(Canterlot Castle, Celestia’s P.O.V)

After a nice relaxing dinner with my beloved husband, Sheogorath, I decided to go for a stroll in the garden. I never really had the time to this kind of thing before I was married because of my paranoia of ponies wanting to see their princess doing something out of the ordinary, such as reading in the garden for my own enjoyment. “I still can’t believe Luna’s pregnant, and there’s going to be a half-Daedra, half-Alicorn running around the castle.” I said to myself with a giggle of excitement. My thoughts were soon interrupted by the signature sound of my brother-in-law teleporting. I got up from the bench I sat down on to go investigate what was happening. Once I arrived into the throne room, I saw Kai, Luna, and a stranger with some very interesting armor and weapons standing in the center of the room. “We know you’re there Tia, so you might as well come out and meet our new guest.” Luna said. I slowly walked into the room. “How did you know I was there?” I asked. “I know you too well.” She said flatly. I simply rolled my eyes in response. “Wow, so you’re Celestia?” The man in armor asked in bewilderment. “Yes I am. Who are you?” I said with a smile. “I’m Gideon White. Nice to meet you.” he said extending a hand, which I took and firmly shook. “Well how about we all head off to bed since we’ve all had quite a tiresome day and properly introduce ourselves over breakfast.” I said as I let out a small yawn. “Sounds fair,” Gideon agreed. “So, do I sleep out here, or what?” I simply giggled and rolled my eyes at Gideon. “Of course not, I’ll have one of the maids escort you to your room. Helena, can you come here please?” I said and within a few seconds a young, cream colored Pegasus mare with lilac eyes, and a silver mane and tail appeared next to me. “You called majesty?” She asked with a curtsy. “Yes, I need you to take this fine young gentleman to his room.” I said pointing at Gideon. “Of course right this way sir.” Helena said as she walked towards the guest quarters. “Lead the way then.” Gideon responded, following behind her.

(Gideon POV)

‘This place is worse than a maze,’ I thought to myself as the maid and I made our way through the dozenth turn through the castle hallways. “I don't want to sound like a whiny brat, but how much longer?” I asked. “Just two more doors, and we’re here!” The maid said as she opened the door. “If you need anything, just call me, or any of the other maids. Oh, and in case Celestia wasn’t clear about it, my name’s Helena, Helena Quickfeather.” I nodded. “Good to know, thanks.” I turned around and gave the room a lookover. 'Simple, yet fancy. Not bad,’ I thought with a slight smile. I carefully removed my armor and laid down for bed...and was out like a light.

The next morning, I woke up with a nasty headache and an even nastier mood. With a groan, I got up from bed and grabbed my Guandao and used it as a walking stick/cane to get to the door. Upon opening the door I saw the same maid, Helena standing at the door. “Oh goodness! Are you okay?” She asked worriedly. “Fluoxitine.” I said groggily. Helena arched an eyebrow in confusion. “What did you say?” she asked. “I said Fluoxitine. It's a drug that is meant to help keep my mood properly balanced. Without it, I'm either too hyper, or too pissed off.” I explained. “I didn't come here with them, so I hope this place has something similar that can do the same.” Helena seemed to understand. “Oh maybe Celestia’s husband can help, I mean he’s kind of like that. I mean one minute he’s super nice, the next he’s spouting some nonsense like wanting to make a sweater made out of someone’s entrails, or something like that.” She explained. “Until the and to save time, I’ll carry you to the dining room.” She said as she walked behind me, held on to me, she then kicked off the ground and began flapping her wings. I immediately placed a deathgrip on her arms, nearly hitting her with my weapon. “Watch it, or I’ll drop you!” She shouted. “Sorry!” I shouted back. “I forgot to mention I've got a bit of a fear of heights...not that you asked or anything.” Helena soon looked ashamed. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t going to go very high, just high enough for me to set you down easily.” She said as we gently glided down the hall towards the dining room. “If you do drop me, just make sure I don't land on my head. My brains are scrambled enough as is.” I said, slightly jokingly. Helena giggled as we soon ended up near what I assumed to be the dining room.

She carefully landed allowing me to get out of her arms and quick stand up straight, faking an attempt to act nonchalantly concerning my freak out. “Let's try to keep my freak out to ourselves as much as we can. Deal?” I said. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Helena said with a wink. I definitely didn't blush when she did that! Anyway, she opened the door for me as my adrenaline rush ended, leaving me in a much more of a nasty mood than before. “Good morning Gideon. I trust you slept well.” Luna said from her seat at the table. “Getting a good night's sleep was easy. Waking up is a different story...especially when I wake up with a headache and poor mood.” I answered as I hobbled to a seat far from the rest of the assembled individuals. “I’m sorry to hear that. Hopefully a good breakfast will help.” Luna replied as a man in a two colored suit came in with a cart of food. “Here we go, Breakfast is served!” He said with a jovial Irish accent. After wincing at his volume, I snapped as lightly as I could. “Top o da mornin to you too, Two-Face! Turn the volume of your voice down a notch or two and we'll get along nicely!” The man walked over to me, placing a platter of pancakes, hash browns, scrambled eggs, orange juice, and bacon. “Sorry laddy. I couldn’t help but overhear what ya said about your condition, and I got just what ya need.” He said brandishing a bottle of Fluoxitine in his hand. “Thank you.” I said, pocketing the bottle. “Don’t mention it. Also that bottle has an infinite supply, so ya don’t have to keep gettin’ more. Oh, my name’s Sheogorath, Daedric Prince of Madness, and loving husband to this beauty right here.” Sheogorath said pointing to Celestia who blushed at the compliment. Placing my hand on my forehead, I chuckled. “Fēngkuáng jiùshì lìliàng. Too true for you.” I muttered loud enough for him to hear. “Ha! I like you, what’s your name? No, wait don’t tell me, I want to guess.” He said putting a hand under his chin. “You’re Gideon White.” He said after about fifteen seconds. I laughed, before bracing my throbbing head. “If I had a nametag, I would have thought you cheated, but considering your status, I can't claim that.” I said. He chuckled and gave me a pat on the back before heading over to Celestia, pecking her on her cheek and sitting down with his own breakfast.

I scooped up a portion of my hash browns. “So, any more questions I need to answer?” I asked before placing my forkful of food in my mouth. “I got one, what other cultures exist in the world you come from?” Kai asked before placing his fork into his mouth. “A loaded question right there. As far as I'm aware...a few hundred or so cultures with half as many countries.” I answered, placing another forkful of food in my mouth. “What were some of the major ones; the big players?” Luna asked as she took a drink of her orange juice. “The three biggest ones are Russia, China, and the United States; the last one is my home, while my ancestry comes from China.” I explained. “Interesting. Where did you live in the United States?” Kai asked. “Idaho. That place has a lot of potatoes and Mormons there. The town in particular, Rexburg, is a college town. Big enough to be considered a city, but small enough to have a simple town feel at times.” I answered “We really should’ve invited either Twilight, or Lyra to come and interview you, so we can publish this.” Celestia said as she daintily patted her muzzle with her napkin. “Just so long as I get 10% of sales, and the book has a decent disclaimer on the margin of error I can have with the provided information, I'm good with whatever you decide.” I said. “How ‘bout 25%, I mean some of the info you provide could be half-right, or missing a few details, but we can’t fault ya for that.” Sheogorath proposed with a surprising amount of logic for a madman. “Fair point.” I gave in. “Good lad. Now hun aren’t ya gonna sent Twilight a letter and let her know what’s happening?” Sheogoath said. “Yes of course.” Celestia said as she flared her magic, making a scroll, a quill, and inkpot appear. She then proceeded to narrate her letter to Twilight before sending it in a small flash of gold colored magic.

(Twilight’s Castle, Ponyville, Twilight POV)

The morning started just like any other. I was waking up from a luxurious sleep. I recently had been planning to open up a school for all of the races on Equis, and even the peoples of Tamriel. I spent the last couple of days writing up the curriculum for the school, and I think it’ll please the E.E.A. Right now though it’s time for breakfast. Since Spike was basically head of staff here in the castle, we had plenty of servants ranging from fellow ponies, to Khajiit. They were all happy to work here, and I was proud that Spike could give others tasks that he normally does by himself. “He’s grown up so much.” I thought to myself as I went to brush my hair. “Your Highness.” My High Elf steward, Greagithir, called into my room. “Oh, good morning Greagithir, how are you?” I said with a slight yawn. “I'm perfectly fine, theoretically speaking. I just came to inform you that breakfast is ready when you are.” Greagithir said. “Thanks, did anything come in the mail from the E.E.A, or something?” I asked as we walked towards the dining room. “You do know that the mail doesn't come until noon, with a few exceptions involving urgent mail or messages.” A scroll suddenly appeared in front of me with a golden flash. “Speak of the Daedra.” Greagithir said in surprise. I began to read the letter to myself, and I felt my lips curl into a smile as a new opportunity just now presented itself. “Should I be worried about what you have in mind?” Greagithir asked with a smug smirk on his face. “No!” I said quickly. “Are you sure?” Greagithir asked. “Yes!” I exclaimed whilst my wings fluttered open. “Alright, I was just kidding. I’m guessing Celestia just gave you a task or something.” Greagithir said with a chuckle. “Would it be worthy of Code: Nerdgasam?” A passing Argonian maid asked. “Screw you Meera” I said with a giggle. “All jokes aside, what does Celestia want you to do?” Greagithir asked. “She wants me to help publish a research paper about the culture and history of Gideon White. The letter also says that he’ll be staying with us and he’ll be the teacher for United States History.” I said excitedly. “She also said that my meeting with the E.E.A is tomorrow at 10:00 am.” I continued. “Well I’ve taken the liberty of making your proposal flawless. Even that pompous snob, Neighsay won’t be able to argue with it.” Greagithir said as we arrived in the dining room. “Thanks Greagithir, I don’t know what I’d do without you.” I said with a smile. “Probably having a nervous breakdown, and eventually Celestia will have to get involved.” He said, pulling my chair out for me and taking his own seat across from me. “Probably.” I replied as some maids came in with breakfast.

After breakfast Greagithir, Spike, and I packed for our trip to Canterlot tomorrow. The Letter Celestia sent said that Gideon would return with me to Ponyville. “Okay all of my stuff is packed. How about you guys?” I asked closing my suitcase. “Packed and ready to go.” Greagithir answered. “Me too.” Spike answered with a thumbs up. “Great! We’ll leave around noon.” I said.

(Later)

After we left the train station, we ate lunch at the Tasty Treat restaurant. It maybe a bit spicy, but it’s much better than what’s normally served in Canterlot. “That was Delicious, thanks for having us Saffron!” I said with a smile as we left. “Thank you come again, Princess.” Saffron said with a smile. “We just might.” Greagithir commented after we left the place. We continued our walk to the castle and we heard the sounds of people grunting, yelling, and weapons clashing. “The guards must be training.” Spike said. Greagithirand I both nodded in agreement, but then we heard someone shouting in a language we’ve never heard before. We climbed up the wall and saw the sparring arena was packed with guards off to the side watching a man in very ornate armor sparring against the new Captain of the Guard, Solvir, a Nord from Skyrim. “Nǐ yǐ bài yǐ!” The man shouted before landing a kick that sent Solvir flying a good ten feet back. Two pegasus guards catch the Nord before he hits the ground. “You fight really well without a blade lad, keep at it, you’ve certainly taught this old bear a thing or two.” Solvir said shaking the man’s hand firmly. “Thanks, you fought well too.” he replied. Solvir and the guards left the arena to shower. The man kneeled down in the center of the arena, closing his eyes in meditation. Greagithir, Spike, and I quietly climbed back down and went inside the castle to Celestia, and Sheogorath dealing with nobles. “Aunty, surely there must be something that can be done for the orphans.” The all-too-familiar voice of Prince Blueblood somewhat whined. “I wish I could nephew really I do, but with the current situation, we’ll have to postpone the renovations.” Celestia said sadly. Opening the door to the throne room, Blueblood seemed to have a plan. “What about my estate, I hardly ever go there anymore, the property is more than large enough for the children to feel comfortable.” He proposed. Clestia nodded. “Very well nephew, you have my permission to move the orphans.” She said with a small smile on her face.

“Politics, how tiresome.” She said with a sigh. Turning her head, she saw my little group coming in. “Oh Twilight! It’s so nice to see you again!” Celestia said getting up from her throne and embracing me in a hug. I return the hug. “It’s nice to see you too Celestia.” I said breaking the hug. “So what’s new aside from the usual.” I asked. Celestia giggled. “Well I’m sure you’re aware of our new guest, Gideon.” I nodded. “Well other than that, Luna’s pregnant!” Celestia squealed. “Oh my gosh! Really?! How long ago was this?!” I asked with equal excitement. “Since two weeks ago, she found out yesterday afternoon.” Celestia said finally calming down. “Well if ya need me, I’ll be with the boys at the donut shop. Come on lads.” Sheogorath said as he walked over to Spike and Greagithir, who both followed him out the door.

(Gideon POV)
I opened my eyes after about an hour of meditation and felt more refreshed than if I took a nap. Standing up, I found the training arena was empty, except for the ‘crazy’ few who were still practicing. I gave a sigh and walked to the castle to at least get myself cleaned up before anyone needed me. As I started walking, I overheard some of the guards and maids talking about someone named Princess Twilight, and that she was staying here for a meeting she has tomorrow. “I wonder if Princess Twilight is like Celestia and Luna in terms of her behavior.” I thought to myself as I eventually found the shower room.

After a quick, yet invigorating shower, I went to my room to change into cleaner clothes. Just as I finished changing, someone knocked on the door. “I’m decent. Who is it?” I asked. “It’s me, Helena. I just wanted to let you know that dinner is about to start.” Helena said as she opened the door slightly. I strapped my hookblades to my back. “Then let’s not keep the food waiting.” I answered with a slight smirk. “I see that your mood has improved since this morning. Did Crazy King Sheo help you?” She asked. “No, but the Prince of Madness did.” I said with a bit of a laugh. “I thought that, with how your princesses are titled, kings and queens were pretty much non-existent or considered bad.” Helena nodded. “That’s how it was before Celestia and Luna got married, Cadance is the only royal that elected to keep her title at Princess.” She clarified as we walked towards the dining room. “Good to know...and speaking of princesses, what is this Princess Twilight like? I want to make sure I can stay on her good side.” I said, making Helena laugh. “Twilight hates it when someone treats her like a proper royal. I mean she likes to stay as close to people by reminding them that she’s not above them.” She explained as she opened the door to the dining room. At the head of the table was Celestia and Sheogorath, to their right was Kai and Luna, and to their left was a dragon, an Altmer, and a young lavender alicorn mare wearing a simple, modest white shirt and black skirt. “Regardless of her status, my mother practically drilled the fact that all women...and to some extent, mares, are to be treated with respect as if they were a Queen. Her being a princess makes it a bit easier.” I said before turning my attention to the three unknowns. “So...Princess Twilight and her two sidekicks, right?” I asked. “Close, the dragon is Spike, she basically raised him as a hatchling, and the Altmer next to her is her steward,Greagithir. Don’t let his race fool you he has a very good sense of humor.” Helena whispered in my ear. “Thanks.” I whispered back before taking a seat next to Kai and Luna.

“Oh, good evening Gideon, we didn’t see you come in.” Celestia said, finally noticing me. Twilight quietly cleared her throat. “I’m sorry where are my manners? Gideon this is my former student Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship. Her steward Greagithir, and her “son” Spike.” She said pointing to each of them. Greagithir bowed his head, Spike waved, and Twilight smiled. “Wait you’re that man who beat Captain Solvin in the sparring arena!” Twilight said fangirling a bit. “Forgive her, she’s excitable.” Greagithir said with a smirk. “Easily forgiven. No offence came from that...although, if I did take ‘offence’, I’d just put it around a yard.” I joked. Spike started laughing, Twilight seemed confused, and Greagithir simply smiled and shook his head. “Twi, he means that if he took ‘a fence’ he’d just put it around a yard.” Spike clarified. “Oh.” Twilight said realizing what I meant. “Sorry, I’ve just been on edge because I have a meeting with the E.E.A tomorrow morning.” Twilight said with a sheepish smile. “Meetings. I'm not a fan of them, but they are a necessary part of life.” I said. “True, but this is a proposal for me to open up my own school to teach the many races of the world about the magic of friendship. Unfortunately even Celestia’s school has to abide by the regulations of the E.E.A, despite being a monarch.” Twilight said pointing to her former mentor.

I nodded in agreement. “Meetings and Education regulations aside, a ‘little phoenix’ told me that your school will be interested in my country's (and to a broader extent, my world's) history?” Twilight nodded in excitement. “Yes, that’s right, so would you please come with me to help support my case for the E.E.A?” She asked with a slight pout. “No need for the puppy face. I'll be willing to help.” I answered through a chuckle. “Thanks Gideon, really, as confident as I look, I’m extremely nervous.” Twilight answered. “I know how that feels, practically daily.” I responded. “I’m sorry to hear that, but maybe we could continue this conversation tomorrow in Ponyville.” Twilight suggested. Giving a thumbs up, I said, “Fair enough.”

(The next morning, Twilight’s P.O.V)

After getting a good night’s rest, and a good breakfast, I was ready to present my proposal to the E.E.A. I just finished brushing my hair when Greagithir entered my room. “Ah, Twilight, we’re ready to leave.” He said as he closed the door. “Ok, I’m coming.” I said placing my brush in my suitcase. Once I got in the hall, I saw Gideon, Spike, and Greagithir waiting by the door. Gideon pointed the pommel of his sword at me and said, “So, you ready to enter the proverbial lion’s den?” I smiled and nodded. “I am. Can I ask you some questions about you?” Gideon simply shrugged. “I don’t see the harm. Ask away.” He said. “Great! What’s the political structure of the United States like?” I asked as we started walking down the hall towards the streets of Canterlot City. “Representative Democracy which is split within three sections: Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary. That’s the most simple of it. I hate politics personally, but if you have questions, limit most of the political ones as much as you can.” He answered. I nodded. “Gotcha. I heard that your country is on one of seven continents, which one did your grandparents come from?” I asked while jotting down quick notes. “Father’s side, Mother’s side, or both?” He asked. “Both I guess.” I replied with a slight shrug. “My father’s side comes from the continent of Africa, while my mother’s side comes from Asia. South Africa and China specifically and respectively.” He stated. “Interesting. Is it true that your people have been through two wars that had engagements all over the world?” I asked as we continued to walk, but Gideon stopped dead in his tracks. “Yes, they were not pretty, nor should you bring up the portions involving the Nazi’s African Campaign or the Japanese invasion of China, if you value not having a headache.” He said with a look that seemed to say, ‘I will devour your soul if you take the wrong step.’ I frowned. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know that it was a sensitive topic for you, I won’t go any further with this, but history is often a terrifying topic because our families, and our friends families have been hurt by the actions of terrible people. If we teach this generation that they live privileged lives and need to have an understanding of the failures of those before them.” I said as I gave Gideon a comforting hug. “It’s okay. I shouldn’t have snapped to begin with.” He said while returning the hug. “Now I think we should stop snuggling or your elven friend might end up jealous.” He said noticing Greagithir frowning. “Oh lighten up Greagithir, I asked a particularly sensitive question.” I said with sly grin. We continued our walk and entered the building of the E.E.A.

“So, who goes first?” Gideon asked. “We can all go in, just speak only when spoken to, and of course try not to get angry, the majority of the seats held by the E.E.A are all unicorns, with a few Altmer, and Dunmer.” I said as the door opened to a darkly lit room. “And now if you thought you were nervous, I feel like I need to have my sword ready to slice something open.” Gideon said while slightly shaking. “That’s not necessary. Let’s just get this over with.” I said taking a deep breath before walking into the room with Greagithir, and Spike following behind me. Gideon followed them, but kept to the shadows.

(Gideon POV)

I wasn’t exactly sure why, but I had a bad feeling about the meeting. When all four of us entered the room, I stuck to the shadows and observed as much as I could. “Princess Twilight, it seems that the purpose of this meeting is to debate whether or not you will be allowed to run a school to educate children on the magic of friendship.” The head of the E.E.A, Chancellor Neighsay said. “That’s correct sir. This is a copy of the curriculum my steward and I have come up with. I think you’ll find that there’s nothing unreasonable here.” Twilight said confidently as she used her magic to give Neighsay the curriculum. “Impressive, but there is a small bit of confusion. What is this United States History class, and who is teaching it?” Neighsay asked after looking through the book Twilight gave him. “It is my class, and the name is a bit of an oversight.” I said from the shadow before stepping into the light. “And who are you?” One of the Altmer administrators asked. “My name is Gideon White. I was forced from my home to come here for refuge. Princess Twilight offered me a job to teach about my people, and seeing as I have no other real option for employment or some sort of living, I accepted.” I answered.

“Very good. Now, Ms. Sparkle, I expect you to follow all of the regulations of the E.E.A, and I’ll be arriving at the end of the week to evaluate whether your school will be accredited. Do you accept these terms?” Neighsay asked. “I accept. I promise you won’t be disappointed.” Twilight said as Neighsay stamped a piece of paper that had the E.E.A’s seal of approval on it. “That remains to be seen Ms. Sparkle, but good luck regardless. Meeting adjourned!” Neighsay replied. ‘Geez, Mr. Umbridge. You emo much?’ I asked in my head as I followed the other three out. “Well, that went much better than I expected. Now we’re off to Ponyville!” Twilight said as we went back for our stuff, and headed for the train station. “Next stop, Ponyville. I wonder what will happen to me.” I thought to myself as we boarded the train.

Author's Note

Big thanks to Wayward Shadow for his help. Like, Comment, all that good stuff.