Mikhail enjoyed rest of the Summer Sun Celebration with his parents in the various festivities taking part on that day.
Soon enough, Mikhail returned to his homeland by train and school eventually began. He was a rather smart boy and one of the cheeriest and most optimistic kids as well. Class wasn't too hard for him, especially history (the government approved version anyway) class and social sciences, but he welcomed the weekends with great pleasure.
It was the last week of October and schools in Arstrotzka wouldn't start until the day after tomorrow, giving Mikhail plenty of time to relax. The district of Vescillo had the most state-approved-but-not-controlled entertainment in Moscolt, so he wouldn't be bored at all.
He had finished his homework when he got home and was busy playing a border guard simulation game on his Gamestation when there was a knock on the door.
Mikhail paused the game and rushed for the door. His father had been on a working trip in Burnton, a district in Germaney. He was to arrive in time for the weekend and Mikhail knew for a fact that it was his dad on the other side of the door.
Mikhail was proven right as he unlocked the door and watched his father come in with a big smile on his face. After hugging and greeting his son, Mikhail's father got out an envelope from the Ministry Of Education.
"Go get your bags packed! You don't want to wait until last minute." instructed his father.
"What's going on?" asked Mikhail.
His father raised an eyebrow. Suddenly, his mom walked in the room, still holding her latest issue of the Arstrotzkan Truth.
"Did you really not tell Mikhail yet?" questioned the Arstrotzkan's father.
"I wanted to leave it as a surprise." admitted his mother.
"Mikhail, I have some excellent news for you. While I was at the conference in Burnton, I received information that you, of all Arstrotzkan children, have been selected to take part in a student exchange program with Equestria."
"Me?" gasped Mikhail. He was going to Equestria again!
"Which school will I go to?" asked Mikhail.
"Not a school my boy. Your performance, grades and reputation among the statesmen and educators is so great that you will be exchanging places with none other than Celestia's personal student for a full week."
Mikhail's mouth dropped and his heart skipped a beat. "THE PRINCESS?"
"Yes." nodded his father. "I believe this is the government's attempt to mend relations with Equestria, so we will be exchanging the cream of the crop."
"But, I can't perform magic. Why would I exchange places with Celestia's student of, you know, magic?" asked Mikhail.
"Don't worry, this is about culture and education, not magic." told his father.
"The question is, are you ready?" quizzed his mother.
"Of course I am! I get to see Celestia again for a week!" cheered Mikhail while looking dreamily into the sky. "This is amazing!"
"I know that look." pointed his father. "Someone has a crush on a certain alicorn."
"What? No I don't!" defended Mikhail.
"Now let's get packing. The security troopers will escort you tomorrow morning to the train station." instructed his mother.
"Security officers?" gasped Mikhail.
"The government has to protect its little geniuses." teased Mikhail's mother.
Mikhail packed his belongings and all other materials needed for his trip as ordered by the state. Before he knew it, there was knock on the door from a team of security troopers and a commissar official from the Ministry Of Education named Malankian.
The security troopers stood stoically with their gas masks on. No one could really tell what they were thinking underneath. Commissars meanwhile almost never covered their face.
Malankian looked down at Mikhail expectantly, who had a face of clear excitement and more importantly, determination. He glanced at Mikhail's parents, who were clearly proud of their child. After all, it took a lot of skill to impress the state.
"Are you ready to represent your country and especially your government to the Princess of an entire nation?" asked Malankian with a little grin.
Mikhail smiled wider and started hopping around. He was going to see the Princess again.
"Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!"
"You've been saying 'yes' for the past four hours! Give it a rest already!" begged Malankian.
Mikhail gave an embarrassed laugh and blushed. "Oh, sorry Mr."
Suddenly, the steward on the train gave an announcement. "We have arrived in Canterlot. Local time is Eleven AM."
Mikhail hopped off his seat and stuck close to Malankian. A few security troopers lead the way and stepped out of the train to hold position and guard the entrance while the rest brought out the luggage.
Mikhail could barely contain his excitement and sped out the train like a scurrying rat.
He looked around the Canterlot train station. Far more primitive than what Artstrotzka had to offer, but welcoming nonetheless. It was when he noticed that he was in a VIP platform, evidently reserved for royals, nobles and diplomats.
A familiar voice made his heart skip a beat.
"Well well, nice to see you again Mikhail!"
Mikhail turned his head to the source of the voice. It was none other than Princess Celestia herself, wearing her usual royal apparel and looking as stunning as ever. She was accompanied by an entourage of royal Guards and a chariot within the vicinity with the usual milky white horses.
"Are you ready for an exciting week?" beamed Celestia.
She walked closer to Mikhail, who still stood there speechless. Celestia crouched down to level herself at Mikhail's height, but even then she towered over him effortlessly.
Celestia noticed Mikhail's nervous state. "Oh, silly me. I forgot to say hello."
The next thing anyone knew, Mikhail wrapped his arms around Celestia and gave her a small hug, much to the shock of the Royal Guards but to Celestia's amusement and delight.
Suddenly, a gloved hand ripped Mikhail away from the Princess. Celestia stood up and saw herself looking at a Commissar, who she easily recognized due to his pointed hat and trench coat combination. They were often feared sights due to their tact, ruthlessness, and unpredictable nature. And that was outside of combat.
Commissar Malankian formed a sheepish smile and spoke in a sarcastic tone. "Apologies. In Arstrotzka, we don't teach children royal etiquette."
Celestia rolled her eyes and smiled like it was no problem. "It's quite alright. Mikhail was just a little excited."
Mikhail muttered something in Arstrotzkan before regaining composure. "Oh yeah! Sorry your highness."
Before Celestia could speak, Malankian crouched down and looked Mikhail directly in the eye. Celestia noticed the sly smile over the Commissar's face that unsettled her.
"Now Mikhail," said Malankian in a disturbingly sweet voice. "I hope you are ready to represent our nation."
"Don't worry, I am!" cheered Mikhail.
"Very good. Now do your country and government proud. Show Celestia everything we taught you and remember to be the shining example of what the state can produce." reminded Malankian.
Celestia was slightly uncomfortable at the exchange of words. Malankian sounded far more manipulative than empathetic.
Malankian stood tall, still smiling at Mikhail. He then quickly shot a glance at Celestia that turned into a scowl. He proceeded to head back into the train without a second glance.
The two security troopers guarding the train may have been wearing gas masks, but Celestia could tell they were giving her an 'if anything goes wrong, you'll be sorry' look under their masks. The royal guards were shooting a similar look to the Arstrotzkan security troopers as well.
Despite forming a small frown, Celestia remained her bright and collected self. Her smile returned the moment she looked down at the excited young boy.
"Come on now. The guards have placed your luggage onto the chariot." Celestia offered Mikhail her hand, causing him to blush and almost start sweating from nervousness.
"Are we going to the Castle now?" asked Mikhail.
"Of course!" replied Celestia. "Have you ever ridden on a chariot before?"
"Um, no. I always go by car or metro from one place to the other." answered Mikhail.
"Well, there's a first time for everything." cheered Celestia.
Celestia led Mikhail onto the seat of the chariot while noticing his uneasiness about the horses that were about to pull them.
"Relax Mikhail, they're just horses. Really majestic creatures."
Celestia's assurance caused Mikhail to grin and nod. Soon, the chariot started moving and head straight to Canterlot.
Throughout the ride, Mikhail had barely spoken a word or done anything other than shooting Celestia a quick gaze. He quickly found himself in the middle of attention the moment the chariot left the train station and into the city.
Hundreds of people gathered around the chariot as it made its way to see the Princess and the young boy from an authoritarian nation that held a grudge against the crown.
Cameramen piled up in front of each other in order to get a shot of Celestia and Mikhail. The flashes nearly blinded Mikhail and the thousands of questions being hurled at him and Celestia were unintelligible due to too many people trying to speak over each other.
The attention was just far too much for him and happening way too quickly.
Mikhail sank in his seat, a nervous expression all over his face. Celestia, who was enjoying herself, turned to see Mikhail and his uncomfortable state. While he looked adorable with a pout, she needed to cheer him up.
Celestia extended one of her wings and rubbed it over Mikhail, lightly tickling the young lad."Don't worry Mikhail, these people are here to see you! They know what a great student you are and they're excited to see you represent your country! You should be thankful that you're getting attention like this."
Mikhail didn't respond and tried to look away from the cameras.
"Relax there's no need to be sad at all. How about we just give the cameras a nice happy smile to show how wonderful and meaningful this entire thing is?" encouraged Celestia.
Mikhail looked at Celestia's bright and warm expression and nodded. He turned to the reporters and gave them a confident wave as his picture was taken. Celestia did the same and placed her arm on Mikhail's shoulder, which led to some photos accidentally recording Mikhail's blush.
Soon enough, the chariot reached the castle. Mikhail was supposed to gt off, but he stayed in place.
Celestia chuckled and stroked Mikhail's hair. "You are so cute when you look so insecure." This statement prompted a smile from Mikhail.
"Sorry Princess, it's just that you're an Alicorn Monarch and I'm just an Arstrotzkan."
"Don't be silly! If you were just a regular Arstrotzkan, they wouldn't have sent you to meet me!" cheered Celestia.
"Alright. I hope I can keep you impressed with what I know. I mean, you're country has magic and-"
"Relax, I'm sure you'll do more than impress me." winked Celestia.
Mikhail got off the carriage and nearly tripped, but was helped by Celestia who giggled at his little misfortune. He went off to go get his bags, only to see the royal guards approach him and offer take the bags from his hands.
"While you're here, my guards will be doing all the heavy lifting for you." assured Celestia. "You just focus on having fun and representing your country."
"Alright then, but I'm not used to having people wait on me." said Mikhail.
"I take it that your country doesn't have any sort of service." guessed Celestia.
"Uh, we have civil servants, but they're too expensive and they mainly work for the state." told Mikhail. He was still staring at the guards.
"Impressed by our guards?" teased Celestia.
"They just look so....different." muttered Mikhail.
"By that, do you mean that they look less equipped? Or because they have wings growing out of their-"
"It's not that. They look appear far less intimidating compared to the ones back home. Maybe because they aren't wearing scary armor or masks." gulped Mikhail. "And there are much less guards in Equestria compared to their abundance in Arstrotzka."
"Hm, you have quite an impressive vocabulary for someone your age." complimented Celestia. "But surely looking intimidating isn't the only things you notice from your country's servicemen. There's bound to be-"
"Actually, looking freighting is one of the main goals of being a security trooper in Arstrotzka." grinned Mikhail. "The more fearsome and aggressive a soldier looks, the more likely citizens aren't going to act up and order will be kept."
Celestia's eyes widened. "That's an interesting moral. How about we go inside? I have some questions for you."
Mikhail jumped in excitement. Celestia offered Mikhail her hand and he hesitantly took it.
While walking to the castle, Celestia noticed Mikhail's dumb struck expression, blushing cheeks and sweaty forehead.
"Simply adorable." whispered Celestia to herself.
Soon, they were walking inside the castle. Mikhail hadn't said a word, probably because he couldn't get over the shock over holding Celestia's hand. Royal guards and servants bowed upon seeing Celestia, a gesture that was alien to Mikhail unless it appeared in Arstrotzkan propaganda as a sigh of degenerate bourgeois elitism and backwardness.
The civilians in the castle always kept their focus on Mikhail the moment he would make himself apparent. At first, it was easy to confuse him for an Earth Person, but the lack of innate magic could have been felt by any Equestrian, who would later notice his dull hair and eye colors.
Mikhail and Celestia made it to the famous hall where the the most significant of events in the history of Equestria were documented as stained glass paintings.
"Do you like what you see?" asked Celestia.
Mikhail let go of Celestia's hand and took a look around. "Oh my gosh! I've read so many stories about you. And all these paintings are from a different tale."
Celestia raised an eyebrow. From the little information she knew about Arstrotzka, she didn't think they would allow children to get their hands on anything that glorified her. "So, your school lets you read books about my history and various misadventures?"
"Of course! They're amazing!" squealed Mikhail. He walked up to Celestia. "And now, I finally get to see the woman who's been a hero for more than a thousand years!"
"Aren't you the charmer." cooed Celestia, pretending to be flirty.
Mikhail looked at each of the glass stains. He recognized the first one depicting the founding of Equestria which was recently covered in history class followed by paintings of Celestia and her sister vanishing a wicked and maniacal man with yellow eyes and defeating a dictator with a red cloak as he trapped a city made of Crystal.
Finally, a portrait caught his eye, one that depicted his favorite story.
"Wow! That's the vanishing of NightMare Moon! The artwork looks just as epic as the story." awed Mikhail.
He failed to notice Celestia cringe slightly. Even after a near thousand years, it was still a sensitive story for her. She still worried about the fate of her poor sister.
"Is it true?" asked Mikhail.
Celestia was caught off guard. "I'm sorry, what?"
Mikhail looked at Celestia with wide and curious eyes. "Is it true that your sister will return as NightMare Moon on the thousandth Summer Sun Celebration?"
"Come now Mikhail, that's just a fable." assured Celestia.
"That doesn't make any sense." frowned Mikhail.
"I beg your pardon?"
"Why are all the stories I've read about you true except for this one?" panned Mikhail.
Celestia formed a sheepish grin, Mikhail was getting suspicious.
"It just doesn't add up. Luna isn't present in any history records after the time the banishment of NightMare Moon would have taken place, but the story of NightMare Moon is apparently a myth."
Celestia normally dodged this question since Equestrians almost never questioned her. But Mikhail was no Equestrian.
"Every time we get to this part, the teachers and every other adult always mention that you're hiding something from the world that could be really important. I know everyone keeps secrets, but they say you always avoid this question along with many others."
Celestia could not believe a child was doing something not even the most fierce of royals or intellectuals could do.
Mikhail crossed his arms. "So what's the deal? Where did Princess Luna go? Did she just die and everyone made up a story about it? Because it isn't very nice to call someone evil when they just died."
"NO!" screamed Celestia, almost going into the Royal Canterlot Voice.
Mikhail fell down on his back with a startled expression.
Celestia gasped. "Oh no! I'm so sorry." She picked up Mikhail and hugged him close, his face dangerously close to certain parts of her chest.
"It's my fault! I shouldn't have been so nosy." cried Mikhail.
Celestia let him go. "You were curious. That was no reason for me to get mad at you."
"It's alright." assured Mikhail. He could believe that an incredibly powerful Alicorn was apologizing to him of all people.
Thankfully, Mikhail didn't continue asking questions about NightMare Moon. Rather, he took a look at the other works of art with his usual curiosity.
"Do you learn any of these events in class?" inquired Celestia.
"Of course!" cheered Mikhail. "I've learned all about old Equestria's history since our countries used to be one before the revolution led by Vladimane."
"I trust that you're one of the best?" complimented Celestia.
"I don't like to brag and my country doesn't approve of immodesty, but...yeah." gloated Mikhail. He looked at the paintings once more and with a light squeak, faced Celestia.
"How come there isn't anything about the Eastern revolution?"
Celestia's heart sank. "Have you learned about your people's revolution?"
"Nope." Mikhail formed some confused eyes. "What happened? Why did the East revolt? The teachers tell me that it's too complex for someone my age to know."
"I'm afraid so." sighed Celestia. "You'll learn soon enough." Celestia knew that the Equestrians always treated E-Day and the subsequent events as a day of darkness and cruelty initiated by their eastern neighbors. No one celebrated the day.
A part of Celestia feared that once Mikhail learned of the revolution from Arstrotza's perspective, he would form an eternal grudge against her like the rest of his people. She hoped that wouldn't be the case.
She tried to change the subject. "So Mikhail, would you like to get a snack and tell me about all the wonderful things you know?"
"Would I?" cheered Mikhail.
A few moments later, Mikhail and the Princess found themselves sitting on a table, facing each other as butlers and maids poured the two cups of tea and unloaded a tray of confectioneries.
Celestia took a sip of her tea and placed it on the table. Mikhail meanwhile, was still trying to get it to taste right.
"Hold it Mikhail. You don't want to put in too much sugar, it isn't very healthy for you considering we already have some lovely treats to enjoy." pointed Celestia.
Mikhail formed an adorable pouty face and sighed in defeat. He took a sip of his tea followed by a bite from his biscuits. The moment he finished, the waiters picked up the plates and took them away.
"I hope being waited on isn't too much of a new experience." giggled Celestia.
"Oh not really. Arstrotzka has its domestic workers." replied Mikhail. "But the other people who do these small jobs are only part time because we're forced to do some menial labor on occasion. Or they're students doing their required community service." He shrugged and continued to sip his tea.
Celestia rested her elbows on the table and nested her head on her palms. "So Mikhail, how about you tell me about your self? What do you enjoy the most about Arstrotzka?"
"Oh that's easy! I definitely love all the TV shows and games that come out. My mama doesn't let me watch the big boy stuff, but there never really is a second when I'm not entertained. A lot of times, I go to the government recreation center and play arcade games with my friends."
"You don't always waste time behind a screen right?" checked Celestia. "Spending time outside is important!"
"Well duh!" beamed Mikhail. "The state forces you to keep a healthy body for the good of Arstrotzka so I'm always out biking in the allowed areas."
"Allowed areas?" muttered Celestia.
"You can't just go everywhere." said Mikhail in a snarky voice. "Some parts are sealed off like nature reserves and areas for public transport. You can't go to these areas or else the guards will get angry at you."
"That's interesting." said Celestia with a confused expression. "Speaking of being outside, I know that the weather is rather cold where you live. Is it a problem at times?"
"Of course not!" cheered Mikhail. "In Winter we're usually inside heated buildings or transport. The government also makes sure we're secure with enough warmth, electricity and food when we need to stay in."
"Sounds like the state plays a big role in your day to day life." checked Celestia.
"Sure it does!" remarked Mikhail. "We Arstrotzkans feel that without a strong state that is by the people and for the people, true progress can never be made."
"What would you say your 'omnipresent'' government does best?" questioned Celestia.
Mikhail lost himself in thought. "Maybe it's the way it keeps order. No villain can get away from truth and justice!"
"Come again?" muttered Celestia.
"The state does a good job catching bad guys!" cheered Mikhail. "The government can easily track down someone who is plotting against the people and the state no matter what."
Celestia formed an uncanny smile and spoke in a gritty voice. "No matter what huh?"
"Yeah! And then they send a team of soldiers to bust down the doors and......" Mikhail was lost in thought. "I don't know what happens after that. I saw a team of soldiers raid a building once, but my mom turned me around."
Celestoa was about to say something until Mikhail spoke again.
"Actually, I think what our state does best is the way it provides us services." guessed Mikhail. "We have healthcare for all, affordable homes and care for the elderly and disabled. The best part is that we're all forced to make a contribution to keep them running, so no one gets left behind."
"Is school good?" asked Celestia.
"We do have a hundred percent literacy rate because your forced to go to school and graduate college." replied Mikhail. Also all adults have to pay an income tax that goes to funding for schools even if they don't have kids. I'm not an adult yet so I don't have to pay anything yet!"
Celestia laughed. Here was a comfortable topic. "What do you like to study in school?"
"I definitely like learning about history and how the government works." answered Mikhail.
"My, that last part sounds a little too advanced for someone your age," teased Celestia. "But I know for sure it should be no trouble for you at all."
"Well, I read the simple version for kids anyway." shrugged Mikhail.
"Considering your country chose you for this exchange, I take it that you are quite the exemplary student." complimented Celestia.
"If you're the best, they call you a junior hero of Arstrtozka. I really hope I can get that title." told Mikhail.
"It should be no trouble for someone like you." winked Celestia.
"Thanks." blushed Mikhail. "All you have to do is just get good grades, be a good role model and be involved. Although it's not like anyone has a choice on the last part because you're forced to make a contribution to society anyway."
Celestia took a small breath before speaking. "Mikhail, you're using the word forced a lot."
"A saying of our country is that those who don't believe in force might as well not believe in gravity." said Mikhail. "If we want the best, we have to be active and determined."
"Right, and what were to happen if someone were to dissent just a little bit?" inquired Celestia.
"Like how?" gulped Mikhail.
"Let's say they didn't pay their tax or crossed into a nature reserve?" questioned Celestia.
"You can't do that!" gasped Mikhail. "If you do, the government will get very angry."
"Could you elaborate on 'being angry'?" requested Celestia.
"I never see what happens to a criminal because my parents always turn me away, but I remember there was this one man who was arguing with a commissar about some documents, and then a few security troopers came and took him away." recounted Mikhail.
Celestia took a deep breath. "Where do they take criminals to?"
"I don't know. In Arstrotzka, all criminals are never seen again unless it was just a small offense. And those small time criminals never go against the country again." stated Mikhail. "In Arstrotzka, it's all about supporting a strong society. If you don't want to contribute to it, yo're going to bring everyone down. That's how it works right?"
Celestia didn't answer the question. "You would never put yourself in such a position."
"Of course not! How can I be a politician if I disobey all the laws?" defended Mikhail.
"You wish to be a politician when your grow up?" checked Celestia.
"Yeah! I have a lot of cool ideas for my country and I really wand to make a difference for this world. So why not have a job where making change is easy?" perked up Mikhail.
"You don't have to be a politician to make change Mikhail. You can bring about great contributions in the smallest things you do every day." said Celestia warmly.
"That's easy for you to say. Whatever you want, happens." frowned Mikhail.
Celestia's eyes shot open. "What? I can't control everything. Equestria would be nothing without the changes brought upon by every individual that lives in it. I'm not responsible for every single that happens here."
"Oh. I remember my grandfather telling me that this country bends to your every whim." replied Mikhail.
Celesita couldn't decide what facial expression she wanted to make. "Mikhail, what kind of changes do you want to make if you were to become a commissar of any sorts."
"I definitely want to have a role as a foreign relations officer." pondered Mikhail. "You see, Arstrotzka has a really great gift with progress, so why not share it?"
Celestia didn't respond immediately, but rather let Mikhail continue with interest.
"Whenever I hear adults talking about Equestria in my hometown, it's always something mean and nasty. They don't want to help out other countries unless Arstrotzka can get something from it because they think Equestria is worthless. The way I see it, Equestria is just awesome! I think it would benefit both our countries if we harnessed the power friendship and find ways to get along and use our strengths to make ourselves even better."
"That's wonderful Mikhail." smiled Celestia. "I'm sure you could-"
"Your Majesty!"
Suddenly, another person entered the room. He was clearly a pegasus as indicated by his wings and had a set of well trimmed violet hair. He wore a suit that had a regal look even though he didn't appear to belong to the financial elite.
Celestia wasn't expecting one of her bureaucrats. "Paper Pusher, is there something wrong?"
Paper Pusher took a small glance at the confused Mikhail and shook his head. He proceeded to focus his attention on the Princess. "I'm afraid you're going to be needed for a court session."
"What? I reserved this day so I could specifically spend time with Mikhail here." She shot Mikhail a grin who chuckled in return.
"I'm sorry, but it's an emergency. Noting too severe though." apologized Paper Pusher.
Celestia let out a sigh of disappointment. She rose from her chair and faced Mikhail. "Mikhail, I don't know-"
"It's alright your highness! I have some homework to catch up on. You can do your Princess stuff." assured Mikhail.
"Thank you." nodded Celestia. "I promise I won't be gone for too long."
It was the afternoon and Mikhail had a good look at the view of Canterlot from where he was sitting. His guest room was far more luxurious than his bed room in Arstrotzka,.
Yet, he still preferred the simple modern and utilitarian look of his own room.
Mikhail was busy doing some work on his laptop that the government sent him to complete while he was gone so that he wouldn't fall behind. He decided to get it done early seeing that he had nothing else to do at this point.
A small team of servants and maids had been assigned to him, but given the nature of where he was from, his inner socialist made him politely decline the offer, but they and the Princesses insisted. They had set up his clothes and occasionally asked if he wanted a snack, as if he was some sort of grown up dignitary.
Come to think of it, everything in his room seemed far more suited for an adult guest of an esteemed background. It was as if Equestria was taking extra measures not to make him mad. He gave it a moments thought while working.
Because of his pondering, he failed to notice a young girl walk in.
"Hi! What are you doing?"
Mikhail yelped and spun around.
"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to scare you!" gasped a young girl.
"It's fine! I swear!" said Mikhail as he regained control.
He found himself looking a girl he could describe as cute. She had long pink hair with blond stripes and purple eyes. She wore a simple yet expensive looking pink dress for minors with holes to accommodate her wings. What also caught Mikhail's attention was the clear magical aura being emitted from her. She was an Alicorn.
"Hi! I'm Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, but you can just call me Cadance!" She extended her left hand.
"Oh my gosh! You're the other Princess! You're Celestia's niece!" realized Mikhail. He glanced at Cadance's hand and after a brief moment of hesitation, shook it.
"I'm Mikhail Kirov! Nice to meet you!"
"Mickey?"
"No, Mikhail, but you can call me Mickey." smirked Mikhail.
Cadance's eyes widened. Bland hair and eye colors, no sign or Earth People strength, wings or magic and an Arstrotzkan accent. "So you're the one who traded places with Sunset Shimmer!"
"That's right. The government selected me of all kids!" bragged Mikhail.
"That's so cool! I heard your country's government is super tough and stern. I didn't think they were impressed by anything!" said Cadance.
"Well, I think that's a little too mean. I'm sure there are plenty of good people running the state." replied Mikhail.
"I guess." shrugged Cadance. She looked from side to side to make sure no one was looking and pulled Mikhail into a whisper. "I heard you had a run in with Blueblood the first time you met my aunt."
"That's right! He tried to steal my autograph book." nodded Mikhail.
"I'm really sorry that you had to meet him." apologized Cadance.
"Ah, it was no problem." insisted Mikhail. "It was only for a while and Princess Celestia came into help."
"Just try to imagine living with him." chuckled Cadance. "Good thing he won't be showing his face in the castle until you leave."
"I'm guessing he wasn't to fond of staying after learning how was coming to visit." smirked Mikhail. "Anyway, I can't imagine having to be Blueblood's cousin."
"You have no idea how terrible it can be having to have Blueblood and Sunset around you all the time." sighed Cadance.
There was venom in Cadance's voice. "Sunset Shimmer is really selfish and only cares about her goals. She also likes making people feel alone and breaking up their friendships just so she can have no one standing against her."
"She's horrible! Why is she Celestia's student?" frowned Mikhail.
Cadance rolled her eyes. "Well, Sunset Shimmer is really good with magic so Celestia is trying to train her so that she can learn the error of her ways and reform to use her magic to help other Equestrians rather than herself."
"Is it working?"
"Nope."
"I don't get it! Celestia is generous, kind and loving. How does she end up with people like Sunset and Blueblood?" shook Mikhail.
"I ask that question every day!" said Cadance slowly.
"Seriously, how can the beautiful on the inside and outside Princess Celestia stand such people? She has the amazing patience of a mental health doctor." wondered Mikhail.
Cadance noticed Mikhail's rather infatuating comment about something and how his voice trailed off, causing her to smirk. She wondered if she could get Mikhail to reveal it himself.
"So, what were you working on before I showed up?" asked Cadance.
"Oh, just homework on my laptop." answered Mikhail as if it was nothing important.
"Your laptop?" frowned Cadance. She glanced to the side and saw the device. Mikhail had some sort of word processing app open with lines of text in Artstrotzkan. Needless to say, she was impressed.
"Wow! I've heard about these things. You can write other people letters right without papers and quills right?"
"That's just the least of it! You can also play games, listen to music, watch movies and go on the internet read anything you want." told Mikhail.
"I've seen a bunch of these in special stores, but I don't think anyone here really has one. Everyone just prefers to do things by hand or by magic." said Cadance. "Also, they're really expensive!"
"Each to his own." shrugged Mikhail. "And what do you mean they're expensive? Every family has one. In fact, we're forced to have one, but my papa won't tell me why."
"Well, here in Equestria, we can barely afford any electronics your country sends because they're expensive to trade. It's as if your country doesn't want others to have anything." guessed Cadance, reminded of a conversation she had with Celestia at the mall.
Mikhail was about to answer, until he accidentally opened a document that made his heart skip a beat.
He had accidentally opened a coloring program that was displaying his latest creation. A crudely drawn heart with a letter C right in the middle entirely engulfed by a yellow sun.
Cadance's mouth dropped and she began to laugh. "I knew it!"
Mikhail tried to defend himself. "No! It's not what you think. I mean, we just met right?"
"You totally have a crush on Princess Celestia!" squealed Cadance.
"Um...I...uh...what is it with everyone assuming this?" gulped Mikhail while trying to feign innocence.
"I'm the Princess of love, you can't hide it from me Mickey!" teased Cadance.
Mikhail didn't give in yet. "First it was Shining Armor, then my parents and-"
Cadance gasped. "Oh my gosh! You know Shining Armor."
Calming down, Mikhail nodded. "Yeah, I met him at the Summer Sun Celebration the first time I came here. We hung out."
"Really?" said Cadance with her eyes widened.
"Yeah. He told me that you went to the same school together." continued Mikhail.
"What else did he say about me?" perked up Cadance.
"Why do you....." Mikhail formed an evil smile. "Oh, I see. You like Shining Armor."
Cadance blushed and her wings shot open. "I'll keep your secret if you keep mine."
"Deal." nodded Mikhail.
Celestia's voice interrupted two children. "I see you two have met."
The startled children looked behind them to see Celestia standing at the doorway, grinning with her arms crossed and wings folded neetly behind her back.
"Hi auntie." whimpered Cadance. "Were you listening in on us?"
"I don't always do that Cadance." joked Cadance. "I didn't hear a thing and besides, what kind of person would I be if I just waltzed into your private conversations like that?"
"Oh, you would be like a security trooper Commissar." smiled the naive Mikhail.
Celestia didn't want that statement to kill the mood. "Cadance dear, do you think that the day is still young enough to show Mikhail a proper tour around Canterlot?"
"Totally!" cheered Cadance. She grabbed Mikhail's arm. "I know a great place where we can read some awesome books while having some hot chocolate."
"But I've already been in Canterlot. There's no need to show me a tour." frowned Mikhail.
"True, but you haven't had the chance to see it without tourists everywhere have you?" quizzed Celestia.
"I guess not." Mikhail glanced at his homework that was nearly done and turned to face Celestia again. "Alright! We can go out!"
"Splendid!" cheered Celestia. She clapped her hands together. "I'll go put on some more casual attire. Cadance, I think you should do the same."
"What about me Princess?" asked Mikhail.
Celestia bent down and pinched Mikhail's cheeks lightly. "I think you're cute just the way you are."
The Princess head out the door for her changing room while Mikhail stood with a dreamy look on his face.
"She called cute!" he squealed.
Cadance rolled her eyes. "Lover boy."
The sun had began to set as per Celestia's will, painting the sky with an orange tint. This signaled the end of the work day and allowed people to enjoy their leisure time.
Celestia had changed her attire to a white sweater with blue jeans and sneakers, but her attempt to blend in was pitiful. She stood out in the crowd with her impressive height, regal glow and sparkling flowing hair. The fact that she kept her crown on was also blatantly indicative of her royalty.
Thankfully, the media hadn't harassed Celesita and the children, but every once in a while there was a number of paparazzi that swarmed the trio (especially Mikhail) for pictures. A few of them attempted to ask Mikhail about Arstrotzka, but Celestia managed to turn away the question before Mikhail obliviously blurted about his nation's totalitarianism.
A pair of royal guards was eventually called upon to guide the Princesses and the Arstrotzkan, effectively keeping away unwanted crowds, but drawing more stares.
Mikhail stuck close to Celestia, still slightly nervous about all the attention he was getting, but not to the point of before.
"Here we are Mickey!" pointed Cadance. "This is one of my favorite places to go to."
Mikhail was expecting something fancy like those ornate steak restaurants his parents took him to on formal occasions, but it was just a simple, but very welcoming doughnut shop.
Cadance grabbed Mikhail's hand and the two children sped in.
The shop was pretty normal compared to the ones in Arstrotzka, but this one certainly paid a lot more attention to aesthetics and atmosphere compared to the ones in his nation.
"What do you think?" asked Cadance.
"It's cool and all, but I thought you were gonna take me to some place more.....artsy or regal with more servants lying around." chuckled Mikhail.
"I get it! You think I'm some sheltered girl who's spoiled by a thousand maids and butlers don't you?" accused Cadance.
"What? No! I just thought that you'd be more used to the higher things in life." defended Mikhail.
Cadance laughed. "Relax, I'm kidding. People always ask me this, but I still like to do normal things because they're so much fun. Besides, I don't want to put too much pressure on you. Those royal galas are really stressful."
Celesita proceeded to make herself apparent in the shop. She bent down to look at the kids. "Just go select anything you want to eat, but not enough to spoil your dinner okay?"
The two kids nodded and headed for the counter. A worker finally appeared from the back door upon hearing customers. He was clearly in his teens and had brown hair with freckles. No one could see it, but he had a doughnut cutie mark on his arm.
"My name is Doughnut Joe, welcome to-Ah!"
Suddenly, Doughnut Joe realized who had come to his store. It was none other than the two Princesses themselves. Celestia had her arms crossed and waved at him lightly while Cadance stood eagerly at the counter with Mikhail.
"Oh my Celestia! The Princesses? Here!" he yelled to himself. The employee quickly dashed to the bathroom to make himself look more presentable and finally came back out.
Celestia rolled her eyes, but couldn't help but find the worker's act endearing.
"I take it that you're new?" asked Celestia.
Doughnut Joe took a while to respond. His eyes widened as he spoke. "Um, yeah! I just started working here."
"Well Cadance comes here every week, so you'll get used to seeing her and me for a while." told Celestia encouragingly.
"Oh boy." gulped Joe. He looked "So, what can I get for you, your highness?"
"I'll just take a scone." told Celestia.
"I want a glazed!" said Cadance.
"Right. Just give me a moment your majesties.' squealed Joe.
"Aren't you forgetting someone?" quizzed Celestia.
Doughnut Joe was confused until he glanced at the cheery Mikhail. He cursed at himself mentally for making a mistake.
"My bad. What can I get for your friend here?"
"Just a strawberry doughnut with sprinkles please." answered Mikhail. He reached in his pocket to get out the Equestrian bits that his parents had given him, only to be stopped by Celestia.
"Relax, it's on me." assured Celestia.
The two Princesses got a table while Mikhail stood in front of the counter curiously. Joe couldn't help but feel something peculiar about him.
"I take it your not from here Mr....."
"Mikhail Kirov."
"Right. So you're from Arstrotzka correct?" checked the teenage Joe.
"Yup!" exclaimed Mikhail with his hands behind back.
"Do they have good doughnuts where you're from?" joked Joe.
"Oh of course! But the stores aren't like this." shook Mikhail.
Joe frowned. "What do you mean? They both sell the good old doughnut!"
"Yeah, but I think here some person actually runs the store privately. In Arstrotzka, all prices and the rules of what goes on in the store are controlled by the state and labor commissars." told Mikhail.
"You're pretty smart." complimented Joe. "Does this mean that my store would be run by some government guy rather than my boss?"
"Not entirely. Large industries are controlled by worker consensus, but the state still regulates to them to stay on task. Small shops like these are individually owned, but you still have to do everything the government tells you if they step in." Mikhail wasn't a show off, but he loved how much he knew about politics. business and the way his country worked at such a young age.
Joe raised an eyebrow. "What happens if a guy running the small business refused?"
"Oh, the store is closed down and the one deemed responsible for the failure goes somewhere." answered Mikhail.
Joe's eyes widened. "Wait, where do they go?"
"I don't know." shrugged Mikhail. "I once saw some police bust into a big furniture store. The next day, the store was closed and the person in charge of it wasn't around anymore even though I used to see him almost every week."
Joe's mouth dropped. "Okay then, here are your doughnuts. Don't want to keep a lady waiting."
Mikhail gleefully took the tray with the doughnuts on them and headed to the Princesses who were in the middle of a small conversation. Joe meanwhile was going to be having nightmares.
The night time came, signaled by Celestia raising the moon. She had helped Cadance get ready for school tomorrow and tucked her away to bed.
She was now wearing a pale night gown and was about to call it in for the night after a few more hours of late night work. After all,even Alicorns needed their sleep. First however, she was going to check on Mikhail.
It was almost ten thirty at night, so there was no doubt that Mikhail was going to be asleep. The Commissars informed her that jet lag wasn't going to be a problem for him.
She slowly opened the door and took a light step inside.
"Mikhail? You're still awake!"
Mikhail still was in his pajamas and snuggled in his bed. He was on his laptop typing something before Celestia interrupted him.
"You need to go to sleep." frowned Celestia. "We have many plans tomorrow as per the program."
"I'm so sorry Princess!" gulped Mikhail while closing his laptop. "I was about to go to sleep, but I just needed to send a message to my government first. That's all."
Celestia sat down on Mikhail's bed. "It's alright. May I ask what you're sending?"
"The government wants to know the things we talked about today. What you asked me, what I asked you, all that." answered Mikhail. He nearly held back a tear. "I was supposed to send it to them earlier, but I forgot and now they're probably mad that I'm late."
The next thing he knew, Celestia wrapped her arms around Mikhail's neck and hugged him tight, not realizing how much of her assets were almost squished on Mikhail's face. Needless to say, the night gown had a good view of certain things.
She let Mikahil go and looked him in the eye. "Don't you worry about a thing. If there's a problem with you being late, I'll take the blame. Now go get some sleep."
Celestia offered to take Mikhail's laptop off him and on his desk. She was about to head out until Mikhail's voice called out.
"Excuse me Princess, could you hand me-"
Celesita caught Mikhail's eye and looked at a plush chibi doll of an Arstrotzkan Commissar, no different in material from the plush pony dolls that Cadance slept with. She would have called it out as creepy, but it was just too adorable.
"Goodnight Mickey." joked Celestia. She headed outside and closed the door.
Once she was outside, she shook her head and laughed. "Such a cute boy."
"Excuse me, your majesty." muttered a familiar voice.
Celestia turned to he side and faced Razor Sharp, current Captain of the Royal Guard, son of wealthy Pegasus barons and baronesses, and due to be married to a Unicorn lady of high esteem.
The Captain did a bow and then saluted with his right arm. "I apologize for interrupting you, my Princess. Especially considering your rather light apparel."
"Come now, it's totally fine." giggled Celestia. "I was just about to head to my office, is there anything you need."
"It's not I. It's more or less the elite of the nation." sighed Sharp.
"I knew Mikhail's presence would bring some certain concerns." muttered Celestia.
"Overall, what do you think?" asked Sharp. "I understand if you wish not to answer."
"Why wouldn't I? Mikhail is kind, smart and utterly adorable." laughed Celestia. "He's become good friends with Cadance in only a few hours."
"No, what do you think of his country? His people." panned Sharp.
"From what Mikhail tells me, Arstrotzka really is quite the technological utopia of our world. They have inventions that are well capable of rivaling even the most potent of magic." said Celestia.
"I...noticed the emphasis on technological." blurted Sharp.
"Don't get me wrong, Arstrotzka seems to have an extremely high standard of living. Citizens contribute to the best of their abilities and get what they need. Even more based on the vigor of their contribution." trailed Celestia. "But I'm afraid the nation's authoritarianism is quite apparent in the everyday lives of its citizens."
"Well, the Arstrotzkan government can't exactly declare war on us, so they have to take their anger out on someone." spat Sharp.
"I really feel that there are good people in Arstrotzka. People like Mikhail, but the progress and egalitarianism that the nation makes must be sustained through brute force. They're not as lucky to be able to prosper under the system of harmony like we are." remarked Celestia.
"What does Mikhail think?" questioned Sharp.
"He really doesn't seem to be bothered by the brutality of his state." replied Celesita sadly.
"Figures, his country is engineering him to become a good little dog." gritted Sharp.
"Don't say that." scowled Celestia. "The people of Arstrotzka really do seem to value individuality and ingenuity. In fact, they criticize us for being the blind adherents. Otherwise, there would be no crime or need for force in the first place."
Sharp formed a confused expression.
"Come now, Arstrotzka is advanced enough to engineer its people into being no better than robots. Raising someone to be blindly obedient is the least they could do. It just seems that people there truly believe that force is needed to maintain order. To Mikhail, having police and Commissars assault the people may be natural because it keeps society proposerus. Besides, he's too young to truly grasp the situation anyway."
"Oh to be young, and not realize the violations of your country." sang Sharp.
"Mikhail said that he wants to join the government when he grows up. Maybe he'll make a change one day." giggled Celestia.
"I suppose." smirked Sharp. "Well, I'll be seeing you, young Highness."
"Likewise Captain."
Much to everyone's chagrin, the week just to had to end. Soon, Mikhail was due to return to Arstrotzka as the exchange program concluded.
Celestia and Candace personally accompanied Mikhail to the train station to see him off after helping him pack his belongings.
The group awaited the Arstrotzkan train, which was due to arrive any moment now. Mikhail was really upset at having to leave, but he was home sick and missed his family and friends.
Celestia noticed Mikhail's clearly visible disappointment and found it best to comfort him. "Don't want to go?"
Mikhail sighed. "I'm just upset that I have to say good-bye." He looked up at Celestia with a warm expression. "I've had a lot of fun. Equestria is a really nice place."
"Maybe one day you can visit Equestria again?" suggested Celestia.
"Of course, if the state lets me!" replied Mikhail.
Celestia would have lost her smile had she not seen the precious sight of Mikhail giving a hug to Cadance like brother and sister.
"Bye Mickey." teased Cadance. "I'll miss you."
"Same. Good luck with Blueblood." chuckled Mikhail.
"You'll keep in touch right?" asked Cadance.
"Of course. Do you have an e-mail address?" replied Mikhail.
"A what?"
"Never mind, I'll just send you a letter."
"Cool! My aunt will make sure that your letters get through." smiled Cadance.
Soon, there was the sound of an incoming train. Travelling at an impressive speed, the Arstrotzkan train stopped in front of the onlookers to gaze at.
The train just screamed technological superiority as it boasted a sleek shape with a skilled grey and red paint job. Unlike the trains of other nations, the Arstrotzkan train had surpassed steam power in favor of more advanced forms. Achieved without magic of course.
"Well, I guess this is it." sighed Cadance.
Mikhail shot Cadance a smile and nod and made his way to the locomotive.
"Here, let me get your luggage for you." insisted Celestia. With a whip of her magic, Mikhail's suitcase was engulfed by a golden aura as the telekinesis started to drag it forward.
The doors of the Arstrotzkan train shot open. From its contents, two armed Arstrotzkan soldiers stepped out and stared in the distance with their blank expressions.
In the heart of the moment, a pompous looking girl with arrogant smile around Mikhail's age stepped out of the train. She was a unicorn that had fiery red hair with yellow streaks.
Without even bothering to shoot Mikhail a look, she made her way to the exit where she stood beside Cadance, who didn't look too pleased at all.
Mikhail realized that she was Sunset Shimmer, the student he traded places with.
Celestia meanwhile noticed the way the Arstrotzkan soldiers were glancing at Sunset Shimmer. Even an Alicorn princess couldn't tell what was going on under an Arstrotzkan soldier's gas mask most of the time, but she could tell the expressions were most likely hasty.
The next thing the Princess knew, Commissar Dimitri from the Ministry Of Admissions was there to greet Mikhail. His face was not pleasant at all.
Celestia managed to keep her warm and stoic personality. "Good day Commissar."
There was no response from Dimitri other than a glare and light growl.
'Please don't tell me you did something that jeopardized our chances at peace Sunset.' thought Celestia.
"Was Sunset Shimmer any trouble in Arstrotzka? I hardly received any letters." politely inquired Celestia.
For a while there was no response from the Commissar, but when he spoke, his voice was full of condemnation.
"I don't know what you've been teaching Sunset, but let's just say we had to use pulse grenades to subdue her. She's very lucky that the shocks didn't injure her." growled Dimitri.
Celestia knew that Sunset Shimmer could be a real pain to control, not to mention arrogant, but she didn't think it was to the point where she needed to have her magic temporarily drained from her. Was it that bad?
"Consider her the first child banned in Arstrotzka." added Dimitri.
The Princess kept her calm expression and nodded. "So, when can my country expect another meeting or affair with yours?"
Commissar Dimitri didn't answer. Rather he turned to Mikhail, who had been oblivious to do brief exchange of words.
"Are you ready to return Mikhail?" questioned Dimitri with a far more friendly and almost playful tone.
Mikhail perked up and smiled. "Of course, I miss my papa and mama."
"I'm sure they miss you too." Dimitri turned around and entered the train, followed by the two security troopers.
Mikhail was about to enter the train, only to be briefly stopped by Celestia.
"Wait, don't I get a little kiss?" teased Celestia.
Before Mikhail could react, Celestia bent down and gave him a little hug followed by a quick kiss on the forehead.
While it was a brief peck, it felt like an eternity of happiness to Mikhail. He suddenly felt dizzy with the greatest feeling ever, mumbling random gibberish in Arstrotzkan all the while.
Celestia chuckled. "You're a kind and bright boy Mikhail, don't ever change."
The young boy was still too awestruck to say anything tangible, but he nodded and made a silent promise nonetheless.
Mikhail hurried into the train and allowed a soldier to take care of his baggage. He took a window seat next to Dimitri, who was extremely eager to get out of the feudal nation and back to his.
As the train started to leave, Mikhail took one last look at Princess Celestia with Cadance at her side and waved. The two Princesses waved back.
Sitting down, Mikhail reflected on the time he just had. He got to spend a full week with the woman of his dreams and even got a small kiss from her. He also made a friend who happened to be another Princess as well.
Yup, it had been the greatest week of his life.
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"Kirov?"
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.
"President Kirov?"
.
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"President Mikhail Kirov!"
"I'm awake!" called out an alarmed voice.
Awoken from his flashback, the President of Arstrotzka took a look at his surroundings. Sure enough, he was in his VTOL transport ship, surrounded by gas masked Arstrotzkan soldiers clutching their rifles. Kirov wondered if they had fallen asleep like he did.
"We'll be landing in Equestria in five minutes." said a voice that belonged to veteran Commissar of the Ministry Of Information, M. Vonel. Like the other occupants on the VTOL, he was wearing a gas mask that concealed his face and prized mustache.
"Very good." nodded President Kirov. He turned to his other side to face two other Commissars, one by the name of Sergiu Volda and the other that went by the title of 'The Inspector'.
"Inspector! Volda!" barked Kirov. "I trust you two are prepared for our mission?"
The two other Commissars nodded.
"Very good. About time our nation has this little chat with Equestria." hissed the President through his gas mask.
Kirov reached for his Commissar cap that barred the Arstrotzkan logo, and slapped it on.
Author's Note
A lot can change in twenty years. And yes, Mikhail is called by his last name in the ending to symbolize that he has grown up.
Also, Dimitri's name is not spelled wrong, he's a character from the game, and his name is spelled like that.
Consider the ending a mood whiplash of some sorts or genre shift to transition away from the otherwise cheery nature of the past two chapters.
