Love and Slavery Remake.

Chapters

Chapter 1. Apple Family Reunion.
Chapter 2. Memories.
Chapter 3. Love ones. Old friends. King?
Chapter 4. Ruins. Teddy Bear. Orders
Chapter 5. Dreams, Dances, Death.
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8. Connections.
Chapter 9. Feelings, Letters, Safe.

Chapter 1. Apple Family Reunion.

Two thousand years ago humans and ponies lived in peace. The land of Avalon was pure and rich with life, humans built a great kingdom within the mountains of Othrys. They claimed the Goddess Lucy watched over the lands and protected the kingdom of Avalon. It is said this mountain was the birthplace of humans and where humans were given magic.

Humans lived happily within their kingdom when one day the ponies of Equestria declared war.

With the war, sides were taken, the griffins allied with the humans and aided them while the dragons allied with the ponies. The hippogriffs remained neutral in the war and keeping to themselves.

After three long years of war the griffin army changed alliances and betrayed the humans. With one final push from the new alliance the humans were defeated within a month and their stronghold was brought to its knees.

With the defeat of the humans they were forced into slavery. Those who had magical powers were forced to wear magical devices to suppress their magic powers.

Avalon was left in ruins as the centuries went by.

Two thousand years later with King Solar Heart ruling over Equestria with an iron fist over the humans. King Solar Heart's daughters, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were being taught in the ways of ruling Equestria. Celestia and Luna were not happy with how their world was being ran. Humans being forced to work to death to build their roads and houses and plow their fields and pick their crops. To them it wasn’t right, their studies they hated.

However Celestia was given a chance to teach a student named Twilight Sparkle in magical studies. This allowed Celestia to try and have a student understand human ways.

Luna took another course. She formed the night children which helped the humans be freed from their chains.

Yet our story shall focus on a young man named Matthew, born into slavery and forced to wear a magical collar around his wrist. His story will connect with a young mare whose farm will be one that will start the true freedom of humans.

This is where our story begins ladies and gentlemen.

Chapter 1. Apple Family Reunion.

An elderly pony walked through the busy streets of Canterlot. The ponies around her were being escorted by their human slaves carrying their things around.

However this elderly mare walked alone in the streets. She carried her own bags and felt no need to have others carry her things.

She found herself standing at her door, she opened the door to her home and saw the young man Matthew standing by the living room doorway “Matthew, is everything alright?” She asked shutting the door and walking over to Matthew.

“Ah see ya finally home Sawdust.” An elderly mare said walking from the living room and towards the two.

“Granny Smith, what brings you to my neck of the woods?” Sawdust asked hugging her old friend.

“Ah came to personally invite ya to the Apple Family Reunion.” Granny Smith said “Ah always sends ya an invite but ya never show up.”

“I always send my reasons Granny.” Sawdust said.

“Well this time ya comin’, Ah have everythin’ set for ya ta come join us.” Granny said “Matthew here has already packed everythin’ you both will need.”

Sawdust looked at Matthew who looked away “It’s alright Matthew, Granny is a stubborn old girl, she would have done it herself if you didn’t do it.” Sawdust said chuckling “I take it you already have train tickets ready?”

“Ah do indeed.” Granny Smith said with a smile.

“Alright, I guess I can’t fight you on this.” Sawdust said chuckling.

After getting a taxi wagon and loading up their luggage they left for the train station.

They arrived at the train station and made their way inside.

“Alright Matthew, I know the train car for humans is nasty but it’s only for four hours, just remember what I told you about finding a happy place and time will fly and we will be there soon enough.” Sawdust said.

Matthew gave her a smile and went with the other humans to be put into the train car.

“Never thought you would buy a slave Sawdust.” Granny Smith said.

“My kids bought him to keep an eye on me and to help me out, I fought them on it till I meet him.” Sawdust said looking at Granny Smith “I sensed such pain in this boy’s life, I know there are many out there just like him, yet, his light in his heart was telling me he needed a break from this cruel world.”

“Ya always had a good heart Sawdust, ah can’t be mad at you for that.” Granny Smith said as they boarded the train.

The two mares were catching up on lost times “So, how has the Apple Family been?” Sawdust asked.

“The Apple family have been doin’ great, however, Braeburn has started putting his hands into the slave business, most of the family is up in arms about it while others just don’t care.” Granny Smith said a bit mad.

“There’s been a big call for slaves these days, some big project going on in the west.” Sawdust said “I’ve seen humans who are owned by ponies in Canterlot being bought by business ponies for something big.”

“I’ve been seeing the same thing in Ponyville.” Granny said “This Matthew fella, how long have ya had him?”

“About a year now.” Sawdust said “I’ve been teaching him how to read and write.”

“Ya know you could go ta jail for that.” Granny said.

“Would rather rot in a jail cell then deny him his right to read and write.” Sawdust said.

“You claim Ah’m stubborn.” Granny chuckled “My granddaughter Applejack isn’t gonna be happy that Ah’m bringin’ ya back with a slave as well, but Ah think she can get over it.” Granny said.

“Your granddaughter has every right to be angry, what we do to these poor humans isn’t right.”

“Ah know dear, it’s up to the children of today to make a change, for better or for worse.”

Applejack sat on a bench with her good friend Rainbow Dash. The two were waiting for Granny Smith to return with her mystery guest.

“I still don’t see why we have to wait for her, she can get back to the farm without us.” Dash said annoyed.

“Ah ain’t gonna let them walk back to the farm with all their luggage.” Applejack said “Ah also wanna see who this pony is.”

“Whatever, I’m gonna go get something to eat.” Dash said getting up “Want anything?”

“Ah’m good Dashie.” Applejack said “Just be back before they get here.”

“Will do!” With that Dash flew off into the sky to go get some food.

Applejack relaxed on the bench as she waited for the train. She wondered who this mystery guest of Granny was, Granny had a lot of secrets she hadn’t told her family and this was one secret they would soon find out about. Every single family reunion she would mail off an invite to her secret friend. For years she tried to find out who this friend was and now she shall see who it is once and for all.

Applejack pulled her hat down in front of her eyes and she decided to take a nap.

Matthew looked at his fellow humans in the train car. Each one wearing torn clothes and looked as if they had been working in the mines under Canterlot.

He felt the train starting to slow down “I guess we are here.” Matthew thought.

The train came to a halt and the train cars door opened up and saw three pony guards “Alright, everyone off the cart now!” A stallion yelled.

The humans got to their feets and made their way to the guards as they were being unloaded from the car.

Matthew remained calmed as he followed the other humans off the train “Check their wrists for their owners I.D’s.” A stallion said as the guards check the humans wrists.

Matthew felt his arm get yanked up by a guard pony as they checked the band on his wrist “Owner is Sawdust sir.”

“Put him in the waiting area so she can get him.” One guard pony said.

Matthew was taken from the rest of the ponies and put inside the building. He stood with two other humans, one was a small female and the other was a very tall man.

Matthew notices the many ponies walking around the train station. He notices a mare sound asleep on a bench with her hat covering her face. That's when he notices Sawdust and Granny Smith walking into the station “Matthew, I hope they weren’t too rough with you.” Sawdust said walking over to Matthew.

“I’m fine Sawdust.” Matthew said as he followed Sawdust.

“Alright, it’s just about a half hour walk ta the farm.” Granny Smith said “Ah can carry some of the luggage.”

“I can carry everything Ma’am.” Matthew said already getting the luggage.

“Ya a guest stayin’ at mah farm, ya can take it easy.” Granny Smith said.

“I’m afraid Granny, Matthew won’t budge on that one.” Sawdust said sighing “This is why I keep him at home when I go out shopping.”

“If ya get tired let me know.” Granny said as they walked out of the train station.

Matthew followed the two mares out of the train station and through Ponyville.

A stallion with jet black hair with light blue eyes was sitting in a chair with a cigar in his hands.

“Now Mr Braeburn, this town you speak of in the south, why should I invest in such a place?” The stallion asked.

“This town, Appleloosa will be the greatest place ta grow apples and ta have slaves work.” Braeburn said “Ah’ve already got slaves ready ta work on the train line to this town.”

“Again, why should I invest?” The Stallion said again.

“Ah’ve got three ponies ready ta invest, they want ya ta back the funding as well.” He said “If ya invest Ah can double the money.”

The stallion looked at Braeburn and chuckled “I’m one of the richest ponies in all of Equestria, I do not need my money doubled when I’m already making billions on my railroad.”

“Sir Ah can only offer you stocks to my company.” Braeburn said.

The stallion stood and made his way over to the map of Equestria “These lands haven’t been touched for over a hundred years.” The stallion said “I will fund this town Mr Braeburn, but I want regular reports, my railroad will help in anyway they can, but I will be putting my best stallion on this job, he's the toughes son of a bitch I’ve ever met.”

“You're not talkin’ about former general Iron Hoofs?”

“The very stallion, he has been getting the job done faster than anypony I’ve hired.” The stallion walked back over towards Braeburn “I can have everything ready for you in a week or two.”

“Why a week sir?” Braeburn asked.

“Right now most of my team is in the north finishing up the railroad to the Crystal Empire, ever since it’s returned my railroad bought the rights to get our rails up there.” The stallion took a seat in his chair “If this is an issue I can back out right now.”

“N-No! It’s fine, Ah have a family reunion Ah have ta go to, that should take me about a week or two.” Braeburn said.

“Leave my secretary your address so I can send you the paperwork.” The stallion said.

“Thank you Filthy Rich, I promise you, this town will be the first of many.” Braeburn said leaving Filthy Rich alone in his room.

“Once I’ve reached the south, I will then focus my sights on those mountains and break through it and see what is on the other side.” Filthy Rich said smiling.

Matthew was in awe as they reached Sweet Apple Acres. The many fields of apple trees, each one of them already filled with apples. The first thing that came to Matthew’s mind was painting this farm and the land around it.

“Since ya the first two ta arrive, Matthew can have his own room on the second floor of the guest house.” Granny Smith said “Let’s get ya both setup and we can get dinner goin’.”

Matthew followed Granny Smith towards their guest house.

Dash landed just outside of the train station. She notices the train pulling out of the station causing her to quickly rush inside. She saw Applejack sound asleep on the bench she left her on and quickly rushed over to her “Applejack! You fell asleep!”

Applejack’s eyes shot open and she sat up “D-Did we miss them?”

“I think they might have headed home.” Dash said.

“Dang it!” Applejack got onto her feet “Let’s get to the horses and head back home.”

“I think I’m gonna head home, I’ll catch you later Aj.” Dash said leaving Applejack.

Applejack made her way out of the train station and towards the wagon.

Sawdust saw Matthew standing near the bed in his room “Did you bring your paint kit?” Sawdust asked stepping into his room.

“No, I only packed my sketchbook.” Matthew said “I didn’t know if I would be able to paint here.”

“You could have brought it, the Apple family is one of kindness and wouldn’t deny you something you like.” She said “If you want to get a paint set I’ll ask Granny if there is any place that sells them.”

“I’m fine with my sketchbook Sawdust.” Matthew said looking at her “It’s all I really need for now.”

“If you change your mind just let me know.” Sawdust said “I’m gonna go visit Granny for a bit, you can explore the farm if you want.”

“I think I’ll just remain in my room for now Sawdust.” He said looking back at his sketchbook “I wanted to draw a few things.”

“Alright.” Sawdust closed Matthew door leaving him alone in his room.

Sawdust looked at the room “Hopefully he can relax.” She thought as she walked down the stairs and headed outside.

She notices Granny Smith outside talking with a mare with long blond hair and emerald green eyes, that’s when she saw Granny start laughing as the mare glared at her “Ah got tired of waitin’ thought it would be fine ta take a nap!” She huffed.

“Ah wish Ah saw ya, then poor Matthew wouldn’t have ta carry their luggage.” Granny said calming down from her laughter “But ya fell asleep so no harm done.”

“Who’s Matthew?” The mare asked.

“Matthew is my slave.” The two looked at Sawdust who came walking up “He carried our things here so we wouldn’t have too. He’s stubborn when it comes to that.” Sawdust said chuckling.

The mare shot her eyes at Granny “Ya let her bring a human slave to our farm!?” She nearly yelled.

“I wouldn’t leave him alone with my children.” Sawdust said “My kids wouldn’t treat him with the respect he rightfully deserves.” The mare looked back at Sawdust “I know how your family looks down at people who own slaves, Matthew isn’t a slave to me, he is a person with rights and I have been giving him everything he needs.”

“Applejack, why don’t ya find your sister and tell her to get ready for dinner. More of our family should be showin’ up soon.” Granny said looking at her.

“Alright.” Applejack said walking away leaving the two old mares alone.

“Ah’m sorry about her.” Granny said.

“It’s fine, I was expecting she would be a bit harsh.” Sawdust said watching Applejack walk away.

“How’s Matthew doin’?” Granny asked.

“He’s up in his room sketching, I think he saw something on the way here he wanted to draw.” Sawdust said chuckling.

“He’s an artist?” Granny asked surprised.

“Natural skills, he’s really good.” Sawdust said “I saw him doodling when I first got him on a napkin and that’s when I bought him everything he needs.”

“Well Ah’m glad he’s doin’ somethin’ ta pass the time.” Granny said “If Ah remember right, ya make the best spaghetti.”

Sawdust chuckled “If that’s your way of asking me to make it, next time just ask.”

Matthew placed his sketchbook down on the bed as she stretched “Maybe I should see if Sawdust need anything.” He thought as he looked at the sun slowly starting to set. He decided to head out and check on Sawdust.

He walked out of the guest house and notices a group of ponies walking towards the farm.

“Oh a human!” A stallion with jet black hair with light blue eyes said walking up to him and handing him bags “Why don’t you take these to the guest house and be quick about it, we will have more waiting for you.” The stallion said.

Matthew was about to do as he was told when Applejack came walking up “Ya can put those down.” She said looking at the stallion “This human is a guest here on my farm, ya won’t treat him like a slave Braeburn, he’ll be free ta do whatever he feels like doin’.” She said.

“So you bought a human just so you can let him roam free on this farm? He could be doing other things to better our country.” Braeburn said looking at Matthew with a grin that made Matthew want to run.

“Ah didn’t buy him, he belongs to a guest stayin’ here.” Applejack said looking back at Matthew who was still holding the bags that Braeburn handed him. Applejack took the bags from Matthew and handed them back to Braeburn “Ah already have a room setup for ya in the barn tanight.”

“What about my room in the guest house?” Braeburn asked shocked.

“With our two new guest stayin’ they needed two rooms, sadly we had to give away your room.” Applejack said grinning.

Braeburn glared at his cousin and walked away while the other family members were smiling.

“I-I d-don’t mind carrying his things.” Matthew said looking at Applejack.

“You are a guest on my farm, ya don’t have to be treated like a slave here.” Applejack said with a smile “If ya lookin’ for Sawdust she’s in the house with Granny cookin’.”

“T-Thank.” Matthew said walking away.

Braeburn slammed his things into the empty horse stall and slammed his fist onto the side of the stall “I bet that human is staying in the room I should be staying it!” Braeburn glared at the wall. Then a wicked idea formed in his mind and he smiled.

To Be Continued.

Author's Note

I hope you all enjoy the first chapter!

Chapter 2. Memories.

Chapter 2.

Applejack watched as Matthew helped Granny and Sawdust cook. Applejack's mind wandered to his right eye, it was a dark black with a red line around it, while his other eye was a dark brown. She’s never seen one with a eye like that. She then notices the bracelet on his right wrist. She knew what the bracelet was meant to keep humans who have magic powers from turning on their masters.

There came a knock at the door and Applejack made her way to the door, she opened the door and saw her good friend Twilight Sparkle “Hey Twi, what brings ya by?”

“I brought that book you requested.” Twilight said pulling out a book from her bag “Read it tonight, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.”

Applejack took the book “I shall read it tonight, thank you Twilight.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow Applejack, have a good night.” Twilight said leaving.

Matthew notices how the two were acting and found it strange. He looked back at Sawdust and Granny when he heard a new voice “Granny! Ah can’t find my history book for scho-” Matthew looked to see a filly with long red hair and bright colorful eyes. Her eyes were stuck on him and he found it weird.

“Apple Bloom, Ah put ya book in with the other school books ya leave around the house.” Granny said walking up to her “Ah want ya ta meet my guests, this is Sawdust and Matthew.”

Apple Bloom leaned forwards and whispered to Granny Smith “Why is there a human here?”

“He’s a guest Apple Bloom, he’s free here.” Granny said “If ya want talk with him, Sawdust says he’s a shy one so he might open up to ya.”

Apple Bloom looked at Matthew then back to Granny Smith “Alright, but first ah need ta hurry and get my school work done.”

“Run along and get it done, dinner should be done soon.” Granny said walking back to her friend Sawdust.

Applejack took a seat next to Matthew “So, what do ya like ta do?” Applejack asked.

Matthew looked at Sawdust “It’s alright Matt, you can tell her about your art.”

“Ya draw?” Applejack asked looking at him.

“Y-Yeah.” Matthew said stuttering.

“He won’t brag about it but he’s got a gift, can pretty much draw anything from memory.” Sawdust said with a smile “I think he would outdo Celestia herself.”

“I-I wouldn’t go that far.” Matthew said “S-She has much more talent then me.”

“You’ll have ta show me your work sometime.” Applejack said.

Dinner was soon served and everyone sat down to eat.

Dinner was a bit awkward as Braeburn just kept glaring at Applejack. Matthew felt awkward just sitting at a table full of ponies.

Once dinner was done most ponies spent their time chatting while others called it a night and headed off to bed. Sawdust made her way back to the guest house for the night and Matthew followed.

Braeburn however just stayed near the barn watching Applejack finish some late night work.

Big Mac however was watching Braeburn, he felt something wasn’t right about his cousin. After his time in the big city Braeburn changed from the loving guy he was to this slave owner making most of the family angry.

Matthew took a seat down on his bed and looked at his sketchbook and flipped through the few pages and stopped on the mare with her hat on her face as she napped “That’s why she looked familiar.” Matthew thought as he realized he drew Applejack sound asleep at the train station.

He tore the page from his sketchbook and made his way out of his room and made his way down the stairs and outside. He saw Applejack close by near a pen with some horses as she placed some hay bales inside the fence to feed the horses.

“Oh Matthew! What brings ya outside this late?” Applejack asked.

“I-I didn’t know this was you at the time but I drew you back at the train station earlier today.” Matthew said “I-I hope you like it.”

Applejack looked at the picture and was amazed at how detailed it was. She could even see the straw that was in her hat at the time “This is amazing Matthew, Sawdust wasn’t lying when she said you are talented with a pen.”

“T-Thank you.” Matthew said with a smile “Do you need some help?” He asked.

“No, I’ve got this Matthew. Thank you anyways.” Applejack said placing the picture neatly in her pocket “Why don’t you get some rest, the rest of the family will be here tomorrow and there will be a lot going on.”

“If you say so, I don’t mind helping out, used to always do farm work before being sold to Sawdust.” He said looking at the horses and giving them a smile.

“So you used to work on a farm?” She asked as Matthew pet one of the horses.

“Yeah, worked on a few before ending up with Sawdust. I loved working with the animals, they were soft and they always followed me wherever I went.” He chuckled at the memory of the goats and chickens following him.

“Were your former owners nice to you too?” She asked keeping her eyes on Matthew. However the moment she asked the question she could see pain in his eyes.

“T-They were something else.” Was all he said “I-If you don’t need anything I’ll get some sleep.”

“I-I’m sorry if my questions brought up some bad things in ya past. Ah didn’t mean that.” She said feeling bad.

“I-It’s fine, no worries.” He said trying to give her a light smile “Goodnight Miss Applejack.”

“Goodnight Matthew.”

Matthew made his way back to the guest house and back to his room. He looked out his window into the night sky and saw the moon shining bright into his room and he couldn’t help but smile as he got ready for bed.

Applejack snuck away from her farm as she made her way deep into the Everfree Forest. She stayed on the path and kept quiet as she made her way towards ruins of an old castle. She made her way inside the ruins and found a room full of old books.

“You finally made it! ” Twilight said stepping out from behind a bookshelf.

“Sorry it took me so long, had to do some last minute chores.” Applejack said taking a seat at the table “Where’s everyone else?”

“They should be here shortly.” Twilight said taking a seat “So how’s the family reunion going?”

“Well Ah got to meet Granny Smith’s friend finally.” Applejack said “And she brought a human slave here.”

“She brought a human to your farm? Do we need to sneak him out?” Twilight asked.

“From what I can tell he’s in good hands, she lets him draw from what I’ve seen.” Applejack said pulling out the drawing Matthew made.

Twilight looked at the picture and was amazed “Wow, he’s talented. He drew this?”

“Sawdust claims he had no training.” Applejack said.

“Did you say Sawdust!?” Twilight quickly jumped over towards Applejack making Applejack nearly fall backwards in her chair.

“Y-Yeah.” Applejack said puzzled.

“The Sawdust is staying with you! And she has a human!? There are so many questions!” Twilight was in Twilight mode rambling on about how could Sawdust own a human.

“Why are ya gettin’ so worked up?”

“Sawdust was a former undefeated chess master! She also has a record for breaking humans out of a train car and declaring war on the king.” Twilight said “Why she owns a human is something that doesn’t add up.”

“Granny says her kids bought him for her. That’s really all granny would tell me.”

Movement interrupted the two talking as two hooded figures walked into the room “I don’t understand why we need to wear these stupid robes when coming here.”

“I like wearing these robes Dashie! I feel super secret when wearing them!” One of the hooded figures said bouncing around.

“We don’t need anyone knowing what we are doing.” A hooded figure said walking out from behind a wall and stepping forwards “The elements of harmony must be kept neutral.” The hooded figure removed their hood revealing a young woman with brilliant amaranth hair with light apple green stripes vivid crimson with brilliant yellow stripes in her hair. She let out a smile as she took a seat “Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Applejack, I’m so glad you three could make it.”

“Where are Rarity and Fluttershy?” Dash asked.

“Rarity and Fluttershy are taking a trip to Manehattan to help Sunset’s people out.” Twilight said “Which only leaves us.”

“Luna gave me a mission however I cannot accept it right now, I have to make a trip to Saddle Arabia to speak with our allies there. So this mission I must pass on to you four, to the east is the Smokey Mountains, their is where humans once ruled. I need you four to go there and find their history.”

“If I remember right King Flare burned and smashed any written text made by the humans.” Twilight said.

“True however there was a vault that the king could never enter and so it was sealed off. If you four can figure out how to get inside we can get their lost knowledge.” Sunset spoke.

“I’m in!” Pinkie Pie said with a smile.

“I can’t go, I’ve got wonderbolt training all this week.” Dash said.

“Ah can’t go.” Applejack said “My family reunion is goin’ on and Ah gotta take care of everything.”

“Can’t Big Mac handle everything?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“No, he’ll goof off with Braeburn, whenever those two are left alone they are always getting into trouble.” Applejack sighed.

“With Dash and Applejack not being able to go I can spare two of my own to take their place.” Sunset said.

“Is that it?” Applejack asked.

“Since you're staying Applejack and Dash, could you take care of the library while I’m gone?” Twilight asked.

“Who even goes to the library anymore?” Rainbow Dash said crossing her arms.

“Ah still go.” Applejack said “Ah can keep an eye on the place while ya gone Twi.”

“Thanks Aj.” Twilight said.

“Well if that is it I’m off.” Dash said getting up “I have to be up bright and early for training.”

“Goodnight Dash.” The group said as she left.

“I’m gonna go pack! I’m so excited!” Pinkie said bouncing out of the castle.

“Before you go Applejack I couldn’t help over hear you talking about Sawdust and her owning a human.” Sunset said “Is he happy?”

“He seems to be happy, ah trust Granny on her friend’s choice.” Applejack said “He did draw me this.” She pulled out the piece of paper that Matthew had given her and handed it to Sunset.

Sunset looked at it with awe. The human’s she had in her care had many talents yet this human living with Sawdust had skills that only ponies had in the ways of art “He’s got talent.” He looked at Applejack “Keep an eye on him while he’s on your farm, if he is unhappy report it to us and we’ll get him out. However I have a feeling we won’t but just to be safe follow the protocol.”

“Ah will.” Applejack said as Sunset handed her back the picture and she left Twilight and Sunset alone.

“I better get going, gonna need to tell Spike we’re going on a trip!” Twilight was excited about her trip. Getting to see and learn more about what humans made excited her.

Celestia walked through the castle as she was getting ready to raised the sun and start the day. Every morning she walked these halls, each day she watched the human slaves working day after day without pay. It sickened her to see these humans used as tools.

She stopped in front of a wooden door and slowly opened the door to see a woman with long blue hair with stars in her hair “Mother? How are you feeling?”

“Hello sweetie.” She looked towards Celestia and smiled “I’m feeling fine sweetie, It’s just a cold I have.”

“I know I just wanna make sure you're alright.” Celestia said walking up to her mother and giving her a hug.

“I know sweetie, you have a good heart like me, you and Luna both spoil me too much.” She said chuckling.

Celestia chuckled “Ready to see the sun rise?”

“I am indeed ready to see the sun rise.”

Celestia’s horn began to glow and her eyes began to glow yellow as the sun slowly made its way up and like that the sun was up for a new day.

“Every time I see you raise the sun just shows me how strong you’ve become.”

“I’m not as strong as I want to be.” Celestia said sighing.

“You are much stronger than your father.” She said placing her hand on Celestia’s shoulders “You and Luna have become so much stronger then we were at your age.”

“You're still stronger than me and Luna, mother.”

“You are stronger than you think.” She said giving her daughter a hug “You will make a great Queen.”

“Not if father picks the wrong husband for me.” Celestia said sighing “Then I’ll just be held against my will.”

“Your father hasn’t found the right guy he wants, that is good news for you, he only has till the end of the year before he has to give you the throne.” She said.

A bell rung out making Celestia sigh “I gotta go mom, I’ll be back later for lunch.”

“Take your time dear, I’m not going anywhere.” She said with a smile as Celestia left leaving her alone.

She walked over towards her window and looked out at the humans in the garden doing their work “Your true king was taken from you, but maybe one day your king will return and free you all.” A tear ran down her cheek as she heard a baby crying.

Matthew yawned as she got up as the sun was starting to rise. He felt the sun’s rays and felt warm. With a quick shower and changing his clothes he made his way down the stairs and started making breakfast.

He pulled out some veggies and started chopping them up and then got a bowl and cracked some eggs and whipped them. Adding the veggies with the eggs he made sure the pan he had out was nice and heated up and poured the eggs onto the pan. The pan sizzled as the liquid hit the pan and started cooking the eggs and veggies.

“Cooking breakfast I see.” Sawdust said walking down the stairs slowly “Is that your famous omelets?”

“It is indeed with a bowl of oatmeal with a little honey in it for you.” Matthew said with a smile as he cooked.

There came a knock at the door “I’ll get it Matt, you keep cooking.” Sawdust said getting up and making her way towards the front door.
“Good morning Miss Sawdust! We haven’t fully met, my name is Braeburn and I have an off-” His words were cut off as the door shut in his face “That is just rude.” Braeburn said glaring at the door.

“Is everything alright Sawdust?” Matthew asked as he got plates ready.

“Everything is fine Matt, just an idiot knocking.” She said chuckling as she took a seat.

The door opened up making Sawdust angry “Listen I’m not one to just walk into a home but to talk with you face to face Sawdust, I want to make an offer on your human.”

“He ain’t for sale.” Sawdust said “Now if you could leave, we are trying to enjoy our breakfast.” She said annoyed.

“I won’t take much of your time Sawdust, you see I’m heading west on a big project and could use Matthew here by my side.” Braeburn said stepping forwards “I will pay whatever price you want.”

Sawdust placed her coffee down and looked at Matthew “Matt, what’s a good price?”

Matthew blinked and wondered what she meant then he remembered what she told him “I-I think all the money in the world will do.”

Braeburn blinked “W-What?”

“You heard him Braeburn, if you want him it will cost you all the money in the world.” Sawdust said “I doubt you have all the money in the world to buy him so he’ll be staying with me.”

“Come on there has to be a reasonable price for him.” Braeburn said.

“Like I said Mr Braeburn, he ain’t for sale.” Sawdust took a sip of her coffee “Now, please leave before I make you leave young man.”

“Now Braeburn Ah hope you aren’t bothering our guests now.” The three looked at the doorway to see Applejack standing in the doorway.

“I was just leaving cousin.” Braeburn said walking past her and outside.

“Sorry about him, hope he didn’t make you guys uncomfortable.” Applejacked asked walking fully in.

“It’s fine Applejack, just make sure he knows Matt here ain’t for sale.” Sawdust said.

“W-Would you like to join us for breakfast?” Matthew asked “It’s no bother to make another omelette and there is enough oatmeal.”

“Alright.” Applejack said taking a seat.

“Matt here is famous for his omelets.” Sawdust said with a smile.

“They aren’t that great Sawdust.” Matthew said smiling.

Applejack notices how his smile was real, she’s seen many humans give fake smiles and knew they were hurting yet Matthew’s was real.

“So what’s going on today?” Sawdust asked looking at Applejack.

“Gonna be settin’ up for the Apple fair tonight.” Applejack said.

“I-If you need any help I’m more than willing to help.” Matthew said placing a plate with omelettes in front of her.

“Ya don’t have ta worry Matt about helpin’, ya a guest here.” Applejack said as she took a bite of her omelette and her eyes widen.

“Told you he made the best omelettes.” Sawdust said grinning.

“Ya got talent Matt, ya can draw and cook, anythin’ else Ah should know?” Applejack said chuckling.

“M-My time on the farm with my old master I was taught how to fix and maintain things .” Matthew said as he took a seat to eat his meal.

“How many farms have you lived on?” Applejack asked.

“F-Four.” He said.

“Maybe you can help us out, I’ll pay you for ya help.” Applejack said.

“I-I couldn’t take your money.” Matthew said “B-But I’ll help with whatever you need.” He said giving her a smile which she felt was odd.

“Now Matt, you can accept payment, nothing wrong with saving your own money up for something you want.” Sawdust said “I know you’ve been keeping an eye on that art kit.”

“I’m happy with what I have Sawdust.” He said “W-We are staying in their home and it’s only right to help out.”

Sawdust sighed only to have Applejack speak up “You can still help us out but I’m gonna give you payment for your help, as you said, it’s only right.” She said making Matthew rub the back of his neck as he tried to think it over.

“A-Alright.” Matthew said agreeing with Applejack.

Once their meals were done Matthew quickly washed up the dishes and made sure things were tidied up before he left the house. The two walked outside and towards the barn, more of Applejack’s family showed up as Applejack gave everyone tasks they were going to be doing. Matt would be working with Applejack on going to build vender stalls to allow those wanting to sell baked goods and set up games.

It was around noon Applejack and Matthew decided to grab something to eat and get out of the heat. Granny Smith already had some lunch for the hungry group ready with the help of Apple Bloom. Applejack and Matthew found a spot near the trees where all the shade was.

The two talked about random things as they ate till a whipping sound rung out causing Matthew to jump to his feet so fast he knocked over his food off his lap causing Applejack to look at him in utter shock “A-Are ya alright?”

Again the whip crack kept Matthew from speaking and that’s when Applejack notices fear in his eyes. She quickly looked to see Big Mac goofing around with a whip and using it to knock over bottles “Big Mac! Stop what you're doing!” Applejack said as she quickly got to her feet and looked at Matthew who seemed to be frozen in time.

Big Mac looked at the person yelling at him and he notices Matthew frozen in place and Applejack trying to snap him out of his trance “What’s wrong with him?” Big Mac asked walking up to the two.

“A-Ah don’t know, ya cracked the whip and he’s frozen like this.” Applejack said getting worried “Go get Sawdust!”

Big Mac rushed to the guest house and grabbed Sawdust. Within moments Sawdust was by Matthew’s side “What happened?” She asked.

“Big Mac was crackin’ his whip and he just froze up.” Applejack said.

“I-I don’t know why he’s tensed like this.” Sawdust said worried.

Within Matthew’s mind.

Matthew pushed a small girl with blond hair out of the way as the whip cracked across his face cutting across his right eye causing him to fall to the ground as an angry pony came walking up to him and smacking him across the face and then tossing him to the side and cracking his whip on his back. Then another memory flashed of him a bit older standing chained to the wall with his face placed to the wall as he was being whipped. Another memory flashed to Matthew out in the rain as a whip cracked and dug deep into his back as rum was being poured onto his back causing more pain. More and more moments of his life with a whip was flashed before his eyes as he slowly broke out of his trance and notices a worried Sawdust and Applejack trying to snap him out of his trance “W-What happened?” Matthew asked coming out of his trance.

“You tell us, you were in some kind of trance after you heard a whip cracked.” Sawdust said.

“O-Oh, s-sorry just haven’t heard a whip in so long.” He said stuttering and trying to forget the memories he saw.

“Ya gonna be alright?” Applejack asked.

“Y-Yeah.” Matthew said nodding and trying to give a smile to the two to make them worry less.

Applejack could tell he was faking the smile and something about the whip caused him to go through something from his past “Why don’t you take it easy for a bit, I think the heat might be getting to you.” Applejack said.

“N-No I’m fine.” Matthew said. Big Mac snapped the whip causing Matthew to stiffen up a bit.

“Big Mac!” Applejack yelled at him.

“Ya not alright.” Big Mac said “Ya need ta rest for a bit.”

“I-I’m fine.” Matthew said stuttering.

Before anyone could say anything Caramel Apple came running up “Applejack! Apple Dumpling broke her arm and won’t be able to do the face paints and sketches!”

“How did she break her arm?” Applejack asked worried.

“She fell and broke her arm moving hay from the barn.” Caramel Apple said.

“We’ll need to find someone who can paint and sketch.” Applejack said sighing.

“I-I can do it.” Matthew said making them all look at him.

“You can sketch and paint?” Caramel Apple asked.
“Yeah he can.” Applejack said “Ah’ll let ya do it but you need to go rest for bit.”

“A-Alright.” Matthew said. Sawdust took Matthew back to the guest house leaving the three alone.

“Hide the whips and make sure they ain’t anywhere in sight.” Applejack said to Big Mac who nodded.

“Why are we hiding the whips?” Caramel Apple asked.

“Just a hunch.” Applejack said walking past her leaving her to sit there still wondering what happened.

Applejack made her way into the guest house and saw Matthew sitting in a chair drinking a glass of water “Mind if ah talk with ya for a moment?” Applejack asked as she took a seat in front of him.

“I-If it’s about what happened it’s nothing to worry about, I’m fine.” He said avoiding her eyes and keeping his head down making Applejack know something wasn’t right.

“You’ve been abused by a whip haven’t you?” She asked keeping her eyes on him.

“It’s alright Matt, you don’t have to worry about us not understanding.” Sawdust said walking out of the back room with a cold rag and placed it on the back of his neck “I’ve seen your scars on your neck, I know they aren’t normal scars.”

Matthew felt the tears coming on as he looked up at the two mares “I-I’ve been whipped for most of my life.” He fought back the tears as he spoke “T-The scar on my right eye was my first encounter with a whip, after that I was beaten then whipped, the three farms I-I lived at I was beaten and whipped.” He said as he felt the tears run down his cheeks, he felt a lump in his throat as the memories he fought to keep out of his mind came flooding back again.

“It’s alright, ya safe from those monsters.” Applejack said placing her hand on his shoulder “Ah made sure the whips we use are locked up and kept out of reach.”

“Y-You d-didn’t have t-to do that.” Matthew said stuttering through the lump in his through.

“It brought back some bad memories and we don’t need that happenin’ now.” Applejack said trying to comfort him.

Sawdust placed her hand on his other shoulder “I wish you would have told me sooner Matthew, I would have made sure this didn’t happen.”

“I-I’m sorry, I-I thought I would be fine.” He said feeling guilty for not telling her.

“I know now and that’s all that matters.” Sawdust said giving him a hug “Alright, your gonna just take it easy for now once you’ve calmed down then you can finish helping the others.”

After a while Matthew calmed down and was back outside working with Applejack and the others helping get the fair up and ready for tonight.

A royal carriage made its way down the dirt path towards the apple farm as the sun was beginning to set.

To Be Continued.

Author's Note

Enjoy! :pinkiecrazy:

Chapter 3. Love ones. Old friends. King?

Chapter 3.

The Apple farm was filled with ponies from Ponyville who gathering around the many stalls playing the games or eating food. Matthew sat in his stall with Apple Dumpling watching over his shoulder in what he did. She was impressed with his skills.

“I think you can handle everything on your own.” Apple Dumpling said giving him a smile as she got up. Matthew continued to paint some colts and fillies faces.

Applejack stood by watching and keeping an eye on him after what happened. She notices how happy he was painting and sketching. It was like the world faded away and he could be himself.

“Shocking how the man you see now was scared before.” Sawdust said making Applejack jump.

“H-He seems so different.” Applejack said looking at Sawdust.

“These are the moments I like to see with him.” Sawdust said “It’s his escape from the world.”

Before Applejack could say anything she spotted the royal carriage coming down the road and to her farm “Ah see that she has made it!” Granny Smith said with joy in her voice.

The carriage stopped and two guard ponies stepped out and walked up to the door and opened it. Matthew notices the ponies and that’s when he saw her, her mane was blue and long with stars within her mane. Her eyes were light red and her smile felt familiar to him “Mind if ah ask for a picture?” Matthew snapped out of his trance and looked at the pony in front of him and saw Apple Bloom standing there.

“S-Sure, what would you like?” Matthew asked grabbing the sketch book Apple Dumpling left him to use.

The Queen looked around with a worried Luna by her side “Are you sure you're well enough for this mom?” Luna asked stepping out of the carriage.

“As I told your sister, it’s just a cold, I’ll be fine.” She said giving Luna a smile “Now, relax and have some fun! It is a festival after all.”

Luna tried not to worry about her mother however with how she’s been acting just made her worry more and more “I will try mom.”

“Queen Moonlight! It is so great seein’ ya again!” Granny Smith said walking up to the Queen and giving her a hug. The Queen hugged her back “It is so good to see you too Granny!” The two pulled away and that’s when the Queen saw Applejack standing there “You’ve grown up since the last time I’ve seen you Applejack.” Moonlight said noticing how much she took from her mother Pear Butter “When I heard you helped defeat king Sombra with the elements of harmony I wish I wasn’t out of the country.”

Applejack was confused by the Queen’s word “Ah don’t follow.” Applejack said rubbing the back of her neck.

“Your mother and I were the best-est of friends, I asked Granny to let me tell you when I was given the free time, I’ve been wanting to see all for so long.” Moonlight said smiling. Luna was standing there shocked by her mother’s words along with Applejack “Where are Apple Bloom and Big Mac?”

“Big Mac is around here somewhere.” Granny said looking around for Big Mac when she notices Apple Bloom over by Matthew “And Apple Bloom is over at the Art booth gettin’ a picture.”

“What can ya tell me about my mom?” Applejack asked.

“Why don’t we find somewhere to sit and I’ll tell you whatever you want.” Moonlight said with a smile. The four found a nice spot to sit “What would you like to know?”

“How close were you two?” Applejack asked.

“Very close, my father sent me to Ponyville to understand my subjects in order to help better our nation. When I met your mother, she made me laugh and from that day we became friends, I would help her with chores which was new to me and I got to learn so much about Ponyville through her eyes. Your mother's light still shines bright within you.” Moonlight said remembering Pear Butter always helping someone “Her values I taught my own girls, I know if your parents were still here they would so proud of you.”

“Thank you.” Applejack said smiling “Ah try to make them proud.”

“Your father would be gloating about how amazing his little girl is.” Moonlight said chuckling “When you were born he was already saying how you and Big Mac would do such great things.”

“He was always saying how great his family is.” Granny said chuckling “Ah remember when you two butted heads over who Applejack looked like the most.”

Moonlight chuckled “I still see so much more of Pear Butter in Applejack then Bright Mac, however he was right about the eyes, that’s the only time I’ll agree with him.”

Apple Bloom walked up to the three “Applejack! Look at what Matthew made!” Apple Bloom said holding up a picture of Apple Bloom with Applejack standing on Apple Blooms right side and Big Mac standing on her left side and that’s when Applejack eyes widen as she saw none other then her parents smiling proudly behind them with their hands on their shoulders. Applejack felt a tear fall down her cheek.

Moments earlier.

Apple Bloom pulled out an old picture and handed it to Matthew who looked at it. In the picture was a stallion with bright red hair with a light brown stetson hat on, he had his arms around a mare with brilliant gamboge hair and she was holding a foal in a blanket in her arms. In front of the two were a filly and a colt and Matthew notices they were Applejack and Big Mac when they were younger “Could you update this picture to have them standing behind us smiling?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Sure.” Matthew handed her the picture back.

“Don’t you need it?” Apple Bloom asked.

“No, I got what I need.” Matthew said as he took out his pen and started sketching away.

Present.

“This is really good.” Moonlight said looking at the sketch.

“I asked Matthew if he could update the picture you gave me Applejack. He did an awesome job!” Apple Bloom said with a smile.

Applejack was just stunned by how he captured their smiles and joy in their eyes.

“This stallion is indeed talented.” Luna said “Could give Tia a run for her bits.”

“Matthew isn’t a stallion.” Granny said “He’s Sawdust's human.”

“Sawdust has a human?” Moonlight asked shocked.

“Her kids bought him, she wasn’t happy with the idea of him being a slave.” Granny said “Ah wonder where she ran off to?”

“I went to get everyone some drinks.” Sawdust said making the group jump as she placed down some beverages “It is good to see you two again, it has been sometime since I’ve last seen you both. Where’s Tia?” Sawdust asked taking a seat.

“Tia wanted to get some things done, so it’s just us and a few of my guards.” Moonlight said smiling at her old friend.

“How’s teaching going?” Luna asked.

“I have a new student, he picks up everything I teach him quite easily.” Sawdust said.

“Teaching humans to read again?” Moonlight said chuckling as she took a sip of the beverage Sawdust brought them.

“You know me too well.” Sawdust said chuckling.

“Ah’ll be right back.” Applejack said getting up and leaving the four alone.

“Does she not like it?” Apple Bloom asked out loud.

“I think she loved it.” Moonlight said looking at Apple Bloom “I think she just needs a bit of fresh air.”

“We’re already outside.” Apple Bloom said confused.

Moonlight chuckled “Your father thought the same way when it came to things like this.”

“You knew my dad!?” Apple Bloom asked looking at Moonlight.

“I did, why don’t you sit down, I’ll tell you everything you wanna know.” Moonlight said with a smile as Apple Bloom took Applejack’s seat.

Apple Dumpling walked up to Matthew who was finishing up a sketch for a couple who couldn’t keep their hands off each other which Matthew just ignored the couple.

“Why don’t you take a break after this.” Apple Dumpling said to Matthew as he sketched.

“A-Are you sure? I can keep going.” Matthew said.

“I’m sure. you need a break.” She said.

Matthew nodded as he finished the sketch and handed the couple their picture as they were very happy and thanked him as they went to enjoy the night.

“Thank you again Matthew for this, come back in about half an hour.” Apple Dumpling said counting the bits that were given to Matthew.

Matthew notices Applejack walking into the orchard. He decided to follow her into the orchard. After awhile Applejack came to a clearing where two trees were wrapped around each other as they formed a heart as one tree was a pear tree and the other was an apple tree. Applejack took a seat on a nearby bolder. Matthew was in awe at the sight before him “This is beautiful.” He said out loud making Applejack jump and look at Matthew.

“W-What are ya doin’ here?” Applejack asked.

“I-I’m on break and saw you walking out h-here alone, I-I wanted to make sure everything was alright.” He said “I-I can leave if you want.”

“No, yer fine.” Applejack said “Come sit.” Applejack said patting the a spot next to her. Matthew took a seat next to her and looked at the tree before him “My parents planted two seeds, one a pear tree and one an apple tree.” Applejack said “They may have came from different worlds but their love was strong.”

Matthew looked at Applejack who had tears in her eyes as she stared at the trees “They would be proud of you.” Matthew said making Applejack looked at him “When Apple Bloom showed me that picture of you all together I could see how happy they were with you all. When I was sketching the picture she wanted I knew in my heart they wanted you all to know they were proud.”

Applejack smiled “Thank you for that. Ah haven’t seen them in so long and seein’ them with us again just.” Applejack felt the tears escape some more as she tried to control her emotions.

“It brought you joy and sadness.” Matthew said “You knew them for so long and the day you lost them still stings.” He said “A friend once told me, no matter how hard it is, the ones you love will remain in your heart forever.”

Applejack wiped the tears away as she looked at Matthew “Ya full of surprises.” She said chuckling “You can cook, you're an artist, you're good at buildin’ and now you're givin’ advice.” She chuckled “How anyone could hurt you makes no sense to me, your heart is too kind.”

Matthew blushed “I-I’m just trying to help.” He said rubbing the back of his neck.

“You did help, Matthew.” Applejack said giving him a smile “Thank you.”

“A-Anytime.” He said with a smile which made Applejack happy.

“Can I ask you somethin’?”

“S-Sure.”

“Do you miss your parents?”

Matthew looked away from Applejack and looked down at the ground “I-I don't know my parents, I was abandoned."

“Oh, I’m sorry.” Applejack said feeling guilty for asking.

“I-It’s alright, I may not have known them but I met some great people who I say are my family.” He said looking up from the ground and looking at Applejack with a smile.

“I’m glad, maybe one day ya’ll be free and be able to live a normal life.” Applejack said.

Matthew gave her a half smile “That won’t happen in my life time, but maybe one day.” He thought.

“C-Can you draw them again? In front of this tree?” Applejack asked.

Matthew dug in his bag and pulled out his sketchbook “Sure.”

A few hours later

It started to become late and the fair was beginning to end. Some of the stalls were beginning to close up for the night. However Apple Dumpling was a bit angry as Matthew never returned after his break which forced her to shut down earlier than she wanted. She walked up to the group of ponies at the table and asked Granny Smith where Matthew was which then caused them to wonder where Applejack was as well.

Luna took her guards and her captain to look over near the Everfree Forest while Sawdust, Moonlight and Granny Smith look in the orchard for Matthew and Applejack. They looked for a good few hours before Moonlight notices a clearing with the two trees forming a heart and that’s when she saw the two sitting on a boulder and she notices Applejack was laying on the human’s shoulder and she notices his head resting on her head “The two fell asleep.” Moonlight said chuckling. This brought a smile to her face, a flash of a young man’s face with brown eyes and blond hair came to her mind and her smile faded and turned to sadness “I-I found them!” Moonlight called out to the others.

Applejack heard the yell, causing her to slowly open her eyes to see she was resting on someone’s shoulder. She went to lift her head when she felt something resting on hers and that’s when everything started to come to mind. She started crying again and Matthew let her cry into his shoulder and must have fallen asleep and he must have fallen asleep too.

Matthew felt something moving underneath his head causing him to lift his head “Uh? W-What’s going on?” He asked trying to wake up.

“I-I must have fallen asleep on ya shoulder.” Applejack said feeling her cheeks heat up.

“O-Oh.” Matthew felt his cheeks heat up.

“Oh thank the Gods ya alright.” Granny Smith said walking up to the two “When ya didn’t come back Ah got worried.”

“I’m sorry Granny, Matt and Ah were talkin’ and lost track of time.” Applejack said still feeling tired.

Matthew felt a hand touch his shoulder making him look to see Sawdust “Glad you're alright too Matthew.” Matthew smiled as the group started making their way out of the orchard he stopped in his tracks as he saw the Queen standing there smiling at them.

“Y-Your highness.” Matthew said bowing.

Moonlight watched as Matthew looked back up and that’s when she notices his eyes. His right eye stuck out the most, it was black with a red line around it. She quickly un-panicked her mind as she greeted him “I’m glad to see you both safe and sound.”

Matthew for some reason felt comfortable near her. He felt a strange force within his heart that he didn’t understand. He figured it might have been the funnel cakes he had earlier messing with him “T-Thank you.”

With everyone counted for they returned back to the house. Moonlight looked at Matthew one more time before she left with Luna and her guards by their side.

Matthew walked into his room as he placed down his sketchbook. He drew a few things for Applejack that he needed to finish tomorrow. He was about done to till Applejack started crying again. He felt bad he made her cry, she really misses her parents. He took a seat on his bed as he looked out at the night sky from his window “I never really had parents growing up, just caretakers as they called themselves. Only person I really called family was Amber and she was sold off before I was sold of too.” He looked at the moon shining bright “I wonder if my parents even loved me?”

Moonlight sat in the carriage with her daughter next to her. Moonlight’s mind was on the young man named Matthew “His right eye, its just like his. The child I once held in my arms. The true king of Equestria. C-Could he have lived?” Moonlight looked at her right hand, a long scar ran across her hand “If the boy is him then we must help him become the true king.”

To Be Continued.

Author's Note

Let me know what you all think! :pinkiecrazy:

Chapter 4. Ruins. Teddy Bear. Orders

Author's Note

What a new chapter the next day!? :trollestia:

Chapter 4. Ruins. Teddy Bear. Orders

Chapter 4.

Twilight placed the last of her bags down. Her eyes were in wonder of the ruins of the castle. It reminded her of the castle in the Everfree Forest.

“I bet they had the best parties here!” Pinkie Pie said bouncing around the ruins.

“The castle in Canterlot is bigger.” Spike said scratching the back of his neck.

“This does look like the grand hall.” Twilight said looking around.

“This is actually the throne room.” A male voice said causing them to jump.

“W-Who is there?” Twilight asked looking around and that’s when she spotted a stallion by a chair with a book in his hands while next to him was a human.

“Names Blaze! This guy reading his book is Night Shimmer!” Blaze said with a proud smile. The stallion looked up from his book and smiled “Sunset Shimmer sent us to help you girls out in finding a vault.”

“Sorry we didn’t meet up at the train station, guards were heavily there and with us being wanted criminals had to sneak our way here.” Night Shimmer said closing his book “I have some old maps we can go over so we can find the location of the vault.”

“You have maps!?” Twilight asked excited as she rushed over towards the two.

“Before we get into looking let’s get a base camp set up.” Blaze said “Then we can focus on tracking down this vault.”

“Hi I’m Pinkie Pie!” She said bouncing around Blaze making him chuckle.

“Nice to meet you Pinkie Pie! I am Blaze!” Blaze said with a big smile “So, what did you guys bring?”

“I-I don’t mean to be rude but, you don’t act like your a slave.” Twilight said.

Blaze looked at Twilight “I was raised overseas and spared from slavery.” He said “Once I was old enough I set off to Equestria to help my kind here.” Blaze gave a smile “So learning more about my people’s history can help them.”

“Then let’s get the base camp up and running then we can find the lost knowledge for your people.” Twilight said with a smile.

After a few hours base camp was set up and ready to go.
With the maps in hand they started charting and getting their bearings as they searched through the ruins of the old castle and the land around it.

“It’s getting late, we can the trail tomorrow.” Night Shimmer said watching the sun slowly setting down.

Twilight sighed “Fine, just knowing their is books hiding somewhere here is driving me crazy!”

“I know what you mean, knowing their is a library hiding with lost text from an ages ago has me itching to know about them as well.” Night said as they headed back.

Once they returned to camp they saw Pinkie Pie and Blaze cooking dinner for the group. Twilight notices Spike sound asleep with some gems in his claws and it made her chuckle.

Twilight notices an odd smell “What is that smell?” She asked walking towards them.

“Oh, that should be my fish you smell.” Blaze said “I did a bit of fishing by the river before heading back here.” He said cooking.

“I’ve heard humans eat meat but never knew the smell.” Twilight said taking in the odd smell as she watched him cook.

“I made cupcakes for after dinner!” Pinkie Pie said with a big smile.

“Don’t worry, I made you guys normal food, I don’t think you wanna try my fish.” Blaze said chuckling as he placed down three plates filled with cooked hay with a nice salad.

“Oh this look wonderful Blaze.” Night said digging into his meal.

“What’s it like living overseas?” Twilight asked taking a bite of her food and tasting the spices Blaze use wash over her taste buds and causing her to have a mini food orgasm “Oh this is soooo yummy!”

Blaze chuckled “I have it good, my father works as a blacksmith forging weapons and shields and my mother runs a bakery.” He said smiling “My mom taught me how to cook.”

“You must be proud of how both your parents could live a life without being enslaved.” Twilight said.

“I mean my dad knew what it was life, he was an ex-slave who worked in a blacksmith shop. When my mom freed him from his chains they left for overseas.” Blaze said “Dad said loving a pony was never his plan till he met my mother.” He chuckled at his father's words.

“Y-Your a half breed!?” Twilight asked shocked.
“Yeah, half breed.” He said proudly.

“Ooo! That is soo cool!” Pinkie Pie said “But you don’t have any fur?” She asked with a puzzle look.

“They aren’t always like us Pinkie, sometimes they take more human side then the pony side.” Blaze said “I’ve did some research and it’s always hard to pinpoint what side takes more. Still more study is needed.”

“Do you have magic as well?” Twilight asked.

“No, my mother was an earth pony and my father wasn’t born with magic even tho they made him wear those wrist things.” He said taking a seat and eating his fish.

Twilight looked at the fish “Mind if I taste it?” She asked making Blaze look at her.

“Sure.” Blaze cut a nice bite size piece for her and she took a bite. Now Blaze was expecting her to spit the fish out and say how nasty it was only to be surprised by the look in her face, it looked like the face she had before when she started eating the hay he made.

“This is good! I thought it was gonna taste nasty but the flavors! Oh that is good!”

“Glad you like it, I’ll have to catch more fish so you can try out the full dish.”

Once dinner was done the group got their things ready for bed. Twilight pulled out her book and started writing down what she had learned from Blaze today “So the myth of half breeds aren’t myths, this opens up doors! Meaning there might be ponies out there who have human ancestors! I’ll need to ask Blaze for some blood… Oh I forgot my gear at home! Maybe I can get Sunset to set it up! WAIT! She knew! She sent both these two here and not once has she told me about Blaze being a half breed!” Now Twilight as a bit angry. She’ll have to have a nice long talk with her about that “I wonder how Applejack is doing?”

Applejack sat on her bed with her knees to her chest as she fought back tears. The thought of her parents weighed heavy on her heart. She missed them and seeing them smiling just made her want them here.

There came a knock at her door and she quickly wiped the tears from “Y-Yes?” Applejack called out.

“I-It’s me, Matthew. I finished that picture.” She heard Matthew’s voice on the other end.

She quickly looked at herself in the mirror to make sure she looked alright “My eyes are red from crying.” She shook her head and made her way to the door and opened it up. She could see Matthew standing there with his sketchbook “T-Thank ya kindly for drawing that for me.”

“I drew you something extra.” Matthew said giving her two pieces of paper. The first picture was the one she requested, her parents standing hand in hand in front of the trees with smiles on their faces. It brought a smile to her face, she looked at the second picture and it caused tears to start to flow once again. Her parents were hugging her “I-I felt you needed something with them hug-” His words were cut off by Applejack pulling him into a bear hug causing him to be startled. He wrapped his arms around her hugging her back.

“T-Thank you.” She said still hugging him “I-It means a lot to me.”

Matthew felt his cheeks heat up “I-I’m happy it means that much to you.”

Applejack felt a bit better and pulled away from Matthew and smiled at him “S-Sorry about the shirt, Ah can wash it for ya if you want.”

“It’s alright.” He said with a smile “It will dry in time.”

“If ya say so.” Applejack gave Matthew a smile “Thank you again.”

“Anytime, I better get going, Apple Dumpling might get angry if I don’t get back and take care of the painting and such.” He said.

“Ah won’t keep ya.” She said smiling as Matthew left.

Applejack closed her door and sat down on her bed. She looked at the two pictures and couldn’t help but smile. More tears started to work their way out “Ah gotta do somethin’ nice for Matt, he did such an amazing job. Ah gotta top what he did.” Applejack sighed “But what would he like?” Applejack wiped the tears away as she thought about what he might like “Ah know he likes ta draw, maybe Ah can get him something ta do with that.” Applejack got up from her bed and looked at herself in the mirror “Look at me, Ah’m a mess.”

Canterlot castle was alive with ponies moving about as the King was returning from his trip. Moonlight remained in her room with Luna’s captain with her.

“Ma’am, I do not understand, if you knew about Luna’s rebel force why not speak with her about getting this human out of Ponyville.” The captain asked.

“I need my children to remain out of this, if they knew who Matthew really was they would be endanger from Solar and I cannot allow them to be harmed.” Moonlight said “You Nightfire are the only one who can do this, you must protect him and train him.”

Nightfire removed her helmet revealing her face, her light blue hair was cut short and a long scar ran across her left eye “For the true king I will do what I can to protect him, but I still believe Luna or Celestia could teach him better than I can.”

“They could yes however if the King learns his daughters are aiding the enemy he will kill one of them.” Moonlight said “I cannot risk their lives on this one.”

“I do not wish to see the princesses killed, however I do believe they should know.”

“I will tell them when the time has come.” Moonlight said walking up to Nightfire and handing her a piece of paper “Give this to Sawdust, this will help you get Matthew out of there.”

“What should I tell him about you?” Nightfire asked taking the paper.

“I will be the one to tell him face to face when the time is right, for now just tell him he is the true king of the humans, his father was of royal descent as well.” Moonlight said “Just take good care of him.”

“I will your highness.” Nightfire placed her helmet back on and made her way out of the room leaving Moonlight alone in the room.

She made her way over towards her window and looked out and saw the humans working “Soon, your king will free you. He’ll free us all.”

The fair was back and alive. Ponies from Ponyville returned and were hitting up everything. Apple Dumpling told Matthew to take a break and rest his hands. Instead of doing what he was told he found a spot and started sketching. After awhile of sketching he notices Braeburn and Big Mac playing a game where they use the arrows to shoot the moving targets. He then notices Applejack walking over towards the two.

“Feelin’ better sis?” Big Mac asked.

“Feelin’ a lot better.” Applejack said with a smile.

“Care to put your skills to the test?” Braeburn said holding up the bow.

“Ya know Ah can shoot better then you.” Applejack said with a smile “What’s the price?”

The vender smiled “This big teddy bear!” Applejack looked at the teddy bear, by it’s right ear there was a apple shaped pin.

“This will be easy!” Applejack said with a smile as she took the bow and took aim.

The targets started moving and Applejack hit the targets except one target that was going too fast for her to get a steady aim. Before she knew it her time ran out “Sorry, better luck next time.”

“This game is rigged! No one could shoot that target!” Applejack said angry.

“I-I could make that shot.” The four looked at the voice and Applejack saw Matthew standing there.

“Ya can shoot a bow?” Applejack asked.

Matthew nodded “Y-Yeah.”

“Who would teach you?” Braeburn asked.

“My master before Sawdust was an archer and liked to test his skills on dangerous animals and hated having his back uncovered. I-I was the only one he trusted not to shoot him.” Matthew said. Applejack handed Matthew the bow and he took aim. Matthew took a deep breath and held it in and then unleashed the arrows. Each arrow hit it’s mark and when it came to the final target Matthew shot and it hit making the guy at the stall jaw drop as Matthew hit the target “I-I believe I won.” Matthew said.

The rest of the group were in awe at how he took that last shot “H-Here you go.” The stallion said handing Matthew the teddy bear.

“I-I believe you wanted this?” Matthew said looking at Applejack who took the bear.

“T-Thank you.” Applejack said blushing and taking the bear.

“You would make for an amazing slave Matthew.” Braeburn said placing his arm around his shoulder “You and I could do amazing things!”

“Knock it off Braeburn! He’s happy where he is.” Big Mac said “Ah don’t understand why ya even want slaves when we can do the work and let them be free.”

“Big Mac your not thinking big here! They cut down on us working! We can take it easy and just relax!” Braeburn said still keeping his arm around Matthew’s shoulder.

“Why treat them like slaves and not equals?” Big Mac asked “Matthew here has been more help then someone who is a slave.”

“He still have the training like a slave!” He said “Trust me! He’ll be more happy on my fa-” Braeburn felt Matthew move away from him and interrupt him “I am owned by Sawdust! She has told you already no! I know the stallion you are, you use your slaves like you want till they can’t do what you want and toss the ones you can’t use to the side! I’ve seen humans who have outlived their usefulness and be killed because of it depending on the owner! I know I will not be welcomed in your world.” Matthew said with rage in his eyes/ Braeburn looked at Matthew with a shocked look on his face “If your heart was what you claim to be then you would have won me over but I see a stallion who’s heart still need time to truly see the light.” Matthew quickly shut his mouth and started to panic “I-I’m sorry, I-I shouldn’t have said that.”

“No, it’s alright Matthew.” Braeburn said “Your right, my heart is mixed.” Braeburn looked at Big Mac and Applejack “I think I’ll head home.”

“You don’t have ta leave.” Big Mac said.

“No, I need to rethink things.” Braeburn said walking off leaving three alone.

“I-I’m sorry.” Matthew said feeling ashamed for what he said.

“No need to be sorry Matthew.” Big Mac said placing his hand on his shoulder “You spoke the truth and now he’s going to rethink things.”

“Ya didn’t do anythin’ wrong Matt.” Applejack said giving him a smile which made Matthew smile.

Braeburn stepped into the barn and started packing his bags “What I’m doing, is it wrong? Am I just using these humans for my own gain? Matthew acts free yet isn’t.” He looked at an old picture he brought of his parents “Have I failed them?” He placed the picture into the bag and made his way out of the barn. He took one last look at the fair and saw how Applejack was staring at Matthew “Maybe I’ve been wrong this whole time.” He started making his way down the path towards the train station.

By midnight most of the ponies had left allowing everyone to get ready for bed for the final day of the family reunion.

Applejack placed the teddy bear down on her nightstand and smiled “Now Ah gotta get him somethin’ ta truly thank him.” She got ready for bed and as she faded into slumber a white mist flew out of her ear and outside and into the guest house where Matthew was asleep.

“And with that, I will connect their hearts.” A female voice said “Fate has plans for you both, together you’ll do great things.” The white mist faded away and two sleeping figures smiled in their sleep.

Nightfire sat on the train heading to Ponyville. Her mind set on getting Matthew and taking him to the ruins of the old kingdom of Avalon “I must not fail the Queen. Matthew must be ready for the war ahead.” She looked out the window as the stars in the sky shining bright. She chuckled “Hard to believe I was trusted for this job. Out of all the ponies I was chosen to protect the royal bloodline of both humans and ponies. I do wonder how he’ll take the news.”

To Be Continued.

Chapter 5. Dreams, Dances, Death.

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Chapter 6

Chapter 6.

Celestia sat in her bedroom, her face filled with sadness as she watched the moon float in the sky. Her eyes kept on the moon, there came a gentle knock on the door “Come in.” The door opened revealing her mother “Mom, what are you doing still up?”

“I couldn’t sleep, figured you couldn’t sleep as well.” Moonlight said as she brought a small metal cart with some cake and tea “I also brought us a snack.”

Celestia chuckled “Of course, you bring the cakes.”

“I mean, cake always makes me feel better.” She said chuckling as she cut a couple of slices.

“Why did Luna have to leave? Between you and Luna I had some hope, feeling I was doing good in this world and now,” She turned away from her mother and looked out at the world “I have to face father with only you by my side.”

“I know I’m not much help when it comes to your father, Luna has been your rock for most of your life.” Moonlight placed the cake to the side as she kept her eyes on her daughter “You still have your dreams to speak with her when you need her.”

Celestia slowly turned towards her mom “Why did she have to go find herself now? I have till the end of the year before I’m named Queen, once I’m Queen she could have gone off to find herself.”

“Tia, sit.” Moonlight patted her bed and Celestia made her way over and took a seat “There comes a time in everyone’s life where they need to explore, you got to spend time in Cloudsdale for two years, Luna has only ever been with us traveling.” Moonlight took a sip of her tea “It’s her time to find herself.”

“I-I know I shouldn’t be upset with her leaving, yet I feel like she left because of me.” Celestia took the cup of tea and took a sip hoping it might calm her down.

“You know Lulu loves you and would never be upset with you.” Moonlight placed her hand on her daughter’s shoulder “We’ll get through this together.”

Celestia smiled as she knew her mother was right, she took some cake and began to eat some of it “I swear if the cake didn’t make me fat I would eat this every day.”

“I know right!” Moonlight said chuckling as they ate their cake and talked.

The moon was high in the sky as Matthew sat outside on the porch. His mind on what had happened. He felt a hand touch his shoulder and he looked up to see the moon princess herself standing there “I know you lost a close friend but we do need to talk.” Luna said softly. He nodded as he stood and followed the princess inside. He noticed Applejack by the fireplace with the strange pony that was with Luna “Matthew, why don’t you take a seat, you too Applejack.” Matthew took a seat on the couch as Applejack sat next to him. He didn’t know what she wanted. Luna took a seat across from them as she looked for the right words to say “I know you’ve been through a lot so far Matthew, this news should help you feel better.” Luna gave him a light smile “You are my older brother.”

Matthew blinked “W-What?” His mind began to race a mile a minute. Applejack on the other hand looked at him.

“Your mother Moonlight fell in love with a servant, this servant bloodline was that of the Avalon heir.” Luna noticed Matthew was still staring at her and she kept going “He bared the mark of the king, your eye is what gives you away.” She said pointing to his right eye “Our mother thought you were dead, knowing you're alive not only does she fear you may be discovered and killed again.”

“S-So he’s of royal blood on both sides? W-Wait, why are you even tellin’ him this? Wouldn’t it be better ta have him kept hidden?” Applejack asked.

“Matthew is the king of both humans and Ponies and he’s the firstborn son on both sides making Matthew the heir to both thrones.” Luna said as she looked over at Matthew, “Matthew, I cannot force you to become a king, however, I have to at least train you how to be a leader and Fire here will teach you the art of the sword.”

Matthew looked away from Luna as he was lost in his thoughts “I-I have sisters! I have a mother! Y-Yet I’m king! I-I can’t be king! I’m a slave, a worthless slave! T-This has to be a joke! Yet I have family, something I’ve always wanted.” He felt a hand touch his breaking him out of his thoughts and he looked to see Applejack staring at him with concern in her eyes “Ya alright? Ya have been quiet for a good while.”

“S-Sorry! J-Just a lot to take in.” He said, giving her a light smile showing he’s alright. He looked over at Luna who was also slightly concerned “S-So you’re my sister?”

“I am.” She said with a slight smile “And I’m happy I know I have a brother, knowing I have someone like you makes me happy.”

This made Matthew happy knowing his sister was happy to have him “I-I don’t know if I can be a good king.” He looked at the bracelet on his wrist, he was always a slave, he wasn’t a leader. He worked hard in the fields along with helping carry items.

“I know you won’t make a good king.” Luna said being honest with Applejack shooting a glare “Before you bite my head off Applejack let me explain.” Luna stood and made her way over to Matthew so she could explain everything to him “You have been raised to fear ponies, since the day you were born all you’ve known is fear, you weren’t trained in the ways of negotiations or how to act at a royal dinner or even know how to run a war if needed.” She kept her eyes on Matthew “However you are a royal line, it’s my job to protect you and to get you to at least lead your people, when the time comes for you to make a choice to be a king or to live a normal life, only you can make that choice.” She placed her hands on his “I will be there with you through everything, and one day Celestia will be with you as well.”

“W-Why isn’t she here?” He asked slightly concerned.

“She doesn’t know, to keep you safe we need to keep this between us, moving forwards we need to get you at least ready for what’s to come.” She said keeping her eyes on Matthew, She lowered down to get a better look at Matthew’s face “I know this is something you are afraid of, I’m with you on that front, the best place for the both of us is your homeland, Avalon, my sister’s student Twilight is there, with her help we can get you ready for the world.”

“W-With this bracelet I-I’m afraid me leaving with you won’t happen.” He said looking at his bracelet, with Sawdust gone the magic within will now inform the slavers his owner was gone and he would be dragged back to the marketplace to be resold.

“Oh, I already know of this Matthew.” Luna placed her hands on his bracelet “I will buy you, so you don-” Matthew pulled away from Luna and stood “I-I cannot let you buy me! W-Were family.”

“Then Ah’ll buy ya Matt.” Applejack said, trying to help.

“No, you will be breaking your own ways, I-I cannot let you all break the way you are for my sake.” Matthew looked away from everyone as he looked to the floor, tears were being fought back, he didn’t want them to break their own rules or even morals on him, he wasn’t this king, he was a worthless human.

“Matt ya goin’ ta be bought by one of us now, we ain’t lettin ya be taken away.” Applejack said “While I’m against ya owning a slave, ya ain’t goin’ to be a slave in my eyes, ya goin ta be free.”

“You can’t Applejack, none of you can own me.” He stood “I can’t let any of you own me.” He quickly moved away from them and up the stairs he went. Leaving the three alone.
“He can’t really stop you two from buying him.” Night Fire said as she watched it all go down.

“I know it goes against his wishes however we need to keep him close,” Luna said with a slight frown on her face, she really didn’t want to own her brother nor did she want Applejack to own him as well. Yet they needed him safe and the only way was to buy him.

“Ya family, you shouldn’t own a family member.” Applejack said, looking at Luna who was still standing nearby.

“Yeah I agree however you have made a strong stance on owning humans, I am known to a family of slave owners, so, me buying a new slave won’t bat an eye.”

“No one is buying me!” They heard him shout “I am buying myself.” a small carry bag hit the table with a thud “T-This is enough to buy myself, no coins by anyone.” They all looked at the coins “T-This way no one bought me.”

Luna counted the coins “H-How did you make this many gold coins?”

“I saved up from Sawdust and from the job I took painting.” He said as he watched Luna count the coins.

“You do know one of our names will be on ya papers right?” Applejack said.

“Y-Yes but this way it doesn’t go against your wishes of owning a human, I paid for myself, I just had to go through one of you two.” He lowered his head, he didn’t feel all that right about it however the coins that were going to go towards an art kit he was wanting will be used to help buy his freedom instead.

“I’ll make this easier on his mind.” Night Fire said stepping forwards “I don’t mind owning Matthew here, since I was already told to do whatever it takes to keep him safe, might as well keep both of you out of the spotlight.”

“Are you sure?” Luna asked.

“It keeps you two from owning a human one being your brother,” Night Fire looked over at Applejack “And the other being a lover.” Night Fire said making everyone look at her with a shocked look on their faces.

“Now hold on! We ain’t lovers, we’re friends.” Applejack said with some red on her cheeks.

“It’s no matter whether or not both of you will be in the clear.” Night Fire said as made her way towards the door and left the three alone.

Luna looked at Matthew and Applejack “There is much we still need to discuss however, I think it will be best if we all get some rest, I know a lot has been thrown upon you Matthew, try and get some rest.” She said following Night Fire out the door.

The damp tunnel that ran under the ruins of the castle slowly began to glow with light as Twilight walked through the tunnels with magical orbs floating around her lighting the way.

“These tunnels are weird, it’s like some are made like decoys.” Blaze said as he marked an X at the entrance of the tunnel as a dead end.

“The castle in Canterlot has tunnels that lead to dead ends, it’s so those chasing get lost.” Twilight as she sent an orb forwards down a tunnel nearby “Ah my orb found a large chamber!” Twilight said with excitement. The two made their way down the tunnel and the chamber reviled a large cavern and a large metal vault door “I think we found what we were looking for.” Twilight sent her orbs to surround the door to shed more light and what surprised her was the strange ruins around the door. Two large metal swords were locked within a shield which looked to be the locks on the door to open the vault. The shield had words carved “The eyes of our king shall forever seal these doors.”

“These doors are sealed with a magic I’ve never seen before.” Blaze said touching one of the runes and it lit up in blacklight and shocking him, Twilight quickly rushed to Blaze’s side only to see Blaze was fine “Huh, this must be why the king couldn’t destroy it back in the day, it’s a protection spell.”

“You alright?” Twilight asked still concerned.

“Yeah I’m fine, just a slight shock nothing to worry about.” Blaze said with a grin.

Twilight examined the ruins “This is old indeed, something about screams older than Equestria.” She pulled out a book from her bag as she began to read and try and find anything about the runes.

“While you study those I’ll head back up and grab some more items so we can try and figure this out.” Blaze said as Twilight was lost in her own thoughts. He just left her alone as he went back to the surface.

After a while Twilight managed to translate some of the runes “Huh, what does chaos have to do with this door?”

The morning sun started to rise as Matthew who hasn’t been to sleep, his mind still racing with what-ifs, Matthew kept looking at his hands then back outside as if he was expecting to wake up from a dream. A soft knock interrupted his thoughts as he looked at it “It’s me Applejack, came ta check up on ya.”

Matthew stood and made his way over towards the door and opened it “I-I’m doing fine.”

Applejack could tell Matthew hadn’t slept with the dark circles under his eyes “You haven’t been to sleep, which tells me ya been thinking hard about everything.”

“It’s a lot to take in, everything I thought I was has been flipped upsidedown.” His mind then started going back into many thoughts and he was quickly taken out of his thoughts as he felt Applejack hand land on his shoulders and he looked back at her, that’s when he noticed the dark circles as well under her eyes as well “She’s been up all night as well.”

“A lot has indeed been thrown on your plate, however, you have ponies here to help you through it.” She said with a smile which made Matthew smile.

“T-Thank you,” Matthew said feeling his cheeks lightly heat up.

“You should try and get some sleep, Ah’ll wake ya when we have some food made.” Applejack said as she removed her hand from his shoulder.

He nodded as he felt a bit of relief yet he knew there was much to do and his mind was still in a haze on what he can do.

With Applejack gone Matthew laid down and slowly tried to let his mind rest and hopefully calms down a bit. As he slowly fell into a deep sleep he felt a strange sense wrap around his mind, it didn’t feel right and his eye felt off as if it was telling him something was wrong. He found himself standing in front of a strange door and strange laughter coming from within, he felt a jolt run through his system as he awoke to find the sun had moved to a lower spot in the sky. He let out a calm sigh as he figured the lack of sleep was messing with him.

“Chaos.” He heard a voice say causing him to look around.

“H-Hello?” He asked out loud to no answer “I-I think I need some food.” he said as he felt a rumble in his stomach.

Celestia stood in the grand throne room as her father looked down upon her “I will be leaving across the seas, in my sted you will be in charge of some key things.” He said as he kept his back turned towards his daughter as he spoke “This will be your test to see if you’re ready to rule or if we need more time to teach you.” He turned back towards Celestia with some hate in his eyes as he looked at his daughter “Three weeks you have to prove you are ready.” He said as he walked past her “You start today.”

Celestia smiled, she knew what she had to do and she wouldn’t let her father stop her from showing she doesn’t need a stallion to rule this country “I will make you proud.” The last part made her feel sick to her stomach yet she knew she had to say that to keep him from staying.

“Now with your father gone, we have a list of things for you to do.” A dragon said as a scroll fell to the ground “Lots of items today and so little time.”

Celestia put on her best smile and went with the dragon to do her royal duty.

To Be Continued.

Author's Note

Sorry for the long wait and a short chapter life and all! :pinkiecrazy:

Chapter 7

Chapter 7.

Luna walked through the halls of the spare house, this small house brought a smile to her face. She wondered if life had turned out differently would her family have lived in a house like this, living a normal life and not one set for her. She made her way towards a window near Matthew’s room and slowly lifted her hand as her horn glowed a light blue, her hand began to glow and the moon started to lower as the sun rose “Right on time sis.” Luna said with a smile as she knocked on Matthew’s door “Matthew, it’s time to get up, we have a long day ahead of us.”

She heard a faint noise and shuffling, then the door slowly opened to Matthew standing before her “I-I’ll be down in a minute.”

“I shall make food for us,” Luna said with a smile as she walked leaving Matthew in a room alone.

Matthew looked back at his bed and quickly made it. With that done he made his way downstairs and saw Luna placing plates on the table. The smell of pancakes and maple syrup filled the air “M-Morning.” He said as he walked into the kitchen to sit.

“Good Morning! I made pancakes!’ She said with a cheerful smile as she took a seat. Matthew took a seat looking at the pancakes in front of him “Night Fire and I were discussing after we talk with Sawdust kids about you, we’ll begin your training with a sword and after that, I can teach you some basic royal teachings of noble houses and such.” She said taking a bite of her pancakes.

“S-Sword training?” He asked, a little puzzled.

“Every great king knows how to wield a sword, even great Queens.” She said taking another bite “Night Fire is the second-best swordswoman in the world.”

“Who is the first?”

“Shining Armor, captain of the royal guards, hasn’t lost a fight yet.” She said taking another bite of her food.

“Shouldn’t he be training me?” Matt asked.

A frown slowly spread across Luna’s face “He’s too close to my father, while he hasn’t shown any hate for humans he could give you up.” Luna said with a slight worry on her face as she looked at him “For now only a few shall know and we’ll get you ready for what’s to come.”

Before Matthew could speak the front door opened and Applejack came walking in “Sorry ta just barge in on you two, Sawdust's son is here.”

“Applejack, you know the plan.” Luna said standing up “I’ll remain hidden so as not to cause issues, Matthew, we’ll make sure you remain with us.”

With a nod, the plan was set in motion. Luna quickly moved upstairs and hid while Applejack walked out of the room and outside to fetch Sawdust's son.

“I hope John lets me go.” Matt thought as the door opened up. He watched as John walked onto the home “I want to thank you again Applejack for watching him till I could get him, I’m sure he’s been much help around here.”

“He’s been such a great help.” Applejack as they walked in.

“Matthew! Good, do you have your things?” He asked.

“Mr. John right?” Night Fire said, making the stallion jump a bit.

“I am indeed John, and you are?” He asked, confused about the mare.

“My name is Storm Fire, sorry for the scare.” Night Fire said as she looked at the stallion, she could tell he seemed in a rush with how he was standing as if he didn’t want to chit-chat long “I won’t take much of your time, I want to buy Matthew off you, I have plenty of go-” Before she could finish her sentence John cut her off “Matthew isn’t for sell, I have plans for him in the city, much for us to do, come, Matthew, we need to get going before the train leaves.”

“Sir, I’m sure if we talk about this we can agree on a good deal.” Night Fire said getting close to the stallion.

“He’s not for sale, Matthew here is needed and I don’t plan on selling him at this time, however,” John pulled out a card “In a month or so I’ll be looking to sell him.”

“I-I just need to grab my bag and I’ll be ready to go.” Matthew said walking towards the stairs where Luna was.

“Okay plan B.” Luna said looking at Matthew, she went to grab his arm when he pulled back keeping her from pulling “Luna, I-If you try and take me the bracelet will send a trigger that could put me in the spotlight.” He looked at Luna “W-We need to wait, please.”

“I’ll have Night Fire on the first train out the moment we can sneak back to Canterlot.” She said giving him a hug “Stay strong.”

Matthew hugged her back. The two broke apart and he grabbed his bag that had a few clothes in it. He looked at the sketchbook and decided to leave it here.

Luna’s horn began to glow a soft blue “Applejack, Night Fire, We are going with plan C, Matthew will go with John, Night Fire will wait to follow and we’ll try and get him out of Canterlot without his tracker going off, we cannot risk him being found out right now.” Luna said through a telepathy spell.

Applejack didn’t like this plan yet knew if she tried anything now it would only put a spotlight on Matthew. She watched as Matthew made his way towards John with his bag “Send me the bill for anything Matthew used while here.” John said as he made his way toward the door with Matthew following behind.

“See you Applejack, Miss Storm Fire,” Matthew said as he walked with John outside. A carriage awaited the two. Matthew looked back at the farm and saw Luna in the window watching him leave the farm.

“When I bought you for my mother, I never thought you would be there when she died,” John said, making Matthew turn to face him. Matthew felt a strange aura around John that he didn’t like “Yet, you were.” He said as the carriage still moved past the corn rows “Where were you when she died?”

“I-I was with Miss Applejack.” Matthew said, getting slightly worried.

“Driver, take this turn coming up.” John said, keeping his eyes on Matthew. The carriage turned “My mother was always into human life, from always trying to study the human brain to even the names which I was given.” The wagon bounced a bit as they moved along the dirt path. “She cared more about humans than her own kids, the yelling she gave us when I bought you for her.” John stood “Stop the wagon here!” The wagon came to a halt.”

Meanwhile back at Sweet Apple Acres.

Applejack pulled on the lead to her horse as she was set to take off after Matthew “We should have never let him go with him! Ah’m gonna try and convince him to let him go.”

“Applejack we’ll come up with a plan, right now he’s in alright hands.” Luna said walking up to her “I won’t stop you, you're following the path you feel is right, just know we’ll need to move fast if you do what I think you’ll do.” Luna said as Applejack got on her horse and took off after Matthew.

Back on the dirt path.

Matthew was tossed out of the wagon and slammed into the ground “Yet you, a human she cared about, wasn't even there when she died! You were with some other pony else!” Matthew felt a kick to his stomach “My mother died alone because of you!” Matthew felt kick after kick to the stomach then he felt himself being pulled up and punched in the face knocking him back to the ground “You did nothing for her! I’ve seen the home, I've seen your stuff! The paintings! She spoiled you!” Another kick in the stomach “You aren’t going to go back there! You won’t even make it out of here alive!” Matthew felt two hands grip his throat “I’ll see you in hell!” Matthew felt the air cut off as he felt the life be strangled out of him. His vision began to fade and the last thought that crossed his mind was his family and Applejack smiling fading.

John watched as Matthew stopped struggling and his eyes fade from life to death. He wiped his hands off on his jacket “Take me to the train.” John said getting into the carriage and tossing Matthew’s bag into the dirt. Matthew’s lifeless body laying there, the bracelet wrapped around his wrist slowly unhooked and faded into dust.

Applejack rode fast on her horse, she noticed the carriage tracks turn down a different path than to town and changed her course. A deep worry filled Applejack’s heart as she rode. She hoped this feeling would fade yet it was eating her. She noticed something strange up ahead and her eyes went wide “No….” she saw Matthew’s lifeless body laying in the dirt. She quickly got off her horse and rushed to his body with tears in her eyes.

Avalon.

Twilight stood in front of the large vault door going over each of the symbols when one of the symbols started glowing a bright black “Okay why are you glowing?” Twilight asked as she darted down the symbol “This symbol is the formula for the infinite, why is this glowing?”

Dirt Road.

Applejack kneeled down before Matthew tears in her eyes “N-No… this isn’t right…” She slowly closed his eyes and her eyes darted towards the dirt path and the wagon trail “I’ll make sure ya get justice, Matt.” Before she could move she felt a strange surge of power and she turned to see a strange black aura wrapping around Matthew’s right arm and moving towards his neck. Then she heard him take a sharp deep breath “H-How?”

Later that Night.

Luna sat nearby Matthew’s bed as he was still sound asleep “It’s hard ta believe this bastard did something to harm Matthew this way.” Applejack said as she was still fuming.

“I don’t believe Sawdust's son had anything to do with this.” Luna said as her magic slowly faded and she looked at Applejack “The magic keeping Matthew asleep is older than anything I’ve ever felt.” Luna looked back at Matthew.

“Do you think this magic is what brought him back from the dead?” Night Fire asked.

“If it did, then it’s now doing something to his mind that I can’t break through.” Luna sighed with frustration.

“Maybe he just needs some rest.” Applejack said as she moved towards Luna “Why don’t you get some rest as well, Ah can take the first watch.”

“I’m the night Princess, I can handle a night watch with him.” Luna said using her magic to open a small bag near her and used it to pull out a few books “I’ll do some research while I can on anything human magic related.”

“Come on Miss Applejack, we could use some rest after today.” Night Fire said moving away and heading towards the stairs.

“If anythin’ changes come get me alright?” Applejack said still worried about Matthew.

Within Matthew’s Mind.

The world around Matthew was dark yet he could see for miles.

“Welcome to limbo.” A voice said, causing Matthew to jump “Don’t be alarmed, no harm shall come to here.” The darkness slowly started to change around him to a field of flowers and soon a tall man with short dark hair and blue eyes stood before him “I am the first King to hold the key.”

“I-I’m confused.” Matthew took a step back from the figure, he wasn’t sure what was going on.

“Yeah I understand that.” He said, taking a step closer, “I’ve been cut off from speaking to you.” With a wave of his hand the bracelet appeared “For so long this magical item has kept me from reaching out and helping you through why this magic is within you and now that you’ve died we can begin what should have been the day you turned fifteen.” The bracelet faded away “Your body has been through so much since the day you were born.” The world around them changed to a burned down barn “Your body was turned into ash at such a young yet due to the location you couldn’t return fully as you would never make it on your own.” The time slowly started to change and soon the ashes started to form. “And then the magic within felt a life that would help you survive.” The ashes formed into a baby that began to cry “You were reborn and taken, that’s when I was disconnected from you when they placed that bracelet on you.”

“W-Why are you showing me this?”

Everything faded and they returned to the field of flowers “I am showing you this because you’ve died twice now, your first death kept you dead for some time till you could be taken somewhere safe.” Before them Celestia and Luna stood “Your body being ashes kept you from being your true age.”

“W-What? M-My try age?” Matthew asked, his mind full of confusion.

“You should be older than Luna yet you are the same age as one Applejack.” Applejack soon stood before him “Fate must have wanted you two to meet.”

“I’m so confused! H-How am I alive!?” His confusion turned to panic.

“Take a deep breath, I can’t throw all this knowledge on you all at once, just a few here and there till your mind can fully understand what’s going on.” He said as he placed his hand on Matthew’s shoulder “The magic you feel is a mixture of our family's magic and what is known as the seal's magic.” The world changed yet again and the two stood before a large vault “This vault holds a powerful magic that cannot be unleashed, for now this vault is the only thing keeping you alive.”

Matthew looked at the large vault door “H-How can this keep me alive.”

“His name is Discord.” The door opened to show a creature sealed with chains “A chaos God that used to cause chaos, with the help of a Goddess we imprisoned him within this vault and took on the role as the key.” The door closed “His magic flows through the key allowing us to live till we pass the key on to our heir.”

“S-So I have his magic?”

“It’s not his full magical power, just enough to allow us to be stronger and to live a long life if needed.” The world changed to the field once again “With the bracelet now removed you are now feeling the magic of both sides, which isn’t good.” The man pulled out his sword and stuck it into the dirt. “Not too far is an old castle built by the ponies, it holds this very sword.” The sword started to glow. “The sword will help you channel your magic as our magic is known as mage knight magic.”

Matthew looked at the sword before him “I-I’m not worthy of this.” Matthew felt a hand on his shoulder.

“You are worthy, every son of the Dura is worthy of this sword.” Matthew looked at the man “Find the sword, learn your magic, fate has plans for you.” The world slowly started to fade. “Don’t be afraid, Luna shall guide you.” Those last words gave Matthew a bit of hope.

Unknown Temple.

Solar Heart stood inside an unknown temple, strange markings all over the walls as a figure stood in the middle of the unknown chamber “You sent for me?”

“This world, it’s shifting the balance of power.” The figure said as they slowly turned to reveal to be a centaur “Being imprisoned here I can still feel the power shifting.”

“If this is all you wanted to tell me, then there was no point in me traveling across the sea-” The king's words were cut off by the Centaur “You know me better than to waste your time for a visit.” He said chuckling “Do you remember the day I felt the human king's magic? I have felt it slowly returning and right before you arrived I felt it again and much stronger.”

“The boy is dead, the magic you are feeling is just a memory.” King said with a huff.

“Oh, this magic is stronger, the boy lived somehow.” The Centaur slowly moved towards one of the seals and stopped before the King “Your throne is in danger and I’m willing to help you.”

“How?” Solar asked.

“When you were first brought to me, you were being groomed to be a vessel for the king to take.” The Centaur moved back towards the middle of the seal “However his soul was weak from his centuries of jumping bodies.” He slowly turned around and looked at Solar “Since that day I have fixed that issue, find a stallion you like, bring him here and you will be able to rule without worry.”

“You wish for me to marry my daughter?” Solar asked with a slight disgust “And if I switch bodies how can I even arrange such a thing when I’m in the other stallion's body?”

“Your soul will be split in two, allowing you to be in two places.” The Centaur said with a smile “Once you are ready to be one your old body shall rest and you will be king.”

“What you suggest, it’s wrong, me marry my daughter? Our kids will be.”

“Normal, your in a new body, no worries about little monsters of incest spawns.” The Centaur made his way over towards Solar “If you wish to stop this kid you’ll need a new body young and strong and I’m the only one that can grant that, it’s what I did for the old king before his soul couldn’t handle it anymore.”

“I have two stallions in mind as my daughters husband and future king yet they don’t yield the darkness I need.” Solar said.

“Pick the one you like and bring them to me.”

Solar nodded, “I shall return in three days.” Solar left the temple leaving the Centaur alone.

“Are you sure you wish to do this again?” A hooded figure asked.

“I am sure, his magic is strong, once the key is found I shall take his magic and the magic of all.” A smile spread across his lips “War is coming.”

The hooded figure faded away leaving the Centaur alone once again.

To Be Continued

Author's Note

Oh look I have somewhat returned :trollestia: Sorry for the long wait life has been keeping super busy. I'm still slowly writing in the spare time I have. Hopefully you all enjoy! :scootangel:

Chapter 8. Connections.

Chapter 8.

The moonlight filled Matthew’s room as Luna still tried to enter Matthew’s mind in hopes of waking him up from his slumber yet each attempt made her angry. She was meant to protect him and she is failing.

“If you were chosen to use the magic of the sun and moon you would be powerful enough to save him from this magic.” A voice whispered deep within Luna’s mind.

“I don’t need Celestia’s magic, the magic of the night is all I need.”Luna snapped back at the voice as she was still using her magic to try and enter Matthew’s mind.

“Yet here you are still struggling to even enter his mind, if you would just listen to me and take the power of the sun you could save him.”

“I TOLD YOU TO LEAVE ME ALONE!!!” Luna used her magic to force the voice back from where it came from.

“You can’t keep me back forever Luna, you know what you need me to do!” The voice faded from Luna’s mind and a silence soon washed over her. She opened her eyes to see Matthew still sound asleep. She knew deep down maybe if she had been given both magical powers of the sun and moon maybe she could have maybe broken through this magical barrier. Yet she knew those dark thoughts were not going to help her. With a deep sigh of frustration she sat back in her chair with no idea how to truly help Matthew.

Luna felt something touch her hand and she looked to see Matthew’s hand and she looked up to see Matthew staring at her “H-Hey.”

“You're awake!” She pulled Matthew into a strong bear hug which shocked Matthew. He smiled and hugged her back.

“Sorry for worrying you all.” He said fighting back the tears as he felt guilty for putting them in a worry state.

Luna pulled away and looked at him “Don’t you be sorry for what happened.” She said, wiping the tears from her eyes “What happened?”

“Oh, um, how am I doing that spell thing.” Matthew said out loud which caused Luna to blink and then “Oh right.” He closed his eyes and a spark of magic flew into Luna and soon she heard everything Matthew had heard “Saves us time he said.”

Luna shook her head then looked back at Matthew “Wow, so much information to process.” Her mind had so many questions “Your long death.” She looked away from Matthew as she thought of the right words “Make sense why you seem younger than me, I was wondering about that just figured it was because of you being a half breed, not much is known about the lifespan of a half human/half pony.” Luna stood up and moved towards the window her mind still in deep thought “Sword the old man spoke of is in the Everfree forest, it was the first Pony kingdom before the forest became darken by a magical effect that to this day no pony could figure out what had happened to the place.” She looked back at Matthew “There are many things still within those walls, finding the sword will be hard but not impossible, we’ll leave first thing in the morning.”

Matthew slowly moved out of bed, his body still stiff. “We should go now.”

“You're in no condition to leave right now Matthew.” Luna said making her way over towards Matthew and stopping him “Night in the forest isn’t smart, there are things that lurk inside and will hunt us, best we go in the morning.” She used her magic to keep him from moving. “You still need to rest.” Matthew felt his body being moved back to laying down “I can still sense your body is stiff and needs rest.”

“A-Alright, I’ll wait.” He said letting Luna lay him down “I-I’m feeling a bit thirsty can I have some water?”

Matthew looked out the window and slowly sat up, he thought about bolting out the window yet knew he needed to listen to Luna. After a little while Luna returned with some water and handed him the cup, he smiled and thanked her for the water “Trust in Luna and trust in yourself Matthew, you will help her through the darkness within her.” The man’s voice echoed through his mind. “What darkness is within her, how can I help her through that?” He thought to himself as he looked at Luna, he couldn’t even tell there was something dark lurking within her.

Celestia sat in her room with papers scrolled about and her eyes were beginning to become sore from all this reading “How’s it going?” A soft voice said, causing Celestia to jump “Sorry sweetie, didn’t mean to scare you.” Moonlight said walking over to her daughter.

“All these laws and regulations are a lot.” She said using her magic to place some of the papers to the side “Most of them I don’t want to sign as it just harms more humans then helps them.”

“That’s your father making things harder for you.” Moonlight said placing her hand on her shoulder “A letter arrived from Luna today, she’s staying a few days in Ponyville then plans on heading to the human ruins to explore a bit there.”

“Interesting she’s going there after sending Twilight there, wonder if she found the vault?” Celestia thought “That’s good she’s safe, hopefully her trip to the human ruins goes smoothly.”

“Knowing your sister, she will find the most fun path that has all the twists and turns.” She said chuckling “Remember when she got lost? We searched for her for hours and she could have taken the easy path instead she went down the path full of mud and water.” She said, chuckling at the memory.

“I was so worried about her, yet dad felt no worry.” Celestia said, angry with her father.

“He worried in his own way.” Her mother said knowing he did worry about his daughter.

Solar Heart looked at the two stallions before him, his trusty Royal of the guards Shining Armor and his second in command Glitter Armor “Shining Armor stay here and keep watch over this area till Glitter Armor and I return.” Solar Heart said moving towards the door.

“As you wish sir!” Shining Armor said saluting.

Solar had Glitter follow him into a wagon and the two set off to an unknown location.

“If you don’t mind me asking your grace, why am I needed?” Glitter asked.

“You will see in due time.” Solar said with a smile.

Twilight used her magic to once again light up the room.

“Oooooo this is such a big door!” Pinkie Pie said, looking at the large vault door.

“You said this symbol was glowing?” Blaze asked as he looked at the symbol for infinity.

“Yeah, then it stopped after an hour, as if something triggered it.” Twilight said as she brought the light a bit closer to the symbol “If we can figure out how it was triggered maybe we can open this door up.”

“Are we sure we wanna open it?” Pinkie Pie asked “Why would anyone build something with as you said strong powerful magic to keep everypony out? What if this thing is holding the curse for an evil birthday party!?”

“Whatever is inside it was built to last.” Blaze said as he placed his hand on the door “This magic it’s something that can unlock everything that was taken from us.”

The two looked at Blaze as he kept his hand on the vault door “We’ll get that knowledge back Blaze.” Twilight opened up her book “So far I have figured out a couple of the symbols, Chaos takes control.” She closed her book “That’s just a rough translation, however maybe it’s speaking of the chaos the humans had when the war broke out?”

“Well you are better at this than me, I’m going to make some food and make sure no one’s sneaking up on us.” Blaze said moving away from the vault door “You two take it easy.” He walked up the steps leaving the two alone.

“I’m going to explore some more, good luck Twi!” Pinkie said, jumping away leaving Twilight alone to continue her work.

Blaze walked through the empty halls when Pinkie Pie appeared next to him “Hey! So about what you said, are you mad at us ponies?” Pinkie asked.

“If I were mad at you, I wouldn’t have joined the children of the night.” Blaze said, still walking. “However yes, I am mad at the past ponies for what they did, it’s up to us to fix the mistakes of the past and move forwards.” He said with a little bit of hope they’ll find a way to free all of humankind from the chains.

“That’s good, for a moment I thought you were mad at us.” She said with a big smile “Once we have the supplies I will throw you an awesome party!”

Blaze chuckled “Thank you Pinkie Pie.”

Applejack slowly awoke from her slumber, her mind still hazy from the dream she had. Her heart felt a tug as the image of Matthew appeared in her mind smiling. Applejack flitched a bit at the image, seeing his lifeless body on the ground hurt her, then that strange magic brought him back yet he still wasn’t awake. She let out a painful sigh as she got out of bed. The sun was just starting to peak out “Ah better get cleaned up and go check in on Matt. Hopefully he’s alright.” She thought as she made her way into her bathroom and began getting ready for the day. Big Mac had kindly taken over the family reunion role in running things while she dealt with Matthew.

The warm water washed over her waking her body up from its slumber, and her mind was focused on Matthew and his lifeless body. She sighed as she let the warm water run down her face “Ah never want ta see him like that ever again….. Will he even be the same after dyin’?” She thought as her eyes opened up and she was staring at the ceiling. She fought the thoughts out of her mind.

After a quick shower Applejack left her bathroom and walked over towards her closet with a towel wrapped around her and her hair wrapped in a towel. She grabbed the clothes she planned on wearing today and began to dress. With everything nicely on she grabbed her fathers hat off her nightstand and placed it on her head and looked at herself in the mirror, the bags under her eyes showed she hadn’t had much sleep “Once Ah know Matt is alright I’ll get a goodnight sleep.”She thought as she made her way out of her room and down the stairs. Some of her family were still asleep yet there were a few that weren’t, some of her cousins were in the kitchen drinking ale and playing poker with one another. Applejack rolled her eyes, their party didn’t even end at the crack of dawn. She made her way out of the house and towards the guest house and the smell of pancakes filled her nostrils and her heart skipped a beat.

The smell of pancakes filled the whole house and which caused Luna to stir from her slumber and she moved down the stairs to see Matthew cooking breakfast “Morning, I-I hope you like pancakes, oatmeal, and hashbrowns.” He said with a smile.

“You didn’t have to make breakfast Matthew.” She said, looking at the breakfast before her, “This does look yummy.” She took a seat “Where did you learn to cook like this?”

“Sawdust taught me a few things and the rest I learned on my own.” He said as he placed a plate in front of her and a cup of coffee. He turned and went back to cooking.

Luna took a bite and her eyes widened as the food tasted delicious. “You are a master chef.” She said taking another bite.

“It’s not my best work.” He said as he flipped a pancake.

The door opened and the two could see Applejack stepping inside. Her eyes landed on Matthew and before Matthew could say hello or good morning he felt her hug him “Ya alright!” He heard Applejack say, as she held him tight. Matthew didn’t know what to do or say at this moment. He felt her pull away as he then felt Applejack touch his face “Ya are alright right?” Applejack asked with concern in her voice.

“I-I am.” He said.

Applejack smiled and removed her hand from his face and then looked at Luna “So, what did ya find out? What spell helped him awaken?” Applejack was now facing Luna asking her questions.

“Nothing I did worked, however.” Luna looked at Matthew who was standing there still in a bit of shock from the hug and worry Applejack had. “Matthew, why don’t you use that spell to help fill her in.”

Applejack blinked in confusion “Spell?” Applejack looked at Matthew who snapped out of his daze.

“O-Oh right, um give me your hand.” Matthew said as he reached out for her hand and she did as she was told. Next thing she knew she had seen everything Matthew had seen with the mystery man. Applejack found herself now sitting in a chair as her mind was spinning “S-Sorry, you okay?” Matthew asked, showing his own worries about her.

“A-Ah’m fine Matt.” Applejack said with a weak smile “T-That’s just a lot ta take in.”

“Yeah.” Matthew said as he went over to the stove and grabbed a plate of food for Applejack and placed it in front of her “Here, this should at least help.”

“Ya didn’t have to make this for me.” Applejack said as she looked at the food and her stomach let out a growl, which caused her cheeks to turn slightly pink which made Matthew chuckle.

“Eat up.” Matthew said, returning to his cooking.

“So you're now caught up, he’s pretty much immortal and now we have to train him fully.” Luna said, taking another bite of her food.

“So that vault ya sent Twi ta check out was a bust then?” Applejack took a bite of her food while she asked the question.

“Yeah, I’ve sent her a letter this morning informing her of everything so far, if anything human knowledge is out there, it’s not in Avalon.” Luna sighed a bit as she took a sip of her coffee.

“So now what?” Applejack asked as she looked over at Matthew who was flipping some pancakes.

“The same plan we already had before, however, we’ll train him here in Ponyville.” Luna said as Matthew looked at the two “I hope it’s fine if we stay here to train him.”

“Of course it’s fine, Ah ain’t gonna kick Matt out of here.” Applejack looked over at Matthew who was placing some food on a plate and making his way over to the table “Sawdust wanted him in a safe place and there ain’t no safer place than here.” After what had happened yesterday Applejack vowed to make sure nothing hurts Matthew again “Ya can stay here in the guest house as long as ya need to.”

“I’ll gladly pay rent.” Luna said as she finished off her plate and was now sipping her coffee.

“Ya don’t need ta, Matthew here already covered the cost.” She said slapping Matthew’s back a bit causing him to blink in confusion.

“Huh? When?” Matthew asked, confused.

“The picture ya made me, that covered the cost.” She said with a grin.

“If you say so.” Luna said smiling at the two “Fate really wanted these two to meet.” Luna thought as she watched the two.

“I’m going to find Nigh Fire, you eat up Matthew then we’ll head to the forest in search of your sword.” Luna said, as she stood grabbing her dishes and placing them in the sink and leaving the two alone.

The two sat in silence for a while till Applejack broke it “So, how are ya feelin’?” Applejack asked, looking at him. She could see his eyes looking at his food.

“T-To be honest,” He slowly looked up at Applejack “I don’t know how I feel.” He could see she was looking at him and he kept his eyes locked on hers “So much has happened, and now here I am, an immortal human with no idea what I’m going to do.” He looked away and ate his food. He didn’t know if he could do what was being asked of him, he was born a slave, yet now he’s supposed to change things.

He felt a hand touch his hand and he looked to see Applejack’s hand “Whatever happens ya got support from all of us.” She said giving him a bright smile and without thinking kisses his cheek causing the two to blush “A-Ah better go check on how everyone one else is doin’, Big Mac is takin’ over things for awhile and Ah just wanna make sure ”

“I’m sorry, I know this reunion is meant to be a relaxing and fun time and now you have to deal with all of this. ” He said feeling bad.

“Now ya don’t worry about that, Ah’ve had so much fun already with ya and now we have a lot ta do. ” She said getting up and patting the back of Matt’s back “Ya take it easy alright? Ah’ll be taggin’ along with ya’ll when ya head into the Everfree Forest.” With that she left Matt alone with his thoughts.

He placed a hand to his cheek where Applejack left her kiss and he slightly smiled “What is this I am feeling?”

“That my dear boy, is what is called feelings of affection or as some call it, a crush that can lead into love.” He heard the first king’s voice say within his mind.

Matt blinked a few times at the king’s words “I-I’m in love?”

“It would seem.”

Twilight, Night Shimmer, Pinkie Pie, Blaze and Spike all sat by the fire as Twilight used her magic to place the last of her books in her bag “We now know what the vault is thanks to Luna and this information she found, it’s a cage keeping a chaos God locked away which explains some of what I translated.”

“While the vault is a dead end for knowledge however.” Night Shimmer brought out a book “I did find this hidden within a secret room, it’s human made and I’ve translated a bit of it, the book holds some spells I’ve never seen.”

“Mind if I take a look at it?” Twilight asked.

Night nodded and allowed Twilight to take the book. She skimmed through the book and her eyes lit up “You are right! They are spells!” She looked at Night “We’ll have to study this back in Ponyville, I have so many books that can help us translate and even understand some of these spells.”

“How can two wanted criminals hide in Ponyville?” Blaze asked as he took some food from his bag to snack on.

“Applejack has a farm, I’m sure you all can stay there, I can bring my research there so we don’t have to worry about anyone watching us since I’ve been hanging out there before.” Twilight said hoping that will make them feel better.

“There is also the old castle ruins.” Night said “We can easily setup defenses to keep the timber wolves out and any other critters from showing up in the castle.”

“Then you two will go to Ponyville?” Pinkie Pie asked.

Night Shimmer looked at Blaze who nodded “That would be a yes.”

“We’ll leave first thing in the morning.” Twilight said with a smile.

Luna looked over at Night Fire who looked like she hadn’t slept all night.

“You’re lucky he got away before you caught up to him, hurting him isn’t how we operate.” Luna said looking at Night Fire who kept her eyes away from her.

“It was my job to protect him, Luna, and that son of a bitch killed Matthew and I failed to protect him.” Night Fire fists were clenched as the rage in her eyes filled her soul. She felt Luna’s hand touch her shoulders.

“I know, I want nothing more than to harm him as well but if we do what he did we are no better.” Night Fire looked at Luna who she could see was angry as well “Now we will train Matthew to protect himself and we’ll guide him.”

With a heavy sigh Night Fire looked away from Luna and down the dirt path “I won’t fail you again.”

“We both failed Night Fire, let’s not fail him again together.” With that Luna removed her hand from her shoulder “I shall handle taking Matthew to the old castle, you need rest and the Everfree Forest isn’t much of a threat to me.”

“If you're sure, I can stay awake longer to help protect you both.” Night Fire said looking back at Luna.

“The element of honesty will be with us, she won’t leave Matthew alone.” Luna said, chuckling a little.

With a nod and a yawn, Night Fire put her faith in the two and made her way towards the house and found her bed to sleep on.

Matthew watched as Night Fire walked right past him with a slight wave and he waved back only to watch her disappear to her room for the day. Luna soon appeared in the room with him as he was finishing up cleaning the dishes from breakfast “D-Did she find him?” Matt asked, knowing why she was tired.

“She missed him by a few minutes.” Luna said looking at Matt “Once you’re done we’ll be going into the forest, I have a bow outside and some arrows as I’ve heard you're pretty good with a bow.”

“I’m not the best but can handle it just fine.” He said placing the last of the dishes away and drying his hands.

The door opened up and Applejack stepped inside “Are ya all ready?” She asked.

“Yup.” The two said together.

After a few hours of walking the three stood before the old ruins of the castle of the ponies. Luna noticed some of the towers were still intact while others were caved in.

“Now, this will be like finding a needle in a haystack, Applejack, Matt, you two search the west wing and I’ll search the east.” Luna said looking at the two “Does that sound like a plan?”

“Ya sure you’ll be alright by yourself?” Applejack asked.

“I have my magic to protect me.” Luna said with a wave of her hand a light blue magic moved. Luna used her magic to summon two lanterns and handed them to Applejack and Matthew “Just in case you need a light.” They took them and the three went their separate ways.

Matt and Applejack walked together through the halls, sunlight lit their path, they came to a large room with books on the floor, some ruined, others still on the shelves “Ah don’t think the sword will be in here.” Applejack said, looking around.

“Maybe it’s a pen sword.” He said, cracking a smile which caused Applejack to chuckle.

“Now ya got jokes.” She said playfully punching his shoulder. This made Matt smile more.

The two looked around the room and found another hallway leading to another area and made their way down it. The hallway slowly grew darker and they pulled out their lanterns to light the way. As they walked the floor clicked and the two were sent falling down a tunnel, Matt without thinking wrapped his arms around Applejack, with a slam Matthew hit the ground hard with Applejack on top of him he felt sharp pain rush through his body “Matt! Are ya alright?” Applejack asked as she quickly removed herself from him and was kneeling above him.

“I-I’m alright, J-Just need a moment.” He said huffing and grunting in pain.

“Ya don’t sound alright.” Applejack slowly helped Matthew up and her eyes went wide as she saw some blood on the back of his neck, she saw the black mist before slowly healing the wounds “You could have died again, ya can’t do that.”

“I wasn’t trying to die.” He said looking at Applejack who had a few tears slowly escaping her eyelids and rolling down her cheeks, he reached out and slowly wiped the tears away “I didn’t want you getting hurt, I completely forgot I couldn’t die.”

She wanted to give him a good smack yet resisted the urge “Ah don’t care if ya can’t die, Ah don’t want ta see ya harmed.”

“I’ll try and not too, I just wanted to make sure you were safe.” She helped him slowly get to his feet and the two looked around the room.

“Ya don’t have ta risk your life to keep me safe.” She said looking into his eyes and he looked deep into her.

“I can’t promise that, if I can protect you I will.” He reached for her hand and gave it a light squeeze “You have a family that needs you, I can’t die, you can.”

Applejack squeezed his hand back and sighed “Ah just don’t want ta see ya die again.”

“I can try and not to die, just can’t promise it.” He said hoping this would be fine for her.

She gave him a light smile “You try ya hardest then, if ya die once on me Ah’ll smack ya good.”

He gave her a light smile back “I will try my hardest.” With their talk done the two picked up their lanterns.

“Now, where are we?” Applejack asked out loud as she looked around the room and noticed they were inside a jail cell and she sighed “Well, this isn’t good.” Applejack said looking at the bar doors in front of her “We are pretty much stuck here, hopefully Luna can find her way down here to us.”

Matt walked up to the bars and lightly pushed the bars and they fell to the ground with a loud thud that went through the whole room “I think someone forgot to lock the door.” He said chuckling which caused her to chuckle.

“I’m sure the whole castle heard that thud.” Applejack said stepping out into the hall “Ah think this is the old dungeon area.” Applejack looked at Matt “Let’s try and not fall into another hole.”

The two walked together side by side both keeping their lanterns high allowing them to watch out for traps. As they walked Applejack felt their hands brush and Matt felt their hands brush as they walked as well. He didn’t know what possessed him to, he reached out and grabbed her hand and held her hand in his. Applejack didn’t say a single word as they walked hand in hand however if anyone could see their faces they were red as tomatoes.

Meanwhile With Luna.

Luna found herself in the armory with old swords, shields and armor laying around on the ground. “None of these are his swords match what was shown.” Luna said as she tossed another sword to the side. Floating beside her was a magical image of the sword shown in Matthew’s mind floating in the air “What would my ancestor have done with a human sword?” She thought for a moment when a loud thud rang through the whole castle causing her to jump up “What in the world was that!?”

Back with Applejack and Matthew.

Applejack and Matthew stood within a large room filled with human artifacts, from armor and swords to even written books. Applejack held one book in her hand as she read through the book “This is ya history Matt.” She handed Matthew the book and he took it.

“I’m sure your friend is going to have a field day here.” He said as he looked through the book. The words before him weren’t equestrian and in a language he’s never seen before “I guess I’ll have to learn how to read these now.”

“One thing at a time.” Applejack said giving him a pat on the back “Ya first need ta learn that sword of yours.”

“It has to be here somewhere.” He said as he placed the book back where Applejack pulled it out from and the two walked around the room with their lanterns keeping the room lit.

A light glow Matthew spotted coming from a box nearby and he opened it up and found the sword the old king showed him and he lifted it up, it was still within the old holster. He felt the flow of magic within him connect with the sword and he felt the sword old magic connecting with his “Good, the sword is now connected with you and I can teach you what I know.” He heard the king's voice say within his head.

“Um, are you always watching?” Matt asked the king.

“Not always, I felt the magical connection and wanted to inform you.” The king said “Don’t worry, I’m not watching you try and get close with the young mare, your love life is our own. However if you wish for help I do know a few things about love.”

He felt the king slowly fade from his mind and he looked over at Applejack. He felt his heart beat a little faster as she looked at her “Am I in love with her?” He thoughtas he held up the sword towards her “Found it.”

She smiled and walked over towards him “Ya sure this is the right one?” She asked, examining the sword.

“King said it was and I felt it connected with this magic I had.” He said as he looked at the sword. Applejack took the sword and used the straps to place it around his waist.

“We’ll have ta fix the straps a bit, however it looks good on ya.” She said with a big smile on her and he felt his cheeks heat up. The two were close to one another, he was getting lost in her emerald eyes.

“My, I see you two found a secret room.” The two turned to see Luna standing near a stairwell, her lantern shining bright. Luna could see a sword strapped to Matthew’s side “Is that the sword?”

“It is.” Applejack said stepping away from Matt with such red on her face Luna was grinning.

“That is good, what else did you two find?” Luna asked, lifting her lantern up looking at the many books in front of her.

“Oh, we found a lot of old books that are written in the human language which is Matt’s history.” Applejack said as Luna lifted a book from a shelf and looked at the pages within.

“You are right, I wonder why these are down here.” She closed the book and placed it in her bag “I’ll have to come back here later and collect a few of these books, for now I’ll just take one.”

“Maybe this is a trophy room.” Matt said looking at each one of the items around the room, from the books to the armor suits each item looked like something brought here to be shown off to someone collecting them.

“This was once a large pony kingdom, chances are this place was made to laugh at the humans who could never reach this room.” Luna said looking at Matt as she frowned a bit “I’m sure Twilight will be coming in here and digging through the many books.” With that said she looked back towards the exit “Let’s get going, we have what we came for and I don’t wish to be here when the sun goes down.”

The two nodded and followed Luna out of the room and up the stairs.

Unknown Temple.

Sparks of lighting wrapped around Glitter Armor’s body as his soul being removed from his body and being absorbed into the Centaurs mouth and the seals around him were shining bright. With a flick of the Centaurs hand Solar felt a part of his soul slowly remove from him and enter the now empty vessel. It was hard at first for Solar to control two bodies “It will take time however you will have the full memories of this young stallion’s memory which will allow you to act like the stallion till you are ready to fully take over.” The Centaur said with an evil grin.

“W-What happened to his soul?” The two split Solar’s asked.

“I have absorbed his soul.” He continued to grin.

“You should rest for a bit, your bodies will need a bit to adjust to what I have done.”

Solar’s two bodies moved towards the side and he took a seat “This is all strange, it’s as if I’m using mind magic.”

“It’s a bit like that.” The Centaur said keeping his eyes on the king “As time goes on you’ll be able to be two separate being’s and one at once.”

The king blinked a bit “This is weird, seeing through two sets of eyes, it’s making my mind spin.”

“Like I said, rest for a bit and focus on your mind.” The Centaur moved back to the middle of the seal “I shall be having this mage be by your side through your process.”

Before the king was a hooded figure he couldn’t see the face of “I shall help you through this, clear your minds and feel your souls.”

Sweet Apple Acres.

Applejack took a seat by the warm fire. Her female family members were sitting by drinking ale and playing some music which made her smile slightly. “So, that Matt fella, what’s his story?” Applejack looked to see her cousin Apple Fritter sitting there with a smile on her face as she took a sip from her ale.

“All Ah know is he’s been through a lot.” Applejack said as she was handed a bottle of ale.

“For a human he’s pretty cute.” Applejack looked at a mare with short green hair and her blue fur was a bit dirty from working in the fields. “I have only ever seen some of the older humans who age like bad wine.”

“Now that’s just rude Apple Butter, just like we ponies we all age like bad wine if we don’t take good care of ourselves.” Apple Fritter said, poking Apple Butter cheek.

“Still, he’s a looker.” Apple Butter said, taking a sip of her ale “If only it wasn’t against the law for humans to date ponies, I’m sure he would sweep all mares off his feet.”

“I’m sure he might accept offers for some fun time.” Apple Fritter said with a grin “I know a few places to the north that host human parties where mares and colts can be with humans.”

“Those places treat humans badly.” Applejack said cutting into the talks “The humans don’t even have a choice half the time, they are forced into those kinds of acts against their will.”

“I-I haven’t been to those places I’ve just heard about them.” Apple Fritter said.

“Ah know, ya savin’ yer self for that one true love.” Applejack said, teasing her cousin.

“What about you? Have you been to those places?” Apple Butter asked, looking at her cousin.

“No, Ah’ve heard everything about these places, they ain’t good fun as some mares and colts claim it to be.” Applejack took a sip from her ale as she remembered hearing about brothels that had humans being forced into sexural acts. Many who were saved from these places were never the same. “If ya ever go near those places remember they aren’t happy there.”

“Was Matt a rescue there?” Apple Butter asked, taking a sip from her bottle of ale.

“He hasn’t said.” Applejack now wondered if he’s been in a place like that on his long journey. Then the memory of their hands holding flashed in her mind. “The trauma of those brothels leave a long impact on humans, just a single touch will cause them to freak out and have a breakdown.” Twilight's words rang out through her head at the memory “Matt didn’t hesitate holdin’ my hand, he might have not been through such a thing.” The warmth of Matt’s hand appeared in her mind and her cheeks began to heat up which caused the two mares sitting by the fire to look at her with a puzzle look which Applejack quickly shook her head of the thoughts “A-Anyways, how’s everythin’ goin’? Has Big Mac been? Ah hope he’s handlin’ everythin’ alright.”

“Granny’s been on his tail for awhile, however, he’s doing a good job.” Apple Fritter said taking a sip from her ale and then a grin appeared on her face “Are ya busy courting this human? Is that why you're taking time away from things?”

Applejack’s already redden face was now showing even brighter from the ale’s effects “W-What, no! Matt just lost someone who was like family ta him, Ah just want ta make sure he’s alright.” That was part of the truth while the other he wanted to make sure he was safe after he died once already. She took a sip from her ale trying to force the memories of their hand holding.

“You can’t deny you have feelings for him.” Apple Fritter said moving closer towards her cousin and keeping her eyes on her “I saw the way you two danced that night, the way you two connected was something I’ve only ever seen in those old fairy tales.”

Applejack kept her eyes off her cousin and looked at the fire before her. “What connection and to who?” The three girls looked to see a rainbow hair and blue fur girl with wings flapping a bit behind her “Sorry I’m late, been busy.” She said while taking a seat by Applejack “What did I miss? Did you find a colt?” Applejack noticed a bit of jealousy on her face. Which caught her off guard.

“Applejack here has a crush on the human Matt here.” Apple Butter said with a grin “She just won’t admit it.”

“You like Matt? When did this happen?” Dash asked, her eyes narrowed on her.

Applejack blinked “It’s not what ya think Dashie, these two are mistaken.”

“Then what was that dance? You two were about to kiss at the end when that poor mare fell and passed away.” Apple Fritter said remembering everything that happened that night.

“You need to tell me everything!” Dash said staring down Applejack who in return was confused.

“W-Why is she actin’ like this?” Applejack thought while now surrounded by her cousins and her friend talking about a crush she had on Matthew and Dash was staring her down as if something was taking away her wings “W-What do Ah do?”

To Be Contunied.

Author's Note

A longer chapter like I wanted, as always enjoy! :ajsmug:

Chapter 9. Feelings, Letters, Safe.

Chapter 9.

Matthew sat on a hay bale in the barn up in the loft with his sketchbook in hand. He was sketching out a memory from earlier today, Applejack looking through the pages of a book deep in thought which he wanted to capture. The moon was shining bright across the land giving those who enjoy the nights embrace a light within the darkness “This is a beautiful sight.” Matt turned his head and spotted the king standing there looking out at the world. Matt blinked a few times, while he could see the human king standing there looking out of the barn and out on to the world he was seeing as if he wasn’t here. “I hope you don’t mind, I wanted to see this world again with my own eyes and not through yours.” He said looking over at Matt.

“H-How are you here?” He asked.

“I am a spirit, the magic within you allows me to take on this form and let me be out of your body.” The king looked away, “No one else can see me but you, unless you allow others to see me.”

“How long has it been since you’ve been out?” Matt asked, looking back out onto the land.

“Far too long, each generation has been suppressed for so long, I’ve been stuck within the void for so long.” A shooting star flew across the sky “Now I can see the world without looking through the void.” He kept his eyes out watching the night sky “Instead of sketching out this scene before you, you are sketching Applejack back at the library.” The king slowly turned his head towards Matthew who he saw the young man blushing “If you wish to talk about it I am here to help you.”

“She’s done so much for me, since I’ve been here she’s treated me as a pony, free.” He looked back at the sketch of Applejack and felt his heart race a bit as he remembered them walking hand in hand in the halls.

“Then why keep your feelings to yourself?” The king asked.

“What can I give her?” He placed his sketchbook to the side and looked back at the king “I-I’ve lived my whole life enslaved, I’m uneducated, I’m also now royalty, can I even give her what she wants?” He looked outside at the night sky, he could feel a heavy sadness fill his heart as he sat there “I’m just human.”

“A human who will break chains.” The king said with a smile on his face “Don’t sell yourself short, you can offer her a lot Matthew.” The king could see a blue mare pulling Applejack towards the barn and he cracked a smile “You should pick being happy Matthew, Applejack is that one that makes you happy.”

The barn doors flew open from below the two and they heard the doors slam shut and two voices could be heard, Matthew recognized one as Applejack while the other he didn’t recognize.

“Now tell me everything I’ve missed and don’t skip the details on why you like Matthew.” The mare said, Matthew blinked at those words as he stayed on the hay bale.

“A lot has happened, sit down here.” Applejack said taking a seat on a hay bale and Dash did the same. With a sigh Applejack spoke “We found out Matt is royalty, his mother is Moonlight and his father was a human who’s bloodline was that of a king.”

“Wait? How did you guys find this out?” Dash asked surprised.

“Luna arrived ta inform us, Moonlight saw his eye and it clicked he was her son.” Applejack said as she looked away from Dash and towards the barn doors “That all was told ta him right after Sawdust sadly passed away.” Another sigh “After that her son came to get Matt and,” Her eyes lowered as the memory of that day came flooding back to her mind and the tears were starting to form “H-He killed him, Ah found Matt dead.” Tears rolled down her cheeks and fell to the ground “W-What Ah saw next, a strange magic washed over Matt’s body and he was breathin’ again.” She wiped a few of the tears on her face “We learned from the magic within him he’s immortal, there’s a lot more but it’s a lot ta explain.”

“That’s a lot that happened in a few days.” Dash said keeping an eye on Applejack who kept her eyes off her friend “What Apple Fritter said, you were about to kiss Matt, are you falling for him?”

“Oh, the dance.” Applejack looked at Dash, her eyes a bit red from her crying “We shared a dance, Ah’ll admit I felt a spark between us, however.” She looked away from her friend and towards the barn doors again “Ah don’t know if we can be, Ah’m a farm pony and he’s a future king.” Applejack laid back on the hay bale looking up at the loft above her, she turned her head to look at Dash who was staring right back at her “Wanna explain why ya got so mad earlier?”

“I thought for a moment I wasn’t your best friend, since you always tell me everything.” Dash said rubbing the back of her neck and feeling stupid for thinking the worst of her friend.

“Ya know Ah wouldn’t tell everyone how Ah’m feelin’ without tellin’ ya first.” Applejack said, chuckling a little.

“I know, but I thought for a moment otherwise.” Dash said, still feeling stupid for thinking it “Now on to Matt, I think you should at least see how you two connect, you already said you felt a spark, don’t let time slip and you both move away from each other.” Dash looked at her friend laying on the hay bale.

Applejack sighed “How am Ah supposed ta talk ta him about how Ah feel?” Applejack asked out loud. She moved her head back to the loft above her.

“Just tell him how you feel, don’t let him slip away, trust me I know, I’ve let someone I loved slip from my hands.” Dash said looking at Applejack with sadness in her eyes.

“Ah’m sorry Dashie for havin’ ya relive that bad time.” Applejack sat up and gave her friend a hug who hugged her back. Applejack knew she had a crush on this stallion and she waited too long to ask him out and he found someone else leaving Dash with a broken heart.

“Enough of these emotions, let’s go get some ale and we can sit and make plans on how you’ll talk with Matt about your feelings.” Dash said, breaking from the hug and helping Applejack to her feet and heading back out the door with her friend.

Matthew the whole time sat there in silence as the two were speaking “S-She has feelings for me!? B-But I’m a human, who could feel anything for me?” Matthew’s mind was racing “You can be loved Matthew, even a mare like her could love you.” The king said, still looking at the moon “You now know she has feelings for you, and from what you just heard she’s going to plan on telling you.”

Matthew now looked at the king “W-What should I do?” He asked, he didn’t really know what to do as this was all new to him.

“You can draw for her, make her a meal, you’ve got a lot of talent.” The king faded allowing Matthew to be alone with his thoughts. He looked at his sketchbook and lifted it up and flipped the page and began to sketch out his feelings.

The Next Morning.

Matthew was found on the ground with his whole body hurting as Night Fire stood with a wooden sword pointed at him “You're slowly getting the hang of it.” Night Fire said as she lowered the sword and took a seat on the ground “If you wish to stop today we can pick back up tomorrow.”

Matthew felt the pain in his body from the beating Night Fire left on him. He knew this sword training would be a hard one and he slowly sat up “I-I can keep going.” He got to his feet with his wooden sword and aimed it at Night Fire.

Night Fire jumped to her feet with a grin on her face. “I remember the last pony I trained, he took my offer to rest after I beat him down, your spirit is strong.” She rushed towards Matthew and the two wooden swords hit each other.

The morning sun turned to the afternoon sun and Matthew again was on the ground, this time his body was in even more pain. His ribs felt like they were cracked or even broken. Night Fire didn’t hold back in their training. “Alright, I think that’s enough training for today.” Night Fire brought out her hand to Matthew. Matthew couldn’t land a single hit on Night Fire yet he at least kept her on her feet. He took her hand and felt the pain within his body sting as he rose to his feet “Why don’t you head back to the house and take a long warm bath to help with the pain.” Matthew nodded “You’ll get the hang of things as we continue to train, I will say you did a lot better than most starting out, not many can put up a defense so quickly.”

“I just hope I can get stronger.” He looked at the bruises on his hand.

“In time you will.” He felt Night place a hand on his shoulder and he looked up at the mare who smiled at him “Now come on, we should get moving before Luna wonders why we aren’t back for lunch.”

With a nod the two made their way back to the farm. When he returned he saw all the apple family out and about. Many of the apple’s playing games and some were drinking. Matthew made his way into the guest house. After grabbing some clothes, He made his way to the bathroom and let himself take a nice long warm bath. The warmth of the water helped his mind and body relax. He let out a sigh “Day one of training and I didn’t land a single hit on her.”

“I didn’t land a single hit on my first try, you shall get there in time.” The king said within Matthew’s mind.

“Still, I thought maybe I could land a hit, I want to get stronger.” He raised his hand out of the water seeing the bruises on his hand. “I want to keep her safe.”

“Keep who safe?” His head snapped to the side to see Luna standing near the door which Matthew forgot to close. He was so focused on just relaxing his body he forgot to make sure the door was closed.

“U-Um, you.” He said trying to sound convincing, which Luna didn’t buy for one minute.

Luna sighed “You can tell me you know, however I’m sure you want to be alone in the tub and not have your sister standing here.” She said chuckling as she grabbed the door handle “When you're done we’ll talk alright?” And with that she closed the door leaving Matt alone.

“You let that slip out.” The king said with a chuckle “Speaking with Luna is a good idea, you do need to bond with her.”

“I know, you told me I need to help her fight the dark-” Matthew’s thoughts were interrupted by the king who now appeared before him “This isn’t about the darkness within her, this is about bonding with your family, she is your sister and wants to connect with you.”

Matthew looked away from the king, he knew he was right, Luna had been trying to connect with him for a while now “I’ll speak with her, I-I do want to get to know my sister.”

The king faded from the world and back to the void “Good, build that bond with your family.”

After a while Matthew finished his bath and dried off and got dressed. He made his way down the stairs and saw Luna sitting at the kitchen table with a cup of tea “Hey.” He said taking a seat across from her.

“Hey.” Luna smiled at her brother as she used her magic to pour a cup of tea for him “Night Fire told me about your training, the fact you got back up over and over shows you are strong will.” Luna took a sip of her tea waiting for Matthew to reply.

Matthew looked at the tea before him “Yet, I’m not strong enough to land a single hit on her.” He slowly looked up at Luna who cracked a smile at him.

“I’ve never been able to land a hit on her, even when I use my magic against her.” Luna placed her tea cup down “I believe one day you will.” Her smile turned into a grin which made Matthew nervous “Now what was that I heard about keeping her safe?”

Matthew looked away from her sister and down at the cup of tea before him “I-I wanna keep Applejack safe.” He slowly looked up at his sister who was still grinning at him “S-She’s done so much for me.”

“It’s also because you like her.” Luna smiled while taking a sip of her tea. Matthew felt his cheeks heat up as he felt Luna’s eyes on him “What do you know of the elements of harmony?” Luna asked.

Matthew blinked a bit and thought for a moment about what she had asked. He really didn’t know much besides they fought Sombra. “Um, all I know is they fought Sombra.”

“Then we will count this as your first History lesson in nobles and the elements of harmony.” Luna used her magic to bring a plate of sandwiches before the two “Now, the elements of harmony are ancient magical items that ponies and humans know little about.” Matthew took a sandwich as he listened to his sister “What we do know is they were discovered after Starswirl The Bearded went missing searching for a way to defeat an unknown evil, one we still know nothing about.” Luna kept her eyes on Matthew who was listening to every word “When the elements of harmony were used to defend us for years, those who gained their magical powers were given noble status, however when the great war started the elements turned to stone.” Luna picked up a sandwich and took a bite “Now, then Princess Cadance appeared right around the time Celestia was born, that was the first sign the Crystal Empire would return. She was raised in the kingdom of Saddle Arabia out of my fathers evil, we knew she would one day come to Equestria to reclaim her home and would need the elements of harmony, of course fate had the same plans, Twilight Sparkle would one day meet Celestia and would be guided to Ponyville to awaken the elements, they aided Princess Cadance and defeated Sombra and were made nobles, however Applejack declined the title she is still one.” Luna took a sip from her tea cup and took another bite of her sandwich.

“So, she’s a noble? But don't want to be one?” Matthew asked, slightly confused.

“Yes, while she won’t accept it, she is of the nobles which gives her any right to marry anyone she choses.” Luna took another bite of her sandwich. Luna felt her horn spark and a letter appeared before her causing her to blink. The seal was that of a crystal heart and her eyes blinked “Queen Cadance?” She looked over at Matt real quick “Sorry Matt, I need to read this.” She opened the letter and began to read, her eyes went wide “No way.”

“W-What is it?” Matthew asked, wondering what was going on.

“Queen Cadance,” She looked at Matthew lowering the letter and looking right at him “She’s abolishing all slavery within her kingdom, all humans will be set free in the coming months.” Matthew blinked, human’s were being set free, within the kingdom of the Crystal Empire. This was amazing news. “She will accept humans who flee from the borders and be protected. They are working on getting things ready before signing the bill, she’s letting me know so I can have my night children set up a base of operations to help ease human’s into normal lifes.”

“T-This may cause a war.” Matthew said thinking about how the king of Equestria would react to the news.

“No, as much as my father will hate this, he can’t risk going after the Crystal kingdom and having an all out war that he can’t win.” Luna placed the letter down “And Saddle Arabia is her ally and if we declare war on the Crystal Empire we will have two wars, that is a risk no ruler would make.” She would have to inform her top generals of this news and set them up in the Crystal Empire to further their goal of helping humans. For now she needs to focus on Matthew.

“S-So are we going to go there?” Matthew asked wondering if they’ll make the trip to the Crystal Empire to work on his training there.

“No, we shall remain here, no point in heading north when we have all we need here.” Luna smiled “And I doubt you wish to leave anyways.” That was true, he didn’t wish to leave. He really did like being on this farm with Applejack. “Before we were interrupted by this letter, we were talking about Applejack.” Luna looked at her brother with a slight smile “Now, why don’t you tell me all about how you feel about her.”

He felt his cheeks heat up as he looked at his sister “W-Well, y-you know I-I like her.” He stuttered, feeling flustered with his feelings.

Luna chuckled, “How will you ask her out?”

Matthew looked down at the tea before him, he didn’t really know how to go about asking her out or if he should “T-That I don’t know.”

Applejack tossed a hay bale out of the loft and it hit the ground with a thud. She felt the sweat fall down her forehead, she let out a sigh “Man, it’s hot today.” Applejack unbuttoned her flannel shirt. She placed her flannel shirt on a hook. Her sports bra kept her somewhat fully clothed. “Good thing Ah’m workin’ alone in the barn ta day, gotta let my fur breathe a bit.” She ran her fingers through her damped fur “Ah wonder how he feels about my fur?” She thought of Matthew as she removed her fingers from her arm and went back to moving hale bales.

“Applejack are you here?” She heard a familiar voice and turned her head to see Matthew stepping into the barn. She was standing up high above Matthew.

“Up here.” Applejack said waving while Matthew looked up and he quickly looked away, his cheeks redder than a tomato. She was puzzled why he was blushing and then a soft wind blew across her fur which felt nice then it dawned on her and her eyes went wide “Oh sorry Matt!” She moved over to where she hung her shirt and quickly put it on and buttoned it up “Ah got hot up here.”

“I-It’s fine, I should have given you a warning I was at the door instead of walking in.” He said, still keeping his eyes down. He heard her jump down from the loft and land not too far from him.

“It’s alright Matt, not like I was naked.” She felt her cheeks blushing as she stood before him “Whatcha need?”

“Oh, um.” He looked at Applejack still blushing “W-Well I want to invite you to dinner tonight.”

Applejack blinked “Dinner? Whatcha got in mind?”

“W-Well I was t-thinking I would make you a dinner.” He said, finding his words.

“Y-Ya wanna make me dinner? What for?” Applejack found this a little puzzling.

Matthew gulped and went with Luna’s plan “Y-You’ll have to find out w-when you come over tonight for dinner.” He might not have fully said what Luna told him if she asked him why he wanted to make her dinner. However he got what she wanted him to say at least.

Applejack blinked in surprise and felt this would be a good chance to use this dinner to at least speak to him about her feelings “Ah’ll see ya tonight then.”

“See you tonight.” With that he left Applejack to her work.

She watched as he left and she couldn’t help but smile. She was looking forward to tonight, now she had to figure out how she would admit her feelings to him and see if maybe they both shared those feelings for one another.

Luna sat in the kitchen watching Matthew go over everything he was going to make for the dinner for Applejack. He asked her to join him, he wanted to get to know her while he worked on cooking and she could tell him about their family. She was happy he was wanting to get to know her. She felt her horn lightly glow and a black letter appeared before her “Who's that from?”

Luna lifted the letter “I do not know, however I do know when these letters arrive they warn me of my father's plans” Luna opened the letter wondering what her father was up to now.

‘Dear Princess Luna.

I hope this letter finds you well, as you know King Solar is overseas. I do not know his plans here, however it isn't good. He won't give details but he will be on the search for a human with a right eye that's black and a red ring around it. He believes this is an heir to the human throne. He won't be back for another week or two if he doesn't hit any nasty weather on the seas. I recommend using this information to locate any human that may have this eye. I have information of Queen Cadance freeing humans soon, I would take the human there if you do find him.

You loyal servant Phantom Knight.

P.S Glitter Armor has been chosen to become Princess Celestia’s husband. I know this will hinder her plans.’

Luna re-read the letter, her mind was racing, someone had ratted out Matthew’s heritage “Wait, they only mentioned his eye not his face.” She looked at Matthew who was busy cutting vegetables. “I'll sit down with him tomorrow and discuss plans. Hiding him here is still the best option yet there is a trail here, Sawdust son will inform anyone he killed Matt in Ponyville which if we don't have a plan ready to lead them away from here we'll be fleaing this area.” She noticed Matthew turn to face her “Seems my father is returning soon, our sister won't be happy as he named Glitter Armor as next King.”

“That’s a bad thing?” Matthew asked.

“Yes, Tia will be forced to sit by a stallion who will rule with hate, however we are working to change that.” Luna looked at her brother knowing he can change a lot once he’s ready. “Let’s go ahead and worry about that another time, you have much more important things to focus on right now, like what you're going to say to Applejack.”

Later That Night.

Applejack wore her best clothes, they weren’t anything fancy but they were nice, a simple flannel shirt a green with a pair of blue jeans and of course her fathers hat sitting nicely on top of her head. Her mane and tail were neatly brushed. She looked herself over in her mirror and let out a sigh “Ah hope Ah look good ta him.” With her outfit on she left her room as she walked down the stairs she could smell dinner being made.

“Ah see yer dressed up, got a date?” Apple Bloom asked, looking at her sister with a grin on her face.

“Ah was invited ta dinner by Matt, he wanted ta thank me for everythin’ even though he doesn’t have ta.” Applejack said, stepping down the final step looking at Apple Bloom with a smile on her face.

“He’s takin’ ya out? Thought humans can’t take ponies ta restaurants?” Apple Bloom asked puzzled.

“Matt ain’t takin’ me out ta eat, he’s makin’ a dinner for us.” Applejack noticed her brother Big Mac stepping into the living room.

“Alright Apple Bloom, go wash up, Applejack is gonna be late if you keep askin’ her questions.” Big Mac said, Apple Bloom let out a groan and left the room leaving the tow alone. Big Mac looked over at Applejack “So, ya like him huh?”

Applejack felt her cheeks heat up a bit “A-Ah do.”

“Ah ain’t against ya datin’ him however ya know you’ll be breakin’ the law by doin’ so.” Applejack could see the concern in his eyes and she still kept her eyes on him.

“Ah’ve already broken many laws, what’s one more to break.” She grinned at her brother who chuckled.

“As long as ya know what yer doin’, just know all Ah want is ya happy.” He gave his sister a smile back “Now ya better run along, ya don’t wanna be late for yer date.” With that he made his way back into the kitchen.

Applejack made her way towards the door, her heart was racing “Ah hope ta night goes the way Ah want it to.” With those last thoughts she left her home.

Celestia sat within the gardens with a cup of tea in her hand, she was enjoying the sun on her fur as she took a sip of her tea “Your highness, we have reports of the rebuilding of Avalon, we have found the vault hidden within and are using the knowledge within to help re-educate the humans.”

“That is good.” Celestia said with a smile.
“So this is what your dreams are about.” A familiar voice said causing Celestia to turn to see Luna standing there with a grin on her face.

“Luna! W-What are you doing here?” Celestia asked, as she got out of her chair and moved towards her sister, a worried feeling rushed through her body “Is everything alright?”

“Not everything.” Luna said with a sigh as she looked at her sister “I have a lot to discuss and now, let’s sit.” Luna said.

Celestia nodded and two sat down at the table “I take it something happened at Avalon?”

“As far as I know nothing has happened there.” Luna kept her eyes on her sister “Mother doesn’t want you to know due to our father, however with the news I have been given I cannot sit by and let you stay in the dark.” With a quick sigh she spoke again “First I’ll tell you the news I received today, Phantom Knight has informed me father has finally picked your husband, Glitter Armor.” Celestia's eyes went wide and was about to speak her protest when Luna raised her hand to stop her “I know, Glitter was one we both knew father didn’t fully trust however, Phantom Knight hasn’t given me no reason not to trust them, now for the second part.” Luna waved her hand and a light blue mist wrapped around the ground and a human now stood before them, Celestia blinked as she noticed one thing odd about this human, it was his right eye, black with a red ring around it.

“Who’s this?” Celestia asked, looking at the human before her.

“His name is Matthew, he is our brother.” Luna said, still watching her sister who turned towards her with a puzzle look on her face “Mother filled me in on the story, this is her son she had with a human slave, he Tia, he is the rightful heir to both thrones.”

Celestia looked back at the human “W-Why didn’t mother tell me this?” She looked back at her sister.

“The less you knew about Matthew the less worried mother was about your safety, she believed father would harm you if you knew anything about Matthew, however, with news of your new husband and the news of our father looking for a human with Matthew’s right eye, we must work together to overthrow this kingdom and rebuild it.” Luna kept her eyes on her sister as she kept her eyes on the human before her.

“Luna, can you bring mother here?” Celestia turned towards her sister “And can you bring Matthew here as well?”

“Why?” Luna asked.

“I wish for the four of us to speak on this together then the two of us planning in the shadows.” She stood up and made her way over towards Matthew’s figure “I also believe he deserves to meet his mother and other sister, can you do it?”
Luna thought for a moment and knew her sister was right “I can, however Matthew is right now on a date.”

Celestia turned to her sister with a shocked look on her face “A date? With who?”

“The Element of Honesty, Applejack.”

Matthew placed the last of the dinner he made down, a lasagna dish with a salad on the side and garlic bread, he looked over at the window open with an apple pie sitting there as that was their dessert. He was happy with the outcome of his meal, he hoped Applejack would enjoy this meal. Luna convinced him to make the apple pie, he was going to make a cake however Luna said an apple pie would have been a safer bet. She was right, an apple pie made with the apples on this farm was a smart move.

There came a knock at the door and Matthew felt his heart race a bit as he moved towards the door. He opened it up to see Applejack standing there, she looked beautiful in his eyes as she smiled at him “Hope Ah’m not too late?”

“Y-Your right on time.” He stuttered a bit as he moved to the side to allow her in “I-I made lasagna and a side salad and garlic bread.” Applejack could smell the meal which made her stomach growl which caused her to blush.

“A-Ah guess Ah’m more hungry then Ah thought.” Applejack said.

Matthew smiled, “I made plenty, so eat up.” He pulled her chair out for her and she took a seat, he made her a plate which she smiled “Enjoy.” He made himself a plate and took a seat across from her and the two began to eat their meal.

“This is really good!” Applejack said as she took another bite of her lasagna.

“I’m glad.” He said as he took a bite, he could taste the veggies within the lasagna, he remember Sawdust informing him there us to be a lasagna dish made with meat however that was lost in the war so no one knew how it was made compared to the what Sawdust called it a vegetarian lasagna. He looked at Applejack who was enjoying her meal and he couldn’t help but smile more as he did really like her “S-So, I-I wanted t-to speak with you a-about something i-important.” Applejack could see Matthew was struggling a bit with his words as he looked to be very nervous “I-I overheard you and a mare talking in the barns the other night.” Applejack’s eyes went wide; she knew what he was about to say, her heart was racing and her stomach was in knots as she was worried he was about to reject her “I-I.” Matthew couldn’t find the words and he pulled out a piece of paper and handed her the piece of paper. Applejack took the paper and looked at it and what she saw made the knot in her stomach loosen and her heart slow down, on the paper was her hand holding his, their fingers interlocked with one another “I-I feel the same.” She looked up at him and she could see his face was filled with worry and fear.

She placed the paper on the table, the two were close to each other so this made things easier for Applejack as she placed her hand on his “We have a lot to discuss then.” She said with a smile.

“I-I can’t give you everything you may want, b-but I will do everything I can for you.” He said, keeping his eyes on her. He felt her hand move to his cheek.

“Ya don’t have ta worry about that Matt, Ah have what Ah want right here on my farm.” She smiled at him “A-Ah know Ah can’t be what you may want however ah want to at least try.”

“W-What I want is to be here.” He said. He leaned forward and kissed her cheek which made her blush. The two held each other's hands as they looked at each other “S-So, will you go out with me?”

She smiled “Of course.” Both their cheeks were red as they sat there holding hands and looking at each other “S-So, what would ya like ta know about me?” Applejack asked which caused Matthew to blink for a moment and then he understood what she meant.

“O-Oh um.” Applejack chuckled a little at his now panic, she knew he never been through this type of thing before, while she had dated a couple of stallions before this was still a bit new to her as well. “W-Would you mind i-if I use the memory spell?”

Applejack blinked “That spell the old king showed ya?” She asked and he nodded “Why?”

“I-It will h-help us connect as I was told by both L-Luna and the old king.” Matthew said looking down at their hands “I-I can just show you my memories if you don’t want to fully share.”

He felt her hand tighten around his “If that’s how ya wanna do this Ah don’t mind.” She smiled and he smiled back.

With a nod he activated the spell allowing their two minds to connect and share their memories.

Applejack felt the tears run down her cheeks, she saw the horrors Matthew went through, the whipping, the alcohol being poured onto his wounds. He went through hell. Meanwhile Matthew saw a few sad memories however the one that caused his tears was Applejack standing before her parents dead bodies laying on the ground both with stab wounds. Watching her break down broke his heart and he felt saddened by the fact he still had his mother. The two wiped away their tears “Y-You’ve been through a lot.” Applejack said, looking at him with a look of sadness in her eyes.

“Y-Yeah, I-I’m sorry if that was a lot, a-and I’m sorry about your parents.” He said, keeping his eyes on her.

“T-That was a long time ago, no need ta be sorry.” Applejack said, reaching out to his cheek to wipe the last of the tears from his eyes “Ah can see why ya are the way you are, ya been through so much, yet yer heart is still filled with kindness.” She moved forwards and allowed their lips to meet, she wanted to just peck his cheek but felt her body move into a kiss, she wanted him to know he had someone who truly cared for him. He felt their lips touch and his heart soar. She pulled from their kiss and she looked into his eyes “Ya don’t have ta worry anymore Matt, ya won’t ever have ta deal with anyone hurtin’ ya like that ever again.” Matthew felt the tears run down his cheeks, he never had this feeling before and he couldn’t figure out what this feeling was “Ya are safe here.” That was the feeling, the feeling of being safe.

To Be Continued.

Author's Note

What's this another chapter? So soon? :pinkiecrazy: Hope you all enjoy! :ajsmug: