Sonic: Battle for Equestria

by Snicket

Rating: teen
Tags: Other, Romance, Adventure, Princess Celestia, Crossover, Alternate Universe, Main 6, Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Comedy, Cutie Mark Crusaders
Length: 144100

Something is not right in the land of Equestria. Things sit on a razors edge as tensions run high. As an unknown threat gains strength. The heroes of Equestria are about to face there greatest challenge.

It's been a month since the events of the last arc and things seem to have become peaceful once more. However, something looms in the shadows that threatens the very existence that Equestria's heroes call home.

As foreign relations with the neighboring territories become strained. A great army slowly gains strength.

Joined by the Sol Zones Guardian and Ruler; Blaze the Cat. Sonic and the Mane 6 are about to embark on a journey that may put their power and friendship to the ultimate test.

Published 2014-08-15 23:40:02 UTC
Last updated 2018-03-18 06:10:51 UTC

Birds of Prey

Birds of Prey

The rays of the rising sun begin to peak over the horizon; marking the start of another day. Ponies emerge from their homes and begin their day. Either setting up their stands or opening up one of the many stores that dot the small country town. As young fillies and colts groan in annoyance as they leave their homes and begin their venture to the local school house.

Despite it only being the early hours of the morning, Ponyville is already buzzing with activity.

Except for one specific pony.

Even as the birds begin to sing merrily a certain cyan mare continues snooze comfortably within the confines of her soft fluffy bed. Resting in a very unlady like fashion, Ponyville’s fastest flyer, lays sprawled across the bed on her back. Her head sitting where hooves should be, while her hooves are where most would rest their head. A powder blue blanket drapes over the Pegasus form; doing little to conceal the sleeping pony.

Rainbow Dash continues to sleep blissfully ignorant of world around her; snoring loudly due to her current position. However, a particular smell seems to catch the mare’s attention. Causing her to crinkle her muzzle and lick her lips in response; though it does little to disturb the sleeping pony. It’s the clanking of dishes and hissing of something frying that awaken the mare from her slumber.

Rubbing the sleep from her eyes and smacking her lips. Rainbow Dash rises from her bed and immediately shields her eyes from the accursed sun that shines in from the open window.

“Gah, it’s way too early for you to be out.” The mare says to no one in particular as she turns to her alarm clock. “Huh, I guess not. Still, it’s too early for me,” She mutters as her head makes contact with the pillow. “I have a few more hours.”

A loud hiss followed by the sound of clanking dishes, jostles the mare awake once more.

“What was,” Dash begins, but it trails off as the muffled sound of a familiar voice is heard nearby. “Buck!”

With the grace of an oversized rhino. The cyan mare falls out of bed and smashes into her nightstand as she jumps to her hooves; causing her to hiss in pain as she rubs one of her rear legs with her wing.

“Dash, is that you?” A voice in the distance asks as the clanking suddenly ceases.

“Uh, yeah it’s me.” The mare instantly replies as she continues to run her leg. “What’cha making?”

“Breakfast,” The clanking and hissing resume. “…you hungry?”

Rainbow Dash’s ear twitch at the question as her mouth begins to water at the thought of having something else other than wheat flakes for once.

“Y-yeah sure, I could eat.” The mare shudders out as she starts to process the situation.

“Well then, get down here before it gets cold.” The voice says with a playful stern tone. “Or Tank eats it, whatever comes first.”

The mention of the possibility of missing her breakfast, snaps the mare awaken and causes her mouth to water once more and distracted the mare just enough to crash into a wooden table on the opposite side of her door.

Rainbow Dash lets out another hiss and she hits the same spot on her leg.
“Oh c’mon!” She grumbles turning to the injured appendence.

“You alright up there, Skittles?”

“Yeah, yeah, just uh….” Dash trails off as she glances at the small table she ran into. “…ran into that table in the hallway.”

“You too?” The voice asks as the hissing sound continues. “Someone should move that thing.”

The mare forces a laugh and starts towards the bathroom. “Anyway, I-I’ll be come in a minute. Just got to uh…f-freshen up…yeah.”

“Well don’t take too long. Tank’s been eyeing your food since I set it down.”

Dash says nothing and prompting leaps into the restroom and shuts the door.

“Get a hold of yourself, your making a bigger deal out of this than it really is.” Dash grumbles as she flicks the door shut with her wing. “It’s not like there’s a hidden meaning behind it or something.” She glances at the closed door. “But, still…”

After relieving herself and washing her hooves the mare turns the mirror and glances as her reflection. Her ‘tomboy’ hair cut is looking a bit shaggier than usual, thanks mostly to the wicked bed head she’s got going. Dash attempts to tame the wild mane she’s got going, but any swipe of a brush or a matting of a hoof seems to only make it worse.

“Stupid Dash, now look what you did.”

Groaning at her even more disheveled appearance, the mare turns to the small stand up shower in the corner. “I wonder if he’ll mind if…”
A loud crash breaks the mare away from her pondering and towards the door.

“Damn it! “ A familiar voice shouts from the kitchen. “Skittles, if you want any breakfast, get your butt down here! Tank’s going nuts, and is about to eat all your food!”

Rainbow Dash lets out a small chuckle as she exiting the bathroom. “He must have given the little guy too much sugar.”

***

A certain blue hedgehog, frantically holds back a hyperactive tortoise; barely at arm’s length. With one arm, while the other holds back a plate of food. The miniature helicopter blade spins rapidly as the normally docile pet attempts to bury itself into the mixing bowl.

“Back flying turtle, back!” Sonic exclaims as he continues the crazed shelled creature. “You already had some!”

“It’s actually a tortoise.” A familiar voice says as a certain mare enters the kitchen. “But a lot of ponies make that mistake.”

Sonic sets the plate down and turns to the newly arrived cyan Pegasus. “Well whatever it’s called, it has been bouncing off the walls like Pinkie on a sugar rush!”

Rainbow Dash cringes as the comparison as she begins to trot towards her crazed pet. “Yeesh, that bad?” The blue hedgehog nods. “Why didn’t you say so sooner?”

The blue hedgehog opens his mouth to respond, but is silenced by a blue wing. “Relax bud,
I got this.”

Using her other wing, Dash flicks a piece of toast from the table towards the flying tortoise. Tank catches the piece in its mouth and buzzes away happily to another room. Sonic seems a bit shaken by the act and gives the mare an odd look; who only smirks in response.

“Fluttershy taught me that trick.” Dash boasts as she continues her cocky expression.

“Whatever you say, Dash.” Sonic responds as he shakes his head. “I don’t think I’ve seen him react like that before.”

The mare shrugs as she takes a seat near the table. “Just don’t give him sugar and you won’t have to worry about it.” Rainbow Dash begins drooling again as she eyes the spread laid out on the table. “You made all this?”

“Yep, since it was my turn to cook.” Sonic boasts as he tosses a spatula into the air and catches it. “I figured, I’d try something different.”

Before the mare sits several plates of food on her kitchen table; a massive stack of pancakes take up most of it as they tower over the rest, while a sizable plate of scrambled eggs sits next to it, with a small one of toast is next to that. With a small one of what appears to hay bacon sits off to the side; as if placed on the table as an afterthought.

“That is so cool….I mean it’s alright.” Dash mutters out as she snubs her nose at the spread and turns away. “I guess.”

Sonic frowns as the mare’s response. “Don’t tell me you’re still mad about that.” He takes a seat at the table and begins to dish himself up a plate. “You’re blowing this way out of proportion, Dash.”

“Am I?”

***

-Earlier that evening

Sonic and Luna awaken while both in the confines of the hedgehog’s cloud bed. The lunar princess lets out a small yawn as she turns to her bed mate still within her grasp. The blue hedgehog returns the gesture as he cranks his neck upwards and looks at the moon goddess; who currently has him in a warm embrace.

“I didn’t take you for a cuddler, Lulu.” Sonic jokes as he gives the princess a cocky smirk. “I guess you really can’t judge a book by its cover.”

Luna nods as she gives the hedgehog a smirk of her own. “Neither did we, we’ve only shared a bed with sister till now. She’s never alluded to this particular habit. Though we also agree, one shouldn’t unless they wish to be void of a new experience. For example,” The princess begins as she runs a wing across the blue hedgehog’s back. “One would think these would be sharp and ridged, but it turns out they’re rather soft.”

The hedgehog scoffs as the comment. “Only when not going high speeds, Lulu.”

The moon princess’s playful expression suddenly turns serious. “But on to more pressing matters. We’ve both come to the same conclusion regarding the recent turn of events; regarding the current state of the dreamscape.”

“I was just taking a shot in the dark.” Sonic says with a shrug. “Honestly, I don’t know the rules of that place. So I was just kind of taking a guess.”

“Still, it was more than what sister came up with. She tried to pass it off as a-”

Luna is cut off as a bright flash of light suddenly appearing; consuming the entire room in a blinding light. Sonic ducks behind the alicorn; in an attempt to avoid being blinded. While Luna shields her eyes with an out stretched wing.

As the two turns towards the new arrival, a very distraught sun princess stands in the place the light once was. Void of any of her royal regatta. Celestia flairs out her wings as she turns her gaze the two before her.

“So, this is where you-OH MY FAUST! WHAT IN THE NAME ARE TARTARUS ARE YOU DOING?!”

The sun princess stares as the younger alicorn with a gaped expression. Her sister, the co-ruler of Equestria is currently in a very compromising position with her newest friend and ally; Sonic.

“Sister, it’s not what it looks like,” Luna begins as she gives the elder alicorn a sheepish grin. “There’s actually a logical explanation.”

Celestia raises an eyebrow at the younger alicorn’s plea. “Then enlighten me, dear sister.”

As Luna opens he mouth to explain, the bedroom door burst open; revealing a very annoyed Dash.

“What the buck is going…on!” The mare gulps. “…ah crap.”

Before the mare are the two rules of Equestria, one of which is currently hugging a certain blue hedgehog in fright. As the elder of the two is standing over her. Realizing the position she’s in, Dash instantly drops her harsh tone and bows before the alicorns.

“Rise Miss Dash,” The sun princess begins with a warm smile. “This is your home and we are guests. You don’t have to bow to us.”

The cyan mare reluctantly returns to a standing position and turns her attention back to the princesses. “Ok, as uh as I was saying. What’s going on here?” The Pegasus turns away and scratches the back of her head with a hoof. “I mean if it’s cool that I ask that is.”

Celestia smiles warmly at the nervous Rainbow Dash. “I was just about to learn of that myself.” She turns to her younger sister; still maintaining her calm expression. “You were about to tell me, why you and Sonic are currently sharing a bed at this hour.”

Luna gulps at the ‘request.’ As she knew full well that is was anything but. As her sister was trying to save face by acting calm and was actually ready to snap at any given moment.

“Well you see…” The moon princess begins.

“I was having a nightmare.” A familiar voice jumps in; much to everyone’s surprise. “Lulu was just trying to help.” Sonic adds as he looks up at the two shocked mares.

The solar goddess frowns. “Well that still doesn’t explain why she’s here in the physical form, rather than…”

“It helps to have someone nearby as I ride them out.” The hedgehog turns away in mock embarrassment. “Just ask Twilight.”

Celestia sighs as she places a hoof on her forehead and massages the bridge of her muzzle. “I respect you’re admirable attempts, Sonic. But I know for a fact, that’s not why my sister is here.”

Sonic holds up his hands in defeat. “Alright Sunny, you caught me.” He turns to Luna, who nods for him to continue. “The real reason is…”

***

“I can’t believe you tried to say the princess was your big life-like fluffy pillow.” Rainbow Dash mocks as she takes a bite of her pancake. “I mean, seriously. You couldn’t think of anything else.”

Sonic shrugs in response and takes a drink from his glass of juice. “Hey give me a break; it was all I could think of at the time.” He grins at the mare. “Besides, if I didn’t know better, I’d say your jealous.”

Rainbow Dash starts to cough as she almost chokes on her food. “Pfft me jealous,” She gives the hedgehog a dismissive wave. “As if,”

A serious of loud knocks cuts the two off and stops all further debate on the matter. Sonic wipes his hands on a napkin as he rises to his feet.

“Whatever you say, Skittles.” Sonic says with a chuckle. “It’s as plain as the nose on your face.”

“Yeah, whatever,” Rainbow Dash turns away in an attempt to hide her blushing face. “You gonna just stand there or you gonna get the door?”

Sonic just throws his hands into the air and walks way.

***

Standing atop a massive cloud sits a creature that despite its scary appearance is rather laid back. Even though they possesses several appendages that many would consider dangerous, this individual would rather not resort to using them; unless left with no other choice.

Despite being a well know species, few would take the time to get to know this individual resting on the mass of water vapor. Not out of disrespect, but out of ignorance. Since many ‘think’ they already know who this is; believing that they are same individual that they’ve always been; With even fewer even knowing their name and instead refer to them as ‘them’ or ‘her’.

Had they take the time to asked, they’d know that…

“Gilda, what are you doing here?” A surprised Sonic asks as he opens the brightly colored door.

The griffin chuckles at the question and cranks her head downwards. “I should be asking you the same thing. When did you two shack up?”

“Shack up? What are you-”

A set of frantic hoof steps cuts the two off and prompt them to turn towards the source; standing at the bottom of the stairs is a certain cyan mare.

“Hey Sonic whose at the,” Dash winces in pain as she rubs her injured leg with a wing and then look up at the new arrival. “G-Gilda!”

The griffin let out an amused snort at the mare’s appearance. “A disheveled mane, with a noticeable limp,” Gilda grins and crosses her arms. “Somepony had a fun night.”

***

“C’ mon.”

“No.”

“Please.”

“No!”

“Won’t ya at least…”

A certain apple bucking mare slams her hooves on the kitchen table in an act of frustration; silencing the young filly and rattling the dishes that sit upon it.

“Dang it Apple Bloom, ah already said no!” Applejack closes her eyes and takes a few deeps breaths before continuing. “Ah don’t know why yer so set on this. It’ ain’t gonna happen.”

“Well ah don’t know about that,” An elderly voice pipes in as the young filly silently picks at the food on her plate. “There’s still a chance that it could.”

Applejack grimaces as the elderly mare. “Not you too, granny. Don’t tell me yer the one puttin’ those ideas in her head.”

Granny Smith shakes her head and takes a bite of her food before continuing. “That’s all young Apple Bloom’s. Ah merely just listened to what she hada’ say and ah’d have to agree.”

The wheat colored mare gowns as she places her hat over her face. “And why is that?”

“Well, from what I’ve seen and heard from Apple Bloom here.” She motions to the young filly; who perk up at the mention of her name. “He’s a strappin’ young stallion whose been nothin’ but kind to ya. He’s helped us out of the farm more times than ah can count, and it’s thanks to him that we’ll be havin’ a record turn over this year.”

“Yes but…”

“Let me finish.” The elder mare demands before continuing. “Plus ah’ve seen the way you look at him. The way yer face lights up when ya talk to him or how ya act when he’s around.” Granny Smiths expression goes serious. “Plus, yer not getting any younger, Applejack. Before you know it ya’ll be as old as me and wonder why ya didn’t find yourself somepony. Don’t let this one slip way like ya did with that one from Manehatten.”

Applejack lets out another groan before flipping her hat back on to her head. “Ah can’t believe ah’m having his conversation. “

The young filly springs up to comment, but cuts herself off as a certain red stallion steps into the kitchen.

“Mornin’” Big Macintosh mutters out as he pours himself a cup of coffee.

The elder mare and filly returns the greeting, while Applejack turns towards her older brother.

“Mac back me up on this,” The mare motions towards the other two at the table. “Those two are tryin’ to play match maker with me and…”

“Eeenope!”

Applejack’s ears fold back at the quick rejection. “C’ mon Big Mac, those two have been at it all mornin’ and could really use some support on this.”

The stallion lets out heavy sigh and slams his cup of coffee. “Fine,” He refills his cup and turns to the three mares. “As much as ah don’t agree with your methods, Ah’d have to agree with Granny and Apple Bloom.”

“What?”

Big Mac takes a long drink from his cup and turns to his sister. “Now ah’m not saying ya have to go to some fancy restaurant or anything. Just spend a little time with him and see if anything clicks.” The stallion turns to the elder mare and his youngest sister. “Just do somethin’, or else these two won’t quit.”

Applejack raises an eyebrow at the last part of her brother’s comment. “Were ya listen’ to us?”

“All bucking morning,” The stallion grumbles as he finishes his cup of coffee. “Ah’ve had to listen to you three go at it since before the sun came up.”

The three mares slouch in their chairs as the red stallion’s outburst. Apple Bloom opens her mouth to apologize, but it cut off by a sudden tapping from the other side of the screen door.

“Yo AB, you ready? We gotta go.” A familiar voice calls from the door.

Apple Bloom glances at the clock and leaps out if her chair. “Yeah, just let me grab my bag.” She turns to her older sister and gives her a big grin. ”Don’t forget to ask next time you see him.”

The mare’s grin vanishes as she dodges a piece of incoming toast.

“Go on, git!”

***

“It’s not what it looks like, I swear!” A cyan mare shouts as she waves her forelegs in front of her face. “I just woke up…a-and ran into the table on the way down.”

Gilda rolls her eyes. “Whatever you say, Dash.” She then turns to Sonic. “So tell me, did you guys get any sleep last night?”

The blue hedgehog lets an amused chuckle and crosses his arms behind his head. “Get your mind out of the gutter, Gilda.” He turns around and begins making his way towards the stairs. “If you can do that; Come on up, I just made breakfast.”

Rainbow Dash watches Sonic as he disappears from sight, before turning back to the griffin and giving her a glare. “Really Gilda, that’s what you thought?” She ruffled her wings a bit. “C’mon girl.”

With a dismissive shrug, Gilda glances around the room. “What did you expect? I swing by to see what’s up and…” She points to the empty staircase. “’He’ answers the door.”

“I dunno, but did you really have to say all that?” The mare frowns. “It’s hard enough as it is without you adding your two bits.”

Gilda holds up her talons before responding. “So hold on, you two aren’t…”

Rainbow Dash shakes her head. “Nope,”

“Nor have you two...”

“Gah, buck no!”

“How long has he been saying here?”

“Almost a month now.”

Gilda crosses her he arms. “You like him don’t you?”

“Yeah…I do.” Rainbow Dash looks away, in an attempt to avoid eye contact.

The griffin let out a low growl and flairs out her wings in response. “Then what is the buckin’ problem?”

***

As the rays of the morning sun shine down upon the world below, one small beam passes by the thick foliage and right into a certain dragons face.

Spike lets out a groan as he turns away from the invader of his slumber; only to snap awake when he hears the bustling town around him. With a heavy sigh the dragon flings off his covers and rises from his bed. As Spike makes his way down stairs, he spots a certain lilac cat sitting in one of a bean bag chair; reading a book in one hand and channeling a green flame in the next.

As the stairs creek under the dragon’s weight, Blaze looks up from her book and gives Spike a smirk.

“The day has already begun and you are only just getting up now?”

Spike turns away and scratches the back of his head. “Yeah, I got to sleep in for once. Guess I overdid it a bit.”
“Indeed.” The cat replies as he turns back to her book. “Twilight may go back to waking you up when she does, if you keep sleeping this late.”

The dragon shudders at the thought. “No way, I only just got used to waking up without having to be shaken every morning.”

Blaze says nothing a she turns a page in her book. Spike glances at the green flame the cat is casting with a perplexed look.

“Wha’cha doing?”

“Summoning dragon fire-” The guardian says flatly as she frowns at something in the book. “-or at least trying to.”

Spike looks down at his hands and twiddles with his claws. “Anything I can do to help. I mean I’m the expert on this.”

“Explain how to use the transportation flame.” Blaze looks up from her book. “I can’t seem to make heads or tails of this.”

The dragon gives the cat a smug look. “Oh, that’s easy. Just picture where you want the item to go and it will…”

Spike is cut off as Blaze ignites something with her pyro kinesis and watches as it turns into ash and blows away.

“Who’d you send that-”A loud yelp from the other room cuts the dragon off. “Never mind,”

Blaze ceases casting the green flame as she sets the book down. Letting out a sigh, she scowls in the direction the sound came from.

“It would appear Miss Sparkle is still in her study.” She rubs the bridge of her nose. “How many days has it been?”

Spike lets out a heavy sigh. “More like weeks, she’s only come out to use the restroom or maybe get something to eat.” The dragon motions to a stack of empty plates and cuts sitting by the door. “But that’s only once in a while.”

The lilac cat marks her page and closes her book. And then rises from her chair. “I’ll go talk to her. “

“I doubt she’ll let you in.” The purple dragon states as he begins to gather the discarded dishes and plates. “She’s been like that since…”

Blaze lets out a sigh. “I am aware of that.”

Stepping past Spike as he carries the dishes to the sink; the sol guardian stops before the door of the lavender mare’s study and gives it a few hard knocks.

“I’m busy, can it wait till later.” A voice replies from the other side of the door.

The cat frowns at dismissive comment. “Open the door, Twilight. I need to speak with you.”

“About what?” The voice asks, with a hint of concern.

“Just let me in.”

Next Chapter Preview:

Twilight: “Well this was unexpected.”

Pinkie: “Oh boy this is going to be so much, fun, fun, fun!”

Rainbow Dash: “Wha’cha talking about Gilda?”

Sonic: “Do I want to know what this is about?”

Next time:

Sparkle, Sparkle

Sparkle Sparkle

-10 minutes prior

“So, if you combine the positive vibes with the happy ones…”

“Twilight,”

“…you get a greater reaction then just using either of…”

“TWILIGHT!”

The lavender mare breaks from her tangent and turns towards the source of the sudden outbursts.

“Y-you were saying something?”

A semi-transparent projection in the Princess of Love; cast in Twilight’s magic, shakes her head and lets out an amused chuckle.

“I merely asked how you were doing,” Cadence says the projection steps closer. “Not the elements of a good cheer. You silly filly.

Twilight forces a laugh at the princess’s comment. “Yeah, I guess I got a little side tracked there.” She stands in a regal pose. “You were saying.”

The projection of Cadence let out an amused snort. “C’mon Twilight, this isn’t official royal business; Just a friendly chat. No need to stand like that.”

Letting out a sigh and flipper her ears back, Twilight relaxes her pose and looks away. “Sorry about that. I just have had a lot on my mind recently.”

Taking notice of an obvious plight, the princess of love steers the conversation toward something else.
“I still can’t get over how well this crystal communication thing you came up with works. It’s like I’m talking right to you, but…” She trails off as her projected hoof phases through Twilight as she moves it back and forth. “…also not at the same time.”

Twilight glances at her semi charged horn. “I’m a little surprised myself. I didn’t think it could reach that far.” She turns back towards the projection of her former fowl sitter. “I’ve only done short range until now.”

“With a little bit of work, anypony could use this.” Cadence says as she paces back and forth. “How did you come up with this?”

The mare smirks smugly at the question. “Well, you only need a large burst of magic to open the channel and then it just requires a constant stream of it going to keep it open.”

Cadence waves her projected hoof back and forth. “No, that’s not what I meant. I mean how did you know that the signal would reach this far. You did just say you’ve only done short range till now.”

Twilight blushes several shades of crimson before answering as a big smile appears on her face.

A loud pop burst between the two. Both mares let out a shriek as something falls to the floor and rolls to under a nearby chair.

“W-what was that?”

Twilight glances at the invader of her conversation. “It’s just a scroll; I’ll get it in a sec.”

Cadence nods in agreement and smiles back at Twilight before continuing. “Anyways, you were saying?”

Twilight sheepishly smiles as her blush returns in full force. “Sonic actually came up with the idea. If it weren’t for him I’d still be trying to get Fluttershy at her cottage.”

The princess of love tilts her head to side in response to the mare’s comment. “So you’re telling me a being from another world. With no magical abilities; other than what you mention he gets from those emeralds. Was able to figure out an advanced magical array and improve it?” Cadence shakes her head in disbelief. “I know he’s smart, but how did he mange something like that?”

Twilight chuckles a bit at the question. “He suggested that I use more than one crystal to amplify and direct the signal. Something about it being concentrated if channeled between more than one of point.” The mare grins and looks way. “He even helped me set it up.”

“Oh, he’s a keeper.” Cadence chirps. “You better get your hooves on him before somepony else does.”

“CADENCE!” Twilight snaps as her face goes completely red. “It’s not like that…at least now.”

The princess gives the unicorn an all knowing smirk. “You don’t need to be the princess of love, to see that you have a thing for him.” She grins. “Have you told Sonic how you feel?”

Twilight turns her attention towards the floor and lets out a heavy sigh. “Yes, I have, but…”

Cadence holds a hoof to her mouth in shock. “But he didn’t feel the same way? Twilight, I’m so sorry that he didn’t…”

“No, that’s not it.” The lavender mare says as she cuts the princess off. “He didn’t even get a chance to answer before...before.” Tears start to run down Twilight’s face as she attempts to hold back a sob.

The projection of the princess steps closer. “’Before’ what?”

“BEFORE I DENIED EVERYTHING AND KICKED HIM OUT!”

“WHAT!”

“I-I was put on the spot by everypony.” Twilight grits her teeth as she tries and fails to hold back the rush of tears. “So I panicked and said there was nothing between us.”

Cadence starts to breathe heavily through grit teeth, the princess attempt to collect herself. “Twilight dear, HOW THE BUCK CAN YOU BE SO SELFISH AND CRUEL?!”

The mare snaps to attention at the outburst, but says nothing as the princess continues.

“YOU PLAYED WITH ANOTHER HEART FOR WHAT…MONTHS!? ONLY TO STOMP ON IT WHEN IT WAS NO LONGER CONVIENT!” Cadence takes a breath in an attempt to calm herself. “You don’t do that Twilight, you just don’t”

“But-”

“Let me finish!” The princess snaps. “I saw pain in those eyes, Twilight. Pain that would crush most ponies, but not him.” Cadence plops down on her haunches and gives the mare a sad look. “Do you have any idea what you’ve done?”

Twilight opens her mouth to speak, but is cut off by a loud banging on the room’s door.

“I’m kind of busy, can it wait till later?” The mare says still facing the projection of Cadence.

“Open the door, Twilight. I need to speak with you.” A familiar feline says from the other side of the door.”

Twilight breaks her gaze and turns toward the door. “About what?”

“Just open the door.”

Giving the princess an apologetic look as gives her a ‘one second’ motion. Twilight uses her magic to open the door allowing Blaze to step into the room.

“I know you have your reasons.” Blaze says with a stern look. “But you can’t keep yourself locked way hoping things get better.”

Cadence loudly clears her throat gaining everyone’s attention.

The lilac cat turns towards the noise and gives the projection a confused look. “Oh, hello.”

***

Cadence stands before a projection of Twilight and the recent arrival. Cast the color of her own magic. While sitting in her person chambers. The princess frowns at the purple cat as she interrupts her conversation.

“Who’s this?” Cadence demands as she motions to the feline with her hoof. “I don’t think we’ve met before.”

The projection of Blaze bows slightly to the princess. “My apologies, I did not mean to interrupt your conversation.”

Cadence waves off the motion with an extended hoof. “It’s quite alright, Miss…uh.”

“Blaze the Cat; guardian and ruler of the Sol Dimension.”

“So, you’re a princess?” Cadence quips as she scratches her chin with a hoof.

“Something like that, yes.” The lilac cat says as she returns to a standing position. “And you are?”

The alicorn takes a regal pose. “Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, but you can just call me Cadence.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“Like-wise.”

Twilight silently watches as Cadence and Blaze continue their conversation with one another. The mare opens her mouth to speak, but is cut off as the princess of love steps forward.

“As much as I enjoyed our little chat; I must ask what you needed to speak with Twilight about.”

Blaze takes a deep breath. “I wish to speak with her regarding a personal matter.”

“Oh and what would that be?” The Alicorn inquires as she gives the feline an inquisitive look. “I bet it has something do with why you’re standing before me and not Sonic.”

“Out of respect for Miss Sparkle’s privacy; I will not confirm or deny that claim.”

Cadence nods at Blaze’s projection. “I can respect that, though I would like to know if it has anything to do with Twilight current duress.”

“That is not my place to say.” Blaze states in a neutral tone.

The princess nods. “Fair enough, I won’t keep you.” She turns to Twilight. “We’ll talk later. Alright?”

“Yeah sure,” Twilight says with a weak smile.

Cadence turns back towards the lilac cat. “It was a pleasure to meet you, Miss Blaze. Hopefully next time we chat, it will be face to face.”

“Let us hope.”

With a wave of her hoof, the princess powers down the spell and watches as the projections fade into nothingness.

Cadence lets out a heavy sigh as she keeps her sights fixed on the spot the faux two just stood. “Maybe you can do what I can’t.”

***

Twilight and Blaze watch as the projection of the alicorns fades away. As the image of Cadence disappears, the lavender mare lets out a heavy sigh and turns towards the lilac cat.

“Thanks, Blaze.”

The cat smiles in response. “Don’t mention it, Twilight.” Her expression then goes serious. “But I must apologize.”

Twilight tilts her head to the side. “Apologize for-HEY!”

Blaze abruptly scoops Twilight up in arms and begins carrying her out of the room.

“Wow, Sonic was right. You ponies are really light.” Blaze comments in shear disbelief.

Twilight narrows her eyes. “That’s because I’m using a gravity spell, so you don’t drop me.” She motions to her now lit horn.” NOW PUT ME DOWN!”

Blaze shits the mare in her arms and begins to descend a long stair case. “I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

“W-why not?” Twilight exclaims.

“Because if I do, you’ll go back in that room and refuse to come out.”

“Well, then I’ll stop using the gravity spell and see how-Whoa!”

The lilac cat begins to struggle as she attempt to keep hold of the mare. Twilight herself shift towards the ground.

“T-turn it back on! Turn it back on!” Blaze demands as she starts to lose her grip. “Or you’re going to take a spill down these steps.”

Twilight reactivates the spell, just before the cat loses her hold and drops her down the wooden steps.

“Phew.”

“That was a close one.”

“Indeed.”

The mare shifts within the confines of the cat’s grip. “Has it really gotten that bad?”

“Yep.” Blaze says flatly.

“So what did you want to talk to me about?”

The feline says nothing as she walks off the last step and approaches the front door.”

“Blaze?”

“Without decisive action, one can’t expect results.” The lilac cat says to no one in particular as she walks past the large unicorn bust. “I was hoping it wouldn’t have come to this.”

“W-why are you doing this? Twilight pleads. “I thought we were friends.”

“The reason that we’re friends is why I’m doing this. Spike!”

The small dragon zips past the two and opens the library’s double door.

Twilight gives the young drake a cold stare as she’s carried past him; while he draws his attention towards the floor.

Blaze releases her hold on the mare and sets her down on her hooves. “That was a little harder than I thought it would be.” The feline laments as she rubs her left shoulder.

“So, you brought me outside.” Twilight begins with an irritated tone. “What was the point?”

The lilac cat kneels down, so she’s eyes level with the lavender mare. “You are going go out there and ‘fix’ this problem you’ve been hiding from.”

“And what if I refuse and go back inside?” Twilight retorts.

“Then, I will ‘refuse’ to continue our training.” Blaze says with finger quotes.

“B-but you can’t do that!” The mare whines. “We’ve only just started.”

“I can and will if you don’t go out there and at least ‘try’ to get to the bottom of this thing you’ve been hiding from.”

Twilight ears droop as she lowers herself closer to the ground. “What if Sonic doesn’t want to talk to me?” She turns to the lilac cat. “What if he just tells me to go way?”

Blaze blinks at the mare’s question; as if not prepared for it. But then shifts back to her former scowl. “Then make him listen! Talk to him; get to the bottom of what’s been bothering you. And if he still refuses, ‘I’ll’ make him listen!”

“B-but.” Twilight says hesitantly.

The stoic expression leaves the felines face and it replace with a concerned one. “Twilight, everyone is worried about you. Sonic is worried about you. You’ve been held up in that room for almost a month.”

Twilight gives Blaze a small smile. “Thanks Blaze,” She glances at the entry if the library and then turns back towards the lilac cat. “I guess I just needed a little push.”

“Go!” Blaze commands as her bottom lip quivers. “Before lest you lose your resolve.”

The mare nods and makes a break towards town; only to glance back and see a disheveled Blaze slowly closing the library’s door.

***

As the large wooden door shuts and its locks are bolted. Spike emerges from the other room and approaches the spot the nerdy unicorn once stood.
“I can’t believe that actually worked.” He glances up at Blaze; who’s still standing by the door. “Hey, you alright?”

The cat’s shoulders slump as she digs her claws onto the doors wooden frame. The young drake takes notice of this and approaches the Sol Guardian.

“Blaze?”

Turning towards the dragon, the lilac cat stares back at him as tears falls from her face. “W-what do you want?” She whimpers; trying to wipe away the moisture from her face.

Spike takes a step back. “I-I just wanted to say…uh good job helping Twilight and…”

The young drake is cut off as the crying feline stomps past him. “Blaze!”

“Leave me alone!” The lilac cat demands as she makes her way towards the steps; only to stop as she’s about to ascend them. “Tell no one of what you just saw, Spike.”

The dragon gulps at the cat’s icy demand. “Y-yeah s-sure, no problem.”

Spike watches as Blaze disappears from sight with a confused look on his face. “Well that was unexpected. What’s got her so upset?” The young dragon scratches his chin in thought.

“Wait, does she like…” The drake is cut off as he lets out a loud belch along with a small puff if green fire. A black scroll appears within the flame and hovers in the air for a few moments before falling to towards the floor.

Spike catches the scroll before it can hit the floor and examines it. A dark blue ribbon bounds the item with a familiar seal securing it.

“What would Luna need from Twilight?”

***

As Celestia’s sun hangs overhead, the small town bustles with activity. Vendors cry out to any passerby to checkout their wares. While others trot by with carts filled with various items; heading to various destinations. As some scurry about the various shops, or converse at one of the various benches dotting the small down.

A certain blue hedgehog speaks with a particular red maned florist as he examines a blue rose.

“So, this is white rose that you’ve turned blue? Sonic inquires as he holds the flower above his head.

“That’s right.” Rose Luck says with warm smile. “A little tricked I picked up a while back.”

“And what would that be?” The hedgehog asks as he turns to the mare.

“Trade Secret.” Rose Luck says in a firm tone.

“But it has no thorns.”

“Trade Secret.”

Sonic shrugs and turns back towards the flower. “Fair enough, wouldn’t want to lose your holdings on this certain flower.”

“It’s nothing personal, dear.” The mare says with a worried tone.

The hedgehog gives the reply a dismissive way with his free hand. “I didn’t take it that way. Don’t worry about it.”

Rose Luck smiles warmly at the hedgehog and opens her mouth to comment, but is cut off by the approach of frantic hoof falls. Turning towards the source of the noise, the mare spots a certain librarian approaching them.

“Good morning, Twilight.” The mare greets with a warm smile. “What can I do for you today?”

“Sup, Twi?” Sonic adds as he looks away from the blue rose.

Twilight stops a few paces from the flower stand and smiles and the cream colored mare. “Morning Rose, I’m just here to see Sonic.” She turns to the blue hedgehog. “You got a minute?”

“Sure let me just…” Sonic glances at the blue rose still clenched in his right hand and turns to florist. “Hey Rosie, how much is one of these?”

Rose Luck turns to the lavender mare and then back towards the blue hedgehog with a smirk. “This one’s on me, handsome.”

Sonic raises an eyebrow at his new nickname, but then shrugs it off and kneels down in front of Twilight and tucks it right above her right ear.

“There,” The hedgehog says with a satisfied smirk. “I knew blue would look good on you.”

Sonic’s eyes widen in realization of what he just said, while Rose Luck chuckles behind a hoof.

“Wait…”

Twilight looks way and blushes at the gesture; and then more so at the comment. “It’s ok, I knew what you meant.” The mare turns back towards the hedgehog. “So you still want to uh…” She motioned with a jerk of her head.

“Oh, yeah sure.”

The mare smiles in response. “Permission to teleport?”

Sonic nods and it instantly engulfed in the unicorns magic and disappears alone with Twilight.

Rose Luck stares at the spot the two once stood and lets out an amused chuckle. “Go get him.”

***

High above the skies of Ponyville a certain cyan mare and griffon sit at a large wooden table. Rainbow Dash buries her face into her hooves as she lets out a loud groan. While Gilda shifts uncomfortably in her seat.

“You just had to go there, didn’t you?” Rainbow Dash asks with an annoyed groan. “You couldn’t just leave well enough alone?”

Gilda glares at the mare and crosses her arms. “Hey don’t blame me. How was I supposed to know that he’d take it the wrong way.”

“How was he not supposed to?” Dash begins as she looks up from her hooves and then lets out a grown. “Never mind, what’s done is done.”

“Maybe we should head into town and see if we can find him. You know try to clear up this little ‘misunderstanding.’”

***

-A few moments prior

Gilda and Dash enter the kitchen of the cyan pegasus’ cloud home and spot a certain blue hedgehog digging into a large stack of pancakes at the breakfast table. Sonic waves to the new arrivals.

“Bout time you came up.” He pours some syrup on his stack of pancakes. “What took so long?”

“Well you see…” Gilda begins, but is cut off Dash.

“Nothing just uh…..girl stuff. Yeah that. You know, uh…Gilda can you help me out here?” The mare turns to her feathered friend with a pleading look.

The griffin holds up her talons in defense. “Hey, don’t drag me into this.” The cyan mare frowns at her in response; prompting a sigh from Gilda. “Fine. Dash here was asking me about what’s in fashion and if anything is in the up and up around Cloudsdale.” Rainbow Dash’s frown shifts to a scowl. “Yeah and Dash was wondering if you’d like to show clothes shopping with her and…”

“I think he gets the point.” Rainbow Dash interjects.

Sonic cuts another piece from his stack of pancakes and takes a bite. “You two are pretty bad liars.” The hedgehog states as he goes for another bite. “If it none of my business; fine. But what’s with all the deception if it is?”

Gilda nervously scratches the back of her head with a talon. “Actually it kind of is and it kind of isn’t. You see I was passing though and…”

The clank of metal fork striking a plate cuts the griffon off. Sonic slowly looks up from his plate and gives her a blank stare.

“Gilda I’m flattered, but you’re not my type.” He grins. “Besides didn’t we already go over how I don’t meet the specs of Gilda’s Wild Ride.”

The griffon opens and closes her beak several times; trying to form a response as her face turns a deep shade of crimson.

“W-what? No. I was here to see Dash.”

Sonic smirks at the response and returns to his breakfast. “Dash huh,” He turns to the cyan mare. “I thought you were straight, Skittles.”

“I am!” Rainbow Dash retorts. “I mean there was that one time in flight school, but…” The mare trails off; realizing what she just said.

The hedgehog leans closer. “Go on.”

Before Rainbow Dash can give a response, something strikes Sonic in the head and knocks him off the chair.
***

Dash chuckles at the suggestion. “’Little misunderstanding’ it was anything but ‘little.”

Gilda lets out a grown and face palms.

***

A burst of pink magic suddenly appears in a vast meadow along a large oak tree. Followed by an abrupt pop a certain lavender mare and hedgehog emerge from the light. Sonic stumbles backwards as he falls into the tall grass. While Twilight snaps her head and trots towards the blue hedgehog.

“Oh my gosh, are you alright?”

Sonic gives the mare a slow wave as he remains in the ground. “Oh, I’m just peachy.” He says dryly.

Twilight frowns at the remake and looks down at the fallen hedgehog. “No seriously, are you ok?” She scrunches her muzzled in thought. “By chance, could you be suffering from a bit of vertigo?”

Sonic burst out laughing at the question; prompting Twilight to shift back and forth on her hooves as if concerned with the response.

“No Twilight, it’s not ‘vertigo.’” Sonic says using finger quotes on the last word. “If that was the case I would been up the preverbal creek a long time ago.”

“Oh right.” Twilight says as she taps her hooves together. “So what is it then?”

The blue hedgehog ponders the question for a moment. “Not sure, maybe it was the fact that I was thrown halfway across town and then abruptly stopped.” Sonic scratches the side of his head as he sit up. “Or maybe it was something else.”

“But if that’s the case, then why doesn’t the same thing happen when you teleport with the emeralds?” Twilight’s face light up. “Maybe there’s a power balance, or possibly something to do with the natural energy you possess, or…”

Sonic bops the bops the mare on the nose to get her attention. “We can discuss your scientific ‘theories’ later. Didn’t you need to talk to me about something?”

Twilight’s ears drooped. “Right, right, got a little sidetracked there didn’t I?” She levitates Sonic back to his feet. “I did actually want to talk to you about something.”

The blue hedgehog begins to dusts himself off. “It’s cool.” He gives the mare one of his trademark smiles. “What’s on your mind, Twilight?”

Twilight blushes at the gesture and looks way. “I’ve been thinking…a lot actually.”

“Uh oh.”

The mare snaps towards the blue hedgehog and scowls at him for a moment; before her expression shifts back into a smile.

“Anyway, I’ve been giving this a lot of thought and I wanted to apologize to you.”

Sonic raises an eyebrow at the mare’s plea and crosses his arms. “For what?”

“For…” Twilight clenches her teeth and takes a few deep breaths. “For everything that has happened between us…for what has resulted because of in it.” She looks at the ground. “For what I’ve done to you personally.”

“Twilight we already…” The blue hedgehog is cut off as the mare shoots him a stern look; prompting him to hold up his hands in defeat and motion for her to continue.

“As I was saying…” Twilight takes a deep breath. “I’ve been giving this a lot of thought and I know you probably hate me now, but I just wanted to say.” She takes another deep breath. “That despite how I’ve acted. I-I still care about you Sonic. I never stopped. I know I have an odd way of showing it, but…”

Sonic gently lifts Twilight’s head to meet his gaze. ”Relax Twilight; we’ve already been over this.” He frowns. “Why would you think I’d be mad?”

“Because I kicked you out and lied to everypony.” Twilight looks away. “Who wouldn’t after that?”

The blue hedgehog lets out an amused chuckle before placing his hands on the mare’s shoulders; prompted her to turn back towards him and blush severely.

“You helped a friend of mine and gave them a place to stay; despite only having my word that they were trustworthy.”

Twilight lets out a nervous laugh and scratches the back of her head. “Actually that’s not entirely true.” Sonic tilts his head to the side, but says nothing and motions for her to continue. “See, I uh kind of already knew about Blaze a bit before she came here. Thanks to the uh…”

“Oh, right.” Sonic drones with a less than amused tone. “I forgot about that.” He releases his hold and lets his hands fall to the side. “So, how much do you ‘know’ about Blaze? Prior to her arrival?”

The mare fixes her gaze and takes a slight breath before answering. “Well I know that you became friends during some time space distortion that caused your two worlds to merge for a brief time.”

Sonic chuckles and runs a hand through his quills. “Yeah, that was an interesting weekend.”

Twilight raises an eyebrow at the response, but lets it pass and continues. “That you two teamed up again when you ended up her world and help her save it from some…creature named Nega.”

“Ok, that’s…something. What else?”

The mare scratches her chin with a hoof and she ponders for a moment, before recalling something else. “Oh, and that you two vowed to meet again. Despite being worlds apart and…” Twilight trails off as her recollection starts to fade.

Sonic lets out a sigh and messages the bridge of his nose. “So, everything is starting to make sense to you now? Or is still jumbled mess like before?”

“A little bit of both.” Twilight admits with a small sigh. “Though, it’s a lot better than it was before.”

“Well that’s good…I guess.” The hedgehog states dryly as he turns away. “Everything is just coming out swimmingly.”

Twilight notices the annoyance in Sonic’s voice and places a hoof in his shoulder to get his attention. “You know, I’ve made it clear that this is a two way street. Anything you want to ask. I’ll gladly tell you. You know that right?”

Sonic turns towards the mare and cross his arms. “Yeah Twilight, I’m aware.” He grins and gives her a wink. “But what would be the fun in that?”

***

Busy at work, a certain party pony removes an assortment of pastries from a large oven and sets them on top of a metal rack. Spitting out the rag I her moth to prevent burning herself, the pink mare glances at the now full rolling rack and grins.

“Mr. and Mrs. Cake will be so thrilled that I got an early start this morning. they should easily be able to handle the rush n-now.”

The mare is cut off as a violent jolt shakes her every entire body; causing her rear legs to lock up while her front give out and forces Pinkie to face plant the floor. A few minutes pass before the party pony blows a flock of hair out her eyes and returns to a standing position.

“Phew! That was a doozy.” She looks around. “I haven’t had one of those in a while. I wonder what it’s gonna be this time.”

***
In a familiar meadow a certain apple buckin’ mare trots towards a massive tree. Upon seeing the tall-tell silhouette of a certain nerdy librarian; the earth pony’s movements shifts into a full gallop. Until she spots another familiar shape of a certain hedgehog.

Applejack skids to a stop and does a 180 in the opposite direction.

“Nope, nope, nope.”

***

A certain librarian and blue speedster sit at the base of the massive oak tree. Twilight lets out a relaxed sigh and she rests her head on Sonic’s shoulder. The blue hedgehog chuckles at this, but suddenly frowns as something catches his attention in the distance.

“Did you hear something?”

The lavender mare shits her head and looks up at the blue hedgehog. “I didn’t. What did it sound like?”

Sonic frowns at the answer. “It sounded like someone saying ‘nope’ a bunch of times. Odd.”

“Quite.” Twilight replies as she nuzzles his shoulder. “So anyway, you were saying?”

“Oh, I was just wondering if you Blaze were getting along. She seemed a bit on edge when I last talked to her.”

“Oh I see,” The mare replies with a whimsical tone. “We had heated debate regarding the cataloging system of the books in the library.” She frowns. “She kept going on how something called the dewy decimal system would be more efficient. I said it would take months if not years to adopt such an elaborate method and would actually hinder rather than help.”

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle. “Leave it to Twilight to make a mountain out of a mole hill.” His expression turns serious. “But seriously, is everything ok?”

Twilight hums with slight nod. “Blaze has been a big help around the library. (Other than the book thing) She’s even offered train me how to use pyro kinesis.”

“Cool, I was a bit worried there for a second.”

The mare giggles and re-adjusts her position. “Don’t worry, I got it covered.”

A calming silence hangs between the two. As a soothing breeze sweeps across the tall grass; causing the two to shiver slightly and for Twilight to scoot closer to Sonic.

Mentally kicking herself for breaking the silence, Twilight shifts her gaze back towards Sonic and asks something that’s been on her mind for almost a month.

“So, we’re good right?”

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle before running a hand through Twilight’s mane. “Yeah, were good.”

The mare lets out an adorable *squee* and hugs the unsuspecting hedgehog.

***

Atop a massive collection of clouds a certain griffon and Pegasus look downward at events unfolding in the clearing below them. Gilda cringes at the overly affectionate mare hugging the blue speedster and slowly turns to her cyan friend.

“Dash, I’m sorry I didn’t know that…” The griffon trails off as she spots the speedy Pegasus gritting her teeth in rage and emitting an odd aura. “Uh Dash?”

The cyan mare starts breathing through clenched teeth. “That little hussy,” Dash spits with ill content

“Maybe those two are…” Gilda attempt to interject but is cut off by the enraged Dash.

“No! I know Sonic too well to know that he wouldn’t lead a pony on only to two time them behind their back. Twilight must have ran into him in town and wanted to talk to him about something.” Dash nods with a slightly rage expression. “Yeah, that has to be it.”

***

The door of Golden Oaks Library swing open as very excited Twilight trots in and uses her magic to shut the door. Spike takes notice of the mare’s sudden change in behavior and walks towards her from his reading spot on the other side of the room.

“Well somepony is in a good mood.”

Twilight nods happily. “Yep, In fact I feel a song coming on.”

“Well it’s going to have to wait.” The drake hands the mare the black scroll from earlier. “You got a letter from Luna.”

The mare opens the scroll with her magic and out pops eight black tickets with solver lettering on them.

“It would appear that we’ve been invited to a special event in Canterlot during Nightmare Night.”

“Neat,” Spike quips as climbs onto the unicorn’s back and attempts to take a peek at the scroll.

Twilight rolls her eyes and levitates Spike to the floor and passes him the parchment with her magic.

“So, have you seen Blaze?” the mare asks merrily. “I really have to thank her helping me pull my head out of my flank.”

Spike gestures towards the staircase. “She’s in her room.”

The mare hums cheerfully and heads towards the flight of step, but it stopped by a slight tug on her tail. Turning back she notices that Spike has handful of it in his claws.

“Is there a problem Spike?” Twilight asks inquisitively.

The young dragon opens his mouth to speak, but then suddenly recalls his ‘promise’ to Blaze earlier.

“Spike?” The mare asks again; breaking him from his stupor.

Oh uh nothing, Twilight.” Spike says hesitantly. “Just wanted to say congrats on getting over your slump and going out and such.”

Twilight giggles and gives the dragon a slight nuzzle and walks way. “Silly Spike.

The dragon forces a chuckle as he watches the mare ascend the steps. “Yeah that’s me. Spike the silly dragon.

***

A certain lilac cat sits on a large lawn chair resting on the library’s outdoor seating area. So engrossed in her book, she doesn’t hear Twilight enter, till she closes the door behind her.

“Good day, Miss Twilight. I trust everything went well.”

The mare nods happily. “Yep, better than I expected and I have you to thank.”

Blaze closes her book and sets in on her lap and turns towards the new arrival. “No need to thank me, I’m just helping out a friend.”

Despite knowing Twilight meant no ill will, the words still taste bitter coming from her mouth.

“Still, if it weren’t for you. I would have been in that room worrying myself into frenzy over nothing.”

The cat blinks at the response and tilts her head. “What do you mean?”

Twilight sheepishly smiles. “It turns out I was worried over nothing. Sonic was never mad at me and I just blew everything out of proportion.” She lets out a small laugh. “It’s actually rather silly if you think about it.”

A small smile appears on the guardians face as everything clicks. Twilight wasn’t going to ask Sonic out. She was just worried that she did something wrong to make him hate her. (Something of which he’d never do without good reason.)

“Blaze?”

The cat snaps away from her thought and looks back up at the mare. “Yes, miss Twilight?”

“Ever heard of Nightmare Night?”

Author's Note

As questions are answered, many more are brought to light. What adventures await out heroes and what is busy at work in the background. Find out on the next Chaos in Equestria.

Phew that took a bit longer than usual to write. Sorry, if it ended up being dialog heavy, but I wanted to tie up some lose ends and such. Plus writing mopey Twilight isn't fun.

All characters belong to there respective owners. Let me know what you think in the comments below.

PEACE

Terror Time

Edit: Now edited and with bonus content.

~enjoy

As the sunning sun hangs low in the sky as the days reaches dusk. Sounds of irritated gowns, muffled swears, and frantic hoof steps ‘pomphing’ on the cloud floor; within a certain cyan mare’s home. Said pony stands before a mirror hanging on an adjacent wall and continuously examines herself.

Rather than donning her usual attire of….nothing other than her trademark colorful mane and tail. Rainbow Dash glances at her reflection wearing a tan pith helmet and an olive green vest.
The mare tugs at the vest; attempting to correct any twisting that may have occurred while slipping it on. Letting out another sigh, Dash paces in place as she takes several glances towards the door.

“Where is he?” The mare mutters as she glances as a clock attached to a nearby wall. “Back in a flash my flank.”

Rainbow Dash turns back towards the mirror and adjusts her head ware; while taking another short glance at the clock. “What is taking so--"

The mare it cut off as the sound frantic knocking rattles the bathroom door.

“Yo, Dash, you still in there?” A familiar voice asks from the other side of the door. “Figured you be done by the time I got back.”

“I’m just waiting on you. What took you so long?” Dash mutters as she turns towards the door and then back to her reflection. “What I asked you to get... It kind of ties the whole thing together.”

***

-Five minutes prior:

Ponyville

“You simply must take me with you.” A blue unicorn mare pleads a she approaches the hedgehog.

“No, take me!” Another mare protests as she flaps her crimson wings.

Sonic opens his mouth respond, but is cut off as green female earth pony; dressed as a royal noble. Approaches the hedgehog and seductively drags her tail across his face.

“Don’t be fooled by these mere simpletons,” The mare purrs as she batters her eyelids. “Only a pony of class as sophistication will truly appreciate such an event.”

“Wait, don’t you work at the trade depot that sells farming equipment?” A voice in the growing crowd asks.

The mare blushes, “Well yes, but only the skilled and proper are permitted to do trade with other nations.”

“I thought it was that you just needed to be able to pull 100 pounds.” The voice says again.

With her ‘elegant’ farce revealed, the mare rears up on her hinge legs and plants her front hooves on the hedgehog’s shoulders.

“Just get me out of her for an evening.” She pleads; dropping the posh accent. “I don’t care where we go; as long as it anywhere else, but here.” The mare leans closer. “Please.”

The now massive crowd erupts into an uproar in response to the mare’s tactic and begins to encroach on the two with similar pleas of ‘getting out of Ponyville for a night.’ While others still attempt to seduce the blue hedgehog with promises of ‘making it worth his while’ if he takes them.

However, everyone’s pleas and promises devolve into a muffled chant as they all try to talk over one another.

Sonic cringes and back peddles as he glances at the approaching crowd and then begins scanning the area for a means of escape. The hedgehog spots an upturned cart by a ball tossing game and begins to inch towards it.

“Oh, I’d love to hang, but I gotta ju-…” The hedgehog is cut off mid escape as a light blue female earth pony appears in front of him and faces the crowd.

“Vhat is za meaning of zis? Crowding around like zim vith empty promises and zemands.” The mare all but shouts as she flicks back a flow of pink hair of way from her face. “You are all acting like ze children.”

“No iz far verse.” Another voice says as a pink earth pony appears alongside the blue one. “Iz more like ze virst day of spring and…”

“Wait a minute,” Sonic interjects, cutting the mare off. “So you guys do go through…”

“No!” The blue mare states firmly. “But ze’d think ve do, given how zes ponies are acting.”

“Yo lighten up, Lotus.” A mare in the crowd shouts.

“Yeah,” Another one adds. “We’re just trying to get out of town for a few hours.”

The mare realizing what she said instantly covers her mouth and takes a step back.

“Ah, so zis is vat your intentions were.” The pink mare exclaims. “Treating ze town’s hero as ze meanz to an end; vor shame.”

Aloe’s statement seems to strike deep as the crowd mutter out versions apologetic statements and begin to disburse and disappear into the other parts of town. Or return to the various booths that litter the town square.

Sonic watches the scene in utter shock as the two mares defuse the possibly ugly confrontation and send the other ponies packing. Shakeing himself out of his daze, the blue hedgehog turns to the pink earth pony and then to the blue one. As they trot past him and venture towards whatever they were doing before the crowd started forming.

“Hey, thanks guys. You really got me out of a jam back there.” Sonic states as the two mares stop and turn back towards him. The hedgehog scratches the back of his head and chuckles in amusement. “Before you two showed up, I was just going to book it and hope none of them would follow me.”

The pony now known as Lotus steps forward and gives the hedgehog and small nod; followed by a small smile. “It was our pleasure. Ve know how ‘persistent’ some of ze ponies can get.”

“Still thanks, miss huh…”

“Lotus,” The blue mare states as motions to herself and then to gestures to the pink mare besides her. “And zis iz my sister, Aloe.”

Sonic taps his chin in thought. “Lotus and Aloe, Lotus and…” The hedgehog snaps his fingers and points towards at the blue mare. “Wait, you’re the Blossom sisters that run the spa in down.”

“Zat iz correct,” Aloe confirms as she stops besides her sister. “I take is ze’ve heard of us.”

“Only what one of my friends has told me.” Sonic frowns at the statement. “Rarity keeps trying to convince me to go with her, but I keep trying to explain that Spas just aren’t my thing.”

The two sisters turn to each other and smile. “Ah, yes ze Miss Rarity speaks vather highly of you when she visits.” Lotus states as she turns back to the blue hedgehog.

“Ze should really honor us with a visit.” Aloe adds with a kind smile. “Zeven thee toughest of hero’s zeed a little rest vonce in a while.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Sonic says with an amused chuckle.”Also, I hate to ask, but you two wouldn’t happen to know where I could find some hair dye would you?”

The blue mare chuckles in amusement at the question. “To quote ze Miss Rarity, your spikez are a lovely shade of ze blue.”

“Oh, no it’s not for me.” Sonic says as he waves off the motion. “It’s for a friend of mine.”

Aloe’s ears perk up. “Oh zen vight zis way, igelkott. Ze have just za thing.” The mare boasts as she starts leading Sonic towards the spa.

Sonic scratches the tip of his nose. “igelkott?”

***

“Traffic,” The voice on the other side of the door states flatly and them remains silent for a few moments before continuing. “Yeah, I was thinking about that, maybe….”The voice tails off. “Could I come in? It’s not very fun talking to a hunk of wood on this end.”

“Sure, just don’t try any funny business.” Rainbow Dash says dryly as she adjusts the pith helmet to the left. “I haven’t forgotten what happened last time.”

With low creak the bathroom door swings open; revealing a very unamused Sonic.

“That was an accident and you know it.” The hedgehog says as he crosses his arms and smirks at the Pegasus. “Besides if I remember correctly. You’re the one that walked in on me.”

The mare blushes; still fixed on her reflection. “W-well you’re the one that grabbed my tail and started rubbing your face in it.”

“I had soap in my eyes and was looking for something wipe off my face.” Sonic states flatly. “Besides, that still doesn’t explain why you were in the shower in the first place. If I didn’t know better I’d say that…”

Rainbow Dash grits her teeth and snarls as she turns towards the blue hedgehog. “It’s my house! And I can go where…”The mare trails off as she realized that she just snapped at the hedgehog and lowers her head. “I’m sorry.” She pauses and bites her lower lip. “I didn’t get a lot of sleep that night and was kind of out of it.”

A gloved lifts her head towards a set of emerald green eyes.”It’s alright Dash; I went a little too far with the joke.” His expression hardens. “You’ve seem to be on edge a lot lately. What’s going on?”

“Nothing,” Rainbow Dash states as she turns back to the mirror. “I’m fine.”

Sonic’s expression shifts to a scowl for moment, but then back to his former expression. The cyan mare is still focused on the mirror and misses the expression change.

“If you say so Dash,” The hedgehog says as he sets a small paper bag on the counter and turns to leave. “By the way, I grabbed those things you need for your costume.” The cyan mare lets out a mental sigh of relief as the footfalls lessen.

The footsteps abruptly stop and the sound of crinkling of paper fills the room. “By the way, is all this really necessary?”

Rainbow Dash turns to the source of the voice and spots the blue hedgehog holding a black spray can.

“What do you mean?” The mare attentively asks as she tilts the pith helmet upwards.

Sonic pulls out another and examines it. “Correct me if I’m wrong, but you ponies show your- for lack of a better word- individuality and well... uniqueness by the color of your coats, manes, and tails right?” The mare nods. “So by changing that, doesn’t that kind of make you... Well... Not you?”

The cyan mare chuckles as she trots towards the blue hedgehog. “This is Nightmare night, everypony dresses up as something. Or else it would just be lame.” She turns to Sonic and smiles. “Besides I’m dressing as a character from a book. It’s not like this pony exits in real life or anything.” Her expression shifts to a serious one. “Then that would be weird.”

***

Meanwhile a small female Pegasus stands before a mirror covered head to hoof in cyan fur dye; only the dark purple of her mane and tail remain of her original color. The small filly reaches into a box and pulls out a spray can with several different colors on it.

“Just a quick shot of this and I’ll be looking 20% cooler in no time.” The small filly boasts, holding the can between her hooves and begins shaking it.

***

Sonic and Rainbow Dash share a laugh and each wipes away a tear.

“Yeah, that would be kind of creepy.” The hedgehog says lets a few chuckles escape his mouth.

“I know right. Can you imagine?” The mare adds as she snatches the yellow spray can off the counter with her wing. “Now give me a hand with this. This can get a bit messy if you don’t aim properly.”

The hedgehog nods and walks towards the mare.

***

Inside a certain boutique a certain dress maker sits before a large changing screen as a large shadow moved across it. Rarity looks down at her hooves as she taps them together and then turns back to the screen.

“Is there anything else I can get for you, your highness?”

The shadow stops and then starts walking towards the other end of the engaging screen.
“Miss Rarity, we’ve been over this. You don’t need to continue addressing me in ‘that’ sort of fashion.”

“But Princess B-“ Rarity attempts to interject, but is cut off.

“Nor is calling me ‘princess’, necessary either.” The voice sighs. “Here, I have neither kingdom to rule over nor any lands to call my own. So the title seems a bit hollow when spoken. Besides,” A small chuckle is heard. “I never much cared for the title to begin with.”

Rarity’s ears fold back as she droops further into her seat. “But to not address a pony of royalty and high society as such is just... Unthinkable.”

A certain lilac cat pokes her head out from behind the screen; void of the red band that usually holds her hair up. She now has to brush the bangs away from her face as it cascades across the top of her head.

“It’s it also ‘unthinkable’ to ignore a Princess’s request. Is it not?” The cat states in a mock stern voice as she disappears back behind the screen.

Rarity frowns at the statement, knowing that any future arguing would still lead to the same conclusion. Glancing around her boutique as if looking for something to steer the conversation towards, the white mare notices a stylized sketch lying on the floor. With the use of her magic, the mare picks up the paper and holds it in front of her face.

“So, Pri- I mean Blaze, where did you come up with such a lavish design for your costume; if you don’t mind me asking. It’s seems oddly specific and almost seems to clash with your normal attire.”

The cat lets out a fake a gasp as her silhouette lifts something over her head and slides it on. “Isn’t that the point of this ‘Nightmare Night’ to pretend to be something you’re not? Or was I misinformed?”

“I suppose your right.” Rarity says with a frown. “Though I do wish you would have let me update that style or at the very lease change some of the accessories you’ve put on this.” She glances at the drawing still hovering in front of her face. “I mean, aren’t the wings a bit much?”

***

Starting at her refection in the bathroom mirror, a certain librarian uses her magic to levitate a small eyeliner brush and drags it across the eyelashes of her right eye; giving it a few quick swipes for good measure. Pulling the small applicator down, the mare stares back at her self.

Staring back at her is a very different pony; red piercing eyes stare back at the pony as back eyeliner and mascara only heightens the creepy factor. Twilight’s right ear twitches a she continues to stare back at her reflection.
“Maybe I should have gone with the wings and ear extensions.” The mare says to no one in particular as she examines her reflection.

“Then you’d look like a vampire bat pony.” A familiar voice says mater-o-factly in the distance. “Sometimes less is more.”

Twilight frowns at the comment and snaps her head towards the source of the snarky remark. “Oh yeah, w-well what do you know, Spike.” She snaps back; lacking any counter to the comment. “Let’s see what you picked out for a costume.”

The young drake chuckles loudly at the comment. “What’s so funny?!” the mare demands.

“Jokes on you Twilight, I made mine this year.” The sound of someone knocking on the front door cuts the dragon off. “It begins!” The drake states to no one in particular as soft footstep patter across the floor; followed by the tall-tell sound of hard candy clanking in a glass bowl. “Now hurry up and let’s get going. Everypony is probably waiting on us.”

Twilight rolls her eyes and uses her magic to levitate a set of false teeth into her mouth. The mare shifts them around a bit with her tong before opening her mouth, revealing a set large of fangs, and making a loud hiss sound.

***

Deep within the confides of a dimly lit room. A series of large machines hiss and pump as shots of steam bellow out from the various vents. A massive cauldron of some mysterious green liquid bubbles as it’s held over a large flame. With a loud snap the flame shuts off and the steal pot is tipped into a large metal funnel; that starts to travel down a serious of pipes.

Twisting and turning down the complete maze. The mysterious liquid passes though several other machines that churn it or reheat it. Or stopped and then poured into another large container; dwarfing the former one. As the liquid begins to cool, several others join it; all of them of varied colors and consistencies.

As the last of the other mysterious liquids fill the container, a large egg beater lowers into it and starts spinning; spattering along the walls of the inside of the container. Coming to a complete stop the mechanical egg beater lets out a loud hiss and begins rising out of the steal pot and makes a loud click as it stops several feet above it.

The now bright green mixture is poured out if the container and onto a large metal pan; making a loud spat as it lands. A loud hiss shoots out from one of machines above, following by the call of a brass horn; as the machine shutters to a stop.

A large light flicks; illuminating the large room and its contents. The sound of hoof fall echoes across the now silent room. A door creak open and a familiar pastry chef pokes her head into the room.

“Are you still messing with that thing, Pinkie? Your friends are going to be here any minutes.” The mare glances around the room and spots the large lime green blob still sitting on the metal pan. “Please tell me you’re not going as…that.”

The blob sits silently for a second before a large pink tongue bursts from it and licks away the mysterious mixture. A certain party pony stands in the spot the blob once did and retracts her cartoonishly large appendage.

“Nope-er-oony, just testing the scary cake maker.” The mare smacks her lips as she turns towards the elder earth pony. “I think I need to tweak the recipe again. It’s still not sweet enough.

Ms. Cake chuckles at the party pony. “Well it’s going have to wait my, my dear. It would be rude of you to blow off your friends to work on this old thing.”

“But I’m so close.” Pinkie states as her mane deflates slightly; only to suddenly poof back to normal a second later as a big smile appears on her face. “But I guess it will have to wait. What sort of host would I be if I didn’t show up to the party? Plus, Spiky is going to be there and I wouldn’t miss partying with him for all the taffy in Prance; which is a lot, let me tell you.”

The elder pastry chef chuckles as the mare’s remark. “You seem to have a thing for that Sonic fellow.”

“Of course!” Pinkie boasts with a wide grin. “He’s my bestest-best friend. I mean not that my other bestest-best friends aren’t my friends. Or that there any less important or…”

Miss Cake holds up a hoof to silence the pinke party pony and gives her a stern look. “I thought you were going to an event in Canterlot. Please don’t tell me you forgot.”

Pinkie’s grin shifts to a frown. “N-no of course not I just…HEY LOOK A DISTRACTION!” The mare shouts as she points to something in the distance.

Ms. Cake instinctively turns in the direction the mare just pointed before realizing what the mare just said. “Really Pinkie,” Sure turns back towards the mare; only to see an empty patch of floor, where the mare once stood.”Was that really--” She trails off. “…necessary?”

The mare lets out a groan as she flicks the light off and exits the room.

***

As the sun sets in the horizon, the shy burns with a fiery orange and purple; signaling the start of the festive night. Fillies and colts scurry around the busy streets; some in costume some in out. While shopkeepers add their final touches to the decorations outside their establishments. A few stallions and mares make the final adjustments to the various stands and games that litter the town square. As a few mill about the area, grabbing last minute items and such before the beginning of the festival.

A now burnt yellow pegasus lands in the market square and looks around at the hustle and bustle of the nearby ponies; So encouraged in their work that they fail to notice ‘Equestria’s fastest flyer’ standing before them. The mare rolls her eyes and lets out a snort.

“Maybe Sonic was right,” She glances at her costume and faux cutie mark. “No pony recognizes me now.”

“Well, if it an’t the infamous Daring Dashwood.” A familiar voice; with a hint of southern twang states. “Ah figured you’d be off looking for more buried treasure.”

Rainbow Dash frowns as the turn to the farm pony and lets out a sigh. “First of all it’s ‘Daring Do’ not Dashwood.” The pegasus begins as she keeps her unamused gaze locked on the approaching mare. “Second, its ancient temples and lost civilizations she searches for; not treasure. She just happens upon some from time to time and lastly…” Dash trails off as she gives her friend a once over. “What’s with the outfit?”

Applejack lets out an annoyed short. “Ya saying that ah don’t have a proper costume, Dash?”

The pegasus mare waves her forelegs in front of her face defensively. “No, of course not it’s just...” She trails off as he gives her friend another once over. “It just looks like something you’d wear normally.”

Standing before Rainbow Dash is Ponyville's local farmer, well known apple fanatic, and hero; Applejack. (Though she didn’t consider the last one to be true and figured any other pony would have done the same.) Who, instead of just donning her trademark stetson, is now wearing something you’d see straight out of a western.

A pale red and orange plaid shirt covers the mare's front half of her body. With obvious ‘fake leather’ chaps wrap firmly around her hind legs; tapered in such a way that still shows off her cutie mark. As well as a braided mane and tail, instead of the usual ‘pony tail’. Along with her ever useful lasso attached to those with a metal clip. With a red handkerchief tied around her neck to complete the ensemble.

The farm pony lets out gasp as she reaches into her knapsack- something her cyan friend missed somehow- and pulls out a brown poncho. Applejack drapes it over her head and cross her back.

Rainbow Dash grins at the ‘western themed mare’ and says the first thing that pops into her head.

“Yippee ki-yay.”

***

As some of the town folk continue to put the finishing touches on the decorations and games that dotted the square. Two figures shifted though the crowd as they make their way towards the large fountain. A few passes by give the taller of the two a sideways glance as they pass by; while a few stop and gawk at the shorter of the two.

“Not really the reaction I was expecting when I made this.” A certain fashionista laments as she scans the several on lookers in the crowd. “You’d think they never seen a fancy costume before.”

“I believe it’s the way you’re wearing it.” The figure walking besides her laments as they match the mare’s pace. “You’re the only one I’ve noticed wearing leggings. Is there some meaning behind those that you have possibly missed?”

Rarity lets out a gasp as she holds a hoof to her mouth. “I never thought of that, maybe I should change out of the.” The mare glances at a few of the slack-jawed onlookers. “Though, I do enjoy all this attention, maybe...” Rarity’s eyes snap open and she gives her head a few hard shakes. “What am I saying? To be gawked at like some sort of harlot? That is just-- Is just-- Dreadful!”

Making her way towards the fountain, Ponyville’s ‘premier’ designer, shows off her latest creation. A pointed large rimed hat sits on the mare’s head, just a few shades darker then her mane and tail, accented with black feathers and a vale. While a shimmering black cape drapes across her back, that’s held together with a small white brooch. With black net stockings going up her rear legs, just stopping before the bend. The mare sports a dark dress, the same color as the hat under the long cape; with turquoise bans on each of her forelegs, resting just above each hoof.

Going for the ‘win’, Rarity has not styled her name and tail in the usual fashion. Rather, she opted to let them to hang freely. The style to her mane and tail alone seemed to be getting the mare the most attention, while a few stares are directed at the rather risky stockings.

“That choice will have to be made on the way to our destination. The others are probably already waiting for us.”

“Indeed.” The mare says with a nod and turns towards certain Burmese cat. “Though I do believe that, not all this attention was directed solely towards me.”

The Sol ruler glances at some of the on lookers and then turns her attention back towards the fountain. “It would seem you are correct, Miss Rarity.”

“For what it’s worth, you did a fine job crafting that outfit of yours.” The mare frowns for a moment. “However, I do still think you would have benefited greatly, if you had allowed me to make those changes that I suggested.”

“Perhaps,” Blaze begins as she adjusts the red hair band holding her hair back.”But some of the things that you had suggested would have made this outfit unrecognizable. Plus,” The cat grimaces. “I don’t believe I would have been able to pull it off.”

“Nonsense darling, you would have been the talk of the town.” Rarity trails off as she glances at a few of the on lookers. “In fact, I believe you already are.”

Walking alongside the unicorn fashionista the princess of Sol has changed from her usual royal garments into something a bit for ‘festive’. A red dress hands over the felines frame; stopping just above the knee. Accented with a black insert on the front and back along with white cross hatch bands going across.
Black socks run down each of her legs, into a set of oversized red and black boots. Oversized shoulder pads sit on either side of the dress as two long arms extend into long while stylized gloves with red knuckle guards on them.

Topping off the outfit is a set of small white wings on either side of the back; just above the feline’s shoulder blades.

“Perhaps your right Miss Rarity, I seem to have gotten almost as much attention as you have.”

The alabaster mare chuckles in response. “Well, that just comes with the job.”

“And what would that be...?”

“To look fabulous of course,” Rarity motions towards a cluster of ponies. “There they are over there.”

***

Along the outskirts of Ponyville a small figure trots along a narrow dirt path. Every so often, it would stop and fleck a set of large wings and adjust something on its torso; till the clock tower chimes in the distance.
Prompting the figure to let out a small squeak and jump back in response.

“Oh dear, I’m going to be late. I-I hope no pony will be mad if I am.”

***

As the mane 6 gather at the agreed meeting spot, each comment on turn out of tonight festivities and how each are excited about the ‘event’ they’ve all been invited to. Though, it’s not till Twilight and Spike arrive that the conversation shifts towards each other’s costumes; the first few directed towards the young drake.

“So uh what are yer suppose to be, sugar cube?” A certain farm pony asks as she gives the dragon a once over. “Can’t say ah’ve seen anything like that before.”

Spike twiddles a one the right side of his long whisker like mustache. “Well that’s probably because I don’t exist. At least not outside of a town that doesn’t border the dragon empire.”

Applejack tilts her head to the side. “Come again?”

“I’m a Kirin,” He gestures towards his anthropomorphic figure. “Or at least the closest one can get without become a quadruped.”

“Your gonna have to explain’ that one to me. Ah’m still a tad unsure what that is.”

“He’s half dragon half pony.” A voice says in the distance. “Few have ever been document, fewer still leave there home land.”

Everyone turns towards a certain butter yellow Pegasus as she lands a few paces from the group. “Most ponies think there a myth, but I’ve…” The mare trails off and cowers as she notices everyone staring at her. “I’m sorry; I’m not interrupting anything am I?”

The farm pony gives the mare a dismissive wave. “Na, we were just killin’ some time till the rest of our friends showed up.” She glances around before continuing. “Speaking of which, we’re still missing a few ponies.”

“Well you can’t have the stares of the show to not be fashionably late.” A familiar voice says in the distance; Prompting everyone to turn towards a certain fashionista and feline. “Sometimes you have to save the best for last.”

Applejack attempts to stiffen a chuckle behind a raised foreleg.

“What’s so funny?” Rarity demands as she shoots the farm pony a glare.

“Oh nothin’.” The wheat color mare states as she wipes a tear way with a foreleg. “It’s just than yer not the last one to arrive.”

Rarity’s ears perk up beneath her hat as she looks around. “Gracious, who are we still missing?

“Well we still have Pinkie and Sugar Hog, plus,” the mare looks around. “I haven’t seen Miss Blaze none neither.”

“I’m right here.” A familiar voice states as a certain feline steps towards the group, causing them gawk in response. “Do I really look ‘that’ different in this dress?”

The farm pony shakes her head frantically. “N-so course not it’s just…just Ah didn’t take ya somepony that wore that sort of thing.”

Blaze frowns at the statement as Rarity let out an addible gasp. “Surely you can’t be serious?”

“Ah am serious.” Applejack laments. “And don’t call me Shirley.”

The fashionista opens her mouth to retort, but is cut off by a certain speedy Pegasus. “You two will be at this all day at this rate.” The mare looks over the Burmese cat. “Though I gotta say, it’s a good look for you.” She tilts her head. “Did you dye your fur?”

“Actually, it’s a low form of illusion.” Blaze says a she adjusts one of her gloves. “Miss Rarity assisted in this.” The white unicorn grins at the phrase. “However,” The cat tugs on one of her pigtails. “This is merely a wig.”

“Well uh,” Fluttershy begins hesitantly. “I think it looks nice.”

“Thank you, Miss Fluttershy.”

Twilight loudly clears her throat to gain everyone’s attention. “Well then, all that leaves in Pinkie and…”

“I’m right here!” A hyper voice states as a certain party pony pop out of a nearby barrel; prompting everyone to let out a shriek and fall over.

“P-Pinkie, when did you get here?” Rainbow Dash stutters out as she returns to her hooves.

“Oh, right about the time you started complaining that no pony noticed you, Dash.” The pink mare says cheerfully as bounces in place.

The pegusus shakes her head. “Pinkie, you are SO random. Also, what are you supposed to be?”

“I’m candy!” The party pony says as she hops in place. “A big gummy, Pinkie!”

“Really now,” Dash asks in a skeptical tone. “It looks like you just covered yourself in sugar.”

Pinkie’s ears droop as she looks at the ground and begins pawing at it. “Well, I did have this super duper awesome costume ready, but….one of the twins had a tummy ach and….well.”

“That’s enough!” Rarity commands as she raises her hoof. “I think we all get the point.”

The fashionista lowers her hoof and turns to the butter yellow Pegasus standing nearby. “That is a simply fabulous butterfly costume. Did you make that?”

Fluttershy meekly nods. “Y-yes, it’s just something my animal friends and I put together.” She sinks towards the ground. “It’s nothing really.”

“Nonsense,” Rarity says with a righteous hoof point. “It is simply divine. May I ask what inspired you to make such a fashionable outfit?”

Rainbow Dash attempts to hold back a snicker. “I think I know what inspired it.”

The alabaster mare snaps her head towards the faux explorer. “Really now, what would that be?”

“It’s not a what, but a who.” The mare continues to hold back a laugh behind a foreleg. “And it’s some pony we all know.”

Rarity’s eyes snap open as she starts putting the pieces together. “Surely you can’t mean…”

“Well alright then,” Applejack cuts in attempting to change the subject. “All that leaves now is Sugar Hog and…”

A loud yell cuts the mare off as two familiar male unicorns run by; one with a large bucket on his head.

“Get it off. Get it off! I can’t see!” The taller of the two demands as he charges wildly though the market square.

“I will once you stop running!” the short one retorts as he struggles to keep up.

The mane 6 and Blaze watches the antics of two colts. Till they notice the one with the bucket on his head, is charging straight towards a hot food stand.

“Look out!” They all shout in unison and frantically galloped towards the blinded unicorn.

A loud snap cuts the approaching group off as a large gust of wind almost knocks them backwards. Applejack feels something graze her flank and turns to notice her bundle of rope is gone.

“What the…”

Just before the tall unicorn blindly crashes into the stall a lasso hooks around the colts hind legs and pulls him to the ground; knocking the bucket off upon landing. The now bucket free pony rolls onto his back and looks up at the shadowy figure looming over him.

It’s imposing tall stature, glowing red eyes, and glomming white fangs prompt the young colt to let out a girlish shriek and curl into a ball.

“I-I’m sorry,” He stammer out still cowering in fear. “I’m too young to die, please don’t drink my blood.”

The smaller of the two colts skids to a stop and flings an apple from a nearby stand with his magic at the mysterious creature; striking it in the head.

“Leave Snails alone, you... you monster!”

Rubbing the spot it was struck, the shadowy figure turns toward the small colt; causing him to back pedal a bit.

“Snips run!” The pony now known as Snails shouts. “Get help.”

The figure turns to the fleeing pony and then towards the one still lying on its back and throws it’s hands up into the air.

“Seriously dude,” A familiar voice asks as it crosses its arms. “This is the thanks I get for saving you from become a crispy fried pony?”

Snails uses his magic to illuminate the small area and reveals a certain hedgehog standing before him.

“S-Sonic?” He shudders out in confusion.

The blue hedgehog grins. “The one and only,”

Approaching hoof steps and muffled voices draws the two’s attention toward group of approaching ponies.

“Uh hi,” Sonic says with a slight wave. “Just uh, keeping the peace. Yeah.”

“Ya sure roped him good.” A familiar voice stated as a small yellow female earth pony emerges from the crowd. “Ah mean that twas some quick thinkin’ there, Sonic.”

“Yeah, I mean you even hog tied him too.” Another voice squeaked as a small while unicorn stops near Apple Bloom.

Seeing that the ‘mysterious figure’ was just the town’s hero, the crowd disperses and returns to whatever they were doing before the ‘incident’. Snails even shakes free of his bindings and scurries off. Sonic raises an eyebrow at the sudden departure of the crowd, but then shrugs it off and returns to his feet.

“Well that was weird.” The hedgehog says as he watches the crowd hastily vanish. “I wonder if it’s something I said.”

“Na, those two are always getting into trouble.” Sweetie Belle states with a reassuring tone. “Kind of become old news after a while.”

“Kind of like a certain group of crusaders I know.” Sonic retorts with a smirk.

“HEY!” The two fillies shout in unison.

The hedgehog lets out an amused chuckle. “I’m just kidding.” He then smirks. “Those are some neat costumes by the way.”

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle grin widely at the hedgehog’s phrase.

Wrapped in a series of tan bandages, the small farm pony dons the guise of an accent Ferro; minus any of the royal regale. The fillies' bright orange eyes shine brightly against the skillfully places bandages; only allowing a few places of her yellow fur to remain visible; mostly along her knees and neck.

While the unicorn has a series of ‘patch marks’ painted on her alabaster coat. Some a different shade of her usual fur color; possibly to show that other pieces of other ponies have ‘sewn on’. As well as donning two large bolts on either side of her neck as her mane and tail are styles as if she was shocked with a large amount of electricity.

“Hey, you guys are one short. Where’s Scoo-GAH!”

Something large and while spears the hedgehog and knocks him to the ground.

“Ah, not again,” Sonic shouts as he tries to push the large white mass off of him. “Why can’t you ponies take the hint that I…” The hedgehog trails off as spots a familiar music mixing mare staring back at him.

“Whoa man, calm the buck down!” Vinyl commands as she uses her magic to remove her shades. “If I knew you were going to freak out like this. I would have done something else.”

The hedgehog blinks in response and then raises an eyebrow. “You just speared me, dressed as ah…”

“A cat,”
“Yeah, a cat and now you’re…wait what?”

“Meow” Vinyl says playfully as she ‘paws’ as the hedgehog’s chest with an oversized cat foot and begins imitating a purring sound.

“That is so hot!” Sonic states as the mare currently straddling him starts to blush.

Vinyl opens and closes her mouth several times; attempt to form a response. Only to let out a small yelp as she’s incased in a dark pink aura and unceremoniously lifted off the hedgehog.

“Put me down, put me down!” The mare demands as she’s left hovering in the air; still surrounded by the same pink magic aura. “That is so not cool, Twilight.”

The mare in question trots towards the still hovering mixing pony and lets out an unladylike snort. “You’re one to talk.”

“Quite right,” Another voice explains as a certain fashionista appears alongside the lavender mare. “A lady doesn’t ‘pounce’ a stallion in public. It is just so uncouth.” Rarity adds as she flicks her nonexistent bangs out of her face.

Sonic raises an eyebrow at the two mares and then turns to the still hovering pony, trapped in Twilight’s magic grasp. “You two have made your point. Can you put Scratch down, please?” The hedgehog asks flatly.

Twilight lets out a nervous laugh and releases her hold on the music mixing mare; setting gingerly back down hooves. Vinyl gives the lavender mare a sour look and then turns back to Sonic.

“Thanks for the save, Needles. I was getting worried that I was in trouble there for a second.”

“It probably would have been.” A voice says with a menacing chuckle. “No pony gets to ‘pounce’ Spiky except me.” The lavender mare glares towards the source of the voice. “Oh, and of course Twilight.”

The group slowly turns to a disturbingly strait mane glaring Pinkie; whose mane instantly re-inflates upon seeing the blue hedgehog.

“Hi Spiky,” The party mare cheerfully shouts as she springs over to Sonic and gives him a big hug. “Everypony was looking for you.” She tightens her grip and glares up at him. “Only to find you ‘playing’ with somepony else.”

Pinkie’s glare breaks for a moment as she cheerfully waves at the confused music mixing mare. “Hey Vinyl, what are you doing here?”

“Uh hi Pinkie,” The mare says hesitantly as she glances over at Sonic for help with the party pony; only to receive a shrug in response. “Just uh, showing Needles my costume here.”

The pink mare grins at the response, “I noticed.” Her smile vanishes. “Why are you dressed like a cat?”

“That is a good question.” Another voice says as a familiar feline appears alongside the party pony. The cat cracks her knuckles and raises her nose at the mare. “Why indeed.”

Vinyl gulps at the Sol guardian’s arrival and cowers behind the blue hedgehog. “I-It was all a coincidence I swear. D-don’t hurt me.”

Blaze stops dead in her tracks and gives the mare a bewildered look. “Why would I want to cause you any harm, Miss Scratch?”

“I dunno,” A familiar voice speaks up, prompting everyone to turn to a certain blue hedgehog. As he pries himself out of the party pony’s death grip. “Maybe it was the menacing gaze or the fact that you’ve been casting a fire ball in your right hand since you stopped…talking” Sonic raises an eyebrow as he examines the other mare’s costumes.

The bemuses cat glance as her smoldering right hand and arches an eye in response. “It would seem that my actions don’t match my intent, my apologies.”

Vinyl lets out a nervous chuckle as she begins to inch away from the Sol Guardian. “I-it’s c-cool, I-I can see why y-you’d think something is up.” The mare’s cat ears fold back as she forces a nervous grin. “I-It was nice talking to you, b-but I have to go. Bye.”

The group watches as the music mixing mare bolts; almost knocking over several ponies in the process and disappears behind one of the festive decorations that dot the area.

Sonic watches Vinyl flee and then slowly turns towards the group as he crosses his arms. “Really? Was all that necessary, guys?” He shakes his head in disappointment. “I mean seriously, c’mon.”

Blaze opens her mouth to retort, but quickly shuts it and lets out a sigh. “Your right, we all acted…out of place just now.” She takes a regal stance. “We should all apologize to Miss Scratch for our actions.”

“Hey speak for yourself!” A certain mare retorts as she lands next to the blue hedgehog. “Not all of us were acting like a clingy ex just now.”

“Ah’d have ta agree, with Dash here.” A certain farm pony adds as she trots next to the Pegasus. “Ya three, may be my friend, but ah an’t apologizing for somethin’ ah didn’t do.”

The blue hedgehog smacks his hands together to get everyones attention. “Alright then, now that that’s... settled. Let’s…” Sonic pauses as he notices Applejack slowly slinking away. “Uh AJ, what are you doing?”

“Oh uh nothin’, Just uh gonna got uh check on somethin’ real quick. You guys go on without me?” The mare frantically scans the area as she quickens her pace as she spots her younger sister by one of the stalls. “Ah think Apple Bloom want help with-GAH!”

Applejack lets out a shriek as Sonic suddenly appears before her with his arms crossed and a frown on his face. “Something going on that I missed?” He taps his foot. “You’ve been avoiding me all week. What’s that all about?”

“Nothin’” The wheat colored mare says as she looks in every direction, but the blue hedgehog’s. “Just have a few things that need takin’ care of and…” Applejack is cut off as her head is grabbed by two large gloved hands and shifted towards two emerald green eyes. The mare blushes. “W-what are ya doing, Sugar Hod?”

Sonic smirks as he releases his grip and kneels down to about eye level with the mare. “You’re really terrible at lying, AJ.” His face shifts to a serious one. “Now c’mon, what’s going on?”

The farm pony sighs and looks away. “I told my sister, I’d ask you somethin’ next time we ran into each other.”

“Did you promise?”

“What?”

“I said did you promise your sister that you’d ‘ask me this question?”

Applejack’s eyebrow rises behind her fringe as she tilts her head back slightly. “Wha’cha ya getting at, Sugar? Ah just told ya, Apple Bloom said ah should ask ya somethin’ next time we meet.”

“Exactly, you never agreed much less promised to ‘whatever it is that you needed to ask me.’ So quite frankly you don’t need to do anything.”

The mare face hoofs and lets out a low growl. “Consarnit!”

Sonic lets out a chuckle as he begins looking over the other ponies costumes. “Let’s see here,” He looks at Applejack. “We have Annie Oakley.” Then he turns to Pinkie. “Sugar Rush.” Rarity enters his line of sigh. “One of the good witches from Oz.” Fluttershy peaks up from behind a bush. “Shutter bug.”

The butter yellow Pegasus giggles at the comment as Pinkie jumps in place.

“Ok, who else?” Sonic turns his gaze towards Twilight. “A vampire... that-- *snicker*.” The hedgehog turns towards a certain drake as he mingles with a few fillies. “Hey Spike, you were right. Vampires can sparkle. I owe you ten bits.” The drake rubs his hands together villainously as a certain lavender mare grumbles in annoyance. “Temple Spelunker; not a hard one since I helped put it together.” Dash frowns at the comment. “And finally, last but not least….” Sonic pauses as he gives a certain feline a once over. “Honey?”

“Excuse me?” Blaze asks inquisitively. “Who is this ‘Honey’?”

The hedgehog waves dismissively at the comment. “Never mind, I’ll tell you later. Is everyone ready?”

Blaze crosses her arms across her chest and smirks. “I shall hold you to that, bat boy.”

“Not ‘bat’ vampire.” Sonic states mater-o-factly as he pulls out a large bungle of dark fabric from behind his back. “I even got a cape and everything.”

Twilight lets out a nervous chucked. “I have one of those too.” A black cape phases into existence and drapes over the mare’s back. “I wasn’t sure if it was a bit much to wear it.”

“Na, not at all. “Sonic says with a dismissive wave and a grin. “In fact I think it kind of ties the whole look together. Wouldn’t you agree?”

The lavender mare blushes and begins pawing at the ground with a hoof. “I was thinking the same thing, actually.”

“Which only proves that great minds think alike.” Sonic states enthusiastically as he crosses his arms and gives Twilight a playful wink; causing her to blush profusely. “Now is everyone ready, to get this show on the road?”

“Sonic darling, won’t yours and Twilight’s costumes…’clash’?” Rarity begins as she steps forward. “Certainly an alternative must be chosen.”

“Na, it’s no big deal.” The hedgehog replies with a dismissive hand motions. “Besides we don’t have the time. Worst case scenario; we find something once we get there.” Sonic gives the mare a stern look. “That is if it’s really is that much of a problem.”

“We shall see Rarity says with a nod of her head. “C’mon very pony, let us head towards the station before the crowds….”

“I got a better idea.” Sonic interjects; cutting the mare off.

“Really now?” Rarity asks as she raises her eyebrow. “What could you have in mind that it better then the train?”

The blue hedgehog grins as a red Chaos Emerald appears in his hand. “We’re taking the express route.”

“Ah no,” Applejack says as she starts backing way. “Last time ya tried using that, we all ended up getting scattered like jacks all over the platform. What makes ya think this time will be different?”

“I’ve been practicing.” Sonic states plainly. “You can even ask Dash.”

“It’s true,” Rainbow Dash replies with a smirk. “Sonic almost never uses the zip copter anymore.” Pinkie frowns at the comment and looks away.

“Well, I wouldn't say I stopped using it.” Sonic interjects; hoping to spare the party mare’s feelings. “I just don’t use it to get to and from town. I still use it for long trips.” Pinkie grins and returns to her energetic bouncing.

“To transport such a great distance,” Twilight begins as she taps her chin with a hoof. “With this many ponies…just isn’t possible.”

“Oh ye of little faith, Sparkles.” Sonic says with a smirk. “I’ve done the impossible before. Why should this be any different?”

Twilight opens her mouth to comment, but is cut off by Blaze.
“Agreed, let us make hast. The festivities will soon begin.”

Sonic tosses his gem into the air a few times before turning to the Burmese cat. “Finally someone that’s speaking my language.” He turns to the group. “Any objections?” Everyone shakes their heads.

The blue hedgehog motions everyone to gather close and hold up the chaos emerald once everyone complies. “Let do this; CHAOS…CONTROL!”

With a flash of light the group vanishes from sight; leaving only a small patch of disturbed earth where they once stood.

Behind a small cart a small filly emerges dressed as a certain blue speedster.

“Phew, that was close.”

Next Chapter Preview:

Pinkie: "Weeee! That was fun!"

Twilight: "Why is everypony staring?"

Blaze: "If thou Wishes to keep thy sight, then...

Luna: "Huzzah! The friends have been doubled!"

Nightmare on Duchess Street

Author's Note

Edit: Now edited and with bonus content.

~enjoy

Nightmare Night is upon us again and the gang prepares for a festive night at the country's capital.

What could possibly go wrong?

You don't have to answer that.

While Ponyville gets ready for there own celebration; hoping to outdo last years events.

What awaits our heroes in the city of Canterlot?

Find out next time on, Battle for Equestria!

Ok, another chapter out and ready for your viewing pleasure, let me know what you guys think in the comment section below.

All characters belong to there respective owners.

PEACE

Hedgehog in the Big City

While the last of the sun rays sink into the horizon, a massively condensed city bustles with activity high above much of Equestria's other lands--Except Cloudsdale, of course. The capital city prepares for the nights' festivities. Massive shops with tall windows line the market square, standing before the cobble stone streets; decorated from the ground to the highest point in scary ordainments of all things for the season; while other buildings stand as if they haven’t been attended to for decades.

Most lack any sort of illumination, aside from a lone candle shinning in a select number of windows. There, yards lay unkempt, filled with massive overgrowth of its trees and lawn. Some even appear to have fallen into complete disrepair while others have a strange fog looming around it, adding to the already creepy atmosphere.

All of it is fake of course, with the use of a few select spells of illusion and such. Even the most eloquent homes can appear to have fallen into destitute or be possessed by some supernatural forces.

Well, except old lady Jackie Lander’s house. It always looks like that.

Moving on…

As per the night princesses’ ‘request’, many have dressed for the occasion. Donning expensive costumes of historical and fictional characters or simple ones made from whatever was accessible at the time. Creating a mishmash of great heroes and villains, or even creatures of legend or mythos; while a few are dressed in the store bought costumes you’d see anywhere. Ghosts, mummies, cheesy pirate outs, and a few doctors and nurses miss about as well.

Solders of the Night Guard patrol the busy streets, bringing order to the chaos -and possibly to persuade some of the overzealous city folk from partaking in some questionable activities- while the elite Lunar Guards take to the skies and watch the ponies mill about from the shadows.

While most don’t notice the bat ponies as they patrol the city, some catch a glimpse of something shimmering off in the distance as light catches there charcoal black wings for a moment. But other than a raised eyebrow or slanted expression every so often, they remain invisible to the public.

As the town prepares for a fully Luna directed night, a group of snooty nobles trot towards the market, making snide comments of the ‘less than stellar’ decorations on a certain establishment or on a commoner’s choice of costume. One certain blond-manned, white unicorn stallion snubs his nose at a passerby dressed as a comic book hero and turns away in disgust as a vendor attempts to sell him a caramel apple.

“Your rotten apples dipped in overpriced sugary sludge even worth using as a door stop.” The snooty unicorn says as he literally spits on the ground in front of the stand. “Do you even know who I am? Or even what I could do to you if I see fit?”

The unicorn turns to the vendor, waiting for a stutter or frightened reply; only to see him dash away in the opposite direction.

“How unsightly, the poor fool can’t even…” The stallion trails off as he notices the other members of his entourage start to back pedal away from him; with varied frighten expressions. “What in the name of prench manicures are you all gawking at?”

A female noble gestures towards something behind the white stallion; who promptly lets out a snooty snort and turns in the direction the mare just pointed towards.

“I don’t know who you are, but nopony…GAH!” The unicorn stares at what’s before him with a gaped expression.

A massive figure easily dwarfing either of the alicorn sisters stands before the stallion. Its black caprice, like shell, shimmers in the moon light; each section fitting together like a set of platelet armor. While large fangs glisten as they hang from a massive maw.

The once overconfident and snooty noble, trembles furiously as he tries not to soil his royal garbs. “N-Now see here, w-whatever y-you are. I don’t…” He trails off as the creature kneels down so that it’s eye level with the stallion; who promptly gulps loudly.

“Boo!”

A high pitched girlish scream erupts from the stallion as he and his band of trouble makers turns tail and flees.
As the group disappears from sight, the image fades and the vendor from earlier as well as a young female green unicorn step out from behind a stall.

“Well that was unexpected.” The mare laments as she watches the group flee from sight.

The stallion nods in agreement. “Indeed, you’d think he’d at least try to ‘buy’ his way out of a confrontation.”

“A fine example of Canterlot Nobility indeed.”

“*snort* Yep.”

Both burst out in a roar of laughter as the whinnying prince and his group of snooty nobles flees the scene.

***

-Elsewhere

Stallions and mares of all classes and types navigate through the busy street. While the Pegasi take to the air, unicorns and earth ponies are forced to push and shove to get to their destination.

At least until a large familiar symbol appears on the ground, gaining the attention of a few passersby. Then it ignites and everyone jumps back.

A circle of fire forms around the mark and then shoots several feet into the air; causing the ponies that had gathered around the strange marking to let out a yelp. Eight figures appear from behind the flames as they descend back towards the ground.

Some of the ponies’ still present, mutter out various ‘oohs’ and ‘awws’ and then start cheering while stomping there hooves. Sonic turns towards the group and gives them one of his trademark smiles.

“I told you guys I’d get us here.” He gives them a cheeky smirk as he holds a hand to his ear. “And what’s this, is that phrase I hear?”

A few members of the group mutter out various comments on the hedgehog’s remark, while a few just shrug it off and remain quiet.

“So you got us here in one piece.” Rainbow Dash says as she steps forward and flicks her head back. “Big whoop.”

“It is actually a ‘big whoop’.” Another voice says as a certain lavender mare appears alongside the Pegasus. “Given the complexity of trip, factored with the amount of ponies….”

“Equestrian, Twilight, Equestrian.” Rainbow Dash retorts. “Not all of us can speak nerd.”

Twilight shoots the mare a glare before muttering something under her breath before continuing.

“Anyway as I was saying before ‘somepony’ interrupted me.” She gives the Pegasus another sharp glare. “To get us all here in one piece and right where we wanted to be; is nothing short of impressive.”

Sonic smirks at the mare’s analysis and lifts his chin in the air in a mock snooty expression. “It’s nothing, really.”

“True as that may be, nopony likes a showoff.” Another voice says as an alabaster mare steps forward. “Nor is it a proper use of fire gems.”

“Ah’d havta agree with Rarity on this one.” Another voice with a familiar southern twang adds.

The blue hedgehog’s eyebrows hastily rise. “Wait, did you two just agree on something?”

Rarity and Applejack glance at each other and smile in response. “I suppose we did,” Rarity tilts her head. “It’s not often that we stand on common ground.”

A loud gasp draws everyone's attention to a certain pink party pony as she now dons an equine version of military battle armor.

“The end is neigh, run for the hills!” Pinkie shouts as she attempts to bolt, but ends running in place for a few moments as a glove hand grabs onto her puffy tail. “What the hay? Let go!”

The owner of the glove appendage releases there hold and give the party pony an amused smirk. “Calm down, Pinkie. The world isn’t coming to an end. Rares and AJ just agreed on something.” Sonic ponders for a moment as he taps his chin. “However, the former does seem more likely, now that I think about it.”

Rarity lets out a huff at the statement as Pinkie processes what the hedgehog just said.

“Oh good point, things would have ended if that’s all it took.” The mare glances at the two ponies in question. “This isn’t the first time is it?”

“Most certainly not!” Rarity retorts. “We’ve agreed on dozens of things before.”

“Like what?”

“Like that one time we…uh…or that one instance we…” The alabaster mare grits her teeth. “Alright, when we agree doesn’t matter. All you need to know is that we’ve done so in the past.”

Noticing the building hostility; the lilac cat clears her throat to get everyone’s attention.

“Be as it may,” Blaze begins as she glances at the members of group before continuing. “That is a matter for another time. We came here to attend an event the night princess set up, not debate on petty squabbles.” The cat turns to the lavender mare.”Twilight, I believe you are in possession of the invitation that was sent.”

“Huh?” Twilight tears her gaze away from her feuding friends and summons the invitation with her magic. “I think it starts at nine.” The lavender mare unravels the scroll and points at something with her hoof. “Yep right here. ‘Proceedings start at nine at the old Canterlot stage. Show up early, seating is limited.’” The mare furrows her brow and looks up from the parchment. “I never did ask, why there of all places?” Twilight shrugs and poofs the scroll away with her magic.

“And it’s-” Sonic begins as he waves his hand and a gold pocket watch appears. He then flicks it open. “…a quarter past seven. So we have plenty of time.”

Blaze raises an eyebrow as she glances at the object in the hedgehog’s hand; while a smile appears on her face. “I’m pleased to see that you are still possession of that.”

Sonic glances over at the lilac cat and then back towards the watch in his hand. “Are you kidding? I love this thing. Plus, it still keeps time, despite being probably being knocked around quite a bit..” The hedgehog says with a cheeky expression.

“What’s so special about that beat up old watch?” Rainbow Dash inquires as she motions to the object in the hedgehog’s hand with a hoof. “Sonic is always messing with it, but he never mentioned why he carries it.”

“I gave it to him.” Blaze says flatly as she frowns at the pegasus’s remark. “I acquired it and gave it to Sonic as a token of appreciation.” The cat turns to the blue hedgehog and holds out a gloved hand. “May I?” Sonic nods as he flicks the cover back over the watch and hands it to Blaze.

“Why would Sugarhog, need ta carry ah watch?” Applejack speaks up as she watches the exchange take place. “Ah mean he’s faster than anypony ah known. So why would ya need to keep da time?”

Blaze looks up at the farm pony and then back towards the watch in her hand. “True as that may be, Sonic has a tendency to get lost in the thrill of one of his runs and would lose track of time.” The cat says with a smirk, prompting a small chuckle from the hedgehog.

Rainbow Dash lets out her own amused laugh at the remark and turns to the lilac cat. “I know what that’s like. You get so lost in the moment that you forget about everything else around you.”

“Or miss important appointments.” Twilight mutters to herself.

The pegasus’s head snaps towards the lavender mare. “Hey, I said I was sorry! I lost track of time. What else do you want me to say?”

Rarity lets out an annoyed huff at the impending argument and places a hoof on each of the mare’s shoulders. “Girls, let us not fight. We came to the capital to enjoy ourselves, not argument with each other.”

Both mares mutter out inaudible remarks as they turn way from each other. While Sonic and Blaze stare at the situation unfold.

“That was very unexpected.” Blaze states with a confused expression.

Sonic chuckles at the cat’s remark. “Yeah, I’ll say. Who says chivalry is dead?”

The alabaster mare snubs her nose at the two comments and turns towards the two mares from earlier. “Besides we need to ‘correct’ the costume issue my good friend Twilight is having at the moment.”

“Nevermind.” The cat deadpans.

“Always with a hidden agenda.” Sonic adds.

Rarity lets out a lady-like scoff and turns back towards the lavender mare. “Come along everypony, we only have a few hours before the event begins and I’d hate to see things get delayed any further.”

The group lets out a collective grown and begins following the mare towards one of Canterlot's districts.

“I still don’t see what the big deal is.” Sonic says as he follows the others. “I mean is it some form of taboo that Twi and I are dressed in the same costume?”

“Not quite.” Rarity laments. “But ponies may get the wrong idea if you continue wearing what you have on.”

Pinkie bounces next to the alabaster mare. “Like what? That Twilight and Spiky are totally unoriginal and couldn’t think of anything unique?” The mare dramatically gasps. “That’s terrible.”

“That is one possible theory, Pinkie.” Rarity says through gritted teeth. “Another is that…”

Applejack and Rainbow Dash begin snickering, prompting the mare to cut herself off. “What’s so funny?”

“I think I know what’s going on here.” Sonic states with a huge grin.

“Really now? Rarity says with a annoyed tone.”And would that be?”

“Y-you’re jealous!” Fluttershy speaks up; breaking her silence since they arrived; prompting everyone to turn towards the mare.

“Me, jealous? How preposterous. Why would you think I would be jealous of something as trivial as that?”

“Because it makes them look like a couple.” The butter yellow pegasus says with a stern tone. “And that bothers you, because you want everypony to think that you and Sonic are one.” She gestures towards the fashionista’s costume. “That’s why you dressed as a witch.”

Rarity blinks at Fluttershy’s acquisition (not acquisition, accusation) as she opens and closes her mouth several times, trying to form a sentence.

“I believe you’re over thinking this situation a bit.” A familiar voice says as a gloved hand is placed on Fluttershy’s head. “It’s just a coincidence, right, Twilight?” Sonic asks as he gestures towards the lavender mare. Said mare is sitting on her haunches, giggling to herself as she blushes profusely and taps her four hooves together. “Right.” The hedgehog says turning back to the butter yellow Pegasus.

Fluttershy’s ears droop back as she processes what the hedgehog just said. “I guess you’re right.” The mare weakly smiles as she looks up at Sonic. “I don’t what came over me.” She frowns. “I’m sorry everypony.”

“It’s cool,” Sonic says he scratches the mare behind the ears. “I think everyone’s just a bit on edge lately.” He glances at Rainbow Dash and then gestures towards the others.”Right guys?” The group mutters out various forms of agreement. “Shall we?” Fluttershy nods and joins the others.

Sonic attempts to do the same, but is stopped as a gloved hand is placed on his shoulder. The hedgehog turns towards the source and spots the Sol Princess staring back at him. “What’s up Blaze?”

“Could I speak with you for a moment?” the cat responds firmly with a hint of desperation in her voice. “Alone.”

The hedgehog raises en eye brow at the feline’s request, but then shrugs it off before responding. “No problem, let me just tell the others real quick." Blaze nods. “Hey guys, wait up.” The group stops and turns towards Sonic.

“What’s up Sugarhog?” Applejack inquires with a tilt of her head.

“We gotta go, or else we’ll never near the end of it.” Rainbow Dash adds as she gives the alabaster mare a quick glance.

“Blaze has to talk to me about something.” Sonic begins as he gestures toward the lilac cat with his thumb. “You guys go ahead, we’ll catch up. Where should we meet?”

Rarity steps forward and loops up at the hedgehog. “There is this quaint little shop just off of Hooves Street.” She gestures towards the road in front of her with a hoof. “Just take this road three blocks down and take a right. It has a pony shoe and a mask on the sign. You can’t miss it.”

“Got’cha.” Sonic says with thumbs up. “We’ll meet you there.”

“Don’t take too long.” The mare says with a smirk, which shifts to a serious one. “Also, please do be careful. Even though this is Canterlot, there are still some riff raff that may give you trouble.”

Sonic nods and grins back. “No problem, anyone tries anything, they’ll have us to deal with.” Blaze nods and crosses her arms.

Twilight suddenly trots towards Sonic and gives him a quick nuzzle. “Don’t get into too much trouble.” She smiles coyly as she turns to leave.

“Hold on, what was that?” Sonic asks in a stern tone.

“What was what?” The lavender mare replies as she turns back towards the hedgehog.

“That thing you just did, what does it mean?”

Pinkie bounces besides Twilight. “It’s sort of like a farewell shake or hug.”

Sonic crosses his arms and gives the mare a stern look. “No, that’s not it. It’s…”

“She’s marking you with her scent.” Blaze says flatly as she cuts the hedgehog off with a hint of annoyance in her voice.

“I-I am not!” Twilight retorts as her face turns crimson. “W-Why would I do that?”

“Then do tell, Miss Twilight.”

“I-it’s uh..” Fluttershy begins but is cut off by a certain farm pony.

“Ah got this.” Applejack affirms as she steps forward. “You know when Wynona rubs up against your leg whenever you stop by.” Sonic nods. “It’s kinda like that.”

The hedgehog taps his chin as he ponders the reply. “So what your sayings, is that Twilight wants me to scratch her behind her ears and rub her tummy?” Sonic grins and lets out an intrigued hum.” Twilight blushes a deeper shade of crimson as she blinks at Sonic’s comment. “T-that’s not what…”

“BAHAHAHAHA!” Rainbow Dash collapses on her back as she starts to let out a roar of laughter. “I knew you were into strange things, Twilight, but I never thought-” The mare cuts herself off as she attempts to stifle a snicker, but fails and lets out another laugh.

“Actually, I believe you're half right on that claim.” A certain fashionista states as she adjusts her large rimed hat. “It is a form of affection.” She taps her chin with a hoof. “I suppose you could say it’s a little more expressive than a hug, but not as far as a kiss; if that makes any sense. “

“So it’s a pony thing?” Sonic asks with a raised eye brow. “Or am I still off?”

“It’s actually a primal action from back before we became sentient.” Fluttershy adds with as she cowers slightly. “Some of my animal friends still do that and I think the two are connected.”

“I see that makes sense…I guess.”

A certain farm pony and adjusts her hat. "Well now that we've clear up that little misunderstanding, ah think it might be best if we hit the trail. Them shops'll prob'ly only be open for another hour or so. And we all know how Rarity gets when a shop she wants to visit is closes.”

The group mutters out various forms of agreement, while Rarity frowns at the wheat colored mare. “Thank you, Applejack,” The mare says with a hint of annoyance in her voice. “You really have me down so well.”
“No problem.”

“I was being sarcastic.”

“Oh.”

Twilight steps between the two and places a hoof on each of their shoulders. “C’mon you two don’t start already. We’re here to have fun, not fight with one another. Now apologize.”

“But she…” Rarity attempt to retort, but it cut off by the lavender mare.

“I don’t care, just say you’re sorry.”

The alabaster mare lets out a low grunt. “Very well, but I’m only doing it for you Twilight.” She turns to the apple bucking mare. “Applejack, I apologize if I said anything to offend you.”

“Now it’s your turn, Applejack.”

The mare grumbles as she gives Twilight a dirty look. “You serious, Twi.” She lets out a grown. “Fine! Rarity, ah’m sorry for saying all those things about yer obsession with shopping and such.”

Rarity attempt opens her mouth to say something, but is cut off as Twilight directs her back towards the road. “Now that we’ve gotten all that cleared up. Let’s go to this shop you were so eager to show us.” She leans closer to the while unicorn. “Right Rarity.” The mare nods. “Good, lead the way.” Twilight turns back towards Sonic and Blaze. “We’ll meet you there, OK?”

With a little ‘persuasion’ the group trots off, leaving the hedgehog and feline starting at their departure with both expression of both worry and fear.

“Remind me to never piss her off.” Blaze comments as she tugs at her collar. “I imagine it’s not something you’d want to be involved in.”

“No you do not.” Sonic adds as he scratches the back of his head.

The lilac cat glances at the hedgehog and then cringes as she watches the departing group. “I’ll take your word for it.” She places a hand on Sonic’s shoulder. “Shall we?”

***

As the group departs, Rarity glances over her shoulder just as Blaze leads Sonic down a side street. The mare lets out a snort followed by a grown as she turns back towards the others. Applejack takes notice of this and trots alongside the fashionista.

“What’cha lookin’ at Rares?” The apple bucking mare inquires. “Ya seem distracted by somethin’.”

Rarity lets out a sigh and maintains her pace. “Oh nothing Applejack, I was just thinking about something.”

“Mind if ah ask, what’s got ya so flustered?”

The unicorn waves a dismissive hoof towards the mare. “Nothing you should worry about. Just something I need to handle on my own.”

“If ya say so Rares.”

Pinkie notices the two mares as the end of the group springs towards them. “Hey, what’cha guys talking about?”

“Nothing important, just speaking with Applejack here about a trivial matter. No need to worry.”

The party mare narrows her eyes for a moment, but then shifts back to her usual happy expression and bounces away. “Whatever you say,”

Rarity lets out a mental sigh and attempts to steer the conversation else ware. “So Twilight, I see you and Sonic made up.”

Said mare starts to blush and smiles sheepishly. “Yeah, I guess we did.” She lets out a nervous laugh. “Turns out I was just exaggerating the whole thing. Would you believe that?”

The group lets out various forms of agreement

“HEY!”

***

As a certain feline ventures down the winding streets, Sonic is more or less dragged behind Blaze as he maintains a firm hold on her gloved hand. Stopping before an alleyway, the cat glances to her left and then right before continuing onward.

Releasing her grip on the hedgheog’s hand the Sol ruler lets her hands fall to the side and looks up at Sonic with an apologetic look.

“Sorry for brining you all the way here, but I wanted to make sure we didn’t get interrupted.” She fiddles with the hem of her dress. “It’s kind of important.”

Sonic raises an eyebrow at the cat’s odd behavior, only shift to one of this trademark smiles and cross his arms. “No problem, Blaze. What’s up?”

The feline continues to fiddle with the hemline and stares at her feet. “I’m not very good at this sort of thing. So please excuse me if I may say something foolish.”

“What is it?” Sonic asks as he places a hand on the cat’s shoulder. “You can tell me.”

Blaze looks up at a set of caring emerald eyes and begins blushing as she looks away. “I would like your help with a matter. No,” She turns back towards the hedgehog with a stern expression. “I need your help with this.”

“Sure, what do you need?” The hedgehog replies nonchalantly as if what the cats about to say would be trivial.

The cat blinks at the reply than then goes back to fiddling with her skirt. “I’ve been in this land for almost a month now. And don’t get me wrong, it’s a wondrous land, but…”

“But what?”

“I can feel myself getting weaker with each passing day.” Blaze looks up at the hedgehog. “In time I fear that I may become a burden for you and the others; when placed in a troublesome situation.”

Sonic gives the cat a cheeky smirk. “So you were wondering if I would help you get back to your A-game?” The cat’s face lightens up at understanding of her request as she begins nodding profusely. “Sure, I’ll help you. Dash and I can always use another combatant during our morning runs.”

Blaze frowns at the suggestion. “Now quite what I had in mind, Sonic. While I appreciate the offer, what I was thinking we’d do some; shall we say one-on-one tactical training?”

“Wait, you want to spar?” The cat nods. “I thought you were getting plenty of that with Twilight?”

“Not quite,” Blaze begins as she looks back up at the hedgehog. “We have not reached the point of combat training yet, plus I do not know her capabilities at the moment. I fear that one of us may be injured if I were to try anything of the sort at this time.”

“Good point, good point.” Sonic ponders as he taps his chin. “That would be bad if one of you guys got hurt.”

“Exactly, thus why I’m asking for your assistance.”

“And here I thought it was because we were friends.” The hedgehog says with mock annoyance. “I guess I was wrong.”

The feline smirks and places a finger over Sonic’s lips. “Oh shush, you know that’s also the reason.” Her expression turns serious. “You’re the only one I can ask to help me with this. So, can I count on your assistance?” Blaze asks as she smiles hopefully.

“No problem,” The hedgehog replies as he messages his right shoulder. “Been getting a bit rusty myself, I could use a little action.” Blaze raises an eyebrow at the last statement. “You know what I mean.”

“I do,” The Sol guardian replies as she claps Sonic’s hands with her own. “And thank you, I just…thank you.”

Sonic frowns at the gesture. “What no hug?”

Blaze blinks at the question and then lets out an amused chuckle. “I was worried it may be inappropriate, but I guess….” The cat cuts herself off as she wraps the hedgehog in a warm embrace. “Thank you.”

“No problem, Blaze.”

“I don’t know what I would do without you, Sonic.”

***

-Meanwhile…

“No, that’s not it, heavens no, my word what ponies would willing to go out in public dressed as that?”

Arriving at one of Canterlot’s ‘modest’ shops that dot the square. A certain fashionista gets to work, finding a suitable replacement for her unicorn friend. The ‘modest’ shop resides in a part of town that easily dwarfs anything in Ponyville. Its long rows upon rows of costumes of ‘any occasion’, (with the more risky ones kept in back) will overload any normal ponies' choices. However, to an experienced seamstress and designer, it gives them a template to work with on ‘what’s in season’ or the current fashion.

Said designer tears trough the shop like her life depends on it. Examining the various wares with the eyes only a season member of the fashion world can archive. To anyone viewing this without prior knowledge would see a rabbit mare trashing a reputable shop; while shouting obscenities.

However, her friends and thankfully the shop keep know otherwise. Other than a few words of agreement or disagreement on certain garments ’distastefulness’, the others kept away from the alabaster mare as she tirelessly searched for the ‘perfect costume.’

Rainbow Dash and Twilight examine the various fantasies and legend costumes; with lavender librarian comment on how ‘inaccurate’ some of the designs are or how impractical a certain set of robes/ armor would be ineffective in actual combat.

While Fluttershy, goes through the numerous animal costumes, a scant few portraying the creature to be ferocious, while most make them appear overly cuddly and huggable; much to the butter yellow pegasus’s delight.

“Consarnit! Son of a….*groan*” A certain farm pony shouts as she searches through one of the various shelves. “That’s the tenth one ah found in five minutes and Ponyville hasn’t had one in eight years!”

Pinkie appears behind the irritated earth pony. “What’s up, AJ?” The party pony inquires as she glances at the pile of assorted costumes sitting next to the apple bucking mare. “Something wrong with those costumes, there?”

Applejack lets out a sigh. “Hi Pinkie, no there’s nothing wrong with the costumes. It’s just,” The mare turns to the pinkie party pony. “Ah’ve been looking for a costume like this since I was my sis’s age. It was at Tools n’ Tact.”

“Toot and what?”

“Tool n’ Tact, it was one of those everythin’ stores you sometimes see, when ya venture towards the more ritzy places. Don’t really recall why it closed, ah think it had somethin' ta do with the owners son inheriting it and selling it off. But no pony really remembers the place and the building was torn town when they expanded the Town Hall ten years ago.” Applejack scrunches her muzzled before continuing. “Anyways, when Nightmare Night came around that year, ah one just likes this at the shop.” She gestures towards a while robe on top of the pile. “Only the owner wanted way too many bits for it. Somethin’ about it being ‘real rare’ or some nonsense like that.” The mare lets out an annoyed huff as she continues grumbling at the costume rack.

The pink party pony lifts one of the discarded garments and examines it. “So, uh what’cha gonna do with these?”

“Buy them!” The wheat color mare says flatly as she adds another one to the pile.

Pinkie’s eyes go wide. “All of them? Applejack, there must be like 20 here and you…..”

“Ok, maybe not all of them.” The farm pony interrupts. “But, ah’d like at least one of these to wear next year.”

“I see,” Pinkie Pie comments as she lifts one of the costumes. “Samurai Applejack….that’s actually pretty neat

“Ah, thought so…”

***

Navigating through the busy city streets, two figures casually stroll pass the various costumes ponies; some giving the two a second glance as they trot past. While most acknowledging the two with a nod or a casual ‘good evening.’

Blaze glances as some of the on lookers and shoots them an annoyed snarl; eliciting a gasp, followed by a hasty retreat.

Sonic raises an eyebrow at the feline as they continue to walk and then lets out an amused chuckle. “Blaze relax, most of these ponies haven’t seen creatures like us before.”

“I am not a thing to be stared at!” The Sol guardian says with a huff.

“I agree, but that’s how it’s going to be for a while. Besides,” Sonic begins with a smirk. “You shouldn’t let these Canterlot ones get to you. Most of them have their heads too far up their butts that they’ve long since forgotten what sunlight looks like; much less what fresh air is.”

The cheeky remark gains an amused giggle from the lilac cat, while a few passerby's let out a stuffy scoff and continue trotting with their heads held high.

“You’re probably right,” Blaze says between her poorly controlled laugh. “I shouldn’t let some stuffy noble dictate my every action.”

“That’s the spirit,” Sonic encourages with a thumbs up. “Be who you want to be, not what everyone else wants you to be.”

“No truer works have been spoken.” Blaze states with a solemn nod.

The blue hedgehog scratches his nose and lets out an amused chuckle. “Thanks, I have my moments.” He lowers his hand and glances down the busy street. “Are you sure this ‘shop’ is on this street?”

“Positive, Miss Rarity said it was on Hoovers Avenue.”

“I thought it was on Hooves Street?” Sonic asks with a hint of worry in his voice.

“No, I’m sure it was Hoovers….ah damn! It was Hooves. We’re lost; I have no idea where we are.”

Sonic smirks at pats Blaze on the back. “Don’t worry, we’ll fine it.” A sound of an overhead bell cuts the hedgehog off as a familiar mare steps out. “See, there’s Twilight. The others can’t be far behind.

Blaze ponders the thought as the hedgehog walks ahead. “Why would Twilight be…?” Then the cat puts the pieces together. “Sonic wait, that’s not Twilight.”

The hedgehog stops just before the now approaching mare and gives the feline a confused look. “What are you talking about? Of course it’s Twilight.” He gestures towards the mare. “I mean who else could it be?”

Said mare stops before Sonic and glances up at him. “Uh hello.”

“Hey Twi, what up?” The hedgehog asks giving the mare a cheeky grin and then starts looking around. “Where are the others?”

“’Twilight’ shifts back and forth on her hooves as she maintains eyes contact. “Uh, it’s just me here. I wasn’t with anyone else.”

Sonic frowns. “What did the others go on ahead? Nice costume by the way, I almost didn’t…”
The hedgehog cuts himself off as he pulls the mare out of the path of a past approaching rickshaw. “Hey, watch where you’re going!” Sonic shouts back as turns back towards the unicorn now in his arms. “Are you alright, Twilight?”

“I keep trying to tell you…” Blaze begins, but is cut off by the faux Twilight.

“I’m fine.” She then smiles. “Thank you.”

“Hey no problem, just doing…”

“SONIC!”

Everyone turns to the sudden shout, just as a certain lavender mare rounds a corner and begins trotting down the avenue. Said mare, now sporting something you’d see in Egypt. Jet mascara covers the unicorns lids; with one ornate symbol of Ra over her right eye. An ornate head piece rests on her head as a majority of her body is covered in a white dress that sits snugly on her frame. Gold gauntlets cover the bottom parts of her legs; just above the hoof. Each incrusted in some form of precious gems. A necklace just as ornate as the head dress drapes over the mare’s shoulders. Looking more like shoulder guards, instead of a piece of jewelry. While a fancy gold belt completes the outfit; wrapping around the middle of the unicorns barrel.

The lavender mare skids to a stop just before the group and kneels down as she attempts to catch her breath.

“W-where have you been?” *gasp* “I’ve been looking all over for you?”

“Twilight?” Sonic begins as he looks at the panting mare and then at the one still in his arms.

“S-sonic isn’t an easy mistake, that’s my…”

“You never told me you had a little sister.” Sonic says, as he cuts the mare off.

“W-what?”

“Come again?” Blaze adds in a confused tone.

The mare in Sonic’s arms chuckles to herself as she looks up at hedgehog and then towards the nerdy librarian. “Try again, dear.”

Sonic sets the mare down and scratches the back of his head. “Uh ok, you’re her big sister then?”

“Sonic that’s my…”

“Let him figure it out.” The mare says, cutting Twilight off. “Try again, Sweet heart.” She continues with an amused smile.

“Hm,” The hedgehog ponders for a moment. “Your, Twilight’s cousin?”

“Nope, still wrong keep going.”

Twilight rolls her eyes, while Blaze crosses her arms across her chest.

“Well if you’re not sisters or cousins, then all that leaves is,” Sonic stops midsentence. “No, I must have missed something. There is no way that you’re Twilights…”

“Mother?” The mare finishes, which a smirk. “That, I am.”

Sonic opens and closes his mouth trying to form a response to this sudden revelation; much to the elder mare’s amusement.

“Would it make you feel better to know that you aren’t the only one that has confused us as siblings?” The hedgehog slowly nods. “Well then rest assured, you aren’t the first and probably not the last.”

Twilight lets out an annoyed grown and teleports between the two. “Well now that you met, we should really get going. The other are…”

“Now don’t be rude, Twilight.” The mare chastises as she gives her daughter a stern look. “At least let me introduce myself. It’s not every day that one gets to meet the famed Sonic.” She smiles and looks up at the hedgehog. “Plus, up until a few moments ago, your colt friend thought I was you.”

“Say what now?” Sonic begins.

“C-colt friend?” Twilight adds with a heavy blush.

“When did this happen?” Blaze asks as she gives the lavender mare and blue hedgehog an annoyed look.

“M-mom, h-how did you come to that conclusion!” Twilight studiers as she attempts to regain her composure. “We're not in that sort of relationship. Yeah, I mean it’s clear how I feel about him, but…”

The elder mare raises an eyebrow at the unicorn’s outburst. “Really now?” A scroll proofs into existence. “From what you said in your letters. I was under the impression that you two where already dating for a while and that your father and I should be expecting some grand children soon.”

Twilight turns red as a tomato, just as Blaze grits her teeth in rage; while horribly attempting to hide her annoying in the matter.

Sonic takes notice of his friend’s plight and snatches the scroll away from the elder mare. “Let me see that.”

The mare opens her mouth to reply, but is cut off as a gust of wind blasts past her.

“Let see here,” Sonic begins as he unrolls the parchment and starts reading over it. “Just letting you know….Blah, blah, blah, ‘That Sonic I told you about did something really amazing.’….of course.” The hedgehog continues to mutter as he reads the letter. “Is it wrong that I….” Stopping midsentence, Sonic glances over at Twilight and then towards the elder mare. “Unless I read this wrong, is just says that Twilight enjoys spending time with me.” He frowns, “How does that translate to all that nonsense you just said miss…uh”

“Velvet, Twilight Velvet, but you can call me the latter. It’s less confusing that way.”

“Right,” Sonic replies still frowning. “So tell me, Miss Velvet how did you come up with that?”

The mare pouts as she folds her ears back. “I guess you’re right, my daughter spoke so highly of you. I naturally assumed that you two were together.” She looks up at the blue hedgehog. “Not that I would have anything against that, mind you. I’ve read in the papers, about how to saved Twilight and her friends on more than one occasion. Plus, you’re the only stallion my daughter has spoken of so fondly that wasn’t family or some long dead spell caster from the dark ages.”

Twilight frowns at her mother’s statement, but keeps quiet and lets her finish.

“So forgive me for thinking that my daughter has finally found somepony.” Velvet says with a hint of sadness in her voice. “Not many approach Twilight, must less talk to her. On the count of her being the Princess’s student and that many are intimidated by her abilities.”

The lavender mare opens her mouth to protest that claim, but stops as Sonic pats the elder mare on the head. “You were just worried about your daughter.” The hedgehog grins as he removes his hand. “It’s cool.”

Velvet process the hedgehogs comment for a moment before responding. “A couple or not, you mean the world to my daughter.” Twilight opens her mouth to interrupt, but stops as her mother gives her a stern look. “So take care of her, treat her right and make me not regret giving you a chance.”

Looking up at Blaze, the mare gives the cat an uneasy smile. “My daughter has spoken highly of you, Miss Blaze. I’d like stay and chat, but I was actually on my way to something and know that you three aren’t heading in the same direction. So we’ll have to wait till next time to talk.”

The Sol guardian nods and gives the mare a small bow.

Velvet turns to leave, but stops and looks back at the three. “Next time you’re in Canterlot. Swing by, I’d like to introduce you to the rest of the family.”

The three watches the mare disappear in the distance, none saying a word to each other as Velvet trots out of sight.

“Well that was weird.” Sonic laments; breaking the silence.

“Indeed.” Blaze adds as she crosses her arms.

“Sorry guys I should have warned you.” Twilight says with a saddened tone as she lowers her head.

“Hey no problem Twi,” A friendly voice says as a gloved hand tilts the mare’s head upwards. “Everyone’s parents are weird. It’s just a good thing we got the over protective mother bit out of the way first.”

The lilac cat clears her throat, to get everyone’s attention. “I don’t mean to interrupt, but where are the others and how far are we away from this ‘theater’?”

“Not far,” Twilight replies. “And everypony else is there waiting for us.” She turns to the two and smiles sheepishly. “I can get us there in a jiffy, but I need to teleport us; any objections?”

Both Sonic and Blaze shake their heads.

“Good, now hang on. The magic disturbance is little strong today.”

Sonic opens his mouth to comment, but is cut off as a blinding light consumes his vision and he’s forced to shield his eyes.

In a blast of light the three disappear out of sight.

Next Chapter Preview:

Sonic: "Well you don't see that everyday."

Applejack: "Ah reckon things are about to get a lot more interesting."

Rarity: "Gracious, what is that?"

Luna: "Huzzah, let the games begin!"

Nightmare on Duchess Street

Nightmare on Duchess Street

The trio appears within an ornate section of Canterlot, with a burst of pink magic and a muffled sizzling sound. Ancient statues of many famous ponies line the city streets. Each in various possesses. Some are holding an instrument or old tome, while others hold some form of archaic weapon in their mouths or wings.

Sonic glances around and gives an impressed whistle as he glances at some of over the top architecture dominating most of the area around them.

“You ponies sure know how to make an impression. These look like you’d need to some serious coin to afford something like this.” He frowns. “Also, why do I suddenly have a craving for some bacon?”

Twilight tilts her head inquisitively. “What’s bacon?”

“Well it’s…”

“N-never mind, Twilight,” Blaze interrupts, inciting a frown from Sonic. “It’s nothing you need to worry about.” She gives the hedgehog an apologetic look and continues. “Anyway, where have you brought us?”

The mare gives the feline a smug look as she prepares for what will mostly be a lengthy explanation. “We are in the Castle District. One of the oldest parts of Canterlot and the only area that remains untouched by modernization boom in the last era.” Sonic opens his and points at Twilight to say something, but is stopped as the mare continues. “This here is sub area that many call the Culture District. Where most of our music halls, museums, and libraries are located; among other things.” Twilight quickly adds. “It is also where many foreign trades take place outside of…”

Hey, you guys!” A familiar voice shouts, breaking the mare away from her train of thought.
“Where many foreign trades occur outside of the Market Square and….”

“SONIC!” Another familiar voice shouts; following the sound of fast hoof steps.

The blue hedgehog turns toward the source of the voice and mutters out a few obscenities. “Ah, shi-“

A flash of pink collides with the hedgehog and sends him toppling end over a few meters. Sonic comes to a sudden stop as he lands in his back and spots a familiar pink party pony looming over him.

“Hi Pinkie,” The hedgehog grows as he frees one of his hands from under the mare and rubs his head. “You really have to stop greeting me like this. I’m not made out of magic pony rubber that you obviously are.” He says with a smirk.

The pink mare giggles, rolls off the downed hedgehog and offers a hoof to help him up. “Sorry Spiky, but glomping you is just so much fun.”

“So I’ve been told.” Sonic says dryly.

Pinkie blows a raspberry in response before continuing. “Oh, don’t be like that. Not many get a special Pinkie tackle. Besides,” She gives Sonic a sultry smirk. “You used to like it when I pounced you.”

“I said that one time and it was a joke.” The hedgehog replies bluntly; completely missing the undertone of the mare’s comment. “Besides, you told me you’d stop doing that.”

The pink mare’s ears fold back as she pouts, inciting a nervous twitch from the hedgehog. Pinkie opens her mouth to make a comment, but is cut off by a certain lilac cat.

“Sonic has made it quite clear that he wishes for you to stop ‘glomping’ him. I’ve been present during two such events where he evaded your advancement and asked you to refrain from continuing.” Blaze states firmly as she crosses her arms across her chest. “Besides, I’ve looked into this kind of behavior and it suggests that…”

“But Spikey is my bestest-best friend!” The pink mare defends as she interrupts the feline. “What kind of friend would I be if I didn’t show him how much I care about him if I didn’t give him a hug whenever I saw him?”

Twilight shakes her head and exasperates a loud sigh. “There are so many things wrong with that statement that’d I’d need a bulletin board to list them off to you." The mare face-hooves. “Look, can you just stop doing that to Sonic? Regardless if it’s an expression of your affection or not, Sonic has made it quite clear that he doesn’t like you tackling him like you have.”

“Yeah, that right is only reserved for you.” Pinkie says coldly.

The lavender mare tilts her head. “I’m sorry, what was that?”

“You heard me!”

Both mare growl at each other as both appear ready start whaling on each other. Sonic picks up on the building hostility and steps between the two and places a hand on each of their shoulders.

“Whoa, hold on you two. You guys need to calm down. What the hell is going on with you two? You guys are friends, you two look like you’re about to bring the smack down on each other here.” Sonic sighs and turns to Pinkie. “I know that whole ‘glomping’ bit is your thing, but I really wish you’d stop. If you want to give me a hug every so often that’s fine, but just not while your barreling at me like a freight train.” He then turns to Twilight. “And you need to stop being so over protective. I know you’re worried about me, but I think you’re over doing it a bit. Ease off some and you’ll see what I mean.”

Sonic then rubs each of the mare’s shoulders and then continues. “We’re all friends here, let’s not sweat the small stuff and enjoy ourselves.”

Pinkie blinks and then starts shaking her head, as she collects herself. “Spiky is right, we’ve both been acting like silly fillies lately.” She holds out a hoof towards Twilight. “We still friends?”

The lavender mare smiles at the pink party pony and mashes her hoof with Pinkie's. “Of course we’re friends. Things have just been on edge recently.”

I’ll say,” Pinkie laments. “It’s like everypony is just having a bad day lately." She tilts her head. “Maybe Spiky was right. There might be something in the drinking water.”

Sonic opens his mouth to respond to the mare, but is cut off as a gloved hand is placed on his shoulder. Looking to the gloves owner, the hedgehog spots a smiling Blaze looking back at him.

“That was rather thoughtful of you, Sonic.”

The hedgehog lets out a chuckle and scratches the back of his head. “Thanks, I have my moments.” He lowers her hand and turns back towards Pinkie. “So where are the others, Pinks? They can’t be too far away if you were able to find us so easily.”

“Oh, there right over there.” Pinkie responds as she gestures towards something with her hoof. “I’ll take them to you.”

***

Following the pink party pony, the three are lead to a most congested section of the District and towards a massive while marble building; where most of the crowd seems to be originating from.

Large pillars rise from the earth and into the sky; easily dwarfing the already massive buildings around it. Each spaced several feet apart and connected by another deck and two more rows of pillars. Giving way to an even larger dome that sits even higher than the supports it’s connected to. Several sets of vines also seem to have take room along the pillars and supporting deck; some even with several variations of fruit and flowers. Giving the building a more coliseum feel, rather than that of a music hall.

Sonic lets out a low whistle as he cranks his neck to look up at the structure. “Ok, I take back what I said. This shows that you ponies know how to make buildings.”

Twilight rolls her eyes at the comment and opens her mouth to retort, but spots a familiar blue alicorn amongst the crowd. The mare narrows her eyes as she attempt to focus. “Is that…”

“Hey, it’s Princess Luna!” Pinkie enthusiastically states as she start bouncing towards the mare. “C’mon, the princess said she wanted to meet us before…whatever she has planned for tonight.”

The three nod and follow the bouncing party pony thought the dense crowd.

***

As they navigate through the ever growing crowd. The three spot a few familiar faces as they approach the princess. “Good heavens, where have you been? We’ve been looking all over for you.” Rarity comments as she steps past a blue female unicorn. “You had us searching everywhere.”

“Yeah, it’s not easy looking you in this mass of crazy.” A certain speedy pegasus adds as she joins the alabaster mare. “You’d think you guys would be easy to spot, but no, that would have been too easy. There are at least a dozen ponies dressed as you in this area alone.”

“Ya had us almost ready to start knockin’ on random pony’s doors hopin’ to find ya.” Applejack as she stops near Rainbow Dash.

“I’m just glad to see that you’re all safe.” Fluttershy adds quietly as she appears behind Rarity.

Sonic smirks at the now reunited elements bearer and crosses his arms. “So, you guys were worried about me?”

Rarity takes a few steps forward, closing the distance between her and the blue hedgehog. “Of course we were. After finding Twilight a more suitable costume for the occasion, we searched all over. Even going back to where we originally departed, hoping that we’d be able to find you.”

“This here city is awfully big, we figured you got yerself lost and split up. We was hopin' to find ya and such.” Applejack adds as she gives the fashionista a smirk. “Rares here got herself lost the first time she visited and that was with a map.”

The alabaster mare opens her mouth to comment on the mare’s claim, but is cut off as a Rainbow Dash steps between then. “All that matters is that everypony is here now. We even asked Twilight to do one of her fancy tracking spells to find you.” She turns to the lavender mare. “What happened with that? We all guessed that you’d be the first to find him and lead him back here.”

Twilight smiles sheepishly and begins pawing at the ground with a hoof. “I actually did find Sonic shortly after casting the spell, but we ran into some complications on our back way back here.”

“Like what?” Pinkie inquires as she turns towards the mare.

“Well, “The mare begins as she looks at her hooves. “We ran into my mother and things got….difficult.”

“Yeah, that was odd.” Sonic states as he chuckles to himself.

Rarity raises an eyebrow at the two comments and pushes past Rainbow Dash. “Really now, what did your mother have to say?” She smiles hopefulness and puts a hoof on the mare’s shoulder. “Please tell me it was good.”

“She thought the two were dating.” Blaze states flatly with a hint of annoyance in her voice. “She even went as far as to ask when she should be expecting grand children.”

Everyone snaps towards the lilac cat and stares at her in disbelief; even a few passersby’s that caught fragments of the conversation turned towards the Sol Ruler.

“Good heavens.”

“No way!”

“If ah heard from another pony, I’d be inclined to call you a liar. But knowing you ah know that ya always speak the truth.”

“Oh my.”

Pinkie lets out a snort and attempts to hold back a laugh. “Sonic and Twilight…settling down and…and” The mare trails off as she notices everyone staring at her. “Why isn’t anypony laughing? Am I the only one that finds this hilarious?”

“I don’t see why it’s so funny.” Twilight says as she blushes as she continues to scrap her hoof along the stone street.

“I think it’s just a mom thing.” Sonic laments as everyone turns in his direction. “We’ve all been there. So let’s just leave it at that.”

Rarity adjusts the brim of her hat and smiles at the blue hedgehog. “I’d have to agree with Sonic. Our parents, siblings, or just members of our family seem to know ‘what’s best for us’ at times they sometimes attempt to play the hooves of fate with our love lives.” She turns to the others before continuing. “Am I right, Everypony?”

The groups lets out varied forms of agreement and shifts side to side or fidget in place; as if not comfortable with the situation. While Sonic claps his hands together loudly in hopes of get everyone’s attention.

“Good, now that’s settled,” He turns to Rainbow Dash. “What did you mean by others dressed like me?”

The mare opens her mouth to response, but cuts herself off as a group of young fillies and colts zip past them; each donning a variation of one of the costumes Sonic saw the CMC wearing a while back; some even in full blue body suits of various kinds with spikes running along their backs. While others have the just the hat, but have ‘hoof gloves’ on their front hooves and pony version of his trademark running shoes on their backs. One of the lesser dressed versions stops before the hedgehog and gives him small smile.

“Nice Sonic costume, but his eyes are green not red.” The filly trails off as she glances as the other addition to his attire. “Also, he doesn’t wear a cape.”

Sonic lets out a sigh and rubs the bridge of his nose. “Thank you, now move along now; it’s easy to get lost in this crowd.”

The filly nods and trots off and catches up to her friends.

A few members of the group poorly hide an amused chuckle as they snicker at the event that just unfolded before them.

“Don’t. You. Even. Dare.”

***

Emerging from the dense crowd, the group ventures towards the Night Princess as she greets a few passersby with a few of her bat ponies doing the same. Luna’s face light up as she spots the gang heading towards here.

“Greeting and salutations my friends, we are ever so pleased to see that you were able to arrive safely.” The princess’s grin intensifies as she locks eyes with Sonic. “And we are especially pleased that you are here as well.”

A few members of the group raise an eyebrow at the statement, only to let out an audible gasp at what the princess does next.

Standing on her hind legs, the Night Princess wraps her forelegs around the hedgehog and pulls him into a hug. Sonic’s legs dangle back and forth as he’s lifted several feet into the air, while Luna nuzzles his face with hers. “Huzzah, what a joyous event this has become with you here.” The mare all but squeezes as a few passing ponies give the event an odd look before continuing on their way. While a few of the bat ponies grumble a few words in annoyance. “Oh, what fun we shall have when…” The princess stops mid sentence as she notices a certain Burmese cat giving her a hard look, while taking an attack position. “Is something the matter, young Blaze?”

“You are not the Princess of the Night! Who are you?” The cat growls as smoke start to rise from her clenched fists.

“I am Luna, ruler of the Night and the Realm of Dreams. What makes you think I am not?” The princess asks as her eyes dart back and forth.

Blaze bears her teeth as she gets ready to strike. “I’ve met the Night Princess and you’ve nothing but contradict her usual demeanor just now. Plus,” The cat taps her nose. “You can’t fool this nose; your scent is nothing like Luna’s”

“Yeah, I was going to ask about that.” Sonic states as he looks up at the now shocked faux-princess. “My nose may not be as strong as Blaze’s, but I know when something doesn’t smell right. Plus, Luna has a habit of talking in the third person.”

The others mutter out various forms of disbelief as the fake Luna sets the blue hedgehog back down and begins fidget nervously.

“Miss Blaze is correct, I am not who I appear to be.” The element bearers let out at a gasp in response and begin demanding to know where the real Luna is. The imposter raises a wing to silence them. “Quiet, do you wish to blow my cover?” The mares continue to grumble amounts themselves. “Before everypony jumps to conclusions, you must know that the Princess tasked me personally to greet her subjects while in this form.” The faux-princess waves a hoof dismissively before continuing. “Something about last minute preparations and not being able to greet the ponies and not being able to greet them before the show starts.”

“Well that makes sense,” Twilight begins as she approaches the imposter. “Luna probably wants to make sure whatever she has planned goes out without incident.”

“So, who are you then?” Sonic asks as he looks up at the fake alicorn.

“Misty Breeze,” The faux-princess states. “I was a member of the night guard before Luna’s return. Now I’m part of the elite unit.” She trails off for a moment, before continuing. “Anyway, Luna said she needed a unicorn to hold the illusion. So I was chosen for the task, since my powers are widely known within the ranks.” The fake Luna unfolds her massive wings and grins widely. “And now I have these.” She pouts. “They don’t work, but it’s still cool having them.”

“Well that’s all fine and dandy.” Pinkie says in a less than enthusiastic tone. “Why did you hug Spiky just now?”

The mare now know as Misty Breeze, looks down and starts drawing circles in the grass with one of her hooves. “Well you see, I’m kind of a fan of his.” She looks up and smiles sheepishly. “I’m actually the president of the Caterlot Chapter of his fan club.”

Sonic lets out a groan and face palms. “Of course there's more than one.” He looks up at the faux-princess. “That explains why all those kids were dressed as me.”

Misty Breeze shuffled her hooves as she lets out a nervous chuckle. “Well if it any consolation, that last little bit was all me. The princess just informed me that I needed to greet the ones attending and that I should keep a look out for you folks.” She drapes on her fake wings over the hedgehog. “She also informed me that if you should arrive before the show starts. That she would like your assistance with a matter she’s having trouble with.”

The hedgehog nods and turns towards the others. “I’ll meet you guys inside, after I see what Lulu wants.” He then turns back towards the fake alicorn and motions her to come closer. Misty complies and lowers her head. With a smirk, Sonic tilts her crown at a jaunty angle and then crosses his arms. “There, now we’ll be able to tell you two apart.”

***

Entering the massive complex, the group (minus Sonic) is lead through the winding halls by one of Luna’s Night Guards. The bat pony ushers them up to one of the upper decks and towards the more lavish section of the theater. Picking up on the ever increasing pacts and portraits on the walls, Blaze speaks up and breaks her silence.

“Where are you taking us?”

“The Princesses has asked that you join her in her private box for this event.” The bat mare states flatly, void of any emotion.

“Oh, cool!” Pinkie says putting a little more bounce her steps.

“It’s not every day that the two rulers of Equestria ask us to join them. We shouldn’t keep them waiting.” Rarity adds as she adjusts her oversized hat.

The other members voice various forms of agreement as the Guard stops before a large set of golden doors.

“We are here, please step inside. The Princesses are expecting you.”

“Thank you, miss uhh…” Twilight trails off as she realizes she never got the mare’s name.

“Silent Night, First Lieutenant Silent Night of the Crimson Fury.” The bat pony says with a hint of pride in her voice.

Rainbow Dash pushes past the lavender mare and stops a few inches from the bat pony’s face. “Who’s your commanding officer?”

“Captain Nightshade,” The mare replies fatly as if the question was trivial. “Do you have any other questions, Miss Dash?”

The speedy pegasus blinks at the question for a few moments before shaking her head.

“If there is nothing else that requires my attention. I shall be on my way.” She turns to leave, but stops and turns back towards the group. “Please enjoy the show and give the princess my regards.”

As the bat pony disappears from sight, the element bearers and Blaze turn back to the massive doors. “So, who wants to go first?” The feline asks as she turns back towards the others.

***

As the gang passes through the massive doors, they are greeted by the Solar Princess and an empty seat that belongs to the Night Princess.

“Where’s Princess Luna? I was hoping to speak with her before the proceedings.” Rarity asks as she eyes the empty seat.

“Still making preparations, I’m afraid.” Celestia says with a hint of sadness in her voice. “It seems some of the combatants didn’t show and she’s been trying to find a suitable replacement.”

“Combatants, isn’t this a theater?” Twilight asks inquisitively.

The sun princess smiles at her student. “It can be a number of things. Before we had the funds to add additional structures to the district, this building served several purposes. One of them being a battle arena (while area works, readers will be able to understand better what you mean by saying arena), but most only know it as a theater, since it’s been one for almost a millennia.”

“I take it that’s why Luna is holding the event here.”

Celestia nods, “I gave my sister free reign this year for the night proceedings. Luna insisted that we bring back some of the events of old.”

“I believe this was one of those events?” Blaze inquires as she steps alongside Twilight.

“That is correct.”

“Well shucks, this sounds like right up our alley (alley, not ally. Ally is someone you trust).” Applejack says as she plops down on an empty seat. “It’s been a good long while since I seen somethin’ like this.”

Rainbow Dash sits down next to the apple bucking mare. “I like the cut of your jib, I’m all for seeing some action.”

Fluttershy silently sits down next to Dash, while Pinkie lets out a deafening ‘wee’ and bounces to a seat next to her. Rarity rolls her eyes and takes a spot on the far end, while Twilight and Blaze remain standing.

“Is there a problem?” The sun princess inquires as she looks at her student and the lilac feline.

“Actually, I was wondering.” Twilight taps her hooves together. “If I could sit next to you princess”

Celestia smiles warmly as she gestures to a spot on the massive bench she’s sitting on. “Of course Twilight, but wouldn’t you be more comfortable sitting with your friends, or,” She smiles, “Next to Sonic.” The princess looks around. “Speaking of which, where is he?”

Twilight blushes and looks down as she continues to tap her hooves together. “He’s helping Luna with something and hopefully will be joining us later.”

The princess gives the mare an understanding nod as she watches the mare take seat to her and then draws her attention back to the Sol ruler. “And for you miss Blaze?”

“These seats conflict with my, “ She gestures to herself. “Stature, I was hoping it would be ok if I found seating elsewhere.”

“Why not use my sister's till her return?” The princess says, turning to the empty chair. “I’m sure she won’t mind sharing it when she does and it would be a shame that you have to sit on the lower levels, because of some design oversight.”

Blaze bows and takes a seat in the massive blue chair. “You have my thanks.”

“No mention it,” The Princess says warmly. “Now get ready... the show's about to start.”

***

As several spotlight flicks on, the chatter and noise dies down to a mere whisper. With a puff of blue smoke the Night Princess appears in all her Royal Glory.

“Citizens of Caterlot, of Equestria. We thank you all for attending tonight's proceedings.” Luna’s booming voice echoes along the marble walls. “For many a century, many ponies and other inhabitants of this land were not aware of what this night truly meant. For decades it has been a mockery of sorts, against the darkness that once consumed me, but NO MORE!” A few ponies in the front rows flinch at the slight outburst. “While we will not discourage our ponies from continuing this, we simply ask that you do it out of enjoyment and not to pay tribute to a being that doesn’t deserve it.” Luna stomps her hoof again before continuing. “Before that day so long ago, we held tournaments and battles against the toughest and skilled warriors. Not to the death, as some of the more biased textbooks state, but only till one was unable to battle, incapacitated if you will. These matches were held in the empire to the north, but the nation still rebuilds itself after only just having been freed from Sombra’s reign.” Luna eyes the crowd before continuing. “So we’ll hold it here. It shall be a sufficient substitute for now. Until we can rebuild the true structure to the north.”

A barrier appears around the arena. “We’ve asked every unicorn that has attended this event to lend us their power for this.” The barrier flickers for a moment before disappearing again. “This will protect us from anything within this stage; while also stopping any overzealous patron from interfering with the match.”

The Night Princess gives her elder sister a no before continuing. “Now then, as a dear friend of mine suggested.” Luna takes a dramatic pause. “LET’S GET READY TO RUMBLE!”

***

-Some odd 2 hours later

“Pfft! Can you believe that last guy?” Rainbow Dash asks no one in particular as she watches the area get cleared out of various pieces of broken blocks and clutter. “I am an earth Pony; I should be the one to man the cart.” The mare says in a poorly done masculine voice. “What a dork.”

“I don’t know, it makes the most sense from a tactical standpoint.” Blaze comments as she turns toward the mare. “The ones with the most strength are usually the ones to carry the bigger weapons.”

The mare rocks back and forth in her seat. “True, but just the way he said it was hilarious.”

“Be as it may, I thought the match prior was most entertaining.” Rarity states as she levitates a glass to her lips and takes a small drink. “Who would have thought a pony could wield something so cumbersome so well.”

“They were fencing, Rarity.” Applejack says flatly. “They were swingin’ around some floppy metal things trying to poke each other. Not my idea of entertainment.”

“It was once something the nobles did to resolve feuds within the houses.” Celestia says as she continues to watch the arena get cleared out and then frowns. “Now they just argue.”

“Ah meant no disrespect your highness. It’s just not somethin’ I found all that fun to watch.”

“It’s quite alright, Applejack.” The princess says warmly. “I took no offense by it.”

“Speaking of random nonsense, has anypony seen Spiky?” Pinkie inquires as she absentmindedly finishes a bucket of popcorn. “I mean wasn’t he suppose to be here by now?”

“No I haven’t,” Twilight replies as she looks her mentor and then the others. “Has anyone seen him?” Everyone shakes there head. “Strange, I wonder where he went.”

The mare’s musing is cut off as the Night Princess appears in the now cleared out arena with a solemn look on her face. “My little ponies, we bring you unfortunate news. we have just been informed that the combatants of the last event will not be attending. No word on what happened, but…”

Luna’s speech is cut off by a series of loud ‘boos’. “We meant well and…” She’s cut off again by another series of boos and shouts about her inferiority to her elder sister. The princess’s ears fold back as she attempts to address the crowd once more. “Please, we only meant to…”

“So you’ve failed to deliver, Princess?” A familiar voice shouts over the building intercom system. “We all came here to see some action and now you tell us the main event is canceled, because the competitors wussed out?”

A spotlight flicks on and points towards the source of the voice. Revealing it to be none other than Sonic. Said hedgehog starts walking down the lower deck towards the barrier.

“We came here to see a battle,” He snaps his fingers on his free hand; disappears and reappears inside the arena in front of Luna. “And we’re sure as hell gonna get a battle.”

The crowd erupts in an out roar, changing various forms of what the blue hedgehog just said.

The Night Princess locks eyes with Sonic and starts to back pedal. “W-we only wished to entertain our ponies and now-”

“Skip it!” Sonic shouts back; catering to the crowd. “We all came here for a show and where not leaving till we get one.”

***

“What is Sonic doing?” Twilight demands through gritted teeth.

“Yeah, he’s being a real meanie pants to the princess right now.” Pinkie adds.

“I dare say, he’s acting rather rash for such a minor infraction.” Rarity says as she watches the event unfold.

“True, but we all came here to see two high profile ponies fight and…” Rainbow Dash cuts herself off as the entire arena is basked in the light of a full moon. “Strange,” The mare says looking up at Luna’s moon. “I thought the Princess wanted tonight to be cloudy, so that everything will look all spooky and stuff.”

Celestia watches the event unfold smirks. “This shall be entertaining.”

***

Luna continues to back step back in response to Sonic’s verbal assault. “I-I just hoped that…”

“Blah, Blah, blah!” The hedgehog snaps back as he closes the distance. “All you’ve done is made excuses. Why not try fixing one the problem, instead of trying to explain it away! Furthermore,” Sonic stops mid sentence as he glances up at the full moon overhead. “What the hell?”

The Night Princess looks up at the full moon and then back at Sonic. “If thy truly wishes to see a battle, we shall provide it.” Luna says with a deep voice. “But remember, ye have asked for this.”

Sonic turns back to the night princess and then raises an eyebrow. “Ok, didn’t see this coming.”

Black mist rolls off the alicorn's frame as her features start to shift. A spear of darkness consumes the princesses; while it a cluster of several different colored calls of light swirl around inside if it. The orb explodes, inciting everyone to shield their eyes from the light only to see something very different in place of where the Princes of the Night once stood.

A figure that easily dwarfs Night Princesses stature stands in her place. With jet back fur across its entire body. A mane and tail of several star clusters flicker back and forth as a highly polished helmet and breast plate shimmer in the moonlight. The new arrivals eyes snap open, reveling a glowing set of eye like eyes; that startles more than a few members of the crowd. An armored hoof stomps down onto the broken earth as everyone takes a pregnant pause.

“Nice entrance, who are you supposed to be?”

The figure stomps its forelegs on the ground and flairs out its wings. “I AM NIGHTMARE MOON AND WE SHALL BE YOUR OPPONENT!”

Next Chapter Preview:

Nightmare: "Is thee ready to admit defeat?"

Sonic: "Not a chance Moon Butt, I'm just getting started!"

Pinkie: "Wowe, that sent her flying!"

???: *Howls*

Star Gazing

Star Gazing

The arena remains eerily quiet, despite its seats being packed with thousands of ponies and other creatures of foreign lands. Not a single one of them makes a sound. Many remain speechless and slack jawed as the bane of many nightmares and civil unrest stands but a stones throw away from them, behind a barrier that that they just saw effortlessly phased through mere moments ago.

Even the mane six and Solar Princess stare at the dark alicorn in shock. While Blaze gazes upon the new form of Luna and narrows her eyes. The only ones not stricken ridged in fear and shock are few bat ponies sitting on the upper ring of the stadium and one blue hedgehog.

Nightmare moon cackles as she takes form. “Oh my little ponies,” The dark alicorn purrs as she glances at the startled crowd. “It has been too long, since We have gazed upon your little faces.” She glances at the starlit sky before continuing. “Even with this entire splendor we give you, you still cower in your homes and hide in your beds.” Her expression sours. “And make a mockery of us on-” The alicorn gestures towards the various costumed ponies and decorations that fill the arena. “-This. Perhaps we shall show you the true terrors of the night.” The alicorn says with a sinister grin. “Then perhaps you will truly see the beauty of-“

“Oh, for crying out loud, do you ever shut up?” A snarky voice says, inciting a snarl from the possessed princess. “I mean, c’mon. ‘Fear me, puny life forms’ or ‘the day of rapture is upon us’ blah, blah, blah. I’ve heard it all before and yours isn’t even all that good.”

The night princess snaps her head towards the ‘pest’ and increases her snarl as she looks down upon them. “Watch your tongue, rodent!” The mare snaps; her voice practically dripping with venom. “You know not who you are speaking to.”

Sonic grins. “And who would that be?”

Lightning cracks in the distance as a chilling wind blows across the parched earth; a few spectators shiver in response to the sudden temperature drop. “We are the ruler of the night, the harbinger of darkness, and all things that reside under our glorious moon. WE ARE NIGHTMARE MOON!”

The alicorn’s use of the royal Canterlot voice rattles the ground beneath everyone’s feet (hooves); causing the arena’s foundation to react as a few loose pieces of plaster and timber shake loose and fall to the ground below.

“Nightmare Moon, Huh?” Sonic says with a smirk. “That’s what you call yourself now? Gotta say Luna, I’m not too impressed with the name choice.”

The mare narrows her eyes. “We are not Luna,” She then takes a breath and flairs out her wings. “AND WHAT IS WRONG WITH NIGHTMARE MOON?!”

Sonic stands firm before the Moon Princess’s dark form; seemingly unfazed by her use of the Canterlot voice.

“Nothing, it’s just not a very intimidating name.” He shrugs and begins pacing back and forth. ”I mean you could have gone with something. Oh don’t know, actually scary or creepy sounding. You got; Amaris (child of moon), Belladonna (deadly nightshade) Desdemona (unfortunate), Hecate (goddess of witchcraft), Hesparia (evening star), Jocasta (shinning moon) or if you’re feeling poetic there is Elvira (mistress of darkness) Layla (night beauty), Lisha (darkest before midnight), and Hagar (forsaken).” Sonic counts off each name as he taps each raised finger on his and then looks up at a rather shocked alicorn. “The list goes on; why you chose ‘Nightmare Moon’ is beyond me. Also…”

The hedgehog winces slightly as he waves a hand in front of his face.

“Also, you could use a breath mint. It smells like something crawled down your throat and died.” The alicorn grits her teeth at the remark and begins to advance upon the hedgehog; who continues to be uncaring of the possible threat approaching him. “I think I have a pack of them around here somewhere.” He ponders as he begins to pat himself down.” Now, I know I had a…AH HA!” Sonic turns to the dark princess; who’s now looming overhead and holds out his hand. “Mint or winter green? Actually, better yet might as well take both considering…”

The hedgehog is cut off as the dark alicorn smacks the mints out his hand with swipe of her hoof.

“Cease your foolishness, hedgehog!” Nightmare commands as she down at her opponent. “Else you’ll will to face my wrath.”

Sonic gives the alicorn a flat look, turns to the now ruined box of mints and then back at the princess. “You know that was a new pack right?” The alicorn frowns at the comment and attempt to speak, but is stopped as the blue hedgehog flicks her on the tip of the shout. “You owe me two bits, Nighty.”

The alicorn blinks at the hedgehog’s last comment and flicking of the ‘royal snout.’ Not noticing Sonic’s uncaring behavior to the ‘all powerful mood goddess’; till it incites a few snickers from the crowd. Nightmare Moon takes notices of this and grits her teeth and lets out a low growl.

“SILENCE!”

This time the mare’s outburst manages to knock the blue hedgehog back a few feet.

“PLAY TIME IS OVER, YOU FOOLISH CUR! PREPAIR TO FACE THY WRATH PRINCESS OF THE-”

“Blah, blah, blah,” Sonic interrupts as he opens and closes his hand for effect. “Oh, I’m the pinnacle of power and evolution.” The hedgehog says mockingly. “Fear me and bow before my might. HA!”

“You’re starting to piss me off.” The alicorn says flatly.

Sonic holds his hands above his head in mock terror. “Oh no, all fear the mighty Nightmare Moon.” He continues mockingly. “I’m so scared.” The hedgehog smirks. “Bring it on Moon Butt.”

“MOON BUTT?” The princess roars as she flairs out her massive wings. “WE SHALL GRIND YOU INTO A FINE PASTE AND-”

“Lame.”

“FACE THE WRATH OF ABOLUTE POWER AND…”

The hedgehog yawns loudly and crosses his arms. “We going to start now or are you just going to keep throwing lame threats at me all day? I mean if that’s what you want to do, Luna. That’s fine, but if this goes on any longer I’m going to fall asleep.”

“WE ARE NOT LUNA! SHE IS MERELY A VESSLE THAT WE USE TO EXIST AND…what are you doing?” The mare asks gesturing to the now sitting hedgehog.

“Getting conformable. You seem to be hell bent on the whole villainess monologue shtick,” He yawns. “So I’m just going to lay down right here and-” The hedgehog cuts himself off as two armored hooves close in on his position.

Sonic easily dodges the assault and returns to a standing position a few feet away. “So, you ready to get started or are you just trying to keep me awake?” The mare lets out a primal roar and charges towards him; inciting a smirk from the hedgehog.

“This is going to be fun.”

Having her ‘status’ put into question; the ebony alicorn breaks into a full gallop and quickly closes the gap between her and the still smirking hedgehog. The striking of her armored hoof coverings onto the dry earth seemed to invoke the very essence of thunder itself as each step shook the ground beneath her.

Sonic watches the approaching ‘threat’ with mild interest, as his smirk fades into a frown. Then to an annoyed groan as he crosses his arms in annoyance of the lackluster start; until a blast of blue magical energy shoots towards his position. Prompting the hedgehog to dodge it; along with the charging princess.

Smoke rises from the charred patch of now blacked ground the alicorn’s blast struck. A few members of the audience let out an audible gasp at the princess’s power. While a certain hedgehog lets out an impressed whistle as he give the ‘mark’ a sideways look.

“Nice shot almost didn’t see that one coming,” Sonic begins as he gives the now stationary Nightmare Moon one of his trademark grins. “But, there is one problem with your delivery.”

“And what would that be?” The princess asks in a flat tone.

“You missed!” Sonic states in a sing along fashion as he blows the alicorn a raspberry and twiddles his finger at each side of this head.

Nightmare Moon lets out another feral roar and launches a folly of magic blasts at the blue hedgehog; who dodges each strike with ease.

“C’mon, Moon Butt.” Sonic mocks as he avoid a blast of the princess’s magic. “What happened to all that talk about turning me into paste?” He dodges another bolt. “Or, how you were the ruler of the night.”

The hedgehog takes one last long leap and lands a few feet from the obsidian alicorn. “The ‘all powerful Nightmare Moon’. Ha! More like the ‘all mighty Moon Butt’.” Sonic turns to the crowd as a few ponies in the front hold a hoof in front of their muzzles as they attempt to stifle there laughter. “I can’t believe you guys were afraid of,” he gestures towards the alicorn. “’this.’”

A chilling breeze sweeps across the arena, as the temperature drops several degrees. Evident by the presence of vapor escaping everyone’s mouth as well as more than a few audience members shivering or scooting next to one another.

Sonic slowly turns back towards the moon princess as she now hovers several feet off of the ground. “Hedgehog, you've become an annoyance. Know this before you die in vain. Your time will come, Equestria will fall.”

The wind suddenly picks up, prompting Sonic and a few members of the crowd to shield their eyes from a storm of sand and flying debris. “Isn't this a bit much?” Sonic shouts over the howling wind. “I understand trying to make a grand entrance, but that ship has sailed. Now you’re just…”

A bolt of lightning cuts the hedgehog as he dodges the strike aimed at his last position. Then another strikes his new location; just barely missing him as he rolls out of the way.

“You've been holding out on me, Moot Butt.” Sonic jests as he dodges another bolt. “Finally decided to take off the training wheels and get serious.” The hedgehog grins. “Catch me if you can.”

Nightmare Moon lets out another roar and unleashes another folly of magic bolts, except unlike last time. They strike in random places with no real pattern to follow.

“BEGONE!”

Sonic dodges the onslaught with relative ease as he seems to be one step ahead of each strike; despite the sheer randomness of each location; even going as far performing mid-air tricks between each dodged attack.

“So, the ‘terror of the night’ is just a one trick pony.” Sonic comments as he lands before the still hovering princess. “Kind of a letdown if you ask me.”

“SILENCE!” The alicorn shouts as she launches another barrage of lightning strikes upon the hedgehog; who, like before easily dodges them.

“C’mon Moon Butt, that trick is getting old. Why not-Whoa!”

Sonic cuts himself off as the seeming random folly of magically enchanted lightning; forms into a sort of whip that seems to almost coil and bend as it attempts to strike him.

“Well that’s something.” The hedgehog mutters out as he distances himself from the ‘freaky’ magic bolt.

The alicorn grins as she watches the blast of magic close in on the hedgehog. “Just a little bit further and…WHAT?!”

Nightmare Moon cuts herself off as Sonic abruptly changes course and starts barreling towards her at top speed. A few of the patrons of the crowd comment on the sudden shift of tactics and Sonic’s ability to avoid being struck by the Nightmare Moon’s lightning; drawing said Princess’s attention away from the battle and towards the nervous spectators.

“What is the meaning of…”The dark alicorn demands, but it cut off as something smacks against her breastplate.

“Tag, you’re it!” A certain blue hedgehog states as he gives the princess’s armor a hard strike as he continues to zip around the arena.

The alicorn raises an eyebrow in response as she turns towards the fleeting hedgehog.

‘Why would thee play ‘tag’ this is a…” Nightmares’ eyes snap open as she turns back toward where Sonic just came from and shrink to the size of pin dots. “OH SH-!”

The strike of a bolt of magically charged lightning bolt drowns out the rest of the alicorn’s realization. The white hot lighting arches across the princess’s ornate armor; inciting a blood curdling scream as her body is literally attacked in all directions. A few of the spectators are forced to shield their eyes from the all-consuming light.

Despite the strike only lasting moments, the damage it caused is immense. Most prevalent by the still hovering makeshift lighting rod that somehow remains in the air, despite the damage she sustained. The once highly polished armor of ancient times is now charred black and now seems almost ‘darker’ then it’s wearer. Nightmare’s once freely flowing mane and tail now hang lifelessly across her back and flank. The princess’s head hangs lifelessly and yet still lives; evident by her shallow breathes.

Nightmare Moon’s eyes snap open as she lets out a single cough as black soot exits her mouth and then plummets to the ground below; landing on her right side with both her wings stretched out.

Seeing the once feared alicorn of nightmares; lying lifeless on the ground. Everyone remains silent; save for a few ambient coughs. The sound of crunching earth draws their attention to a certain blue hedgehog as he approaches the downed princess. Stopping a few paces from her side, Sonic kneels down and gives the alicorn a few hard shakes.

“Hey, you alright? That looked like it really hurt.” The hedgehog asks in concern as he looks on as the alicorn’s face contorts in pain.

“You have no idea.” Nightmare Moon says with a grown and opens her eyes to Sonic kneeling before her. “Still, it was a clever move. Turning our attack against us. I’d clap if I was able to.” The mare frowns. “You’re aching to make a joke aren’t you?”

Sonic smiles sheepishly. “Yeah, but I don’t think it would be appropriate now.”

“Let’s hear it.” The alicorn orders with a stern tone.

The hedgehog scratches his nose and chuckles. “Well I was going to say…” Sonic jumps to his feet. “You’ve just been…” He snaps his fingers and points towards the down alicorn. “…Thunderstruck.”

Nightmare Moon lets out another groan and looks away. “That was horrible, even for you.”

“Yeah, I guess it was.” Sonic admits with a small chuckle.

“I bet you think you’ve already won, beaten the ‘all powerful ruler of the night’? Don’t you?” The alicorns asks with a hint of venom in her voice. “…Restored ‘harmony’ to this land and all that other nonsense?”

Sonic frowns at the question and crosses his arms. “Well I was hoping I did, but now that you mention it. That was way too easy.”

The alicorn grins in response. “Smart, but…” She trails off as she fires a bolt of magic from her horn at Sonic. “…foolish. Your kindness has been your own undoing.”

“Really now?” A familiar voice says to the princesses’ right. “From what I’m told it’s one of my best qualities.” The hedgehog trails off as an obvious smile is plastered upon his face. “Well other than my rugged good looks of course.”

A few mares in the crowd seem swooned by the statement, as they dramatically faint while the blue hedgehog shoots them one of his trademark grins.

Nightmare Moon fire another bolts of magic in the hedgehog’s direction, but misses as it strikes the empty place he once stood.

“You know what I think?” A voice says right into the alicorn’s ear. Nightmare Moon’s gasps as the hedgehog’s hot breath hits her neck. “I think you’re jealous.”

The alicorn turns towards the hedgehog, but only see a vacant spot where he once stood.

“What do we have to be jealous of? Tell us!” Nightmare demands as she rises to her feet and charges her horn. “We would love to know what you think makes us jealous.” The mare asks as she searches for the elusive hedgehog.

“That I’m getting all the attention and not you.” Sonic states plainly as the alicorn meets his gaze as he stands before her.

Nightmare Moon lets out a shriek and lets out the magic bolt she was charging; missing the hedgehog and striking the barrier behind him.

“Oh, and jumpy too.” Sonic adds with a cocky smirk.

The alicorn grits her teeth and stares down at the hedgehog. “More foolish words have never been spoken. Why would our subjects favor you over-”

“You know if you’d lost the bad attitude of yours and laid off the mascara a bit, you’d be pretty hot.” Sonic states plainly as if unfazed by the alicorn before him. “As the saying goes, you catch more bees with honey. Not vinegar.” The hedgehog shrugs. “But then again, they say it’s better to be feared than loved. So take your pick. Moon Butt?

Sonic turns to the now silent alicorn and spots a noticeable blush on her face. “Uh, you still with us, Nighty?”

“You think I’m pretty?” Nightmare asks in a flat tone.

The hedgehog chuckles nervously as he scratches the back of his head. “Yeah sure, just lay off the superiority complex and you’d be quite the catch.”

With a now non hostile princess before him, Sonic cautiously steps toward the mare with his arms held out in front of him. “So, we cool now or are we gonna keep…”

A loud snaps cuts the hedgehog off as he rolls out the way of a familiar bolt of magic. Turning towards the now charred earth, Sonic throws his arms into the air and lets out a loud groan.

“What the hell, Moon Butt? I thought we were cool.”

The air in the arena begins to stir as an opposing figure stands before the hedgehog. “Playing with my emotions, while luring me into a false sense of security. So you could get the drop on me. Oh, we are far from cool, hedgehog”

“The f*** are you talking about? Why would lie?” Sonic shouts over the increasing wind. “What could I possibly gain by-OH SHIT!”

A bright red symbol appears below the hedgehog and hits him with a rush of water; sending him flying.

***

Landing on the other side if the arena, Sonic begins looking around as if trying to figure out what happened.

“That was an arcane rune.” A female voice says from within the crowd. “It’d be wise to say away from those.”

The hedgehog lets out an amused snort as he turns to the mare. “Yeah, no sh*t. I figured that out already. Any chance you’d know if there was some kind of tell.” Sonic begins rubbing her right shoulder with his left hand. “Not really liking being on the receiving end of these.”

“A symbol.” The mare replies.

“What kind of symbol?”

“Well, something like that.” The mare responds gesturing toward another rune beneath the hedgehog.

Sonic looks down and side steps just as a burst of fire erupts from where he stood.

“What the f*ck, some warning would have been nice!” Sonic snaps as he returns to standing position.

“I’m sorry, please don’t be mad.” The mare pleads. “I was just trying to help.”

Dodging another rune, Sonic gives the mare a dismissive wave. “No, I shouldn’t have snapped at you. What your name?”

“Gum Drop. My name is Gum Drop.”

“Well Gummy, come find me after the show and I’ll sign an autograph or something.” Sonic grins as he gives the mare a wink. “Think of it as an apology and thanks for helping me.”

The mare nods. “I-I will.”

“Good, now if you’ll excuse me. I have to finish my date with a certain grouchy princess.” Sonic winks at the mare. “Wish me luck.”

Gum Drop opens her mouth to reply, but is cut off by a sudden gust of wind knocking her out of her seat.

***

“Where has thou gone, hedgehog? Have ye fled like the coward that you are?” Nightmare laments as she attempts to locate her opponent.

A loud snap, followed by something striking the princess in the side; sends the alicorn skidding for several feet.

“WHO DARE?!” The princess shouts in her Canterlot voice. “WHO DARITH TO STRIKE ONE OF THE CROWN IN SUCH A FASION?”

“I dare.” A voice says from behind the alicorn. “Also, could you quit with the shouting? It’s giving me a headache.”

Another rune appears below the hedgehog and sends a plume hot air in the now vacant spot Sonic once stood.

“Stand still, damn it!”

“Why, so you can hit me with your freaking magic. No thanks.”

The ebony alicorn lets out a deep growl as the ground begins to shake.

“Oh, what’cha gonna do now? Shake me into submission?” The hedgehog quips as he shoots the princess a smirk. “Or are you gonna-Whoa!”

Sonic is cut off as several stone pillars shoot up from the ground; each one rising well beyond the arena’s open roof. Riding one up till it reaches the top of the stadium. The hedgehog lets out an impressed whistle.

“Well would look at that, you've managed mess things up more than they already were. “ Sonic begins to slowly clap. “Nice work.”

“It will stop your troublesome speed and finally put an end to this foolish match.”

“Wait, hold on. You've been trying to beat me this whole time? And here I thought you just like having me around.” The hedgehog lets out an amused chuckle. “Why didn’t you just say so.”

“What makes you think that We’d-” Nightmare Moon trails off as she looks up at the hedgehog and sees a vacant spot where he once stood. “Now where did he-”

“Geronimo~!”

Something strikes the Princess in the back, hard; sending her tumbling several feet. Nightmare rises to her hooves, but is struck again in the stomach and then the sternum; send flying backwards.

Rising to her hooves once more, Nightmare Moon lets out a chuck as she surveys the landscape.

“You think those little tricks will work on us. We’re…”

~Bong!~

Something strikes the Alicorn in her metal helmet; sending a certain hedgehog backwards as he stops his assault and begins rubbing his head.

“Ouch~! What is that thing make of?”

“It matters not what material our armor is made of.” Nightmare Moon begins with a smirk. “If this is the best you can do. Then this battle is already over.”

“Not quite,” Sonic says as he reaches behind his back and pulls out the blue Chaos Emerald. “These folks came to see a show and I intend on giving them one.”

The alicorns eyes narrow. “And prêtell what you plan to do that you haven’t tried already?”

Eight differently color emeralds begin circling the hedgehog. “Oh just a little something I’ve been saving till now. You might want to stand back.”

Nightmare complies and smirks at the hedgehog. “You think your fancy little rocks will help you now. If you truly think those things can save you now than…”

The alicorn trails off as something flashes before her mind; something glowing of a brilliant shade of glow with a set of burning red eyes; eyes that seem to pierce the mare very soul.

“NO!” The ebony mare shouts as she fires a bolt of magic at the transforming hedgehog; sending him crashing into the outer ring of the arena.

The crowd lets out a gasps as they witness the hedgehog being struck by the Princess’s magic. Some even shouting, calling Nightmare Moon a cheater. Or various other insults that begin to blend with the others.

Nightmare Moon stares at the newly kicked up cloud of dust and smirks as she approaches it. “So, Equestria’s hero is brought down by a mirror blast of magic? Hmph, how pathetic.” The mare turns towards the crowd and begins to laugh. “You held so much faith in this... this rodent, that you have been blinded by your own inability to defend yourselves.” She turns back towards the dust cloud. “What say you, ‘hero of Equestria’? Have any other ‘tricks up your sleeve’ or are you ready to bow before your Princess?”

~Silence~

The mare frowns and approaches the dust clouds edge. “I said, are you ready to summit and-GACK!”

Nightmare Moon is violently cut off as something bursts from the vale of dust, grabs her by the throat, and unceremoniously lifts her several feet into the air. The crowd lets out a gasp as the alicorn is effortlessly hoisted several times her own height.

“RELEASE ME…RELEASE ME I SAY!” The ebony mare demands as she squirms in the unknown creatures grasp. “YOUR PRINCESS DEMANDS IT!” She shouts again and fires several magic bolts into the cloud; one managing to strike home as the hold on the princess is broken and sends the alicorn crashing to the ground.

“What matter of beast have you allowed yourself to become? No matter. We shall slay it and…” A low growl escapes the cloud and sends a shiver down the alicorn’s spine. “Oh no…”

Something large and blue bursts from the cloud and strikes the Moon Princess square in the chops; Sending her crashing into the arena’s upper decks and startling a few spectators as she crashes into the barrier separating them from the battle.

***

“Uh what just happened?” A certain cyan mare asks as she watches a thick cloud of dust cover the arena below. “I mean big guy was about to go super on Nightmare Moon and then she’s sent flying halfway across the arena.”

“Whatever it was, it was a cheap shot ever for that ruffian that has taken control of the Princess.” Rarity comments, but quickly adds as she turns to the Sun Goddess. “Uh no offence intended, your highness.”

The Sun monarch nods with a kind smile. "None taken, Miss Rarity."

“Well if what I think happened then…” Twilight begins, but is cut off as certain feline begins to let out a low growl in her seat. “Blaze, what’s wrong?”

Everyone turns to lilac cat as she stands in her ornate chair curled up in an attack position; as if ready to strike the first who come near her.

“Blaze?”

“There is something very wrong, Twilight.”

“And what would that be?” Twilight inquires as she tilts her head to the side.

~HOWL~

A collective shiver runs through the entire arena.

Next Chapter Preview:

Rainbow Dash: "Whoa, what is that?"

Pinkie Pie: "Well somepony has been eating their Wheaties."

Fluttershy: "I-it's so fluffy."

Nightmare: "One this day, one shall stand. Once shall fall."

Black Dog Night.

Black Dog Night

Chapter: 7

Black Dog Night

Muffled voices and shouts greeted the Princess of the Night as she awoke from her ‘abrupt’ meeting with the balcony of spectators; mainly the platform they all stood on. Nightmare forced her eyes shut in pain as she let out a hiss; thought clenched teeth and began to run the back of her head with a hoof.

“By the creator what was…”

~Howl~

A chill runs down the alicorn’s spine as she slowly turns towards the source of the noise and attempts to peer through the ‘still’ thick cloud of dust. Nightmare Moon’s eyes shrink to the size of pin dots as a large mass can be seen within the dusty haze.

~RRRAAAAAAWWWWW~

The crowd goes deathly silent as the feral roar echoes throughout the stadium. Couples hold one another while fillies and colts cling to their parents sides. The air drastically cools; evident by the vapor rapidly escaping the still panting alicorn.

“Mommy, why is it so cold?” a young colt asks, but his question goes unanswered as the ground shakes as if something large has fallen nearby. A few ponies in the lower decks let out a various shrieks and yells as there jostled from their seats. Several of them colliding with one another and falling into a heap of quivering flesh.

Compatriots in the upper decks look over their seats as the still fallen princess and a now dispelling cloud.

“My word, what in the name of Celestia was that?” A snooty mustached unicorn noble inquires as he glances towards the arena below. “It’s as if…” The stallion is cut off as the ground is shaken once more; knocking his comically oversized monocle into his crystal gantlet.

“That’s the third monocle his week. I must stop being so bloody terrified.” The noble laments as he uses his magic to fish out the now ruined eyewear from his glass.

~***~

The ground shakes once more; much sooner than the last. Several crowd members begin shifting in their seats as their fears begin to rise. One patron goes to take a swing from his gold gauntlet, but stops as he notices the liquid inside ripple.

“WHAT THE BUCK IS THAT!” A mare shouts as a figure bursts from the cloud and starts charging toward the princess.

~HRRRG-RRRRRGH!~[/1]

~***~

The very creature that sent the great alicorn flying, is in her sights and barreling towards her at speed a being of that mass shouldn’t possess. Normally, even something of this size won’t be a match for the night princess. She’d vanquish it or at the very least subdue it, without much effort. That is, if the alicorn wasn’t ready to ruin her armor in fright while a cold sliver of fear rolls down her back.

Nightmare Moon, Tyrant of the Night was scared. More scared that she has ever been in her long life. (Yes, it was she that occupied the moon during the banishment, not Luna.) While her time on the dissolvent rock gave her centuries to brood as her anger festered into something that would make the late king of the crystal realm envious.

None of that seem to matter as the source of the princess’s fears was closing the distance between her and ‘it’ was going at a pace that by all rights; shouldn’t be possible. The alicorn’s body shook as her legs refused to obey and lift her from the sandy ground.

So absorbed in her fear, the princess of the night didn’t even notice the massive claw raising above the creature’s head till it caught a ray of the moon light, as the beast let out another feral roar.

Snapping from her stupor, the princess managed to coax her treacherous legs to cooperate long enough to move out the way of the oncoming attack.

~Boom~

The arena’s outer wall took the hit meant for the alicorn. A cloud of white marble and rock almost rolled from the area as the creature removed its clawed paw from the area it made contact with.

Seeing the destruction of the retaining wall, Nightmare Moon desperately scrambled to her hooves and began to power up her horn; in fear of the creature’s next strike.

“W-who are?...W-what are you? What have you done with the hedgehog?” The alicorn demands as she continued to channel magic into her horn.

Letting out a deep chuckle the creature turned to the princess and give her a toothy grin; insisting another shiver of fear from the princess; as well as a few ponies and even a griffin shuttered in his seat, as he watched from the front row. Not getting an answer, the alicorn lowered her head and began to pour more magic into her already severely charged horn. “I asked you a question! What beast are you and what have you done with Sonic!”

Dropping the smirk, the creature lets out a low growl and begins approaching the princess.

“S-stay back!” Nightmare orders with a shaky voice. “W-we won’t hesitate to bring ye down!”

The princess’s words seem to not matter to the beast, as it continues to approach the ebony alicorn; though now at a much greater speed.

“I SAID STAY BACK!” Nightmare Moon roars in her royal Canterlot voice. “WE’LL STRIKE YOU DOWN WHERE YE STAND!”

Again, promises from the princess don’t seem to phase the approaching threat as it continues to close the gap between itself and Nightmare Moon; now only a few steps away from the alicorn.

Looming over the alicorn, the mysterious creatures stands several heads taller than princess. Its long dark fur sways in the gentle breeze, piercing green eyes stare back at her as it mouth opens and reveals a full set of pointed teeth. What little resolve the princess may have possessed it lost at that moment.

What replaces it is only one thought; ‘fear’. Fear of what this monster will do to her if it gets its large ‘clawed’ hands on her. If it will simply tear her in half or smack her around a bit before finally finishing her off?

“YOU HAVE CHOSEN YOUR FATE!” The alicorn shouts as she unleashes the mass of power that had charging in her horn, at the creature; striking it square in its chest. Said creature lets out a low grunt as its hit with the blast, but remains unharmed.

Nightmares Moon’s widen as the monster before her is unfazed by the odiously powerful blast. “GET…GET AWAY FROM ME!” The princess shouts as she unleashes another blast of magic from her horn. This one seems more powerful then the last, since it sends the creature back a few feet, but still unharmed.

“What are you?”

~GRRRAAAAAAAHH!~

“Oh shit!”

Taking not one, but two direct magic blasts from the night princess; the creature lets out deep roar and begins charging at the alicorn. Said alicorn turns tail and starts to flee; forcing the monster to give chase.

“S-stay away from me!” Nightmare demands as she to mauve around the pillars that were raised earlier in the battle. “I will not be…”

The rest of the princess’s sentence is drowned out by the sound of stone being crushed by tremendous force. Nightmare Moon glances backwards, only to narrowly avoid being struck by a massive clawed hand. Distancing herself from the beast, the alicorn takes flight and stops atop one of the taller towers of stone that still stands and looks down as another cloud of smoke rolls over the arena.

“I see now, that you are nothing, but I mindless breast!” Nightmare begins as she stares down at a now stationary creature. “Whatever you ‘were’ is not lost and all that remains is…”

“Oh, for the love of the creator, WILL YOU SHUT THE HELL UP?” A deep voice shouts from the arena below. The alicorns mouth snaps shut as the voice continues. “Do you love the sound of your voice that much? Because that’s all I’ve been hearing since this started. Blah, Blah, blah, you just don’t quit do you?”

Nightmare Moons moves as if trying to form a response, but no words come out.

“And another thing…”

“How long,” The alicorn says, finally finding her voice. “How long have you been in control of that form?”

The transformed hedgehog lets out a deep laugh. “Oh, I’ve been here the whole time. I was just waiting to see how long to took you to figure out.” He says mater of factly before continuing. “Would have carried it out longer, but your voice is like nails on a damn chalkboard.”

A few nearby spectators attempt to stiffen a chuckle (failing poorly), while others burst out laughing at the alicorn’s expense. This in turn, insights a scowl from the princess as she charges up her horn.

“So, this is all a game to you?” Nightmare Moon’s voice echoes as the wind picks up and storm clouds start to build overhead. “That I’m some fool that you get to toy with for your own amusement?” The wind picks up as lightning start crack within the building dark clouds. “Think again, for you have now made the worst mistake. Evoking the wrath of a…”

Something strikes the alicorn hard, knocking her from her ‘perch’ and onto the ground below. The thick veil of storm clouds starts to dissipate as its summoner lies motionless on the ground.

“WHAT DID I JUST SAY?” Sonic shouts as his right arm returns this is side. “Chalkboard, nails, your voice. How hard it that to get through your thick skull?”

Nightmare Moon’s eyes snap open as a snarl appears on her face. The alicorn rises to her hooves and lets out an angry snort.

“So you ready to get this show on the road?” The former hedgehog jests. “Or are you gonna give another one of your ‘rousing’ speeches?”

~RRRRAAAAWWWW!~

The mare lets out feral roar of utter rage and takes off in a full gallop. Seeing the night princes finally taking action and not shooting off her mouth; the former hedgehog smiles in response.

“About time you kicked things in gear I was..” Sonic trails off. “Uh oh.”

Black mist coils from the alicorn’s horn and begins to cover her body like a raging flame, till nothing aside from her enchanted mane remains in normal color; even her once shimmering battle armor is consumed by the mysterious substance. The princess lowers herself downwards as her speed increases ten-fold as and kicks up a cloud of dust in her wake.

The smirk vanishes from Sonic’s face as he begins searching for a way to counter the charging alicorn.

“Now wait a minute now-OMPH!” Nightmare collides into the former hedgehog with tremendous force and is able to knock him back; only narrowly avoiding impalement from her horn by a few centimeters.

Sonic attempted to find a footing as he drives his spiked shoes into to dirt, but all that accomplishes is two deep trenches being dug in the ground as the alicorn continues to push him back. Nightmare Moon lets out a pained grunt as she raises her head; effetely lifting the former hedgehog off the ground and unfolds her wing wings.

“This is only the beginning!” The ebony alicorn shouts as she starts flapping her wings. “We’ll finally be done with you after this!”

“Done, what are you…” Sonic begins, but trails off as he begins to lift off the ground. “What the hell?”

The same blast mist that seemed to consume the alicorn, starts to travel up the former hedgehog’s left forearm; ambit at a slower pace. Sonic attempts to push himself away from the crazed mare, but the combined force from the speed and the angle he’s currently at; provides futile in his effort to do so.

“Uh were running out of road, Moon Butt.” Sonic states as he glances backwards. “If all this was just so you can throw me into a wall. I’m going to be pretty disappointed.” Nightmare says nothing as she continues to flap her massive wings and lift further off the ground. Higher and high they score, till they reach the upper decks.

“Alright, that’s it!” the former hedgehog shouts as he cups his hands together and brings them down in a double ax handle. That is he could, if both forearms weren’t covering in strange black mist; rendering both appendenges useless. “You gotta be kidding-LOOK OUT!”

The barrier around the arena shattered like glass as the two crash trough the top of it. Most on lookers shield their eyes as a bright light consumes the sky for a moment; as the collective power of several dozen unicorns is discharged above them.

Celesta watches the display with a slacked expression; only breaking her gaze as two disappears in the distance.

“Lieutenant,” A pegasus in the lower desk snaps his head towards the sun monarch. “After them!”

The stallion nods, unfolded his wings, and take flight.

~***~

Sounds of strong wings cuts through the otherwise silent accent from the arena’s platform. As Sonic watches silently as the ground below them begins meshing together in the distance, before interjecting.

“Not one of your brightest idea’s, Moon Butt.” The former hedgehog states as he tries to free his arms from the black mist.

“Shut up!” The alicorn demands as she lets out a grown and arches further upwards. “It will be all over soon.”

“If you’re planning on just dropping me from this height, you’re wasting your time.” Sonic begins as he starts to gain feeling back in his right arm. “I’ve fallen from greater feats then this and walk away unharmed so…”

Nightmare lets out an amused laugh as she tilts her head to look at the beat in her magic grasp. “I’m not going to drop you.” She purrs with an almost seductive tone. “I’m going to slam you!”

“Kinky…Wait how are you gonna...” Sonic trails off and glances as a male pegasus flying towards them. With a boom-mic rigged to his back. “Are you recording us?” The stallion shyly nods. “Well that’s not creepy at all.”

“Ignore him!” The princess commands. “You shall be nothing, but a memory when we are through with you.”

Sonic turns back to the ebony alicorn and smirks. “And how do you plan on doing that?”

The alicorns wings suddenly snap to her sides; sending the duo into an abrupt free fall. Then, using the new source of momentum, Nightmare wraps her forelegs around former hedgehog’s neck, while her rear ones interlock around his waist. Making her intent of introducing Sonic face first into the ground very clear.

“I don’t think so.” Sonic states flatly as he fights for control of his arm.

Either through a gross oversight or cocky-ness, upon placing the former hedgehog in the suplex maneuver. The magic binds that were keeping his hands firmly ‘glued’ to the princess’s side begin to weaken and prove unable to hold for what comes next.

Letting out a feral roar, Sonic frees his right arms from the Nightmare’s magic grasp and smashes a closed fist into her face. Despite the ornate helmet protecting the alicorn’s head from the brunt of the attack, the strike still manages to rattle her teeth within her skull. Another one slams into the side of her head again; this one stronger than the last; knocking the princess out of it for a few moments. And most likely leaving a fist sized dent from impact.

Nightmare Moon turns her head her head slightly while in a daze and is struck again. This time with enough force to knock her helmet clean off and send crashing the ground below. The mare lets out a pained grunt as her head is forcibly snapped back and spits up a small bit of blood; most of which lands onto the former hedgehog’s coat.

With the crazed alicorn temporary disoriented, Sonic is able to free his left arm from the princess’s magic hold and grasps Nightmare’s head in his massive hands. Followed with an abrupt and powerful head butt, striking the crown of the mare’s skull; Inciting a surprised yelp and an instant release from the alcorn’s hold.

Using his new found maneuverability, Sonic kicks way from the still dazed princess and glances towards the fast approaching ground below.

“I don’t suppose you’d be able to give me a lift?” Sonic inquires as he glances towards the stallion flying alongside them. The pegasus shakes his head and the former hedgehog lets out a heavy sigh. “Yeah, didn’t think so. I figured it was worth a shot.”

Snapping out her daze, the night princess gazes towards the fast approaching earth and lets out a wicked laugh as she unfurls her wings. “Ye have doomed yourself, for you have chosen to-*gasp*”

A clawed hand latches onto to one of the alicorns rear legs and flings her downwards.

“Have a nice trip; I’ll see you next fall!” Sonic shouts as the alicorn disappears from sight. The pegasus stares blankly in the direction the princess just flew and then shakes his head in annoyance. “What?”

~***~

Sitting before a now empty arena, the crowd begins to stir as they start milling about their seats. While other remain seated and comment on the last message they heard from the loud speaker a moment ago.

“I wonder what that was all about.” A mare comments as she glances at the sky.

“It’s hard to say.” A male unicorn comment as he adjusts an obvious fake mustache. “The transmission was abruptly cut and…” A loud shriek cuts the elder stallion off, as princess of the night crashes through the arena’s open roof and slams into the ground below.

Several on lookers shield their eyes as a huge dust cloud is kicked up from the impact and rolls across the lower decks. A few audience members begin coughing while attempting to wave the nuance away from their faces. Nightmare Moon, lies on her back; stunned from her abrupt landing onto the arenas’ hard ground. The princess blinks several times and gives her head a few good shake as she attempts to shake out the metaphorical cobwebs that have formed.

Letting out a sigh, the alicorn tilts he head to the side and takes a few deep breaths.

“BANZAI,” A voice shouts from above, shaking the princess out of her stupor. Scrambling to her stomach, Nightmare barely manages to crawl away just before being turned into a royal pancake.

~KA-BLAM!~

Another cloud of dust rolls across the arena grounds, covering everyone in the lower decks with even more dried dirt and sand. However unlike before, no one reacts to the sudden arrival of the former hedgehog. Instead, they stare blankly at the beaten and battered form of the Princess of Nightmares; as she struggles to rise to her hooves.

The tension and silence being so thick, one could metaphorically cut it with a knife, till a low growl is heard through the still think dust cloud; prompting everyone to turn towards the source. Including Nightmare Moon; who seem visibly shake as her pupils shrink to the side of pin dots.

“SON OF A BITCH!” A loud voice exclaims from within the veil of dust; inciting everyone to flinch within shouting distance. “THAT FUCKING HURT!”

As the dust begins to clear, the form of a very enraged Sonic can be seen clenching his left shoulder with a pained expression on his face. A few members of the crowd comment on this former hedgehog’s profanity. While others, inquire amongst themselves regarding why he’s holding his arm. The night princess lets out a breath she wasn’t aware she was holding and smiles. As she sees the once formidable threat brought down a notch.

Sonic turns to the now relieved princess gives her a sour look as he holds the now slacked in his other hand. “What are you grinning at? Up until a few moments ago, you were ready to wet yourself.”

“Say what you will, but this battle is already one.” The princess says proudly. “What possible threat could you possibly possess with your arm now like that?”

The former hedgehog lets out a deep laugh, causing the night princess and a few nearby to cringe. “You honestly think this is going to stop me?” Sonic inquires as he motions to his dangling left arm. “Ha, this won’t even slow me down.”

Nightmare Moon opens her mouth to refute that claim, but is cut off by a loud furious roar and loud popping sound echoing across the silent arena. The Princess swallows a lump her throat as the former hedgehog starts moving his left arm.

“Ah, that’s much better.” Sonic claims as he hisses through clenched teeth as he glances at his left arm while opening and closeing his hand. He then looks up at a rather shocked alicorn. “Now, you were saying?”

The princess of the night stares slacked jawed at what just occurred before her. A creature that less than a few moments ago, had a desolated shoulder. Relocated said shoulder in less than a minute and is now barreling towards her.

“Wait what?” Nightmare Moon is shaken from her stupor as the ground beneath her hooves starts to quake. Barely avoiding another swipe of the beast claws, the princess fires a bolt of magic in the direction of the threat. Sonic side steps the blast and goes into for another strike.

“BEGONE, DEMON!” The ebony alicorn shouts as she fires a folly of magic blasts in the former hedgehog’s direction. All of them miss as the unnaturally large Sonic manages to avoid them. However, one does strike home and hits him in injured shoulder. Nightmare smirks at a possibly critical hit; only to stare in shock as the blast fizzles out like a weak fire cracker.

“Keep trying, I almost felt that one.” Sonic jests as he makes his way towards the still flabbergasted alicorn.

Nightmare lets out a frustrated growl in response, lightimg her horn in magic, she stomps her right hoof onto the ground; creating several dozen ruin symbols between her and the approaching Sonic.

“We’d like to see you try and get past ‘that!’” The princess boasts as a wall of flames burst from the ground. “None have, been able to…uh oh.” The princess is cut off mid monologue at the very enraged Sonic bursts through the flames and looms over her as he’s about to strike her down with a closed fist.

Any other time, something like this would greatly impress the ebony alicorn. Since, despite the potential threat the enchanted flames possess, this creature…this beast leapt through them with little to no regard to himself. Plus, it’s obvious that he’s not immured to them, evident by the small embers and singeing fur from his coat.

However, this wasn’t a time to be impressed by her enemy’s pain threshold. It was a time to be scared, or more precise…terrified. So the night princess did the first thing anyone in her possession would do. She screamed, screamed and let out a magic blast, so powerful that it hit the former hedgehog in the chest and launched him backwards.

~***~

Along the upper deck, several spectators watch in ‘ah’ as a being of many sleepless nights and terror is match blow for blow by a creature not see in even the farthest of lands. Others shift uncomfortably in their seats as they watch the battle unfold. While many just watch with an expression that only be described as ‘pure glee,’ as they watch two legends duke it out for there amusement.

The sun monarch possessed none of these traits. Instead she stares down at the battle before her with scowl as she chews on the inside of her cheek. Twilight turn toward the princess for context, but the words die in her throat as she notices her expression and gives Celestia a worried look.

“What’s the matter, Princess?”

“That was a ten circle spell my sister just cast. Only one other pony can break something like that and Sonic isn’t one of them.” The princess states as her scowl deepens. “Something is not right.”

“What are you getting at?” Twilight inquires as she tilts her head.

“She’s holding back.” Blaze interrupts, while still watching the match below. “They both are.”

“But why,” A certain apple bucking mare asks. “Ah may not know a lot about magic and what not, but why would some pony pull their punches if they didn’t have ta?”

“I don’t think it’s by choice, at least not entirely.” Blaze begins as she motions towards the battle before them. “Have anyone else noticed that Luna’s….Nightmare Moon’s magic has been getting progressively weaker throughout the match?”

Twilight lets out a grown and face hooves. “I thought it was just my imagination, but yeah I noticed it too. Nightmare’s magic has had a lot less ‘punch’ since Sonic took on that form.” The mare frowns as if the statement leaves a bitter taste in her mouth.

“Be it as it may,” Celestia begins with a stern tone. “It still doesn’t explain how Sonic was able to break an unbreakable spell. Furthermore, why is that ‘monster’ that is controlling my sister only using four and five circle spells. When she’s capable of using nine and ten without much trouble?”

“Ya, think maybe sugar hog is somehow absorbing yer sister’s magic?” Applejack inquires in a flat tone.

Everyone turns to the farm pony in shock; prompting the mare to glance at all the onlookers in response. “What?”

“Applejack dear,” Rarity begins with her usual tone. “A pony can’t just take another’s magic.” The mare turns towards the sun monarch and lavender unicorn.”...can they?”

“Not usually,” Twilight states as she taps her chin. “With the exception of a few rare occasions, No pony has been able take another’s magic. Less it was given to them.”

“Unless the pony is some big meanie that only thinks of themselves.” Pinkie Pie states in a very unusual sober tone. “They’d have to be some sort of magic absorbing monster or something.” The party pony suddenly grins brightly. “But we won’t see something like that for a while.”

Rainbow Dash raises an eyebrow at the pink pony’s statement and then shakes her head. “Pinkie Pie, you are so random.”

“Yep-er-oony.”

“That aside, many things still remain unanswered. Like how my dear sister had been corrupt by the darkness once more or how Sonic has taken on that form.” Celestia turns towards her faithful student and lilac feline. “You two seem to be the closest to Sonic. Would any of you happen to know?”

“Hey, what about me?” Rainbow Dash shouted in protests.

“What about ya?” Applejack inquires with a smirk. “Yer jealous or something, Dash?”

“No,” The cyan mare states firmly as she turns away. “Why would I be jealous? Sonic can like whoever he wants.” She turns back to the apple bucking mare and smirks. “Besides, I’m awesome. So I have nothing to worry about.”

“Then why are you blushing?” Fluttershy speak up. Breaking her long silence and drawing everyone’s attention towards her; which causes the mare to hide behind her mane. “I mean, we all know that you like him.” The pegasus says quietly. “We all do. Why is everypony getting all work up about it?”

Rarity adjusts her brimmed hat and nods in agreement. “I’d have to agree with Fluttershy on that one. We all see Sonic as a valued friend.” The mare turns to others and smirks. “Some, more than others.”

Twilight fidgets in her seat, and she tried to hide her blush, and clears her throat. “Back to the topic at hoof, I really have no idea why Sonic grew 20 times his original size and is now covered in blue fur.” The mare turns to the Sol guardian. “What about you, Blaze? You have any idea what happened?”

The lilac cat nervously adjusts her collar and lets out a small sigh. “I’m afraid not, Sonic never spoke of anything regarding any sort of wolf transformation.” Blaze states with a sour look. “However, he seems quite accustom to the form. So he must have used it before.”

“I guess we’ll just have to ask him,” Celestia comments as her frown lessees. “Assuming of course, he wins this match. The barrier should hold, but for how long?”

~***~

Bolts of multicolored magic rain down upon the arena, as the princess launches wave after wave of enchantments and spells. Some simply fizzled out when they hit the ground; others hiss and burn as they make contact, while a select few actually explode into balls of fire or poisonous gas.

Making any all attempts to avoid Nightmare Moon’s ‘righteous furry’, Sonic takes cover behind one of the few still standing pillars that dot the arena’s floor; which only inferiorities the ebony mare further and invokes her wrath.

“Have you really lost your nerve to fight?” The princess asks between bringing down another rain of chaotic magic. “Or it that you finally realized that we are the superior one and that you should kneel before us.”

“Not quite,” Sonic states as he emerges from cover. “Just testing out a theory, I had.”

“And what it this ‘theory’ you speak of?” The alicorn says in a mocking tone. “Perhaps it’s to fight against the flees you’ll most likely gain or to suppress the urge to chase the mall mare, or maybe even…”

“Dog jokes, really? That’s the best you can come up with?” Sonic asks in a flat tone. “That’s lame, even by your cruddy standards.”

Nightmare Moon snarls and charges her horn for another blast. “Well then, how about this one. SIT BOY!” The ebony alicorn launches a powerful attack from her horn….or at least would have if a rock hadn’t struck the mare in her unprotected snout. Causing Nightmare to lose concentration and having the spell backfire in her face.

“HA, HA, I can’t believe that actually worked.” Sonic muses as he takes off in a full sprint and attempts to close the gap between himself and the night princess.

~***~

Having all five of your senses disrupted at once isn’t a pleasant experience. A certain ebony alicorn can attest to that. While a seven circle spell going on in one’s face is pretty much a death sentence to even the most gifted unicorn. To those extraordinary few, it’s at most a minor nuisance. When one has lived at long as the princess of the night has. It’s not uncommon to have a few hiccups in ones magic from time to time; especially, when one wishes to be on par with their older sister.

This wasn’t the first time a spell has backfired in the mare’s face, but it was certainly one of the most problematic. Since, it left her open to attack and judging by the fast footsteps; was any minute now; which had the mare at a disadvantage. Since the alicorn couldn’t counter what she couldn’t see, dodge what she couldn’t feel, or prepare for what she could barely hear.

Nightmare Moon could only hope that whatever the creature had in mind wasn’t something truly heinous. That it would spew out another assault of lame jokes or ‘witty banter.’ Which would hopefully give the princess enough time to recover and come up with a counter attack or at least way to keep the beast at bay; for at least a little longer.

The footsteps abruptly stop, breaking the ebony mare from her train of thought. ‘What is he going to do?’ She muttered to herself.

A shuffling of rocks from behind the alicorn kicks her worries into over drive; which leads her instinctively bucking in the direction of the noise. (Which at the time seemed the most logical, since her other senses were at most ‘barley functional.’) However, what seemed like a good idea at the time; can lead to some compromising situation.

Having, kicking her rear legs out in desperation and only striking air in the process. The night princess ponders what action to take next, but it cut off as something grabs onto her outstretched hooves and lifts her several feet into the air.

“What are you…” Nightmare trails off as she’s lifted higher into the air. “Wait stop…No, No, no.”

The mare furiously paws at the ground in desperation as she lifted into the air; only to lose her footing and face plant into the hard earth.

Nightmare Moon is unceremoniously lifted into the air, by her rear legs. Despite her attempts to free herself from the creatures grip. It’s for naught, as any and all attempt only incite an amused chuckle from the beast. However, what comes next, it something the mare would never expect in a million years.

The air rushes past the mare as she’s brutally spun around in place by the former hedgehog. Images begin to blur as the speed increases. While the contents of her stomach begin to stir; which only adds to the alicorn’s already great predicament. Nightmare holds a hoof in front of her face as she attempts hold back the bile that’s slowly raising her throat. Faster and fasters she’s spun, the mare’s head is snapped back by the sheer force of the event. While her forelegs dangle helplessly in desperation.

“R-release me,” The alicorn pleads. “I’m gonna…I’m gonna hurl.”

“Round, and round and round she goes~!” Sonic says in a sing-along fashion; completely oblivious to the princess’s demand. “Where she stops nobody-OOPS.”

A loud pop is heard as the princess is abruptly released and sent flying. Said princess lets out a sheik as she flung towards the higher decks.

“So long Queen Moon Butt.” The former hedgehog adds as he smirks at his handy work.

Nightmare Moon opens her wings at the last second; narrowly avoiding impact and begins hovering above Sonic. “YOU HAVE INVOLKED THE WRATH OF A GODDESS,” The alicorn shouts in her royal canterlot voice. “PREPAIR TO BE ANIOLATED.” She then turns to her now uncovered rear legs. “
ALSO, RETURN MY ROYAL HOOF COVERINGS!”

“You mean these?” The former hedgehog inquires as he tosses one of the objects in question into the air several times and then gives the mare a cheeky smirk. “I don’t know why you these back, but…”

“JUST GIVE THEM TO ME! The alicorn snaps. “ WE DO NOT EXPECT YOU TO UNDERSTAD THE SIGNIFIGANCE OF WHAT YOU CURRENTLY POSSESS.”

Sonic shrugs and looks down at the hoof covering in his hand. “Well, if you insist.” He then flings the object right at the mare; barely missing her head.

“Watch it!” Nightmare shouts as she catches the object with her magic. “These are not to be…” The princess it cut off as something bounces off her muzzled and sends her teetering backwards.

“Ah ha,” The former hedgehog shouts in triumph. “Bulls eye.”

The princess snarls and starts channeling magic into her horn. “THAT IT IS, THIS PLACE WILL BE YOUR GRAVE!”

“Really now,” Sonic jests as she crosses his arms behinds his head and gives the mare a cocky smirk. “And what would that-OH SHIT!”

Piles upon piles rocks rain down from above. Some engulfed in flames, while others seem to be from the destroyed pillars that once filled the arena. The former hedgehog manages to knock a few of them way, but is soon overwhelmed by the sheer number and size of the rocks and is soon buried beneath a large pile of rubble.

The crowed remains silent as the ebony mare mains her altitude and continues to hover above the tower of mortar and rocks she created. Nightmare Moon lets out a relieved sigh and whips a bead of sweat from her brow.

“You certainly were a challenge, Sonic.” The alicorn begins as she lands and examines the pile. “But in the end, you didn’t have what it takes to wield true power.”

The night princess turns towards the crowd and unfurls her wings. “Behold my little ponies. Your true ruler and champion, Nightmare…” A series of falling rocks cuts the alicorn off as she turns to the now shifting pile of stone. “N-no that’s I-Impossible.”

~***~

Twilight’s pupils narrow to the size of pin dots as a cold shiver runs down her spine. “Increaser the barriers strength,” The mare commands as the others raises an eyebrow in response. “Do it, Do it now!”

The sun monarch opens her mouth to protest the order, but trails off as she notices the pile of rocks start to shift. “Do it.”

Celestia, Twilight and Rarity fire rays of magic into the protective barrier that surrounds the arena and protects the spectators. Several of the audience members cock her head in response to the action, while others add their own magic to the barrier.

“BY ORDER OF YOUR PRINCESS,” Celestia shouts as she continues to send her magic to the edge of the last and only line of defense; between and her little ponies from whatever lies beneath that ruble. “REENFORCE THE BARRIER!” The alicorn then frowns and mutters. “Sister, what have you done?”

~***~

Nightmare cautiously backpedals away from the large mound as he continues to shift. Small rocks tumble from the pile, while the larger ones shift and either only move slightly or fall back into place. A cold chill runs down the alicorn’s spine as she grits her teeth and starts to charge her horn.

The heap of stones and mortar sways and shift a few more times and then abruptly stops. Thinking that the beast has finally succumbed to tons of debris that have fallen upon it, the ebony mare lets out a relieved sigh and begins to chuckle.

“Foolish creature, few have been able to withstand the wrath of nightmares. Fewer still, have been able to fight against it…even for a brief amount of time. Your actions should be commended, where you not thy enemy then perhaps…”

A low growl cuts the princess off as the chilling grip of fear returns as the temperature drops several degrees. As clouds of white vapor start to drift from alicorn’s mouth. As the moon shifts from it’s all encompassing cold, but soft glow to that of dread and fear as it shifts to an angry red.

“A b-blood m-moon,” Nightmare Moon mutters under her breath as she starts to visibly shake. “One of those hasn’t been seen since…” The mare sharply inhales through her snout as her pupils shrink. “Oh no.”

The mass of stone and marble masonry starts to shift more violently than before. Large boulders that once made up the retaining ring and of the magic pillars, start to tumble downwards; collecting at the base of the pile. The growling intensifies and a massive hand bursts from the mound and clenches its fits as if summoning great strength through the action.

Nightmare Moon’s gaze remains locked onto the shifting mound as she waits for what’s to emerge from it with baited breath. Several audience members begin shifting around in their seats as many start to grow uneasy of what’s about to come from beneath the pile of stone and sand.

Suddenly, the shifting abruptly stops; prompting everyone to lean forward in anticipation. A few patrons in the lower decks begin to shake, while a few mutter out annoyance at the current state of the battle.

As if on cue, the pile explodes scattering the debris that it consisted of in every direction; much if it ricocheting off the now reinforced barrier. While a bone chilling sound erupts form it.

~ ARH-WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! ~

A bout of fear starts to form in the pit of the alicorn’s stomach. While many fear the unknown and different to them, the princess of the night on the other hand knew exactly what she’s about to face. And it wasn’t something the mare thought she’d ever face again; pure unadulterated rage.

Nightmare Moon holds a hoof to her face, in an attempt to block some of the blast of stone and sand. Gritting her teeth, the alicorn forms a small barrier around herself and divers most of the blast. With her vision now cleared, the alicorn pears into the cloud and notices a massive figure….that’s coming right for her.

“Ah shit!” The princess exclaims as she takes flight to avoid the oncoming attack. Or at least ‘tries’ to as something large and ‘clawed’ slices through her barrier like it was nothing and cuts through her breast plate with ease.

The alicorn crumbles to the arena floor as what’s left of her royal armor falls haphazardly to the ground. Peering downwards, the princess notices four shallow slash marks on her chest; which are roughly in the same spot her beloved enchanted armor once sat. A cold shiver runs down the mare’s back as the realization dons upon her of what might have happened if her amour wasn’t there to block some of the attack.

Using her magic to close the wound, the alicorn turns her head; just in time for to receive a hard right hook to the face. The strike connects with tremendous force and sends the princess crashing into the upper part of the barrier.

Somehow ‘glued’ to part of barrier she just struck. The alicorn glances downward to what just send her flying into the upper decks; which only increases the already building fear within her.

Towering over the wreckage of the battle arena stands the former hedgehog in all his glory. Except, unlike before a blue aura surrounds Sonic like a raging fire. While the occasional crackle of lightning rolling across his form. Nightmare Moon swallows the lump in her throat as her eyes and the creatures lock; inciting a shiver as it smile back at her.

“Oh no,”

A clawed hand bursts forth and grabs the princess by her now exposed barrel. The mare lets out a sheik as she’s flung to the ground and sent tumbling for several meters. Nightmare Moon scrabbles to her hooves and takes a ready stance as she starts charging her horn.

“So, thou wish to fight without limitations?” Her eyes start to whiten out as the magic in her horn starts arching out. “So be it.”

The princess launches a powerful blast from her horn that literally leaves a wake of dust behind it. As her magic is about to strike, the alicorn grins in triumph; only to stare in utter shock as it the blast hits it mark and fizzles out without leaving a scratch.

“N-no, that’s impossible.” Nightmare exclaims as she power up her horn for another attack. “That should have at least…”

Something large, clamps onto the mare’s face; effetely disrupting the spell and having it backfire in her face. Normally, the princess would react to this something so absurd. However, any motivation to call out such an act is forgotten as the mare notices five long claws start to dig into her neck and the back of her head.

As the pressure of the creatures grip starts to increase onto the alicorn’s skull, a deep laugh can be heard ; which prompts a cold shiver to rattle the mare frame.

“You talk too much.” The voice says as the grip tightens and the princess is flung unceremoniously across the arena; crashing into one of the still standing pillars near the far edge.

Watching the alicorn ragdoll as she hits the last of the stone supports, the former hedgehog lets out a feral growl and takes off in a full sprit towards the fallen mare.

~***~

Slowly rising to her hooves, Nightmare Moon grits he teeth as she notices the fast approaching creature.

“ENOUGH!” The mare shouts, using her royal Canterlot voice and takes flight; which brings Sonic to a standstill. “You are, all of you are beneath me! I am a goddess, you dull creature, and I will not be bullied by...”

Nightmare Moon is cut short as a clawed hand clamps onto one of her rear legs and slams her onto the arena’s ground, and then again, and then once more before the princess is lifting to meet the former hedgehog’s gaze and then slammed two more times for good measure.

“Puny goddess,” Sonic mutters as he turns his back to the alicorn and walks away.

The crowd explodes in an uproar of chants and a cheer as the princess of nightmares is defeated, lying motionless in a small creature. Others sing varied forms of ‘ding don the witch it dead.’ While some watch intently as the mare’s enchanted mane and tail still waves slightly; as if blowing in a nonexistent breeze.

Suddenly, the alicorn’s eyes snap open as she springs to her feet, as bolts of dark magic and black mist rise from her body. The mare lets out an angered roar and takes off in a full gallop; with her sights set on the former hedgehog. The barrier starts to rapidly crack and break apart as the princess’s hooves dig into the sun parched ground as a cloud of dust is left in her wake. Noticing the fast approaching alicorn, Sonic smirks and turns towards Nightmare as he takes a ready stance.

Nightmare Moon constructs a massive charge of magic as she closes the gap, between herself and Sonic.

Time seems to slow down as the princess draws near. Many spectators lean forward in anticipation, while other shield their eyes from what’s about to come. The former hedgehog smirks as he crouches downwards and brings his right arm back. Nightmare takes notices of this and attempts to stop, but it’s too late.

Swinging his right arm in a smooth arching motion, Sonic connects with lower portion of the alicorn’s snout and delivers a devastating uppercut. Which creates a shockwave from the clashing forces so massive, that it shatters that already weakened barrier and kicks up a huge cloud of dust; covering everything and everyone in thin layer of sand and dust.

~***~

An eerie silence hangs in the air as everyone attempts to process what they just saw. Even Princess Celestia, the mane 6, and Blaze seem to have trouble making sense of what just happened before them. Up in the upper decks, several nobles sit/ stand awestruck at aftermath; some even shaking at the thought.

“Damn girl! You just got knocked the buck out!” A certain queen of pop proclaims, as she springs up from her seat and motions towards the fallen princess with a hoof. Several nigh nobles cover there’re mouths in a poor attempt to stiffen there laughter; failing poorly.

~***~

Nightmare Moon lets out a pained grown as she forces her eyes open and looks up at the creature that defeated her.

“It seems you have bested me.” The princess states weakly as struggles to keep her eyes open. “Do me the honor of granting me a warrior’s death.”

“No,” Sonic says firmly as he narrows his eyes at the fallen alicorn.

The ebony mare lets out a pained laugh. “Then you are weak, if you don’t kill me now, you’ll only regret it when I rise once more and…”

“Release Luna now and maybe I’ll let you live.” The former hedgehog commands.

“What’s wrong, afraid of not having your precious princess to rule over you? To tell you what to, how to live…” Nightmare Moon is cut off mid sentence as a massive hand clamps down onto her neck and lifts her several feet into the air.

“I don’t give a damn about that.” Sonic growls as he tightens his grip on the princess’s neck. Gaining a pained gasp in response, from the alicorn. “I want my friend back and if you can do that…” The former hedgehog trails off as he narrows his eyes and brings Nightmare’s face closer to his. “You know what will happen.”

Nightmare lets out an amused chucked. “Pathetic, you honestly think I’ll relinquish my hold on…”

The ebony are is cut short by a massive fist strikes her on the side of her already beaten and battered face. “I’ll snap your scrawny neck, if you don’t do it.”

“Really,”

“It will be easy, like snapping a toothpick.”

The color drains from the mare’s face as those words echo in her head. Given the current mental state of the former hedgehog, he would probably do it. Nightmare cringes as she notices Sonic raise his massive fist again and brings his shoulder back.

“Alright, alright, jeez,” The alicorn shouts just before the fist makes contact with her skull. “I’ll release your precious Luna, but know this,” The alicorn begins as black mist starts to escape her body and starts to take shape. “I will return and takes what’s mine.” Nightmare Moon lets out an evil cackle as the smoke fades.

As the last of Nightmare’s influence leaves the night princess’s form, the small form of Luna can be seen in the place the evil alicorn once stood. Releasing his hold on the princess, Sonic gently lowers the alicorn to the ground and smirks as she returns to her normal self.

“What in the name of Faust, just…” Luna trails off as she notices Sonic’s new towering form. The mare gulps and takes an attentive step back. “S-sonic, it that you?”

“The one and only,” The former hedgehog replies with a cheeky smirk.

The mare narrows her eyes. “What in heaven happened to you?”

Sonic lets out a nervous laugh as she scratches the back of his head. “It’s a long story; I’ll spare you the details, but…”

Loud chants and cheers cut the former hedgehog off as the crowd erupt in frenzy as they chant ‘Sonic’ over and over again; while others hoot and holler various encouraging chants.

Luna smiles as she takes a step towards Sonic. “It seems you have won the crowd’s favor.” The mare politely bows. “You have my thanks for saving….”

”Kiss, kiss, kiss, kiss,” the crowd chants in unison before the princess can even finish her bow.

“Well, I’d hate to disappoint my adoring fans.” Sonic jests as he gives the princess an amused smirk.

“Indeed, it would be unwise to turn down such a request.” Luna looks at one of her hooves and begins pawing at the loose earth. “I must warn you it was been quite some time, since we partook in such actions. We hope you don’t mind.”

Sonic grins and places as hand on the alicorns shoulder. “As long as you don’t mind that I’ve never done this while in this form.” The ebony mare silently shakes her head. “Good, then let’s…”

The former hedgehog is cut off as a hoof is brought to the back of his head and forces him into the kiss. Not wanting to be outdone, Sonic wraps his arms around Luna’s back and pulls her into a deeper hold resulting in a low moan as the mare melting into the hedgehog’s embrace.

~***~

Meanwhile at the royal balcony, several spectators aren’t amused with the princess’s forwardness.

“That damn harlot.” Blaze mutters under her breath as she digs her claws plush arm rests of the chair she currently seated at.

“What the hell, Luna?” Twilight asks no one in particular as she shoots the princess a death glare. “When did you start liking him?”

Applejack starts twisting her hat in her hooves. “That’s just low princess.”

“Yay, go Luna.” Pinkie chairs, totally oblivious to the situation. “Wait, why am I cheering?”

“Oh my,” Fluttershy mutters as she shifts awkwardly around in her seat. “That is certainly a big development.”

“That is just so unclothe,” Rarity states as she dramatically holds a hoof to her face. “Doing such things in public no less.”

Rainbow Dash remains silent as she starts breathing heavily through clenched teeth, as a yellow aura stars to rise from her from like fire. Applejack notices this and jabs the mare in the side.

“Ya ok there Dash? Ya look around ready to do something rash.”

The cyan mare snaps out of her frenzied stated and gives her head a few good hard shakes. “Yeah, just….didn’t expect to see something like that.

“None of us did.”

Celestia glances as the varied degrees of rage, resulting in her sister’s actions and then turns back towards the arena and lets out a heavy sigh. “What have you gotten yourself into, Luna?” Her eyes narrow. “You knew you weren’t the only one after his heart.”

~***~

Breaking from the passionate embrace, Luna gives Sonic a warm nuzzled and smile back as she rests her head on his shoulder. “By the stars, that was amazing.”

The former hedgehog chuckles and runs a hand through the mare’s enchanted mane. “I never get tired of hearing that.”

Luna frowns as the comment for a moment, but then shifts to a coy smile. “We shall discuses your lack of subtlety another time, but I must know. What exactly are you now; we simply can’t refer to you as a hedgehog at the moment.”

Sonic blinks at the question and then lets out an amused chuckle. “Oh yeah, that probably would help. I never really gave it much thought myself, but I’ve been called a werehog on more than one occasion while in this form.”

“Then that’s what you shall be,” Luna proclaims as she moves to Sonic’s side and lifts his right arm with one of her massive wings. “BEHOLD, YOU’RE NEW CHAMPION!” The princess announces, using her royal Canterlot voice. “SONIC, THE WEREHOG!”

The crowd explodes in excitement and begin cheering and chanting Sonic’s name. Luna smiles at the responses and gives Sonic a playful jab. “Send us off big guy.” Sonic grins and takes a deep breath and let's loose a ferocious howl; sending the crowd into an excited frenzy.

Next Chapter Preview:

Blaze: "Explain yourself!"

Twilight: "This is going to get a lost worse before it gets better."

Applejack: "Reckon, ah best be getting the buck out of here."

Sonic: "I am princess Woona, fear my adorableness."

Night Light

Author's Note

As the battle of titans concludes, we are left with the repercussions of the event. Why did the princess revert back to her evil form and why sis she seem to be so underpowered, or most importantly. Will she survive the night, with the collective anger from the element bearers and certain Sol Guardian out for blood?

You best start believing in nightmares, Sonic. Because you just face one.

Find out the answer to these questions nad and more on the next exciting installment of Battle for Equestrian.

Phew, now that was a challenge. I don't think I've ever written such a battle heavy chapter before. Which means it;s probably isn't that great...or it is and I just got lucky.

Let me know what you think in the comment section below.

All characters belong to their respective owners.

PEACE

A/N: fixed the errors you guys pointed out. Hopefully, I got them all.:pinkiehappy:

Old preview

Author's Note

Just an old preview I typed up a while back. I'm posting it here, since progress has been a bit slow as of late and figured a little teaser would tied you over till I get the next chapter up.

~Enjoy

Old preview

*start at 2:18 for optimal enjoyment.

Scene: A waxing moon shines in a cloudless sky.

When the balance of harmony is shifted…

Scene: Mountains of obsidian crumble, forests fall into molting magma, as a dark mist rises from the vocalic fissures.

Scene: A massive unknown army marches towards Equestria’s borders.

When those who wish to take everything; will stop at nothing to get it…

Iron Side: “This is bigger than all of us, it can’t be stopped.”

Scene: Sonic transforming into his super form.

Sonic: “We have to try.”

Scene: A battalion of pony troops marching towards an unknown location.

Unlikely alliances are formed.

Scene: Twilight standing beside a massive dragon while deflecting a large blast of red energy with a shield.

Scene: The sky blackening as an unknown mass flies towards Canterlot.

And one hero

Scene: Sonic running through an unknown forest; Zig-zagging through large clusters of trees.

Will lead them to battle

Scene: Sonic storming a barricade as a barge of magic bolts rain from above.

Sonic: “Well Skittles, you finally got your wish. Things are certainly going to get more interesting around here.”

Rainbow Dash: “Yeah, but this isn't what I had in mind.”

Scene: Sonic riding on Cloud Chaser with Filter following behind.

Sonic: “Dive, dive, dive!”

Scene: The sky explodes in a wave of yellow and red.

Filter: “What the buck is that thing?”

Sonic: “No time to explain; just go!

Scene: An unknown figure lands before Sonic in a grassy field.

???: “Oh, don’t look so surprised. You didn't think you’d get rid of me that easily.”

Scene: Blaze standing before a fallen, burned, and beaten Twilight.

Blaze: “You insult me, Twilight. When I offered to help you; I was under the impression you’d take this seriously.”

Twilight: *pained breathing* “I-I am.”

Blaze: “LIAR! You've been holding back this entire time! If you wish for your efforts to bear fruit, you must stop second guess yourself and come at me with everything you've got!”

Scene: The air shifts as Twilight's pupils white out, while her body is consumed by flames.

Blaze: “Excellent!” *tears off necklace* “

Scene: The sun princess watching a raging fire burn in the distance.

Celestia: *unfolds wings* “No, I’m not letting this happen again.”

Scene: Blaze and Twilight shield their eyes and turn away as something green explodes in the distance.

Twilight: “SPIKE!”

Scene: Applejack emerging from a large crater with a solum expression

Applejack: “No way, that varmint is getting up from that.”

Scene: Pinkie zipping around a barren landscape laughing like a banshee.

Pinkie: “Oh boy, nopony said it would be THIS much fun!”

Scene: Celestia and Luna turning away from an explosion.

Discord: “Destroy Chaos? What a foolish thought.”

Scene: Sonic’s cobalt fur turning dark as his purples white out as a scared Celestia and Luna look on

Discord: “You can try to overcome it, push to the back of your mind, but once the flame as been lit. It can’t be snuffed.”

Scene: The princess of love peering at something in the distance.

Cadence: “What is that?”

Guard: “I don’t know, but I don’t like the looks of it.”

Scene: Sonic running alongside the mane 6 as a stone path crumbles behind then with an unknown Pegasus in his arms

???: “I told you not to touch it, but no. You have to mess with it anyway.”

Pinkie: “Hey, I already said I was sorry.”

Scene: An angry Vinyl Scratch tears away a pair of broken sunglasses.

Vinyl: “Don’t think you've gotten us beat! This is our land…our home. And even if we fall, we’ll certainly avenge it!”

Rarity: *charges up horn* “Quite right, We won’t fall to some..some brute.”

Scene: Sonic riding on Luna’s back as they dive and bank trough the sky.

Sonic: “Faster, faster, faster!”

Luna: “Relax, Sir Sonic we are way…ahead.

Scene: Luna dodging a barrage of fireballs.

Luna: “What is the meaning of this?”

Sonic: “You told them anything goes. I guess they're taking things a bit too seriously. Hold steady I have an idea.”

Scene: Sonic balancing on the dark alicorns back brandishing a large claymore.

Luna: “That is not the intended use of that item.”

Sonic: “Just keep straight and give me a little juice; I got this.”

Scene: A fireball flies towards the duo, only to be knocked away as Sonic swings the now enchanted large sword like a baseball bat.

Luna: “Huzza! The fun has been doubled!”

Scene: Celestia and Blaze watch the fireball flies towards them.

Blaze: “Ah, fu-.”

Scene: Super Sonic and Burning Blaze flying alongside the alicorn sisters and Cadence.
Luna: “We fear this is going to get worse before it gets better.”

Scene: Nightmare Moon futilely attempting to hit a super powered Sonic with her magic blasts

Nightmare: “why does thee continue to dodge? FIGHT ME!”

Sonic: “You sure about that?”

Nightmare: “Yes, now…”

Scene: Sonic disappears from the black alicorns sight. Reappearing in front of her and striking her with a devastating right hook; sending the mare crashing into a nearby tower.

Twilight: “Wow.”

Celestia : ”Holy crap!”

Scene: Nightmare moon stomping around a cloud of dust.

Nightmare: ‘We are still standing, that can’t be all ye had.”

Scene: A large claw burst from the cloud and claps the princess's throat.

Scene: Sonic standing before a large group of stallions mares glaring at an elder brown male unicorn with a silver mane and tail.

Sonic: “No, you’re right. I’m not originally from here, but it’s still my home. *turns to the crowd* “But you can bet you’re brightly colored asses I’m going to defend it.”
Scene: Super Sonic and Rainbow Dash intercepting a massive object heading towards them.

Sonic: “YOU’RE STOPPING RIGHT HERE!”

Rainbow Dash: “RRRAAAAAA!”

Sonic: “CHAOS…”

Rainbow Dash: “…CONTROL!”

The battle begins

This summer!

Intermission

Intermission

“Everypony, this way!” A familiar voice commands as a certain lavender mare skids around a corner and then breaks into a full gallop. “Just a little further now, c’mon!”

With Twilight leading the pack, the mane 6 charge down the arena’s back hallways; each donning their respective element. The unicorn adjusts her tiara as she flicks back her head and fires a small burst of magic from her horn; casting the area in a faint pink light. Twilight frowns as she gestures to her right and turns down another corner.

“Over here!”

“I do hope it’s not that much farther, darling.” A certain fashionista laments and flicks her head to the side. “Had I known we’d be chasing evil spirits, I would have packed something more…fitting.” An amused snort draws the mare’s attention to a certain pegasus. “And what is it that you find so comical in this?”

“Oh nothing,” Rainbow Dash begins with a dismissive wave. “Just considering how much you usually pack whenever you leave the shop. I’m surprised that you didn’t bring something for just such an occasion”

Rarity growls and glares at the mare. “Sonic brought us here with his chaos magic, so I couldn’t… “

“Which, was so awesome!” Dash squees.

“True, but it didn’t allow me to bring anything I might need…later on.”

The pegasus blows a raspberry in response and pulls ahead. Prompting Rarity to roll her eyes in response and look back at a certain yellow Pegasus. “Fluttershy darling, are you ok?”

With a small shudder, the mare in question gives the fashionista a small frown and rapid head shake. “No Rarity, I’m not ok. I just had to watch one of my friends, battle the embodiment of nightmares.” Fluttershy shutter again. “Turning into that...that thing, just to prevent from being hurt…or worse.”

“Well ah if it makes ya feel any better, Sugar hog held his own rather well against Nightmare Moon just a minute or two ago.” A certain farm pony drawls as she slows her pace to match the frightened mares. “Ah figured ya of all ponies would be interested in…”

Applejack is cut off mid sentence as a flash a red zips past her; followed by a huge gust of wind.

“What in tarnation was…”

Everyone cautiously slows as they spot certain sol guardian standing at the end of two spitting paths of fire.

“Blaze uh, what are you...” Twilight attentively begins.

“Left,” The feline mutters out as she turns and disappears down the hallway.

“Wow!” Pinkie Pie proclaims in shock. “What ticked her off?”

The other remembers of the mane 6 slowly turn towards the party pony and gives her a flat look.

“What? Why is everypony staring at me like that?”

~***~

As the sounds of approaching hoof and footsteps draws near, Celestia and a small group of guards. Stand before a massive iron door with two female bat ponies standing in front of it.

“S-sorry princess,” One of the night guards shakily replies. “I’m u-under orders to not let anypony in, no matter the circumstance.”

The sun goddess narrows her eyes in response. “Even for me?”

“Y-yes p-princess, M-mistress L-Luna was very clear on you s-specifically.”

Celestia tilts he head and raises an eyebrow. “Mistress?”

“The night princess’s…companion said it as a joke and Miss Eco here took the term literally.” A voice snarky states drawing everyone’s attention to the other bat pony standing on the side of the door. “Miss Luna has asked that she not be disturbed, less the situation is dire and requires her attention.”

“Can she do that?” One of the Solar guards inquires as he turns to the princess.

“Yes,” Celestia confirms with a strained tone. “Lest one of us is not acting in the right state of mind or being controlled in some fashion. We have equal rule. So, while I can’t demand to be allowed entry, I can ask.”

“B-but princess,” The guard begins in a shaky tone. “You saw what went on out there; Princess Luna is obviously under that monster’s control!”

“I hope you don’t mean, Sonic.” A cold voice replies, inciting a cold shiver to run down a few of the guards spines; as a few turn towards a rather annoyed Sol Princess. “What is your name and rank, soldier?”

“Lucky Strike, Sergeant first Class; of our majesties Royal guard.” The stallion proclaims in ridged fashion and salutes the Solar Princess. “To protect the weak and defend our land against…”

“At ease Sergeant,” Celestia commands softly with a warm smile.

“Yes, ma’am!”

“By the stars and all that dwell within them,” Blaze comments as she shakes her head. “Your parents must have really hated you.”

And why do you say that?” The stallion inquires.

“You are named after a brand of cigarettes.”

As few of the other guards members start to snicker at the comment, while the General’s face turns beat red.

“Hey, maybe you can ask her for a light.” A guard comments, before he erupts in a fit of laughter.

“I always knew the sergeant was…” Another guard begins as he pauses for dramatic effect. “…smoking!” Several other guards and even the princess, poorly attempt to stifle their laughter.

“I guess Sarge can’t go anywhere in Manehatten, they just passed a smoking ban there.” A guard in the back adds, causing everyone to instead stop laughing and glare at the iron-clad pegasus.
“What?”

The sergeant grits his teeth in rage as he turns around to reprimand his men for misconduct, but stops as a loud moan echoes from the other side of the door. Everyone goes completely silent as another moan is heard; this one deeper than the last one.

“Oh my!” The unnamed bat pony comments as her face goes red.

“A-are they doing…w-what I think there doing, Nightingale?”

The mare now known as Nightingale shrugs and awkwardly clears her throat. “Well, that all depends on what you ‘think’ is going on in there, Echo.”

“Ah, I think I’m about to…” The high pitched voice begins, but is cut off by a loud crashing noise.

“Gah, already? This is like the third time now.” The other deeper voice says in a surprise. “Has it really been ‘that’ long?”

“You shall feel honored to know that you are the first to bring me to this point; in a very long time.” The night princess says in a seductive tone.

As the grunts and gowns continue, everyone stares blankly as the iron door. Most open there mouths several times; like a fish out of water. While a few mutter our various forms of not being paid enough for their job.

“That lucky bastard.” Lucky Strike mutters under his breath.

The sun princess’s wings go into a ridged pomp. While Blaze grits her teeth and begins channeling a large plume of fire into her right hand.

“What’s going on here?” A familiar voice demands, breaking everyone from there train of thought. As they turn to a certain lavender mare and her entourage. “Why is everyone standing here?” Twilight frowns as she notices everyone expression. “Why are you all blushing?”

Before the mare’s question can be answered, a feral growl echoes from the other side of the door; almost shaking it off its hinges and ground below it. Twilight’s eyes shrink to the size of pin dots as she fires a massive blast of magic at the door; knocking it clean off its hinges and sliding across the floor.

“WHO DARES TO DESTURB US?” An angry voice shouts, causing everyone to cover their ears. As a familiar disheveled alicorn steps into the hallway. “STEP FORWARD NOW OR –Sister?” Luna trails off as she spots the rest of the mane 6. “My friends, it is so nice to see you. What brings you to my humble resting quarters? Does thou wish to see…” The princess trails off she noticed the mixed looks she’s receiving. “Why is everypony staring at me like that?”

“Luna, what in heavens do you think you’re doing?” Celestia angrily asks as she closes the gap between herself and the night princess.

“Nothing that concerns them,” Luna states flatly as she attempt to smoother her rough appearance and gestures towards the Solar Guards. The Princess the smiles as she turns to her sister and the mane 6. “Come now, your presses in need in here. “ Luna frowns. “I shamefully admit that I was not able to finish the task at hoof.”

As the others awkwardly shift in place, Lucky Strike glares as his subordinates and then turns back towards the princess. “That was not ‘nothing’ something has transpired that…”

“Smokey is that you?” A deep voice inquires from within the room. “Didn't I tell you to get lost?”

Pinkie holds a hoof to her mouth as she attempts to stiffen a laugh. “I get it, because he’s named after a…”

“T-that is not for you do decide.” The stallion says in a shaky tone. “Only the Princess’s of the moon and sun can…”

“Don’t make me come over there!” The voice says with a deep growl, prompting the guard to let out a girlish shriek and hide behind Celestia.

“T--that won’t be necessary. I-I was just leaving.” He turns to his guards. “R-right?”

Noticing their commander’s plight, the guards let out an affirmed grunt, turned around and marched off.

“What a wuss.” Rainbow Dash states as she watched the guards scurry off.”

“Indeed, he seemed rather skittish around the princesses…especially Luna” Blaze adds as she crosses her arms behind her head. “Why is that?”

“A story for another day,” Celestia begins as she looks down at the two remaining bat ponies. “Less my sister has any objections, you two are dismissed as well.”

The two mares look at each other and then turn to the night princess, who gives them confirmed nod.

“Well alright then, if you’re sure.” Nightingale begins, waiting for a reply. When the sun princess nods, she continues. “We’ll in the barracks if you need anything.”

“Thank you, I shall summon you if we need anything.”

As the two night guards depart and disappear down the hallway, everyone turns to the night princess; who twitches at the sudden attention.

“What are you all staring at?”

The usual pristine and proper appearance of night princess is the question of everyone’s mine. Luna’s normally free flowing mane and tail drape lazily across her back; flashing in and out of enchantment like a drying florescent bulb. The alicorn’s usual flawless coat, is now matted and sticking up in several places. As well as a thin layer of sweat that covers most of her form. Gone are the princess’s royal regale; save for her crown. Though only do to a bounding spell that keeps it in place.
Luna awkwardly shifts in place as her sister and friends examine her. Everyone’s faces shifting from wonder to disgust as they continue to look over the alicorn.

“Is there something on my face?” The princess inquires as she attempts to glance at the tip of her snout; causing a few of the onlookers to let out a small growl. “Somepony please, explain what is going on here?”

Everyone ignores the midnight blue alicorns request and remains silent. Noticing her question remains unanswered, Luna turns to her sister and tilts her head to the side. “If this is some kind of joke, we are not amused.” The mare states flatly. “All we wish, is to know why…”

“Have you forgotten your promise to father, dear sister?” Celesta sternly asks, as she breaks the silence. “What we promised him before he passed?”

Luna nods. “Of course, we shall never…”

“What is going on out here?” A gruff voice demands as a mass of fur emerges from the doorway. “Someone knocked down the door, and then everything goes quiet as Smokey and the bandits left.”

Sonic steps into the candle lit hallway and stops as he’s about to pass Luna. Unlike the night princess, the former hedgehog’s appearance remains mostly the same; taken into account the current situation.

“W-what?” Twilight mutters in disbelief. “H-how? The princess looks like that.” The mare gestures to Luna. “While you look like…that.” Twilight says as she waves her hoof at Sonic.

Luna raises an eye brown in response to mare’s comment and then glances at the others; who share similar expressions of disbelief.

“I think they may have gotten the wrong idea of what we were just doing.” Sonic comments as he glances as the troubled expressions on his friend’s faces. “Maybe we should explain, before this goes sideways.”

The night princess turns to the former hedgehog and nods. “Agreed, it would be most troublesome if they came to the wrong conclusion.” Luna gestures to the room Sonic and she just emerged from. “Come now, lets us step forth and resolve this matter, away from prying eyes and intrusive ears.”

Luna steps to her side as she ushers the others through the doorway, but then extending a wing and stopping a certain lavender mare. Causing said mare to look up at the princess with puzzled look.

“Not you Twilight, not yet anyway. You need to repair these doors that were damaged from your magic.” The night princess snaps her wing back to her side and steps through the doorway. “We shall wait till you arrive.” Luna smirks. “Don’t take too long, it is in your best interest, to not keep a princess waiting.”

The lavender mare grumbles a few choice words as Luna steps through the doorway. “I’ll show her *mutter*. She has the nerve to...”

“You might want to stop doing that.” A deep voice says from the mare’s right. “I’m sure she can still hear you.”

Twilight snaps her head towards the towering form of Sonic. “Y-your still here?” The mare asks in a shaky tone. “I thought you’d be in there with the others.”

Sonic grins and steps towards one of the fallen doors. “And leave all this for you to clean up?” The former hedgehog lets out an amused grunt. “What kind of friend would that make me?”

“A bad one.” Twilight replies with a small smile.

“And why would I want that?”

Backlash

Chapter - 10

Backlash

Pain, uncaring intense pain shoots through the young unicorn’s head, pain of which she hasn’t felt since she was a filly. Twilight attempts to push past the pain, but it become too much and her legs begin to buckle.

“Hey, stay with me!” A voice familiar shouts within the depts. of the mare’s mind. “I need you to keep going, to not give up.”

“But it hurts so much!” Twilight shouts. “I don’t think I can do this!”

“Yes, you can!” The voice shouts again. “I know you can do it.”

“How can you know that, you don’t even know…” The mare’s voice is lost in her throat upon her realization. “No, it can’t be.”

~***~

Being a being of long life the moon princess has seen and expensed some things that would either kill a normal pony. Or simply drive them mad. However, in all her years the younger of the alicorn sisters hasn’t experienced such a powerful force, since she was a filly and witnessed her mother take on a beast of unspeakable evil from lowest level of tartarus. No matter how much magic she poured into the spell. A greater forced seemed to stop her. Only one being had such ability and they were no longer part of this plain of existence…unless.

Luna’s eyes snap open. “No, that’s impossible.”

“C’mon Luna, don’t back out now…”

~***~

Having known to be somepony to not take risks with the well being of her subjects, few knew that that didn’t always apply to herself. Despite being known as ‘all powerful goddess’ the princess that ruled the great land that many called homed. Was a bit of risk taker when it came to matters that didn’t directly affect her subject, but only to herself. Not once, but several times. Celestia has put herself in great danger to pay an old debt she owed someone or repay a favor that was given to her by less than perpetual individuals.

Like many times before, Celestia has emerged from this events relatively unharmed. Or at least not in bad enough shape, that it would affect her duties. However, today wasn’t one of those times. If this spell were to fail, it would not only be a blemish on her ‘public viewed’ perfect record. But it would also mean that Celestia let down someone that she considered a friend; something that the princess hasn’t had since the days of old.

As the spell begins to waver, the princess prepares to channel more magic into it. That is, until two massive hands grab onto her face; knocking her out of her train of thought.

“STOP!!!” A furious voice shouts directly into her face.

Celestia forces her eyes open and looks upon two emerald eyes staring back at her.

~***~

With one last push, the spell fades and effects of it begin to vanish. Tables, chairs, and other assorted objects caught with in the spells range. Clatter to the floor, either shattering or simple falling on its side. As the last of the light fades, a massive figure stands before the three. Celestia is the first to open her eyes and spots a familiar face looking back at her.

“Sonic?”

“That’s my name, don’t wear it out.” The figure jokes as he removes his massive hands from her face.

“Did it work?” Another voice asks as another figure steps towards the white alicorn. “No, this cannot be!” The voice shouts as moon princess falls comes into focus and falls to the floor. “We have failed.”

“What! No!” A third voice shouts as Twilight steps next to Luna. “But we did everything by the book. It should have worked.”

“Well it would have, but…” The large figure begins as it comes into view; raveling to be the still transformed Sonic. “We didn’t take into account that I can literally take anything you guys throw at me. Super magic constructs included, I guess.”

“Then we shall try again.” The sun princess proclaims taking a regal stance. “I shall not stop still…”

“Two of you can barely stand and you are about one teleportation away from passing out yourself, Sunny.”

Celestia goes silent and lowers her head as the statement sinks in. “You are correct, it would be foolish to attempt such an endeavor right away. I only wish that…”

“Hey, you guys at least tried.” Sonic calmly ads as he gently tilts the alicorn’s head upwards. “I’m just glad you are all alright.”

“But why did you stop me?”

Sonic scratches the back of his head as if trying to convey a proper reply. “This is going to sound weird, but I could ‘tell’ that you three were at your limit. Lune Bell especially, since she was already running on empty when you guys showed up.”

“We still wish that our efforts would have barred fruit.” Luna comments as she returns to her hooves. “It is our fault that you became this way and now we are unable to reverse it. We only wish that there was something we could do to replay what you’ve….” The alicorn is cut off as a Sonic places a finger on her lips.

“It’s ok, Luna Bell, you did what you could. I know you didn’t mean for this to happen. I’m not mad, so stop beating yourself up over it.” The former hedgehog places both hand on princess’s shoulders and smiles at her. “Can you do that for me?”

Luna nods as she whips a tear away from her eye. “We’ll try.”

Celestia let out an undignified huff and turns away. Sonic catches his action and turns his attention back towards the sun princess.

“Wait a minute, are you jealous?”

The sun princess keeps her head turned. “I am not something silly as jealous, just concerned that…”

“You are so jealous, it’s written all over your face.” Sonic proclaims as he advances towards the alicorn.

“Perhaps you need to get a-HEY!” The princess is cut off mid sentence as she is put in a proved headlock. “Release me!”

“Not until you admit that you were jealous.”

In a futile attempt to pull away, Celestia frantically scraps her armored hooves across the stone floor. In trying to find any sort of traction and pull herself from the predicament the alicorn has found herself in. However, do to Sonic’s statue, all the sun princess manages to do is scuff her hoof coverings.

“I am not amused, séance this foolishness at once!” The alicorn commands as she continues to attempt to break free.

The ebony alicorn makes a poor attempt to stiffen a laugh. “We don’t know dear sister; it is most amusing from where we’re standing.”

Celestia glares at her sister and then turns to Twilight. “Then perhaps you can…” The alicorn trails off as she notices her faithful student mirroring the actions of her sister. “Oh Twilight, not you too.”

“I-I’m sorry, p-princess.” The lavender mare forces out between her with attempts not to laugh. “But it’s just so funny.” The last of Twilight’s restraint crumbles as she bursts out laughing and falls to the floor. Luna follows suit and leaves a very annoyed alicorn alone in the matter.

“Very well then,” The princess begins as she powers up her horn. “We shall-HEY!”

“Ah, ah, ah, no cheating.” Sonic chastises as he pinches the tip of the alicorns horn with his free hand.

As the sun princess ponders what action to take next, the others start to emerge from there hiding spots and turn towards the scene before them.

“Well, that’s somethin’ ah’d not like to repeat any time soon,” Applejack comments as she rises from behind the trunk and retrieves her fallen hat. “Hopefully, Sugar hog is…WHAT THE BUCK!”

“What, what, I heard yelling what’s going?” Rainbow Dash demands as springs out from hiding spot. “I bet it’s something…” The mare trails off as she notices the sun monarch’s current predicament. “Whoa…cool.”

Rarity follows as she daintily steps from behind the trunk. “That was most unexpected, let’s hope that…” The unicorn spots the hulking form of Sonic holding Celestia in a head lock. “Wa-haha!” She shouts and promptly faints.

Fluttershy emerges next, but remains silent as she blushes profusely at the scene before her. “Oh my.” The pegasus mutters to herself as her wings ‘prompt. ‘

“Oh boy, that was something!” Pinkie Pie shouts as she bounces over the chest and joints the others. “Let’s do that again!” The party pony then turns to what the others are gawking at. “What’s everypony looking…” The mare trails off as she turns in the same direction as the others. “Ow, that looks fun too!”

Blaze emerges last and dusts herself off. “Well that was ‘interesting’ how me managed to fit behind that large fixture is beyond me. Perhaps it’s…” The feline stops short at she spots a rather amusing scene before her. Trying not to make a fool out of herself, the sol guardian holds a hand over her mouth and attempts not to laugh outright at the absurdity of it all.

Sonic turns to the others as they leave the safety of their hiding spot and then chuckles to himself as he turns draws his attention back to the princess in his grasp. “Well it looks like the gang is all here. I think it’s about time to come clean, Sunny.”

Celestia makes one last push to break free; knocking her crown off in the process. Before letting out an angry groan and clenching her teeth. “We have nothing to ‘admit’ to, so ‘please’ stop this at once.”

“Still too stubborn to fess up, hun? Well alright then, who about this?” Sonic says a he hold up his right hand above the alicorns head and balls a fist.

“Oh, he’s gonna do it, he’s gonna do it!” Pinkie proclaims as he start to bounce in place.

“Do what?” Rainbow Dash asks as she turns to the pink party pony.

“Yer going to havea be a bit more specific, sugar.” Applejack add as he mirrors the pegasus’s action.

“Noogie!” Pinky Pie shouts as Sonic’s fist makes contact with the alicorn’s head.

The princess lets out a shriek as the former hedgehog’s fist starts grinding into the dome of her skull. Celestia rear legs spasms out as she desperately tries to break free. “Stop, stop, stop it, stop,…” The alicorn starts to chant as she’s given a rather rough ‘punishment’.”

“Not till you admit it.” Sonic states as he doubles his effort, gaining another shriek from the alicorn.

Luna and Twilight rise from the floor as they attempt to collect themselves; only to spot the sun princess’s ‘plight’ and burst into laughter once more.

The others don’t seem to be bearing any different. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Blaze seem rather amused by the matter. Showing various forms of restraint on simply bursting out laughing forthright. With Dash failing as she rolls around on the floor. While Rarity remains passed out and Fluttershy continues to chuckle to herself.

“Alright, alright, I admit it!” The alicorn shouts in desperation.

“Admit what?” Sonic asks with a smirk as he tightens his hold.

“That, I’m a little tea pot short and stout. Here is my handle here is my….” The princess is cut off as she’s abruptly released from her hold and falls flat onto the floor.

The former hedgehog bursts out laughing at the sudden change in the princess’s behavior. “Wow Sunny, where did that come from?”

Celestia blushes at the question. “It’s just sort of came out.”

Sonic whips a tear from his eye and lets out a small chuckle. “I’ll take your word for it.”

As the others ‘recover’ from their reactions on the matter, the former hedgehog retrieves the sun princess’s crown and places it back onto her head. “All hail Trollestia,” Sonic proclaims with an exaggerated bow. Princess of mischief.”

The alicorn remains silent as she frowns at the remark.

“Oh come on, Sunny. It’s all in good fun, it’s not like…” Sonic trails off as the jewel on the princess’s crown falls off. “Opps, that’s not good, is it?”

Rarity springs to her hooves as if shocked by some unknown force and lets out a gasp. “How dreadful, you’ve damaged a priceless treasure of the royal…” The unicorn is cut off as the sun princess extends her ring wing.

Celestia turns towards the now nervous Sonic and gives him a small smile. “Hold out your hand.” The former hedgehog silent complies, with a look uneasiness still on his face.
With a flash of her magic, the princess uses her magic to remove her crown and places it into the werehog’s outstretched hand. Sonic glances at the object in his hand and raises an eyebrow in response.

“What’s this?”

“Crush it, with all your might.” The alicorn says with a warm smile

Sonic shrugs at the request and places both hands over the crown. “Sure, why not.”

As the former hedgehog’s massive hands press down onto the object, the buckling of metal can be heard as the crown crushed to a ball. Rarity faints at the action while the others look on with varied formed of intrigue.

“Ok that’s enough, let me see it.” The princess requests as she looks down at Sonic now opened hand. After a few moments, all that remains of the once prominent crown is a crumpled up spear that resembles gold colored foil.

Celestia’s eyes widen as she look down at what used to be her crown. “Wow, you really did crush that thing didn’t you?”

Sonic nods and raises an eyebrow at the alicorn. “I still don’t see why…” The former hedgehog is cut off as the ball of crushed gold levitates and starts taking on another shape.

“Wait, is that…” Twilight begins as she stares at the levating spear in amazement.

“Correct, this is composed completely of.” The princess pauses as the object in her magic grasp, transforms into a giant red apple. And then takes a bite out of it as a new crown appears on her head. “Magic.”

“But how? Applejack inquires with a confused expression. “How did sugar hog crush it, if wasn’t real to begin with?”

“Simple, it’s composed of ‘bound magic’ which takes on the properties of what it’s shaped as. So it will behave as such when interacted with. Though that doesn’t mean it’s immune to magic cancelation.” The princess gestures towards the werehog. “Had Sonic held the object any longer then I allowed. Then it would have disenchanted and turned to dust in his hands.”

“It has been used since before our rule.” Luna adds with a nod. “Though few know that we still practice it with our royal regale. So we ask that you not tell anypony.”

The group nods.

“To think, such an old spell is still so widely used.” Twilight squeezes in excitement. “I can only image what other such spell once existed that could…”

“Watch out guys, Twilight has gone in to egghead mod again.” Rainbow Dash exclaims as she trots past the unicorn; Insisting a laugh from the others.

“Excellent, now then we’ve been cooped up this room for far too long. Let us make hast and enjoy this night we have made.” Luna proclaims, unaware of the conversation behind her.

The group nods again, but stops at the state of the room. “What about,” Applejack begins, but is cut off as the ebony alicorn flashes a small burst of magic from her horn and restores the room to how it once looked. “Never mind.”

As the others prepare to leave, Sonic is stopped by an out stretched wing from the sun princess. A few stop and glance as the action, but the former hedgehog just waves is off and ushers them to keep going. “You guys go on head, I’ll catch up.”

Just as the door closes, after everyone else has left the room. Celestia drops her usually friendly demeanor and glares at Sonic. “I believe you know why I asked you to stay behind.”

“I have a vague idea,” The former hedgehog replies.

“Then you must know that…”

“Ok first off, it was a joke.” Sonic states as he cuts the princess off. “I meant it in all good fun, but if I over stepped my bounds, then I apologize.” He then holds up his hands in surrender. “Don’t hate me alright.”

“I could never hate you.”

The former hedgehog then rises to his full height, inciting a gasp from the princess as she back peddles away. “Then what’s the problem?”

“Your actions are most unprofessional when interacting with someone of the crown and…”

“So, you want to me to start kiss your ass is that it?”

The alicorn gasps at the question and snaps her head upwards. “What no, I just fear that my little ponies will get the wrong idea if they see us acting so…”

“Friendly?”

“Yes exactly, they may thing that…”

“What, that we’re a ‘thing’ or something?” Sonic asks with an amused chuckle.

Celestia shakes her head. “No, that we may be giving you special treatment and…”

“Come on, that can’t be the only reason you asked me to stay behind.” The former hedgehog interrupts. “Whats up?”

“Were in troubled times and we must…” The princess mutters to herself.

“Sunny?”

“We must be strong and…”

“CELESTIA!” Sonic shouts, breaking the alicorn from her train of thought. “Are you ok, what’s wrong?”

“I’m fine I just…” The princess’s resolve crumbles as she falls to her haunches. “No I am not ok, something bad is coming. I just know it, but I can’t rally my armies on a ‘feeling.’ Every pony would start to question my well being and…” Celestia trails off as a large hand is placed onto her shoulder. Following the hands owner, she looks up at a rather concerned werehog. “Sonic…”

“Now, I’m not going to pretend I know what’s going on because I don’t, but I have been noticing an increase in the behavior you and those other rulers had that meeting about a while back.” The former hedgehog then smile. “But if I can help in anyway just let me know.”

Celestia lowers her head. “Thank you Sonic, few would say such things and not have some anterior motive that..” The alicorn gasps as two large arms wrap themselves around her and hold her close. “What are you doing?”

“You looked like you needed a hug. If not then, I’ll…”

The princess shakes her head and wraps her massive wings around former hedgehog. “No, you’re right I did…more than I thought.” She says with a sad tone.

As the moments pass, neither say a thing to one another. Celestia rests her head on Sonic’s massive shoulder. While the former hedgehog runs a hand though the alicorn’s now disenchanted ‘pink’ mane.

“It’s funny,” The princess begins as she breaks the silence. “I have one of the largest armies in the lands that have sworn to protected me, every moment of the day and night. But I’ve never felt safer than I do right now. Why is that?”

“I don’t know, Sunny. Maybe you’re just a good judge of character or…” Sonic chuckles before continuing. “It’s my charming personality.”

Celestia giggles in amusement at the comment. “Or it’s all of thee above, or maybe it’s…” A loud grubbing cuts the princess off; incising a small blush from the alicorn.

Sonic lets out a chuckle as he removes his hands from the princess. “Well someone’s hungry.”

“Sorry, I’ve been so busy today. I haven’t had time to sit down and have something for myself.”

The former hedgehog steps towards the door and grabs the handle. “Well lets fix that, why don’t we.”

Next Chapter Preview:

Sonic: "Oh, now you've done it. You just had to go there."

Luna: "FUS RO DAH!"

Rainbow Dash: "There is no pony as awesome as me."

Pinkie: "Well that happened...oh boy."

Cresent Moon

Crescent Moon

Crescent Moon

Chapter - 11

Crescent Moon

“Hm, I wonder what they’re doing in there.” A certain pink party pony inquires as she turns to the closed steel doors. “We’ve been out here for a while now.”

“I’m sure it’s nothing,” Rarity states as adjusts her large brimmed hat. “The princess might have just wanted to speak with our dear Sonic, on a mater with sensitive information.”

“That or there making out.” Rainbow Dash adds with a smirk.

“RAINBOW DASH!” Rarity chastises. “What has gotten into you to suggest,”

“What? I can’t be the only one that was thinking that.”

“Speak for yer self, Dash. Ah fer one, figured that the princess has some words to say to sugar hog about his actions and what not.” Applejack says with a firm tone as she adjust her hat. “It seemed somethin’ fierce was on her mind and perhaps Sonic was the cause of it.”

Blaze begins tapping her chin as if pondering something. “Interesting, I too came to the same conclusion as Ms. Applejack here. Perhaps Sonic over stepped some kind of boundaries.” The feline then frowns. “Though, I can’t see what those would unless placing one of the crown in a restraint is considered some form of treason than…”

“Hardly,” Luna pipes in; cutting the sol guardian off. “While it’s considered in bad taste to perform such an action in that matter. It isn’t deemed as any sort treachery. However,” The alicorn raises a hood and makes a crude ‘unless’ gesture. “If harm were to come upon one of the crown than…”

“For a noogie, pfft please.” Pinkie jumps in (literally) with an annoyed huff. “I mean if Spiky actually hurt the princess, than that’d be different. But not for a something like what we just saw.”

“I’d have to agree,” Twilight adds as she rubs her chin. “I’ve know the princess for a long time and the only time she’s ever carried any sort of punishment was when…”

The mare is cut off as the two in question emerge from the double steel doors; chuckling and chatting amounts themselves.

“I know things can be busy,” Sonic begins as he continues to chat with the sun princess. “But you have to set some time aside to have a bite.” He then pokes the alicorn in the side to emphases his point; gaining a small giggle in return. “Otherwise you’ll waste away and….wait.” The former hedgehog then grins at the princess. “Are you ticklish?”

“N-no,” The alicorn chirp out in the least convincing way possible.

Sonic tilts his head. “Really now, so when I do this” He then pokes her in the side again; getting the same reaction as before. “You won’t start laughing again.” A large grin appears in the werehogs face, prompting the alicorn to start backing up.

“D-don’t you dare!”

“Oh I dare,” Sonic then holds up his massive hands and starts twiddling his fingers. “Prepare yourself for a most humorous…”

Someone clearing there throat, cuts the former hedgehog off and draws his attention to the one that made the noise.

“Well look at that, we have an audience.”

Celestia remains quiet as she shifts awkwardly and ruffles her wings.

“We hope that we aren’t interrupting anything.” Luna says with an all knowing smirk. “If you wish for some privacy then we shall…”

“That won’t we necessary.” The sun princess states as she draws everyone’s attention on her. “We were merry having a private conversation.”

The moon princess grins at her elder sister. “Really now? Because from where we were standing, it appeared that you two were having more than just a ‘private conversation’.”
“Oh, grow up sister.”

“You first,”

Celestia opens her mouth to comment on her sister’s behavior, but is cut off as a scroll sudden appears before her. “I wonder who that could be.” The princess mutters to herself as she unrolls the parchment with her magic and begins to read over it.

“What does it say?” Sonic inquires as he leans over the alicorn’s shoulder. “Wow, and guys say ‘I’ have bad handwriting. This looks like they wrote the thing with their mouth.”

“They probably did.” Applejack chimes in, breaking the mane six’s silence. Since the sun princess’s arrival.

“It says,” The sun goddess begins as she deceivers the message. “That my…” Celestia frowns at the parchment as if it insulted her. “Presence is needed in an important matter.
Placing a hand on the alcorn’s shoulder the former hedgehog gives her a sympathetic look. “Bummer, talk about bad timing. So, rain check then?”

Celestia nods and gives Sonic a sad smile. “Yes, it would appear we’ll have to schedule for another day.”

“What did you guys have planned?” Pinkie asks as she tilts her head. “Is that what you two were talking about in that room just now? Did you set up some kind of date?” The mare beams; totally oblivious to the reactions her question had on the others.

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle. “No, nothing like that. I was just going to suggest that we should get a bite, since Sunny here.” He gestures to the white alicorn. “Hadn’t had the chance to eat anything all day.”

Rarity gasps and approaches the princess. “That simply won’t do, we must resolve this matter at once.”

“That won’t be necessary, Rarity, They usually hold these thing in the royal dining hall; do it the amount to room. If not, than I shall grab something else ware.” The princess says firmly. “This shouldn’t take too long.”

“Well, I guess we’ll see you later, Sunny.” Sonic says in a sad tone. “Don’t be a stranger.”

The sun princess gives the former hedgehog a warm nuzzle. “I won’t,” Celestia then turns to the others. “My apologizes, I had hoped to spend tonight enjoying the festivities with you all, but my presences is needed else ware.” She then channels magic from her horn. “Farewell,” And then disappears into puff of golden smoke.

Just as the sun princess vanishes, everyone turns to Sonic with varied expressions; ranging from amused to annoyed, and even one of disgust. Though that could from the piece of ‘candy’ a certain pink mare found in the ground just now.

“Why is everyone looking at me like that?” Sonic inquires as he takes several steps back.

“Would ya kindly explain to us, what happen’ to make you and the princess all chummy all of a sudden.”

“Yeah! Why are you two now acting like old friends? Pinkie Pie adds as she bounces (literally) into Sonic’s face. “Also, I thought you didn’t know what a ‘nuzzle’ was. Now you don’t seem weirded out by it now.”

Just as the others approach sonic; probably with their own questions. Sonic holds up his hand in surrender, causing everyone to stop there advancement.

“Ok, for the record, I already knew what ‘that’ meant before asking about it earlier. I was just messing with you guys. I didn’t know it would snowball into what it did.” The former hedgehog turn to a now frowning lavender mare. “Sorry Twilight.”

“So now that, that’s outs of the way. What were you two talking about? It had to be something; or else the princess wouldn’t have been acting so…odd” Rainbow Dash says, with a hint of annoyance in her voice. “I’m just saying, it was pretty weird from where I was standing.”

“We talked,” The former hedgehog answers flatly. “Nothing more.”

“About what?” The speedy Pegasus inquires.

“Stuff.”

“What kind of stuff?”

Sonic lets out a grown and face palms. “Luna Bell, could you help me out here? I think they’re getting the wrong idea.”

“Well if you just told us,” Fluttershy begins in a soft tone. “We wouldn’t be asking all these questions.”

The moon princess raises an eyebrow at the butter yellow Pegasus’s comment and then begins to laugh.

“What’s so funny?” Sonic inquires in an annoyed tone.

Luna chuckles a bit to herself, before turning towards the former hedgehog. “We see what you mean, they think that ‘something’ may have happened between you two. Which obviously didn’t….or did it?”

Sonic frowns at the alicorn as he prepares to comment, but is stopped by the princess’s out stretched wing.

“Before you start to deny what we’ve said, please allow us to finish.” Luna then turns to the other before continuing. “As many of you know, our sister and us have ruled for a rather long time and will most likely still rule long after you’re all gone.” Everyone tilts their heads to the side; not following what the princess is getting at. Prompting the princess to clear her throat in uneasiness. “What we are getting at, is that we often don’t make many we’d call a ‘friend.’ Sure we sometimes form bonds with those that serve us or that we mentor, but those are often ‘limited’ by our standing; which tends to cheapen it, when you’re still referred to your title and treated as such. Now, we only speak for ourselves, but having somepony treat you as an equal and not your ruler is something we rarely see.”

Luna then turns to Sonic and smiles. “We believe our sister has found kinship in our friend here. Be it a simple friendship or something more.” The princess shifts awkwardly as notices everyone staring at her. “What that in tales, is not for me to say, but something you all should see for yourself.”

“Agreed,” Blaze says; breaking her otherwise silence to the situation. “While I have not lived for over a millennia. I do know what it’s like to be treated as a ruler and not an individual.” The feline looks up at the former hedgehog and smiles. “Before I met Sonic, I was rather distant with other and was quite stubborn.”

“You’re still pretty stubborn.” Sonic adds with a smirk.

The sol ruler frowns at the comment and then clears her throat before continuing. “Regardless, if hadn’t met Sonic and allowed myself to trust another. My lands would most likely be in constant battle and my life may as well be forfeit.”

Sonic chuckles to himself as he steps towards the lilac cat. “You give me too much credit, Blaze. I just did what was right.”

“Yes, but no else even stepped up and offered to help.” Blaze shoots back. “In fact, other than a few guards that were following there ‘duty’ everyone else just cowered in fear or pledged their allegiance to that monster that wanted to take over my kingdom.”

As the others become aware of their previous actions, Rarity lets out a small sigh and adjusts her large brimmed hat. “Perhaps we’ve been a bit too eager to jump to conclusion this evening. This is twice now that all of us assumed the worst and have made fools of ourselves because if it.” The mare looks to the others (who nod in agreement) and then back to the former hedgehog. “It wasn’t fare for us to put you in that sort of situation.”

“Yeah, it was kind of a carp thing to do,” Rainbow Dash begins as she ruffles her wings nervously. “Not really one of our brightest moments, hun?”

“Ah’ll say,” Applejack adds with huff of indignation. “We were plum ready to string poor sugar hog up for somethin’ he didn’t even do.”

As the others step forward to express their own apology, Sonic holds up a hand to silent them as the approach. “C’mon guys, it was just a misunderstanding. I’m not going to hold it against you anything.”

“But we acted like a bunch of spoiled fillies.” Twilight says in a sad tone. “How can you just let something like that go?”

“Simple, I know you guy well enough that you probably had your reasons.” The former hedgehog then smirks. “Plus, I can see how you got the wrong idea on this.”

As everyone lets out a collective sigh of relief, Luna places a wing onto Sonic’s shoulder. “Excellent, now that we’ve managed to clear up this little understanding. We must speak with Sir Sonic, on a pressing matter that has just come to our attention.”

“And what would that be?” Pinkie inquires as she tilts her head. “I mean we’re already friends, so what’s so important that you need to talk to Spikey in private…unless.” The party pony eyes widen as she gasps. “Unless were not friends and this has all just been a…”

“Relax Pinkie, were all friends here.” Sonic almost shouts as the pink mare begins to have an episode. “I’m sure Lunabell has something important.” He then turn to the moon princess. “Right?”

The alicorn nods in conformation before speaking. “Correct, it is something that I must tell you away from prying eyes and intrusive ears.” Luna turns to the others. “No offence.”

“None taken,” Rainbow Dash says with nod. “You have some super-secret spy stuff you have to talk to the big guy about, that’s not big deal.”

Luna chuckles in amusement, “No, it is nothing like that…”

“Good, because that would be so not cool.” The mare then turns to the former hedgehog. “Nothing personal, but we’ve saved the day a whole lot more than you and…”

Sonic grins at the flying speedster. “Is someone jealous?”

“No, I just want to know what’s going on.” Rainbow Dash snaps in indignation. “I think we all do.”

As the others voice similar comments, the moon princess lets out a heavy sigh and takes a deep breath. “Look, we merrily wish to talk with Sonic on about a few things, some regarding tonight’s proceedings. If ye wish to come along, you are more than welcome to come.”

The former hedgehog mirrors the alicorn’s expression as he begins pinching the bridge of his snout. “Seriously guys, are you are still bent out of shape about earlier? I thought we got past that.” Sonic then sighs again. “What happened to not jumping to conclusions and all that from earlier?”

“He’s right,” Blaze states firmly. “If we are not to learn from our mistakes. We are bound to repeat them…or however that saying goes.”

“Once again, our ruler from a distance land is the voice of reason. Thank you, Miss Blaze.” Luna says with a kind smile. “If not for your…as they say, ‘calling out ones nonsense’ we’d still be trapped in this endless squabble.”

Blaze ‘curtseys’ at complement. “Thank you, your majesty.”

“We were just curious,” Applejack interrupts. “It wasn’t supposed to get ‘this’ out of hoof.”

“I think everyone just need some time to cool off,” Sonic says as he turns to the others. “Why don’t we meet at that old fountain in Market Square in….let’s say an hour?” He then turns to Luna. “Will that be enough time?”

“More than enough, we shall randevu there and hopefully everypony has calmed down by then.” The moon princess says with a less friendly demeanor then before. Prompting a few to paw at the ground in embarrassment.

Luna then returns her wing to Sonic’s shoulder and begins directing him towards the exit. “Let us make hast, there is so little time and so much to discuss.”

“I thought you said,” Sonic begins with a confused expression.
“It was a joke.”

“Ah,”

As the two disappear on down the hallway, Blaze turns to the others with a stern expression on her face as she crosses her arms.

“We need to talk.”

~***~

Despite the late hour of the night, many still mill about the streets. As most of the games and food/drink stands remain open. Still offering a ‘frightening’ treat or experience to any that dared to take part in them. With most receiving an amused chuckle from adults or a slight bout of shock from any children still out an about…followed by fanatic laughing as they realize where there at.

‘Scary music’ still plays from the nearby speakers that dot the still bustling city. Some even attempt to dance to this; with most giving up trying to follow the rhythm and ‘free styling’ in a way that would make Twilight envious.

The ones still out, part to the sides as the princess and werehog walk towards them. Bowing to the ebony alicorn and giving the former hedgehog a firm nod.

“Well it looks like everything worked out.” Sonic comments as he turn to Luna; who is now in front of them. “I mean we have bowing and everything.”

The moon princess remains silent, drops her head and lets out a small sigh. “We suppose.”

Sonic raises an eyebrow at the alicorns response and quickens his pace, so he’s now only walking a few paces behind her. “You ‘suppose’? Was this was you were hoping for?” Luna ruffles he feathers slightly and continues her pace in silence. “Help me out here. What’s going on with you?”

Luna abruptly stops; causing Sonic to walk past her a few steps. Before turning around and walking back towards her just a small burst of magic leaves her horn. “Yes, this is what we wanted, but…” The princess sights. “Not like this. We put you in a situation that you were strongly against. And as a result, we may have lost a friend.”

The former hedgehog chuckles as he places a hand on the alicorn’s shoulder. “If I was mad at you, we wouldn’t be talking like this. It was just an accident, I know you didn’t mean for this to happen.”

“You say that now, but…” The alicorn begins in a bitter tone.

“’But’ what? I suddenly get mad at you later? C’mon Lunabell, you’re not making any sense.” The moon princess remains quite, inciting Sonic to continue. “I get why you asked me to do this, being feared for no reason sucks. That all you wanted is for everyone to look up to you, like your sister.”

“You know me all too well. “Luna mutters under breath. “Despite everything we’ve tried to do to make our subjects not fear us. It resulted in…something that…that.”

A massive hand tilts the alcorn’s upwards to a set of emerald green eyes. “Anyone that fears this wonderful night is a damn fool.” The form hedgehog gestures to the sky with his free hand. “Look at this, you’ve created all this. One day, others will wonder if there’s anything out there beyond the stars.” Sonic turns back to the princess and continues. “Yeah, the sun is nice and all, but it’s just so overwhelming. It’s everywhere and on everything. While on the other hand the moon casts this almost tranquil glow.”

Luna blushes at the remark and turns away. “If only others had your optimism, then maybe we wouldn’t have been forced to…”

“Give it time,” Sonic interrupts. “You’ve only been back for what…a few years now. And from what I’ve heard, you’ve been a bit of recluse.” The werehog grins at the princess. “Show the world that you can create a something as beautiful as the day, if not more so. And if that doesn’t work, keep trying with other things. You can’t undo several generation of misguided thoughts and stubbornness that easily; believe me I’ve tried.”

The alicorn looks back at the former hedgehog ad then begins to fidget as if not comfortable with her stance. “You really mean all that? That you think our subjects will see the night as you do…one day?”

Sonic’s expression lessens into a small frown. “Of course I do, why would you think that I…” The former hedgehog is cut off as massive wing wraps around the back of his head and pulls him into a passionate kiss. Unlike before, there is more force behind it. A massive tongue fights for dominance as it slides behind rows of pointed teeth. Not one to be pushed aside so easily, Sonic doubles his efforts as he grabs a handful of the alicorn’s mane; which incites said mare to increase her own.

After a back and forth for control, the two break for air and lessen the grip they have on each other. A now blushing Lune slowly opens her eyes and looks at a now smirking Sonic. “So…that happened.” The alicorn mutters as she shifts awkwardly in place.

“Where did that come from?” The former hedgehog says before cautiously holding up his hands. “Not that I’m complaining or anything.”

“Not many…”Luna trails off and takes a deep breath. “Not many have expressed such fascination with our night. Fewer still say it with such enthusiasm. Maybe hearing it from a friend, brought on such actions.”

“Or maybe you just wanted another go after what happened in the arena.” Sonic grins as he crosses his arms. “Not that I blame you. You seemed to be a bit taken by it before.”

The princess frowns at the former hedgehog’s accusation. “You seem rather full of yourself, Sir Sonic. If we didn’t know any better, we’d say that you were expecting this.”

“Not at all, but it was still awesome.” The former hedgehog states as he grin increases. “So much in fact that…” Sonic trails off as he notices everyone still milling about as if unware of what just happened. “…I was expecting a round of applause.”

“You’d like that wouldn’t you?” Luna asks with a delish smirk. “Luckily, I casted a privacy shield once we started talking. We’d hate to think what would happen if anypony saw us.”

The former hedgehog taps his chin. “Cleaver, I figured you’d do something like that.”

“And yet you were hoping for an audience.”

“Hey, it’s not every day the princess of night leaves the castle and interacts with her subjects. I figured they’d be less skittish if they…”

“Saw us engaging in acts unbecoming of a princess?” Luna asks with the same expression as earlier.

“I was going to say ‘being less formal,’ but what you said works too.”

Luna frowns at the statement as she walks away from Sonic and playfully swats him with her tail as she disengages the barrier. “Come along, there is still something else we want to show you.”

Sonic lets the alicorn get a few paces ahead before following. “Well someone is feeling better.”

“Indeed.”

Next chapter preview:

Sonic: "How did something like this get here?"

Pinky: "Oh, is so fluffy, I want to touch it."

Twilight: "I-I've been wanting to ask you this for a while."

Blaze: "Well, would you look at that."

Werehog in Equestria

Werehogs in Equestria

Chapter - 12

Werehogs in Equestria

With most of the attractions and concession stands still open, the mane 6 and Blaze are able to partake in the festivities. With Blaze playing a ball toss game with Dash; both trying to see who can knock over the stack of milk bottles first. While the others look on, with varied expression from the conversation earlier.

“Uh, yer not still mad are ya Blaze? Ah mean you seem might upset earlier and…well it’s been a while since then, so…” Applejack cautiously asks as she keeps her distance from the Sol Ruler.

“I’m not mad, miss Applejack. I’m just a tad disappointed that you were all acting that way.” Blaze says calmly as she knocks over the stack of bottle; much to Rainbow Dash’s annoyance.

Rarity appears on the feline’s side. “Are you sure, darling? I don’t think I’ve ever seen you that upset before and…”

“I’m fine,” Blaze snaps back as she slams a bit on the counter and receives three more balls. “As long as you all, think before acting for now on. Everything…will be fine.”

“You are so not ‘fine’.” Rainbow Dash mutters as she tosses a ball at her own stack of bottles and only manages to knock over one. “Darn it,”

Blaze smiles as she successfully knocks over another stack of bottles. “I don’t know, Sonic seems to think so.” Everyone stops cold and turns to the feline. “What?”

Pinkie bursts out laughing and falls to the ground. “I get it, it makes sense on so many levels.” The party pony says between her fits of laughter.

The Sol ruler chuckles to herself and makes another successful toss; knocking over another target. “Glade to see at least someone knows how to have a good time.” Her face then shifts to a frown as the picks up one of the remaining balls. “To think you all thought, he’d blindly take the first one to throw themselves at him.”

Most of what Blaze says goes unnoticed by the others, except for one very specific unicorn; who gives the feline an all knowing nod.

As the last of the bottle are cleared from the platform, Blaze turns to a now frowning red female unicorn with a clown wig on. “I believe that makes an even six.”

“Yeah so,” The mare mutters out as she uses her magic to collects the fallen bottles.

“Did you say, that if I were knock over six sets over in a row, you’d show me the ‘real prizes’ and not these cheap imitations?” The felines asks as she gestures to a badly stitched stuffed bear.

The unicorn lets out an annoyed grown as she uses her magic to remove a panel; revealing several finely crafted stuffed dolls and one very familiar one.

“No, it can’t be…”

~***~

“What in the world?” Sonic proclaims as he snatches a stuff toy from a nearby vendors display. “Where did something like this come from?”

Luna turns to the former hedgehog and then turn to the item in his hands. “That’s impossible.”

“This is me!” Sonic shouts as he gestures to the object in his hand, but then clears his throat before continuing. “I mean this looks just like me…the normal me anyway. How did something like ‘this’ get here?”

“Aw, that’s one of my most popular prizes here.” An elderly male pegasus states as he motions for Sonic to return the doll. “Folks been lining up around the block for one of those things. Can’t see why though, who’d want a stuffed pushie of that weird critter that just runs really fast.”

The former hedgehog glares down at the stallion; who in turn cowers beneath the towering form. “Were did you get this? I don’t remember giving anyone the ok to make anything like this.”

Still somewhat shaking, the elderly pegasus turns away and ‘attempts’ to put on a strong face. “I an’t tell no pony, a bunch of fellers have these. Why am I the only one being targeted?”

“You do know that profiting off of somepony’s likeness, with out there consent is a rather steep fine and can land one in dungeon for an unspecified about of time.” Luna states with a firm tone as she mirrors Sonic’s reaction. “However, if you were to tell us of individual that sold you these and handover what you have in stock. Then, we’d a bit more lenient with the charges.”

Spotting the night princess the stallion gulps and tries (poorly) to act aloof about her appearance. “Ah, P-princess Luna, I didn’t see you there. Pardon an old stallion for his misforctions, but the eyes aren’t as great as they used to be.”

“Right,” The alicorn says as she rolls her eyes. “If you happen to know of the individual who is trying to profit from my friend then….”

“Oh of course,” The pegasus almost shouts as he cuts the princess off. His eyes then widen as he realizes what he just did. “I beg your pardon, princess. I’ll get that information for you in a moment.”

The stallion disappears behind his display for a moment, but then returns with a scroll tucked under his wing. “Here you go, your highness.” He says, as he passes the parchment to the waiting princess.

Luna unrolls the form and reads it over. “Let’s see, 1000 units shipped to ‘Feather’s Fantastic Toys’ from Manehattan, by a company called ‘Polomare Industries’.” The princess read further down the scroll. “Personally, by a one Suri Polomare, hm. We’ll have to have a little chat with this ‘Suri’ at some point.” The alicorn looks up from her scroll. “Mr. Dust Feather,”

“YES!” The stallion shouts as he takes a ridged stance.

“Thank you for this information, it will help. If you can gather all remaining dolls in my friend’s likeness and return them to the castle by noon tomorrow. We shall overlook this for the time being.”

“Yes of course,” The pegasus shouts as he solutes the princess with his wing. “But I wasn’t the only one has this as you can see.” The stallion gestures to numerous stands; each with some sort of sonic themed stuffed toy at it. “How will you collect those as well?”

Luna frowns as she looks at the other vendors; all of which are now nervously collecting there ‘Sonic related merchandise’ for the Princess. “Oh, you leave those to me.”

“Please do,” A muffled voice says to the Princess’s right. “Someone is making a killing off of this and I doubt they have the best intentions in mind.”

The alicorn turns towards the source of the voice and spots a certain werehog chewing on a large piece of red taffy. “Where did you get that?”

“Back there.” Sonic states as he points to a concession stand several feet back. “You want some?”

Luna nods, “If it’s not too much trouble.”

“Hold on,” The former hedgehog begins as he’s about to hand the alicorn a part of his, but stops and clears his throat. “Right, sorry hold on.” With one simple wave of his arm, Sonic extends is reach far beyond any feet he’s shown earlier. His hand almost diapering into the distance; only to reappear just as fast, with a large piece of blue taffy in it.

“How’d you know blue berry was my favorite?” Luna inquires with a raised eyebrow.

Sonic shrugs before passing the treat to the princess. “Lucky guess.”

“We have a winner!” An enthusiastic green male earth pony exclaims as holds up a familiar stuffed toy and then passes to a certain speedy pegasus. “Another one of tonight’s popular picks for the daring explorer.”

“Yes!” Rainbow Dash squees as she grabs the stuffed toy and begins nuzzling it; only to suddenly realize where she is and instantly places it on her back. “I mean, awesome and it’s Daring Doo, by the way.”

“Well it’s a very nice costume,” The vendor complements before going back to his shtick. “Now everypony step right up and win a prize….”

“Well ah guess that’s now everypony.” Applejack states as she adjusts a familiar stuffed toy on her back. “Ah reckon be best be moseying on to the fountain. It has to be time by now.”

Blaze reaches into her dress and removes the pocket watch and flicks it open. “Just about, we still have a few minutes. However, given the current amount of individuals still out. We should head over there now, or else we might be late.”

“You’re starting to sound like, Twilight.” Rainbow Dash comments as she tugs at her vest.

“You say that, like it’s a bad thing.” The lavender mare shoots back, much to the pegasus’s dismay.

Dash’s eyes widen as the realizations sets in. “Wait, that’s not what I mean. I was just saying…”

“We can discuss your tendency of sticking your hoof into your mouth another time.” Rarity interrupts as she begins leading the other away. “We must make hast, it is in very poor taste to make a princess wait.”

“Da, da, da, da, da, da, charge!” Pinkie shouts as she makes a beeline for the fountain.

“Well somepony is excited,” Fluttershy mutters to herself as she follows the others to market square.

~***~

“So, I’ve been wondering,” Sonic begins as he matches the alicorn’s pace.

“Yes?”

“What do you think would have happened, if we had gone all out from the beginning of that match and not held back like we did?”

Luna chuckles to herself and shakes her head. “There wouldn’t have been anything left if the arena if we did that.” The princess turns to the former hedgehog and smiles. “While we only speak for ourselves, the amount of power that could have been thrown around. Would have led to a vast amount of collateral damage on both sides.”

Sonic snickers at the comment as he too shakes his head. “I was thinking the same thing, we are a force to be reckoned with, when provoked. Glade to know that you’re on my side.”

“As are we,” Luna says with a warm smile, which then shifts to a frown as she continues. “Speaking of which, there is something else we wish to discuss with thee.”

“Shoot,”

“Well, it’s about earlier. We believe our actions we’re not of clear mind and simply as they say ‘in the heat of the moment’. The alicorn confesses with a sad tone. “We hope you don’t think less of us this.”

The former hedgehog remains silent and continues to walk at a steady pace. Creating an uneasy feeling in the pit of the alicorn’s stomach. Despite the festivities going on around them. The only thing the princess can uneasy expression on her possibly ‘former’ friends face. An array of emotions pass across Sonic’s features, from annoyance, sadness, relief and finally acceptance.

“So you want to take a step back and test the waters before taking the plunge?” Sonic finally says, breaking the uncomfortable silence. “I can respect that.”

“Ye are not mad?” Luna asks hesitantly and begins to bite her lower lip in anticipation of what the response is.

“Pfft, hardly,” Sonic states with an amused chuckle. “To be honest, I had a feeling ‘that’ was the case. Given everything that has happened and all.” He then turns to the alicorn and places a hand on her shoulder. “Things got pretty hectic around here, so I think it’s safe to assume neither of us were really in the best state of mine at the moment.”

Luna nods in agreement. “Agreed, it has been one of those nights.” The alicorn then places a wing on the former hedgehog’s hand. “Thank you for understanding.”

“Hey no problem,” Sonic eyes then widen as something occurs to him. “Wait, this sort of thing happens often?”

The princess chuckles and shakes her head. “Hardly, we shall explain at a later time. We’re almost at the fountain.”

“Cool, I can show everyone what I won.” A comically misshaped stuffed toy of a certain princess of the night suddenly appears in the former headgehog’s hand. “I am Princess Whoona,” Sonic begins using an exaggerated tone in his voice. “All fear my adorableness.”

“Then we shall show our friends this.” A rather realistic stuffed version of Sonic appears in front of the alicorn and is instantly caught in her magic. “This is way past cool.”

Sonic frowns at the princess. “No, if you’re going to do that you need to do the voice.”

Luna sighs, “Oh very well.” The princess clears her throat. “This is way past cool.”

“Better.”

~***~

“Ugh, were are they?” A certain speedy pegasus whines as she rolls onto her back from her resting area on the ring of the ornate fountain; almost losing her hat in the process. “We’ve been waiting here forever.”

“Actually, it’s only been 5 minutes.” Blaze comments still looking down at the watch, while sitting on the opposite side. “A little patents goes a long way.”

“pfft, says you.” Rainbow Dash retorts. “I’m the fastest flying in Equestria. Meaning there is no ‘waiting’. Things either happen right this moment or not at all because….”

“Oh for Pete’s sake, could you for once not lose it when somepony asks you to relax for a moment.” Applejack snaps rolls off a nearby bench and begins trotting towards the usually cyan mare. “Ah mean, ah get why you want to get moving, but this is just ridiculous.”

Rainbow Dash swings around to give the farm pony some snarky comment, but is stopped as Fluttershy steps between them. “Now come on everypony, let’s not fight. We’ve seen enough of that tonight. So let’s just sit back and wait for Sonic and the princess to show up. I’m sure they are almost here.”

“Yeah sure, five more minutes and then I’m gone.” Dash mutters as she looks way.

“Thank you, Miss Fluttershy.” Blaze says as she looks up from the watch.

The butter yellow pegasus fidgets at the complement. “It was no problem…really.”

“Why is everypony so on edge lately?” Twilight mutters as she looks over a rather long scroll. “It’s like there’s something in the air that’s making everything intense.”

“Yeah, it’s like there’s something in the water that makes all go nuts.” Pinkie adds in a serious tone.

Rarity giggles at the party mare’s comment and shakes her head. “Pinkie darling, there is nothing in the drinking water. I believe it’s just that we…”

The rest of the mare’s comment is cut off as everyone falls silent as two figure appear in the distance. Towering above the almost endless crowd of patrons, stands one very specific alicorn and former hedgehog. Both seem to be in friendly conversation as they navigate the ground and close the gap between them and the fountain.

“So you think I should stay ground side for a few days? Is the really that bad?” Sonic inquires as he looks at the ebony alicorn with a concerned expression. “I mean I kind of live in one at the moment, so it might me a bit difficult.”

Luna shakes her head and smile. “We doubt the effects will last more than a day or so. It just would be wise to take every precaution, before we know if there are any long term effects of what has caused your transformation.” The alicorn’s smile fades. “You did crash through quite a few of them during our match, so it’s safe to assume your abilities to walk on them are in question.”

Sonic hold ups his hands in defeat. “Alright, I get it. I’ll find some place to stay for a few days till we know for sureif I’m going to turn back this for some reason.”

“Well if you need a place to stay, I may be able to provide that.” A third voice says, breaking the two away from their conversation and towards a certain stylishly dressed fashionesta. “That is if you don’t mind a cozy room that is.”

“Ah Miss Rarity, always eager to help others. A trait that will get you far, we assure you.” Luna comments as she looks down at the white unicorn.

The mare blushes at the complement and rubs her right foreleg against her left. “I was just trying to be a good friend.”

“That is ‘only’ there’s a chance Sonic needs to stay there. Else he’s staying put.” Rainbow Dash says with a cocky smirk.

Sonic shakes his head and then turns to the moon princess. “Well it looks like this is my stop. It was nice chatting with you, we should do it again sometime.”

Luna nods in agreement. “We would like that,” A small pendent puffs into existence and is then instantly caught in the alicorn’s magic. “Take this, it will allow me locate you if there are some complications later this evening or if we’re unable to find you before sunrise.” The princess uses her magic to hang the necklace over the werehog’s neck.

Sonic looks down at the new item and then back at the princess. “Hey thanks.

“You’re welcome.”

The alicorn then turns to the others and takes a regal stance. “For now we must part ways as the work of a princess is never done, but we shall meet once again.” Luna then smiles. “Sooner than you think. Farewell.” The ebony mare then disappears in a puff of blue smoke.

As the smoke fades, Sonic turns to the mane 6 and notices each has a stuffed version of him on their backs. “So, you guys planning on explaining why you all have those or are we going to just ignore that?”

“They were game prizes,” Pinkie announces with an excited bounce. “We all have one!”

“Or course they are,” The former hedgehog says in a flat sarcastic tone. “Just perfect.”

As everyone begins to shift in place as if uncomfortable with the situation. Sonic claps his hands together, to get everyone’s attention. “We’ll get to how many ways that’s messed up at another time. Rarity,” The former hedgehog points to the white colored mare, prompting her to go ridged at her name.

“Y-yes,”

“You cool with me crashing with you for a few days, till we figure if this will keep happening?”

“I-I wouldn’t have offered if I wasn’t” The mare shudders.

Sonic nods and then turns to Rainbow Dash. “That sit well with you?”

The mare in question shrugs. “You gotta do what you gotta do, if that means you have to stay groundside for a few days to make sure you don’t fall through the floor. Then it’s ok with me…assuming of course you don’t get turned into one of Rarity’s ‘projects’.”

“I would never think of,” The fashionesta begins with a huff, but is cut off.

“Good enough,” Sonic then points to the Sol Guardian. “Blaze,”

“Yes,”

“You cool with bumping that’ thing’ back a few days? Just to make sure I don’t keep turning into this anymore.”

“Of course,”

“What sort of…” Applejack begins to ask, but is interrupted by an outstretched hand.

“Not important.” The former hedgehog then looks at the others. “Anyone have any questions?” Everyone shakes her head in response. “Great, now let’s….why don’t you do the honors Pinkie?”

“With pleasure,” The pink mare says with an excited bounce. “It’s Party time;
P-A-R-T-Y? Because we Gotta.”

“Well said,” Blaze adds with a nod as she and Pinky lead the mane 6 towards the still rather active festivities. Well except for one individual.

“Excuse me. Can I talk to you for a second?” A small voice says to the former hedgehog’s right.

Sonic looks down and spots a very nervous unicorn looking back at him with a forced smile. “Hey you got yourself a new costume, it looks nice.”

The mare blushes in response. “T-thanks.”

“So, what’s up Twilight?”

The mare begins pawing at the ground. “I was wondering….” She takes a deep breath. “If you weren’t doing anything this weekend that…” Twilight then begins forcing down the lump in her throat. “You’d want to check out this new restaurant that opened with…me.” The unicorn finishes as she clenches her jaw and forces her eyes closed, as if waiting to be struck.

“Like a date?” Twilight nervously shakes her head; as if still prepared for what she thinks is going to happen. “Sure,”

Twilight’s eyes snap open as she looks up at a smiling Sonic. “R-really? Y-you really would go with me?” The mare’s eyes begins to sparkle with hopeful joy.

“Of course,” Sonic then gestures to himself. “Assuming of course, I’m not still tall dark, and scary.”

“Even if you were, I’d still be ok with it.” Twilight then grins in a way that would rival Pinky’s “I can’t believe I finally worked up the courage to ask. Is that weird? Please tell me it’s not weird. Because I know it’s weird that…”

A large hand stops the unicorn mid rant as it’s gently places on her side. “Relax Twilight, all you had to do was ask.” The mare freezes upon the realization that she made it a bigger deal then it really was. Seeing the unicorn about to go into colossal meltdown. Sonic shifts the conversation to something else. “So, what did you have in mine?”

The question snaps the mare out of her mini episode as she looks up at a still smiling Sonic. “Well I plan on to keeping it low key, but I also want it to be a surprise,” The mare grins. “So you’re just going to have to wait and see.”

“Cool, this should be fun.” The former hedgehog the motions to the group as they slowly fade in the distance. “Now come alone ma’ lady, we best not be left behind.”

Twilight nods and skips ahead with a bit of bounce in her step while Sonic follows behind.

Next Chapter Preview:

Sonic: "Well, I usually don't make house calls, but this time i'll make an acceptation."

Pinky: "This is so comfy."

Twilight: "Is is just me or is everypony on edge?"

Blaze: "Let us not resort of underhanded tactics here."

Bark at the Moon

Bark at the Moon

Chapter - 13

Bark at the Moon

“I’m bored,” Pinkie whines from her perch on top of Sonic’s back. “We’ve done everything and now it’s all ‘boring’.” The mare drones as she rests her chin on the former hedgehog’s head.

“You know, if you’re just going to keep complaining. Walking is always an option.” Sonic dead pans as he pushes a puff of the party pony’s mare out of his face.

Pinkie tenses up and begins shifting in place. “N-no you don’t have to do that. I meant the games and attraction are lame. Not being up here, which is like…” The mare begins nuzzling the former hedgehog’s neck. “Like a big adorable fluffy teddy bear that walks.”

Sonic stops dead in his tracks. “Ok, rides over, you just make it weird.” As the werehog kneels down to let the mare off. Pinkie begins pouting and latches onto a large patch of the former hedgehog’s fur.

“I don’t wanna! I’m not going anywhere!”

The former hedgehog lets out a heavy sigh. “C’mon Pinky, I’m not in the mood.”

“I said I don’t…eep” The party mare freezes mid rant as a large hand grabs onto her midsection and lowers her back to the ground. “Aw, no fair.”

As the party pony continues to pout, Sonic pinches the bridge of his nose and lets out a grown. “Pinky you really have to stop with the….”

“Hey you guys coming or what?” A voice shouts in the distance, cutting the former hedgehog off and drawing his attention to the source.

Rainbow Dash looks back at the two with an annoyed look on her face. “I thought we agreed to be civil, Pinky. What gives?”

The party mare covers in mouth in shock. “Cripes, I totally forgot. Now Blaze is going to get mad at me again.”

“Blaze got mad at you?” Sonic inquires as he closes the gap between himself and Rainbow Dash. “About what?”

The speedy pegasus lets out a heavy sigh and leads them towards the others. “I guess we were acting a bit possessive and Blaze explained how ridiculous it was.”

“I’ll say,” Sonic adds with a smirk.

Dash clears her throat. “Anyway, we all agreed to stop acting like that and try to have some fun.”

“Or else what?”

“Fire, lots and lots of fire.” The mare says grimly.

“Fair enough,”

As Rainbow Dash leads Sonic and Pinkie back to the others, they stumble onto rest of the group in varied forms of exhaustion. Fluttershy and Applejack lay curled up on a nearby bench, while a snoozing Rarity leans up against Twilight; who is rubber necking as she looks over a piece or parchment and lazily held in her magic grasp.

Blaze remains the only one still standing as she rolls a small orb of across each one of her fingers, while leaning against an ornate lamp post.

“Hey I found…,” The usually cyan mare begins, but is cut off as both Blaze and Twilight shush her. “I found them.” Dash says in a quieter tone. “So what do we do now?”

“I believe we should call it a night, everyone is exhausted and not much is still open.” Blaze states, still looking down at as the small ball of fire rolls across her hand. “Do we have dwelling for the night or are we supposed to find some of our own?”

Twilight rolls up the scroll she was reading with her magic and levitates it over to Blaze. “I just received this a moment ago, we have a few rooms for the night at the castle. Assuming of course, nopony minds sharing a room.”

“Sharing a room?” Rainbow Dash repeats in an uneasy tone. “How many and why?”

The Sol Ruler unrolls the parchment and looks it over. “It says here that do to the short notice, only four rooms were able to be procured for the evening.” Blaze continues reading. “So that means two per room, unless you guys all want to all stay in one.”

“So somepony gets to stay in a room with Sonic?” Pinkie asks with a joyous expression. “Oh, I so call dibs.”

Everyone still conches face palms/hoofs at the mare’s comment.

“I thought we went over this.” Blaze growls as she removes her hand from her face. “We all agreed to give this nonsenses a rest.”

“Besides, I’m probably not going to have a chance to sleep night.” Sonic states as he looks down at a now distraught Pinkie Pie. “I have to meet up with the princess to make sure they can stop,” He gestures to himself. “This from happening again.”

Pinkie’s eyes widen as if suddenly stricken by some form of realization. “Wait, you guys didn’t think I wanted to do ‘that’ with Spikey? I mean it would be nice if…” The mare cuts herself off. “Not I would try it unless…” She then vigorously shakes her head. “Cripes, I’m just being a silly Pinky today an’t I?”

“That’s one way of putting it.” Rainbow Dash says in a snarky tone.

“Anyways, lets…” A voice in the distance cuts the former hedgehog off mid-sentence.

“I finally found you!” A familiar cream colored female earth pony with a red, orange, and green mane/ tail shouts comes into focus. As the sound of frantic hoof steps comes near. “You wouldn’t believe how long it…” The new comer is cut off as everyone shushes the mare; who screeches to a sudden halt. “You wouldn’t believe how long it took me to find you.” The mare repeats in a hushed tone.

“I’m sorry, but who are you?” Blaze asks as she approaches the now frightened mare. “I don’t believe we’ve met.”

“Not ringing a bell from me either,” Twilight adds a she gives the new comer a flat look.

“Nope, I have nothing. “Pinky Pie, just for the sake of being Pinkie.

The former hedgehog approaching the cowering mare and leans down, so that he’s now eye level with the pony. “Gum Drop?”

The pony now known as gum drop nods and smiles sheepishly. “I’ve been trying to find you for a while. You still owe me for helping you earlier.”

“How the hay did you miss him?” Rainbow Dash asks in annoyance. “I mean look at him,” The mare then gestures to Sonic’s hulking form. “How do you miss that?”

Gum Drop lets out a nervous giggle as shifts in place. “Well you see, I only started looking about an hour ago. Up until a few minutes ago, you were easy to spot in a crown. However, once everything starting closing up, it became harder to find you.”

“Fair enough,” Sonic says with a solemn nod. “Now, that you’ve found me. What did you want in return for helping?”

The mare smiles brightly and pulls out an instant camera. “I’d like a picture and autograph if that’s ok.”

Sonic shrugs and returns to his full height. “Sure no problem, so do want me to kneel down and take it or do you want to…”

“Oh, whatever way feels natural to you works for me.”

“Alright,” With one swift motion the former hedgehog scoops up the mare in his arms (who lets out a little squeak in the process) and holds her at eye level. While Blaze picks up the camera and points it at the two. “Now say ‘cheese’.”

“Cheese,” They both say as the camera flashes and a picture slides out.

Blaze takes the photo and gives it a few good shakes as the image comes into focus. She then passes it off to Gun Drop; who looks it over before hoofing it to Sonic.

“Well that turned out pretty well,” The former hedgehog comments as he looks over the photo. “Now who has a pen?”

“Oh, I do!” Pinkie announces as she removes a rather ordinary looking pen from her mane. “I always keep one in case of emergencies.”

“How did you,” Sonic begins, but cuts himself off and shakes his head. “Never mind, I’m afraid to ask.” He then flips the photo over and begins to write. “To Gum Drop, a radical gal who…” The former hedgehog trails off and looks at the cream colored mare. “Radical doesn’t mean anything bad here does it?” Gum Drop shakes her head. “Alright cool…a radical gal who knows how to party and is willing to help someone in need. Your friend, Sonic.”

As the former hedgehog finishes sighing his name. Gum Drop lets out a happy squeal as she’s passed back the photo. “Oh, thank you. I’ll treasure it always.”

“Glade to hear it, now if you’ll excuse me….” The rest of Sonic’s comment it cut off as he disappears in a puff of blue smoke.

“What the buck!” The cream colored mare exclaims as the pen falls lifelessly to the ground. “What just happened?”

“Luna must have summoned him,” Twilight states with a low grown. “C’mon everypony, let’s pack it up and call it a night.”

~***~

Being part ruler of an entire nation has its benefits. You a say in what occurs within the land you call home. Be it what new laws are passed or what traditions should be continued and which ones should be stopped. Also, let’s not forget the traveling to new lands to strengthen foreign relations. While most other nations will send a dignitary in their place. The sky sisters handle most affairs personally. Be it the ‘all knowing’ Celestia or the newly re-crowned Luna. Who has of late, been handling most matters; in hopes of re familiarizing herself with what has changed since her banishment. However, in recent years, they have been accompanied by the newly crowned Princess of Love; Mi Amore Cadenza, but most just call her Cadance.

However, being in charge doesn’t mean its all fun and games. In fact, to keep everything running smoothly a lot of ‘wrinkles’ have to be ironed out, else they prove to be problematic in the future. Be it stopping a rebellion from a small detached settlement or keeping the trade routes clear between towns and cities. Every once in a great while, a pony or another creature would attempt to pilfer a local caravan in route to a major city. This however, is almost nonexistent today, do an increase in guards patrolling the roads and a series of small settlements; equipped with clusters of watch towers dotting the surrounding area.

And let’s not even start on the ever building ‘mountain’ of paperwork.

Helping rule an entire country has its rewords and challenges. The current session of “Night Court’ being the latter of the two. As the Princess of the Night is forced to keep a natural expression, while a rather snooty bleached while male unicorn noble ‘attempts’ to persuade the alicorn to grant him funding for his ‘next great’ venture…or was it to allow him to build something?

Whatever, the rather pompous stallion was trying to ‘sell’ has been lost to a rather bored princess. Who has long stopped listening and is currently trying to find a repeating pattern on the marble on a nearby wall.

“And as I’ve already stated, necessary funding is needed to ensure that…” The unicorn trails off as he notices the moon princess’s focus is elsewhere. “Uh your highness, what are your thoughts on this matter?”

Luna snaps out of her trancelike state and turns to the now annoyed noble and offers him a small smile. “We apologize, our mind was someplace else. Could you please re-elaborate the details of your proposal?”

The stallion takes a deep breath and mutters something along the line of ‘the alicorn being unworthy of the crown’ to himself and scans over a rather lengthy scroll held in his magic, before continuing, “Ahem, as I was saying do to….” A loud popping noise cuts the unicorn off as something large and ‘furry’ flying past his line of sight and crashing into a stone pillar.

Everyone is seemingly snapped awake by the sudden and abrupt arrival of the mysterious individual. Most begin shuffling around the still present cloud of dust, while others voice there concerns on who the new arrival may be.

With their spears in the ready position, several guards circle ‘disturbance’ and prepare for what possible treat it could be. What occurs next, takes everyone by surprise.

“Wahoo! That was awesome!” A deep voice shouts with in the cloud. “Let’s do it again.”

“Let’s not and say we did.” One of the guards says as he readies his spear. “Who are you and why have disrupted our princess’s night court?”

“Hold on a second,” The voice says again and a massive figure can be seen moving within the now settling cloud. “How’d I do?” Three random pony’s standing nearby each hold up a score card. One reading a perfect ten, another being 9.5, and the last one simply saying ‘call me’ in rather stylized wring as a blue female unicorn holds up the sigh with her magic and waggles her eyebrows suggestively.

“Hun not bad for a first try. I gotta work on that landing.”

“Who are you?” The guard roars as himself and the others pepair to attack.

“I doubt your weapons will have much effect on him.” A new voice says from behind the guards, prompting them to turn around to a rather amused moon princess. ”At most, you’ll just piss him off.”

As the stranger seemingly rises from the floor, an opposing figure towers over the guards and even the princess herself. Most begin to back pedal as the last of the dust clears and a rather imposing werehog stands on the other side of it.

“Yo Lunabell, what’s up?” The former hedgehog ask as he approaches the alicorn. “I usually don’t make house calls, but this time I’ll make an acceptation.”

The guards and spectators part as the moon princess closes the gap between herself and a rather confused Sonic. “We apologize, it was not our intention to summon you here at this time.”

“Then why am I here?”

Luna shakes her head. “We are not sure,” She then looks out a nearby window. “It’s still a few hours before sunrise and the amulet wasn’t designed to teleport anypony so…”

“I’m sure there is a rather riveting explanation of this,” A rather snobbish voice says in a condescending tone. “But we in the middle of a rather important matter before your arrival. So, if you could…go way. That would be great.”

Both Luna and Sonic turn to the rude stallion with mixed expression. The moon princess scowls at the intrusive unicorn, while the former hedgehog merely gives him flat look.

“You’ve got some ball, dude.” Sonic deadpans as he turns to the princess who simply nods and motions him to step aside. “That mouth of yours, is going to get you trouble one of these days.”

The unicorn scoff as the comment and flicks his over stylized mane to the side. “I would never degrade myself and stoop so low, as to take advice from a ‘commoner like you.”

Sonic opens him mouth to resort, but it cut off by an out stretched wing. Turning to its owner, the former hedgehog see a very annoyed alicorn shaking her head.

“Ahem, anyway before I was so ‘rudely’ interrupted,” The stallion begins as he snubs his nose at the werehog. “I was going to layout the thirty crucial steps of my most beneficial plan.”

Everyone present lets out an exasperated grown.

~forty-five minutes later~

“And if you remember what I mentioned in step five, step ten can be….” The unicorn continue to drone on to a rather bored alicorn and an equally annoyed group of others, all waiting for the princess to listen to hear pleas or ideas. “…what leads me to step eleven that…” The stallion trails off he notices Sonic Moon walking along the empty part of the throne room. “What in name of Faust do you think you’re doing?”

“Dancing,” The former hedgehog replies as if the answer was obvious.

“Could you stop?”

“Nope,”

“That wasn’t a request,” The unicorn snaps.

“And this is me not giving a crap.” Sonic replies as he continues to make is way back towards the thrown.

“Obviously a simpleton such as yourself, fails to grasp the importance of this deliberation and….”

The rest of the snooty stallion’s rant is cut off by a loud yawn.

“By the creature, you are boring as hell. Just hearing you talk puts me to sleep.” Sonic then turns to an amused Luna. “I don’t want to step on your toes…hooves…whatever, but do you mind if I help wrap this up? If I have to listen to this pompous wind bag any longer I’m going to lose it.”

Luna gestures to the levitating scroll. “Be our guest,”

As the former hedgehog grabs the scroll out of the unicorn’s magic, said unicorn attempts to refute the decision. But, is stopped by a cold stare from the princess.

“Let’s see here,” Sonic mutters out as he starts reading over the scroll. “Blah, blah, increase wage, yada, yada, yada. For the benefit of…” The former hedgehog looks up from the scroll and scowls at the stallion. “You honestly thing this kind of crap would fly?” However, before the stallion can answer, Sonic tears up the parchment in several pieces and tosses back at him.

“How dare you,”

“Oh I dare, little man.”

Before the noble can continue his berate, the former hedgehog approaches the unicorn and towers over him as he stand at full height. Either through his own delusions or inability to comprehend the situation prior. The once snooty unicorn now cowers at the werehog’s massive height and size. Attempting to save some face and not soil himself in the royal throne room, the stallion attempts to take a regal stance, but fails a low growl escapes the former hedgehog’s lip.

“I-I’m n-not scared of you?” The noble stutters as he tries to put on a brave face. “Y-your parlor tricks won’t work on me.”

Two massive hands slam down on left and right of the floor of the unicorn, causing he entire floor to shake and several others to almost lose their balance.

“You just don’t know when to quit, do you?” Sonic ask with a deep grown. “Get out of my sight you little worm. Before I get angry, you won’t like me when I’m angry.”

The unicorn snubs his nose at the threat and turns to the ebony alicorn. “Princess, could you kindly tell your ‘pet’ to take a step back. He’s going to ruin my suit.”

Just as those words leave the snooty nobles mouth, the ground begins to shake as moon princess spring from her seat. Lighting seems to crackle in this stance as the sound of thunder seems to resonate within the castle itself. Inciting the ones remaining to flea in fright.

“YOU DARE TO SAY SUCH SLANDER ABOUT MY KNIGHT?” Luna roars as she approaches the stallion.

“Oh now you’ve done it, you just couldn’t keep your big mouth shut.” Sonic mutters to the unicorn as he side steps, so that the princess can pass by.

“YOU ARE FOREVER BANNED FROM THIS CASTLE ALONG WITH ANY OF YOUR ROTTEN KIN.”

“B-but, but,” The stallion shudders as he attempts to plead with the princess. “I can’t be banned, what will…”

“SILENCE! YOU HAVE TO THE COUNT OF THREE TO GET OUT OF MY SIGHT, ONE, TWO…”

The stallion lets out a girlish scream and scurries out of the throne room. Leaving the room now empty; save for the moon princess and former hedgehog.

As Luna begins to calm down and regain her composure and takes a few deep breaths.

“Holy shit, that was awesome!” Sonic exclaims as he looks at the surroundings. “How’d you do that? I mean I know your powerful and all, but shouldn’t we be neck in guards about now?”

“It was all an allusion, Sir Sonic. Had we actually unleashed that kind of power, Canterlot may have fallen straight off the mountain.”

“Yeah, building this place on the side of a mountain instead of on top of it, never made much sense to me.” Sonic mutters as he scratches the back of his head. “What holding it up anyway?”

“Magic,” Luna states flatly.

“Riiiiggghhhttt, I’m calling shenanigans on that, but that’s a debate for another day. What I gotta know what set you off like that? I mean, I know the guy was a dick, but I don’t think I’ve seen you that pissed off before.”

Luna approaches the former hedgehog and places a wing on his shoulder. “He insulted a good friend of mine. One that I…” The princess trails off and gives Sonic a light kiss. “…care for very much. To do such a thing is punishable by banishment…from the castle.”

Sonic opens his mouth several times as he tries to form a response to what just happened. “I’m flattered, but what happen to not wanted to start anything?”

“Just because we wish not to pursue anything now, doesn’t mean we don’t want to later.”

The former hedgehog raises an eyebrow at the princess’s statement. “What does that even…”

Whatever was planned next, is cut off as the door to the throne room bursts open and very winded Celestia stands on the other side of it. “Am I too late to witness the transformation?”

“Nope, it’s linked to the sun. So we’re just waiting on you.”

The sun princess frowns at the snarky remark as she motions the two to follow.

“Come along now, the sun won’t raise itself.”

“Not here anyway,” Sonic mutters as he flows the alabaster alicorn

~***~

Stepping forth onto a small platform that dons a browns statue of her cutie mark. The princess of the sun takes a regal stance and addressing a rather sizable crowd that has gathered around the three; most of them still in there costumes from earlier.

Everyone falls silent as Celestia takes a familiar stance, so many have seen before. The princess takes a regal pose, lifts from the platform and into the sky, just as sun rising in the distance. Prompting the crowd to cheer and stamp there hooves. However what comes next, causes everyone to give pause.

With the start of the new day, the curse of the werehog is lifted and the ‘slayer of the evil alicorn’ starts to glow in a blinding light; followed by a massive puff of purple smoke. Clearing for everyone to see a certain blue hedgehog now standing next to the platform.

The crown goes into a frenzy as Sonic works out a few kinks in his neck and then waves to the crowd.

“Ah, it’s good to be back.”

Off near the back end of a crowd, a female regasus, a male unicorn, and a small female earth pony suddenly smile in a way not possible for a normal pony. Rows upon rows of razor sharp teeth protruding from there mouths.

"Target Acquired." The three say in unison.

Next Chapter Preview:

???: "Welcome to are fair city princess, I wish our meeting was a pleasant one."

Luna: "For we are here and were are there."

???: "Well that's something you don't see everyday."

???: KILL IT WITH FIRE!!!

Sanguis Rose

Sanguis Rose

Author's Note

A/N: Alright, this went from being a few pages to a full on chapter. So hopefully, you enjoyed a break from the usual action. I'd say more, but that pretty much covers it.

Sanguis Rose

Chapter: - 14

Sanguis Rose

In a distant land, on the fringe of Equestria’s borders. Rests a bustling city on the continents’ edge. With towers of white stone that reach to the sky and beyond. Dating back to the time the country was founded, making this one of the oldest ports, and one of the main source of the country’s imports and exports

Along a stone outlook facing the sea, sits a small detachment of royal guards of all pony types and several different races. Except unlike the ones that march along the castles hallowed halls, this particular squad has ditched there standard issue over glossed golden armor. To something a bit more practical and less eye catching.

Gone are the over stylized helmets, breastplates, and impractical hoof guards. Instead the mighty ponies of the earth, done heavy plate armor and barbute inspired helmets. That combined with their strength and speed; turned them from a force to be reckoned with, to a nyan unstoppable tank.

While the unicorns wear a lighter half plate chain mail combination alone with their ‘great helm’ helmets. That grants them easier movement, it grants them less protection. But this is compensated by heavy enchantments etched into the inside of their armor. All hidden from view by a heavily spell resistant cloak.

As the pegasus use a rather peculiar set of scale mail and bazar choice of morion themed helmets. That while not as strong as their earth bond brethren’s. It grants them protections from enemy fire and allows them to keep most of their maneuverability in flight.

And finally, while not as common as the other three. The few griffons that stand alongside the stallions and mares of the land. Wear a very hardy set of branded armor and bascinet helmets; making there already intimidating form rather nightmarish. While granting the wearer decent protection. It allows the one that dons it to have full control of both ground and flight combat; making them a force to be reckoned in any sense.

On this ancient stone platform, stands a grizzled pale blue male unicorn with a while beard. His amour weathered and dented from many the battles he’s served in; decorated with the rank of general. The stallion stands atop the platform peering off into the distance at a small cluster of ships; using with a tattered monocular spyglass.

“They seem to be holding their position. The cowards must know that they’ll be seized once they come ashore.” He sets his jaw and readjusts the spyglass with his magic. “But for how long? They must be running low of supplies at this point. And with those ships in the shape there in. They won’t be going far.”

A young pale orange female pegasus lands nearby and solutes as she draws the stallions attention.

“Sir, we have word from the crown. Said it was urgent Sir.”

The elder unicorn turns towards the mare as he lifts his monocular away with his magic.

“At ease solder, what news does are lady Celestia have for us?”

“They said they’d be handling this mater personally.” The mare replies with a nervous expression. “Something about how we should be expecting them.”

“When?” The general exclaims as he folds up the spyglass and tucks it into his armor.

Muffled chatter and shouts can be heard in the distance as the two turn towards a figure approaching in the distance.

“I’d say, right about now.”

~***~

“Princess inbound!” A tan and red male pegasus shouts as he lowers a set of binoculars. “Nine O’ clock.”

A green unicorn taps her chin as she looks towards the approaching alicorn.

“I dunno, it looks more like 11:45 to me, but…”

“Just get in formation!”

“But I thought it was only eight in the morning.” A third voice asks as female unicorn pulls out a gold pocket watch and flips it open. “Yep, right here. A few minutes past eight…so”

“SHUT UP AND…” The stallion lets out a heavy groan and face hooves. “Just take formation, ok.”

“Sir, yes sir!” Everyone shouts as they solute the pegasus.

~***~

Making her decent to the stone platform, the princess isn’t aboard the usual golden chariot she often travels in. Instead she’s clad in her royal battle armor and traveling under he own power. Landing gracefully; accompanied by two royal guards.

“Princess on deck!” A stallion shouts as everyone salutes the alicorn and her accompanying entourage.

Taking a regal stance as she lands, Celestia basks in the sun for a few moments; only to cringe slightly and flex her right wing a few times before drawing her attention to the iron and steel clad guards still saluting her.

“Are you alright, Princess?” An armored female earth pony asks as she steps towards the golden clad princess.

The alicorn turns to the approaching guard as she continues to rotate her wing. “I’m fine, but thanks for your concern.” She continues to flex her wing. “Just a minor cramp from lack of use. Nothing to worry about.”

“Well that’s no good, you should get out more and that wouldn’t happen.” The mare lets out a gaps and instantly holds an armored hoof to her mouth. “M-my apologized, Princess. I meant no disrespect.”

Celestia lets out an amused chuckle. “Relax, I didn’t take any offence to your statement.” The princess then shakes her head. “Though you are correct, I have ben shirking my daily flights.”

The mare lets out a relieved sigh and falls into formation.

“At ease my little ponies,” The alicorn says with a kind smile. “Who’s the current commanding officer here?”

“That would be me,” A gruff voice says from within the crowd as the pale blue pegasus that was keeping watch emerges; accompanied by the orange mare that informed him of the princess’s arrival.

“Ah General Storm Chaser, it is so good to see you again.”

“As it is to see you. Welcome to Soleanna, Princess. I’d give you the bit tour, but as mentioned in your letter. This visit isn’t one of leasure.”

Celestia’s expression turns more serious as she approaches the stallion.

“Any changes from your last report? Has any movement been made by either party?”

“None of either side I’m afraid.” Storm Chaser replies with a low groan. “Thanks to the Feather and Claw Treaty, we are unable to engage the target. Less they attack first; without risking an incident.”

The alicorn frowns.
“Now general, we don’t know for sure that those ships out in the bay are hostile. Perhaps they are just stranded and require assistance.”

“With all due respect Princess, if they needed help. They would have requested it by sending some of its crew ashore or asked a passing ship. Whatever there up to, I fear is not good.”

“I’d have to agree with the general on this one.” A third voice says; drawing everyone’s attention to the moon goddess. “While we understand some can be stubborn at times.” The alicorn motions to one of the ships in the harbor. “That one is missing its’ mast and looks to be taking on water.”

Celestia turns to the younger princess and frowns as she confirms her suspicions.

“Luna, what are you doing here? I thought it was agreed that you’d stay behind while this matter was addressed.”

The young alicorn grins widely, as if just pulled of an ingenious plan.

“Fear not, dear sister. For we are not actually here and still reside in Canterlot as you requested.”

“Explain,”

“Sir Sonic’s and Miss Twilight’s communication network,” The alicorn replies as if the answer is obvious. “For it allows us to project ourselves to this location, at a fraction of magic that was needed before. For we are both here and there.”

Celestia attempts to inquire further, but stops when she notices an armored clad griffon waves a claw through the alicorn’s now semitransparent form.

“The moon princess speaks the truth, she’s not really here, ma’am” The iron plated giant states as they lift the shield of their helmet; revealing a rather feminine red feathered face. “Whatever form of projection is being used is rather convincing. Maybe we can use something like that to get around that ‘treaty,’ that’s been giving use problems, ma’am.” The guard finishes using ‘claw quotes’ at the appropriate times.

Luna turns to the female griffon and smiles.

“Most interesting, you seem to have a keen eye and possible solution to our little’ problem’. What is your name solder?”

The female guard solutes.

“Sanguis Rose ma’am, Vanguard of the Golden Feather division.”

Celestia tilts her head.

“’Sanguis Rose?’ That almost sounds pony.”

“Father was a unicorn. My folks thought it would be fitting given my heritage. Ma’am”

The moon princess raises an eyebrow.

“If your father was a pony, then your mother was a…”

“A griffon ma’am.”

“You’re a Hippogriff?” Celestia exclaims in shock. “I thoughts you guys never left Griffonstone.”

“Well, I guess I’m evidence of the contrary, ma’am.”

Luna begins tapping her chin with a hoof.

“Most interesting indeed. We shall address this more at a later time. For now, let’s get to the matter at hoof.”

“Agreed,” Celestia adds with a nod. “Let’s get to the bottom of this.” The princess then turns to the surrounding guards. “Can I count on you all to protect me, if this possible threat attempts to strike me down; while in a vulnerable state?”

The guard’s solute in unison and chant.

“We shall be your shield and your protectors against any possible threat.”

~***~

A board a barely sea worthy ship, a male tan unicorn sits in the captain’s quarters. Flipping through a massive manifest jotting down notes with a rather bored expression on his face.

“Wheat, wheat, barley, more wheat…more barley. “The stallion mutters as he continues to flips through the pages of the gigantic book.

A rapid knocking at the cabin’s door, jostles the unicorn from his train of thought and towards the disturbance.

“Ai, what is it?”

“We have visitors, Sir. You might want to get out here…quick!” A booming voice announces from the other side of the door.

“Tell then to shove off,”

Muffled chatter is heard on the otherside of the door, before a set of several hard knocks rattles the door.

“Captain, I wish to speak with you immediately.” Another voice shouts on the other side of the door.

The station lets out a groan and mutters a few choice words as he caps the ink well and trots towards the door; swinging it open.

“It better be good or else…” Whatever the threat the unicorn was about to make, dies in his throat as he looks up at a rather annoyed sun princess.

“P-princess,” The stallion shudders as he’s about kneel, but stops and gives the alicorn a puzzled look. “Wait, are you doing here? Your presence is a direct violation of the F & C treaty. This could start a war if word for out that you were here. I could have you arrest for just stetting hoof on this ship.”

Celestia frowns at the statement, but says nothing and progressing things along.

“Correct, as per the agreement. I am not allowed to stet hoof on griffon territory; less invited. As are any members of the Feathered Counsel to do the same, less I say so. However,” The alicorn motions to the shore side. “I am not actually here.”

Following the direction the princess directed. The unicorn spots the sun monarch sitting in a mediation like stance; with several guards surrounding her.

The stallion waves a hoof though the barrel of the now flickering form of the Princess. “You speak the truth, but how are you able to accomplish such a feet?”

“Very carefully,

“I’ll take your word for it. So, what did you want to know?”

“Many things,” The alcorn says with a strained smile. “But first, I’d like to know your name.”

“Barnacles lass, captain of this fine vessel and commander of the ‘Sea Shepherds’.”

Celestia stiffens a laugh at the absurd list of names; causing the one now known as Barnacle to raise an eyebrow in respect.

“Find something amusing, your highness?”

The alicorn waves a hoof in front of her face as she regains her composure.

“My apologizes Captain, please continue.”

~***~

Having a keen eye and rather decent understanding of magic can get you far in life. Especially if you don’t possess any sort of magic yourself. Being able to recognize a spell and understand how it works, despite not being able to cast if yourself. Seems to be an impressive feat on it’s one. For whatever reason, those who can cast them, consider it a ‘grand-awe-inspiring ability. Which instantly gains you respect with said individual.

So being able to not only instantly recognize the moon princess’s ‘projection’ spell and even go as far as to single handedly come up with a way to bypass an issue that even the monarch of the country you serve couldn’t figure out. Deems one worthy of roles that many are not fit to hold.

Which in this case is being the sun princess’s personal guard as they project there consciousness onto one of the ships currently anchored in the harbor. That for anyone, would signify the highest form of respect and honor. However, to one certain hippogriff. It’s nothing, but a bore.

Keeping her ‘ridged’ stance alongside the Sun Monarch. Sanguis Rose, finds herself hoping that whatever form of ‘negotiations’ the princess has planned. Will end soon, so she can get back to something more interesting.

However, that train of thought is cut short, when the guard spots a particular set of armor as it marches just at the fringe of her platoon. Seemingly unnoticed by the others, since no one else seems to address the mysterious being as it weaves in and out of the shadows.

~***~

“Any idea who it was?” The princess asks in a concerned tone.

“Not a one, we did manage to hold them off. But we lost a lot of good men while doing so.” The stallion twitches in an unnatural way.

Celestia takes notices of this and raises an eyebrow.

“Are you alright, Captain?”

“Apologizes, Princess. Ai haven’t had a decent nights’ sleep since we were attacked. Been up at all hours, fearing that they’ll return to finish the job.”

The Princess narrows her eyes, at “Barnacle’s’ claim. Many things don’t add up or seem plausible, considering the current state of the ship and crew. There is something that the stallion isn’t telling her and given his current passive demeanor, can’t be good.

“I wonder how sister is fairing in this.” Celesita mutters to herself.

~***~

“It appears this was once a fine ship,” The Moon princess comments as she scans the current wreck of a vessel. That she has projected onto.

“Ai, it once was,” A blue female pagasus comments as she leads the alicorn though out the ship. “It pains me greatly to see her this way.”

Luna follows the mare through the upper decks of this ship, till they stop at a now broken off mass. “The Great Mist will sail again.” The pegasus proclaims. “It will just take some time.”

“We are sure it will, but we must ask. Why hasn’t this ship or any of this fleet requested aid from the port or any passing vessels?” The princess inquires as she steps closer to the mare. “This ship is a current state of disrepair and as you’ve already shown us, you currently lack the proper supplies to make them on your own.”

With a low grown, the pagasus snaps towards the alicorn with a frown. “You speak as if you are here, but as you demonstrated upon boarding my ship. You are not. How can you see the ‘current state’ in your current form?”

The moon monarch raises an eyebrow at the sudden outburst, but remains her calm demeanor.

“As we have stated before, this is a projection of our own conciseness. While it is true, that we can’t interact with the area use this on. We are very aware of what’s around us.” Luna frowns as she looks down at the pegasus. “What has gotten into you, Bayou? You were rather forth coming in information and seemed shall we say; excited when we requested permission to ‘board’ your ship. Now you’ve turned rather hostile when asked why you’ve haven’t sought aid from Soleanna or from any that have passed.”

Luna scowls at Bayou, prompting the mare to take several steps backwards.

“What are you hiding from me, Captain? Speak now and we promise whatever punishment befalls you. Will be lenient, compared to what may occur if you continue to withhold information.”

The mare gulps as she attempts to steady her breathing; failed completely and shutter as an icy chill runs down her spine.

“I can’t princess, I’m sorry.”

What do you mean, ‘you can’t’?” The alicorn roars as she towers over the frightened pegasus. “What has you so frightened, that you can’t tell us what is wrong?”

Bayou says nothing as she slowly turns toward the shoreside.
Luna gasps “Oh no,”

~***~

The rays of the now midday sun, shine down upon the group of solders that have sworn to protect the princess in her current state. Each keeping a watchful eye for any threat that may bring harm to the Sun Monarch. Pegasus and griffons swore though the skies, while the unicorn and the ponies of the earth patrol the area; making sure that no ‘stumbles’ onto their little squad.

Which makes the allusive visitor all the more frustrating, as they effortlessly evade the patrolling guards. Sanguis Rose, lets out an annoyed huff as the figure easily passes by a fellow solder with not so much as a intrigued expression from the one that was just passed. Have the tales the young griff were told growing up been all a lie. Were these just a bunch of incompetent fools?

No, of course not. The griff had fought alongside many of these stallions and mares, many were her friends. Which means that, whoever this ‘thing’ was. Was using some sort of ‘masking charm’ or magic to hide its presence from the others. Meaning that she was the only one who could protect the now defenseless princess from harm, so leaving her post or drawing attention to herself was not an option.
But why was Sanguis able to see it? Were all those ‘jokes’ about her having an ‘eagle eye’ not as far-fetched as it sounded? Or was it that earlier, she came in direct contact with the moon princess’s magic? Whatever the reason, will have to remain a mystery for now, as the strange armored figure suddenly disappears from the Vanguard’s sight.

“Shit!” The griff mutters under her breath as she begins frantically scanning the area for any signs of this possible threat. A glint of light shines past Sanguis’s line of sight; prompting the Vangaurd to reach for her long sword as she turns towards the source.”

“Alright you son of a…” The rest of the griff’s battle cry dies in her throat as Storm Chaser comes into view. “General, I’m...I’m sorry. I thought you were something else.”

The pegasus tilts his head.

“Is something the matter? You seem tense.”

“Yeah, there is. Something is…” Sanguis Rose trails off as something massive comes into view. Armor of a lost griffon empire; rusted by time and damaged from long use. Seemingly appears out of no ware. Wielding a highly decorated: equally conditioned battle ax; right above the General’s head.

“Lookout!” Sanguis shouts as she shoves the elder general out of the way. Just as the ax is about to make contact; striking the ground were the pegasus once stood.

Rising to his now shaky hooves, the General snaps his attention to the griff. “What is the name of Faust do you…think.” He trails off as he noticed a split earth were he once stood. “Sanguis..w-what is..”

“EVERYONE GET BEHIND ME!” The Vanguard roars as she unsheathes a massive great sword and aims it at her foe. “PROTECT THE PRINCESS AT ALL COSTS!”

The guards comply and step back, as they each draw their own weapon. While forming into a protective wall between the princess and this ‘treat.’

“It’s just you and me,” The griff smirks as she maintains her attention on the armored brute. “You gonna come quietly or we gonna have to do this the hard way?”

Letting out an ear shattering screech the figure charges forward; raising its massive battle ax in the process. Sanguis Rose grins manically at the gesture and takes off to intercept.

The griff’s great sword stops the attack mid swing. While also shattering whatever illusion that was used to hide the assassin’s presence. Evident by the massive burst of light as the two weapons clashed; along with the pungent spell of decay that fills the area.

“What the buck is that?” A stallion shouts as he holds a hoof in front of his nose.
“I think I’m going to puke!” A mare adds as she turns away and flings open her face cover on her helmet.

Sanguis Rose continues to grin manically as she begins pushing the invader back. “We have ourselves a grave robber and assassin here.”

Breaking the stance, the armored beast retreats backwards and takes a defensive possession.

“What wrong? The griff jeers as she starts closing the gap between her and the -would be- eliminator. “Not so tuff, when facing a skilled opponent?” Sanguis tilts her head. “Or do you refer your targets to be defenseless?”

The cutthroat lets out another ear shattering screech, opens its massive wings and charges forward; brandishing its massive battle ax in a similar fashion as before. Sanguis Rose raises her sword to block it, but instead is knocked back and thrown to the ground. Taking advantage of the opening the armored assassin moves in to stop the griff’s interference. However, even with the obvious might to swing a weapon such as the mighty iron ax. Its swings are slow and rather limited. Allowing the Vanguard to dodge the attack as it comes down onto her, but also leaving enough time to buck her opponent right in the breast plate; knocking them back.

“So, you’re a lot strong there you look.” Sanguis mutters as she returns to her hooves and claws While simultaneously cracking her neck. “This just got a whole lot interesting.”

Unlike before, it’s Sanguis Rose that lets out a battle cry. Unleashing ferocious roar the griff charges the iron clad attacker. Wielding her mighty great word with an armored wing. The assassin takes a ready stance and holds his massive ax in an armored claw.

Both weapons collide, but neither of them make any headway. They class once again, but still both sides are at a stale mate. Then, with one heavy swing of her sword. Sanguis is able to gain some ground as the ancient battle ax begins to crack from the griff’s assault.

“You came to the wrong neighborhood you son of a bitch!” The vanguard proclaims as she unleashes a mighty swing of her sword; shatter the rusted ax and slicing a large gash into the breastplate of the assassin’s armor.

The now weaponless brute takes a steps back, stumbling slightly as a stomach turning smell of rotting flesh fills the air. All bust ‘exploding’ from the gaping hole.

“Sweat merciful, Faust.” Sanguis begins as she holds a clawed hand to her beak. “What the pluck are you?”

Green mist begins flowing from the opened part of the armor. Filling the area in a blinding fog.

“Ok, this just got weird.” The griff mutters as she begins scanning the area with her ‘advanced sight.’ “Come out and face me, or are you…” A blood curdled scream cuts her off as the scent of fresh blood fills the air. “Shit,”

The putrid smell of death and rot overwhelms the Vanguard’s senses as she is forced to take a step back and attempt to shield herself away from the stench with one of her wings. “This is seriously plucked up, what in the name of Tartarus are you?”

A loud screech answers the griff call as what little mist lets through is obscured by a large mass. As it attempts to overtake the solder. On impulse, Sanguis, trusts her sword forward and impales whatever was about to attack her.

Startled gaps can be heard as the mist begins to dissipate and everyone bears witness to the mysterious assassin currently impaled from the young Vanguards sword. The -would be killer’ goes limp as a foul smelling liquid begins pouring from the open wound. Sanguis violently removes her sword from the fallen attacker and barley surprises the urge to emptying her stomach onto the ground.

“Well that was something,” the griff mutters as she turns to a group of shocked guards; still protecting an incapacitated princess. “Whatever that was…”

A loud screech cuts the griff off as the fallen griffon rises up and lunges itself at the inspecting guard. Sanguis Rose instinctively bucks the attacker, right in the already damaged breast plate. Her armored hooves causing a sizable dent as her attacker is send stumbling backwards.

Letting out another ear shattering scream. The assassin once more attempts to spear the young griff. However, unlike before. Sanguis Rose has her sword in claw and is able to strike down the mysterious armored individual; with one mighty swipe.

Sanguis’s long sword connects with the ancient helmet of the beast and sends the now useless piece of armor tumbling to the ground. But what’s revealed beneath causes the once mighty Vanguard to give pause.

Rotting flesh literally falling from a blackened skull. As maggots move around empty eye sockets. The young griff almost vomits at the sight the rancid smell as she stares blankly at what’s been attacking her and the others.

“N-Necromancy,”

Sickly white light returns to the empty eye sockets as the very dead griffon begins to advance onto the young griff. What bravado the Vanguard have once possessed is now replaced by utter fear. Sanguis Rose stands frozen as stone while a creature that shouldn’t exist approaches her. While a calm Sanguis would take another swing at the unfortunate abomination. But a frightened Sanguis can only slowly back up at the monster closes the distance.

This continues till, the griff bumps into something hard and made of steel. Risking a glance Sanguis Rose turns towards the still form of the Sun Princess. Risking another glance, the Vanguard notices that most of the unit has fled; save for Storm Chaser and a handful of others. Meaning that she’s all that stands in-between this abomination and the princess.

With a deep breath, the young griff steadies her resolve and turns towards the rapidly advancing treat. Despite its limps being shattered from the fight. The creature still lumbers towards Sanguis. Taking in another calming breath the Vanguard steadies her sword, just as the breast is on top of her.

With one swift motion the abomination is sliced in two. Severing the front have from the bottom –since the monster was on its hind legs’ when attacking-. Splattering what was once internal organs onto Sanguis Rose, the remaining guards, and even the princess herself.

Celestia’s eyes snap open as she’s caked in the foul smelling liquid. The alicron turns towards the young griff and opens her mouth to ask what happened, but is cut off by a gurgled moan. Drawing her attention to the source as the top half of was once a griffon is seen crawling towards her.

“KILL IT!” Sanguis Rose roars as she begins stabbing at the beast with her sword. “KILL IT WITH FIRE!!!”

The alcorn launches a folly of blinding light from her horn; incinerating the abomination on contact; reducing the once fearsome foe to a pile of ash.

With a sigh of relief, Sanguis Rose collapses onto her haunches and slowly turns toward the princess. “Welcome back your majesty,” The griff nervously chuckles. “Sorry about the mess, but I didn’t have much of a choice, ma’am.”

With a long look, the alicorn takes a long look at once was a massive stone perch. Now reduced to nothing more than crumbled stone. Her attention is next drawn to the now smoldering remains of ancient griffon armor, and then finally to the young griff; still covered in the foul smelling liquid. Standing calming as others shake in her armored hooves

“Did you do all this?” Sanguis Rose nods, maintaining a calm demeanor. “Then you have my thanks.”

“All in a day’s work, ma’am.” The griff responds stiffly. “I’m sure anyone else would have done the same.”

Celstia turns to rather sparse group of solders standing before her. “I beg to differ, young one. How would you like to work for me, personally?”

“I’d…”

The rest of Sanguis’s response is cut off as the moon princess suddenly appears in a blast of bright light.

“Sister, we came as fast as we could. It’s a…trap?” Luna trails off as she slowly glances at was once a lush field and then turns to the elder alicorn. “What’d we miss?”

“Quite a bit I’m afraid, I’ll fill you in on the details later. But first,” Celestia’s horn flashes with a massive burst of light as several severely damaged ships suddenly appear in the Soleanna bay. “Cease then!” The princess commands as the guards descend onto the waiting ships.

As Sanguis Rose attempts to join the others. She’s stopped by a massive white wing. “I never received you answer.”

The young griff goes ridged and solutes the alicorn. “I would be honored ma’am” The stance then relaxes slightly. “As long as I’m not just standing around.”

“Of course, I would never think of asking such a thing.” The princess says with a kind smile, which then instantly shifts to a scowl. “But for now, I have a few questions to for Captain Barnicle.”

Sanguis shivers at the princess’s cold tone. “They don’t pay me enough for this shit.”

Next Chapter Preview:

Rainbow Dash: "Think you can keep up?"

Blaze: "I think the bigger questions is; can you keep up with me?"

Rarity: "Marvelous, simply marvelous."

Sonic: "Run, run, run, as fast as you can. You can't catch me, I'm Sonic the F***in' Hedgehog."

Getaway

Gotta getaway

As the sun begins to peak over the horizon, its warm bright rays sweep over the sleepy little town; signaling the start of a new day. While citizens’ rise from their beds and start their daily routine. A certain fashionestia slumbers peacefully under the confines of a thick blanket. With heavy drapes drawn and a sleeping mask covering her eyes. The designer remains oblivious to the coming of the new day. That is until a particular smell reaches her nose.

The mare smacks her lips as the pleasant aroma is picked up by her senses as she begins to wake. While a dormant thought enters the unicorn’s clouded mine on who would be able to create such a pleasing smell. Who?....Who? Realization snaps the fashionestia out of her slumber and clears away any lingering memories of the now fleeting dream.

With now building dread on who may be responsible for this, Rarity tears her sleeping mask off as she springs out of bed, dashes out of her room, and down the hallway towards the lower levels.

~***~

As the now frightened unicorn reaches the foot of first set of stairs, two muffled voices can be heard as she now cautiously makes her way down the second set.

“C’mon, one more time, please.” A small voice pleads that Rarity instantly recognizes as Sweetie Belle. “I promise I won’t ask again after this.”

“Ok Sweets, this is the last time. I’m running out of hay bacon here.” Another voice says that the mare recognizes as her current blue spikey roommate. The second voice clears his throat as the sound of something sizzling on a skillet can be heard.

“♫Hay Bacon Pancakes
Making Hay Bacon Pancakes♫” Sonic begins as he drops a few pieces hay bacon into the iron skillet.

“♪Take some hay bacon and I'll put it in a pancake
Hay Bacon Pancakes that’s what it’s gonna make. ♪” Sweetie Belle continues with a cheerful voice.

“♫♪ Hay Bacon Pancakes. ♪♫” The two voice sing in unison, before both bursting out laughing.

Rarity enters the kitchen and giggles as she notices both Sonic and Sweetie Belle standing in front of the stove. (The small filly on top of a stool respectively.) Each with their backs turned to the new arrival; unware of her presence.

“You’re a pretty good singer, Sweets.” Sonic comments as he removes the now fully cooked hay bacon from the pan and on to a plate.

The small unicorn blushes and looks away. “Thanks, but I’m really not all that great.”

Sonic turns off the stove, grabs a now full plate of hay bacon, and another one stacked high with pancakes off the counter. “You shouldn’t sell yourself short, kid. You’re a natural.”

Sweetie Belle perks up as she hops of the stool and trots next to the blue hedgehog. “You really think so?”

“I wouldn’t say it, if it weren’t true.” Sonic begins as he looks down at the small filly. “Now why don’t you go wake up your sister and tell her breakfast is ready. While I get things set up here.”

The young filly gives the blue hedgehog a salute. “Yes sir, I’ll get right on it. Sir.”

Sonic chuckles at young mare’s antics and readjusts the plats in his hands. “At ease soldier, just go get your sister.”

Sweetie Belle nods and turns around to retrieve the mare in question, but stops as she notices her elder sister standing in the doorway of the kitchen.

“Mission accomplished, sir.”

“What? But you just…” Sonic begins as he turns around spots a certain alabaster unicorn staring back at him with an amused expression. “Well how about that. Speak of the devil and they shall appear.”

Rarity tilts her head. “What?”

Sonic waves his hand to dismiss the comment. “Never mind, so are you just going to keep standing there or are you going to sit down and have some breakfast?”

The mare perks up at the question, begins making her way towards the table, but then stops. “Would you feel offended, if I freshen up a bit first?”

“No at all,” The blue hedgehog comments as he sets the two plates down on the table and makes his way towards one of the cupboards. “Just don’t take too long, Sweets been drooling over those pancakes since I made then,”

“I have not!” The young filly shouts in annoyance.

“Whatever you say, Sweetie Belle.”

“Right, well I shall be back shortly,” The alabaster mare begins as she exits the room, but then stops. “Are you sure you don’t need any help?”

“I got this, you go do your thing.” Sonic waves dismissively as he removes several plates from the cupboard.

“I wanna help too,” Sweetie Belle proclaims with a little hop.

“Alright, why don’t you get a few things from the fridge?”

The young mare dramatically salutes begins making her way towards the fridge.

Glancing at the filly as she always crashing head on with the fridge, the blue hedgehog shakes his head and lets out an amused chuckle. “Kids,”

~***~

Having thoroughly freshened herself up and more presentable. The fashionesta returns to the kitchen, just as her younger sister and Sonic seem to reaching the tail end of a conversation.

“You really think it’s worth a shot? The young filly begins in a nervous tone. “I mean you don’t think it’s too dangerous?”

“As long as you take every precaution beforehand, you should be fine.” The blue hedgehog replies with smirk. “Though, I still don’t understand why you think ‘that’ is ‘special talent’.”

“Well not mine, but Scoots or Applebloom…maybe.”

“I hope I’m not interrupting anything,” Rarity begins as she takes a seat at the table.

“Not at all, we were just talking about what Sweets and her friends have planned to her there ‘marks’.”

“Yeah and that what we have planned might work,” Sweetie Belle adds as she grins triumphantly.

“I said it wasn’t a bad idea to try,” Sonic corrects. “However, if it grants any of you three those butt tattoos you seem to eager get. Remains to be seen.”

Sweetie Belle huffs and looks away.

“Anyway,” Rarity begins as she steers the conversation else ware. “How long have you been up, Sonic?”

The hedgehog shrugs as he rises from his seat and returns with a cast-iron pan of eggs. “I dunno, a couple hours I guess. Got up early and went over to Twilight’s for a bit and then came back here. Just as Sweets was walking in and figured I’d make everyone breakfast. Eggs?”

“Yes please,” Rarity says with a nod. “But if you don’t mind me asking. What did you need to do over at Twilight’s?”

“Well you see…”

~Flashback~

In the deepest parts of the Golden Oaks Library. Massive machines of ‘science’ lye. That measure and scale various types of energies and powers. One particular mare is able to use these devices and understand the almost foreign language they each display. By either massive lengths of mysterious text or numbers, this protégé of the sun monarch is able to deceiver this mysterious code and read what secrets it has to tell.

“So how’s everything looking on your end, Twi?” A certain blue hedgehog inquires as he stares at a rather large electrode attached to his forehead. “I’m not really liking this.”

“The results are still coming in.” Twilight comments as she continues to look at a readout of numbers scroll across a screen.

“I’m digging this whole ‘mad scientist’ thing you have going here.” Sonic begins as he looks at the various machines and contraptions. “But the moment you shout ‘it’s alive’ and I see lightning, I’m out of here.”

“Oh, stop being a foal.” Twilight chastises as she retrieves a print out from another machine nearby. “Besides, I thought you liked this sort of thing.”

“I said it was kind of cool,” Sonic corrects. “I’m just not liking being hooked up like some sort of science project.”

“We’re almost done,” The mare mutters as she glances at another printout. “Ah-ha!

“What? What did you find?”

“Well, if I’m reading this correct. The magic you absorbed during Nightmare Night, has completely left your system.”

“That’s good right? I mean I no longer have to worry about going ‘scary’ during the night, right?”

The mare nods as she places the printout onto a small pile of others. “Also, I figured something else out.”

What’s that?” Sonic inquires as he removes the various measuring instruments from his body.

“That you’re cute when you’re nervous.” Twilight says with a smirk.

“And you’re adorable when flustered.” The blue hedgehog fires back without missing a beat. “If you ponies ever find a way to weaponize curtness, I’m doomed.” He adds with a mock grim tone.

Twilight blushes and looks away. “W-well a-way way, I was thinking.”

“Strange, I don’t see any smoke coming out of your ears.” Sonic says with a smirk.

The mare frowns at the hedgehog for a moments, before continuing. “As I was saying, Sonic. How’s your Friday looking? I got reservations at that new restaurant I mentioned a while back.”

“Sorry, Friday is no good for me. I already made plans with the others.”

Twilight stares at Sonic with a slack jawed expression and then turns away. “B-but said your weekend was wide open. Then you go and just make plans without telling me.” The groans. “Unbelievable, now I have to reschedule and…how can you be so inconsiderate and…and…”

“Twi…”

“…selfish. I was looking forward to this all week and now…”

“HEY TWILIGHT!”

The mare snaps towards the hedgehog, with a mixture of anger and sadness. “What!”

“I was kidding, Twilight. Relax ok, yeash” The hedgehog frowns. “Do you honestly think I would pull something like that?”

Twilight deflates and looks way. “No, of course not. You just seemed so sure, that…I sort of believed you.”

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle as he removes the last of the strange energy reading devices and strikes a dramatic pose as he hops off the chair. “You wound me, Twilight. To think I’d actually be so heartless.”

The mare rolls her eyes. “Over dramatic much.”

“Sorry, just trying to lighten the mood.”

“Anyway, as I was saying. I made reservations for eight, so we probably should meet at around 6:30-7 o’ clock. Any questions?”

“Nope, I’m good.”

Twilight raises an eyebrow at the hedgehog’s response. “Seriously, no questions at all?”

“Nope,”

“No questions on where we’re going or what sort of attire you’d need to wear?”

“Nope,”

“Nothing on what the restaurant serves or what to expect?”

“No, I think I got it,”

The mare frowns at the blue hedgehog’s uncaring demeanor and begins sauntering towards him. “Are you being facetious?”

“I have no idea what the word means, but I don’t think this is it.” Sonic states as he begins examining one of the electrodes from the machine.

“Then why aren’t you not taking this seriously?”

“Because it doesn’t matter,”

Twilight recoils in shock. “What do you mean ‘it doesn’t matter’? You have no idea how much this means to me and…and”

“Because, if it’s with someone you enjoy spending time with. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing.” Sonic replies as if the answer was obvious.

The mare relaxes her expression and tilts her head in confusion. “I don’t follow.”

“Well you see,” The blue hedgehog begins as he makes his way towards the confused unicorn. “It doesn’t have be some ritzy dinner or some ritzy club. It can be just hanging out in the park or maybe in around town. As long as it’s someone you like being around, it doesn’t matter.”

Twilight blushes and bits her lower lip. “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying that you don’t need to go someplace fancy or spend a lot of money to have a good time. That you can have just as fun where you’re at. And that your fun to hang out with, whether it’s just being their while you do whatever test you want to run or just helping you do some mundane task. It’s never a dull moment when you’re around.”

The mare giggles and looks to the side. “I could say the same about you,”

“Maybe, but my point still stands.”

“What about the others, do you enjoy begin around them?”

“Of course, everyone brings something to the party when there around. But I’m not hanging around the others right now. I’m here with you.”

Twilight begins pawing at the floor. “So, you really think I’m going overboard with this?”

“No more than usual,” Sonic comments, graining a frown from the mare. “But if you want my opinion, I’d suggest just letting it happen…go with the flow. See how to turns out. Or however you want to put it.”

The mare perks up at the suggestion. “Alright, I can do that.”

“Cool, so what sort of thing do you have planned?”

“Just dinner and a show at a restaurant a few towns over.”

“Alright, what sort of attire should I wear?”

“Casual, I guess. Though maybe it wouldn’t hurt to dress up a bit.”

“And what are they serving?”

“It’s an omnivorous menu, so I think they serve meat there. But I’m not entirely sure.” Realization dons on the mare, prompting her to let out an annoyed groan and glare at the hedgehog. “Wait a minute, you said these things didn’t matter last time I asked. If so, why are you asking now?”

“Because I wanted to get my point across,” Sonic replies matter-o-factly.

“And that is?” Twilight asks with a raised eyebrow.

“To not sweat the small stuff…and not to think you need to go out of your way to impress someone.”

Twilight frowns and then taps her chin with a hoof. “Good point, but you could have just told me and we could have avoided this whole misunderstanding.”

One of the machines nearby suddenly starts making a rattling noise; drawing everyone’s attention to it for a moment.

“Does it always do that?” Sonic asks in a concerned tone as he gestures to the object in question with his thumb.

The mare nods. “Only when somepony is pulling my leg.”

Sonic rolls his eyes and lets out a sarcastic laugh. “Oh very funny,” The hedgehog trails off as he turns his attention back towards the lavender mare. “Anyway, I gotta jet. I have a few things to take care of today. We’ll hang out later ok?”

Twilight nods and uses to magic to gather a few assorted items that have been scatter onto the floor; while also powering down a few of the machine. “Alright, I’ll see you then.”

The bleu hedgehog nods and begins making his way towards the stairs, but then suddenly stops. “You need any help, Twilight.”

“No, I got it.” The mare confirms as she levitates several large coils of wire into a wood box. “Besides, I still have to recalibrate a few of these before I leave.”

“Alright then, just checking.” Sonic mutters out as he starts making his way up the stairs.

Twilight continues to tidy up, till a small box on a nearby table catches her attention. “Hey Sonic wait!”

Frantic footsteps can be heard at a certain blue hedgehog makes his way back down the stairs and makes his way toward the lavender mare. “What’s up?”

“I forgot to give you something,” Twilight states as she levitates the small box towards Sonic.

The blue hedgehog grabs the item and begins to examine it. “What is it?”

“I overhead Blaze mention that you two had something planned at the quarry outside of town this morning and figured you’d something to protect yourself.”

Sonic opens the small box and examines the object inside for a moment before closing it. “Leave it to Blaze to spill the beans. She’s taking this way too seriously.” The hedgehog glances up at the mare. “Though, I don’t think I’ll be needing this. It’s not going to be anything serious.”

“I know but…” The unicorn trails off as she looks down at the floor.

The blue hedgehog smirks at the mare’s action and tucks the small box away for safe keeping. “Were you worried about me?” Twilight nods, but still remains focus on the floor. “That is so adorable.”

“Hey, I’m being serious here!” The mare snaps as she looks back up at the blue hedgehog. “You seem to be a magnet for anything…”

Sonic cuts the mare of midsentence as he taps the tips of her nose with his hand. “Boop.”

“Hey!” Twilight shouts as she scrunches her muzzle and give the hedgehog a dirty look. “Can’t you at least one thing seriously?”

“Relax Twilight, I got this.” The blue hedgehog begins as he places a hand on the mare’s shoulder. “But thanks for your concern.”

The mare blushes, looks away, and says nothing.

~flashback end~

“Twilight ran a few tests and figured whatever was causing me to go all ‘tall dark and scary’ wasn’t going to happen anymore.” Sonic finishes as he grabs a small container of syrup from a nearby cupboard and sets it on the table.

“So, does that mean you’ll be leaving after today?” Rarity asks in a worried tone.

“Pretty much, the blue hedgehog replies in a passive tone. “As thankful as I am that you let me crash here, till we know if I’m going to change again. That couch was murder on my back.” Sonic emphasizes his point by cracking his neck and then rubbing a spot on his shoulder.

Rarity silently gaze at her plate as she process the information.

“You changed? How?” Sweetie Belle asks as she looks up at the hedgehog in amazement.

“Well, Lunabelle and I came up with a…”

“Who?” Sweetie Belle Interrupts.

“The princess of the night,”

“Oh,” The filly replies in an oddly relaxed tone; only to spring by tenfold as she process who hedgehog meant. “Wait you mean, Princess Luna?”

“Yep,”

“Cool,”

“Anyway,” Sonic continues. “The princess and I came up with a plan to entertain the crowd for a show she set up in place a couple of no shows. Long story short, I got a huge does of her freaky magic and…”

“The princess’s magic is not ‘freaky’” Rarity interrupts. “It’s fluid and whimsical.”

“Whimsical, really?” Sonic asks with an amused chuckle.

“That right,”

“Anyway,” The blue hedgehog continues, trying to get back on track. “I got a dose of her magic and got all big, mean, and…stretchy.”

“Cool,” Sweetie Belle proclaims with barley contained excitement. “Then what happened?”

“I won,” Sonic replies in a nonchalant way.

“And I missed it,” The young filly pouts. “I never get to see anything cool.”

“Well if makes you feel any better, there must have been about a dozen cameras recording the event. So, they’ll probably make a movie out of it, if the princess and I give the go ahead.”

“Really? Cool!” Sweetie Belle shouts in excitement. “I can’t wait.”

Rarity lets out a small sigh as she watches her sister gushing over the hedgehog’s tail. “I just can’t believe that it’s already been three days since then.”

“Don’t you mean finally?” Sonic asks in mock annoyance. “Wasn’t it you that stated ‘this ruffian will be the death of me’?”

“Well I only said that because you pulled my tail.” Rarity states in annoyance. “To something so..so unclothe is just...”

“That’s only because you bit me and wouldn’t stop till I snap you out of it!” Sonic fires back. “Or did you forget about that?”

“I’m so confused, what are you talking about?” Sweetie Belle asks as she looks up from her breakfast.

“Short answer, you sister likes to cuddle things in her sleep.” Sonic states before holding up a finder emphasize his next comment. “However, she also likes to kick and bite as well.”

“And how did you come to gain this information.” The filly asks as she narrows her eyes in a suspicious tone.

“During Sonic’s stay here, it came to my attention that his ‘unique’ proportions made it a bit troublesome to find an adequate place to rest.” Rarity says in a hoity tone. “So against my better judgment, I offered to share my bed with Sonic….and nothing else.”

Sonic frowns as the comment and crosses his arms. “Now hold on, we both agreed it was fine the first night, but only got bad after the second. When you tried to pull an all-nighter and I had to literally drag you off to get some sleep. So don’t get all ‘dramatic’ on my for something that can be chopped up as just being a bad call on both our parts.”

Rarity lets out a sigh and looks down at her plate. “You’re right, I’m…I’m sorry,”

“No problem, had I know it was a touchy subject. I wouldn’t have joked about it.” The hedgehog then smirks. “I’m a little surprised honestly. I figured someone would have told you get a bit restless when nearing a deadline.”

“I wouldn’t know, you’re the first stallion I’ve shared a bed with.” Rarity admits in a sad tone.”

“Oh,” Sonic eyes then widen in realization. “Oh….shit. Now I feel like an ass….i’m the one who should be sorry.”

“It’s alright, you didn’t know.”

“Still, I think I’m going to head out before I stick my other foot in my mouth. I’ll see you later”

Rarity opens her mouth to say something, but says nothing as the hedgehog silently exits the boutique; so as to not create anymore conflict.

Sweetie Belle meanwhile glares at her younger sister, but remains silent as she contentious to eat her breakfast.

~***~

Exiting the boutique, Sonic spots a certain high flying speedster sitting on a nearby bench; giving him the biggest shit eating grin possible.

“Sup, big guy? You ready to lose?” The mare comments only shift to a smirk as the blue hedgehog remains quiet and starts walking towards her.

“You alright there bud? You seem to be distracted about something.”

Sonic waves off the notion and plops down next to the mare. “Na, just had a bit of an odd morning. Just found out that I was really wrong about someone.”

Rainbow Dash’s eyes widen. “Really? Anything good? Please tell me it’s something good.” The mare pleads. “You have no idea how boring it has been lately.”

“I can image, I haven’t been around to brighten up your usually abysmal day, Dashie.” The blue hedgehog jabs as he springs to his feet. “And to answer your question, no. It’s not some ‘juicy bit of gossip’ that everyone should know.”

The mare recoils in response. “Yeash, you’ve been hanging out with Rares too long, you’re even starting to talk like her.” Dash then leaps off the bench and lands next to the blue hedgehog. “Anyway, I have the perfect solution to get you out of that odd funk you seem to be in.”

“And what’s that.”

“You and me, first one to While Tail Woods and back.” The mare challenges with a dramatic flair of her wings. “Winner take all.”

The blue hedgehog solemn expression shifts into a cockle smirk. “You know me all too well, Skittles. Just say when.”

“Ok, on the count of….Now!” Rainbow Dash shouts as she flies on ahead. “Catch me if you can, slowpoke.”

“Oh, I’ll make you eat those words,” Sonic begins as he begins forming his figure eight technique. “And my dust!” The hedgehog adds as he takes off; kicking up a cloud of dust followed by a defining boom.

~***~

With the once sleepy rural town in full swing. Two certain crusaders make their way towards the ‘famed’ Carousel Boutique to pick up there last member.

C’mon Applebloom, we’re running late. Scootaloo shouts as she gallops down the street. “You just had to make that stop and Sugar cube Corner.”

An annoyed yellow filly lets out a grown, followed by long yawn as she chaises after the young speedster. “Well excuse me, yer the one who didn’t wake any of up for breakfast.”

“Are you saying this is my fault?” Scootaloo shouts back as she zips past a group of mares.

“Ya had one job, Scoots. One job.” Applebloom fires back as she closes the gap between herself and the orange filly.

Scootaloo skids to a stop, just outside of the Boutique and turns to the approaching yellow filly. “Excuse me, what did you say?”

“You heard me,”

“You got something to say, Bloom?”

“Yeah I do. You….” The rest of the farm pony’s rant is cut off as something obscures her vision. “…Need to look out!” The mare shouts as she shoves the young pegasus out of way of an approaching mob.

~***~

“Damn early morning shoppers,” Dash mutters out as she flies over massive crowd heading into the town market. “You’d think it was the last day of the planet or something.”

“Or a blue light special,” Sonic adds as he leaps over a small section of the crowd and meets up with the mare.

“A what?”

“Never mind, I keep forgetting some jokes don’t translate here that well.”

“Or anywhere else for that matter.” A third voice says, prompting the two to look towards the source.

“Blaze? What are you doing here?” Rainbow Dash asks with a raised eyebrow. “Didn’t take for much of early morning runner.”

“Glad to see you finally took me up on that offer.”

“As am I,” The Sol ruler comments as she keeps pace with the two blue speedsters. “And to answer your question, Ms. Dash. I’m not usually one to partake in such activities this early in the morning. But Sonic was rather persistent on the matter. So I figured I’d give it a try.”

“So…what do you think?” The blue hedgehog inquires as he turns to the lilac refine. “Pretty cool or what?”

“I do admit, it is a lot more, shall we say more; invigorating then I imagined.”

“That’s only if you can keep up.” Dash jabs as she shoots the Sol Ruler a cocky smirk. “Think you can keep up with us till we reach the woods?”

“I believe the bigger question is; will you be able to keep up with me?” Blaze retorts as she begins to pull a head.

“You guys are all just talk.” Sonic comments as he runs ahead of both of them. “Run, run, run, as fast as you can. You can't catch me, I'm Sonic the F***in' Hedgehog."

Next Chapter Preview:

CMC: "Cutie mark - Explorers!"

Rainbow Dash: "Wahoo! Piece of cake."

Sonic: "Well, this just got a whole lot more interesting."

Blaze: "Choose your works carefully, for they may be your last."

Light my Fire

Light My Fire

As the warmth of the morning sun basks the land in its golden rays. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo (after having recovered from being almost trampled by the frantic ponies.) Make their ways towards the Carousel Boutique; to pick the last member of the CMC and then head off to school.

“I wonder what that was all about.” A certain orange filly inquires as she trots alongside her earth pony friend. “I mean what’s so special about the market this time of day? Is there some ‘super awesome sale’ going on?”

“Ya got me,” Apple Bloom adds as she matches the young pegasu’s pace. “Sis didn’t mention anythin’ to me this morning about somethin’ going on in town today.

“Hey, maybe there giving out free cider or something!” Scootaloo jests with an amused chuckle.

The yellow filly lets out an amused snort. “Yeah right, like that will ever happin’. We barely make it in time for cider season as it is.” Applebloom then stops and begins pondering something as she taps her chin with a hoof. “Then again, thanks to Sonic. We might make enough for the whole town this time around.”

“That’d be awesome! I didn’t get any last year.” Scootaloo pouts, but then perks up as she realizes something. “Speaking of which, how is that whole ‘paring Sonic with your sister going’?”

“Not good ah’m afraid.” The young filly pouts. “AJ keeps insisting that there just friends and that she doesn’t see him that way.”

“Or maybe she knows that someone way more awesome, totally cooler, and just all out a superior pony than her that…”

“Yer talkin’ about Rainbow Dash aren’t ya?” Apple Bloom deadpans.

“No…well yeah, I guess I am.”

“Figures,”

“Hey, don’t be mad that your sister doesn’t stand a chance against someone as awesome as Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo says smugly. “Besides, who was it that we saw take off with who this morning on our way here?”

“That proves nothing, Scoots!” The yellow earth pony retorts. “That could be anything.” Apple Bloom then smirks. “Ya do know that they do race each other every morning right?”

“Of course I do,” Scootaloo says nervously as she looks around. “I’m Dash’s biggest fan. How could I not know that?”

~***~

In the outskirts of the now bustling little down all is peaceful and calm. The bird are chirp merrily, while a gentle breeze sweeps across the tall grass; causing it to sway to and fro. Woodland critters congregate with one another as others go about their daily routines. While other wildlife is out and about, foraging or just enjoying the peaceful day or the warmth of the sun. Several ponies seem to be milling about as well, taking a short rest from their travels with their various wares, delivering various parcels, or just sitting back and relaxing on this tranquil day.

All that comes to an abrupt and sudden end as an ear shattering boom echoes in the distance as the sound barrier is broken, following by blue blur, and a massive gust of wind that sends everyone and everything in the general vicinity flying backwards. The unfortunate ones caught off guard shriek as there send flying in to the air. While others hit the dirt and wait out the gust of wind to subside as they have so many times before.

As everything quiets down, the various creatures and ponies attempt to collect themselves and return to a somewhat (shaky) standing / sitting stable position. While ‘trying’ to return to whatever it was that they were doing before the abrupt interruption. However, this however proves to be futile as another blast of wind cuts through the landscape, led by a lilac flash of color, and sends whoever had managed to stand tumbling backwards.

“Are ya DONE?!” A gruff looking male unicorn shouts as he starts to emerge from under his over turned cart. “Because I'm coming out, and I swear to Faust, IF SOMEPONY DOES THAT AGAIN, I will be so freaking nettled!”

A third explosion echoes in the distance as a burst off colors flashes by for a split second, followed by another blast of wind; sending everything into further disarray.

“AW, DAMN IT!”

~***~

Continuing there debate on ‘who’s sister (or sister figure) is better suited’ for the blue speedster. The two fillies are so in trawled in their conversation that they fail to notice there distance to the Boutique. Till the front doors bursts open and yelling can be heard inside as the last member of the CMC emerges.

“Sweetie Belle, you come back here this instant!” Rarity shrieks as she trots to the now opened door. “I’m not done talking to you!”

“Yeah sure whatever,” The young filly replies with a dismissive wave. “You just want to keep going on about on about ‘how a lady treats an important guest’.” She adds in a mocking tone. “I’ve got school. I’ll see you later…maybe.”

“Come back here this instant or Faust help me, I’ll…”

“YOU’LL DO WHAT!” Sweetie Belle fires back. “Yell at me some more, while you try to convince yourself that you did the right thing. Pfft! Yeah, no thanks.”

Rarity stands at the edge of the doorway in shock as she attempts to form a response. When that methods fails, the mare lets out a huff, and slams the door.

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo watch in silence as there friend trots towards them muttering something intangible under her breath. Both fillies book at each other, while each motioning the one another to approach the ‘obviously’ touchy subject. After a few ‘you owe me’ gestures from the young earth pony. The orange pegasus lets out a silent sigh and mouths ‘fine’ as she turns to her fast approaching friend.

“So what was that all about?” Scootaloo inquires with an uneasy tone. “You two seemed to going on about something and…”

“Can you believe her?” Sweetie Belle Snaps, as she cuts the pegasus off and lets out a irritated groan. “I mean seriously. How can somepony be that stupid?”

“Well, if ya kindly explain why ya felt the need to get in a shouting match with yer sis. Then we’d be able to deter if, as ya put it so bluntly; ‘be so stupid’.”

The young unicorn give the farm filly a long stare as if trying to incinerate the mare with her mind. Apple Bloom takes a few attentive steps back in response.

“Just spit it out Sweetie Belle,” Scootaloo interrupts as she attempts to defuse the situation. “What did your sister do, that was so bad? That you two got in a shouting match about it? Because you seriously have to calm the buck down!”

Sweetie Belle takes a deep breath in an attempt to collect herself. “Ok, it all started when…”

~***~

“Did anyone just hear that?” A certain hedgehog inquires as he slows his pace, so that the others are able to catch up.

“Can’t say I did,” Blaze replies as she matches Sonic’s pace. “What did it sound like?”

“Yelling, a whole lot of yelling,”

“That’s strange, I didn’t hear a thing.”

Sonic shrugs and begins to speed up. “Hh, maybe I just imagined it or…”

A new voice cuts the hedgehog off as a certain cyan mare appears in the distance.

“This is ridiculous!” Dash shouts to no one particular. “How are they both so fast?”

“Simple Skittles,” The blue hedgehog begins with a half grin as he starts pulling away. “You’re too slow!”

“You need to work on your taunts, Sonic.” Blaze comments with a snug look. “I didn’t know better I’d say you’re running out of cleaver quips. Doomed to repeat the same handful of comments that you think of edgy and deep.”

“I think I just threw up a little in my mouth, after you said that.” Sonic deadpans as he continues to pull ahead.

“Eww, gross!” Rainbow Dash shouts in the distance. “That is so messed up, Blaze.”

“Hey, I didn’t say it!” The feline retorts as she looks back at the cyan mare.

“Yeah, but you’re the cause of it!” Sonic shouts as he continues to distance himself from Sol Ruler.

Blaze lets out a low growl as she slows down; which allows Rainbow Dash to pass by her. The lilac cat blinks at the passing mare and then begins to speed up to match her pace.

“Miss Dash, a word please.”

“Yeah sure, what’s up?” The cyan pegasus asks as she continues her futile attempt of catching up with Sonic. “If you’re going to ask me to slow down, you have another thing coming sister.”

“Not quite, but if you’ll come closer.”

Dash complies and tilts her head towards the bermise cat. As she whispers something into her ear.

“Oh, I like that. What did you have in mine?” The pegasus asks with a new found excitement.

“Simple, please give me your hand…paw..hoof…whatever.” Rainbow Dash silently nods and holds out her front right hoof towards the feline; who instantly grabs on to it. “Good, now hang on.”

“Hang on to wha-aaah!!!”

The rest of the mare’s sentence is cut off as she’s yanked forward by the determined cat.

~***~

“So let me get this straight,” Apple Bloom begins in a hesitant tone. “Yer mad because Sonic stayed at yer sis house and nothing happened? No offence Sweetie Belle, but that’s just…now what’s the word I’m looking fer?”

“Stupid!” Scootaloo chimes is as she trots alongside the two. “Because that’s what I was thinking.”

“Ah was going ta say ‘ridiculous’, but ah suppose that a good answer too.”

“HEY!” The alabaster filly shouts. “I’m not stupid.”

“Ah never said ya were, just what yer mad about is rather ‘stupid’ that’s all.”

“Yeah, you can just put two ponies is a room and expect them to just fall for each other.” Scootaloo states as she nervously scratches one of her forelegs with another one. “We tried that before, remember?”

“Yeah, but if any if you heard how much she talks about him!” Sweetie Belle shouts with an angry stomp. “You’d understand why I’m so upset about this and…”

“Excuse me, I don’t mean to eves drop on your uh, conversation, but…” A soothing female voice begins; prompting the three crusaders to turn towards a cream colored unicorn with a white mane and tail. “Your friends are right. That’s not how a mare’s heart works.”

“And how would you know!” Sweetie Belle spits as she narrows her eyes.

“Simple child, you cannot force a two individuals to be together. There has to be a connection, merely putting them in the same dwelling will not instantly make them a couple.”

The young union opens her mouth to make comment, but is cut off by the mare’s hoof. “Let me finish, I’m sure your sister holds this individual you speak of, rather highly. So, maybe that’s why she didn’t just as you so elegantly put it; ‘try something.’ Maybe she would rather seek them out on her own terms and not just the first convenient opportunity that presents itself. An act that can be perceived is a very negative way.”

“That’s…That’s actually a really good point.” Sweetie Belle comments as she taps her chin with a hoof. “Maybe I’m just not seeing the whole picture here.”

“Maybe none of us do,” Apple Bloom adds with a small nod.

“You’re still young,” The mare replies with an amused chuckle. “What I’ve told you will make a lot more sense when you’re older.” And then raises an eyebrow before continuing. “However, if you don’t mind me asking. Who is this individual that you seem so eager to set your sister up with?”

“Oh, that would be Sonic.” The young filly chirps in an enthusiastic tone.

“We uh are all kind of trying to set him with one of our sisters.” Apple Bloom admits with a shy tone.

“Or sister like figure,” Scootaloo adds as she flares her small wings.”

The mare’s eyes widen for a moment as a small smile forms on her face. “Interesting, he is quite the charmer. You three will have your work cut for you on playing match maker, but my point still stands. You can’t force something that may not be there.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right.” Sweetie Belle admits with a sad tone. “By the way, we never got your name.”

“It’s Caramel Cream, and I think it’s time for you three to head off to school. Or else you’re going to be late.”

The three fillies instantly look over at the clock tower looming in the distance.

“Cripes, she right!” Scootaloo shouts as she starts galloping ahead. “We have to leave, now!”

“Right behind you!” Apple Bloom adds as she takes off to join her friend.

Sweetie Belle follows suit, but then suddenly stops and waves at the mare. “Thanks for the advice, I’ll see you later.”

Caramel Cream lets out an amused chuckle and waves back. “I’m sure you will, now run along now.”

“Bye!”

The mare continues to smile and wave at the three fillies until they disappear from sight. Which instantly shifts to a smirk as they disappear over the horizon.

“That was rather unexpected of you.” A new voice says as a large brown male pegasus appears alongside the mare. “I never took you for the nurturing type.”

The mare smiles, “It pays to familiarize yourself with your surroundings.” Her eyes then flash green for a second as her smile darkens. “Begin phase two.”

~***~

As he continues to tear up the landscape, a certain blue hedgehog suddenly notices that he’s the only one on the winding trail towards the forest. Slowing his pace a bit, Sonic starts to look around; hopping to spot one of the other individuals he was racing.

“I wonder where they went,” The hedgehog mutters to himself as he continues search the surrounding area. “Did something happen that…”

Whatever was said next, drowned out by the sound of something charging towards him at breakneck speed.

“Hey, Sonic!” A voice shouts in the distance; prompting said hedgehog to turn around just as something fills his vision. “TASTE THE RAINBOW!”

A mass of blue fur fills the hedgehog’s vision as he’s send tumbling backwards. While a multi colored tail slides across his face. As he loses his footing, Sonic is sent unceremoniously to the ground with a thud. As a blur of purple zips by.

“Wahoo! Piece of cake!” Rainbow Dash shouts as she attempts to fist bump the lilac feline running next to her.

“I believe we went a bit too far,” Blaze laments as she bits her lower lip. “My plan was only meant to scare Sonic. Not knock him out of the race.” The Sol Guardian risks a glance backwards and notices that there is no one behind them; inciting a gasp as a result.

“Hey what’s wrong?” The cyan mare inquires as she takes a quick glance backwards. “The big guys still not out is…”

“You know that was a pretty rotten trick,” A third voice chimes in, prompting the two to slowing turn forwards to a frowning Sonic; who is now in front of then, running backwards. “I can understand wanting to win, but that was a bit much.”

“S-sonic, I never meant to…” Blaze begins, but is cut off.

“Also, I believe this is the second time I’ve ‘tasted the rainbow.’” Sonic grimaces as he spits out a few hairs. “It still tastes like soap, so why do you keep asking me to try it? Or did you want me to find to ‘pot of gold at the end of it?’” The hedgehog says with a grin.

“I-I…” Rainbow Dash attempts to stutter out, but instead fall silent and blushes several shades of crimson.

“What about you, Blaze?” Sonic ask as he turns to an equally blushing cat. “What’s your take on Dash demanding that I ‘taste her rainbow’, hm?”

The feline remains silent as she slowly opens and closes her mouth like a fish out of water.

“Yeah, my thoughts exactly. See ya?” The blue hedgehog adds as he turns around and takes off; leaving the still baffled ladies in his dust.

“Blaze…” the cyan mare begins.

“We went too far, Dash. We went too far!” The feline exasperates. “He knows our weakness!”

~***~

As the CMC make the way to Ponyville’s local (and only) school house. The sounds of laughter and children at play drowns out most of everything else. As fillies and colts try to get a few last ‘precious moments’ of fun in before the long school day ahead of them

A small crowd at gathered around something in the middle of the playground, but the CMC seem to be too enthralled into their conversation to give it any thought.

“Ah, just can’t get what CC said ta us earlier outa my head. Are we going about this all wrong?” Apple Bloom inquires as she turns to her friends for an answer.

“Wait, who’s CC?” Scootaloo asks with a raised eyebrow. “I thought we talked to a mare named Caramel Cream.”

“That’s what CC is, you dolt!” Sweetie Belle chirps with an annoyed sigh. “How did you miss that?”

“Hey! I’m, not a dolt! Why not just call her by her real name instead of this ‘CC’ nonsense?” Scootaloo demands as she inches towards the young filly.

“Because we already know a Carmel, This way is less confusing. You stupid Do-do!”

The young pegasus smashes her muzzle into in the small unicorns face. “You take that back!”

“I will, when you acknowledge that Rainbow Dash isn’t the best match for…”

“Oh for bucks sake, this again! I we weren’t already on thin ice with Cheerilee on what happened last week. I’d bust you upside the head for that comment!”

“Girls,” Apple Bloom shouts as she steps between the two fillies and separates them, before the situation can escalate. “We need to stay focused here. Caramel Cream was wright, we need to not try to force this. We need to…”

“Show then how awesome Sonic is and how he’s be perfect for…”

“No Scoots, we’re not doing that.” Apple Bloom deadpans.

“Then what then?”

Both Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom face hoof at the question.

“Something else,” The young apple bucking mare adds. “We’ll explain after class.”

Sweetie Belle opens her mouth to add something to the conversation, but instead snaps it shut as some excited shouting can be heard nearby.

“What’s going on over there?”

“Ah, don’t rightly know. Let’s go find out.”

“Cutie mark explores!” The three shout for no particular reason.

~***~

In a heavily wooded forest, a lone birch grows before the edge of the tree line and the well-traveled path. That cuts through the wavering grass that leads into the nearby town. A gust of wind and dust blows through the landscape as an explosion of sound sends a few nearby birds fleeing. As the dust clears a lone figure can be seen, resting a gloved hand on said birch tree. A cocky grin appears on their face as they turn toward another rapidly approaching individual.

“Well, look what the cat dragged in.”

Blaze rolls her eyes as she slows jog and then stops in front of the large birch tree. “Oh, Ha.Ha. I haven’t heard that one before.”

“How about this one? Here kitty, kitty?”

The feline growls through clenched teeth as an orb of fire starts to emerge from her right hand.

“Whoa, no need for that!” Sonic shouts as he holds both hands in front of him. “Maybe I went a bit too far with that one.”

“Just a bit,” Blaze ceases her flames and lowers her arm. “One of these says, you’ll over step your bounds with me, Sonic.”

“I hope not,” The hedgehog grimaces. “Because you’re scary when you’re angry…and also really hot at the same time…uh no pun intended.”

Blaze flushes at Sonic’s comment as she turns away and mutters something under her breath.

Sensing an uneasiness in the air, the blue hedgehog shifts the discussion to something else.

“By the way, have you seen Dash?”

The sol ruler blinks, “Dash?”

“Yeah, she was right next to you last I checked. So I figured you’d finish at the same time.”

“Oh, uh she…”

Whatever was going to be said next, is abruptly cut off by the sound of muttering and shouting.

“What the buck guys? Why’d you two ditch me?” A certain cyan mare shouts as she struggles to make the last few legs of the race. “That is so weak, that you two left me like that. So, not cool.”

“We get it, Dash. Sorry.” Sonic snaps in an annoyed tone. “I got a bit excited and unintentionally bailed on you. My bad.”

The cyan mare’s ears fold back as she looks towards the ground and begins pawing at it. “It kind of bummed me out alright. We always go running whenever the weather is nice. So, it kind of felt like you didn’t want to run with me anymore. Now that Blaze is here.”

A gloved hand is placed on top of the mare’s multicolored mane and begins slowly rubbing it. Prompting the pegasus to look up at a set of sad emerald eyes. “Do you honestly think, I’d pull something crap like that? That I’d just stop hanging around with you because Blaze decided to take me up on an offer; that I’d been making for what? The last two weeks now?” The hedgehog adds as he gives the feline a mock glare and angry tone.

“Three weeks actually,” Blaze corrects.

“Thank you, Blaze.” The blue hedgehog snaps.

“You’re welcome,” The feline replies with a cheeky tone.

Sonic lets out a heavy sigh and turns his attention back towards the uncertain mare. “Look, my point is that I’d never do something like that.”

Blaze walks towards the cyan mare. “Does my presence displease you, Miss Dash?”

“No, that’s not it. I just…” Rainbow Dash lets out an angry groan throws her head back. “I just don’t want to be left behind again.” The mare then pouts. “I’m not good with this mushy stuff. So can we just move on please?”

“Sure thing and Dash,” Sonic begins with his trademark grin.

“Yeah, “

“Boop~!” Sonic taps the tip of the mare’s nose.

“Hey!” The mare snaps as she scrunches her muzzle and looks away. “I’m serious here.”

“Way to ruin the moment, Sonic.” Blaze chastises and she crosses her arms across her chest. “Miss Dash, seemed genially worried about what happened.”

The blue hedgehog lets out an amused chuckle as he scratches the tip of his nose. “I know, but I’m not really good with this sort of thing either. So…”

“So let’s talk about something else.” Rainbow Dash interrupts. “What were you two going to do at the old quarry, outside of town? I saw you guys checking it out the other day.”

Sonic places both hands on the mare’s shoulders. “Something awesome Dash, but that will come later.” He removes his hands. “I was going to show Blaze the gym in town. Wanna come along?”

“Na, I have something planned after this.” Rainbow Dash states as she looks away. “I’ll see you guys later.”

With a beat of her wings, the cyan pegasus takes off and fly’s back towards town.

“Was it something I said?” Blaze asks as she watches the mare disappear from sight.

“No, I believe it was something I did.” Sonic reply’s in a sad tone as he begins walking towards town. “But there’s nothing we can do about it now, c’mon.”

The feline nods and says nothing as she follows the blue hedgehog back to the sleepy country town.

Next Chapter Preview:

Sonic: "You really want to do this?"

Blaze: "I wouldn't have asked if I wasn't sure."

???" "YYYYEEEAAAHHH!"

Rainbow Dash: "Alright everypony, place your bets."

Wind and Fire

Author's Note

Things are beginning to heat up. This next chapter may be a little too hot for some readers. They may get burned if...ok i'll stop now.

As things return to normal, something stirs in the shadows. What does this mysterious individual want? And what does it have to do with everyone's favorite crusaders?

Find out, next time. On 'Battle for Equestria!'

A/N: Ok. another chapter down. This one didn't go how I expected it to, but given what's about to happen next. I needed to dedicate an entire chapter to it and not just some quick summary.

Let me know what you think in the comment section below.

All characters belong to there respective owners.

Hodgepodge

Hodgepodge

Chapter: 17

Hodgepodge

On the outer edge of a Ponyville, a certain feline and hedgehog make their ways towards the bustling center. Ponies and other creatures alike, pass by galloping/running at top speed to whatever has the town in a frenzy. Some pulling carts, while others zig zagging around the slower moving individuals.

“Must be some sale,” Sonic jests as he watched a small group of mare sprint past him and then shakes his head as he turns to lilac Sol guardian. “Am I right?”

The feline remains silent as she walks alongside the hedgehog. Tapping her chin with as she contemplates something to herself.

“Hey Blaze, you still with me?”

Sonic’s question snaps the Sol Guardian from her daze, as she sheepishly turns to the blue speedster besides her as a small blush appeared on her face.

“My apologize Sonic, I wasn’t paying attention. Could you please repeat the question?”

The blue hedgehog raises an eyebrow in response. “Something on your mind, Blaze?”

“I can’t stop thinking about what Ms. Dash said to us about the race earlier. She seemed genuinely worried about how things transpired today.” The lilac feline answers with a frown. “I don’t wish to step on anyone’s toes. Perhaps I should refrain from interfering with your morning routine in the future.”

“Na, it’s nothing like that.” Sonic states with a dismissive wave. “I think Dash was just ticked that we both left her in the dust. That’ all.” The hedgehog raises an eyebrow before continuing. “But, since you seem so concerned about it. I’ll talk to her tonight and let her know that you aren’t trying to take over our ‘little runs’.”

Blaze holds a closed fist to the bottom of her muzzle as if trying to convey her words properly. “That would give me peace of mind on this matter. You have my thanks, Sonic.” The feline adds as she turns back to the blue hedgehog and gives him a warm smile. “What would I do without you?”

Sonic scratches the back of head and lets out an amused chuckle. Drawing his attention to a brightly colored stall as they pass it. “You give me too much credit, Blaze. I’m just doing what anyone else would do. I’m sure it’s just a bit of a misunderstanding that’s all.”

The feline look away and furrows her brow as she processes the hedgehog’s response. Crossing her arms across her chest while doing so. A shout by a nearby vendor, breaks the felines concentration for a moment as she glances at the troublesome stallion. Who seems intent on making any passerby’s ‘take a gander at his wares.’ Most being of ‘pony friendly’ cooking utensils and cutlery. Blaze lets an annoyed out a huff as she turns back to path in front of her. “Be as it may, Sonic. You can’t deny that she seems troubled by the matter.”

“Like I said, I’ll talk to her about it later.” The blue hedgehog snaps with a bit of a harsh tone in his voice. Prompting the feline to give him a perplexed look in response. Realization dons on Sonic as he recalls how he just responded to the feline. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to take that out on you. It’s been a weird morning.”

“Understandable, I’ve had a few of those myself.” Blaze begins tapper her chin and continues. “Most of them rather recent, now that I think about it. Why is that?”

“You’re still getting used to things, once you get settled in. It will be easier to wrap your mind out a lot of things here. That you couldn’t before, trust me.” Sonic states as he glances at a vendor selling some rather questionable ‘exotic wares’ before turning back to the lilac feline. “But that can’t be all that’s bothering you. What’s up?”

The feline’s eyes widen as she turn to a concerned blue hedgehog. “Is it really that obvious?” Sonic nods as he crosses his arms and gives the guardian an apologetic look. “Very well then. Would you be offended if I asked you a bit of a personal question?”

“It depends on what it is, but knowing you, it’s probably nothing I’d mind answering.” Sonic replies with a slight smirk. “What up?”

Blaze gives the hedgehog a flat look before continuing. “I know it’s none of my business, but despite being in this land for as long as you have been. Why haven’t you made an attempt to find your own domicile? Rather, you share one with one of the residents’ of this town instead. Why is that?”

Sonic raises an eyebrow at the feline and give her the best ‘are you serious?’ look he can muster before answering. “Well two reasons actually,” The hedgehog begins as he holds up two fingers before continuing. “One reason being that, I honestly wasn’t planning on staying as long as I did. So, I never really sought out any place of my own. I figured I’d find a way back home in at most a few days tops. But then, bam. Six months go by and I’m still crashing at Twilight’s.” The hedgehog shrugs. “She never gave me any guff about it, so I figured it wasn’t a problem.”

“I wonder why,” Blaze says under her breath before continuing. “And the second reason?”

“Well it kind of ties to the first one. Despite being an outsider everyone seemed ok with me being here.” Sonic states as he turns his attention towards a rather busy market place. “Plus, I sort of felt ‘needed’ in a way when I was staying there.” The hedgehog adds with a small smile.

Blaze tilts her head in confusion. “How so?”

“Well, it would seem I was the only one able to drag Twilight away from her books or studies and to convince her to just go outside for more than a few minutes.” The hedgehog then lets out a nervous chuckle. “Had I know, it was starting to affect things, I would have laid off a bit.” The feline lets out a scoff. “It also seemed that I always around at the right time to assist in something…or save someone.” Sonic adds with a smirk.

“Hm I see,” Blaze comments as she taps her chin. “For some reason, I was expecting you to say you something else.” The feline then frowns. “Odd.”

“You almost seem disappointed in my answer.” Sonic jests with an amused laugh and then crosses his arms behind his head. “What were you ‘expecting’ me to say?” The hedgehog adds as he uncrossed his arms and used air quotes when appropriate.

The feline furrows her brow, as if trying to convey how to properly respond to the question. “Well I had figured you’d have come accustomed to the ‘hero worship’ or maybe become accustomed to things here and decided to stay.”

Sonic lets out a small chuckle. “Well I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy the fan far, but…” The hedgehog trails off as a frown appears on his face. “…I never felt like I belonged here. Sure, this is a nice place and all. It just doesn’t feel right…you know?”

“I do indeed, Sonic. I’ve had a similar ‘feeling’ since I arrived as well.” The feline using finger quotes, when appropriate. “But surely not from lack of effort. Everyone here has been so kind and welcoming.” Blaze then frowns. “Which makes me conflicted as to why these emotions still linger. Despite the contrary.”

“You got me,” Sonic replies with a shrug. “If I knew the answer to that, I’d stop feeling like a fish out of water here.”

“I find your choice of words to be quite odd.” Blaze teases with a smirk.

“Meh, it happens.” Sonic replies with another shrug. “Anyway, it’s my turn to ask a question.”

“Uh ok,” The feline leans back slightly. A bit taken by the abrupt subject change. “What did you want to know?”

“Do you remember that costume you wore at the capitol a few days back?” The hedgehog beings as he turns to the lilac feline.

“What about it?”

“Well, I used to know someone who wore an outfit just like that awhile back. So, either you two meet at some point or it’s one hell of a coincidence.”

Blaze begins tapper her chin as she ponders the hedgehog’s inquiry. “Well, when you put it that way. My attire choice for that evening, does require a bit of explaining. But first,” The feline trails off as she reaches into her coat, pulls something out of it, and then passes it to Sonic. “I should probably give this back to you.”

“Is this what I think it is?” Sonic asks as he takes the item from the guardian’s outstretched hand.

“Indeed,” Blaze answers with a slight smirk. As takes a glance towards a rather enthused Sonic as he examines a freshly polished gold pocket watch. “I made necessary adjustments when needed and even removed the patina that had started to form around the some of the hinge joints and around the crown.”

“Cool,” The hedgehog replies as he continues to look over the item and then turns his attention towards the Sol Guardian. “Thank you, Blaze. You did a great job on this.”

The feline blushes a deep crimson in response and then draw her attention to her hands. As she begins fiddling with them. “It was nothing, really. I just oiled and fixed some of the internal parts….I don’t deserve such praise for such a minor task.”

Sonic places a hand on the nervous guardians shoulder, prompting them to slowly turn towards him, “Just take the complement, Blaze.” The hedgehog then holds up the watch with his free hand. “It looks brand new. You even fixed that tweaked hinge that always got stuck.” To prove this, Sonic presses the latch release. Causing the cover to spring outwards. “Hey what’s this?”

Inside the inner part of the gold cover, sits a small photograph of a surprised Blaze and rather cheerful Twilight. With a foreleg over the feline’s shoulder and her horn lit with magic; most likely using it to hold the camera and take the picture.

“Twilight took it when she saw me working on the watch a few days ago. She just came up behind me, holding that stupid camera.” Blaze crumbles as she looks way. “She kept asking me put in to cover to surprise you, so I did.”

Letting out an amused chuckle, Sonic tucks the watch away for safekeeping. “Yeah, that sounds like Twilight. Always trying to brighten everyone’s day.”

Blaze raises an eyebrow. “I thought that was Ms. Pie’s department.”

“Well, to be fair. Everyone tends to fall under that category when they notice someone feeling down.”

The feline starts to tap her chin as she ponder this new information. “I see, that does explain a few things.”

“Yeah, it starts to make sense around here. Once you keep that in mind.” Sonic states as he glances an overly decorated flower stall. “Anyway, back to my original question.”

“Yes, of course. I owe you an explanation….”

~***~

“Well you seem to be high spirits.” A certain princess of love inquires as she watches a magically cast image of a now pink unicorn prance around her room.

Twilight grins at the comment, “Really, I hadn’t noticed.” The mare then returns to her usual demeanor and starts humming a tune to herself.

Cadence’s eyes narrow as an all knowing grin appears on her face. “Oh, I think I know what happened? Somepony got lucky last night.”

The mare stops dead in her tracks and begins to blush profusely. “What?”

“You don’t have to be the princess of love to see what’s going on here.” The alicorn’s grin intensifies. “So, tell me. Who’s the lucky stallion?”

“T-there is n-no stallion.” Twilight stutters out as her blush intensifies.

Cadance tilts her head. “A mare then? Twilight, you know I don’t judge. Whoever you find love with is fine by…”

“N-no, t-there is no stallion or m-mare!” The unicorn sputters as she looks away. “And nothing h-happened, Cadance.”

The princes of love raises her eyebrow and tilts her head to the side. “Then why are so ‘giddy’? Something happened, you’re usually a bit more reserved than this.”

“Well if you must know, I have a date with a certain somepony this weekend.” Twilight replies with a huff.

“You have a ‘date’?” Cadance’s eyebrows disappear behind her bangs. “Well, that’s great. Who asked you?”

“Well, I actually asked them and…”

“Oh, I bet it was Rainbow Dash,” The Princess interrupts as a huge grin appears on her face. “I always knew she played for the same team. Though, I figured she’d be the first one to make a move.”

“What?! No, it wasn’t Rainbow Dash!”

“Uh, Pinkie Pie? She strikes me as the ‘experimental type.”

Twilight scrunches her muzzle and lets out a groan. “No, it’s not Pinkie.”

“How about, Fluttershy? She always seems to be skittish around stallions. So it only makes sense that…”

“No, No, no! It’s not Fluttershy or any of my friends!” Twilight snaps. “What’s with you? What makes you think I’m into mares ‘that’ way?”

The smile vanishes from the alicorn's face. “Well, we all go through that ‘experimental stage’ when we’re young. I figured, with you being a late bloomer in that department, you’d start wanting to act on these ‘thoughts’. Given how you’re finally able to get out on your own and such.”

Twilight face hooves with an audible crack. “You’re just messing with me aren’t you?”

Cadance let out an amused giggle. “Just a little.” The alicorn’s expression shifts to a stern one. “Though I was serious on you playing catch up in the whole romance department. Your folks have been concerned that they’d never see you get a colt…or filly friend before they died. And don’t even get me started on grand fouls. There is something seriously wrong about your father in-law, asking you if there son is making you happy in the bedroom. ” The princess shakes her head to dispel the thought. “But enough about my troubles. Tell me, who’s the lucky stallion…or mare that gets to accompany you on this little get together of yours?”

“Well, it’s…”

“Hey Twilight, you for a minute?”

Both mare’s turn to a certain small drake as he walks into view; carrying a large pink box with several crudely drawn hearts on it. Who then sets the package down and wipes his brow with his hand.

“What’cha got there, Spike?” Twilight inquires as she eyes the box suspiciously. “You didn’t sign up for another cooking club did you? Because, we still have a cupboard full of funny dishes and pans that I don’t know what to do with from the last one you joined.” The mare jests with a smirk.

“That’s because you lack the knowledge of the culinary arts, you uncultured swine!” Spike retorts with an over exaggerated Prench accent.

Cadance snickers at the dragon’s outburst, gaining a glare from Twilight in return.

“What? It’s true. You can barely make toast, without burning it.”

The unicorn clears her throat. “My cooking skills aside…”

“Or lack thereof,” Spike quips.

Twilight rolls her eyes. “Anyway, what’s in the box? I don’t recall you ordering anything that comes in a bright pink package.”

“Pink…package?” Cadance’s eyes widen. “Wait…”

“That’s the thing, it’s addressed to you.” Spike replies, totally oblivious to pink alicorn’s request. “But, it doesn’t say who it’s from or has a return address…odd.”

“That is odd, did anything go off when you carried it through the front door?”

Spike rolls his eyes and lets out a heavy sigh. “No Twilight, nothing happened when I brought it in. Seriously it was one bad cupcake and Pinkie already apologized for a solid week for accidentally giving you that habanero pastry.”

“One can never be too careful,” The mare quips in a matter o-factly tone. “Now open it.”

The drake extends a claw and pokes it into the middle of the box tape. “Way ahead of you…”

“Wait stop!” The princess shouts as she leaps towards the pink projection.

~***~

“…then she mentioned something about wanting to be a designer and only entered the torment, because business was slow and that she was bored.” The guardian continues as she tells of who ‘influenced’ her Nightmare Night costume.

“Really? What else?” Sonic asks, listening to the feline’s explanation.

“Well, Honey did also mention that she lost to some ‘devilishly handsome blue hedgehog.’” Blaze adds as she turns to Sonic with a smirk. “Now who could that possibly be?”

Sonic taps his chin as he mock ponders the feline’s question. “Well it couldn’t have been me. I was…”

The rest of the hedgehog’s comments is cut off as he’s playfully shoved by an amused Sol guardian.

“You are such a liar,” Blaze retorts as she poorly stiffens a giggle. “Who else could it be? Hm?”

“Well I do have a twin that likes to pop in from time to time. That…”

“Who is actually you, from an alternate universe.” Blaze finishes with a bit of edge in her voice. “That is, last time you mentioned him. Bright green.”

Sonic lets out a sigh and holds his hands up in defeat. “Alright fine it was me.” The hedgehog grumbles as he turns away from the feline. “You’re such a kill joy.”

“I am not a ‘kill joy’. I’m merely wish to keep the facts straight. ” Blaze corrects a she rolls her eyes. “Now, if you really want me to leave a ‘lasting impression’ keep up with those snide comments you keep saying every few minutes.”

“Me-ow, I’m liking this new side of you.” Sonic begins with playful swat of his hand. “You don’t take guff from anyone and just say it like it is. That’s hot…uh pun intended.”

Blaze lets out a low groan as she holds up her right hand; balled into a fist. And ignites it.

“But, uh since you asked nicely. I’ll tone it down a bit.”

The feline ceases the flaming appendage and clears her throat. “Thank you,”

“Anyways,” Sonic begins as he turns back to the lilac guardian. “So, how did Honey get to your world anyways?”

Blaze’s expression shifts to a hard scowl. “That’s the thing, neither of us knew. She just appeared one day on the shore line of Plant Kingdom. Lost, hungry, and scared.” Her expression softens. “I happened on to the island by sheer chance. While investigating some reports of strange activity in the area.

“So then what happened?” The blue hedgehog asks as he continues pace with the Sol Guardian.

“Well, I gave her lift back to the mainland and offered a place to stay till she could figure out a way to return home.”

“Wait a minute,” Sonic interrupts. “You were doing that whole, ‘lone wolf’ thing when we first met. If I wasn’t the one to melt that frozen heart of yours. What did Honey to do get to you trust her and then make you go back to the way you were before I came along?”

“I was distant with others, not anti-social.” Blaze says with a huff.

“No, you were a recluse in every sense of the word.” Sonic corrects.

The feline lets out a low growl. “If you must know, Honey offered to teach me some basic combat techniques. In exchange for helping her out and giving her a place to stay.”

“So, she taught you how to fight?” The guardian nods. “And I take it that’s how you found out about me and started having those weird dreams of yours.”

Blaze shakes her head. “You have no idea. I believe she may have had a thing for you,” The feline jests. “But was afraid of that red fox that was always around you at the time.”

Sonic lets out a heavy sigh at the mention of his former friend. “Yeah, I can see how that would be an issue.” The hedgehog looks at something off in the distance. “So, what happened to her? She’s still not in your world, is she?”

“I think she’s back in yours. She may have been transported there when our dimensions were in flux and since she didn't have a link to any sort of cosmic powers. She was probably left alone.”

“Cool, I’ll have to drop by and say hello when I get back….if I ever get back.”

Noticing the hedgehog’s current demeanor. The Sol Guardian steers the topic to something else.

“So, where is this supposed ‘fitness center’ you mentioned located? We’re almost at the edge of town.”

“It's call a gym,” Sonic corrects. “And we’re almost there. It’s just right up ahead.”

On the outskirts of the town know for it ‘classic appeal’ of thatch roofed houses and rustic settings. Sits a building that sticks out like a sore thumb. With its stone white walls, large open windows, and brightly lit neon sign that can even be seen in the day. Of a giant barbell flexing in the middle by a massive muscular foreleg and hoof. Stands two off worlders gazing upon this sight with both wonder and amusement.

Blaze stares at the structure with an unamused look. “So, this is it? A giant stone box? Gee Sonic, you sure know how to show a girl a good time”

“You know it,” Sonic quips with a smirk.

The guardian’s face flushes a deep shade of red. “T-that’s not what I meant.”

“Hey, you said it. Not me.”

“Touché.” Blaze grumbles under her breath.

Sonic walks ahead of the feline and opens the door for her. “C’mon there is someone I want you to meet.”

The feline says nothing and walks through the doorway; with the blue hedgehog following behind her.

~***~

Entering a set of double glass doors, the feline is meet with a gust of cold air as an active fan spins right over the entrance. The jingle of a bell is heard as the door is swung open. Blaze shudders slightly at the radial temperature change. Her expression then shifts to one of confusions as the sound of heavy hoof steps can be heard; followed by the appearance of a massive white stallion.

“Ah, look we ave another customer.” The pony roars with a heavy accent as he closes the gap between himself and the feline. Prompting her to cower slightly “Welcome to Pumping Iron, I am-“ Another chime of the overhead bell prompts the stallion to cut himself off and turn towards the new arrival. “I’LL BE WITH YOU IN JUST A…Oh hey, if it isn’t my favorite customer.”

Slowly turning towards the source of the noise. Blaze spots Sonic standing in the doorway. With a cheeky smirk on his face. “Sup, Snowflake? I see you meet my friend I was telling you about.”

The stallion now known as Snowflake steps away from the feline and turns towards the blue hedgehog and greets him. “Ah yes, she just walked in. It is so good to see you, Sonic. These cream puffs have been making a mockery of this gym.”

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle. “I bet,”

“I assume you are here to put them in their places.”

“Not today,” The hedgehog states as he shakes his head. “I’m just here showing Blaze the setup you have here.” Sonic gestures to the burmese cat. “Snowflake this is Blaze,” He then turns to the stallion. “Blaze this is Snowflake aka …”

“BULK BICEPS!” The stallion interrupts with an intense roar, while striking a drastic. YEAHH!”

Blaze springs backwards in response to abrupt introduction and hides behind Sonic. Prompting the hedgehog to let out an amused laugh and shake his head.

“C’mon dude,” The hedgehog frowns. “We’ve been over this. You have to tone it down a bit. Or else you’re going to keep scaring off all your customers.”

“The mares like it,” Snowflake counts while striking a pose.

“To be fair,” Blaze begins as she steps out from behind the blue hedgehog. “I’ll admit the appearance is rather appealing.” She says with a slight purr. “The amount of…shall we say bravado you have exerted since my arrival. Is what the initial turn off for me was.” The feline frowns. “Confidence is fine, but over cockiness is what will scare most away.”

Sonic raises an eyebrow and slowly turns towards the feline. Prompting her to mirror the hedgehog actions and takes a step back in defense. “What? I can’t have an opinion on the matter?”

“No, no that’s not it.” The hedgehog replies as he shakes his head. “I just didn’t see it coming.” He then turns to a rather confused white stallion. “Well there you have it, Snow. It’s like I said; dial it back a bit and you’ll have this place packed in no time.”

The stallion nods. “I’ll keep that in mind.” His expression relaxes. “By the way, when are Rainbow Dashing and you doing another one of your ‘iron pony’ completions? A lot of the regulars have been asking about it.”

“I didn’t know you were a member. How often do you come here?” Blaze inquires as she tilts her head.

“Pfft, at least three times a week. More so if the weather isn’t optimal.” Snowflake states with a stern tone. “They both came in while I was running a special.” His expression shifts to a grin. “Which brought in record profits, once word got out that the two fastest runners in Equestria were regulars.”

Blaze gives the hedgehog a long look. “I knew there something different,” She gives him a sultry look. “Whatever you’re doing don’t stop. I’m liking the results.”

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle. “Glad to see my efforts are paying off.”

Snowflake clears this throat, “Always, your new training weights came in.” The stallion states as he lifts a small box onto a nearby table.

“Cool, I’ve been waiting all week for these.” The comments as he walks over to the box and opens it. Removing its contents. “So, what do I owe you?”

“The same as usual.”

“Of course,” The hedgehog scoffs as he rolls back his gloves and sets two sizable weights onto the table next to the box and then does the same with this socks and sets two larger ones alongside the other ones. Sonic then opens the box and does the process in reverse and tucks a set of smaller wrist weights into this gloves and some sizable ones back onto his shoes.

Blaze opens her mouth to ask about the old ones, but stops as she notices Sonic remove a feather pen from the box and scribble something on to each of them and then places them back into the box.

“There we go, another set down and ready for delivery.”

“Excellent,” Snowflake begins as he grabs the box with a forelegs and tucks it behind the counter. “I’ll be sure to have it sent with today’s outgoing mail.”

Blaze slowly raises her hand. “Uh, what just happened?”

The stallion and hedgehog turn to each other than back towards the feline. “I suppose some explanation is in order.” Sonic begins with smirk.

“My cousin in Manehattan is testing out a new form of weight enchantment.” Snowflake continues.

“I test them out and give them a score from one to ten on how well they work, send them back and then repeat the process.” Sonic adds.

“She’s shooting for a smaller size with more weight. So it’s not so cumbersome to wear. So far she’s been able to reduce the size by 50% and nearly double the weight.” The stallion says with a smug look.

The feline raises an eyebrow and then crosses her arms across her chest. “That’s actually, an interesting concept. I take it she’s also trying to do the opposite with larger objects? Making them lighter so they're easier to transport?”

“No, but I’ll mention it when I send this off.” The stallion says as he disappears behind the counter. “By the way that prissy unicorn friend of yours was here, just before you two arrived.”

“You mean, Rarity? What was she doing here?” Sonic inquires as he approaches the counter.

Some shuffling can be heard as the bulk of the stallions frame can be seen as he retrieves something from behind the front desk. “She dropped off something and told me to give it to you.” Snowflake mutters as he continues to search around the desk. “Now where did I put that…Ah ha!”

A massive (bedazzled) duffle bag is suddenly hoisted on the counter of the desk; making a loud clank as it’s set down. “Your friend said it was important and that it should help with ‘little set up’ two you have planned.” The stallion states as he flexes his front hooves in a ‘quoting’ motion.

“I wonder what it is,” Sonic inquires as he slides the back towards him, unzips it and reaches his hand inside. “Oh hey check this out it out, Blaze.” The blue hedgehog says while removing a small track top and holding it up. “Rares, came through with the equipment I asked her to whip up for us. I should probably give her a big hug next time I see her.”

Blaze looks into the bag and pulls out another article of clothing to look it over and notices a piece of paper falling out of the bag. “She’s requesting one as payment.” The feline states as she holds up a piece of parchment, with a crude message scribbled on it.

Sonic takes the paper and examines it. “Huh, so it does. You’d think she would have better hoof writing this this. It looks like it was written with a pink color crayon.”

“Maybe she wrote it in a hurry,” Snowflake comments as glances at the note.

“Yeah probably,” Sonic agrees with a dismissive shrug. “Anyway, we best get going. We’ve got to do this ‘thing’ later and are already burning daylight.” The hedgehog adds as he repack the duffle bag and zips it shut. “I’ll see you later, Snow.”

“Safe travels, hedgehog.”

The two turn to leave, but suddenly Sonic stops and turns back to the stallion at the front desk. “By the way, I almost forgot. What’s going on out there that has everyone freaking out in the market?”

“Bah, just some celebrity from Canterlot hosting some sort of conference. Honestly, I think it just some pony trying to get attention.

“Yeah probably,” The hedgehog comments with a shrug and a small wave. “I’ll see you later, bud.”

Just as the two step through the double doors, they hear someone yell about ‘putting the cookie down’ and then demanding that they ‘stop whining.’

~***~

Pushing their way through the crowd of excited fillies and colts, the CMC instantly met with the distinct sound of a certain spoiled filly’s voice and her equally bratty best friend.

“Don’t let the crowds fool you, most of these nitwits will disperse and move on to the next ‘big thing’ in a few days.” The pink earth pony states with a hint of detest in her voice.

“So, is price for living in a town where every day is not like the last.” Silver Spoon adds with a smugness in her tone.

The CMC roll their eyes and begin giggling at the poorly paraphrased quote. Till a new voice pipes in that neither of them recognize.

“I’m actually kind of hoping that’s the case. If I wanted everypony to follow me like a mindless drone. I would have stayed in Canterlot.” The pony spats as if the words have a foul taste to them.

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom turn to each other. While Scootaloo motions the two to follow her further into the crowd. The two nod in response and follow the small pegasus further into the frenzy of excited ponies.

“So, is that why you came here? For the quiet or was it for something else?” Diamond Tiara inquires as she continues to try and get on this ‘apparently famous pony’s good side.’ “Because if it’s the former, I can think of a lot nicer places than this one.”

“If only that were the case,” The new pony muses. “It was actually, because….” Whatever was about to be said it cut off as Scootaloo and then the rest of the CMC emerge from the crowd and stop before the new arrival.

“Oh hello,” A small female cream colored pegasus greets the three fillies with a kind smile. Her mane and tail sheen in the sunlight giving off an almost gold color. Despite apparently being from noble or high class heritage. The small filly stands in a relaxed position. Rather than the usual ‘regal’ one you’d often see with others of similar upbringing.

Diamond tiara scoffs at the new comers and tried to draw the cream colored filly’s attention back towards her. “Don’t mind them, they’re just the stupid dork crusaders. They are the town’s residential trouble makers.”

“That’s cutie mark crusaders!” Applebloom corrects with an almost feral roar. “You should know that by now!”

“What’s a ‘cutie mark crusader’?” The new pony asks as she looks towards the pink filly in response.

“Oh there just some blank flanks that haven’t found their ‘special talent’ yet. It’s best not associate yourself with losers like them.”

The new pony frowns at the comment and stands at her full height; standing a few inches higher than the snobby Diamond Tiara. “So, you’re saying that whoever hasn’t found their mark is just some worthless loser?”

“That’s right,” The pink filly replies without missing a beat, but then lets out a gasp when she realizes what she just said. “Wait, that’s not what I meant.”

“Really? Because from where I’m standing it sounds you meant exactly what you said.” Diamond Tiara shakes before the cream colored filly. “Considering that you’ve spent the last few minutes kissing my flank. You’d think that one would notice that I too haven’t found my ‘special talent’ yet.”

The CMC and a few others let out an audible when they notice the new filly doesn’t have any sort of indication of her mark. And then immediately turn to a now cowering Diamond Tiara.

“Wait Butterscotch, that’s not what I meant. Of course you’re not a loser, just that…” The frightened filly grovels.

“Just everypony else is,” The pegasus now known as Butterscotch finishes with a scowl.

Silver Spoon jumps in to save her friend, but then immediately back peddles when she notices everyone turn on her when she attempts to step in. Leaving the now hated Diamond Tiara to her own devices.

“Sorry, D.T.” They gray filly whispers as she leaves her friend to the crowd.

“I was hoping that my sister and I could finally find a place where a pony could be themselves without instantly being judged by a bunch of self-entitled little brats. Who instantly just to the conclusion that…”

“Uh ah beg yer pardon, but we’re not all like that.” A familiar voice cuts the pegasus off that has a hint of southern twang to it. Everyone instantly turns to the new voice, prompting the small filly to rear back slightly in response before continuing. “With the exception of that ther one and her friend ya’ve been yelling at. We’re actually rather hostis…hostests…” The filly attempts to say the word, but ends up biting her tongue in the process.

“Hospitable,” Sweetie Belle pips in, saving the young farm pony from further butchering the word.

“Yeah, that it.” Apple Bloom replies with bit of a slur in her voice from biting her tongue. “We’re rather hospitable to newcomers. So don’t let a one rotten apple, spoil what ya think of us.”

Butterscotch turn to the yellow filly and gives her a warm smile. “I’ll keep that in mind. What’s your name?”

“I’m Applebloom,” The farm pony replies, losing most of slur.

“Sweetie Belle,” The white unicorn adds as she steps besides the yellow filly.

“And I’m the radical, Scootaloo.” The final member adds as she strikes a drastic pose. “And together, we are the…”

“Cutie mark crusaders…or so I’ve heard.” Butterscotch finishes.

The group burst into a fit of laugher, while a certain pink filly slinks away with her tail between her legs.

~***~

On the vast outskirts of town, in a massive pit of mined stone and dirt. Sits a bored blue hedgehog skipping rocks across a narrow stream that cuts through the massive quarry. Sonic lets out sigh and lops a rather sizable stone across the small body of water; resulting with a large splash as it skips across most of it.

“You ready yet?” The hedgehog shouts as he picks up another stone and begins examining it. The rustle of some nearby foliage, prompts the hedgehog to look over his shoulder. “Blaze?”

“Give me a minute,” The feline shouts from deeper within the wooded area.

“A minute? A minute!” Sonic repeats in exasperation as he flips open his pocket watch. “Lady, I’ve been waiting for almost 20 minutes since the last time you said that. What is taking so ‘damn’ long?”

“I’m uh…having some difficulties.” The feline skittishly replies as the sound of stressed fabric can be heard.

“Difficulties? What sort of Difficulties?” Sonic raises and eyebrow as he tucks the watch away for safekeeping.

“I-it’s uh complicated,” Blaze stutters as a low groan can be heard; followed by a small sigh and a whispered ‘really?’

The blue hedgehog takes a few steps towards the noise. “Do you need any help?”

“NO!” The feline shouts, but then instantly lets out a sigh. “No Sonic, I got it. It’s just taking longer than I originally expected.”

“Look, if you need help just ask. I’m sure you’re just making a bigger deal out of it than it really is.”

More shuffling can be heard from the thicket, before a heavy sigh can be heard. “Ok fine, but you have to promise not to laugh.”

“I promise nothing,” Sonic quips as the approaches the wooded area. “But, I’ll try not to.”

“Good enough,” The feline mutters followed by small sigh.

Stepping through the dense wooded area, the blue hedgehog walks into a small clearing. In this clearing stands a certain feline. With her back to the Sonic; violently tugging at something on the front of her jacket.

“What’s up, Blaze?” The hedgehog asks, announcing his presence. “Caught if your zipper or something?”

The feline lets out a sigh and lets her arms fall to her sides. “Yes, that’s exactly what’s wrong. Perceptive as always I see.”

“I wouldn’t go that far. There isn’t much on that coat of yours. So, I just kind of made an educated guess.”

“Maybe so, but you were still correct in your assumption.” Blaze lets out a heavy sigh and slumps forward. “Very well then, if you believe you can assists in this matter. You’re welcome to give it a try.”

Turning towards the hedgehog the feline blushes slightly as she gestures to the issue with a shaky hand. Just below the collar, (where her necklace would usually be.) sits a mass of bunched of fabric. With the zipper popping out of track in a few places.

Take a few cautious steps towards the Sol guardian. Sonic glances at Blazes strained expression and then at the malfunctioning zipper on her coat. “Yeash, you barely even got that started. How did that happen?”

“A-A faulty zipper and trying to g-get ready in a hurry.” The feline stutters out as she looks away and her blush intensifies. “D-does you c-claim still hold true.”

The hedgehog examines the zipper and then begins scratching the side of his head. “I said, I’d give it a try. I never claimed I’d be able to, but I’ll do what I can.”

“T-thank you,”

Sonic reach for the jacket, but then abruptly stops. “I just have one quick question before I start.”

“Y-yes,”

“Are you wearing anything underneath this? Because I don’t want to be accused of be a perv or anything.” The hedgehog jests with a small chuckle.

The feline clenches her teeth and takes a shallow breath. “I assure you. If all that’s done, is assistance with my current ‘predicament’ then now one shall brand you as such. However,” Blaze turns towards the blue hedgehog. “If take this as an opportunity to do something very foolish. Then my current view of you will be the least of your worries.”

Sonic slowly nods in response and lets out a nervous laugh. “Don’t intentionally copa-feel, or else I’ll be turned into charcoal. Got it.”

“It will be far worse than that,” Blaze corrects in a cold tone. “I’ll spare you the details, but I ask you to please hurry. Before this gets even more awkward.”

“That ship has already sailed, princess.” The hedgehog quips. “But I’ll try to make it quick.”

Standing before the Sol Guardian, Sonic grabs a chunk of the troublesome fabric with one hand and the zipper with another. Blaze shutters at the motion, but remains silent and continues to look away; as the blush on her face increases.

“Alright, on the count of three. I’m going to give it a try.” The feline nods as her blush doubles. “Three,”

Sonic yanks downwards on the faulty zipper with tremendous force and…nothing happens. “What the,” The hedgehog mutters as he tries to pull the zipper down again. “Seriously?” Then the zipper moves an inch, but then stopped. “Are you kidding?”

Frustrated with the uncooperative garment. Sonic removes his hand and bites down on the thumb of his right glove and slides it off. “Stay still, Blaze. I have an idea.”

Before the feline can reply to the comment. The hedgehog’s not ungloved hand reaches into the new opening of the coat and tried to free the zipper from the other size. Blaze lets out a gasps and open her mouth to protest, she’s cut off by a certain blue hedgehog.

“Hold still, I almost got it,”

“W-what are you,” Blaze stutters out as flush increases a thousandfold.

“Trying to remove whatever is caught in the zipper,” Sonic mutter out and the treacherous coat starts to open. “Whatever you’re wearing under this, is falling apart.”

The feline gulps at these words and the current situation. “J-just be careful, this might,”

Before the guardian can finish her sentence. The contents from under her coat burst forth; making a comedic ‘bounce’ as they spill out. Prompting one particular blue hedgehog’s eyes to widen to almost impossible size. And a Sol guardian to let out a shriek and turns away; making a feeble attempt at holding her purple jacket closed.

Blinking a few times, the blue hedgehog snaps out of his daze and crosses his arms. “Ok, I’m just going to address the elephant in the room here and ask; WHERE THE HELL DID THOSE COME FROM?”

“Weren’t you taught the basics of female anatomy that…” Blaze begins, trying to lighten the situation.

“No I mean, last time I checked. You weren’t packing all that under your coat there.”

Blaze blushed, “Y-you were s-spying on me,”

“NO! That’s not what I meant” The hedgehog snaps as he face palms and lets out a heavy sigh. “Look, that outfit of yours covers almost everything, but still gives an idea of what you’re packing under there and from what I just say that’s….” Sonic trails off as he notices a pile of long strips of fabric. “What’s this?”

Holding up one of the long strips, the hedgehog examines the new item in his hand. “Sarashi wrap? What’s this doing here?” Blaze turns around and attempt to snatch the item out of Sonic’s hand, but the blue hedgehog leaps back; just out of her reach. “So, that’s what’s going on? You were using this as support?” The hedgehog lets out a small chuckle. “If you needed something like that, I’m sure Rarity would have whipped up something if you asked.”

“There is more to it than that, actually.”

“Really, if not for support than it was for…oh.”

The feline silently nods and turns away.

“So, how long has this been going on?”

“Too long I’m afraid,” Blaze begins grabbing at the ends of her coat. “It originally started as just something to let my clothes fit longer; since they are a bit troublesome to reproduce. However, after a while. It became almost something I did out of necessity. Since I feared others would treat me different if I had changed.”

“I take it that includes me?”

Blaze nods and continues to look away. “But now that the secrets out, you’ll acting differently around me.” She sighs. “Just like I feared.”

Sonic frowns at the comment and takes a few cautious steps towards the sacred feline. “No offence, Blaze. But that is pretty petty if you ask me.”

The guardian goes rigid. “What?”

Placing a hand on Blaze’s shoulder, the hedgehog says. “As time goes on, we all grow and change. Hell, when we first met you and me were almost the save height. Now i’m at least two feet taller since then and you're still only a smidge shorter than I am. So, to say that you feared others would notice a change. It’s safe to assume they already have.”

“I suppose you’re right.” Blaze chokes out with a heavy sigh.

“And have they acted different around you? Well in bad way, I mean.”

“No, they haven’t.” The feline begins with new found confidence. “In fact they’ve stopped threatening me a child and more like a ruler of a nation.”

“And do you think maybe, it’s because they realized that you’ve grown both physically and mentally.”

A big smile appears on the felines face. “You’re right, this was all just foolish. I have nothing to worry about.”

“Exactly,” The hedgehog says with a nod. “You have nothing to hide and shouldn’t worry about what others think. Because…”

The rest of Sonic’s reply is cut off as he grabbed and held in a warm embrace. Long thin arms wrap around him and lock into place. The hedgehog repeats this actions and wraps his arms around the feline’s narrow torso.

“Thank you, Sonic.” Blaze’s muffled voice can be heard and she buries her face into the hedgehog’s shoulder. “You’ve always been there for me, when no one else was. I’m sorry for ever doubting you.”

Sonic pats the feline on the back with his right hand. “Hey, don’t worry about it. I’m just glad I got you here with me. It’s easier to face the unknown, when you have someone by your side.”

Blaze lets out a small giggle and pulls away to an arm’s length. “I didn’t take you for the sappy type.”

The hedgehog shrugs. “I have my moments.”

A silence hangs in the air as the two say nothing and simply enjoy each other’s company. A slight breeze, blows in, causing the feline top shudder slightly. To which she then notices her current state of dress and blushes profusely.

“M-maybe I should finished getting changed. It would be most unpleasant to catch a cold out here.”

Sonic tilts his head. “You can do that?”

The feline gabs him in the side and lets out a laugh. “Always with the jokes, eh Sonic?”

~***~

Standing on the edge of a heavily wooded area. A particular blue hedgehog looks into the horizon and begins tapping his foot. “C’mon Blaze, it’s almost noon. Will you hurry us already?”

The rustling of some trees, draws the hedgehog’s attention towards its source. To a particular sight; standing before the tree line is one Blaze of the Sol dimension. Except rather than her normal regal attire. She now dons a two piece purple track suit. With red piping and a thin yellow stripe going down the side. Along with a sizable midriff; showing off a generous portion of her toned white stomach.

Sonic lets out an impressed whistle and give the feline a one over. “Well somebody has been taking there vitamins.” He then smiles. “I’m liking the new look, Blaze. You now look like you’re ready for an adventure and not some royal summit thing.”

Blaze blushes slightly and looks way. “T-thanks, I’m glad you like it. It’s a bit of a change from what I usually wear.”

“Hey you won’t get any complaints from me,” Sonic begins before glancing at the feline toned abs. “I didn’t know you had a white stomach.”

“Yes, the coloring actually goes up to my shoulders…” Blaze claims before her face contorts into a confused expression. “Wait why am I tell you this?”

“Beats me, but I’m not complaining.”

I’m sure you wouldn’t” The feline jests. “So, you ready to do this?”

Sonic grins. “I’m ready when you are...wait.” The hedgehog reaching behind his back and pulls out a small red box. “Almost forgot.”

“What’s that?” The feline asks, while tilting her head.

“Oh, just something to assure there will be no ‘complications’.” Sonic replies as he pulls over a small chain with a purple charm on it and drapes it over his neck.

“Like what?”

“Well for starters, it protects me from having my flesh seared from my bones.”

Blaze cringes, “Good thinking, I take it Twilight made that for you?”

“What gave it away?” The hedgehog jokes.

Oh, I don’t know. Maybe it’s the fact that the protection charm is in the shape and color of her mark.”

“Hm, cute and smart. You ready to do this?”

The feline blushes, “D-don’t try to distract me, I won’t go easy on you.”

“Oh, that’s what I’m hoping for.

~***~

High in the sky a small group of pegasus look down at the impending battle below. One certain cyan mare flares are her wings to get everyone attention.

“Alright everypony, place you bets.”

Next Chapter preview:

Blaze: "Well this is certainly unexpected."

Sonic: "That's what makes it fun."

Cadance: "Careful Twilight, if you don't take action soon. The ones you love, may slip away from you."

Rainbow Dash: "Ah yeah, this is going to be awesome.

Wind and Fire

Wind and Fire

Chapter - 18

Wind and Fire

"Wait! Don't open that!" A distinct voice shouts at a pink projection of Cadence dives for the mysterious package; only to phase through both said box and a rather confused unicorn and a dragon before sliding across the floor just before a rather large bookshelf. The princess of love face hooves and lets out an annoyed groan. "That's right; I'm not here."

Twilight breaks her attention away from the pink parcel and slowly turns towards the downed alicorn with a flat expression. "Was that necessary? What is in this that you don't want us to see?"

"It's not like we haven't seen anything like ‘this' before." A third voice chimes in, as a small grunt can be heard; followed by a loud thud as the hefty box is dropped onto the floor. "I mean even Twilight knows about the ‘birds and the bees'."

The princess of love tilts her head to the side, "The what?"

"The ‘fillies and the colts'," Twilight replies, followed by a shake of her head and a small giggle. "Don't ask."

"Yeah, that's what I said." Spike comments as the sound of turning pages follow. "You two just had to go and put your own ‘labels' on everything."

The projection of Cadence rises to her hooves and shoots the lavender mare a raises an eyebrow; inciting a shrug in response. "What are you reading over there?" Twilight inquires as she turns towards away from the princess and back towards the small drake. The mare's face flushes several shades as she spots a particular magazine in Spike's clawed appendage.

"S-Spike put that down!" Twilight stutters as she makes her way towards the small dragon. "You shouldn't be reading those."

Said drake flips to another page before responding. "Relax, like I said; it's nothing I haven't seen before." Spike's eyes widen for a moment as he turns to another page. "Correction, almost nothing I haven't seen before."

"Still, it's not something somepony your age should be reading." The mare replies as she uses her magic to cease the ‘offensive material; only to stop halfway and glare at the young drake. "Wait, where have you seen anything like ‘that'?"

Spike peeks up from the magazine and looks up at a rather confused unicorn. "The anatomy books we have here, give a rather detailed description of pony physiology." The drake responds as he gestures to a small stack of books in the corner. "But that's nothing compared to ‘this'." He adds; gesturing to the periodical in his claws before looking back down and flipping to another page.

"Maybe so, but I still think you still shouldn't be reading something so…so foul," Twilight states in a low tone and grabs the magazine with her magic and attempts to pulls it away from the young dragon's grasp.

"Hey, get your own!" Spike barks as he tries to keep hold of the magazine. "This box is full of them, so there's probably something in there even your rude a** will probably like."

"Spike language!" Both Twilight and Cadence shout as the former ceases her magic hold of the magazine. The dragon grumbles something under his breath and flicks the now crinkled magazine in his grasp walks to the other side of the room.

Trotting towards the now unattended box, Twilight uses her magic open the parcel and pears inside; instantly flushing upon doing so. "C-Cadance!" The mare sputters as she turns to a certain alicorn; which is slowly retreating out of the room. "W-what is all this?"

"Leisure reading," The Princess replies as if the answer was obvious. "Figured you could use something to jump start that ole libido of yours."

Twilight tilts her head. "My what?"

"Desire to do some hanky panky," Spike states as he flips to another page.

The mare turns to the drake and then back to the princess. "What?"

"You know, when a couple wants to express their feeling for one another, they," Cadence begins as she taps her front hooves together in a suggestive manner. "Sometimes they express it by…"

"I know what it means!" Twilight snaps, cutting the princess off. "What I don't get, is why you think I lack in that department. I mean, what were we just talking about a moment ago that would suggest that I don't…"

Cadence raises a hoof to silence the irate mare, "To be fair, I sent that out several months ago. Long before either of our ‘little talks'. Why it's only arriving now, is beyond me."

"I think I know why," Twilight mutters to herself.

Off in the distance, a grey pegasus crashes into a stack of hay bales. Knocking them over and across a very annoyed farm pony's front yard.

"Opps, my bad."

‘Consarnit, not again!"

Back at the library, a particular unicorn continues to glare at a projection of the princess of love.

"Besides, we were only talking about simple courtship," Cadence says with a smirk. "Not what you plan to do once you found yourself a special pony."

Twilight blushes profusely. "Don't turn this back on me!" The mare shouts as she shoves the box towards Cadence's projection. "You still haven't answered my question as to why you sent me all this…this questionable literature!"

"You know I can't interact with this, right?" The princess deadpans as she phases her astral hoof through the box. "If you're trying to make a point, your going have to show me what's inside the box."

With a flair of Twilight's magic, the contents of the package burst forth and surround the alicorn princess. "Oh my," Cadence mutters in shock. "I didn't think there was this many. I only asked that a few pieces be sent, not all this."

"But why send them to me at all?" Twilight demands. "What made you think it was ok to meddle in my personal affairs?"

Cadence glances at a few of the magazines before responding. "Like I told you a minute ago, your folks were pressuring me to help you get a special pony. So I figured getting you interested in stallions…or mares was the best step to start off with."

"I don't understand. "Twilight begins with a frown. "Why would anypony think I'm not interesting in finding a special somepony?"

"Well, you always seem to have your nose buried in some book, not showing much interest in anything else." Twilight opens her mouth to comment but is cut off as the princess continues. "Yeah, I mean you've made a few friends since moving to Ponyville. But it wasn't until recently that you even showed interest in any relationship with another."

The mare takes a moment to process the princess's comment before responding. "Still, why all these?" Twilight motions to the floating ‘literature' before continuing. "Why not some book on the subject or at the very least something a bit more tasteful?"

Cadence blows a raspberry in response. "Those dusty old books or outdated ‘guides' never actually work. It's best that you've just got to take a crack at it and see what works. That's how I learned," The Princess trails off as she glances as one of the still floating magazines. "Just not this much at once. I'll have a talk with my steward on the meaning of word subtle."

"Please do," Twilight smiles as she uses her magic to returns the magazines back to the box. "I appreciate the sentiment, but this a bit much." The mare adds gesturing to the pink package.

"Agreed, I should have asked you before assuming anything." The alicorn then gives the mare a cheeky grin. "But now back to the matter at hoof. Who did you ask out that you needed advice on?"

Twilight opens her mouth to response is cut off by the sound of dry heaving and the abrupt departure of a certain purple drake.

"Oh Faust, my eyes! I think I'm going to be sick!" Spike shouts as he rushes out of the room and disappears down the stairs.

"What's got into him?" Cadence inquires as she watches the dragon disappear from sight.

"I don't know; maybe it had something to do with that magazine he was reading." Twilight seizes the discarded literature with her magic, brings it to her face, and opens it to the last page it was left on. The mare's eyes go wide as a look of shock flashes across her face. "Mom?"

~***~

"Stand still, damn it!" A certain feline shouted as she attempted to land a hit a particular blue hedgehog.

"Not a chance," Sonic quips as he dodged the Sol ruler's strike and leapt backwards. "You need to calm down. You're not going to get any ground if you keep blindly trying to attack me like that."

Blaze lets out a low growl and lunges towards the blue hedgehog.

A tremor rattles the landscape, knocking f the ponies spectating off balance or fumbling to the ground.

"Are you sure it's safe to be this close?" A pink female earth pony with a yellow mane inquires. "Maybe we should back up a bit."

A certain cyan mare lands and gives the mare a smug look. "Na, this is the perfect spot. If you can't handle the heat…"

Whatever the mare was about to state is cut off as a pillar of fire shoots into the sky; just a few metres from where she was standing. Rainbow Dash gulps and the close call as she pulls something out from under her wing.

"Alright everypony, back up! Where too close!" The mare shouts into a oversized megaphone. "C'mon, move your flanks!"

The pink mare shoots Rainbow Dash a flat look before joining the others as they move to a safer location.

"That Sonic really needs to learn to stop putting his hoof… I mean foot in his mouth." The mare mutters as she trots past the cyan pegasus.

"Oh please, Bursyamo there needs to learn how to take a joke," Dash replies as she tucks the megaphone back under her wing. "Big guy's just having a little fun."

The mare shakes her head as she disappears into the crowd. "I hope your right, for both our sakes."

Dash looks on at the battle below as the feline continues to land a strike; only to miss and either swipe through the air next to the blue hedgehog or a piece of the landscape that meets an unfortunate end from her assault.

"Yeah, me too."

~ 15 minutes earlier ~

"I can't believe you forgot," An amused feline begins as she pulls her right arm behind her head with her left one. Till small crack is heard, followed by a slight wince. "You're the one that's always reminding everyone to ‘limber up', before doing anything ‘extensive."

Sonic lets out a quiet ‘meh' in response to Blaze's assessment while mirroring the felines movements; except in reverse. "What can I say, I guess I got so excited. That it totally slipped my mind. It happens."

"Indeed," The felines replies with a solemn nod and then switches arms before continuing. "While the simple life does have its benefits. It sometimes doesn't mesh well with our usual…shall we say ‘active lifestyle'? So, it's not uncommon to forget the regular routines that coincide with it."

Sonic switches to some improvised leg stretch. "More or less, it's like when you spend most of your evenings doing guard duty. Then to suddenly not have to do it anymore; after you've done it for so long. Leaves you unable to find something to do when nighttime rolls around."

"You used to have guard duty; I thought you were…"

"It was just an example," Sonic interrupts. "Though to be fair, I did have to on occasion. When we were short staffed or someone was sick, but that's beside the point."

"Yes, I suppose you are correct." A frown forms of the felines face as she lets her arms fall limp. "I've more than one occasion entertained the thought of offering to my council on some matters with the princesses." Blaze shrugs before continuing. "You know with my experience and all, but all I know is what to do turning times of hardship, conflict, or whenever Nega is up to something. However, this land is experiencing a long-term time of peace and from what other have told me. It has been like this for a while…with them ruling the entire time. So, it would feel rather out of place for me to suggest something, they probably already have figured out, long before I have."

The blue hedgehog raises his hand and opens his mouth to comment, but stops when he notices the Sol ruler isn't finished with her rant.

"Which begs the question; what are we doing here, Sonic?" Blaze exclaims as she throws her arms into the air in frustration. "I mean, why are either of us here? When this world apparently doesn't need us? It can't just be dumb luck or a fluke," The feline turns to the hedgehog. "Can it?"

Sonic expression shifts to an obscure one before frown crosses his face. "I used to ask myself the same thing when I first got here. Why of all the worlds and dimensions I could have gone, did I end up in this one?" A small smile crosses his face. "But then I realised something,"

"What's that?" The feline inquires.

The hedgehog shrugs before responding. "That it doesn't matter,"

"I don't follow,"

"Well, whatever the reason is. I'm here now, and I might as well make the best of it. And I think the same applies to you, Blaze." Sonic assures with a smile. "I mean, why else were you getting those visions and what not. There has to be a reason."

Blaze taps her chin as she processes what the blue hedgehog just explained. "Perhaps you are correct, but what could it possibly be that would warrant us to get involved?"

"I don't know," Sonic replies in a low tone. "But whatever it is, it's going to be big. And only time will tell when it happens."

The feline gives the hedgehog a sour look. "That was rather profound, Sonic. I was half expecting you to say something along the lines of ‘don't worry, we'll be back home before you can say onomatopoeia.' Or something equally as ridiculous." Blaze grins at the hedgehog. "It would appear your time here has been beneficial to you."

"I'm just going assume that was supposed to be a compliment," Sonic jokes before continuing. "But back to what I was saying; it seems like the only reason we're both here. I mean what else could it be?"
Blaze opens her mouth to interject, but is cut off as she's smacked across the back; causing her to stumbled forward in the process. "Now c'mon, enough standing around being all philosophical and stuff. Let's do this."

~***~

"No that can't be it, they seemed to be getting along then." The Pink mare comments as she watches Sonic as he continues to dodge the feline's attacks effortlessly. "Something else must have set her off."

Rainbow Dash taps her chin with a hoof as she watches the battle unfold. "Well if that's not it then…" The mare trails off as her eyes widen to a comically large size. "Wait, how do either of us know about that? They were already wrecking the place when we got here."

The two mare's shrug in unison before particular rainbow manned speedster turns to the mysterious mare. "I'm sorry, I never got your name."

"It's Lily, Lily Valley."

The cyan mare face hooves. "That's right, your one of the floral sisters that run that cart in town. How could I have forgotten about that?"

"Well, when was the last time you ever step hoof near any place that sells flowers?"

"Touché,"

As the two start to converse with each other. Pinkie Pie emerges from behind a large rock. "Phew, that could have been a real doozy, if they figured it out." The mare then turns to the reader. "Confused? Well then, sit back and let me try and clear things up for you."

~5 minutes earlier~

"It would seem, you may be on to something. Our recent conversation has given me a lot of think about." Blaze comments as she interlaces her hands above her head and shifts torso to the left, while her arms are to the right; till a series of small cracks can be heard.

While a certain hedgehog has his right leg bent and his left leg straight. Shifting his torso to the right and left. "It's just a theory I've had for a while. I mean why else are either of us here."

"Indeed," The feline mutters to herself as she pulls her right leg up and tucks it behind her head. "But it still would be nice to know the 'when' since we already know the why."

"I guess sooner than later," Sonic answers as he changes his stance. "With all that's been happening, I'd say it's gonna be...whoa!"

The hedgehog trails off as his attention is drawn to the feline besides him and the current stretch she's performing. Sonic lets his arms fall limp as he admires the feline's flexibility as well as attire and how it perfectly contours to her posterior.

Blaze notices the hedgehog's sudden silence and turns to her companion; which currently has a blank look on his face. "Is something the matter, Sonic? You kind of just trailed off just now?"

"I..um was just thinking about something." The hedgehog mutters out as he tries to tear his eyes away from the felines shapely behind.

"Really? And what would that be?"

"It's not important, no need to worry about it."

"Very well then, I'll take your word for it." The feline replies as she lets her right leg fall back towards the ground and pulls her left leg into the air; glancing at the hedgehog beside her out of the corner of her eye. As his expression shifts to his usual one to one of surprise and then to his previous blank one.

"Sonic," Blaze begins. "Hey, Sonic!" She then snaps.

The felines abrupt shift in tone snaps Sonic out his trance. "Whats up, Blaze?"

"You were staring," Blaze replies flatly.

"No, I wasn't!" The hedgehog counters. "I was just...uh admiring the uh outfit Rarity made for you. It's not often I see you out of your usual get up."

A smirk appears on the feline's face. "Really? You were 'admiring' my choice of clothing just now?"

"Yep, you should thank her next time you see her."

"I intend to, that I promise you. However, I will also address Ms Rarity on her tapering skills." The feline gestures to her torso with her free hand. "The jacket is a bit tight in the chest. While, the pants are rather snug in some places. And don't even get me started on this midriff." Blaze adds motioning to her exposed stomach with a small huff.

"Hey, you'll get no complaints from me," Sonic eyes widen as soon as that statement leaves his mouth. "Uh...I mean, I'm sure Rarity just made an honest mistake. Since you kind of were wrapped up like a mummy a few minutes ago." The feline's eyes narrow, prompting the hedgehog to fumble out another response. "Plus, it's probably her first time working with your 'proportions' and such."

A mischevious smile appears on the Sol Guardian's face. "You honestly expect me to believe that?" The feline takes a few steps to the side of the hedgehog and arches her back forwards in a way that has her feet remain on the ground, while both her hands touch the ground; causing the already stressed fabric to stretch further and give the hedgehog an eyeful of her ample bosom.

"Uh, yes?"

"You little pervert," Blaze teases as she returns to a standing position. "You were staring at me the whole time." She adds walking towards the shocked hedgehog.

"Well, to be fair. You were just asking for it, with that last stunt you just pulled."

"Oh-ho, so you finally admit it." The feline continues as she saunters around the now flustered hedgehog in a suggestive manner. "You finally show your true colours, Sonic." She adds while dragging her index finger from the middle of the hedgehog's collar bone right to the bottom of his chin. "You naughty boy,"

"Yes, I have been a very bad boy." The hedgehog replies with a lone tone.

Blaze takes a step back as her face goes flushed. "Wait, what?"

A huge smile suddenly appears on Sonic's face. "Oh, I like where this is going. I don't know what's gotten into you, Blaze. But I like it."

The feline says nothing as she opens and closes her mouth, trying to form a response.

Sonic tilts his head to the side before continuing. "What's wrong? I thought that was what you were going for?" The hedgehog then crosses his arms and lets out a sigh. "And here I figured you were trying to be more assertive." He then shakes his head. "I guess not."

"N-no, that's not what..." The feline mutters, as she finally finds her voice. "I was just...UGH! You do this every time, Sonic!"

"Every time, I what?"

The Sol Guardian balls her fists and clenches her teeth. "You always have to be the aggressor in these things. If your not the one making the first move, you'll be sure to turn it around in your favour."

"Uh Blaze, you're not making any sense. I mean if you were trying to make yourself attractive. You don't need to put on some act; you obviously aren't comfortable doing. Just be your...WHOA!"

Whatever Sonic was about to say, is cut off as something shoots past his head and explodes behind him. Risking a glance; the hedgehog looks behind him and notices a boulder split in two; with small arcs of lightning rolling off of it.

"Did you just-Did you just shoot lighting? That's awesome!" Sonic exclaims as he turns back towards the now enraged Sol Guardian. "Uh, Blaze?"

A look of both anger and embracement is present on the feline's face. As she balls her fists, while also taking a defensive stance. "Prepare yourself!" She proclaims as her forms engulfs in a raging inferno.

"Prepare for what?" Sonic begins just as the Guardian lungs at him. "Oh s***!"

~***~

"And I think that about sums it up!" A certain party pony announces as she plops down on her haunches and pulls out a comically oversized tub of popcorn. "And questions?"

"Yeah, just one?" A new voice inquires, prompting the mare to turn towards its source.

"Who are you talking to?" A confused Rainbow Dash asks as Lily nods in agreement.

"Oh nopony," Pinkie replies as she stuffs her maw with a massive amount of popcorn. "You should be paying attention to the fight." The mare adds, with only a slightly muffled voice.

"Uh right," The cyan mare mutters as she submits to any more questions from the party pony. Since it would only just confuse her further.

~***~

As the spectators slowly begin to increase, the battle down below has become rather one-sided. Since from the beginning, the Sol Guardian hasn't landed a single strike upon the blue speedster. While the latter has only dodged all attacks and as yet to throw a single punch or kick.

"Stop screwing around and fight me!" The feline roars as she attempts to land spinning heel; only to be blocked by a now smirking blue hedgehog. "Uh oh."

"Well, if you insist," The hedgehog replies in a friendly tone as he grabs the ankle of the guardian's leg he just blocked and effortlessly flings her over his shoulder. Causing said feline to lets out a powerful shriek as she's tossed to the ground.

"But only on one condition," Sonic finishes as he turns to the fallen combatant.

"And what would that be?" Blaze snaps as she springs to her feet and brushes herself off.

The hedgehog cross his arms and frowns at the Sol Ruler. "Well for starters; you need to calm down. We're not accomplishing anything with you acting like this."

"But, I'm not..eep!" Blaze is stopped mid-sentence as a particular blue speedster appears right in front of her; still bearing the same expression as before. "Sonic?"

"You mind trying that again, Blaze?"

The feline lets out a huff and crosses her arms. "Alright fine, I guess I was acting a bit rash."

"Pfft, a little rash?" Sonic laughs in response. "You were out for blood just a few minutes ago."

"Well if you hadn't gotten me so riled up." Blaze snaps.

The hedgehog takes a step back and holds his hands up in defence. "Alright, I'm sorry. Jeez. Had I known that you'd fly off the handle like that, I wouldn't have said anything."

"Apology accepted," The feline mutters under her breath.

Sonic smacks his hands together loudly before responding. "Good, let's finally get underway." He adds before zipping away and disappearing into some thick brush.

"Hey, where are you going?"

The hedgehog returns holding several long strips of white fabric. "Just grabbing something. Hey, can these resist fire and heat?"

"T-they do, but w-why do you have those?" The feline studders as notices her former Sarashi wrap in Sonic's hands.

Sonic begins wrapping one of the pieces around the top of his left glove and then down to the middle of his forearm. "Well, as great as the charm Twilight made works, I still can feel a lot of the heat. Which, as you can image negates point of this little exercise if I neither of us can get close; without risk of injury; mainly me." He then looks up at the feline; who's now sporting a dark blush. "You don't mind do you? I figured after today; you wouldn't need them anymore."

"Go ahead." The feline turns her head in a weak attempt to hide her crimson expression. "Why would I mind?"

The hedgehog raises an eyebrow in response. "They don't smell bad do they?"

"W-what no, it's just odd that you'd even consider using those." Blaze crosses her arms. "Considering where they've been."

Sonic shrugs in response and begins wrapping his other arm in the white fabric and then does the same with each of his legs and feet. "Hey, you have to work with what you got. Now, you ready to do this?"

"Of course, let's get this party started!" The feline emphasises her chant, by smashing her two fists together and taking an attack position.

"Lame,"

~Elsewhere~

A certain pink party pony spits out a mouth full of popcorn. "Hey!"

While another cyan pegasus trots next to a giant chalkboard. "Alright everypony, it looks like Bursyamo had stopped having her little tantrum. Place your bets. Cmon, who's feeling lucky?"

~***~

Back at the Golden Oaks Library, the projection of Cadence glances at the 'offensive literature' that chased Spike away. Currently in Twilight's magic grasp.

"I have to admit, the resemblance is uncanny, but I assure you. That is not Velvet."

"I certainly hope not. What would my father think if he knew that his wife; my mother was posing in some trashy magazine?" Twilight asks as she sits before the projection of the Princess.

Cadence takes another glance at the magazine before turning away. "He'd probably think it was hot."

"Ew, gross!" The lavender mare shouts as she gags at the comment. "That is so messed up!"

The princess chuckles at the unicorn's outburst. "I was only kidding, Twilight. I'm sure your father and the rest of the family would be furious. If they thought Velvet was doing something, so shameful." Cadence then shrugs and turns her attention back towards the floating magazine. "Besides this mare's cutie mark doesn't match and plus she looks way too young to have had kids." She then looks back at Twilight. "I think I know who this imposter is, turn the page."

Twilight complies with the request and uses her magic to flip to the next page of the mysterious magazine.

"Let see here, ah-ha!" The alicorn shouts as she motions to the next article. "The mysterious 'Imitateur' or copycat is an up and rising model in Prance. Is best known for her ability to take on the guise of any mare or stallion (should the latter have a semi feminine-ish like appearance.)" Both Cadence and Twilight shrug at the claim, but say nothing. "Initially thought to be a Changeling, Imitateur proved this false. When she was able to replicate the appearance of her accuser (later found out to be a jealous ex-lover) With the use of some makeup and a small amount of magic. Imitateur has stated on numerous occasions that all she needs is, but a glance at somepony and a moment to take on that pony's appearance. Should she wish to do so."

The lavender mare frowns as the princess finish reading the imposter's bio. "Well, that's rather disturbing. Knowing that a pony can look like another pony with such ease."

"It get's worse," Cadence adds as she attempts to (poorly) hold back a fit of laughter. "Take a look at this."

Twilight snatches away the magazine away. "Let me see," The mare's eyes widen as she glances at the magazine. "What the buck? That looks exactly like me!" She proclaims as the 'offensive literature' falls to the floor. Right to the page of a picture of said mare in a rather suggestive pose.

"I'll see to it that Imitateur stops impersonating any pony we know." The alicorn says with a solum tone.

The lavender mare tilts her head. "Can you do that? What I mean, isn't it illegal for even someone of the crown to hinder publication of something?"

"Normally yes," Cadence confirms with a nod. "However, if said article is seen as offensive or false. Then it's not looked down upon if I were to have it retracted." The alicorn waves her right hoof in a circular motion. "However, it's still frowned upon to some degree, so I'll probably just ask the publisher nicely, not to print have this 'copycat' not to do any more images of known heroes and their family's or friends."

"Please do,"

"Now on to more pressing matters," The alicorn begins with a smirk. "Who's the stallion that you asked out? Do I know him?"

Twilight frowns at the princess's question. "You're asking me this now?"

Cadence shrugs. "Why not, it seems like a better time than any." The alicorn then grins mischievously. "So spill it, I've been dying to know."

"It's..."The mare takes a deep breath to steady her nerves. "It's Sonic alright."

The grin vanishes from the Princess's face. "Sonic? I did know you two were even talking. You know given what happened last time we spoke."

"Well, a lot can happen in two months." Twilight counters. "We ended up having a long talk, and it turns out he already knew I had panicked when confronted about my feelings and...well said some things that I didn't mean." The mare finishes as face turns several shades of red.

"Oh-ho, cute and smart. It I wasn't already married to Shining. I'd get me a piece of that action."

"Cadence!" Twilight snaps. "How could you say something like that? I thought you loved my brother." The mare pouts as her ears fold back.

The alicorn lets out an amused giggle. "I was only kidding. I love my husband very much and would never even think of being unfaithful to him. You have to learn to take a joke." Cadence finishes as she frowns at the young unicorn.

"I know, just the thought of you even considering such a thing. Just made me lose it." The mare turns away and whispers to herself. "Besides, if you were serious, I really wouldn't have a chance with him."

Cadence leans forward. "I'm sorry I didn't catch that last part. What did you say?"

"Nothing," The mare grumbles. "I didn't say anything."

"Well ok then, did you have a place in mind at least? I know of a few that..."

"Way ahead of you," Twilight proclaims with a smug grin. "It's...."

Whatever the unicorn was about to say, is cut off as explodes in the distance. Shaking the Library and knocking Twilight off her hooves.

"What the buck was that!"

Next Chapter Preview:

Rainbow Dash: "Ok, I take back everything I just said. That was awesome!"

Twilight:"Once you've eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth"

Pinkie Pie:"I have no words to what just happened."

Cheerily: "Now theirs no need to panic."

Rumble: "EVERYPONY PANIC!"

Button Mash: "Game Over Man, GAME OVER"

Through the Fire and Flames

Author's Note

Thing have come to a boil as things really start to heat up. Will the winds of change grant our hero the push he needs to overcome this new obstacle or will he be overcome by the lady of fire? Find out next time on the next exciting chapter of Battle for Equestria!

A/N: Phew, another chapter done and many more to go. For those of you wondering, i tried a new technique as well as a new program to write this. Since My MS Word decided to stop working properly - DAMN YOU WINDOWS 10!

Anyway, let me know what you think in the comment section below.

All characters belong to their respective owners.

Through the Fire and Flames

Through the Fire and Flames

Chapter: 19

Through the Fire and Flames

~Earlier that day~

As the final bell chimes over the local school house, fillies and colts begin to file in and fill the small classroom. Several still engaged in conversation with one another, as they take their seats in one of the many desks that line room.

"Alright class, quiet down. That was the final bell; it's time for class to begin." A bubbly pink pony announces as she emerges from behind her desk.

The class lets out a collective sigh and drops down in their desks; silently hoping that their actions can somehow persuade the pink mare into delaying the start of class.

"Oh hush," The school teacher replies in a firm tone as her chipper demeanor disappears for a moment. Only to return in force as she continues to address the less than enthusiastic group. "The day has just begun, and most of you are already seem less than thrilled to be here."

" Because, it's so boring," A young colt drones as he lets his head fall face down on his desk. Several others mutter in agreement as they sink further into their seats.

Cheerilee stops a hoof on the wooden floor; making and a loud crack and a collective flinch from the complaining students.

"That's enough; we have much to cover today and...." The mare is cut off by another groan from the class. "And we don't have a lot of time to spare. She finished forcibly through clenched teeth. "However, before we begin I'd like to introduce you all to some new students, all the way from Canterlot that will be joining us today."

A certain pink filly flinches in response to the announcement, while several others snicker at the snooty mare's reaction or comment on her actions earlier that day.

"Silence!" Cheerilee commands as she stomps her hoof onto the floor once more. "Now then," She turns towards the now slightly open door. "You can come in now."

As if on command, the large door swings open and small dark brown female unicorn with a gray and white mane/tail enters and stops before the class of onlookers. The filly then bows daintily and addresses the group.

"Hello every pony, my name is..."

"Oh great, another blank flank."Diamon Tira interrupts.

The class turns towards the snooty pink filly and then back towards the black unicorn; noticing her lack of a mark.

Cheerilee steps in to berate the troublesome filly, but stops as said foal is abruptly lifted from her desk; along with her usual cohort and flung into the air.

"Hey, put me down!" Diamond Tira shrieks as she spun around in a small circle.

"Me too!" Silver Spoon pleads as she feverishly attempts to keep her glasses on her face.

Everyone slowly turns to the recently insulted filly; who's now sporting a smug expression on her face as she uses her magic to levitate the two annoying ponies around the classroom.

"Holy crap!" Apple Bloom proclaims, as she and the others watch as their tormentors are flung around the room.

Scootaloo burst out laughing and falls to the floor, while Sweetie Belle looks up at her own horn and pouts.

Several other students mirror the Crusader's actions by either joining in on small orange pegasus's laughing fit or staring at what's before them in utter disbelief.

Cheerilee steps before the new filly and looks down at her with a mix of anger and mild amusement. "Put them down this instant." She commands with a voice of authority.

The order goes ignored by the filly as she continues to fling the two around the room.

"I will not ask you again," Cheerilee adds with a stern tone.

"Well, if you insist," The filly replies in a soft voice.

No longer being held by the young unicorn's magic. The two fillies fall to the floor; taking out their desks in the process.

"Ow," The unicorn lets out a shriek as she's struck in the back of the head. Then turns to her attacker with a surprised look.

A very annoyed Butterscotch stands before the dark filly; her hoof still raised from her previous action.

"What did you do that for?"

The pegasus scowls at the unicorn before replying. "Toffee, we talked about this." Butterscotch begins with a stern tone. "You weren't going to resort to magic unless it was a last resort."

"B-but they called me a 'blank flank.' A-and then laughed at me." The filly now known as Toffee whines as she gestures to the two antagonizers; who have now returned to their hooves. With the help of a very apologetic Cherrilee.

"Who did?" The young mare begins as she follows Toffee's outstretched hoof. "Oh...them." She drones before continuing. "I ran into 'those two' this morning. The one with the glasses ran away when the other one started shooting off her mouth." Butterscotch then laughs as Dimond Tira gives Silver Spoon a sour look. "With friends like that, who needs enemies."

"That is enough!" Cheerilee snaps as she approaches the two fillies. "I will not allow either of you to continue to bully my students." Her eyes then narrow. "Canterlot elitists or otherwise."

Toffee grins at the infuriated mare."Oh, don't lie, Girl Scout! That MUST have been catharsis by proxy! Those two will now think twice about messing with another pony, after today."

Butterscotch back hoofs the back of the snarky filly; inciting a small yelp as she leaps forward in response. "What is wrong with you? I agree that there both jerks, but that was a bit much."

"Hey!" Dimond Tiara snaps. " Do either of you know who my father is? He'll have you both ran out of town when he hears about this."

The young pegasi slowly turns to the pink filly and gives her a flat look before turning back to the black unicorn. "Father was looking forward to getting away from Canterlot. How do you think he'll feel when he hears that you got kicked out of school on your first day and we to move again?"

"Wait, hold on, you two are related?" A young colt asks as he practically leaps onto his desk. "How is that possible? Considering that one of you is a..."

"It's through marriage, you idiot!" Dimond Tiara replies with a harsh tone as she turns back to the two troublesome fillies. "And I'm not done talking to you two. I will not be ignored. You both will...what the..."

Whatever was about to be said is abruptly cut off as the entire room shakes; sending the bratty filly tumbling onto the floor.

"WHAT WAS THAT?" A white colt shouts as he adjusts a propeller beanie on his head. "I felt like an earthquake."

"Alright everypony, no pony panic" Cherrilee replies in an assuring tone as she attempts to maintain order.

"EVERYPONY PANIC!" A filly screams as she dives under her desk; sending the class into a frenzy.

Scootlaoo's ears perk up as springs up from her desk and then turns to Apple Bloom. "Wait, didn't you say Sonic and Blaze were doing some training thing at the quarry today?" She tilts her head. "Isn't that why you sis told us to get right to school?"

"Ah reckon so," The farm pony muses as she taps a hoof on her chin. "Sis was rather adamite bout' us not goin' oft ah beaten path this morning."

The once frenzied class abruptly stops and lets out a collective 'squee' before making a break for the door. With many commenting on wanting to see a certain blue hedgehog fight. While a few, question a familiar feline's pyrokinesis abilities.

Cheerily makes an attempt to stop the rebellious fouls, but trails off as everyone lets out a collective shriek as there repealed back into the room; some smashing into each other, while others only tumble backward and land in various positions.

The school teacher stared blankly at her now fallen class in shock; the mare stands frozen in place while attempting to process what just happened. Who or what could have caused this and why? More questions begin to form in her mind, but abruptly cease as a small groan from a gray colt snaps Cheerily out of her stupor and back to reality.

"Oh my goodness, is everypony alright?" The mare exclaims as she starts to help a fallen student to their hooves.

"Ow, I think I broke..." Rumble begins as he tries to roll to his but then stops as he notices a certain orange pegasus clinging to his torso. "Nevermind, I'm good." He finishes as he looks down Scootaloo; who smiles sheepishly in response.

Button Mash then springs up; missing his trademark attire. "Where's my copter hat? Has Anypony seen it?" The young colt exclaims as he frantically looks around the classroom. "It couldn't have gone far; I just had it."

"It's over here," Silver Spoon reluctantly replies as she holds up the aforementioned hat atop of her right foreleg.

The colt zips over and snatches the item away from the gray filly and places it on his head. "Oh thank you, thank you, thank you." He adds while giving a surprised Silver Spoon a warm hug. Diamond Tira opens her mouth to protest but says nothing as her friend simply shrugs and pats the over efficient colt on his back.

As the others rise from a floor. A certain dark unicorn lets out a heavy sigh and shakes her head. "Did everyone get hit with the stupid stick or something?" The filly lets out another sigh. "You're supposed to run away from danger, not towards it!"

"Toffee! That's no way to talk to your....." Cheerily berates, but trails off as she notices the area around the door shimmer a bit before returning to normal. The mare slowly blinks and then shakes her head, as if to dispell the strange occurrence before her.

"I suppose I should have told you all, that I'm a former student of 'Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns.'" The filly says in a small voice. "And had things gone differently, I may have been one of the top magic users of my class." Toffee adds with a nervous laugh.

Everyone in the room suddenly ceases any conversation and go silent in response to the unicorn's sudden confession and slowly turns to said filly; with various degrees of shock and envy.

~ * * * ~

A small, but slowly growing group of spectators line the cliff edge surrounding the small quarry. Many of the onlookers watch the event before them, unfold with eager anticipation. While others watch as if it's the 'most interestingly thing' they've ever seen. And a select few watch with interest, but also seem keen on clinching a brightly colored ticket in their hooves.

And then there's are a handful of others, trying to sell some poorly made t-shirts or other types wears that they obviously made on site with whatever they had on hand, be it either a felt tip marker or pack of color crayons.

However, the growing audience or the rather obnoxious vendors go unnoticed by the two occupying the limestone quarry. Or at least they were, till one of them abruptly shouted at the top of their lungs.

"EVERYPONY! LOOK OUT!" A pale green female pegasus shouts as she haphazardly discards her 'officially made' headwear and hits the dirt.

Several onlookers raise a brow or tilt their heads in response to the hysterical mare. A tan stallion snarks at the pony and is about to follow with a snide comment, but trails off as something massive crosses his field of vision.

"GET DOWN!"

The spectators heed the stallion's warning; hitting the deck just as a shockwave rattles the landscape. Followed by a massive wave of flames, that strikes the cliffside.

~ * * * ~

"You're too slow! A cocky voice boasts a familiar blue hedgehog can be seen standing near the rock face with an amused smirk on his face.

"You're gonna have to do better than-Whoa!" Sonic's follow up remark is cut short as flaming projectile rockets towards his; forcing the hedgehog to jump out of the way,

With an amused chuckle, Sonic returns to his feet and brushes himself off. "Oww, testy."

"Don't tempt me, hedgehog." A familiar voice growls from within the rapidly clearing cloud of smoke and dirt. "One of these days, you'll run out of witty quips or nonsensical banter."

Sonic grins and crosses his arms. "Really? And what makes you think t-that..." The hedgehog trails off as the dust clears; revealing a sizable fissure now running up the side of the cliff face.

"W-what...H-how?" The hedgehog mutters to himself.

The Sol guardian's salute is then seen rising from the ground and standing at her full height; prompting Sonic to flinch slightly.

"Curious?" The felines inquiries with a smooth tone as she advances towards him. "You look like you have something to say."

"A few things if you must know, but I have to ask," Sonic replied as shaky hand points to the newly formed addition to the northern side of the quarry. "How'd you do that?"

The smug expression vanishes from the feline's face. "Oh that, I just channeled a flame into my right hand before impact. It was only a fluke, or I guess dumb luck that I managed to take out a portion of the cliffside.

Sonic wipes his brow with the back his hand and lets out a relieved sigh. "You had me going for a minute there, Blaze. I thought you had gained super strength or something." The hedgehog then chuckles. "Now that would have been kind of cool."

The feline lets out a small laugh. "Yeah, it would be pretty sweet. Unforchinatly that's not the case."

"So, you ready to get back to it?" The hedgehog inquires as he performs a shoulder stretch on his right side.

"Only if you lay off the lame quips." Blaze grumbles.

~ * * * ~

Back at the Gold Oaks Library, a stunned Twilight stares blankly into her telescope with a slacked expression.

"Wow," The mare exclaims to no in particular.

"D-did she just punch a hole into that cliffside?" The projection of Cadence mutters as she too stares into her own telescope; admit a bit more complex than the unicorn's rudimentarily one.

Twilight looks away and rubs her eyes with the side of her hoof before responding. "To be fair, the quarry was abandoned due to structural integrity issues on the northern side."

"Which means?" The princess asks softly.

"It means that it was unsafe and probably would have caused a significant portion of the pit to crumbled if any pony had tried to expand the excavation site in that direction." The mare then sighs. "Which is a shame, since 'apparently' there is a massive deposit of precious stones in the area."

"Still, you have to admit it was pretty cool," Cadence adds as she turns to the lavender mare.

"Indeed,

~ * * * ~

On the eastern side of the quarry, a sizable group of speculators continues to watch the battle unfold below eagerly. Some even comment on the feline's previous actions with both fear, amazement, and shock.

Meanwhile, a certain butter yellow pegasus appears on the scene and attentively scans the area to see what all the commotion is about or to a find a familiar face. The mare grins as she spots the multicolored mane of her speedy friend.

~ * * * ~

"Alright, everypony you guys on the ground needs to stay back. That last blast nearly took out the first two rows." The cyan mare begins as she ushers several onlookers to take a few steps back.

"Aren't ya being a bit over cautious?" A Persian blue pegasus quips with a slight smirk.

Rainbow Dash turns to the young mare with an unamused expression. "I don't expect you to understand Cloudchaser, but if somepony gets hurt, then we have to call this whole thing off."

"Why are we doing this 'thing' anyways?" Another pony inquiry as a pale lavender pegasus appears donning an oversized pink bow. "I mean did they ask for an audience or was this meant to me a private get together?"

"What are you getting at, Filter?" The cyan mare grumbles with a hint of annoyance in her voice.

The mare frowns. "Exactly what I just said, did Sonic or Blaze ask you set up this little shindig or did you just do it to collect a quick bit?"

A nervous chuckle leaves the cyan mare's lips. "W-well you see, I just..."

"Hey, Rainbow Dash!" A voice shouts from within the crowd.

"Oh hey, look at that I'm needed elsewhere." The Pegasus claims in a rushed tone as she takes flight and heads towards the direction of the shout. " I gotta go, bye."

Cloudchaser and Filter give change. "Come back here; I'm not done talking to you!" The pink bowed pegasus shouts as she flys after the suspicious mare.

~ * * * ~

Flying over a small group gathered around a standing chalkboard. The cyan pegasus scans the area briefly before spotting a particular pink party bouncing in place; waving to the mare with an enthusiastic wave.

"Hey Pinky, what's up? Dash inquires as she lands near the energetic pony. "Ready to finally make a wager on this?" The mare adds with a coy expression.

"Oh no, I'm not here to make any bets." The party pony replies with a dismissive wave. "But I know some pony who does."

"Who?"

Pinky Pie side steps before replying. "Fluttershy,"

Said mare lets out a small 'eep' after being revealed and ducks behind party pony.

"Fluttershy wants to 'bet' on something?" The cyan pegasus asks with barely contained laughter. "What, do you want to put your bits down on 'them having fun time and not getting hurt?'" Rainbow Dash's composure crumbles and she falls to the ground laughing. "B-because that s-ship has sailed."

The party pony rolls her eyes in responses and then raises her hoof. As if about to strike down the rude mare, but is stopped by Fluttershy, who slowly shakes her head.

Having finished with her laughing fit, Rainbow Dash rises to her hooves and wipes away a stray tear. "But seriously why are you here? If it's to watch the fight, I think you just missed the best part." The mare leans in closer. "Blaze just punched a hole in solid granite."

"Sandstone," Pinkie Pie corrects.

The cyan mare rolls her eyes. "Whatever," She then turns back towards Fluttershy; peaking from behind Pinkie Pie. "Are you here to bet one of these two?"

"One both actually,

Dash tilts her head. "Both? Uh Fluttershy, you not going to make any bits if you bet on both of them. You might break even, but not much more than that."

"It's not for either one to win, but to..."

"What, both lose?" The cyan mare interrupts. "I don't get why you'd..."

"Oh, like a tie. If neither of them wins, but neither loses." The party pony finishes with an enthusiastic bounce.

Rainbow Dash chuckles for a moment. "Ok Fluttershy, if that's what you want to do. I'm not going to stop you, but I must warn you. The chances of that happening are slim to none." The mare holds out a hoof. "So, what do you got?"

Fluttershy reaches off screen and pulls out a hefty bag of bits and drops them in front of the now awestruck pegasus.

"Whoa, where did you get all that? " Dash inquires with a low tone.

"Don't worry about it, now are you going to accept it or not." The caretaker replies in a flat tone.

With dexterity only comfortable to Pinky Pie, the cyan mare flings the satchel over her shoulder and trots over to the caulk board; writing something on it before setting the bag with the others and turning back towards the mares.

"Alright then, that's that. Enjoy the show."

~ * * * ~

Before the ever growing crowd. The two offworlders continue to do battle with each other, with a certain hedgehog maintaining control of said fight as the Sol guardian continues to makes a futile effort in striking a solid hit.

"What's the matter, Blaze? I thought you were going to get serious?" Sonic mocks as he dodges an onslaught of quick strikes from the increasingly frustrated feline. "Stop holding back on me."

Blaze attempts to land a roundhouse kick to the face of the smirking hedgehog but misses he sidesteps out of the way. "I'm not holding back, you insufferably hedgehog." The feline growls as she attempts to leg sweep with similar results.

"It's lucky you're cute, Blaze. Because you're a horrible liar." Sonic quips as he dodges a spinning ax kick. "I've seen you move at least twice this fast back in Sol.

Being called out on her folly; the feline lets out an angry roar and launches a wave of flames towards the unsuspecting hedgehog; Who is knocked back, as he's only able to deflect part of the attack. While replying Twilight's enchantment spell and the Sol guardians, former body wraps to absorb the rest of the impact.

"What the hell? I thought we agreed on to not using extreme flames." Sonic snaps as he lowers his arms. "This spell and wraps only do so much."

The felines expression morphs to one of concern as she rushes towards the hedgehog. "I'm so sorry, Sonic. Are you alright?"

Said hedgehog adjusts one of the wraps on his right hand. "I'll live,"

Blaze frowns as the short reply. "I didn't mean to..."

"What's up with you?" Sonic snaps, cutting the feline off. "You ask me to help you train, which I do. Without so much as a second thought." He then crosses his arms. "But this, whatever it is that you're doing it not helping either of us. I think that we need to call this off until you get your head back into the game." The hedgehog adds as he turns around to leave.

"Wait," The feline shouts as she runs after the hedgehog.

Sonic stops and turns to the Sol Guardian with an unamused expression. "What?"

Blaze balls her hands into fists and stares down at the ground. "While I will admit that I have been holding back slight, in fear of not hurting you. I've also been having difficulties with another matter."

The hedgehog tilts his head. "And what would that be?"

"This ridiculous attire," The feline replies; louder than intended as she gestures to her clothing. Blaze follows with a low tone as if trying balance out her outburst. "Rarity, bless her heart for trying to help out. But I believe she's done more harm than good this time."

"What do you mean?"

The Sol guardian looks around briefly before responding though clenched teeth. "It's too tight."

Sonic lets out an amused laugh. "Of course it is, you've been wrapping yourself up like a mummy for creator knows how long. So, she probably made the outfit conform to measurements she got while you were wearing that sarashi wrap."

"She knew about the body wrap. So, this outfit was made with 'breathing room' in mind." The feline replies in a hushed whisper. "The issue is that the material doesn't move or flex as I requested. I believe it was made in a rush and not thoroughly thought out."

"Leave it to Rarity to make something fashionable, but not practical."

"Still, it's restriking my movement and..."

"Well if it's not working for you, take it off," Sonic interrupts.

her telescope profusely. "I-I don't think that's a possibility."

"You're wearing something underneath right? Or do you need to change back into your other clothes?"

Blaze grabs her tail and begins to fiddle with it. "Yes, I did have enough foresight to wear something underneath, in case this outfit proved to be too 'insolated.' However, I fear that it may be a tad inappropriate."

"C'mon, it can't be that bad."

"It's uh," The feline leans closer and whispers the rest into the hedgehog's ear.

Sonic's eyes widen. "Oh, I can see that being a tad more revealing than you're used to." He scratches the back of his head. "I uh guess if you want. You could go change back into your other outfit."

Blaze shakes her head. "Not possible, it's an older outfit and was already rather 'restricting.' Even while as you put it so colorfully; I was wrapped up like a mummy. So, that option is out."

The hedgehog begins tapping his chin. "There has to be a way around this. Did you explain to Rares what you planned to use the outfit for and what it needed to have?"

"Of course, I asked that it be form fitting, but also allow free range of movement. I was very clear on this." The feline exclaims and then lets out a sigh. "I guess that was conveniently left out to be more 'fabulous.'" She adds, with a dramatic flair of her arms.

"Ok, I'm sorry, but that last part was funny." The Sol guardian glares at the hedgehog. "What? It was. But, if I know Rares, she would never skip a client's request. No matter how 'garish' it may be."

The feline lets out an amused giggle. "Fair enough, but how would she be able to hide any things like that." Blaze begins to pat herself down as if trying to find some secret pocket or zipper to resolve her issue. Before letting out, an annoyed grown. "Ugh, forget it. I have a better idea."

Sonic tilts his head. "What's that?"

With one swift motion, the Sol guardian's nibble hands reach for the zipper of the cumbersome jacket and begins to unzip it.

"Oh, I like where this is going." The hedgehog comments with a smirk

"Shut up," Blaze grumbles as she flings open the coat and lets out a soft moan and shutters. "Oh my,"

"Feel better?" Sonic asks with an amused laugh.

"You have no idea," The feline purrs.

"Hey, I got stuck wearing really tight pants a while back. So I can sort of emphasize with you."

"I bet," Blaze replies as she removes her coat; revealing a sleeveless white crop top underneath. And hangs the restrictive attire onto a low hanging branch. "you ready?

"You betcha, but" Sonic points to charm on his necklace; as it begins to pulsate at slow intervals. "We don't have much time; this is starting to run out."

"Well then, what are we waiting for?" The feline asks with new found enthusiasm.

~* * *~

"Very clever, I can see why so many have taken a fancy to him." The projection of Cadence mutters as she continues to watch the battle through her telescope.

Twilight looks away from her own telescope and back towards the princess. "What do you mean?"

The projection gestures towards the direction of the quarry. "Don't you see it, even when Sonic's trying not to, he brings out the best in others."

"I don't get it,"

Cadence turns to the mare and points at her telescope. "Just watch what's going on down there. In a matter of a few moments, he has made that feline...Blaze was it?" Twilight nods. "Stopped second guessing herself and fight to her full potential."

Twilight frowns in response to the alicorn's statement and goes back to watching the fight through her telescope. "I don't see what you're getting..."

The mare trails off as she is now watching a very different battle than what she just saw a few moments ago. Rather than it being the one-sided fight as it was before, both of the combatants seem to be now evenly matched.

Twilight lets out as small laugh as she watches an over confident Sonic get knocked to the side as he attempts to taunt the bermise cat. "I see what you mean. Maybe it's just that Sonic wants to see us at our best. Or maybe he just likes teasing us and knows which buttons to press."

Cadence laughs at the unicorn's cheeky comment. "Maybe it's a little bit of both. You have your work cut out for you, Twilight. Just look at everypony down there. Sonic just made little miss fancy pants loosen up and let her mane down. That's not going to go unnoticed."

"You're right," The mare stomps her hoof. "Darn it, what am I going to do?" She adds while simultaneously beginning to panic.

Unbenownced to either of them. Something large falls from beneath the wooden walkway and falls into the bushes.

"Relax Twilight; I was only messing with you. I'm sure you'll be okay.

"I hope you're right, the last thing I need is..." Twilight trails off. "Wait do you hear a buzzing noise?"

"Buzzing? I don't hear any...oh buck!"

The mare's head snaps towards the princess's. "W-what, What is it?"

"R-right behind you." Cadence whimpers.

Twilight turned around just as something vast and angry filled her vision. "OH, NO! NOT THE BEES! NOT THE BEES! AAAAAHHHHH! OH, THEY'RE IN MY EYES! MY EYES! AAAAHHHHH! AAAAAGGHHH!"

~* * *~

Having delivered another successful strike. The Sol guardian knocks the hedgehog back. Whom; despite being able to deflect most of the impact; is send skidding backward in a three-point stance.

"See, what did I tell you? It get's a whole lot more fun once you take the kid gloves off." Sonic boasts as he lowers her arms and returns to a standing position.

"I admit, I was skeptical of you're the suggestion. However, it seems I was incorrect in my assumption." Blaze replies as she places an arm her right shoulder and begins rotating her free arm in a bent position.

"Great, we're just getting started. Once we..uh oh." The hedgehog trails off as he notices the pendant around his neck rapidly start blinking. "Looks like we only have a few secs till it's out. One last attack?

"One last attack,"

Taking a ready stance, the two fighters explode from their positions at each other at a blinding speed.

~ * * * ~

"What are they doing?" A particular cyan mare inquires as she pears down the cliff side.

"Oh, I know." Pinky Pie announces as she starts jumping in place. "EVERYPONY, HIT THE DECK!"

The spectators begin to panic, but most obey the party pony and take over. Except for Rainbow Dash, who gives the mare an odd look.

"Pinky, what are you.." The rest of the mare's question is cut short as a shockwave tears through the surrounding area; kicking up a huge cloud of sand and dirt. Forcing the few who didn't heed the party pony's warning to shield their eyes. Just as a certain hedgehog and feline tumble backward end over end. Till finally coming to a stop a few meters away from each other.

"Is everypony alright?" Pinky asks as she springs to her hooves and looks around; spotting Rainbow Dash still standing in the same spot as before. "Dashie?

"I don't believe it," The mare explains as she tries to wipe away some of the sand from her face.

"Believe what?" Pinky inquires as she springs to the weather pony's side. "Oh, are they ok?"

Fluttershy springs from her hiding place. "Is some pony hurt? The mare springs into action but stops short just as the particular sound reaches her ears.

"Wahoo, that was awesome."

"Yahoo,"

Just as fast as the two had been knocked down. Both were now on their feet. Well, Sonic was on his feet and helping Blaze to her's before anyone knew what was going on.

"Hey, you up for some lunch? I have a real hankering for something different. You wanna come?" The hedgehog asks as he helps the feline to her feet.

"I would like that, it sounds lovely,"

Next Chapter Review:

Blaze: "This is certainly unexpected."

Gilda: "Well, well, well, look what the cat dragged in."

Sonic: "This is going to get a whole lot worse before it gets better."

Sanguis Rose: "There is an old Griffon saying; "You can't put a price on honor." Well..Maybe the offer was too low."

Unexpected Company

Unexpected Company

Unexpected Company

"C'mon, Fluttershy," A certain cyan mare shouts with a commanding tone. "You know that I'm supposed to get a 20 percent cut of that. Right?"

The animal caretaker abruptly stops and gives the pegasus a particular look. "Really? Let's see where it says Rainbow Dash gets a portion of the winnings." She says coyly fishing out a ticket from a small satchel on her back. Angel Bunny suddenly emerges clutching a brightly colored piece of paper in his paws.

"Thank you, Angel." The pegasus coos as she grabs the ticket with the tip of her right wing. The bunny grumbles something intangible and disappears back into the pack; prompting a few nearby spectators to give the mare an odd look.

"W-what?" The pegasus studders. "I was going to town, and he wanted to come. The poor dear got tired and wanted to take a nap." She coos and then shrugs. "I guess it's pretty comfortable in there."

"So, what does it say?" A nearby pony asks."

"Oh right," Fluttershy holds the ticket up and examines it. "Let's see here; all bets are final, no refunds, you can't collect your winning if you don't have your ticket. All injuries sustained during or after can't be held accountable. Yadda yadda." The mare then looks up at an eager Rainbow Dash. "Nope, I don't see anything here about giving you a 20 percent cut or anything for that matter." She adds with a coy smirk.

"Hey, let me see that." The cyan pegasus exclaims as she attempts to grab the ticket.

"Ah, ah, ah, I can't allow you to do that, Dashie." Pinky Pie comments as she stomps onto the mare's tail; preventing her from lunging at the ticket and instead falls flat on her face.

Rainbow Dash rolls onto her side and spits out a mouthful of dirt. "Hey,"

"We all know what you were going to do." New voice chimes in as a light blue Pegasus with a white mane trots next to the group. Pulling a cart with something massive in it; covered by a tarp.

"I knew something was up when you bolted like that." Another pony adds as new mare appears; with an appearance much like the first one. Except is donning an oversized pink bow; who is also pulling a cart with something large in it.

Rainbow Dash springs to her hooves and gives a long glance to the pony's surrounding her. "Ok guys listen; I was just kidding. Fluttershy gets to keep all the winnings. I was trying to recoup my losses is all. Renting this stuff ain't cheap. You all know that right?"

"Oh Dashie, you so silly." Pinky Pie chimes in as she wraps forelegs around a now nervous pegasus. "You borrowed that chalkboard from Twilight. Those tickets are left over from a raffle at Sugarcube corner." The party pony then taps her chin with a hoof. "Oh-oh, you didn't need to do any advertising. Since everypony, just kinda showed up to see what was going on."

The cyan mare gulps loudly and steps out of the party pony's embrace. "W-well yeah, but I had to take the day off of work to make sure this was possible." Dash studders. "A pony's got bills to pay, and we're in tough times right now."

"Didn't you already have the day off?" Cloud Chaser chirps as she adjusts one of her straps. "In fact don't you always get this day off every week."

Rainbow Dash freezes.

"Also, weren't you just bragging about picking up a new 'official' Wonderbolts flight suit from 'Wings and Tails' the other day?" Filter adds with a smug look.

The speedster forces down another lump in her throat. "Well, you see...WHAT THE BUCK IS THAT?" The mare shouts as she points to something in the distance.

On instinct everyone turns in the direction she's pointing at; allowing the lying Pegasus to slink away. Well except Pinkie Pie; who gives her an 'i'm watching you' gesture before she escapes.

"Dash, I don't see any..thing." Cloud Chaser comments as she turns around and notices a now missing pegasus. "Ugh, she ran away."

"Everypony after...." Filter begins but is cut off by a certain party pony.

"Oh, there will be no need for that," Pinky claims with a dismissive wave. "We know where she lives; we'll get her eventually.' She adds in a low tone and then promptly disappears in a flash of pink.

"Where did she..." A green mare begins, but stops and abruptly lets out a squeak as the party pony reappears pulling another cart; packed with more mysterious items.

"C'mon everypony, let's get this back to Fluttershy's before it gets too late."

"Thank you," The caretaker mutters from behind one of the carts. "Lunch is on me, you guys."

The three mare's cheer in unison and all simultaneously smack their hooves together.

~***~

On the southern end of town, two lone figures strut into the square. Both sporting haggard appearances, but also chatting amicably with each other. One being a particular blue hedgehog; who's now ditched the sports tape and is now carrying an over-sized duffle in their right arm. While the other is the Guardian of Sol; still doing her track suit, but has left the top part open' allowing the jacket to flap in the breeze or when she moves her arms.

"Well, that was fun." Blaze comments as she turns to her traveling companion.

"Yeah, we have to do that again," Sonic replied turning his gaze to the Burmese cat. "You still up for some lunch."

The feline gives a small nod. "Of course, but would you feel offended if I asked to postpone our departure for a while?" She asks tentatively. "I believe our current appearance is a tad..."

"Grubby?" Sonic finishes, cutting the feline with a smirk.

"I was going to say unsatisfactory, but that also works."

Sonic shrugs and shifts the bag to his left hand. "I was going to suggest the same thing." He then smiles as he gives the feline a once over. "We got a little messy playing in the mud didn't we?"

"There was mud?" Blaze inquires as she taps her chin with her index finger. "Now that I think about it, there was. Funny how one forgets such details when focused on something."

The hedgehog chuckles as he passes the feline the duffle bag. "Ok, I know that was important, but that was just adorable." He lets out another laugh. "Never change, Blaze." Sonic then summons his gold watch and flips it open and looks at it. "Anyway, let's meet at the fountain in, let's say an hour. Does that work for you?" He asks looks back up at the Sol Guardian.

"Y-yeah sure." The now blushing feline shudders as she almost drops her bag. "So, uh until then," She adds while turning on a heel and making her ways towards the library.

"Alright, I'll see you in a bit," Sonic adds as he gives the guardian and small wave and heads in the opposite direction.

~***~

"Crap, crap, crap!" A particular pegasus shouts as she bursts through the front door of her cloud home. "How does something like that happen?" Her eyes then narrow. "They were both in on it; there is no other possibility than that..."

The mare then smacks herself across the face with her right front hoof. "Get a hold of yourself, Rainbow. There's no way they were in on it. It was just dumb luck." She chuckles. "Yeah, just a fluke." Her expression then turns serious. "I gotta get out of here. Hide out for a while. They'll know where to find me if I stay here.

And just as fast as she arrived, the speedy pegasus departs to areas unknown.

"Dash, you home?" A familiar voice asks as certain blue hedgehog appears from a nearby cloud and walks through the open front door. "Must have been late for work or something this morning. She never leaves this open." Sonic comments as he walks through the doorway and looks around before shutting the door behind him.

"Yesh, what a mess. I'm gone for three days and this place gets trashed."

~***~

"I assure you, it's not a dance of courtship." The princess of love confirms to the trembling form of a badly stung Twilight. "It was just a sparring match nothing more."

"B-but what if it wasn't." The unicorn pouts as her ears droop.. "You saw the way they were acting after the event. Something is definitely going on with those two."

Cadence frowns at the shivering state of the mare. "You're never going to know for sure if you don't ask and that's not possible if you keep hiding like this."

Twilight looks up at the alicorn. "But I'm hideous," She then lightly kicks a small bowl filled with some strange green goop; causing some of it to spill out onto the floor. "Where's that stupid dragon when you need him. He's the only one that can activate this with his fire breath."

One of her eyes was almost swollen shut while the other one was only barely open. Most of her face was puffy and at least three times its hedgehog's size. While the rest of her body had large bumps where the bees had stung her; especially on her forelegs. Where she frantically tried to swat them way when her magic didn't work.

The princess cringes and forces a smile. "Oh come on now, it's not 'that' bad. You can barely notice it. You'll be fine."

A small smile appears on Twilight's lips. "Really?"

"Of course, would I ever lie to you?" Cadence replies with a small nod.

"By the creature, what happened to you?" A new voice exclaims, prompting everyone to turn toward a terrified feline.

Twilight turns to the projection of Cadence and scowls as the Sol Guardian drops her bag and runs towards the mare. "I told you,"

"Are you alright?" Blaze asks as she kneels down and cradles the unicorns face in her hands.

The mare smacks the felines hands away and takes a step back. "I'm all right,"

Blaze advances towards Twilight and examines her face once more. "You don't look 'fine.'" She replies with a hint of annoyance in her voice. "Let me help you if I can."

Twilight raises her hoof to smack her hands away but stops as she's interrupted by the princess. "You should let her at least try."

The feline looks up at Cadence's projection and then back towards the reluctant mare; slowly turning her head in her grasp.

"You said earlier that you had to wait till Spike came back because the ointment is heat activated. Why not have Blaze do it?"

Blaze slowly slides her hands away from Twilight's face. "I have never tried to use my flame for any medical application before. I'm not sure it will work."

"Come now What's the worst that could happen?" The princess replies passively with a wave of her hoof.

"Well for starters I could oh I don't know maybe melt Twilight's face." The feline replies harshly. "Or straight up burn her alive."

The alicorn and unicorn flinch at this, but then turn to each other and exchange a small nod.

"I trust you, Blaze," Twilight replies in a soft voice. "If anything starts going wrong, I'll let you know right away. So don't worry."

Blaze takes a deep breath and rises to her feet. "Very well, if you'll excuse me." She adds before exiting the room.

The sound of running water can be heard, followed by vigorously scrubbing. Twilight and Cadence exchange glances before turning back towards the doorway the feline went, though.

A few moments later, the Sol Guardian returns. No longer wearing the top part of her tracksuit or gloves; leaving only the bottom portion and an undersized shirt. Blaze lets out a heavy sigh and kneels down and looks at the unicorn. "Apologies Twilight, I didn't want to makes matters worse by causing an infection."

Twilight nods and smiles sweetly at the feline. "I appreciate it whenever you're ready." She says to a sitting position.

Small bits of fire ignite from felines hands; causing the mares to flinch slightly. Blaze then dips her hands into the bowl of the strange green paste and removes them; applying it to the worst areas first.

The mare attempts to lean out of the Guardian's reach but stops as a firm hand grabs her by the back of the neck. "I do not wish to cause you any harm, Miss Sparkle, but if you continue to keep moving around like that. I can't guarantee it won't happen." The feline says in a stern tone.

"Yeah stay still, Twilight." Cadence adds with a cheerful expression."

~***~

"Now if you look over here, I have just the thing to complement that lovely coat of yours." Ponyville's 'established' fashionista boasts as she levitates a roll of dark yellow fabric from a shelf. "It will be marvelous, simply marvelous."

"I hope you're right," A small red pegasus with a bright red bow and a dark mane and tail replies a she looks at the unicorn as she prances around the boutique. "My sisters have been on me for weeks to check this place out. Said since I was the 'oldest' I should be the one to see if it's any good or not." She lets out an annoyed scoff. "Lazy bums."

Rarity stops mid stride and turns toward the mare. "Oh don't be so harsh, I'm sure they just trust your opinion on fashion."

The mare rolls her eyes and crosses her forelegs across her chest. "Oh, if you only knew my sisters. You'd know that they just didn't want the responsibility."

"So, how are your sisters? I don't seem them much these days." The fashionista inquires as she examines several rolls of fabric.

"Meh, they're fine. Bubbles is the star of the school play and Buttercup is staying out of trouble for the most part anyway."

"And how about you, Blossom?"

The mare shrugs and leans back in her seat. "Alright I guess, been getting pestered by some recruiters from the School of Science in Phillydelphia."

Rarity sets the now dozen or so rolls of fabric near a dress dummy and trots towards the mare. "That's great news; I'm sure you'll do well over there."

"But that just means that I have to accept I'm not a kid anymore," Blossom grumbles as she slumps in her seat. "I'm just not ready to leave everything behind yet."

"Whoever said you had to do that?" The fashionista inquires as she rests a hoof on the mare's shoulder. "Just because you got accepted to one school, doesn't mean you have to take it." Rarity retracts her hoof and takes a few steps back. "What I mean is that don't rush into something you're not ready to do just yet. You have plenty of time to decide."

The mare smiles. "Thanks, Rarity."

"Don't mention it; now we really must be...oph!" The rest of the unicorn's sentence is cut off as a gust of wind blasts through the front door.

"What the buck was...that?" Blossom shouts from behind a raised wing and then trails off as she notices a strange creature holding the fashionistas in its arms.

"Good afternoon, Sonic." The unicorn says in a sing-along fashion. "For what do I owe the pleasure." She adds batting her eyelashes.

The hedgehog shrugs and adjusts his grip on the mare. "I dunno, just returning a favor."

Rarity raises an eyebrow. "A favor? I don't understand."

Sonic shifts the mare to his left arm and summons a small piece of paper. "Right here, 'one hug as payment for services provided."

The fashionista examines the parchment as she takes it with her magic. "I hate to break it to you Sonic, but I didn't write this." She then flinches. "That is to say; I'm not complaining about your payment methods, though."

Blossom frowns at the display of affection and turns away.

"What's eating you?" Sonic inquiries still maintaining his grip on the unicorn.

"I'm just wondering who wrote that if it wasn't Rarity."

"It was MEEEE!" An overly cheerful voice chimes in as Pinky Pie emerges from behind a coat rack.

"BUCK!" Blossom shouts as she falls out of her chair. "Where in Tartarus did you come from?"

"Blossom language," The Fashionista scolds as she gives the mare a sour look. Before turning to Pinky. "But I must ask, why did you feel the need to write such a note?"

The party pony gives the mare a dismissive wave. "Oh that's easy, you looked like you were having a real bummer of a day. So, I figured a big ole hug from Blue would cheer you up." The pony then hops in place. "It always works for me."

"Blue? Who is...?" The mare lets out an amused laugh. "Oh how very fitting."

"And let me guess, I'm blue." Sonic inquires flatly as Pinky Pie nods eagerly. "That's ironic coming from you."

Pinky tilts her head to the die. "How is that?"

"Because, your name is Pinky, duh." Blossom interrupts from her spot on the bench.

"Hey now, there's no need to be a jerk." The hedgehog scolds.

Blossom lowers her head and pouts. "Sorry."

Rarity turns to Sonic and smiles. "While I'd usually ask you not to assume that your unorthodox methods of 'cheer' are universal. However, I am pleased to say that this time it has worked swimmingly." The mare then gives the hedgehog and seductive smile. "Very swimmingly indeed."

"Then my work here is done, Bye everybody." The mare waves and then abruptly stops and looks a very confused Blosum. "Oh, I almost forgot." She removes a small package from her mane it to the pegasus. "This is for you."

Blossom looks at the strange item in her hooves. "What is this?"

The party pony shrugs. "I don't know; I was just told to give it to you." She then turns back towards Sonic and Rarity. "Don't get too burnt out on those. You still owe me one, Blue." Pinky adds as she disappears from once she came.

Blossom leaps off her chair and peers behind the coat rack, trying to locate the mysterious mare. "Where did she go? How'd she do that?"

"It's Pinky, and that's all you need to know," Sonic replies as he turns towards the confused mare.

"Quite,"

Despite the relaxing sensation of being held like a princess, the ever burning question plagues the designer's mind and prevents her from fully enjoys what her random, but well-meaning friend had set up for her.

"Now, it's not that I don't enjoy our little talks and what you're currently doing, but I must asks. What brings you to my quaint little shop? I doubt it was to thank me for helping out Blaze."

Sonic lets out a small chuckle and sets the mare back down on her hooves; much to her annoyance. "It's funny that you should mention that. I did want to talk to you about that."

Rarity tilts her head. "Oh, was there something wrong with the outfit?"

"Kind of, it's a little hard to explain without having a way to show you." Sonic reluctantly replies as he scratches the back of his head.

The mare gives him a small nod. "Say no more; I know exactly what you're talking about, "She then turns back toward Blossom; who is still intently staring at her present. "I'll be back in a moment. I hope you don't mind."

Blossom looks up a dull her package. "Oh, it's no problem. I'll just stay here...trying to figure out what's in this thing."

"Excellent. Hopefully, this shouldn't take long." The mare replies in a cheerful demeanor. "Come with me, Sonic." She adds motioning the hedgehog to follow.

~***~

"Just a little more and..done." The Guardian chimes as she removes her hands from a very green looking Twilight. Said is mare is covered from head to hoof in 'mysterious' compound that was in the bowl. Even her mane and tail have been given a strange green tint from it. Blaze rises to her feet and wipes her hands off on a nearby towel. "I think I got it all."

Twilight opens her eyes and looks around. "Did it work?" The mare then does a small hop. "Hey, I can see again, and the pain, it's gone. What was in that stuff anyway, Cadence?....Cadence?"

Both turn to an awestruck alicorn and one of the crystal guards standing nearby with a slack-jawed expression. "That was so hot." The princess comments as the stallion silently nod his head in agreement.

"CADENCE!" The unicorns shouts as she recoils and hides behind a now stunned feline. "WHAT THE BUCK?"

"You have a way with those hands of yours." The princess comments in a suggestive tone; ignoring the mare's outburst.

"I'll say," The guard adds he looks down at the felines hands.

Cadence turns her attention to the nearby guard. "Who let you in here?"

The guard stumbles backward before giving a shaky bow. "Apologies your highness, it was requested by Princes Armor that I check up on you and see how you were doing."

"Leave it to Shining to send a pony to do the job he should do." The alicorn says with a huff.

"Everything alright with you two?" The studious unicorn inquires as she peeks from behind Sol Guardian.

The princess gives the mare a dismissive wave. "Everything is fine, Twilight. Things have just been stressful since becoming rulers of the Crystal Empire." Cadence sighs. "We never seem to have time see one another. No pony said this was going be easy, but I never expected this."

"Ruling a nation or empire never is. There is no guide book to do this sort of thing, well not one that does you any good anyway." Blaze comments in a saddened tone.

Cadence smacks her front hooves together. "That's right; you are the ruler of a nation of your world aren't you? Twilight mentioned that during our last meeting." The alicorn smiles sheepishly. "Perhaps you can give me some pointers."

"Well, it there is nothing else then," The guard attempts to make a break for it, but inadvertently knocks off his helmet. Causing a massive burst of light to appear and a now stunned mare standing in the place where stallion once stood. "Oh no, not again."

Blaze recoils and starts walking away backwards. "Nope, nope, nope, I'm not going to ask." The feline announces as she grabs something from the closet and makes her way towards the exit. "I have things to do, and I've already spent too much time with this."

"What do you have a hot date or something?" The princess teases as the projection advances.

The feline stops in the rooms doorway and lets out a heavy sigh. "I wish." She says in a quiet tone and exits the room.

While a now enraged Twilight Springs to her hooves and stomps towards a now very fearful alicorn. "WHAT THE ACTUAL BUCK, CADENCE?"

~***~

"So as you can see, I did what I could in the time I was allowed." Rarity says as she gestures to a 'Blaze shaped' mannequin dressed in an alternative outfit. "It was already a challenge finding something to conform to shall we say her unique proportions."

"I know about the sashi wrap, Rares." Sonic replies as turns to the fashionista. "The biggest issue was that it was too constricting and limited movement."

The mare gasps and covers her mouth with a hoof. "Oh my, that wasn't my intention at all. The material used was meant to allow free ranges of movement and was also supposed to be durable. That is unless..." Rarity face hooves.

"What's wrong?"

Rarity lets out a heavy sigh and lowers her hoof. "I forgot to factor in extreme heat. Do to Blaze's shall we say unique physiology. She's already at a higher than average temperature. Add her pyrokinetic abilities into the equation, and the material will contract and shrink almost instantly."

"So, it was an oversight on your part?" The hedgehog inquires as he kneels down and places a hand on the mare's back.

The unicorn nods and lets out a heavy sigh. "Something I should have considered but was too swept up in making the outfit. That it must have been just overlooked."

Sonic glances at a nearby clock and then makes his way towards the door. "Well as long as we got that figured out. The next one hopefully won't have the same issues." He then gestures towards the exit with his thumb. "I gotta go do this thing; I'll see you later."

Rarity smiles and waves to the hedgehog. "You do your thing, Darling. I'll have a word with Mis Blaze on making more appropriate attire. To accommodate her more conflagration personality." "

The hedgehog chuckles as he passes by a very bored looking Blossom. "That's one way of putting it. I'll see you later." He then turns towards the mare. "sorry about that; I didn't know you guys were in the middle of something."

Blossom waves it off and gestures towards the door. "It's all good; you get out of here. Go take care of that 'thing.'"

Rarity giggles briefly at the exchange and starts making her way back towards the pegasus. Till something suddenly dawns on her and she trots after the exiting hedgehog.

"Wait," The mare exclaims as she holds out a hoof towards the hedgehog as he's about to leave.

Sonic stops and turns towards the mare."What's up?"

"I know it may seem in bad taste to ask, but I was wondering if you would like to join everypony at the spa later this week. How about this Thursday?" She smiles meekly tapping her front hooves together. "I was going to ask that you attend the local spa with others and myself as a form of repayment for the outfit I made for Blaze. But, I understand if..."

"Sure, I could use a little R and R," Sonic replies as he makes his ways towards the exit. "Thursday works, tell the others I'll be there."

A small grin appears on the fashionista's face as she watches the hedgehog leave. "Looks like you'll be joining us after all, Dash."

~***~

In the town's market square. A small fountain sets with ponies of several types milling around it. Until a sudden and abrupt gusts of wind blast past them; prompting them to shield themselves from what caused it. A small chuckle breaks the silence a certain blue hedgehog is seen standing near the structure.

"Sorry about that, I was running a bit late there."

The nearby ponies either shrug or nod their heads and continue to wherever they were going before the hedgehog's sudden arrival.

Sonic summons his pocket watch and flips it open. "Alright, right on time. I wonder when...."

"Sorry I'm late," A new voice shouts as a small gust of wind blasts through the square, and a very distraught feline is seen approaching the fountain. "I got tied up doing a few things." She adds with a small blush and uneasy demeanor.

"Kinky." Sonic quips with an amused smirk.

"Shut up!"

The hedgehog crosses his arms and approaches the Sol guardian. "To be honest, you're actually right on time. Did you have something to first or..."

"No, we can go now." Blaze interrupts as she runs a hand through her hair."

Sonic examines the feline for a moment before responding. "How many of those outfits do you have, Blaze?"

"Enough," She responses in a flat tone. "Now are you ready to go or what?"

"Yeah, just...Oh hey, I almost forgot. The hedgehog says with a loud snap of fingers. "Do you have any places this week?"

The feline furrows her brow. "I don't think so, why do you ask?

Sonic begins scratching the back of his neck. "Rares wanted to do a get together with everyone at the spa this Thursday. She asked if we wanted to go."

"Sure it sounds like fun. I've meant to check that place out for a while now." Blaze then smirks. "Now are you ready to do this?"

"Ready when you are," The hedgehog responses as he clears his throat. "Follow me." He adds before taking off in a blast of speed.

~***~

In the outskirts of an unknown town. Two blasts of wind make a quick stop before a massive wooden sign.

"Why are we stopping here?" The feline inquires as she looks up at the mile marker. "Town is still a ways ahead.

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle. "Funny story, when I was checking this place out a few months back. My arrival nearly caused the local guards to collectively shat themselves. So they asked me if I wanted to make any more visits. I should walk in the front gate not charge through it or leap over it."

The feline giggles into an open palm. "I can see that being an issue when they're not familiar with your abrupt and sporadic arrivals." Her expression turns serious. "This also gives us time to speak of a matter I wish to bring up with you."

"What's up, Blaze?" The hedgehog asks as he turns to the guardian. "Something wrong?"

"Yes, and no..." The feline lets out a heavy sigh. "There's no easy way of saying this. So, I'm just going to say it." She lets out another sigh."It's become rather apparent that you've been keeping everyone an arm's length; myself included. I believe I may know why, but I'd rather hear it from you."

Letting out a sad chuckle, Sonic abruptly stops and slowly runs a hand through his quills. "Is it really that obvious?" He then sighs. "Here I thought I was at least somewhat secretive about it." The hedgehog looks up at the guardian with a sad smile. "I know that some of my new friends here want to be more than just friends."

"What's stopping you?" Blaze asks with a hint of hopefulness in her voice.

The hedgehog grimaces. "Well, for starters. The end of probably a strong friendship." He then sighs. "You saw what happened the other night. Even a hug from Scratch set everyone off."

"To be fair, she did tackle you to the ground in front of everybody." The feline rebuts as her hopeful cheer begins to vanish. "I can't speak for the others, but I was more annoyed by her disregard for common decency and costume."

Sonic lets out a heavy sigh. "I've known Scratch since I got here and she's made it abundantly clear she just wants to be friends."

"Why?"

"Something about not wanting to ruin a good thing by getting involved with a friend." The hedgehog shrugs. "I guess she had some bad experience in the past and didn't it to happen again. I didn't actually pry, and she didn't seem too keen on sharing it with me."

Blaze knits her brow before responding. "That I did not know that, and I'm sure the others didn't either."

"See, that's why I can't get close to anyone here. Every time I do, everyone just ends up fighting with each other." The hedgehog adds with a dull tone. "Why am I so special?"

The feline snarls at the last comment and begins to stomp towards him angrily. "Sonic?"

The hedgehog looks up just as a gloved hand strikes him across the face; causing him to stumble backward.

"WHAT THE HELL, BLAZE? WHAT'D YOU DO THAT FOR!" Sonic shouts as he places a hand over the red hand print slowing forming on the right side of his face.

"You are an idiot." The felines replies in a stern tone. "You may not see it, but you are important to everyone here...to me. If it weren't for you, I'd probably be dead or suffering a fate much worse. I'm sure the others can say the same."

Blaze takes a few steady breaths before continuing. Even now, you look out for us. Help us when we need it. Bring light to a usually mundanes dreary day." She takes another shallow breath and continues.

"There is something I've wanted to say to you for so long. it's that I-I...that I s to say that...I." The feline lets out an annoyed groan as frown appears on her face and turns beat red. "You are important to me; I don't know what I would do without you I'd probably..."

The rest of the guardian's proclamation is cut short as she pulling into a warm embrace. Blaze blushes profusely and returns the gesture.

"Thank you," Sonic says in a soft voice. "You have no idea how much I needed to hear that."

Blaze freezes in place as the immediate action catches her off guard and her face turns a dark shade of red. The feline snapped out of her daze and began patting the hedgehog's back with her right hand. "I-I'll t-talk to the others and let them know how their foolish behavior is affecting you."

Sonic tightens his grip onto the feline. "Thanks...again." He then chuckles. "Now it is you that is helping me."

The feline lets out a small laugh. "Yeah, I guess I am.

~***~

"Oh cmon, Twilight. I'm sure you're just over thinking this."

"Am I? I mean yeah, I know there was nothing behind it, but.." A sheepish smile appears on the mare's face. "I liked it. What am I supposed to do? I'm not into mares. At least I don't think I am."

"I am so glad I came into work today." The guard comments as they retrieve their helmet and re-engages the magic disguise.

Cadence turns towards the 'stallion.' "Why are you still here?"

"Leaving now," They mutter as they slink way.

"So, that was something." The princess comments as she turns back towards the lavender mare. "Wanna talk about it?"

Twilight shakes her head. "No, not right now. I'm just going to take a shower and maybe lie down for a while."

The alicorn frowns. "Ok then, I'll talk to you later."

~***~

Approaching the outer ring of the city the duo spots a cart propped up on several planks of wood, with a dozen strange creatures surrounding it.

"What are those?" The feline inquires motioning towards one of the beings. "Why look like a pony, but..."

"They're Kirin," Sonic begins as he advances towards them. "Hey guys, need a hand?"

"Didn't Spike dress like one, for that Nightmare celebration last week?" Blaze whispers into the hedgehog's ear.

The hedgehog shrugs and turns towards the feline. "Kind of, I'll explain later.

Approaching the small group of hybrids, Sonic clears his throat to get their attention.

"What do you want?" One of the creatures with a bright sea foam green colorization asks with a distinctly female voice as it turns towards the hedgehog.

"Whoa, no need for the hostility. Just checking to see if any of you need any help." Sonic replies holding out his hands in front of him.

"Well, we don't need any help from the likes of ..ow!" The rude Kirin begins but is cut off as a small brightly colored yellow variant smacks them across the back of the head.

"Be silent, Misty Marsh. We've been at this for over an hour. Maybe they might be able to help us."

The Kirin now know as Misty Marsh mutters something under her breath and trots away.

"Sorry about that, we're all a little on edge. You think you can help us with our predicament?

Sonic crosses his arms across his chest. "That depends on; what seems to be the problem?"

"Fair enough," The Kirin replies with a shrug. "We've been trying to change out our left front wheel that we busted up on the way in." They smile sheepishly. "None of us have been able to get the darn thing off, and all we've managed to do is start stripping the bolt. So..."

The hedgehog glances over at the distressed cart and then back at the smiling kirin. "You do know that they have reverse threads on the left side right?"

Every one of the Kirin face hooves and lets out a collective groan. "Are you serious?" The yellow hybrid exclaims as they slowly drag their hoof away from their face. "Why would they do that?"

One of the stationary Kirin grabs a wrench and tests out this 'claim'; breaking the troublesome nut free. "Hey, he's right."

"If I recall, some 'genius' thought it was to prevent the lugs from unscrewing when the wheel was in motion." Sonic replies using finger quotes on the word genius. "Turns out they just didn't know how fasteners worked and made it difficult for everyone else."

"H-how...How did you know all that?" The feline exasperates as she throws her arms up into the air.

The hedgehog nonchalantly shrugs. "I heard it from somewhere a long time ago. Didn't think it was true, till I started trying it out on some captured tech."

"Well, however, you came across this information. You have my thanks, traveler." The Kirin then holds out her hoof. "The name is Rei."

Taking the outstretched appendage, the hedgehog gives it a firm shake. "And I'm Sonic, Sonic The Hedgehog." He then points to the feline behind him. "This is Blaze, Blaze The..."

"Blaze is just fine," The Guardian interprets.

Rei gives the feline a firm nod "Well then, we'll be on our way, it's already over mid-day, and we haven't gotten into town yet."

"Now wait a minute." The hedgehog begins as he walks towards the disable cart. "I can give you a hand with this. Someone toss me a wrench."

Next Chapter Preview:

Sonic: "Try not to freak out too much when you walk in."

Gilda: "Well, well, well, look what the cat dragged in."

Blaze: "Well, that was certainly something."

Sanguis Rose: "Stop right there, criminal scum."

Who run, Barter Town?

Who run Barter Town?

"Well, that was mighty decent of you." The feline jests with a cheeky tone. As she watches the Kirin's cart speed of and head towards the front gate. "I see you're in a lot higher spirits than from when we first arrived."

The hedgehog shrugs and crosses his arms behind his back. "Hey, I like helping others. That's why I do this." He then turns to the guardian and smiles. "That's how we met isn't it?"

Blaze blushes and looks way. "Yes, we did, and I acted rather foolish during our first encounter. Didn't I?"

"Meh, you were in an unknown land, fighting an enemy you knew nothing about. I'd probably be a bit on edge too." Sonic replies still maintaining his casual stride.

"Still, it wasn't one of my proudest moments." The feline grumbles looking down at the ground.

Sonic turns towards the guardian and places a hand on her shoulder. "C'mon, don't be like that. Everything came through in the end. Right?"

"Right."

~***~

Approaching a massive steel archway, Sonic turns towards the guardian and motions her to stop. "I'm going to need you to promise me something before we go any further.."

The feline crosses her arms across her chest. "Ok, and what would that be?"

"Promise not to freak out once we set foot in the city."

"Uh, ok sure." Blaze replies nervously. "Should I be nervous? What you're asking is making me a tad uneasy."

"Na, it will be just a bit overwhelming when you first walk in." The hedgehog says with a dismissive wave. "You'll be fine."

With an uneasy stance on the matter, the guardian reluctantly follows the hedgehog under the archway and into the city. Two griffins standing on each side. Dressed in steel armor give the two a small nod as they walk past."

"Oh my goodness," The feline exclaims as her eyes widened and senses are overloaded from what's before her.

Stalls of various wares of beautiful fabrics, exotic foods, or even strange bubbles line the large plaza that sits near the main gates. Massive walls of white stone surround the city. As towers jut out from various areas; with most near another walled in place on the far side of the city. Buildings of all shapes and sizes sit crammed and stacked within the city's walls. Creatures of various types mill about or conversate with one another. Some heavy in foreign accents. While others in languages the Guardian has never heard before. As the guardian is overwhelmed by what's before her. A hand is placed on her shoulder; breaking the feline away from the overwhelming sensation.

"Welcome to Barter Town, Blaze." The hedgehog says with a cheeky grin. Most likely amused from the felines reaction to the city.

Blaze turns to Sonic with a raised eyebrow. "Barter town? I thought everything here had some type of pony theme to it."

"It does, just that everyone here calls it 'Barter Town.' So, I figured I might as well do the same." The hedgehog replies with a shrug.

"Hey, Sonic," A voice in the distance shouts. Promoting the two off worlders to turn towards tech source just as a diamond dog dressed in a green sports jacket runs up to the two.

"Rocky, what's going on? I haven't seen you since the cabbage incident. Where have you been?" The hedgehog inquires as he pats the pooch on their shoulder.

"Cabbage incident?" The feline repeats as she slowly turns to the hedgehog in confusion.

"Long story," Sonic replies with a dismissive wave.

With a small chuckle, Rocky adjusts his jacket. "Funny story, you remember that..." The hound trails off as he spots a particular feline standing next to the hedgehog and lets out a deep growl; prompting the Sol guardian to take a step back.

"Whoa, calm down, Rocky. She's on our side." Sonic interjects as he steps between the two; attempting to break up the hostile tension.

"I will when she...yipe!" The Diamond dog yelps and leaps backwards; putting some distance between himself and the feline.

Figuring something is up. Sonic turns towards the guardian and notices a massive orb of flames hovering her her right hand. "Uh Blaze,"

"Watch it, mutt. Or I'll really give you something to growl about." The feline spits with a slight hiss in her voice.

Taking another step backwards, Rocky starts to make a break for it. "Anyway, uh Ruby was looking for you. Said that the next time I see you. To let you know. Uh, I got to go."

Without missing a beat, the pooch makes a break for it and disappears into the crowd.

"Well, that was something." The hedgehog says flatly.

Discharging the flame, Blaze makes her way back towards the speedster and stops next to him. "My apologies, I didn't mean to spook your friend."

Sonic lets out an amused laugh and smacks the guarding on the middle of her back; causing her to stumble slightly. "Oh man, you should have seen his face. He way ready to shat a brick. Rocky is probably the craziest son of a bitch I know, and you make him runway with this tail between his legs." The hedgehog wipes a tear away from his eye. "Priceless."

Blaze scowls at the hedgehog. "Sonic,"

"What, he's a diamond dog. I was being literal." The hedgehog replies defensively.

The felines expression shifts to a neutral one. "Still, I wish you would try to make at least an attempt to curb that potty mouth of yours."

"He, he, you said 'potty'."

"Sonic,"

"Ok fine, yesh. I was just messing with you. I am seriously trying to tone it down some." He then lets out a small chuckle before continuing. "So uh you mind if we check out to see what Ruby wants?" Sonic inquires as he gestures behind him with his thumb. "she probably just wants to say hi or something."

Blaze lets out a quiet sigh and crosses her arms. "Very well, shall see what your friend wants." She then points firmly at the hedgehog. "But no more delays after that. I would like us to find a restaurant or perhaps a dinner sooner than later."

"That's fair, now C'mon this way." The hedgehog motions his hand for the feline to follow.

~***~

Entering the room with a towel draped over her back. The usually lavender mare lets out a heavy sigh, and she examines her green colored coat, mane, and tail.

"Looks like it will take one than one bath to get it all out." The unicorn mutters in a sad tone. "I just hope I'm not still like this by Friday or else..."

Twilight trails off as she notices the communication stone pulsating in the spot she left it. The mare lets out an annoyed groan at she approaches it. "I told cadence I was done talking about that. What does she want now?" She grumbles as she uses her magic to activate the crystal. "Now...what?"

The rest of the mare's outburst dies in her throat, and her eyes go wide as she spots not the princess of love, but the monarch of the sun and co-ruler of Equestria.

"P-princess Celestia," The unicorn sputters as she takes a quick bow towards the projection of the alicorn; causing her towel to tumble to the floor in the process. "S-sorry for my outburst. It was meant for somepony else. For what do I owe the pleasures of speaking to you today."

Celestia raises an eyebrow in response to the mare over polite greeting and shakes her head as a smile appears on her face. "Please stand, Twilight. I've told you many times that you don't need to be so formal with me."

"S-sorry force of habit." The mare studders as she returns to a standing position. "It's just been one of those days. You know?"

The alicorn gives the mare a small nod "Indeed; it has been." Her expression turns serious. "I wish this 'call' was a friendly one. But I must inform you and your friends may be in great danger."

With small gaps, the color drains from the unicorn's face. "What's going on?"

~***~

Continuing down the numerous stalls that line the streets. A certain blue hedgehog glances left and right; trying to find his ever elusive friend. With a slowly growing impatient feline following behind him "Now where is she?" Sonic mutters to no one in particular. "She usually has a stall in this area."

"Maybe she's not around or decided to go home." Blaze mutters with a hint of venom in her voice.

Sonic slowly turns towards the feline with a sour look. "What the hell?"

"Sorry, sorry," The guardian begins with a dismissive wave. "I haven't had anything all day, and I guess I'm starting to get a bit agitated."

The hedgehog shrugs and returns to his search. "Tell you what, if we don't find her by the time we reach 'that' fountain." He points to the aforementioned object in the distance. "We'll head over to the Cloud District and get a bite to eat. Sound good?"

"Yes, thank you." The feline replies with a small smile.

Sonic chuckles as he continues his search. "Had I know you'd get this ornery, I would have...Woah Hey!"

A long snake-like object bursts from under one of the nearby tables and wraps out the hedgehog's right leg and pulls him away. The feline lets out a startled gasps and runs after her incapacitated friend.

"Sonic!" Blaze exclaims as she runs to towards the booth that took away the blue speedster.

"So, we meet again, my beloved." A velvety voice coos as a female mare with a bright white coat and styled red mane emerges from behind a curtain; while a destruct hedgehog is promptly dropped by a long white snake-like appendage.

Blaze attempts to intervene but is stopped a small hand/paw grasps her should. "Easy now, she does this all the time." A voice replies, sounding distinctly female. The feline snaps her head towards the voice and spots a small diamond god standing before her. Sporting a distinctly similar appearance to the show she just chased off, except this one has a small build and more feline posture to it.

"Uh, what?" The feline meekly replies as she glanced back towards her friend and then new arrival.

"I said, those do this shtick all the time. It was funny at first, but now.." The diamond dog rolls her eyes.

The feline turns her attention back toward her friend and notices a particular sight. Instead of trotting towards the hedgehog the mare is more or less glided towards him. With her forelegs almost hovering off the ground. Blaze also notices that the snake-like appendage that has started to coil around Sonic a bears a strikingly similar appearance to the mare's coat.

The feline frowns upon this discovery. "Wait a minute."

Reaching the end of the stall the guardian's suspicions are proven correct as everything below the mare's torso is no longer pony and is instead fused to that of scaly appendage that is now fully wrapped around Sonic.

"You've returned to me at last." The creatures hissed as a forked touch flicks out of her mouth. "Now you have no choice, but to..."

"Hi, Ruby," The Hedgehog interrupts in a cheerful tone.

The creatures now known as Ruby lets out a quiet grown as recoils slightly. "Why didn't you let me finish?" She whines as her lower lip quivers. "We usually always finish."

"Well, we've done this shtick before, and I'm pretty sure my friend over there is about to freak out." Sonic nonchalantly replies.

"WHAT THE HELL!" Blaze shouts as she stomps towards the duo.

The hedgehog grins ."I told you, so."

Closing the gap, the now fiery feline moves in to confront the two. "You two have some explaining to do."

An abrupt and loud gunfall draws everyone attention to a very amused female diamond dog. "Still at it again, Ruby? You've been trying to get that hedgehog since he saved you a few months back."

"Saved?" The feline inquires as she turns back the to diamond dog and the into her friend; who still coiled within the creature's grasp.

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle and wiggles one of his arms free and scratches the back of his head. "Remember when I mentioned freaking out the guards when I first came here." The feline nods. "Well, it was because I was carrying her." He gestures towards the creature beside him.

"I'm sorry, I know this is important, but what are you?" Blaze asks with a hint of hesitation.

"I'm a Lamia if you haven't figured it out," Ruby replies with a cheerful demeanor. "I thought everypony knew what I was."

Blaze tilts her head. "A what?"

"A Lamia, Half snake half pony or so at least that's how I've heard many ponies describe it." The creature adds with a lazy shrug.

"Hm, interesting. The feline ponders. "So, if you don't mind me asking. How did Sonic save you?"

Ruby's eyes light up with excitement as she uncoils herself from the blue hedgehog. "Well you see, it all started..."

"Sonic found Ruby collapsed outside of town and carried her here. That's pretty much the long and short." The hound interrupts, but then snaps her fingers before adding something else. " Oh wait, he brought her to the town's hot spring. To warm her up" The diamond dog replies flatly as she files her nails.

"Roxy" The Lamia scolds. "Why must you ruin everything?"

With a shrug, the diamond dog switches to her other paw. "Because the fire cat is getting pissed and I don't want to a repeat of happened to my brother."

"Rocky was your brother?" The feline exclaims in shock; while Sonic burst into a fit of laughter and falls to the ground.

~***~

"Wait a minute slow down." Twilight begins as she holds up a hoof. "Did you just say, you were attacked by a dragu? I thought those were a myth. Who or what pony could create something like that?"

The sun princess frowns. "Not what but who and I only know of one pony that could do that and she has no reason to." Her eyes then go wide. "Unless,"

"What, what, what do you mean?" The mare shouts in a panic. "Why would Princess Luna do that?"

Celestia shakes her head. "My sister wouldn't ever even consider it, but there was another pony who possessed similar magic, but he's gone.

Twilight frowns, "Sombra? But that's impossible. I saw he turns to dust with my own eyes. "

The alicorn exhales through her her nose. "If even the slightest bit remains then another pony of great understanding of magic may be able to resurrect the fallen king, but that would be..."
Celestia shakes her head ."No that's impossible."

~***~

"You're not still mad, are you? Sonic asks with slight hesitation as he matches the felines pace. "I mean you looked pretty ticked when..."

"I'm not mad," Blaze interrupts. "I was just a tad annoyed that those two kept heckling me after I tried to apologize." She the signs. "Still, I am sorry it had to resort to that. Those two seemed like decent individuals."

Sonic turns to the feline and gives her an amused look. "I think they were just shocked that you could shoot fire from your hands." The hedgehog then taps his chin. "Can you only launch fire from your hands or can you direct it from any part of your body." He the snaps his fingers. "What happens when you eat really spicy food? Does it..."

"Enough!" The feline snaps in annoyance. "Please cease this form of questioning. I do not know the answer as to if my pyrokinesis is effected by ingesting anything spicy. So please, let's talk about something else.

The hedgehog shrugs and crosses his arms behinds his head." Fair enough. So, where you want to eat? You never specified what you wanted."

"As long as it's something usually not found in Ponyville. I don't care." The feline replies as she crosses her arms and looks into the sky just a small bird flies overhead. "I'd even have one of those at this point."

"So, the lady don't care where we go. I find that hard to believe," Sonic jests as he gives the feline a playful jab. "Cmon, what did you have in mind. I'm up for anything."

Blaze lets out an annoyed groan and punches Sonic in the arm. "Must everything be a joke with you? As I said; as long as it's different and we get there in a reasonable time. I'm not picky." She the frowns. "That is if we don't experience any more delays."

Much like the phrase 'what could go wrong?' Or 'it can't get worse. This too seems to 'backfired' upon its mentions. Because just as those words leave the feline's mouth. A dark shadow covers the group momentarily just as something heavy lands nearby."

"Now what?" The feline grumbles as she knits her brow."

"Well, Well, well, look what the cat dragged in." A familiar voice asks as something massive towers over the two. "Look who finally decided to show his face." The voice continues with a hint playfulness to it.

Blaze frowns at the new arrival but is left awestruck in response to what it does next. Two massive talons lift the hedgehog from the ground and pull him towards her feathery breast. It's wings extend to the sides to help maintain balance. The feline attempts to react but stops as she notices Sonic not trying to break free.

"Gilda, what are you doing here?" The Sonic inquires as hs looks up at the feathered griffon. "I thought you went back home after setting everything right."

"Pfft, and do what exactly? Bake cookies?" The griffon jest as she looks down at the hedgehog and grins. "Na, I just wanted to see how you're doing. Didn't expect to find you wandering around here." She then leans in closer. "What are you doing here anyway?"

Sonic shrugs or at leas the best he can given the current situation. "Just looking for a good place to eat. Any suggestions.?"

"Anything but the Chum Bucket, "The griffon grimaces."

"Chum...bucket?"

"You know what 'chum' is right?" The hedgehog nods. "Not imaging that served as food."

Yuck, that just sounds just awful. "The hedgehog replies gagging at the concept."

"At least we're on the same page with that," Gilda adds with a small chuckle. "

"Indeed we are, but let me ask you something."

"shoot,"

"When did you become a hugger? Last I checked you tended to stay way from that sort of thing."

The griffon squares her shoulders. "Dunno felt like the thing to do. You know? Besides, last time we talked you seemed to enjoy this sort of thing." She adds with a smirk.

"Well, I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy a warm hug from time to time, I'm just surprised you're the one to do it."

"Meh, I was just in the mood." She grins. "Anyway, I saw your fight with Nightmare Moon the other night. That was awesome, "She exclaims. "I was going to swing by and congratulate you, but the moon princess was awfully chummy with you and didn't want to invoke her wrath or something."

"Speaking of wrath," The hedgehog comments as he tilts his head toward a very enraged feline.

Gilda's eyes snap open as she spots the feline standing behind her."Oh, my fault, we're you two on a date or something?"

"Something like that, yes." The Sol guardian sethe's. "I would appreciate it if you put him down this instant." She spits as fire begins to roll across her frame.

The griffon promptly set the hedgehog down and opens her wings to take flight. "Hey, I just wanted to say hi before I go. I'll chat with you next time I'm in Ponyville. Bye."

With a might flap of wings the griffon takes flight and flies away; distancing herself from the firey feline.

Sonic turns towards the feline and gives her a flat look, "Really?"

~***~

"B-but we defeated her Twice." Twilight proclaims as she levitates a book from a nearby shelf onto the floor. "Records show that she's been confined to the hive since then. What could have happened since that could have let her out."

Celestia closes her eyes and lets out a long sigh. "I don't know, Twilight. But somepony did, and now we have to figure out what she's up to before it's too late."

"I'll gather everyone and head to Canterlot within the hour." The mare announces as she starts making her way towards the door.

The alicorn lets out a heavy sigh. "Twilight wait, by jumping to conclusions you'll only start a panic. Besides, I'm not in Canterlot at the moment. So, you'll just be wasting a trip out there." She then gives the mare a small smile. "Can I trust that you'll keep this between us. Until we figure out what's going on."

"Of course, princess. You have my word that I won't speak of to this anypony."

The alicorn nods, "Good, for every pony's sake. I trust you that it won't."

~***~

A smooth melody plays in the background as tranquil light emits from the several low hanging chandeliers scattered throughout; while pictures or decorative artifacts cover most of the buildings walls or pillars. Creatures and ponies of all types are seated around several tables dotting the establishment.

While a certain hedgehog and feline are seated at a small round table in an offset corner; looking over the possible meal options. The latter of which is currently hiding behind her menu; grumbling something to herself.

Sonic speaks over his menu to the Sol guardian in front of him; who is gripping her's as if it's about to runway. "Hey Blaze," The hedgehog doesn't get a response. "Blaze?"

"Y-yes, Sonic," The feline studders as she increases her death grip on her menu. "Is there something you need?"

The hedgehog frowns and lets his menu fall to the table. "You alright over there. You've been awfully quiet since we got here."

"I-i'm fine Sonic just...just..."

Rises from his seat, Sonic walks over to the feline and places a hand on her shoulder; causing her jump slightly at the contact. "Cmon, whats going on with you. You've been acting a little off since we got here."

Blaze lets out a heavy sigh and sets her menu down on the table. "This all just a bit overwhelming that's all." She frowns and looks away. "No, of course, that's not all of it." Turning back to Sonic the Guardian looks up at him with a small sigh. "I didn't like how they were so familiar with you. Especially that griffon."

"Wait, are you jealous?" Sonic inquires with a wide grin.

Blaze turns way in a huff as a hint of blush appears on her face. "I'm not jealous. I just think such displays of affection are out of place in a public setting."

"Yeah sure, you're standing on 'moral decency' is what caused all those outbursts," Sonic comments as he rolls his eyes. "Next you'll be telling me that..."

"Just drop it alright." The feline snaps and snarls towards the hedgehog." I feel foolish enough as it is. I wish you would stop rubbing it in."

Sonic raises his hands in front of his and makes his back to his chair. "Ok fine didn't mean to get to riled up. I was just messing with you, but for the record. Those types of greeting are kind of standard hat around here."

"How do you mean?" The feline inquires as she looks up at the hedgehog with a raised eyebrow.

The speedster shrugs. "It's pretty much what I just said. A lot of people are rather affectionate by nature here; especially the pony folk."

"You expect me just to believe that?" The feline replies flatly.

Sonic leans back in his chair. "I 'expect' you to at least consider it. And take into account that this place is real heavy on the whole friendship and magic stuff."

"I don't follow. What are you getting at, Sonic?" The guardian reply, with much of the same expression and tone as before.

The hedgehog points to a nearby table just as a female Zebra is seen hugging a unicorn stallion." See that over there?"

"Yeah?" Blaze answers as she turns to the location."It looks like a couple out on a date."

Sonic then points to an older female minotaur hugging a small child. "Ok, how about that?"

"It appears to be a mother or possibly grandmother hugging their child or grandchild."

With one final motion, the hedgehog points to a diamond dog trying to shake a female unicorn's hoof but is instead promptly glomped. Then to a fawn at a nearby stall fist/hoof bumping a griffon only to be hugged instead. "You see since most of the inhabitants here lack the the proper appendages to give a simple handshake." Sonic holds up is hand and twiddles his fingers to emphasize this. "Most will instead just give each other a hug. Though, that doesn't mean everyone does it for every greeting. But since it's a lot more common of a greeting here than where we're from; It lacks the more 'intimate' expression behind it."

Blaze opens her mouth to say something, but snaps it shut and motions the hedgehog to continue.

"My point is that yeah, there is some friendliness behind it. It's also just a regular form of greeting around here." Sonic then leans forward. "I've been here long enough to become accustomed to that. You have not. So, I can see how you'd take it the wrong way and think everyone was getting a bit too chummy with me. And for that, I apologize for not explaining this sooner."

"And I'm sorry, I didn't mean to snap at you like that. I've just been a bit on edge lately, and I've been unintentionally taking it on you."

The hedgehog lets out a small laugh and leans back on this chair. "Yeah, I guess I've been laying on a bit thick lately. I'll tone down."

"Thank you," Replies with a nod and returns to browsing her menu.

The hedgehog leans forward and sets down his menu. "So, if you don't mind me asking. What has got so on edge lately?"

The feline tenses up.

"Order up!" a gruff voice announced as two large plates of omnivore friendly food are placed onto the table.

The two look up to a tan colored minotaur with an apron and white chefs hat. "Wait, we haven't even ordered yet." The feline says with a hint of worry in her voice.

"Yeah, I mean I'm all for fast service, but the waiter hasn't even been by to ask what we want.

The minotaur lazily points to a caribou sitting at a nearby table; who starts eagerly waving upon being noticed. "She ordered, said you two looked like you could use a good meal."

Blaze lets out a low growl and lets her menu fall flat onto the table.

~***~

"Bahahaha, I can't believe you said that." A very amused hedgehog announces as the now 'trio' exit the restaurant. "I mean seriously?"

An equally amused caribou laughs alongside the speedster and struts besides the two as they walk down the street. "I know right, how do you mess that up?"

"I'm sorry alright!" Blaze exclaims as she starts to blush. "The antlers threw me off."

The tarandus stops and taps one of the small antlers protruding from the crown of her head. "You mean these little things? Yeah, I guess they're technically antlers, but these as big as they get with does."

"To be fair Baily. I think you guys are the only ones that have antlers on both genders. So, I can see where the confusion came from." The hedgehog then smirks. "Though, it still is pretty funny."

The feline rolls her eyes and lets out an annoyed huff. "Oh, I'm so glad that my incorrect assumption on Miss Bailey's gender is humorous to you two." She says dryly.

"Ok Blaze, calm down we're just messing with you. Honestly, you aren't the first person to think Bailey was a buck." The hedgehog lets out an amused chuckle. "It's been a running joke between us for a while now. Hell, I almost did it."

Blaze narrows her eyes as she crosses her arms. "I find that hard to believe, Sonic. You're usually pretty observant on this sort of thing."

"It's true, ask Bailey."

"It's true," The caribou announces with an amused smirk. "When we were helping Ruby to one of the springs. He turned to be and said; 'man I'm so glad you had said something before I did. I almost thought you were a dude." Bailey giggles into her hoof. "Yeah, I laugh about it now, but there was a time that it would bug me. But you can't expect every single individual you come across to know that my species has antlers on both genders."

The feline gives the doe a small nod and places a hand on the small of her back. "Well said, Bailey. You can't think little of someone that is ignorant of something."

"Wow, you are like an entirely different individual than when I first meet you." The tarandus tilts her head. "What happened?"

"Well, you see..."

"Blaze gets a little grumpy when she hasn't eaten anything in awhile." Sonic interrupts and he wrap an arm around the unsuspecting cat; causing her to blush. "Also, we were having a bit of heated discussion when you showed up. So, it was a few factors in play that prompted things to happen like they did." He turns to the blushing Sol guardian. "Isn't that right Blaze?"

"Y-yeah, i-it was a bit of a sensitive topic." The feline stutters as she turns away and tries; in vain to hide her crimson face. "I am still not familiar with some of the cultural things here."

"Was it about how Sonic was getting all those hugs from seemingly every individual he came across?" Bailey inquires an amused expression.

The color drains from the feline's face. "How did you..."

"You guys were talking about it pretty loudly." The caribou interrupts. "I take it getting a hug has a different meaning than where you're from."

"Well yes, it has a more of closeness to it if you will. Granted there is some individual who uses it as a greeting. Most will express such actions with an individual there close to or have a fondness for."

Bailey shrugs. "Hey as long as none of them lick the big guy across the face then it's nothing you need to worry about."

"Lick?"

"Yeah, it's a form of marking....I think." She waves one of her cleft hooves before continuing. "Don't quote me on that, but usually when you see it, then something is going on."

"Interesting," The feline sheepishly smiles as she turns to the hedgehog. "Moving on, if you don't mind me asking. How did you and Sonic meet?" She adds changing the subject to something a lot less 'awkward.'

"Oh, I work at the bathhouse in town here. I met Sonic when he brought Ruby in. I think I mentioned that already." She lets out a happy sigh. "Risking his life, helping a complete stranger. You don't see that much these days."

"Quite," Blaze the turns to the hedgehog. "Looks like you have yourself a fan, Sonic...Sonic?

The hedgehog in question seemed lost in thought as he slowly approaches a small wooden structure sitting near a small shop in the Town square.

"Hey, Blaze, is that what I think it is?" Sonic inquires as he points to the structure.

"I think so,

"Sweet, I've been looking for one of these for ages." He grabs the feline hand. "Come on."

"W-what," The feline studders as she yanked toward the building.

Bailey rolls her eyes and scoff. "Oh yeah sure, just forget about me."

Sonic slides a small coin into a nearby stall and flings open a brightly colored curtain; pulling the unexpecting feline inside.

"Wait what are," A bright flash cuts the guardian off and prompts her to rub her eyes. "What was that?"

The hedgehog frown. "You're supposed to smile Blaze. It's a photo booth.

"You mean, you guys aren't just making out in their." Bailey jests causing the feline to blush profusely.

"You wish, Baily," Sonic mutters before placing his arm around the blushing feline. "Now smile the next one's coming up." Another flash occurs; taking another photo.

Blaze blinks several times in an attempt to clear away all the spots obscuring her vision."How many is there going to be? N-not that I mind this."

The hedgehog shrugs. "Usually it's four or five. Kind of depends on the booth. He then removes his arm from around the feline and makes a funny face towards the camera. Another flash occurs, and Sonic notices that the Sol Guardian was mirroring his own.

"Now you getting it it, " The hedgehog comments with a playful jab "We only have two more, let's make them count.

Blaze nods and rolls her shoulders. "Ok,

~***~

Off in the distant land of Cloudsdale, a certain cyan pegasus leans back on a large cushion and sips a brightly colored drink. "Those guys won't ever to think to find me here. Heck, I wouldn't usually go here." The mare laughs to herself. "yep, just hand back and wait for the smoke to clear and everything will be alright."

"I doubt that," A voice in the distance state causing the mare almost to spit up her drink.

Rainbow Dash coughs a few times as she tries to keep her drink down. "Gilda is that you?"

You know it," The griffon replies as she takes a seat next to the mare. "So, what are you doing here?"

The pegasus sets down her drink. "I was going to ask you the same thing. Weren't you supposed to be in Bartertown?"

Gilda motions something to the bartender and lets out a long sigh. "Yeah, but some things came up. The vendor I was supposed to meet, didn't show. The griffon looks down at fiddles with her talons. "Also, I ran into that blue friend of yours when I was there."

As she finishes her Dash then sets the empty glass onto the counter. "Sonic was in Barter Town? What was he doing there."

The griffon shrugs. "Can't tell you. That cat was with him. Didn't take to kindly to me greeting him."

"You hugged him, didn't you?" The mare asks in a flat tone.

Gilda places a talon onto her beak and smirks. "Maybe,"

~***~

As the the sun sets on the horizon. Two figures zip into town; kicking up a sizable cloud of dust in their wake.

"Well, that was fun." The feline comments as slows to a leisurely pace and she crosses her arms behind her head. "Thanks for that."

Sonic lets out a small chuckle. "No problem, it certainly was something. I didn't expect to run into so many familiar faces thought."

The two continued their trek through the small hamlet; passing by the local fountain and towards the library; waving to a few locals as they pass by. Blaze reaches into her pocket and removes a small strip of miniature photos.

"I can't believe you dragged me into one of those things. Caught me totally by surprise." Blaze comments with an amused giggle. "Though these did turn out pretty good."

Sonic glances over at the photos and laughs. "yeah, they did." He points to the last image. "But Bailey wanted to be in there too, so the last one just has her grinning like an idiot."

"Are you sure you don't mind that I keep these?"

The hedgehog waves his hand and produces another set. "It's fine, I had the machine make a duplicate. So, I have a set too."

"I didn't know you were so popular with everyone." The feline comments as she glances at some of the passing pony's.

"Meh, I get around." The hedgehog replies with a shrug.

Blaze lets out a huge sigh and crosses her arms. "I'm just glad you haven't taken a more questionable approach to your new found 'fame'."

"How do you mean?"

The feline frown. "You save a lot of individual. Some of them happen to be a pretty young woman and well..."

"You think I'd ever use my status to get into women's beds?" Sonic frowns. "Why would you think I'd ever do that?"

"No, I didn't mean it like that. I guess I'm still processing our conversation from earlier." Blaze waves her hand dismissively. "Given how everyone was so chummy with you. I originally thought something else was going on. I'm glad that was not true."

Sonic laughs. "Ok, I admit. I can see how you'd perceive that but as I stated before. It was just how everyone greets each other around here." He frowns. "Besides. What kind of hero would that make me? If I was asking for 'that' sort of payment when I saved them. Everyone would think I was some deviant or something."

"I suppose you're right,"

"I mean about it, what would you think if right after I saved you. I demanded we find some place quiet and..."

"Ok, I get it!" The feline snaps. "I was foolish to assume such things and now can't seem to..."

"Stop sticking your foot in your mouth?" The hedgehog interrupts.

Blaze smirks. "I was going to say let it go, but I guess your assessment is also correct."

Noticing the feline's tone, Sonic opens his mouth to comment but trails off when they reach the library. "Ok, you're going to have to explain why your..oh hey we're here."

A soft purple light can be seen from one of the upper-level windows; prompting the feline to let out a heavy sigh. "She's still on that thing. "

Blaze turns to Sonic. "Hey mind helping me with this. Twilight has been on that thing all day, and I'm sure poor Cadence needs a break."

Sonic shrugs. "Yeah sure.

The hedgehog follows the feline through the front door of the library and up a set stairs to a large room with a bright pink box; that catches the hedgehog's eye. "Hey, what's thing." He opens up the box. "Well, hello Ms. October."

"Put that down," Twilight chastises.

Sonic looks up at the mare and grimaces. "Hey, Twilight, what happened to you fac-oh!"

"I-is it really that bad?" The unicorn studders as she begins to panic. "I-I assure you. It's only temporary. I just need B-Blaze to reapply more of the ointment and..."

A certain alicorn clears her throat, prompting everyone to turn towards her." I don't mean to be a bother, but there is a pressing matter I'd like to discuss with you."

"Oh hey, what's up, Sunny? It looks like Twilight got the gem transmitter working already." Sonic says walking toward the projection of the sun goddess.

"We are facing troubling times," Celestia replies with a sad tone.

The hedgehog approaches the projection. "What happened? Where are you."

"Somepony tried to attack the princess in Soleanna," Twilight replies, but instantly covers her mouth.

With a flash of light, Sonic disappears from sight

"Did he just..."

~**~

Off in a distant land. The sun goddess stars at the projections of Twilight and Blaze. "Did he just run off?" The princess inquires.

"Yes, and I'm sure he's heading your way." The mare confirms.

"My way? Would he.." Celestia trails off as the ground beneath her hooves begins to shake, and its start falling off their shelves or walls. Causing everyone to go into a panic. "Calm down, everypony. It's only."

A certain hedgehog sudden appears before the frighten guard. "Hey, Sunny I came as fast as I -whoa!" Sonic leaps back as a sword is pointed at his face.

"Stand down creature, what business do you have with our Lady Celestia?" A red hippogriff gilded in heavy armor states holding a silver word.

Next Chapter Preview:

Celestia: "This is a troubling development."

Luna: "Techniques of twisted forbidden magic. May Faust have mercy on there soul."

Sonic: "This is all fine and dandy, but where do I fit in all of this?"

Sanguis Rose: "There is an old griffon saying; 'You can't put a price on honor.' Well...maybe the offer was too low."

Feathers of flight

Feathers of Flight

"Stand down foul creature. What business do you have with our Lady Celestia?" A crimson hippogryph, gilded in heavy steel armor demands, holding a silver sword an inch away from the hedgehog's face.

Sonic takes a few tentative steps backward as he holds up his hands in front of him. "Whoa, calm down, Red; I'm just here to see if the princess is ok." He then turns to the aforementioned alicorn; standing behind the hostile guard. "You ok over there, Sunny?"

"I'm all right, Sonic." The sun goddess replies with a kind smile; Promoting the hedgehog to relax visibly with a heavy sigh of relief. "Just a bit rattled with everything that's transpired." She adds turning to the guard with a sour look,

The guard lowers her weapon slightly and glances in the Sun princess's direction. "You two know each other?"

"Oh course, me and Sunny go way back." The hedgehog replies with an exaggerated wave of his arms. "In fact, we even had a little chat on..."

"I think she get's the point." The alicorn interrupts flatly.

Sanguis raises an eyebrow in response to the two's brief exchange but then shrugs it off before sheathing her sword back into its hilt; located on her back.

"My apologies," The hippogryph begins with an apologetic tone. "Everypony has been a bit on edge since this morning's...'incident.'"

"And I supposed my way of traveling here didn't help things either?" The hedgehog jests as he lets out a nervous chuckle.

The guard locks eyes with the speedster. "It did not. However," She then holds an armored talon to her beak and clears her throat. "My actions towards you were unacceptable. Perhaps we should try this again" She then holds out an armored claw. "Sanguis Rose, sworn protector and personal guard of our Lady Celestia."

Sonic grabs onto the extended appendage and gives it a firm shake. "And I'm Sonic, Sonic the hedgehog. I guess if we're going with descriptive titles. 'Fastest thing alive.'" He grins. "It's nice to meet you."

"Likewise," Sanguis replies with a stoic nod. Only to shift to a raised eyebrow, as she processes what the hedgehog had just said. "Wait, fastest thing alive?"

"It's a nickname I got a long time and now I just kind of roll with it."

"But why?"

"Because it's true," The speedster smugly replies as he runs a hand through his long blue quills.

The hippogryph lets out an amused snort. "Right,"

Sonic opens his mouth to reply, but then someone loudly clearing their throat. Cuts the hedgehog off and steers things back towards the original conversation.

"Perhaps, we should get back to the topic at claw," Sanguis suggests sheepishly.

The hedgehog clears his throat before responding. "Yeah, let's do that."

A certain princess pats her barrel with a hoof and lowers it down back to the ground."Excuse me,"

"So, you're Sunny's new muscle?" Sonic inquiries with an amused smirk. "You seem to be able to handle yourself."

"In a sense, yes. I have been asked personally by the princess herself to be her Sentinel during these," She then frowns as if what she's about to say leaves a bitter taste. "...Troublesome times. While it is not my place to make such assumptions, but I fear that this is only the beginning."

As if summoned by an unknown force, the sun goddess steps forth and takes a regal stance before addressing the party. "You are not alone in this 'assumption' Rose. I too sense something upon the horizon that may threaten our way of life." Her expression turns serious. "However, after what transpired this morning. Whoever..or whatever this is has made their first move."

"So what happened exactly?" The hedgehog inquires nonchalantly as he crosses his arms behind his back. "Twilight didn't give me a lot of details to go on. Plus, I may have gotten a tad worried and came right over when I heard the news." He adds with a nervous chuckle.

Celestia frowns for a moment in response to the question. Before shifting back to her usually 'calm and pleasant' expression. "I shall have to have a word with Twilight. Regarding the concept of confidential information and how to keep your word not to tell another pony what you promised to keep secret."

"Well for the record, I'm not a 'pony.'" The hedgehog quips with a slight shrug. "So, technically no promised was broken. Plus, Twilight was just worried about you. We both were. I wouldn't have gone all this way over here if I wasn't."

The princess nods solemnly. "And I appreciate that I really do. But regardless, Twilight gave me her word, and essentially broke it without hesitation." She smiles warmly and places her right wing across the hedgehog's back. "And while I do trust you and know you'd never exasperate the situation. Had she told it to another pony, It may have caused a panic."

"Alright, I'll give you that, but I still stand by what I said. Also, we're starting to get off track."

Sanguis turns to the princess and as she addresses her. "Would you mind if I explain this, your highness? You had only arrived when things had already become tense."

"By all mean, Sentinel. You may proceed." The Princess replies with a solemn nod.

The guard acknowledges this a firm nod. "Thank you, for highness." She then turns towards the blue hedgehog; who's watching this exchange with an amused smirk. "During my time stationed here, our unit received several reports regarding suspicious activity along the coast. Which prompted us to investigate a small collection of derelict vessels straight off the port and..."

~***~

Back at the Golden Oaks Library, a now pale green studious mare lies on her back; on top of a large towel spread across the floor, staring blankly (upside down) at the now deactivated communication gem resting on the floor nearby.

"I hope everything is alright," Twilight mutters to herself as she lazily shifts around on the floor; hoping to find a more comfortable position.

"I'm sure everything is fine," A new voice confirms as a certain Sol guardian enters the room, carrying a small bowl in her hands. No longer donning her trademark jacket or gloves; which are now both draped over a nearby chair. But instead, is wearing a pale blue halter top.

The mare turns towards the source of the voice. "But we haven't heard anything back yet." She replies as Blaze kneels beside her and sets the bowl onto the wooden floor.

"If there had been an issue, I'm sure the princess would have informed us." The Guardian reassures the mare as she summons a small burst of fire from her hands and dips them into the bowl. "Besides, Sonic is with them by now. So, any problems that may have arisen since then. Would have been resolved at this point."

Twilight bites her lower lips as she ponders the feline's words for a moment before responding. "I suppose you're right. Maybe I'm just getting worked up over nothing."

"There you go," Blaze replies as she lifts her now ointment covered hand from the bowl and places them on the mare's sides; inciting a sharp gasp, followed by a slight shutter. The feline raises an eyebrow in response, but then shrugs and continues to apply the odd colored mixture onto the mare. "Also, from what you've told me. Your ruler of the sun in more than capable of taking care of herself. So, there is no need to worry regardless."

The mare frowns and looks away. "Fine, you've made your point. I'll stop worrying myself over it." She grumbles a few intangible words under her breath before turning back to the feline and glances at her new attire. "Is that something you bought from your world or did Rarity make that for you?"

Blaze flinches slightly with a slight recoil; broken from her chain of thought at the sudden subject change but then looks down at her top before responding. "Ms. Rarity insisted that she make something that 'emphasizes my traits,'" The feline replies, using finger quotes. "Whatever that means."

"I believe she's implying that you should be a bit less reserved about your attire. You know, not keep yourself so covered up all the time." The mare replies with a matter-of-factly tone. "I may not be an expert on pyrokinesis...at least not yet anyway, but that jacket has to get troublesome to wear at times. doesn't it?"

The feline reaches back into the bowl of ointment and applying a small amount to the mare's sternum; inciting another gasp and a slight moan. "You're starting to sound like Sonic. He asked me something similar a while back and again just recently when..." Blaze trails off and looks away.

"I take it; he now knows that you've been keeping yourself wrapped up like that."

Blaze lets out a sigh as she continues to work ointment into the mare's coat. "Yes, he found out this afternoon." She then lets out an amused laugh. "He actually took it a lot better than I hoped."

"How do you mean?" Twilight inquires looks up at the feline from her position on the floor.

A small smile appears on the guardian's face. "He was shocked, to say the least, but-" Her smile increases slightly. "-then like he always does. Made me realize that I was making a big deal out of nothing." She then frowns. "That I shouldn't be ashamed of who I am and that I don't need to worry about what others think."

Twilight pats the feline on the side with her right foreleg. "We all have our inner struggles. Sometimes all we need is a little push to help us overcome them."

"So, it would be safe to assume that Sonic has assisted you with a similar matter." The feline inquires. "Mind if I ask what that was?"

The mare blushes slightly and looks away. "I wouldn't say it was something like what was weighing on your mind. Rather it was something I was unknowingly doing that was driving everypony away."

"Go on,"

"Well, I was starting to take my studies too seriously and..."

"You were reading too many books, got it." The feline interrupts.

Twilight turns to the guardian and frowns. "No, that's not what I was going to say at all. But it was something similar to that."

Blaze lets out an exaggerated gasp and covers her mouth. "Twilight Sparkle does more than just read a mountain of books?"

The mare rolls her eyes and lets out an annoyed huff. "You know that's not the reason. Knock it off!" She snaps with a slight growl.
Taking a calming breath; the mare continues. "No, I was trying to figure out the solution to a particular spell I was working on and nothing I came up was working."

"And Sonic knew the answer to this...how exactly?" The Guardian inquiries with a raised eyebrow

"He suggested that I take a break and come back to it when I wasn't to frazzled."

Blaze ignites another small flame onto her hands and dips them back into the bowl. "I take it you were able to find the solution to your problem after doing so."

"Yeah, I was," Twilight replied with a soft smile. "Ended up using that same method for a lot of issues I came across." She then frowns. "Ended up starting to shirk some of my lesser responsibilities to just get out of the house for a while and hopefully run into him." The mare looks back up at the feline. "I ended up getting really far behind in my studies, but it was Sonic who got me back on track and offered to come with me so that I would explain myself to the princess. It ended up resolving itself, but still. "She adds with a slight huff.

The feline removes her hands from the bowl and places them back onto the mare; inciting a soft whimper. "Didn't you two live together at the time? How weren't you already seeing each other on a daily basis?"

"Usually, when I'd get up for the day, Sonic would already be gone or be on his way out when I tried to talk to him. He'd offer to stay and chat for a bit, but I didn't want to inconvenience him."

"So, it would see you two had conflicting schedules?" The Guardian inquiries, inciting a small nod from the mare. "I see." She lets out a heavy sigh before continuing. "There is a matter I'd like to discuss with you."

Twilight lazily turns towards the feline with a soft smile. "What's on your mind?"

Blaze looks away for a moment before letting out a heavy sigh and turning back towards the mare. "Pardon me if I'm a bit blunt, but this is something that has been weighing on my mind for a while now." She lets out another sigh before continuing. "Are becoming aroused by this?"

The mare's eyes widen as she pulls her forelegs close to her chest. "W-what do you mean?"

"What I mean is, since I've begun treatment; resulting from your unfortunate encounter with that beehive earlier today. You've started to respond rather peculiarly to any form of physical contact during said procedure. Plus," The bridge of the feline nose crinkles slightly. "There has been a noticeable increase in pheromones present that..."

~***~

Torches and candles of various size illuminate the stone hallway in a soft, warm glow. As a certain blue hedgehog, princess, and sentinel travel down it. Sonic lets out an impressed whistle while crossing his arms behind his head, and turns to the Crimson hippogriff.

"And you took it out all by yourself? I gotta say I'm impressed, Red."

The guard turns away briefly to hide the small blush appearing on her face. "Your compliments are unnecessary. And to be fair, it was the princess that delivered the final blow to that foul creature, not I."

"Still, you were the only one to step up and protect Sunny over here, " The Hedgehog adds gesturing to the sun goddess. "Is still kind of cool."

Sanguis lets out an amused chuckle before responding. "I suppose it was. Wasn't it?"

"Of course. I wouldn't' say so unless..." Sonic trails off as he notices the princess giving the two a flat look. "What? Don't tell me you're jealous. You move the sun like it's nothing." The hedgehog exclaims as he holds out his arms. "Red here fought off a...what did you call it? A Draugr?" The alicorn nods. "What are those things anyway? They like a zombie or something?"

"One question at a time, Sonic." The alicorn replies with a shake of her head. "First off no, I am not jealous. I just don't like being ignored. Second, a Draugr is the manipulation of an individual's body; who has already passed, through the use of twisted magic." Celestia turns to the hedgehog just as he's about to ask another question. "And no, you can't be turned into one while still alive, but with enough of that twisted magic. You can be corrupt and transformed into a thrall. Though, it takes a lot for that to happen with most ponies."

Sonic crosses his arms behinds his head and exaggerates a few steps forward. "Well, that was rather informative."

"Indeed," Sanguis adds as she looks down at the ground for a few moments before continuing. "Also, I apologize princess; I wasn't aware that you two were an item. If I somehow overstepped my bounds, I assure you it was not intentional."

The alicorn and hedgehog exchange looks before turning back towards the hippogriff; who now has a nervous expression on her face.

"WHAT!" They both exclaim in unison

"H-have I said something wrong?" The guard shudders as she takes a few steps backward.

The two began snickering with one another; barely able to contain themselves, prompting the hippogryph to give them a puzzled look.

"Uh, did I miss something?"

Sonic is the first to lose his composure and bursts out laughing before falling to the ground; gaining a few odd looks from some of the nearby guards. While Celestia meanwhile, restrains herself and lets out a more dignified laugh into one of her hooves.

"P-pay up, Sunny." The hedgehog sputters as he burst into another fit of laughter. Celestia uses her magic to summon a small pouch of pits towards the speedster.

"I'm sorry, you must be quite confused right now." The princess replies as she fights to keep her composure.

"Yeah, I don't follow any of this."

Celestia takes a stance as she addresses the confused guard; which loses much of this 'power' since her wings twitch every so often as she continues to control her laughter. "About a few days ago, we made a bet that..*short.*."

The room goes eerily silent as even the laughing hedgehog beside the princess has stopped. One of the guards cringes as all eyes are now on the princess.

"Did you just snort like a pig?" A nearby guard asks.

"No," The Princess responds with a and turns way.

Sonic is the first to burst out laughing, followed by the rest of hallways occupants. Even Sanguis Rose loses it and joins the others as they laugh as the princess's unintentional faux pas.

Celestia narrows her eyes towards the laughing hippogryph. "Et Tu, Sanguis?"

"Why is everypony laughing?" A new voice inquires, as the princess of the night rounds a corner to a rather odd scene before her. The alicorn scans the halls with a bored expression on her face. Which abruptly shifts to a face splitting grin as she spots a certain blue hedgehog, just as he's recovering from his bout of laughter and is rising from the floor.

The two lock eyes and princess's expression intensifies. While the hedgehog's turn to one of worry.

"My champion!" Luna exclaims as she starts galloping towards a rather nervous Sonic.

"No, no, no!" The hedgehog shouts as he holds his hands in front of him in a futile attempt to stop the impending 'glomp' from the princess.

A flash of dark blue crosses the hedgehog's vision, just as he's knocked off his feet and is sent careening across the floor; with the princess in tow.

The group ceases there laughter and begin to depart. In hopes of not invoking the wrath of another princess. Celestia raises a brow to this but then turns back to the younger alicorn. Letting out a small sigh and shaking her head.

Luna; who is now nuzzling the hedgehog doesn't notice this or merely doesn't care. Letting out a small laugh as she does so. While Sonic for the post part. Just allows the Princess to do her thing while returning the embrace and eventually scratching her behind one of her ears; inciting another giggle.

"Hello, dear sister." The elder alicorn says with a hint of distance in her voice. "What did you and your team find on our would-be assassin?"

Luna looks up at her elder sister and sheepishly smiles as he returns to her hooves. "Thee efforts have not bared much fruit, we admit. Most findings have been of which of things we already know." The alicorn looks away just as a small folder; encased in her magic. Emerges from around the same corner she just came she arrived from earlier. "However, we did find some odd markings on the armor." She looks back at the group. "Originally we believed that it was during the early period before the uprising. However, many 'tribute' suits of armor were made and worn after that era for almost a century." She cringes. "Which makes identifying the former wearer's origin rather difficult to locate."

Sanguis glances as the hovering folder and then back at the moon princess. "You mentioned finding 'strange marking' on armor. You wouldn't happen to have made any documentation of these have you?"

"Why yes actually," The Princess replies smugly. "Several magic images were taken as well as a few charcoal rubbings." She tilts her head. "Why do you ask?"

The hippogryph gestures towards the folder. "Would you mind if I took a look at those?"

Celestia and Luna exchange looks; with the former shrugging slightly. "I don't see why not." The elder princess responds with a kind smile. "You were present after all. It seems only fair. Plus, it's thanks to you that I'm talking to all of you right now."

The night princess uses her magic to guide the folder into the hippogriffs awaiting grasp "Thank you for the kind words, Princess. But I doubt whatever that thing was would have been able to deal any significant damage to you."

"Maybe so, but you still prevented it from hurting anypony else. I'd say that still warrants a congratulatory and justifies your reassignment."

Sanguis opens the folder and begins to flip through its contents. "I just did what anygriff would do." Her eyes widen as she stops at one of the magic images. "There is an old Griffon saying; 'You can't put a price on honor.'" She holds out one of the pictures for the rest to see "Well...maybe the offer was too low."

"Are those tool marks?" Sonic skeptically inquires as he leans forward to examine the image.

The guard nods and returns the image back to the folder. "Correct, they are precision tools. And by the looks of it, by somegriff very skilled in the craft. Which weren't around when this armor was first crafted, less it was made very recent."

Celestia frowns slightly after hearing this. She then leans in closer and attempts to view the contents of the folder. "Are there any surviving inscriptions on the armor? Something that may lead us to whoever it used to belong to."

There is your majesty. Most of it seems to still legible. Hm, 'ad interfectorem', The guard mutters to herself. "Ejusque? custos." She adds with a sour look on her face

"That's Latin," Sonic comments as he rises from the floor.

Celestia nods solemnly. "That it correct, it was a popular tradition in early Griffon culture to inscribe the titles you gained during great battles onto your armor." She frowns. "Unfortunately, for a while, it as seen as a rank, since many would have similar titles inscribed onto their armor; this was also copied in the recreations later on."

Sanguis remains fixed onto the folds contents as she continues to flips through a few more pages. "That's a given, everygriff know that. However," She holds up a picture of what remained of the assassins breastplate and taps a section of it with one of her talons. "The symbols around the wording is indigenous to where the solder was originally from and is considered a great dishonor to misrepresent if not from that same area." She then places the image back with the others and continues to search the documents. "So, either this was a soldier from that period, one from the area that made a 'tribute set later on,' or a very dishonorable one who wanted to try and fool others with incorrect markings."

"I never knew that," The elder alicorn comments as she presses her lips together.

"Neither did we, sister," Luna adds with a slight nod.

The guard flips to another page before responding. "It's not exactly common knowledge these days. The act fell out of practice long before the use of this 'iconic' armor did." She looks up at the alicorn. "The only reason I know this is because my grandfather has an original set in his study and would often talk about it if you're willing to listen."

"This is all fascinating, but what does it have to do with our current situation?" Luna asks with a slightly annoyed tone.

Sanguis holds another image of the assassin's armor; of its right front gauntlet. "Originally these were heavily enchanted to withstand most magic. So, to actually do any damage to it, you had to have a very powerful weapon or be a high-level magic user."

"Interfectorem magni Regis?" The hedgehog tilts his head. "Whoever this was, took down a powerful ruler and left the armor mostly the same after." He adds pointing to a huge gash that runs from the tip to the talon guard to almost the forearm.

The guard's eyes widen while she turns the picture over and glances at the image. "The tales never mentioned anything regarding a high-level spellcaster or that they possessed a magic-infused broad sword. So whoever wielded it, was of high standing. Any idea who that would be your highness?" She looks back up to the two alicorns but is only met with silence. Sonic does the same and is treated to similar treatment.

"Sunny?...Nim?"

Both princesses appear pale each with a worried look on their faces. Luna continuously opens and closes her mouth as if try to forms a response; while Celestia's nostrils flared as she keeps taking a deep breath as if trying to calm herself down.

Sonic and Sanguis exchange looks before turning back towards the two alicorns.

"Uh, you two ok?" Sonic inquires as he takes a few tentative steps towards the princesses.

"Interfectorem magni Regis," The sun goddess replies in a shaky tone, breaking the silence. "The great king slayer." She takes in a steady breath before continuing. "He's the griffon that had a hoof in my father's demise."

"With an enchanted blade that was forged with very twisted magic," Luna adds with a grim expression. She then turns to the hippogryph. "That...thing you fought this morning. Was it wielding a giant crimson sword?" The princess inquires with a stern tone. "It would have been several feet long with an ornate decoration on its hilt."

The Sentinel shakes her head. "No ma'am, they were was carry an ancient war ax that shattered during the attack.

Luna presses her lips and lets out a small sigh. "Oh course, that would be too easy. She grumbles to herself. "Lieutenant."

A patrolling pegasus guard stops and turns towards the princess. "Yes, your highness."

"Send a detachment to the shipyard and search those vessels that were seized earlier today." The princes' commands, but is met with a confused look. "Why are you still standing there? I gave you an order."

The guard opens his mouth to speak, but is cut off by the sun goddess. "You heard my sister, go on now." Celestia snaps with a hint of annoyance in her voice; causing the guard to flinch. "Tear them apart if you must, but have a suppressor handle the blade." The princess takes a slow breath through her muzzle when the guard remains in the same spot. "Dismissed!"

With a small yelp, the guard quickly salutes the group and makes a beeline down the hallway; gaining a few odd looks as he does so.

Celestia taps her forehead with a hoof and lets out a small sigh. "It's been over a year since my sisters return. And the guards still hesitate to follow her orders."

"Tis a minor inconvenience." The Moon Goddess muters herself.

"No, it's messed up. "The hedgehog snaps with a slight snarl. "There is no excuse for those guys to second guess everything you say or do. Nym, you have just as much authority around here as your sister does. It's the both of you that rule this place. We need to make them see that..." Sonic is cut off in his tangent as he's pulled into a warm hug by the Moon Goddess.

Luna lets out an amused giggle as speedster go abruptly silent by her action. "Such fire and determination. I don't believe I've ever seen this side of you before."

"Sorry, I just got a bit worked up." The hedgehog replies with a small sigh as he looks up at the alicorn. "It's just not right, Nim. You shouldn't have to put up with that."

The alicorn frowns and looks away. "It will mostly likely take a while for others to become accustomed to my presence and position as a co-ruler." She then turns back to the speedster and gives him a small. "But hearing that you care, truly warms my heart. But also, why have you started calling me Nim?"

"Meh, it seemed appropriate," Sonic replies nonchalantly with a small shrug.

An amused smirk appears on the alicorn's face. "You never cease to amused me, Sonic."

The sound of someone loudly clearing their throat draws everyone's attention to a very annoyed the Sun Goddess. "Can we please get back to the topic at hoof? Plus, you're making a scene, Luna."

A mischievous expression appears on the Moon Goddess's face as she turns to the elder alicorn. "Art thou jealous, dear sister?"

"Preposterous, I merely wish to not draw attention to ourselves for such foolhardy behavior, Luna."

Sanguis looks around before turning back to the two alicorns. "But we're are alone? There is no Griffin in sight."

Sonic begins snickering, while still within the young alicorns grasps.

"Oh, you shut up."

The hedgehog holds a hand to his mouth as he steps out of the Moon Goddess's grasps. "Come on Sunny, lighten up." He quips, gaining a few amused laughs from the others, except the Sun Goddess; who just narrows her eyes at him. "Yesh, tough crowd." He adds scratching the back of his head. "Oh that's right," He snaps his fingers, upon realizing something. "What are the suppressors? I forgot to ask about that earlier."

"It's a particular type of magic user specially trained in handling and recovering enchanted or corrupt items." The elder alicorn responds. "They were originally formed when the Crystal Empire reappeared, and much of it was still under the former king's dark influence."

The hedgehog taps his chin as he glances at a group of passing guards. "Wait, I heard that crystal heart thing took care of it. So why train a team of suppressors if there is no treat?"

"Most of the empire was cleansed from the dark influence." The alicorn corrects. "There was still remnants of the corruption scattered around the kingdom. That if left unchecked would have started the process all over again."

"Neat," Sonic replies with a shrug, having long since stopped being able to follow the alicorn was saying. He then turns back to the hippogryph, who is now looking at the floor; twiddling her talons every so often. "Hey Red, what's up? You've been awfully quiet for the last few minutes."

Celestia turns to the downcast guard and seems to mirror the hedgehog's concern. "Is something on your mind, Rose?"

Sanguis continues to keep her sight fixed on the floor. "Apologies your majesty. I'm a bit conflicted regarding these recent developments. For somegriff to break in and desecrate the Hall of Heroes. Taking one of it's greatest champions to use in this...this twisted act is deplorable and..and"

"He was no hero, Sentinel." Luna corrects, having recovered from the previous escapades. "That ...thing you fought was a traitor and an enemy to Equestria. She adds in a tone dripping with disdain and hate.

The guard turns to the sun goddess for clarification but is only met with a sad nod. Sanguis lets out a small sigh before directing her attention back onto the floor. "All my life I was taught that Razor Wing was a hero. That he overthrew a corrupt government and slew a wicked, tyrannical king." She shutters and looks back up at the princess. "To find out that was 'possibly' all untrue. Is...hard to process."

"Who told you all this? Celestia inquires as she approaches the hippogryph.

Sanguis looks up at the princess with a sadden expression. "My grandfather spoke of Razor Wing in high regard. Often telling stories of past battles and great feats he accomplished." The guard takes a small breath before continuing. "He would often state that our family's legacy is thanks to descending from his greatness. That even my 'puny pony blood' wouldn't be able to diminish this "She lets out a small forced laugh. "But that latter part was probably an attempt to save face since my mother was no longer able to bear any more children after me."

The hippogryph suddenly notices a gloved hand on the crook of her neck. Sanguis turns to its source and is meet with a sympathetic hedgehog. "The guy sounds like a real piece of work. Don't give him the satisfaction by dwelling on something that's beyond your control. And 'apparent' lineage be damned. That shouldn't define you."

"Agreed," The Moon Goddess adds with a solemn nod.

The guard places an armored wing across the speedsters back. "Thank you," Sanguis then turns to the princess's' "Really, thank you. It's been something that's been hanging over my head for as long as I can remember." She then lets out a sad chuckle. "Which makes it all the more messed up that the whole thing's based on an old wise tale. That's probably almost as old as you are, princess."

This time it was the elder alicorn's turn be confused. "I don't' follow. What do you mean?"

Sanguis lets out a sigh before responding. "A few years back I did some research into if this. Since it always struck me as odd that we only had Mistress Sabre's armor and not his; since it's a tradition that armor is passed down the family line. Less the owner perishes while wearing it." She waves her right talon as if to say 'moving on' "During my search, I found that that the two served in the same unit during the early part of Razor Wing's military career. Eventually going their separate ways once they got reassigned." She then frowns. "But here's where it gets weird. The two married other individuals and were even on opposite sides during the 'rebellion.'"
The guard uses talon quotes when appropriate. "And there is no record of them having a child together. However, there is one of Sabre having a thrist with an unknown Gryphon and laying the egg out of wedlock. But to lie about it if it was his."

"Maybe the guy was a jerk, and she wanted the spare the kid of knowing," Sonic comments with a sympathetic tone,

Sanguis turns to the hedgehog and then to the floor. "Perhaps, but then how did this 'rumor get started?"

"It would have been that this Sabre lady kept secret who was her kid's dad was. Until after this rebellion thing was resolved. When it wouldn't have been a big thing to be related to this guy."

The guard snaps a talon in realization. "Of course, that makes so much sense. It would explain why my family never received his armor since there was no record of him having any offspring. He must have requested to be buried with it instead."

"It seems we are being ignored again," Luna comments as she turns to her elder sister.

The elder alicorn shakes her head. "No dear sister. We are merely witnessing our 'champion' in action."

"Yesh, don't say it like that." The hedgehog quips. "You make me sound like some politician. " This gains a laugh from the three. " I know this is out of left field, but did this Rahzar guy do exactly? That lead to all of this?"

"I too would like to know what transpired that day...The truth." The hippogryph adds.

Celestia lets out a heavy sigh and turns her attention to the duo.

~***~

"As you can see by section 3 of figure 7." A particular unicorn drones on before a very detailed series of drawing. Pointing to one every so often to emphasize her point. "That as we discussed earlier, mentioned on page 4, paragraph 2 that..."

The mare's tangent falls on deaf ears as the room's only other occupant sits in a plush chair; fighting to keep their eyes open. Much less pay attention to whatever it being said.

A loud crash emphasizes this as the Sol guardian falls from the chair and onto the floor. Twilight stops her rant and turns to the feline, just as she's springing to her feet.

"Blaze?"

"I-I'm up!" The guardian shouts as she takes a rigid stance.

The mare frowns as she uses her magic to place the point next to a nearby chalkboard and trots towards the feline. "You are such a bad liar." She teases and continues her approach. "You've been drifting in and out of consciousness for about an hour now."

"Apologies Ms. Twilight," Blaze begins in an apologetic tone. "I meant no disrespect. It's just the subject matter seemed forced and tended to repeat itself more than once."

Twilight blushed upon realization of her blunder and then smiles sheepishly. "No, I'm the one who should be sorry. I tend to get a bit wrapped up in certain subject matters and lose track of time.

"It's fine, Ms. Twilight. You were just trying to make a point and got a bit carried away."

"And was my point made?" The mare inquires with a nervous grin.

Blaze scratches the back of her head. "Possibly, though I must admit. I didn't catch the last portion of your lecture."

The mare rolls her eyes. "Very well then, I have one last thing to show you that will make my point."

"And what would be?" The Guardian asks with a hint of worry in her voice."

Twilight grins and powers up her horn. "Oh, just a new spell I've been working on."

"Twilight wait!" The feline shouts as her vision is consumed by a bright light.

Down The Rabbit Hole

The group of four walks in silence as the Sun Goddess leads the pack down the long corridor.

"I-I, I had no idea." a down hedgehog comments as he walks alongside the moon princess. " If I knew it was that painful to talk about, I wouldn't have asked."

Celestia lets out a heavy sigh and turns back towards the blue speedster. "It was a long time ago and..."

"It's still pretty messed up." The hedgehog interrupts. This guy was your father's right-hand man of sorts, and he betrayed him for some really shitty reason."

"Language," The Moon Goddess chastises.

"To think that one of our empire's most revered hero...was a fraud. Gives you a lot to think about." Sanguis gives the Sun Goddess a hesitant look. "Is my relation to that..that creation going to be an issue?"

Celestia responded with a shake of her head. "No, of course not, I can't fault you for something that's beyond your control. Plus, you've shown that heritage isn't a factor in defining a pony's merit."

"T-thank you, ma'am." The guard studders with a shaky bow.

The Princess approaches the guard. "Stand tall, Sentinel. I chose you for this position because of your tenacity and courage, not this." She then taps her chin with a hoof. "But I must ask; why do you believe me so easily? Despite being told the contrary for so long."

Sanguis rises and looks the alicorn in the eye. " You've given me no reason not to trust you. Plus, I always knew most of those stories growing up were mostly bullshit." She then sighs. "It's just a lot to take in, having someone confirm this. That he ended up being A traitor, a cheat, and a liar. He set up a coup to overthrow your father and then just killed him ...why?"

"That what I would like to know. If Razer wanted something he could have had it, but instead he just took it by force."

The hedgehog raises his hand."Hey, I hate to interrupt, but how did this guy last this long? Wouldn't his bones be dust and armor be rusted to nothing at this point? Given how long ago it was?"

"Under normal circumstances that would be true, however. Do to the magic seal placed upon the sanctum. It halts the process for as long as the body remains in the tomb." Sanguis replies with a solemn expression.

"Well, aren't you just chop full of useful information." Sonic comments with a slight grin. "Reminds me of a friend of mine back in ponyville."

The guard chuckles in response. "You give me too much credit. I just know a few things about Griffon history and battle tactics."

"Whoever did this, knew who this guy was and what connection it had to the princesses."

Luna retrieves the folder from the hippogryph and opens it. "And according to what my team found. It as removed from the crypt two weeks ago. Given the amount of body decomposition."

"Alright," Sonic announces as he smashing a fist into an open palm and starts making his way down the walkway. "We have a baseline of when this occurred. Let's talk to that crew that brought that thing over and..."

An alabaster wing appears in front of the hedgehog; blocking his pack. Sonic looks up to a particular sun goddess who has a sad expression on her face. "Sunny?"

"I Appreciate your enthusiasm, Sonic. I really do. But you can't just storm in their demanding answers." Celestia states as she lowers her wing.

"Why not?" The hedgehog asks with righteous indignation.

The princess lets out a sigh. "Because you're not a citizen of Equestria...well not an official one anyway. So, any information you may gain regarding this. Will be considered hearsay at best."

"Well then just work your magic and make me one." Sonic snaps with a hint of annoyance in his voice.

A wing is placed onto the hedgehog's shoulder. "Sonic, I can't just wave my hoof and make you a citizen. Forms have to be completed; paperwork has to be filled."

"Or you could just marry one of its citizens," Luna adds in a dismissive tone.

Sonic lets out a sigh and crosses his arms. "Ah, the slow gears bureaucracy at work." He then turns to the sun goddess as she removes her wing from his shoulder. "Wait, I thought Equestria was a monarchy."

"It is, but if I just can't make rulings, pass judgment or make proclamations on a whim." The sun Celestia snaps, but then places a hoof on her forehead and lets out a sigh. "Sorry, I'm just as frustrated by all this as you are."

"No, I'm the one who should be sorry." Sonic replies, holding up his hands. As much of his anger as subsided. "I got ahead of myself and took it out on you when I didn't get my way." He sighs "So, what can I do to help? That doesn't involve having to do a mountain of paperwork?"

The Princess smiles. "The best thing you can do is not to incite a panic. To keep what transpired here to yourself."

"Uh ok, what do you want me to say if anyone asks?"

Celestia leans closer and speaks in a hushed voice. "I want you to tell them that everything in fine that there is nothing to worry about."

"Why are we whispering?" The hedgehog inquires. "And why keeping everything hush, hush?"

"Because I suspect that somepony may have infiltrated our ranks and that we must be careful who to speak to about 'sensitive information." The alicorn gestures towards a shimmering dome around the group with one of her forelegs. "See this construct that surrounds us? It prevents anypony that we don't want out and keeps our conversation quiet."

The speedster glances around the dome before turning back towards the princess. "Ok, I have to admit that's actually kind of cool. I didn't even hear it go up when I got here."

Exactly."

"So, you just want me to tell anyone that asks that your handling and that not to worry?"

Celestia nods and places a foreleg over the hedgehog's shoulder and pulls him close. "The less they know, the better. We have a traitor, and I assure you we'll'' get to the bottom of this by days end."

"And I'll make sure that my sister makes sure that we flush out this rat," Luna adds with a slight smirk.

"As well as find out what motive they had for unleashing this monster upon our Lady Celestia," Sanguis adds with a firm nod.

The hedgehog looks up at the sun goddess. "So you plan on finding the mole and have them lead you to the one responsible for this. That makes sense. So, what can I do?"

"You can keep the peace. I have a very excitable student back in ponyville that will want to know what's going on. Assure her that everything is fine and that she shouldn't need to worry. " The princess smirks. "She can be very influential when she needs to be, so it is imperative that Twilight keeps a level head. Else this could get a whole lot worse. You know how over dramatic she can get."

Sonic lets out an amused laugh. "Yeah, She tends to exaggerate things on occasion. He takes a step back and glances at the trio. "I guess you guys have things covered here. I'm gonna head back."

"You sure, I could have a guard accommodate you with a room till we reach a solution."

The hedgehog responds with a dismissive wave. "Na, I'll just get in your way. I'll just head back and make sure Twilight doesn't blow a gasket or something."

"Very well then, I'll walk you out." The sun goddess replies as she begins escorting the hedgehog down a small hallway; while a green female unicorn in a lab coat walks up the moon goddess and begins to speak with her. " Actually, I'm going to need to transport you to about a mile outside of town. We are in lockdown at the moment, and I don't believe that they'll let you by without me escorting you out personally." She places a hoof on the hedgehog's shoulder. "Permission to transport?"

"Sure, just let me know if you find anything out. Ok?"

"Of course." The princess starts channeling magic into her horn. "You'll be the first to know."

As the hedgehog disappears, Sanguis appear from the princess's right. "Speak freely, Sentinel. I suspect you have something to say."

"He holds you in high regards. Doesn't he?" The princess nods to confirm this. "A rather honorable trait that he cares for the individual, rather than what they stand for."

Celestia Laughs in response. "One doesn't simply run across half a continent, less they need to."

"I get the feeling he'd probably do it for fun." The guard replies with an amused chuckle.

The alicorn nods. "Perhaps, but my point still stands.

"Understood," Sanguis twiddles her talon together before continuing. "Would it be unfounded that I noticed that you see that hedgehog in a similar fashion?"

"Not at all," Celestia answers candidly as she starts making her way down the corridor"I have made no attempt at keeping that a secret."

"And I take it that also applies to your sister?"

The Sun Goddess turns to the guard and gives her a flat look; inciting an uneasy reaction from them. "My sister chooses to express herself very opening. While I've advised her against this, she continues to do so." Celestia then starts scanning the hallway. "Speaking of which where did sister run off to?"

"Oh, one of the scientists came by, said her presence was needed," Sanguis replies hesitantly

"Very well, then let's leave her to it." The sun goddess motions to guard to follow "Come along Sentinel, we have much to do."

"Yes, ma'am." Sanguis nods with an enthusiastic nod.

~Elsewhere~

"Are the reports accurate?" The moon goddess asks as she levitates a clipboard in front of her face.

"Yes, your majesty, we followed your order precisely, but if you don't mind me asking. What do you plan on doing with it...that is if it's something I should know The mare inquires as she trots alongside the alicorn.

The alicorn passes through a set of double doors and towards the charred remains of the Draugr. "I merely wish to seek answers." Dark magic begins to surround the princesses horn. "By any means necessary."

~***~

Alongside a dusty road, a large deer emerges from a dense forest that runs along the side of it. Massive antlers jut out from his head. Signifying both is age and combat prowess; should another animal bee foolish enough to cross paths with him. The buck scans both sides of the roadway before turning back to the cluster of trees and signaling for someone to follow.

A small doe emerges next. Easily dwarfed by the giant buck. She steps out and looks around; making slow and precise steps. The buck rolls his eyes and motions for her to follow again.

"Come along now; there's nothing out here that's going to hurt us."

"Yeah, you do this everything we cross any roadway or stream." A small voice shouts as several small faces can be seen behind the timid doe.

The small doe turns towards the now three small deer as they emerge from the canopy. "You can never be too careful. There's always something out there that is out to get us."

"Bah, you're just paranoid." The buck responds with a wave of his hoof. "Nothing out here is to get us."

Just as those words leave the deer's mouth, a loud pop can be heard in the distance, just as the sound barrier is broken. The group freezes in place as a streak of blue comes barreling towards them.

"What did I tell you!" The doe shouts. "Now we're going to be...hun?"

Just as the unknown object is about to tear through the group, a gloved hand is placed on the doe's back as the projectile springs over the group and continues for a few moments before a certain blue hedgehog can be seen skidding to a stop a few feet away.

"Hey sorry about that. Is everyone alright?" The speedster asks as he begins walking towards the group.

The Buck opens his mouth to talk, but is cut off as three small deer run towards the hedgehog and start overwhelming him with questions. "How did you do that?" A small buck asks with a huge grin on his face.

"You're Sonic aren't you? That is so cool." A little doe asks with a smile that could rival her brothers.

"I bet you blow through those weird things on your feet. Who makes those?" The smallest of the bunch asks as he appears alongside his sister.

Sonic holds up his hands in defense at the barrage of questions. "Calm down you three. I can only answer one question at a time."

"Then answer this one." The buck roars with a commanding voice. "Why did you..."

A loud explosion echos in the distance. Drawing everyone's attention to a huge plume of smoke as it rises above the tree line.

"Gotta go, rain check ok?" The hedgehog hastily replied, Not waiting for an answer as he takes off in a blast of speed.

~***~

Heavy coughing can be heard as certain feline attempts to wave the smoke away from her face. "Ms. Twilight, I believe that wasn't supposed to happen.

"I know," Another voice can be heard as another figure can be seen through the thick veil of smoke. "Quick find a window. I can clear this out after that."

Before either of them can react. The front door is flung open, and a blue hedgehog can be seen on the other side of it.

"Blaze, Twilight? You guys in here?" The speedster shouts as he steps into the library.

More coughing can be heard before gaining a response. "Yeah, we’re in here. Quickly find a window, before we all get asphyxiated." Twilight shouts before she starts coughing again.

The hedgehog complies and zips around the room; opening every window on the first floor.

"Alright, everypony hold on to something. Twilight shouts as a spire of light can be seen through the haze.

A gust of wind blast through the library. Making short work of the suffocating smoke, but also blows several loose papers across the floor. With many of them sticking to the furniture and other fixtures; one even covering the hedgehog's face. As the smoke clears, Blaze can be seen crouched on the floor. While another figure can be seen standing near the reading circle.

The feline lets out a small groan as she rises from the floor and brushes away a few articles of parchment that had clung to her during the ordeal. “Phew, that was intense.” She then looks around. “Is everyone alright?”

“Phey whink sow,” Comes a muffled reply from the speedster as a gloved hand begins to reach for the paper covering his face.

Blaze smirked in response and begins to approaches the hedgehog to assist, but abruptly stops as something catches her eye. “Twilight, is that you?” The feline asks cautiously as she turns to the unknown entity; who still mostly hidden in the rapidly clearing smoke.

“Y-yeah, I think so.” A shaky voice reples as the figure steps through the rapidly dissipated smoke.

“Good, because I need to ask you something very important.” Blaze says in an eerily calm voice.

“Sure, what would you like to know?” The unicorn replies in a chipper tone.

“Whats up with that form and WHY ARE YOU NAKED?” The feline shouts as she turns to the individual and points at them in a demanding fashion.

Sonic tears off the paper from his face at light speed to see what all the commotion is about and what nonsense the Guardian is spouting. “Of course Twilight is nude, she’s always been since I met...her?” As the hedgehog's eyes focus he trails off as the sight before him.

A figure covered in matted fur stands before him. Most of in individuals fur are of a pale green color, but bits of lavender can be seen in various spots. The hedgehog recalls only seeing this color on only one individual; who just this morning was also covered in an odd ointment that gave them a similar shade. However, that person stood on four legs and was several feet shorter than him. While this individual is significantly taller; probably coming to his collarbone if his assumption was correct. Who now stands on two legs and possessed two arms. Which now hang limply at its side. While the face remains somewhat similar; admit slightly smaller and a change in shape. It now is atop a small petite/ slight hourglass type anthropodermic frame.

The hedgehog blinks a few times as he opens his mouth; trying to form a reply to what’s before him. “Twilight...??” He manages to force out as he still attempts to process the situation.

Twilight grins sheepishly and begins to approach the bewildered Sonic.As the last of the smoke disappears, and her form is now fully visible. “It sure is, what do you think?”

“I think...youch!” The hedgehog is cut off as a set of hands covers his eyes in very forceful fashion.

“He thinks you should put on some clothes on, make yourself decent.” The feline interrupts as she appears behind hedgehog and covers his eyes with her hands.

Sonic removes the guardians’ hands from his face and slowly turns back to her. “You need to relax, Blaze. This obviously just happen, so she’s probably still processing.” He then turns back to transformed mare and smirks. “While I don’t mind it, you should probably go find something to wear. It’s apparently making Blaze uncomfortable.”

“U-uh ok,” The mare nods and starts making shaky steps towards the stairs.

The hedgehog then turns to the feline. “Why don’t you go with her. So she doesn’t faceplant on her way there.” Blaze nods and goes after Twilight.

Sonic collapses onto one of the plush reading chairs with a heavy sigh. Tilting his head back and looking around the now empty room.

Shuffling and movement can be heard on the upper level. With someone letting out a shriek, followed by the sound of something falling onto the floor. The hedgehog springs from his seat and starts making his way towards the stairs.

“Hey, is everything alright up there?”

“Yeah, were fine.” Blaze calls back. “Twilight tripped over the rug.”

“I-I did not,” The mare retorts as several loud stomps can be heard.

“Oh, really? Then what do you call it? Having an extreme close up inspection with the floor?”

This gets a chuckle from the hedgehog. “You two play nice now. Don’t make me come up there.” He jokes while making his way back to the chair.

“No need, we’re on our way down.” Twilight calls back as two sets of footsteps can be heard making their way towards the staircase.

Blaze is the first to come into view. Now with several green hand prints dotted all over her body. This gains an amused smirk from the speedster, but he quickly restrains himself. When the feline gives him a death glare. Twilight is the next to descend the staircase, Still, in her new form, she is now wearing an undersized bathrobe that looks about ready to burst open.

Sonic rises from his seat and greets the two as they make their way back into the library’s reading room. “Yesh, what happened to you, Blaze?”

“Twilight kept falling into me when we were trying to find something for her to wear.” The feline replies with a slight huff. “Had I known that the ointment was still wet. I would have just grabbed her a towel.”

The hedgehog points a thumb to the now robed mare. “Well, that explains the bathrobe.”

“Correct,”

“So, what brought on this change?” The speedster inquires as he gestures to the transformed mare; who is fiddling with her bathrobe. “Not that I mind, I’m just curious.”

“Twilight wanted to..”

“It’s a new spell I've been working on.” The unicorn interrupts as she takes a step forward. “It’s one that I came up with to study what it would be like to walk around like you guys.” She grins smugly. “I believe I was able to pull it off. What do you think?”

Sonic shrugs and walks towards the mare. “Honestly, I don’t know. I kind of wondered what you ponies would look like as Moebian, but that’s kind of it.” Twilight begins to deflate in response to the hedgehog's reply. “But, that’s not to say I don’t like it. It’s different; I'll say that.”

Twilight brings a hand to her face and begins to twiddles her fingers. “It’s strange, I’ve seen you and Blaze use this strange appendages, but to actually have a set that I can control. Is an odd sensation in itself.” She looks down and wiggles her toes. “And to balance on only two of legs, rather than four has taken a lot to get used to.”

“So, what did you find out from the Princess when you took off to Soleanna this morning?” The feline inquires, steering the conversation elsewhere.

The speedster scratches his head. “Soleanna? Is that what that place was called? I guess I never asked when I was there.” He then turns to the guardian. “Does that name sound familiar to you? I get the feeling I've heard it before.”

“You’re right it does.” The feline replies. “Can’t recall where I heard it from, but I get the strange feeling I've been to a place going by that name...odd.”

“You’re getting sidetracked, what did you find out?” The mare interrupts with a hint of annoyance in her voice.

“Oh um,” The hedgehog begins, but then recalls the request the Sun Goddess had, regarding keeping this under wraps. “There getting to the bottom it. Sunny’s got some brute of a guard tagging along now. So, no more surprise encounters.”

The mare tilts her head. “A guard, what kind of guard.”

“Oh, it’s this hippogryph...I think I’m saying that right.” Sonic cringes slightly as if having trouble finishing. “She’s a bit taller than Gilda and is decked out in this sweet armor. Sunny will be all right.”

Blaze brings a hand to her face and begins tapping her chin. “Oh Gilda, Is that the griffon we met in the market earlier today, while in Bartertown?”

“Yep,”

The two ladies visibly relax as if a huge weight taken off their shoulders. “Phew, I was worried there for a second,” Twilight comments as she whips her brow.

“A second?” The feline jests with a small laugh. “You were getting downright hysterical over it.” The mare grumbles something under her breath and turns way. “ I too was concerned about this, but It seems that we all ended up getting worked up for nothing.” She then glances at herself and grimaces. “Now, if you’ll excuse me. I need to get changed. I’ll be back in a moment.”

As the feline leaves the room, Twilight watches her go before approaching the hedgehog. “Hey, can I talk to you for a second?”

“Sure, what’s up?”

The mare grabs the speedster hand and begins leading him to a small secluded section of the library. “Come with me; it’s kind of important.”

“Ease up Purple Smarts; I’m coming.” The hedgehog jokes as he’s pulled further into the building.

Twilight releases his hand and turns back towards him. “Sorry, this has been on my mind since earlier today, and I really need some confirmation on something.”

“Sure what’s up?”

Conflicting Interests

Conflicting Interests

Smiling sheepishly, the mare places both of the hedgehog’s shoulders. And promptly pushes him into the adjacent wall; knocking a few books onto the floor in the process. The speedster opens his mouth to make a comment but is cut off by the mare.

“Sorry, if this is a bit forceful.” The unicorn mutters as she closes the gaps between herself and the hedgehog, takes a small calming breath, and then begins to kiss him passionately.

This catches Sonic off guard for a moment, but he quickly recovers and begins to return to action with force. Twilight moans softly in response and wraps her arms around the hedgehog’s torso. Sonic does in same and only then realizes that the troublesome bathrobe as comes untied and is now open. This doesn’t deter the speedster from continuing, rather it motivates him to go further. Since there isn’t some huge knot jabbing him in the stomach.

As the two break for air, the two star at each other in silence as they catch their breath. Sonic is the first to speak up, but not break his grasp from the mare.

“Well, that was intense. What brought that on?”

Twilight looks gown and begins to draw small circles on top the hedgehog’s chest. “I just had to confirm something.”

“And what would that be?”

The mare smiles. “That I'm still into stallions and still very much into you.” She leans forward and gives the hedgehog a small kiss to emphasize this.

“I don’t understand, what brought this on?” The hedgehog inquires as he runs his hand down the mare’s back. Inciting a soft moan in response. “A bit sensitive aren’t we?”

Twilight frowns and wraps her arms around the hedgehog once more. “That’s what I was troubling me. For some reason that I can’t explain. I’m extremely sensitive to even the slightest touch from anypony right now. Which made things a tad awkward between Blaze and myself when she assisted me in applying that ointment earlier today.” She adds while looking away.

“I’m gonna take a shot in the dark here, but what if it’s the ointment that made you super sensitive to well... everything?” The hedgehog comment as he runs his hand up the mare’s back, inciting another shiver. “See, that wasn’t even the slightest bit erotic, and you just acted as if it was.”

The mare blinks as she process this. “You know I bet you’re right. It certainly would explain things.” She then hugs the speedster and gives him another kiss. “You have no idea how happy this makes me. I was beginning to think something was wrong with me. That maybe I might be into…”

“Hey, where did everyone go?” A familiar voice shouts as footsteps can be heard in the other room.

“Well, that was fast.” The hedgehog comments as he glances in the direction the sound came from.

Twilight nods in response. “Yeah, it was a bit…” The mare trails off and cringes. “Ah, crap.”

“What? What’s wrong?”

The mare takes a step back. “You’re all green. Blaze is going to freak out if she sees you like that.” She replys as she starts channeling magic into her horn.

“Wait what are you…” The rest of the question the hedgehog had is cut off as he disappears in a flash of pink light.

Blaze rounds the corner, just as the magic dissipates. “What are you doing over here?”

Twilight fiddles with her rode and reties the knot before turning back towards the feline. “Sorry, I was just fixing my robe.” She grins nervously, hoping the Guardian will believe her bluff.

The feline narrows her eyes. “And where is Sonic?”

A loud crash can be heard upstairs. “Uh, bathroom?

Blaze raises an eyebrow in response and is about to comment, but trails off as the sound of running water can be heard.

“See,”

With a sigh, the feline pinches the bridge of her nose. “Twilight, I know what you two were doing, and I'd appreciate it if you didn’t lie to me about it.”

“And what do you ‘think’ we were doing?” The mare asks smugly as she crosses her arms across her chest.

Blaze face palms with an audible smack. “Twilight, don't get coy with me. I’m not in the mood.” The feline slowly slides her hand away from her face. “I was going to wait till later to discuss this with you, but it would appear this is as good a time as any.” She takes a firm stance. “You need to ease up your actions when around Sonic.”

Twilight opens her mouth to comment but is cut off by a definitive point. “Let me finish. Everyone needs to do this, myself included. We’ve started to devolve into a bickering bunch of children to this, and it needs to stop.” The feline crosses her arms. “I’ve addressed this to everyone already, but uncertainty still hangs in the air on how we should resolve this.”

The mare tilts her head. “How do you mean?”

“We need to all agree to act civil to one another, regarding our feelings for a certain blue hedgehog. It’s become apparent that all this infighting between our friends is starting to weigh on him.” The feline replys as she relaxes her stance.

Twilight this time narrows her eyes. “You just want us to back off, so you can swoop in yourself and take him.”

“Do you hear yourself!” The feline snaps. “This is what I'm talking about. Earlier today I had every intention of finally telling Sonic my real feelings. But didn't when he told me how all this senseless bickering is driving a wedge between us.” Blaze places her hands onto the mare’s shoulders. “We need to stop this or else we’ll just drive him away.”

“Ok, I’m listening. What did you have in mind?”

The feline removes her arms and takes a step back. “Talk to everyone about this and explain to them how this is affecting Sonic. And all agree to be civil to whoever wins his heart and not despite them for it.” She locks eyes with the mare. “Can you help me with this.”

Several feet away, a certain blue hedgehog stands, listening to conversate about his well being. Originally not intending to eavesdrop on the conversation. The speedster still has a now green tinted towel draped over his shoulders. A blank expression appears on his face as he processes what he just heard. Especially what one particular feline had just said.

“That would explain some things.” He mutters to himself.

“Speaking of which where is Sonic?” Twilight inquires as she looks around. “He should have been back by now. I wonder if something happened.”

“I’m sure it’s nothing.” The feline replies in a calming tone. “But maybe we should go locate him, just in case.”

Sonic freezes in place for a second, but then starts frantically looking around; knocking his towel off his shoulders in the process. As the footsteps draw near, the hedgehog goes for the direct approach and starts stomping his feet towards where the two were located.

“Hey, guys sorry about that,” Sonic calls out as he rounds the corner and meets up with the two. “That took a bit longer than I thought.”

“I wonder why.” The feline replies flatly as she turns to the mare and gives her an unamused look.

Twilight takes a step back in response. “Hey, what happened this morning really weirded me out. I have to confirm something.” She relaxes her stance. “But now that I have, I can study this new form and..”

The mare goes into a tangent, entirely obvious to who else is around her. Prompting the feline to let a sigh and turn her attention back to the hedgehog.

“Now, look what you did. She’ll going on about that for hours.” Sonic jests as he then gestures to something behind him with a thumb. “I’m going to get a bite. You guys want anything?”

Blaze shakes her head. “I’m fine, but thank you.”

“I just had something or else I would. Plus I have to wait till this wears off before I got outside.” The mare adds gesturing to herself and then proceeds to go back into her tangent.

Sonic chuckles in response and starts making his way towards the front door. “I guess I’ll see you guys later.” He turns back towards the two. “Less you two need help with something or..”

“I’ll be okay Sonic..” The feline responds as she takes a few steps towards the hedgehog. “I’ve hand enough excitement for today. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

The hedgehog then turns to where Twilight once stood and notices the mare still in mid-tangent; frantically scribbling notes and equations onto a giant chalkboard. “And she’ll be at for a while. So that’s out.”

Turning back towards the door, the speedster starts making his way towards the exit. “See ya,” As he turns the knob and opens the door. Derpy can be seen with a letter in her mouth. “Sup Bubbles?”

“Speweshel dewiverary,” The gray pegasus replies; her voice muffled by the letter still in her mouth.

Sonic reaches down and grabs the letter from the mare’s muzzle. “Is this for me?”

Derpy shakes her head. “Sorry Sonic, but I already have your new address.” She gestures to the letter. “That’s for Twilight. Rarity asked me to bring it over asap. Said it would be the…”

“The worst possible thing if I didn’t” The two say in a tangent. Inciting an amused giggled from the mare.

Sonic glanced at the letter and the overly ornate writing on it. “Hun must be that spa invitation she was going on about.” He turns back towards the mare. “I’ll make sure she get’s this.” The hedgehog turns back towards the library. “Hey Twilight, you have a letter from Rarity. Should I just leave it on the table or…” His words are cut off as the letter is surrounded by a pink shimmer of magic and levitated in the direction Twilight was doing her calculations. “Neat,” The speedster comments as he watches the letter disappear from sight.

“That’s kind of standard thing around here.” Derpy comments as she side steps so Sonic can pass. “But it’s still kind of cool to see it in action.”

The hedgehog closes the door behind him, steps past the mare, and onto the stone landing. “It sure is.” He then gestures to town center with his thumb. “Hey, I’m going to get a late lunch. You interested in coming along?”

“Sorry, I have plans.” The pegasus responses with a shake of her head. “The Doctor is taking me to some banquet in Prance and…” She suddenly covers her mouth with a hoof. “Wait I wasn’t supposed to tell anypony.”

Sonic laugh and begins to walk away. “Tell me what? I didn’t hear anything. You were just here to drop off that letter.

The two share a short laugh before parting way to their respectable locations.

~Meanwhile~

As the library’s door latches shut. Blaze lets out a heavy sigh and starts making her way toward the steps for some much needed rest. However, something heavy and soft catches her foot. Prompting the guardian to look down and notice a green stained towel crumbled up into a ball on the floor.

Picking it up, she notices a hit of soap and a certain hedgehog's scent on it. Letting out a gasp, the towel falls to the floor as look of horror is now on the felines face.

“What did he hear?” She whispers critically to herself as she glances at the front door of the library. Where muffled talking can be heard. Signifying that Sonic hasn’t left yet and is still outside. The feline takes a few steps towards the door, but stops as she notices the voices outside suddenly stop.

Having already made most of the trip, Blaze flings open the door and doesn’t see any sign of the hedgehog or whoever he was talking to. The feline grumbles to herself and slams the door in frustration.

~***~
In a dimly room a towering Griffin; gilded in heavy steel armor. Stands over a small unicorn stallion dressed in standard ‘Castle Armor’ sitting at a small table. Looking down at it in shame and disgust. A folder is haphazardly tossed onto the table by the guard; some of its contents spilling out upon it’s landing.

“General we can go about this two ways.” The griffon begins in a booming voice. “You can tell me everything you know about today's event and what your involvement was.” He grins. “Or you can keep sitting there wallowing in your self-pitting and wait till Celestia comes in and asks you herself.” The guard places a talon on the table. “If I were you, I’d come clean now. Since otherwise, you’ll answer to the Princess personally.” He leans further forward. “And she’s not too thrilled about what you and your cronies tried to pull today.”

The guard laughs and looks up at the Griffin. “You have no idea what’s going on here. You think I'm the only one involved in this. HA.” He slams a hoof onto the table. “The great one has gathered many of us to aid them in bringing the almighty one into our world.” He begins to laugh maniacally. “Equestria will burn by Summer's end.” The guard then burst into another fit of laughter but is abruptly stopped as the griffon strikes the guard across the side of the head; knocking them onto the floor.

Unsheathing his sword the guard points it at the crazed unicorn. “That’s enough out of you. It’s clear that this goes way beyond whatever stunt you and gain were trying to pull.”

Blinking the stallion looks around and then cringes as she notices the point of the sword hovering an inch from his face. “W-where am I? Why am I here.” He touches his face with a hoof. “Why does my face hurt.” He begins to tremble as he looks up at the Griffin. “Domino, what did I do? I can’t remember anything since yesterday!”

The griffon now known as Domino lowers his sword, lets out a heavy sigh, and makes his way towards the door. “Get a suppressor in here; we got another one.”

~***~

In a small cloud home above the town of Ponyville, a certain hedgehog enters; carrying a small paper bag with the logo of ‘Hay Burger’ printed on it. The speedster shuts the door behind him and looks around.

“Dash, you home?” He holds up the bag. “I brought lunch and..Phah!” A streak of cyan flashes before the hedgehog’s eyes just before being knocked to the ground and having the small bag knocked out his hand.

~Elsewhere~

In the castle training grounds. The newly promoted captain of the Royal guard stands before the recent recruits. Each is trying and failing to complete the standard training regiment laid out before them. Ironside lets out a heavy sigh and face hoofs with an audible ding from his armored hoof hitting his helmet.

“That’s enough ladies, hit the showers.” He roars in a commanding, but disappointing tone. “Mark my works, you cream puff. I’ll make soldiers out of you yet!” The captain adds as the troops depart; many of them groaning in response to the Captain's declaration. Once everyone has departed, the pegasus lets out a heavy sigh and glanced around the now empty training area. “It just might take a bit more work with this bunch.” He adds in a solemn tone.

Having finished his duties for the day, the Captain glances around the arena once more before discarding his armor and taking a flight to an unknown location.

~***~

Weaving around the seedy streets of an unknown location. The captain; now wearing a set of brown robes. Glances at some of the what the city’s inhabitants are doing. Just as he's confronted by several large cloaked figures.

“Were you followed,” One of them asks in a quiet whisper.

The guard takes a stern stance. “Of course not, I know how to shake a tail. You have what I asked for?”

“That depends,” Another one of the figures begins in a slightly higher pitched whisper. “Do you have what we requested?”

Ironside reaches into his cloak and removes a small manila envelope. The figure closets take the envelope in a shimmer of pale green magic, opens it and begins to examine its contents. “Excellent, C124 is all yours and is eager to fulfill our end of this...exchange.”

A small cloaked figure steps forth and removes its hood. Relieving themselves to look exactly like a certain lavender mare. “You ready to go, darling?” She asks with a grin in an eerily familiar voice.

The guard stares at the cloaked mare for a few moments, as he processes what’s before him. “That is remarkable. You look and sound just like her.”

“I take my assignment very seriously. While I may not be original, That doesn’t stop us from having a little fun.” She lids her eyes. “So you ready or do you want to keep gawking at me all day?”

This shakes the guard from his stupor and prompts him to motion the mare to follow. “Ready when you are. Do you know how to teleport? Or else this is going to get complicated.”

“Of course, I wouldn’t be good at what I do If I wasn’t.” A green light begins to channel around her horn. “Ready?”

“Ready.”

The two disappear in a flash of green light. Still facing the spot where the original ‘transaction’ took place the remaining cloaked figures turn to one another. “He is becoming most useful; I suggest we keep assisting in this little fantasy of his to gather more information.” One of the figures suggests.

One of the other figures nods. “Agreed, we shall keep him ‘entertained’ till he proves no use for us.”

“Or maybe we play along for now and then turn him to our side through this agreement of ours.” A third one suggests as they turn to the others.

The largest of the group steps forth. “Only as a last resort. He’s too much of a high profile target. It too risky to have him suddenly change sides at this time.”

“Agreed,” The others nod in compliance.

“Let us depart and meet again should the situation call for it.” The large figure commands as a pale light can be seen shining from his hood.

In a flash of light, the group departs, and the alleyway is unoccupied once more.

On the rooftop of a nearby building, a pale yellow female Pegasus pulls away a set of binoculars that she had been using to spy on the event. Taping a small device lodged in her ear a small smile appears on her face. “Get me the boss; he’ll want to hear about this.”

Ghosts of the past

Chapter 25

The warm rays of the morning sun shimmer across the landscape; most of which still damp from the still lingering fog that slowly fades with the rising sun. Plants and shrubbery dot the area. With some even coiling around marble pillars; resulting in small flower blooms of various colors. That circle the area and forming a small sitting area. With several benches and a stone walkway that connects everything in the same of an ornate symbol.

Muffled voices echo in the distance as different shadows are seen moving about, but most of which is tuned out by a very bored young female pony with an alabaster coat. Who sits at one of the benches, staring off into space as another figure beside them attempts to get the young mare's attention.

Donning several pieces of ornate golden regalia consisting of a small tiara atop her head, encrusted with several precious stones and engravings. A breastplate that extends to just before her withers with similar markings as her tiara and consisting of more stonework. Worn over a white silk dress; that complements her coat. Hoof coverings with more stones and engravings. Alone with her vibrant pink mane and tail weaved in an integrated set of braids; with strips of gold crisscrossing throughout

However, the young mare seems to care little of these articles of her status in any regard. The Tira, while still atop her head, sits at a jaunty angle. Her dress bunched up and crumples in several areas and some parts even touching the ground as the filly continues to slouch on the bench. With her braided mane and tail share a similar fate, as they sit coiled up and hanging loosely on the bench.

Letting out a sigh, the young princess slouched further into her seat; trying to find a more comfortable position. That is until an alabaster hoof smacks her on the back of the head. Breaking her away from the daze and prompts the mare to turn towards her attacker.

An unamused mare a few years older than herself is what the young filly first notices as she turns her head. Calming blue eyes stare back at the mare; relaxing slightly as the princess flinches a bit upon seeing them. A pristine white coat covers the mare. With a small crown perched on her head; just above a small horn. With a sea green mane and tail cascading across her back and spilling over the side of the bench, Though the most defining trait of the mare; other than her flawless coat and odd colored mane and tail, is a set of transparent insect-like wings on her back. With two large ones; with an ornate swirling pattern on them. Forming an almost tear drown shape and a set of small ones in a similar way but without the pattern.

The mare’s wing flair in annoyance as she slowly retracts her hoof.

“Were you nodding off just now?” She asks while leaning closer to the princess; Who rears back in response “Because if you were…” The corners of her lips start to curl upwards as a huge grin appears on her face. “I’m gonna have to punish ya.”

The filly attempts to leap off the bench. “No, no, no,” A magic field surrounds the mare; stopping her mind jump and pins her onto the bench. “No fair,” She whines and makes a futile attempt to get away as the other mare closes the gap. As the young princess accepts her fate, she begins whimpering and closes her eyes. “Please just make it quick.”

A muffled laugh comes from the other mare as the princess cringes; awaiting her 'punishment.' The figure beside her makes a weak attempt at holding back her amusement as she holds one of her forelegs to her muzzled. “Yesh Tia, I was only messing with you. Get up I'm not going to hurt you.”

The small; still frightened princess slowly cracks an eye open. “Y-you're not?”

“Of course not,” The other mare responses with a hint of annoyance in her voice.” Now sit up, you’re making a scene.” She adds with a lower tone, suddenly gesturing towards a small crowd of onlookers, who have ceased their conversations and are now watching the two.

A small blush appears on the filly now known as Tia’s face as she sits upright and adjusts her attire to look more presentable. The small crowd satisfied or have lost interest return to their conversation; leaving the two mare’s alone and to their own devices.

“That was uncalled for, Poppy” The young princess pouts as she puffs out her cheeks and crosses her forelegs across her chest. “I haven’t ascended yet and didn't have any way to fight back.”

The other young mare leans back on the bench and lets out a small laugh; much to the young princess’s annoyance as her pout increases. Noticing this the mare drapes her left foreleg over the filly's back and pulls her close. “Don’t worry, Tia. In no time you will ascend and become a powerful ruler. And help lead this nation into a new golden age.” She punctuates thrusting her right foreleg into the sky. Poppy then lowers her leg and turns back to the filly. “It will be glorious, and I will be by your side every step of the way.”

“R-really?” The young princess studders as her eyes go wide. “You would do that for me?”

Poppy nods and removes her foreleg. “Of course, our families have been united for generations. We’ve both stood by one another even when we’ve been at our weakest.” The mare lets out an amused snort and turns her attention forward. “Had one of us been born a stallion. Our parents probably would have married us off to one another by now.” She then turns back toward the princess. “So, unless Starry Sky gives birth to a new little brother for you, we’re both going to have some big shoes to fill when we each take rule.”

“I know,” Tia mutters as she slouches in her seat. “Sometimes, I don’t think I’ll live up to what everypony expects of me.”

A brightly colored wing is laid across the filly’s back. “Don’t let what others think defy you. You are your own mare, and only you can decide how to rule.”

The fillies opens her mouth to reply but is cut off by a booming voice in the distance.

“There’s my favorite princess!”

Both mare’s turn in response, just as a towering form of a male griffin; gilded in golden armor with a comically large sword draped across his back comes into view. A small smile appears on the young princess's face as the figure steps forth. The mare is then abruptly lifted from her seat and spun around in place by the armored griffin; squealing in delight as she’s spun.

The griffon lets out an amused laugh as he lowers his arms and looks into the smiling filly’s face. “How are you doing today, Celestia?”

“Bored, Razzy” The princess responds as the smile vanishes from her face and shifts to a frown. “Why am I even here?” She whines. “If I'm just going to sit outside while the grownups have their little meeting.”

‘Razzy’ returns the princess to her seat and gives her a stern look. “This isn’t just a typical meeting. Every Griff is here to discuss a new subspecies of pony that was discovered on the edge of the territory and if they pose a threat.”

“Oh yeah, the bat ponies.” The princess mutters with a hint of disdain in her voice.

An armored tallon rests on the filly’s shoulder. “They prefer the term ‘Thestral, ’ and they came to us. In hopes of being apart of this kingdom.”

“Why do you suppose that is?” Poppy asks as she breaks her silence. “What drove them to comes to us now? After living in the shadows for so long?”

The griffin shrugs. “I couldn’t say for certain. Maybe they're in some sort of trouble and want to ask us for help. Or it could be that there just tired of living like animals and want a more sophisticated way of life.”

“Let’s hope it’s the latter. We’d hate to have our new friends to have any disingenuous motives.” A new commanding voice comments as a towering figure steps next to the griffon.

Standing just a smidge over the armored griffin, a stallion with a perfect white coat stands before them. A massive white horn juts out from a fiery red mane that moves as if it’s ablaze. Fierce, but warm greens eyes stare back at them. With a full beard dons his muzzle. Large wings hang loosely at his side as like his mane. The stallion's tail moves as if lit aflame. With a familiar sun insignia on his flank.
The griffon instantly bows upon seeing the stallions presence. “Apologies, my league. I did not see you arrive.”

“Arise, Old Friend,” The stallion commands in a booming voice. “You need not bow to me.”

Razor Wing returns to a stand position and lets out a nervous laugh. “Apologies my lord, old habits die hard it would seem.”

“A fair assessment,” The stallion replies. “One I hope that you break soon. It would make for bad standings with your ruler if Griffin Stone's champion kept bowing to one of their allied nations.”

The griffon nods and fiddles with his talons. “Indeed, our alliance is already rocky as it is. It’s only thanks to us joining forces against the dragons that we are allied at all.”

“Say what you will about the former king, but they saw more than our militaristic might when they asked to unite, but that is a story for another time.” The stallion turns towards the young princess. “How is my Tia doing today?”

Young Celestia grins. “Much better now that you two are here.” She chirps in an enthusiastic tone.

As the two conversate, a dark expression appears on the griffon's face as he slowly starts reaching for his sword.”

~***~

“I see you’ve gone to Pinky’s school on how to greet others.” A certain blue hedgehog quips as another blue speedster lay sprawled on top of him. “Or were you just happy to see me?”

Rainbow Dash leans in close, till her muzzle just about touches the hedgehog’s nose. “Of course I’m glad to see you. Do you have any idea how dull it gets around here when you’re not around?” The mare tips her head down so that her muzzles is now under Sonic’s chin. “I never realized how lame things get when you're not here.”

Sonic lets out an amused laugh as he places a hand on the mare’s back; causing her to tense up slightly. “Jeez Dash, we just saw each other this morning. It’s not like we haven’t talked all week.”

The mare looks up and rolls her eyes. “Yeah sure, but that’s out in public. I can’t act…” She gestures to herself with a foreleg. “...like this with everypony watching. It would tarnish my image.”

“Yeah sure, all you care about is your rep.” The speedster replies with his one eye roll. “I think you’re just afraid that others will see there’s more to you than your arrogant attitude and the need to always show off.” His hand begins to slide further down her back “That there’s an individual who is capable of compassion and understanding. Who can be insecure and have more than one emotion..” His expression turns serious. “I think the only person you’re afraid of is yourself. And you’re worried that others won’t accept who you really are.” Sonic emphasizes this by taping the mare on the tip on her muzzle. “And if that’s the case, then they aren’t worth your time, to begin with.

Rainbow Dash’s face turns several shades of red as her upper lip quivers; trying to form a response to the speedsters statement. The smile begins to fade from Sonic's face as a sense of dread starts to creep in. That is quickly put to rest as the cyan mare’s wings ‘pomph’ and go rigid as she continues to stare at the hedgehog blankly.

Sonic to his credit manages to not laugh at the absurdity of the situation...at first. That comes to an abrupt and sudden end as he makes a futile effort to not laugh at the mare’s reaction; which breaks the pegasus away from her trancelike state as the hedgehog begins snickering into a closed fist.

“Hey! What’s so funny?” The mare snaps as she stares down at the hedgehog beneath her. “I’m being serious here!”

The hedgehog places both his hands on the mare’s back. “I know you are...” *snicker* “That’s what makes it so funny.” *Snort* He thumb brushes against one of the mare’s primary feathers; inciting a small shiver from the pegasus. “Someone has sensitive wings.”

“Everything is a bucking joke to you, isn’t it?” The mare snaps as she rises to hooves; towering over the still horizontal hedgehog. “Just once I wish you’d take things seriously!” Her anger then subsides rather abruptly as she then deadpans her next comment. “Ah screw it.”

Suddenly the mare mashes her muzzle into the hedgehog’s and begins to kiss him with reckless ambition. Sonic attempts to react but has his arms pinned down by the mare’s forelegs. This, for whatever reason, drives the pegasus to increase her pace and take things further as she slides her tongue across the hedgehog’s incisors, in hopes of entry. The speedster companies and Dash dives straight in and begins eagerly entwining the soft muscle with Sonic’s.

This continues for a few moments, till the mare breaks for air and returns to her kneeling position over the hedgehog. “”See, that...how.” Dash’s pupils shrink as she begins processing what she just did and what someone would imply or herself if the roles were reversed. The Mare’s face goes beet red, and she slowly starts to backpedal away from the hedgehog.

“That was intense,” Sonic begins as she rises to a sitting position. “I figured there was something, but...Dash?” He adds in a worried tone as the noticed the look of dread on mare’s face.

The now blushing and fidgeting pegasus continues to slowly back away till her flank bumps into a nearby wall; letting out a startled yelp upon doing so.

“Dash?” The hedgehog asks again in a worried tone as he rises to a standing position. “You alright?” Sonic adds as he starts to advance towards the now trembling speedster; holding out his hand in a non-threatening manner.

“I-I’m not that kind of mare!” Rainbow Dash snaps as she makes a beeline for the steps and zips up them.

“Dash!”

“Don’t follow me!” The mare shouts back as the sound of slamming door can be heard.

Letting his outstretched hand fall to his side. Sonic lets out a sigh as he runs his other hand through his spiky quills. He then lets the other hand drop and turns his attention to the now empty stairway. As if trying to find an answer to what just transpired.

“Well shit,” The hedgehog says to no one in particular as he continues to glance at the empty staircase.

~***~

A waxing moon and a starlit sky hang overhead. The soft light illuminates the area as a gentle breeze sweeps across the landscape; causing the long grass to sway. While dozens of fireflies mill about. As a soft tone seems to play from an unknown source. Creating a mellow and relaxing atmosphere for one to let their guard down and not be bothered by the day's worries.

The mistress of the night navigates through the continuously swaying grass via a small path worn in the earth; mostly caused by the alicorns many passing through the same section. Luna seems engaged in a conversation with an unknown individual. Till the mare asks a question but doesn’t receive an answer. Hearing only silence in response to in the inquiry. The princess turns to her silence friend; who is standing motionless as they stare blankly at something While lost in thought.

Luna lets out an annoyed exhale through her muzzle and begins to approach her stationary companion. Only to stop a few feet away, when she notices the look of confusion/dread on his face.

Standing before the lunar princes is a certain blue hedgehog. Who as of the moment, is the only mortal who has set foot in the dreamscape. The princess waves a hoof in front of the speedster's face. In hopes of breaking him from his trance. When that doesn’t work. She then raises her hoof to tap him on the shoulder, but stops and a huge grin appears on her face. Tilting her head towards the speedster; till her muzzle is inches from his ear. The princess’s smile increases as she suppresses and laugh and flicks the tip of the hedgehog’s ear with the end of her tongue.

With a shriek and a shudder, once would usually see when someone was electrocuted. Sonic leaps backward and covers his now damp ear with his right hand. With a look on his face that’s both surprise and shock.

“W-what the hell, Nim?” The hedgehog shudders as he rubs his ear with his hand. “You could have just tapped me on the shoulder or something. You didn’t have to do that.”

The princess smirks at the hedgehog's outburst. “This is true, but it wouldn't have been as much fun.” her expression then turns serious. “Is there something on your mind, Sonic? You’ve been rather distant since we’ve arrived.”

“Na it’s nothing, Nim. Don’t worry about it.” The hedgehog replies with a dismissive wave as he scratches his head and walks past the alicorn. “Sorry I spaced out there, what did you want to show me?”

Luna frowns at the abrupt subject change but lets out a defeated sigh as she turns to catch up to the speedster. “We’re already here,” She replies as she trots in front of the hedgehog and takes the lead. “This entire area was recreated from memory into what you see before you.” The alicorn emphasizes this with a wave of her foreleg. “While I can’t say that everything you see before you exactly how it once was.” She then gestures towards the sky. “I can definitely lay claim that the sky above is what it was back then.”

“What happened to it?” The hedgehog inquires as he looks around. “You said it was created from memory. Is it not around anymore?”

The princess shakes her head. “Unfortunately no. During my….”

“Vacation,” Sonic interrupts; taking the princess off guard.

“Yes, during my….vacation. The land was bought by a local farmer and was used to grow a rather elaborate... corn maze. “ Luna waves her right foreleg and the area shifts to a field of maize with an odd path cutting right through the center of it. “A place that I used to frequent. That would help me reflect and to just get away from my worried, even just before I was sent to the moon. Was taken and everything that made it what it was. Was stripped away and turned into this….novelty attraction that many ponies have never even heard of.” She adds with a hint of venom in her voice.

The princess then waves her forelegs, and everything returns to the mystic landscape it was before. “But I can’t dwell on things that are beyond my control. While I could retake this place and attempt to return it to what it once was. It will never be the same.” She then turns back towards the hedgehog. “My point is that there are somethings beyond your control and that you have to accept it.” She then frowns. “A trait that I, unfortunately, didn’t possess until very recently.”

“True, not everyone comes to that realization right away.” The hedgehog then chuckles. “I didn’t at first either. Even with my speed, I wasn’t able to ‘fix’ or stop everything. Which resulted in me taking some let’s say 'questionable methods’ to correct.”

“You attempted to become faster.” The princess replies bluntly.

“Pretty much, I tried everything I could think of to increase my speed. Strenuous training, weird diets, and even attempted to use the power of the chaos emeralds.” Sonic then frowns and looks down at the ground as he kicks a loose rock across the dirt. “All to achieve something that I later found was an impossible task.”

“And considering you tend to do the ‘impossible’ that didn’t sit well with you.”

The hedgehog looks up at the princess. “No, it did not, but I eventually came to terms with it and strived to do as much as I could.” He then frowns. “You’re going to ask me what’s been bothering me aren’t you?”

“Not at first, but I was going to ask again at some point. In hopes of receiving an answer.” The alicorn replies meekly as she puts on a strained smile. “But if it’s something that you’d rather not discuss. I’ll respect your wishes and not bring it up again.”

Sonic lets out an annoyed groan and falls backward; causing a wave of fireflies to rise up and scatter as their sanctuary is disturbed. “You are persistent. I’ll give you that.” The hedgehog then looks up at the princess. “Why do you need to know so badly?”

“I persist, because I care, Sonic. You are one of the few that I can say that is truly my friend.” The princess replies flatly as she kneels down beside the hedgehog. “One that is honest and doesn’t seek my companionship for their own personal gain.” She adds looking away with a hurt expression on her face.

The hedgehog process this new information for a moment before responding in a quiet tone. “I take it, this something that has happened before. Who was it?”

“The son of one of the allied kingdoms that were part of the Fellowship. It was set up by our fathers to ‘create a unification between our two nations.’ That was supposed to help form a new ‘empire.’” The princess replies with a twitch of tips of her wings to implies ‘quotations.’

“What happened?” Sonic asked bluntly.

Luna looks at the hedgehog with a hurt expression. “I overheard him bragging to his friends that he ‘bagged a breeder’ and that he was only going to marry me to appease his father. While also carrying on his not so secret affair with the local blacksmith's daughter. Who was currently engaged to a high-ranking noble.”

“I take it, things didn’t go so well when this came out.”

“It would have. Probably would have caused that kingdom to be removed from the alliance. But it never did.” the princess sighs. “The noble that was engaged to the daughter of the blacksmith found out about the affair and called for a trial by combat. Luna looks away. “He was victorious and married his fiance that day in celebration.”

Sonic looks up at the distraught princess and places a hand on her back and begins to move it slowly back and forth. “The guy sounded like an ass and paid for it in the end. Can’t say I blame that noble for being pissed that his bride to be was nailing the king’s son behind his back. But to go as far..”

“It was a different time, things weren’t settled through the ways they are today. Matters were resolved on the battlefield and usually by some sort of last one standing as a result.” Luna then looks at something in the distance. “Trusting again became difficult for me after that. My father attempted another arranged marriage sometime later. But stopped trying to pair me off when I finally asked him to let me choose for myself.” The princess then turns back to Sonic. “Do you know why I'm telling you all this?”

The hedgehog slowly removes his hand and lets it fall to his side. “I have a vague idea, but I'd rather hear it from you, Nim.”

“Because I trust you, Sonic. You’ve shown me that not every pony..eh individual isn’t just in it for themselves. That some can actually be trusting and caring.” The princess lays down beside the hedgehog before continuing. “ Even if the only time we can spend together is in the dreamscape. It’s enough for me.” She leans in closer to the speedster. “Do you understand why I'm trying to say?”

Sonic lets out a sigh and scratches the alicorn behind her right ear; enticing a slight shiver. “Jeez Nin, you laying on a bit thick here. If I didn’t know any better, I'd say you were…” He lets out an amused grunt. “Of course, she is. Why else would she be getting so chummy with me.” The hedgehog mutters to himself. “Alright, I'll talk. Just for you, Nim.”

“Splendid,” The princess responds with a smile that threatens to split her face and a bit too eagerly than she meant to. “I mean, I only wish to help to assist my dearest friend.”

The hedgehog laughs in response. “I swear Nim if you ponies find out a way to weaponize cuteness. Then the rest of us are doom. Doooooom!” Sonic adds with dramatic effect as he raises his arms and waves them back and forth to emphasize his statement.

“Alright, that’s enough.” The princess gilds in a mocking tone. “You’ve already gone into how our ‘cuteness’ is diabetic inducing. Now tell me, what has been on your mind. Please.”

Letting out another heavy sigh, Sonic turns to the alicorn and points to the tip of her muzzle. Resulting in the princess crossing her eyes to glance down at the intruding appendage. “Now I need you to promise not to laugh or make any snide remarks till I'm finished. Are we clear?” Luna nods silently and lays her head on the grass beside the hedgehog.

“You have my undivided attention and have my word that I'll wait until the end to pass judgment on whatever you have to say.” The princess replied as she scoots closer to the hedgehog.

~***~

Powerful waves from a pending storm strike against a weathered cliff side and reseed from pure white sands from an unknown island. Of dense foliage and crumbling structures of a long forgotten empire. A small Spooner can be seen on the shoreside as a familiar (albeit younger) figure emerges from the craft and begins to venture inland. Removing a piece of parchment from their coat and starts reading what’s written on it. However, a small gust of wind blows from the west and cuts through the treetops. Causing much of the canopy of leaves and branches to way. Sending a few errand rays of the sun’s harsh rays at the new arrival. Prompting the young Sol Guardian to tear her focus from the paper, flinches and then shields her eyes.

Blaze slowly lowers her arm as the wind passes and turns attention back towards the paper still clenched in her right hand. “Let’s see here. There have been reports of abnormal activity over the last several weeks. With most patrols being ambushed by a strange figure or figures and having their supplies and provisions stolen.” The guardian scans the shoreside and notices several pieces of hastily abandoned equipment spread across it. With several sets of footprints around them; some of them fresh and leading into the jungle. “However, others have stated that a figure has been seen assisting them to repel the other one.” The feline looks up from the parchment. “So what does this mean?” She asks looking into the jungles as if trying to find the answer. Only to incinerate the paper in her grasp. “It means weakness!” Blaze snaps as the still smoldering ashes fall from her hand and onto the ground.

“If you need something done right, you need to do it yourself.” She adds stepping into the dense jungle and sidestepping a fallen tree. “Whoever you are. I will find you and end this. She declares venturing further inward.

“Oh, I don’t know about that.” A chipper voice response from high above.

The guardian freezes in place. “Who said that? She asks looking around. “Show yourself!” Blaze command channeling a burst of flame into each of her hands.

“Oh my, so quick to anger. You might want to dial down the pyrokinesis a bit or else you’re going to burn this whole place down.” The voice continues.

Blaze snarls and bares her teeth in the direction of the voice. “Don’t tell me what to do! I am in full control these flame and…” The guardian trails off as she notices some of the nearby leaves start to curl and singe. “Well mostly in control.” She adds a meekly.

The voice laughs. “Oh, that is just adorable. How old are you?”

With a definitive point, the feline turns her attention to where believes the voice’s origin is from. “I am not cute! And my age is no concern for individuals like you.” She snaps taking a defining stance.

“And what are they saying about little ole me?” The voice asks. “I’ve been here for months, and everyone that has visited this little island hasn’t even bothered to ask how I'm doing or why I’m here.”

The feline deflates slightly at the new information. “Reports have stated that you’re ambushing them and taking their possessions.” She returns to her defensive pose. “Which makes you a criminal that needs to be stopped.”

“Well, that’s only half right.” The voice replies. “I did relinquish some ‘travelers’ of their possessions on occasion. However, it wasn’t through ambush...at least not from me anyway.”

“I don’t follow.” The feline responses, unsure how to proceed.

“Ever since my arrival on this island. I’ve had to deal my fair share or let say, unsavory individuals. Some of which donning armor and wielding weapons of some empire I'm not familiar with.”

A flash of red catches the feline eyes as she scans the treetops, but continues to listen intently to the voice. “So, what are you trying to say? That you’re not involved in these reports or..”

“I’m saying that you’re only getting only half the story.” The voice interrupts; losing much of its former chipper tone. “Bandits and outcasts set up shop in the old ruins. Attempted to ambush any of these guards that were looking for them. But then I intervened to prevent it, and now everyone is now after ME!” The voice shouts as a small figure can be seen dressed in bright red. High above the treetops.

The anger and frustration the feline once possessed fizzles out slightly till all that remains is cautious intrigue. “So, you’re not originally from here and have been trying to get home since you arrived. Been attacked on both sides and now are seeking my help...because?”

“Who said I was asking for your assistance.” The voice asks in a suspicious tone. “What makes you think that I need it?”

“Because you haven’t made any attempt to attack me since I arrived. Which means you need me for something.” Blaze responds staring up at the figure and crosses her arms. “ Or am I mistaken?”

“You are close,” The voice responds. “While I could have easily just ambushed you and taken your boat. That would have left you in a similar situation as I have been through. And despite what your little reports say. I am not a monster.”

Blaze scans the tree line for any other possible onlookers. “Then show yourself. If you are not as they say. Step forth and reveal who it is that I have been talking to.”

“Yeah Right, you’re just going to attack me once I jump down.” The voice accuses. “I may have been born at night, but I wasn’t born last night.”

The feline frowns and crosses her arms across her chest. “If I was going to attack you. I would have done it already.” She responds in a matter o factly tone and points to a red-cloaked individual. “Your attire doesn’t blend with the foliage that you’re using for cover and makes you an easy target.” Her expression softens. “Now come down here. You have my word that no harm will befall you. Less you make the first attempt.”

Something massive strikes the ground behind the feline; causing her to spring forward, about-face and take a defensive stance. “W-who’s there?” Blaze stutters, having been shaken by whatever fell behind her.

“Didn’t you just ask me to ‘show myself’ a moment ago?” A familiar voice asks as an imposing figure can be seen a short distance away’ mostly hidden under the faint light under the dense canopy of trees. “Regretting your decision already?” They ask stepping forward into the open part of the canopy.

The feline takes a cautious step backward as her face morphs into an expression of shock and horror. As a somewhat familiar yet tragic individual step towards them. A bright red dress with a stripe down the middle catches the feline attention. Appearing now to be several sizes too large (Possibly what her normal size way before arriving on the island.) Now is severely soiled with dirt, caked on mud, and hangs loosely off the individual's frame. In what remains of it is now burned in several areas and in complete tatters; save for a few hastily done repairs done around the arms and midsection. A yellowed section of what was one a wing hangs loosely from the individual's back. With a set of twisted wires of what's left of the other one hangs on the other side. Gloved worn well past the finger show long black unkept nail. And boots that appear to once matched the dress caked with mud, grass, and what seems to be soot. Unkept hair held back by a still red hair band catches her attention. As well as the individuals matted and frazzled yellow fur that now appears to almost have a copper-like tone to it. With a set of shimmering golden eyes that seem to be studying the guardian as intently as she is studying them.

“Y-you're a cat?” Blaze mutters out as she notices a set of still golden ears poking out from the matted hair.

The figure grins and crosses their arms. “You figure that out on your own or did you have someone else tell you?” They jest, with a more feminine like voice. “I think I figured out something here “ They add with a hind of intrigue in their response as she brings a hand to her face and begins tapping her chin.

“And would that be?” Blaze asks hesitantly as she tries to respond to the sudden subject change.

“Short stature, underdeveloped chest and rear hindquarters. If I had to guess, I'd say your about 10 years old..maybe 11 if..”

A sudden kick cuts the island inhabitant off as she narrowly dodges a strike from the feline. “Whoa, what was that for? I thought you said I’d have safe passage off the island?” The red-clad island inhabitant exclaims as she takes a defensive pose.

“I never promised you sanctuary.” Blaze spits with a hint of venom in her voice. “What I offered was to hear what you had to say and decide if you were a threat or not.”

“What has changed a second ago you…” Her eyes widen, and the other feline attempts to stifle a laugh by breaking her stance and bringing a closed fist to her mouth. “Are you serious?” She asks barely able to contain her laughter. “Did my last remark really strike that much of a nerve with you?”

The guardian narrows her eyes. “This is not a laughing matter. “You insult me and then laugh when I get upset over it.” Blaze ignites her pyrokinesis. “Prepare yourself for I shall…”

“Your kidding right?!” The feline interrupts.”I make one remark...that wasn’t supposed to be an insult by the way, and you flip out over it. Having that short of a fuse is going to get you into trouble one day. And I'm not talking about right now."

“I have nothing to say to you.” The guardian growls.

With a heavy sigh the other feline fighting pose. “You know what screw it. There’s no getting through to you.”

Blaze lunges at the other feline with a quick strike, but as with the last attack, it's easily dodged. She attempts leg sweep, but that too is also dodged. The guardian attempts another strike towards the felines midsection but is blocked.

“Knock it off, your movements are too wild and unfocused to be efficient, and you’re practically telegraphing your attacks.” The other feline comments as she takes a leap backward. “I’m starting to lose my patience here.” She sighs. “Look, I’m sorry if what I said ticked you off. That wasn’t my intention.”

The Guardian charges at the feline and the two interlock in a test of strength. “You may be able to foresee the course of action that I choose to venture; unfortunately, this will not aid you: as I have likewise deduced your own method of fisticuffs. A peculiar conundrum, wouldn't you say?﻿”

“W-what?” The other feline studders as she cringes at the remark. “I-i don’t get what you’re trying to say. Was that supposed to be a threat?”

Blaze signs. “You might know everything I'm going to do, but that's not going to help you since I know everything you're going to do! Strange, isn't it?”

“Pppffttt, Bahahaha!” The other feline burst out laughing and sidesteps the guardian. “Oh, that’s just hilarious. You sound like a friend of mine back home.” She says sighing sadly as she recalls the memory.”

The Guardian takes a step back and visibly deflates and looks up at the other feline. “I don’t understand.”

“You’re just as stubborn as he is.” The other feline responds in a somber tone as she wipes a tear away. “You two would probably get along really well...or just butt heads as soon as you met” She adds with a shrug. “Anyway…”

The sound of snapping twigs and branches causes the feline to trail off and to start scanning the landscape. “Friends of yours?”

Muffled profanities and disgruntled comments can be heard just outside the two’s visible range. “No, I didn’t request an escort to accompany me. So, if any guards are in the vicinity, they are acting against orders.”

Several figures can be seen emerging from the trees. Some donning heavily weathered armor and worn attire “I doubt any of these guys are guards. Probably some of the bandits I drove off last week.” The feline sighs. “Most likely still pissed that I knocked out their leader and took his stuff.”

“W-what are you?” Blaze studders.

The other feline scans the slowly encroaching forces and cringes. “I’m just a seamstress, who’s just really good at fighting. You wouldn’t believe how often that comes into play. Also, I think we’re surrounded.”

“I must commend you for the unique skill set you possess, and I also came to the same conclusion as well.” The Guardian responds as she also scans the surrounding area.

With a quick turn, the two now back their backs to each other. As they're surrounded by this looming threat. “Think we can take them?” The feline asks with a confident smile. “These guys look pretty tough. I wouldn’t be surprised if they overwhelmed us.”

“Ceases the semantics, I’ve tangled with this bunch before. They're a blight on this land and have been a pain in my side shortly after I arrived. This ends today."

The guardian then grins. “Besides, you already took out the presumably strongest one of them. The rest shouldn’t be a match for us.”

The other feline takes a ready stance. “The only thing these guys have against us is numbers. So, don’t let them overwhelm you.

Next Chapter preview

???: Do you really wish to seek the answers to those questions

Luna: Well you don't see that every day.

Sonic: I call the big one bitey.

Twilight: Hey, Hey, Sonic. I'm a pickle

Author's Note

The plot thickens as we learn some tragic events of hero's past. Will this spell doom for our heroes or will a new bond be forged because of it? Find out in the next exciting installment of Battle for Equestria.

A/N: Phew, that took a while to type up. I tried a different style of writing on this one. I'd like to know what you guys think.

Fire Woman

“So, that’s why you seemed so reluctant to tell me. We are sorry Sonic; I did not know that this was weighing on you so greatly.” The moon goddess whispers as her head falls and her ears droop. “We thought that you were merely just being indecisive and..” The princess taps her chin with a hoof. “How does the saying go? “Playing the field?” She then turns to the hedgehog alongside her. “But it seems that we were incorrect in our assumptions.”

The hedgehog lets out a forced laugh and looks up at Luna. “Probably seems rather pathetic on your end, doesn’t it? Keeping everyone at arm's length and just hoping it resolves itself.” Sonic’s face twists into a frown as he continues. “But it just seems no matter what I do, there will unintended fallout, and it will probably ruin an already unsteady friendship...well ‘unsteady’ since I arrived anyway.”

Remaining in the same spot as earlier, the Princess and hedgehog both face a starlit sky as the moon has seemingly vanished; in a reflection of the current atmosphere of the conversation. The numerous fireflies that once filled the tall grass have now ventured off in the distance and there glow can only be faintly seen within the tall grass.

“The fact that you’ve shown reluctance in your decision. Knowing the possible consequences doesn’t make you pathetic.” The Princess begins as a small smile appears on her face. “It shows that you truly do care for your friends.” She then continues as her smile increases. “And it also explains why you never reacted to the not so subtle hints I’ve been dropping.” Luna extends a hoof and pulls Sonic close to her. “For a moment there, we thought you were just dense.”

“You wound me, Nim.” The hedgehog comments as he places a hand on his chest. “To think I wouldn’t notice what you were implying.” He then smirks before adding a small quip. “Especially considering that you had as much subtlety as a bull in a china shop.”

Luna playfully shoves Sonic laugh. “Hey, cut us some slack. We are a bit out of practice and have found that the old ways of attraction aren’t used much anymore.”

“Like what? Batting your eyelashes and making kissy faces at them?” The hedgehog sarcastically mocks. “Because I've seen many still use those."

The princess shakes her head as she poorly suppresses a laugh. “Nay, such open acts of affection were not of popular opinion. If one wanted to attract another pony’s interest. It was customary to give them a meaningful gift or a large sum of coin. Mainly, to show that you were willing and able to support them. Though this was typically by a stallion, who was interested in a mare. If the roles were in reverse, the mare would give the stallion a family lineage chart. Unusually in the form of an expensive book or ornate scroll. To show that she can give them offspring that will be able to carry on the family’s legacy.”

“That just seems overly complicated and unnecessary. Why not just talk to the person and tell them how you feel? Instead of doing all that other nonsense. Especially considering that you’d be out a lot less if they didn’t feel the same.” Sonic looks up at Luna. “Which did happen didn’t it? Or were you expected to just expected to go through with it? Even if you didn’t feel the same?”

“It happened, but it didn't make the individual very popular with others. Primarily, if the one interested was from a more powerful house or family. It raised the status of the lower standing house if the two were to marry. Plus, it would make it more difficult to find another. Since by many, it would deem you unapproachable and made to look like you were holding out for a ‘higher bidder.’ The princess adds with a hint of disdain in her voice.

“Yesh, that’s just ridiculous.” The hedgehog then taps his chin. “But that does explain why a lot of nobles I've meet act all high and mighty. Who can’t seem to pull their heads out of there butts.” He then laughs. “Using your wealth and status to get whatever you want. That’s just messed up.”

“Indeed, while the players have changed. For the most part, the game has remained the same.” Luna’s expression shifts to a serious one. “Had you been using your status and popularity to ‘sow your wild oats’ as they say. With as many mares as you could. Under the guise that they were special to you. We wouldn’t be having this conversation and things between us would be much different.”

“What kind of guy do you take me for?” The hedgehog retorts with a mock annoyed tone as he looks up at the princess. “To think I’d do something so immoral and…” Sonic then trails off as he turns his attention to something in the distance and takes on a more somber expression. “The messed up thing is, that it wouldn’t be hard to do if I ever decided to. Hell, some would probably be ok knowing; just as long as they got a piece. So, they could brag to there friends about it. Am I that big of a deal here or am I just overthinking things?”

Luna gently guides the hedgehog’s attention back towards her with a foreleg. Surly you jest, Sonic. Shortly after your arrival in Equestria. You’ve made yourself rather well known. With these heroic feats you’ve accomplished.”

Several newspapers appear and hover over the two’s head. Luna snatches one with her magic, while Sonic grabs the one closest to him. Turning it to face the hedgehog with her magic. The moon goddess gestures to headline, with the words ‘Blue Blur, saves the day.’ Printed in bold letters, with an image of the hedgehog mentioned above carrying a mare from a burning building.

“Like this, for example, Luna begins as she passes the newspaper to Sonic and grabs another one with her magic. “Or this, The moon Goddess gestures to the next one with the header. That reads, ‘A fight against overwhelming odds.’ With an image of Sonic facing off a group various creatures trying to rob a bank.

“Or my personal favorite.” The alicorn claims as she uses her magic to grab another newspaper. with the headline. ‘A hero rises.’ With an image of a pre-transformed Sonic facing off against Nightmare Moon. During their battle on Nightmare Night Luna waves, her right hoof and several other newspapers appear. “And these are just the ones we’ve come across. We’d wager it’s safe to assume there are many others that we haven’t seen.”

Sonic grabs the final paper and begins flipping through it. “You seem to like what happened on that night. Why is that?” He inquires as he turns back to the alicorn.

“Because it was the night you defeated Nightmare Moon.” The mare replies as if the answer was obvious.

“No, Twilight and the others did.” The hedgehog corrects. “What we did was just put on a show.”

“Yes, and a sizeable amount of Equestria’s populace witness this. Enough, in fact, to finally put many at ease when in my presence or at times of conversation.” She then lets out a sad sigh. “While it is true that many did take my sister’s word of Nightmare Moon’s defeat. Nopony was there to witness it. Other than the Element bearers. So, many of Equestria’s citizens where caution to downright terrified of my alternate form’s return. Resulting in most avoiding me forthright.” Her muzzle then scrunches. “You wouldn’t believe some of the stories I’ve heard on how this would happen."

The hedgehog takes a moment to absorb this information; flicking one of his quills absentmindedly in the process. “So, what you're saying is that little stunt we pulled the other night not only entertained the crowd when the other guys bailed on the show. It also put that stigma that some people had about you reverting to your nightmare form and trying to take over again.”

“That is correct” The princess responds with a hint of shame in her voice. “We apologize that we have to involve you,but..”

“You should have told me.” Sonic snaps as he gives the princess a sour look. “I wouldn't have been so reluctant to help you that night. Hell, I probably would have gone all out.If I knew that there was another reason you suggested that match up.” His scowl fades slightly. “I mean, I still would have felt bad for having to do it, but I would have understood why.”

Luna pulls Sonic close and wraps her forelegs around his torso. “You’re right; I should have been straightforward with you. I just feared that you…”The alicorn’s voice shifts to a deeper pitch at she continue. “You are one of few ponies that I can call a friend and not have it sound hollow.” A black mist starts to rise from the princess’s form as her body begins to change shape.

Despite having his face and most of his body still pinned against the princess. He notices the sudden change in her form. “Nym?” He asks with a muffled voice. “You alright.”

“Of course, Sonic.” A new voice responds. “Why would you think I wasn’t?” The voice asks in a worried tone. “Because you sound…” The hedgehog begins as he pulls himself away from the princess’s grasp. “...different?”

Staring back at the hedgehog is not the young alicorn he has spent the last several evenings within the dreamscape, not the one who raced him to the moon. Instead, it’s the one that many; until recently. Feared would return and attempt to overthrow the sun monarch once again and force eternal night. Nightmare Moon; minus her iconic armor.

~***~

“There’s no end to these guys!” The Sol guardian exclaims as she knocks a would-be attacker away with a roundhouse kick. Only to have another make the same attempt. “We’ll be overrun at this point.”

Honey delivers several precise ‘haymakers’ to grey wolf brandishing a makeshift club. Before knocking the weapon out of there hand and striking them on the head with it. “Tell me about it. Every Time I’ve faced these guys. Their numbers seem to double. It’s like they have a recruitment station or something.”

“While you have to respect their tenacity, this is not going to end in our favor if we don’t do something quickly,” Blaze comments as she dodges an attacker with a sword and delivers a heeled shoe to there face. Knocking them down and relinquishing their sword.

The other feline cringes as her newly acquired club busts over the head of another attacker. And then, flings the remaining piece at a large fox as they attempt a sneak attack from the treetops; sending them crashing into an oncoming hoard. “These guys aren’t stupid...ok they are pretty dumb. But even an idiot knows that we’ll eventually tire out if they keep throwing their men at us.”

“Exactly, which means that we…” Blaze trails off as she deflects another sword-wielding opponent’s attack and notices her fighting partner has changed tactics and is now using a similar fighting style like her own. Breaking the guardian's concentration just enough for her opponent to knock the sword away. Giving them an opportunity to deliver and goes in for the finishing strike but is beaten away by Honey, with a newly acquired war hammer.

“You’ve got to be more careful, Blaze.” The other feline chastises. “These guys are in it to win it and aren’t afraid to fight dirty to get it done.” She adds while knocking away another attacker with her newly acquired weapon.

The guardian bites her lip in response to her folly and other felines comment. Had Honey not intervened. She surely would have perished or would have been severely wounded. Blaze mows over this for a moment, but then casts it aside for a later time and returns to assisting the other feline; who is now facing off against a sizable group of bandits.

“About time you re-joined the party.” Honey quips as she blocks an oncoming attack and then knocks them away with a right hook. “What happened back there? She adds with a hint of annoyance in her voice.

“Sorry, sorry,” The other feline responses meekly (well as ‘meekly as you can, given the situation.) I wasn’t aware you knew several fighting styles. Given the one, you've used until just now. It caught me off guard for a moment.”

Honey flings the remaining part of her war hammer at a group of bandits; knocking them to the ground. “Oh that, many don’t know this, but I possess Photographic reflexes.” She replies in a cheeky tone. “Usually I stick to just one, but….”

“You're kidding, right?” Blaze asks as she retries a mace from the slowly accumulating piles of discarded weapons around them.

“Pffft! Of course,” The feline responds with a cheeky laugh. “I’m a seamstress, not a martial arts master. I just picked up a few things from my matches, during my downtime.

Blaze lets out an annoyed grown and lets her shoulder slump. “I fail to see the humor in it, given the situation. One would think you’d have more of resolve and…”

“By the creature, you need to lighten up!” Honey exclaims as she floors an attacking wolf with a devastating strike. “These blockheads barely have a brain cell between the ten of them. They’ll eventually figure out that uh oh.” The feline trails off as the once unending group of bandits, suddenly start to flee into the dense forest. “This isn’t good.”

The other feline frowns as the statement and watches as everyone disappears from sights. “They’re retreating. What part of that isn’t good?” The guardian inquires as she turns to the other feline.

“That wasn’t a ‘retreat’!” Honey snaps she tosses her now useless war hammer to the ground. “They’re regrouping, so they can attack us all at once from all sides.”

A chill runs down Blaze’s spin as she starts to process what the seamstress just said. It did seem too sudden that a group that was beginning to gain the upper hand. To suddenly, out of nowhere, turn tail and flee. She activates her pyrokinesis; no longer worried about the collateral damage, it would cause. “What should we do? Assuming what you claimed was correct. We’re sitting targets if we stay here.”

“My thoughts exactly.” Honey replies as she picks up a bow staff and tosses it to Blaze and then grabs a pair of maces for herself. “We need to find another area that isn’t surrounded by this dense forest.” She then grins. “And I know just the place.”

The feline then takes off in a full sprint; catching the guardian off guard for the second time. “Follow me! She shouts back as she starts to distance herself from the previous location.

“Hey, wait up!” Blaze snaps as she rushes off after her.

Next Chapter Preview:

Sonic: "Well that happened."

Twilight: "I'm overcome by a world of emotions!"

Honey: "Remind me to never piss you off."

???: "just when it gets weirder, it gets fun."

Black and Magic Woman

Prologue

Prologue

The stench and decay of life fills the air as a slight breeze howls at the mouth of a massive cave. A bipedal creature cloaked in dark black fabric approaches and steps within; causing a slight ripple to sweep over the opening as it passes through.

Two large figures approach the new arrival; both cloaked in the same material. Each of them draws their weapons and points them at the lone wanderer.

“What is the color of night??” The one on the right asks in a stern raspy voice as they point a spear enveloped in magic at the visitor.

A small smile appears on the lone figures face. “Sanguine, My Brother.”

Both figures turn to each other and exchange nods.

“Welcome home.” The one of the left says in a somewhat soothing less harsh raspy tone.

Withdrawing their weapons; both figures step aside and motion the visitor to pass.

Nodding as it trots beyond the two, the mysterious individual steps forward and disappears within the bowels of the cave

Traversing a winding path; with only a slight glow of illumination from the mysterious mushrooms that dot the cave. The figure steps forth to a large cavern and is instantly assaulted by the sounds in metal and stone craft as it passes by two unlit torches.
Pickaxes strike stone and spark in the darkness as wooden carts haul away the loosened earth and move it to several large piles that dot the area. Hammers strike red hot steel as it rests on massive anvils or hisses as its quenches in murky liquid.

Several lanterns hang with in the cave; with filled with the same mysterious fungus or glow with a strange green flame.

The ones creating such a racket are hidden in the low light and only leave behind strange shadows that almost dance along the walls and ground of the cavern.

Maintaining its brisk pace, the figure moves beyond the cavern and towards another; a strange crest carved above its entrance and several odd tapestries hanging along its walls.

Flames of green and white flicker along a large chambers walls. Long shadows run across the floor as the light shines upon the several strangely shaped items that sit with in it. A massive figure sits upon a throne. Its identity hidden within the low light of the room; though it’s form seems to reflect the pale green light along itself.
The cloaked figure steps into the chamber and instantly bows towards the room’s occupant.

“Mistress, I have returned.” A low voice states as it lowers its head.

“Indeed you have,” A raspy female voice replies. “Lower you hood, many seek my council and I wish to know if your presences it worth my time.”

The cloaked figure rises to a standing position and offers a quick bow. “My apologies mistress, I did not mean to insult you.”

With a flick of the head, the dark hood falls backwards and reveals a bright red male unicorn with a striped red and white mane.

“Ah Peppermint,” The figure on the throne replies in a less harsh tone. “What news do you bring from your journey?”

The stallion shakes its head and looks towards the floor. “Not good, I’m afraid. Your wishes to gain a powerful ally are unable to be fulfilled.”

*change if up to chrysalis mind control

“Sombra has fallen…how?”

The stallion opens his mouth to speak, but is cut off as a green aura envelops his head.

“Hm, vaporized, that is not good.” The voice hums. “Only one thing could bring the great king down.” The mysterious figure muses as it taps its right limb on the arm rest of the throne. “It seems the crystal heart has been found and used to restore the kingdom.”

Peppermint twitches as the light continues to surround his head. “My apologized, if I acted swifter you would….”

The figure holds up a boxy limb; silencing the graveling stallion. “All is not lost, there is another way.”

“How? If the king is gone then…” Peppermint is silenced again as the green aura increased.

“There is always a…” The mysterious female trails off as a sinister smile appears on her face. ”Hm, interesting, it would seem you have been quite busy these last few months.” The voice says as the massive figure rises from the throne and approaches the stallion; a horn atop its head glowing with same light that surrounds Peppermints head.

“Y-yes…I-I have.” The stallion attempt to add, but it cut off once more.

The figure lets out a low purr as it continues to advance towards the unicorn. “You have captured the hearts of many, but only seem to show interests towards a single mare….Why?”
“C-cinnamon Swirl gave me much love. I-it didn’t seem right to cast her aside once she helped me.”

“Indeed.” The figure quips with a slight nod. “A stronger bond will gain a greater effect.”

Peppermint falls into to a sitting position and continues to spasm as his mind is continuously invaded. “I don’t know now much longer I can take this.”

“Silence, you should feel honored that…” The figure trails off as it lets out a slight gasp followed by a low chuckle. “I can see why she was so fond of you. Most would be putty in your hooves with moves like that.”

“Is this…this is really necessary?”

“No, but it amuses me.” The larger figure replies with a sultry tone. “I find great ‘pleasure’ in my subjects turning those ‘ponies’ into pets.”

The green aura fades from the stallions head, causes him to uncemonially collapse onto the floor and let out an irritated groan.

Knowing that standing is impossible at the moment, Peppermint shifts his gaze back to the figure before him. “With all due respect mistress, if you only left your chambers once in a while. You’d be able to experience these ‘emotions’ first hoof without probing your subjects minds.”

A low chuckle escapes the large figures lips and it leans towards the down stallion; still mostly hidden by the rooms low light. “That’s what I like about you, Peppermint. You never mince your words and get to the heart of the matter. Kind of ironic if you think about it.”

Peppermint opens his mouth to respond, but it cut off by the imposing figure.

“However, that being said; you wouldn’t have come all this way to simply relay a message.”

The red stallion; with great difficultly, Returns to sitting position and flashes the figure a smirk. “Indeed mistress. It may not be what you intended for me to return with when you gave me this mission. But it should suffice none the less.”

“Go on.”

A small wrapped box appears into existence and levitates towards the figure; wrapped in a similar green aura. Emitting the unicorn’s horn. “This is for you.”

Taking the object with her own magic, the room’s mysterious occupant begins to fiddle with the paper wrapping. “What is it?”

“Open it. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.” The stallions grins as he returns to a standing position.

The figure lets out a chuckle and removes the object from the box with her magic. “Hm, what do we have here?”

“It seems even the power of ‘love’ can’t vanquish the all-powerful king. Upon finding that, I sensed a great deal of his power still present. I’ll spare you the details, but I was able to ‘procure’ that and return here undetected.” Peppermint pauses as he bows to the figure on the throne. “Your majesty.”

A loud cackle echoes across the stone walls of the room as the once low green flames brighten; illuminating the room and casting everything in a sickly green light. Before the stallion sits a being few have saw, but many still fear. With a flick of her brightly colored tail, the figure rises from the throne and returns to her hooves.

Standing a few inches taller than the great sun monarch of the Equestrian land; a creature of twisted magic and malice hovers over the red unicorn. The pale green light almost reflects off her carapace shell as massive tattered wings buzz happily. While long pointed fangs are revealed as the creature swings its head back and continues to cackle madly.

Few know of her true form, fewer still know of how she acquired it. Thought many know and fear Chrysalis: the Changeling Queen. Known by many as the one that ‘almost’ took over Equestria’s greatest city: Canterlot.

The queen in question continues to bellow an unholy laugh as she continues to gazes upon the item with in her magical grasp. “Something that at first glance would appear useless, however to the trained eye; it’s something that holds great power.”

Peppermint grins wickedly at the changeling queen. While a wave of green washes over him and reveals a smaller more sinister form.

***

Spears of hot death rain downward. Striking the ground and any unfortunate enough to be in the objects path. A massive army dressed in the well-known Solar Guard’s uniform. Attempts to push back the enemy that opposes them. Bolts of magic fire across the battlefield as soldiers of each side fall beneath their strike. While others are deflected by massive shields cast by other unicorn troops and dodged by the ever nimble pegasi. Or in some cases shrugged off by the mighty earth ponies that fill the ranks.

Another stands along the troops; one known to get their hooves dirty when the situation calls for it. A figure that is know by many while feared and loved by all. The sun monarch of the great land of Equestria. Princess Celestia.

Though the princess doesn’t stand along her troops for ceremony or to sit back and watch. No, she’s there to fight; and is doing a bang up job at that. As she unleashes magical strikes upon the enemy. Easily surpassing the mightiest unicorn solders, while unfolding her wings and sending the toxic black smoke skyward. Making her the envy of every Pegasus. While using her might to…well, you get the point.

The alicorn stood at the heart of the battle not as a princess, but as another trying to protect it. Though the soot from the burning fires nor the caked on mud could tarnish the beauty that many have known the princess for.

Despite being dressed in an ornate version of the Solar Guard armor. The alicorn’s magnificence still showed though. Her flawless while coat, seemed to repel any dirt, while her magic wings seems to always twitch slightly as if on high alert. As her long pink mane seems to flows majestically as if captured in a gentle breeze.

“The cowards have resorted to their trebuchets.” A gruff voice barked at the right of the young alicorn.

“All’s fair in love in war.” Celestia stated, still focused on the battle. “There magic is different than ours.”

Several large flaming boulders strikes a massive barrier over the much of the army’s head; prompting several to glace upwards as the rocks bounce harmlessly off.

“Still, we came here as a small group. So we could avoid this and instead we’ve resorted to the very thing we were trying to stop.”

Celestia furrows her brow at the stallions comment. “Thunder Foot, while I trust your opinion, I…” The princess trails off as she turns to her loyal solder and sees another in his place.

Standing where the seasoned veteran once stood a certain blue hedgehog stands in his place; Dressed in an anthro version of the Solar Armor.
“This is going to be a slaughter, Princess.” The hedgehog states as he gives the alicorn a hard look.

Celestia’s stern expression morphs into that of utter shock as she gazes upon the familiar hedgehog.

“S-Sonic, h-how are you…” The alicorn attempts to stutter out, but is cut off as she’s shoved to her side by the fast approaching hedgehog.

“Look out!” The hedgehog shouts as he shoves the princess out of the way of an oncoming strike.
A massive boulder coated in an almost black flame. Strikes the place the two once stood; sending several unfortunate solders tumbling across the earth.

The princess stares slack jawed at the twisted earth. “You have my thanks, my knight. When this battle is done I shall…” Celestia trails off as she notices the still form of her savior.

No breath left his lungs, or any response to the rather ‘awkward’ position he was now in. The alicorn’s protector simply lied still.

The sounds of the battle seemed to fade into the background as the alicorn continued to stare at the lifeless hedgehog. A puddle of crimson seeped into the ground around him. The sun princess let out an ear piercing scream as she watches the dry earth turn red.

“Does thee thou take pleasure in others suffering?” A familiar voice asks in the distance. The sun princess glance towards forward in an attempt to find its source. Only to see that the battle has shifted to a lifeless waste land.

***

A calming light casts onto the sleeping world from the moon and stares above. Illuminating the land in a soft glow. All is peaceful and calm.
As many peacefully slumber in there warm beds. Everything seems still and calm. Only breaking the silence slightly as the sound of the lands nocturnal creatures or a late night pegasi cut though the silent night.

Even the massive castle of Canterlot, is at rest. The only life still moving about is the castle’s Lunar Guard patrolling the halls. Each vigilant while searching for anything unwelcome in or around the castle walls. As with most nights nothing ever attempted to breach the castles defenses or attempt to invade during this time of night. In fact the only times the guards were call into action during this time. Was to stop an ‘ambassador’ from starting scandal or worse yet; a war. Others had been to simply stop a lover’s quail that started for one reason or another.

Before the return of Princess Luna, many saw this as a sort of punishment. To sweep the empty halls as those around them slept comfortable in their warm beds. While other times it was seen as a challenge by some of the day guards. To see who could patrol the castle borders during the day and it’s halls at night. Few actually were able to do it efficiently and as such, gained bragging rights around the other guards.

However, after the return of the lunar princess; they were seen as an elite division of the normal guard. Mainly because they received much harsher training and had a rather large number of the infamous bat ponies bolstering their ranks.

The moon goddess saw to it that the training times of old were put back into practice. Effectively weeding out the weak to either quit outright or join the Solar Guard. This alone showed than only the mightiest of stallion…or mare. (Both were welcome.) Made up the ranks of the Lunar Guard.

***

A shriek of sheer horror shatters the silence in one fell swoop. Shaking the very foundation the massive castle sits upon as ornate planks and assort clutter fall from the walls and tables; scatter on to the marble floor.

Any that ‘were’ roaming the castle halls have taken refuge in or near one of the archways or dart away from the falling objects. In hopes of protecting themselves from whatever just happened.

Several of the patrolling guards attempt to right themselves as they try to regain their bearings.

“What was that?” A dark blue male Pegasus asks as he gives his head few good shakes.

“I don’t know,” Another Pegasus states as he motioned to his left with an outstretched hoof. “But whatever it was, came from over there.”

***

The great monarch of the sun and co-ruler of Equestria, sits wide awake; trembling in her bed. While beads of sweat form on her brow as she pants frantically; still visibly shaken from her abrupt awakening. The sun princess glances around the room and wipes her forehead; letting out a sigh of relief.

“Phew, It was all a …”

A massive blast of blue magic cuts the princess off as doors to her bed chamber burst open; revealing a very distraught Luna standing on the other side.

“Sister, there is a disturbance in the force!” The lunar princess then notices her elder sister’s current state. “Are you ok?”

Celestia shakes her head slightly as she forces a smile. “I am fine, Luna. It was only a dream; Nothing more.”

The moon princess tilts her head inquisitively to the side at the elder alicorn’s reply. “I don’t think so, dear sister. There is definitely something wrong.” Luna’s expression hardens. “Something has happened to the dreamscape.”

“W-what has happened?” Celestia asks as her ears fold to the back of her head.

“It’s empty!”

“Empty?”

Luna approaches her sister. “Yes Tia, it is. Except for the souls of lost or dammed, the scape is as barren as the badlands.” The blue alicorn stops at the foot of the bed. “So tell us, what was the last thing you remember before you woke up?”

The sun princess lets out a heavy sigh. “The battle of Raven Claw…” She trails off and looks down at bed. “Or at least that’s what I just witnessed.”

“Raven Claw,” Luna muses as she taps her chin with a hoof. “If we remember correctly, that wasn’t as much a battle as it was a bunch of spoiled griffins from a few noble houses. Playing soldier with their family’s war relics.”

Celestia looks up at her younger sister and bits her lower lip. “It was, those foolish children attempted to start a revolt with a few broken down relics of a forgotten war.” The princess lets out a low ‘humph’. “It would have been kind of cute, if they didn’t start trying to takeover border towns.”

“And we can only assume that you experienced something ‘different.” Luna inquires as she leans towards her elder sister. “Or are we to assume that you just like making us worry?”

“No, it was different,” The elder alicorn begins as she turns away from her sister. “Very different. It was as if somepony was trying to make is as horrible as possible and that’s not even the weirdest part about it.”

Luna’s ears perk up. “More so, then a barren land of decay and death?” Celestia opens her mouth to speak, but is cut off. “Yes sister, we peered into your dream before it ended. Though we fail to understand what’s ‘weirder’ than seeing scared earth, where lush fields should be.”

“Sonic was there. He saved my life at the cost of his own.” The elder alicorn trails off as she glances back towards her bed. “It doesn’t make sense, why of all ponies was he there and more importantly why was it him that…” Celestia trails off once more and looks up at her younger sister. “Luna?”

The moon goddess eyes all but bulge out from her skull as her lips move like a fish out of water. Only to morph into a snarl as her horn begins to emit a bright glow. “Cognition tampering.”

“What?”

“Somepony is planning something most foul. “

Before the elder alicorn can comment, the lunar princess disappears in a flash of light.

***

Even as the soothing rays of Luna’s moon shines from above. Citizens of all factions lie awake in their beds. Many simply scratch their heads in disbelief at the sudden jostling from their slumber. While others begin roaming their homes as if the answer lies within the confines of their home.

Some even awaken rattled from their dreams, but then shrug it off and attempt to return there slumber.

While a select few are able to recall a twisted version of a pleasant or mundane memory.

“What in tarnation?”
“Oh, that wasn’t as super awesome as I recall.”

“Gracious, what a simply dreadful dream.

“O-oh my, t-that not how it happened at a-all.”

“Whoa, that is so not cool.”

And very specific mare lets out a scream that rivaled that of the solar princess’s.

An ear spitting scream cuts though the silence a certain mare crashes to the floor and begins frantically panting.

“Twilight!” A voice shouts from the darkness as the sound of rapid footsteps near the lavender mare.

Delicate hands wrap around the young unicorn and lift her into a sitting position. Twilight almost coos at the sensation and wiggles the appendages slightly before opening her eyes….And spots two golden orbs looking down at her.

“B-Blaze!” The mare gasps as she almost leaps from the lilac feline’s grasp. “W-what are you doing here?”

“Expecting someone else?” The Sol Princess quips as she smirks at the unicorn below her.

Twilight blushes and looks way. “N-no, why would you think that?”

“I have my reasons.” Blaze’s expression shifts to a frown. “But seriously, what did you see?”
The mare rolls out of the cat’s grip. “It’s not like it matters. It was only a dream. “

“One so powerful, that it caused you to awaken in such a fashion.” Blaze adds as she shifts to a sitting position. “Now Miss Sparkle, what was it?”

Twilight mirrors the lilac cat. “I still don’t see why it matters, unless.” The mare raises an eyebrow at the one sitting before her. “You don’t think?”

“It is a possibility, given that the only one still in slumber is Spike.” Blaze says as she motions to the small dragon still lying in the basket.

“No, I’m awake….so very much awake.” The young drake replies as he blankly stares at the ceiling.

***

A certain blue hedgehog lies awake as he awkwardly sprawled onto of a large bed.

“Well that was odd.” Sonic mutters out as he shifts into another position. “I wonder what caused-GAH!”

The hedgehog is cut off as bright light flashes at the right side of his bed prompting him to shield his eyes and turn away.

Sonic lowers his hand and turns towards the source of the disturbance and lets out a small chuck.

“Lulu, what are you doing here?” He grins and continues. “I didn’t know you made house calls.”

The moon princess turns away and sways side to side uncomfortably. “We’ve come to discuss a matter of great importance. “ Luna trails off as she awkwardly flicks her massive wings and blushes a deep shade of crimson. “You’ll have to forgive us; we have never been with another in their bed chambers before…Well except for sisters. We fear that you may get the wrong impression for us being here.”

“Just relax and take a seat.” Sonic says as he motions to empty side of the bed. “I’m probably not going back to sleep anytime soon. So take your time.”

Luna nods and gingerly sits down onto the empty space on the large bed.

***

“Sonic, is that you?” A certain cyan mare asks as she begins making her rounds down the hallway; stopping at the door to Sonics room and peaking it. “I thought I heard…voices.”

Rainbow Dash trails off as she notices a very peculiar sight. A sleep on the bed is her roommate and not so subtle crush; Sonic. Though was makes this out of the ordinary, is that Princess Luna is curled up next to him. Sleeping soundly as she cuddled the sleeping hedgehog.

The cyan mare grits her teeth and lets out a low growl. As her eyes flash a bright shade of red and white aura begins to rolls off her, like fire. “Of all the rotten dirty, low down-Hey what’s this?”

A piece of bright blue parchment catches her eye as is falls onto her face. Rainbow Dash snatches the object with her wind and examines it.

“What the buck?”

***

-A few moments earlier.

“So, that is why we can’t talk of this matter here.” The lunar princess finishes as she motions to the rooms cloudy interior. “It’s not that we don’t trust Miss Dash, rather it’s that…”

“Yeah, I get it.” Sonic says cutting the alicorn off. “Great importance and all that,”

“So you understand?”

“Sure but,” The hedgehog scratches his head. “I don’t know if I’d be able to help any.”

Luna grins at the comment and leans closer. “We’ve seen what you’re capable of and we think you’d be perfectly able to assist us.”

“Hm still, what exactly am I supposed to ‘help’ you with?” Sonic asks using finger quotes to emphasize his question.

“Not here, but elsewhere.” The moon goddess states as she glances around the room.

“Ok, let me just grab my shoes and..”

“That won’t be necessary.” Luna says cutting Sonic off. “Where we’re going, they won’t be needed.”

The blue hedgehog frowns at the princess. “What do you mean by ‘not needed’? Where are we…”

“Ssssllleeepp!” Luna smoothly commands as she cuts the hedgehog off once again.

Sonic’s eyes roll back as he falls abruptly back onto the bed and begins to quietly snore.

The princess giggles as the hedgehog’s sleeping form. “That is just adorable.”

“Sonic, is that you?” A familiar voice asks from down the hallway.

“Crap!”

Scanning the room, Luna spots a piece of blue parchment, ink well, and a light blue quill. Using her magic she levitates it them to her and begins to hastily scribble a message onto it. Just as a shadow appears from under the doorway, the princess finishes her message and turns towards a conveniently placed vanity mirror.

“Sleep!”

Luna’s head hits the pillow just as the door begins to open.

***

-Present time

Rainbow Dash glances as the parchment held in her wing, back at the sleeping forms of Sonic and Luna, and then back at the letter. “What the buck is this?”

‘~Miss Dash,
We hope you find this letter, before jumping to any sort of conclusion.

Please understand, we’ve come to speak with Sonic regarding something that has just come to our attention. As you may have noticed, not many ponies are asleep during this time.’

Rainbow Dash glances out a nearby window and notices that Ponyville is rather active for such a late hour. The mare shrugs it off and goes back to the letter.

‘We ask that you refrain from trying to wake either of us, for it will break the link and will make our venture here pointless.

Thank you Rainbow Dash,

Princess Luna’

Gritting her teeth once more, the cyan mare crumples the letter with her wind, lets it fall to the floor, and gives it a mighty stomp for good measure.

“Whatever,” Rainbow Dash mutters out as she exits the room.

***

Endless stars and galaxies fill an endless void. The great cosmos spans in every direction for all to see. Spires of white light hang in the distance as massive planets rotate around giant orbs of light; Moving at an almost non-existent pace.

An awestruck Sonic gazes upon the great expanse. Watching as stars shoot across the night sky, the hedgehog takes a few steps back; causing something to let out a loud crunch as he steps on it.

Glancing around, the blue hedgehog takes a look at his surroundings. Massive craters fill the landscape, breaking the otherwise mundane wash of white that consumes the area. Turning back to where he was once facing. Sonic notices a planet much like his own.

Pure white clouds hover over the vast stretches of land and numerous oceans. Though unlike his own world, no massive space stations or vast clusters of trash hover around the planet. Not a single piece of foreign debris is present.

“So this is…”

“…the moon, yes, “A voice says to Sonic’s right. Prompting him to jump in response and turn towards the source. “…or at least a very good interpretation of it.”

The blue hedgehog raises an eyebrow at the dark alicorn besides him. “Come again, I don’t think I heard you right.”

Luna grins as she turns to a confused Sonic. “What you are standing on is the moon, or at least the closest thing to it that one would find in this realm.”

“You don’t mean…”

“Yes, Sonic, we humbly welcome you to the dreamscape” The alicorn flares out her wings for effect.

“Neat.” The hedgehog responds flatly.

Luna tilts her head to the side. “This is much more than ‘neat’. This is the realm of dreams. A place few have gone, but many have sought to go.”

Sonic shrugs. “Uh, super neat.”

The moon princess shakes her head. “You are the first mortal to step forth into this great expanse. Surely you can sum up your thought with something other than ‘neat’.”

“Ok,” Sonic begins as he looks around. “It’s vast, cold, and the ground is kind of crunchy.”

“And just like that, the magic is gone.” Luna comments with an annoyed huff.

“Hey!”

The lunar princess holds a hoof to her mouth as she attempts to stifle a chuckle.

“So uh, what was so important that you had to bring me here of all places.” The hedgehog asks as he gazes upon the landscape. “It seems a bit much to summon me to the Twilight zone, just to have a chat.”

Luna’s playful expression morphs onto a serious one. “We are sure you have noticed this alright, but as you can see we are quite alone here.”

Sonic scans the surroundings and turns back to the princess. “Yeah so, didn’t you just say not may come here?”

The alicorn shakes her head. “Not in the sense as you are now, but through their dreams.” Luna scowls as her own statement. “This realm should be filled with thousands, if not millions of ponies and other creatures living there greatest fantasies or fears. However, as you can see there is not.”

“What about over there?” The hedgehog asks as he gestures towards a cluster of green orbs. “Not everyone is gone if those are there.”

Luna lets out a heavy sigh and drapes a wing over the hedgehog. “They are the dreams of the lost and damned. We can do nothing for them, other than assure they live their greatest desires before passing.”

Sonic scratches his head and turns back towards the princess. “What do you mean by that? Are they in a coma or something?”

“Some yes, others are trapped and are beyond saving.”

The hedgehog opens his mouth to speak, but is cut off.

“Though, that is not why we have asked you here.” Luna says as she motions Sonic to follow. “We’d hoped that you’d be able to shed some light on why this realm is without its ponies.”

“We’ll I’d say everyone’s awake.” Sonic states flatly as if the answer was odious. “I mean where else could they be if not here.”

“Yes, but why.”

The hedgehog taps his chin as he thinks of an answer. “That is the one million dollar question, now isn’t it?”

“What?”

Sonic gives the alicorn a dismissive wave. “Never mind, well if I had to guess. Assuming that this in the normal time you guys sleep. Something has woken everyone up; Intention or not.”

Luna leans closer eager for the hedgehog to continue. “Yes?”

“Something very bad, considering the only ones still ‘sleeping,’” He says with finger quotes. “Are the ones that can’t wake up; or at least that’s my guess.”

The princess face hooves. “Son of a…”

Next Chapter preview

Gilda: "Well, well, well. What do we have here?"

Dash: "I swear, it's not what it looks like!"

Blaze: "wha-who! How do you like me now?"

Sonic: "Well there's something you don't see every day."

Birds of Prey

Author's Note

Things are not right, a great evil dwells in the shadows. What will our heroes face in there journey?

Those questions and much more will be answered on the next; BATTLE FOR EQUESTIRA!

All Characters belong to there respective owners.

A/N: Phew, this was a dozy. Made this a bit longer as planed, since you guys waited a while for this thing to get started. So think of some of this as a bit of a bonus.

Anyway, let me know what you guys think in the comment section below.

PEACE

Friendship is Witchcraft

Chapter - 9

Friendship is Witchcraft

“Nice work,” A gruff voice comments as a large figure looks up at a now restored set of iron doors and lets out an impressed whistle. “I gotta say Twilight; I’m impressed how this turned out.”

The lavender mare blushes a deep crimson, in response to the complement. “Thanks,” Twilight mutters out as she looked away and began pawing at the stone floor with her right hoof. “It wasn’t that difficult, you just have to remember the key weight bearing points when taking on a task such as this.” The mare’s eyes widen as she then process the rest of the former hedgehog’s statement and turns towards the hulking form with a scowl on her face. “Wait, you didn’t think I could do it?”

Sonic holds his arms out in deference. “No of course not, I had total faith in you. I just didn’t expect you to do such a good job, that’s all.” The former hedgehog says with a smirk. “Besides, you’re adorable when you’re flustered.”

“I-I’m not Flustered, I just wanted to…” Twilight trails off at her realization and then narrows he eyes. “Well played, Sonic. You managed to…”

Sonic cuts the mare off as he taps her snout. “Boop.”

“Hey!” Twilight mutters as she looks away and scrunches her muzzle.

“Oh sweet merciful Faust,” A new voice shouts in annoyance. “Either kiss, buck, or whatever you plan on doing. Just stop with all that stupid flirting.”

“Rainbow Dash,” Another voice chastised. “That is no way to talk to a friend, besides we are in the presence of royalty. You can at least show some composure. Or is it that somepony is jealous?”

“Pfft! Me jealous? As if. I’m just not a fan of all the mushy stuff.”

“Your mouth says one thing, but your face says another.” A third voice chimes in. “If I didn’t know better you I’d say you rather enjoy the sort of canter.”

“Buck you, Blaze!”

“Hm tempting, but you’re not my type.”

The former hedgehog rubs his temples to in response oncoming headache that’s about to start. And then turns to the mare next to him. “Twilight, what….” Sonic trails off as he notices a very red Twilight muttering to herself.

Sonic snaps his finger in front of the unicorn’s face several times before letting out a sigh. The former hedgehog lets out a heavy sigh as he scoops up the blushing mare into his arms, opens one of the iron doors, and enters the room. “Nice going guys, you broke Twilight!”

~***~

As the massive door lets out loud creak, upon opening. The rooms’ occupants turn towards the source of the noise and acknowledge the arrival of the towering form of Sonic and the still petrified Twilight; now tucked under his left arm.

“Ah Sir Sonic, how nice of you to finally join us.” The princess of the night says in mock annoyance. “We were beginning to think you wandered off with Miss Twilight there.” Luna says gesturing to the still frozen unicorn under Sonic’s left arm.

The former hedgehog lets out an amused chuckle, as he scratches the back of his head with his free hand. “My apologized Princess, but two ton doors don’t lift themselves.”

“You know, addressing in such a matter is not necessary.” Luna mutters as she ruffles her wings slightly.

“Whoa!” Another voice chimes in as a certain (Usually cyan) pegasus mutters out as she stares slack gawed at the former hedgehog’s towering form.

“Well, someponie has been eating there Wheaties.” Pinkie Pie adds as she mirrors everyone else.

“Ah’ll say,” Applejack mutters out as she observes Sonic’s new form. “Sugarhog done and got himself some height.”

“Oh my, he’s so…so fluffy.” Fluttershy comments with a small ‘squee.’

“Gracious, he’s as taller than the princess’s.” Rarity states as she slowly turns toward the white alicorn.

“Nonsense,” Celestia begins as she closes the gap between herself and Sonic. “There is no way that somepony can…” The sun goddess trails off as she’s forced to glances upwards to make eye contact with the former hedgehog. “Wow.”

As the former hedgehog glances around the room, he spots a certain facy dressed feline standing in the corner.

“Hey Something wrong, Blaze?”

The sol guardian glances toward the direction of the voice, but then turns away and begins twiddling her fingers. “No, nothing of the sort, I’m just trying process this turn of events.”

Sonic lets out an amused chuckle at his friends responses. “Not really, the response I was expecting.” He then turns t the mood princess. “What about you?”

Luna shakes her head in response. “Neigh, we imaged they would be frightened by your transformation; like we were at first.”

The former hedgehog raises an eyebrow at the alicorn’s comment. “Wait, you were…”

“Oh, you just look so warm and fluffy.” Pinkie interrupts as she steps towards Sonic. “Like a big teddy.”

“Uh ok,”

“Ow, I just want to give you a big ole hug.”

Everyone goes silent at the party pony’s comment.

“Pinkie, dear,” Rarity begins, but is cut off as the mare goes into a full gallop as she get’s ready to pounce.

“I’m gonna, do it, I’m gonna-Hey!”

A gloved hand grabs onto the pink mare’s tail; only for its owner to be ragged several feet, before the parry pony eventually comes to a complete stop.

Pinkie makes several attempts to pull free, before drawing her attention to the one that stopped her attempted ‘glomp.’

“Hey Blaze, what gives?” The mare demands as she tries to pull free. “Let me go.”

“I will when you cease this foolishness.” The Burmese cat states as she grabs another handful of the mare’s tail. “Your antics are most…”

“Yo Blaze, could lay off a bit.” Sonic says as he gestures to the Sol Guardian. “Pinkies is just being, well Pinkie. Which you and me both know is a tad off.”

“That’s right!” Pinkie announces before her eyes widen as the statement sinks in. “HEY!”

The room occupants (sans Pinkie and Twilight) make a futile attempt to their amusement. Some succeed and only manage to let out an amused snicker. While others (Rainbow Dash, in particular) bursts out laughing and fall to the floor.

Sonic opens his mouth to comment, but is cut off by fidgety voice. “So um…what’s wrong with Twilight?” A certain butter yellow pegasus inquires as she stands at the far end of the room.

“She just froze up.” The former hedgehog states as he sets the mare onto the floor; who despite her current state, is still able to stand upright.

“Oow, oow, I got this!” Pinkie Pie proclaims as bounces in front of petrified mare. “Alright, now I’m going to start off with something small.” Twilight remain still; continuing to mutter nonsense to herself. “SURPRISE!!!!” The party pony lets out an ear drum shattering shout as she pops a party favor in the mare’s face.

Noticing that Twilight’s expression hasn’t changed, Pinkie scratches the back of her head with a hoof and begins rummaging around in her mane. “Ghee wiz, I figured that would have work, maybe I should try something with a bit more…”

“NO!” Everyone shouts in unison; stopping the party pony in her tracks; who in return lets out a sad sigh as her ears droop.

“Maybe we should try a different technique,” The sun princess suggest as she leans over and whispers something into the former hedgehog’s ear.

Sonic turns to the white alicorn and tilts his head. “You think that will work?” The princess responds with a small nod.

“Yeah, maybe something that doesn’t cause us to all go deaf!” Rainbow Dash retorts as she rubs one of her ears with a hoof. “My ears are still ringing.”

“You guys are no fun.” Pinkie grumbles as she crosses her forelegs across her chest.

“Hush darling,” Rarity states as she adjusts her large brimmed hat.

Stopping in front of the lavender mare, Sonic leans down and deep breath. He then blows into the unicorns ear; snapping Twilight out of her dazed state.

“Gah!” The mare shrieks and she rears up onto her hinds legs and falls onto the floor. “What the buck, Sonic?”

The werehog lets out an amused chuckle as he reaches down and helps the mare to her hooves. “Hey don’t get mad at me, it was Sunny’s idea.”

Celestia hold a hoof to her muzzle and lets out a small giggle as she watches her student mutters unde her breath as she lifted back up. ”I only suggested that Sonic should use whatever method he’s done to jostle you from a similar state.”

“Well, you could have tried something else.” Twilight grumbles as she gives her head a few good shakes.

“Hey, you can’t argue with the results.”
“Yeah, but still…”

“Ah don’t mean to be a bother,” A certain farm pony begins as she directs the conversation elsewhere. “But exactly were ya two doing before we showed up? From what ya looked like ah moment ago, it musta’ been somethin’”

Sonic turns to the now restored Night Princess and as he scratches the back of head. “You want to take this, Lunabell? Or should I?”

“We shall attempt to clear up this ‘misunderstanding’.” Luna says with a stern nod and turns to the rooms’ other occupants. “To put it simply, we were trying to reverse the effects of….shall we say Sir Sonic’s current state. This as you can tell, our efforts haven’t been successful.”

The sun princess taps her chin with a hoof. “This would explain your ‘former state’ along with your request for assistance.”

“Exactly,” Luna confirms with a nod. “Do in part to the events prior and Sir Sonic’s ‘ambient abilities’ we haven’t been able to resolve this.”

“Are you referring to Sonic’s, magic absorption?” The Sol guardian begins; gaining a raised eyebrow and a nod from the Night Princess. “A few of us came to that conclusion during that match between…your other self and Sonic.”

“But how does somepony like Sonic do that?” Twilight inquires as she taps her chin with a hoof. “I mean, unless the emeralds are involved. That should be possible.”

“Not true,” Sonic states as he holds up a finger on his right hand to emphasize this. “I may not be able to use magic like you guys do, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have access to any.

“Explain.” Twilight demands sternly.

“Well, you ever wonder why I don’t simply burst into flames while running.”

The mare gasps. “Like a barrier?”

“Not quite, it’s more like an aura…I think” Sonic corrects as he taps his chin. “Someone explained it to me once a long time ago, but I don’t remember the details, but I think it has something to do with my natural energy...or I guess ‘magic’ in this case. That prevents me from bursting into flames from friction. Or was it linked to my…chaos reserves? I can’t remember exactly. There’s also my link to the chaos emeralds, but now we’re getting off track.”

Twilight taps her chin with a hoof for a few moments as she ponders this new information. “Interesting, this is a topic I’d like to address at a later time. However, I’m curious if the same thing is true for Blaze.” The mare turns to the Lilac feline. “Given that you have control of the flame, I mean.”

“Another topic for another time,” Blaze begins as she gestures to the hulking form of Sonic. “Now then, back to the topic at hand. How exactly does someone of your ‘abilities’ able to absorb another’s magic? Last I checked; you were only able to do that with chaos energy and from what I’ve been told. Magic is as much a part of an individual of this realm as our natural energy is to you and me.”

“So many questions so few answers.” Sonic mutters as he scratches his chin. “I guess, it would be easier to just show you.” The former hedgehog turns to the Night Princess. “Assuming that’s ok with you that is.”

“Of course,” The alicorn says with a smile. “Just don’t hold it too for too long; my normal reserves are rather low at the moment.”

The werehog smiles at the mare as he hovers one of his massive hands over her head. “It will only take a second.” Sonic adds as he places his hand on the alicorn’s head; which causes her mythical mane to disenchant, turn light blue, and fall flat across her neck and back; causes a few of the room’s occupants to gasp at the action.

“Now I’m not very good at explaining this sort of this, but from you guys mentioned earlier. I guess I’m able to absorb some of the princess’s radiant magic, while also neutralizing it.” Sonic waves his free hand around in a swivel motion as he explains this. “Unfortunately I can’t just turn it off. It’s kind of always on. Plus, for whatever reason the abilities I had from the last time I took this form, all carried over.”

“But what caused it?” Rarity attentively asks with an uneasy expression. “I mean, one doesn’t simply take on a new form without a reason.”

Sonic shrugs and removes his hand from the princess’s head. “You got me, maybe it was the mixing of chaos and…pony magic.”

“Alicorn,” Twilight corrects.

“Alicorn magic, whatever.” Sonic then places his hand back onto Luna’s head; causing her mane to disenchant again. “But whatever caused it, made for an interesting match.” The former hedgehog; much to the princess’s dismay, begins removing his hand lone just enough for the alicorn’s mane to re-enchant. Before placing it back on it; causing it to lose its power and fall flat.

“As intriguing as this may be,” The Night Princess begins as she swats the former hedgehog’s hand away with a hoof. “We assume, that’s not the only reason thee have come here.” She gestures to the mane six; who are still wearing their elements. “Or else ye wouldn’t have brought those.”

“Well you see,” Twilight begins as she nervously rubs her right foreleg against her left one. “We were concerned that…that…”

“That you had gone all evil miss bad pony and revered back to Nightmare Moon.” Pinkie interrupts; much to the unicorn’s annoyance.

“Pinkie!”

“What? That is why we’re here isn’t it?” The party pony asks as she looks around. “I mean other than finding out what Spiky and the princess were up to a moment ago. Wasn’t that the whole reason we’re here?”

“Yes, well you could have approached the topic with a bit more tact.” Rarity begins as she trots next to the pink mare. “I mean, we’re in the presences of the rulers of our land. One doesn’t simply accuse one of our rulers of such things.”

“Tis alright, Miss Rarity.” Luna says with a kind smile. “We were not offended.”

“We’ve know one another long enough, not to let something as silly as titles get in the way.” Celestia adds, with a smile mirroring her sister’s.

“Though that does answer the next question I was going to ask.” Sonic ponders as if lost in thought.

“Indeed,” The Night Princess clarifies with a small nod. “We feared this would be a possible outcome resulting from our actions.”

The werehog turns to the alicorn. “I think you better handle this one, Lunabell.”

“We believe that would be wise, Sir Sonic.

“Now wait one cotton pickin’ minute.” Applejack interrupts with a hint of annoyance in her voice. “Now ah don’t mean to be rude, but why in the Sam hells are you referring to Sugar hog as ‘sir’ like that?”

“Applejack language,” Rarity chastises as she turns the farm pony. “Thought now that I think about it, It does raise the question as to why.”

“I was kind of wondering the same thing.” Rainbow Dash says as she scratches her head with a hoof.

“Me too,” Twilight says with a nervous smile.

“ME THREE,” Pinkie enthusiastically adds with a bounce.

“I uh was also wondering why you added such title to our friend’s name. “ Fluttershy cowers behind a chair. “However, you don’t want to tell us. That’s fine too,”

Luna raises her head as if almost snubbing the others. “Tis is not a proper title for my savior? Our protector….our Knight.” The alicorn drapes a wing over the former hedgehog’s back and smiles at him warmly.” We see no other title that is a better fit.”

“So, uh Sugar hog really did send yer darker self packin’?” Applejack inquires as she tilts her head to the side. “Nothing personal, but ah’m finding that mighty hard to believe.” The mare turns to Sonic. “Uh, no offence.”

“None taken,”

The night princess holds a hoof to her muzzled, in an attempt to stifle a laugh.

“What’s so darn funny?” The farm pony exclaims.

“You see Miss Applejack, had our ‘other self’ been in control.” The princess says using her massive wings to make a ‘quoting’ gesture. “Then the match would have occurred quite differently. However…” Luna trails off as she consumed by a dark mist and emerges as Nightmare Moon. “Our other self was never part of the equation.”

Everyone back peddles at the reveal (except for Sonic) and takes attack positions; as if preparing to use some counter measure at any given moment.

“I still don’t understand why you guys are afraid of this form.” Sonic asks as he takes a step towards the Princess of Nightmares. “A lot of thoughts come to mind, but ‘fear’ is not one of them.”

“What would one of these ‘thoughts’ be?” The alicorn ask, gesturing her wings in the same fashion as before.

“Well, if I had to narrow it down to one word,” Sonic begins as he taps his chin and smirks as the princess. “It would be, exotic.”

The faux Nightmare Moon blushes profusely at the comment as she nervously flutters her massive wings. “Yes, well, we wish others shared that sentiment. Most just fear us.”

“Well, that’s their loss. They don’t know what there…” Sonic trails off as he notices the element bearers, Blaze, and the Sun princess are talking secretly amongst themselves. “What are you guys doing?”

Twilight looks up from the huddle and turns to the former hedgehog. “Discussing the best course of action, on how to handle this.”

“’Best course of action’?” Sonic ponders as he turns to the dark alicorn. “Do they think this is some sort of trick or spell?”

“The only spell I’m under is yours.” Nightmare says with a seductive purr.

Sonic chuckles at the comment as he turns back towards the others. “C’mon guys, stop with your conspiracy theories. It’s actually rather easy to explain, if you’ll give me a minute.”

Celestia looks up from at the former hedgehog and scowls. “You have five.”

“Yeesh, tough crowd. I guess I’ll start from the beginning…”

The night princess uses her magic to grab a crystal object from a nearby shelf and sets in on the floor. Then casts her magic onto it; creating a projection of herself and Sonic, prior to the recent events.

“In case you’re wondering,” The faux Nightmare begins as she glances at the others in the room. “It’s a memory stone.”

~Flashback~

A certain blue hedgehog zips down a long hallway, before skidding to a stop before a very frantic looking alicorn; pacing back in forth.

“Yo Lunabell, what’s up? You needed me for something?”

The Night princess stops dead in her tracks and looks at the blue hedgehog. “Oh thank the stars you are here, we are in a rather troublesome bind.”

Sonic tilts his head at the rather disheveled appetence of the young alicorn. “what’s up?”

“Remember how we spoke of tonight’s main event and how it would as you said; ‘get everypony pumped for gladiator style combat’?”

The hedgehog nods in agreement. “I think I recall saying something like that. Why what happened?”

“Well you see,” Luna begins.

“Let me guess, those clowns didn’t show up?” Sonic asks, cutting the princess off.

Luna nods and lets out a sigh. “It would seem that no pony has seen nor heard from them since this morning. We hope nothing terrible has befallen them.”

“Na, probably just got wussed out.” Sonic says with a passive wave. “Some just can’t handle pressure.”

The princess frowns.” Be as it may, we are left without a main event for this evening’s proceedings.” Luna’s eyes widen upon her realization. “….unless.”

“’Unless’ what?”

“Do you recall during one of our trips into the dreamscape, that you have…oh how did you say it? ‘Not not a chance to stretch your legs in quite some time.”

~***~

“Wait hold up!” A familiar voice cuts in, breaking the spell and drawing everyone’s attention towards a certain pegasus. “When did you two start doing the whole `into the nightosphere’ thing?”

“Nightosphere?” The dark alicorn repeats as she raises her brow. “That’s rather cleaver, mind if I use that?”

Rainbow Dash shrugs. “Yeah sure, go ahead.”

“Splendid,” The faux Nightmare hums with smile. “However, to answer your question; we’ve been frequently the outer realms of the Dreamscape a few times a week for about a month now.”

Sonic notices the vary expression of his friends and interjects. “Usually just on slow nights, just chatting and what not.” The former hedgehog rolls his eyes. “Didn’t think I’d have to go into details, but judging from your reactions; I was wrong.”

Rarity lets out a huff and turns away.

“Anyway, back to the topic at hand. Luna had asked for my assistance and…”

“I remember mentioning it once or twice.” The blue hedgehog ponders as he taps his chin. “I still don’t see how that helps the situation.”

The princess smiles and approaches the hedgehog. “What if we had a solution rectify that?

“I’m listening.”

“As you’ve probably already been told, we didn’t always have this appearance. For a short while, our looks were that associated of nightmares.”

“Yeah, I think Twilight mentioned something like that, during one of her ‘attempts’ at teaching me about Equestrian history. Something about the mare of nightmare or…”

“Nightmare Moon,” Luna corrects.

“Yeah that’s it, but I still don’t see how that helps out situation or let’s me scratch that itch for adventure, I’ve been having.”

Luna looks at her hooves for a moment before responding. “We if it comes to it; we may need to find an ‘alternative’ to tonight’s main event.”

“Like what, a battle?” The princess nods, causing the hedgehog to raise an eyebrow and scratch his head. “No offence Lunabell, but it wouldn’t be much of a match if it was just you and me. I don’t think I’d stand much of a change against those demigod powers of yours. Plus, I can’t in good conches ever hit you.”

“And why is that?”

“Because you’re my friend,” Luna blushes at comment and returns to focus to the floor. “I mean if you wanted to spar or something that’d be different. But I can’t in good conches just start wailing on you just for entertainment. Plus, I’d probably get lynched if I even put a mark on that pretty face of yours.”

The princess shuffles her hooves for a few moments as she process what the blue hedgehog just said. “We too value this bond we share. You call us friend and we know you say that with true sincerity; which is something that we have not experienced in quite some time.” Luna looks up at Sonic and smiles. “You have been a good friend to us, which makes what we are about to ask rather difficult.” The alicorn takes a deep breath before continuing. “We ask that you do battle with us during tonight’s main attraction.” Sonic opens his mouth to comment, but is cut off as Luna holds up a hoof. “Before you object to this, please hear us out.”

Sonic crosses his arms and grumbles under his breath.

“While we ask that you battle us for the ponies that have come to this event. It won’t be between you and me, rather somepony else.”

“I don’t understand, it’s with you, but with you…how does that…”

“Remember how we mentioned our other self, a moment ago?” Sonic nods. “Well, that’s you’ll do battle with.”

“How? I thought it went away when…”

Sonic trails off as a blast mist surrounds the princess; consuming her entire form within it. Only to dissipate a moment later and reveal the night princess’s ‘other’ known persona. One that many still believe exists within the young alicorn; Nightmare Moon.

“Neat,” The blue hedgehog mutters as he watches the alicorn’s transformation. While keeping the same expression, Sonic scans the new figure before him. Stopping once he’s made eye contact with the princess and takes a step back.

“Does my new appearance scare you?” The now black alicorn inquires as she looks down the blue hedgehog. “We assure you, no harm will befall you less…”

“So, this is the infamous Nightmare Moon?” Sonic asks as he cuts the princess off and gives her a familiar smirk. “I like the new look, Lunabell. It’s fierce, but also mysterious.”

The princess tilts her head. “You do not fear us, while in this form?”

“Why would I?” The hedgehog asks, as if the answer is odious. “It’s still you; just with a more…I don’t know, a sort of Mystic Night thing going.”

Luna raises an eyebrow at the hedgehog’s reply and then begins to chew on her lower. “You are perhaps the only individual that hasn’t shown any sort of fear or uneasiness to this form.” The princess then begins tapping her chin with a hoof. “Most curious, indeed.”

“So let me get this straight, if these guys don’t show up before there match tonight. You want us to battle in arena you set up. While you’re disguised as,” Sonic trails off as he gestures to the alicorn’s new form. “that.” Luna nods, causing a frown to appear on the hedgehog’s face. “I don’t know I’m not really digging this idea. Plus, I have to ask, are you ok with this?”

“Honestly we wish there was an alternative,” The faux Nightmare Moon replies as if the words had a foul taste to them. “We’ve spent the better part of the day trying to think of an alternative way…thus the fake greeting our subjects at the front entrance. “

“I was wondering what that was all about. For what it’s worth, it was a convincing copy.”

“Thank you.”

“But it didn’t fool either Blaze or me.”

“Oh?”

“The one putting on the fake got the attitude and what not right,” Sonic then taps his nose to emphasize his next point. “You can’t fool the nose; we were able to ‘sniff’ out the fake rather easily.” Sonic states using air quotes when appropriate.

“We shall keep that in mind, however back to the issue at hoof. If an alternative solution to this conundrum were possible we’d seek that rather than ask that you do something that, you’ve already expressed not wanting to do. But as they say, ‘desperate times call for desperate measures’.”

Sonic crosses his arms as the frown from earlier shifts to a scowl. “I still don’t like this.”

“Please, we shall be forever in your debt if you assist us.” Luna pleads.

“There’s no need for that,” The blue hedgehog states as he holds up his right hand. “I mean, do you really want everyone to think that Nightmare Moon has returned? Fake or not it could do more harm than good, if we carry this out.”

The young alicorn smiles and drapes a dark wing over the hedgehog’s back. “That is where you’re wrong, you see what we have in mind is…”

“So after some planning, we came up with a solution that would help both parties. Luna gets the ‘main event’ to the show and I get to do something exciting.”

As Sonic finishes his explanation of the chains of events that lead up to the nights final match. The rooms’ occupants stare at the former hedgehog in varied forms of shock and annoyance; save for Luna who rolls her eyes at her sister’s scowl aimed at the two.

“Sister, your face will stay that way if you keep it like that for too long.” The Night princess comments as she smirks at the elder alicorn. “Which as you can image would hurt your omnipotent image of calm sincerity.”

“You took the joke a bit too far there, Lunabell.” Sonic mutters as he leans towards the night princess.”

“Oh, we see that…”

“You do realize that our subjects will believe that tonight’s event actually happened.” Celestia comments as she cuts her younger sister off. “They’ll think that Sonic will have actually defeated your Nightmare form.”

Luna turns to Sun princess and gives her a flat look. “We are actually counting on it.”

“What?”

The night princess lets out a sigh before continuing. “Even though, it’s been quite some time since our return and the ‘purification’ by the elements. Our subjects’ sill fears us and calls us by the name of our former self. Many still have nightmares of the possibility of ‘eternal night’ and even after we have ridden them of this fear. They still refuse to even look at us; much less share the same patch of road. Even when traveling in the same direction. Dirvering their routes entirely or using the other side of street..”

Celestia opens her mouth to comment, but is stopped by a stern glare from her sister. “Please let us finish. While we can understand some uneasiness, this constant fear has gone on long enough.”

“So we came up with a plan to fix this..sort of.” Sonic cuts in and places a hand on her alicorn’s shoulder. “While things didn’t go like we wanted, everyone out there thinks that ‘Mare on the Moon’ is now gone for good…Or until something comes up and Luna needs to make her appear again.”

“Isn’t that a bit underhanded?” Applejack comments in annoyance.

“Yes, but considering that everyone was still skittish around Lunabell, despite Sunny saying that Nightmare Moon wasn’t around anymore. Proves that a lot of people…or I guess ponies didn’t believe her claim. Despite, you know being the all powerful ruler and all.”

The Sun princess frowns at the former hedgehog and then shifts to a scowl at she turns to her younger sister. “While we can see the merit for your actions, it still doesn’t excuse what you did. Now everypony will doubt the power of the elements and question…”

“Oh for crying out loud lighten up!” Sonic cuts in; much to the alicorns annoyance.

“Excuse me?”

“We get it, it wasn’t the most well thought out plan. But considering that we killed two birds with one stone…”

“That’s awful, why would you want to kill a cute little birdie?” Fluttershy interrupts as she rises up from her hiding spot.

“Not literally,” Sonic comments as he smirks at the now trembling pegasus. “It’s a saying where I’m from, it means achieving two ends with a single effort.”

“Oh,”

“Anyway,” Sonic continues as he turns back to the Sun Princess. “We solved the issue with the missing combatants and helped with that damn sigma against your sister. It’s a win, win.”

“Still It,” Celestia begins.

“If ends up being an issue, then we’ll just come clean about it and say it was all just an act.” The former hedgehog states as the moon princess nods. “Besides, anyone tries to do something that will bring harm here; they’ll think that the elements aren’t as powerful as they really are. Bam, we now have an ace in the hole if we need it. Now we have three wins for the price of one.”

The sun princess presses her lips together and lets out a deep sigh through her muzzle. “Very well, we’ll try things your way. However, if this goes in a direction that brings harm my subjects or myself; I’ll ‘correct’ this personally.”

“It won’t, but if for some strange reason it does.” Sonic says with a stern look. “We’ll take a step back and let you handle it.” Luna nods in agreement and turns to the others. “That is, if what you all just heard, doesn’t leave this room.” The former hedgehog turns to the ebony alicorn. “Unless someone was listening in from the other side.”

The night Princes shakes her head. “Neigh, once the doors were repaired. The noise canceling enchantment was activated.”

“If that’s the case,” Twilight begins. “Why were we able to hear you on the other side of them?”

“They weren’t shut all the way.” Luna replies flatly as a frown appears on her face.

“I see,”

“So, we good?” Sonic begins as he turns to the others. “I know it’s a bit to ask, but…”

“Ah won’t tell a soul.” Applejack exclaims with a nod. “We trust ya have yer reasons. Isn’t that Right girls?”

The others nod in agreement.

“My lips are sealed!” Pinkie pie proclaims as she literally zips her lips closed.

“Where it any pony else, I’d be inclined to agree to such a request.” Rarity states as she tilts the brim of her hat back. “But for you, I shall not let this information slip.”

“No problem, big guy. I got it covered.” Rainbow Dash boasts as she tilts her head up proudly. “Any pony spills the beans. They’ll have to deal with me.” The mare smashes her hooves together to emphasize her claim.

Twilight frowns at the mare’s comment. “You do realize that we’re the only ones here.” The unicorn states as she gestures to the rooms occupants. “So, you be ‘settling things’ with one of us.”

“I-I hope it doesn’t c-come to that.” Fluttershy squeaks as she peaks up from behind a small chair. “Having to turn on one another, because of something like that.” The mare shivers. “Y-you have my word, I-I won’t tell any pony.”

The lavender mare rolls her eyes. “No pony is going to hurt anypony. Dash is just being…well Dash.”

“HEY!” The costumed pegasus shouts in protest.

“But that still doesn’t mean I’ll tell anypony.” The mare then turns to the (usually) lilac feline. “What about you Blaze?”

“What about me?” The Sol Guardian asks as if offended by the question.

“Are you going to say anything?”

“Why would I?” Blaze as she did before. “I trust that Sonic has the best intentions for this. Why would I even think of putting that in jeopardy, because of a loose tongue?”

Twilight stares at the feline, at a total loss for words. She attempts to comment, but is cut off by the moon princess.

“Excellent, “Luna cheerfully proclaims as she returns to her normal self. “Now then, on to more pressing matters.” The alicorn states as she turns to her elder sister and then to the lavender unicorn. “Our attempts at returning Sir Sonic to his normal form have not been successful. Perhaps if you two would assist us in the matter, then perhaps we can rectify this.”

“Before you begin, I have a question.” A certain party pony asks as she raises her right hoof.

“Go ahead,” The sun princess says with a kind smile.

“What happened to Spiky that make him go all big and fuzzy? Was that part of the plan or…”

“No, it wasn’t.” Sonic states as he turns to the pink party mare. “I was supposed to use the emeralds and go into my super form and ‘vanquish the evil princess.’ However,” The former hedgehog trails off and turns to the now navy blue alicorn. “Something went wrong and I turned into,” Sonic gestures to himself. “This. What happened anyway?”

Luna shakes her head and lets out a sigh. “We are not curtain, perhaps it was the flash of light that stirred up an old memory. Or maybe it was the sheer amount of power you were giving off when using those emeralds.” The princess lets out a sigh. “We fear that we’ll never know for certain.”

“Well as the saying goes, ‘sh*t happens’.” Sonic proclaims as he turns to others and then back to Luna. “There’s no use crying over split milk, so let’s just move on and get over it.”

“Agreed,” The sun princess says with a firm nod. “While I don’t agree with how you worded the first one. The message is still clear.” Celestia then turns to her faithful student. “Now Twilight, will you assist us in returning Sonic to his normal form?”

“Yes, of course!” The unicorn replies with a cheerful smile. “I’ll help anyway I can.”

Excellent, now then I need the rest of you to stand back.” Celestia begins as she turns to the other element bearers. “I’ll do what I can to contain this, but…”

“Say no more, I got it covered.” Pinkie Pie states as she now dons a full suit of armor.

“How did you…never mind. Everypony step back: except for you Twilight.”

The others comply and take several large steps back; some even hiding behind/ under some of the ornate furniture.

“This is going to be so awesome!” Rainbow Dash states as she peeks from behind a large armoire.

Rarity rolls her eyes at the Pegasus’s claim. “You really are easily impressed aren’t you?”

“Well, not everypony has that there fancy magic of yours.” Applejack states as she ducks behind a couch. “So ya can lose that hoty-toyt attitude of yours.”

“Yeah, stop being a meanie!” Pinkie adds as she emerges from a steal flower pot.

“I-I just hope they’ll be ok.” Fluttershy mutters from behind her hiding spot.

“They’ll be fine, Miss Fluttershy.” Blaze says calmly as she remains out in the open and crosses her arms.

~***~

“Tell us, young Twilight. How are ye skill of magic reversal?” Luna demands as she turns to the lavender mare. “Are ye skilled enough in it, to pull of this task?”

The unicorn opens her mouth to reply, but is cut off by the sun princess. “I wouldn’t have asked for her to assists if I wasn’t confident in her abilities.”

Twilight blushes at the princess’s praise and bobs her head in place. “Thanks princess.” She then turns to the ebony alicorn. “Are you sure this will work? Given into account Sonic’s ‘natural’ abilities.”

Luna taps her chin in thought. “We are certain, however…”

“It’s worth a try.” Sonic proclaims as he steps between the two. “So how do you want to do this? Am I supposed to stand in the middle or…”

“Step in an open area of the room and we shall surround you.” Celestia replies as she turns to the others. “We must all focus our magic onto one area.”

“Exactly,” Luna begins as she looks at her sister, Twilight, and then to Sonic. “Is everypony ready?”

“Yes of Course,” Celesta states with a nod.

“As ready as I’ll ever be.” Twilight mutters as she shifts uncomfortably in her spot.

“I’m ready over here, let her rip.” Sonic adds with a toothy grin.

The three mare’s exchange nods and circle around the werehog. Luna taking a spot on Sonic’s left, With Twilight taking a position on his right, and Celestia taking her spot front and center. As the three mares’ get into position, the tree shares a nod and begins channeling magic into their horns.

“Now this may feel funny for a second,” Celestia begins.

“But it shall not, be any different from what you’ve experienced before.” Luna adds with a smile.

“J-just relax and it will be over shortly….hopefully.”

Sonic gives the three a thumbs up followed by a nod. “Do it.”

An ornate symbol composed of gold magic appears under the former hedgehog. And then by a ring of blue magic symbols that surrounds it. Followed by another set of small ones; made of bright pink magic.

“Alright, on my signal, we synchronize the spell and then channel our magic into it.” The other two acknowledge the order by a firm nod and then close there eyes. “Now on the count of three; one…two…three!”

The middle symbol begins shining with a bright light as the set of blue rings begins to turn in a clockwise fashion. While the outer pink ring, starts turning counter clockwise. Each rings spins at a different speed; Getting brighter as they spill. Luna’s spins at a relatively slow pace, gaining strength as it goes. While Twilight’s spins so fast, that it almost becomes a blur the faster it goes.

Then as if finding the secret combination to a safe, each ring abruptly stops and begins casting a bright light. The symbol in the middle remains as bright as before, but seems to be traveling to other rings; giving each a sort of ‘out glow.

Twilight clenches her teeth as she continues to channel her magic into the ring. While Luna seems to be struggling to keep her ‘regal stance’ as her mane and tail start to shift out of enchantment. Celestia meanwhile, seems to be the least affected. Maintaining her stance and composer; only shifting slightly as she channels more magic into the ring.

As the sun princess’s magic begins to consume the others, Sonic looks at the three mare’s. Each of which have their eyes shut, as they continue to channel their magic. Two of which appear to be struggling with the task; evident by their pained expressions. The former hedgehog attempts to get Luan’s attention, but stops short. As the three mares eyes snap open; each completely white out with magic.

“Now!” Celestia commands; resulting in everything going white.

Rainbow Dash shields her eyes with a wing as everything starts going bright. “You guys might want to hold onto something. Things are about to get intense.”

A blinding light consumes everything in its path; taking everything with it, with an all powerful white light.

~***~

Chairs, tables, and almost anything that isn’t nailed down begin to lift from the floor as the three continue to pour magic into the spell. The remaining members of the mane 6 and Blaze are forced from their hiding spots and attempt to take shelter in another; which ends up being a rather large, over sized chest. That seems to be thoroughly glued to the floor; by some form of magic or other conventional means.

“Whoa Nelly, those three are about to bring the whole place down!” Applejack shouts over the rumble of the future crashing into each other. “Ah didn’t see myself going in a magic explosion!”

Pinky makes an attempt to pear into the blinding light, but then removes a pair of sunglasses from her mane and looks trough them. “Wowe, this is getting intense. Spiky is just taking this whole thing in stride. Whatever Luna hit him with must have been tough.”

“What are you talking about?” Rarity shouts over the commotion. “How can the combined power of…”

“She’s right!” Blaze shouts, cutting the mare off. “Whatever they’re doing, isn’t working.”

“This is bad, this is very bad.” Fluttershy mutters to herself as she takes the fetal position. “If those three can’t…”

“Oh for crying out loud, stop being a bunch of drama queens!” Rainbow Dash shouts over the others. “The big guy can take it; he’ll be his usual cool blue self in no time.”

“I won’t be so sure about that.” Blaze mutters out; too quiet for anyone to hear her.

Next Chapter Preview:

Sonic: "Well that's something?"

Pinkie: "Oh, he's gonna do it, he's gonna do it!"

Celestia: "We are not amused."

Luna: We don't know, sister. IT's rather entertaining from where standing."

Backlash