The Strange Happenings of Artanis

Chapters

Arrival
Connecting the Dots
Settling
Royalty
Royal Welcome
Royal Summons
An Unexpected Arrival
Royal Wedding Pains
A Dream to Remember Pt. 1

Arrival

Note: Any of the the characters mentioned in the following story are the intellectual property of Hasbro and that of it’s creator Lauren Faust. The use of such characters are meant to be used in a comical fashion. No copyright infringment is intended. Please support the official release.

There isn’t a lot of strange things or anything of that nature that happen in my life. What little that does happen though, I welcome with outstretched arms and plate of cookies.

Though, one can enjoy the simple and sometimes mundane activities on a day to day basis. However, I’m not built like that. I always feel like I am stuck in a rut. I enjoy the exciting things and sometimes strange because it’s a break from the cold hard truth that is reality. I have a regular job at a gas station, and have the money to do anything I can think of. However, the only exciting thing to do is be at the casino. And ski. I’m not a big gambler, and skiing is pretty hard. And boredom is a clever hunter indeed, because I normally find myself tossing my mind into the air, pleading for it to come back with anything even remotely interesting. And that’s when it attacks. Sometimes my mind doesn’t come back at all.

I’ve recently have taken a liking into a show called My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, and will sometimes find myself remembering some of the scenes of the show. I have to say, I have enjoyed the show, and taking into account that the show’s target audience is little girls ages 5-11. But you know, what the hell.

I suppose I should get to why my life became strange. Coming home from work after an incredibly long and boring shift, I hit the shower and flopped into bed. As I slid the covers over my stomach and chest, I felt a sensation that even now is hard to describe. I chalked it up to me just tired and thought nothing of it. So when sleep came, I started to dream, or at least I thought it was a dream. There’s a scene in the movie MLP: FIM Equestria Girls where Twilight stepped through the mirror into the human dimension and was thrown into a rather colorful vortex. I found myself amidst this same kind of vortex and was screaming the whole way. I should note here, after my shower, I was fully clothed for the next day because I would get so tired and by the time I got up, my shift would be in an hour. No time to do anything really. So when I woke up, I was fully clothed in a field of grass, and the odd sound of shrieking.

I sat bolt upright and surveyed my immediate surroundings. Nothing, except, in between heavy breaths from the adrenaline pumping. I stood up to get a better view. I was wearing a black collared button up shirt with my nametag on it, dark blue denim jeans, my skate shoes, and oddly enough, my sword, which I keep by my computer in my room. None of this bothered me when I saw what was bearing down upon me. What appeared to be a herd of ponies in gold body armor and matching helmets. And their stare was locked onto mine.

Thinking I was in danger, I unsheathed my sword and stood at the ready. The sight didn’t seem to faze them and they surrounded me like indians attacking a wagon train back in the old west. Whinnes and snorts and the sound of hooves pawing the ground as they seemed to be sizing me up.

I clenched the sword in my hands and yelled “Come on! You want me?! Come get it! Who’s first?" I wished I was as brave as I sounded. Then, I see a shadow over me and it began to descend where the herd and I were facing off. The armored ponies looked up and stepped back from me. And then, touching down in front of me, was a white alicorn with gold hooves, gold crown, and a image of the sun emblazoned on her rather fetching rear. She regarded the armored herd and they backed away even more. Then the alicorn spoke.

“Greetings, I am Princess Celestia. Whom might you be?”

I’m not sure at what point I blacked out, but I knew I wasn’t on earth anymore. When I awoke, I found myself staring up into the faces of some rather alarmed looking ponies. And with those faces came voices.

“Oh dear is it alright?”

" He does seem awful strange to me sugahcube.”

“Oh, my. I-I think it’s waking up.”

“Stand back everypony. It could leap up and grab you!”

Shaking my head from the daze I was in, I looked up and saw what appeared to be three ponies, mares looking at me with fear. One was a purple unicorn, her horn glowed brightly. Another one was an orange and blond pony, though nothing like a horn or anything stood out. And the last one was a butter yellow pegases with pink hair and beautiful blue eyes. One more shake of my head, I took in another look at them, and said, “well, I know I’m dreaming.”

A small blast of purple energy hit my left arm, it stung but it was enough to illicit a yelp from me, cofirming I was not dreaming.

-To Be Continued-

Connecting the Dots

“Ow”!

“I won’t ask again you, you, whatever you are”, said the purple unicorn.

I rubbed my arm to try to ease the pain from the blast. It felt like I was rubbing my feet on carpet and I put my arm on a metal pole.

“My name is Artanis, and I am a human. And who in God’s name are you?”!

All three mares looked shocked and they backed away. I tried to move my arm to my left, but found it difficult to do so. “Oi, why can’t I move”? I asked. “That zap I gave you was an immobilization spell, so you won’t be able to move for a while.” the purple unicorn hissed. “And I am Twilight Sparkle. These are my friends, Applejack and Fluttershy." Both ponies waved at me. I was dumbfounded. How was it possible that the characters I’ve seen on T.V. were actually real? I shook my head and closed my eyes for a moment to make sure I was seeing everything right.

This can’t be true. “Wait, I know who you are. But if this is true, then I must be…" I trailed off, coming to a conclusion that made no sense to me. If I’m here and these ponies are in front of me, that could only mean one thing. " You’re in Ponyville sugahcube. The best place in all of Equestria" Applejack said with obvious pride in her tone. I groaned. "How did this happen? One minute I was in my own bed, and the next I was in a field." Twilight looked up and cocked her head to the side, as if trying to piece everything together. " It is odd that you are here. But I cast that spell a week ago.”

“What spell? I asked, voice shaking.

“Well, the princess sent me a spell to try out. She said if done right, the spell would summon something from a different dimention." I started to shake more as everything clicked into place. That tingling I felt, it was Twilight’s spell. But, how? "But, why did you summon me? Why am I here?”

“Maybe it was a fluke. I really didn’t concentrate on what I was summoning”

“There has to be a reason for it" I said, beginning to feel strength return to my arms.

“I think this is a matter best left to the princess." Twilight explained."We are actually going to see her in a couple of days. In the meantime, we need to find a place where we can house you." Twiligth shot a glance at the other two mares. Applejack shook her head. Fluttershy looked flustered but agreed to let me stay with her.

-To Be Continued-

Settling

Finding a place to sleep is pretty easy. Where I'm from, pulling teeth is easier.

It seems everyone, rather, everyPONY, jumped at the chance to provide sleeping arrangments. As expected though, Twilight had it and I found myself grateful that she was just as organized as she was on the show. I was still trying to figure out why I was pulled here. But I figured that the Royal Sisters had an answer.

Walking around Ponyville was strange. I recognized everything, from Twilight's library, to Sugarcube Corner. And after a mixed frenzy of wonder and shock and a sprinkle of panic, I was widely accepted. I honestly thought the residents would have a harder time with it.

Guess strange was the norm. Making our way through the center of Ponyville, we were crossed by three fillies. They stopped dead in front of me and my pony entourage. They looked at me, then at Twilight. And again at me, and then Twilight. So to break the awkward silence, I kneeled down to the level of the three fillies and gave them the best smile I could muster.

"Hello Cutie Mark Crusaders." Again, silence. "Names Artanis." Silence. Finally, the white one, Sweetie Belle, piped up.

"Uh, hi?" Then AppleBloom was next to speak. "What are you?" Applejack shot a stare at her sister. "AppleBloom!"

I chuckled lightly. "No worries Applejack. I am a human. I suppose you have never seen one before." All three shook their heads.

I stood up. "Heh, well you have now." They still seemed a little scared, so I tried to put their minds at ease by asking; "So, how goes the search for the cutie marks"? At this, their wide eyes got wider, then drooped in sadness. "Well,", started AppleBloom, "We still haven't found our special talent yet. But Ah think we're close! We were gonna try somethin' but now Ah can't remember.".

I laughed lightly. "Well, keep at it. I know all of you will get yours someday." "Well, how did you get yours"? Scootaloo asked, indicating my right forearm. "Yeah! And isn't it supposed to be on your leg"? asked Sweetie Belle.Laughing once more, I knelt down again. "Well, see, humans don't have cutie marks. And this" pointing to my right forearm, " this is called a tattoo. It's like a cutie mark but it's something I put on." They seemed to wince at my description. " Did it hurt"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "Well, yes, it did, but it all worked out." "What is it"? Asked Scootaloo. "Where I'm from, it's called a vambrace. A piece of armor." I held my arm out to give them a better view. They seemed amazed that something like a tattoo could be put on. Their eyes were filled with wonder and a hint of an idea. I suddenly felt uneasy. So to quash any ideas, "This is something I got when I turned eighteen. I could only get it when I got older. Not something I would do if I was your age.". They seemed dismayed at this news, but I tried to lighen them up. "But, I'm sure getting your cutie marks would be painless, which reminds me, weren't you trying to do that just now"? They all lit up at this and raced off. I laughed and we continued to Fluttershy's cottage, where I would spend the night and tomorrow, we would be off to meet royalty.

-The Next Day-

I woke up to the sound of a rooster crowing and Fluttershy coming up the stairs. Before she got to my door, I was up and making the bed, as any good guest would do for his host. A knock on the door. "Come in." I said. The door opened and the pegasus walked in with a piping hot cup of coffee in her teeth. She gave me the cup. " Good morning Artanis. Did you sleep well"? She asked, still shy to speak up. Even though it was hot, I drained my cup and set it down on the nightstand. "I did, thank you. We are leaving for Cantelot today yes"? I asked, as I knelt to the floor to stretch. "Um, yes we are." She looked at me with a puzzled look on her face. "Um, what are you doing"? She asked. I continued my stretching and moved to doing push-ups I tried to speak in between pushing myself up from the floor, grunting as I spoke. "Oh, well *urgh* I am *grr* warming up *huff* for the day." I explained, grunting. She let me finish the ten I set out to do. "Oh that must be good for you. Um, I mean, to do that.". I nodded and stood, and headed to the bathroom. I turned to her at the door. "Is it ok if I use your shower"? She nodded her head at me. "l'll be out shortly.", I said. She cantered out the door with a cup in her teeth. After showering, I pulled my clothes on and made sure I had everything on me. It was a habit of mine to check to see if I had everything I needed for the day, though if I knew I was coming to Equestria, no amount of gear I had would have prepared me for this. Cell phone, useless, check. Wallet, useless but still needed, check. Knife, check. Sword, check. I still wondered why I had it, but decided not to dwell on it feeling I would need it. Having everything I needed, I walked downstairs. Getting to the bottom, Fluttershy was doing what she did best, caring for her animals. Seeing me coming downstairs, she flashed a smile at me. "Ready to go"? She asked me. I nodded my head, and we both set out for Twilight's library.

-To Be Continued-

Royalty

Now heading to Twilight's place. It's a b-e-a-utiful day. The weather pegasi are incredible in doing what they do. It's just too bad I don't have that in my world. Reverting to type, we arrived at Twi's place. Knocking on the door, the lavender unicorn steps out with saddlebags to match. She looks at the both of us but then stared at me "Isn't that the same outfit you arrived in?" She asks.

I nodded. "Well, it's not like I planned for this to happen. If I did, I would have brought extra." I said with a slight smirk on my face. I knew Twilight was a fairly serious type of pony and, as a result, didn't quite get some jokes or sarcasm. So, I made the extra effort to make sure what I said on some occasions to be a joke. It didn't work some of the time. She blushed at my remark. "Yeah, I am sorry for doing that." She scuffed the floor with a hoof. I reached up and patted her shoulder, indicating it was fine. "To be honest Twi, I'm kinda glad this has happened. My world isn't the most exciting place in my galaxy. Any excitement or distraction is welcome in my book." I gave her a smile, which she returned.

I heard the sound of hoofsteps behind me. I turned to see who it was. Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash,and Pinkie Pie all trotted up to the library, all carrying saddlebags of their respective coat colors. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie stared at me in amazement. "Whoa, so humans DO exist!" Pinkie was still staring at me, as if trying to asess me for danger. I gave her a quick smile. "Hi Pinkie Pie. I'm Artanis." She didn't return any sort of response, which I found to be disturbing. Normally, she would be all over a new visitor like rust on a nail. This was a different Pinkie. I shrugged and turned to Twilight. "Ready to head out y'all"? I asked the ponies surrounding me. They all nodded in response, except Pinkie. With that, we all made our way to the train station. Twilight walked beside me and indicated my katana. "Is that nessesary"? I looked down at my blade, then at Twilight, and nodded. "I'd perfer to keep it with me. It's a habit really. If I don't have a blade on me, I feel naked. Defenseless." Fluttershy trotted to catch up with us. "Is it violent where you were?" Fluttershy asked with genuine concern. I glanced at the pegases, and looked forward. "In some places, yes. However, it is illegal to carry something like this around. Which is why I have taken to carrying a knife on me." I patted my left pocket, indicating where my spare blade was. We arrived at the station. The conductor gave me a strange look. We all boarded the train, and we were off. It was a long way to Canterlot, and I marveled at the castle as we approached. De-boarding the train, we all made our way to the castle. We were greeted by a battalion of guards who eyeballed me the most. Trumpets sounded, and the main doors opened to reveal the two alicorn sisters at their thrones.

We approached the thrones with respect. Twilight was on point. She and the others bowed to the Princesses, and I knelt to one knee, as I would have to any other form of royalty. Princess Celestia nodded in return. "My faithful student," she spoke with the same proper tone as in the show, "I see you have brought a new friend along with your other friends. What brings you here today?' Twilight nodded and motioned for me to approach, which I did and kneeled down with the purple unicorn. "You must be the one Twilight mentioned in her letter. May I have your name?" She asked with a smile. I looked up at the two alicorns. Celestia, was just as radiant as they portrayed her on the show. Luna, with her dark blue coat and piercing eyes looked at me with an air of suspicion. "My name is Artanis Jerin, your Highness." I tried to speak with dignity but found I was shaky as I spoke. Celestia seemed to catch on and she smiled. "You needn't be so nervous here Artanis." I gave her the best smile I could muster. "My apologies, it's not everyday I get the chance to meet royalty." She spoke again. "It is alright. Now, perhaps we can now address why-"

Celestia was cut off by an explosion near the perimeter of the castle. We all looked at where it came from to see a couple of Changelings fly through the hole. They quickly looked around and their gaze centered on Luna. They charged toward her with blinding speed. I saw where they were headed and I boosted toward the shrinking space between them and Luna. I unsheathed my blade and slashed at them with one quick motion. They fell to the floor. I struck a guard in front of Luna, in case some more decided to bomb into the hall. Seven more appeared and saw their fallen bretheren. Then they looked at me and flew toward me. I smiled grimly and tightened my grip. I brought my blade up and swung it through an infinity loop as more poured in toward me. Luna ducked behind me, unsure of what to do. Finally, the last one screamed and bombed toward me. Looking up, I slashed at my attacker. Flying past me, he hovered for a moment before landing on the floor with a thud. I re-sheathed my katana, soaked in cyan blood, and turned to Luna, who was still coiled up on the floor. I knelt down in front of her and took one of her hooves in my hand "Are you okay, Princess?" I asked softly. She looked up at me with a grateful look. "Y-Yes, we are, b-brave human. T-Thank you for saving us." She even spoke the same way on the show. I nodded to her and helped her to her hooves. I stepped down off the platform where they both sat, while some of the unicorn guards repaired the wall the Changelings busted in through. Another group took care of the pile of freshly dead Changelings beside the platform.

Celestia seemed taken aback at the performance. I turned to face her. "Now, you were saying Your Highness." She still seemed speechless, but quickly shook it off. "*ahem* Well, first, thank you for saving my sister. I feel as if I should reward you. Name your price, noble Artanis." I thought about it but shook my head. "Maybe later Majesty. For now, lets get to why we're here. Namely, why I'm here." She seemed to stumble for a moment before catching her bearings. "Of course."

-To Be Continued-

Royal Welcome

She still seemed shaken by what I was capable of. Luna was still in a state of shock. I gave her a quick smile as Celestia gathered her thoughts. "Well, it is strange that Changelings would appear after the Queen was banished. Why would they appear?" She seemed to stumble once again but Twilight quickly recovered her teacher. "Princess, how is it possible that Artanis was pulled here?"

She seemed determined to get answers, as was I but I had some patience for that due to what happened moments ago. I was able to jump between Luna and her attackers with little effort. Had I have been on Earth, that would not have happened. I then wondered if the properties of this planet were able to let me do such things. I had to shake that thought as the sun princess's eyes came around and met mine. "Tell me Artanis, what were you doing before you arrived here?" I thought hard before answering. "Well, I just got home from working, and I took a shower, and went to bed. Before I drifted off though, I felt a pain in my chest and a tingling sensation. I shrugged it off thinking I was tired. Then I had a dream where I was pulled into a vortex of some kind." I left out an example of what the vortex looked like, fearing the already tense situation would be more so than now.

The princesses were conversing between themselves now. They parted and Celestia spoke again. "Dear Artanis, the manner in which you were brought here was an accident. It should not have happened." Twilight's ears were sinking below the princess's words. I gave her a quick nudge to indicate it was ok.

"Unfortunantly, at this time we cannot send you back. And so with that in mind, it would seem you are in need of a place to stay. And I must reward you for saving my sister. So, on behalf of all of the citizens of Equestria, I hearby welcome you as a new resident of Equestria." Luna seemed to gain a smile and looked at me. She seemed grateful for me jumping in there. I returned her smile and un-sheathed my katana and laid it out in my hands. I stared at Celestia, and took a knee once more. I bowed my head. "My princesses, in return for your generosity and your kindness, I offer my blade and my services to you." I felt the sword rise from my hands and looked up. Celestia had used her magic to take it from me. She then used her magic to take my scabbard off my hip and she re-sheathed my sword and looked at me. "Thank you once again Artanis. I must ask that you leave your weapon with me. For you see, we do not carry such things. However, I do realize the dangers of the outside world. So, with that said. . ." She walked up to me, and she bowed her head and her horn touched the top of my head. I felt some sort of energy run through me. Not painful, but it was there. I instantly felt energized. She motioned for me to rise.

"Artanis, for showing loyalty to those that you do not know, and showing courage to stand up in the face of adversity, I hearby bestow upon you three gifts. Magic, the ability to fly, and. . ." She then levatated what looked to be a handle. I outstretched my hand and the object was placed in my hand. I gripped it and then my hand was surrounded by some sort of blue aura. I felt this coming from me and then the object was bathed in the same glow. Both ends extended into a staff. My eyes widened at this. I knew how to use one.

The princess of the sun then walked to a balcony, where a massive crowd had gathered. Celestia then rose her voice. "Citizens of Equestria, as some of you know, there has been rumor of another being in our midst. Well, there is. His name is Artanis. He is from another world and as such, stranded. He looks to seek your friendship for he will be here a while." Taking my cue, I stepped up between Luna and her sister. Luna was still smiling, I returned it and looked out at the crowd. "Citizens of Equestria, your princesses have allowed me to stay in this wonderful place. And, as it was said, I am seeking your friendship and understanding. For as long as I am here, I vow here and now, that as an ambassador of my race, I will stay true to this place. I hearby offer my hand in friendship, in hopes it will be returned." With that, the cheer was deafening. I then raised my staff and extended it outwards. "For Equestria"! I shouted.

-A Few Days Later-

Getting a job in Ponyville isn't a daunting task, especially if you have what others don't, hands. I was working in the Apple Family's orchard with Applejack who was more than willing to give me work. I was loading a basket of apples onto a cart, when Applejack piped up. "Y'all hear that?" I cocked my head to one side and listened. It sounded like many hooves. "Sounds like a stampede." I said. She nodded and took off. I made sure I had my staff and followed. She was in a full gallop, and remembering Twi's instruction, I put one hand out and waved it in front of me. I was already fast but the spell I performed made me as fast as Applejack, and faster. I saw what the distrubance was. A herd of cows were headed straight for Ponyville. I made my way to one side of the herd while AJ went to the other side. I heard Wynona bark as she ran ahead of the herd. "Put 'em up Wynona"! AJ commanded. The dog obeyed and jumped on top of one of the cows. AJ did the same and produced a rope. "AJ, get them sorted. I'll head 'em off at the bridge!" I yelled. She nodded and lassoed the lead cow. Pulling my staff out, I performed the same speed spell and got ahead of the herd. Then, using another spell I learned on my own, I produced a fireball in my free hand and lit both ends of my staff. Putting out the ball of flame, I used my right hand to put the staff into a spin. The herd spotted this and changed course, while AJ with the cow she roped, hauled it back with a mighty pull. The herd turned and and stopped. AJ had a conversation with the herd and as if nothing happened, trotted back to where they came from. We both crested a hill overlooking Ponyville. And with that. a massive cheer came up from the crowd of ponies. AJ reared back and kick her front legs up with a YEE HAW!

Royal Summons

Finally getting home after helping my new pony friends in the orchard, I hit the shower. The water was warm and every smell that was coming off of me soon left. I never knew I could see so many apples at one time How does AJ do it? Stepping out of the bathroom and pulling on new bed clothes which Rarity had so generously provided, I heard a knock at the door. Who could that be? Grabbing my staff which I had taken to carrying everywhere with me, I approached the door. "Who is it"? I asked through the door. "I am the royal guard to Princess Luna. I have a message for an Artanis Jerin." I opened the door slightly to confirm who it was. Sure enough, it was a night guard. I opened the door all of the way, pocketing the staff.

"A message, for me? Please come in. I'm sure you're pretty tired from the flight." I stepped to the side to let the guard in. He glanced aroung the living room, taking in details as he walked in. I shut the door and directed him to the pony friendly couch I had bought not too long ago. Working in AJ's farm has really brought in the bits. I really have taken to the vocabulary used here I thought. Reverting to the present, I looked at the armored pony sitting on my couch. "Would you like some water or coffee?" I asked trying to be a good host. He seemed relived at the idea of water and I got up to get him a glass. "So tell me sir," I called from the kitchen, "what news from the royal sisters is contained in this letter?" I walked in with a very large glass of water. He drank it all in three gulps. Wiping his mouth, he composed himeslf. "*ahem* I am not certain of the contents. The princess has expressed to the messanger that this is to be for your eyes only." I sat back wondering what could be so secretive? I leaned forward again. "Very well, let's have it." The pony shuffled through his saddlebags and produced a scroll with the royal seal on the outside. I held it for a moment before returning my gaze to the pony messanger. "Was there anything else?" I asked. He shook his head and headed for the door. I got up to follow him to let him out. With an about-face motion I didn't think quadrapeds were capable of, he saluted me, which I returned as sharply as he gave it. He then made another about-face and took off into the night sky.

I closed the door after he was out of sight and returned to my couch. Popping the seal, I unrolled the parchement which smelled of perfume. Hmm I thought. I then read the letter the princess of the night sent me.

Dearest Artanis,

I write to you because I never go the chance to thank you personally for saving me during our meeting. I wonder if there would be a way to meet so that I may do as such face-to-face?

Yours, Princess Luna.

I noted the signature was ever so intricate. Setting the letter down, I pulled on my normal clothes which again Rarity made for me. It wasn't anything special, a blue polo shirt, blue jeans, and the shoes I arrived with. Stepping outside into the cool night, I jogged to Twilight's library. I was relieved to see the lights were still on. I walked up to the front door of the tree house and knocked. Spike opened the door. "Oh, hey Artanis! Were you looking for Twilight?" He seemed to warm up to me since I arrived here. Even Pinkie Pie got used to me and threw me a rather legendary welcome party. Though I had expected as much from the pink party mare, if you aren't there to really experience it, then it's all you'll see on the screen. "Actually, I came to see you." I said. The purple dragon seemed shocked. "You have the ability to send letters to Princess Celestia right?" I asked him. He puffed out his chest in apparent pride. "I sure can." He said. "Well, I wonder if you send one to Luna." He cocked his head to one side.

"Luna? Why do you want to send a letter to Princess Luna?"

"I got one from her not too long ago. I want to respond and I thought about you."

Spke seemed touched by this sort of recognition. "Well, I can try." He said. Walking into the library, I took a deep breath. The smell of books is one of the few smells I like. Spike directed me to a chair. I sat and he ran over to a drawer filled with papers and quills. He brought his small load over to where I was sitting. "Want me to write it for you?" He asked. I nodded, not fully knowing how to write with a quill. He readied himself to write. Dear Princess Luna, I have recieved your letter and would be more than happy to meet with you once more. Name a time and date. Your friendly neighborhood human, Artanis Jerin.

Spike looked up after I stopped speaking. "Is that it?" He asked me. I thought for a moment and nodded. "Yeah. I think that will do." He wrapped the scroll and sent the letter with a green flame send-off. Not two minutes passed and I heard Spike groan and burp. He walked over to me and handed me the scroll. I unwrapped it and read it. I pocketed the scroll and waved to Spike as I made a rather hasty walk to the door. "Thanks Spike. See you later!" He ran to the door and called after me. "What did he say?" He yelled. I turned and started to run backwards. "I must prepare for royalty! I shouted back. I turned again and continued to run back to my house.

-To Be Continued-

An Unexpected Arrival

Returning to my house, I looked around to see what needed tidying up. I kept a pretty tight ship but you never know. I decided to just get some refreshments ready, in case the conversation got to be long. I wasn't sure what sort of food a princess would like but I was willing to try to please her. Finally getting the food together, I sat the plates out and some napkins, with some water or tea. I then got ready for the arrival of The Princess of The Night. I sat on my couch and waited. I looked up at the clock and it read 8:30 PM. So I sat back for a bit wondering what she wanted, aside from thanking me for saving her, though I would have done that for anyone or pony for that matter. It was instinctual really. I closed my eyes for what seemed like only a moment.

I opened my eyes to an ongoing battle. Though I couldn't make out the shapes, there was definantly bloodshed. I turned in response to a battlecry behind me. I turned and unsheathed my sword. I wasn't sure how I'd got it back from Celestia, but in a dream, nothing made sense. When I turned to face my aggressor, a familiar face along with a startled look stopped the scream. "Artanis! Is that you?" questioned the figure. Here's something you may not know. I had the ability to control my dreams. So when the voice asked if it was really me, everything around us stopped. I closed my eyes for a moment and everything that was a scene of chaos, was just white. Every bit of the battle was gone, and I could see my unexpected visitor. I turned the blade in my hand so it was a revers grip, and kneeled down before the princess. "Well well," I smirked, "When you said you were going to see me, this is not what I had intended on." She motioned for me to rise. I sheathed my blade once more. "Time in the dream realm is more fluid than time in a real-time realm. I am sorry for not being specific as to my form of arriving. For you see there is something I have been wanting to say ever since I laid eyes on you." I waited for her next words, gulping in hesitant expectation. I shut my eyes for only a moment, then I became aware of something in front of me. I opened my eyes. There was Luna, but it wasn't Luna. She was a little shorter than I was standing up, her skin still carried a navy blue tone, but she was rather slender. I stepped back to get a better look. She had tramsformed into a human. I gulped again because her figure would make any man lock up in stunned amazement. She stepped up to me again, an whispered, "thank you" and locked lips with mine. The feeling of being stunned was multiplied by at least 20%. I resisted any urge to pull her closer. She seemed to read my emotions and lifted one of my arms and put it around her slender waist. I then felt every nerve ending in my body explode. Her kiss was electrifying. She broke it and smiled at me. She then turned to walk away, looking back once more and dissapeared into vapor, leaving me to wonder what just happened.

When I opened my eyes again, I was back in my own home. Drool formed on the arm rest of the couch. I wiped my face and looked around. The room was bright with light. Was that real?

[center-To Be Continued-]

Royal Wedding Pains

Weddings were a pain. Doesn't matter what universe you're in. I ought to know, in my earnest effort for a job in my young adult stage of life, I was a "grunt' as it were, for a catering company. I served food, moved tables, and set up the wedding reception. And if there is one thing I dreaded the most while working such events, was the mother in law of the bride to be. If the wife wasn't being a "bridezilla", it was the mom always fussing over the most minute details.

So, when I was invited to a wedding in Canterlot, my feelings were mixed. On one hand, I would be the first human honor guard of the bride, the first of many to come. On the other hand, I had thought I would have to deal with the mother of the newest princess, Mi Amore Cadenza, or Cadence, as she perferred me to say. While it is a glorious occasion in which two spirits became one, I found myself rather uneasy while escorting Cadence around. I was given my sword for the occasion and I was dressed in what looked to be a Captains outfit, though with some effort from Rarity, was made into a outfit suitable for a human. Shining Armor, who when Twilight found out about the marraige, was related to Twilight. It was a bit of a shock to me though. I mean, I knew she had ties to Canterlot, but with the captain of the guard? Heh, I wish I had such connections.

But something about Shining set off some warning signs in my head. He seemed to always have a headache, but he said it was because of the forcefield around the city. There was a threat made against the capital, after all and that did make sense. But he always seemed like he was stoned. There was no such things as drugs here in Equestria, so I knew something was amiss.

Perhaps I was being paranoid. I wasn't sure. I always was when I worked a brief stint as a security guard.

Cadence was rather surprised when she found out there was indeed a human in Equestria. I even picked up a hint of fear, though I took it as pre-wedding jitters. 'Tis a big step in a relationship.

The ceremony was starting, with Princess Celestia as the official minister. I led the bride procession, and when I reached the end, I drew my blade and saluted Shining with it. He regarded me with a nod and I resheathed the blade and stepped to my right, allowing Candence to reach the steps. But before the sun princess got a word out, a shout of defiance rang out from the crowd. "Twilight?" I said as I looked down the aisle. Twilight stood there, her horn glowing. "Thats not the real Princess Cadence!" She shouted. I looked over at the alleged fake love princess. Her eyes swelled in tears. "Why is she trying to ruin our special day?" She got out in sobs. Celestia regarded Twilight in a aire of suspicion. "Twilight Sparkle, if you evidence of this claim, bring it forth now." The princess of the sun said to her student. With a burst of telekinesis from Twilight, the doors to the wedding hall burst open and my eyes widened at who was standing there. With the exception of how messy she was, another Candence made her way slowly to the stage. "I am the real Cadence, Chrysalis!" She bellowed in challange. The Cadence on stage suddenly smiled a sinister smile reserved only for a villian.

With a burst of green flames, the fake morphed into a Changeling Queen. Long, greasy light green mane, black coat, insect wings, and hooves and horn that looked like they were decaying. After her transformation, she let loose a rather evil laugh. Princess Celestia stood agast with disbelief, but quickly shook her head and her voice carried a serious tone, "You- You shall not win!" With that she boosted into the air as her horn charged up with energy, and shot out in a yellow beam. The bug queen let loose her own green beam and struck the yellow one. They seemed to be at a standstill, when the green beam gained ground and struck Celestia's horn and threw her back to the floor, her tiara clanking to the floor. The Mane 6 rushed to her side as Chrysalis laughed. "Ha! Shining's love energy was more powerful than I thought!"

I stood there as all of what happened hit me. I was helpless before, unsure of what to do. And then, I stepped to the aisle, my eyes, as Pinkie Pie pointed out later, were flaring with magical energy. "You! YOU! YOU MONSTER!" I shouted. My being was engulfed in a blue blaze of magic aura. I held my right hand up and snapped my fingers, which broke Shining from his daze. The queen looked at me with fear, as everything she planned was falling apart. But I looked at her and she got the feeling it was about to get much worse. Bringing my hands together, the aura began to swirl around me. "I summon the power of the Elements of Harmony. I summon the power of love." With the command of my words, each element caught in the whirlwind of magic surrounding me. Then a pink stream that came from Shining and Cadence snaked its way to the whirlwind. It then condensed into my right hand as an orb of light. I used my left hand to cup the top of the orb and in true super saiyen fashion, drew it back as it charged in my hands. I looked at the shapeshifting queen and if she wasn't pale before this, she was now. I shouted " TASTE THE RAINBOW MOTHERFUCKER!" and thrust my hands out releasing the ball of light toward the fake. The orb exploded on impact, throwing the queen herself and her Changeling horde out of the capital city. The forcefield exploded allowing the bug army to be sent screaming out of Canterlot.

-To Be Continued-

A Dream to Remember Pt. 1

If there is one thing I have never known, it's my own prom. Never got the chance to go. I got to go to my Homecoming, but it wasn't the same. After the events of the wedding, the next big wing-ding was almost right around the corner, The Grand Galloping Gala.

I was sitting in the library absorbed into a book when I heard hoof steps padding back and forth. I brought my book down to see Twilight Sparkle pacing the floor.

"Twi? Everything alright?" I asked. Though her expression was one of worry and excitement.

She looked at me. "The Gala is in two days. I have two tickets to go, but I don't know who to take." Her tone was wrought with worry. "If I take one instead of another, they might not be friends with me anymore, and my mission to the princess would have failed."

I got up and laid a hand on her shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Twi, you're smart, I'm sure you'll know who to take." I was already set for the Gala. Rarity was making me a suit that should be ready today. The invite was from none other than Princess Luna herself. She added a note to the invite that, even then, was still wracking my brains on what she meant. "Prepare thyself for a night to remember." That's what was on the attached invite. Back on Earth, I always liked Luna in the show. And to physically see her was unlike anything else.

Twlight gave me a smile. "I think I'll take a walk. Let Spike know I went out."

I nodded my head. "Think I'll do the same and head to Rarity's place. Spike! Headed out!" I called out to the purple dragon.

He yelled back his acknowledgement and we set out on our separate paths. It was a beautifully sunny day. The weather pegasi always did a fantastic job making days lovely. I made my way toward the boutique when Sweetie Belle, Rarity's sister bumped into me.

"Oh, sorry mist- hi Artanis!" She chirped at me with her usual smile.

I smiled back. She is gonna be a real heart breaker when she got older. Those eyes would melt many a stallions heart. "Where you headed Sweets?" I gave most of my pony friends nicknames. They didn't seem to mind, most enjoyed it. Sweetie Belle giggled.

"Just headed home. Where are you going?" She asked.

"Your sister was making a suit for me. I was headed over to see if it was ready."

She smiled. "Shall we walk together?"

"Of course. And you can tell me how you girls are doing on your marks." She smiled and proceeded to regale me on their latest attempt. My thoughts were elsewhere. Mainly on how I met Luna for the first time. She seemed grateful to me for saving her from those bugs. I was just glad my sword training wasn't all for naught.

"And then we got sucked into the taffy stretcher!" She finished. We both ended up in front of the boutique's door. She opened it and walked in.

"Sis! I'm home! And you have company!" She shouted. For a small filly, she can make herself known.

"Sweetie, really there is no need to shout." She admonished her sister. Rarity looked at me. "Artanis darling, there you are. Your suit for the Gala is finished." She opened a curtain and shows off her creation. It was a blue suit, the embroidery had a peacock feather flair to it. The top hat also had the same pattern on it, with a blue gem on the front. She grins at me. "Tell me darling, how does it look."

I gave the suit a close inspection, and shot her a big smile. While the pattern isn't what I was used to wearing, it did look good. "How did you know blue was my favorite color?"

She smiled broadly. "Oh Artanis, thank you!" She tackle hugged me and nuzzled my face.

"O-ok Rarity, heh, thank you." I pried her off of me. She blushed. "Oh I'm terribly sorry." She gushed.

"It's alright." I dusted myself off and looked at the suit. "This will be a head turner for sure Rares. Another Rarity classic."

She beamed a bright smile at me. "Oh Artanis darling, you're too kind. You truly are a gentlecolt." I knew I was human. Hands, walks on two legs, hello? But I never corrected their verbiage, mainly because I never wanted to have any sort of special treatment.

-To Be Continued in Part Two-