony wanting your time by tomorrow morning.”

“Oh, yes. I’ll see you, some time, then.” Taking another step, Cloud spread his wings to the fullest before leaping from the ground and pushing the air beneath him.

Shining stood still briefly, watching the pegasus boom through the night sky, a faint trail of dust following. “Let’s get you to bed now,” He whispered to Cadence as he bent down next to her. Once he had lifted her unconscious body onto his back, Shining found himself chuckling again. “I hope you can make this work Cloud.”

★★★

“Is your wing okay?”

The words burst from Cadence’s lips as she woke, her final memories a haze of glowing and a dull ache in her head. Glancing at her surroundings she felt the same pain, like someone had driven a horn into her head. “Ow.”

She was in the stone room that held their belongings, the glowing mattress holding her body off the cool floor. Lifting her foreleg, Cadence heard the crinkle of paper and felt it slip underneath her hoof.

Lifting the page before her snout, she lit her horn to illuminate its contents. Lines of letters singed into the paper met her eyes, forming a message. “If I’m not with you when you wake I’ll be in the tavern with Cloud.” She read aloud.

What happened last night? Cadence thought as she massaged her forehead with both hooves, rubbing the memories back into her mind. Bit by bit it dripped in, Cloud’s broken wing, her ultimatum with Skylight, their frantic rush to fix Cloud, until the dam burst and the explosion of images overflowed.

A giggle burst from Cadence’s lips, racking her body as she rolled across the mattress, laughter filling the air. I really need to read spells better. When she had finally recovered she sighed and lay still, pondering what to do next.

What did that note say again? Frantically, she flipped back onto her belly, grasping the crinkled note in her magic and unfolding it. If I’m not with you when you wake I’ll be in the tavern with Cloud. “Oh no.”

Springing to her hooves, Cadence dashed for the door, her shoulder scraping against the frame as she burst into the sunlight. “Ouch.” Stopping for a moment, she glanced up at the sun. It’s almost noon already?

Her legs moved faster than she could have believed as she crashed through the tavern door, colliding with another pony on the other side. “Sorry,” Cadence called back without stopping. The tables seemed to be more packed than ever as she dodged between pony after pony, fighting through the maze of bodies toward the corner table.

“Oh no.” The sight that met her eyes stopped Cadence in her tracks. Cloud and Shining sat across from each other chatting idly. Cadence’s hoofsteps drew their attention to her. “What happened? What went wrong?”

A smile spread across Cloud’s muzzle, “Cadence, I think you’re mis-”

“No,” She but in, shaking her head. “Before you tell me what happened I need to say sorry. I blew your one shot with the mare of your dreams before you were ready. I know you said I shouldn’t feel bad about it but I just can’t help but wonder if maybe I had have left you alone you would have eventually found your own way to be with her. Forcing relationships like I do isn’t good for the ponies involved and I think I’ve learnt-”

Cadence’s words were muffled into a mumble as soft feathers covered her lips, a wing curving round from behind. “Do you want some food or am I going to shove it down your throat for you?” The voice came with the feeling of a leg over her shoulder.

Looking down, Cadence’s vision was filled with sky-blue feathers. She turned her head to the pony beside her, a short white mane and the soft curve of a mare’s snout meeting Cadence’s eyes. “Skylight?”

“Sit down Cadence, I know you’re hungry.” Skirting around Cadence, Skylight settled in beside Cloud. The glasses balanced on one of her wings were slid onto the table and passed out to four places. A small bowl of salad and a loaf of bread balanced on her other wing deposited at the empty space beside Shining.

“So your date went well?” Cadence mumbled as she sat, eyes wide open as she watched Cloud kiss Skylight on the cheek.

A grin spread across Cloud’s face as he turned to face Cadence. “It went spectacularly actually. Thanks to your healing we were able to share a wonderful night of flying and talking, mostly flying though.” He opened his wing slightly, nudging Skylight with the outside of it.

“Yes, it was nice.” Skylight said after some coaxing, a hard smile on her lips. A few more prods of Cloud’s wing had her speaking again. “I must thank you. I never knew a pony who seemed so different could hold so many of the things I was searching for in a stallion.”

Cadence nodded along as she crunched through a sandwich of lettuce, tomato and cucumber, half choking as she swallowed the greedy mouthful. “What exactly do you mean?”

“I already knew Cloud could fly.” Skylight’s eyes flicked down to Cloud’s wings for a moment, her breathing briefly growing heavier. “I never knew he loved the military so much, we share many of the same childhood dreams, as well as plans for the future.”

The new couple shared a glance and a smile before turning back to Cadence and Shining. Cloud broke the silence first. “We talked about something important last night and-”

“We’d like to accept that offer Cadence.”

“If it’s still available.”

Turning to Cadence, Shining found her mouth full and question lining her features. He swung his eyes back to meet Skylight’s. “What offer?”

“The first night you two were here Cadence asked if I’d come to the Dragon Lands with you. Are you two not going there anymore?”

A gasp burst from Cadence’s lips as she gulped down the last of her late breakfast. She nodded as she recovered, chest heaving with deep breaths. “That offer.” She chuckled softly. “Well, to be honest, I completely forgot about it after you refused it so harshly, but yes, that is our next destination and,” She turned to Shining.

One of his hooves was beckoning her closer. Leaning her ear toward his muzzle, Cadence strained to hear Shining’s whispers. “If they come with us, where are they going to sleep?”

Nodding, Cadence shifted her attention back to Cloud and Skylight. “That’s a good question actually. What do you two have in the way of camping supplies?” Beside her she heard Shining’s hoof impact against his forehead.

“Don’t worry about us,” Cloud assured. “There’s plenty of spare equipment lying around here, as well as enough backup rations to last us years. Now if you’d excuse us, someone’s wings are getting a little itchy.”

The pair of pegasi climbed to their hooves quickly before stepping toward the door. As Cadence trailed them with her eyes, she chuckled as the pink-maned barmare called them over, both Cloud and Skylight obviously uncomfortable as she oogled them.

“Cadence?” Shining’s voice caught her attention, pulling her head to face him. “You didn’t exactly get what I meant when I asked where they’re going to sleep.”

“Well what did you mean?”

Blue eyes flicked from side to side for a moment before Shining leant close to Cadence. “You know how we like to have fun at night? That might be a little difficult with two other ponies sleeping nearby.”

Cadence’s lips formed an O and her eyes widened before she forced a smile to her face. “I’m sure we can go without for a few days. How long can it take to get to the Dragon Lands anyway?”

“Celestia gave us three months.”

The day passed slowly as Cadence and Shining strolled idly round the mountain top, enjoying the view over the surrounding plains. After several circuits they settled in a shady spot behind the tavern, Cadence’s wing open over Shining’s back, her head curled into his neck.

“It’s that time again isn’t it?” Cadence spoke softly, nuzzling Shining as she did so.

Gently stroking her cheek with his hoof, Shining nodded. “I’m glad though, without Cloud or Skylight this place isn’t somewhere I’d like to stay for long.”

“Yeah. I’ll still miss the town however. It really is quite a beautiful place, but like Skylight said, the ponies here don’t quite match up.”

The sound of wind under wings interrupted their thoughts and drew their eyes to the sky, where Cloud and Skylight descended toward them, Cloud’s hooves sounding against the ground as he landed.

“We looked everywhere for you,” Skylight called down without landing, content instead to hover above the ground. “Ready to leave?”

Cadence and Shining shared a look for a moment before Cadence spoke. “Do you two already have everything packed up?”

Nodding, Skylight looped through the air, her belly brushing across Cloud’s ears. A smile spread the stallions lips wider, his eyes briefly following Skylight’s flight before returning to Cadence and Shining. “She really wants to get out of here as soon as she can, I hope it’s not too much of a hassle.”

“Not at all,” Cadence said, ducking out of the way as Skylight swooped. “We were actually thinking of packing up as well.” Standing, she nudged Shining with her hoof. “Just give us a moment to gather our things and we’ll meet you back here.”

“Meet us by the tower.” The words zipped by as Skylight skimmed over their heads before lifting back up into the sky for another pass. A rush of air warned of her coming, the trio on the ground bracing themselves. “Come back up here Cloud.”

“I’ll see you two soon.” Cloud dipped his head before leaping into the air and snapping his wings open, one flap rocketing his body skyward.

Cadence paused to watch the two pegasi corkscrew round each other for a moment, Shining wrapping a foreleg over her withers as he joined her. “It really is amazing what they can do with those wings isn’t it?”

“Yeah,” Cadence glanced back at her own pair as she spoke. “I makes me want to learn how myself. I imagine it would be thrilling to speed through the air like that.”

Blue eyes rolled up into Shining’s head as he thought back to Skylight carrying him up the mountain, the same sick feeling crept back into his stomach once again. “If that’s what you find fun, but I’d rather just stay on the ground. Anyway, we should get packing.”

It only took a few moments to pack the little possessions Shining and Cadence had. The ethereal tent dissipated with a thought, leaving only the soft scent of sex as a sign of their stay in the stone building.

At the tower they found Cloud sitting on the dirt as Skylight circled lazily above his head. Strapped to their backs were bags twice the size of saddlebags, kept out of the way of wings. Skylight landed as Shining and Cadence neared them, flicking a large bundle wrapped in plain cream cloth in their direction.

“What’s this?” Cadence questioned as she caught the package in her magic, surprised at the weight, or lack of it.

A smirk flashed across Skylight’s lips before her usual stern expression swallowed it. “Just some food and drink we borrowed from the supplies, nothing they won’t miss. Cloud thought you two might need some, seeing how much Shining eats.”

Cadence shook her head as she bit through the strings that held the cloth together, allowing the contents to spill into her blue glow. Once she had distributed everything between her and Shining’s saddlebags she turned back to Skylight. “Now how do we get off of this mountain?”

“We fly.” Opening her wings with a snap, Skylight leapt into the air, Cloud following moments after.

Turning his side toward the airborne pair, Shining magically lifted his saddlebag, baring the plain expanse of white. “I didn’t magically grow wings, how am I going to fly?”

Cloud’s smile faltered, dropping back to the ground as his features twisted with confusion. “I thought you could just use those magical wings, the ones you gave me last night?”

“Oh,” Shining looked toward Cadence’s saddlebags, willing the pages inside to float out. “I’ve never used that spell before,” He murmured, flicking through the pages. “Even if I could use those wings, I don’t know how long they’ll last. What if I just fall out of the sky halfway down the mountain?”

Cadence stepped forward, nodding in agreement with Shining. “And I could barely fly halfway up this mountain, I don’t know if I’ll be able to make the whole flight back down. Isn’t there another way, a path we can walk down?”

“There isn’t.” Skylight landed beside Cloud, a wide grin on her lips. “Now get those wings warmed up, you don’t want to pull a muscle on the way down.”

Skylight almost died of laughter as she watched Shining toy with his magical wings, slamming his snout into the dirt until it was stained brown. Eventually he managed to stay airborne for more than a few moments, lopsided beats allowing him to maintain a shaky altitude.

“Time to go,” Skylight announced once she noticed Shining hovering. Springing into the air herself, she zoomed out over the mountain edge before looping back, zipping right past Shining and Cadence’s noses, messing their manes with a blast of air.

The descent was slow and shaky for Shining, his body tipping from side to side as as he struggled to keep his wings beating with the same strength. Cadence was thankful for the slow pace, her limited flying experience allowing her to easily float beside him as Cloud and Skylight looped and twirled around them, chasing each other through the sky.

“Can we stop for a moment?” Shining called out when they were about halfway down the mountainside, diving down toward the ground without waiting for a response.

Skylight caught Shining’s rapidly accelerating descent out of the corner of her eye. “That idiot.” Snapping her wings to her side, she fell after him.

Realising the ground was coming up too quickly, Shining beat his painful wings in panic, wincing as the muscles in his shoulders and along his back screamed at him. His mouth opened to yell, “Help m-”

A bullet of blue smashed into Shining’s side, plucking him from midair and pulling him back up into the sky. Skylight came up beside Cadence with a grin on her face, Shining held in her grasp. “Cloud told me about the drills you and Shining put him through, I’ll give Shining some flight lessons as payback.”

“Please no,” Shining groaned from underneath her, his sides vacant of any magical wings. “After this flight I’m never getting off the ground again.”

Cadence chuckled, “Well, as much as I love the sentiment, I do have to agree with Shining. We won’t be flying much after this.”

Confusion lined Skylight’s brow, “We are heading for The Dragon Lands?” Cadence nodded. “Then he’s going to have to learn how to fly, or were you two going to walk?”

“We are going to walk,” Shining called from underneath Skylight. “I don’t care what you say, flying is a terrible thing. Cadence and I decided on walking the whole way, something about getting to know each other better.”

“Yes,” Cadence nodded at Shining’s strained words. “Princess Celestia planned for us to take three months to travel to The Dragon Lands, and I think she had a reason behind it. I think she wants Shining and I to grow closer throughout the journey, and it’s a great opportunity for you and Cloud to do the same.”

Closing her eyes for a moment, Skylight shook her head. “A long walk isn’t the kind of bonding I like to do. I’d prefer to soar through the sky with him, that’s how you get to know a pegasus.” A smile spread across her lips as she spoke the final words.

“If you call almost falling to my death, then having my breath kicked out of me by a crazy pegasus okay. Then yes.”

Cloud chuckled softly. “Sorry I didn’t come over sooner. I got a little lost in my flying, trying out a new trick.”

“I’ve been trying to teach him how to spin,” Skylight said, half laughing. “But he can’t manage to tuck those massive wings in quickly enough to roll his body round, and Cadence,” She turned her head to face the alicorn. “Going slowly should be fine, gives me more time to teach Cloud how to fly properly.”

The remainder of the flight down was slow going, Skylight’s burden restricting her from going and faster and Cloud content to soar by her side.

“Finally!” Shining leapt from Skylight’s hold as the ground neared. Rolling around on the dirt, he blew up a cloud of dust around him. “I said last time I’d never fly again, but this time it’s for sure. I’m sticking with the ground forever.”

Cadence chuckled as she watched him, silently grateful for the firm dirt beneath her hooves. Shading her eyes, she peered up at the sun. “Well it looks like we’ve still got some time before nightfall,” She turned to the other three ponies. “Should we keep traveling or just rest a while?”

Pausing from his rolling, Shining lifted his head. “Can we rest? My whole back and shoulders hurt from that flight.”

Skylight and Cloud shared a look before laughing. “If Shining really needs to rest I don’t mind waiting till tomorrow,” Cloud said, turning to Skylight. “Why don’t we go fly some more? My wings are itching to get back up there.”

One last look at Shining and Skylight turned away, bending her forelegs and spreading sky-blue wings. “You better do it right this time.” She left her words behind as she sprung into the air, a cloud of dust erupting where she once stood. Cloud took off behind her, a few beats of his monstrous wings easily closing the distance.

Silence joined the remaining two ponies, Cadence watching the pair of pegasi dance between the clouds. Shining was still splayed out on his back, eyes closed as he daydreamed of treats.

“Is there anything to eat?” He eventually questioned, breaking Cadence from her observative trance.

Cadence scrunched her eyes tight, pulling herself out of her thoughts. “Well there is the food that Cloud and Skylight gave us, I don’t know what exactly it is however.” Turning to her bag, she flipped open the flap with her magic and pulled the parcels of cloth from within. “Why don’t you look through your bag as well, I’m sure there’s plenty of food in there.”

Eyes flicking open, Shining rolled onto his stomach and assaulted the white saddlebags with his snout, burying it deep inside. “Whatever they got for us, it smells amazing.”

Looking over at Shining, a giggle burst from Cadence’s lips as she noticed his head was no more, a saddlebag was attached to his neck in its place. “Just grab whatever smells best and pull it out, I’m getting a little hungry myself.”

The bag rustled for while longer as Shining dug around, searching for one scent. “This,” He finally announced, voice muffled as he pulled a cloth bundle out with his teeth and held it before Cadence like a dog with a ball.

“Let’s see what this is.” Cadence’s horn lit up with blue as she grasped the parcel from Shining before gently unfolding the material that bound it. Her eyes widened as they focused on the items inside. “How did she manage to get these?”

In her magical glow a carved wooden bowl hovered, the bowl filled to the brim with small circular pastries, a thin layer of chocolate coating the top. “What’s so special about them?” Shining asked as he plucked one from the bowl with his own magic. “They just look like pastries to me.”

Cadence gulped, wiping the small overflow of saliva from the corner of her mouth. “They aren’t just any pastries, try one.” She watched as Shining bit into one hesitantly, his whole body pausing as he chewed the mouthful.

“They’re amazing.” Grasping the wooden bowl, Shining stuffed two more into his mouth before Cadence pushed him away. He stared at her sullenly as she pulled the remaining sweets away, a smudge of cream in the corner of his mouth making Cadence laugh.

“Whether it’s chocolate or eclairs you really can’t control yourself can you?” She giggled again as he shook his head, staring at her, pleading with his eyes like a colt who had had his toys taken away. “Fine, you can have one more.”

Shining’s eyes lit up as Cadence held on of the eclairs before his lips with her magic, his tongue grasping the treat out the air and pushing it down his throat before he could even taste it.

Sitting back onto her haunches, Cadence sighed as she stared at the bowl and its contents. “Seeing these things really takes me back, I have so many great memories involving them.” She took one in her magic and held it before her snout, eyelids closing as she breathed in the aroma.

“What are you talking about? I’ve never seen you eating these before.” Shining’s features were lined with mock confusion as he leant toward the unaware Cadence, muzzle reaching out to grasp another creamy treat.

Without opening her eyes, Cadence batted Shining away with her hoof, giggling as she heard him wince. “Well that’s because I used to eat them when I was a little filly, before I even knew a world existed outside of the palace. Celestia and I ate them all the time, there was barely a meal without eclairs. Then one day they all simply vanished, just like my cakes.... You don’t think.”

She opened her eyes to find Shining lying back on the ground, laughter shaking his body. His lips moved each time he choked back the laughter, as if he were trying to speak. “The,” He finally gasped. “Princess, she really, has a, problem.” The last word sent another burst of laughter through his body, Cadence noticing the corners of his eyes wetting.

Cadence stared at him silently, an amused expression on her features. Eventually she shook her head, “It really isn’t that funny, it seems like she struggles with her food just as much as you would without my help.”

Clenching his eyes shut, Shining breathed deeply in attempt to slow the laughter. Recovered enough to sit up, he met Cadence’s questioning gaze. “Cadence, the princess is a greater lover of food than I will ever be. The fact that she’s outlawed-” A spurt of laughter cut of his words. “That she’s outlawed almost every sweet food from the palace must be a little bit funny to you.”

“Well,” A smile spread across Cadence’s muzzle, eyes lighting up as her mind worked. “If you think it’s so funny, why don’t you refrain from eating anything sweet until we get to The Dragon Lands?”

The smile on Shining’s face instantly vanished, his breathing returning to normal as he leant close to Cadence. “But, that’s, three months. I’ll die if I can’t eat anything.”

“I’m sure Skylight and Cloud gave us plenty of other food.” She lifted the flap of Shining’s saddlebag once again, pulling another cloth-wrapped package from within and unwrapping it. “They can’t have possibly just-” The sight before Cadence stilled her tongue, her eyes widening briefly before she quickly rewrapped the slab of chocolate. “Maybe I just got lucky with that one, surely the next one.”

Shining’s jaw hung lower and lower as Cadence unfolded and refolded parcel after parcel of pastries and chocolate and sweets. A drop of drool on his lolling tongue built until it fell to the dirt below, a waterfall of saliva soon following.

Reaching into the bag once again, Cadence’s hoof found it empty. “This can’t be right.” She looked to her other side where the pile of cloth packages sat. “Well then, I guess restricting your sweets won’t work.” Sighing heavily, she levitated them one by one back over her head and into Shining’s bags, a rainbow of different colored material.

A smile crept back into Shining’s face, “I guess so, it’s just too bad I have to eat,” He paused to wipe drool from his lips.“All of those tasty things.” His eyes wandered over to his saddlebags, everything fading out of focus as Shining recalled the countless treats Cadence had just unwrapped.

“Actually, I’ve got a better idea.” The smile on Shining’s lips leapt to Cadence’s, twisting her muzzle into a wicked grin. “If I can’t restrict what you eat, I’ll just restrict how much. Till we get to the Dragon Lands you can only eat as much as I do.”

“But Cadence, I’m a hard working stallion, I need twice as much food as you.”

Laughter burst from Cadence’s lips as she watched Shining widen his eyes and lower his snout. “Don’t give me that begging look. If you want to poke fun at how much Celestia eats, you need to know how desperate your body gets when the food you love is sitting right in front of you, but you can’t have any of it.”

“Please, I won’t make fun of the princess ever again.”

“I’m glad to hear that.”

Shining’s eyes widened at Cadence’s words, his neck straightening and tongue lolling out once again. “Great, can i have some more of those eclairs now?”

Bringing her hoof to her lips, Cadence giggled again. “I never said that would get you out of our deal.” Standing, she glanced at their surroundings. “Now why don’t we look for a place to set up camp before Cloud and Skylight return.”

The plains below the mountain provided more than enough firm, flat ground for the couple to set up their ethereal campsite. It’s glowing walls functioned as a beacon for the returning pegasi once night fell.

Cloud and Skylight were all giggles and smiles as they landed, face red and bodies slick with sweat. “That’s a wonderful looking tent,” Cloud commented as he sat across the fire from Cadence and Shining. “Is there any chance we could get one.”

“We’ll be fine,” Skylight’s voice drew everyone’s attention as she sat beside Cloud, eyeing the tent behind Shining. “I couldn’t sleep with all that glowing. The standard issue tent will be fine for me.”

Cadence nodded, It seems they want their privacy. “Why don’t you two set up your tent while I prepare dinner.” Dipping her magical grasp inside Shining’s saddlebags, the memory of its contents came to her mind. “Oh, Skylight?”

The pegasus turned from her own bag, “Yes?”

“Do you have any food that isn’t chocolate and pastries?” Cadence’s lips held a weak smile. Please say yes.

“I don’t know, I just grabbed whatever was there.” Digging her wing into her bag, Skylight pulled out a package of cloth, her other wing unfolded it. Holding the bundle of apple and cinnamon pies up, she looked back to Cadence. “What’s wrong with this?”

Climbing to her hooves, Cadence wrapped the stack of pies in her magic as she stepped toward Skylight. “I was just thinking it would be good if we could have a healthy selection of food on this trip, not these, fattening foods.”

Humour filled Skylight’s eyes as she chuckled. “If you’re worried about putting on weight, don’t be. With the amount of walking you’ll be doing you’ll be fine.” She turned back to her bags before Cadence could think of what to say next.

Sighing, Cadence met Shining’s eyes, shaking her head at the sly smile on his lips. “Don’t think you’ve gotten out of our deal.” She magically drew one of the parcels of food from her saddlebags before unwrapping it. Inside was the half eaten bowl of eclairs. “Well, I guess this is dinner.”

Cadence watched Shining carefully as the four ponies ate, making sure the only food that passed between his lips was what she gave him. The two pegasi were famished, finishing off the bowl of eclairs with ease as well as two other packages of chocolate-filled pastries.

“Why aren’t you eating much Shining?” Skylight mentioned after her and Cloud had finished their meal. “Usually you eat more in one night than I do in a week.”

Clearing her throat, Cadence drew the circle’s attention before a word could leave Shining’s lips. “That’s because he has decided to eat a little less for a while, to lose some weight.”

A smile grew across Skylight’s muzzle before bursting out as laughter. “That’s not how you lose weight.” Leaning slightly to one side, she opened a wing. “Flying is how to lose weight, or any other exercise.”

“That is true,” Cadence nodded slowly, eyes rolling up into her head as she struggled for an explanation. “But, Shining and I have been walking for many weeks, and I think he’s actually gotten fatter.”

“Hey!” Shining protested before looking down at his belly. “I’ve just got a thick coat.”

Skylight leant closer to Shining and Cadence, the ethereal flames of the fire enveloping her snout, dancing before her eyes. “That’s because walking isn’t exercise, you need to run.”

Looking sideways, Cadence met Shining’s eyes, their features holding the same horrified expression. “We’ll be fine,” They both blurted simultaneously, much to Skylight amusement. “I’ll just stick with the eating less,” Shining finished, the dull ache in his back making itself more known.

A yawn escaped Skylight’s lips as she settled back beside Cloud. “And it’s time to get some rest.” She nuzzled her cheek against Cloud’s as she stood, his jaw stretching in a yawn as well.

“Me too,” Cloud breathed once his mouth was back under his control, wiping the moisture from the corner of his eye before rising to his hooves. “I’ll see you two tomorrow.”

“Really?” Lifting her eyes to the still sparsely populated sky, Cadence shook her head. “It’s still early, don’t you two want to stay up and talk a while?”

“No,” Skylight grasped her bag off the floor with a wing. “If I’m too tired to fly I’m too tired to stay up, and I still haven’t set up my tent.” Turning, she stepped away until the darkness swallowed her.

Cloud nodded. “Being up in the sky all day really saps the energy from you.” He grasped his own backpack before stepping into the darkness himself.

Did they just? Cadence narrowed her eyes, trying to peer into the darkness. Unable to make out anything, she lit her horn, spotlighting Cloud as he pulled a canvas tent from his bag. “Aren’t you two sharing a tent?” She called out.

Looking up, Cloud squinted at Cadence for a moment before answering. “Uh, no. We’ve only been together for a little more than a day. We’re still not that comfortable close to each other.”

“He’s right,” Skylight’s voice rung from the darkness, causing Cadence to swing her horn round to light up the sky-blue pegasus. “We’re not rushing into those things.”

“Oh,” Cadence’s eyes dropped and horn went dark. “I just thought, no, you two are right. I’m thinking too far ahead.” Lowering her head, she nestled into Shining’s neck, rubbing her thoughts into his fur.

“Do you want to go to sleep as well?” Shining whispered into her ear before burying his muzzle in her mane.

Cadence nodded slowly, allowing Shining to help her to her hooves. She leant against him as he snuffed out the fire and stepped toward their tent, I always make a mess of these things.

Gently, they sank into their glowing blue mattress, Cadence still cuddled into Shining, his head resting on hers. “I’m so stupid,” She murmured into his neck.

“Not at all,” He kissed her hair as he spoke, inhaling her scent. “You just want every other couple to be as close as we are, but you forget how long it took for us to get here. Remember when you first started babysitting Twilight?”

“She ran away and hid from me?”

Shining chuckled, “No, I mean the time after that, and the one after that. We didn’t jump straight to playing around in the bedroom. After Twilight went to bed we always spent the rest of the night playing board games.”

“That’s right. I remember always looking forward to babysitting Twilight, just so we could laugh together for an hour afterward.” Sighing, Cadence lifted her eyes to meet Shining’s, a smile filling her muzzle. “So Cloud and Skylight are still playing board games?”

“Mmhmm,” Shining lowered his snout as he nodded, spreading Cadence’s lips with his own, softly caressing her tongue with his. Breaking away, his kiss moved down her neck, along her back.

“Shining,” A pink hoof pushed Shining’s muzzle away from Cadence’s body. “We’re not alone in some abandoned house anymore. There are two ponies trying to sleep nearby.”

He widened his eyes, replacing his smile with pouting lips. “Come on Cadence, I’m sure they won’t notice.”

“Shining, no. If either of them hear even the slightest sound from us we’re completely exposed in a tent like this, and we both know how loud I can get.” Wrapping both of her forelegs around his neck, Cadence pulled his snout back toward her before brushing it against her own. “Now let’s get some sleep.”

The following few days were torture for Shining, his legs aching from the brisk pace Cloud and Skylight set as they cartwheeled through the sky, stomach gnawing at itself for want of more food.

Around them the landscape gradually changed, dirt hardening into stone, the flat plains rising to peaks and falling into valleys. Rivers that ran through every low point provided them with more water than they could ask for, the four ponies often ending their days with cool baths in the running water.

“I think this is a good place to stop for today,” Cadence announced as they came upon another stream, forced to put everything into her voice to reach the pegasi that danced above. Shrugging her saddlebags off, she wiped the sweat from her brow. “This is the best part of the day.”

Dashing forward, she leapt at the water, eyes closed as she allowed its icy embrace relieve her from the sun’s heat. A breath burst from her lips when she resurfaced, mouth moving to call Shining in. “Shi-”

A wave of water cut off her words, pushing between her lips. Shining popped up beside Cadence, a wide grin on his lips. She responded with a spurt of water, emptying her mouth. “At least warn me before you splash me like that.”

“Like this?” Shining dove at Cadence, tackling her under the water. After a moment the pair burst back up, giggling and gasping for breath. Her hair hung over her eyes, heavy with water. Pushing it aside, he stole a kiss from her lips.

Behind them the ground thumped. Turning, they found Cloud panting in a brown fog of dust, his white face flaming with red as he dumped a pair of pack on the dirt beside him. “I’ve been waiting for a swim all day.” He stepped slowly into the water, shivering as its cool touch chased away the burning heat that filled his body. “Oh, watch out.”

The instant he spoke a missile shot into the water beside Cadence and Shining, drenching all three ponies. Skylight surfaced after a few moments, a cheeky smile on her lips. “Did I get you?”

Pushing back her sagging mane with a hoof, Cadence shook her head. “You’re just as bad as Shining you know.”

“Are you going to tell me off just like Shining?” Skylight raised her brow, shifting one wing backward unnoticed by Cadence.

“N-” A burst of water cut off Cadence as it hit her full in the face, once again filling her open mouth. Like a water feature she shot it straight back out, the arc of water falling just shy of Skylight. “If you keep doing that I might have to limit your food as well.”

The following days passed by with the same up and down of hills and valleys, cool river water keeping the sun’s rays from driving them insane. Shining’s pains slowly faded away, at first the ache in his legs and eventually the one inside his stomach was forgotten for most of the day, only meals reminding him of the absence in his belly.

“Are you sure there’s not a river up ahead?” Cadence called up at Cloud.

He wiped the sweat from his brow before shaking his head. “Usually we see two or three every day, but we haven’t even glimpsed water today.” His flicked upward as Skylight yelled down at him words inaudible to Cadence. “She says she’s going to fly ahead for a while, see if it’s worth it to keep walking.”

“Okay, Shining and I will look for somewhere shady to set up camp.” Lowering her neck, she magically rubbed the strain from it before wiping her dripping muzzle with a wing. They continued along the stony path, searching the surrounding red-brown rock walls for any sign of shelter.

Cadence picked out a roomy indent with enough space to house both their tent and the others. “I’ll go light the fire outside so they can find us,” Cadence said once she had relieved herself of her saddlebags.

After some time Cloud descended to the ground beside Cadence, Skylight soon following. Both pegasi looked wounded, heads hanging low. Skylight broke the silence eventually. “We found something, but it wasn’t water. Some kind of orange liquid, I could feel the heat coming off it way up in the air. Cloud said it was lava.”

Her brow creasing for a moment, Cadence thought back to her studies of the Dragon Lands. The brief book on landscape Celestia had forced her to read just dancing round the edges of her memories. “That just means we’re on the border of the Dragon Lands now. They love to build their cities and town around it.”

“I thought it was supposed to take three months to get to the Dragon Lands?” Cloud rolled his eyes into his head, mouthing numbers as he counted the days past. “We can’t have been travelling for more than a month and a half.”

Cadence nodded, “Celestia did give us three months, but that started back in Ponyville, so you can add a week or so to the travelling time, and we haven’t gotten to our destination yet. We’re heading toward the capital of the Dragon Lands, Rockholm. I assume we still have quite a distance to cover before we reach it.”

“We should ration our water,” Skylight said, a hint of military commander in her voice. “We don’t know how scarce it could be in these lands.” She shrugged her pack from her back and unbuckled it with her wingtips, Cloud following suit.

A smile spread Cadence’s lips, “We don’t need to worry, I’m sure there’s a spell somewhere in the itinerary for this.” While she flipped through page after page, oohing and aahing as she came across spell after spell, the two pegasi set up their standard issue tents around the fire.

Skylight’s green and brown canvas tent shot up in the blink of an eye, a grin on her muzzle as she rushed to help Cloud with his identical white and grey one.

Head down, deciphering symbols and images, Cadence barely noticed the movement around her. Shining exiting the cave behind her and lightly kissing her on the cheek before joining the other two by the fire.

Surrounded in his blue was and assortment of pies and chocolates, Shining’s stomach begging for all of them. “Cadence, do you want to eat?” He called over at her, barely breaking her trance as she waved his voice away like a buzzing fly.

“Don’t worry about her.” Skylight plucked a few morsels of food out of the air with her wing. “She’s searching for some spell, she can eat later.”

Question lined Shining’s brow as he stared at the sweets floating in his magical grasp, their number quickly diminishing as Cloud stole his fair share from the sky. “But if she doesn’t have anything to eat, how can I?” Realisation lit up Shining’s eyes, his head tilting back as he lined the remaining morsels above his mouth.

“Are you sure you want to do this Shining?” Cloud whispered, glancing over at Cadence. “I wouldn’t want to be in your hooves it she finds out.”

Shining chuckled, the words, “She won’t,” leaving his mouth half-gargled before he silenced his horn.

To his surprise the chocolate and pastries didn’t collide with his tongue and slip down his gullet, instead they stayed suspended, held in mid-air by a blue glow. “I found the spell.” Cadence’s voice sent a gulp down Shining’s throat, his eyes flicking sideways to find Cadence stepping over to join them.

“I was just joking,” He blurted, looking to the two pegasi for support. “I wasn’t really going to eat it.” Warm relief spread through Shining’s body as Cadence’s lips touched against his cheek.

“I’m not going to punish you, I know how hard it is to ignore food like you’re doing right now.” She draped her wing over his withers as she sat, splitting the food in her glow and holding half before Shining’s mouth. “It’s something I’ve had to deal with everyday, for years now.”

He stared at her for a moment, jaw hanging loose as he digested her words. “You like food just as much as I do?”

Laughter burst from Cadence lips, “Maybe not as much as you do, but I could quite easily eat four times as much as this right now, but I don’t.”

“It’s because of the princess right?”

Cadence glanced across the fire, wary of the onlooking eyes and perked up ears. “Yes, ever since I was a filly I’ve had to be careful with my weight, Celestia said it was a problem all alicorns had to deal with. That’s why I’ve been so defensive of her when you joke about her weight, a few slip ups with my eating habits and that could be me, the fat princess.”

As he drunk in Cadence’s confession, Shining’s head lowered, I’ve been so stupid. Forcing himself to smile, he wrapped his foreleg round her neck before pulling her close for a kiss. “I’m sorry Cadence, I didn’t realise what I was saying before, can you forgive me.”

One look at his dopey smile and puppy dog eyes caused a chuckle to shake Cadence’s body, her muzzle leaning close to nuzzle against his. “Of course silly, I know you had no idea of the situation when you made those jokes. Now why don’t we have something to eat.”

Shining’s smile grew into a grin as he tore at the blueberry pie in his magical grasp, its rich juices running down his chin and dripping onto the stone below. The food in Cadence’s glow disappeared at a similar pace, albeit eaten with more manners.

Still staring at the recently made up couple, Skylight finally spoke up. “Next time you have a personal conversation, could you take it somewhere personal?”

“Oh,” Cadence mumbled through a mouthful of chocolate before swallowing. “Did that make you feel uncomfortable?”

“Yes. I don’t like sharing my private matters with other ponies and I don’t like it when they share them with me.”

“Well, I’m-”

“I wasn’t finished,” Skylight cut back in, gesturing at the cave behind Shining and Cadence with her hoof. “Cloud and I have also been included in another personal problem of yours, so we’re sleeping out here tonight, you will have the cave to yourselves.”

Cadence looked at her with question for a moment, “Other problem?” Her lips formed an O as realization struck her. “Oh that, I guess we do talk rather loudly about it a night.”

Beside her, Shining had a grin on his face, “Thank you so much, this food restriction has been enough to deal with, but going without both of my favourite things. Thank you.”

“Your welcome,” Skylight shook her head, a grimace on her lips. “Just be quiet tonight, and don’t bring anything too personal up, at least for one day.”

Silence joined the four ponies after Skylight finished speaking, the only sounds Cadence finishing her food and Cloud shifting his wings every few moments. Shining and Cadence cuddled against each other wordlessly, eyes locked as they rubbed snouts softly.

Eventually uncomfortableness got the best of Cloud, forcing words from his lips. “Do you all want to play a game?”

The sound of Cloud’s voice broke the other three ponies from their thoughts, pulling their attention to him. “What kind of game?” Cadence questioned.

“It’s a card game.” Twisting his body backward, Cloud dragged his pack before him with a wingtip, pulling out a long, ornate wooden box with his other wing. “I only ever got to play with myself at the army base, but I always used to play with my parents before then.”

The smile on Cadence’s lips widened as she heard the word card, countless memories of Celestia besting her in multiple games flooding back into her mind. “I used to play cards with Celestia as well, though I was never very good. What game are we going to play?”

Grasping the container in one wing, he pulled the lid off with the other before setting it on the dirt. “We only ever used to play one game, Kingdoms and Castles my parents called it.” Dipping a wing into the box, he pulled out a single pack of cards. “There’s four packs in here, but we only ever played with three. I don’t know if four players makes it any different.”

“With four players you team up in pairs, both defending the same castle” Shining explained. “That’s what makes the game so fun.”

Turning to face him, Cadence gripped his foreleg between hers, “I never knew you played cards Shining, why didn’t you tell me?”

“This was the only one I ever played. We never had enough ponies to play with when it was just you, Twilight and I.”

“Oh I’m sure we could have foun-”

Skylight coughed noisily, silencing Cadence’s babbling and drawing the others attention to her. “Tell us the rules for four ponies Shining, we can have this talk during the game.”

Straightening his neck, Shining nodded. “Just give me a moment to remember them, it’s been a few months since I played.” Rolling his eyes into his head, he moved his lips wordlessly as he mentally worked through the details of the game. “I think I’ve got it, pass me the cards Cloud.”

Taking the box from Cloud’s outstretched wing, Shining pulled a pack out for himself, surprised by the intricate art on the card backs. It detailed a pegasus coated in glowing gold plate, a lengthy wooden spear held between his wings. Tipping the weapon was a shard of some blue crystal, the whole scene set before a charging emerald dragon.

“Okay, everyone take a pack of cards and shuffle it,” Shining passed the box round as he spoke both mares taking a pack each before he lowered it the dirt.

“Wait.” Lighting her horn, Cadence snuffed the fire out, weaving a similarly colored magical construct in its place. “There, a table for us to put the cards on. It’s amazing what spells you can find in that itinerary.”

“Thanks.” Shining placed the wooden container on the table edge before continuing. “Now everyone look through their packs for the basic castle card and put it on the table before you.”

Skylight spilled her pack onto the dirt multiple times, her wings having difficulty gripping the cards individually. Eventually she sighed, “Can someone just look through it for me?”

“Oh, sure,” Cloud stretched out his wing underneath Skylight’s. “Just pass it here.”

The cards froze in midair as Skylight tipped them out, a blue glow surrounding them. “She needs to get used to handling the cards,” Shining said, pushing them back into her wing. “Otherwise she’ll never be able to play properly.”

“Fine.” Skylight snatched the cards back, fumbling with them for a few more moments before she found the card. “There,” She said, placing it on the ethereal table beside Cloud’s. “What now?”

“Now that everyone’s looked through their pack we need to shuffle them.” Setting an example, Shining parted and slid his cards back together with practiced accuracy, Cadence and Cloud almost on par in skill.

Skylight watched the other three before attempting the act herself, grunting as her pack spilled onto the dirt. “This game better be good,” She muttered as she swept them back up, blowing the dust off them before trying again.

“It’s some of the most fun I ever had as a foal.” Placing his pack on the table, Cloud draped a wing over Skylight’s withers, squeezing her tightly. “I know it might be frustrating trying to handle the cards with your wings, but when you learn how it opens up a whole new world of things to do.”

Slowly but surely Skylight shuffled her cards, the time between her drops growing longer and longer.

“I think that’s enough,” Shining said, ceasing her movements with the touch of his magic and lowering her pack to the table. “Now we’re ready to start. Everyone draw seven cards, and don’t show them to anyone Skylight.”

Pulling her cards close to her face, Skylight stared at them as if they were some ancient writings. “What now?”

“Now the game begins. The aim is to destroy the other team’s castle with your evil creatures, and to stop them from destroying your by building up its defences. Teams usually sit opposite to each other so the turns are spread out, but since both you and Cadence are learning it’ll help we stay sitting how we are.”

“Don’t you think it’d be a good idea if we showed our teammates our cards for the first few games?” Cloud suggested, meeting eyes with Shining. “It would really help in teaching them what does what.”

Shining stared at his cards for a moment, a pained look on his face. Eventually he nodded “I guess we can, but just for one game. Not knowing what your partner has adds a whole level of fun to the game.”

Shifting closer to Cadence, he analyzed her hand. “Let’s just start with you for now Cadence. At the start of every turn you can partake in a quest that will provide you with certain elements, and with these elements you can either build your castle or summon creatures to fight with.”

“Is this card a quest?” Cadence held it before Shining. Written across the top were the words Playing the Princess, an open book occupied the top right corner. An oil painting of Celestia sitting atop her throne took up most of the card’s front. Her face shimmered with a pink haze, a wicked grin twisting her lips.

“Yes, you can tell by the little book in the corner.” After studying the card for a moment, Shining shook his head. “But you wouldn’t want to play that one this turn,” He gestured with his hoof to the lower half of the card. “You need changeling help to successfully obtain any elements from this quest. I’d pick A Simple Truth. It gives you one honesty without any investment.”

“So I’ve got enough to play this changeling now right?” The card Cadence held up depicted a changeling in flight over the backdrop of the night sky.

Shining shook his head, “No, A Simple Truth gives honesty, one of the elements of harmony. Elements of harmony can only be used to build up your castle, not summon evil creatures. The elements of chaos are needed for that.” Examining her hand for a few more moments, he pulled a card out with his magic. “You can add this Wooden Wall to your castle though, it helps to defend against small, flightless creatures.”

The turns passed slowly, Cloud and Shining explaining every move to their partners and allowing them to make some on their own. Eventually the game shifted toward Cadence and Shining’s favour, their changeling and griffon army growing every turn, outsmarting Cloud and Skylight’s dragons and minotaurs with mind control and illusions.

“Their cards are unfair,” Skylight complained as Cadence stole away yet another one of her dragons with The Changeling Queen. “Everything we put down is taken by that thing.”

Placing his wing over her, Cloud kissed her on the cheek, “I know it might seem a little unfair when you’re in the losing position, but that’s just the luck of the draw with cards. Sometimes nothing seems to be in your favour and others everything does. Trust me, if you play it a little longer you’ll start to enjoy it even when you lose.”

Turning back to Shining and Cadence, he pulled a card from his card from his hand and placed it on the table. A smile spread across his face as he read its details. “Mindless Charger, this card ignores any creatures with a toughness of three or less when attacking, energetic. I’ll attack your castle with him.” Pushing the card forward, Cloud waited for his opponents’ response.

Shining stared at both his and Cadence’s hands for a briefly, looking each card twice before meeting Cloud’s eyes. “That thing gets past all of our defenses, and we have nothing in our hands to stop it. Looks like you’ve won.”

Question lined Skylight’s face as she shook her head, staring at the mass of minions placed before Cadence and Shining’s castle. “How did we win? They have a bunch of changelings and dragons on their side.”

“It’s because our castle was so weak from your repeated fire attacks,” Shining explained as he swept up the cards before him. “All you needed was one hit to destroy it. That was the perfect card, it can run through all of our frail changelings and the dragons weakened by brainwashing, and get the last hit you needed to win.”

Silence fell over the four for a moment before Skylight shook her head once again, “I’d need to play more games to understand what you’re saying.”

“Same,” Cadence chuckled as she spoke, reflecting back over the game. “We should play it again another night.”

Cloud looked up from gathering both his and Skylight’s decks back together. “Why don’t we have another game right now,” He lifted his eyes to the sky, a soft orange sunset filling his vision. “It’s not even dark yet.”

“I know, but-”Cadence faked a yawn, nuzzling close to Shining as she did so. “Shining and I are very tired, I think we’ll both be needing an early night to catch up on all the sleep we’ve been missing.”

“What do you mean?” Shining looked to Cadence, confusion creasing his brow. “We can play another game, I’m not tired at all.”

Giggling, Cadence pressed her lips into his ear, one of her hooves sneaking between his legs to brush against the tip of his member. “Well then, I’ll just go sleep by myself,” She whispered before standing and turning toward the cave.

Shining glanced backward, catching Cadence’s swinging rump before it disappeared into the twisting turns of the cave. Looking back to Cloud and Skylight, words spilled from his mouth and cards from his magical grasp as he stood. “I’ll see you two tomorrow.”

The pair of pegasi laughed as he scampered away, the noise fading as Shining rushed into the cave. What met his eyes as he stepped round the corner knocked the breath from his chest, all the blood in his body instantly changing its path and heading for the groin.

Atop the glowing blue mattress Cadence lay, her pink and yellow fringe hanging over one eye, the other half-open, beckoning him close. As he stepped forward, Shining noticed what she held in her magic, a vial filled with white hovering before her snout.

“Is that?”

She grinned, nodding, “I thought I should take a few spares, just incase we need it for a long night.” Tossing it toward him, Cadence shifted, turning her rump to face Shining. “Now give me what we’ve both been wanting this whole week.”

Without even thinking of the taste Shining uncorked the potion and poured it down his throat, the burning hardness filling his shaft instantly. He dove forward, both ponies gasping as hot muscle met wet flesh. Cadence instantly pushed her rump backward, impaling herself his length.

“Oh, Shining,” she cried before stuffing a hoof into her mouth, the pair outside coming to mind. Cadence groaned as he slammed into her again and again, splashing her overflowing juices all over his legs.

The moment Shining fell into his usual rhythm he felt the familiar sensation at the base of his length, his balls feeling so tight he thought they were about to burst. “I’m nearly finished.”

Cadence giggled, a wide grin spreading across her muzzle as she tightened her inner walls, locking Shining inside her. “You’ve barely even started.” All thought escaped her as Shining pumped his seed into the depths of her body, Cadence relishing in the sensation of his warmth filling her completely, the excess leaking down her thighs.

Leaning over Cadence, Shining caught his breath for a moment, relieved by the empty feeling in his sack. “I’ve been needing to do that all week,” He breathed before returning to his thrusting, building back up to the ball swinging, rump slapping speed he had previously.

Allowing herself to relax, Cadence groaned and moaned softly as Shining drove himself into her over and over again, concentrating on every spark of pleasure that blossomed in her groin. It’s coming, She thought, long before her body had any knowledge of its inevitable climax.

The hot shaft constantly rubbing against her bud of pleasure drove Cadence’s body toward its end. Building the tension between her legs until she could no longer contain it. She allowed her body to relax and inhale deeply before she gave herself to the orgasm.

Shining continued to empty and fill her as her insides relaxed and contracted. Cadence’s mind blurring as bliss overwhelmed any thought that had resided there previously.

Some time later she came to, Shining still pumping her with his member, hooves on her hips, holding her upright. “Shining,” Cadence panted, twisting her head round to meet his eyes. “Why don’t we change position?”

It took him a few moments to break out of his trance-like state, pounding her without thought, body running solely on pleasure. Shaking his head, Shining blinked at Cadence briefly before his eyes focused, “What did you say?”

Twisting her whole body, she spun round on his shaft to face him, wrapping her hind legs around his hips to keep herself upright. “Well, I was thinking we should change positions, maybe give me the lead for a while.”

“Gladly.” Shining fell backward onto the mattress, allowing Cadence to sit atop him, his member still tight inside her. Breathing deeply, she lit her horn.

“I’ve been practicing a spell on myself recently,” She said breathily. “And can’t wait to try it on you.” Shining felt a tingling near his groin as Cadence magic encased it, focusing on the area underneath his sack.

“What’s happening?” Shining lifted his head upward, the feeling of the stretching around between his legs sobering him up. “You’re not transforming me into a mare are you?”

Cadence leant down toward him, brushing her lips against his ear as she spoke, “Quite the opposite actually.” Shining’s eyes widened as she felt her hoof massaging his shaft, directing it toward her rump. “How does it feel?”

“Did you just give me two-” The tightness around the tip of his second shaft silenced Shining, the feeling of Cadence squeezing around him while penetrating herself with his member sending shivers throughout his body.

Leaning backward, she took his full length in her rear, gasping as her ring tightened around the base. Riding Shining like a rocking horse, Cadence leant back and forth, barely able to concentrate on keeping herself stable as both of her holes were filled and emptied simultaneously.

“Shining,” She gasped, collapsing forward, burying her muzzle into his neck. “I need you to fill me with everything you’ve got.” After panting for a moment, Cadence pushed herself back upright and returned to pleasuring both of Shining’s shafts.

Unable to speak, he simply nodded, rapidly thrusting his hips upwards in time with each of her movements, pushing himself deeper inside, squishing her soft rump against his hips.

Eventually Shining felt the tightness growing in his groin once again, an even greater weight than previous building in his balls, begging to be released. Working his muscles, he drove his hips even faster, each high pitched moan from Cadence’s lips bringing him closer to release.

“It’s-” Was all he managed before his whole body was overcome with orgasm. Pain filling his sack as it pumped burst after burst of hot seed along both of his lengths, filling both of Cadence’s openings to the brim, the overflow splattering over his hips.

Her movements slowed as Shining’s essence was pumped into her belly, her whole body tensing up as it prepared for release. “Shining!” She screamed, her groin twitching and spasming, milking every last drop from him.

Silencing her horn, Cadence felt her rear relax as one of Shining’s shaft vanished. She fell forward and wrapped her forelegs around him, inhaling his musk deeply.

Pressing his lips gently into her ear, Shining whispered four final words before his eyelids drooped closed, limbs slackening as he fell asleep. “I love you, Cadence.”

Her own eyelids closing, Cadence felt her legs growing heavy, sleep dragging her deep into its dark pit. “I love you too Shining.”

A Warm Welcome

Everywhere Cadence looked soft white clouds filled her vision, the bright blue sky a constant backdrop. Zooming between the fluffy obstacles, her wings feeling stronger than ever, body almost weightless.

She dove through one of the clouds, bursting out the other side shaking with laughter. The sky seemed infinite, no matter how far down she flew the ground never came within sight, just a never ending sea of blue and white.

“Get up you two.”

The voice came from nowhere, shocking Cadence to a stop as she glanced around her. Darkness occupied the edges of her vision, slowly closing in as the sky before her faded.

“And wash yourselves before we leave, you smell like the tavern.”

Hoofsteps echoed around Cadence as her eyes fluttered open, an expanse of white fur shifting up and down before her snout. Her groin was throbbing as she lifted her head upward to find Shining still asleep underneath her.

“Wake up Shining,” She whispered, pressing her lips into his. “I think Cloud and Skylight want to leave.”

He groaned as she pulled herself off of his shaft and stepped over him, eyes searching the cave for their belongings. “Just a little longer,” He murmured, rolling onto his belly.

Rubbing sleep from the corners of her eyes, Cadence chuckled. “I’m as tired as you are, but we need to get up, Cloud and Skylight are waiting for us.” She magically gathered their things as Shining slowly climbed to his hooves, groaning with each movement.

The sunlight washed over their bodies as Shining and Cadence stepped outside, the pegasi pair waiting for them, packed and ready. “You two really went at it last night,” Skylight said with a smile. “Cloud and I could barely get to sleep.”

Red blossomed on both perpetrators’ cheeks, their eyes sharing an uneasy look. Shining broke the stare first, stepping forward and looking up the mountain trail. “We’ve got a lot of ground to cover today, so we shouldn’t just be standing around here talking.”

The stench the cloaked both Shining and Cadence grew throughout the day until both ponies were choking on the thick air that surrounded them. “When are we going to find another river?” Cadence questioned as they stopped for an afternoon break, the sun’s heat too much for all for to continue traveling.

They had found the shade of a monstrous boulder atop an incline to rest under, the landscape of light-brown rock stretching out till the horizon before them. Skylight pushed her sweat soaked mane back with a hoof, trying to ignore the offensive smell of sex that emanated from the other pair of ponies. “You found a spell for water last night, now we need it.”

“Of course,” Cadence nodded. “I completely forgot about that. Just give me a moment to find it again.”

Both pegasi fanned themselves with their wings as Cadence flipped through page after page, murmuring to herself. Shining was left panting like a dog, lying as still as he could as not to produce any extra heat.

“Found it!”

Stashing the remainder of the pile away, Cadence held the piece of paper before her eyes, muttering the ancient incantation. “Ahh!” She yelped as cool water splashed onto her head before giggling. “I guess I need to point this at something, does anyone have a container I can fill?”

“Why don’t we just make a small pool here?” Cloud gestured downward, drawing their eyes to the stone bowl they sat inside. “Then we can all wash this smell away.”

Cadence shook her head, “As good as that sounds, I still have no idea how much water I can produce with this spell, and how much of my energy it drains. We wouldn’t want to have me falling unconscious. Can you just pass me one of the bottles Skylight?”

Taking the wooden container from Skylight’s wing, Cadence lit her horn once again, this time focusing the spell inside the bottle. She squealed as water hit her face once more, the excess from her spell shooting out of the bottle’s opening.

“Well, it doesn’t feel too draining,” Cadence noted as she handed the container back to Skylight. “But just to be safe I’ll save making a pool for when we stop tonight, I’ve underestimated the side effects of spells before. For now filling everyones bottles should be enough.”

All four of them drunk at least two casts of the spell each, Skylight and Cloud from their standard issue bottles, Shining and Cadence borrowing a bowl from Cloud to hold their water. By the time they stood to leave all thoughts of thirst had left their minds, replaced instead by a mix of joy and dread for the journey ahead.

The landscape slowly flattened out as the day wore on. Underneath their hooves cracks snaked through the brown stone, loose stones causing Shining to trip more than once.

Their pace slowed as the blue sky darkened, the ground underneath growing more treacherous with each step.

“Ouch,” Shining winced as he tripped again, Cadence’s magic catching him just in time.

She shook her head, a small smile on her lips. “You need to watch where you’re going, otherwise you’ll end up smashing your snout on the ground.” Helping him up, she glanced out at the cracked plains before them, the sinking sun above. “I think it’s about time we stopped for the day.”

Thump! The ground shook behind them. Thump!

Turning, Shining and Cadence found the pegasi pair, the neutral expressions on their faces out of place from their usual post-flight joy. “We should stop here,” Cloud announced without meeting Cadence’s eyes, instead looking out onto the plains behind her.

“Well we were just about to do that.” Following Cloud’s line of sight, Cadence found nothing but rock and sky in the distance. “But why are you two calling for a stop? Usually you want to stay up there long into the evening.”

Cloud and Skylight shared a look, bright blue hair bouncing as Cloud nodded slowly. His shoulders lifted with a deep breath before he spoke. “All four of us are going to have to rest well for tomorrow, we’ve got a tough flight ahead of us.”

“Flight?” Shining looked up from searching through his saddlebags, a cloth parcel suspended in magic above his head. “You don’t mean I have to fly, I told myself I’d never have to fly again.”

“We don’t have a choice.” Skylight drew the attention of all with her hard words. Eyes downcast, she shook her head as she spoke again. “There’s a sea of lava a short flight from here, we flew as far across it as we could but didn’t see the other side.”

“Can’t we just walk around it?” Silencing his horn, Shining allowed the bundle of food to fall to the ground, his hooves holding his head as he stared downward. “What if there is no end? What if we fly to our death?”

Cloud spoke up, “There isn’t a way round it.”

A shiver ran through Shining’s body, “How do you know?”

“I studied dragons a lot as a foal,” Cloud explained, eyes unfocusing, staring straight through Shining. “I read every book I could get my hooves on, learnt everything. This sea of lava is the border of The Dragon Lands, we have to cross it at some point.”

“We’ve got until tomorrow to prepare.” Shrugging her backpack off, Skylight forced a smile to her lips. “But don’t think about it tonight, you’ll tire yourself out. Just relax.”

Their camp rose slowly that evening, Cadence constantly interrupting Cloud and Skylight with questions as they set up their tents. Shining sat by the fire, mind filled with images of bubbling hot orange rising up to meet him.

Don’t think of it, just relax, He thought, pushing pictures of his favourite food into his head. Within moments he was up and all smiles, muzzle hopping from Cadence’s saddlebags to his and back again as his snout searched for food. Eventually he settled on a mix of sweet lemon tarts and caramel chocolate slice.

“Do you think Shining and I even have a chance of making it across?” Cadence questioned Cloud and Skylight as the three joined Shining by the fire, taking their share of food. “Flying down the side of that mountain was probably the longest flight of my life, and Shining’s even weaker than me.”

“Think about it tomorrow,” Skylight said through a mouthful of lemon curd. “Working yourself up won’t help. Just relax.”

“Why don’t we play a game then?” Digging into the bag beside him, Cloud pulled out the wooden box. Taking a moment to stare at the monsters intricately carved in the side before opening it. “Cards always helps me relax.”

The activity distracted them from the pressure of the day to come, but the effect it had on the four was quite the opposite of relaxing. They chose different decks this time, Skylight eagerly snatching the changeling deck Cadence used previously for herself. It took only a few turns before Shining and Cadence found themselves experiencing the same frustration Skylight had the night before.

“Is there no way to get rid of that card?” Shining groaned as Skylight’s Changeling Queen stole another one of his minotaurs.

“It’s something you have to defeat early on.” Cloud held his hand before his snout, eyes flicking between it and the table constantly. “The Changeling Queen only grows stronger as more creatures fall under her spell.” Turning back to Cadence, he raised his brow. “Have you decided what to play this turn Cadence?”

She shook her head before laying her cards out on the table. “Well there’s nothing I can do. You two have won again.”

Sighing, Shining laid his hand out as well. “I don’t get it, how do you always manage to make it work Cloud?”

A small smile touched against Cloud’s lips, his eyes glazing over briefly. “I told you, this was the only game I played as a foal.”

Two more games followed that night, Cloud and Skylight managing to come out on top no matter what decks they were playing. Shining sat slack jawed after the final game, eyes moving back and forth over the table, mentally tallying up the effect of each card.

“I didn’t even know you could do that, beat someone in one turn,” He breathed as he shook his head. “And I still don’t think I understand how you did it.”

“I just managed to channel enough greed into my Dormant Dragon through high level quests that one fireball of his instantly destroyed your castle. It’s a tactic my father always used against me.” A yawn punctuated Cloud’s explanation, his eyes closing and tongue extending from his mouth as he allowed the breath to escape. “And that means it’s time to get some sleep.”

“Yes.” Skylight stood as she spoke. “We all need as much sleep as we can to cross the sea of lava.” Her muzzle touched against Cloud’s softly, whispering, “Good night,” Before the pair split up and crawled into their own tents.

Alone, Cadence and Shining’s eyes met, smiles forming on their lips as they silently shared each others desires. Unable to resist any further, he leant into her, tasting her tongue with his as the pair shared a soft moan.

“You know we can’t Shining,” Cadence whispered, glancing at the nearby tents. “It’ll be impossible to not wake them when we’re sleeping so close.”

“Why don’t we,” Shining stole another kiss, eyelids falling shut as he inhaled her overpowering scent. “Why don’t we go for a little walk? I’m sure we can find somewhere silent, far away enough that we won’t disturb them.”

The suggestion lit a soft fire in Cadence’s loins, her lips spreading wide as she looked one last time as the cramped army tents. “Lead the way.”

The cracked and loose stone proved more difficult than the pair could dream in the dark. Their hooves constantly losing their way, slipping to the side and throwing the ponies they carried to the ground.

After falling enough times to leave his rump sore, Shining decided against standing and simply sat on the stone, chuckling. “I think this is far enough Cadence. Any further and I’ll break a leg.”

Sinking to the ground beside him, Cadence pressed her lips into his while her horn lit with blue. “Just let me set something up first,” She said as their muzzles broke apart.

Shining felt the rocks beneath him soften, the cracks filling with a silky material. Looking down he found a blue ethereal mattress lifting Cadence and him from the ground. He wrapped his foreleg around her neck, pulling her close as her horn fell silent. “Why haven’t we been doing this every night Cadence?”

Her mouth opened to answer, but another voice spoke for her. “Because you’ve been too tired.”

Turning, Cadence and Shining found Skylight standing some distance behind them, the expression on her features disapproving. “Get back to your tent, you need to sleep.”

Shining’s head fell as he made to stand, Cadence’s hoof holding him back. “Please Skylight, can we just have this one night together?” She said, fidgeting as the want between her legs pulsed throughout her body.

“You had last night, and if how tired you were today tells anything I can’t let you spend yourselves tonight. Now up.” Without waiting for another word, Skylight turned and headed back to camp, leaving the unsatisfied pair to follow sullenly.

Morning came suddenly for Cadence, the sun’s light seeming to wake her the moment she fell asleep. Stretching and yawning, she glanced around the camp while rubbing sleep from her eyes.

Skylight sat by the fire, her back to Cadence as she nibbled on a slice of pie.

Lifting Shining’s foreleg off of her, Cadence’s jaw stretched with another yawn before she rose and stepped out from their tent. “Good morning Skylight,” She said as she sat beside the pegasus.

Blue eyelids opened slowly, Skylight eyeing Cadence for a moment, snout wrinkled. “Morning, are you ready?”

“Ready?” Question lined Cadence’s face briefly before the last moments of the previous day flooded back into her mind. “Oh.” Glancing down at her wings, Cadence’s cherry smile faded. “I’m not so sure, and if I’m uneasy Shining must be scared for his life.”

“We’ll make it over, even if I have to carry both of you.” A small smile tugged at the corner of Skylight’s muzzle, her eyes comforting as they held Cadence’s.

The pair sat in silence for a few moments, Skylight finishing the last morsels of her pie, Cadence mulling over the trial to come. “Should we wake the other two?” She questioned, eager to clear the sickly nervousness from her stomach.

Skylight shook her head, staring back at Cloud’s tent. “Give them a while longer, they need all the sleep they can get.”

Cadence had eaten once, then twice, by the time Skylight decided they should wake the stallions. Cloud’s eyes snapped open in an instant, kissing Skylight lightly on the cheek as he sprung from his mattress.

“Come on Shining.” Standing over him, Cadence prodded the slumbering unicorn with her snout, receiving less of a response from him than she would from a rock. Eventually she resorted to holding him in the air by his hind leg and soaking his white coat with multiple bursts of water.

Dripping and dizzy, Shining finally woke, the world upsidedown as looked around. “Let me down Cadence,” He grumbled, eyelids falling closed once more, threatening to send him back to sleep.

A few morsels of chocolate mixed with a blueberry pie cleared any grudges Shining held, a smile spread wide across his brown and blue stained lips as he chased the food with a long swig of water. “Where are we walking to today?”

Shining’s good mood faded as Cadence reminded him of the nightmare that was waiting for him.

“Are you sure there isn’t another way?” He pleaded, pushing his bottom lip out and widening his eyes. “I’ll never make it across if the lake of lava is as large as you say.”

Pulling him close with her foreleg, Cadence brushed her cheek against his. “Don’t worry, Skylight said Cloud and her can carry us if we can’t make it ourselves.” Her words were for both of them, trying to convince the butterflies in her belly to leave.

The tents were taken down and packed away faster than Shining would have liked, still wishing he could settle down on the ground and hide away in the dark depths of sleep.

His jittery unease couldn’t have been further from the moods of the two pegasi. Cloud and Skylight waited with bags strapped to their backs, flexing their wings and jumping from hoof to hoof, eager to leave.

Cadence methodically slotted everything back into her saddlebags, checking and double checking, any excuse to delay the flight. We’ve got to face this some time, She thought eventually, lifting her saddlebags over her withers, carefully fastening them in place. “Well, let’s go.”

Two blue and white bolts shot into the air the moment she spoke, corkscrewing round each other as they did every morning. A little bit below the clouds they slowed their pace and flattened out, dancing lazily through the air toward the sun, Cadence and Shining left to follow.

Cadence squinted through the bright sunlight to watch Cloud and Skylight, the pegasi pair stopping before too long and spiralling toward the ground. “I guess that’s where the lava starts,” She noted.

They felt the molten sea before they saw it. The air around Shining and Cadence slowly growing hotter than the morning sun until it they were wrapped in its burning embrace, their eyes meeting the bubbling mix of orange and red and black.

The pair of pegasi stood far from the edge, waiting for Cadence and Shining. “Are you up to flying?” Skylight asked as they neared. “If you’re not we can carry both of you.”

Meeting Shining’s eyes, Cadence found the same uncertainty in them that she felt. She shook her head, “I think it will be safest for all of us if you carry us from the beginning.”

Without word, Skylight shrugged off her pack and bent down before Cadence, Cloud doing the same for Shining. Cadence mounted the pegasus awkwardly, unsure of where exactly to put her legs. Looking across to Shining, she found him with his forelegs wrapped round Cloud’s neck, rear legs hanging round his belly.

She mirrored the position after taking the pack Skylight handed her and strapping it to her own back. “Hold on tight.” Cadence heard the pegasus beneath her say before lowering her body close to the ground.

The speed they took off at was unlike any Cadence had experienced before. Her stomach slammed hard against her ribcage, the pie she had eaten earlier threatening to escape. Slowly, the feeling eased. Once her stomach almost settled, Cadence opened the eyelids she didn’t recall closing.

At first all she could see was blue. The sky? Cadence thought before realizing it was missing one important object, the sun. Blinking, she studied the surface before her, feeling her eyelashes brushing against something.

“Nuzzling my neck like that won’t help you hold on any tighter.” Skylight’s words swept past Cadence’s ears, taking a moment to sink in.

Oh. Cadence lifted her head, the vast sea of molten rock and bright blue sky above filling her vision. Looking back, she found they were already a great distance above and away from the shore, Skylight’s ever beating wings carrying them higher.

The clinging heat faded as they climbed above the clouds that surrounded them on all sides, Cadence feeling almost cold as the wind whipped past her limbs, sending her mane into a crazed dance.

The booming beats of Cloud’s wings were all Cadence could hear through one ear, the sound reaching both as she turned her head. Shining clung to the white pegasi much like she had, snout buried in his side, eyes clamped shut.

So this is what flying is really like, Cadence thought, facing forward once more, eyes squinted against the wind. The thick white smog below them hid any signs of their progress, Cadence forced to wait patiently as they soared through the air.

She chose to lower her neck back against Skylight’s and shut her eyes, allowing her mind to drift. Celestia’s plan for the months to come floated into her thoughts.

After The Dragon Lands they were supposed to travel even further into Equestria’s depths and find the minotaur cities, high in the mountains.

After that venture came the griffons, who resided in an yellow expanse marked on the map as The Raging Desert. Of course Celestia had planned for them to visit the countless towns and villages along the way, A princess must know ponies from all walks of life, she had written.

The heat broke Cadence from her thoughts. Opening her eyes, she found herself blinded by white, the clouds only allowing her to see the length of her muzzle in any direction. “Why are we going down?” She whispered into Skylight’s ear.

“To see if we’ve reached the other side,” The pegasus shouted back.

When they were beneath the smog, Cadence glanced around, nothing but bubbling orange meeting her eyes. “How can you even tell where we are going?”

“Cloud and I follow the sun.” Skylight ascended once she had confirmed they were above nothing but molten rock, shaking her head at Cloud as they rose above the clouds.

The day continued in the same way, Cloud and Skylight taking turns to dip below the clouds, every time coming back up with the shake of a head.

After some time, the monotonous cycle rocked Cadence into a half-sleep, only opening her eyes when Skylight dove below the clouds to check for land.

Feeling the body beneath her veering sideways, Cadence lifted her head, hoping for sight of land to relieve them.

To her surprise the thick white blanket was still below them, Skylight’s movement had closed the gap between her and Cloud. The two pegasi shouted over the wind that rushed by, their words twisted and torn by the time they reached Cadence’s ears.

“What were you talking about?” Cadence said, lips pressed into Skylight’s ear, as she pulled away.

“Cloud’s getting tired,” Skylight grunted back. “Didn’t know how hard it would be to carry a pony. Can only last till mid-afternoon at best.”

Cadence squinted up at sun, It’s only mid-morning, She judged. That gives us plently of time to reach the other side.

Unstimulated, Cadence’s body drifted back to the realm of sleep, her mind with one hoof in the door and one out.

As they continued she could’ve sworn the time between each of Skylight’s dips was shortening, Maybe I’m just falling asleep?

A lurch in her stomach shocked Cadence back awake, her legs instinctively wrapping tight around Skylight.

“Not so tight.” The pegasus pulled at Cadence’s hooves with her own until the panicked princess loosened her grip.

“What’s happening?”

“Don’t know, but Cloud stopped. He’s hovering a little way back.” Skylight twisted her body round, wings propelling them forward once more.

Leaning sideways, Cadence spied the white pegasus straight ahead of them, his monstrous wings beating slowly, just enough to keep the two stallions airborne. As they grew close she noticed his tongue was hanging from the side of his mouth, cheeks red and chest heaving as he panted.

“What’s wrong Cloud?” Skylight called as she pulled up next to him, words holding the barest hint of concern.

“I’m getting, quite tired. If we could, go a little, slower, that would help.”

“I,” Skylight gazed up at the high noon sun before looking back to Cloud, a hopeful smile on her lips. “Okay, I’m sure it’s not much further.” The two pegasi returned to their flying, this time slowing the pace of their wingbeats, taking more time to glide on the wind.

Cadence grew sleepy atop Skylight’s back once again, her limbs numbing from hanging so long, eyes drooping as the rhythm of Skylight’s wings slowly lulled her to sleep.

“Finally!” The cry woke Cadence from her slumber, the wings on either side of her head beating as quick as a dragonfly’s as they shot back up through the clouds, Cadence barely having time to tighten her grip.

“Land!” Skylight shouted at Cloud as she drew alongside him, smile wide on her muzzle. He looked at her with question for a moment, almost as if the word was foreign to him.

Realisation sparking in Cloud’s eyes, he shared Skylight’s joy, the corners of his mouth spreading. The pair of pegasi dove back into the clouds, circling as they descended, searching for a safe spot to land.

Shining’s eyes shot open the moment he felt Cloud land, leaping off of the pegasus once he confirmed they were no longer above the molten sea. “We made it! I can’t believe we made it.”

Cadence and Skylight landed shortly afterward. Giggles bubbled from Cadence mouth as she watched Shining press his lips into the stone they stood upon, hugging against the ground as if it were a long lost friend.

“I don’t know if our flight is over,” Skylight said, taking note of their surroundings. The shore they had landed upon curved away sharply, giving the appearance they were situated on a peninsula. “I’m going to have a look round.” Cloud followed as she leapt into the air, zooming up to meet the roof of white above them.

Standing still for a moment, Cadence watched Shining happily throw the packs off of his body and roll across the warm, brown-orange stone. She stood nearby, smiling at his antics briefly before pulling him upward with her magic. “While they’re finding out where we are, we should get walking. There’s still a long way to go still we reach Rockholm.”

Sighing, Shining piled his and Cloud’s bags onto his back. “Where to now?”

The sound of wings interrupted Cadence’s reply, both ponies glancing toward the sky. Cloud dropped softly to the ground, panic written across his face. “Skylight was right, we’ve still got more of the sea of lava to cross.”

“What do you mean?” Cadence questioned, Shining’s face fading whiter than white, his legs shaking with unease.

“We just flew along the shore, and it seems like we’re on an island of some kind. There’s molten rock surrounding us on all sides.” Cloud’s shoulders slumped, muzzle tilting toward the ground. “I do hope that we’re close to the other side now, I don’t know how much more flying my wings can take today.”

“Don’t worry,” Cadence reassured, shifting beside Cloud, lifting his chin with a hoof. “We can stay here the night if you’re not feeling up to it. Better to lose half a day than two ponies.”

Skylight landed some moments later, confirming what Cloud had told them. “I think this is a resting spot for travellers crossing the lava. There’s a building in the centre of the island.”

“Was there anyone inside?” Shining questioned as he handed Cloud his pack. “Maybe they’ll be able to take us in for the night.”

“I didn’t look, but we should stay here for the night, out of sight of anything inside.”

All three ponies looked at Skylight with confusion, wondering if they had heard her correctly. “Why?” Cadence said, speaking for them all. “There’s nothing dangerous about a building is there?”

“It’s not the building, it’s the dragons that’ll be inside it. We’ll be safer if they don’t see us.”

Cadence chuckled, a wide grin pushing her eyes closed. “I’ve told you Skylight, we’re at peace with the dragons.” A pink hoof silenced Skylight’s retort. “No buts, now lets go have a look at where we’ll be staying tonight.”

The island was smaller than Cadence had thought, her eyes able to spot the distant shore as they climbed the nearby hill. That was not what her eyes were drawn to however, the single structure that squatted in the centre of the island captured her attention.

Red and black, yellow and orange, the colors patterned the walls of the single storey building. Its walls and pointed roof were rimmed with black, the tall double doors embedded into the side black as well.

As they neared Cadence noticed the ripples in the walls and roof, like waves rolling across the colored surfaces. Stepping up to the door first, she knocked against the solid stone with a hoof. “Is anyone there?”

When no answer came, Cadence knocked again.

“Just open the door,” Skylight said as Cadence raised her hoof to knock as third time. “No one’s home.”

Nodding, Cadence pushed her hoof against the door with no success. The smooth stone surface resisting her touch. Again she pushed against it, this time with both hooves, and then a third time with her shoulder, leaning her whole body into the door. “It won’t budge.”

“Let me try.” Skylight stepped forward as Cadence backed away, the pegasus bracing her shoulder against the stone. She grunted and snorted, but pushed the door just as far as Cadence had. “It must be locked from the other side.”

A chuckle sounded from behind the four, all of them turning to find its source a lizard that towered over them, his head shaking with glee. He spoke nasally, accentuating each each letter. “Silly ponies, that’s not how you open a door. Let me display the proper way.” Three of them stood wordless, shocked at the sight of another creature that could communicate with them.

Skylight’s instincts reacted for her as she stepped forward, wings flaring. “Don’t you take another step dragon, what are you doing here?”

Another chuckled bubbled from the dragon’s lips, a small puff of smoke leaking from his nostrils as he held his belly. “Do not fear pegasus, I am not here to hurt you. I am just spending the night at the Travellers Hovel, same as you.”

A pink hoof touched against Skylight’s shoulder, Cadence stepping up next to her. “He’s right Skylight, he’s given us no reason to be scared, just let him open the door for us.”

“Thank you princess.” He bowed his head slightly before stepping forward. On two legs he stood, the black scales that covered most of his body glowing dully. A heavy tails hanging from his rear kept his body in balance. Small grey spikes lined the top of it, their tips deliberately smoothed into a curve. At the end of his tail was a barbed spike, its points also ground flat.

At the end of his thin forelegs were five claws with which he gripped a knob on the edge of one of the door and twisted. “See,” He said, pushing the door open with ease. “Just twist the handle and the doors open easily.”

Cloud stepped up beside him, staring at the circle of black stone he cupped his claw around. “That’s a handle? I thought it was just some decoration.”

The dragon’s face twisted in a smirk for a moment before a chuckle burst forth. “Don’t tell me you ponies have never seen a doorknob before.”

“Well, I have,” Cloud admitted, squinting his eyes at the handle. “But in in all the places I’ve lived all the doorknobs are long and thin, so they’re easy to push on with your hoof. Not a ball like that thing.” He pressed his hoof to the other door’s handle to prove his point, attempting to turn it but failing.

The dragon nodded slowly, “I can see your problem, but that does not matter now. Let us gather within the building. I do wish to know what four ponies are doing crossing the molten border.”

They followed as he strode inside, Cadence a few steps behind, the breath taken out of her throat. How did he know I’m a princess? She closed the door behind her before turning to trail the others, her jaw dropping at what she saw.

Inside the building was much larger than it had looked from the outside, the flickering flames that dotted the walls leaving the soaring roof above in shadow. As she followed the clopping of hooves against the pitch black marble floor, Cadence marvelled at the orange and red carvings that fringed the identically black walls.

Pulling her eyes away from the hallway’s beauty, Cadence dashed after the her friends as they rounded the corner at the end of the hall. She blundered into Shining’s chest as she skidded round the corner, knocking both of them into a heap on the cool stone.

“Sorry,” He said with a laugh, untangling himself from her. “I was just waiting round the corner to scare you.”

Cadence giggled herself, a smile spreading her lips. “Well it looks like I was the one doing the scaring.” Behind Shining, her eyes caught sight of Cloud and Skylight looking back, waiting for them at the next corner. “We should hurry and catch up.”

They scampered ahead, sliding to a halt before the others.

“You ponies are lively aren’t you,” The dragon commented, his eyes lit with laughter. “It’s a shame I’ve never been able to meet one of your kind before.”

“So you’ve never met a pony before?” Cadence questioned as they returned to their slow stroll through the halls, as a full party this time.

“No princess. There is still much bad blood between ponies and dragons, even if our war was settled decades ago.” The dragon clasped his claws together, sighing deeply. “But it would be a shame to ruin our meeting with such dreadful talk. Please, enlighten me on why four ponies are flying into dragon territory.”

“Well-” Cadence stopped herself, He did it again, called me princess. “Before that, how do you know I’m a princess?”

He chuckled, shaking his head as if the question were absurd. “Why you have wings and a horn, perhaps I’m not completely up to date on pony anatomy, but I believe that makes you a princess.”

Cadence nodded slowly, “That’s right, I just surprised a dragon would know that.”

“Most dragons would not, their knowledge spans little more than physical activity and fighting skill.”

Skylight’s lips upturned at the dragon’s words. “They don’t sound bad after all.”

He smiled, chuckling softly once again. “Yes, even if you are wary of our kind, you will fit in well with our culture where physical strength is highly prized. However, not all dragons are the same, I prefer to spend my time pursuing knowledge. That is why I have the pleasure of meeting you here, I have just returned from a great journey to the minotaur mazes.”

An impact with a door ceased the dragon’s speech. His eyes blinking with shock for a few moments before he recovered, smiling and rubbing his snout. “It seems my weak grasp on the world has led to another blunder. It would be best if we continue this conversation when we have stopped, to prevent any further bruises.” He chuckled at his own joke, only Cadence and Shining joining him.

The charcoal black door led into a vast room, stylized in the same way as the halls before it.

Cloud’s eyes popped wide open as he stepped into the airy space, “This place must be big enough to hold even the largest dragons.”

“Why of course,” The dragon responded. “It is built specifically for our kind after all.”

Looking at the two legged reptile with unfocused eyes, Cloud compared him with the mental images he had. “Oh yeah, I, I.” He paused for a moment, gathering his words. “I always imagined dragons as massive creatures, that walked on all four legs. Large enough to destroy villages as if they were playthings, but you seem, uh, smaller than that.”

He chuckled, the soft noise echoing round the room, amplified by it. “As I said before, I am not as physically focused as other dragons are, so I am considered small in comparison to my kind. You will meet the dragons of you dreams however, there are many behemoths that ponies once feared still living today.”

Clapping his claws together, the dragon cut off Cloud’s coming words. “That is enough talk for now however. I am famished from my long flight, and I am sure you are two. Please wait at the table there, I will prepare the meal.” His outstretched foreleg gestured toward the centre of the room, where a dull orange and red table sat, long enough to seat their group a dozen times over.

Three of the ponies sunk into the plush pillows that surrounded the table, content to wait until food arrived. Cadence trailed the dragon into the kitchen, like a duckling behind its mother. The room was no less spectacular than the others. Walls of red and orange and yellow crystal surrounded one expansive polished cream marble island in the centre, its surface scarred with black scorches.

“Do you wish to help prepare the meal princess?” The dragon questioned once he noticed Cadence in the kitchen with him. “Wouldn’t you prefer to relax after such a long journey?”

“Well, I didn’t actually fly over the lava,” Cadence admitted, her eyes lowered slightly. “I’m not exactly confident in my flying, so I rode on Skylight’s back.”

“She is the one with the white coat, correct?”

Cadence nodded. “Yes. So I’d really like to help with the cooking, it’s something I love to do, and I’d also love to see how dragons cook.”

The dragon chuckled slightly, stepping across the room as he spoke. “I do apologize, but I don’t believe you will be able to help with the food preparation.” A door popped out of the wall at the touch of his claw, its surface blending so seamlessly with the crystal around it Cadence had failed to notice it sooner. He stepped half inside, forelegs moving beyond Cadence’s vision.

“Why not?”

“Because princess,” He grunted, backing out of the storage space with a white sack between claws and chest.. “We dragons cook all of our meals with fire.” The sack dropped from his grip and fell to the marble benchtop with a meaty slap.

Cadence’s eyes widened as she took an instinctive step backward, heat beating so heavily she could feel it in her throat. Surely he knows we can’t eat meat. This can’t be happening.

A grey claw sliced through the white cloth, revealing the bloody red surface underneath. “I know it is barbaric, but this kitchen lack any oven, and any wood to feed the oven as well.”

Opening her mouth to speak, Cadence felt and heard herself choke instead. The back of her throat boiling with bile as she turned away. Yet the sight stuck to her mind, crimson and wet. She felt her neck clench, stomach stirring and forelegs shaking as she tried to block the horror from her thoughts.

The dragon abandoned his meat and stepped beside her, bending over to look at Cadence’s face. “I know it isn’t the most high quality meat, salted and old, but isn’t this an overreaction princess?”

Cadence choked audibly again as the stale stench of blood on the dragon’s claws met her nostrils, her whole body shivering as she squirmed away from him. “You don’t, understand,” She breathed, gritting her teeth as she drew another breath. “Ponies, don’t, eat meat, this is the, first time I’ve ever, seen so much, blood and flesh.”

Gasping, the dragon’s claws slapped against his cheeks, “Oh, oh, oh no. You must forgive me princess. It completely slipped my mind that ponies don’t consume the flesh of other animals.” He rushed back to the bench and scooped the lump of meat back into his forelegs, making for the still open cupboard as quickly as he legs would carry him, the whole time repeating the same phrase, “Please do forgive me, please do forgive me.”

With the sickening scent gone, Cadence found strength back in her legs to stand straight and open her eyes. “I don’t want this difference to come between us,” She said, her voice still weak. “And I’d like you to not tell the others about this, especially Skylight. Ponies are quite ignorant to the, brutalities that other races in Equestria perform.”

“That I can see quite well.” The dragon stood well back from Cadence, his claws resting on the marble island, clicking as they nervously tapped against its surface. “What do you wish for me to prepare for you, we have some food stores besides the salted meat.”

No,” Cadence shook her head, voice stronger than before. “I would like to make my friends their meal myself. If you could show me to these other foods that will be enough.”

Across the room from the meat cupboards was another hidden door, its position revealed easily with a touch of the dragon’s claw. “The freezers wait down those stairs,” He gestured into the darkness with a foreleg, an uneasy frown still on his muzzle. “They are filled with few fruits and berries, for the dragons who find distaste in eating the flesh of other creatures.”

As Cadence made to step into the wall of shadow, he called after her, “Are you sure you wish to go alone, it is treacherously dim down there. A touch of fire will help light the way.”

“Yes,” Cadence breathed deeply, lighting her horn with a blaze of blue, the dragon shying away from the display. “I’ve got something far more useful than fire.”

She dulled her light as she stepped further into the depths of darkness, the magical roar from her horn proving too bright for her eyes. I shouldn’t have tried to scare him like that, Cadence thought, the dragon’s frightened eyes still fresh in her mind. Even if he did sicken me, it was an accident.

The stairs continued downward at an easy slope, Cadence too distracted with the recent occurrences to count the number. How long have I been walking? She wondered after some time, the light of her horn finding no end within sight.

Eventually she felt the air around her cool, a shiver that shook her body making her aware of the fact. Feeding more energy into the spell once again, Cadence noticed the black walls further ahead were tinted with white, Ice?

The chilling touch against her outstretched hoof confirmed her suspicions. Soon she could hear it crunching underneath her hooves as well, the expansive hallway opening up into a cavern of blue-white not long after.

Her breath was white and misty before her as she slowly walked between the towers of cubed ice. The contents of each cube were easy to see through their sides, berries of black and blue and red, oranges and bananas as well. Further down she caught glimpses of red flesh hanging from stone hooks and turned back immediately, her stomach squirming.

Cadence decided on a slab of raspberries, a smile on her lips pushing the images of meat aside as she planned her meal.

“Do you have any chocolate, and maybe some pastry?” She called up the stairs as she neared the top. Hearing no response, she called again as her eyeline rose above the top step, “Do you have any choco-”

The face that met her eyes caused Cadence to choke on her words, “Skylight? I thought you were just going to wait out at the dining table.”

“You took too long, so I came in here to make sure Ignius hadn’t eaten you.” Skylight’s eyes flicked sideways to the black dragon who sat a few steps away, his tail curled round his legs and head in his claws.

“Ignius?” Cadence questioned, her brow creased for a moment before realization struck her. “Oh, is that you name, dragon?”

He nodded slowly, tight cheeks showing the gritted teeth underneath. “My manners have abandoned me princess, I should have told you earlier. I apologize dearly. In my excitement to see ponies I made myself a fool.”

Stepping across the room, Cadence dumped the slab of frozen raspberries on the marble bench before moving to stand beside Ignius. “Don’t worry about it, not knowing you name has been the least of my troubles. Now if you could tell me where you keep your pastry and chocolate I’d be thankful.”

“Chocolate? We do not keep this, chocolate, but pastry... You do not wish to hear the answer to that.”

Cadence smirked, shaking her head, “It’s down in the freezer isn’t it?”

The second journey back down seemed to pass by quicker than the first, the icy air feeling warmer for Cadence with Skylight beside her. She was careful to avoid the meat, taking the lead and backtracking whenever she sighted swinging chunks of red ahead.

“Why did I have to come with you?” The pegasus grumbled as Cadence plucked a few solid sheets of pastry from a stack.

“Well, I did want some company, but mainly I wanted to keep you from harassing that poor dragon. I hope you didn’t interrogate him too harshly.”

Skylight chuckled as she followed Cadence back up the stairs. “All I did was ask questions. He was already a shaking mess when I found him.”

“How did you find out his name then? Is that part of your questioning as well?”

Skylight nodded slightly, “Yes, standard procedure. If you know the subject’s name they feel vulnerable.”

“Did he tell you about the-” Cadence stopped herself before flesh could pass between her lips. If I ask her that there’ll be no way to hide it. best just to forget about it.

“About the what?”

“Uh, I forgot what I was going to say.”

Back up in the kitchen Ignius seemed in much better shape. He had gathered the other things Cadence had asked for, a plate for each of them and a bowl for the cooking, and arranged them on the marble island. The frozen slab of raspberries was also defrosted and piled into its own bowl.

“Did you find what you were searching for princess?” He said when he noticed them at the top of the stairs. Cadence’s head bobbed, “Good, I can't wait to try this chocolate you speak of, and mixed with these berries,” His eyes twinkled with delight as he popped one of the dripping red fruits into his mouth. “My mind can’t even begin to comprehend the flavour.”

Cadence took the smooth obsidian bowl in her magic and recited Celestia’s spell for fire, forming ghostly blue flames before her. “Skylight, can you go grab my bag?” She said without looking up, taking the bowl of berries that was nestled in Ignius’s forelegs and levitating it over the fire.

The pegasus shot Ignius a glare before stalking toward the door, reappearing a few moments later with Cadence’s bags between her teeth.

Taking the bag from Skylight, Cadence fished out a half-eaten bar of chocolate, unwrapping it before she broke it into the other bowl, both now held over the fire.

As she worked Ignius slowly crept along the edge of the bench until he was crouched beside Cadence, his eyes flickering with blue as he watched her magic swim through the air. “I have seen the great scorchers of Ember prepare meats with their hundred color flames, but I have never seen someone cook so beautifully.”

Cadence felt her cheeks warm with a soft blush as she grasped the solid sheet of pastry and held them over the fire to defrost. “Well, this is how I always cook. Though usually the bowls look different, and I don’t usually use a magical fire but-”

No,” Ignius cut her off. “It is not the tools your are using that captures my attention, it is the way you handle them with such grace.” He inhaled deeply, eyelids sinking closed. “And the aroma that wafts off it, so sweet to my snout. That smell must be the chocolate.”

“Uh, yes,” Cadence responded absentmindedly as she worked the now softened pastry into pie shells. She gently browned them over the flames, filling them with molten chocolate as she did so. The hot berries came next as she topped each pie off with a dollop of red before setting one on each plate.

“Are they complete?” Ignius’s jaw hung slack as he eyed the steaming pastries. “I can not resist their aroma any longer.”

Nudging the dragon’s looming snout away with her hoof, Cadence grasped the five plates in her magic before snuffing out the fire. “They are, but you have to wait. They’ll be too hot to eat for a while.”

She dumped the dirty bowls on the marble bench as she stepped past it, Ignius and Skylight trailing behind, the pegasus watching the dragon’s slack, drooling mouth suspiciously.

Shining’s head was slumped on the table as she stepped from the kitchen. Placing on of the steaming treats in front of his snout, Cadence watched with a smile as the scent roused him. “Is that chocolate?” He breathed in deep, muzzle splitting wide with a grin.

“Mmmhmm,” Cadence nodded, spreading the remaining plated along the table. “I made everyone a fresh raspberry pie with a chocolate base.” She seated herself opposite Shining, Skylight beside her.

Ignius floated around behind them, following his snout to the remaining pie that rested beside Cloud. “May we indulge in these fine flavours finally?”

“Yes.” Cadence left her own pastry before her to cool, and watched as the three opposite her sunk their teeth into their own.

The reaction was instant, Shining and Cloud’s eyes widening and cheeks burning red as they dropped their pies, fanning their tongue with hooves and wings. Ignius devoured the treat with one bite, eyes closed as if he were dreaming for more.

“Don’t you find it hot Ignius?” Cadence questioned, waking the dragon from his pie-induced sleep.

Lifting his eyelids, Ignius stared at Cadence with a smile on his lips. “Hot? Princess, that scrumptious morsel felt as cool as ice on my tongue compared to dragon fire.”

It was some time before the ponies braved the piping hot temperatures of their own sweets.

Ignius chuckled as he watched their faces squirm with a mix of pain and delight. “You ponies are such funny creatures, but I cannot help but appreciate your food.” He commented as they were finishing. “You must cook me something else tomorrow princess, I so dearly wish to taste more of that chocolate.”

Shining looked to the dragon with question lining his brow. “You’ve never had chocolate before?”

“No. Throughout my travels of Equestria I have never encountered the substance. Not with the griffons, nor with the minotaurs and we dragons lack it as well. It must be a unique pony food.”

“Not, even, a, little,” Shining said, slowly, his face frozen with shock as the words dripped from his lips.

“None at all. I can see you will miss the taste, but do not worry, we have many other fine foods. The best meats-”

Cadence magically snapped his jaws shut, locking her eyes with the dragon’s golden pair and shaking her head. “The best meals, right Ignius.”

“Yes,” He murmured through closed lips eventually. “Many stupendous meals.” Silence fell over the table for a few moments after that, Ignius nervously tapping his claws against marble. “Ah,” He announced, breaking the silence. “Why don’t you ponies show me what you have in the way of after dinner games.”

Eyes lighting up at the words, Cloud quickly turned and dug into his saddlebags, producing a wooden box. “We usually play cards.”

The four ponies played as Ignius watched carefully, his grin growing wider and wider as he watched Cloud’s dragons triumph in battle over both Shining’s changelings and Cadence’s Everfree monsters.

“This brings back memories of when I was a young dragon,” Ignius said after Cloud finished of the remains of Cadence and Shining’s castle with a meteor. “The games my brothers and I used to play always fueled my mind with adventure. It is what first ignited my passion for travelling and discovering Equestria. I would love to watch another game.”

Shining met Cadence’s sensual stare and faked a yawn. “I’m actually getting quite tired, I think I’ll head to bed.”

Stretching her jaw sleepily also, Cadence rubbed the corner of her eye with a hoof. “I think I need to as well. Are there any rooms for sleeping Ignius?”

“Yes, I will show you to them myself. Best you don’t get lost in these halls, there are some things you would not like to see.” He rose and strode down the dining hall, Cadence and Shining gathered their bags from the floor and trailed behind, the pegasus pair taking some time to pack Cloud’s cards away before following themselves.

The ceiling crept in closer as they entered a dim hallway, lit only by the light leaking through the doorway behind them. Ignius breathed a slow stream of fire along one wall and a dozen bright torches sprung to life, revealing door after coal-black stone door along the other wall. “These are rooms for the smaller dragons,” He explained. “I believe you will find them more than large enough.”

A wall of darkness met Cadence as she pushed open the door.

“Forgive me,” Ignius called over her shoulder. “The rooms themselves still need to be lit.”

Cadence stepped before him, blocking the dragon’s path into the room as she lit her horn. “We’ll be fine thank you.” She dumped her saddlebags beside the wall before stepping back out into the hall. “Good night Cloud, Skylight. I hope you’ll be ready to fly again tomorrow.”

“It’s Cloud we’re resting for,” Skylight replied, chuckling. “I could fly all night.” She shepherded Cloud into their room before he could speak.

“A good rest I wish you as well.” Ignius bowed his head at the disappearing pegasi before turning back to Cadence and Shining. “I will see you tomorrow, princess, Shining.” He dipped his head before swinging his body around and strolling back toward the dining doorway.

“Aren’t you going to sleep in one of the rooms as well?” Cadence called after him.

“No. I will sleep in the dining hall. It would be a sorry tale if another dragon stumbled into your room as you were sleeping, one that is not as accepting as I. I shall rest outside your door to make sure that will not occur.”

Cadence watched him disappear around the corner before turning and joining Shining in their now lit room. He lay stretched out atop their ethereal blue mattress, eyelids lowered slightly, bottom lip between his teeth.

After looking at him for a few moments Cadence couldn’t help but smirk. “Is that supposed to be seductive?”

A frown overcame Shining’s features as he shifted back into a sitting position. “Yes, what about it was so funny?”

Noticing the wounded look, Cadence replaced her smirk with a small smile, “It wasn’t the position that was funny, something was missing from you.” She stalked across the room, circling him like a lion does its prey before stepping onto the mattress and pressing her lips into his ear. “You weren’t a cute little mare.”

She felt his body shiver underneath her touch, shaking the soft expanse below. “Don’t you find stallions attractive anymore?” Shining replied sullenly.

“Of course I still do,” Lifting his chin with her hoof, Cadence met Shining’s blue eyes with her pink pair. “When I talk about you being my little mare I’m just joking, most of the time.” She muttered the last few words.

Pink lips cut off Shining’s retort, his wide eyes relaxing as he pushed back against Cadence, his foreleg curving around her neck to pull her closer. “I’ve got something no mare can offer,” He breathed as they broke apart.

Cadence smiled with her eyes and lips, stealing a glance between Shining’s legs. “I could always find a spell, I’m sure a magical cock will satisfy my little mare just as well as the real thing.” Sinking backward onto her haunches, she allowed her hooves to dance down his body, from neck to hips, until they found their way to his hardening member.

Shivers ran through Shining’s body as Cadence’s hooves brushed along his sensitive length. “How about tonight I play Celestia,” She whispered as her horn lit with blue, the aura soon enveloping her whole head.

“No,” Shining put one of his hooves against the now white cheek of the mare before him, brushing the illusion away. “Can’t we just have one night where we lay together for hours like we did during our first time together? Just holding and kissing each other, whispering words of love into the others ear.”

A wounded look overcame Cadence’s features, “I thought you liked the crazy things I think up.”

“I do, but they’re with you, and that’s what I enjoy about them. I’d hate for you to pretend to be another pony when we make love, it would feel like betrayal.”

“Well, if you don’t like that, why don’t-”

Shining’s hoof cut off Cadence, his eyes pleading as they stared into hers. “Tonight, can we just be together, plain and simple?” Falling gently onto his side, he gestured with a hoof for her to do the same.

They lay muzzle to muzzle, eyes locked as they inhaled each others breath. Shining’s foreleg crept over Cadence’s back, pulling her body closer to his. “I don’t know what I’d do without you Cadence,” He said after some time.

Cadence, still in a playful state of mind, froze for a moment, unsure of what to say. Just like he said, She reminded herself. Holding and kissing, whispering words of love. “I, um, I, I. I love falling asleep with you beside me, it makes me feel safe.” The words came to Cadence without thought, her brow creasing as they left her lips. Did I just say that?

Slowly stroking her mane, Shining continued to stare into her eyes without responding. Cadence stared back, her body itching with discomfort, Should I say something else? I never remember these times being so uncomfortable. Parting her lips, she felt Shining’s muzzle press into hers, the kiss cutting Cadence off before she could breath a word.

The contact was soft and gentle, unlike the greedy and lustful kisses she was so accustomed to, simply a connection between their bodies. Unsure of what to do, Cadence found herself kissing back, grasping Shining’s bottom lip with her pair and tugging tenderly, like a foal suckling sleepily on its mother’s teat.

As Shining ran his hoof down her neck and along her spine, Cadence felt memories of their times together flowing through her mind, a slowly river of faded images.

The uneasy look on Shining’s face when they finally gotten Twilight into bed after an exhausting night of babysitting. The guiltiness in his eyes whenever she caught him glancing at her. The laughter and joy his features held as they entertained Twilight before bed.

Up and down Shining’s hoof ran from the base of her tail to the top of her head, his gentle touch and soft kisses relaxing her body. Cadence felt her eyelids drooping closed, Shining’s face slowly fading into black.

And appearing once again, this time many years younger, his eyes a mix of excitement and nerves. He sat a few steps from her, hooves tucked into his body as if they were fearful of coming closer. Breathing in deep, Cadence’s nostrils tasted the overwhelming scent of perfume that Shining had drowned himself in, his mother’s she knew. Lavender.

Staring over his shoulder, the skyline of Canterlot met her eyes. Windows lit with yellow light formed a trail of fireflies all the way to the palace. Shining averted his eyes as she tried to meet them with her own pair.

Shuffling closer Cadence lifted his chin with her hoof and smiled, “What are you afraid of?” She realised her own stomach was swimming as well. I don’t remember being this nervous.

“You’re just, just so beautiful, and, princess, I-”

Pushing her muzzle forward, Cadence felt the warmth of his lips against hers and a blossom of joy that quelled her slickly stomach. She saw his wide eyes briefly before she closed her own, enjoying the unexplored wonders of such a simple contact.

Reopening her eyes, she found Shining lying before her once more, once side of his face lit up bright blue by the ethereal mattress it rested upon. “Oh Shining,” Cadence felt herself choke back a sob, the edges of her vision blurring, cheeks growing wet as she smiled. “I’m so glad you finally took that chance and asked me up to your parent’s balcony that night. I don’t know where I’d be without-”

His lips pressed into hers, cutting Cadence off as she had done to him years ago.

Wrapping a foreleg over Shining’s back, she locked their bodies tight together as their lips twisted against each other. Cadence gasped softly when they broke apart, “I want to stay like this forever.”

“We’ve got all of tonight.” Smiling, Shining nuzzled his snout against hers, his heavy eyelids falling closed.

Stealing one final kiss, Cadence allowed her eyes to shut as well. Shining’s embrace as comfortable and familiar as her bed in the palace as the dull weight of sleep overcame her body, a blanket of shadow over her mind.

The blanket was only down for what seemed like an instant before it dissipated, Cadence’s eyes snapping open and ears standing on end as she searched for the reason for her awakening.

Rustling.

Pulling out of Shining’s grasp she swung her head toward the sound, a large, winged shadow hunched over in the corner filling her vision. Cadence lit her horn, revealing the pitch-black scaled back of a dragon. “Ignius?”

The dragon sucked in a breath as he swung round, the usual look of courteous composure on his features replaced with a crazed terror. “Princess, things are not as they seem. I was simply searching for that divine food you call chocolate.”

“Chocolate?” Cadence felt a chuckle burst between her lips. “You were looking through my bag for chocolate? That’s the worst story I’ve heard, and trust me, fillies make up some wild tales.” Her features hardened. “What were you actually doing?”

“You must believe me, I am telling the truth.” Allowing his head to fall into his claws, Ignius shook it gently, soft sobs echoing off the stone wall. “Oh what a fool I have become, to allow myself to be enslaved to a flavour.” Looking back up at Cadence, he clutched his claws together. “Please you must have some more, even just a crumb of that sweet taste. I do not know if I can live without it a moment longer.”

Cadence felt a touch on her shoulder, Shining’s sleepy voice in her ear. “Don’t worry Ignius, it gets easier to resist after a day or two,” He reassured.

“Does that mean I will be free of this terrible want some day? How long will it take to purge my body, a week? A month?”

Laughing softly, Shining shook his head. “If my experience with chocolate is anything to tell, you’ll never forget the taste. Even a few years without it and I was always wanting more.”

Ignius sighed as he stood, shoulders slumped. “I do hope I am not cursed with the same affliction as you have been. I am sorry for interrupting your sleep princess, I have truly made myself the fool tonight.” He dipped his head deeply before stepping toward the door.

“What just happened?” Cadence asked once the door clicked shut, her face creased with question.

“Don’t worry about it Cadence.” Shining yawned as he fell back onto the mattress, eye closing. “It’s just chocolate.” His breathing slowed as Cadence curled up beside him, a small smile on his lips.

“I love you Shining,” She whispered into his ear, the dark heaviness of sleep overcoming her body and mind once more.

Facing Fears

“Land!” Skylight’s cry woke Cadence from her suspended nap.

Eyelids fluttering open, she could see nothing but a blanket of white fog below and blue sky above. The white cloud came up to meet Cadence as Skylight dove downward, an expanse of brown-red land appearing beneath.

A boom sounded behind the pair and Cloud shot past them, Shining atop his back, forelegs wrapped tight around his neck. They raced toward the ground, Shining leaping from Cloud’s back the instant he judged it safe.

Cadence shivered as she felt a shadow pass overhead. Looking upward, she spied the ash grey underbelly of Ignius as he soared some way past the stallions before spiralling downward.

“It looks like everyone’s faster than you,” Cadence teased as Skylight slowed her pace to a standstill above Cloud and Shining. She felt the pegasus chuckle underneath her.

“It’s unfair if I carry the heaviest load.” The ground came up to meet them slowly as Skylight fluttered downward, Cadence face still twisted in a frown as she dismounted the pegasus.

Shining stepped toward Cadence as she was passing Skylight’s pack back to her, his hooves closing round her in a hug. “I’m so glad we finally made it, no more flying.”

Meeting his hug with a kiss, Cadence giggled. “We still have to fly back across it when we leave.”

“Can’t you let me have just one moment of relief?”

Another giggle passed through Cadence’s lips as she stared up at the sky, hoof shading her eyes. “Well it looks like we’ve still got some time before sunset. We should get as far away from this lava as we can before then.”

Shining took one look back as the bubbling and churning lake of molten rock and grimaced. “I think that’s the best idea. I wouldn’t want to be near this thing if it gets higher.”

Stepping toward Cloud and Skylight, Cadence studied the pair for a few moments, her lips turning upward as she watched the couple press their lips together tentatively. “Are you two ready to keep going?” She called at the pegasi, sending a jolt through both of them.

Blue cheeks glowing bright pink, Skylight pulled away from Cloud and stared at Cadence, her face stern. “Yes, we just needed a moment to rest.” She spread her wings and leapt into the air, only to drop back down and retrieve her pack moments later.

Cloud followed Skylight as she took off again, the pair looping and spinning into the sky.

“We should talk to Ignius before we go, see what his plans are,” Cadence said once the pegasi were dancing far above.

The dragon had offered to carry both Shining and Cadence across the river, but Skylight instantly refused, claiming she still didn’t trust him with the lives of ponies. Cadence wondered what Skylight would have said if she had known about their surprise visitor the previous night.

“Princess,” Ignius bowed his head slightly as Cadence and Shining neared, the exuberance in his voice a stark contrast from the shakiness it had carried the night before. “I am pleased to see you had a safe flight, it seems the blue one, Skylight is it? She is much stronger than I would have guessed.”

“Yes.” For a moment Cadence felt as if she were back in the air, the expanse of muscles that was Skylight’s back rippling underneath her stomach. “That strength has been very helpful, but I didn’t come to talk about Skylight. I was wondering if you are going to continue to travel with us on our way to Rockholm.”

Ignius sighed, his shoulders deflating. “As much as I would delight in your continued company, our path will not let that happen. You see, Rockholm lies westward.” Gesturing with his claw, he pointed away from the lake of lava, toward the setting sun. “And I am heading north, back to my home town. There is a dragon there I have not seen in years. I hope she misses me as much as I do her.”

That’s so sweet, Cadence thought, her heart filleing with warmth. “Well, good luck with her. Maybe we’ll see you again some day.”

Spreading his wings, Ignius looked back to Cadence, a smile on his lips. “It would be my joy to visit you in Canterlot when your journey is over. Simply tell me a date now and I will make it to your great palace on that day.”

“Well,” Biting her lips, Cadence met Shining’s eyes for a moment. “We’re actually supposed to be traveling all around Equestria for five years, so it will be a while before we’re back in Canterlot.”

“I will be there on the sixth year then. I pray you have many tales to tell.” Bending his legs, Ignius nodded at Cadence one final time before leaping into the air, the great sails that were his wings carrying him higher and higher.

Cadence stood still for a moment, watching as the dragon faded into a black smudge on the horizon.

“We should probably get going,” Shining said eventually, touching her on the shoulder with his hoof.

“Yeah, Skylight will be getting impatient.”

The land before them was completely flat, as if a flood had washed away every hill and mountain, something Shining’s shaky legs were thankful for after the long flight. In the distance however, cloaked in white mist, loomed a wall of brown.

“I hope we reach Rockholm before those mountains,” Shining said as they stopped for camp, measuring the distant mountains against his hoof. “My legs have done enough mountain climbing over the last month to last me a lifetime.”

Skylight looked up from unpacking her tent, a teasing smile on her face. “Stop complaining about nothing, if you really want to know feel tired why don’t you try carrying yourself for two days?”

Looking down at his belly, Shining eyed the expanse of white with a frown, retaliation on his lips. Breathing deep, he felt the excuse fading from his thoughts. “Yeah, that would be a challenge. Thanks for going through that for me Cloud, and you too Skylight. I don’t know how we could have gotten here without you.”

The smile on Skylight face shrunk, her brow creasing with confusion. “Yes, how would you have gotten here without us?”

Turning, Shining met Cadence’s eyes, “I don’t know, did the itinerary have any details about how we were supposed to cross the lava?”

“I,” Digging into her memories, Cadence thought back through all the times she had studied Celestia’s writings over their trip, a smile spreading her lips as she did so. “I may have forgotten something.” Her lips burst with laughter, eyes lighting up as she allowed it to rock her body.

“Don’t tell me you misread something again.”

“No, I just forgot.” Breathing heavily, Cadence quelled her laughter, wiping the hint of a tear from her eye. “It was the night I was looking through the itinerary for a water spell, and I recall reading that if we follow the shore west we’d eventually come across a great bridge. We were supposed to cross there.”

Shining fell backward, his rear thumping as he sat. “You’re saying that we risked our lives when we could have just crossed a bridge?”

“Mmhmm.”

“At least we all made it in one peice,” Cloud said softly, hoping to add some cheer to the conversation.

Cadence smiled, “Yes, and if we hadn’t have flown across we never would have met Ignius. Now why don’t we have something to eat, I’m sure everyone is starving after that flight.”

Shining straightened up as if he had been struck by lightning, his eyes lighting up and jaw opening. “That sounds like a great idea.”

That night sleep came slowly to Cadence, her body seemingly unable to find a comfortable position as she squirmed next to the unconscious Shining. Eventually she settled on her stomach, eyes closed tight and legs curled underneath her as she willed herself to sleep.

Just concentrate on your breathing. One, two, three, four. Feeling faded from Cadence’s body as she gently slipped into the pool of sleep. The slight sensation of her limbs against the magical mattress below shifted, moving up her body and toward her back, a steady rhythm of pushing and pulling making itself known at the base of her wings.

Blue, a hint of the color peeked into the corner of the black expanse before her, stretching across until it formed a sky, wisps of white scattered across it. Gazing downward, she saw a great city below her, its streets extending out past the horizon, buildings more numerous than she could count.

Gradually another feeling spread across her back, a light burden resting beneath her wings. Straining her neck sideways, Cadence first noticed her pink wings, larger than her own body. The slightest movement of them sent her rocketing high into the air.

Looking further, she spied as scaled foreleg curled tight around her belly, its claws dug deep into her fur. Instinctively her mouth opened to scream, but she heard nothing. In response to her shock, the claws dug deeper until she could not longer see them, just the end of emerald scaled limb plunged deep into her belly.

Rain? Cadence sensed a drop against her ear, followed by a sob. Who was that?

Stretching her neck even further round, she watched as a whole body grew off of the leg, coated in the same emerald armor. Great yellow-green wings curled round the scaled body, and a spiked tail extended from the end of it.

She heard another choking sob and felt another drop as she twisted her neck until it could go no further, the neck of the creature just visible out of the corner of her vision.

No matter what way she turned her head or strained her eyes, Cadence could never catch a glimpse of what lay at the end of the neck. The endless city continued to pass underneath and the tears continued to wet her head as she tried and tried again, unable to settle until she uncovered the mystery of what lay atop her.

Another gasping whimper, this time a higher pitch, and from a different place. Twisting her head again, Cadence spotted another scaled body resting on the one that clutched to her. Smaller, this one was curled tight, tail between teeth, its scales a fiery red..

As its body shook with another sob Cadence felt the tremendous weight of the dragon atop her at once, like an anchor pulling her toward the ground. Desperately she beat her wings, only to find they were no longer at her side, all she could do was fall.

Looking downward, she noticed what they were heading for, a coal black palace in the centre of the city. Its tall towers reached for the blue sky above like great claws, their rooftops soaring high above any heights the palace in Canterlot could dream of.

Passing between the towers, Cadence spied a similarly colored entrance hall. The doors that granted access formed of great grey crystal. As they neared its roof opened up like a gaping mouth, its edges rowed with dull red spikes. Teeth, She thought before the shadows swallowed her whole and her vision faded.

Opening her eyes, Cadence found she was lying face down on an obsidian floor, the weight on her back gone. A quick glance at her surroundings told her that she appeared to be in the hall they had plummeted into.

Orange and red and yellow lined the centre of the hall in the form of a carpet. Pairs of grey crystal doors waited at either end of the material, one so tall it climbed high into the shadows that cloaked the ceiling, the other no more than twice the height of Cadence.

The ground beneath her shook as the tearful mother and hatchling dropped to the floor some distance from Cadence. She watched fearfully as the emerald beast dissipated before her eyes, leaving only the mewing baby curled up on the carpet.

He looks so lonely, Cadence thought as she stepped towards him, meaning to cradle the hatchling in her arm. Each step took her further away from the dragon however, the carpet underneath her hooves seeming to extend out until the baby was but a dull red speck at the far end of the hall.

Stretching out her hoof, she felt it press against something before her. Stepped backward, Cadence realised she was trapped behind the monstrous pair of crystal doors, their surface transparent when she stood close enough.

Pressing her muzzle close against the doors, she eyed the dragon, still curled up, its body shaking every so often with sobs. If only there was something I could do for him?

Out of the corner of her eye Cadence spied a falling shadow. The end of the shadow sharpened itself into a spike as it fell, heading straight for the hatchling. Oh no.

Cadence instinctively closed her eyes as the spike neared the baby, wincing as she heard it burrow into flesh, the dragon’s yelp echoing throughout the hall.

Opening her eyes slowly, she shivered at what she saw. The hatchling was still curled up on the carpet, but its tail was pinned for the floor with a sharp shadow longer than its length from tip to snout.

In desperation Cadence pushed her body against the crystal before her, scrabbling at it with her hooves in attempt to dig through. Another shadow fell, this one piercing a dull red claw and holding it to the floor.

With one last futile push Cadence threw herself at the door, only to bounce back onto the floor. Defeated, she simply sat and stared at the dragon as a hailstorm of shadowy spearheads rained down on him until every inch of his skin was filled with a point. His coat of dark rubies now seeming to be more made of onyx.

Why? Cadence cried inside her head, choking back her tears. What did he do? As she stared at the hatchling she noticed a flutter of movement behind the limp body. Lifting her eyes, she saw there was another dragon in the same situation as she, held captive by the smaller set of doors as the end of the hall.

He was much older than the young one who lay pinned to the carpet before him. Scales of grey coated his limbs and back like a suit of armor, his belly the dull white of dirty snow. His claws were wrapped around his head as he stared at the hatchling before him, his body shaking every few moments.

He’s crying as well, Cadence knew.

Tearing her eyes away from the older dragon she returned them to the younger, surprised to find that the shards of shadow had shrunk. Or has he grown? Jaw wide open she watched as the hatchling grew and grew until she could no longer see the older dragon behind him, the scales of his coat now bright red, as if they were raging with flames.

After some time he was at a size where the spikes were but splinters to him. His red hot eyelids snapped open, revealing monstrous eyes within, as large as Cadence’s hoof and crimson with hate.

Standing, he arched his back and unleashed a vicious roar, sending the needles of black that pricked his scales shooting back up to the shadowy ceiling above. Breaths of fire spewed from his lips as he strode around the hall, burning the carpet until it was all black, indistinguishable from the obsidian floor that surrounded it.

Behind the raging beast Cadence spied the elder dragon once again, his claws pressed flat and jaw moving up and down, but no sound came out.

“Look outside.”

Cadence felt the whisper as if it had been breathed into her own ear, but when she swung her eyes round she found no one. Outside? As she thought, Cadence studied the room behind her, another pair of crystal doors waited at the end, and great glass windows sat on either side, giving her a view of what lay beyond.

A lengthy sandstone path led out to the city Cadence had seen before she crashed into the hall. Surrounding the path was a garden full of wilted flowers and strangling thorns, but still very much alive.

It was filled with hundreds of dragons. their coats seemingly made up of every rare stone imaginable. Rubies and emeralds, sapphire and topaz, there was a dragon for each one and much more.

They all wandered aimlessly as Cadence watched, passing each other but never meeting eyes or exchanging words and not one of the dragons even glanced toward the palace.

Curious, she stepped forward and waved out to them. One or two looked up, but none dared to look her way. They seem almost afraid.

“Open the door.” Another whisper, like a breath from behind her ear, the voice almost familiar.

Without hesitating Cadence obeyed the voice once more, her magic wrapping around the door handles and pulling. White flooded into her eyes, forcing Cadence to squint, blinking rapidly as she tried to stare through the light.

The blaring brightness proving too much for Cadence to overcome, she twisted her head to the side and felt her whole body roll with it as well.

Opening her eyes, Cadence found she had rolled into Shining’s side, her muzzle pressed into his neck. It was just a dream, She realised. I’m back in the tent with Shining, we’ve still got weeks to go till we reach any dragon cities.

She shifted away from Shining carefully as not to wake. As she rose Cadence heard the sound of crunching pastry filling her ears.

“Morning,” Skylight’s voice greeted her, muffled by a mouthful of food. “Did you sleep well?”

Stepping from the tent, Cadence rubbed the sleep from her eyes as she yawned. “Just the same as always, but I had the strangest dream.”

“What about?”

“Well,” Straining her mind, Cadence tried to bring back images of the room she had stood in only moments before, but only blurs of color and garbled sounds came to mind. “I actually can’t remember.”

Skylight shook her head, chuckling softly, “Then it can’t have been too strange.” She finished her pie with a final mouthful and brushed crumbs from the tips of her wings before rising. “Now that you’re up we should wake the others. We’ve got a long way to go.”

Mind still occupied with the dream that swum just out of her reach, Cadence stood as if she were a statue, eyes set straight ahead and chest barely moving until Skylight’s hoof brushed against her neck.

“Cadence? Are you still sleeping?”

“Oh, no.” Blinking rapidly, she shook the nagging thought from her head. “I’ll go wake Shining.”

The stallions were both out of bed a few moments later, albeit Cloud walked on his own hooves while Shining had to be lifted. When Cadence finally set the slumbering tangle of limbs before the fire it only took a whiff of a fruit tart before he exploded awake.

“So is it just more walking today?” Shining questioned between small mouthfuls of tart as he savoured the tiny portion Cadence allowed him.

“No, today you’re learning to fly,” Skylight teased, wings bursting from her sides. “First we’ll start with something simple, a leap into corkscrew.”

Shining’s eyes popped from their sockets as he watched her shoot into the sky like a spinning top drops to the ground, wings and legs a blur around her.

“She’s joking right?” Looking to Cadence for reassurance, Shining found a warm smile and a soft hug.

“Of course Shining,” She replied before leaning close, her muzzle pressed into his ear. “As long as you’re willing to be a obedient little mare tonight.”

Both of the mare’s giggled at Shining as his face paled beyond its natural white, the tart once held by his magic dropping to the dirt.

Eventually common sense broke through his sleepy haze of belief, the look of horror on his features fading into an irritated pout. “Let’s just get walking.”

The flat rocky landscape before them left little to the imagination, only small pockets of lava every now and then breaking the monotonous walk. By mid-morning the sun was beating down on the walking pair with its unending heat, the two pegasi faring much better with the wind rushing past their bodies for cooling.

Around noon Cadence was shocked out of her thoughts by the sound of Skylight smashing against the ground and the tremors it sent through her body. Looking to the side, she noticed warning on the pegasus’s face.

“What’s wrong?”

“Dragons,” Skylight blurted as Cloud landed much more delicately beside her. “We need to hide.”

Glancing around, Cadence’s eyes found nothing but flat land. “Where?”

“Can’t you do some kind of spell?”

Shining joined them as Cadence trawled through tomes and tomes of spells she had memorized, searching for one that would be of use. “What’s going on?” He asked.

As Skylight flicked her eyes back up at the sky, Cloud answered. “Skylight spotted some dragons in the distance, so we’re looking for a place to hide.”

“Why?”

The single word broke each pony out of their instinctual panic. All of their eyes fell upon Shining. “Why are we hiding from the dragons? Ignius was kind enough to us, what makes you think these ones will be any different.”

Stopping her mental search, Cadence nodded. “That’s true, why are we trying to hide? Ponies and dragons are at peace, there’s no reason for us to fear them.”

A whisper of wings drew the group’s attention to the sky. Green and grey, a pair of dragons shadowed all four of them as they flew overhead without even a glance downward. Wings many times larger than Cloud’s blew up a dust storm around the ponies, forcing their eyes closed.

By the time Cadence could no longer feel specks of dirt raging around her, the sound of wings was gone as well. Looking to the sky, she could barely see the dragons, merely a smudge of dull color in the distance.

“See, they didn’t even notice us,” She said as she extended her wings and shook the brown-red from her pink fur.

Brushing herself clean as well, Skylight scowled at the the sky. “We just got lucky. Next time we better be prepared or we’re free food.” Without waiting for a response she leapt into the air, blowing up another, much smaller cloud of dust.

Trailing the pegasus with her eyes, Cadence shook her head. “Why does she hate dragons so much?”

“I’ll talk to her about it,” Cloud said before spreading his wings and following.

Turning to Shining, Cadence found him tongue hanging from mouth, hoof scraping the coating of brown from it. Feeling her gaze, he looked up. “Are we going to have lunch soon, I could do with another on of those tarts.”

Cadence giggled, shaking her head. “Did you really just not hear any of that?”

“That dragons flying over? I heard that.”

Another giggle burst through Cadence’s lips. “You are oblivious sometimes Shining, let’s just keep walking.”

To Shining’s disappointment they didn’t rest until the sun was hidden below the horizon, only its golden glow peeking over the mountains ahead allowing them to see.

When they finally halted Shining had both their ethereal tent set up and fire lit before Cadence could even shrug off her saddlebags. “Please can we eat now?” He begged, eyes wide and glimmering with moisture, lips pushed out in a pout.

“Sure.” Cadence felt her own stomach growl as she searched through her saddlebags for something to silence it. Settling on a pair of chocolate and caramel slices, she passed one to Shining before relaxing beside the fire with her own.

Cloud and Skylight soon set up their tents and joined them, pies cradled in their wings.

“Well, why don’t you like dragons Skylight?” Cadence questioned, earning herself a glare from Skylight.

“They’re monsters who kill ponies,” Skylight responded with a huff. “What is there to like about them?”

“Skylight, dragons killing ponies is a thing long in the past. You met Ignius, you saw those dragons fly overhead today. Dragons and ponies are at peace now.”

“Politics doesn’t change a dragon’s instinct, they’re still killers on the inside.”

Throwing up her forelegs, Cadence sighed. “Why do you think that though? You’ve never met a dragons before a few days ago and all we’ve seen of them has been positive. Why do you hate them so much, and if you do why did you choose to come with us into the Dragon Lands?”

Skylight’s brow flared up as she took a deep breath, ready to release a torrent of words back at the alicorn. A touch of Cloud’s wing on her side drained the fight out of her features, her shoulders slumping and eyes falling to the ground. “I don’t know.”

The meek words surprised Cadence, her own eyes falling as she realised how aggressive her questioning had been by comparison. “I’m so sorry, I just got frustrated over not knowing why and I somehow thought that making you admit you were wrong would make everything better. Sorry?”

“I’d be frustrated if I had to put up with myself as well.” Breathing deeply, Skylight looked up at Cadence warmly. “I’m just confused right now. After talking with Cloud on our first date I realised how much I hated that base, and I just had to get out. You and Shining were the only excuse I could find, but now I’m imagining going into a city full of dragons and living with them. I’m scared.”

Cadence rose and stepped round the fire before lowering herself beside Skylight, a pink wing over the pegasus’s withers. “Why would you be scared though Skylight. Dragons seem to be a kind enough species to me.”

Turning her head, Skylight looked to Cloud. The pair sharing a silent conversation before Skylight turned back to Cadence. “Before I was born, before even my parents were born my grandparents lived on that mountain top. It was said to be one of the greatest pegasus settlements of its time, but the dragons changed that.”

A scream rang through the even air as if to emphasize her story, catching the group’s attention. Glancing around, Cadence spotted a tube of bright orange fire in the distant sky, directed at a dim winged figure that barely dodged it.

Averting her eyes, Skylight looked back to the ethereal flames that flickered before them. “I don’t know exactly how it happened but I know that the dragons ruined that town, turned it into the pit it is today.” Another jet of flames shot back toward the origin of the first, lighting the horizon up with a sickly green.

“All of the ponies living there had to leave, my grandfather and grandmother included. They lived a normal life in Cloudsdale, where my father was born, but when he was still a foal my grandfather was called to war. They said his platoon was ambushed on the way to the mountain, first day out of training.”

Two more blasts of fire shot from the distant dragons, this time colliding, lighting the sky such a brilliant yellow it was as if the sun had risen from its slumber for a moment. Back and forth the pair shot green and orange at each other as they danced across the sky.

“My father’s tale wasn’t much different. He knew my mother from a young age, my grandmother encouraged him to spend time with my mother, said they reminded her of how she was when she was younger, their lives were too similar it seemed. Soon after my mother became pregnant with me my father was drafted into the military as well.”

“Did he die in his first battle as well?” Cadence broke in, her eyes still pinned to the fire fight that raged in the sky far away.

“No, he made it to his second before he was caught by a stray ball of fire as he helped his injured friend.” Looking back out to the distant flashes of green and orange, Skylight shook her head. “See, all dragons want is violence. That’s why I sat at that outpost for so many years, to stop them from causing any more suffering.”

“But those dragons out there aren’t fighting,” Cloud explained, drawing all eyes to him. “I remember reading about this, one of the dragon’s mating rituals. They dance with their partner through the sky, mock fighting with colorful bursts of fire. It’s supposed to be quite enjoyable.”

As he fell silent, the other three followed Cloud’s eyes as he continued to trace the path of flame and shadows through the evening sky. The pair pulled up face to face, hovering in the air for a moment before shooting straight for the moon above, corkscrewing around each other and blasting a constant stream of flames before them. A golden arrow of fire flying across the black backdrop.

“It’s just like when you and I play,” Skylight realised, her words breathy as she watched the dragons pull away from each other, quenching their flames. “They just look much scarier.”

A smile on her lips, Cadence turned back to Skylight, wrapping a foreleg tight around the pegasus. “See, dragons are just like us, they may fight, but they also love. I’m sure after spending some time among them you’ll forget all of your fears.”

“I guess.” Exhaling heavily, Skylight’s whole body deflated. “That still doesn’t change what they did to my father, or what they did to his father, or what they-”

A pink hoof silenced Skylight. “I know the dragon wars were a terrible time, and I’m sure they regret their past, but you can’t go looking for revenge for something long past.” Lifting Skylight’s chin with her hoof, Cadence smiled as their eyes met. “Just let it go, we have peace now. Instead of trying to start another war why don’t you just celebrate the lack of it?”

Pursing her lips, Skylight held Cadence’s stare, silence settling over the group for some time. Eventually she replied, “I’ll forget it for now, but I’ll still be watching every dragon we meet, and if there’s one slip up, I won’t hold back.”

Shaking her head, Cadence chuckled inwardly as her eyes somersaulted. I never can win with you can I? “That’s good enough for me. Now why don’t we have something to eat before bed?” At the mention of food, Cadence realised she was no longer holding the caramel slice in her magic. Looking across the campfire, she found Shining staring back at her guiltily. “You better not have.”

A cheeky grin sprouted across Shining’s muzzle before he produced the caramel slice, still intact, from behind his back. “I was just joking.”

The following days passed with little surprise besides the occasional dragon that crossed their path, which Skylight still panicked about. The ground beneath rose up and down at gentle, almost unnoticeable inclines.

Ahead of them the tiny streak of brown-red peaks grew with every step until they were looming overhead, an impenetrable wall of stone.

“I can’t believe I’m thinking this, but I might actually ask Cloud and Skylight if they can fly us over these mountains, they look even bigger than the last ones.” Standing beneath the slopes, Shining’s eyes traced the treacherous climb up the mountainside.

Cadence stood behind him, setting up their tent, the pegasus pair still exploring the sky above. “It does look like quite a journey,” Cadence agreed once she joined him, staring up at the monster of stone that stood before them also. “I’ll ask them when they land.”

Peeling away from Shining, Cadence sank down beside her saddlebags and rummaged through them magically. Looking back, she saw he was still standing still as a statue, neck craned upward. “Why don’t you stop looking at the mountain and come have something to eat?”

Life ran through Shining’s body at the mention of food, shoulders and ears perking up as he dashed to Cadence’s side. “What are we having tonight.”

“Just the same as always, some sugary treat,” Cadence said as she picked through the dwindling stores of food left in her bags. Strawberry tart? No, we had that last night. What about-

A thump cut off Cadence’s thoughts, her eyes lifted towards the source of the sound. Before her Cloud and Skylight stood, tucking their wings away, a small cloud of dust settling around their hooves. “Have you two tired yourselves out?”

Skylight huffed, grinning at Cadence playfully. “I’m still getting warmed up. We came down because we found some caves.”

“They’re the homes of tunneling dragons,” Cloud explained, his eyes alive with excitement. “Squat dragons that lack wings, so they live underground. I’ve always wanted to explore some of their tunnels, apparently they’re full of treasure.”

Giggling at Cloud’s foalish ambitions, Cadence looked from pegasus to pegasus, the exuberant white-coated one and the moody looking blue. “Well, an hour or two explore a cave won’t slow us down too much,” Cadence decided. “I think we can make a detour.”

The irritated expression on Skylight’s features found itself joined by a frown while Cloud’s wings flared outward slightly, his eyes glazed over with dreams of their coming adventure.

“Oh, there’s one other thing I need to ask.” Looking to the side, Cadence watched Shining’s hoof clasp firmly over her lips.

“We want to ask for your patience as we slowly climb over these mountains,” He said quickly. “Even though we know it’d be quicker to fly both Cadence and I don’t feel up to it.”

Skylight’s face lit back up with a smirk. “Really? I was really hoping to see your face after another flight.” She giggled at her own jest, Cadence pulling away from Shining's hoof and joining her a moment later.

“It’s not that I’m scared of flying, it’s just” Lost for words, Shining glanced around, hoping to find an excuse in the red-brown rock. “I know how heavy I am and I don’t want to weigh Cloud down.”

The mares’ giggles doubled in noise at Shining’s justification, Skylight sinking to the floor as the laughter overcame her body.

“No, I mean.” Sighing heavily, Shining pressed his own hoof between his lips and weathered the joyful storm.

“It’s fine Shining,” Cadence breathed once she recovered enough, her pink cheeks highlighted in red. “Everyone’s afraid of something, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. I’m afraid of getting, overweight, and Cloud was afraid of Skylight and Skylight,” Rolling her eyes into her head, Cadence thought for a moment. “Skylight is afraid of dragons.”

Skylight’s laughter ceased the instant she heard Cadence’s words. Rolling from her back onto her stomach, she straightened her neck and fluffed her wings. “I’m not scared of dragons, I want to protect Equestria from them.”

Eyeing Skylight, Cadence’s grin grew. “Then what are you afraid of then?”

“Nothing. I’m fearless.”

“Really? I’ve never met a pony who isn’t afraid of anything.”

“Now you have.” Looking past Cadence, Skylight searched for something to change the topic. “Why don’t we eat?”

Around the fire the four ponies shared slices of an apple crumble Cloud produced from his bag, before Cadence set up the ethereal table for a game of cards. Cadence’s dragons and Shining’s minotaurs faced Skylight’s changelings and Cloud’s Everfree creatures across the glowing field of battle.

The match started quickly, Cloud able to accrue enough chaos to summon and grow his Vine Creepers while Skylight toughened their defenses. Shining and Cadence on the other had little and less in their opening hands, and were forced to pass their starting turns as Cloud’s creatures assaulted their castle.

“I think you two have already won this,” Shining said after both he and Cadence passed their third turns, unable to play a single card. “We still can’t play anything.”

“Never give up in Kingdoms and Castles Shining,” Cloud responded with a smile as his chaos infused creature grew another stage. “There’s always a way to come back.” Moving the creature forward, he struck at Shining and Cadence’s castle once again, leaving it with one point of life left. “However I can’t imagine a way you’d come back in this game. Your turn Cadence.”

Drawing a card from the top of her deck, Cadence’s eyes lit up when she realised what it was. She played one quest followed by a dragon, two more quests played from her hand shortly afterward, the dragon completing them with ease.

Cloud’s brow raised once he noticed Cadence’s frantic playing of cards. “See Shining, you two might be able to come back here.”

“You’re right Cloud,” Cadence replied, a hint of laughter in her voice. “There’s always a way to win.” Two cards left in her hand, she placed one on the table and pushed it forward. “Unmatched Anger, reduce all castles in play until they are equal to the lowest.” A smile spread across her lips as she placed her final card down. “Breath of Flame, deal one damage to a creature or castle.”

Looking back and forth between Cadence’s cards and the pegasus castle, Shining blinked rapidly, his mind blank for a few moments. Eventually he spoke, “Did we just win?”

“You finally managed to get you first one.” Cloud clopped his hooves slowly. “It’s great to see how much you’ve improved Cadence, single handedly winning the game yourself.”

“I helped.”

The other three ponies laughed at Shining’s defensive comment, causing his cheeks to redden.

Standing, Cadence stepped round the fire to sit next to Shining, wrapping a wing over his withers. “Don’t worry Shining, I’m sure you’ll win some games as well.”

“I know, it’s just I was so much better when I played with my family. It feels like I’ve gotten worse.”

“I’m sure it’s because you’re not adjusted to this particular set of cards,” Cloud reassured, packing the decks back together. “You’ll get used to it in time.”

Noticing Cloud tidying the table up, Cadence raised her hoof. “Why are you packing the cards away? I thought we usually have two games.”

Cloud smiled back at her. “I know we usually do but-” A yawn ceased his speech, stretching his jaw wide. “Skylight and I are pretty tired. So we’re going to sleep now.” Behind him Skylight was already pulling a tent from her pack.

“Ah, I get it,” Cadence said, a sly smile spreading across her lips. “You’re tired. Well, have a good sleep.”

Bright red blossomed across Cloud’s face as he rapidly shook his head. “No, no it’s not like that. We’re actually tired from all the flying we did today.”

Quelling her smile, Cadence nodded. “I know, I was just joking. Good night.”

The cards packed away, Cloud stood and slotted the wooden box into a pocket of his pack before pulling the tent out and setting it up beside Skylight’s.

A yawn broke thought Shining’s muzzle once the two were alone. “I’m tired as well, do you think we should go to sleep?” A sultry smile on his lips, he leant his head forward, snout nearing Cadence’s.

Fending off the assault with a hoof, Cadence giggled. “You know we can’t do anything with those two so close,” She whispered, rising to her hooves. “Lets just get some rest, I’m actually quite tired myself.”

Cadence strolled toward their tent, Shining a few steps behind. He stopped before the entrance to stare up at the wall of shadow that loomed over them.

“We should have asked them to fly us over,” Shining said once he lay beside Cadence. “Those mountains are taller than anything I’ve ever seen, I don’t know if my legs will be able to handle it.”

Cuddling up close to him, Cadence kissed his ear. “I’m sure we’ll be fine, but if you really don’t think you can make it, ask Skylight tomorrow.” Closing her eyes, she snuggled her head into the curve of his neck.

Eyelids still wide open, Shining stared up the the dim outline of mountains above. Am I really that scared of flying that I’d waste so much of our time and put Cadence through so much pain to avoid it? Closing his eyes, he felt a smile spreading across his lips. I think I’ll ask Skylight tomorrow.

The night passed like a breath of air for Shining, the instant he fell into blackness Cadence was tugging at his leg, a hint of chocolate on her breath.

“Come on Shining, wake up. We need to leave soon if we want to get anywhere today.”

His thought process still slowed by sleep, Shining rolled away from her, hoping to steal a few more moments of the oh so satisfying darkness. Her breath smell like chocolate. The thought passed through his mind as Cadence called for him again, this time pressing her lips against his snout. Eventually realisation came, That means I get to eat chocolate for breakfast.

Springing up from the mattress, Shining shot out of the tent like a puppy chasing a ball, tongue lolling from his mouth, eyes wide with excitement. “What’s for breakfast?” He questioned once he reached the campfire, only to realise Cadence was still back in the tent.

A pair of chuckles sounded before him. “I told you chocolate would be a good way to wake him,” Cloud called past Shining.

Stepping up next to Shining, Cadence pressed her lips against his cheek. “It works well, but I think it’s a little cruel exciting him for nothing.”

Shining’s shoulders deflated at Cadence’s words. “You mean there’s no chocolate?” Donning his favourite begging face, her stared at her with pouted lips.

“Aww.” Cadence glanced down at her bags briefly before looking back up, a wide smile on her lips. “Just this once.”

Sitting at the campfire, Shining noisily nibbled at his treat, sucking thirstily at every bite, savouring the flavour. The other three watched with varying states of enjoyment, all having eaten their breakfast already.

“Eat faster Shining,” Skylight said eventually. “We won’t make it over these mountains today if you never finish eating.”

Shining downed the remainder of his chocolate at the order before his mind caught up with the rest of Skylight’s words. “Make it over the mountain? Today?” Glancing at the monster of stone that stood above them, he swallowed noisily. “We’ll never be able to walk that far in one day.”

A soft chuckle came from Skylight’s lips as she stared at the dread on Shining’s features. “That’s true, you can’t walk that far in one day.” Her wings snapped open with a crack, the sound making Shining jump, evoking another chuckle from Skylight. “That’s why we fly.”

Squirming where he sat, Shining looked to Cadence for support. “I thought we weren’t flying, we told them that yesterday right?”

Rolling her eyes into her head, Cadence pulled the previous day’s conversation back into her head. “Well we did tell them, but Skylight or Cloud never said yes. We just started talking about how you’re scared of flying.”

Shining’s body deflated as he looked once more up to the peaks of the mountains before them, barely visible in the soft cloud that cloaked them. The terrifying feeling of wind rushing past his body came back to him, along with a sickness in his stomach. “What if we run up, I’m sure we can make it in a day?”

“I know you’re scared of this Shining,” Cloud said as he stood, stretching and testing his wings. “But there’s no need to be afraid. You and Cadence helped me overcome my terrible fear of Skylight, why shouldn’t you be able to beat this fear of flying?” Tossing his pack to Shining, he bent back down again. “All you have to do is hold on, I’ll do the rest.”

With a shiver Shining rose to his hooves and looked to Cadence for comfort again, only to find her already climbing atop Skylight’s back. I guess there’s no way out of this now. Tentatively, he loaded both his and Cloud’s bag onto his back, another shiver running along his spine as the familiar feeling brought back memories of his last flight.

The white expanse of Cloud’s back in front of him, Shining lifted a hoof, meaning to climb onto the pegasus. A flash of the gut wrenching sensation that Skylight had introduced him to on his first flight stopped him.

He back away, panting and shaking his head. “No, I can’t do this again. I’ll climb the mountain instead and catch up to you three later.”

Hooves traced circles over his body and warm lips pressed into his ear as Shining stepped backward. “Don’t be afraid Shining.” Cadence’s voice, barely as whisper as she kissed at the edge of his ear. “You’ve done it before, three times. I know you can do it again.”

“But those times were different.” Shining swallowed the queasiness that was bubbling up his throat. “I didn’t know how horrible flying really was until I was in the air for almost a day.”

Burying her muzzle deeper into Shining’s ear, Cadence allowed her hooves to roam underneath his belly, brushing at the tip of his shaft. “Just close your eyes and imagine you’re riding me, it’ll get rid of all your fears.”

Shining felt the sickness in his stomach fade as he met Cadence’s warm smile. Breathing deep, he looked back over to Cloud. “I think I can do it.” Slipping from her grasp, he stepped toward the still crouched pegasus and climbed atop him, wrapping all four limbs tight.

“Finally we can leave.” He heard Skylight mutter before the sound of wings on wind filled his ears and his stomach dropped, the ground beneath falling away.

Squeezing his eyes shut, Shining pushed away the sensations of wind playing with his mane, stroking his coat, the feeling of uneasiness in his stomach. He thought of Cadence, the way she had smelt earlier that morning, Chocolate.

Slowly, the images in his mind twisted, Cadence’s pink coat replaced with one of rich brown, the magical tent around them forming itself of the same substance. Stepping toward the chocolate princess, he made to kiss her lips but bit into them instead, an explosion of the sweet flavour filling his mouth.

Grabbing greedily with his hooves, he pulled her body closed to his and found himself holding a giant slab of chocolate instead. Undeterred, he bit into it again and again as the landscape around him melted into waterfalls of chocolate.

The constant rush of liquid chocolate soon formed a hoof deep pool around Shining, unnoticed by the stallion as he devoured the seemingly endless bar of goodness. By the time he was halfway through he realized the pool was leveling with his back, soaking his coat in chocolate.

Still clutching the slab, he fell sideways, relishing in warm liquid that splashed over his face. “Shining?” A mouth appeared in the brown sky above, lips and teeth made of the same substance.

“Yes chocolate?” Shining murmured through the liquid that surrounded his whole body.

“Shining get off of Cloud, we’re here.”

A shake ran through the chocolaty world that surrounded his, its rich brown color fading to white as he felt his eyes flickering open.

“Chocolate?” He questioned before he realised where he was. Unwrapping himself from Cloud, he glanced around, the cloud that had once covered the mountains’ peaks now impairing his vision of the ground. “Is the flight over?”

“The first half.” Skylight’s voice drew Shining’s eyes toward her, and toward the expanse of black that loomed behind her. “We’re going on a caving adventure.” A grimace flashed across her face before being replaced by her usual hard look.

Beside Shining, Cloud stood filled with excitement, the pegasus barely able unable to keep his head still as he looked from the cave to Skylight and back.

“Well we should get going,” Cadence said, stepping toward the cave. “We need to be in and out of here quickly if we want to make it to the other side of the mountain by tonight.” Another step and half her body was hidden inside the shadowy mouth before her horn sparked and lit.

Cloud bounded quickly after her, leaving the antsy Skylight to follow, Shining a few steps behind her.

As he stepped into the darkness, Shining felt his chest bump against something soft before him. Lighting his horn, he found Skylight blocked his path, her body unmoving but for the slight rise and fall of her breaths. Ahead of her the light from Cadence’s horn disappeared into the darkness.

“Are you okay Skylight?” Shining asked as he moved alongside her, lighting her features with his horn. He caught a glimpse of her strained cheeks and wide eyes before a stern expression replaced them.

“I’m fine, I was just making sure you don’t get left behind.” Briskly, she strode forward, Shining trailing behind until they caught up with Cloud and Cadence.

The pair had paused at a junction, four different tunnels split off, all quickly meeting a corner that led downward. In the centre of them all strange symbols were carved into a smooth piece of the stone wall.

“It looks like there’s an arrow pointing to each tunnel,” Cadence thought aloud. “But I have no idea what the symbols next to each arrow mean.”

Stopping beside Cloud, Skylight eyed the carvings in the dim magical light. “That one looks like a sun and clouds. Why don’t we try it?” Excitement spiced her voice, as if the prospect of leaving the caves was her greatest dream.

Staring at the symbols himself, Cloud frowned. “But that looks like the sky, it most likely leads to the surface. We want to go deeper.”

Still behind the three, Shining noticed Skylight shiver at the word deeper. What is wrong with her? He thought. She’s never been this shaky before. Not wanting to make Skylight even more uncomfortable than she appeared, he kept quiet as Cloud decided on the most exciting arrangement of symbols.

“What about this one?” With the wave of a hoof, Cloud beckoned the others closer. “It’s a crown and a gem, I think that’ll be the royal chambers.” Without waiting for the others he bounded toward the specified chamber, lips full of a grin.

“Wait.” Cadence caught him with her magic, causing the pegasus to skid to a halt. “Wouldn’t it be a bit rude to just barge into the royal chambers? I know we’re at peace with the dragons, but I don’t think they’d take that too well.”

A chuckle burst from Cloud’s lips as he stared at the confused faces of the other three ponies. “Didn’t I tell you? Tunneling dragons are extinct, these tunnels have been abandoned for a long time.”

“Oh.” The corners of Cadence’s mouth lifted with a smile as she nodded. “Well why don’t we go see what they left behind?” Looking over her shoulder she beckoned Shining and Skylight with a flick of her head before dashing after Cloud, her wings shifting with eagerness.

As Shining made for the tunnel, he noticed Skylight wasn’t behind him. Looking back, he saw her disappearing through the entrance marked with sun and clouds. “Skylight?” The pegasus didn’t respond, instead she continued into the darkness of the tunnel before her, blind. “Skylight?”

Backing away from the junction Cloud and Cadence had chosen, he bounded after Skylight, stopping her with the touch of a hoof. “Skylight? Where are you going? Cloud and-” A gasp ceased the rest of his sentence when the light from his horn lit up her face.

Lip tight between her teeth and ears folded back, Skylight stared at the ground, shaky limbs barely able to hold her weight. She looks like she needs a hug, but it’s Skylight. She’d throw me to the ground if I tried to hug her. Moving away, Shining took a step back toward the junction, meaning to leave Skylight alone.

He looked back at the pegasus, almost a statue if it weren’t for the slight shaking of her legs. She’s still just a pony though, every pony has fears. Slowly, he moved alongside Skylight once more, his foreleg tentatively sliding over her withers. “Skylight, why are you scared? Cloud said there aren’t any dragons down here, you’ve got nothing to be afraid of.”

Laughter burst from Skylight’s lips, Or is she choking back tears? Shining couldn’t tell.

“I’m not scared of dragons, I heard what Cloud said.” Another choked chuckle burst from Skylight’s mouth as she lifted her head, glancing at the darkness that surrounded them. “It’s these caves, I can feel them pressing in on me, like they’re choking me.”

Looking at the cave walls as well, Shining found himself laughing. “You’re afraid of the cav-”

The impact of a hoof hard in his stomach knocked the breath out of Shining.

“I love the sky, it’s natural for me to hate being trapped inside. Somewhere I can’t fly out of.”

Rubbing the pain from his belly, Shining inhaled deeply, regaining his breath before he spoke. “I guess that makes sense.” He glanced back toward the junction. “We should probably catch up with Cloud and Cadence though, they must be wondering where we are.”

“You go, I’ll wait for you all.” Straightening herself up, Skylight took a step deeper into the cave before looking back. “Go on, catch up with them.”

Eyeing the darkness ahead, Shining shook his head. “I can’t leave you, without my magic to light the cave you’ll get lost. How do you know this leads to the surface anyway?”

A chuckle echoed through the cave as Skylight gazed up at Shining’s glowing blue horn. “I wasn’t really thinking, fear makes you do crazy things.”

“Shining!”

“Skylight!”

Two voices rang through the tunnels, meeting the ponies in question moments before their sources did.

Panting, Cloud and Cadence dove at their partners, wrapping both confused pegasus and unicorn with tight hugs.

“We need to get out of here,” Cadence breathed after squeezing the life from Shining.

“Why?” Shining felt his question slip behind him as Cadence grasped him in her magic and carried him toward the exit, the hoofsteps of Cloud and Skylight close behind.

Sunlight blinded the four momentarily as they exited the gaping black mouth.

Once Shining’s vision returned to him, he found he was standing once more, Cadence hugged tight against him, her mane and ears brushing back and forth across his neck. Thoughts rushed through his mind, What happened down there? Did they see a dragon? Where is it now?

Suppressing the urge to question, Shining instead chose to return the contact, kissing the end of Cadence’s horn, stroking the ends of her mane with his hoof. After some time he heard Skylight speak up.

“What happened?”

Shining looked up and found the pegasus pair cuddled in a similar position, wings wrapped over each others body. Bright pink lit up Skylight’s cheeks as she met Shining’s eyes.

“We, we found something, horrible.” The words dribbled from Cloud’s lips as he buried his eyes into Skylight’s coat, as if trying to rub the images away.

“It must have been a dragon,” Shining heard himself think aloud, a desire to battle the foe who had frightened his friends welling in his chest. He felt Cadence’s head shift from underneath his neck.

“It wasn’t any creature we met,” She said, ears twitching and wings shifting as she glanced back toward the cave. “It was what we found. We were walking through the cave, my magic giving us enough light to see which way the tunnel turned, but not to see what was at our hooves.” Shining felt Cadence swallow hard, her body cuddling closer into his.

“After we went down a small incline I felt something strange and sharp beneath my hooves,” Cloud continued. “Accompanied by the sound of crunching.” A shiver ran through his body, the pegasus squirming in Skylight’s embrace.

Silence fell over the four. Shining could hear each of Cadence’s breaths against his chest, deep and drawn out, as if she were trying to sooth herself. After some time she picked up where Cloud had left off. “I directed my horn downward and lit up what was below us. At first we were confused, it was a scattering of dirty white chips, some stained with brown. Then we realised what it was.”

“Bones,” Cloud choked on the word. “We were standing in a pile of bones. I looked up the tunnel, as far as Cadence’s magic lit, and all I could see were broken skulls, splintered legs and the outlines of wings. They all seemed to be from dragons.”

“That was when we turned around and realised neither of you were behind us. We tried to run back up the tunnel, but something stopped us.” A shudder ran along Cadence’s spine. “The ground beneath us was bones as well, ancient and brittle things heaped up to fill a ditch. When our hooves pushed against it, the bones gave out, dropping us into a pile of them.”

“It was horrible, being scratched by things long dead. I just had to get out.”

“So we scrambled out of the pit, bones cracking underneath our hooves, their broken ends clawing at our legs.” Shifting on the spot, Cadence brushed her forelegs together, wiping away the imaginary splinters of bone. “Eventually we made it out, and ran up the tunnel to find you and Skylight standing there.”

A stillness came over the group as the story sunk in, both Shining and Skylight’s thoughts filled with murky imaginings of the scene. Only the sound of wind rushing past the sheltered cliff, and the shifting of fur against fur filled the air.

“So that’s why the tunneling dragons are all dead,” Shining whispered eventually. “Something killed them.”

Cloud nodded. “Yes, the tunneling dragons were excellent thieves, digging into other dragon’s treasuries during the night and stealing it all. They were hated by all dragonkind because no one knew where they lived. Until someone discovered the tunnels up here in the mountains, apparently it was a slaughter.”

Pulling away from Shining’s grasp, Cadence glared at the pegasus. “You knew what was down there? Why didn’t you tell anyone?”

Curling closer to Skylight, Cloud nodded once more. “Yes, but when you read of ancient wars as a foal it’s just words on a page, and maybe an exciting picture or two. I never thought of all the dragons that died, or what would be left in the cities.”

“Dragons really are killers,” Skylight said with the shake of her head.

A warm smile spread across Cadence’s lips. “No, you’ve got it wrong. Dragons aren’t like that anymore.”

“You fell into a graveyard and you’re defending the ones who made it?”

“Well, no. The dragons who did that, thing.” Cadence shivered slightly. “They were monsters, but that happened a long time ago. I doubt any dragons we meet would have had any part in it.”

“Why don’t we just put this behind us?” Shining suggested, hoping to lighten the dark mood. “What happened was terrible, but thinking about something we can’t change will only make our day worse. Why don’t we just keep travelling?” He bit his lip the instant he spoke, realising what travel meant.

Cheekiness sprang onto Skylight’s face in the form of lowered eyelids and a grin as she rose, backing toward the cliff edge. “That’s a great idea Shining, why don’t we get back to flying?” Her wings twitched once or twice before they burst out to full spread.

Cloud stood as well, the terror on his face replaced by a small smile. A few flicks of his wings and turned to Shining. “Are you ready for the second half of the flight?”

Glancing over at Cadence as she climbed atop Skylight, Shining nodded slowly, suppressing the queasiness in his stomach. Gingerly, he climbed onto the pegasus’s back, clutching him tightly as a foal would its favourite toy.

Just think of chocolate, Shining thought as he felt Cloud leaping from the ground.

“Shining?”

The world of molten chocolate faltered before Shining as the voice broke through. The falls of the liquid temptation fading out into brown-red stone, the slab in his forelegs becoming Cloud’s body.

“Shining, the flight’s over, I think Cloud wants you to get off of him.”

Lifting his eyes, Shining found Cadence standing before him, her features lined with confusion. “What’s wrong with you Shining? You’ve been in a daze after these last two flights.”

“Oh, I’ve just been thinking about things,” Shining replied as he loosened the grip he had around Cloud, quickly climbing from the pegasus.

Cadence waited until Cloud left them before leaning into Shining, her lips gracing the edge of his ear. “Have you been thinking of me?”

“No.” Red warmed Shining’s cheeks as he thought back to the land of milky brown he had left. The glorious falls that washed over his body as he lay beside his slab of chocolate, nibbling at the corners, allowing himself an over eager bite every so often. “It’s been a mix of things, like I’m dreaming.”

Cadence raised her brow, but said nothing more on the subject. Turning away from Shining, she looked to the sky where the pegasus pair looped around each other, the sinking sun behind them. “We should look for a place to set up camp,” She said eventually. “It’s going to be a long walk to Rockholm.”

Watching Cadence as she stepped away, Shining noticed the smudge of color in the distance, barely visible through the glare of the setting sun. “Is that Rockholm?”

Stopping in her tracks, Cadence twisted her head back toward Shining. “Where?”

Once he was alongside her, Shining gestured ahead of them with his hoof, eyes squinted as he tried to make out more of the vague colors. “Straight ahead of us, I can see a line of grey and black dots.”

Following his hoof, Cadence fought against the sun to pick out any details in the distance. “Well I can’t see a thing with the sun right there, but it must be Rockholm. It’s the only thing ahead of us on the map.”

Their magical camp rose quickly, Shining’s stomach so eager for food they ate as they worked, a pair of hoof-sized apple fritters each. Cloud and Skylight danced in the sky above until the sun’s golden aura was almost gone from the horizon.

“How long till we reach the city?” Skylight questioned as she sat across the fire from them, Cloud still setting up his tent behind her.

Rolling her eyes into her head, Cadence searched through her mental copy of their itinerary. “According to Celestia’s writings it should take a month from here, but she’s given us more than enough time so far. I think it should take only a couple of weeks.” Allowing a smile to spread her lips, Cadence met the pegasus’s eyes. “Are you wondering how soon it is because you’re excited about meeting more dragons?”

Skylight shivered at the prospect. “More like how long I have left.” She chuckled at her own joke.

Chuckling herself, Cadence nodded. “I’m actually quite nervous myself,” She admitted. “I really do hope everything I say about dragons is true, that they actually are peaceful now.” Glancing at the horizon behind Skylight, her eyes found Rockholm, alive with bright orange light. “What will we do if they aren’t?”

A grimace twisted Skylight’s lips. “I’d prefer to know that before we enter the city.” Looking up, she met Cloud with a smile as he sat. “We could fly over the city a day before we arrive.”

“Why would we do that?” Cloud questioned, passing the some of the apricot pastries he had brought with him to Skylight.

Looking to Skylight for an answer, Cadence noticed her mouth was full. “To make sure the dragons are as peaceful as we thought.”

Pausing halfway through chewing, Cloud swallowed hard. “I thought you said the dragons were peaceful now? Why would we need to check?”

Cadence shrugged. “They could have started planning another war against ponies today, we don’t know, but I doubt it’s necessary. Surely Celestia would warn us if she feared anything would happen.”

Talk ceased as Cloud nodded, the air alive with a mixture of chewing and swallowing, as well as Skylight noisily stretching her wings every now and then.

“Do you two want to play some cards?” Shining asked once he had nibbled through the last of his fritter, the last to finish.

Cloud and Skylight shared a look, a tinge of pink coloring both pegasus’s cheeks. “Skylight and I are quite tired after such, such, su-” Cloud faltered, sighing deeply as he looked back to Skylight. “I can’t do it, I can’t lie-”

A sky-blue hoof silence him as Skylight quickly rushed to drown out his words. ‘Carrying you two today was tiring, so we’re going to sleep earlier.”

A grin filled Cadence’s muzzle, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “I’ve used that excuse enough to know it when I hear it. What’s really happening tonight?”

“Not what you think.” The pink on Skylight’s cheeks grew into a brilliant crimson as she lowered her eyes to the ground. “We’re just tired.”

Trying to suppress her laughter, Cadence shooed them away with a hoof. “Alright you two, go and sleep. We’ll see you in the morning.”

Cheeks burning brighter than ever, the pegasus pair rose and walked to where their two tents had been set up into a much larger one. Skylight glanced back at Cadence and Shining as she pushed Cloud inside before following herself.

With the other ponies gone, Cadence felt Shining cuddling up close to her, his lips planting warm kisses along her neck. “They’re probably just kissing and cuddling in there,” He said. “Away from your watching eyes.”

Nodding, Cadence felt a rush of warmth in her chest, her sly grin fading into a small smile. “I know, it makes me so happy to see their relationship grow. It reminds me of how we were.”

A yawn broke through Shining’s jaw as he pulled away from Cadence, meeting her eyes with his. “With those two distracted, why don’t we have a little fun of our own tonight?”

Cadence stole a glance at the mismatched tent beside her. They'll hear us for sure, One side of her thought as fantasies of what Shining and her could do filled her head. But they’ll be so distracted by each other they’ll never know. The other side of her argued.

Eventually she lowered her eyelids, a leant into Shining to steal another kiss. “I’ve been craving some fun. What do you have planned?”

Shining’s lips parted for a moment before his brow creased with question. “I’ve actually got nothing, you’re usually the one with all of the crazy ideas.”

The smile on Cadence’s lips widened. “So you’re open so any of my crazy ideas?”

“Ye-” A soft nagging in Shining’s head stopped him. She nearly had me there. “As long as it doesn’t involve me becoming a mare, or either of us transforming into something we’re not. Just the two of us, together.”

Cadence pouted, the excitement in her eyes fading as she cast away dozens of ideas that had been swimming through her mind, leaving only one. Eagerness spread her lips with a smile once more as she examined the thought. “How would you like some chocolate?”

Blue eyes lit up as Shining’s jaw dropped. The desire for Cadence muddling with his want for chocolate, images of both swirling in his mind until he was left with a picture of a milky brown mare. “I’d love some,” He said, half to Cadence, half to her sweet mental counterpart.

A giggle came from Cadence’s lips as she eyed the dazed stallion before her. I wonder if he has any idea of what I’ve planned. Grasping her bags magically, She searched through the depths of its pockets, underneath the dwindling supply of pastries and pies, until she found what she was after.

Shining’s eyes bugged out once he noticed the slab of chocolate hovering before his snout. Thicker than both his forelegs put together and just as long as one, the monster was covered in what appeared to be multiple different chocolate wrappers. “Where did you get this from?”

“Well I made it, some what. It’s a mix of all of the bars I had saved for you as treats. They melted in the hot weather, so I molded them into one big lump and enchanted it with a cooling spell.”

Looking closer, Shining noticed the metallic packaging of the chocolate was indeed tinted with blue. He stared at it for a few moments, allowing his nose to explore the overpoweringly rich aroma, before shaking his dreamy thoughts away. “What does this have to do with,” He looked up at the conjoint pair of army tents. “Fun?”

Cadence’s smile widened until it almost stretched across her whole head. “Well, you’ll have to wait and see.”

“Can I look yet?” Shining had his hooves over his eyes, muzzle pressed down into the ethereal mattress.

“I’m nearly done.” Straining her neck, Cadence checked and double checked every inch of her body, making sure she had managed to complete her intentions. Satisfied, she nodded. “You can look now.”

Lifting his head, Shining blinked rapidly before resorting to rubbing his eyes. Am I dreaming? Surely this can’t be possible. Before him stood Cadence, as she had in many of his dreams, coated from snout to tail in chocolate. The only other colors that showed were the pink of her eyelids and the pink, purple, and cream of her mane and tail.

“Do you like it?” She spun as she spoke, giving Shining a full view of her coated body. Along the milky brown curves of her back, down the roundness of her rump, flashing a hint of pink as she lifted her tail.

Looking closer, Shining noticed the chocolate moved with Cadence, rippling as her limbs moved and rear bounced ever so slightly. “It’s beautiful,” He breathed. “Better than I could ever dream.”

“What are you waiting for then? Why don’t we have some fun?”

At the invitation Shining dove forward, grasping Cadence’s lips greedily between his own. The taste of chocolate mixed with the roughness of her tongue and the scent of her coat. Amazing, He thought, before diving in deeper.

When he pulled back a splatter of pink showed through Cadence’s brown coat. Realising she could feel the cool night air on her muzzle once more, she lifted a hoof to confirm her suspicions. “Sorry,” She said, working her magic to shift the chocolate back into place. “It’ll be-”

Shining pressed his hoof against her lips, stopping the slow stream of chocolate from covering the color of her coat. “Don’t, just leave it the way it is.” Leaning forward, he replaced the hoof with his tongue, clearing the chocolate off of her muzzle. “I’ll eat it off of you bit by bit.”

Nodding, Cadence closed her eyes as she felt his lips moving down her neck, nipping and lapping at the sweetness that covered her along the way. Along her back and down her thigh he continued, leaving a trail of pink connecting one set of lips to another.

Tentatively, she felt him tasting at the nectar underneath her tail, his tongue cautious, as if it were tasting her for the first time. “Shining,” She gasped as he entered, stretching her lips with a swirl of his tongue.

Another breath escaped Cadence’s lips as he left, this one holding a hint of sorrow. She stood as still as a statue as Shining’s muzzle swept over her rear, criss-crossing and circling through the chocolate until both of her pink cheeks were visible.

Satisfied, he moved back to her nethers, pulling softly at her lips, rubbing the roughness of his tongue against her nub. This time he stayed for longer, bracing his hooves against her rump and lapping at the sweet flesh and juices inside.

Cadence felt a familiar tightness between her hips building up. Each stroke and swirl of Shining’s tongue inside her raising the tension to another degree. She bit her lower lip, clenching her inner walls slightly to aid in his stimulation.

A sharp gasp pierced through the night air as Shining took one long lap against her lips, the feeling between Cadence’s lips about to burst forth. She gasped again as he drew away, leaving the tightness just below its climax.

Shining, please finish me, She thought, wanting to speak, but only managing to produce an incoherent breath with her shaking lips. Desperately, she flicked her tail up, trying to grasp as Shining’s head, pull his rough tongue back into her lips once more. In her state all she only managed to flail it, brushing over his muzzle lightly.

She felt Shining grin behind her, a chuckle rumbling through his chest as he tasted her chocolatey coat. Unable to do anything but hold her body upright, Cadence squeezed herself around nothing as his lips moved along her back, hoping to find enough stimulation to push herself over the edge.

Another gasp broke through her lips, this one tainted with frustration, when Cadence realised her attempts were futile. Shining’s muzzle was climbing her neck, nibbling a trail through the thin layer of chocolate toward her lips.

When his mouth graced hers she met his eyes and found humour there. She tasted the strong flavour of chocolate mixed with the bitter sweetness of her nethers on his tongue, the taste of herself causing a shiver to run along her spine.

“Please,” Cadence breathed as they broke apart. “I’m so close, just a little more.”

Wordless, Shining smiled, kissing at her lips again before moving down her neck once more, paving a trail of pink through the milky brown.

Yes, She thought when she felt the subtle warmth of his tongue against her dripping wet lips. No, She cried inwardly as she felt him retreat, her tail flicking hopelessly, searching for his head but finding nothing.

“Don’t worry,” Cadence heard him say as she felt the weight of hooves pressing against her rear. “You’ll love this even more.”

She felt a breath catch in her throat as his burning hot tip pressed into her nethers, shifting slightly, feeling for the entrance before plunging inside.

The breath she had been holding was punched out of her as his fiery length drove inside, cooled instantly by the overflow of her juices. Squeezing her inside tight around him, Cadence felt at his length, He’s almost finished as well, She realised.

Out and back in Shining drove, only needing a few swift strokes before Cadence felt herself nearing the end once more. With one final grunt she felt him cease inside her, the hardness of his shaft relaxing slightly.

Before throbbing wildly, the warmth of his seed flooding her insides, the final push Cadence needed for her to fall over the edge. Her lips tightened around his shaft, locking Shining inside as her inner muscles spasmed around him, drinking in every drop.

Panting and spent, the pair stood still locked together, a mixture of his white seed and her clear juices dripping from her opening. Patches of chocolate still coated Cadence’s body, the ends of Shining’s hooves lathered in the substance.

“Somehow,” Cadence breathed once she had recovered to the point where her lips and tongue would move. “That was, better, than the spa.”

His muzzle roaming the areas of Cadence’s body still coated in the milky sweetness, Shining swallowed before speaking. “Really?”

Cadence’s brow creased as she twisted her head back to face Shining. “Yes. Do not think so?”

“I definitely think it was better,” Shining leant down and scooped a mouthful of chocolate off Cadence’s back with his tongue. “But I can’t see how you had so much fun without eating any chocolate.”

A smirk slowly spread across Cadence’s lips until it burst forth as a giggle. “Oh Shining, sometimes I forget how much you love that food.” Stepping forward slowly, she eased herself off of his now softening shaft, wincing at the loud splattering of Shining’s seed against the rock beneath. “I hope Cloud or Skylight didn’t hear that.”

“If you were worrying about being heard then that sound wasn’t the one which would have woke them.” He grinned wide as he met her eyes, a tint of brown covering his teeth.

Wincing again, Cadence thought back to her cries as she climaxed before returning Shining’s smile. “Well, the worst they can do is complain tomorrow.” Her shoulders sunk as thoughts of sleep entered her mind, a yawn breaking the smile on her lips. “We should get some sleep now, there’s a lot of rock between us and Rockholm.”

Shining nodded, looking up at the brightly lit city in the distance before sinking to his haunches and spreading out on the mattress beneath him. A white hoof patted the ethereal expanse beside him, motion for Cadence to join.

“It looks so beautiful from here, doesn’t it,” She commented as she magically drew the remaining chocolate from her body, hardening it with a spell before tossing the small slab toward the door.

A blue glow caught the chocolate. “Why would you throw away good chocolate?” Shining’s features were painted with horror, the brown bar held close to his chest.

“Well, I didn’t think you’d want it, after it’s been all over my coat.”

Smiling once more, Shining gently pulled her down beside him, kissing her in the process. “That only makes it better.” Gathering the packaging with his magic, he rewrapped the bar before depositing it within Cadence’s bags.

She stuck out her tongue, “Remind me not to eat that.”

“Of,” A yawn ceased Shining’s speech. “Course. More for me that way.” Another yawn pushed between his lips as he lowered his head onto the mattress, eyelids sinking shut. “Good night Cadence, I love you.”

Feeling the weight of sleep herself, Cadence brushed her lips against his cheek before curling up beside him. “I love you too.”

The Horrors of a Family

“Shining!”

The voice pierced through the darkness of Shining’s half-sleep, a hoof against his side shaking him awake. Desperately he clung to the scraps of sleep that remained, scrunching his eyes tighter in attempt to ignore the morning sun against his eyelids.

“Shining, get up, a pair of dragons have come out to meet us.”

“Cadence, I-” Shining’s mumbled words caught in his throat as one of Cadence’s words lit up in his head. Slowly, he uncurled and lifted his head, cracking his eyes open enough to see what was before him. “Did you say dragons?”

Mmhmm.” The blurry pink muzzle before him bobbed up and down. “They said the king sent them, that they’re going to fly us to him right now.”

Shining’s body shrunk at the mention of flight, eyes squeezing tight once more and head curling close into his chest. “Tell them we’ll be fine walking.”

“Oh come on Shining.” He felt her tug on his foreleg, pulling it out from underneath him. “It’s only a short flight.” Still he wouldn’t budge. Frowning, Cadence rolled her eyes upward, thinking. Eventually a wicked smile spread across her muzzle. “If you don’t you’ll get wet.”

Curling himself tighter, Shining flattened his ear against his head to block out the ringing of Cadence’s horn. “You wouldn’t.”

A jet of water answered him, sending a jolt through Shining’s body. “Okay I’ll get up,” He said quickly, not wanting to end up as drenched as he had a few days previous. Springing to his hooves, he wiped the wetness from his shoulder before turning to Cadence. “Can I at least have breakfast first?”

A pair of blueberry pies disappeared down Shining’s throat as Cadence dissipated their tent, Cloud and Skylight’s already packed away. The pegasi pair sat a few steps away from Shining, both eyeing the armored pair of dragons, Cloud with marvel, Skylight with suspicion.

When both pies were stuffed inside him, Shining shifted his eyes to the dragons as well. They stood on four legs as thick as his body, forelegs longer than the rear. Dull black plate trimmed with ruby red covered most of their length, spaces in the armor exposing their muzzles, necks and bellies and left room for their wings and legs to protrude.

Their necks were as broad as their legs, a line of blunt spikes trailing down them to disappear underneath their armor. Behind them stood the great obsidian wall of Rockholm, its surface reflecting the morning sun. Open-topped towers protruded from it every so often, the spiked heads of dragons visible upon their rooves.

The four ponies had camped a short distance from the walls the previous night, all agreeing it would be best to face the dragons in the light of day.

“How long have they been here?” Shining whispered as he shuffled close to the pegasi.

“Since sunrise,” Skylight answered, grinding her teeth. “The sound of their wings woke me.”

Cloud appeared to take no notice of their conversation, his eyes fixated on the pair of dragons before him, jaw slack.

Hoofsteps behind the three signaled Cadence’s approach, along with the sound of something sailing through the air.

“Ow,” Shining cried as his saddlebags hit him in the back of the head. Rubbing the sore spot, he turned and glared at Cadence. “What was that for?”

A giggle burst from Cadence’s grinning lips. “I was just making sure you’re completely awake.” The laughter on her lips faded as she looked up at the approaching dragons. “It seems like it’s time to go now.”

The draconic pair halted before the group and bowed as deeply as their armor would allow. “Princess Cadence,” One of the guards began, his voice clear and crisp, as if he had been announcing such titles all his life. His scales were a rich forest green, with a pale yellow underbelly to match. “Prince Shining, and others. We have come to accompany you to Obsidian, the reigning king of the Dragon Lands.”

Both dragons bent their legs, lowering their bodies to the stone. “If you would climb atop us, we will fly you to him immediately,” The other boomed, his scales a fiery mix of orange and red.

All four ponies sat wordless for a few moments, their minds flooded with rivers of thoughts.

Prince Shining? Both Cadence and Shining thought, their eyes meeting. Cloud’s head was filled with fantasies of the world beyond the wall, fiery pit and great troves of treasure, fearsome dragons and brave knights willing to slay them.

Skylight broke from her thoughts first, her already creased brow lowering with hostility, lips parting slightly to bare her teeth. “They’ll fly on Cloud and I, not you dragons.” She twisted her mouth a the word, as if it left a bad taste.

Hearing Skylight’s hostility snapped Cadence away from her worrying. thoughts of Shining pushed away for a moment. She stepped forward and draped a foreleg over the pegasus’s withers, smiling warmly. “Skylight, the dragons are friendly remember. They won’t hurt us.”

“I know, but I’d feel better if you flew on me.”

“Ar-”

The red dragon’s rumbling chuckle cut off Cadence’s soothing words, the deep sound akin to a distant earthquake. “Don’t worry princess, we guards have thick skin to this kind of thing. Whether it’s from ponies or other dragons.” His eyes flicked over Skylight’s slim frame, smiling at the size of her wings compared to his. “I doubt she can carry you anyway.”

Cadence rolled her eyes as she noticed Skylight’s nostrils flaring, chest inflating as she unfolded her wings. He just had to say one last thing, didn’t he.

“Being a dragon doesn’t make you any stronger or faster,” The puffed up pegasus said, wings extending completely with an audible snap.

Rolling his shoulders, the fiery red dragon slowly opened his own wings, the leathery expanses a dozen times the size of Skylight herself. “Why don’t you prove it?”

Skylight shrugged Cadence’s hoof from her shoulder, turning away from the pony trying to comfort her to point at the deep black wall. “A race to the wall and back?”

“Deal.”

The two shot off before anyone else could speak. Skylight a tiny blue dot beside the monstrous red beast.

“He always gets himself into these kind of challenges, it’s like he enjoys it or something.”

The three ponies looked around for the source of the voice for a moment before they realised it came from the dragon before them. His head shook as he watched the two colors shrink against the backdrop of black.

“That mare sure is a fast one however,” The dragon continued, eyes still set on the distant racers. “I’ve never seen anyone tail Signa that closely.”

Following the dragon’s eyes, Cloud allowed himself to smile as he spied the two fliers returning, Skylight appearing to be neck and neck with Signa. “She sure is an amazing pegasus, you’re not wrong about that, but you’re wrong about the race. Signa seems to be behind her.”

Cloud took a few steps backward, the two beside him doing the same moments before Skylight slammed into the stone where the had just stood. Her white cheeks were awash with red and spread with a grin.

Pushing back her mane, she turned and watched as Signa landed beside his partner, the impact cracking the ground beneath him.

“I’ve never met a pony who could best me, and the dragons who can are few,” He rumbled, his smile showing sharp yellow teeth. “What’s you’re name pony?”

“Nectar.”

“Nectar. I’ll remember that. It will be enjoyable to watch you race other dragons.”

“Signa, enough of this racing,” The other dragon said, his words tearing the smile from Signa’s muzzle. “We have a duty to do.” Turning to Skylight, he narrowed his eyes. “It seems you have won the opportunity to carry the princess and prince with this race.” His lips twisted at the word. “So we will simply guide you.”

Without waiting for a word from anyone else, he sprung into the air, his fiery red companion following, lips moving wordlessly. Nectar, Nectar.

“Well that was, interesting,” Cadence said slowly, confusion over recent events still filling her head. “Why did you give him a fake name Skylight?”

Eyes rising to meet the dragons that hovered above them, Skylight shook her head slightly. “He feels strange, like he’s hiding something. We should get going anyway.”

It took moments for the ponies to perform their preflight routines. The pegasi passing their bags to the ponies who would ride them before bending low to the ground. Shining took some coaxing from Cadence before he climbed atop Cloud, eyes scrunched tight.

The draconic pair set and easy pace a short distance ahead of them, allowing the burdened pegasi to keep up easily.

Cadence marvelled at the city once they reached a height to peek over the wall. Rows and rows of streets extended into the horizon, each packed with buildings hewn from all sorts of stone. The red of ruby, green of emerald, deep blue of sapphire and many other gems dotted her vision, but the majority of the city was black on grey streets.

It looks like such a sad city, She thought.

As they continued to follow the dragons, deeper and deeper into the heart of the city, Cadence noticed there were others in the air with them. Other dragons of all sizes and colors, some so small they would have stood a head shorter than Cadence herself, and one so monstrous wouldn’t fit through the great doors of Canterlot palace.

Unlike the bright coats the four ponies possessed, the scales of every dragon were dull. Oranges, greens, reds and even one pink, but all were tinted with black.

Every so often they passed tall towers that soared high above all else, some so tall Cadence could almost feel her hooves brushing against their roofs when they passed overhead. The walls of each one were solid black, so smooth they appeared to be hewn from one stone. A different color fringed each tower, the same dull colors the dragons wore.

Do I know this place? Cadence thought after some time, her eyes managing to pick out streets that seemed familiar, buildings she swore she had seen before. It’s like I’ve been here before, but when? Her mind swam as they continued to fly, frustration tainting her thoughts as she struggled to grasp memories just beyond her reach.

Eventually she shook her head, dismissing the notion. It must just be my imagination. The buildings below were spacing out, streets widening and lightening from the dull grey to a sandy yellow.

The feeling of familiarity grew as well, a nagging feeling in the back of Cadence’s mind, something she couldn’t ignore. Maybe it just looks a lot like Canterlot, She thought, before realising how wrong she was comparing the pearly whiteness of her home city to the dullness of Rockholm.

“We’re landing,” Skylight grunted, breaking Cadence out of her thoughts before they tilted downward, the ground coming up to meet them.

When the strain on her stomach had settled, Cadence opened the eyelids she couldn’t recall closing. “You didn’t have to land so quickly,” She whispered in Skylight’s air. The pegasus underneath her shook gently as Cadence heard her chuckle.

“That landing is the least of our worries.”

Looking up, Cadence realised what Skylight meant. They stood in the centre of a long sandstone path, dragons lining either side of it. Most of them she assumed to be guards, fitted with armor similar to that their escorts had worn, but between the gaps in their ranks she spied the faces of other dragons.

“What is this?” She asked breathily as she climbed from Skylight’s back, stretching her already numbing legs.

Skylight chuckled, looking up and down the lines of dragons. “It’s a royal greeting, you should be honoured.” The smirk on her muzzle showed how she truly felt.

Gazing around, Cadence stood in awe of the amount of dragons that had came out to greet her, many more still descending from the sky, like a hailstorm of all different colors.

“Out of my way.” The voice caught her attention, raised above the soft murmur that ran through the crowd around her. “Part before your prince.” The voice called again, followed by a yelp.

Trying to find the voice with her eyes, Cadence noticed the dragons to one side of her looking backward, their voices quieting as they parted. She noticed a long red neck in the distance, the head it carried bearing a scowl as its eyes flicked from side to side, lips sometimes flaring to show the long yellow spikes hidden behind.

The crowd before her parted to reveal the body it was attached to. Slender legs held it up, the muscle beneath the ruby red scales rippling with each step. Bright yellow coated his underbelly, from underneath his chin to the tip of his tail. His scales are so bright, Cadence thought, forced to squint at the sunlight reflecting from the polished surface.

A wall of spikes ran along his back and tail, their color identical to his belly, each point joined with a leathery webbing. A grin lit up his muzzle when he spied Cadence, a long tongue running along his lips.

“Princess,” He called when he realised she was staring back. His snout brushed against the sandstone path as he mocked a bow. Greedy eyes held Cadence, climbing over her shoulders and along her back, eyeing her rump before returning to her face.

Taking a step backward, Cadence swung her gaze around her before meeting the dragon’s eyes once more. The guards appeared to have stepped back as well, their claws now resting on the grass of the garden that surrounded them. “Are you the king’s son?”

The dragon’s jaw dropped, eye opening wide with faux shock. “Does she not know?” He questioned as he looked at the dragons that stood a safe distance behind them before turning back to Cadence. “How could this princess not know the true ruler of this land.”

Snapping his mouth closed, he curled his lips open so only his teeth were showing, a patch of dull yellow on against his bright red scales. His eyes as well, Cadence noticed. They’re just as dull as his teeth, just as sad as this city.

She watched him lower his head until his muzzle almost rested upon the stone beneath, lips splitting as he grinned. The emotion wasn’t reflected in his faded gold eyes however, They’re like the eyes of a terrified foal whose lost his mother.

“I’ve been waiting for you some time princess.” He stalked around her as he spoke, like a lion his forelegs were bent, tail raised, as if he were going to pounce. “Nothing fun happens around here, but I heard you were coming and I didn’t want you to have a boring time. So I thought I’d plan some excitement.”

His circle around her complete, he brought his muzzle up close to hers, one of his claws against her cheek. “Too bad you won’t be here to watch it.”

Before Cadence’s eyes his lips parted, the warmth and rank stench of his breath filling her nostrils. He’s going to eat me, She realised, but when she tried to move her legs, summon her magic, nothing happened. Move Cadence!

The deep red of his throat opened up before her, the points of his teeth touching against her neck, pricking at her skin. She felt teeth brush over her ears and sink into her mane as well, their ends touching her skin before stopping. It’s over, I didn’t even get to kiss Shining goodbye.

Eyes still staring at the wet flesh before her, Cadence waited for the teeth to puncture her coat and tear through her neck, but the final bite never came. Perking her ears up, she realised she could no longer hear the distant beating of wings in the background, nor feel the breath of the dragon before her.

Maybe this is death, She thought. Maybe you’re frozen in your last moments forever? She felt a warmth in her chest, a pressure building like a ball. Or maybe this is death, you fade away from the inside out. The feeling grew hotter, until it felt as if her belly were full of fire, a blazing ball of light, wanting to burst out.

Light, it caught the corner of her eye, seeming to come from all around her but nowhere at the same time. The heat followed, burning the back of her eye, clouding her vision with brilliant gold until she could see no longer. She heard a familiar giggle ringing in her ears and the taste of cake on her tongue. Is it over?

And then she took a breath.

The heat burst forth from her with crackle, her whole body feeling on fire for a moment before she was cool once more. Blinking rapidly, Cadence slowly regained her vision, the crowd of dragons still gathered around her, their eyes pinned to the floor.

Following them, she found a belly of yellow facing toward the sky, a ruby red dragon splayed out underneath it. His eyes flickered open, body twisting as he found his claws. Looking to Cadence, his eyes widened, the fear that lay there more obvious than ever, “How?”

Realising he was surrounded, he quickly covered the terror on his features with anger, casting back the dragons who surrounded him with a roar. “You should’ve just let me eat you.” He sprung into the air, ruby wings taking hold of the wind and pulling him higher.

Up and away he flew, every eye following him until he was but a blur amidst the sea of fliers.

Looking back downward, Cadence realised most of the dragons were staring at her, more with every second that passed. “The princess!” A cheer went up from somewhere in the crowd, another voice echoing it.

“The princess,” A hatchling who stood at the front of the crowd yelled, his tiny grey wings flaring up and brushing against the legs of those behind him. The cheer ran back and forth through the dull rainbow of dragons until it was a mix of whistling, shouting and clapping, Cadence magically blocking her ears to not be deafened by the din.

She felt a touch against her shoulder and turned into a hug from Shining. “What happened Cadence?” He asked as he buried his muzzle into her mane. “A massive crowd gathered around you and I couldn’t push through. Skylight and Cloud flew up to get a better view and then there was a flash. What happened to you?”

Cadence glanced at the throng of dragons around her and then up into the sea of colors the prince had disappeared into. Her lips trembled as she tried to speak, her mind a muddle of emotion, but for one thought that stuck out. I almost died.

The corners of her eyes grew wet, her throat tightening as she choked back a sob. Cuddling her head close into Shining, she allowed the tears to flow, her forelegs shaking, his wrapping around her, holding her upright.

Noticing Cadence’s state, Shining felt a pang of confusion as he eyed the cheering dragons around them. “What happened?” He asked again.

Strangling the want to curl up in his grasp and have him cradle her like a foal, Cadence breathed deeply, and brought her lips to Shining’s ear. “Inside, I’ll tell you inside.”

Shining nodded, propping her up against him before turning and heading back up the sandstone pathway. The sea of dragons parted before them, every eyes on the pink princess and her prince.

“I apologize deeply for my son’s behaviour.”

They stood in the throne room, hooves resting upon a strip on creamy marble that formed a pathway through the ocean of obsidian that was most of the palace’s floors. The king sat slumped upon one of the two thrones that lay at the far end of the room, the golden structure large enough for the group of ponies to set their tents up on and more. His scales were true to his name, black as a moonless night with an ash grey underbelly to match.

Small crusts beneath Cadence’s eyes showed where her tears had fallen. “It is not your fault,” She said, trying to meet the king’s gaze but failing. Instead she stared at the floor, I think I now know why Skylight’s wary of dragons. “I’m just glad to still be alive, thanks to Celestia.”

The dragon king shook his head, confusion obvious in the lines that creased his face. “I still do not understand how you claim your princess saved you from the other side of Equestria. Surely the magic must have been of your doing.”

Biting her lip, Cadence examined the speckles that dotted the stone beneath her. I still don’t know how she does it, She thought. How can she possibly know I’m in danger, and if she does know, why does she leave it until it’s almost too late?

Instead of voicing her doubts she lifted her eyes slightly, the dragon king’s claws holding her focus, and lit her horn. “Well, as you can see my magic is blue, and everyone claims the blast was golden, even if I couldn’t see it too well myself. Celestia is the only pony I know who has that color of magical aura.”

“I see,” The dragon king said, nodding, even though his eyes still held doubt. “But it does not matter how, what matters is that you are safe.” He lifted his eyes, looking over them at the distant wall, as if he were trying to recall something forgotten. “Ah yes,” He exclaimed eventually. “Introductions have slipped my mind.”

Bowing his head deeply, he pointed a claw to his chest. “I am Obsidian, King of the Dragon Lands.” He rested his eyes on Cadence. “You must be the princess,” Glancing at the other three, he frowned before pointing to Skylight. “Are you the prince?”

Red exploded across Skylight’s face, “I’m a mare,” She said, stroking her short mane with a hoof.

“Oh,” A smile cracked across Obsidian’s lips. “I do apologize. I merely assumed the princess’s strongest companion would be her prince.” He turned to Cloud. “It must be you then.”

Cadence sighed deeply before wrapping a foreleg over Shining’s withers, “Well actually this one’s my prince.” She pressed her lips into his cheek, the feeling of him beside her giving Cadence the courage to meet Obsidian's eyes with a smile. “His name is Shining Armor.”

“Ah yes,” Obsidian clasped his claws together. “And the names of your friends?”

“Cloud and Skylight,” Shining answered, pointing out each pony with his hoof. “But enough introductions. I was wondering who told you I’m a prince? I didn’t even know myself?”

“Really?” Question replaced the lines of laughter around Obsidian’s eyes. Signalling with a claw, he called over another dragon, his scales a sandy yellow with a white underbelly to match, who held a parchment in his wing. “It is written here that you two are betrothed,” The king said as he unrolled the paper before his eyes. “Is this incorrect?”

Cadence met Shining’s eyes, the small smile on his lips comforting her. “No it’s right. We just didn’t expect Celestia to be telling everyone so soon. Our marriage is still years away.”

“Ah.” The king handed the parchment back to his assistant before turning to the four before him once more. “And may I ask you one thing before I show you to your rooms? When did the arrangements change? I thought the prince and princess were travelling alone.”

Everyone looked to Cadence for an answer. “We were” She said quickly. “But along the way we met them, and they wanted to leave where they were living and move to somewhere else.” Maybe here? She thought but kept the words to herself, wanting to leave that question to the two pegasi.

“Mmm, a change of scenery is something I desire as well.” Looking off into the distance, Obsidian sighed. “the pressure of kingship is a heavy burden more often than not, sometimes I wish I could abandon it and be free once more, but enough with me. I will show you to your rooms.”

Without another word, Obsidian rose and flicked a claw at the sandy colored dragon again. With a nod the servant stepped toward the nearest wall and pushed his claw into the obsidian.

“Amazing isn’t it?” The dragon king commented as the wall behind the pair of thrones slid sideways, not even a whisper signalling its movement.

Following Obsidian, Cloud examined the track the door slid along as he stepped through it, confusion creasing his brow when he found nothing but shadow. “How does it work?”

“The stone floats on a small pool of molten rock, allowing for soundless movement. The doors are a recent addition to the castle, much better than the scraping I had to bare before.”

The long hallway behind the throne room was lit with a line of soft flames on either side. Its roof rose high enough to accompany Obsidian’s height with ease, the four ponies merely tiny dots in the vast expanse of the room.

A stairway rose at the end of the hallway, polished back stairs split into several sizes. One half of the stairway was formed from stairs taller than the ponies themselves, each set of stair progressively shrinking as they moved across.

The ponies climbed one end of the stairway while the dragon king climbed the other. “These are the royal apartments,” He announced as they met again the the top. “The rooms are spacious even for one as large as I, so I presume they will one large enough for the four of you.”

There were two doors in the long stretch of hall before them before their vision disappeared up another set of stairs. They walked in silence down the hallway before stopping at one of the doors. “If you desire anything simply ask, I will be down in my throne room for the remainder of the day.”

Obsidian half turned away before recollection struck his features, “I almost forgot. There is a festival tomorrow to celebrate the first day of the month. If you are feeling well enough I hope to see you there.” He dipped his head slightly before turning and striding back down the hall, disappearing into the stairway.

Alone at last, the four ponies shared silent glances, no one knowing quite what to say.

Eventually Cadence spoke up, “Well, we may as well unpack, maybe we can take a walk around the town before night falls?”

“What happened?”

“So what happened back there?”

Both Skylight and Shining spoke at once, Cloud’s features holding the same question.

The feeling of teeth against her neck flashed through Cadence’s mind, her breathing heavy as she looked from Shining to Skylight before resting her eyes on the floor. “I told you, I had an, an interesting meeting with the prince that didn’t end well.”

“Yes but what exactly?” Skylight demanded. “All I saw was a flash of light and that dragon fly away.”

Shining nodded, his voice quieting as he realised the effect the topic was having on Cadence. “I’d like to know as well, it seems like this has really shaken you up.”

One of Cadence’s legs shook, almost buckling before it locked back into place. “Can we head inside first, I’d rather tell you about this sitting down.”

At her word Shining pressed his hoof into the door beside them, the gigantic marble slab swinging backward with ease. “Wow, these doors really are amazing.”

Inside they found the far wall was made completely of a hazy glass, blurring their view of the outside but still allowing sunlight into the room. The room was completely empty, only a stream of lava hidden beneath a strip of glass breaking from the smooth back stone that made up the floor.

“I guess they knew we had tents,” Shining joked, his words getting no response but an eye roll from Cadence.

“I’m sure it’ll be like that building we stayed at in the lava lake,” Cadence said, stepping toward one of the walls. Lighting her horn, she moved across the smooth surface with her magic until she felt a crack. Now how did he open it?

After a few moments she recalled Ignius pressing his claw against the door. Repeating the memory Cadence found the door opened on its own, revealing a wall of cushions behind. “See, there’s cupboards hidden in all the walls.”

Without responding, Shining stepped beside up beside her and magically took a pillow from the cupboard. “There sure are a lot of pillows in there.” Placing the pillow he currently held behind him, he grasped another, and another. Soon there was a pile of the colorful cushions behind him, the cupboard still showing no signs of emptying.

“Shining, this isn’t the time,” Skylight said, the mountain of pillows between her and him dampening her voice. “Cadence still hasn’t told her story.”

“Well,” A smile pulled at the corners of Cadence’s lips, playfulness lighting her eyes as she reached for a pillow with her blue glow. “I’d rather not think about that right now, maybe a little fun can clear my mind.” She kicked backward gently, knocking over the pile of cushions.

Glancing backward, Shining grinned when he saw the two pegasi up to the neck in pillows, as if they were drowning in a sea of color. One swipe of Skylight’s wing and the smile was traded from his lips to hers.

“Hey,” Shining yelped, rubbing at his snout with a hoof. “I wasn’t the one who kicked the pillows.”

“I just wanted to wipe the smile off your face.” Skylight’s wing flicked another pillow, this one freezing in a blue aura before it made contact with Shining’s muzzle. “That’s cheating.”

Lowering the pillow to the ground, Shining bared one side of his body, magically lifting his saddlebags to show the plain coat underneath. “I don’t have wings, how else do you expect me to throw them, with my teeth?”

Skylight nodded, grabbing one of the pillows before her with her mouth. “That’s fair,” She mumbled before flicking it at Shining’s face, and hitting Cadence instead.

“Maybe we should stop this,” Cloud suggested as he saw the three ponies around him picking up pillows in their jaws. “After all the stress of today wouldn’t you rather do something else Cadence? Some relaxing and-”

His rambling was stopped by a pillow to the muzzle. When the red cushion fell Cloud discovered that it was Cadence’s mouth that was empty. “Why did you throw it at me?”

The smile on her muzzle widened as she gripped another pillow between her teeth. “You need to loosen up a little Cloud. A pillow fight is exactly what I need.” She flicked her neck and a purple projectile flew over Cloud’s head, landing on the obsidian floor behind him and sliding some distance.

Glancing out at the hard floor where her throw had landed, Cadence twisted her muzzle. “There’s just one thing I need to do before we start.” Lighting her horn, she mentally recited a spell now familiar to her, forming an ethereal mattress beneath their hooves before pulling and stretching it until it covered the entire expanse of black below them. “There, now it won’t hurt if we fall.”

No sooner than Cadence finished talking a pillow filled her still open mouth, the grinning Skylight the one with her muzzle empty this time.

Another pillow flew between the four, this one brushing Skylight’s bent foreleg. “Any teams?” She questioned, glancing back as the pillow sunk under the glowing mattress.

“I think you know the answer to that,” Cadence replied with a muffled voice before her and Shining tossed a pair of emerald green pillows at the other two.

Both hit the pegasi dead in the chest, stunning them briefly as prince and princess dashed away, a pile of pillows magically trailing behind each one.

“Do you have any strategies?” Skylight questioned as she piled pillows onto her back with one wing, the other forming half a bowl to cradle the load. “Or are we going by instinct?”

Cloud glanced looked timidly between her and the two ponies at the far end of the room. “I don’t even know if I want to do this. It feels wrong fighting your friends.”

“Then pretend they’re not.” The stack on her back threatening to topple, Skylight cupped her other wing around the cushions. “Pretend it’s that card game. We’re the dragons and they’re the changelings.”

“But, I don’t know if I can.”

Shaking her head, Skylight’s chest shook with a chuckle. “You said you always dreamed of being a brave knight slaying dragons when you were a foal. Dream now, expect instead of a sword you have a pillow.” Picking up a grey one with her teeth, she tossed it gently at him.

And Cloud caught it. He swung it back and forth through the air with his neck, testing the weight, before smiling as best he could at Skylight. “It feels a little different to a sword, but it’ll do.”

The pair stared down the long room to find the other couple were nowhere to be seen, a tower of pillows in their place instead. Shining’s head peeked over the top, a grin on his lips and pillow between them, before he quickly ducked back down.

“Ready?” Skylight asked, her words muffled by a pillow.

Cloud nodded, the cushion in his mouth bouncing up and down with his head.

“Charge!”

The almost indiscernible word rung through the room, coaxing both Shining and Cadence to pop their heads out from their keep. Two pillows, one pink, the other yellow, bounced off of the wall beside their heads, causing them to dive back into hiding.

“Okay,” Skylight grunted, as she tossed another pillow to Cloud. “I want you to charge into the side of their fort and knock it over, then when they’re unprotected I’ll throw everything at them.”

Catching the pillow between his teeth, Cloud glanced at the pile atop Skylight’s back, supported with her wings. “Won’t you have to use your wings to throw all those pillows at once? That’s cheating.”

The grin on Skylight’s lips stretched a hoof wider. “This is a battle, win at all costs.”

They were nearing the curved wall of cushions now, Cadence and Shining nowhere in sight.

“Be careful when we get close,” Skylight warned. “I’m sure they have something hidden behind that fort.”

Nodding, Cloud swung out to the side, aiming his shoulder to just brush against the soft wall, as not to collide with its inhabitants. The moment the side of his body struck orange fabric, he felt a tingling. This isn’t just pillows.

Glancing back at Skylight, he saw her standing still, each of her wings sticking straight out at her sides, loaded with pillows. He felt his shoulder pushing deeper into the pillows before it stopped, The pillows are pushing back.

Cloud curled his wings round his body defensively as he was launched from the fort like a cannonball, a blast of blue energy following him. Below him Skylight followed through with her plan, flinging a dozen pillows from each wings toward the now exposed Shining and Cadence.

Explosion hit explosion with multi-colored marshmallows colliding in midair. A few managed to make it through and bounce harmlessly off the floor beside their marks, but most impacted with each other and fell straight to the floor.

Cloud bounced across the ethereal mattress himself, thankful for Cadence’s forward thinking as he skidded to a halt, pillows still raining down from above. Laughter filled his ears as he rose, the harmonious giggles of Shining and Cadence and the reserved chuckling of Skylight.

“I thought we said no magic princess?” Skylight said, a smile still on her lips.

“We only cheated because we knew you would,” Cadence responded, Shining agreeing with a nod. “But who cares, that was fun. Just what I needed to relieve some stress.” Sighing, she sunk to the ground, eyes meeting Shining’s.

Noticing the smile on Cadence’s face shrink, Shining draped his foreleg over her withers and squeezed. “Are you ready to tell us what happened?”

Cadence nodded. “But before I say anything,” Turning, she met Skylight’s gaze. “Don’t take this as a reason to hold anything against dragons, this is just one dragon.” She felt Shining’s grip tighten around her as the two pegasi stepped forward and sat.

Where do I start, She thought, stepping backward through the shock of Celestia’s magic, the bone numbing terror of the prince’s teeth against her neck, the voice through the crowd that had started it all.

And relived the experience, explaining each part as best as she could remember, silencing Skylight and Shining with a hoof whenever she saw their lips opening to speak.

“And then I felt you behind me, Shining,” Cadence said after what seemed like an eternity, the sound of the crowd’s chant playing over and over in her head.

Skylight’s features were a twist of anger, her wings half-open, ready to spring into action. “You almost died, why didn’t you tell us before?” Hatred bit into her words, each one speaking of her rekindled hate for dragons.

“Well, because I knew you’d get like this,” Cadence said softly, resisting the urge to reach out and stroke the pegasus’s cheek, calm her as she would’ve calmed Twilight. “I didn’t want any of you causing a scene before the crowd or the king, he already knows how his son is.

A mixture of anger and worry painted Shining’s face, his foreleg that had been holding Cadence had been joined by the other, the pair guarding his princess. “We can’t just pretend it didn’t happen.” A choke ceased his speech, teeth clamping over his lips to hold back the tears he felt like crying.

“I know.” Feeling the tension in Shining’s body, Cadence pressed her muzzle into his neck, relaxing him with a stroke of her snout. “But I don’t want to punish him for it. He seemed confused, I could see it in his eyes. Something happened to make him this way.”

Cloud nodded, his eyes unfocused but filled with thought. “We should ask the king about it tomorrow, I’m sure he’ll be able to tell us what happened.” Fixating his eyes on Cadence, a smile spread across his lips. “And once you know the problem, you can help him, just like you helped me.”

“Help him?” Both Shining and Skylight exclaimed, as if the prospect was impossible.

“Well what else do you propose we do, kill him?” Cadence flicked her eyes between the unicorn and pegasus, watching Shining’s head fall and rage flare in Skylight’s eyes.

“He’s beyond helping,” Skylight said, both wings extending to their fullest.

Looking to his side, Cloud touched his hoof gently against the base of one of Skylight’s wings. Slow and circular rubs helped ease it closed as he spoke, “No one’s beyond helping Skylight. I used to faint at the sight of you remember? I thought I could never get rid of that terrible thing, but Cadence and Shining didn’t give up. Even a killer can be changed.”

“But that was different,” Skylight protested, her voice degrees calmer than it had been previously, eyelids relaxing as she allowed Cloud to fold her wings away. “You did that for love, why would this dragon change?”

“I don’t know.” Cloud’s eyes fell slightly, his massaging slowing. “But no one’s evil without a reason. Tomorrow we can ask the king about it.”

Silence fell over the four, the couples cuddling close to each other, muttering incomprehensible words to one another. After some time Shining spoke up, “So, what are we doing for the rest of the day?”

Cadence looked up, her eyes surprised to find sunlight still filtering in through the windows at one end of the room. “It’s still day?” A heavy breath passed between her lips. followed by a chuckle. “So much has happened today it feels like it should be night time already.” Still staring at the glass, she heard her belly growl.

The other three’s eyes fell on her, each one smirking or chuckling.

“I think it’s time to find something to eat,” Shining said, a smile still on his lips. “The king did say if we wanted anything just ask.”

After many questions and turning down plate after plate of meat, the four finally found themselves back in their room, a pair of pie dishes set out before them.

Blueberries stained the muzzles of Skylight and Shining, while Cloud’s was dyed red with the juices of raspberry. Cadence had managed to keep her lips clean from any fruit, her small bites still leaving her with a quarter of a pie where the others had finished theirs.

Resting on his side, Shining eyed the remainder of Cadence’s pie as she nibbled at it, wishing it were his mouth the sweet pastry was kissing instead of hers.

Wiping her muzzle with a hoof, Skylight stretched her wings for the half-hundredth time, boredom in her eyes. “We’ve eaten, what now?”

Mouth frozen in midair, Cadence lowered her pie. “Well the king said there’s a festival tomorrow, but today? I think he just expects us to stay in our room.” Her lips returned to the pie, content with her answer.

Skylight rolled onto her back, legs held upward, moving idly. “But sitting in this room is boring. Can’t we go out?”

Looking at the window beside them, Cadence shrugged. “You can always go out and fly if you want.”

Taking one look at the murky light the window let in, Skylight shivered. “Not when the sky’s full of dragons. Not after what happened today.”

Cadence opened her mouth, another lecture on how all dragons weren’t the same on her lips, but the ghostly feeling of the prince’s teeth against her neck stopped her. I don’t know if I’ll ever look at a dragon the same after that. Instead she nodded, “Maybe after I’ve finished eating we can take a walk around the castle?”

Flipping back onto her stomach, Skylight nodded. “Anything other than sitting here.”

Abandoning her dainty bites, Cadence smeared her muzzle with red as she wolfed down the final piece of raspberry pie. “Well, is everyone ready to go?”

Skylight and Cloud sprung to their hooves, eager to burn the excess energy that filled their wings. Shining moved at a slower pace, sleepy eyelids threatening to fall closed as Cadence help him up.

Leaving their bags behind, the four stepped from their room and down the hall, descended the black staircase until they found themselves facing the door to the throne room. The door opened soundlessly when Cadence magically flicked the switch beside it.

The king had been finishing his court session when they had asked for food earlier, now he was standing at the ornate stone table beside his throne, discussing something with the sandy-yellow dragon beside him.

“I hope we’re not interrupting anything,” Cadence said as she stepped up behind Obsidian, his eyes intent on the mess of words scattered across pages before him.

A smile lit his face as Obsidian turned, brow rising with surprise. “Princess, I did not expect to see you so soon. Were the pies not enough?”

Cadence shook her head, looking back at the three behind her, the king’s eyes following. “It’s not that. Some of us are getting a little restless sitting in our room, we were wondering if we could take a walk around the castle.”

“Of course, you do not even need to ask for my permission on such a matter.” His smile shrunk a little, eyes falling. “I am surprised you have recovered from your, incident, so soon. Most would be cowering for weeks after such an ordeal. I wish you a pleasant walk.” Obsidian made to turn back to his papers, but Cadence’s voice stopped him.

“Well about that,” Twisting her head backward, she met Cloud’s eyes, taking a deep breath before turning back to the king. “I don’t want to hold any grudges against your son, in fact, I’d like to talk with him, and you, about it.” She heard a pair of gasps behind her and saw shock rise across Obsidian’s features once more.

Silence filled his throat for a moment, his breath ceasing as he stared at Cadence. “Princess,” He said eventually. “I can not believe you would be so forgiving of such a dire act.” He glanced back to the desk before him, impatience obvious on the sandy dragon’s face. “But I should return to my duties, we will discuss this matter another time. A pleasant walk I wish you once more.”

Cadence felt her heart thumping in her chest as the dragon king turned away, its beats so strong she thought it might burst. Did I really just say that? Shining’s hoof pulled her away from the table and the four set off down the throne room.

“Did you just say what I think you said?” Shining whispered once he judged they were out of earshot. “You don’t hold anything against a dragon who wanted to kill you?”

“Well,” Cadence glanced from side to side, the shock on Shining’s features and the disgust on Skylight’s surrounding her. “I really do want to forgive him, but,” She bit her lip and found Cloud’s eyes, full of encouragement. “I don’t know how long it’ll be before I’m able to say that truthfully.”

The questions in the Skylight and Shining’s mouth were silenced by Cadence’s words, their tongues still as the group stepped toward the throne room entrance. Past the grey crystal doors a great hall opened up before them, orange, red and yellow carpeted a path across the floor, like great flames licking at their hooves.

I know this place, Cadence thought as she gazed at the ceiling that towered above. She had felt the same feeling as she walked through the hall after her fright, but it had been muddied by her emotions. It was the same sensation she felt in the back of her mind when they had flown over the city. But how? I’ve never been here before.

Ignoring the nagging feeling, she led the others out of the great doors that made up the palace’s entrance, their crystal the same grey of the throne room doors. With the room behind her, the feeling faded, her attention instead taken with the garden before her.

“I guess they don’t have gardeners,” Shining observed after a glance over the dull green expanse in front of him, voicing Cadence’s feelings of the place exactly.

Skylight shook her head, testing her wings on the cooling afternoon air, “Looks don’t matter, it’s a whole lot of free air.” Leaping toward the sky, she circled low above the group, taking care not to enter the never ending stream of dragons passing high overhead.

Without speaking Cloud followed her, a grin wide on his lips as he beat the monstrous wings at his sides.

“Well, at least they’re happy,” Cadence commented as she followed the pair with her eyes.

Noticing the taint of gloom in her words, Shining stepped closer, stroking her mane with a hoof. “What’s wrong Cadence? You’re safe with me, no dragon will hurt you.”

Cadence forced a smile to her lips as she ignored the reminder of the prince’s teeth against her neck, his claw pressed into her cheek. “No, it’s not that. Well not just that.” Sighing, she swept her eyes over the wilted flowers before her, their stems strangled with thorns. “This garden, it’s depressing.”

“Mmmhmm,” Shining murmured, keeping close to her as they stepped along the sandstone path. “It seems so dead, like no one takes care of it.” Every step through the garden contradicted Shining’s words, gardeners swarming over the place like bees in a hive, watering and trimming each flower, they even caught some whispering to their floral friends.

Most saw the pony couple and scampered away, as if they were a pair with the plague. “Why are they so scared of us?” Shining questioned after the dozenth time it happened.

Following the most recent gardener with her eyes, Cadence shook her head, “I don’t know, maybe they’re avoiding us because of what happened today? The blast that Celestia let off was a powerful thing.”

As they continued through the garden, Cadence heard the sound of steps on grass behind her, Is someone following us? She thought as she glanced backward, only to find nothing. Yet the sound still filled her ears as they walked.

Eventually she stopped and swung her whole body round, hoping to catch sight of their invisible follower, but once again her eyes caught nothing.

“What’s wrong Cadence?” Shining asked, turning round as well.

Flicking her eyes over the rows of wilted white lilies that surrounded them, Cadence shook her head. “I’m sure I can hear someone walking behind us.” Raising her voice, she called, “Is there anyone there?”

A rustle sounded from a nearby bush, followed by the tip of a sapphire blue snout peeking out of it. “Woah!” The snout toppled forward at the cry, a similarly colored dragon following it. Quickly it rolled onto its hind legs, a wide grin showing bright white teeth as it stared at them.

Cadence took a step toward the stranger, “Hello little one,” She said softly, even though the dragon stood eye to eye with her. “Are you the dragon who’s been following us?”

The dragon’s snout bobbed up and down, eyes running over Cadence’s body in a frantic fashion. “Are you the princess?” She questioned after a moment, the words carried by a voice that reminded Cadence of her first encounter with Twilight, soft and shy.

“Well yes, if it’s a pony princess you’re looking for. Who are you?”

Joy exploded from the dragon as she stood before prancing around Cadence, grin growing even wider and wings splaying out at her sides. “Oh yes, I knew it was you. That way you fought off Ember today was amazing. You let him think he was bout to win and then boom, he goes flying.” Stopping before Cadence, she stared at her like a puppy waiting for a treat. “Can you teach me how to do that?”

Cadence held out a hoof to stop the young dragon as she made to circle round her once more. A soft chuckle rumbled along Cadence’s neck, “Well as much as I’d like to teach you that, you’re a dragon, you need magic to make an explosion like that, and even if you had a magical spark.” Cadence lowered her eyes slightly. “I wasn’t the one who made that explosion.”

Deep blue eyes held Cadence’s pink pair as the dragon judged her, a claw stroking over the blue scales of her muzzle. “Hmmm, I guess you’re telling the truth, but then who did it?” Leaning around Cadence she spied Shining. “Was it him? I didn’t see him though, maybe he’s some mystery pony who doesn’t want his great powers revealed?”

A pink hoof against blue lips silenced the dragon, Cadence smiling as she shook her head. “No, he’s not the one who did it either.” She felt the dragon pull away, and heard her inhale deeply. “No more guesses.”

A frown crossed the dragon’s features, “But I want to know who made that magical explosion.”

“Why don’t you tell us why everyone else is avoiding us, then I’ll tell you who made the, explosion.” Cadence sensed Shining moving beside her, ears perked up, ready to listen.

After glancing between the two ponies for some time, the dragon finally groaned, rolling her eyes. “Fine, but you promise you’ll tell me?” She held out a claw, smallest talon extended.

Tentatively, Cadence touched her hoof against blue scales, a snigger sounding from the dragon as she did so.

“I forgot, you ponies don’t have claws.” Looking upward, the dragon tapped a claw against the side of her head. “Now let’s see, what was the question again?”

“Why are all the other dragons avoiding us?” Cadence answered.

“Ah, that’s easy. They see that you’re Ember’s target. So if he sees them talking to you they think they he’ll think that they’re against him. Get it?” The dragon stared at Cadence, head tilted slightly sideways, blue eyes bugged out.

Cadence stared back for a moment, mentally putting together the dragon’s rapid speech, “I think so. Then why are you talking with us?”

“I’ve seen the crazy magic you can pull off, I don’t fear Ember.” Even so, the dragon glanced up as the sky, realising those above may have heard. “You’ll protect me right?”

Meeting Shining’s eye, Cadence sucked a breath between her gritted teeth, “Well, I don’t know if I can actually, I barely escaped with my life last time I met, Ember,” The prince’s name felt strange on her tongue, like talking with a swollen tongue. “I can’t say for sure you’ll be safe.”

The dragon looked around, before turning away from the pony pair, “I better get going then,” She called back over her shoulder. “Find some place to hide.”

“Wait,” Cadence held a hoof up after the dragon, expecting her to turn back. When she kept scampering away Cadence lit her horn, surrounding the dragon in blue and pulling her back toward them. “I still want to ask you a few questions.”

Flailing her limbs, the dragon swum in mid-air, the fear on her face replaced with a smile, “See you can do that magic thing after all.”

“Yes, a little,” Cadence scrunched up her face, and lowered the dragon to the faded grass below. “But don’t worry about that right now. Can you just answer a few more questions for me?”

“Only if you answer mine first. If it wasn’t you, who did that crazy magic before?”

And I thought foal-sitting was hard, Cadence thought as she sighed. “That was another princess, Celestia.”

Swinging her head from side to side, the dragon spun around, chasing her tail as she examined the garden around them. “Where is she then? I want to meet her, then she can teach me how to beat Ember.”

The sound of wings came from above, drawing the three’s attention to the sky as Cloud and Skylight descended.

Landing beside Cadence, Skylight leant her muzzle toward a pink ear, “Who’s-” Was all she could manage before the a blue bundle of scale collided with her, knocking her onto the ground and wrapping her in a tight hug.

“Are you the other princess? Celestia? Will you teach me how to do that crazy magic. Please?”

Pinned to the ground by a dragon, Skylight instinctively pressed hard against the ground with her wings sending the dragon flying backward. “What was that for?” The words came out as a roar, irritation flooding into Skylight’s features.

Alarmed by the sound, the dragon shrunk down to four legs, curling away from Skylight. “I didn’t mean to hurt you princess. I, I.” Springing up onto two legs, she dashed away, into the garden, echos of sobbing chasing her.

“Oh Skylight, you’re so cruel sometimes,” Cadence said before bounding into the garden after the tearful dragon, leaving the others wordless, still as statues.

Skylight moved first, lowering her head and releasing a heavy breath from her lungs. “I am aren’t I?”

Moving alongside her, Cloud said nothing but draped one of his wings over her back. His jaw moved but nothing came out, mind torn between telling her the truth and comforting her.

“All I can say is that wasn’t called for,” Shining said eventually, breaking the tense silence between the pegasus pair and lifting their eyes toward him. “I know you dislike dragons, but you can’t just yell at them like that, especially if they’re that young.”

He noticed Skylight inhale, her mouth open to defend herself.

“I know, I know,” Shining said before she could utter a word. “She shouldn’t have knocked you over like that, but she’s only a foal, and they get over excited easily. You have to let them know they were wrong gently instead of responding with aggression.”

After a moment of silence, Skylight lowered her eyes to Shining’s hooves. “You’re right, I wasn’t thinking, and that’s how I react when I’m confused or scared, with anger.” A smile broke through her somber expression, a chuckle following it. “When did you get so good at talking out problems anyway?”

The smile on Skylight’s lips spread to Shining’s as memories of Cadence’s insecurities over the recent years filled his mind. “Let’s just say I had a lot of practice.” His eyes snapped open as he recalled where he had seen her last. “Can we talk about this later? We still don’t know where Cadence and that dragon ran off to.”

Cloud quickly stepped away from Skylight, lowering his body to the ground and gesturing with his head, “Get on, it’ll be easier if we fly.”

They found the two nestled up against each other in the far corner of the garden, so intent on the conversation with each other they didn’t look up till Skylight touched a hoof against the dragon’s shoulder.

“I’m, I’m, sorry,” Skylight managed to say as the dragon shrunk away from her, into Cadence’s open forelegs. “I shouldn’t have yelled at you before, or thrown you to the ground.”

Looking to Cadence for assurance, the dragon found a nod. Tentatively she rose, eyeing Skylight for a moment before a wide grin spread across her muzzle. “Will you teach me magic then?” She cried as she dashed for Skylight, forelegs extended to grasp the pegasus.

Ready this time, Skylight dodged sideways, allowing the dragon to collide with the thorns behind her. Wincing, she stepped toward the bundle of blue scales, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to hurt you again.”

The dragon rolled out of the bush grinning, forelegs extended once more, “Don’t worry princess, thorns don’t hurt. Can you teach me magic now?”

“Flo, I already told you she isn’t a princess,” Cadence voice cut across the small space, pulling the dragon’s attention toward her.

“But,” Flo glanced between the two mare’s. “You two look pretty much the same, how can she not be a princess if you are?”

Skylight gazed at Cadence, confusion lining her brow, “Flo?”

Upon hearing her name, Flo spun back to face Skylight, the grin on her muzzle somehow wider. “That’s my name. It’s the best name ever don’t you think?”

A sigh burst from Cadence’s lips, “Now that Skylight’s apologized to you, can you please answer my questions Flo?”

Turning back to Cadence, Flo frowned, “But you still haven’t shown me where this other princess is. Where are you hiding her?”

Cadence rolled her eyes, “I told you, Celestia is a long way away from here, we’re not hiding her from you.”

“You’re lying. If she’s so far away how can she-”

A clamp of blue magic closed over Flo’s muzzle, silencing her. “Will you please just answer one question Flo?”

After struggling at Cadence’s magic with her claws for a few moments, Flo gave up and nodded. Once Cadence had release her she spoke, rubbing at her snout with a hoof. “But you better tell me where the princess is afterward.”

Resisting the urge to sigh again, Cadence rolled her eyes up into her head, thinking back to what she had meant to ask the young dragon. “Oh, that’s right. Why are all the dragons scared of Ember?”

“That’s easy. He’s the meanest dragon in the city.”

“Yes, but why is he the meanest dragon in the city? Does he kill other dragons?”

“Not usually, only if you make him really angry. He just forces everyone to give him gems every now and then. If you don’t he’ll melt down your house, or beat you up real bad.”

“And the king just allows this to happen?”

“Yeah. Some dragons say he’s scared of Ember, but one of the innkeepers said that’s not right. He said the king gets half of the gems. And the other day I heard some crazy dragon yelling something about the king not being the king but his oldest son replaced him.” Flo shrugged. “But I think they’re all crazy.”

I need to ask Obsidian about some of these later, Cadence thought, storing the interesting theories in her mind. “”Well, thank you for that Flo. Maybe we’ll see you some other time.”

As Cadence signalled to the others with the flick of a hoof, Flo dashed up to her and grasped the raised limb tightly. “You can’t go. I need you to protect me from Ember. Without your magic I’ll be next on his list.”

Cadence looked to Shining for an answer but only got a shrug, the pegasi pair responding to her pleading stare with the same gesture. Eventually she turned back to Flo, “I don’t know. Wouldn’t your parents wonder where you are, and I don’t think we’re allowed to have any guests.”

“Just one night? Please? My parents won’t care they’re, working,” The corner of Flo’s eye twitched. “Always working.”

Feeling a pang of sympathy for her, Cadence nodded. “Alright, but only one night okay?”

Slipping Flo past the king was easier than Cadence had imagined. Obsidian and the sandy-colored dragon were still hunched over the table when they entered, neither even bothering to look up when Cadence greeted them.

Flo’s jaw dropped when Cadence pressed her hoof into the back wall of the room, revealing the hallway behind.

“Wow, I ne-” Was all she managed before Cadence’s foreleg closed over her lips.

“Shhh, you’re not supposed to be here remember?” Cadence whispered, glancing back at the dragon king, thankful his eyes were still pinned to the paper before him. Only once the door behind them had slid shut did she remove her leg and receive an excited grin from Flo.

“I can’t believe I’m sneaking into the castle. Ember will never find me in here.”

“Doesn’t Ember live here?” Shining questioned as the five ascended the stairs. “He is a prince after all.”

“No.” Flo shook her head, the joy on her face replaced with a pout. “The king and him don’t like each other very much. So Ember lives somewhere far away. Some people say in a volcano, but that’s silly. There aren’t any volcanoes round here.”

Cadence chuckled at Flo’s expression as she opened the door to their room, pillows still spilled across the polished stone floor at one end.

Bursting past Cadence, Flo bounded into the room eyes flicking round as she examined every inch of it before turning back to the ponies. “This is so empty. What do you even do all day?”

“Well, we only got here this morning,” Cadence responded. “And I don’t plan on spending much time in this room, I’d rather be out exploring the city.”

“You’re in luck then. I know every inch of this city as well as my tail.” Curling the sapphire blue length around into her claws, Flo clutched it tightly. “And I know my tail pretty well.”

“Does that mean you’ll show us around the city?”

“Hmm,” Flo stroked her muzzle with a claw, eyes unfocused as if she were in deep thought. “Only if you promise to protect me from Ember.” Once again she held out her foreleg, smallest claw extended the others curled tight.

Cadence grasped at it with magic and shook softly. “I’ll try as best I can, but I don’t know if I have the power to fight him off without Celestia’s help again.”

“I believe in you princess.”

Warmth blossomed throughout Cadence’s chest, her pink cheeks lighting with a touch of red. Looking away from Flo, she spied the wooden box Cloud kept his cards inside. “Why don’t we play a game of cards?”

Flo’s head darted back and forth as each pair made rapid plays, the draconic army of Shining in a heated battle with Skylight’s Everfree creatures while Cadence and Cloud could do little more than watch.

The young dragon spoke for the creatures as they struck one another, roaring for the dragons and grunting for each of Skylight’s vine creatures. Closing her eyes Cadence allowed the foalish reproductions fill her ears, trying to imagine the battle as Shining struck through Skylight’s defences, his winged beasts out matching her land bound ones.

Instead she found her troubles leaking in, Ember’s teeth around her neck, Flo’s ramblings when she asked her about dragon’s fear for her. What did Flo mean when she said some dragons think the king isn’t really the king? Does Obsidian have another son?

“Cadence?” Shining’s voice bought her back to the present. “It’s your turn.”

Opening her eyes, Cadence gazed over the game, a board she had barely changed over the last half-dozen turns. Shining’s Young Dragon had grown a few more stages from the greed he had fed it, Skylight’s Vine Beast had seen similar growth, the scattering of creatures around each colossal beast almost meaningless.

Pulling a card from the top of the pile, Cadence found herself staring at an unfamiliar image. Raging Sandstorm, she mouthed silently as Flo sidled up against her, trying to peek at the card.

“Boring,” The young dragon commented, dissatisfied with the desert depicted on the card, a wall of sand rolling across it.

Looking further down, Cadence read the text that accompanied it. Summon a sandstorm till your next turn. Creatures without flying can't attack or defend during this duration, nor can they be the target of any spells. A smile slowly crept across her lips as she read and reread it, eyes flicking up to the cards that occupied the table every so often.

“Cadence, have you finished your turn?” Skylight questioned, expecting the alicorn to nod after so many turns of playing little or nothing.

“No.” Counting up the elements she had from her quest, Cadence felt a strange warmth filling her chest, unlike the heat of a blush. I think we’re going to win. Tentatively she placed the card on the polished stone before her and spun it round so the others could view it.

A smile grew over Cloud’s face while Shining took a moment longer to come to the same conclusion.

“I think we win,” Shining announced, Cloud nodding in agreement.

“How?” Pulling her eyes away from her own hand, Skylight examined the card for the first time before frowning. “Shining gets a free turn to attack with that doesn’t he?” Huffing, she allowed the cards she held to fall. “You win then.”

“Another game?” Shining said, eager to carry the previous game’s momentum forward.

Glancing outside, Cloud shook his head at darkness beyond the murky glass. “I think five is enough for one night. Why don’t we get ready for bed?”

Skylight nodded as a yawn broke her lips, “I need sleep.” Slowly she rose and moved toward her pack before unrolling the tent within.

“That reminds me,” Cadence thought aloud. “I still haven’t figured out where you’re going to sleep Flo.” Hearing no response, she glanced around and found no sign of the dragon. “Where is she?”

“Outside,” Cloud looked up from packing away the cards for a moment to point to where a gap had opened into the wall of windows, leading out onto a balcony.

Looking for Shining. Cadence found him aiding Cloud in sorting the cards. There’s no need to bother him with this, She thought, stepping toward the open door.

The night air met her with a pinch as she moved outside. The sky, usually filled to the brim with dragons, was much more at peace, only the hint of color here and there. The balcony was made of a grey granite, a nice break from the oppressing black that made up most of the palace.

Flo turned when she heard Cadence’s hoofsteps behind her, a grin on her muzzle. “Princess! Did you come out here to protect me?”

A chuckle rumbled from Cadence as she sat beside the dragon, “No, I actually was thinking about where you’re going to sleep tonight. Do you want me to set you up a bed inside?”

A quick shake of the head answered Cadence, Flo turning to gaze up at the stars as she did so. “I wanna sleep outside. I haven’t slept indoors since…” Her eyes lowered, smile shrinking.

Draping a foreleg over Flo, Cadence cuddled up close to her. “You don’t have to tell me why if you don’t want to.”

The corners of Flo’s lips lifted a little, her eyes meeting Cadence’s. “Thanks. I just feel safer with the moon and stars above me.”

“Do you want me to bring some pillows out then?”

“No.” Flo gently pulled away from Cadence’s hug, stretching her body out on the balcony. “This stone feels nice.” A yawn pushed its way between her lips, eyelids lowering against her will. “I’ll sleep here.”

Smiling, Cadence watched as sapphires fell across Flo’s eyes, neck and tail curling into her chest until she formed at full circle. “Good night Flo.” She stroked the dragon’s neck softly before rising, meaning to head back inside.

The murmur of wings coming from above stopped her however, drawing her eyes to the sky where she found a great black shape descending. “Obsidian?” She called as he landed between her and the door, the expansive balcony allowing for plenty of room.

“It is I princess.” Folding his wings shut, he stepped toward her, eyes focused on the bundle of blue behind her. “I see you have a stowaway.”

Feeling warmth brush against her cheeks, Cadence glance backward, her teeth gritted. “Well, she just happened across us. She’s scared of Ember and thought I would protect her, I couldn’t refuse.”

“I see you have a heart for the little ones, unlike my son, Ember.” Pain creased Obsidian’s face as the name left his lips, a heavy burden hidden behind his eyes. “But that is my problem. You said you wanted to speak of some matters?”

“Well, I actually wanted to talk about your son. The small amount Flo here has told me is interesting, and confusing.”

“Ah.” Obsidian swallowed hard. “That is a, difficult subject, but I will answer as best I can. What is it you wish to know?”

Where do I start, Cadence thought, her mind swimming with a dozen different questions. Eventually she decided on one. “What happened to your wife?”

Obsidian’s lips parted as if to answer the question, before he realised what she had asked. “I thought you wanted to know about my son?”

Realising the sensitivity of the matter, Cadence bit at her lip, holding back her stream of thoughts. I need to take this slowly. Breathing deeply, she allowed herself to speak. “Well, yes, but somehow I feel like your wife is somehow related to his, problem. Where is she? I never-” Biting at her lips again, Cadence stopped herself, realising she was piling on questions. “Sorry, I just really want to know.”

A heavy breath left Obsidian’s lips, his head sinking. “I understand your curiosity about these things, I’m sure many of my subjects hold the same questions.” Lifting his eyes, he gazed out at the starlit sky. “I think I will tell you the whole tale, it will help you see why my son is in such a state, and why it is my fault.”

Sitting, Cadence stared up at the great dragon, watching the emotions that filled his eyes flit around, grief, disappointment, a touch of anger.

“It all started with my first son, Ash. He was born many years before Ember to some common dragon I thought I loved. Everything about his life was a nightmare, from his birth, where he killed his mother, to his death, in which he killed Ember’s mother.”

Images of ghosts long past away flashed through Obsidian’s eyes as he sat, the weight of the story too much for him to bear standing. “I could see Ash was a monster when he was still a hatchling. He bit and blew smoke at the nurses who cared for him. He was just like any young dragon, I told myself, he will grow out of it, but in my denial I knew the truth. I was a fool to let him live as long as he did.”

“But no one’s truly a monster,” Cadence cut in, hoping to brighten up Obsidian’s grim story. “He must have had some good in him, right?”

The dragon king tore his eyes away from the stars and looked down at her, a sad smile on his lips. “Maybe there was, but I never saw it, nor could any of his nurses coax it out of him. Before he was even a decade old he had killed one of them, tore out the old dragoness’s throat and would have done more if the guards had not have stopped him. That was when I was forced to lock him away.”

“For a decade I locked him away in the palace’s dungeons, visiting him when I could during the first year, and it seemed like his anger was lessening. During the first visits he would spit and rage at me, calling me every terrible name you can imagine, and I just sat and listened. Slowly, with each visit he seemed to grow calmer however, and by the end of that year I would hold him as he cried, apologizing for everything he had done, but-”

“Wait!” Cadence exclaimed, cutting Obsidian off again. “That right there, you said he apologized, and he was no longer angry. Isn’t that the good you were looking for in him?”

Sighing, he shook his head. “If only it were, but you did not let me finish. As I said before, he apologized, but it was all a facade, a trick so he could gain my trust and be free. Early into the second year of his confinement I was contemplating releasing him, but my advisor warned me to wait a while longer. A marriage had been arranged between the princess of Ember and I, an act that would make me king.”

Noticing the confusion on Cadence’s features , Obsidian nodded. “That is right, I have not always been king, and I do not know how much longer my reign will last with my son terrorizing my citizens, but that discussion is for another time.” Pausing for a moment, he stared out into the night sky as he recollected his tale.

“As I was saying, the dragon kingdom was divided after the war with your princess, Ember and Rockholm the two cities that led either side of the conflict. They wished to continue the fight, while I had already made peace. The only ways to solve the problem seemed to be marriage or war. I chose the former. A many years into our marriage she bore a son, and we named him Ember, to celebrate the alliance of our cities.”

Cadence tilted her head to the side, “What was Ash doing during this?” Please don’t tell me you left him all alone.

“My time was constrained during this process, so I did not see Ash till three months after the marriage. He had given up on deceiving me with tears by then and was filling his cell with flames, so I left him down there. Eight years passed and the only times I saw him was on his birthday, though to say I conversed with him on those days would be a lie. I always sat and stared at the fountain of rage contained in that room, trying to convince myself he was not of my flesh.”

Gritting her teeth tightly, Cadence resisted the urge to explode at Obsidian. He just wanted your attention, She screamed in her head. How could you not see that? Instead of voicing her opinion she sat at nodded along as the dragon king continued his story.

“On the tenth year of his imprisonment, I had prepared a present for Ash. A heavy gold bracer embedded with rubies, something I thought would bring cheer to his dull imprisonment. My wife noticing this, questioned of it. The terrible liar I am I admitted that my first son, the myth that had grown throughout my kingdom during his imprisonment, was a reality. When she asked to see him I tried to refuse, but she insisted. It was a foolish decision I knew, but I still had no idea what would happen.”

“I journeyed to the depths of the palace like I always did on that day, this time with my wife and Ember trailing. Ember was still a hatchling, barely able to fly, yet I do not believe he will ever forget what occurred. The two guards who were usually stationed at the bottom of the steps were missing, something I should have been alarmed at but other worries occupied my minds instead.”

“He killed her didn’t he?” Cadence said, not wanting to hear every gruesome detail.

Obsidian nodded, “Fortunately I was able to save one son by slaying the other, or perhaps that was misfortune, I do not know.”

Hanging her head, Cadence bit back her instinct to cry. How could such a horrible thing happen? All he needed was to show a little love, spend some time with his son, and he’s so blind he’s about to let it happen again. Pushing her want to just curl up in Shining’s grasp and allow her tears to flow, Cadence lifted her eyes to meet the king’s. “I want to meet Ember again, there are some things I need to ask. Could you tell me where he is?”

Horror struck Obsidian’s features, “Are you mad? He tried to kill you and you wish to talk with him? I don’t think-”

“I know you think I won’t be safe, but if Celestia protected me once, I’m sure she will again.”

Obsidian’s lips flailed, wordless, unable to comprehend the apparent stupidity of the pony sitting beside him. Eventually he sighed. “I do not approve of this, nor can I aid in your search for my son. I have no clue as to where he resides, but there are tales, whisperings throughout the city. You may find you answer there.”

Standing, he shifted his wings before extending them completely. “I do not know if this talk was of much use, it seems to have sparked ideas in your head no sane one would dream of.” With that said he leapt into the air and caught the wind with his wings, black scales melting away into the night sky.

Flo’s voice came from beside her, “He didn’t sound very nice.”

Looking to her side, Cadence noticed the dragon had sat up, eyes opening and watching the sky. “Mmhmm,” She nodded. “After to listening to how he treated his son before Ember, it’s no wonder Ember had gone mad. The worst thing is, he doesn’t see what’s wrong, even though it’s so obvious.”

“What are you going to do to Ember tomorrow?” Flo looked up to Cadence with wide eyes. “Are you going to beat him up real bad?”

“No, not that, never that. I want to give him something he’s been deprived of since his mother died, the thing that Ash wanted from his father so dearly and almost got. Love.”

Flo made a face, “Ew. You’re going to kiss him and everything. That’s so gross.”

A chuckle shook Cadence, bringing light to her somber mood. “Not that kind of love. I mean just showing him that someone cares for him, that someone wants to spend time with him.”

“So if you do nice things for him, he’ll stop being so mean?”

“Yes,” A yawn broke Cadence’s lips. “Now why don’t you fall asleep properly this time, it’s getting late.” She ran her hoof down Flo’s neck one last time before standing and stepping toward the door.

Shining waited for her just inside, looking just like she had felt a few moments earlier. “Did your conversation with the king not go too well?”

“Well, no,” Cadence felt annoyance flaring up in her once again. “He’s just so-” Biting her lip, she stopped herself, allowing her frustration out as a breath. “Don’t worry about it for now, everything will be much easier to explain after a good night’s sleep.”

Their ethereal tent was set up in the centre of the room, Cloud and Skylight’s makeshift double pushed up against one wall. The weight of the day overcame Cadence as she sunk into the soft magic, her only want that of sleep.

She felt Shining cuddle up behind her, his lips touching against her ear. “I love you Cadence.”

“Love you too Shining,” She managed to mumble before the world around her cut to black.

Celebrating Disaster

“Princess.”

Cadence felt something soft and scaled touch against her shoulder, shaking her out of a comforting slumber. Cracking open her eyes, she found the blue face of Flo before her, barely discernable in the darkness.

“Wake up princess.” Flo shook her again, a frown on her lips.

“Yes?” Pulling away from Shining’s sleepy grasp, Cadence sat up, rubbing at her eye with a hoof. “What is it Flo?” Looking to the windows behind the dragon, she realised it was still dim outside. “Is it still night?”

“Sort of, the sun’s just about to rise. Do you want to come watch it with me?” Taking hold of Cadence’s foreleg, Flo tugged her across the ethereal mattress toward the open balcony door.

Thoughts still hazy with sleep, Cadence followed without resistance, the crisp night air shocking her body as she stepped outside. “It sure is cold out here.” A shiver ran down her spine as she spoke, shaking her words.

“I know, but the sun will fix that.” With a claw Flo pointed to the horizon where a hint of orange peeked over the distant mountains. “I watch it come up every morning. It makes me feel happy.” The young dragon’s eyes were wide as she stared at the glimmer of hope on the horizon, the coming of a new day.

Standing beside Flo, Cadence stared out at the sliver of light as well, the fog of sleep clearing from her mind. When was the last time I did this? She thought as the sun slowly revealed itself. Celestia would always wake me when she raised the sun, it’s so beautiful to watch.

“Princess,” Flo said, breaking Cadence from her memories. “Are you going to the festival today?”

“Well,” Cadence glance back inside at the Shining, still sleeping. “I don’t know what the others want to do, but I want to go. It sounds like a lot of fun and it’ll be a great way to get to know the city better. Have you ever been before.”

Flo nodded frantically, “I got every year. It’s so much fun. There’s nice food and crazy shows. It’s one of my favourite times.”

“Can you two be quiet, ponies are sleeping.”

Turning toward the voice, Cadence found Skylight standing in the doorway behind them, a smile on her lips. She felt Flo leaning against her, muzzle touching her ear. “Miss meanie isn’t coming is she?”

“I don’t know, you’ll have to ask her,” Cadence replied softly before lifting her voice. “Why don’t you come watch the sun with us Skylight?”

Flo eyed Skylight carefully as she stepped toward them, making sure to keep Cadence between her and the pegasus.

“Still afraid of me?” Skylight said as she sat on the opposite side of Cadence, extending her wing to pat the dragon’s head.

Shrinking away from the touch, Flo shook her head, “No. I just don’t want your meanness near me.”

“Flo, that’s not a nice thing to say.” Cadence frowned at the dragon.

A smile touched Skylight’s lips, “Yes. That was mean.”

Flo’s jaw opened and closed like a drowning fish as she stared back at Skylight, unable to think of anything to say.

Ignoring Flo’s distress, Skylight turned to Cadence. “What’s happening today?”

“I was thinking of going to the festival. Obsidian advised-” Cadence stopped, feeling her words freeze in her throat as the memories of her conversation with the king returned to her. “I think it will be, fun. Flo said it’s one of the best days of the year. Will you and Cloud come?”

Skylight looked back to the dragon, teasing on her lips and in her voice, “If Flo says so, we’ve got to go.” Glancing up at the sky, she scowled at the dragons already dotting the morning sun. “There’s too many dragons in the air to fly anyway.”

“Should we wake Shining and Cloud then?”

Smirking, Skylight shook her head. “Good luck waking Shining at this time.”

As Skylight had predicted, Shining proved impossible to rouse, ignoring jets of water and the scent of chocolate. Eventually Cadence joined the other three on the balcony, Flo cautiously nibbling at the apple pie Skylight had given her.

“I give up,” She said as she sat next to the dragon, shoulders slumped. “We’ll just have to wait a little longer before we leave for the festival.”

From their balcony they could see the swarm of dragons ascending and descending above the city centre. The canvas tops of tents peeked over buildings, red and orange, blue and yellow. Smoke rose into the sky as well, familiar and unknown scents drifting into their snouts every so often.

“I can wake him up for you,” Flo said, drawing all eyes to her.

Cadence eyed the dragon with suspicion, “As long as you don’t hurt him.”

A grin lit up Flo’s features, the pie remaining in her claws disappearing in one bite, “I won’t leave a scratch.” She charged toward the curled up figure of Shining, leaping into the air a few steps before she reached him. “Wake up!”

The blue ball of scales collided with the stallion, knocking the breath from his lungs and snapping his eyes open. “Cadence?” Swinging his eyes round, Shining found a blue face instead of pink, scales instead of fur. “Flo? Where’s Cadence?”

A collection of laughter drew his eyes to the balcony where the three ponies sat. “I’m out here Shining,” Cadence said with a wave. “Sorry about that, but I had to resort to, extreme measures to wake you.”

Shining sighed, rubbing the sore area on his side, “Next time just let me sleep. What did you wake me for anyway?” Standing, he stretched his limbs, mouth overcome with a yawn.

‘The festival remember?” Cadence pointed out to the tent peaks and twists of smoke in the distance. “The king told us about it yesterday.”

At the mention of festival Shining straightened up, his legs quickly dashing towards the door. “That means lots of food right?” One inhale answered his question, the mixture of smells filling his mind with all sorts of fantasies. An unfamiliar scent followed, causing Shining to screw up his snout and turn away. “What is that horrible smell?”

Tasting the scent with her own snout, Cadence found it repulsive as well. It’s burnt, and dead. “Flo?” The dragon turned to face her. “Do you know what that smell is?”

Stepping to Cadence’s side, Flo took a deep breath, the grin on her lips widening as she did so. “Which one? They all smell so yummy. I just want to eat all of them.”

Cadence took another sniff, cementing the smell in her mind. “The burnt one, it almost smells like-”

“Meat,” Flo finished, her grin widening, saliva spilling from her lips. “It smells like cow.” She inhaled deeply once more, lifting her snout to catch the flavour. “I’ve never had it before, but it’s always looked so yummy.” Turning to Cadence, she held the princess with wide eyes. “Can you buy me some? Please?”

Grimacing, Cadence tried to ignore the sickening feeling in her stomach. “You eat cows?”

Flo nodded rapidly, unaware of the four ponies’ disgust. “And pigs, and rabbits, and all sorts of birds. One time I even had a frog, it tasted like chicken. What’s your favourite meat?”

“Flo,” Cadence said, stepping toward the dragon, placing a foreleg on her shoulder. “Ponies don’t eat meat. Even the thought of it makes me feel sick, so can you please stop talking about it.”

Realisation struck Flo’s features alongside shock. “Oh. Sorry. I didn’t know.” Looking from pony to pony, she found sickly expressions on all of their faces. “There’s other food as well. All sorts of tasty looking food I’ve seen but never got to taste.”

“Why don’t you help us keep away from the meat when you lead us around then?” Cadence said, forcing a smile to her lips. “If you do I’ll buy you whatever you want.”

Flo’s eyes lit up, “Anything?”

“Any kind of food you want, that isn’t meat of course.”

“Okay. Let’s go now.”

Cadence glanced at the others. “Is everyone ready?” They all nodded, Cloud’s jaw full of a pastry. The sight of it reminded her of Shining. “Do you want something to eat before you leave Shining?”

A smile found his lips as he shook his head. “If there’s as much food down there as Flo says, I want to be able to eat as much as I can.”

They found the throne room empty for all but a single guard half-asleep at the far end of the room, most of his heavy plate resting on the floor beside him. The sight of Cadence and her party snapped him awake, fumbling to dress himself correctly as they chuckled.

“Don’t worry, I won’t tell,” She said, causing a sigh of relief to escape the guard’s lips.

The grey crystal doors opened up to an entrance hall just as empty, only a pair of guards to nod at them as they stepped out into the gardens.

“Where’s the king?” Cadence asked, looking to Flo.

“Listen.” Flo lifted her ear upward, motioning for quiet with a talon over her lips.

In the distance they heard a voice, familiar. “Let the festival begin,” It pronounced, followed by a dull roar from countless different voices.

“It’s already started?” Glancing around, Cadence realised the numerous dragons who were tending the garden the previous day were missing.

Flo nodded, dashing a few steps ahead of them before looking back. “Are you four going to stand there or what?”

After they exited the gardens, street after street were swam by, each one seeming just as unfamiliar as the last. The scents and sounds that filled the air grew in magnitude as did the amount of dragons they saw.

The first unfamiliar face they met, a small purple scaled hatchling, quickly shot down a side street at the sight of them, her eyes watching the ponies as they passed. Next they found a pair of dragons, scarlet and a fiery orange. The two simply stared, whispering between each other as Flo lead the four at an erratic pace.

Many dozen streets passed by before they saw any signs of the festival, a swarming mass of dragons all heading for the same point. When they saw Cadence they parted, watching with awe as the five of them passed through, murmurings of princess and Ember passing through the crowd.

One dragon, sapphire blue scales with a row of ruby red spikes running down her back, stepped out before them, one claw outstretched toward Cadence. “I love you princess,” She uttered, the three words unleashing a horde.

All at once they rushed up to the group of four, choking their movement in the centre of the street. Some cried for her protection, others just to touch her mane, all had the same word on their lips, princess.

Feeling the tightness of the crowd around her, Cadence resisted the urge to push them all back magically, instead she twisted her neck around to face Skylight. “Can you give us a little room?”

Skylight extended a wing, meaning to shove back the mass of scales pushing her against Cloud, but at Cadence’s word the dragons retreated, giving her space to pass once more.

Glancing around, Cadence realised someone was missing, “Where’s Flo?” She called, both to the ponies behind her and the crowd at her sides.

“Over here,” The cry came out from one side of the crowd, the dragons parting to reveal a wide grin on a sapphire muzzle. She dashed toward Cadence, cuddling close against her side, “I thought I’d lost you.”

Feeling a wetness against on her fur, Cadence reached out a hoof to stroke Flo’s neck. “Don’t cry, you’re back with us. Now lead the way.”

Flo lifted her eyes, wiping the streams that ran over her smiling lips, “I wasn’t crying.” Without waiting for a response, she turned and continued to step through the crowd, dragons parting before her and closing behind the pegasus pair.

The gap they had to squeeze between shrunk as festival’s sounds and smells increased in strength, Cadence feeling the brushing of scales against her wing. The whisperings of each dragon so close she could almost feel them against her ear.

Tighter and tighter it grew, the dragons on either side growing so close Cadence was about to call for single file, before it opened up again.

Like a great amphitheatre the city centre took circular steps downward till it plateaued. A lifeless fountain, dripping slowly, the centerpiece. Stalls and stages occupied each step, dragons of every color filling whatever gaps were left.

“Over here.” Grasping Cadence’s foreleg, Flo dragged her along one of the rings, the crowd parting before them and the other three following closely behind. She stopped at a stall that smelt of oil and fire, the batter coated results on display. “Can you please buy me some battered bread?”

Cadence looked between the variety of food on display, from a length of batter heavy with the brown of chocolate, to what appeared to be the leg of some small animal wrapped in the same crispy gold. “Are you sure you don’t want something, more interesting?”

“I don’t know.” Flo looked up and down the display. “All these other things I’ve never tasted before, but I love bread. I’ve always wanted some battered bread.” The dragon stared up at Cadence with begging eyes, melting the alicorn’s heart.

“Well, okay.” Stepping up to the stall, Cadence found the owner’s eyes attached to her, his loose hanging jaw revealing charred and chipped teeth within.

“It is an honour that you visit my humble stall princess. Please, take whatever you wish.” He dipped his head slightly, spreading his claws out over his goods.

“I couldn’t, it would feel wrong to take something without paying.”

“What you did yesterday, and what I know you will do for our city is more than enough to pay for all I own a dozen dozen times.”

“Well, as much as that might be true, I can’t just leave you with nothing.” Feeling at her sides with her magic, Cadence realised she had left her bags back at the palace, Celestia’s sack of coins inside. “Just give me a moment,” She said to the dragon before turning around, Hopefully Skylight or Cloud can fetch it for me.

She collided with a ringing object as she completed the turn, a bundle of cloth wrapped in blue. “Looking for this?” Shining said, a smile on his lips. “I knew we’d need it.”

“Thanks you so much Shining.” Lighting her own horn, Cadence grasped at the bag with her magic, expecting Shining to release. When he failed to she frowned at him, “What do you want?”

“Can you buy me one of those battered chocolate things?” He inhaled deeply, a drip of saliva spilling from the side of his mouth. “They smell so good.”

“I guess I can let you have a little more than usual, but just for today.” She tried to pull the sack away from him once again, but found it still trapped in his magic.

“You said it was only until we got to the dragon lands.”

“Well, I did, but eating less is much better for you, don’t you want to keep going?” Glancing backward, Cadence realised Flo and the stall owner were still waiting for her, their eyes staring. “Anyway, can we talk about this later.”

Shining released his grasp, allowing the bag to fall for a moment, before Cadence snatched it out of the air. Digging inside, she produced a golden coin as she turned. “Do you take pony coins?”

The stall owners eyes widened at the sight of it. “We do princess,” He breathed. “But all the coins I have for change can not even compare to the value of this one. It is one of royal families own. A dragon like me could feed his family for a lifetime with this.”

“Then take it.” She placed it on the wood before him. “You’ll get more out of it than I ever will.”

“But how will I ever repay you for it’s worth? Two sacks of silver is all I have.”

“Just give us some battered bread and chocolate.” Cadence felt Flo nudging against her with her snout.

“Take one of the sacks,” Flo whispered into her ear. “Then I can buy all the other things I want.”

Cadence nodded. If I give one of these coins to every stall owner we’ll be out before Shining’s full. “And one of the sacks. That will be plenty.”

Gasping, the stall owner reached over the stall with his forelegs, pulling her into a tight hug. “Thank you princess, you do not know how many dragons you have blessed with this coin.” He handed them their food, twice the amount Cadence had asked for, Cadence giving Shining the sack of silver to hold.

From stall to stall they moved, spiralling down the great steps. Toys and sweets, games and rides, Flo had everything she wanted in mind as she led them through the staring crowd.

Every so often a dragon would call out to Cadence, thanking her, others bowed. One pair of performers were telling the tale of her victory over Ember with flames and words, a Cadence made of golden flames knocking back a whimpering red prince.

The dragons watching cheered when they saw her, a great circle forming around Cadence. Shouts ranging from “We love you princess,” to “Kill him next him!” rang through the crowd.

Feeling the weight of every stare, Cadence meekly waved to them all, causing an uproar that deafened her.

“Do you wish to show us all how you defeated him?” The call came from one of the dragons on the stage, his scales green with fringes of gold around his ears.

“No,” Cadence replied, but her voice was drowned in the noise of the crowd, the dragons behind her bunching up, forcing her forward. At the stage the green dragon extended his claw out toward her, Cadence took it, glad to be out of the swarming mass of dragons.

Looking back out over the crowd she realised Shining, Cloud and Skylight had been split up from her, their heads barely visible in the muddled mass of colored scales. Flo still stood beside her however, the young dragon somehow managing to slip through the crowd with her.

“Are you ready to show you power?” The gold and green dragon said from beside her, his partner forming a steady ruby red flame in the shape of Ember behind him.

“Well, it wasn’t me who did that magic yesterday.”

“Hah,” The dragon laughed, flipping aside her statement with a claw. “Don’t be so modest princess and show these dragons what you’ve got.” Without waiting for an answer from her, he nodded to the other dragon before stepping backward, allowing the beast of flames to descend upon her.

A gaping mouth of roaring red flames opened before her snout, bringing memories of the previous day back to Cadence, her body stiffening the same way it had done then.

Just move, She thought, willing her horn to light, willing her legs to shift even the slightest, but nothing happened.

Moments before the fiery teeth closed around her neck a burst of blue magic snuffed out the dragon, the breath Cadence held in her chest leaving. Looking out to the now cheering crowd, she noticed Shining shoving his way through, a hint of blue fading from his horn.

When he climbed atop the stage she leapt into his forelegs, nuzzling into him as one hoof stroked her mane. “Thank you,” She whispered.

“Why don’t we keep moving?”

A nod and Shining stepped down from the stage, helping Cadence down after him, Flo tailing at her hooves. “That was so crazy. It was just like yesterday, but blue. Can you do other colors? Like green, or maybe purple.”

The chatter blurred into a noisy hum in Cadence’s mind, her thoughts focused on the feeling of Shining supporting her and the image of Ember’s teeth closing over her head. Why did that happen again? What is wrong with me? I hope this doesn’t happen when I talk to him next. She shivered at the thought, imagining Ember standing over her once again, this time Celestia failing to interfere.

“Oh, can we go there next?” Flo pointed toward a stall on the step below, brightly colored balloons floated above it, their appearance a stark difference from the dull colors that filled the rest of the festival. “I’ve always wanted a balloon.”

Nodding, Cadence slowly followed the energetic Flo, still leaning against Shining for support. They had to walk between many crowds of dragons to descend to the lower level, Cadence somewhat thankful for the dragons’ apparent awe of her as they parted.

The dragon standing at the balloon stall was stunted, his eyes barely reaching over the stall. The dull golden scales that covered his body were dried and cracked, looking as if they would fall off at any moment.

“What do you want?” He growled as they neared, lips curled to show the chipped and stained teeth behind. A few of the balloon strings beside him tugged briefly before pulling away from the rest, drawing the old dragon’s eyes upward.

In the sky above two young dragons, a little smaller than Flo, were flying away with the stolen balloons, leaving only laughter behind.

Inhaling deeply, the old dragon shot a few short balls of flames at the balloons, popping both them and the thieves’ joy. “Damn hatchlings,” He muttered under his breath as he turned back to face them. “You better not be here to steal my balloons as well.”

“No,” Cadence shook her head, pulling a silver coin from the sack Shining held. “I actually wanted to buy one.” She deposited the coin on the wood before the old dragon. “Is that enough.”

“Heh.” Taking the coin in his claw, the old dragon bit at it before nodding. “That’s enough for a dozen, but only a fool turns down a good offer when he sees one.” He grasped at the one of the strings beside him, pulling a bright green balloon from the mass.

Looking at the color, Flo pouted. “Can I have a blue one instead?” The old dragon’s head shook, causing Flo’s shoulders to slump. “But we paid for it. Why can’t I choose?”

“Tough luck hatchling. This is life, you don’t choose what you get.”

Flo looked to Cadence for support, her eyes wide and begging, “Can you get a blue balloon for me?”

A step took Cadence even closer to the old dragon, his face now only a foreleg away from hers. “Can you please just give her what she wants this once? She’s never had a balloon before, and I know this would make her happy.”

The old dragon shook his head slowly, “A blue balloon won’t give her anymore happiness than this green one. Friends are what make a dragon happy,” His eyes glazed over for the briefest moment, as if her were looking back into the past. “Too bad I have none of those anymore, so take your balloon and go.” Shoving the balloon towards Cadence, he released it and turned away.

Grasping the balloon in her magic, Cadence handed it to Flo to hold before looking back to the dragon. “What happened to your friends?”

Stopping mid turn, the old dragon peered back at her with suspicious eyes, “Why are you asking so many questions? Wait a second.” He twisted his body back to her, leaning hard into the bench, his snout less than a hoof’s distance from Cadence’s. “You’re that pony princess everybody yelling about aren’t you?”

“Well, yes, why does that matter?”

He grimaced. “That’s the only reason anyone would even try to be nice around here.” Sighing deeply, the old dragon shook his head. “I’ve got some advice for you princess, just leave. Your help won’t do this city any good. Even if you do defeat Ember somehow, when he’s gone there’ll be another one who takes his place, even worse than him. It’s a worthless cause.”

“I don’t want to defeat Ember however. I want to save him.”

A hint of a smile curled the end of the old dragon’s lips, his eyes lighting up with humour. Pursing his lips tightly, he tried to hold in the laughter, but could not, an old croaky laugh filling Cadence’s ears. “Save him?” He said, wiping wetness from the corner of his eye. “You ponies sure a great comedians.” Without waiting for a response he turned his back to them, still shaking with laughter.

Clutching her balloon tightly, Flo stepped away from the stall, pulling Cadence with her. “That’s one mean old dragon. He laughed right in your face.”

“Well, I’m sure he has his reasons,” Cadence murmured, glancing back at the old dragon surrounded by balloons. Is my idea really that silly? She shook her head slightly. No, he’s just forgotten how much love can change things.

The sun rose to high noon as the day passed Cadence in a blur of stalls and food, performing dragons and spectators, every eye seeming to be on her. They descended the great steps of the city centre slowly, arriving at the flat bottom a short time after midday.

Here the largest of the stages were set up, each of them holding the grandest performances with stalls overflowing with smells, tempting and repulsing, packed in between. Where there had been two flame formers there was now an entire team, telling stories Cadence had never heard, but Cloud seemed somewhat familiar with.

Tales of dragons long ago, a time before the ponies had even existed and dragons ruled Equestria themselves, lording over the other beasts. Brave warriors defeated writhing monsters of vines, rescued their beautiful princesses from locked towers and saved townsfolk along the way. Each story depicted in the flickering and roaring flames of half a hundred colors, not a word spoken but the awe filled whisperings of the crowd.

As Cadence stood and watched the murmuring within the crowd grew and grew until she could hear one word clearly from every dragon’s lips, “Princess.” Groaning to herself, Cadence looked to Shining and found him grinning, foreleg pointing to the sky above.

She followed his direction and found herself staring into the eyes of a great fiery dragon descending towards them. This one not made of a single color like the simple imitation she had seen previously, this one had every color highlighted in detail, from the ruby red of his back to the yellow of his chest, even his eyes were lit with gold.

A familiar feeling crept into Cadence’s limbs, the same feeling she had felt the each time she stared into Ember’s eyes, whether it was one made of flame or the real thing. A numbing that threatened to move further upward.

No, She thought, lighting her horn before she lost control of it this time. I can’t let this keep happening. Breathing deeply, she allowed a calming spell to flow throughout her body, soothing the feeling and pushing it out the bottom of her hooves. Above her she heard the ring of Shining’s magic dispersing the flames, saving her from another encounter.

“Are you alright?” He stood with forelegs curled around Cadence, ready to catch her if her body gave out.

“Mmhmm,” She nodded, nestling her head into Shining’s neck as the crowd around her cheered, the sound so loud it shook every bone in her body. “I just want to go somewhere quiet.”

Holding his princess close to him, Shining turned to Flo, “Is there anywhere we can go that’ll be quiet during the festival?”

Flo looked up for a moment, thinking before she nodded. “Just follow me.” She spun round and led them back through the crowd, toward the fountain that occupied the centre of the lowest step.

The mass of dragons parted before them as usual, all watching and whispering, smiles on their lips. As they moved through the crowd Shining noticed their attention shifting, one by one they looked up to the sky, pointing, their murmuring growing louder and louder.

Eventually Shining felt the cool touch of a shadow pass over him, sending a shiver down his spine and causing him to look to the sky. His jaw dropped at what he saw, Cadence won’t like this.

Above them soared fiery red wings, the underside of the leathery things tinted with yellow. A body of the same red rested between the wings, its belly blackened slightly from the previous day’s encounter.

“Cadence,” Shining heard Skylight say from behind them, a hoof touching against his shoulder. “You should look up.” He felt the head nestled under his neck shift, and a gasp fill her lungs.

Why did he have to pick the worst time? Cadence thought, wanting nothing more than to hide away from crowds and the constant attention and cuddle into Shining. Instead she breathed deeply and lit her horn with the tiniest spark of magic, allowing the calming spell to once again flow through her body.

The crowd before them opened up to a wide circle as the sound of wings on wind grew louder, descending towards them. A shockwave ran underneath their hooves as Ember dove into the cobbles, cracking and splintering them.

He lifted his head, eyes burning bright with anger, lips curled in a growl. “I knew I’d find you here princess, trying to win these dragons over with talk of love.” He gritted his teeth at the last word. “Love is a lie, even my father will tell you that.”

As he stepped forward the crowd swarmed backward, hatchlings crying and dragons shouting, all trying to flee from the monster that terrified them.

Behind her Cadence felt Flo hugging against her rear legs and the pair of pegasi moving to stand beside her, Skylight’s wings spread. “Do you think you can take him down with you magic?” She questioned, forelegs slightly bent as if she were ready to pounce.

“Maybe, but that’s not what I want to do.” Cadence took a step forward, her lungs heaving for breath, legs shaking.as she forced herself to take another step, and another. “I just want to talk with him.” Her voice rose as she spoke, half speaking to the dragon towering over her, half to the ponies behind her.

The words caused Ember to laugh, “You want to talk? What kind of tea party do you think this is princess?” He glanced at the surrounding crowd with a grin on his lips, drinking in the fear that filled their eyes. “I may as well just take your head off now.”

Cadence shook her head, forcing herself another step closer, able to feel the heat of Ember’s breath on her snout. “No. Please no.” She heard the shakiness of fear in her voice, the numbing feeling forming in her hooves.

No, She thought, closing her horns and swelling her horn with calming magic, pushing back the fear. When she opened her eyes again Cadence noticed Ember had taken a step back from her, the fear on the faces of the dragons behind him replaced with smiles. Some of the braver took up as shout.

“Kill him!”

“Crush Ember!”

“Destroy him!”

The voices started as a trickle, but soon the dam burst and the crowd flowed with the shouts of several hundred.

Looking back up to Ember, Cadence noticed uncertainty was leaking into his eyes, his head swinging round, looking for someone to pick out in the swarming crowd but finding none. He looked to her horn every so often also, pupils reflecting the blue of her magic.

Closing her eyes, Cadence pulled her spark away from the calming spell and instead directed it towards her lips. “Quiet!” Her voice boomed over the suffocating shouting of the crowd, silencing most. Only a few stragglers giving a yell or two more before quieting.

Before her, Ember’s features were still filled with terror, his eyes locked on her now, or rather her blazing blue horn. Quickly she silenced her it, stepping forward once more, her voice seeming like a whisper compared to her previous words. “I just want to talk about what happened with you brother all those years ago, and your mother. She loved you-”

“No!” Ember cried, backing away from Cadence as if she were holding a sword to his chest, eyes filled with flashes of memories. “Don’t talk about that. She was a fool, stupid to trust. No.” Ruby red wings of leather snapped out at his sides before he leapt into the air, the wind carrying him up into the sea of dragons above.

Behind her Cadence felt Shining rushing forward, followed by the two pegasi.

“Are you okay?” He asked, one foreleg reaching out to cradle the underside of her neck. “He didn’t touch you did he?”

“No, that’s not important now.” Shaking away Shining’s embrace, Cadence turned to Skylight and Cloud. “Can you two follow him, I want to find out where he hides.”

A nod and the two were in the air, beating wings carrying them after the fleeing prince.

Turning back around, Cadence expected to find Flo and Shining but instead her eyes met Obsidian’s, the king somehow managing to sneak up on her during the chaos.

“I must apologize for my son once again princess,” He said, dipping his head. “And I thank you for scaring him away, without you the festival would be ruined, but what you did was still foolish. You could have died. You do not need to be the hero for this city.”

Around them murmuring was building in the crowd, each word growing louder and louder until Cadence could make out the one she dreaded most, “Princess.”

“I just want to-” Cadence stopped herself, realising the king wouldn’t listen to her plans, or even worse, he would scold her for them. “Well, I’m glad I could help, I guess.” Glancing around, she felt the eyes of every dragon on her. “But I’m all tired out, I was just about to leave.”

Swinging away from Obsidian, she made to step past him, only to find a great black wing blocking her way. “But surely you mean to stay for the parade? All the dragons here want to celebrate you.”

By now the murmurings had become chants, the word she had grown to dislike filling her ears, shaking her body. “I,” Looking past the wing, Cadence found Shining’s face, a comforting smile. Beside him stood Flo, an even wider smile on her lips, excitement obvious in her face. I’ll do it for her. “I can stay for the parade.”

Up and down the giant steps a pair of guards led her, Shining and Flo a few steps behind. Great masses of dragon bulged on either side of her as the had all morning, expect instead of silent stares they now roared, “Princess!” Fighting to get to the front, to be close to her. Some even threw small gems before her, cheering whenever one shattered beneath her hooves.

Eventually the king called her to the great stage set up in the centre of the bottommost step. Shining and Flo looked up at her from the first row, the young dragon’s face lit up with awe.

“Speak,” Obsidian whispered into her ear, prodding her forward slightly with his wing.

“About what?”

“I do not know, you are their saviour, not I.” With that he stepped backward, leaving her alone on the vast stage, one hundred pairs of eyes staring up at her and many more behind that.

Not knowing what to say, Cadence thought back to the dozens of times she had seen Celestia giving speeches, the princess had always seemed so calm. She often spoke of happy things, how beautiful the city was, how joyful the occasion. Cadence even recalled Celestia speaking about her one time, “Her budding little pupil,” She had said. “Like a daughter to me.”

But for all the hope and joy she had seen Celestia speak with, Cadence could only think of dark things. How blind Obsidian was when it came to love, the terrifying stories he had told her about his previous son, and how she could see the event repeating once more.

Instead of allowing her thoughts to leave her lips, she pushed them aside and thought back to Celestia, how she had always managed to brighten ponies faces with her words. I can do this.

Breathing in deep, Cadence took a step forward, her hoof almost hanging over the edge of the stage. “This has been a great festival.” Words felts hollow on her lips, the unchanged faces of the dragons before her showing how much emotion she had put into them. I can’t lie.

Shaking away the false words she had organized into a speech, Cadence took another breath and allowed her feelings to flow. “Actually it hasn’t been the best,” She admitted, noticing the smiles on a few dragons shrinking.

“Ever since I got here everything has gone horribly, from the welcoming ceremony where Ember almost killed me.” Behind her she heard the king stepping forward, felt his claw reaching for her. Instinctively she leapt forward and spread her shaky wings, soaring over the crowd.

“And then this-” Cadence stopped, realising the dragons below could no longer hear her voice. A flow of magic to her lips solved that, empowering her voice till it deafened her. “And then this festival he tried again, but both times he’s been unsuccessful.”

The crowd cheered at the mention of her success, the smiles on their lips lighting back up, spreading muzzles so she saw thousands of teeth. “Kill him!” Some called. “Banish him!” Some of the less bloodthirsty ones echoed.

“No, I don’t want to kill him.”

The cries below her silenced instantly, Cadence fearing that she had gone deaf for a moment, until she heard Flo’s cheer. “You tell them princess.”

A smile touched Cadence’s lips at the sound of her voice, her passion burning brighter than ever before. “As I said I don’t want to kill him, I want to love him.”

Below her a chuckle echoed through the silence, followed by a burst of laughter. “Love,” Called a voice she knew, the old balloon seller. “These dragons won’t fall for tales as easily as that young one has. They know love can’t change a dragon like Ember.”

“But it can and it will.” Swooping back down over the crowd, Cadence saw that many were laughing along with the old dragon. Those who weren’t murmured amongst themselves, looking up at her every so often. “Love can heal his wounds.”

Another pass and Cadence found Cloud and Skylight in her vision, racing towards her with grins on their lips. When they pulled up Skylight glanced downward. “Why are they laughing?”

Cadence sighed, head drooping downward like a wilting flower. “I told them I was going to use love to change Ember.”

A smirk lifted the corners of Skylight’s lips. “I think I understand.” Looking to Cloud, her smile tightened until it disappeared, her features strict one more. “Anyway, we found where he hides.”

“There’s a mountain some distance from here,” Cloud explained for her. “In the side of it there’s a cave we saw him fly into, and didn’t come back out.”

Gazing past the pegasi hovering before her, Cadence struggled to maintain a stable height as she studied the rise and fall of the distant landscape. “Do you think I could fly there?”

Skylight shook her head. “Even if you could, why? Do you think he won’t kill you?”

“Well, I’m not too sure, but I know he needs help.” Diving into her recent memories, Cadence brought Ember’s face to the forefront of her mind. “I could see it in his eyes when I talked about his mother. That day still haunts him.”

“If you do go, I’ll be taking you. Someone has to keep you alive.”

“I’d like that.” Cadence looked down to Shining and Flo, backed up against the stage, gazing up at the hovering three. “We should probably get going. I’ve had enough of this festival.”

The ethereal blue mattress felt like a soft cloud as Cadence sunk into it, her wings still throbbing from their unexpected workout. They had seen little of the king since he had attempted to silence her speech, his duty still requiring him to attend the festival.

Flo stood out on the balcony, late afternoon sun lighting her scales. Ear tilted up. she was still listening to the sounds of distant dragons, breathing in the final smells of the dying day. Cadence had thought about telling her that their one night arrangement was over, but didn’t have the heart.

The softness beneath her shifted slightly as Shining lay down beside her, his mane stuck to the side of his neck with sweat. “I wonder if there’s anywhere we can wash around here?”

Stroking the side of her coat, Cadence felt the filth as well. There weeks of waterless journey had left them with little to wash with, only when she mustered up enough energy to fill a pool for them did the four ever clean themselves. The heat of the festival day had not helped either.

“Well, I haven’t seen anything. Maybe dragons don’t clean themselves?” Cadence glanced towards the balcony where Flo was still staring out into the distance. “Flo, do dragons bathe?”

The young dragon turned to her words, confusion creasing her brow, “Of course we do, otherwise we’d get smelly.” She made a face. “I always swim in the big fountain. The water there’s warm.”

“Is there anywhere in the palace where we could wash then?”

Stepping back inside, Flo eyed the room suspiciously. “If it’s anywhere like the inn, they’ll be in the wall.” Moving away from Shining and Cadence, she stalked towards the nearest wall, opening the cupboard hidden inside it with her claw. “Not here.”

Around the room she moved, finding jewels and precious metals, bedsheets and beds half the size of the room itself, even the half-filled pillow storage they had emptied the previous day. “No, no, no, no, no. Yes!”

Flo glanced back to Shining and Cadence, her claw beckoning them over. “I found it.”

Rising from their cuddling, they joined the young dragon. A hallway, narrow by dragon standards, allowed them in a room behind the wall. The room was dim, Cadence just able to make out a pair of doors that stood at the far end of the hall, tall enough to admit most dragons.

Lighting her horn, Cadence took a step forward and found her hoof falling through air. She quickly extended her wings, flailing them helplessly as she tried to stop her eventual descent.

Water, she felt it enveloping her hoof, running up her leg until her snout impacted against the surface with a splash, the rest of her body following. It’s so warm, Cadence thought as she twisted in the water, aiming her head for the surface.

Laughter filled the air as she broke through, gasping for breath. “I didn’t know you wanted a wash so badly,” Shining half said, half chuckled, unaware of the ringing mass of magic positioned behind his rump.

Watching his features, Cadence giggled herself as smile on Shining’s face was quickly replaced with wide eyes, his body splashing into the water beside her. As he came up, she felt his foreleg brush underneath her tail, gracing the edges of her lips.

Still standing at the edge of the pool, Flo bent her legs before springing forward, curling her body into a ball midair, “Watch out below!” She cried, expecting a splash to follow her words, but it never did. “What?” Opening her eyes, Flo realised she was suspended above the pool by the same blue glow that had nudged Shining into it.

“Sorry Flo but,” Cadence back looked to Shining, his hoof still stroking the inside of her thigh. “I think we’d rather bathe alone tonight, maybe another.”

“But why? Are you having secret fun without me?”

Cadence noticed a blush flare on Shining’s cheeks, grey in the dim light, her own cheeks feeling warm as well. “Well, I guess we are, but it’s the kind of fun you only share with the one closest to you. You’ll understand one day.”

A frown crossed Flo’s muzzle. “You better not have too much fun.” Turning, she stepped towards the door.

“I don’t know if I can promise that,” Cadence called after her. “Oh, and can you shut the door?”

The light from the main room gone, Cadence and Shining were in complete darkness, only the sensation of his touch against her rump letting Cadence know she wasn’t alone.

“I thought we were going to have to wait until we left the dragon lands,” Cadence breathed as Shining’s touch teased her nethers, causing her to squeeze tight, pushing her pink nub out towards him. “Who knew they’d have a perfect place in our room?”

“Flo did.” Cadence heard a ringing accompany Shining’s voice, followed by the wall before her lighting with a soft blue. “Why don’t we move out of the pool?” He suggested, stepping past her. “I can’t do everything I’d like to in the water.”

Reaching the other end of the pool, Cadence found Shining’s hoof outstretched, ready to help her up. He pulled her into a tight hug, muzzle kissing at her ear. “Do you have anything planned?” His hoof roamed the length of her back as he spoke, playing with the base of her tail.

Shivering as he touched the sensitive area, Cadence scanned the room, mostly empty but for a sizable pipe embedded into the wall on one side. “Not really, but-” A gasp cut of her speech as Shining glanced her lips with his hoof, sending a rush of pleasure along her spine. “I might be able to think of something.”

Still intertwined the moved toward the wall, Shining stroking her rear with a blue glow, Cadence’s head curled into his neck, gasping and moaning whenever he touched her sensitive lips.

“Okay,” Cadence breathed when they were underneath the pipe. “I think that’s supposed to shower us with water, but I can’t see how to turn it on.”

“It’ll be just like all the other dragon things.” Shining extended a leg backward, kicking against the wall gently, a gurgle of water sounding from the pipe in response. “You just touch it.”

Water followed his words, a light sprinkle, like warm rain, drenching their manes and coats, easing Cadence’s aching wings. “That’s better. Now why don’t we continue?”

Shining’s hoof squeezed against her rump as he pressed his lips into hers, drinking in her lips and tongue. Reaching underneath his belly, she felt his hot length, almost full from playing with the lips underneath her tail.

Gently, Cadence ran her hoof along it, hardening it completely. Kissing and playing with each other, warm water rained down upon them, washing the sweat from their coats, water heavy fringes forcing them to close their eyes.

She stepped into him, pushing him towards the wall, again and again, until his rear was pressed against the stone. Slowly Cadence moved sideways, spinning both of them around until it was her pressed up against the wall.

Breaking away from the kiss, she pressed her lips into his ear. “Just follow my lead.” Turning from him, Cadence reared up against the wall, until she was almost flat against it. Her legs were spread, revealing her glistening pink lips. She glanced back at him with lowered eyelids, bottom lip between her teeth.

Feeling a rush of want burning hot in his body, Shining reared up behind her, positioning the tip of his member against her nethers before driving upward. His hips against her rump, she squeezed around him, begging for him to move.

Shining obeyed the request eagerly, driving himself completely inside her before pulling back out as far as he could, half his length still resting inside. The motion felt strange to him, Shining forced to bend his legs to get any further out of her.

Realising this, Cadence extended her wings, beating upward slightly to lift herself from his length, before dropping back down, gasping as he filled her once more.

Up and down she beat her wings, sliding against the now wet stone as Shining tried his best to thrust in the awkward position. Cadence’s cries echoed around the room, the splashing of water against their coats doing little to muffle them.

After some time Shining felt strain building in his legs, the weight of each of Cadence’s drops causing his hooves to slip backwards slightly. “Cadence,” He groaned, as she fell again, his slippery grip on the floor below barely holding both of them upright. “Can we move to an easier position? My hooves are slipping.”

Glancing downward, Cadence noticed how Shining was leaning into her, looking as if he was slipping over already. “Okay.” Gently, she lowered herself until her hooves could touch the ground, Shining’s shaft deep inside her. “Why don’t we lie down?”

With Cadence’s support Shining managed to right himself, the stone beneath his hooves feeling firmer. A step backwards and he felt his tired legs collapsing, pulling both Cadence and him onto the stone.

A small puddle of water softened Shining’s fall a little, but the force of Cadence coming down upon him and the stone meeting his back knocking the breath from his chest. His shaft remained inside, held by her tight inner muscles, she squeezed around him as they settle on the floor.

“Are you ready to continue?” Cadence questioned, her voice breathy as she wiggled her rump against Shining’s hips, stimulating her sensitive nub against his fur.

Unable to speak, Shining simply nodded, wanting to feel release.

Cadence placed her hooves on either side of his head and pushed, drawing herself off of Shining’s length before driving back down, gasping with pleasure as he filled her. Up and down she rode him, the want in her loins driving her.

“Cadence,” Shining said once he had recovered his breath. “I think I’m getting close.”

Squeezing around him, Cadence sensed the tension in his member, shaking her head. “You’ve still got a little longer to go.” Her horn lit with blue and Shining felt the tension in his member fade slightly, the imminent need to release gone.

With little to do in his position, Shining found his hooves roaming over Cadence’s rear, squeezing at pink cheeks and pulling at the end of her tail while he watched her moan and gasp in response.

Moving his hooves with each thrust, he noticed the distance of each movement lessen, her rump only rising half the way it had done when she started before slamming back down. Cadence’s gasps grew more rapid with the shorter movements, the pitch of them rising as well, She’s nearly finished.

Watching her, Shining noticed her back arching, eyelids dropping as she screamed her pleasure at the top of her lungs. The tension in his groin returned instantly, his balls feeling as if they were about to burst, his member tensing up to release.

“Shining!”

She spasmed hard and fast around his length, driving him over the edge as well. Her wetness dripped down onto his fur as he filled her with shot after shot of his hot seed, the cries from her lips turning to gasping breaths.

Thrusting himself slightly into her, Shining moaned himself, the sensation of release one that he wished would continue forever. Her insides sucked at him like a foal drinking from its mother’s teat, draining him until he had no more to give.

Eventually he felt Cadence sigh, the writhing of her muscles around him loosening as she leant forward, her head resting in the crevice of his neck. “After a day like today, that was exactly what I needed.”

His shaft still leaking the last drops of his seed inside her, Shining felt a smile coming to his lips, “Maybe I should plan stressful days more often.”

She giggled as well, the sound echoing round the room, “Maybe they’re not so bad after all.”

“Cadence!” The voice came from one end of the room, Skylight’s.

Both Shining and Cadence’s bodies jolted, heads instantly snapping towards the sound. “Yes?” Cadence answered.

“The king wants to talk with you.” Her head poked inside, spotting them, one atop the other, underneath a shower of water. A smile touched the pegasus’s lips. “I’ll tell him to wait.”

When Skylight’s head disappeared and the door clicked shut, Cadence slid off of Shining before turning her rear towards the shower, allowing the water to wash away his seed. “I guess we spoke too soon, this day isn’t over yet.”

Shining rose and stood beside her, washing the last drops from the end of his shrinking shaft. “Do you think he’s angry at you for what you said today? It looked like he wanted to stop you up on the stage.”

“Well I hope not. It’s bad enough that the dragon prince hates me without his father joining him as well.”

Obsidian waited out on the balcony, Flo staring at angrily from inside. “He stole my spot,” She said as Cadence passed.

Stroking the young dragon's neck, Cadence smiled reassuringly at her. “Don’t worry, he’ll be gone soon.”

“He better.”

The sound of her hoofsteps caused him to turn, the emotion on his features not one Cadence had expected, disappointment.

“Why do you insist on endangering your life princess?” He began. “Your visit here was supposed to be little more than a taste of the dragon culture for you, why you you wish to change it so badly?”

“Well, they’re all so unhappy.” Glancing back inside, Cadence caught sight of Flo’s eyes, warily staring at the king. “And scared. They’re scared of Ember mostly, but they’re also scared of you. I just want the dragons to live happily.”

“They are happy, did you not see the festival?”

“I did, and while the crowds might have cheering, just the sight of Ember changed that. There’s no reason for them to live in that kind of fear.”

“I will deal with him,” Obsidian insisted, impatience leaking into his voice.

“How? By killing him like you did with your last son? He doesn’t need to be dealt with, he needs love.”

“A monster like that has no knowledge of love. You heard what he said, if I tried to show him love he’d just laugh in my face as he did yours.”

“I heard what he said, but I also saw what he truly felt. I saw the frightened dragon behind those golden eyes of his. A dragon who needs love.”

Obsidian scoffed. “Will you never understand princess? He is beyond the reach of your love. Give up already!”

The order caused Cadence to step back, her jaw dropping, eyes lowering to the ground. “I know this is something you don’t want to hear,” She said softly, Obsidian having to lean close to hear. “But I think you’re missing out on love just as much as your son is, and that’s why you can’t see what he lacks.”

A touch of anger flared in his eyes. “How dare you-” He drew a deep breath, extending his wings. “You are past conversing with princess. Whatever follys you might think of committing, I leave you to them.” He stepped up on the balcony railing, poised to take off. “If you die, the blood is not on my claws.” The wind caught his wings as he leapt off, carrying him up into the late afternoon sky, black on orange.

“Is he gone?” Cadence heard Flo dashing out behind her, her muzzle raised as she followed Obsidian through the sky. “That king is one old meanie.”

Her hoof instinctively finding Flo’s head, Cadence stroked downward along her neck. “I think you’re partly right Flo. He can be one mean dragon.”

Snatching Hatchlings

Stones kicked at Cadence’s hooves as she stepped through the darkness, unable to see where she was going or which way she had come from. Unable to do anything but keep walking, hoping that eventually she would find some light.

Where am I? How did I get here? The answers to these questions evaded her memories, as if she had been walking through this darkness her whole life. My horn, She realised, stopping to concentrate on the spark she usually held above her head, but when she reached for it, she found nothing.

Lifting a hoof, Cadence found her horn was gone, a flat patch of fur in its place, indistinguishable from the rest around it. What happened? Where is my horn? She wanted to scream but nothing came out, her lips feeling as if they were stitched together.

It’s a dream, She thought, hoping if she believed hard enough it would be true. It’s just a dream, if I close my eyes I’ll wake up next to Shining. It’s just a dream. In the darkness she could not tell whether her eyes were open or closed however, whichever way she moved them making no difference.

So she continued to walk, unsure if she were walking forward or backward, unsure if she would ever leave what she thought to be a dream. Another rock kicked at her hoof, causing her to stumble forward, her snout burrowing into the orange-brown dirt.

Snorting and blinking, Cadence pushed herself out of the dirt, wiping the remaining specks away with her hoof. My hoof! She could see it before her, only faintly, but it was there, a dim pink blob. There must be light up ahead.

Her pace quickened until she was galloping through the cave, its walls slowly revealing themselves, but she wasn’t looking at them. Cadence’s eyes were focused on the distant point of light, growing closer with each stride, the rocks that had tried to trip her before now swept aside, allowing for a clear path.

All at once the light met her, the tunnel opening up to a cavern before her eyes, the path below ending abruptly. Skidding to a halt, Cadence had to lean backward to stop herself from toppling over the edge into the bubbling lava below.

Peering over the edge, she saw nothing but molten rock below, no exit in sight. What is this place? Am I in a volcano? All thought left Cadence’s mind as something burst from the lava below her, a head of red scales and golden eyes. Ember.

He flew up to meet her, open mouth displaying rows of sharp teeth the size of her hoof, each stained with dark brown. Molten rock spilled from his wings as he left the lava, claws gripping the ledge before her as he settled, hovering, eyes level with hers.

Princess. The greeting didn’t come from his lips, but instead Cadence simply sensed it, as if the thought had been placed into her mind. His jaws opened, forming something that could have been a grin before he leant forward, teeth capturing Cadence before she could react.

Darkness surrounded her again, the sensation of defeat filling her chest. A great weight that made her simply want to lie down, lie down and cry. Obsidian’s voice echoed in her head, “If you die, the blood is not on my claws.”

Eyelids fluttered before her, a gasp filling Cadence’s lungs as Shining’s neck came into focus, lit up by the blue mattress the slept upon. A dream, She thought, nodding. I knew it was just a dream.

Lifting her head, she took in the world around her. The hazy windows were lit with the dim blue of early morning light, the sun still resting below the horizon. Just go back to sleep Cadence, no one’s awake yet.

A blink and she woke again, Flo standing before her with a grin on her lips, the golden glow of the rising sun behind her. “Princess, come watch the sun.” She tugged at Cadence’s foreleg, trying to lead Cadence out onto the balcony.

Glad for something to pass the time, Cadence rose and stepped out into the chilly morning air after Flo, Shining groaning and rolling over into the gap she left.

“Isn’t it just the best?” Flo’s eyes were wide as she stared out sliver of sun peeking over the horizon and all the golden glory it brought.

Breathing in the crisp morning air, Cadence found her mind wandering back to past mornings when she had watched Celestia raise the sun. The princess had always seemed too calm as she performed the magnificent act, like it were as easy as lifting a hoof.

Maybe it is, Cadence pondered, a thought she had often had as a filly. Celestia did say the sun was part of her in some way or another. The sensation of scales against her side broke Cadence from her thoughts, her eyes finding Flo staring at her.

“You’re going to see Ember today aren’t you?”

“Well,” The previous day hit Cadence in a rush of memories, her confrontation with Ember, Skylight and Cloud’s discovery of his hiding place, and last of all her conversation with Obsidian. “Yes. I hadn’t thought about it so far this morning, but that was what I was planning.”

Flo’s eyes sunk, her muzzle falling slightly. “Do you have to go? I know you’re a crazy princess and everything, but I’m scared.”

“There’s no reason to be scared Flo.” Shuffling closer to the dragon, Cadence cradled her head in the slope of her neck, the same way Shining did when she was troubled. “I wasn’t going to ask you to come.”

“I didn’t mean that silly.” Flo stepped back from Cadence, her lips twisted in a frown. “I’m scared for you. What if Ember, what if he… eats you.”

Cadence blinked as she felt Ember’s teeth back against her neck for an instant, one hot breath blowing against her mane. Calming herself with a deep breath, she shook her head. “He wouldn’t do that. He’s not that kind of dragon, I can tell.” Even as she spoke she found herself doubting her own words, What if she’s right? What if he does eat me?

A distant cry pulled Cadence from her thoughts, both her and Flo rushing to the edge of the balcony, eyes searching for the source.

“Over there,” She heard Flo call, directing her eyes with a claw.

Cadence managed to catch the dying glimmer of a flame before the city fell silent once more, only a hint of smoke showing any signs that something had happened. Still watching, her ears picked up another cry, followed by a dragon cloaked in red scales shooting into the air. Ember, she knew.

Turning back to Flo, Cadence found the dragon still staring out at the city. “That was Ember wasn’t it?” A nod confirmed her suspicions. “What would he be doing in the middle of the city? I thought he lived far away?”

“Someone probably forgot to pay,” Flo responded, her tone calm, as if this was nothing out of the ordinary. “Or maybe he was bored. There’s all sorts of reasons why he’d steal something.”

“Don’t the guards do anything about it?”

Blue shoulders slumped as Flo shook her head. “No. They used to, when I was still a hatchling. But so many died trying to stop him and the king ordered the guards to stop interfering. Ember does whatever he wants.”

Glancing back out at the twist of smoke that rose in the centre of the city and the fading body of rubies behind it, Cadence felt her heart sinking. If only Obsidian knew why his son was doing this, if only he’d listen. “I’ve got to do something. I can’t just let dragons be terrorised like this.”

Turning away from the balcony, Cadence made to step back inside, only to find Flo’s grasp stopping her. Worry lined her features, “You’re going to be okay, right princess?”

Cadence nodded, patting Flo’s head. “I’ll be fine, Celestia’s watching over me.”

The worry on Flo’s face faded slightly, the hint of a smile showing on her lips. “You're going to go kick Ember’s butt?”

“Well, not really. I’m going to kick the butt of the mean dragon that lives inside him.”

A smile spread right across Flo’s muzzle, her eyes lighting up. “As long as there’s butt kicking.”

Chuckling to herself, Cadence made her way towards the balcony door, only to find the pony she had been looking for standing there. “Skylight? When did you wake up?”

The pegasus stared past her, out into the cityscape beyond. “I heard a scream. What happened?”

“Ember did. We saw a burst of flame come from a house, and then he flew away from it. Flo said he’d be stealing something.”

Skylight’s eyes narrowed, lips twisting in a snarl. “I know you want to change him Cadence, but this dragon needs a little force to help him.” Her wings flared as she stepped past Cadence.

For once Cadence found herself smiling at Skylight’s aggression. “Well, let’s not waste any time talking. Are you ready to leave?”

Surprise came to Skylight’s features, softening the anger that lay there. “You want to come?” Seeing Cadence’s nod, she lowered herself to the ground. “Get on then.”

The moment Cadence’s hooves gripped around her neck Skylight leapt into the air, wings propelling them forward so quickly Cadence felt a gulp of air forced into her lungs.

So this is what flying fast really feels like, She thought, forced to close her eyes to stop the wind from tearing them out. Her mane flew in a frenzy behind her, Cadence feeling hairs tearing off.

Just as quickly as they had started, they stopped, Cadence’s stomach slamming into her neck, the air in her lungs leaping free. She heard Skylight’s hooves click against stone. “He’s gone.”

Opening her eyes, Cadence found Skylight’s words to be true. The smudge of crimson scales that had been on the distant horizon when they left was gone. She felt Skylight’s legs bend against the stone wall underneath her, ready to take off once more.

“He must be at that mountain.”

“Wait,” Cadence cried, her voice stopping the descent of Skylight’s wings. “If he’s at his cave then we can go to him later. I’d like to visit the house he was at first.”

“Why?”

So I can have a break from your deathly flying, Cadence thought, but instead she said, “I want to find out what happened, what Ember took, and I want to find the house so we can return whatever he stole.”

Skylight hesitated for a moment, eyes still on the distant line of mountains. “Okay,” She said eventually. “We can’t take too long however.”

“Just give me ten minutes.”

The small swirl of smoke proved surprisingly easy to find in a city full of fire breathing beasts, the house that sat below it showing obvious signs of the fire. It was a squat building of black stone, only slightly larger than the tent Shining and Cadence slept inside at night.

A hole had been blasted out of the roof, scatterings of brick laying across its surface. Sobbing came from within, filling Cadence’s ears as they gently descended.

They landed in a dim alley outside of the building’s entrance, the door in a similar state to the roof. Smashed open to allow for a body several times larger than both Cadence and Skylight together, the black stone that had once filled the hole now littered the ground on either side.

“Hello?” Cadence called as she stepped towards the opening, knocking on the cracked stone with a hoof. “If anyone home?”

A sob answered her question and nothing else, whoever was inside trying to choke back their tears, silence themselves.

Taking another step, Cadence leant into the cramped space, her eyes finding a figure huddled in one corner of the room. “It’s alright, I’m not going to hurt you. I just want to see if you’re okay.”

She heard a watery gasp, followed by the sound of scales scraping against stone. “Princess?” A weak voice called out, its owner clearly on the verge of tears. “Is that you?”

“Yes.” Cadence felt a smile touching her lips as she took another step forward, lighting her horn and filling the room with a soft glow. “I’ve just come to ask you what happened here.” She sensed Skylight stepping into the building behind her.

“Oh I can’t believe you came.” A dragon of deep green scales burst out of the shadows, the sides of her snout stained with tears. She held her fore legs outstretched, wrapping them around Cadence when she was close enough. “No one ever dares to help Ember’s victims anymore.”

Lifting a foreleg, Cadence stroked along the side of the dragon before her, careful to avoid the broken row of spikes in the centre of her back. A smile came to her lips as she thought of how they must look, like a badger nursing a bear the dragon would have stood twice as tall as her.

Still stroking, Cadence brought her muzzle close to the dragon’s ear, whispering softly. “What happened?”

“He-” The dragon choked back a sob, her whole body shaking violently, the force almost knocking Cadence off balance. “He took my hatchling, my precious little Azure. Could you-” She choked again, this time with less force. “Could you rescue her?”

“Of course,” Cadence said without thinking, imagining if it had been Twilight that had been taken. Or Flo. The quirky little dragon had grown on her in the recent days, reminding Cadence of how much she missed babysitting. “Will you be okay to stay here?”

The dragon nodded, stepping back from Cadence. “I’ll manage. Just knowing you're going to save her makes me feel so much better.”

Smiling, Cadence turned to find Skylight crouched out in the alley, her wings spread. “Get on.”

They rocketed upward at a speed that left Cadence’s stomach behind once more, her eyes instinctively closing, forelegs tightening around Skylight’s neck. As she passed through the sky blindly, Cadence heard some cheers, the word “Princess,” Called at her more than once.

Instead of the usual discomfort she usually felt when she heard those words, Cadence felt her lips spreading slightly, smiling as much as the roaring with would allow her. Hopefully I can do something to deserve their cheers.

The words came fewer and further in between as Skylight continued to fly, never slowing in the slightest.

“We’re here,” She said eventually, pushing Cadence’s stomach into her mouth as she slowed. “This is where we followed Ember to yesterday.”

Opening her eyes, Cadence found herself gazing down at a mountain that stood some height above its brothers. Despite what Flo had told her about the lack of volcanoes, she wondered if this were one, the blackened rock at its peak and running down its sides showing signs of activity.

An entrance was carved into one of its sides, an expansive ledge giving them plenty of room to land. Stepping off of Skylight, Cadence found her legs shaky, her mind relieved to be on the ground once again. If that’s how quickly Skylight flew when she first carried Shining, I can see why he hates flying.

“Are you leading?” Skylight’s voice broke Cadence from her thoughts, pulling her attention to the shadowy mouth the stood before her.

“Well, it would be best. If there are any traps I’d rather force Celestia to protect me again than risking you.” Stepping toward the darkness, Cadence sensed Skylight follow for a step before stopping. Turning, she found Skylight staring up at the cave’s mouth, frozen. “Are you coming?”

Skylight didn’t respond, instead she took a step back from the shadow before her, wings opening.

Stepping towards the unresponsive pegasus, Cadence held out a hoof, resting it on Skylight’s shoulder. “Is something wrong Skylight?”

The touch seemed to reach the Skylight, her eyes moving away from the cave and meeting Cadence’s. “I’m fine.” Blue wings returned to their resting place, the terror on Skylight’s features fading away.

“Well let’s keep going then.” Turning back to the cave, Cadence strode inside once more, expecting to hear the hoofsteps of Skylight following, but once again they stopped. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

Outside the cave once more, Cadence stood beside the wordless Skylight, watching at the pegasus’s blue eyes shook with fear. “Skylight?” She questioned again, touching a hoof softly against Skylight’s cheek. “Are you afraid of something?”

“No.” Skylight drew away from Cadence’s touch, stepping back towards the cave. The moment the cool touch of shadow passed over her body a shiver followed, Skylight quickly dashing back to Cadence’s waiting forelegs.

“Are you afraid of the dark?” The question felt wrong to Cadence as she spoke it, her mind bringing forth many memories of Skylight and Cloud’s night flying.

“No.” Skylight shook her head as she pulled away from Cadence’s grasp, eyes glancing between the shadowy mouth and her interrogator. “It’s caves. They feel wrong.”

Moving towards the pegasus, Cadence held out a hoof, ready to pull Skylight into a hug. “There’s no need to be afraid. I’ll be right here beside you.” She’s not a filly, Cadence found herself thinking. She won’t fall for silly promises.

Yet the words seemed to calm Skylight, her wings relaxing, the fear lining her face fading away. Still she shook her head. “I can’t go in. I won’t be able to move.”

Persistent, Cadence met Skylight’s eyes, holding the blue pair with her pink. “This isn’t the Skylight I know. Where’s the brave pegasus I know? The one who would never be afraid of a cave, no matter how deep it went.”

Skylight’s lips lifted slightly. “I’m not that pony.” Pulling away from Cadence’s hug, she stood to face the cave. “I’m afraid, but I’ll do it.”

Smiling herself, Cadence stood beside Skylight. “That’s the Skylight I know.” Stepping into the darkness, she looked back to find Skylight following this time, shaky legs carrying her forward. Now if only convincing Ember was that easy.

They continued in silence, the only sounds their breathing echoing off of the walls around them and the click of their hooves against stone. Whispers of wind rushed past them every so often, playing with Cadence’s mane and stirring up dust.

“What are we doing when we get there?” Skylight asked after some time.

“Well, I’d like to talk with him, hopefully.” If he doesn’t try biting my head off first. The thought danced through Cadence’s head, a fear that had resided there ever since Ember’s teeth had wrapped around her neck.

“If we can’t?”

“If we can’t?” Cadence repeated, wondering the same thing herself. Will we have to fight him? What if that makes him even angrier? What if he can’t be changed? Shaking the insecurities away, she forced herself to smile. “Hopefully we won’t have to think about that.”

A faint scream echoed Cadence’s words, followed by a roar. Both ponies stopped, tilting their heads to hear better.

“You heard that?” Skylight whispered.

Cadence nodded, straining her hearing for anything else, but all she found was the rush of wind past her ear. Eventually she dropped her head, “We must be getting closer. I hope Azure is still okay.”

Their pace picked up as they continued, the roof of the cave rising above them until Cadence’s dim light no longer reached it. Every few steps they moved quicker and quicker, until they were both running through the cave, dodging piles of rocks and avoiding holes in the ground.

“I can see light ahead,” Skylight grunted after they had been running for some time.

Cadence could hear her own breathing, heavy and hurting. Dispelling the light of her horn, she slowed to a walk. “Why don’t we, go a, little slower?”

A smirk came across Skylight’s now dim features, her breathing slow and steady, as if she had just woken from a nap. “We are tired aren’t we.”

Shaking her head, Cadence found herself smiling as well. As long as I can catch my breath before we encounter Ember, you can tease me all you want.

Stepping slowly now, they continued towards the light, a steady, soft sound filling Cadence’s ears, growing louder with each step. Is that bubbling, She thought. I wonder if this light is coming from lava?

As they grew closer her ears confirmed her suspicions, the bubbling sound unmistakable, as well as the heat that came with large quantities of the molten rock. It met both ponies, becoming hotter and hotter until Cadence could feel sweat forming under her coat.

Ahead tunnel turned abruptly, both ponies stopping a step or two before the corner.

“Wait here,” Cadence whispered, one eye on the corner before her, one on Skylight. “I’ll go in and rescue Azure and then come back out.” Turning away from Skylight, she made to move around the bend.

“What?” A harsh whisper from Skylight’s lips stopped Cadence in her tracks, causing her head to swing back. “Why don’t you want me with you?”

“Well, I don’t want you getting hurt. We don’t know what’s waiting behind this wall.”

“Cadence, I’ll be fine. Now lets go.” Not waiting for a response, Skylight stepped around Cadence, the orange-yellow glow lighting up her blue coat as if she were on fire.

Sighing, Cadence followed quickly, watching her hooves, careful not to trip on anything. The heat grew almost unbearable as they rounded the corner, the bubbling of lava joined by the sound of it passing below them, lapping at the sides of its containment.

Across the small stream of lava stood Ember, his back to them, forelegs moving, occupied with something his body hid.

Still moving as silently as they could, both ponies came to the lava’s edge, the other side half a dozen leaps away. Skylight looked to Cadence wordlessly, her expression saying all that was needed, I knew you’d need me.

As gently as she could, Cadence mounted the crouched pegasus, Skylight leaping into the air the moment she was comfortable. Soaring over the lava, Cadence bit her lip, restraining herself from wincing as the extreme heat bit at the underside of her hooves. If it’s this bad for me, what must Skylight be feeling?

Skylight landed with a thump, hissing softly as she closed her wings away. “Sorry,” She whispered as Cadence climbed off.

The sound had broken Ember away from the object he was so intent on. Turning, his lips reared in a snarl, eyes lighting up with anger when he spied the pony standing before him. “Princess,” He spat, wiping his muzzle with the back of a claw, as if bile had just left his lips. “Did you come to kill me? Or did my father send you to lock me away? Either way this is your death.”

“No.” Cadence held up a hoof as Ember stepped forward, pleading with her eyes. “I don’t want to kill you, or do anything your father would want me to do. I just want to talk.” Looking into his eyes, she found a battle raging there. The fear of a young dragon cowered beneath the wrath of his long brewing hate.

“Talk?” Ember stepped forward again, a muffled sob coming from behind him, causing him to flick his snarl backward. “Quiet!” He roared, eliciting a scream from whatever was there.

Leaning her neck sideways, Cadence caught a glimpse of dull blue scales, terrified eyes and tear stained cheeks. “Is that Azure?”

“If that’s what you wish to call it, more trouble than it’s worth.” Ember growled as she whimpered again. “I saw you caring for one of those young things and I thought capturing one would bring you to me. Looks like I was right.” He stepped to the side, allowing the hatchling to see Cadence.

“Princess!” She cried, her voice choked with tears.

“Don’t worry,” Cadence called back, reaching out a hoof to Azure. “You’ll be safe soon.”

Completely focused on the hatchling, Cadence felt something strike her in the side and drive her to the dirt, breath knocked out of her lungs. I’m so stupid, I let Ember trick me. The thought sat in her mind until she realised the body that had collided with her was soft and warm, not scaly.

“Lucky I came.” Skylight’s voice lifted Cadence’s spirits, her muzzle lifting up to nuzzle the inside of the pegasus’s neck.

“Thank you so much Skylight.” Before she could say anything more, Skylight sprung off her, turning to face the dragon that was approaching them once more.

Rising from the ground herself, Cadence dashed across to the constrained dragon as Skylight dodged Ember’s sweeping lunge, leaping over his foreleg and dashing away.

Azure’s lips curled up in a smile as she watched Cadence fumbling with the chains that pinned her to the rock wall. “Thank you princess.”

This time Cadence kept one eye one Ember and one on Azure, watching as the prince turned away from the taunting Skylight to face her. “Don’t think I’ll be fooled by such a simple trick.”

“You already have,” Skylight called back, the sound of chuckling following her words.

Gritting his teeth, Ember ignored the distraction and instead focused on Cadence. The great leather canopies that were his wings spread out over his back, legs bending underneath him, storing power for a leap.

“Watch out Cadence,” Skylight warned. “He’s launching himself at you.”

As the scene playing out in the corner of one eye, Cadence still fumbled with the chains to no avail, finding no way she could break the bonds without tightening their grip around Azure.

The instant Cadence saw Ember leap, she grunted, lighting her horn with an inferno of blue, focusing her spark inside the wall behind Azure. At the same time she focused some of her power into a simple shield, a hazy blue defence between her and the charging Ember.

Moments before he would collide with her, Cadence released the built up power in the stone, causing the chunk of stone holding Azure to break from the wall, an aura of blue catching her. Cadence stepped back as soon as she had the rock in her grasp, angling her shield so Ember would only glance it.

Another step backward and she felt the force of his blow, shattering her shield and plunging into the rock Cadence had stood beside only moments ago, his head and neck and shoulders filling the gap she had created. The whole cave shook on impact, cracks splitting from the hole Ember had entered, pebbles raining from the ceiling.

As soon as everything came to a standstill, Cadence dashed across to Skylight, Azure and her rock floating a few steps behind.

Skylight still stared at where Ember was lodged in the wall. “That was close.” A muffled roar followed her voice, flame bursting out the tight cracks around Ember’s shoulders.

Glancing up at the back end of Ember, Cadence nodded. “I hope he’s alright.” She heard Skylight chuckle.

“He tried to kill you and you wonder if he’s okay? Let’s untie this dragon and go.”

Tearing her eyes away from the raging prince, Cadence lay the rock she held on the ground before wrapping the chains in her magic. Slowly, gently, she dislodged the stakes from the rock, unwinding the chain from Azure’s body, careful not to choke her. The dragon smiled at her the whole time, eyes full of awe.

When they had finally freed her, Azure leapt up to latch onto Cadence’s neck, the weight of her body pulling Cadence downward. “Oh thank you, thank you, thank you princess. Do you know what happened to my mommy?”

Gently, Cadence unwrapped Azure’s forelegs from her neck, lowering the bundle of blue to the ground. “Your mother’s fine, we made sure of that before coming. Now why don’t you climb on Skylight’s back,” She motioned to the pegasus who stood a step back, bringing a look of unease to Skylight’s features. “And she’ll take you back across the lava.”

Nodding, Azure gladly accepted a pat from Cadence before dashing over to Skylight, looking up at the pegasus as she shot an icy glare at Cadence.

Cadence simply smiled back before turning to the body that stuck out of the rock, muffled grunts and roars still coming from Ember.

“Just leave him Cadence,” She heard Skylight call as she stepped towards him. “He deserves it.”

Taking another step, Cadence thought back through her memories of Ember, picking out the emotions that came with each one. The ghostly sensation of teeth against her neck brought pure terror, as well as awe of Celestia’s great power, but there was also pity there. A frightened little dragon she had always seen in his eyes. I know there’s good in him, he’s just too afraid to let it show.

Standing right beside him now, Cadence heard the laboured breaths filling Ember’s chest as he struggled to free himself. Claws tore at the rock on either side of his neck, trying but failing to dig himself out. She could also hear Skylight speaking quietly with Azure.

“Stay here, I’ll be back.” Skylight’s hoofsteps crept up behind Cadence until she could sense the pegasus at her side. “If you want to talk with him, now is the time.”

It is, isn’t it? Cadence realised, her mind only thinking of how to free Ember without endangering herself or the other two. “Ember?”

Her voice seemed to have little impact, the body of rubies still struggling at the stone, dull roars still sounding from within.

“Ember?” Cadence said again, this time raising her voice.

“You’re still here?” A red claw swept out toward Cadence and Skylight, both of them stepping back as it skimmed a hair from where their muzzles had been. Finding nothing, his body stopped moving but for the motion of his chest, shoulders slumping. “There, I’m trapped. I know you want to kill me, just do it.”

“No,” Cadence cried, denying the accusations with her tone before lowering her voice. “No. I want to do anything but kill you. I want to talk about you, and why you terrorize everyone.”

She noticed his shoulders tense up, an almost silent snarl coming from the rock that held his head. “Why do I need a reason? Doing these things is who I am.”

“No, you’re wrong. Even if you don’t know it yourself you’re wrong. No one is cruel without a reason, wouldn’t you rather live in a peaceful city where no one feared you? Where they smiled when they saw you, they gave you gifts because they wanted to instead of being forced?”

“A world like that is a fantasy of a princess who still hasn’t grown up.” Ember raised his claws once again, trying to force himself from the rock he was so firmly wedged within. “In your own city there’s someone like me also. You might not know it, your princess is probably hiding it from you, but they’re there, spreading fear like I do. No place is perfect, there’ll always be someone like me.”

The statement silenced Cadence, her thoughts briefly drifting back to the white streets of Canterlot, Is there someone like Ember there? Casting the thought aside, she focused back on her point. “Even if you think there always will be someone like that, why does it have to be you?”

Ember’s scraping struggles paused, his whole body freezing as if he were a statue. “Why me?” Cadence thought she heard him whisper, words deafened by the rocks to the point where it could have been wind rushing past her ear. His chest fell again, voice raising as he spoke, “Because I have nothing else, my father hates me, so does everyone else in this city. Even if I changed no one would believe me.”

“Your father doesn’t hate you,” Cadence assured, resisting the urge to touch her hoof against his shoulder. “I’ve spoken to him and he seems afraid, afraid and misguided. He thinks he’ll have to do to you what he did to your brother. Do you know about your brother?” By now Azure had grown bored of watching them from afar, Cadence feeling her cuddling against her hind legs, hiding from the dragon that terrified her.

It was some time before Ember spoke, only the sound of bubbling filling their ears. “Only a little,” He said eventually, his voice softer, missing some of the aggression it had previously held. “I just know I had one.”

“What about your mother?”

Ember’s body deflated at the mention, his shoulders and forelegs falling, stillness falling over his body for a moment. Then his wings flared outward, a rush of flame spilling from the gaps around his neck.

Reacting quicker than the other two, Skylight pulled both Cadence and Azure back from the burst of flames, bundling them into a heap on the stone. “We should go,” She said, glancing back at the raging beast now thrashing against the rock.

While Azure mounted Skylight’s back Cadence stared at Ember. I’m getting closer, I can feel it. There’s someone in there who cares, I just have to bring him out. Lighting her horn, she placed a ball of glowing blue in the rock above him.

A touch of Skylight’s hoof on her shoulder turned her back to them. The pegasus shifted awkwardly with the bundle of blue scales on her back. “Wait here,” She said. “I’ll come back afterward.”

Smiling, Cadence spread her own wings. “It’s only a tiny flight, I can do it myself.”

“If you want.” Turning, Skylight leapt into the air, the pain on her features obvious as she sped across the gap. Following, Cadence instantly felt the heat increase, where her coat had been soaked in sweat it now burned, the underside of her body feeling as if it were on fire for the short flight.

On the other side she fell to the ground wincing, reciting a water spell to douse her searing wings before tending to Skylight. “You should have told me how much it hurt when we flew across before, I could have cooled you down.”

Skylight responded with a grin, “One more distraction and Ember would’ve gotten you.”

To her surprise Cadence found herself smiling as well, despite the topic’s weight. “I think so. Why don’t we take Azure back to her mother?”

Their trip out the tunnel seemed quicker than the nerve wracking walk inward. Daylight showering them before Cadence even realised they were halfway through.

“How did you become a princess?” Azure asked as they stepped into the light, the same question she had asked half a dozen times throughout their journey.

Cadence only smiled, answering the same way she had every other time. “Well I don’t know for sure, I just woke up one day and Celestia told me I was.”

“So she’s your mom?”

“I don’t know for sure, but in a way, yes.”

“So if my mom was queen instead of The King I would be a princess?”

A giggle left Cadence’s lips at the thought, “Well, yes you would.” The mention of Obsidian brought Ember to Cadence’s thoughts. I should free him now. Lighting her horn, she focused on the spark she had left above his head, focusing her energy into it and allowing it to explode. Hopefully that didn’t hurt him.

The flight back was slow, Cadence forced to fly herself as Skylight was burdened with Azure. The hatchling gasped as they grew closer and closer to the city, her eyes wide as she looked out over buildings she had never seen before. “I never knew the city was this big,” She breathed as they glided over it, towards her home.

A crowd of many colors was gathered outside the broken building, all looking upward when they heard the whisper of wings above them. Cheering broke out as the eyes of the dragons below met the sight of a pink coat. “Princess!” They called, bringing more dragons out of the side streets.

By the time they landed the alley was packed to the brim, the face of dozens of dragons around them, wanting to catch sight of Cadence.

Azure seemed somewhat frightened by the swarming mass of colorful scales around them, choosing to stay tight against Cadence and Skylight’s side until she caught sight of her mother.

Tears sprung once more from the emerald dragon’s eyes as she swept Azure up in her forelegs, holding her hatchling close. Eventually she looked up to Cadence, a smile on her lips threatening to escape her muzzle. “Thank you princess, for saving my precious Azure.” The words were echoed by others in the crowd.

Smiling herself, Cadence glanced around at all the eyes around her, each pair resting above a smile. “Thank you, but I couldn’t have done it without Skylight here.” She lifted a hoof, pointing to the pegasus beside her. “She interfered just as Ember was about to take hold of me.”

Every eye shifted in the direction of Cadence’s hoof, gasping and murmuring filling the crowd, some eyes grew wide, as if they were seeing Skylight for the first time. “Skylight?” Some questioned, the muttering of voices growing louder and louder until someone cheered, “Skylight!”

The cheers echoed each other, “Princess! Skylight!” The crowd of dragons growing even louder than they had been previously, every alley around them filling with scaly bodies.

Cadence felt her ears instinctively folding downward so she wasn’t deafened by the din. Still watching Skylight, she noticed the pegasus was frowning at her, a tint of red on her blue cheeks. Leaning close, Cadence whispered into her ear, “Would you like to leave?”

A nod from Skylight and both ponies opened their wings, Cadence waving farewell while Skylight shot straight up into the air. Following, Cadence found her sailing gently between the tall rooftops and towers back towards their balcony, avoiding the stream of activity above.

Flo greeted the pair as they landed on the grey stone with a clop. “I’m so happy you’re safe princess,” She said, wrapping Cadence in a hug, nuzzling her muzzle into a pink neck.

Eyeing the meeting with a smile, Skylight chuckled. “Where’s my hug?” She regretted the joke the instant Flo unwrapped herself from Cadence, diving at Skylight with outstretched arms.

“There,” Flo said, hanging from Skylight’s neck. “I thought you didn’t like hugs?”

Her cheeks lighting with red once more, Skylight suffered Cadence’s giggles as she untied Flo from her neck. “I don’t.”

“Then why-” Flo’s mouth was plugged by a aura of glowing blue, Cadence smiling at her.

“Where are Shining and Cloud?”

Her lips now free, Flo frowned at Cadence before speaking. “I told them where you went. They followed.” She ended the explanation with a shrug.

Before Cadence could even meet Skylight’s eyes she heard the pegasus’s wings snapping open. “I’ll find them. Stay here.” Without waiting for a response she took off at the stomach twisting speed Cadence had endured before.

“So did you beat Ember up real good?” Flo’s voice drew Cadence’s eyes away from the speeding pegasus and back to the sapphire blue dragon.

The image of Ember’s head lodged into the rock wall filled Cadence’s mind, the smile on her lips fading. “Well, in a way I did. His head got stuck in a rock wall and I was, partially involved.”

“So what did you do? Swing his body at the wall like a ram? Or maybe you shot him like an arrow. Whoosh.” One of Flo’s talons sailed before her, colliding with her other claw. “Boom! And then he’s stuck. Like that?”

Cadence giggled at Flo’s representation, lighting her horn and grasping both of the dragon’s claws with blue. “Well, almost.” Placing a hoof before one of Flo’s claws she continued. “I was here, and Ember over there.”

The sound of wings interrupted Cadence, drawing both her and Flo’s eyes to the sky. Shining was mounted atop Cloud, forelegs clutching the pegasus as tightly as his eyes were closed. Skylight flew beside them, a grin on her lips as she landed.

“I found these two gliding outside the city,” She said as Cloud landed beside her, the click of his hooves against the balcony opening Shining’s eyelids.

A smile spread Shining’s lips as he met Cadence’s eyes, the grip of his hooves easing around Cloud’s neck. “I’m so glad you’re safe. I woke up this morning and you weren’t there, when Flo told us you’d gone to fight Ember, I was so worried.” He wrapped her tightly in his forelegs, inhaling the smell of her mane.

Cloud greeted Skylight in a far more reserved way, draping one of his wings over her withers, he kissed softly at her cheek, lighting it with pink. “I missed you too.”

Standing in the middle of them all, Flo made a face before sitting down and gazing out to the sky, trying to pretend both couples weren’t there.

After some time of quiet kissing and cuddling, Cadence’s stomach growled, drawing all attention to her. “Maybe we should have something to eat. I’m starving.” Shining’s stomach growled in response, eliciting a giggle from the other three.

The four of them left Flo up in their room before descending to the throne room. They found Obsidian sitting on his throne, speaking with the few who had come to his court today. Upon sight of Cadence the minority of dragons in the throne room sneered before turning away, leaving Obsidian the only one left.

Turning to see the disruption, Obsidian’s eyes found Cadence and her party with a hint of annoyance, a sigh escaping his lips. “Those dragons have told me you’ve been troubling the city. Breaking laws that have to do with my son, is this true?”

“Well, all we did was rescue an innocent little dragon that had been stolen by your son. Is that wrong?”

Grinding his teeth, Obsidian swung his gaze away from the four, looking back out over his now empty throne room. “Even if you did not know it is unlawful to interfere with my son’s mischief, you put yourself at great risk.” He turned back to Cadence, worry now showing in the creases of his brow. “What if you had been killed princess? How would I explain that to The Princess. It would start another war.”

Stepping back from his questioning, Cadence felt the embrace of Shining closing around her withers, warm, comforting. “I know it’s dangerous, and I know I could have died, but I can’t just watch Ember spread fear through your city like this. Don’t you think your people are tired of always worrying, always wondering if today will be the day Ember picks them?”

“It is my problem!” Obsidian roared, annoyance blazing in his eyes momentarily, until he realized the volume of his voice. “I am sorry princess, I should not have shouted, but you must understand this is a delicate political situation, something I will handle without your help.”

Cadence’s muzzle fell, her eyes studying the smooth black of the stone underneath her hooves. When she spoke, her voice seemed that of the scuttling of a mouse compared to the giant’s footsteps that were Obsidian’s.

“He’s not just a political situation, he’s your son. I don’t know if you realise this Obsidian, but no treaties or bargaining will calm him, and I hope the thought of killing him will never cross your mind. All he wants is for you to love him, I can see it in his eyes, he wants someone to care for him. So maybe you could just give him a little of your time and try talking with him, like you did your other son. Love is all you need.”

All emotion faded from Obsidian’s face at Cadence’s words, worry and anger and annoyance fleeing from the unknown word. A strange wonderment filled his features, as if he were a young foal seeing a full moon for the first time. “Love?” The word came out as a breath and hung in the air. “I don’t even know what love is anymore.”

“Don’t you remember?” Cadence pleaded, feeling the urge to comfort Obsidian as she would a frightened filly. “Surely you would have felt it once before. Maybe for your wife, one of your sons? The dragon who gave you your first son?”

The hint of a smile turned up the ends of Obsidian’s lips, his eyes unfocused as memories long forgotten and pushed aside clouded his vision. “I think I do recall the feeling, like a fire burning inside. It was once a roaring inferno, but now it has dwindled to nothing but ash.” Eyes refocusing, he looked to Cadence. “How can I show love to my son, if I don’t feel it?”

The question silenced Cadence for a moment, the concept of not having love burning inside foreign to her. When did I first feel love? She thought back to that night with Shining, their first kiss. It had been burning hot in that moment, but that was not where it started.

Even further back, the first time she had seen him, it was already there, Celestia’s love wrapping her in warmth for as long as she could recall, like the rays of the sun always warming her coat. Eventually she spoke.

“Well, I don’t know for sure, but I think you need someone to show you love.”

“But who? I have no one close to me. The only ones who I know well are my advisors, but they would simply laugh.” Obsidian’s head fell, his claws supporting it.

Cadence felt Shining’s muzzle pressing into her ear, the tickling sensation pushing a smile across her lips. “Why don’t we find a dragoness for him?” His suggestion made her smile even more.

“That’s a perfect idea. You need to find a dragoness Obsidian. Someone who can show you love and teach you how to love back.” Glancing backward, she met Shining’s eyes. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Brow creasing, Obsidian shook his head at the suggestion. “I don’t have the time to do such a thing. Keeping this city together is difficult enough, let alone controlling a whole kingdom.” His eyes fell. “I don’t know if I could handle another relationship anyway, the deaths of my first two have left heavy burdens on my mind, moments I can not forget no matter how I try.”

Stepping forward again, Cadence felt a warmth swelling in her chest. “But this isn’t just for you. This will help your whole kingdom. It will help you calm Ember, help you change him into a dragon who can rule by your side.”

“I,” Obsidian sighed, gazing around the throne room before his eyes came back to rest on the throne beside him. “I don’t know. How can I be sure this will succeed? Love has always seemed like a waste of time to me, how can it possibly change things so greatly?”

Looking back to Cloud and Skylight, Cadence felt the warmth in her chest burn even brighter, memories of the broken ponies both of them had been filling her mind. “I’ve seen it happen before, I know love can solve any problem. Just-”

A throaty cough from the far end of the throne room cut Cadence off, drawing all eyes towards the dragon who stood there. Scales of sandy yellow covered his limbs and body, a sneer on his features. “Don’t listen to their talk of love. It’s all a lie.”

Studying the dragon, Cadence felt Skylight’s wings flare behind her, heard the king murmuring to himself.

“Why do you to say such things Brazen?” Obsidian said after a moment, his brow creased in question. “These ponies are simply trying to aid me with my troubles.”

Stepping along the throne room towards them, Brazen met Cadence’s eyes, curling his lips back to reveal the teeth behind. Stained with streaks of red. “Trying to trick you more like, distract you so they can hatch some plan of theirs.”

Cadence glanced at the ponies who stood behind her before speaking. “We would never plot against Obsidian. Where do you get these ideas from?”

Nodding, Obsidian shifted in his throne. “Yes Brazen. I have seen these ponies doing no such thing. From where do these accusations come?”

Standing before the throne now, Brazen licked at his lips with a thin tongue, like that of a snake’s. “Where do I begin?” He held up his claws, silently counting out their grave deeds on each one. “Ah, that’s right. Before they even entered the city they were fooling us with false names. This one,” Extending a pearly white talon, he pointed at Skylight. “Gave the false name Nectar to one of their escorts. Why?”

All of them turned to Skylight, her wings still ruffled, eyes narrowed. “I didn’t trust him.”

Brazen gasped, as if she had committed the most vile crime. Turning to Obsidian, he met the king’s eye with shock on his features. “You can already see their deceit. What reason would they have to mistrust one of the king’s own number if not for some malicious plot?”

Eyeing the dragon standing before him, Obsidian’s jaw shifted, all emotion gone from his face. “Which one of the guards was it? I find a few of them difficult to trust myself.”

“Ah-” Brazen faltered, his eyes flicking around the room, looking for an excuse.

“Which one Brazen?”

Sighing, Brazen’s neck drooped, a frown creeping onto his lips. “Signa.”

A smile touch Obsidian’s muzzle. “The well known gambler? I would be surprised if anyone could put their complete trust in that dragon any longer. His great strength is the only reason he still remains on the guard.”

Lifting his head, Brazen shook his claws before him. “But that is not all king, there are other acts that show them to be the tricksters they are.” Rolling his eyes into his head, he counted off on his claws once more.

Thinking back herself, Cadence found a few moments coming to mind. Maybe it would be best if I told them myself? “Like how we smuggled Flo into our rooms?”

“Yes!” Brazen looked up to Cadence, surprise filling his features as he realised who had spoken, a frown and a creased brow chasing it away. “Hiding a dragon without the king’s knowledge. Why would you do such a thing?”

Bringing the memories of Flo to mind, Cadence felt a smile spreading across her lips. “She was all alone, and frightened Ember was going to hunt her down. I couldn’t just leave her.” Looking up to Obsidian, she noticed his features hard once more.

“It is true they should not have done that without my knowledge.” He glanced to the ponies that stood beside him. “But how does smuggling a hatchling have a thing to do with a plot? Your accusations hold little sense.”

“Yes, but,” Looking from side to side, Brazen found nothing but an empty room. “They’re planning something, I know it.” Still glancing from side to side, he backed out of the room, meeting Cadence’s eyes before he disappeared.

When he was gone, Cadence heard Obsidian sigh, his eyes falling.

Stepping towards him, Cadence raised a hoof to place on one arm of his throne. “Isn’t that the same dragon you were talking with the other day? Why does he seem so, crazy?”

Obsidian sighed again, tilting his hung head to meet Cadence’s eyes. “He is not the most sane dragon, but he knows more about managing a kingdom than I could learn in all my years. I need him. He often comes up with crazy imaginings of plots however.”

“Well,” Cadence said, storing the king’s words away in her mind. “Why don’t we return to the topic of love?”

“Um.” Cadence felt Shining touch a hoof to her shoulder. Turning, she found his eyes full and quivering. “Can we get something to eat before we continue?”

Feeling her own stomach growl, Cadence looked to Obsidian, questioning him with her eyes.

He dipped his head, a slight smile on his lips. “It is never good to discuss matters on a empty stomach.”

“I think I could easily learn to eat like you ponies,” Obsidian announced after the final bite of his colossal raspberry pie had passed between his stained lips. “These sweet pies are far more satisfying than any meat ones I have eaten.” His pie dish, easily able to fit all four ponies, still contained enough crumbs to make another batch of pies for them.

Smiling, Cadence took another small nibble at her own pie, her muzzle still clean of the blackberries filling it. Flo lay curled up against her, the blue of berries barely visible against her sapphire scales. “They sure are tasty.” Taking another bite of her pie, she licked away the drip of juice that had caught on her coat before looking back up to Obsidian. “I’m glad you’re going to give this a try.”

“Yes.” Placing the massive, empty dish on the ground, Obsidian glanced at the throne beside him. “I have not even thought of such things in so many years. Where do I begin?”

“Well.” Cadence gazed around her, Shining lay to one side, his muzzle stained with the same red as Obsidian’s. Some distance behind them, Cloud and Skylight sat with their wings cuddled over each other, silently sharing words. “I don’t know much about this city, but where do you like to go for fun?”

“Fun?” Obsidian questioned, as if the word were new to him. “A king has no time for fun, I have had little self-enjoyment over the last decade. Spare time is little to none.”

Cadence’s head sunk slightly. “Well, we could always find something, or maybe I could ask Flo.” Her eyes shifted to the blue dragon snuggled up against her before returning to Obsidian “What was your favourite thing to do? When you did have free time.”

Gritting his teeth, Obsidian sucked air between them, shifting his focus out to the empty room before him. “I always enjoyed-” He paused, furrowing his brow. “No, it is not right for a king to do such silly things. My kingdom needs me to set the example.”

Feeling her lips light back up with a smile, Cadence lifted her head. “What is it? If it really is too shameful we’ll find something else.”

“I do not think it would be wise to reveal the regretful things of my past. What would my subjects think of me?”

“Nothing bad, I promise. Even if it is something to be ashamed of, none of us would share it.” Cadence swung her hoof around the room. “Whatever you say stays within these walls.”

“If you think so.” Obsidian glanced around one last time, making sure there was no one else to hear. “I used to enjoy, dancing.”

The word spread the smile on Cadence’s lips far wider than she thought was possible, before laughter broke through, filling the room with echos.

Obsidian frowned at the sound, his eyes lighting up with a tint of fear. “I knew it, my past is too juvenile to ever utter. I do not know if I can continue this folly.”

“No,” Cadence breathed, struggling to contain herself. “I wasn’t laughing because dancing is shameful, far from it. It’s just dancing is something even Celestia herself enjoys, why would you think it was shameful?”

“I, I,” Obsidian paused as Cadence held his gaze. “It is an act that is always met with laughter in the dragon culture. Something only hatchlings, dragonesses or those not sane practice.”

“But,” Gently, Cadence eased Flo’s head from her side to the floor before standing and stepping towards Obsidian. “Dancing is such a beautiful thing, why do dragons mock it?”

Sighing, Obsidian’s shoulders slumped. “In a species of warriors it is seen as weak. The few mad dragons I have seen dance during the past few years have been drowned in laughter.”

Spinning as she stepped, Cadence found herself circling Shining. “What about when you used to dance? Did they laugh then?”

A smile came to Obsidian’s lips, his eyes glazing over for a moment. “Some did, but it did not matter. I was dancing with her, the dragoness who gave me Ash, and died doing so. If only I still had her, she was everything to me.”

Studying his features, the memories held in his eyes, Cadence felt warmth blossoming in her chest, a twist of sadness in her stomach. I haven’t even thought about that. He’s lost two loves already, it must be so hard for him to think about finding another. Glancing backward, she found Shining’s sleepy form. Would I be able to if I lost Shining?

The thought stopped Cadence in her tracks, pinning her to the ground and her eyes to Shining. How could I even go on if I lost Shining? She felt the twist of sadness creeping up her neck and into her eyes, leaking out as a small drop.

“Princess? Are you still alright?”

Turning back to Obsidian, Cadence wiped away the moisture under her eyes with a hoof and forced a smile to her lips. “I’m fine, thank you. We were talking about dancing, right?”

Obsidian nodded, a smile on his lips as well. “I can see my sorrowful memories are bringing you down also. Why don’t we stop here, I will think more of this idea of yours, finding love again...” As his voice trailed off glossiness washed over his eyes once again, taking him back to days long past.

I hope those memories can convince him, Cadence thought as she pulled Shining to his hooves, the stallion wiping his bleary eyes.

“What’s happening?”

“I finished talking with Obsidian, so we’re going back to our room.” Swinging her body round, her lips opened to call Cloud and Skylight, but only empty air met her eyes. “They must have already gone up.” Shrugging, she cradled the still napping Flo in her blue glow before heading towards the door.

“Are you sure about this?” Cloud said, glancing back down the mountainous obsidian stairs. “I don’t know if it’s the right time yet.”

Skylight walked before him, her sky-blue hips swaying from side to side, tail of white flicking frantically back and forth over them. Looking back to him, she nodded, bottom lip clutched tightly between her teeth. “I can’t wait any longer.”

They had been cuddling inside their conjoint tent for many nights now, Cloud content to take it slowly, allowing her every touch to send storms of buzzing warmth throughout his body. Skylight wanted more however.

Each night her grasp pulled him closer, kisses lasted longer until Cloud thought their lips would never again separate. The tips of her wings and ends of her hoofs grew more daring, exploring every bit of his body, and prodding his to explores hers.

I wonder if we’re taking this too quickly? Cloud thought as he followed Skylight through the door to their room, his heart racing inside his chest. Tingling warmth flooded his body, the feeling of sweat forming underneath his coat one hard to ignore.

It was a thought that came to his mind most nights, after Skylight had fallen asleep in his forelegs. He could not deny his enjoyment of her touch, but often he found himself feeling out of his depth, the thought of going further almost too good.

Almost wrong. The words were pushed into the back of his mind as Skylight pulled him into their tent, stealing a long kiss from his lips. His body felt numb, as if he were no longer the one controlling it, but merely along for the ride.

Something this good must have a downside, Cloud continued to think in the only part of his mind still functioning. Skylight’s lips were still pressed into his as she pulled him down to their shared mattress, wrapping her wings around him.

He had always been taught that the extreme pleasures of life came with long lasting downsides, and this instinct still rested in the back of his mind as he felt his unbearably hard member pressing into Skylight’s ever so soft belly. With too many sweets came bad teeth, with too much food came extreme weight, and those that sipped rainbow.

A shiver passed through Cloud’s body at the memory of broken ponies in the alley, seeming more dead than alive.

“Are you alright?” Unknown to Cloud’s haze of a mind, Skylight had pulled her lips away from his, and was now staring up at him, concern in her eyes and voice.

Blinking rapidly, Cloud felt himself regain control of his body once more, the hardness of his shaft feeling strange beneath him. “I’m fine, I was just thinking , and I can’t find anything wrong with this.”

“Why would there?”

Realising how strange he was sounding, Cloud rolled his eyes into his head. “It’s just with anything that feels this good, there’s always a downside, right?”

Meeting his lips, Skylight took them in hers with a soft kiss, her smile pushing onto his muzzle. “You think too much. This is all good.” Taking his lips with hers again, she pulled him down towards her, wings moving down his back and playing with his tail.

Allowing himself the pleasure of the kiss, Cloud drank in the feeling and taste of her as she did the same, the back of his mind still working. When they broke apart, he spoke again. “What if you get pregnant?”

The words slowed Skylight’s constant touching and stroking to a stop, her eyes opening once more to look into his. “I haven’t told you this before, but, I can’t.”

Cloud’s features twisted in confusion. “What do you mean? I thought all mares could-”

The end of a blue wing on his lips silenced him, Skylight glancing to the side. “Can we talk about this later? All you need to know is I can’t.”

“But-”

Once again Cloud was quieted, but this time by Skylight’s lips, her hooves reaching underneath him to play with the throbbing length of muscle there. The burst of sensation drove all thought from Cloud’s mind, a flood of pleasure overcoming his limbs and causing them to move by themselves.

Cloud felt Skylight rolling, pushing him over so he was now the one underneath, her atop him with a giddy grin. The fur on her groin now pressed against his member, rubbing, teasing it. A little further and it was her warm lips pressing against it, their surface already moist with her juices.

“Are you ready?” Skylight whispered, locking Cloud’s lips with a kiss before he could even reply. Her hips slid down a little further, lips encapsulating the burning pink tip of his member, wetting it with her sweetness.

Connected to Cloud with both pairs of lips, Skylight pushed her hips down slightly, instantly moaning into his mouth as pain came with it. Is it supposed to be this painful? She thought, wincing as she pushed even further still.

Tearing his lips away from hers, Cloud looked up at her with concerned eyes. “Are you sure you’re okay? It sounds like it’s hurting you.”

The tip still barely inside, Skylight wiggled her hips, scrunching her eyes up at the tearing sensation that came with it. “I’m, fine,” She managed through gritted teeth, her heart and body knowing this was what she wanted, but her mind begging to stop.

“If you’re sure.” His shaft afire with all sorts of sensations, the tightness of Skylight, almost so much it was painful. The pinpricks of excitement that dotted over the rest of his body as well, the nearly irresistible urge to thrust himself upward. Yet Cloud managed to keep some hold over his mind, and carefully watch for her tells of pain.

Again Skylight tried to ease herself down, the pain now burning so bright it felt as if she would tear in two. This can’t be right. She felt a wetness coming to her eyes, a tightness swelling in her throat as she fell forward onto Cloud’s chest. “I can’t,” She cried, voice choked and breathy. “I want to so, so much, but I can’t.”

Her limbs felt numb, groin still crying out for pleasure through the now dull ache of pain. Is this what failure feels like? A sickness swirled in her gut, a knowing that no matter how hard she tried she wouldn’t be able to. It’s too painful.

Holding her close with his forelegs, Cloud stroked Skylight’s short mane, nuzzling her cheek with his muzzle. “It’s okay. There’s no need for you to rush. We’ve got our whole lives.”

Swallowing away the choking feeling in her throat, Skylight lifted her snout, eyes meeting Cloud’s. “But I want this now, so badly.” A shiver ran along her spine and up through her neck, causing her eyes to scrunch up and a breath to leave her lips.

Cloud smiled, still gently dragging a hoof down her neck. “Maybe this means you’re not ready yet, we’re not ready yet. I love you so much Skylight, I want this moment to be perfect, for both of us, not painful.”

“Isn’t it always painful?” Skylight questioned, eyes gazing past Cloud into the wall behind him. “That’s that the mares at the base said.”

“I don’t know much about these things, but I don’t think it’s supposed to be that painful.” Skylight’s tearful cries still echoing in his ears, Cloud winced. “Why don’t we ask Cadence about it, surely-”

The tip of a wing silenced Cloud, Skylight’s eyes lighting up with awareness as she glanced backward, pleased to find a still empty room. “No, we can’t let her or Shining know we’re doing this.”

“Skylight,” Cloud whispered gently once her wing had lifted from his lips. “I know you don’t like sharing this kind of thing with others, but,” His hoof moved from her mane downward, reaching the base of her wing, rubbing gently at the tense muscle there. “Is it so wrong to get a little bit of help with this?”

Skylight’s eyelids lowered as Cloud continued to massage her weak spot. “No, but it’s personal. I don’t want them knowing we’re, doing this, any more than I want to know what they’re doing.”

“I know that, but why not this one time we ask for some help?”

The sounds of laughter and hooves against stone filled the air before Skylight had time to answer, her free wing instantly snapping back and pulling the thin fabric door across the opening of their tent.

“Skylight? Cloud? Are you in here?” Cadence’s voice filled the air, the pronounced clops of her and Shining’s hooves and the softer clicks of Flo’s claws beside her.

Still pressed against each other in their tent, Cloud and Skylight stared intently at each other, both unsure whether they should speak. The steps grew closer and closer, the trio clearly heading for their tent. Eventually Cloud moved his lips.

“We’re here.”

The sound of movement halted instantly, a soft murmuring filling the air, indiscernible to Cloud and Skylight.

Cadence’s voice filled the air again, a mixture of joy and laughter filling it. “Do you want us come back later? I’m sure Flo can find something for us to do.”

Silence followed, Cloud conscious of how loud his breathing seemed, how even a whisper from him would be heard by the others in the room. The sound of Skylight’s voice filling the air flooded his mind with relief.

“No. We were napping.” She called back, deception barely noticeable in her words. “Today’s flight was tiring.” Slowly, she climbed off of Cloud, turning before pulling the tent door aside and stepping out onto the obsidian floor.

Cadence’s muzzle was pulled tight with a grin, Shining’s holder a softer smile. Glancing between Skylight and the two, Flo’s features held a frown. “What’s so funny?”

Turning to the dragon, Cadence reached out a hoof to stroke her neck. “Don’t worry about it Flo, this is something you’ll discover when you’re older.”

When Cadence looked back up, Cloud had stepped out of the tent as well and was standing beside Skylight, a tint of red warming both ponies’ cheeks.

“Well, how was the nap?” Cadence said, barely able to contain the laughter in her chest. “Did we wake you halfway through or were you able to have a sound sleep?”

Skylight’s eyes drifted of the the hazy window beside them as he cheeks blazed even brighter. Shifting on the spot, Cloud glanced at her before looking back to Cadence and Shining. “We were only just falling asleep.”

“Oh,” Cadence took a step backward, meeting Shining’s eyes. “We’re sorry. I hope we didn’t ruin something you had planned.”

“No, there was a pro-” The touch of Skylight’s wing against his side stopped Cloud in his tracks, his mind scrambling for something else to say. “I, we’d rather not talk about it.”

Still frantically flicking her eyes back and forth between both pairs of ponies, Flo lifted Cadence’s hoof from her head. “What is going on?”

Looking back down to the sapphire blue dragon, Cadence felt her grin softening into a smile. “I said not to worry Flo. It’s something personal that they don’t want to talk about, so let’s move onto something else.” Lifting her eyes, she gazed at Cloud and Skylight. “Why don’t we play some cards to take your minds off things?”

The afternoon passed by quickly as myriad of griffons, dragons, Everfree monsters and changelings battled against each other. Castles were pulled down by strangling vines, blasted to pieces with fiery shots from the mouths of dragons and blown away by great sandstorms.

Flo sat in the middle of it all, eyes alight with the imaginary clashes of claws and wings, vines and hooves. The sky outside darkened and the stress in Skylight’s mind washed away as she lost herself in the competition.

“Is it my turn?” Skylight questioned, looking at Cadence as she eyed each of her cards carefully. Eventually the alicorn nodded.

“Well, there’s nothing I can do. Why don’t you finish this?”

The small smile on Skylight's lips widened until the glint of her teeth could be seen. “I attack you with my Vine Beast.” She pushed the card forwards, along with the weighty pile of counters that had accumulated upon it. “We win.”

Stretching and yawning. Shining gazed outside as Skylight observed her victory, counting all the creatures she had slain. “I think that’ll be the last one,” He said, the growl of his stomach echoing his words. “I’m getting hungry.”

Skylight opened her muzzle to protest, but Cloud spoke first, his hooves packing away the cards before him. “I think that would be the best idea. My stomach’s feels like it’s eating itself.”

Nodding, Cadence murmured her agreement, “Mmhmm.” The deck of griffons she had been using already neatly stacked in front of her.

Huffing, Skylight shuffled her own cards into a pile before handing it to Cloud. “Pies again?” The frown on her lips twisted into a smile.

“I don’t think I’ll ever get sick of those.”

Lying on his side, Shining licked at the sweet red juice that stained his muzzle, staring dreamily at the empty pie dish that rested before him. Beside him lay Cadence, her lips clean of any evidence that she had shared his pie.

“Neither,” Skylight agreed, her and Cloud resting a short distance away from the other couple. A yawn broke her lips, the blue stain around them looking more like part of her coat than berry juice.

The other three ponies echoed the yawn, a chuckle leaving Skylight’s lips as she watched them. “Time to sleep?”

“I think so,” Cadence said, her voice distorted by the yawn. “Hopefully we don’t wake up to another scream tomorrow.” A smile touched her lips as she met Skylight’s eyes, the pegasus smiling back.

“I wouldn’t mind, saving that dragon was fun.”

“Really?” Cadence’s features twisted in surprise, the near death moments from their rescue filling her thoughts. “We almost died in there.”

The smile on Skylight’s muzzle spread even further. “That’s part of the fun.” Another yawn washed her grin away, eyes closing and wings shifting as the breath left her lips.

Beside her Cloud lifted his wing from her back before folding it away. “I think we should head to bed now.” Gently, he shifted out from behind Skylight, both of them rising together. “Good night.”

“You too,” Cadence called after them as the pair turned and headed towards their tent, the soft murmuring of their fading voices barely reaching her ears.

Turning back to Shining, she found his eyelids half-closed, head resting on his hooves. Smiling to herself, she prodded him awake with her own hoof. “Can you set up the mattress? I’m going to say goodnight to Flo.”

Another yawn left Shining’s lips as he nodded, lighting his horn. The ringing echoed behind Cadence as she stepped towards the balcony door, the cool nip of the night air causing her to shiver.

“Flo?” She whispered as she stepped out onto the grey stone, her eyes finding the a dull curl of sapphire scales beside the railing.

“Princess?” The scales shifted, a pair of blue gems greeting Cadence in the darkness. “Is something wrong?”

“No,” Stopping beside the dragon, she lowered her muzzle and kissed the top of Flo’s head. “I just came out to say good night.”

A smile spread across Flo’s lips as she lifted her snout and nuzzled Cadence. “Thank you princess. I know I’ll sleep good now.” Lowering her head, Flo curled back into herself, tail touching cheek. “You have a good night too princess.”

Feeling warmth fill her chest, Cadence petted Flo’s head before turning and heading back inside.

Shining had conjured a glowing mattress beneath him and was now curled up in the same way Flo was, eyes closed tight and back shifting with each breath. Feeling the weight of sleep suddenly overcome her limbs, Cadence stumbled towards the mattress, meaning to sink into its gentle embrace.

“Cadence.”

A voice sounded from beside her, an irritation to her tired mind. Barely thinking, Cadence ignored it and slid across the mattress towards Shining, wanting nothing more than to-

“Cadence? Can we talk?”

There it was again, that annoyance, that voice. However this time it penetrated the wall of her subconscious and woke her already asleep mind. Cloud? Forcing open her eyes, Cadence swung her head around and found the white pegasus standing some distance away.

“Did something happen?” She asked. What would be so important that it couldn’t wait till morning?

“No.” Cloud glanced back at the conjoined tent he and Skylight shared. “I want to talk about, uh.” One of his hooves pawed at the black stone below, his eyes flitting around the room. “About, uh, something that Skylight and I were doing.”

The tone of Cloud’s voice cleared the mist of sleep from Cadence’s mind, a smile lighting up her lips. “Well I already knew what you were doing, you don’t have to tell me about the details, it’s something between just you and Skylight.”

Cloud shook his head. “I didn’t want to talk about that exactly, well I did, but not just that you see.” Wary of his babbling, Cloud looked to Shining, a sigh of relief escaping his lips when he saw the unicorn was still asleep. “Skylight found it painful.”

“Oh,” Painful? The word lifted Cadence’s head, her body feeling light once more, unaware of sleep. “What exactly was painful? You may have been doing something wrong.”

“Uh, when she,” Cloud gritted his teeth, and unfolded his wings from his sides, gesturing crudely with them. “Uh, tried to put, it, in. I could hear her pain, she was almost crying, it was horrible.”

Nodding along to Cloud’s words, Cadence painted the scene in her mind. “Well there always will be some pain, especially if you two aren’t accustomed to each other yet. You just need to take it as slowly as you can, and let her ease herself on.”

“I, we, she did that, Skylight was doing it all herself, but it still hurt for her. Is there something else that could be wrong?”

“Well,” Cadence rolled her eyes into her head, thinking back through of her experiences with Shining. There had been times when she had been aching afterwards, Shining’s thrusts so frenzied they almost hurt, but never had it been so painful when mounting him. Eventually she sighed. “I don’t know of anything. I’ve never experience that kind of pain before. Hmmm, were you rushing?”

Thinking back to the hazy, sensation driven experience, Cloud nodded. “A little. She wanted to start as soon as she could it seemed.”

“Ahh, that could be it. Maybe she was too tense and that tightened her to the point that nothing could enter. Why don’t you try starting on her with your mouth tomorrow? Try to relax her before you move onto the next stage.”

“Tomorrow?”

Cadence’s smile grew into a grin as she winked. “I’ll make sure to give you two some time alone. Now why don’t you go back to bed? I’m quite tired my-” A yawn stopped Cadence from finishing, Cloud nodding before stepping away.

As she snuggled back into Shining’s side, Cadence heard the hoofsteps of Cloud fading away. The soft warmth of pride filled her chest, a sleepy smile on her lips. I’m so proud of those two.

Time is Change

“Ahhh!”

A scream pierced the dim dawn sky, a cry of terror and loss that echoed throughout Rockholm. The desperate sound came in through the high balcony window of the city’s palace, reaching the sleeping ears of Cadence.

Still curled up beside Shining, she shifted her body slightly, the sound doing little to stir her from the dark clutches of sleep.

“Princess.”

The voice flowed right into Cadence’s ear as a whisper, accompanied by a pair of claws on her side, shaking her awake.

“Princess, wake up. The dragons need help.”

Slowly but surely, the constant movement brought light into the deep nothing of Cadence’s sleeping mind. Her body registered the feel of scales against her coat, the warmth of a voice in her ear. Cracking open her eyes, she found the sapphire blue body of Flo hunched over her.

“Flo?” Cadence’s jaw felt slow and sticky as she spoke, as if her mouth were full of tree sap. Her eyelids were sore, like they had been pried open against their will.

“Princess, you’re awake!” Springing up from the mattress, Flo grasped at one of Cadence’s forelegs, pulling her towards the edge. “Come on, you’re the only one who will help.”

Mind still hazy with the fuzziness of dreams, unsure of exactly where she was, Cadence gently pulled her hoof from Flo’s grasp. “First, what time is it? It looks like it’s still night outside.”

“That’s because it is.” Leaping away from Cadence’s side, Flo dashed towards the door before glancing back. “Some dragon just screamed. It sounded like Ember scared them.”

Concern creased Cadence’s brow as the memories of the previous day flooded back into her mind. Oh no, please tell me he didn’t take another. Energy filled her limbs, giving her the strength to stand, kiss Shining on the cheek, before following Flo.

The stars greeted Cadence as she stepped out onto the balcony, some had faded away in the lightening dawn, but many still remained, reminding her of how tired she still was. “Are you sure you heard a scream Flo? Maybe you were just dreaming?”

“I wasn’t dreaming.” Pointing with a talon, Flo directed Cadence’s eyes to one of the few sky reaching tower that rose above Rockholm. “It came from over there, The Topaz Tower.”

“I heard it too.”

Turning, Cadence found the voice belonged to Skylight, the pegasus stepping towards them.

“It was loud enough to wake you up?”

Skylight smiled at Cadence’s question. “Military training makes you a light sleeper.” Glancing backward, her smile grew. “It didn’t change Cloud though.”

“So are you two going to help them again?” Flo looked at both ponies with wide eyes, a grin spread across her muzzle. “And this time you’ll beat Ember so bad he never does it again.”

“Well, maybe not the second bit, but,” Cadence met Skylight’s eyes. “Do you want to rescue another hatchling?”

Breathing deeply, Skylight extended her wings, moving her forelegs back and forth and twisting her neck. “I’m always in for action. Let me warm up first though.”

Watching her, Cadence noticed the stiffness in her own limbs. Lifting one of her forelegs, she felt a pulling pain for a moment, before it faded, the warm flow of energy replacing it. She lifted another, relishing the feeling.

“Okay, get on.” Now crouched low against the grey stone of the balcony, Skylight motioned towards her back with a wing, white tail flicking from side to side.

Another scream rang through the city as Cadence mounted Skylight, drawing all eyes towards The Topaz Tower. He wouldn’t have taken another one, would he? Cadence thought while speaking, “I’m ready, let’s go.”

As they launched into the air, Cadence felt her body instinctively tense, ready for the force of flight. Instead Cadence found that her stomach was almost comfortable, the wind rushing through her mane seeming like a gentle breeze compared to the previous day. Skylight’s still tired, She realized.

The thought of sleep made the aches of sleep in Cadence’s limbs become known to her once more. The rush of adrenaline covered it for the most part, but if she concentrated on the aches, she could feel them, like there were tears in her body stitched half-shut.

Ahead of the The Topaz Tower grew and grew until it dominated the sky. Even in the dim dawn light Cadence could spot the gem which it was named for, orange-yellow fringing the balcony railing and a stripe of the same color down the side.

Another scream sounded from below them, pulling Cadence’s gaze down just in time to spy a dragon of bright crimson scales leap into the air and fly toward the city wall. Underneath her she felt Skylight’s muscles work, sending them speeding after the dim shape. The familiar feeling of pulling overcame Cadence’s body, forcing her eyelids closed.

Pressing her muzzle into Skylight’s ear, Cadence whispered. “Let him go for now, we already know where he’ll be.” She felt the body underneath her slow before rumbling with speech.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, it’d be better to see what was taken first, we might need to ask Cloud to help.”

Circling around, Skylight headed back for The Topaz Tower, descending into the streets that surrounded it.

Despite the time, the area was swarming with dragons. The choking sound of sobs and soft whispering filled the air alongside rough cursing. Yet all voices joined as one to echo the dragon who first spotted Cadence and Skylight.

“The princess. Skylight.”

Feeling a smile spreading across her lips, Cadence pushed her muzzle back into Skylight’s ear. “Well it sounds like you have some fans.” She felt the pegasus chuckle as they landed.

“As long as they don’t swarm me like they do you.”

The moment they landed a pair of dragons stepped forth from the crowd, Cadence able to make out the differing shades of blue that were their scales in the dim light.

“Please princess,” One said, the baritone of his voice marking him as the father. “You must help us, our only son has been stolen from us. Will you help return him as you did the other hatchling?”

Nodding, Cadence smiled. “We’ll try our best.”

Another pair stepped forward, one dressed in ruby scales, the other emeralds. “Will you rescue our niece as well?” This time the dragoness spoke, tears obvious in her voice. “She’s the closest thing we’ve ever had to a hatchling of our own.”

Cadence felt her smile growing wider and heart heavier. Before we came all of these foals would have been gone forever, no one to save them. “Of course we’ll rescue them.”

The pair nodded, stepping away with small smiles on their tear stained muzzles. As they melted away into the colors of the crowd another dragon stepped forth, this one’s scales the fiery orange of molten rock.

“Please, my son was taken also. Will you bring him back.”

“I will bring back any of your young ones that were stolen,” Cadence promised, her words lifting the lips of the dragon before her into a smile.

“I wish you a safe journey.”

Nodding thanks to him, Cadence moved her eyes across the rest of the crowd. “Is there anyone else who was stolen?” When no answer came, she waited a moment before speaking again. “Then we will be leaving. I hope we can bring your foals back to you soon.”

Her words sent a confused murmuring through the crowd, every dragon looking around for an answer. Eventually one spoke up. “Princess, what do you mean by foals?”

“Oh, sorry.” Cadence felt a kiss of warmth coming to her cheeks, her grin so wide she thought it would spit her muzzle in two. “I meant hatchlings. Foals are young ponies.”

Satisfied, the crowd cheered for her as she mounted Skylight, the encouraging noise following the two as they lifted into the sky and headed for the city walls.

“We’ve got to be careful this time,” Cadence whispered to Skylight. “He’ll expect us to be coming, so I’m sure there’ll be traps of some kind.”

Without meeting her eye, Skylight nodded, gaze fixated on the soft yellow glow that grew and shrank on the cave wall ahead. “There’ll be more dragons to protect also.”

“Yes, that’s why we have to be extremely careful, I don’t want any of them getting hurt.” Silence fell over the already almost noiseless room, only the sound of bubbling and their soft breathing entertaining their ears.

Wordlessly, Skylight stepped forward, Cadence following her. The two crept towards the corner, eyes scanning ahead for anything that would make a sound, ears pricked up, listening for any sign of Ember.

Why is it so quiet? Cadence thought as they continued, wincing every time her hoof scraped over a rock, or whenever a breath seemed louder than ordinary. There’s no way Ember could keep this many hatchlings quiet. An image flashed through her mind, causing her to stop in her tracks.

No, it couldn’t be. She tried to push the thought from her mind, but it remained. The picture of three young bodies scattered across the stone floor, their eyes closed, no breath lifting their chests. All dead. A tightness overcame her throat, her eyes flooding with tears, blurring her vision.

Ahead of Cadence, Skylight was still moving, unaware of Cadence’s stop until a sharp breath rang through the tunnel. Turning, she found the alicorn sitting, staring at the shadowy ground, body shivering as drops fell from the end of her muzzle into the dust.

“Cadence?” Concern made Skylight forgetful of the situation they were in, her voice ringing out full and loud. Wincing at the sound, she glanced backward before stepping towards Cadence, wing outstretched. “What’s wrong?”

The warmth of a wing closing over her back, Cadence couldn’t help but smile at herself, a shaky giggle coming from her lips. “Nothing, I’m just thinking too much.” Wiping the tears from under her eye, she sniffed noisily. “Ember knows we’re here for sure now.”

“Yes.” Lifting her eyes, Skylight gazed at the tunnel corner with confusion. “Let me talk to him.”

Following the pegasus with her eyes, Cadence watched her disappear round the corner, expecting a roar to follow soon after, but nothing came. No sound but the continued bubbling of lava. “Skylight?” She called out, rising to her hooves and walking after her.

“Boo!”

The moment Cadence stepped round the corner Skylight jumped out at her, instinctively making her fall backward onto her haunches, a cry escaping her lips. When she realised it was Skylight who had surprised her, a smile came to her muzzle, followed by a giggle. “Oh Skylight, you had me worrying you were gone.”

Turning back to the stream of lava, Skylight shook her head. “No way I could. There’s no one here.”

Gazing around the cave as well, Cadence found she was right. There were no lifeless bodies of hatchlings as she had imagined, no Ember waiting to eat her up, just stone and the hole his head had been trapped in the previous day. Splintered and torn open.

“How did he escape?” Skylight said, pointing the tip of her wing at the hole. “He was trapped tight in there.”

“Well,” Cadence felt a guilty smile touching her lips, eyes lowering to the ground. “I helped him.”

“What?” Skylight swung around, a touch of annoyance in her eyes, wings ruffling, flaring outward. “Why?”

“I couldn’t just leave him there.” Thinking back, Cadence pulled the image of Ember’s body into her mind. Struggling impossibly against the wall to free himself. “He would have died of hunger, or thirst. It would have been torture.”

Taking a deep breath, Skylight tucked her wings away before sitting on the stone below, facing Cadence. “I know you want to change him, but if he wasn’t here none of this would have happened. Some aren’t worth the effort.”

“No,” Cadence whispered to herself, half-convinced by what Skylight had said, half wanting to rebuke her. Instead she chose another path. “What about Cloud? When we first met you said he was terrible, just one of the rest. Was he worth the effort.”

Not answering for a moment, Skylight leant backward, wings supporting her as she sighed at the roof. “You’ve said this before, he’s said this before, but I told you, it’s different.”

“How?”

“How?” Pushing herself back into sitting position, Skylight met Cadence’s eyes with passion. “When I met Cloud was he threatening to kill ponies? Was he spreading fear throughout a whole city? Did he almost bite your head off when he first met you?”

Silence fell over the two as the echos of Skylight’s words dropped away, her heavy panting joining the bubbling lava to fill the room with soft sound. Still staring into Skylight’s eyes, Cadence found a fire there.

She held the stare for what seemed like an eternity, watching the fire fade away into a small spark as Skylight dropped her gaze.

“Sorry for yelling, but, if Ember wasn’t here, wouldn't the world be better?”

Reaching out a hoof, Cadence gently lifted Skylight’s chin till their eyes met once more. “It’s alright. I know how much this means to you. It means just as much to me.” Smiling, she watched as her smile spread to the pegasus. “Maybe you’re right, maybe we would be better off, but I can’t bare to watch a frightened foal be killed.”

Confusion creased Skylight’s brow,” What do you mean?”

“I’m talking about Ember. Have you ever looked into his eyes?” Cadence locked eyes with Skylight as she spoke, the pegasus’s blue pair staring right back. “If you do you’ll see a young dragon still terrified of this world, so he uses anger to hide his fear.”

Skylight’s features shifted as Cadence’s words sank in, the creases on her brow softening, lips forming a small O. “Just like I did, and still do.”

“Well, you weren’t that bad, but in a way, yes.” Cadence’s hoof moved down Skylight’s neck and over her withers, brushing back the few locks of her short mane that rested there. “And what changed that?”

“Cloud.” A smile tugged at Skylight’s lips as she spoke his name, eyes lighting up with memories. “Love can change Ember.”

Nodding, Cadence felt her smile overflowing her lips, pulling so tight her cheeks hurt. A touch of wetness forming under her eyes as she pulled Skylight into a hug. “Yes, Im so glad you realised it. I’ve seen it happen in you two, so why can’t love change everyone for the better?”

Caught off guard by the contact at first, Skylight’s body tensed up, instinctively wanting to push Cadence away. Instead she decided to return the hug, gingerly wrapping her wings over Cadence’s back.

The two rested in each other’s embraces for some time, Cadence feeling the warmth of joy filling her body and overflowing out as tears. Wiping away the wetness from her snout, she drew away from Skylight, the glistening streams still visible on her cheeks.

“Why are you crying?” Skylight questioned, confusion returning to her features once more.

“Because I’m so happy. Now we can truly work together, two ponies with one goal.” Looking up, Cadence gasped, as if realising for the first time they were in a cave. “Speaking of that, we need to find those hatchlings.”

Standing alongside Cadence, Skylight nodded, the two of them walking back through the cave towards the pinprick of light at the end.

“Where would he be?” Skylight asked as they were walking, her mind searching the mental images she had of the surrounding mountains. “In another cave?”

“Maybe, but which one?” The mountainscape the surrounded Rockholm filled Cadence’s mind also, going on and on until the horizon. “We wouldn’t be able to search every cave today. It would take weeks, maybe longer. Especially if they’re as deep as this.” Lifting her hoof into the air, she made a sweeping gesture, drawing Skylight’s eyes from one end of the cave to the other.

“We can try.” The dim blue glow of Cadence’s horn lit up Skylight’s smile.

“We can, can’t we.”

The two walked in silence till daylight met their coats, the rising sun catching their eyes and forcing them to squint. Spreading her wings, Cadence caught a look from Skylight.

“Aren’t you going to ride me?” The pegasus questioned.

Cadence shook her head in response. “No, if we’re going to be flying all day I’d rather not be a burden to you.” A gasp punctuated Cadence words, the previous day’s flight leaving her wings tense and sore.

Raising her brow, Skylight smirked at Cadence. “You need rest, let me carry you.”

Sighing, Cadence begrudgingly closed her aching wings before climbing atop Skylight. “Oh, if we’re going to spend the whole day out here we should go tell Shining and Cloud first.”

The flight back over Rockholm filled Cadence’s stomach with sickness, her eyes wandering over the buildings that surrounded The Topaz Tower. What if we can’t find their fillies and colts? I don’t even know what I’d say to them.

Her train of thought was quickly broken by Skylight landing and Shining’s voice calling to her. “Cadence!”

He ran to her, a foreleg helping her from Skylight’s back. “What happened? Were any hatchlings stolen? Did you find them?”

Opening her lips, Cadence found herself lost for words, unsure of how to word the news. Flo’s face peeked out from behind Shining, a wide grin on her lips.

“Did you beat Ember up again?”

“Well, no, it didn’t actually turn out as planned.” Oh, how do I say this.

“We didn’t find Ember,” Skylight finished for her, allowing the breath Cadence held in her chest be free.

Concern instantly worked itself into Shining’s features, his brow furrowing and eyes questioning. “Why, I thought you found his cave?”

“We did, but,” Looking over Shining’s shoulder, Cadence met Skylight’s eyes, almost obscured by Cloud’s mane as he hugged her tight. “He wasn’t there, so we have no idea where he is.”

A gasp escaped Flo’s lips as she stepped back from Shining and Cadence. “Then why aren’t you out looking? The bad dragon’s not going to beat himself up.”

Smiling at Flo’s statement, Cadene extended one of her sore wings, gritting her teeth as she patted the dragon’s head. “That’s why we came back here, to get some more help.” She felt Shining groan in her arms as Cloud’s wings flared out slightly.

“We’re going to hunt Ember down?” He questioned. “All four of us?”

Skylight nodded. “That’s the plan.”

Pulling away from Cadence’s grasp, Shining glanced back at the pegasus pair. “Can we have breakfast first? I’m starving.”

The growl of a stomach filled the air, all eyes looking to Cadence, causing her to smile. “Well, that’s a yes. We should also pack something for lunch, I don’t know how long we may be out there searching.”

Fastening the flap of her saddlebag with her magic, Cadence glanced up at Shining, his lips still dotted with sign of his last meal. Stepping towards him, she licked away the worst of it, giggling. “You never seem to eat cleanly, do you.”

Shining pouted, eyes full of humour. “I could if I wanted, I just can’t control how quickly my horn pushes the pie inside.”

Behind him Skylight and Cloud stood on the balcony, warming their wings up with long slow strokes, watching the sky above. Flo stood at the edge of the balcony, eyeing Cloud’s massive wings with awe.

“Are you ready to leave?” Cadence called at the couple as she dropped the bags over her withers, shifting her wings until they were comfortable.

Looking back to them, Skylight nodded, folding her wings away before lowering her body towards the ground. “You’re the one we’re waiting for.”

Stepping out onto the balcony, Cadence met Flo’s eyes. “Will you be alright here by yourself? You know where the food is right?”

A grin spread Flo’s blue muzzle wide, showing the bright white teeth behind. “Yes. When you find Ember make sure to beat him up a little extra for me.”

Reaching out with a hoof, Cadence touched it to the underside of Flo’s muzzle, rubbing gently. “Flo, you know I don’t want to injure him, I just want to talk with Ember.” Flo’s grin twisted into a pout as Cadence climbed onto Skylight, Shining tentatively mounting Cloud in the corner of her eye.

“Can we go slowly?” Shining questioned as Skylight and Cloud were readying their wings for take off. His teeth were gritted, forelegs wrapped as tightly around Cloud’s neck as he could without choking the pegasus. “I want to keep my stomach inside me.”

Looking sideways, Cloud met Skylight’s eyes. “I guess we could, we have all day and it’s not a long flight.”

A smile turned up the corners of Skylight’s lips as she glanced into the sky before looking back to Cloud. “Race you.”

The words barely reached Cadence’s ears before she could feel the body underneath her leaping into the air. The now horribly familiar feeling of her insides being torn out hit her, causing her forelegs to close tight around Skylight’s shoulders.

Behind her, Cadence heard the thumping beats of Cloud’s wings chasing them, and catching quickly. Glancing backward, she realised her eyelids were shut tight, the tearing claws of wind against her face and mane the cause.

Cadence opened one of her eyes slightly, just enough to see the image of Shining clutching to Cloud’s back the same way she was. The monstrous wings of Cloud had him closing in, only a few more beats until he was side by side with Skylight.

“You know you can’t win.” Cadence’s ears barely caught Cloud’s words before they were torn away by the wind, but the change in Skylight’s flight was noticeable. The two pegasi slowed down until Cadence felt her stomach settling, the sound of wind rushing past no longer deafening.

Thank you Cloud, She thought, opening her eyes to see they were slowly soaring above the city, dodging between the tallest towers.

The mountain range met them sooner than Cadence had expected, one moment it seemed a day’s walk away, the next right before her eyes. They looped between the peaks for a few moments, searching for holes in the mountains to land inside.

Leaning forward, Cadence pressed her muzzle close to Skylight’s ear, speaking softly. “What about that one?” Her hoof pointed out a pinprick of black below, barely visible in the side of the mountain.

She felt Skylight shake her head. “It’s too small, I’ll show you.” A tilt of her blue wings and they were plummeting downward, the pinprick of black growing larger and larger until it was almost the size of Cadences head. “See, too small.”

Beating her wings, Skylight lifted herself back up to meet Cloud with ease, as if the weight of both her and Cadence’s bodies was nothing. “Found anything?” She called once they were within earshot of the white pegasus.

Cloud shook his head. “There’s a lot of caves down there, but the biggest ones are only enough to fit a pony or two. Nothing that Ember could hide inside.”

The two continued, circling around each mountain slowly, all eyes searching for a hole large enough to fit a dragon of monstrous size.

After what seemed like hours Cloud called out, “I think I’ve found one!”

Cadence felt her stomach tighten as Skylight’s wings became like those of a hummingbird, rocketing them towards the white pegasus. Below was a sizable circle of black, its edges jagged and a small lip peeking out from it.

Circling downwards, Cadence watched as the hoof-sized hole became a cavern, the mouth of a great beast lying open, waiting for its prey to step inside.

“This could be it,” Skylight announced as she landed, folding her wings away before Cadence dismounted.

Staring into the shadowy entrance, Cadence nodded. “This one’s bigger than the last cave Ember made home.” She felt the grasp of legs take her from the side, Shining’s muzzle burrowing into her neck.

Giggling, Cadence twisted her head to return the contact. “You still haven't gotten over your fear of flying have you?”

Shining lifted his head out of her neck, glancing back at Cloud and Skylight as they smiled at each other. “Not with those two flying so fast my breakfast’s trying to escape.”

Another giggle left Cadence’s lips. “Well at least I know how you feel now. I’d be afraid too if that was all my flying experience.”

“Are you two coming or not?” Skylight’s voice came from the cave entrance, the hint of uncertainty in it.

Breaking apart, Shining and Cadence trotted toward the other couple, standing on the edge of the cave’s shadow. Meeting Skylight’s eye, Shining grinned. “What are you waiting for, go right ahead.”

“We’re waiting for some light,” Skylight huffed, frowning back at Shining.

Taking a deep breath, Shining sparked life into his horn, casting a cone of blue light down the length of the cave. “Go on, it’s almost sunny in there.”

Skylight took a tentative step forward, eyes gazing up at the still shadowy roof that soared high above her.

“Shining, you know Skylight’s not very comfortable with caves,” Cadence said before Skylight could make another step. “We’ll lead the way.”

A small smile met Skylight’s lips as Cadence stepped before her and Cloud, horn lit up with blue. “Thank you Cadence.” The words came softly from her lips, so quiet no one but Cloud heard them.

Dashing ahead, Shining caught up with Cadence, walking alongside her. “So how deep do you think this cave will go?” Behind them the hoofsteps of the pegasus pair followed, indiscernible murmurings passing between them.

“Well, I don’t know.” Cadence shut off her horn before squinting at the darkness ahead of them. “I can’t see any light ahead of us, so it could be a long, long way, but hopefully it’s no longer than Ember’s previous hiding place.”

“At least it means less flying.”

As they continued little but the sounds of hooves against stone and the ringing of Cadence’s horn filled the air. Cloud and Skylight whispering between themselves every so often, words unknown to Cadence and Shining.

Shining spent most of the walk glancing up at the cave’s roof, listening closely to the changing tones of their echoing steps. “I think the cave’s getting smaller,” He said after some time, lighting his horn and looking back at the roof behind them to confirm his suspicions.

“Don’t say that,” Skylight growled, her wings twitching at her sides.

“I’m not joking, look.” Shining pointed out the sloping roof behind them with a hoof before swinging his horn around and lighting up the roof ahead. “The roof’s getting lower and lower.”

A shiver ran through Skylight’s body as she stared up at the jagged rock above. “We should leave then, it’s going to be a dead end.”

“No,” Cadence turned to face Skylight, the bright light of her horn blinding the pegasus. “Oh, sorry.” Dimming her horn, she continued. “Even if this is a dead end, we have to go all the way to the end. Those foals could be down there and if we give up now we’ll never know.”

Turning back around, Cadence lit her horn brighter than it had been before and returned to walking, the others following soon afterwards.

As Shining had predicted the cave’s roof continued to lower, the walls on either side of them creeping closer and closer as well.

There’s no way Ember could have fit down here, Cadence realised after a while, the roof within touching distance for her wings. Yet she continued walking, the want to save the hatchlings driving her.

“We should turn back,” Skylight said a few moments later, the sound of her wings brushing against the stone above filling the air.

Sighing, Cadence reluctantly turned to face the pegasus. “You’re right. There’s no way Ember could’ve fit down here, although I can’t help but think,” She glanced back into the tightening cave behind. “What if those hatchlings are down there, what if we’re leaving them all alone?”

A hoof crept over Cadence’s withers, drawing her eyes to Shining as he came up beside her, squeezing her close. “I know you might think that Cadence, but it’s impossible, you said it yourself.” He gestured with a foreleg, sweeping it around the cave. “Ember could never fit in here.”

“So we’re going back?” Skylight’s voice was filled with joy as she spun on the spot, running towards the spot of blue light in the distance without waiting for an answer.

Cadence heard Cloud chuckle as he slowly stepped after her, “Maybe one day I can help her overcome her fear of caves like you two helped me.”

When they stepped back out into the light of day the sound of wings on wind greeted them, Skylight looping through the sky above the cave entrance. Spotting them, she came in to land with a thud, a grin wide on her muzzle. “Ready for more flying Shining?”

Cadence heard Shining swallow hard as he looked to Cloud, already crouched, waiting for him to mount. “Maybe we could stop for a snack? I’m feeling hungry.”

Still feeling the weight of breakfast in her stomach, Cadence shook her head as she stepped towards Skylight. “Come on Shining, it isn’t that scary,” She said aloud, the uneasiness welling up in her throat and thoughts filling her head telling a different story. I’ve got to set an example for him, show him there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Despite her encouraging thoughts, Cadence still found herself clinging on tight as she mounted Skylight, her whole body tensing, preparing for the rush of air.

“I know you’re afraid also,” She head Skylight whisper, the pegasus shooting a smile back at her. “But relax. Let your body flow with the wind, it’ll feel like you’re flying yourself.”

Cadence felt her muscles loosing a little at the advice, her lungs filling with deep breaths, attempting to calm.

“Are you ready?” Skylight called to Cloud, waiting for him to nod back before speaking again. “Let’s go.” Her legs extended at the words, shooting both mares into the air and catching the wind underneath her wings.

The pulling sensation filled Cadence’s gut, causing the grip of her forelegs to tighten. Just relax, She thought, breathing as evenly as she could from the river of air rushing past her lips. Slowly, she allowed her hold to loosen, and was surprised to find she wasn’t torn from Skylight’s back, but instead seemed to stick to the pegasus. Like I’m flying myself.

Above them the sun gradually rose as they continued their search for Ember’s potential hiding place. Crossing mountain after mountain off the list as they inspect each one closely. By noon they had checked a quarter of the range around Rockholm, finding many and more dead end caves, and even one that went straight through a mountain.

“Can we please have lunch after this one?” Shining pleaded as the four were nearing the exit of another cave, this one ending quickly, a heap of fallen rocks blocking their path after turning one corner.

Felling a niggling in her own stomach, Cadence nodded. “Well, it is around midday. Skylight, Cloud, are you two hungry?” Ahead of her Skylight stopped, turning to Cloud for an answer.

His mind far away from thought of food or drink, Cloud pushed the heroic fantasies from his head and thought of his stomach. “I guess now is as good a time as ever.”

Daylight met them after a dozen more steps, Cadence magically pulling the saddlebags from her withers as Shining stood beside her, eagerly waiting. At the edge of the rocky lips they rested upon, Skylight stood gazing out at the numerous mountains they had yet to search, her wings twitching as she thought of all the possible caves that could twist through their insides.

Turning back to the other three, she stepped towards them, voicing her thoughts aloud. “What if Ember’s not in a cave?”

Looking up from the bag she was unpacking, Cadence cocked her head at Skylight. “Even if he isn’t, where else do we search? This is the best idea we have.”

Skylight sat down beside Cloud, facing Shining and Cadence across the small rocky area they shared. “It’s too slow. We’ve spent half a day searching already and there isn’t a sign of Ember.”

“I know,” Cadence nodded. “I’m just as worried about those foals, I mean hatchlings, as you are, but do you have any other ideas?”

Lowering her head, Skylight shook it, “No.” She pawed at the ground with a hoof, still shaking her head. “I should have followed him.”

“This isn’t your fault Skylight, none of us could have known he’d change his hiding place. All we can do now it hope we find him before night falls.” Cadence glanced up at the sun, the ball of bright yellow at its peak in the sky, heating their coats and the rock they sat upon.

“Why don’t we ask the guards?” Cloud’s suggestion lifted the other three’s eyes towards him, bringing a smile to Skylight’s lips.

“Yes, they must have seen him.” Standing, Skylight spread her wings before leaping into the air and zipping away.

Her eyes following the shrinking blue form as it dissolved against the sky, Cadence heard Cloud climbing to his hooves as well.

“I should go after her, make sure she’s safe.” One beat of his wings and he left them with a cloud of dust in his place.

“Well, maybe we won’t be searching these mountains all day,” Cadence said as she turned back to Shining, only to find his lips stained with the red of raspberries, half of a pie protruding between them. His eyes were unfocused, dreaming as he chewed. “You didn’t even hear any of that did you?”

Awareness flickered into Shining’s eyes as he looked to Cadence. “Hmm?” The murmur that came from his mouth caused Cadence to giggle.

“Don’t worry yourself about it, just eat your pie.” Feeling an emptiness in her own stomach, Cadence grasped one of the pies for herself, the blue of the berries showing through small holes in the pastry.

The sound of Shining’s chewing was drowned out by Cadence’s thoughts as she nibbled at her own pie, the taste barely registering on her tongue. It wasn’t Skylight’s fault, it was mine. The faces of those dragons who had put their faith in her that morning filling her mind. If I had have just let Skylight follow him, we would know where he is.

Unconsciously she swallowed, eyes staring at the red-brown rock before her but seeing nothing. What if we don’t find him? What of we don’t find those foals? The dragons’ smiles and tears twisted with anger, all of them swelling up in size, scales reddening till her mind was filled with dozens of Embers What will they think of me if I fail?

“Cadence?” The sound of Shining’s voice and the touch of his hoof on her shoulder pulled Cadence out of her thoughts, a gasped breath filling her lungs. “Are you okay?”

Rubbing at her eye with a hoof, the world flooded back into Cadence’s vision, her pie still floating before her, only the tiniest nibble missing from it. “Oh, I’m, I’m. I’m scared Shining.” She felt his foreleg sliding over her withers, lips pressing into her cheek softly.

“Are you thinking about Ember again?”

“Well, yes, but it’s not him I’m scared of.” Cadence sighed, her shoulders slumping and eyes falling. “I’m scared of failing. What if I don’t find those hatchlings today? What will I say to their parents? Sorry?”

Silence met her questions, Shining doing nothing but slowly running his hoof along her back, the sensation calming. Eventually he spoke, “You might have to. No matter how much you want to be a hero for this city, you’re still a pony, you can only do so much. Everyone has failures sometimes, this might be one of yours.”

“I know but,” Sniffing, Cadence swallowed back the choking feeling in her throat, blinking away the tears trying to form in her eyes. “Whenever I’ve failed before Celestia’s always been at my side, always giving me another try, but this time if I fail lives might be lost. Dragons as young as Twilight could just disappear if I fail.”

“Twilight.” The name brought a smile to Shining’s lips, memories to his mind. “I wonder how she’s doing.”

The thought of that lavender foal brought a smile to Cadence’s lips also, the overwhelming pressure to succeed subsiding as fond images filled her head. “She’ll still be at home, going to school every day. I wonder if she misses us?”

“Mmm.” Shining nodded, a longing to mess his sister’s mane filling his hoof. “She’ll be graduating soon, moving onto an academy to study astronomy.”

“Or maybe magic?” The smile on Cadence’s muzzle spread even wider as she recalled the unicorn’s shaky first attempts, and how quickly she had progressed. “She was getting quite good before we left.”

The soft sound of wings drew Cadence’s eyes to the air, a pair of blue wings was speeding through the air towards them, loping a short distance behind a massive white pair. “It looks like they’re back.” The memories of Twilight were washed from Cadence’s mind as their current task filled her thoughts. I hope they found out where he is.

A miniature earthquake ran under their bodies as Skylight landed, skidding to a halt on a step or two before them. Her muzzle was plastered with a grin, wings still extended as she spoke. “It took some helping, but we found which way Ember went.”

Beside her, Cloud dropped to the ground like a dancer landing after a perfect leap, his hooves barely making a sound. “The guards said they saw him flying straight out over the road that leads to the main gate, before diving into the ground.”

“We followed their directions and found an entrance.” Skylight crouched as the words came from her lips, gesturing for Shining and Cadence to stand with a wing. “Let’s go.”

“Don’t you want something to eat first?” Cadence pointed to the pair of pies laid out atop her bag.

“No need. I want to stop Ember now.”

Nodding, Cadence packed her barely touched pie into her saddlebags alongside the other two, fastening the latch before placing them upon her back. “Okay, I’m ready.” The nauseating dread of flight was far from her mind, an eager want to rescue the hatchlings filling her belly instead.

Beside her, Shining still sat upon the ground, barely having moved since the two pegasi landed.

“Shining?” Cadence questioned, waving a hoof before his eyes. “We’re going.”

His eyelids flickered, head shaking as he looked up to her. “Sorry, I was just thinking.” Eyes still somewhat hazy, he stood and moved towards Cloud, climbing atop the pegasus without a complaint.

He must miss her more than I do, Cadence thought as she mounted Skylight herself. It would be great if there was some way we could talk with her. The idea filled her mind as the body underneath her took off, wind streaming past her as they sped towards the city walls.

“So this is it?” Shining asked, staring up at the boulder that towered above the four. A small crack opened the earth beside it, leading to darkness beyond. “How could Ember fit down here?”

He stepped towards the entrance, putting a hoof into it and finding he could barely move without bumping against the sides.

Stepping up beside him, Cloud eyed the tight gap with confusion. “This can’t be right, there was a massive hole here before, and this boulder was over there.” With a hoof he gestured to the left of the colossal rock. “It was, wasn’t it Skylight?”

“Yes.” Skylights voice sounded from behind them, moving to their left where the boulder had supposedly sat. “It’s been moved.” Extending a wing, she brushed the white tip against the scrapes and scratches across the red-brown dirt. “Could you shift it back?”

The words were directed at Cadence, who still stood back from the three, watching the situation. When three pairs of eyes turned to her she moved forward as well, eyeing the boulder, imagining its weight. “Well, maybe, but it’d be easier if Shining helped.”

Nodding, Shining lit his horn, surrounding the rock with his blue glow as Cadence did the same. “Which way?”

“Back to where it was, right where Skylight is standing.”

Taking the hint, Skylight moved away from the trails of movement, back to Cloud’s side. They both watched as the ringing of Cadence’s and Shining’s horns grew louder and louder, their blue glow around the rock so bright they could no longer see the red-brown surface underneath.

“Ready?” Cadence breathed, her eyes closed and legs spread, braced to exert the full force of her magic.

“Yes.”

“Okay. Three, two, one.” Both horns flared with blue as the last words left Cadence’s lips, the boulder before them screaming for a moment as it scraped against the lip of the cave.

Silencing her horn, Cadence glanced to the side where she expected the great rock to be, but instead she found nothing. “What happened?”

A thump in time with the earsplitting sound of rock cracking answered her, drawing all eyes off into the distance where the rock they had just flung rested in pieces. Long shards of the red-brown stone sat in the rough shape of a bowl.

“That did seem a little light,” Shining commented, a smile coming to his lips. “Maybe we should have tested how heavy it was before shifting it.”

“Who cares, let’s go.” Standing at the edge of the opening, Skylight stared down into it, wings half-open.

Stepping up beside her, Shining eyed the pegasus with a smile. “Aren’t you scared? We’re going deep underground.”

Lifting her eyes, Skylight met his smile with a smirk. “Barely, this cave is big enough to fly inside.”

Gazing into the hole for the first time, Shining saw what she said was true. The cave dropped off suddenly into a great ravine, shadows covering the bottom, the walls wide enough to hide a city inside. “Don’t tell me we have to fly.”

Ignoring the smirk on Skylight’s nodding head, Shining turned towards Cloud who was already crouched a few steps behind. “You’ll be fine Shining,” He said. “You’ve flown so many times now you must be growing accustomed to the feeling.”

As he climbed over Cloud’s back to wrap his forelegs around the pegasus’s withers, Shining grimaced. “Barely. I still feel the same pulling in my stomach.” Looking across to Cadence, he found a smile on her lips, the small thing helping to relax his limbs.

Just think of Cadence, Shining thought as he felt Cloud’s muscles moving underneath him, testing his wings. Cadence and chocolate. Black washed over his vision as eyelids closed, the dream world he drifted off to coming into focus.

Cadence kept her eyes open as Skylight dropped into the cave before pulling up, hovering in place.

“Can you give me light?” The pegasus asked, a wall of shadow before her.

Nodding, Cadence lit her horn, flooding the darkness with bright blue, chasing the shadows back to their hiding holes. The sight set out underneath them caused her to gasp, walls of the deep ravine they hovered above were speckled with twinkling lights. Gems.

The wings of Skylight shifted, sending them spiraling downward into the sea of tiny crystals, the slow beats of Cloud’s wings following. Most of them appeared to be the red of rubies, tinted to purple by Cadence’s blue light, but the green of emeralds made itself known here and there also.

Cadence barely noticed the tugging of flight at her insides, her focus taken up entirely by the beauty of the tiny gems. Ahead of them the walls of stars continued, turning downwards into shadow that Cadence’s magic had yet to reach.

Another movement of Skylight’s wings and they were diving downward, into a tunnel that came from the ravine. The tunnel was more of its own cavern than a tunnel itself, wide enough for both Skylight and Cloud to fly side by side.

The gems embedded into the rocky walls thinned out here. Cadence seeing less and less as Skylight dove deeper into the tunnel until there were only one or two rushing past them each moment, the blue lit tunnel walls taking over.

I wonder how deep this goes, Cadence thought, the ravine they had left now far out of sight and the end of the tunnel nowhere to be seen. Underneath her Skylight’s muscles tightened, shifting blue wings slightly to slow their dive.

Around them the tunnel walls were closing in. Slowly, but was noticeable to Cadence when she glanced backward and found Cloud’s wings nearing the rock on either side. Closer and closer still they came, Skylight’s wings slowing their descend even more, until it seemed like they were merely strolling down the tunnel.

“Brighten your horn,” Skylight grunted back at Cadence. “I need to see further ahead.”

“Okay.” Focusing on the spark in her horn, Cadence twisted the magic from a radiant light into one solid beam of blue. She directed the light downward, revealing the end of the tunnel below and the floor of the cavern beyond it.

“Good.” With that Skylight tightened her wings back against her sides, angling back into a dive.

As they descended Cadence shifted her spell back to the aura of light it had been before, lighting Cloud’s way for him.

The moment they popped out of the tunnel Cadence felt Skylight release a heavy breath, muscles in her relaxing. These things barely registered in Cadence’s mind however, her focus completely captured by the bright green glow that greeted them.

A gem wider than Cloud’s wingspan was embedded into the rocky wall ahead of them, glittering like a lake under the moonlight of Cadence’s horn. It’s beautiful, She thought as they slipped underneath it, continuing deeper into the cave.

Ahead of them the cavern walls were lit up like the night sky once more, rubies and emeralds accompanying them. The cavern twisted and turned around them, directing them further and further into the earth.

With little to do but gaze at the beauty that surrounded her, Cadence found herself focusing on the movement of Skylight’s muscles against her stomach. The slow push and pull as she beat her wings, the slight adjustments she made to turn as they were gliding.

It seems like she barely has to move at all. The thought came to Cadence as she compared Skylight’s easy movements with her struggles at flight. Her wings feeling as if they would break off at any moment, the muscles in her back screaming for rest.

What was that? A cry broke Cadence from her memories, only a faint sound over the whisper of Skylight’s wings. Shifting her neck forward, she held her muzzle beside Skylight’s ear. “Did you hear that?”

“Yes, this is the place.” One quick stroke of Skylight’s wings and they were rocketing through the darkness at greater speed, another glow meeting Cadence’s blue on the cavern walls.

A twist of the cavern and it met Cadence’s eyes, a flattened ledge to land upon, rocks glowing hot red lighting the darkness. As they came closer more and more of the ledge became visible, a jagged doorway cut into the stone at its end.

The clicks of hooves against stone signalled Cloud and Skylight’s landing, one after the other. Climbing from Skylight, Cadence strolled around the ledge, stretching the slight numbness from her legs. Better than my wings aching with pain.

“Is everyone ready?” Cadence whispered as Cloud woke Shining from his dreamy nap, a drop of drool hanging from his lips.

Skylight met Cadence’s question with a grin, her wings puffed out slightly, legs spread, ready. “Let’s help him.”

In two pairs, Cadence and Skylight, Shining and Cloud, they crept through the stony doorway, the room that followed lit by the same heated rocks as the ledge. Another doorway waited for them in the far wall, this one leading to a wide open cavern, a spiralling stairway of rock taking them downward.

Around and around a pillar of stone they descended, darkness on one side, the glowing hot rocks on the other. Some jutted out of the wall, so close to Cadence she could feel the heat’s touch against her cheek.

At the bottom another doorway met them as well as another cry, this one piercing Cadence’s ears. “Mother!”

The word drove Cadence into a sprint, her legs carrying her forward into the next room where Ember sat, the three hatchlings chained up behind him. He blinked as she lit her horn, holding a spark there, ready.

“You managed to find me again princess,” Ember shook his head as he spoke, glancing back at the hatchlings every so often. “It does not matter though, I have another plan.” Reaching out with a wing, he grasped one of the hatchlings, bright red scales tightening around dull blue.

Watching, Cadence’s eyes widened as Ember lifted the hatchlings head towards his muzzle, opening his teeth around its neck. Beside her the hoofsteps of the other three stopped, Skylight and Cloud on one side, Shining on the other. “What are you doing?” Cadence cried.

“Bargaining.” Ember’s voice was distorted by the body held delicately between his lips. “I’ll give you these hatchlings back. The city celebrates your victory and then you leave Rockholm, and never return, or.” Taking the hatchling from his mouth, Ember bit down on air. “I eat all three.”

Cadence felt her legs locking up, her mind racing as she met the quivering eyes of each hatchling. I have to save them, but to leave Rockholm. Looking back to Ember’s eyes, she found the fearful dragon hiding there. Everything would go back to the way it was.

Beside her, she sensed Skylight shifting closer, the pegasus’s muzzle closing in on her ear. “Say we’re going to leave. Take the hatchlings and stay in Rockholm.”

A smile came to Ember’s lips. “If you think you can trick me, taking the hatchlings and breaking our deal, think again. If you do I’ll eat three hatchlings tomorrow and then take three more, each day until you leave.”

No. Cadence’s body suddenly felt heavy, her legs unable to support her as she sunk to the ground, eyes falling.

“Giving up so easily?” Ember called across the room, a chuckle following his words.

“No.” Cadence’s voice was soft, barely more than a whisper, yet it filled the room, silencing Ember’s laughter. “I’m disappointed. This isn’t you Ember. I know I haven’t known you for very long, but I can see it in your eyes, this isn’t you.”

The words hit Ember like cold water, pushing the breath from his lungs, the wing that held a hatchling lowering to the stone below. His golden eyes glazed over, resting on Cadence yet looking not at her, but through her.

“Mother,” The word left Ember’s lips as he choked back a sob, his shoulders sinking, whole body deflating. “She always said those words, whenever I did something wrong.” A sob broke through his lips, the wing that held a hatchling releasing its grip, allowing the dull blue hatchling to slip onto the stone.

“I’m disappointed. This isn’t you Ember.” He repeated the words, shoulders shaking with another sob. “She always made everything better.” Silence followed Ember’s voice, every eyes watching the great red dragon as tears rolled down his cheeks and over his lips. “But now she’s gone.”

Straightening up, Ember’s eyes refocused, wing grasping the hatchling before him once more. “She’s gone and now I’m a monster.” Tilting back his head, he held the squirming body above his open lips.

“She is gone,” Cadence’s voice was still soft, her eyes rising to meet Ember’s. “But she wouldn’t want you to be a monster, would she? What would your mother say if she saw you now?”

Another breath caught in Ember’s throat, his wing lowering the hatchling back towards the ground. “I’m disappointed. This isn’t you Ember.” He sighed deeply, body deflating once more. “This isn’t me is it? I don’t want to be, this.”

Standing, Cadence took a step forward, and another, and another, until she stood before Ember, outstretched hoof touching against one of his forelegs. “You can change, you can be a prince everyone loves, one all of these hatchlings look up to. Just choose that path.”

Stretching out both his wings, Ember gathered the three hatchlings before him and struck their chains off with a talon. “Take the hatchlings, and go. I need time to think about this.”

Freed, the hatchlings quickly untangled themselves before scampering away from Ember, to the three ponies who stood at the far end of the room.

Staring up into his downcast eyes, Cadence smiled. “I know it will be hard for you to change your life, but I want to be there to help you. Why don’t we meet somewhere tomorrow?”

Lost in his own thoughts, Ember took a moment to register Cadence’s words. “Yes, I would like that. Why not at the entrance to this cave, I don’t know if I will be able to face the city yet.”

Cadence nodded as she turned, stepping back towards Shining. After a few steps she twisted her neck back, “Remember Ember,” She said. “You’re not a monster.”

The words seemed not to disturb the thoughtful dragon, unconscious to the world around him as memories flickered past his eyes, tears streaming down his cheeks.

The other three met Cadence with smiles when she joined them, the three hatchlings watching Cadence with wide eyes as Shining wrapping a foreleg over her withers, bringing her close. “You did it,” He whispered into her ear, unheard by the others. “I’m so proud of you.”

“It’s not over yet.” Skylights words drew Cadence’s and Shining’s eyes towards her. “How do we get these hatchlings back?”

“What do you mean?” Cadence questioned, glancing over the five that stood before her. “We fly th-” Realisation struck her when she totalled the amount of wings they had against the bodies they had to carry. “Shining and I can wait here. You take the hatchlings back first.”

Looking over Cadence’s shoulder, Skylight motioned towards Ember with a hoof. “Can’t he help us?”

“I’d rather fly back myself than have him take me,” One of the hatchlings declared, the blue scaled one who had been held in his wing like a toy. “He’ll take us somewhere and eat us.”

Meeting the hatchlings eyes, Cadence smiled softly. “He’s not like that anymore, Ember’s changed. You don’t have to be afraid of him.”

A frown twisted the hatchlings features as he glanced between Cadence and the great red dragon behind her. “No dragon changes like that, he’s still bad. You’ll see tomorrow, he’ll take more hatchlings like us.”

The hatchling’s high-pitched protests seemed to reach Ember, the sound of leathery wings against stone filling the air as he shifted, lifting his head towards the group. “I’m sorry young one,” He said gently, a wince following his words, face creasing with pain, as if he had just been run through with a spear. Through the pain he continued, voice little more than a breath. “I’m sorry for what I did to you, taking you from you mothers and fathers.”

“Will you help us then?” Skylight called back at him, ignoring the uncomfortable shifting of the hatchlings behind her.

“I would, but,” Ember sighed, clutching at his side, lines of pain of his face tightening, the imaginary sword in his chest being twisted. “It seems the hatchlings are still uneasy about me, I can not blame them.”

Nodding, Skylight turned back to the group, her eyes falling on Cadence. “Can you carry one?”

Looking up at the question, Cadence opened her wings, stretching out the aches and pains they held. “Well, I don’t know. Let me test my wings.” Pushing through the air gently, it felt as if she were trying to fly in water, her wings as weak as a foals. Maybe I need to be in the air for them to feel better?

Stepping towards the door, Cadence moved through it to the base of the stairs beyond, the light of her horn lighting up the darkness. At full strength the blue of her magic still failed to reach the far wall, the roof above and ground below covered in shadow also.

Knowing she had plenty of room, Cadence leapt into the air, expecting her wings to catch her. What if I can’t fly? The thought passed through her mind the moment her hooves left the stone, mind too drunk on joy to think of the dangers.

Pink wings flapped weakly against the warm cavern air, Cadence quickly realising she was falling, her end waiting somewhere in the darkness below. This was a terrible idea, She realised moments before a chest slammed into her side, Skylight’s strong forelegs scooping her out of the air.

“First Shining, now you,” Skylight said as they climbed back to the ledge she had leapt off, a smile on her lips and the hint of laughter in her voice. “One day you two will pay me back.”

Cadence found herself chuckling despite the situation. “What would he and I do without you two?”

Back on the ledge, Skylight deposited Cadence before heading back through the roughly hewn doorway. “Alright, you, onto his back,” Cadence heard her barking orders as she followed, the largest of the hatchlings atop Cloud when she entered.

“You,” She pointed to the blue scaled hatchling, the second largest of the bunch. “Onto my back.”

“I don’t want to ride such a mean pony,” He glanced sideways, Cadence filling his eyes. “I want to ride the princess.

Stepping between him and Cadence, Skylight met the hatchlings defiant look with a smile. “It’s me or you’re staying with Ember.”

The threat had the hatchling quickly scrambling for Skylight’s lowered back, the pegasus shifting her wings uneasily at the sensation of scales against her coat.

One hatchling clutching onto her neck, the other standing beside her, Skylight turned back to Cadence and Shining. “You two are fine here?”

“We’ll be fine,” Cadence answered, Shining’s worried hoof stroking her mane. “You two go, make those parents happy.”

Nodding, Skylight turned away from the couple and towards the door, Cloud already stepping through it as she followed.

Cadence cuddled into Shining’s neck when Skylight’s white tail disappeared behind rock. “Well, today turned out great after all,” She whispered. “We found the hatchlings, and managed to break through with Ember.”

“And maybe we can have a little fun together before Cloud and Skylight get back.” The sound of Ember’s scales scraping against rock reminded Shining that they were not alone, drawing both ponies eyes towards the dragon that rested behind them.

“Are you okay Ember?” Cadence called out, pulling away from Shining’s embrace.

Spread out across the stone floor, Ember stared at them with closed eyelids, pain creasing his face. “Don’t worry about me, this pain is nothing.” Inhaling, he winced, shifting where he lay once more.

Concern filled Cadence’s features as she stood, stepping towards the squirming dragon. “Are you sure? You’ve been acting like this ever since you freed the hatchlings. Did they hurt you somehow?”

A smile crept across Ember’s lips, kept small by the pain that still rested there. “No, this is my own fault. Realising what I’ve been doing all these years, how wrong it was, how I could have avoided it all. It hurts.” Twisting on the spot, Ember clutched at his stomach with a claw, wincing.

“The part of my mind that still holds the monster is fighting this, trying to regain control,” He continued. “Telling me I’ve come this far, there’s no going back.”

Now at Ember’s side, Cadence reached out with a hoof, pressing it against his scales. “You know there is going back, right? Forgiveness will be hard for the dragons of Rockholm, but if you show kindness to them it will come.” Ember twisted again, a shudder passing along his body. “Would you like a little magic to help?”

“No,” Ember shook his head. “I’m not a weak dragon. This is a pain I need to face.”

Unsure, Cadence lowered her hoof. “Well, are you sure. Hard times are always easier with someone there to comfort you.”

The smile on Ember’s lips widened, the lines of pain on his face fading somewhat. “The memory of my mother is all I need to get through this. Go, be with your friends.”

“Well, if you’re sure. I will see you tomorrow Ember.” With that Cadence turned and stepped toward Shining, pressing her muzzle into his ear when she neared him. “Let’s wait at the top of the stairs, give Ember his time alone.”

“Princess!” Flo’s cry rang across the afternoon sky when she caught sight of Cadence. Waiting on the balcony edge, she had her claws resting on the railing, following the bodies through the sky with her eyes.

“Oh Flo,” Cadence said as she dismounted Skylight. “I’m so sorry we left you alone all day. Our search for Ember took longer than expected, but-”

Barrelling into Cadence’s chest, Flo knocked the rest of the alicorn’s air from her chest. “It doesn’t matter. You came back safe.”

Cadence felt wetness as Flo nuzzled at her neck, the young dragon sniffing back tears. “Flo, there’s no need to cry, everything’s alright now.”

Stepping back from Cadence, Flo wiped the streams from under her eyes with the back of her claw. “I’m not crying. I,” Glancing around the balcony, Flo looked for something to change the conversation. “Um, Did you beat up Ember real good?”

“Well.” Cadence thought back to the dragon prince, a squirming mass of scales they had left him. I hope he’s okay. “He is in pain, but it wasn’t our doing.” The cock of Flo’s head urged Cadence to continue. “He gave us back the hatchlings freely, and said he wants to change. Apparently the decision caused him great pain.”

A frown creased Flo’s features. “So no crazy fighting with magic and claws?”

“No,” Reaching out a hoof, Cadence patted Flo’s head. “Something much better than that, we made a new friend, hopefully.”

“Are you back from your journey?” A tapping came with the deep voice from the other side of the room, the sound of claws on stone. “I wish to discuss certain matters.”

“Obsidian?” Cadence questioned back, stepping around looking towards the door.

“Yes, it is I. Do you have time for talking?”

Glancing around at the others, Cadence found Skylight and Cloud sharing a look, Shining nodding back at her while Flo’s frown twisted even further. “Well, I do, but could we speak in your throne room? I think some here want their privacy.”

“Understandable, I will see you down there shortly then.” The clicks of Obsidian’s claws on stone faded into silence, Flo stepping forward to hold Cadence’s forelegs once more.

“Don’t go princess. You don’t need to talk with big meanie.”

A giggle bubbled from Cadence’s lips as she untied herself from Flo’s grasp. “I don’t need to, but I want to. Hopefully I can help him be less of a meanie. Now, do you want to come with me, or stay here?”

Rolling her eyes into her head, Flo stroked the underside of her muzzle with a claw for a few moments before answering. “I’ll come with you.” A sigh sounded from Skylight. “You need someone to protect you against that old meanie.”

Looking to the pegasus pair, Cadence smiled, knowing in her eyes as she met Skylight’s. “I assume you two are staying here?”

Red touched at Skylight’s cheeks as she averted her eyes, Clouds cheeks flaming with pink also. “Yes, we’re, tired,” Skylight responded. “You three go.”

Hopefully Cloud takes my advice, Cadence thought as she stepped from the balcony inside. “Well you two have fun, we’ll see you when the sun’s behind the palace? Later?” Celestia’s prize currently rested just in sight of the balcony, only a little longer before it would be hidden.

“That should be enough.” Skylight held up a wing to cover the glow on her cheeks.

“Alright.” Cadence nodded, her lips swelling with with a grin she couldn’t help, chest overflowing with warmth. “Let’s go Shining and Flo.” Moving behind the two as they stepped past her, Cadence shepherded them towards the door before turning back and calling, “Good luck you two.”

“Are they gone?” The deep stone click of the door shutting answered Skylight’s question, the breath she had been holding escaping freely from her lips. Turning to Cloud, she moved her muzzle close to his, their lips brushing against each other gently. “Let’s try again.”

Locking Cloud’s lips with hers, Skylight pulled him inside, one of her wings curling around his back.

Standing his ground, Cloud broke away from Skylight with a gasp, causing surprise to fill her features. “What are you doing?” Her voice was soft, vulnerable, almost hurt.

“Before we begin, I want to ask you something.” Pulling his eyes away from Skylight’s, Cloud glanced around the room, from one blank wall to their other that supported their tent. How do I say this? “Can I lead this time?”

Skylight stood silent for a moment, holding Cloud’s eyes with question.

“I, I think I know how to lessen the pain,” Cloud quickly added, a smile filling Skylight’s lips once more.

“Go ahead.”

The words hung in the air, Cloud’s mind not processing their meaning briefly. “Oh, me?” At Skylight’s nod he moved his muzzle forward, taking her lips in his. Gently, he led her towards their tent, allowing her to pull him inside and onto the soft mattresses they slept upon.

Her wings pulled him close, a deep breath inhaling his scent. Pushing back from Skylight, Cloud loosed his lips, trying to recall what Cadence had told him through the blinding rush of excitement that filled his mind. Start on her with your mouth.

Moving downward, Cloud found himself nuzzling at Skylight’s belly, planting soft kisses here and there as she shivered against his touch.

“What are you doing?” Skylight’s voice drew Cloud’s eyes up to meet hers, the eyes of a filly, full of wonderment and anticipation, something he rarely saw in her.

Forcing a confident smile across his lips, Cloud ignored the thoughts rushing through his mind. I have no idea what I’m doing. “Just let me lead.”

Satisfied, Skylight smiled back, watching him as he continued down her exposed belly, towards her hips. A scent greeted his snout as it moved closer to her lips, one that Cloud had smelt a few times, when they cuddled close in bed, but never of this strength. The scent of her desire.

It was not repulsive, nor explicitly sweet, yet Cloud found his muzzle drawn toward it, his lips brushing against Skylight’s lower pair. He heard her moan and felt her shiver, the response encouraging Cloud, his mouth opening, tongue extending to taste.

Skylight’s entrance opened itself to him, the bud of her pleasure pushing out to touch the tip of his tongue. A gasp filled the air as flesh made contact with flesh, Skylight’s rear legs squeezing at Cloud’s head, willing him forward.

Obedient, Cloud ventured closer with his still open mouth, his lips contacting hers in a passionate kiss, tongue roaming inside instinctively. Wings came up over Cloud’s head as Skylight’s moans filled the air, the feathered force pushing him deeper.

Squeezing, Cloud felt it around his tongue and snout, Skylight’s insides tightening around the intrusion. Drops of her nectar ran down his tongue, the taste bittersweet, one that Cloud wanted more of.

Against the weight of Skylight’s wings Cloud drew back, till he could see the pink of her flesh before him, glistening with both his saliva and her juices. Mind absent of all thought he drew his tongue across her winking lips, tasting her entirety and sending a violent shiver up her spine.

“Cloud.” He felt and heard Skylight’s voice, the contact of his body against hers causing the gasping sound to fill his muzzle. “I want you in me.”

Pulling back from his lapping, Cloud lifted his eyes and found Skylight’s closed, her teeth biting hard against a lip as pleasure sparked along her body. “Just let me lead,” He responded, feeling his own length hard and wanting, pressed against the mattress.

She needs a little longer, He knew somehow, her lower lips still holding a tension, not relaxed, not completely open to him. So he dove back inside, his tongue tasting at Skylight’s inner flesh, muzzle spreading her wider as she tried to tighten around him.

Cloud felt a deep breath fill her lungs, her back arching, hips pressing into his touch. “I can feel something Cloud.”

Now. Drawing himself backward, Cloud gently untangled his head from her wings and the strands of her tail that had somehow looped over his ear. Heat throbbed through his member as he moved his body upward until his head was in line with her neck, the tip of his shaft resting against her nethers.

“Are you ready?” At the sight of her nod, Cloud moved forward, Skylight’s lips parting for him easily, her juices coating his length as he slowly filled her. The sensation dominated his thoughts, her flesh so close against his it was as if they were one.

A gasp met Cloud’s ears as his hips met Skylight’s, their muzzles side by side, chests pressed against one another. He could sense her heartbeat all throughout his body, feel the timing of her breaths, in sync with his own.

“Take the lead Cloud.”

Skylight’s words drew Cloud out from the river of sensation he was riding, instinct coursing through his muscles once more, drawing his hips out, and back in again. At each of his movements she gasped, squeezing so tightly around him Cloud feared his strokes would cease.

The juices constantly flowing from Skylight made sure his fear never became reality, flesh sliding easily against flesh, the sensation causing a tension to grow in Cloud’s groin. Wanting to release the tension, Cloud continued to thrust, his moans filling the air as he felt his shaft preparing for release.

“Cloud, I’m almost-” A gasp cut off Skylight, her inner muscles clenching tight against Cloud, so tight he could no longer move, before relaxing, Cloud’s member free once more. Skylight’s body twisted, her chest pushing into his and muzzle cuddling close into his neck.

The spasm that followed surprised Cloud, his shaft unable to move inside the muscles that pressed around it. He felt Skylight’s breathing quicken against his chest, her heart beat like the wings of a hummingbird, so frantic he feared it might burst.

His groin grew tighter and tighter in response, the feeling of something wanting to leave making itself known to him. I can’t do this inside. The thought flashed through Cloud’s mind before he recalled what Skylight had told him the previous day. She can’t.

Mind satisfied, Cloud returned his thought to the sensation of Skylight around his shaft, her inner spasming weakening with each movement, the pressure in his groin growing and growing.

“That was, better than I could dream.” Skylight’s whispered words barely reached Cloud’s mind, his whole body tensing up, readying itself for release.

“Skylight,” Was all he managed to utter before he felt a movement work its way up his length, a hot jet of his seed filling Skylight. Again and again his groin pulsed, the sensation of emptying himself one Cloud wished would never stop, but could feel coming to an end.

In response to his climax, Skylight shifted her hips a little, moving along Cloud’s spasming shaft as she felt him filling her. “I love you Cloud.” Her declaration came with the last of his twitches, his shaft unmoving inside her once more.

The words spread a smile across Cloud’s lips, his body feeling heavy, spent. “I love you too, ever since I first saw you. I can’t believe we’ve made it this far.” He felt his shrinking shaft fall from Skylight’s nethers, releasing a flow of his seed onto the mattress.

“We’ll clean it later.” Skylight’s words sounded as sleepy as Cloud felt, his eyelids lowering until he was blind. The sound of the tent door closing the last he heard before the weight of sleep overcame him.

I wonder if they’re still going? Cadence thought, the sound of hooves and claws on stone filling the air around her. She had been distracted during her talk with Obsidian, wondering what was going on up above.

Slowing her step, Cadence thought back on what Obsidian had told her, at least what she had paid attention to.

“I have decided to follow your idea princess,” He had said, words slow and measured, the decision clearly one he had thought much about. “If this is what I need to, show love, then I will gladly do it. For the sake of the city, they have been terrorized by Ember more than enough.”

Cadence had chosen not to tell Obsidian of his son’s apparent change. They’re not ready to meet each other yet. They both need so much more work.

“You mentioned dancing,” Obsidian had continued. “An activity that brings back the fondest of my memories, but I have lost my grasp on the whereabouts dragons gather for such things. I know it is much to ask with the city still new to you-”

A smile had spread across Cadence’s lips at the king’s nervous ramblings. “Leave it to us, we’ll find our way eventually. Besides, it’ll be good to explore the city some more.”

“Thank you princess.”

Their conversation had drawn out longer, Obsidian divulging his fears, Cadence just nodding along, mind on other things.

I hope we don’t disturb them. She stood before the door now, Shining on one side, Flo on the other.

“Why are you smiling princess?” Flo asked, looking up at Cadence with confusion lining her features. “Is something funny?”

Try as she might, Cadence couldn’t suppress the grin on her lips as she turned to Flo. “Well, no, nothing’s funny. I’m excited, excited to see what might lie beyond this door.”

Looking deep into Cadence’s eyes, Flo found no humour there. “Princess, you’re crazy. We’ve been into this room heaps. Nothing has changed.”

“Maybe you’re right,” Cadence said as she swung her head to the other side, meeting Shining’s eyes. “The room will still be the same, but I have a feeling something will be different.” Unable to wait any longer, she pressed her hoof into the cool stone before her, allowing the door to swing open.

Slowly, she stepped inside, trying to keep her hoofsteps as quiet as possible, wincing at each clop or click of Shining and Flo’s steps. “Are you two still here?” She called out once she reached the centre of the room, eyes catching no sign of movement.

Beside her, Shining whispered into her ear, “They’ll be in their tent.” His hoof gestured towards the canvas home leaning against the far wall. “Sleeping most likely.”

“Mhmm.” Cadence felt her smile stretching her lips till they hurt, the corners of her eyes growing warm with want for tears. “I’m so proud, our little flower is blooming beautifully.”

Looking between the smiling couple, Flo shook her head. “You ponies are crazy sometimes.”

Fire in the Shadows

“Cloud, I’ve got something to tell you.”

The haze cleared from Cloud’s eyes, darkness around him forming itself into a balcony, the skyline of Rockholm stretching out before him. Skylight stood as the centrepiece to the scene, her usual confident demeanor replaced with red cheeks and downcast eyes.

Stepping forward, Cloud brought his muzzle alongside hers, lifting her eyes to meet his with a nudge. “What is it?” Straining his mind, he searched for something that could have caused a problem, something he had done, or something he had said, but the haze that lurked at the edges of his vision filled his mind also.

“You’ve been wondering why I can’t get pregnant.”

The memory sparked in Cloud’s mind, the mystery that he had been nursing in the depths of his thoughts. “Yes, I have. Do you want to tell me?”

“Yes.” A heavy breath left Skylight’s lips, her whole form seeming to deflate, seeming to shrink until she was little more than a foal. When she spoke again her voice was quieter, of a higher pitch. “It’s because I’m not really a mare.”

Her muzzle twisted, growing larger, less pointed, until the filly before him was a colt.

“What do you mean?” Extending one of his wings, Cloud wrapped the foal up in his grasp, holding him close. Panic beat rapidly in Cloud’s chest, mind racing with wild thoughts. All this time? How could I not have noticed?

Closing his eyes and shaking his head, Cloud smiled. Because it doesn’t matter. The beat of his heart slowed, the torrent of thoughts rushing through his mind cut short by the one. I love Skylight for who she is, not what she is. All the times we’ve spent together mean so much more than if she’s a mare or a stallion.

“When I was born, my parents wanted a filly.” The words opened Cloud’s eyes, drew his attention to the scene before him, two murky faced ponies standing over the tiny Skylight, no longer in his grasp. “But I was a colt.”

A blue glow picked the sky-blue coated colt up, growing brighter and brighter until the body within the light could no longer be seen. “So they took me to some enchantress and made me a filly, but some things can’t be changed.”

Cloud felt a weight in his wing once more. Looking away from the images before him, he found Skylight resting against him, looking as he had always known her. “This doesn’t change anything?” She asked.

“No.” Leaning forward, Cloud placed a kiss on her lips, his eyelids closing and body flooding with warmth, the haze overcoming him once more.

“I’ll always love you Skylight.”

“I will too.” Cloud felt the warmth of lips against his, the scent of Skylight’s sweat filling his nostrils. Eyelids fluttering open, he found Skylight’s eyes a hoof away from his, the pain of his foreleg, cramped from being underneath her all night, coming to him.

“It was all a dream,” Cloud said through a wince, shifting the leg gently out from underneath Skylight.

“What was?”

“Oh, I just had the strangest dream about you.” Shifting against the mattress below him, Cloud thought back to what had unfolded in his mind just moments before. “You told me why you couldn’t, get pregnant.”

Red kissed Skylight’s cheeks, her eyes moving away from Cloud’s. “What did I say?”

Cloud felt a smile spreading across his face as he realized the hilarity of it all. “Something about you not actually being a mare, but rather when you were young your parents had you changed from a colt to a filly.” Laughter left his lips, the sound of Skylight’s chuckle joining him.

“That is weird.” Skylight sighed, her smile shrinking. “Not far from what happened however.”

“Are you saying you were actually a colt?” Cloud’s eyes widened, the beat of his heart hastening, his breathing unsteady.

Another chuckle left Skylight’s lips, her head shaking. “No, but it was an accident when I was a filly, one crazy filly. I was obsessed with flying, I wanted to be the first one in my class to do so. I jumped from the edge of Cloudsdale, and landed on a branch which pierced through my stomach.”

Cloud’s grip on Skylight tightened, bringing her closer, his features creasing with worry. “That’s horrible, I can’t even imagine how it must have felt..”

“I can’t remember how it felt myself, or anything but the fall,” Skylight continued, her eyes unfocused as memories flowed through her mind. “When I woke a unicorn was healing me, and all I could feel was a throbbing. I didn’t find out till later the effects of my fall. My mother told me when I left home, I can’t get pregnant.”

“Oh Skylight, you were such a silly filly.” Reaching forward with his lips, Cloud took Skylight’s in his own, comforting her with the touch.

When they broke apart, Skylight glanced around the dimly lit tent, as if realising where they were for the first time. “What time is it?”

“Let me look” Lifting the edge of the tent flap with his wing, Cloud peeked out into the room beyond. “Morning, I think, but I can’t see Shining and Cadence’s tent. It must be almost noon if Shining’s awake.”

“Noon?” Squirming out of Cloud’s grip, Skylight rolled out of the tent before dashing towards the open balcony door.

The smile of Cadence greeted her, Shining beside the alicorn and Flo staring out over the balcony railing. “Good morning Skylight,” Cadence’s lips were full of a grin, her eyes knowing. “Did you and Cloud have a good sleep?”

“What time is it?” Skylight questioned, ignoring Cadence’s words.

“Only a little past sunrise. There’s no need to panic.”

Relief left Skylight as a breath when she heard Cadence’s words. “Why is Shining awake then?”

Eyes meeting, Cadence and Shining shared a giggle. “We slept early last night,” Cadence explained. “With no one to play cards with there was little to do but talk.”

The hoofsteps of Cloud sounded from behind Skylight, his wing draping over her withers as he stopped at her side. “Have you had breakfast yet? I’m so hungry.”

A pair of open topped pastries appeared from behind Cadence. “We had breakfast before you woke, Shining just couldn’t wait.” The pies held stewed apples and cinnamon, Cloud and Skyylight taking a seat before they ate.

“Ember hasn’t caused trouble this morning?” Skylight questioned between mouthfuls, her eyes scanning the skyline of Rockholm.

“No.” A smile came to Cadence’s lips as she spoke. “He’s kept his promise. Hopefully a talk with him this morning can help him along the path to reuniting with his father.”

Cloud looked up from his pie. “Speaking of Obsidian, how did your conversation with him go yesterday?”

The smile on Cadence’s lips spread further as she thought back to what she assumed Cloud and Skylight had done the previous day. “Well, he said he wants to try our idea. All we have to do is find a place for him to go.”

“Why don’t Skylight and I try to find a place while you and Shining talk with Ember?” Cloud suggested, his mind drifting into dreams of him and Skylight having time alone once more.

A giggle burst from Cadence’s smiling lips as she looked into Cloud’s dreamy eyes. “I know you’re eager, but neither Shining or I can fly currently, and even if I could, I couldn’t carry him. So why don’t you and Shining explore the city?”

The dream filling Cloud’s head twisted, Skylight’s face turning into Shining’s moments before he laid lips on her. Jumping where he sat, Cloud blinked rapidly, shaking away the terrifying picture. “Uh, I guess so.” He turned to Skylight and found a smile on his lips.

“We’ll find another time.”

Confirmation of Cloud’s dreams sent a surge of warmth through his body and down his legs, pushing away any remnants of sleep. “Let’s get going then Shining.”

Looking at the excited pegasus with tired eyes, Shining let out a sigh. “Can’t we wait till lunch time to leave?” Laughter filled the air as it left the lips of the other three.

“Princess, look!” Flo’s shout caught Cadence’s ears, reminding her the dragon was still in their presence. A cry followed her words, cutting off the group’s fading laughter.

All eyes were drawn out over the balcony, towards The Sapphire Tower where dull red wings fled towards the city wall. No, Cadence thought, the corners of her eyes warming with tears wanting to leave, her heart throbbing, broken like that of a mother who has lost her foal. Why would you do this Ember?

Looking to Skylight, Cadence found the pegasus already standing, stretching her wings for flight. Half-eaten, her pie lay on the ground, forgotten. “Ready Cadence?”

“Mhmm.” Ignoring the preemptive sickening feeling in her stomach, Cadence climbed onto Skylight’s back and gripped tight around her withers. “Go.”

The force of Skylight’s liftoff left cracks in the balcony’s stone, Cadence’s insides left behind, eyes clenching shut instinctively as Skylight burst through the air, but she noticed none of this. This isn’t you Ember. Why are you doing this? I thought you wanted to change? Thoughts stormed through her mind, the pains of her body pushed aside as she tried to convince herself it wasn’t him.

Crack! The slam of Skylight hooves on stone and the splitting sound as cracks ran through it brought Cadence from her thoughts. Leaping from Skylight’s back, she turned to the pegasus.

“Why didn’t you follow Ember?” She questioned, her voice strained, on the verge of tears. “What if he’s chosen another place to hide.

Skylight met the panicked pink eyes of Cadence with a calm blue pair. “I saw his claws, they were empty. That wasn’t Ember either.”

A cool drop of relief fell into the boiling pot that was Cadence’s mind, doing little to calm the distress, but caused it to bubble with confusion. “What do you mean it wasn’t Ember?”

“The way his wings moved.” Skylight’s eyes unfocused as she thought back to the red figure escaping through the sky. “They weren’t the powerful beats of Ember. It was a different flier.”

“Well, if you’re sure.” Turning her head, Cadence met the oncoming dragon with a forced smile and received one in return. “What happened here?” She questioned. “Who was it that did this?”

The dragon’s toxic green eyes flicked up to the sky, fearful of another attack. Dull green scales, like that of a murky bog, shifted as he spoke. “It was Ember. He broke down my door when I was sleeping and burned most of my possessions.”

Glancing back at Skylight, Cadence found the pegasus shaking her head at the accusal. Returning her eyes to the distressed dragon, she kept her smile wide. “Did he take anything? Anyone?”

“No, but he can’t get away with such a thing. You must kill him princess.”

The suggestion shocked the smile off of Cadence’s face, a gasp filling her lungs. “Ember isn’t like this. He can’t have been the one who did this, and even if he did. Killing isn’t the answer.”

Huffing, the dragon turned away from her, muttering loudly. “I see the princess doesn’t care for us after all.”

Standing still, Cadence watched the dragon disappear into an alley, leaving his destroyed home alone. What did I do wrong? She wondered, jaw hanging loose, brow creased in confusion. The soft feeling of feathers washed over her back, Skylight draping a wing over her.

“We should talk with Ember,” Skylight suggested, her voice distant, as if she were pondering something. “He may know who did this.”

Turning to meet Skylight’s eyes, Cadence felt tears forming in her own. “What if he was the one who did this? What if everything he said yesterday was a lie?” How could I be so foolish?

The wing on Cadence’s back tightened, holding her closer. “It wasn’t him Cadence,” She assured, voice firm. “Believing it was him would be easy, no one changes in one day, but I know wings. That wasn’t him.”

Breathing deeply, Cadence allowed the words to wash over her mind, pushing the uncertainties down, reaffirming her beliefs about Ember. “This wasn't Ember.” Speaking what she knew calmed her further, vanquishing the creeping doubts.

“Right.” Cadence felt Skylight’s wing leave her back as she spoke. “Now get on.”

Looking to her side, Cadence found Skylight crouched beside her, eyes determined, knowing she was right. A smile lifted her lips as she climbed atop the pegasus, pushing back the worry in her features. “Let’s talk with Ember.”

They found him resting beside the great hole they had uncovered the previous day, a thin layer of dust settled on his scales.

“Ember!” Cadence called once she had dismounted Skylight, her voice disrupting the bright red scales, causing Ember’s neck to curl out from his chest.

“Princess.” A smile crossed his lips, longer than Cadence herself, but it seemed small on him. “I am glad you came.” Most of the dust fled from his face and neck as he shifted, but two streaks of red-brown remained under his eyes. “I have thought more about my decision than I slept last night.”

A yawn broke his great jaws, revealing the monstrous teeth inside. The ground rumbled beneath the two ponies as he twisted on the spot, moving from stretched out across the stone to sitting on his haunches. “There was a lot of pain, but memories of my mother, or more like the feelings I had during my days with her, kept me strong. I think I am ready for change.”

“Well, that’s great Ember, but,” The smile on Cadence lips shrank, her eyes falling away from Ember’s. “A dragon attacked the city today, their scales a similar color to yours. When we talked with the victim they said it was you who attacked them. I was wondering-”

“I can see how you would think it was me, but I am not the only dragon in this city who causes trouble.” Gazing past Cadence, Ember looked up at the city walls. “There are a few dragons with scales of a similar color to mine. They commit crimes and blame me for them.”

“So you weren’t the one who destroyed a house today?”

“No, I don’t want to terrorize this city any longer, but rather someone like you. A dragon who others can look up to, one who makes the city better.” A sigh left Ember’s lips as he tore his eyes away from Rockholm, looking back down to Cadence. “However I do understand the dragons of this city will still blame me whenever they can. I have a long way to go till I can earn their trust.”

“Maybe you can help us with this?” Cadence suggested.

Silence followed her words, lingering in the air for some time before Ember cleared it. “I think I will, but from outside the city. I don’t think showing myself in the city is a good idea, I’d do more harm than help to the dragons of Rockholm, and my father.” The last words were soft, almost inaudible to Cadence.

“Watch the walls then,” Skylight said, her eyes on the sky, wings half-open. “We need to know who these dragons are.”

“I can try, but don’t trust me completely with this. I am still hurting, not outwardly, but inward. These reopened wounds sap my strength, and even though I am calm now, the battle in my mind still waits.” Ember looked to Cadence, pleading in his eyes. “That is why I need your help princess.”

Eager for a distraction, Cadence allowed her rump to fall to the ground, a hoof gesturing for Skylight to sit also. “Well, that is why we’re here, but I don’t know where to start.” Seeing Ember’s shoulders fall, Cadence quickly raised a hoof. “That’s not to say this is impossible, but a mother’s love is difficult to replace.”

The three sat in silence for a time, Cadence’s eyes flitting over Ember’s monstrous body, studying the scars that cut through scales, one of the larger running along his stomach. I can’t rely on Obsidian to provide the love Ember needs, She thought, casting the option aside. He’s still finding his way himself.

What if we find a dragoness for him? Lifting her eyes, Cadence met Ember’s waiting pair and found the frightened hatchling there once more. No, it would be wrong to force him into something he isn’t ready for. Lowering her eyes, she studied Ember’s body once more, following the scars with her eyes, mind racing with ideas.

One stuck out to her. I could be his mother. At first Cadence shook it away, dismissing it as an impossibility. How am I supposed to be a mother to someone so much bigger than me? Yet it continued to come back to her. Who else do we have? I can’t just ask a dragon I don’t know to watch over Ember, to care for him.

Beside Cadence, Skylight still stood, staring up at the sky with watchful eyes, wings ready.

Lifting her eyes, Cadence met Ember’s once more, lips parted, but unsure of what to say. “I’m sorry, but I don’t know a sure way to help.” Ember’s shoulders deflated at her words. “That doesn’t mean I can’t help.” She smiled at the great dragon. “Why don’t you try helping out the city, be their hero? Then love will come another way.”

Ember sighed, his shoulders falling even further. “I just said this, there isn’t much I can do to help the city. I am still weak, and even if I wasn’t, why would they trust me?”

Forcing her smile wider, Cadence held Ember’s eyes with her own. “They won’t, at first, but I’ll be right by your side doing everything I can to convince them you’ve changed.” Still seeing doubt in his eyes, Cadence shuffled closer. “If you won’t do it for Rockholm, or yourself, will you do it for me?”

Looking down at the tiny bundle of pink fur, memories flashed through Ember’s mind of all the times he had threatened her. The times he had tried to take her head, or slice her open with his claws, the pure force of anger driving him, yet still she persisted. How can someone be so forgiving?

“Yes,” He replied, a smile stretching his lips wide. I can work past this pain I have. I can do it for the one who rescued me. “If this will repay you for all the time I tried to kill you, I’ll do it.”

“Well,” Cadence lowered her head as she stepped forth, lifting up one hoof to touch Ember’s foreleg. “While it is great you want to do this, don’t do it because you feel like you owe me something. I don’t want to hold your past over you.”

Nodding, Ember rose, a smile feeling strange to his lips, so different from the scowls they were accustomed to. “I’ll do it because I want to please you princess. Now where do we begin?” A tingling filled his chest and stomach, like the writhing of a hundred worms inside, a giddy sickness.

Stepping back from the colossal beast that stood above her, Cadence glanced back to Skylight. “What do you think we should do next?”

The pegasus’s eyes were roaming the sky, as if following some imaginary flier zooming between the clouds. She seemed not to notice Cadence’s words, as a smile crept across her lips.

“Skylight?”

“What?” The mention of her name broke Skylight from her trance, drawing her eyes back down towards Cadence. “Are we leaving?”

Cadence felt herself smile inwardly. She’s thinking of Cloud isn’t she? Instead of prodding the topic she repeated her question. “What do you think we should do next?”

Twisting her neck backward, Skylight looked to the wall. “Return to Cloud and Shining. They will be wondering.”

“Yes, I think that will be best. We can plan what to do from there.”

Once she had climbed atop the crouched Skylight, Cadence looked back to Ember. “Just follow behind and try not to look at anyone too hard. We don’t want you scaring the city.” The smile on Cadence’s lips told she was joking, yet Ember found himself worrying all the same.

What if they try to attack me? Repay me for all I’ve done to them in the past. Breathing deeply, he ignored his fears and nodded before unfolding his wings, bright red expanses of leather.

Skylight took off gently, Cadence thankful that her insides were not tossed about. A boom and the cracking of stone followed them, the sound of Ember’s great weight leaving the ground. Shadow fell over the pair of ponies as Ember climbed above them in the sky.

Looking back, Cadence felt an instinctive shiver of fear pass along her limbs. He’s not hunting us anymore, She had to remind herself. But to every dragon in the city it will look like he is.

Her fears were realised at they soared over the thick walls of obsidian that surrounded Rockholm. The guards below gazing up in terror, pointing and shouting at the monster chasing the pink and blue mouse.

Above them the ever flowing sea of dragons became like a lake in winter, frozen. Some screamed, but most stayed silent, all eyes watching, waiting to see what would unfold. It seemed as if the world were standing still for Cadence, nothing moving but them.

Ignoring them all, Skylight continued to fly, her eyes focused on the distant balcony, thoughts filled with Cloud. The moment her hooves touched down against stone it seemed as if the city released the breath it had been holding.

Dragons moved once more, this time with the hum of voices, so loud it was as if an angry swarm were flying overhead.

Cloud and Shining’s eyes were bugged out, jaws hanging loose. With a white wing Cloud pointed out the beast behind them, lips trying to move but finding no words to say.

A chuckle took hold of Cadence as she dismounted from Skylight. “We know Cloud, Ember is behind us.” The beats of the great dragon’s wings whipped up her mane, blowing hair over her eyes.

The touch of Skylight’s lips on his cheek seemed to bring his voice back. “Why is he here though? Won’t the city go crazy? They just saw him following you. They’ll think he’s trying to kill you.”

Moving to stand beside Shining, Cadence accepted his hug. “Well, we can talk about that later. For now can everyone step back.” She gestured with a hoof towards the balcony door.

Hovering above the balcony, Ember took the movement as a sign to descend. Slowly, he lowered his claws as close as he could to the stone before stilling his wings. Even with the gently attempt at landing he still left cracks in the grey.

“Sorry.” Ember held up a claw as he folded his wings away. “I have not had to worry about the strength of my landings for many years.”

Looking up at him, Cadence couldn’t help but giggle. “It’s fine, it’ll be your balcony to fix once you’re ruling alongside your father.” Noticing Ember grimace, Cadence bit at her lip. I should avoid that topic for now. “Why don’t we head inside?” She motioned through the door with her head. “I’d rather talk without a hundred eyes watching us.”

“A good decision.” Glancing backward, Ember stared up at the draconic mass overhead. Some of the braver fliers had parted away from the others and circled closer and closer, eyes glued to Ember.

The moment Cadence stepped inside she braced her body, expecting a tumble of sapphire scales to collide with her in a hug. When nothing met her, she looked up and down the room. Where has Flo disappeared to? Shaking the thought away, she turned her mind to the present matters.

Leading the way, Cadence moved to the centre of the room before sitting, Shining taking his place beside her. Cloud and Skylight took their seat to the left of the other couple, Ember opposite the four.

“This stone is so cold,” Ember mentioned as he lowered himself onto the obsidian underneath. “How do you ponies sleep with such a chill?”

“Well,” Cadence smiled at the question. “We don’t actually sleep on the stone, but on soft mattresses, but save the idle talk for later. We need to figure out who this new attacker is.” She looked to Ember for an answer.

Noticing the pairs of eyes meeting his, Ember shook his head. “If you think I can answer this then you are mistaken princess. I have already told you all I know about this morning.”

“You must have some idea of who would do this. If you don’t, how will we stop them before they strike again?”

“Why are you so sure it’s a repeated attack?”

The questioned dammed Cadence’s river of thought, diverting it in another direction. “Well, I don’t know. After you attacked at the same time every morning I assumed this new dragon will too.”

Once again Ember shook his head. “You will not know this, but before you arrived at Rockholm my raids on the city were far less routine. I would attack when,” A sigh cut him off, eyes falling. “When I was full of rage, when I heard too much laughter or celebration coming from the city. I wanted to crush their joy.”

“So not every morning?”

“No, any dragon would tell you the same. I would sometimes strike more than once in an morning, others I would leave Rockholm alone for days.”

Staring up at Ember, Cadence felt her features crease with confusion. “So what did I change about that?”

“I.” A heavy breath lifted Ember’s shoulders, and let them fall again. “I don’t really want to say. It is something that still sickens me, more than the rest of what I did.”

Silence filled the room as Ember’s voice trailed off, Cadence shifting uncomfortably where she sat. Beside her Cloud’s jaw hung loose, eyes wide as he watched Ember’s every movement, as if he couldn’t believe what was before him.

“Why don’t we return to what we met here for?” Shining suggested, the lack of voices grinding away at him. “This new dragon that attacked a house today.”

Ember’s head rose, the sorrow almost gone from his face. “Yes, I don’t want to ruin your happiness any more.” Bringing a claw to his foreleg, he ran along one of his scars as he spoke. “You said we need to find a way to stop this dragon?”

“Mmhmm.” Cadence nodded, glad to be able to speak without treading over emotions once more. “If you can help free the city from crimes like this then the dragons will learn to trust you. They’ll see you as a hero instead of a monster.”

A small smile came to Ember’s lips at Cadence’s words. “Hero. As much as I would like to be one, I do not think this dragon will attack again. This was a desperate theft, most likely someone who needed gems or gold to pay for food.”

“They took nothing.” Skylight’s voice filled the air before Cadence could speak.

“Nothing?” Shifting his eyes to the sky-blue pegasus, Ember shook his head, doubt filling his features. “How are you so sure?”

“I saw his claws, they were empty.”

Ember snorted laughter, a wicked grin coming to his lips. “How can you be so foolish,” Voice laced with mocking, he shook his head at Skylight. “He could have been carrying something in his jaws.”

“Ember!” Cadence called at the dragon, her voice stern. “You don’t need to be so rude. I can hear the monster in your voice.”

Surprise jolted Ember, the grin vanishing from his lips, eyes widening as he stared straight ahead. “I am sorry.” With pleading eyes he looked back to Skylight. “Please forgive me, I slipped back into my old self for a moment.”

Gazing up at the dragon, Skylight chuckled. “I didn’t notice. That is a good point however, I couldn’t see his mouth.” A pause followed Skylight’s words, no one sure of what to say next.

Eventually Cadence spoke up. “Well, it seems like we’ve come to a dead end with this. Maybe it was a one off thing, we’ll see tomorrow.” A smile lit up her lips as her mind shifted thoughts. “But since Ember’s here, I’ve got another idea of something we can do.”

The cobbles seemed to buzz beneath Cadence’s hooves as she stepped down the street, a smile on her lips, chest tingling with excitement. Shining walked at her side, glancing left and right at the eyes that tracked their every move. Behind them Ember followed, his hulking body barely able to fit between the walls on either side.

Above them Cloud and Skylight floated lazily through the air, wings barely having to move to keep up with the slow progression of their grounded companions.

“I’m starting to think this wasn’t the best idea Cadence,” Shining whispered as he looked around. “It doesn’t seem like the dragons here like Ember walking down their street.”

Taking in the dozens of jeweled gazes, Cadence smiled before turning back to Shining. “Well they can’t be afraid of him forever. We may as well allow them to grow accustomed to him as soon as we can.”

“If you say so.” Taking a deep breath, Shining forced himself to look straight ahead, pretending to ignore the pressing eyes on all sides. I can see this going horribly wrong. “Now what exactly are we looking for?”

“A building where dragons would go to dance, like the ballrooms in Canterlot.” Gazing down the street herself, Cadence found no such structure closely resembling the elegant white domes of Canterlot, just flat black and grey. “Or maybe a different building altogether.”

“Why don’t we listen for music?” Shining suggested.

Cadence nodded in response. “That would be a better idea.” Tilting her head, she lifted an ear towards the sky, dipping her mind’s hoof into the stream of sound that ran overhead. The hum of murmuring dragon’s made up most of the noise, words not wanting to be heard, hiding away in the balconies above.

There was another sound there also, so soft Cadence thought for a moment she was imagining it, but the more she focused the clearer it grew. A beat, quiet clicking like the distant tapping of claws on stone. She felt her hoof moving along with it, memories of dancing filling her mind.

Turning back to Shining, Cadence found him in a similar stance to her, ear raised and eyes closed, features creased with frustration as he strained to hear anything. A touch of her hoof against his shoulder opened his eyelids.

“I think I heard something,” She said as his eyes met hers.

“Really?” Rubbing at his ear with a hoof, Shining frowned. “All I could hear were the dragons talking above.”

A smile lit up Cadence’s lips. “You just need to clean your ears out. Come on, I think it’s up ahead.” Quickening her pace, Cadence rushed through the ever tightening streets, the steps of Shining and Ember behind her growing faster to match hers.

It seemed as if Ember had resumed his old role and was chasing Cadence and Shining through the street. The expressions on their faces were mismatched however, Ember’s full of worry as he glanced around, Cadence’s set dead ahead and alight with excitement.

From windows and doors heads of dragons popped out when they heard the three coming, and withdrew the moment they saw Ember. Shouts and screams rang through the air, reaching Cadence’s ear but were brushed aside.

With time they’ll grow accustomed to him, She told herself, still listening intently for the beat that had teased her before. Maybe the screams will become cheers, hopefully.

Having not heard the rhythmic tapping for some time, Cadence slowed her steps and lifted her ears once more, straining against the roar of other sounds for one. As quiet as the scurrying of a mouse it came to her once more, softer this time.

Or is it louder? Cadence could not tell, the sound only the barest trickle in the waterfall of noise around her. I’ll keep going, She decided. If I lose it we can always come back. A smile still on her lips she continued through the street, now more of an alleyway as the walls on either side grew closer and closer.

“Princess?” Ember’s voice met Cadence’s ears, concern in his tone.

Looking back to him, Cadence found the dragon with his forelegs held close to his chest, eyes glancing between the walls on either side. He reminded her of when Shining had gotten stuck in one of the Canterlot palace gate railings, unable to move forward or backward. “Are you stuck?”

Wriggling his body a little, Ember shook his head. “Not yet, but I think if we continue any further down this street I will be.” Lifting one of his hind legs, he moved backward, the crack of stone sounding along with the fall of his claw.

A scream erupted from the window beside Ember, muffled by his body, but still loud enough to ring across the city. The sound brought a mixture of emotion of Ember’s features, anger touched his eyes yet there was fear there also.

Rushing past Shining, Cadence moved towards the sound and found a house open to the street, Ember’s tail having sliced a chunk of grey stone from the side. She squeezed through the tight gap between Ember and the wall to step inside.

The screaming died away when the dragon who it came from saw Cadence. A smile lit up the dull purple muzzle, a dragon several times taller than Cadence stepping forth to bow at her hooves. “Thank you for coming to save me princess, I thought I was as good as dead when I saw Ember tearing open my home.”

“There’s no need to worry.” Cadence’s voice was soft as she extended a hoof, resting it on the dragon’s shoulder. “Ember isn’t here to hurt you, he’s changed.”

The dragon stared at Cadence for a moment before shuffling backwards, head shaking. “You must being mad princess, a monster like that cannot change. No matter how hard he tries he will always be a monster.”

“No.” Concern creased Cadence’s brow as she closed the gap between her and the dragon once more, trying to lay a comforting hoof on the purple scaled shoulder. “He can change, anyone can change. They just need a little help.”

Still shaking her head the dragon stood, stumbling backward towards the door at the far end of the room. “You’re mad princess. I tell you a monster is always a monster, not matter what spells you cast on him.” She disappeared through the doorway before Cadence could respond.

Standing still as a statue, Cadence stared at empty air for a moment, her joy fading away, before turning back to the gash in the wall, Ember’s bright red leg outside. She moved towards him, her steps feeling heavy, like she was wading through water.

Outside Cadence found Ember’s gaze waiting for her, one full of confusion, like a foal that wanted the affirmation of its mother. “Am I still a monster, princess?”

Shining stood a few steps down the street, Cloud and Skylight with him, all looking to her, waiting for an answer.

“No,” Cadence eventually managed to say, as much to convince the others as herself, the doubting words of the purple dragon filling her mind. Cries of terror that had followed them through the street coming back to her also. He’s not a monster, She told herself. He’s changed, right?

“You’re no worse than I was.” Skylight’s voice brought a flood of relief to Cadence’s mind, someone to join her side in the argument, to stand up for her when she seemed alone.

A chuckle filled the air, Shining’s eyes meeting Skylight’s. “You’re still pretty bad if you ask me.” The comment earned him a kick from Skylight, but brought a smile to Cadence’s lips.

Looking down at Skylight, Embers brow creased with confusion. “You were a killer?”

Shining chuckled while Skylight shook her head. “No. But I was one mean pony. I have to hold back my anger sometimes.”

Still staring at Skylight, the barest hint of a smile touched Ember’s lips. “I know what you mean. I used to release my rage whenever it came to me, but now. Holding it back takes more strength than I could have imagined.”

“It’ll get easier with time,” Cadence assured him, touching a hoof to his hind leg. “Now why don’t we move out of this street? Find an easier way to get to that music.”

Unable to turn, Ember was forced to carefully step backward, Cadence guiding him down the narrow street. Once it had opened up enough to fit the full length of his body, Ember gladly turned, relief leaving his lungs as a breath.

“It makes me think of all the dragons I held in chains,” He said as they continued out of the street, this time with Ember walking forward. “Unable to do anything.”

Feeling a pang of guilt in her stomach, Cadence looked up at the dragon, “Well I’m sorry for getting you stuck in there. I’ve never had to think about the size of a street before.”

Ember glanced back at the street behind him, the wall he had torn into hidden by the twisting corners. “Don’t be, I think it is good to feel the pains of my victims. It pushes me further and further away from ever doing those things again.”

The city still murmured around them as they walked, screams piercing the hum less and less as news of Ember’s presence spread. Cadence could feel the eyes on them as they walked, a strange pressing from all around.

Remembering why they had come, she lifted her ear once more, ignoring the dull drone of voices and listening for that clicking beat. Where did it go? She looked to her side where Shining walked. “Can you hear music anymore?”

He smiled back, head shaking. “I could never hear it in the first place, but I’m sure there’s more, somewhere in this city.”

The streets all seemed to blur into one as they walked, Cadence unable to tell where one ended and another began. She kept her ears pricked up, searching for a beat, a melodious sound, any form of music that could lead her.

“I think I can hear something!” Cadence exclaimed after what seemed like hours, the sun nearing noon above. The pegasus pair had grown tired of their slow progression and now looped higher in the sky above, chasing each other, their giggling filling the air.

Still walking beside and behind her, Shining and Ember stopped, looking to Cadence as she closed her eyes, concentrating on the sound. Doing the same, Shining heard nothing but the murmur of voices and the beating of wings above. “I still can’t hear any music.”

Glancing between the two, Ember tilted his head upward as well, stilling his own breath, and simply waiting for the sound to reach him. It crept underneath the hum of voices, the breathy whimpering coming from the home beside. A rhythmic clicking, like the sound of stone on stone, he felt his head moving to it, a subtle bob up and down.

“Well you must have too much fur in your ears.” Cadence’s voice drowned out the beat. “It’s there, I can hear it.” Looking up to Ember, she found the dragon with his eyes closed, head still moving to the soft sound. “See, Ember can hear it.”

The mention of his name broke Ember from his trance, eyes opening to Cadence staring up at him. “Is this the music you have been searching for?”

“Mmhmm.” Cadence nodded. “Though we can only hear a little part of it, there’ll be many other instruments keeping time with that beat. It’s a beautiful thing.” Turning away from Ember, Cadence chose the street which the sound was coming from, thankfully plenty wide for Ember. “Now let’s find where it is.”

Cadence felt her steps quickening as she stalked her prey, one ear focused on the ever loudening tapping. Doors and windows passed by without her notice, not a scream sounding but all eyes watching Ember with fear, waiting for him to attack.

The street grew wider as they continued down it, doors showing themselves less and less, the buildings made of more polished obsidian, reflecting the sun’s shine. Still the beat grew louder, but no other instruments joined it, only a softer tapping, between each loud click, rounding out the sound, filling in the higher pitch.

Ahead, a low grey building stepped around the corner to meet them, out of place amongst the taller, pristine obsidian structures that surrounded it. Scorched and scarred, the building stood at half the height of Ember.

A single door was the only obvious sign of entrance, shadow filled it, tainted with irregular flashes of light, green and gold, red and blue.

Slowing her pace, Cadence stepped cautiously towards the open door. Why can I not hear any strings? She wondered, the rhythmic sound unlike anything she had heard before. It seemed to take hold of her body, make her limbs want to move.

Cadence stopped a step in front of the door before looking back to Ember. “Can you wait out here?” The entrance stood almost twice as tall as her, barely able to fit more than Ember’s head. “I want to see if this is where dragons dance, I’ll be right back.”

A gasp met her ears, drawing Cadence’s eyes away from Ember and further down the street. There stood a dragon of dull golden scales, his bright blue eyes flicking between Ember and Cadence. Patches of other color, bright green and a red similar to Ember’s scales, were splashed over his body.

“Ponies?” The word left the dragon’s lips as he stepped forward, question creasing his brow. “What are ponies doing in Rockholm?”

Expecting the dragon to run at the sight of Ember, Cadence felt the twist of worry in her stomach fade away, a smile filling her muzzle. “I’m visiting from Canterlot by Princess Celestia’s orders.”

Shaking his head at Cadence’s voice, the creases on the dragon’s features deepened. “I don’t know what what you just said, but I like your color.” Standing before Cadence now, he rose a head or two above her, seemingly oblivious of the great red beast beside him. “Where did you get the dye from?”

Cadence’s smile widened as she looked down at her own coat. “Well, thank you, but it’s natural, not dyed.” Lifting her eyes back up to meet the dragon’s, she gestured with her head inside. “Anyway, I was wondering if this is a place where dragons come to dance.”

“It sure is.” Nodding, the dragon turned towards the door, motioning towards it with his claw. “Why don’t you come inside, everyone’s welcome.” With that said, he disappeared into the shadow, the beat inside soon drowning out his steps.

Shaking her head, Cadence swung her eyes back to Shining and Ember. “Well that was strange, he didn’t even seem to know who you were Ember, or that there are ponies in Rockholm.”

“There’s probably more than one world in this city,” Shining said, his mind drifting to memories of Canterlot. “Like back home, when we went to that dress shop. That mare told us about a whole heap of troubles we had no idea of, just like she had no idea of what was happening in the guards. Two worlds existing without realising the other is there.”

Gazing down at the rambling unicorn, Ember’s brow creased. “You mean there are dragons in this city who don’t know the terror I’ve caused?”

“For sure. That dragon seemed to have no idea.” Shining looked back to Cadence. “Do you still want to go inside? We already know this is a place for dancing.”

Eyes flicking between Shining and the shadowy doorway, Cadence nodded, her lips smiling. “Mmhmm, I want to make sure this will be good for Obsidian.” The moment the name left her mouth Cadence winced, peeking from the corner of her eye at Ember.

“Obsidian?” It rolled off Ember’s tongue as an almost whisper, his eyes flickering with memories, old and young. “All this is to help my father?”

Cadence’s shoulders heaved with a heavy sigh. “Yes. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you, but I’m helping your father with some issues of his also. So he can be a better father for you.”

Staring into the distance, Ember’s breathing softened until it was as if he were dead, blinking eyelids the only sign he was still alive. “You are staying at the palace?”

“Well, yes.” Cadence’s features creased with confusion. “I thought you already knew that?”

“The room felt familiar, but it did not cross my mind to wonder why. I have pushed my memories of that place deep down. I had not even thought of meeting my father.” Still looking at some distant object, Ember sunk to the ground. “Go, I need time to think of this.”

Nodding, Cadence nudged Shining with her shoulder before moving towards the entrance she had been longing to enter.

“Are you just going to leave him like that?” Shining’s voice met her ear as they carefully made their way down a set of stairs too large for their legs.

“He wanted to be alone.” Hearing her own words, Cadence felt a pang of guilt. “And I don’t even know what to say, I need some time to think about this myself.” By now the beat was filling both ponies’ ears, drowning out Cadences words.

“What did you say?” Shining questioned, leaning his head closer to her muzzle.

Forcing herself to smile, Cadence pressed her muzzle into Shining’s ear. “Don’t worry about it, let’s have a little fun.”

Ahead of them the stairs were momentarily lit up with flashes of light, greens and blues, yellows and reds. The beat was spiced with a higher pitched melody, each sound growing louder and louder as they descended.

Cadence could feel the noise thumping in her chest by the time she and Shining reached the base of the stairs, like a second heart beat it filled her ears almost painfully. Yet despite the overwhelming sound, he body felt as if it were alive with magic, wanting to move along with the music all around.

Yes, music, She thought. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever heard, but it’s still music. Ahead of her she saw a writhing mass of scales, their colors hard to distinguish in the dim light. A flash exploded at the far end of the room, washing the bodies with bright green.

Enticed by the sound and the movement, Cadence stepped forward, the touch of Shining at her side. She could feel him moving too, a subtle pulse throbbing through his body in time with the beat.

Skirting the edge of the crowd, they found themselves up against a wall, unable to move any further forward, unable to see the source of the music. Pulling Shining closer to her, Cadence pressed her muzzle into his ear.

“Why don’t we move back into the space? We can dance there.”

At his nod they both moved towards the door and the open area that was there. By instinct Cadence turned to face Shining, allowing her head to rest in the cradle of his neck, her hooves moving through steps they knew well.

Shining took the lead, moving her through the waltz, but his timing was offput by the beat that throbbed in their ears, the two ending up as a tangle of hooves on the floor. Helping Cadence up, Shining held his lips close to her ear.

“I don’t think the dancing we know will work with this.” He motioned with a hoof towards the mass of moving bodies, bouncing up and down as if they shared one mind. “Why don’t we try what they’re doing?”

Standing still for a moment, the pair watched as bursts of light flashed across the crowd, giving them insight to what each individual was doing. Cadence felt the beat move up her body, the tapping of a hoof turned into the shifting of shoulders, every action in time with the music.

Beside her Shining seemed to be having more trouble than she, his hooves out of time with his head, and hips out of time with everything. Cuddling up close to him, Cadence pressed her lips into his ear. “It looks like you need some help there.”

Without waiting for a response, she snuggled her head into his neck, allowing the rhythmic movement of her body to guide him. A gentle nudge in this direction or that helping Shining stay in time, their bodies moving as one.

Cadence felt the worries she held slipping from her mind. The sensation of Shining against her, the two of them moving together, lulling her into a trance. The harmony that filled the air changed again and again, but the same beat remained, Cadence allowing it to guide her body.

A touch on her withers opened the eyes Cadence hadn’t realised she’d closed. Why can’t we just be left alone, She thought as she pulled her head from underneath Shining’s, turning towards the touch.

Her eyes found Skylight’s features full of panic, Cloud in a similar state behind her. The sight of the two brought the day’s events back to the surface of Cadence’s mind. Has something happened? Oh I hope Ember hasn’t gone crazy.

Lips moved but the overwhelming sound of music drowned out all others, Cadence shaking her head at Skylight and motioning up the stairs. Watching the pegasus pair disappear from sight, Cadence nudged Shining in front of her before following.

At the base of the stairs she turned back, taking in the scene one last time. Is this what Obsidian meant when he talked of dancing? She tried to picture his hulking black body in the crowd, but found the roof was too low, the crowd too tight for him to fit. Maybe not?

Stepping back into the sunlight was a splash of icy water for Cadence, her eyes squinting as they adjusted to the bright light, ears feeling hollow from the lack of thumping noise. Skylight stood a few steps away, lips moving but Cadence could hear no words.
Skylight’s brow creased when Cadence failed to respond. Shaking her head, she spoke again, this time on the verge of shouting. “Why did you two leave Ember alone for that long?”

This time Cadence heard her, like the call of someone standing at the horizon. Tilting her head to the side, Cadence rubbed at an ear, hoping to clear her apparent deafness away. “How long were we in there for? It only felt like a moment or two.”

Wincing at Cadence’s yelling, Skylight motioned towards the sky with a wing.

Eyes following, Cadence gasped when she saw the sun, past its peak and sinking once more. How could we have been in there for so long? Ignoring the guilt she felt swirling in her stomach, she looked back down to Skylight. “What has Ember done? Where is he?”

Gritting her teeth against the loud words, Skylight moved closer to Cadence, holding her muzzle close to a pink ear. “It wasn’t what he did. Some dragon scared him off.”

Features lining with confusion, Cadence lowered her voice until it was only a dull murmur in her ears. “How? What did they do?”

Skylight felt her cheek brush against Cadence’s as she shook her head. “We didn’t see. I heard yelling below and saw Ember flying away. There was a dragon down of the ground laughing.”

“Did you ask him what he did?” Cadence felt her mind racing. What would he have done that would frighten Ember away? Why would anyone be foolish enough to provoke him anyway?

Head falling a little, Skylight’s voice softened in Cadence’s ears. “I tried, but he spat and flew away. We followed him, but he disappeared in the city.”

Her head falling as well, Cadence felt the weight of a sigh leave her lungs. “Well, all we can do is look for Ember now, hopefully he won’t be bitter about us abandoning him.” In her stomach she felt the want to be sick, the poison of her guilt swirling inside.

They found him outside the city, curled up at the great cavern he had hid inside the previous day. Quakes shook his body, the choking sound of sobbing filling the air with each one.

Climbing off of Skylight’s back, Cadence stepped towards him slowly while the other three stood back, wary and watching.

“Ember?” She could hear the soft tone of her voice now, ears almost completely recovered. “Are you okay Ember?” Of course he’s not okay, Cadence found herself thinking the moment the words left her lips. One look can tell me that.

The quakes stilled at the sound of Cadence’s voice, Ember unwrapping himself and rising till he towered high above Cadence. Wetness glistened on the red scales of his cheeks, bright golden eyes swollen. “No. I do not know if I will ever be okay princess. How can a monster like me be okay?”

Cadence winced at the word. “You’re not a monster Ember, you’ve changed, and are still changing.” Seeing no conviction in Ember’s eyes, Cadence stopped her speech and breathed deeply, allowing her thoughts to settle. “What happened?”

“A dragon told me the truth, monsters never change.” Ember’s shoulders sank as he sighed. “I’ll never change.”

“But you have changed Ember,” Cadence realised as she spoke. “The old you would have killed that dragon, not run.”

A smile crept across Ember’s lips as realisation widened his eyes. “You’re right.” His chest shook, carrying a chuckle with the movement. “I would have destroyed everything around me before leaving. I have changed.”

“Mmhmm.” Nodding, Cadence looked to the sky, the sun closer to the horizon than its peak. She lowered her eyes, glancing back at the three behind her. “Well, it looks like we’ve still got time to search the city.” Turning back to Ember, a comforting smile touched her lips. “Do you want to come?”

Ember shook his head. “I have had enough of that city for today, and it enough of me. My body is still weary also.”

“Tomorrow then?”

“I would be glad to join you tomorrow, and the next day. For however long you choose to stay.”

A proud and joyful warmth filled Cadence’s chest as Skylight carried her back towards the palace. I think we’ve had enough of the city as well, She had decided before they set off, the dull throbbing in her ears bringing pain to her head.

Their balcony came within sight quickly at the pace Skylight and Cloud set, just below gut wrenching. A body of sapphire scales stood waiting for them.

Flo! The thought came to Cadence’s head with a hint of guilt, the dragon slipping her mind after the day’s distractions. Oh I hope she’s alright. We left her alone for the whole day.

As they neared Cadence managed to make out the emotion on Flo’s features. She’s worried, Cadence knew. Oh I hope our disappearance didn’t trouble her.

“Princess!” Flo dove for Cadence the moment she dismounted from Skylight. “Princess I’ve been so worried about you all day. There were dragons here and-”

Holding a hoof up to Flo’s lips, Cadence stopped the rush of words coming from them. “Slow down Flo. I’m back now and I’m okay.”

Flo’s eyes bulged as if her head was about to burst, her head shaking as she pulled away from Cadence’s touch. “But there were dragons here.”

“Oh, that was just Ember. We invited him here to talk.” Lifting her now hanging hoof, Cadence reached forward and patted Flo’s head. “Were you hiding from him.”

A huff left Flo’s lips, her face twisting with a frown. “I was. He’s still scary, but that not the dragon I meant. After you left I was coming out of my hiding spot. Then I heard someone flying back. So I hid again.”

Concern creased Cadence’s brow, glancing sideways, she looked into the room. “Other dragons?” Turning back to Flo, she smiled at a thought. “Well they were probably servants, here to clean our rooms.”

“No. No. No.” Flo’s whole body shook as she swung her neck back and forth. “I heard them. They said bad things about you princess.” A shiver stopped Flo’s shaking, her eyes glancing up at the sky before looking back to Cadence. “They said. They said they are going to kill you.”

At first Cadence’s mind tried to deny Flo’s accusations. She must be imagining things, why would anyone want to kill me? “Are you sure Flo? What exactly did they say?”

“I’m sure. One was like,” Flo straightened herself up, face twisting with a frown. “Why did this princess have to cause all this trouble.” The growly voice that came from her lips would have made Cadence laugh if not for the words it carried.

“Well, not liking me doesn’t mean they are going to kill me.”

“Shhh.” Holding a talon to her lips, Flo pouted. “I wasn’t finished. The other said,” She adopted the same posture, but her voice was different, silky instead of a grumble. “She’ll be gone soon. Once we’ve got what we need The Whispering Wings to take care of her within a week.”

“Why such a long time?” The other voice grumbled, Flo switched between them perfectly. “We need Ember to attack the city again, otherwise we won’t have an excuse to take over. My dragons can’t wait forever.”

“Maybe if you hadn’t have taken to long to arrive,” Silk hissed back. “A week earlier and we would not have this princess to worry about.” He sighed. “This is no time for fighting, let’s get what we came here for.”

Flo returned to her regular voice, shoulders sinking and eyes falling. “Then all I could hear was them walking around. They shifted some stuff as well.”

Still digesting what Flo had said, Cadence glanced back into their room. “Did you see what they had done after they left?”

“No.”

Shining was moving ahead of Cadence’s thoughts, stepping towards their saddlebags while Cloud and Skylight headed for their tent. Following them, Cadence took her bags when Shining held them before her, searching through.

Celestia’s writings are still here, She thought as she searched through, picking out the few contents. As well as all our bits. “I’m not missing anything,” She called out, looking to the others.

The bags Shining held had been empty that morning, nothing new placed inside. Skylight and Cloud had torn their tent apart, the scent of sweat emanating from it. Not wanting to strike upon anything personal, Cadence stood back and watched, Flo joining her.

After a time Skylight looked up at them, shaking her head. “Nothing's missing here either.”

Sighing, Cadence’s shoulders sunk. “What would they have come here for then?” When no one answered her, she turned back to Flo. “Do you have any idea?”

“No.”

“Well, we’ll have to wait and find out then.” Allowing the weight of her body to pull her downward, she sat, Flo doing the same and Shining joining the two. There was something else I wanted to ask about, wasn’t there? “Oh. Flo, you mentioned The Whispering Wings? Who are they?”

“They kill dragons for gold.” Flo responded, fear tainting her voice. “I’ve never seen them. I hear stories though. Blind dragons that hunt you by smelling.” She shivered, cuddling up close to Cadence. “You never hear them until you’re dead.”

Glancing to her other side, Cadence met Shining’s eyes, worrying creasing her brow. “Why would someone want to kill us?”

“You heard what Flo said, they want to take over the city and you’re the one standing in their way.” Lowering his eyes to the stone below, Shining shook his head. “We’re going to have to be watchful for the next week. I can’t have you and Skylight going off alone anymore.”

“We don’t need to worry Shining,” Cadence assured, her hoof lifting his chin. “Celestia will always be protecting us.”

“I know, but we want to be as careful as we can anyway. You never know what’s happening back in Canterlot.” Rising to his hooves, he stepped towards the hallway door before feeling at it with his hoof. Finding no obvious lock, he looked back to Flo and Cadence, the pair watching him. “Is there any way to lock this Flo?”

She shrugged. “I don’t know. I’ve never stayed in a castle before. The doors are different from other ones.”

Nodding at her words, Shining stepped back from the door, lighting his horn and lining the frame with his blue.

“Shining?” Cadence called at him, silencing his magic as he turned to listen. “What are you doing?”

“Sealing off the door, to make sure no one can enter.”

Standing herself, Cadence moved towards him, draping a foreleg over his withers as she came close. “Shining, there’s no need for this. Why don’t we tell tell Obsidian. He can arrange a guard for us.”

“I don’t know if I can trust the guards here, some of them could be in on this plot.”

“We should talk with Obsidian anyway.” Skylight’s voice met them from across the room, the pegasus pair coming to meet them. “He’s in danger also.”

Pressing her hoof into the door before them, Cadence nodded. “That would be best. I wonder how we can tell him this without sounding crazy.”

“Have you been speaking with Brazen?” Obsidian glanced sideways, where his sandy scaled advisor stood, a small smile on his lips. “You sound like one not sane princess.” They had interrupted a meeting between the two, Obsidian meaning to dismiss them until he saw the urgency chiseled into Cadence’s face.

“I know it sounds crazy but you must believe us. They want to overthrow you and use Ember as an excuse.”

Bringing a claw to his head, Obsidian rubbed at one of his scales. “How did you hear of these things? Surely they were not speaking them before you.”

“Flo told us, she was hiding in our room when they came in. Apparently she heard the whole thing.”

“Flo?” Obsidian looked at Cadence with question for a moment. “The stowaway?”

Cadence nodded, still holding Obsidian’s eyes.

“Are of absolute certainty that we can count on this dragon’s word?” Motioning towards his advisor with a claw, Obsidian shook his head. “Brazen already has half the guard assigned to wild chases due to his dreams of plots.”

“I assure you king,” Brazen defended. “I only wish to keep you safe.”

Turning to meet Brazen’s eye, the hint of a fond smile touched at Obsidian’s lips. “I know you do it out of good will, but when my life is ruled by these imaginings I do grow tired of them.” His expression was all duty when he looked back to Cadence. “That is why I need you to be certain of this.”

Twisting her head to the side, Cadence met Shining’s eyes and found a nod. “Well, we have no reason not to trust her, and I could tell by the way she told us. This is not a dragon’s wild imagination.”

“Very well.” Obsidian’s shoulders rose and fell in time with a heavy breath. “Did she tell you of the dragons’ appearances? There is a possibility it is a dragon I know.”

Cadence shook her head. “She said she couldn’t see anything from where she hid, only hear their voices.”

“Then all I can do is warn the guard and stay watchful. You mentioned they paid for your deaths, would you like protection also?”

“No,” Shining answered before Cadence could move her lips. “We can stay safe on our own.”

“I understand your fears.” Obsidian dipped his head before returning his eyes to Brazen. “And if this is all that is urgent, I must return to my meeting. Brazen has been patient.”

Turning, Cadence found Skylight and Cloud already moving towards the door, Shining a step before her. “Good night Obsidian. I hope you have a safe sleep.”

“I wish you the same,” Obsidian called back at the disappearing group.

Upstairs once more, Cadence jumped when Flo ambushed her at the door, the ringing of Shining’s horn filling the air before he realised who it was.

“You shouldn’t scare us like that Flo,” Cadence warned as she stepped inside, the others following. “Especially after what you told us.”

“Sorry.” Flo’s lips were spread with a smile, her body cuddled into Cadence’s. “I was so happy to see you safe. I couldn’t help it.”

Cadence felt the smile spreading to her own lips. “I know, I’m glad to see you too, but be careful. We’re all on edge right now.” Looking up, Cadence found the sun outside was dipping below the horizon, its golden glory still gleaming over the mountains.

Between her and the balcony Shining was forming their tent, its blue roof covering the mattress below.

Moving towards him, Cadence felt her brow creasing. “Shining? Why are you putting the tent up? We’re inside.”

“I know.” Shining looked up from his work, meeting the approaching Cadence and Flo with his eyes. “But I was thinking, when we were on the mountain and those lizards attacked us, the tent didn’t allow them inside. Maybe it will protect us from these Whispering Wings also.”

Moving to stand beside the tent as well, Skylight poked her hoof through the wall. “Are you sure?” Cloud copied her, his whole body following the hoof as he stepped onto the mattress.

“It’s definitely protected us before,” Shining said as he stepped through himself. “But I have no idea how it works on dragons.”

“I do!” Leaving Cadence’s side, Flo leapt towards the tent wall, passing through with a sign of hinderance and bouncing on the mattress beyond. “We can get through.”

Looking at Flo bouncing beside him, Shining allowed a sigh to leave his lips. “That doesn’t look too good, but it’s the best protection we’ve got.”

“It seems so.” Moving through the tent herself, Cadence stood beside Shining. She leant into him for comfort, her eyes finding Cloud and Skylight still standing near the door. “Do you two have any ideas on how to stay safe?”

“Set a watch,” Skylight responded in an instant, Cloud showing his agreement with a nod. “We take turns staying awake. If you see anything, wake the others.”

“That would be best.” The grumble of Shining’s stomach followed his words, bringing a soft laughter to Cadence’s lips.

“Well, we might have to bother Obsidian for one more thing tonight.” Stepping away from Shining’s side, she moved towards the door before turning back to meet the eyes watching her. “I’ll go get something, you three keep planning.”

As she turned to step through the door, Cadence felt Flo at her side. The dragon’s lips formed a pout. “You can’t go without protection princess.”

“She’s right,” Skylight said, following Cadence towards the door. “You two prepare while we get food.”

The sight that met Cadence’s eyes when she stepped back through the door to their room brought a smile to her lips. “What have you two done?”

Stopping their work, the two stallions looked up to their approaching partners, and the steaming pies held in blue behind them. Around them they had constructed what appeared to be three different tents, one holding Skylight and Cloud’s tent, the other a glowing mattress. A third, much smaller than the others, sat near the centre of the two.

Shining spoke first. “Cloud and I thought that even if the tents don’t stop the dragons from reaching us, it might do something to their sense of smell.”

Nodding alongside him, Cloud continued, “Flo mentioned they’re blind dragons, and that the rely entirely on the scent of their victim to hunt them.”

Lifting her snout towards the roof, Cadence inhaled noisily before smiling. “I can still smell both of you from here.”

Testing the air with his own snout, Shining realised the scent of the pies was reaching him. “I guess all we can do is eat those pies and hope they don’t come for us then.”

Cloud’s cards were produced from his bag as the five settled down to eat, all of them thankful for the distraction.

“Apples and cinnamon,” Shining mumbled as he ate, eyes unfocusing and mouth overflowing with saliva. The pie held in his magic was soon finished, his attention shifting to the one Cadence nibbled at.

Feeling his gaze, Cadence looked up and giggled. “Do you want some more?”

Surprise filled Shining’s features. “Really?”

“Mmhmm,” Cadence nodded, tearing a chunk from her meal and holding it before him. “With all this stress I’m not exactly hungry.”

“I love you Cadence.” Shining moaned once more as the sweet taste filled his mouth, earning him a shake of Skylight’s head.

The cards all out before him, and the remainder of his pie disappearing down his throat, Cloud looked around at the other three ponies. “Are you all ready to play?”

Cadence found herself with the deck of dragons, Shining’s changelings joining her forces. The hand she drew had her eyes wide, a gasp filling her lungs. Can I win right now? The thought crossed her mind, unsure at first, but growing more and more certain as she studied the cards before her, mind playing through the possible scenarios.

A sickly swirl of nerves building her in stomach, she watched with held breath as Cloud passed his turn, unable to play. “I’ve got nothing either,” Shining said, a wave of his hoof signalling the end of his turn. The shake of Skylight’s head and the three were looking to Cadence, waiting for her move.

Releasing the breath she had been holding, Cadence carefully laid her first card on the ethereal table. The Spreading of Fire, its name read, the picture underneath depicting a spark touching against a wooden door. Use the strength of your castle as rage.

Looking at the card, Shining shook his head. “Are you sure you want to use that Cadence? We’ll probably destroy ourselves before them.”

“Trust me,” Cadence replied without looking up from her cards. “I know what I’m doing.” Saying that she placed another card on the table before her. Boiling Beast, it was named. Pay X rage to give this dragon X health. You may remove two health from this dragon for one anger.

“I’m going to take all of our castle’s strength but one,” Cadence said, bringing a smile to Cloud’s lips and worry to Shining’s features. “And use the rage on this dragon.” Shifting the counters from their castle to her dragon magically, she laid down another card. “Unmatched Anger,” She read, removing some of the counters from her Boiling Beast as she did so.

The smile on Cloud’s face had now split into a grin and spread to Shining’s, the worry now filling Skylight’s features. Taking all but one counter from his and Skylight’s castle with a wing, Cloud looked back up to Cadence, waiting. “I assume you have a Breath of Flame still in your hand?”

At the nod of Cadence’s head Cloud placed his cards on the table. “Well done Cadence, I’ve only been lucky enough a few times to pull off that combination on the first turn. Swift and lethal.”

“Like the Whispering Wings.” Flo’s words pulled all eyes towards her, a shiver running along Cadence’s spine at the reminder of their situation.

Looking down at the game, Cadence shook her head, the sickness her stomach had so recently forgotten returning. “I don’t feel like playing any more. Why don’t we try getting some sleep.”

Noticing the worry that creased Cadence brow, Shining magically packed his cards away. “That sounds like a good idea. We want to be well rested if we’re going to be hunted.”

The cards packed away, Cadence dissipated the table with a flash of blue at her horn before standing, Shining beside her. So close their sides were touching, they moved towards their tent, Cadence thankful for his warming presence.

Looking up as she sat, Cadence saw Flo moving towards the still open balcony door. “Don’t you want to sleep inside tonight Flo?” She called out, stopping the dragon in her tracks and drawing her attention.

“No.” With a shake of her head Flo turned back towards the night and continued outside.

Cadence felt Shining lips against her ear, his whispering breath sending a tingling down her spine. “Can you talk to her? I’d feel a lot safer if we could close those doors tonight.”

Legs heavy and unwilling, Cadence rose and followed Flo, the night air’s cool nip giving her energy. “Flo?”

Twisting her neck back, Flo met Cadence’s eyes with a sad smile. “I know you want me inside princess, but I can’t.”

The words took the breath from Cadence’s lungs, her jaw hanging loose for a moment, not knowing what to say. “Are you afraid?” She said eventually. I know I am. To her surprise Flo shook her head before looking up at the moon above, a few early stars already joining it.

“They’re taking care of me. I’m not afraid of anything.”

Following Flo’s gaze, Cadence found her eyes tracing through the stars, searching for the few constellations Celestia had taught her. “Who are they?”

A laboured breath filled the air, like Flo was breathing through an ocean. “Mom and dad.” Looking down at her, Cadence found the scales of her cheeks were glistening, as were her eyes, reflecting the moonlight. “He said they’d always be watching.”

Feeling a tug at her heart, Cadence allowed her foreleg to move over Flo’s back, pulling her close enough to sense the warmth of Flo’s scales against her coat. “Oh Flo. How long have you been alone?”

Tearing her eyes away from the sky, Flo rubbed at her eyes with a claw before meeting Cadence’s. “I’m never alone princess. Someone’s always there. Even if I can’t see them.”

Oh Flo. Cadence bit at her lips, holding back her want to cry as she stared at the smiling dragon. You’re such a brave little dragon. Taking a deep breath, she swallowed back her tears. “Well, I know you want to sleep out here, but wouldn’t it be safer to be inside with the door closed.”

Flo shook her head as she looked back out over the city. “Doors don’t stop The Whispering Wings. Some dragon hid in an innkeeper’s safe one time. Paid a lot of gold. I still heard his screams that night. I saw them carry his ashes out in the morning.”

The nerves in Cadence’s stomach wound themselves even tighter at the tale. I guess those tents are our only hope. “So you’re sure you’ll be safe out here.”

Nodding so slightly Cadence could barely notice it, Flo inhaled deeply. “It’s not me they want. They only kill their target.”

A shudder rocked Cadence’s body, an image flashing in her mind for a moment. Her splayed out dead on the mattress, Shining raining tears over her body. Shaking the image away, she stood. No, I won’t die here. “Well, good night then Flo.”

“Good night princess. Be safe.”

Stepping back inside, Cadence found three pairs of eyes waiting for her.

“We’ve decided that I’ll take the first watch,” Shining said, his face stern, free from its usual humour. “Cloud will then take over for me, then Skylight, then you. If anyone sees anything we wake everyone.” He motioned towards the balcony with a hoof. “Could you not manage to convince her?”

“Well, no.” Cadence glanced back to Flo, curled up against the railing, peeking over the city. “But she told me closing the door won’t make a difference. The Whispering Wings can get through any lock.”

“But she’ll be in danger sleeping out there,” Shining protested.

The shake of Cadence’s head dismissed his words. “I said that too, but she said they only go after their target. They’ll only be hunting me.” She saw anguish twist at Shining’s features as she moved to sit beside him.

“Only you?” He breathed. “How could they be so cruel.” His words were so soft Cloud nor Skylight could hear them.

Placing her lips at his ear, Cadence whispered back. “I know, I’m more worried about you than myself.”

“We’re sleeping now.”

Skylight’s voice broke both Cadence and Shining out of their private sorrow. “Right, I’ll wake you later Cloud.” Shining said, touching his lips to Cadence’s cheek before lowering his voice to a whisper. “You should get some sleep too, and don’t worry about me. I won’t let them touch you.”

Nodding, Cadence returned the kiss before lowering her head to the mattress, curling up against Shining. The slimy feeling of worry still filled her stomach, nightmares of what could happen before morning swirling in her head.

No! She pushed them away with the thought of sunrise, a picture she had seen hundreds of times before. I’m going to make it through this night. The slow stroking of Shining’s hoof against her mane gave her something to focus on, his comforting touch keeping her worries at bay.

“No matter what happens Cadence,” She felt his breath in her ear. “I love you.”

“I love you too Shining.” She murmured back, allowing the weight of sleep to overcome her body.

Life After Death

The voice shattered the images before Cadence, her dreams fading back into dust, memories of them gone before she realised.

“Cadence!”

The shaking of a hoof against Cadence’s side caused her eyes to flicker open, the glowing blue of their tent filling her vision. In an instant the previous day’s memories overflowed into her consciousness, alarm coming with them.

Pushing herself upright, she glanced around, eyes wide. “What is it? Have they come?” Her heart raced in her chest, limbs burning with adrenaline.

“No.” The whispering of Skylight made Cadence realise how loud her own voice was, bringing her hooves up to cover her lips. “It’s your watch.” Skylight rose as she spoke, passing the ethereal barrier between each tent.

Silent, Cadence watched as Skylight disappeared into her and Cloud’s shared tent. The flap fell shut, leaving her alone in wakefulness. Shining’s soft breathing kept her company as she gathered herself, taking in the room about her.

It was the same as it had been before she fell into sleep. What did I expect? Cadence thought as she stood. A room covered in bodies and blood? The image flashed through her mind for a moment, bringing a wince to her lips. No, not that, but I expected something.

Arching her back, she allowed a monstrous yawn to leave her lips before stepping through the glowing blue lining of their tent and towards the still open balcony door. Curled up against her tail, Flo still rested in the centre, back rising and falling.

“It’s like nothing happened at all.” The words left Cadence’s lips like a breath as she gazed out over Rockholm, still cloaked in shadow. High above, the moon watched over her, its twinkling friends falling asleep one by one.

Her voice seemed to rouse Flo, the dragon shifting in her sleep. “Princess,” She mumbled under her breath, Cadence’s ears barely catching the words.

“Yes Flo?” Stepping towards the blue dragon, Cadence crouched beside her only to find the eyelids of sapphire still closed. Oh, she’s still asleep. Stealing a stroke from Flo’s neck, she rose and took one last glance over the city before turning back inside, the chill chasing her.

To Cadence’s surprise, Shining woke first. His eyelids starting open the moment sunlight hit them. Seeing her, a sleepy smile broke across his lips.

“I’m so happy you’re safe Cadence,” He said, moving forward to wrap her in his forelegs, his lips tasting hers. As he broke away Shining shook his head. “I had the worst dream over and over last night. I woke just in time to see Ember bite off your head.”

“Shining,” Leaning forward, she comforted him with another kiss. “You know Ember would never-”

A hoof against her lips silenced her. “I know, I know. I guess my mind just doesn’t know what these Whispering Wings look like. So Ember is what I go to.”

They sat for some time in silence, Cadence cradling Shining’s head to her chest, kissing at his ear and stroking his neck. A murmur from the tent beside them lifted their eyes to catch Cloud lifting the flap, Skylight following him.

“Did anyone see anything?” Skylight questioned while extending her wings, stretching every bit of sleep from her feathers.

“No.”

“Nothing at all.”

Cadence shook her head. “Same as those two, I watched Shining sleep most of the morning.”

“Thought so.” A groan left Skylight’s lips as she folded her wings back into her sides. “I’m actually disappointed.”

Lifting his head from Cadence’s caress, Shining glared at Skylight. “Really? You wanted killers to come for us last night?”

Skylight held up a hoof. “Not that. I wanted it to be over with. Beat them on the first night. Now we lose more sleep.”

“I guess you have-” A yawn caused Shining to pause. “A point.”

Laughter lightened the mood, smiles filling the lips of all four.

“Well why don’t we fetch breakfast?” Cadence suggested, gesturing towards the door. “That should keep you awake.”

“Ahh,” Releasing a content sigh, Shining allowed himself to fall back onto the cool obsidian floor. “These dragon chefs never stop amazing me with their creations.” Smudges of chocolate stained his lips, flakes of pastry completing the evidence.

Smiling at him, Cadence shook her head as she bit into the final quarter of her pie. “And you never stop amazing me with how quickly you eat them.” Laughter followed her words, causing a burst of pastry crumbs to leave her lips.

“I could beat him.” Skylight’s challenge lifted Shining from the floor into a sitting position, his eyes finding her pie dish still holding a sliver.

“Watching how slowly you eat, I doubt you could even finish half a pie before I do.”

A breath filled Skylight’s chest, lifting her shoulders, causing her wings to flare. “Lunchtime, I’ll beat you.”

Cadence met Cloud’s eyes and found the same thought there that filled her own mind. Why do these two have to do this now? Clearing her throat noisily, Cadence spoke. “Pie eating contests are fun, but we have more important matters to worry about right now.”

The words broke Shining and Skylight’s confrontational stare, drawing their eyes to Cadence. “Right,” Shining said, his features growing serious once more. “We should be thinking about how to keep you safe for the coming days.”

“Mmhmm.” Cadence nodded, rolling her eyes into her head. “I was thinking of asking Ember about The Whispering Wings, if anyone knows how to stop them it’ll be him.”

“I’m not so sure.” Cloud’s words drew the attention of the other three to him. “While Ember may have been the been the monster of this city for a long time, I don’t think he knew of anything else going on. He seemed to attack and leave. I have a feeling he won’t know any more than Flo on The Whispering Wings.”

“Well,” Cadence sighed, her shoulder slumping. “If no one has a better idea I’d like to see Ember today anyway, he worries me sometimes.” Silence was all the suggestion Cadence received, the other three ponies giving her blank stares. “Meeting with Ember it is then.”

Rising to her hooves, Cadence stepped towards the balcony, expecting to find Flo still resting there. Instead she found only grey stone. “Flo?” She called, worry tightening her stomach, causing her voice to shake. “Flo where are you?”

Cadence’s heart thumped in her chest, her overactive imagination conjuring images of shadowy dragons stealing Flo away. No! She cried out in her head, recalling what Flo had said the previous night. She said they’d only come for me. I thought they were only coming for me.

Beside her, Cadence felt Shining’s hoof on her shoulder, kneading at the tense muscles there. “I’m sure she just went for a walk, she’ll be back soon.” The tone of his voice failed to match the sureness of his words, worry residing there as well.

“Why would she leave without telling me though?” Cadence felt her voice slowing, throat tightening, the tops of her cheeks wetting with tears. “Surely she knows how much I’d worry if she just disappeared like this.”

On her other side, Cadence heard Skylight’s wings open. “I’ve got a better idea.”

The gesture brought a smile of Cadence’s lips, her tears quickly sniffed away. “Ember will have to wait.”

“No,” Cloud stepped up beside Skylight, stretching his wings also. “Another pair of wings will be a great help, and it’ll give Flo something to look for in the sky.”

The cobbles were familiar to her claws, every one an old friend greeting her as she raced through the city.

The princess will worry.

No matter how many times Flo shook her head she couldn’t rid her mind of the ever nagging thought. Everything will be better later, She mentally called back at it, hoping to convince herself. I’m doing this to keep her safe.

Still the thought prevailed, the knowing that her pink princess was soaring through the air right now, calling for her.

“Flo?”

Stopping in her tracks, Flo lifted an ear towards the sound. Did I hear that? Shaking her head, she forced herself to continue. No. I’m crazy. She isn’t calling for me.

Feeling the stone she was waiting for, chipped at a certain point, she swerved into an alleyway, Cadence’s voice chasing her.

“Flo, where are-”

The final words were drowned out by the walls tight on either side of her, giving the sickly sensation in Flo’s stomach some rest. This is for her, She reminded herself. I’m doing this for the princess.

At the end of the alley a tall wooden door waited for her, solid looking to the unfamiliar eye, but to those who knew it well completely open. A touch of a talon to the lower corner and a small hatch opened in the bottom, granting her entrance.

Flo felt the wood scratching at her scales as she squeezed through, darkness greeting her on the other side. I’m not small anymore. Feeling on all sides with her claws, she breathed relief when she felt the familiar wooden walls less than a leg’s reach away. It’s all still the same.

Scuttling on all fours, Flo moved forward until another flap of wood greeted her snout with a bump. Right where I remembered. Pushing with both claws, she lifted the wood, allowing the a flickering light to leak in.

“Astral?” The husky voice she knew well questioned her coming, the scraping of scales against wood signalling movement in the room beyond.

“Ah.. It’s me,” Flo called back after a short pause, one of the names she had grown so unaccustomed to now feeling unfamiliar.

A chuckling filled the room as Flo crawled into it, followed by the creaking of wood as weight fell back onto it. “Who else would it be, you’re the only one who knows that door, besides me. Where have you been Astral?”

“Hiding.” Picking herself up from the cobbled floor, Flo moved towards a barrel a few steps from her entrance. She climbed atop it and sat, the surface too small to curl upon as she once had. “Ember’s been crazy the last few days.”

“Hiding?” Another chuckle followed the word, gruff just like the dragon it came from. “I’ve heard tales about a hatchling your size and color keeping company with that pony princess. That doesn’t sound like hiding to me.”

Settled on the barrel, Flo lifted her eyes to take in full view of the room. Wood, She thought with the shake of her head. It looks like Drip has more. He had always been been wild about the stuff, claiming it enhanced the taste of his ale beyond the stone caskets his competitors used.

“You know how I survive.” Flo forced the words from her lips, every one tasting like betrayal. “Take what I can. Why would I refuse a pony?”

The excuse seemed to be enough for Drip however, his smile cracking open into a grin, another chuckle filling the air. “I knew it would be like that if it were you. Always after a bite to eat and some place safe to sleep under the stars you are.”

A deep breath ended his joy, features hardening as he leant forward in the wooden throne he had fashioned for himself. “I’ve heard she took Ember’s life and brought him back as her pet. Some dragons say they say him following her yesterday.”

“That’s not true. I didn’t come here to share talk though.” Flo shifted in her seat, glancing at the other entrance to the room, a door of dark mahogany, before looking back to Drip’s coal eyes. “I came for a favour.”

“A favour?” The words caused Drip to lean back in his seat, eyes widening and shock filling his features. “I never thought I’d hear that from you Astral, you never take more than you need.”

“This isn’t for me.”

A smile returned to Drip’s lips. “Is this for your new pony friend?”

The corner of Flo’s eye twitched, her gaze flicking down to the ground for an instant.

The smile on on Drip’s muzzle widened, his husky chuckling joining his words. “It is for her isn’t it? I never knew you’d be one to fall for a pony Astral.”

“It’s not like that!” Flo jolted after the shout left her mouth, surprised by the volume of her voice. Taking a moment to breathe, she continued with softer words. “I’m paying her back. She helped me.”

Holding up his claws, Drip shook his head. “Okay, okay, I get it, you don’t want to talk about it.” His forelegs came down to rest before him, eyes meeting Flo’s with curiosity. “So what is this favour you need?”

“Who is Flo?” Ember stared down at the four ponies standing before him, wary of their urgency.

“Oh,” The question sparked realisation in Cadence’s mind. “You’ve never met her have you. Well, she’s a dragon about as tall as I am. Her scales are blue, like sapphires.”

A smile crossed Ember’s muzzle. “Princess, that fits countless dragons in this city. I don’t think I’ll be of much help with your search. Besides, there must be a reason why I have never seen her, she will be afraid of me like so many others.”

“Yes, but,” Cadence bit a her lower lip, trying to form the storm of thoughts that filled her mind into a clear picture. “She’s been taken by The Whispering Wings, and we have no idea where they are.”

“We don’t know that for sure,” Cloud cut in. His eyes gazed at the sky over Ember’s shoulder, tracing the wisps of clouds that loitered here and there.

Looking back at him, Cadence nodded at the statement. “Yes, we don’t know they’ve taken her for sure, but who else would it be?” Turning to face Ember once more, she found him nodding slowly.

“Your friend does make a good point, what if Flo had simply chosen to disappear again? She did when I visited.”

Shoulders slumping, Cadence glanced from Cloud to Ember before allowing her eyes to fall to the ground. “You’re right, but I can’t help but worry for her. What if she has been taken by The Whispering Wings? What if she’s crying out for help right now? I can’t not look for her.”

“The Whispering Wings?” Drip hissed, rising from his seat and striding towards the door. Grasping the knob with his claws, he opened it a sliver to see before closing it once more. Heavy chains were lifted across the handle, holding it closed.

“You know my influence with The Whispering wings is shaky at best.” He whispered as he moved towards Flo, sitting on the floor before her. “To call off a target isn’t something I could do Flo.”

“You have to.” Flo felt the claw around her heart closing, each breath seeming more difficult. “I’ve done so much for you. Can’t you do this one thing?”

“I’m sorry Astral, I truly am.” Drip’s shoulders fell, his eyes leaving Flo’s and looking at the barrel below her. “But I prefer staying alive, and the only thing that would happen if I tried to stop this attack would be my death.”

Feeling tears coming to the corners of her eyes, Flo swung away from Drip and leapt from the barrel she sat upon. “Goodbye then,” She said with her back to him, unable to mask the tears in her voice, before disappearing through the way she had came.

A dark crawl and she burst back out into the alley, wiping streams from her cheeks with the back of a wing as she ran. Don’t cry, Flo told herself, sniffing back the tears. You’ll keep the princess safe. She’d do the same for you.

Leaving the alley she turned back onto the street, dashing through the twisting stone maze of Rockholm once more, each and every building familiar to her. A bakery flashed by, one who gave her leftover bread if she came. Another bakery passed on her other side, this one giving her only shouts and screams.

More and more familiar places passed her by, blooming flowers of fond and horrible memories in Flo’s mind, all blown away by the storm of worried thoughts. The princess is worrying about you. You left her behind and now The Whispering Wings killed her. Go back she wants you with her. You can’t save her.

Casting them aside, Flo focused on her goal, holding her mental torch high and fighting back the shadows that crept in on all sides. I’ve got to stop The Whispering Wings.

The cobbles beneath her claws rang with clicks as she ran, sensitive scales feeling each stone, telling Flo exactly where she was in her mental map of Rockholm.

Here, Flo knew the moment she felt a certain stone beneath her, so smooth it almost calmed her frantic mind. Swinging her body sideways she found another dragon in her path, his orange-yellow scaled side a step from her.

Unable to stop, she dove downward, scraping her scales against the cobbles below, wings tickling the dragon’s belly, before leaping back up and disappearing down the alley.

“Hey!”

The cry faded as Flo turned another corner, brushing the close encounter to the side and concentrating once more on her destination. Two deep scratches, she felt them in a cobble below and slowed to a stop.

A stone door stood beside her, identical to the dozen others that lined the alley, but for the cobble that marked it. Turning and stepping towards it, Flo traced the pattern in the door’s side, two scratches, each one followed by a click.

Nudging the stone open with a shoulder, she slipped inside, allowing the door to close behind her. The flicker of a flame lit up the hallway before her, leading her towards its light. At the end of the hall Flo found a dim room, a pit of fire at its centre.

Beside the fire lay a dragon of pitch black scales, curled up with a tail that seemed to be made of coal. An eyelid flicked open when Flo took a step forward, revealing a brilliant star of purple underneath.

“Silhouette?” The feminine voice was one Flo knew well, wary, always expecting the worst.

Stepping further into the light, Flo nodded. “It’s me Silvia.”

A smile split the black lips of Silvia as she sat up, gesturing towards the fire with the claw. “Long time no see my shadow. I don’t recall asking you here, why did you come?”

“I need some help.”

“Flo!”

Clutching tight to Skylight’s back, Cadence glided above the streets of Rockholm, her words made louder by the magic at her lips. Head nestled into Skylight’s shoulder, she scanned the city below, heart leaping at the sight of each blue scaled dragon.

One of a color almost identical to Flo’s stopped beneath them, lifting its head to meet Cadence’s eyes. Cadence’s heart sprang to life, filling her chest with frantic beats until she realised the eyes she was gazing into were emeralds instead of the sapphires she expected.

Feeling her heart sink, Cadence opened her lips and called again.

“Flo!”

Behind her Shining echoed the cry, his voice lacking the desperation hers carried, the force of longing not pushing his words across the city.

Cadence’s thoughts roamed as she strained her ears for a response, her conversation with Ember coming to mind.

Choosing to stay outside the city, Ember he scan the city walls. “I think it’s better if Rockholm has a break from me for a while,” He had said, a sigh chasing the words from his lips. “But I will do my best to search for you friend from out here. I’m looking for sapphires, right?”

“Princess!”

The cry cut Cadence’s memory short, her eyes lighting with joy as she looked for its source.

“There Skylight.” Pointing with a hoof, Cadence directed her pegasus mount towards one of the many streets below, where a dragon of sapphire scales stood. “It might be Flo.”

As they grew nearer Cadence’s chest tightened. It’s not her. Crestfallen, she almost called for Skylight to pull up, ignore the dragon in search for the one she really wanted. No, Cadence told herself, restraining her lips and forcing a smile to them. This dragon could be in need of your help, or maybe they know where Flo is?

“That isn’t her,” Skylight announced, stopping their descent a short distance above the ground. “Do you want to move on?”

“No.” Still looking down at the dragon below, Cadence pulled a foreleg away from Skylight’s neck to wave. “This dragon might know where Flo is.”

Shaking her head, Skylight dipped her wings and allowed them to drop the final distance to the ground, the click of hooves on cobbles filling the air. The sound of Cloud’s hooves followed soon after, he and Shining joining their mares.

“Oh princess.” The dragon stepped forth as Cadence dismounted Skylight, meeting her with begging eyes. Dressed in the same blue scales Flo wore, she towered a head and a half above Cadence, larger eyes and a smaller snout marking her as a dragoness. “I’m so thankful you came, I need your help.”

Wanting nothing more than to get right back on Skylight’s back and leave, Cadence gritted her teeth, forcing the weak smile on her lips to widen. These dragons need you too, you can’t abandon them now. “What happened? Has someone attacked your home? Stolen one of your foa-, I mean hatchlings?”

“No,” The dragon shook her head before turning her body sideways and motioning behind her with a claw. A fountain chiseled from smooth obsidian stood there, underneath an open window on the storey above. “I’ve heard you’re very strong, and I can’t manage to lift this fire fountain into my home.”

Turning back, she held Cadence’s widening eyes with begging ones once more. “Can you help with my troubles princess? I would be ever so grateful.”

Gritting her teeth even tighter, so tight they hurt, Cadence resisted the urge to scream in the dragon’s face. The urge release the flow of tears wanting to escape from her eyes and fall back into Shining’s grasp. She wasted our time for a fountain? How could she do such a thing? Flo’s out there all alone right now. How could she do this?

Instead she shook her head once before forcing calm words from her lips. “I’m sorry, but there are dragons in worse situations who need my help right now.” Oh Flo, please be safe. Images of Flo bound in chains flashed through Cadence’s mind, a shadowed mouth of teeth closing around her head.

The dragon huffed as Cadence violently shook the thought from her mind. “I see you aren’t the kind princess I thought you were after all.” A snort of warm air pushed back Cadence’s mane before the dragon turned and stepped away.

Lifting a hoof after the retreating dragon, Cadence’s lips opened to call after her, but she found herself lacking the energy to speak.

Stepping up beside her, Shining caught the hoof with his. “Just let her go Cadence, you did the right thing by refusing her. You can’t please everyone.”

“I know.” Cadence met Shining’s eyes with her own moist pair. “But that doesn’t help me from feeling any worse.”

Pulling on her hoof, Shining brought her into a hug, allowing his muzzle to brush and kiss at her neck. “Why don’t we just forget about her and keep looking for Flo?” He felt Cadence’s shoulders lift at the suggestion.

“Well, that will take my mind off of it.” Cadence’s shoulders fell once more as she sighed. “I hope she’s not in any danger right now. I hope they haven’t hurt her.”

“Silhouette, you’ve been a great help over these years, but The Whispering Wings?” Silvia shook her head as she laughed, the sorrowful sound ending in a sigh. “What have you gotten yourself into?”

“I told you. It’s to save the princess,” Flo responded as if that explained everything.

Another wave of laughter left Silvia’s lips. “I know it is Silhouette, but would you really have me risking my scales to save another?”

Flo’s head was nodding before Silvia had finished speaking. “It’s the princess. I can’t let her die.”

The smile on Silvia’s lips spread further as she lifted a claw to rest on Flo’s head. “This princess means a lot to you, doesn’t she?”

Noticing the accusation in Silvia’s tone, Flo pouted. That’s just what Drip said. “It’s not like that. I just have to save her.”

A sharpened claw roamed over Flo’s head, tracing the lines between each scale. “Flo, if she means enough that you’d ignore my advice, she must mean the world to you. I always assumed you thought of me somewhat as a mother, but I guess this princess is the one you want.”

Flo’s breath caught in her throat at Silvia’s words. My mother? Blurry shapes and muffled voices came to her mind, memories so old she barely knew they were there. Yet the warmth that came with them was still strong, as fresh as it had been on the day those memories were made. The same warmth Flo felt when Cadence held her.

“Is that why I need to save her?” Flo thought aloud, forgetting Silvia, forgetting the room she was in completely.

“I think it is.” Silvia’s voice drew Flo from her mind, bringing her back to the fire she stood before, the claw still tracing patterns across her head. “And as jealous as I am, I might help you with this.”

“You’ll stop The Whispering Wings?” Flo’s eyes lit up at the thought, a smile splitting her muzzle. Moving forward with outstretched forelegs, Flo wrapped Silvia in a hug, rubbing her head against black scales.

“Hey.” Wedging a claws between Flo and her chest, Silvia chuckled as she pushed Flo back a little. “I can’t promise anything, but I’ll talk to the right dragons, maybe I’ll be able to help.”

Looking up at Silvia’s small smile, Flo’s lips widened into a grin. “I know you’ll be able to do it. You can do anything.”

“Don’t trust in me too much Silhouette.” Holding Flo by the shoulders, she pushed the smaller dragon backwards, turning her towards the door. “Now why don’t you run back to your princess? I’m sure she’s missing you.”

“Flo! Flo!”

On Skylight’s back once more, soaring over the city, Cadence felt her throat growing sore with each shout. Above them the sun was falling from its peak, heading back towards its rest in the horizon.

Shining’s shouts echoed her own, the pair of stallions flying behind them.

“Why don’t we head back?” Skylight suggested as she turned down the hundredth street they had soared over that day. “She might be there.”

Parting her lips, Cadence held back the instinctive No, and took in Skylight’s words. She’s right, maybe Flo had just gone out for a walk and came back? The thought brought hope to her mind, washing aside the horrible nightmares of Flo’s confinement. “Yes, maybe she is.”

Underneath her stomach, Cadence felt Skylight’s muscles shift as they swung through the sky to face the palace once more. A flick of the pegasus’s wings and they were rocketing towards it, the wind causing Cadence’s mane to dance behind her head.

The heavy thumps of Cloud’s wings soon followed them, growing closer and closer with each sound.

Closing her eyes against the wind, Cadence allowed her mind to drift back to their palace room, images of Flo greeting them as they descended filling her head.

“Where were you princess?” The imaginary dragon asked as Cadence wrapped her in a hug, squeezing the sapphire scales tight against her coat. “Did you go see Ember again.”

“No.” In her mind Cadence’s voice was choked, cheeks glistening with tears. “We’ve been looking for you all day Flo. I thought you’d been taken by The Whispering Wings, I thought, I thought.”

Flo’s features twisted with confusion. “You’re crazy princess, I’ve been here all day.”

“But where were you this morning?”

The lips of Cadence’s imaginary Flo parted, but only the click of hooves against stone came out.

“We’re here.” Skylight’s voice tore Cadence from her fond fantasy and into reality, opening her eyes to the empty balcony before her.

Climbing from Skylight’s back, Cadence burst through the door and into the room beyond, swinging her head from side to side like she was trying to shake it from her neck. “Flo?” She called at the empty room, hoping to see blue of Flo’s scales peek from somewhere. “Flo are you here?”

No response reaching her ear, Cadence allowed her rear to fall to the ground, tears welling in the corners of her eyes as the nightmares of Flo came back to her mind. She’s been captured, She told herself, unable to see any other reason for Flo’s disappearance. She’s been taken because of me.

Unknown to the grieving Cadence, the door at the room’s far end clicked open, allowing the click of claws on stone to enter. “Princess!” The cry lifted Cadence’s head towards its source, her eyes meeting the charging Flo.

“Flo.” Lifting her forelegs, Cadence caught the oncoming Flo in a hug, bringing her close and cuddling at her neck. “Where have you been all day? I’ve been so worried.”

“I’ve been,” Flo paused, thinking back to the dragons she had met with today. Do I want the princess to know about them? “I’ve been walking around Rockholm.”

“Oh Flo, you should tell me next time you’re going out on your own. I thought you had been captured.” A image of Flo lying still, surrounded by a pool of dark liquid flashed through Cadence’s mind. Or worse.

A smile spread across Flo’s lips. “I’d never let the bad dragons catch me.”

One hoof running down Flo’s neck, the other curled around her back, Cadence sighed relief. “Well, that’s good to know, but I want you to stay close to me while The Whispering Wings are after us. I can’t risk losing you. I love you too much.”

Nodding, Flo allowed herself to relax in Cadence’s embrace, warmth tingling across her back with each stroke of Cadence’s hoof. I love you too princess.

Hoofsteps behind Cadence signalled Shining’s approach. “Was she really here all day?”

Cadence shook her head. “No, she just came back. She said she’s been walking around the city all day.”

“Strange,” Shining said as he looked at the dragon cuddled up against Cadence. “I wonder what she was doing down there.”

Pretending she couldn’t hear, Flo burrowed her head deeper into Cadence’s grasp. I’ve been saving you.

The growl of Shining’s stomach pulled his eyes away from Flo and up to Cadence’s. “I think it’s well past time for lunch. Can we go get something to eat?”

To celebrate Cadence asked for an extra pie for the five to share. A mixture of chocolate and berries, red and blue, was kept together by a sweetened shell of pastry. Shining managed to devour both his pie and a slice of the chocolate one before Cadence was barely halfway through her first.

Lying on his back, Shining groaned as he held the tight bulge of his belly.

Looking down at him, Cadence shook her head. “No matter how many times it happens you never learn do you?” She giggled when he groaned in response, rolling onto his side to look up at her with wide eyes.

“Maybe a little more pie would help?” Lifting his lips, Shining attempted a grin but the shift in his stomach soon twisted his features with pain.

“No.” Cadence tapped his snout lightly with her hoof, causing Shining to blink. “I’m sure you’d eat yourself to death on pies if you were left alone.”

Shining’s eyes glazed over, his jaw opening and allowing a string of saliva to fall from the side as he mumbled, “It’d be worth it.” His words filled the air with laughter, Cadence feeling her nibble of pie catch in her throat.

Turning away from the circle, Cadence coughed into her foreleg, dislodging the food. As she lowered her leg she found herself staring out the balcony door at the city beyond. I wonder how Ember’s doing? The thought came to her mind with alarm as she realised he would still be searching the city walls.

Leaving her pie on the stone floor, Cadence stood, meeting Skylight’s eyes. “I forgot about Ember. He’ll still be out there searching for Flo.”

A pout came to Flo’s lips as Skylight rose to her hooves, planting a kiss on Cloud’s cheek as she did so. “The mean dragon was looking for me?”

Lifting a hoof, Cadence placed it on the head of the dragon who sat to one side. “He’s not a bad dragon anymore Flo, I’ve told you this.” She met Skylight’s eyes once more. “Are you ready to go?”

Extending her wings as she walked towards Cadence, Skylight nodded. “This’ll only take a moment.”

Cadence’s stomach tightened at the words, forelegs instinctively tensing. You just have to relax, She reminded herself, taking a deep breath. “Well, let’s go.”

They found Ember some distance out from the city wall, flying over the natural ditches and hills that surrounded Rockholm with his eyes pinned to the ground.

“Ember!” Cadence called for what seemed like the dozenth time, her cry finally lifting his eyes towards them.

Seeing the pair of ponies, Ember tilted his wings and angled his body towards the ground. A cloud of dust lifting into the air as he landed. Descending to meet him, Skylight touched down a few steps in front of him before allowing Cadence to dismount.

“Do you have news of your friend?” Ember asked once Cadence was standing. “I have not seen her out here.”

“Yes.” Cadence nodded as she spoke, a smile on her lips. “She came back to us a little while ago. You were right about her leaving for a while.”

Ember’s features eyes lifted, curiosity in them. “Did she say what she was doing?”

“Well yes,” Cadence thought back her conversation with Flo. “And no. She said she was walking.”

“Walking.” Ember’s lips moved with a smile. “She is the blue one I saw with you at the festival, right?” At Cadence’s nod he murmured to himself. “I feel like there is more to her than it seems.”

“What do you mean?”

“Oh.” Shaking his head, Ember lifted a claw to shoo the question away. “Nothing really, just thinking aloud. Anyway, was there anything else you wanted to talk about?”

Rolling her eyes into her head, Cadence thought for a moment before looking back to Ember. “No, but I’d like to meet with you tomorrow, if we manage to survive this night that is.”

“Still frightened of The Whispering Wings?”

“Well, a little. We’ve made sure we’re as safe as possible, but knowing someone is hunting gives me a strange feeling in my stomach.” As if to emphasize her point, Cadence shivered.

“I could stand guard if you wished me to.”

Cadence shook her head as she smiled up at the dragon. “Thank you for the offer, but I wouldn’t want to be responsible for another life.” Seeing an eagerness still in Ember’s eyes and pose, Cadence waved a hoof at him. “Trust me, I’ll be fine, Celestia’s protecting me.”

“If you say so princess, I will see you tomorrow.” Unfolding his wings, Ember lifted himself into the air with a thumping beat, bringing a swarm of dust with him.

Climbing atop Skylight’s back once more, Cadence allowed her mind to drift as they flew home, picking apart Ember’s words. What did he mean by there’s more to Flo than it seems? She dwelt on the thought for a few moments before dismissing it, mind moving onto preparations for the coming night.

“Do you want me to take the first watch again?” The four ponies sat in their glowing tents, Flo on the balcony outside. Shining looked from Skylight to Cloud and back, searching for a response.

“Having the same order would be best,” Cloud said eventually. “That way everyone grows accustomed to the missed sleep.” Nodding in agreement, Skylight settled down beside him, pulling Cloud closer with a wing.

“I’ll wake you when it’s time then Cloud.” Turning from the pair of pegasi, Shining looked to his side and found Cadence’s eyes waiting for him.

They came closer as she leant forward, her lips embracing his for a moment. “I’ve been missing our times together with all that’s been going on.” Cadence’s whispers sent a shiver down Shining’s spine. “We need to find a way to have some time alone.”

Returning the kiss, Shining nodded. “I’ll try to think of something during my watch, you just get some sleep.” Another kiss joined his lips and hers before Cadence lowered herself to the ethereal mattress below, curling her body up around Shining’s.

Lifting a hoof to stroke at Cadence’s mane, Shining gazed out beyond the balcony where Flo lay, and into the night beyond. The twinkling of stars in the sky met his eyes yet his mind barely registered their glow, instead it drew images of he and Cadence together from his memories.

Cadence’s ideas, while almost frighteningly crazy at the time, became bursts of warmth in his body as he remembered each of them. A smile spread across Shining’s lips as his eyes closed, the brain behind them dreaming of where they could go and what they could do in the coming days.

If only we could find a way to distract the other three, He thought as his mind relaxed into the soft embrace of happy memories, sinking deeper and deeper.

“Princess!”

The voice shocked Shining from his half sleep, jolting his head upright and eyelids open. Breath left his lungs as Flo dove into his chest, knocking him over as another cry leaving her lips.

“Princess!”

The cry seemed to stir Cadence also, murmurs leaking from her lips and her body shifting, trying to snuggle closer to where Shining had been sitting. Finding nothing she curled closer into herself, forelegs grasping at her tail.

Climbing from Shining’s chest, Flo moved to Cadence’s side, grasping at her shoulder and shaking. “Princess, you need to wake up. They’re here.”

Still groggy himself, Shining rolled onto his stomach and shook his dream from his head. What does she mean they’re here? At the thought memories of the previous day hit him like a kick to the chest, filling his lungs with a gasp. I was supposed to be on watch. Did I fall asleep?

Bolting straight upright, Shining glanced around. First his eyes found Flo sitting over Cadence, shaking her awake, then Skylight and Cloud’s tent, untouched. Looking out to the balcony, the sight that waited for him widened his eyes and tightened his muscles. It’s them.

Two dragons stood at the open balcony door, their bodies long and twisting, more like snakes with wings than any dragon Shining had seen. In the dim light their scales appeared to be the same color as the stone below their claws, pitch black.

Yet glints of moonlight on their scales revealed to Shining their true colors, one the murky green of a swamp and the other blue like the night sky. Nostrils flared, they moved on all fours, seeping in through the door as if they were mist.

Eyes still glued to the pair of dragons, Shining slid across the mattress to where Flo sat over Cadence. “Is she awake yet?” He whispered, the sound of his voice drawing the snake-like dragons’ muzzles to him.

Looking more closely at their heads, Shining found the space normally set aside for eyes was covered in scales instead, their nostrils large enough to make up for the lack.

“I’m awake Shining.” Cadence’s voice calmed Shining’s tensed muscles, the grasp of worry on his mind loosening. “What’s happening? I thought Skylight was supposed to wake me?”

Tearing his eyes from the approaching dragon for a moment, Shining looked down to Cadence and found her rubbing at an eye with her hoof. Breathing deep, he kept his voice as calm as he could manage. “She was, but something’s interrupted our schedule.”

With a hoof he motioned outside the tent where the pair of dragons now stood, sniffing at its surface. Shining caught Cadence as she moved backward in fright, holding her in a hug. “It’s alright,” He said as he nuzzled at her neck. “I’m right here, I’ll keep you safe.”

At the sound of his voice one of the dragons stepped towards the tent, only to be beat back by its outer wall. Growling at the ethereal material before it, the dragon tried again, stepping back before charging forward. Its assault was met with just as much force as it held, throwing the dragon to the floor.

Flo and the pair of ponies watched the battle with wide eyes, Shining pausing his affectionate touches to simply stare. The tent to their side rustled with movement, Skylight’s white mane poking out from its door.

Her head swung halfway around the room, stopping when her eyes met the draconic pair outside the ethereal walls. Looking away from the intruders, Skylight met Shining’s eye. “Why didn’t you wake me?”

Without speaking, Shining gestured her closer with a foreleg. Skylight nodded, disappearing back inside her tent for a moment before reappearing with Cloud. The two moved gingerly, eyes on the snake-like dragons the whole time.

Once atop the mattress, the pegasus pair sat, half facing the other three they shared the mattress with, half facing the intruders. All five watched for some time as the other dragon joined its partner’s assault, launching itself at the ethereal wall, only to be fought back in the same way.

“What are you going to do?” Flo questioned, her voice breaking the air of screams and grunts.

Not taking her eyes off of the scene before her for a moment, Cadence allowed her hoof to rest on Flo’s head, stroking slowly. “Watch Flo, Celestia’s power has saved us again.”

In silence the five watched the dragons grow more and more enraged with each failed attempt to breach the tent, their success unchanged no matter what angle they chose. Their snarls loudened until they were deafening, Cadence folding her ears away.

Eventually strength faded from the dragons’ charges, their bodies heaving with panting breaths. One snapped at the other, snarling and turning towards the balcony. Green wings opened and the dragon launched into the air, a snake of blue scales following it.

Relief left Cadence’s lungs as a breath once she could no longer see the dragons, Shining’s forelegs catching her as she leant back. “Well we survived.”

Skylight’s chuckle filled the air. “They’ll be back tomorrow.” Beside her, Cloud nodded in agreement.

“Highly trained killers won’t give up after just one attempt. We’ll still have to be wary, but at least we can sleep easy now.” Lifting a hoof, Cloud allowed it to pass through the ethereal wall beside him. “These tents seem to stop them.”

Yawning, Shining nodded also. “I think I might get some sleep then.” Easing himself backward, he shifted from behind and into the centre of their shared mattress, stretching himself out and yawning again.

Smiling at the already sleeping stallion, Cadence looked back to the other two ponies. “Yes, it will be best if we are well rested.” Waving goodnight to the pegasi, she turned to Flo. “Are you going to go back out to the balcony to sleep, or stay here?”

When no response came, Cadence looked more closely at Flo and found she was shaking. Shifting around in front of the dragon, she lifted Flo’s fallen head with a hoof. “Flo, what’s wrong? The dragons are all gone now, it’s okay.”

Meeting Cadence’s concerned eyes, Flo’s pair widened as if she were just realising where she was. A deep breath and the shaking stopped. “I’m fine princess.” Rising, she took a step forward before looking back to Cadence. “I’ll sleep outside. Someone has to protect you from the mean dragons.”

Feeling a burst of laughter leaver her lips, Cadence waved after Flo as she left before moving to Shining’s side. She lay down beside him, her back to his side, eyes still watching Flo settle on the balcony.

I wonder what she’s scared of? Cadence thought as Flo sat beside the balcony railing to stare over the city. She knows I’ll be there to protect her right?

The thought rested in Cadence’s mind as Shining’s foreleg curled over her shoulder, the stallion instinctively cuddling against her even in his sleep. Still watching Flo, Cadence felt her eyelids sink, shadows falling over her vision.

If I can’t make one dragon feel safe, how will I help the rest of the city?

Click.

The sound of claws against stone pierced the weight of sleep in Cadence’s mind, waking her eyelids open. Her eyes found the blue of Flo’s scaled legs passing by. Where is she going?

Shifting slightly in Shining’s grasp, Cadence angled her head so she could follow Flo’s movements, across the room and towards the door. Is she leaving again?

Sleep still heavy in her limbs, Cadence untwisted from Shining’s grasp gently, as not to wake, and rose to her hooves. Lifting her eyes, she found Flo was already at the door, looking back as she stood half inside the room, half out.

“Princess?”

“Yes, it’s me Flo.” Moving across the mattress, Cadence stepped down onto stone, shivering at its cool touch against her hooves. “Where are you going?”

“I.” Flo twisted her head to look outside, before glancing back at Cadence again. “I.” Turning her whole body this time, Flo ran, the sound of her claws against stone echoing down the hallway and inside the room.

On instinct, Cadence ran after her, her hooves on the obsidian below seeming deafeningly loud in her ears. When she reached the top of the stairs, she found Flo was already halfway down, skipping every second step.

Opening her painfully tight wings, Cadence spread them wide before leaping, gliding down the stairwell overtop of Flo and landing heavily at the bottom. Wincing at the pain in both her hooves and wings, Cadence looked up to Flo. “Why are you running away from me? Will you tell me what’s wrong?”

Cadence saw Flo’s cheeks glistening as she dashed past, running down the hallway behind and into the throne room. What happened to her? Cadence wonder as she turned and continued after Flo, folding her painful wings away as she did.

Out past the throne room, through the entrance hall and into the gardens beyond Cadence followed Flo, gaining on the dragon bit by bit. Her mind was a river of thought as she ran, rushing with every possible thing that could have caused Flo to run. Did I hurt her? Maybe she’s terrified of those dragons? What if she doesn’t like me around Ember?

Cadence mind ceased as her chase ended, Flo pinned against the closed palace gates, body shaking as she tugged at the bars with her claws, trying fruitlessly to open them. Slowing her trot, Cadence approached with soft steps, stopping a short distance from Flo.

Silence joined the two for some time, only the sound of Flo’s sniffs piercing the air as she continued to tug at the palace gates. Her struggles slowed with each tug, body sinking to the ground, sniffs turning into choking sobs.

Once Flo’s movements had stopped but for the rise and fall of her back and the shaking of her limbs, Cadence moved forward to sit beside her. Wrapping her forelegs over the dragon’s shoulders, she nuzzled at Flo’s neck, comforting her without a word.

Cadence felt Flo’s ragged breaths calm, her shaking slow to a stop, still she did not speak. Only stroking at Flo’s chest with a hoof, pressing her pink fur into sapphire scales. She’ll tell me what’s wrong, Cadence knew. I just have to give her time.

Possible problems sprang to mind once more, but Cadence pushed them aside and instead focused on the movement of her hoof against Flo’s scales. She’s right here in your grasp, no need to worry about what could have happened. I know she’s safe for now.

Listening to Flo’s soft breathing, Cadence lifted her hoof to touch cheeks of blue scales and found wetness there. “Princess?” Flo’s voice was so quiet Cadence was barely sure she had spoken.

So different to how she normally is, Cadence thought, opening her lips to speak. “Yes Flo?”

“She’s dead.” The pair of words came out as a breath, hanging in the air for only a moment before they were strangled by Flo’s gasping sob. “She’s dead. She’s dead. She’s dead.”

Suppressing the rising worry in her stomach, Cadence continued to brush the fresh flowing tears from Flo’s cheeks, continued to nuzzle at a blue scaled neck with her lips. “Who’s dead Flo?” The words felt strange in Cadence’s mouth, too calm, as if she were asking a foal what they wanted for breakfast.

“A dragon you don’t know.”

Cadence more felt Flo’s words than heard them, her chest pressed so closely against the dragon’s back she could feel Flo’s breaths. Ignoring the confusion that flitted at the corners of her mind, Cadence pressed forward. “How do you know she died?”

“Because. They came.” A shiver passed through Flo’s body alongside a laboured breath. “She said she’d stop them. She failed.”

Flo’s words filled gaps in the puzzles Cadence’s mind held, allowing her to see the picture more clearly. “Is that what you were doing yesterday? Asking someone to save us? Save me?”

The only response Cadence received was another heavy breath of Flo’s, causing her to fear the dragon had not heard. Her lips opened to repeat the words, but she bit at her tongue. She heard, just give her some time to answer. This must be hard for her.

After a few more breaths Cadence felt Flo shift in her grasp, breathy words filling the air once more. “Yes. She told me this might happen. I only thought about you. Thought about myself.”

In Cadence’s mind more questions replaced those Flo’s words had answered. What does she mean only thought about herself. Feeling Flo shift once more, she pushed the thought aside. “Well what if she didn’t ask yet?”

“No. Silvia was always crazy fast. She’d never take this long.” A breath left Flo’s body, the dragon deflating like a balloon, falling limply back into Cadence’s embrace. “Why does it hurt so bad?”

“Well, I,” Cadence paused, pondering Flo’s question. What am I supposed to tell her? I have no idea how she feels. This has never happened to me before. Instead of allowing her worried thought to take over, she dove deeper into Flo’s words. Why would losing someone hurt?

She thought of Shining, her nightmares of losing him coming to mind, the hopeless fear and gut wrenching sickness they brought giving her a taste of Flo’s pain.

“I think it’s because when someone is so close to us, they become almost part of us, and when part of us dies.” Cadence winced at the image of Shining that flashed through her mind, lying still in her forelegs. “It hurts. The more they were a part of us the more it does, but eventually it heals.”

Silence echoed Cadence’s words, only the sound of the two’s breaths filling the air for a moment. “So it will stop hurting?” Flo questioned eventually.

“Well,” I don’t know for sure, but. “It should stop, eventually.” Cadence felt Flo shifting in her grasp, scales tugging at her coat as Flo cuddled closer.

Just as quickly as it had fled from their voices, quiet joined them once more, filling Cadence’s ears with the barely audible sounds of night. The rustle of leaves in the garden behind them, one skipping across the cobbled path. The whisper of wings above.

Wings? Cadence lifted her head and felt Flo do the same, both bodies sharing a shiver at the sight they saw. Descending down from the starry sky were two snakes with wings, the green and blue of their scales barely visible in the moonlight.

“I’ll protect you princess” Unwrapping herself from Cadence’s hold, Flo rose to stand before her.

With almost soundless clicks of claws, the snake-dragons landed and slithered towards their prey, nostrils flared wide.

Feeling a familiar numbing panic rise in her chest and spread through her limbs, Cadence lit her horn. I can’t be scared of dragons forever. Breathing deep she formed her spark into a barrier before Flo.

One of the dragons struck it moments before the other, releasing a cry which caused the other to stop. Opening its nostrils even wider, the dragon in green sniffed at the barrier in front of it before snarling loudly.

They snarled and spat at each other for a few more moments before splitting up and moving alongside Cadence’s barrier.

Splitting her magic, Cadence formed a blue wall between both snake-dragons and Flo, mirroring their movements. Every few steps one dragon would attempt to dart towards them, only to find its path blocked by a scentless, ringing wall.

Each attempt grew more and more vicious as the dragons paced back and forth before Flo and Cadence, throwing themselves at Cadence’s magic by their dozenth pass.

Cadence was feeling the force of their blows in her horn, each one coming on more rapid succession than the last, giving her less and less time to recover. I don’t know how much longer I can hold them off.

The scuttle of the snake-dragons’ claws against the cobbles and the ringing of her magic were all the sound Cadence knew for what seemed like eternity. Her mind feeling like someone was pushing a stake deep into the base of her horn.

A gasp filling Flo’s lips had Cadence’s mind racing, her eyes flitting from the pair of snakes to Flo for an instant. With eyes on the sky above, a smile spread across Flo’s lips, Cadence unable to look as she fought off charge after charge. She could hear however, hear the whisper of wings.

Did Skylight realise I’m gone? Cadence thought, a smile touching at the corners of her mouth. I hope she can save us. Unable to help herself, she stole a glance upward at the approaching flier and felt her heart sink when she saw the jagged wings of a dragon. Or has another come to finish us off?

She was allowed little time to ponder the thought as the dragons on the ground launched another assault, this one straining Cadence’s magical walls till she thought they would break.

A snarl filled the air along with the sound of scales against stone as one of the snake-like dragons was tackled to the ground. Black scales writhed against green, the newcomer wrestling one of the attackers to the ground.

“Silvia!” Flo called, a smile lifting the corners of her lips as she took a step towards the dragon she had thought dead. “You’re still alive.”

Sitting atop the snake of green scales, Silvia swayed back and forth like a rodeo rider. The smile on her lips matched Flo’s as he met the young dragon’s eyes. “You didn’t think I’d let them stop me that easily di-”

Silvia’s words were cut short by a guttural sound, half choking, half gurgling. Purple eyes widened and the smile fell from her lips, forelegs hanging limp.

Looking closer, Cadence realised a snake of blue scales suddenly stood beside Silvia, one of his claws held up to her neck. How did he get- She didn’t have time to finish her thought before a sickening sound filled the air, one that caused her to grit her teeth.

The body of black scales swayed in the air for a moment, like a blade of grass in soft wind, before falling forward onto the cobbles with a crunch. Cadence mind was lit with the spark of horror at the sound and sight, one she had never known before.

Unable to recover for even a moment, Cadence found the blue scaled snake charging towards her, zipping from side to side with its nostrils flared. She felt the spark spreading inside her, starting a fire, a burning deep in her chest unlike anything she had felt before. Why can’t they just leave us alone?

Roaring through Cadence’s body, the spark erupted from her horn as an inferno of blue, light the gates behind her so bright it seemed they were bathed in daylight. A step or two from making contact with her, Cadence caught the snake of blue in a magical pouch, lifting him from the ground as he twisted and snarled.

Slithering like the snake he was, the dragon tried to slip from Cadence’s hold, half the length of his body free before her grasp tightened around him till he could barely breathe.

Glancing past the body spread out at her hooves, Cadence found the dragon cloaked in green standing shakily, moonlight glistening off the streak that ran down his side. Ignoring the dragon’s pain, she took him up in her hold as well, gripping both in the air before her.

Horn still blazing with power, Cadence turned to the palace gates behind her and found their bars tempting her eyes. The thought didn’t even pass through her mind, but went right from eyes to horn, the dragon-snakes soon finding themselves floating between glowing blue bars.

Her body alight with so much magic, bending the bars was as easy as twisting the stem of a flower, her cool blue snakes soon wrapping around the two dragons.

Satisfied with her work, Cadence allowed a breath to leave her lungs, the same one she had been holding ever since Silvia hit the floor. The inferno of blue at her horn was doused in the same moment, her ears open to the buzzing of sounds around her once more.

“Princess.” Cadence felt the warmth of dragon’s scales hit her, Flo’s forelegs wrapping around her neck. “That was crazy princess. Why didn’t you say you’ve been able to do that this whole time?”

Returning Flo’s embrace, Cadence allowed the dragon’s weight to pull her to the ground. “I didn’t know,” She admitted as she stared up at the destruction she had caused. The once straight bars of the palace gates broken and twisted toward two points of focus. Moonlight dimly lit the scene, flickering shadows hinting at the dragons’ struggles above. “It’s so, terrible.”

Pouting, Flo glanced between Cadence and the twist of bars above. “What do you mean princess? It’s awesome. The way you beat those two up. You didn’t even need to touch them.”

Nodding along to Flo’s words, Cadence found her mind reliving the past few moments, the emotions that came with them like that of another pony. Eventually her mind brought forth a picture of purple eyes and a wide smile sitting below them.

Did that even happen? Cadence thought as she twisted around to where she had last seen the fallen dragon. Did I really see her die?

Unable to help herself, Cadence winced at the sight of still, black scales, barely visible against the cobbles. She felt her throat tighten, stomach wanting to empty itself. Forcing the feeling back with a swallow, Cadence turned back to Flo.

“What do dragons usually do with their dead?” She asked.

“What do you mean princess.” Confusion filling her features, Flo gaze up at the writhing dragons above. “Those mean dragons aren’t dead. I wouldn’t help them anyway.”

Pressing a hoof to blue lips, Cadence silenced Flo. “I’m not talking about them.” Unwrapping one foreleg from around Flo’s back, she motioned towards the still body. “I’m talking about her.”

Looking over Cadence shoulder Flo frowned. “Are you crazy princess. There’s no-” A gasp cut off the last of Flo’s words, a shiver running through her body. “Silvia.” The name came from her lips as if she were just realising the body was there.

All breath left Flo’s body, deflating once more into Cadence’s embrace, drying the corners of her eyes against a pink coat.

Wrapping both hooves around Flo’s back once more, Cadence held her close, running one hoof down Flo’s side. She felt the warm wetness of tears against her coat as she pressed her lips against the top of Flo’s head. Let it all out Flo, just let it all out.

“Princess?” The word met Cadence’s sleeping mind alongside the sensation of a claw on her shoulder. “What happened here princess?”

Lifting one hoof from the scaled body that leant against her, Cadence rubbed at her eyes with it, the motion helping to wake her. The sight of a grey scaled dragon in guard’s armor sent a jolt through her body, waking her eyes wide open. “Why are you in our room?”

Taking a step backward and sideways, the dragon allowed Cadence to see the scene before her. The two snake-dragons were still twisted in the great bars of the palace gates, though they hung limp, bodies still but for the rise and fall of their backs.

“You’re not in your room princess, but the palace courtyard.”

Glancing from side to side, Cadence found what he said was true, the green of gardens greeting her on either side, dimly lit by the moon’s last light. How? She wondered for an instant. before the events of the previous night returned to her mind. I wish I had not remembered.

Still staring at the silent princess, the dragon waited until he could no longer hold his tongue. “Will you tell me what happened here princess?”

The words pulled Cadence from her grieving thoughts and refocused her eyes on the grey dragon. “Terrible things I don’t want to remember.” Twisting her neck, Cadence peeked backward to find the body she had been dreading, a pool of crimson staining the cobbles around its neck.

“W-what happened to her princess?” The dragon’s voice was shaky, as if he feared the worst.

Meeting his eyes once more, Cadence shook her head before lifting a hoof towards the ensnared snakes above. “It was them.”

As he followed Cadence’s gesture, the dragon nodded. “The Whispering Wings I assume? There has been a tale travelling the guards that you are their target.”

“Not their only one it seems.” Cadence shifted Flo from her grasp and lowered her gently towards the cobbles, as not to wake.

Despite her best efforts, Flo’s eyelids flickered open to reveal the sapphires beneath. “Princess, why ar-” The breath caught in Flo’s throat when she realized where they were. “Tell me it was a dream princess.”

Opening her lips, Cadence was tempted to lie to Flo for a moment. No, that would only make it worse. “I’m sorry Flo, but you remember correctly. She’s gone.”

Standing out of Cadence’s grasp, Flo looked past her to the still black scales beyond. “Silvia,” She whispered, legs shaking so violently Cadence feared she would collapse.

“You know this dragon then princess?” The guard’s eyes were on Cadence as he spoke, yet he found Flo’s nod answering him. Turning to Flo, he continued. “Do you know her wishes then?”

Flo nodded once more before taking a shaky step towards Silvia’s body. “She wants to disappear.” Another step, another and she stood over the still form.

What does she mean, disappear? Cadence thought as she watched Flo tilt Silvia’s muzzle skyward and press her blue lips against black. What is she doing? Suppressing her urge to voice her thoughts and break the trance, Cadence bit her lip and studied Flo’s movements.

A deep breath lifted Flo’s back and lowered her eyelids, making it appear as if she were sharing a deep kiss with a lover. The world stood still for a moment, the world around so quiet Cadence was unsure if it was still moving.

Staring closely at Flo, Cadence could see the glistening of tear running down her cheeks and falling onto the cobbles below. A shiver ran through Flo's back before it shrunk. Air leaving her lungs as half breath, half roar, lighting up the black scales of Silvia until she was glowing bright blue.

Is she breathing fire into her? Cadence wondered, only to have her questions confirmed by the sight before her. Silvia’s black scales were engulfed by the lick of blue flames, her whole body becoming alive one more.

The form of blue twisted into one flame as Flo lifted her head, allowing the mix of ashes and fire to leap from her lips into the dim sky and flutter away.

That was beautiful. The thought cut through the concoction of other emotions filling Cadence’s mind, warming her chest with a small flicker of joy. It was like she was alive again. Lowering her eyes back down to Flo, she found the dragon shaking once more.

Stepping forward, Cadence brought Flo’s head to rest in her shoulder, wiping tears away on her coat. “Let’s go back to our room,” She whispered, gathering Flo under her wing.

“What do you want done with the other two?” The guard questioned.

Lifting her eyes towards the pair tangled in the gate, Cadence felt rage flashed across her mind, tempting her into lighting her horn. No, She thought, pushing back the memories of horror the two had given her. “Do whatever you usually do with criminals.”

With that said Cadence moved with Flo back towards the palace doors, through the throne room and upstairs into the room. Their door still hung open as she had left it, the ethereal tent still standing tall as if nothing had happened.

Stopping a step or two before their mattress, Cadence turned her head towards Flo. “Do you want to sleep with me tonight?”

The balcony door held Flo’s attention for a moment before she met Cadence’s eyes, nodding.

Stepping as softly as she could, Cadence moved across the ethereal mattress to lie a short distance more Shining, Flo curling up against her. “Goodnight Flo,” Cadence whispered. “I hope you have peaceful dreams.”

“I hope I don’t dream at all.”

What You Don't Know Still Hurts

“Come on Cadence, wake up. It’s almost lunch time.”

Cadence felt the words whispered in her ear, like a light tug against the sinking sand of sleep that held her tight. Shifting her head, she tilted her ear away from the annoyance while tightening her grasp of the scaled body between her forelegs.

The heavy black fog that enveloped Cadence’s mind settled once more, the slight spark of consciousness she had fading away into nothing.

“Cadence.”

This time the whisper came with a touch, the warmth of another against her coat feeding the spark into a flame, bringing a dull light to her mind. What’s happening? Cadence thought for a moment, the sensation of a mattress cuddling her side, scales against her belly coming to her.

She felt the presence hovering above retreat, the voice fleeing with it. “Are you ready?” A soft swish of water echoed its words, followed by a feminine giggle.

“Go, I want to see her face.”

In the far reaches of her mind Cadence recognized the voices, half-formed and murky figures entering her pool of thought. The subtle ring of magic, another swish of water and everything clicked.

“Don’t even think about it,” Cadence said, forcing her eyes open to find a bowl encased in blue hovering above her head. Lighting her horn, she took the bowl and flicked its contents on the giggling pair beside her mattress, catching a third in the crossfire.

Mane dripping with water, Shining caught Cadence’s sleepy gaze with a grin. “I was just going to wake you up the way you’ve taught me.”

Staring at his face, a flick of wet blue hair covering one eye, Cadence couldn’t help but chuckle. “I haven't taught you well enough.”

The taste of strawberries and molten chocolate was heaven to Cadence's tongue and lips as she lifted them from the bowl before her, savouring each morsel. Flo ate in a much more rabid fashion, muzzle digging inside the bowl like it was the first food he had seen in weeks.

“So why did you two sleep for so long?” Shining asked after some time, needing something to take his mind off of the food before him. “Did you find out how amazing it is?”

“Well.” Cadence lowered her bowl, wiping the hint of brown from her lips before looking to Flo. Meeting the blue eyes with her own pink pair, Cadence waited for Flo to nod before she continued. “We didn’t get much sleep last night.”

“Neither did we. Everyone was woken by those dragons last night.”

“I know, but we were awake longer than that.” Inhaling deeply, Cadence brought the previous night’s events from her memories to her lips, watching the faces of the three before her twist with horror and anger.

“And when they were twisted in the palace gates I stilled my magic, and sat down with Flo.” Silence followed Cadence’s words, giving all of them time to think over Cadence’s words.

Eventually Shining spoke up. “So what did you do with that dragon,” Shining brought a hoof to his head, as if kneading it would help his memory.

“Silvia?”

“Yes, her. What happened to her body? Is it still out there? Actually,” Rising to his hooves, Shining half turned towards the balcony. “Are those two dragons still out there?” Moving towards the balcony, the sound of hooves and claws followed him.

Leaning hard up against the railing, Shining stared down the palace walls, craning his neck to hopefully catch view of the gates. Having no success he turned to find the pegasi behind him already opening their wings.

“We’ll take a look,” Skylight said before leaping into the air, Cloud following her.

With the pair gone, Cadence moved to Shining’s side, Flo with her. “Well Silvia won’t be there, but I wonder what happened to the other two.”

Leaning his head to the side, Shining brushed his cheek against Cadence’s. “Hopefully they’re down in the dungeons.” A few moments and wingbeats later his question was partly answered.

“They’re not in the gate,” Skylight said as she landed, pride forming a smile on her lips. “I saw where they were though.”

“Mmm.” Cadence nodded, lowering her eyes. “I hope it won’t be too hard to fix.”

“Who cares about the gates, I want to know what happened to those dragons.” Already at the balcony doorway, Shining motioned for the other four to follow with a hoof before disappearing inside.

Cadence felt the want to gallop after him filling her legs, but remembering Flo’s presence at her side, she restrained herself. “Shining, can you slow down?” She called when she stepped inside. “I’m still tired from last night.”

Turning back at her voice, Shining met Cadence’s eyes with a smile before retracing his steps to her side. “Sorry. I’m just eager to know if they’ve been captured. I don’t want a chance at putting them behind bars getting away.”

Taking the same steps she had last night, Cadence moved from their room, down a hallway and set of stairs, and into the throne room. Yet this time instead of chasing Flo, she had the dragon at her side.

The sound of voices met Cadence’s ears as she stepped into the throne room, Obsidian’s deep words questioning those of much higher pitch.

“How can it be feasible that no one witnessed it happen? There is always someone watching in Rockholm.”

Moving past the throne, Cadence’s eyes picked out the sandy scales of Brazen standing beside Obsidian. “I do not know king, somehow this scene seems to have slipped all of my many eyes. Something that should not happen, but it is only a bent gate, nothing to worry over.”

“I could tell you what happened.” Cadence’s voice drew both dragons’ eyes to her, Obsidian’s features filled with a smile while Brazen’s were creased with suspicion.

“Ah, princess.” Obsidian dipped his head slightly. “It is good to see you, and you say you bring word of what happened to my gates?”

Cadence nodded, an apologetic smile forming on her lips. “Yes, I bent them.”

Jaw dropping at the admission, Obsidian looked from side to side before meeting Cadence’s eyes once more. “Princess, this does not seem like you. What reason would you have to cause such damage to the palace?”

“Well, wasn’t it obvious when you saw those two dragons tangled up in the gate?”

Confusion furrowed Obsidian’s brow as he held Cadence with a silent stare for some time. Eventually he turned to Brazen. “Were there any dragons tangled up in the gates?”

Brazen rolled his eyes upward for a moment before shaking his head. “Of the many reports I heard, none included any sightings of dragons in the gates.”

The beat of Cadence’s heart quickened, her head turning to the side to find alarm in Flo’s eyes. “Are you sure? I know I tied two dragons up in those bars, two of The Whispering Wings.”

Surprise washed the confusion from Obsidian’s features. “I did not take you for a violent one princess, rather the opposite,” He allowed a deep breath to leave his lungs. “But I believe I understand your motives. These Whispering Wings are the ones you warned me of, correct?”

“Yes,” Cadence’s shoulders deflated and eyes fell. “I’m not proud of it, but I fought two of them in the courtyard last night and bound them in your gates. I left them in the duty of one of your guards, he was grey.”

Looking down to Brazen, Obsidian questioned his advisor without words, causing the sandy-scaled dragon to roll his eyes into his head.

“There is only one grey-scaled guard on duty this morning, Ballenes, but he should not have been anywhere near the gates.” Looking back to the ponies before him, Brazen found Cadence’s gaze wanting more. “I will bring him in regardless.”

“It’s not him,” Cadence knew instantly, the dragon before her standing a head taller than the one she had seen earlier that day, his scales a shade or two darker. I should have asked him for his name. “Are you sure there were no other grey dragons on duty?”

Brazen had a stack of papers in his claws, rustling as he shuffled them back and forth. “I’ve checked and checked again, he is the only grey dragon on duty this morning.”

Feeling her heart sinking as silence filled her ears, Cadence clutched on tightly to the scaled body at her side. Oh Flo, was Silvia’s bravery for nothing. She felt Flo shiver as a scaled muzzle burrowed into her neck, the wetness of Flo’s tears hidden there.

Lowering her own muzzle beside Flo’s head, Cadence whispered words so soft only the two of them could hear. “I know you don’t want to hear about this right now, do you want to go back to our room?” She sensed Flo’s head brush against her coat in the subtlest of shakes.

“No,” Flo whispered back, her voice wet with tears. “I need to be brave.”

As she lifted her head once more, warmth rushed through Cadence’s chest. You are the bravest little dragon Flo. She found Brazen’s gaze waiting for her.

“Do you have any further questions for this guard?” At the shake of Cadence’s head Brazen flicked his claw at Ballenes. “Return to your duties then.”

“Actually,” The baritone that came from Ballenes’ lips drew Cadence’s eyes to him. “There is something I wish to say before I leave.”

Huffing at the delay, Brazen placed his papers on the table behind him before turning back to Ballenes. “You may speak then.”

Ballenes looked to Cadence as he spoke. “There was another grey-scaled guard on duty this morning, Cinna. He opens the gates today.”

“Cinna,” Creases formed in Brazen’s brow as he turned back to his table of papers. “Cinna, Cinna, Cinna. Ah!” Plucking a paper from one of the many piles, he turned back to Ballenes. “It is written here he took the day of for reasons of health. A strained leg.”

A chuckle shook Ballenes’ body. “A strained leg, I never thought I’d hear that. He was always talking badly about the guards who excused themselves for small things like that. I won’t stop guarding till I’m dead he said.” Shaking his head, Ballanes chuckled once more. “A strained leg.”

“Can you tell me what Cinna looks like?” Cadence asked, her words causing the humour to flee from Ballenes’ features, his posture straightening up once more. If he is the one who opens the gates, then that could be him.

Ballenes held a claw up, level with the middle of his neck. “He is about this tall, and his are scales grey like I said, maybe a little lighter than mine. His eyes are orange-red, like there’s a little fire going on each in them.”

Straining her memory, Cadence brought back the few images of the guard she had met that morning. Were his eyes orange though? Placing the color in the mental face she had constructed, she found she could not recall. It doesn’t matter, this is the best hope we have.

Pulling herself out of her thoughts, Cadence nodded at Ballenes. “Thank you, I think that is the dragon I met. Do you know where he is now?”

Ballenes shook his head. “Cinna was always on guard duty, if he’s not there I don’t know where he’d be.”

“If he has taken up injury this morning then he is most likely being treated in the medical quarters of the barracks,” Brazen explained, looking to Cadence. “If you wish to find him look there princess.”

The confirmation of Cinna’s location settled Cadence’s worryful mind. Finally, someone who can explain what happened to those dragons. Yet in the back of her mind a small voice whispered her doubts. What if he couldn’t control those two? What if this strained leg of his is my fault?

“Will you escort them there Ballenes?” Brazen gestured towards the guard with a claw as he turned back to his table of papers. “And return to duty after that.”

Nodding, Brazen pirouetted on the spot and took a few steps towards the door before looking back to make sure the others were following. “I hope you do not mind a quick pace princess, I have left my post for long enough already.”

An obsidian structure clung to the inside of the palace walls, the lack of splits causing it to appear to be made of the same stone.

“Our humble barracks princess,” Ballenes said, pausing for a moment to direct his party’s eyes to the building with a claw before continuing. The tall obsidian door opened with a light push, squeaking as it swung inside.

As they moved through the stone hallways, closed doors passed them on either side, symbols carved into each one.

Are those names? Cadence thought, trying to discern meaning from the symbols in the short time she had as they passed. “Do the guards live here?”

Glancing back at her, Ballenes nodded. “Of course, we need to be close by to the king if anything happens.”

Cadence thought back to her battle at the palace gates, the ringing of her magic and snarls of the dragons. I doubt they’d even notice. Pushing the thought from her mind, she looked past Ballenes and further into the barracks. At least one guard saw what happened.

They rounded a corner and Ballenes stopped, stepping to the side. “This is the medical quarters princess. If you don’t need me for anything else I’d like to return to my post.”

Looking to the guard, Cadence forced a smile to her lips. “We’ll be fine from here.” Moving beyond Ballenes, she stepped into a long room, beds lining either side. Glancing from side to side, she found no one in the room but a single dragon, this one lacking the armor of a guard.

“Excuse me!” Cadence called, moving towards the dragon. “Has there been a guard in here?”

Meeting Cadence with her eyes, the dragon nodded, a feminine voice leaving her lips. “Captain Vessi left only a little while ago.” Eyes focusing on Cadence, the dragon blinked a few times before a smile broke across her deep purple muzzle. “You’re that pony princess aren’t you?”

Cadence nodded, her shoulders and eyes falling. “Yes, I am.” Taking a deep breath, she looked back up to the dragon. “Have there been any other dragons in here today? I’m looking for one named Cinna.”

A giggle left the dragon’s lips, her claw coming up to cover a widening smile. “No, I haven’t seen him at all today, but if I do I’ll tell him the princess is looking for him.”

“Well, are you sure?” Cadence took another step towards the dragon, the hope in her chest spiralling downward, twisting her stomach in knots. “We were told he’d hurt his leg and that he was in the medical bay recovering.”

Concern raced across the dragon’s features, creasing her brow and stealing her smile away. “No, I haven’t seen him at all, and you say his leg’s hurt. Poor Cinny, it must be quite bad if he left his post.”

Sighing, Cadence bit at her lip. Why is it so hard to find dragons when I try? “Is there anywhere else he might be? If he isn’t here and he isn’t on duty.”

The dragon’s purple cheeks darkened, her eyes finding a sudden interest in the wall. “There is one.” She shook her head, returning her gaze to Cadence. “No, he doesn’t do much but guard. He even works his days off because he loves it so much.”

Cadence’s heart finally hit rock bottom in her chest. How could someone who always does the same thing just disappear? A picture flashed through Cadence’s mind, Flo bent over Silvia, filling her with fire until she faded into dust. No, he would have to die for that to happen.

Another image pushed Flo and Silvia aside, the pair of snake-dragons, one held down by Cinna and the other at his side, claws piercing grey scales. Cadence shook her head, scrunching her eyes tight against the nightmarish fantasy. It didn’t happen, it can’t have happened.

“Is something wrong princess?” Flo’s words drew Cadence from her thoughts, shattering her haunting thoughts and opening her eyes.

Looking to her side, Cadence found Flo’s concerned eyes. “I’m fine Flo. I thought something had happened for a moment, but it’s alright.” She returned her attention to the dragon before her. “Well thank you for your help, if you see Cinna can you tell him I want to speak with him?”

“I will do.” The dragon nodded.

Turning, Cadence found Skylight and Cloud already a few steps ahead, Shining and Flo waiting on either side of her.

“What if you dreamt that dragon?” Shining suggested as they walked, trying to conjure a answer that would settle the obviously stressed Cadence. “You and Flo would have been so tired you’d have been half asleep.”

“No,” Cadence shook her head, recalling the touch of a claw on her coat, his voice in her ears. “He was definitely there, he woke me up.” Flo nodded in agreement.

Breathing deeply, Shining rolled his eyes back into his head and continued to think. After a few moments he spoke again. “That other guard said they all live in these barracks, maybe Cinna is in his room?”

The idea brought a hint of warmth to Cadence’s limbs, a smile touching at the corners of her lips. “Yes, maybe he is.” Turning her head to the side, Cadence studied one of the doors, only a few scratched symbols discerning it from the next. “Which one is his though?”

“Let me look princess.” Leaving Cadence’s side, Flo moved to the nearest door. “I can read some things.” She stared at the symbols for a few moments, lips moving. “Du-sum.” Looking back to Cadence, Flo shook her head. “Not this one.”

They moved past one door, then another and another, Flo declaring the name on each. “Tirsus. Stult. Lecego.”

“What are you three doing?” Skylight’s voice gave Cadence break from waiting.

Lifting her eyes, Cadence found the pegasus pair coming back down the hall to meet them. “Sorry, I should have called you two.” She motioned at Flo with a hoof. “We’re trying to find Cinna’s room and Flo can read more dragon than Shining or I.”

A smile sprang across Cloud’s lips. “I learnt some draconic symbols from a book when I was a foal, maybe I can help as well.” He kissed Skylight cheek before joining Flo in her search, moving even slower than the dragon.

Step by step they moved through the hallway, each name the searching pair called out not the one they were looking for. At the end of the hall they turned and continued down the side, Cadence’s mind with little to do but wander.

Where could Cinna have disappeared to? She wondered, the memory of Silvia’s body burning up in flames still lingering in her mind. No matter how many times she tried to push the thought away it always came back, a possibility she didn’t want to accept.

“Princess!”

A call from the barracks entrance drew Cadence from her idle thoughts and lifted her eyes towards the oncoming dragon.

Studying the dragon, it took Cadence a moment to realise the familiarity. “Ballenes?”

Panting for breath, he stopped a step before her, nodding. “Yes. You still are looking for Cinna aren’t you?” His eyes would not meet Cadence’s, but studied the ground, his tight lips squirming against each other.

Nodding, Cadence felt her brow crease with concern, stomach twisting itself in a knot. Flo and Cloud had noticed the guard by now and rejoined the group.

“I was curious after what you told me, so on my way back to my post I stopped by the gate.” A deep breath lifted Ballenes’ shoulders. “I found this in the garden.” Unfolding his wing, he held out a twisted piece of metal before Cadence.

Looking closely, she saw scratches around the edges, holes curved in a way that they would match a row of teeth. The centre held much deeper scratches, forming two symbols unfamiliar to Cadence.

Touching at the engraving with a hoof, she stared into Ballenes’ hardened features. “This is his name, isn’t it? Cinna.”

Ballenes replied with a nod. “Every guard has their name engraved on the back of their helmet, but this is only a scrap of Cinna’s. It must have been torn off somehow.”

“The Whispering Wings.” Cadence bit her lip once the words left her mouth, realisation rushing to fill her mind. They got away, Silvia died for nothing.

At her side Cadence felt the warmth of scales. “It wasn’t for nothing princess,” Flo said, reading Cadence’s thoughts. “She protected us from the bad dragons.”

Yes. Cadence felt a smile coming to her lips at Flo’s words. “Yes, she did, but we can’t just let them get away with this. They’ve taken two lives, I won’t let them take more.”

“Princess.” Ballenes’ voice brought all attention to him. “If I may say, two lives is nothing compared to all that The Whispering Wings have taken.”

“It doesn’t matter. They’re going to stop killing before I leave this city.”

A sigh left Ballenes’ lips, his wings retreating back to his side, taking the scrap of metal with it. “I’m sorry to say this, but if you stay true to your words, you’ll never leave this city.” He made to turn away.

“How do you know if you don’t try?” Cadence’s words stopped Ballenes mid-turn, his eyes lifting to meet hers.

“Princess, it is every guard’s dream to stop all of the wrong in this city, we’ve all tried, but it’s not possible.” Completing his turn, Ballenes stepped away and out of the barracks. Silence filled the air as his steps faded, everyones tongues held by their own thoughts.

Shining was the first to speak. “How do we know Cinna is dead?”

Twisting neck to the side, Cadence’s smile fell from her lips as she met Shining’s eyes. “Well, those two dragons are gone, and he was the one I asked to take care of them. He’s missing and only a shard of his helmet is left behind, all twisted and torn. I don’t know how he could still live unless he was with The Whispering Wings all along, but I don’t want to think of that.”

“But where is his body? Dragons don’t just disappear like that,” Shining questioned. Stepping up beside him, Skylight nodded, a want for answers in her features also.

“Well, they actually do.” Cadence glanced at Flo before looking back to the two ponies beside her. “I was it this morning. When a dragon dies another can breathe fire into them and they burn up. There would be nothing left behind.”

Both Shining’s and Skylight’s eyes unfocused as they pictured flames consuming a dragon, Cloud moving to stand beside Skylight as they did so. “What now then?”

Rolling her eyes into her head, Cadence sighed deeply. “I don’t know. I want to stop The Whispering Wings, but how?”

A small smile touched Shining’s lips as Cadence’s voice brought him from his thoughts. “You could try talking with them, it worked with Ember.”

“Well, I could try.” The smile on Shining’s lips spread to Cadence’s, her eyes shifting to meet his. “The only problem is finding one to talk with.”

“I’m sure they’ll return,” Skylight said, her gaze distant, eyes filled with memories. “They won’t stop after one failure.”

“Yes,” Cadence nodded, her smile fading and eyes falling somewhat. “Now they know about our tent however, will they try again while we’re sleeping? What if they decide to strike at a different time?” Her words brought silence over the group, Flo shifting from Cadence’s side to stand before them all.

“They don’t attack at daytime,” She said, drawing all eyes to her. “I’ve heard lots of dragons being killed by them. Always at night. Drip said they are scared of the sun.”

The knowledge brought a small relief to Cadence worryful mind. “Well at least we don’t have to worry about them attacking us during the day.” A sigh left her lungs, head turning to look back down the barracks’ hallway. “We should tell that dragon about Cinna. It seems like she cared a lot for him.”

Following the direction of her eyes, Cadence moved down the hallways, two sets of steps following her.

“We might take a little break,” Cloud said, drawing Cadence’s gaze back to where he and Skylight stood, wings half open. “Our wings are itching to fly.”

Smiling at them, Cadence nodded. “Go ahead, we won’t be too long. We’ll see you back at our room.” At her word, the pegasus pair bounded away, Cloud chasing Skylight’s laughter.

Cadence turned back into the barracks, staring at the far wall for a moment before taking a deep breath. “Well, waiting won’t make this any easier.”

“What did you say?” Concern written across her features, the purple dragoness’s shoulders heaving with each panicked breath. Shaking her head, she took a step back from Cadence.

“I know it’s hard to hear this, but we just found out Cinna’s dead,” Cadence repeated. “It seemed like you cared for him when we spoke to you earlier.”

A shiver shook violently at the dragon’s body, her legs collapsing underneath and allowing her to fall to the ground. Still shaking, she lowered her head, nestling it as close to her chest as she could. “Cinna, gone?”

Moving to sit beside the dragon, Cadence opened a still sore wing over the dragon’s scaly back, careful not to hurt herself on the spikes. “I know-” Cadence stopped herself, thinking over her words. I know how much it hurts? Do I really? It was a thought Cadence had found herself returning to again and again during her time in Rockholm. I don’t know what it’s like to lose someone.

Holding her tongue, Cadence sat with the dragon in silence, unsure of what words would comfort her. After a few moments Shining’s voice filled the air, lifting both Cadence’s and the dragon’s eyes towards him.

“At least he died doing what he loved.”

The dragon nodded in agreement, wiping back the streams that ran down her cheeks. “Yes, guarding was always his favourite thing.” Her lips hinted at a smile as she spoke, the shaking of her limbs slowing to a stop.

Turning to meet Cadence’s eyes, the dragon gently shrugged the wing from her back. “You don’t have to stay with me princess. I’m sure you have much more important things to worry about.”

Cadence allowed her touch to retreat and a comforting smile to spread across her lips. “Well, we don’t have anything waiting. We can stay-”

“I do appreciate your kindness princess,” The dragon cut Cadence off, shifting slightly away from Cadence. “But I’m sure you have more important things to do.”

Noticing the dragon’s retreat and the tone in her voice, Cadence stood, nodding. “We’ll leave you then,” Lips open, she paused, studying the dragon’s features. “What was your name?”

“Gloria.” The words came with a smile.

“Gloria. I hope we can meet again, on a better day.”

“I do to.”

Cadence turned at Gloria’s words, finding Shining and Flo facing the door, waiting for her. No one spoke as they moved into the hallway, moving past door after door until the sun’s light greeted them once more.

“Well, what do we do now?” Cadence questioned once they stepped from the barracks back into the palace courtyard. Many thoughts weighed down on her mind, Ember’s recovery, the journey ahead to rebuild his bonds with Obsidian. Most of all scenes of the previous night came to her again and again, reminders of the horror that waited somewhere in the city.

The constant storm of worry in Cadence’s mind consumed so much of her attention that a grumble from her stomach went unnoticed by her. Yet it brought chuckling from Shining’s lips.

“Why don’t we have something to eat?” He draped a foreleg over Cadence’s withers as he spoke, kissing at her cheek. “It sounds like you’re hungry, and I know I am.”

Turning to meet Shining’s kiss with her own lips, Cadence felt a smile spreading across her muzzle, the dull ache of her stomach heard above the noise in her head. “That’s a great idea, we can talk about our plans over a late lunch.”

“We’d have to trap one.” Silence followed Skylight’s suggestion, only the sound of Cloud and Cadence finishing of their chocolate pastries filling the air.

Finishing her mouthful, Cadence brushed the crumbs from her lips with a hoof before speaking. “I don’t want to force one of them to talk. It seems too much like an interrogation.”

“Cadence,” Cloud said, finishing the last scraps of his pastry before continuing. “I know you don’t want to hurt any of The Whispering Wings, but we might have to if we want to stop them. With what little I saw of them last night, it seems like their desire to fulfil their task is their greatest.”

Sighing, Cadence nodded in agreement. “It does seem that way.” Memories of the previous night crept from their nook in her mind, filling it with images of the two snake-like dragons charging again and again at her magical barrier. “They wouldn’t stop, even if it seemed impossible.”

“So it’s decided,” Skylight said, taking Cadence’s silence as an answer. “We’re capturing one.”

“How will we?”

Shining’s question brought a smile to Skylight’s lips, her eyes roaming the room for a moment before returning to the three before her. “Using your tents.” Her words caused Cadence and Shining to share a look, both shaking their heads before looking back to Skylight.

“That sounds like a silly idea,” Shining said, a small smile on his lips as he continued to shake his head.

“Why? They stopped the dragons last night.”

“Yes, but they stopped the dragons from getting inside. How are we going to get one of them inside a tent?”

The smile on Skylight’s lips spread into one of her rare grins, eyes alight with excitement. “Those dragons use smell to find things. We can use it against them.”

From Skylight’s muzzle the smile sprang to Shining’s and Cloud’s, Cadence’s features still holding apprehension. “Well I’m staying out of these plans. I don’t feel comfortable plotting to trap someone like this.”

Turning, Cadence stepped towards the balcony where Flo sat, Shining’s hoof lifting after her.

Cloud caught the hoof with his wing, meeting Shining’s eyes with a smile. “Let her go, it sounds like she’s had enough stress for one day.”

Allowing Cloud to lower his foreleg to the ground, Shining nodded. “You’re right. I’ll be more focused on planning with her as a distraction anyway.” The smile on his muzzle split into a grin as he finished speaking, a chuckle shaking his body. “Who’d have thought you’d be the one giving advice?”

A blush lit the white of Cloud’s cheeks pink, his eyes falling away from Shining’s. “I wasn’t trying to, I simply thought it would be better if she took a break.”

Seeing Cloud’s embarrassment, Shining closed the gap between the two before placing a foreleg over Cloud’s shoulders. “Don’t be worried about it, I meant it as a compliment.”

“Enough you two,” Skylight’s words drew both stallions’ eyes to her. “We have a trap to plan.”

Outside on the balcony Cadence nestled beside Flo without a word, mirroring her position, gazing out over the city. The laughter of the three still inside quickly faded to hushed whispers in her ears.

Watching the activity over the city, Cadence found her thoughts soon drifting back to the troubles that plagued her. Issues that seemed to require her attention every hour of the day to be solved. Taking a deep breath, she tried to push the thoughts from her mind, yet with nothing to fill their place, they returned.

With little left to do, Cadence’s lips moved simply to distract her from the thoughts. “What do you do out here all day Flo?”

Turning, Flo met Cadence’s eyes as if she were first realising the pony was there. A smile touched Flo’s muzzle at the sight. “I watch everyone do stuff.” Extending a claw, she directed Cadence’s attention to a distant flier. “That’s Fumore. He said he would never fly again after Ember stole his hatchling from the air beside him. Yesterday was the first I’ve ever seen him up there.”

Following the dragon with her eyes, Cadence watched as he looped the air before disappearing behind a building. The sight brought a warmth to her heart and the buzz of joy to her mind. I have been helping. She felt her lips spread so wide it hurt, a foreleg lifting to bring Flo into a tight hug. “Thank you so much Flo. You know exactly how to brighten my day.”

Confusion written across Flo’s face, she returned the embrace anyway. “What did I do princess?”

“Oh don’t worry Flo, it makes it so much better that you weren’t trying.” Breaking from her hold on Flo, Cadence turned back to the city. “Are there any other dragons you can tell me about?”

Looking back over the scene herself, Flo’s breath caught in her throat at what she saw. “There’s a big scary dragon coming right for us.” Shifting at Cadence’s side, she clutched tighter to the pony, eyes pinned on the sky.

“What do you mean-” Cadence’s voice was cut off when her eyes found Ember, soaring over the city towards them. “Oh,” was all she could say, but her mind was racing. Why is Ember coming here now? Something bad must have happened. Did The Whispering Wings go after him? A burst of laughter left Cadence’s lips at the last thought. It won’t be that.

Turning to Flo, Cadence lifting the dragon’s eyes to meet hers. “We should move Flo, Ember needs room to land.”

Flo’s lips formed a pout, her head shaking. “I don’t want that meanie landing here.”

A sigh left Cadence’s lungs as she stood slowly, Flo following her lead. “You know Ember isn’t like that anymore. That dragon you were telling me of before?”

“Fumore?”

“Yes, Fumore. He’s out flying because this city doesn’t have to fear Ember anymore.”

The pout on Flo’s muzzle faded somewhat as she moved towards the balcony door with Cadence. “If you say so princess, but I’m watching him closely.” She narrowed her eyes, flicking them from Cadence to Ember and back.

As Ember’s claws clicked against the balcony they were joined by three more ponies from inside.

“Why is Ember here?” Shining whispered into Cadence’s ear as he stopped beside her.

Cadence’s lips opened, but Ember spoke before she could respond. “I am sorry to intrude like this princess, but there is something that needs to be brought to the attention of the king.” He failed to meet Cadence’s eye as the words left his lips, instead choosing the grey stone below to occupy his gaze.

“Well, what is it?” In her chest Cadence’s heart was pounding so fast it felt as if it would explode. “Did something happen outside of the city?”

“Yes,” Ember nodded, his head twisting back to glance at the city wall, eyes unable to find it for all the buildings blocking its view. “I saw what must have been a whole army hidden in the mountains, I think they also saw me.”

“It must be the army one of those dragons mentioned the other day,” Cloud said, bringing a wing from his side to brush at the underside of his muzzle. “I’ve been thinking about them ever since Flo told us, wondering how they’d hide an army large enough to take over the city close to it.”

Still nodding, Ember met Cadence’s eye. “They’re only a short flight from the wall. All of them could be here before sundown.”

Taking a deep breath, Cadence looked first to Shining, then to Cloud and Skylight. “Well what would you do if this happened to your army?”

Shining and Skylight both shrugged, but Cloud only smiled, eyes distant, as if the plan was an old memory. “I would fake a retreat, obviously, but not enough that it looks forced. Then I would skirt wide around the city and wait on the opposite side.” Smile fading, he looked to Cadence. “That, or I’d attack right away.”

“Well,” Looking past Ember, Cadence stared at the dimming horizon, fearing to see an army of black specks against it. “Hopefully they don’t choose the second plan.”

Turning away from group, Ember spread his wings once more. “Can you tell the king? I will go back and watch what they are doing, without being seen this time.” As he bent his legs to take off, Cadence held out a hoof after him.

“Wait Ember, are you sure you want to sleep outside the city tonight? What if that army hunts you down?”

Twisting his neck to look back at Cadence, Ember’s lips spread with a smile. “Princess, I’m strong enough to protect myself. You have your own troubles to worry about.” He leapt from the balcony as the last words left his mouth, cracks forming in the stone to show where he had stood.

A sigh escaped Cadence’s lips as she watched him soar over the city. “Well, we should tell Obsidian. A king needs to know when his city is in danger.”

“More news of this plot.” A chuckle shook Obsidian’s chest as he glanced between Cadence and his ever present advisor, Brazen. “Princess, you must assure me you haven’t been dreaming these things.”

“No,” Cadence shook her head. “I have been told these things by dragons I trust. There is an army waiting outside the city. What Flo overheard yesterday hinted at it, and what,” She bit at her tongue before Ember could leave her lips. “Another dragon told me they saw today confirms it.”

“Another dragon?” Obsidian drew a heavy breath. “Princess, I do trust you greatly, but this story is sounding more and more like one of Brazen’s. Words from mystery dragons proclaiming mystery armies. I need more than that princess.”

Sighing deeply, Cadence chewed at her lip. Should I tell him? With a subtle nod, she decided. “It was Ember who spotted the army. A dragon I have grown to trust over the last few days.”

“Ember?” Obsidian breathed, his eyes growing distant. “My son?” At Cadence’s nod he allowed his eyes to fall. “I had heard tales of you and him together, but like most of the rumors in this city I place little faith in them until I can see them with my own eyes.”

“Well, there is some truth to those rumors. He has visited the city by my side.” A memory from previous days flashed through Cadence’s mind, the terrified Ember jammed between two walls. “But we can talk about that later, right now you need to know there is an army waiting in the mountains.”

“Right.” Obsidian nodded. “As a king the duty to protect my city comes first, and to protect my city there is nothing I can do.”

Shining stepped forward from Cadence’s side. “Can’t you send some scouts out to find out what they’re doing?”

“That would be putting my guards at risk needlessly. We already have knowledge of the army.”

“You could monitor their movements, find out when and if they are going to attack.” Shining shook his head, wracking his brain for what little military tactics he could recall from his guard studies. “Maybe you could send spies into their camp to find out their plans?” Looking back, he longed to find the face of Cloud, but the pegasi had decided to skip this meeting.

From beside the king Brazen spoke up. “These all sound like excellent plans my king. With information on this potential invader we can plan a counterattack. I could organize a few guards to take the duty myself.”

“But that would be putting them at risk,” Obsidian responded, glancing from Shining to Cadence to Brazen.

Cadence moved forward to stand at Shining’s side once more. “Obsidian, your guards are at risk all the time. One of them even died this morning, the one I was looking for, Cinna.”

Turning to Cadence, Obsidian held her eyes for a moment before dropping his gaze to the ground. “I know, that is the reason I can’t let this happen. He died needlessly, pointlessly.”

“He died protecting you!” Shining protested, his cry echoing around the throne room, chased away by silence.

A heavy breath lifted and lowered Obsidian’s shoulders. “Princess, prince. I would like it if you would leave. There are matters I need to discuss with my advisor.”

Nodding, Cadence nudged Shining towards the door before following herself. The moment they stepped from the room a hum erupted behind them, Obsidian and Brazen’s voices battling back and forth in hushed tones.

“I hope Ember can see how much his guards want to help,” Shining said as they moved towards the stairs. “Most didn’t enlist to sit around and watch all day.”

Dinner passed in a chain of thoughtful bites for Cadence, the other three ponies planning without her. Flo sat at her side, head moving to and fro as she followed the conversation.

“Cadence, can we use your saddlebags?” Shining’s voice drew Cadence from her thoughts, lifting her eyes to meet his.

“Well,” Cadence paused, pushing her own thoughts aside and grasping Shining’s words as they flew by. “As long as you don’t ruin them. Celestia gave them to me and I want them to last the whole trip.”

A wide grin on her lips, Skylight nodded for Shining. “We’ll keep it safe.”

Seeing Skylight’s expression, Cadence shook her head at the three. “Well, as long as it’s not torn to shreds I won’t mind. What are you using it for anyway?”

The three plotters shared glances before Shining finally spoke up. “We’re trying to bait The Whispering Wings with it. The use their sense of smell instead of their eyes, so if we can hide your scent and leave the bags in the open they’ll go for them.”

Cadence’s brow creased with question. “What are you planning on doing to hide my scent?” Blushes crept into both Skylight and Cloud’s cheeks.

“We are planning on using Cloud and Skylight’s tent to hide you,” Shining answered, looking to the heap of canvas while breathing deep, a smile touching his lips. “Its smell will easily cover you up.”

“When we see one of The Whispering Wings come inside,” Cloud quickly followed, his eyes downcast and white cheeks burning brighter and brighter. “We’re going to wait till they reach the centre of the room before Shining captures them in one of the tents.”

Nodding along with Cloud, Skylight lifted her eyes to Cadence as Cloud’s words faded, her cheeks returning to their usual blue and a smile stretching her lips. “Then we question them.”

Leaving the cool night air behind her, Skylight moved into their room to find it empty, only a pair of yellow saddlebags disrupting the black sea of obsidian. Bounding forward, she leapt for the lone bags only to have a ringing fill her ear, a tint of blue fill her vision.

“Perfect timing Shining.” Cloud stepped from the tent nestled in the room’s far corner, Shining following him with horn glowing blue. “Though this drill is growing predictable.” He lifted his voice to Skylight, who now stood, Shining’s magical tent dispersed. “Next time you come through try to do something unexpected, we need to test Shining’s reactions to unpredictable things.”

Nodding, Skylight moved back towards the balcony where Cadence and Flo sat, watching the three as they planned.

“Almost finished?” Cadence asked when Skylight stepped onto the grey stone of the balcony.

Glancing back at Cadence, Skylight nodded. “A few more tests and we’re ready.” She moved through the door once more, this time zipping from side to side and stopping a moment before the bags.

“You missed Shining.” Cadence heard Skylight call from inside, a proud smile on her lips.

“Princess?” Flo’s voice drew Cadence’s scene from the drill inside to the dragon who sat beside her. “What are you going to do with the bad dragon you catch?”

“Well, we’re going to ask him questions. I thought you already knew Flo?”

“No,” Flo shook her head like she was trying to remove a crab from her snout. “I mean after you asked everything. What are you going to do then?”

“Oh.” The question stilled the movement of Cadence’s lips, her eyes unfocusing as she thought. What will we do? Let them go free? A shiver ran through Cadence’s spine as memories of morning came back to her, the nightmarish battle she had fought. No we can’t let a killer go free. Twisted bars, empty in the noon sun replaced the previous pictures. Not again.

“Princess?” Still waiting to an answer, Flo touched Cadence’s shoulder, pulling the alicorn from her thoughts.

“Sorry Flo.” Cadence smiled at Flo. “I lost focus for a moment. “

“So what are you going to do?”

Looking into Flo’s waiting eyes, Cadence felt her mind racing to find an answer. I can’t let them go, but we can’t keep them captive forever either. Ember flashed across her thoughts. Will they change as quickly as he did?

Feeling Flo’s touch once more, Cadence shook her head. “I don’t know what we’ll do Flo. I want to change them, but how they looked last night,” Cadence shivered. “And this morning. It will be as terrifying as Ember was.”

“Change them?” Flo pouted. “Why don’t you make them go away?”

“Make them go away? They’d come right back to Rockholm.”

“No,” Cuddling close to Cadence, Flo shuddered against a pink coat, her voice lowering to a whisper. “Make them go away forever. Like they did to Silvia.”

Cadence’s breath caught in her throat, her foreleg wrapping around Flo, pulling her close. “Flo, I know what they did was a horrible thing, but it’s just as horrible to do the same back.”

“So they get away with it?”

A heavy sigh lifted a dropped Cadence’s shoulders, her eyes falling away from Flo’s. “I don’t know, I’ve never had to think about things like this before.” How does Celestia decide what to do? Do things like these happen around Canterlot?

“We’re done practicing.” Shining’s voice lifted Cadence’s eyes and brought a smile to her lips once more. “Cloud and Skylight are going to get some sleep now, I said I’d wake them up later.” Lowering himself to the stone, he sat on the opposite side of Cadence to Flo. “What have you two been talking about?”

Flo looked to Cadence for an answer, as did Shining. “Well,” She said before gnawing at her lip. How do I put this? Every word that came to her lips felt dark, filling her mouth with a bad taste. “We’ve been discussing revenge for killings.” Cadence winced at her own words, the very topic bringing a sickness to her stomach.

The joy on Shining’s lips shrunk away. “Not the easiest thing to talk about.”

Moving her eyes from Cadence to Shining, Flo stared at him with pleading sapphires. “They can’t get away with it.”

“Who?”

“The Whispering Wings,” Cadence answered, her eyes falling once more. “Flo thinks after we capture them, and question them, we should, we should.”

“Make them go away forever,” Flo finished, her voice on the verge of tears.

Lifting her eyes to Shining, Cadence looked to him for an answer. “What would you do with them?”

Shining’s lips opened but no words left them, his eyes rolling up into his head. Eventually he blew out a single stream of breath, its journey highlighted by the cold. “What they’ve done, killing dragons, it’s a terrible, terrible thing, but we have to give them another chance. Ember changed, why won’t they?”

Nodding along, Cadence’s lips spread with a smile, her unoccupied foreleg reaching up to wrap over Shining’s withers. “That’s what I said, I could never send someone to their death.”

“They need to be punished however,” Shining continued. “I know when I was younger I took my mischief too far sometimes, too many times.” His eyes lit up with memories. “My parents sorted me out though, with a very harsh punishment.”

A giggle burst from Cadence’s mouth. “Did they take away your treats?”

Pouting, Shining nodded, his miserable appearance only causing Cadence to giggle harder, a sigh cutting her off when she recalled the topic of discussion. “What would their punishment be?”

“That I don’t know.” Dropping the pout from his lips, Shining lifted his head to stare at the room before him. “I think it’ll be best to let Obsidian decide that.” He glanced back at the night sky before rising to his hooves. “Why don’t you two come inside, it’s getting late. You don’t want to be out here when they come.”

Nodding, Cadence rose and followed until she realised Fo was not. Looking back, she found the dragon still pouting. “Are you coming Flo?”

She stared up at Cadence for a moment, silent. When Cadence made to turn away Flo sprang upright, chasing her inside. “I’m sorry princess,” She whispered as she came in line with Cadence, nuzzling at her soft pink neck. “I’m still so mad at those bad dragons. I’m not mad at you though.”

“Well that’s good Flo, you shouldn’t hold grudges against those who’ve done nothing wrong to you.” Still following Shining, Cadence moved to the far corner of the room where Cloud and Skylight’s tent had been split in two, one with the flap closed.

As she drew near, Cadence felt the stench of the fabric invade her nose. The smell of sweat and lust, stained into every inch of the tent before her. “The Whispering Wings will never be able to smell me over this.”

Blocking his nostrils with magic, Shining turned and nodded, the spell distorting his voice. “At least we finally know how bad we smell afterwards.” Horn still lit, he back himself inside, leaving enough room for both Flo and Cadence.

Trailing Shining, Cadence settled into the tent as well, tempted to copy his spell. Looking back to where she had stood, she found Flo hesitating, one claw on either side of her snout. “Are you going to sleep with us tonight Flo?

”No.” Backing away, Flo moved back towards the balcony. “It’s too stinky in there to sleep. I’ll watch out for bad dragons outside.”

Lifting a hoof after her, Cadence felt Shining’s touch meet it. “She’ll be fine out there tonight,” He said. “After all, she said they’re only going for your smell, and it seems to be true so far.”

Cadence nodded, allowing the weight of Shining’s foreleg to lower the hoof for her. “Well, what do we do now?”

Watching Flo disappear through the balcony door, Shining silenced his horn, wrinkling his nose at the smell. “We wait.” A deep breath followed his words. “It’s going to be a long night, you should get some sleep.”

Shifting her body, Cadence cuddled up close to Shining, resting her head on his neck. “I’ll stay up with you, keep you company.”

Unseen by Cadence, a smile spread Shining’s lips wide. “I’d like that.” Silence chased his voice, joining both Cadence and he in a trio. Only the breaths coming from both ponies lips and their occasional movement against fabric filling the air.

As the night matured, Cadence’s stomach grew queasy, her thoughts roaming to all that could go wrong. “What will you do if something goes wrong?” She whispered eventually, lips unable to contain the troubles of her mind

“I’ve been thinking about that as well, and I guess we just have to protect ourselves and try again another night.” His back lifted Cadence’s head as he breathed. “Though after one failed trap they might realise what we’re trying to do. It’ll make it much harder to try a second time.”

“Mmm.” Rubbing her cheek against Shining’s coat, Cadence allowed the tingle it sent through her limbs to comfort her, his familiar scent a comfort. “Tonight is now or never then?”

“It might be.”

Quiet fell over Cadence’s ears once more, her unease somewhat settled by the slow strokes of Shining’s hoof along her back. She felt the weight of sleep pulling at her eyelids, the white of Shining’s coat before her eyes fading into black. Worries slipped from her mind as sleep spilled into it.

“Cadence.”

The whisper cut through the haze that clouded Cadence’s mind, her eyes snapping open to find Shining’s eyes above her.

“Princess!”

Another voice called for her before she could even form a word, pulling her body upright and eyes to the room outside their tent. In the dim hint of moonlight Cadence saw Flo dashing for her, a snake-like dragon steps behind.

A moment passed, Cadence’s mind filling with panicked thoughts. It’s chasing Flo, why is it chasing Flo? Her breath left her lungs in a gasp, all thought washing away and love taking over.

The dragon was a step or two away from Flo by now, its rear legs bending slightly and jaw opening wide as if it was about to lunge for her. Flo’s sapphire eyes were filled with pure panic, wide and locked on Cadence, not even daring to look back.

Shining lit his horn, but Cadence’s instincts were quicker, her magic scooping up Flo with one wave of blue, and constricting the pursuer with another. Holding the alarmed Flo gently, she brought her inside the tent, placing the bundle of blue at her side before lifting her eyes.

Behind the first dragon-snake she noticed another long form, deep green scales making the body. It paused, frozen in the light that spilled from the balcony door, nostrils alive as it breathed deep.

Looking closer, Cadence noticed slices in its snout that she had not the previous night, a dark liquid glistening down to its lips. Its features twisted with something that might have been fear before a snarl sprang from its lips and it leapt forward.

“I’ve got it,” Shining called, his alight horn encasing the attacker in a blue cocoon.

With both of the intruders secure in magical bonds, Shining stepped forward, Cloud and Skylight joining him from the other tent. “Why are you targeting Cadence?,” Shining said to the squirming pair before him, and only received snarls in reply.

“We should let them calm down.” Cadence’s voice came from the tent she sat in, Flo curled up at her side. “It’ll only make them angrier if we force them into this..”

The moment Shining looked back to Cadence, the dragon held in his grasp took its opportunity. Forcing its wings from its side, it squirmed and flapped with all its might, twisting from Shining’s blue grasp.

Seeing the snake-dragon fall to the floor, and hearing his claws click on the stone, Cadence forced more magic in her horn. Her breaths grew shaky and eyes tightened as the blue fire around her horn enraged, the aura surrounding one dragon reaching out and snatching up the other.

“It looks like we need to be more careful with how we hold them,” Cloud said, taking a tentative step towards their once again captives before looking back to Shining. “Can either of you make a temporary holding from magic?”

Thinking for a moment, Shining recalled their plan. “We were going to capture them with the tent. Why don’t we try that?”

Cloud nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. “Yes, can you make one there.” He pointed to a spot beside the two suspended dragons. “It’ll give us a chance to test exactly how these tents work.”

Lighting his horn once more, Shining formed a magical tent, the spell almost an instinct for him now.

“Quick,” Cadence grunted from behind them, her teeth gritted and horn overflowing with blue.

Seeing the pain in her composure, Shining silenced his horn before stepping aside, allowing Cadence to see the small tent he had formed. “Go.”

Her shoulders shaking, Cadence pulled the pair apart from each other, moving one towards the ethereal tent. Its head struck the side of the tent and stopped, the disruption in Cadence’s smooth movement sending shudders through her body. Her horn flared and dimmed, the swarms of blue surrounding both dragons rippling, the dragons inside squealing with snarls.

“Sorry,” Cadence managed to utter, every eye on her still shaking body.

Moving towards Cadence, Shining stretched out a hoof towards her but stopped short of touching, afraid the slightest disturbance would break her concentration. “Do you need help?” He whispered, lighting his horn in preparation to lessen her load.

“No.” The breath came with a subtle shake of her head. “Make, around, him.”

The instant he deciphered the meaning behind Cadence’s words Shining sprang upright, his glowing horn dissipating one tent and forming another. “It’s done.”

A gasp came from where Cadence sat, the overpowering sound of ringing fading to one much softer, the inferno that once surrounded her horn dying to a small flame. “Thank you so much,” Her voice was still shaky, only a little more than a whisper.

Free from its cocoon-like imprisonment, the green scaled dragon made for the Shining, the closest pony, with a snarl, only to be forced back by the ethereal walls around it.

“Interesting,” Cloud commented, nodding as the dragon charged and charged again into the impassable barrier. “It keeps threats inside just as well as it keeps them out.” With a smile on his lips, he stepped back from the makeshift cage, eyes unfocusing as thought overtook his mind.

“Can you make another?” Still holding one dragon, Cadence opened her eyes to find Shining doing what she had asked. With the second tent formed Cadence allowed her magic to die away into nothing, a sigh leaving her lips as she did so.

Her mind heavy, Cadence felt her eyelids drooping, the scene before her shrinking to blackness. I need to stay awake. The thought was like a fly trying to lift an anchor, her lips too heavy to even utter a word. Darkness overtook her mind for the second time that night, smothering her with sleep.

The sensation of scales against her side stirred Cadence, her mind waking to the back of her eyelids. Wrapped in fabric, her limbs still felt heavy, but moveable. Cracking open her eyelids, she found a murky brown material before her, blue squirming in the corner of her eye.

Where’s Shining? Cadence thought, reaching out a hoof to lift the tent flap. Its absence gave her a peek of the room beyond, two snake-dragons curled up in separate ethereal cages. The sight brought back memories of the previous night, the struggling dragons fighting against her horn.

Gently moving Flo from her side, Cadence rose and stepped from the tent, moving past the captives and towards the balcony. A trio of ponies under the noon sun greeted her eyes, Shining turning at the sound of her hooves.

“Morning Cadence,” A weak smile lifted his lips, dark sacks of sleep hanging under his eyes. “We got you something for breakfast, but it’s a little cold now.” Lighting his horn, he held a criss-crossed pie before her, the dark red of raspberries showing through.

Taking the offer with her own magic, Cadence laid a kiss on Shining’s cheeks as she sat. “You look terrible,” Looking across the balcony to Cloud and Skylight, she found their features in similar states to Shining’s. “Did you three stay up all night?”

Shining answered with a nod, one of his hooves rubbing at an eye. “We were waiting for those dragons to calm down like you said, but when they both fell asleep before stopping. It was morning by then so we decided to not sleep.”

Looking from tired pony to tired pony, Cadence shook her head. “No, you should all get some sleep. I feel terrible knowing I fell asleep without saying anything.”

Swallowing back a yawn, Skylight met Cadence’s worry with a smile. “We’re trained for this.”

“We should be the ones feeling bad anyway,” Cloud continued. “You saved all of us back there with your magic. I think you deserved the rest.”

“Princess!” The cry came from behind Cadence followed by a bundle of blue scales colliding with her side, Flo cuddling close. “Those bad dragons are sleeping inside.”

Cadence met Flo’s terror with a smile, her hoof reaching up to stroke the dragon’s head. “I know Flo, they can’t escape, we’re perfectly safe.”

“They can’t escape.” Flo rose from Cadence’s side and moved inside once more, taking tentative steps towards the ethereal prisons.

“Meanie!” She called at one and found no response, her legs shaking a little from the force of her shout. “You’re a bad dragon.” A choked gasp followed her words this time, Flo sinking to the floor and a shiver running along her back. “You should just go away. Silvia-” Another gasp broke Flo’s voice.

Watching Flo pour her rage and sorrow out at the dragon, Cadence left the others behind and moved behind her, curling her forelegs over Flo’s back, one hoof running soft and slow down Flo’s side. “Please stop Flo. I know you hate this dragon for taking Silvia away, but this wont solve anything.”

Shaking on floor now, Flo allowed herself to roll back into Cadence’s caress. “You’re right princess. Seeing these meanies reminds me of it. The bad thing they did to her.” She buried her snout into Cadence’s chest, pouring her tears into a pink coat.

Nodding along with Flo’s words, Cadence noticed movement at the edge of her vision. Eyes lifting towards it, she found the caged dragon stirring, its nostrils flaring, tasting the air around it. What it smelt filled its lips with a snarl, claw limply lifting to swing at her, only to be caught by the ethereal wall between them.

“Oh, you’re awake.” Cadence met the snarl with a smile, lifting one of her hooves from Flo to wave. “Are you hungry? Tired?” Looking closer, she noticed the same cuts she had the night previous, no longer glistening but dried over with a hard brown-red. “You’re hurt, who did this to you?”

In response the snake-dragon spat at her, its saliva caught by the tent.

“There’s no need to be angry at me, I only want to help.” By now the other three ponies had noticed the wakefulness of their captive and were moving to stand behind Cadence. “Do you want anything to eat, to drink? Do those cuts hurt?”

Hearing Cadence’s words, Flo lifted her head from the alicorn’s chest and looked up at her. “How can you be so nice to a bad dragon?”

“I have to agree with her Cadence,” Shining said from behind. “All this dragon has done is rage at you, try to kill you, and you ask him if he’s hungry or thirsty? Aren’t you even a little angry at him?”

“Well,” Cadence sighed, staring at the face twisted with anger before her. “I am a little, but he’s still a dragon, he has needs, he can feel hurt.” She lifted her lips in a smile once more. “Are you sure you don’t need anything?”

Shaking his head, the dragon backed away to the far side of its enclosure. “You can’t fool me.” His words were quick and raspy, like he was struggling for breath. “Pretending kindness so I will talk, I can see through your lies princess.”

“Does that mean you don’t want anything to eat or drink?” At another shake of the dragon’s head, Cadence leant forward. “At least let me heal those cuts on your snout.”

The dragon turned his head away from Cadence, choosing to bury his snout in his hooves instead of facing her.

Looking down at the dragon cuddled into her chest, Cadence kissed the top of Flo’s head. “I’ll be right back Flo.” Gently, she eased herself out from under Flo before rising to her hooves and turning to walk through the trio behind.

“Where are you going?” Shining questioned after her.

With a smile still on her lips, Cadence flicked a glance backward. “To get Celestia’s writing. There’s a spell in there I need.” Beside the tent she had slept within sat a stack of papers, her magic soon scooping them up.

Hearing Cadence’s horn light up with blue, a shiver ran through the wakeful dragon, his head following the sound throughout the room. His nostrils shrunk and tail curled up to his claws as he heard her stop before the ethereal wall once more, flipping through page after page while Flo snuggled closer to her side..

Lifting her eyes and noticing the terror in the dragon, Cadence lifted her lips with a smile. “You don’t have to be afraid,” Her voice was soft, like she was speaking to a foal. “I’m not going to hurt you, I only want to heal your snout.” She lowered her eyes once more and returned to flipping.

Behind Cadence, the other three ponies murmured softly to each other, too quiet for the dragon to hear.

“How do we question the dragon with Cadence there?” Skylight asked, shaking her head as Cadence continued to speak comforting words. “She won’t let us near him.”

Watching Cadence as well, Cloud’s lips were wide with a grin. “Don’t worry, whether Cadence knows it or not she’s going to get that dragon to speak. I’ve read about using this kind of method to extract information from prisoners. While everyone else is mean to him, one shows him kindness unlike the rest, befriends him, gains enough trust for him to spill his secrets.”

Skylight’s shoulders sank as she understood what Cloud said. “We’ve got nothing to do then?”

“Yes, and no.” Pulling his eyes away from Cadence, Cloud met Skylight’s pair. “We could go flying.” Seeing the smile lift her lips and the movement in her wings, Cloud turned to Shining. “Will you two be fine here?”

Looking from one caged dragon to the other, Shining eventually nodded. “We’ll be alright as long as these dragons don’t find a way out of their tents. you two go have fun.”

While Cloud and Skylight dashed for the balcony door, Shining moved to Cadence’s side, his eyes examining the pages before her. “Are you looking for that healing spell again?”

“Mmhmm,” Lips tight and eyes pinned to the paper before her, Cadence nodded. “I forgot how many spells Celestia had packed into here.” Picking one out. “Rapid Growth,” She read. “For use when you need to accelerate plant growth. What would we use that for?”

Shining chuckled at the spell. “I don’t know, but I’m sure The Princess thought of everything. No spell will be in there without a reason.”

Returning to paging through Celestia’s writing, Cadence nodded at Shining’s words.

The caged dragon before her was still curled up in the centre of his enclosure, head shifting at every sound.

“Here it is,” Cadence announced eventually, lifting the page before her eyes and placing the remaining stack beside her. Her mouth moved silently as she read it over a few times. Lowering the page, she shifted closer to the ethereal wall, adopting her comforting voice once more. “This might tingle a little, but those cuts will be gone when I’m done.”

Gathering his claws underneath him, the dragon shifted back from Cadence’s voice. “I don’t want your evil magic.” His tail finding an ethereal wall, he sat, lifting a claw to his snout where red-brown crossed through blue scales.

From behind Cadence, Shining lay a hoof on her back, slowly running it towards her tail. “I think you should listen to him Cadence, remember what happened last time you tried to heal Cloud?”

Rolling her eyes into her head, Cadence smiled at the pictures that filled her mind. “Yes, but that was healing a whole wing, this is only a few cuts.” She looked back to the snake-dragon. “Are you sure you don’t want me to heal you?”

His only response was to curl up once more, a claw covering his snout.

“Well, as much as you don’t want this, you need it.” Taking a deep breath, Cadence closed her eyes, horn flaring a with a brighter light than before. A thin string of blue leapt from the magical flame, piercing the ethereal wall and moving towards the dragon.

As the sound of ringing neared the dragon sprang upright, dodging away from the approaching magical stream.

Hearing claws on the stone before her, Cadence opened her eyes and redirected her magic, chasing the dragon around its enclosure with the spell. “Please, stay still, I’m not going to hurt you.”

“Lies,” The dragon hissed back, bouncing from wall to wall to keep his distance from Cadence magic. “You’ll infest my mind with your evil, force me to betray my brothers.”

Sighing, Cadence shook her head, pouring more magic into her horn while whispering under her breath. “Some foals don’t know what’s good for them.” An aura of blue appeared around the dragon’s body, stopping him in mid air.

His head the only part still free, the dragon shook it from side to side, snarling at the magic that held the rest of his body. “Now you show your true colors princess, forcing me to do your will.”

Ignoring him, Cadence directed the thread of her spell towards his snout, mouth moving with ancient words.

At the touch of Cadence’s magic the dragon’s writhing head stopped, the snarl on his lips fading away. A glowing blue thread danced back and forth across the dragon’s cut, the crusted red-brown crumbling away to reveal fresh scales underneath.

As more and more of his injury was healed, the dragon’s lips moved silently, mouth opening and closing like a fish.

Finished its work, the thread faded to nothing, a sigh leaving Cadence’s lips as she lowered the dragon to the ground before releasing him from her magic. “There, your snout is all better now.”

Free from Cadence’s grasp, the dragon lay still for a few moments, only the rise and fall of his back showing life.

“Did you do something else to him?” Shining asked, watching the dragon with curious eyes.

“No,” The dragon answered, surprising all three outside his tent. “She healed me.” His words were soft, like a beast tamed compared to the hisses previous. Lifting a claw, he brushed gently at the scales the had been torn moments before. “She healed me.”

Drawing a rasping breath, the dragon rose and moved forward until his snout bumped against the walls of his prison. “Why would you heal me princess? You’re the greatest evil to ever enter our city.”

A smile touched Cadence’s lips at the dragon’s confused words. “What gave you that idea? I’ve only ever wanted to help this city.”

“The stories they told,” The dragon’s head shook from side to side. “The stories everyone told. You enslaved Ember’s mind with your magic by stealing a dozen hatchlings and sacrificing them to the sun. You’re playing with the King’s mind as well, slowly filling it with your evil. Is this not you?”

“No,” Lifting a hoof, Cadence pushed it through the ethereal barrier and touched the dragon’s snout, pulling gasps from the two beside her. “I haven’t done any of those things. I befriended Ember, helped calm his rage. Obsidian, I haven’t filled his mind with evil, I wouldn’t even know how.”

At the touch of Cadence’s hoof, the dragon lifted his claws to cup it. “So what is the evil in this city then. Why have we been sent if not to purge the darkness from this city?”

“Oh,” Cadence shook her head slowly. “You poor dragon.”

Watching her, Flo pouted, lifting a claw to grasp at Cadence’s foreleg. “What do you mean princess. He’s a bad dragon. He made Silvia go away.”

Looking down to meet Flo’s eye, Cadence laid a soft kiss on her snout. “I know he did, and it was a horrible thing, but I don’t think he sees what he did as wrong.” Drawing her eyes away from Flo, Cadence looked back to the dragon before her. “Do you?”

Releasing his grip on Cadence’s hoof, the dragon took a step back from her touch. “I was only defending my brother as we tried to rid this city of evil, but how can evil be kind? So much more kind than the elders ever were.”

“Is that who cut you?”

“Yes. We deserved it after failing.” The dragon lifted a claw to his snout once more, rubbing it along the scales as if he could not believe it had healed.

Cadence’s breath caught her in throat, a hoof lifting to cover her open mouth. “They did that because you failed once? What would they do if you failed again?”

“Kill us.” The voice that carried the words did not match their weight, like death was a fair punishment to the owner.

Looking from one snake-dragon to the other, still sleeping one, Cadence shook her head, mind still processing what she had heard. Eventually she responded. “Don’t you think that’s cruel?”

“That is how it always has been, but compared to what you’ve done for me. No one has ever been so kind.”

Turning her head from one side to the other, Cadence met Shining’s eyes, then Flo’s. “Well, that’s what friends do.”

“Friends?” Moving the claw from his snout, the dragon lifted it towards Cadence. “How can we be friends?”

“Don’t listen to her Moretur,” Another rasping voice filled the air before Cadence could speak, her eyes drawn to the other ethereal cage. “Remember what Aldior said, she wants to poison your mind.”

Shifting his body to face the familiar voice, Moretur stepped forward until the walls of his enclosure stopped him. “I know we were told that brother, but I not sure anymore. She has been kinder to me in these few moments than any of the elders ever were.”

“She was only kind to you so you would lower your guard,” The other caged dragon responded. “The moment you tell her what she wants it is the death of both of us.”

Watching the two converse, Cadence couldn’t help but smile as Moretur defended her.

“Brother, I know you think that way. Last night I thought like you too, but the way she speaks,” A shiver ran down Moretur’s spine, his claw lifting to touch his snout. “There is nothing but kindness in her voice. She even healed my punishment.”

Green-scaled lips were stilled by Moretur’s words, the other dragon lifting a claw to his snout to mirror his brother before inhaling deeply. “I smell no blood on your snout, but what does a healed wound mean?”

Silence filled the air as Moretur dropped the claw from his snout to his side, shoulders sinking. “Vensol, I know that poisoned gift still wounds your heart, but-”

“It means nothing!” Vensol shouted, interrupting his brother. “I had to learn what the gift of an enemy means.” Lifting his chin, he ran a talon down his neck, over a curved row of indents in the green scale. “I don’t want you to suffer my mistake as well.”

The cries echoed around the room before fading into nothing. No one spoke, only the sound of heavy breathing came from Vensol.

Waiting for either of the dragons to continue, Cadence shifted in her spot, pressing her lips into Shining’s ear before whispering, “Do you think we should leave them alone?” She felt his coat move against her as he nodded.

Nodding as well, Cadence rose to her hooves, lifting her voice so the whole room could hear. “Well, we’re going to leave for a few moments. Do either of you want any food or drink.”

“I don’t want your poison,” Vensol spat back, his words like darts.

“What about you, Moretur, right?” Feeling the hate of Vensol’s voice weighing on her smile, Cadence forced it even wider, uncaring whether if the dragon before her could see it or not. “Are you hungry?”

Turning away from his brother and towards Cadence, Moretur’s head lifted, a smile highlighting his lips for the first time since he had arrived. It looked unnatural, as if his muzzle had never tasted the sweetness of the expression. “I haven’t eaten in days. Anything would be appreciated.”

Touching Flo’s side with her hoof, Cadence met the young dragon’s eyes. “Come on, let’s go.”

A pout on her lips, Flo stood, burying her muzzle in Cadence’s ear. “We shouldn’t leave them alone. The meanies will escape.”

“Trust me, they’ll be fine,” Cadence insisted, nudging Flo forward. “If they could escape they would have done it by now.” Moving forward with Flo at her side, Cadence heard the hoofsteps of Shining follow them to the door.

“I don’t know if I’m comfortable leaving them,” Shining said as they stepped into the hall and headed for the stairs. “What if they find a way out of the tents.”

Glancing back at the already murmuring snake-dragons, Cadence felt the smile on her lips grow. “Well, if they do there’ll still be one left when we return.”

“Are you sure about this?”

Facing Shining on the balcony, Cadence nodded for what seemed like the hundredth time that day. “Yes, I don’t want to keep him here if he doesn’t want to stay.” She gazed back inside and found Skylight’s disapproving stare waiting for her, Cloud’s eyes holding an almost identical look.

Both of them spoke as she stepped inside, Cloud’s voice seeming like the squeaking of a mouse beside the lion’s roar that was Skylight’s. “You shouldn’t do this.”

“I know you both disagree with me,” Cadence said, lifting a hoof to silence any further argument. She had heard both ponies reasons, time and time again over the last few days as they discussed what to do with their single prisoner, Vensol. “But I don’t want to stop him from leaving. Keeping him here will only make him hate me more.”

Stepping past the pair of arguments in her ears, Cadence moved to the trio of dragons that stood in the centre of the room, one caged, the other two not. At the sound of her hoofsteps Flo and Moretur turned to face her, a smile on one pair of blue lips, and sorrow on the other.

“Have you said goodbye?” Cadence’s question was directed at Moretur, the dragon looking from her back to his brother.

“Not nearly enough,” Moretur replied, longing filling his voice. “But he needs to go.”

Rearing his lips with a snarl, Vensol spat at his brother, his saliva caught by the ethereal wall between them. “How dare you act like you care about me. You’ve betrayed us all. When you release me from here I’ll kill you I swear.”

Ignoring the enraged dragon, Cadence lit her horn, encapsulating Vensol in her magic before dismissing the tent around him.

The moment he heard the magical barriers fizzling around him Vensol’s rear legs kicked back as if he wanted to spring forward, but his body did not move. Held fast in Cadence’s magic all his struggle did nothing.

“I thought you were going to free me,” He spat down at Cadence. “I knew you were lying this whole time.”

“Well,” Cadence’s smile fell from her lips as she looked up at Vensol. “I had a feeling you weren’t going to leave peacefully, so I need to make sure everyone stays safe.” Stepping towards the group at the balcony door, she waited for them to move aside before floating Vensol through.

At the end of the balcony she released him, a half-dozen steps from her.

Free at last, Vensol crouched on the balcony railing, his wings spreading from his back. “You fool princess, you should have killed me while you had the chance.” Without waiting for a response he somersaulted backward and dropped down the side of the palace.

“Well,” Cadence said, turning to find Moretur behind her, a foreleg extended after his brother. “At least I got through to one of you. Maybe we can help your brother next time we see him?”

Moretur nodded in agreement, stepping to the balcony edge and dropping his snout towards the dim space below. “I don’t know if we’ll hear from him again.”

Slithering through the streets of Rockholm, Vensol quickly found the darkest alleys, a tunnel-like maze that ran between buildings, unknown to most of the city residents. His steps felt sluggish after being immobile for days.

Despite the dull aches in his limbs, Vensol could still navigate the tight and twisting passageways by instinct, not having to stop and feel ahead with wings like some of the lower ranks.

Soon he realized the change in the air around him, from the fresh outdoor to the thick stench that filled The Whispering Wings quarters. Vensol could smell the guards before him, fresh recruits, barely a splash of blood on their claws.

“Vensol,” One of them managed to rasp, surprise obvious in his voice. “We thought the two of you were dead.” Sensing no one behind the approaching dragon, the guard continued. “Did Moretur play the part?”

“Tell Aldior that Moretur found his way in. The princess,” Vensol spat the word. “Will be dead by tonight.”

Claws and Blood

“Obsidian killed her?” Millennium stood from the stone he was lying upon and took a step forward. With the same clear and crisp voice, one that could be heard from horizon to horizon, he continued. “I thought some of our informants in the city had word that he was calming down, that he was no longer a mad king.”

Looking like a hatchling compared to the strong form of Millennium, the messenger shrugged his shoulders, unsure of what to say.

From the flickering shadows to Millennium’s side a dragon stepped forth, his hunched posture placing his height even lower than the messenger's. Words came from his lips as a grumble, “Those were just rumours sir, we also heard tales of the pony princess bending Ember as a pet under her will. You can not believe all our informants say.”

Turning his head to the side, Millennium met the hunched dragon’s eyes with a questioning stare. “If that is true Disia, then how can we be sure these words are?”

Disia clasped his claws before his chest and forced a smile across his lips, nodding his head rapidly as he spoke. “So wise sir, you are right.” Looking to the messenger, he dropped the smile. “Who did you hear these words from?”

“Uh,” The messenger faltered, lifting a claw to scratch his cheek before answering. “It was The Snake sir.”

“Oh,” Disia mocked surprise, his neck straightening to show his full height, still incomparable to Millennium. “We have always been able to trust his word.” Turning back to Millennium, he nodded once more, the smile on his lips spread so wide it appeared to hurt. “We can know for sure this information is accurate.”

Millennium studied Disia’s eyes for a moment, quivering with the fear they held, before releasing a breath. “If you are certain Disia, I will trust on this.” He looked back to the messenger. “Thank you for bringing this message, you may go now.”

With a quick nod the messenger sped out of the cave entrance and down the tunnel beyond.

Rolling his shoulders backward, Millennium stepped forward, following the messenger’s path with strong strides. Disia scuttled behind him, half-running to keep up with the movements of his commander.

“Gather the commanders of each century,” Millennium allowed the words to fall over his shoulder as he walked. “If this mad king is showing his true side once again I want to stop him before anyone else in the city is hurt.”

Nodding along as Millennium spoke, Disia paused at the intersection they came to before calling after his disappearing commander. “I will tell them to meet you in the war room?”

“Yes,” Millennium called back. “Tell them it’s urgent.”

Watching the tall grey and gold scaled dragon disappear down one tunnel, Disia turned to another, muttering to himself as he moved through it. “So high and mighty.” He gritted his teeth thinking of the proud face that taunted him every moment he saw it. “I can’t wait to see how you look when you’re dead.”

Realising what he had said, Disia lifted his head and looked up and down the tunnel, sighing with relief when he realised no one was within earshot. The head of an ash-scaled dragon appeared in the shadow before him, a silky voice accompanying it.

“Learn to hold your tongue Disia, it will find you more trouble than you could imagine.”

Swiping a claw a the hallucination, Disia shook his head with teeth bared. That fool doesn’t know what he’s talking about either. No one does. They’ll all be bowing in fear when I’m king.

Despite the hatred boiling in his belly, he continued along the tunnel, following Millennium's order. Soon the shadows around Disia faded away as light filled his vision, the tunnel walls around him opening up into a high cavern.

Sounds of laughter and playful chatter filled Disia’s head as he stepped further into the cavern, the scowl on his lips deepening. How can they be enjoying themselves when we’re hidden away in these caves? They should be preparing for battle, preparing the victory I deserve.

Disia paused in his movement, eyes glazing over as dreams of his glorious triumph over Obsidian filled his mind. Fantasies he played through time and time again, Putting up with these idiots will make the end to that battle so much sweeter, He reminded himself.

In his dream some mourned for the loss of their commander, Millennium, who had died bravely in battle, but their tears did not last long. How could they with such a brilliant leader to take his place? All bowed as he took his place on the bloodstained throne of Rockholm.

“Disia, why are you standing there looking like an idiot?”

The mocking words and the laughter that followed them broke Disia from his daydreams. When the laughter faded into silence another voice followed.

“I think forgot where he was again.”

Another round of laughter echoed the voice, each joyful noise fanning the flame of Disia’s already boiling blood.

His lips reared back as he lifted his eyes to face the stocky swamp-green scaled dragon standing before him. Twisting his tongue, Disia’s mind flooded with hateful words, his lips shaking, barely able to hold back his wrath.

These nothings are not worth your time, He reminded himself, recalling the words his father had told him many weeks previous, before Disia had departed on this conquest.

“I know you have trouble working with those you see as lesser to you,” He had said as they sat side by side in his father’s private quarters. “But a kingdom cannot be made of just a king, you need a kingdom to rule, and that means you must get along with lesser dragons.”

As his father’s words echoed through his head, Disia released his rage as a breath, forcing a smile across his lips as he spoke. “Millennium wants you all to meet him in the war room.”

At the mention of their serperior’s name, the joking smile on the muzzles of the dragons before Disia shrunk. A murmur ran through them and the shifting of scales against stone filled the air as those sitting stood.

“Lead the way then Disia,” The dragon nearest to him said, his voice free of the playfulness it had held earlier and now fitting of the position he held.

Leading the commanders of each century back the way he had came gave Disia a small swelling of pride in his chest. They need to grow accustomed to this feeling, following me. When I am their victorious general and king they will be doing it a lot. The thought brought a smile back to his lips, the expression lasting until he entered the war room.

The room barely fitted the name it held and was a cave just like the rest of their living quarters. A table of stone was the centrepiece of the room, cloaked in maps and candles, it was the only thing that defined the space from another hole in the ground.

Sitting opposite the entrance, Millennium's eyes wandered the painted landscapes before him, lifting when he heard the sound of a dozen dragons.

“Good, he said, gesturing with a claw for the new arrivals to take a seat. “Make yourselves comfortable, we have much to discuss.”

“Will they continue to attack?” As Cadence spoke, the sun faded towards the horizon behind her, rays of crimson light slicing through the sky like fresh cuts. “After a second failure will The Whispering Wings stop trying?”

Five pairs of eyes were pinned to Moretur, although unable to see them, he could feel their weight. Holding his forehead with a claw he shook his head. “The Whispering Wings have never failed to kill a mark before, I can’t see them leaving you alive so easily.” He chewed at his lower lip as he spoke, squirming where he sat.

Hearing his words, Cadence’s shoulders fell with a sigh. “Well, we’re going to have to keep trying then.” She lifted her head as she said this, looking to Moretur’s downcast face with a smile. “If I can befriend one of you, I can do it to you all.”

“I,” Moretur lifted his head to Cadence’s voice. “I,” The absolute certainty in her words twisted his stomach in knots and punctured his heart like a sword. “I,” As her voice faded to silence, waiting for an answer, Moretur felt the weight of the words in his throat, too heavy for his weak tongue ever to speak.

When the stuttering dragon fell silent and dropped his snout towards the ground once more, Cadence reached out a hoof towards him. “What is it you want to say Moretur?”

Silence gripped the air once more, Moretur slowly lifting his head, forcing the boulder-like words up the tight passage of his throat and onto his tongue. “I can’t tell you princess, you would hate me.” With even the slightest hint of his secret free from his heart, Moretur could breath a little easier.

“Moretur,” Cadence watched the emotion twist through his face. “I could never hate you, I could never hate anyone. You met Ember today, he has come closer to killing me than you ever did, but I forgave him. I know he’s changed, and I know you have.”

Her words only caused Moretur’s heart to sink further. I know you’ve changed.

“Cadence believes lava could change to water,” Skylight joked, earning herself a chuckle from Shining and pulling Moretur’s eyes towards her. “Seriously though,” Her voice dropped into a deeper tone. “Whatever you’ve done, you can leave it behind.”

With Skylight’s words to support her, Cadence felt her smile spreading even wider. “Yes, she’s right. Everyone has good in them, they only have to choose to show it.”

“But I haven’t changed,” Moreture finally blurted, the pressure from both mares spilling the words from depth of his twisted stomach. Like spewing up a sickness, Moretur felt the confession lift ease his insides.

Cadence’s smile fell from her lips when she heard Moretur’s words. “What do you mean you haven’t changed?”

“I knew he was still a bad dragon,” Flo leapt up from her seat beside Cadence and stepped towards Moretur. “No one can ever change from being a meanie so quickly.”

Seeing the discomfort in Moretur’s composure, Cadence lit her horn and brought Flo back to her side. “Now Flo, let him speak before you make any assumptions.” Looking back up to the snake-dragon in front of her, she repeated her question. “What do you mean you haven’t changed?”

“It was our plan for me to change sides all along,” Moretur admitted, his stomach growing sick once more as he waited for anger to come forth from the ponies before him. Hearing only silence, he continued, burying his snout between his forelegs. “We knew we could never pass your scentless barrier, so we needed to find another way in.”

“So you double crossed us,” Despite the situation, Cloud’s voice was full of interest, almost excited. “Gained our trust and planned to murder Cadence while we slept. I only ask why you didn’t act sooner?”

“Cloud,” Skylight punched the stallion in the shoulder with her hoof. “Whose side are you on?”

The smile on his lips fading somewhat, Cloud turned to meet Skylight’s eyes. “I was only asking because someone who truly was a killer, and was only here to kill Cadence would have done it at the first chance he got. Moretur did not.”

Seeing his point, the other three ponies nodded along, Cadence turning her head away from Cloud and back to Moretur. “See, you have changed, you just don’t know it.”

“Then why do I still feel so terrible?” Moretur half-shouted, half-whimpered, feeling the weight of many eyes upon him. “Ever since I came here I’ve been unable to believe how kind you are. I never knew caring like this existed, but I still feel sick to my stomach every night.”

Cadence felt a smile returning to her lips as she stared at the snake-dragon before her, a terror only a few nights ago now seemed as vulnerable as a foal. “Well, are you missing something, someone?”

“Brother.” Was all Moretur could say, his whole body pausing, frozen in thought.

“The one that left today?” Cadence continued for him. “Is he your real brother?”

“Yes, all of The Whispering Wings are. No one ever comes, they are only born into it. Vensol is closest to me however, we were born within the same day.” Moretur’s lips twisted with pain as memories long past resurfaced themselves. “And as cruel as he seemed, he is more loyal than I could ever be.”

Silence fell over the group as Moretur’s words faded, Cadence unsure of what to say next. Cuddled up at Cadence’s side, Flo watched the snake-dragon with unwavering eyes, ready to leap to the defence of her princess at any sign of attack.

Eventually Cloud spoke up, his brow creased with thought. “I’ve been thinking about what you said Moretur, that you were supposed to kill Cadence. When had you planned to do it?”

“As soon as I could,” Moretur admitted. “But Vensol was still trapped after I was freed, I couldn’t leave him alone to die after I killed the princess and fled. That was what I told him a least, after he was free I would strike, but I can’t do it.”

A smile played with the corners of Cloud’s lips, a hoof lifting to knead his cheek. “So The Whispering Wings think you’ve killed Cadence by now?”

After a moment of thought, Moretur spoke. “Yes, but if I don’t return by the end of tonight they will know something is wrong.”

The smile on Cloud’s muzzle spread until his teeth could be seen, a soft chuckle shaking his chest. “For tonight however, we have the advantage.”

Looking to Cloud with questioning eyes, Cadence sighed. “What are you planning?”

Drawn from his fantasies by Cadence’s voice, Cloud turned to her and shook his head. “Nothing yet, but if an enemy wants to make a move tonight, they do it thinking you’re not alive.”

Standing tall over the warroom map, Millennium swept his eyes over the score of commanders packed into the tight rom before him. “Any questions?”

The dragon who raised his voice was exactly who Millennium expected, Valibus. A century commander who thought he was more fit than Millennium to lead, always questioning his authority. “Are you sure it is wise to force our way into this city? It would be better to wait for the tunnelers to finish digging.”

Millennium gritted his teeth at the mention of Valibus’s tunneling dragons, a cowardly tactic, he had declared. “Valibus, the mad king could be taking the lives of more dragons as we speak, we can not wait. We must strike tonight.”

“But Millennium-”

“No buts. We all know what happened during Obsidian’s last rampage, he killed his son and worst of all our queen. I can not wait while innocent dragons die. Now, are there any questions regarding our plan for tonight?”

“Are you sure you should be leading the charge sir?” The one who spoke up this time was Curid. Newest amongst the score of commanders, he looked up to Millennium like a father. “It’s dangerous on the front lines.”

Turning his head to Curid, Millennium sighed, unable to keep a smile from his lips. “I know you are worried for me Curid, but I always lead from the front lines. If I can not put my life on the line for the battle, how can I ask my dragons to do the same?”

A mocking murmur ran through the back rows of commanders, the words it held too muffled for Millennium to decipher them. Pretending to not have heard, he gazed around the cave once more. “Any more questions?”

When no one else spoke up he nodded. “Then go ready your centuries and assemble at the edge of the mountain. We will move before the first star.” Millennium stood still as the commanders filtered out of the room and down the tunnels beyond, quiet voices running between them.

After a few moments only one dragon was left, but not the one Millennium had been expecting. “Belle?” He questioned as the dragon moved forward to meet him. “Should you not be readying your dragons?”

“They’ll be fine,” Belle smiled as she stopped before Millennium. “My century readies much faster than the others. I would prefer to give them the extra rest.” One of the few dragonesses within the century commanders, Belle was well-loved by her dragons, more of a mother to her dragons than a commander

She glanced backward, making sure they were alone before continuing. “I didn’t come to brag about my century though. I came to warn you.” The smile on Belle’s lips fell. “Don’t lead on the front lines tonight.”

The wary tone of Belle’s voice and her backward glances creased Millennium’s brow with question. “Why wouldn’t I. Hiding at the back is what cowards do.”

Millennium’s words stung Belle’s cheeks with red, her commanding style exactly what he had described. “I know you want to show how brave you are, but I’ve heard some of the other commanders talking about,” She glanced backward one last time before leaning forward. “Betraying you.”

Anger chased the questioning from Millennium’s features. “Who has been saying these things? I can not have traitors leading my army.”

Belle’s orange lips parted to speak, but the voice that filled the air was not hers.

“You need to control your commanders,” The grumble came from behind Belle, drawing both her and Millennium’s eyes to the cave entrance where Disia stood, a cut across one cheek leaking red. “They picked me up and carried me halfway down the tunnel as some kind of joke.”

Relief left Belle’s lips as a breath when she realised Disia had not heard her words. Looking back up to Millennium, she smiled. “Stay safe sir, I want to see you again at the end of this battle.” She slipped past Disia and disappeared around the corner.

Alone with Millennium, Disia raised his eyes to meet his commander’s pair. “What was she talking about?”

Millennium blew out a slow breath as he thought. “Empty fears,” He decided eventually, not wanting to believe that dragons among his chosen score would even think of betrayal. Shaking Belle’s words from his mind, he stepped towards Disia. “Come, we must prepare for the battle ourselves.”

Sitting with Flo cuddled up against her, Cadence gazed out over the city and the darkening sky above it. The moon shone bright and alone, not a star joining it yet. Cadence’s hoof stroked at the underside of Flo’s neck, hoping to calm the anger she had released only moments ago.

“You still can’t forgive Moretur for what he did, can you?” Cadence’s words were soft, barely louder than the evening breeze that played with her mane. Against her side she felt Flo’s head shake.

“How am I supposed to? When I see him I can only remember her.” Nuzzling at Cadence’s hoof, Flo’s scales were hot to touch, on the verge of burning Cadence. “I’ll never forget the mean in him.”

Cadence released her breath as a sigh, her eyes lifting to the slowing sea of dragons above. “Well you can’t hold a grudge forever Flo. I hope one day the good he does outweighs the bad in your...” Voice trailing off, Cadence forgot what she was saying and straightened her neck, peering at a shadowy form in the sky.

Noticing the disturbance in Cadence’s speech, Flo looked upwards as well, following Cadence’s eyes. “Is that Ember?” A shiver passed through her body at the name, limbs shifting to free herself from Cadence’s grasp. “I need to hide from that meanie.”

Despite Flo’s efforts, Cadence’s forelegs held her tight. “There’s no need to hide Flo, Ember’s changed, just like Moretur.” Realising they were in the centre of the balcony, she rose, lifting Flo with her. “We should give him room to land however.”

With a great gust of wind Ember’s claws met the balcony and his wings folded away, the sound of his landing drawing the other four from inside. “The army,” Ember said with a heavy breath, his heaving from the fast flight. “They’re assembling, on the mountain.”

Cadence’s eyes widened, looking from Ember to Cloud and back to Ember. “I thought they would retreat after you saw them?”

Nodding in agreement with Cadence’s words, Cloud shifted in his spot, wings twitching as if they could sense a coming flight. "I thought that as well, but it seems they’ve decided to attack. On the night Cadence was supposed to die as well.” Cloud’s last words were soft, spoken so only he could hear them.

Now standing at Cadence’s side, Shining looked up to Ember, urgency filling his eyes and voice. “We need to warn Obsidian right away. How many did you see?”

Ember let out a slow breath as he thought. “More than one thousand, perhaps two, but I’ve never had the ability to count large forces like that.”

Glancing at Cloud, Shining waited for the insightful strategy that he had come to expect from the pegasus. Seeing Cloud’s eyes were still lost in his thoughts, Shining turned back to Cadence. “We should go warn Obsidian,” He looked to Ember. “While we do that can you go organize the guards in the courtyard?”

Confusion filled Ember’s features. “Why would the guards have any reason to listen to me, anyone else would be better for this task.”

Shining shook his head. “Even if they don’t listen, which they probably won’t, your appearance will get them ready to defend the king.”

Realising Shining’s thought process, Ember nodded before opening his wings. “You should reach the courtyard quickly however. I will need someone to explain things if they do not listen to me.” He left the words behind as he leapt into the air, a sharp crack of stone reaching the ears of all.

Turning to the remaining group, Shining found Cloud’s eyes still gazing into the distance, his mind absent from the balcony. Beside him Skylight’s wings were already spread, her eyes eager and awaiting instruction. “What should I do?”

“Stay here with Cloud,” Shining responded after a moments thought. “Once he’s finished thinking meet us in the courtyard.” By now Cadence had moved to the balcony door, Shining taking a step to join her before stopping. “Moretur, I think it would be best if you wait here, Obsidian doesn’t need to know he’s had a pair of dragons from The Whispering Wings as his guest. Not yet.”

Feeling the urgency in his legs, Shining moved past Cadence and into the room beyond. His ears picked up the sound of Cadence’s voice from behind him, “Well, I’ll see you soon.” Moments later the sound of Cadence's hooves and Flo’s claws were following Shining.

At the end of the hallway Cadence and Flo had caught up, Flo setting the pace down the stairs with her first leap. She landed four stairs below, looking back up to make sure the pony pair were following.

“Flo,” Cadence called after her, taking the steps two at a time. “We’re in a rush but there’s no need to be dangerous.”

Twisting her head backward, Flo flashed a grin at Cadence. “Don’t worry about me princess. I won’t fall.” Still keeping her eyes one Cadence, Flo took her next leap, landing perfectly five steps below. “See.”

Nodding, Cadence continued her comparably slower progress, keeping her eyes more on Flo than the stairs underneath her hooves. Well, at least if she falls I’ll be ready to catch her. Another leap and Cadence felt her own hoof catch on an unseen step below, her whole body tipping forward snout first.

The sickening feeling in Cadence’s gut took notice of her mistake before she did. A falling sensation filled her body and mind, alongside an instinctual panic. Without a thought her wings spread from her sides, only a few pangs of pain remaining in them after days of rest.

One flap and Cadence righted herself, hooves firmly resting on the stairs once more. From her side she heard laughter.

“You really need to worry more about yourself,” Shining said, half-chuckling. His hoof lifted to help steady her. “Now why don’t we try catching Flo?”

The warm touch of embarrassment faded from Cadence’s cheeks as a smile filled her lips. “I’ll race you.” A twitch of her wings and bending legs followed her words, a leap lifting her into the air.

Watching Cadence soar ahead of him for a moment, Shining readied his legs as well, jumping down the stairs at a pace that matched Flo’s.

Despite his best efforts, Shining arrived in the throne room last, Cadence already moving towards Obsidian’s throne, Flo following her closely. The shaky voice of an elderly dragon was the only one to be heard as Shining stepped forward.

“-And that is why the gems in The Sapphire Tower need to be replaced. They-”

“Obsidian!” Cadence called the moment she was within his vision. “There’s something extremely important you need to know.”

The dragon she had cut off huffed, crossing his forelegs before him. “I don’t care if you are a princess. It is no excuse to be rude.”

Looking to the elderly dragon, Cadence smiled. “Well, I’m sorry for interrupting you, but,” She turned back to Obsidian. “An army is gathering in the mountains. We think they’re about to attack.” By now Shining and Flo stood on either side of her, nodding in agreement.

A collective gasp filled the room, Obsidian’s tired eyes wakened wide by Cadence’s words.

“An army princess? I have been hearing tales of this army all week but have still yet to see any proof.”

Taking a step forward, Cadence left Flo and Shining behind her. “Obsidian, I know there might have been false alarms in the past, but this is something you can’t ignore. They are gathering on the mountains outside the city and could attack at any moment.”

Seeing the pleading in Cadence’s eyes and the urgency in her voice, Obsidian’s features hardened. “How many are there? How close?” Looking to his side, he found Brazen standing, awaiting an order. “Brazen, ready the guards and ring the bell.” As the sandy-scaled dragon fled, Obsidian turned to the audience of dragons before him. “Are there any members of the militia in this room?”

At the end of the throne room a single claw lifted in response. Its owner stood a head taller than the rest of the crowd, but compared to a monster like Ember he was barely a hatchling.

“Go to the nearest tower and sound the alarm, I need every dragon awake and ready to defend this city.” Rising from his throne, Obsidian waved his claws over the still silent crowd before him. “Court is dismissed.”

Most left in silence, but the elderly dragon who had been speaking when Cadence entered stepped forward, frustration clear in his features. “Can we expect the next session to be held on the morrow? This issue with The Sapphire Tower needs-”

A low growl from deep within Obsidian’s throat silenced the now quivering dragon. “We will return to court once my subjects are safe, and only then. Now leave my presence.”

With shaky steps the elderly dragon fled from the room, forcing his way through the masses that jammed the doors.

His court almost clear, Obsidian turned back to Cadence. “Princess, will you join us in this battle? From the few times you have demonstrated your power it has been shown a great. Someone as powerful as you could be the tipping point in a battle.” To Obsidian’s disappointment, Cadence shook her head.

“I don’t want to fight, I want to stop this battle before it starts, but,” Cadence glanced at the now empty throne room and out into the garden beyond. “If worst comes to worst I will help you.” Her last words brought a smile to Obsidian’s lips.

“Hearing that brings joy to my heart princess. Now I must go and prepare myself to defend the city. I wish you safety.” Following the crowd of dragons. Obsidian exited the throne room, leaving Cadence, Shining and Flo behind.

Cadence took a few quick steps after Obsidian before stopping and looking back to Shining. “Well, we should get to the courtyard, someone is waiting for us.”

Question touched Shining’s features until realisation brushed it away. “Ember,” He breathed. “We need to get to him before Obsidian does.” He bounded forward, past Cadence and towards the door.

Eyes following Shining, Cadence’s hoof lifted to chase after him, but her mind stopped her. She turned back and found Flo still standing beside Obsidian’s throne. “Are you coming Flo?”

Flo glanced back at the door behind her before returning her eyes Cadence. “I don’t want to see you disappear princess.” A shiver passed through Flo’s body as she spoke.

Hearing Flo’s fears took the breath from Cadence’s lungs, her mouth hanging open for a moment, unsure of what to say. Eventually she managed to draw a breath and speak, “I’m not going to die Flo, but you don’t have to come. I’d rather you stay safe in our room.”

As Cadence made to turn away again, Flo’s voice stopped her.

“Why I am not safe out there? Why don’t you stay safe upstairs?”

The urge to leave filling her legs, Cadence twisted her head back to Flo, confusion in her own features. She’s right, I feel like she’s in danger outside, so why shouldn’t she think the same about me? “Well, even if I’m not going to be safe, I have to go Flo. Like Obsidian said, I could decide how this battle ends, but not how he thinks.”

Turning her body completely back to Flo, Cadence shortened the distance between them until they were standing snout to snout. “I promise I’ll come back,” The words left her lips as a whisper, Cadence planting a soft kiss on the end of Flo’s snout. “But I have to go now.”

Cadence swung her body in a half-circle before racing towards the door. I’ve got to catch up with Shining.

Passing Obsidian with a quick greeting, Cadence found Shining outside, standing beside Ember, the pair of them facing a dozen guards.

“Ember isn’t here to hurt anyone,” Shining protested, holding a hoof up in hopes that the draconic guards wouldn’t move closer.

“He’s telling the truth.” The sound of Cadence’s voice relaxed the tension in Shining’s shoulders and drew the eyes of the guards. “I asked Ember to get you ready while I told Obsidian what was happening.”

“Princess?” One of the guards questioned with slow words. “What is so important that you couldn’t wait to tell us?” As he spoke the sound of claws on cobbles came from behind him.

Brazen shook his head as he approached. “I was wondering what had given the guards such a stir.” He stopped beside Cadence, making sure the eyes of each guard was upon him before continuing. “There is an army building in the mountains. Inform any guards who might not know and head for the north-”

A bell sung its long and loud song, overwhelming Brazen’s words.

Glaring up at the tower set against the night sky, Brazen shook his head till it stopped. “As I was saying, once everyone is prepared, head for the north wall, and be quick about it.”

“What about Ember?” The guards closest to Brazen asked, lifting a claw to point at the beast who towered over them.

Brazen’s body jolted when his eyes found Ember’s form above him, blotting out the moon. “I had forgotten you were there-”

“Ember?” Obsidian’s voice cut off Brazen’s, his question holding a hint of worry. “What has brought you back to the palace at such at time?”

Turning his head to the side, Ember met Obsidian’s eyes and froze, his body unmoving but for the movement of his breaths.

Taking cautious steps towards Ember, Obsidian continued speaking. “I haven’t seen you this close in many years, Ember, son.”

A shiver shook at Ember’s legs and ran up his back. “Son,” He whispered, eyes falling away from Obsidian’s and towards the ground. “I don’t feel like I deserve that title.”

Before Obsidian could speak, Cadence lifted a hoof. “I know both of you have a lot you want to say, but every dragon in Rockholm could be in danger.”

Lowering his eyes to Cadence, Obsidian looked at her with a questioning gaze. “Did you not say to stop putting the safety of this city before my family?”

“Well, I did,” A smile crossed Cadence’s lips at Obsidian’s words. He’s chosen the wrong time to finally listen to what I say. “But what I meant was stop using the safety of your subjects as an excuse, not to ignore them when they need you most. Now go.” She shooed Obsidian away with a hoof. “You two can talk after the battle.”

Still holding Cadence’s eyes, Obsidian lowered his neck further, his voice barely more than a whisper. “Princess, there might not be an after to this battle.”

The smile on Cadence’s lips shrunk slightly, before blooming back wider than before. “You’ll make it back after this, I’ll make sure we all do.”

“This will be your first battle Disia.” Standing beside the smaller dragon on the mountain top, Millennium gazed over the plains to the wall of obsidian beyond. “Will you join me on the front lines?”

Looking up to Millennium, Disia shook his head, limbs tensing slightly. Does he know about my plan? Does he want to take me down with him. Disia shook his head, resisting the urge in his legs to flee. There’s no way he could find out, He reminded himself before speaking.

“No, I’m not much of a fighter sir, but I will be encouraging you from the back.”

The shake of Millennium’s head and the sigh leaving his lips showed his disapproval. “You’ve often told me how you want to follow your father and rule over Ember, but how can you do that if you don’t put the life of those under you before yours?”

Disia breathed deeply, holding back another urge, the want to spit insults at Millennium tingling on his lips. How can this foolish dragon even think to give me advice? Another deep breath and the urge faded to the back of his mind.

“Disia, is something on your mind?” Millennium questioned.

Realising he had been standing silent for some time, Disia nodded calmly while his mind raced for an answer. “Yes, I am worried about this battle, it could be dangerous. Many in the frontlines will fall.”

Annoyance flashed through Millennium’s eyes before being replaced with sorrow. “I hate to think of it, but you are correct Disia.” Moving his eyes from Disia to the plains before him, Millennium allowed a heavy breath to leave his lungs. “I have seen many dragons fall at my sides, and I will see many more. If only I could save them.”

Disia could barely contain the smile wanting to spread across his lips. Sometimes I forget how stupid you really are Millennium, but you never forget to remind me. Instead of allowing his true thoughts out, he adopted a sorrowful tone. “If only you could, but it’s impossible.”

“Mmmm,” Nodding at Disia’s words, Millennium’s eyes were deep in thought, remembering the battles of his past on the landscape before him.

Quiet joined the two for some time, the sound of claws against stone and the distant barks of a few commanders filled the air.

Eventually a call came from behind the two, drawing their eyes to the source. “Millennium, all of the centuries are ready and awaiting your command.” The words came from an orange-scaled dragon a few steps from the pair and approaching.

“Belle,” Millennium called back, meeting her halfway. A smile spread across his lips, but quickly faded as he recalled what she had told him earlier. “Have you come to warn me again?”

Glancing over Millennium’s shoulder, Belle found Disia approaching as well and lifted a talon to silence Millennium’s lips. “No, just to make sure you’re ready for battle.”

The smile on Millennium's lips spread into a grin. “Even in my sleep I am battle ready.” He placed a claw on Belle’s shoulder, nudging her away gently. “Now go join your century, we will march in a moment.”

Returning Millennium’s smile, Belle hurried back towards the mountains where her century waited. Millennium’s eyes followed her.

She seems certain something will happen, Millennium knew. That someone will betray me. Turning to face Rockholm once more, he found Disia standing between him and the city, facing away from him. Flashes of battle played out in Millennium’s mind, his own dragons turning against him, tearing into his scales with teeth and claws.

Sickness brewing in his stomach, Millennium shook the images away. Even thinking of it is terrible, knowing those you only wanted to protect hated you. That is not how I want to die. He lifted his voice, “How do you want to die Disia?”

The smaller dragon leapt so high into the air his head was level with Millennium’s, a yelp leaving his lips. Still shaking, Disia turned to face Millennium. Seeing the warmth in his commander’s eyes, Disia breathed relief. He doesn’t know, how could he know?

“You’re acting strange tonight Disia, is something wrong?”

“No,” Disia shook his head. “I nervous about this battle, that’s all.” Control yourself Disia. “I don’t want to die either. A long life is my dream.”

“The more I talk to you, the more I find out how different we are.” Millennium released his breath slowly, a battle lighting his mind once more. “To die at the end of a long boring life is not what I want. Battle is where I wish to fall, protecting those who put their trust in me.”

The barest hint of a smile twitched at the corners of Disia’s lips. Be careful what you wish for.

“I’m almost excited.” The words came from Cloud with a shiver, standing atop the outer wall of Rockholm. On one side of him stood Skylight, her wings open and eyes fixed on the distant mass of dragons. Cadence and Shining stood on the other, a pink wing stretched over the unicorn’s back.

Hearing Cloud’s words, Cadence shook her head. “How can you be? If something doesn't happen to stop it this battle will leave so many dragons dead.” She scrunched her eyes up at the thought, an image of the scenery before her painted with blood and bodies flashing through her mind.

“It’s Cloud’s first battle,” Skylight explained, her wings twitching with excitement. “Mine too. Every soldier wants to prove themselves in their first fight.”

Cloud nodded in agreement, a smile spreading across his lips as he imagined the glorious battle unfolding before them. “I’ve been dreaming about moments like this since I was a colt. The great hero who turns the tide of a war with his skills alone.”

Reaching downward with his wing, Cloud picked up the heavy spear that lay at his hooves and leaned its shaft against his shoulder. He and Skylight had been given the weapons by the captain of Obsidian’s guard, strong enough to pierce dragon scale he had said.

Looking up at the weapon like one she had refused, Cadence shook her head once more. “Well, I hope this battle stops before you have a chance to use that.”

“Don’t be so hard on him Cadence.” Shining’s voice came from beside her, drawing her eyes back towards him. A smile filled his lips, eyes staring out over the soon to be battleground. “Most colts dream about being a great soldier one day, it’s part of who we are.”

Skylight shot Shining a sharp look, clearing her throat to draw his attention.

Glancing to Skylight, Shining chuckled before nodding. “And some mares have the same dreams as well.”

Soft laughter from all four filled the air at Shining’s correction, the worry on Cadence’s lips pushed back by a smile. When the laughter faded Shining continued.

“That doesn’t mean I think of this as a way to show what a great warrior I am though. I can feel the nerves in my stomach, I’m almost scared.”

Hearing Shining’s confession, Cadence lay her head on his shoulder, rubbing her coat against his. “Well, hopefully none of us have to fight.” Drawing her head upright, she kissed at his cheek. “Maybe if we can talk to their leader we can convince them to stop the attack, maybe make peace.”

A sigh left Cloud’s lips as Cadence’s plan filled his ears. “I know that would be best for everyone here, but I really was hoping for a battle.” His eyes lifted to the sky, and found one of the moon’s children joining its mother in the sky. “I do wonder when they’re going to approach, the stars are already coming out.”

“The first star,” Millennium called back at the dragons under his command, each one organized in neat lines. “Ready your wings, teeth and claws, the battle is almost upon us.”

Turning to face the plains once more, Millennium spread his own monstrous pair of wings and leapt from the ground, the sails of leather carrying him high. The sound of hundreds of wings filled the air behind him.

Atop the distant wall Millennium could see the shadows of wings spreading in response to his approach, a swarm of black lifting off to meet him. He could feel the urge to fight surging through his body, the metallic handle of the long axe in one claw feeling hot.

In his mind half a hundred victories flashed by, many of them almost a century old. This will be my first battle in a few decades, a pity it will be over so easily. With a mad king at their lead this army will not be able to face mine.

Millennium was a third of the way across the plain by now, close enough to hear the wings of the oncoming dragons mixed with those of his own army. Swinging the axe in his claw back and forth, he tested its familiar weight.

Delila, He thought to himself, the name of his weapon bringing memories as sweet as honey to mind. I have not danced with you in some time, let this fight be spectacular. In the air behind him he could hear the hiss of countless other weapons as well, every dragon readying for the first clash.

With numbers as little as these this first strike will make all the difference, if I can fill their front lines with fear the rest will flee as well.

Moments from the enemy line now, Millennium flicked his eyes across their approach, searching for any holes, weaknesses that could be exploited. Seeing one to the far side, he lifted his free claw to direct a few of the centuries towards it, knowing his dragons would burst through the opening and break the enemy line. Too simple.

Millennium lifted his axe to the side, ready to swing deep into the enemy in the next moment.

“Stop!”

The voice rang over the almost battlefield, so loud it seemed to Millennium that it penetrated his head directly into his mind. It stopped both forces midair, all eyes searching for its source. Lifting his own eyes, Millennium found a speck of blue light soaring high above both forces.

“Who is leading you?”

Closer this time, Millennium instinctively winced at the pain the voice filled his head with, his mind taking a moment to realise the meaning of its words. They are asking for me. Shifting his wings, he propelled himself towards the blue speck to light, the sound of a dozen other wings joining his.

Glancing towards the sound, Millennium found the wings belonged to some of his century commanders, although it was those missing he noticed more. Where is Belle? Curid? The dragons who he thought would be the first to join him were absent.

I do not have time to think about that now, Millennium knew, looking away from the commanders who joined him and back to the growing blue light above. As he neared the light he noticed the wings attached to it. What kind of dragon can make fire like that?

Closer and closer still, Millennium realised the outlines of wings he saw were not the jagged edges of dragons, but much softer, more like the feathers of a bird. Griffons? No, we would know if they had come to this city. It must be a pegasus.

What filled Millennium’s vision as he came level with the light drew the breath from his lungs and widened his eyes. “Are you the princess?” He managed to whisper. Then the information that messenger gave was false.

At Cadence’s nod, Millennium continued.“I thought you had been slain by the mad king Obsidian?”

Cadence couldn’t help but smile at Millennium’s words, the form underneath her shaking with a chuckle. “I doubt he could.”

Looking towards the new voice, Millennium’s eyes widened even further. “Why are you riding another pony princess, you have wings of your own.” He pointed to the appendages of mention with a claw.

“Well, it’s a long story,” Cadence said, her voice friendly. “But right now that doesn’t matter. You need to stop this battle, if you fight many, many dragons will be killed. Can’t we find some terms of peace?”

The shock of seeing Cadence before him wearing away, Millenium remembered the situation below. “I only organized my army for attack because I had word that Obsidian had killed you during his madness. I feared for the safety of the dragons in the city.”

Cadence let her breath out as a long sigh, thinking over Millennium’s words. “Why do you think Obsidian would kill me? He might have different views on how to rule a kingdom than I do, but he would never lay a claw on me.”

The expression of Millennium’s features faltered, his eyes losing focus and staring off into the distance behind Cadence. Disia has told me all this time that Obsidian was a crazed king who kills at the slightest misstep. Was he lying? He shook the thought away before answering.

“All the stories I have heard tell of Obsidian as some mad king who kills his subjects without thought, and his crazed son Ember was the same. Then I heard you had come to the city and tamed Ember, or enslaved him, but,” The more Millennium spoke, the less sure he was of his own words.

None of these stories make any sense, He realised, slowing his words and meeting Cadence’s eyes once more. “Then I heard you were dead and Obsidian was rampaging, I could think of nothing else but the safety of the city.”

Cadence smiled at the dragon, “Well, you seem confused. Why don’t we call off this battle and I will explain everything to you?”

“I would appreciate that pri-”

A sickening sound filled the air, one that brought young memories back to the forefront of Cadence’s mind. The smiling face of Silvia falling forward as Moretur’s claw withdrew from her neck. No, not again.

Before her, Millennium’s features filled with shock for a moment, his lips moving but no words coming from them, and then he fell. The shadows of dragons that hovered behind where Millennium once had darted forward, claws painted with blood outstretched.

If Cadence’s stay in Rockholm had taught her anything, it was clear thought in times of near death. The burst of power as bright as the sleeping sun that erupted from her horn in the instant before the approaching claws connected demonstrated this.

Caught in the wave of blue energy, the dozen century commanders were blown back like leaves in a gust of wind.

Ignoring the now distant dragons, Cadence lowered her muzzle to Skylight’s ear. “Go down, we need to catch him.”

With a nod Skylight tilted her wings and sent them into a gut wrenching drop, Cadence barely able to keep hold with the surrounding air trying to tear her off. After a moment or two she adjusted to their downward speed, streamlining her body against Skylight’s and readying her horn to grasp the body falling below them.

As they sped by Cadence snatched Millennium out of the air with her magic, dragging him along with them.

Seeing Cadence had Millennium held tight, Skylight turned back for the wall, slowing her pace and glancing backward. She found the now recovered century commanders fleeing towards their soldiers, filling the air with shouts she could not discern, she knew their meaning however.

“They’re attacking.”

The only reply Cadence gave was a slight nod, her entire mind focused only holding the dragon many hundred times larger than her securely.

Skylight soared over the army of Rockholm and towards the two white stallions waiting for them on the wall. Her hooves clopped against the stone as she landed before a much heavier sound followed.

A sharp breath left Cadence’s lips once the burden of Millennium’s body was held by the wall, her chest heaving as she climbed off Skylight. Shining’s forelegs were ready to catch her weak form, barely able to stay standing.

“Who is he?”

Cadence heard Cloud’s voice question, and Skylight answer.

“He’s the captain of their army, or was.”

Having recovered enough, Cadence lifted her head and eyelids to find the pegasus pair staring at her. Leaning a leg on Shining’s back, she stood as upright as she could.

“Why did you bring him back,” Cloud asked, glancing at the still body beside them before looking back to Cadence.

Drawing a heavy breath, Cadence turned sideways, Shining moving with her. The pair took a step towards the motionless form of Millennium. “Well, I thought I could save him with my magic, he could stop this battle.”

A scream rang from the aerial battle outside the walls of Rockholm, drawing all four ponies eyes towards the blaze of flames and clash of claws.

Turning away from the scene, Cloud took a step towards Millennium’s body, placing his wingtip on the neck as thick as a tree trunk. “He’s not stopping battles anytime soon, or even breathing. This dragon is gone Cadence.”

“No,” Hearing Cloud’s words, Cadence looked back to the lifeless form of Millennium. She broke from Shining’s grasp and lifted a hoof to step forward, only to have her weak legs collapse under her weight.

Catching Cadence before she fell, Shining brought her head into his neck, lips kissing at her ears as he whispered. “You’re too tired to do something like that right now. Just rest Cadence.”

Unable to fight his grasp any longer, Cadence leant her full weight into Shining, toppling both of them to the stone below. “I wanted to save him, I wanted to bring him back,” She said, lying atop Shining.

One of his hooves trapped underneath his body, Shining lifted his free hoof to stroke Cadence’s mane, soothing her with the slow movements. “Cadence, there’s some things that I don’t think Celestia could even do. Bringing someone back to life is one of them.”

Having stepped back from Millennium, Cloud stood beside Skylight once more, his head nodding. “Remember how tired you were after fixing my wing, you collapsed right away. I think bringing someone back to life would drain more than just your energy.”

Whoosh! The air above them momentarily filled with the crackling of fire as a ball of flame soared overhead. It landed below the wall in a burst of orange and yellow.

Shifting his eyes back to the battle, Cloud opening his wings. “We should get back our room at the palace. With Cadence how she is it will be much safer for her there.”

Nodding in agreement, Skylight opened her own wings before stepping towards Cadence and Shining. “Help her onto my back.”

Shining hesitated for a moment before nodding as well. He allowed Cadence to lean on him as she rose to her hooves, steadied her while she climbed onto Skylight’s back. “Go slowly,” He said before turning and mounting Cloud himself.

The sounds of battle faded as the pair of pegasi soared easily over the city and towards their balcony. Roaring fire and flashes of light filled the air as they neared the wall, only to collide with the obsidian, none coming as close as the first.

Feeling the body atop her slipping, Skylight was forced to grip Cadence’s hooves with her own to stop the weary alicorn from losing her grip.

As they neared the balcony the blue scaled form of Moretur moved out to join Flo beside the railing. Flo shot the snake-dragon a suspicious glance before looking back up to the approaching ponies with a wide grin.

When Skylight’s hooves collided with the stone of the balcony, Flo rushed to her side, ambushing Cadence as she climbed from the pegasus.

“Princess. You got back safely. I knew you’d get back safely. Did you beat up some back dragons? Did you win?”

Placing all four hooves beneath her, Cadence tipped sideways, forced to lean on Skylight to keep herself standing. A weak smile on her lips met Flo’s now worried features.

“What happened princess? Did one of the bad dragons hurt you? I knew you shouldn’t have gone.”

A weak chuckle shook Cadence’s chest at Flo’s conflicting words, her shaky hoof lifting to touch Flo’s head. “I’m fine Flo. All I did was use too much of my magic. Once I rest I’ll be fine.”

By now Shining had dismounted from Cloud and was moving across the balcony. When he arrived at Cadence’s side he lifted her hoof onto his back, allowing all her weight to lean onto him. “Cadence really needs to rest right now, you can talk with her in the morning.

Too weak to protest, Cadence nodded at Shining’s words before following his movements inside.

Still standing out on the balcony, Cloud and Skylight watched the other pony pair move inside, Shining forming an ethereal mattress before lowering Cadence towards it.

“Do you want to go back to the battle?” Cloud suggested as they turned away from the tiring scene and back towards the flash of lights in the distance.

Glancing towards the sky of flames in the distance, Skylight thought for a moment before shaking her head. “Next time, when there’s less fire.”

Cloud nodded in agreement. “We can still watch it from here.” Taking a step towards Skylight, he spread his still open wing over her back, the pair sitting behind the railing. Above the distant plain he could spy the swarms of dragons clashing with each other, some falling while others turned for another pass.

“It looks like Obsidian’s army is winning,” Cloud said after watching for a few moments. “I was sure they were outnumbered when we left.”

Before Skylight could reply, Moretur’s voice filled the air. “Can you describe the battle to me? I can hear their cries but from this far away it is difficult to discern one from the other. All I can smell is blood and sweat.”

Surprise filled Cloud’s features for a moment as he realised Moretur still stood behind them. “There are two massive armies of dragons,” Cloud said once he recovered, meeting the irritation in Skylight’s features with a soft smile. “One side is split into many colors by their armor while Obsidian’s dragons are all in black.”

“Colors,” A chuckle chased the word from Moretur’s lips. “I don’t think I will ever understand them.”

Ignoring the interruption, Skylight looked back to the battle, her eyes picking out the finer details Cloud’s had missed. “Some fighting for Obsidian aren’t black.”

Turning his gaze back to the distant fighting, Cloud nodded. “You’re right, it looks like some of the dragons in colored armor are fighting each other.” His eyes widened as he stood, wings spreading. “I need to get a closer look at this.”

Cloud tore his eyes away from the battle to find Skylight standing behind him, a grin on her lips. “I’ll race you.”

It only felt like moments to Cloud before his hooves were upon the outer wall of Rockholm once more. His chest puffed in and out with breath, Skylight in a similar state beside him.

“It’s unfair with those wings you have,” She breathed through a grin, eyes following the movements of Cloud’s white feathers as he folded them away.

Mind shifting from their race to the battle still raging before them, Cloud nodded, his eyes reflecting the bursts of flame they saw. After a moment or two of watching, a whisper left his lips, barely audible to Skylight above the din of claws and fire. “They’ve changed sides.”

Following Cloud’s eyes, Skylight saw that many of the dragons who were fighting had similarly shaped armor, only a difference in color telling one from the other. “You’re right, but why?”

Looking away from the battle, Cloud moved his gaze to the monstrous body that still lay on the wall. “Cadence said he was their leader right?” At Skylight’s nod he continued. “For his own soldiers to kill him there must have been some fed up in his army, but I doubt all of them were.”

He and Skylight turned back to the battle, silent for a moment or two, both already reaching the same conclusion.

“They’re not fighting for Obsidian-” Skylight started, a deafening inferno of green flame in the distance silencing her. A wince filled her lips as she watched dragons fall from the sky, knocked down by the blast.

“They’re fighting for him,” Cloud finished, once he could hear himself speak again. Even with dragons impaling each other with claws and teeth, he could not look away, eyes captured by the horror before him.

Both captivated with the battle, they edged towards each other, step by step, until Cloud’s wing rested over Skylight’s back. He took his eyes off the action for a moment to meet her eyes. “Do you want to sit and watch?”

Skylight nodded as the two lowered themselves to the stone below, her head cuddling against his neck for comfort. “If you watch with me.”

“Just wait for her to wake.”

The voice leaked into the depths of Cadence’s mind, reaching the darkness her consciousness lay within.

“But I waited all morning.”

Another voice answered the first, like a spark in the shadows, it flashed with light for a moment in Cadence’s mind. Who is it? She thought before wincing at the throb that came from her head.

“Princess, you’re awake.”

Cadence felt scales and claws brush against her coat as Flo grasped at her shoulder and tugged.

“Come on princess. Everyone’s waiting for you.”

A sharp gasp filled Cadence’s lips as the slight movement of her head brought on a wave of pain. Even opening her eyes was uncomfortable, the light seeping in like needles piercing her mind, so she allowed them to close.

“See,” With a ring of magic and the sound of Shining’s voice, Cadence felt the claw lifted from her shoulder. “They’ll have to wait, she needs to rest longer.”

Who’s waiting for me? Cadence’s mind raced, pictures from the previous night coming back to her. The dragon captain she had talked to, his face as he fell from the sky, the strain on her mind as she magically carried him back to the wall, then nothing else. That explains the pain in my head.

“Cadence,” Shining’s voice was closer now, a soft feather falling on her ears. “I know you don’t want to keep anyone waiting, but you need to stay still. It seems like you haven’t yet recovered from last night.” The soft strokes of his hoof down her side brought a weak smile to her lips.

Opening her mouth, Cadence found her tongue dry as dust. “Water, please,” She managed to say, her thirst overwhelming the pain it took to push each croaky word from her lips.

“Oh, right.” The ring of magic joined Shining as he spoke, cold stone soon touching against Cadence’s lips.

She shifted her head and cracked her eyelids open just enough to see the obsidian bowl before her and drink from it as Shining poured. “Thank you,” She said after he pulled the bowl away, the water wetting her mouth and quenching some of the thirst that stung at the back of her throat.

Laying her head back down to rest, Cadence continued to speak. “Who’s waiting?”

Rolling his eyes into his head, Shining thought back to all the faces he had seen gathered in the city centre, many, many dragons making up a murky rainbow. “Everyone.”

“Well, why?”

A heavy breath left Shining’s lips. “You remember the dragon leader you spoke with last night, how you carried him back to the wall once he had been killed?”

Cadence nodded slightly, the aching of her head a clear reminder of her struggle.

“They’re having a ceremony in the middle of the city for him. Obsidian is insisting they wait for you.”

“Why wait for me?” Cadence winced as the movements of her jaw sent a spark of pain racing through her head. “I didn’t do anything to help.”

“You saved the whole city princess.”

Looking to the dragon who sat beside him, Shining smiled at her enthusiasm before turning back to Cadence. “Flo’s right, if you hadn’t have calmed Ember down he would never have seen the army approaching.”

“But, one of the guards on the wall would have seen them.” Words came from Cadence’s lips softly and slowly, her head back and forth a little. “If I had been awake to help Obsidian less dragons would have died.”

Shining’s hoof ran down Cadence’s neck and along her back, comforting the stress held there. “Don’t think like that, if you didn’t talk with that dragon and almost convince him to stop, those wanting to betray him wouldn’t have been forced to reveal their plans so soon. He might have led his army to victory against Obsidian. Think of every dragon you saved in Rockholm.”

Opening her lips to protest, Cadence found she could only produce a sigh, her tongue too weak to form words.

“See, you’re too tired to argue.” Shining lowered his lips to Cadence’s cheek and laid a gentle kiss there. “Now get some sleep.”

Cadence nodded slightly, allowing her worries to flee from the weight of sleep that filled her mind and body, allowing the warm darkness to overcome her once more.

When she next woke Cadence’s eyelids opened immediately, a gasp of breath filling her lungs. She lifted her head and found the pain was gone, her body feeling almost weightless compared to the last time she had woken.

Scanning the room, Cadence realised she was alone. The light that filtered in from the balcony a lazy golden.

It’s almost sunset, She knew. I hope I haven’t kept them waiting all day.

Cadence sprang to her hooves before racing towards the balcony door. The centre of Rockholm was not visible from her room with many tall tower blocking her vision, but she could still see dragons flying towards it like bugs to light.

I have to get there as soon as I can, I don’t want them to wait any longer. A slight panic filling her limbs, Cadence felt her wings open at her sides by instinct, their aching now gone. She tested them with a soft beat, feeling their lift.

Satisfied with their strength, Cadence bent her legs, readying her body for the burst of lifting off. A sickly nervousness tainted her stomach as she looked up at the golden sky, the sensation of something missing causing her to pause. It’s strange not having Skylight with me.

“Cadence!”

“Princess!”

The pair of voices drew Cadence’s eyes back towards the balcony door, her tense limbs almost losing balance as her body turned as well. A flutter of her wings kept her upright, completing her turn.

Her eyes found Flo racing towards her, Shining some distance behind, Moretur at his side. Cadence managed to sneak a smile to Shining before Flo tackled her with a hug, pinning her to the ground like an excited puppy.

“You’re awake princess. Did you miss me when you woke up? He forced me to leave you alone.” Flicking a claw back at Shining, Flo pouted. “I knew you’d wake when I left.”

Giggling a Flo’s energy, Cadence pried the dragon off of her body and rose to her hooves. “Well you’re here now, there’s no need to worry.” She patted Flo’s head with her hoof, holding the blue eyes with her own pair.

By now Shining had reached the balcony, his lips greeting Cadence’s cheek with a kiss. “I see you’re feeling better.”

Turning away from Flo, Cadence returned the greeting, nuzzling at Shining’s neck. “I feel much better, but,” She glanced back over her shoulder before returning her eyes to Shining. “They’re still waiting for me at the ceremony, we should hurry.”

Shining lifted a hoof to Cadence’s shoulder, kneading gently to calm her. “Don’t worry about that either, I told Obsidian you still needed to rest so he’s organized a feast for all the soldiers to pass the time.”

Satisfied with Shining’s explanation, Cadence allowed her breath out as a sigh before inhaling deeply. The sweet scent of berries and chocolate filled her snout, reminding her stomach how empty it was. “Is that raspberry and chocolate I can smell?”

Nodding, Shining brought the pie from behind him forth, holding it before Cadence’s eyes. “We went to the feast without you, sorry. I brought this back for you though.”

Taking the pie in her own magic, Cadence met Shining’s eyes with an amused look. “You didn’t overeat did you?”

“He ate so much,” Flo answered from her side. “There were pies bigger than my head.” She held up her claws to show the size. “He had two.”

With a guilty smile on his lips, Shining glanced back into the room. “Why don’t you come inside and have something to eat, then we can catch the end of the feast.” Gesturing for her to follow with his head, he stepped into the room.

“Well, I could just wait till we get to the feast before eating.” As the words left Cadence’s lips her stomach roared, a stab of pain reminding her of its hunger.

Chuckling at the sound, Shining glanced back at Cadence with the shake of his head. “You haven’t eaten all day Cadence. You should eat something now.”

At Shining’s words Cadence lowered her eyes to the pie she held, its perfectly browned pastry bringing another grumble from her stomach. “Well,” She said with a smile. “If you’re forcing me to.”

Following Shining inside, Cadence noticed Moretur standing at the door, half-facing away from the entrance, his head turned completely away. She moved to the ethereal mattress she had slept upon, stealing glances back at the still unmoving Moretur.

“Are you going to join us Moretur?” Cadence asked as she sat, her voice containing a hint of worry.

Moretur’s head tilted slightly towards Cadence’s words, the tip of his snout visible to her. “I don’t think so.”

Looking more closely at Moretur’s barely visible features, Cadence noticed a gouge of red below one nostril. “What happened to your snout? Did something hurt you last night?”

Realising his secret was uncovered, Moretur turned completely towards Cadence, fully revealing the crimson gash that ran from his snout down the length of his neck. Another formed a crescent along his side, its edges blackened. “I had I fight I wish to forget.”

“Oh, no. Come here, I’ll heal those wounds for you.” Cadence tapped her hoof on the stone beside her before turning to Shining. “Why didn’t you tell me Moretur had been hurt?”

Instead of Shining’s voice filling the air, Moretur answered her. “I asked him not to, I didn’t want to trouble you any further while you were resting.” He lowered himself beside Cadence, gasping and wrinkling his features as the movement tore at his injuries.

Cadence lit her horn, lifting the flap of the saddlebags beside her and pulling the stack of papers from within. “Well,” She smiled to herself. “The spell I was looking for is still here.” Taking the top page from the stack, Cadence held it before her, reciting the words a few times silently before placing it beside her.

With closed eyes she encased Moretur’s neck in blue, speaking as she did so. “Tell me what happened.” Her voice was soft, barely a whisper above the hum of magic.

“Are you sure you should heal him now?” Shining cut in before Moretur could respond, placing a hoof on Cadence’s shoulder. “You remember what happened last time you healed something this large, you collapsed the moment you were done. You might not make it to the ceremony.”

“Shining,” Opening her eyelids and silencing her magic, Cadence turned to meet his eyes with a sorry look. “Moretur needs me more than the ceremony does. If I collapse they’ll have to have it without me.”

“Right,” Realising what he had proposed, Shining felt a pang of guilt in his stomach. “I was just being selfish, you’re right.”

With a smile, Cadence nodded back at him before closing her eyes once more, the blue of her magic flowing down Moretur’s neck like water. It spilled from his shoulders along the torn blue scales of his chest, before spreading to catch the smaller cuts and scratches with its grasp.

A drop of water sprung forth from Cadence’s horn in time with a deep breath from her lips. It grew in size with each calm movement of her chest until it was as large as her head. Its first stage complete, the orb of light moved towards Moretur’s chest, spreading itself over the charred flesh there.

Cadence’s breaths increased in noise and pace as the sparks of her magic worked away, a wrinkle of strain appearing on her brow. Once her magic had completely sunk into Moretur’s scales, Cadence’s breathing settled a little, her features calm once more.

Another deep breath filled Cadence’s lungs, this time coinciding with a thread of magic escaping the tip of her horn. This time it moved towards the tip of Moretur’s snout, leaping back and forth between each edge of the tear, leaving brand new scales behind.

Seeing Cadence’s breathing shake and body shiver as she poured out her magic into Moretur’s wounds, Shining lowered a gentle foreleg over her withers, stroking slowly at her side with his hoof. The movement seemed to steady Cadence, yet the pace of her breathing still increased, her chest soon heaving.

Watching the laboured movements of his loved one, Shining couldn’t keep back the annoyance wanting to seep into his mind. Why did Moretur have to get injured now? It looks like she’s going to lose consciousness again.

The moment Shining realised his thoughts, he gritted his teeth, pushing them back. No, I’m just being selfish again. Moretur saved our lives last night, it’s the least I can do thank him. Forcing a smile to his lips, he met Cadence’s closed eyes and continued to comfort her with the stroking of his hoof.

By now Cadence’s magic had travelled down most of the tear in Moretur’s chest, her teeth clamping tight around a pink lip and brow filled with as many creases as waves on a beach.

You can do it, Shining thought, silently encouraging her, not wanting to take her concentration away from the task for even a second. His eyes followed the glowing blue thread as it finished its journey down Moretur’s chest, then darted back and forth across his body, tidying up the smaller cuts.

After what seemed like an eternity for Shining, Cadence finally released one heavy breath. The light of her horn faded away, and the glow of her magic disappeared from Moretur’s chest, yet her eyes did not open.

“I will never be able to repay you for what you have done princess,” Moretur whispered, breaking the eerie silence left by the ringing of Cadence’s horn.

Still watching Cadence, Shining’s heart fell as her head tilted towards him, resting on his shoulder. Her breaths were slow and steady, features free of any expression. She’s asleep, He thought. There’s no way she could still be awake after a healing that big.

“Has she gone to sleep?”

Shining heard Flo’s voice from over his shoulder, holding a mix of worry and sadness.

With a heavy breath, Shining nodded. Yes, I’ll have to wait another day to spend time with my princess.

“No Flo.”

The voice didn’t just fill Shining’s ears, but moved through his whole body, causing his heart to leap in his chest and the overwhelming warmth of joy to rush through his veins.

“My eyes are a little tired,” Cadence continued. “But I’m still awake.” Shifting her head against Shining, she lifted her muzzle towards his. “Could you hold the pie you brought me?”

Lighting his horn, Shining brought the chocolate and raspberry pie to Cadence’s lips, holding it steady as she bit into it.

Cadence moaned softly at the taste, a trickle of red juice running down her muzzle. Another bite, and another, soon the pie disappeared between her lips, pink eyelids fluttering open as she wiped crumbs and juice from her mouth.

Shifting her eyes towards Moretur, Cadence allowed a satisfied sigh to leave her lips before speaking. “Well, can you tell me what happened now?”

“I, it is, a shameful story.” Moretur’s nostrils flared as he drew in a deep breath, lips twisting with pain. “But if you wish to hear it I will tell you.” Taking Cadence’s silence as a cue, he continued.

“Late last night, or early this morning, after the battle was almost over, I was curled up in this room, trying to sleep, when a strange smell came to me.” Moretur fell silent for a few moments, his head shaking from side to side. “It was Vensol.”

He was here last night? Cadence thought, a small flame of worry igniting in her mind. Her lips opened to question, but she held her tongue. Whatever happened is over now, he can’t get me while I’m awake.

“I do not know how he did not pick up my scent, whether it be the bloodlust clouding his mind or that my scent has changed after being here. However his scent was clear to me, the sound of his wings closing and claws moving on this stone pushing my sleep aside.”

“At first I thought you were safe, that the strange magic you use would fend him off, but I realised I could no longer hear it. So I rose and moved to block his path, only to have one of his claws greet me.” Moretur ran a talon down the scales of his neck, tracing where the gash had been only a short time earlier.

“He, I, he struck at me while I defended, a violent and noisy battle. I begged him to stop with each breath while he cursed my name.” The pace of Moretur’s breathing increased, pain obvious in his features. “I knew if we continued to fight I would lose, there is no way I could strike a brother. It was luck your prince came to my rescue in time.”

The words of Moretur falling away to quiet, Shining realised his cue to speak. “The noise they made woke me up.” His eyes were distant, head shaking back and forth as he spoke. “I could barely see anything in the darkness, my only thought was to defend you Cadence, so I reached out with my magic to hold the nearest shadow.”

Looking to Moretur, Shining lifted his free hoof and touched the dragon on the shoulder. “I’m sorry for what I did, that wound down your chest was all my fault.”

“I hold no hard feelings.” In the tense atmosphere Moretur managed a small smile. “All my wounds have been healed thanks to your princess’s generosity, I am grateful to the both of you.”

“Thank you,” The smile on Moretur’s lips spread to Shining’s for a moment, before the memories of the previous night washed it away. “As I was saying, I was holding Moretur in my magic. His cry of pain made me realise who it was, and who the other dark form was. So I let go of him and picked up Vensol.”

“My brother was in a spitting rage,” Moretur picked up where Shining left off. “I could hear him thrashing in the air as I fell to the ground, my worry for him overcoming my pain. I tried talking to him, telling him everything I had realised after being with you these past few days, but he wouldn’t listen. He….”

Moretur’s voice trailed off, leaving the room in silence and both storytellers with their muzzles lowered to the ground.

“Well? What did he do?” Worry shook Cadence’s voice as she looked from Moretur to Shining and back, both of them not responding to her words. After a lengthy wait, she sighed. “If you don’t want to tell me, I won’t force you.”

“He made himself disappear.”

The sound of Flo’s shaky voice caught Cadence by surprise, the dragon having slipped from her mind.

Hearing Flo as well, Shining lifted his head and turned his eyes towards her. “You saw what happened as well?”

Flo nodded, memories dancing through her eyes. “I pretended to be asleep. I couldn’t stop watching though. That other bad dragon burned himself up.”

Swinging her head between Shining and Moretur once more, Cadence’s brow creased with question. “What does she mean?”

“There’s a special technique only The Whispering Wings know,” Moretur answered, his words so soft Cadence slowed her breathing to hear him. “A final resort, we can harness the power of our own inner fire to burn ourselves to ash. It is only supposed to be-” A sob cut Moretur off, the dragon swallowing noisily before he continued. “Used when there is no other option, when your life is already over.”

Cadence’s jaw dropped when realisation struck her, a pink hoof lifting to rest upon Moretur’s shoulder. “I, I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t be, it wasn’t your fault, more the fault of the twisted upbringing we both had.”

With her hoof Cadence kneaded comfort into Moretur’s scales, the four sitting in silence for a few moments. Cadence’s thoughts drifted as her foreleg moved in slow rotations, eyes unfocusing. Another one who’s lost someone they love, and once again I have nothing to say.

Underneath her hoof Cadence felt Moretur’s body shifting, the movement drawing her from her thoughts.

“Don’t let my sorrow spoil your mood princess,” He said, a small smile on his lips. “Go to your ceremony, I will be fine on my own.”

Moving her foreleg back to her side, Cadence stared hard at the scales where Moretur’s eyes might have been. “Well, are you sure?”

“I am. Your magic has healed more than physical wounds princess.”

The smile from Moretur’s lips spread to Cadence’s as she rose, looking to Flo. “Are you going to come?”

Springing upright, Flo pouted at Cadence as if the question were absurd. “Of course. I never miss a crazy show.”

“And those things will stay with me forever.”

With those words Belle stepped from the granite podium and moved back to her place at the front of the crowd. She was the last of the three speakers, Obsius, one of Millennium’s still loyal commanders, and Obsidian had been before her.

Cadence had been asked to speak as well, but refused with the excuse of tiredness, a disappointment for many in the crowd when they were told. Gazing over the sea of scales before her, she was glad she had.

Anything I would have said would have sounded foalish compared to their speeches, She thought, shifting her head to find comfort on Shining’s shoulder.

As Belle sat, Obsidian rose and moved to the podium for his second time since Cadence had arrived, his voice booming throughout the city centre. “Now the burnings will commence in the order organised this morning. Will the first group step forth.”

Cadence could feel the stone beneath her rumbling as half a hundred dragons rose from the first of the great stairs and moved forward, leaving Shining, Flo and her alone. Knowing what the ceremony would hold, she had chosen a seat some way back as to avoid being scorched.

The air crackled as the first body was consumed by yellow flames, Cadence’s eyes flickering with color as more and more joined the first.

“Isn’t it beautiful?” She whispered to Shining, eyes still pinned to the scene before her. “Much better than any pony funeral I’ve been to.”

“Mmm.” Shining nodded in agreement. “It almost makes you forget the sadness of the whole event, and rather remember the beauty each dragon possesses.”

The fires of the first group fading away, Cadence allowed her eyes to wander to the sky where many dragons hovered, their wings casting a shadow over the city centre. “I wonder if Skylight and Cloud can see this?”

Bored of waiting for the ceremony to start, the pegasus pair had taken to chasing each other through the sky, only to find themselves lacking a seat when the time came.

“If they look,” Flo answered, her words missing their usual pace and were instead thoughtful, as if she were picking each one. “The burnings of dragons can be seen from horizon to horizon. That’s what old crazy Delce always said.”

A smile tugged at the corners of Cadence’s lips as she lifted a foreleg over Flo’s back, pulling her closer. “Well, I’m glad all of us made it through this alive.” Her own words filled her lungs with a gasp, eyes widening and neck straightening. “Where is Ember?”

Tearing his eyes away from the flames of the second group, Shining met Cadence’s waiting eyes. “He’s uninjured outside the city. Still hiding from his father I guess. Skylight and Cloud said he fought well in the battle.”

Relief left Cadence’s chest as a breath, her body relaxing against Shining’s side once more. “That’s good to know.”

The groups of flame all seemed to blur into one for Cadence as she watched them with lazy eyes, the occasional bright pink or green flame startling her. Despite her best efforts to keep her eyelids lifted, she found them growing heavier and heavier, drooping down to bathe her world in darkness.

I’ll have a little rest, Cadence thought as the warmth of sleep washed over her mind.

Tormenting Words

“Well, this is goodbye then.” Cadence looked from Skylight to Cloud, the sad smiles on their lips matching hers and Shining’s. Behind the pegasus pair was the balcony she knew well, cracks still lining its grey stone. The noon sun hung out of sight, bathing the balcony and city beyond in its golden glow.

Beside her Shining nodded. “Will we ever see you again?”

Cloud and Skylight shared a look before turning back to the ponies in front of them, the smiles on their muzzles growing. “If you don’t come visit us, we’ll visit you,” Cloud said. “You live in Canterlot right?”

“We will.” Eyes unfocusing, Cadence thought back to the city she had came from, the white palace walls fuzzy in her mind. “But it’ll be a long time till we get back, Celestia’s planned a lot of travel for us.”

“Without these you’ll be walking forever.” The smile on Skylight’s lips twisted into a smirk as she opened one wing.

“Well,” Cadence turned her head to the side, meeting Shining’s eyes as he did the same. “We have plenty of time to walk.”

A light chuckle ran through the four, slowly fading into silence. Each pony looked from one to the other, unsure of what to say. Eventually Cloud broke the quiet as he stepped towards Shining and Cadence.

“I’ll miss you two, and I’ll never forget what you’ve done.” He spread his wings and wrapped the pair in a cocoon of feathers.

Skylight took a step towards Cloud, but stayed back from the group until he had retreated. “I couldn’t forget you two if I tried.” She reached out a hoof to farewell Cadence and Shining only to have her neck wrapped in a pair of pink forelegs.

“I’ll miss you too Skylight.”

A third leg looped around Skylight’s neck as Shining joined the embrace. “I will as well.”

Skylight endured the contact for as long as she could before easing the pair off of her with a wing. “Go,” She said with a nod. “Everyone’s waiting.” With the tip of her wing, she motioned towards the door behind Shining and Cadence.

With stiff movements, Cadence half-turned towards the back end of the room she had grown to love. Glancing back at Skylight and Cloud, she felt her smile fall away. “I wish we could stay.”

“No,” Cloud shook his head, shooing the pair before him away with a hoof. “You need to keep travelling. With what you’ve done for this city, I’m sure there as so many other places out there that need you as well.”

Taking Cloud’s words, Cadence nodded. “You’re right.” With a sigh she turned away, forcing herself to move towards the door, Shining at her side. Half in the hallway, half still inside their room, she looked back again, giving Cloud and Skylight one last wave before disappearing.

Stepping slowly down the hallway, Cadence rested her head against Shining’s neck. She tried to push Cloud and Skylight from her thoughts, hoping the tugging in her stomach would cease. Think about all that’s ahead, She told herself. The griffons and minotaurs, all the towns and cities filled with others you can befriend.

The thought only caused her to sigh again. “Is this what this journey will be?” She said, hoping Shining would tell her otherwise.

Meeting Cadence’s eyes, Shining’s brow was creased with confusion. “What do you mean?”

“Well, what’s happened over this past year. Meeting ponies, or dragons, or whoever, becoming friends with them, only to never see them again.”

Shining took a deep breath before turning to the stairs, mulling over Cadence’s words as they decsended. “Maybe it will be, but don’t think about never seeing them again. We had so many good times with Cloud and Skylight that they’ll always be with us in our memories.”

“But, we’ll never be able to do those things with them again.”

A few steps from the throne room door now, Shining stopped and turned to Cadence, the smile on his lips wide enough for both of them. “That’s why we find new friends to do new things with.”

Seeing the smile Shining wore, Cadence couldn’t control her own lips as they mirrored his. “I hope you’re right.”

“Trust me.” Turning back towards the door, Shining straightened himself up. “Now are you ready for this?”

Also straightening herself up, Cadence nodded. “It’s going to be hard to say goodbye to all these dragons as well.”

“Mmm.” Shining took a step forward before stopping and glancing at Cadence. “And be ready for Flo and Cali. Cloud said they were planning something big.”

“Oh, I hope it doesn’t turn out like their last surprise for me.” The smile on Cadence's lips spread even further as she thought back to the pair of young dragons’ birthday gift for her. They had decided to order her an enormous pie, large enough for both of them to fit inside.

Shining licked his lips, fondly remembering the belly ache he had suffered after forcing as much of the raspberry pie down his throat as he could. “I hope it is like their last one. I’m feeling a little hungry.”

Nudging Shining’s side with a hoof, Cadence let out a giggle. “Next time we’re cleaning it up a different way.”

Both ponies shared another round of laughter, Cadence’s eyes coming to rest on the door before her as her chest stilled. The sight of it reminding her where they stood and who was waiting. “Well, we should get out there. No need to keep them all waiting.”

Taking a step forward, Shining pressed his hoof to the stone of the door before them. A voice greeted them as it swung open, like the rumbling of an earthquake.

“Princess, prince.”

Cadence and Shining stepped forward as Obsidian spoke to find a small crowd gathered in the throne room.

“I was beginning to worry you were going to slip away without saying goodbye.” There was a hint of humour in Obsidian’s voice, a small smile on his lips.

“I told you she would never leave without a farewell.” Another voice came from Obsidian’s side, this one rivaling his deep rumbling.

Still moving forward, Cadence saw Ember standing beside Obsidian, a smile on his lips but sadness in his eyes.

“Sorry for keeping you waiting,” Cadence said, addressing the whole group before her. “We were finding it difficult to say goodbye.” Familiar faces greeted her eyes as she gazed around the room.

Belle stood on the other side of Ember, Obsius beside her and Curid beside him. The three century commanders had decided to stay in Rockholm after the loss of Millennium, each of them soon finding positions among Obsidian’s army that had been vacated by the battle.

To Cadence’s surprise it was Belle who spoke, her words widening the smile on Ember’s lips. “It’s fine princess, we know how hard it is for you to say goodbye, we’re saying goodbye as well.”

The words caused Cadence’s breath to catch in her throat, her eyes widening a little. I never thought of that. “Well, Im sorry we can’t stay. We need to keep moving if we’re going to complete our trip in time.”

“We understand,” Ember spoke this time. “A princess has duties she must attend to.”

He’s sounding more and more like his father, Cadence thought as she nodded.

“I’ll miss you princess,” Ember continued, waving a claw around the circle of dragons. “We all will.” The five nodded at his words, murmuring assent in their own ways. “You should be going now, the city wants to say goodbye as well.”

Still nodding, Cadence met each dragon’s eyes with a smile before moving down the courtroom towards the door. At the door a stumpy dragon they had grown to know well met them, a pair of saddlebags in each of his claws.

“Princess, Shining. I have stuffed as much as I could into your bags for you,” He said, holding the bags towards each pony.

“Oh, Adicus.” Cadence took the yellow pair of bags in her magic, shifting her wings to hang the bags at her sides. “I had almost forgotten we asked you to do that.”

Adicus smiled, his claws now free. “Understandable with all that I’m sure is on your mind. I hope to see you two again someday, no one here appreciates my pies quite like you Shining.”

A red warmth touched at Shining’s cheeks as he looked back up from adjusting his bags. “I’ll miss you as well Adicus, I don’t know if I’ll ever taste pies as good as yours again.”

Cadence felt a chuckle shaking her chest as the two shared an embrace, Adicus like a bear hugging the foal that was Shining. “Who knew a dragon and pony could come so close over pie.”

Both Adicus and Shining looked to Cadence with serious eyes, Shining speaking for both of them. “Food is something that everyone can enjoy together, no matter who or what you are.”

Unable to help herself, Cadence chuckled again, this time louder. “There’s parts of love I still don’t understand,” She said to herself, watching the two before her break apart.

Joining Cadence once more, Shining glanced back to Adicus as they moved away. “I’ll visit you again Adicus, and I hope you have new pies to surprise me with then.”

Lifting his claw, Adicus waved them off before turning and moving back towards his kitchen.

At the doors to the palace gardens now, Shining looked to Cadence. “We need to make these pies last, we don’t know when we’ll be able to get more like them.”

Expecting his words to be about their departure rather than food, Cadence allowed another chuckle to escape her lips. “Well, I doubt they’ll last very long with you around.”

A guilty smile crossed Shining’s lips, his eyes moving back to the doors before them. “Are you ready?”

Cadence took a deep breath, and then another, she could already hear the murmur of voices through the door, like the buzz of hive. “I think so, it sounds like the whole city is out there.”

“Yeah,” Shining lifted a hoof and placed it against the door. “This is going to be loud.”

With the power of both his magic and his body, Shining forced the door forward to an eruptions of cheering, the solid wave of sound causing the pair to stop in their tracks.

“This is a lot more than I expected,” Cadence whispered into Shining’s ear.

“Mmm.” With a nod Shining took the lead, moving forward with Cadence a step behind him.

On either side of them them guards rowed the stone path down to the palace gates, each of them nodding their heads as Cadence and Shining passed. A few of them Cadence recognized, Zorent and Seten, a pair who often caught Flo and Cali making mischief around the palace.

The smile on Cadence’s lips widened at the sight of the two guards, fond memories of them bringing Flo and Cali back to her room filling her thoughts. I hope they don’t cause Zorent and Seten too much trouble when I’m gone.

As they moved down the path the sound of cheering only grew, Cadence and Shining forced to stop completely. Outside the gates a horde of dragons filled the streets on either side, each yelling words of their own to contribute to the indiscernible din in the air.

Cadence raised a hoof with hope to quiet the noise, only to have the cheering grow louder. Sighing, she placed her lips at Shining’s ear. “Should we let them have their fun?”

Nodding, Shining lit his horn and plugged his ears with magic, Cadence doing the same.

The pair walked through the streets with wide grins on their muzzles, the noise around them dulled to a quiet hum by the magic in their ears.

Looking from side to side, Cadence found she could not take in the amount of faces presented on either side. So many of them foreign, her eyes picked out the few she had seen before, but her mind could not match names to them.

I don’t think I’ve even spoke to most of the dragons here, She thought, chest humming with the sound that surrounded her. Yet they’ve all come out to send me off. Moisture gathered in the corner of Cadence’s eye, threatening to run down her cheek.

Through her mind flashed the faces of all the dragons she was leaving behind, each one adding to the warmth building in her chest. The tear finally let go of her eye and ran down pink fur when her mind rested on Cloud and Skylight, the pair leaving so many memories in her mind.

The touch of a claw on Cadence’s shoulder drew her from her memories, the barest hint of a word leaking in through her deafened ears. “Princess.”

Glancing to her side, she found the blue eyes on Flo waiting for her and Cali’s golden pair beside Flo. With the ring of her horn she opened her ears, the previously overpowering cheering having now died away to a much more comfortable volume.

“What did you two do this time?” Cadence asked, her muzzle stretching with a smile once more.

Flo pouted at Cadence’s question, her claw still tugging at a pink shoulder. “We can’t tell you now. You have to come and see it.”

Looking up from Flo, Cadence saw that the movement in the crowd had slowed and their cheering had grown softer, all eyes on the four in the centre of the path. “Okay, lead the way.”

With a grin on both of their lips, Flo and Cali raced away, leaving Cadence and Shining to follow at a walk.

The noise of the crowd picked up once again as the continued to move, but it was barely a whisper compared to their previous deafening sound.

Her ears clear of any magic, Cadence could head murmurs running through the crowd underneath the cheers. Some of them brought warmth to her cheeks while others caused her smile to shrink.

“Look Azure, it’s the pony who saved you from Ember.”

“It’s so sad to see her go, she really brought a certain something to this city.”

“Good riddance, she finally leaving. Now Rockholm can return to normal.”

The last glimpse of conversation sent a shiver down Cadence’s spine, a sickly feeling tainting her stomach. Will this city really turn back to the way it was if I leave? Faces filled her mind as she thought, the faces of all the kind friends she was leaving behind. No, they’ll make sure this city only gets better.

“Princess it’s over here.”

A gap had opened up in the crowd to one side of the street, Flo sticking out of it, her claw waving Cadence over.

Shaking the thoughts from her mind, Cadence moved towards Flo, Shining at her side. The street they followed Flo down was empty of any other dragons, although some of the crowd soon followed her steps.

After a short walk the street widened out once more, Flo holding her claw before Cadence’s eyes as it did so. “Don’t look yet princess. Wait till I tell you to.”

Closing her eyes, Cadence felt the smile on her lips widened into a grin so wide her cheeks hurt. The sound of metal scraping against stone filled Cadence’s ears as she stepped forward, her mind racing to decipher what the surprise could be.

“Open them now.”

Lifting her eyelids, Cadence found herself staring into her own eyes. The reflection of her and Shining in the silvery metal before her distorted by its shape. Her brow creasing with confusion, she tilted her head to the side. “What is it?”

From her side Cadence heard a sigh leave Flo’s lips. “It’s you.”

“Take a step back Cadence,” Shining said from behind her. “I can see the shape much better from back here.”

Following Shining’s advice, Cadence moved back to where he stood and gazed at the shaped piece of metal once more, her eyes finally able to pick out features. A head twice as large as her own was attached to the body by a neck as thick as Cadence’s chest.

Tracing the sculpture with her eyes, Cadence found a horn coming from the head, its point as sharp as a claw unlike her own rounded tip. The legs that held the sculpture upright were as straight as the bars of a gate, and a few lengths of metal erupting from the back seemed to form a tail.

Despite the roughness of the gift, Cadence felt her smile growing wider than she would have thought possible, her eyes welling up with tears once more. “Oh, you didn’t have to do this Flo, Cali. Did you two make it all yourselves?”

Flo grinned, pointing to her own chest with a claw. “Cali showed me how to change the metal. I did all the rest.”

“I can see.” Cadence shifted her eyes to the orange-scaled dragon beside Flo and found a smile on Cali’s lips as well.

“She’s not too bad for a first timer.” Reaching her claw towards the sculpture, Cali tested the sharpness of the horn against her scale. “Flo only cut herself twice.”

“Oh, no, Flo, are they bad?”

Lifting her own claw, Flo displayed the side by side pair of slices in her scales with pride, the edges holding a hint of red. “Nothing bad princess. I didn’t even feel them.”

“Good.” A sigh left Cadence’s lips as she studied the supposed replica of her for a few more moments before looking back to Flo. “Thank you so much for this, both of you, but we should be leaving now.”

Hearing Cadence’s words, Flo abandoned her cool attitude and leapt forward, wrapping Cadence in a hug. “You don’t have to go princess. You can stay here forever.”

Over the previous few months Flo had grown, and now Cadence looked up to the dragon when they embraced. “I know it’s hard. It’s hard for me as well, but Shining and I have to keep travelling. There are others out there that need our help just as much as this city did.”

Flo opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Blue eyes quivered as tears formed in their corners, Flo’s muzzle lowering to bury itself in the pink of Cadence’s coat. “So I’ll never see you ever?”

Stroking her hoof along Flo’s neck, Cadence felt her still wet eyes blooming with tears once more. “Well, not for a long time, but I promise I’ll see you again.”

The pair shared the embrace for some time, silently shedding tears in each others grasp. Beside them Shining and Cali shared a look and nodded, giving the two the time they needed.

Eventually Flo and Cadence broke apart, drying their eyes with hooves and claws. By now the crowd had leaked into the street behind them and were watching with murmurs.

Glancing back at the growing crowd, Cadence let out a sigh. “Well, we should be going. I’ll see you again Flo, one day.”

With a small smile on her lips and cheeks glistening with tears, Flo nodded. “If you don’t I’ll visit you.”

“I’d like that.”

One final wave and the pony pair turned to move back through the crowd to the main street. In Cadence’s chest something tugged at her heart, bringing the faces of all she was leaving behind to mind once more.

The streets seemed to shorten as they moved, the tall, obsidian gates of Rockholm soon standing over them.

“Well,” Cadence said, turning back to the city. “This is it.”

“Mmm.” Shining turned as well. “We might never see this city again.”

“Oh don’t say that.” With a sigh, Cadence lifted her eyes to the sky. “But you’re right, if princess duties back in Canterlot get out of hoof this will be our last goodbye.” Lifting her eyes even further, she spotted two pairs of wings descending towards them from high in the sky, one pair dwarfing the other. “Everyone else knows that too.”

The sound of wings soon drew Shining’s gaze to the sky as well, a grin cracking his lips wide open when he shared the sight. “One goodbye wasn’t good enough for them, was it.”

“We thought we’d fly you the first little bit,” Cloud said as he and Skylight landed with the sound of hooves on stone.

Cadence’s found her vision blurring and cheeks growing wet once again, the smile on her lips hurting. “One last flight?”

“Then you’re on your own.” Skylight lowered her body to the ground as she spoke. “Those flying lessons better not be wasted.”

Climbing atop Skylight’s back, Cadence nodded. “After all you’ve shown me I could never give up flying.” Warmth filled her chest at the familiar sensation of Skylight’s strong muscles beneath her belly.

His grin still wide, Shining climbed atop Cloud’s back and held on loosely. The position one more of calm than fear for him now. “Let’s go.”

On Shining’s word the pair of pegasi leapt into the air, mane whipping backward and their passengers tightening their grip as not to be thrown off. The clouds above came down to meet them, all four closing their eyes as they burst through one and into the erie space above.

Cadence’s breath was stolen from her lungs as she took in the sight. Cloud’s stretched on forever, like islands of fluffy white. “Is it always this beautiful up here?” She asked once she had recovered her breath.

Slowing her speed with a beat of her wings, Skylight shrugged. “Only when the sun’s out.” With another beat of her wings, she shot forward, catching up with Cloud as he raced ahead.

Allowing a deep breath to fill her lungs, Cadence loosened her grip around Skylight’s neck and closed her eyes, focusing on the wind playing with her mane. Despite the calm around her, she couldn’t ignore the sickly feeling growing in her stomach. I wonder what’s going to happen next?

She had read through Celestia’s plans over in the days leading up to their departure, following the trail of small towns up to the wide expanse of land marked as Griffon Territory. Will their cities be in as much danger as this one was? She had thought, the image of a fire-breathing griffon attacking the walls of Rockholm filling her mind.

Shaking the strange creature her mind had concocted from her thoughts, Cadence focused on the sky before her. Holes were opening in the clouds, revealing the red-brown plain below. Looking up, she found the mountains were approaching quickly, their sight bringing many old memories to mind.

In Cadence’s head Ember stood across the cave from her, a small scaled form bound in chains behind him. She winced at the memory, clearing her mind once more. I won’t have to deal with another Ember, will I?

All Cadence had to base her predictions on were the cities and towns she had visited in the past. Canterlot and Ponyville brought warmth to her thoughts, yet her picture of them was blurry, the memories so old they felt as if they had happened in a different lifetime.

The last two places we have visited have not been in such good shape, Cadence thought, recalling the army base where she had met Cloud and Skylight, remembering the state Rockholm had been in when she had arrived. What if it gets worse the further we go?

A jolt broke Cadence from her thoughts, the unexpected landing knocking the air from her lungs. Briefly stunned, her eyelids fluttered as she took in her surroundings. “Oh, is this it?”

“Yes,” Skylight nodded as she spoke. “Unless you want us to race to the bridge.”

The jab brought a smile back to Cadence’s lips, her stomach illy recalling the past times it had experienced Skylight’s top speeds. “We’ll pass on that one.” Once on the ground again, she moved to stand beside Shining, the two couples facing each other.

“I guess this is goodbye, again,” Shining said, unsure of what else he could ease the strange tension with.

Cloud nodded at his words. “Yes.” A sigh left his lips, eyes flashing with months of memories in an instant. “I know we might never see each other again, but this has been the best year of my life. I’ll never forget you two.”

“I won’t either.”

“We won’t either.”

“We won’t either.”

Skylight, Cadence and Shining spoke in unison, all three sharing glances before chuckling.

“We’ll see you again, someday,” Skylight said before opening her wings and turning to Cloud. “Race you back.” The pegasus pair erupted into the sky with a cloud of dust and the sound of laughter, leaving Cadence and Shining behind.

Following the pairs of wings into the sky, Cadence’s smile shrunk slightly. “Well, this is it.” A heavy sigh left her lips, pink eyelids dropping a little.

“We should get walking.” Placing his hoof on Cadence’s neck, Shining turned her away from the last sight of the friends and towards the plain before them. “Looking back will only make you miss them more, make it harder to keep moving forward.”

Wiping the hint of a tear from the corner of her eye, Cadence nodded. “You’re right. I should be excited about everything that waits for us ahead.” As she stepped forward a gust of wind met her head on, its touch lifting her mane into the air. “And this land won’t do the walking for us.”

They moved across the plain while the wind played with their manes and tails in short gusts and long breaths. With each step its grew bolder and bolder, the time between its greetings lessening until it was a constant breeze along their coats.

Thankful for the cooling embrace of the wind, Cadence took a deep breath of its sweet air and squinted at the burning sun above. It was nearing the horizon, about to kiss the mountain range that lay in the distance far ahead.

“Where are we going to take shelter tonight?” She asked Shining while gazing across the featureless stone and dust plain that stretched out until the mountains.

Turning to look upon Cadence’s face, Shining shrugged. “I’ve been thinking the same thing myself, and it looks like we’ll be sleeping out in the open unless a cave pops out of the ground.”

No such cave came, and the pair were forced to construct their ethereal tent and mattress in the open, its glow easily visible from anywhere on the plain.

“I wonder what the griffons will be like,” Shining said as they settled down to eat, each taking a pastry from the selection Adicus had provided. Apple for Shining and raspberry for Cadence. The stone beneath them still held the heat the sun had soaked into it all day, leaving them with no need for a fire.

Swallowing his first mouthful, Shining continued. “Do you think they’ll have massive stone castles like the dragons?”

“Hmmm,” Cadence nibbled at the edge of her of pie as she thought, trying to recall anything she had learnt of the griffon culture. “Well, I haven’t read too much about them, but won’t they be similar to pegasi? Maybe they have cities built in the clouds?”

Having fit almost half of his pie into his mouth by the time Cadence had finished speaking, Shining swallowed hard before opening his lips. “I don’t think so, the only reason the pegasi can make those cloud cities is because of their magic right?”

After a moments thought Cadence nodded. “Mmm, you’re right, but I don’t imagine them building with stone either. Maybe they have wooden houses like us?”

Shining glanced at their surroundings before shaking his head. “Unless there’s a forest over that mountain range then I don’t know where they get the wood from.”

“Well, we have no idea what’s on the other side of that mountain.” Turning her head, Cadence looked towards the shadows of peaks in the far off distance. “But it was marked as desert on the map.”

A smile lit up Shining’s lips. “Then it’s probably a desert.” His meal now finished, he kissed Cadence’s cheek with sticky lips. “But instead of worrying about what’s ahead, why don’t we enjoy this time we have alone?” His lips moved towards hers, tasting the raspberry flavour that filled her mouth.

Feeling a warmth fill her chest, Cadence drunk in Shining’s kiss, grasping at his neck with a hoof, pulling him closer. Their lips shared the embrace for some time, both uncaring of the world around them and focused solely on their partner.

After a while Shining lifted his hoof to stroke at Cadence’s mane, before moving it down her back a few moments later. Along her spine and towards her tail his hoof travelled with soft massaging movements, Cadence moaning into his lips and twisting her body towards his.

As he made to move down her rump Cadence broke from the kiss. “I know you’re eager, so am I, but in a place like this we don’t know who’s watching. It makes me feel uncomfortable.”

Shining moved his head back, meeting Cadence’s eyes before moving forward once more to kiss at her cheek. “I know what you mean, it feels like almost anyone could sneak up on us while we sleep.”

Glancing to the tent behind them, Cadence’s lips lifted with a smile as she turned back to Shining. “Celestia’s magic will always protect us, no matter who tries to break in.”

Looking back at the ethereal tent as well, Shining smirked. “Unless Cloud and Skylight decide to surprise us in the middle of the night.”

The mention of the pegasus pair drew Cadence’s smile even wider. “Well, I wouldn’t mind that.” A yawn broke her lips as she finished speaking, distorting the final word. Once the yawn had faded, she lifted her pie to her lips. “Why don’t I finish this and then we can get some sleep? We have a lot of travel ahead of us.”

With each day they spent walking the strength of the wind grew and grew until it was whipping up small storms of dust, tinting both ponies coats with red-brown. The mountains ahead kept Shining and Cadence moving, a goal that came closer with each step.

After a few days their supplies of water were exhausted, Cadence forced to produce it magically to keep thirst at bay. As she worked Shining watched their surroundings with lazy eyes, a hoof held up to shelter them from the glare of the sun.

“I wonder why we haven’t seen anyone since we left Rockholm?” He said, thinking aloud. “It’s almost like we’re the only two between those mountains and the ones we left behind.”

“Well,” Opening her eyes and silencing her horn, Cadence corked the now full gourd of water, one of the two Skylight and Cloud had given them for their travels. “It isn’t the nicest of places, most would avoid travelling through it unless they have to, like us.”

“Yeah.” As Shining spoke a gust of wind scooped dust into his mouth, causing him to spit and gag. “I can see why. We need to get out of this place as soon as we can.”

Looking to her side, Cadence lifted one of her wings with a smile. “We could always try flying, I’ve gotten a lot better with Skylight’s help.”

Pushing the grimace from his lips with a smile, Shining lifted a hoof to rest on Cadence’s shoulder. “I know you have, but we’ve tried this without our bags on and you know how that went. It’ll be a while before you can carry both me and the bags.”

“Mmm,” A sigh left Cadence’s lips before she rose to her hooves, magically lifting her bags over her withers. “Well, why don’t we keep moving? The more we walk the less time we have to spend with this dust.”

Sleep came slow for Cadence that night. Despite her heavy limbs her eyes refused to stay shut, the stars and moon soaring high above holding their attention. Beside her Shining slept with heavy breaths, his belly in the air and a satisfied smile on his lips.

Tearing her eyes away from the soft light of the stars, Cadence turned to watch the peaceful Shining, hoping his sleep would encourage her own. She smiled at the end of his mane, caught between his lips, her hoof reaching forward to gently lift it away.

His hair’s gotten far too long. The thought filled her mind as she brushed his fringe back over one ear, careful not to wake him. A picture of his mane when they had departed filled her mind, barely long enough to hang over his eyes, but over the months in Rockholm it had grown unruly, its length rivaling hers.

We should get it cut in the next city we’re in. If I let him grow it too long he might start tripping over it. Cadence smiled at the thought, her minding producing a picture of Shining with a mane down to his hooves, falling face first into the dust.

“Ahh!”

The whisper of a scream broke Cadence from her thoughts and drew her eyes towards the distant range of mountains it had come from. Did I really hear that? Tilting an ear towards the mountains, she concentrated, waiting many moments for another sound, but nothing came.

Maybe I imagined it? A yawn broke her lips at the thought. I am half asleep after all. She settled down beside Shining once more, forcing her eyes closed and trying to find the darkness of sleep in her mind.

As she listened to Shining‘s breathing, the weight of sleep slowly came to rest in her mind, calming her thoughts and lulling her towards the darkness that waited.

“Help!”

Another cry, this one so quiet Shining’s breathing almost drowned it out, pulled Cadence from the warm embrace of sleep. Her head lifted, ears turning towards the sound and waiting. Once again nothing else came.

I must be dreaming these things, She told herself as she curled up beside Shining for what seemed like the dozenth time that night. Scaring myself awake. The weight of sleep came upon her once more, this time swallowing her in shadows.

“Cadence, it’s time to wake up.” Shining’s voice and the touch of his lips against her cheek caused Cadence’s eyes to flutter open.

“You woke up before me?”

Smiling, Shining leant into another kiss, this time on her lips. “I was surprised too, but it seems like you were very sleepy so I left you alone.”

Rubbing at her eye with a hoof, Cadence felt the gnaw of hunger in her stomach as she sat up. “What time is it?”

Shining glanced up at the sky before looking back to Cadence. “Almost noon. I thought I should wake you before it gets too late.”

A yawn broke Cadence’s lips as she tried to speak, her head still feeling heavy with want for rest. “What? Why am I still so tired then?” Kneading the side of her head with a hoof, she tried to bring back any memories of the previous night. “Did we sleep late last night?”

“No,” A hint of worry touched at Shining’s brow in the form of a crease, his foreleg reaching forth to stroke gently at her mane. “We went to bed at around our normal time. Did something keep you up last night.”

“Well,” Another yawn pushed its way through Cadence’s lips. “I can’t quite remember, all I can remember is-” Her eyes widened in an instant, her jaw hanging open. “These strange cries, like someone was screaming for help. I got up and tried to look for them but they only came as I was falling asleep.”

Chuckling lightly, Shining continued to comfort Cadence with strokes of his hoof down her neck. “Are you sure it wasn’t part of a dream?”

“That’s what I thought as well, but it kept on happening, over and over, until I could see sunlight coming up over the mountains.” Cadence rubbed at her eyes again, as if the movement would return her lost sleep.

Worry returned to Shining’s brow as he allowed Cadence to rest her head against his foreleg. “So you got no sleep at all last night?”

“A little bit, but-” A yawn forced Cadence to pause, her eyes blinking slowly. “I feel like I still need more.”

Lowering Cadence’s head back to the mattress underneath, Shining kissed at her forehead. “You should get some more then. We’ve got plenty of time to get to the griffons and I don’t want to push you too hard. I’ll wake you up later.”

“Alright,” Cadence said through another yawn, her eyelids sinking, filling her vision with blackness. “I’ll see you-” Sleep overcame Cadence’s mind before she could finish, quieting her words to uninterpretable murmurs.

Sunlight leaked in through Cadence’s eyelids as they fluttered open, the bright light washing any remnants of sleep from her mind. She allowed a yawn to escape her lips as she sat up, taking in her surroundings through blurry eyes.

“Shining?” She called, unable to find a white and blue blob amongst the hazy red-brown that surrounded her.

“I’m here.” His response came from behind her, along with the rustle of paper. “I thought I’d let you have as much sleep as you needed, didn’t want to wake a tired Cadence again.”

A smile on her lips, Cadence turned towards Shining. “Well, is there still enough time in the day to keep moving?”

Shining glanced up at the sun before looking back down to Cadence. “It looks like we’ve got a little longer still. Are you sure you don’t want something to eat before we go?” At Shining’s mention, Cadence’s stomach let out a growl, causing both ponies to chuckle.

“That would be a good idea,” She said, searching for their saddlebags with her eyes. “We’ll leave once I’m finished.”

“We really should stop Cadence, a stallion needs his rest.” Without waiting for a response from Cadence, Shining lowered himself to the dust below, a yawn leaving his lips. “We can’t walk all night.”

“Wait,” Cadence held a hoof to Shining lips, silencing the sounds of his breathing. Pink ears perked up and her eyes widened. “Can’t you hear that?”

“No, I haven’t heard it once all night.” His voice soft and sleepy, Shining looked up to the stars as he spoke. “And it must be halfway through the night by now. We should both-” Another yawn leapt free from Shining’s mouth, cutting off his voice. “Get some sleep.”

Glancing down at the tired state Shining was in, Cadence felt a hint of guilt swirling in her stomach. “You’re right, I’ve been leading us like a crazy pony all night. We should go to-” Her ears perked up, head jolting towards the distant mountain range.

In time with Cadence, Shining jerked upright as well, his eyes wide. “Is that what you’ve been hearing, like a tiny scream?”

Cadence nodded, a smile spreading her lips that did not match the rest of her startled expression. “I’ve been hearing that all night, and I heard it all of last night as well.”

“I can see why you didn’t sleep then, it sounds like someone’s crying out in pain.”

“Mmm,” Cadence nodded again, her eyes still glued to the shadows of mountains that filled the horizon. “Sometimes there are other screams as well, like someone else is in need of help.”

“Maybe it’s a haunted mountain, and that’s a ghost crying for help?” A smile on his lips, Shining magically lifted his saddlebags from his back and placed them to one side. “Or maybe that’s how griffons speak?”

“Shining, this is no time to joke. Someone could be truly in danger.”

“I know, but they’ll have to wait” Shining responded as he magically formed a tent around them, and a mattress below them following that. “Need sleep.” One final yawn left his lips and his eyelids fell shut.

“Shining?” Touching a hoof to his side, Cadence rolled her eyes. I’ll never wake him now.

“Help!”

The cry drifted through the air again, reaching Cadence ears as a whisper. She shivered in response, mind conjuring images of Flo trapped under a rock, unable to move, voice growing hoarser and hoarser with each call.

No, She shook the thought from her head. It can’t be Flo up there, she’s safe back in Rockholm. Even so, Looking back to mountains, Cadence grimaced. It could be another dragon stuck up there with no one to help.

No one but me. Lighting her horn, Cadence deposited her bags beside Shining before opening her wings. A light tingling danced from base to tip, the muscles along her back begging for attention. I do need some flying practice anyway.

Crouching low to the ground, Cadence spread her wings as wide as she could before leaping toward the sky. With one beat she was rocketing upward, the cool night air obeying the command of her feathers and carrying her higher.

Once at a comfortable height, Cadence directed her strength forward, her eyes set on the mountains that had been her goal for days. Whoever you are, whatever’s wrong, I’m coming for you.

The smile on Cadence’s lips spread into a grin at the thrill of flight filled her body with a warmth that no cold night could steal away.

“Help!”

Another cry sounded, followed by the scream, the pair of sounds tearing Cadence’s joy from her lips. I’m getting closer, it’s definitely on these mountains. With the want to comfort driving her wings, she sped forward at an even greater speed, the wind causing her mane to dance behind.

After what seemed like an eternity of flight for Cadence, gritting her teeth at the tear-bringing cries, the mountains were finally below her. She slowed her pace, descending towards where she had last heard the call for help.

“Help!”

Again the call came, so close this time it felt to Cadence like it were inside her own ears. I’m coming, She thought, resisting the urge to respond with a cry of her own, not wanting to scare the needy soul away.

The wind rushing past her mane whipped it into a storm as Cadence folded her wings against her side, muzzle pointed towards the fading echo of a cry. Faster than she expected, the ground came up to meet her, pink wings barely able to pull out of a dive and dump her roughly on the ground.

“Well, I still need more practice,” Cadence reminded herself as she closed her wings, flexing her now sore legs.

“Is someone there?”

The voice caused Cadence to remember where she was and why she had come. “Yes, I’m here to-” Before she could finish she felt scales press against her muzzle, silencing her while a scaled foreleg pulled her backwards.

A door slammed and bolts slid across wood before Cadence felt the grip release her, a breathy panting filling her ears.

“Wha-” Before Cadence could utter a word her mouth was blocked with scales once more.

“Shhh,” The whisper crept into her ear, barely louder than the sound of her own breathing. “If you make too much noise it’ll find us.”

Cadence felt the scales lift from her muzzle once more, freeing her lips to move. “If wha-” The moment she spoke the scales returned, this time Cadence sensing the tip of a talon at her cheek.

“Quiet.”

One side of Cadence wanted to bathe the room in the light of her magic, throwing the mysterious dragon off of her in the process. This dragon could be meaning well, She thought also, deciding to wait until her company deemed it safe to speak.

Time moved for Cadence like a glacier, her mind left with little to do but worry. Again and again she thought she heard the now familiar cry for help, but the walls around her seemed to drown out any sound from outside.

Whoever it is needs help. Despite her best efforts to push the images away, Cadence mind kept conjuring images of Flo. Trapped under fallen rocks or bound up in chains, each one made her shiver. It’s not Flo out there, She reminded herself.

But it’s still someone, The other part of her mind argued back. Someone who’s desperately crying for help. It took all her might to suppress the urge. The urge to force her way from the confines she was in and move into the night searching for the needy one.

With thoughts of the cry outside pushed from her mind, Cadence’s thoughts drifted to Shining. I hope he hasn’t woken up and noticed I’ve gone. He’ll be all alone. Turning her head, she tried to glance around the darkness for any signs of the coming morning.

How long have I been here? Could it be morning already? Her desire to leave the darkness she waited within grew and grew once more, a tingling running down her forelegs. I need to get out of here.

Just as Cadence was about to light her horn, the dragon who shared the darkness with her spoke. “It’s gone, for now.”

“Why did you bring me in here?” She called out while lighting her horn. Around her was a plainly decorated cave with a wooden door covering what seemed to be the entrance. Before her a dragon stood, black scales appearing deep blue in the glow of Cadence’s magic.

“I was protecting you.” The frantic voice that spilled from the dragon’s lips brought her wide eyes to Cadence’s attention, their purple pupils like pinpricks in an expanse of white. “You were almost taken by the evil spirit outside.” A shiver ran through the dragon’s body as she glanced to the door.

Taking a deep breath, Cadence doused the flame of annoyance growing in her mind, mentally going over her situation with calm thoughts before speaking. “Well, why don’t we start at the beginning? Could I know your name?”

“Pido,” She answered with shaky words. “But that doesn’t matter, you need to leave this town before the spirit comes back for you.”

Standing, Cadence took a step towards Pido before placing a hoof on a scaled shoulder. “Pido, are you sure it’s an evil spirit out there. It sounded like someone in trouble to me.”

Pido’s head turned back to Cadence with jolted movement, the dragon reminding her of a pair of clockwork puppets she had seen as a foal. A shiver ran down her spine at the memory. “That’s what the spirit wants you to think, it draws in travellers like you then it eats you from head to tail.” Pido’s voice seemed to be slightly higher pitched than it had been previously, words leaving her lips at a faster rate.

“Well, have you ever seen it do this?”

With frantic nodding Pido turned her head back to the door. “It was many months ago now, the last time I had a night of sleep. The spirit came into town calling out for help, and one of Ultis’s hatchlings went out to greet it. That poor thing was tackled to the ground and had its blood sucked clean from it before the spirit tossed the used body down the mountain.”

Warning filled Cadence’s features, her mind racing. What kind of creature kills like that. After a moments thought the answer came to her. Bat ponies, but surely one would never come all the way out here, and they’d never attack a dragon.

Still unable to believe what Pido was telling her, Cadence continued her questioning. “Are you sure it was a hatchling the ba- spirit killed? Not some small animal that looked similar?”

“It may have been dark but I know what I saw, and Ultis was missing her hatchling the next day as well. There’s no other way to explain it.” With the flick of a talon, Pido lifted a flap in the door before her, allowing space for her eyes to see outside.

There’s no way to argue with this dragon. Sighing, Cadence moved beside Pido and tried to gaze over her shoulder only to have the flap slammed shut before she could peek.

Pido turned her head with one sharp swing, meeting Cadence’s eyes with pinpricks of purple. “You mustn’t look at the spirit, for if it meets your eyes you’ll be caught in its will.”

“I thought you said the spirit was gone?” Cadence felt her patience with the dragon wearing away and her worry for Shining building. I never told him where I was going. What if he’s woken up to find me gone? I need to get back soon.

“-any time.” Consumed with thought, Cadence only caught the last of Pido’s words.

“Sorry, I didn’t quite hear what you said.”

“I said the spirit is silent when it’s stalking its prey. It only cries when it wants to draw helpless dragons in. It could be waiting out there right now.” The corner of Pido’s eyes twitched before she turned back to the door, opening the flap and peeking through once more.

“Well, isn’t it dangerous for you to look at the spirit as well?”

“Not for me, I have a special ability.” A small smile cracked on Pido’s lips, showing the sharp points of her teeth behind, each one stained a deep crimson. “I can look into the spirit’s eyes without falling under its spell. That’s why I’m the protector of this village, but I’m the only one in the whole village who has this ability.”

Turning her whole body, Pido stepped towards Cadence, the motion taking her so close their chests were touching. “And since I’m the only one the some fall prey to the spirit every now and then.”

The stench of flesh filled Cadence’s nostrils as Pido took a breath, causing her to take a few steps back in recoil. “Well, that’s great, but I really need to go.”

Pido took another step towards Cadence, the smile on her lips growing even wider. “You can’t go yet, you need to wait until sunrise. Otherwise the spirit might catch you. You must stay here and be safe with me.”

There’s no way I’m leaving her politely, Cadence realised, lighting her horn. “I’m sorry for this but I need to go now.” With the ring of magic she lifted Pido into the air and encased the bolts on the door in her magic, wiggling them back and forth with hope to release them.

“You can’t open those without the key,” Despite hovering in midair, Pido’s voice rang with glee. “You’ll have to stay in her all night after all.”

Shaking her head, Cadence swallowed the whole door in her blue glow. “Sorry about this, I promise I’ll pay you back.” With a deep breath she tore the door from its hinges, the sound of splintering rock filling the air.

Still holding Pido in her magic, Cadence dashed through the door, leaving the suspended dragon inside.

Outside it was silent, the only the ring of Cadence’s magic and a light breeze filling the air. Taking a moment to listen, she waited for the cry. Nothing came but a strange cackle from Pido’s cave.

I can’t wait here all night, I need to get back to Shining. Cadence silenced her magic as her wings lifted her into the air, her lips moving with a whisper. “Sorry Pido, I’ll help you fix everything later.”

Color flooded into Cadence’s eyes as her eyelids flickered open, the sound of teeth biting through pastry filling her ears. “Shining?” She whispered as she sat, wincing at the uncomfortable weight of her head.

Turning away from the pie suspended before him, Shining smiled at the sleepy Cadence. “You woke up earlier today. Did you get more sleep last night?”

“No,” Pressing a hoof to the side of her head, Cadence tried to rub away the pain, but her efforts only worsened its sting. “Even less I think.”

The smile on Shining’s lips fell away, his eyes turning towards the saddlebags open before him. “Would some food help wake you up?”

“I-” Meaning to say no, Cadence clutched at her belly, where a stab of pain had come to her notice. “I think that would be best.”

She wolfed through one, two, and part of a third pastry before stopping herself. “You can have the rest.”

Shining’s eyes lit up at the offering. Leaning forward, he made the pie vanish from mid air with a single bite before looking back up at Cadence. Concern lined his features. “Did that voice keep you up all night again?”

“Well,” Cadence glanced backward, her eyes finding the seemingly close mountains clear in the mid day air. “You could say that.” She took a deep breath, collecting memories of the previous night in her mind before speaking.

“I went looking for whoever was crying out last night, and I think I found out who, or what it was.”

Eyes wide, Shining followed Cadence’s words with slight nods.

“I met, well more like was captured by a dragon up on that mountain. Pido was her name. She seemed terrified of the cries for help, saying it was a monster trying to lure in victims to kill or something.”

Shining’s jaw dropped, his foreleg lifting to hold Cadence as he shuffled closer. “Did you see the monster?” He felt her lean into him, finding comfort in his chest.

“No, she his both of us in a cave until she said it was gone, but I don’t think it was a monster out there. I asked her about it and Pido said she had seen it drink its fill of blood from a hatchling before throwing it down the mountain side. It sounded like a bat pony to me.”

“Are you sure?” Shining rolled his eyes into his head, recalling what make believe tales he had heard about the little seen race of ponies. “I know everyone made bat ponies out to be terrible monsters, but they’re supposed to be quite selective with what they drink. They only drink from animals they’ve raised themselves.”

“Yes, that’s what I thought as well. Maybe Pido had seen the bat pony snacking and mistaken its meal for a hatchling.” A shudder ran through Cadence’s body. “She said she was sure it was a hatchling however, and that others had been killed by the same monster.”

Holding Cadence tight against his body, Shining buried his muzzle in her mane. “Maybe there is a rogue bat pony up on that mountain, killing dragons, or maybe it’s not a bat pony. There might be a type of dragon that feeds the same way.”

“Mmm, you’re right. It might not be a bat pony but a monster, or evil spirit I think she was saying.” Drawing her head from Shining’s chest, Cadence gazed back at the mountain range once more. “I can’t help but wonder if it is someone in danger, someone who really needs help.”

Following her eyes, Shining stared at the mountains for a moment as well. “When we get there we can both find out together, but until then can you not go there on your own? For my sake.”

“But,” Looking back to Shining, Cadence met his eyes with pain in her own. “What if it really is someone in danger up there? I can’t leave them all alone.”

“I know how much you want to help, but it makes me worry so much when you go off alone like that. At least when you went after Ember you had Skylight, but now, you’re by yourself. I don’t want to think about what could happen, especially if there is a monster out there.”

Leaning forward, Cadence pressed her lips into Shining’s, the two sharing the contact for some time.

Eventually she pulled away and stared up at his worried eyes. “Shining, I know you care for me a lot, I know how dangerous this could be and I know you would feel if I went off alone again, but I have to. I can’t leave whoever it is out there, calling for help with no answer. I need to save them before it’s too late.”

Shining stared back into Cadence’s eyes, watching her pink pupils quiver with fear, with determination. After a long silence he sighed. “If you really must go, if you really must help, then go. I don’t want to hold you back from the calling in your heart.” Even as he spoke he felt the twisting of his gut, a nervous sickness brewing in his stomach.

At Shining’s words a rush of warmth filled Cadence’s chest, but a pang of guilt joined it as well. Oh, I’m so selfish. Despite her want to apologize, her want to assure the sorry looking stallion before her that she would not put herself in any more danger without him, the cry for help filled her mind. Someone needs me more, I think.

“Why don’t we start walking anyway?” Shining suggested, breaking the tense silence. “Maybe we’ll be able to reach the mountains before night.”

A small smile touched Cadence’s lips. “Well, we can try.”

The heat of the day passed with little words shared between the two ponies, both of them mulling over thoughts in their minds.

Every so often Cadence would turn to Shining, open her lips as if she were about to speak, only to take a breath and turn back to the mountains before them. Inside her head raged a battle of guilt and duty.

How would I feel if I was him? She thought, her mind conjuring images of Shining heading into a deep dark cave alone, unsure of what waited for him at the end. Screams and roars echoed from the cave in her mind, causing her to wince.

The thought brought a sickness to her stomach. I could never let him go on such a dangerous venture alone, but, Looking to Shining, Cadence sighed. That’s what he’s doing for me, letting me go.

Her lips opened, mind tempted to tell Shining she had rethought her plans. I can always wait a day or two, then he can come with me.

No, The other half of her mind argued back. Whoever it is up there, they’re in trouble now. If you wait even one more day it could be too late for your help. Biting her lip, she turned back to the mountain once more.

“Cadence.” Shining’s voice drew her eyes towards him, to the knowing smile that rested upon his lips. “I know you’re worried about what could happen tonight. That if something goes wrong it’ll be all your fault, that you should just stay with me.”

Stilling the movement of her legs, Cadence turned her whole body towards Shining. “Well, some what, but that’s not-”

A raised white hoof silenced Cadence after Shining took a step towards her. “I know you can do it, I believe you won’t fail. Even if there is a monster up there waiting to drink your blood. You can beat it.”

As Shining’s hoof fell away from her lips, Cadence’s jaw dropped with it, the words she had previously formulated forgotten by her tongue. After a moment of staring at Shining she managed to speak. “I, thank you.”

With Shining’s help, one half of her mind won the war, a smile spreading across her lips as a result. “I’ll save whoever it is, or beat that monster, tonight. I won’t let you down, I won’t let either of us down.”

A fresh energy running through her veins, Cadence turned back to the ever growing mountains range and continued walking, the sound of Shining’s hoofsteps following her.

“Goodnight Shining.” His tired eyelids were already falling closed as Cadence kissed him to sleep.

“You can do it.” The words fell from Shining’s lips as a mumble while his eyes shut, the weight of sleep locking them tight.

A nervous sensation swirling in her belly and running along her limbs, Cadence stepped from the tent before opening her wings. Her eyes found the moon above, and the first few stars joining it.

Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, Cadence perked her ears high, listening for the cry that had rung again and again the previous night and the one before that. Yet no sound came but the soft steps of the wind dancing across the plain.

Maybe someone helped them last night? Maybe they don’t need help anymore, or maybe? Cadence shivered at the thought, pushing the image of a limp and deflated Flo from her mind. I have to go anyway, they might be too tired to cry any more, at the point where they need help the most.

She flexed her legs before leaping into the air, allowing the light wind to take her higher with a few flaps.

The ground they had covered that day allowed her to arrive at the mountain range before the moon had finished its climb in the sky. Still no cry. Gazing down at the shadow below her, Cadence felt worry twisting in her stomach. Something must have gone wrong.

Folding her wings against her side, she dove towards the ground, pulling up long before she should have. Skylight would have not been happy with that. A small smile touched Cadence’s lips at the thought of the pegasus. I wonder what they’re doing now?

Cadence shook the thought from her head as she landed. I can think about them later, right now I need to focus. Her wings folded away, she tilted one of her ears skyward, testing the air for the cry that had consumed her thoughts for the past two days. Again, nothing came.

Well, I might be on the wrong mountain. Light her horn, Cadence bathed her surroundings in blue. Rocks were scattered on either side of her, forming a tight path up the mountainside, behind was a similar sight, the rocks growing larger as her eyes moved downward.

This is the wrong place. Taking another look, she found no sign of Pido’s door, or rather the hole that would be left after she tore it away. Cadence’s lips found a grimace as the thought crept into her memory. I hope she doesn’t hold a grudge for that.

Reopening her wings, Cadence lifted herself into the sky once more, this time using the light of her horn to guide her way. She glided slowly along the range, bathing familiar looking caves in a more focused beam of her light, but finding nothing.

By the time the moon had risen to its peak in the sky, Cadence touched down on the ground again. Why can’t I find it anymore. A mix of worry and frustration was churning in her stomach, her mind conjuring all sorts of nightmarish images of what could have happened in the time she had wasted. I need the cry to lead me.

The whispers of the night, previously drowned out by the ringing of her horn, flowed into Cadence’s ear, widening her eyes and dropping her jaw. There it is. Like the barest tickle of a feather she felt the cry come to her, almost indiscernible from the breath of the wind.

Not wanting to lose the sound she had been searching for, Cadence took a gentle step towards it, keeping her ear high in the air. With her step the sound seemed to move however, now coming from behind her.

What? I’m sure it was, Shaking the bud of annoyance away from her mind, Cadence once again turned towards the sound and took a step forward.

Where did it go? Her eyes widened and ears stiffened to points, the wings at her sides stretching out, ready for flight. I can’t have done all this to fail them. With the spring of her legs she leapt into the air, racing towards where she had last heard the whispering cry.

Between the beats of her wings Cadence pricked her ears up, drawing in every sound that rushed past them. Why did I wait this long? She felt worry overflowing from her stomach and filling the back of her throat. If I had have searched more last night I could have saved them sooner.

Even with the sense of failure weighing down her limbs, Cadence continued to fly, hoping that she would chance upon the needy one’s location.

“Help!”

The sound caused Cadence’s wings to freeze, her head flicking back and forth as she glided soundlessly downward. Where did that come from? Did I even hear that, or did I just imagine it?

Her hooves made contact with the mountainside without another cry reaching her, Cadence’s legs collapsing and allowing her to fall to the stone below. Why can’t I find them? Why is it so hard to help someone?

She sat for a few moments, mind raging with thoughts of failure. Eventually she shook her head, freeing herself from the questions that weighed her down. I can’t give up now, they’re still out there, somewhere.

All that filled her ears was the shaky sound of her own breathing and the scratch of her hooves against stone as she rose. Lifting her eyes, she took in the moon above, painting the sky bright with all its children. I wonder if they can even see the moon.

A shiver ran along Cadence’s back and through her limbs at the image that sprang into her head. It was of Flo, staring at her with empty sockets where her sapphire eyes should have been. No, don’t think like that. Someone might have come to their rescue.

Yet no matter how many times she told herself the best had happened, the lump in her stomach and painful silence in her ears would not flee. I need to see them for myself, but how. How will I find them?

I’ll call for them. Cadence’s lips were moving as the idea came to her, willing to try anything to know the fate of the mysterious voice.

“Hello? Is anyone out there?” Her shout shattered the silence so harshly it hurt her ears. When no response came she called again, this time softer, as not to hurt her delicate senses. “Are you hurt? Do you need help?”

In the echo of her cry a whisper came to Cadence’s ears, bringing the hint of a smile of her lips. “I want to help you, just call and I’ll come for you.” Again she heard the response, barely audible above the fading sound of her own voice.

Leaping forward, Cadence moved towards the sound, calling as she went. “Don’t worry, I’m right here. You don’t have to be alone any longer.” To her surprise the response grew louder with each step, each widening the smile on her lips.

I knew I would be in time to save them, Cadence thought as walls of rock on either side were opening, her past doubts left behind. A smile was strapped to her muzzle as she stopped at the end of the walls.

A wide bowl opened up before her, its sides rising high into the sky. Now where is this one who’s been crying? Taking a step forward, Cadence jolted when she heard the sound of a hoof on stone coming from the other side of the bowl.

She lifted her eyes towards the sound with a warming smile on her lips, but her body prepared itself for the fight, legs bent and ready for quick movement. The base of her horn was filled with magic, difficult to see from the outside but if examined closely a blue glow would be found under her coat.

Despite how real the sound was to her ears, Cadence’s eyes could not find a source, only blank rock littered with shadows. I’m sure I heard a hoofstep. She narrowed her eyes, hoping that the added focus would reveal a lurker from the dark when combined with the light of her horn, but all she found was red-brown rock.

“Is anyone there?” She called out, a hint of fear shaking her voice.

The garbled and indiscernible reply that returned to her was shaking as well, it’s tone almost identical to Cadence’s.

Question furrowed her brow as she stepped forward. Are they trying to copy me?

Standing in the centre of the stone bowl now, Cadence called out again. “I’ve heard someone calling out for help the last few nights. Is that you? I want to help.”

Fright drove Cadence’s legs to lift her into the air as the garbled and poorly copied reply returned yet again, but this time from all side of her. Her wings unfolded as she swung her head around, expecting to see a sizeable group approaching her from all sides.

I’ll wait for them to come out, She decided, lowering herself into what appeared to be a relaxed position, but her folded wings were still ready for flight. Dim horn ready to light and fight.

A long moment passed, two, yet still Cadence had heard no sound of steps, no whisper of wings to signal the approach or departure of anyone. Only the metronome of her breaths filled her ears, always a half-beat ahead of what sounded like muffled breathing of whoever was lying in wait.

How are they so perfectly in time? Wanting to listen to the breathing of her mysterious company, Cadence stilled her breaths, only for the world around her to fall silent as well. A shiver ran along her spine at the lack of sound, her head flicking from side to side, expecting someone to jump out at her.

Her breathing restarted with a gasp, her echo timing the opening of their lips perfectly with hers. “Why are you doing this?” Cadence called out, her voice strained with frustration and weariness. Her head swum from the mixture of lost sleep and breath, her blurry eyes distorting her surroundings. “I only want to help, why do you have to hide and play with me like this?”

She felt tears welling up in the back of her throat, threatening to shake her voice and leak from her eyes. No, I can’t cry, I have to be strong for the one who needs help.

But you’re too late, they’re already gone, A small part of her whispered back. You’ve failed and let another one die, just like that guard, just like all those in the battle you slept through, just like Silvia.

“I didn’t know they would die.” Cadence’s breathy cry hissed inside the stone bowl, repeated back at her by the unseen mocker who shared the place. “I won’t let anyone down again. I’ll find whoever was calling for help.”

With the warmth of determination filling her chest and limbs, Cadence rose with one sharp movement, opening her wings as she did so. A leap and she was climbing towards the sky, high enough to survey every bit of the hole she had sat inside.

But you did fail another, The voice continued, its words like pins against the shield that was her burst of willpower. And now you’ve been hiding in a hole, scared of your own echo and shadow.

Her eyes glancing back down the bowl of stone below her, Cadence found what the voice said was true, every bit of it was empty. The realisation hit her like a boulder dropping from above, sapping the energy from her wings and sending her plummeting towards the ground.

The moment before she hit Cadence managed a flap, just enough for her shaky legs to take the rest of the impact. Tears were streaming down her cheeks before she realised they were forming, their warmth pooling underneath her muzzle, the only warmth left in her body.

“I’m so foolish.” Cadence allowed her legs to fold and her body to fall towards the ground, a small drop of her sorrow hitting the dust in time with her. “I thought I could save everyone, but I can’t.”

During their months of relaxation in Rockholm, Cadence’s mind had been overwhelmed with worry, worry over the past. How can I become a princess if I let all those dragons die, some of them right before my eyes. The thought had visited her often in the draconic city, and it returned to her now.

“What will Celestia think of me?” She whispered to herself, lowering her head to the ground, allowing the tears to fall freely from the tip of her muzzle. How can I be trusted as a princess when I can barely keep one city safe. I can’t even keep one dragon safe.

The tears leaking from her eyes continued to paint the stone below with wetness as pictures of those she had let down flashed through her mind.

“But think of all those you’ve saved.”

Cadence turned towards the voice to find no one but shadows behind her. “Shining?” She called out, longing for his comforting embrace, his hoof to wipe away her tears. When no response came she turned back to the puddle of tears she had made, like a stain of blood on the ground.

He always said that, didn’t he. A smile touched at the corners of Cadence’s tight lips at the thought of the stallion she loved. Even though I couldn’t save a few, there were so many lives that remained because of me.

The excited face of Flo crept into her thoughts, pulling her lips even wider. You saved her again and again, A voice from somewhere deep inside reminded her, bringing with it hazy scenes of Flo’s near misses. The times when a wave of blue magic had swept the danger away.

But you let her down as well, The other voice fought back, pushing a picture of Silvia’s still body into Cadence’s mind, Flo’s crestfallen face with it. The growing smile on her lips paused, the sickness in her stomach threatening to spread once more.

She knows that isn’t your fault. Soft and kind, the second voice brought one final image of Flo to the forefront of Cadence’s mind, the smile that had been on Flo’s lips the day she had seen her last. She’s happy, she doesn’t hold anything against you.

She doesn't, Cadence realised, the smile winning out and filling her muzzle, her wings spreading as she rose. Even if I’ve let some down, even if I will in the future. I shouldn’t stop trying, because the ones I do help matter the most.

Energy was buzzing through her limbs as she leapt into the air, wings catching the wind and pulling her higher. By the time Cadence was soaring through the sky all of the knots in her stomach had been loosed, her mind focused on one thing only, Shining.

The fading stars above encouraged her wings to beat faster, wanting to reach their camp before sunrise. Maybe I can get some sleep tonight. A blue glow caught her attention, filling her chest with a burning warmth and her still wet eyes with tears once more.

It’s only been a night, but I miss you so much Shining.

When Cadence’s hooves came to rest a few steps from the ethereal tent it took all of her willpower not to throw herself forward and wake him with a hug. He needs his rest as well. Folding her wings away, she took soft steps to Shining’s side before lowering herself to the mattress.

“Thank you Shining,” She whispered as she curled up beside him. “Your words helped more than you can imagine.

Light leaked through the cracks in Cadence’s eyelids, causing them to flutter open. Through the ethereal blue roof above her she could see the sky was darkening. It’s almost night again. Her head felt light, free from the tired weights that had distorted her thoughts the previous night.

The sound of paper rustling came to her ears as she tilted her head upward to find Shining’s back to her. A smile spread Cadence’s lips at the sight. Let’s see how good of a guard he is.

Rolling from her side to stomach, Cadence sprang upright before leaping at the unaware Shining, tackling him onto his side.

“Hey,” Shining’s head snapped back to find a grin wide on Cadence’s muzzle, the sight causing him to chuckle. “At least tell me next time.” Specks of pastry flew from his mouth in time with his muffled words. “I nearly choked.”

Planting a kiss on his lips, Cadence tasted apple. “Oh, sorry.” The excitement on her features faded somewhat, a hint of sadness joining it as she recalled the previous night. “I’m just happy to see you.”

Shining’s lips parted before pausing, confusion creasing his brow for a moment. “We just saw each other yesterday.”

“I know, but,” A heavy sigh left Cadence’s lips, her eyes looking past Shining’s shoulder and to the mountains bathed in orange beyond. “I thought a lot last night, and I wanted to say thank you.”

“For what?” Shining’s words were still slowed by the storm of questions swirling in his mind, each movement of his burdened by ten times as much thought. “Did I do something special last night?”

“Well, yes, and no.” Leaning towards the dumbfounded stallion before her, Cadence laid her lips on his once again. When she drew back her smile shrunk away, her eyes dropping for a moment before coming back up to meet Shining’s. “I thought a lot last night, about all those I let down in Rockholm, all those dragons that died because I couldn’t save them.”

“But think of-”

“All those I’ve saved,” Cadence interrupted, finishing what she knew Shining would say. “I know, you’ve said that so many times. That was what got me through last night.”

“Last night…” Shining’s breath escaped him as he recalled what Cadence had planned to do the previous night. “I guess you didn’t find whoever was calling out for help then?”

Cadence’s head fell, “No, I thought I did, but I ended up following my own echo.”

Stepping towards her, Shining placed a foreleg over the withers, pulling her close. “Don’t worry, I know we’ll find them when we get there.” He placed a kiss on Cadence’s cheek before looking up at the ever darkening sky. “Speaking of getting there, we should probably leave soon if we want to make it anywhere today.”

Lifting her head, Cadence nodded, a fresh smile on her lips as she dispelled the magical tent behind her and lifted her saddlebags onto her back. “Well, let’s get going.”

“Shouldn’t you-”

Before Shining could finish the crunch of pastry cut him off, Cadence giving him a smile filled with blueberries. “I can eat on the way.”

“Is this it?” His horn lit with blue, Shining bathed the open space on the mountain before them with light. The spotlight of blue caught a small fountain ahead of them, the only thing that discerned the place from another lifeless part of the mountain.

“Well, I can’t tell.” Turning her head from left to right, Cadence searched for any wooden doors or open caves that could be the entrance to Pido’s home. “I don’t recognize anything, but it looks like someone lives here.”

“Mmm.” Shining took a step forward, another, Cadence following at his side. “I wonder if anyone here is awake at this time?”

Glancing up at the moon, high in the sky with a sea of stars holding it there, Cadence shook her head. “I wouldn’t think so. We should find somewhere to set up camp till morning.”

Continuing to move through the open space, Shining searched for someplace to shelter under with his magic.

After walking the short stretch of land and finding none, Shining sighed, his legs heavy and body wanting sleep. “Why don’t we just set up our tent in that corner there? I’m-” A yawn cut him off, pulling a giggle from Cadence’s lips.

“Well, I can see you’re tired, so let me get everything ready, you just lie down.”

Shining planted a soft kiss on Cadence’s cheek before moving towards the corner in the rocky wall. With the last energy in his horn he formed an ethereal mattress barely large enough to catch himself as his legs gave way.

The smile on Cadence’s lips spread when she moved across to join and found Shining’s eyes already closed. “I should get some sleep as well,” She whispered to the now deaf stallion, gently removing both his and her saddlebags with her blue glow.

Keeping her horn lit, she stretched the mattress Shining lay upon so both of them could fit before forming their magical shelter overtop. As Cadence lowered herself down beside him she kept her ears pricked up, hoping to hear the cry for help that had fallen silent.

All that reached her ears was silence tainted by the slight ringing of the tent around them. I guess I really was too late. With a defeated sigh she forced her eyes closed, snuggling up close to Shining.

It’s like everyone on this mountaintop disappeared after I left. What if it was all a dream of mine? Cadence shook her head softly, dismissing the thought. Shining heard the cry as well, it must be real.

As she mulled the thought over, sleep seeped into Cadence’s mind, pulling the warmth of darkness down over her thoughts.

“Help!”

The sound sent a spark of fright along Cadence’s body from tail to snout, causing her wings to flare out, neck to straighten up and eyes to spring open. “Where are you?” She called out, holding her breath while she waited for a response.

Her lungs were hurting with want to breath before any sound came, Cadence’s chest heaving as she rose from Shining’s side, calling once more. “Hello?” Voice breathy, she took a step through the ethereal wall of their tent, desperately hoping to find someone outside.

“Do you need help?” Tilting one ear upward, Cadence waited for a sound, any sign of response. Time seemed to crawl by her, as if it knew her worry and was simply tormenting her.

When silence answered her call for the third time, Cadence sighed, moving back towards the tent. Maybe I dreamt it? It was as I was falling asleep after all. With heavy limbs she sunk down besides Shining once again, resting her head atop his back.

At least I can sleep easily tonight.

What Are You?

“Oooooh.”

The sound touched at the deepest parts of Shining’s sleeping mind, alerting his partially ingrained guard senses to the presence nearby. Want for sleep had more influence over his mind however, his eyelids struggling against his will to lift them.

Eventually he managed to open them enough to let the sun’s light leak in, most of it blocked by the form standing before him. “What?”

The form sprang back at his voice. “You talk? I’ve never seen food that talks.”

Rubbing at one eye with a hoof, Shining pushed himself upright with the other, careful not to disturb Cadence’s head atop his back. “Food?” A weak chuckle shook his chest. “I’m not food.” The growl of his stomach brought his attention to the need there. “But I sure am hungry.”

Lighting his horn, Shining glanced around the tent while a gasp came from the form before him. “You can make fire as well?”

Momentarily distracted from his wish to eat, Shining turned back to the creature standing in front of him. Another rub at his eyes brought a body of orange scales into focus, the dragon before him barely bigger than a foal. “Have you never seen a unicorn before?”

“U-ni-corn.” The hatchling sounded out the word slowly before shaking his head. “No, never. Is that what you are?”

A smile lit up Shining’s lips at the response. “Yes, and you’re going to love this.” His horn still lit, Shining glanced around till he found his saddlebags resting against the rocky wall. Blue surrounded the bags before he lifted them, taking a pie from the flap and biting into it.

When he looked back to the hatchling, Shining found his jaw hanging wide open, bright blue eyes popped out.

The hatchling’s mouth opened and closed like a goldfish for a few moments before he finally managed to produce one breathy word. “How?”

“Easy, I’m a unicorn. Almost every unicorn can do this. We call it magic.” Satisfied with his explanation, Shining took another bite of his blueberry pie, the pastry almost half-eaten.

“Where did you come from? When did you get here? Why did you come?” Eyes lit with excitement, the hatchling allowed questions to flow freely from his mind to his lips.

A bite of pie in his mouth, Shining swallowed hard before speaking. “It would take a while for me to explain all of that.”

The hatchling took a glance backward before placing his rump on the stone below. “Mum will never find me here. So I’ve got all day.”

Nodding, Shining finished the final third of his pie in a few bites before licking his lips. “Where did we come from.” He glanced to his side, watching the sleeping Cadence as he thought. “Do you know where Rockholm is?”

“No.” Shaking his head, the hatchling pointed a claw back towards the open space he had come from. “I only know about here, and all the lands towards the next mountains. What is rock home? Is that like a cave?”

A chuckle left Shining’s lips at the hatchling’s remark. “Rockholm isn’t a thing, it’s a place. A massive city past those mountains you can see.”

“Are you sure? Mum says no one live past those mountains.”

Sighing, Shining tried to contain another chuckle. He’s so naive, I wonder if I should tell him about everything beyond those mountains? He seems happy enough as he is. Looking back to Cadence once more, Shining nodded. I’ve got to wait for her to wake up. May as well pass the time.

“I’m sorry to say it, but your mum’s wrong. There’s whole world of other dragons past those mountains. Thousands and thousands of them.”

“Thousands?” The hatchling’s already wide spread even more. “You’re crazy. That many dragons could never fit in the same place.” Glancing backward, he shook his head at the open space behind him. “You’d have to put a hundred dragons in each house.”

“No, every dragon has there own home.”

“But where do they put them all?”

Rubbing his forehead with a hoof, Shining took a moment to construct and explanation from the things he could see. “You see the plain out there, going all the way to the next mountains?” The hatchling nodded. “Rockholm a little smaller than that, and covered in-”

“Rale?” A voice called out over the deserted town in front of Shining, the sound drawing the hatchling’s head towards it.

“That’s my mum,” He said, pushing himself closer to the rocky wall, trying to hide his orange scales in the shadow. “Don’t tell her I’m here, she wants me to fetch water.”

Nodding, Shining gazed out to the well where a blood-red scaled dragon was now standing, her blacker than shadow eyes scanning the rocks around her. “If you’re trying to hide this isn’t the best place, she’s going to see our tent easily.”

Rale shook his head. “She won’t come over, she’s too scared of things like this. Everyone in the town is.”

Still watching Rale’s mother, Shining saw her eyes find their tent and instantly widen, her now shaky legs stumbling backwards. Lifting his hoof, Shining grinned while he waved. I’m not that scary, am I?

Despite Shining’s best efforts, Rale’s mother’s lips parted and a piercing scream left them, causing him to wince. “Ghosts.” He heard her mutter before turning and dashing out of sight. Looking back to Rale, he found a small smile on the hatchlings lips.

“I told you. She jumps when she sees her shadow. If she sees something like you, inside this.” Rale waved a claw over the ethereal walls before him. “There’s no way she won’t scream.”

With question creasing his brow, Shining leant towards Rale. “Why weren’t you scared of me then?”

“I know that kind of stuff isn’t real, ghosts, spirits or whatever Pido calls them. I’ve never seen them so I think she’s making them up.” Rale crossed his forelegs, leaning back against the wall behind.

“Pido?” The name felt somewhat familiar to Shining. Is that the dragon that Cadence met up here. “Who’s Pido?”

“She’s a weirdo dragon who lives a bit down the mountain.” Frustration tainted Rale’s voice and twisted his lips as he spoke. “She has all these weird stories she tells about what’s making those noises at night and everyone believes her.”

Noticing the emotion overflowing from Rale, Shining couldn’t help but let a smile touch his lips. “What do you think of Pido?”

The frustration on Rale’s features fled, replaced with a smile that seemed it had been waiting a long while to be free. “She’s using her scary stories to make everyone do what she wants. It’s unfair.”

“It’s just over there.” A voice said from afar, drawing Shining’s eyes towards it.

He found Rale’s mother standing beside the well once more, this time with a sandy scaled dragon at her side. Both dragons turned their heads and met his watching eyes, a shiver running through Rale’s mother as she did so.

Glancing to his side, Shining found Cadence still sleeping. I guess I’ll have to talk to them alone. Gently, he slid her head from his back and onto the mattress below before standing. “Do you want to come Rale?”

Rale peeked out from the shadows he hid within before shaking his head. “No, if mum sees me with someone like you I’ll be in trouble. Sorry.”

The smile on Shining’s lips widened at Rale’s words. “No need to be sorry, I understand.” Turning away from the hatchling, he stepped from the tent, moving towards the already approaching sandy-scaled dragon.

When he saw Shining moving the dragon raised a claw, his grey eyes bugging out while he shouted. “Don’t move if you want to stay whole.”

Hearing the intensity in the dragon’s words, Shining stopped a few steps out from the tent. “I don’t want to fight you. All I want is to talk, I can explain everything.”

A gasp filled the air and the dragon took a step back when Shining’s spoke. “What are you?”

“I’m a unicorn.” Confusion creased Shining’s brow as he shook his head. Have these dragons really never heard of ponies before?

“Is that some kind of evil spirit?” Courage returning to him, the sandy-scaled dragon took another step towards Shining. “What do you want with our village?”

“Nothing, we’re just passing through. We came from Rockholm and we’re heading for the griffon lands. We don’t want to hurt you in any way.”

“We?” The dragon cocked his head slightly to the side. “Are you in allegiance with that spirit that has been tormenting our village for the past months?”

“No. I’m not a spirit.” Lifting a hoof, Shining sighed as he kneaded his head. What’s with these dragons and spirits? “Wait, did you say a spirit has been here the last few months? The one that calls out at night?”

“Why would I need to answer that question? I’m sure you already know of that spirit’s actions, being one yourself. Now leave this town, we have done nothing to deserve what your kind has done to us.”

The anger in the dragon’s voice caused Shining to take a step backward. “What happened?”

“Don’t stand there clueless,” The dragon’s wings were spread, his chest heaving with passion. “Your kind have killed so many, so many.” He lifted a claw to his forehead, limbs shaking. When he spoke next the fire had faded from his voice, his words a whisper. “My Nia, you took her from me.”

The dragon tried to take a step forward but his shaking legs could no longer could him. With outstretched forelegs he fell towards the dirt, Rale’s mother rushing forward to aid him. Her eyes were pinned to Shining as she helped him stand, her own body shaking with fear.

Reaching out a hoof, Shining pushed the insults from his mind. “Do you need any help? You’re shaking.”

Now standing, the sandy-scaled dragon met Shining’s eyes with anger once more. “Don’t come any closer. You’ve done enough harm just by being here.” The pair backed away slowly, both keeping their eyes on Shining.

Why do they think I’m a spirit? Shining thought as he turned back to his tent, taking slow steps towards it. When he got close his eyes moved to Rale, the hatchling still hiding in the shadows with wide blue eyes peeking out.

“Are you a spirit?”

Shining sighed. “No, I told you I’m a unicorn.” He moved through the ethereal wall of the tent, lowering himself beside Cadence once more. “But I would like to know more about these spirits that have been bothering your village. What have they been doing?” As he spoke Shining felt Cadence shifting at his side.

“Shining?” Came her tired voice before Rale could respond. “Is it time to wake up already?”

Eyes spreading wide, Rale leant forward at the sound of Cadence’s voice. “There’s another one of you?”

Shining kissed at Cadence’s mane before replying to her in a whisper only shared by the both of them. “You can go back to sleep if you’re still tired.” Feeling Cadence nod slightly, he allowed her head to rest against his side before lifting his eyes to Rale. “Of course there’s two, travelling alone would be boring.”

Looking from one pony to the other, Rale twisted his lips in question. “Is she your sister?”

Red sprang up on Shining’s white cheeks as he quickly shook his head. “No, she’s my, she’s a very special friend of mine. Now can you tell me what these spirits have been doing to your village?”

Rale opened his lips to ask another question, before thinking better of it and closing them tight, his eyes rolling into his head as he thought. After a few moments of the hatchling making thoughtful sounds, he spoke.

“No one tells me anything, mum says nothing is happening whenever I ask, but I can see. Dragons have been disappearing ever since Pido said that spirit arrived.” A shiver ran through Rale as the almost whispers of words left his mouth. “I don’t know where they’re going, but Pipa says they’re dying.”

“Pipa?” Shining’s brow creased with confusion at the somewhat familiar name. “Do you mean Pido?”

“No.” Another shiver ran along Rale’s back and down through his limbs. “I’d never go speak to Pido. Only stupid dragons do that.”

“Who’s Pipa then?”

The fear in Rale’s composure shrunk away, replaced with a smile on his muzzle. “She’s my best friend in the whole world. We can go see her now if you want.”

Shining glanced down at Cadence, lowering his lips towards her ear. “Will you be alright here by yourself?” Whether she nodded or simply shifted in her sleep he couldn’t tell, the movement of her head so slight.

Glancing up at the ethereal walls that surrounded him, Shining nodded. She’ll be fine, there’s no way anyone can get her in here. He looked back to Rale. “Sure, lead the way.”

With excitement obvious in his eyes, Rale sprang away from the wall he had been leaning against. “There might be some spots where it’s hard to get through, but this is the best way to go without mum seeing me.”

Skirting the outside of the tent, Rale moved towards an opening in the rocky wall beside it, barely big enough for Shining to fit through. The hatchling sprang through with haste and continued moving, not waiting to see if Shining was following behind.

Stepping from the tent and into the tight squeeze, Shining felt the rock scraping against his shoulders and rump as he eased through. I hope that was the tightest spot.

Following the opening was a much wider passageway leading into a turn. Shining managed to catch a glimpse of Rale’s tail as he dashed round the corner. Pushing aside the worry of getting stuck, Shining moved after him, the passageway providing just enough room for him to gallop.

As he rounded the corner, Shining found the passageway opened up somewhat, allowing a view of the climbing sun above before growing narrow at the end once more. Rale was already at the next passageway, easily slipping through into the shadows beyond.

“Can you slow down?” Shining called out to the disappearing hatchling. It’s times like these that I wish I could fly over the top.

Upon hearing Shining’s voice, Rale backed out of the passageway he was halfway down. He met Shining in the centre of the open area. “Sorry, I just can’t wait to show you to Pipa.”

Brushing the dirt off his shoulders with a hoof, Shining met Rale’s apologetic eyes with a smile. “I can tell, I just don’t want to get lost in tunnels like these.”

“Are you ready to keep going then?”

“Sure.”

With a wide grin spread across his muzzle once more, Rale dove back towards the far passageway, his pace not slowed one bit.

Shaking his head, Shining followed after the hatchling. Looks like I might get lost after all.

“This is where Pipa lives,” Rale said as Shining pulled himself from the last stretch of the tight squeeze he had endured. Looking to where Rale’s claw directed his eyes, Shining found a ledge stretching out before him, with the entrance to a cave at the end. “Come one, let’s go find her.”

Rale sprang forward, Shining with little to do but follow. After a few steps the wall to Shining’s right fell away, only a steep drop in its place. Looking out from the ledge he could see the glow of their tent below, the ledge overlooking the village.

While Rale raced across the ledge without fear, Shining stuck close to the wall on his left, leaning hard against it at times. With each step the ledge grew narrower, Shining’s stomach twisting itself into knots as he glanced ahead.

I’ll barely be able to fit one hoof on there, He thought, seeing the width of the dwindling surface of rock. Trying to forget the drop below him, Shining placed one hoof before the other, slowly inching his way towards the cave, towards his safety.

“Rale?” Shining called out when he was a little more than a leap away from the cave, the edges of his hooves hanging over air. “I don’t know if I can make this, I think I might go back.”

“The only way out of your problem is forwards,” The voice came from the shadows of the cave, too mature to be Rale’s.

Lifting his eyes towards the waiting stone mouth, Shining saw someone moving forward to join Rale at its edge. “You’re Pipa I guess?”

Pipa stepped into the sunlight with her head nodding, the sight of her causing Shining’s eyes to widen, his legs shaking as his mind lost focus. A well placed wing on Shining’s shoulder steadied him before he fell, its soft touch guiding him the rest of the way.

“What is a griffon doing here?” Shining couldn’t help but question once he was safe inside the cave, the white feathers that covered her head and neck filling his vision.

“Where I came from and why are not important at this moment.” As Pipa spoke Shining’s eyes moved across her body, taking in the white feathers of her wings and the gingery orange that covered the rest of her body. “What a pony is doing this far from his home, that is my question to you.”

“He wants to know about the fake spirits Pido always talks about.” Rale’s blue eyes were focused solely on Pipa’s golden pair, his grin wider than Shining had seen it all morning.

Shining nodded in agreement with Rale’s words. “That’s right, I was wondering if you could tell me about whatever has been calling out the last few nights,” The words of the dragon in the centre of the village came back to Shining. “Or the last few months.”

“Ah, this is no spirit you hear, but rather the bait of a far worse demon.” Pipa shook her head as she spoke, eyes looking past Shining’s shoulder and over the village, choosing to stop on a particular cave. “Pido.”

“Pido,” Shining repeated the name now well known to him aloud. There her name is again, it seems like these two have a reason to dislike this Pido. “What does she do?”

A shiver passed along every inch of Pipa’s body at Shining’s words. Tearing her eyes away from the village, she looked down to Rale. “It is not something I wish to repeat in front of the little one.”

Rale met Pipa’s sorrowful eyes with a stern pair. “You’ve told me lots of times before, I can listen to it again.”

“Yes, that is right Rale.” Pipa allowed a slow breath to leave her beak. “Sometimes the weight of Pido’s terrible deeds cause me to forget.” Looking back to Shining, she continued. “Pido uses a poor little pegasus to lure unknowing dragons into her home. The things that happen inside I have not seen, but I have heard screams, and watched as she carries the dead back out.”

“You mean she kills them?” Shining’s eyes were widening with each moment, his mind digesting Pipa’s words. “Why doesn’t anyone else in the town know about this?”

Pipa’s eyes fell away from Shining’s, finding comfort in the cave floor. “She holds all of their trust, they believe she is the saviour of the town, who keeps the monster at bay.” A breath left her beak, half scoff, half laugh. “They don’t know their saviour is the monster herself.”

“But, but,” Shining shook his head, unable to believe Pipa’s claims. “Why hasn’t anyone else seen her doing this?”

“Others have,” Shifting her gaze from the ground to Rale’s quivering eyes, Pipa sighed. “The moment they said a word against the demon, it came for them in the night. This little one knows the truth of this.”

Rale’s lips parted, as if he was going to speak, but he merely took a breath before shaking his head.

Moving closer to Rale, Pipa crouched low to the ground, cupping his face with a claw. “If it is too much of a burden to speak it, I do not wish to put you through the pain of hearing it either.”

“No,” Rale replied softly, determination in his eyes as he met Pipa’s. “I’m strong, I can listen to it.”

“Very well.” Rising once more, Pipa turned back to Shining. “This little one looked on as the demon dragged his father from their home. He tells me his mother would not listen when he shared the tale.”

“She said I was crazy.” Rale’s voice was barely a whisper, but it cut through the air with ease, so sharp it silenced Pipa. “She said, she said talk like that isn’t good for anyone.”

“So many have fallen in the same way as his father. I’ve watched each and every one.”

Seeing the emotion in Rale’s face and hearing his words had convinced Shining, his voice now hinted with frustration. “Why haven’t you done anything to stop her then? You could have saved all those lives.”

“If only it were that easy unicorn. I do not give Pido the name demon for any small reason, she can still your movement. How? I do not know, but to try to fight power like that is pleading for death.”

Shining’s shoulders fell as he sighed. “Then what can we do, just watch and wait till the whole town has been killed?”

A smile touched at Pipa’s beak, knowing in her eyes as she spoke. “I presumed the same until a few nights past. A unicorn with blue glowing bright from their horn managed escape from the demon’s clutches. Is this you?”

“No, but,” Shining’s eyes glazed over when he realised who Pipa was speaking of, Cadence. “I know who that was.”

Excitement sprung into Rale’s eyes as well. “Is it that other one who was with you?”

“Mmm,” Shining could barely contain his smile as he murmured assent. “You think she’ll be able to stop Pido?”

“Of that I cannot be certain, but of all I have seen, she has the best chance.”

“Leave us evil spirit.”

The voice barely scratched the depths of sleep Cadence’s mind was swimming in, yet it was enough to disturb the waters, bring her to the surface.

“If you do not leave we will make you do so by force.”

Again the voice came, shaking the bonds sleep had on Cadence’s mind, allowing her to feel the warmth of the sun on her coat. The slight breeze brushing against her mane.

“We gave you warning.” With the voice the movement of claws on stone could be heard, before the sound of scales colliding with magic filled the air. “This wall is harder than it looks.”

Finally, Cadence’s eyelids cracked open, her jaw stretching with a yawn as she lifted her head. “Shining?” She asked one of the two blurry forms standing outside the tent, a white foreleg rubbing at a similarly colored snout.

“Do not speak spirit.” The white blob dropped its foreleg to its side before straightening up once more. “Leave and no harm will come to you.”

As the form spoke, Cadence’s eyes found their focus, showing her the scales and jagged wings of the two dragons in front of her. Where’s Shining? Glancing around, alarms were set off in her head when she found no sign of her prince. “Where’s Shining?”

The white-scaled turned to the sandy-scaled one beside it, looking for guidance. “What’s shining? Does she mean the sun?”

Gritting his teeth, the sandy-scaled dragon lifted a claw and forcefully turned his white partner’s muzzle back towards Cadence. “Don’t try to reason with the spirit Aere, that will only get you killed.”

“What?” Sleep clearing from her head, Cadence realised the dragons were speaking about her. “I would never kill someone, you’ve got no reason to be scared. Could you tell me if you’ve seen another pony? He’s a unicorn, white-”

“Well will not answer questions from you spirit!” The sandy-scaled dragon shouted back, his chest heaving and forelegs shaking.

Turning back to the sandy-scaled dragon, Aere cocked his head. “Qui, isn’t she talking about the one who you cried in front of-”

A sandy-scaled claw silenced Aere, Qui’s eyes holding a hint of anger as he met Aere’s. “Do not give any information away to the spirit.”

Shaking her head at the strange behaviour of the dragon before her, Cadence couldn’t help but smile. Pido was a little weird as well, maybe everyone from this place is a little different? “So you’ve seen him? Where did he go?”

“I’m right here Cadence.”

Looking towards Shining’s voice, Cadence found his head poking out of a crevice in the nearby wall, the rest of his body soon following with a grunt. He moved past the draconic pair standing beside the tent and stepped inside.

“I’m sorry I left you alone,” He whispered, nuzzling at her neck. “I had to talk with someone.”

“Rale, get away from those spirits.”

Qui’s voice drew both Shining’s and Cadence’s eyes towards him. Slamming a claw against the side of the tent, he continued to call for Rale. “Come out of there before they kill you, just like they did to your father.”

Glancing around the tent, Shining found that Rale was inside its ethereal wall, sitting a short distance from the both of them. The hatchling’s features hardened as he shook his head. “No, they’re not spirits, they’re unicorns, and they’re nicer than you.”

Leaning past Shining, Cadence found the source of the young voice with her own eyes. “Oh, aren’t you such a brave little dragon,” She said, her voice of the same tone she would use when speaking with Twilight. “Is Rale your name?”

Turning away from the constant banging and pleading of Qui, Rale nodded at Cadence’s words, a grin filling his muzzle.

“Don’t listen to the spirit Rale, she will draw you to your demise.”

Cadence sighed at Qui’s words as she turned towards him. It seems like this dragon really is crazy. “Why do you keep calling me a spirit? Is it because of the magical tent?”

“Magical?” Qui breathed, stepping back from the ethereal wall his claw had rested against. “You ask why we call you a spirit then admit to possessing magical ability, your reason is right there.”

Confusion creased Cadence's brow at Qui’s words. “Well, I’m a pony, all ponies have magic in some way or another.”

“I do not need to know what type of spirit you are. All I ask is you return that innocent hatchling and leave this place.” Qui’s grey eyes were quivering as he spoke, staring hard into Cadence’s pair.

“Have you never heard of ponies before?” Shifting her eyes away from Qui’s stare, Cadence looked out towards the distant line of mountains that hid Rockholm. “We live a long, long way from here, but surely you know what a pony is?”

Qui nodded. “You’re all murderous spirits, the lot of you. I watched as one of your kind stole her away, there was nothing I could do. I could barely breath my chest was so heavy. Nia.” Hindlegs bending, he sunk towards the ground, choking back tears. “Why couldn’t you have taken me instead?”

The overflow of emotion caused Cadence to gasp. “I, I’m sorry for your loss, but it wasn’t me who took her from you.” Qui’s outpouring sparked memories in her mind, bringing back the cry of nights past. “Do you know anything about whoever was calling out for help a few nights ago? They did so all night.”

Lifting his eyes from the ground, Qui wiped away the tears forming there before pointing his claw at Shining. “That one asked the same question, why? I thought spirits like you knew the actions of your companions.”

“We’re not spirits,” Cadence assured, her voice soft, longing. “And I want to know about whoever was calling because I want to help them. I can’t sleep knowing someone so close could be in danger.”

“In danger.” Qui shook his head. “That crying spirit is the source of danger. One was lured in by its calls, but never again will anyone in this village be so foolish.”

He sounds almost like Pido. “So, your village is under constant attack from evil spirits?”

Qui’s features twisted with confusion as he heard Cadence’s words, as if he could not believe he had heard her correctly. Yet Aere answered for him. “That’s what Qui always says.”

Glad for the answer, Cadence allowed a small smile to touch her lips. “Is there any way I could help?”

His face so overcome with confusion, Qui’s eye twitched and head tilted to the side. sandy-scaled lips parted and came back together without a single sound leaving them, his head shaking slightly.

“Never.”

“Are you sure?” The hint of a smile on Cadence’s lips fled. “I can see you’ve had troubles with someone or something similar to us in the past, and you’ve lost much more than one should have to bear, but we’re not the same.” Leaning forward, she pleaded with her eyes as well as her words.

“I don’t want to hear your lies spirit.” Rising from the ground, Qui turned around, shaking his head as he walked away.

Aere glanced at the disappearing Qui before looking back to Cadence. “I know he doesn’t want to admit it, but if you could help in any way, he would appreciate it so much.”

“Well, I’d love to.” The smile returned to Cadence’s lips. “But you have to tell me how. I don’t know enough about the problem yet to help.”

“There’s one thing,” Aere replied with a lowered voice before turning to look over his shoulder. When he turned back he took a step closer, wide eyes meeting Cadence’s directly. “If you go-”

Focusing on Aere’s bright blue eyes, Cadence noticed something spark in them the moment he stopped speaking. Did his eyes just turn green? She couldn’t be certain for he backed away suddenly, as if a fire had suddenly erupted from Cadence.

“Don’t try to trick me you wicked spirits.” Aere’s lips twisted with a sneer as he spoke. “I know you don’t want to help. You only want to take every last life in this town.” Turning on the spot, he dashed away the same direction Qui had left, towards the well.

Looking up to Shining, Cadence found the same confusion she felt in his eyes. “Well, that was a little strange, wasn’t it?”

“Dragons around here are always like that.”

Expecting Shining to answer, Cadence was taken off guard by the higher pitch of Rale. “What do you mean?” She asked, turning towards him.

“Like how he just was, nice to you one moment and talking all about spirits the next. Aere, mum, Entum, but Pido’s the worst. She was the first one like that.”

Cadence nodded. “Yes, Pido did seem a little strange when I spoke with her, telling me to stay inside, away from the spirit. She wasn’t mean however, only a little crazy.”

“Pido.” Hearing the name brought Pipa’s words back to Shining’s mind. “I need to tell you something about her.”

Turning towards Shining, Cadence’s brow creased with worry at the urgency in his voice. “Did something bad happen to her?”

“No, she’s that bad happening to this village,” Shining said, Rale nodding along with his words. “That’s why everyone is afraid, because she’s been killing dragons and blaming it on spirits.”

Cadence’s lips parted to reply before the full force of what Shining had said hit her mind, stopping any words from leaving her mouth. Pink eyelids fluttered as she listened to Shining’s words over and over in her head. She’s been killing dragons.

Eventually she spoke, words soft and slow, as if she were checking each one. “What, did, you, say?”

“Pido, she’s dangerous.” Shining sat as the words left his lips, one foreleg moving to rest on her withers. “Pipa said that the night she took you into her home, you were lucky to leave. She said you should have died there.”

Cadence swallowed hard as the puzzle pieces that were Shining’s words filled in the gaps of her memory of Pido. A shiver ran down her spine as the crazed voice echoed through her head. You’ll have to stay here all night after all.

Was she really trying to kill me? Cadence shook her head when she recalled what seemed like an eternity sitting in darkness, Pido right behind her. No, if she wanted to she would have done it then.

“Cadence?”

Shining’s voice drew her from her thoughts, lifting her eyes from the ground towards his. “Yes?”

“Pipa said that Pido has some way to stop you from moving. Do you remember anything like that, and how you broke free from it?”

“Shining, I don’t think Pido is the killer this Pipa says she is.” Allowing a slow breath to leave her lungs, Cadence tracked through her memories one last time, making sure she was correct before continuing. “If she wanted to kill me there she had so many chance to, but she didn’t, and I never felt like I couldn’t move either.”

Brow creasing with confusion, Shining glanced at Rale and found a hint of frustration in the hatchling’s features. “Are you sure Cadence?”

“Yes.” Unable to help herself, Cadence chuckled. It seems like Shining’s gone as crazy as the dragons in this village. “I know what happened, but I don’t know why you’re suddenly so convinced Pido kills dragons. Who is Pipa?”

Looking up at the cave Pipa resided within, Shining pointed a hoof towards it. He lifted the other from Cadence’s withers to shield his eyes from the high noon sun. “She’s a griffon who lives up in that cave, you can see the whole village from up there.”

“Well, why don’t we go talk to her?” Cadence suggested, her belly growling as she rose. “After we’ve had something to eat.”

“If you what you say is the truth breath should no longer be in your lungs.”

Pipa’s words caused Cadence to pause and gaze over the rocky homes before her. The sinking sun caught her eyes as she did so, forcing her to turn away. Her gaze found Shining, sitting to one side of her at the mouth of the cave.

Meeting Cadence's wandering eyes, Shining saw a hint of doubt in the pink and his lips moved to her aid. “I think Cadence thinks that you’re mistaken Pipa.” The smile that spread across Cadence’s lips gave confidence to Shining’s words. “That Pido had so many chances to kill her, but didn’t.”

“This can not be.” A sigh left Pipa’s lips, hers eyes roaming across the village until they rested upon Pido’s door. “I have witnessed Pido’s killings time and time again, she lets no being escape. I would no longer be living if it were not for her lack of flight. This cave is my safety, my prison.”

“But, she has wings,” Cadence argued back, recalling the image of the suspended Pido as clearly as if the dragon were right before her.

“I have seen, they are impotent.” Pipa lifted one of her own wings into the air as she spoke, demonstrating her words with it. “The only task they can perform is a twitch, I can seen a few attempts at flight, but they were failures.”

No matter what I say, Cadence thought. It seems she is certain Pido is guilty. Maybe there’s only one way to know. Taking a deep breath, Cadence fought the fear trying to still her lips. “Well, we’ll have to ask Pido herself.”

Pipa’s wing snapped shut with a crack, her head turning towards Cadence. “This idea is madness. Luck may have been with you once, but it is not a reliable master. A visit paid to that demon will be the end of you.”

“That doesn’t matter.” Cadence stood as she spoke, forcing herself to take a step towards the ledge. “I’ve faced a monster of a dragon before, almost lost my head twice. I can’t sit here and make judgement about someone without giving them a chance.” Taking another step forward, she spread her shaking wings, threatening to leap into the air.

“Cadence.” Standing as well, Shining held a hoof after his princess, his voice full of concern. “I know you think there’s good in everyone, but like Pipa said, you might not come back from this one. Please don’t go alone.”

Hearing Shining’s words, Cadence half turned back to him. “Shining, I hav-”

“I said don’t go alone.” A smile spread across Shining’s lips as he took another step forward. “Let me come with you.”

Standing from where he had sat at the wall of the cave, Rale dashed towards Shining. “If you’re going, let me come as well.”

Cadence looked from stallion to hatching, taking in the eagerness of both pairs of eyes. A smile tugged at the corners of her muzzle as she did so. “Oh, you.” Breath left her lips as a burst, soon turning into a chuckle. “I would love if you can be there to help.”

Taking another step toward, Shining joined Cadence at the mouth of the cave before leaning into to plant his lips on her cheek. “A princess needs her prince to protect her.”

Rale followed Shining, standing beside the stallion as the pony pair embraced. Uncomfortable looking at their display of affection, he turned back to Pipa. “Are you going to come as well?”

“I can not,” Pipa replied with a shake of her head while slowly moving backward into the shadows of her cave. “To willingly walk into death, that is a fool’s path. I am no fool.”

Lifting a claw, Rale took after her step before stopping, his head turning back and eyes finding Shining’s. “Why is she so scared?”

Shining’s lips parted to answer, but he found no words on his tongue. So he turned to Cadence for an answer.

“Well,” Cadence allowed a breath to leave her lips and her eyes to wander the village below as she thought. Her brow creased when she saw Qui darting across the centre of the open space, both claws full of fabric. “Are those our saddlebags?”

Following Cadence’s eyes, Shining found what she said was true. The want to retaliate sent his hooves to the end of the ledge, body half-leaning over the drop below. “He’s taking all our food, we need to stop him.”

Stepping up beside Shining, Cadence closed her wings and crouched low. “Well you should get on, it’s only a small flight.”

With a nod Shining mounted her in the same way he always had mounted Cloud, not realising how different their bodies were. His hind legs hung awkwardly over the end of her rump instead of just above her pair.

Despite the strain on his forelegs to keep himself atop her, he nodded when she asked, “ Are you ready?”

“We’ll be right back Rale,” Shining called over his shoulder as Cadence’s wings opened. “We just need to get out bags back.” The last few words of his were torn away by the wind when Cadence leapt forward, gliding gently towards where she had seen Qui last.

She landed easily, able to take the weight of both Shining and herself with a bend of her legs. Shining climbed from her back the moment she closed her wings, both of them hurrying in the direction they had seen Qui heading.

Their steps soon lead them towards a cave where shifting shadows hid what lay inside.

Cadence halted at the entrance before looking to Shining, unease in her eyes. “Well, do we go inside? What if this is his home, it would feel strange going inside without him asking us.”

“He went into our tent and took our bags, all of our food in them.” Shining could feel his stomach clenching as he spoke. What if he eats all of Adicus’s pies? I’ll never taste one beautiful bit of pastry again.

“Mmm,” Cadence nodded as she lit her horn. burning the shadows out of existence with blue light. “We’ll need that food to keep travelling, but why would he take our bags?”

“I don’t know.” Shining’s head moved from side to side as he moved into the cave, Cadence at his side. “But he did think we were spirits, maybe he thought there would be something in our bags besides food?”

“Well,” A smile touched Cadence’s lips as she thought of Qui rummaging through stacks and stacks of pies until he reached a stack of papers stuffed to one side. “There is the itinerary, we need that so we know where to go.”

Still moving forward, Shining looked from the cave walls ahead of him to Cadence, shock in his features. “How can you think about the itinerary now? Our beautiful pasties have been taken and we may never see them again.”

The smile on Cadence’s muzzle grew when she heard Shining’s words. “There really are only two things you think about, me and food.”

Shining rolled his eyes into his head, thinking for a hint of a moment before nodding. “Of course, I have to keep focused on what’s important.”

As Shining’s voice fell into silence, another sound pricked at her ears from the cave ahead. “Can you hear that?” She whispered, dimming her horn. “It sounds like someone talking.”

Both ponies stopped walking and lifted an ear each, Shining managing to hear the voice after a moment of concentration. “Do you think it’s him?”

“Well, there’s only one way to find out. I hope we don’t scare him.” Cadence took a step forward, and lifted her hoof with intention of taking another, but a voice stopped her.

“I can hear you whispering. Who is it?” The voice was unmistakably Qui’s. Proud. but tainted with fear.

“It’s, uh, the ponies from before,” Cadence said as she continued through the cave, Shining still at her side. While she walked another light came to aid her blue against the shadows, a soft yellow glow coming from the twists ahead.

“Ponies.” The word held a question, as if Qui were trying to recall where he had heard it before. When he spoke again fear shook his voice. “Are you the spirits? Come to take your possessions back and leave the one who took them dead in the dark?”

“No, and yes.” Having now rounded the corner, Cadence could see Qui ahead, his sandy scales lit by a small fire at his side. “We would never kill you, but we do need our bags back. That food is all we have.”

“Why would spirits need food? Do you use it to lure dragons into your traps?”

Cadence’s lips parted to speak, but she realised disagreeing with Qui would get her nowhere. Instead of speaking she took a deep breath and silenced her horn, the fire beside Qui now the only thing casting shadows in the cave.

Seeing the blue light of Cadence’s horn wink out and her chest swell with breath, Qui grasped the bags and backed away. “What are you going to do spirit? Kill me? Eat me alive?” After a few steps he found his tail touching the wall behind, his only escape blocked by what he feared most.

Silence overcame the cave as the echos of Qui’s voice faded to nothing, only the occasional crackle of flame bringing noise to the ears of those around it. Shining watched Cadence as she thought, her pink eyes locked on the fire, following its movements.

“Just get it over with spirit, end this torture already.” Qui’s voice was as shaky as his limbs, each quake that ran down his hind legs looking like it would topple him.

“Nia?” Cadence said after silence drowned out Qui’s voice once more. “Who was she?”

“She was, she was…” A shiver ran through Qui’s forelegs, so violent the bags he held fell to the floor, some of their contents spilling out. “You took her from me, why?

Ignoring Qui’s question, Cadence continued to probe with her words. “Was she your wife?”

Anger flared in Qui’s features as he took a step forward. “I don’t have to tell you spirits anything. It doesn’t matter who she was, she’s,” He gasped, bringing a claw to his eye to wipe away the tears forming there. “She’s gone, because of you.”

“Your daughter? She was your only hatchling, wasn’t she?”

Qui’s eyes widened with surprise for a moment before anger narrowed them once more. “I said I don’t have to tell you horrible beings anything,” He said, taking another step forward as he did so.

“Well, I can’t imagine what it would be like to lose someone so dear to you, but you can’t keep living like this Qui.”

“Then kill me!” Qui winced the moment the shout left his lips, head turning away from the expected destruction. When he realised none came, he turned back to Cadence to find her still staring at him. “Why do you have to bring me pain like this?”

Taking another step forward, Qui was now past the fire, only a short leap from Cadence now.

Watching Qui’s approach, Shining felt his gut twisting with worry. What if he attacks her? “Cadence?” At his question she turned her head toward him, her eyes meeting his. Seeing the steadiness of her gaze, the knowing held there, Shining felt his stomach settle somewhat. I should still be ready though.

Qui noticed the shared look, his head swinging back and forth between Cadence and Shining as the pair both smiled. “What are you two planning? To torture me with these questions before you suck the life from me?”

Turning back to Qui, Cadence allowed her smile to remain. “We want to help you. However impossible to overcom-”

“You want to help me?” Qui screamed, his voice breaking into higher pitches as he took another step forward. “How can the ones who took my everything away help me? Can you bring her back?” Another step and he was within leg’s length of Cadence.

The simple word shattered any emotion that held Qui upright. His legs collapsed underneath him and he fell to the ground, shaking violently. “Nia.” A sob filled the air as he curled up tight, like a foal trying to sleep. “She’s gone, forever. What’s the point of even breathing?”

Closing the short distance between her and Qui, Cadence crouched beside him, her hoof reaching out to touch his shoulder. “She may be gone, but that doesn’t mean you have to die too.”

Qui’s eyes flicked open when he felt Cadence’s hoof against his scales. Sandy-scaled lips curled with anger for a moment, but soon faded into a frown. ”What’s the point of living without her?”

Hearing the hopelessness in Qui’s voice, Cadence felt a tear forming in the corner of her eye. What do I say to him? He’s lost everything that mattered to him, how will my words help?

“Why don’t you worry about yourself for a change?”

Shining’s voice brought a smile back to Cadence’s lips. Yes, you always know what to say in times like these.

“Worry about-” A choked sob cut off Qui, a claw lifting to wipe his wet cheek before he continued. “Worry about myself? I already have plenty of food and the well provides enough water. My home is the best in the village.”

“No.” Shining was sitting beside Cadence now, his eyes locked with Qui’s grey pair. “I don’t mean worrying about your needs. What used to make you happy in life?”

“Nia.”

The whispered name brought a sigh from Shining’s lips, his hoof lifting up to knead his forehead. “But before her, when you were a young dragon. What did you love to do?”

“I...” The hint of a smile touched Qui’s lips, the smallest spark of joy lighting in the back of his eyes. “There was something, but.” Any signs of happiness fled from Qui’s features when annoyance returned. “Why should I tell you spirits about this? It was the wasteful pastime of a hatchling.”

Rubbing her hoof gently against Qui’s tense shoulder, Cadence leant closer to the dragon, her voice a little more than a whisper. “Something that makes you happy isn’t wasteful. Even the smallest joy can keep you together, and without any you’ll fall apart.”

“But,” Qui paused to wipe the drying tears from his cheek. “How can shaping rocks with my claws make my life meaningful? It won’t bring Nia back.”

“No, nothing can, but it will help you.” Cadence sighed, her mind searching for words, some way to reach the hopeless mindset Qui held.

“What if Nia was still here?” Shining asked, Cadence thankful for his help once again, but confused by his words. “Would she rather see you like this, crying, no longer wishing to live?”

The smile on Cadence’s lips grew when she realised the motive behind Shining’s words, her eyes turning to Qui for a response.

Sandy-scaled lips parted, the shut once again, as if Qui was questioning his own thoughts. After a long moment of silence, he finally spoke. “No,” The smile that had previously touched at his lips returned, wider this time, the spark in his eyes bursting into a flame.

“She was always such a bright little hatchling,” Qui continued, his smile growing with each word. “If someone was ever down she would do everything to cheer them up. I think that’s why…”

Oh. Connecting the dots, Cadence felt her throat clench, her hoof that had been kneading Qui’s shoulder becoming still. “It’s a horrible thing that happened to her, but we can make sure it never happens again in this village. We can get rid of this evil spirit for good.”

“Why would you help? I thought you were spirits?” Qui’s voice was more confused than certain now, his eyes looking at the hoof Cadence had pressed against his shoulder. “Why am I not dead yet?”

“Well,” The smile on her lips so wide, Cadence’s cheeks hurt as she chuckled. “That’s because we’re not spirits. I told you when we first met, we’re ponies.”

“Ponies?” Qui’s brow creased at the word, a memory long forgotten. “I’ve heard someone speak about creatures of your kind, I always thought ponies were a myth.”

“No, we live far, far away, in a city called Canterlot. Do you never see ponies around here?”

Qui failed to answer, his eyes focused hard on the wall ahead of him, brow moving with thought.

“Qui?” Cadence asked, giving the dragon’s shoulder a soft shake. When another moment passed without his response, she shook again, harder this time. “Qui, is everything alright?”

“Asker!” Qui’s eyes lit up and a claw of his lifted as the name left his lips. “That’s, who, it was.” Voice softening with each word, his claw fell to his side once more, the momentary excitement fading from his features.

“Who was? Who are you talking about Qui?”

At the sound of his name Qui blinked, his head flicking towards Cadence. “What is it?”

“Well, you said something about Asker. Did something happen to him?”

With a heavy sigh, Qui nodded, his eyes sinking to the floor once more. “Yes, he was an interesting dragon, reading all sorts of books I thought were nonsense. He never told me where he got them from, but then I never asked. Losing so many dragons I barely knew makes me wish I spent more time with them,”

“Did the spirit take him as well?”

“Yes.” Another sigh left Qui’s nostrils before light sprang back into his eyes. “But you said you can rid this village of the spirit, didn’t you?”

“Well, yes.” Cadence turned to meet Shining’s eyes, the pair sharing a nod before she turned back. “But we don’t know if it is even a spirit yet. We were going to ask Pido about it before we saw you with our bags.”

“Ah yes, Pido.” Qui’s voice held a hint of fear as he spoke her name. “She says she’s encountered the spirit many times, and lived. It seems the experiences have left her short some sense, but I don’t know if she ever had any.”

“She knows about what’s been happening though?”

Qui drew a sharp breath, his brow twisting with thought as if he was picking his words carefully. “If you believe her, then yes, and to tell the truth, she is one of the few who have the bravery to talk about the spirit. She claims special powers however, it makes it difficult to believe the rest of what she says.”

“Well, we’re should get going before nightfall.” Gathering her hooves beneath her, Cadence rose. At the mention of leaving, Shining quickly dashed towards the spilt pastries, placing each one back in his bags with the care he would handle eggs. “Do you want to come as well?”

“Are you going to her home?” At Cadence’s nod, Qui continued. “Then I think I will, I have yet to see the inside of that cave.” He rolled onto his side before standing. Grey eyes followed the movements of Cadence’s and Shining’s magic as the packed their bags. “If you aren’t spirits, then what is that strange glow?”

Moving to stand beside Qui, Cadence couldn’t contain her chuckle. “Well, I know it might sound a little strange, but we call it magic. Unicorns can use it to do all sorts of things, such as picking up our bags.”

“Magic,” Qui repeated as he watched Shining tie down his flap with the blue glow before silencing his horn. “It truly is fitting of its name.”

With a few steps Shining soon stood on the other side of Cadence. “Okay, all the pies are safe. Should we get Rale before we go?”

Both the excitement on the hatchling’s features and Pipa’s warning came to Cadence’s mind at the same time. “Well, if Pido is as dangerous as Pipa said she is, then it would be best for him to not be there.”

“Pido? Dangerous?” Qui’s brow furrowed as he questioned Cadence’s words. “What makes you think Pido is a danger?”

“We’ll explain it on the way,” Shining said in time with a step forward. “We want to get this over with before night.”

The Art Of Execution

“Pido?” Standing at the still wide open entrance, Cadence called for what felt like the dozenth time. “Are you there Pido?”

“Maybe we should just go in? She might not be able to hear too well.” Shining took a step towards the cave entrance as he spoke, only to find Cadence’s outstretched foreleg blocking his path.

“No, it would be rude to go inside without her knowing, and without her home.” A shiver ran along Cadence’s back as she thought back to Flo’s recount of their intruders. The frantic search for what had been taken, and the uneasy sensation of insecurity. “Pido?”

“I’ll be-” The voice, a far higher pitch than Cadence remembered, stopped itself. A cough echoing through the cave before it spoke again, this time sounder much more akin to the memory Cadence had. “I’ll be right up, I was simply napping.”

“Oh.” Turning away from the door, took a step back. “We can go away if you want. I wouldn’t want to disturb someone’s sleep.”

“Yes g-” Pido’s voice halted once again, a low moan coming from inside the cave. “No, I love to have guests any time of the day. Please come in.”

Moving first, Cadence stepped into the dim cave, Shining’s hooves and Qui’s claws soon following. Once inside, Cadence saw the shadow of a dragon moving towards her from deeper within the cave, its claws closed around something.

With an easy breath Pido blew fire onto the black rock held in her claws before placing it in the centre of the room. Her eyes lit up when she saw Cadence. “Oh, it’s you. I’m sorry for what happened the other night, she was, I was quite scared.”

Lowering herself to the ground, Cadence nodded, recalling the frantic words of Pido from some nights ago. “Yes, you said that there was a spirit outside. That’s why we’ve come. We want to know if there’s anything else you can tell us about the spirit?”

Pido took a breath, her lips opening but closing a moment later, leaving Cadence wondering if it was simply the flicker of the flame before her. After some thought, she eventually replied. “What do you want to know?”

“Well, I don’t know how to say this best but,” Turning her head, Cadence met Shining’s eyes, hoping for him to help.

“We’ve heard that the spirit isn’t exactly what everyone thinks it is.” As the words left Shining’s lips as sigh of relief left Cadence’s. “Someone told us that the one taking the lives of every dragon in this village is you.”

“What!” Pido screeched, her voice many octaves above what it had been previously. “How dare the-” The anger that had momentarily been in Pido’s features fled, replaced with fear. “I’m sorry. I mean, why would they think that?”

The jaws of Shining, Cadence and Qui hung loose at Pido’s outburst, their eyes wide.

Cadence managed to recover first, but her lips seemed to stumble over any words she formed. “What, who, you. What did you say?”

“I said, why would they think that?” Pido replied, her voice showing no signs of the frightening fury it previously held.

Did I imagine that? Turning to look at Shining and Qui, Cadence found shock still in their features. Reassured the few words from Pido’s lips were not a conjuring of her mind, Cadence looked back to the dragon in question.

“No, I mean before that. You said, how dare they, and you seemed so, angry.”

A smile spread across Pido’s muzzle as she cocked her head to the side. “Are you crazy.” She giggled, the lighthearted sound only confusing Cadence more. “I remember saying anything like that, what does that mean anyway? How dare they?”

Flicking her eyes from Shining to Pido and back, Cadence found her mind was swimming in thought. No matter how she tried to find a reason for what she had just witnessed, only more questions came.

“Pido, that wasn’t you speaking?” A shudder ran up Qui’s body as he spoke. “That can’t be you, in all the time I’ve heard you speak, nothing close to those words has come out.”

Seeing the confusion growing in Pido’s face, Shining held up both of his forelegs. “Why don’t we just forget it? It’s clear she has no idea what you two are talking about.”

Qui’s lips parted to protest before reason overcame horror in his mind. “You’re right, I have seen this one other time with Aere. An hour of questioning and I finally concluded the outburst had been my imagination, but this…”

Still watching Pido’s features closely, Cadence saw annoyance flash into the dragon’s eyes for an instant before disappearing. Or am I simply seeing things? “Yes, we must have imagined it.” Despite her best efforts, she could not conceal the doubt in her voice. “What were you saying Pido?”

“I-” A snort of laughter left Pido’s nostrils, her head bowing forward as she giggled. “Are you three playing some kind of trick on me? You all look so funny.” Another round of laughter overcame her, shaking her whole body from tail to snout.

“Yes, that’s right.” Cadence felt herself smiling as well, the overflowing joy from Pido contagious. “We were playing a joke, but about the disappearing dragons. Someone told us you’re the killer.”

Concern overwhelmed the laughter inside Pido, showing in the lines forming on her brow. “But why would they think I’d so something so horrible? I just want to help everybody.”

“Well,” A sigh left Cadence’s lips. It feels like I’m asking the wrong dragon. She seems so different from when I last met her. Thinking back to that night, she recalled the borderline madness in Pido’s voice, like the ravings on one not sane compared to the innocent foal Pido was now. “Do you know anything about the spirit that could help us stop it?”

“Hmm.” Pido rolled her eyes up into her head, tapping a talon against her cheek as she thought. “No. I don’t think there’s any way to stop it.” The smile on her lips and joy in her eyes did not match the words that came from her mouth.

It’s like she barely knows the spirit exists at all, Cadence thought, allowing another sigh to leave her. “We’ll leave you the-”

“Can we take a look around your home?” Shining butted in, much to Cadence’s shock.

Placing her hoof on his, Cadence drew Shining’s eyes to hers. “Shining, don’t be so rude.” Turning back to Pido, she apologised with a nod. “I’m sorry Pido, you don’t have to show us if you don’t want to.”

“No, I would love for you to see my cave. It’s not the nicest of places, but it’s home.” With a wide smile still on her muzzle, Pido rose and picked up the burning rock in her claws. “Just follow me.”

Shining and Cadence shared a look, both of them surprised at Pido’s willingness. “Well, we can’t refuse your offer,” Cadence said, standing as well, Shining and Qui following.

Seeing everyone was standing, Pido turned and headed into the depths of her cave, talking as she went. “We were just in my welcoming room, it’s usually messy because of all the dragons I have inside.”

As they moved from the first room into a narrower passageway, Cadence felt her hoof kick on something, almost tripping her if not for Shining’s steady foreleg. “Thank you.” She kissed him on the cheek as he lifted her back upright.

“I’m always glad to help my princess.” Lighting his horn, Shining directed the blue glow at the floor, searching for the obstruction. Three deep gouges ran along the stone floor beside Cadence’s hoof, forming a small hole at their midpoint. The stone around the hole was much darker than inside the hole itself, like it had been dug recently.

“Watch out for this hole Qui, you don’t want to trip as well,” Shining warned.

Halfway down the passageway already, Pido turned back to wait, an apologetic smile forming on her muzzle. “I’m sorry for that, some of my guests are rather wild, and I forget to clean up afterwards.”

Looking at Qui, Shining saw his lips open, brow creased as if he had a question on his mind. “What is it Qui?”

“Nothing important. I simply forgot to do something.”

Once everyone was following again, Pido continued to move forward, her voice so cheery it seemed to make the darkness a little lighter. “And now we’re coming into my kitchen, I’m sorry it’s still a little messy as well. I haven’t cleaned up after lunch.”

The rank smell of flesh crept into Cadence’s nostrils as she moved forward, wetting her eyes and forcing her to turn away. “Sorry,” She managed to choke out as she lit her horn, blocking her nostrils with magic. “I can’t stand the smell of dead things.”

“Oh no, I should be the sorry one.” Moving towards the benches carved of stone, Pido held the fiery stone in one claw while scooping everything into a stone bowl with the other.

Out of the corner of her eye Cadence caught a flash of a glistening red slab, similarly colored strings hanging from it. Her eyelids squeezed shut at the sight, sickness brewing in her stomach.

“Okay, it’s all gone,” Pido called, her voice sounding as if it were in another room. “Sorry about that.”

Slowly opening her eyes, Cadence noticed a claw-sized scar along the wall before her, just like the hole she tripped on it was lighter than the rock around it. Dismissing the thought, she turned back to the room, glad to see the benches clear. “No, I should have realised what would be in here.”

“Why don’t we keep going, there’s a room I really want you to see.” With a small skip in her step, Pido moved into the next passageway.

Following the dragon, Cadence kept her horn lit, its light picking out more scratches on the walls of these next passageway, these in rows of three.

“Down that way is where I sleep.” Pido pointed her claw down another passage that came off the one they were on. “And the next room is the best room of all.” She made to turn away, but Cadence’s voice stopped her.

“Well, what’s in it?”

“It’s a surprise, but I know-” The words coming from Pido’s mouth ceased as a violent shiver ran through her body, features twisting and eyes widening with fear for a moment. Joy soon covered the fright up as the shiver passed, her smile returning. “You’ll love it.”

Stepping forward, Cadence placed a hoof on Pido’s shoulder. “What’s wrong? Did something happen to you?”

Cocking her head to the side, Pido replied with a smile. “What are you talking about? Nothing happened.”

Looking back to Shining, Cadence saw his features contained the same concern she felt. It’s like before, she can’t remember what happened. “Well, let’s keep going then. Show us the surprise.”

With a nod, Pido turned and continued forward, humming merrily to herself.

Cadence stood in her place, allowing Shining to squeeze alongside her in the tight tunnel before whispering in his ear. “What do you think is wrong with her?”

“I don’t know,” Shining whispered back. “It’s like she really has lost her mind.”

“Are you all coming?” Pido had turned back to wait for them, a grin still on her lips. “I wouldn’t want you to miss out on the surprise.”

“We’re coming,” Cadence called ahead before turning her lips back to Shining’s ear. “We can talk about it later.”

A few steps and Cadence easily caught up with Pido, Shining and Qui close behind. The four continued through the cave, their way lit by the blue glow of both Shining’s and Cadence’s horns, and the fire in Pido’s claws.

Sensing the passageway had been going for some distance, Cadence glanced backward to find the room behind them lost in the bend. “When does this tunnel end?”

Pido froze in place the moment Cadence stopped speaking, her body shaking even more violently than before. Body still shaking, she turned her head back to face her company, fear alive in her wide eyes and quivering lips. “G-”

A smile cut off whatever Pido had been about to say, the shaking stopping and joy returning to her as it came. “Are you ready for your surprise?”

“Well, was that it?” Cadence questioned, her stomach feeling sick from the pain she had just seen Pido in.

“No crazy, it’s just up ahead, come on.” Turning away from Cadence, Pido continued through the passageway, so full of joy she was almost bouncing.

Before she could take a step forward Cadence felt Shining’s breath in her ear. “I think we should leave now Cadence, I have a bad feeling about this.”

Glancing back at him, Cadence couldn’t hide the concern on her features. “No, she looks like she needs help. I need to talk to her more.” Without waiting for a response she followed Pido’s steps, heading deeper into the cave.

Shining took a deep breath before continuing as well. I’ll give it one last chance, but it looked like she wanted to tell us something, something terrible. As he stepped forward, he realised he could not hear the sound of Qui’s claw behind him.

Flicking his head back, Shining’s saw his ears told the truth. He chose well. Turning back to the tunnel ahead of him, she rushed after Pido and Cadence, ignoring the warning of his gut.

“-surprise is right down there.” Shining managed to catch Pido saying as he rejoined them, her claw pointing to a wooden trapdoor in the ground.

“Down there?” Confusion filled Cadence’s voice as she looked carefully at the trapdoor. The stone that bordered it was much lighter than the rest of the floor, setting of a spark in her mind. “Did you dig this recently.”

Pido opened her lips to reply, but nothing came out. Her face was almost frozen, only slight twitches around her eyes and lips showing it was not completely still.

“Pido?” Cadence waved a hoof before the dragon’s eyes, hoping she would come back. “Are you there Pido?”

As the echos of Cadence’s words faded, silence joined the three, only broken by the ringing of magic and crackling of flames.

Turning back to Shining, Cadence could not contain the fright in her voice. “What do you think happened to her?” Without a word, he simply directed her eyes back to Pido with a hoof.

Waves of shudders were running up and down the Pido’s body, so wild it seemed as if her legs would give out underneath her. Yet through it all her lips moved, albeit slowly.

“Go,” She managed. “Leave this cave, leave this village. You’ll die, she-”

The wide grin returned the moment the shaking left, seeming almost sinister now. “Don’t worry about what I just said, sometimes I go a little crazy myself.”

“Pido, what did you mean when you said we’ll die? How? Why?” Cadence made to step forward, but Shining’s foreleg held her back, his voice speaking over the joyful tone of Pido.

“We need to go now Cadence, it isn’t safe here.”

“But, what about Pido?”

After a thinking for an instant, Shining replied. “Grab her with your magic and bring her with us, we want to get away from whatever this surprise is.”

With a nod Cadence surrounded the confused looking dragon with blue, the confusion twisting into rage as Pido realised what was happening.

“Put me down,” She screeched, writhing in the air as Cadence hurried after Shining, the pair of them leaving the cave with her floating behind. “I won’t just kill you, I’ll force you to eat each others flesh if you don’t put me down now.”

Shining breathed a sigh of relief when he caught sight of the cave exit, the sunlight streaming inside quickening his pace. “We should get her back to the tent,” Shining said once Cadence also stood at the exit to the cave, Pido still held behind her. “Quickly.”

As they raced through the town Shining managed to catch the low hum of voices underneath the sound of Pido’s screams, now calling for help instead of threatening with death. Coming into the centre of the village, where the well stood, he saw many dragons grouped around Qui.

Every eye in the group was directed at them, some filled with wonder, and others anger, but most held fear. “What are you doing with her ponies?” Qui called out as they drew closer, taking a step as if to block them.

Already past the crowd by the time Qui had finished speaking, Shining glanced back to make sure Cadence was still following. Her brow showed lines of strain but her lips held a smile. “We’re going to help her.”

Now beside Cadence, Shining continued to move towards their tent with her, the hum of voices trailing at a slower pace.

Cadence pushed Pido inside first before stepping through the ethereal walls herself, Shining soon following. The moment Pido’s body was completely enclosed by the magical tent, her screeching stopped, the movement of her body stilling.

The hum of voices ceased at the same time, every dragon waiting, watching, wanting to know what was happening.

“Pido?” Cadence lowered the now still body to the ethereal mattress below before stilling her horn. “Pido?” Is she still alive? “Pido, can you hear me?”

“Who is it? Please, leave now, she’ll kill you if you go down there.” Eyes snapping shut, Pido curled up into a ball upon the mattress, her whole body shaking.

No voice filled the air for some time, everyone watching the shivering ball of black scales. Eventually Cadence spoke. “Pido, it’s all right, she, she can’t hurt you in here.”

“Don’t say that, she’ll hear you.” Ragged and uneven breathing was mixed between Pido’s words. “She’ll hear you and everyone will be gone.”

“Who is she Pido?” Qui asked from outside the tent, his voice half full of question, half fear.

“The spirit, she, she,” A shiver ran through Pido, Cadence feeling the shaking run through the mattress below. “She won’t like it if I say anything else. Bad things will happen.”

Lifting a foreleg, Cadence moved her hoof in slow strokes along Pido’s back, hoping to calm the shaking dragon with the touch. “You’re safe here Pido, safe from anything or anyone who wants to hurt you. You don’t have to be scared any more.”

“I’m never safe, never.” Pulling her claws up from her chest, Pido clutched at her head with them. “She’s inside my mind, no way to get her out. I’m hers, forever. No one can escape.”

“She’s clearly mad.” The voice sprang forth from the the crowd and with it a dragon.

“Aere?” Qui turned towards the dragon with question still in his eyes. “What do you know about all this?”

Aere’s features twisted with thought for a moment before returning to their previous confident state. “I know little of this dragon and what has caused this, but listen to what she is saying. The spirit is inside her head? It’s madness.”

A few murmurs of agreement rang from within the crowd, yet Qui shook his head. “Of all the absurd claims I have heard in my life about spirits, this is not one. Spirits possessing bodies is some well known to be within their power. If only Asker were still here, he would know how to handle times as strange as these.” His last words were said quietly, as if to himself.

“You need to stop living in the past Qui.” The new voice belonged to Rale’s mother, strained with worry. “You need to deal with this crazy dragon right here, she’s a danger to everyone in this village.”

“Atigo?” Qui turned his head to the new speaker, the question on his face twisting to confusion. “This isn’t like you, you’ve always been a friend to Pido have you not?”

Atigo’s eye twitched and lips curled, a slight growl coming from the depth of her throat, as if she were in pain.

Watching the scene unfold, Shining’s mind churned, placing every detail into place with hopes of solving the problem. Only one thing was missing. “Pido, what was down that trapdoor? The one you were leading us to.”

“She was,” Pido’s voice was half-choked with tears by now, Cadence’s free hoof moving to wipe them from her cheeks. “She wanted to take you as well, like she took those two, like she took others in this village.” A black-scaled claw lifted to point towards Atigo and Aere.

“What do you mean, take them?” Shining continued with slow words. Should I really keep asking her questions? She seems so hurt, maybe she needs to recover first?

Despite his doubts, Pido answered with her shaking words. “She wanted to get inside your heads. Use you like she used me.” Pido choked back a sob. “She used me, she used me.”

Qui turned away from the shaking mess of black scales towards the two freshly accused dragons. Feeling the pressure of Qui’s eyes and knowing his thoughts, Aere protested.

“You can’t think anything she say is true, can you?” Anger had leaked into his features by now, into his voice as well. “She’s a mad dragon trying to lay the blame on others.”

“It is mad to think as I am now, yet it would explain so many things over the past few months, ever since the spirit started tormenting our town.” Qui drew a sharp breath and wiped at the corner of his eye with a claw, suppressing the sorrow inside. “There are times when you aren’t the Aere I’ve always known, like someone else is speaking for you.”

Before Aere could answer, Cadence lifted her voice. “I know it’s frightening having your friends under this spirit’s control, but arguing with them won’t help, we need to stop this at the source.”

Cadence rose from where she stood, Shining with her. “We need to find out who she is. Hiding in Pido’s home.” The pair stepped from their tent only to have Aere move to stand in their path.

“How can we trust two ponies with this? If anyone should go it will be a few from the dragons standing here.”

Face to face with Aere now, Cadence recalled a question she had from before. “Qui, what color are Aere’s eyes?”

“Blue, why do you ask?”

“Well, they’re gree-” Cadence gasped as the color of Aere’s eyes changed, from a deep emerald to a pale sapphire, their owner drawing a breath as well. “Aere, are you there?”

“How did I get here?” His eyelids fluttering, Aere glanced around, question clear on his face. “Why am I so close to you?”

Whoever it was, they’re gone now. Cadence felt a smile forming on her lips, yet worry was still held in the crease of her brow. “Aere, what do you last remember?”

“I was in the crowd.” Aere rubbed his head as he spoke, turning back to the group of dragons behind him. “Now I’m here, did something happen?”

Coming up alongside Aere, Qui placed a foreleg over his shoulders. “The spirit has been in control of you I assume, speaking against the two before you. It is good to have you as yourself again.”

“What did I say?”

“You were calling Pido mad,” Qui answered, joy clear in the smile on his lips. “That a spirit possessing her was absurd.”

Aere’s eyes widened at Qui’s words. “Why me, why was I the one who was taken over?”

“She, I.” The shaky words came from the shivering Pido, who now sat upright, watching the crowd with teary eyes. “You visited me, and she made me, made me take you to her. I didn’t want to but she, she forced me.”

Turning back to Pido, Cadence felt herself smiling. “Don’t worry yourself Pido, no one will blame you for doing things you couldn’t control. You should rest while we sort the spirit out.”

The pony pair made to step past the crowd once more, only to have Qui stand in their way this time. “When you encounter this spirit, what is it you’ll do?”

Cadence’s lips parted to answer, but only a sigh came out. Seeing this, Shining answered for her. “We don’t really know, but we will do our best to stop whatever this spirit is. Hopefully once we are done you will never have to worry about it again.”

Nodding, Qui moved from their path. “I do not understand why I am doing this. Trusting the fate of this village with two strange beings I thought only this morning were a danger. Good luck.”

“We don’t need luck,” Shining replied with a smile, both he and Cadence moving towards Pido’s home now. “The power this one here has is greater than anything you’ve ever seen.”

“What do you think this spirit actually is?”

Cadence’s voice filled the air as she and Shining moved from the first room of Pido’s cave into the passageway beyond.

“I don’t know.” Shining was leading, the light of his horn picking out every detail with blue as they moved forward. “But it must have magic of some kind, to be able to control dragons like that.”

“Do you think it will be able to control us?” They were in the second room now, the faint smell of flesh still hung in the air, but not enough to choke the two. Apart from the ring of their horns, the cave was deathly quiet, as if lying in wait to surprise them with some horror.

“Once again, I don’t know.” They were within the next passageway now, the tension in Shining’s stomach building with each step. “But I hope not, if it could somehow turn us against each other.” A shiver ran down his spine at the thought.

“Well, that would never happen.” Squeezing alongside Shining in the tight passageway, Cadence laid a kiss on his lips. “We love each other too much to ever fight like that. Even if it did have control, I know our love would be stronger.”

Returning the kiss, Shining nodded. “You’re right, nothing could ever turn us against each other. We should keep moving though, the longer we take the longer this spirit has mess with the minds of those outside.”

Turning away from Cadence, Shining continued down the tunnel, past the exit to Pido’s sleeping quarters and towards the trapdoor at the end. Shining drew in a gasp when he stepped into the room.

“It’s open.”

“Does that mean its expecting us?” Cadence suggested at a whisper, so her words would not fall on unwanted ears.

“Maybe.” Taking another step forward, Shining leant over the pit of shadow, his horn doing little to reveal what lay inside. Yet he could make out a few steps below. “Or maybe its no longer here. The spirit could be trying to lure us in there and trap us.”

“Well, what if it is hiding down there? We can’t let it control this village from inside the cave.” Cadence could feel the concern straining her voice, fresh memories of Pido’s pain at the forefront of her mind.

A deep breath filled Shining’s lungs before he released it slowly, his thoughtful eyes focused on the wall the whole time. Once it had finished he inhaled again before speaking. “Then I’ll go down and check, you sta-”

“No!” Pressing her hoof to Shining’s lips, Cadence cut him off. “You can’t go down there by yourself. You’re not…” Her voice trailed off when she saw the confusion in his eyes.

“I’m not, what?”

Biting her lip, Cadence lowered her eyes, staring at the floor as she spoke. “You said it before, I’m the only way we’re going to beat this spirit. If you go alone she’ll take you, as Pido said.”

Shining opened his mouth to respond before realising the truth in what she said. Stretching out a hoof, he lifted Cadence’s chin so her eyes met his. “You’re right, if anyone should face this spirit, it’s you. I’ll make sure we aren’t trapped.”

Stepping aside, Shining gave Cadence room around the hole. Stepping forward with her horn lit, she bathed the inside of it in blue. “There’s quite a drop. can you help me down?”

“Of course.” Observing the drop himself, Shining lowered his belly to the ground. “Although maybe you don’t need me, if you lie on the ground you’ll be able to slide in I think.”

“I’ll try that.” Mimicking Shining, Cadence lowered herself till she was lying down, hooves dangling over the edge of the hole. She moved forward bit by bit, until she could touch the first step below. “There, I made it.”

“Good, now be careful down there, I don’t want you to get hurt.”

Cadence could hear the worry in his last words, the pain that Shining’s wild imagination was causing him. It filled her stomach with guilt. I would feel the same way if he was the one coming down here. One of us has to make the sacrifice.

Like the passageways before it, the staircase was a tight squeeze for Cadence. Would both of us have been able to fit down here? She cast the thought aside, and took the first step forward, stomach filled with angry butterflies.

Blue light allowed her eyes to walk to the down the staircase till it stopped, Cadence unable to see past a turn.

“What can you see?” Shining called from above, his head poking into the tunnel.

“Well, nothing but stairs right now, it looks like it keeps going however.” Cadence glanced back at Shining, holding his eyes for a moment. “I’ll see you in a little while.” Turning back to the stairs, she continued downward.

“I’ll be waiting for you. I know you can do this.”

Shining’s words in her ears, Cadence rounded the corner tentatively, unsure of what her blue glow would reveal. She’s going to try control me, how do I stop it? Unable to bring any plan to mind, Cadence took the final step, hoping Shining’s suspicion had been correct.

What her eyes found brought a sigh of relief from her lips, and settled the squirming of her stomach, but only for a moment. The empty cave sent her mind into a frenzy of thought. If she’s not here, then is she up there with Shining?

“Shining!”

“Cadence!”

Both ponies called out in the same moment, both voice filled with fear.

“You need to get back up here, I can hear something moving in the cave.”

Cadence heard Shining’s horn light, his hooves take a step or two across stone. A cackle filled the air an instant after. “Say goodbye to your lover.” The words were smug, dripping with confidence, as if she knew Cadence would never see Shining’s face again.

With Shining’s groaning in her ears, Cadence rushed back up the tight steps, calling out the whole way. “Don’t give into her Shining, our love is stronger than this, remember?”

“Hah! You think love, such a weak emotion, can win out against the fear that fills every ounce of his body?” The cackle rang through the air again, so sickening, Cadence felt the want to retch in her throat. “He’s the one locking you away.”

Around the corner now, Cadence could see the outline of the hole, lit by the glow of her horn. Yet with every step she took the hole shrunk, the trapdoor coming down to close it. The wood slammed down a moment before she reached the top of the stairway.

Seeing the slab of wood close in her face, knowing who had done it, Cadence felt her legs give out underneath and allow her to fall to the steps below. Shining, slammed the door on me. She heard the sound of a heavy rock on wood from above. And locked it shut.

She felt the guilt returning to her stomach as the light of her horn died away. I should have let him go down. It was so obvious she wasn’t in there, but would I have even been able to stop her? Releasing a heavy sigh, she shook her head. But at least he wouldn’t be under her control.

Taking in a deep breath, Cadence lit her horn once more, if only to see her tears forming spots on the stone. I thought our love would be stronger? Celestia always said it was the strongest emotion of all. She wanted desperately to curl up and cry herself to sleep. What’s the point of doing anything else without him?

Sobbing echoed around her, her only companion in the tight blue tunnel. What would Shining do if I was the one captured? Cadence’s mind sprung to life with an image of Shining bursting forth from the trapdoor before racing down the tunnel and breaking her from the spirit’s control with a kiss. I can do that too.

Brushing her tears aside, she stood and felt her horn collide with the wood above. “Ouch,” She winced, lowering her head while she rubbed at he sore spot. After a moment of recovery, she focused her magic on the trapdoor, lifting with only a slight strain.

Hearing the rock slide back and collide with the wall sent the warmth of encouragement surging through Cadence’s body. I can do this, I can rescue him. Lifting her head, she lit the cave above with blue. Now how do I get out?

The ledge was level with her eyes. Maybe I can climb up? Rearing backwards, she placed both hooves on the ledge and tried to pull herself up. Yet her legs were too weak, or body too heavy, either way all she managed to do was strain her muscles. I need to be higher.

An idea sprung into her mind, causing Cadence to smile. I can use my trap as an escape. Reaching out with her magic, she grasped the boulder that had previously secured the trapdoor and lifted it into the tunnel with her. By stepping upon it she was able to get her chest upon the ledge, and eventually wiggle her way up. No I need to kiss him.

Cadence moved through the passageway before her, past the tunnel to Pido’s bedroom, past her still stinking kitchen and into the final room. The sunlight streaming inside lifted her spirits. I’ve almost got him back.

As she got closer to the exit the louder the sounds from outside grew. Screams, shouts and a cackling laugh ran through the tunnel, filling Cadence’s mind with worry and quickening her pace. What’s happening out there? I hope it isn’t taking control of dragons again.

The sight that met Cadence’s eyes as she stepped from the cave into the late afternoon sun caused her to stop in her tracks. I can’t believe I left them alone.

In the centre of the village, next to the well, stood Qui and a few other dragons she didn’t recognise. Surrounding them in a circle was the rest of the village, green obvious in each of their eyes. Yet this was not what drew Cadence’s eyes.

Standing before all the dragons was a form similar to that of a pony, but there was no fur covering its body. A shiny black material, almost like a shell, covered the creature from the tip of its twisted horn to the base of its hole ridden limbs. Only the green of its eyes and the glistening of saliva dripping from its lips broke the black.

A changeling, Cadence knew, recognising it from Cloud’s game of cards, yet it was different in a way. Instead of a pair of tattered wings like most of the changelings she had seen depicted, this creature only had one, if the twisted stump of flesh even counted. It all makes sense, the changelings in Cloud’s game always had the power to control other creatures. I should have realised sooner.

Seeing what was standing before the changeling, Cadence felt a mixture of guilt, from the green in his eyes, and joy, knowing he would soon be free.

“Are you scared silly pony?” The voice that came from the changeling caused Cadence to gasp and her eyes to widen. Akin to the screech of a bat, a sound that would send shivers down anyones spine. “I can taste your fear from here.” A tongue of deep purple flicked from the creatures lips before retreating back inside.

Forcing the surprise from her face with a determined look, Cadence took a step forward. “I’m not scared, only sad. Why would you kill so many dragons, completely destroy a village like this? Why would you..”

“Take him? I’m a changeling, this is what we do.” As she spoke a few of the dragons left the circle behind her, moving to her sides.

“But can’t you see you’re hurting all these dragons? Doesn’t that make you feel at least the slightest bit sorry?” Cadence grit her teeth, trying to resist the urge to plead for Shining. “Isn’t there anything you love?”

The changeling’s eyes went wide with glee, her voice an even higher pitch as she spoke. “Funny you should ask pony. You might not know, but most changelings find their pleasure by sapping the love of other. I was made a little different. I find my pleasure in your fear.”

Leaving the changelings mouth again, the purple tongue tasted the air, writhing in the heavily scent of terror around it. “But as fun as it would be to watch you cry, you’ve been too much mischief already.” The green glow of the changeling’s eyes grew, focused completely on Cadence.

A terror crept into Cadence’s limbs, an old enemy of hers, one that visited every so often in her nightmares. I know how to deal with this. She tried to close her eyes, but found them pinned open. No, she really can control me.

“Yes pony,” The changeling’s eyes rolled into the back of her head, body shuddering as if she were climaxing. “Give me all off your fear, let it flow through your body.”

I can do this, Cadence thought, forcing herself to take a shaky breath. I didn’t freeze up when a monster of a dragon stood before me, I won’t do it now. Yet no matter how hard she tried, her horn would not light, her eyes would not close.

“Mmm, please keep resisting pony, it only makes your terror all the sweeter.” Licking at her lips, the changeling inhaled deeply, every bit of the air around her thick with fear.

As frozen with fear as she was, the movement Cadence could see in the corner of her eye gave her a hint of hope. Shining’s coming to save me. Bit by bit, somehow without the changeling’s notice, he moved towards her.

Before she knew it he was standing before her and her chest was alive with the beat of her heart. His head leant towards hers, lips at her ear, the touch alone enough to send the tingling of nerves throughout her body. Is he still under her control?

“Cadence,” Soft in her ear, Shining’s voice came with a kiss. The hot sensation fought back against the cold hold of fear in her body.

Seeing Shining’s kiss, the changeling screeched. “I never allowed you to move you filthy unicorn.”

Cadence felt Shining’s muzzle withdrawing from her ear, the hint of a tear forming in her eye as the warmth left. Despite being under the changeling’s will, he managed to force a few words from his lips.

“Remember what we said, we love each other too much.”

The words tore the terror from Cadence’s features and replaced it with a smile. Yes, no matter what we go through, or who controls our minds. We will always love each other more than anything.

Like a tiny spark, the thoughts ignited a warmth in her chest, a fire that melted away the icy grasp of fear. Cadence felt it moving up her body along her cheeks and to the tip of her horn, lighting it with blue.

Yes, Cadence couldn’t help the tears that flowed from her eyes as her blue glow reached out, surrounding the changeling.

“How?” A screech rang through the air, the changeling backing away from the magic as if it were boiling lava. “You shouldn’t be able to move.” She squirmed as she rose into the air, green eyes pulsing. “It doesn’t matter, you won’t live long.”

The dragons that had previously surrounded the changeling moved forward, teeth bared and claws raised.

“Kill her now!” Qui’s voice called from far behind, yet Cadence only backed away.

I can’t kill her, that would be. Cadence swallowed hard as a picture of the changeling entered her mind. Twisted out on the red-brown rock, a pool of deep red staining the ground around her. No, if I did that I could never live with myself. What would Celestia think, what would Shining think?

Ignoring the approaching threat, Cadence’s eyes searched for her prince. Yet instead of the blue color she hoped for in his eyes, they were a sickly green. The warm tears of joy that had been flowing from her eyes previously were washed away by those of sorrow. I thought you were free.

Looking back to the suspended changeling, Cadence saw a smile on her glistening back lips. “Even your precious lover is against you. It doesn’t matter how close you think you are, fear conquers all.”

“No, you’re wrong,” Cadence called back, wiping the tear from her cheeks with a hoof. “Even through your strange controlling spell, he’s still Shining.” One step, then another and she stood before him, meeting his dead green eyes with her own watery pair. “You’re still there, aren’t you?”

A cackle moved through the air in time with a swing of Shining’s foreleg, both aimed at Cadence. She managed to step back from his hoof before it collided, but it still left her mouth agape.

No... he’s, She shook her head, pushing the doubting thoughts aside. He simply needs a little more coaxing.

Moving forward, Cadence dodged another swing before pressing her lips into Shining’s, uncaring of the dragons approaching close behind. This will reach him. She felt his lips harden, feeding the fear in her mind.

Yet after a short moment they softened, responding to her kiss in full force. Meeting his eyes, she saw they were blue once more, the green taint gone from them.

“Freeing one from my control won’t matter, you’re still dead.” The changeling followed her words with a cackle, but sureness she had before was missing, her words seeming empty.

Tearing her lips away from Shining, Cadence turned to find what the changeling said was about to come true. One step from them stood Aere, his eyes lit up with green and jaw hanging loose, saliva dripping from the stained teeth inside.

Their eyes met, minion and meal, both knowing the other was seconds away from making a move. Aere leapt forward while Cadence lit her horn, stealing him out of the air with her blue glow.

As she lifted Aere towards the sky Cadence saw three more dragons behind him, their eyes in a similar state. All three dove forward with snarls, and all three were scooped up in Cadence’s blue and lifted.

By now the weight on Cadence’s horn had her deep and steady breaths shaking somewhat. The struggling of those above causing sweat to form on her brow. How many more are there? I can’t hold this many forever.

Noticing the strain held in Cadence’s composure, Shining stepped forward as another dragon approached. Lighting his horn, he readied himself to encapsulate the enslaved beast with his magic, but before the dragon even leapt the blue of Cadence’s power surrounded it.

“You can’t hold them all up in the air pony,” The changeling called out, forcing a mocking tone into her voice, and failing. Uncertainty was clear now in the changeling’s shaking words and glowing green eyes, yet she still kept sending her minions forth.

Watching as Cadence lifted another two into the air, Shining nodded. I need to stop her somehow. Reaching out with his magic, he caged the changeling in a suit of blue before lifting her into the air, hoping the disturbance would disturb her control.

As Shining had expected, upending the changeling caused her eyes to flicker for a moment, the glow around some of her dragons’ eyes flickering, but not fading altogether. Once her movement through the air had settled, the green of her eyes flashed, sending the last of her minions forth.

Once again they were lifted upward by Cadence’s magic, rendered useless in the air above.

Moving forward, Shining stopped once he was face to face with the changeling, close enough to see her quivering eyes. “Please don’t kill me, just let me go and I’ll never bother this village again.”

Shining stared hard back at the changeling’s fear-filled eyes, not allowing a hint of emotion to enter his. I doubt she’d leave this village alone, and even if she did, there’d be another one she’d find. What do we even do with her?

“Shining?” Cadence’s strained voice came from behind, drawing Shining’s eyes away from the changeling and towards her. She was lying on the ground now, eyelids screwed shut and whole body shaking. “Please, quick.”

Nodding, Shining turned back, only realising the worry now in his features once it was too late.

“I’m not afraid, it’s just wrong.” Shifting his eyes away from the changeling’s, Shining saw Qui and two other dragons behind her. Guarding the three were the last two of the changeling’s enslaved dragons that were still groundborne. He could see confusion in Qui’s eyes.

“Wrong?” The changeling cackled again, her smile growing. “You don’t know the meaning of wrong pony. Maybe inside your precious little palace at home you thought killing was wrong, but out here, you need to be able to kill to survive.”

“No, there’s another way. I’ve seen monsters like you changed. Changed into friends.” Bringing a hoof up to his head, Shining thought back through what little he had seen of Ember’s reformation. And Moretur too, until… He winced at the memory, shaking it away and looking back to the changeling.

The smile on the changeling’s lips was growing still, her yellow-stained teeth and purple tongue showing. “I see those friends left you with some good memories. Even if you could change me, which you can’t, you don’t have the time to.” Looking over Shining’s shoulder once more, she directed his eyes towards Cadence.

Holding a dozen and a half dragons high in the sky, Cadence was now shaking uncontrollably, tears running down her cheeks.

“I’ve never seen one as strong as her,” The changeling continued over Shining’s shoulder. “So I’ll give her till sundown before she’s out. She’ll be half-dead by then, and a weakling like you can’t take on all those dragons, can you?” Seeing a shiver run through Shining’s body, the changeling cackled. “I thought so.”

“Kill her now!” Qui’s voice rang over the village centre, followed by a grunt as one of the dragons guarding him pummeled him to the ground.

Turning away from Cadence and towards the sound, Shining found himself meeting the terrifyingly excited eyes of the changeling once more. “A weakling like you could never kill me, you can’t even help your precious lover.”

“There’s always a way.” Shining forced the words from his lips while his mind worked, hoping for some sort of miraculous idea. What would Cloud say? Kneading the side of his head with a hoof, he brought and image of the pegasus to mind.

It’s a battle you’re fighting, There will always be casualties. Sometimes lives have to be lost to keep evil at bay. Cloud had repeated the words over and over after the battle, in various forms but the same essential meaning. You have to kill her Shining, you’re a guard.

Looking back up to the changeling, Shining stilled the shaking in his limbs and allowed his spark of determination to show in his features. “Don’t be so sure you’ve won this.”

Terror leapt back into the changeling’s eyes upon seeing Shining’s. “You can’t be meaning to.”

“If it will save her, if it saves this village. You have to go.” Shining drew in a deep breath, thinking of the easiest way to perform the task. If you have complete control over your target, breaking the neck is quick and clean.

The words sprang forth from his now faint memories of guard training. Words that had seemed so simple at the time, just another fact to know for the test, never heaped up with emotion like they were now.

Releasing the breath he had held, Shining glanced back at Cadence once more. The shaking that had previously ran through her limbs was now gone, but her features were still lined with pain. I need to stop this now, He knew.

Looking back to the changeling, he found her fighting against his magic, kicking the air, but getting nowhere. “You don’t have the guts to do this,” She screeched at him, yet her words lacked conviction, and the fear in her eyes told the true tale.

“I’m sorry, but if there really is no other way to do this…” Shining’s words trailed off into a sigh. “Then I’ll do what must be done.” Closing his eyes, he focused his magic around the changeling’s neck and shoulders.

“No!”

“No.”

A scream and a whisper filled the air at the same time, one of pure terror leaving the changeling’s lips and the other strained, coming from Cadence.

Picking up the hint of Cadence’s voice amongst the high pitched screech of the changeling, Shining opened his eyes and flicked his head back to his princess. “What do you mean Cadence? If I don’t stop her now it’ll be over for everyone.”

“Not, this,” Cadence managed, pushing through the pain she held to lift her muzzle and meet Shining’s eyes. “Another, way.”

“I,” All words escaped Shining as he took a step towards Cadence, the want to shed tears caught in his eyes and throat. She’s right, what was I thinking? I could never kill someone, no matter how evil she is.

“Watch o-” The words were cut off by a grunt and the sound of scales colliding with scales.

Turning towards the sound, Shining found one of the dragons that had been guarding Qui and two others now stood a step from him. One more spring of his legs and the dragon was flying through the air towards Shining, claws outstretched and jaw wide open.

Time seemed to slow for Shining, his eyes suddenly picking out every detail of the scene before him. The terrifyingly wide eyes of the dragon leaping towards him, the smug smile on the changeling, still suspended a few steps away, and the shadow pouncing down from above her.

His mind only had time for one thought however, safety. With the last reserves of his magic, Shining sent forth a burst of blue from his horn, aimed at the approaching dragon. A screech filled the air in time with his bolt of magic colliding with the dragon, stopping its leap midair and causing the purple-scaled body to fall.

I hope I didn’t hurt him, Shining thought as the limp form made contact with the ground. Looking more closely at the dragon, he noticed its eyes lacked the green glow they had previously held. What happened?

Lifting his eyes towards where the changeling had been suspended only moments ago, Shining saw she was no longer there. Instead a pair of spread wings took the changeling’s place in the sky, leading Shining’s eyes down towards their owner.

“Pipa?” Shining called as he took a step forward, his eyes not yet taking in the full picture.

Pipa turned towards her name, a sickening tearing filling the air along with the movement. The ginger feathers around her beak were dripping with dark green, the liquid trailing down her chest and to her claws.

Following the dark streak with his eyes, Shining felt a sickness forming in his stomach when he saw what lay at the end. Crushed beneath Pipa’s forelegs was the changeling’s neck, or what was left of it. The head he had been speaking with moments ago was now only held onto its body by a few strands of torn green flesh.

Choking back the want to retch, Shining turned his eyes away from the scene. “Does that mean she’s gone?”

“The demon is no more,” Pipa answered before lowering her beak to what was left of the changeling’s neck. With one quick movement she tore the whole head free, splattering warm green over the stone before her. “I will assure she never returns.”

Taking the head in one of her claws, Pipa leapt into the air, catching the wind in her still spread wings and soaring high into the air above.

His breaths shaky, Shining stared at the dust beneath him, trying not to think about the remains of a body only a few steps away. He wanted to cry, he wanted to empty his stomach, he wanted to lay down and forget it had ever happened, but most of all, he wanted Cadence.

The craving for her touch reminded Shining of the pain she was in. Picking himself up, he crossed the short distance to her in stumbling steps, placing his muzzle in her ear as he lowered himself beside her. “You can let them down now, it’s over.”

Upon hearing his words, the inferno of blue that surrounded Cadence’s horn shifted, bringing those who hovered high above down to the ground. A heavy sigh left her lungs once she was free from their weight, her eyes lifting to meet Shining’s. She found a terror there, like that of a foal who had woken from a nightmare.

“What happened?” The words that left Cadence’s lips were weak, barely more than a breath.

Without speaking, Shining wrapped his forelegs tight around her, drawing her close and inhaling her scent. After a few moments of simply holding her, breathing, Shining finally spoke. "She’s gone.”

Cadence drew in a sharp gasp, pulling back from Shining far enough to look into his eyes. “Did you?”

“No.” Shining shook his head, trying to push the image of Pipa from his mind, dripping with green, the same green that flowed from the changeling’s open neck. “It was Pipa.”

Hearing the griffon’s name, Cadence responded with a questioning look. “Who’s Pipa?” Her head tipped to the side as she spoke, eyes scrunching closed and a wince escaping her lips.

Leaning forward, Shining steadied her head on his shoulder. “You need to rest Cadence, we can talk about everything else in the morning.”

“No, I’m fine.” Up-righting her head, Cadence rubbed at the base of her horn with a hoof. “I simply need something to drink.”

“I can be of help with that.”

The unexpected voice right behind Shining caused him to jolt before turning to face it. He found Qui standing behind him, Rale and his mother at his side. “You don’t have to.” Shining raised a hoof to brush the offer away. “We have plenty of water ourselves.”

“No.” Qui stepped forward, the grin on his lips seeming out of place. “Something must be done to repay you. Saviours cannot go unrewarded.”

Saviours. Shining averted his eyes when the words reached his ears, a small sickness stirring in his stomach at its sound, I’m not a saviour, I barely did a thing. Despite his feelings, he lifted his eyes once more. Cadence needs a reward though. “If you could give us water to drink, that would be good.”

Qui nodded before turning away. “Water, we need some water.” Within moments of his call a dragon was working the well, drawing the stone pail up.

Listening to the conversation, Cadence felt as if she were watching from afar, not one of the two ponies, but someone else. Many times she felt her head swaying, eyelids drooping and mind begging for rest, but she bit her lips to fight off the weariness. Stay awake until you’ve had something to drink Cadence.

Thankfully the dragon collecting the water held far more energy than she did, his strong forelegs pulling the pail from deep below within moments.

“No, let her drink first,” She heard Shining say before cool stone was pressed against her lips. “Are you ready?”

Cadence managed a slight nod and felt the water trickling over her lips, a gentle stream flowing down her desert dry throat. “Mmm,” She moaned, the cool liquid waking her slightly as it spilled from the corners of her mouth.

After a few moments a just filling her mouth and swallowing, Cadence felt her lungs growing tight with want for air. Oh no, I need to breathe. She drew her lips away and gasped, moaning once more as the chill of the water kissed her chest.

Her body now completely satisfied, Cadence felt herself drifting off once more, this time she allowed it to happen. Muffled voices swum through the air around her as she tipped sideways, a ring of magic the last thing she heard.

Soaring on Sunlight

“I don’t think I’ll miss that town,” Shining said, gazing back down the twisting mountain pass they had come from. They were hidden from the mid morning sun by the shadow of the mountain peak.

“Well you shouldn’t think like that.” Turning as well, Cadence looked back down the path, a sad smile on her lips. “They weren’t bad dragons, they simply had horrible things happen to them.”

“Mmm,” Shining nodded. “Things I’d rather forget. Anyway, we need to get moving, we should be able to climb this mountain and finally see the griffon lands by tonight.” Turning back to the track before him, Shining moved forward, Cadence at his side.

The day passed slowly for Shining, his thoughts consumed by the events of the previous day. I did nothing the whole time, we were close to dying but there was nothing I could do. I couldn’t even finish the job myself.

Images of Cadence’s face lined with pain flashed through his mind, each one feeding the sick feeling in his stomach. Why do I have to be so useless? I did nothing but watch back in Rockholm, and the same happened yesterday.

Heavy thoughts weighed down on his limbs, slowing his pace up the mountain. What good am I to her if I can’t even protect her? I’m just a burden.

Noticing that Shining was lagging behind, Cadence turned to him with worry in her eyes and voice. “Is something wrong Shining? Do you need to stop for a rest?”

The voice pulled Shining from his thoughts, lifting his eyes towards the one he loved so dearly. “Oh, I’m fine, just thinking about something.” Increasing his speed, he soon caught back up with Cadence.

Leaning closer to Shining as they continued, Cadence pressed her lips against his cheek. “Well what is it? You seem worried about something.”

“Oh, no.” Shining forced a smile to his lips. I’m enough of a trouble to her already, I don’t want her to worry about this as well. “It’s nothing, I was just thinking about what the griffons will be like.” The lie left a bitter taste in his mouth and churned the already swirling sickness in his stomach.

Her foreleg hanging over Shining’s withers, Cadence stilled her movement, pulling him to a stop as well. “Are you sure everything’s fine? I’ve never seen you this troubled before.” She tried to meet his eyes, but found it impossible.

Staring down at the dirt, Shining opened his lips, almost about to spill his insecurities forth, but something caused him to stop. “Can you feel that?” He was thankful for the excuse, so much so that the false smile on his lips remained.

“No, what is it?” Turning to face up the mountain, Cadence felt the slightest hint of a breeze against her cheeks.

“The wind, can’t you feel it?” Part of Shining was genuinely glad, the hot sun above had drawn sweat from his body all day, something even a whisper of wind could ease. The other half of him was glad for an excuse, any reason not to discuss the sensation of worthlessness that had grown inside him.

“Well yes, but,” Looking back to Shining, Cadence found she could see his eyes now. Hidden behind the veil of joy in his blue pupils, she saw doubt and worry. What was he really thinking about? Choosing to respect his wishes, she pushed the concern from her own features with a smile. “But it will get even better as we keep moving.”

For a time the wind was a cool relief, its whispers keeping their bodies cool. These whispers soon grew into a breeze however, and the breeze into a roar by the time they stood atop the mountain, the land ahead spread out before them.

Shining was forced to squint as he peered out over the hills of sand. “Did Celestia say anything about this wind?” He asked, shifting so his shoulder took the brunt of the wind instead of his snout.

“Well, I can’t remember her writing anything about it.” Lighting her horn, Cadence reached back with blue to lift the flap on one of her saddlebags. Spying the chance, the greedy claws of the wind dug inside, lifting the topmost pastry from the open bag and sending it hurtling down the mountain path.

Seeing the pie splatter in a burst of deep red, Shining couldn’t help but feel a hint of loss deep in his stomach, but he quickly shook it away. “This isn’t the best time to be looking at writing, maybe it’s calmer down at the bottom?”

Nodding, Cadence fought against the wind’s strong tugging to close and fasten her bag, sighing with relief once it was shut once more. “I hope you’re right.”

The wind’s strength did lessen as they took an exposed path down the mountainside, but not enough for them to open their eyes completely.

As they continued down the mountain, Shining found he had finished a full gourd of water due to the wind’s dry kiss on his open mouth. Clenching his jaw tight, he turned away from the wind. I don’t want to waste all the water. It did not stop it from tearing at his mane however, filling his face with gusts of hair every now and then.

By the time they were halfway down the mountain the sun was kissing the horizon. Yet the wind did not cease even as the searing ball of fire fell into sleep, the golden hint of its glow barely visible above the distant dunes.

“We should set up camp soon,” Shining decided once the light of the sun had faded altogether. “I don’t know how much more of this wind I can take.”

Cadence nodded wordlessly before lighting her horn and conjuring a magical shelter around them. The constant roaring of the wind was kept out by its ethereal walls, something she was thankful for. “I hope the wind stops by tomorrow, I can’t take any more of this either.”

“Mmm.” Without even removing his saddlebags or forming a magical mattress underneath, Shining sunk to the ground, glad to finally have his legs at rest. “It’s like we’re trying to push through a wall of water, all day.”

The weight of his body was nothing compared to that of his thoughts. Even now, I’m so tired I can barely set up camp. Why should I be tired? I wasn’t the one who saved a village yesterday. Every part of him wanted to fall asleep, allow the dreaming darkness to swallow up his worries.

He heard the ring of her horn fill the air, followed by the sensation of his saddlebags being lifted from his back. And again, He thought. She’s doing all the work for me. I’ve got to help in some way. Fighting against the want to sleep, he lit his horn.

While Cadence took her own pair of bags off, Shining formed the ethereal mattress, rubbing his cheek against the soft surface once it had taken shape. There, at least I helped a little. The thought brought a slight smile to his lips. Now I just need to sleep.

Rolling onto his stomach, he felt it growl, reminding him of when he had last eaten. “Do you want something to eat?” Shining asked pulling a pastry from his saddlebags.

“I’ll share yours.” Shifting across the mattress, Cadence soon found herself leaning against Shining’s side. She broke off a small piece of the cinnamon and apple treat for herself, nibbling sleepily while Shining crunched through his.

Shining felt the heavy thoughts invading his mind as he ate. Wanting to rid his mind of them, he forced the first sentence that came to his lips. “When do you think we’ll see the griffon towns?”

“Well, I don’t know.” Glancing over Shining’s shoulder, Cadence looked out to the featureless stretch of sand beyond. “But hopefully soon, I don’t want to travel through this wind much longer.”

“Shining, wake up, you need to see this.”

A groan left Shining’s lips as hooves shook his shoulder, the sun’s rays creeping under his eyelids to coax him awake. The ring of magic filled the air and he felt his body tipping sideways.

“You really need to see this Shining, it’s like nothing we’ve ever seen before.”

More awake than he had been moments ago, Shining now heard the excitement in Cadence’s voice. I shouldn’t keep her waiting, I don’t want to be more of a burden than I already am. He grimaced at the thought, reminding him of the sickly guilt he still carried in his stomach.

“What is it?” Lifting a hoof to shield his eyes from the sun, Shining peered out over the hills of sand before him. “What is that?” Worries forgotten for the moment, Shining brought a hoof to his eyes and rubbed the bleariness away.

Far away, across the unending sands, he spied a great blob of white and brown, the haziness of sleep in his vision still hiding the finer details.

“I don’t know,” Cadence responded in a whisper, as if whatever they were looking at could hear her. “It looks like a big building with wings, and it’s flying.”

Flying? Shining’s brow creased with confusion at the word, but another rub at his eyes proved what she said to be true. “How can something so large fly? It barely has any wings.” His eyes now completely clear, he could make out tiny dots, like flies circling a mule, soaring around the great beast.

Cadence had seen them too. “There’s something flying around it as well, could those be griffons?”

His mind still foggy with sleep, Shining rubbed at his forehead, hoping to clear the clouds. “Maybe, but why are they all riding that massive brown thing?”

“Well, it could be where they live?” As she spoke, Cadence grew more and more certain of her words. “Maybe they live in great flying cities, like that.”

A loud gulp came from Shining, causing Cadence to chuckle. He had managed to accustom himself to riding a pegasus. But being up in the air all the time? “I hope not all of their cities are flying, I don’t think I could live like that.”

“Well, if there is a city on the ground, it'll take far longer to get there if we walk.” Her horn ringing, Cadence lifted the pair of yellow saddlebags onto her back, doing the same for Shining. “Come on, we should try to get up there.”

Before Shining could blink, the ethereal mattress that had been cradling him vanished, the shelter around fading to nothing. “Hey, I was still trying to sleep.” The moment the walls dropped, his words were torn away, the desert wind back in full force.

Looking to Shining, Cadence found annoyance there, and couldn’t help but smile. She stepped towards him, placing her lips in his ear. “Come on, we should get moving before it’s too late.”

Fighting against the tired aches that filled each of his limbs, Shining rose. “We’re never going to cover all that desert in time.” As the words left his lips, he felt the sickly guilt in his stomach once more. I’m always saying the worst, always slowing us down.

“Mmm, you’re right.” A smile came to Cadence’s lips as she spoke. “But all we need to do it catch their attention, I’m sure they’ll carry you the rest of the way.” Her wings spread from her sides, and lifted her half off the ground as the wind caught them.

Once she had recovered, Cadence crouched down beside Shining. “Get on, I’ll be able to fly down.”

“Are you sure? You passed out from using too much magic only two days ago.” Shining couldn’t help the worry that creased his brow. Again we have to rely on her strength to get us through another problem. Why isn’t there a way I can help?

Cadence shook her head, still smiling. “Trust me, with this wind I’ll barely have to fly at all.”

“But...” Seeing the excitement in Cadence’s features, Shining knew he couldn’t deny her. “Alright, but if you feel weak at all, go right back down.” Watching her nod, he eased himself on top of her, trying to find a comfortable position on the smaller body.

“Ready?” Cadence called back, her words barely loud enough to break the wind.

Shining pressed his lips into her ears. “Yes, please be car-” Before he could finish he felt the body underneath him release a burst of power, the wind rushing past even faster as they dove head first into it.

Like a leaf that hitting the surface of a roaring river, Cadence’s wings were caught in the current and pulled backward, but a few flaps soon righted her path. Soaring up the mountainside, Cadence reached the peak of the wind’s lift before turning in the air and heading back over the desert.

Clenching his jaw tight, Shining tried to ignore the sickness that Cadence’s hard turn brought to his stomach. We just have to make it to that flying city, then no more flying. Even as he told himself this, he realized how wrong he was. I’m going to be flying all day and night.

“Sh-..-ey-....-us-...-the-..-oon.” Only scraps of Cadence’s words made it through the roar of the wind, Shining pressing his lips to her ear in response.

“I can’t hear what you’re saying.”

Knowing anything she said would only be torn up again, Cadence lifted her hoof, directing Shining’s eyes to what lay ahead.

He lifting his eyes into the sharp claws of the wind, squinting tight so he could bare the pain. Muzzle still pressed into her ear, he continued speaking. “Are those griffons coming out to meet us?” He felt a nod against his cheek in response, Cadence’s wings beating to speed up their progress.

As they grew closer, Shining noticed the three griffons lacked welcoming smiles, but were instead wary. “Cadence, are you sure they’re friendly?" He felt his stomach jolt as the beating of Cadence’s wings stilled.

Yet any second thoughts the pair were having over their flight no longer mattered once the griffons had surrounded them. One of light brown and white feathers came close, gliding beside Cadence as they moved towards the great flying city.

Unable to beat her wings for fear of hitting the griffon, Cadence kept them straight out at her sides, trusting in the strength of the wind to carry her. She could sense the presence of the griffon above her, but no matter what way she turned her head, she couldn’t see it. They must be talking with Shining.

After a few moments, she felt the shadow over her leave, and Shining’s lips press into her ear once more. “She said you should head for the top of the city.” Cadence saw his hoof reach out, directing her eyes to the massive flat platform atop the city.

Much closer now, she could make out an open dome atop it, made from what appeared to be feathers. That must be how they keep out the wind. Tilting her wings, Cadence allowed the wind to lift her higher, the griffons beside her following.

She climbed the sky until they were high above the flying city. Below Cadence could see the circle of griffons inside the dome, waiting for her to land. The picture brought back faint memories of her welcoming to Rockholm. But it’s not the same, everyone was cheering back then.

Instead of cheers, Cadence found hard eyes as she descended towards the circle. Yet even amongst the hostility, she picked out a few who appeared excited to see her.

One was a griffon of silver and white, its whole body shaking, making it difficult for Cadence to focus on its warm, welcoming gaze. As she grew closer a smile crept into the griffon’s beak, only for a claw to lift and cover it.

I should probably slow down, Cadence realised once she was only a few moments from landing. With a beat of her wings, she eased her descent, allowing the flex of her legs to take the rest of the fall.

Yet she had forgotten to take into account the weight of Shining clinging to her back and the lack of uplifting wind cut off by the dome. The extra force caused her legs to bend painfully far down and sent her body toppling sideways.

Crack! The ear piercing sound rang through the air, causing the eyes of everyone but Cadence to widen. Hers clenched tight in pain, a cry leaving her lips and filling the air, overtop of dozens of gasps.

Caught in Cadence’s fall as well, Shining found himself on his side, unable to see what was causing the pain of his princess. In the back of his mind he had a sickening thought however. It was me.

Choosing not to dwell on the fear, he gently eased himself out of the tangle before moving so he could see her face. Crouched beside Cadence, Shining saw pain twisting her features, her lower lips bit between her teeth to keep the cries of pain inside.

“What’s wrong Cadence?” He lowered his lips to her cheek, laying a soft kiss there before retreating, waiting for an answer. Yet all he got in response was a hiss of pain.

A throat clearing cough came from behind Shining, drawing his eyes to the unamused griffon standing there, dozens of other behind him. “Your fat body crushed her when she landed, that’s what happened.”

Hearing what he had feared aloud, Shining felt a shiver run through his whole body, the want to shed tears choking his throat. Not being able to help her when she needs me is bad enough, but hurting her like this.

“No, it wasn’t his fault.” Cadence’s strained voice drew Shining’s attention back towards her. “I should have landed slower.”

Sitting beside her, Shining could no longer contain the guilty sickness in his stomach. “If I could fly this wouldn’t have happened.”

“Shining.” Cadence’s eyes cracked open to meet his, the pain written across her features replaced with a smile. “Don’t blame yourself for something you can’t help. Not having wings doesn’t make it your fault.”

“But-” A heaving sigh cut Shining off, his hoof lifting to dry the moisture leaking from the corner of his eye. “It seems like there’s nothing I can do to help you, like I’m useless. When we were-”

“Enough of this sob story.” A gruff voice cut through air, putting Shining’s babbling to a stop. “We didn’t bring these ponies here to watch them cry.”

“You’re right,” Another voice responded, lifting Shining’s eyes towards it. Standing behind Cadence he saw a griffon of dirty white and deep black feathers, a head taller than all those around him. “Get up ponies, we want to know why you’re here.”

Shining glanced down at Cadence before looking back up at the griffon. “She can’t stand like this, can’t we jus-”

“I don’t care, that’s your problem, not ours. Now stand.” The griffon motioned upwards with his claw.

His lips parting to argue back once more, Shining heard Cadence whisper in his ear before he could speak. “Don’t worry, I’ll be able to stand if I lean on you.” Her weak foreleg looped over his withers, the rest of her legs pushing upwards.

Rising with Cadence, Shining saw the tall griffon nodding as he did so. “Now ponies,” The griffon said once they were standing. “Why would you so foolishly return to our lands after what you have done?”

Cadence and Shining shared a glance at his question, both pairs of eyes holding the same thought. What is he talking about? After a moment, Cadence nodded and turned back to the griffon.

“Well, could you tell us what we have done exactly?”

“Don’t pretend like you don’t know,” The griffon said, shaking his head. “Now tell us, why did you take her? Why have you come back?”

“I’m sorry, but we really have no idea what you’re talking about.” Meeting the griffon’s eyes, Cadence gave her best attempt at an apologetic smile.

“Don’t try this!”

The roar that erupted from the griffon sent a shiver of shock through Cadence. A wince leaving her lips as her hurt foreleg shifted.

“Rorack, please don’t be so mean to them.” A quiet, feminine voice came from behind Cadence and Shining, drawing their eyes towards it. At its source Cadence found the griffon of silver and white she had seen as she landed. “They really don’t seem to know anything.”

Rorack’s eyes narrowed as he shifted them from the pony pair to the griffon who had spoken. “Since when have you been a good judge of character Mila?” The griffon in question shrunk away at his harsh words, one of her claws lifting to hide her face.

“Rorack.” Another voice joined, this one calm, full of wisdom. “We all know how much her disappearance has affected you, but don’t take it out on your fellow griffons.”

Watching Rorack’s eyes the whole time, Shining saw anger flare in them for an instant, before fading away.

“You are right Ilcit,” Rorack admitted, hanging his head in shame. “My judgement is clouded by everything, and having these ponies right here, they could have the answer.” Moving his eyes back to Shining and Cadence, he repeated his first question. “Why would you come here?”

“Well,” Cadence could feel a small smile spreading across her lips now, thankful not to be under Rorack’s angry gaze any longer. “We’re travelling through The Griffon Lands to experience the griffon culture, learn more about you.”

“That is the worst excuse I-”

“Rorack!” Lifting a claw to accentuate her statement, Ilcit shook her head. “It would be best if someone not so emotionally involved questioned them.” She turned to the ponies. “There must be another reason you two have come, no pony comes this far to simply experience our culture.”

A deep breath lifted Cadence’s shoulders as she turned towards Ilcit. “That’s really the only reason we came. Well, that, and we were hoping we could help the griffons in some way.”

“Then would you happen to know the whereabouts of our chief's daughter? She is a much loved griffon and many are in great anguish over her disappearance.” Ilcit’s eyes flicked to Rorack and back.

Shaking her head, Cadence sighed. “No, we don’t, I’m sorry.” Looking back to Rorack, she now saw the sorrow in his eyes. He must have really loved her, maybe they were married? “But maybe there’s something we can do to help?”

Rorack glared back at Cadence for a moment before turning his head to the side. “We don’t accept help from ponies.”

“Rorack!” Ilcit’s voice rang across the stage once more, in time with a roar of wind above. “As far as we know these ponies have nothing to do with those who stole Abigail away. Also, the aid of ponies is something that should not be brushed off so easily, especially the unicorns.”

Looking more closely at Cadence, Ilcit’s features twisted with confusion. “Pink pony, how do you possess both wings and a horn? Only the princesses have such power bestowed upon them.”

“Well, my name’s Cadence.” She could feel her cheeks glowing red now, the eyes of the griffons all around seeming much heavier. “And, I am a princess.”

Ilcit’s eyes grew wide, her beak hanging wide open. “Are you the princess who was to come two months ago? The one sent by Princess Celestia?”

The red on Cadence’s cheeks had set her whole face afire by now. “I’m sorry we’re a little late, we lost track of time in Rockholm.”

“We welcomed another group of ponies about the time we were expecting you to arrive. Those ponies were the ones who took Abigail.”

Oh no, Cadence thought. We’ve caused so much trouble for them before we even got here. “We’re so sorry.”

“No.” Ilcit shook her head. “It is we who should be sorry for treating a princess in such a way. Follow Red and Jern below deck and they will show you to the medical bay. I will organize some food and drink to be brought as well.” Her claw lifted to point out two griffons behind Shining and Cadence.

With Shining supporting her, Cadence turned slowly, gritting her teeth to hide the pain she was in. Once they had turned completely, she saw that Red and Jern were crouching down, the sight bringing memories of Cloud and Skylight to her mind.

“Do you want us to get on?” Cadence asked the griffons once she and Shining had made the short walk to them.

One of the two nodded, pointed a claw at the chestnut feathers on his back. “We will take both of you safely down.”

“Well, I can fly myself.”

“Princess.” Ilcit’s voice came from behind them. “It would not be wise for you to fly with a broken leg. You would likely have another accident.”

Nodding, Cadence drew her foreleg from Shining’s back and moved to the chestnut and white griffon. She half-collapsed, half-lowered herself onto his back. Yet the griffon did not even seem to feel her weight.

Glancing to the side, she saw Shining climbing atop the other griffon, uneasiness obvious in his features. He was so used to flying on Cloud. I hope this won’t bring back his fear of flight. The sensation of muscles rippling underneath her brought Cadence’s attention back to the griffon she was atop of.

“Can yo-” Her words were snatched from the air before she could finish, the griffon leaping into the air and his wings catching the rushing river of wind above. Cadence felt a jolt of pain run up her broken foreleg at the sudden movement,

Biting down on her lip, she resisted the urge to gasp and instead turned her eyes to the soaring city below. They had peeled far out to the side of it and were now diving back in, Cadence able to spy griffons moving about in the many levels below.

They hit the city in the centre, the griffon Cadence rode stopping himself with a quick beat of his wings. If only I had been able to do that, She thought, noticing how little effort he appeared to put into the movement. I wouldn’t have this broken leg right now.

The griffon landed easily, his partner and Shining soon joining them. When Cadence dismounted, Shining was there to help her, his steady foreleg keeping her from falling.

Once both ponies were standing once more, the griffons moved deeper into the city, expecting Cadence and Shining to follow.

“Where are we going?” Cadence asked, her eyes gazing past the griffons, hoping to find some sign of their destination. Yet all she saw was a door, and a wall right behind.

“To the medical bay,” One of the griffons, his feathers ginger and white, answered. “We need to get that leg treated.”

“No, don’t worry about it, I can heal my own leg.” By now they had gone through the door and around the corner behind it, Cadence’s eyes widening and her speech slowing when she saw what was beyond. “Can you take us somewhere that we can rest?”

Both her and Shining stopped in their tracks at the sight before them. Inside the walls of the flying structure they rode, a maze of streets and buildings were held. Every part of the space was used. Homes hung from the roof and others homes hung from their floors. Dozens of different scents filled the air.

Looking back at Cadence, the ginger griffon shook his head. “It would be best if you allowed one of our nurses to help you. They see broken bones all the time, it will be fixed within a few weeks if you leave it to them.”

Cadence couldn’t help but smile at his words. “Well, a few weeks is a little too long for me to have my leg broken. I can heal it tonight.”

Confusion crossed the griffon’s face for a moment before laughter burst from his lips. “You’ve got to be kidding. One night to heal a broken leg? The fastest I’ve seen it done is one week, and that was Tina, she always recovers quickly.”

“Just give us somewhere to lie,” Shining said. “I know she can do this before you could fetch some food.”

His features full of doubt, the griffon shared a look with his partner, before turning back and nodding. “Fine, but if it’s not healed by then, you’re going to see a nurse.”

“I’ve never had to do this with a time limit before,” Cadence said as she lit her horn. “I hope I can finish before they get back.” They had been placed in one of the hundreds of pocket rooms the city offered, only big enough to hold a mattress for two.

“Don’t worry about how long you take.” Shining lay against one of the walls, Cadence’s head pillowed by his stomach. “If they come in I’ll make sure they don’t stop you.”

“Well, if you say so.” Taking a deep breath and closing her eyes, Cadence recited the healing spell she had just read over under her breath. The bud of magic formed first at her horn, before sprouting vines of blue, each one moving down her body towards the injured leg.

Upon contact with her pink coat, the tendrils dove inside, Cadence able to feel them working around her cracked bone. Each shard was placed back where it belonged, her whole leg shifting as the bone was realigned.

A wince of pain and a pop filled the air, signifying to Shining that the process was complete. He watched as the cords of Cadence’s magic retreated from her now healed foreleg and back towards her horn. The bud winking out the moment the door opened to his side.

“Don’t tell me,” The ginger griffon said as he entered, a hint of humour in his voice. “She managed to heal her leg while we were gone?” A soft chuckle followed his words.

Rolling onto her stomach, Cadence rose to her hooves. Red crept into her cheeks as she smiled back at the griffon. “Well, you guessed right.”

The griffon’s beak fell open, the basket of seeds and pair of gourds he carried upon his wing falling to the side, only for Cadence to catch it in her magic. “Wha-what is that?”

“It’s magic.” Cadence could feel her smile stretching wider, her cheeks burning so bright they felt as if they would catch afire. “All ponies have it in some form or another.” She placed the food and drink to one side before looking back up at the griffon.

“You can fly and do that?” His face screwed up in confusion, the chestnut griffon stepped into the room as well. “That’s unfair. Why do ponies get so much?”

“Well, not all ponies do.” Looking to Shining, Cadence pointed out his lack of wings with a hoof. “Shining doesn’t have wings, only a horn. Princesses are the only ones who get all three forms of magic.”

The chestnut and ginger griffons shared a look, a small smile breaking across the ginger one’s beak. “You know Jern, for the first time in my life, I want to be a princess.”

Both griffons tipped their heads back with laughter at his words, Jern’s legs collapsing underneath him as he fell to the floor. The ginger griffon leant against the wall to hold himself up, his whole body shaking with joy.

Even Shining and Cadence found humour in the joke, sharing a chuckle and a look. Nothing but laughter filled the room for some time, griffons who walked past the door shooting strange looks inside.

“Okay,” Red managed to say once he had recovered enough, his words broken by panting breaths. “Since your leg is fixed, Ilcit will want you at the search meeting tonight. We’ll come by a little while before to pick you up. Oh, and feel free to eat those seeds, the best roasted sesame seeds on the ship.”

Jern and Red made to leave, but Cadence’s question stopped them. “What is the search meeting about?”

Halfway out the door, Red turned back. “You’ll find out more when you get there, but it’s all about finding Abigail. Scouts come in with any information they’ve found and everyone talks about what to do next.” He turned back to the door, stepping outside before poking his head back in. “Also, be careful of Rorack. You saw what he was like today, he’s even worse in the meeting.”

The two griffons moved away, a source of chatter and laughter that slowly faded into the constant buzz of noise all around. Once they were out of earshot, Cadence magically closed the door before allowing her legs to give way underneath her.

“Are you okay?” Standing the moment he saw her fall, Shining rushed to Cadence’s side.

Taking a deep breath, she smiled back at his concerned look. “I’m alright, a little tired from the healing, that’s all.” She kissed at his cheek, pulling him down beside her with a foreleg. “Why don’t we have something to eat, and then rest before the meeting.”

The mention of food reminded Shining of the basket Cadence had placed to one side. “That sounds like a good idea.” Saliva was leaking from the corner of his mouth as he peeked over her to look at it. “What did they bring us? Fresh pies?”

“Well, I heard them say seeds,” Lighting her horn once more, Cadence moved the basket and gourds so they sat before her and Shining. “And it looks like seeds.”

Peering down at the basket of golden pieces, Shining grimaced. “They look so tiny, how could they ever fill one of us up? Let alone both.” Turning towards where their bags sat, he lit his horn and opened a flap of his. “I’ll just have pies.”

“No.” Cadence yawned as she lifted the basket towards Shining’s muzzle. “At least try them first, if you don’t like them, then you don’t have to eat them.”

Looking from his pie to the seeds and back for a few moments, Shining eventually sighed. “Fine, but I don’t see how seeds could possibly taste good. I always spit them out when I eat watermelons.” Still feeling the weight of Cadence’s eyes, he lowered his mouth towards the seeds and scooped some out with his tongue.

Bringing the basket to her own lips, Cadence did them same, crunching through a mouthful of seeds for a moment before swallowing. “Well, I think I might have a raspberry pastry.” She heard the crackle of pastry follow her words and saw a pie already half in Shining’s mouth.

“Do you want me to get you a raspberry one?” He mumbled through the mouthful, bringing a smile to Cadence’s lips.

“I’ll have some of yours.” Leaning forward, Cadence bit into the other side of Shining’s pie, tasting the blueberry it held. With the two of them working from either end, it soon disappeared, ending in a kiss.

The rush of events up to where they were now had kept Shining’s mind occupied, but now, still and sitting beside Cadence, his doubts came back to him. I’m so lucky Cadence is strong enough for both of us, otherwise she wouldn’t have been able to walk for weeks. It would have been my fault too.

Noticing the thought in Shining’s eyes, and the sorrow there as well, Cadence leant towards him. “Shining, you’re not still worrying are you?”

Cadence’s voice drew Shining from his thoughts, causing him to gasp with fright. It took him a moment to recover from the scare, staring at her with blinking eyes. “Sorry, what did you say?”

“I want you to know I don’t think of you like that.”

“Like what?” Creasing his brow, Shining tried to fake confusion as best he could.

Sighing, Cadence leant her lips close enough to meet Shining’s, sharing a long kiss with him before withdrawing. “I know what you’re thinking, you told me before. You think you’re not good enough for me, that you’re simply a burden, but that’s not true.”

Realising he could not hide his feelings from her, Shining allowed his head to droop. “Why does it seem like I can never do anything then? When we were in Rockholm, when we fought that changeling, when we were flying here. Every time it’s you doing all the work.”

“Well, it might seem like that if you just look at the physical work, but there’s much more than that.” Lifting a hoof, Cadence tilted Shining’s eyes up towards her. “You help comfort me when I feel like I’m failing. When I thought I was doing everything wrong back in Rockholm, you always knew what to say.”

Each of Cadence’s kind words helped lift the corners of Shining’s lips until he was smiling.

“And you’re not too bad of a lover either,” Cadence finished with a wink, leaning in for another kiss.

Shining returned the kiss in full force, placing his foreleg behind Cadence’s neck and drawing her close. The two moaned into each others mouths for some time, before Shining broke away, and Cadence recalled where they were.

As his head tried to moved down her neck, she nudged him away. “Shining, we’re in a tiny box hanging over so many others, and there’s griffons walking past. This isn’t the right time for this.”

“I know.” A heavy sigh followed Shining’s words. “It seems there’s never been a good time in the last few weeks.”

“Mmm, hopefully we’ll be able to find a place here like we did in Rockholm.” Lowering her head, Cadence placed her cheek on Shining’s back. “Why don’t we rest until they come back, I’m exhausted from that healing.”

“Open up!” The door swung open soundlessly, the white feathered head of a griffon peeking in. “It’s Jern and Red, we’ve come to show you to the meeting.” What Jern’s eyes found inside the room brought a smile to his beak. “Look at this Red,” He whispered over his shoulder.

Peeking inside as well, Red felt something tug at his heart when he saw Shining and Cadence, curled up together, fast asleep. “It reminds me of Ange,” He sighed. “I wonder where she’s right now.”

Red’s dreamy gaze was broken by a nudge from Jern. “You need to stop thinking so much about her, she’s long gone. Riding another ship to the other side of the desert. Now, how do you think we should wake them?”

“Just tap them with your wing Jern, Ilcit wouldn’t like it if you play tricks on the guests.”

His smile fading away, Jern shot a frown back at Red. “Fine, but this means I get to do something to you next time I find you sleeping.” Before Red could protest, Jern placed his chestnut wing on Shining’s shoulder, shaking gently to wake him.

“Wake up you two,” Red said once he saw Cadence’s eyes cracking open. “We’ve got a meeting to get to.”

Remembering where she was, Cadence lifted her head off Shining’s back before using her hooves to shake him awake. She could feel a warmth on her cheeks when she looked back at the pair of griffons. “We’ll be right out.”

Stepping back himself, Red was forced to pull Jern out of the doorway himself. “Give them some space. I know you’ve never really been in love before, so I’ll just tell you, you’re embarrassing them.”

“That’s the point.” Turning back to Red, Jern’s beak held a smile. “Making her blush like that is funny.”

Red shook his head as he sighed. “Sometimes I can see the humour in your jokes, and then there’s times like these.”

“Okay.” With a sleepy eyed Shining behind her, Cadence stepped from their small room and onto the walkway outside. “We’re ready to go.”

“Good, if we moved quickly we won’t be late.” Taking large stride forward, Red headed for one of the doors that led to the outside of the flying city, Jern at his side. “Now, be careful of what you say at this meeting, Rorack isn’t the only griffon who’s too close to Abigail to be making important decisions.”

Through the door and round another corner they went, the wind growing with each step they took towards the outer edges of the flying city. By the time they could see the desert below Cadence’s mane was a mess, the wind sending it in all directions.

The pair of griffons crouched low a few steps from the edge of the platform, waiting for Cadence and Shining to climb on.

“I can fly now,” Cadence reminded Red as Shining climbed onto Jern’s back. “Lead the way and I’ll follow.”

“Are you sure princess?” Concern was obvious in the creases of Red’s brow. “I wouldn’t want you to have a shaky landing again.”

“Alright.” Glancing over to Jern, Red nodded before spreading his wings. Moving to the side to give herself room, Cadence did the same, following Red moments after he leapt into the air.

It feels like I’m almost weightless, Cadence thought as she allowed the roaring wind to lift her higher and higher. If flying was always like this, I can see why Cloud and Skylight love it so much.

The cool night air sent shivers through Cadence’s body as she climbed the sky, only the moon bringing light to the deep blue expanse. Glancing downward, she spied a circle of shadows gathered in the same place she had landed earlier that day, a few firefly lamps giving them light.

She allowed Red to land first, then Jern, before dropping towards the wooden stage herself, careful to descend slowly this time.

“You’re finally here,” Ilcit said as they landed, her raised claw directing them toward an opening in the circle. “Now we are only waiting for one other before we begin.” Her eyes turned back up to the sky, scanning it for the last latecomer.

Taking her place in the circle beside Shining, Cadence allowed her gaze to roam the griffons around her, trying to pick out any she recognised. She found the silver and white griffon from earlier staring at her with a shy smile. Mila was her name, wasn’t it?

Before Cadence could lift her voice to ask, Ilcit spoke. “Here she is, late as always.”

The newest arrival descended at a speed that had Cadence gritting her teeth, before landing with a thump. How did she not break anything? A wide grin was plastered across the griffon’s beak, bright white feathers covered her head and neck, pitch black smothering the rest of her body.

“Why do you invite her to these meetings if she will not take it seriously?” A voice called across the circle.

Lifting her head, Cadence saw Rorack at the other end of the voice, disgust clear on his features.

Turning to meet Rorack’s eyes, the recent arrival only smiled. “Just because I’m not crying like a chick, doesn’t mean I’m not taking this seriously.” She took a step towards the griffon that towered over her, pointing a claw at him. “If you weren’t so emotional we’d get a lot more done.”

Rorack’s beak opened to reply, but Ilcit’s voice filled the air before he could utter a word. “Stop squabbling you two. Hidey, there is a free space at my side.” When Hidey had taken her place, Ilcit addressed the whole circle.

“It is a custom to begin our meetings with any reports of sightings, but today there is something else I want to draw your attention to.” Lifting a foreleg, Ilcit directed the attention of all towards the pony pair, although most were already staring. “The princess we were waiting for has arrived.”

“A little late,” Someone in the circle whispered to another, Cadence unable to pick out exactly where it had come from.

“Some might say that,” Ilcit continued. “But she has arrived now, bringing with her great power.”

Rorack took a step into the centre of the circle, every eye moving towards him. “How do we know this great power even exists? None of us have seen it. All we saw was her stumble and break a leg while landing.”

A tiny smile touched Ilcit’s beak at his words, so faint Cadence could not see it, but only hear it as she spoke. “And do you see any signs of that broken limb now? It it beyond my understanding how, but she has been healed in less than a day. Something that sounds impossible.”

Looking more closely at Cadence, Rorack noticed what Ilcit said was true. His teeth gritted at the fact. “Even so, how will great healing help us find Abigail?”

“This search, many think of it as impossible, don’t they?” Ilcit directed her words at the entire circle, before allowing her eyes to rest on Cadence. “This pony can make the impossible happen, she can find the one we have been searching for.”

Hearing Ilcit’s heavy words caused Cadence to draw in a deep breath, her mind working as she tried to ignore the weight of every eye upon her. Does she really think I can find this Abigail? I don’t know the first thing about searching.

One of the griffons at Rorack’s side took a step forward, Rorack moving back to give the white and oak brown griffon space. “How do we even know this pony has some magical power to locate Abigail? She hasn’t told us this, how do you know?”

Despite her want to aid the cause, Cadence wished for this new griffon’s words to win, for the immense pressure on her to be relieved. I don’t know how to find one griffon in such a massive desert.

“It appears you know little of the power a pony princess holds Hue,” Ilcit replied, her eyes still locked on Cadence. “They have the ability to locate anyone, anywhere, no matter how distant they are.”

Hue scoffed, shaking his head. “It appears you’ve had your beak in a book for too long again. There’s no way someone could pinpoint where Abigail is the in, I mean, across The Great Desert.”

Maybe Celestia could, but I have no idea how, Cadence thought, tempted to agree aloud with Hue’s words, but something held her tongue. A sensation of unease, like something did not fit. I must be imagining things.

Glancing sideways, she saw that Shining’s eyes were following the conversation closely, his features twisted with thought. Hopefully he has an idea of how to find her. So lost in thought, Cadence failed to hear the voice calling her name.

“Is it princess?” Ilcit’s second try caught Cadence’s attention.

“Is it what?” Creases scrunched up Cadence’s brow. What did she say before.

“Is it within your power to find the one we are searching for? Abigail.”

Cadence’s lips opened and the words, It is, almost left them, but she held herself back. What if I can’t find a way? I should tell them the truth. “Well, to be honest, I have no idea if I can or not. I’m still a new princess.”

“See,” Rorack lifted a foreleg towards Cadence. “You put all your faith in some mystical force, and it always turns out to be a disappointment. Let’s continue our meeting in a way that will actually get us somewhere. Lucy, did you see anything on your week’s scouting?”

The remainder of the meeting passed as a mumble of voices for Cadence, her mind not even registering what they were saying. Instead it focused entirely on the guilty feeling in the pit of her stomach. I’ve let them down.

She could feel eyes passing over her every now and then, some staying to look for longer. Without even meeting them she knew what they held. They’re disappointed, I would be as well. This magical princess before them can’t do anything but save herself. This must be what Shining feels like.

“If that is all,” It was Ilcit’s voice, bringing Cadence back from the depths of her mind. “Then this meeting is over.”

A buzz of voices filled the air followed by the beating of wings, most of the griffons leaving in the separate groups. Yet some stayed, one that was still behind was approaching Cadence.

Lifting her eyes towards the oncoming griffon, Cadence found a face she knew. It was the griffon of silver and white. “Your name’s Mila, right?” She asked once the griffon was close enough.

Nodding enthusiastically, Mila stopped uncomfortable close to Cadence, her beak almost touch a pink snout. “I wanted to say you shouldn’t feel like you let everyone down. No one was expecting you to save the day.”

“Well, thank you.” Cadence’s dull tone and the way her shoulders dropped showed how she actually felt about Mila’s words.

“Oh, no, no, no, no, no.” Mila shook her head just as energetically as she had nodded. “I didn’t mean it like that I, I always wanted to be a princess myself, a pony like you. Ever since Ilcit showed me her book about them. It’s so exciting to see a princess right in front of me.”

Feeling her cheeks warm with red, Cadence couldn’t help but smile. Oh, she’s so cute. I can’t believe, all the way out here, there’s someone who looks up to me. “Well, thank you.” Her gratitude was echoed in her voice and posture this time, widening the smile on Mila’s beak.

A few moments passed of Mila simply staring at Cadence, taking in every part of the creature she adored. “Oh, I’m sorry,” She said after some time. “I must be taking up your precious time. A princess must have important duties to return to.”

Cadence looked to Shining before turning her eye back to Mila. “No actually. We only got here today, and we have nothing to do but sleep.”

“Oh!” Excitement bloomed in Mila’s eyes for an instant before sorrow drowned it out. “I was thinking, no, it’s stupid. A princess doesn’t have time for such simple things.” Her head sunk, eyes lowering towards the ground.

“No, please tell me.” Cadence lifted a hoof and placed it lightly on Mila’s silver feathered shoulder. “Something to pass the time tonight would be good.” She glanced at Shining again, his eyes still lost deep in thought.

“Really?” A shiver ran through Mila’s body as she lifted her head to meet Cadence’s gaze. Seeing a nod, Mila left the ground with a leap, throwing Cadence’s hoof from her shoulder. “Yay, we’re going to have so much fun.”

Taking a step back from the outburst of joy, Cadence saw that it had woken Shining from his thoughtful slumber as well. His eyes were blinking rapidly, taking in the scene before him. Looking back to Mila, Cadence allowed the question on her tongue free. “So where are we going?”

What Mila answered with had Cadence shaking her head and Shining’s eyes popping from their sockets.

“The candy store.”

“So when you said the candy store, you didn’t mean a shop where you buy candy?” Cadence asked, looking around the room she had just entered. In behind her came Mila, and lastly Shining. The griffon, despite how small she looked, had been able to carry Shining down from the meeting platform.

Moving to stand beside Cadence, Mila shook her head. “No, but it’s the only place you can find such sweet things on the whole ship. So I like to call it that. It sounds better than, my room.”

Cadence could only smile to herself as Shining moved past her in a trance, his eyes fixed upon the lines and lines of candy hung from the ceiling. After a few more steps he stood still, tongue lolling freely from his mouth while he continued to stare.

Looking from Cadence to Shining and back in a series of darting head turns, Mila giggled. “He looks like he loves candy just as much as I do.”

“Well, maybe even more,” Cadence said, allowing her rump to fall to the floor. Sitting, she continued to study the room around her, many times larger than the one she and Shining had been given. “Do all griffons get rooms this big Mila?”

“No.” Mila shook her head frantically. “There wouldn’t be enough room on the ship for that. My father’s the captain, so he keeps a special room for me, with all my favourite things.” As she spoke she lifted a wing towards the ceiling, unhooking on of the striped canes of candy from its string.

Curiosity creased Cadence’s brow. “Was your father at the meeting? Is he one of the ones with Rorack?”

Shaking her head, Mila mumbled a reply through the rod of sugar in her beak. “Oo, he’s ot un of ose eanies.”

“I’m sorry, I can’t make out what you’re saying.”

Mila drew the can from her beak before repeating herself. “No, he’s not one of those meanies. He just listens, so he knows where to go. Those ones with Rorack are bad, they don’t like anyone.”

Something in what Mila had said broke Shining from his trance, drawing his head towards where she and Cadence sat. “What did you just say? About Rorack?”

“The two griffons who hang around Rorack. I don’t know why, but I can feel they’re not good.” A gasp left Mila’s beak, her eyes lighting up. “Maybe that’s one of my princess powers? Being able to tell who the bad griffons are.”

Cadence chuckled at Mila’s words. Princess powers, I should tell Celestia that one when we get back. Gently shaking her thoughts away, she turned her attention back to Mila and found Shining questioning her more.

“Have you ever met them before, does it seem like they’ve changed?”

Rolling her eyes upward, Mila shook her head. “No, but you look like you need some candy to calm down.” Lifting her wing again, Mila plucked two more of the hanging canes from the strings above.

Cadence politely refused hers so Shining took both, crunching over them with thought lining his brow deeply.

Glad to see him back to his old, dazed self, Cadence turned back to Mila. “Is there anything else you do for fun in this city?”

“City? Where?” Mila’s face twisted with question.

“Oh, I mean ship, that’s what you call it right?”

“Oh yes, that’s right.” Eyes going wide, Mila spread her wings out. “If this ship was my beak, then one of our cities would still be bigger than my wings.”

“Wow.” Cadence tried to picture what the ship she was on would look like if it were a hundred times the size, but her mind kept bringing up images of Rockholm. “Do you think we will be able to go there after we’ve found Abigail?”

Mila nodded in her overexcited way. “Of course. If you want I can show you my room there as well. It’s as big as this whole ship.”

The night passed with Cadence questioning Mila about her life, her family, and Mila poked back with questions every now and then as well. Shining sat to the side, lost in his thoughts.

Every so often Cadence would glance his way and wonder, Is he thinking he’s useless again? A moment’s look at his features told her no. The sorrow and doubt that had been in his face the past few days was gone, replaced with absolute concentration. Shining even seemed to forget about the sweets all around him.

Eventually Cadence felt yawns forming in her throat, the want to sleep weighing on her eyelids. Studying Mila’s face, she saw the griffon exhibited none of the tiredness she felt. She has been nibbling on candy all night. She allowed a yawn free as she waited for Mila to finish speaking.

“Do you think maybe one day I could become a princess? I want you to answer truly.”

Despite how sleepy she was, Cadence couldn’t hold back the smile that spread across her lips. “Truly? I think you’re a princess of another kind Mila. Anyway, we need to get some sleep, I can’t be staying up all night again.”

“Oh, don’t go.” Mila rose as Cadence did, her foreleg outstretched and her eyes longing.

Cadence almost felt guilty as she shook her head. “I’m sorry, but we really need some sleep.” She stepped towards Shining, nudging him from his thoughts with a hoof. “Come on, we need to go.”

“Go?” A jolt ran through Shining’s body as his eyelids fluttered, taking in the room around him. “Didn’t we just get here?”

“You really were lost in your head, weren’t you.” Lowering her muzzle to his, she nudged him again. “It’s quite late, and I was telling Mila we need to get some sleep?”

As if the word had reminded his body what it was craving, a drawn out yawn opened Shining’s jaw, and held it there for a few moments. “Sleep?” He mumbled once the yawn had passed. “That sounds good.”

Mila moved with the pony pair towards the door, her eyes captured by the way Cadence’s head rested against Shining’s shoulder. “You’ll come back tomorrow won’t you? I still have so much to learn before I can become a princess.”

“Mila, I-” Cadence bit her tongue before the rest of the words could escape. I don’t think you can ever become a princess like me? Looking deep into those pleading grey eyes, she knew she couldn’t break Mila’s heart. What do I say then?

“Mila?” A knock on the door followed the voice, Cadence’s lungs filling with relief at the distraction. “Can we come in?”

Wait, I know that voice. Cadence’s eyes lit up when the answer came to her. Jern.

“Not now,” Mila answered. “I’ve got special guests. Come back another time.”

A chuckle reverberated through the door, its owner easy to identify. Red, Cadence knew, the smile of her lips growing.

“So you are holding the princess captive?” Jern’s tone clearly said his words were a joke, but Mila’s face scrunched with a frown anyway.

“No, she came because I asked. We’ve been talking about secret things all night.” The frown on Mila’s face faded to make way for a smile as she looked away from the door and to Cadence, giving the pony a wink.

“Well,” Cadence butted in when she heard Jern taking a breath, clearly thinking of a way to convince Mila. “We should be going now. Jern and Red can show us back to our room.”

“No, you can’t go yet.” Placing a claw on Cadence’s shoulder, Mila gently tugged her away from the door. Her smile had faded, replaced with desperate pleading Cadence knew she couldn’t say no to.

A sigh left Cadence’s lips when she deduced the easiest way to leave the room. “We’ll come visit you tomorrow night, I promise.”

Light leapt back into Mila’s eyes at Cadence’s words, her smile coming back to life once more. “Okay, I’ll see you tomorrow princess.” She gave Cadence another wink before opening the door and allowing the pony pair to escape.

Once outside, Cadence allowed a sigh of relief to leave her lungs, causing Jern to snigger and Red to chuckle.

“Lucky we were there to rescue you from the madhouse,” Jern said, a claw on his beak holding back laughter. “We should have warned you about Mila, I don’t know how something that crazy came from a griffon like Bami.”

Despite the uncomfortable pressure Mila had put on Cadence, her jaw dropped at Jern’s accusations. “How can you say something like that? She’s such a sweet griffon.”

“We should get going,” Red cut in before Jern could answer, motioning the other three along with his foreleg.

Jern walked beside Cadence, the humour now gone from his face. “I know she might seem that way at first, trust me, she wooed me for a few weeks with that chickish attitude. Once you get to know her,you see it’s not just an act she puts on, she’s crazy for real!”

“Shhh.” Red waved a claw a Jern, motioning for him to be quiet. “You had a bad breakup with her, your feelings are probably twisting your memories.”

“No, she really thinks that she can become a princess.” Grinding his teeth, Jern tried to bring an example to mind. “Like every morning, she does some crazy rituals that make her more like a pony. She even copies how the ponies act in the books she has, crazy.”

A small part of Cadence’s mind felt some truth in Jern’s words, knew that without intervention from Celestia herself, Mila would never be a princess. Yet even more of her want to believe in the dreaming desires of the griffon. It reminded her of a certain purple filly.

“It’s not crazy for her to think like that,” Cadence said, her lips lifting with a weak smile. “Many fillies dreams of being a princess one day. It’s simply what she wants to be the most.”

“Fillies?” Brow creased with confusion, Jern shot a look back at Cadence.

“That’s what we call young mares.”

“Mares?” Jern scrunched up his eyes and shook his head. “It doesn’t matter what fancy pony words you use, a griffon wanting to be a pony is wrong. Something went wrong in that head somewhere, and I want to stay away from it.”

Seeing there was no arguing with Jern, Cadence’s only response was to sigh.

Silence accompanied the four as they moved around the edges of the ship, not seeing a soul along the way.

Eventually Shining broke the silence. “Where is everybody? It seemed like there was far more griffons walking around earlier.”

Red shared a chuckle with himself before answering. “You don’t know how late it is do you? The only griffons awake right now are us, and the ones on guard.”

“Oh, we’re so sorry for keeping you up,” Cadence said, concern obvious in her voice. “Having that nap really messed with our sense of time.”

“Don’t be.” Unable to see Red’s face, Cadence could still hear the smile in his voice. “It gives us an excuse to miss our shift tomorrow morning. Orders from Ilcit come before everything on this ship.”

“Is she above the captain?” Shining asked, curiosity lining his brow deeply.

“Yes, and no. She’s been around long enough to know almost every griffon in the desert, the ones that count at least. The chief puts her in charge of important missions like this because he knows he can trust her. She doesn’t have any titles such as captain, or admiral however.”

Nodding along, Shining allowed the silence to settle before speaking again. “Who is Rorack then? Someone very close to Abigail I can tell, but who exactly is he.”

“He’s the chief’s son, Abigail’s brother.” Red shook his head. “That’s why he’s so high strung all the time. In his mind every moment Abigail isn’t found is a moment of him failing his father.”

Shining’s questions stopped after that, and the rest of the way to their rooms passed in silence.

Stopping at the door, Red pushed it open before allowing Shining and Cadence space to step inside. “Oh, one last thing,” He said before Shining closed the door. “Ilcit wants to have lunch with you tomorrow, talk without having to keep the chicks quiet, as she says. We’ll be here to pick you up a little before then.”

When the door clicked shut, Cadence allowed herself to fall into the waiting embrace of the mattress below. “Do we need the tent tonight?” Her words snapped Shining out of another thought, sending a jolt through his body.

“I, we should.” Lighting his horn, Shining brought the ethereal shelter to life, small enough to fit inside their already tiny room. “There’s something that doesn’t feel right in this ship, I wouldn’t sleep easy knowing we were exposed.”

Seeing Shining’s mind come back to the world reminded Cadence of how much he had been thinking that day. “You’ve seemed a little absent today,” She said as he lay beside her. “Are you thinking again?”

“Yes.” It took Shining a moment to register the concern in Cadence’s voice. “Oh, not about those things anymore.” He leant towards her, placing his lips on hers. “I think you’ve cured me of that. I was just thinking of a way to find Abigail.”

Cadence sighed at the mention of the search. “Well, I would love it if you could figure out something. It seems that Ilcit has placed all her hopes in me, but I’m not Celestia. I have no idea how to use this supposed searching magic.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Lifting his muzzle, Shining gave Cadence another kiss, this time at the base of her horn. “Right now we need some sleep.”

“Mmmhmm.” Cadence allowed her head to rest against Shining’s shoulder and her eyes to close. “Maybe everything will be clear in the morning?”

More Than the Eye Can See

Pressing, pressing, pressing. Cadence could feel the weight, closing in all around her.

“Hhh.” She woke with a gasp, eyelids fluttering open to find the ethereal blue ceiling above. Everything’s fine, One part of her mind told her. Yet she could still feel it, the weight of something, something not right.

Lifting her head lightly from Shining’s shoulder, she glanced around the room. Everything seems fine, but..

A scuttling came from outside their door, fading with each moment. The sound had Cadence holding her breath till it had departed from her ears. What was that? Images of pure terror crept into her mind, from giant spiders to living vines, most of them conjured from Cloud’s card game.

Shaking her head, she tried to laugh at her fear. “It’s probably nothing,” Cadence told herself aloud. “Maybe one of the griffons on duty was passing by.” She placed her head back on Shining’s shoulder and closed her eyes, willing herself back to sleep.

Yet moments drifted by and she was still staring at the backs of her eyelids, waiting for the scuttling sound to return. What was out there, and why did it go away as soon as I woke?

After straining her ears for so long, Cadence felt a pain building in her head. It really must have been nothing. She released her breath slowly, feeling her body relax and the warmth of sleep creeping into her mind once more.

“Are you two awake yet?” The voice was followed by a knock, stirring Cadence from the depths of her dreams.

“There is something there!” She exclaimed as her eyes opened and head shot upright. Glancing towards the door, she expected to find a monster standing there, but instead saw the door was still closed. Shoulders sinking, she lowered her head to Shining’s shoulder once again. “I must have been dreaming it.”

A sigh came from behind the door that perked Cadence’s head and ears upright again. “There is someone here, it’s Red. I’ve come to bring you to your meeting with Ilcit.”

“Red?” It took Cadence a moment to recall why the name was familiar. “Oh, I’m so sorry, we’re both still asleep. Can you give us a moment.”

“Sure, we have some time before the sun hits its peak.”

Turning back to Shining, Cadence leant forward and placed her lips on his cheek, hoping he would wake with ease this morning. She let a sigh escape his lips when she saw her touch had no effect. “He can’t blame me for not trying.”

“Did you say something?” Red’s voice came from outside.

“Well, yes. I was talking to Shining.” As she lit her horn, Cadence couldn’t hold back the smile on her muzzle.

“Oh, sorry for interrupting. I’ll be on the corner.”

Cadence heard his claws and paws slowly move away while she whispered under her breath. It was a spell she had memorised over their journey. A ball of water was forming over Shining’s head with each word she muttered, a bubble waiting to pop.

In her sleepiness, Cadence failed to see a drip escape from her blue glow, the speck of water landing on Shining’s head. It seeped through his thin coat and made contact with his head, a tiny spark to start the fire of waking in his mind.

“Why is it wet?” He murmured, still half-asleep.

The smile on Cadence’s lips grew at Shining’s words. “There’s no escaping this one.” She positioned the water carefully, so it would splash between his ears and run both over his face and down his back.

“Wet?” Shining murmured again, his head shifting slightly, almost touching Cadence’s ball of water as it did so. “Wet!” Head shooting upright as he spoke, Shining’s eyes opened halfway, only to close tight again once his head made contact with the water right above it.

Unable to react in time, Cadence held the water in place for a moment for two, allowing Shining to submerge his head completely. Realising he water awake, she silenced her horn, allowing the water to spill over his body.

Shining took a deep breath the moment his mouth was free from the water. “Wha-” All he could do was shake his head and suffer as the water slowly ran off his body and soaked the mattress below.

Caught in the splash herself, Cadence stood and sprung back from the wet stallion, giggling the whole time. “I tried to wake you up gently,” She said between bursts of giggles. “But it didn’t work.”

Panting, half with fright and half from losing his breath to the water, Shining turned his head to glare at Cadence. “Why are we awake this early anyway?”

“Early?” Cadence shook her head. “It’s almost noon. Red and Jern have come to take us to our lunch with Ilcit.”

“Oh.” Shining lit his horn, wiping his face and body down with magic as he stood. Where a frown had previously rested on his lips there was now a smile. “Let’s go then, I’m starving.”

Cadence followed Shining as he headed for the door, feeling a wet sensation on her hooves as she passed over the place where he had been lying. I forgot we have a mattress there now. Well, hopefully it dries when by tonight.

By the time Cadence had closed the door behind her, Red was approaching them. “Where is Jern?” She asked once he was standing before them, curiosity furrowing her brow.

“He decided not to come.” Red motioned for them to follow him with a claw before stepping towards the nearest exit. “There only needs to be one of us here to carry Shining, and he wants to take the time off to-” He sighed, giving his head a shake before continuing. “Work on a bird he has his eye on.”

“Doesn’t everyone on the ship have something they have to be doing?” Shining questioned. “I never see anyone sitting around relaxing.”

Although she could not see his beak, Cadence could hear the smirk in Red’s voice. “That’s exactly why you don’t see them, everyone does have something to do. It’s a big ship though, the ones who want to avoid eyes always find places to hide.”

The three of them were standing outside now, the never ending wind greeting them with a gust.

“Are we going up to the same spot as yesterday?” Cadence asked as Red crouched for Shining to climb atop him. The wind had her wings excited, the expanses of pink feathers spread out, ready for flight. “Because I want to have a little flight before we get there.”

Shining now on his back, Red looked up and smiled at Cadence. “We’re going somewhere else, but you should be able to loop around without getting too far behind. Don’t stay up there too long though, some griffons waste days, even weeks in the skies around here.”

“Well don’t worry, I love Shining too much to ever leave him alone for that long.” A step towards the edge and Cadence leapt, allowing the wind to carry her upwards. Turning, she saw Red jump into the air moments behind her, his ascent slowed by Shining’s weight.

Both above the ship now, Cadence trailed Red as he flew across the top, heading for the pointed front end.

As she sailed over, Cadence’s eyes were locked on the arrangement of wood and feathers below. How does this thing fly? She thought, only able to pick out tiny wings, at least compared to the ship. Those must be as big as Ember’s wings.

Red’s easy pace gave Cadence time to enjoy the freedom of her wings. Soon she was looping around the burdened griffon, diving down towards the ship and back up over them. Warmth ran from the base of her wings to the tips, urging her to fly faster.

So this is why Cloud and Skylight spend so much time up here. She could feel the grin on her lips, so wide wind was gushing inside and drying out her mouth. Looking back towards Shining and Red, Cadence noticed they were descending towards the ship once more. Well, I should go join them.

They landed upon one of the dozens of balconies poking out from the ship’s side, its high walls creating a bubble of still within.

“It is good to see you came,” Ilcit said as they landed, stepping from the doorway she was waiting within. “Before we talk about any serious matters, please, come inside. I have had some food prepared for you.”

Off of Red’s back and standing on the balcony now, Shining’s head perked up at the mention of food. His tongue hung freely from his mouth as he followed Cadence inside, eyes searching for the promised meal. A sigh left his lips and neck drooped at what he saw however.

Seeing Shining’s change in mood, Ilcit’s brow furrowed. “Are you disappointed with the room prince? I asked for the smallest they could give me.” Despite what she said, Ilcit’s room was still a dozen times larger than the one Shining and Cadence shared.

“Well, no,” Cadence said once she saw Shining was not answering, her eyes were locked on the baskets before them as she spoke. “He isn’t too fond of the seeds we had yesterday. We’re used to food with a little more filling.”

“Don’t worry then.” Ilcit smiled as she plucked a nut from one of the baskets, crunching it in her claw before swallowing the bits. “These are peanuts roasted with honey, far tastier than sesame seeds.”

Intrigued, Shining took a step towards one of the baskets. “Honey? Does that mean they are sweet?”

“A little, but they also hold such a rich flavour it completes the meal.” Ilcit took another and ate it the same way. “Please eat till you are full.” Stepping towards the door they had came through, Ilcit whispered some words to Red before returning to her guests.

Seeing Red leave, Cadence lifted her voice over the crunching of Shining tasting the nuts. “Why does he have to go?”

Ilcit drew in a deep breath, releasing it as she moved to Cadence’s side. “As much as I trust Red, there are some things I can not risk reaching the wrong ears. Now please eat princess.” Stepping forward, Ilcit joined Shining at one of the baskets.

Joining the two, Cadence could hardly taste the peanuts, her mind full of thought. What could she possibly tell us, ponies she met yesterday, that she can’t tell Red? Maybe she doesn’t trust Red? He’s so kind thought, I can’t imagine why she doesn’t trust him.

“Princess, prince?” Ilcit’s voice broke Cadence from her thoughts and drew her eyes towards the grey-blue and white griffon. “There is one thing I must do before we speak, I will be back in a moment. Please help yourselves.”

Moving across the room, Ilcit headed for the inner door. Shining managed to catch a brief glimpse of the hallways behind it as she left.

“Do you think there’s something off about Ilcit?” Shining whispered once he could no longer hear the griffon’s steps. “She seems so suspicious.”

Cadence finished her mouthful before speaking. “Well, she does have a reason to be. Ponies stole their Abigail before, maybe she thinks we’ve come to take someone else?”

“Mmm.” Shining continued to crunch through peanuts as he thought. “Whatever she has to say, these nuts are better than I thought.” Swallowing, he felt the dryness of his throat. “I wonder where she keeps the water though.”

“Ask her when she-” Hearing steps approaching from the door Ilcit had left, Cadence paused. “You can ask her now.”

Ilcit’s features seemed lacking in all emotion when she stepped back in. “We have complete privacy now, but I would still keep your voices low. Words travel a long way in a ship like this.”

“Uh, do you have any water?” Shining asked, swirling his tongue around his mouth in attempt to rid it of the dry sensation.

“Of course.” Ilcit lifted a claw, directing their eyes to the wall beside the door. “The gourds on the left hooks are full. Do not take too much however, we need to ration our water so far away from home.”

As Shining lit his horn and brought one of the gourds to his lips, Ilcit turned to Cadence. “Now princess, although you demonstrated how rapid you can heal yesterday, many on this ship still doubt you. Some are saying you faked your injury to trick us into thinking you have power you do not.”

Cadence watched Ilcit inch closer to her as she spoke. The emotion held in the in the griffon’s face caused Cadence to take a step backward. Does she doubt me also? Remembering the excuses she had produced the previous day, she sighed. I can’t blame her.

“Is something wrong princess?” Ilcit now stood so close her chest was touching Cadence, one of her wings reaching for Cadence’s side. “Are the doubts they hold true? That you really are another fake come to rob us again?”

Drawing in a breath, Cadence noticed the world before her seemed to slow, a cold sensation where Ilcit’s wing touched her shoulder. It’s like when Ember almost took my head off, but why now? No one’s trying to kill me.

She could feel a tingling warmth in her shoulder, pushing back the cold there. Is this Celestia again? Is she going to help me find Abigail? Yet a moment passed and all that changed was the feeling in Cadence’s shoulder, the cold was now gone, replaced by an overflowing warmth.

Slowly, before Cadence even realised it was happening, Ilcit’s wings was pushed away from her side, the griffon forced back a few steps from her. Cadence felt her lungs release the breath they had been holding and saw a wave of glowing gold shove Ilcit up against the far wall.

“Cadence?” Water exploded from Shining’s mouth as he moved to her side, dousing her neck. “What happened?”

On the other side of the room now, Ilcit’s features widened with shock momentarily, her beak hanging wide in foalish awe. The moment passed quickly however, and her face soon returned to its usual calm, observing expression. “Yes princess, was that your true power?”

Before Cadence could answer something clattered to the wooden floor, a step or two from Ilcit, drawing the eyes to all three towards it. A gasp filled Cadence’s lung when she realised what it was, what Celestia had saved her from.

“Were you trying to kill me?” Lighting her horn, Cadence plucked the short blade from the floor, one side of it covered in wood as not to hurt the wing it was held within.

“No.” Ilcit chuckled. “I merely wanted to see this miraculous healing power for myself. It would have only been a small stab.”

Shock had stolen both ponies’ words, but Shining took a step forward out of instinct, hiding Cadence’s body behind his.

“What you’ve shown me is far greater than any power I imagined the pony princesses possessed.” Ilcit lifted her claw, pointing out where she had once stood and where she was now. “You stopped my blade and threw me back before I even knew what had happened, how?”

Finding her tongue, Cadence’s voice shook as she spoke over Shining’s shoulder. “Wh-Why? Why did you have to try stabbing me with this?” She held the blade between Shining and Ilcit. “Couldn’t you have asked?”

“Asked to thrust a blade into you?” Ilcit chuckled. “Who would ever let me do that to them? It had to be a surprise.”

“No, I mean.” Drawing a pained breath, Cadence stepped forward so she could lay her head on Shining’s shoulder. “Why would you test my magic with something like this. Why couldn’t I try healing one of the injured griffons on this ship?”

“And risk one of those under me losing their mind?” Ilcit muttered, so quiet neither Shining nor Cadence could hear.

“What did you say?” Shining’s eyes perked up, his horror washed away by interest.

“Nothing. It had to be you though, otherwise I wouldn’t have seen this, whatever you did.” Pushing the hints of excitement from her voice and face, Ilcit continued. “Now tell me, if you really wanted to help us, why would you hide your real power from us?”

This will be best if I show her, Cadence thought, stepping from behind Shining. “It’s not my power.” Seeing disbelief twist Ilcit’s features, Cadence held up a hoof before the griffon could refute her. “Look at my horn, it’s blue. The magic you saw moments ago was gold.”

Ilcit shook head head. “That proves nothing. One powerful enough to do what you did before I could blink surely can change the color of their magic. Also, if it wasn’t you, who was it?”

“Celestia.”

The blue eyes of Ilcit went wide for a moment before she recovered with a smirk. “Are you meaning to fool me princess? Even if she could reach this far, how would she know you were in…” Ilcit’s voice trailed off, her eyes widening once more.

“Know I’m in danger? I don’t know,” Cadence admitted, her head shaking.

“A pony princess can locate another being through many means.” The words came from Ilcit’s mouth as if she were reading them from a book. “Traces of everyone are left where they go, so if the princess can pinpoint that trace and trail it, she can find anyone.”

“So she can keep watch over me anywhere?”

Ilcit nodded. “That’s what I’ve read in books, I was hoping that you would know how. Hoping that you would be able to find Abigail, but if it truly was Celestia who saved you. I wonder if there is a way she can find Abigail?”

“Well even if there was.” Turning her head towards the balcony door, Cadence allowed her eyes to stare at the sky. “I have no idea how to… What is happening outside?” Breaking into a trot, Cadence moved towards the door and spread her wings, leaping into the sky without thinking.

She could hear the shouting of half a hundred voices all around, but her mind took no notice of them, it was occupied completely with the sight before her. A rainbow, but not like those that formed after a storm.

This one was a wave of color, spreading over the desert sky like water rolling up the beach. Cadence felt an immense warmth rush through her body as it passed overhead, her horn lighting on its own, her eyes glazing over.

For a moment she was back in Canterlot, peeking into one of the dozens of rooms at the academy for young unicorns. What she saw stole her breath away. Twilight? Celestia? Twilight was absorbed in an aura of purple, and a great scaled leg was blocking Cadence’s view of the rest of the room.

Since when have they had dragons in Canterlot? Cadence watched as Celestia laid a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder, speaking words Cadence could not hear. The overflow of magic coming from Twilight died away, and the scene faded before Cadence’s eyes.

A blink and she was back in the desert, watching the rainbow as it flew for the horizon opposite the one it had come from. Cadence’s mind had long forgotten the rainbow however. I saw them, all that way. Twilight and Celestia.

Wanting to tell Shining, Cadence turned to find Ilcit hovering beside her. The griffon motioned with her head for them to head back to the balcony before beating her wings, Cadence following close behind.

“Shining.” Cadence couldn’t contain her excitement as she landed, diving right into Shining and hugging him to the ground. “I saw them.”

“Yes I saw the rainbow t-” Shining’s brow furrowed when he realised what Cadence had said. “Wait, you saw them? Saw who?”

“Did you see Abigail?” Ilcit asked, drawing Cadence’s eyes up to her.
Cadence shook her head, wind tangled mane dancing around her head. “No,” Turning, she met Shining’s eyes again. “I saw Twilight, and Celestia. They were both in the same room, and Twilight was doing some crazy magic. I think Celestia is teaching her.”

The lines of confusion of Shining’s brow only deepened. “You saw Twilight? All the way back in Canterlot? How?”

“Well, I don’t know.” Taking a breath, a moment to think over what had happened, Cadence shook her head. “How did I see them?”

Unable to see the smile on Ilcit’s beak, Cadence could hear it in her voice as she spoke. “So you can see all the way back to where Celestia lives, all the way back to where you come from. Surely you can locate a single griffon in this desert?”

Looking back to Ilcit, Cadence allowed a sigh to escape her lips. “If I could locate Abigail, I would do it for you. I don’t know how I did this, or if I’ll ever be able to do it again. If I could do this again, I don’t know how to find someone I’ve never seen before.”

“Don’t worry princess, we are looking for Abigail ourselves, but if you could simply try to repeat what you have done today. Your power would be a great help.” Ilcit glanced into her room, thinking for a moment before she turned back to the pony pair. “That was all I wanted to discuss with you. Wait on the balcony, I will have Red come take you back to your room.”

Shining waited for Ilcit to disappear into the ship before speaking. “Did you really see Twilight?” The excitement in his voice was obvious. “Has she grown much? Were mom and dad there?”

Placing a hoof on Shining’s lips, Cadence stopped the overflow of questions. “Well, I didn’t see your parents, but Twilight looked like she had grown a lot. She was with Celestia, and they were doing something with magic.”

“Really?” A wide grin had taken hold of Shining’s muzzle, his eyes glazed over with images of Twilight. “Maybe she’s Celestia’s student, just like you were.”

“Maybe.” Looking up at the sky, Cadence tried to imagine the tiny Twilight learning under Celestia’s wing, but all she could see was herself. “Celestia always made me work so hard with my magic, I don’t know if Twilight could take it.”

“She’s a hard worker, always the top of her class in studies.”

“Mmmhmm.” Cadence nodded, a smile coming to her lips. “Maybe she’ll do fine. If only there was some way I could have talked to them, asked them what has happened since we’ve been gone.”

Shining sighed, the grin on his muzzle fading somewhat. “It’s been a whole year hasn’t it?”

“Mmm,” Cadence murmured again. “We barely noticed the winter passing in Rockholm, it was always so hot there.”

Inhaling again, Shining let out another breath. “I can barely remember what living at home was like. What did we used to do all day?”

“Play games?” Cadence rolled her eyes into her head as she tried to bring the old memories to life. “Well, you had guard academy as well, and I was always learning from Celestia. It all seems like so little to what we’ve done in the last year.”

In the depths of her mind, Cadence heard a knocking at the door, drawing her eyes into Ilcit’s room. “Red’s here, are you ready to go back to our room?”

Looking into Ilcit’s room as well, Shining felt his mouth water when he saw the baskets of peanuts. “Maybe after I’ve eaten a little more.”

Ilcit was kind enough to give Shining a small basket of the nuts, which Cadence carried as they flew back to their room.

“I know it isn’t my place to ask,” Red said once they had landed and were inside once more. “But if you can let me in on some secrets, what did she talk about?”

As much as I trust Red, there are some things I can not risk reaching the wrong ears. Cadence heard Ilcit’s words in her head before she could speak, and they had her pause. Maybe there’s a reason why she didn’t want Red to hear?

“I can see you don’t want to say.” A small smile touched Red’s beak as he shook his head. “Don’t worry, if I need to know I’ll find out.”

“No, I should tell you.” I trust Red more than I can trust the one who tried to stab me. “Have you heard Ilcit talk about a pony princess’s ability to see those far away?” When she saw Red nod, Cadence continued. “Well, I managed to do that today, I saw two ponies I know well, all the way back in Canterlot.”

Red’s smile grew, but there was disbelief in his face. “How do you know what you saw was what was actually happening? Are you sure you didn’t imagine it?”

“Well-” Cadence paused. What if it was only a dream? Maybe that rainbow put me to sleep? No. She shook her head without realising. I was still flying, I couldn’t have been asleep. “It felt real, more real than any dream I’ve ever had, and even if it isn’t real. I want to try and help.”

“She wants you to locate Abigail with it?”

Cadence nodded, prompting Red to continue.

“Good luck then, I just don’t feel comfortable relying on such a mysterious power.” With that Red stopped. “Here’s your room, if you need any more food, ask one of the griffons passing by. I hope you can find Abigail.” He turned back the way he had came and disappeared around the corner.

Alone in their room once more, Cadence dismissed their tent before sitting, only to spring back up again. “Ah!” Seeing the surprise in Shining’s features, she point at the mattress below with a smile. “It’s still wet.”

“Really?” Stepping forward, Shining placed his hoof on the dark patch of mattress to confirm what Cadence said. “We’ve never had a…” His voice trailed off as he shook his head. “This mattress isn’t made of magic is it.”

“No, the water usually goes right through our mattress doesn’t it?”

“Mmm, it can’t be too hard to dry out. We just need to get it outside.” Shining lit his horn and lifted a corner of the mattress, before realising there was no way it would fit through the door. “How did they get it in here anyway?”

“Well, there’s no need to worry.” Lighting her horn, Cadence conjured their usual blue mattress on top of the sodden one. “We can use this till it dries. There’s more important things to worry about than a wet mattress. I need to focus.” She stretched and shaped the mattress before sitting.

Shining sat as well, facing her. “I don’t think you need to push yourself into this Cadence. I’m sure Abigail will be found without your help.” There was a hint of concern in his voice, but it was drowned out by the overwhelming confidence.

“Are you sure?” Picking the confidence out of Shining’s words, Cadence found herself confused. “Did you hear something about them finding her?”

“No, but,” Shining glanced backward, eyeing the door behind him for a moment before shaking his head. “Don’t worry about what I said,” He said aloud, before moving his lips close to Cadence’s ear. “I can’t tell you everything, I’m worried about who’s listening, but I think I might have a clue about where Abigail is, or at least who knows her location.”

Cadence drew a breath to exclaim her excitement, before her mind processed everything Shining had said. She released it slowly before pressing her lips into his ear. “I’m so proud of you, figuring out the problem a day after arriving, and I don’t doubt you, but I want to search for her my way as well.”

“That would be best, if anyone is watching it would look strange if we were doing nothing when you had said you were going to help.”

Watching? The word sparked a memory in Cadence’s mind. “I think there may have been someone watching us this morning.”

“Know what?”

Shining replied with a smile. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll tell you everything when I’ve figured it all out. Just practice you princess powers. I’ll give you some time to yourself.” With that he rolled onto his side and closed his eyes.

Give me some time to myself. Cadence couldn’t help but roll her eyes at Shining’s words. Well, it is what I need right now. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and focused on the flow of magic inside her, trying to recapture the sensation that had overtaken her before.

Warm, it was warm all throughout my body. Like magic wasn’t flowing through just my horn, but through every part of my body. She tried to form a spark of magic in her chest, focusing on it much like she did with her horn.

Yet many deep breaths later, all Cadence had managed to do was send a burst of sparks from her horn. Maybe that wasn’t it? What else happened when the rainbow passed over me? She thought back to the moment, trying to recreate every sensation that her body had felt.

My eyes! Something happened to them. Lighting her horn, Cadence focused her spark on her eyes, hoping the answer would simply come to her. However, the only thing she achieved was a headache.

Silencing her horn, Cadence rubbed the side of her head with a hoof, trying to clear some of the pain away while she thought. There must be something else. Yet no matter how many times she tried to pick apart the memory, nothing else stood out.

Maybe there’s something in what Celestia wrote? Surely she would have written down such an important spell? Ignoring the slight pain between her eyes Cadence lit her horn once more, lifting her saddlebags towards her.

The stacks of paper were stuffed down the side, stained with bits of blue and red and filled with crumbs. I hope I haven’t ruined anything important. Searching the the stacks, Cadence found none of the pages were damaged beyond readability, thankfully.

None of them held the answer to her question however, none of them hinted at a spell only the princesses could perform. One that could find anyone. It has to be here, Cadence thought, and continued her search.

A knock sounded on the door. “Are you two awake?”

The voice caused Cadence to look up from the papers she was reading through. She had studied almost every page closely, yet still the mysterious spell evaded her. “Well, I am, but Shining’s asleep.”

Cadence heard Red chuckle before answering. “He always seems to be. Anyway it’s almost sunset so the nightly meeting is soon. Ilcit wants you there, I think she’s expecting you to talk about the power you discovered.”

“Is it really almost sunset?” Cadence looked back down at the stack of papers. How long have I been looking for this spell?

“Yes, Jern and I were going to eat before the meeting. Do you two want to come?”

At the mention of food, Cadence heard Shining shifting beside her. Lifting her eyes towards him, she saw he was sitting straight up, features wary. “As long as it isn’t any of those sesame seeds,” He whispered.

Hearing Shining’s whisper, Red sighed, Jern the one to chuckle this time. “I told you you’re the only one who likes those seeds,” Cadence could hear Jern say, and another bout of laughter followed.

Red sighed again. “There are plenty of respectable griffons, ah, why am I trying to argue with you anyway.” He lifted his voice. “I promise we won’t have sesame seeds, you two can pick.”

“Pick?” Shining stood up and opened the door before Cadence could put away Celestia’s writings. “Let’s go!”

“Well, can you give me a moment to pack away my things?” Cadence asked, reminding Shining she still existed.

As he glanced back at Cadence, a guilty smile replaced the eager one on Shining’s lips. “Sorry, of course we can wait. Sometimes my stomach does the thinking for me.”

It took Cadence a few moments to shift their food around so her bags had a pocket free solely for Celestia’s writings. Shining made sure none of the precious pastries were damaged in the process.

Soon they were outside the ship, Shining atop Red’s back and Cadence and Jern flying beside them. Red led them towards one of the ship’s lower openings before landing.

“So is this where all the food is kept?” Shining asked as they were walking inside.

The question sparked a light in Jern’s eye. “Instead of thinking of it as a storeroom, think of it as a small town, where everything is dedicated to food and drink.”

Shining’s eyes lit up in the same way Jern’s did. “Do they have a sweet store here?”

Confusion crossed Jern’s features. “No, but they have something far better.”

“A bakery?”

“Yes, but that wasn’t what I was talking about.” They were approaching a small crowd of griffons now, Jern leading the way and Shining at his side. “The ship’s cook brew his very own beer. It’s some of the best stuff in the whole desert.”

Behind Shining and Jern, Cadence and Red walked side by side, Red unable to keep the smirk from his beak. “Is Shining much of a drinker?”

“Well, we’ve had cider a few times, but his parents never let him have too much.”

“You’re kidding me? His parents won’t let him have too much?” Red shook his head. “How old are you two?”

“I was,” Cadence rolled her eyes into her head, thinking. “Nineteen years old when we left, and he was seventeen. It’s summer right?” At Red’s nod, she continued. “Then he’s nineteen and I’m twenty.”

“Wow.” Red allowed a breath to slowly leave his lungs as he shook his head. “So young and you’re already exploring the world. I wish I was the same.”

Cadence looked at Red, her eyes questioning. “Aren’t you the same age as we are?”

Her words brought another chuckle from Red’s lips. “Try a decade older, and still I’ve gotten nowhere with my life. Don’t take this as an insult, but it’s embarrassing that I’m looking after the prince and princess.”

“Well,” At the edge of the crowd now, Cadence had stopped moving, her eyes following Shining as he trailed Jern inside. “You’ve been kind to us, and in my mind that’s worth more than if you were the chief of all the griffons.”

Eyes still on Jern and Shining, Cadence watched as the griffon scurried out of the crowd, Shining at his tail.

“You really are wise-”

“We better move on,” Jern said, cutting Red off before he could finish. “The griffons here aren’t the nicest.”

Red shook his head. “Another misunderstanding with Ode?”

Glancing back into the crowd, at angry eyes still waiting for him to leave, Jern grimaced. “Something like that, I can’t really remember what happened. He’ll calm down in a few days though, let’s move onto something else.”

By now Shining’s nose had already led him away from the group, towards where steam wafted from an open counter.

“Well, it looks like Shining has found something,” Cadence pointed out directing their eyes with her hoof.

“Bread?” Jern’s grimaced deepened. “You ponies sure have strange tastes.”

Lifting a claw, Red tapped Jern on the head. “Stop complaining and come have something to eat.”

“So would you like a loaf seasoned with herbs? Maybe one sweetened with honey?” The griffon at the counter was already talking Shining through every bit of bread by the time the other three were at his side.

Shining’s gleaming blue eyes bounced back and forth between the half-dozen different choices, Red whispering in his ear. “You definitely should try the loaf with herbs, it’s like an adventure for your mouth.”

“Can we have one of each?” Shining asked after a moment, drawing surprise to the server’s face.

The surprise was soon washed away by a smile. “Of course you can sir. Would that be full loaves, or only half?” Distaste filled the griffon’s voice at the last few words, as if only eating half a loaf was akin to murder. Shining’s response only fed the server’s smile.

“A full loaf of each please, and do you have anything we can put on the bread?”

“Of course, of course. You must taste my newest creation borrowed some of Ilcit’s peanut stores and crushed them, it makes a fantastic spread.” He handed over a small bowl of light brown paste alongside the loaves. “Enjoy.”

As they moved away from the counter to find somewhere to sit, Cadence couldn’t help but smile at the server’s enthusiasm. “He seems like he really enjoys cooking.”

Red smiled as well, leading the other three to a cramped table to the side of all the storehouses. “It is good to see someone so entertained in the simplicities of their life, I used to be. I don’t know where all the fun went.”

“You’re the one who got rid of it you old bird,” Jern said as they squeezed into the chairs, the ponies on one side and griffons the other. “If you stopped holding yourself back you’d see there’s still a lot of fun waiting to happen, you just have to play along.”

“And follow along with one of your crazy plans?” Red shook his head. “Once you get to a certain age you realise how silly those things are.”

Squeezed tightly in the seat beside Shining, sitting across from two others, the moment brought memories bubbling to the surface of Cadence’s mind. It’s almost like we’re back on top of that mountain, almost like Cloud and Skylight are here. Yet when she looked at the two opposite her, her joy faded a little. That time is long gone, you need to think about now.

Red and Jern were still arguing, their words blurring to noise in Cadence’s ears. Is Jern enjoying this? Despite the annoyance in Jern’s voice, there was a smile in his eyes and on his beak. Red too. The ginger feathered griffon did not seem the least bit irritated, instead he chuckled after each insult Jern threw his way.

Glancing to her side, Cadence could see Shining was oblivious to everything, completely focused on the seasoned bread in his mouth. “Well, how does it taste?” She had to repeat herself and tap his shoulder before he responded.

“Amazing.” Shining’s eyes were lit up with glee, his crumb coated lips spread in a grin. “The peanut spread is like those peanuts we had earlier, but better.”

Cadence giggled at his foalish description, but took the slice he was offering. One bite and her mouth was watering, wanting more. She gobbled down half a loaf before she could feel it stretching her stomach.

“We should be going now.”

Red’s voice lifted Cadence’s eyes towards him and Jern. The two griffons were squished into their seat even more tightly than she and Shining were. Unable to help herself, Cadence replied with a smirk. “Don’t you two want to stay a little longer?”

Confusion twisted Red’s features. “What do you mean? We’re taking you two to-”

“The night meeting,” Cadence finished, sliding out of the seat. “Don’t mind what I said, let’s go.”

The sun was sinking below the horizon by the time they were outside the ship once again, heading for the meeting point at the top. Jern was carrying Shining this time, insisting he take some of the burden since he had been slacking.

When they landed Cadence noticed there were far less griffons than there had been the previous night. Ilcit was still there however, standing in the same spot she always did. A griffon of white and black feathers had her attention.

Shining at her side, Cadence moved towards the two griffons, her ears picking up the conversation as she closed the gap.

“-too dangerous,” Ilcit finished, shaking her head. “You’ll end up like all the others, there’s a reason Rorack is too scared to go.”

The griffon of black and white huffed. “That’s because they’ve turned him into a big chick!” She winced at the volume of her voice, glancing backward to see if anyone had heard. Eyes finding Cadence, the griffon turned and walked away from Ilcit, muttering.

Stopping a few steps from Ilcit, Cadence gaze still followed the retreating griffon.

“It is rude to stare, I assumed a princess would know that.

Ilcit’s voice broke Cadence from her stare. “Yes, I know, but when I see someone like that I want to comfort them.” Resisting the urge to look back at the griffon, Cadence met Ilcit’s eyes. “What were you two talking about?”

“Foolish things,” Ilcit replied, as if that was enough of an explaination. “It is good to see you here early tonight princess. I hope you have made some progress with you power.”

The reminder tainted Cadence’s stomach with guilt, a sheepish smile coming to her lips. “Well-”

“She’s been working on it all afternoon,” Shining answered for her, allowing Cadence to breathe relief. “Don’t expect results instantly though, a power that great will take time to master, it could be months, years.”

A hint of frustration narrowed Ilcit’s eyes, only for a moment, but long enough for Cadence to notice. “I know you have only arrived here recently, but everyone has been waiting for an answer for longer than they can bear. If there is any way-”

“She is trying as hard as she can,” Shining cut in again. “Isn’t that enough?”

Ilcit’s beak parted before closing, her mind holding back what her tongue longed to say. After a moment of silence, she answered. “That is enough to help me sleep easier at night, but not soundly.” She lifted her eye to the sky. “The meeting is about to start, we can talk more another time.”

Taking Ilcit’s dismissing claw as a sign, Cadence and Shining moved towards the outside of the circle, taking a free space next to Red and Jern.

“The old crow is never in a good mood,” Jern whispered to the ponies as they took their place. “Don’t take it too hard.”

Looking past Jern, Cadence could see Red smiling at them as well. Why do I feel they’re planning something? They seem too happy, were they like this yesterday? Before Cadence could think any more Ilcit’s voice filled the air.

“It is about time we start this meeting, I will not have it delayed further by anyone who is absent, they will simply miss out.” Ilcit’s eyes rested on an empty spot in the circle as she spoke, drawing Cadence’s attention towards it.

That’s where Rorack was standing yesterday, is he here? A glance around confirmed her suspicions, the towering griffon was absent from the meeting. I thought he was one of the griffons leading this? Why would he miss a meeting?

“Tash and Veil, do you have any sightings to report from your week’s scouting?” Ilcit directed her words at the pair of griffons who were almost identical, down to creamy feathers that coated their entire bodies but the head, the same blue eyes, even their beaks were the same size. Only one thing differentiated them from one another, the head of one was covered in tiny black spots.

“Um, shouldn’t we wait till Rorack gets here?” The one without spots replied, his eyes searching the sky for any latecomers. “He won’t want to miss out on what we have to say.”

“Tash, I don’t care if you have Abigail hiding under your wing, we will not be waiting any longer. No matter who it is.” Despite her outburst, there was a smile on Ilcit’s beak. “Now, please share with us this news Rorack won’t want to miss.”

Tearing his eyes away from the sky, Tash met his partner’s eyes before sighing. A nudge from Tash’s wing and Veil opened his, revealing a sack that had been hidden underneath.

“Don’t just hold it up.” Ilcit shook her head, snorting out her breaths from frustration. “Tell us what’s inside.”

“Um, it’s, uh,” Tash began, before looking back to Veil for support. After a nudge or two from Tash’s wing, Veil finally spoke.

“They’re chillies, from The Leaf. Rorack asked us to fetch them, they're his favourite.”

Ilcit drew in an irritated breath, clenching one of her claws tightly. Fire filled her eyes, the anger drawn across her features wanting to explode. Yet after a few deep breaths the moment of frustration faded. “Do you have any new useful to our search?”

“No.” Tash’s eyes were on the floor as he replied, his wings shifting at his sides.

“Then why are you wasting our time?” Before Tash could slip in another word, Ilcit turned to another griffon. “Nius, have our daily scouts reported anything of use?”

Nius’s green eyes were flicking back and forth, checking every griffon in the circle, making sure there was no one unwanted present. “No, but-”

“Moving on then.” Ilcit waved her claw at Nius, dismissing whatever else he had to say.

“Ilcit,” A griffon standing beside Nius said, shoving him forward. “You should listen.”

Turning back to the hazelnut and white feathered griffon, Ilcit sighed. “Fine then, what is it you have to say? And this better not be about chillies.”

Out of the corner of her eye, Cadence saw Tash and Veil creep back further from the circle, until their tails were hard up against the feathered walls.

“No, it’s about Rorack.” Unable to meet Ilcit’s eyes, Nius chose to stare at the sky. “He didn’t want you to know, but he and his two friends left this morning. No one knows why, but-”

“They know where she is don’t they?” Ilcit finished, stating what everyone was thinking. Clenching her beak tightly, she muttered to herself, but in her anger, all ears could hear over the roar of the wind above. “Doesn’t he know I want to find her as much as he does?”

Lifting her head, Ilcit met Nius’s eyes with her hard pair. “You did sent someone after them, didn’t you?”

“Of course, of course.” Nius nodded rapidly, as if it would ease Ilcit’s boiling anger. “It’s ship protocol to track anyone who leaves without a reason. I sent Lucy after him.”

“Good.” Turning away from Nius, Ilcit allowed her eyes to roam the whole circle before her. They rested on Cadence for a few moments, her beak moving silently, planning to say something, before her eyes kept moving. “I think that will be all for this meeting.”

“But Ilcit,” A griffon of grey and white stepped forward, protesting. “There are still many other things we nee-”

“There is nothing else that needs to be discussed.” Stepping from her place in the circle, Ilcit moved across it. “We are following Rorack.”

The same grey and white griffon took another step forward, looking as if he was going to block her path. “But our priority should be finding Abigail, not chasing her misbehaved brother.”

Stopping her her tracks, Ilcit turned towards the griffon, making him quiver with her heavy stare. “Rorack only came to this ship for one reason.” She spoke slowly, the volume of her voice clear for everyone to hear. “We are the lead ship in tracking Abigail, at least we were. If he’s left then there must be someone out there who knows more than we do. I want to find them.”

With that said, Ilcit continued across the circle.

Following Ilcit’s steps, Cadence could see she was heading for a griffon she recognised. Mila? Why would she want to speak with her? Yet when Ilcit stopped, is was not Mila she spoke to, but the griffon beside her.

The griffon was cloaked in the same silver and white feathers Mila was, yet they were a touch duller, showing his age. He was only a little taller than Mila, his golden eyes level with Ilcit’s.

She said her father was the captain. That must be him. Cadence couldn’t help but stare at him, catching Mila’s eyes in the process.

Moving from her father’s side, Mila made her way across the circle to Cadence. “Princess, I knew you’d be looking for me. Are you going to keep helping me become a princess like you?”

“Well, I-” Don’t really have time to, Cadence almost said, but held herself back. I shouldn’t push myself too hard with this spell. Spending time with such a sweet griffon will help me relax. “I’d love to, where do you want to go?”

“To the candy store of course.”

More Than the Ear Can Hear

“So was that griffon standing beside you the captain?” Shining asked once they were settled in Mila’s room, he and their host snacking on colored pebbles of sugar. “He doesn’t look like I expected.”

A frown crossed Mila’s face. “I know he doesn’t look like a captain, but in here.” She pointed a claw at her head, before shifting it to her heart. “And here, he’s a captain. That makes him more of a captain than any other griffon.”

“You’re right.” Shining smiled to himself, dropping another piece of candy into his mouth. “I just always thought of a captain as someone tall, and strong. That was what I always wanted to be, but I don’t think my body made it that far.”

Cadence opened her lips to reassure Shining, but Mila spoke first. “Didn’t you hear what I said?” A frown still on her face, she wiggled towards Shining, so their eyes were only a breath apart. “It’s not what you look like, it’s who you are inside.” Still studying his eyes, she shook her head. “You’re not a captain though.”

Shifting back from Mila a little, Shining felt question creasing his brow. “What do you mean, I thought you just said it’s not the outside, but that inside that matters?”

“I did.” Mila inched closer, until she was uncomfortably close to Shining once more. “But I can see it in your eyes, they’re not the eyes of a captain. You’re planning, always, your eyes are a general’s.”

Red blossomed in the white of Shining’s cheeks as he moved back from Mila once more, looking to Cadence for help.

Seeing the uneasiness of Shining’s look, Cadence reached out the tip of her wing and brought Mila’s head to face her. “Why don’t we talk about something else for now?”

Mila hesitated for a moment, her cheek pushing against Cadence’s feathers, wanting to turn back to Shining. Yet a moments thought had her eyes lit up with excitement. “That’s right, you said you were going to teach me how to be a princess!” She stood and moved to Cadence’s side before sitting.

“Well, there’s no harm in trying.” Looking back to Shining, Cadence saw his eyes were lost in thought once more, oblivious to his surroundings. He has been thinking a lot recently. “What do you want to know about?”

“What type of candy to princesses eat?” Lifting a wing, Mila pulled a cane from one of the strings above. “Do you like sour or sweet, and what do you think about fizzy things?”

Cadence rolled her eyes, trying her best to suppress the giggle that wanted to escape. What makes her think candy is such an important part to being a princess? An images of Celestia’s icing rimming muzzle burst into her mind. Well, Celestia was always eating sweet things. “Let me think.”

Time flew by with strange question after strange question, Cadence answering each one with mixed degrees of confusion. Mila chewed through what seemed like an unending supply of candy during the interrogation, her eyes lit up with foalish excitement.

“-that’s why I prefer sleeping on my belly.” Cadence finished, shaking her head as she thought back to the question. What position do I sleep in? Why does she want to know these things?

Mila drew in a breath of awe, seemingly encapsulated by what Cadence thought was a mundane story. “I’m going to try that tonight, it does sound like how a princess would sleep. Now,” Mila puffed out her cheeks and rolled her eyes upward, thinking.

Watching the griffon, Cadence felt the smile on her lips spreading. She really is the cutest griffon I’ve seen. She raised a hoof, pressing it against one of Mila’s inflated cheeks. “A princess doesn’t puff out her cheeks like that.”

“What?” Lifting a claw to her other cheek, Mila poked at the feathers there. “I thought I stopped doing that a long time ago. Everyone says it makes me look like a chick, not a princess.”

“Well, it makes you look very cute.” Tilting her head upwards, Cadence roamed the candy filled room with her eyes. And I’m sure that’s not the only reason they think you’re a chick.

“I don’t want to be cute.” Mila pouted, causing Cadence to giggle.

Then doing that doesn’t help.

“I want to be a princess.” Drawing in a deep breath, Mila met Cadence’s eyes with a wide grin. “Do you think if I do everything the same as you my horn will start growing soon?”

Cadence’s lips opened to joke back. Of course, She wanted to say. You can be anything you want. Yet she took a little longer to study Mila’s eyes. She’s serious, isn’t she? “Mila, you do know a griffon can never grow a horn, there are some things you can’t change. What we are born as-”

“You’re wrong.” Despite how soft Mila’s words were, they silenced Cadence. “The world isn’t that mean. If I can’t be a princess on the outside, why am I one in here?” She lifted her claw to her chest, right above her heart.

Breath left Cadence’s lungs in a soft, slow stream, her head turning to the side, wanting to find Shining’s eyes, but he was still lost in thought. It’s always easier to talk with him at my side. “Shining?”

His eyes responded in an instant, lighting up and looking to Mila. “You are a princess Mila, outside and in.”

Turning to face Shining as well, the fear on Mila’s face was replaced by question. “What do you mean? I don’t look anything like her. I can’t save the world.”

Shining responded with a chuckle. “Pony princesses aren’t the only kind. You might be a griffon, but you’re still a princess.”

Forming her lips into a pout once more, Mila huffed. “But the princesses in stories always used some amazing power to save everyone. I can’t do that, all I can do is sit around and eat candy.”

The smile on Shining’s lips grew. “Don’t be so sure, there’s something you might be able to help me with. Do you know all the griffons on this ship?”

Mila’s face scrunched up. “Of course I do, it’s my father’s ship, but what does that have to do with saving anyone?”

“More than you know, but I don’t want to explain anything until I’ve figured it all out.” Shining shot a glance back over his shoulder, eyeing the door for a moment. Turning back to Mila, he continued speaking. “Can you just tell me if there are any griffons who are new to the ship, or anyone who’s acting strangely?”

“Hmmm.” Mila stared back at Shining, irritation obvious in her eyes. “You’re acting strangely, asking me all these questions. It’s not fun.”

Sighing, Shining met Cadence’s eyes and silently pleaded for help.

Taking notice of Shining’s need, Cadence reached out and placed a hoof on Mila’s shoulder. “Can you please answer the question properly Mila, that’s what a princess would do.”

“A princess?” The word jolted Mila to attention, her frown replaced with a smile. “What was the question again?”

“Is there anyone on this ship who seems strange?” Shining repeated.

Mila blew out a slow breath as the smile faded from her beak, eyes full of thought. After a moment she spoke. “There was Rorack and his two meanies, but everyone says they’re gone now. Then there’s that old griffon, Ilcit. I don’t like her, but my father says she’s close with the chief and that means I have to be nice.” Her features twisted in a grimace.

“Mmm.” Cadence nodded in agreement. “Ilcit’s absolutely crazy, even if she is in charge of so much.”

Ignoring their complaints, Shining continued to verbally prod Mila. “Is there anyone else you can think of?”

“Hmmm, there was this one other griffon. He came the day after Rorack arrived. Father said he was a new recruit who was interested in helping the search. I think his name was Ceer.”

Shining opened his lips to probe further, but a faint gasp made him pause. “Where did that come from?” Climbing to his hooves, he turned and moved towards the door, the fading clicks of fleeing claws in his ears. When he opened the door he found no one.

“Well, was there someone there?” Cadence was at Shining’s side, staring out into the dim hallway as well.

“There was. Ceer, it must have been him.” Closing the door, Shining turned back to Mila, who was still sitting, and returned to his previous position. “What makes you think Ceer is suspicious? Is it just because he’s new?”

“No, there have been a lot of new recruits with Abigail missing. Most of the griffons on this ship are new. Ceer’s weird because he never talks with anyone, the only times I see him he’s sitting by himself, watching a group of others.”

“Well maybe he’s just shy?” Cadence offered, not wanting to condemn the griffon so easily. “Maybe he wants to talk to the other griffons but doesn’t have the courage to?”

“Maybe, but even so.” Shining shook his head. “That doesn’t explain why he was outside Mila’s door, listening to us.” Lifting his eyes, he met Mila’s pair. “Do you know where his room is? I want to have a talk with him.”

“No.” Mila’s head fell, before rising a moment later, excitement in her eyes. “In my father’s room there’s a map of the whole ship. It has where everyone sleeps.”

“Could we look at it?”

Flicking her eyes between Cadence and Shining, Mila shook her head. “The princess might be look good enough to make it into his room, but you’re too shabby.”

Shining’s jaw dropped, protest on his lips, before he saw the teasing in Mila’s eyes. “A princess doesn’t joke around like that.”

Looking to Cadence, Mila found the pink pony giggling. “Are you sure Shining? I love playing jokes on you.”

Groaning, Shining stood, eyeing the door. “Fine, you’ve had your fun. Now can we take a look at this map?”

“Of course.” Mila rose as well, but instead of moving towards the door as Shining had expected, she headed deeper into her room.

“Where are you going?” Shining asked, following without waiting for an answer, Cadence at his side.

Glancing back at Shining, Mila’s beak held a smile. “You didn’t think I’d have to take the soldier’s way to get to my father’s room? He made this ship especially for this.” Standing before a wall now, she lifted a claw and tugged on a metal ring embedded there, revealing a door.

Behind the door was a room covered in pillows blankets and shadows. “This is my bedroom,” Mila explained, moving inside. “My father’s bedroom is right above it, so whenever I want to see him, all I have to do is go up.”

At the edge of the room now, Shining and Cadence right behind her, Mila lifted her wing and pressed the tip against part of the roof. With a strained breath she pushed the piece upwards, allowing light to stream in from above.

Shining watched the whole process with awe. I wonder how many secret passages this ship has? He saw Mila glance back at the two of them, a possible smirk on her beak, difficult to tell with the little light.

“You’ll have to stay down here prince, it seems like the shabby one can’t come after all. Your wings should be small enough to fit princess.” With that she leapt towards the hole, using her claws to lift her the rest of the way.

Placing a hoof on Shining’s shoulder, Cadence reassured him. “Don’t worry, I’ll lift you up afterwards.” She took a step forwards while unfolding her wings. A quick beat in the tight space sent her flying upward, wincing as some of her feathers scraped against the edge. Maybe I should have let Shining lift me up.

Pushing aside her pain, she quickly turned to look back down the hole where Shining stood. “Relax,” She called out. “I’ve lifted heavier things than you.” Lighting her horn, she surrounded him in her magic and tugged upward, lifting him easily through the hole.

“I thought he wasn’t coming?”

Shining now standing beside her, Cadence turned to see a hint of sadness in Mila’s eyes. “Well he’s the one who needs to know everything.”

A sigh left Mila’s lungs. “I thought we were going to have some time alone, two princesses.”

“Maybe another time,” Shining answered for Cadence, stepping forward, his eyes taking in the room around him. “Now where’s this map?” The sight that his eyes found had him pause.

Dozens of candles filled the room with light and the faint smell of wax, chasing away any shadow wanting to hide between the bookcases that bordered the room. In the centre lay an expansive bed, easily large enough to fit Shining and Cadence a dozen times.

“Not in this room.” Mila’s voice drew Shining’s eyes away from the bed and towards the door she was pushing open. “It’s in his office.”

Both her and Shining following the griffon closely, Cadence couldn’t help but feel a little nervous. “How do you know we won’t run into your father? He won’t like us intruding on his private quarters would he?”

Glancing back at Cadence, Mila smirked. “It’s a little late to be worrying about that, and I know we won’t. He’s busy making sure his ship is running until late at night.”

The room they moved into was a great deal smaller than the previous one, although the giant desk in the centre didn’t help with the space. It’s surface was sparse, most of the paperwork organised into the shelves behind.

Moving past the desk, Mila tugged open one of the draws underneath it, sifting through the paperwork until she found what she had been searching for. “Here it is.” She lifted a tightly folded piece of brown paper from the draw, opening it as she placed it on the desk.

Shining’s eyes bugged out as they came to rest on the puzzle of floor outlines, each one filled with a scattering of notes. “Do you know how to read it?”

Letting out a breath, Mila looked up at Shining and shook her head. “I thought you were the one with the plan? All I know is where my room is, you’d have to ask my father for anything else.”

“Can you show me?” Shining leant over the table as Mila’s claw pointed out a ballooned up room on one of the levels, far bigger than those around it. “Mila Bourne?” He chuckled at the name, shooting the griffon it belonged to an amused look.

“It’s a very noble name,” Mila countered, screwing her face up at him. “Fitting of a princess. Anyway, do you know how to read the map or not?”

Looking back down at the map, Shining studied the numbering in the corner of each outline. “Give me a moment.”

As Shining’s eyes roamed the map, Mila turned to Cadence, her features filled with awe. “Your name’s Cadence, right princess?” At Cadence’s nod, she continued. “Do you have a second name like me?”

“Well.” Cadence felt a red warmth coming to her cheeks. “Cadence is actually my second name, or Cadenza is. My full name is Mi Amore Cadenza.”

Mila’s jaw dropped at the name, and Shining looked up in question. “What? You’ve never told me that before.”

“I know.” Pink cheeks on fire now, Cadence smiled at Shining. “It’s the name my parents gave me, they took it from some book they were obsessed with. I never liked it too much however, Cadence is so much simpler.”

“Your parents?” The map no longer on his mind, Shining shook his head. “I thoughts you never met them?”

“No, before Celestia found me, I had two pegasus parents, but I don’t remember them.So it’s easier to say I never met them. ”

Jaw hanging loose now, Shining looked from Cadence to the map back up to Cadence again, searching for something to say. Eventually his tongue caught hold of a thought. “Why haven’t you told me about them before?” Excitement was in his eyes now. “I’d love to meet them.”

“Well, that’s because they don’t want to see me anymore” The blush fading from her cheeks, Cadence allowed her head to fall. “They gave me up because they didn’t want a foal like me, Celestia’s been the closest thing to my mother for the longest time.”

“Oh.” His excitement fleeing, Shining looked back down at the map, hoping the foreign language of numbers would suddenly make sense. “I should keep looking for Ceer’s room.”

Listening to every word, Mila’s eyes widened at the one thing she gleaned from the ponies’ exchange. “You weren’t always a princess?”

“That’s right.” Glad for the distraction, Cadence turned towards Mila, forcing a smile to her muzzle . “Without Celestia there to teach me, I would have never have come close to being a princess. Sometimes, I still don’t feel truly like one.”

“That means I can become a princess as well right?” Opening her wings, Mila winced as one struck the table. “I’ve got wings, and you’re teaching me. All I need to do is grow a horn.”

Cadence sighed. If only there was a way Mila, I would be so glad to tell you. “If only it were that easy. I don’t know if it’s possible for a griffon to become a pony princess. There a stories of Celestia before she had wings, but she was a special case. To be a princess you need to have overwhelming amounts of the magic that is within all ponies.”

“You can give me some of that magic, can’t you princess?” Mila looked at Cadence with pleading eyes, each quivering pupil filling Cadence with guilt.

Oh why does this have to be so hard. Why isn’t there a way? “Well, I could try.” Cadence bit her tongue, but the words had already escaped. Did I really say that? I’ll try putting magic inside her? I could hurt her so much if I did anything wrong.

Yet Mila didn’t seem to notice the terror in Cadence’s eyes, instead she stepped forward, wrapping the pony in a hug. “Oh thank you, thank you, thank you. I’ll be the best princess there ever was. I can’t wait.”

Cadence returned the hug warmly, but her mind was a rush of frantic thoughts. You can’t do this, you have to tell her that you won’t. Her lips wouldn’t move however, unable to crush the overflowing joy of the griffon before her.

“What floor do the would Ceer have his room on?” Shining asked, his voice bouncing of the map he was still studying.

Breaking away from the hug with a low growl, Mila turned back to the map, studying the outline of each floor. After a few moments she pointed out one. “That’s where all the new recruits sleep. It’s the smallest floor of the ship.”

“Thank you.” Shifting his eyes towards the set of rooms Mila had directed him to and continued his search for the four ink letters.

“So can you do it now?” Mila asked as she turned away from Shining, excitement springing into her face once again.

“Well…” Say you can’t do it. “I can’t do it.” Seeing Mila’s face fall, Cadence quickly mended her words. “Right now, but if you give me till tomorrow I’m sure I’ll be able to find a way.”

Mila drew in a deep breath and released it. “Okay princess, I can wait one more day. One more day and then my dreams come true.” She let out a squeak of excitement, her grin so wide Cadence thought it would escape her face.

“Okay I’ve found it.”

Glad for the distraction of Shining’s voice, Cadence took a step so she was beside the table, focusing her eyes on the outline Shining’s hoof was pointing to.

Eyes on the same place, Mila nodded. “I know where that is, come, I’ll show you the way.” She bounced from the office back towards the bedroom before Shining’s voice stopped her.

“Shouldn’t we put the map away?” His horn lit, Shining was already folding he expanse of paper into its previous size. “You just need to show me where it goes.”

Moving back to the desk, Mila took the paper in her claw, pulling out a draw with the other. She slotted it inside before rushing back to the doorway. “Now no more of this waiting around, the faster we get this done the faster tomorrow comes.”

Cadence could feel a lump in her throat as she followed behind the two. I have to tell her before the night ends.

The quarters of the new recruits was near the bottom of the ship, only accessible by flying out into the cold night air before looping back inside. Begrudgingly Mila carried Shining, yet nothing seemed to put a dent in her mood.

She was bounding down the hallway by the time Cadence landed, eager to get to their destination.

“You should stay with us,” Cadence said when she met up with Mila at the end of the hallway. “We’re investigating this griffon for a reason, you don’t know what kind of griffon he might be.”

“Don’t worry.” A giggle escaped Mila’s lips. “I can already feel my princess power flowing through me, I could take on anything right now.”

Cadence giggled back, but hers lacked the joy Mila’s held. “Well you’re not a princess yet.” And you never will be. Guilt filled her stomach at the thought. What if there is a way? I shouldn’t be putting aside my hope already. Maybe there was a spell Celestia gave us? Yet in the time she had spent searching Celestia’s writings that day, no such spell had caught her attention.

“Okay.” Mila still leading the trio, she stopped at a door. “This is it.”The tag on the door confirmed her words, ‘Ceer’ carved into a sheet of wood.

Nodding, Shining looked back at Cadence. “Can you keep me safe from out here? I’m going to go inside first.”

It took a moment for Cadence to realise he was speaking to her, guilty thoughts burdening her mind. Pushing them aside, she responded. “Mmhmm, try to be safe though, I can’t bring you back to life.”

“He was just spying, I’m sure he’s not dangerous.” Seeing worry in the lines on Cadence’s brow, Shining quickly followed with a few more words. “I’ll still be careful, and with you behind me I’ll be safe.”

A door behind Cadence swung open with a squeak, a voice coming from inside. “What are you-” The eyes of the tired looking griffon who stood in the doorway bugged out, his jaw dropping. “Ponies? Ponies aren’t allowed on this ship.”

“They’re with me,” Mila said, drawing the griffon’s bright blue eyes towards her. “Now can you be quiet or you’ll let him know we’re coming.”

“Everyone in the hall knows!” Another voice called from a door further down. “If you want to sneak up on someone try whispering and not waking everyone up!”

“Sorry,” Cadence whispered back, before turning to the griffon in the door. “I’ll make sure we’re quiet. Can you tell us if Ceer’s in his room?”

“Uh.” The griffon scratched the white feathers on the side of his head with a claw. “I don’t know, I think I heard his door open and close before, but he might have been going. Just knock.” With that he closed his own door.

Shaking his head at the whole ordeal, Shining lit his horn. “I’ll just open it.” He surrounded the door knob in blue, turning until he felt resistance. Taking a deep breath, he put more force into the motion, the knob soon snapping off under the pressure. Yet the door would still not move.

“You have to push on the door,” Cadence explained. “Like this.” Lighting her own horn, she surrounded the whole door in blue, filling the air with the sound of splintering wood as she pushed forward. “There.”

Muttering under his breath, Shining stepped into the room. “I really need to practice my magic.” The blue of his horn lit up the small space before him. One half of the room had a mattress embedded into the floor, the other half holding an open cupboard and a shivering, walnut-brown and white griffon.

As he heard Mila and Cadence entering the room behind him, Shining saw the Ceer’s eyes go wide, whether it was with surprise or fear he could not tell. “We need to ask you some questions.”

Ceer froze for a moment, only his eyes moving, flitting over the three before him before whispering. “Can you please close the door, I don’t want anyone to disturb this.”

Glancing down at the splintered door she stood upon, Cadence felt a sheepish smile coming to her lips as she looked back up. “Well, sorry about that, but it won’t close anymore.”

“It doesn’t matter who hears,” Shining said while taking a step forward, Ceer moving back to match him. “What I want to know is why you were listening at our door?”

Taking another step backward, Ceer’s tail hit the wall. “I-I, I wasn’t listening at anyone’s room. I’ve been, uh, been here all night.” His eyes roamed around the room, searching for more to add to his excuse. “I’ve been cleaning my cupboard.”

Cadence glanced sideways to the still open cupboard door, taking in what lay inside. Her eyes found several stacks of paper, all neatly ordered. “Well it looks like you did a good job.

Looking towards the paper as well, Shining smiled. “Yes, it is clean in there.” He took a step away from Ceer and towards the cupboard, picking out the topmost piece of paper with his magic. “You won’t mind if I read some of this, will you?”

“No, don’t!” The two words that came from Ceer’s mouth sounded nothing like those he had spoken before. Instead they were guttural, like those of some monster rather than a griffon. “I mean, please don’t, they are very personal.”

Without having read a word on the page before him, Shining lifted his eyes. The smile on his lips had grown. “I won’t read them, if you answer my questions truthfully. Why were you listening at our door?” From behind he could hear Mila whispering to Cadence.

“What was that voice he did? It sounded like the one Ilcit used to put on when she read me stories.” Came Mila’s inquisitive voice.

Cadence’s followed. “I don’t know, but it reminds me of something.”

Ignoring the chatter of the two, Shining pressed Ceer with his eyes, waiting for the answer he knew was true.

“I wasn’t listening, I was-” Seeing Shining’s eyes lower towards the suspended page once more, Ceer quickly held up a claw. “Okay, I was listening at Mila’s door, but it wasn’t because you two were there, it because I love Mila.”

Only half-listening to the conversation, both Cadence and Mila looked towards Ceer, Mila speaking. “I didn’t hear what I think, did I?”

Ceer’s eyes picked out the disgust in Mila’s screwed up face. “No, it wasn’t that.” His eyes moved away from Mila, searching the room for another excuse. All he found were Shining’s heavy eyes. “I mean, that’s right. I do love you.”

Confusion softened the horror on Mila’s face, but only for a moment. Her features were hard, hiding all emotion as she spoke. “You know what the rules are on this ship?”

“Yes.” Looking from Mila to Shining, Ceer tried to take another step backward, but only felt the wall pressing harder against his rump. “What do the ship’s rules have to do with this?”

“One of the rules is no one tries anything with the captain’s daughter, me, unless she had shown interest first. That includes confessing your love.”

Ceer’s beak opened and shut a few times, waiting for something to come from his mind. Eventually his tongue produced an excuse. “Forget I said that, I wasn't spying on you three, I was cleaning my cupboard.”

Allowing a sigh to escape his lips, Shining brought lowered his eyes to the page still suspended beneath his muzzle. “If you won’t tell the truth I’ll have to search for it myself.”

“No!” Ceer barked in the guttural tone that had leaked into his voice before. Taking a step forward, he forced Shining’s chin upward with a claw, causing their eyes to meet. “You didn’t hear me listening. You don’t even know I’m on this ship.”

Gazing over Shining’s shoulder, Cadence saw Ceer’s eyes glowing in a green that brought memories to the forefront of her mind. Another one? Here? Pushing her questioning thoughts aside, she lit her horn meaning to force Ceer back from Shining.

Yet before she could Shining’s foreleg lifted and kicked at Ceer’s chest, albeit weakly. It was enough to disrupt Ceer’s charm however, pushing him back a step. Not wanting to take any chances, Cadence surrounded the off balance Ceer in her magic, lifting him into the air.

“Ahh!” A pained growl rang through the room as Ceer’s head struck the low roof.

“Oh, sorry, I didn’t realise the room was so…” Cadence’s voice trailed off and her jaw dropped at the sight before her. Ceer’s feathers were shimmering, slowly fading away until a shiny black shell could be seen underneath.

Seeing the changeling took Shining’s breath away as well, but he recovered first. “I was having some doubts about this, but I think this confirms all of my suspicions.”

“Let me go!” Ceer screeched, struggling in mid air. “You ponies don’t want to be involved in all this, you should let me go and forget it.”

Next to recover, Mila took a step forward, so she was at Shining’s side. “What is that? Some kind of monster?”

Finally finding her voice, Cadence spoke up. “Well, yes you can call him that. He’s a changeling and-”

“Can you be-” Came a voice from behind Cadence, a gasp cutting it off.

Ceer still held in her magic, Cadence turned to find a griffon of blue and white feathers in the doorway, every part of him looking asleep except for his wide brown eyes. “What is that?” He managed to say.

“It’s Ceer,” Shining said, turning away from the changeling as well. “Or what was pretending to be Ceer all this time while spying on the ship.”

Through his sleep slowed mind, the griffon found his training reaching him. “We need to tell the captain about this, bring him with me.” The griffon spun back towards the hall, but Mila’s voice stopped him.

“Go back to sleep Curis, I’ll take him to my father.”

Twisting his head back, Curis’s eyes widened even further. “M-Mila? Sorry, I didn’t see you there. Of course you can escort them yourself.” Thankful to be relieved of his duty, Curis moved back into the hall before disappearing behind his door.

Mila stepped towards the hallway as well, before glancing back at the still unmoving Shining and Cadence. “Let’s go, my father will want to know about this.”

“Sure,” Shining said, gathering the stacks of paper from Ceer’s cupboard in his magic before following Mila and Cadence.

As they moved through the hallway to escape into the night air Ceer remained silent, his struggling stopped, as if he had resigned to his fate. At the edge of the ship, Shining mounted Mila while Cadence spread her wings, readying herself for the flight.

I’ve got to concentrate, She told herself, taking in a deep breath. Make sure you hold onto Ceer while you fly. Sensing Mila at her side, Cadence turned her head. “Are you ready to go?”

“Yup.” Mila nodded before spreading her wings and leaping into the sea of wind, Cadence following her.

Focusing on keeping Ceer held in her magic, Cadence was thankful for the lift of the wind beneath her wings. She only had to beat them once or twice as they climbed the side of the ship. Soon she was standing beside Shining and Mila on the captain’s deck.

“He should be back in his room by now,” Mila said as she moved towards the closed door that separated the deck from her father’s rooms. Lifting a claw, she knocked. “Father, are you there?”

“Mila?” Came a voice from within, muffled by the wood its owner was behind. “Why are you out there at this time?”

Moving towards the door as well, Cadence answered for Mila. “There’s something we need to show you captain. We’ve found a spy on your ship.”

“Who’s out there with you Mila?” A hint of panic was in the captain’s voice now, the sound of his steps moving towards the door.

“It’s the princess father.”

“Oh.”

Cadence heard a bolt slide back and the door opened to the smiling face of the griffon she had seen earlier, his lack of size even more obvious now she stood eye to eye with him. “It’s good to finally meet you captain.”

“Please call me Bami, and the pleasure is all mine princess.” Stepping back from the door, Bami motioned for them to move inside with a claw. “Please come in, I want to hear about this spy.”

Taking a step back from the door as well, Cadence moved Ceer into full view, the changeling having changed into a griffon some time while they were flying. Yet in place of the walnut colored feathers that had covered his body before, he was clothed in the same silver as Mila. Ceer’s body even seemed to have shrunk to match Mila’s size.

Seeing an exact replica of Mila held in her magic stole the words from Cadence’s lips, all she could do was stare. She sensed Bami poke his head out the door and heard a gasp leave his lips.

“Please father, help me.” The voice that came from Ceer’s beak sounded every bit like Mila’s, so much so that Cadence glanced at the Mila beside her, making sure the griffon she held wasn’t the only one. “These horrible creatures captured me.” Fighting through the magic, Ceer pointed a claw at Mila. “And that one is pretending to be me.”

Bami looked from Mila to Mila and back to Mila. “What is this? Is this some kind of cruel trick?”

Still standing at the edge of the deck, Shining took a step forward and reared up on his legs, kicking the suspended Mila in the side. She let out a pained gasp before her feathers shimmered, fading away to reveal the shiny black underneath. “It is.”

Watching his second daughter morph into a monster, Bami’s eyes widened. “How long has this thing been on my ship?”

“This is Ceer,” Shining answered, moving to take his place beside Cadence. “One of the new recruits on the ship.”

“He’s been here that long.” Bami’s eyes dropped, his head shaking. “Can he change into anyone?”

Shining glanced back at the suspended Ceer before blowing out his breath slowly. “As far as I can tell it seems like it, but we’ve only seen him change into two different griffons.”

Still shaking his head, Bami looked back inside. “Ilcit will want to know about this right away. Give me a moment.” His body turning to match the direction of his eyes, Bami disappeared back into his room.

As she heard Bami’s steps fading away, Cadence looked back at the suspended and fearful Ceer. “I wonder what they’re going to do with him. Mila, what does your father usually do with spies?”

“He’s not as bad as some captains, I’ve heard they drop them off their ships with their wings tied.” Mila grimaced, her eyes alight with imagined griffons plummeting to their doom. “He locks spies up until anything they heard doesn’t matter any more.”

“He isn’t just a spy though,” Shining added. “A changeling with like this one will be a constant annoyance to griffons everywhere, but at least he wasn’t as bad as the last one. We’d have a ship of dead or possessed griffons.”

“The last one?” Question filled Mila’s eyes as she looked at Shining. “Is there more than one of them?”

Shining nodded. “We met, or rather fought, another one a few days ago. She looked very different to this one however.”

“So there could be other ones on this ship, and they can copy anyone like he did to me?” Seeing Shining’s nod, Mila continued to speak. “Does that mean Rorack and those other two mean griffons with him could be fake? Everyone says Rorack’s changed so much since he came to the ship, and those two with him seem to weird, like they’re not griffons at all.”

Hearing a gasp come from behind him filled Shining’s lips with a grin. “If you want to be a spy,” He said as he looked to Ceer. “You really need to work on controlling your mouth.” Turning back to Mila, he nodded. “It seems like someone else figured it out.”

“Well how long have you known this?” Cadence asked. “Is this what you’ve been keeping from me the whole time?”

“This is part of it.” Eyes unfocusing, Shining gazed off into his distant dream land. “But a few more things need to fall into place before I know for sure it will all work.”

“I figured it out?” Mila whispered to herself before looking to Cadence. “Is that something a princess does?”

Cadence couldn’t help but giggle as she nodded. “Of course it is, princesses are very smart, at least the only other one I know is.” Her words brought a smile to Mila’s lips and lifted a claw towards her head.

“I think I can feel a horn growing already.”

The joy on Mila’s face reminded Cadence of the duty she had to perform, tearing the smile from her lips. “Mila, you need to know one thing.”

Hearing the sorrow in Cadence’s voice shrunk the smile on Mila’s lips. “What is it?”

Bami’s steps filled the air before Cadence could speak, his voice soon following. “I spoke with Ilcit, she said we should lock him away until tomorrow, and she’s right. It’s getting late, decisions like this are best made with a clear mind.” Stepping out onto the balcony, Bami spread his wings. “Follow me.” He leapt into the air, Mila following him before Shining could mount her.

“Take Ceer and follow them,” Shining said after a moment’s thought. “I’ll wait for you here.”

Leaning towards him, Cadence laid her lips on his before spreading her wings. “I’ll seen you soon.” She took off after the two griffons, soon finding them waiting in the sky above.

The three sailed down the side of the ship, heading for a deck underneath the one recruits slept upon. On landing they were greeted by a massive door of steel, the most Cadence had seen on the ship so far.

Posted to one side of the door, a griffon guard opened his beak to call out, but paused when his mind registered who stood before him. “Captain? What are you doing down here at this time?”

Bami lifted his claw to the griffon held in Cadence’s magic, who now resembled himself. “We’re locking this spy away until morning.”

“Please, stop them,” Ceer called out from his cocoon of blue. “He’s impersonating me, they’re trying to take over the ship.”

With two Bami’s in his sight, both possessing identical voices, the guard lowered his spear. “Which one is real?”

Imitating what Shining had done earlier, Mila leapt into the air and swiped at him with a wing, drawing a grunt of pain from his lips. “This one’s fake.”

Seeing the silver feathers around Ceer shimmer to reveal his true nature, the guard lifted his spear once more. “I’m sorry captain, I should have known you were the true one.”

“It’s alright.” Taking a step forward, Bami placed a claw on the guard’s shoulder. “He fooled me before as well, I couldn’t tell him apart from my own daughter. Now please open the door.”

The guard nodded while lifting his wing, revealing a key concealed within it. Setting aside his spear, he placed it in the centre of the door and turned before tugging on one of the handles embedded there.

Grasping the same handle, Bami leaned into it with the guard, both of them moving the door bit by bit, grunting with each step. After a moment’s watching them, Cadence lifted her voice.

“Do you need some help?” Her words caught her a questioning glance from Bami.

“Are you sure? You don’t look like you are built for work like this.”

Looking down at her slender legs, lacking the muscle that rippled through the bodies of both griffons before her, Cadence smiled. “Well, I’m not, but I have something that might help.” Pushing more magic into her horn, she surrounded the door both griffons had managed to open a crack.

A deep breath and she forced the door back, the sound of steel grinding against steel filling the air. “There,” Cadence gasped as she allowed her horn to settle, only having the strain of holding Ceer upon it once more.

Both of the griffons that had the handle ripped from their claws stood still, beaks wide open. “Princess,” Bami managed to say after a pause. “I’ve heard Ilcit proclaim your great power before, but I didn’t think it was anything like this.”

Still panting, Cadence waved a hoof before her, dismissing the praise. “Well there isn’t much else I can do. Now can be put this changeling away? I need to rest.”

Noticing the sudden exhaustion in Cadence, Bami nodded, stepped into the dim room beyond the steel door. “Of course, doing something like that must surely take a toll on your body.”

As Cadence stepped slowly into the prison, Ceer suspended behind her, Mila bounced along at her side. “See father, that’s what I want to be when I’m older, a princess just like her.”

Cadence held her breath and stopped walking, her eyes focused completely on Bami, who had stopped before on the the half-dozen barred cells. Is he going to tell her? Tell her it’s not possible? Part of her hoped he would. Then I won’t have to break her heart.

“That’s nice Mila, I’m sure all the ponies back where she lives want the same thing as well.” Bami allowed the guard space to unlock the cell as he spoke.

Hearing his words, Cadence released the breath she held and continued forward, placing Ceer inside the now open cell. Well it makes sense, what father breaks his daughter’s heart? I’ll be the one to do it.

With Ceer was inside the guard stepped forward and locked the cell, all four of them moving towards the door. Once outside Bami looked towards Cadence. “Do you have enough strength to shift the door again?”

Nodding, Cadence lit her horn, surrounding the door in blue once more. The sound of screaming steel filled the air as she shifted it, but beneath it all she was sure she heard sobbing. It pulled at her heart. He has feelings too, even if he was spying on the ship. I wonder why he was doing it? I’ll have to ask Shining.

When the door finally rested in the place it had started, Cadence felt her legs shaking underneath her weight.

Noticing this, Mila was soon leaning against her. “Are you alright princess?”

Thankful for the support, Cadence nodded. “Well, mostly. I get a little tired when I use my magic like this.”

A smile on her beak, Mila spread her wing that wasn’t pinned between her and Cadence. “Do you need me to fly you back?”

Cadence’s lips parted to refuse, but the ache in her head and sleepiness running through her veins stopped her. “That would be great if you could.”

Her smile widening. Mila left Cadence’s side to crouch before her, waiting for the princess she adored so much to climb onto her. Once Cadence was securely mounted, Mila leapt from the deck, her father a wingbeat behind.

The ship seemed to pass by in a blink for Cadence as the griffon she rode rocketed up the side of it. Well, I still have a lot of practice to go before I can reach speeds like this. A breath left her lips and another entered, she could see Bami’s deck below, Shining standing upon it.

After Mila had landed and Cadence dismounted, Shining moved across the deck to join them. “How do I know one of you isn’t Ceer in disguise?” He asked, features filled with mock concern, as Bami landed to on side.

Cadence shook her head before leaning in and placing her lips on his. “Don’t joke like that, I thought you were serious for a moment.” As she broke away from the kiss Cadence stumbled forward, Shining there to catch her.

“Is something wrong Cadence?” Lifting her foreleg over his shoulder, Shining allowed her to lean against him.

“Well, not really. I used a little bit much magic, so we should get to sleep soon.” Turning her head, Cadence looked towards Bami. “Do you know where our rooms are? We still don’t know our way around the ship.”

After a moment’s thought, Bami nodded. “You’re in one of the smaller rooms aren’t you? I’m so sorry about that princess, but our ship is almost full. It was the best….” A smile spread across his beak. “Actually, with Rorack gone that frees up a few rooms. You can take his if you wish.”

Cadence and Shining shared a look for a moment, deciding with their eyes, before they both nodded. “We’ll take it,” Cadence said. “But right now I don’t have the energy to shift our things. Can you show us where our old room is?”

“Do you want to show them Mila? I still have a few things to finish before the night is over.” Seeing his daughter’s nod, Bami continued. “Good, they’re on the north west corner of the guest deck.” Moving past them, he stepped inside. “I’ll see you three tomorrow.”

A skip in her step, Mila moved after her father, stopping at the door and glancing back to make sure the ponies were following. Seeing they were, she continued through her father’s room and into the hallway beyond.

For Cadence’s tired body the journey back to their room seemed like the passing of a year, the want to collapse into sleep growing with each step. She could hear Mila speaking, but couldn’t discern her words, only the excitement in her voice.

After the eternity of slow steps, Cadence felt Shining’s lips in her ear, the soft breath of his whisper. “We’re here.” She heard him say goodbye to Mila and the door before her open. They moved forward together and the door closed, her body floating towards the floor as Shining let her down.

Eyelids falling under the spell of sleep, Cadence saw their darkness dropping over her vision as Shining’s horn rung through the air. She wanted desperately for the warm haze of sleep to take her away, but something kept her from accepting its embrace.

There’s something I’m forgetting, something I needed to do before I went to sleep. Forcing her sleepy mind to work, Cadence searched through the day’s events, looking for what was troubling her.

“Mila!” The word left her lips as her eyes opened, startling Shining.

Having finished setting up their tent for protection, he crouched down beside Cadence. “She already left Cadence. Was there something you needed to tell her?”

“She can’t be a pony princess.” Saying the words aloud filled Cadence’s stomach with a sickly guilt. “Can she?” Eyes blurred by the need to sleep, she looked to the muddled white form of Shining.

“So you’re worried about the promise you made her?” Lying beside Cadence now, Shining ran his hoof down her mane and along her back, knowing the motion would help to comfort. “I wouldn’t think that a griffon could become a pony, but who knows, Ceer seemed to be able to change into anyone.”

The idea broke Cadence from her fall into sleep, eyelids snapping open and eyes alight once more. “Do you think that would work? If we could figure out how the changelings change forms, we could do that for Mila?”

“Maybe.” Seeing the new found excitement in Cadence’s eyes, Shining didn’t want to disappoint. “But you saw how weak the illusion was, it broke the moment he was put off balance. I doubt it’s more than something you can look at as well.”

Hearing Shining’s argument stilled the burst of excitement running through Cadence’s body, keeping her awake. Sleep soon took over her body again, clouding her mind and weighing on her eyelids. “You’re right,” She mumbled, resting her head on his neck. “But we still have to try.”

Who's Who?

“You can’t catch me princess!”

Cadence was racing through cobbled streets she knew well, chasing after a blue-scaled body she knew even better. She could hear herself giggling along, but the sound seemed distant, as if she wasn’t in her own body. Yet Cadence’s mind didn’t catch this tiny detail, only the merest bump in the road of joy she was upon.

Still chasing Flo, Cadence saw her skid around a corner ahead, and opened a wing, preparing to do the same. Holding her pink wing up on the inside of the turn, she made the sharp angle without a tiny loss in speed.

Somehow Flo had gotten further from her however. Not letting this setback worry her, Cadence continued forward. She knew what they were about to come upon, the giant descending steps in the centre of Rockholm.

Well, I might cheat a little here. Both wings ready at her side, Cadence saw Flo far ahead, already disappearing down the first step. Moments later Cadence was at the edge of the first step as well, but instead of taking the easy slope downward, she opened her wings and leapt into the air.

She couldn’t feel the wind’s breath beneath her wings, but she still rose as if lifted by it. Dropping one wing to the side, Cadence turned to chase after Flo as the blue dragon fled down the steady slope of the step.

On its quietest days, even in the middle of the night, the great steps of Rockholm never had want for company, on this day however, only Cadence and Flo were present.

Taking no notice of this, Cadence grew closer and closer to Flo, her hooves outstretched to tackle her prey. A moment from impact she saw the blue scales of Flo shimmering, revealing hints of the black shell underneath. The sight filled Cadence’s lungs with a gasp.

Yet no matter how she tried to stop her approach, it was too late. Her hooves were on either side of the completely revealed changeling, snout inches away from the shiny black neck.

Cadence closed her eyes and twisted her head away, bracing for impact, however the only impact she felt was her hooves with the cobbles below. Lifting her eyelids, she saw the cobbles below, her hooves, and a pair of white hooves in front of her.

Shining? She thought, lifting her eyes to find the face she expected, smiling at her. No words were spoken, but they still exchanged greetings as she leapt into his waiting hug.

“Seeing all these changelings,” He said silently, as if placing the words right into her mind. “Doesn’t it make you wonder? Anyone could be a changeling, you could be one. I could as well.”

No, Cadence thought, lifting her head and leaning back to look into his eyes. I know you’re- What her eyes met froze her thoughts and everything around her. Shining’s white snout was no longer before her, instead there was a shiny black snout in its place, glowing green eyes resting above it.

With a soundless scream Cadence threw herself back from him, running in the other direction, up the sloping step. At its peak she could see the wall of white feathers, a ring of shadows lurking behind them. Good, they’re having a meeting.

She burst through the feathered wall into a circle of dragons instead of the griffons she had expected, the abundance of friendly faces comforted her however. Ember, Flo, Obsidian, all of the dragons Cadence had met during her stay in Rockholm. As she looked around the circle, she spied a face that had her running instantly.

Shining! With no thought given to the illusion she had seen moments before, Cadence raced towards his waiting embrace, burying her head in his soft white fur. Oh Shining, something horrible happened. As she rubbed her cheek against his chest, she could feel his fur melting away, the embrace she shared with him growing cold.

When Cadence realised the leg that was holding her was icy, she glanced up to find the shiny black face of a changeling once more. No, this can’t happen. She turned away from him, hoping for the others in the circle to come to her rescue.

Yet every colorful scaled face had disappeared, a legion of greedy black grins replacing them, all of them moving forward. No! Cadence could feel the racing of her heart, each beat wanting to leap from her chest. Sweat soaked her coat, the army of black approaching before her muddling into a blob of darkness.

“Haah.” Drawing in a sharp gasp, Cadence lifted her head, eyelids flickering open to reveal the dim room before her. It was a dream, She told herself, lowering her head once more. Only a dream.

Yet when she sensed Shining’s fur brushing against her neck, she jerked up once more, shifting back from him. But what if he is a changeling? The thought lingered in her head for a moment before she shook it away. No, it really was a dream, there’s no way he could be a changeling, I’ve known him for so long.

No matter how hard she tried to push the thoughts from her head, with little else for her mind to do, they crept back in, threatening to turn the pony beside her into a creature of black. It’s no use sitting here until morning.

With a sigh, Cadence rose and instinctively kissed Shining on the cheek, the contact somehow leaving a bad taste in her mouth. I really need to clear these dreams away. An ache still pained her head from the previous night, a lesson to her excessive use of magic.

Despite the warning the pain gave, she lit her horn, using her blue glow to open the door and light the otherwise shadow-filled hallway. Her legs seemed to know the way, and she allowed them to carry her towards the edge of the ship, the air around growing colder with each step.

When she stood outside, face to face with the unending wind of the desert, Cadence swallowed gulp after gulp of air, allowing the chill to clear her mind and dull the pain. Her wings were heavy, but the fading stars above were too tempting to resist.

Forcing open her limbs of pink feathers, she leant forward, allowing the wind to lift her from the deck and into the air. Soon she was high above the ship, the beast of wood and wings seeming tiny compared to the desert it sailed above.

We’re so lucky we found a ship to pick us up, Cadence thought as she stared out into the endless hills of sand. It must be so easy to get lost out here. Out on the horizon, not a hint of the sun’s glow could be seen. I must’ve barely slept at all.

Her head thumped with pain as if to agree, drawing her eyes back down to where her bed lay. Why did I come out here in the first place? The thought brought flashes of her nightmare to her mind.

Wincing, Cadence tilted her head into the wind as she closed her wings, diving back towards the ship. The rush of warmth within her body and cold air outside chased the lingering horrors from her mind, allowing her to focus solely on what was below.

Several pairs of wings were soaring around the ship as well, what she presumed were guards. As Cadence grew closer to the ship its bulk blocked more and more of the patrolling griffons, until all she could see was a single pair of wings leaving one of the lower floors of the ship.

For a moment Cadence thought she saw holes dotting the black wings, allowing her sight of the sand below, but a blink later her eyes corrected her, picking out ginger feathers in the dim light. I must be imagining things again, I need to get back to sleep.

In her confusion Cadence had missed the deck she was supposed to land upon, and instead was still plummeting towards the sand. She pulled up a few floors from the bottom, eyes finding the steel doors of the prison as she steadied herself, wings half-open.

To one side she could see the still form of the guard, head resting against the wall, spear lying to the side. His chest filled with each breath. He must be sleeping, She thought with a smile, opening her wings a little further to allow the wind to lift her. Like I should be.

“Cadence.” The whisper tickled her ear, as did the lips that intruded with it. “You need to wake up, Bami wants to talk.”

“Well, you’re not a changeling are you?” She replied without thinking, lifting an eyelid to check for signs of black shell.

“What? No.” Drawing back from Cadence, Shining chuckled before rolling his eyes into his head, thinking. “Although, I could be, you’d never know.”

Wriggling a hoof out from underneath her, Cadence kicked him in the shoulder.

“Ow.” Rubbing at the point of contact, Shining shook his head. “What was that for?”

Cadence allowed a smile to creep onto her lips. “I was making sure you’re not a changeling. Every time someone knocked Ceer last night he changed back.”

“You’re right.” Looking towards the roof once more, Shining pondered Cadence’s words for a moment before speaking. “But what if I was a more powerful changeling than Ceer, and I’m able to maintain the illusion even while I’m sleeping? I could have been pretending to be a pony this whole time?”

“Well.” Reaching out her hoof, Cadence tilted his head down so his blue eyes met her pink pair. “Then you're the nicest changeling I’ve ever met.” She placed her lips on his, her tongue roaming his mouth as they kissed. “I know we haven’t met the nicest changelings,” Cadence said after she pulled back. “But that doesn’t mean all of them are evil. I’m sure even Ceer has some goodness in him.”

“What about that changeling we met back at the village?” A shudder ran through Shining’s body at the memories that filled his head. “Did she have any good in her?”

“Of-” Cadence stopped herself as pictures of the twisted changeling’s eyes filled her head, the screeching of Pido’s voice when she was possessed. A belief she had held her whole life second guessed. Does everyone really have good in them?

She heard the changeling’s voice echo through her head, followed by that chilling cackle. I find my pleasure in fear. A shudder ran along her spine. Is it possible? Did she only enjoy the suffering of others?

“I don’t know,” Cadence admitted after the thoughtful silence, allowing her eyes to fall. “I haven’t thought about her at all since we left. It’s not something I want to remember.”

Shining took a deep breath, searching the room for something else to talk about. “Why don’t we get going? Bami wants to talk to us about something that happened last night.”

“Well, let’s go then.” Glad for something to change the mood as well, Cadence rose to her hooves, fishing a pastry from Shining’s bags as she did so. “Have you had anything to eat yet?”

“Noooo,” Shining said, the lie obvious in his shaky voice.

Shaking her head, Cadence retrieved a pie for him as well. “I don’t want you getting too fat with all the walking we’re missing out on. So only this once.” With her already lit horn she pushed open the door, gasping when Mila’s smiling face sprung out from behind it. “Have you been listening the whole time?”

Mila looked from side to side, as if searching for an excuse, before nodding. “Yes, but only because I want to know more about being a princess. I didn’t mean to hear all those other things.”

“Well at least you’re honest,” Cadence said with a glance backward, catching the guilty Shining with pastry crumbs around his lips. “Let’s get going.”

“How did he escape?” Shining asked, eyes wide and head shaking. “There were so many things I wanted to ask him.” A sigh left his lips.

Standing across from Shining, his paper stacked desk between them, Bami looked just as confused. “I don’t know either, no matter how many times I ask the guard who was watching him, he insists there was never a prisoner in there last night. Maybe he’s right, were we all dreaming that madness last night?”

At Shining’s side, Cadence had stayed silent for most of the conversation, thought clouding her eyes. She now spoke up. “No, he was definitely there. I saw him escape this morning.”

Question clouded the features of both Shining and Bami, while all Mila’s eyes held was disappointment. “Why didn’t you stop him?” She asked, voice low, eyes wide and pleading.

Shining nodded in agreement. “Yes, why didn’t you?”

“Well, I don’t know if I actually saw him, but if he escaped this morning, it would explain what I saw.” She rubbed at her head with a hoof, trying to bring back the pair of black wings she had seen, already faint then. “I thought I saw a changeling when I was flying early, but it was only for a moment, and I was tired as well.”

“If he really has escaped, then it would make sense that you saw him.” Shining said, mind still working. “Why were you down by the prison that early?”

The nightmare Cadence had fought so hard to push from her mind flashed to the forefront, causing her to wince. “I had to clear my head so I went out in the sky, and may have missed the platform when I was diving back down. I saw Ceer, and the guard.” She looked towards Bami, panic in her eyes.

Knowing her question before it left her lips, Bami nodded. “He’s fine, the only thing he seems to have lost is his memory. Is that Ceer’s doing?”

“Maybe,” Shining said, piecing together the possibilities in his head. “The other changeling we’ve encountered seemed to be able to alter the memories of her victims, but I’m not too sure how it works exactly, I always thought they needed to be looking into your eyes to do anything with your mind.”

Bami drew in a sharp breath, shaking his head. “Some of our guards can’t resist taunting the prisoners, bullying them. It’s something I’ve tried to stop, but every now and then we find a prisoner who’s been pummelled after provoking the guard.”

The room fell silent as all those in it pictured what had happened, first Ceer calling out to the guard, mocking him through the steel door. Then the guard moved from his post, throwing open the steel door. “That doesn’t make any sense,” Cadence said, breaking into the minds of the other three. “There’s no way that guard could have moved the door himself.”

After a moment’s thought, Bami nodded. “You’re right, even with two of us last night we couldn’t move it. He must have had help.”

“Then maybe Ceer didn’t escape alone?” Shining suggested, a smile on his lips. “Maybe there are other changelings on the ship that helped him escape?”

Bami shuddered, shaking his head. “To think that some of my own griffons aren’t who they think they are, it’s terrible.” He lifted his eyes to meet Shining’s. “Do you really think some on this ship have been deceiving us this whole time?”

“Yes.” A heavy sigh left Shining’s lips alongside the word. “I know it’s hard to think about, but we can’t ignore it. Someone else had to be down there last night to help Ceer escape.”

“She just said she was down there.” The words exploded from Bami’s lips like a breath of flame, full of force and heat. “Maybe she was the one who helped him?” Panting from the outburst, he looked around the room, shrinking back when he found shock in every eye he met.

“Father!” Mila spoke first, her injured voice only adding to the guilt weighing on Bami. “The princess would never do something like that, I know it.” She turned to Cadence, resting her head on a pink shoulder.

“I, I.” Allowing his head to fall, Bami let out a slow breath. “I’m sorry for saying that, when someone accuses my griffons it feels like they’re attacking me. It always makes me so defensive.”

“I can understand,” Shining said as he stepped forward, placing a hoof on Bami’s shoulder. “Placing so much faith in someone only for them to have been against you from the start, it must be hard. They won’t get away with it though, we can find them.”

“Right.” With Shining’s encouragement, Bami lifted his head, a weak smile on his beak. “We’re going to find the one who freed Ceer, and we’ll stop these, changelings?” He met Shining’s eyes.

“Yes, they’re changelings.”

“We’ll stop these changelings and get every single one of them off my ship.” Glancing down at his desk, Bami recalled the plans that were written there. “I need to call off the search for Rorack until we’ve cleaned this ship out.”

“No!” As Bami made to move past him, Shining lifted a hoof to stop his progress. “We need to keep following Rorack, finding him will help stop all of this.”

Bami stopped at the command of Shining’s hoof, but still shot him a questioning look. “How? I doubt Rorack knows any more about these strange creatures than we do.”

“He does though,” Shining said, dropping his foreleg.

“Remember how you’re always saying Rorack’s not the same as he used to be?” Mila continued, still at Cadence’s side. “It’s because he’s one of them. No, I mean one of them is pretending to be him.”

Bami drew in a breath, his eyes wide. “It all makes sense, he’s felt different ever since he came aboard my ship.” Another spark went off in his eyes, his head turning back towards Shining. “Does that mean the ponies who took Abigail?”

“You’re right, I think they might be changelings as well.”

“My ship can only sail the winds so quickly however,” Bami said, nodding. “While we’re tracking Rorack we should clean this ship of those monsters as well. Since you seem to have known much so far, what would be the best way to tell them apart?”

Shining opened his lips, but it was Cadence’s voice that filled the air. “Well, Mila could tell who seemed strange. Maybe with your help and a few others we can trust we can make a list of all those we suspect?”

“Yes,” Still nodding, a smile spread across Bami’s beak. “There is another griffon who hasn’t been himself ever since Abigail was taken. Right after he came back from his holiday in the city as well.”

“Who is he?” Shining asked.

Bami took a step around the pony before him. “Follow me.”

The three of them, Cadence, Bami, and Mila, had found the griffon in question soaring high above the ship, Shining electing to stay on the deck below. “I don’t want to slow you down,” He had said.

Even from far off, Cadence could see the wave of panic that ran through his body when he spied all of them heading his way. He quickly shrugged it away and pretended not to have seen them, beating his wings to head in the other direction.

“Tatus!” Bami called when they were within earshot, waving a claw to be sure he caught Tatus’s attention.

Unable to deny his knowledge of them any longer, Tatus turned towards the three, allowing the wind to carry him their way. “What do you want from me sir?” He asked once he was no more than a wingspan away.

“Will you come down to the deck with us? I have a few questions for you.” Bami motioning back towards the ship with his head.

Tatus twisted his head backwards, searching for an excuse. When he had one he turned back. “I can’t leave my post without a replacement sir. We never know when we might be under attack.”

“You’re right.” Nodding, Bami pointed to Cadence with a claw. “She’ll stay here to take your post, even if an army comes I’m sure she can hold them off.”

Cadence hesitated a moment before nodding as well. “Yes, I’ll hold your post for you.” She moved away from the group, hovering above Tatus. “Go on, no need to worry.”

With no more excuses, Tatus sighed. “Okay, I’m always glad to help my captain.”

Keeping her word, Cadence watched as the three headed down towards the deck, her stomach squirming with worry. What if something bad happens without me? I won’t be there to save them. She forced herself to breathe, pushing the worry filled thoughts away. I’m right here, I can see everything.

They shrunk and shrunk until they were the same size as Shining, their wings folding away. She couldn’t hear a word, nor see their beaks moving, but she could tell by how their bodies moved they were speaking.

Hovering on the wind, Cadence kept her eyes pinned to Tatus, waiting for him to make a wrong move, something that would give her an excuse to join them. With her extreme focus on Tatus however, the movement of of the others blurred into an afterthought. She saw Tatus step back, obviously offended by something that had been said.

Any moment now, he’ll show what he really is, what lies beneath those feathers. She saw Tatus move closer to the three, lifting a claw. He’s attacking! Folding her wings away, Cadence dove towards them, only to stop a moment later.

Tatus’s claw didn’t move any further than his head, merely lifting to brush some of his feathers into place.

Closer now, Cadence could see Tatus nodding along as others spoke. His posture no longer showed signs of offense, instead he appeared almost understanding. Maybe he isn’t a changeling after all? There are other reasons for acting strange.

After a few more moments of speaking, Tatus opened his wings and rode the wind back up towards Cadence. Once he was close enough he called out to her. “Thank you for holding my post.”

Surprise having stolen her voice, Cadence simply nodded before diving back towards the ship. It doesn’t make sense, why would he be so against answering some questions if he’s not a changeling? Maybe he does worry about his duty that much?

When her hooves finally sounded against the wooden deck, Cadence could no longer contain her curiosity. “Well, what did he say?”

“He told us he wasn’t a changeling,” Shining replied plainly, as if that was all that needed to be said. “It makes me wonder if I’m wrong about Rorack as well.”

Bami nodded in agreement. “Yes, just because someone is acting strangely, it doesn’t make them a changeling. We may have overreacted to the one we found last night.” Looking around the feathered meeting area, he opened his wings. “I should be preparing for the search meeting. Mila, let’s go.”

Expecting the princess-obsessed griffon to refuse, Cadence was lost for words as she watched Mila follow her father into the air without saying a thing. Jaw hanging loose, she looked back to Shining, examining his eyes. They’ve changed, all of them. “What do you want to do Shining?”

Shining hesitated, eye twitching before a grin spread across his lips. “Let’s go eat.”

Having carried Shining back from the ship’s uppermost deck, and still sore from the previous night, Cadence’s wings were now aching. Yet as the sound of Shining crunching through a pastry filled her ears, she could think of nothing else but the conversation she had missed out on.

What did he really say? What made them change like this? Maybe he took over their minds? The thought came to her with a gasp, alerting Shining.

“Is something wrong?” His voice was muffled by the mixture of apples and blueberries it contained. It also lacked concern, as if he were not worrying about her but merely noting a fact.

“Well….. Yes…..” Cadence admitted, drawing each word out as she thought. If he is under that changeling’s control, how am I supposed to free him? Images of her last changeling encounter came to mind, the embrace of her lips with Shining’s freeing his mind. A kiss, right. Meeting his eyes, she lowered her eyelids and leant forward. “It’s been a while since we’ve had any fun, hasn’t it?”

“You’re right.” Directing his lips away from her approaching pair, Shining laid a kiss on her neck, and another lower down, wetting a trail along her back.

Feeling his lips taste the base of her tail, Cadence shivered, biting her lower lip. He’s not himself though, I need to kiss him. Her deprived body spoke louder than her mind however, shifting her tail to the side and lifting her rump to allow Shining’s muzzle access.

And even if he was himself, we’re in a tiny room surrounded by so many others. Someone will hear us. Yet all of Cadence’s convincing thoughts were nothing against the force of her body’s want. The warmth of pleasure filling her limbs, shifting her body without thought as Shining kissed at her winking lips.

As his tongue slid inside, exploring the slick flesh within, Cadence’s mind was turning. Well, it’s still him isn’t it, even if he’s forgotten about the changelings. We both need this. No longer thinking of who heard, she allowed a moan to leave her mouth while she grinded her rump against Shining’s now soaked snout.

“Do you want me to go further?” Shining asked, lifting his head from beneath her tail. His body was moving before he even waited for a response, lifting his solid, eager member from the mattress.

Lost for words, all Cadence could do was nod and shift her shivering body to where she knew his shaft hung. A gasp escaped her lips when she felt his burning hot flesh kiss her lips, now soaked in saliva and her nectar.

With a groan Shining thrust forward, driving inside Cadence and pushing another gasp from her lungs. “I haven’t done this in so long.”

“Neither,” Cadence managed to breath as he drew back. “We haven’t-” Another gasp cut her off. “In weeks.”

“No, it’s been longer than that,” Shining said as he leant forward, lips brushing against Cadence’s ear. “It’s been years since I’ve been with a pony.” He bit down hard on the flap of flesh and pink fur, forcing a whimper from her.

Deep in Cadence’s mind, a voice called out. This isn’t Shining, it’s that changeling controlling him. This is wrong, wrong. Yet the overwhelming pleasure of each thrust drowned it out, her body only thinking of the release it had been missing.

“And to think I’m with a pony princess,” Shining continued, the power of each drive inside her growing to the point it was almost painful.

The added sensation only drove Cadence further however, her hips wiggling to increase the movement, inner walls clenching tight, wanting to keep Shining’s member inside forever. She could feel the tension in her loins building, the release she wanted so dearly coming.

And despite it was the changeling piloting Shining’s body, it still had the same ticks. Cadence could sense him growing close as well, the base of his shaft tensing, ready to fill her.

Smothered by her pleasure, the sensible part of Cadence’s mind still survived, placing on thought in her lust driven consciousness it knew she would follow. Kiss him. By instinct her body responded, lifting a foreleg up to wrap around his neck and pull Shining’s lips closer, twisting her head so her muzzle pressed into his.

Shivering from the waves of warmth flowing through her body, the kiss was sloppy, but their lips still made contact before the changeling knew what was happening. Cadence felt the start of a screech fill her mouth before Shining’s body still completely, his green tinted eyes lighting bright blue once more.

“Where am I? What’s happening Cadence?”

“Just finish me,” She breathed, her hips moving back and forth to coax him into motion once more. Although his dazed movements were slow, it only took a few thrusts for the already built up Cadence before she was spasming around Shining’s length.

Moments later she heard Shining groan and felt his shaft pulsing inside her, filling her with his seed. Panting from what had only been a few moments of movement for him, Shining pulled himself out of Cadence and lay down beside her. “What happened?”

Calming down from the pleasure induced high, Cadence’s stomach was swimming with guilt. I betrayed him, all to satisfy myself. “The changeling we went to speak with a little while ago, he possessed you, Mila and Bami as well.”

“What changeling?” Question covered Shining’s features until he realised what Cadence’s words meant, then shock dropped his jaw and widened his eyes. “Does that mean you were…” The last of his question faded away, his lips not strong enough to utter it.

Feeling tears sprouting in the corners of her eyes, Cadence nodded as she dove into his chest. “Yes, I’m so sorry, so, so sorry. I couldn’t stop, my body wanted it so badly. I wasn’t thinking.”

“Cadence.” With a hoof, Shining lifted her head so pink eyes met his blue pair. “You don’t need to blame yourself, you didn’t know the whole time, did you?”

Realising what Shining said was true, Cadence felt a smile come to her lips, albeit a weak one. “Well, no. Once I realised we had gone too far, I couldn’t help myself.” Although the truth, the words left a bitter taste on her tongue. It feels like an excuse, I should’ve stopped the moment I knew.

“You said Mila and Bami are under his control as well?”

The mention of the two griffons helped ease Cadence’s guilt, her mind on other things. “Yes, he could be doing anything if he’s got control of Bami. We need to stop them as soon as we can.”

“You’re right, but now you’ve freed me he knows we’ll be coming for him.” Boring a hole in the wall with his eyes, Shining stroked Cadence’s mane as he thought. “We can’t go for Bami and Mila, we need to go after him.”

“Well, you remember how that went last time.” Cadence shivered as the hazy image of the changeling, head torn clean, passed through her mind. “I don’t want to see that again.”

Gritting his teeth at the memory as well, Shining nodded. “You’re right, but we don’t need to kill him, only put him to sleep. Do you know any magic that does that?”

Cadence’s eyes hovered over the pair of yellow saddlebags that rested behind Shining, tempted to search the stacks of paper within for a spell that would fit. “I don’t know any, and we don’t have enough time to look for one.”

“I thought you’d say that.” A smile touched Shining’s lips. “So I have another plan to put him to sleep.”

“What?”

“A good knock to the head.”

Shining clutching awkwardly to Cadence’s back, the pair rode the wind up to where they had seen Tatus last.

On guard duty, the disguised changeling saw the long before they saw him, but being so high in the sky, it was impossible for him to escape without their notice. The moment Tatus tried to flee away from the ship, Shining saw the pair of wings out of place.

“Over there,” He whispered in Cadence’s ear, a foreleg directing her eyes.

Finding the fleeing griffon against the clear blue sky, Cadence beat her wings, which together with the wind’s strength shot her upwards. The other guards on duty watched in shock as the princess they had heard so highly of chased down one of their fellow griffons. One broke away from his post, trying to wave both parties down with his forelegs.

Yet Tatus, assuming Shining and Cadence’s plans, had no intentions of stopping. He dove down towards the ship, hoping to find a place to hide and change shape inside. He hadn’t accounted for the extra weight of Shining however.

Following Tatus into a dive, Cadence found she was catching, the burden of Shining on her back causing her to drop through the wind faster. She was still a long way behind however, Tatus having a head start on her, he was closer to the ship than she was to him, and far out of the range of her magic.

The gap closing rapidly, Cadence’s horn lit, reaching, trying to pluck Tatus out of the air. She could feel a sharp pain at the base of her horn as she pushed her magic beyond where it had gone before. If I can only grab his tail.

Focusing intently on the tuft of fur that rested at the end of Tatus’s tail, Cadence was aware of shrinking distance between them and the ship as well. A maze of thousands of doors for him to disappear within, one that he most certainly knew better than the ponies.

Got him! Cadence felt her magic close around something, the pressure of her focused magic pinching Tatus’s tail so tightly she heard him yelp over the wind. With a breath she drew him back, away from the ship, and over her back. She heard another sound leave Tatus’s lips, a grunt, as Shining put the griffon to sleep the way guard academy had trained him.

Having caught her target, it took Cadence a moment to realise she was still diving toward the ship, her wings snapping out to stop the fall moments before impact. I wouldn’t want to put us all to sleep.

With gentle beats of her wings, Cadence headed for the shelter of the feathered walls. Once landed inside, she crouched to allow Shining to dismount, but her horn stayed lit the whole time. I can’t let him free for even a moment.

“Oh no.” She heard Shining mutter from behind, drawing her eyes to him. Standing a step from her, his snout was lifted towards the sky, following something. Glancing into the sky herself, Cadence saw a griffon descending towards them. Is he another changeling? I we can’t have another fight with them.

The griffon landed on the other side of the meeting area to them, folding his sandy blond wings away before speaking. “I know you’re that pony princess, but you have no right to forcibly remove a griffon from his duty.” Despite his fighting words, he kept his distance, eyeing the blue glow of Cadence’s horn.

“Well, it does seem like that.” Looking away from the griffon and back to Tatus, Cadence was surprised to still see feathers behind her blue glow. Why hasn’t he changed back yet.

“He’s not really a griffon,” Shining continued for her, stepping forward. “He’s only pretending to be one. Those feathers aren’t real, it’s an illusion. He’s really a changeling.”

“Changeling?” The blond and white griffon shook his head, clearly not convinced. “I’ve never heard of anything like that, do they look exactly like griffons?”

Glancing backward, Shining saw Tatus still held his griffon form, even though he showed no signs of consciousness. “No, they’re like pegasi, but with a shiny black shell instead of a coat. Their limbs are filled with holes as well.”

Lifting a claw, the griffon directed Shining’s eyes to Tatus once more. “A shiny black shell, I don’t see anything like that. Now can you let go of my friend and allow him to return to guard duty, or I’ll have to do something about this.”

As Shining searched for an excuse, he found his eyes drawn to the sky by movement there. What he saw had him gritting his teeth. We need to do something soon.

The remainder of the guard was coming down to join their fellow griffon, making a total of five he had to stand against.

Swinging his head backward, Shining looked to the only one who was on his side. “Cadence? Do you know any spells to remove a changeling’s illusion?”

Seeing the panic in Shining’s eyes and hearing it in his voice sent the same emotion rushing through Cadence’s mind. “No, I don’t,” She managed to say through the storm of thoughts that filled her head. One stuck at the forefront of them all, We need to do something now. “But I’ll try think of one.”

With steady breaths Cadence slowed down the torrent of panic flowing through her mind, trying to pull the few spells she knew by heart to the surface. Yet all she could think of was one. Heal him, heal him, heal him. Images of all her healings joined the thought, Cloud’s wing, Moretur’s wounds, both physical and mental, and her own leg.

All of those were things they didn’t want though? How will a healing remove Tatus’s second skin? Looking back to Shining, she saw he had a hoof held up, his head shaking, desperately trying to ward off the approaches of the griffons before him.

“Look, I know this seems like we’ve hurt your friend, but he’s really not what you think. He’s been tricking you this whole time.”

“If he really is this other creature,” One of the five griffons said back. “Then why does he look like the griffon we’ve always known?”

“That’s because he’s hiding under the illusion of a griffon. If you wait-”

Clenching her eyes shut, Cadence blocked out the words, her mind focused on the only thing she could do. I need to heal him. Focusing her magic, she sent it surging towards her horn, and unseen to her, a jet of blue burst forth from the tip, heading towards Tatus’s still body.

In her complete focus, Cadence couldn’t heard the gasps of five griffons as they watched a beam of ethereal blue pierce their friend. She couldn’t hear the ring of Shining’s horn as he fought to keep their initial rush forward back, at the same time conjuring an blue tent around them. The cries of the griffons, cut off from one they had known so well, she couldn’t hear them either.

Her mind was focused on glowing blue beam that cocooned Tatus like a caterpillar, hiding his body completely from sight. With no knowledge of how she was doing so, she could feel the feathers breaking down beneath her magic, revealing the truth of the one who lay inside.

It’s done, She knew once she felt her magic retreating, its duty complete. The beam of blue retreated to her horn, hiding within for when it would be needed next, leaving a dull blue still glowing around it.

Still facing the griffons and their claws scratching the ethereal walls between them, Shining saw none of this process. Only once he heard a laboured breath leave Cadence’s lips did he turn around to see a changeling lying beside his princess. She did it! What would I do without her?

Turned away from the griffons now, Shining expected to hear them quiet down to murmurings, yet their protests continued in full force. “We’ve given you long enough,” One of the griffons called through the ethereal wall. “Set Tatus free.” A murmur of assent ran through the other four.

Hearing that the griffons outside their glowing walls were still blind to the changeling lying before them, Cadence looked to Shining. “Why can’t they see him?”

Hoof massaging his head, Shining searched his mind for a reason. As he thought, another griffon landed behind the original five. “What is all this noise about?” The griffon called, his voice lifting Cadence’s heart.

It’s Red, She knew. Hopefully he’ll be able to convince them.

Stopping their assault on the ethereal tent for a moment, the griffons turned to face Red. “They captured Tatus a little while ago,” The blond and white feather griffon said. “And they’re holding him prisoner inside this magical thing.”

“The princess and prince, holding someone prisoner? I don’t believe this.” Red stepped up beside the griffons, stopping before the tent so he could look inside. “Do you mean that black thing inside there? Beside the princess?”

“What black thing? He’s lying right next to the pink one.”

A mixture between a laugh and sigh left Red’s beak. “I don’t know what you five are seeing, but I can’t see Tatus at all, only some strange black creature.” Lifting his voice, he called to Shining. “What is that?”

Red’s voice broke Shining from his thoughts. “A changeling,” He answered without thinking, the true meaning of Red’s words coming to him moments later. “Can you see it?”

“Of course. It’s like one of you, but black, and full of holes. What else should I be seeing?”

Watching Red, the blond griffon stepped towards him. “Are you with those ponies? Pretending you’re seeing something that’s not there.” The other griffons had soon turned to Red as well, eager to have a target they could reach.

Reading the aggression in the griffons, Red took a step back before holding up a claw. “Hey, I’m not pretending anything. I’m only saying what I see.”

“I’ve seen you with those ponies before,” One of the griffons said, stepping forward from the group. “You seemed pretty friendly with them then.”

“I am somewhat friendly, but the doesn’t change anything here.” In response to the group of griffons’ advances, Red took another step backward. “There’s no need to turn on me for this.”

Shining had moved to the edge of the tent as he watched the conflict, thinking of a way to aid Red without putting himself in danger. Observing Red’s backtracking, he noticed a ginger feathered hind leg poking through the ethereal wall. He can get in. “Red, come inside, you’ll be safe.”

“What?” The moment Red looked towards Shining’s voice, one of the five griffons leapt towards him.

On instinct Shining lit his horn, wrenching Red out of the way of the attacking griffon and into the safety of the tent. “Sorry about all this, we really rushed into it without thinking.”

Looking from the once again rioting griffons, to the sweating Shining, to Cadence and magic encased changeling beside her, Red nodded. “You sure did. This is one of the most insane things I’ve seen in all my years of living, the only thing to rival it is some of Jern’s relationships.” He chuckled to himself.

“It is crazy.” Shining shook his head. “I should have thought this through a little more, but I don’t understand why they can’t see Tatus for the changeling he is.” Drawing his a gasp, Shining’s eyes widened. “That’s it.” Turning, Shining stepped towards Cadence.

Following him, Red chuckled again. “Are you going to explain what you’re thinking? I’m still trying to understand the basics of this.”

“I’ll explain it all later.” Shining crouched beside Cadence, who was breathing in and out slowly, trying to recovering her strength from the healing. “Cadence, do you think you can heal a few more griffons?”

“Well…” Cadence’s eyes cracked open, her tongue still as she processed what Shining had said. “A few more? I can maybe do one more, but I think I’d be falling asleep by then. Did someone get hurt out there?”

“No.” Shining looked back at the five griffons, turned away from the tent now, explaining their side of the situation to a pair of newcomers. “At least not physically, but I think Tatus planted something in the minds of those griffons, they still see him as a changeling.”

“You want me to heal all five of them?” Jaw hanging loose and eyes wide, Cadence tried to imagine how exhausted her body would be after such an expenditure of magic. “I can try, but I need you to hold Tatus, in case he wakes up.”

Nodding, Shining lit his horn and surrounded the still unconscious changeling with his magic. “Of course, now can you do this quickly, please. The longer those griffons are like this the more trouble they cause.” Looking back outside the tent, Shining saw the five were now arguing with the newcomers, claws pointing every which way.

With a deep breath Cadence rose, silencing her horn. I need to preserve every bit of my energy for this. As she moved towards the edge of the tent, she thought over the exact process. I doubt they’ll stay still if I try to heal them, so I’ll have to hold them, and I don’t want to pass out after just one. Another breath entered her lungs, following the one that had just left. So I’ll do them all at once.

Noticing Cadence approach, a few of the five griffons turned towards her, two raising their voices, the other backing away when he saw the ringing of her horn. I hope they don’t struggle too much. Careful not to pick up anyone else, she scooped up the five griffons, holding them in midair as she lay down.

Their weak movements fought against the power of her magic, a mere tickling compared to the ache Cadence knew would be coming. Eyes closed, she took inhaled and exhaled, calming herself, blocking out all sound, every sensation. Moments passed and she could no longer feel the mattress she lay upon, nor feel the air entering and leaving her lungs. She could no longer sense her body, only the struggling griffons and her monstrous sea of magic.

Cadence recited the spell, but not with words, she could see the symbols painted out before her, as if she were looking directing into her mind. With the last syllable of the spell, she watched the symbols shimmer, and shatter into a thousand pieces.

The glowing blue sea within her rumbled, rippling for a moment before a snake of magic leapt through the surface. It widened as it moved towards the five suspended griffons, draining her pool of magic at a speed that sent a shiver of fear through Cadence. Yet in her complete focus, she took no notice of the emotion.

An instant away from the griffons now, the ethereal serpent opened its mouth, so wide it would easily swallow the five whole. Screams everyone on the ship heard filled the air, the snake snapping its jaw shut over the five before twisting to the side.

With its prize inside its belly, the glowing blue snake wound itself round and round, coiling into a ball. As it twisted and turned each segment melting into one orb, so bright, like the sun without heat. It flashed brilliantly, blinding all those watching, before crumbling away, leaving the five griffons suspended in midair.

Her sea of magic only left with a few drops now, Cadence felt herself falling, sensations leaking back into her consciousness. First the overbearing sound of dozens of voices yelling and screaming, then the sensation of a kiss on her cheek, then blackness, nothing.

“Mmmm.” The moment she felt the pain, Cadence groaned, but the disturbance of her vocal chords only made it worse.

“Are you awake Cadence?”

It was Shining’s voice, she knew. A small comfort against the claw of agony that was crushing her head. Despite the pain, she tipped her head, the closest to a nod she could manage, and even that made her want to scream.

“Here, have something to drink, you’ll be thirsty.”

Cadence felt something cold press against her lips. Her tongue felt as if it were no longer living, but more of a rock for the cold water to flow over, down the desert of her throat.

Swallowing, an instinctive reaction to the water, Cadence felt a pain that drowned out all the others, as if she were trying to drink a cup of stones rather than cool water. Yet she managed to push it down, her throat feeling better as the pain faded to a dull ache.

Feeling the wet wood touch her lips once more, a trickle of water flowing from it, Cadence swallowed another small gulp, her mouth wetting with want for more. Despite the pain it took to lift her head and swallow, the relief it brought her was worth it, each moment flooding the desert of her mouth into a lake.

As she drunk and the pain in her mouth faded away, a few thoughts dribbled into Cadence’s mind. Why does everything hurt so much? She wanted to push the thought to her lips, but they were occupied, and even if they weren’t, Cadence didn’t know if she could bear the pain she knew speech would cause.

Looking across the dry, throbbing landscape of her mind, Cadence searched for an answer from her memories. One came to her, Shining’s face full of confusion, his body mounted atop her. A wave of pleasure came with it. Well, at least we did that. She felt the slightest of smiles come to her lips at the picture.

“It’s good that you’re feeling happy Cadence,” Shining said, seeing the tiny curl of her lips. “You’ve been through a lot, and it’s going to take a lot to recover from this, from everything.”

Hearing a hint of what could have been sorrow in the last of Shining’s words, Cadence’s brow creased, bringing pain with it. What do you mean a lot to recover from? What happened? The inability to verbalise her worry only fed it, bringing the dull throbbing in her head to that of a dragon’s stomping.

“I know you want to know everything, but it’s best if you don’t think too much now.”

Cadence lifted her head to protest, but even a tiny movement filled it with a burst of pain, as if a rock had fallen onto it from high above. He’s right, She thought, relaxing, letting her head fall back into whatever cushioned it. I need to rest, wait till this pain goes away.

She sensed Shining stand and take a step backward. He stood watching her for a moment before sighing and walking away.

Why does he sound so sad? Cadence wondered. I need to know what happened. Ignoring her need for sleep, Cadence fished the hazy depths of her mind for memories, but the harder she tried, the murkier the waters became. There has to be something I remember. I should start at the beginning, where am I?

Head a mess of meaningless color, Cadence relaxed, an easy task for her tired mind, the hardest part was staying awake however. When she let go of her mind, she could feel it slipping in the warming darkness of sleep, a sensation her aching body desperately wanted. I have to at least remember where I am.

A blindingly bright blue sky hanging over a sea of sand leapt into her head, so vivid it sent a jolt through her body. Wincing at the slight movement, Cadence focused on the image, her mind’s eye looking to the great structure of wood and feathers soaring in the centre. The ship, She knew, another image following the one she had just seen.

With the second image came a light giggle and a white feathered face. Mila? The word felt like it fit, but she had no idea why, though there was little time to wonder as another image pushed the giggling griffon aside.

This one was of a pair of griffons, sitting across a tiny table from her. One was dressed in white and ginger feathers and the other white and chestnut colored. These ones came with no names, but once again Cadence felt a connection, like she knew them from somewhere.

Slowly, in drips and drops, memories entered her mind, some images, some sound, some simply sensations. She managed to piece a few of them together, but the entire puzzle was still unclear. Her aching head and body’s want to sleep only slowed her thoughts, each one taking longer to arrive than the last, until it seemed like the stream had stopped altogether.

I still don’t know why I hurt so much, She realised once the thoughts had stopped, the blackness of sleep threatening to swallow her mind once more. Maybe it will be clear once I’ve had some rest.

Taking a deep breath, she allowed her tired body to overcome the worries of her mind, sleep drowning her thoughts in a calming blackness.

Water broke against Cadence again and again, tiny waves somehow forming in the shallow pool she lay within. Looking around, she could see nothing but darkness, darkness and the water that wet her sides, so blue it seemed to glow.

For as far as she could see the pool stretched out, yet it did not seem very large, like there was still a lot of room for it to grow. Cadence had no worries of where she was or why, it felt natural to her, as if this was a place she knew well.

A sound echoed throughout the blackness around, a muffled voice, but one she knew well. Celestia. With her realisation Cadence felt a drop hit her head, the wetness sliding down her face and neck before finally reaching the pool below.

Drop after drop, soon a light drizzle was pitter pattering in the pool about Cadence, causing its level to rise. It didn’t just climb her body however, she could sense it spreading as well, the pool growing and growing.

Celestia’s muffled, indiscernible words filled the space around Cadence alongside the light rain, calm and motherly. They filled her chest with a warmth she had not felt in years, since she was only a young filly, one she had forgotten how much she missed.

Closing her eyes and listening to the drops falling around her, Cadence allowed the warmth to spread through and comfort her body. It assured her nothing could go wrong, that she would always be safe in its presence.

Then Shining’s voice joined the wordless mumbling, it did little to the rain above or pool Cadence lay within however. The only thing it brought was another warmth, one far stronger than the safety net of Celestia, one that spread her lips wide with a grin.

She lay there a while longer, relishing in the sensations she knew well, feelings that were long lost now returned. Why did I ever let these things go? Everything was fine.

A crack of thunder rang above, shocking the thoughts from Cadence’s mind and her eyes open. Expecting the light drizzle to have grown into a storm, she was surprised when she saw the glowing blue drops still falling at an easy pace.

The voices around her were changing however, Celestia’s was fading, the protective warmth with it, but Shining’s remained still strong. Searching for the comforting glow of Celestia inside, Cadence was relieved to find it still there, albeit distant.

In her thinking, Cadence noticed she could no longer clearly see the edge of her glowing pool, not that it had grown out of sight, but the rain was now hiding it from view. It seems to be falling harder now.

Another crack rang, this one bringing with it a torrent of rain. The wall of water around Cadence so thick she couldn’t tell where the rain started and the glowing pool ended. With it came more voice, a pair she knew well. Cloud and Skylight.

As their names filled her mind the rain slowed, but it was still falling faster than before, a hazy prison that blocked off her vision of the darkness behind. Looking down, Cadence noticed the pool had risen, now lapping at her chest where it had previously barely covered her legs.

I wonder if I’ll drown? Despite the morbid nature of the thought, it brought no alarm with it, but was merely an observation, simply a possibility being noted.

The sky cracked again and again, this time the strikes coming in quick succession, bringing with them waterfalls of rain. Cadence could feel it flowing down her back and wetting her mane, the pool coming up to touch her muzzle. She had no fear of the glowing blue water overcoming her however, it brought a warmth with it similar to Celestia’s, and assurance of safety.

Husky voice came and faded away, all alongside those of Shining, Skylight and Cloud. They’re dragons, Cadence knew, able to put names to some of the voices, others seemed foreign. The dragon’s voices soon faded away altogether, and with them the words of Cloud and Skylight, leaving Shining as her only companion.

The rain slowed as well, but by now Cadence could no longer see it, the pool of water far above her head. She glanced up and could still see the ripples it made of the surface of the glowing water.

By now the bounds of the blue pool around her were out of sight, seemingly limitless. With that knowledge came a great calm. I can do anything. The words floated through Cadence’s head, not a thought, yet it still seemed to come from her, somewhere deep inside.

High above the pool, voices of more dragons joined Shining’s, these ones not as welcoming as those previous. The thunder cracked again and Cadence could see the pool’s surface splashing as water overflowed into it.

Even with the great amounts of water, she knew something was wrong however. In all the other times she had never noticed the pool falling, but now it was coming back down to meet her. A great pressure came with it, a weight so heavy it seemed to be on the edge of tearing Cadence apart.

She felt her heart quicken with panic, body shaking, and even tears forming in the midst of all the water around her. Yet through all the pain and pressure, she Shining’s wordless voice was there, the sound comforting her enough to slow the falling water as her muzzle broke its surface.

A few breaths of the darkness filled her lungs before she felt the pressure fade away, and the torrent of water slow. The pool rose above Cadence’s head once more, higher than it had ever been before, so high she could no longer see its surface.

Once again the calm filled Cadence, the knowing that she could combat anything. Even though she could not see them, she could sense the edges of the pool still spreading, so wide she felt them touch another.

Celestia’s voice flashed through her pool for a moment, and with it the soft voice of another. Twilight. As quickly as they had come they left, and Cadence’s pool continued to expand, filling the limitless space around it.

A rumbling crept into the air, so gradually Cadence could not tell when it appeared, but she knew it was growing louder. With it came a sensation of unease, and also the a few voices that were only fresh to her. Mila…

Before she could try naming the other voices a crack rang out through the rumbling, and water flooded into the pool from above. Yet with the great increase of water Cadence felt the horrible pressure once more. It’s sinking.

It was a long while before she saw it, but the surface of the pool was falling towards her once more, and falling fast. It dropped over her body in a moment, taking the pressure with it, every voice as well, leaving her alone in the blackness.

The comfort of Shining’s voice, the comfort of the pool, even the dull comfort Celestia had left, it was all gone, only Cadence’s drying coat was left. All the water soon faded from her, taking the pink fur with it, leaving her bald.

The pink skin underneath faded as well, revealing the skeleton underneath. Every drop of life was sucked from her, leaving Cadence a dry pile of bones covered in dust.

I’m so thirsty, Was all she could think, her non-existent tongue craving something to wet it. I need a drink.

Eyelids fluttered open revealing the dimly lit room Cadence lay within, a mattress underneath her extending to the wooden wall. She took none of this in however, only one thought filled her head. Water, I need water.

Rolling over, she bared her teeth at the pain that throbbed at the base of her horn, eyes searching for any sign of a drinkable liquid. On the other side of the mattress Cadence spied a carved wooden bowl with a shimmering surface inside.

Wanting to drink from the bowl, Cadence focused on the base of her horn, intending to light it. Instead of the ringing she expected, pain exploded through her head and cascaded down her body, ripping a cry from her lips.

Darkness swarmed into Cadence’s head, the comforting blackness of sleep, there to take the pain away.

“Cadence?”

The voice came with a hoof touching her cheek, gently shifting her head into a more comfortable position. Movement brought Cadence back from her pain induced sleep. Pink eyelids fluttered open to reveal Shining standing over her, a weak smile on his lips. “Are you okay?”

Allowing herself to be put back into a sleeping pose, Cadence opened her lips to reply, only to have her barely living tongue stick to the bottom of her mouth.

“Oh,” Shining looked to the bowl of water beside the mattress. “Were you trying to get a drink?”

Managing a weak nod, Cadence watched as Shining picked up the bowl between two hooves and brought it to her lips. She drank and drank and drank, until the bowl was empty, yet her lips and mouth were still left wanting.

Cadence clenched her mouth shut once all the water was gone, balling up as much saliva as she could on her tired tongue. Concentrating, she forced her lips and tongue to go through the motions she wanted, ignoring the pain as their dry surface cracked. “More.”

Hearing the croak of a word, Shining stood instantly, nodding. “Of course, there’s as much water as you need on this ship.” With the bowl clutched between his teeth, he moved out of the room, Cadence listening to his hoofsteps faded away.

On this ship. Cadence went over the words again and again in her head, trying to deduce their meaning and learn her location. Are we on a boat? Creases formed in her brow. No, we were nowhere near the ocean.

While she tried to pick out a location from her scrambled memories, Cadence heard steps coming closer once more. Shining, he’s back. Ignoring the aching weight, she lifted her head slightly to watch him come.

There was an unease in the way he walked, the way he glanced over his shoulder every few steps. What is he looking out for? Cadence wondered. Are we in danger?

“Here, I’ve got some more water,” Shining said once he was standing over Cadence. As he crouched he glanced back over his shoulder once more before meeting Cadence’s eyes. Finding a questioning look there, a smile spread across his lips. “You’re wondering why I’m so watchful aren’t you?”

With the bowl pressed to her lips, Cadence avoided nodding for fear of spilling the water, instead she murmured. “Mmm.”

A long sigh left Shining’s lips, one that carried weight more weight than one his age should bear. “Then I should explain a few things to you.” Staring over Cadence’s shoulder, his mind worked. “But I don’t know where to start. Do you remember where you are?”

Having drunk the entire bowl by now, Cadence shook head head slightly, careful not to agitate her extremely sensitive horn.

“Then I should tell you that first.” Shining placed the empty bowl beside him before continuing. “You’re on a griffon ship.” Seeing confusion creep into Cadence’s face, he probed his mind for a better explanation. “Like a flying city, made of wings and wood.”

An image sprang into Cadence’s mind at the words. A great structure of wood and wings, soaring over a sea of sand with the blue sky behind it. Her eyes widened as it clicked into place in the puzzle of missing memories.

“I see you remember.” Shining breathed out laughter, shaking his head as he did so. “Then do you remember landing on the ship with, uh, me, on your back? Your leg wasn’t so healthy after that.”

Another piece fell into place, bringing a few more with it, slowly rebuilding Cadence’s shattered mind. Rorack and Ilcit, Mila was there as well. Then Red and Jern carried us somewhere.

“Then two griffons took you to your room.” Shining continued the story piece by piece, waiting patiently in the moments Cadence’s mind took longer to recovering. He was her eyes and listening for sounds of recognition before moving on.

“And then you fell asleep,” Shining finally finished, a sigh following the last few words from his lips.

Her mouth a little wetter by now, Cadence managed to utter two words. “How, long?”

“A long time.” Head falling, Shining kneaded at his forehead with a hoof, as if he were punishing himself for the answer. “We’ve almost crossed the whole desert now. We’re almost at,” Pausing, he bit his tongue to still the words about to come out. “Almost at the place where Abigail is held.”

The whole desert? Cadence’s eyes glazed over as she thought back to the image of the ship, flying high above the sandy sea that seemed to have no end. It must have been weeks, that’s why I was so thirsty.

“Anyway, I have to go, there are things I need to do.” As Shining rose, Cadence’s heavy foreleg lifted after him, begging him to return to her side. “I’ll be back tonight, with more water and some food. You should rest.” Taking the bowl between his teeth, he moved out of the room, steps fading away once again.

What would he have to do on the ship? Is he finally putting his plan to work? Although her heart hurt, Cadence felt a small smile on her lips. Well it’s good to see him finally using his talent.

With Shining gone, Cadence felt lost. Her body to weak to do anything, all she wanted was him at her side to talk with. So shut closed her eyes, willing herself to sleep, hoping the time would simply disappear and Shining would be at her side once again.

Yet her long rest seemed to have answered any cravings she had for sleep, and after what seemed like an eternity of counting her breaths, she opened her eyes again. Maybe a little walk will help me fall asleep.

Rolling onto her stomach, Cadence ignored the throbbing pain beneath her horn and tried to push herself upward. Her muscles were still tired however, and by the time she was upright all four of her legs were shaking. I’m so weak. A smile touched her lips at the thought. This must be how Shining felt when we came to the griffon lands.

Cadence lifted one of her hooves, testing the strength they held. After holding it in the air for some time, she moved it forward and placed it on the ground. It’s like I’m a foal again, taking my first steps. With complete concentration, she took another, and another. Soon she was off the mattress and standing on wood.

Lifting her head, Cadence looked into the hall outside her room, and was surprised to see no one there. I’m sure the ship was full of griffons before I fell asleep for weeks. Not letting this sway her, she moved out into the dark hallway with slow and shaky steps before looking left and right.

One end of the hallway stopped in a wall of wood, the other leading directly out to the sky. A pair of griffons stood, guarding the sky entrance. Wow, they even set up a guard to watch over me, Cadence thought as she turned towards them, almost toppling over when one of her shaky hooves slipped.

The slip pulled a gasp from her mouth, drawing the attention of both guards as Cadence regained her balance. “Princess?” One of them called. “You’re in no condition to be out of your room yet, you should be resting.”

Cadence’s opened her lips, protest on the tip of her tongue, but she held her breath. Even though her wings tingled with want for flight, they were also weighed down with aching. “Yes, you’re right, I can’t, sleep.” A yawn painful broke her cracked lips. “This walk, tired me.”

“I can imagine,” The other guard said, standing beside his comrade. “Being asleep for that long must take a toll on your body. Do you need anything to eat, or drink?”

Despite the pain in her stomach, Cadence shook her head, wanting to share a meal with Shining. “No, I’ll sleep.” The guards watched as she made a shaky turn and stumbled back to her room. She could hear them walking back to their posts once she had settled on the mattress once more.

Where on the ship am I? Cadence wondered as she tried to find a comfortable position with her aching body. It never looked like anywhere on the ship went right out to the sky, there was always a few doors in between. Searching through her limited memories of the ship, she tried to find one that fit the room she had just seen.

Well, maybe there are things I’m still forgetting, I’ll ask Shining when he gets back. Even though her walk had been no more than a few dozen steps, Cadence felt exhausted once more, sleep dancing around the corners of her mind, waiting to close in. Allowing it to embrace her, her mind slowly drifted away from the world.

“Cadence, I brought you something to eat.”

As the voice entered her ears, a delightful smell entered her snout. Cadence’s stomach growled, crying out with pain for the food. Opening her eyes, she found Shining setting a wooden plate and bowl beside her, a still steaming loaf of bread sitting atop the plate.

Despite the saliva pooling in her mouth with want to eat, she held back, licking her lips before speaking. “What happened, to pies?”

“The pies?” Question creased Shining’s brow for a instant, snapped away by a smile a moment later. “Oh, I threw them out, they had gone bad.” He glanced down at the loaf with concern before looking back to Cadence. “Don’t you want bread?”

“I do.” Even though her mouth was full of saliva, Cadence’s tongue and throat still felt too dry to swallow, so she looked to the bowl of water. For a moment she thought of lighting her horn, but it was still throbbing from the last time she had tried. Easing herself gently onto her stomach, she shuffled round to face the bowl before taking it between shaking hooves.

“So I heard you went for a little walk,” Shining said as he watched her drink, chuckling a little. “It’s best if you don’t push yourself too hard, I’ll be here to take care of you.”

Cadence nodded along to his words, drowning herself with water as she did so. When she had finished she gasped, placing the bowl back down. “I know, I feel useless.”

“No,” Shining said, glancing out of the room before continuing. “You did so much healing those griffons before you passed out, after something like that it makes sense that you’ll have to rest a bit.” His voice seemed weak though, as if he didn’t completely believe in the words that came from his lips.

Yet in her still half-asleep daze, Cadence failed to notice, simply thankful for some encouragement. “I know, still feel bad.” She expected him to lean in and kiss her, comfort her further, instead Shining remained silent, his eyes paying more attention to what lay outside the door than her.

Ignorant to his lack of attention, Cadence gave into her hunger’s need and took the bread between her hooves. The taste in her mouth made her stomach twist with pain, as if it were trying to reach up her neck and snatch the bite from her tongue.

Unable to control her stomach’s craving for food, Cadence swallowed the barely chewed bite, trying to force it down her still sore throat. Oh no. She felt the wet clump of bread stick to the back of her throat, blocking her breath. Pink eyes went wide as they looked to Shining, hooves motioning towards her neck. She tried to call out but only a choked gargling left her lips.

Turning towards the sound, Shining gasped when he saw the state Cadence was in. He stepped towards her, one hoof raised weakly, as if it had no idea what to do. After a moments pause, seeing Cadence’s eyes bulge from their sockets, he stepped around behind her. “Sorry, but I have to do this.”

Cadence felt his hooves around her neck, rolling up it in a quick motion before tugging at her throat in one hard jab. The ball of bread leapt from her throat and a breath of air entered. Falling from her lips, the bread landed on the mattress. “Thank, you,” Cadence managed between ragged breaths.

“It’s alright, I could never let anyone die like that.” Stepping out from behind Cadence, Shining moved round to face her, his eyes scanning over the gasping pony before him. “Are you fine now? Do you need some more water to help you swallow?”

“No.” Cadence smiled and shook her head softly, careful not to cause too much pain. “I simply got a little too eager for something to eat. Hopefully I’ve learnt to slow down.” Leaning forward, she made to kiss him as a thank you.

Confusion filled Shining’s features for a moment before he realised what she intended. He leant down towards her, offering his lips, the creases in his brow and tightly closed eyes seeming almost fearful to Cadence.

Seeing this, Cadence scrunched her own brow up with confusion. “Is something wrong?”

Shining drew away from Cadence, the mixture of fear and worry on his features now obvious. He glanced out the doorway before leaning close to Cadence and whispering. “Can you fly?”

“Well, I can barely walk.” Trying to open a wing, Cadence found herself unable to extend it all the way. “So I don’t think I could fly. Why? Is there somewhere we need to go?”

“Yes, no.” Shaking his head, Shining glanced out of the room once more. “I can’t tell you right now, but when you feel strong enough to fly tell me. I’ll be here everyday.”

Noticing the hints of terror in his face, Cadence lifted a shaking hoof to touch his cheek. “Why can’t you tell me Shining? What is happening?”

“I,” Shining began before stopping himself. “I can’t tell you right now, the less you know, the less, the less anyone else can know. No one else can know, so I haven’t told you this, okay?”

Cadence opened to her lips to protest further, but the fear in each of Shining’s quick glances to the door and back made her pause. He looks like he’s under enough stress already, I shouldn’t trouble him. “Okay.”

“Good.” Sighing, Shining’s shoulders deflated as he sat. “Now why don’t you eat something, and make sure you chew it properly this time?” He offered Cadence a comforting smile.

Allowing her pink eyelids to flutter open, Cadence felt a sinister grin spread across her muzzle. She turned to Shining, who sat on the expansive captain’s bed with her, staring obediently into her eyes. “It seems someone has a little plan.”

“What are you going to do about it?” Shining responded with slow, evenly paced words.

“We still have a few weeks before we reach our destination.” Cadence’s grin spread wider as a chuckle left her lips. “I think this might be just the fun I need to pass the time.”