Chapters Chapter 1: The Shining Peasant
The full moon shined bright over the Everfree Forest. Deep in the forbidding wilderness a clearing started to form, revealing an unnatural path that was built by creatures of intelligence. And at the end of this path laid the oddly formed opening to a cave. The entrance of this cave was carved out of stone to look like that of a giant bear head with its jaws wide open. And resting on the forehead of this carving was the image of a 8-point golden star. The cave was designed specifically to resemble that of an Ursa Major.
Out of the midnight sky descended, a dark object. A black chariot, with spiked blood red wheels, and one sole occupant in a black robe at the reins. The vehicle was pulled by a single crimson red dragon, that was no bigger than a teenager of his kind. As the chariot landed on the stone path, it came to a screeching halt that could only be compared to metal against a chalkboard. The cloaked figure stepped off the chariot and pulled the hood off his head to reveal his face to the starlit sky. He was a unicorn stallion with a smoke gray coat and jet black mane and tail. He had glaring red eyes. And a set of red crystal quarts for a cutie mark.
"Good work Garble. But make it a smoother landing next time!" replied Sombra.
"Whatever, geezer!" said Garble.
Sombra looked down the path and stared directly into the cave. Finally, after all these years, the object hidden within would be his to claim.
Garble interrupted" Hey Sombra, remind why we came to 'this hole in a rock' again".
Sombra replied" Because, this is where the Goldstar Amulet is kept. After 30 years of searching, it is finally within my grasp".
The unicorn proceeded to walk forward towards the cave. He was a short distance away from the entrance when something stopped him. A bright purple aura started to glow from the carving's eyes. It expanded into a dome around the cave with white stars on it, that when connected, formed the Ursa constellation. When completely formed, I looked like a sphere display of the starry sky.
The ground started shake beneath Sombra's hooves. He turned his gaze to the nearby line of trees. Making its way through the forest, was a large, lumbering, dark figure. When it was close by, the shaking stopped. The creature stood up on its hind legs and broke the top of the tree line. In the moonlight, it was revealed to be a full grown Ursa Major. The star on its forehead glowed sapphire-blue as it towered over Sombra and Garble.
Sombra looked up and said"I am Sombra, Unicorn Sorcerer!".
"What do you seek here?" asked the Ursa.
Sombra replied "I seek the amulet that lies within".
The starry creature growled at the intruder the said "This place is protected by magic against the unworthy. Only one may enter, 'The Gem in the Sunlight'".
With that, the dome around the cave vanished and the Ursa retreated back into the forest. Sombra turned around and started back towards his chariot. He contemplated what he had just learned. Yet another obstacle stood between him and his destiny. Obviously, He was not the worthy one.
Sombra stopped at his chariot and Garble said "What now old-timer?".
He replied "A minor setback. I will not let one pony deny me what is rightfully mine".
The sorcerer pulled the hood of his robe back over his head and boarded the chariot. With a slap of the reins Garble took off into the night sky. It looked liked Sombra had a new challenge to face.
"For now, I must find this 'Gem in the Sunlight'".
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Dawn broke over the capital city of Canterlot. It wasn't the largest city in Equestria, but it was the wealthiest. Not only was it a center of commerce, but also fine art. Some of the greatest artists were found there. Much of the economy and industries of Equestria were run from this city as well. And it was also home to Equestria's elite, including most of the nobles and large business owners. But most importantly, it was home to the Royal Family. King Galaxus and his 2 sons. The elder, Solaris, Prince of the Day and the younger, Artemis, Prince of the Night.
But on this particular morning, there was a commotion in the merchant's market place. The Royal Guards were in pursuit of somepony. Led by commander Silver Sword, they chased a suspected thief. Eventually, in the upper class part of the market, they cornered and surrounded the pony. It was a white coated mare with a pink mane and tail. She was just slightly taller than an average sized adult mare. She wore a ragged looking brown robe with a hood over her head and a horn visible, making her appear to be a unicorn. And on her back was pair of saddlebags that looked to be filled with apples.
"We have you surrounded thief! Give up!" shouted the grey pegasus commander.
From a distance, a crowd gathered and looked as the guards moved in on their target. A unicorn couple from the elite class noticed the commotion. One was a gray stallion with a well styled black mane and tail, wear a pair of spectacles. The other was tan mare sporting a teal and white mane and tail, wearing pink pear earrings. By name, they were Jet Set and Upper Crust, a pair of very successful business owners. And they didn't like who they saw.
"Dear, who is that ruffian over there?" asked Jet Set to his wife.
Upper Crust replied "Haven't you heard, honey? She's that thieving peasant, Celestia. She steals whatever she wants, whenever she wants and doesn't care who she disturbs. The guards have been after her for years. She's nothing more than a "street nag".
"Well, in that case, I do hope they catch her this time" said the elite stallion.
By this time, the guards had almost every escape route for the peasant mare cutoff. And they were just about to make the arrest.
"We have you this time, street nag" said one of the guards.
At that moment, something swooped out of the sky. A yellow and fire-red bird hovered over the circle of guards. It let out a bright golden flash of light. The guards were blinded and Celestia took the chance slip through them and get away.
"HA HA! Great work Philomena. They'll never outsmart a phoenix" she said while running down the street.
She ran down a flight of stairs to one of the lower levels of the city. There, she went onto another street full of ponies, all rushing to begin their day. Celestia bobbed and weaved through the crowd as Philomena followed her from overhead. The guards were already hot on their trail again and they had to keep moving. As celestia neared the end of the street, she lit her horn in golden aura and cast a spell. The guards a rag robed pony run out of the crowd and down into an alleyway. They ran after the figure thinking it to be their target. But as they caught up with it, it vanished. It was just an illusion.
At that same time, Celestia broke from the sea of ponies and onto a walkway leading to the middle class part of Canterlot. As he made down a row of houses, another group of guards spotted her from behind.
"You! Halt!" one of them shouted.
They immediately started to pursue her at top speed. Celestia ran straight down the street, dodging everypony in the way. It eventually turned a town square with a fountain in the middle. Ponies would gather here to enjoy themselves and conduct other activities. Looking around, Celestia saw the perfect place to hide. When the guards got the square, they saw no sign of their target. They saw only the normal foals playing and ponies talking. The only notable thing was a large, bulky white Pegasus with tiny wings flexing his muscles. Just an ordinary showoff. So the guards moved on.
As soon as the guards left, Celestia stepped out from behind the muscular stallion. She had been moving her body in tune with his to hide. She ran out of the square and toward the outer limits of the city. As she came on to one on the main roads, Silver Sword and his guards caught sight of her again. Once again, they started to run after her. Celestia galloped down the road and turned a corner leading straight back into market place again. She went into a large shop and ran up the stairs to the top floor. The guards followed her to the top where they had her cornered at a window.
"No more tricks! Your under arrest." said Silver Sword.
"Then come and get me." replied Celestia.
The guards all rushed at her at once. At that moment, Celestia jumped out the window. She seemed to float in midair, but her horn wasn't lit, so no magic. While the guards all tumbled out the window. they fell four stories before landing in a wagon full of what looked like dirt. But the sign on the side said "FRESH MANURE ".
Celestia continued to float in midair for a few moments, admiring the humorous position she had put the guards in. Then she drifted off over the streets. She floated over a half dozen blocks before seeing where she desired to land. Celestia started to descend toward ground. As she did, the wind caught her robe, and exposed what appeared to be a pair of white wings. She touched down on the ground and folded her wings back under her robe. Celestia was no ordinary unicorn, she was an alicorn.
"Finally, we lost them! That was great work Philomena. But you did cut it a little close." Celestia said to her phoenix friend.
Philomena landed on her back and replied "Sorry. But you try blending in with other birds when your flame colored. Besides, I got there in time, didn't I".
Celestia had a special sense for understanding what animals were saying. And that included Philomena. They both never thought much of it. But they were happy to be able to converse with each other intelligently.
Celestia sighed and said "True. Thank you, Philomena. At least that chase worked up our appetites".
"Yeah! Did you see the look on there faces when they landed in that manure?" said the phoenix.
Celestia lit the golden aura of her horn and levitated a couple of apples out her saddlebag. "And now, breakfast is served!" she said. She levitated one of the apples to Philomena, who grasped it in her talons and started to eat it.
Celestia bit into her own apple, swallowing in large chunks. The sweet taste of apple juice after every bite. Soon, both her and Philomena had eaten their first course right down to the core. Celestia levitated two more apples out her bag. She was about to give another to her feathered friend when something caught her attention. From around the corner of a building, she could see what looked like a child. She turned around to see a small grey pegasus filly with a blonde mane and tail. Then from around the corner came a pegasus mare of the same colors. Both ponies looked very thin and starved. It was safe to assume that they to were among those under poverty in canertlot's peasantry.
Celestia turned to face the mother and daughter pair. She smiled and said "Hello, who are you?".
The mother put her hoof around her daughter and answered "I'm Derpy! And this is my daughter, Ditsy".
Celestia knew what it was like to go without food, so se decided it would nice to help. She levitated half of the total amount of apples from her bags over to them. She smiled and said "Are you two hungry? I can spare some food if you'd like".
"Would you really do that?" asked Derpy.
"Of course, it's no problem" Answered Celestia.
"Thank you, miss" said Derpy.
And with that, Derpy and Ditsy started to flap their wings and float in mid air. They picked the apples up in their front legs and then flew off toward whatever part of town they called home. Celestia knew she had probably just given them the most food they'd had in sometime. Even if she had to give up a few of her own meals, she was glad she could help. But this good feeling was interrupted by Philomena angrily pecking at Celestia's head.
"Ow! What's that for" Celestia said while rubbing the sore spot with her hoof.
Philomena leered at Celestia and said " You just gave up half of our entire load. Why?".
Celestia answered "I don't need a reason to be kind to others".
Celestia levitated two more apples out of her other bag and gave one to Philomena. She started to walk down along the street while eating and thinking to herself. As she walked, a metallic object around her neck swung back and forth while gleaming in the sunlight. It was a necklace that looked like a sun in a half circle. It was a very special object to Celestia, as it was the thing she had to remember her mother by.
"Hey Celestia! Do you think we're going to have to keep living like this forever?" asked Philomena.
Celestia answered "No, Philomena. Someday, we're going to make an honest living. We'll live big house that's all ours, we'll wear fancy clothes, and eat food we actually bought. ...And who knows...Maybe I'll even find love". The thought of romance made her blush.
"All that would be nice, wouldn't it" said Philomena.
As the two of them were coming to the end of the street, they saw a large crowd gathering. They were all standing around the main road leading to the palace, so it must've been important.
"I wonder what's going on!" said Celestia.
"Well lets go find out!" answered Philomena.
Celestia ran toward the crowd. It was filled with an assortment of ponies from all walks of life, so it would easy for somepony to hide among the populace. She assimilated herself into the crowd and began to make her way through it. At the same time Philomena hovered over everypony to front. As Celestia came to the front of the gathering Philomena landed on her back. Both looked down the street and saw the source of the commotion. A precession of royal guards was making its way towards the palace. And in the middle of the parade was a green and gold carriage being pulled by earth pony stallions in tuxedoes.
"Another suitor for prince, uh?" said one mare.
"This has got to be the seventh or eighth one!" said another.
"Just when is he going to pick a bride, anyway?" said the last.
Celestia had heard that the prince, Solaris, had come of age recently and his father expected him to choose a bride. The streets of canterlot were abuzz with gossip about it. But she had also heard that the Prince had turned down all the noble mares presented to his thus far. Many ponies were wondering why a bride hadn't been chosen yet. It was obvious this was suitor attempting to present herself.
The precession was moving along smoothly, unit something happened. A small Pegasus filly fell out of the sky. It was Ditsy Doo, and she landed right in front of the carriage. Both of the earth ponies pulling it reared up in surprise. At that moment, Derpy landed next to her daughter.
One of the earth ponies yelled "You little brat!".
Derpy replied "I'm sorry! She was just trying to get a better view when she fell!".
"Well, your going to be!" said the earth ponies as he raised his hoof.
The angry earth pony was about to lower his fist onto the mother and daughter. Celestia instantly reacted. Her horn lit up as she cast a spell. A force field appeared around Derpy and Ditsy Doo. The earth pony hit the bubble and was sent back by the shock wave. Both ponies and the carriage were shaken by the blow. The force field dropped and the two pegusi flew away at top speed. The guards turned their attention toward the commotion. Moments later, the door of carriage the opened and it's sole rider stepped out. It was a aqua-blue pegasus mare with a golden-orange mane and tail, and she was wearing a orange rime-stone saddle dress. She looked out over the crowd with a glaring look in her eyes.
"What is the cause of this hold up?!" she yells.
Celestia stepped out of the sea of ponies. She looked at the noble mare and said "You and your escort have no right to others like that! Just who do you think you are, anyway?".
The noble mare replied "I am duchess Lightning Dust! And how dare you speak to me like that peasant!".
"A Duchess, uh? Well I'm sure a pony as rich as you could afford some manners!" said Celestia.
"WHY YOU, 'STREET NAG'!" yelled Lightning Dust.
At that moment, Lightning Dust spread out her wings. In one large flap, she made a gust of wind to knock Celestia and Philomena back into a puddle on the side of the street. Both the mare and her bird were soaked. They stood up out of puddle, dripping wet, and stared angrily at Lightning Dust.
A moment later, Celestia's angry expression turned into a smirk. "Look at that Philomena! It isn't everyday you see a pony with a butt on both ends!" she said.
With that, the Duchess got back into her carriage. The guards and carriage began to move and the precessions was on it's way again. Celestia watched until the parade had made it's way through the palace gates. When it was through, the drawbridge went up and the gates closed. With the noble no longer in sight the crowd started to disperse. Celestia shook herself off to lessen the dampness of her robe. Philomena jumped onto her friends back and started to let off heat to dry themselves off. Soon enough, the pair was dry enough to walk without dripping. Celestia once again started walking on her way. She walk away from the palace and after awhile was in one of lower class areas of the city.
As they walked, Philomena rode on Celestia's back and could tell something was bothering her. Trying to start up a conversation, the phoenix pecked the pony on the back of her head. Celestia reacted in pain and became aware of her friend's desire for attention.
"What is it Philomena?" Celestia asked gently.
"You did a good thing helping those pegasi out. But next time, be more careful! You know I hate getting wet." answered Philomena.
Celestia replied "Thank you. And I'm sorry we got all wet. I didn't expect that bad a reaction".
The phoenix inquired "Why did you let her insult you like that? Your no 'street nag'".
Celestia answered "What's important is that I did the right thing. It doesn't matter what they say about me".
Philomena said "I'll bet nopony would treat you like that if they knew you were an alicorn and I was a phoenix".
Celestia stopped in her tracks and said "Philomena! You know why we keep that a secret. If everypony knew a peasant like me was an alicorn, there would be an uproar. The same if they knew I had a phoenix for a pet. Everypony would treat us than they already do".
Celestia continued walking again. Soon they came to an abandoned house that seemed to fit in with all the other rundown buildings. For Celestia and Philomena, this was home. The two entered the house to prepare for a good night's sleep.
"Don't worry Philomena, our lives will get better".
Author's Note
In this chapter, Celestia helped those less fortunate than herself, even when it came at her own expense. She was being an example of a good person.
Chapter 2: The Spirited Prince
Once again, dawn broke over the city of Canterlot. Though this time the commotion was not in the streets but rather palace. A loud scream of frustration could be heard echoing throughout the halls, and it was a female scream. All the gold clad guards could tell it was going to be one "those" days again.
King Galaxus, a large midnight blue-coated alicorn with a shadow purple mane & tail, royal purple eyes, and a galaxy star cutie, make stood alone in the throne room looking out one of the many stain glass widows. He looked to his right over at the doors of the throne room. He could hear the sound of heavy hoof steps and angry muttering in a female voice. Galaxus knew where had happened and prepared his mind for the worst.
Suspecting what was wrong, Galaxus asked "Miss Lightning Dust, what is the matter?".
Lightning Dust continued to scowl as she replied "'WHAT'S THE MATTER?' you say." in a loud tone. "I'll tell you what's wrong. Your Son!" she continued. "I have never been so insulted in my entire life. Him and that oversized cat. I'm leaving this instant!" she finishes.
With that, Lightning Dust turned around and started to stomp out of the throne room. As she walked, Galaxus saw there was a hole torn along rear flank of her dress, revealing the white and heart dotted bloomers underneath. He put a hoof over his mouth to muffle the chuckling as the noble mare walked away. When she was out of the room, Lightning Dust spread out her wings and, with one powerful flap, created a gust of wind with a draft that slammed the doors behind her.
The Royal Gardens were one of the largest gardens in all of Equestria. Filled with exotic animals from all over the kingdom and beyond. Its sheer size and number of plant plants made it look like its own small forest. But at its center, the main path leading to it, there was a fountain of great architechure. At this time of day, there was someone sitting by the fountain on one of the benches around it. It was an alicorn stallion with a flowing red and crimson mane and tail, white coat, and a red sun cutie mark. On this stallion's head sat a crown that looked like a helmet sporting a plume, with a ruby at is center. And around his neck was a solid gold amulet with a single large ruby at the front. This stallion was none other than the high spirited Prince Solaris. He sat on a bench, facing toward the fountain, while levitating a book in front of his face.(A "Daring Do" book, specificly)
With a serious tone, the king said "Solaris! We need to talk!".
Putting on his own serious face, Solaris replied "Yes, Father. What is the matter?".
"Don't play dumb! You know why I'm here. Why did you treat the Duchess so poorly?" asked the king.
"Oh, but father, I didn't. Regulus was just playing with her. Right Regy!" said the prince.
"Sure! What you said. But she wasn't in the mood. At least this fabric makes a good chew toy." growled the fire lion. Solaris had the natural ability to understand animals, and Galaxus had lived long enough to know how they spoke by now. So both royals knew what Regulus was saying.
Galaxus was not amused however. He said" Son, how many times have we had this talk? You know you are expected to find a bride by your by the end of the year, which is coming soon.".
"But why am I expected to do so? I am a grown adult! Should it not be up to me when I marry." shouted Solaris.
"Because, son, it is custom for the heir to the throne to have a spouse before their coronation. Which means you have to choose a bride before you can be named Crown Prince, the next King." explained Galaxus.
Solaris responded "But that's the thing, father! I don't feel that I am ready for that responsibility. I still want see and learn everything about Equestria that I can, so that I can actually know our ponies. Marriage is a commitment where I would have to be there for my wife, and it wouldn't be fair to her if I only wanted to travel.".
Galaxus knew his son was right. The only parts of Equestria, beside Canterlot, that Solaris had seen were the places he went for political meetings and public appearances. Other than that, Solaris sent most of his time seeing to daily affairs at the palace. But, at least, he knew what would be expected of him in a marriage.
Not being finished, Solaris continued "And why is I cant just go see more of our land? My brother, Artimis, gets to go to both city and country areas alike, all the time.".
"It's part of your brother's duty to go where problems happen on a nightly basis. It's why he is away right now. Your duties are to take care of the everyday matters in running the kingdom." answered Galaxus.
"Please forgive me if I don't agree with that arrangement, father." said Solaris.
Galaxus knew he was getting nowhere at this time. He said "We will continue this discussion later, son.".
With that, Galaxus turned away from his son and started to walk back on that path toward the palace. As soon as his father was out of sight, Solaris walked over to Regulus. While the big cat was still chewing on the cloth, Solaris started to pet him on the red blazon mane. Sensing some thing wrong, Regy stopped chewing, sat up on his hind legs, and looked at his pony friend.
"Solaris, I have known you to long. What's the matter?" asked the lion.
With a serious look on his face, Solaris said " Why can't He understand? I need to see more!".
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Later that day, King Galaxus was back in the throne room, look at a stain glass window. This window showed two alicorns, a stallion and mare, crossing horns. This image was Galaxus and his wife. The window had been made shortly after they wedding. He couldn't help but wonder what advise she could have given him on this suitor business. She had always known how their sons thought.
While deep in thought, Galaxus perked up his ears at the sound of faint hoof steps. Turning his head, he saw the source of sound. In the corner of the throne room by the doors, draped in shadows, stood the figure of a pony. Upon looking closer, Galaxus could tell it was someone he knew.
Leering into the corner, The King said "Sombra! Are you hiding in the shadows again?".
Stepping out into the light shining through one of the windows, He replied "Sorry your highness. I entered and could tell you were thinking to yourself. I didn't want to interrupt.".
"That's fine, no worries." said The King. But then a thought crossed his mind. "Sombra! You are my most successful advisor, are you not?".
Sombra thought for a moment the replied "Of course, sire. I have always done my best in your service.".
"That's good. Because I have request for you. I need you to look through the law and custom books, and see what must be done if Solaris doesn't choose a bride by the end of the year." Said Galaxus.
As Galaxus was speaking to Sombra, the grey unicorn was watching something out of the corner of his eye. A smoky shadow figure came out of Sombra's own shadow and climbed the wall up to ceiling. It flew across the room and slid down the wall over the throne, stopping at a display stand with a crystal on it. A clawed paw reached out from the shadow and grabbed the crystal, pulling into the blackness. A moment later, the same clawed paw came out and replaced the object with an identical copy, before retracting into the shadow. The smoke figure then shot up the wall, across the ceiling, and back into Sombra's shadow. And all without the king noticing.
With that, Sombra said "Of course, your Highness. I shall start this very evening.".
The King smiled and said "Thank you.".
With the request made, Sombra turned around toward the door and started to walk. Lighting his horn, a red aura enveloped the doors, forcing them open. Sombra walked out of the throne room, closing the doors behind him. He continued to walk through the halls of the palace until he came to the door to his room. He entered into his room, closing and locking the door behind him. Sombra was now alone, surrounded by the book shelves along every wall, with a desk in the middle of the room and a plain looking bed in the corner.
Sombra called out loud "You can come out now!".
At that call, a figure started to rise from Sombra's shadow on the floor. The red scaly form of a dragon wearing a shoulder bag came into light.
Grinning, Garble said "Nice trick making me into a shadow, old timer. Now what do we do with this thing?". He asked his question as he reach into the bag and pulled out the stolen crystal.
Taking the crystal in his magic, Sombra said "We will use it's 'special' properties to find our 'Gem in the Sunlight'".
With that, Sombra broke out into a evil laugh. He was soon followed by his dragon accomplice.
This went on for a few seconds until Garble asked "Why are we laughing?".
That night, out in the far end of the garden by the palace wall, somepony walked alone. A large stallion wearing a grey hooded robe, with a horn sticking out, walked toward the wall. As soon as He was a few meters from the wall, He stopped. Looking up at the top of the structure, the stallions face was revealed in the moonlight. He had a flat red mane and thin beard, with turquoise eyes. A sudden gust of night wind blew up the robe, revealing a set of large white wings and a red sun cutie mark.
A familiar voice called out to the stallion "Going somewhere, Solaris?".
Solaris turned around while taking off the hood. From the look of it, you almost couldn't tell it was the prince. His mane and tail did not flow or glow like usual. And He seemed slightly shorter as well. Solaris had suppressed his alicorn magic to hide his identity.
Seeing the voice came from Regulus, Solaris said "Yes, my friend. I need to see more of our kingdom. Maybe then I can at least surpress my urge to roam.".
"Did you ever consider that you want to roam because your looking for something, or someone?" ask the lion.
Knowing what Regulus meant, Solaris said "I guess I won't know until I go looking.".
Regulus replied "Then I wish you luck.".
Giving a nod of thanks, Solaris then pulled the hood back over his head. He then once again looked up to the wall. Spreading out his wings, He lifted into the air. Solaris continued rise until he over the top of the wall. He then flew off into the city of Canterlot, flying to his destiny.
Chapter 3: A Fateful Meeting
Morning broke over the city of Canterlot again. The streets were filled with ponies all scrambling to begin their day, as usual. The market street ran through the entire city, with higher class shops being closer to the palace. As such, this whole road is known as Main Street. And is one of the largest centers of activity in all the whole city.
Speaking of gossip, the first mare said "So have you heard the latest on the prince's suitor matter? They say that Duchess Lightning Dust has already left the palace".
The second mare said"Yes, I heard. Word is spreading fast. And she left after only one day to. That must be a new record".
The third mare then said "This has to by at least the eighth mare the prince has turned away. Just what is the king going to do now?".
While these mares continued with their gossip, they didn't notice who passed by. A tall figure passed by walking down Main Street toward the lower class sections. This pony was taller than the average stallion and wore a dull grey robe with a hood over his head. Under the robe, this stallion had a white coat, red mane & tail, and a horn on his head, making him look like a unicorn. The stallion peered out from under his hood to take in the sights of the city. As he looked around, one could get a good look at his face to see the fine red beard he sported. The was no ordinary unicorn, it was Prince Solaris. And he had disguised himself as a commoner to blend in.
As Solaris walked along, he thought to himself "So this is what Canterlot looks like on a daily basis. It's all so busy and lively. I can't waint to see more of the city".
Meanwhile, in the middle class stretch of Main Street, shop owners were already starting to open their doors. And food stores were selling freshly made edibles. One in particular was a bakery located among the food shops. The owner, a brown coated, blond haired earth pony stallion, was putting fresh loafs of bread on table in front of his shop. But somepony was watching him from around the corner of an alley a few buildings down the street.
After she was done whispering Celestia said "So do you get the plan?".
Philomena nodded head and replied "Yeah, I distract, you grab. Got it!".
With that, Philomena flapped her wings and took flight. She flew up over the bakery and eyed the stand with bread. Knowing what she had to do, she spread her wings and descended into a glide. After a few moments, Philomena landed on the stand. The shop owner looked surprised to see the bird. Philomena started to stick her tongue out at the stallion and blow raspberries at him. Not liking this, the shop owner started yelling at the bird.
Scowling, he said "Hey you bird!".
While the stallion continued to yell at Philomena, he didn't notice two loafs of bread on the stand become enveloped in a golden glow. Both loafs flew off the stand and around the corner to the alley. See this, Philomena took it as her queue to leave. Flapping her wings again, she shot up skyward and took off over the building, leaving the baker confused.
Seeing her partner in crime had arrived, Celestia said "Good timing! And as usual, a fine performance".
Philomena responded "Thank you very much. Now let's eat".
With that, Celestia lit her horn and levitated two loafs of bread out her the saddlebags of her back. Philomena grasped one in her talons and started pecking into it. Celestia stated to eat her loaf from one end, enjoying every bite as it came. But as she was eating, something caught the corner of her eye. Celestia looked up and at the corner across intersection. There she saw the figure of a tall stallion wearing a robe walking down the street. Curious, she started to stare. After few moments, Celestia could see the face under hood of the robe, and he was handsome. Captivated, she continued to watch.
Solaris was continuing to walk down Main Street, having entered the middle class stretch. He was still taking in all the sights of Canterlot. Now that he had come the section with so many food shops, he was also taking in all smells to be had. As Solaris walked, he noticed that he was upon an intersection. Looking to of one the street corners at the intersection, something caught his attention. Solaris looked at a fruit stand full of apples with a small brown-coated colt in front of it. As the colt stared at the apples, Solaris could tell what he wanted.
Solaris walked up to the colt and said "Are you hungry, young one?".
The colt knotted a "yes".
With that, Solaris lit his horn and levitated one of the apples. He said "Here, take this."
Solaris levitated the apple in front of the colt. The colt's face lit up with joy and he get grabbed the apple in his mouth before running off. As the young foal ran off, Solaris felt good about what he did.
The fruit merchant said "Hey you! You better be able to pay for that apple".
Turning to the merchant in confusion, Solaris replied "Excuse me, what?".
The merchant said "I don't usually give away my fruit for free. You need to pay for that apple!".
Solaris realized that he hadn't brought any money with him. Looking nervous, he said "I'm sorry, sir. I don't have any money. Maybe we can think of something else".
The merchant's expression turned from a scowl to anger. He yelled "WHAT! You know that's called stealing, right? I could call the guards on you right now, if I want".
Celestia was watching all this happening from across the intersection. Wanting to help, she levitated her bread into saddlebag and jetted off the bench. Philomena noticed this with a look of confusion. Having finished her bread, Philomena took flight after Celestia. Celestia ran across the intersection and stopped right in front of the fruit stand, right next to Solaris.
Thinking fast, Celestia said to Solaris "There you are brother. I've been looking all over for you".
Looking more confused, Solaris whispered to her "Um, what you doing?".
Celestia whispered back to him "Just play along".
Not knowing what else to do, Solaris decided to trust what this mare was doing and go with it.
Looking puzzled, the merchant said "You know this stallion, miss?".
Celestia replied "Yes, he's my brother. But he had a bit of a social disorder. He's a compulsive giver. He gives away anything to anyone he thinks it'll help. He's even been known to give to random animals".
As Celestia said this, Philomena landed on her back. Trying to act, Solaris lit his horn with a crimson glow and levitated his saddlebags off. He floated them over to the bird.
Solaris plodded the bags onto Philomena and said " Here birdy, take my bags!".
Celestia levitated the bags off of Philomena and back onto Solaris. Awkwardly grinning, she said " See what I mean? It's a problem. Unfortunately, he sometimes also give away thing \s that aren't even his. In fact we were just on our way to a therapist this morning when we got separated."
Still scowling, the merchant said "Alright, fine. But don't let him try this again."
Celestia replied "Thank you, sir. Sorry for the disturbance."
With that, Celestia started to walk down the street, waving her head for Solaris to follow her. Taking the hint, Solaris started to follow the mare. Soon enough, they were out of sight of the merchant, and Solaris was breathing a sigh of relief. The two continued to walk down the coble stone road for a while. Eventually, they came to a street corner with a statue surrounded by benches. Taking a much needed rest, They sat down on one of the benches.
Solaris removed his hood and said "Thank you very much, kind mare. I don't usually got into trouble like that."
Celestia could now see the stallion's full face, and he was better looking than she had thought. She removed her hood and said "Your welcome. I just couldn't let somepony so kind get in trouble with the guards like that. What you did for that foal was very nice."
Now Solaris could see the full face of the mare, and she was a rare beauty. "Thank you, again. I just saw he was hungry and helped him."
Celestia could tell this stallion was very kindhearted. But he wasn't of the typical Cabterlot variety.
Celestia asked "Your not from around here, are you? What did was nice, of course. But most ponies are aware of what their doing."
Solaris replied "Yes. I'm sort of new to Canterlot. I barely even know where I am."
Upno hearing this, Celestia got an idea. "um-uh... If you want I could show you around. Help you see the sights."
Philomena, still on Celestia's back, heard this and pecked her on the head. She squawked "Why would you offer to do that. We have better things to do."
Hearing what the bird said, Solaris said "If you do have other things you need to do, then I don't want to impose. Your bird seems serious."
Celestia simply replied "Oh, it's nothing, really. She's just being... Wait! You could understand her, what she's saying?" Then her and Philomena's looks turned to surprise.
Seeing their expressions, Solaris stated "Yes, I can understand her. I can sort of understand animal speech."
Still looking surprised, Celestia said "So can I! I didn't know anypony else could do that."
Philomena said "You can hear what I say? In that case, you might be interesting to hang around."
Solaris chuckled, then replied "Thank you. If it's ok with both of you, I would like a tour of the city. Thank you very much."
Celestia smiled and said "Of course it's ok. Oh, I should introduce us first. I'm Celestia, the unicorn. And this is my best friend, Philomena the ... uh, firebird..." Philomena stood up straight. She knew it was best if no one knew she was a phoenix.
Solaris smiled and said "And I'm... Helios. Nice to meet you."
With that, Celestia and "Helios" got off their bench and started to walk down Main Street again. They headed off to see the many splendors of the capital.
In Canterlot Palace, There was a large room secretly built into the castle walls. In this room, bookshelves, filled with spell books and dark magic tomes, line opposite sides. On the far side was a table lined with lab equipment and magic potions. But in the middle of the room was far more impressive. A large circular fire place rose from the floor, with a large slab of metal on the top. Out of this metal slab rose four black crystals, all positioned in the points of a square. This entire room was the secret lair of Sombra and Garble.
At this time, garble was breathing flames into a door on the side of the magic furnace, and looked to exhausted. Meanwhile, Sombra was over at the lab table, casting his black glowing magic into a blue crystal. This was the very same crystal he had stolen the day before. After a few moments, the crystal flashed, showing it was ready.
Garble stopped breathing flames fore a minute to catch his breath for a moment. He turn to Sombra and asked "Hey, old timer! Why do I have to be breathing my flames into this stupid furnace, anyway. Can't we just use a normal fire?"
Sombra turned to face garble, levitating the crystal in his magic. He said "No! Must I remind you that is a MAGIC furnace. As such, it needs magical flames to be used for spells. And there is no better such thing than Dragon Fire. Which we both know you have much to boast about."
Looking smug, Garble said "Yeah, that true! I am pretty hot. But how does this spell work any ways?"
Sombra replied "I am about to show you. Just keep breathing flames."
Having caught his second wind, Garble resumed his fire breathing. Sombra walked over to the furnace. He levitated the crystal into the center of the four black ones. He then closed his eyes, and a few seconds later, open them to reveal a green glow. This was sombra's dark magic. He fired a green and purple bolt into the center crystal, causing it to flash. A moment later, all five crystals stated to crackle with black lightning. After a few moments, the lightning subsided and the crystals took on an eerie purple glow. The spell was ready.
Sombra crack an evil smile and said "Now, with this spell of insight, I command it be revealed to me : who is the "Gem in the Sunlight"?"
The glow of the crystals started to shift. A moment later, they started to form an image. The looked like the form of a mare with a white coat, pink mane & tail, and bearing a sun cutie mark. But what more, it was an alicorn.
Confused, Sombra said "An alicorn. But I have never seen this one. There is none such as her among the nobles. What is her name?"
Letters started to appear in the light that formed a message. It read "Celestia, the street peasant. She is thought to be a unicorn".
Garble stopped breathing flames and said "That's it! We go to all this trouble just to find some bum peasant? Alicorn or not, what a rip-off!"
Looking calmer, Sombra said "Calm yourself! As we already suspect, there is more to this mare than meets the eye. I think we have the guards give her a "Special" invitation to the palace, one she can't refuse."
With that, Sombra started into an evil laugh. Shortly followed by Garble.
After a moment, Garble asked "Uh, why are we laughing again?"
In the lower class section of the city, there was an old coble stone fountain sitting in the intersection of a walkway. It was surround by a circle of street lights, all of which were lit up at this hour. On the side of the fountain, sat two ponies in robes with their hoods over their heads. It none other than Celestia and Solaris, still going by "Helios". They were taking a rest after having been around the city all day.
"Helios" sat next to Celestia on the fountain, who had Philomena sitting next to her. He said "Thank you, again, for giving me a full tour of the city."
Celestia replied " Your very welcome. It's been a while since the last time I've hung out with anypony. So I appreciate the company."
"What do you mean, don't you send any time with your family?" asked the now curious Solaris.
Celestia's face turned glum. She replied "Well, no. I live alone in this part of town. Philomena is my only real friend."
Solaris again asked "You live around here? For how long? What about your family, if it's ok for me to ask?".
Celestia gave a small smile. "It's ok. You see, I've lived on the streets for as long as I can remember. The only family I ever had was my mother. We never knew the rest of our family. But we made the best of things, just me, my mother, and Philomena."
Giving her the same smile, Solaris said "Your mother sounds like a fine mare. What happen to her?".
Celestia replied "Honestly, I'm not sure. One day, we just got separated in a large crowd. I could never find her after that, no matter how much I searched. Eventually, Me and Philomena just started to live on our own. And we have been ever since. The only thing I have to remember my mother by is this amulet." Celestia pulled back her robe to reveal the half-sun necklace around her neck. "My mother gave it to me when I was a filly. She told me it was our only physical connection to our family. And that if I hold onto it, it might lead me to them someday."
Feeling for her, Solaris said "I'm sorry to hear that. I do hope you can find her some day."
Celestia said "Thank you. I'm sure I will. And what about you? Where are you from?".
Solaris developed an unpleasant look on his face. He said "Let's just say I come from a place where they value tradition too much."
Celestia got a confused look on her face. She said "What do you mean, Helios?".
Solaris replied "Well, my family is too stuck on customs and tradition. They want me to get married before I'm even ready to settle down."
Celestia became surprised to hear this. She said "That's terrible! How can they do that?".
Solaris chuckled and replied "He-He, it's easy when it's what they've been doing for a long time. Unfortunately, because of that, they expect every generation of youths to follow those same ways. That's why I'm here in Canterlot, to see some of Equestria before I actually have to get married."
After hearing all this, Celestia felt sorry for "Helios". Wishing to help his feel better, she said "Well, then I hope I was able to help make this day special for you."
Solaris looked into Celestia's eyes and said "Believe me, this whole day has been a breath of fresh air for me. I'm especially glad I got to meet a mare as kind as you."
The two of them started to stare into each other's eyes. It was as if they were both making a genuine connection. In the silence of the night, everything seemed at ease. But, that silence was suddenly broken by the sound of hoof steps getting closer. A figure stepped out of the shadows around the fountain. Both ponies and the bird took a closer look at him. Celestia recognized the familiar form of Commander Silver Sword.
With a scowl on his face, he shouted "HALT! Don't even think about running! We have you surrounded!"
The three of them took a look around and noticed multiple other figures in the shadows step forward, all of them royal guards. They were completely cut off from any escape route. Solaris started to think that they might have been sent by his father to take his back to the palace. But he couldn't figure out why there so many of them. All he did know was that this had both himself and Celestia concerned.
Silver Sword shouted "Your coming with us!"
Seeing no other choice, Celestia grabbed Solaris by the hoof and asked "Quick, do you trust me?"
Not hesitating, he answered "Yes, I do!"
With that, Celestia lit her horn and it shined a golden light as bright as the sun. All the guards were blinded by the light and covered their eyes. Taking the opportunity, Celestia and Solaris ran past the dazed guards and down one the streets. Philomena took to the air to follow them.
As they ran, Celestia began to think they making some distance. All of a sudden, a lasso rope swooped from the sky and landed around her neck, pulling itself tight. Celestia got stopped in her tracks. Solaris stopped and turned to her with a look of surprise. The two of them looked up to see pegasus guards in the air above them, both holding ropes. Celestia lit her horn and tried to magically burn through the rope, but it did nothing.
One of the air born guards shouted "Don't even bother! Those are anti-magic ropes! You can't even teleport out!"
Then the other pegasus threw his lasso around Celestia and pulled it tight. Both pegasi swooped to the ground and tugged their ropes, restricting the mare's movement. A moment later, Silver Sword and his guards came running down the street and surrounded Celestia. A loud "caw" was heard from above, as every pony looked up to see a flame-colored bird diving toward them. Silver Sword flared his wings and flapped them hard. This created a powerful gust of wind that sent Philomena flying into the window of an abandoned building on the street. He then turned his sight to Celestia.
Looking straight at her, he said "No more running! Your coming with us this time!"
Solaris sees everything happening in front of him. Not wanting to stand by, he run over to Silver Sword and says "Let her go, at once! There is no reason for this treatment!"
Silver Sword pushes Solaris away and replies "Stay out of this! It doesn't concern you!"
Solaris can see that the guards won't be listening to him for once. They see only his disguise as a commoner. Knowing he has no other choice, Solaris takes off his hood, revealing his face. He then flares wings out from under his robe. As the guards take notice of this, they all gasp.
Speaking in the canterlot voice, Solaris says"I SAID, RELEASE HER AT ONCE! SO SAYS THE PRINCE!"
The guards all bow before Solaris, making Celestia bow as well. A moment later, they rose, still shocked
In shock and awe, Silver Sword asks "Prince Solaris?! No pony has seen you all day! Your father had to set the sun for you! What are you doing out here at this hour? And with this street nag?"
With a look of anger on his face, Solaris replied "That is none of your business, Commander. Now follow my order and release that mare at once!"
Silver Swords expression fell. He said "Normally, I would comply, your highness. But my orders came from the advisor, Sombra, today. You will have to take this matter up with him. Until then, I must take this mare into custody."
Still in anger, Solaris says "Believe me, I will!"
With that, the guards all start to walk away, heading for palace. They pulled Celestia along with them. Celestia knew her next stop would be the dungeon. But, still more, she couldn't believe what happened. She had been the Prince, the whole day.
Author's Note
After almost a year, chapter 3 is finally complete. I'm sorry it took sop long. I'M A VERY SLOW WRITER! I have seen what people have said about the story so far, and have one thing to say.
Chaper 4: The Promise of Treasure
Later, that same night in Canterlot Palace...
In Sombra's room, the place looked to be empty. The books lined the shelves, all in order. The bed was neatly made. Even the desk was tidy, with the seat pushed in. Only a single candle with a flame flickering gave any sign of activity. Suddenly, the quiet was broken as one of the bookshelves started to revolve, revealing a passageway behind. Out of this hole in the wall walked none other than Sombra, who stopped after exiting the passage. Behind him was Garble, who stopped midway out the passage.
Sombra turned to Garble and said "The guards did quite well, finding that mare on the same day I had them look for her. And my "spy spell" confirms that she's down in the dungeon right now."
Garble leaned on the wall, looking smug, and said "All right! Point for us. But, what now? How do we get her to go into that cave for us?"
Sombra gave an evil grin and said "Easy. All we have to do is work some persuasion and give her the proper incentive."
Just then, there was knock at the door. Sombra turned in surprise. The secret door to his lair was still open. He couldn't have anyone finding out about his work. Reacting by instinct, Sombra lit his horn. A black aura enveloped the revolving bookshelf, and it started to close.
Garble was still standing in the doorway as it closed. "OUCH!" he said as the door closed.
Sombra said "Keep quiet and don't move!"
With that, sombra walked to the door. He lit his horn, opening the door. When he opened the door, he was met with the sight of Solaris. Solaris looked to be angry. Sombra remembered how his spell had revealed to him that the Prince had been with Celestia the whole day. And the guards had mentioned how they met him while arresting the mare. But Sombra hadn't expected to see him so soon.
With the tone of anger, Solaris said "Sombra, we need to talk ,now!"
Sombra calmly replied "Your Highness, of course. How may I help you?"
Solaris said "The guards just arrested a mare in the lower class section of the city, on your orders. What is the meaning of this?"
As Sombra expected, it was about Celestia. He said "One of my duties is to keep peace in Canterlot. The mare was a known repeat offender. And today was her worst crime yet."
Solaris asked "And just what was that crime?"
Sombra said "Kidnapping royalty. You were found near her when she was arrested, of course."
Solaris took a look of surprise. He said "I was never kidnapped! I snuck out of the palace! She was innocent!"
Sombra grew a look of concern and said "Oh, dear! I wish I had known that sooner."
Solaris became confused and asked "What do you mean?"
Sombra plainly said "Unfortunately, she has already been sentenced."
Solaris grew concerned and asked "To what?"
Sombra said "To permanent exile. She has already been banished to parts unknown, outside of Equestria. I don't think she could be found now."
Solaris gave a look of shock, then a scowl. He yelled "How could you do such a thing so rashly. And, without even informing the Royal Family. Only We have the authority to deal such punishments. You have made a most grave error, Sombra. You ruined a young mare's life."
With that, Solaris turned away and ran away through the halls, visibly upset. Sombra could only smirk to himself about how brilliant a performance he had just given. Sombra closed his door. Moments later, the revolving bookshelf swung open. Garble walked out, rubbing a sore spot on his head. He walked over to Sombra.
Still feeling sore, Garble said "So, how did it go with ol' princey?"
Still smirking, Sombra replied "He took it better than I expected."
Sombra walked over to his bed and lit his horn. A large trunk magically slid out from under. It was time for the next phase of his plan.
______________________________________________________________________________
In one of the cells, in the dungeon, Celestia sat bound to the wall by a chain and shackle around her neck. An anti-magic ring had been placed on her horn, so she couldn't even use magic. She counted herself lucky that the guards didn't take her robe or discover her wings. She didn't need that making it worse. And she was especially glad that they didn't her mother's amulet. At least she still had that. But it didn't make being in jail any better.
Celestia exclaimed "Philomena! It's you! Oh, I'm so glad to see you."
Philomena leapt through the window and hovered down too Celestia, landing in front of her. The phoenix smiled at her pony friend, but it was easy to tell she was tired.
Philomena said "Glad I finally found you. I've been ease-dropping on the guards and searching every cell with in window all evening. It must be almost midnight by now."
Celestia replied "I know. I'm sure I've been here for hours by now. Thank you for coming coming to find me."
Philomena grew an annoyed expression, and said "Your welcome. But you shouldn't have gotten so careless. You were so distracted by "Mr. Princey", that you didn't notice we were being surrounded. Do you know how dizzy I got after Silver Sword knocked me into that window?"
Celestia replied "I'm sorry Philomena. But I don't think there will be much chance of me seeing the Prince again. He suppose to marry a mare of nobility, remember."
With that, Philomena leapt off the ground and onto Celestia's head. She spread her wings out and started to glow. A red-hot beam of heat shot out her wings and at the lock on the shackles, The shackle around Celestia's neck fell off. Philomena then shot a smaller beam at the horn ring, knocking it off. The bird leapt off of mare to let her stand. Celestia stood to her hooves and shook her entire body, trying to get feeling back in it.
Celestia stood straight up and looked down at Philomena. "Well, Philomena, looks like it's back too the streets for us."
"Oh, it doesn't have too be like that!" a voice rang out from the darkness.
Celestia and Philomena both looked in surprise. They turned to one of the large cell's corner, shrouded in darkness, where the voice came from. They looked into the corner and just barely made out what seemed to be the form of a pony.
Cautious, Celestia asked aloud "Who's there? Who are you?"
Out of the shadows, step somepony. It was a unicorn stallion with a gray coat, and a dark-gray mane & tail. He wore a black robe that covered much of his body. And he looked to be rather old.
The old stallion looked at Celestia and said "My name is Flintheart, but you call me Flint. And like you, I am but a humble beggar. But together, perhaps we can be something more."
The old stallion had a stoic look of his face. Celestia didn't know what to make of this. But, then again, the Palace Dungeon isn't exactly where you would expect to meet normal ponies. Besides, she was curious about what he just said.
Celestia asked "What do you mean?"
Old Flint replied "I mean that, somewhere in Equestria, there is a special cave. A cave filled with treasures, beyond your wildest dreams."
Celestia and Philomena looked at each other. Now this sounded interesting. At least worth listening too. They nodded to each other.
Celestia turned to Flint and said "We're listening."
Old Flint continued "It is a cave that holds the treasure of many centuries, built up. And I know both where to find, and how to get there. And, for some help, I might be willing to split it even with you. It'd be more than enough for, say, the dowry for a prince."
At hearing this, Celestia's ears perked. Could such a treasure really help her be with Solaris. It seemed farfetched to her. At the very least, any kind of treasure certainly improve her and Philomena's living conditions.
Celestia answered "Ok, you've peeked our interest. But if you know where this treasure is, why would you share it with me? What do you need my help for?"
The old stallion shrewdly replied "Look at me, I'm old! I need somepony young, with a strong set of legs, to fetch it for me. And I can think of no kind of pony better for the job than a young alicorn."
Celestia gasped at hearing this. This old stallion somehow knew she was an alicorn. But she didn't know how that could be. Celestia had never told anypony at all her secret.
Shocked, Celestia asked "Wait! How do you know I'm an alicorn? Tell me!"
The old stallion chuckled and said "Hm, Hm, Hm...Things are not always what they appear to be. Sometimes, their more than they seem, including you. With magic, might, and flight at your disposal, getting the treasure would be easy you. So, are you in?"
Still feeling skeptical, Celestia said "I might be. But there's one problem. We're stuck in this dungeon. It's magically protected against certain spells, so we can't even teleport away. How are we going to get out?"
Flint gave a smirk and replied "Like I said, Things aren't always what seem."
With that, Flint walked over to the corner of the cell furthest from the door. He lift his hoof and pressed it on one of the stone on the wall. A "click" could be heard. Then, a large bunch of stones on the wall started moving together, They swung into the wall like a door on hinges. Through the hole in the wall, Celestia could make out a set of stairs. It was a secret passage out of the prison.
Flint looked back at Celestia and asked "So, do we have a deal?"
Celestia and Philomena looked at each other. They knew it was better than staying in prison. The two nodded to each other. Philomena hopped up onto Celestia's back. And they looked at Flint together.
Celestia said, with a confident look "We're in! Lead the way!"
Flint replied "Then please, ladies first."
Still a little reluctant, Celestia walked over to the passage. She lit her horn for a light, then looked down the secret stairs. She didn't fully know what she had just signed on to, but she was ready for anything. Celestia, with Philomena on her back, stated down the tunnel.
Author's Note
Spoiler Alert: Flintheart is actually Sombra in disguise.
