Three Best Friends & Their Journey in Equestria!

Chapters

Prologue: The Afterparty!
I'M A PONY?!?!?!?
New Ponies at the Corner
VICTORY!!!!!
The Prince Alicorn of Awesome?
IT'S NOT A DATE!
Groggy Morning Dangers
Enter Meet-The-Villain and Almost-Killed Chapter Here
The Dark Mare's Maze Part 1
DMM Part 2: Rise and Return
Trixie, Why?
An Unexpected Ally
Training
Over the River, Through the Woods, to Canterlot We Go!

Prologue: The Afterparty!

“Man, I’m beat.” I complained after cleaning up our small graduation party that we held in our apartment just a few hours ago. “I feel like a mix of Pinkie Pie and Berry Punch!” Zack rolled his eyes at the brony reference. He’s a Brony too, and we made Lara a Pegasis. Lara replied, “So you’re still hyper and drunk at the same time? That’s nothing new.”Zack laughed at her remark and added, “Besides, now that we’re done with college, we have all the time in the world to get a job, act seriously, and then be drunken bronies on the side.”We all sat down and chatted for a bit about the party, and what kind of job we wanted. Zack and I were already paid interns at this law firm in Manhattan. Lara went for nursing and was going to try for a job opening next month. Other than that, we were free to be ourselves.

It was probably just all the beer going to my head, but I swear I saw the space in the middle of the living room shimmer and distort. “Whoa,” Zack said. “Did anyone else see that? The space right here just sparkled and –“

He was cut off by a loud POP! and in the center of our living room was a small horse. A pony, to be exact. And it had wings. And a horn. And it was indigo with a shimmering dark blue mane that flowed by an otherworldly wind. Lara, surprisingly, was the first to speak. “I'm not sure if I'm still drunk like you guys, but... is that really Princess Luna standing in the middle of our apartment?”

Luna nodded and was about to speak, but was cut off by a loud “HOW IN THE WORLD IS SHE HERE?”Lara and I glared menacingly at Zack for his outburst. Luna replied, “Don’t worry about that. I’m just here to ask you for your help.”

I spoke up, “So you’re just going to teleport into our universe and randomly ask a bunch of humans whom you’ve just met 5 seconds ago to help you in Equestria for something?” I nodded and added with a touch of sarcasm, “Seems legit.”

Luna responded to my query, “I know that you humans think of me and my world as a...what do you call it? ‘TV show characters.’ We do really exist. The proof is right in front of you. As for picking you to aid us, my sister, Princess Celestia, and I have been looking into your realm for centuries. And based upon your skills and personality, we have seen it fit that we choose you three to aid us in our time of need.”

“But-!” Zack, Lara, and I were about to say something when a tingling sensation came over all three of us. “No time left for chatting!” Luna said. She was using her magic on us. “Time is of the essence! We must go!” But as she magically opened a portal to Equestria, there was a shockwave that emanated from the portal and into our living room. I felt her magic lose its grip on me, and I could finally be able to move, but the shockwave blasted me, Zack, and Lara back onto our couch. Suddenly the shockwave stopped, and Luna wasn’t there anymore.

“Whoa...” Lara said after a moment. “I’m not sure what just happened, but I’m pretty sure we’re still drunk.” She laughed a little, then fell silent as she realized Zack and I were being very serious.“I know those faces,” Lara said, sounding a little scared. “Those are your ‘thinking’ faces. What’cha thinking about?”

Zack replied by raising his hand and pointing at an object at the floor. It was a dark blue slipper, just like the ones Luna wore. “She really was here.” All three of us approached the pony shoe, and we heard an evil laughing sound that seemed not of this world. It was coming from the shoe! I was just about to touch it when suddenly a flash of light blinded me and my friends, and we fell to the ground unconscious.

I'M A PONY?!?!?!?

“Ughh....” I woke up slowly and groggily. I was mentally awake, but my body refused to move. I couldn’t open my eyes. I felt a breeze, so I was probably outside. I could hear running water off to my left, which meant a river for drinking or a way into town was available.

I started to feel my muscles come to, so I decided to open my eyes. I was in some kind of cartoon/animation world. Somehow, it looked very familiar, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. I heard a groan behind me, and saw two unconscious ponies on the ground; one a pegasus, the other a unicorn. My jaw DROPPED. I WAS IN EQUESTRIA! And I somehow transformed into a PONY! The brony side of me wanted to bounce around like Pinkie Pie and celebrate such a marvel, but the serious side of me realized that there are more important things at hand.

The unicorn was brown with a black tail and mane that slightly covered the right eye. The horn was about 5 inches in length. On its flanks was an image (identified later as a Cutie Mark) of a large, blue star that clashed somewhat against the brown coat. The Pegasus was yellow like Fluttershy and had a golden mane and tail, both of which had an orange streak. Her Cutie Mark was a flaming arrow. I assumed that these two ponies were Zack and Lara. I ran straight to where I previously heard running water, and as guessed, there was a river. I looked at my reflection and saw a dark gray pony with a jet-black mane and tail and a streak of metallic blue in them. My blue eyes matched the streaks in my mane. My Cutie Mark was the black silhouette of a sword and a white lightning bolt behind it, and kind of bisecting the shadowy sword.

What surprised me even more was that I had a horn! I thought since the Zack and Lara were a unicorn and pegasus already, that I would, locially, be an Earth pony. With further inspection, and with even more shock on my account, I HAD WINGS. I was an Alicorn!!!!!! I was going to scream in joy when I heard Zack (unicorn) waking up.

“Whoa....what happened?” He looked to his side at the pegasus Lara. “HOLY BUCK, IT’S A PEGASUS!” He looked at himself, and checked his forehead. “AND I’M A UNICORN! YAAAAAAAaaaaayy.....” His screams died down to a Fluttershy-like level when he saw me. I saw a look of fear in his eyes, which disappeared completely when I called to him, “Hey Zack, are you okay?”

He immediately recognized my voice. “Luke? You...You’re an alicorn? What’s going on here?” I replied with a theory I made up on the spot, “I think that the shoe Luna left acted like...um.... what did the Harry Potter people call them?” “Portkeys.” Zack answered. “Ah, right.” Leave it to the egghead to respond immediately. I continued. “This ‘portkey’ brought us here, and in order to keep the natural laws of nature in balance, we were turned into ponies.”

Now Pegasus Lara stirred. She had the same reaction as Zack, but we briefly told her my theory, and we went straight to trying to think of names. Zack went first. “I have a black star as a Cutie Mark, right? So....umm...how about Dusk Star?” Zack queried. Lara and I agreed. It was simple, easy to remember. Lara’s turn for a name. “I have a fiery arrow for a Cutie Mark, which is pretty cool, soooo....I’ll go with.....” *pause here indicates the twenty minutes of Lara’s decision making process* “Fire Storm seems appropriate, right?” Zack and I agreed; mostly to escape any further drawn out deliberation by Lara.

And now it was my turn for a name. “Since I have a shadowy grey coat, and a sword and lightning bolt on my Cutie Mark, I’ll be called Shadow....” I needed a second name to exemplify the lightning bolt behind the sword. “Blitz. That sounds pretty cool. Shadow Blitz. Alicorn of Awesome. This could work.”

After this we decided to get used to moving around in these bodies. It took a while, but soon enough, we had the basics of walking and flying (for me and Lara) down. Lara flew above the treetops, and saw where Canterlot was on a mountain. My guess was that Ponyville should be about twenty minutes from there. Zack kept worrying about the fact that we were in the Everfree Forest. However, due to the fact that it was really cold today in Equestria, I doubted any creatures would come out to strike us. And so, we started our trek to Ponyville.

New Ponies at the Corner

It felt like forever, but we finally made it to Ponyville. It was late afternoon, and ponies were still out and about. Lara whispered to me and Zack, “Remember, act natural. Act like you’ve lived here long enough to know almost anypony. Which we should, seeing as we’re two Bronies and a Pegasister.”

I nodded in agreement, smiling calmly as the three of us walked throughout Ponyville without a hitch. Sure there were some ponies that stared, but still there were others that smiled and waved at us, and we were happy to return to them.

Zack suddenly stopped, and said, “Do you two hear something...singing?” Lara and I stopped to listen. It was barely audible, but I swear I heard, “All I really need is a smile, smile smile, from these happy friends of miiiine...”

My eyes went wide with both fear and excitement. Excited because I get to meet my favorite pony in person, and fear because I’d knew that she’d recognize us as newcomers. I saw her bouncing around the corner and coming straight towards us. She stopped in front of us, and I was about to greet her when, “OH. MY. GOSH. I’ve never seen you three here before! Are you new to Ponyville? Because I know just about everypony that lives in Ponyville. Whoa you’re an alicorn! Cool! Are you a prince? This is GREAT! This means I can throw a party for three new ponies at once! That’s gotta be a new record of new ponies, like ever! I’ll need balloons, streamers, sarsaparillas, Pin the Tail on the Pony, and of course Gummy would want to join us...” Zack, Lara, and I just stood there as the pink party pony just rambled on about planning our welcoming party without further intake of oxygen.

“Oh there you are, Pinkie! I’ve been looking everywhere for you and-Oh, are these three ponies new to town?” I turned to see who saved us from the hyperactive pony’s rant, and saw none other than the beautifully radiant and fashionably talented Rarity. She introduced herself, holding out her hoof to shake with us. “I am Rarity. I work at the Carousel Boutique, where I am known to make the finest dresses in all of Equestria.” Zack and Lara stood by me speechless. I decided to speak up. “Tis quite the honor to meet such an esteemed and classy citizen such as yourself, Miss Rarity.” I took her hoof and kissed it, being the chivalrous mate that I am. “Oh, do stop, sir, you make me blush.” She did so upon receiving the compliment.

“Where are my manners? I’ve given this wonderful mare a well-deserved compliment and I haven’t even given my name, nor those of my friends.” I said, smiling at Rarity. She smiled back. Zack stepped forward and introduced himself. “I’m Dusk Star. It is quite an honor to meet you, Rarity.” He shook hooves with her, and was followed by Lara, who said, “And I’m Fire Storm. And may I say that I really love your mane, Rarity. How do you get it styled in such a way?” “Ah, that, my friend is a story that I will share at your welcoming party tonight, which I assume you are attending?” Rarity asked. “Of course!” I replied. “I wouldn’t miss Pinkie Pie’s party for the world!” The aforementioned pony finally stopped listing things for her party, gasped when I said her name, and asked me, “How do you know my name? I haven’t even told it to you yet!”

Zack saved me here by saying, “But of course stories of your amazingly fun parties reach out farther than Ponyville! Your parties are so well known, you shouldn’t be surprised that more and more new ponies keep coming to town!”

Pinkie was about to reply to him when Rarity interrupted, “I’m sorry darlings, but we must be on our way. We do have a party to plan tonight.” She started to walk off into the distance with Pinkie, who enthusiastically waved us good-bye. We were more than happy to return it.

~~~~~~~

Later that day....

“Pinkie, I must say this is one rocking party!” Lara shouted over the music blasting throughout Sugarcube Corner.

The party had been going on for a while, and we were all having a really great time. I was walking around when Rarity approached me again and said, “You never told me your name, kind sir.” “Really?” I responded. “My apologies, my dear friend. My name is Shadow Blitz.”

Rarity looked me up and down. I only realized now that I was taller than her, possibly around Big Mac’s height. “And you are an alicorn? I thought Princesses Luna, Celestia, and Cadence were the only ones in existence!” I wing-shrugged, which I'm gonna have to get used to doing. “Not all things stay uniform for very long, it would seem. One in the fashion industry, such as yourself, should understand, yes?” The ivory coated mare smiled and was about to say something when Zack came out of nowhere, bouncing along after Pinkie Pie. Rarity looked to him in concern. “Will Dusk Star be alright?” She asked. “Don’t worry,” I answered. “He just hasn’t had real sugar in a long time. When he does, he gets a strong sugar rush. The same goes for me, and I wish to abstain from consuming too much sugar, so as not to become as hyper as Pinkie.”

Rarity giggled at my formal speech, and said, “You must be good friends with him, then.” I nodded and responded, “Him and Fire Storm have been my best friends since we were foals.” “And naturally, you were the leader of the group? You take many sudden situations well, like when you were talking with me and Pinkie earlier today.” I was about to give a say something about how Zack was more of a leader, but was interrupted by a certain purple unicorn.

“Hello there Mister um... Shadow Blitz, right?”Twilight asked. “What can I do for the great, prodigious Twilight Sparkle today?” I asked, being polite. Twlight blushed a little at the comment before continuing. “My friend, Rainbow Dash, would like to race you tomorrow morning. She thinks you might me be a good practice opponent.” I smiled at that. “She chose wisely, then. “I said. “My pegasus friend isn’t big on racing. So tell Ms. Dash that I accept her challenge.” The unicorn nodded and walked away. I turned and saw that Rarity was now talking to Lara.

I was really starting to enjoy staying in Equestria. I wished I could live here forever. FOREVER.

VICTORY!!!!!

I woke up in a room that had mannequins stuffed into a corner. I looked around to see that Fire Storm and Dusk Star (I’ll be calling them that now, so as not to get my audience confused) were sleeping at either side of me. I struggled to remember last night. Oh right, Rarity’s house. The party last night ended at around 10 in the evening, and we had nowhere to stay for the night. So, Rarity offered for me, Dusk, and Fire to stay in her guest room at the Carousel Boutique. I refused at first, not wanting to be a burden (there had to some kind of hotel around, right?), the ivory unicorn just kept insisting that we stay with her.

“She truly is the Element of Generosity.” I murmured to myself. I closed my eyes to catch a few more Z’s, but I opened my eyes suddenly because I remembered something: I was challenged to a race against Rainbow Dash! “You guys! Wake up!” I nudged at my fellow sleeping ponies. Fire was the first to stir, followed by Dusk. The latter pony had a huge “sugar rush-hangover” and was quite irritated when he woke up. We exited the guest room and walked into the main room of the Boutique. It was filled with mannequins covered with elegant gowns, and easels with sketches of future fashionable ideas.

“Rarity? Where are you?”Dusk called out. “In here darlings! In the kitchen!” We heard her through a doorway off to our left. We walked in, and saw Rarity and her little sister, Sweetie Belle, eating eggs for breakfast. “You must be the new ponies in town that my sister was talking about!” The younger sibling said. She ran up to my side and examined my Cutie Mark. “Whoa! Your Cutie Mark looks cool! How’d you get it?”

I was about to give a random response when Rarity scolded, “Sweetie Belle! You know better than to just ask our guests that question so openly!” The smaller pony walked back to her seat at the table, her eyes showing innocence. “I made extra eggs for all three of you for breakfast this morning! I hope you enjoy them.” Rarity continued, smiling and gesturing to a plate in the middle of the table. We sat down, had our breakfast, and socialized a little. Sweetie Belle spoke up, asking Fire Storm, “How’d you get your Cutie Mark?” The pegasus smiled and answered, “It’s because when I fly very fast, which isn’t very often, I look like an arrow that’s on fire. Also, if I fly fast and low enough I leave a trail of flames behind me.”

Sweetie looked to Dusk, who answered, “My Cutie Mark represents how much I like magic and the nighttime. I always liked stargazing at night. It’s very peaceful and stress relieving.” Sweetie looked at me expectantly. My pals looked at me, smirking. I knew those looks. They had made up stories that the little filly so eagerly accepted, like me with free samples at a food court.

“The shadowy sword represents my never-ending loyalty to my friends. It also represents my strength, both physically and mentally. Being physically strong helps me fight for my friends, and being mentally strong," I said, pointing at the filly's horn," helps strengthen my magic. The lightning bolt behind the sword represents my love for speed. Which will be shown today against Rainbow Dash, correct?

Rarity nodded, smiling. “Are you sure you’re up to the challenge?” I heard another young filly’s voice by the door. I turned and saw Scootaloo! The pegasus filly still had her blue helmet on, and she had a smirk on her face. “Rainbow Dash is the fastest pony ever! I doubt you can fly half as fast as her!”

“It’s all in good fun, Scoots,” Sweetie Belle said, walking to join her friend on another journey for their Cutie Marks. “It won’t really matter.” The orange pegasus just hmph-ed and left with the filly unicorn.

I looked back to Rarity, who rolled her eyes and said, “They’re just fillies. Don’t worry about them.”

~~~~~

“So where’s Mister Alicorn Hot Stuff? I can’t wait to kick his flank in this race!” I could hear Rainbow Dash boasting from a mile away. Rarity took us to meet with Rainbow, Applejack, Twilight, and Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy couldn’t make apparently: she had promised Angel a picnic.

Anyway, Rainbow Dash saw me, Dusk, Fire, and Rarity walking towards her, and zoomed towards us. “Hey! Here you guys are! Let’s go already!" Twilight waved at Dusk, as the two had made acquaintances last night (and to be honest, I can’t wait to see what unfolds from that). Applejack and Pinkie just waved hello and waited for the exciting race to come. Dash started taunting, “I bet you think you’re pretty fast, huh? But you’re looking at the fastest pegasus in all of Equestria! There’s no chance you could beat me and my Sonic Rainboom!”

I smiled and replied, “Oh, I know all about you and your Rainboom, Miss Dash. I’m just doing this for laughs, which I’ll be doing when I win.” The cyan pony smiled and said, “We’ll see about that. I welcome your challenge, no matter how hopeless it is for you.” Twilight intervened and said, “Alright here are the rules! Rule one, no magic allowed!” She looked at me especially. “Two, cheating and outside help is automatic disqualification. Three, not too much roughhousing, so we don’t have any injured ponies. Finally, four; you are each allowed one use of your special trick, for example, Dash’s Rainboom.” She looked at me, and I shrugged in response. I only had this race to figure out if I had my own version of a Rainboom.

“Okay, good luck to you both.” The magician said, and her horn lit up with a purple aura. The same colored aura covered clouds and arranged them into a course filled with many sharp turns and one very long straightaway to the finish line, perhaps for the Rainboom and etc.

Dash and I headed to the cloud that marked the starting line. Then out of nowhere, Pinkie on a balloon floated up to our level. “READY!” Dash and I made poses like we were about to pounce. “SET!” Our hind legs tensed up for a boost at the start. Our wings unfurled, ready for action. “GO!” Pinkie cried, and we were off! Pinkie Pie commented during the whole race, but I paid her no mind; I need to concentrate.

I was not so good at turning than Dash was. She had a few body lengths ahead of me for the first half of the race, but at one turn I took the inner curve and got ahead by about 10 feet. It was at the turn before the straightaway when she caught up to me. We were nose to nose and Rainbow Dash saw we were only a few miles away from finish. She turned to smirk at me, and then looked forward again. She put her front hooves out in front of her, and I could see the familiar Mach

cone forming; the sure sign on an oncoming Rainboom.

“And Dashie looks to be preparing to do her Sonic Rainboom!” Pinkie yelled. I heard everypony cheering, and it sounded like a much louder crowd than it should have been. I copied Rainbow’s pose, and I too started to have a Mach cone around me! I heard Pinkie gasp aloud. “Whoa! What is Shadow Blitz planning?” I wasn’t gaining much more speed than Rainbow was, so I did the first thing that came to mind: Spinning! As I spun, I saw a large Rainbow explosion, and heard Pinkie screaming, “A SONIC RAINBOOM! I DON’T THINK THAT SHADOW COULD CATCH UP!”

She was wrong. My body started to feel very tightly compressed, and the next thing you know, I was shooting out to the finish line like Rainbow Dash. I looked behind me, and while the image was distorted due to me still spinning, but I saw a huge bluish-black, ring-shaped explosion behind me, and a spiraling line of darkness trailing behind me. The next thing I knew, something flashed in my face and I crashed into a cloud with Rainbow Dash right next to me.

I regained my senses after a while, and saw that the flash emanated from a camera at the finish line. It was perfectly positioned at the finish line, to show who won the race. Pinkie took it into her balloon and floated back into town. Rainbow and I looked at our handiwork: two dissolving explosions, one of dark blue, black, and silver, and the other with the entire color spectrum.

Rainbow Dash commented, “I never thought you had it in you, Shadow! That was an intense race! You really gave me a run for my bits!”I nodded in agreement. I was wheezing hard as my asthma made me unable to speak, and made it hard to breathe. “Let’s go (huff) see the (huff) results.” I said, flying slowly down to the ground to meet the other ponies. I saw the rest of the Mane 6, all three Cutie Mark Crusaders, and some other background ponies that I recognized, like Ditzy Doo/Derpy Hooves and Dinky, Lyra and Bonbon, and Cheerilee and some of her students.

“Let’s see that photo finish!” Pinkie exclaimed, as Twilight magicked the camera to project an image onto a large screen set up nearby. Rarity asked aloud, “Where?” I believe she thought Pinkie meant the fashion pony. There was a collected gasp, and I turned my head to the screen. My jaw dropped. I had...won. I won by a whole head! Rainbow Dash was at my side at the start of the finish line, but I had crossed the tape.

I looked to Rainbow Dash who cantered over and said, “I hate to say it but, you win. It was a good race.” She looked very downcast. It was well known to me that she hated losing. I decided to try to cheer her up, “Don’t worry about it. We should race again some other time! It was fun! Maybe you’ll win the next one.” She smiled about the idea, hugged me (SQUEE) and walked over to talk to her friends.

I felt a poke at my leg. I looked down and saw Scootaloo, a little skeptical. “Hello there, Scootaloo.” I said, trying to avoid the fact that I just beat her hero in a race. “You cheated.” She said, plainly and emotionless. I was confused. “What? I didn’t use magic. Twilight would have noticed.” The filly retaliated. “There is NO WAY you could have beat Rainbow Dash! She is the fastest and coolest pegasus in all of Equestria!”

I decided to mess around with her a little bit. "Perhaps I’m not from Equestria.” I said, leaning towards her.

Scootaloo took a step back, a look of wonder on her face. I continued, “Maybe, the place where I’m from sees me as the fastest and coolest. In fact, there is fanpony just like you that would have reacted the same way if Rainbow Dash beat me in a race.”

The orange filly’s eyes widened. “That’s....pretty cool.” She said after some consideration. “Maybe you and Rainbow Dash could become racing partners and both become awesome Wonderbolts!” I could tell I was actually winning her over. “Maybe so,” I replied, smiling down at her. “And maybe you’ll be able to join us when you’re older.” She smiled to me and ran over to Sweetie Belle (who waved at me) and Applebloom. The farm filly looked to me and smiled, one which I returned.

“You’re very good with foals, I see.” I jumped at the sudden break in my silence. Rarity giggled and said, “Sorry about that. I didn’t mean to scare you.” She looked to the fillies. “Normally they’re little darlings, but they can get quite rowdy and not listen to you. The way you handled Scootaloo and brought her to your favor was impressive. She’s normally pretty stubborn, like Rainbow Dash. “I smirked at the remark. “There should really be more stallions like you in Ponyville.” Rarity said stepping towards me, but then she looked down, blushing. It took me a while to get what she was saying to me, that she was kind of flirting with me. I looked down and felt my cheeks heat up a bit.

“So...” I said, breaking an awkward silence. “What’d you think of the race?” She looked up, and seemed grateful for a change in subject. “It was quite the show, Shadow! What do you call that?” I was clueless for a second. “Call what?”

She laughed and pointed at the sky, where there were faint traces of the Sonic Rainboom, and my version of it, side by side. “Your ‘Rainboom’ was spectacular! I’ve never seen anything like it! Well, except for Rainbow Dash's, but you're was...different.” “Thanks, Rarity.” I smiled, truly grateful for the compliment. “When did you learn to do that?” She queried.

Honestly, I wasn’t expecting that question. “I saw Rainbow Dash put her hooves in front to gain speed and form that mach cone around her. I did the same, but I didn’t get the mach cone as a result. I started spinning to gain speed, and... voila! My very own... Shadow Blast!”

Rarity was going to say something when we heard a loud EEEEEEEEKK!!!!! emanating from the Everfree Forest. The Mane 6 (Fluttershy absent), Dusk Star, Fire Storm, and myself galloped as fast as we could to the source.

The Prince Alicorn of Awesome?

“Hey! Wake up!” I felt somepony nudging my shoulder, trying to shake me awake. I opened my eyes slowly and saw Rainbow Dash looking down at me. Then I saw I was on the floor. The pegasus started laughing at me, then said, “You’re really funny, you know that? “ Then Rarity entered my room, “Rainbow Dash, is he awake yet?” “Yes, I’m awake Rarity. What do you guys want?”

“The princesses have their day filled with audiences with foreign diplomats, and have given us a day off.” Rarity said.

I got up onto my hooves, and started walking in the hallway. “Hey! Shadow!” I turned and saw Raziele calling me over. He said, “The Princesses wish for you, JUST YOU, to join them for breakfast. Your friends will be eating with the Elements ponies. Our Majesties just want to talk to you.”

I nodded my thanks and followed him to a grand dining room. I entered the room, and saw that the two royal Princess and the Royal douche-bag himself, Prince Blueblood were eating at a long table. He was giving me some not-so-friendly looks that I didn’t appreciate, so I decided to try and ignore him. I sat down, and was brought a breakfast of pancakes and berries. I magicked a fork and knife, and started eating. When we were all finished, Blueblood got up, as to leave, but Celestia spoke up, “My dear nephew, you must stay here. Your presence is requested for this meeting.”

He was about to say something, but he sat down, and we started business. “So, Shadow, or would you prefer Luke?” She asked me. “Shadow would be a more preferable title, seeing as Luke isn’t really a pony name.” I answered her.

Celestia nodded in acknowledgement and said, “While you are at the moment free to roam about in Canterlot for the day, as my sister and I are quite busy, there is the matter of how everypony will assume you are some kind of relative of ours. The pony-folk are only aware of Cadence as the only other Alicorn.”

I nodded, not really sure what she was getting at. “I understand that, Princess, but what does it mean?” I asked.

“You shall be made a Prince for the whole time of your residence in Equestria.” She said casually. I could see Blueblood looking slightly miffed at the idea. “But... but Auntie!” The two sisters looked at the unicorn with questioning glares. “He’s an alien! What good reasons do have we to crown him? He involves himself with those ruffians that ruined last year's Gala!”

Celestia was taken aback, surprised at her kin's resentment, and was about to speak, but Luna was first to respond, “The human race is actually quite as, or even more, intelligent than most ponies in our own realm. If you just stopped acting like a royal brat and learn from us, you may actually be worthy of taking the throne in the future!” Luna was obviously mad at Blueblood (I mean, who wouldn’t be. I’d hate to have such a snob for a cousin). "Also, those 'ruffians' are national HEROES." Blueblood couldn't help but tremble as Luna just started piling it on. "If it weren't for them, none of us would not be here today." She paused to collect herself. "To add to the answer of your query of Shadow's coronation, it is because so he can blend in, and also fulfill a certain... role in Equestrian history and society." Celestia glared at Luna when the latter said "...role in history." Was there something they weren't telling me? Tension began to build in the room, and it looked like Bluebood was about to tear up from Luna's loud lecture.

There was an awkward silence, and I spoke up. “To be honest, Princess, I don’t think I’ll can handle being royalty.” I said, and Blueblood perked up. “See that? The human himself doubts his ability to be a Prince!” Luna glared at him to be quiet. “However,” I continued. “I will be most willing to learn, help, and attend to any royal duties that so fit under my abilities.” Celestia smiled. “Then it is settled. Under the light of the golden, radiant sun,” “And under the luminous, mysterious moon and stars,” Luna added. Then in unison, the two sisters proclaimed, “And by the powers of the Regents of the Sun, Moon, and Heavens Above, we now dub you as Prince Shadow Blitz!” I watched as the room darkened, and smalls stars, a small sun, and a small moon began fly towards and orbit around me. Their speed began build, and soon, I was surrounded by magic. But this magic was extraordinary, it was a mystic power, and it took my breath away as I saw images of Equestria and its corresponding celestial bodies in my mind. It was amazing. The "Cosmic Coronation" began to fade away, and the room came back into focus. It took me while to catch my breath and find words.

I nodded humbly, gratefully accepting the title. “Thank you, your Majesties. I will not fail you; I will do everything in my power to keep Equestrian society and history safe, and protect it from any means of harm..” (I've really got to stop speaking so formally). On the inside, I was jumping and partying like Pinkie Pie on a double dose of sugar rushes. I bowed and left the dining room, then went to my own room. “WOOOOHOOOO!!!!!!!” I yelled at the top of my lungs whilst jumping on the bed. Suddenly, Raziele appeared at my balcony window. I stopped acting like a foal, and let him in.

“So I hear you’re the new Prince.” He said, impressive. “YupYup! I said, using a catchphrase that I only use when extremely happy or excited. “Does this mean I have to bow down to you?” He asked, not joking at all. My attitude sobered a bit. “No.” I answered. “Though I may be titled as temporary Prince of Equestria, though I may be an Alicorn, I do not wish to be bowed to. I simply wish to be treated like any other pony.” Raziele snickered. “For a normal pony, you certainly talk like a Prince.” I heard the door open, and saw Twilight Sparkle enter. “I heard that Princess Celestia made you Prince.” I nodded to confirm the rumor. “Does news around here travel that fast?” I asked. The purple pony nodded, and giggled a little. “Luna told me to give this to you. Said you might need it.” She levitated a small cloth pouch. I heard a metallic clinking sound from it. I looked inside, and saw about 100 golden bits. “Wow! Thanks, Twi! And Luna, I suppose.” We heard Rainbow Dash calling to her out in the hallway.

She turned to leave, and then the pegasus guard turned to me. “Celestia said there may be a battle on the horizon. She told me it was best that I train you.” Battle? WHAT? I JUST GOT MADE A PRINCE, I DON'T WANNA GO AROUND STARTING WARS! But no matter how much my mind yelled, I still said,“Right, so...when do we start?” “Tomorrow morning. At dawn. Sleep early. I’ll really get you back for kicking that flowerpot onto my head.” And with that, he flew off. I was pretty much screwed. I decided to get out of the castle and rid the ideas of rigorous training from my mind. Sure, I’ve had my fair share of training in martial art for half of my life, but this was different. I was a pony. I didn’t even know that they could have wars in Equestria! I began to walk and think, paying no mind to wher I was going. Violence in Equestria of all places. Why would there be a battle/war? Seriously, this is a world of FRIENDSHIP, and freakin' ELEMENTS OF HARMONY.

I found myself deep in thought, and when I looked up, I was in a market. How did I end up here? “Shadow!” I heard two voices calling me from behind. I turned, and saw Dusk Star and Fire Storm galloping towards me. “We thought you abandoned us!” They said when they caught up, out of breath. “Um...” Fire Storm started. “Why is everypony bowing?” And truth be told, all ponies in the market was bowing to me. I didn’t like it. “Celestia made me a Prince. It’s so I can kinda ‘explain’ me being an Alicorn.” I whispered to her. I don't even know how they all found out so fast, but I was starting to feel uncomfortable about it. I actually heard somepony say quietly, "Who is he? Is he royalty?"

“Uh...at ease everypony. I’d rather you didn’t bow to me.” I said, hesistantly. Some did, but bowed down again. I asked again. They still didn’t rise. I was starting to get irritated. I was about to yell something, when I heard another voice behind me say, “Shadow, look.” I turned and saw Princess Luna, and saw my two companions were bowing. I bowed to Luna as well.

“Please rise. Like Prince Shadow Blitz, I do not like being bowed to.” She said. The ponies around us rose, then continued on with daily business. “Sorry. Why don’t you like them bowing to you, Shadow?” Luna asked.

“I just don’t like all the attention.” I answered with complete honesty. 'I also feel uncomfortable with all of the attention.' She said. I noticed her mouth didn’t move. She “spoke” again, ‘Wierd, I am able to communicate with only Celestia telepathically. The fact that you can hear me is... intriguing. We willll have to discuss this later.’ I was listening intently, not paying attention to anything else but Luna. I saw a brown hoof wave across my face. “Hey Shadow! Are you and Luna in a random staring competition or something?” Dusk shouted in my face. Luna giggled as I pushed him aside.

“Why are you here Princess?” I asked. She took out 3 small black devices, and gave one to each. It was our phones! “The Moon Princess said, “Twilight wanted to give these to you. She said you knew what they were and what they did.”She added. “Are they yours?” We nodded. “Do you mind telling me their functions?” She asked. I looked around, as many ponies were still watching us, and it was kind of awkward. “That would have to wait another time, you Majesty.” I answered. “Perhaps tonight?”

Dusk, Fire, and (for some reason) Pinkie (OUT OF NOWHERE) went, “Aaaawww. He asked her on a date!” Pinkie began singing, “Luna and Shadow, sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G!” She ran off laughing. Fire shook her head, “I’ll never be able to understand that pony.” Nobody and nopony ever will. And we all know it. “It’s time I had returned to the castle now.” Luna said after a moment. “Celestia will get mad if I don’t accompany her in today’s audiences.” She teleported off and we started walking around.

Occasionally, we’d spot one of the Mane 6, and then move on to looking around at the busy market. We passed by a small stall, in which stood a lonely looking unicorn merchant. He had a light blue coat, and had a whitish-gray mane and tail. He wore blue glasses, and constantly checked his blue watch. I could tell his favorite color was red by all of this (I’m kidding, just to let you know). There was a sign above him that said, “CRE8’s Creations! The Best in Canterlot!” It was clear the store wasn’t a very popular one. “Excuse me,” I began. The merchant pony looked up at me. “What is it that you sell, sir?”

He began to smile. “My name is CRE8! I make and sell only the most beautiful and creative art pieces in Canterlot! Each are carefully hoof-crafted by your truly, with some magical aid, and make wonderful gifts for anypony of any age!”

“Do you have any works that depict the moon?” I asked. Fire looked at me incredulously, like WHAT THE BUCK? YOU’RE WASTING MONEY ON THIS WHEN I COULD GET FANCY CLOTHES FOR MYSELF? But Dusk knew what I had planned. He nodded of approval, and we both pushed Fire behind us, a little further away from the stall.

CRE8 escorted us through his stall, which held many a breathtaking work of art. “So, I take it ‘CRE8’ isn’t your real name.” Dusk said, still looking around at the art.

There were paintings of course, but of marvelous detail. There were sculptures, but not just out of marble. There were statues of many different ponies and creatures, etc, made of brass, silver, gold, and even glass. “Yes. My real name is Brush Strokes. CRE8 is a kind of stage name. Like that famous DJ... but her name escapes me. I know her stage name is DJ-Pon3. That’s where I got the idea for my name.”He blushed at this. “You mean Vinyl Scratch?” I asked. “And why are you blushing?”

“Let’s just say I have a little crush on her.” The artist replied. “Little?” I heard Dusk over my shoulder. He pointed at something. “Then explain this statue of a silver and golden DJ Table with a label saying ‘For DJ-Pon3?’” “Fine,” Brush admitted. “I’ve fallen quite hard for her. Quite like the Prince here has fallen hard for the Princess.” Dusk and Brush started laughing, and then immediately stopped when they saw I was completely serious. I sighed and responded, “I just find it polite to give her present for bringing us here, and her giving me the title of Prince.”

“Whatever floats your boat, Romeo.” Brush said. “Here you go. This might win her heart over.” “I’m not trying to court her or anything like that! I’m....whoa.” I looked at a large painting that Brush was pushing me to. It was beautifully painted, and depicted Princess Luna herself, by a glistening lake, looking up to the moon. It had a touch of Baroque art influence in it, especially the way the moonlight was the dominant light source, and the light was diagonally aimed at Luna and the lake.

I had only one word to describe it, “.....Wow.” CR38 had a smug look on his face. “Since it’s your first purchase, I’ll make the price 100 bits.” I checked the pouch that Twilight gave me earlier today. It held about 200 bits.

I shook my head. “No way, brony. That’s too much. 50 bits.” Brush scoffed. “You may be a Prince, but I’m a king when it comes to negotiating what I want. I’ll make 90 bits.” “No deal. 60 bits.” “85” “70” “78” “72” We argued over a price for a while.

“You drive a hard bargain.” Brush said, slightly irritated. “How about 75 bits, and I include that glass bouquet of flowers for free.” He pointed at a vase next to the painting. They were pretty nice, and I decided it was worth it. “Fine. You’ve got a deal. 75 bits it is.” I paid him. He then turned to the painting, and I saw a bluish aura around his horn and the painting. He made it smaller, about 2x3 feet, and then made it disappear. He then made the glass bouquet disappear as well. Don’t worry, I’ve sent your items to your room in the castle.”I was trying to think how he knew where my room was. Unicorn magic, go figure.

Dusk and I thanked him, and walked out of the art stall. We saw Fire looking at some trinkets. I looked to Dusk, who shrugged. We approached her, and spent about 50 more bits on jewelry for Fire to make up for pushing her aside.

After our shopping spree, we decided to take a walk in the Cantelot Gardens, the one next to the palace. We bought snacks from vendors and decided to lie down in the open grass. “Can you believe it?” Dusk says. “First we’re college graduates, on our way to new lives. And now, we’re ponies. I’m a unicorn, Lara’s a pegasus, and Luke’s the Prince of Equestria!” He took a moment to be silent. “To think it only happened in less than a week.”

I pondered this for a while. We’ve stayed in Equestria about 3 or 4 days, and we, actually I, was the talk of the town. We had already made new friends! “I’m happy here.” Fire smiled. “I feel like I never want to leave.” We all shared this feeling. We wanted to stay in this utopia. We wanted to be away from the terrors of our own world. But a feeling in my gut told me that it probably would be possible for us to stay forever. They sky slowly started to turn orange and red, and Dusk piped up, “Hey Shadow.” “Yes?” My eyes were closed. He continued, “Don’t you have a date with Luna really soon?”

My eyes snapped back open. “Oh damn, I almost forgot!” I got up and started to fly away. I turned for a moment and shouted at Dusk, “And it’s not a date! She just wants to ask me stuff!” In the distance, Dusk heard Shadow, snickered, and said, “She’s probably going to ask him to room with her tonight.” Fire Storm joined him in laughter.

IT'S NOT A DATE!

I returned to my room to find that Brush Strokes actually did send my purchases to my room. The moon and lake painting was on my bed, and the glass bouquet was in a vase on a bedside table. I used magic to levitate them, and made for the balcony. Then I checked if I had my phone. Did you know ponies have pockets? Like how Pinkie somehow always takes out a cupcake out of nowhere when not even wearing saddlebags? Just like that.

Anyway, I took it out of its “pocket” and turned it on. It was surprisingly still at full battery. It had been out in the Everfree Forest for quite a while, and it was still good for use. I turned my attention back to going out to the balcony.

I saw Luna at her own balcony, waving at me. I teleported behind her. She stopped waving and tilted her head a little. She had no idea where I went.

“Boo!”” I said, taking advantage of her confusion. She jumped like I did when she first teleported to me, and turned to see me. “Revenge is sweet, isn’t it?” She said, smiling. I didn’t respond, just smiled back. “What’s that behind your back?” The Regent of the Moon asked me. I simply levitated the gifts from behind me, and her jaw dropped. She took the painting in her own magic and inspected closely. “Wow.” That was the only word that came out of her mouth for about a few minutes. I chuckled and responded, “That’s what I said.” She looked up to me (once again, I’m about Big Mac’s height. AKA I’m pretty damn tall), and approached as if to hug me, when “But wait, there’s more!” I was a pulling my Billy Mays impression to elevate the surprise. I levitated the glass bouquet in front of her, and her eyes seemed to glow in wonder of the beautifully detailed flowers.

She looked at me again, and said, “Go stand by the side of my bed.” “WHAT?” I asked. I was completely dumbfounded. “I don’t think I heard you right. Could you repeat that?” This time she demanded it, “Go stand by the side of my bed.” I opened her balcony window doors, and entered her room. It was dark blue, my favorite color. I stopped by her bed and turned to face her. Luna put the glass flowers on a dresser and placed the painting to lean against the wall. Then she took a running start at me.

I barely had enough time to react when I was tackled, actually glomped, onto her bed. “What are you doing?” I asked, kind of unsure what was going on. She got off me and hit my shoulder playfully and said, “I’m just hugging you. Don’t worry. It’s not like I was gonna...you know...” I came to my own conclusions about what she meant to say.

“So...” I was anxious to change the subject. “What did you think of the gifts?”

Luna laughed (She has a cute laugh; I like it) and replied, “Wasn’t hugging you enough?” She paused a moment here, then continued, “No one has ever been this thoughtful to me before. Except suitors. Were you trying to...” “What?” Realizing what she meant, I immediately responded, “Nononono. I was just being nice!” “For?” She was being inquisitive. “For bringing me and my friends here.” I finished. “I did?” She asked herself. “Yeah.” I confirmed. “You took some portal to my realm, visited me and my two friends, said you needed our help, then there was some blast from the portal you used, and you left us. Except you dropped a shoe in our world, which we touched, and it transported us here.”

The indigo-blue princess was contemplating a moment. “I remember now!” She exclaimed. She sat up, bouncing us up and down on the bed. “You and your friends were slightly drunk, right?” I laughed and confirmed her guess. “I made a right choice, then.” She continued. “In what?” Once again, I was clueless. “Choosing our heros.” “WHAT?!” “Just listen,” She demanded, and I did. “I’ve been having bad dreams of a kind of prophecy, that three ponies who aren’t really ponies save Equestria. But it never goes into detail. And it always ends up with darkness, and evil laughter. I have a sneaking suspicion of the culprit behind it.”

Now it was my turn to contemplate. My mind was running its gears into overdrive. It is certain that the three saviours were me, Dusk,and Fire. So what would happen to have us save the world? And who is the possible culprit? “But never mind about all that.” Luna snapped me out of my thought train. “You said you would teach me of your strange device.”

WHAT? My mind yelled. YOU JUST SAID THAT FRIENDS AND I WOULD SAVE EQUESTRIA FROM AN IMPENDING DANGER, AND YOU JUST CAST THE MATTER ASIDE? Whatever. She did ask about my phone in the first place. I gave her the same basic explanation I did to the Mane 6. When I got to talking about ther other functions of the iPhone in particular, Luna got pretty excited. Then the matter of the Internet came up. I explained how it was a kind of limitless archive of knowledge, ideas, and many other things that can be viewed and used at any time. Then my alarm, FOR SOME RANDOM REASON, started blasting the MLP:FiM theme song, AGAIN. She was very interested by this, and I was kind of reluctant at first, but ended up tellng her about the brony fandom. I told her about the episodes, the fanfics (Including Cupcakes, Rainbow Factory, My Little Dashie, and other stuff), the music created (lol dubstep), PMVs, and pretty much everything I could list off of Equestriadaily.com

I asked her how she and her sister knew about humans. They had some magic mirror that lets them peek into other dimensions and universes. They just happened to enjoy watching the human race develop. I was surprised that she didn’t know about bronies yet. Luna said she was more interested in humans than Celestia, so the former knew more about human cultures. Now back to the phone antics.

One super fun part was when we put on the camera app, and she saw herself in the phone. She was momentarily scared, took a pillow, and hid behind it. I was laughing on the outside, and dying of cuteness overload on the inside. Trust me, I almost had diabetus. I started to mess with her more and showed her an album that I made comprised of pictures of MLP stuff. Most of them were of Luna herself (My fave Non-Mane-6 ponies are Luna, then Celestia, then Derpy. Deal with it *shades*). She came out from behind the pillow and asked, “Why do you have so many pictures of me?”

I explained simply, “You’re my favorite pony outside of the main 6 characters.” At this, she hugged me again. “You’re not acting very princess-like, Luna.”

“That’s because it’s my room, DUH” She stuck her tongue out at me for emphasis. “I can act however I want. Ooooh. What this? What does NSFW stand for?” She was about to click it when I stopped her hoof. “No. Don’t. Even. Try. Please.” I scolded. The indigo-blue alicorn started using puppy dog-eyes on me. This tactic rarely works on me, and I continued unaffected. “So, one other thing that my particular phone do is let me play games.” Her eyes widened in excitement. “What kind of games?” And with that, we began with Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja. Then we started playing Temple Run (THAT’S RIGHT PEOPLE). Then she failed miserably against me in a game of Battleship.

We had such a fun time together playing all these games, when suddenly, a small notification popped up, “20% Battery Remaining.” I looked at it sadly. Luna saw that I was miserable, and said, “Let me try something.” I looked up at her. “Put your horn to your phone.” I touched it to my phone, then instinctively placed it where the plug for the charger goes. She had an idea, and I think it might work. “Think of lightning surging down from a cloud.” I closed my eyes as I did so. “Now imagine wielding it in your magic.” I did so again, and heard a slight crackling sound. I glanced and saw my horn covered electricity. I touched my iPhone, and electricity raced through the phone. After about a minute or two, another notification popped up, “Fully Charged.”

I looked to Luna in surprise, then looked back to the phone. The time read “2:47 AM.” We’ve been up for a long time. Luna laughed and said, “I’m usually the only one awake at this hour.” I chuckled along with her and replied, “Me too.”

She looked to me with a little confused look. I explained, “I would pull all-nighters a lot. Sometimes for no reason. Other times, to study for big exams. I would keep myself up by watching a lot of MLP episodes.” She nodded, then looked out into the night sky through her balcony window.

“I’m bored.” Luna said plainly. “Wanna go out? Not like a date, though.” I smiled and replied, “I would like that.” She’s being really straightforward. The show was wrong when they depicted her as quiet and socially awkward. Her horn started to glow, and the next thing we knew, we were just outside of the palace gates. We started walking in the dark, and I heard some kind of techno music. Luna pointed to a place with neon lights. "That looks fun!" (I'm still trying to get used to this new 'fun' Luna) It was just a door, which had stairs leading to a large lobby. There was a long line, and when the ponies there saw us, they started bowing. We told them not to bow, and continue their activities. Us two being royalty, a buff pony at a set of velvet ropes let us in without question, and nopony had a problem with it.

Techno/Dubstep was blasting from speakers all around the place. I could just see and electric blue mane at a turntable, talking to another pony. Then one pony next us yelled, “ROYALS!!!!” and the music stopped completely. Everypony in the club stared at us and bowed. Luna immediately responded, “There is no need to bow for us, my subjects. The Prince and I, just like all of you, are just here for some fun.”There was some murmuring, and the DJ (Obviously Vinyl Scratch) yelled through her microphone, “Alrighty then, now that we have some special guests, LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!” A new techno beat started playing, and we all started dancing to it.

After a while, I was forced to rest. Having asthma sucked, and I restricted me from doing a lot of things. I headed towards the bar. Surprisingly, I met Raziele sitting there. Unsurprisingly, I met Brush Strokes sitting next to him. “Hey there, Shadow.” Raziele called to me. “Aren’t you supposed to be asleep by now?” I was about to respond when Luna came behind me and said, “So this is where you went?” She asked me. She finally noticed Raziele, and waved to him. “P-Princess? What are you doing here?”Raziele asked as he noticed her. “I thought you would have noticed us when the music stopped, and somepony yelled out ROYALS.” I said. “As you can see, I’m drunk. My senses are completely dulled right now” He pointed out. “I’m probably not gonig to be so cheery in our training session tomorrow, Shadow. “ I nearly forgot about that.

Then Brush joined, “So how’s the date going, Shadow?” “IT’S NOT A DATE!” I immediately responded, causing both him and Raziele to laugh. I could hear Luna laugh behind me as well. We all spent the night drinking some hard cider and dancing to our hearts’ content. Then Vinyl told the crowd she was going to take a break. She cantered over to the bar and sat next to Brush, who looked like he was going to explode from excitement. She took off her trademark shades and set them aside.

I laughed at the artist stallion, and Luna asked why. I explained his crush for the DJ pony, and she laughed along with me, causing Brush Strokes to blush even more. I moved on over to the tired DJ who was drinking something other than cider, and told her, “Good crowd tonight, huh?” She almost spit out the alcoholic drink she was drinking, swallowed properly, then turned to me. “You’re the new Prince, right?” She asked. “That’s right.” I confirmed. “And you must be DJ-Pon3, AKA Vinyl Scratch. Just asking, is this the first time a royal member came to one of your gigs?”

She had a smug look as I said both her stage name and real name. “The one and only DJ-Pon3. But you can me Vinyl. And yes, this is the very first time I’ve ever had any royal members at a gig.” “That’s cool. How long have you been DJing?” I asked her. “Since I was about 9 or 10. I went to a mares’ academy, and was forced to play an instrument. I epically failed at the violin and accordion, and every single instrument.” She laughed a little, then continued. “I sneaked into the music room one day and see a turntable. The rest is history from there.” “That’s pretty cool. One of friends, actually is an artist. Not a musical artist, a painter/sculpture kind of pony. And he’s a pretty talented one, too.” I was talking about Brush of course. All the while, I was staring into those cool looking red eyes that Vinyl has. It’s very hypnotizing.

“Really? I’d like to meet him sometime, then.” She paid no mind to the fact that I was staring at her eyes. I snapped out of it. “He’s right here actually!” I announced. I turned Brush’s stool toward’s Vinyl, both of which were kind of surprised at.

“Vinyl, meet my friend Brush Strokes. Or should I say, DJ-Pon3, meet CrE8!” I introduced them. Brush began, blushing a little. “Um...Hi. I’m a big fan of your work.” Vinyl seemed a lot more excited to meet Brush than I thought she would. “Wait a minute. I recognize you! I see you in almost all of my Canterlot gigs!” She said, excited.

Brush nodded. He was still blushing at the fact he was meeting his crush. He was about to say something when the DJ cut him off. “Wait. You’re name is CrE8? As in the market artist?” The stallion nodded again. I finally backed off to join Raziele and Luna in more drinking. But I could still hear everything they were saying. “I LOVE YOUR ARTWORK!” I heard Vinyl say, quite loudly. Luna and I just laughed at the seemingly appropriate couple. I checked my phone again, and saw it was 5:20! Raziele saw it too, said quick good-byes, then returned to the castle. I was feeling very tired as well, and a headache was getting to me via all the hard cider.

I was starting to feel very woozy. I turned to Luna and was about to propose returning to the castle as well. But before a word was uttered, I blacked out.

Groggy Morning Dangers

I was running through a dark haze. “Dusk? Fire?” I caleld out to my friends. I was scared, and I needed someone to be there with me. I hate being alone. Then I saw a shadow in the distance. It looked like a unicorn, about my size. “Hello? Twilight, is that you?” I called out. The shadow extended a pair of big wings. An Alicorn? “Celestia? Luna?” I guessed. The shadow stepped forward, and I saw the scariest thing ever: Me. I was HUGE! I had to step back a bit. It was me, but somehow, it carried an evil aura. It’s eyes were dark as a void in space. His mane flowed along with an imaginary breeze, making it look like black and blue flames. It was cool, but scary all the same. “Like what you see?” It asked menacingly. I could feel my whole body shaking.“Welcome. To your future.” With that, my evil doppleganger leaped at me. I was too paralyzed in fear to move. I closed my eyes and braced for impact. Then, there was nothing.

~~~~~

I opened my eyes, to see that I was lying in bed. My head was turned, and I was looking out of the blacony window in my room in the castle. I sighed in relief. Just a nightmare, Luke. You’ve had worse. My headache from the previous night subsided but something felt wierd. I remember coming to when still at the club, and still dancing around like I was okay, and then drinking more, but that’s all I remembered. I tried to get up, but something prevented my from raising my body. I looked down at the covers. There was a huge, pony-shaped, breathing lump that was right next to me, and I could feel a head on top of my chest. It shifted a little, and some dark blue hair peeked out a little.

My eyes widened with uncertainty as I uncovered myself. Luna was snuggling against me, and her head was unconciously nuzzling me. WHAT THE BUCK HAPPENED LAST NIGHT? My mind was going crazy until I heard a voice in my head say, So you’re finally awake. It was Luna’s voice. It was just like the time she did so in the market the day before. Luna’s eyes opened, smiling up to me. Then she realized that she was cuddling me. She immediately pushed away. “Sorry.” She was blushing. I had no doubt I was blushing, too. “Hey, Shadow!” I heard a familiar voice call by the balcony. The balcony door opened and in entered Raziele. His eyes landed upon the princess next to me in bed. Before Luna or I could explain, the pegasus just started laughing his wings off. He sobered up after a while. “I needed that today after that harsh hangover. I came back to check on you guys, and I was passing you two in the hall. You didn’t even see me. I remember watching Shadow going into his room, then Luna sneaking in after.”

“I must confess,” I heard the indigo alicorn say. “I did sneak in. But I didn’t do anything! I was just too drunk to teleport, let alone walk, back to my own room, so roomed with you.” And then my day got even better. “Yo! Shadow!” Dusk Star entered the room. And like Raziele, he started laughing. “I KNEW IT!” I started refuting his ideas, but he kept insisting upon me and Luna as an item. With that, I got out of bed, cantered over to the unicorn, and bopped him of the back of his head.

“Luna? Where are you?” I heard Celestia’s voice nearby. All of us immediately turned extremely quiet, and Luna teleported, most likely to her quarters. Celestia peeked in my room a second after. “Pardon me, Shadow, but have you seen my sister?” She asked. We all shook our heads. She thanked us anyway and left. “That was close.” I said, lying back in relief. “Why are you still in bed?” Raziele asked. “Too busy snuggling?” Dusk joked. I shot him an glare, and he took as a message to leave, which he did with his eyes downcast. I could tell he was still laughing on the inside.

“You see Raze, I’m the kind of pony that hates waking up early. And it takes a while for me to get out of bed.” I responded. I’m always cranky. I’m not a morning person. Or pony. Neither is Zack. But Lara is definitely one. She would be awake an hour before us, cooking and cleaning at 7:00 even on a Saturday. “Let me rephrase.” Raziele had a serious look on his face. “Why are you still in bed when you know we have training to go through?”

“Oh.” I completely forgot. Curse these ponies, they cause me so much stress.“Let’s go.” He yanked off my bed sheets completely. He took my front leg, and started dragging me to the balcony. Once we got there, he stepped up onto the rail that bordered the balcony. “Join me up here, will you?” He said. I did so. It took a while, but finally I managed to balance myself on the rail. “Good.” Raziele commented. “At least you’ve got balance.” Then he looked straight into my eyes and gave me a mischevious smile. “Now let’s check reaction time.” With that, he shoved me off the railing casually.

Have you ever had a moment where you think and say something at the same time? Well this was one of those moments. What was I saying and thinking, you ask? This: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!!!!!!!!!!” The ground started to become closer with every breathe I took. Then I realized: I’m an Alicorn! Flap your darn wings! I willed my wings to extend. My descend slowed drastically. I started to glide in a straight line in the direction of Ponyville. I heard Raziele beside me, yelling. “Good job! Celestia said you might be a little rusty at this.” I smiled and nodded. “Where are we going?” I yelled back. He was about to respond when a voice yelled, “Did you two forget us?” I turned to my other side and saw Fire Storm and Rainbow Dash. “Oh...hey there Fire Storm.” Raziele greeted sheepishly. An idea popped in my head. Why was he being shy all of a sudden?

I gave sly smile to my soldier friend, and got a glare in return. I started laughing. “We need to head back!” Rainbow Dash finally spoke up. “Anypony up for a race?” Raziele and I were too tired to, and we both leaned left to casually glide back to the castle grounds. Fire was up for it. “What?”I looked at her incredlously. She just stuck her tongue out at me in response, and then started rubbing her front hooves together furiously. Shen then raised them to the sky. Rainbow was skeptical, so she went ahead at an average pace. I was going to ask her what she was doing when she turned and asked me, “Some juice, please?” I smiled and used my magic to summon lightning to strike her upraised hooves. I thought she was joking, so I made it miss her on purpose, but she flew right under the bolt at super-pony speeds and lifted her front hooves to it. Upon contact, her hooves erupted in flames.

“Whoa!” I was seriously scared by that. “Are you okay?” “Remember when I told Sweetie Belle about my Cutie Mark?” She asked. I nodded. “I just proved it to be true.” Before I could start lecturing her about how dangerous that was, and how close she to death or injury, she flew with top speed after Rainbow. As she flew, the fire spread all of her body, including her wings, mane, and tail. And like she described to Rarity’s sibling, she looked exactly like a flaming arrow. I must admit that it was SO AWESOME!!!!!

*Lara’s Perspective*

WOOOOOOOOHOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was cruising past Rainbow LIKE A FREAKING BAWWSSSS!!!!

I could feel the fire tickling my entire body, the wind flowing through my mane. When I passed by Rainbow, all I heard from her was, “Whoa!” I turned to see her right next to me a second later. “That’s pretty cool, Fire Storm!” I smiled at the compliment. I was racing and was being complimented by my favorite pony!

*Zach’s Perspective*

I saw something like a comet zooming towards my direction. I was in the Canterlot Gardens, right next to the castle. I was helping Twilight catalog some stuff, and we had Spike to help us as well. I wasn’t paying attention much, so, I had no idea what I was supposed to be doing.

“Dusk.” I heard Spike calling me. I turned to see him looknig at the same thing I was previously. “Is that comet? And what’s that behind it?” “WHERE?” Twilight ran in front of me with a magically levitation microscope. “That’s cool! That can’t be a comet. It’s too close to the ground. Wait a minute, that looks like...” She looked intently through the microscope. “GET DOWN!!!”

Spike, Twilight, and I were suddenly pushed back by a strong gust as Fire Storm and Rainbow Dash zoomed past. Then Rainbow stopped, and watched Fire go off into the sunset.I saw Raziele and Shadow Blitz coming behind her, who looked like they were arguing.

*Returning to default narration (Shadow’s perspective)*

"You like Fire Storm.” “No, I don’t. “ “Yes you do.” “No.” “Yes. “No!” “Just admit that you like Fire Storm and I’ll lay off.” “I don’t admit to false ideas.” “Dude, you became Fluttershy when you saw her. Explain that.” “I...I’m just not good with new ponies.” You’re a guard. You guard the princesses and escort them to foreign lands. You meet new ponies all the time. Your argument is now void. I win.” “No. You lose. I don’t like Fire Storm.” “Do you hear that, Raziele? Because I do.” “Hear what?” “THE OVERBEARING SOUND OF DENIAL. Ooh, the scary guard look, whatever shall I do?” “Stop assuming things, Blitz” “Start admitting things, Raze.”

We argued like that ever since Fire Storm and Rainbow Dash were out of earshot. For once, I could make fun of him in revenge of laughing at me this morning. I saw Dusk Star waving at me. He was standing next to Twilight (I was laughing on the inside. Twilight was Zack’s favorite pony, can't wait to see how that plays out). I was about to say something to him when I was cut off by Fire Storm’s crash. She crashed, laughably, into Raziele. When they fell to the ground by Twilight and Dusk, I started laughing at the pegsus duo. Rainbow Dash joined me, but probably just because she thought the collision was funny.

Rainbow and I landed next to Twilight, and soon enough, the rest of the Mane 6 had arrived for a little social gathering. I talked to Applejack and Fluttershy. I liked talking to Applejack a lot, mostly because of her accent. Also because I had a farmer’s background. We shared our ideas in growing and tending to gardens and whatnot. Fluttershy was, well... shy of course. She wouldn’t talk to me, probably because it was my phone that she was scared by in the Everfree. In the end, we got into a nice conversation about animals. I love animals, and even had a few pets in my youth, so I was glad to share my stories about them with Fluttershy. Suddenly, there was a loud blaring noise, like a call to arms. Raziele immediately stopped talking to us, and listened intently to the alarm. “That...does not sound good.”

~~~~~

Within a matter of minutes, we cantered the Royal Sister’s audience/throne room. The two Alicorn princesses were there, talking to each other sternly. They looked up to see us approach them. “Twilight,” Celestia began. “We have an emergency crisis on our hooves.” Before she could get into any more detail, Luna cut in. “There’s an Ursa Major on the loose. Not a Minor like that Trixie pony fled from, but a full grown Ursa Major. We’ve sent out soldiers, but there is to no avail. It seems to have special powers that they cannot get past.

I looked to Dusk. His eyes were wide with fear. I read a fanfic involving a magically powered U. Major, and how it destroyed all of Ponyville. It was one of those Grimdark stories that weren’t as bad as Cupcakes, but still had a mark on our brony minds. I take it he remembered reading it as well. “Dusk?” Twlight waved a hoof in front of Dusk’s scared face. “Dusk, are you in there?”

“Uh...” The unicorn started, then looked back with focus to Twilight. “How are we going to take it down if even the guards can’t take it?" Celestia and Luna looked to each other with extremely worried expressions. "We were hoping you three could help Twilight and her friends with the monster, supporting them whilst using the Elements of Harmony.The only problem is..." Celestia paused. Hooray for dramatic effects.

"What?" Twilight asked. "What's wrong Princess?" Luna answered for her sister, "The Ursa Major is making its way to you library home, Twilight, where the Elements are being kept." At this, the Mane 6 looked at each other with disbelief and horror. The only things that could help them save the world was the target of a strong, malevolent creature. "We'll..." Rainbow Dash began. Then she swallowed her anxiety, and said a little more confidently, "We'll do our best, Princesses! We WILL take down that monster!"

And with that, Celestia's horn lit up with magical aura, and a second later, we were outside Fluttershy's cottage, on the outskirts of Ponyville, at the edge of the Everfree Forest. 'Sorry,' I heard Luna say in my head. 'The Ursa's wierd power won't let us place you any closer to the Elements. Please, be careful, and may the odds be ever in your favor.'

We made our way into town, or at least, what was left of it. Only a few ponies were left, and they were the ones evacuating. Then, the ground shook underneath us, making us jump. We heard an evil laughter, which sounded eerily familiar to me. We turned and saw the Ursa Major: huge, purple, starry, and covered in menacing dark, shadowy armor. Riding on its helm was a pony, who was surrounded by a dark blue aura, and riding along the aura... were the Elements of Harmony.

Enter Meet-The-Villain and Almost-Killed Chapter Here

"Looking for these, I presume?" The dark antagonist asked, still laughing. Rainbow was the first of us to speak, "Who are you, and want do you want with the Elements of Harmony?" The former stopped laughing, and sneered down at us as she resonded, "My identity...is none of your business. Your Elements, on the other hand, have much greater importance, correct? I'm not here for the renowned Element Bearers, I'm here for them." She pointed a hoof towards me, Dusk, and Fire.

"What?" Twilight was astounded. "Why would they be so important to you?" The Ursa lowered its head, and we could see the trail of destruction behind it. The evil pony stepped off to confront us. "Their mere existence here interferes with my plans. And since I've got what I've came for, I'll just move along." She cackled, as she began to trot away from us.

Rainbow and Applejack, ever the persistent ones, ran after her. Before they could reach the evil pony, the dark aura surrounding her lashed out at them. It struck them hard, and sent them flying back towards us. If Twilight hadn't reacted quickly with her magic, the two ponies would have sustained great injury. The rest of us, as in me, Dusk, Fire, Rarity, Twi, and Pinkie, (Fluttershy was still very scared of the Ursa, and wouldn't budge) took a galloping dash towards the assailant. Then, the dark aura surrounding her began to swirl, and we (for some reason) stopped to watch what was happening). The cloud began circling the dark pony, and faster and faster until the dark aura disappeared, and the mysterious pony and the Elements of Harmony along with it.

"Why," Dusk began, "Did we just stop and let her go?" We all looked to him. "She just made off with the most powerful artifacts in the world, ad now we're powerless!" Twilight was about to retort when, "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!" We turned to see the Ursa in front of Fluttershy, its paws raised to attack. Rainbow Dash flew and pulled the shy pegasus just in time to avoid the falling claws.

"I-I-I t-tried everything," Fluttershy sounded near tears. "Pleading, petting, crying, but nothing calmed it down!" Rarity pulled her away to comfort her, while the rest of us sought to retaliate against the big, purple bear. "Is there anything you can do Twilight?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Like perform a spell to make it fall asleep?" I've never heard her that serious before. Twilight shook her head. "No Pinkie, that time was with a baby. I doubt my spells would work.

At this moment, three armored pegasi (probably from Canterlot) flew in to take charge on the Ursa. They flew at its side, but bounced off like flies off a window. "How're we gonna take it down without the Elements?" Applejack asked. "Leave it to us!" Fire Storm replied. Dusk and I looked to her as if she was insane. "C'mon! Now's our time to see what we can do!"

And so, she took off towards the head, avoiding the beast's swipes. I was completely taken by surprise by her new found bravery. Dusk shrugged and galloped towards the bear's feet. I followed, "Here we go!"

I flew up to meet Fire above the Ursa's back. "Alright, so..." She began. "How do we go about defeating a giant, magicallly inclined Ursa Major?" I facehoofed. "Ooooh, I've got it!" I'll distract him, and you and Dusk can force him back into the forest!" I was beginning to get frustrated, seeing as I abandoned Dusk below the belly of the beast. Fire Storm rose her front hooves up to the sky, and upon instinct, I made lightning strike them. Her body, once again, became engulfed in fire. She flew towards the head and began to fly circles around it. I could see Rainbow joining her, but flying in the opposite direction.

"That..." I said, as I began to see what Fire was trying to do. "Was a pretty smart idea." Now there were two trails of light for the Ursa's eyes to follow: one rainbow, and one firey. I could hear Dusk far below me, and I dashed to meet him. He was right under the long tail. "Just wait, I'll get Applejack to help you here. I teleported next to Twilight and the farmer. "Applejack, can you go help Dusk, by the tail?" "Gotcha!" The earthpony galloped away. I saw Rarity still comforting the seriously upset Fluttershy. "Hey Twilight," The unicorn looked at me, a look of worry on her face. "Where's Pinkie?" She pointed her hoof to a third fast moving trail around the Ursa's head, a completely pink trail. "Just Pinkie being Pinkie," Twilight said. "She modified one of her flying machines to go super fast, and is using it to help Rainbow and Fire Storm." I stared incredulously at the pink trail; I knew there was a reason why she's my favorite pony.

"Twilight, I need your help." I asked. She tilted her head, asking why. "Can you conjure lightning?" I asked. She nodded. "Alright, you see that star on the Ursa Major's head?" She looked to it, nodding in understanding. "On my mark, we will both hit that star with lightning. The bear will be stunned and too dizzy to get up, as it was being confused by Pinkie, Rainbow, and Fire Storm. Then Applejack and Dusk will pull, both magically and physically, the tail, and make the bear fly back, deep into the Everfree, okay?" "I'm ready, then. On your mark?" She responded.I nodded this time. We both looked up to see a huge purple paw looming over us. I tackled Twilight out of the way, and we saw the paw hit ground, causing a mini-earthquake around us. We looked up to the bear, and saw that it was beginning to stagger, since it was so dizzy trying to follow the trails. "Now, Twilight!" At that moment, we both cast our spells and two powerful lightning bolts simultaneously hit the star on the bear's forehead. And with that the bear swayed a bit, then fell to ground, leveling two houses in the process. Then, Dusk's magical aura enveloped everything but the tail, which was being tugged hard on by Applejack. Twilight and I teleported over and helped pull the tail. Dusk then released the bear and the three of us released, causing a comical catapult effect, sending the Ursa flying away over the Everfree, its roar echoing back to us.

It was exhausting, holding back the tail of such a huge, heavy creature. I was sweating hard!. I saw the Mane 6 gather with us, and Fire also joined the group. "Good.. job...everypony." Fire and Rainbow were completely tuckered out. We started trotting for the library, Rarity and Fluttershy behind us. The library was almost completely destroyed! Twilight screamed, "NONONONO! My books!" She went inside to pickup whatever had survived. "Good thing is in Canterlot with my parents. He won't have to worry about seeing all this." She added, very stressed at the sight.

"Yeah, at least he's alright and..." Fire Storm began, before falling out cold. "Wow," Dusk laughed tiredly, "she must be ex-" then he fell out cold, too. The Mane 6 looked at us with great concern. "It's okay," I answered them. "We're all just so...so..." And with that, I blacked out as well.

(A/N: Whoa...that's a lot of commas in this one)

The Dark Mare's Maze Part 1

(AN: On a vacation in Canada, in a hotel a few blocks from Niagra Falls. Also, the folks went out to the casino, leaving me free to use the laptop. Keep in mind, I'm writing this from scratch. Why? Because I can. Also, be warned of random cutting from setting to setting. My mind kept wandering.)

I opened my eyes to a shadowy corridor. There were doors to either side of me, and torches that barely helped to light up the path. It was cold, and I could see my breath in front of me. I didn't seem to be injured, but was nonetheless disoriented. Where in Equestria was I?

I started walking forwards, but was met with a stone wall within 10 seconds. The same result when I walked the other way. So, I was stuck, and the doors on either side wouldn't budge. I put an ear to the door on my left, and heard a soft clopping sound (As in a pony walking, not the other kind). It began to get closer to the door.

I put my ear to the other door, and got the same results; a pony or hoofed creature making its way towards me. Soon enough, I could hear their breathing without having to strain my ears. "Hello?" I called, scared that one of those creepy monsters from Amnesia would pop out of nowhere. "Shadow? Is that you?" I heard a familiar voice call me. "Fire Storm! It's me!" I yelled back, desperate for some company. The door to my left opened to reveal the pegasus mare, her expression the same as mine: scared and confused. Then the other door opened. "Guys? Is that you?" Fire and I turned to see a very scared looking Dusk Star. The poor unicorn looked like he had seen death, and was still running from it.

We group-hugged, and looked around us. "Both ways are a dead end," I said, breaking the silence. "There's no way to-" Before I could finish, a huge tremor shook the ground and walls around us. We clung onto each other for dear life, unsure what was happening. I felt a faint breeze coming from behind us. Dusk broke off and began walking towards the source, Fire and I trailed right behind him. Where there was once a wall, stood a huge two-door entrance. It was lit faintly by two torches that held blue fire. Fire tried peeking through the crack between the doors when WHOOSH! they opened wide and a unknowable force pulled us in.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back in Ponyville...

"Are they gonna be okay Twilight?" Pinkie Pie asked, a concerned expression on her face. Fluttershy calmly went up to the three unconscious ponies and put a hoof on their necks, checking their pulse. "They're still alive, thank Celestia." She confirmed, and began to tear up. Rarity went to comfort the shy pegasus. "It's okay dear, they're probably too exhausted from fighting the Ursa, remember?" The fashionista said, stroking the pink mane as an attempt to bring up her friend's spirits up. "I hate to burst your bubble there, Rarity." The aforementioed pony looked up and saw Twilight using a spell on Prince Shadow. "They have fell asleep, but their dream isn't normal. They're experiencing the same dream, seeing everything all together. And it's all too real." The ponies just looked at the purple unicorn, not really understanding. She rolled her eyes and explained, "They're all in a dream powered by some strong dark magic, and if they get hurt or die in that dream, they might not wake up. EVER." A chill went down all six mares' spines as Twilight finished explaining.

BLAM! A burst of magic exploded next to them, and in which revealed Princess Luna, her eyes filled with concern and anger. She approached the group of ponies, "How are they doing?" Luna asked, her eyes looking at each of the fallen ponies. "Their alive, Princess. But..." Twilight began, not knowing how to say it. "Somepony has meddled with their minds." Luna finished Twilight's conclusion. Luna approached Shadow's limp body, and aimed a spell at his head. After a few seconds, she said, I'll have to take all three to Canterlot. I'll meet you there when you've all recuperated." She teleported away, the three unconscious ponies flashing away with her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back in the Royal Canterlot Palace...

Celestia was just about finished her daily audiences and political cases and requests, and was about to close the court when Luna flashed in with three limp ponies. The Princess on the Moon had tears running down her cheeks. "Celly," She began, beginning to let out a few sobs. "We have a big problem." The elder sister finally recognized the three bodies as those of Dusk Star, Fire Storm, and Prince Shadow Blitz.

Celestia called for several unicorn guards to bring the three bodies to the Palace Infirmary. She could see how Luna's gaze followed the three ponies being drifted away on rolling beds, and how her eyes lingered mostly on Shadow Blitz. Luna looked to her sister, and ran into her embrace. They were scared, and only hoped that the prophecy they learned wasn't mistaken.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I looked around to where the mysterious force dragged us to. Dark walls surrounded us, and a single path led forward and to a right turn. I always hated mazes. I swear I could hear evil laughter in the air, but it could've been my imagination. We began walking and made the turn. The path was much wider, and better lit by more blue torches. "I hate to say it guys," Dusk began, "But I'm pretty damn scared." I responded, "Aren't we all brony?" We all gave a weak chuckle. Then Fire looked to me and Dusk, smiled and said, "Don't worry, as long as we're together, we'll be fine. So, let's put our best, bravest hoof forward, together!" We all put our right hooves forward, when I thought, "Hey haven't I seen this situation before?"

Suddenly, a strong gust of wind blew our way, and then, WHOOSH! more walls of darkness came between the three of us, branching our maze into different paths, just like the Mane 6 against Discord. "I really should have seen this coming." I said, facehoofing. "Don't worry!" I heard Dusk off to my left. "We'll just find our own ways out of this crappy maze." I laughed at his remark. "Thanks, Dusk. I needed that one joke today." I heard nothing in response. "Dusk?" I called. Still no response.

It appeared that they had already went ahead, and began to walk my own path. After 10 minutes of uneventful walking around, I started complaining. "Stupid Evil Mare pony, stupid maze, stupid exercise...STUPID FREAKING BORING MAZE!" I started yelling out of pure paranoia. "Hehehe, boring you say?" I heard the evil mare's voice say. I shook it away out of anger and made my next turn into a huge room brightly lit by a huge chandelier. The walls closed loudly behind me, almost trapping my tail. I looked around the room; it was covered in blood and pony skeletons and rotting corpses. I saw a dark figure in the middle of the room turned away from me. It raised its head, revealing a horn. "Yo Dusk, is that you?" Then its wings began to extend. "Umm...Luna?" I guessed. It began to turn, and I could see it was almost covered in spiked armor, most of it was covered in blood. The creature then smiled, and spoke in a familiar voice, "Like what you see?" I immediately recognized that voice, and finally recognized the creature. It was the nightmare apparition I had, and now it was here, AND READY TO KILL ME. He lunged at an alarming speed, and once again, I couldn't sit idly, yet couldn't move at all. I looked up to see him before we made contact, and knew I was in for the fight of and for my life. "Oh...buck me." I said before we collided.

DMM Part 2: Rise and Return

(A/N: Sorry about the long wait for an update! I worked on some of this in school after PSATs, so it may sound a bit rushed. All in all, enjoy reading!)

I opened my eyes, and saw the shadow-me frozen in midair. It was merely inches away from my face, ready to gouge out my precious innards in the name of evil. I took a step back from the petrified enemy. Wait, how is it that I can still move? I thought to myself. I asked to nopony in particular, “What the buck is going on?” In response, I could hear an innocent giggle that bounced about the room. I felt shivers go down my spine and I stood completely still when, “BOO!” yelled Pinkie Pie OUT OF NOWHERE! I jumped about ten feet in the air, and my wings were glued to the sides of my body (Flutterscared). I’m pretty sure I yelped out of fear as well.

“You’re really easy to scare, Shadow!” said a certain pink, curly-maned party pony. I stared, incredulously at the pink marvel standing before me, laughing at my little “episode. How in Equestria was she here? I queried my own mind, whom of course, did not know the answer. “Pinkie, how are-“ I began before she started rambling, as usual. “Well apparently some evil pony is messing with your dreams and I was really, really, REALLY worried about you. So then I snuck out of Twilight’s house and got into this creepy little dream of yours to help!” She said with only one noticeable breath.

“You did this?” I pointed to my frozen enemy. Pinkie shook her head, no. “I can’t have possibly done that, I don’t know magic!” She explained. And yet she’s here somehow? “So how are you helping me again?” I asked. As a response, she walked over to the shadow-me and took off its armor. As she laid each piece on the ground, they melted. Then, she reached into her mystery pocket and handed me a whole set of dark blue armor.

“Where did you get the armor of one of Princess Luna’s guards?” I studied it. It was in great condition, and was made out of a very resilient metal. It would take only something as strong as the Princess’ magic to even dent it. Pinkie giggled and answered, “Nope! Spoilers! Can’t tell you, otherwise the writer will figure out what chapter to put it in context, and it might confuse the audience.”

Somewhere in America, a young man in front of his computer facepalmed.

“Audience? Writer?” I was confused. “What are you talking about?” To answer this question, she forcibly put my armor on for me. It was the perfect fit; How did Pinkie find this? “Nope! Like I said no spoilers! I can’t let his few readers learn about the upcoming bat-umm….Ba...BAKING COMPETITION! Yupyup, that should work for now, I can't let you know what's coming up.”

Now I was getting really confused. “Pinkie! Tell me what’s going on?” Pinkie looked nervous now, stepping back. “Oops, said too much!” She smiled and continued. “I gotta go before we break the script and the author rages ‘cause of me.” With that, she vanished.

I felt my eye twitch with minor annoyance. “PIIIIIIINNKIEEEEEE!” I yelled, but I knew she couldn’t hear me. I felt a strong wind blow through the room, and I watched as my adversary unfroze and pounced onto the spot where I was minutes ago.

“How did you-“ It snarled before I took a head-first tackle at its gut.

TEN VIOLENT MINUTES LATER

We stood opposite of each other, both of us battered and exhausted. Without his special armor, he wasn’t as much of a threat. But despite my strong Guard Armor, he could still find weak points and have effective results.

I took another head-first charge at him, and he reciprocated. Seconds before we collided, I spun around and BUCKED THE HELL OUT OF HIM. I turned and saw him staggering back in pain. Thank you, Applejack! I charged at him, an aimed an upraised hoof towards his horn. This attempt failed, and the douchebag noticed me charging at him. Evil-me lowered his horn and shot a strong beam of magic at me.

My back met the wall with a hard SLAM! I tried to get back up, but my pained wings and spine hurt too much. My evil adversary cantered towards me, his deadly intent clear. I started to feel paralyzed; as if my fear and pain took over my body. That was until, thank Luna, a whole in the ceiling appeared and dropped out two familiar ponies.

Dusk and Fire Storm weree "pony-piled" on top of Shadow-Me. They got up immediately after realizing on whom they landed. The evil clone stood back up, a bit dazed. I took advantage of this by rushing at him one final time. He saw me again, and shot another beam at me. I dodged and sent my own beam, one composed of lightning magic. The clone was the one to hit the wall. He was still conscious when I went to check to him. He couldn't move; If he could he would have by then. So, I did what first came to mind: I swung a powerful hoof and broke his horn.

His scream of agony echoed throughout the room, and his body began to glow. It was so bright, the three of us had to look away to avoid being blinded. "NOT THE LAST!" I heard him yell before a small explosion shook the ground beneath us. We looked back and saw only a small, black scorch mark on the wall and floor where my clone had once stood.

I turned to my reunited allies, and saw that they were quite exhausted and hurt as well. Fire began, "Wow, your problem seemed a lot worse then ours." I tilted my head. Dusk continued, "We met back up at an intersection in the maze. Then the paths behind us closed. We walked together for a while, then out of nowhere," He showed his hooves, which were covered in scratches and bloody bite marks. "Shadowy dog creature things came out of nowhere and attacked us." I looked to Fire, who was shaking a little, and finally noticed her wing had a bite mark as well.

It was then a huge light began to shine and envelop the room once more. My sight was now filled with darkness again. I could hear voices. A posh-ish voice, "Girls! Quickly! I think they're waking up!" Another voice, a quieter one, saying "Oh, m-my. I hope they're okay." I slowly opened my eyes, too see where in Equestria I was.

Instead I find a huge pink fluff of mane in my face. "GOOOOD MOOOORNING!!!!!" Pinkie Pie greeted loudly. Now, I was awake. I turned my head and saw a Fire and Dusk to my right; we were in a hospital beds. "Pinkie! Calm down, you're scaring them!" I heard Twilight's voice reprimanding the party pony.

I was quite happy to see that the all of the Mane 6 had come to see us. But why were we in a hosptal? I heard Fire start to talk, she sounded a little hoarse (LOL GENERIC HORSE/PONY PUN DERP).

"What happened to us, Twilight?" The purple unicorn opened her mouth to explain when a dark blue Alicorn entered the room. The Mane 6 bowed, and Luna spoke, "I think I woudl be best to explain."

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SOMEWHERE IN THE EQUESTRIAN BADLANDS, 100 MILES AWAY FROM EQUESTRIA MAJOR

"So, you have failed?" The Still-Anonymous-Antagonist said with an angry snarl. "How did you fail such an easy task? I gave you some of the powers the Nightmare gave me! Explain that to me, idiot!"

"I'm sorry, My Queen." Clone-Shadow bowed at his superior's hooves. His horn was bandaged and magically replaced. "There was an unexpected...illogical interference. I cannot explain it, but I swear to you, My Regent of Darkness, I will not fail you next time!" With that, he teleported away for his next mission.

Once he was gone, the "Queen" summoned a dozen of Shadow Wolves. They each bowed to her and and waited for her command. "Follow that one in the shadows. If he fails me again, do not hesitate, do not forgive. Punish him as though he was stupid pony in the way of our rise! I command you to kill him upon his next failure, and make it a long death; make sure he suffers."

The Wolves sunk into the shadows and followed Shadow's clone, ready to do their job upon the circumstance.

The Queen could only smile. She turned to look at a mirror. Her once purple cape had turned into large black wings. Her horn had elongated from its original size. Her coat had turned to black upon the fateful meeting with the Nightmare. With this new-found power and a titanic army at her command, Trixie felt that it was about time for another Great and Powerful return to Ponyville. Her objective: To destroy those meddling humans. She gave an evil laugh that echoed throughout her chambers, and her Cutie Mark (without her notice) began to distort. The Nightmare had greater plans.

Trixie, Why?

About a week ago...

A blue unicorn mare wearing a tattered purple cape was sitting at the banks of a river. A small pull-able stable was park a yard away. The moon was cradled amongst the stars in the heavens above, but its beauty was blocked by the dark cumulonimbus clouds that drenched the entire Everfree Forest. A large leaf above the mare kept rain from her pointed hat, yet drops continually fell from the side of her face.The rain pouring around her camouflaged her tears as they joined together in a dance down the river.

"Why does everypony laugh at me?" She quietly asked herself. She pulled at her cape and rubbed her eyes with it, tears still threatening to spill from them. "What did Trixie do wrong?" She suddenly remembered that a certain town was nearby. The same town that housed a single pony that ridiculed her, made her seem worthless, revealed her lies. The one pony called Twilight Sparkle.

Anger boiled in her mind at the thought of her enemy. She wanted to throw something, anything to be rid of this stress. Trixie simply wanted to humiliate Twilight and make her as miserable as she felt at the moment. Trixie wanted Twilight hurt, but she didn't know how. She just knew she wanted revenge.

What she didn't know was that she was being watched. Not by a pony, nor griffon, nor any creature native to the forest. A wisp of blue sped by unnoticed by Trixie. It could tell she was vulnerable, it could feel her hate for Twilight emanating from it. It could relate; both beings were subject to the purple unicorn's abilities. The gaseous entity watch as Trixie let out her stress by throwing her port-a-stable into the water out of rage. The wooden structure shattered as it quickly met the sediment-covered bottom of the shallow river. It was then that the Nightmare chose to invade the showmare's mind. The blue mare felt an intense burning sensation attack her entire being. She fell to the ground and began to convulse. It wasn't until a few agonizing minutes later that she blacked out from the pain. When she awoke, Trixie saw naught but fog around her. She got up and ran forward, hoping to meet a wall, but got entirely the opposite no matter which way she trotted.

"Am I dead? Where am I?" Trixie wondered, thinking out loud. She didn't expect anything to respond, and was quite shocked to hear a disembodied voice laugh at her from all around the space she stood in.

"Aw, is poor Trixie lost? Trixie whipped her head around to find the source of the voice and was even more shocked to see a tall, dark alicorn walk towards her. It spoke with evil practically dripping from it words. "I care not for your well-being Trixie, only that you have enough potential to overpower not only the Elements of Harmony, but the even the Princesses themselves."

"Who are you?" Why do you think I have power when I was beaten by that Twilight pony?" Trixie inquired. Even though she wasn't certain of her surroundings, she was still certain of her hatred for that cursed purple unicorn.

"I am the Nightmare." The entity responded. Trixie stepped back out of fear. "Now now, dear, I'm not here to hurt you. Your pure hatred for a pony that holds an Element is a good enough reason to become my vessel. You have potential to conjure up any spell much greater than her and any unicorn can. What you need, however, to reach this level is a catalyst. That, my dear, would be me." The Nightmare flared out its wings for dramatic effect, and it was working, for Trixie had been paying complete attention to him.

"Aren't you supposed to be a mare?" Trixie asked out of total innocence. The dark alicorn chuckled.

"My gender always depends on my vessel. As you may know your beloved Princess Luna, I had to become a Night-'Mare' Moon so as to adapt to her style and powers. Originally, I am a stallion of old origins. And I will not use you as I did Luna. You shall control everything you do, but shall have me to strengthen your magic and ultimately come to rule all of Equestria!"

The aspect of world domination sparkled in Trixie's eyes. She was greedy, and could not wait to get her revenge on those who humiliated her, especially Sparkle and the rest of the Elements. The blue showmare looked into the taller alicorn's eyes and asked, "Where do we begin?"

The Nightmare smiled and with a show of magic, summoned a large Ursa Major shrouded in an aura of dark magic. "This is now your to control. I doubt it would hold up against a straight on attack, but am completely sure it would cause total destruction and fear in the hearts of all ponies."

In av flash of light, Trixie was once again standing at the edge of the river. Beside her was a large, purple, armored star bear. "And now," The Nightmare's voice echoed in her head. "We shall start by taking the Elements of Harmony, and do away with any bothersome pony that dares stand in our way!" Trixie jumped on the Ursa's back and it began moving in the direction of Ponyville. In the back of Trixie's mind, where she could not hear him, The Nightmare plotted the demise of those 3 new ponies that interfere with his return to full power. Like he said before, he cared only for Trixie's power, not her well-being. Trixie won't even see it coming.

An Unexpected Ally

Luna had brought us to the throne room to explain what happened. Apparently, somepony was able to transport our subconscious minds to a kind of prison. It was illegal for anypony, even the Princesses, to manipulate other ponies in this way. It was nearly impossible for her to trace where the spell was cast, but we immediately concluded it was the evil mare that stole the Elements of Harmony.

"So now that we know for sure that this evil pony is responsible," I began. "Just how are we supposed to find her and stop her from achieving her evil deed?" I looked to Twilight and asked, "How does tracing a spell usually work?"

She thought for a moment to reflect on her studies, then responded, "Every spell done leaves a kind of residue called AE (Arcane Energy) only detectable by high-level unicorns. The tracing spell, however is only effective on minor spells and from a smaller scale." Dusk looked at her, absorbing this new information.

"So it's hopeless," Dusk plainly stated. "We can't find her, she'll succeed." At this, Fire smacked him hard at his head and reprimanded him.

"You idiot, there's always a way." Fire walked over to Luna and asked, "Is there any way we can find out more about our enemy?"

Luna shook her head. "All we can do now is wait. Hopefully, we won't have to wait for long." She looked at the Mane 6 and and then at us, and finally, said, "I trust that you all will be patient. Such is a virtue, and may reward us with some answers."

"YOUR MAJESTY!" A white, armor-clad pegasus ran up to Luna, out of breath. "I have news of an intruder!" All of the ponies in the room turned to the soldier, waiting for him to deliver the message.

"Well?" Luna queried. "What of this intruder is so interesting?"

"He claimed to know Prince Shadow." The soldier pointed to me with his wing and continued. "He also looked almost exactly like him, too, Your Majesty. Except he gave a very dark vibe."

I ignored anything else anypony in the room said and flew out of the room instantly. I found myself flying towards a dozen of Royal Guards surrounding a dark figure, spears ready for any signs of hostility. I instantly dived down to the middle of the guards at which they collectively jumped back.

Ire and rage built up within me as I immediately recognized the figure. I landed hard on my hooves, causing a small explosion; the Royal Guards around us jumped back to avoid the flying debris. I then tackled my evil clone to the ground, and lowered my horn and charged an attack.

"Wait, please, I-" the clone began, but I immediately cut him off.

"You dare to enter Canterlot after what you did? You must be insane. Now you have about 5 seconds to tell me WHY I SHOULDN'T DESTROY YOU RIGHT NOW." I could actually see fear in his eyes; it felt good.

"Calm down, that's just what he wants!" He responded instead, catching me off guard.

"What? Who is 'he'?"

"I- I can't say. I've only come to send a warning. And to aid in any attempts to retaliate."

"NO! You will tell me who you work for!" I made my horn's aura start to crackle threateningly like lightning. "Do I have to force the answer out of you?"

"Please, I'm only a messenger! Only following orders! I was forced to fight you, if my master wasn't so lenient, I wouldn't be here."

"LIAR." I simply said, not realizing I was yelling.. "AND FOR COMMITTING ASSAULT AGAINST A PRINCE OF EQUESTRIA, YOU SHALL PAY!"

I brought my horn down to his face. He was pinned down with no way to escape. He was trapped by my rage and want for revenge. Before I could cast the lightning spell, I found myself caught in a dark blue aura and heard a familiar voice calmly speak.

"Prince Shadow, that is enough. We will get our answers and whatever information he plans to give us later." Luna trotted over to a Royal Guard and said, "Take the intruder away, we will interrogate him later when Celestia returns."

I watched as my clone was escorted back to the palace, where he would be imprisoned in the underground. I turned to Luna, and spoke flatly, "You should have let me deal with him."

Luna shook her head. "If I had, you would have killed our only link to the whereabouts of the Elements."

"He tried to kill me!" Luna tilted her head. I sighed and continued, "He's the evil clone that attacked me in the dream prison. I can't trust him at all."

"Shadow," Luna moved towards a small mirror pool. "Come here, you need to see yourself."

I obliged and looked into the the pool, and was about to rudely retort when I noticed my eyes. My eyes were red with rage. They were legitimately a dark, firey red that had the look of one with the intent to kill all in his path. I blinked hard twice, looked again, and noticed they had changed back to their natural blue.

"Do you remember what your clone said?" Luna asked. "Anything relevant to you specially?"

I thought for a moment, try to recall what he said when I didn't cut him off. "He said... to keep calm. It's what 'he' wants. Do you have any idea who might be after me?" Luna pondered this and I continued. "What entity feeds off of rage and hate for power?"

At this, Luna looked up realizing something. "SHADOW!" I looked up, startled at her outburst. "QUICKLY! WE MUST LOCATE AND TELL CELESTIA OF OUR FINDNNGS!"

"What? Luna, what do you mean? Do you know who is behind this?" I asked. "Who sent-" I was caught off when she simply answered.

"He's back." Luna said in a whisper. "The Nightmare has returned, and he's after you and your powers."

Training

A few days after the reunion with his clone...

After having any stressful day, I like to unwind by going down by the barracks, where I hone my skills. I had the guards put up numerous targets designed to test each one of my abilities. First was my endurance and hoof/blade-combat, then magic, then flying. It's quite exhausting, but helps me in the long run.

I first put on my Night-guard armor. It was like any another armor, but black. It was flexible and breathable, yet strong enough to repel strong spells and provide protection from blades. It also made normal physical attacks feel like light pushes. The only pony who could really hurt me physically with my armor on was Applejack, for obvious reasons. I didn't wear a helmet, they always impaired my vision, but leave my head and neck vulnerable. I'd have to be quick to avoid any fatal hits there. I had also been racing Rainbow Dash for a few weeks now. Raziele would join from time to time, but would always end up losing. Thanks to Rainbow, I was able to match her speed, which could help for certain situations. However, I could still be easily irritated if something didn't go my way, or easily distracted if someone on the side did something. My stamina is also cut short. While I was quite the athlete in the human world (Take Kwon Do experience and a track runner), my asthma always impeded me from reaching my true potential. Twilight had also been practicing with me, teaching me how to teleport. It was like Nightcrawler from X-Men, I have to see and know where I'm landing to teleport properly. So far, I only use teleportation to go behind enemies and escape being trapped, not travel.

As I entered the center of my training area, 5 wooden dummies appeared around me, trapping me in a circle, on the ground was a single sword. Then, they started to move quickly towards me; I had to think quickly as well. I bucked the two dummies behind me with enough force to break ribs (I estimated and measured for my targets to go down with a certain amount of pressure/damage). Then, I picked the sword off the ground into my mouth and decapitated the one dummy in front of me. The last two dummies backed off. I put the sword from my mouth and into my hoof, and threw it at the farthest dummy. It hit the dead center of its head, and it went down. I then pounced on the last dummy and began a wild barrage of punches and kicks that resulted in a headbutt to the dummy's chest, sending it flying and breaking upon impact against a castle wall.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Luna looked out her window to see Shadow training his heart out. He was getting a quick rest from his combat trials, a bit our of breath. The Moon Princess watched with concern; his asthma and short stamina could cost him in battles, but he was still very strong. There was no doubt that he could fight, she watched him every time he practiced, and he would gradually improve each session. She could only hope he would be prepared for what lay for him and his friends in the near future.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Damn, I thought. My asthma's gonna get me killed someday. I shook off the last of my exhaustion and stood ready for the next part of my test: Magic. As if on cue, several targets were launched into the air. My started to glow its normal grayish glow and fired magic bolts at each target I saw. I didn't miss a single one. Then, debris began throwing itself at me. I instinctively threw up a shield, and managed to repel the random debris from all angles.

Then, a lightning rod rose from the ground about 25 yards from where I stood. I thought about what Luna told me that one night, when she taught me how to charge my phone with magic. It was a similar concept. I made my horn glow with magic, but this time, it crackled with electricity that made the air smell like ozone in the high atmosphere.And so, I fired it with no problem like a normal magic bolt towards the rod. It hit the middle, and I could see the electricity race up and down the lightning rod. At this, 4 more rods rose from the ground, and 4 more were struck with my electricity.

And so, began the flying portion of my training. I extended my wings and took to the air, where an obstacle course composed of clouds met me. I saw many agility circles and targets and dummies for me to hit on my way through it. I took my spot at the start of the course. I smiled wondering if Rainbow could also try this course at some point.

"LET'S DO THIS!" I hyped myself up and took off quickly through the clouds. Upon my first turn in the course, I met several agility rings. I effortlessly flew threw each of them, not losing my speed. I then came up to the part with dummies and targets. I played a pinball game against the dummies, flying to each of them and bucking them to get to the other target, blasting each target that was in my line of sight. Next was my least favorite part: the fire rings. I hate fire, it's scary, end of story. I know that Fire Storm has an ability that's fire-related, but I grew to be fine with that, seeing as she can control it and only I can start it. But when it happens to be a sort of obstacle, I tend to freak out a bit. I carefully went through each ring, having slowed down my pace. The smoke from the winds clouded my lungs, and my asthma had already began to hurt me. I looked up to see the final straightaway. I smiled with relief that I was done with the fire wings, and saved up enough energy to perform this last stunt, my Shadow Blast!

I picked up my speed, even though it hurt my lungs to strain my wings. If I were being chased, I wouldn't care. I would need to escape no matter the cost. I began to spin, and my vision began to distort rapidly. I could feel a harsh resistance and pressure around me: the Mach Cone. I kept pushing and pushing until BOOM! I was rocketed to the end of the straightaway and into a soft cloud. There, I tried to breathe slower with my aching lungs. The smoke and asthma and overall exertion was killing me. My wheezing was heavy, but I had one last trick to pull from that cloud, a trick was powerful and recently made up. On the ground below was a group of dummies. This final trick needed as much energy as I could use, as it was, as I call it, "a charge-up" attack. My horned glowed again, this time wasn't with normal grey magic, nor electricity. It was pure dark energy, a shadow energy, if I may. At the thought of that intruder that recently attacked me, my eyes glowed red with anger once again, which fueled my adrenaline and power put into the charge. I looked up to see a sphere comprised of completely dark energy about two feet across. With all of my might, I magically hurled it down to the ground.

BOOOOOOOOOM!!!!! The sphere smashed into the ground with great force, obliterating all of the targets in the immediate vicinity. When the smoke cleared, there was nothing but a small crater and pieces of shattered practice dummies. I smiled, proud of my efforts, and flew slowly to my room. I needed sleep, I felt exhausted beyond anytime I've ever overworked myself. I truly felt I deserved some rest.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On the ground, a very shocked Raziele looked around at the destroyed targets. He looked up and watched as Shadow lazily flew to his quarters. Raze felt that Canterlot was very glad Prince Shadow Blitz was on their side.

Over the River, Through the Woods, to Canterlot We Go!

“Over the river and through the woods to Granny Smith’s we go!” Dusk sang as we trotted through the Everfree Forest. Fire and I started laughing a little. “Wait a minute, sugarcube,” I heard, and the whole group came to a halt. Applejack had spoken up, “How do you know my Granny Smith?”

Damn it, Dusk. We were so close to not being suspicious about our lives in Equestria, but you just had to sing that stupid rhyme. The Dusk and I were at a loss for words. Fire was going to explain when. “Twitchy Tail! Twitchy Tail!!!” Pinkie yelled, and a butter yellow pegasus landed with a loud SLAM! where we stood. “Girls! Thank goodness you’re here!” Fluttershy said, obviously tired. “I was walking through the woods to see Zecora, when I stumbled into a small meadow and saw some weird items in the grass.”

Twilight asked, “That’s what made you scream?” Fluttershy nodded. “Can you bring us back there?” Fluttershy shook her head furiously. “C’mon Fluttershy. It’s probably not even dangerous.” The shy pegasus sighed in defeat and led us to a familiar place. “Hey, Luke. “I heard Fire whisper to me. “Yeah, Lara?” “Isn’t this where we woke up yesterday?” Zack gasped aloud and turned to us with wide eyes with the same realization. Fluttershy walked over to a spot with some stuff scattered across a flattened spot of grass.

“This is what’s bothering ya, sugarcube?” Applejack asked. “It looks like a black square.” Twilight and Rarity moved in to inspect the object. Twilight lifted it telekinetically. It was something that didn’t belong here; an iPhone! More specifically, MY iPhone! I was about to speak up when Twilight lifted up Lara and Zack’s cell phones as well. Then, out of nowhere, the alarm on my phone began to ring very loudly. “My Little Pony, My Little Pony,...” The show’s theme song blasted from the device, causing Twilight to instinctively drop it.

I facehoofed as the song continued. “I used to wonder what friendship could be be...” “Holy horseapples, Twi.”Applejack said. “That looks a lot like you. What kind of magic is this?” “It’s not magic, Applejack.” The Mane 6 looked at me. “It’s a phone. A cellular phone, to be exact, also known as a cell-phone. It’s used by humans to communicate with each other over vast distances.”

“What’s a human?” Twilight looked lost. “I don’t recall ever reading about one.”

“Yes, do tell us; What is a human?” I turned and saw the eternally beautiful and intimidating Princess Celestia.

~~~~~~~

About an hour later...

We arrived in Canterlot within a matter of minutes via separate carriages. We arrived at the Princess’ castle and rendezvoused in a kind of meeting room. The Mane 6 were on either side of the Celestia (split 3 and 3), and Dusk, Fire, and I were in front of them. It felt like a courtroom. “What are your names?” Celestia asked. I looked to Rarity, who looked back with concern for me and my friends. At least, I hope it was concern and not a mask for being lied to.

“My name is Dusk Star.” He began. “I’m Fire Storm.” She said. “And I’m Shadow Blitz.” I finished. “All right.” Celestia nodded. “Now what are your real names, as those are not typical human names.” Twilight looked up to her mentor and asked, “You know what they are?” “Of course my faithful student. Luna and I have been watching there universe from ours for a long time.” The Princess replied.

She looked to us expectantly. I went first. “My name is Luke Pearson.” Then Zack followed suit. “Zachary Blunt.” Lara finished off the roll call. “Lara Herrickson.” “Do you three intend to cause any harm to Equestria or Equestrian society? Are you of any threat?” The three of us shook our heads. The Princess sighed and shook her head. “How did you get here?”

Zack spoke up, “Princess Luna paid us a visit.” Celestia’s eyes looked at us with a light that said something along the lines of, ‘uh-oh’.

“Please excuse me for a moment. And do feel free to stay the night here in the castle. It is nearing night time. I wish you all good evening.” She said, walking to the door. Out of nowhere, a pegasus guard flew into the room in front of me, Lara, and Zack. “I am Commander Raziele. I’m here to escort you to your rooms.” The Mane 6 and our little trio followed the unicorn around the castle. He was about Twilight’s height (I was taller than him, being that I was Big Macintosh’s height), and was very well built. He would have been a good help at Sweet Apple Acres. His Cutie Mark was a twister, which was appropriate for a pegasus that looked like he had seen his share of storms and atmospheric calamities. I’m glad he was on our side, because I did not want to mess with him.

He brought us each to our own rooms. I had rooms between Zack and Lara’s, and across from the Mane 6’s rooms. Inside was a HUGE bed, and a huge ceiling with a mural of the night sky, giving the illusion that I was outside. Upon entering, I ran and started jumping on the bed like a foal, when I stopped and saw that there was a balcony! It was bordered by a fancy white railing. It connected Zack and Lara’s rooms, and had a table for three in the middle of it. It had a weird purple flower on it, but I paid it no other mind. I looked over it, and looked down about 100 ft down in to the ground! I HATE HEIGHTS. I had no idea we would be so high up. I didn’t even notice that Raziele escorted us up a tower! What else was I not aware of? I forced myself to look up so as not to get sick.

In the distance, I saw Luna on her own balcony, looking up into the sky. Her horn began to glow and I noticed the moon started to rise, and the sun started to set. It was mind-boggling, having lived in a land of science, then seeing a single being take control and change your mind of how your own world worked, and vice versa. For example, what would really happen if Celestia and Luna didn’t have control over the moon and sun, and their respective heavenly bodies moved on their own? Would the influences of the Everfree Forest expand throughout Equestria? Would it become like our Earth? I shuddered at the idea that this utopia would become such a revolting place. Maybe this is how Gulliver felt when he travelled.

My mind started launching ideas and questions as fast Pinkie could speak, and I was distracted when Princess Luna herself teleported next to me. “Hello, Sir Shadow Blitz.” She said. “HOLY BUCK!” I yelled. I was quite deep in thought, and was not paying any attention whatsoever to my surroundings. “Oh, hi there, Princess. Sorry for my sudden outburst.” I bowed.

“It’s quite alright, Luke.It was very funny to be honest.” She said, snickering a little, and then started cracking up. “I bet that’s what your Royal Canterlot Voice sounds like.” I retaliated. She sobered up, then said, “I’m laughing at the fact that you kind of kicked over the table in the process of being scared, and have provoked Commander Raziele in the process.”

I turned and saw the pegasus himself with a broken flower pot. He looked pretty mad, then started to smile. “You’re lucky I’m a nice pony, Blitz. I’ll get you back at some point.”

He flew off, and when he was out of view, I started laughing, and was joined by Princess Luna. “He did look pretty funny.” I admitted, still laughing. “This will look even funnier!” I looked up, and saw Raziele dump a whole bucket of water on me, and I immediately started freezing. “HOLY HAY THAT’S COLD!” It truly was. Princess Luna wasn’t spared, but didn’t get as soaked as me. We both stared at the pegasus angrily, then burst out laughing. It was all in good fun, and we all stood there for a while. “You’re pretty cool, Raziele. I’ll see you later.” I said, offering a brohoof. He did so, and the saluted to the Princess, then flew off. “He is still young, but nevertheless very reliable.” She said. I watched descend to what looked like barracks near the Canterlot Gardens.

We stood out on the balcony for about an hour, having small, meaningless conversations, before the Princess of the Night retired to her own quarters. I realized how she never asked me about my own world, or how I got here. Did Celestia not talk to her about us yet? I shook my head out of thought, then entered my room and fell asleep.