David stood on the balcony, just outside of Luna’s bedroom. His eyes were fixed on Luna as he watched her soar into the night sky. He let out a quiet yawn as he stood there admiring her, waiting for her to lower the moon.

He could hardly believe dawn was upon them already. It seemed like the two had just dozed off. Still, a smile bloomed on David’s face. He knew once Luna completed her task that the two of them could watch Celestia raise the sun.

A sudden motion to his right caught David’s attention. Turning his head, he saw Celestia fly in and land gracefully. She stepped over to him, her gilded hooves almost silent as she approached.

“Good morning, Celestia.” David greeted the elder princess with a warm smile, before turning his gaze back to his beloved.

Celestia chuckled softly as she joined him in watching her sister. “I’m glad to see you finally remembered that you don’t need to be formal, at least when no one else is around.”

He nodded. “Yep. Sorry if I seem distracted.” David chuckled.

The princess shook her head. “Nonsense. I know you’re keeping your eyes on my sister.” Celestia sighed. “Luna is very lucky to have you.” She snickered, placing a hoof over her mouth. “Though, I can’t help but feel I’ve told you that before.”

“You did. But, I’m glad you feel that way. I know I’ve said this before, but I love being with Luna.”

“You did. I trust you came out not only to see her set the moon, but to see me raise the sun as well?” Celestia asked, a distinct hopefulness in her voice.

David laughed. “I did. What better way to start the day then by watching the sunrise? Especially, when I can share it with Luna.” He turned to Celestia and smiled. “Not to mention, you create some of the most beautiful sunrises I have ever seen.”

Celestia tried not to blush. “Oh, they can’t be that lovely.”

He shook his head. “No need to be modest. You have a real gift.” David turned back to Luna. “As does your sister. Funny, she puts so much passion into her work.”

Celestia nodded in agreement. “She certainly does. And since you two returned, I dare say her work has been even more stunning than usual.” Celestia giggled gleefully. “I think you’ve stirred her creativity.”

David looked over at Celestia again. “You really think so?”

Celestia moved her head affirmatively. “Of course. Even after Luna’s return, there were many nights that she just seemed to be going through the motions. It always made my heart feel heavy.”

David could sense her sorrow, as it was clearly present in her words. He moved closer to Celestia and placed a sympathetic hand on her shoulder. The smile returned to her face as Celestia patted his arm. “I’m okay, David.”

He nodded. “I was just checking. Oh, thank you by the way.”

“For what?”

“You raised the moon while Luna and I were stuck in Ponyville. I just want you to know we’re both thankful for that.” David smiled again.

Celestia chuckled. “Oh, it was nothing.” She sighed heavily. “I’m just still so relieved you two are all right.”

He chuckled, resting his hands on the balcony railing. “You and me both.” David shook his head. “I still can hardly believe how crazy things were last night.”

“You certainly did a commendable job.” She joined David’s gaze, looking up just as Luna finished lowering the moon.

David’s face lit up. There was a lovely burst of light that faintly flickered on the horizon just as the moon slipped out of sight. “Wow. How does she do that?”

Celestia chuckled. “Maybe you should ask her. Oh, look at me chattering on. If you’ll excuse me, David, I’d best raise the sun.”

He nodded. “Of course. Good talking with you, Celestia.”

She spread her wings and turned her head. “Same to you. I enjoy our chats, even brief ones such as this.” With her last words spoken, Celestia took to the sky and prepared to perform her daily task.

The joyous expression grew on David’s face as he saw the sisters meet in the still mostly darkened sky. They shared a tender hug, before Luna made her way back to him. She landed on the balcony and walked up to David, bumping affectionately against him.

David turned and embraced her close. “Welcome back, Luna.”

Luna shared his hug and sighed contently. “Thank you, David. Did you see me?”

He nodded, staring into her gleaming eyes. “I did. You were spectacular. And that last burst of moonlight you added.” David rested his head beside hers. “It was perfect.”

Luna giggled, smiling at him. “Glad you liked it.”

“Yeah.” He placed his arm around her and pulled her close. “Now, let’s enjoy the sunrise.”

“Mm-hmm,” she muttered, resting her head on his shoulder. Luna sighed as she leaned against him.

David smiled and nuzzled her briefly; then he turned his eyes back to the sky.

Luna joined his gaze, as the sky was set ablaze with a hue of red and orange, announcing the sun’s glorious arrival and the birth of a brand new day. One the two lovers hoped would be full of hope and promise.

David rubbed his cheek along Luna’s silky mane as the golden sun crested the horizon and augmented the fiery sky adding oranges and yellows to the sky’s majestic canvas.

“Wow…” David gasped in awe. “You and Celestia are really talented, Luna.”

She held up her hoof and gave him a distinct look. David smiled as he clutched her shoed hoof. “You know?” Luna sighed, then she continued, “I think we do such wonderful work, because we have you and so many others that appreciate what we do.”

“Yeah, I can tell the other ponies really care about you two – their princesses.”

The couple stood there basking in the early light of morning. Celestia sailed past them and waved as she flew by. They waved back, before David enjoyed an invigorating stretch. “Well, why don’t we head back to your room?”

“Okay.” Luna smiled as they moved away from the side of the balcony. “Uh, you wouldn’t want to cuddle for a little? There’s still plenty of time before breakfast.”

David chuckled, placing his hand on her back. “Of course. And since there is so much time, why don’t we wash up. Say, by enjoying a shower together in your bathroom?”

Luna’s eyes shined. “I’d love to.”

They remained close as they turned and entered her room, adrift in their emotional high.

* * * * * *

Having finished washing each other, Luna was just leaning against David’s chest, resting her head along his bosom. The warm water continued cascading against them, and even though her mane was soaked, David stood there with Luna, stroking her hair.

“Luna, are you okay?” He continued to caress her mane.

She rubbed her wet cheek against his chest. “Mmm, yes, I’m all right.” She cast out a troubled sigh. “I just hope nothing bad will come of all of this.”

“You mean the dream…and your sister’s premonition?” David moved his arms around Luna and cradled her affectionately.

“Yes. It just seems like peace is something impossible to hope for at this point. Before my banishment there were so many hardships to endure.” Luna leaned a little harder against David. “And since my return…still there have been so many troubling times for Equestria.”

David kissed the side of her head and continued rocking her in his arms. “I wish I could say everything will be all right. But, I’d be lying. Still, as long as we face these trials together.” He trailed off.

Luna nuzzled him again. “I know what you’re trying to say, David. Thank you.”

He smiled, resting his head along her crown, minding her horn. “Anytime, Luna, anytime. Come on, let’s head out and dry off.”

“Then, we can cuddle for a little?” Luna gave him a longing look.

Even though they’d spent most of the night cuddling, David didn’t mind the thought of more. “I already said I wanted to, Luna…there’s still plenty of time till breakfast.” David turned off the shower and slid back the curtain.

After drying off, the two returned to Luna’s room. David dressed, then walked over and joined Luna in her bed. She drew him closer in both her hooves and the glow of her magic. They lay together and Luna just nuzzled her cheek to his. “I know we’ve spent the night together and quite a bit of time lately…but, after the attack in Ponyville.”

David reached over and caressed her silky swirling mane. “I know, Luna. It was a very hectic day.” He kissed her cheek. “I guess you aren’t looking forward to any time we’ll be apart.”

She turned her teal eyes on him and shook her head. “No. Who knows when the next attack will be?” The princess sighed and tightened her hooves around David.

He patted her foreleg gently. “I know. And I wish I didn’t have to say this. But, I’m going to head back to Ponyville after breakfast.”

Luna’s eyes widened. “You are?”

David resumed caressing Luna’s mane in the hopes of quelling her anxiety. “Yes. I want to see Clang and ask him about this sword and see if he has any idea why it might glow. Besides, I’d like to see how the others are doing.”

Luna nuzzled him again and sighed lovingly. “Are you planning to go alone? Last time you went to Ponyville alone…”

David chuckled as he wrapped his arms around her. “That’s the other reason I’m going. I want to see about getting some more training with Blade. It’s only a matter of time when the enemy will make another move. I have to improve. I don’t want to be a liability to you, Luna. And I don’t want to let anyone down…not like I did, back then.”

Luna’s eyes widened. “What do you mean? You haven’t let any of us down during either of the two attacks…here in Canterlot the other day or the one in Ponyville yesterday. Unless…” Luna gasped. “Are you talking about a different event?”

“Huh?” David looked at her. “Never mind. It’s not important. What is import is that I do everything I can to be of help.”

“All, all right, David. If you’re sure.” Luna turned so she could look him in the eye. She ran a hoof through his black hair and gazed deep into his brown eyes.

David’s face softened as he nearly lost himself in Luna’s eyes. He caressed her mane again. “Luna. We’ll get through this…somehow.”

She nodded. “You’re right. Should we head down to breakfast?”

He shook his head. “Mmm, not yet. Let’s just enjoy this moment…for a little while longer.” David nuzzled her cheek and gave her a loving squeeze.

“Good, I was hoping you wanted to stay…just a little longer.” Luna giggled as she continued to cuddle with him.

* * * * * *

Following breakfast, David was making his way down one of the many corridors of Canterlot Castle. Despite the fact that he hadn’t been in Equestria too long, David was slowly getting familiar with the castle’s layout.

The human was nearing the main hall just before he turned down one last adjoining hallway. As he started down the crimson carpet, which covered most of the marble tile, he saw a familiar face. Only, it wasn’t an overly welcoming one.

David nearly froze as he saw Prince Blueblood walking his way. At first he considered turning around. But then, as he thought of Luna, he changed his mind. David was also tired of running, and refused to repeat the mistakes he made on Earth.

The unicorn halted his steps as he saw the human mere feet from him. “Oh.”

David wasn’t sure what to do. It was possible that the prince was still angry. Then, he got an idea. “Ah, Prince Blueblood, right?”

“Yes. And you’re the human, David.” Blueblood sighed. “My cousin hasn’t let me forget, since our encounter the other night.”

“Yeah, about that.” David placed a nervous hand behind his head. “Look, I’d like to apologize. I am an outsider in your world. I should have been more respectful.”

The prince sighed again and shook his head. “No, the princesses may invite whomever they wish to the royal dinner table. It was me…I was the one out of line. You were an esteemed guest…and I, I acted out.”

David took a few cautious steps towards him. “Then, maybe we just got off…as you ponies say, ‘On the wrong hoof.’ ”

“Yeah. One thing’s for sure I have not forgotten the scolding Princess Cadence gave me after you left.” Prince Blueblood walked up to David and lowered his head. “I’d like to apologize for my rude behavior.”

“You’re a prince. You shouldn’t bow before a lowly commoner like me. But, I accept your apology.” David held out his hand.

Blueblood looked at the human’s outstretched arm and opened hand. “Ah, shake?”

David nodded. “Yes, a way to make the apology official.”

Blueblood accepted David’s hand and presented his hoof. The two shook and nodded. “And while we’re airing things out.” David began. “I’d also like to apologize. I think this was just a big misunderstanding.”

The prince nodded. “Partially. And it goes back to my upbringing. Canterlot nobles live…by a very strict code of conduct.”

David looked Blueblood in his arctic blue eyes. “I’m sure. I was so caught up with Luna, I just wasn’t paying the rest of the castle or its occupants any attention.”

“Then I accept your apology as well.” The prince actually smiled.

David almost felt the urge to run, but the look in Blueblood’s eyes was genuine. “Thank you, prince. Oh, right, I’m being rude again.” David bowed to Blueblood. “If you’ll excuse me, your highness. I’d best be on my way.”

“Of course.” Then as David walked past, Blueblood spied the elegant sword hanging from his belt. “Uh, where did you get that amazing sword?”

“Huh?” David turned and pointed to the weapon’s hilt. “You mean the sword I got in Ponyville?”

Blueblood nodded excitedly. “Yes. Since my fencing days and coordinating work with the Royal Guard, I’ve always had a fondness for swords…oh, who am I kidding, even as a colt I found them amazing.”

David blinked. Blueblood was suddenly acting very different. “Are you okay, your highness?”

“Huh? Oh fine. And call me ‘Blue.’ Wow, I didn’t know you have a fondness for swords.”

David wasn’t completely convinced, but he enjoyed this side of the prince infinitely better. He smiled as he slowly unsheathed the sword. “Oh yeah. Since I was little, I’ve loved swords. I have a modest collection back on Earth.”

“Earth? Is that where humans come from?” Blueblood looked at him with a gleeful smile.

“That’s right.”

“Wow, that’s impressive…and so is that sword. So, you got that in Ponyville?”

“Blue…why are you acting like this?” David gave him the most stymied of looks.

The prince looked around, when he confirmed that there still wasn’t anypony else around, he grinned. “I’ll let you in on a little secret.”

“Oh?” David raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah. I hate having to present myself like a noble. It’s no fun. It’s boring…ugh and having to sell that I’ve got a major ego.” He sat on his flank and rubbed his forehooves on both sides of his head. “It’s such a pain.”

David lowered the sword and gave Blueblood a dubious look. “Wait, are you saying that encounter the other night…wasn’t handled the way you really would have liked to handle it?” He blinked.

Blueblood rose to his hooves and sighed again. “Yes. Like I said, the nobles have a very stern edict to follow. But, the other night…that was all forced. I would have enjoyed meeting you, but, there were way too many nobles around.”

“Well now.” David looked at the prince. “Seems I really misjudged you then. But wait, why did you hide Cadence’s tiara?”

“Oh, right. That goes back to when we were younger. I do that, you know, to keep up appearances.” He waved a hoof and rolled his eyes. “Oh, but as soon as I saw that sword.” He pointed a hoof at the human’s weapon. “I thought maybe I could be myself for a moment.”

David chuckled. “You remind me of Luna in this regard. She often likes to be more causal when she and I are alone…oh, I probably shouldn’t have said that.” He facepalmed.

Blueblood shook his head. “Not to worry. Your secret is safe with me. Oh, but I guess I should let you get back to…uh, where were you heading?”

“Oh.” David chuckled; he had almost forgot himself. “To Ponyville, actually. I want to see Anvil Clang, the blacksmith. I have some questions to ask him about this sword.” David held the weapon up. “It saved my life during the attack yesterday.”

“Oh, right. You were part of the attack on Canterlot. And you’re telling me you were in Ponyville as well…when everything went down last night?”

David nodded as he returned his sword to its sheath. “That’s right. By all accounts I should be dead…twice.”

Blueblood placed a hoof to his chin. “Hmm. Interesting. In all of my studies, I’ve heard of only a few cases where something like this has happened.”

“Yes well, I hope Clang may know something.” David looked to Blueblood and smiled. “Well, I’ll see you later. I’m glad to know you aren’t an enemy or someone I’ll have to avoid anymore. And your secret is safe with me.” The human walked past the stallion and made for the main corridor.

“Wait.” Blueblood called after him. “Would you mind if I joined you?”

David stopped and looked back. “Seriously?”

“Yes. I haven’t been to Ponyville in a while and it might help with my image. Besides, what if there’s another attack?”

“And you could help?”

“Why yes. I am a unicorn if you didn’t notice. And I have my hidden talents.” He grinned.

“Well, okay. If nothing else we can really bury the hatchet on the other night this way. And, while I really love Luna…I don’t really have any friend friends here in Equestria.”

Blueblood nodded. “Well, maybe we can work on that too. Oh, and with your help, maybe I can break free of those nobles and not have to act like such a snob anymore.”

The two started walking down the main hall. “But, if you’re unhappy…you’re highness.” Two guards went walking past. “Why not speak with your aunt…uh, Celestia about things?”

He held his nose up and closed his eyes. “And who are you, a mere commoner to offer me advice?”

David whispered. “They’re gone.”

“Phew.” Blueblood wiped a bead of sweat off his forehead. “Now, to answer your question, for real. I would, but the princess is always so busy, and after all of these attacks.” The prince gave David a solemn look. “I doubt she has time to worry about that.” Then he perked up. “Besides, maybe it’s time I took charge of my life.”

“You might be right. Oh, how do you usually travel to Ponyville?” David looked his way, now that they were outside the castle gates.

“Oh, well. The train should suffice. Come on, David. My face alone will get us very nice seats. I’ll just say you’re accompanying me…ah, by order of the princess.”

“Sounds real enough. Okay, let’s go.” David shared a chuckle with Blueblood as the two made their way to the train station. He wasn’t sure if the prince was totally sincere, but if this day could end with them as friends, he was all for it.

* * * * * * *

David ran a hand through his short black hair and took in a deep breath. He and Prince Blueblood had arrived in Ponyville and were making their way to Clang’s Forge. The town was alive with its usual bustle as ponies went about their business.

Blueblood smiled as he slicked back a stray lock of his pale amber mane. “There, didn’t I tell you we’d get good seats on the train?”

David chuckled as the two turned onto an empty street. “Yeah. But the conductor really seemed worried about keeping you happy.”

Blueblood laughed. “Yes, I know. Fabricating an image can really precede you. No pony wishes to anger Prince Blueblood.” He chuckled some more as they continued along.

“So that’s why he kept asking if we needed anything?” David snickered. “You know. It’s kind of fun knowing the real you from this you the rest of the world knows.”

“It does have its advantages.” Then the prince sighed. “Of course, with such an arrogant persona, there are plenty of ponies that flat out despise me.”

“Yes, well, maybe that won’t be the case in the future.” David offered Blueblood a smile and patted his shoulder supportively. “Now, cheer up. Because, there’s the forge.” The human pointed his index finger to the familiar site of Clang’s Forge.

Blueblood placed a hoof to his chin as he scrutinized the building. “Hmmm, a very charming motif. I’ve heard of this forge. But, I never usually go to any such places. Most of the time I just stay in Canterlot or go on diplomatic assignments for my aunt. Not the most fun.” He cast out another sigh.

“Don’t worry, Blue. We’ll have some fun while we’re here…and most of all, get some information about this sword.” David gripped the hilt as they made their way toward the shop. Turning to the prince, David asked, “By the way, why ‘Blue’ and not ‘Blueblood?’ I mean it is your name.”

“Some days the name is like poison. At least a nickname lessens the blow. But enough on that, let’s check out this shop.” An invigorated look refreshed Blueblood’s face as he and David entered the shop.

The bell above the door jingled as they took a quick look around. David saw all the various items sprawl out before him, just like the first time he found the shop. “Wow, it’s just as amazing as last time.”

“Amazing isn’t the word. Oh if my old fencing partners could see this place. Wow!” Blueblood grinned as he checked out all of the carefully crafted weapons.

“Ah, I take it you enjoy the work of me and my family?”

David looked over at the counter and smiled as he recognized the familiar rasp of Clang’s voice. “Ah, Clang, there you are.”

“David, it’s good to see you again. I was delighted to hear from Blade that you survived the attack yesterday.” Clang fluffed his short beard.

“It was a close one. It took some help from Luna and Rainbow Dash, not to mention this sword.” David walked over to the counter.

“Ah, you know the value of getting help from others. Speaking of the princess, how is she? Didn’t she wish to come along?” Clang looked around.

“No, she had duties that wouldn’t allow her to leave Canterlot. But, I didn’t come alone.” David turned to reveal the prince.

Blueblood stood there and grinned a little nervously. Anvil Clang looked upon the prince and bowed respectfully from behind the counter. “Your highness, welcome to my humble shop.”

The prince smiled as he stood beside David. “Thank you, noble smith.”

“What may I do for you on this fine day?” Clang gave him a focused look from his pale purple eyes.

“Not so much me.” Blueblood turned to David. “But rather, for David. I believe he has a few questions for you.”

Clang looked the human’s way. “Ah, I see. What’s on your mind?”

David unsheathed his sword and set it respectfully on the counter. “My question is about this sword you gave me. What all do you know about it’s construction? Were it not for this blade, I fear I wouldn’t have survived yesterday.” He gave Clang a deeply concerned look.

“A sword like any good weapon will also protect its wielder as long as they use it with care. I don’t see this sword being any different than the others my family and I have crafted.” Clang looked the sword over, then looked back to David.

“It’s a fine weapon to say the very least. But when I was hanging by a thread yesterday, the sword seemed to fill me with new life and healed the worst of my injuries. Thanks to it, I could fight again. And last night, Luna and I both saw the sapphire in the pommel of the hilt glow. Is that normal for a sword you forge here?” David tuned the blade so the sapphire was facing Clang.

“Well I’ll be.” Clang’s raspy voice sounded genuinely surprised. “Glowed you say?” David nodded, while Blueblood just watched with due fascination. “Let me see something here.” Clang pulled the weapon closely and examined the blade carefully. “And to think I just thought it was one of Anvil Bang’s simple weapons.”

David wore a puzzled look. “Who is Anvil Bang?”

Clang turned to a group of pictures adorning the wall behind the counter. He pointed to a single portrait. “Him. This is a picture of my grandfather – Anvil Bang. Like my father Steel Blade, me, my son Onyx Anvil and my grandson Tempered Blade, he used to forge all manner of weapons, most of which were during the troubled times. In fact, he used to apprentice under a great blacksmith, one fabled to have been a mystic smith.”

“A mystic smith?” Blueblood placed an intrigued hoof to his chin. Then he looked at David.

David looked at him and then over at Clang. “What’s a mystic smith?”

Clang smiled as he pointed to the sword’s hilt. “A blacksmith that forges enchanted weapons. And it seems quite possible, however unlikely that this sword is a mystic weapon.”

David’s mouth hung open in awe. “For real? And…and you gave this priceless relic to…me?” Ha placed a baffled hand on his chest.

Clang chuckled at the human. “You seem to undervalue yourself. And given what this sword has done for you, I’m delighted to have gifted it to you.” The old stallion scratched his beard. “I never would have guessed.” Clang just chuckled. “Gramps was quite a stallion.”

David just blinked as he looked at the sword and then to Blueblood. The prince was silent and wore just as intrigued a look as David. The human turned to Clang and pushed the sword back to him. “Here. If this is so valuable, you should have it back.”

“To do what with it?” Clang gave him a solid stare as he pushed the sword back to David. “Fight a war…sell it for mere bits?” He shook his head. “I’m too old to be a soldier and have no need for excessive amounts of money. Besides, this weapon has already done its part to aid you…as far as I’m concerned it’s yours.”

David reached for the sword and held it proudly in his hand, staring down its shinny blade. “I will treasure this sword, Clang.” He turned to sheath it. It slid into the scabbard with a faint metallic scrape.

“Good.”

“So, is your grandson around?” David leaned on the counter.

Clang nodded. “He is. Right now I believe he’s working on some swords for the guards stationed here in town.” The stallion smiled. “I take it you want another sparring match with him?”

“Yeah, I want to get better. Who knows how long till…uh, well, there’s some creepy guy that Celestia was talking about last night.”

“A noble ambition. I’m sure Blade can spare some time.”

Prince Blueblood placed a hoof over his mouth and cleared his throat. “Ahem.”

“Blue, you okay?”

The prince nodded. “Of course, David. I was just going to say…well, Clang, if you have some wooden practice swords. I could show David a few pointers. I still fence regularly and always like to practice to keep my own skills sharp. Part of being Canterlot nobility.”

“Really?” David looked the prince over. “All right then…sure.”

Blueblood nodded, then looked to Clang. “So, practice swords?”

“Here. I keep a pair behind the counter. And there are more in the tool shed out back. If you need additional swords, Blade can show you where to find them.” Clang removed the wooden blades from under the counter and set them down.

“Thank you, sir.” Blueblood smiled as he snared them in the glow of his magic. “Ooh, perfectly weighted and balanced. I can see why David was so taken with your forge.” He grinned.

“You’re welcome, and thanks for your kind words. Be careful you two.”

“Don’t worry, we will.” David smiled as he and the prince stepped out the back door. “Come on, Blue. I’ll show you where Blade and I practiced before.”

The two departed, leaving Clang standing there fluffing his beard. “Hmm, such an intriguing lad.”

The bell above the shop door rang again. Clang’s ears twitched as he heard the sounds of solid thunderous steps approach. He glanced up and smiled at his latest customer. “Ah, are you here for the new barbells for your gym?”

The customer nodded firmly. “That’s right!” He spoke in a loud confident voice.

* * * * * *

David crossed wooden swords with Prince Blueblood. Their weapons struck together and held for a moment. Then, for the seventh time, David was disarmed. “Darn it!” The human shouted as his weapon flew behind him and smacked the ground with a thud.

Prince Blueblood lowered his practice blade and gave David a curious look. “Hmm.”

David walked over and recovered his weapon. “At this rate I’m never going to gain any skill.” He looked over at the prince. “And how do you keep disarming me so easily? Those Dragon Knights didn’t disarm me this easily.” David scratched his cheek.

“I don’t know much about them, but from what I’ve read, they are more about force and brute strength. The techniques I’m employing are designed to use an opponent’s form and leverage against them.” Blueblood gave David a serious look. “That’s how I keep disarming you so easily.”

“Then, it’s like square one all over again.” David sighed and lowered his blade, leaving it all but drag on the ground as he walked over to Blueblood. “Any idea what I should do?”

“Not THIS!” A commanding voice called from the shop behind them.

Prince Blueblood looked up, an intrigued grin formed on his face. David turned around and did a bit of a double take, stepping back closer to the prince. “Whoa, who are you?” The human blinked. “You look like a…”

“Minotaur?”

David nodded. “Yeah.”

A strong laugh came from the individual. “That’s because Iron Will IS a Minotaur.” Iron Will walked over to the two of them. “So, you’re trying to learn how to better wield a sword…eh?” He placed a muscular hand to his chin. “Hmm.”

Blueblood nodded. “That’s right. And what brings someone like you to this forge?”

Iron Will turned his beady yellow eyes to Prince Blueblood and cleared his throat. “That’s easy. Iron Will is here to get barbells for his newest ambition…Iron Will’s Iron Dojo. It’s where the weak get sleek…and STRONG!” He flexed his biceps.

That’s when David’s face lit up. “Hey, wait a second. ‘Get strong!’ That’s it!”

Iron Will blinked. “Excuse me?”

Prince Blueblood placed a hoof to his chin. “It could work.”

The Minotaur scratched behind his left horn. “If by work you mean come to Iron Will’s Iron Dojo, then you are RIGHT…uh, what is he?”

Blueblood looked over at David and then back to Iron Will. “This is David, he’s a human, from a world called Earth, I believe.”

“That’s right.” David walked closer to Iron Will.

“Hmm, a human.” Iron Will gave David a curios look. “But yeah, Iron Will watched you train and he thinks he knows the problem.”

“Yeah, I’m too weak. I need to get stronger.” David looked at both of them.

“That’s right. And my place can help you get stronger.” Iron Will crossed his arms.

Prince Blueblood smiled. “It may take some time, but if David can build his overall strength, we just may help him with his sword skills.”

“Well, what do you say, David? Are you brave enough to accept this CHALLENGE?” Iron Will gave him a stern stare.

David stood there for a moment. He thought about Luna, he thought about the other ponies, and considered the looming threat Celestia spoke of, not to mention his failure on Earth. A determined look formed on David’s face. “I know this won’t be easy, but let’s do it anyway.”

“Excellent choice!” Iron Will grinned.

“That’s the spirit, David. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy.” Blueblood looked to the sky. “I speak from experience.” Then he looked back at David. “So, let’s head over to Iron Will’s Iron Dojo. And hmm, David, are you aware than my Aunt Luna is celebrating her Birthday in about a week?”

David nodded. “Yes. Part of the reason I came back to Ponyville was to also look for a gift for her.”

The prince nodded and held up a hoof. “Then, let’s see how far we can get by the end of the week. What do you think, Iron Will?”

“Hmm. Yeah, we could see some results in as little as a week. But it will require some INTENSE training.” He looked at David, flashing him a toothy grin.

“I’m not afraid.”

Iron Will nodded and closed his eyes. “Good. That reminds Iron Will of one of his favorite slogans, ‘Don’t be scared, be prepared!’ ”

“Then, let’s get prepared.” David gripped the hilt of his practice sword. “I will get stronger!”

“That’s the spirit.” Blueblood patted David on the back.

“Then, come on you two. Follow Iron Will. The Iron Dojo awaits!” The Minotaur grabbed his barbells and led the others away from the forge and toward his mighty dojo – an unmistakably large red building, not far from Clang’s forge. David really had his work cut out for him now. But like Blueblood had said, he knew nothing worthwhile would be easy.

Author's Note

Now that I'm back and posting updates more regularly, this story will be able to get the ending it deserves. I know in many ways it's hardly a good story, but as one of my first here on FimFiction, it was and has been a great learning experience. And despite the horrible inconsistency in updates, I hope to finally turn things around as this story nears its conclusion. Thank you to those of you that have enjoyed this story. Your patience is greatly appreciated.