Glory of the Sun

by Celesti Lateo

Rating: teen
Tags: Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Other, Self Insert, Sex, Violence, Princess Celestia, Alternate Universe, Human
Length: 53791

|Self-Insert Fic| I thought being an Alicorn prince would be awesome, because, you know, magic and imortality and knowing souls do exist is kind of awesome, right? Eh, not so much when your new mother is a crazed wannabe goddess.

So, I was living a fairly normal life, going to school, reading fanfics, marvelling at the magnificence of the internet and humanity at large, you know, a totally normal person. Then, suddenly, I wasn't. No biggie, because every brony's dream came true for me: I was reborn as a pony, an Alicorn even! That sounds great, right? Ah, aha, um, nope! Not when I'm the "son" of God-Empress Celestia of the Holy Empire of Equestria, who would make even the Imperium of 40k balk at her xenophobia and egomania. Well, I've got magic, that has to count for something, right?

If you would, please contribute to my Patreon, where you can support me and commission stories: Link

2017-07-09: Holy salmon, I've been featured. My first ever story got featured. In 3 days. I have no idea what I did to have the honour, but thank you all!

Edit: Here's a picture of the main character, Solus:
https://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=886997Solus.png

Published 2017-07-08 05:10:05 UTC
Last updated 2017-12-05 15:56:22 UTC

A New Dawn

God, why do I have to take a urban space course? It's so boring, and calisse, why do we have to go to Montréal? Do I look like someone who wants to be at school at the break of dawn?! Well, whatever, we're here now, might as well enjoy the sights.

The bus I'm in continue to cruise through the busy streets of Montréal as I am thinking (not whining, I'd never whine!) and my teacher points out all the interesting sights -well, interesting in the scope of the course- and talks at length about how this or that is an important part of the urban dimension of the city. I have to be honest that I wasn't really paying attention to her, and found myself relieved when she said we'd continue on foot. At least I'll have something to do, now.

Well, walking ain't all that entertaining, but you know, it is "something" to do.

Not much I can do about it though, so I just follow along, hoping the day will go by faster than I expect it to be. As we continue our journey, I try to distract myself by looking a bit everywhere, just trying to find something interesting to look at. You'd think such a big city would be more exciting. But to be fair, I don't care much about modern cities, so I guess I'm kind of biased.

Nonetheless, I continue to survey my surroundings, until we pass by a crosswalk. As it happens, I'm too much of a nervous, paranoid mess to not look at both sides of the road more than once. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the obvious couple by my side, who march forward while gazing lovingly in each others eyes, oblivious to the car speeding their way! Before I even realize what I'm doing, I try to push them out of the way...

...Ow, why does it hurt so much? I think I hear someone speaking -screaming?- with a lot of blurs going by me and standing over me. I think they're trying to reassure me?

My head... why is everything... fading?

Dark, so dark, yet so... warm...

Shifting, movement...

What is happening? Am I... dead?

Ba-dum, Ba-dum...

So hard to think

Sudden shift, being pushed, the warmth slips away...

Light! So white, everything's white... the sounds, the smells, the light, stars, the light, it hurts so much...

What is happening!? It hurts, why does it hurt...

The dark was nice, warm...

I don't want this, I want to go back!

New sound, but it's weird... Is it coming from me? I'm crying?...

Warmth.

A blur... is that a face? Doesn't look like a face...

Soft.

Is that a blanket?

Face, blanket...

Baby...?

No way...

I couldn't possibly be...

Moving again...Where...

Soft, so soft... a bed?

Where's my... the mother? Did she die?

Please no, I already had my chance, I don't want a new life if someone has to die for it!

Wait, someone's reaching...

Standing? Not the mother, then... a nurse?

Light! Again! Tabernack! How often will I be blinded, damnit?

And soft again. Sleepy... so sleepy...

Wakey, wakey! Not. Ugh. What's the point of waking if I can't do anything! I think it's been a few days... weeks? Something. Hard to tell when it feels like my brain is swimming in glue.

Things have been so weird though. I mean, I expected the breastfeeding, but why is there legs around my head when I do so? Well, I'm pretty sure they are legs, but I've got a baby brain, not great to try and make sense of the world. I'm not even able to recognize the faces of my caretakers. Talking of which, I seem to be the only one they care for. I mean, my new family might be rich enough to have hired help, but still, weird.

Sound? Clack? Hmm, more like... Clop? Wait, clop?

Verrat! Light again! Curse you fundamental part of reality! Wait... it's... different. It's... fire! Fudge! Why is there a fire in my room! Or... is that face? Well silly me, false alarm! Someone just have their head on fire. He said with sarcasm. What the actual heck, though? Sound... it's speaking? Sound like... Italian? Maybe Latin? Something like that. Wait, it -she? sounds like a she- paused there.

"Solus."

Is that my name? Seems like a name. Wait a second, is the talking campfire my Mom? Huh.

What? What do you want me to say? I've got a flaming Roman (Italian, something, oh f*ck all kind of puppies) for a mother! I'd like to see you try to come up with something.

Oh. I'm not on the bed anymore. Been a while actually. I don't feel arms holding me up either. There is something, but it's nothing like any kind of appendage I've seen.

The light, it's still there, but... is that a horn?

...

Oh f*ck no.

Oh, f*ck me.

No way in any kind of hell.

Horn? Light? Clop?!

Impossible, inconceivable (Yes I know what the word means Montaya - Shut up!).

And... are those wings?

It's fortunate that I know you don't dream in a coma, otherwise I'd be saying that I'm dreaming.

...

I am dreaming, right?

...

Well, shit. I'm a pony.

For some reasons, That thought seem a mite strange, just a wee bit.

That's reasonable, right?

I can't believe it.

I'm a pony.

How could I miss the fact I have hooves? Well, admittedly I was otherwise preoccupied and what's the difference between tiny, useless baby hands and hooves, but still! And I'm pretty sure I've got wings or something... pegasus? Hope not. I mean, like, flying is cool, but MAGIC!!! (yes, capitalization is required, thank you very much) and stuff. Said stuff being making my life that much easier if the fanon theory that hooves have tactile telekinesis isn't true. Actually, I always wondered how the hell a tool using civilization could happen if 2/3 of the population is unable to use said tools.

Anyway, pony.

What should I do? Seems like the -my- mother is an alicorn, and not any I know... Though... "Solus"? Could it be Celestia? Or dog forbid... Daybreaker? Either way, does that make me a Prince? Um. Not sure if I want to rule or anything like that, though Celestia seems like the sort to understand if someone doesn't go along with her expectation. In fact, a royal lifestyle would allow me to finally begin a writing career without worrying about eating and housing or other inconsequential things like that. I guess I'll have to wait and see. Somehow, the phrase "what's the worse that could happen?" comes to mind. And also "do not taunt Murphy".

But it's fine, everything's going to go swimmingly.

Right?

Author's Note

Welcome to Glory of the Sun. I hope you'll be entertained. This is my first story ever, and any criticism is welcome, as I always seek to improve myself. I'd like to thank Windlife for spurring me to continue this story, since before I read hers and her comment I had actually lost the will to write this story.

Thank you for reading and I hope I don't disappoint any of you!

I Taunted Murphy

Well, seems I was being rather genre blind (thank you TVTropes!). Of course something would happen. I mean, sure it's boring acting like a baby -foal?-, but I should have known acting more mature would get me in trouble. Just a couple of years here and I'm already walking and learning to talk. Which is as hard as you would imagine, since I already know how to talk, but my caretakers don't know that, which prevent them properly communicating what exactly they are saying. At least they know I'm "smart", otherwise I'm pretty sure Firehorse would have their heads.

Literally.

I don't know that for sure, but considering I barely see her and on the rare occasion that I do she examine me like I'm a prize horse, I would be inclined to say that this is not Celestia. I'd imagine Celestia would take any excuses possible to spend more time with her foal. And there's also the fact that my caretakers seem ready to shit in their proverbial pants every time she comes by. And them pushing me to learn everything, faster. Just little details like that.

At least I'm an alicorn! That counts for something, right?

I first noticed that a little while ago actually, when I managed to tell my caretaker that I wanted to see a mirror. Which was weird by the way, what with my brain telling me my reflection was someone else. Somepony. Anyway. I finally was able to get a good look at myself. I obviously saw my horn, as well as my wings, but aside from that I have a white coat, much like Firehorse, as well as a golden mane (yellow sounds bad, shut it). Though what captivated me the most was the eyes. Blue. So, so blue. I didn't even think it was possible to have eyes that could be that blue. Caeruleus or Saphirus would have been better name for me, really.

Anyhow (is that a word?), I now had the dubious honour of being the Divine Empress heir. Oh yeah, nearly forgot that one. It seem Celestia think she's a goddess. Or something. I'm just a not-that-newborn. Kind of hard to come by any kind of information when you never leave your quarters. Though that might change soon, since my caretakers are focusing rather intensely on my posture and poise, trying to get me to act like a foal six time my age. Who has a stick up their plot. Well trying isn't the right word, considering I'm just as nervous as them about my mother, but fine motor control is not something somepony my age is blessed with, unfortunately. Which would include my mouth. In other words, I understand Equestrian better than I can speak it. Which is a problem, since Mother dearest does not seem to be able to grasp the difference between a foal and a full-grown stallion.

Other than that, life is pretty sweet, all things considered, though I'm not foolish enough to think it will last. Celestia wants results, and she will get them, no matter what.

"Your Serene Highness, your Mother requires your presence."

Wait, what? I'd better answer that with grace and eloquence.

"What? Why?"

Damnit.

"I do not know, your Highness." Stick-in-Mud answered, "But I am certain it is vitally important."

Hmm, seems a bit nervous there, Alfred. What could it possibly be?

"Very well, help me prepare then, Proper Worth."

Yes, that is his name. Yes, he is a grade-A sophisticated plothole, how did you guess?

At the very least he's a competent plothole, and with the help of a few servants he gets me ready in short order. I must admit that I am pretty excited, it's the first time I get to go outside, even if the reason why seems rather ominous.

It's not long before Proper open the door and beckons me to follow him. At the very least he was considerate enough (or pragmatic enough) to tell one of the maid to carry me. As we move through the halls, I allow myself to let my eyes wonder. It's quite breathtaking, actually. The marble, the gold and the masterfully crafted stained glass does show that at the very least Equestria is quite prosperous and not lacking in skilled craftspony. Or at the very least Mom is.

It doesn't take long before we reach a grand door, golden and full of reliefs, notably a rather exquisite one of the Sun. Surprising. Nonetheless, Proper tell the maid to let me walk on my own and to make herself scarce, and then lower himself to my level.

"We are here Your Highness", he says. "Stand tall and do not let any kind of anxiety show. You must be strong in the face of your subjects."

I do not like the look in his eyes, lets fish for information.

"What awaits me beyond these doors, Proper?", I say with my best attempts at puppy eyes.

He doesn't seem willing to play along.

"I can not tell, Your Highness, you will have to do this on your own."

Well, f*ck you too, Proper.

Ignoring my righteous indignation that he has no way of knowing about, he proceed to nod to the pegasi guards waiting by the door, said guard proceeding to open the door. Slowly. Oh come on, open already! Is there too much gold on you, you damned thing? And...

I take it back! Close it, Close it!

My reaction is perfectly understandable when you consider that the room -Throne Room?- was filled to the brim with ponies, all of them unicorns, all of them exuding haughtiness and self-satisfaction. Think Blueblood, but worse, way worse. I didn't even hear a single word from them and I can tell they have an entire colonnade up their collective plot. A gilded one. At the other end of the room sits her Regal Majesty, Celestia, otherwise known as Mom. Hmm, wonder how'd she react to me calling her that? Probably not a good idea.

At any rate, at the very least Mom isn't the same as her court. She's just... you know... f*cking terrifying. Other than the fiery mane, she also wears a golden regalia, peytral, horseshoes, et caetera, as well as a golden crown. Well, headdress would be a better word. In short, she got da best bling, bro! But the worst is clearly her eyes. Oh, her eyes. They're not like Daybreaker's. They're worse. Her eyes are so beautiful, red like rubies, shining like the Sun. But what is behind them... contempt, disinterest, cold and calculating, always watching, always judging. If you are you unworthy, you will not know it, for she will already have dealt with you. Her face isn't much better. While assessing a horse face is hard for me, there's just something that tells me that her's could be so beautiful, and yet isn't. It's just... wrong. Like her face wasn't meant to have the kind of expression she wears daily.

Tah-ta-ta-taaaah!!!

Osti! My ears! Could have warned me, Proper!

"Announcing His Serene Highness, Solus, Crown Prince of the Holy Empire of Equestria and son and heir of the Divine Empress Celestia the Magnificent!"

Meh. Still more humble than Dany.

Holding my head high, I walk up the aisle, not making eye contact with anyone. Not because I think I'm better, like I'm sure the Court thinks I do, but rather to avoid showing my anxiety over this entire situation. After all, like Proper always said: "Show no fear, for you are a Prince." Okay, fine, he's not that bad, but he's still a strict disciplinarian.

Shuffling on my little hooves, I try my best not to let my face be better acquainted with the floor while getting closer to the throne, where Mom is clearly waiting for me. Upon arriving to her feet, she rises, flaring her wing wide, adding a bit of a light show with her mane.

"My subjects, We present to you Our heir, Solus", she declares. "You shall devote yourself to him like you do to Us, and serve him in all ways that he shall desire. Now, bow before your new Prince, who shall one day rule alongside Us!"

As one, the nobles bow, and shout: "All hail Prince Solus! Long may He reign!"

Well, that happened.

After the noble blew their lungs out, Mom led me out of the Throne Room, and we're currently walking in the halls of the castle. After a little while we reach a gilded (how original) door, which she opens with a quick burst of magic. After shuffling in after her, she leads me to a corner of the room littered with very expensive looking cushions. Seeing her sitting on one, I follow her lead.

After I take my seat, I look up to her. Why is she staring at me like that? She looks...nervous?

"Proper Worth tells me your education has been productive."

What am I supposed to say to that?

"I try my best, Mother."

Her eyes narrows. Wrong answer, apparently.

"You only did what was expected from my flesh and blood, and I expect you to continue to meet my standards in the future."

Hell, mare! What more do you want from me? Most foals my age would still be babbling like idiots and crapping themselves regularly enough you'd get drunk if you took a shot each time they did. Can't say that though, lets try to be more diplomatic.

"I will Mother."

What, were you expecting a speech or something? I'm just a two-year-old. Which makes my mother an even more unbearable bitch.

"Good. I expect great things from you, Solus. Do not disappoint me. Proper Worth, take him back to his quarters."

"At once, Your Divine Radiance."

When did he get here? No matter, let's go. Before I do though, lets be polite. One of us will be at the very least.

"Goodbye, Mother."

Why does she look so surprised? Did I say the wrong thing?

There's a moment of silence before her eyes soften.

"Goodbye, my son."

Wow.

Her face... it's... right...

"Let's go now, my Prince."

Oh, right! I make to follow him, but I turn my head just before crossing the threshold, wanting to see her face again, but she already turned away from us. What was that? Is there actually a heart behind that gilded mask?

Did I imagine that? Maybe, but she is Celestia...

Oh, whatever. She's still a megalomaniac, that didn't change.

"Your Serene Highness? It is time for you lessons."

Oh, fuck me.

School Days

I'm so tired, why don't you just leave me alone, ciboire!

"Now, Master Solus, focus! What would your august Mother would say if she knew you didn't pay attention in class?"

I'd rather not think about that, thank you very much. Haven't I done enough yet? I'm just four and I'm already more verbose than a colt thrice my age, and I know more about etiquette and the history of the Empire than somepony five time my age.

"As I was saying, in order to master the Telekinesis Spell, you must find your mana font and allow it to run through your veins. When you feel you have enough, picture the object you desire to lift, its shape and its weight. Your mana should form a shell around the object. The feedback from it should allow you to know how much mana is required to lift the object."

You make it sound so easy, like you did the first dozens times. Can't you see I'm exhausted?

"Please proceed to cast the spell, my Prince."

Seemingly not. Very well. Deep breaths. In, and out. Feel my breath and find the source, that which allow me to live, that which make my heart beat, the fire that keep me warm and the light of my soul.

Yes I know it's dramatic, but it works.

Talking of which, I've found it, my mana font. Warm and full of life. I coax the cerulean energy to flow free and I try to direct it to my horn. I know it's cliche, but there really is no word to describe the feeling of magic coursing through you. Now I only have to get it out of my horn and wrap it around the feather. Yes, I did say feather. There are times where I feel my life has become plagued by a cliche storm. Woe is me. At any rate, picturing. A feather of white and light of weight. Wrap the mana around it, feel how the mana responds and... lift!

Ah! I did it! Bow to my psychokinetic might, puny mortals!

"Very good, Your Highness", my teacher says. "Now, move it around the room."

Oh.

Should have known it wouldn't be that easy. There's no point in whining, let's get to it.

"... on the left, my Prince."

Which one on the left, you utter plothole!? Maybe that one? I pick one at random with my hoof. Lucky me that there is a easy to use tactile telekinesis magic available to all ponies.

Whack!!!

Ouch! Calisse de tabernack!

"Not that one! That one there, just beside it. Try and make an effort, Your Serene Highness."

Which side? Oh, whatever!

'Ma petite vache a mal aux pattes, tirons-la par la queue, elle ira bien mieux, un, deux...'

That one, it seems.

Whack!!!

Oh, f*ck you!

"Are you even trying?" My tormentor lifts one of the fork with her magic. "It's that one! It's so simple! How can you get it wrong!"

Says you.

"Now, pick the dessert fork."

Fuuuuuuuuuuu...

"...and we have her Divine Radiance, your Mother, to thank for bringing Order to Equus."

Yeah, sure. I'm positively certain that's 100% factually accurate and not boot-licking at all, perish the thought.

"If it were not for her, the Night Mare would have brought Chaos and ruin to our beautiful land."

Wait, what? Is he talking about Luna?

"Mister Diurne Compendium, who is the Night Mare?"

"Ah, she was a most terrible foe that your most august Mother had to face at the beginning of her reign, a millennium ago. She wanted to bring the Eternal Night and cast down your Mother and take her rightful place as Mistress of the Heavens. No one knows where she came from, nor what made her commit such vile deeds, but our glorious Empress banished her to the Moon, a most fitting and ironic punishment, if you ask me."

By the stars, he is talking about Luna and he even said she was banished a thousand years ago! What should I do? No, wait. How the hell did Celestia use the Elements?

"How did she do that?"

"Um, it is said that she used powerful artifacts, physical embodiment of Order, that gave her the power to protect Equestria."

So she did use them! "Embodiment of Order", though? Not encouraging. If she just renamed them, it might mean she was still herself during the rise of Nightmare Moon.

"Is the nature of those artifacts known?"

He raised his eyebrows at that.

"Well, no. Legends do tell us of relics called the 'Elements of Harmony', but most scholars think they are just a legend dating back to the days of the Dream Valley who have no relation with the artifacts used by the Empress."

Oh, sure, whatever. Though, I do wonder what might have happened to make Celestia into what she is today.

Can she be redeemed? Or is it permanent?

"One more lap!"

Oh, buck you.

"Come on, maggot! I won't let your title get in the way of your training!"

I'm five! Give me a break, you psycho! I've been doing this for three hours, now! And that's not even talking about the days and weeks before that!

"And...stop!"

I drop to the ground, relieved beyond any mortal comprehension. Everything burns, it's horrible.

"On your feet! Discipline and willpower! I'll make sure you have both of these!"

Ugh. I stand, not without a inhuman -inequine?- amount of effort. Iron Rod, my trainer, doesn't even have the decency to look satisfied that I managed to stand, the plothole. Being an alicorn doesn't make me invincible you know!

"Stretch until you have your breath back and then do a light jog around the course."

Oi! There's a difference between training and foal abuse, you know! No choice, though.

*sigh*

"No complaining!"

Oh, you just can go eat the biggest bag of chickens.

At the very least, I'm sure I'll be the healthiest little pony around. That has to count for something, no?

"Stop dragging your feet!"

Not enough. Not nearly enough.

Finally, back to my bed, soft and warm and not yelling at me. I'm sore all over and I'm pretty sure my brain is about ready to explode. "I expect great things from you." I guess I should have seen it coming.

Still, what should I do? I can't just let my Mom tyranny continue, can I? Maybe I could use the Elements? Maybe that's why she's making me train so much. She's probably grooming me to use the Element of Magic when Luna returns. I'd have to find the other Elements Bearer. If they even exist in this timeline.

What would I even do if I manage to overthrow Celestia, rule? I can't rule, I'd be a terrible ruler, probably can't even use Magic. And let's not even get into the nightmare that is the Equestrian bureaucracy and governance.

I'm just some random loser from Earth, even all the training in the world won't change that.

What should I do?

Author's Note

An internet cookie for the first to figure out what the chapter title references!

Contentment

My sixth birthday is coming soon. According to Equestrian tradition, the sixth one is very important, since by that point the foal would have escaped any major disease as well as living long enough to make sure there is no birth defect. I don't know what the last bit means, but I can make an educated guess. Every other birthday who is a multiple of six is also celebrated until the 36th one, one for each of the Cardinal Virtues. Contentment, Devotion, Justice, Charity, Self-Sacrifice and Order. So you have to be content with your lot in life and accept your place in the Imperial Order, devoted to the Empress, accept justice, no matter what, give of your wealth to support the Greater Good and sacrifice your own well being in the name of the Empire, all for Order. And I thought I already hated this Equestria.

From what Proper told me, my Realization of Contentment will also be a grand ball as well as my debut and introduction to the high society of the Empire. Oh, what joy. Which means my teachers have been even more insistent on etiquette and discipline than usual. Somehow.

I'm actually preparing to go right now, with Proper and the servants all fussing over me, since it's set to begin in a few hours. No, today is not my birthday, the nobility just tend to extend such celebration to a rather extreme length of time. Mine will last for six days, symbolism and all. Hardly the longest, but most certainly the most expensive. I am the first ever alicorn prince born in the Empire, after all. Hmm, wonder if a economic graph would show a difference...

Anyway.

"Am I ready yet, Proper?"

"What? Of course not, you're not anywhere close to being ready and-"

"Isn't being an alicorn enough? What do I care of their ideas of fashion? They use cloth and fur to make themselves look better, I do not need any of this."

"Well, for certain, my Prince, but..."

"No but. I'll go as I am right now. Give me my regalia"

They won't stop badgering me about how a prince must be wilful and decisive, I simply took their lessons to heart. My regalia consist of golden horseshoes and a simple circlet, also golden. Not exactly glamorous, but I guess even Celestia realizes the futility of making a expensive crown for a growing foal.

After being outfitted with my regalia, Proper leads me out of my quarters and we head for the Ballroom, where the celebration will take place. For all that I hate the Empire, I'll have to admit that when they build something, they build something. Even years later, I'm still as awestruck as the first time. But layers of icing doesn't change the fact the cake is rotten, it just hide it.

We soon arrive to our destination, which is thankfully empty. Except for the servants, that is. But they don't plan to involve me in one of their scheme or political manoeuvre. Probably. Maybe. Better to not think about it. Talking about things that are best left unthought about, Mom is also there, seated at the main table. She looks in our direction, and while she does not show any surprise, she does raise on of her eyebrow. Um, maybe this wasn't the best occasion to begin asserting my individuality like a hipster. Oh well, too late now. Probably. Maybe I could pretend I'm sick? Nah, being an alicorn would make that a flimsy lie. Curse you supernaturally enhanced immune system!

Let's get this over with. I head for the table and then sit my pretty little pony flank right next to Talking-Campfire-Head.

"Rather lightly dressed, aren't you?"

Well, had I know you'd resort to attach all the bling in Equestria to your own illustrious person, I might have dressed differently. How do you even walk with that dress on? Well, earth pony strength, probably. So easy to forget about it sometimes.

"I told Proper an alicorn had no need for the artifices that lesser ponies use to make themselves look better."

Eyebrow again. I don't think I said the right thing.

"And what does that make me, then?"

Svuck. What do I say? Wait, I know, I select FLIRT!

"We might not need it, but it does not mean that it does not make us look better."

Accept the compliment, Accept the compliment, Accept the compliment...

She chuckles a little.

"Flatterer."

YES! Thanks Frisk!

"What, no! Perish the thought, I'm simply stating a fact,"

The corners of her mouth lift a little at that.

"Keep your silver tongue for our subjects. You will need it."

Not ominous at all. But still, disaster avoided! And just in time, too. The first guests are arriving.

Tah-ta-ta-ta!!!

Ugh, my ears. Wasn't next to them at the very least.

"Announcing Baron Golden Light of Eastwick!"

That's something else I noticed, there doesn't to be any of the pun that characterized the place names in the show. In fact, the capital is called Caelestiana. Big surprise there.

"Announcing Lord Enlightened Law and Lady Oriflamme of Dyonis!"

Starting to see a pattern in the names here. Oh whatever, not important. Lets review all the rules about eating, I'd really rather avoid committing a faux-pas in front of Mom and the entire Court.

'Third fork on the left is for the entree, knife in front of the dish for butter only...'

"...illight Velvet..."

Wait, what?

"...and Duke Nightlight of the Alban Hills! Accompanying them, their son, Lord Shining Armour!"

No freaking way. It's really them. Velvet even looks pregnant. Whatever, can't do anything about that now, panic about it later.

Oh, this is going to be one hell of a night, I can feel it.

While there's no other bombshell like that one, it's still take a while before all the guests arrive, not helped by the fact that I'm pretty sure some of them are "fashionably" late.

After the last of the guest is seated, Mom stands up, looking over the assembled nobles.

"My dear subjects, We are pleased that you came. Today is a very special occasion, for it is the first Realization of Contentment of an alicorn. We all have to accept the decree of fate, and alicorns are no exceptions. Today, we celebrate My son entrance to the Imperial Order. Long may he reign, in the name of Order and the Greater Good."

"Long may he reign!", the nobles reply in unison.

"Now, let us partake in sustenance and merriment in honour of my son getting closer to grasping his grandiose destiny!"

And with that, the servants began to bring all kind of dishes and drink. And again. And again. Ugh, I'm going to be sick.

"You don't have to eat it all."

What? Why didn't you say something earlier, Mom?

"I don't?"

She allows herself a little smile.

"Of course not, I'd be as fat as the Pillar if I did."

Oh you cheeky bitch.

"But then why is there so much?"

...And the smile just met a untimely demise.

"To show the affluence and wealth of the Celestial Throne, of course."

What can I reply to that? Except the obvious one that will get me in a heap of trouble. Unfortunately for me, my Mother seem to have perceived my disagreement.

"What is it? Out with it."

Oh, she doesn't look happy.

"W-well, It's j-just..."

"Stop stuttering."

She didn't even raise her voice and oh lys she's glaring at me.

"I just thought, well, wouldn't it be, uh, better if we used those resources to help build better infrastructure or fund a project-"

"This demonstration of wealth is of paramount importance. We must show to the world that our claims of superiority isn't just a shadow on the wall. You had better focus on more important things than some silly notion of improving the Empire in such small ways. That's what the nobles are for. Am I understood?"

"...yes, Mother."

"Good. Now, as soon as the feast end I want you to mingle with the assembled guest. Show them why Fate has decreed you would rule alongside me."

"Yes, Mother."

Oh, dear stars, shut. UP!

"... and my sweet little Rose would make an ideal companion, Your Serene Highness, she really would. For example, why just yesterday she..."

Oh, dear mother of me, grant me the sweet release of death.

"Um, um."

Huh, who...?

"Oh, Duchess Velvet, I was just telling the Prince about my dear Rose and-"

"Of course, perfectly understandable, but you're not going to keep him for yourself, are you?"

"What, no, of course-"

"Oh goodie! Shiny, come here, present your congratulations to the Prince."

Yes, thank you Velvet! Away with you, vile, boring wretch!

"Yes mother."

Oh. My. Lard. He's so...ADORABLE!!! Shuffling on his little hoovsies and looking flustered and nervous, he looks so huggable!

"Um, hmm, Con-uh-Congratulation for your, uh, your Realizu-za-tion of Content."

Oh gosh, can I make him my royal plushie?

"Shining Armour! I'm truly sorry, Your Serene Highness, he's usually more eloquent-"

"I don't mind, Duchess, and thank you Shining Armour. Would you mind sitting with me?"

"Wha-"

"Of course! Come on Shiny, don't be rude! It would be most unbecoming to refuse the Prince command."

Command? Oh, whatever.

"O-okay, mother."

And with that I'm left alone with the Adorkable Knight. Or he would be. In another timeline.

Or maybe not. Mother wanted me to mingle? Let's mingle.

"What do you think of the celebration so far, Lord Armour?"

"Oh! Um, it's, uh, super great!", he says, noticeably wincing when he realizes he let his mouth run off.

Right. I have my work cut out for me.

"Thank you. There's no need to be afraid you know, I don't bite."

"What? Of course not, I never said that, I'd never and I love you!"

Ladies and gentlecolts, we have the winner of the "Hoof-in-Mouth" award before our eyes.

"Uh, I mean, I don't love you! No, wait! I meant, I meant-"

"It's okay, I understand what you meant, don't worry about it."

"But I just said-"

"No but. Are you contradicting your Prince?"

"Of course not!"

"Then don't worry about it."

He doesn't look convinced, but at the very least he's no longer on the verge of a panic attack. Oh Shiny, I hope I'll be able to help you.

I manage to make small talk with him (with an inordinate amount of effort) and manage to use him as a shield from further assault from greedy supplicant. By the end of the soiree, I'm pretty sure I managed to get myself a new friend. As the guests begin to leave, I notice that Velvet is coming our way.

"Well, I had fun tonight, Shining! I hope I'll see you tomorrow!"

"Uh, sure, Your Highness."

Baby steps, Solus, baby steps.

He scamper away quickly, his mother looking disappointed that she didn't get to talk to me. As they are about to leave, Shining turns his head back to look at me. Oh, he's so cute. Have a little goodbye wave! And he's all red again.

But before he turned away, I managed to see a little smile.

For the first time in my new life, I actually look forward to the dawn of a new day.

Epiphany-Part 1

"Seems you managed to find yourself an ally."

Huh? Oh, Mom. The hell is she on about?

"You have chosen well. The Duchess of the Alban Hills is a very powerful and influential member of the Court and having her support will most certainly greatly help you in the Game."

What, like the Game of Thrones? Of course that's what she meant. What happened, Mom? You used to be all about friendship and rainbows and marshmallow. Couldn't you be that Celestia?

"Thank you, Mother. Could I see him tomorrow, before the celebration start again?"

Please, say yes...

"Hmm, very well. After all, with your lessons put on hold for the celebration you have the free time to do so."

"Thank you, Mother!"

I turn away from her ready to trot back, when she talks again.

"I'm proud of you, Solus."

what?

"Your dedication to your studies is exemplary..."

What?

"...and Iron Rod talks highly of you. He said he never saw a more stubborn student than you..."

Whaaaat?

"...your attitude this night was perfect. It took me years before I managed to fend off the nobles like that." She chuckles a bit at that.

What.

She doesn't chuckle. She doesn't do compliment. Oh stars, what is she planning?

"Solus? What's wrong?"

What's wrong? WHAT'S WRONG!? For years I've been trying to get your approval, you bitch!

"Are you that surprised, of me being proud of you?"

YES!

"YES!"

Oh fuck. Oh fuckfuckfuckfuckfuckfuck. Why is it so silent? I just used the Royal Canterlot Voice against my mother. Oh callise d'osti de tabernack, I just used the Royal Canterlot Voice against Celestia!

"I'm sorry! I didn't-AAAAAAGGGHH!"

Pain. Hot, searing pain. Oh, please, make it stop! Stop! STOP IT! PLEASE! I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY!

"I'll let your impropriety slide this time, as it was the first time you did so, as well as the last. Never do this again, and it will never have happened and you'll still be able to go see your little companion. Am I clear?"

*Sob*

"AM I CLEAR?"

"sniff... Yesh, Mahter..."

"Good. Proper Worth, bring him back to his quarters."

"Of course, Empress."

"Then come to my room, it seems you have been remiss in your duties."

"What! Oh, Empress please, I-"

"Silence. Are you questioning me?"

"No..."

"Then proceed to do as I asked."

Proper helps me up, but I can barely walk. Everything hurts, like it's on fire.

I won't make the same mistake twice. I thought you might be like Celestia under your mask. But the mask doesn't hide your goodness.

It hides what a monster you are.

I lay in my bed, not daring to move. Even after an entire night, it still hurt.

I can' believe it. Why did I do that? It's not like I didn't know she was bad. So what if she's proud of me? It's not like I'd want the approval of a psycho like her.

Right?

Oh, whatever. It's morning and I can go see Shining Armour. At the very least Celestia didn't take that from me. Let's get up and...

"Owowowowouch..."

Please tell me that Shining prefer reading like his sister.

So, now let's just limp to the dining room and...

Oh, hello Proper, you look so happy this fine morning.

"Good morning, Proper."

"...Good morning, Prince", he says in clipped tone.

Youpie, one hateful majordomo, what I always wanted. Can I fix this?

"I'm truly sorry the Empress punished you for my misbehaviour."

"Umph, thank you, Prince."

Wow, didn't that sound sincere.

"Prince Solus, you might want to get breakfast over quickly."

"I know, I can go see Shining."

"Indeed, but this isn't what I'm referring to."

"It isn't?"

"Should I ask the court physician to check your ears?"

"No, no! Um, what is it then?"

Ain't we one massive grouchy pants.

"Your Mother decided to allow you to have one of your birthday presents early, in the hopes that, and I quote, 'It will teach him why respect is important.'"

Isn't that ominous.

"Where is it, then?"

"We'll have to procure it, Prince."

"We?"

"Yes. After all, you get to choose it."

"Choose? Are we getting a pet or something like that?"

"Hmm, I suppose you could say that."

Uh, cool. I wonder what the choices are? A phoenix would be awesome!

"Your breakfast, Prince."

Oh, right!

Proper said we'd go after I spent some time with Shining, saying something like I'll need to focus all my attention on my gift, which is fair enough, really. For now, I'm simply waiting for Shining to come over. Which is entirely fine by me, considering I'd rather not move at all.

"Your Serene Highness, there's a visitor for you", one of the maid says.

"Show him in, please."

And here comes my little plushie, uh, Shining, I meant Shining! Anyway.

"Hello, Shining Armour."

"Um, hello, Your Highness," he squeaks out.

And I thought death by cuteness was just a brony joke. Meh, it has probably more to do with the soreness my "punishment" caused.

"What did I say last night?"

"Uh, you said a lot of thing, like how you like bananas and-"

What? It's in my blood!

"I said, don't worry about it. You don't need to act like I'm about to blow up each time you do something."

"Oh, right, sorry..."

I put an hoof on his wither.

"Don't be, I understand why you're so nervous. How do you think I feel when I'm with the Empress?."

"Happy?"

I walked right into that one, didn't I?

"Nervous, incredibly nervous. Even for me, she won't make an exception."

"But surely she's not as harsh with you, right?"

I'm sure my face must be in a rather fascinating configuration, if Shining's wince is any indication.

"No."

"O-oh, I'm sorry, of course I wouldn't know, I'm just a stupid colt and-"

"Shining, stop. You're not stupid. You had no way of knowing, okay?"

"But-"

I raise my eyebrow.

"Oh, uh, no but, right?"

"Yes. Who told you you were stupid anyway?"

"My mom, uh, mother always call me that when I make a mistake."

Oh, Shiny.

"Well, she shouldn't!"

"But I always mess up and say stupid things and I'm just stupid-"

I hug him tightly. Poor thing, he's shaking like a leaf.

"No you're not. I'm sure you're a very intelligent young stallion. Sure you make mistakes, but if you didn't, how would you learn?"

"Wha-what do you mean?"

"Look Shiny, everypony make mistakes, even the Empress. But that's not a bad thing, as long as you learn from them and strive to never repeat them. Do you understand?"

"Ye-sniff-yes."

"Are you crying?"

He ferociously wipes his eyes.

"No, I'm -sniff-, I'm not!"

"There's nothing wrong with crying, you know. Tears help your mind calm itself. Only fools think that crying is a show of weakness, because they'll be the first to break."

"But I c-can't just cry in front of everypony!"

I wipe a stray tear away and raise his head so he'll look at me.

"Of course you can't. But that doesn't mean you can't do it when you are alone. Or when you are with a friend."

"Li-Like you?"

"I'd be happy to be your friend Shining, as long as you're willing to be mine"

"Of course!"

"Then why don't we have some fun, like friends should?"

"Uh, what should we do?"

"Well, can't go play outside, I'm still sore."

"What happened?"

"Oh, uh, I fell, um, down the stair. Yes, the stairs!"

Oh bother, I sound like an abuse victim. Which I am, actually. Fuck damn it. I'm an adult, he's just a kid. Get your priority straight!

"Um, okay, if you say so. What about, uh..."

"What about reading? I've got a few good stories here."

And he's looking down again.

"Shining, what's wrong?"

"I, uh, don't... don't...-sniff-"

Oh stars, he looks about ready to bawl his eyes out! What did I say?

"Um, look, if you don't like reading-"

"I don't know how to read! I'm so-sorry, I told -sniff- you I was stupid, a-and -sniff- simple, not worth your time, I'm so sorry-"

"Whoa, hey, hey, calm down! It's alright if you don't know how."

"It's not! You know how to read!"

"I'm not exactly the best pony to compare yourself to-"

"Exactly! Because you're an alicorn and you're perfect and-

"Perfect? I'm not perfect! If I was, would I have hurt my friend feelings?"

"B-but-"

"No, Shiny. I apologize for making you think you were stupid-"

"No, don't apologize, I'm not worth-"

"Yes you are!"

I place my hoof on his cheek.

"Shiny, you're just six. It's normal if you don't know how to read. I often forget my foalhood is anything but normal. I can help you learn if you want, but you have to stop thinking so little of yourself, okay?"

He stays silent, looking away.

"Okay?"

"...okay."

"Right. See the bookshelf there? There should be foal's book at the bottom, take one you like and I'll help you read it."

"You really don't have to do this."

"Shiny, I insist. That's what friends do, okay?"

He nods at me, and go fetch a book.

Oh, Shiny. Does everypony in the Empire think like that? No wonder the servants look so afraid when they see me.

"Uh, I have the book."

I smile at him, trying to reassure him.

"Good, sit down beside me and I'll help you trough it."

"...The u-unicorn...?"

"Right."

"The unicorn vent, uh, went to the ma... ma, uhm..."

"Mar-ket."

"Oh, right..."

"Don't worry Shiny, you're doing real good."

"My tutor doesn't thinks so."

"Your tutor just want to have progress so he doesn't get fired. If he makes you that uncomfortable, it's no wonder you're not learning anything from him."

"You really think so?"

"I know so. Literally. I had teachers like him."

"Had?"

"My mother learned they weren't doing their job properly."

"Oooh...", he says with a wince of sympathy.

"Yup. The others soon learned that pushing me too hard is counter-productive. They still push me, but they have legitimate reasons to do so."

"I wish my mother would understood that."

"Maybe I could talk to her?"

"Really?"

"Yeah, of course!"

He hugs me.

"Thank-you!"

He suddenly pulls away.

"Oh, sorry, I didn't mean-"

I pull him back.

"It's okay, you silly pony."

I let him go before he a apoplectic fit.

"Prince Solus, an Alban retainer is here for Lord Armour."

Party-pooper. Oh well, there'll be other times.

"Thank you. Well I had fun today Shining! If you are patient, I am sure you will master reading soon enough. I hope I'll see you again soon!"

He gives me a small smile at that.

"Likewise, Your Highness!"

He makes for the exit, but before he leaves I tell him something more.

"Shining?"

He turns his head to look at me.

"Y-yes?"

"You're a wonderful pony, please, stop thinking so lowly of yourself."

"O-of course!"

He then scampers away, beet red.

Oh, Shiny, thank you for showing me there's still hope for this world.

Epiphany-Part 2

"Are you ready to depart, Prince?"

"Yes, Proper, let us go."

We're currently at the gates of the Castle, where a carriage is waiting for us. I hop on after Proper opens the door.

Proper knocks on the ceiling.

"Driver, we are ready to go."

And thus begins my first trip outside the Castle. I look around and I see the countless wonders of Celestiana: colonnades and fresco, plaza with giant sundials, great houses of marble and golds, crimson banners proudly waving in the wind and colourful gardens. Waterfalls that brings rainbows and bridges held up by statues of some legendary creatures. It's awe inspiring. I wonder if Canterlot looks anything like this?

The ponies are hardly as awesome though. Mostly unicorns nobles with earth ponies servants providing shade while they themselves slowly cook up under the Sun. There's also pegasi, but they're pretty much all guards or eye-candy servants.

After a while, we reach the outer walls of the Inner City, what would be called Canterlot in canon, since Celestiana is much bigger, if only because of the monuments. the Outer city sits at the base of the mountain, the Pillar of Heaven, a.k.a the Canterhorn. It was called that due to the city of the "Mistress of the Heavens" being built on it. Anyhow, I turn to Proper for an explanation as to why we're here.

"Proper, what are we doing at the outer walls?"

"Your gift can only be found outside of the limits of the Inner City, Prince."

Really? Oh, whatever. At least I'll get to see the Outer City.

It doesn't take long for the gates to open and let us trough, letting us proceed downward.

Hmm, I guess I shouldn't have expected much. It's... quaint. Pretty medieval-y. Maybe renaissance-y. Just stones and mortar, with shingled roofs. And an open air sewer. Eww. The streets are pretty narrow, even the one we are on.

I guess I should have expected this. After all, with Equestria obsessed with unicorns and magic, more mundane pursuits would be pushed away as irrelevant. As such, while canon!Equestria could be reasonably called modern, or at the very least Victorian, when it comes to their technology, the Empire stagnated.

"Prince, this is our stop."

Uh? I didn't even notice the carriage stopping. Proper and I get out and... ewww, the floor's all muddy. Oh shut up, okay? I lived in the Inner City for all my life, you know? Anyway.

"Can you tell me where we are going, Proper?"

"Fine, if you are so impatient, especially since it is just around the corner, I will tell you."

Finally!

"We are going to the servant market."

The what? The servant market? What kind of name is that? Hey, Proper! Wait for me!

I turn around the corner and I see cages. Hundreds. Filled with ponies. Moaning, scarred, cadaver-like ponies. And the stench. Sweat and blood and shit.

Servant Market. Servus Forum. Oh shit, servus, not sclavus. I completely forget that sclavus wasn't the original word...

Every time I heard or read "servant", it actually meant...

Slave.

'...and the Earth Ponies shall be thy servants.'

Not servant.

Slave.

She enslaved an entire tribe.

'"Choose? Are we getting a pet or something like that?"

"Hmm, I suppose you could say that."'

Not a pet. A fucking slave.

No way. I won't...

But...

I could save one...

"Prince Solus, are you coming?"

Deep breaths, you can do this. Save one. At the very least, save one.

"I'm coming, Proper."

"Now, let us walk around. Lead the way."

"Uh?"

"Well it is your choice, unless you want me to make it for you?"

"No, Proper. Let's go."

We begin wandering the "stalls". The stench is unbearable, they didn't even bother to give them latrines.

"How many do I get?"

"Two."

Good. I'll save two.

But all the others...

No! I can't do anything right now, just focus on what you can do.

I notice that earth ponies aren't the only ones in chains. There's also pegasi, and even unicorns, though their horn have been cut off. Criminals, probably. Joining them is a multitude others: Donkeys, zebras, griffins, diamond dogs...

I'm sure the Empire must have wonderful relationships with its neighbours.

I notice a baby crying.

There are babies too?

Wait, yellow, red and orange?

Is the red one... Big Mac! Little Big Mac!

I approach their cage and turn to the merchant.

"How much for these foals?"

"Ah, Your Serene Highness!" He bows low enough for his horn to scrape the ground. "You have a good eye! The red one promises to be quite the specimen when he grows up."

"What about the orange one?"

"Ah, I am afraid I will have to refuse you, my Prince. That one I'm going to keep for breeding."

Breeding? BREEDI-

Calm down.

"You are going to refuse me?"

"I would refuse even your Mother. Their bloodline is very special, the epitome of what an earth pony is. There are laws guaranteeing our right to our propriety, even from the Celestial Throne."

Oh, right. The one time Celestia fucking place a restriction on her own power, it's to protect this callise d'abomination! Fine!

"Very well, but I'd like to talk to them."

"Your Highness?"/"My Prince?"

"You heard me, now heed my command!"

"Uh, very well, Your Highness..."

He goes to the cage and opens it. I enter, if with hesitation. I am the Prince after all, are they desperate enough to try and take revenge on me? Whatever, I've got to do this. I slowly approach the family, and when I'm close enough that Proper won't hear me, I ask:

"Would you want me to save your son?"

They look at me, bewildered. It's probably the first time in their lives they're asked for their opinion.

"W-what do you mean?", Bright Mac asks.

"Exactly that. Your owner won't allow me to take your daughter, but I can still buy your son, allow him to live a far better life."

"Why would you do this?"

"Because there's still an alicorn in Equestria that strives for Harmony."

"...Please, let us talk about it."

"Very well."

I step back to allow them "privacy". It's not like the cage is that big. While I do my best not to eavesdrop, I can still notice that Big Mac seems entirely opposed to the idea of abandoning his family. After a little while, they call me back.

"Have you decided?"

"Yes."

Big Mac doesn't look very happy. Who would, if they love their family like an Apple do?

Pear Butter looks at me.

"Swear you'll take care of my son."

Wish she was my mom.

"I swear, on the Sun, Moon and Earth, I swear upon Harmony and it's virtue of Laughter, Loyalty, Honesty, Generosity, Kindness and Magic."

Wooh, what's this feeling? Did I just swear a Sacred Oath? I'll have to be more careful about using it in the future.

They stare at me, slack-jawed.

"You know of the Old Way?", Bright Mac asks.

Uh. I guess it would make sense for the earth ponies to cling to the memories of better days.

"Not really, it just... came out of my mouth."

"...You really are an Herald of Harmony."

"More so than the Empress, anyway", I snark.

"Thank you, Your Grace."

"Grace?"

"It's what the rulers of old went by."

Oh.

"I'm honoured, truly. I'll have your son out of here in a moment."

I get out and walk back to the merchant.

"I will buy the red colt."

"Very well, Your Highness."

He walks away, probably to get the deed or something.

"What did you say to them, Prince?", Proper asks me.

"Just reassuring them. A content slave is an obedient slave, after all."

He looks skeptical, but seem to accept my reasoning nonetheless. It's not like I lied anyway, more like a different perspective.

The merchant soon returns with the deed and Proper pays him. Mac is walked out, looking at the ground, but I doubt it's from deference. Here I thought Shiny would be an hard nut to crack.

The merchant present me a... ball? Made of light?

"What is this?"

"It's the anchor for the slave's bounding, Your Highness."

Oh, isn't that going to earn me Mac's trust.

"What does it do?"

"Um, Oh! Of course! It's your first time buying a slave! I'll be honoured to answer your question. The bounding spell makes it impossible for a slave to disobey it's master, as well as forcing them to stay in range of their master influence. For example, a bodyguard would have to stay in sight of their master at all time, unless told otherwise, while a cook or a domestic would be allowed far more leeway."

Fucking. Hell.

"It also allows the master to make the slave feel pain, should they need to be punished."

Disgusting.

"How does it work?"

"Simply channel your mana inside the sphere and it will be absorbed inside your mana font."

Yeah, remote slave control in my Heart of Heart.

I do as he said and the sphere dissolve into strands of mana that slitter inside my horn. Ew, it's all... weird. Blergh.

"Now, would you be interested in buying another slave from my fine selection, Your Highness?"

"No, it will be fine. Proper, come along."

We soon resume our "shopping trip", Big Mac in tow. After a while, we come across a shop claiming to deal in selectively bred pegasi. Right. At least I'll get to save a sexual abuse victim. We enter the shop, which contain a few stands where a few "items" strut about, trying to look good. At least they seem to be treated better than those outside.

"As I live and breathe! It is an honour to have you in my humble commerce, Your Serene Highness."

I wonder if bowing that low is a way of keeping your horn sharp?

"What could I interest you in, my Prince?"

"Do you have any foals?"

"Foals? Well, yes, but they're not trained..."

"That is fine. I seek companions of my age. I doubt I would have use of your more 'mature' articles."

"Oh, of course, how silly of me. They would be in the back, so if you could wait here."

"I would rather have a look for myself."

"Um, well, it's hardly as luxurious as this room."

"And the Outer City is hardly as luxurious as the Inner City, let alone the Castle. I will be fine."

"If you say so, Your Highness, this way."

"If you would, I'd rather be alone."

"Alone!? Why?"

"I have my reasons. This way, yes?"

"Yes, my Prince..."

I proceed to go where I was told to, though Proper decided to follow.

"Proper, stay here."

"What! No, I won't allow you-"

"Stay. Here. Do I need to say it a third time?"

"... Very well, Prince."

Glare all you want, Proper, I don't care. Anyway, let's go.

At least he wasn't exaggerating, the decor is rather drab. It looks like I'm in a prison. Cells included. In each one there's a few foals, of varying ages, but all looking like some exotic bird. They seem rather perplexed to see me walking about, but when they notice the horn they all try to make themselves as small a possible.

"Stop resisting you bitch!", a masculine voice shout.

What the hell is going on? I rush to the source of the voice, crying becoming audible.

I finally reach the source and my blood runs cold when I see it.

"Huh? Who let a kid in here?", a burly stallion says.

"Look again, dumbass! That's the fuckin' Prince!", a thinner, gangly stallion reply.

"Oh, uh, Your Highship, you here to buy? I'm afraid this one ain't ready yet, still too savage."

"Yeah. Oh, Would ya be interested in watching us break her in?"

...

"Um, m'lord, why ya watching us like that?"

"Leave her alone."

"Uh, wha?"

"Leave. Her. Alone."

"Uh...", he laughs a bit. "That's a good one m'lord-"

"LEAVE HER THE FUCK ALONE, ESPÈCE DE BÂTARDS!"

"We're sorry m'lord! if you want her you can have her!"

"HAVE YOU NO SHAME YOU MONSTERS! I'LL FUCKING RIP YOU APART IF YOU DON'T LEAVE RIGHT THE FUCK NOW!"

"What's going on here?!"

"WHAT'S GOING ON IS THAT YOUR FUCKING MOOKS WERE ABOUT TO RAPE A CHILD!"

"But, Y-your Highness, that's standard procedure for-"

"CALLISE DE TABERNACK DE JOALVERT, ARE YOU TELLING ME THAT'S FUCKING NORMAL YOU CREEP?!"

"Your Highness, how else would we-"

"OH MON TABERNACK, J'VAIS TE DÉCALLISER LA YEULE MON OSTI!"

"Prince Solus, stop!"

"I WON'T, I'LL BURN THIS PLACE TO THE GROUND IF I HAVE TO!"

"You don't need to! Sexual activity with a youngling is completely illegal!"

"Really?"

"Yes, really. Please, calm down Your Highness, and we'll get the guard to arrest this ruffian."

Deep breaths. You can do it Solus, let the fire calm down and return to the font.

I look around and I see that the walls and ground are scorched.

"Did... did I do this?"

"You did Your Highness. Please come with me."

"No, I'll stay here. I... I want to stay with her. I want her as my second slave."

"...Very well, my Prince. You three, come with me if you don't want your fate to be even worse."

They leave and I'm left alone with the crying, shaking filly.

"Everything will be fine, I promise."

She doesn't seem to even hear me.

I hug her, wrapping my wings around her and petting her mane.

"I swear," I whisper in the ears of the pink filly, "I swear I'll protect you."

I continue to whisper reassurances, as I pet her purple, yellow and pink mane.

"I swear I'll make sure this never happens again. Never."

Mother...

You're not Celestia. You're just a bad imitation. Even Daybreaker was simply an unfettered Celestia. You're a twisted caricature of everything she and Equestria stands for.

I will bring you down,

Corona.

Respite

"Um, Master..."

I look up to see Mac standing in the doorway, looking decidedly nervous. I guess seeing an alicorn near-literally blow up would do that.

"Yes, what is it?", I ask with a soft voice. I don't want to startle Cadance. She's barely calmed down, even now.

"The Guard is here, and, uh, your butler asked for you to come to him."

Right, nearly forgot about those bastards.

"What's your name?"

I can't just call him by his name out of the blue, after all.

"I... I don't have one, Master. We're told only our owner can give us one, if they want to."

Deep, deep breaths. Am I really surprised by this? Anyway.

"Your father has an apple emblem right?"

Yeah, cutie marks are called emblems here. Not that I have a problem with that, to be honest.

"Y-yeah, he does, why?"

"What do you think of Macintosh?"

"Macintosh?"

"Yes! Not only is it an apple, it's also the original name of the Alban Hills, where it is rumoured a very large and influential earth pony community was located, maybe even the original earth pony colony, Earth."

"Really?"

"Yes, really."

Why does he look so surprised?

"Why?"

I raise an eyebrow.

"Why what?"

"Why would you name me that?"

"Uh, I'm sorry if you don't like it. I can offer you something else if you want. Or you could choose by yourself."

"No! It's perfect!"

"Then why...?"

"Why would you give me such a good name?"

Oh. Obviously. How thick can I be?

"Because everypony deserve a name they can love and be proud of."

"What about all the others? I've heard the names masters give their slaves."

*sigh*

"Sometime, what we have is not what we deserve. Some deserve to be happy but only have misery, while others should be miserable while living in the lap of luxury. I'd like to do something about it, but I can't. Not yet. Do you believe me when I say that?"

He looks down, for a moment, rubbing one of his legs, and then looks up.

"...Yeah, you did swear by Harmony. I guess you're not anything like the inbred leeches up the mountain."

"Thank you, Mac."

He looks rather weirded out by the name, but still definitely happy. I guess he was still pretty wary even after the talk I had with his parents.

"Now, Mac, I have a very important task for you."

His ears fold on the back of his head. Um, better try and reassure him.

"It's not an order, or a command, or anything like that."

"What is it, then?"

I tilt my head toward Cadance, still in my embrace, still trembling and quietly sobbing.

"I want you to help her. I don't want her anywhere near the monsters that did this to her, so if you could stay here and comfort her, I would be very grateful."

Surprise again. It would be hurtful, if I didn't immediately remember what him, and others like him, have been through.

"Um, sure, I can do that."

"Good. I leave her to your care then. Be sure to be very careful."

I slowly disentangle myself from the pink filly, making sure I don't startle her. I motion Mac to come replace me as I disengage from the hug. It's not long before we switch place, and Mac looks really awkward. He's probably way out of his depth. Not that I can blame him for that. He's probably not much older than me, maybe even younger, since he's rather tall as an adult, he might be tall for somepony his age.

I lean toward Cadance and tell her in a soft voice:

"Don't worry, I'll be back soon, and when I do, those who did this to you will never be able to harm you again." I look at Mac. " Will you be alright?"

"Eeyup."

Eh. I guess Mac is still Mac, no matter where or when.

I nod at him and then proceed to the lobby of the "shop".

"Hail, Sire!"

The guards all salute me as I enter the room.

"At ease sir. You wanted to see me Proper?"

"Yes, Prince. The guards need a verbal order to make the arrest official."

"Very well. These three, and I presume all the other employees, are to be arrested on the account of sexual violation of minors, as well as other charge that will have to be determined."

"Understood, Sire. What shall we do with them?"

"Um, I just told you, arrest them."

"Prince Solus," Proper interjects, "they are asking for your judgement."

"Judgement? I'm not a judge!"

"Actually, you are. You can do whatever you wish with them."

Really? So I can just punish them, without bothering with any judicial procedure? Sweet! But...

Ugh, I can't do that, if I do I'd be no better than Corona. Fuck damn it!

"I want them to be tried in court."

The officer looks confused.

"A trial, Sire?"

"Yes, a trial. They might lower themselves by ignoring the law of the land, but I won't. They'll be given a trial so everyone can see their guilt and that the trust invested in me and the Empress is warranted."

"Understood, Sire. Men, bring these criminal scums to the dungeons!"

"Officer, I also want you to find the spell anchor for the filly those two were harassing."

He salutes.

"Yes, Sire!"

*sigh*

What a mess. Still, I got Cadance and Big Mac, and I know where Applejack is. I'm sure Corona doesn't understand the advantage she just gave me.

"Let's go home, Proper."

"Yes, Your Highness."

Fuck social convention. Can't let a slave in the carriage, he says. It would be a scandal, he says. Yeah, and she just nearly got raped, what do I care?

If only Proper was on my side, things would be so much easier.

At the very least, thanks to the Guard accompanying us back to the Castle, the trip was swift and uneventful.

"Proper, could you go tell the Empress that I'll be late for the feast?"

"My Prince, you cannot-"

"Yes I can. I am sure she will understand when you tell her what occurred today."

"Very well, Prince."

He leaves, and I turn to the other servants.

"As for the rest of you, I'd like to have my privacy with my new acquisitions."

And with that, the rest of the staff leave the room. Good.

"Is she any better, Mac?"

"Not really, Master."

*sigh*

"Unfortunately, I can't stay. I gave myself a little leeway with Proper, but I'm still expected to make an appearance. It is my own birthday, after all." I give Mac a little smile. "You don't have to call me master when we are in private, by the way."

"Uh, but-"

"No but. Call me Solus."

Is that going to become my catchphrase or something?

"Okay, Mas- Solus."

"Thank you. Anyway, come with me and bring her with you."

He tries to do as I said, but Cadance refuses to walk. Or stand. Poor thing. I help Mac lift her up and I guide them to the bathroom. The bathroom is a rather large room with a golden tub and shelves full of herbs and perfumes and whatnot. And that's it. Oh, the money the Throne could save...

"What are we doing in here Ma- Solus?"

"This is the bathroom."

"Bathroom?"

"Yeah, this where you take a bath, wash yourself, you know?"

"No. My owner just threw water at us until we smelled less."

I wince. I hate being insensitive like that, but being a prince and a former human with a much higher tech level and expectations makes it much harder not to be.

"Sorry, I'm just not used to the whole... slave thing. I didn't even know slavery existed until today."

"Are you serious!?", he shouts.

Well doesn't he look happy. And so does Cadance. I hold her a little tighter to reassure her.

"Yes I am. I hadn't even seen any earth ponies before today. And I was stupid enough to think that earth ponies were only 'servants'. If I had known..."

"Oh, uh, sorry, I shouldn't have shouted."

"No, it's okay. If you weren't angry I'd be worried something is wrong with you. At any rate, let me draw your bath."

I use my magic to pump water into the tub. Yes, pump, did you think they had that kind of plumbing? Fortunately, it doesn't take that long to fill up the bath. I take a set of mobile steps and place it close to the tub. Mac climbs on it and place his hoof in the water.

"Brrh, it's cold!"

"Of course it is", I reply with a slight chuckle. "I haven't heated it yet."

He scratches the back of his head, sheepish.

"Oh, okay."

Now, for the hard part. Usually servants bring hot water from boilers, the same that heat up the public bath of the Castle. I don't have the time, strength or desire to do it that way. Thus, my only option is a heating spell.

Deep breaths, reach for the mana. Push it out, inside the water. Ignis!

The word isn't necessary, but it help focus the mind on the desired effect, in this case "fire", or more accurately, heat.

"Try again. It should be hot enough."

He dips his hoof again.

"Yeah, it is! That's amazing!"

"That's magic for you. It's not for nothing it's so easy for the nobles to believe they're superior."

"Uh, they aren't, right?"

"Of course not. It doesn't matter if you have power, it's what you do with it that does." I take a bottle from one of the shelves. "Here. This lotion will make it easier to wash your coat. Pour it directly on your skin and rub. Don't try to make yourself entirely clean, it's unlikely you'll be able to do so. When the water becomes too dirty, flush it by removing this", I point at the plug. "When you're done, use the cloths suspended there to dry yourself. Did you get all that?"

"Eeyup", he says, nodding.

"Good. Once you're done, find my bedroom. According to Proper, the servants prepared beds for you at the foot of mine. I'd rather provide you with real bed but-"

"It's okay. S'not like the ground is any better."

"Right... Anyway, do you have any questions before I go?"

"I don't think so."

I clap my hooves.

"Perfect! I'm already way too late as it is, didn't even get dressed, oh she'll be so pissed..."

"Go, Solus. Don't want you to get in trouble on my account."

"Right!"

I rush outside, passing by my dressing room and getting my regalia in my magic, putting it on as I run toward the Ballroom.

"Sire!"

"Open the *uff* door, please."

"Are you sure?", one of the guard asks me.

"Maybe *ufff* give me, a minute."

Oh, this isn't good. Now I'm late and improperly dressed. Let's face the music.

"Open the door."

They open it and I trot inside.

"Finally decided to join us, Our son?"

Oh, stuff it, you witch.

"Yes, Mother. I'm dreadfully sorry, Mother."

I quickly reach the dais and the head table, but Corona stands before I can go around and take my seat.

"We heard that you had quite the interesting day."

"Y-yes, Mother."

Corona lift her gaze to look over the guests.

"Dear subjects, hear Us! Our son, all on his own, brought justice to those that would seek to subvert the Imperial Order! Those that would seek to abuse their privileges for their own gain are a taint that must be purged from the Empire! Hail to you, Prince Solus!"

"Hail!", the nobles chorus out.

"Now, sit and enjoy the rest of the evening! You deserve your respite."

I do as she says, and as soon as I do she leans toward me.

"You lived up to your potential today, Solus. Continue to do so and make me proud."

Fuck you. Like I'd fall for that again.

"Thank you, Mother."

"How are your new acquisition?"

"Well, Mother."

"Good. Solus?"

"Yes?"

"Disappoint me and I will confiscate them."

...

Oh, callise! Why didn't I think that...

Why do I keep my hopes up that you might you might have a heart, somewhere deep down?

"Yes, Mother..."

Never. By Harmony, you'll never hurt them.

And one day, I'll make sure you won't harm anyone else. One element at a time.

Author's Note

Thank you for reading this far! I wanted to address a concern some readers had:
While Solus is a self-insert of me, he is still a character inside the story, prone to what TVTropes would call a case of Unreliable Narrator. As such, because of what he sees of and experiences from Celestia, it is unlikely he's being fair in his assessment of her. Not to say she isn't evil, or even good. She just is what she is, and Solus will come to learn what exactly this entails.

Stars and Shield (Shining Armour)

"Dear subjects, hear Us! Our son, all on his own, brought justice to those that would seek to subvert the Imperial Order! Those that would seek to abuse their privileges for their own gain are a taint that must be purged from the Empire! Hail to you, Prince Solus!"

Huh? What did he-

"Hail!"

Oh no! Oh, please don't be mad, please don't be mad, please don't be mad...

"Now, sit and enjoy the rest of the evening! You deserve your respite."

I look up at Mom to see her glaring at me.

"Shiny, that was extremely rude!", she hisses.

"Sorry, Mother! I was just-"

"Don't make excuses! How many time must I tell you that?."

I lower my head in shame.

"Yes, Mother. Sorry, Mother."

"We'll talk about this when we're back home."

Stupid, why am I always so stupid...

"You're a wonderful pony, please, stop thinking so lowly of yourself."

Right, he believes in me. I can do better. I have to do better. I look at the head table, where Solus seems to be talking with his mother. Um, what did she just say? His face scrunched up like he swallowed a lemon or something. Oh, I hope it wasn't anything too bad. I know I don't like it when Mom admonishes (yell at) me.

"Shiny, stop staring and eat, you're being impolite!"

"But Mom-"

"Shiny!"

Ugh, I hate melted cheese. It's just so... cheesy. I take a bite out of the omelette and... Blurgh. I'm going to be sick...

"Stop being childish, Shiny! It's not that bad!."

"I don't see you eating it", I grumble.

I stop, looking up at Mom...

Oh no! Please- Ahhg!

"What was that?", Mom asks me, her horn still glowing.

Don't cry, she'll just hurt me more if I cry.

"Nothing, Mother..."

"That's what I thought. Eat up, you've embarrassed me enough as it is."

Solus wouldn't have hurt me. He'd understand. Why can't you! If an alicorn isn't perfect, why must I be? I hope she's born soon, that way you'll finally be off my back! Let her have all your attention, I don't want it!

But she isn't yet. So I must endure. Uhg... so cheesy...

Finally! The feast is over!

"Mother, can I go see the Prince?"

"Of course, Shiny."

Yes! Let's make a run for-

"Shiny?"

Horseapples!

"Yes, Mother?"

"You're lucky the Prince is so forgiving. Try not to repeat yesterday's mistake. Again."

"Yes, Mother..."

Don't you think I already know that!? I don't even understand why he'd want to be friend with an unwanted, stupid...

"You're a wonderful pony, please, stop thinking so lowly of yourself."

...

Why... what does he sees in me...

I shake my head. It doesn't matter. He's waiting for me. I may not know why he chose me, but I can't disappoint him. I can't let him see how useless...

I trot at a brisk pace to where the Prince (Solus) is sitting. When I get close, he looks up and his eyes open up wide. He looks a bit surprised but also... happy? Yes, happy, not that I really know why...

"You're a wonderful pony..."

Why? Why am I-

"Shiny?"

"Uh, y-yes?"

He laughs. Oh no, is he laughing at-

"I said hello, you silly pony! Stop being so panicky all the time."

He just...

"Oh, um, hi...? I mean! Hello, Your High Sereneness! I mean-"

"Calm down, Shiny, it's okay."

"But-"

He raises his eyebrow.

"Shiny."

Right, no but.

"Sorry..."

"Don't be." He smiles. "Maybe it will get through your thick skull one day, uh?"

Don't count on it...

"So, what did you do after you left?"

"Oh, uh, nothing much, just my usual lessons."

All of them. With only half the usual time.

"Of course you have to do all your lessons today, Shiny! What if you fall behind, Hmm? What then?"

"What did you do? You told me you were going to get a gift, right?"

"Oh, uh... Yeah."

Why does he looks so... uncertain? I've never seen him like this.

"What was it?"

"Um, slaves..."

"Really? Wow! Mother would never let me have my own..."

She'd say I'm too weak and I'd be the slave and the slave would be the master...

Why is he looking at me like that? Did I say something wrong!?

"W-what is it like?"

"I got two, an earth pony colt and a pegasus filly."

"Two! That's awesome! What are they like?"

"I don't know, didn't have the time to get to know them."

"What do you mean by that? What is there to know about a slave?"

He winces, and looks away. Oh no! What did I say?

"Shiny... No, just... just forget about it, okay?"

Nonononono! I disappointed him, didn't I? So stupid, I always mess up...

Don't cry, don't cry...

*sob*

"Shiny?"

Why am I so pathetic? what's wrong with me...

Warm. Soft. He's hugging me? Is that... his wings? They're so soft...

"Don't cry, Shiny. I'm not mad at you."

He's not? Why not?

So soft... no one hugged me like that before. Did... did my parents ever hug me...?

"Chin up. I'm not mad because you're my friend."

How-

"It's in your eyes. I'm sorry I didn't realize sooner, I was out of it because of... today."

My eyes? Am I really that easy to read?

"Now, as much as I like hugs, we should probably stop. We're already attracting some stares."

Oh! I let go of him immediately. Stupid, now we're both emba-

"What about I go talk to your Mother?"

What? No!

"No!"

"Don't worry Shiny, I'll just tell her to go easy on you, nothing more."

Nothing more? She'll go ballistic! She'll say I'm a whiny, ungrateful brat!

"Come on!"

No! Please stop! I run after him, hoping to stop him before-

"Evening, Duchess."

Oh no...

"Oh, Prince Solus, to what do I owe the pleasure? I hope Shiny is behaving..."

Please stop glaring at me...

"Oh, don't worry! He's a delight to have around."

Really...?

"Really? Well, just say the word, and I'll have a talk with him."

Why is he smiling like that? It's... wrong and... scary...

"Yeah, about that..."

"Yes?"

"Don't you think you're pushing him too hard?"

"Too hard? Of course not! Whatever he told you, he's just trying to be lazy."

Don't... Don't cry...

"There's a difference between lazy and overwhelmed."

"And what would you know? Um, Your Highness."

"I would know that since my mother got rid of the fools who were pushing me too hard, I have been progressing by leaps and bound."

"Of course! But Shining isn't an alicorn, my Prince."

"All the more reasons to be easier on him. Too much, and he might break."

"Are you saying my son is weak?!", she hisses.

"Are you?", he says, calmer, but still with a definite edge to his voice.

"Why you-"

"I'd like to propose a deal, Duchess."

Uh?

"Wha-? What is it, my Prince?", she grounds out.

"Let Shiny be taught by my tutors and let them tell you if he needs to be pushed harder or not."

What?!

"What?!"

"Shining Armour! Your Highness, are you serious?"

"Yes, entirely serious."

"Well..."

"Are you questioning the worth of my words?"

"Of course not, Your Serene Highness!"

"Then do you accept?"

Please say yes...

"...Very well, my Prince."

"Good. Send him to me tomorrow morning."

"As you command, Your Highness. Excuse us, it is getting late, we would not want Shining to be too tired to learn tomorrow."

Solus looks at her dubiously, but still nod.

"Of course. Farewell, Duchess."

He turns to face me, a smile on his face.

"Shining Armour, I'll see you on the morrow. Have a good night!"

I can't believe I'm friend with him...

"Y-you too, Prince."

"Come along, Shining Armour."

"Yes, Mother!"

"What did you tell him?!", Mother shrieks.

"Nothing, I swea-"

Slap!!!

"DON'T LIE TO ME YOU UNGRATEFUL BRAT! WHAT DID YOU TELL HIM!"

"I ju-sniff-just told him m-my teachers were, were -hurk- ma-making me uncom-uncom- nervous."

"NERVOUS!? IS THAT ALL?! YOU EMBARRASSED ME IN FRONT OF THE ENTIRE COURT, IN FRONT OF THE EMPRESS HERSELF, BECAUSE YOU FELT 'NERVOUS'?!"

"N-no, I-"

"SILENCE!"

*gulp*

"It doesn't matter. They'll see soon enough why I'm being so 'hard' on you."

"W-why do you care? She'll be born soon and I won't be your heir anymore."

"Maybe, but that doesn't give you an excuse to be lazy! You must give your all to insure our family's future! By some absurd miracle you managed to befriend the Prince. You can be sure I won't let you squander that opportunity!"

"O-opportunity?"

"Are you really this stupid? We can use this bond to ingratiate ourselves with the Royal Family! Are you too simple to understand what we could do with this?"

"B-but he's my friend, I don't want to use-"

Slap!!!

"So unbearably naive. Do you really think he cares about you? He's simply making sure he has our family on his side!"

"N-no, you're wrong! Arghhg!"

"Do I need to use the Discipline Spell again?"

"No, Mo-mother."

"Good. Go to bed, and for the sake of the Sun, please grow up."

"Shiny, you're just six."

"Become the stallion you were meant to be instead of the whimpering brat you are now."

"You're a wonderful pony, please, stop thinking so lowly of yourself."

"Yes, Mother, I will."

I will become the stallion Solus sees. I promise. I'll always be there for him, the only one who cares for me, even if he has no reasons to.

"Shiny?"

"Dad?"

"Yeah", he sits on the edge of my bed. "Please, forgive your Mother. She has very good reasons to be so demanding."

"Yeah? What are they?"

"Me."

What?

"What do you mean, Dad?"

"Shiny, have you ever wondered why I don't show myself in public much?"

"Uh, not really..."

"It's because of what I am. My name, my colors, my emblem most of all. Having a lunar emblem, Fate must really hate me..."

"W-what's the problem with having a moon for an emblem?"

"The problem is that the Moon is associated with Evil and Corruption. Many thought, and many still think, that I was an agent of Darkness. Your mother and I married for love, but she had to endure the social fallout of doing so. Ever since then she has been trying to keep our reputation intact."

"Oh, I... I didn't know..."

"We are so worried you or your sister are going to have an emblem similar to mine. She might be harsh, but she really does love you."

Does she really...?

"Why did she never say it?"

"Huh?"

"She never told me that she loved me."

"Uh, well, it's, well... it's just she never, um... She does love you, I'm sure of that."

"...Goodnight, Dad."

*sigh*

"Goodnight, son."

He kisses me on the forehead and leave.

Does she love me? She never hugged me, not like Solus...

What would he say? Should I give her a chance?

But she wants me to use Solus...

"You're a wonderful pony, please, stop thinking so lowly of yourself."

Would a wonderful pony hate his mother?

*sob*

I don't know...

Please, Solus, Celestia, anypony, just...

Tell me... please...

Adagio

"Y-you too, Prince."

He scampers away, following his mother.

I hope I got through to her. I'd hate for Shiny to snap because of her.

At the very least, I'll get to leave soon, considering many are following Velvet's lead.

"You are playing a dangerous game, Solus."

"Maybe", I reply to my mother, "but I'm sure he's worth it."

"Hmm, an Insight?"

A what?

"I guess?"

"Interesting... maybe she is really too hard on him..."

She shakes her head.

"Well, we shall see soon enough, considering you offered the services of your tutors."

"That's not a problem, is it?"

"Is it? It's not like they are doing anything right now. It's not because it's your birthday that they get to lay about, doing nothing."

That's one way of looking at it. Anyway.

"Can I be excused, Mother?"

"Hmm? Yes, yes. Goodnight, Solus."

"Goodnight Mother."

She seems pensive. I don't like her pensive. Let's go back, I don't to want to leave Mac or Cadance alone any longer than I need to.

Though I'll preempt a possible source of trouble.

"Proper?"

"Yes, Prince?"

"You've done a great job today. You can take your leave early."

"I... Very well, my Prince."

He leaves. Great! I hope the staff will be as docile.

They were as docile, fortunately, and I now find myself alone with Mac and Cadance. Mac is standing before me, but Cadance is laying on their bed, still as a rock. Their bed, was it so hard to procure two beds? I know, I know, ask stupid questions...

*sigh*

"How is she?"

"Bad. She won't peep a word."

"Right... what a mess."

"S-Solus", he trip on the word. "What did you do to..."

"They'll get a trial."

"A trial? Why?"

"I can't be like her, like the Empress. It would be to easy to take justice into my own hooves and turn it into selfish vengeance. If one alicorn can fall, what would... would prevent me from becoming like her?"

"You're nothing like her!"

"Because I don't allow myself to. Make no mistake about this Mac. She might be harsh, but my life is still something out of a fairy tale. She... she might be a tyrant, but she's a competent one."

"What are you saying?"

"That it would be much easier to give in."

"But you wouldn't, right?"

I keep silent.

"Right?!"

"...I don't know. It's easy to say that I would fight for Harmony, but will I stay true to that sentiment under duress? I don't know."

"If it's so hard, then why did you help us?!"

"Because I'm not stupid."

"What?"

"Only an idiot would choose evil. All those ponies claiming that optimism and idealism are stupid and childish, they do not realize they hold themselves back. Selfishness and cruelty are counterproductive. Oh, you might live a luxurious lifestyle by being selfish and cruel, you might win, you might even be remembered as a hero. But in the end, what's the point? You hoisted yourself up? Good for you! But what about the others? All those that suffered because of your actions? Even if you don't care, you still lose, for what will you leave behind? A legacy of misery? I'd be far more satisfied by helping make the world a better place. It might not be as easy, or even enjoyable, but it is definitely far more fulfilling. That's why I swore I'd never let myself be cruel, or cowardly. It isn't worth it. But I'm not arrogant enough to think that I will always think that way."

"But... why tell me?"

"You'll keep me grounded. You suffered so much in so little time... you will keep me from elevating myself beyond the common pony. Beyond, to the temptation of saying 'the end justify the means' without thinking about if the end itself is justified. You will be Honest and keep me in Harmony with the rest of the world."

"Really? But I'm just-"

"A slave? Are you going to let the Empress tell you what you are capable of?"

"N-no."

"Then do you accept?"

"Accept?"

"Of course. Why would I force my friend to do anything?"

"Friend?"

"Yes. If you want to."

"I do!"

I smile.

"Good. Then, as your friend, I promise I'll always listen. Do you promise to always tell me your Honest opinion?"

"I-I do! I promise!"

I hug him.

"Thank you, Macintosh."

"It's... It's nothing."

I let go.

"No. It's everything."

"If you say so..."

"I do, and I mean it."

He looks away, at Cadance.

"What about her?"

"...I don't know. I'm not a mind healer. The only thing we can do is be there for her."

"Oh..."

"The Empress might claim to be a goddess, but I know that alicorns can't perform miracles."

*sigh*

"We had a long day, let us rest."

"Will she be able to sleep?"

Hmm...

"Maybe..."

There has to be something about it...

I sit on the edge of the bed, petting Cadance mane.

Reach for the font, harmonize. Think about...joy, Love...Kindness...Home...

I begin to softly sing:

"La maison est derrière

Le monde est devant

Nombreux sentiers ainsi je prends

À travers l'ombre

Jusqu'à la fin de la nuit

Jusqu'à la dernière étoile qui luit

Brumes et nuages

Noyés dans l'obscurité

Tous va se mêler

Ooooh tous va...

se mêler."

I did it! I performed a Heartsong! YES!

"...what did you sing about?", a voice whispers.

"I sang about leaving the world you knew, how... hard, it is to do so, of the journey before you come home again."

"...did that happen to you?"

"...Yes..."

A pause.

"...thank you...for saving me..."

"Will you be alright? Is there anything I can do?"

"...i don't know..."

"That's okay. Just know that we'll be there for you. Me and Mac."

"...could you...give me one?"

"Give you what?"

"...a name..."

"Um, sure."

Sure I could give her "Cadance", but how do I justify it...

"What about Cadance?"

"...cadance?"

"Yes. You're one of the only ponies who witnessed a Heartsong in nearly a millenium, and I've got the feeling you could perform them too."

"...really?"

I smile.

"Yeah, really."

"... i love it, thank you..."

"Everybody deserves a good name. Rest now, tomorrow is a new day, full of new things."

"...Okay."

I kiss her on the forehead.

"Goodnight, Cadance."

She smiles. It's a little thing, but it was worth the effort.

I rise and turn to Mac.

"You too, Mac. Goodnight."

"You're not going to kiss me, are you?"

Cadance giggles softly. It's a wonderful sound, like little bells.

I shake my head.

"No you silly pony. Get to bed!"

"Okay, okay."

Cheeky little thing. Still, I'm glad he's comfortable enough to do this kind of thing.

I slip under the cover of my bed.

Tomorrow is indeed a new day. It might be worse than today, but it could also be better.

At the very least, I've got four elements now.

Loyalty. Honesty. Kindness. Magic.

Just two more.

Lesson One

I wake up, not that I really want to. Ever since I was reborn in this world I've always woken up with the morning Sun. Come on, let's get up. Brrr, cold. A bit of stretching and....ahhh. Now that I'm ready to get ready, let's get Mac and Cady woken up.

I move over to the side of their bed. Oh, they look so cute, cuddled up together like that. It's good to know Cadance isn't touch-phobic, that would have been complicated to take care of. I'm nearly tempted to let them sleep. Nearly.

I lean right beside Mac's ear.

"Wakey, wakey, Macky."

His ear flick and he moves a little.

"Mgnn... Mom... too...rly..."

Oh, isn't that a shot right to the heart. We'll save her, Mac. I promise.

"C'mon Mac, time to wake up."

He finally opens his eyes. He looks at me, his gaze full of confusion.

"Wha...where am I?"

Is he thinking that yesterday was a dream? Can't really blame him if it's the case.

"My room, Mac. Remember?"

He blinks a few time and finally understanding fill his eyes, as well as sorrow.

"It...it wasn't a dream?"

I place a hoof on his shoulder.

"Sorry, Mac."

"Don't. Just...just don't. I'll be fine."

I'm not so sure about that.

"I know it has been just a day since we met, but I'm there if you need to talk, okay?" I look at the other occupant of the bed. "That goes for you too, Cadance."

Of course she'd wake up. I don't think her sleep was very restful, if the dark circles under her eyes are any indication. Seems it will take more than a Heartsong to help her.

"Okay", they both say.

"Right. Now, up you two! We've got a long day ahead of us and we need to prepare for it."

The door opens, a maid leaning inside the room.

"My Prince, your bath is ready."

"Thank you. I'll be there shortly." I turn to Mac and Cadance. "Come on, follow me."

We exit the bedroom, headed for the bathroom.

"Good morning, Prince."

"Good morning, Proper."

"Go take your bath, I shall bring your slaves to the servant's-"

"They'll bathe with me."

"What? That isn't proper!"

"It isn't, but it's efficient."

"Fine, Prince."

We enter the bathroom and I motion for Cadance and Macintosh to enter the bath first,

"Um, Your Highness...", a maid says, nervously.

"Yes?"

"Do we...do we have to wash...them?"

"Yes.", I say bluntly.

"But-"

"You're not going to die from touching an earth pony. Now stop being childish, that's my job."

"V-very well, Prince."

Resist the urge to sigh. They don't know any better.

Let's get on with this.

Hmm, I feel like a pretty little pony. Which I am. Would have thought I'd get used to it after all these years.

Now, breakfast!

"What are you two doing? The table isn't for things like you!"

Shit.

"Mister Gourmet, is there a problem?"

"Of course there is! These beasts were sitting at the table!"

Cadance looks about ready to cry, with Mac standing very closely to her, clearly ready to protect her.

"I told them to."

"What?"

"What is the point of personal slaves if they are at the other end of the Castle? They will have breakfast with me, at the table."

"But, this isn't-"

"Proper? Am I not the Prince? Do I not have a say in what is proper or not?"

"O-of course you do, Your Highness!"

"Then, for the sake of practicality, they will eat with me and they will eat the same thing as me. I want them to be in the best condition possible, and proper nutrition is an essential component of that."

The chef bows his head.

"Very well, Your Highness."

Why is nothing ever easy? I move over to Cadance and Mac, leaning close to Cady.

"Are you okay?", I whisper.

She nods.

"Come on, sit.", I say, louder.

We proceed to do so, and a few moments later servants bring us our breakfast. Mhhm, pancakes...

Mac and Cady look positively astonished.

"What's wrong?"

"N-nothing, Master! We just never...", Mac says.

Right, obviously.

"Eat up. I can guarantee you it's delicious. Though... Cadance?"

"Y-yes?"

"Mind swapping dishes with me?"

"Um, no?"

"Perfect!", I say, switching them with my magic.

I look at it. Seems pretty much the same.

I take a bite and...no, it's perfectly normal. Good, if he had botched it deliberately...

Whatever. Pancakes!

"Prince, Lord Armour has arrived."

"Show him to my bedroom, please."

The maid walks out and Shining walks in a few moments later.

I hop off the bed and go hug him.

"Hello, Shiny!"

"H-hello, Solus!", he squeaks out.

Gosh, he's so adorable!

"So, ready to learn?"

"Y-yes!"

What's with the look of determination in his eyes? It's not a bad thing, but...where did it come from? Bah, let's not look the gift horse in the mouth.

...

Is that racist? Well, I'm an equine, but...

Anyway.

"Good! Before I show you your new tutors, I'd like you to meet my..."

What do I call them? I don't want to call them slaves, but Shiny won't understand if I call them friends.

"...companions, Macintosh and Cadance."

"Oh, is those your gifts? I like the pink one, she's pretty!"

Really? Uh. I wonder...

Um, Cadance didn't seem to like it though, she's hiding behind Mac, shaking slightly.

"Uh, Shiny, please don't call her that..."

"Why not, what's the problem with it?"

Kids are innocent, right?

*sigh*

"Shiny, don't call them it, please."

"W-why? Isn't that what we're supposed to call them?"

"Did your mother tell you that?"

"Yes..."

"Well, she's wrong. They are ponies too, just as intelligent and capable of feelings as us."

"But...why are they slaves then?"

Well, ain't that a fucking thorny question.

"Well-"

"Because your Empress is a monster, that's why."

Lard damn it, Macintosh!

"No she's not! How dare you call her that?!"

"She is too!"

"Is not!"

"Is too!"

Well, they are children, I don't know what I was expecting...

"Calm down, both of you!"

"But he started it!", they both say, pointing at each other.

*siiiigh*

"Maybe, but you have to be two to fight."

"Aren't you angry about what he said?", Shiny says.

Not particularly? Can't answer that, though...

"No, because I understand why he said it."

"Uh? W-what do you mean?"

"As I said, they're like us, but they have to be slaves. Would you like to be a slave?"

"N-no!"

"Then why would they?"

He looks down, and remain silent, before raising his head slightly.

"Isn't that what they're supposed to be, though?", he asks in a small voice.

"Shiny, I'm not angry, okay? And they're not. My...Mother...might say otherwise, but I know Mac and Cady can feel the same emotions as me. It's not fair, what they, and so many others, are going through."

"But Celestia-"

"Celestia is just a pony! An old one, but a pony nonetheless."

"But she's an alicorn!"

"So am I! You don't see me torturing foals and pillaging and raping and murdering!", I shout.

Shiny stumbles back, clearly panicking, hard.

"Shiny, I-"

*sob*

"i'm sorry, please don't hurt me, i'm sorry, sorry, so sorry..."

I hug him, wings and all.

"It's okay Shiny", I say in a soft voice. "I didn't mean to shout."

"You're -snrkk- you're n-not angry?"

"Not at you, no."

I let him cry it out and after a while he's calmed down. I let go of him.

"S-sorry, I know I'm a crybaby-"

"You're six.", I deadpan. "Crying is perfectly normal."

"Right..."

"Anyway. Slaves are people too, even the non-equine."

"But why would Celestia allow it if it's wrong?"

"I don't know, Shiny. I wish I knew."

I really do. There's enough evidence to support the theory that Celestia was good once, so I'd really like to know what happened.

"Oh..."

"Anyway, I consider them my friends."

"Friends?"

"Yes. And they can be yours too, if you want." I turn to Mac and Cadance. "Well, if they're okay with it."

Mac step closer to us.

"I am. Sorry for being mean."

"Uh, m-me too. I... I'd like to be your friend."

Mac smiles at him.

"Anyone Solus calls a friend must be worth it. I'd be happy to be your friend, Shiny."

Shining seems weirded out by a slave calling him that, but he looks happy nonetheless.

I get close to Cadance.

"What about you, Cady?", I ask softly.

"Um, what Mac said. I-I would be happy to be your friend too, Sh-Shiny."

"T-thank you. Sorry for calling you pretty-I mean-"

"Calling her pretty isn't the problem, Shiny. She just...had a bad experience with stallions finding her pretty."

"Oh. I'm sorry, I didn't know."

"It's okay.", Cadance reply meekly.

"Anyway, we can't stay here any longer or we'll be tardy. Proper!"

Proper enters the room.

"You called, Prince?"

"Bring Shining to his lesson please."

"Of course, Prince. Come along, Lord Armour."

I smile at Shiny.

"Don't worry Shiny, I'm sure you'll do great."

He smiles shyly.

"O-okay."

I shake my head, amused.

"Have a good day, Shiny. I'll see you later."

"Okay, now let's get us started on you two."

"Uh, what do you mean, Solus?"

Oh, Mac looks worried. How cute.

"I mean we're going to go visit the Court Physician."

"The court what now?"

"The Court Physician. He's the one who make sure the residents of the Castle are healthy."

"Why do I need to go to some fancy-schmancy magic... something? I feel fine!"

"Exactly, you feel fine, that doesn't mean you are."

"Well, I am!"

"Mac, you can't know that. Do you really think your owner cared enough to make sure your environment was sanitary."

"Sanita-what?"

Right, kid. Illiterate kid. I hope I won't make him feel bad all the time.

"Healthy. Even if you feel fine, what about Cadance?"

He visibly deflates at that.

"What about her?"

"Do you really think she's as strong as you? No offence."

"None taken."

"W-well, I... Ugh, fine! Let's go see the physian!"

"Physician. Thank you, Mac."

"Yeah, yeah..."

We head out, toward the Infirmary. It's not that far, since it's meant to be close to the quarters of the Royal family. We soon reach it and I open the door.

"Oh, Your Highness! What can we do for you?", a nurse asks.

"I would like to have my new companions examined."

"Of course, Your Highness! I'll go get the Physician immediately."

She leaves to do just that. I turn to Cadance.

"Cady, If you feel uncomfortable, you just have to tell me, okay?"

"O-okay."

I smile.

"Don't worry. It's their job to make ponies feel better. If they do it improperly, they won't be doing it at all in the future."

The nurse comes back, with a stallion following behind.

"Ah, Your Highness! I presume those two are my patients today?"

"Yes. I want them to be in the best condition possible. Be careful with the pink one though, she... has had issues with wandering hooves."

"Really? Despicable! To do that with a foal... Ah, well, this way."

That went better than I expected.

"Hold still!"

"But it feels weird!"

Oh, Mac...

At least Cadance's examination was done without any trouble.

"Mac, let him do his job."

"But it's all tingly!"

"That's magic, now stand still so I can finish."

And Mac is still squirming.

"Mac! Stand still!", I say.

Wooh, I don't like the feeling I just got.

Neither did Mac, apparently. He's standing straight as a tree and as still as one.

Wait...

Did I Order him?

Oh, shit!

"There, done! It will take a moment before I have the results, Prince. Please wait here."

He leaves and as soon as he do I make a beeline for Mac. I lean in close, but he scoots away.

"Mac, I'm sorry, I didn't... It activated on its own."

"Yeah, right..."

"I swear I didn't... I swore I would take care of you, do you really think I'd break an oath to Harmony?"

He rubs his foreleg, looking uncertain.

"No..."

"I'm really sorry, I didn't know it was so easy to activate. I'll try my best not to do it again."

"Okay..."

*sigh*

I guess that's the best I can get.

"Your Highness?"

"Yes?"

"The Physician is ready to see you in his office."

"Right. Lead the way."

I make to leave, but I turn my head to look at Mac before I reach the door. He's looking away, with Cadance shyly trying to comfort him. Ugh, I really messed up.

I soon enter the office.

"Ah, my Prince, please, sit."

I do as he asks.

"Is everything alright?", I ask.

"Hmm, a bit of malnutrition and a few bruises and cuts, but otherwise, nothing time won't heal."

I breathe a sigh of relief.

"Good. Thank you sir. Will that be all?"

"I think so, Your Highness."

"Then, thank you for your services. Have a good day."

"You too, Prince."

I leave his office and go back to where Mac and Cady are.

"Hey you two."

"Hey..."

Mac...

"The Physician said that the both of you were fine."

"I told you I was..."

*sigh*

"Come on, we're leaving."

"Ah, Prince, you are back."

"Yes, Proper. What is it?"

"What do you wish your companions to do?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, they need to be trained for whatever purpose you assign them."

Oh, like Mac wasn't pissed off enough yet.

"Give me a moment, I want to talk with them."

"What is there to talk about?"

"What they've already learned, what they think they'd be best suited for...There's many reasons why I want to ask them in order to make the best decision possible."

"Very well, my Prince."

"I'll be in my bedroom."

We head inside and I close the door behind us.

"So...", I begin.

"Do we have to?"

Oh he'll hate this.

"Yes. You're supposed to serve me, you'll have to play the part."

"What about a simple servant? Cleaning, dusting-"

"I already have those. Your role must be unique."

"Oh..."

"I did think about something..."

"What is it?"

"You could be my bodyguard."

"Your bodyguard?"

"Yeah. It would give you an excuse to learn how to fight, which you'll probably have to. If you still want to help me, I mean."

"Of course! I...I know you didn't mean...I'll do it. I'll learn how to fight."

I smile a little.

"Good. As for you Cadance, well..."

"Say it, what do you need me to be?"

What?

"What? I don't want you to-"

"You want to help everyone, right?"

"Yeah...?"

"Then I want to help, any way I can."

And I thought she'd be radically different from the show's Cadance...

"Your previous owner probably wanted you to become a concubine or something. And you'll be exactly that."

"What? No, she won't!", Mac says.

"Calm down. A concubine is meant to entertain their master. While usually they do that by more...carnal means, they can also do so in other ways."

"Other ways?", Cadance asks.

"Music and poetry, mainly."

"So I'll learn how to sing?"

"Not just that. You'll also learn how to read and write, very important skills if you want to help me in the quagmire that is imperial politics."

"You want to help with politics?"

"Yes. They'll underestimate you. They'll ignore you if you're in the same room, allowing you to eavesdrop. They'll let you in their quarters if they think you're a maid, where your ability to read will come in handy."

"Oh, that sounds...complicated."

"It is. But that's not all. As an alicorn, would it not be normal for my concubine to be better trained? Literature, philosophy, mathematics, economy, rhetoric! You'll learn all of that! You'll know more than any lady of the Court!"

"You...you really think I can do that?"

"I'm sure of it!", I say, smiling.

"O-okay, I'll try my best!"

"That's the spirit! Is there anything either of you would like to add?"

Mac and Cadance look at each other.

"I don't think so.", Mac says.

"Good, let's go back to Proper then."

We move out of the bedroom and back to the lobby.

"Proper?"

"Have you decided, Prince?"

"Yes. Macintosh", I point to Mac, "will be trained to be my bodyguard."

"Hmm, he does have the stature for it...what about the girl?"

"She will be trained to be my concubine."

"Concubine? Are you not a little young for this?"

Little? Understatement of the year.

"Not in that way. I want to be able to hold sophisticated conversations with her, I want her to sing for me, I want her to help me with my assignments. She will learn all of that."

"Is that not too much, just for a slave?"

"Am I not a Prince? Do I not deserve the best there is?"

"I suppose you do, Your Highness. Very well. You", he says, pointing at a maid, "bring the filly to Lady Aurora Verse. Tell her she is to be taught everything she knows."

Uh, sweet. Aurora was always one of my favourite teacher. I wonder if I'll share a lesson with Cadance?

The maid ushers Cadance out, though I manage to give her a reassuring smile before she leaves.

"My Prince", Proper resumes, "come with me."

"Where are we going?"

"The barracks. I am sure Major Iron Rod would prefer to take care of his training himself."

Definitely not one of my favourite teacher.

"Ah, Prince Solus! I thought you got to be a bum and do nothing for the next few days."

Oh, Iron Rod, how I missed you.

"We are not here for the Prince, Major." Proper says.

"You're not? Who-Oh, is that your new slave? Want to make him your bodyguard, eh?"

I nod

"Indeed."

"What, the Guard ain't enough for you?"

"Not if they're on patrol at the other end of the Castle rather than in my bedroom."

"Meh. Fair enough. Well, no point in dawdling, let's get to work!"

I turn to Mac.

"Don't worry. He's harsh, but fair."

Usually.

"Okay, Master." Mac says.

"Right, come here pipsqueak."

Mac stands before the Major, a determined look on his face.

"Eh, I like the look in your eyes, maggot. I'd let it be in one of my soldiers. Doesn't fit something like you though."

Wait, what?

"Prince, give me full authority over him."

"W-why?"

"To train him, of course! To break him down, and forge a suitable weapons from the remains."

I never asked for that!

"I don't want a weapon, I want a guard!"

"Bah, pot-ay-to pot-ah-to. By the end of this, he'll obey you without second thoughts."

Nononononono...

What do I do? I can't just tell him no, but I can't let Mac...

SHIT! CALLISE DE TABERNACK D'OSTIE!

"I..."

Mac is staring at me, his eyes full of fear.

'Please', he says, moving his mouth, but with no sound coming out.

Forgive me.

"Macintosh...do your best."

His jaw drop, his eyes clearly relaying his feelings of betrayal.

"Ya head him, maggot. Come on, let's get started."

I'm so sorry! I miscalculated! I...

I made a mistake...

Oh, please, forgive me...

Hubris

"SHIT! DAMN IT ALL!"

Lucky me that I learned the fucking Privacy Spell.

"I should have been more careful! Now Mac is out there doing stars know what because I was too surprised to say anything and to stupid to see it coming, and I can't do anything about it!"

I bury my face into my pillow and let out out a scream of pure frustration.

"I've been so arrogant...did I really believe I could play them all like that?"

I shake my head.

"I let the fact I'm an adult in a kid's body get to my head. It was so easy to manipulate them, because they only saw a somewhat precocious foal. But of course they'd catch on, and me, in all my glorious drunkenness caused by my 'achievements' , would be none the wiser about it."

*sob*

"I'm sorry...I'm so sorry, Mac..."

*sob*

Knock-knock

"WHO THE FUCK IS THIS? CAN'T THEY REALIZE WHAT A FUCKING PRIVACY SPELL MEANS?"

Oh, whatever! S'not like being a whiny little bitch is going to help anyone...

I rub my eyes and clear my throat before I remove the Privacy Spell.

"W-what is it?", I call out.

"Lord Armour has returned, Your Highness.", a muffled voice says.

Shiny?

"Bring...bring him to my bedroom."

"At once."

Ugh, I hope everything went well for him at least.

He soon enters and I close the door behind him, reapplying the Privacy Spell.

"Hi, Shiny, how did it go?"

He smiles.

"It went well! Your teachers are way better than mine!"

"That's good to-", I stop short when I notice something on his cheek. "Shiny, what's with the patch?"

"Oh, t-that? I just hurt myself on the way to the Castle and Mister Compendium insisted on treating it."

"Oh, uh, I fell, um, down the stair. Yes, the stairs!"

Yeah, doesn't that sound sincere and something I've never heard before.

"Shiny, lay on the bed beside me."

"Uh, okay?"

He does so, and when he does I look at him, dead serious.

"Who?"

"W-what?"

"Who did this to you?"

"N-no one! I swear!", he replies, his eyes looking anywhere but at me.

"Shiny, please, tell me."

He turns his head away.

"Why? It's fine..."

"Fine!? It's not fine!", I say, standing up on the bed. "I won't let anyone hurt my friend!"

Again.

"Please, Shiny, I don't want you to be hurt like this."

"It...it doesn't mat-"

"Yes. It. Does."

He finally looks back at me.

"Why?"

"Why what?"

He stands up.

"Why do you care?!", he shouts. "What have I done to deserve your attention?! I'm just a stupid, useless-"

"Shiny-"

"I am! I can't even love my own mother!"

He promptly places his hooves on his mouth, falling on his backside.

"Is that who did it?", I ask.

"It doesn't matter", he says, shaking and with tears in his eyes.

I give him a hug.

"Yes it does. Of course it does!"

"Why? I'm j-just a stupid little colt, whose mother doesn't even love him."

Shit, what do I say to that?

"I...I don't know what to say to that Shiny. But I can with certainty say that you are worth it."

"Why?"

"Call it an intuition, but I just know that you are capable of great things, Shining Armour. You just have to believe in yourself."

"But-"

"No but", I say in a soft voice. "It's my fault that your mother hurt you anyway."

"No it's not! She does it all the time!"

What.

"What."

"Uh, I mean..."

"Shiny, that's not normal. At all."

"But father says she loves me!"

"Of course he would! What kind of father let his son believe he's unloved?"

"So not loving her doesn't make me a bad pony?"

"It's...it's complicated. You only have one mother, after all. But you shouldn't allow yourself to be hurt."

"What do I do then?"

I hoped that I would never have to hear that kind of despair in a child's voice.

"I...don't let her hurt you. She doesn't care about you? Then don't care about her expectation. Continue to learn and grow, not for her, but for yourself. Is there a dream you wish to make true, Shiny?"

He blushes. What? Why?

"Um, yes..."

"Well, you, uh, don't have to tell me. But pursue it. And if your mother can't be proud of you for doing so, that's her loss. And I'll always be there to help you."

Hopefully I won't mess up. Again.

"O-okay. I... I won't let you down."

I shake my head.

"No, Shiny. That has to be for yourself. I can be proud of you, but I can't let you do it for me. Do you understand?"

"I have to do this for myself...if I want to grow?"

"Yes. To grow into a stallion that can love himself without depending on the approval of others. Not that you shouldn't seek it, but you shouldn't need it."

"I understand."

I smile a little.

"Good."

I look at the window.

"Um, the celebration will start soon. You should head back home."

"Oh, yeah. Um, I'll...see you later?"

"Yes, and don't forget what I said. Don't try to provoke your mom needlessly either."

"Okay! Bye!"

And like that he leaves the room.

I hope I didn't mess up even more. If only I had someone to ask for advice...

"Prince, Cadance has returned."

What is she going to say? I hope...

*sigh*

"Show her in."

Cadance steps in and I re-cast the spell.

"Solus, is something wrong?"

Am I that easy to read?

"I...I messed up, Cady."

She hops on the bed and place her hoof on my shoulder.

"What happened?"

"I made a mistake. I thought I was cleverer than everypony and now...now Mac is getting trained to become my weapon."

"Y-your weapon?"

"Yes, because a slave obviously can't be allowed any free will! Stupid, stupid, I'm so...stupid!"

"Do you feel sorry?"

"Wha-of course I do!"

"Are you going to fix your mistake?"

"I-I'll try to!"

"Are you going to apologize?"

"Yes! Of course!"

"Then what's the problem?"

"What's the-I betrayed Mac!"

"You didn't mean to."

"That doesn't change anything!"

"Yes it does! Those who...who hurt me, they wanted to hurt me. You didn't."

"That doesn't make it any less my fault!"

"That's not what I mean. They wanted to. You didn't, and you're going to do something about it. That's where you're different."

Am I...?

"Cady...where did that come from?"

She smiles.

"I always tried to help the others when they came back, even the older ones. I always knew when they felt bad and I had a talent to say the right thing."

"Do you think you could use that talent to help ponies become friends?"

"Uh, maybe? I never really tried."

"You should. I've got a feeling you'd get your emblem with that."

"Really?"

"Yeah." I shake my head. "Thank you, Cady. I have to go. I was waiting for you so you'd be ready for when Mac comes back..."

"I'll take care of him, don't worry. Go."

I obey her and proceed to go to the celebration.

I really chose well. After all, Kindness is empathy and the will to act upon it, and true Love only blossoms between lovers who understand each other. Cadance is a shoe-in for the Element of Kindness.

Hopefully. Maybe I just made another mistake...

No. Believe in your friends. That's the whole point of the Magic of Friendship, right?

At least I won't cause a commotion for once. I'm on time, properly dressed and I didn't do anything in particular. The food is exquisite as always and it's time to mingle.

Except seemingly Velvet won't let Shiny near me. Bitch.

Maybe I wouldn't turn him against you if it wasn't so easy!

"Your Serene Highness, what a pleasure it is to see you..."

I think I'll rip one from Vader's book:

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

I hate nobles. I loathe them. I'd rather take a dip in a volcano than talk to them.

Would that kill me? Probably. If it didn't...

Yeah, no, got enough nightmare fuel as it is.

Bed! YES!

Wait, Cadance first, bed second.

"Hi, Cady."

"Solus?"

"Yeah? Who else would call you that?"

"The feast is over already?"

"Yeeeess? What is it, you're worrying me."

"Mac isn't back yet!"

...

What.

What. The. Fuck.

I run to the window looking over the courtyard. I open it, looking for...

There! A red speck slowly moving!

I jump.

"Solus!", Cadance cry out.

I open my wings and glide over to Mac.

Oh, shit. He's panting and sweating like there's no tomorrow and his eyes are glazed over.

"Mac, stop!"

He doesn't stop. It's like he didn't even hear me!

"Mac, I order you to stop!"

He falls over, barely moving.

"Hey, why did you do that?", a voice says.

I look over Mac's body. It's full of bruise and cuts and blood.

"Why!? He's just a child, damn it!"

"So? I told you I was going to break him down!", Iron Rod replies.

"Then you'll stop!"

"Why? He's just a slave!"

"BECAUSE I SAID SO! I DON'T WANT A WEAPON, I WANT A COMPANION!"

"But he's just-"

"ARE YOU TELLING ME YOU ARE NOT FIT FOR THE TASK?"

"N-no!"

"THEN YOU WILL PROVIDE ME WITH THE GREATEST WARRIOR THERE HAS EVER LIVED! STRONG! DETERMINED! CLEVER! AUTONOMOUS! ARE YOU UP TO THE TASK?"

"Y-yes Sire!", he says, saluting.

"Then you will do so! From tomorrow onward, you'll treat him like your own son. He'll be your pride and joy. Succeed, and you'll be rewarded beyond your wildest dreams."

"Yes, Sire! Understood, Sire!"

"At ease. You're dismissed."

He quickly leaves, clearly completely flabbergasted at how a kid manged to brow-beat him like that. I turn to Mac, leaning over him.

"Mac?"

He doesn't respond, still panting and now shivering because of his sweat and the cool night's air.

"Don't worry, you'll be fine, I pro-", I choke, being unable to say that word. "Hold on."

I lift him with my telekinesis, channelling a bit of warmth inside the magical construct. I tow him behind me, running to get to the Court Physician.

"Will he be alright?"

"He should be. He has a severe case of exhaustion as well clear sign of a severe beating, but nothing I can't fix."

My shoulder sag, finally allowing myself to breathe easy.

"Thank you, sir. I'd like to stay with him for a moment."

"Of course, Your Highness."

He leaves, closing the door behind him.

"Mac...I'm so sorry. I didn't mean-no, it's my fault, and you have every right to refuse, but please forgive me."

I grab my head, lowering it against the bed.

*sob*

"Solus..."

I quickly look up.

"Mac?"

"Solus...you swore..."

"I-I know, I'm sorry, I'll do anything."

"You're still...alive?"

"Wha-what are you talking about?"

"Ma always...said that an oath to...Harmony...can't be...broken."

"Really?"

"How...are you still...alive?"

"I didn't intend to get you hurt! And I tried to help you! Too late, but I still did..."

"But...you...abandoned me."

"I did. I'm so sorry. You won't have to endure that again, I'll make sure of it."

"Promise?"

"I...yes. I promise."

"Okay..."

"I'll see you tomorrow, okay? I'm sure Cady will be glad to know you're okay."

"Cady..."

"Yeah. Sleep now, you need a good night's rest."

"...kay."

He nods off.

I'll be more careful in the future Mac, that I can promise without second thoughts.

"Your Highness?"

Proper?

"Yes?"

"Your Mother wants to see you."

Evangelium (Celestia)

"Your Divine Radiance, Prince Solus has arrived."

"Show him in."

What shall I do with thee, Solus?

Minen son looketh awfully nervous as he entereth. Maybe he is not a lost cause if he already realizeth how his attitude is most unbecoming of a Prince of Equestria.

"You wanted to see me Mother?". he says.

"Yes. Some guards informed me that you were throwing quite the tantrum."

"Ah, well, you see-"

"No excuses, just tell me."

"He was hurting my...companion."

"Did you not tell him to train your new acquisition?"

"Well, yes, but he didn't do it the way I wanted."

"And what is the way you wanted?"

"I want a companion, not a weapon. The Throne already have more than enough of those."

"Hmm, I see."

It is only normal, I suppose. He hast no other friends. At least, none that shall not betray hine.

"Is that all?", I say.

"Um, yes?"

"Well then, learn to be more clear in your demands in the future. That shall be all."

"Really?"

"Yes. Unless there is something else?"

"No! With your leave, Mother."

"Goodnight, Solus."

He leaveth at a swift pace. Do I frighten him so? I thoughte I hadde ybeen lax in min discipline of hine. Maybe...

"Hey there little Sunshine. How do you do, there’s a great kingdom, waiting for you..."

Maybe I ought to showen hine more overt affection. It would not do for hine to thinken that I do not love hine. If only I didde not have to hide my plan to get rid of her...

No point crying over spilled milk. He already hath three companions, far more than I thoughte he wouldst have by now. And two of them aren slaves.

Hmm, Duchess Satin hath a daughter, doth she not? What was her name? Sunset Shimmer, I thinke? I am sure she shall make a most excellent companion. A few years older, but far more experienced in the Game. I heard she was quite adept at ruling over her class.

Food for thoughts, though perhaps I shoulde help hine assure the loyalty of Lord Armour.

"Herald, go fetch Duchess Velvet."

"At once, Empress."

"Your Divine Radiance, you asked for me?"

"Indeed We did. We heard your son was now taught by the Prince's tutors?"

"Yes, Empress."

"Then maybe we could use the opportunity to bring them closer together."

"Your Radiance?"

"What would you say if We proposed to make Lord Armour the sworn sword of the Prince?"

The Duchess' face goeth through quite a few emotions before settling on mild disbelief.

"I...we would be honoured, Empress."

"Good. I hope you won't mind if We relocate his residence to be in the Prince's quarters? A sworn sword that is not by his master's side his quite ineffective."

"Ah, no, of course I do not mind, Your Radiance."

"Perfect. Send your son to Our steward and I shall soon make it official."

"I understand, Empress. A thousand thanks for this great honour, Your Divine Radiance. I shall take my leave now, if you will excuse me?"

"Farewell, Duchess."

She boweth and leaveth promptly.

That take care of that, maybe it will even allow me to show minen son minen love for him.

Just a few more years, and I shall get rid of the traitor and I will finally rule in peace, alongside minen son who shall not betray me.

Thou chooseth the name Nightmare Moon, sister of min? Well, the rising Sun will banish the nightmare, once and for all, and Equestria will be free of your discord.

Order shall reign supreme and all will work together for the Greater Good, like it was always meant to ben.

"Empress?"

"Fair tidings to you, Proper Worth."

"Um, you too, Your Radiance. What brings you here?"

"I'd like to see my son."

"Of course, this way."

He showeth me the way to Solus' bedroom and I entere. I go to the side of the bed.

"Mother?"

I lay a kiss on his head and use my magic to adjust his covers.

"Goodnight my son, know that I love you very much. Have sweet dreams."

I turne and I leave, though not before getting a glimpse of his face, where utter surprise is etched. I have been a poor mother if minen own son is this surprised at such a simple show of affection. It would not do for him to turn out like...

Like Luna.

No, never, he shall never be like that ungrateful wretch. Never like that foal who complained about nothing all the time. It's not my fault our subjects saw her for what she was. She brought this upon herself.

Solus is better than that. He will not turn on me for such trivial reasons. He will soon see the value of Order.

I will make sure of it.

Author's Note

Thank you for reading this far! I won't update this daily any longer. I simply needed to get it started and to get it out of my system. I will probably update every two days. See you then!

Bloodline

"Goodnight my son, know that I love you very much. Have sweet dreams."

What the heck was that about?

"Solus?"

"Yes, Cady?"

"Is that normal for her?"

"No at all! She barely even visited me before this week!"

"Maybe she's reaching out to you?"

"She never did it before!"

"Maybe she was too afraid?"

"Afraid, her? Why are you on her side, anyway? Its because of her that you're a slave!"

"I...I'm not on her side, I just think it's sad you don't connect with your Mother."

"Yeah, right. Real sad I don't connect with the mass-murdering tyrant."

"You could help her see! Maybe. Probably."

"Unlikely is more like it. She'd never listen to me if she can't listen to the lamentations of those she enslaved."

"But you're her son."

"Am I? Or am I just a weapon? Just another slave to her 'divine' will?"

"You won't know until you try."

"I...uhhhh...oh, fine! I'll try to talk to her. Whatever punishment she has in store for me is worth it if I can just...show her."

She smiles.

"That's more like it!"

"If you say so. You really should try to use your talent to get ponies closer together. I'll get you a few dresses so nobody will notice you're a slave."

"That'd be wonderful!"

"Eh, it's nothing. Anyway, let's get back to sleep. I might still have the day off, but you don't. Goodnight, Cadance."

"Goodnight, Solus."

"Hello, Your Highness! Here to see your companion?", the nurse says.

"Yes I am. Did he wake yet?"

"I don't think so, but he should soon."

"Thank you, have a good day."

"You too, Your Highness!"

Cady and I enter Mac's room, quietly. No point in waking him up, he needs all the rest he can get.

"He...he doesn't look that bad.", Cadance whispers.

"That's magic for you.", I whisper back. "But the energy must come from somewhere, and it has to come from both healer and patient. It's the reason why a 'resurrection' spell hasn't been made yet."

Mac squirm a bit, before blearily opening his eyes.

"...Solus?"

"Yeah, it's me. Sorry for waking you up."

"S'okay. Cady?"

"I'm here, Mac."

"How did...did your day-"

"Better than yours.", she says with a sad smile.

"Good. What now?", he asks, turning to me.

"Well...do you remember last night?"

"Not really."

"Right. I told the Major that you were to be trained to be a warrior, not a weapon."

He narrows his eyes.

"What's the difference?"

"You'll be trained like a noble would. Not only strong, but also trained to be clever and determined. As you'd imagine, slave soldiers aren't usually meant to be either."

"Oh. Wait, couldn't you just have asked for that in the first place?"

I wince.

"Yes, I should have. I was too caught up in my delusions of grandeur and when Iron Rod did something I did not expect I completely panicked like a headless chicken."

"That sound stupid."

I snort.

"That's an understatement. It's not an excuse though. You don't have to, but please, forgive me."

He looks away.

"You betrayed me."

"I did. I'm sorry. Even if you don't forgive me, I'll still do my best to help you."

He looks back up.

"Well, I did promise I'd help you. Ma always said two wrongs don't make a right."

"No it doesn't. Though...your Ma seems strangely wise for a slave."

"She said it's just traditional earth pony wisdom."

"I suppose it makes sense. That's all they have left. Wish I could get some of that, I think I really need it."

"Yeah you do."

I chuckle.

"I really do...will you be fine?"

"I think so?"

"Good. Then rest. When you're ready you'll have to resume training."

"I'll be ready."

"Alright. Cadance?"

"Yes?"

"You can stay here until your lesson start."

I turn to Mac.

"Sorry I can't stay, my Mother wants to see me for some stuff."

"It's okay, staying here won't me help me get any better. Go do your noble stuff."

"Right. See you later, Mac, Cadance."

I leave quickly. What could ~~Coro~~ the Empress want?

"You wanted to see me, Mother?"

"Yes, I have something to tell you."

"Yes?"

"Duchess Velvet accepted that Shining Armour be made your sworn sword."

"What? Will that not disqualify him from succession?"

"He is unlikely to inherit, especially when you consider the imminent birth of his sister."

"Oh, right. When will he...?"

"His room is being prepared as we speak. When he is settled in he will make his oath."

"Uh, is that why Proper kicked me out of my quarters?"

She chuckles lightly.

"Yes. There is something else, however. I would like you to meet someone. She's the daughter of the Duchess of Cambria, Sunset Satin."

Sunset? Nah, no way.

The Empress turns to one of the guard.

"Show her in please."

The guard nod and opens the door, through which enter a yellow filly, a little older than me, like eight or nine..ish. She, of course, has a red mane with yellow highlights.

Sunset Shimmer stands before me.

Fudgin hell.

She bows.

"Hello, Your Divine Radiance, Your Serene Highness."

"Rise, Sunset Shimmer", the Empress says.

"Um, Mother, why did you want me to meet her?"

"Ah, yes. I simply thought that you have so few acquaintances your age and I tried to remedy that."

"I'm honoured that you thought of me, Your Radiance."

"As you should be. Now, Solus, go and have fun with your new companion."

"So, what do you want to do?", I ask her, perched atop my bed.

"Anything you want to, Your Serene Highness!", she says, smiling widely.

Urgh, can you sound more syrupy than that? I don't think you managed to drown me in it yet.

"Then I want you to tell me what you want to do."

Her smile visibly becomes more strained.

"Eh, eh, well, we could..."

Why is she looking around? Oh, wait. She's trying to determine what I like.

Her eyes lit up. Seemingly she found something. She goes to the bookshelf and pull a foal's book from it.

"What about I read something to you?"

"Already read that one. Two years ago."

I have no idea if that's thank to my experience or my alicorn brain, but I'm one hell of a precocious child.

"T-two years?"

"Yeah. Actually I read all of them. On my own."

Okay, I'm rubbing it in, but she's just so fake. It's buckin' annoying.

"Ohh-kay. Well, uh..."

She looks really nervous. Maybe I'm being too harsh on her? Can't really let my guard down though. Old Sunset plus the positively byzantine political system? There's no way she's not as bad as in canon.

"Oh! We could go to the library!"

"Okay."

Is she grinding her teeth? I guess there's a reason Cady was a babysitter and not her. Not that I'm helping matters, but still.

Being a gadfly is fun.

"See anything you like?"

Not really. It's all reference material, why would I read it? Wait...

"'History and Lineage of the Noble Families'?"

"Oh, you want that one?"

"Yes please."

She gets it with her magic and opens it.

"So, what do want to know? Wait, what the buck?"

"What's wrong?"

"It's all gibberish!"

"Maybe it's enchanted? We are in the Royal Library. Can I have a look?"

"Like you could read-"

"Uh, Velvet Cheese? Wonder if he has something to do with Shiny's cheese phobia."

"Wait, you can read it?"

"Yeah? Maybe it's because I'm the Prince. Anyway, mind if I read this? There's something I'm curious about."

"Not at all. Your Highness."

Wow, she sounds pissed. Wonder if being denied something triggered her?

Anyway, book!

I go to a table and place the book on it, hoping on a chair and I begin to look.

Royal Family, Royal Family...

Ah! There!

'Celestia, Alicorn; Blueblood, Unicorn.'

Hmm, the original Blueblood? Wait, wasn't the modern Blueblood a descendant of one of her relative?

'Issue: Cobalt Sky, Unicorn.'

Hmm, not exactly what I wanted to know. Wait...

'Celestia, Alicorn; Cobalt Sky, Unicorn. Issue: Radiant Dawn, Unicorn.'

What!?

'Celestia, Alicorn; Radiant Dawn, Unicorn. Issue: Blueblood 2nd, Unicorn.'

'Celestia, Alicorn; Blueblood 2nd, Unicorn. Issue: Azure Heart, Unicorn.'

'Celestia, Alicorn; Azure Heart, Unicorn. Issue: Sunshine, Unicorn.'

[...]

'Celestia, Alicorn; Blueblood 15th, Unicorn. Issue: Blueblood 16th/Solus, Alicorn.'

No...

No.

No.

That can't...

I refuse to believe...

I'm...

She's my fucking grandmother! Great-grandmother! And-

Hurkk!

I'm going to be sick. I feel lightheaded. Fuck, why can't I breathe!

"...ey...ou...ight..."

What? Who...

"...lus..."

Huh?

"...olus."

What? I'm tired, leave me alone.

"Solus?"

"W-what?"

Fuck, my throat burns. What happened?

"Are you alright?", the Empress (~~Mom, Gran,~~ sick) asks me.

I look into her eyes.

"Who is my father?"

"What? T-that's not impor-"

"Who. Is. He?"

She bits her lip before answering

"His name was Blueblood."

"Was?"

"He passed away from an illness."

Yeah, right! Like I'd believe that!

"Who is my paternal grandmother?"

"...You already know the answer."

"Why?"

"To give birth to you, an alicorn. And it worked."

Somehow I don't think that's how alicornhood works.

"Am I safe?"

"S-safe? From what?"

"I'm not going to sprout a second head or something?"

"What? Why would you?"

Fuck. They don't know about genetics. I could have any number of birth defects and they'll be totally unable to do anything about it! Hell, some mental illness are genetic!

Joffrey.

Oh, callise! I could end up like fucking Joffrey! Become the Mad King of Equestria! Shit!

"Solus?"

"I'm fine."

She hugs me.

"Don't worry, everything is going to be fine. I promise."

She might actually be sincere about that. And about Father. Passed away from an illness? More like he was more inbred than the Hasburgs at their worse!

Fuck damn it all! What am I going to do? I can't fight that!

No! Being an alicorn might have spared me from that. Maybe.

Shit, I've got no way to know! I could be becoming like her and no one could help me!

I'm shaking like a leaf.

"Shhh, Mommy's here. All will be well, I promise."

This is a nightmare.

How could she-

Will she try to breed me too?

Oh, fuck that! Am I even sane right now? The only people I've been open to are two slaves and someone with severe self-esteem issues, all of them children. How could they tell if something is wrong with me?

What if I'm not human?

What if that's all in my head? A vision Harmony sent me and my mind tried to give a context to it? What are the odds of me being reborn in the world of a TV show anyway? It doesn't make sense!

What am I even doing? Even if I manage to take out Celestia, how am I going to change Equestria? Especially if I can't trust myself to rule after that. Without an alicorn, this world would only become worse.

I can't just do nothing.

"Solus?"

Shiny?

"How are you doing?"

How am I doing? I don't know. Not well at the very least.

"I know who my father is."

"Really? Who is it?"

"My brother."

"Wait, what?"

"My brother."

"But that doesn't make any sense!"

"No it doesn't."

"So, wait you have a brother?"

"Had."

"Um, I'm sorry?"

"Don't be. Never knew him."

"But he's your father!"

"So?"

"But that's not fair!"

"Eheheh, AhahahaHAHAHAHAH!"

"Why are you laughing?!"

"Not fair? Of course it isn't fair! What is fair in this dump!?"

"Solus?"

"Stallion, mares and children die all the time in the name of the Greater Good! They're enslaved for the Imperial Order! They're broken so they'll do the same thing to others! And I'm not just talking about the earth ponies either!"

"Solus, you're scaring me..."

"Nooo, the unicorns are too! Forced to rule, granted countless privileges, turning into self-entitled monsters. You're just as much a slave than Mac is!"

"Stop it..."

"Stop? Why would I stop? It's the truth, and Honesty is one of the virtue of Harmony!"

"Ha-harmony...?"

"Yes, Harmony, otherwise known as the thing Celestia doesn't want you to know about because she's been doing a shit job of maintaining it."

"Solus, stop it!", a female voice shouts.

"Why should I? Ever since I was born I've kept silent and gone along with this abomination! What do I care about your polite fiction about your world actually being worth a damn?!"

"So what are we in your eyes?"

"YOU'RE-you're..."

"We're here Solus, you're not alone", Cadance says.

Yes I am. I'll always be alone. Is that why Celestia went mad? Being the sole immortal...is that why she wanted me so much?

"Leave."

"Solus?"

"Just leave. Please."

"...Okay. Shiny, Mac, he...needs time alone."

I'm alone. And I have to get rid of the only one who could be with me. The one who made me. The one who is responsible for countless atrocities. Responsible for me not even being able to tell if I'm sane!

*sob*

I hate this...

I hate this world.

I hate her.

I hate...

I hate what I am.

Powerless.

Powerful.

Good.

Bad.

Sane.

Mad.

What am I doing? What am I?

Who am I?

Iscariot

Author's Note

Warning: Some bit of this chapter might be a little intense. If a moderator deems it rates as Mature I'll rewrite it, though I've tried my best not to be too explicit. If you're squeamish, skip the double-separation, it's just a dream-sequence.

Iscariot

Well, I've fucked up. Oh my eyes hurt. Is it the first time I cried like that? I think so. Lucky me I told Shiny that crying wasn't shameful. It's not like I was repressing my emotions at all.

Urgh. I'm such an idiot.

Well, in my defence, it's like the universe waited until this week to reveal all the sordid details of my new life: Slavery is a thing, my new friend is abused, Cady was nearly raped, Applejack is going to be bred, My father is also my brother and my mother loves me, maybe even too much.

"So what are we in your eyes?"

What are they? I haven't known them for long. Friends? I do intend to set them up to be Bearers...

I've helped them. Especially Cady. And she wanted to help me in kind.

*sigh*

Who am I? Myself, probably. Even if my memories are fake, my actions are still mine. What am I? A clone of my mother. That's still fucked up as all hells. Well, I've got a lesson out of this: "Do not repress your emotion until you have a mental breakdown, dingus."

What makes it all the worse is that I lashed at two slaves and an abuse victim. It's not like they'd know anything about my hardships, right?

I've got to apologize as soon as I can. And find a book on meditation. I sense I'll need it if I don't want to blow up like that again. As well as find a proper outlet for my negative emotions. My friends are not punching bags.

Maybe I could ask Iron Rod to teach me how to use a sword, even if I'm too young for it yet. Or a warhammer.

Hmm, somepony opened the door...

"Prince?"

"P-Proper?", I say in a raspy voice.

Fuck, my throat hurt.

"Yes, Prince. I brought you tea, to help you calm down."

Uh. How thoughtful. He set down a tray on the foot of my bed and levitate me a cup, which I take in my hooves, since I don't trust myself to use magic right now. I take a sip.

"Blergh! It's bitter!"

"It may be so, but it will help you sleep. But you need to drink it all."

Fine! I'll drink your garbage juice. I try to gulp it down. And I succeed. Though I'm wondering if it wants to make a return trip.

"There, isn't that a good colt? At least for once in your life."

What?

"Um, Proper?"

"Don't worry, you'll sleep a wonderful sleep."

"Right. GUA-"

Mfffphm!

Where the heck did that pillow come from?!

"Now now, don't throw a tantrum, you brat!", he hisses.

What the fuck Proper? Let me breathe!

Look for the font...

"It's no use, brat! The tea was meant to render you impotent."

Shit! I begin to trash about.

"Why not a poison, you ask? Simple. Nothing that could kill an alicorn is subtle enough."

Fuck! My lungs are on fire!

"Now, just lay your little, empty head and-Aaaah!"

*Inhale*

"Koff-koff, arghh, urk...wha-what the -urmph- hell?"

"Get off me you whore!"

He swats something away. It land on the floor in a tumble. Wait...Cady!? I jump off the bed next to her.

"Leave -urph- her alone!", I screech.

"Oh, stop it you brat! Always so selfish!"

"Selfish? I'm not the one trying to murder somepony!"

"I wouldn't if you would just listen! When I first became your majordomo..."

Keep talking, moron. Reach the font, let it flow, purify the streams...

"...I thought I could finally reach the position I deserved. To have the ear of the future Emperor! But you wouldn't listen! Always ignoring me and brushing me away! But no longer! I'll be rid of you and I will finally be able to play the Game again! Free of you and your childish tantrums about 'Justice' and 'Compassion'!"

"Is that all? You got angry a child wouldn't listen to you?"

"'Is that all?' You ungrateful brat! I sacrificed years of my life for you!"

"No you didn't! You sacrificed them for something you felt you were entitled to. I sincerely doubt my mother told you you could manipulate me for your own gain!"

He screams and lunge at me. Seems he's finally out of patience. And out of time!

"IGNIS!", I shout.

He bursts into flame, screaming bloody murder. I help Cady stand and we make a run for the door. Which open right as we reach it.

"What's going on in here?!", a guard shout.

He sees Proper trying to grab us and jump over us, rearing up and smashing in Proper's skull. And here I thought it looked ridiculous when ponies fought on the show. The guard turns to us.

"Sire, are you alright?"

"Y-yes. I think so..."

"I'll have somepony bring you to the Physician."

He guides us out of the room. He calls over another guard, and tells him to bring us to the Infirmary. All the while I kept a wing wrapped around Cadance, to try and reassure her, since she's shaking like a leaf.

"It's okay", I whisper. "It's over now."

We reach the Infirmary and the nurses rushes us in. It's not long before we're both in bed, being fussed over. That is, until Celestia arrived.

"SOLUS!"

Ouch. And I thought I was loud when I used the Royal Capslock. And she's trying to crush me. Well, it's probably a hug, but still.

"I'm fine, Mother. Please stop crushing me."

The hug loosen up, but she doesn't let go.

"Are you sure? Maybe he poisoned you, or-"

"He didn't. He said it would be too obvious."

"He was stupid enough to attack you in the first place."

Fair enough. What was he expecting, really?

"Even if he did, I'm surrounded by healers. I won't die tonight, Mother."

"I...I know. I'm just worried about you."

That's heartwarming. Where was that hidden my entire life?

"I'm tired, Mother. Could I sleep?"

Yes, go away. I'm still not done processing what you are in relation to me.

"R-right, of course."

She reaches down and kiss my cheek. Blergh! No, that's too fucking creepy!

"Goodnight, Solus."

And she leaves. Just like that. Had I known she could be this reasonable in private...

Hindsight is 20/20, right?

I look on my right, to see how Cady is doing. Uh, she's asleep.

"We put her to sleep with a spell, Prince", a nurse says. "We could do the same for you, if you wish."

Somehow, I don't think I'll be able to go to sleep on my own.

"Yes, please."

She nods, her horn lightening up, and I begin to feel drowsy...

What a beautiful day! We are in a grassy field, under a tree. It's sunny and I'm surrounded by my friends! There's Cadance and Mac, playing tag around the blanket, laughing and smiling, Shiny is beside me and I help him read a book, Mom is eating a cake (not a slice, a cake), and Proper...

Proper? Why is he looking at me like that?

Suddenly, he lunges, grabbing my neck and choking me!

"I hate you! You killed me!"

I didn't mean to!

"You made my life hell! All because you can't let go of the past!"

No, you were just a greedy bastard!

"Was I? It's easy to dehumanize your enemies like that. Do you even know if I have a family?"

No...

He begins to burn and melt away.

"I'm burning because of you! You murdered me!"

You were trying to do so first!

"You're still a killer! A monster!"

Only a charred corpse remain. I buck his chest, which caves-in.

"This is your punishment! Suffer for your crimes! Look!"

He picks me up and throw me. I land in front of Mac and Iron Rod.

"Why didn't you help me?", Mac says in a hollow voice.

His body is scarred all over, blood seeping from countless cuts, blackened by bruises that mar his body.

I didn't mean to! I wanted to help!

"You did help! He's going to be a great weapon!", Iron Rod says cheerfully.

No! He's just a child!

"So? Speak up if you want to stop it!"

I open my mouth but my teeth begin to fall out as soon as I do.

"Not able to speak up for the little one? Some friend you are! Hey maggot! Go rape the pink one, she deserves it!"

What? No!

"I can't hear you!"

Mac approaches Cadance and climb on top of her.

NO! PLEASE, STOP!

"Hey, open your mouth, whore!"

NO!

A hoof turn my head away.

"Now, now, don't look at those beasts, my sweet child."

Mother?

She kisses me, her tongue slithering in my mouth. She moans, using her hoof to keep my head in place.

"Isn't that pleasant? Oh look, there's your friend about to be punished!"

Shiny?

"Please, stop, I'll be good!", he wails.

Velvet whips his flank, her face distorted by anger and hatred.

"That's what you always say. Apologize!"

"I'm sorry!"

She whips him again.

"Sorry who?!"

"Sorry Mother!"

Mother kisses me again.

"Isn't this exciting?", she says with a manic grin.

NO! Please, stop it! all of you!

"We can't hear you~!"

"STOP IT!"

"AHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Just a dream, just a dream...

I hold my legs to my chest, shivering. I'm drenched in sweat, labouring to breathe.

"Solus?"

Cady? I hug her, burying my head in her chest, sobbing.

"What's wrong, Solus?"

I whimper, unable to muster the will to respond.

She begins to pet my mane nervously, wrapping her wings around me as best as she can.

"It's okay, it...it was just a bad dream, shhhh."

"Your Highness!?", a nurse says.

"He's okay, he just had a bad dream", Cady replies in my stead.

"If you say so. I'll recast the Sleep Spell."

"No!", I scream.

"Your Highness?"

"I-I don't...don't -sniff- want to-to..."

*sob*

"Don't worry, Prince, I can make sure your sleep is dreamless."

"...O-okay..."

Her horn lights up and she casts the spell.

"It will take longer for the spell to take hold, but it will be completely dream-free."

I nod, still sobbing and unable to speak another word.

The nurse leave, and Cadance try to let go of me. I tighten my hold on her, desperate to have her stay.

"Y-you want me to stay?"

I just bury my head in her chest again.

"O-okay. I'll stay. I'm here, Solus. You're safe."

We lay down, me clutching her in a tight embrace.

"Sleep, everything is going to be okay", she whispers in my ear.

I slowly fall asleep, without releasing my hold on her.

Moving Forward

"Solus, wake up."

"I don't wanna...", I whimper out.

"Solus, if you continue like that I'm going to turn blue."

"Wha...?"

Oh, I'm holding her. Well, more like crushing her. I let go.

*inhale*

"Thank you", Cady says. "Now, let's get up, I'm sure Mac and Shiny would like to know that you're alright."

Alright? Am I? Whatever, I can't wallow in self-pity.

Burning, Screaming...

I shiver, holding my head against Cady shoulder. She hugs me, leaning close to my ear.

"It's okay, Solus. He's gone. He won't hurt you again."

"But I hurt him, I killed him..."

She stays silent for a moment, before leaning back and looking at me in the eyes.

"What would you say if I had killed him, instead of you?"

"I...I would say...would say..."

She rubs my foreleg.

"Would say?"

"That those that seek to kill, should be ready to be killed."

"Do you believe that?"

"Yes! But I could have stopped him without-"

"You didn't have time to think. Hindsight will always be better. You can't hold yourself to that standard."

I close my eyes, letting out a sigh.

"I still killed a sapient being. One with thoughts and feelings."

"You want to free the slaves, right?"

My eyes snap open.

"Of course!"

"Then who is going to kill your enemies? Unless you expected Mac and Shiny to do it for you?"

"No! Of course not!"

"Then you will fight?"

"...Yes. Sorry, it's just...that's in the future, by then I would be an adult and...I dunno, I wouldn't feel bad?"

"I understand. And it's a good thing his death hurts you. It means you care."

"Right..."

Our stomachs took this moment of silence to make themselves known.

"Oh! Uh, we should go get breakfast", I say, sheepish.

Cady giggles.

"Yes, we should."

Ah, home sweet home! Well, more like quarters sweet quarters. Actually, it's more of a suite-

"SOLUS!"

Wha-

Umphhh!

"I was so worried! Are you alright?"

Uh. I thought tackle hugs were just an anime thing. You're so adorable Shiny.

"I was, until I got floored", I say with a grin.

"Oh! Sorry, let me help you!"

He helps me up and try to step back. But I don't miss the chance to hug this adorable -I mean- comfort him.

"It's okay, Shiny. I'm not angry."

"You aren't? But you said all those-"

I let go.

"I wasn't...I didn't mean those things Shiny. I'm terribly sorry I lashed out at you. I shouldn't have."

"Do you...do you really think we're worthless?", he says in a small voice.

"No, I...no. I was just...fed up. You know how I told you that crying wasn't a bad thing?"

"Y-yeah?"

"Well, it was a case of 'do what I say, not what I do'. In other words, I did a stupid."

He giggles a little.

"'Did a stupid'?"

"Uh-huh."

He shakes his head.

"Okay, if you say so. But, Solus?"

"Yes?"

He hugs me tight.

"I-We're here for you, okay?"

"...Okay."

"Good", he says with a smile, letting go. "Now, we were waiting for you to get breakfast!"

"We? Oh, Mac! Didn't see you there, buddy."

"I didn't want to."

"Ooookay. Anyway, everything I just said applies to you too, Mac. Are we okay?"

He stays silent for a moment, and then...

"Eeyup", he says with a smile.

Cheeky colt.

"Well then, enough drama. Breakfast!"

Hmm, pancakes...

Right, enough with the Homer impression, let's eat!

Breakfast is rather silent, though more because everyone is exhausted of drama and excitement rather than it being awkward.

Then, a sudden thought hit me.

"Shiny?"

"Yesh?", he says, with his mouth full.

"Chew and swallow before speaking, Shiny", I say with a smile.

He does just as I said, rather quickly at that.

"Um, yes?"

"What are you doing here? Not that I'm not happy you're here, but..."

"Um, I am to become your sworn sword. Didn't anyone tell you?"

"Oh right! My mother told me that, I just...kinda forgot with everything that happened. Actually, wasn't I supposed to accept your oath yesterday?"

"You were, but the Empress told me we'd just reschedule."

"Good. Shiny?"

"Y-yes?"

I give him a big smile.

"I couldn't have wished for a better sworn sword."

"T-thank you!", he squeaks out. "I hope I won't disappoint."

I pat his shoulder.

"I'm sure you won't. Anyway, what are we all doing today?"

"I've got training with Iron Rod", Mac says.

"I've got a lesson with Lady Aurora Verse", Cady says.

Hmmm...

"Talking of which, would you mind being trained to become my new majordomo?"

"I guess not, but will Celestia accept that?"

"Can't hurt to try. I'd rather not have a second coming of Proper. What about you Shiny?"

"Actually, I think I'll share most of my lessons with Cadance today."

"Make sense. Your lessons started this year, right?"

"Yeah."

"Then you're mostly on the same level. It's a good thing too. Then you'll be more than just the 'friend of my friend'."

"I also have training with Iron Rod later this evening."

"Right...Mac?"

"Yes?"

"Do kindly remind the Major of what I told him, will you?"

"Will do."

"Great! So that leave me to go ask my mother what's the deal with Proper."

"What do you mean?", Cady asks.

"I'm going to ask her why she let a greedy bastard like him become my majordomo. There's no way she didn't know he wished to use me for his own gain."

"That...that is a really good question, actually", she says, frowning.

"Wait, what happened to Proper?", Shiny asks, innocently.

"He...he tried to hurt me. I hurt him back."

"Oh! I hope you got him real good!"

You have no idea...

"Anyway, is there anything else before we go to our respective engagements?"

A chorus of 'no' follows, and we finish our breakfast in peace.

I stand before the golden door of Celestia's quarters, rather nervous. I never came here without being asked to before.

"I would like to speak with my mother", I say to the guards.

"Of course, Sire!", they say in unison, saluting.

They open it and usher me inside. Celestia is sitting on a cushion, drinking what appears to be tea. Seemingly, Celestia is Celestia, no matter what.

"Your Divine Radiance, Prince Solus wishes for an audience."

"Hmm? Very well, leave us."

They bow and take their leave.

"Good morning, Solus. What can I do for you?"

"Good morning to you too, Mother. I would like to talk about...Proper."

"Ah", she says, looking like she ate a citrus. "What about him?"

"Why was he my majordomo?"

"You mean to ask why I let someone this greedy be given such an intimate position in your household."

"Well, yes."

"Because I thought he was too desperate for any kind of recognition to be a threat."

Well, didn't that work out.

"You have to understand, Proper is not a noble, not even close. But he was incredibly arrogant nonetheless. You had to have a majordomo, but the nobility would have been outraged if I had chosen a slave for this position, so I 'compromised'. I chose a freepony, a unicorn, that was not a noble, somepony that would be 'impartial' and removed from the Game."

"Except he wasn't."

"Not particularly, no. No one would be if they could influence a god. So I chose somepony too pathetic and stupid to be a threat. And he was."

I raise my eyebrow.

"He was?"

"Yes. He must have been promised...no matter, all you need to know is that I will take care of everything."

Promised? Promised wealth? By a noble?

Yay, attempted regicide and conspiracies. Now I really feel like I'm in a Game of Thrones story. ~~Including the incest.~~

Anyway.

"Mother?"

"Yes?"

"I would imagine I will need another majordomo, yes?"

"Indeed. Do you have someone in mind?"

"Well, not for right now, but I thought about having Cadance trained to eventually take over that position."

"The pink one? Hmm...well, she's already learning just as much as any lady of the Court. And she will be much more loyal. Very well, I will have her prepared for her role."

"Thank you, Mother."

Yes! No brown-muzzle in my inner circle!

"Was there anything else?"

"No, Mother. Thank you for your time."

She smiles.

"It's nothing", she says, bowing down to nuzzle me.

Bad touch, bad touch!

"Have a good day, Solus."

"You too, Mother."

I have to muster all of my willpower to prevent me from running out of my ~~grandmother~~ ~~grandaunt~~ her room.

So, apparently I'm unable to be touched by her without panicking. Won't that be an hassle.

Anyway, what to do, what to do...

"Your Serene Highness!"

Sunset? Meh, I've got nothing better to do.

"Lady Shimmer", I say with a light nod.

"I wanted to apologize for yesterday."

Apologize? For what?

"And why is that?"

"Well, I am the one who insisted on going to the Royal Library, so-"

"Don't. It was not your fault, and even if it was, I would forgive you."

"Just like that?"

"Just like that."

Is it so hard to believe? Well, she's been in the Game for a few years, and she's more perceptive and smart than most filly her age...

Well, crapbasket.

Anyway, should I try to befriend her? Canon!Celestia did say she grew cruel and dishonest, implying that she wasn't when she first became her student. Hmm...

"Are you doing something today, Lady Shimmer?"

"Wha-No! I am at your disposal, Your Highness."

"Then relax. I want a friend, not a sycophant."

"Very well, Prince. What should we do? Chess? Card games?"

"Hmmmno, what about...tag!"

I boop her on the nose.

"You're it!"

"I'm it?"

"Yeah, that means you have to tag me back!"

"Oookay, here I come, Prince!"

She extend her foreleg but I dodge easily.

"Come on slowpoke! Do you really think I'll just stand there?"

I begin to run, but not before blowing a raspberry at her.

"Oh, it. Is. On."

I might have miscalculated.

"Muwahah, I've got you now!"

"Oh no, Great and Powerful Sunset, please spare me!", I wail.

"There will be no mercy! Now, suffer my wrath!"

"Noooooooo!", I shout, closing my eyes.

And then I feel her hoof on my nose.

"Boop!"

There's a moment of silence, before we both devolve in a fit of the giggles. When was the last time I just played like that? Umm, back in my first childhood, I think.

And I've just made myself sad.

"Uh, Prince?"

"Yes?"

"It's nearly sunset."

*snort*

"Ah-ah, very funny. But seriously, the feast is going to start soon."

"I know. It was nice spending the day with you, Sunset. I hope we can do it again!"

"So do I, Prince. See you at feast!"

And away she goes. Didn't think she had it in her to just have fun. Glad I was wrong! And now to run like hell to my quarters to get myself ready.

"Master, we're back."

"Cadance, Shining Armour! Good! Servants, prepare him for the feast!"

"At once, Prince!", a maid reply.

"So, how was your day?"

"Well, I had lessons with Cadance. She's really smart!"

I spot in the corner of my eye a filly who is blushing. I wonder, when they'll be older...

"That she is. And after that you joined Mac, right?"

"Huh-uh. Mac is really impressive. He kept going even when I was completely exhausted."

"Well, he is an earth pony. That's kinda their shtick."

"Shtick?"

"Their thing. Endurance and strength. Don't feel bad you couldn't keep up. Just do your best. While you might not be as smart as Cady or as strong as Mac, you're also smarter than Mac and stronger than Cady. You'll have more option on how to progress."

"Right! I understand."

I smile.

"Good. Are we ready yet?"

The maid give me a grin.

"Not even close, Prince."

Damnit.

"Master?"

"Mac? I was just asking the others about their day. Did Iron Rod give you any trouble?"

"Surprisingly, no."

"No?"

"He was harsh, but he clearly wants me to get better without breaking me."

"Perfect! So everything is going swimmingly! After the week we had, it's about time!"

They all nod at this. Somehow, I'm sure it can get worse, but at least I'm not alone anymore.

"Where do I sit?", Shiny asks.

"Good question. Let's ask my mother."

We proceed to the head table. Fortunately we were amongst the first to arrive, so Shiny won't be embarrassed.

"Greetings, Mother."

"Solus. Is there a problem?"

"Well, just a question."

"Ask and I'll be happy to answer."

"Where do Shining sit?"

"By your side. He might not be your sworn sword yet, but he's still a member of your household."

"Uh. Thank you, Mother."

Well, at least Shiny looks happy. We proceed to our seat and engage in small talk, nothing important. We're both anxious about his induction as a member of my household, which is going to be announce in a few moments.

While we wait, the guests trickle in. A dozen minutes later and everypony is present. Celestia stands up, moving at the front of the table.

"Our dear subjects, We are happy to announce that Our son, Prince Solus, has found a willing soul to serve as his sworn sword!"

That announcement sends the assembly in a quiet frenzy, whispering and gasping in surprise.

"Prince Solus, Lord Shining Armour, come forward."

We glance at each other before doing as she said.

"Lord Armour, in the presence of this exalted assembly and under the watchful gaze of the Gods, do you renounce all land and title, dedicating yourself, body and soul, to your expectant liege."

"I do."

"Do you swear to uphold his decree, protect his person and safeguard his honour?"

"I do."

"Do you accept to place this oath under the suzerainty of the Heavens?"

"I do."

"Then bow to your liege, and cross you horn with his."

He does so, his eyes looking up at me.

"Repeat after me: I, Shining Armour, son of Twilight Velvet and Nightlight, willing and sound of body and mind, swear upon the Stars and Sun..."

"I, Shining Armour, son of Twilight Velvet and Nightlight, willing and sound of body and mind, swear upon the Stars and Sun."

Oooh, I'm feeling something. It's like when I swore to Harmony, except...

"...Upon Heaven and Earth..."

"Upon Heaven and Earth."

...It's not coming from me...

"...And upon Order that I will serve with Loyalty and dedication, that the will of my liege will be my will, his cause, mine, his future, mine."

"And upon Order that I will serve with Loyalty and dedication, that the will of my liege will be my will, his cause, mine, his future, mine."

...It's coming from him?

"Rise, Sir Armour. May you serve Our son most dutifully. We shall honour your oath this night! A toast! For Sir Armour, for his Devotion to our Prince!"

The nobles lift their cups and let out cheers and congratulations. Shiny seems completely out of his depth, being the centre of attention. I decide to spare him any further anguish by subtly guiding him back to his chair.

"You did good, Shiny", I whisper to him once we are seated.

He give me a timid smile. I think that's all I'm going to get out of him for now. I turn to Celestia.

"Mother?"

"Yes, son?"

"Was the oath supposed to be magical?"

"Magical? No, why?"

"I felt something, coming from Shining, when he took his oath."

"Really? Well, if he took it seriously enough, then maybe..."

"Yes?"

"He might have invoked the Virtue of Devotion, but that would mean his loyalty is undying, or close enough that it doesn't matter. You chose wisely, Solus. He clearly has potential."

That he does! He invoked Loyalty! I knew it! He is a knight in shining armour, after all! Though...

"What does it mean?"

"Hmm?"

"The oath. Since he invoked the Virtue, I mean."

"He will be unable to break it, or certain doom will follow if he does."

Oh. Shit.

In other words, I've just got myself another slave. Callise.

I look at Shiny. He seems...happy. I just have to make sure his loyalty isn't misplaced.

He notices me staring at him.

"Solus, is there something wrong?"

I give him a reassuring smile.

"No, nothing wrong. Shiny?"

"Y-yes?"

"You swore you'd be loyal, right?"

"Yes! And I will!"

"Then I swear I'll be worthy of your service, my knight."

He looks surprised. I just smile and pat him on the shoulder.

"Eat. This night is for you. You did real good Shiny, don't let anyone tell you otherwise."

He blushes.

"Okay! Thank you!"

"Thanks? Why?"

"For believing in me."

"There's no need to thank me. I'll always believe in you, Shiny. That's what friends do."

He smiles and dig in, probably to hide another blush. He's so adorable.

Family

Finally! Just one more night and this horrible, no good, very bad week is going to be over!

"Somepony is looking happy", Cadance says.

"I am! Shiny just became my knight, nothing bad happened today and tomorrow will be the last day of this blasted celebration!"

"Eh, fair enough."

"Now, let's all go to sleep. You all have lessons tomorrow."

"But I'm not tired!", Shiny whines.

"That's the sugar speaking. You shouldn't have eaten all those sweets."

"You said I could eat whatever I wanted!"

"Shiny, there is such a thing as moderation. You should try it", I say with a smile.

He pouts and cross his forelegs.

"Why? My mom isn't here to tell me what to do! I can do whatever I want!"

I blink and stare at him. Shit. Have I just been promoted to parent?

"Shining, that's not how it works."

"Why not? Who's going to stop me?"

And I lost control of this conversation in ten seconds flat.

"I am."

"What? Why?"

"Your mother not being here is not a reason to forego discipline."

"Discipline? I thought you'd make it stop!"

"Discipline is necessary, for children and adult. I can't just let you eat yourself in a hyperglycemic fit every day."

"Who are you to tell me that? I'm free! I don't have to listen to anyone orders anymore!"

Well, someone was craving even the littlest bit of independence, and I lead him to believe he'd drown in it.

"Shining Armour! Being away from your family does not mean you get to party all day, everyday! You still have to follow rules and convention, like everypony else!"

And now he's giving me a kicked puppy look.

"W-why? Why do I have to?"

"I'm not doing this to hurt you, Shining. Any children needs discipline to grow up to be an healthy, well adjusted adult. Think of me as an older brother who's responsible for your well-being."

"I'm older than you! You're not my mom, or dad! You can't tell me what to do!"

"That's enough!", I say firmly, just shy of shouting.

Shiny wince and take a step back, his eyes having a wild look to them.

"Shiny, I want to help you, you know that, right?"

He keeps silent, looking on the verge of crying.

"Right?"

"...Y-yeah."

"I'm doing this to help you. What do you think would happen if I let you indulge your every whims?"

"I'd b-be happy?

"Shiny."

"I...I don't know! Why not?!"

"Have you ever met a noble who acted like he owned the world, taking but never giving?"

"Y-yeah?"

"How do you think he was raised to become like that?"

"He...he was born like that?"

"Some are, but most became this way because they were told since their birth that they could have whatever they wanted, whenever it pleased them. If I let you loose without any guidance or discipline, how do you think you'll turn out?"

"I'd never become like them!"

"You can't know that. Did you know Celestia used to hate slavery?"

"W-what?!"

"Yeah, and she also held Harmony as the supreme ideal to follow. And she changed. The earth ponies remember. They remember a benevolent ruler who assured peace and equality between the Pony Tribes."

"That's true, my Ma did tell me that", Mac says.

"But...what changed?"

"I don't know. But I do know that no one was there to stop her when she began to change. If I let you do whatever you want, who's going to tell you if you begin to change for the worse?"

"I...you?"

"I thought you said I couldn't tell you what to do?"

"But...I...I understand. Sorry for -sob- being a b-brat. Please d-don't hate me..."

I hug him, patting his head.

"Of course not. I understand why you'd want to be rid of any and all supervision."

I pull back, placing my forehooves on his shoulders.

"Will you let me give you the supervision you need to become the best pony you can be?"

"Y-yeah."

"Good", I say with a smile. "Now, let's all go to bed, okay?"

"Okay."

We stand up. I motion for Mac and Cady to go on ahead and I follow Shiny to his room.

"Solus? What are you doing?"

"Get in your bed", I say, smiling.

He does so, looking at me uncertainly. When he's finished, I use magic to lift his covers, tucking him in.

"Want me to read you a bed-time story?"

His eyes grows wide.

"Y-you don't have to do that!"

"I don't have to, but I want to."

"O-okay", he squeaked.

I look around his room, searching...

Hmm, ah! Bookshelf! Seems they brought his books here. I go to the shelf and peruse it's selection.

There! 'The Ugly Duckling'! Perfect! Strange, that it's in Equestria, but still, good!

I hop back on the bed and light a candle. The light of my magic might be enough, but it is exhausting in the long run, especially for a foal.

"Whoa! You can already cast a fire spell?"

"My mother is very insistent on me being trained as much as I can."

Is she ever.

"Anyway, let me read you the story of the Ugly Duckling: It was lovely summer weather in the country, and the golden corn, the green oats, and the haystacks piled up in the meadows looked beautiful. The stork walking about on his long red legs..."

"... Poor thing! he had no thoughts of marriage; all he wanted was permission to lie among the rushes, and drink some of the water-"

*snore*

Wha-Oh. He's asleep.

Eh, so cute. I lean over and kiss his forehead.

"Goodnight, Shiny", I whisper.

I get off the bed as quietly as I can and exit his room.

I close the door behind me and turn around-Ah!

"Solus?", Cady asks.

"You nearly gave me an heart attack! What are you two doing out of bed?"

"Well..."

She rubs her foreleg, looking away, much like Mac is doing.

"Do you want me to tuck you in too?", I say with a smile.

"...If you would, please."

"Of course!"

It's so easy to forget they're children with how serious they are all the time. I might not have wanted to adopt them, but they are my kids now, and I'll be damned if I let them down!

Plus, they're so adorable!

Author's Note

I have no idea if 'hyperglycemic' is a word, but when I wrote this I was thinking of this.

Dawn of the Final Day

So, let's make a mental list:

-Breakfast, done

-Bath, done

-Goodbye, done

-On their way to their lessons, done.

I really am their parent, aren't I?

I chuckle at that.

I always wanted a family of my own, though I did not expect to get it like that. But still, they are my family, and I will take care of them. Especially Mac, if I can't save his family.

Knock-knock

"Prince Solus?", a muffled voice asks.

"Enter!"

The door open and a guard step in.

"Sire, your mother would like to see you."

Really? Why? Maybe...

There's only one way to know.

"Lead the way."

"Ah, Solus, good morning!"

"Good morning to you too, Mother. Why did you want to see me?"

"Straight to the point, hmm? Good. I have enough veiled words with the nobles. Anyway, I asked you here because I have found a suitable candidate to become your majordomo."

"Really? So soon?"

"Your birthday offered the perfect opportunity to select one, since all the nobles are gathered here."

Fair enough.

"Who is it?"

She smiles, turning to the guards.

"Let him in."

They open the door and in step a sharply dressed stallion, white with a blue mane. He seems familiar...

"Solus, meet Count Fancy Pants of Suedia."

He bows, placing a hoof on his chest.

"An honour to meet you, Your Serene Highness."

"Lord Fancy is known far and wide for his impeccable taste and manners. He'll make a perfect majordomo."

Hmm, canon!Fancy Pants was at the top of the Canterlot elite while being completely different from typical aristocrats like...uh...those two arses who insulted Rarity. I guess I can't really expect to remember that kind of detail after so long. At any rate, if this Fancy is anything like in the show...

"If you are recommended by my mother, I will be glad to have you, Lord Fancy!"

He bows his head.

"Many thanks, Your Highness."

"Perfect!", Celestia says. "Well then, why do you not go ahead, Lord Fancy? I would like to talk a little longer with my son."

"Of course. With your leave."

He bows again and leaves.

"I am sure you will appreciate him. He is a bit of pariah due to his positions."

"Positions?"

"Yes. He seeks to improve the lot of the lower classes and generally make the law fairer."

Really? And you chose him? Why...

"Why choose him then?"

"Because I support his ambitions."

What.

"You do?"

"Is it so surprising? I want the best for all my subjects."

Why slavery then? Maybe a milder question...

"Why not just change it yourself?"

"Because I cannot acknowledge the fact that I let it come to this in the first place."

Ah. All-knowing goddess can't make mistakes.

I repress the desire to facehoof.

"Mother, I'd like to ask a more...sensitive...question."

She raise an immaculate eyebrow.

"Go ahead."

"Why slavery?"

"Why? Because it is what is right. This is necessary for the Imperial Order to function."

"Would freeponies not be more productive?"

"Mayhaps, but then they would get dangerous ideas and desire, the ambition to elevate themselves beyond their station. The earth ponies work, the pegasi protect and the unicorns think. This is how it is."

Did she just pull a 'Brave New World'? Alpha, Gamma and Epsilon. The pegasi and unicorns won't rebel because they are glad not to be the earth ponies.

I'd point out that two of the Founders were earth ponies, but considering that I only know that because of the show, I doubt it will be well received.

"Does it have to be that way?"

She smiles sadly, looking at me like I'm a foal. Well, I am, but I mean, the condescending kind of look.

"Yes, it does. I tried a fairer way, and it only led to Chaos and betrayal. The Imperial Order might be harsh, but it is for the Greater Good."

Luna. She's talking about Luna. What else could she be talking about? I think I just found the point of divergence for this timeline.

"The Imperial Order is for all Equestrians, not just the earth ponies. While they have to work, it does not mean the others can abuse of their servitude."

Fuck you. I know for a fact that concubinage is a thing. If sexual exploitation is a-okay, what else is?

"For a thousand years the Empire has grown and prospered, proof that the Order is working as intended."

So did the fucking Roman Empire. I guarantee you a lot of people would have preferred if they didn't.

"I understand, Mother."

"Good. And who knows? Maybe you will be able to intervene where I cannot. After all, I cannot be everywhere at once."

"If you say so, Mother."

"Is there anything else you would like to talk about?"

"N-no."

"Then you should go join Lord Fancy. It would not do for you to have a frosty relationship with your majordomo."

Oh, really? I wouldn't have guessed.

"...get along splendidly!", Fancy says.

Seems he's introducing himself to my household.

"Now, go do your duties and when you have the time, compile a list of whom do what so I can orchestrate this whole thing! Have a good day and do your best!"

He's way more cheerful than Proper, at least.

"Ah, Prince Solus! I was just taking stock of the situation. Is there anything you need?"

Hmm...

"Lord Fancy, do you know what happened to my last majordomo?"

His smile fades somewhat. I wonder why.

"Ahh, yes, yes I do, Your Highness."

"Then you will understand if I desire to get to know you better?"

"Oh! Of course, Prince!"

"Good, then let's go to my room."

He seems rather dumbfounded by my actions. Meh, whatever. I'm hardly finished. We proceed to my room and I cast a privacy spell.

"Is that really necessary, Prince?"

"Rather, yes. My mother tells me you are sympathetic to the plight of lower born ponies?"

"Ah, well, yes, I am, Prince."

"Would you agree that trust between us is very important?"

"I...I would, Your Highness."

"Then, will you let me cast Heart Lock's Memory Modifying Spell?"

"Wha-what!? That's-"

"Do you really think an alicorn would betray your trust?"

"Well-"

"Also, I will let you cast it on me."

He looks completely flabbergasted at that.

"Prince Solus?"

"You heard me. So, will you let me?"

"I...very well. Why, if I may ask?"

"So we can be honest with each other without fearing the consequences."

"Is that really necessary?"

"I would think so, considering I wish to abolish slavery."

He stares and blinks at me.

"Pardon?"

"I wish to abolish slavery."

"You do?"

"Indeed. Do you?"

"Ah, well..."

"Memory spell."

"I-I do, Prince."

Jackpot.

"Very well. Then to ensure you are saying the truth, I would like you to swear an oath."

"An oath? Well, in for a copper, in for a star. What is the oath?"

"One of loyalty to me and my cause. Would you prefer if I went first?"

"Go first? Ah, well, yes, it would ease my mind."

"On the Earth, Moon, Sun and Firmament, on Harmony and Friendship, I, Solus of Equestria, solemnly pledge to fight on behalf of the slaves and others that are oppressed."

Oooh, there's the weird feeling again. He seems surprised, maybe by my choice of words?

"D-did you feel that?", he asks.

"You felt that? Uh. That's convenient. That way I'll know if your oath is sincere. Your turn."

"Ah, um, very well. On the Earth, Moon, Sun and Firmament, on Harmony and Friendship, I, Fancy Pants of Suedia, solemnly pledge exclusive loyalty to Solus of Equestria, to support him and his cause."

Hmm, the feeling is the same from when Shiny pledged himself to me. Perfect! No Proper 2.0!

"Thank you, Fancy."

"The pleasure is mine, Prince. You really desire to bring an end to slavery?"

"I do."

"And where did you get that idea?"

Shit. What do I answer? Let's go for cheesy.

"I saw the suffering of the slaves, two of them are now my friends and companion. I simply want them to be free."

"Friends? An alicorn friend with slaves! Ah, if only the public knew! And what does your mother think of that?"

"She doesn't know."

"She does not? Are you doing this behind her back then?"

"Quite."

"And what will you do when she learns of it?"

"Hopefully I'll have the means to dispose of her then."

He looks horrified at that.

"Dis-dispose? You intend to kill your mother?"

"Not necessarily, if I can just banish or purify her."

"Purify?"

"She used to hold Harmony close to her heart, something obviously happened to her."

"Harmony? What's the difference with Order?"

He didn't know the difference? And the oath is still valid? That has got to be illegal...

"Harmony is...understanding, the will to understand and befriend others, to work with them for a better tomorrow. Order is oppressive, static. It's the opposite of Chaos, while Harmony is about Balance between all things, including Order and Chaos."

"Ah...quite the difference indeed. Why would she advocate Order then..."

That seemed to be aimed at himself. He did not seem ready to hear talk of high treason.

"I can free you of your oath if you want. You did not give your consent with all the necessary information."

"No...no, that won't be necessary. I stand by you, Prince Solus. Your ambition might go much further than I expected, but it is necessary to ensure a better future for Equestria."

I hope you are right to place your trust in me.

"Thank you. Now, I'd imagine you are well versed in the Game?"

"I am."

"Then I would have you teach me and one of my companion how to play it."

"One of your...ah! The one who I am supposed to train, yes?"

"The very same. She is called Cadance."

"Cadance...to train a slave to play the Game, how delightfully scandalous!"

"Now, is there anything else we need to keep private?"

"I do not think so, my Prince."

"Perfect! Then I shall leave you to organize the household. I have somepony to meet."

"And who would that be?"

"Sunset Shimmer."

And his face scrunch up. What's wrong with her?

"Sunset Shimmer? Do be most careful with her. Even at her tender age she is quite the player, and a rather ruthless one at that."

Ain't that reassuring.

"I will be. I think I can get her on our side."

He looks doubtful.

"If you say so, my Prince."

"I'll be back soon. See you later, Fancy."

"Be safe, my liege."

I leave at a quick pace. I'm rather nervous now. But she's just a kid. A kid who manage to rule her school even with the human counterparts of Celestia and Luna watching.

I'm screwed.

Sunshine, Sunburn

I'm currently in front of a manor in the Inner city, having already knocked on the door. Or rather, one of my guard did.

Rapid hoofsteps can be heard and the door swings open.

"Prince Solus! You made it!", Sunset says, beaming.

"Of course I did, Lady Shimmer, what do you take me for?" I say in my worst imitation of a noble.

*snort*

"Heh-eh, sorry, of course you, eh, wouldn't!"

I smile.

"On a more serious note, I'm glad to see you again, Sunset."

"Me too, Prince. Please come in!"

I follow her inside. The interior is exactly as what I expected: banners, tapestries, paintings, marble and gold. I wonder if the nobility would have a collective heart attack if I built something out of granite and silver? Hmm, something to consider for the future...

Anyway, let's set aside the inner monologue for now.

"So, what are we going to do?"

"Hmm, do you like chess?"

"I never really played, but I'd be willing to try."

Not exactly a lie, since I never played in this life. In my previous one, I never won at chess, I always got beaten because I had no idea what to do.

"Come on then! We have a set in the garden!"

She runs off and I hurry to follow her. We soon arrive outside, in a, well, a garden. Surprise, surprise.

Enough self-snark.

The garden is quite the sight, with exotic flowers and fountains. I'm pretty sure the exotic birds are enchanted to stay here, but it's still quite beautiful.

Sunset is already at a table which has a chess set deployed on top of it. I sit opposite her, and look over the pieces. Seems the pawns are earth ponies and the knights are pegasi. The king is a unicorn, rooks are towers, fools are also unicorns and...

The queen is an alicorn. Obviously.

"Prince?"

"Uh, oh! Sorry, I'm listening!"

She shakes her head, smiling.

"As I was saying, do you know how to play?"

"Superficially."

"Right. Well it's rather simple, see that piece there? It can..."

Thunk!

"You'll win one day, Prince."

"Right."

Considering I currently had my muzzle pressed against the table, It probably came out as 'vraith', or something like that.

Thunk!

"Oh, come on it wasn't that bad."

"I do not appreciate false compliments."

"It wasn't a compliment."

Thunk!

"You didn't lose that often."

"Sunset. 29 to 1. And I'm pretty sure you lost that one on purpose."

"What? Noooo..."

Doesn't that sound sincere.

"And it has just been an hour since we first began to play. Two minutes per match."

"Well...don't feel too bad? You're just six after all."

Oh, right. Wound my pride even further. It's not like I'm actually nearly three times your age.

"Not that I'm not having fun, but can we do something else?"

"Hmm, oh! We could go swim!"

"Swim? I didn't know you had a pond nearby."

If only because we are on a mountain.

"No, silly! We have pool! Come, on I'll show you!"

Pool? Did medieval societies have pools? Hmm...

Well, it's not like it requires any kind of special technology...

Meh, whatever.

I follow her out of the garden to another area, where there is a rather large pool. A huge pool. And I just thought about something.

"Uh, Sunset?"

"Yeah?"

"I...I don't know how to, uh, how to-"

"You don't know how to swim? That's not a problem, I'll teach you!"

"Really? Thank you!"

I glomp her, holding her neck.

"A-ah, It's, uh, nothing, Prince! Let's do it!"

I let go and follow her to the edge of the pool. She jumps in and begin swimming.

"See my legs? You simply paddle in rhythm. It's a lot like galloping, in fact!"

Is it really that simple?

"Come on! Jump in! I'll hold you with my magic!"

Oh, dear. Here we go!

"Cowabunga!"

I jump in. Eeep, it's cold! Paddle, paddle...I'm not doing it! I'm not doing it!

"Help!", I shriek.

"Hold on! I got you!"

As she says that, I feel myself being lifted up and I can finally stop flailing.

"There, it's okay. Why don't you try it again? Don't worry, I won't let go."

I do as she says, slowly. Move right foreleg, move left hindleg...

I "swim" for a few minutes before Sunset talks again.

"I'm going to let you go now, tell me when you're ready."

"What? I'm not ready! Not even close!"

"It's not that complicated, Solus. You're already doing it."

"...Fine, I'm ready."

The support slowly fades away and I struggle to continue without it.

"Relax. If you keep your legs that stiff, you won't be able to do it."

Relax, Relax...

Hey! I'm doing it!

"I'm doing it! Sunset, I'm doing it!"

She laughs.

"That you are! Told you you could do it!"

I swim in circle around her, smiling like Pinkie Pie. And then I have a sudden impulse coming from my childish brain.

"Oy, Sunset!"

"Hmm?"

"Take this!"

I proceed to splash her. Now her mane is down in her face and she's spitting out water. She also has a murderous look in her eyes.

"Wait until I get you, twerp!"

Curse you, child's brain!

"Huff-hurph, you...you didn't need to -hurf- nearly drown me."

"You started it!"

"I just wanted to have fun!"

"Well...I didn't know that!"

What else could I have meant?

"So? Did you really think I was attacking you? After everything you've done?"

"N-no...ugh! Fine! I'm sorry! There! Happy?"

Didn't that seem honest.

"I'll take it."

"Whatever."

A bell rings out.

"What's that?"

"It means dinner is served. Come on!"

She starts to walk away.

"Right, right I'm following you."

"Also, I have my lessons to attend this afternoon, so dinner is all the time we have left."

"Lessons? I thought this day was a free day?"

"Only losers and underachievers take breaks like that."

"If you say so."

"That's what my mother says and considering she's one of the top nobles, I'll believe her."

I think I'll shut up now. She's clearly disinclined to discuss this. Wait...

Mmm, sweet, sweet food...how you smell divinely tasty...

"I was glad to spend the morning with you, Sunset."

"Likewise, Prince."

"See you later, and good luck with your lessons!"

She grins.

"I don't need luck. See you tonight."

"'Kay! Bye!"

She waves as I enter the carriage. I don't think I ever felt this happy in this life. Just...playing and fooling around. Getting to act like a child. I wonder if I could get away with acting like that with Shiny, Mac and Cady...

Probably not, but I'll make sure the next generation can. And maybe Sunset will help me do that.

Cessation of a Cruel and Condemnable Circus for a Chagrined Child

"Ah! Master Solus, how was your visit to Lady Shimmer?"

"Good. Everything is going well on your end, I hope?"

"Quite! Proper Worth might have been a ruffian, but his staff his irreproachable. I am quite satisfied with keeping things as they are."

I smile.

"Perfect. I had quite enough changes this week."

"An understatement, if I ever heard one. But I will make sure that at least some of it will be good."

"I expect nothing less from you, Count Fancy Pants. However, I would like to go see if Mac's training is proceeding as I wished. Do you know where he is, exactly?"

He puts a hoof to his chin.

"Hmm, a guard would know. Let me send for one that will escort you there."

"Thank you, Fancy."

"Faster, maggot!"

I see Mac running laps, with Iron Rod shouting at him. While I don't like it very much, soldiers back home didn't have the luxury of having their ears spared from such volume. I stay back, out of view, so I can see if he's doing what I asked.

"Annnd...done! Good job, Red."

"Th-thank you, sir!", Mac says, panting.

"Take a break and drink some water. Slowly. We'll resume training in five minutes."

Breaks and good advice? I wonder if it physically hurts him to do so. Anyway. I step out of the shadow and go to Mac.

"Hey Mac!", I say with a smile.

He looks up, startled.

"Master Solus!"

He tries standing up, but I stop him.

"It's fine, Mac. Take it easy."

"O-okay. What are you doing here?"

"I came to see if the Major is doing is job properly", I say with a pointed look to said pegasus.

"He is, don't worry."

"It's my job to worry about your well-being."

A gruff voice cuts in.

"Well, you don't have anything to worry about here, Sire. I told you I'd make him in the greatest warrior the Empire has ever seen and I don't make empty promises!" He says, stomping his hoof.

"I expect nothing less from the stallion the Empress chose to train her son."

He looks a bit surprised at that.

"Ah, of course, she chose me for a reason, after all!"

"Major, do you think I hate you?"

Now he looks positively flabbergasted.

"What? Um, well-"

"I don't."

"You don't?"

"No. I should have been clearer and more assertive. My conduct was most unbecoming of an alicorn, let alone a Prince of Equestria. You always were fair. Harsh, but fair nonetheless. I cannot hate you for obeying my orders, that would idiotic."

"I, um, I'm glad to hear it, Sire!"

"Further, when my training resume, after the Celebration, I don't expect you to go easy on me. You will not have to worry about me pulling ranks or some nonsense like that. I want to be trained properly, not coddled into laziness and weakness."

He grins.

"Of course I won't, Sire! I'll make you in a war machine, worthy of being called an Emperor of Equestria!"

"I'm sure you will, as I am sure I will regret my words tomorrow."

He laughs, mussing up my mane.

"That you will, squirt!"

*sigh*

"Anyway, do your best, Macintosh! I know you can do it."

Mac looks at me with a determination shining in his eyes.

"I won't let you down!"

"No you won't", Iron Rod interjects. " But you will if you don't move you flank! It's been way more than five minutes! Come on worm, get moving!"

Mac stand up and salute.

"Sir, yes sir!"

He then goes back to running laps, like he's not even tired.

"You chose well, Sire. It's just a pity he's not a pegasus."

"Hmm."

More like it's a pity earth ponies can't be real soldiers.

"Major?"

"Yes, Sire?"

"Since I've got nothing better to do, I'd like to join Mac in his training."

"Ooh, with pleasure, Sire!", he says with a predatory smile.

*gulp*

I'm going to regret this, aren't I?

"Urgh...why did I stop training? It hurts, so, so much."

"Shu...shut up! How do you think I feel?", Mac snaps back.

"Sorry. At least we're here."

That we were, which meant we could finally take a bath! I open the door with magic and step inside.

"Solus! You're back!", Shiny shouts.

"Hi Shiny. Where's Cadance?"

"Oh! The new guy, Fancy Pants?", he pauses, waiting for confirmation.

I nod.

"So, yeah Fancy, he took her away for...training?"

"Good. You don't have to worry, I made him swear on Harmony that he'd be loyal."

"You did?" Mac and Shiny ask at same time.

"I did. He shares my goals, so you don't have to worry about him."

Mac doesn't look convinced, not that I can blame him for that.

"Mac, not all noble are irredeemably evil."

"Yeah, right..."

"What about Shiny? And Me?"

"That...fine. I'll give him a chance."

"Don't worry Mac, I won't let you down again. At any rate, bath time!"

"Bath time?", Shiny asks, before smelling in our direction. "Ew, bath time."

Shiny and I arrive at the Ballroom, decked out in our best outfits and ready to face the nobles, one last time. This week.

I hate my life. Anyway.

I sweep the room, looking for Sunset...

Ah, there! With her Mother. Wonder if she's as bad as Velvet...

We go to her, though Shiny seems hesitant.

"What's wrong, Shiny?", I whisper.

"That's Sunset Shimmer!", he whispers back.

"So?"

"So? Our families hate each other! She hates me!"

Oh. Crapbasket.

"Don't worry, you're my knight now."

"She's mean! And a liar! She blamed me for something she did and she always picks on me!"

She did? Fuck damn it.

"I...don't worry Shiny, she won't hurt you. I won't let her."

He looks uncertain but he eventually nods. Not a moment too soon either, considering we arrived to where the Sunsets are seated.

"Prince Solus! To what do we owe the honour?", Sunset Satin asks in a sweet tone.

"I am simply here to greet your daughter, my friend."

"Oh, but of course! I am so glad my little Sunset became your friend! She always was such a sweet and talented child!"

"Mother, stop embarrassing me!", Sunset says, blushing.

"Now, now, dear, I am only stating a fact!"

"Mooom!"

Satin titters and look back at us.

"Still, I am happy you consider her worthy of being in your presence, Your Highness."

"The pleasure is mine. Sunset is smart and mature as well as being fun to be around, what is there not to like?"

Sunset becomes even redder and ducks her head.

"Oh-ho, is she now? Well, I will make sure to give her time to spend with you, Your Highness."

I incline my head.

"Much appreciated, Duchess."

Gong!!

"Ah! The feast is starting! You should go, Prince."

"I shall see you later then, Duchess Satin, Lady Shimmer."

We proceed to the head table, and lean toward Shiny.

"See? Not that bad!"

"Pfft, you haven't seen the real her yet."

Hmm, that could be a problem, if Sunset turns out to be an Element. It's unlikely, but still. The only Elements she would fit would be Magic or Kindness, considering Word of God said her Element was Empathy, which is closely related to Kindness. Since I already have Cady...

Consideration for another time.

Celestia rises up and the assembly falls quiet.

"Dearest subjects, We are happy to have you here to celebrate the final day of the Realization of Contentment of Our son and heir, Crown Prince Solus. We celebrate his sixth year of life as well as his first step to becoming an upstanding member of society."

She raises her goblet.

"A toast for our Prince, who just stepped onto the road to adulthood! For the Prince! Long may he lives!"

"Long may he lives!", the nobles exclaim in unison.

Long may I live! That's a sentiment I can get behind!

Ah, bed, oh sweet bed, take me away to the Land of Dreams 'till tomorrow!

"I still don't trust her.", Shiny says, pouting.

Though I'll have to take care of that first.

"Come on, Shiny, just give her a chance. She probably just acted that way because of your mom and her rivalry with her mom."

"So? I was never mean to her because of that! And it doesn't make it right!"

"Nooo, it doesn't...I...look, just entertain me, okay?"

"Fine, but when she let's you down I will say 'I told you so'."

"That's your right, though it will hopefully won't come to that."

"Hmph!"

"Stop pouting and get in bed, you silly pony!"

"Okay, okay."

He climbs up in bed and I use magic to place a chair by his bedside. I climb on the chair and tuck Shiny in.

"Y-you really don't have to do that..."

"Does it make you happy when I do it?"

"...Yes."

"Then that's enough reasons to do it."

"But-", he starts, but is cut off by a yawn.

"I don't think you'll a bedtime story tonight", I say with a smile.

I lean over and kiss his forehead, which causes him to blush and squeak.

So adorable.

"Goodnight, Shiny. Have sweet dreams."

"Goo-goodnight, Solus!", he replies, clearly flustered.

I jump down and leave his room, heading for my own. I enter and see Cady and Mac in bed, staring at me.

"Did you stay up for me?"

They look at each other, Cady biting he lips before she answers.

"Y-yeah."

I let out a small laugh and step beside their bed.

"You shouldn't have, but still, how did your day go, Cady?"

"It went well! Fancy is real nice!"

I use my magic to place the covers over them before replying.

"Is he now? Does that mean training went well?"

"It did! I learned so much from him! It's like he doesn't even notices I'm a pegasus!"

"Oh, he does notices, but he doesn't care. That's why he has my trust."

"Does he really?", Mac asks.

Hmm, he really doesn't like unicorns...I'll have to change that. Being a victim of racism is no excuse to be racist.

"Yes he does. He swore an oath on Harmony."

"...Fine, but I'll buck him if he tries anything."

I roll my eyes.

"Be my guest, but it won't happen."

I lean down and kiss the both of them on the forehead.

Mac don't seem to appreciate much.

"I thought you said you didn't want to kiss me?"

"Shut up and take my show of fraternal affection, Mac."

He grumbles something under his breath, but I still see a smile tugging as his lips.

"Goodnight, you too. Sweet dreams."

"Goodnight, Solus.", Mac says, still not looking at me in the eyes.

I wait for Cadance to say goodnight before I look over Mac to see that she's already asleep, with a soft smile on her face.

Mac soon lay down his head next to hers and follow her to the Dreamworld. I go to my own bed and lay down.

That was one fucked up week, but at least I've got them, now. I've got a family, people I want to protect.

Tomorrow awaits, with promises of good and bad things, but for now, I'm happy, truly happy, for the first time in long, long while.

Revision

It has been a few weeks since my birthday and they have been relatively calm. Relatively, as in, taking care of three six-year-old is a pain in the flank. Don't misunderstand me, I love them with all my heart, but children are children, whether human or equine. You have to make sure they take their bath, while they fuss about, saying they don't need it (as it happens, Shiny is mostly the only to do that, the other two are rather more happy about it. I wonder why). There's also their bedtime, saying they are not tired, with Mac being an exception because of his training. And there's...ah...nighttime indiscretions.

To be honest, I expected Shiny to be the one to have that problem, however, it only happened once and from what I gathered from his embarrassed mumbles his mother made sure he stayed dry at night. No, the one with that problem would be Macintosh. From what he told me, he never bothered to not urinate during his sleep, and seemed rather confused by the whole idea until he realized that wet bed covers are rather uncomfortable. I imagine his parents never bothered to teach him, considering the fact he literally slept in dung and piss anyway.

As for interactions between the three of them, Mac and Shiny are the "love you, hate you" kind of brothers. One minute they're getting along just fine, playing or talking, and the next one they're at each other throats either because Shining made an insensitive comment about non-unicorns or because Macintosh made a rude comment about nobles. They, of course, both get an earful when it happens and I explain to them why they were wrong to say whatever they said. Fortunately, they seem to have understood what was the problem and are more willing to explain to the other what they did wrong instead of jumping to conclusions.

Unfortunately, as my schedule is even more tightly packed than their own, I'm not around them as much as I would like. While Fancy is a rather reasonable authority figure, Mac don't trust him much, and neither him or Shiny really as somepony who they can be open with. Fortunately, Cadance took that role upon herself, to be there to soothe their worries and to talk them down when they are clashing. I'm hardly surprised that canon!Cadance is such a beloved princess.

Talking of Cadance, she took to her new life like a fish to water. Fancy even said he had never met a filly more eager to learn, and good at it, than her. She's polite, level-headed and reasonable. I really lucked out by finding her. Trying to deal with the colts without her would have been an headache.

Though, on the subject of learning...

"Now, let's take it from the top. Who are the lowest ranked nobles in the Empire?"

"Um, the Barons?", Shiny says, waiting for confirmation.

We are currently in the lounge of my quarters, sitting on pillows. I'm helping Shiny and Cady to revise what they know of the Equestrian political structure.

"Hmm, technically incorrect. They are the lowest landed nobles. Cady?"

She looks up and scratches her chin, looking a little lost in her thoughts, before she looks back at me.

"The Knights?"

"Correct. Shiny, as a Knight yourself, describe their role and function."

"They are tasked with protecting their liege lord life, honour and holdings, even at the cost of their life", he replies with a stilted voice. He's probably repeating something that was said to him. "While they hold no lands themselves, they can serve as adjutant to their liege both in military and civilian matters. During wartime, they will either serve as officers or as elite soldiers."

"Very good, Shiny. Cady, same question, but with the Barons."

"Uhh, they serve as representative of their liege lord and rule over their castles and hamlets in their place, so that their overlord can organize their holdings as a whole instead of wasting time going from one castle to another all the time. Right?"

"You got the gist of it. The Barons also enforce the dictates of their overlord and they, during wartime, are the ones to assemble the levies before rallying their lord."

Cady nods her understanding and I turn to Shiny.

"Who are above the Barons, and what do they do?"

"The Counts. They are the direct ruler of the region assigned to them, a County, levy the taxes and oversee the building of infrastructure in their demesne. They'll usually serve as the lieutenants of their overlord during wartime. They have more autonomy than the Barons but they still have to obey the laws instated by their overlord as well as levy taxes to the exact percentage their liege tells them to."

"Correcto-mundo. Cady?"

"After that, it's the...the Dukes?"

"Indeed. Continue."

She looks much more confident after hearing my answer and she stands straighter.

"They serve as the representative of the Crown to the rest of the Lords and enforce the mandate set by the capital. During wartime, they serve as commander of the army their vassals assembled."

"Essentially. What is the difference between them and the Grand Dukes?"

"A Grand Duke is a Duke who has multiple Duchies as part of his demesne. While more prestigious than Dukes, they do the same things as them."

"Excellent! Shiny, care to tell me who is on top of that?"

"The Archdukes. They serve as nearly independent rulers of the Archduchy they are in charge of. In essence, they assume the role of the Empress in the territories far away from the Heartland and/or unstable."

"Correct. How many are there, and what is their names?"

"Four. Borealia, Monsoriens, Corignis and Transalbina."

Otherwise known as the Frozen North, Griffonstone, the Dragonlands and the Mysterious South. I'm sure the Griffons and the Dragons had plenty of fun when Equestria came for them...

"Right. What about the Lords on the border, Cady?"

"They, uh, are the Marquis. They are the equivalent of the Dukes, but they are given much more leeway so they can defend their demesne effectively without having to wait for their overlord to come take command and bring an army with them. Just as a Lord with multiple Duchies is called a Grand Duke, a Lord with multiple Marches is called a Grand Marquis."

"Perfect! That's all of them! Now, what else it there?"

"The Senate?", Shiny says.

"Indeed! Mind explaining what it is?"

"Um, it's where the leading nobles of the Empire assemble to discuss about matters concerning it as well as proposing laws to the Empress."

Essentially like the Roman Senate, since it didn't technically have the power to make laws, they only served as a consultative body for the Consuls and Tribunes.

"Solus, can I ask a question?", Cady says, looking sheepish.

"Go ahead."

"Why does Celestia allow the Senate to exist?"

"Hmm, very good question, Cady. Celestia can't rule everything herself, hence the nobles. However, while they worship her, even that wouldn't stop some of them to try and gain more power. Thus, she created the Senate, where the nobles can squabble for power all they want without threatening the Empress authority. Or at least that's my best theory, which Fancy told me was the most likely option."

"Oh, okay, that makes sense.", she says, nodding.

"Now, do either of you know about the burghers?"

They both look at me.

"Er, no", Shiny says.

"That's alright. The burghers are the rich merchants, landowner and guild masters who have considerable influence even though they are not a part of the nobility. As such, cities are able to elect a Lord Mayor whose status is roughly equivalent to a Baron. On top of that, cities, either ruled over by a municipal council or by the Mayor alone, can create a municipal charter through which the city is able to administer its own affairs without interference from the Counts and Dukes. They still have to follow the Celestial Code of Law, however."

"Do they have to be unicorns?", Cady asks.

"Strictly speaking, no. Unicorn commoners and pegasi are legally equal in status even if their position in society is regulated by said laws. In practice, pegasi burghers are virtually non-existent."

"Why?"

"Because the most influential burghers associate themselves with the Lords, which a pegasus would have a hard time trying to do the same."

She looks down, rubbing her foreleg.

"Oh, that's..."

"Unfair?"

"Yeah..."

I smile sadly.

"I wouldn't be conspiring against my own mother if things were fair."

I shake my head.

"Anyway, the burghers were granted the right of assembly by the Empress four and a half hundred years ago. Each chartered municipalities can elect one or more representatives, called Tribunes, to represent the 'common' pony interests in the Parliament. Much like the Senate, they don't technically have the right to legislate, but they were given the right to serve as judge when a noble is put on trial, in the interest of fairness."

"Really? And they accepted that?"

"Well, I say 'fair', but what I really mean is lucrative, since the burghers presiding those cases are usually bought off."

Cadance rolls her eyes.

"What else did I expect?"

Shiny interjects, looking decidedly upset.

"But it's not all bad, right?"

Well, he is a noble. I suppose he'd rather that is whole life not be a sham.

"Not all bad, no, but mostly bad. That's why there are Lords like Fancy who want to change things. They usually aren't as revolutionary as me, but they still exist."

He gazes at me, his eyes full of sadness.

"So we really are parasites?"

Damn it, Mac!

"Most are, but you definitely aren't, Shining. You'll only be when you stop caring about your fellow ponies, no matter their tribe."

"Okay..."

Cady places a wing on his back.

"Don't worry Shiny! Would I be your friend if you were bad?"

Shiny gawk at her, teary-eyed.

"N-no?"

She smiles.

"No, I wouldn't be. You're a good pony, Shining Armour. and don't you forget it."

He rubs his eyes.

"Okay!", he says much more convincingly.

Adorable, both of them. At any rate.

"Now, is there anything else about the politics of the Realm?"

Cady ponders about it a moment, before answering.

"I don't think so. Thanks for helping us, Solus! We know you're busy, so we really appreciate you taking the time to help us, don't we, Shiny?"

Shining brighten up immediately, smiling broadly.

"Yeah! Thanks, Solus! It means so much for us!"

"It's nothing. Everypony should be able to have access to education and it's my pleasure to help my family."

They both look abashed at this. They know I consider them family, but they're still getting used to it.

"Anyway, I think it's about time for supper. Let's go rescue Mac from Iron Rod and let's head to the dinning room."

They both stand up, smiling.

"Yeah, let's go!", Shiny shouts, running after me.

Cadance just giggles at Shiny's exuberance and follow after us.

Budding Talent

Oh gosh, I'm so anxious. I sent Cadance away on a mission to help ponies resolve their relationship problems, like I said I would. She went to do it this morning and hasn't come back yet, though I did give her the entire day off...

Still, I'm just wondering if she'll get her cutie mark by doing this. If she does...

Let's not get ahead of ourselves. I asked Fancy to get coat dye so if she gets her canon cutie mark, we'll be able to hide it. It wouldn't do for Celestia to know that the rightful ruler of the Crystal Empire is my slave. Fortunately, the dresses I gave her so she could blend in with the Castle's staff will also serve the additional purpose of hiding her cutie mark, should she get it in public.

I'm actually trying to have all three of my companions earn their cutie marks, but their acquisition is so fickle. The Cutie Mark Crusaders did have some talents, building, singing and dancing, but none of them got them their cutie marks. Who is to say Cady will get the same cutie mark? Shiny won't be too bad, considering his special talent has something to do with protection and considering he's my knight, he'll get plenty of opportunities to try his hoof at it. Mac, though, that's something else. His cutie mark most certainly had something to do with apple farming, but he won't be doing anything related to agriculture in this life. Will he get a different mark, or will he be mark-less until I get him to plow a field? I hope not. Considering that cutie marks seem to be an intrinsic part of ponykind, its absence might have negative consequence on Mac's magic, or even his psyche. If we consider how the Equal Ponies were affected...

I shake my head.

It doesn't matter right now, I have to focus on the present.

The door to my office (yes, my office. Though I mostly use it as place where I do my homework.) opens and Cadance walks in. Yes! I won't have to wait anymore!

I walk up to her and smile.

"So, Cadance, did you manage to help anypony?"

She beams, hopping on the spot.

"I did! And guess what?"

"No way! Did you...?", I say, filled with excitement.

"I got my emblem!", she shouts, much like the CMC did in the show. She's literally vibrating in place by now.

I hug her, lifting her up and standing on my hind legs, before I spin us around, eliciting pearls of laughter from Cadance.

"I knew you'd get it! Congratulation, Cady!"

I set her down, felling woozy. Note to self: doing this as a horse is a bad idea.

Cady smiles softly, much more calm, and nuzzle me.

"Thank you, Solus. I couldn't have done it without your support."

"It was nothing. It's your special talent, after all. Can I see it?", I ask.

"Oh! Sure! I'll just go undress myself, it won't take long!", she says, before hurrying out of the room.

Ah! She got it! That's perfect! At least I know I'm doing something right...

Oh, shut it, self-flagellating part of my brain!

It's too bad that Mac and Shiny aren't here. Maybe I should have given them the day off too. Hmm, probably not. I don't think I could have gotten away with doing that, but it's still unfortunate they are not here.

Cady comes back in, free of her clothes and...

"So? What do you think?", she asks with an excited voice,

I think I'd rather you did not shake your rump at me and also THAT'S THE MOTHERBUCKING CRYSTAL HEART! YES!

"It's...it's perfect. A heart pure as crystal. It's exactly you."

She blushes and smiles widely.

"Thanks! It means a lot, you saying that."

I smile back.

"Anytime, Cady. So, how did you get it?", I ask, curious.

"Oh! Well, it's quite the tale actually. See it all began when..."

(Cadance P.O.V)

Help ponies with their relationship, help ponies with their relationship...

Ugh, how do I do that? I can't just walk up to somepony and...

Slap!

"You dare!? I deigned accept your proposal! Without me, you'd be a nopony, a shadow in the Court! Stripped of your heritage! Is that how you repay me? How you repay my sacrifice and effort?", a mare screams angrily.

"N-no I-I-", a stallion stutters fearfully.

"Stop stuttering! What a wreck you are! What would you be without me? Go away! Only come back when you're really sorry!", the mare shrieks, slamming the door to her (their?) apartment.

The young stallion jumps back, startled by the closing door, before slumping against the wall opposite the door. He grabs his head as he begins sobbing.

"W-what am, sniff, am I going to do? She h-hates me, now...", he says softly.

He continues sobbing silently before he notices me.

"What do you want?", he hisses at me. "Come laugh at the poor fool?"

"What?", I reply, genuinely shocked. "Of course not! I'm just...sorry for you..."

"I don't need your pity!", He spats out.

"It's not pity, it's...empathy. No one should have to feel like this. Do you want to talk about it?", I ask, stepping closer, smiling reassuringly.

I'm not sure that's what Solus had in mind, but I can't just let that be, right?

"Talk? With you?", he asks, disbelief apparent on his face.

"Talking helps. I would know. I had plenty of ponies talk with me, including adults, and feel better afterwards."

"You? You're just a filly! What would you know about what I'm going through?"

"Nothing, but sometime a child's innocent point of view might give you a new perspective on your problems. It won't hurt to try, will it?", I say, placing a hoof on his wither.

He hangs his head.

"I...I guess not", he mumbles.

I sit beside him.

"So, who was that?", I begin.

"That was my fiancee, Upper Crust."

"Your fiancee?"

"Yes, my beloved fiancee", he says, his tone heavy with sarcasm, shaking his head. "See, I'm not a noble, I'm a burgher, son of an important merchant. My father told me I had to find a suitable bride if I wanted my inheritance, so I set forth to court a Lady, for who else would be more suitable?"

"That doesn't seem to be a good foundation for a relationship", I point out.

He snorts disdainfully.

"I guess not. But I still had to do this, so I searched for an impoverished noble family, and enter Upper Crust. Her father is a baron of a little castle which brings little revenue. So, to increase his wealth, he dabbled in investments by taking loans. As you'd imagine, investments are a risky venture, and sure enough, he lost it all when the caravan he had funded was ambushed. So when I came asking for his daughter's hoof, he jumped at the opportunity to have someone deal with his debts."

"Is that why she was so angry?"

"No, well, yes, indirectly. She's very reluctant about the whole thing, she thinks she's debasing herself by marrying a commoner. Thus, she makes sure to remind me that she's a noble and that's she's better than me at every opportunity she gets."

"Can't you find somepony else?"

He sighs.

"No, there is nopony else. The nobility is loathe to open its rank to the plebeian. I'm stuck with her."

"Did you try to talk with her about how you feel?"

"I did. That's why she gave me this", he says, pointing to his cheek.

I rub my chin, thinking hard. What could I do? Maybe...

"Maybe I could go talk to her?", I propose.

"What?", he says, boggling at what he heard. "Out of the question, you'll only make things worse!"

"Master Solus always says there's two sides to a conflict. I should at least try."

"'Master Solus'? You mean the Prince?", he asks.

"Uh-huh."

"You are a confidant of the Prince?", he says, his eyes wide with surprise.

"Yes", I say, nodding.

"Maybe she will listen to you...", he mumbles. "Fine, you can try it your way."

Yes! I knew that would work!

["Wait, wait, wait, wait...you used my name to get him to agree?"

"Yeah? What's the problem?"

"I...I'm sure there is one, just-"

"Shush, let me continue."]

I get up and go to the door, hesitating a bit before knocking. It doesn't take long before the door opens.

"Who are you? What do you want?", Upper Crust asks harshly.

"I am Cadance, a companion of His Serene Highness."

Her eyebrows crease.

"His...", she starts, before her eyebrows go in the opposite direction. "The Prince!? Is there something he wants from me?", she says frantically.

I wave my hoof.

"No, no! Don't worry, though I am here on a errand he assigned to me."

"An errand?"

"Yes! In order for me to become more skilled at interacting with the Court, he asked me to go around the Castle and help ponies with their relationship problems."

"Relationship problems? I don't-"

She stops short when she sees the stallion, who cringes before waving and smiling weakly.

"The only problem I have with him is the fact that does not appreciate my contribution to our relationship.", she says, turning her nose up.

"Does he really?"

"Of course!", she snaps.

"Did you ever talk to him about it?"

"Of course I did! I made it very clear what I expect from him!"

"Did you let him do the same?"

"Wha-obviously not!"

"Why not?"

"I'm already giving myself to him, isn't that enough?", she declares, glaring daggers at the stallion.

"And he's giving himself to you.", I reply.

"What is he giving, uh?", she spats out disdainfully.

What was the word Solus used...ah, yes! Don't snark, don't snark...

"His wealth, for one."

That make her stop and stare, before she turns to the stallion, murder written in her eyes.

"You told her!?", she shrieks.

"I-"

I step in between them.

"He did. So, let's recap, he needs you for his inheritance and you need him to expunge your father's debts, right?"

She grinds her teeth before answering.

"Yes", she grounds out.

"So, you are giving each other something of equal value, yes?"

She stays silent, her lips pursed.

"Yes?", I repeat more intently.

"Yes, we do", she lets out, her voice as cold as ice.

"So, by that logic, the only way for one side to add value to this arrangement his with their own self, correct?"

Her face lose of its hardness, replaced by confusion.

"I...suppose?", she says slowly.

"So, the only way for you to be better than him would be to make him happy, no?"

Now she looks positively lost.

"I...what? I...I...I imagine..."

"Can I ask you a question?"

She turns away and mumble something that sounds awfully like "it's not liked it stopped you before", before looking back at me.

"Ask away."

"I know you don't have your status in common, but did you ever try to find if you had something in common beside that?"

She scrapes the floor with her hoof, looking embarrassed.

"Well, not...exactly."

"Maybe you'd get along well with if you tried to understand him. Any relationship, romantic or nor, needs both side to understand each other. The better you understand, the better the relationship is."

"I...and who said that, uh? What would a filly would know about love?"

"The Prince said it, and he learned it from his mother."

["What?! No I didn't!"

"Shush, it's a white lie.]

"H-he did? Ah, well-"

I interrupt her.

"Also, before you try to do this just to please the Empress, wouldn't you rather do this for yourself? Wouldn't you rather have a friend for the rest of your life instead of an enemy?"

"I suppose I would...", she trails off, looking at her fiance from the corner of her eye. "Fine, I'll try to...understand him."

I smile.

"That's all anypony can ask of you." I turn to the stallion. "And you, are you willing to do the same thing?"

He looks up at his fiancee, before standing up and walking up to her.

"I am. Upper, I...you're, beautiful, smart and elegant", he says, before kneeling and taking her hoof and holding it tenderly. "You don't deserve the situation your father placed you in, but I'll try my best to make your life the best I can, I swear."

"Cruise...", She says, her eyes watering. "You really mean it? After everything I put you through?"

He smiles.

"Of course. Others might see a frigid mare, but I see a flower that only need a little care to bloom."

"Oh, Cruise!", she exclaim dramatically. "You are so kind and noble, how could I treat you so horribly?"

Cruise stands up, caressing her cheek with his hoof.

"You are forgiven, my love", he whispers tenderly.

"Cruise..."

She leans in slowly, and they kiss. Awww. They're so cute!

Uh, what's that light in the corner of-

Is my flank...shining?

"Oh dear! Did you...did you get your emblem? Thank to us?" Upper Crust asks.

"I-I think so! That's awesome!"

Cruise smiles.

"You deserve it, for helping us get closer to each other.", he says, nuzzling his fiancee.

"That you do", she concur, nuzzling back.

I've got my emblem!

"I've got to show this to Solus!" I exclaim, beginning to run toward the Royal Wing, before I stop myself and turn back. "Oh! I completely forgot to ask! What's your name?"

"My name is Lavish Cruise, of Genua, milady."

"Milady? I'm not-"

"You are as noble as one.", he says smiling, with Upper Crust nodding her approval.

"Th-thank you! I...I've got to go! I hope I see you again."

"So do we.", Upper says.

They wave at me as I run down the hall. Wait until I tell Solus!

"So, that's my story."

I smile.

"Exactly what I came to expect from my future assistant. Well done, Cady."

"Do you think I could see them again?", she asks, with hopeful eyes.

"I guess you could, but do be aware that they didn't know you are a slave."

Her smile dies a painful and abrupt death.

"Oh, right..."

I place my hoof over hers.

"But, you might be able to change their opinion."

She gives me a small smile.

"You...you think so?"

"Why not? You brought them together, so why not that?"

Her smiles grow and she nods.

"Yeah! I've got to try! Maybe they'll even help us!"

Well I sincerely doubt that will happen, but I suppose if we don't try we'll never know.

"Anyway, it's close to midday, I'm sure you're hungry, let's go get some grub!", I say as I walk to the door.

She giggles and follows behind me.

"Master Solus?"

"Fancy, why did you cast a privacy spell?"

"I found it. It will be delivered in a few days."

"Are you certain it's what I asked for?"

"Positive."

"Thank you, Fancy. I don't know what I would do without you."

He bows.

"It is my pleasure to serve, Master Solus. I shall take my leave now. I have to make Sir Armour takes his bath."

I giggle.

"Good luck with that."

He rolls his eyes and leaves.

I've got it! With it...

I can't wait to have the Exaggero Invida Amulet.

Amore è in Fiore (Cadance)

Cadance woke up, feeling happier than she had in a while. She had finally gotten her emblem! Still, it's not over, she still has to work hard if she wants to help Solus save Equestria from Celestia's tyranny.

And that begins by waking up Mac.

"Mac, wake up! It's morning!", she says melodiously.

Her friend fidget a bit, moaning something like 'not yet'.

"Come on Mac, I heard the cooks are making apple pancakes today!", she says, prodding him.

That get him to spring right up.

"Apples?", he asks, still half asleep.

Cady giggles. He's so predictable.

"Yes, yes, apples! Come on, we don't want to be late for breakfast!", she says, dragging him out of bed. She heads for the dressing room, so they can get ready to face the day without looking like they spent last night in a tornado. Especially for her, considering she had let her mane grow since she had been rescued by Solus.

They enter the dressing room moments later where they encounter their best friend, Solus.

"Good morning, Solus!", she declares cheerfully.

"Morning", Mac says, in his usual sedate tone.

Solus turns and smiles warmly.

"Good morning to you too! I hope you're hungry Mac, the cooks are making apple pancakes today!", he says with mirth, continuing to brush his coat with the help of his magic. Cady was extremely jealous of his telekinesis spell. If she had it, prepping herself each morning would be a breeze!

"Wait, Cady wasn't telling me a fib?", Mac says, with happiness radiating from his eyes. Cady thought she could even see a bit of drool at the corner of his mouth.

"What?", she says with an affected affronted tone. "You thought I'd lie to you? For shame, Mac, for shame."

Solus laugh as Mac scrapes the floor with his hoof and mumbles an apology. She places a wing on his back and nuzzle him.

"It's fine, I'm just messing with you!", she reassures him with a smile on her face.

Solus shakes his head at their antics before speaking up again.

"Come on you two", he says while gesturing for them to sit in front of the mirror, "we haven't got all day."

They do as he says and he begins brushing them. Cady was really jealous of that telekinesis spell. But well, a big brother that does it for you is just as good!

Big brother...

She smiles at the thought. He really is their big brother, isn't he?

"What are you smiling for now, Cady?", Solus asks her.

"I'm just glad to have you as our big brother, that's all."

The brushes stop moving. Cady can see the look of surprise on his face, thanks to the mirror.

"Well I-"

The door opens and she hears a cavalcade of hoofsteps before Solus gets assaulted by a giant pillow.

"So am I, Solus!", said 'pillow' declares joyfully.

"Good morning, Shiny", Solus says with a resigned smile. Shiny was a real cuddle bug, who would assault you with hugs as long as he felt comfortable around you. "What about you, Mac? Are you glad to have me as your 'brother'?"

"Eeyup. I'm glad to have all of you as my family", he says with a calm smile.

"Awww", Shiny and herself say at the same time.

Solus let out a soft laugh before resuming his task of brushing us.

"Shiny, sit down, I've got to prepare you too", he says to the colt still clinging to him.

"Okay!", Shiny replies happily, sitting down and smiling.

Cady really was happy. Just a few months ago she was a captive of these horrible ponies, and now...

Now she had a real family. Maybe not the most usual one, or even the most harmonious one, but it was still hers, and she wouldn't want anyone else.

Shiny and Cadance were in a salon, sitting and listening to Diurne Compendium, their history teacher, as he was pontificating on the historical period known as the New Dawn.

"...and so Her Divine Radiance established her rule over ponykind, creating the Imperial Order for her subject to live by. However, some were not happy with this change. Beasts coming from the all the dark corners of the world came and ravaged our lands to prevent us from seizing our manifest destiny of bringing peace and Order to Domus. Griffons, manticores, diamond dogs, dragons and others came bearing down, bringing Chaos and hatred. But our magnificent Empress lead us into battle, fighting back against these dark creatures, and bringing us victory against Evil!"

Evil? Well, maybe she would have believed that if Solus hadn't told them that Griffons and others could be just as harmonious as anypony.

"But vanquishing them was not enough. They were still a threat to the Empire, so Her Radiance led a crusade against the filth of this world, hunting them down, destroying their lairs and liberating the lands they were oppressing. Three of the four Archduchy were formed during this crusade: Monsoriens, the land of the griffons, Corignis, the nest of the fire-worms and Transalbania, home to all kind of foul creatures, even today still a menace to Imperial citizens."

Cady raised her hoof.

"Mister Compendium?"

"Yes?"

"What happened to the creature living there?", she asks.

Somehow, she thought she could guess their fates, but she wanted to know for sure.

"They were tamed and put to work for the Greater Good. Those too wild to be tamed were exterminated."

Oh. How many...?

"Still, we brought them peace and enlightenment, for the now follow the Sacred Scriptures of our Radiant Lady. And one day, all of Creation shall submit to the benevolent rule of our Divine Mother."

Right...

"Hmm, it seems we will have leave at this for today. I will see you tomorrow, Cadance, Sir Armour."

Cady blinks. It's already over? Fine by her. She gather her things and leave with Shining.

Shiny leans toward her as the walk away from Diurne's apartment.

"No wonder Solus hates him, uh?", he whispers.

She snorts. Solus indeed hated him with a passion. He said he was one of the worst historian he ever had the displeasure of meeting. Something about history needing to be as objective as it could be, which was a concept Diurne did not seem to understand. On top of being pretty boring, too.

They continue walking before they reach an intersection.

"Well, see you later Shiny", she says. "Good luck with your training!", she adds with a smile.

He grimaces before replying.

"Good luck with Strict Rule", he says cheekily.

That makes Cady shiver. That meany-pants was one of the worst stick-in-the-mud she had ever met, even Solus feared him.

"Away with you, you mockingbird! At least you actually learn something useful!", she shoots back at him.

"What? But knowing which fork to use for dessert is plenty important!", he says, barely concealing his laughter.

Cady narrows her eyes.

"Continue like that, young stallion, and I'll tell him you've using the wrong spoon when you eat your soup!", she threatens.

That stops his mirth right there and then.

"You wouldn't?!", he says with eyes wide in fear.

She smiles.

"Not if you play nice."

He pouts and turns his head away.

"Fine. You win that one, Cady."

"As always", she replies while putting a hoof on her chest.

"Yeah right..."

He shakes his head, smiling.

"Anyway, see you later!", he says as he leaves.

"See you later, Shiny!", Cady replies with a smile.

Oh, that she hate etiquette. Couldn't Solus have needed a cook or a bard?

Fancy Pants notices her coming in and walk up to her, bowing.

"Welcome back, Miss Cadance, how was your day?"

She smiles. Fancy was always so nice.

"It was good, thank you for asking, Mister Fancy!", she says with cheer.

"Good, good! Unfortunately, it is not over yet."

"What? What do you mean? Do we have a lesson?"

His face scrunch up minutely, enough so that she doubted most ponies would have noticed.

"Not...exactly. Come with me, Master Solus needs your assistance."

"Solus? Is something wrong?", she asks worriedly.

"No."

There was a "but" there, but what is it?

She follows after him, walking through the halls of the castle. A dozen minutes later, they arrive at the main courtyard, where a carriage is present. Fancy enter it without hesitation, and beckons her to do the same. The carriage starts moving.

She's now really nervous. Fancy was never this quiet before.

Several minutes later, they reach what looks to be a simple shop. Fancy nods to the shopkeeper as they enter, before going in the backstore. The shopkeeper comes in after them, using his magic to reveal a trapdoor.

Now she was really afraid. But she kept silent. Solus said Fancy could be trusted, so it's fine.

They enter the passage, dark and damp, with only Fancy's magic to light their way. Soon after they reach a door, covered in glowing symbols. And...

Is it humming?

"Miss Cadance?"

The sudden sound startles her, but she looks up to Fancy nonetheless.

"Y-yes?"

"Master Solus awaits you inside."

Inside? Why?

"What does he want me to do?"

"I...I cannot tell you. All I can tell you is that he trusts your capacity to be good, as well as your capacity to see good in others. Remember that."

He opens the door, manually, and gesture for her to enter.

She does, reluctantly. As soon as she cross the threshold, the door close behind her. She feared the room would be dark, but it's actually well lit, by glowing symbols similar to the one on the door. They are everywhere, walls, floor and ceiling. She would have preferred if the room was dark. In the middle of it all, was Solus.

"Solus?", she asks with a anxious voice.

"Hello, Cadenza", he says, his back still turned toward her. Was it just her or did his voice sound...cold?

And also, 'Cadenza'?

"Is something wrong, Solus?", she asks, worried for her fr-brother.

He laughs. It's a rough, bitter sound, entirely unlike the Solus she knew.

"Oh, no! I've never felt better, in fact!", he says, finally turning to face her.

"Solus, what is that?", she says, pointing to the necklace he was wearing. It was made of a dark metal, with a blood-red jewel shaped like a heart. And the jewel was glowing, but not like the symbols, its light was sickening and just wrong.

He places a hoof on it, smiling. Or trying to.

"This? This will allow me to match my Mother in power. It's the Amulet of Amplification by Jealousy, or the Amulet of Amplified Jealousy, both are correct translations. It feeds on jealousy and other negative emotions to give power to it's bearer, and this world is filled with them!"

"But that's wrong!", she protests.

He quirks an eyebrow.

"Wrong? Why? I'd get rid of her and then I would rule. Rule and bring peace and prosperity to this world. There's a reason I was born, after all."

She felt her eyes water. This was a nightmare, it had to be a nightmare!

"That's not you! You told us we should try to uphold Harmony!"

He smiles at her, a twisted, hollow thing.

"And we will. When this is over, and the world is guided by my benevolent tyranny."

"Do you even realize how much you sound like your mother?"

His eyes narrows and he bares his teeth, which seemed oddly sharp for a pony.

"Don't you dare compare her to me!", he shouts, stomping toward her.

"I'M NOTHING LIKE HER, DO YOU HEAR ME!?", he screams with fury.

Cadance steps back, but still hold her grounds.

"Then stop acting like her!", she retorts.

His face is twisted by an ugly snarl. He strikes her, growling like a savage beast. It sends her sprawling to the ground, disoriented. She can taste blood in her mouth, and she thinks one or two of her teeth are loose.

"I AM NOT LIKE HER! I'LL NEVER BE LIKE HER!", he shouts with an unnaturally loud voice.

She fights back her tears and stand back up.

"Then stop! The Solus I know would never hurt me!", she shouts back.

He stumbles back, looking like he was the one who was slapped.

"HUrt you?", he says, his voice becoming soft as a whisper. "I'd never hurt you..."

Cady smiles softly.

"I know."

"...it's your fault."

What?

"You made me angry. But I'll forgive you this time", he says with a deranged smile

No! that's not at all what she meant!

"Please, Solus! Remove the Amulet!"

His smiles turn into an angry rictus, with him glaring at her.

"What? Never! I've never felt more in control in my entire life here! I'm no longer at the mercy of that bitch or Proper or ANYONE ELSE!!!"

"No! You can't think like that! You'll be just like them!", she cries out.

His horn lights up, and she suddenly feels like her body is on fire. She falls down, writhing in pain.

"SILENCE! I'M TIRED OF PLAYING THE HERO! I'M TIRED OF CARING, FEARING EACH DAY THAT YOU'LL ALL BE TAKEN FROM ME! I'M TIRED OF FIGHTING FOR THE GOOD CAUSE, WHEN I COULD JUST KILL EVERYONE WHO STAND IN MY WAY!"

She could feel his magic enveloping her, hurting her. But there was something else. There was...

Love...love twisted by a dark force. She reached out to it, by pure instinct. The darkness tried to seep into her, but it was burned by her compassion. She soldiered on, taking a hold of it. It screamed as the darkness was burned away, replaced by a warm light.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING! STOP THIS AT ONCE, YOU BITCH!", Solus shrieks.

She ignore the shadow that took her brother away, reaching deeper in the well of energy, to the source of the darkness. She entered, and she felt the anger, the pain, the hatred. She took it all in and gave patience, care and understanding in return. The core of darkness slowly turned into light, and she felt energized by it.

"NO, IT'S MINE! IT'S MY POWER! STOP IT!"

She took in the light, and she felt strong, stronger than ever before. The light grew, and grew, and grew, until the world faded away.

She opened her eyes, her mind clear and free of any and all worry.

She stood up and looked around, gazing at the oniric landscape. The sky and the land were one, all streams of light and mist and stars, of every colors and of every shape, flowing quickly and slowly at the same time. It stretched on forever, but it felt cozy and familiar.

'Where am I?'

She hadn't opened her mouth, and yet she had heard her own voice. But it was different. It was warm, pure, confident, regal. The voice she associated with the alicorns of old that Macintosh's parents told him about.

'Cadance?'

Solus? Where is he?

'Where are you?'

'I don't know! Help me!'

His voice sounds strange, it's...childish and fearful. The complete opposite of his usual voice. It's also hard to hear, like it's only half there. She looks around, trying to find him. She feels his presence, but...

There!

'Solus!'

She reaches out to him. He seems so...distant. His body is like a half-formed mirage, the suggestion of a pony's form. But there's something else, the impression of a tall silhouette, towering over him, casting a cold shadow over him.

'Cadance!'

He sounds afraid and desperate. Cadance runs toward him, enveloping him in her wings as soon as she reaches him.

'I'm here Solus, you don't have to be afraid anymore.'

'It was so scary, Cadance! I was alone and you were gone and everything is so strange and-'

'Shhh, it's alright, everything's fine.'

'It's not! I tricked you, I lied to you!'

His voice was changing, becoming hollow and full of regret and despair, a voice of an old, tired soul.

'It's okay, I forgive you.'

'But I lied to you! I lied to Mac and Shiny and I killed Proper! How many more will I kill because I think I'm better than them? How many lives will I break while I try to save them?'

'Sol-'

'But noooo! I have to cling to the past, to what was supposed to happen! A future that I'm not even sure is true!'

His form was fading, and the world around them was rippling like a sea in the middle of a storm.

'Solus!'

'And then I go right ahead and use all of you, exactly like Celestia would! I really am just a clone of her...'

'Solus.'

He looks up, his eyes empty, desperate to be reassured.

'You saved us. You love us. We want to help you, and we trust you. You don't have to feel bad about that.'

'But I manipulated you...I lied to you.'

'And that's fine. I've known since the beginning that you knew more that you let on, and I'm sure you have your reason to keep that knowledge a secret.'

'But-'

'No but. Isn't that what you always say to Shining Armour when he beats himself up over nothing?'

'I guess...'

'It's going to be fine, Solus. It's time to go home.'

'Okay. Where are we, anyway?'

'Everywhere.'

Cadance opens her eyes and stands up, feeling very much awake, to her surprise. She looks around and see Solus on the ground, seemingly doing much less fine than herself. She helps him up and then hug him.

"Cady?", he asks, uncertain.

"I'm here, Solus. Everything is fine", she reassures him. She lets go and smile. "Do you remember what I said?"

"I...I do. It seems like an half remembered dream, but I do remember everything you told me."

"And do you believe me?", she asks.

He looks at her with a small smile.

"I do. Thank you, Cady. Also, you should cross your eyes", he says, his smile turning mischievous.

"Huh?"

What did he...

What is that pink thing on her forehead? Is that...is that a horn!?

"Why do I have a horn?", she says, beginning to panic.

Solus puts a hoof on her wither, rubbing it gently.

"It's okay! That's exactly what I wanted!"

"And what would that be?", she says in a shrill voice.

"I wanted you to become an alicorn."

That make her freeze. Alicorn? Her?

"I'm-I'm not an alicorn!"

His hoof squeeze her wither gently.

"Yes you are. That's why I went to such lows as to use that cursed amulet", he says, hanging his head in shame.

"Solus...I really am an...?"

"Yeah."

"But, I'm just a pegasus..."

He looks up, his look full of anger.

"Don't say that. Do not ever say that. My mother's bullshit has nothing to do with this. You deserve to be an alicorn. You earned it. Entirely and completely. I simply helped things along. The potential is all yours."

She smiles.

"Okay."

And then that smile promptly falls off her face.

"Uh, Solus?", she asks.

"Yeah?"

"How are you going to hide my new horn from, well, everypony?"

He smiles.

"I actually have something for that!"

He goes to a corner of the room, where a simple box lays on the floor. He picks it up in his magic and opens it, revealing a golden necklace inside.

"It's not exactly what I wanted to get, but I'll get you a better one when I can.", he says, looking contrite.

"Uh? What are you talking about, it's-"

She cuts herself off when she realizes what he meant. It's not exactly a necklace. It's a collar.

"I'm sorry", he says, his eyes filled with sadness. "It needed to be inconspicuous and large enough for the runes to be etched on it."

Oh.

"It's...it's okay. I don't mind. I know you don't think of me that way."

He's clearly still sad, but he nods his understanding nonetheless.

"Why don't you try picking it up with your magic?", he suggests with a wan smile.

"My magic? How?", she asks, genuinely curious.

"Reach for your essence, your Heart of heart. Considering what you did with the amulet, I think it won't be the first time you did so."

Reach for her...

She closes her eyes and breathe deeply, like she had seen him do countless times before. She reached out for the same warmth and light that allowed her to help Solus. She was so focused that she no longer noticed what was going on around her. The light, the warmth...

There!

She opens her eyes and look up at her horn, covered with a cyan energy.

"Is that it?", she asks.

"Indeed it is! That's great, Cadance! You'll master magic in no time at all!", he answers enthusiastically.

"So, what do I do with it?", she says, smiling.

"Oh, right! you need to envelop the collar in your magic, like a blanket. Not too much, or you'll crush it, but also not so little that you'll let go of it. It would be best if you start small and then increase the output."

She does as she says. It takes a quite a few tries, but she manages to lift it up, with a semblance of stability.

"Good", he says. "Now, reel it in."

She brings it closer, around her neck, and closes it.

The flow of energy abruptly stop.

"Solus?", she asks, worried.

"It's okay, it's meant to do that. It wouldn't do for you to accidentally do magic in public. I'm really sorry."

"Oh. It's...I really hate the Imperial Order."

He snorts.

"You're not the only one. Come on, let's get out of here, Fancy must be worried sick!", he says, heading for the door.

"Oh, I nearly forgot he was here!", she says, following hurriedly after him.

Author's Note

Sorry for the wait. I'm currently in a collaboration project and my turn was up to write a chapter.

Also, I tried something different with this chapter: a third-person narrative! If I made any significant mistakes or if I could do certain things better, be so kind as to tell me. This story is mostly for me to learn how to write properly, so any and all criticism is welcome!

Affirmation

Oh stars, what the fuck did I just do? I didn't think the amulet would be so...alluring! At the very least the runes I commissioned should have been enough to prevent Celestia from sensing Cadance's ascension. Though I wonder if they were necessary...I was only half there, as opposed to Cadance, who was completely there and completely in, well, harmony with her surroundings. If I was only half there, even though I'm an alicorn with somewhat good intentions, I wonder if Celestia would have access to wherever we were. Hopefully not. It would make things considerably easier, especially if that line of thought applies to other things related to Harmony, like the Elements.

Anyway.

"Cady, you'll have to open the door", I tell my sister-in-all-but-name. Argh, why did I do that to her?

"Uh? Why?", she asks with her eyebrows raised in confusion.

"The door is attuned to you. It was made that way so I couldn't escape while I was still...corrupted."

She looks at me with a wan smile.

"You really planned this all out, didn't you?", she says in a whisper.

"Cady, I...,*sigh*, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have-"

"It's fine, Solus", she interrupts me. "I mean, I'm an alicorn! I can't be mad because of that, can I?"

Yes. Yes you can.

"Okay", I mutter. "Anyway, just place your hoof there", I say, pointing to a specific rune on the door, "and think really hard about everything being safe and a-okay."

"Is that all?", she replies, surprised. "I don't have to use my magic?"

I shake my head.

"No. Your transformation wasn't a certainty, so if we had keyed the runes to your unicorn magic, which we couldn't have at the time, anyhow, and considering this room is probably one of the most warded place in existence, or close enough to it, we would have been trapped in here, with only somepony with great magical power, like my mother for example, as our only chance to get out of here."

"Oh. That sounds bad."

I snort.

"Quite. At any rate, we should get out of here."

"Right!", she says as she walks to the door and place her hoof on it. "Safe, it's safe...", she begins to whisper, closing her eyes, her face scrunching up because of her effort to focus.

The runes on the door slowly dim, in a rather erratic fashion, like a light bulb who isn't screwed in right. It seems I'll have to help Cadance with her focus. But well, she's just six. Not many children have that kind of control on their mind, at least not those who aren't reincarnated humans.

It takes a a few more seconds before the door open, revealing a rather panicky Fancy Pants waiting on the other side. When he sees Cadance, he promptly wrap her up with his legs, nuzzling her.

"Are you alright? Are you hurt? Did he do something-"

Cadance interrupts him by booping him.

"I am, I'm safe and unhurt", she says with a reassuring smile.

He sighs, visibly relieved. He turns to look at me.

"Did it work?"

I smile.

"It did. The world has a new alicorn."

"By the Sun, I can't believe it actually worked!", he says with excitement audible in his voice. "Is it that easy to make alicorns? Did Celestia lie to us about her nature?"

I shake my head.

"Unfortunately, no. Alicorns, while not gods, are still heralds of Harmony. A pony needs to have great potential to be able to ascend to such a state." I look to Cadance and I smile. "Cadance was one such pony."

Fancy smiles too, looking at the filly in his hooves.

"That she is", he says. "Now, let us leave this dreadful place at once!"

I nod in agreement.

"Indeed. Lets go, then!"

Fancy let go of Cadance and stand up, still smiling. I should try spending more time with all of them. Who knew Fancy had become so...fatherly towards Cady? Which is fine by me. While I may have a mature mind, I sincerely doubt any of them see me as a parental figure. If Fancy can fill that role, that's perfect, especially for Cadance. Lard knows she needs to have every advantage she can get if she is to rule Equestria. I'm sure she'd make a much better ruler than me. Or at the very least I'll make sure she is.

"You're back!", Shiny exclaim. "Where were you? We were so worried!"

We? Oh, Mac's back. Is it really that late already?

"Sorry you two, I'll explain in just a moment", I say, then turn to Fancy. "Fancy, would you please take care of the staff?"

He bows.

"At once, your Serene Highness."

He walks away and I turn back to Mac and Shiny.

"Come on, we'll need privacy for this."

I lead them to my bedroom, then cast the privacy spell.

Mac looks at me with an inquiring look.

"So, what's this about?"

"Yeah! Did something happen?", Shiny adds, with a worried tone to his voice.

I wave my hoof.

"Nothing bad. If anything, we'll probably never have any better news in our lifetime."

That make the both of them stare at me with wide, disbelieving eyes. Cadance steps up, with a small smile adorning her face.

"I wouldn't have been so dramatic about it, but it is indeed very good news."

"What is it?", Mac says with a slight frown.

He really hates it when something happens and he can't do anything about it, doesn't he? Not surprising, all things considered, though I hope being such a worrywart won't bite him in the flank.

"I...well, I don't really know how to say that appropriately", Cady says with a thoughtful expression. "It just seems like I'd need to say more, but...I'm an alicorn!"

"What!?", both colts shout in surprise.

"You heard her right, she's an alicorn", I assure them with a smile.

"But she doesn't have a horn!", Shiny protests, incredulous.

Mac seems to agree with that statement, if his questioning look is anything to go by.

"You see her collar?", I ask while gesturing to said object with my hoof. "It's enchanted so it hides her nature even from my mother."

Shiny and Mac come closer, looking at the collar.

"Really?", Shining asks, while poking it.

"Really", I say, my smile widening.

"How did she do it?", Mac asks.

"Err..."

What do I say to that?

"He tested me", Cadance interject. "He and Fancy made a test to see if I had what it took to be an alicorn, and I did."

Succinctly put, if a bit misleading because of that.

"Wow, I knew you were smart, but to become an alicorn...", Shiny says, with a voice filled with wonder. "Could I become one too?"

Ooh, those puppy eyes...

"I...", I begin, uncertain as to how to continue. "I don't...think so, Shiny. Sorry."

His ears fold back and he looks down. Shiny...

"Oh, right, like I could-"

"Shining Armour!", Cady and I say at the same time.

We look at each other, clearly as surprised as the other is. I nod my head, letting her know that he's all hers.

She walks up to Shiny and lift his head up with her hoof.

"Shiny, only a very small number of ponies have the potential to become an alicorn, and of those, most don't even know about it", she says with a smile, placing her hoof on his wither. "You're a very special colt nonetheless. You're kind and gentle, loyal, dedicated and diligent. Solus couldn't have asked for a better knight, and I couldn't have asked for a better friend."

He looks at her, teary-eyed, and then turn his head to look at me. I smile brightly and nod. He then look to Mac, with the latter simply smiling and saying:

"Eeyup."

"Oh, I...I'm such a crybaby-"

I step up to him.

"Maybe, but you'll grow up. And there's nothing wrong with tears. Just stop putting yourself down over nothing, okay?"

He sniffles and wipe his tears away with his foreleg.

"Okay. Anyway, congratulation, Cadance", he says with a wide, if slightly brittle, smile.

"Yeah, congrats, Cady", Mac says.

"Thank you both, I couldn't have done it without such good friends...wait, Solus?"

"Yes?", I say, confused as to what she might want to ask.

"What am I the alicorn of?", she asks with a questioning look.

"Pardon?"

"I mean, Celestia is the Alicorn of the Sun, right? So, what am I?"

Hmm, how do I say this? I mean, I know what her domain is, but how...well, actually...

"You used your love and understanding to pass the test. You're the Alicorn of Love."

She raises an eyebrow.

"Of love?"

"Yes, Love. Do consider the fact that Friendship is Magic, and Friendship is a sort of Love. You could hardly be more harmonious even if you tried."

"Wait, you really meant that?", Shiny asks, completely flabbergasted.

"I did. The Magic of Friendship is a real thing. It's how the Founders vanquished the windigo."

"Wait, I thought the Empress saved the first Equestrians?"

Isn't that surprising to learn?

*sigh*

"Yeah, no. She wasn't even there when the Long Winter was bearing down on the three tribes."

"But my mother-"

"Your mother was lied to, and so was the person who told her that, and so on and so forth. Celestia lied in order to make herself look like a saviour, the messiah sent to save us all!"

"So everything I was told is false?", Shiny asks, seemingly confused and worried.

"Not...necessarily, but most of it is of dubious veracity. I don't know how much of it is true, I only have knowledge of a few big events. Considering Celestia would suppress any dissent, I don't think we'll know any time soon."

"Oh, right. I just thought...forget it, I'm just being stupid", he says, scrapping the floor with his hoof.

"Shiny, say that again and I'll have you do extra lesson with Iron Rod", I admonish him. "What did you think?"

"I...I thought that Celestia was still, you know, good?", he answers hesitatingly.

Oh. Shit.

"I..."

*sigh*

"I don't know. She is a tyrant, but I think she genuinely thinks she's doing what's best for Equestria, and won't let anyone tell her otherwise."

"So what are you going to do? Didn't you say you wanted to bring Harmony back?"

I look to Cady and Mac, who look just as saddened as me.

"I'm going to fight her."

"Fight?! Fight the Empress? Isn't that treason?", he screams, panicked.

"It is, but so many are suffering because she rules. If it weren't for me, Mac and Cady..."

That make Shining stop and gape like a fish.

"Bu-but, she...she...she is our Light...is that...is that a lie, too?", he asks, in a quiet whisper, looking down at his hooves.

I slowly hug him, softly wrapping my wings around him.

"Sorry, Shining. If you're unwilling to follow me in treason, I'll understand. I'll release you of your oath and make sure you are able to live a comfortable life, away from me", I say softly, petting his mane.

He stays silent for a moment, before he whispers inaudibly.

"What did you say?", I ask calmly, in a reassuring tone.

"I...I'll stay. Celestia never helped me, you did. She never stopped my mother when she was hitting me. She never answered my prayers, but you did. I love you, Solus, you're my best friend, and nothing will ever change that."

I smile softly and nuzzle the top of his head. You silly pony...

"I won't let you down, I promise."

Author's Note

I'm really sorry for the delay! It just...well I decided to take a pause because I didn't know how to continue from where I left off, then I watched Game of Thrones, which frustrates me to no end because this season is stupid as all goes. Then I suddenly had the desire to play Dragon Age: Inquisition again, only Origin was being very uncooperative (Wow, a EA product working like crap, unbelievable!) and I had to fight it for a whole day before finally making it work. Sort of. I had to reinstall it, but the website didn't let me, so I downloaded the installation package from my brother's computer, which is connected to the same internet rooter, by the way, and then I could finally play DA:I, which I was doing up until now. All in all, just a string of bad luck, essentially. The next chapter shouldn't take as long.

Caro Diario

After that rather eventful day, life continued. It wasn't the same, obviously, with Cadance being an alicorn and Shining Armour finally learning of my intentions toward Celestia. Speaking of the former, since we had to hide her horn, Fancy and I shared the role of teacher when it came to her magic. He had more experience with the more mundane aspects of magic and as such taught Cady control and focus as well as coaching her when it came to simple spell like levitation. However, he wasn't a mage, and as such he only had a basic grasp of magical theory. When it came to that, I was the one to teach Cadance, since Celestia clearly wanted me to be able to use my magic to its fullest potential.

It is rather fortunate that this body came with a near-photographic memory, or I'd be struggling to remember all the knowledge that was crammed into my head since I was just a babe. Unless that's an alicorn thing...I mean, we're ageless and immune to severe diseases (Thus not including things like colds). It's probably Harmony protecting us from harm, and a cold is unlikely to kill us, especially with earth pony vitality turned up to eleven. With such a long lifespan, a good memory is a must. I sincerely doubt Harmony would be such a dick as to leave us without the ability to remember our loved ones from millennia ago. Hopefully. Having to live without being able to remember Shining or Mac...

And then I remember all the fanfic about Twilicorn being unable to cope with her immortality. Sweet, sweet nightmare fuel.

Anyway.

So yeah, I'm teaching Cady magic. It's kind of slow going, honestly. Not entirely surprising, mind you, considering she was born as a pegasus and on top on that she probably has an affinity for light magic, or magic born out of positive emotions, which is a rather rare discipline to choose for a mage. I wonder why that would be. It certainly has nothing to do with Celestia suppressing any and all knowledge of such magic in fear that it will be used against her. Especially if she indeed was corrupted like Luna was.

As for Shiny, he seems to have been able to cope with the revelation of my plan, though I am a bit worried about how obsessed he seem to be with me. Devotion is fine, it's just a step away from Loyalty, but it's also a step away from platonic yandere-ness. I hope it would be platonic, at the very least. Damnit! Don't think of your brother that way, stupid paranoid brain!

At any rate, Shiny and Cady seems to get along just fine, so I don't think I need to worry about that. Though, considering their age, they might develop something more akin to fraternal love. I hope not, if they could give birth to an alicorn...Gah! No! Stop thinking of them as pawn, you fucking arsehole of an inbred abomination!

Hem-hem. Anyhow, as I was saying, they're getting along great, with Cady doing her best to help him. Which is quite the providence, considering I'm sure Shiny would not want to confide his troubles with me. It's not that he doesn't trust me, but he has so little self-esteem that he's sure I'll cast him out of my life as soon as I see what a mess he is. I've been trying to curb those self-destructive thoughts, but if he's not willing to tell me, he'll just hide them so he won't be a "bother".

The whole thing is rather cruelly ironic anyhow, since he's actually quite the adept student, both in academical and physical subjects. It's not for nothing his canon counterpart became Captain of the Royal Guard. And he's also Twilight's brother. I find it unlikely that the show's Shining was book dumb.

I also have Mac report on their lessons together, since I don't want the pony version of Full Metal Jacket.

What else is there...

Oh right! Sunset Shimmer! She's actually rather nice, all things considered. She has a nasty temper and she's a blockhead when it comes to her pride, but otherwise she's a good friend. She even began teaching me a few basic manipulation techniques. Okay, not usually what you do with friends, but we're in Game of Thrones - Pony Edition, so I don't think it's all that bad. Her mother on the other end...

She's such a suck-up, always with that saccharine tone of hers when she speaks to me. Could she be any more obvious? She actually reminds me of Dolores Umbridge. Except she has real political power. Ooh, that's not a pleasant thought.

Other than that, I tried introducing her to the others but that did not go well. At all. Mac obviously hates her, since he thinks she's everything he hates in nobles. She reciprocate the hate, saying he's just an ingrate upstart. After that, I made sure they were never in the same room together. Her relationship with Cadance is rather lukewarm, not least of all because Sunset feels compelled to make Cady her rival. I think she's jealous of her, though I don't really know why. I have some ideas, but they're mostly just wishful thinking... As for her relations with Shining...yeah, no. They hate each other. It's one of the few subjects where Shiny will be absolutely firm in his position, completely unwilling to have anyone to try and reason with him.

So, yes. They don't usually spend time together.

That's about it, I think. Cady was right, a diary was real~~----------~~

The door slams open, startling me. Shining comes in, his eyes having a wild, frantic look.

"Solus!", he shouts.

"What is it, Shining?", I ask in a worried tone.

What could have pushed him to barge in like that? He's usually so timid...

"My mother gave birth! I have a sister!"

Oh shit! I jump of my chair and go to him quickly.

"Really?"

"Really! Can I go see them?", he pleads with wide eyes.

"Of course! Have Fancy bring you there", I answer with a smile.

"Could you, uh, come...come with me?", he asks in a tiny voice.

I place a hoof on his wither.

"Of course, Shining. Lead the way, and let's welcome your sister to this world."

He smiles brightly and scampers away, looking for Fancy Pants.

Twilight has been born? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Maybe if I manage to place her under my influence...I'd rather not manipulate her too, but if she shows the same devotion to Celestia...

I'd rather not to have to kill her, or even worse...

Shining having to kill her.

I can't let that happen. I won't. No matter what...

Caesura (Shining Armour)

Oh Celestia, I'm so nervous! Is Mother going to kick me out when I get there? I hope not... I'm sure Solus would want me to get along with my family, especially my sister. He looked so excited when I told him...

Unless...

He knew that Cadance could become an alicorn, what if-

No! He isn't like that! He helped me, comforted me, lo-

He's here for me, not for her.

"Shining?"

Uh? Oh! He was talking!

"S-sorry, I was just thinking about...stuff", I answer lamely.

He smiles. Order, his smile is so warm and bright...

"It's fine", he says with a wave of his hoof. "I was just asking if you felt alright?"

"If I...? Yes, yes I am!", I reply hastily.

He lifts an eyebrow, just slightly.

"Oookay, if you say so. But Shiny, just one thing: you don't need to hide things from me, okay?"

I nod weakly.

"Okay."

We fall silent. Not an awkward silence, more like, what was it again? Oh, "companionable silence"! That's it! I don't really like my lessons with Lady Verse, but I want to be as, uh, as eloquent as Solus! If I'm not, he'll think I'm stupid!

A few minutes later, the carriage stop, and the door is opened by a pegasus guard.

"We are here, Sire", he says, bowing his head.

The guard then deploy the steps and Solus and I get off. Solus turn to me and smiles reassuringly.

"It's going to be fine, Shining."

I smile back, weakly. I really hope he's right. We walk to the entrance, where the guard knock on the door. A moment later, a frantic servant open the door.

"What is it? We are not receiving visitors!", he says angrily.

"Hold your tongue, you're in the presence of the Prince!", the guard snaps back.

The servant looks down and sees us, which make his eyes widen up even more than they were. He bows, but only slightly.

"I'm dreadfully sorry, Prince, but we really don't have the time to entertain...Lord Armour?", he asks.

"Y-yes! What's going on?"

I'm getting real worried. I've never seen the servants so... frightened?

"You don't know?", he asks incredulously.

"We know that Lady Velvet is giving birth", Solus intervene, "is there anything else to know?"

The servant bites his lip, clearly unwilling to answer. He looks at me, his eyes full of sadness.

"I'm sorry, my lord, the delivery... the physicians had to resort to a caesarean section..."

A what?

"Bring us to her, now!", Solus commands.

"Of course, Your Highness!"

"Solus? What's going on?", I ask while we run toward my mother's bedchamber.

He looks at me quizzically, until a look of comprehension enters his eyes.

"Shiny, a caesarean... it's a last resort, if they had to..."

No.

"I'm so sorry. I hope I'm wrong..."

No...

"We're here, Your Highness!"

Nononnono...

"Shiny...?"

Mother?

I go to her side, where a few unicorns are bickering about what to do. About what, I don't know, but I don't care. She looks awful, sweaty and pale, her coat lacking its usual lustre and her mane is a mess of tangles.

"Mom?", I ask in a strangled whisper.

She smiles weakly, her eyes, tired and glazed over, full of love.

"I...am so...sorry...I should not...have asked...so...much. I just...wanted...you to be...great...", she says in a raspy voice.

"M...mom?", I choke out, fighting back my tears.

Suddenly, a foal's cries ring out, a sharp contrast to the silent room.

"Ah! I did it! She breathes!", one of the bickering unicorn crows.

"Let...let me...hold her...", Mom says in a whisper.

"Oh, uh, of course!", he says, using his magic to give her the foal.

"Shiny?", Mom chokes out. "Meet your...sister...Twilight...Sparkle..."

"Hel-sniff-he...Hi...", I say, choking on nothing.

I won't cry, I can't cry...

"Please...help her...Shiny...?"

"I will! I swear I will! I'm so sorry for-"

"It's...okay..."

Suddenly, I grow aware that Solus is bickering with the physicians, and not that quietly, either.

"Just do it, dammit!", Solus grounds out, clearly exasperated.

"But Your Highness, this procedure is highly dangerous-"

"I. Don't. CARE! I order you to do it! NOW!", he shouts, stomping his hoof strongly enough that I feel the vibration.

"V-very well, my Prince."

He goes to the other side of the bed and lean towards Mom.

"Lady Velvet, the Prince intends to enact a procedure which-"

"I'll give him my power so he can heal you", Solus interrupts.

What? Why would he...?

"Your...Highness...why...?", Mom asks.

"Why not? How could I live with myself if I didn't try to help when I could?"

Mom doesn't seem to understand, but smile nonetheless. She nods slightly. One of the physician takes the foal -Sparkle- away while the one who was by Mom's bedside lights up his horn. Solus does the same, though his is much brighter, enough so that I have to shield my eyes.

Then the light form a stream, starting from Solus' horn, going through the physician's before splitting up in several strands that wraps around and seep into Mom's body.

Is he really going to save her? Can he?

This goes on for what seems an eternity before the physician speaks up.

"Prince, we can't...continue...", he grunts, his eyes screwed shut with effort, his whole body shaking and drenched in sweat.

"Shut. Up", Solus replies, not looking any better.

"But-"

"Shut-arrgh!"

The stream flickers.

"If we continue, she'll drag us down with her!"

"No! Shut up! I won't-", he stops, choking, tears running down his cheeks. "I won't let them down again!"

The stream suddenly vanishes.

"NO!", Solus shouts at a deafening volume.

I look down to Mom.

"Mom?"

I poke her foreleg, but she doesn't respond.

"Mom?!"

I climb on the bed and push on her shoulder, trying to wake her up.

"Mom! Please, wake up!"

I feel a hoof on my wither.

"Shiny, stop..."

I ignore it, continuing to try and wake her up.

"Mom, wake up! MOM!"

Somepony hugs me, pinning my forelegs to my barrel.

"Stop, Shiny, it's too late. I'm sorry."

"No...she can't...can't..."

I try to fight back the tears, but before long I'm sobbing uncontrollably.

"I'm so sorry, Shining."

Author's Note

Don't worry, there's more coming soon. For real. As it happens, I've started school again, so I won't post as frequently. In other news, I would have finished this chapter yesterday but this freaking moron forgot his keys in his cars, so I was panicking like hell for most of the day before my father found my spare key. Admittedly I'm a new driver, but I'd like to think I'm less brain-dead stupid than that. Anyway, have a good day and don't be as stupid as me. The next chapter should come out today or tomorrow, as I am already working on it as I write this.

Arval

"I'm so sorry, Shining", I say.

He continues to shake and sob uncontrollably. I try to move him away from the cor-from his mother, but he clings desperately at her.

What do I do now? I failed, again, and now I've got to console him, but how do I do that?

"Shining Armour?", somebody asks.

Shiny's head snaps right up, right into my head, but he doesn't seem to care. He stands up and go to the foot of the bed.

"WHERE WERE YOU!?", he shouts angrily.

"Shiny, I was just talking with-"

"I DON'T CARE! YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN HERE!"

Twilight begins to wails, unsurprisingly. Shiny promptly shuts up, jumping off the bed, running to his sister's side. The maid who was holding her lower herself so Shiny can see her.

"Shhh, it's okay, Twily, everything's fine, shhh...", he whispers softly.

Is that what it took for Shiny to be confident like his canon counterpart? No wonder Twilight called him BBBFF...

The stallion, I assume Shining's father, approach them cautiously.

"I'm...sorry Shining, you shouldn't have been..."

He stops there, clearly too distraught to continue. I imagine having your wife die when you're in the room beside the one where she died would be pretty shitty. Especially if your son was there, instead of you.

"Shining, did she say...did she say something before...?", Night Light asks, his voice weak.

Shining looks up, his eyes full of determination.

"She did. She asked me to protect Twilight. And I will, I swear", he says, his voice filled with confidence.

Just as he finished saying that, light flashed from his flanks, leaving behind an emblem.

"Is that...?", Shining asks, but is unable to finish due to being overwhelmed by what had just happened.

"It is", I say, sitting next to him. "It's your emblem."

Said emblem was the same as the one from the show: a shield, three stars over it, and the starburst of Magic on the shield.

"A shield", I continue, "for our knight in shining armour, who has sworn to protect us", I say with a small smile.

He looks at me, seemingly surprised by what I just said.

"R-really?", he asks in a small voice.

Night Light answers before I can say anything.

"Of course", he says with a warm, if shaky, smile. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you, Shining Armour."

It's good to know at least one of his parents wasn't an abusive jerk. Whatever. I get up and head for the door. It's probably better for them to be with family. I walk up to my guard.

"Go fetch Lord Fancy Pants at once", I order him.

"Sire, I can't leave you-"

"I sincerely doubt anypony is going to assault me while you are gone. Do as I say, I need him here, now."

The guard sighs, but still turns around and head for the exit.

Oh, this is going to be a clusterfuck of a political mess.

"Master Solus, you asked for me?", Fancy says as he bows.

"I did. Did the guard fill you in on the situation?", I ask.

His ever-present smile fades away quickly.

"He did. Dreadful, quite simply dreadful. But why did you ask for me? If you wanted a pony to help Sir Armour through these harrowing times, wouldn't Macintosh and Cadance have been better suited for this?", he asks with a eyebrow raised.

"That's not why I asked you here. Please cast the privacy spell before we continue."

That get his other eyebrow to rise up, but he complies nonetheless.

"What is this about, Solus?", he asks with a quizzical look.

"Do you think Lord Night Light will be an effective regent for his daughter?", I ask.

There's no point beating around the bush, even if it seems harsh. Fancy raise a hoof to his chin, looking thoughtful, doing so for a few moments before answering.

"No. He's a good stallion, but a completely inept player, which is not helped by his unfortunate name and appearance."

"How can I protect their family?"

"Aah", he says with a sudden look of understanding. "Well, Lady Velvet was rather proactive in her approach to the Game, which made several nobles hate her and fear her. Unfortunately, with Shining Armour already under your protection, doing the same with the rest of his family would greatly upset the nobility. Celestia never intervened in such a way, and they will most certainly petition her to overrule you."

Well, shit.

"However, there might be...another way", he adds, slightly hesitant.

"What is it?"

"The nobles would complain because they would see you as somepony trying to disrupt the Game. If you were to appear as a fellow player, however..."

"How?"

"A betrothal."

What.

"What", I say flatly.

"A betrothal. Oh, most will complain, but they won't bring it up to the Empress, as Twilight Sparkle and her family would become a part of the Imperial Household. That way, it will seem to be a move from a fellow player."

...

"Solus?"

"You...you want to me to marry a foal!?", I scream.

He raises his hoof in a appeasing gesture.

"I didn't say you had to consummate the relationship as soon as she flowers", he says quickly. "She simply has to be seen as a member of your family, that's all."

Callise! Like my life wasn't screwed up enough as it is!

"There's no other way?", I ask hopefully.

"Of course there is, but none that are as certain to produce the desired result. I wouldn't advise it if I wasn't sure this is the best course of action."

"What about my mother?"

"Hmm, I won't pretend to know how she will react. However, if we tell her you did so in order to bring the Duchy of Albany under the Crown's influence, then maybe she'll let it slide."

Fair enough. If she thinks I'm playing the Game I'll be able to pass off my rebellion as simply consolidating my political position.

*sigh*

"Fine, arrange the engagement with Lord Night Light and my mother", I say.

"At once, Your Highness."

We come back inside the room, where the grieving family is still trying to comfort each other. I lean toward Fancy, and he lower himself to my level.

"Night Light needs to show strength, help him direct the household before making the proposal", I whisper.

He stands back up, only giving me a slight nod in response, and walk to Night Light, talking to him, before they both leave, the dark-coated stallion clearly unwilling to leave. Get your head in the game, Solus. It's time to be there for your friend. I walk up to Shiny, sitting beside him. He's holding Twily in his forelegs, staring at her, the little foal sleeping peacefully. If only Shiny could be so lucky...

"What does Fancy want with my dad?", Shining whispers.

"He's helping him get control of the situation", I whisper back. "Your family can't afford to show weakness."

He frowns, snorting angrily.

"Stupid politics."

I smile weakly.

"Yeah... Shiny, there's something else."

He finally turns his gaze away from his sister, looking at me with confusion apparent in his eyes.

"What else is there?", he asks.

I bite my lip. I really don't want to say this...dammit, Celestia. Couldn't you have been like in the show?

"With...with your mother...gone, your family is severely weakened. Your father seems like a good pony, but he's not in any position to keep your mother's work from falling apart."

"So?", Shining asks with a raised eyebrow.

"You'll need protection. Unfortunately, with you already being under my protection, the nobles will refuse to allow me to do the same with the rest of your family."

"Plotholes...", he mutters.

I snort, before continuing.

"Quite. They won't allow it because they'll consider it a disruption of the 'Game'. However, should I do so while seeming to be a player myself..."

"How?"

There's no point in sugarcoating this, he'll want to throttle me, no matter what.

"A betrothal, between me and your sister", I answer bluntly, my voice even and neutral.

His face scrunch up, like he's ready to scream, but he swallows it back, before hissing is answer.

"What. The. Buck."

I rub the bridge of my nose and inhale slowly and deeply.

"They'll think I want to increase the Crown's influence, and as such won't complain about 'foul play'."

"That's...", he chokes at the end, though considering how he's glaring daggers at me, I imagine it's not because he wants to cry.

"Horrible. I know. But I promise I won't hurt her. As an alicorn, I don't really need an heir, so I don't have to, um, consummate, the relationship."

He clearly doesn't understand what I mean, but he still calms down. He breathes out loudly, hanging his head, before looking back up to me.

"It's the only way?", he asks in a small voice, glancing down at the foal in his grasp.

"The only viable way, yes", I say with a saddened frown. "Will you give your blessing, then?"

"Yes..."

I place a wing on his back.

"I'm sorry Shiny. At the very least, we'll really be brother now."

He smiles wanly, but doesn't answer.

After that, we remained silent for a while, Shining Armour rocking his baby sister and singing softly, until Fancy and Night Light came back.

"I imagine you already told my son about the betrothal", Night Light says.

I nod.

He sighs, before soldiering on.

"Right."

He smiles sadly.

"Considering I just handed over our titles over to you without much of a fight, I think it's clear that I am not suited in any way to lead our house."

Fancy places a hoof on his wither.

"Don't be so harsh on yourself. Not many could say that an alicorn is a friend of their family. You simply used an option that is exclusive to you", he says reassuringly.

Right, we're not manipulating a grief-stricken widower, at all. Shit.

I stand up, looking at Shining.

"You can stay here if you want, Shining Armour. You're dispensed from your lessons."

He looks up, nod, and continue to focus on his sister.

Righty-o. Dammit.

I turn to Night Light.

"We'll be taking our leave. We still have to convince the Empress to accept the betrothal. If you need help with the...funeral arrangement...simply send for Lord Fancy."

The stallion smiles tiredly.

"Understood, Your Highness. Good day to you, and thank you, for everything."

I nod, before following Fancy out of the room.

Time passes by like a blur. Celestia had surprisingly little to say about my betrothal. Her reasoning being, and I quote, "You'll outlive her". How cheerful. Though the way she said that does not inspire vision of a molestation-free future. Brr...

Anyway.

Fancy worked tirelessly to make sure everything was perfect, as well as helping the family cope with their loss. I have no idea what I would do without him... Cadance and Macintosh were also there to help comfort Shining. Well, I say Cadance and Mac, but it was mostly Cady. And me. He tried not to cry, but he has yet to succeed when he's not in Twily's presence. His sister give him the much needed strength to get through this harrowing trial. That's at least one thing to be glad for. I was afraid he'd hate his sister, but now he clearly loves her. Hurrah for happy endings. He thought with as much sarcasm he could muster.

The funeral itself was...meh. I was present, and so was anypony that was anypony. Everypony was crying and telling the family about their condolences and sympathies, about how they were at their service and blah and bleh. Considering how Night Light looked constipated for the whole thing, I'm pretty sure I wasn't the only one who was disgusted by the display of saccharine dishonesty. Shining though...

Shining didn't cry. He said she wouldn't have wanted him to. Though he did ask me something...

"Solus", he whispers, "do you think she really loved me in the end?"

I sigh, looking at him sadly. I place a wing on his back.

"Your mother...she wasn't a good pony, or a good mother. She did many bad things, but she did love you, of that, I am sure."

Or at the very least, that's what I like to believe. It's more probable she simply did what she did to feel less guilty about the abuse she heaped on Shining Armour, to ease her conscience before dying. Confession of regret about something you can't make up for aren't really worth much, in my opinion.

And now, thanks to her death, I find myself the fiance of a newborn foal. Hopefully I'll overthrow Celestia before we are expected to conceive an heir. At the very least, she'll be with her brother. I was worried him being my knight would prevent them from having the same bond as in canon. Maybe I'll have the help of another alicorn in the future...

At any rate, Shining is much more focused on his studies now. And much more mature too, it's like he aged up overnight. I hope he won't push himself too hard.

But life continues, no matter what, even if we think it should stop for us, and we must adjust to its flow or drown.

Devotion

Am I going to need those? I doubt socks would be well viewed there... Uhgh, why do I have to go there? I hate-

"Solus!", a child's voice shouts.

I turn around to look at the source and smile when I see who is there.

"Hello, Twily."

She runs towards me and jump, hugging my neck and hanging from it.

"Raven told me you were leaving! Why are you leaving?", she whines.

I shake my head. She's so cute. Not in that way. Fuck. No, not fuck. Callise!

Aaanyway.

I use my magic to get her off and set her down gently.

"I'm sorry Twily, I was going to tell you after I had finished packing", I say while mussing up her mane.

She slaps my hoof away and pout.

"Why do you have to leave, though?", she asks petulantly.

"Every noblecolts who are twelve of age have to go to the I.M.S., Twily. Even the Prince."

"But that's not fair! I barely see you at it is, now I won't see you at all!", she protests, quite loudly at that.

And to think I tried to stave off a potential relationship, of any nature, between her and me...

*sigh*

"I know Twily, I'm sorry, but I've got to go."

"S'not fair!", she shouts, stomping her hoof.

What the hell did I do to get her so attached to me?

"Twilight, stop bothering him", a voice says.

I look in the direction of the voice and see Shining Armour standing in the doorway, with a chiding look aimed at his sister.

"But Shinyyyy-"

"No but", he smiles slightly while saying that. It kind of became our in-joke over the years, especially when you consider how Twily is pretty much Little Shiny 2.0. "Now, come on, Father's looking for you."

That make Twi's pout disappear instantly, with a look of pure panic replacing it.

"He is?!", she cries out. "Ohnononono, did I do something wrong? Is he going to disown me? Banish me? Disown AND banish me?!"

All the while, she's holding her face and hyperventilating. Silly, silly pony. I hope it's not genetic. Not because I want to have kids with her! It's just because I'm immortal and I'll probably have to deal with...

Oh, fuck it! Shit!

Shining steps up to her and muss her mane, laughing a little.

"No, no, Twily, he just wants to spend time with you before you go to school."

"R-really?", she asks with an uncertain tone.

"Yes, really. Come on, get going!", he says while making a shooing motion with his hooves.

She starts running toward the door before she skids to a halt, turn around and tackle-hug me. Well, my leg, but still. She looks up to me, with wide, pleading puppy-eyes.

"Promise you won't leave without saying goodbye?", she asks in a wobbling voice.

"I promise, Twily", I say with a smile.

She let go and scampers quickly away.

"She's quite the hoofful, isn't she?", Shining says.

"I wonder who she got it from?", I say in a deadpan tone.

He smiles wistfully.

"I was quite the snowflake, wasn't I?"

"You weren't that bad. Plus, you got better."

That he did. From scrawny little colt to a broad-shouldered young stallion, from a shrinking violet to a confident knight. In just a few short years, he'll be just like the canon!Shining, though hopefully less useless when it comes to solving crises.

"Did I now? Enough for me to survive the I.M.S.?", he says with a raise eyebrow and small smirk.

"Bah, I'm sure you'll trounce everyone at the Imperial Military School", I say, waving my hoof. "The students are all as pretentious as the name of the institution. If you ever get beaten by one of them in a fair fight I'll have Iron Rod double your training."

"Then I'll just have to beat them all, right?", he says with a cocksure grin.

I roll my eyes and smile. Thankfully it's all playful banter. He's still a soft marshmallow, deep down.

"Anyway", I say, "did you finish packing up?"

"I did", he replies, nodding.

"Good! Let's go see Fancy to make sure everything is proceeding as it should!"

"Fancy! You've got everything under control?"

Fancy smiles and bow.

"I do, Master Solus. The preparations shall be done in a timely manner, well before you have to leave, I daresay."

"Great! I've got no idea what I would do without you..."

"Flail and scream, quite probably."

"Why you-"

Shining elbows me lightly.

"He's right, you know?"

"Yeah, yeah, am I ever so glad to have such faithful servants", I say with the most sarcastic tone I could muster.

They snicker while I glare at them, before I roll my eyes at their silliness.

"Anyway, where's Mac?", I ask.

"Hmm, I think...", Fancy says, while rubbing his chin. "Ah! He went to see Sergeant Iron Rod."

"He did? Well, anyhow, thank you for working so hard, Fancy."

"Bah, 'so hard'? You barely challenge me."

"Then I guess you'll pretty bored when we'll be gone."

"Well...I guess I will", he says, smiling. "I will miss you, Master Solus."

"So will I, Fancy."

As I say that, he hugs me.

"Please, don't do anything stupid. I've invested too much in you for you to die because of a drinking game or a similar idiocy."

I pat his back.

"I won't, Fancy. Thank you for everything."

He let me go, smiling, with a slight glimmer at the corner of his eye.

"You better, you silly colt."

I stick my tongue out at him.

"Come on! At least now you'll have the time to find yourself a pretty mare to marry, no?"

He becomes red with embarrassment.

"I have no idea of what you're talking about!"

I look at Shining with a smile.

"Yes you do~", we say in a sing-song tone.

"Begone with you, cheeky brat!", he says with mock anger.

We turn around and run, laughing. Smiles are better than frown, no?

We arrive at the courtyard, where we can see Mac and Iron Rod talking.

"...and you better take good care of the Prince, got that?"

"Got it, sir!", Mac replies, saluting.

"Good! Then get moving! You've got preparations to make, maggot!", he barks back.

"Sir, yes sir!"

He turns around and walk at brisk pace to the entrance of the courtyard.

I am rather surprised at how well those two get along, especially when you consider how the started off. But, well, I did tell the Sergeant to treat him like a son, and he did. I think. I imagine it's how he'd treat his kids, but I don't know for sure. At the very least, his training did get rather amazing results. Mac's looks much older than he really is. He's going to be a juggernaut when he's all grown up.

Mac arrive at the doorway, where we are waiting. He raises an eyebrow when he sees us.

"We were looking for you", I say. "Saying your goodbyes?", I ask.

He hums his confirmation.

"Have you got everything ready?"

"Eeyup."

I roll my eyes. That's one aspect of the show I could have done without.

"Then let's get back to my suite. Unfortunately, there's going to be an event to mark my Consecration of Devotion."

"Is it going to last a week like last time?", he asks, as we begin to walk through the halls of the Castle.

"Fortunately not. Since the Consecration is there to mark a colt's entry to the IMS or just a simple Militia Bureau for pegasi, it's usually a low-key affair."

"Usually, uh?", he says in a mocking tone.

"Yeah, yeah. I'm the Prince, of course everything I do has to be blown way out of proportion."

"Well, at least it's just this one night, so it's not that bad", Shining says.

"If you say so", I reply. "Personally I'd rather not have to suffer the noble's presence."

"Ey, I'm a noble!"

"Your point being?", Mac says with a smirk.

"Why you...!", Shining says, lunging at the grinning red colt.

Said colt sidestepping the attack and then take of, galloping away.

"Come back here!", Shining shouts, taking off after him.

I shake my head and continue walking calmly, following their shouts.

"Solus? Can I come in?"

Cady?

"Sure!", I answer.

The door opens and Cadance comes in.

Cadance is becoming quite the cutie, svelte and graceful. Not that I'm attracted to her. I'd rather get gelded than even think of her that way. Though her beauty is marred by the fact that she's frowning quite heavily at the moment.

"Why can't I go with you?", she asks firmly.

*sigh*

"I already told you, I need you to stay here so you can watch over Twily and continue to learn from Fancy."

"You're lying!", she says accusingly, pointing a hoof at me.

I lower her hoof, looking at her very seriously.

"I am not lying, Cadance."

"Fine! Omitting the truth, then, is that better?", she say sardonically.

"Ugh, it's nothing..."

"It's not nothing if you're hiding it!"

I look down, hanging my head.

"It's...it's just that..."

"That what?"

"I'm worried."

"Worried?", she asks, confused. "About what?"

"About...! about...about you being..."

"Being...? Oh! Oh. You really think...?", she asks in a soft voice.

"Not all of them, but some of them will try to take advantage of you. Fancy told me the presence of mares are frowned upon there for very good reasons."

"Why didn't you just tell me?"

"I didn't want you to think you were left behind just because you're a mare. I do really need you here at the Castle, but I would have preferred if you hadn't know about this."

She lifts my face with her hoof, and then boop me with a smile on her face.

"You silly pony, I know you don't think like that. You don't have to keep that kind of secrets, well, secret."

I smile sadly.

"I know."

"Now come on, we've got to get you ready!"

"My loyal subjects, it please Us to see you here, to celebrate this important moment in Our son's life..."

Stars damn it! Why is she always so boring? I mean, she always start her speeches with 'My loyal bootlicker'! Would it hurt to shake it up a bit?

"...and this is why the Consecration is so important! A toast, to our future Warmaster!"

"Hail Prince Solus!" "Hail our Warmaster!" "Hail his Serene Highness!"

A toast to your WHAT?! I fucking HATE war! What the fuckity fuck are you fucking going on about you fucking bitch?!

I feel Shining Armour patting my upper foreleg, clearly in sympathy for the fucked up declaration we've just heard.

"Well, that's bucked up", Shining says, once we are back to my suite.

"You don't say?", I reply.

"What's bucked up?", Cadance asks, with Mac giving us a questioning look beside her.

"The Empress just told the Court that Solus is going to be the Warmaster one day", Shining answers.

"Warmaster? You mean the pony in charge of all the Empire's military activity?", she asks.

"The very same."

"That is bucked up", she replies.

"Doesn't matter", I say with a wave of my hoof. "Let's just go to bed. Tomorrow is going to be one hell of a day."

They all nod and we proceed to do as I say.

I knock on the door, then wait for it to open.

Surprisingly, I had a splendid night of rest! Not. Ughh.

"Solus?"

"Good morning, Twily!", I say with a smile.

"What are you doing here?", she asks, excited.

"I'm here to say goodbye, like I promised."

Her expression become downcast and her ears fold back.

"Oh."

I hug her, petting her mane.

"Don't worry, I'll come back. Plus, I've got permission to come back for your Celebration of Contentment."

She looks up with wide, hopeful eyes.

"Really?"

"Really, really", I reply with a warm and patient smile.

She hugs me back, nuzzling my chest.

"You're the bestest fiance ever!", she declares cheerfully.

My smile become a twitchy, brittle thing, though fortunately Twilight isn't looking at my face. Stars, I hate politics!

I compose myself before speaking anew.

"Thank you, Twily. Be good, alright?"

"I will be!", she affirms with a vigorous shake of her head.

"Good. If you are, and I'll know if you aren't, I've got a gift waiting for you."

"A gift?! What is it? What is it?!", she asks frantically.

"Ah, ah, ah! I can't tell, it's a surprise!"

"Awwww, but I want to know now!"

"But the gift will be all the better if you wait for it, no?"

"I guess...", she says in a disbelieving tone.

I smile, letting go and standing up.

"Goodbye, Twilight."

I bow down, giving her a kiss on the forehead. Which is rather hard with a unicorn.

"Goodbye, Solus..."

I smile one last time before turning away, though I do see a white shape coming down the hall. I guess Twily won't feel bad for too long.

"Sire?", a guard says.

Where the hell did you come from?

"Yes?"

"Your mother wants to see you."

"You wanted to see me, Mother?"

She looks up from a parchment, smiling slightly.

"I did. Sit down, please."

I think I preferred her when she was a cold-hearted bitch. This nice, caring Celestia gives me goosebumps.

"I wanted to see you so I could say a private farewell before you leave."

Is that so? I could have done without seeing you again, frankly.

"Do make sure not to do anything stupid while you're there, and learn all you can so you can grow into a magnificent Prince of Equestria", she says with a smile.

What is it with ponies thinking I'll do something stupid? I set fire to that thing one time! One!

"I'll do my best, Mother."

"I expect nothing less from you. You are to become the Warmaster, after all."

"I am? I hadn't been told before."

"It wasn't necessary", she replies tersely.

Fuck you.

"And why am I to become it?", I ask.

"I have to stay here to administrate the Empire. You, on the other hand, can go forth and help our armies be victorious."

Oh, is that it? I get all the risks while you get to pontificate over everypony else?

"I understand, Mother."

"Good. You can go."

I stand up, starting to leave.

"Solus?"

Uh? What-

"I love you", she says, hugging me tightly.

Ohfuckfuckfuckfuckfuckfuck, lemmegolemmego, RIGHT THE FUCK NOW!

"I...I love you...too, Mother."

Oh god, I'm going to be sick, lemmego lemmego...

She let go, smiling, completely oblivious to my distress.

I smile back and I leave as quickly as I can before I faint.

"Solus?", someone asks, placing their hoof on my shoulder.

"DON'T TOUCH ME!!!", I shout, slapping the hoof away.

I hear doors opening, with the scrambling of hoof coming toward me.

"What the heck, Solus? That hurt!"

Can't breathe...

I fall on my side, hugging my hindlegs close to my chest.

"Solus? What's wrong? Solus!?"

Stop it! You're not a kid! You can control yourself! It's not because she ~~mothergrandmothersisterauntcousin~~ FUCKDAMMITSTOPTHINKINGABOUTITJUSTCONTROLFUCKDAMNITYOUREWORRYINGTHEMSTOPITIMAMONSTERNOSHEISIMHERSONIMLIKEHERNOIMNOTMYFAULTIKILLEDHIMHOWMANYNOIHADTOLIEDTOTHEMMYFAMILYITSNECESSARYIMLIKEHERIMAMONSTER-

"Solus, breathe!", someone says, trying to hug me.

"I SAID, DON'T TOUCH ME!", I scream, releasing an electric burst from my horn.

Someone screams, and then I feel my magic being forced back.

"Enough, Solus! Calm down!"

Shiny?

He tries to place his hooves on my withers but I scramble away, walking/stumbling as far from all of them as I can. I look around quickly around the room, and I see Mac looking over Cadance, whose fur is singed.

Did I do this? I didn't mean to I'M SORRY I DIDN'T I'M NOT A MONSTER I'MNOTLIKEHERIHURTMYSISTERIHURTHERIMANABOMINATION-

"Breathe, Solus! It's okay, just calm down!"

"IT'S NOT OKAY, I HURT HER, I HURT PROPER, I HURT MAC, I'M A MONSTER, JUST LIKE HER!"

"No you're not! Only someone who didn't feel guilt would be a monster!"

"SHUT UP! YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT ME! I'M-"

Shining's horn light up, and I feel sleepy, so sleepy...

NO! I can't sleep! I don't want to dream! I DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM AGAIN-

Shining Armour P.O.V.

I relax as soon as I see Solus fall asleep. I knew he was hiding his fears, but by heaven's grace, what the actual buck was that?

"Mac? How is she?", I ask the red colt.

"I'm fine, Shiny", Cadance says, trying to stand up, only doing so because Mac is there to support her. "Let's worry about Solus first. Do either of you know why he was so panicked?"

Mac shakes his head.

"I think...I saw a guard talk to him when I went to see Twilight, so maybe he talked with his mother?"

Cadance sighs, looking down.

"It's horrible how that actually makes sense as an explanation."

Mac snorts.

"Let's move him to his bed", I say. "We're lucky that the salon has a privacy spell, but I'd rather not leave it to chance."

I pick him up with my magic, Mac and Cady going ahead and opening the door to Solus' bedroom. Once inside I set him down, I turn to Cadance and Mac.

"We'll have to wake him up now. We're leaving soon, we can't let him sleep."

"I don't think that's a bad idea, considering he doesn't seem to be having good dreams", Mac says, pointing at the bed with his hoof.

I turn my head to look at Solus and see him thrashing and mumbling silently. I look back at them.

"I thought he had gotten his nightmares under control?"

Cadance shakes her head.

"He just got better at hiding them."

*sigh*

"Right. Give him his space, but be ready to stop him if he looks ready to run or something like that."

They both nod and I go to Solus bedside, preparing the counter-spell. I cast it, and Solus slowly starts waking up.

"Shiny?", he asks in a sedate whisper.

I place my hoof on his.

"I'm here, Solus, we're all here, it's okay", I tell him softly, trying to be as reassuring as I could.

"I'm sorry..."

Cadance move to my side, smiling.

"We know, Solus. We just want to help. Can you tell us what got you-"

"Nothing, I'm fine", he interrupts briskly.

"Solus-"

"I'm. Fine. Drop it."

We all look at each other. He's clearly lying, but then, he was always unwilling to "whine", feeling he didn't have the right to do so. Uff, Solus...

"We should get ready to leave. Cadance, stay still, I'm going to heal you..."

Author's Note

Sorry for the delay, I've been battling Patreon since the start of the week, since its payment methods are a bit opaque, especially for a non-U.S. citizen. Anyway, just a warning, the next two chapters are going to be held back as rewards for my patrons. Afterwards, updates will resume as usual. I'll try to write them as fast as I can as to not leave my non-patron readers waiting for too long. Expect a blog post when my page is finalized.

Onward to Hogwarts! Uh, I mean...

Shining steps in front of me, placing a hoof on my shoulder.

"Solus, are you sure that-"

"I. Am", I interrupt him, calmly removing his hoof. "Stop worrying about it."

He sighs, but remains silent. Good. We've got enough problem without having them fussing needlessly over me. We're currently boarding the carriages that will lead us to the IMS, and when I say us, I mean me, Mac, Shining, as well as all the other noblecolts who are guests at the Court. I don't need Shining embarrassing me in front of potential allies.

Speaking of them, they seem to be eyeing me with...awe? I guess they never really had the occasion to see me outside of some inane celebration. Or it's the fact that I probably look like shit. Both? Whatever.

"Prince Solus!", a mare's voice shout.

I look to the source of the voice, seeing Sunset Shimmer approaching, closely followed by Twilight, Cadance, and Fancy.

"Sunset?", I ask.

She gets right in my face, looking utterly furious.

"Did you really think you could leave without saying goodbye?"

"Sorry! I wanted to, it's just-"

"Just what?"

I went into a melodramatic fit of psychosis most unbecoming of the adult I really am, all because of my bitch of a mother? Can't say that, however...

"Something..., *sigh*, I'm sorry, I can't tell you..."

"What?", she says, looking rather incensed by my reply. "What do you mean you can't-"

"He's saying the truth", Shining cuts in. "I don't know why he would, but he really did want to say goodbye."

"No one asked you, Silky Shield!", Sunset hiss.

"Yeah you did, Dusky Bitch!", Shining snaps back.

"Why you impertinent worm!", she says, her horn beginning to glow.

"Come at me, you leech!", he replies in kind.

"Oy!", I shout. "Cut it out! Both of you!"

"But he/she started it!", they say in perfect synch, which lead them to stare at each other, clearly ready to resume the fight.

"No but! You're not little foals, for Heaven's sake! Especially you, Sunset! I abandoned the prospect of you getting along years ago, but you will act with the civility expected of the nobles houses you represent!"

They both hang their head in shame, muttering a halfhearted "sorry".

I shake my head. I know Sunset can be abrasive, but fuck damn it! Can't they get along? Or at the very least, not be at each others throat the moment they are in the presence of the other?

I turn to Cadance and Twilight.

"What are you two doing here?", I ask with a wan smile.

"We wanted to say goodbye!", Twily says, hugging my foreleg.

I flinch slightly at her touch, but I manage to remain calm.

"Didn't you already?", I ask in calm tone I was not feeling.

"Uh-uh, but we wanted to say it again before you left!", she says, smiling.

"That we did! You're our very best friend, after all!", Cadance adds.

Sunset makes a gagging sound, though I do find it all very sweet. I kneel down, nuzzling the top of Twilight's head, which make her giggle.

"Goodbye Twily. I promise I'll be back soon."

"You better!", she replies cheerfully.

I stand up, looking at Cadance.

"Do take care of her, please?"

She smiles, placing a a hoof on my wither.

"Don't worry, I will."

"Thank you", I say, smiling back, trying not to cringe from her touch. "Well then, goodbye, Cadance."

"Goodbye, Solus."

I step back, allowing Shiny and Mac to say their goodbyes. They really are adorable, all of them...

We embark soon enough, though it takes at least a solid twenty minutes before we depart, due to all the prissy foals making demands and all around being little shits. And I'm going to spend the next six years with them. Fuck my life. At least it'll allow me to spot who can be brought over to my side and who I need to get rid off, especially if they'll serve under me when I become the Warmaster.

Warmaster...I mean, sure, I hate war and it will bring me away from the capital, but I guess I could try and use the opportunity to subvert the Army, but considering the religious awe most Equestrian hold toward Celestia, that would be easier said than done. On top of that, due to the feudal system, few, if any, of these soldiers are career soldier, more loyal to their land and lord than to the Crown itself. As far as I know, the only professional armies in Equestria are the Imperial Paladins, which only number a single thousand, and the Cloudsdale Miltia, which despite it's name, still proudly carries on the martial tradition of Pegasopolis. Hopefully they're not too much like the Spartans, because if they are, Fluttershy...

Nah, she's going to be just fine, I'm sure of it. Maybe not in the best condition, but still. Though I probably should tell Fancy to find her and Dash too...

At any rate, this won't be easy, but what ever was in this shithole of a world? I look outside, seeing Twily and Cadance waving at us. Well, maybe not that much of a shithole...

"So, do you know what's it's gonna be like?", Mac asks me.

"Hmm, I asked Fancy about it, he said that it's pretty normal, all things considered."

Shining raises an eyebrow at me.

"Normal? What does that mean?"

"Oh, you know, rumour-mongering, melodramatic fits, broken hearts and last minute studying, standard adolescent behaviour, only it's nobles doing those things."

"Riiiight...", Mac drawls. "Completely normal."

Well, back on Earth it is. I think. I was kind of anti-social, back then. Kind of.

Whatever.

"Well, it's not anything we won't be able to deal with. Talking of which, I'll need you to tone down you aversion towards nobles."

"Uh? Why?"

"Well, like it or not, if we want to change things, we're going to need a power base, which can only be done by convincing powerful ponies to back me up when I try to usurp the throne."

"Hmmph, if you say so...", Mac replies sulkily.

I roll my eyes at his foalishness, but don't comment further. Instead, I turn to Shining Armour.

"What about you? Got any question?"

"I don't think so. Mind, I don't think I'll find it easy, if Sunset is any indication..."

Oy.

"...but still, I'll try my best to charm them, Solus."

I rub my temple, slightly annoyed at him deliberately choosing that example in particular.

"Right, I know you'll do your best, and that's all I can ask for."

Shiny smiles, though there's a mischievous glint in his eyes. Don't think I don't know what you did there, espèce de p'tit verrat.

There's a knock on the wall behind me, where the driver of the carriage is.

"We'll be arriving soon, Your Serene Highness!"

Really? This soon? Well, admittedly the IMS is within the borders of the imperial demesne so the prissy noblecolts are safe and pampered, but still. I turn my head back to look at Shining and Mac.

"Well then, showtime."

Uh, so that's what the School looks like. It's essentially Versailles, on a lesser scale. The size, I mean. The baroque architecture is quite probably even more lavish and pointlessly detailed. I guess magic allows you to indulge in all your gaudy, ostentatious desires. Maybe. Gold and gems seemed awfully common in the show...

Anyway, it's time to disembark. We get out easily enough, though the same can't be said of the other students. Whether they were forced to or were too vain, most of them would rival Rarity in how much stuff they brought, with their servants struggling under the burden of their luggage. Can't really blame them though. They're aristocrats, they need to make a good impression. I'm just lucky enough that my combo of wings and horn allows me to pass on all the futility of fashion. Mostly. Even Celestia had the pleasure of indulging in the motherly desire to pamper and doll-up their child.

Brrr...

Repression-worthy memories aside, the students slowly, but surely, assemble in front of the main gate, where a pony, the headmaster, no doubt, is waiting for us. He's... Dumbledore-like? He has a beard and purple robes, at the very least. His coat is yellowed white, or cream, I guess. His hair is white from old age. A wizard classic, really. I wonder if the similarity is only skin-deep...

Well, Fancy told me he doesn't really like him, so that's a point against him right off the bat.

He clears his throat, illuminating his horn, and then beginning to speak.

"Hello, children", he says in a magically amplified voice, "I am Headmaster Coronete d'Outremer, and I am honoured to serve as a guide to a new generation of noble Unicorns, who will surely go on to do great things, thanks to what they have learned here."

Well, at least he sounds sincere. Strangely accent-less for somepony with that kind of name. I mean, 'Oversea crownlet'? What kind of name is that?

Says the pony/human named Samuel, 'Name of God'. Hmm... I probably should shut up now, considering I've missed quite a bit.

"...I am certain that you are eager to see where you'll spend the rest of the year living, so I won't keep you much longer. The last thing I have to say is that there will be a feast tonight, where the Housing Ceremony will take place. I hope to see you there, my dear students! Have a good, jolly day!"

Oh, yeah, Housing. In other words, the concept that made Hogwarts into a fertile breeding ground for bullying and social division. Lovely.

"Well then, let's go find our room, yes?", I say.

Mac grunts.

"I hope it isn't too far up, or I'll have you carry your luggage."

"Sorry, Mac. At least you don't have to carry my entire wardrobe around."

He snorts.

"Like I'd do that."

"Hmm, fair enough."

Author's Note

Damn, has it really been more than a month since the last update? I'm so sorry, I just have a very fickle creative drive. But I'm back now! I'm even working on a side-story for Glory of the Sun, a what-if, as it were. If you want to see the first chapter, go on my Patreon! Otherwise, I'll see you later. Hopefully not that much later, either.