The Last Man Standing

Chapters

Arriving in Paradise
Royal Interest and a Revelation
Joining The Herd
First Date and First Spell
Reflection Plus One
The Three Fillies of The Apocalypse
No Business Like. . . .
A Night of Love, A Day of Wrath
You Call Down the Thunder. . . . . .
Now Reap The Whirlwind.
Do you believe in magic?

Arriving in Paradise

It was a beautiful night in Equestria and almost everypony in Ponyville was asleep. The sound of crickets and frogs combined with the warm evening breeze made it impossible to stay awake.

BANG!!!

(Until now anyway.)

The sound of a massive explosion and a flash of red light rocked the houses of ponyville to their foundations. Windows shattered and walls cracked, and ponies woke up thinking the world had ended. As one might expect, after picking themselves up off the floor the ponies rushed outside to see what the hay was going on. It didn't take long to find the source of the disturbance. The Ponyville town square was in ruins, a massive crater about 10 meters wide and 5 meters deep had been gouged in the earth. A crowd swiftly gathered around the crater's edge, trying to see what lay at the bottom.

"Excuse us, pardon, can we get by?" the crowd parted and six ponies made there way to the edge. The group consisted of two pegisai, two unicorns, and two earth ponies. Everyone in Equestria knew these six ponies for their recent defeat of a thousand year old evil. They were: Twilight Sparkle a unicorn and student to Princess Celestia now the ponyville librarian. Rainbow Dash, a Pegasus and the self proclaimed "Fastest flyer in equestria". Applejack the earth pony, a resident of Sweet Apple Acres and member of one of Ponyvilles founding families. Rarity the talented fashionista unicorn and drama queen. Fluttershy a pegasus and caretaker of animals who was terrified of everything that was not an animal, and last but not least. Pinky Pie the party obsessed hyperactive earth pony who you were better off not trying to understand. Together the six were the bearers of a set of powerful artifacts, the Elements of Harmony.

So it was easy to understand why everypony was looking to them for answers. "What do ya reckon is down there Twi?" asked Applejack. But before Twilight could answer she was interrupted.

"Oooh, ooh, maybe it's a space alien, and it's here to devour our brains and take over the world! Wouldn't that be great? we could throw a 'Welcome to Equestria please don't eat my brain and takeover the world' party!"

Twilight sighed.

"Pinky if brain eating aliens ever came to ponyville, I doubt they would be interested in a party." Pinky's face fell.

"Awwww, but I was going to make a cake that looked like a brain." Pinky complained.

Twilight resisted the urge to roll her eye's, "Anyway to answer your question Applejack, I have no idea what could be down there. But we'll find out soon, the smoke is starting to clear.". Twilight was right, the smoke and dust were thinning, and as it did everypony gasped. At the bottom of the pit lay the strangest creature anypony had ever seen. It resembled a hairless monkey or ape, devoid of fur except for what looked to be it's mane which was black in color. The rest of it's body was covered by clothing; blue jeans and white tshirt save it's odd hooves. The forehooves were shorter and ended in five blunt "claws". The back hooves were longer and bent forward instead of back. They couldn't see the end's as they were covered by some kind of black hoofwear.

"Is it....dead?" Rainbow asked hesitantly.

"No, it's still breathing." Twilight replied.

"The poor thing, we have to help it." Fluttershy said in a sympathetic voice. Twilight nodded.

"Ok everypony, we'll take him to the library since it's closest. Rainbow, go to the library basement and get the bed down there ready for our guest, Spike is there and can help. Rarity, help me levitate him, but be careful, Fluttershy come with us, we may need your assistance if he wakes up. Everyone else find a doctor and a vet and bring them to the library.". As everypony went about there assignments, Twilight wondered what the Princess would say.

Adrian was surrounded by darkness, he knew he was dreaming but it was strangely real, and vivid. He saw three symbols appear in front of him, a sun, a moon, and a star. As adrian watched the three glowing symbols flew toward him in a triangle formation. When they reached him the sun and moon placed themselves on the backs of his hand's while the star placed itself on his forehead, he heard a strange voice speak to him.

"You are the first, to protect them, you must be the last.".

Adrian had no Idea what that could possibly mean, but it seemed important. He suddenly felt himself falling until....."THUD". Adrian woke to find he had fallen out of bed, "Uhhh, what time is it" he grumbled as he looked around the room. After shaking his head he looked again, after repeating this action three more times and confirming that he was awake, he asked the obvious question. "WHAT THE FUCK??!!!". Adrian jumped up from the floor of the unfamiliar room as if it was electrified. He was scared (who wouldn't be?), the room looked like a mix of root cellar, furnished basement, and mad scientist lab. "Where in the Nine Hells am I? and how did I get here?", Adrian asked aloud. Adrian often spoke to himself when he was nervous, and right now his voice was all that was keeping him sane. "Ok last thing I remember was falling asleep in my apartment, a flash of light, then nothing. Maybe I got knocked out, but how? a flash bang grenade? This doesn't look like a CIA tourter chamber, more like the lair of a rural Frankenstein.". As he looked more closely adrian was puzzled by the odd design of the room. The whole room was wood, but it looked like it was all one piece. The stairs for example, appeared to have been carved rather than built, and he could find no trace of any seams showing where one piece had been joined with another.

Soon Adrian was so absorbed in studying the room, that he forgot about everything else. "Hmmm, it's all one piece, but there's no tree on earth that would be big enough for that to be the case. There are no windows, maybe I'm underground? but that would imply......". Adrian didn't hear the door open, or notice that he was no longer alone, until he heard someone clear there throat. Adrian turned toward the sound expecting a human. Many people in adrian's position would have screamed and run away on seeing a small pastel horse with an oddly human face, but adrian was able to avoid that....."THUD".....by fainting instead.

Twilight had been preparing breakfast when she realized she had no idea what her strange new housemate would, or even could eat. So after preparing a strong sleep spell "Just in case", Twilight went to ask, hoping that he would be able to understand her language. As she approached the basement door Twilight thought she could hear movement below. Deciding to be cautious twilight slowly unlocked and opened the door. taking a steadying breath she picked her way silently down the stairs. Twilight was surprised to see her unusual guest with his back to her looking intently at the floor. As she watched, the odd creature studied the floor and walls for a short time then seemed to get lost in thought "I wonder what he's so interested in?". Twilight slowly walked toward the distracted creature and cleared her throat. The creature whirled around to face her, it's left eye started twitching, and then it fainted. Twilight managed to catch him with magic before he hit the ground then levitated him back on to the bed.

"Hey twilight?" called a voice, it was Twilights adopted younger brother and #1 assistant, Spike the dragon.

"Yes Spike?" Twilight called, "I'm in the basement.".

"Oh, well I have a letter from the Princesses here, should I bring it down?"

"That would be great Spike, I think I should keep an eye on our guest for awhile. Bring me the letter then I need you to round up the girls."

"Um, ok, but what about breakfast? I'm starving." Spike asked, not wanting to make the journey on an empty stomach.

"Look in the cupboard, I think there's a small bag of gems I was saving for you.". Twilight smiled as Spike, upon hearing the word "Gems". Raced down the stairs placed the letter on the bed, then raced back upstairs to the kitchen and out the door. "I hope Spike doesn't take to long, last time he spent an hour flirting with Rarity before heading back.". Twilight giggled as she thought about the incident. "Now let's see what the Princess has to say, I'm sure she can explain what this thing is.".

The letter read...

Dear Twilight

Luna and I have no idea what the creature you describe could be or where it is from. I ask that you keep the creature comfortable and try to communicate with it. If the creature proves hostile, simply apply a stasis spell until I can come to collect it. If you can, try to befriend him and learn from him, but do be careful my student.

Signed, Princess Celestia and Luna

"Wow this must be serious if both Princess's are involved." Twilight commented to herself. Twilight looked over at her unconscious charge, "You know, he's kinda cute when he's asleep, in a weird sort of way.".

"Thank you."

Twilight nearly jumped out of her skin when the "unconscious" creature spoke. As she watched it opened it's eyes and sat up facing her. "Word of advice miss." he said with a smirk, "never assume that a person whose eyes are closed is asleep.". Twilight opened and shut her mouth a few times before she was able to speak.

"Y-y-you were awake the whole time?" Twilight stuttered out.

"No I woke up about halfway through that letter you were reading. Do you always read out loud?". His tone was friendly and conversational as if none of this were strange.

"Um, well...no, but I sometimes do it without meaning to, sorry. Anyway now that you're awake introductions are in order, my name is Twilight Sparkle and-" twilight was interrupted by badly suppressed laugh. "Mind telling me what's so funny?" twilight deadpanned.

It took him a minute before he could reply, "I'm sorry for being so rude miss sparkle, but your name would be quite odd where I'm from. I'm sorry for laughing, I'm sure my name will sound just as odd to you. And now that I think about it, your name is rather pretty, it suits you."

Twilight was surprised by both his sincerity and "laughter aside" his educated attitude. "It's fine, as long as you tell me your name."

"Oh, of course how rude of me, my name is Adrian White, but feel free to call me Adrian." Adrian expected Twilight to laugh at his name, but she just said, "All right Adrian then you can call me Twilight, glad to make your acquaintance."

"Anyway Adrian if you don't mind I have some questions for you, in fact I have compiled a list of the things I want to ask you.". Adrian's eyes widened when said list appeared in a flash of purple light.

"What the fuck?! How did you do that?!" Adrian yelled in amazement.

"Do what? I just teleported the list with magic why?".

Adrian finally noticed the horn on twilight's forehead and did a double take. "Holy hell! Your a unicorn!??" he screamed in utter shock.

"Um, well yes why?" Twilight asked in a puzzled tone.

Adrian looked at her in awe, "In my world unicorns are nothing but a myth, a fairy tale. So is magic for that matter, tell me how does it work? Can anyone learn it? Is it able to create energy and matter or just change it's form? Can..". Adrian suddenly stopped with thoughtful expression, then snapped his fingers. "Hey I have an Idea, since we both have questions let's take turns. One of us asks a question then the other asks one after answering, that way we can each learn about each other, sound good?"

"That sounds perfect!" Twilight said enthusiastically, "but who goes first?".

"Well I consider myself a gentleman so.......lady's first.". An hour passed.......then two........then three, if anyone had listened in they would have sworn the two had been friends since they were children. The conversation flowed easily from subject to subject, science, history, magic, litterateur, philosophy, government, and on and on. They might have stayed that way forever, but eventually hunger forced them to pause. The two went upstairs only to find Spike and the others all asleep in the main library.

"Hey everypony wake up!" Twilight called out.

The girls and Spike groaned and rubbed sleep from there eye's, Rarity was the first to notice adrian.

"Hmmm, goodness was I-GOOD HEAVENS WHAT IS THAT??!!!". What happened next was one of those things that only becomes funny after ten years and three shots of tequila. As soon as Rarity screamed, Rainbow Dash jumped up, saw Adrian, and in typical Rainbow Dash fashion charged headlong into things. Thinking that a monster was attacking her friends Rainbow blasted into Adrian at top speed. As twilight watched in horror, Adrian was sent crashing through a window propelled by rainbow's tackle.

Adrian had no idea what had hit him other than it was insanely fast and unfriendly. Adrian found himself on his back gasping for breath looking up at a cyan colored pony with wings and a rainbow colored mane. She was shouting something at him but adrian was devoting all his attention to regaining his breath.

Rainbow was victorious, at least that's how she saw it, she had defeated the monster, slain the dragon, stood firm against......."RAINBOW WHAT ARE YOU DOING??!!".

Rainbow just had time to utter "huh" before a sparkling purple aura enveloped her and yanked her off her quarry.

Twilight was frantic as she rushed to Adrian's prone form, "Oh Celestia please be ok Adrian, oh please...". Twilight reached Adrian and released Dash who was a little annoyed.

"Uh did I miss something? wasn't he attacking you?" Rainbow asked confused.

Twilight whirled on her friend, "NO! I was trying to introduce him, Rainbow what were you THINKING!?".

Rainbow suddenly felt sick, "I-I just....I thought....oops". By this time Twilight and Rainbow had been joined by the rest of their friends.

"Oh Twilight I'm so sorry!" cried a mortified Rarity. "We were waiting for you and fell asleep, and then I woke up, and......I'm so sorry I screamed like that...". Rarity continued to babble her apologies, but at that moment all Twilight's attention was on adrian.

It is a testament to how close they had gotten in so short a time, that Twilight was near hysterical as she held Adrian's head in her hoofs. But despite getting the wind knocked out of him, Adrian was fine. "Uh Twilight? not that I'm not touched by your concern, but can you stop hugging me? I'd like to get up.".

Twilight looked down to see Adrian smiling up at her, and began to calm down. As she let go of him, Twilight felt a slight blush on her face at how panicked she had gotten over a pony she just met. Adrian was surprised at how little pain he felt, given the fact that he had been thrown through a glass window. He was further puzzled by the fact that despite his shredded shirt his body had not been cut by the shattered glass. He was prevented from further speculation by the winged cyan pony who attacked him sheepishly walking up to him.

"I...I'm sorry for attacking you I just thought..."

"That your friends were in danger and you wanted to protect them?" Adrian asked with a kind smile. Rainbow was surprised by the lack of even a hint of anger, and she was floored by his next statement. "Very admirable, I commend your courage, but next time don't take your eye off your opponent even if there down."

"Wait, what? I blasted you through a window and instead of being angry you're giving me pointers?" rainbow asked incredulous.

Adrian brushed an errant hair out of his eye before responding. "Why would I be mad? it was an honest mistake, and you had good cause to make it. Don't get me wrong, it didn't tickle, but I understand you were surprised and had to make a snap judgment.".

Rainbow smirked already deciding that whatever this guy was, he was definitely the coolest stallion she ever met. "Name's Rainbow Dash, glad your ok cause I like you already.".

An hour later, after introductions and a bite to eat, adrian was happily chatting with his odd new friends. Twilight had never met a "Human" as he called himself, but if they were all as charming as Adrian she definitely wanted to meet more. He seemed to possess a knack for knowing exactly what to say and how to say it. He was funny, polite, smart, and kind, even Spike, who had been a little standoffish at first, seemed to love him after he explained how honored he was to meet a real dragon. He talked with Rarity about clothes and her work and was a true gentelcolt. He spoke with Applejack about farming, crops, and plant's of all types impressing her with his knowledge about such things. Despite their awkward first introduction, rainbow and adrian had become fast friends, especially after he told her what a "Fighter Jet" was. Pinky laughed endlessly at his clever jokes and humorous stories.He was even able to get Fluttershy to open up after a few minutes, telling her about the animals of his world. Twilight was amazed that he was so calm about everything, given that he was apparently from an entirely different plane of existence.

"Adrian darling how is it that you got to equestria in the first place?" asked Rarity.

"I wish I knew Miss Rarity, but I have no idea." he answered honestly.

"Ya mean yall are stuck here?" AJ asked in surprise.

"Yes, but after meeting you girls and Spike I can't say I mind. I want to learn all about this world, this is a wonderful opportunity to study a non-human culture, and I don't want to waste it." Adrian said happily.

"B-but what about you're family and friends? they must be worried sick about you." Fluttershy asked.

"I doubt anyone will even know I'm gone for at least a few days. I will miss my family and friends but I think this world might have something that I have been searching for."

"Really what?" Rainbow asked.

"Sorry, but I can't tell you until I know for certain that it's here." Adrian explained.

"Ooh ooh, I love guessing games! is it a cat? a map? or maybe a cookie?" Pinky asked.

"No it's not anything like that, it's not a physical object, but your leader's will be able to tell me if it's here. If it is then I may stay here for some time, if your people will allow it, that's all I'll say."

By this point the group had been speaking for several hours and everypony was exhausted, so they decided to call it a night. As his new friends bid him goodbye Adrian smiled feeling more at peace than he ever had in his life. "This place, it feels so....right, like I belong here. I hope the Princesses are everything Twilight says, if they are....". Adrian's thoughts were interrupted by Twilight.

"Adrian, I received a letter from the Princesses earlier, and tomorrow they will be coming to take you to canterlot. Don't worry they just want to get to know you themselves, I'm sure they'll love you.". Twilight was surprised that she wasn't freaking out more about the Princesses meeting Adrian. But after talking with, and getting to know him, she was certain that he could make friends with anyone.

"Thank you for saying that Twilight, and for being so kind to me. I am glad we met, you are truly a wonderful per- sorry pony. When I get back to Ponyville I hope we can get to know each other more.".

Hearing this Twilight's face started to turn red, and a number of odd thought's concerning his possible meaning swirled in her head. After saying goodnight and going to her room Twilight let out a longing sigh, and allowed a goofy smile to cross her face. It was the same look Spike got when he saw Rarity.

Author's Note

Sorry if it's not "New York Times Bestseller" quality but I did what I could, and can you really ask for more than that?

Royal Interest and a Revelation

Adrian was dreaming, the number of dreams Adrian had in a year could be counted on one hand, so it was never hard for him to tell. But he had never had a dream like this: he was in a house on top of a hill, a vast moor spread in all directions. Adrian could see skeletal trees and shrubs surrounded by either black water or green peat moss and here and there crumbling tombstone's protruded from the water. The house was a gothic style mansion straight out of a horror movie, the view was provided through a window in a library filled with ancient books. He knew what the house looked like because the whole setup was exactly how he envisioned the setting for "The Hound" by H.P Lovecraft, a short story he was fond of. A roaring fire illuminated the room's only other occupant, a pony. Adrian smirked "You know princess Luna I haven't even spoken to you yet and I already like you.".

"How did thou know who we are?" Luna asked, deciding not to use the royal Canterlot voice since they were alone.

"Well aside from the crown and you being an, 'Alicorn' was it? You have the grace of a dancer and the beauty of the night sky and were meeting in a dream that I'm guessing you pulled out of my head, am I close?"

Luna was nicely put off balance by the fact that no pony had ever been so relaxed in her presence, let alone brave enough to give her such a direct (if over-dramatic and slightly corny), complement. Luna felt a sensation she hadn't felt in over a thousand years, "Am I blushing? and why do I suddenly feel nervous? You're a princess Luna get it together and do your job!". Luna's attempt to regain her composure was utterly destroyed with Adrian's next comment.

"You know you're name is really pretty, it makes me think of the full moon in winter I love looking at those.". Luna had been complimented before, but never with such informality, though he was definitely being sincere, it was such a wonderful feeling to have somepony speak to her like an ordinary mare, she suddenly felt like a shy schoolfilly trying to talk to her secret crush.

"Y-you think I'm b-beautiful?" she asked dropping the royal "we" out of a sudden case of nerves.

"Yes." Adrian answered, no deception or hidden meaning just an honest straight answer.

Luna felt like her face was going to burst into flames, "Why am I reacting like this? He isn't even from the same universe or even the same species but. . .". Ever since Luna returned from her banishment she had been ostracized by everypony but her sister, when she walked into a room everypony ran or coward in fear. Even those who addressed her in the royal court did so with hesitation, and often they left court the instant they saw her saying that the matter needed to be handled by Celestia. Luna had tried to show that they had nothing to be afraid of but every attempt had met with dismal failure. This creature however was not at all frightened of her, and obviously didn't care about her station. Luna had been prepared for adrian to be like everypony else who saw her and try to run. Instead he had greeted her with a smile and if she didn't know better Luna would swear he was flirting with her, she had no idea how she should respond.

"I-I j-just wanted t-to meet you I-I need to return to my duties I-uh.......goodbye." luna vanished returning to her physical body. The purpose of Luna's trip into Adrian's dream's was to get a sense of his character in order to determine if he might be a threat. Unfortunately Luna encountered a problem, she had tried to enter his mind but was unable to find a way past his mental defenses. Normally dreamwalking into a mind was like diving into a calm pool of water, but with Adrian it was akin to trying to swim in a whirlpool. Adrian's mind was so erratic and unstable Luna was amazed he wasn't stark raving mad. Emotion and logic, good and evil, chaos and order, all vied for dominance in an endless war of thought's and ideas. The most Luna had been able to get was the image of the creepy house and the swamp around it, she had determined that it was a place of comfort. How anypony could be relaxed in a setting like that was beyond Luna's understanding, Luna considered forcing her way into Adrian's mind but doing so could end up making them both insane. After a little thought Luna decided to use the image she had seen to create a lucid dream where she could interview Adrian. Luna had not expected him to understand her plan, let alone know who she was, and she definitely had not been prepared for his odd "though flattering" greeting.

"Well sister, how did it go?" Celestia asked sensing her siblings return to her body, but was surprised when Luna started blushing with a nonplussed look on her face. "Sister? are you alright?" Luna mumbled something in response, "What? I can't hear you lulu.". Luna took a breath before replying.

"He called me beautiful" Luna whispered.

Adrian woke the next morning half expecting to find himself back in his apartment. Rising out of bed he stretched and rubbed sleep from his eye's, "Well it look's like I really am stuck here." he said to himself. He had to admit that this was all a little scary, but his fascination with this world of talking pony's and magic was far greater than his fear. All his life Adrian had been different from those around him, he had always been a big picture type so he often could see connections others couldn't. This combined with a complex moral code and rigid adherence to logic and strong opinions and emotions, made him seem contradictory or even crazy to other people. He was very blunt about what he thought and almost never sugar coated anything, he had spent his entire life in the pursuit of knowledge and had a gift for "seeing the truth" as his friends had called it. Unfortunately this meant that the comforting illusions that allow people to ignore the evils of the world and function, never worked for him.

During his first talk with twilight he had learned that pony civilization had never had a true war. There was conflict and even violence, but unlike humans, pony's seemed to lack the capacity for true cruelty and bloodlust. Adrian was also amazed by the fact that the pony's seemed to have near complete control of their environment, thanks to the three pony types (Pegasus, Unicorn, and Earth Pony) working together. Simply put, the pony's had created in less than a thousand years what humans had been unable to in over a hundred thousand, a true utopia. Adrian decided that he should refrain from telling twilight too much about how humans generally treated each other on a grand scale, deciding that he didn't want to scare her. Adrian's thoughts were interrupted by Twilight calling him upstairs.

"Adrian get up time for breakfast!".

He replied that he'd be up shortly, As Adrian walked up the stairs he could hear the voices of Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Pinky, and Spike, and he smiled at the thought of enjoying their company further. He opened the door silently and walked toward the kitchen following the sound and smell of pony's eating breakfast. The girls and Spike were all sitting around a table talking, but upon noticing him stopped, greeting him warmly. Rainbow zipped up from her seat and practically dragged him onto the seat between her and rarity, where spike had thoughtfully set a place for him.

"So Adrian" rainbow began immediately, "You promised to tell me more about flying in your world, so how do those jet things you mentioned work?."

Rarity interrupted him before he could answer.

"And you promised to tell me about the fashions where you're from, you told me that humans always wear clothes, so they must have amazing designs.".

"Now why couldn't I be this popular with girls back home?" Adrian wondered.

"Ok, ok, but can I eat first? I'm starving." he asked laughing.

"Ooo, ooo, try these, I made them especially for you" squealed Pinky pie, shoving what looked like a small mountain of cupcakes into Adrians face.

"Uh, thanks Pinky but there's no way I can eat all of these, so why don't we divide them up between us?"

"Oh you don't need to do that silly, I made enough for everpony!" Pinky vanished and a split second later there were seven more equally large piles of cupcakes on the table with Pinky somehow reappearing in her seat so fast that Adrian would have sworn she teleported.

"How did-"

Before Adrian could finish the question rainbow placed her hoof in front of his mouth.

"Don't ask, trust me"

Adrian nodded deciding that he was too hungry to care, and bit into one of the cupcakes. His eyes widened, the cake part was warm and moist not too sweet, and not too bland, the frosting was sweet and creamy with a hint of vanilla, even the sprinkles were amazing adding a slight taste of cinnamon.

"Soooo, how are they?" Pinky asked looking at Adrian expectantly.

"There amazing! I've eaten pastries from gourmet restaurants that taste like cardboard in comparison."

Pinky's smile could only have been wider if she unhinged her jaw.

"If you think that's good just wait till we visit Sugarcube Corner, they make the best sweets in Equestria." she stated proudly.

Adrian would have replied, but was too busy devouring his second cupcake. As he ate he wondered how such a ditsy pony could be so talented a baker. Eating also gave Adrian a chance to reflect on his midnight encounter with the Princess, "I hope she didn't leave so abruptly because of how my complement's sounded. I did mean what I said but I should probably apologize for making her uncomfortable.". As he finished his third cupcake Adrian noticed that Twilight wasn't eating. The look Twilight was giving him seemed odd, she looked nervous and whenever Adrian looked at her she quickly shifted her gaze to the half-eaten cupcake hovering in front of her. Deciding to ask Twilight about it later Adrian began his promised explanations to Rainbow and Rarity on human flight and fashion respectively.

Two hours later after a wonderful meal and helping the girls clean up, Adrian was in the main part of the library with Twilight asking her more questions. The other girls had wanted to stay, but as it was a weekday they had to attend to chores, jobs, etc, but promised to be back in time to say goodbye. Rarity also said she had a surprise for Adrian before he left for Canterlot, although the fact that she asked to take some measurements of his body made it easy to tell what the surprise would be. Celestia had sent word that she and Luna would be arriving in Ponyville at about 4:00pm, so Adrian wanted to learn more about them and the city of Canterlot (although he had to suppress a snigger when he heard the capital's name). Twilight was very helpful telling him all about her time as the student of Princess Celestia, for good measure Twilight related the story of Luna and Nightmare Moon.

"She was trapped on the moon for how long?"

"A thousand years." Twilight repeated.

Adrian was horrified at the thought of anyone being confined to a desolate airless rock for so long, death seemed like a far more pleasant option, yet Twilight seemed unconcerned.

"How could Celestia do that to her only sister?! That's monstrous! How is it that Luna didn't go insane from sensory deprivation?"

"Well for one she was asleep the whole time, so it probably didn't seem that long to her. Second Celestia told me that the spell she used was meant to separate Luna from Nightmare Moon before sealing Nightmare away, but something went wrong and instead it banished them both. Also for the record, Celestia told me she cried herself to sleep for over 100 years after it happened. She was miserable, but couldn't show it because of her station as Princess."

"I'm sorry Twilight I jumped to conclusions, in my world you can't trust anyone in a position of power so I assumed the worst."

Twilight looked at Adrian in surprise.

"Surely that's not true, how can a society function if they can't trust their leaders?"

Adrian let out a mirthless laugh.

"How? Badly, thats how."

"but what about all the things you told me your species has created? How could you manage such feat's if your society can't function properly?"

Adrian was about to answer but thought better of it.

"Twilight I think it's best if I don't answer that."

"Why?"

"Because it's a very long and complicated story not to mention depressing, I will tell you when I get back, I promise."

Twilight wanted to protest, until she saw how sad and tired her friend looked, his eye's held a look of sorrow and anger that convinced her to drop the subject. For the next few moments neither of the two spoke until twilight thought of a question that had been bothering her.

"Hey Adrian I'm curious what's your family like?"

"Well they're smart, kind, and very thoughtful, my mother is a psychologist with her own practice and she loves gardening. My father is a writer of books about the outdoors and loves biking. I have a brother who I prefer not to mention, and loving grandparent's." The description was rather short because Adrian did not want to focus on the things he lost by coming here. He did a good job of hiding it, but he did miss his family so he made an effort to think about them as little as possible

"Sooo, do you have a marefriend?" the words came out of Twilight's mouth before she could stop herself.

"A wha-oh you mean a girlfriend, no but I wish I did." Adrian replied apparently oblivious to the implications of Twilight's question.

Twilight felt her heart jump, she was dying to ask him out, after all they both shared interests in book's, magic, science, food, and more, they even liked the same colors. The only problem was she didn't know if Adrian would be open to a relationship with a different species. Equestria was a very tolerant place, the only thing two beings needed in order to date was mutual love and to be of age, so dating another species was rare but hardly taboo. Still Adrian was from a very different world and he might find the idea less than appealing, twilight decided to try hinting at her interest and seeing how Adrian reacted. Unfortunately this was one subject she knew next to nothing about, she needed to research the subject. "But how can I research something like that? Wait of course Rarity, she's great at things like this, I can ask her to tutor me.". Twilight wanted to go see Rarity right away but spike had gone to run some errands for her and she couldn't leave Adrian by himself. "I guess I can ask her after Adrian leaves then I can practice while he's in Canterlot.".

"Uh, Twilight? you ok?"

Adrian's voice brought Twilight out of her internal planning session and she blushed realizing that she had completely forgotten where she was.

"Oh I'm sorry Adrian, I was just trying to remember if I put quills on the list of things I wanted spike to get." Even Twilight was surprised that she had come up with an excuse so fast, for a moment she was afraid Adrian didn't buy it.

Adrian smiled sympathetically.

"That's alright I space out like that all the time."

For the rest of the day Adrian and Twilight talked about Equestrian culture and terminology although at one point they discussed "Cutie Marks", and Adrian nearly died laughing. Adrian had wanted to ask twilight about the mark on her flank's before, but he had trouble thinking of a tactful way of doing it. Twilight frankly didn't see what was so funny but decided to let it go without comment.

Adrian stopped laughing when it occurred to him that offending a girl who could turn him into a salamander might not be the smartest thing to do. After apologizing to Twilight he decided to make a suggestion.

"You know if those marks tell what a pony's talent is then why not call them 'Talent Marks'? I mean, 'Cutie Mark' just sounds so. . . girly, no offence."

Twilight's expression turned thoughtful.

"You know that does sound better you should suggest it to the Princess, but without the, falling down laughing, part."

"Sorry Twilight, I guess I still need to get used to thing's being different when it comes to wording and names"

All too soon it was 3:00pm by that time the rest of the girls had arrived, spike was already there having returned around lunch time. Rarity levitated a box into Adrian's hands as soon as she entered the library.

"Surprise darling, I hope they fit I wanted to make more but I had an order that needed filling, but I promise I'll have more when you get back."

Inside was a set of human clothes, a white dress shirt with a red vest along with black dress pants a cloth belt and even white socks and boxers. It was a testament to Rarity skill that she had managed to do a perfect job at something totally new in so little time.

"Wow rarity these are amazing, give me a minute to change."

As Adrian headed to the bathroom the girls sat down and made small talk until they heard the bathroom door open again. A second later Adrian walked into view.

"So how do I look?"

Rarity put a hoof to her chin critiquing her work.

"You look smashing darling, but I feel like it's missing something."

Adrian nodded.

"I think you're right, it need's a certain je ne sais quoi, I think a black jacket might work what do you think?"

Rarity looked at Adrian with a surprised expression as Adrian had gotten the same idea she had.

"That's perfect darling, it seems like you have a fashion designer's eye for detail."

Adrian gave an elegant bow.

"I am but a humble student in the shadow of your mastery my lady."

Rarity and the others laughed.

"You should go into acting Adrian, you're a natural."

"Thanks Twilight but I try to avoid the spotlight, it makes me nervous."

Adrian paused for a moment as a thought occurred to him.

"Rarity I really love the clothes, but I have no way to pay you for your work. I know these are a gift and I am grateful, but I don't want you to give me more cloths if I can't pay for them." Rarity smiled.

"Darling you will find it difficult to find employment wearing rags, so you could think of it as me investing in a future customer. So with all due respect dear I am going to make you cloths for free and you are going to like it, or I will put you in a dress while you sleep.

Adrian couldn't tell if Rarity was being serious or not so he decided to err on the side of caution by responding with a simple "Yes mam". Rarity did have a point, he had nothing but his clothes at the moment, so he was in no position to refuse charity of any kind. Still Adrian vowed to do something to pay her back as soon as possible. Adrian had been taught that if someone does you a kindness you must repay them in some way to show your gratitude, no exceptions. He decided that while he was with the Princesses he would try to find what kind of work he might be able to do, maybe he could work in the library with Twilight. He had grown quite fond of the bookish pony she was so like him yet so different, when they were talking Adrian felt like a part of him he never knew he was missing had been returned. "I hope the princess's will let me stay, this place is already starting to feel like home" Adrian's internal dialogue was interrupted by a knock at the door.

"I'll get it" said Spike.

Hopping off Twilight's back where he had been perched he walked the short distance to the entrance throwing open the door. Adrian's back was to the door, so he was momentarily confused when the girls eye's widened slightly and then they suddenly bowed low. Adrian stood up turning to face the door, before him stood what could only have been the sun princess. She was as beautiful as a sunrise, her mane a kaleidoscope of colors that fluttered in an invisible breeze, her coat was pure white and around her neck was a jeweled torc made of gold. From her back sprouted a pair of stunning white wings and her violet eyes were almost hypnotic.She radiated wisdom and authority like a fire radiates heat, she was a good bit taller than Adrian and on her head sat a golden crown. Any doubt of her identity was banished by her cutie mark, a blazing sun. Adrian had to work to maintain a neutral expression, but he would not allow himself to be moved by a flashy entrance. For a good minute the sun goddess and the human stared into each others eyes, until Celestia smiled and made a polite bow.

"I Welcome you to Equestria Mr. White I am Princess Celestia I hope you are enjoying your stay."

Adrian carefully searched the princesses words for the faintest trace of insincerity or a hidden threat, he found none. Adrian gave a slight bow never taking his eye's off the princess for a second, suprised to find nothing but warmth in her expression, finally he smiled.

"You're student and her friends speak the world of you and your sister, I now see the praise was very much deserved, and please Princess call me Adrian."

Twilight let out a hidden sigh of relief, from her conversations with him, Twilight knew Adrian would never show respect to somepony unless he felt they deserved it. She had been more than a little scared that Adrian would anger the princess and she would never see him again, but it seemed the princess had met his expectations. Twilight ran forward to greet her mentor but stopped when Celestia started speaking again.

"You left quite an impression on my sister Luna, she has been eager to meet you in person, I have to say she was right, you are quite handsome."

There was a horrified cry of "sister!" apparently from out of the air on Celestia's right followed by luna appearing in the same spot with a mortified expression on her face.

"Hey Luna, glad to finally meet you face to face, well outside of a dream anyway."Adrian greeted warmly.

Luna had been about to say a few choice words to her dear sister, but the words died in her throat when she realized that her invisibility spell had been disrupted. Luna for the first time since she had come home found herself wishing she was back on the moon. Luna had a sudden case of nerves when she and her sister had arrived and decided she should "Observe the human from a concealed position". Celestia however wasn't going to let Luna hide from her social anxiety, and decided a little "Tough Love" might help her get past it.

As luna tried to regain some of her shattered dignity Adrian was admiring her appearance, as with many dreams Adrian had lost his memory of certain particulars. He knew Luna was beautiful, but despite that his memory of her exact appearance was fuzzy and indistinct, but now it all came flooding back. Her mane was like a cloud of black mist filled with twinkling motes of light and like her sisters it was moved by an ethereal wind. Her eyes were the blue of the sky after sunset but before the stars could be seen, a crown of solid darkness adorned her head and around her neck was a torc of the same material emblazoned with a pearlescent moon. Her wings were smaller than her sisters but no less grand and her dark blue coat along with her cutie mark of a crescent moon over a splotch of black made her seem mysterious and alluring. Adrian had to wonder how he could forget such an amazing figure without sustaining head trauma. Finally he stopped gawking long enough to reel in his emotions and speak to the night princess.

"I'm glad you came I wanted to get to know you better, we didn't have much chance to talk last night."

Luna's gaze immediately snapped to Adrian, trying to control her maelstrom of emotions she cleared her throat to greet him as a princess.

"WE ARE PLEASED TO SEE YOU AGAIN ADRIAN WHITE,FORGIVE OUR RUDENESS."

Adrian and everpony but Luna and Celestia was forced to cover their ears to avoid being struck deaf, now it was Celestias turn to be embarrassed. She had forgotten her sister's tendency to slip back into the customs of a thousand years ago, Celestia gave Luna a slight nudge and whispered in her ear while everypony was still recovering.

"Luna you are using a bit too much volume."

Luna wanted to crawl under the nearest rock and die of embarrassment, how could she have forgotten yet again? She was close to tears as she watched Adrian get to his feet, "Luna how could you be so stupid! The one time you find somepony who is willing to talk to you! Now he will run like all the others, and all because you are too stupid to remember a simple fact.". Lunas internal rant was interrupted by a completely unexpected comment from adrian.

"I guess I deserve that for embarrassing you last night, but next time could you just turn me into a beetle or something?"

Luna had no clue what Adrian was talking about.

"I do not understand when did you embarrass me last night?" She asked making certain to control her voice.

Now it was adrians turn to be confused.

"Uh isn't that why you left so abruptly last night?"

As Luna began trying to explain the misunderstanding, everypony struggled to avoid laughing, or almost everypony. Twilight had felt an increasing level of anger and sadness building since seeing the look Adrian gave Luna. Twilight had never been a pony who got angry easily but she was now feeling an intense anger toward the night princess. Twilight felt like somepony was ripping her heart out "I can't believe this! He only just met her and she is acting like she's known him as long as I have! She just shakes her flank at him and thinks she owns him!". Only one pony noticed the way Twilight was acting, Twilight had been Princess Celestia's student for many years, so she was well aware of how Twilight looked when she was angry but trying to hide it, and it wasn't hard to guess what the cause was. Celestia cursed herself for a fool that she didn't see this sooner, she knew that if nothing was done then her sister and her student would likely come to blows. Fortunately there was a way to stop that from happening, it was risky but she had no choice, clearing her throat Celestia asked Adrian to join her outside for a moment. She also asked Luna (who fortunately had not seen the look Twilight was giving her.) to go check to see that the mayor of Ponyville didn't have any matters to discuss.

"Adrian, I need to ask what do you think of Twilight Sparkle? Please be as honest as possible." Celestia asked as soon as they were out of earshot of anypony. Adrian thought it was a strange question but the answer was easy enough.

"Twilight is amazing she's smart, kind, gentle, polite, and generally wonderful."

Celestia nodded.

"And what about luna?"

Adrian smirked.

"Well I haven't known her for very long but she is really something."

Again Celestia nodded.

"Then you should know that they are both romantically interested in you, and Twilight thinks you have chosen Luna over her." Celestia hoped she was right about how Adrian would react, she was not disappointed. Adrian's expression went from shocked to grave and resolved.

"I think I better speak with Twilight, now."

Author's Note

Corny and melodramatic, but that's not always a bad thing if only because it's fun to laugh at.

Joining The Herd

As she watched Adrian walk out with Princess Celestia, Twilight Sparkle felt more angry and miserable than any other time in her life. What made it worse, was the fact that she really had no right to be. Twilight knew that Adrian wasn't her's and that she shouldn't feel angry at Princess Luna just because she was showing romantic interest in the same pony she was interested in.

"So why do I still feel like I'm having my heart ripped out?"

Twilight wanted to be happy that Princess Luna had found somepony who made her happy but she couldn't, it just hurt to much. Then again maybe Twilight was reading too much into this, it was possible that Adrian was just friends with Luna and she had misread things. Twilight couldn't even convince herself, even if Adrian saw Luna as just a friend it was clear Luna wanted more. Twilight didn't understand how she had gotten so attached to Adrian so fast, no that wasn't true, she knew exactly how. Twilight loved her friends, but Adrian was the first pony she ever met who she was able to have a true intellectual discussion with since coming to Ponyville. Her friend's were by no means stupid and in some areas were even smarter than her. But none of Twilight's other friend's were book smart, so to speak, but Adrian was able to understand almost everything she talked about. Even more important Adrian made Twilight think, he asked questions and said things that made her see things in new ways. The only other pony who had ever challenged her mind as much as Adrian did was Princess Celestia. Twilight thought back to a conversation they had about magic not so long ago. . .

"So what you're saying is that magic is actually the manipulation of a form of energy that is interwoven into the very fabric of your reality?" Adrian asked in awe.

"Yes." Twilight replied smiling, impressed he grasped the concept so quickly. "But it's also able to be used without any conscious effort, that's how pegasi fly and walk on clouds and where earth ponies get there strength." Twilight elaborated.

"It sounds like a large number of life forms in your world evolved ways to use this energy in some manner or another. Like a dragon's fire breath or the cocitrice petrifying gaze, right?" Adrian asked remembering Twilight's mentioning such creatures earlier.

"Yes! Exactly!" Twilight almost squealed, excited to finally have somepony who could extrapolate things with the ease of a scientist.

"So what do you call this energy?" Adrian asked.

"It's called, Mutable Harmonic Resonating Quantum Cosmic Energy, but we call it 'Mana' to save time." Twilight replied.

"So why are unicorns the only ones who can control mana consciously? Is it a matter of biology?" Adrian asked thinking that a unicorns horn might be some sort of specialty organ for the purpose of mana control.

Twilight had to consider that one. "Well it is partly that, but I think it may have more to do with the fact that unicorns have a way of generating mana themselves, though we aren't it's only source. All creatures in our world generate a little mana unicorns just seem to make more and we can boost the amount of mana we create with training and practise. But the strongest mana producers are Alicorns, in terms of power output if a unicorn was a furnace an Alicorn would be more like a megavolcano."

"That would make them akin to gods, wouldn't it?" Adrian asked with a slight bit of scepticism, though on reflection he decided that if this world had mages, why not god's?

"We don't worship them, but I guess you could call them that, although they don't see themselves that way." Twilight responded.

"Twilight you said that all life in your world generates mana, right? So what about me? And how will the ambient mana affect me over time? Assuming it affects me at all."

Twilight had not been able to answer those questions, but to her it was wonderful that she now had a whole new and unique line of inquiry to examine. Twilight had begun falling for Adrian when she realized he was a scholar more than anything, and that he valued knowledge just as much as she did. Adrian also had a sort of odd charm that made him an absolute joy to be around, and even though he was not a pony she found his unusual appearance very enticing for some reason. Twilight had thought it was just an innocent crush, but when Luna looked at and spoke to Adrian, Twilight realized just how much she wanted him.

Twilight was surprised when Adrian came back inside with an incredibly serious look on his face, and his voice was disturbingly calm when he spoke.

"Twilight can I speak to you for a moment alone?"

Twilight just nodded and followed Adrian down into the cellar where he had been staying, Twilight felt her anger flare when she saw Luna was waiting for them.

"What is she doing here?" Twilight asked in a much colder tone than she intended.

"I asked Celestia to send her here, because this concerns her to." Adrian replied smoothly, pretending not to notice Twilight's tone.

When they were all comfortable Adrian took a deep breath, hoping he could resolve this without getting teleported into the center of the planet.

"Ok, I am going to be blunt, Princess Celestia told me that the two of you like me in a 'More than friends' kinda way, is that true?"

Twilight and Luna were both too surprised to answer, after all, they hadn't told Celestia how they felt and never thought she would tell anypony without talking to them, so they simply nodded.

"Ok, well I won't lie I think you two are amazing, and having either of you as a gir- sorry marefriend would be wonderful. But I won't choose one of you over the other, I like both of you too much to break either of your heart's. All I can do is promise that I won't choose anypony else either, I'm sorry I know you probably want to-".

Adrian stopped mid sentence when he noticed Luna had an odd smile, not a devious smile just, odd.

"Uh, Luna, why are you smiling?" Adrian asked slightly concerned, after all he couldn't imagine that "No" was a word a princess slash god heard very often.

"Well, there is another option if Twilight is open to it." Luna giggled with a mischievous glint in her eye.

Twilight looked confused for a moment, then she facehoofed, and smiled.

"Of course, I completely forgot about that!"

Adrian was starting to get a little worried, he could think of a myriad of things they might be talking about and all of them were rather unpleasant.

"Oook, want to tell the clueless human what you two are talking about? FYI if it involves a guy named Solomon I am going to be very put out."

The two mares didn't know who Solomon was, but decided to explain the old Equestrian custom.

"Well. . ." Began Twilight, "you see, in the past Equestria has faced a recurring problem of unequal gender ratios."

Adrian was already getting an idea of where this was going, but he was certain he had to be wrong.

"And, how does this relate to our current dilemma?" He asked, confidant that his first guess was impossible.

Luna finished explaining, confirming Adrians first guess was right after all.

"Equestria has always had more mare's than stallions and sometimes it was so great a difference that there were ten mares for every one stallion. So a law was decreed that permitted a stallion to partner with more than one mare if the mares were willing, and forming what we call a Herd." She said joyously.

Adrian felt both excited and a little freaked out.

"Whoa, whoa, so, you two are going to what? share me."

When luna and Twilight smiled and nodded, Adrian felt distinctly lightheaded for a moment.

"And, you two are ok with this? I mean don't get me wrong, this is every man's dream, but can you two really manage to handle sharing a lover without killing each other?".

Twilight nodded.

"I have no problem with it, all I care about is that I can be with you, I was a little upset but that was before I remembered about the, Herd Act."

Adrian assumed that "The Herd Act" was the name of the law they were siteing, also he was quite certain that Twilight had been more than a little upset.

"Ok, girls I'll give it a shot."

Less than twenty feet from the most life altering discussion of Adrian's twenty two year life, Rarity, Pinkie, Rainbow, AJ, Fluttershy, and Spike were awkwardly trying to make small talk with Princess Celestia. She had come in right after Twi and Adrian left, while everypony in Equestria loved the Princess, it was still a little intimidating to be face to face with an immortal godlike entity and leader of the country. The girls and Spike had been silent so far, eventually Celestia decided to start, by inquiring about their strange new extradimensional friend.

"So girls, Spike; after getting to know him what do you think of Mr. White?"

The girls and Spike looked at one another, each worried about saying something that might accidentally paint Adrian in a negative light, until finally Rainbow spoke.

"He's awesome, he tells the coolest stories about how humans use technology to do all kinds of things because they don't have magic. He told me they can build these amazing machines called jets that they use to fly, and that they can go faster than sound and the pilot's need these special suits so they don't black out and. . ." Rainbow was interrupted by Applejack.

"He tol me tha humans use somthin called gee-net-ick engineering ta make plants do all kinds a crazy things, but he said there was some kinda problem with it caused by corporations, whatever they are. He knows an awful lot about plant's an how ya can use em for things like medicine."

Fluttershy was the next to speak.

"Adrian is so fascinating he knows all about animals, even I didn't know some of the things he does."

Rarity chimed in with.

"He is a true gentlecolt your highness, he has wonderful manners and could not be a more charming guest."

Spike also spoke up.

"Adrian is really cool, he knows all these amazing stories about dragons and zombies and demons and all kinds of things like that."

Finally Pinky pie who had been nodding in agreement while the others spoke decided to give her two cents worth.

"He loved the cupcakes I made him and he's so nice, plus he never tried to eat my brain even once."

The princess was slightly puzzled at Pinky's rather odd praise for Adrian but decided it was some kind of joke.

"It sounds like you all are becoming fast friends, I'm so glad to hear that."

Celestia may have been smiling outside, but inside she was very worried. She knew that Luna and Twilight were both levelheaded ponies but that didn't matter much when love was involved. Love had a way of turning even the most sensible pony into a completely irrational nut, and when two mares wanted the same stallion it could get very ugly. Still, ten minutes had gone by without any sign of fighting between Luna and Twilight, "so far so good" Celestia thought.

"I wonder why Adrian wanted to talk to Twilight alone." Rainbow Dash asked offhandedly.

Everypony in the room stared at Rainbow with a disbelieving expression.

"Yall are kidden right?" asked Applejack.

Rainbow scowled.

"Uh, if I knew why would I ask? besides they didn't tell you what the reason was either, I was here the whole time and Adrian never said a word to anypony but Twilight."

Applejack smiled.

"They didn't need ta say nuthin, haven't ya'll noticed how Twilight and Adrian look at eachother?"

"Or how luna was acting around Adrian?" Asked Rarity.

"Yeah Dash, even I figured it out." Spike said in a slightly condescending tone.

Rainbow glared at her friend's.

"Ok, fine let's hear you guys's theory."

Rarity sighed before replying.

"Dash darling, it's obvious that both Twilight and Luna are infatuated with Adrian."

"Infatu-wha?" Rainbow asked confused.

"Twi an Luna have a crush on Adrian." Applejack clarified.

It took a moment for dash to process that, before she responded.

"Seriously?"

As Dashes friends were explaining to her Adrian was digesting what his two newfound love interests had told him. First and foremost all members of a herd were equal, second if a mare wanted to join the herd then it had to be agreed to by all members of the herd. A herd could be any size but it was rare for one to have more than about five to six members, also only one male to a herd unless the original male was bisexual. Same sex herds were permitted but they were not very common. Homosexual relationships were in no way considered odd or bad, Adrian had asked because even if the answer didn't affect him personally, prejudice due to sexual orientation was among the things he detested most in the world. Finally Twilight and Luna agreed that since Adrian was going to be in Canterlot he should go on a date or two with Luna.

Adrian was amazed at how quickly Twilight had gotten over her jealousy, "It's incredible how psychologically different they are from humans, no wonder they never had a real war.". Adrian was constantly surprised by how easygoing ponies were when compared with humans. If a strange lifeform crashed down in the middle of a human town it would have been treated very differently. Adrian shuddered when he thought about what humans did to things they didn't understand. The more he learned about this world the more Adrian felt like he wanted to stay, here leaders were not corrupt, here big business was not in near absolute control. Equestrians were not instinctively driven to commit horrific acts in the name of greed, and they did not automatically hate things that were different. Adrian was awoken from his pondering by the sound of Luna's voice.

"Adrian? are you well?"

"Huh? oh sorry girls I spaced out for a moment, this is a lot to take in."

Twilight smiled.

"It's fine we were just saying that we should go up and let everypony know what's going on, they probably think Luna and I are going to start hurling spells at each other."

Adrian nodded giving a theatrical bow.

"Ladies first."

Back upstairs everypony froze as they heard the hoofsteps of Twilight and Luna ascending the basement stairs, everypony held their breath as the doorknob turned. Nopony spoke as Luna, Twilight and Adrian stood in front of there friends, till Adrian spoke.

"Ok first the good news, Luna, Twilight, and I have talked things over and we found a solution to the problem."

Everypony (Celestia included) breathed a sigh of relief.

"Which brings me to the better news, Luna and Twilight will be forming what I am told is called a 'herd' on a trial basis. Also I would like to point out to their family and friend's, that in the event that this news drives you to homicidal mania, this was not my idea."

Adrian was prepared for a lot of shouting, anger, and the possibility of Celestia incinerating him where he stood, so he was rather surprised at the response he got.

"Congradulations!"

"Way ta go girls!"

"Oh how wonderful!"

"Oh, that's so romantic!"

"Awsome!"

"Allright Adrian!"

Only one pony remained silent.

"Sister is something wrong?" Luna asked.

Princess Celestia had not said a word, and she wasn't smiling, getting to her hoofs the princess slowly advanced on Adrian never taking her eyes off him. Adrian locked eyes with the sun princess and despite being terrified he refused to show it in any way. Refusing to back down even when every cell in his body was screaming at him to run. Celestia stopped with her face inches from his, Adrian felt like an ant about to be squashed, if he had been watching this in a movie he would have called himself a suicidal moron. For a long time the goddess of the sun and the impudent mortal continued to glare at each other, until the corner of Celestia's mouth started twitching. Celestia managed to keep her face serious for about three more seconds before she broke down laughing.

"Hee, s-sorry I just- ha,ha, couldn't resist, HA,HA,HA, the look on your faces was hilarious, Lulu, Twilight you looked hee,hee, like you thought I was going to eat him, HA, HA priceless!"

Luna looked like she wanted to strangle her sibling.

"SSSIIISSTTERR!! I am going to KILL YOU!"

So saying Luna levitated a number of cushions off the floor, Celestia let out a small "Eeep" before running out the door, laughing as she doged her sisters hurled pillows with ease. Luna started chasing after her big sister continuing to hurl pillows and promises of vengeance, it was safe to say that this was a side of the princesses that no pony had seen before.

"Um, do you think we should do something?" asked spike.

"Yes." replied Adrian, "We should make some popcorn and get a camera.".

Author's Note

Be honest, do you know any siblings who don't tease each other like that on occasion? Also if you spent a thousand years away from your sibling wouldn't you want to enjoy being a sister/brother again?

First Date and First Spell

Adrian looked out over the crowd of ponies that had gathered in front of Canterlot Castle. Saying he was nervous would be like saying the ocean was damp, or that a light particle moved at an above average speed. The only thing that kept him from running back into the castle was an unbending will, and his trust in Celestia and Luna.

Celestia had explained the plan to Adrian over breakfast, she would give a short speech then Adrian would walk out from behind a nearby wall. He would say a few words to the crowd and answer some questions from reporters then Celestia would wrap up the ceremony, and that would be that. Adrian hoped that the speech he had in his head went over well, it could lead to disaster if he didn't get the words just right. But Adrian had always had a gift with words, his classmates and friends on earth said he would be a natural lawyer or politician (though he was not entirely certain that was a good thing). "Time to see if they were right". Adrian thought as Celestia began to address the crowd from a small podium.

"Citizens of Equestria, my sister and I have asked you here to address recent events in the town of Ponyville."

The crowd's eyes were glued to Celestia as she continued.

"No doubt some of you have heard the rumors of an alien having been found there a few nights ago."

Some ponies in the crowd nodded and others began whispering excitedly.

"Well I am hear to tell you that a visitor from another world did indeed come to Equestria."

A fair number of gasps were heard and the whispers intensified.

"I wish to assure you that this creature, known as a 'Human' means no harm and is not a threat, my sister and I have interviewed him and he has our complete trust."

The princess was immediately bombarded with questions, about everything from what does it eat?, to can it control minds?. Celestia waited for the clamor to die down before proceeding.

"I know you have questions, but I think it better if I let our visitor speak for himself."

Celestia turned to Adrian.

"Adrian would you please come here?"

Adrian took a deep breath, "time to put up, or shut up." he thought as he stepped into view.

There were gasps of wonder and murmurs of amazement as Adrian confidently strode out to take his place at the podium, despite his severe stage jitters.

"Thank you princess." Adrian acknowledged as he gazed at the crowd, who looked back at him with awed expressions.

"Greetings citizens allow me to introduce myself, my name is; Adrian Vincent White, and as the princess said I am a human also called a Homo Sapien. Now to clarify I am technically not an alien, I am an 'extradimensional being' I come from another universe altogether. I am certain you want to know what my people are like, and against my better judgment I am going to tell you."

Ponies including the princesses looked confused at Adrians words, but he ignored their looks and continued.

"Now I need to make certain you understand one thing, humans are capable of great acts of kindness and love on an individual level. However as a whole we are dangerous, we are killers, ignorant savage monsters that will murder each other over something as minor as skin color or sexual preference."

Ponies gasped in response to Adrian's explanation, but he kept talking.

"I think it's important that you realize that while humans can be good our society has always favored evil, I have always hated the way my species conducts itself. I am not the only human who feels as I do, but humans like me are not in the majority and my species is currently led by individuals who have no qualms about destroying others to get what they want. I can not say I am free of blame I am no saint and I am certainly not above using force when I feel it warranted. I can say that I have no desire to cause you or your world harm, in truth I wish to be more like you and to earn the right to be considered one of you."

Adrian paused to take a breath before proceeding.

"The reason I am telling you this is because all my life I have searched for a cause worth believing in, and in this world I have found one. You have shown me kindness even when you knew nothing about me, you have given me food shelter and friendship without a second thought. Your leaders are dedicated solely to ensuring the comfort and safety of their people and always act for the greater good of this world. Finally you have given me something I did not believed existed, a gift that I can never thank you enough for, you gave me hope. So now I will now make you a promise that I never believed I would make, because no leader or country in my world was worthy of it."

As the crowd listened to Adrian speak they felt the conviction and honesty in every syllable, these were the kind of words that had the power to inspire armies to win against impossible odds, the power to shake continents and move mountains, or even influence gods. As ponies watched Adrians eyes changed as they had the previous night. Glowing with the strength of his emotions they looked for all the world like two shining stars, as he made his unbreakable promise.

"I give you my absolute word, that I will protect and serve this land and it's leaders until my last breath and beyond, I will be whatever is most needed by this land's ponies. If you ask for a shield I will be a shield, If you ask for a sword I will be a sword, and if you need nothing more than somepony to listen then I will listen. This promise I give will never be broken by time, by pain, or even by death, and so I give you the thing no other has ever been worthy of, my absolute loyalty. I will not ask for your trust, only the opportunity to earn it and nothing more, will you grant me that chance?"

As Adrian finished there was only silence, then there was a defining mix of cheers, whistles, and stomping hooves mixed with a roar of assent. Adrian smiled as he bowed to the crowd, glad that he had managed to win them over despite his admission of his people's propensity for evil.

Two hours later Adrian finally managed to get away from the reporters and enthusiastic welcome's from the ponies of Canterlot. By the time he made it back into the castle he had been invited to an event, party, or charity by every noble in the city. He had eventualy ended up agreeing to every request just to get away, on the bright side he now had a great opportunity to work on Luna's image.

Luna was a little hesitant when Adrian asked her to be his date at a party he had been invited to that evening but he managed to persuade her. He had just entered his room and closed the door when somepony knocked, Adrian sighed as he opened the door again and saw a guard pony standing in the hall with a large white box on his back.

"Sorry to disturb you sir, but this package came for you while you were away."

Adrian was puzzled as he thanked the guard and took the package into his room, as he examined the box he saw an envelope taped to the top, tearing it open he read. . . .

Dear Adrian

Just thought you could use these, were all thinking of you, and Twilight sends her love,

Best wishes, Rarity

P.S if anypony in canterlot asks about your attire, be a dear and mention my name, won't you?

The box was filled with clothes, all neatly folded and ironed, there were a number of shirts, pants, socks, and boxers, as well as a black sportcoat, and, oddly, a black trenchcoat. Adrian put away all the clothes before crawling into bed for a nap.

It was getting towards evening when Adrian woke, after taking a quick shower he selected his outfit for his date. Deciding formal attire would be best Adrian selected a white dress shirt with black pants and the new sports coat."I want to make a good first impression after all" he thought to himself as he finished dressing. Walking down the hall toward Luna's room Adrian grabbed a white rose from a vase he passed. Snapping the stem a few inches from the flower he hid the rose behind his back and knocked on Luna's door.

"Who is it?"

"It's Adrian, just wanted to check if your ready."

Adrian had set his alarm for 6:15 and it was now 6:30 the party was at 7:30, Adrian took pride in always trying to arrive early to any appointment.

"Not quite yet I will be out in five minutes." Luna said her voice slightly muffled by the door.

"Take all the time you need Luna"

As Adrian waited he found himself considering the day's events, he felt a great sense of peace as he considered the oath he had made. It was a good feeling to finally have a purpose, after spending his life on earth devoid of one. Adrian had always been a loner with no job or direction, wanting to serve a greater purpose but never finding one he could embrace fully. Whenever Adrian thought he found a group or organization that would allow him to make a difference he inevitably found the flaws that made them ineffective. Non-profit was actually for profit, fighting for freedom never involved any fighting even when all other options were exhausted. Over time Adrian became increasingly disillusioned and angry, he knew the world was sick, and he knew how it could be fixed, but he had neither the power nor the resources to do what was needed. In the end Adrian gave up and he had lived only so he might see the day when the world finally burned to the ground because of human stupidity and greed. But now, now he had found a place that was everything human society should have been. What's more Adrian now had real power, power enough to make certain that this world would not make the same mistakes humanity did. "I will protect this world, no matter what." he promised himself.

Adrian was snapped out of his thoughts by the doorknob turning, straightening up he watched the door open to reveal his date. Adrian whistled as Luna stepped out into the hall, she had removed her crown and other royal attire and wore a jet black silk dress. Luna had touched up her appearance with just enough makeup to enhance her natural beauty, around her ankles she wore simple silver bands etched with gold vines, and from her neck hung a silver chain with a mother of pearl pendant shaped like a crescent moon.

"Wow, Luna you look amazing."

Luna blushed bright red at Adrians complement.

"Thanks, so do you."

Adrian smiled glad Luna approved of his appearance.

"Shall we head out?" Luna asked.

"Of course, but first close your eyes for a moment."

Luna arched an eyebrow, wondering what Adrian was planning, but deciding to trust him Luna closed her eyes, and felt Adrian place something in her mane.

"Ok follow me."

Adrian guided Luna into his room in front of the mirror.

"OK, you can look now."

Luna opened her eyes and saw the white rose Adrian had placed in her hair, and at that moment Luna felt like the luckiest mare in the world.

"Adrian, it's beautiful." she breathed out.

"Not half as beautiful as you are." Adrian replied without missing a beat.

Luna giggled uncontrollably.

"You are so corny."

Adrian smirked.

"I like to think it adds to my roguish charm."

Luna rolled her eyes as she smiled.

"Cmon mister roguish charm, we're going to be late."

For their first date Adrian had decided they should attend a party being thrown by somepony named Fancy Pants. Adrian had chosen this particular party simply because he seemed far less stuck up than anypony else. When Fancy Pants had invited him he had been very polite and had not tried to pressure him, Adrian respected that. Another reason was that when he asked Celestia who among the nobles was the least conceited, she had named Fancy Pants. The princess said he had always been accepting of anypony regardless of their social status although few in Canterlot seemed to notice this trait, Adrian decided this would be a perfect opportunity to boost Lunas popularity. Besides they could always leave if things didn't work out, Adrian's only goal that night was making certain that Luna had fun.

As Adrian and Luna left the setting sun made the buildings of Canterlot glow with a golden radiance while a gentle breeze spread the smell of lilacs across the city. Luna was guiding them since she knew the way, but Adrian kept himself locked at her side wanting to assure her she wasn't alone. When Adrian suggested the party, Luna had been worried about how everypony would act towards her. Adrian had assured her that he would not leave her side, and that they could leave anytime she wanted. Privately, Adrian also promised to make life very short and very painful for anypony that intentionally hurt Luna.

Adrian and Luna talked and joked as they walked to the party, each just enjoying the others company. Before they knew it the pair arrived at large but very tasteful mansion with every one of its windows lit and the sound of music, and talking easily audible from outside. Noticing Lunas nervous expression Adrian placed his hand on her shoulder.

"All you need to do is say the word and were gone."

Luna nodded.

"I know, just promise you'll stay close by."

Adrian smiled.

"I promise to stay by your side no matter what, and I never break a promise to someone I care about."

Luna felt more confidant hearing Adrians words, steeling herself she and Adrian walked up to the front door and knocked. The door was answered by a butler who looked like he had swallowed a Lemon. Upon seeing Adrian however the butler's eye's widened and he seemed to be debating whether or not to slam the door and run. Fortunately he was saved having to decide when a refined, cheerful voice rang out from inside.

"Ah Adrian, delighted you could make it, and is that princess Luna? Welcome your highness to my humble home."

Fancy Pants happily waved them in, as all the other guests stopped talking and stared in awe and a little fear at the two new guests.

"Thanks for the invitation Mr. Pants, I hope you don't mind me bringing a date." Adrian said smoothly.

Fancy Pants didn't even blink as he replied.

"Not at all dear boy, I'm honored to have you both here under my roof, come in and make yourselves at home."

As Adrian and Luna walked forward only Fancy Pants himself refrained from backing up slightly, instead he walked up to them shook Adrians hand and gave an elegant bow to Luna.

"I hope you two brought your appetites, we were just about to have dinner please follow me."

Adrian was beginning to like this pony, his enthusiastic welcome and good manners were quite in contrast to the other guests who seemed reluctant to get to near the human and alicorn.

"I say, what's the matter with all of you? They're not going to bite." Fancy Pants admonished when he noticed how the other guests were acting.

Fancy Pants words immediately caused the other guests to surge forward, nopony wanting to offend their host by hesitating. Adrian made certain to stay at Luna's side despite the other ponies crowding them both. Making a note to thank their host for his endorsement Adrian and Luna followed Fancy Pants through the crowd to the dining room.Luna and Adrian didn't get back to the castle until almost 3:00 in the morning, exhausted but happy the two ended up both crawling into Adrians bed and falling asleep together.

The next morning the two were found by Celestia whose face turned crimson with embarrassment until she noticed both Adrian and her sister were still fully clothed. "They must have had fun. Celestia thought smiling as she looked at the two sleeping lovers. Deciding to have some fun with the two, Celestia put on her most severe looking expression.

"LUNA! what is the meaning of this!?" Celestia yelled, struggling to hide her smile as Luna and Adrian woke up and upon seeing Celestia, fell out of bed. Luna recovered first, completely freaking out and trying to explain.

"Sister this isn't what it looks like!"

Celestia almost cracked seeing how mortified her sister looked, but managed to keep up the act.

"Oh? I think it's obvious what happened, you two should be ashamed! Adrian I thought I could trust you! How dare you take advantage of my baby sister!"

Now it was Adrians turn to freak out.

"I swear all we did was sleep together! No wait! I mean we shared a bed! I-I mean. . . ."

Finally Celestia couldn't take it anymore and burst out laughing, realizing that this had all been a prank Luna's eye twitched as she gathered mana for a spell. Roaring in rage Luna materialized hundreds of what appeared to be water balloons in mid air and began telekinetically hurling them at her sister who dodged into the hall.

"GET BACK HERE!" Luna screamed as she gave chase.

Adrian was about to go after them but after thinking about it for a moment he just shut the door and climbed back into bed.

"Sorry Celestia but you can get yourself out of this one." Adrian muttered as he fell back to sleep.

An hour later Adrian dragged himself out of bed undressed showered and re-dressed before heading to the kitchen. On the way Adrian saw evidence of Luna and Celestias passing. Overturned furniture as well as walls, ceilings, and floors soaked with water indicated the path the two princesses had taken. Adrian had to admit he was a little sorry he missed the no doubt epic battle, but all things considered he was glad to have gotten the extra sleep.

Passing the throne room Adrian saw it was in complete disarray, and in the center of everything stood captain Shining Armour who appeared to be in a state of mild shock. On sighting Adrian Shining snapped out of it and ran over to him.

"Adrian! Thank goodness, I need your help, Luna and Celestia are having some kind of fight and I have no idea how to handle the situation."

Adrian was half tempted to say that shining should just let things settle on their own, but he couldn't ignore the slight panic in the captain's eyes.

"Where are they?" Adrian asked in an exasperated tone.

Shining visibly relaxed as he told Adrian that they had last been seen in the west garden, Adrian nodded and gestured for Shining to lead the way. A short walk later Adrian and Shining Armour could hear the sound of Celestia's laughter and Luna's irate shouting. Walking into the garden Adrian had to duck as a water balloon nearly hit him square in the face. If he had not still been waking up Adrian would have found the scene before him extremely funny.

The garden was a warzone; sculptures had been knocked over, flower beds were trampled into oblivion, and both Celestia and Luna were hurling balloons at each other from behind a pair of hedge's. Adrian stepped forward and was about to call out to them but he stopped as an idea struck him. In a previous conversation with Twilight she had described to Adrian the basics of mana shaping and spellcasting. . . .

"The first thing you have to do is gather mana, this is done differently by every mage, I use mathematical equations in my head to summon the precise amount of mana I need for a spell. Some other methods use mental images or sequences of words recited in a mage's head, but the idea is to bring your power out in a form you can understand. Next you shape the mana by carefully changing the image or equation you used to summon the mana so it is formed into a mental image of the effect you want. For example; if I wanted to change an apple into an orange I would picture the equation I used to summon the mana turning into the apple I wanted to change. Then I would envision the apple turning into an orange while at the same time envisioning the length of time I wanted to pass before the spell wore off, understand?"

Adrian nodded.

"I think so, but how do I connect the mana to the images in my head? and how do I know it's working?"

Twilight beamed at Adrian, ecstatic that he asked such good questions.

"That is an excellent question Adrian, the way you connect the summoning images with your mana is a little hard to explain in words. The best way to explain it is that you need a summoning image that you can connect to an emotion or feeling corresponding to the effect you are trying to create. Like in the example I gave, the feeling I would want would have to feel similar to how a pony feels when one positive emotion transitions into another positive emotion. When mana is building in you it's a very unique feeling, I can't really explain it but trust me you know it when you feel it."

Adrian took a deep breath closing his eye's and blocking out the world around him, "ok, first I need an emotion that connects to walls somehow". After a moment's consideration Adrian focused on an image of the great wall of China and decided to try associating it with a feeling of invulnerability. After a moment of focusing on his mana summoning image and emotion Adrian felt a peculiar sensation, as if a sort of electric charge was building up within him, "Ok, next I need to shape the mana." Adrian envisioned the Great Wall becoming a vertical plane of shimmering force that would expand horizontally until it touched an object or living thing but would grow no higher than ten feet. Opening his eye's Adrian chose where the spell would manifest and willed the wall to appear.

Luna watched as her sister dodged another barrage of her aqueuse missiles. If she was honest with herself she wasn't really all that angry with her sister anymore, but she was definitely having fun. At some point in the hour and something long chase, Luna's anger had given way to enjoyment of the chase. Luna was determined that she wanted to hit her sister at least once before stopping, so when she noticed Adrian and Captain Shining Armor Luna decided to launch one final assault using a few dozen balloons at once. As Luna hurled her fusillade of balloons at Celestia she smiled triumphantly knowing that there was no way for her sister to avoid the attack. But Luna's expression turned to one of total confusion when her balloons exploded against a shimmering translucent barrier that had inexplicably formed between her and her sister. Luna was about to yell at her sister that she wasn't playing fair when she noticed through the barrier that Celestia looked just as confused as she was, "but if it wasn't one of us then....". Luna turned to stare bug eyed and slack jawed at Adrian who's eye's were once more shining brightly as he smirked at the two monarchs.

"Now that that's over who feels like breakfast?" he asked nonchalantly.

Reflection Plus One

Several weeks had passed since Adrian first arrived in Canterlot and things could not have been better. After breaking up the princesses water balloon fight with an unexpected display of magical talent Adrian had been working to improve his mastery of the mystic arts. In addition to training with Celestia Adrian had been spending large amounts of time with Luna. After the success of their first date Luna and Adrian had been going out on a regular basis. Adrian had also made certain to maintain contact with Twilight and his Ponyville friends via letters. Twilight was particularly excited by Adrian's developing magic. If Adrian wasn't training, writing or spending time with Luna he could be found in the Canterlot library studying Equestrian history, philosophy, science, geography, and every other subject that he felt could be useful.

Life in Canterlot was definitely pleasant but Adrian had started noticing Celestia acting oddly around him. He would catch her giving him strange looks when she thought he wasn't paying attention, and she often would find excuses to get close to him during training. Celestia would flick Adrian with her tail or gently rub against him, once she even lay her head on his shoulder while he was casting a spell and he heard her give what he swore sounded like a suppressed moan of enjoyment. Adrian also could swear that whenever she saw him with Luna Celestia looked almost depressed. Adrian tried to confront her about it but whenever he attempted to get answers Celestia found a way to dodge the conversation, often by saying she had to attend to some royal errand or another.

As happy as Adrian was in recent days he had begun to think about his his home back on earth. Now that Adrian had gotten used to his new home he found his mind wandering back to his old life. Previously all this had seemed like a dream or a vacation, now that the initial excitement had passed it was starting to sink in that he would likely never see earth again. Adrian didn't regret coming to Equestria, and he was far happier than he had been on earth. But even so he found himself wishing that he could at least have said goodbye to his family and friends. Adrian wondered if they thought he was dead or if they might still be trying to find him. Adrian felt a twinge of guilt as he considered how this was just starting to occur to him. "I hope everyone back home is doing alright, I wonder if much has changed?", Adrian sighed as he looked out at Ponyville from his bedroom window. In two day's Adrian would be returning there, he would have gone sooner but he had wanted to get a better handle on his magic before going back. Adrian had made great strides under Celestias tutelage, he had mastered mana summoning and shaping with ease and now could perform a wide variety of spells. Adrian had also begun to develop his own spells, though on one occasion he almost blew himself up.

Adrian's daydreaming was interrupted by somepony clearing their throat, "May I come in?" asked his visitor. Turning from the window Adrian beheld Celestia staring at him from the open door wearing a concerned expression.

"Oh Celestia of course, come in." he said distractedly.

"Adrian you haven't been yourself recently, you seem upset and distant lately. Is something wrong?".

Adrian considered the question for a moment before responding.

"I guess I'm a little homesick I do like it here, I mean, I have everything I ever wanted and then some. But I guess I never really considered what leaving earth ment till recently.". Celestia nodded in understanding as Adrian continued. "I mean I never really liked my people as a whole but I still had people who I liked on an individual level. And I always loved the planet earth itself, the plants, the animals, even the weather. I know I typically act like nothing's bothering me but that's just a mask.".

Celestia nodded in understanding.

"Not to offend but I kind of wondered how you were able to accept all these sudden changes so easily."

Adrian gave a sad smile.

"Yeah well now you know I just kept my mind distracted so I wouldn't think about it. I guess I was so enamoured with leaving all the things I hated behind, it kept me from considering the good things I was losing. Still if I had the option to go back right now I wouldn't, this is my home now and I wouldn't change that for anything.".

Celestia nodded.

"You know if you ever want to talk to me I am happy to listen"

"Thanks but right now I just need to be alone for awhile."

"I understand, just let me know if you change your mind."

Turning around Celestia left Adrian to his thoughts. Adrian turned back to looking out the window only to pause halfway and get to his feet. He waited till Celestia was gone before heading for the lower levels of the castle. Under Canterlot castle was a number of large rooms that served as training areas for mages and the royal guard. Adrian had been using these chambers as testing grounds for the spells he was creating. He found that practicing his spellcraft was an excellent way to clear his head. Adrian had already created three spells original to him, the first was called "Sons of Sand", the second was "Soul Sword", and last was "Diamond Aura". The Sons of Sand spell was inspired by a book, it created almost invulnerable autonomous constructs out of sand, dirt, stone, ect each one bearing Adrians appearance. The Soul Sword spell was modeled after a sword from a game he liked known as the "Spirit Reaver". It conjured a blade made of pure energy to his hand, and he could alter the blades power and sharpness. He could make it only knock somepony out or he could make it sharp enough to cut dragonhide. As for the last spell it surrounded Adrian in a field of invisible force, it acted like armour but he also could adjust it to do a number of surprising things. After creating the three spells it occurred to Adrian that in all likelihood he would never need to use any of them. But he figured better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it, besides they looked awesome. "Still kinda hypocritical for me to create something like that after I said I hate how humans embrace conflict. But then I now live in a world with real dragons and other creatures that, based on my research don't exactly seem to play well with others. At least this new spell has a better use than conflict, assuming it works.". If anypony asked Adrian what his new spell was he would have told them it was a memory spell, but the truth was far more complicated. The spell worked on giving Adrian a sort of retroactive photographic memory, letting him recall with perfect clarity anything he ever experienced. It also allowed him to process information faster and more efficiently. However he had to make the spell work independently of his actual thought process otherwise it would risk making him experience every sensation and memory from his life all at once. It was analogous to adjusting the lenses for a pair of glasses, both lines of thought had to synch just right.

Adrian was quite certain that the worst case scenario would be the same as when a computer crashed. At best he would be a vegetable, at worst he could turn into a homicidal maniac. So he set up a failsafe, he summoned four of his sons of sand and hard coded them with orders to kill him if he raised his hand against any sentient lifeform. That done he set up another precaution that would knock him unconscious if he tried to leave the room without giving a passphrase. Now Adrian began to prepare the new spell, in truth he was going to test it days ago but never worked up enough courage. Adrian took a deep breath as he put the finishing touches on the new spell. Holding the energy within his body he mentally began to lock down parts of his mind. This last precaution would give him a much better chance of coming out of this unscathed if things went wrong, finally Adrian was ready. "Well anything worth doing requires risk." Adrian closed his eyes, he could hear the erratic beating of his heart as he allowed the spell to wash over him.

Tap, tap, tap, tap.

Luna glanced at the clock for the twelfth time tapping her hoof nervously on the castle dining room floor. "Where is he? Adrian is never late for us going out.", tonight was Adrian's last night in Canterlot. He had suggested they invite Twilight to join them for dinner saying he had something amazing to demonstrate and he wanted to share it with them. So she caught the train to Canterlot and arrived a few hours earlier with Spike. But Adrian had not been seen since the previous morning and Luna was starting to worry. Twilight noticed Luna's strained expression.

"Is everything ok Princess Luna?"

Luna jumped slightly at Twilight's voice, having been so busy worrying that she forgot her companion.

"It's just I've never known Adrian to be late, he is fanatical about never making ponies he cares about wait."

Twilight who was no stranger to the idea of keeping appointments on time at all costs, nodded her own concern growing, but still tried to reassure the princess.

"I'm sure he's on his way, it's only been fifteen minutes."

Luna nodded but still felt uneasy.

"It's just he's been distracted, lately he acts like he has some kind of burden but he won't tell me what it is. I don't suppose he told you?"

Twilight shook her head.

"No but when I got the invitation for dinner his letter did seem a little curt. Usually he writes long detailed letters that can run for pages, but this time it was barely a few sentences."

The conversation ended with the door to the throne room opened, but instead of Adrian it opened to reveal Celestia and Spike.

"Ok everything is ready" Spike stated proudly, much to the confusion of Twilight and Luna.

"Spike? Princess? What are you doing here? And what do you mean 'everything's ready'?"

"We aren't entirely certain, but that's what Adrian told us to tell you." Celestia answered.

"Wait! Sister, are you saying Adrians been with you two this whole time?!" Luna cut in, her voice taking a distinct edge.

Celestia looked surprised.

"Didn't you get his message to meet us all in the throne room?"

The two mares both shook their heads.

"That's odd but no matter, come with us Adrian said this would be something you will never forget."

Luna and Twilight gave each other a puzzled look but shrugged and followed Celestia and spike. Upon entering the throne room Luna and Twilight immediately saw Adrian. He was sitting crosslegged in the center of the room his eyes were closed and he seemed to be meditating. Luna and Twilight were about to run over to him but stopped when Adrian spoke.

"Girls stop, I am in the middle of a spell and I need as few distractions as possible. I promise you will understand in a moment, but for now just find a spot to sit where you can see me clearly."

Luna and Twilight wanted to yell at Adrian that they had been worried but held their tongue's deciding to wait and see what he had planned. Seeing Spike and Celestia had already chosen seats they took their place next to them.

"Good, now before we begin I need you to remember that everything you're about to see is an illusion, so none of us can be harmed by what you see. The performance is of three parts. The first is meant to reflect Twilight, the second reflects Luna, and last but not least is a reflection of Celestia. Also these songs are not original to me, they are all from various musicians on earth that I like but the visual effects are mine, I hope you enjoy them."

Adrian smiled as he completed his spell.

"The first song is 'Lift' by a group called 'Poets of the fall'."

As the music began the room suddenly vanished becoming a world of endless blue sky in all directions, an image of Adrian appeared flying through the air. As the four watched Adrian motioned them to follow him then shot forward at an impossible speed, clouds rushed passed and through them as the scene changed. Now under a star filled sky they rushed over an eternal lake filled with white lotus blossoms, the illusionary Adrian snached one from the lake surface then shot backward. As the lake continued to rush past Adrian's doppelganger hovered in front of Twilight presenting her with the flower levitating it from his hand to rest in her mane. Twilight blushed as the figment smiled at her before it exploded into thousands of star like motes of energy. As the audience watched the stars arranged themselves into an image of Twilight and Adrian. The Adrian image seemed to be sitting alone in the dark hugging it's knees to it's chest. The Twilight image walked over to the one of Adrian and seemed to say something to him whereupon he rose slowly to his feet. The faux Twilight held out her hoof to the faux Adrian who slowly and hesitantly placed his hand on it. The instant the star image of Adrian touched Twilights hoof the scene changed again. Now Adrian and Twilight where solid images hovering over Ponyville. Twilight gave a sweeping gesture towards the horizon and the two shot into the air stopping when they reached the clouds. The Adrian image smiled as he released Twilight's hoof his eyes beginning to glow. Stretching out his hand Adrian began to gather the clouds together with tendrils of lightning arcing from his hands. When he had enough clouds Adrian began using the lightning to shape them into a fantastic castle. The clouds then changed as he finished, now the castle seemed made of gold and silver. The castle was like nothing anypony had ever seen, it didn't look so much built as molded into artful shapes that looked almost organic. The song ended with the castle shrinking down till it fit in Adrians hand, whereupon he presented it to Twilight as if he was swearing loyalty to her.

With the song's end the illusion vanished to show that they were all still in the throne room. Twilight could think of nothing to say, nopony had ever done anything like this for her before.

Spike summed it up best.

"Wow."

Luna and Celestia just stared at Adrian in open mouthed amazement, they had never seen illusions used so elaborately or with such skill. In addition to controlling the illusions Adrian was also able to sing, and replay the music from memory, how was that even possible?

"So did you enjoy the performance?" Adrian asked.

"That was incredible!" cried Celestia.

"Beautiful." breathed Luna.

"Awsome!" yelled Spike.

Still unable to speak Twilight just nodded.

"Good, then I will begin the next one, it's called 'Whispers in the dark" from a group called 'Skillet'."

This time when the music began the setting was of a nighttime desert landscape. As they watched a figure wearing a large cloak that partially obscured his features stepped out from the shadows. Up to this point the music had been very quiet with few instruments, now it exploded with sound. At the change in the music the figure's "cloak" instantly unfolded into two massive bat wings. When the wings unfolded a cloud of ruby red rose petals billowed out from the figure. The figure within the cloud was made fully visible by the rose petals parting to create a sort of tunnel from him to the audience. The figure had Adrian's face but was pale as the moon his expression was predatory as he raised one arm directing the constantly moving rose petals to circle Luna. As Luna watched a glowing mist spilled from her mouth forming a sphere. The rose petals stopped circling Luna and began to orbit the sphere as it was pulled to the odd looking copy of Adrian. As the orb floated forward it changed becoming a ghostly clone of Luna. When the ghostly apparition reached Adrian he brought his wings to encircle it, blocking it from view. A moment later Adrian parted his wings to reveal a perfect copy of Luna. Next a number of shadowy figures emerged from behind the dunes of pale sand and began advancing on Luna and Adrian. With a smirk Adrian bowed to Luna before using his wings to blast himself into the air while the rose petals created a shield around her blocking her from view again. Whirling around in place Adrian snapped his wings propelling himself at the lead shadow who, now that it was closer, was revealed to have cruelly curved claws. The bat winged Adrian struck the lead shadow with the force of a battering ram. Causing it to burst into a small cloud of black mist. Now flaring his wings Adrian conjured a sword darker than the night sky and launched himself at the remaining shadows. With his every move in sync with the music Adrian destroyed shadow after shadow in an elegant and lethal dance. As the song drew to a close a single shadow was able to get passed Adrian. Just as the music ended Adrian threw his sword into the last shadow's back before recalling the sword back to his hand with a dramatic flourish. As the desert scene faded the rose petals fell away to reveal Luna with Adrian bowing to her on one knee his sword plunged into the ground before him.

Now back in the throne room again Luna blushed as she and the others applauded. Luna had to admit seeing the pony she loved fighting for her was very exciting.

Adrian smiled.

"Thank you ladies and dragons now the last act, this song is called 'Runaway' by the band '3 Doors Down'."

Once more the room vanished under the illusion this time showing a train track and slow moving train surrounded by thick woods. After letting the song play for a few seconds an illusionary Adrian ran smiling from the woods. After glancing around he waved somepony in the woods to follow, a moment later he was joined by a laughing Celestia. Running alongside the train they jumped into an open train car smiling the whole time. Next the scene shifted to Adrian and Celestia lying in a sunny field as the clouds passed overhead. Keeping in time with the music the scene continued to shift. In one scene Adrian and Celestia shared dinner while looking out at a cityscape, in another they swam in a lake splashing each other . Scene after scene showed Celestia and Adrian doing everything from running from the royal guard in an amusement park to sharing a drink on a yacht in the middle of the ocean. The last scene was of them finally returning to Canterlot escorted by the royal guard, only to escape onto another train while making faces at the furious guardponys.

As the final act ended Celestia stood frozen as Luna and Twilight looked at her questioningly.

"You and Adrian seemed on quite familiar terms in that last performance, is there something you two aren't telling us sister?"

Luna asked suspiciously as Celestia began to look extremely nervous.

"Yeah, is there something were not telling them?" Adrian asked, while simultaneously praying in his head that his guess about Celestia's odd attitude toward him was right. If he had guessed wrong he was certain she would at least break his legs and at worst turn him into a smoldering pile of ash. Worse still he would completely deserve it.

"I-I-I" Celestia stuttered.

"Ok, before Celestia can weasel out of this, I am just going to be direct. I think Celestia has a crush on me, and want's to join our herd but she's indecisive because of Luna and Twilight. Am I correct or do I need to start apologising?"

Celestia looked nervously from Luna, to Twilight, to Adrian.

"How did you figure it out?" she asked softly.

"Oh right like you weren't broadcasting it in the most obvious way possible. The only way you could have made it more obvious would be if you made a giant neon sign. I kept trying to ask you in private but you always found a way to avoid the question. I finally decided to try going for broke and hope I was right, I also figured you wouldn't lie to my face if I cornered you."

Luna and Twilight looked at each other, Twilight nodded.

"You know sister if you wanted to join us you should have just asked."

Celestia's expression became hopeful.

"So none of you mind?"

Luna, Adrian, And Twilight smiled and shook there heads. Celestia let out an enthusiastic "Thank You!".

Deep in the everfree it was silent, as if the world was holding it's breath. There was something in the air that felt wrong, and unnatural. A solitary squirrel cautiously picked it's way through the underbrush but stopped as the air in front of it began to shimmer. As the small rodent watched frozen in fear something emerged from the shimmer. The thing was not very big only about the size of a tennis ball, as it emerged it emitted a soft humm. The thing was a sphere of liquid metal like living mercury, as the air ceased shimmering it slowly hovered in place. The squirrel began to slowly back away hoping that the thing had not seen it. Two paces, no reaction, three paces no reaction, four, five, the squirrel prepared to run. The squirrel had turned around and started it's first step when it felt a sharp sting in it's back. A tendril of liquid metal as thin as a sewing needle connected the squirrel to the humming orb. Almost immediately the squirrel began screeching and thrashing in pain, the agony was too much for the poor animals heart, the shock causing it to to fail. This did not matter to the orb as it began modifying the creature's blood and its body. After another few seconds the orb withdrew it's tendril and the dead squirrel rose to its feet it's eyes now made of the same liquid metal as the sphere. This was only for a moment then it looked like any other squirrel but it stood stock still as it's mind linked with it's creator. Immediately the orb began to program it's new drone.

Priority one: assimilate.

Priority two: learn.

Priority three: test.

Priority four: evolve.

Priority five: perfection.

Query: what is perfection?

Response: perfection is survival.

Query: what are we?

Response: we are all.

This was the core of the drones programing the drone now existed to aid its creator in achieving the five priorities. The sphere would carry on with priority one, while the drone was tasked with starting priority two. The drone knew where to start, the only place the original squirrel had ever been besides the forest. Images from the former squirrel's mind showed a yellow winged quadruped, a small artificial structure, and. . . . a town.

Author's Note

This chapter is a little lackluster but I did manage to introduce the villain "or villains". I know my story telling skills need a lot of work, but I take great pride in showcasing this enemy. I created them for a friend who originally dreamed of putting them in a video game. I know some of you will think "oh goody killer machines like we haven't seen that in every other sci fi game and/or movie.". Well just to clarify:

They aren't exactly machines "It's complicated I'll explain later.".
I am someone who looks at a Megaladon and thinks "Nice, but it needs to be more deadly.".
This new enemy will let me shape all those monsters in the MLP universe into something that will make a nuclear holocaust seem pleasant.
There is no 4
I love imagining new spells, weapons, and so on.
You won't hear much more about this enemy until I manage to figure out how character development works. "At the rate I'm going I estimate 5000 or so years for this.".
There is no seven either, "also I have no idea what this list is for any longer.".

The Three Fillies of The Apocalypse

Two days had passed since Adrian had returned to Ponyville, he, Spike, and Twilight had been met at the station by Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie. Adrian then spent a pleasant few hours catching up with his friends at the library. Rarity as promised, presented him with a plethora of clothes for every conceivable occasion, and Pinky had literally buried him under a mountain of homemade treats. The next day Twilight took Adrian on a tour of Ponyville and upon their return to the library he nearly suffered a heart attack from a shout of "SUPRISE!". Pinky evidently had organized a surprise party to celebrate Adrians arrival in, and return to, Ponyville. Adrian had never been much for parties, but he had a great deal of fun and also got a chance to meet some of the other residents of the town. He met the mayor, the owners of the local spa, the Cakes, and just about everypony else in Ponyville. Later at Twilights request Adrian put on a show using his illusions, when he finished Adrian was approached by a pony who introduced herself as "Vinyl Scratch". She gave Adrian her card and told him that she had a proposition for him and to come by her club sometime. After the party ended Adrian and Twilight were so exhausted they fell asleep on the couch together.

Adrian woke on the third day to the sound of urgent knocking at the door.

"Huh? waizzit?"

The knocking continued at an even more frantic pace as Adrian stretched rose and headed for the door.

"Sorry, sorry, just give me a moment!"

Adrian grumbled indistinctly as he opened the door to find Rarity looking extremely frazzled.

"Adrian! Thank Celestia, I desperately require your assistance, it's a matter of life and death you have to help me!"

Adrian was instantly awake.

"What's the matter is the town under an attack of some kind?!"

Rarity took a deep breath before replying.

"I just got a meeting with one of Manehattan's premier fashion magazines "Mare Flair" they want me to come to Manehatten for an interview! But my parents are out of town and I need to watch my sister and her friends. I can't take them with me so I desperately need somepony to watch them. Please Adrian this could be huge for me and I really need help!".

Adrian looked at Rarity, he was no expert but for a fashion designer this sounded like a big deal (though life or death sounded a bit over the top). Adrian had always lived according to certain rules, these tenets and codes were permanently engraved in his mind. One such tenet was: Never refuse to give reasonable help to a friend, so almost without thinking he agreed.

"I would be happy to help Rarity."

Rarity looked like she could kiss him.

"Oh, thank you darling you have no idea what this means to me, you see I promised my sister and her friends they could have a slumber party. I know I'm asking alot but. . ."

Adrian cut her off with an upraised hand.

"Rarity you could never ask too much of me, I haven't forgotten your generosity, nor will I. All I ask is that you write down their bedtime and favorite foods, and I'll handle the rest."

Rarity smiled thankfully.

"Oh, Adrian you're a gem, my train leaves this afternoon come to my house at eleven o'clock, and thanks again."

Rarity vanished in a cloud of dust as Adrian just chuckled.

"Hey what's all that racket?"Twilight asked as she finally woke, Adrian smiled as he closed the door.

"Oh Rarity just needed a favor no big deal, why don't you go wash up Twi, I'll make breakfast."

Twilight yawned as she rubbed sleep from her eye's.

"Thanks Adrian I need to go wake Spike then I'll take a shower and be right down."

"Take your time Twilight, I'll try to have things ready by the time you get back."

Twilight nodded gratefully, "I should never have stayed up so late. That is the last time I agree to a candy eating contest with Pinkie." she admonished herself.

Adrian turned and entered the kitchen retrieving the ingredients for veggie and cheese omelets. Losing himself in the task of cooking Adrian wondered what Rarity's sister was like. Adrian had briefly been introduced to Rarity, and Applejack's little sisters as well as a third filly that seemed to be Rainbow Dashes protege. However he only spoke a few words to them at the party before he was distracted by Pinky Pie announcing a contest of some kind. When Adrian had turned back to the three fillies they had vanished, still they seemed sweet.

A half hour later Twilight came down from her shower her mouth watering at the smell of Adrian's cooking. Entering the kitchen Twilight was met with the sight of Spike greedily devouring his second omelet, he looked up just long enough to greet her.

"Hey Twilight you have got to taste Adrians cooking, it's the best!"

Adrian turned to Twilight a full plate in his hand as he said good morning.

"My mother always told me that if I really wanted to impress a girl I should cook for her. Although I doubt she expected that I would ever fall for three extra dimensional ponies."

Adrian placed the full plate in front of Twilight the instant she sat down.

"Yours is spinach, onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, and cheddar, I also added some fresh basil for seasoning."

Twilight cut into the omelet and levitated her fork to her mouth, Twilight's expression became one of total bliss as she tasted the first bite.

"Adrian where did you learn to cook like this? I can't remember the last time I had a breakfast this good."

Adrian laughed.

"My parent's were great cooks and they taught me the things you won't find in a cookbook. I also spent some time in Canterlot researching Equestrian food and recipes. Besides I wanted to do something to earn my keep."

Twilight swallowed.

"Wow your parent's sound amazing, it seems like they taught you all kinds of great things."

Adrian's expression became pained.

"They did. . . . I wish they could be here, if anyone deserved to come to this world it was them, not me."

At that moment Adrian sounded more depressed than Twi had ever heard him, she decided to change the subject.

"So what was it Rarity asked you to help her with?"

Glad to talk about something other than his former home and family Adrian resumed cooking as he replied.

"Oh she just asked me to babysit her sister and her sister's friends for a night."

Twilight nearly choked and Spike put down the plate he was licking to give her a worried look.

"Uh Adrian, just how much do you know about Rarity's sister and her friend's?"

Adrian didn't look up from cooking as he answered Twilight's question.

"Not much, why? are they delinquents or something?"

"No, but those fillies are a real handful, especially when they're all together, are you sure you're up to it?"

Adrian shrugged.

"I guess we'll find out, but I think I can do it I've seen her and her friends around and they seem harmless enough. They're the one's called Sweetie Belle, Applebloom, and Scootaloo right?"

Twilight sighed as she nodded, she knew that the three fillies were hardly malicious, but they did tend to be very hard to control.

"Ok so when are you leaving? I have a few books on foalsitting you should peruse."

Adrian placed another omelet on Twilights plate before taking the seat across from her.

"Thanks Twilight but I think I know what to do."

Adrian had been a student of many subjects on Earth and had a good head on his shoulders. So one wonders how he failed to recognize "I think I know what to do." as famous last words. . . .

Adrian arrived at Rarity's boutique at eleven o'clock sharp, he had a small bag containing a change of clothes and some reading material. As he got to the door Adrian heard a shriek in Rarity's voice followed by a loud crash. Adrian's protective instinct warred with his desire to be polite as he considered just barging in. Hearing the sound of muffled shouting Adrian rapped on the door with his knuckle's. In seconds Adrian was greeted by a very stressed Rarity.

"Adrian! You have no idea how glad I am to see you."

Looking over her shoulder Rarity's home looked like a warzone, mannequins, spools of thread, ribbons, bolts of fabric, and any number of other things were strewn all over. Adrian also noted the three young fillies at the center of the carnage looking guilty.

"Oh, I may have some idea." He responded looking over the destruction.

Rarity sighed.

"Darling if you don't want to do this. . ."

Adrian shook his head.

"Rarity I said I would and I will, end of story."

Rarity smiled.

"I have to get going, but the girls must clean up this mess they made on there own, so you don't lift a hoof understand?"

Adrian nodded as Rarity levitated a set of keys and a small piece of paper into his hand.

"Now darling, as you asked I wrote down their bedtime and favorite foods there's also a list of ponies to see in an emergency."

As Adrian took the list and followed Rarity inside he evaluated the three fillies in the center of the room.The one called Scootaloo had an orange coat and purple mane, the one called Applebloom had a yellow coat and scarlett mane, and finally Sweetie Belle with a snow white coat and purple and pink mane. To Adrian they looked incapable of any wrongdoing, and decided that there recent bout of destruction must have been an accident. Adrian smiled warmly at them, as Rarity packed away a few final items, they returned his smile nervously. Adrian hoped his appearance wasn't what was making them uneasy, the last thing he wanted was to intimidate them. Rarity paused to say goodbye after grabbing her bag and donning a yellow sun hat.

"Now remember girls, Adrian is in charge till I get back so be good and do as you are told. I don't want to come home to find you were misbehaving."

The three fillies saluted sharply.

"You got it sis"

"Yall have a nice trip."

"Bring back souvenirs."

Adrian had to hide a laugh at the last comment from Scootaloo.

"Well, I'll see you tomorrow evening, good bye and remember to be good."

With that Rarity was out the door and trotting to the train station. Adrian turned to the girls with a smile, hoping to show he was harmless.

"Well girls what do you say we clean up this mess and go have some fun?"

The three fillies looked at each other slightly confused.

"Uh, Mr. Adrian sir, didn't my sister say we had to do the cleaning by ourselves?" asked Sweetie Belle.

Adrian let out a chuckle.

"Well if I help it get's done faster, besides her exact words were "don't lift a hoof" and I don't have hooves. Also you can just call me Adrian, 'Mr.' makes me feel old."

The three young girls nodded laughing a little as they got to work, and after about twenty minutes the room was spotless.

"So girls what would you like to do now?"

"We wanna go crusading!" Applebloom stated proudly.

For an instant Adrian had visions of the three girls re enacting the horrific group of holy wars/genocides/pillagings perpetuated by the church.

"Come again?" he asked reminding himself that he wasn't on earth anymore.

The trio explained the Cutie Mark Crusaders to Adrian, and left his ears ringing when they shouted it's name. As they wrapped up the explanation they asked Adrian about his cutie mark.

"I don't have one." he said offhandedly.

Adrian heard the girls gasp, and look at him like he just asked if they wanted to see a severed head.

"Ya mean at yore age yall still ain't got a cutie mark?!" Applebloom asked in a horrified tone.

Adrian just shook his head as he explained.

"Humans don't receive cutie marks."

The three crusaders gasped again.

"B-b-but how do you know what you're talents are?" Scootaloo asked in shock.

Adrian smiled.

"Well we either discover our natural talent on our own, or we learn one through practice and study. Some humans have multiple talents and others don't have any whatsoever. I happen to be good at a number of things, but until I learned magic I was best at reading, blacksmithing, strategy games, and a whole slew of other things."

For a long time the crusaders just stood there with their jaws hanging open, till Applebloom broke the silence.

"What's a strategy game anyway?"

Adrian laughed.

"Well chess qualifies but I always found that to boring. So how about I show you one of my favorite strategy games?"

The girls nodded enthusiastically and Adrian directed them to sit in the center of the room. Adrian began casting an illusion, conjuring a gameboard and five dice 3 of them white, and 2 red. He also created a large number of small figures of soldiers, artillery, and tanks in four separate colors. Looking at the gameboard the three fillies beheld a map of an unfamiliar planet. The major land masses were divided up into smaller color coded continents that were in turn divided into countries. There was also a strange diagram or table whose purpose the crusaders could not divine.

"Ok girls this game is called "Risk" and before you ask this is a rough map of my planet, though most of the countries on it no longer have the names shown. The object of the game is to control the entire world using your army, it's a game of resource management, luck, and calculated risks, hence it's name. Now I think I should mention that no one has ever beaten me, ever. Also there can only be one winner, so watch out for each other too, now let me explain the rules."

After explaining how the game was played Adrian and the girls began, it only took Adrian an hour to defeat Sweetie and Scoots. Now it was down to Applebloom and Adrian. As Applebloom tried to decide on her next move Scootaloo nudged her.

"Hey, check out his expression, every time he sees you look at greenland he get's worried. He doesn't have Europe very well protected either except for one piece of it." she whispered.

Applebloom smiled as she saw what her friend was getting at, Applebloom placed all her allotted reinforcements in Quebec. She now had a good 30 troops positioned to attack through Greenland and take Europe. Applebloom invaded and easily captured Greenland and in short order had taken all of Europe. The attack had left her dangerously overextended but Adrian didn't have enough troops in a relevant adjacent territory to pose a threat.

"Thats it for mah turn." Applebloom declared smugly.

Adrian nodded.

"Applebloom, in my world it is said that when everything's going according to plan-". He paused as he held up no less than six reinforcement cards and smiled, "-you're walking into a trap.".

Applebloom watched in shock as Adrian positioned 31 troops in Ural which had six to start with, for a total of 37. Adrian then proceeded to retake Europe and Greenland before using three other armies of twenty units each to take Applebloom's last few territories.

"I left Europe vulnerable because I knew you would not be able to ignore it. All I had to do was give you a nudge by acting worried about an attack there, I needed to make it seem like a good move. You became so enthralled with exploiting my supposed 'mistake', that you forgot my reinforcement cards and other armies. I set a trap and you walked into it exactly as I planned, that's why I have never been beaten, because I know how to manipulate my opponents."

The crusaders frowned, disappointed that they had been defeated so easily, till Scootaloo winked at her friends.

"Ok you beat us, now we get to show you a game."

Adrian just shrugged.

"Ok what?"

The crusaders huddled together whispering to each other before turning to face Adrian.

"Well, how about. . . . TAG!" Screamed Scootaloo as she struck Adrian lightly with her hoof.

Before Adrian could say a word all three fillies shot out the door so fast that they spun Adrian around as they passed him. Adrian shook off his surprise then bolted out the door after them. "How the heck can they be that fast? I better move or I'll lose them.". With his newly enhanced body Adrian was able to run fast enough to almost catch up to the girls. Unfortunately the trio ran right through the crowded Ponyville market forcing Adrian to slow his speed. With their smaller stature the girls were able to easily slip through the crowds faster than their pursuer, and Adrian started to lag behind.

Scootaloo looked over her shoulder as she and her fellow crusaders escaped the crowd. Adrian was being forced to slow down by the tightly packed ponies and market stands.

"Cmon guys keep running!" Scootaloo urged.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle nodded as they made a beeline for Sweet Apple Acres and their clubhouse.

"C'mon ah know a shortcut!" Applebloom shouted as she changed course.

Adrian finally got free of the crowd his legs burning slightly from all the dodging and weaving he had to do. Looking around for the girls he felt his insides freeze as he saw them vanish into the Everfree Forest. Adrian ran as fast as his legs could carry him to the spot the girls had entered the trees. Putting up his Diamond Aura spell Adrian didn't slow down as he hit the treeline. Adjusting his spell to let him smash through the plants and tree branches Adrian continued until he came to a small dirt path.

"Girls! Where are you?!"

The only reply was the oppressive silence of the forest. Adrian looked in every direction in hopes of finding some trace of the three fillies, but the dense forest canopy blocked almost all light. As his eyes tried to adjusted to the gloom Adrian continued shouting for the girls, and tried to remember spell that could help.

Applebloom and the other crusaders ran through the trees jumping over roots and ducking low branches as they went. They kept going till they finally couldn't run any further.

"Did we lose him?" wheezed out Sweetie Belle.

"I think so" Scootaloo panted.

After catching their breath the crusaders started looking around.

"Uh Applebloom, shouldn't we be at Sweet Apple Acres by now?" Sweetie asked nervously.

Applebloom tried to remember the directions to the farm.

"Say uh girls, did yall happen to notice if we passed a dirt path while we were running?." Applebloom asked nervously. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo shook their heads.

"Uh oh."

Adrian was growing more and more frantic, he had done a lot of reading on the Everfree Forest, and he knew that it was one of the most dangerous locations in Equestria. Thinking fast Adrian cast a spell to alter his eye's to function in the darkness of the forest. As he finished the spell Adrians vision became tinged slightly greenish as his eyes adjusted. The oppressive darkness receded as Adrians new eye's magnified what little light there was till he could see as well as if the forest had overhead lights. Adrian wished he knew a spell that showed the infrared spectrum, then the girls would stick out like sore thumbs. Adrian was tempted to just start hacking the trees down in the hope that the commotion would attract the girls, but knew he was more likely to frighten them away, or attract something unpleasant. Adrian proceeded slowly listening and looking for even the most minute sign of the three fillies. As he went Adrian tried not to imagine what might happen to the girls if he didn't find them soon.

At the same moment the crusaders were trying to locate the path by retracing their steps, but it wasn't going very well.

"Are you sure this is the way we came?" asked Sweetie Belle.

Applebloom nodded confidently.

"Course ahm sure, all we gotta do is find the path an we're golden."

"Maybe we should stay put and wait for Adrian?" Sweetie suggested.

Scootaloo shook her head.

"Nah, besides look I can see sunlight over there."

It was true, about fifty meters ahead bright sunlight could be see through the trees.

"Last one there is a moldy carrot!" Shouted Scootaloo as she ran for the break in the trees.

It only took a few moments for the fillies to reach the opening in the canopy, but almost immediately they knew something was wrong. Across from where they emerged was another stretch of forest about thirty meters away. The ground in between was filled with broken trees bent away from the center of the path and slightly forward.

"Girls, ah don't think this is the path were lookin for."

No sooner had the words left Appleblooms mouth than a bellowing roar shook the air. A sound like thousands of giant sticks snapping could be heard echoing through the forest, and the ground under the fillies hooves began to shake and tremble. Something was coming, something big, and really, really, angry.

Adrian heard the sound of trees being broken and crushed, accompanied by roaring. Deciding that the time for subtlety was over Adrian prepared himself for a fight. Calling his soul sword to his hand Adrian enveloped himself in a levitation aura, closing his eyes and blasting up out of the canopy. Adrian dismissed his night vision spell with his eyes still closed to avoid being blinded. Opening his eye's Adrian felt icy fear clawing at his mind, "You gotta be fuckin kidding me!".

The girls were running again, but this time they didn't dare look back. They all knew what was behind them and what would happen if it caught them. Roaring in rage and hunger the Linnorm crashed through the forest destroying everything before it. Linnorms were cousins of Dragons, but they were far less common and much more violent. Linnorms existed to eat and destroy, they had no desire beyond this. Linnorms looked like dragons with no rear legs and no wings. Sleeping below the ground these beasts only woke to feed, they devoured anything they could kill, even smaller dragons. They could remain asleep for millennia before waking and beginning a rampage of devastation that ended only after the monster had eaten enough or been killed.

This particular Linnorm was only recently awakened and so was extremely hungry and filled with the violent rage typical of it's kind. As is watched the three running fillies through its massive black eyes the Linnorm inhaled deeply. Gathering mana in it's throat the beast transformed it into a vile caustic poison that would melt the flesh from the crusaders bones, and turn the forest to sludge.

Sweetie Belle collapsed, her lungs burning as she tried to catch her breath, Applebloom and Scootaloo rushed to their friends side.

"Cmon Sweetie Belle, we gotta go!" yelled Scootaloo.

"I. . . .can't. . . . run. . . . .anymore!"

"Yall have to or that thing will kill ya!" Applebloom cried out, tears in her eyes.

"Just. . . .leave. . . .me. . . .here. . . .run!"

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle hugged their friend, they wouldn't leave her to die alone. As they sat there the three fillies thought of their friends and family. They thought of all they had been through together and how lucky they were to have had such wonderful lives, as the sound of the Linnorm grew ever louder.

"STAND! SONS OF SAND!!"

A sound like grinding stone drowned out even the sound of the Linnorm's roar. Thousands of polished stone statues armed with spears and shields burst from the ground surrounding the three awestruck fillies. As they watched the statues pulled their feet from the ground and ran at the two hundred foot long serpent. As they ran the stone soldiers hurled their spears at the monster only for another spear to form in their hand. The Linnorm screamed in agony as the stone warriors swarmed around it hurling or stabbing their spears deep into it's flesh. A fountain of acidic death sprayed from the scaled beast's maw, a desperate attempt to stop it's tormentors. Covering the soldiers in acid did little to slow them, they hardly paused as they continued their onslaught. Some of the soldiers started used their spears like pitons to climb up the monster's body, the monsters green scales began to show streaks of red. As the fillies stared in amazement at the spectacle three of the soldiers grabbed them and carried them away from the battle. The last thing they saw was the massive serpent falling covered in blood as it died from the sheer number of wounds, then the trees blocked out the sight.

Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo saw the forest flash past them in a blur as their stone guardians bore them away to safety far faster than their size and weight would suggest. After less than three minutes of travel the stone effigies burst from the forest, but refused to stop until they reached town square. Depositing the three crusaders on the ground gave them their first good look at their rescuers.They were amazed when they saw that these stone constructs looked like seven foot tall statues of Adrian. But before they could attempt to speak to them the stone Adrians collapsed into a pile of sod and rock.

Adrian watched as his sons of sand slew the Linnorm and carried the fillies to safety. Adrian grimaced as white hot pain lanced through his body and mind. Conjuring a small group of his sons of sand was taxing enough, and right now he was maintaining over two thousand of them. Celestia had warned him that if he used to much power it could cause pain, fainting, or even death. Right now as blood poured from his eyes, ears, and nose Adrian almost wished he was dead. The pain was beyond anything he ever felt in his life, but he had to keep going, Adrian knew he couldn't keep this up much longer though. "Not yet, I have to make certain their safe!", Adrian could feel his body tearing itself apart as he continued the spell. He sighed in relief as he heard a metallic "PING" in his head, "Finally, they made it.". Adrian released the spell allowing unconsciousness to claim him as he fell to the ground.

No Business Like. . . .

Adrian found himself running, he had no idea what he was trying to escape or why. His surroundings were blurred, as if he was looking at them through the bottom of a soda bottle. Adrian could see indistinct shadows flitting by him far too fast for him to guess what they could be. As Adrian tried to force his legs to stop moving his surroundings changed. Now he was somehow standing before a figure who looked like he was made of shadows and dark mist. Adrian wanted to demand to know what the hell was going on but found that while his mouth was able to form the words, no sound came out. As Adrian glared at the strange apparition it pointed to the right, following its hand Adrian saw two statues. One was of a monster that looked like it had been cobbled together with the random parts of various other creatures. The other looked like a twisted (Though still strangely attractive) parody of Celestia. As he examined the statues Adrian noticed words engraved at their base. The creature whose parts didn't match had the word "Humility", while the Celestia parody had the word "Mercy". The shadow then pointed to the left where a polished silver mirror hovered in the air. As Adrian watched the mirror turned into liquid reminiscent of Mercury and formed a sphere, then it flowed into the letters C-A-V-E in fancy gothic lettering. Adrian just had time to wonder what the hell a cave had to do with anything, before the shadow creature rushed him. Adrian panicked as the shadow tried to smother him, he fought to free himself but the monster bound his arms. Helpless Adrian felt the shadow creep up his face covering his mouth and nose like a wet rag, he screamed as the darkness enveloped him.

Adrian opened his eyes to a white room that smelled faintly of antiseptic, raising his head Adrian noticed he wasn't the room's sole occupant. Laying on the floor fast asleep were Luna and Twilight. The room also contained various charts and medical equipment, including a heart rhythm monitor and surgical tools, "Am I in a hospital?" .Adrian also noticed a number of chairs placed randomly around the bed he lay in "I wonder who else came to see me? Wonder how long I've been here?". Looking out through the curtains of the room's only window Adrian figured it to be late morning. Rubbing sleep from his eye's Adrian's stomach growled loudly "Man I am starving, I must have been here at least a day or so.". Folding back the crisp white bed sheets Adrian got out of bed and knelt next to his sleeping marefriends gently shaking them.

"Hey girls wake up."

Slowly Luna and Twilight raised their heads to see who had disturbed them. For a few moments the two mares stared bleary eyed at the figure sitting beside them, then their eyes flew open completely.

"ADRIAN!!"

Before Adrian could so much as blink Twilight and Luna wrapped him in a bone crushing hug. Until that moment Adrian would never have imagined that quadrupeds could manage to hug someone hard enough to hurt.

"W-w-we t-thought you w-would never wake up!" sobbed Luna.

Twilight was also crying at this point and struggled to form words.

"Y-y-you a-almost, almost!" unable to finish the thought Twilight buried her face in Adrians chest as she cried.

Adrian held the two distraught mares as the door opened revealing a doctor and two nurses who came to see what the commotion was about. The doctor opened his mouth to demand the two mares release the patient, but stopped when Adrian gave him a warning glare. After about twenty minutes Luna and Twilight finally pulled themselves together enough to talk.

"W-when they found you, you were barely alive your body was suffering from stage 3 mana burn."

Adrian shivered as he recalled Celestia explaining the hazards of over channeling mana. . . .

"Celestia had been lecturing Adrian on the dangers of magic as one of his first lessons.

'The most dangerous injuries caused by magic are those caused by forcing one's body to contain more mana than it can cope with. This process is known as mana burn, and depending upon the severity it can be fatal. Mana burn injuries are ranked on a scale of one to five, at stage 1 the damage is relatively small. Stage 1 injuries range from extreme nausea to unconsciousness. Stage 2 is more severe and can result in unconsciousness, temporary memory loss, crippling pain, and minor neurological damage. Stage 3 mana burn is much more damaging it can cause rupturing of blood vessels, shock, permenant nerve damage, coma, or even heart failure. Stage 4 is almost always lethal causing internal bleeding, organ failure, brain damage, and sometimes explosive immolation. Finally there is stage 5 which is always fatal, the pony's body is unable to contain the sudden surge of mana, and they explode in a destructive maelstrom of uncontrolled magical energy. The good news is that the more a pony uses magic the higher their mana tolerance. Because of this mana burn is usually only a problem for young or inexperienced unicorns, it's almost unheard of in adults.".

Adrian knew he was lucky to have survived without any permanent damage, suddenly Adrians eye's widened in panic.

"THE GIRLS! WHERE ARE THE GIRLS?!!" Adrian shouted. As he lept to his feet Adrian was forced to sit down again as his head spun almost causing him to lose consciousness.

"Adrian relax the girls are fine, you saved them with that spell of yours. They told everypony what happened and Rainbow Dash set out with a rescue team of pegasi. The girls spent almost the whole weekend at taking turns at your side waiting for you to wake up, we had to all but drag them to school." Twilight explained.

Adrian allowed himself to calm down again at the news that the girls were ok.

"How long was I out?"

"Three days, the doctors say that anypony else would have died from your injuries. My sister and I have been taking turns staying at your side, Celestia was frantic when we found out what happened."

Just as Luna finished talking there was an explosion of light in the hall followed by Celestia rushing into the room.

"Adrian, Thank the sun you woke up!"

Celestia ran to Adrian's side almost tripping over a chair in her haste. On reaching Adrian, Celestia threw her forehooves around him holding him in a tight hug.

"When they first let us see you. . . ." Celestia broke off crying on Adrians Shoulder.

Adrian held Celestia patting, and reassuring her, at the same time he tried not to imagine how he must have looked three days ago.

"I'm sorry I made you so worried, but I promise I'm ok now."

Adrian felt awful that he had put the three mares he loved in so much pain. Seeing them cry was like a knife twisting in Adrians guts and he felt a deep self hatred for having caused their tears.

After about an hour the news had spread across Ponyville that Adrian was awake. The ponies cheered and hollered at the announcement, the crusaders having made certain to tell the story of their rescue (with a few embellishments) to the whole town. Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applejack Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, rushed over the instant they got the news. Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow each thanked him profusely for their sister/sidekicks rescue. Rarity promised him that he would never have to pay for cloths as long as he lived. Applejack stated that any time he wanted apples from her farm they were on the house. As for Rainbow she gave Adrian a hug and promised to repay him any way she could, Adrian however refused their gifts.

"Girls, I saved your sisters because it was the right thing to do, I neither want, nor deserve, a reward for that. Besides, if I had been more competent they would never have been in the forest."

"Don't say such things, the girls know better than to enter into the everfree forest."

"Rarity is right, you didn't do anything wrong."

Adrian considered Rainbow and Rarity's words, he still felt like it was his fault but decided not to argue. The three fillies were safe, that was all he cared about, still it was a close call. A short time later Adrian was discharged from the hospital, heading home he was hailed as a hero by everypony that saw him. Adrian was almost knocked over when Applebloom, Scootaloo, And Sweetie Belle tackled him in a hello hug. Finally Adrian managed to get to the library where he was fussed over by everypony. Celestia and Luna were forced to return to Canterlot and their duties and the others eventually left after Adrian assured them for the millionth time that he was ok. Finally only Adrian, Twilight, and Spike remained, Twilight was still a little clingy, not that Adrian minded. As Adrian lay on a couch with Twilight he replayed the Linnorm battle in his head.I guess that just because the ponies are peaceful it doesn't mean there's no violence. When I get the chance I better develop some more combat spells. But before I start anything else I need to find some paying work." As Twilight fell to sleep in his lap Adrian remembered the pony who gave him her card at Pinkie's party, that seemed like a lifetime ago.

Removing it from his pocket Adrian read:

Hoofbeat Club
Vinyl Scratch, co owner, DJ, and talent scout
23 Bay st, Ponyville .

Adrian considered the card, "Well might as well check it out.", Adrian resolved to go the next day and see what Miss Scratch had in mind for him.

The following afternoon Adrian found himself walking down Bay street looking for the address on the card. Adrian had tried to maintain a low profile coming here, but being the only Human on the planet made that rather difficult. The reason he wanted to avoid attention was because of ponies constantly wanting to shake his hand or get him to sign an autograph. Everypony wanted to associate with the heroic human they had been told about. Most of the problem lay in the story of what happened, as is usually the case it had not taken long for the information to get distorted. In the last thirty minutes Adrian had heard three separate versions of his exploits, each more outlandish than the last. His favorite adaptation was the one where he had fought off the Linnorm with only a broken branch and a rubber chicken. Adrian had tried to set the story straight but everypony thought he was just being modest. It wasn't that Adrian didn't appreciate the praise, he just felt that accepting a reward of any kind for doing the right thing was wrong. He believed that the right thing should be done because it was right, never because you would gain a reward. To him accepting even simple praise cheapened the lives of those he helped, reducing them to a tool for feeling good about himself.

After a few minutes of looking Adrian was able to find the place he wanted. The building was a large brick structure with a deactivated neon sign saying "Hoofbeat Club". A bluestone path led up to a pair of large double doors flanked by heavily tinted windows, and a surprisingly well done flower garden. "So this is the place, wonder how it looks at night?", Adrian shrugged his shoulders and knocked on the door. It was only a moment before the door was opened to reveal a pony with a raven black mane and grey coat. She had a cultured sophisticated air about her which was enhanced by the white collar with pink bowtie on her neck and her musical note cutie mark.

"Can I help you?"

She spoke with a slight British accent that made Adrian think of Canterlot, she also seemed unfazed by the presence of a human (for about point five seconds.).

"Yes I'm looking for-"

Adrian was interrupted by a loud fangirl squeal.

"Oh my goodness your him your Adrian the human hero!"

Adrian wanted to respond that he was no such thing but was pulled inside by the strange mare before he could offer protest.

"I can't believe it's really you, oh I am such a huge fan!"

Adrian wasn't sure how to respond to that, frankly he was still wondering how he could have a fanbase at all.

"My name is Octavia, oh you're even more handsome up close! nopony will ever believe this, I was so jealous that Vinyl met you before me!"

Adrian was happy that he was in the right place after all, but this mare was creeping him out a bit. Besides if Twilight or the princesses saw a mare clinging to him like this, they might get the wrong idea. Octavia continued to babble like a boyband groupie as she led him through the club. He managed to catch a glimpse of a raised stage with all kinds of DJ paraphernalia, and an elaborate lighting setup. His view was cut off as he was all but dragged into a large office with two desks. The whole room was neatly divided into what could be called a classical section, and a modern section. One side looked like it belonged to an 17th century composer while the other looked like it came from a high end nightclub. Adrian saw that Vinyl Scratch was seated behind the desk on the nightclub side of the room. Octavia finally released Adrian and at long last ceased talking about how amazing he was. Vinyl smiled behind her black framed sunglasses the pink reflective lenses flashing as they caught the light.

"Sup, Adrian?"

Adrian shot a quick glance at Octavia before responding.

"I was hoping you could tell me, you said you had a proposal for me?"

Vinyl smiled and nodded.

"Yeah I wanted to ask if you would be interested in performing at the Hoofbeat Club. I saw what you could do at the party and it was amazing, your song and illusion routine could be the next big thing in Equestrian entertainment. I figure you could do a few shows here and if they work out I could sign you with my studio, what do you say?"

Adrian smiled, this was exactly what he had been hoping for.

"Sounds good to me."

"Awsome, but before we go into details there are two things I need you to do."

Adrian raised an eyebrow suspiciously.

"Oh, and what might these things be?"

Vinyl gave Adrian an appraising look.

"Well first you need a stage name, but that's easy enough it's the second thing that's kind of tricky."

Adrian frowned slightly.

"And what is the second thing exactly?"

Vinyl sighed.

"Well all your songs so far are taken from music groups in your world. I need you to give me at least one song original to you."

Adrian smirked.

"Is that all? and here I thought this would be hard. As it happens ladies I do have a song original to me, shall I demonstrate?"

Vinyl and Octavia nodded.

"Well then let's go to the stage and I will show you."

One hour later Adrian left the studio, after his performance Vinyl and Octavia insisted that Adrian return that evening for his first public debut. Adrian's demonstration more than reassured the two music ponies that he could indeed create his own songs. After making a few arrangements Adrian decided to return to the library and rest for the performance. As Adrian walked back to the library a squirrel scampered out in front of him. It stopped in the middle of the street and paused to look at him. Normally Adrian would not have found this unusual, or even worth noticing. But the longer he watched the squirrel the more uneasy he felt. Adrian couldn't say what it was but the squirrel seemed. . . . .wrong somehow. The squirrel looked normal enough the only odd thing about it was it's fur. The fur looked just a bit too long and it had a shimmering silver grey color that looked almost metallic. Adrian stepped closer to the small creature to get a better look, but the squirrel bolted into a patch of long grass and disappeared. Adrian shook his head, "I must be nuts if I'm suddenly paranoid about a squirrel" Adrian mused as he started walking again.

After returning to the library Adrian helped Spike with his chores and minding the library before taking a nap, waking up around 7:00pm. His performance was at 10:00pm. When Adrian had gotten back from his interview at the Hoofbeat Club he had asked Twilight to come to the performance. When Scratch and Octavia convinced him to perform the same night they hired him, he attached the condition that seats be made available for all his friends. Adrian also sent a letter inviting Luna and Celestia to come, but they had to decline because of work piling up. During dinner Twilight tried to get Adrian to describe the performance, but he would only tell her it was a surprise. After their meal Adrian left for the club to go over last minute details with Scratch and Octavia.

Heading out the door Adrian paused to admire the sunset, the sun itself was gone but a wonderful mix of purple, orange, and yellow light still lingered on the horizon. As Adrian walked down the all but deserted streets of Ponyville he let his mind wander. He found that his thoughts kept returning to two things. First was the odd dream he had while he had been in the hospital, second was the squirrel he had seen earlier. Adrian had no idea why his brain was so fixated on such a useless pair of thoughts. But no matter how hard he tried he couldn't get them out of his head. "It's strange, I feel like they are connected, but that makes no sense. I must be suffering from some kind of weird PTSD, I'm making up threats where there are none.". Any further thoughts Adrian might have had on the subject were cut short by his arrival at his destination. Word must have traveled fast because it looked like ninety percent of the town was waiting to get in. The club wasn't open yet but a massive line had formed in front of the door. Adrian hid before the crowd noticed him and entered through a backstage entrance Vinyl had shown him earlier that day.

"Hello Adrian, it's wonderful to see you again I can't tell you how exciting this is. Vinyl and I are so honored that you're performing at our club."

Octavia had apparently been waiting for him to arrive. No sooner had he entered then she latched on to his arm and yanked him onto the stage where Vinyl was getting things set up.

"Yo Adrian I almost have everything ready, this place is gonna be jumpin tonight. As soon as you left Octavia started going round putting up flyers about your performance. Next thing I knew half of Ponyville showed up outside, you must be the most happenin stallion in town to draw a crowd like this."

Adrian was glad so many ponies had shown up but he was starting to wonder if his recent fame wasn't getting just a bit out of control. Next time I do something heroic I'm telling everypony that it was Rainbow dash..

"Hey Vinyl, what's with all the electronics? I don't need you to provide music or anything, heck, I don't even need a microphone."

"Oh this is for when your act is over, and I set up some equipment to make a live recording of your song. Speaking of, it's just about showtime. I'll give your name and intro then you start the song the second I finish, got it?"

Adrian nodded taking his position on a soft cushion where he would maintain and direct the spell. Closing his eyes Adrian relaxed his mind and body. Adrian found that if he was relaxed it was easier to perform and maintain the spells. As Vinyl and Octavia let in the crowd Adrian began gathering mana.

Twilight and her friends were escorted to front row seats as soon as they arrived. As the club was filled to capacity they chatted among themselves.

"So he wouldn't say anything about what he was planning tonight?"

"No Rainbow I tried to get him to tell me at dinner but he wouldn't say anything."

Rainbow was about to reply when Vinyl appeared on stage.

"How's everypony doing tonight?!"

The crowd roared and stomped in response.

"All right well we have a very special performance for you tonight! Appearing for the first time on stage I give you the rocker from another world. . . Twinstar!"

The instant the name left her lips Vinyl jumped off the stage and the show began. A light jazzy tune coming from every direction as Adrian sang, his eye's glowing.

In the city now.
In the city now.
In the city nowooowowoow.

Look up high as I walk down the street.
See the towers of glass, steel, and concrete.

In the city now.
In the city now.
In the city nowooowowoow.

Walkin on down that crowded street.
So many people I never did see.