Easy Access, the Story of Quill

Chapters

The Closet Brony
The Impossible
The Experimentation
The Test Dummy
The Compromise Pt.1
The Compromise Pt.2
The Change
The First Meeting
The New Job
The Invention
The First Episode
The Princesses
The Futures Past and Noble Beginnings
The Mirror Thief
The Magic Man Pt.1
The Magic Man Pt.2
The Inconceivable Mage
The False Alicorn
The Feathered Complication Pt.1
The Feathered Complication Pt.2
The Feathered Complication Pt.3
The Feathered Complication Pt.4
The Feathered Complication Pt.5
The Planning Phase
The Deal With The Raven
The Trip Home
The Chapter Title
The Voices In My Head
The Mistaken Identity
The God of Chaos
The Gala Is Near!
The Gala Is Here!
Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.1
Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.2
Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.3
Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt. 4
Act. 2 The Harbinger of Freedom
The Truth (Intro)
Act. 2 The Homecoming

The Closet Brony

Home. They say home is where the heart is. Well if that's the case then I guess I'm homeless. I've never felt the need for companionship other than the mutual one night stands every once in a while, I am a man after all. The closest thing to love I've ever felt is the calm and slightly happy feeling I get from watching My Little Pony Friendship is Magic. I've never told anyone about my attraction to the show because I, one of the most logical people I know, don't even understand why I like the show. Speaking of home, I pull into my driveway and am about to open the garage door to pull my car in when I remember I need the space inside for my 'Project' because I have finally bought the last piece needed to finish it.

As I get out of the car I pop the trunk and walk around to grab the small box containing the eleventh and final real amethyst gem, fucking expensive by the way, to finish the completely handmade perfectly scaled Crystal Mirror from the Equestrian Girls movie. It took all of my 'extra' money, that didn't go towards bills or food, for an entire year to make this as precise as possible. The mirror is actually a thin reflective quartz and was nearly impossible to get made, but with the LED lighting I attached behind it, it should look amazing when plugged in. Closing the trunk and locking my car I walk to the side door of the garage unlocking it to enter the pitch black room.

Having just got off work its night, so with no natural light to work with I flick the light switch on and close the door behind me. My garage is the same tidy room that it always is, nothing cluttering the floor, tools all hanging in predefined areas, and the work of art in the center that I am about to finish covered by an old quilt that was left in the garage by the previous house owner. The only thing stopping me from setting the last gem in place and plugging in my masterpiece is the exhaustion from today's twelve hour shift. Great things come to those who wait, I'll do it tomorrow since i have the day off.

Placing the box I was holding on the workbench I drag myself through the door that leads into the house, and towards the stairs to my room. However fate had other ideas, "Hey baby, i missed you this morning." Says last nights mistake. Don't get me wrong the sex was pretty good but I hate it when they can't understand the simple words 'I only want to fuck, after that you leave.'

"As I said last night, I only wanted to have sex with you to get rid of the urges for a while. Why are you still here?" She must not have left after I went to work like the rest usually do.

"Ouch you wound me, why the tone? I just figured since last night was so good you'd want me to stick around for round two." She tried so hard to sound sexy and while she succeeded I couldn't care less, I got what I needed from her. Besides she knew what this was and agreed anyway.

"No. I got what I wanted, and besides I've had better." I know, that was a bit harsh but hey it worked. She looked pissed as she re-dressed and left. Did i forget to mention she was naked? Eh oh well, I'm tired. I walk upstairs to my bedroom and flop into bed fully clothed. I was asleep almost instantly.

The Impossible

I enjoy sleep a great deal but for whatever reason I can never sleep in, I always wake up at 7 AM. I blame school burning that wake up time into my heads internal clock. Anyways I peel out of last nights cloths, shower, and redress in clean cloths all before 7:30 AM. After breakfast and some basic stretches I return to the garage to work on a few projects. I also schedule a delivery order for pizza around noon just because why not. Saving the best for last I finish the remaining parts of my final few commissions that I only took on for the extra cash to make the crystal mirror.

I almost feel as if I should record the first time I plug in the mirror but that would be pointless as I would never show anyone nor would I watch it ever again considering I was there at the time. Disregarding the useless thought I began to work on setting the expensive rock into the mirror's frame using a completely natural non-horse superglue. Why? It works just as well as any other plus it seemed wrong to use the regular.

Once the gem is set i step back to admire my work with a sense of pride. I still do not understand why a show meant for children incites more feeling in me than anything or anyone ever has. I blame this worlds corruption and the lack of consideration for others that once existed, I didn't always used to be so cold towards everyone. I started realizing I was becoming an ass about the same time I stopped caring about others and their views towards me.

Now that I've been standing here pointlessly staring into the mirror and wasting time I decide to finally test my finished project and see how it looks when its turned on. I can't help but feel a little bit saddened that the mirror is finished, I really enjoyed working on this project for some reason. Rather than drag the mirror to a spot close to a plug, I unplug the fan i was using from the extension cord and plug in the mirror.

When I do this however I feel a small jolt of electricity which I assume came from the old cord I was using. Strangely enough though it felt like it came from all around me rather than the plug, plus all the hair on my body was standing on end which shouldn't happen with such a small shock. Regardless of what just happened I start to head towards the front of the mirror only to hear the doorbell ring. Looking at the clock I see that its already noon and leave the garage shutting off the light along the way.

I spend the next half hour devouring the pizza and end up only having two extra slices to put in the fridge for later. I am about to return to the garage when I hear an odd buzzing noise that's getting louder, it's almost like the noise of large amounts of electricity that you would hear near a power station. The noise honestly scared me because the only thing that could cause it is the house itself, and I would prefer to keep my home and not have it start an electrical fire. Considering the only new thing that was plugged in is the mirror I immediately return to the garage door. However the second I grab the door handle i feel the familiar tingle of large amounts of electricity going through me and promptly pass out.

The Experimentation

"Dafuq happened?" Was the first thing I said and thought when I woke up. Its pitch black in my house, the most likely cause is whatever the hell shocked me into unconsciousness until night came. This didn't make sense at all considering the only thing I touched was the door handle which isn't connected to anything electricity wise, it was almost like a massive static shock. I can barely see anything so I reach for the closest light source which is my phone in my pocket only to find that it was dead even after not having used it at all today. One of the many oddities I will find today it seems.

Standing up and feeling for where I landed after getting thrown back from the static shock, I feel the arm of the couch which is most likely what I hit after getting sent flying across the house. Having an idea where I was I headed in the direction of the front door to get outside, I wanted to check on why the street light outside my house wasn't lighting the room like usual. I had no issue getting where I wanted because of how many times I've walked through my house 'blind' just so I'd be prepared in situations like this. What can I say, I like to be prepared and I get bored allot.

I open the door to find nothing but the moon illuminating my yard and the distant neighbors houses. Seems to be a total blackout of the neighborhood judging by the candles in peoples windows. The timing had to be merely coincidence as there is no way plugging in some LED lights overloaded the whole power system that we run on. No power means no charging my phone, which also means no emergency contact if need be, though I doubt I'd call for anything anyway since I usually treat myself when injured.

My only other easy option for light inside the house is my military grade flashlight that i keep in the trunk of my car. Pulling the key fob out of my pocket I click the unlock button expecting the lights to flash and the door to unlock but nothing happened no matter what I pressed. Must have broke the fob when landing earlier, so the other option is to unlock the door with the key and quickly turn on the car to shut off the alarm. I never understood why the alarm still goes off even when using the key to open the door.

"What the hell?" No alarm, no lights, nothing. Its almost like it has a dead battery but that shouldn't be possible as nothing had been left on to drain it. Good thing this car has the old pull release latch for the trunk instead of the electronic kind. I doubt there's much I can do with no power so the best option would be either to wait or sleep until daylight. Considering I woke up feeling almost completely fine I chose the latter and returned to the house turning on the flashlight. "Glad something finally works.." I tend to speak to myself out loud when I get annoyed or my anxiety starts acting up, currently its the former. Shouldn't really be surprised that the flashlight still works, even though everything else electronic seems to be dead, being made for military use it can survive small explosions and even an electromagnetic pulse.

Even though it seems that everything got fried that was attached to my electricity, RIP gaming PC, I figure it would be best to unplug everything just so the objects that still work wont get ruined if there's a surge when the power comes back on. Twenty minutes later everything is unplugged other than the stuff in the bedroom, since I'm heading there eventually anyways, and in the garage. Even though the power is down I retrieve and put on my insulated rubber gloves for entering the same door that could have killed me earlier. I can tell from the moment I turn the knob that something isn't right. Light, the garage is lit up with a luminescent glow that seemed to get slightly dimmer every few seconds.

While shining the flashlight around it starts to flicker every time it passes the object sitting in the center of the room, the mirror. Even being behind the mirror i can tell the light is coming from it, which would be cool that it had this lighting effect if not for the fact that its currently on with no power in the house. I'll be honest, I was confused, scared, intrigued, and very uncomfortable with what was happening. Forcing myself to walk around in front of it was more difficult than i'd ever admit out loud.

"Holy hell, I better be fucking dreaming..." The light in the mirror looked way too familiar to the light of the open portal in the movie. As I got closer, curiosity getting the better of my fear, it almost felt as if there was a slight pull on my clothes towards the mirror. Like the mirror had its own gravitational pull. That's impossible though, I made this myself. I stopped about 3 feet away from whatever it is I was looking at, the pull felt much stronger but not enough to move me. My necklace however was pointing straight towards the mirror as if it was a magnet. "Not happening. Can't be happening, oh craaaaaap. This does NOT make sense!"

Confused cannot even begin to encompass my feelings on the situation, in the moment all logic seemed irreverent so I let curiosity take control again to hopefully try and understand what was happening. I needed something, anything to toss at the mirror to either prove or disprove my suspicions that this was just some hallucination brought on by the earlier shock.

Not wanting to move from the spot I was currently standing in I had 4 things I could throw, phone, wallet, keys, or the flashlight. I need the flashlight to see, my phone would hit the flood and break, and I don't want to chance losing my keys in the dark so wallet it is. With the wallet in hand I slowly reach towards the mirror and release my hold on the wallet, it falls to the floor at an angle towards the mirror then slides closer until suddenly it lifts up and gets pulled directly into the mirror disappearing with a popping noise. I walked straight through the door into the main house ignoring what had just happened saying, "Nope. I'm fucking done for the day. I'm going to bed. Now."

The Test Dummy

It's been three days. Three tense, irritating days since the portal opened and the power went out. People from News channels, police, electricians and everyone in between has been searching for the cause of the blackout without success. The only thing they have found is that a massive amount of energy was being pulled from the power substation and all electronics within the area. They are unable to find where its going, how its getting there, or how every thing is getting drained. My boss gave me some time off when he heard of what happened so I've been keeping my head down and an eye on the portal that, so far, has not changed and is no doubt where the power is going.

I've tossed a few more random objects through with the same result as what happened the first night. Each day the curiosity about what would happen if I went through grew more and more, but my fear kept me from testing it. 'What if' questions refused to let me sleep at night. What if it leads to Equestria? What if I get stuck there? What if the portal went both ways and a pony came through?

Food in my house was becoming sparse because of my inability to think ahead when i threw my wallet through. I have no money, ID, or bank card to buy anything food or otherwise. I cant help but think about how suddenly things changed just because I simply recreated an object from a movie I liked. It's only a matter of time before they find a way to track the flow of electricity back to my house and the mirror, so I need to do something soon. If the doorknob was that electrified then unplugging it is out of the question, I'd also rather not break it. Who knows if it would ever work again, or if i even want it to.

My last option was an idea I cooked up one day when I sent a couch cushion through. The bigger the object the more the portal dimmed as if it was going to close, which probably means if I sent something large enough through, the portal would use too much power and shut down. Its merely a theory but its the only way I see of stopping this and getting things back to normal. The only issue is what to send through.

I had been spending much of my time in the garage just watching the portal, waiting and thinking. My sleep schedule was all fucked up from just going to my room and sleeping whenever I felt the need, plus I had heard someone messing with my door the second night at about two in the morning. They left on their own before I could do anything.

Its about 11:50 PM now when I decided to get some sleep if my mind would let me. I'm laying in bed for quite some time before I finally start to doze off, but before I could completely fall asleep I hear a loud crash that has me up and alert immediately. Fucking hate thieves, using a disaster like this to break into houses when the alarms are down. They're scum. The very idea that someone broke into my house trying to steal my shit fired me up, I was ready for anything. While id love nothing more than to leave my bedroom and beat this guy to a pulp with my fists, I grab my gun and flashlight because I'm not stupid. No, I'm not gonna shoot the guy on sight if that's what you're thinking, i'm simply going to make sure he realizes the error of his ways. In other words I'm going to scare the hell outta him till he hopefully shits himself.

Leaving my room I head for each room slowly and quietly checking them and closing the doors. After clearing the front room and kitchen, where I find the back door open and busted, I realize the only place left he could be is the garage. "The Mirror!" Forget the scare tactic I have to trap this guy, If he has seen the mirror I can't let him escape for obvious reasons. Going over to the door to the garage, which he thankfully closed behind him, I can hear movement on the other side. I lock the door with the deadbolt on this side intent on cornering him. I run out the front door and around to the side garage door, not caring about the fact that I just ran through my yard mostly naked.

I burst through the door with the flashlight and gun ready to aim at the intruder. "Hey Jackass!" I yelled. Much to my pleasure he turned around so fast he slipped and fell, looking up at me terrified by the sudden appearance of a gun wielding half naked man. This kid couldn't be much younger than me, still over 18 though.

"Shit! Don't shoot!"

As I started walking closer he stood up with his hands raised with his back to the mirror. "You realize that you fucked up right?" He nodded. "You've also seen something you shouldn't have. Do you understand what I'm getting at here?"

"I promise I won't tell anyone about whatever this is, just don't hurt me. Please just let me go!" Huh, he just gave me an idea.

I could only smile. "My friend, you know how this works. I can't let you go." His eyes widened. "But I also can't keep you locked up like some animal, and I'm no killer." I lowered the gun walking closer. "So, I will simply use you. For science of course." With that I gave him a firm shove knocking him back and into the mirror. "Say hi to the princesses for me." I said just before he was pulled in and disappeared with a pop and a bright flash. Once I regained vision I noticed the lack of static in the air that there usually was, and to my relief the portal was gone. Only my flashlight producing light with the mirror having reverted back to just being a normal mirror.

I sincerely hope that the portal leads to Equestria as I know it rather than some apocalyptic version, or god forbid some random point in space. I may hate thieves but I would never wish a death like that upon anyone. After the thought and slight guilt went away I unplugged the mirror to hopefully avoid any more unwanted portals opening. I return to the house, again walking through my yard almost naked, to close and re-lock all the doors. "Damn. Still going to have to fix the back door." I yawn. "After I sleep of course."

Author's Note

Back again with another chapter! I know there's very little dialog so far but FEAR NOT! This will change in the next few chapters, for now though we are only just getting started!

The Compromise Pt.1

Author's Note

AN: Sorry about the wait peeps! Haven't had allot of time lately getting settled into a new job on night shift, and to be honest i kinda lost connection with my stories.. However I'm back with it for now so I hope you enjoy!

The Compromise Pt.1

I have no idea rather or not the portal has a 'cool down' period, however considering the media outbreak that happened last time, I should limit the usage of the portal to avoid unwanted attention. It's been a month since I pushed that poor guy in and I can't really say I feel bad. I doubt anything bad happened to him though, I'm just more curious than anything. If I can get the portal to open again I'm going to have to go through otherwise my curiosity will continue to nag at me, and if by chance it does lead to Equestria? Well then I have allot of work to do making a place for myself in their society.

If you're wondering why i'd be so quick to jump in, you obviously don't have any experience with other humans. In my opinion we're a piss poor excuse of a species that knows nothing but war, devastation, and sex. While I do enjoy the last one I'd give it up for a different life if I had to. Not that I would have to give it up if I ended up in Equestria, though the idea would take some getting used to. Anyway I'm going to activate the portal after work today with the intent of going through, but i'm going to have to get some stuff first on the off chance this thing does send me somewhere random rather than at the mirror that should be in the crystal kingdom. None of this would matter if it leads to my death rather than Equestria and i have no way of knowing either way. This begs the question, why risk it? I've nothing else to do and am quite bored with this life. Now don't get me wrong I'm not suicidal in the slightest, I'm just looking for a 'safe' way out which I believe I might have found a month ago in my garage.

Along with the provisions that I have to buy I will need to use all of my vacation days at once for the month I am gone, if that bastard will let me anyway. If it works and I turn up in Equestria I still want to be able to return to my life here. I may not like this life but I do still have obligations. Finally done preparing for work I get in my car and start to drive making a mental list of supplies I might need in different scenarios.

Near the end of my shift after my work is done I find my dumb-ass boss sitting in the break room for his eleventh 15 minute break of the day stuffing his face as per usual. "Hey Mr. Mayfield if you have a second I need to request some time off."

"Ah, my favorite employee. I've got some time, what days do you need? You've got a whole bunch built up and we're not really busy so take as many as you need." The guy is a dick to everyone other than me just because I don't talk back and have never missed a day in my time here. Also might I mention he never stopped eating even while talking.

I highly doubt he really means 'as many as I need' he never lets anyone out for more than a week no matter how much time they have built up. "Well the thing is sir, I'm going to need the whole rest of the month off. Something of great important came up that I need to take care of."

This man is like a light switch, he's either super friendly and helpful or a total red faced angry baboon. Guess which he switched to after hearing my request. "When I said take as much as you need I meant maybe a week! Not 30 fucking days! I couldn't give two shits about why you need the time but you either take a week or nothing at all."

"I'll just have to take the week then. If that's still alright." Pigheaded ass was still eating while yelling so I now had to clean half chewed food off of me.

"Ya whatever just take it now and leave me alone. I don't want to see you for the rest of the week."

"Food, water, clothes, flashlight, batteries, solar charger, notepad and pencils.. Good enough." My list of items I might need was far too long for the limited amount of space my pack had so against better judgement I'm only bringing stuff that may help in Equestria. Again, If it even leads there.

"Fuck it. Ready as I'll ever be I guess" With that I start prepping the portal which hopefully won't draw in as much power from the nearby area with the additional generators I had recently bought. With everything in place and my pack in hand I hit the switch to allow power to the portal. However regardless of my generators the power to the garage lights immediately cut out as the swirling of the portal started up. While I am happy the portal opened, it also caused my sense of fear to return full force and I was beginning to re-think my decision.

My legs were already moving me towards the portal before I could decide to chicken out, I guess my body decided for me. Once I was within touching distance I felt the distinct pull that I felt just a month ago, though before I could touch the portal the pull turned into a push shoving me back. It was just enough of a push to make me step back and ponder exactly what the hell is going on right now. Not having anything to base off of the only thing I can think of is that somethings coming through from the other side.

The possibilities of who or what could be coming through are endless and my options are few. Stand my ground and see what happens, or run like hell and hope I didn't doom earth by letting some unknown creature through. 'I am a man'. I must stand my ground, even though I don't have much of a choice with my legs shaking like they are. The portal started flashing then I began to hear screaming coming closer, but before I could react I was hit in the chest by something and knocked back into wall behind me. While trying to catch my breath I noticed it was the thief that had been thrown into me from the now closed portal. When the dazed thief finally noticed me he said, "Dude! You will not believe where that thing sent me!"

The Compromise Pt.2

Author's Note

Boop! Another update that took forever, hope you enjoy! Probably more than a few mistakes as I didn't have time to give it a good comb over, feel free to point them out in the comments.

The Compromise Pt.2

"Fucking waste of my vacation days." I grumbled to myself as I led the thief into the living room of my house. After he stood up from being launched into me he wouldn't shut up long enough for me to catch up with what he was saying so i just started leading him inside to wait for him to calm down. Nearly 20 minutes of fiddling around on my phone later I noticed the silence and looked up to see him digging through his pockets only to pull out a few half dollar sized gold coins.

"See! I think it's real! If I was going to stay here I'd be rich after selling them!" He said excitedly. "Oh ya I still need some stuff for when I go back so I might sell one or two."

"What in the hell are you even talking about? Just calm the fuck down and start again." He was about to start jabbering on again but I interrupted. "Stop. Slow down and just give me the important details, I don't care about what you did there i just want to know what you meant when you said you were sent somewhere."

"Sorry, I just get excited super easily. Ok, when you first pushed me in I was scared out of my mind. I didn't pay much attention to what was happening I was mostly just screaming with my eyes closed." He paused for a few seconds to put the coins back in his pocket and pulled out a few other things like his phone, wallet, and strangely enough my wallet though it looked a bit more dirty than when I sent it through. "It felt like I was going down a water slide almost and it went on for a few minutes but then it felt like I hit a wall at high speed but was still moving. I don't really know a good way of explaining it but everything hurt like hell but it only lasted a few seconds. After that though I felt really strange like something was off, it was weird. Not long after that I felt myself slow down but as soon as I opened my eyes I became really good friends with a stone wall." He started rubbing his face almost like he was remembering when he 'met' the wall. I laughed.

With a glare in my direction he continued regaining his excited appearance. "I don't know how long I was out but after I woke up and figured out how to use my legs, I made my way outside of the building I was in. I shit you not there was hundreds of small horses wandering around every color of the rainbow! Some were even wearing clothes and talking! It was like some weird acid trip, I didn't know what the fuck was going on so I just started wondering around-"

"Hold on." I interrupted again. "Small multicolored horses? Are you sure you didn't hit your head too hard?"

"Well I was seeing them the whole time I was there and I've never heard of a concussion that causes hallucinations for a whole month." He seemed to get a look of concentration on his face. "Now that I think about it, I've seen something like them before on a cartoon my little sis used to watch. Anyways," My eyes widened a bit at that, all this is sounding so ridiculously impossible but I saw him get taken somewhere and he has no real reason to make this shit up. "I wandered around in this HUGE horse filled city, talked to the few locals that didn't ignore me, and even found those coins on the ground. I had more but had to use some of them for food."

"You 'found' those coins on the ground," I gave him a deadpan stare. "and you 'bought' your own food. Somehow I don't believe that you found enough coins to live on the whole month."

"Ok I may have gotten most of my food for free when nobody was looking, but I had no choice unless I wanted to starve." He looked down with a guilty expression that almost made me think he felt bad about it. Almost. "I really did find those coins though. They were on the ground under a bench in an overgrown abandoned park."

"Just why were you under a park bench in the first place?" I continued to stare at him.

"Had to sleep somewhere. I kinda got lost that first day and didn't find the building with the mirror portal until a few days ago. I mostly just wondered around taking in the sights while I was searching for the portal, but when I finally found it I stayed right next to it until it opened a little while ago when I jumped in." I did tell him to simplify it but I have so many questions now.

"When you said you talked to a few of the locals did you find anything out about where you were? Did anyone in the building see you around the mirror?"

"As far as I know nobody saw me near the portal, it was in a kind of storage basement in the employees only area. I never really asked about where I was I was mostly just excited to be talking to sapient horses, but I did hear the word Canterlot thrown around allot when the more uptight ones were talking." Canterlot. That seals the deal for me, somehow I made a portal to Canterlot the capitol of Equestria.

"Wait, wait. What did you mean earlier when you said you were going back? What makes you think I'm going to just let you back through?" I said with a scowl. Had I known I was sending this thieving idiot to the innocent Equestria I'd have thought twice before shoving him into the portal.

His face morphed from confusion and anger to a smug grin. "I like it there. Nobody needs me here nor do they care if i'm gone, and I already made friends there. You will send me back because if you don't I'll tell this whole world about whats going on in your garage!" He looked so happy with himself, like he just guaranteed his return to Equestria.

"I hate to have to burst your bubble kid but 'a magical land of talking ponies'? Who's gonna believe that, let alone that I built a magic portal in my garage that leads there. Plus you're lucky I haven't called the cops and had you arrested for breaking and entering. I still haven't decided on rather or not I'm going to let you go yet." At the last few words I lifted my shirt a bit to show my holster for the same gun I had pointed at him a month ago. Am i being a bit harsh? Maybe but that look of utter defeat on his face was worth it. I know I'm an ass, get over it.

"So what, you're just going to keep me locked up in your house? Just call the cops and get it over with." He said with crossed arms while sitting back with his eyes closed. I just barely heard him whisper,"I'm sorry Gilda."

Damn it. What the hell, why not. I don't plan on being on my best behavior in Equestria anyway. "You've got one month to prepare. Keep this quiet and be back here exactly one month from now. Bring whatever you think you'll need, and don't be late."

-=-=-=-=-=-=-==1 Month Later==-=-=-=-=-=-=-

"I hope that idiot forgot." I'm already regretting my promise to let this kid come with me. A noise outside the garage door broke me from my brooding.

"Too bad for you asshat I could never forget my time there! I'm ready when you are!" I swear this kid is related to Rarity with how many bags he was carrying with him.

"Did you bring your whole house? Damn kid, we gotta get some shit straight. I have no idea how this thing works or if it even will with 2 of us going through. We are not taking all that shit with us. I don't want to overload this thing and get stuck there." I only have one duffel bag compared to this kids 2 suitcases, duffel bag and the backpack he was wearing.

"Ya, I didn't really think about that. I can do without most of this anyway, I at least want the backpack and this duffel." He says after dropping the rest of the bags next to the door. "Is that all your taking with you? One bag?"

"Yes, I'm only taking what I need nothing more. Clothes, some food, portable solar charger, phone, notebooks, pens, and a few mechanical pencils. What are you bringing?"

Laughing he says, "Dude you're not gonna need the clothes, and I'm bringing my PC, extra battery packs for charging everything, phone, tablet, and a bunch of survival stuff."

"Woah, hell no. The phone and battery packs are fine but the computer and tablet is staying. We need to keep our tech out of the public eye so we don't change the tech level of their society. We can't take anything that we can't hide in our pockets. Also why do you need the survival gear in the city, and why wouldn't I need clothes? I'm not going to walk around naked."

"Your the boss I guess." He didn't sound happy but put the duffel bag down anyway. "How about we make a deal. If I keep out of trouble, get a job, and gain your trust can I bring my PC next time we come here then go back?"

Doubt that will happen. "Sure kid. Now whats this about the clothing thing?"

"You won't need them, but i'd change the the ones you're wearing if I were you. Didn't I mention that I woke up as one of them?" He said while looking at my jeans and green shirt.

If my hand had hit my forehead any faster i'd be out cold. "Why didn't you mention that from the beginning! I would consider that one of the most important details."

"Sorry must have just slipped my mind."

The Change

Author's Note

Long chapter or a short chapter. Hmmm... This ones a bit longer than most of the others but I need help deciding on which would be better. Long (2k+ words) or short (<1.5k words). Long gives more info and bulk to the story, but if i do short I might be able to get 2 out... You all decide.

The Change

=-=-=-=-=Canterlot=-=-=-=-=

Twilight Sparkle rushed through the city towards the castle to talk to her teacher about the magical pulse that only she could feel. This was the second time it has happened, the first having happened only a month ago. When she detected the first pulse wave pass through her she knew it was powerful magic, and somehow only she had felt it. Twilight decided to wait and see if it would happen again before she interrupted Princess Celestia's important work for something so trivial. She was already prepared when the second wave hit, feeling the tingle just before it happened she used her own magic to track the spells origin to an apartment building in the so called 'poor' section of Canterlot. While contemplating why it was considered a poor area she walked past the castle guards who barely even glanced at their princesses star pupil having seen her many times in the past. She knew the castle well and headed through the maze like halls towards the thrown room where her teacher would most likely be denying some noble's official claim that the castle needed a statue of his 'family jewels' or something else to give himself a better standing with royalty.

Twilight had finally made it to the thrown room after several turns in different directions avoiding the dead ends. When asked Princess Celestia will say the reason for the maze like structure is a way of amusement that has kept her sane over the years, she sometimes enjoyed watching ponies get lost and confused. She sometimes even used illusion magic to make them walk in circles without their knowledge, some spending an hour walking in circles before she would send a guard to take them the right way. Just as Twilight was about to enter the side door that leads directly to the thrown she could just barely hear the conversation inside. "But auntie I think the maids would love to see me in all my glory every time they walk past my room! It will be made of gold, and we can use really big diamonds for my ba-"

"No Blueblood. Fouls sometimes walk these halls, I cannot allow such a thing in the castle and that's final." Celestia said with a tired sigh. He had probably been fighting for whatever this 'thing' is for a long time, Twilight thought as she entered the room. Celestia who was happy to finally have an excuse to leave immediately teleported Twilight and herself to the libraries vault so they could talk freely without interruption.

"Twilight! I'm thankful you came when you did, I swear that nephew of mine." She then noticed and recognized the look on Twilight's face. It was a look of excitement, wistfulness, and slight concern all mixed into one expression that she had only ever saw on her faithful student. "Whats going on Twilight, another experiment gone wrong? I'd be happy to help with the cleanup if you need me."

A slight blush broke through Twilight's expression at the memory of the last experiment when she accidentally cast a lust spell on half of Canterlot. "Um, this isn't about my magic this time thankfully." She could still remember the smell that hung around for weeks after that incident, sweat, salt, and regret lingered in the air. "This is actually about a powerful magical pulse that has happened twice now."

"Oh you mean the one from earlier today and the one last month?" Celestia said wondering about the implications of Twilight being able to detect such magic.

"Yes! Nopony else could feel them, I was starting to think it was just me but I should have know you would be able to sense it. I didn't know what it could be at first and I thought it would be better to wait and see if it happened again so I could write a report about it for you. When the second wave hit I was able to track it to an apartment building but it was over so quick that I couldn't tell which room it came from." Twilight seemed frustrated that she was unable to find the source.

"Did you scan the building for any residual magic?"

"That's the problem! There was no trace of such high tier magic which is impossible! The only magic I found was just remnants of small cleaning spells." Thinking for a moment she remembered something. "I did however sense a particularly strong magic buildup in one pony inside, It was almost like they were overflowing with power. I don't think it was that pony that caused the pulses, I doubt anypony could put out that much power." After Twilight finished they continued to talk over tea about what could have been the cause of the magic.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Celestia knew he had finally arrived. "After centuries of waiting our savior is here to bring you home sister. It's only a matter of time before we can be with each other once again Lulu. I've missed you." Celestia stood in the place she named 'The Hall of Memories Best Forgotten' thinking about all the time lost since her sisters banishment. She looked down the hall at all the pictures of loved ones that have either passed or betrayed the kingdom. As she walked she looked at the portraits of past husbands and nobles that meant a great deal to her and Luna. She was after the last portrait hung in the hall almost one thousand years ago, but she was distracted by the portrait of herself, her sister, and one other who had once been more than a friend to both of them. He lost their support and affection once he tried to take over Equestria with his chaotic magic. He now sits in the garden for all eternity as a statue that nopony on this planet recognizes.

Remembering why she came here in the first place Princess Celestia retrieved the painting of Princess Luna with a tears of joy in her eyes. "Soon sister, we'll be together soon." With the painting in hoof she teleported it to her room and began to walk with no destination in mind while thinking about the events to come in the near future.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

"Fucking hell." Everything hurt. "You better hope the portal worked and i'm in Equestria not some random ass planet." I said towards 'Thief' after waking up leaning muzzle first against the wall. Oh ya I have a muzzle now, and a tail. "Fuck my life."

"Hey you're the one that wanted to come with me, its your own fault." I could practically feel the excitement in his voice.

"Why are you so cheery? We just had our bones re-shaped and then got thrown into a wall." I say annoyed by his excitement.

"Wasn't so bad this time I barely felt anything. Must get easier each time I guess! Oh and also I had a nice soft landing thanks to my duffel bag. I put a pillow in there for this very reason, I had the bag to my chest when I jumped in!" Said the smug looking ass with wings. Which reminds me, what am I?

"Alright smart-ass, why don't you go stretch your wings or something. I don't care what you do but after we leave this building we do NOT know each other and we will not speak until our month is up and we head back through. Got it thief?" I quickly glance back at my side checking for wings but only see a dark green coat and part of a faded blue mane. "The fuck is this coloration!?"

"I told you to change clothes, why do you think I wore the same clothes I had on when I first went through. Oh and I do have a name you dickhead. You'll fit in with the other bone-heads around here, y'all are arrogant and stubborn." Ignoring his last comment I look up to see a large horn sticking out of my forehead. I couldn't help the maniacal laughter that slipped out after. Judging from the look on his face it must have sounded truly evil.

"This couldn't have worked out any better." Previous pain and annoyance forgotten I couldn't stop smiling.

"And you were worried about bringing me here? Da fuck was that shit!? Sounded like some evil villain laugh from a cartoon. Makes me think you're going to do something really bad, and stop smiling its creeping me the hell out!"

"I don't see why this is creepy. I'm simply excited at this turn of events. My plans will move along so much faster now with magic on my side," I tried to focus on my bag to make it float over to me but nothing happened. "once I figure out how it works."

"Well you have fun with that I'll just be leaving n-" Nearby a door slammed open and a pissed off looking griffon flew in and tackled Thief to the ground.

"HEY! Where in Tartarus have you been!? You think you can just disappear like that and not tell me?!" That voice sounds familiar for some reason, but its none of my business. Walking is much easier than I thought it would be and even seems more efficient than walking on two legs. I could hear Thief trying to explain to the female griffon some bull shit lie that he came up with on the spot for why he disappeared. How did I know the griffon was a woman? Lets just say a griffons tail doesn't cover much when its flicking around in the air.

The First Meeting

Author's Note

Oofta.. Whats with the rating dropping every update? Am i that bad? Oh well nothing i can really do about it, besides i'm mainly just doing this for practice anyway. I'll just keep drinking my tea and writing fanfics until I run out of ideas. Anyways peace peeps hope you enjoy, and if you don't then please tell me what i'm doing wrong.

The First Meeting

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

As I walked away from that nonsense I dragged my duffel bag up a flight of stairs heading to what I hoped was the ground floor. This was the only way that didn't lead to a dead end so I figured the portal led us to this buildings basement. I found a door at the top of the staircase that was most likely left open by the griffon in her rush for Thief. "Wait. How the hell did she know where he was!"

"Damn, are all of you Canterlot ponies this dumb?" I spun around to see the griffon from before smirking at me while a red faced Thief trailed behind. "Griffons are part eagle and part lion, we have traits of both. For instance when we loose sight of our prey and have been close enough to get a whiff of them," she glanced back at the blushing Pegasus. "we can track them down by scent. This one somehow evaded me until now and doesn't seem to want to tell me how. You're a horn head, must have been you using some stupid magic to hide him." She seemed to be trying to intimidate me, she was inches from my face with a heated scowl. I returned a bored look to show that I couldn't care less about what she had to say. "For both your sake and his I'd suggest you don't do it again."

"Why would I waste my time and effort helping someone I don't even know? Besides I doubt he would try to avoid you on purpose, his eyes haven't left your ass since you've been standing here. Now if that's all, I've got things to do." The griffon turned around and caught Thief staring just like I had said, I however took that as my chance to leave before things escalated. As soon as I was clear of the door it slammed shut behind me and I could hear him cussing me out for being a traitor. I can only guess at what his punishment would be, no matter what it is he deserves it.

I turn back around from the basement door to find that i'm in the middle of a lobby with several ponies staring at me and the noise coming from the other side of the door. Since I hate attention and would rather be ignored I said the first thing I could think of. "Don't ask me. They were horny and I was in the way so they tossed me out." Most turned away to talk about how indecent couples were these days, a few blushed and the rest just continued what they were doing. I went straight for the door and out into Canterlot to explore my surroundings and to figure out how to start my path to nobility.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Twilight Sparkle knew something was off about the way the princess was acting. She spent many years under her mentors tutelage and could tell when something was bothering her but for all her questioning she hadn't gotten a single straight answer. All she knew is that something was going on that made Princess Celestia both nervous and excited. Deciding it best to head home soon she remembered that there was a small library along the way that she had never been to. Whenever Twilight needed answers she went to the library, even if she knew the answer wasn't there she always found that reading helped her clear her head and think.

As she entered the small building an elderly stallion looked up from his book and greeted her with a smile and nod, she waved in return and started walking down the isles skimming through the titles. She didn't know what she was looking for so she continued until she saw something that caught her eye. She had passed many shelves without so much as a second glance until she ended up in the shelf that held the fiction books. She started to walk past without even checking the shelf as she always has in the past because those books only held falsities and nothing she could learn from. This time however something in her mind made her stop and a feeling arose in her that made her feel as though it would be a grave mistake to skip these books this time.

As she was about to look through the books the stallion from earlier walked up to place his book back on the shelf she now stood in front of. Just as he was about to return it to its rightful place on the shelf he paused to look at her before he spoke. "You look confused. Is there something I can help you with young lady?"

"Um, maybe? I don't normally read fictional books but I felt like I should give one a chance. Do you own this library?"

"The names Dusty Binding, but you can just call me Dusty. I'm afraid I do own this old building, for now at least." He held his forlorn expression for only a few seconds before regaining his professional smile. "If you're looking to give fiction a try i'd start with this one. I just finished and I feel its a good mix of myth, legends, and some truths that have been found behind the myths. It is probably the last book I will have ever read, and I'd like for you to have it. It's a good read from what my old eyes can see and I believe it to be the only copy. I found it at a book sale and even the mare I bought it from had no idea where she got it."

Twilight couldn't even imagine why he would give her this book but she accepted it nonetheless. "Thank you Mr.Binding I'll take care of this book and add it to my collection. Would it be okay for me to stay here and read for a while?"

With a small chuckle the old librarian nodded with a smile. "Take your time, I don't close down for a few hours anyway. I'll be getting back to dealing with the returned books so I'll be around if you need anything."

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

I had been wandering around for a few hours now and I'm no closer to finding a starter job or the information I was looking for. I had continued to try and concentrate of trying to use magic but no matter what I couldn't make it work. I was passing by some smaller shops when I saw a wrinkled old unicorn mare struggling with a stack of books in her magic. Every time she started trying to walk her magic would fizzle out and she would drop the books. With a sigh I walked over and put a hoof on her shoulder, "Here, let me help you with that ma'am."

"Oh no, you don't have to do that." Glancing away with a tired sigh of her own she frowned. "I'd actually be glad if you helped, its been a long day already and I'll never make it to the library before nightfall at this rate."

"You're returning these? So there's a library nearby then, if you show me the way I'll carry them for you."

"That would be wonderful, what's your name son?" She asked.

Fuck. I didn't think about that, my real name won't be taken well here. I'm going to need a name for myself if I'm going to be living here for the next month. I quickly glance at myself and see something I hadn't noticed before, I have no cutie mark. With no special talent I'll just have to name myself something, and if I'm going to be using this name it should have some meaning. Normally names here are related to a ponies special talent, and since I apparently don't have one I guess I'll name myself something from a hobby of mine. I like to build, play games, and go hiking. I could be Rusty Hinges, no fuck that. Broken keyboard, hell no. Got nothing for hiking, but I guess I do like to write on occasion. I have written out many short stories in recent years, there's just something about writing in a notebook with a regular wooden pencil that I enjoy. Pencil Mark? Nah, Lead Pencil. Do they have pencils here? I doubt it, I've only ever seen them use quills and ink. Then it came to me.

"Graphite Quill." It slipped out before I could give it any real thought, but it works well enough for my purposes. I then set about picking the books up one by one, with my mouth, and putting them in my duffel that I then threw back over my shoulder. The mare gave me an odd look but shook her head then started walking. A half an hour later we finally reached the library that she had mentioned.

"Thank you for the help Graphite Quill, I never would have made it on time if you hadn't come along. I can take the books in from here."

I didn't give her the chance to use her magic to retrieve the books from my pack. "I can take them inside for you, I wanted to visit a library today any-" Before I could reach the door or even finish my sentence the door burst open and a lavender unicorn mare practically ran right into me.

"Oh sorry I'm in a hurry I need to get to the princess right away!" She said after I stepped back out of her way. I couldn't believe it, I actually ran into one of my idols. Seeing her as she was now gave me some idea of the point in the timeline I had arrived in. She started to run down the street towards the castle to no doubt talk to Princess Celestia about some important business.

"Hey Twilight!" I said stopping her. "Teleporting would be much faster!" I yelled to her, she was surprisingly fast and had made it a good distance from us.

"Oh yeah! Thanks!" With that she disappeared with a flash. Hopefully she doesn't realize I called her by her name even though from her perspective I should have no way of knowing her.

"Friend of yours?" The elderly mare beside me asked. "She's a pretty young mare."

"We haven't formally met but I do know her. I suppose she is, but anyway lets get inside before they close." I still cannot believe I met Twilight Sparkle.

"Oh you don't have to worry about that I own this library, I left it open for anypony who needed a book while I was gone. I guess that mare found what she was looking for." We walked into the small building to find only books, no more ponies seemed to be inside except me and the owner.

"Do you work here all by yourself?" I asked.

"Yes, I have owned this place for many years with no problems but lately I've been having trouble with my magic as you saw earlier. First it was my sight that started failing me and now my magic. It's nearly impossible for me to keep up with everything these days." She said with a forlorn look.

This was allot of work for one old pony to handle by herself and I know its strange for me, but I kinda feel bad for this mare. The very young and the very old have always been able to make me feel compassion. "Um, I could help out if you'd like. I've actually spent most of my day trying to find a job. I'm not from around here, and only arrived earlier this morning." Technically I didn't lie.

The New Job

Author's Note

Now that I can focus on this story I should be putting out longer chapters, and maybe even update a bit more frequently. I'm damn tired right now, barely running on 4 hours of sleep in the last 24 hours. Took me about 4 hours for this chapter... Anyways as always feel free to let me know of any mistakes I made and i'll fix them. Peace out ponies, ima pass out now.

The New Job

I had just finished replacing the last of the books on the shelves when my new boss called me to the sitting area for a tea break. Sounds childish like a tea party but I don't care, I like good tea. We talked for a while about different things like past jobs, exciting trips we had taken, and other stuff like that. Eventually the questions started to get more personal like family, friends, and dreams. "The parents are doing fine as always, but I normally keep to myself so I never have the chance to make friends. Most find me to be to lifeless just because I don't want to waste my time on what they think is fun. As for dreams? I'm a bit conflicted on that subject." I paused a moment to think about how to word what I was thinking in a nice way. "I at one point wanted to join the local guard and to protect others, but I decided against it because of my parents constant reminders of how worried they would be if I joined. Now? The only thing I really enjoy doing is creating, rather it be writing stories or building things. I'm not sure I can really do anything with that though."

The old mare sipped her tea while holding the cup in her unstable magic before she placed it back on the table to talk. "Have you ever considered trying your hoof at becoming a published writer? I know some ponies that are always looking for fresh new minds to publish."

"I've thought about it in the past and thanks for the offer but I don't really like attention all that much. If I somehow became well know and others recognized me I'd have to move again." I actually kind of like it here most of the snobby ponies ignore me and leave me alone. I'm happy for that, it's going to be bad enough later on if my plans work out. "How about you? Do you have any family around here?"

"None here. My children ran off to see the world and the last I heard from them they were in the griffon kingdom. I'm just glad they are sticking together, it helps ease this old heart knowing they are looking out for each other. Their father passed a few years ago, I miss him so much. Dusty was a wonderful stallion and an amazing father to the boys, he was a wonderful help around the library. He always told me I shouldn't rely on my magic to do everything because it would be a hindrance to me once the ability started to fade with age." With a look of sadness and regret she tried to pick up her tea again only for it to wobble in place never making it off the table. "I should have listened to him. I would pass the advise to you but it seems you already know it. I don't believe i've seen you use magic once all evening. Pardon this old mare's curiosity but why haven't you used magic? You could have been finished with all the books in seconds."

This mare is smarter than she seems. The way she spoke seemed almost accusatory, as if she knew something but wanted confirmation. I sighed at the thought that my new boss could read me so easily. "I would have used my magic, but I don't know how. I can't even move a piece of paper let alone a whole book."

She wore a surprised look on her face like she couldn't believe that I, a unicorn, didn't know how to use magic. "How?"

Her question wasn't really fully formed but I understood her meaning. "Neither of my parents are magic wielders so I never had anyone who could teach me." Again that's not a lie, It's just not the whole truth. "However I hope to find a teacher who can help me learn while I'm here."

"I could teach you!" She said with a bright smile. "I had always hoped to have a unicorn foal with Dusty but the boys are both pegasi so I have never been able to pass on my knowledge of magic. If you'll allow, I'd like to be the one to teach you!"

With the excited look on her face how could I refuse.

Two Hours Later

I lay frustrated on the floor after making absolutely no progress whatsoever with my magic. Ms.Binding even decided to call it a day but she never lost her happy smile. She told me to stay and practice as long as I wanted but warned me that if it got too dark I wouldn't be able to find my way to where I was staying. Apparently Canterlot was nearly pitch black once the sun went down. I however 'forgot' to mention that I had nowhere to go and no money to stay anywhere, but she did say that I could stay as long as I wanted to practice. So that's what I'd do, 'practice' my magic until i 'accidentally' fell asleep in the library. I don't really like using her kindness like this but I'd rather not stay outside in a city like this.

Strangely enough I found a really comfy big pillow in a corner to use for a temporary bed. This was not how I expected my first day in Equestria to go, but it could have been worse. I lay down to get some sleep for an early start tomorrow hoping that I can learn how to use this useless bone on my forehead for more than just decoration.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

"Twilight my faithful student, you needn't worry of such things. You know I trust you completely, but you simply must stop reading from all those dusty old books. There's more to life than just studying all the time so I must ask you to see to the preparations for the summer sun festival that is going to be held in Ponyville this year. Can i trust you to handle this for me Twilight?" Celestia hated sending Twilight away so close to Luna's return but she had no choice. The young mare was going to grow old worrying about things she read in books. Regardless of the fact that she stumbled upon one of the last traces of evidence suggesting Nightmare Moon's return, Celestia didn't need her to snoop around for any more. 'He' would take care of Nightmare Moon and finally save her sister Luna.

"Yes Princess, you can count on me. What will you do about Nightm-" Twilight stopped at the Princess's raised hoof.

"I also have another objective for you. I want you to make friends. You'll be staying in the towns library during your time there. I'll have a chariot bring you there in the morning." Celestia said with a smile. She hoped that would keep her student busy and out of harms way.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

"ugh.. Why does my head hurt so much?" I groggily said to myself as I awoke the next morning. A quick look outside told me that my internal clock was still working, it was just starting to turn dawn. As I stood to stretch I heard movement from Ms.Binding's room. I quickly returned the pillow to where I had found it and quickly ran towards the door and waited to make it seem as though I had just arrived when she walked in.

"Nice try Graphite, I saw you sleeping here last night." Damn. I forgot that my new boss isn't a total moron like my last one. "If you need somewhere to stay, you can sleep in my sons room. Consider it part of your payment for working here and helping me." Damn that old woman and her smile.

"You really can see right through me can't you." It was more of a statement than a question but she nodded her head anyway. "Well I can't exactly say no. It will be much easier than finding somewhere with cheap rent and having to travel back and forth."

"Have you started practicing yet today? You already finished all the returns that I had let build up so we should be free to practice your magic all day today." I was about to ask if I could take a walk around the block to wake up but she suddenly got an excited look on her face and continued. "The summer sun festival is tomorrow morning! We might be able to make it if we get to the train early. I've seen it many times already but we could go watch if you would like. I think its being held in Ponyville this year."

I stood silent for a moment thinking about everything I had seen and heard since I arrived. Twilight is here in Canterlot without her group of friends, the summer sun festival is being hosted by Ponyville, and I've heard no mention of Princess Luna since I have been here. "The first episode." I spoke aloud by accident. "Uh, If its alright with you I'd rather we just stay and practice my magic." I don't want to be anywhere near Ponyville during this event or more specifically Nightmare Moon. Especially since I have no way to Protect myself.

She gave me a confused look, most likely because of my hesitation in answering but she agreed without any questions. We spent most of the day talking about magic with me understanding very little and her reassuring me that It would all make sense eventually. We took a break from my studies whenever another pony would come in searching for a book or returning one and I would take the time to try to concentrate on levitating a quill. Many hours and multiple headaches later I still haven't even gotten my horn to glow. I was starting to think that because I was a human turned pony that I simply could not use magic. Then I remembered Thief flying like it was nothing, and if I'm remembering correctly that also requires magic for it to be possible. Therefore I should also be capable of using magic, but I just can't 'feel' my magic like Ms.Binding said I should.

"Is there some way another unicorn could help me feel my magic? Say if they were to use their magic on me, shouldn't I be able to feel theirs and use that feeling to help me find my own? As it is now I don't have any idea what I'm looking for." The frustration was starting to help me think of possible solutions to my problem. I'm weird like that, the more annoyed I am the better I can understand the problem and think of solutions.

"Actually yes that is something that can and has been done in the past, but normally it is only used when a unicorn has had a magical backlash which can obscure their ability to feel their magic and cause them to forget how to conjure it. However I'm sorry to say that I cannot help with that. For this to work the unicorn with the ability to use magic must be of a similar or greater level of magical power. Even in my prime I could never measure up to your level of magic."

"Wait, how do you know how much magic I have when I can't even use it?" I said confused yet again.

"Even with as little magic as I have now, I can sense how much magic you hold. Unicorns can always sense the magic around them once they know what to look for. You Mr.Quill have huge potential. For instance you could easily hold you own against Princess Celestia's own star pupil Twilight Sparkle."

The Invention

Author's Note

OK. So my dumb-ass had to write this out 3 times. First was an absolute disaster and i just deleted everything to start again. The second time I was nearly done then by pure accident I for some reason hit (Ctrl+W) which is apparently a shortcut for closing out the current tab. FML. HOWEVER! It all worked out for the better with the third attempt, the last 12 paragraphs were absolutely horrible before the accidental tab closing. I'm happier with how it turned out in the end, even though it took for-fucking-ever for me to rewrite everything. Hopefully it was worth it to you guys as well. Peace peeps!

{T}

The Invention

Fuck. I have the same magical potential as Twilight, the mare that eventually becomes an Alicorn and yet I can't even lift a feather. I failed to realize how complicated magic would be, though it makes sense considering I'm not from this world. I'll just have to keep at it until I can find somepony that can help me feel my magic. Hopefully I can figure things out before the month is up and I have to go back through the portal. That is of coarse if it will even open with nobody on the other side to start the process. What if I'm stuck here? God I hope not, don't get me wrong this world is better but I still want to go back to my planet every once in a while. I mean how else am I going to get rich?

Currently I'm trying to figure out writing with a quill without magic. I'm pretty damn sure its impossible, so I'm going to stick with using one of the pens I brought with me. That is of course if I can figure out how to write with my mouth or hoof. I still don't understand how ponies use their hooves to pick stuff up, I blame magic. As I returned to the parchment with my favorite pen my boss passed by glancing at what I was holding, she then began to stare.

"Graphite? What is that you're scribbling with?" She said.

Ouch. I was trying to write my new name on the paper, I guess I need allot of practice. "This? Just a pen I made a few years ago using a wood lathe." Wait do they even have pens?

"But how.. You can't use magic! How are you writing in ink with that piece of wood?" Said the confused old mare.

I put the pen on the table and pushed it towards her. "The wood is just the outer casing, inside is a small tube filled with ink that dispenses a small amount of ink through the tip. Have you never seen one of these before?" I said hoping to confirm my suspicion of ponies lack of common technology from my world.

"No. I've never even heard of such a thing." She inspected the pen for a moment before asking, "May I try using it?" I nodded and she picked it up in her magic slowly writing her name out perfectly on the parchment next to my mess of an attempt. "Amazing! Such a small device makes it so much easier to write, and it seems sturdy enough that you wouldn't need to replace it after every page like you have to with quills. This is a genius invention Graphite! Have you Patented it yet?"

I did say I made this pen, but in reality I didn't come up with the idea. Though she makes a good point, if I patented the idea in this world I would probably make a killing in bits. "No I had never really given it any thought, its something I use on a regular basis so I guess I forgot that its the only one that exists. Do you know where I can go to legally make it my idea?"

"You have no idea how many ponies would kill to have one of these, if you patented this and started selling them you could be rich in no time! Most legal things are handled at the castle but I don't know where specifically. If I were you i'd set an appointment as soon as possible, but don't lose this!" She levitated the pen back down onto the table where I could reach it. "I hope i'm not asking too much of you but could you make another specifically for me? I'll pay you of course, I know it must take a while to make with no magic."

Actually I could give her one of the many others I have in my bag right now, but I don't want to get caught in a lie so i'll have to act as though i'm making another. "Its no trouble really. You're already paying me to work here so you don't need to pay me anything extra."

She creased her brow in concern before she said, "At least let me cover the patent fee, I hear its a bit costly. I can even give you the bits right away if you'd like to head there now, it should be rather quick and easy considering how late in the day it is."

With a sigh I accept her offer and watched as she left to get the money for the fee.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

I walked through the city heading towards the castle with the borrowed saddlebags on my back. Inside them was the pen, a crude drawing of the design, the bits for the patent fee, and a map of the city with the exact path to get back to the library drawn with my own pen. As per usual most ponies ignored me, the only ones who didn't were the guards but they would only nod as I passed. I made it to the main gate into the castle and told the guards my reason for entry, they insisted that two guards should accompany me so I don't get lost. It was most like to keep an eye on me but I was just happy to have someone leading me through this massive place.

Eventually I was led to a room full of shelves that were stuffed with random trinkets and in the center of the room a desk with several designs drawn out. The first guard asked me to wait while he left to retrieve the royal inventor, meanwhile the other guard stood outside the door. I found a comfy spot and sat down to wait for the inventor and wondering about how this was going to go. I didn't have to wait long as a few minutes later the door opened and a unicorn stallion that I recognized walked in. "Fancy Pants?"

"Yes, hello good sir have we met before? I'm sorry to say I don't seem to recall your name." I really need to learn to stop thinking out loud.

I held up my hoof in greeting. "I'd be surprised if you did, my name is Graphite Quill. We've never formally met but I've seen you around Canterlot. Pardon me for saying but I was surprised by your appearance, no offence but I didn't think you'd be the royal inventor." Technically true, I'd seen him in Canterlot in the show.

He shook my hoof then said, "None taken, you are correct I am not actually the inventor but merely a stand in while he is being treated for a rather nasty case of poison joke. Sompony thought it would be a good idea to test their poison joke purifier for the first time in the midst of getting it patented!" He chuckled then pulled out a quill and parchment. "Now, what is it you brought? I'd be happy to take a look at it as long as it's not poison joke related! HA"

"Well I brought something that is hopefully going to replace that flimsy little feather and ink pot that you just brought out." I said pulling out the pen and the sketched design. "This is what I call a pen. Inside this wooden casing is a small tube of ink which is attached to the point where there is a small free rolling ball that gets coated in the ink. When lightly pressing the point to paper the ball evenly distributes the ink with no messy streaks and no accidental spilled ink pots. Here give it a try and tell me what you think."

He picked up the pen with a skeptical look on his face as he put the quill down. In fast fluid movements he started writing his notes about the pen, with the pen. He barely wrote anything down before his jaw dropped and he looked up at me with an awestruck look on his face. His immense reaction at something so simple reminded me that I need to be careful with what I bring into this world.

"I.. How... I must show this to somepony immediately!" He jumped up suddenly and ran through the door startling both me and the posted guard. Fancy always seemed trustworthy in the show so I followed after him at a brisk trot with the guard not far behind us. A short run later we arrived at a set of intricately carved wooden doors, a large sun emblazoned across both doors. As he knocked on the door he and the guard were both breathing heavily as if they had run a mile. Fancy i can understand he's a noble why would he ever run anywhere? The guard though is a different story, a two minute run and he's about to pass out. Don't they train these guys? This one could barely be considered royal guard as far as i'm concerned.

Just before I was able to go off on the guard I heard the door open and saw his face freeze with wide eyes. I turned to see none other than the beautiful Princess Celestia herself standing there in all her glory.

"Fancy? Is something wrong? Who is this stallion you brought with you?" She spoke in a regal voice.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

That wen't surprisingly well, i'm pretty sure we all came out on top of this deal. Celestia obtained something to make her time spent on paperwork lower by a large margin, I got 'my' pen idea patented, and Fancy? Well Fancy was just excited by all the possibilities that came with the production of 'such a wondrous device' in his words not mine. I doubt he even noticed that I was very blatantly hitting on his princess or the fact that she was flirting right back. I figured I would have to wait while to find a sponsor for my product but Celestia offered to pay for the production of my pens from her own pocket. All she wanted of the profit was the reimbursement of the bits she put into the making of the them, and the rest of the profit was to go directly to me. I obviously took that deal, anyone else would want in on the profit but she had no use for it considering she's a princess.

I only have one place to stop on the way home, the bank. I needed to open an account for my future revenue using the sealed parchment Celestia gave to me after all the paperwork was done. She said the scroll would tell the bank everything they needed to know about the incoming funds. She also said that I would receive a letter when the first batch of pens was made and that I should return to check them for defects. I would also decide on what they would cost when put on the market. As a last thought just before I left I said "Then maybe if you're free after we can go somewhere private to talk about more of my ideas." The meaning behind that was not lost on her, she simply smirked and waved as I walked out of the castle.

The First Episode

Its happening, the first major event that starts Twilight's great adventure. Nightmare Moon has returned and all is quiet in the darkness of the late morning. Canterlot is surprisingly empty of ponies right now, nopony is willing to leave their homes in fear of being harmed by whatever is causing the mid-day darkness. I woke up fairly early to an odd feeling in my head and my boss freaking the fuck out about it still being dark. Ms.Binding tried to get me to stay inside but I left anyway knowing that it would be safe enough here, the real danger was happening in Ponyville or rather the Everfree Forest. I always wondered what the fuck Princess Celestia was doing during all this and I intended to find out. Even as I walked down the street past guard stations I didn't see a single guard, or civilian. This could either mean they are all hiding, or they are all on guard at the castle protecting the princess. If this were a different world I'd bet on the latter but with ponies you never know, Some days they're brave, other days they hide from their own shadow.

Considering how the rest of the city was a ghost town I was actually fairly surprised when I found a pony outside the front gates of the castle sitting with a painting easel and partially painted canvas. The mare had light grey fur and a yellow/blond mane with two purple steaks. She honestly kind of reminded me of an earth pony version of Derpy, Ponyvilles mail mare.

Without looking the mare spoke over her shoulder in a deadpan voice. "You will not get if you are here for an appointment. The guards have barred the door in case of an attack." She then turned to look at me with a look of boredom and said, "However if you are intent to continue to stare at me then you will quickly find out how little there is to see."

These types of people have always intrigued me, they either have little to no emotion or just don't show it like others do. I have to wonder if this one is related to Maud Pie in any way. "Well I was actually planning to go talk to Princess Celestia but I think I'd rather stay just to talk to you. After all a pretty mare like yourself needs somepony to keep you company."

"No actually I do not need company, that is after all why I chose this strange midday darkness to come out and paint the castle. However I don't care what you do with your time as long as you keep your flirtation to yourself and keep interruptions to a minimum." With that she returned to her painting with the brush held in her hoof.. How in the hell does that work? It's a hoof! There's nothing to grip with, it just shouldn't be possible.

"How are you doing that? I've always wondered how ponies hold stuff with their hooves."

"You are a unicorn. You can use magic so why does this," She held up the brush "even matter to you?"

"I'm just curious is all. I've never been able to get it to work." Just like my forehead growth I haven't been able to pick anything up except with my mouth. Which is disgusting by the way, books taste horrible.

She stopped painting and looked back at me with the same blank expression as before. "It is not that hard to do. Here, try to take the brush."

I decided to give it a shot even though I already know whats going to happen. I walked over reaching out to grab the brush, concentrating on trying to activate whatever the fuck kind of magic allows ponies to do the impossible, and watched as it promptly hit the ground. Fuck magic, this shit just does not work.

"You are trying way too hard. Just pick it up, don't think about it just do it." She then grabbed another brush and continued to paint as if I weren't there. I decided to leave the mare be to finish her painting in peace. Any time somepony other than my boss talks about how easy magic is it just pisses me off because I'm not a regular pony and it's not easy for me. I've tried just about everything I could think of from movies, books, and even MLP fan fictions but still can't figure this shit out.

I wandered around near the castle looking for an alternate way in that wasn't being guarded but I gotta say this place is pretty much impenetrable, unless you can fly that is. Believe it or not somepony left a window wide open next to a balcony. Not that it helps me any, damn that lucky bastard thief and his wings. Since the castle is on lockdown and nothing is open I'm only left with one option. Back to the library for me.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

My boss hugged me. It had been about 4 hours since I had woken up when I made it back to the library and she was apparently very worried. I sometimes forget how hyperemotional and touchy-feely these ponies are, I mean we barely know each other and yet she almost cried with joy when she saw that I was unharmed. When she asked about what is happening outside I told her about everything that I saw, which was basically nothing, and even the earth pony painter. She laughed when hearing about the conversation I had with the painter, and then even more when I mentioned the part about how frustrated I was that I couldn't do something so 'simple' as picking up stuff with my hoof.

"I was wondering why you always used your mouth for everything, you really can't use magic at all can you. I really don't know what to tell you, nearly all ponies are able to use their hooves like that from birth. You're an odd pony Graphite."

"You don't know the half of it." I grumbled as I headed back to the room I'm staying in for the time being. Just as I was about to open the door to my room something strange happened. The air just started, I don't know, vibrating? Pulsing? It was fucking weird.

"GRAPHITE! Was that you?!?" I could hear my boss yell in surprise. I turned to see her coming around the corner towards me at a surprising speed for a mare her age. "That was a strong magic pulse. Did you do that? "

"No but I felt that. Wait look." I said gesturing with my head towards the window. "The sun is rising again. She did it." We looked outside to see the sun rise to its normal position. I'll have to ask the Princess what went down on the off chance I somehow changed the story line.

-=-=-=-=-=-The Next Day=-=-=-=-=-

There's a big event going on in Canterlot later to welcome Princess Luna back into power, and I'm not missing this. I need to see Luna in person or rather in pony I guess. I doubt I will ever get the chance to talk to her but hey, a stallion can dream right? The boss is coming as well which is why we are leaving so early to give us plenty of time to get there and find a good spot. Nothing really happened on the way there and my boss was mostly quiet so I spent the time wondering whats going to happen during this event. This is all new to me, though it wasn't really a surprise when I got the invitation. This was never in the show so I'm back to not knowing whats happening until the Grand Galloping Gala which is no big deal to me since I'm avoiding the episodes.

Speaking of the gala, yes I plan on going. Why? So I watch the chaos of coarse! How am I getting a ticket? Um.. Beg Celestia? Fuck if I know, I'm not noble nor do I have the money to afford something like a ticket for such an event. I might just sneak in, it should be easy enough if I wait until the shit starts hitting the fan. Anyways one thing at a time it will be a while before that comes up.

We arrived at the castle to see the outside area decked out with decorations related to the moon and stars along with banners that have Luna's cutie mark embroidered onto them. I left my boss to find us a couple of seats while I explored the castle grounds. Since there's an event going on guards only kept people from the castle itself allowing everyone to roam free so I'm taking advantage of the situation. I'm hoping to make nice with some of the staff for informational purposes considering that they usually overhear important meetings, and they might let some helpful info slip during conversation. I like to be prepared in case shits about to go down so finding a way to get info directly from the castle would be awesome.

So far everypony has been rushing around getting things prepared or helping other guests and I haven't been able to talk to any of the workers for more than a minute. It seemed pointless to keep trying at the time. Though not long after I started heading back to my boss I heard a voice I wasn't expecting. "Dude! What are you doing here?!"

I turned to see, I shit you not, Thief standing behind me wearing a full set of royal guards armor. Who the fuck let this guy join the guard, and why the fuck did they let this guy carry a short sword?! I just stared dumbfounded until an idea popped into my head. "You didn't steal that armor did you?" I said.

"Really? That's the first thing you say to me when you see me." He said with a scowl shaking his head. "No. It was given to me yesterday morning when I got caught sneaking into the castle. Now before you start, I was not trying to steal anything I was getting Gilda out of trouble. She was arrested for being on the Princess's balcony when the sun didn't rise yesterday."

"So you broke Gilda out of captivity after she was getting ready to steal something. OK whatever, but that still doesn't explain how you were 'given' armor."

"The captain gave me the armor because I managed to slip into a window and get Gilda out without anyone noticing other than him. He caught me just as we were leaving and offered me a spot in the special guard doing missions that require secrecy. I asked why he would offer me that and he said it was, and I quote, 'amazing that you managed to get past the best of the best without anypony knowing.' After that I asked about the pay, about shit myself at the wage, then accepted the offer, and now here I am."

I swear this mother fucker is cheating, first he can fly therefor use some magic and now he was given a high paying job after BREAKING INTO A CASTLE! This world must hate me. I can't use magic, work at a library, and have to use my mouth to carry stuff because I can't even do simple stuff that foals can do. I blame magic.

The Princesses

Author's Note

Boop! I finally managed to kick my lazy ass into gear and write some more, hope you enjoy this slightly shorter chapter. Time is going to start flowing a bit faster in the next few chapters, for instance several days will pass in one chapter and maybe a week will pass in another. Just hang in there for the next chapter, I don't know when i'll get the time to write more so ya.. Anyways peace my fellow pones! P.S I am not a Celestia hater and neither is the story's Graphite. Her obliviousness to her sisters problems will play a part later on. {T}

The Princesses

Princess Luna sat paralyzed with fear while awaiting her execution. She could hear all the ponies outside plotting their revenge against her and laughing at her soon-to-be demise. Or so she thought. In reality the ponies were all celebrating the return of the once wayward princess and awaiting the ceremony with glee. While it is true that some are uncertain of her and her goals as a princess, none hated her as much as she thought they all did.

"Sister how can thee be certain they will not attack us?" Luna thought with uncertainty as she continued to shiver in place waiting for her cue.

"Lulu we've talked about this, they do not hate you. I won't lie, some are going to be afraid of you at first but you just have to give them time. My little ponies are not as 'sturdy' as they used to be, they will be more afraid of you than you of them." Celestia thought to her sister hoping to cheer her up. It did not help. "Are you ready? Your time to shine is only a few sentences away!"

"We are ready sister." Unbeknownst to her sister, Luna was hurt by the thought of ponies being afraid of her. She sat in tears hoping to be able to put on a mask of happiness for her sisters sake.

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

I sat next to my boss three rows from the front trying to ignore the idiot in armor waving at me from the other side of the courtyard. Ms.Binding noticed my scowl but decided to focus on the speech, for the moment anyways. She tends to ask the most difficult questions for me to answer so i'm expecting another round of twenty questions after this event. I've learned that when she wants answers she gets them, though they are not always complete answers on my part.

I honestly expected this to be a bit more exciting but so far its been pretty boring, I guess I know why the mane six didn't show. I mainly came to see Princess Luna in person but I'm hoping to get a chance to talk to Celestia about 'my' pen idea. If i were a lucky man I might get the chance to talk to Luna, but who am I kidding. Me? Lucky? Not a chance.

The speaker on stage had just finished telling everypony what happened in the Everfree Forest with the mane six when something strange happened. I felt a familiar tingle in the back of my head, similar to what i felt the day before when the sun returned. I knew that it was magic of some sort so I latched onto the feeling on the off chance that it was my magic trying to do something. Nothing happened physically but I could have sworn I heard a voice whispering in my head. It was too quiet to hear exactly what was said but I caught 'be certain' and 'ready sister' or something like that. To say that I was freaked out would be an understatement.

I didn't have very long to think over what I had hear before Princess Luna walked out on stage. She had an obviously strained smile on her face and a stiff gait that told me she did not want to do this. I don't blame her, I however do blame Celestia. I mean how thick can you be? Your sister returns after a thousand lonely years of banishment for crimes the Nightmare forced her into, and you throw a big event the next day forcing her to talk in front of an entire city. This helps me understand why Luna allowed the Nightmare in, Celestia simply does not think about her sibling's feelings.

She spoke in the royal voice saying that she was happy to be back and all the political crap. Definitely a speech written by her sister. Then afterwards Celestia spoke of some random shit that I didn't pay attention to because I was busy watching Luna glance at the crowd. Every time she looked out to the ponies in the crowd she seemed to shrink into herself a little bit at a time. I hoped this would be over before she broke down in front of everyone, dammit Celestia pay attention for once. Just as I was starting to get frustrated she looked my way, I waved to get her attention directed at me and gave her an apologetic smile and nod hoping to let her know I understood her situation. Her reaction was only slightly different in the way that she held my gaze for a bit longer than she had with the other random ponies.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Against her earlier beliefs Luna survived. She managed to put on a brave face for her sister and remember the prepared speech even through the fearful guilt she felt. The royal mare was ready to return to her room and cry herself to into a fitful rest, while her sister Celestia conversed with the nobles. She wanted no part of that exchange. They had ignored Luna completely and walked straight to Celestia in order to congratulate her on her sisters return. If Luna was honest with herself she would admit that she preferred to be left alone, it was easier than watching them shake on their hooves and stutter every word. It was her hope that she would be forgotten by everypony other than her sister so that she may stay in her room indefinitely.

However fate had other plans and shattered her hope with a simple greeting from a unicorn stallion. He wore glasses, had forest green fur and a faded blue mane. He was the one pony she had seen in the entire crowd that had shown signs of seeing through her mask of happiness, the one she felt understood her even better than her older sister.

"Good morning Princess Luna." He said without a stutter, bowing with a calm ease. "I do hope I am not overstepping any boundaries by saying this, but everypony makes mistakes. Its how we handle the aftermath that matters not what we did, please believe me when I say this." He looked directly into her eyes without an ounce of fear in his own. "Things will get better, but only if you allow them to." Luna was far too flustered to realize that she had teleported to her room leaving a confused stallion in her wake.

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

Great. Fucking. Job. Idiot! Thirty seconds and you already made the best princess red faced with anger and teleport away. After that train wreck of a first impression I decided to try to find a gap in Celestia's entourage so I can ask about my patented idea. However I did not need to go far as she had dismissed the nobles and was B-lining straight towards me with a horribly masked scowl. Assuming she saw the interaction with her sister I figured she was coming over to castrate me. After a quick apology to my current bodies unused bits I figured it would be best if I took it like a man and stood my ground.

"Mr.Quill, I see you made it past my guards and even met my sister. While I am curious how you made it back stage I am much more concerned about what exactly you said to PRINCESS Luna to make her flee so quickly." Even though she kept her tone pleasant I was freaking the fuck out. She is one scary mare when she wants to be.

I managed to keep my cool on the outside for the most part, at least I hope so. "I was simply offering some consolation but I'm afraid I may have said something wrong. Please let Princess Luna know that I am deeply sorry for what I said and that I hope she would be willing to forgive me." Her scowl seemed to soften a little as she asked why I came back here. I explained and we started to talk about the production of the pen. Then that bitch lady luck said 'fuck you' and sent the worst possible pony to interrupt us just as she was about to bring me up to date with what's happening with 'my' pen idea.

"Aunty! Why are you letting this inbred commoner talk to you as if he were important?!" Prince 'Blueballs' Blueblood trotted up practically yelling about impure hillbillies or some shit. I don't really know what all he said because I was desperately trying to get my magic to work just once so I could set him on fire, or make his dick fall off. I would have been happy with either one but neither happened.

I have to give credit where its due though, Celestia kept a straight face while waiting for him to shut the fuck up. Once he did she dropped both of our jaws with what she said. My face spread into the biggest grin I've ever felt, and the 'Prince' walked away with his head down more silent than he has probably ever been in his life.

Celestia had said "Nephew I'd be more careful if I were you, he may not be a noble yet but that is only because you interrupted me. I was only just about to bestow him with a title that is at the same rank as yours, though not Prince, it gives him just as much of a right to be here as you have. In just two days he has made enough bits to buy you out of your room in the castle. I'd be careful not to insult those that are your equal."

Apparently I should check in with the bank more often. As it turns out some random griffon diplomat caught wind of the creation of my pens and completely bought out the batch that was just made along with the next two that hadn't even been made yet. Why you ask? Griffons are tired of pulling out another feather every time a quill breaks, and he wanted to capitalize on my idea. Shouldn't I be the one to decide on if he could resale my product? I really do not understand this world sometimes. Who cares, I'm rich! Oh and Lady Luck? I'm sorry for calling you a bitch, If you were a real person or pony I'd kiss you right now!

The Futures Past and Noble Beginnings

Author's Note

FFS when I get going hours pass and I don't even notice.. Anyways pones here's another chapter in Quill's story, and as always constructive criticism is always welcome so feel free to comment! Peace pones! {T}

The Futures Past and Noble Beginnings

-=-=-=-=- Canterlot Castle -=-=-=-=-

Unbeknownst to either royal sister, both had the same stallion invade their thoughts since the celebration of Luna's return two weeks prier. Luna was thinking of a certain Graphite Quill, the new noble, that was more observant than most. He saw through her facade and right into the heart of her problem, her guilt. He even tried to cheer her up when nopony else knew anything was wrong. Luna felt only slightly happier knowing somepony understood her feelings on the matter, however his words are what made him the target of her reverie. She felt the need to talk to him and that concerned her considering her current aversion to conversation. She was actively avoiding her sister and all others yet her mind would not give up on the possibility meeting Graphite again. It didn't help that he wrongly assumed that she left because she was mad at him, it was in fact quite the opposite.

Celestia, after many questions directed towards the new bearers of the elements, was unable to figure out how the otherworldly stallion helped with Luna's return. According to Twilight and her friends nopony else was there during the battle, but she knew that he had helped somehow. She was currently in her study placing shields around the room in preparation for a memory spell that her pupil perfected. It was a spell that was originally created by Starswirl The Bearded himself, although he was never able to finish it Twilight figured out how to make it work.

Finishing the final preparations and seals Celestia sat in the center of the room concentrating on directing the memory of Starswirl's death to the surface. 'There.' With the memory found she pulled the memory from a deep dark space in her mind and out into the open for the spell to take effect. The spells purpose was to allow a pony to relive the chosen memory as a silent bystander, had the shields not been placed any nearby would also be affected and live it as if they were there. The room faded from her vision to be replaced with the courtyard of their old home from a thousand years before. As the image sharpened she started to hear the sounds of battle, the clashing of steel and shouts of pain causing her ears to ring.

She watched herself standing tall against the threat that was her very own sister turned Nightmare Moon. Celestia watched as her past self activated the elements banishing the possessed mare to her prison for the next thousand years. As the elements were about to return to the pedestal they suddenly circled in front of her past self spinning faster and faster as a voice rang out for all nearby to hear. A voice she remembered from long ago when she was just a filly.

"He will arrive from another plane of existence and with his arrival balance will be restored as the moon princess rises once again. Succeeding his arrival many great evils will threaten the land but you will always overcome each obstacle. Trust in my words for they are true, be warned each evil will be more powerful than the last but you must have faith." With that Celestia cut off the flow of magic and let the memory fizzle out with the spell.

'The time has come Starswirl my friend. It's happening just the way you said it would, I only wish I knew what happened to you. I hope to meet the one you spoke of, so that I may thank him for his help in returning my sister.' Little did she know she had already met him.

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

"Have I mentioned I'm rich yet?" I asked my boss.

"Only about a thousand times. I've half a mind to kick you out on the street now that you can afford your own home." I may have spent the last two weeks reminding her about my fortune every time I saw her. I think she is a little annoyed. "Speaking of, why haven't you found a place of your own yet? Now don't get me wrong I do enjoy your help and company but you can stay anywhere in the city yet you choose to stay here sleeping on a dusty old bed."

"I have my reasons for staying, main one being I have all I need here. A roof over my head, a bed, and plenty of reading material." I said while placing more books on the shelves. "Plus a beautiful mare that is teaching me about magic." I said with a smirk.

"Oh hogwash! You can afford the help of any unicorn in the city, hay you can probably even get Princess Celestia's help with your magic!"

"While true I'd rather not ask sunbutt for that when she's got a sister that needs her right now. Plus its too much of a hassle to explain to someone else what I do and don't know about magic, especially since this thing won't work." I tapped my horn then continued, "Besides, I know how much you'd miss me if I left."

My boss only rolled her eyes at the last part deciding to put the conversation away for the moment. As we finished the last of the returns in silence I noticed that I had placed some books out of order. Cursing under my breath I reordered them hoping my mistake went unnoticed. I have been rather distracted lately however I'm not sure I should admit the reason to anyone, and so far have been able to hide it. I've been hearing whispers of voices that sound familiar but not at the same time. I always get the same feeling when it happens, the tingle I felt at Luna's celebration was only the beginning.

-=-=-=-

Some time later I was walking around Canterlot avoiding the highly populated areas in favor of the 'commoner' routes to avoid attention. Word spreads fast around here, as soon as I left the celebration after Celestia gave me my title I was bombarded with questions and proposals by every noble that saw me. What type of proposals? Business deals, along with some mares AND stallions asking for my hoof in marriage. I noped the fuck outta there and have been avoiding other ponies at all costs. The more I thought about it the more it annoyed me that I couldn't just use my magic to get where I wanted or even just disguise myself, but I've got a 'limp' horn that won't work no matter what I do.

Something else has been on my mind as well and I really don't know what to do about it. I am MAJORLY attracted to the pony physique. I have yet to get it on with a mare cause I have no fucking clue if I'm okay with the idea. One head says 'Oh hell ya!' the other head says 'I ain't fuckin' no horse' if you catch my meaning. Also spoiler alert, dick size does not change. Yep, I know it sucks, but no giant horse cock for me. Unless My pony body is much smaller than I realized, I'll most likely be laughed at unless I hold onto my urges just a few more days. I almost lost it when Fluer offered me her bed for some and I quote 'stress relieving exercises' she learned from her homeland.

I almost regret not being able to sleep more than 6 hours, I have nothing to do these days and walking around as a noble is dangerous. Oh not for me, no. It's dangerous for everyone else. I have anger issues and while it takes me a long time to lose my temper, magic or no magic, I will fuck some ponies up if they keep pestering me. I have always kept on a light sleep schedule because of my job and hobbies taking up so much of my time, and sleeping less gives me time for 'stress relieving exercises'. I didn't always keep to that schedule though and at times slept 12 hours if I had a free day, but now? I physically am unable to stay asleep for more than 6 hours. It seems like exactly 360 minutes after I fall asleep I wake up wide eyed and no matter how long I wait I cannot fall back asleep until nightfall. It's a confusing problem that started, yet again, around the same time as Luna's celebration.

The upside to all this, besides being rich? I've gotten to be very adept at moving this pony body of mine. Turns out that dodging or sneaking around lusty mares and brown nosing nobles has helped me with my stealth. I can now practically smell the money lust of the nobles and avoid them without them even getting near me, maybe my magic is helping? Ha, not a chance. I've got an impotent horn that might as well just be a fashion accessory.

This poses the question will I be able to get back to Earth? There's only a mirror on this side with nothing powering it, and hell, I don't even know if it's possible to get back from this side. Though it should be possible considering that the mirror had to have come from here, magic shit doesn't exist back there. I should really go and see about getting that mirror moved to a more accessible location, if it is still there. I'd rather not have to ask about the mirror, after all it was in the employees only area, so maybe I can hire someone to get it for me. I think I know just the stallion for the job. Oh ya! Did I mention that I'm rich?

The Mirror Thief

Author's Note

It's a bit short but eh its progression. sorta... Allergies suck. {T}

The Mirror Thief

Finding Thief took a lot less effort than I thought, by which I mean I did absolutely nothing. No shit the guy found me on one of my walks and practically tackled me with questions. Though I know I'm going to regret it later I'm bringing him to the library to 'catch up' on everything that has happened since coming here. The guy will not shut up, hes been talking since I invited him over. Cutting him off mid ramble I said "OK we're here, wait outside." Leaving the armor clad Pegasus behind I walked in and right up to my boss. "Do you know any spells to mute somepony?"

"Hey I heard that!" Came a voice from outside.

At my bosses confused expression I let out a sigh of exasperation. "Nevermind, with as much as he talks it should be easy enough make him bite his own tongue off."

Thief came inside looking between me and my boss before settling a glare on me. "I can still hear you, you ass! Why do you always have to be mean?"

"You deserve it. Anyway Ms.Binding this is the idiot I told you about before, the one that let me back stage at the celebration."

"The one you said you knew from where you lived before you came here?" She asked and I nodded. She looked to him and asked "Where was it you two came from again?" Oh crap, did I tell her I was from some place in Equestria? If i did and forget but he says somewhere different, we might have some explaining to do.

Thief seemed to come to the same conclusion and looked to me for an answer. He panicked a bit when I shrugged then he stuttered out an answer. "B-baltimare!" We both sat still waiting for a reaction.

After looking between us a few times she smiled and chuckled. "That explains this ones temper and attitude. He never talks about himself and always deflects any questions about his past."

Phew, dodged a bullet there.

-=-=-=-=-=-

We chatted for a while about some of the things that have happened to us lately and eventually my boss left to run some errands. This left Silent and I to talk more openly about whats really been going on lately. Who's this 'Silent' guy you ask? Thief, the very same human I pushed into the portal, named himself Silent Whispers. Silent. Whispers. I lost it when he told us his pony name, my boss was confused at my laughter but thankfully didn't question me before she left.

Anyways Silent,*snort* sorry still funny, told me about how lax security really was in the castle and how he basically had free rein to do whatever he wanted unless he was needed. From what I gather his job is basically secret mission type stuff like espionage, he would gather info by infiltrating enemy territory. In other words he's a spy that acts like a guard when not on a mission. Kinda cool I have to admit but I still question the sanity of his captain for giving a potential threat a job within the castle. However that can work in my favor if he is willing to do a few jobs for me, my plans have changed a bit.

"So Silent, have you thought about doing a little extra side work?" I decided to get right to the point. "I'm sure with your abilities and rank in the guard many ponies would be willing to hire you."

"Nopony has ever offered, but I guess depending on the job I might be ok with the extra work. Though I do have to think of my status as a guard so I can't do anything illegal if that's what you're asking." He knows me so well already.

"The job I'm offering is simple and easy, plus it benefits us both. The mirror. I need you to retrieve it from that buildings basement."

"So you're asking me to risk my job for stealing a mirror?" Silent sneers.

"It's THE mirror, and no not steal, buy. If I go in there to buy the mirror ponies will wonder how I knew about it which could cause me problems. However if you went in were to convince them that Celestia wants the mirror, they'd sell it to you in a heartbeat with no questions asked. They practically worship her, It would be easy trust me."

"You scare me sometimes, you know that right? You always act like everypony is out to get you when in reality this is a damn near peaceful world filled with naive and trusting ponies. I know you think I'm a bad guy but you're wrong. I don't want to lie any more than I already have to, so go find yourself another lackey." With that Silent stood and left, leaving me with my thoughts for about ten seconds before he came back into the library. "Oh and if you do get that mirror back in time for the portal to open, just leave. I've found my home."

The Magic Man Pt.1

Author's Note

Phew, the urge to write hit me hard today so here we are. I believe it had something to do with the fact that I called in to work last night to go walk around town with some people. Lets just say I had fun with all the merriment & mischief, plus we didn't get arrested so that's good. No but really though I had allot of fun for once and I'm in a good mood so maybe possibly part 2 of this tomorrow? Hopefully. Peace pones! {T}

P.S. Wow 2k words I'm honestly surprised. GJ ME!

The Magic Man Pt.1

It had been two months since the disappearance of the mirror much to the aggravation of the human turned pony, Graphite Quill. With only days left until the planned return to Earth he decided to just outright buy it from the owner of the building, fate however had other plans for the mirror. When Graphite inquired about the mirror, the manager informed him that somepony already bought it but never left their name. He was not pleased.

The new resting place of the magic mirror remains unknown to all but three ponies, Celestia, Luna, and Twilight Sparkle. Celestia, after having talked with Twilight, found the mirror to be the source of the fluctuation in magic and purchased the unique decoration in the hopes of meeting the savior from another world. Celestia had placed a spell on the building in question after the second pulse and her talk with Twilight. The spell revealed the origin of the magic to be the mirror, she only wished she had arrived quick enough to meet him that day.

Celestia had hoped to force the savior into a confrontation by taking the mirror, even going as far as locking it in her study with spells that would only allow her entrance. Much to her chagrin he has yet to make an appearance and there has been no pulses since. In her mind she thought he would have tried to use it again since it had been activated once a month three months in a row. The identity of the savior will continue to evade her it seems.

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

"Now, I know you prefer physical practice over a lecture but we need to talk about limitations. Even the most powerful unicorns have limits, the princesses included. There are two parts to this so pay attention. Everypony has different limitations rather it be in the power of the spells they can cast, or the longevity of spells. Some can cast high lever spells that most ponies can't but at the cost of mental exhaustion. Others can only cast low level spells but keep them going indefinitely. I'll give you the same example I was given in my youth."

"Are you sure you want to give me such outdated ideas?" I interrupted with a smirk.

"Oh ha ha Mr.Quill, do I need to give you another time out? Unless you'd rather me teleport a dress onto you next time you go on one of your walks." Mrs.Binding said while returning a smirk of her own.

"So about that example you mentioned!" This is always how it was between me and her during my magic lessons. Its my way of distracting myself from losing hope in myself ever gaining use of my horn. She knows its all in jest and I'm pretty sure she enjoys the minor teasing in our conversations.

"I thought so. Now as I was saying, imagine all you magic is a bathtub full of water. Every spell you cast takes some of that water from the tub, sometimes its a little scoop and sometimes its a bucket full depending on the spell. This bathtubs faucet is constantly running to steadily refill the tub, so if you cast too many 'bucket sized' spells like teleportation the tub will empty and you will have to wait for it to refill. The reason most if not all unicorns can cast levitation spells is because when carrying small items their reserves tend to fill faster than what's being used, however larger items use more magic to move so keep that in mind."

"So how can somepony tell how big their 'tub' is and how much 'water' is coming from the faucet?" I ask in curiosity.

"That's something that can only be figured out by the unicorn in question through practice. Other unicorns can however use their own magic to get a general idea of another's potential like I did in the beginning. If I were to guess I'd say you could cast some high level magic like teleportation and be fully recharged in seconds. As I said, this is only a guess going off of the amount of overflow coming from you. To put it simply, you could cast any low to mid level magic without reaching the point of exhaustion unless you were multi-casting several spells. Honestly you have great potential and would be highly sought after by the Equestrian Military, once you can use your magic that is."

"As tempting as that would be I think I'll leave that up to the professionals and the elements." The mane six have been rather busy in Ponyville from what I hear, and so far everything is staying true to the show thankfully. Last I heard there was a commotion about a witch aka Zecora which means I've made it to episode nine of season one, up next is the invasion of wannabe pixies aka parasprites. I have half a mind to send a book about parasprites to Twilight's library just to save them the trouble.

"Didn't you mention once that you wanted to be a guard, what changed?" My boss asked.

"I'm rich. I'm planning on living a nice cushy lifestyle from now on."

"In other words you've decided to be lazy."

"You know it. I think I'm done with studies for the day Ms.B, I'm feeling like taking a walk up to the castle."

"Well alright If that's what you want to do have fun. Next time we'll talk more about spell limitations, mainly the things that magic can not do no matter how powerful you are."

-=-=-=-

I made it to the castle without issue and began my usual path around the courtyard, I always go the same route to avoid getting lost, again. Having been making a constant flow of bits I am welcome everywhere in or around the castle because of my rank of nobility. The ponies nobility system is strange, basically your rank is determined by how much you make in a month. I'm not sure if there is some kind of tax being taken for said rank but if there is then I haven't noticed. Nobles of the higher ranks are able to make requests that are directly decided upon by the Princesses themselves, hence Blueblood constantly asking for stupid shit. Apparently he asked Celestia for a statue of his dick the be placed outside his room. It got denied for obvious reasons, besides nopony would be able to carve something so small.

I personally have never made a request as I don't really need anything legally done and my fortune can pay for whatever I could need. As I was passing the discord statue I got an idea, the light bulb appearing over my head kind of idea like in cartoons. I started to turn and look for a guard when I realized I literally had a lit light bulb floating over my head. "The fuck is this shit?" Looking up at the bulb for whatever reason caused it to disintegrate into sparkly glitter that spread out and covered my fur. Considering that I'm standing next to stone Discord and I've read hundreds if not thousands of fanfics I had a pretty good guess where this was going. "For fucks sake Discord really? Glitter?" I say looking up to the statue.

His stone figure suddenly closed its mouth and raised a finger to its lips. "SHHHHH! I'm supposed to be trapped here unable to speak or use magic." Said Discord as he returned to his original position.

"OK, we're not doing this bull shit back and forth shit. Let me guess it was you that connected our worlds and made my mirror into a portal just so I'd come through and cause chaos because I'm actually a human." I said figuring he had something to do with all this.

His stony face stared at me in confusion for a few seconds before a look of recognition. "OOHH, you're THAT guy? Actually believe it or not I had nothing to do with the portals at all, I simply enjoy scaring the daylights out of nobles. I always start small to get their attention but you my smart little non-pony know me too well. Seeing as how you are the type to want to skip to the point I'll skip most of the normal drivel." He snapped his eagle talons and everything warped around us changing into a normal looking Earth college classroom. I was sitting at a desk and he at the podium in from of a chalk board wearing a professors suit jacket complete with elbow patches. "Now class today we willbetalkingabout-" Mid sentence it was like someone hit the fast forward button on a VHS tape, he started moving extremely fast and without any sound.

I swear this guy is never predictable, which is good in my opinion. Most characters get boring, like Rainbow Dash for instance, loyal, stubborn, and has an ego bigger than a dragons. She either complains, gloats, or talks about wonderbolts, Its always the same. Not saying I don't like her or anything but someone needs to knock her down a peg every once in a while, and that someone might be me one day If i figure out this magic shit.

I finally look up from my thoughts to see Discord standing completely still as if paused. Not wanting to waste any more time I acted out hitting the play button on a remote. What can I say the guy is one of my favorites in the show, I'll play along just this once. He started moving again now erasing what he had written on the board.

"Now, I hope you all took notes because this will be on your next test which isss-" He picked up a calendar off the top of a stack of them, that were not there a millisecond ago, flipping through and tossing it behind him before moving onto the next. This continued for two more before I hit the imaginary fast forward button again skipping to the end. "four hundred thirty six thousand two hundred and sixty nine weeks from tomorrow. However for those who couldn't keep up here's what you need to know. The portal that brought the fake ponies here was created through this worlds need for balance, no specific creature brought them here. They both serve different purposes but today we are focusing on the one that was turned into a unicorn because he is the more entertaining of the two. This non-pony unicorn has the mind of a human and therefore cannot under any circumstances use magic like other ponies can."

I raised my hoof about to freak the fuck out on how it was stupidly pointless to make me a unicorn if I couldn't use magic, but he ignored me. I tried to say it anyway only to realize I no longer had a mouth, so I sat and scowled at the 'professor'.

"This however does not mean that he can not use his new magical form, he just can't use magic in exactly the same way as other ponies. Regular ponies must remember spell forms, know exactly what the magic is doing when it takes effect, and a whole bunch of other complicated foowy. The human mind is much more powerful than that of a ponies, a human in the form of a pony uses magic much the way I do. I don't have to figure formulas or remember forms I simply just do it. I think about what I want to happen and it happens, Its quite simple really." He pauses for a moment to look pointedly at me. "So simple that even an empty headed moron of a human could cast powerful spells. The human mind on its own has enough imagination to automatically figure all that out without fail. Yet this specific non-pony unicorn is so stuck on the thought that magic is difficult that he is over complicating things and causing his magic to fail before if even begins."

The Magic Man Pt.2

Is it really that simple? I mean I've never known discord to be this serious about any explanation, he usually just jokes around. If what he says is true then I've spent allot of time learning useless crap over the past couple of months. "You're serious? I haven't been able to use magic because I've been trying too hard?" I ask.

"Yep. All this time could have been spent in much more productive and chaotic ways, magic theory is useless to you. Is your name Richard Rahl by chance?" Asked Discord while changing everything back into the courtyard we were in before.

"What? No, who the fuck is Richard Rahl?"

"Not important. Anyways I bet you're wondering how exactly I escaped from my imprisonment, but too bad I'm not telling you. However I will give you a heads up about that mirror. Celestia has it and she knows something, aka you, came through and has it on lockdown to force whoever was using it to come to her. Her reasoning behind this is in all honesty hilarious because of how misguided it is."

"Does she know who I am?"

"Not that I'm aware of, no. She has been waiting for 'the savior' to come find it."

"What the fuck is that supposed to mean?! This isn't some bullshit story where the human gets dragged into helping save Equestria is it? I do not want to be one of those stereotypical hero characters." This is starting to sound like some bad fanfic.

"Oh goodness no! You're better off staying out of all that stuff, she just thinks you are some hero because of a 'prophecy' some old crazy stallion gave her once. It went something like 'Blah blah from another planet, blah blah the moon princess will rise again.' Basically she took it the wrong way and combined two separate points into one convoluted idea that some otherworldly being would come and save not only her sister but Equestria itself. In reality however Swirlybeard was just saying stuff was going to start going crazy around the same time something from another world showed up. Its all a coincidence really."

-=-=-=-=-=-=-

After Discord and I finished our chat he turned back to stone resuming his normal position. I however am going to see what I can learn from Celestia herself. Finding the nearest guard I sent him off with my first request, tea with the princesses. What better way to get the chance to figure shit out AND talk to Luna who, if you haven't noticed, I have a thing for. She has always been one of my favorite characters even though she had very little screen time, maybe its because of her past or maybe its just because of all the fanfics I've read. I also kinda feel like I made a bad first impression which can be bad considering she is a princess.

The way I see it I've got a pretty good chance of getting my request fulfilled, I mean after all I would basically be giving them a break from dealing with their duties. They'd still be doing their jobs to which is the best part, as royals they have to at least listen to a nobles request and if deemed acceptable its their job to follow through with the request. They get a most likely needed break and I get to sit and talk to two beautiful mares. I find it strange that I accepted the idea of being with a pony so quickly. While I am currently also a pony I would have thought that my humanity would be screaming 'FUCK no' in my head, but nothing of that sort so far.

I have however still been hearing those faint voices in my head but I believe I know what it is: Magic. Spending the last couple of months hearing this shit and only catching bits and pieces makes me thing I'm accidentally picking up on someone else's conversation through magic. I'm not sure if that's a thing but in a world of magic I would not be surprised. When I started to try to figure it out I noticed the difference in clarity depending on where I was at the time of hearing the voices, but I could never figure out the source or even how to stop 'listening' to the conversation.

"Sir Quill, the princesses will see you now." It was the same guard I had sent with the request.

"Lead the way. I have no clue where we are to meet and I have not been in the castle enough to know the way." The guard nodded and we started off.

'.... we've a request .... Sir Quill .. .... for tea. Are ... available .. ......'

The voice are back maybe I should try what discord mentioned and just let it happen, concentrating on the voices never helped making it clearer so why not just let it happen. No later than I had the thought there was a small flash above my head but it didn't last long enough to see where it came from.

'Yes sister I am free of important duties for the moment. I am happy to get the chance to speak with Graphite Quill as I still feel embarrassed about leaving so suddenly. His words were unexpected but very welcome to hear and I hope I have not offended him with my actions.'

'Lulu I'm sure if you explain it to him he will understand and besides I believe he also feels he was in the wrong. If I remember correctly, after you left and I questioned him, he felt he had angered you. I regrettably only just remembered he asked me to give you his apology.'

HOLY FUCK! It worked, which is good, but I've now learned that I have been eavesdropping on THE princess's conversations! This could be very bad, I'm lucky they haven't caught on yet or i'd be in deep shit. Hold on.. Really Celestia? "You only just now remembered? It's been two months! Seriously bitch?"

'Um, Luna while I do understand that I made a mistake Isn't name calling a bit childish?'

Oh fuck. Did I say that out loud? Or rather in my/our heads?

'Sister that was not me!'

'Luna who else could it have been? Nopony else can use a spell such as this other than Princess Cadence and she is too far away.'

'I do not know but I assure you it was not me. I suggest we stay our conversation here until I arrive at your study.'

Silence. Pure terrifying silence. Awesome that I can do something that is apparently so rare but now I can only think about what would happen if they knew I was listening in. If they are as smart as I think they are their first thought should be about the dangers of what their conversations have or may still reveal to a possible enemy. I am definitely not an enemy, to them at least. I have enough respect for them that while I may flirt I will never try to, for lack of a better word, seduce them into my/their beds. Don't get me wrong though if either were to offer I'd accept in a heartbeat.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Mrs.Binding had just finished making her favorite soup, cream of broccoli, and sat down at the table to eat. She absolutely loves this soup, so much so that she spent most of the day looking for her late husbands special recipe. The search lasted hours but was well worth it to her because she would finally get to taste a small piece of heaven once again. Just as she was raising a spoon full to her lips there was a bright flash above her. Only a moment later a pony fell from the ceiling and hit the table with a loud crash upending her freshly made hot soup sending its contents splattering over his muzzle and back. He let out a pained yelp from both the fall and the scalding liquid covering his coat.

All this happened in a span of half a second, and how did the old mare react you ask? She was started and nearly fall backwards in fright until her mind recognized who had just fallen and how they had gotten there. "GRAPHITE! HOW- WHY-"
She was conflicted, several emotions were flooding through her over what had just happened. She was angry about her soup, confused that he had managed such a high level spell, and excited for what this could mean.

The bruised and burnt stallion slowly slid off the table with a groan before stating his thoughts aloud. "It worked but I wish it hadn't, what the fuck is all over me?"

"It WAS my dinner! How were you able to teleport here?! Did you use you own magic?" The mare's confusion and curiosity were clearly evident on her face.

"Yes I teleported with my own magic, I guess I wasn't specific enough on where exactly I ended up. Did you just cook this shit? It's burning fucking hot!" With another bright flash his coat was clean showing a few bruises from the rough landing. The mare's jaw dropped even more at the cleansing spell she had never taught him about. Before she could speak however there was another flash and a green aura slid past the bruised areas. She watched in mind numbing astonishment as the bruises healed instantly.

Graphite noticed his boss's astounded stare and though he knew why she was so confused he decided to ask anyway. "Whats wrong? Did I miss something?"

"HOW THE BUC-" The mare clamped a hoof over her muzzle to stop herself then brought it back down to her chest. She slowly took a deep breath to calm down and as she let it out she lowered her hoof back to the floor. "You realize I have ALLOT of question so we are going to sit here and you are going to answer every single one." Gaining an affirmative nod from the stallion she began her questioning.

Author's Note

Well I'm a bit late on this one from when I thought i'd get it done but hey three days is better than the usual month right? I know I could have made this chapter about 400 words longer easily but I wanted to get it up today before I had to sleep for work and I'm not really feeling the writing bug today. Anyways pones I hope you all enjoyed, peace! {T}

The Inconceivable Mage

-=-=-=-=--=-=- Canterlot -=-=-=-=-=-=-

"Sister this is serious! Never has there ever been another creature that could speak through magic like we can, only alicorns! You know as well as I that there can be no male alicorns and no normal pony could do such a thing. This voice has to be something new, something we have never seen before and I do not believe anything good can come of this!"

"Luna I understand your misgivings about this but we don't have enough information yet. There is no reason to draw the elements into this until we can figure out who or what could do something like this. For now we should only speak when we are in the same room and shield our minds from any more intrusions. We will figure this out Lulu."

Interrupting the royal sisters was a knock at the door and the voice of a guard. Celestia opened the door with her magic allowing the guard entrance. He stood tall with a salute waiting for acknowledgment before stating his business. "Sir Quill is here for tea per his request."

Neither was in the mood for tea anymore and had more important things in mind than fulfilling a simple request. "Tell him something urgent came up that we need to attend to immediately and that we will have to reschedule to a later date." Celestia watched the guard bow and leave, she could only wonder if it was the being from another world who spoke to them. She was still unsure of rather or not she should tell Luna of the prophecy given to her by Starswirl the Bearded on the day of her banishment.

On one hoof she knew Luna always had little faith in prophecy. Luna believed ponies decided their own future through their actions, and that prophecy was only a foretelling of the result of the decisions made. Celestia however believed prophecy made itself known for the purpose of guiding ponies to the correct path and that everypony should heed the prophesied words if possible.

Celestia having decided on the best approach turned back to face her sister. "Luna I have reason to believe that something more is going on here. I'm not saying the being we heard is innocent he may be something evil that was spying on our conversation, but we do not know for sure. I know how you feel about such things but on the day of your banishment after I used the elements I heard Starswirl the Bearded's voice thorough the magic. He spoke of a prophecy, one that involves your return." Celestia lets out a tired sigh before continuing. "I leave the decision to you on rather or not you would like to hear it but I believe it is of great importance to the future of Equestria."

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

"I honestly don't know what to tell you other than what I've already said."

"That's the problem! All you said is that you figured it out during your walk."

"Probably because that's how it happened. I was walking the garden, talked to some guards, saw some statues, then it all clicked into place and now I can use my magic." There was ALLOT more to that story but I don't think it would be wise to tell anyone that the 'sealed' god of chaos was actually free and only faking imprisonment. I'm still curious as to why but I know he won't tell me anything.

"There has to be more to this story than just 'I figured it out' what aren't you telling me?" My boss asked sounding just about fed up with my lack of explanation.

"Well near the end of my walk I decided to send a guard to the princesses with my first request as a noble."

"So you asked the princesses for help with your magic? Why didn't you say that soon-"

"Actually no I just asked to have tea with the both of them, which they accepted but they ended up cancelling on me."

My boss facehooved then spoke in an exasperated tone. "Why do I even try? Your impossible to talk to sometimes, you know that right?"

"Well I can lie and say somepony magically taught me how to use magic if that's what you want to hear, but that's not what happened. I simple realized I was trying too hard and my concentration was getting in the way of my casting. Once I figured that out it was easy, I simply think about what I want to happen and it happens." Might as well throw her a bone she's been complaining for over an hour about my crappy explanation.

"What do you mean you were trying too hard? Spells are complicated events caused by focusing your magic on a specific task and you have to know EXACTLY what it is supposed to do! You can't just make something happen by simply thinking 'I want to teleport home', you have to specifically know what is happening to your body and keep it at the forefront of your mind to direct the magic on how to cast the spell. You can't just cast a spell by will alone, It's not possible."

"It is for me, I mean how do you explain me casting spells nopony has taught me yet? The cleaning spell for instance."

"IT'S NOT POSSIBLE! Sompony has to have taught you that spell, magic does NOT work the way you say it does."

I fucked around with my magic quite a bit before coming back here to the library so i'm confident in my abilities. I just can't fucking believe how simple magic has been for me this entire time, the thought of all I could have done in the past two months pisses me off. "Try me. Any spell at all, hell even make something up if you want to. Better yet I'll even do something that you know for a fact is impossible. I guarantee you that I can do whatever you ask me to, I'll even bet my entire bank account on it."

She seems confident that I'll fail. If only she knew. "Alright you cocky little colt just don't come crying to me when you're dirt poor again. I'll take your bet, If you can do what I ask I'll sign the library over into your name and then you'll be my boss. How does that sound?"

"Sounds good to me. Now then, what is it you want me to do? What's the most impossible thing you can think of?"

"I want you to sprout wings and fly. Not those gossamer butterfly-looking wings I mean real feathered wings that allow you to fly!" She spoke in a triumphant voice fully expecting to have just made a fortune over something she knew was impossible.

"You know, I never even gave wings a thought. I wonder if I could hide them with a spell when I don't need them." I said almost to myself.

My thought process was interrupted by the impatient older mare. She looked annoyed that I was talking about it as if I knew it would work. "Stop stalling and lets see it mr. I can do anything, I've got some bills that need paying."

"Alright geez excuse me for thinking ahead about the repercussions of walking around looking like a male alicorn. Just give me a second." How should I do this? I could probably make some fake magical ones but real ones would be guaranteed to actually allow me to fly. I think. You know what fuck it, if I'm able to grow a pair of wings with magic then it should be easy enough to cover them with an illusion. Starting the spell my horn started to glow rather than the usual flash I was used to. "Alright lets do this! I wonder If I can get flying lessons from the Wonde- AGGHHFUCK!"

-=-=-=-=- 6 Hours Later -=-=-=-=-

Page Filler has always loved reading books and has always found inspiration in others writings. She spent her younger years writing short stories and entering competitions to help her family keep their home stocked with food. Things weren't always easy for the Filler family but they did what they could to get by. Page Filler the eldest daughter of the family met her husband Dusty Bindings at a book signing event that was happening at a smaller local library. Dusty was the owners son and the only one his father trusted to keep the library going, he and Page knew they were meant to be together the very moment they looked into each other's eyes. This was the most magical moment Page had ever been a part of, until today.

Page Binding could only stare in disbelief at what she had just witnessed. A young stallion who she barely knows anything about had just changed everything for her, he did something that should NOT be possible. Graphite Quill the stallion that had only just hours ago been a unicorn lay on the floor with a freshly grown pair of real wings. She knows they are real because just after he screamed and passed out she watched as two bumps formed on his back and slowly grew into full sized wings. She even heard and saw bones popping and snapping into place under his skin. Page even managed to scan his wings and back with a spell that allows her to 'feel' his bones. It was not an easy feat for the old mare but she found every bone and ligament, that all Pegasi have, to be in the correct places. He had done the impossible and she didn't know rather to cheer or feint along side him.

She knew from the scan that he was completely fine aside from the pain that knocked him out, though she knew when he woke up he'd need to eat allot to make up for the sudden growth of the new appendages. He would be in allot of pain for a while until he got used to the new muscles and added weight. She was unsure of what to do now, she knew that something profound had happened today but she didn't know if this was an amazing breakthrough for magic or a huge mistake. She knew Graphite well enough to know he hated hospitals and having attention drawn to him. He preferred to just blend in and avoid confrontation. If others were to find out about what he had become, blending in would be impossible and who knows what would happen to him after the princesses found out.

"Faust protect us.." Said Page as she sat staring at the inconceivably powerful pony lying on the floor before her.

Author's Note

Woot 'nother update! Now before I continue with my normal after chapter thoughts I have something I must say first. NO HE IS NOT AN ALICORN NOW!!! So don't get your britches in a bunch over it. Yes he is still a unicorn and yes he now has wings at the same time, however he did not ascend. Now back to my usual shit that I put in the author's box. It took me for-fucking-ever to get through this one, I couldn't figure out a good way to transition into different scenes without it being too forced for my liking. I feel allot better about how it came out now that I'm done but that might just be because I really wanna go and play Rust right now. Who knows maybe its total trash like the rest of my writing. As always feel free to let me know how you think it turned out; constructive criticism always welcome. Anyways pones PEACE! Ima go raid some people now. {T}

The False Alicorn

-=-=-=-=-Canterlot Castle-=-=-=-=-

Celestia had been busy in her study for days. She had agreed to allow Luna to find the source of the voice which meant she had to take care of all of her sisters paperwork as well. It was tiring work but she trusted in her sister's abilities more than her own. Luna had always been better at finding information when there were no leads to begin with. As she was reading a request from the Griffon Empire she felt a magical surge pass through her even though her study was resistant to magic. She knew immediately that whatever spell it was had to be powerful if it got through her dampening spell, and she only knew of three others that could cast something like that. Luna would have warned her first, Twilight is in Ponyville and too far away, the lastly was Discord who was trapped in stone. Discords chaos magic was different, it would have ignored her spell completely and it feels different than normal magic so it couldn't have been his.

She could only guess it was the same creature that spoke to them through telepathy magic days earlier. Celestia wanted to leave the room to investigate but she promised to leave it up to Luna to find the creature. Choosing to ignore the strange magic she returned to reading the letter in front of her which came with a second still sealed letter to Graphite Quill of all ponies. The letter she read was actually an invitation for her and Luna to attend a dinner along with Sir Quill, it goes on to say the purpose behind the dinner is to continue good relations between the two races. In other words its vacation offer disguised as a royal meeting. Its a scarcely known secret that the rulers of the different lands do this to give each other a much needed break from their responsibilities. It may be a bit selfish but every creature needs a day off from their jobs now and then.

With the stress of recent happenings Celestia needed this. Between the guilt caused by her sisters return and the telepathy incident she couldn't say no to a few days off. Now she only had to find her sister and then Graphite Quill.

-=-=-=-=-=-Graphite-=-=-=-=-=-

I felt like I went through the portal again after that damn spell. Everything hurt for hours until I remembered I could use magic to stop the pain. After waking up and convincing my boss I wasn't an alicorn I noticed yet again that my new body parts were strangely easy to figure out, I still can't fly but I can move them with ease. Since they were freshly grown the muscle hadn't been strong enough to lift my weight, not that it matters since I could probably just make myself near weightless through magic.

I think my boss is scared of me now which I guess I can understand considering I did something that shouldn't be possible even for the princesses. I think I'm going to bring it up and ask her directly some time soon as her near constant staring is starting to annoy me. I cast an illusion around myself to make the wings invisible to other ponies then a sort of shield that should hide the magic of the illusion while in itself not leaving a trace of magic. I don't want unicorns asking about the illusion magic that I now have to keep flowing. The good thing about illusion magic is it feeds mostly on the ambient magic in the air and only uses a tiny part of my own magic to keep itself linked to me, plus its drawing from my pool of magic directly so my horn isn't constantly glowing.

I'm at the castle now waiting for the guard I sent to the princesses, I wanted to try my luck at having tea with them. Last time I kinda fucked it by accidentally speaking through their telepathy link and scaring the hell out of them. Hopefully they've had enough time to calm down after that but I doubt it, I know I'd still be on high alert after that. They have been silent in my mind since then so I know they are only speaking face to face until they figure out who spoke to them. I would like to tell them I'm harmless but I still don't know if they can track me down through the magic and I really don't want them to find out it was me. I feel that it would be a bad idea to reveal myself to them considering where I'm from and what I used to be, I don't want to be the elements next target. However I doubt they would do anything to me, I'm not evil.

The guard I had been waiting for returned and started to speak. "Sir Quill, your request has been accepted and Princess Celestia requests your presence at her study as soon as possible. I will guide yo-"

I never let him finish as I teleported to just outside Celestia's study only an inch above the flood this time. I find teleportation to be extremely easy, its just like fast travel in a game. I think of where I want to go and poof I'm there, but only if I've been there before. My sudden appearance startled the guards enough that one of them reacted on instinct and swung their spear down at me like a six foot club. It disintegrated, metal and all, before it got within a foot of my head. Magic is fucking awesome.

Ignoring the flabbergasted look on their faces I spoke with a bored sounding voice. "The princess is expecting me. I'm Sir Graphite Quill." They then proceeded to run the fuck away screaming. One spear gets turned to ash and they freak the fuck out. How in the hell did these ponies ever win a war if their royal guards scare so easi-

My thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice. A voice that was hiding the owners true feelings. "H-hello Sir Quill, I assume you are here about the invitation?" Said Luna from behind me.

I turned to see her glancing between the floor and the hall the guards ran down. Those imbeciles didn't run from me they ran from their own princess, they probably thought she destroyed the spear. "Princess." I stated with a confident tone. "Don't let them bother you, they're just chickens that don't deserve to be in the guard. If it were up to me they'd be discharged immediately." I looked down the hallway after them thinking about giving them a reason to be scared.

She must have noticed my anger towards them because she walked into my line of sight and spoke quietly. "Their reaction is understandable and it is something I've grown used to over the past few months. They have no reason to be punished in such a way."

"Princess, that's not something you should have to get used to. You are Princess Luna and they are ROYAL GUARDS that are supposed to be guarding BOTH princesses. I personally dislike how some ponies are treating you. Actually dislike isn't a strong enough word, it infuriates me when I see somepony disrespecting you or Celestia. I have half a mind to find them and-"

"That's quite enough Sir Quill. They will be dealt with in time, for now however we have tea that's getting cold." I turned to see Celestia with a tried expression on her face. She looked exhausted.

-=-=-=-=-Luna-=-=-=-=-

As Graphite and Celestia walked into the room Luna stood still blushing. Twice now Graphite has spoken on her behalf, even going so far as to show anger towards ponies he thought were mistreating her. She didn't know how to react to this or what to say to him in turn. She both liked that he was willing to stand up for her and was confused as to why he would after everything she had done. She eventually started forward into the room lest she hold up the meeting any longer.

At first the usual pleasantries were exchanged, greetings, small talk, and the like. As everypony had settled down Celestia and Graphite were chatting with ease talking about what they have been doing in their free time. Since Luna had been working towards finding a possibly dangerous being she stayed out of the conversation occasionally sipping her tea. Then her ears perked as Graphite asked her a question. "How have you been doing lately Luna?" She found it odd that he didn't use her appellation even though with his own status he was not required to. Everypony always calls them princess even when they are told not to yet he drops the title without a care in the world.

"I have been doing well Sir Quill." It was a complete lie and she knew it but she has to be strong for her sister.

Graphite snorted a little laugh. "No offence Princess but you're a bad liar. Also if you don't mind please just call me Graphite, no titles between friends right?"

Luna and Celestia both stared wide eyed at the pony in front of them. Celestia was angered by his flippant remark and was about to scold him until she saw Luna's tearful face. "You are not wrong Graphite, things have been difficult since my return. Please continue to call me by my name as well. My f-friend."

Author's Note

Boop! Another update for yall, hope you enjoyed. Peace fellow pones! {T}

The Feathered Complication Pt.1

Author's Note

Fuck this chapter man, this took ages to write. I kept hating how it was playing out and kept restarting after I already had a shit ton typed. This chapters a mess but I'm putting it up anyway.. Tired now, peace pones. {T}

The Feathered Complication Pt.1

My. Friend. Holy hell I took a complete shot in the dark with the whole friend thing so I wasn't expecting her to actually accept my friendship. This is fucking awesome! Princess freaking Luna herself accepted my friendship! I'm not really sure who was more surprised me or Celestia, though she's probably more surprised by her sisters confession than the newly founded friendship. Now I know I'm not exactly the friendship type but being in good standing with THE princesses would likely be a great boon in case shit hits the fan. I mean after all this is Equestria there's always something big happening and I'd rather stay out of it all. If I somehow do get involved with something big I'll have the princesses to fall back on if I need help.

After Luna's little confession she and Celestia started talking about feelings and all that mushy stuff, I for the most part ignored the conversation. I'm almost sure they forgot I was even here and this was between them anyways, it was after Celestia who didn't see the obvious pain in her sisters eyes. However in all fairness I've noticed that nopony seems to be able to read body language or the obviously fake emotions. Of course this could be a normal thing here, their blissful ignorance could just be a common trait in Equestria. Celestia could also just be an oblivious airhead. Meh oh well, the cats out of the bag now, she can't ignore the problem anymore.

There's starting to be allot of crying and hugging, which is to be expected, but I don't really feel like hearing all the same 'i'm sorry' bull that happens in damn near every fanfic I have ever read. To postpone their heartfelt moment I cleared my throat to remind them of my presence before speaking. "Perhaps I should come back another time?"

They both froze mid hug for only a moment before they looked at me. Celestia spoke up first. "Sir Quill, I'm sorry for this rather unprofessional show of emotions, perhaps we should finish our business quickly, as my sister and I have much to discuss."

They released their embrace then Luna spoke. "I believe that would be the best course of action at this time. Now what is it you wished to talk to us about dear sister?"

As I looked towards Celestia I noticed something in the corner of the room mostly covered with a blanket. It was the fucking mirror. THE mirror. The very same one I need to be able to get back home. I focused on it and could feel layers upon layers of spells placed on and around it. How in the hell am I ever going to get through all that without her noticing? I can't, at least not yet anyways.

After clearing her throat and wiping the last remnants of tears from her eyes she levitated an envelope over to me. " The three of us have been invited to dinner by Sir Brennus of the Griffon Kingdom. He is the one who bought the first two shipments of your pens, Graphite. He has also extended his proposal to us as well Luna. I don't know his exact reasoning for the invitation but I'm sure he will explain in the letter. Now if you'll excuse us Sir Quill."

-=-=-=-=- Griffon Kingdom -=-=-=-=-

"Where is number two!? Number four stop standing around and do something productive! Good job number five now stop what you're doing and GO FIND number two! SEVEN!" The adult griffon was attempting to arrange the upcoming dinner with the princesses and the newest top noble of the pony city known as Canterlot. He would never admit it aloud but his main objective was to wiggle his way into gaining more power among the ponies and he believed the new naive noble would be his ticket in. "SEVEN WHERE ARE-"

"I'm h-here Master Brennus." Said the small young griffon that had been by his side the whole time.

"Where have you been!? AH never mind! You'll be serving us all at the dinner, so DON'T drop anything, and do as you are told! If my guests want you to dance? Dance. If they want you to pull out all your feathers? You had better be completely bare of feathers immediately. No doddling around, you do as you are told, got it!?"

"Y-yes Master Brennus."

"Now get going to the kitchen and help number five look for number two."

-=-=-=-=-=-

The Griffon Kingdom was once a place of danger and strife where several griffons fought among themselves and died on a daily basis. There was always a rivalry between different families over the most mundane of beliefs. It was a place where death and murder were the only solution, or so most of them believed. Until the ponies intervened the population was dying at a faster rate than ever before. The ponies used their intelligence to force the griffons into a neutral agreement that neither side was completely happy about. The ponies wanted any griffon who murdered another to be banished from both the kingdom and Equestria. The king after many days of argument offered a choice, war or an added clause to the ponies treaty. They added a way out of said banishment in the form of slavery. The murderer and their family accepted to become slaves to the family of the deceased griffon or face banishment.

The ponies did not like the option of slavery but had to accept the agreement in the end. The princesses thought slavery was better than the total decimation of the species rather it be through war, or by their own claws. A great many years have passed since that time and their treaty of peace had changed over time, but slavery was still abundant. Nowadays slavery was a business that made the griffons soft and less of a threat which was great as far as the pony princesses were concerned. As long as no pony was made a slave they would raise no issue with the griffons.

Number seven was sitting in the kitchen watching the other slaves run around frantically doing their master's bidding. The other eleven slaves had been owned and bred by Brennus's family and knew nothing other than this life. Number seven was different however, she had been born free but was 'taken in' by the heavily built griffon Brennus. She didn't remember how she came into living as a slave only that she was once free many years ago when she was a hatchling. She was so young that she couldn't remember her parents or if she even had a real name.

Over the years number seven had been maturing and was starting to realize she hated her life, and she hated her master. He always treated her more harshly than the rest because of her failure to complete tasks even though she was physically unable to accomplish the tasks he gave her. At the age of seven she was expected to lift and move things that weighed at least four times her own weight, that even the adults had a hard time moving. It was because of her failures that she was underfed as 'her punishment for being useless'. The other slaves helped when they could but their master always made sure that they to were punished if caught in the act.

Number seven, also know as Blu to some of the slaves, was fed up with her life. She knew she couldn't do anything change it and that running wasn't an option. Blu only knew one way out, but she couldn't do it herself. She felt the only way to truly escape was to die. She was going to endure this life for just a little longer until she could gain her minor revenge on her master's big day. She was going to do everything she could to ruin his dinner with the princesses. She knew she would not survive the beating that she would receive afterwards.

-=-=-=-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-=-=-=-

I find it odd that I haven't been actively looking for somepony to fuck. Its not that I don't find other ponies attractive, because I definitely do, maybe its this world or rather my pony body that's changed my sex drive. I mean its still there, but no where near the lever it was on earth. I mean hell I've even been fairly amiable with everyone lately, so much so that my boss even asked if I was feeling alright. I immediately called her a bitch, to which she returned her own profanities, so maybe I haven't changed all that much. Then again I did let her keep the library even though I won our little bet..

I'm actually looking forward to that dinner with the griffon who bought out my first couple of shipments of pens. Speaking of my pens, they are ALWAYS sold out before the next batch is made, so I am basically never going to run out of money. With how popular my pens are everyone will probably shit bricks when I start the production of colored pencils. I'd say my life here in Equestria is a done deal, I'll never have to work again at this rate. Part one of my not-so-grand plan, completed. Part two however may be impossible until I can get the mirror back from Celestia. I mean I probably could just straight up ask her about it but I doubt anything helpful will come of that.

On the off chance the princesses are able to track my magic when speaking telepathically I'm going to refrain from talking to them in that nondescript way until after we return from the trip to the Griffon Kingdom. I should be able to teleport all the way there even if I have to make smaller jumps and hopscotch my way across the map. We are traveling there by airship which is freaking awesome, so I should be able to make it there as long as I pay attention to the terrain and remember key spots. I'm pretty sure if I tried to teleport the whole distance in one go I'll either die or explode from overuse of magic I don't have. The easiest way to explain my magical talent is that I have a bit above average mana pool but a gargantuan mana regeneration rate. So as long as I don't overdo it I'll only need a couple of seconds to be fully charged again. So human brain for the win I guess.

Speaking of my brain, I have several spells placed around me at all times to both protect me and slowly grow my mana pool over time. Unless I'm completely overpowered by magic, which is highly unlikely, I can't be harmed even in my sleep. A startled guard tested the first layer of spells earlier and it worked flawlessly thus giving me enough confidence in my abilities that I'm not as worried about getting home anymore. I had hoped to be able to get the fuck out of dodge during the changeling invasion of Canterlot but I'm pretty sure I can keep myself and the library safe. I'm thinking a shield that allows anything but a changeling through unharmed. Though I'll need a test subject for a target specific shield but that shouldn't be difficult with the bug bitches minions running around in disguise on the day of the attack. I'll simply scan the area for any strange magical residue then capture the first one I find as a test subject. It should be easy enough with my abilities.

I just remembered that dumb ass thief is still running around out there somewhere, what was his name again? Eh fuck it who cares, I doubt he knows anything about the show so he can't really fuck up the story line. I hope. Damn it I'm going to beat my own ass if I just jinxed myself. I don't want to have to get involved but I will if things start to stray from how they are meant to happen, for now I just hope he doesn't change the story because I like knowing when shits about to happen.

The Feathered Complication Pt.2

Author's Note

I hope this one turned out a little better than the last even though it's shorter. I'm mainly trying to set up future events while also trying to figure out the best way to progress to said events. I changed things up this time and dusted off my laptop to write this with while sitting in my recliner. Why? Strangely enough most of my better(in my opinion) chapters were written on this laptop, in this chair. Hopefully It made a difference and this chapter is more put together than the last. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Please feel free to let me know how I'm doing in the comments or with a personal message, I'm always happy to hear input that might help me be a better writer. Thanks for reading pones! Peace! {T}

The Feathered Complication Pt.2

Overseeing the preparations taking place at the airship dock, Celestia stood at her balcony thinking about the unknown entity that invaded the telepathic conversation she had been having with her sister. Many days had passed since the incident took place but neither she nor her sister Luna had been able to figure out who or what had interrupted them. Telepathy was an exceedingly rare ability that only born alicorns seemed to posses, and this fact made it near impossible to track down info on the subject. All either of them knew is that they had always been able to talk to each other in this way and even Starswirl the Bearded himself was unable to figure it out, although he did still write a few pages worth of notes on what he was able figure out.

Scouring their limited information on telepathy only led to dead ends that discouraged them from continuing their search for the unknown being. The dangerous possibilities of something powerful enough to invade their collective thoughts were not lost on the sisters, however their citizens safety comes first. They had agreed to keep a watchful eye out for anything suspicious while continuing their usual duties. After their diplomatic trip to the Griffon Kingdom of course.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Luna hated airships. She could fly for hours so high up that she could barely breath without a care in the world, but airships made her nervous and very motion sick. Neither she nor her sister could figure out why flying at such a slow speed made her sick but it always did. Airships make Luna nervous because she didn't like the idea of being trapped inside of a flying wooden box on the off chance it was about to crash, and despite Celestia's assurance of its safety features Luna still hated traveling in this way. It had been far too long since she had last been to the kingdom so teleportation was impossible and there was no other way of getting there safely with all the dangerous creatures along the way.

With the looming thought of the coming days of motion sickness she had mostly forgotten about the unknown creature she had been trying to track down. She instead found herself thinking of the noble that would be going with them to the land of the griffons and how he would react to the meat the griffons would undoubtedly be serving. Most ponies balked at the sight of cooked meat and she wondered if Graphite would still want to be her friend after seeing her partake in the meat at the dinner. As alicorns Luna and Celestia were ultimately omnivorous and could eat meat but usually only ate plants and the like to keep from causing problems with the nobles of Canterlot. She knew she could have some sent to her room once there so she wouldn't have to take a chance at losing a friend in Graphite. It had been just over a thousand years since she had last had any kind of meat and she was really starting to crave it since she started thinking about the griffons dietary habits.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

"Wait woah hold on, seriously? How does that even make sense!?" Exclaimed Graphite Quill.

"That's just how it is, I don't know what to tell you. The cows in and around the Griffon Kingdom have never been sentient so the griffons use them for food. That's one of many reasons you don't see cows traveling anywhere where there is a griffon settlement even though Equestrian griffons know not to harm them." Page Binding was telling her only employee about the griffon culture and what to expect when he attends the dinner. She had mentioned that they would likely offer him meat even though he is a pony because some, mostly pegasi, enjoyed it from time to time. He had asked what kinds of meat they would offer him.

"I question this world at times. Can ponies even digest meat? I've never seen a pony eat meat at all."

"Yes we can digest it but only in small quantities, too much can make anypony very sick. As for why you've never seen a pony eat meat, it's very uncommon these days and it's very rarely ever done in public."

Graphite was excited to get the chance to eat meat again, he hadn't been craving it like a certain princess but he had missed the taste. He was also excited to get the chance to see another part of the world and to get the chance to talk to a griffon. He never saw the female griffon, that the worlds only other human befriended, after the two otherworldly visitors went their separate ways. Graphite felt that he would fit in better with the griffons than with the ponies, he thought it might be because of their similar predatory outlook and general temperament.

"What are their laws on prostitution?"

Page spewed the tea she had been drinking all over the table at the unexpected question. "WHAT!? Why would you want to know that!?"

"I thought my reasons would be obvious but if you really want to know, I want to feel how tight-"

"STOP! PLEASE SHUT UP! Please don't finish that sentence." The blushing older mare always wondered how he could say such intimate things out loud in front of others. Simply thinking of the things she and her husband used to do when others were around made her feel embarrassed. She decided it would be for the best to give him an answer in hopes that he would move on to a different subject. "I wouldn't know, I've never asked." She said returning to what was left of her tea.

"I feel like Celestia would know something about this. I should ask her." No sooner than the words left his mouth the last of Page Bindings tea was lost as she choked and coughed at the thought of Princess Celestia with a griffon prostitute.

-=-=-=-=-Number Seven=-=-=-=-

I pray to whoever or whatever is listening, please help me. I can't take it anymore. This life if you can even call it that, has been nothing but torture. I do everything I'm told and I do the best that I can but it's never enough for these monsters. They give me impossible tasks that even the older slaves can't handle alone and beat me when I mess up. I don't want to die. I really don't, but that seems to be the only way out. If I somehow managed to get away from them I'll either be captured and sold as a slave again or I'll be eaten by another type of monster out in the wilds.

Please, I'd do anything to be saved from this life. I know that no matter what I will be killed here even if I don't mess up at the dinner. One of these days my master is going to get a little too into beating me and end up killing me, it's happened to a few others.. I'm not like the others who have been here their whole lives, they're used to this and I'm not. I may not be able to remember them, but I remember the feeling of my parents love. I remember what it was like being free. I'm sorry for whatever I did to deserve this, I'll do anything to redeem myself! Unless maybe I don't deserve redemption. Maybe It would be best if I did die here.. Someone please help me...

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

"Hmm. Things are going too well for him anyways, this story needs some spice! I've heard you little one even though you can't hear me. I'm not your savior however so I leave this up to him to decide your fate. I will however give him a little poke in your direction, I think you'll help counter his ponification. Maybe being near another predator will remind him that he's a human and not one of these squishy ponies. Harmony be damned I will not allow my entertainment to go soft on me." He was starting to regret using the mirror to grab this human, he knew it would turn him into a pony and he enjoyed thinking about the chaos a human with magic could cause. 'If only the magic of harmony wasn't interfering, oh the things this human could do.' He thought before returning to his stone encased body.

The Feathered Complication Pt.3

-=-=-=-=-Canterlot Castle-=-=-=-=-

"Sister I believe it is time to reform my guard." The dark Alicorn stated.

"Luna it's been a thousand years, are you sure they are still loyal? For that matter are they even still alive? I've heard nothing from them since the Nightmare Moon incident."

"All is well with them sister, I can still sense their bond to me and it is still as strong as it was back in that time. They may be of a different generation than my previous guards but I know they will have continued to pass down their knowledge and training. If they are anything like their ancestors then they already know about my return and are awaiting my summons. I feel it would be smart to have an extra line of defense while we are away."

"If that is your wish sister then so be it, call your guard home once again." Celestia knew she could trust Luna with keeping her guard in order but she was still unsure about the thestrals.

-=-=-=-=-Graphite-=-=-=-=-

I'm so excited to finally get to see the Griffon Kingdom, it seems like it took forever for the day to finally arrive. However while I may be excited to ride the airship, Luna apparently feels otherwise. One of my many 'friends' on staff at the castle let me in on a little secret. Luna gets motion sick very easily and hates having to travel anywhere in an airship. I plan to rectify this with a little magic, something to settle the stomach and ease stress.

It was almost time to leave by the time Celestia and Luna showed up, and I had already found my cabin. Celestia was all smiles on her way up the ramp looking ready for anything, a look which I matched. Luna looked anything but happy and if an inanimate object could die the ship would have long since imploded with the death glare she was giving it. Actually since magic is a thing that might still happen.

"Good morning Celestia, how have you been this fine morning?" I said.

"Good morning to you Graphite, I've been well. I hope we haven't arrived late, we had some last minute changes to make for our time away." Celestia returned with a smile.

"You are perfectly on time, the captain is working on final preparations for takeoff right now I believe." Turning my attention to Luna I saw her already starting to show symptoms of motion sickness. "Good morning to you as well Luna." I said giving a small bow of my head.

"It was a good morning until I had to climb aboard this infernal contraption." She grumbled slowly making her way past us and into the inner part of the ship.

Celestia looked to me and stated, "I'm sorry for my sisters lack of joy for this trip. Had there have been any other method of travel she would be much more cheerful and excited to return to the griffon lands."

"Not to worry Princess I admit I'm a bit nervous as well so I can understand her current demeanor. I assume she used to enjoy visiting the Griffon Kingdom?"

Celestia rolled her eyes. "Yes, my sister for whatever reason enjoys their brutish nature and tends to get along well with their kind. She even used to attend many of their arena events which used to consist of fights to the death. Nowadays they tend to only make their slaves fight until one is unable to continue and the other is deemed victorious."

Wait woah what? Since when where slaves a thing in Equestria? For that matter why the fuck were the princesses allowing this shit? I can understand that they don't have a say considering its not their land but seriously what the fuck. "I had no idea the griffons kept slaves."

Celestia must have noticed the change in my voice because she looked a bit concerned as she spoke. "They tend to use the term indentured servant but there's not much of a difference in the way they are usually treated. I don't like it either but I cannot change their way of life without risking another war. Did you really not know about griffon slavery? I thought it common knowledge these days. If you are uncomfortable with this information you don't have to go with us, it's not too late to stay behind."

"Apparently it is not as common a fact as you thought. As for being uncomfortable, I'll be fine but I can't promise that I'll be able to hold my tongue." I can already feel a headache forming. I'm actually a little worried now because if I see someone, somegriff, somewhatever, getting beaten or whipped I'm the type to go and return the favor to the one doing the beating. I knocked a bitch out once for openly punching her kid in the face in public, everyone else ignored it but I couldn't. "I think I'll return to my room for now. Cya around Princess."

-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Luna had left the upper deck and into the lower portion of the ship to find somewhere she could sleep without being reminded of where she was. She had walked past the few crew members that were below deck looking for some place without other ponies beds or belongings. Eventually after opening nearly every door inside the ship she found one the was nearly completely barren except for a few crates and what appeared to be a net hanging from the rafters. Upon closer inspection she saw that it was actually a woven rope hammock. Secretly Luna had always wanted to try to sleep in a hammock but never wanted to try in fear of embarrassing herself while trying to get into one. She had seen ponies try and fail at getting into one in the past. 'Nopony is around so surely I can figure it out.' She thought.

Unbeknownst to her another pony slipped in behind her before she closed the door. Walking up the the hammock she used her magic to spread it apart before using her wings to boost her jump into the hammock. She landed on her hooves a little shakily at first but steadied herself before releasing her magic, which she immediately regretted. The rope enclosed around her legs and the now top heavy hammock flipped upside down leaving the startled princess hanging by her hooves from the now tangled hammock.

Just as the annoyed princess was about to start freeing herself she heard a snort of barely contained laughter. She froze expecting to see her sister standing near the door but instead saw Graphite Quill sitting beside one of the crates holding a hoof over his mouth and shaking with held in mirth. She immediately felt her face flare up in a deep blush as the stallion tried to speak.

"You o-okay? N-need any h-help Luna?" He was struggling to hold in his laughter and could barely form the question.

"I am quite fine I assure you and I can get myself out of this without your help." She said turning her head away stubbornly looking at nothing in particular.

Graphite couldn't handle the tsundere like attitude and lost all ability to hold back his raucous laughter.

"Shut up it is not funny!" Luna shouted blushing even harder from embarrassment and struggling to get free.

He continued to laugh and even had to wipe the tears from his eyes. Through his mirth he was able to focus enough to levitate Luna and the hammock back into a proper position.

Luna harrumphed and crossed her forelegs with a stubborn pout which only caused Graphite to laugh even harder.

-=-=-=-=-=-

After the hammock incident Graphite left Luna alone to enjoy his hammock in peace and returned to the upper deck. He still wasn't comfortable with the idea of 'indentured servants' but he was feeling more lighthearted after all that laughter and wanted to have a good view for when they finally left the ground.

After arriving at the main deck he found Celestia at the bow of the ship looking over Canterlot with a serene smile. Not wanting to disturb her he sat quietly beside her watching her mane flow in the nonexistent wind that always seemed to follow her.

"It's a spell," Celestia started without looking over. "it's a way for the excess magic my body produces to bleed out. I have noticed it draw your gaze in the past." She looked over giving him a mischievous smirk. "Unless I'm wrong in my assumption and you have instead been staring at my rear."

"A little of both if I'm to be honest. Though more often than not the second of the two is more common." Graphite said with a chuckle.

Having grown use to his comments Celestia simply giggled at his response. She enjoyed his lack of tact in the presence of royalty, he was a breath of fresh air in the staleness that is the nobles of Canterlot. She dislikes how everypony, friends included, agrees with everything she says. She could say the sky was purple and the clouds green and nopony would disagree, some might even try to make her statement true through magical means. It wouldn't weigh so heavily on her mind if it were true loyalty that caused them to act in this way.

"You seem in a much better mood than had been when you left. What happened in the short time you were gone?" She asked.

Graphite snorted and laughed remembering Luna's stubborn pout. "Oh you know just watching your sister fall into a trap I unknowingly set." He said waving as if shooing away a fly, indicating it wasn't a big deal.

Celestia was about to question him further when the captain of the ship announced that they were ready to take off. She was turning back to continue her conversation with Graphite when she saw a flash and felt a small surge a magic beside her. She looked to see Graphite holding a bundle of parchment, pure white with blue lines, and a pen in his magic. Briefly surprised by his apparent skill with magic she wondered what else he could do. Teleporting an item not within the casters sight tends to be much more difficult than teleporting ones self due to the extra calculations needed to find the sought item.

"Is there a map I could barrow around here?" Graphite asked to no one in particular.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Graphite had spent the better part of the first day making notes and sketching out specific locations every few miles. Only he knew the reason behind his actions, he was charting out the path he planned to take when he returned to the griffon lands by teleportation. When he grew weary of the task he paid one of the crew ponies to keep up the notes throughout the night. He made sure to remember to see the terrain for himself on the way back even though he had confidence in his abilities to find his way.

He left the top deck of the ship and returned to his procured room only to find the princess of the night still asleep in his hammock. Rather than bother her, Graphite flashed another hammock into existence and hung it up in the opposite corner of the original one that he set up. His silence was for not though as Luna shifted and spoke in a groggy voice.

"It seems I have not only stolen your room but also your bed for the night. I am willing to find other accommodations if you would prefer to be alone."

Graphite smiled at her then spoke "isn't that what I should be saying? You are the princess after all."

"You laid claim to this room before I was even aboard, so it is your room as far as I'm concerned."

She started to shift to get up but Graphite held a hoof up to stop her. "Woah Luna, careful now. You don't want to repeat what happened earlier do you?" He said smirking at her. Upon seeing her blush he interrupted her retort. "I'm just messing with you, please feel free to stay I'd prefer your company over none at all. Besides from what I've heard you rarely get to sleep when aboard one of these ships and I'd hate to have you lose any sleep because of me."

Minutes passed with the two conversing about nothing in particular until eventually they both fell into sleep.

-=-=-=-=-Two Days Later-=-=-=-=-

The days had passed in much the same way as the first, Luna below deck in her shared room and Graphite speaking to Celestia at the front of the ship. They had finally made it to the griffon lands early in the morning and were passing the smaller outlying towns around the Griffon Kingdoms Capitol city. The three were awaiting their arrival to the noble's land in silence as the ship started to descend at a measured pace.

The land of Brennus Blackwing sprawled out in front of them as they landed. Just before they touched the ground the large double doors at the front of the castle sized home opened allowing a group of griffons to exit. Two of the griffons stayed standing at the doorway while the rest lined up on either side of the door with their heads bowed.

"Welcome to my home your highness, please make yourself at home. Your wish is my command, you have but to ask and I shall make it so. My servants will take care of your belongings and bring them along when they escort you to your rooms, and after you have settled in join us for lunch." With that the noble snapped his talons, pointed at 3 griffons, then turned and walked back inside with the rest his servants trailing behind. The three chosen griffons lined up in front of the three ponies and bowed waiting for their orders.

"My luggage is in the royal suite, a crew member will show you the way." Celestia said to the first griffon who then walked off towards the ship.

"My personal effects are in a storage room below deck, ask for the captain and he'll tell you where to go." Luna said to the second griffon who then followed after the first.

Then there was a few moments of silence as the two sisters waited looking at Graphite, who only just noticed their gaze. "Oh I didn't bring anything on the ship, so I guess just go see if the other two need any help." He said with a shrug. The griffon left after a quick bow to help the other two.

"What of your notebooks and coin? We will be here for a few days and will likely visit the market before we leave. Didn't you bring some stuff with you?" Luna asked confused.

With a flash, a pile of notebooks, pens, pencils, and coins appeared on the ground between them. "I've got everything I need on me already." Another flash and it was all gone.

Celestia had a look of amazement on her face as she realized that he was using a summoning spell. The spell allowed the user to teleport nearby items to a new location and back, though it's only useful at a short distance before it requires too much magic. "I'm surprised you know such a spell, but wouldn't you feel more comfortable keeping your stuff in your room with you? Leaving it on the ship might not be the best idea, there are many thieves in these lands."

"You're assuming my stuff is here, but as I said before I took nothing with me on the ship. My coin is safe at home in Canterlot with the rest of my stuff." His anxious tone and shift in mood did not go unnoticed by the two alicorns. However before they were able to inquire about the change the servants returned to show them to their rooms.

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

I might kill someone. I'm here for all of a minute and I already want to start knocking heads together, consequences be damned. Shit like this has always pissed me off, seeing people wrongly mistreated, abused, and especially slavery has always made my anger skyrocket. It makes me furious to see someone who did their best talked down to or blamed for something out of their control. Thankfully things have rather tame so far and that's a large part of why I haven't blown up yet. I hope the time spent here passes quickly because I'm actually starting to miss the nobles of Canterlot. At least they're harmless.

I have yet to see any abuse or yelling and most of the "servants" seem healthy if not happy doing what they're told. Even my magical scans have proven that they've been taken care of well enough. So why am I so infuriated right now? My mind seems set on what slavery meant back home, but this is Equestria not earth so maybe things aren't as bad as I'm imagining. I guess I'll find out as soon as I work up the nerve to join everyone else for lunch. I'm sure Celestia and Luna are already there waiting for me and talking about the trip here or something to that effect. On that note I'm glad I was able to help Luna with her airship problem. Turns out my trick for dealing with motion sickness on regular boats works with airships as well. Hammock for sleeping and distraction from the movement using conversation. I didn't give a chance to even think about where we were, I just kept asking questions and telling her about my life. Most of what I said was fact but with minor details left out or changed to fit in with pony customs.

I learned allot about her as well, more than the show ever mentioned. For better or worse my feelings her have changed, and I fear I might fall for her completely at this rate. However while I have always had a bit of a thing for her character, and while I would absolutely love to pursue a future with her, it can't happen. I already know I've involved myself far too much and I'm risking changing the future of this world, so I really need to distance myself after we return to Canterlot. Maybe after the changeling attack I can go explore for a while, see the world for what it is rather than the spotty info I have from the show.

With my mind calmed and thoughts on the future I feel my appetite returning and leave the room. Just outside was the servant I had asked to help the others waiting to bring me to the others. "Ready Sir Quill?" He asked.

"As I'll ever be." Was my reply. As he started to lead me down the hall I thought to ask about some things. "Does this Brennus guy treat you all well?"

"Of course Sir Quill." He replied without pause.

"Ok I'll have none of that shit. Don't tell me what you tell everyone else, answer honestly and don't just say what you think I want to hear. I don't care what you do or say, I have no reason to repeat it to anyone so speak freely. I'm not in the mood for word games either so be blunt."

He seemed flustered at first but then let out a hearty laugh. "I like your spirit, thats rare for a pony. I'm not one of the normal 'servants' I'm here at my own free will as a job, so I'm treated well. I even have some sway in what the other servant do, I'm their leader of sorts." He slowed his pace to match my own and started to walk next to me losing all pretenses of professionalism. "Honestly though it's not that bad here, be feeds us plenty and has rooms for those who have nowhere else to go. He can be a bit of an arse at times but its usually well deserved. I've worked for a few other families in my time and trust me, the griffs here are lucky in comparison."

"So everyone's treated fairly, that's a relief." Hearing this helped lift my mood allot.

Only for it to drop at hearing this. "Well now I didn't say that." He then paused for a moment to look for anyone who might overhear. "He has his 'favorites' that tend to his more personal needs when his wife is away, and to say he likes it rough is an understatement. Most of them are willing because of the extra benefits like food and more free time." A look of sadness flashed on his face for only a moment before he spoke again. "Then there's Blu."

He trailed off and didn't seem want to continue so I prodded for an answer. "Who is Blu, and why the hesitation when you mentioned the name?" I said glaring at him.

With a sigh he scratched his head with a claw and spoke in a low voice. "Blu is a young griff who wasn't born here, and because of that he doesn't trust her as much as the rest of them. If he hears us talking to or about her he gets angry and bad things happen. He blames nearly everything on her and on good days as punishment for her 'wrongdoings' he limits her food."

"And on the bad days?"

He started to answer when another servant came around the corner, he immediately stood straight and spoke. "If you'll follow me Sir Quill, my lord is awaiting your presence."

-=-=-=-=-=-

Lunch had been a big boring political shit show where I mostly sat and listened to an overgrown parrot repeating everything the princesses said and mentioning how smart or astute they are. I'm surprised his beak isn't covered in shit. Luna qnd I left as soon as decorum allowed while Celestia stayed to talk with the noble. She seems to enjoy talking to everyone regardless of who they are, so in other words the exact opposite of both me and Luna.

We both returned to our own rooms for the same reason, a nap. That was extremely tiring and I'd rather not have a headache later at dinner when I finally get to eat some meat for the first time in what feels like forever.

-=-=- Later in Brennus' Chambers -=-=-

"Cordelia my wife, what troubles you?"

"Oh my husband, it's that troublesome young wrech of a servant. I saw it staring outside again as if it were thinking of running. I fear with all that is happening it will try to escape while we are distracted with the princesses."

"Worry no more dear wife, I shall put a stop to any thoughts of escape at once." The griffon noble spoke as he stood, starting for the door. 'I'll make sure that worthless bitch never again thinks of escaping my hospitality.' Brennus thought.

The Feathered Complication Pt.4

Author's Note

Here's a small-ish one for you since I've been lacking again lately, mostly written a piece at a time while at work. Peace fellow pones! {T}

The Feathered Complication Pt.4

Graphite was awoken from his nap by a knocking sound at his rooms door. Sluggishly he slid off the bed and cast a few spells to make himself presentable before opening the door with his magic. There stood the same griffon that showed him to his room earlier that day, with a tired looking Princess behind him. "Sir Quill dinner will be served soon. I was asked to show you to the dining room."

Graphite walked out into the hall with a grunt of acknowledgement following behind walking beside Luna. When he took another look at her he noticed her mane was stuck out in every direction and her coat was uneven. "You look like hell. Forget your brush back in Canterlot?" He joked.

Luna looked at herself, shrugged then started talking. "You look," Finally looking at Graphite she was surprised to see his coat and mane in perfect order. "strangely well put together for one who was just awakened. How did you put yourself together so quickly? We had only knocked the one time before you opened the door."

"I used magic. Do you mean to tell me that you actually use a brush when you have all that magical talent?"

She shrugged again. "I focused more on battle magic rather than cosmetic magic like my sister. I will have to ask her about it at some point."

"In the meantime I could do the same for you if you're willing. I rather like the bedraggled look but I doubt Celestia would be happy." He said with a smirk.

A third shrug. "By all means feel free, I trust that you can handle casting the spell on me. This way at least I will not have to listen to my sister complain about my appearance."

-=-=-=-

They arrived at the dining room slightly more alert after their conversation and Graphite's grooming spell. Luna had shivered at the touch of another's magic enjoying the feeling of every hair being cleansed and straightened. She was starting to regret not broadening her knowledge of passive magic. Graphite had forgotten about the side effects of his spell and nearly gasped when he felt every inch of Luna's body from horn to hoof. He decided to distract himself with thoughts of the meal he was about to have which included a few different kinds of meat.

Upon entering the dining room Graphite smiled, smelling the cooking meat wafting into the room from somewhere nearby. Princess Celestia sat at the table pausing in her conversation with Brennus to greet the two with a smile of her own.

"Good evening Luna. Good evening Graphite. Glad you could join us."

Luna was the first to return the greeting. "Of course dear sister, I would never miss a chance of dining on griffon cuisine."

Graphite simply nodded in reply to Celestia's greeting, his mind on other things as they sat. Brennus was at the head of the table, wife to his left and Celestia in the first seat to his right on the side of the long rectangular table. Luna sat to the opposite side of her sister with Graphite taking the seat next to her. As the time passed the servants passed back and forth bringing more and more food to the table with everyone in attendance filling their plates as the food arrived. As the last of the food arrived a smaller young griffoness arrived unsteadily carrying a pitcher of wine on a platter on her back.

Graphite noticed the trouble the young griffoness was having and took the pitcher from the platter filling his own cup before setting it on the table. The young griffoness seemed confused at first before turning back to the kitchen with the platter. Luna was the next to fill her cup which caused Graphite to notice her plate consisted mostly of meat and very little of anything else. Since Celestia was talking to Brennus he turned his complete attention towards Luna. "Luna can you even eat all that without getting sick?"

Luna having been focused on her own meal barely heard his question but still managed an answer. "This is only the first plate, of course I can." Tearing her gaze from her plate she saw that he had a few steaks as well. "Are you sure that you can eat all that? I have only seen one pony that could eat that much meat in one sitting and he was," she paused scrunching up her face. "different."

"This is only my first plate, of course I can." He replied with a smug grin.

Luna laughed giving him a playful shove. "Fair enough."

Unbeknownst to the pair Celestia's conversation ended just in time to hear their banter. Their playful nature brought a smile to her face, it had been some time since she had last seen Luna so happy. When Luna returned she had been withdrawn, shy, and ignorant of the ways of modern ponies. She had picked up the newer style of speech rather quickly but was unable to come out her shell of guilt and shame, even with Celestia's help. Recently however that had all changed, and Celestia knew the timing was no coincidence. Luna started showing signs of her old self from before the nightmare, right around the time that Graphite became a noble and started to frequent the castle. Although she would consider Graphite a friend, she would not deny her doubts about his true nature. Something seemed off about his character and she wasn't sure of his purpose, but she also couldn't deny how much he has helped Luna.

All ate in silence each enjoying their own different meals. Celestia was the only one at the table not eating any meat, however most of the served dishes included meat which left her little to choose from. Brennus seemed to notice her plight. "Princess Celestia, if nothing on the table suits your tastes I can send for some more vegetarian dishes to be brought out. My apologies for the servants lack of tact, it seems they have grown used to serving only meat. Seven!" At his call the same small white and blue griffoness that served the wine rushed out of the kitchen to stand at his side. "Ah there you are. Go and get more food from the kitchen, the stuff without meat in it. Now be gone and be quick!"

Celestia seemed unperturbed and thanked him. Meanwhile Graphite slowed his eating, losing interest in favor of watching the interaction between slave and owner. Seven returned with a platter of vegetables and fruits that was far too large for her to carry. She slowly made her way to the table barely able to take each step under the weight. Just as she neared the table in between Celestia and Brennus the platter started to tip over in the direction of her master. Quickly, Graphite took the platter and everything on it into his magic levitating it over to himself and adding some grapes to his plate of meat before setting it down on the table near Celestia. As he released his magic he noticed Celestia's smirk, thinking nothing of it he returned to his food and dinner progressed as normal.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

"May I barrow Sir Quill for a moment Luna?" Celestia asked after they all left the dining room. "I wish to speak with him in private."

Oh shit. What'd I do now?

"That is not up to me sister, but I was planning on going back to my room to sleep some more anyway. You know how it is for me after riding in that deathtrap." Luna said with a yawn before continuing down the hall.

"Whats going on? Did I do something wrong?" I asked confused.

"Follow me." She said.

Could this be about the meat? I mean I know it's not exactly common for unicorns to eat meat but I was sure she'd have seen it before. I probably shouldn't have ate as much as I did now that I think about it, I might be in for a hard night if my pony body can't handle it. I probably should have thought that through more but damn that was some good steak!

We headed down a hallway I had yet to explore and made it to large glass double doors that led outside to a type of patio area. Out in the yard was a garden being tended to by a few griffon servants including the very same young white griffoness that served our last few dishes. She looked terrified to be outside, constantly glancing around at every voice. I looked away from her to see Celestia staring at me smiling. I felt my eyebrow raise as I asked. "What?"

"I just wanted to talk about a few things that happened at dinner. Nothing to worry about."

Then why does it feel like I'm about to be interrogated? "OK, like what? Nothing really happened as far as I recall."

"Well for starters, the young griffoness who 'served' us wine. At first I thought you were just thirsty and in a hurry for a drink when you took it from her, but you never touched your wine after that. I found it odd but I didn't think very much of it until our host asked for more food that I would eat." She looked over to the young griffon in the garden with a frown on her face. "The poor young griffoness carrying all that at once? A disaster waiting to happen." She then looked back at me smiling again. "To get to the point, I saw her trip and I saw you catch both her and the food. What you did next made me realize that you were trying to hide her accidents."

Perceptive as ever Celly. "You're wondering why I would help." It came out more as a statement than a question.

"Exactly." She said nodding.

"I did it because if I didn't, and I let her get in trouble she'd likely be beaten."

"How did you come to that conclusion? I've seen no signs of abuse on any of the servants so far, and besides it isn't an uncommon occurrence around here. As much as I hate to admit it, it does happen but there's no law against it here."

"Look under her wings the next chance you get. Actually just scan her, she has several poorly mended breaks in her wings that were likely never treated." I noticed earlier at dinner that she had to strain to use her wings for anything.

A few moments later, looking completely confused and awed she spoke. "You are not wrong about her wings, I am surprised you were able to use such a spell." Shaking her head she returned to the topic. "What am I supposed to see under her wings?"

The griffoness had yet to raise her wings so I decided to take a more direct approach. "Seven!"

The young griffon nearly jumped out of her own skin at hearing the name but still ran up to me without delay. Cowering she spoke in a small voice. "Yes, Sir Quill?"

"Raise your wings and stand still." With a small 'Eep' she did as requested, straining to keep them up. "There." I said trying to keep a neutral face, when internally I was pissed. Under her wings were fresh untreated shallow claw marks on her body and more on her wing where feathers should have been. "Lower them." I said trying and failing to keep the anger from my voice. I find that it's rather difficult for me to not go looking for that fat-ass griffon to return the favor.

The Feathered Complication Pt.5

Author's Note

Lotsa perspective shifts in this one so I figure I should explain a bit. -=-=- <-- this is a time shift. If there's a name in between like -=- Luna -=- then that's who's perspective it is. If there's no name in between -=- -=- its a switch to 3rd person. Anyways pones, hope you enjoy the longer chapter. Peace! {T}

The Feathered Complication Pt.5

"This is certainly troubling to see, but my hooves are tied on matters such as this. It pains me to say this but I can't do anything to stop this, and I believe it would be in your best interest to forget about this. Griffons such as Brennus are not afraid of ponies, and especially me. He knows I legally can not act upon anything I see concerning his servants." Celestia said in a serious tone of voice.

"Even so I'm having a hard time keeping my calm, I was barely able to keep quiet during dinner." I said with a sigh.

"In that case let us drop this discussion for now, I do after all wish to speak of other things. I find that the more I speak to you, the more complex your personality seems to get. I'm not saying that is a bad thing however, I mean no offense by it." Looking over to me she noticed the young griffoness was still where she had been before awaiting orders. "Please return to whatever you were doing before and if anyone complains about your absence send them to me."

I watched as the griffoness bowed then ran back to the others in the garden. "I have been called many things and complex is one of the nicer ones, it takes allot more than words to offend me. By all means speak your mind Celestia, I'll tell you anything you want to know about me." Well, almost anything.

Celestia then looked directly into my eyes with a mischievous grin. "In that case, tell me of your feelings for my sister."

Well shit. This mare never ceases to amaze or surprise me. Might as well return the favor and mess with her a little bit. So with the most serious face I could manage I said, "I'm hopelessly in love with Luna and I would like your permission to ask for her hoof in marriage."

Several long seconds later we both burst into laughter unable to stare into each others eyes any longer. After a minute or two we calmed down enough to continue the conversation with the previous tension somewhat relieved. "In all honesty though I do care for Luna a great deal and I enjoy spending time with her. I'd be lying if I said I haven't dreamt of her as more than a friend but that's all we will ever be. I've always respected Luna even before her return and I hated how she was being treated by her own subjects. So I decided to step up and do what I could to help."

Celestia's expression changed to one of suspicion. "How did you know of her 'before her return'? It wasn't exactly a secret, but from what I understand most knowledge of Luna was lost over the years."

"Same way as Twilight, books, lore, word of mouth, stuff like that." She does not look fully convinced, I believe it's time for a subject change. "Speaking of Twilight, how has she been? Any more catastrophes in Ponyville since the parasite incident?" I said trying to look innocent.

-=-=-=-=-

Well that was a shitshow. I really need to watch what I say around Celestia and to a lesser extent Luna. Luna takes things at face value without question, but Celestia thinks about every response. I'm just glad she allowed me to change the subject to what's going on with the mane six. There's another good while before winter hits so the next 'episode' won't happen for some time. Winter wrap up is episode eleven in season one which means the next episode that's going to directly affect me is 'The Best Night Ever'. The Grand Galloping Gala, I can't wait to watch that unfold in person.

I have one last thing I want to try to do before I settle down for the night, but I'm not looking forward to it. I need to speak with the young griffoness alone, I feel the need to know her story. It's like an itching feeling that won't go away until I know more, for some reason it feels almost synthetic. Yes the whole slave thing annoys the hell out of me, and yes I do feel bad for them, but i know I shouldn't care as much as I do. I'm not one to try to help others unless there's something to gain from it like for instance, friendship with royalty.

OK, maybe that's not completely true. I help Luna because I care for her and because she doesn't deserve to be treated like she is by her own people, or rather ponies. She deserves respect not fear, everyone makes mistakes and she has already suffered enough for hers.

Entering my room I cast some spells of protection, healing, and a calming aura over the room. This has become a habit of mine that prevents anything harmful from happening inside the room while healing and calming all its occupants. Now I just have to wait for 'Blu' to arrive. Blu is the cute name that was given by the other servants to the young griffoness, it's a much better name than the one given by their master in my opinion.

-=-=- Blu -=-=-

"Heya Blu, how are your sides? Still in pain?" Asked Andraste.

I like Andraste, he's always been nice to me. He's the only servant here that's free, and he can leave whenever he wants. I think he has a hatchling at home which is why he's nice to me. I owe him my life several times over, if he hadn't stepped in the times he did then I'd probably be dead by now. At this point I don't know if I should thank him or blame him for my life.

"Still hurts allot." I said.

"And your wings?"

"I lost feeling in my wings a long time ago." I replied.

"I'm sorry Blu. One so young shouldn't have to go through this, I wish I could get you out of here." Looking dejected he spoke again. "If it wouldn't put my family at risk I'd take you away from here, but God's forgive me I can't take that chance. I hope you can forgive me my cowardice." He said refusing to meet my eyes.

Before I could speak he shook his head and grimaced. "There I go rambling again, uh I came because you're needed. I've already held you up long enough, I'll bring you to Sir Quill's room."

My eyes snapped open in alarm. "What? What does master Quill want with me?" I couldn't stop myself from trembling in fear.

"I don't really know, he asked for me specifically to bring you to him. He seems very interested in you, he asked about how you were treated. He seemed nice enough, when I talked to him. He's different from other ponies I've met."

That's what scares me. Ponies have been here before and they are always timid or scared, or just snooty. That pony's eyes terrify me, I could actually see the anger in them when he looked at my sides earlier. 'Please don't take me to him!' I could only nod in silence.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

They arrived outside the room of Sir Graphite Quill hesitating for a moment when they approached the door. As soon as they had walked within a few feet of the door they both felt an odd sensation, almost like static, before a feeling of safety enveloped them. A questioning look passed between them before Andraste shrugged and knocked on the door.

The door opened allowing a voice to escape. "Come on in both of you." Said Graphite Quill without turning around to look at them. Sir Quill was given one of the nicer guest rooms with a balcony, and seemed to be taking full advantage of the view.

Blu almost felt comfortable in the room when the doors closed behind her, however fear was still present in the back of her mind. She wasn't sure why the unicorn wanted to see her but she was glad Andraste was still there with her. She jumped at the sound of a voice after a few moments of silence. "Seven is here as requested Sir Quill." Andraste said in his formal voice.

"Please sit, relax for a bit. This is simply a social call Andraste, and you know how I feel about all that formal speech shit." Graphite said with a small chuckle and a smirk.

"Yeah yeah, just keepin up appearances. Go on and settle in kid, I get the feeling we might be in here a while."

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

You may be right. My magic has so far done everything I wanted it to without fail but I've never directly healed another in this way. I can easily create an aura that does its job by itself but it would take far too long for it to do any good for Blu. Most of the magic I use is passive stuff that's low cost and low power, I don't even know if the aura could set or heal bone. I've only ever tested my spells on myself and I've had nothing worse than a paper cut or a mild sprain to heal. If there was ever a time I should be confident in my abilities it would be now. I can NOT fuck this up. I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if I screwed up.

"You might be right." I said directing my attention to Andraste. "How often does Brennus punish her like this?"

"By himself never, but if his wife is around its basically every week or two." He scrunched his face up in confusion. "I'm not sure why I told you that."

I was about to explain the magic in the room when we all heard a few wing flaps and the sound of hooves out on the balcony. It was Luna looking beautiful as ever under the light of her moon, making it near impossible to look away. She slowly strode into the room with a serene smile on her face, wings folding closed at her sides.

"Gods above Luna, are you trying to cause an aneurism?" I said under my breath.

"No, but I appreciate the thought that my appearance can still cause such reactions." She said with a demure smile.

Both of the griffons stood at attention and bowed at her approach. "Princess Lun-" Andraste started to say before he was interrupted.

"Please none of that now, I believe Graphite here already asked you to relax. I am not here for any specific reason, mainly just curiosity." She turned back to me. "What is this spell you have cast my friend? I feel the magic easing my fatigue and urging a feeling of safety into my mind. It makes me feel," she paused glancing around before walking past me to the bed, "free and without inhibition."

As she jumped up onto my bed and lay down I noticed the looks on the griffons faces and decided to allay their fears. "It's completely safe, the aura just allows your mind to focus on what's happening now rather than the past and conveying a calm feeling. As soon as you leave the area you'll feel the same as before you entered with no lingering effects. It's going to help with what I hope to accomplish tonight."

"What exactly are you hoping to do? I can't say I'm a fan of magic being used on us." Said Andraste.

With a flash I created a magic nullification field around him but not Blu. "I will happily keep my magic from you if that's what you wish but the kid's got a decision to make, and she needs to be able to think without fear constantly gripping her mind." I turned to look at Blu, noticing she has yet to look away from me since she came in. "Don't worry kid you're safe in here, I just wanted to see if you'd allow me to help you out with those cuts under your wings. I can heal those easily enough if you'll allow me, and if not?" I gestured towards the door. "You're free to leave at any time."

She finally averted her gaze to glance at the door then to Andraste. "Don't ask me kid, I don't like magic but I've seen it do some amazing stuff."

We all calmly waited for her answer while she sat staring at the floor. Luna was damn near asleep on my bed, a sight I could get used to, and Andraste sat looking deep in thought. After a full minute of silent Blu lifted her head.

-=-=- -=-=-

Blu had never had any trust issues because she had never known anything other than doing what she's told. She'd never been allowed to make her own decisions and was unsure about what she should do. She was still unsure about the unicorns true motives but she was starting to think that he actually cared.

"O-okay, do it." She said.

Graphite smiled, walked up to her and sat down holding out a hoof. "Hold onto my hoof and we'll start." Blu slowly reached out to grip his hoof in her talons, and as soon as she made contact she felt a tingling sensation run throughout her body. They watched as a glowing flow of magic passed between their connected arms flowing from Graphite to Blu and back. Everyone watched as the cuts under Blu's now raised wings mended only to then appear on Graphite. When all the cuts were gone the glow vanished and she released his hoof to feel around the once damaged area.

"There gone." She said in mild suprise which turned to concern when she noticed the fresh cuts going down Graphite's sides. "How did-" Stopping mid question she watched in awe at the sight of the cuts closing up and fur growing over the newly healed flesh.

"I transferred your injuries to myself because the healing process tends to be more painful than getting hurt in the first place. You've already been in enough pain, you didn't need more." He said looking a little fatigued. "I may be able to help with the wings as well but I can't transfer that kind of damage safely. However I can't fix them completely in one night, healing takes too much outta me. I can fix the nerve damage tonight which should allow you to move them easier but I'm not gonna lie, it will hurt allot."

Blu at this point was a mess of emotions, she didn't know how to respond to someone being so helpful. Until now, she thought that life was horrible and even wondered if it was worth living if there was only misery to look forward to. Now she thought differently. She felt something that she couldn't explain when he took her pain. It was as if he was the key to something she didn't know she needed.

"If you think you can then, p-please try." She didn't know why she wanted to do this, she thought it was pointless since her wings served no purpose.

Graphite smiled a small smile then pointed his horn down at Blu while telling his magic to heal her. Blu felt pain flare up in her wings for the first time in a long time, and she enjoyed being able to feel her wings again even if it was painful. Luna lay watching the flow of magic Graphite commanded in mild surprise at his control and output. Andraste watched as both Blu and Graphite began to look exhausted and started to sway on their feet. Just as he was about to speak the glow ceased and they both dropped to the floor. Blu was groaning and moving but Graphite was completely still, his breathing the only movement showing that he was still alive. Before Andraste was able to rush to their aid, both were lifted from the floor and onto the bed with a dark blue aura.

"They are both perfectly fine, do not worry. They are both very exhausted but all will be well in the morning." Princess Luna said after covering the two unconscious beings with a blanket. "She will be safe here I assure you, both Graphite and I will make sure of that. He will likely wake within the hour but she will sleep all night with the aid of my magic, she will need the rest after what she has just experienced. You are dismissed for now but please do return in the morning. "

"I see, I'll take my leave then." Andraste started for the door then stopped. "When he wakes please tell him thanks for healing her, and for being there for her." At Luna's nod he left the room for the night.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

"Ugh, what the hell happened?" I groaned opening my eyes. I was laying in my bed covered up feeling warmth emanating from both in front and behind me. Looking down I frowned seeing a ball of white fur and feathers sleeping against my stomach. Just as I was about to check my surroundings a sleepy voice behind me startled me.

"You *yawn* fell unconscious after the healing spell." I turned to see Luna laying back to back with me talking over her shoulder. "Used too much magic too quickly. While an admirable attempt, that was dangerous. You should be more careful." Stunned at being so close to Luna I only nodded so she continued. "Get some sleep, you will feel better in the morning." With that she lay her head back down and her breathing evened out letting me know she was fast asleep.

'How the fuck am I supposed to sleep with her this close?' This is going to be a long night.

-=-

Movement woke me up in the early morning. Opening my eyes I froze mid yawn at the sight of two teal colored eyes staring back. Remembering last night I finished my yawn and noticed another set of blue eyes also looking at me. "What? Was I snoring or something? " I asked.

"Or something." Luna replied glancing down. At some point in the night I had put my arms around Blu and I was still hugged her to me.

"Oh. Sorry about that, paternal instincts must have kicked in while I was asleep." I meant that as a joke but why else would I have held her like that? I mean I may be a jerk most of the time but I'm kind of a softy when it comes to kids.

"Do you wish to let her go so she can do her job? Also if you wanted to cuddle you could have asked me rather than forcing this young griffoness into it."

"Wait what?" While trying to figure out if I heard her right I must have had a funny look on my face because both Luna and Blu started giggling. I instantly realized that this is the first time I'd heard Blu laugh, let alone smile. "So it is possible!" I said directly to Blu.

She tilted her head with a confused expression on her face. "What's possible?"

"You just smiled and laughed. I was beginning to think you couldn't." I chuckled seeing Luna roll her eyes. "*sigh* Alright kid you'd better start doing whatever it is you're supposed to be doing right now. I don't want you to get into any trouble because of me. Sorry again for holding you hostage." I said setting Blu free from under my arm with a stretching yawn.

"It's ok, I don't mind. I was actually really c-comfortable. " She said with a sad smile.

A knock at the door interrupted my thoughts and a voice spoke from the hall. "Blu, you awake? Master Brennus is looking for you." It was Andraste.

All traces of a smile left her face as she hung her head walking towards the door. Just before she walked through the now open door she glanced back at me. Damn her for making me feel feelings. I placed a protection spell on her just before the door closed, just in case.

"You are a rare pony Graphite." Luna said. "Tell me, earlier when you mentioned your paternal instincts I realized that I know next to nothing about you. For instance, do you have any children of your own?"

Luna is asking me questions to get to know me better, while we're still laying in the same bed. Holy fuck this is weird, and strangely satisfying. "I do not. I've never really been the type to settle down long enough for anything like that."

"Really? None at all? You were being so protective of Blu that it made me believe you had some of your own out there somewhere."

Talking about my past and who I am is going to be difficult. I hate lying to those I respect but it's a necessary evil if I'm to hide who, or rather what, I was. I know that this place, and these ponies are very forgiving and understanding about just about everything, however for once in my life I know what disasters lay ahead. I'd rather not change this worlds history to something that is unknown to me. I finally have more control over my life, and I have plans that I absolutely cannot afford to mess up. I refuse to take a chance at breaking this world or losing what I've gained.

Realizing the long pause in my response I told the truth. "I want to take her from here."

"What?" Luna said quizzically.

"I'm not entirely sure why, but I need to get her out of here." I said putting extra emphasis on the word 'need'. "She's basically alone here with only Andraste who wouldn't even raise a claw to defend her from that pig Brennus. Her 'master' hurts her on a regular basis and no one does anything to stop him, I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I just walked away without helping."

"You have helped, you have healed her injuries and given her hope." She said putting a consoling hoof on my shoulder.

"That's nothing but a pointless effort on my part if she stays here. I can't keep a shield going forever." I said sitting up no longer feeling tired.

She sat up as well, then spoke. "She is a servant owned by a powerful griffon who has nearly unlimited resources at his disposal. What will you do? You can not just take her."

I know she's right, but I can't let this go. Seeing what he's done to her and hearing about how she's treated just pisses me off. None of the other servants have shown any signs of abuse, Blu is the only one that has injuries that were never taken care of. "I don't know, but I have to do something."

"We should talk to my sister about this. I am sure she will understand, and will want to help you. Worry not my friend, we will figure this out." She then pulled me into a hug, enclosing me in her wings.

A few moments later the door opened. "Am I interrupting something?"

Startled by the voice we both jumped away from each other and I landed on my back on the floor. Looking up I saw Celestia with her hoof over her mouth trying to hide her laughter.

The Planning Phase

Author's Note

Not allot of setting in this chapter just allot of dialogue. As always I hope you enjoy! Peace pones! {T}

The Planning Phase

I sat trying not to laugh at the red faced Luna while she attempted to explain why we were so close. Celestia to was having a hard time hiding the mirth in her eyes as she listened to her sister stutter in a panic. I was the first to fail and had to stifle my laughter, upon hearing this Luna turned even more red turning a glare at me. I only smiled in return as she crossed her hooves and looked away.

"Now Luna don't be that way, I was only teasing." Celestia said.

Luna ignored her so I decided to 'poke the bear' so to speak. "If she wants to sit and pout let her. Besides she's cute when she's like this, wouldn't you agree?" I said winking to Celestia.

My comment had the intended effect as Luna's wings shot open as jerked her head towards me with a startled expression. "Wha- why-" is all she said turning an even brighter shade of red before she disappeared in a flash.

"Too much?" I asked Celestia.

"Maybe a little." She said chuckling. "I don't think I've ever seen her do that before you came along. She seems to like you a great deal, remind me again why is it that you two can only be friends? I've seen the way you look at her."

"Respect mostly. We all have our secrets Celly, she's better off this way. Besides I may act like a gentlepony-" Celestia snorted in a laugh, but I ignored her and continued. "but in reality I'm kind of a jerk, and Luna deserves someone better than me." I said with a sigh. "I'd rather not talk about that right now though, I have something I need help with."

Celestia closed her eyes and nodded. "Yes, I overheard the last part of your conversation with my sister. I assume this has something to do with why you've been so anxious as of late?" She continued after I nodded. "Would the young injured griffoness happen to be the subject of the problem?"

"Yes, she is."

"I can not stop what is happening here Graphite." She said. "I thought I had already made this clear."

"You did, but that's not exactly what I wanted to talk to you about. You know more about the griffons than me or Luna, and I want to get Blu out of here. Do you know of any way I can get her out of here without causing trouble?"

Celestia sighed looking down at me. "In this land she is their property and just the same as if you took an object, it would be considered theft. The only way you could legally do that is to come to an agreement with Brennus and purchase her from him." When she paused I felt my hope starting to rise. "However, the purchasing of another living sapient being is strictly prohibited to all those under my rule. While I understand your reasoning for such an act, I cannot allow favoritism. If you do this, you will be judged upon your return to our land."

"What is the punishment for such an 'offense'?" I said with a hint of annoyance in my voice.

"At worst, time in the dungeon and loss of your title. Though under the circumstances, you would likely only lose your title until you're judged to be a safe guardian to Blu. During that time you would be under supervision and have to wear a cancellation ring to ensure the safety of those around you." Staring directly into my eyes she said, "This is nothing personal Sir Quill, these are old laws that I am required to follow. I'm asking you this as a friend Graphite, please think about this before you act."

"What is a cancellation ring?"

-=-=-=-

This is not exactly how I planned to remove myself from the picture. I cannot leave Blu here and I definitely can't put on that stupid ring. The ring cancels out all the magic of the wearer which means no more illusion spells. No more illusion spells means that I would have to explain the pair of wings on my back. Yes, they are still there. No matter how hard I try, I can't get rid of them and they would cause too many questions to arise. So my only option is to do what I have to do then stay away from all lands governed by ponies.

I know I could of course just come clean and tell the princesses who and what I am. The thing is though, I don't want to be different. I want to continue to just be one of them, and not some alien that looks like them. I have a secret that nopony knows and I want to keep it that way. I only wish I could speak with discord before I do this, I've been wondering about a few things. Sadly once I free Blu-

'You called?'

I nearly jumped out my skin at the familiar voice interrupting my thoughts. 'Seriously Discord!? Why am I not surprised... I should've known I could contact you this way.'

'True, you should have. I am after all THE God of Chaos! So anyways how's life?'

'Well enough. How's being "trapped" in stone?'

'Oh you know, I'm keeping entertained. Pranking the nobles, influencing the world, all that fun stuff. Anyways you wanted to talk to me?'

'I really hope you're not always listening in on my thoughts.. Anyways I was wondering-'

"Graphite. May I speak with you?"

'Hang on a moment discord, Luna's talking to me.'

"Sure, what's up Luna?" I said aloud.

"I want to apologize for my disappearance earlier." She said with a slight redness in her cheeks. "Yet again my emotions got the better of me and I fled. Sister pointed out that I tend to overreact when I get flustered."

'You've got that right. What happened to the old Luna that used to buck ponies in the face when they hit on her?' Discord said in my mind.

"It's alright Luna, I'm the one at fault I do tend to tease you allot. I just can't seem to stop myself, you look too cute when you blush." Just like I intended her face reddened and I couldn't help but smile.

'Smooth.

'Hey Discord? You mind?' He's starting to sound like the little devil on my shoulder.

'Ooh! That sounds like fun! Good idea!' Oh god. What have I done?

"Is something on your mind my friend? You seem distracted." Luna asked looking concerned.

Damn it Discord, Stop distracting me! "I'm just thinking about Blu, I haven't seen her since this morning. I had hoped to find her out here working in the gardens again."

Luna sat next to me on the bench gently bumping me with her shoulder. "I am sure she's fine, she is being protected by your spell after all. What about you? Sister told me of your conversation, do you know what you are going to do?"

"I'll do whatever I have to."

-=-=-=-

'Ah humans, always making things more difficult than they have to be.' Discord said.

'I suppose you have a better way? I have to get that kid out of here even if I have to stay away from the princesses territory.'

'Sometimes I wonder why you were chosen.' He mentally sighed in my mind. That law that celly mentioned states that it is illegal to own or purchase a slave and/or servant. It goes on to say ponies shall not own another living and sapient being as if they are property. I'm paraphrasing of course. Now correct me if I'm wrong, you have no intentions of making Blu your property right?'

'Correct, but I'd still b-'

He cut me off mid thought. 'Ok, now think! The law says you can't purchase another being.

'So what, are you suggesting that I kidnap her? I doubt that's any more legal.'

'Oh heavens no! I'm suggesting you make a deal, a trade if you will. You wouldn't be purchasing her, convince Brennus to give her as a gift and offer him a favor of some sort!'

That's not too bad of a plan but there's flaws. 'How am I supposed to convince him to do anything? What could I even offer him?'

Think human. Why would he ask you to come here for a meeting? Do you really think that he wants to talk about your pilfered invention? Or maybe could it be because you are now one of the richest nobles in Canterlot, and he wants something from you.'

He's not wrong, this trip never really made sense to me either. I guess I just got caught up in the excitement.

'You're damn right, I'm right!' Discord said with a smug sounding voice. 'Now then, how about you go talk to this featherbrained griffon and make a deal. You are after all leaving tomorrow morning after breakfast.'

'You know what Discord? You're nothing like I'd expected, I didn't think you'd be helpful until season 3.'

'Season 3? Wait, do you really think that this is the sam-'

Before Discord could finish someonespoke aloud. "Ah! Sir Quill! How nice to see you out here enjoying my garden."

-=-=-=-

After being cut off Discord went silent allowing me to converse with Brennus without interruption. I've been leading the topic towards his servants over time so I could approach the subject without suspicion. He had just finished talking about how his family obtained their first Indentured servants when there was a lull in the conversation. I took that as the best chance I'd have to bring up Blu.

"I've seen how loyal your servants are and I must say I'm a bit jealous. They all seem very efficient at their respective jobs, all except one it seems." I said.

"I believe I know which one you're talking about, number seven." Brennus said nodding with a scowl. "It can't even do the simplest of jobs without doing something wrong. It almost seems to enjoy being punished all the time with how often it fails."

Hearing him call Blu 'it' makes me want to use him as a practice dummy to test my lethal spells on. I'm working on one that should vaporize every single cell of a living being and he's starting to look like a good test subject. Hiding my anger but keeping the dark look on my face I decided to get to the point.

"Seems that she's more of a hindrance than she is helpful. Ever thought of getting rid of her?" I said with an dark smile that a predator like him should understand.

"Well now, the princesses sure keep interesting company these days! I'd say I'm surprised by your interest but I could see it in your eyes when you arrived. That spark, and your hunger for meat? I've met others like you. Those with the heart of a griffon but the body of a pony, and I've had dealings with your kind in the past." He paused glancing around before he leaned in close. "If you want one of mine, just choose one now and we'll talk about price later. Feel free to take your time with as many as you like and do as you wish. Have whichever one you want bring you to my office tonight. We'll discuss this more then."

-=-=-=-

Sometimes I wonder what would happen to this world if I were truly evil. The way things have been just falling into place right in front of me, without much work on my part, is making me nervous. I mean seriously, I barely mentioned obtaining a servant and he basically gives me full rule over them all and the freedom to pick which one I want. Does that not seem strange?

'If it weren't for the super powerful forces influencing the world around you then yes, it would be strange.' Discord's voice said in my mind.

'What do you mean Discord?'

'I mean that there are two forces of magic helping you for the moment, but don't get used to it.'

'Am I correct in assuming the magic of harmony is one of the forces?'

'Well duh! Harmony is always butting in on my affairs.' Discord said with a sigh.

'Are you suggesting that you are the other force helping me?' I asked in disbelief.

'Well you don't have to sound so surprised about it. Can I not help a friend that I may or may not have plans for in the future?'

'Of course you have plans for me. Discord you're starting to act predictable and that makes me nervous.'

'ME?! PREDICTABLE?! I AM THE GOD OF CHAOS! I am NOT predictable!' Discord yelled in my head.

'Yes actually you are. In my world it's a common theme for you to interfere or help the human in fanfictions. Speaking of I'd rather not be influenced like them, after all this is my life.'

'I- but you- blast it, you're right. Fine then. If you think you can handle it then have fun dealing with harmony alone, "Savior."'

'Wait savior? Silence. 'Discord, what the fuck are you talking about? Hello!? Damnit Discord.

"Sir Quill may I speak with you in private?" While I was distracted Andraste had walked up beside me looking agitated.

"Sure, we can head up to my room." I said.

"This is urgent, can your magic make it safe for us to talk here without others hearing?" He said quietly.

Nodding I cast a sound proof shield around the two of us. "Done. Now what's on your mind Andy?"

At first he looked like he was about to comment on the nickname but then hesitated and shook his head. "Ok look, I heard from the others that your looking to buy one of us. Considering yesterday's performance I'd guess Blu is your target. I like to think that I'm a good judge of character, and you seemed to care about Blu's well being. So that's why I want to talk to you first before I decide what I'm going to do." Sounding frustrated he stopped for a moment attempting to calm down. I noticed his muscles tense up as he glared down at me, but I held my ground. "Why are you showing so much interest in Blu, and why are you trying to buy her from Brennus?"

Starting to dislike his tone, I allowed my magic to build and radiate from me as I walked straight up to Andraste. "Because I can't leave her here to continue to be abused." I said vehemently. I'm not sure if it was the build up of pressure, my words, or the tone of danger in my voice that made him take a step back. However I never got the chance to find out as my sound proof shield was shattered by a powerful force.

"Both of you stop this at once, you are causing a scene." The sound of Luna's voice made me realize how much magic I had been drawing from the area around me. I let the power fade and took a moment to calm myself and explain the situation.

After the explanation Luna looked conflicted, keeping her eyes on me the whole time as if I'd dissapear if she looked away. "So I take it you have decided to accept the repercussions of your actions?" She said in a somber voice.

"Well, no not really. I may have a way around the law but I don't know if I can manage it yet. However if I can't then I might end up spending some more time with the griffons." I said.

"Are you really willing to go that far for one young griffoness? To face judgment or the equivalent of banishment for a creature you have only just met yesterday?" Luna questioned showing no emotion.

Thinking back I started to realize that the old me never would have risked this much for anyone. Has this world changed me? Could the magic of harmony slowly be changing me into one of them? God I hope not, I like being an ass. Either way I can't back out now after going so far to help Blu, I have to do this regardless of my inhibitions.

"Yes, I am." I said with finality.

The Deal With The Raven

Author's Note

Ok, so to start with I'll explain the title of this chapter. The 'bad guy' in the last few chapters known as Brennus is named after a Gallic leader who sacked Rome waaaaay back a long time ago. His name is a Celtic name/title that means king, prince, or raven, hence the name of the chapter. Next I'd like to warn you all about the slight cliffhanger at the end of this chapter, it was definitely unavoidable. Lastly I'd like to say that I've got one more chapter after this then I might take a small break until I can figure some things out on here. I've been planning a particular chapter for a while now~~, and I plan to include a picture to go along with it so be patient~~. Edit: Pic has been added at the end. The art was done by the amazing LordValtasar! Anyways I hope you enjoyed the chapter! Peace fellow pones!

The Deal With The Raven

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Graphite spent the rest of the day wandering the lands around his host's property alone until it was time for dinner. The dinner passed without incident, Blu served them all without fail and even passed a small smile whenever Graphite looked her way. Luna would watch as Graphite passed an encouraging smile back when Brennus was distracted. She had been deep in thought for most of the day trying to get her emotions in order after hearing her friends decision. She didn't know how he planned to get away with bypassing the law but she hoped that he knew what he was doing, she didn't want him to get in trouble for trying to help another being. Luna also had a more selfish reason for her worries, she didn't want to lose a friend. If Graphite were to lose his title over this he would no longer be allowed into the castle unless he was called upon by herself or Celestia.

Celestia herself was also having an internal debate about Graphite's decision. Luna had told her that Graphite was going to try to find a way around the law, so now she was trying to decide the best course of action for herself. While she may have her suspicions about him, she still considers him a friend. She needed to talk to him before he could go through with his plan. Celestia's decision could be made for her depending on Graphite's actions and if he has found a way around the law. Celestia also made a mental note to have a good long talk with both her sister and Graphite separately. Maybe I'll even get Cadance involved. She thought to herself with a half smile as she disappeared with a flash.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

Sitting in the outside garden, while slightly boring, has been my favourite pass time on this trip. It's calm, quiet, and actually quite beautifully well tended. As always I had been trying new things with magic, but only subtle things that others wouldn't notice. The most recent is magic sight, which allows me to see the flow of ambient magic and sources of magic even if they are behind solid walls. Should come in handy some day, and hopefully it will help me find disguised changelings when that episode happens. I ceased my spell when I saw a blurred form of somepony teleporting next to me. Using the magic sight shows me the sources magic in its base form, and I knew it was Celestia before she even appeared because of the fiery blaze of her magic.

When Celestia did appear I was already looking her way. "Hey Celly. What's up?"

"Good evening Sir Quill. May we speak for a moment?" She asked in an even tone.

"Of course princess, I'm always willing to chat with royalty." I said with an exaggerated bow. "Shall we walk and talk?"

As we left the garden and started down the main hall I used my magic sight spell to locate the spells I had cast on both Blu and Brennus. Blu was close by but Brennus was too far away for me to see with the spell so I started leading us towards her. Celestia started to speak just after she cast a silencing shield around us. It's similar to my own but seemed weaker, though it didn't need to be strong when there were only griffons around. Those magicless turkeys wouldn't even notice the spell let alone be able to do anything about it.

"I've been told that you plan on trying to circumvent my slavery law. May I ask how you plan to do this?"

Just after she asked I stopped at the door closest to us and knocked. Celestia looked confused and gave me a questioning look but stayed silent. A moment later a servant answered the door then bowed when she saw us. I cut her off before she was able to speak. "Could you have Blu come out here please?"

"I'm s-sorry Sir Quill, I don't know who that is." She said.

With a sigh I repeated my request with Blu's other name. "Could you have Number Seven come out here please?" I hate calling her that.

"Right away Sir Quill." She said before turning and walking back into the room.

A moment later Blu came out looking a little nervous. "Heya kiddo, how's your day been?"

She glanced at Celestia then back to me before answering. "Good actually. Master Brennus tried to hit me, but I didn't feel it so I just pretended that it hurt so he wouldn't try again.." Her voice lowered as her head did, she was now looking at the floor.

I put my hoof under her chin and gently lifted her head to look at me. "You did good kid, that was smart. You might need to do something like that again tonight but for now you, me, and the Princess here have to talk.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

It was nearing midnight when Graphite and Blu separated from the two princesses. Celestia had begrudgingly agreed to their plan after a long debate with her sister about doing what's right. Graphite was in turmoil over what he may have to do to convince Brennus to make a deal. He decided to take the aggressive approach thinking that acting more like a griffon would increase his chances of getting on Brennus' good side.

"We're h-here." Blu said quietly.

Graphite smiled and bent down putting a hoof on Blu's shoulder. "Now Blu I want you to listen to me. Earlier I mentioned that you might have to act hurt again, and that time is now. Don't worry about getting hurt, my shield WILL protect you, but he won't know that. If he tries anything at all just act like he hurt you. Got it?" She nodded in understanding. Sighing Graphite continued in a low voice. "The same goes for me, whatever I do or say will all be an act, ok? No matter what I say while we're in there, I just want you to know one thing." He paused for a moment to ponder how to say what he meant. "I promise you that I will never hurt you, and I will always protect you."

Blu felt a strange feeling of happiness and hoped that he was telling the truth. She wasn't sure how to respond to such a promise and did the first thing that came to mind. She stood on her back paws, threw her arms around his neck and cried. She'd never felt safe around anyone until he showed up, not even Andraste made her feel like this. She felt that as long as he was around, nothing could hurt her.

Graphite was startled by the sudden hug but slowly wrapped his arms around her in return. Empathy nearly caused him to tear up before he regained control and realized how much he'd really changed since coming to Equestria. The wall he had long ago created to keep his emotions at bay was slowly starting to crumble, and that scared him. He never cared to think that his life could amount to anything, nor had he ever wanted it to. He'd grown contented, but never truly happy. He lived his whole life under one rule, that he didn't deserve to be happy. In his mind happiness only led to disappointment because 'when you're happy, life will always smack back you down'. 'But maybe,' he thought, 'this time will be different. Maybe just this once I can indulge and be happy.' Distracted by the embrace, the two failed to notice the presence of another watching them from down the hall.

Releasing her from his grip Graphite smiled at Blu. "Are you ready for this? Remember, I won't allow you to be hurt."

"I.. I'm ready." Blu said sounding both terrified and resolved.

With a nod from the unicorn she walked up to the door and knocked. They heard movement from inside and a voice telling her to enter. Graphite opened the door with his magic allowing Blu to walk inside before he cast an illusion around himself and walked in closing the door behind him. From all other points of view Blu was the only one to enter. The illusion absorbed the light around Graphite instead of reflecting it, then changed it to match the door behind him. This spell was a spur of the moment idea he had had to make a grand entrance as a show of his power. He hoped to at least make Brennus think twice before trying anything untoward.

"What is it runt? I am busy." Brennus said with a sneer.

Cowering low to the ground Blu answered. "M-master Quill insisted that I bring him to you. He said that you would know why."

Slowly at first he began to understand what she meant and started to laugh. "You? He really did choose you after all. Ha, you unlucky little albino freak!" He said with a chuckle. He then got up and walked up to her. "Send him in then head back to your room, I'll be there shortly after." He paused long enough to sniff the air before glaring down at her. "And get yourself cleaned up, your smell is offensive!" He then swiped at her face only for his claws to catch nothing but air, Blu was no longer there.

Graphite had planned to let him hit her knowing the shield would protect her but he couldn't take seeing the abuse happen right in front of him. Deciding to reveal himself he lowered the spell and spoke. "Now now, there's no need for marking up that pretty little face."

Startled, Brennus jumped back. "S-sir Quill! How did- where-..." Clearing his throat he started again. "That's quite the trick Sir Quill, I hadn't known you were there. I assume you are here about that little deal I mentioned?"

"Yes I am. However seeing as I am traveling with the princesses, I of course have to obey their laws. Therefore no money can be exchanged for this deal to remain legal." Graphite said without emotion.

Brennus burst out in a deep belly laugh. "You underestimate me! Believe it or not I am well acquainted with your laws and I know of the one you speak. You are not the first pony to, shall we say, procure a servant of mine." He sat at his desk and started rummaging around in one of the drawers. "Ah, here it is!" He said pulling out a scroll and holding it out to Graphite.

"What's this?" Graphite questioned.

"A little contract I wrote for such occasions as this, please read it then sign your name if you agree to the terms. Sign that paper and she's yours to use however you want."

Graphite's eyes glided back and forth across the parchment as he read its entirety several times. "What's the catch? It says here you'll make a request of me in the near future, but it doesn't say what you will have me do."

"Ah yes, normally I'd request a donation for some charity or another to pay off the debt. Theses charity's don't exist of course, but for you? I believe I have something else in mind now that I've seen some of what you can do with your magic." He gestured for Graphite to sit in the seat across his desk.

"Alright. I'm listening."

The Trip Home

It's done. The deals made and Blu is now free as far as I am concerned. I should talk to her about a new name, a real name that won't remind her of this place. Checking behind me using my magic sight I saw that Blu was still following me quietly, shrouded in my illusion spell. Once I was sure there were no others around I released the illusion then teleported us to my room where the princesses were waiting. As soon as we appeared Luna was up and walking towards us, looking us over as she walked as if checking for injuries.

"How did it go, what happened?" She asked sounding concerned.

"I'd say it went well enough." I replied as I summoned the parchment Brennus signed. "She's a free griffon and nothing was exchanged, money or otherwise."

This news caused Luna to beam as she hugged both me and Blu. Celestia however seemed unconvinced. "He is not the type to give gifts. What does he get out of this arrangement Sir Graphite Quill?"

Ooh full name and title? Celly sure knows how to make a guy nervous, but I stand my ground. "With all due respect Princess, that's our business. The deal was made with no laws or rules broken. As it states on this paper, nothing was exchanged in return for ownership of Blu and as her new guardian I freed her from all obligations towards me or any other. She's a free griffon." While it was difficult to hold her gaze I never once looked away.

She then surprised me with a small chuckle. "Alright Graphite, I'll let this go for now. I must warn you however that griffons are dangerous. Whatever you owe him had better be worth it." She stood and started walking towards the door. "It's getting late, we should get some sleep. We're leaving after breakfast which is only 7 hours away." As she walked into the hallway she glanced back, then I heard a her voice ring out in my mind. 'Luna, come.'

Luna must have heard her as she furrowed her brow before turning to look at Blu and I. "I should be off to my room as well, good night both of you. Sleep well Blu, starting tomorrow you will be beginning a new, free life." The two princesses then left closing the door behind them.

While curious as to what that was all about, there were more important things to take care of. "So, how's it feel?" I asked turning my attention to Blu. "You know, being free and all that."

Her gaze glanced around but eventually stayed on the floor in front of her. "Impossible." Closing her eyes she took a shuddering breath before continuing. "I d-don't really know what to think really. I'm scared but also hopeful that this isn't a dream."

Pulling her into a hug and casting a calming aura on the room I spoke quietly. "This isn't a dream, and this is happening. You're free now, you can do whatever you want." Pulling back from the hug I gestured towards the bed. "Come on, we should get some sleep." I said with a smile.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Luna lay in wait for sleep to take her, but her mind was still racing forbidding her the privilege. Many things have changed since her return and things seemed to be looking up for her. Graphite had given her a big boost in confidence, however there were still things she was too nervous to do. One of her main duties to her people was something that she was still uncomfortable with since her return. She feared what she would find in the dreamscape since she was last there. She had caused a great deal of problems when she was there as Nightmare Moon, but she knew she would have to deal with it eventually. Luna had planned to take it one slow step at a time to prepare for her journey, but Celestia had other ideas.

Celestia had asked Luna to pick up where she left off, helping ponies deal with their dreams. What bothered Luna was that she was asked to specifically look into her friend Graphite's dreams first. Celestia gave no reason as to why other than that she felt that he should be the first. Luna promised her sister that she would do so as soon as she was able and in a safer location. In a moment of internal silence she thought she heard a small thud from the next room, the same one that Graphite and Blu were in. Concerned she arose from her bed and walked out onto the balcony intent on flying over to the one attached to Graphite's room.

She was momentarily stunned to see somepony already sat there looking up at the night sky. "Graphite?" She quietly questioned as she hopped off the side and flew over to him. He seemed to be lost in thought about something and barely acknowledged her arrival with a glance sideways at her. "Is everything alright?" She said sitting down close enough that she could feel the warmth radiating from him.

He continued to watch the night sky for a moment before he spoke softly. "I didn't think things through enough. I was too hell bent on saving her that I never thought about what happens after." He signed and looked over directly into Luna's eyes. "What the hell am I going to do with her now? I can't take care of a kid Luna, I'm not responsible enough for this."

Luna smiled as she leaned against Graphite, and smiled. "Graphite, you saved her from a life of slavery. I believe that alone constitutes responsibility."

"I just don't think I'm the best pony for the job. I mean, I don't know the half of what I'm supposed to do for her! I know how to keep her alive but I don't know anything about raising a kid, let alone a griffoness!" Graphite said in a loud whisper.

Unfolding her wing she hugged him to her side. "Graphite, somepony once told me 'All a foal needs is love, somepony to take responsibility for them, and a safe place to call home.' Correct me if I am wrong but I believe you already have that covered."

The two stayed silent leaning against each other and looking up at the stars for a long time before their eyes met. Neither seemed to want to be the first to look away and time seemed to slow for the two of them as they slowly started to lean towards each other. Just as they were mere inches away from each other a whimper could be heard from the room behind them. Using the distraction Graphite stood breaking their embrace. "It's getting late, we really should try to get some sleep." Graphite said suddenly unable to look at Luna directly.

Luna red faced and unsure of what had nearly just happened cleared her throat. "Ah um y-yes I believe you are correct. I will s-see you in the morning then." She turned and flew back to her balcony without another word.

Before Luna opened the balcony door she realized that the whimpering sound had to be Blu. She knew that whatever the issue was, Graphite could handle it. Curiosity however, got the better of her and she decided to go back to make sure everything was okay. She quietly returned to his balcony and peered in through the glass door. Graphite was laying next to Blu singing something that Luna didn't recognize. She slowly cracked open the door so she could hear the words easier.

♩♩"-dreamland is silently calling for you. Sleep now and don't make it waaait."♩♩ Graphite finished the song and turned to wave at Luna. After realizing she'd been caught she silently closed the door and flew back to her room with a red face.

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

Dawn is near and I'm fucking tired. I couldn't sleep at all after what nearly happened last night with Luna. The way we were leaning on each other, the warmth of her body, and the beautiful night sky above nearly caused me to lose myself for a moment. In other news I think me and this ball of fur and feathers are going to have to take some time to get used to each other. She's still really jumpy and shy about everything and while I do find the shyness endearing, I need to put a stop to her near constant fear of others. Last night when I came back inside I found Blu crying in her sleep having some sort of nightmare. When I went to lay down next to her she jolted awake terrified of me until she realized she had been dreaming. I strengthened the calming spell and did what I could to put her back to sleep.

As the sun slowly rose flooding the room with light Blu stirred awake and almost in a trance started towards the door. "Just where do you think you're going little one." I said startling her. She stopped, taking a moment to take in her surroundings and seemed conflicted. I realized that she's probably used to getting up early and starting her chores. "You no longer have any orders to complete and no time limit on your sleep. Come on back to bed, you were up pretty late and barely slept."

Blu hesitantly walked back to the bed and climbed up. I nearly had to force her to sleep on the bed last night because she'd never been able to in the past. The only reason she didn't protest last time was probably because of how tired she was after being healed. I watched as she turned in a circle 3 times, like a dog (ironic right?), before laying down all the way across the bed. Smiling at her little show I decided to talk to her and maybe help with her anxiety. "Hey, why are you over there? I promise I don't bite."

Looking anywhere but my eyes she lowered her head and shrugged. "I-I just d-don't want to be a b-bother."

"You didn't seem to mind laying in between me and Luna last night." She blushed and shrugged at my teasing tone. "Seriously though, you'll never be a bother to me. If you need something or want something, don't be afraid to let me know. I'm not Brennus, nor will I ever act like him willingly." I said in a serious voice before I continued in a playful voice. "If for some reason I do start to be mean, I'll allow you full rights to kick my butt until I realize I'm being a jerk."

My attempts at being funny were semi-sucessful as she smiled a bit. I patted the spot right next to me and smiled hoping she'd come closer. At first I didn't think she was going to move but she stood and made her way closer before starting to turn in a circle again. I couldn't help myself this time and let out a snort of laughter that made her pause to look at me. "W-what?" She asked.

"Nothing, you just look cute when you do that." I said smiling at her expression of confusion. "Do you do that every time you lay down?"

"Y-yes, I don't really know why. I've never seen the other servants do it." She said, then she lowered her voice and asked, "D-do you want me to stop?"

"NO, no please don't. I like it, it gives you character. It makes you different from everyone else just like me." I replied with a chuckle.

"But I thought being different was bad?"

Can't say I'm surprised, everyone thinks that their supposed to act exactly like everyone else. This is one of the main reasons I try to keep to myself or be with my true friends. Strangely enough the only friends I have exist solely in a magical land of talking animals. "Heck no, being different is a good thing. We all have our own separate lives and thoughts because we are supposed to be different, and unique. For future reference if someone makes fun of you for being different, don't take it to heart. They're probably just jealous of you for being brave enough to show how different you really are."

"M-master Brennus used to-"

"NO!" I said interrupting her. "HE is not your master! You have no master. You are free Blu, you don't have to call him that anymore." Seeing the look of fright on her face I sigh. "I'm sorry Blu.. I didn't mean to scare you, I just don't want you to feel like you still need to answer to him." 'Great job dumbass, you scared her half to death with your little outburst.' I thought to myself.

"It's okay, I was just surprised is all. I trust you." At those words she curled up against my side laying her head near mine.

Damnit. I think I actually felt, happy, hearing those words. This world is really putting allot of strain and stress on the mental wall I built to keep my emotions at bay. "I'm glad to hear that. I'll do my best to never betray that trust." I said hugging her to me. "Now what were you about to say before I interrupted?"

Snuggling into the hug she started again. "Mas- I-I mean, Brennus used to call me an 'albino freak' all the time. He said I was a mutant breed of griffon, because of my white fur."

Shaking my head and rolling my eyes I tried to calm down before I spoke. "Brennus is an insecure idiot of a griffon that doesn't deserve what he has. Don't pay any attention to what others say about you Blu, you are who you are and you should never think that you have to change for others. Besides, I like the white fur. Makes you look like nobility!"

She looked down at herself. "E-even if I'm still covered in dust?"

"Even if you're still covered in dust."

-=-=-=-

After another hour of laying in bed, a knock woke us up. It was time for breakfast but I know there would be problems if I brought Blu to the table. To avoid causing a scene I sent the servant to bring two plates with a bit of everything back to the room.

"T-thank you for helping me get back to sleep last night, I had a scary dream. I liked that song you sang."

"It's one of my favorites from back home, I'm glad I could help." Speaking of dreams, isn't Luna supposed to be able to control them to help ponies? I should ask her if she can look out for Blu as well. "I've been meaning to ask you about your 'name'. As I understand it your called seven by Brennus and his wife, but some of the servants call you Blu. Would you prefer to be called something else? Would you like a new name to start your new life with?" I asked.

She seemed to have never considered the idea as she looked off in thought. "I.. I think I'd like that." She said smiling at me. "I want you to give me a name."

Slightly surprised by her words, it took me a moment to ponder where to even begin in finding a fitting name. "Well, this is something I'll have to take some time to consider. You griffons seem to have names that are closer to what I'm used to back home, so it should be a bit easier for me to find you a suitable name."

Tilting her head to the side she asked, "Where are you from that has ponies with griffon names? Seems a bit funny to me." She giggled.

I honestly don't mind being a bit more lenient with my secrets around Blu. She seems smart enough to pick up on things that most ponies would miss, so I don't think I should try to keep stuff from her. "Oh I never said they were ponies. Anyways I'm happy to see that you're feeling better today, though who wouldn't be happy about being free."

We spent the next few minutes talking to each other before I heard a knock out in the hallway. It didn't sound like our door being knocked on but instead Luna's right next to ours. I heard her door open then close less than a minute later. We then heard a knock at our door.

"Breakfast Sir Quill."

After getting the food and closing the door I laid the plates on the rooms small dining table. Pulling out a chair for myself and Blu, I levitated a pillow from the bed over to her chair so she could sit higher to easily reach her food. "Come on over and eat, there's plenty so just take it slow. I doubt you've ever eaten this much at once so take it easy, I don't want you to get sick."

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Blu was taken aback by the amount of food Graphite was offering her, she'd never eaten anywhere near that much in a week let alone in one sitting. She was especially amazed to see a big fat steak included with the rest of the food piled on the plate. She only hesitated for a moment before climbing up onto the chair and quickly started in on the best food she ever had.

"I'll let it slide because we're alone but I really hope you don't eat like that all the time!" Graphite laughed as he watched her blush before she slowed to eat with more care. "After we're done do you wanna come with me to keep Luna company while she eats? She had the same idea as us, she is in her room right now." He asked letting his magical sight spell fade.

"I like Luna. Are you two, you know, together?" She asked innocently.

Graphite unexpectedly felt a hint of loneliness and longing at this question. He immediately shoved his feelings back to try to ignore it, but the damage was done. His emotional dam had sprung a leak, and he knew it. "Um, no actually. We're just really close friends."

"Well that's okay, I've heard from the others that it usually starts that way." Blu said finishing off her meal.

"I hope for her sake that it doesn't happen at all." Graphite quietly said with a sigh before clearing his throat. "So, ready to head on over?"

"Sure!" Blu was curious about what he meant by 'for her sake' but decided not to bring it up right now.

-=-=-=-

Not long after the two visited Luna did they receive word from Celestia saying that it was time to leave. Blu was both overjoyed and terrified at the prospect of leaving the place she'd been trapped her entire life. She knew this was the beginning of a new life for her and her new pony guardian. She knew she'd miss a few of the servants who helped her, Andraste being one of them. Blu hoped to see him again eventually and was slightly saddened because she never had the chance to say goodbye.

When the two princesses, Graphite, and Blu were leaving they were met by Brennus and his wife at the door. Goodbyes were spoken and bows were exchanged as Graphite cast illusions showing a false version of Blu that looked messy and beaten. The real Blu sat hidden beside Graphite safe and clean. All was well with Blu, Graphite, and Luna as the four of them boarded the airship without fanfare.

Celestia however was at odds with herself over the mysteriously powerful and deceptive unicorn that seemed to have stolen her sisters heart. She wanted so very much to trust him as Luna did, but something was off about him. Something didn't seem right about his actions or abilities. He was very different from anypony she had know in the last thousand years. Upon reconsidering that thought she realized that must be why Luna thought nothing was wrong. Ponies have changed a great deal since Luna was banished, at one time ponies like Graphite were common. She still loved all her little ponies but they had become, for lack of better words, ignorant of how the world works. 'Perhaps the old ways of pony kind still exists? He must have been raised by those that prefer truth over complacency..' She thought to herself. 'Only time will tell I suppose.'

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

We made it to the airship without an issue and I for one can't wait to get back home. Did I really just think of Canterlot as home? I suppose I do like living there more than I do back on earth but still, can I really consider it home? I've never even felt truly at home back in my house on earth and I'd lived there for quite a few years. Perhaps I'm overthinking things again, I probably only like living here because I generally know when something bad is about to happen and how to avoid it. Back on earth something simple would set people off on a rampage and turn a once safe town into WW3. I remember when the bird and swine flu outbreaks started, people physically fighting over toilet paper and hand sanitizer in stores. I never understood why people automatically think it's the end of the world every time there was an outbreak of something dangerous. Things change, and while I may not like it, I can at least keep my intelligence intact. Shit happens, that's just how the world works so calm the fuck down people.

"Is something wrong Sir Quill?" Celestia asked, breaking me from my thoughts. "You seem distracted."

"Huh?" I realized that I'd been staring off into space and standing still on the deck of the ship long enough for it to take off. "Oh, no I'm fine. Just lost in thought for a moment." Glancing around I noticed a lack of a certain princess and griffon. Turning to my magic sight I found Blu below deck, seeing the left over traces of my healing magic from the other night. I also saw Luna's darker flowing magic not far away and most likely in the same room.

"Your eyes... If I may ask, what spell are you casting right now Sir Quill?" Celestia asked slightly concerned.

Oh shit, are my eyes doing something weird? I've never looked in a mirror while using my magic sight spell. "Oh um it's just something I learned by myself so I don't know if it has a name already, but I use it to see the flow of magic. I was looking for the lingering wisps of healing magic I used on Blu the other day."

"You continue to surprised me nearly every day, Sir Quill. I have seen you do many things I've never heard of, and even more that I never thought I'd see again. When you obtain your cutie mark I will not be surprised if it has something to do with magic." Celestia said. "When you have the time I'd suggest going to Ponyville to talk to Twilight. She is very astute in all matters magic, she is also the holder of the element of magic. I believe you could learn allot from each other."

Tempting but no thanks Celly, I'll be keeping as far from her and the rest of the mane six as possible. "I remember her, I'll be sure to talk to her if I'm ever in the area. Since we're on the subject, how's her brother doing? Last I heard he was captaining a squad in the Badlands."

"Shining Armor is well, he and his squad met up with Princess Cadence and are escorting her back to Canterlot." A small smile lit her face. "Apparently they have made an important decision that they'd like to discuss with my sister and I."

This must be about their wedding. Though if I remember correctly that's still a long way off, the gala still hasn't even happened yet. "From the look on your face I'd say you already know what they wanna talk about."

"Their hints were not as subtle as they thought, that and I have a great many sources to draw information from. I suspect that Cadence will want to stay at the castle for a while," She said before looking at me with a mischievous grin. "-after all it's not often that a princess falls in love."

"I assume you're talking about Princess Cadence and Captain Shining Armor?" I asked cautiously. I did not like the look she was giving me.

"While certainly a possibility, I was not referring to her." Before I could speak up and ask what the fuck she was talking about she cut me off. "See to your charge Graphite, I doubt 'Blu' has fully came to terms with all that has happened yet. You must be there for her when she does." She said while walking towards the ship captain's cabin.

-=-=-=-

Okay. I'd like to point out that I am not one of those stereotypically dense men that can't tell when a woman likes them. I know exactly who Celestia was insinuating and I don't have to be the princess of love to know what's happening between Luna and I. Honestly? I'm trying my best to keep it from happening, but obviously I'm failing miserably. I can't let whatever this is between us continue, it won't end well for either of us.

'And why exactly is that my human friend?'

*Sigh* 'Since when have we been friends Discord? I don't need to justify my thoughts to you.'

'Fine, fine. I'll just answer my own question then. "I'm a human, she's a pony it'd never work. What if she found out, blah blah-"'

'Really Discord? I'm not every human MC on fimfiction ever, I have my reasons and they actually make sense.'

Suddenly everything stopped, like someone hit the pause button on a remote. The guards, the crew members, and even the passing scenery stopped moving as my attention was drawn to the massive shadow on the deck of the ship. I turned around to see a mountain sized Discord standing over the vessel and staring at me. Before I could react he flew up higher than the highest clouds then started to free fall posing as a diver would when jumping into a pool. Something seemed off however when I realized he wasn't getting bigger as he fell closer. By the time he reached the ship he'd shrunk to the size of a mouse and dove straight into my mane.

"Was all that really necessary?" I asked shaking my head. The tiny draconequus walked out onto my nose and dove directly into the wooden planks of the deck as if they were made of water. "I'm walking away now." I said turning around.

"You really don't have a sense of humor do you?" Discord asked me.

"I do. Though It's clearly not compatible with yours lately." I said continuing to walk away.

"Ah humans, forever the enigma. Before you stubbornly decide to ignore me, I'd like to administer some advice."

Sighing I stopped. "Alright, say what you have to say Discord." I turned to look at him then sat waiting for his advice.

"Hey! Don't you put that word in mental air italics like that, I'm trying to be helpful here!" He said crossing his arms and pouting. "I am not pout-, oh whatever! I was just going to say that you shouldn't deny Luna's happiness because of your stupid insecurities! I should really stop trying to be helpful, curse me and my new dimension resolutions!" He then snapped his fingers and vanished. A few seconds later everything returned to normal and we started moving again.

Ladies and gentlemen, Discord at his finest. I thought being friends with Discord would be fun but so far he's been a little bland... No response? Good he's not in my head anymore, anyways what was I about to do again? Ah, I remember! I was about to check on Luna and Blu, they're too cute together. Luna knows just what to say to keep Blu talking, which is helpful for rehabilitating the kid. Blu's still young and impressionable so within a few months she should be just like any other kid her age, if I don't fuck it up. I know I freaked the fuck out at first but now that I've had some time to think I realized that the biggest issue I would face is impossible here. Money. I've looked after younger family in the past and I know how to keep them out of trouble, so normally the issue would be being able to provide for her. However since I'm basically the richest pony in Canterlot, beside the princesses, I don't think I'll have any trouble buying whatever she needs. Meat won't even be a problem, I set up a side deal with Brennus to have regular meat deliveries made to the castle to split between Luna, Blu, and I. Why Luna? Because that mare handles meat like a champ, and yes I realize how that sounds. Seeing her put away three full sized steaks, before I even finished one, gave me dirty thoughts. I know I'm weird, get used to it.

-=-=-=-

You ever feel like the trip coming home is always faster than the trip away? Feels like I only spent a couple of hours talking then slept the rest of the trip. I had quickly weaved a new hammock for Blu using rope from the ship so she wouldn't have to squeeze into mine or Luna's. She seemed to really like it, saying something about it feeling like a nest.

In less than an hour I'll be able to scare the fuck out of my boss when I suddenly appear in her home with a newly adopted griffon. I've grown to like living with the feisty old mare but I should really find my own place. In all honesty I'd love nothing more than to have a home in Ponyville just to witness everything first hand/hoof. Then again I don't want my presence to inadvertently change the story, and even if I kept hidden from the mane six, Pinkie would find us just to throw a party.

My thoughts were interrupted by a strange lingering magic I sensed coming from below us. Something felt off, it's similar to the feeling I get around Discord but it's definitely not the same. Casting my magic sight spell I closed my eyes and focused my senses on the feeling. I learned that the spell didn't actually require my eyes to see the magic, I could feel it around me. I also found out that I could extend the reach of my senses as long as there were no visual distractions. In the forest below is I could feel hundreds if not thousands of strong sources coming into focus, and they weren't animals. Animals sources are barely noticeable even at close range, but these I could sense from all the way up here. 'Do the princesses not sense this?' I've got a bad feeling about this...

Author's Note

Time is progressing and things are happening. As we get past these original story plots we will arrive at some more familiar scenes from the show. Or will we? Muhahah! ... Ahem, anyways yeah things will be getting to some more familiar territory in terms of the show. Theres a few specific episodes that have reeeally peaked my imagination, and I can't wait to get to these in my story. My ideas for these chapters have really put me in the mood to write but it will take me some time, so be patient. It'll be worth it I think. Anyways as always I hope you enjoyed, and peace fellow pones!

The Chapter Title

I never thought I'd say this, but I missed Canterlot. I've enjoyed my time here don't get me wrong but I never thought I'd miss seeing all the uppity nobles roaming the streets. I'm beginning to feel like I belong here on this world, though it's a foolish thought to have. I may walk like a pony and I may even talk like a pony but I'm still a human. Blu's expression at seeing Canterlot for the first time left me feeling an odd sense of pride that I made this possible. I'm responsible for saving her and giving her another chance at life when no other would. I've only known her for a scant amount of time but I can already feel a connection to her that I've rarely ever had. I love her, and not in any weird perverse way, but instead like a daughter. Huh. Like my own daughter. That thought both excites and scares me.

Once landed we had all agreed to having lunch together the next day after we rested from the trip. Celestia and Luna retired to their rooms leaving me and Blu to start our walk to the small library where I'm temporarily bunking. I was tempted to just teleport us but decided against giving my older boss a heart attack considering that she will likely already be shocked by her new meat eating housemate. I'll have to apologize for the sudden change and explain Blu's predicament. Speaking of..

"Were you serious when you said I should name you? 'Seven' is a slave name and 'Blu' is a bit too, on the nose." I said to Blu ruffling the blue tipped feathers on top of her head

"Y-ya, I want you to give me a real name." She said with a demure smile.

"Well if you're sure then I guess it's about time I gave you one, Cara." I said watching as she stopped walking to stare at me. I smiled. "Something wrong Cara?"

Blu, now named Cara, stared at me with a look of hope in her now teary eyes. Smiling yet again I sat, nodded, and opened my arms for a hug. She wasted no time and leapt into my arms, I held her for several minutes until her tears stopped and her breathing evened out. Starting to pull away I realized that she fell asleep, I slowly picked her up with my magic and laid her on my back. I continued walking towards the library at an even pace careful of the precious cargo on my back. Damnit kid you've got me thinking like a pony, I'm not usually this much of a pansy. I don't think I've ever used the word precious in any way that wasn't supposed to be sarcastic.

A short time later I arrived at the library opening the door and keeping the bell above it from ringing with my magic. It was getting close enough to closing time so I locked the door after making sure nopony was still inside browsing. I only sensed one source upstairs so I began making my way to my temporary living space to allow Cara the use of my bed while I talked with my boss. Mrs. Binding came out of her room just in time to see me opening the door to mine. She started to open her mouth to speak before noticing a certain ball of feathers and fur sleeping on my back. Her eyes grew wide enough for me to see the unspoken question radiating from her mind. I held up a hoof before walking into my room and closing the door a bit louder than I meant to. I could feel Cara stirring from her sleep as I placed her on the bed under the blankets.

"It's okay, you're home now." I said as soothingly as I could. "Go back to sleep, I'll be here when you wake up." Thankfully she didn't wake up completely, she only smiled and curled up drifting back to sleep. After that was done I returned to the hallway where Mrs. Binding waited.

"First you ask about griffon prostitutes and now you bring a fledgling home? Now I know you weren't gone that long." She said jokingly.

-=-=-

"So you adopted a slave, freed her, and essentially sidestepped a law right in front of our princesses." Page said condescendingly.

"Yeah, pretty much." I said with a shrug.

"I'm having a hard time figuring out if you're a bold pony or just a stupid one." She said shaking her head in exasperation.

"A little bit of both most likely. Honestly though being a noble and being direct friends with the princesses, gives me some leeway with stuff like this. However I don't plan to bend the rules like that again any time soon." I replied.

"I should hope not. No matter the reason, however noble it may be, it's wrong use your friendship with our princesses to disregard the law."

'That sounds suspiciously like a friendship lesson..' I thought. "I know and I promise I won't make it a habit, but I couldn't just ignore the situation."

"While I believe there were other options, I can't say I blame you. I'm sure I would have done the same thing, though with a bit more tact." She said before taking on a serious expression. "You realize what being responsible for a griffon fledgling means right? The meat, the molting of feathers, the beak and claw sharpening, and not to mention the attitude changes during puberty. Then you have to worry about different phases like when she starts trying to turn everything into a nest, or when-"

"Woah! Hang on for a second! The meats taken care of and as for the rest, I'll figure it out as I get there. How the fuck do you know about all this anyways?" Just what in the hell did I get myself into!?

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Luna relaxed her mind and let her magic flow out to linger around her room. She was both excited and nervous about entering the dream realm again. It had been a long time since she had last attempted to enter the mind of a sleeping pony and she feared what may be waiting for her in 'his' dreams. Celestia had asked Luna to attempt to enter the dreams of Sir Graphite Quill under the guise of possibly helping him, but Luna knew better. She knew her sister didn't completely trust him, and she knew that it was because of how quickly he was becoming more than just a friend to Luna's eyes.

By delving into his dreams Luna hoped to banish any lingering doubts that her sister might have. While clearing his name is her top priority, she secretly hoped to glean his true feelings towards her from his unconscious mind. Luna had lived a great many lifetimes compared to the average pony, and she never found a reason to become attached to any other than her own immortal race. She could never understand why Celestia had taken husbands in the past, only to have them die and cause her grief after what seemed such a short time in her own eyes. Now though, she realized her mistake. After her banishment she realized just how fast time flies when you have nothing, the days pass as if they never happened due to their repetitive nature. Now she understands what it's like having somepony she truly cares about around. Every day is full of new experiences and thoughts when she's with Graphite.

With her thoughts settled and memories of Graphite on her mind she reached into the dreamscape with her magic, simultaneously finding and banishing nightmares as she went. Her powers here were limited only by distance. She cured the dreams of ponies, griffons, and minotaur alike. Her magic flowed through space and time reaching only to the outer edges of Equestria allowing no creature to go unnoticed. All except one were touched by her magic for the first time in a thousand years, guaranteeing a good nights rest to all. Saving the best for last she withdrew her magic tendrils from the rest of Equestria and focused on the one untouched soul sleeping soundly a mere few minutes walk from her own home. The outward appearance of Graphite's dream showed no signs of distress, discomfort, or anything else for that matter. He was in fact dreaming, but at the same time it seemed transparent almost as if he wasn't. Luna could pass between dreams without a physical presence using only her magic guided by her senses rather than by physical movement and sight. His dream however repelled her magic with ease.

While not the first to do so, his immunity to her magic shocked her into nearly letting her concentration slip from the dreamscape. In the past she had seen only a few who required a more direct approach. As if fading from existence her physical body slipped completely into the dream realm.

Author's Note

I realized that the last chapter left me with only 85 words till I hit 50k and I couldn't leave it like that for very long. So, I decided to work on one more quick(hence the title) chapter before I took my time to figure out the next few chapters and events. As always, I hope you all enjoyed and peace fellow pones!

The Voices In My Head

Sweat clung to my coat as I sprinted down the halls of the castle taking random turns to try to lose my attacker. Regardless of my attempts to lose the predator, I could still hear the rapid beating of wings right behind me. Taking the next corridor I saw, I stopped suddenly and ducked. It had the intended effect and my pursuer flew straight over my head. I took the chance and ran back the way I came as fast as I could. Looking back I saw an empty hall, but just as I was about to celebrate my escape I ran head first into somepony. We both went down hard tumbling over each other before stopping with the other on top of me. Once my vision cleared I immediately recognized who I crashed into.

"Luna!? Hurry get up! She'll be here any moment now!" I said in a loud whispering. Luna simply planted her hooves on my chest and grinned devilishly, holding me to the floor. "She got to you didn't she?" I asked, sighing in defeat.

Luna nodded, grin never leaving her face. "Cara! I've got him!"

From down the hall I could hear the fledglings wings beating slower than before as she leisurely made her way to us. "Ha! Caught ya!" Cara said as she landed next to me and tagged me.

"Fine, fine, you got me." I said rolling my eyes. I turned to look at Luna. "As much as I like the idea of being pinned down by you, I'll have to ask that you let me up." Luna blushed and rolled her eyes, then Cara giggled. "Celestia is due back at any time now and she still hasn't let us live down the time she walked in on us hugging."

"She still knocks before she enters my room and makes the same joke every time." Luna said as she stood and winced. "Ow.. Have you ever thought of playing hoofball? You've got a strong tackle for a unicorn." She held out a hoof to help me up, I took it and stood up.

I chuckled as my horn lit up aiming a healing spell at Luna. "Sorry about that, I was getting a little too into the game. Its been awhile since I last played tag, it used to be a favorite of mine. My si-" Shit.. "My cousin and I used to play all the time. Um anyway we should probably fix all that stuff we broke." Celestia's away in Ponyville letting Fluttershy torture her pet phoenix. Being the adults, Luna and I started a game of infection tag with Cara after sending all the staff and nobles home for the day. Immature adults: 1 Boring Nobles: 0

"I uh.. I may have broken a vase or two while chasing you dad." Cara said lowering her head in guilt.

Every time I hear her call me that, my heart stutters. Over the past few months we've gotten much closer, and she's made allot of progress towards becoming a normal kid. We made it through winter wrap up and even went to the young flyers competition. Then after the competition was finished I managed to convince the Wonderbolts, with Celestia's blessing, to help teach Cara how to fly. I healed the team of all their bruises and sprains after the incident with Rarity, so they were happy to help. Not long after the lessons started Cara was able to keep up with their more basic stunts, so it seems my magic fixed her wings well enough. After her last lesson she asked if she could call me dad, which admittedly made me tear up a bit..

"That is nothing, I busted a door down to catch this one off guard." Luna said pointing a hoof at me. "Your father will fix it."

"Really Luna?" I said. "What are you gonna do if I refuse to fix the door?"

"Then I will blame you." She said grinning. "Who do you think she will believe?"

"You demonic little-"

"What happened to my room!"

Luna's eyes shot open wide. "Run!"

All three of us ran for the nearest exit.

-=-=-

"I've come to expect this sort of thing from you Luna, but Graphite Quill I am surprised at this. I thought you to be more mature than this." Celestia admonished.

"They started it, and Luna broke a door down!"

"Traitorous fiend!"

"Spoiled b-"

"ENOUGH! Both of you are children! *sigh* What part did you play in this Cara?" Asked Celestia while holding her head in her hooves rubbing her temples.

"I may have b-broke a few vases while flying.." Cara said with a small titter.

"Those are easy enough to repair, don't you worry about it." She smiled and patted Cara on the head. "Now, what am I going to do with you two?"

"Wait! Why does she get off so easily?!" I asked. Celestia turned to look at me so she didn't notice when Cara stuck her tongue out at me with a smirk. 'You're going to regret that when we get home kid.' I thought to myself.

"She is a child, accidents happen. You and my sister are adults. You should know better than to horse around in the royal castle." Celestia said. I couldn't help but snort a laugh at her choice of words. "Graphite. Go home." She said closing her eyes and shaking her head in exasperation.

"Yes ma'am!" I said with a mock salute. "Come on Cara."

"Bye Princess Celestia! Bye Luna, I had allot of fun!" Cara said before hopping onto my back just in time for my teleportation spell to bring us back home.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

"Have you finished repairing all the damage Luna?"

"Yes sister, everything is as it should be."

"And?"

"And as a princess I should have reacted with dignity rather than join the chase. There, are you happy now sister?" Luna said with a pout.

"Well your apologies could use allot of work but I'll accept it for now." Celestia replied as she purposely bumped into her sister on the way by. "Any changes in the dreamscape lately?"

The abrupt change in subjects forced Luna from her thoughts of revenge on Graphite. "Not really, no. All is well in the dreams of our subjects, however there is still no change in Sir Quill's."

"Are you able to force your way in?"

Luna shook her head as they walked. "Not even a little. He awakens every time I try no matter how careful I am."

A look of trepidation crossed Celestia's face as she thought about what to do. "Do you still not find it strange? Nopony can just block their dreams like that, you said it yourself."

"While I do not understand how this is happening, I know for a fact that he is not aware of my attempts. If you wish I will ask him directly, he would not lie to me."

Shaking her head Celestia said, "No Lulu, for now just please keep trying. Let me know if you do manage to break through, I worry about what this odd affliction might mean for our friend." Celestia had been dreaming of the Savior for the past few nights, wondering when he would make another appearance. When she imagined the Savior, she thought of a powerful creature that could cast any spell and change the world for the better. So far, to her knowledge, he had only helped with Luna's return, but even that she was starting to doubt. What if it wasn't the Savior but instead a dangerous foe that came through the portal? What if this unknown foe is targeting those around her? Is that what's happening to Graphite? These questions and more circled around in her mind every night, keeping her from resting her tired body.

'We need to talk.' Celestia broadcast the thought with her magic for anyone powerful enough to hear. I'm done waiting. She thought to herself.

"Sister what are you doing!? That being might be listening!" Luna said frantically.

"I hope for once that he is. I think it's high time we found out what came through that portal."

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

"No! Stop please!" Cara said between bouts of uncontrollable laughter.

I kept tickling her. "This is retribution for sticking your tongue out at me, so I'm not going to stop until you apologize."

"Never!"

From cold hearted bastard to father acting like a child. Oh how the times have changed. I've always wanted a daughter since I was old enough to leave home. Now that I have one, though not technically sired by me, I'm beginning to wonder how different things would be if I'd never screwed things up with Raya-

'We need to talk.'

I stiffened upon hearing the voice in my head, it was Celestia. They've not spoken to each other through magic for some time now and I know they are both likely still near each other. This can only mean that she's speaking to me, the voice that interrupted their magical conversation several months ago.

"Dad? Is something wrong?" Cara's worried voice brought me back from my thoughts. I'd stopped moving completely when I heard the voice.

"It's nothing Cara," I smiled. "I was just wondering if you finished your chores before we left for the castle."

She stiffened. "Heh, about that..." I sat and crossed my arms with a playful glare. "Okay okay! I'll finish putting the rest of the books away." Resigned to her fate she left our room to help Mrs. Binding. The old mare had taken to Cara immediately and started teaching her everything from general knowledge to how to run the library.

Charging my horn I teleported away from the library feeling like taking the risk. I'm still not sure if they can track me down through this magic but let them try, it will only lead them to their own castle. I now stood in a dark room in one of the far off guest wings of the palace. One spell later and the room lit with a deep blue glow emanating from a light sphere that now floated in the center of the room. Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves I replied to the voice in my mind.

'I'm listening.'

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Luna was annoyed that her sister chose to act without consulting her first. She never trusted this otherworldly being, nor did she trust this supposed prophecy from Starswirl. He was a very talented mage but never had he mentioned prophecy before he vanished. She was at least happy to know that Celestia thought it that there was a possibility of the creature being evil. Luna shivered at the intrusion of its voice in her mind.

'I'm listening.' Rang out the deep voice of a male in the minds of the princesses.

'I wish to know, what is your purpose here? Are you a danger to our race, or are you here to help?'

'All fair questions indeed. I shall answer them under one condition. My mirror, the portal.'

Celestia had known this would be brought up. 'Until I deem you safe, I cannot allow you access to your portal. I do not know you and I am not willing to take any chances under the circumstances.'

'Afraid I will use it to bring back armies? Unfortunately for you, I need no armies. Your world has gifted me with abilities that far surpass anything I could bring from that world.' Fake it till you make it right? Use fear of the unknown to get my way. 'Besides, I care not for chaos. I believe in peace though I will not abide those who wish to do me harm.'

There was a time of tense silence as both sides considered how to continue. The males voice broke the silence.

'I have no purpose here. It was a pure accident that I even created the portal on my side. As for your other questions, yes I can be a danger, if provoked, and no I am not here to help. My people know a great deal about your own kind. We know the future of Equestria, but I refuse to use my knowledge and risk ruining your timeline. Things must occur as they are supposed to without the taint of foreknowledge. I will not tamper with destiny.'

A new voice entered the conversation. 'I grow wary of these voices in my mind. Must we continue to hide from each other? I suggest we meet face to face and figure this out once and for all.' Luna had grown tired of this whole experience, she had enough of worrying about the dangers and wanted the issue dealt with.

'I suppose.' The male voice said wearily. 'I will make my appearance know to you at the Gala. This way we are on neutral grounds, I will be surrounded by guards and innocents alike. If you promise my safety, I will even disable my magic upon arrival.'

'You have my word as Princess Celestia co-ruler of Equestria that you will not be harmed. However I must ask that you use one of our own anti-magic rings if you're willing to go that far.'

'Fair enough princess. Be sure to have one ready at the door for me. Until then, Princesses.' The male voice said in conclusion.

Celestia and Luna looked to each other with the same look of apprehension as they felt the presence of the being fade. Neither knew what to expect in the future of Equestria or if they could trust the voice. "We should alert the element bearers to the situation so they will be ready should he not keep to his word." Said Luna.

"I agree. I shall send a letter immediately."

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

That went well enough I guess, though I'll have to disguise myself. I'd still prefer to keep my current life separate from my human one, it's just easier that way. I'm just Graphite Quill a unicorn noble, not some alien, and as long as I can keep everything separate I'll be able to live in peace. The gala should be interesting considering I'm already supposed to be there as myself. I'll just have to find an excuse to leave early, change my coloration, change clothes then return. Wait.. Fuck! I still don't have anything to wear to the Gala. I'll just have to get a suit somewhere and have it fitted.

The light in the room faded as I drew the magic of the light spell back into myself. With a flash I teleported back home to my room and appeared just above the bed landing without a sound. No sooner than I hopped off the bed, the door opened and Cara walked in yawning. "Tired?" I asked.

"Yeah, I had quite the workout today chasing you two around." She giggled as she yawned again before jumping onto the bed. "I think I'll turn in a little early tonight. What about you?"

"I need to talk to Mrs. Binding first but then I'll be heading to bed as well." I said.

"Okay, good night dad."

"Good night hun, sleep well." I pulled her into a hug and held her for a moment, enjoying the warm feeling spreading in my chest. "I love you kid. Never forget that."

-=-=-=-

Walking down the stairs I released the illusion spell that's been covering my wings for a few months now. At first keeping the spell up constantly limited my other magic because of the drain it had on my source, but now it's second nature to me and the drain is barely noticeable. As I made my way to the main area of the library I unfolded and stretched my wings. I still can't make it off the ground but I can move them just the same as any pegasus can. Cara was amazed when she found out about my wings and swore to secrecy after I promised to fly with her some day. I was paying apt attention to her lessons so I know what to do but it's as if I'm still physically unable to get off the ground. At least I can glide if need be.

"Page, can you give me a hoof with something?" I asked to the open air of the library. I hadn't seen my boss but I knew she was around somewhere.

"Just a moment dear." A voice said from behind the main desk.

"Dear? You've never called me that before."

"Just like you never call me by my first name?" She chuckled. "Sorry Graphite, the last pony to call me by my first name was my husband. I'm used to everypony calling me Mrs. Binding these days. Anyhow, what did you need help with?"

I hope this works the way I think it will. "I'm in a bit of a bind and I need your opinion on something."

"What's wrong? I'll help if I c- uh Graphite.." She cut herself off and started staring at me. "What's happening to your coat?"

The old mares confusion is understandable considering her point of view. My ugly ass color combination of green and blue faded and changed. I now stood before her with a pure white coat, red hooves, and a red and white mane and tail. "How do I look? Still like me?" I said spreading my white wings out.

She stared at me for a few moments with narrowed eyes before speaking. "Graphite Quill. What have you gotten yourself into now?"

"You already know that I have abilities in magic that aren't exactly normal, and when I was first figuring out my magic I accidentally eavesdropped on a conversation." I paused for a moment to ponder how much I should say. "Normally when caught in such a situation I'd apologize and try to make amends, but the situation isn't exactly normal. I may have accidentally and unintentionally interrupted a conversation between Celestia and Luna, and may have also called Celestia a bitch."

As expected her eyes went wide at the idea of somepony calling their great immortal leader a bitch. "Graphite! Why in Equestria would you call her that!?"

"Well, at the time I didn't realize she could hear me."

"You're lucky you didn't get thrown into the dungeons!" Closing her eyes and shaking her head she continued. "Why the color change then? She obviously didn't take offense if you're still standing here, that and it's been months since you learned how to use magic."

"Well that's the thing, she doesn't exactly know it was me. The conversation I interrupted was magical in nature, they were speaking to each other from different locations with some type of telepathy."

She sat for a moment in silent thought. "While I can't say I understand such magic, I do understand how this could be problematic. Though haven't you become close with the two of them? I'm sure if you explain the circumstances they will understand that it was an accident. Were they talking about anything that you shouldn't have heard?"

"I am rather close to them both but it's not quite as simple as apologizing and calling it an accident. While it was just a friendly chat between two sisters and nothing secretive, according to Luna, this magic is only prevalent in alicorns."

"Aren't you technically an alicorn now?" She asked.

"I don't think so. I'm pretty sure that I'm still just a unicorn that grew wings. I mean hell I don't think these things even have the magic required to be of any use other than as a parachute." I replied while stretching out my wings. "Besides that, I heard portions of their previous conversations before I figured out my magic."

"I see. What happened afterwards? This much time has passed without any noticeable repercussions so why change how you look?" She questioned.

"To say that they were suspicious, would be a massive understatement. I've heard nothing through the magic since then and I can tell they both have something weighing on their minds. They've been stressed for a while now and so far they've shot down all my attempts to help."

"Maybe there's something else going on that's on their minds. We don't know for sure if this is about you." She said.

I started shaking my head. "No, they've been talking about it while I'm at the castle. The way they're talking about it would make little sense to anypony that isn't involved but I understood their references." With a sigh I got to the main issue at hoof. "I talked to them again earlier today through that magic. I wanted to try make amends and give them a reason to trust me so they'll stop worrying so much. I agreed to meet them at the Gala and wear one of their anti-magic rings."

"Graphite you'll be completely defenseless! What if they decide to throw you in the dungeons?" My boss said looking concerned. "Think about Cara."

"They promised me safety as long as I did as they asked, I trust them to keep their word."

"Graphite listen. I know you trust them, but they don't trust you! Well, this you anyway." She said gesturing to my current look. "If they truly believe you to be a threat, don't you think they would be willing to lie just to capture you?"

That's certainly a possibility.. "If that's their plan then I'll have to figure something out." I replied with a shrug.

"Graphite they know you! The real you, and they trust you. Just admit to your mistake and tell them it was you, please! They may be angry but at least they won't do anything rash." She said with a pleading gaze.

If the circumstances were different I would, but they're already suspicious of 'the voice' being the same thing that came through the portal. I found that out one day when I eavesdropped on their conversation from around a corner covered in my illusion magic. I feel a little guilty about that one but I needed information. "There's more to this than just what you know. More than I'm willing to talk about right now." I'm beginning to think that I'd be better off telling her the whole truth, it'd be nice to have help from someone who knows what I really am. "Just trust me on this, I'll be fine."

-=-=-=-

After changing the subject and changing back to my usual colors I bid my boss good night and went to my room. I didn't conceal my wings since it would just be me and Cara in the room till morning and she liked it when I held her with my wings while we slept. She said it felt natural and comfortable so I oblige whenever I can. To my confusion however Cara sat on the edge of the bed watching as I opened the door.

"What are you still doing up, I thought you were tired?" I asked.

She looked down avoiding my gaze. "I heard loud voices and wanted to see everything was okay so I came down.. I overheard Mrs. Binding saying something about you getting taken to the dungeons. A-are you in trouble dad?" She said with tears in her eyes.

I immediately walked up and pulled her into a hug, where she started sobbing into my chest. "Everything will be fine Cara. I'm not in trouble with the princesses, I just made a mistake that I have to fix." I sat there holding her for a long time before I spoke up again. "Come on, let's get some sleep. I'll explain more in the morning." She nodded and I released her so we could both get under the covers. Once I was comfortable she curled up next to my side and I covered her with my wing, holding her until she finally fell asleep.

I still have a hard time believing how much has changed in just a few months. I'm not entirely sure if I really need to go back to earth, I mean what's there that I don't already have here? My old family of course, but I can't say I really care too much since we were never really close. Cold hearted I know, but they made it their mission to just be background characters when I was growing up. There's really only one person I think I'll miss, she's also probably the only one who would notice my disappearance. She'll probably wonder where I went, she's smart enough to notice my missing clothes and duffel bags. I wonder what she did after my disappearance, knowing her she probably tried to find me. I still can't understand why she doesn't hate me after what I did. I can't think about this right now...

By now the bank will have taken my house and my car, then there's the mirror... Hopefully nobody accidentally opens the portal, I'd rather no more humans came here. It's bad enough that what's his name is flying around doing who knows what in the guard. Even I've changed some things already though so far only off camera stuff as far as I'm aware. The only problem I can see is this whole business with the Savior. I know for a fact this prophecy crap that Discord mentioned was not in the show. I'll have to remember to ask the princesses when I'm at the Gala as my other self. Things are starting to sound suspiciously like the plot to a bad fanfiction..

The Mistaken Identity

Author's Note

WARNING: SOME EVENTS IN THIS CHAPTER WILL LIVE UP THE THE MATURE TAG! SOME SCENES INVOLVE BODY PARTS THAT SOME PEOPLE ARE APPARENTLY OFFENDED BY! You have been warned.

Anywho this is the second pre-written chapter that I've written after my little break. I think there should be maybe one or two more on the way that I wrote before I even posted this. So ya, I hope y'all enjoyed and peace fellow pones!

The Mistaken Identity

Something seems off with Canterlot lately. The stuck up morons that usually wander the streets have been lacking their usual 'bark' for the last few weeks. I watched a noble apologize to a tourist the other day, they bumped into each other when they both turned the corner going opposite directions. The noble asked if the other pony was hurt! That shit just doesn't happen around here. Don't get me wrong, allot of ponies are still the same noble jackasses but there's been more and more that are acting nicer..

It's kinda creeping me out in all honesty, I get goosebumps when I pass these nobles. Maybe the upcoming Gala is making them act this way? Fuck if I know, I always try to avoid them anyways. Cara has also been on edge whenever we walk by some of them, which that in itself isn't exactly unusual, but when some of them walk by she stiffens and walks closer to me. When I ask her what's wrong she just says she felt funny when the pony walked by. It's not really a common occurrence as it usually only happens two to three times a week. Today however is a bit off.

"Dad? Can we please go home?" Cara asked as we walked past another strange noble. That makes six so far just in the half hour we've been out walking the streets.

I'm enjoying these walks less and less lately because of these weird feelings. My instincts are going haywire just like Cara's. "Ya, I think that'd be for the best." Charging my horn I marked the latest creepy pony with my magic, then teleported us home.

"Graphite? What are you and Cara doing home so early? I figured you would still be on your walk." Mrs. Binding said when we appeared at the library's front desk.

"We just felt a little uncomfortable with all the creeps walking around so I brought Cara back."

"Dad, are you going back out there?" Cara asked looking concerned.

"Yeah, I'm tired of this weird atmosphere. I plan on getting to the bottom of this."

-=-=-

I've been following the earth pony I tagged with my magic for the last hour. I followed the trail of my magic and found him talking to random ponies on the street. So far that's all he's done, just walk and talk to anypony willing to listen. Is this what the nobles do all day, just chat up the city's residents? Wait.. Why did he stop? Aaand now he's staring at me, time to disappear! I started to turn down another street only to be stopped by a force holding my hooves to the ground.

"Just where do you think you're going?" A burly voice said behind me. My legs started to move to turn me around on their own, the unicorn's horn glowed blue using telekinesis. Once completely turned around I saw a rather large stallion in solar guards armor. "This way if you would, we need to have a talk."

As if I have a Choice bud. He started walking towards the pony I had been following who turned and started down an alley. I realized fairly quickly that I could easily break his hold on me, but my curiosity is getting the better of me so I'll allow it for now. Entering the alley I saw two paths, straight forward was a dead end, and then there was the path to the right where the other pony stood waiting. The guard walked me down the path to the right which I saw was another dead end.

As I reached the wall at the end I felt my legs be released from the guards magic. "So what are we here to talk about? I doubt guards usually take ponies into alleyways." I said as I turned around of my own accord. They both stood blocking the exit as if I were going to run for it. 'I can teleport dumbasses.' I thought to myself. Taking a look at them through my magic sight spell I didn't see anything out of the ordinary, they looked exactly the same as every other normal pony.

On second thought, that's not normal. The solar guards are chosen specifically for their strength, so being a unicorn this guy should be irradiating magic like crazy.. Focusing my magic I looked a little closer at the unicorn and noticed a darker greenish aura behind the blue I'd seen before. Nobles acting nice, Cara's griffon instincts, and a green aura hidden behind a fake blue aura. Changelings. Are they here already? Discord isn't even "free" yet, did they really infiltrate Canterlot this early on? Only one way to find out.

"Did you guys know that you are really bad at blending in? I doubt our queen would be happy finding out that you two nearly blew your cover trying to 'capture' one of your own." Bluffing like a mother fucker.

My words completely threw off whatever their plans were, they stood looking confused glancing at each other then back at me.

"Queen? Don't you mean the princesses?" Replied the earth pony.

"Drop the act you morons, I grow tired of this. You imbeciles nearly blew my cover, you're lucky Queen Chrysalis needs every changeling for her plan! I have half a mind to end you both right now but I'd rather not have to clean up whatever is left!" I'm pretty sure I'm correct so why not have fun with it?

They glanced to each other again before the unicorn started talking. "Sir, if you are in league with the changelings I will have no choice but to restrain you and throw you in the dung-"

"That's enough!" I interrupted casting a spell to disable their magic. Just as I expected they both erupted in green flames changing back to their bug form. The astonished look on their faces almost made me laugh and break my cover. They both started to get into an attacking stance. "Really now you two. You do know the punishment for treason correct?" I said.

"I don't know how you knew what we are or how you forced us to change back but I know you are not one of us!" Said the changeling in armor.

Deciding to take inspiration from the queen herself I started the maniacal laughter. Changelings may be good with deception, but humans are better. Lighting my horn I changed the aura of my magic to match theirs and cast an illusion over myself. From their perspective I was engulfed in green flames and transformed into one of them, but In reality I never changed. I then stopped my laughter and grabbed the both of them by their necks with my magic and lifted them from the ground.

"YOU DARE QUESTION YOUR SUPERIOR!?" I shouted after casting a sound proof shield around us. A look of pure terror crossed their faces as they struggled to breathe, but I'm no murderer. I let them drop to the ground where they started to gasp for air and unsteadily get to their hooves.

"W-we are sorry your lordship. We did not sense any trace of our magic coming from you, we thought you were a normal pony." Said the changeling without armor.

"That's the point, you idiotic nymph! Do you even understand our reason for being here? Useless. NAMES, RANK, AND ORDERS NOW!" Ah fear, the best way to deceive the enemy.

Standing at attention the first of the two without armor spoke. "Nit, Third Rank Infiltrator Sir! My orders are to gather information and emotional energy from any pony I can then report back daily!"

"And you?" I asked the one in armor while trying to sound annoyed and displeased.

"Husk, Second Rank Infiltrator Sir! My orders are to obtain vital information about the layout of the castle and the guard patrols within the city!"

"And?" I said irritably. Neither answered glancing at each other and shrugging their shoulders. "Your primary orders were to NOT BE CAUGHT! Now get back in disguise and get back out there!" I shouted forcefully shoving them through the shield allowing it to shatter. They were immediately engulfed in green flames changing back to their pony forms and scrambling to get up and leave.
Dumbasses.

I watched as they ran from the alley and started to draw the magic from my illusion back into myself, before I felt something slide down my horn immediately cutting off my draw.

I heard someone yell, "Seize him!" and the last thing I remember was something hitting me from above.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Princess Celestia watched the bound changeling stirring awake on the floor of its anti-magic cell deep below Canterlot. She sat waiting, intent on getting answers from the creature regardless of the method used. The last time she had met a changeling was a great many centuries ago when Emperor Incitatus was still in power, she had thwarted their plans and was able to force them into hiding. This occurred in a time where less than moral practices were used to gather information from imprisoned enemies, and she planned to employ the same methods now. As soon as she heard of its capture she had taken the creature here herself and dismissed the guards. Nopony needed to see their kind and loving Princess Celestia slowly disembowel this monster.

Sending a spark of power into the bars of the cell caused the runes to ignite and the containment spells to activate. Once turned on the cell would continuously drain magic nearby its walls, and it would even draw the magic straight from the living being inside if it came too close. The Princess herself would have difficulty escaping from the cell alone, but with the added protection of the anti-magic ring? Nothing could ever escape.

The changeling slowly arose from the ground, its hoof immediately going for its horn. She then heard it muttering something vulgar under its breath. She continued to wait and watch until it started looking around and noticed her sitting outside the door. She was amused by its sudden jolt of panic as it started towards the door, before scrambling back into the middle of the cell. If any creature stayed too close to the walls for too long the cell would suck them dry of all magic and inevitably kill it. The changeling seemed to understand that possibility as it sat in the center of the room unmoving.

"We are going to have a nice long uninterrupted chat." She said with a growing smirk.

-=-=-=-

Celestia walked up the last few steps exiting the dungeon into a large room full of her Solar Guards. Taking a moment to breathe and consider her words she looked at each one individually, wondering how many of them were really changelings. One pegasus stood out from the rest as she recognized the guard that brought the bug in for questioning. "Your the one who found that creature correct?" She asked looking directly at the pony in question. He nodded once before stepping forward into a bow. "Where did you find it?"

"It was in the alley between two buildings in the residential district, your highness." The guard replied.

"I have reports saying that you were 'taking a shortcut' when you found the creature and tackled it to the ground knocking it unconscious. Are my reports correct?"

"Yes your highness."

"Very well, you are all dismissed." She said heading towards the rooms exit.

"What of the creature? Should we post a guard?"

Celestia stiffened slightly but never stopped walking. "The creature had an accident and is mortally wounded, it will not survive the night. Any creature that goes beyond this room shall be considered a traitor to the crown. Let that thing rot down there."

-=-=-

"Sister this news troubles me. How many do you believe are out there impersonating our subjects? For that matter how have we not noticed them when a simple guard can tell that something is wrong?" Luna asked anxiously.

"I'm still not entirely clear on how that guard knew it wasn't a pony he saw. He told me that the 'pony' felt dangerous to him and his instincts took over. As for how many? It's impossible to say at this time, the changeling couldn't even give me an accurate count." Celestia said while continuing to write her letter to her niece.

"What is the name of the guard who brought this 'changeling' in? I wish to speak with him myself."

"His name is Silent Whispers. Shining took a liking to the stallion and gave him a high ranking position right after meeting him. In a few months time he moved up the ranks to become one of my Solar Guards. He has quite the achievement list, he has yet to fail a single mission." She said signing the letter then sending it off with her magic. "We must keep the threat under wraps for the moment, until we at least know more about our current situation. However I believe you should warn Sir Quill, I believe his magical abilities could be an asset to our cause."

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

Fuuuckk! Everything hurts! That bitch knows sure knows how to torture a guy. Took me hours to escape that cell, the bitch is lucky I don't want to change the storyline because I have half a mind to kill her right here and now. The changelings are smarter than I thought, turns out that the two changelings I "tricked" knew I was faking the whole time. Then while I was distracted by them they used that hive mind bull shit of theirs to warn their queen, who then sent two behemoths to capture me. I gotta say, I was not expecting them to have access to anti-magic rings.

Oh and it also turns out that those rings are stupidly simple to overload. Damn thing nearly blew my horn right off my head when it broke though. Good news? I'm free from my cell and completely free to go whenever I want. They can sense magic just like I can use my magic sight, which is how they knew I was a fraud, but as with every cartoon villain ever they think they're safe in their hive so they've been ignoring their senses. I've walked past hundreds of these morons by now and none have realized I'm an actual pony! I'm legitimately walking past them without any illusions being active because they think I'm just a disguised changeling. How did I get captured again? Oh ya, I got cocky and thought I was invincible. Idiot..

Why am I still here rather than teleporting away? Ill tell you why. That bitch of a queen got my sex drive kicked into high gear! I fully understand why she would be considered the queen of seduction. She spent HOURS explaining in excruciating detail about what she would do to and for me if I told her how I was able to detect her changelings. At first I was kinda freaked out but then she started re-enacting some of the things she's done to stallions in the past. Even went as far as having one of her minions turn into me before she started to show me 'what I was missing out on.' That lucky changeling bastard. Anyway she's gonna pay for that shit, I've got a spell cooked up with her name on it.

I live in a library, I read allot, and I am a curious guy. So one day when I was browsing the shelves I noticed a large book that wasn't quite closed all the way on the bookshelf, so I pulled it out and found out why. Somepony had closed a magazine inside the book and returned it, though how it never fell out Is beyond me. What was the magazine you ask? It was a fucking porn mag. Being the ever curious man I am, I looked through it and ended up finding what was essentially the pony equivalent of a penthouse forum entry. I am not ashamed to admit that I read and thoroughly enjoyed it.

What does this have to do with Chrysalis? Oh you know, just a little spell I learned from the magazine entry. The bitch got me all worked up only to deny me any kind of 'closure' in the end, time to return the favor.

-=-=-

Following the trail of magic she left behind, Chrysalis was simple enough to find. She was by herself in the throne room looking bored as fuck staring off into space. The only response I received when I entered the room was a sigh before she cast a bolt of magic my way. The bolt hit my shield and was absorbed effortlessly. This at least got more of a reaction. "Have you come to be the martyr and try to convince me what I'm doing is wrong?" She then stood and started walking slowly towards me. "Or perhaps you're here to tell me what I wish to know and claim your prize." She said in a low sultry voice.

"Neither." I said smugly as I let loose my spell. She immediately stopped walking, her hind legs starting to wobble as she moaned. The spell I just hit her with should leave her in a state of pleasure right on the edge of pure bliss that would never cum. Yes I literally meant cum. The spell will keep her pussy stimulated and just on the edge of cumming but never allow that final pleasurable jolt that sends her over the edge.

I powered the spell enough to leave her on the edge for at least the next six hours. I'm the true evil one here. Have you ever been rubbing one off and right as you get close to nutting someone walks in forcing you to stop and cover yourself? Imagine that feeling of being so close but never being able to finish. Torture is what it is. I could have simply hit her with a more dangerous spell if I had wanted, but I don't hate Chrysalis enough for that. In fact I kinda wanna fuck her..

I watched her squirm for a moment before I decided that I'd seen enough and started charging up for a teleportation. However before I could fully cast the spell, my concentration was interrupted when I was pulled telekinetically to the face of the grinning queen. What I thought at first to be an attack turned into something I did NOT expect. The changeling queen grabbed my head and thrust her lips into mine. My eyes widened and before I fully realized what was happening I was on my back and under her.

-=-=-=-

I fucked up! I regret every choice I've made today and I'm never leaving the library again. That bitch is insane! I haven't got a fucking clue on how I managed to focus enough to teleport out from under her, especially since I didn't really want to. I really need to calm the fuck down after that, I'm way too excitable right now and I don't even know where the hell I am. Wait I recognize that door..

I really need to leave befo-

"Graphite? Where have you been? Luna's been worried sick trying to find you." Oh thank God it's the other one. I doubt I could handle being around Luna right now.

"Heya Celly, what's up?" I said in greeting with a fake happy smile. "Why would she be worried, did something happen?"

"There was an incident earlier today. Come, let's speak in my study." Celestia said, but before she turned away she smirked. "What has you all riled up?"

Damn you, boner!

The God of Chaos

Author's Note

Ok so I've been trapped on this chapter for some time now. I'm trying to reveal some of 'Graphite's' past to explain his apprehension about being with Luna. I'm honestly not happy with this chapter but I can't move on until it's done and past so this is what it is for now. Hopefully it's not too confusing to understand and I got the general idea across. I basically just need to get past this chapter as quickly as possible so I can actually get to the better parts of the story. Again, I am NOT happy with this chapter. At some point hopefully I can go back and rewrite this but for now, it is what it is. Anyways I hope y'all are staying healthy and safe out there! Peace fellow pones and sorry about this chapter. {T}

P.s I've reread this chapter and it's still not exactly what I wanted but I did add a small bit to the end since it was originally posted. {T}

The God of Chaos

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

Celestia is brutal! She told me about the current situation involving the changelings and how one had been captured for questioning. She only mentioned it's "accident" once and pretty much avoided telling me what really happened, but from the look on her face I'd say it wasn't a pretty sight. She didn't really tell me anything new, only that the changelings just found out about the wedding but that's still a long way off if I have my episodes straight. The only part of our talk that surprised me was when she asked me if I could find a way to detect changelings. I told her that I didn't know what to look for but I'd keep an eye out. Though I do feel bad about having to lie to her, it's necessary for the storyline. I wasn't even aware of her knowledge of their presence during the episode, it seems odd that she'd still be beaten after having all this time to prepare.

She had allot of stuff to take care of so I made myself scarce after she told me what was happening. Luna's wandering around the city with her own group of guards but it's most likely just a scare tactic because she can't tell a pony from a changeling any better than the average pony. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little worried, but I know she can handle herself in a fight and the 'lings are more interested in information for the moment. They won't attack the princesses until they're ready for an all out assault. However considering my earlier capture and that little incident with Chrysalis, even just the thought sends shivers down my spine, I'm likely going to be a target.

Speaking of being a target, I have yet to lower my shield and I doubt I will any time soon. My head is starting to hurt from the dual vision of regular color and the magic sight spell, but I not getting caught again. Though the spell I put on Chrysalis should be ending soon, maybe she... Nope, bad brain!

Don't judge me.

Finding changelings among the rest of the ponies is getting somewhat easier now that I know what to look for. The regular ponies still ignore me, but every once in a while I catch a glimpse of different changelings starting at me. Normally I wouldn't be bothered by this but the look in their eyes as they stare at me is, disconcerting to say the least. They're not looking at me with anger, suspicion, or even confusion. It's pure unadulterated lust I see in their eyes, and it's making me nervous.

Luckily the library is within sight and I can lock myself away for a while. I'm minutes away from salvation, I can't wait to finally relax and try to forget about this day.

"Sir Quill, I have a message for you."

JESUS FUCK! I jerked my head around to look at the pegas- no, changeling, that startled me from my thoughts. She was holding out a bound scroll while looking at me with the same lust filled gaze as the rest had been. I slowly took hold of the scroll with my magic, bringing it into my shield. She lowered her hoof but continued to stand there. "Is there something else you needed?" I asked glaring at the disguised changeling.

"I was supposed to give you something else with the letter, however your shield is in the way. We are all under strict orders to leave you unharmed, you have nothing to fear." She said.

I not entirely sure I want whatever it is, hell I'm not even sure I want to read this if it's from who I think it is. Eh fuck it, this day can't get any worse. Unrolling the scroll I saw that there was only five words written on the paper. Five vague words that had several potential meanings.

'See you soon, Sir Quill.'

Wide eyed and distracted I didn't notice the weakening of my shield. Suddenly the fake pegasus broke through and for the second time today I was kissing a changeling. Not gonna lie, I kind of enjoyed it.

Is it weird that I'm not grossed out by everything that's happened today? I'm a little agitated because I'm horny as fuck now, but otherwise I'm fine. Well, mostly fine. There's some lingering feelings of regret mixed with shame when I think about how much I enjoyed making out with Chrysalis. Twice. I'm pretty sure that pegasus/changeling was her. So ya, the spell that was supposed to punish her ended up backfiring on me. Apparently she REALLY enjoyed it, I mean why else would she risk getting caught inside of Canterlot before the wedding?

The part that really scares me, is the guilt. I'm having a difficult time with my feelings at the moment. My past decisions are starting to weigh on my mind. On the one hand I know I shouldn't feel guilty this time, but nevertheless I feel horrible every time I think about Luna. I've already made this mistake once, I'm not going to allow it to happen again. I can't hurt Luna if I stay away from her..

'If I had known I was going to be attending a pity party I'd have brought my own ice cream.'

Great. Just what I needed, another voice in my head telling me what to do. 'Discord,
this really isn't the best time. Could you please go bother somepony else?'

'So he does have manners. I'm pleasantly surprised Graphite. I'll leave you alone if that really is what you want, but I get the feeling that you need some help from someone outside of the situation.'

'You may be right but are you really my best option?'

'Oh heavens no! You should go and talk to Celestia, she's great with this kind of stuff. I would more than likely make things much worse on you.' He laughed.

'Why exactly are you talking to me then?'

'I just thought I'd let you know that I have a gift for you. Once your business with the princesses is taken care on the night of the Gala, come see me.'

That's slightly worrying. 'I will try to remember that.'

'You had better! It's not often that I give real gifts that don't explode!'

-=-=-

This going to be a fun.. A gift from Discord, a meeting with the princesses while in disguise, lusty changelings, and dealing with my past mistakes. Why is all this happening now? Things were just starting to settle down. I was just starting to enjoy my life!

Who am I kidding, I'm loving this! Back on earth it was always the same shit every single day. Wake up, go to work, eat, shit, sleep, and repeat. I was bored as fuck constantly and never had anything fun to do. Not that I had the time for anything fun. I may have been sexually active but I wouldn't exactly call that fun anymore. Too much too often with little emotional connection tends to take away from the experience.

This world, this life I'm living? I love it. I still want to have a way back, I still have a few things to take care of back on earth. I was so desperate for a change in scenery that I didn't really think about everything I was leaving behind. Oh well, it wasn't anything too important anyway. I've managed to find a better life here than I ever had on earth. I can really only think of one thing, or rather one mare that could make my life even better. The only problem is myself. I know I'll end up ruining both our lives just like I did with her.

-=-=- -=-=-

The world around stopped with a snap of Discords talons. He floated lazily down towards the fake unicorn, curiosity and annoyance leading his actions. Once within arms reach he flicked the stallions horn releasing Graphite from the time spell. The stallion stumbled back shaking his head at the sudden change.

"Discord, can you give a little more warning next time? Your aura is blindingly bright." The stallion then quickly glanced around. "One of these days the princesses are going to notice your magical escapades."

"Perhaps in another life they might have, but not in this timeline, but that's beside the point though. You continue to vex me human." Landing on the ground Discord started to circle around Graphite. "I once told you of my friendship with the princesses correct? Don't answer that, I know I did. Another thing I mentioned is that it would be very bad for your health if you hurt them in any way."

"I neve-"

"I'm not finished." With a snap, Graphite's mouth vanished. "I haven't the slightest clue why, but Luna seems to be rather taken with you. If you keep up this emotional 'boo hoo I don't want to hurt her' stuff you'll only hurt her even more in the end." He stopped, all traces of humor gone, to look Graphite in the eyes. "So, you're not going anywhere until I find what I'm looking for."

The world fell away as Graphite Quill fell unconcious.

-=-=-=-

"You know I love you right?"

"You'd better! Otherwise I've been fucking you just for the hell of it, not that I'd complain."

The two humans lay in bed covered in sweat, neither ready to leave each other's side.

"We should probably get up soon, don't wanna be late for work."

"Fuck work man. That cunt calls in every week! I shouldn't have to cover her shifts, they should just fire her ass and hire someone responsible."

"I told you getting Chelsea hired was a bad idea. You should never work with family."

"Alright Mr. Know it all, you were right this time. *sigh* I guess I should start getting dressed." The woman started to get up but was pulled back down atop the man. "AJ stop! I don't want to be lat- oh God please don't stop!"

Boring. Discord thought as he watched the two beings. Wrong memory, correct subject. Let's skip ahead little. The world shifted again changing to another scene in Graphite Quill's life before Equestria. He was sitting on a couch talking on the phone.

"I don't know man, the bar isn't really my scene anymore. I only used to go to find potential dates, but I've got Raya now." Said the human.

"Man come on! It'll be fun, loosen up and live a little dude. She can come too, I've always wanted to see her get drunk anyway!" Another voice said.

"She won't be able to make it, she's working late that day."

Closer but not far enough. Again the world shifted ahead. Discord could feel himself getting closer to the memory that's causing Graphite's turmoil. There! Finally! Human minds are surprisingly chaotic. Discord's magic had found the sought after memories and brought them forth. The scene unfolded to show a broken man crying tears of anger and shame.

"Dude I'm sorry. Had I realized how drunk you were I'd have gotten you out of there sooner." Another human sat next to AJ, a consoling hand on his shoulder. "What are you going to do now?" The man said hesitantly.

"What the fuck do you think? I-I can't lie, not to her. I'm just so fucking pissed at myself! What the fuck was I thinking! She's the best thing that's ever happened to me.."

"Don't blame yourself man, I'm the one that talked you into coming with us. If I hadn't kept ordering drinks none of thi-"

"I wasn't fucking drunk!" AJ said angrily, cutting off his friend.

-=-=- -=-=-

YOU FUCKING PRICK! How many times do I have to tell you? STAY THE FUCK OUT OF MY HEAD! Drawing all the magic he could from the area, Graphite felt his source burning with an unfamiliar magic. He continued drawing, even surpassing his normal limit. I'm too pissed to care what happens to me. This prick needs to die God of chaos or not. Fuck this storyline, I'm done with this bastard!

Discord's spell shattered as Graphite opened his eyes and stood. Discord looked on in astonishment as the stallion effortlessly absorbed his chaotic magic and rose into the air. The way Graphite's eyes glowed oddly reminded him of the elements of harmony. He only had a moment to ponder the similarities before the blast of power hit him.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

I released every bit of power I had into that attack, and he just stood there and took it.. I don't know why I expected anything different. He is a God after all. The only reason I'm still standing is the adrenaline pumping through my veins and the righteous fury of anger. He took it too far this time.

"Huh." Discord said simply. He then snapped his talons and the streets of Canterlot returned to normal. Ponies continuing on with their lives unaware of the conflict that just took place. Lucky bastards.

Just like that I was left alone to my anger. Deciding to worry about Discord later, I started to draw enough magic for one final feat of magic for the day. Teleportation. Exhausted both physically and mentally I barely noticed the spell take effect, the last thing I saw was my bed before I passed out.

-=-=- -=-=-

Chaos reigns in the dimension Discord calls home. It is a physical embodiment of his mind from the past, present, and future. For the first time in a thousand years the realm was silent, no orchestral, heavy metal, or even Benny Hill music being played on shuffle. Discord sat contemplating his most recent project while staring at the single drop of his own blood that had fallen from his nose after the humans minor chaos infused attack. He spoke only three words. "That's mildly disconcerting." Before shrugging and returning to his stony 'prison' in Canterlot.

The Gala Is Near!

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

Worst feeling ever. Never, I repeat, NEVER use all your magic in one spell. Imagine the hangover you'd have if you were able to drink an entire liquor store in one night. I'm not entirely sure if I'm even still alive at this point, I haven't moved all day. Cara, my little guardian angel, has been keeping me company and watching over me since I appeared in our room last night. She was terrified at first because I wouldn't wake up and had my boss check to see if I was still alive. According to Mrs. Binding I'm very lucky to be alive. After I finally woke up this morning she told me that I had nearly destroyed my horn with the amount of magic I forced through it, hence the gargantuan migraine.

So far nopony knows about what happened with me and the changelings and I'd prefer to keep quiet about it. No sense in worrying them with past events, I'm back and apparently safe from the changelings for now. I will have to tell them some details about why I nearly died but that can wait for a few days. I'm too damn tired to think of an excuse right now and I don't think I should take a chance at pissing Discord off by telling ponies that he's no longer trapped in stone.

If I wasn't dealing with the worst headache in the world right now I'd be enjoying this lazy day. Cara is asleep curled up next to me, she'd had a rough night keeping watch over me after Mrs. Binding told her what was wrong with me. Thinking back on my actions I realized that it probably wasn't a good idea drawing in Discord's magic like I did. For the moment I don't feel any different from before aside from the headache, but until my magic returns I won't know for sure. For now though I'm just going to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.

*Knock* *Knock* "Graphite, are you awake?"

'God damn it.' Never a moments peace these days. "Yeah, what's up?" I called towards the door.

The door opened just enough for my boss to stick her head in with a look of nervousness on her face. "Princess Luna is here to see you if you're feeling up to it." She glanced back Into the hallway before speaking more quietly. "She seems rather upset about something, and she says it's urgent that she speaks with you. It took all the confidence I had to ask her to wait so I could see if you were awake." She fidgeted nervously while waiting for a response.

It's rather unlike her to act this way even around the princesses. She's starting to make me a little nervous.. "I guess I shouldn't keep her waiting. Just ask her to try not to make too much noise, Cara's finally asleep."

With a nod Page Binding silently backed out and closed the door.

-=-=- -=-=-

Unbeknownst to the general public and nobles of Canterlot, the castle was on high alert. Guards were posted at every doorway and every hallway intersection. Celestia had remained at the castle while Luna left to investigate the suspiciously familiar magic ambient that they both felt lingering through the city. Neither felt the initial shockwave but they both felt the residual effects. Luna however sensed something else. She could sense Graphite Quill's distinct magic interlaced with the chaotic magic lingering in the air.

She had made her way to Graphite's residence to clear the air and see what happened. She told Celestia very little about her findings, only that she was going to check the city for any trouble. She sat waiting at the front desk as the librarian checked on Graphite. She was more worried than ever upon hearing of him being bedridden especially since his disappearance the previous day. She was considering checking on him herself when the librarian returned.

"He's awake but Cara is asleep. She had a rough night so please try not to wake her."

Luna nodded and followed the old mare up the stairs to Graphite's room. She silently entered through the door to see Sir Quill laying next to his sleeping adopted daughter. He looked exhausted and in pain but he still smiled when he saw her. His smile helped to alleviate her worries by a small amount but she still had allot of questions for him.

"So," he said quietly. "what's up with you? You look stressed Lulu." His smile never wavered.

Luna fought the blush she felt arising at his use of her nickname. "I am happy to see that you are still well enough to flirt Sir Quill." She said as she cast a scanning spell on Graphite. Her eyes shot wide as she felt how damaged his magical reserves were. She felt tears forming as she realized how close he had come to dying from mana depletion. "Graphite what happened to you!?" She asked in a surprised whisper. "Are you okay?"

He shrugged. "I've been better, but It's nothing I can't handle."

Just as she was starting to berate him for his flippant attitude toward his condition she remembered the lingering magic of the night before. "I hope you are correct Sir Quill. I hope you will forgive me for asking this, but it is my duty to investigate possible dangers to my subjects." She paused to take a deep breath before questioning her friend. "Are you responsible for the chaos magic that my sister and I have detected throughout the city?"

'shit! They knew about that? Damnit Discord I told you they'd sense your magic eventually. Then again Luna is asking me if I'm responsible so she must've sensed my magic as well.' Graphite thought. A few moments of silence later he replied. "Yes, that was me."

Luna's blood ran cold as she thought about what this could mean for her friend. Could he be working to free Discord? Or is he just dabbling in magic he doesn't understand? "Sir Quill chaos magic is highly prohibited! Ponies lost the ability to control chaos magic eons ago, long before my banishment. How are you even able to harness such power?"

The human turned unicorn simply shrugged before looking down in mock shame. "Since I started learning magic I've found it to be very easy. No matter the spell I've always been able to cast it easily, and I was content with that at first." He then looked over to his adopted griffon daughter and smiled a sad smile. "Then she came into my life. I love Cara more than anything and I'll do anything to keep her safe. I'm a powerful spell caster but there will always someone stronger." He then turned a determined look to Luna. "I've been researching different forms of magic that most ponies wouldn't be able to counter. Something strange is going on in Canterlot, Celestia told me of the changelings. They're nearly impossible to detect with normal magic so I thought to try something else."

"And the chaos magic? How did you cast it? It shouldn't be possible." Luna questioned.

"I'll admit I had some help." Graphite said. He then noticed Luna's look of trepidation and realized that he should explain more. "You've heard of poison joke right?"

Luna cast a look of pained suspicion. "I have indeed heard of that vile plant."

He continued. "I found out that the plant generates a small amount of chaotic energy which fuels its effects. After some tests I was able to absorb the magic from them. It was more powerful than any magic I've ever felt."

"Sir Quill. You say you absorbed the magic from the plant?" No longer was Graphite talking to his friend, he was talking to the princess of the night trying to protect her subjects.

Slight panic arose In Graphite Quill's mind before he spoke. "Yes, I was away from Canterlot for most of yesterday searching for it in the forest."

"Then why exactly is there lingering chaos in the city if you were in the forest?"

Graphite thought for a moment trying to think of a believable excuse. Most of his story was just that, a story. "At first everything was fine, so I tested a few small spells. They were far more powerful than anything I had ever cast in the past but otherwise I saw no ill effects from the absorbed magic. It was starting to get late so I decided to really test the magic by teleporting back to Canterlot. I thought it was working just fine until the spell started to overwhelm me. Everything after that is a blur. I woke up here this morning feeling like shit and unable to cast."

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

I hate myself. I lied to the mare I love just to save my own ass from Discord's wrath. I just said the L word didn't I.. I guess I kinda knew from the start that I'd fall for her but I never thought we'd be this close so quickly. I mean for fucks sake she believed every word I said and even promised to smooth things out with Celestia about the whole ordeal. She thinks I just overloaded the spell and it caused me to black out from mana burn.

I'm trash. She deserves better than me and my bull shit. After my meeting with the princesses as the 'other' me at the Gala, I'm leaving Canterlot.

I'm honestly not sure where we should go but I have to think about Cara. Now that I've calmed down after my run in with Discord I'm still going to try my best to preserve the storyline. However some things are starting to sound a little off, some information isn't quite lining up with my knowledge of the show. Hopefully I'm just overthinking things or remembering wrong. I've got enough of my own crap to worry about already, I don't need a surprise attack from some unknown enemy that wasn't on the show.

Maybe we could go to Baltimare? It would make sense, Mrs. Binding and the princesses think that's where I used to live before Canterlot. I'll have to check the train schedule and see if it runs that far. Man telling Luna is going to suck, I'm gonna miss her...

"Dad? You okay?" Cara's sudden question brought me back from my thoughts. How long have I been thinking about this? I thought she was still asleep...

"I'm fine hun just lost in thought. Did you need something?" I asked.

She shook her head and smirked. "No, I only asked because you had that funny look on your face again."

"Funny look?" I questioned. Is she messing with me or do I really make faces when I'm thinking?

"Yeah! That's the one!" She said excitedly. "So what were you thinking about that was causing that grumpy face?"

Damn it, I've got an internal monologue face. "Well I've just been thinking about taking a little trip to Baltimare and staying for a while after the Gala. It'd be a nice break from the nobility around here."

"Isn't that the city next to the ocean that we flew over on our way back from the Griffon Kingdom? Oh and that's also where you lived before Canterlot right?" She asked.

"Yes and yes." I raised an eyebrow. "Did Mrs. Binding tell you that?"

"Yep, she told me when she was helping me memorize the map of Equestria."

"Wait, you memorized the entire map of Equestria?" I was astonished. I knew she was a smart kid but damn.

"Yep. She said I should always know how to get home if I'm lost. Plus it will help me later in life when I become a mail carrier!" She said excitedly.

Author's Note

The Gala is approaching and so to is the end of the Canterlot arc of this story. As some of you may know, I'm in a bit of a rut right now in life and I'm struggling to find the motivation needed to continue this story. Don't take that the wrong way though, I am going to finish this story at some point. I refuse to add this story to the rotting pile of stories left without the closure of an ending. However speaking of rotting, I had a moment of inspiration for a (hopefully) short story while listening to some audiobooks about zombies. I hope to get the next chapter of Easy Access out some time in the near future, but after that I'm taking a short break for the new story. Once I purge my mind of this story and I get some new ideas flowing, I should be able to return with a fresh mind to continue Sir Quill's journey. Ill have more info on the new story later. Peace fellow pones.

The Gala Is Here!

Author's Note

I'd like to start by saying that the Gala in my story will be fairly bland. I don't have the time nor patience to make it some grand event and aside from that there a million fanfics out there that include a very detailed description of what the Gala is all about. I'm just trying to finish this arc and start on another story for a little while, but that doesn't mean this is the end of Sir Quill's journey. Anyways, aside from the fact that it's been forever since I've posted a new chapter, I hope y'all enjoy! {T}

The Gala Is Here!

The time has come at last. I'm both excited and terrified of what's going to happen at the Gala with the princesses. I've got allot to explain, some requests to make, and at some point I'll have to get Luna alone so we can talk. There's allot of heavy shit going down at the Gala tonight and it's not going to be all rainbows and unicorns like it was in the show. Perhaps that wasn't the best turn of phrase to use..

Anyways I'm all dressed up, Cara is all dressed up, and we're on our way to the Gala. The streets of Canterlot are a cluster fuck of noble ponies all dressed up and walking into walls because their noses are so stuck up in the air. Strangely enough there seems to be less changelings around than normal which is setting off all kinds of warnings in my head. They're not supposed to attack for a while now but I'm still a bit nervous about tonight. Magic, princesses, changelings, and a portal to another world. What the fuck happened to my life?

"Dad? What's wrong?" Cara's voice brought me back from my thoughts.

"I'm just a little nervous about tonight. You know how I feel about large crowds." I said in response while pulling her into a half hug.

She giggled then poked my chest. "Are you sure it's the crowd? Ooor could it be because Luna asked you to dance with her?"

I snorted a laugh. "Alright ya little brat, don't make me tickle you in front of everyone here."

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

"It is time sister, is everything taken care of?" Luna asked anxiously while watching ponies filter into the castle.

"Yes, I believe we've taken all the precautions we can without having more information about our special guest. Let's hope this doesn't backfire on us." Celestia said with a hint of worry.

"Have the element bearers been briefed on the situation?"

"Yes, Twilight Sparkle and the others are already in possession of the elements. While a bit more nervous than before, they'll all be going about their own business by my request. Should things take a turn for the worst, they'll be watching for my signal to use the elements." She let out a small sigh. "I just hope we're being overly cautious. I hope we make a friend tonight but I'm worried that we might be inviting an enemy into our home."

Luna's look hardened as she looked down in remembering their conversation with the being. "Dear sister this creature essentially stated that it was more powerful than armies of its own kind. It even admitted to knowing the future of pony kind and of Equestria itself! We know nothing of this creature other than what it has told us so we have every right to be cautious!"

"I know Lulu, I know. We will have answers soon enough I suppose, the Grand Galloping Gala has officially begun." Celestia said noticing the growing crowd waiting to be greeted by their princesses.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

"Hey, bitch. Mind your own damned business." I said to some random noble in an ugly ass dress. She walked off in a huff, probably to go throw a tantrum somewhere private.

"Dad be nice, she wasn't hurting anyone."

"Maybe not but her staring and scowling was pissing me off."

Cara shrugged. "Some ponies don't like griffons, she's not the first or the last to stare at me. Just ignore them like I do."

"Still don't like it when people are mean to my baby girl."

"Dad!" She whined. "I'm not a baby! I can handle myself now, I'm not going to fall apart just because somepony doesn't like me!"

I sighed at that. She's right, she's come a long way since I first adopted her and sometimes I forget that. "Sorry kid, I know. I may not be your real father but I still feel like I need to protect you no matter what."

"A common ailment among all parents and guardians I believe." A masculine voice said beside us. "Sir Quill and miss Cara I presume?"

I turned to see Shining Armor standing tall in his polished golden armor. He went to the Gala? I figured he'd be off with Cadence considering neither were in the Gala episode. Maybe he was a background pony at some point and I just never saw him...

"That's us. To what do we owe the pleasure, captain?" I responded.

Why is he glaring at me?

"Your presence is required by the princesses right away. Follow me." Without warning he abruptly turned and started walking towards the grand staircase to the throne room. Cara and I exchanged looks and shrugs as we began to follow the captain.

We made it through the crowd with ease, with him in the lead everyone moved out of the way of the armored stallion. Nopony wanted to impede with the business of the captain of the royal guard and I don't blame them, he has a commanding presence. We arrived at the doors and after a nod from Shining the two guards allowed us to enter. Upon looking around the room I noticed the large amount of guards.

"Dad, who is that?" A confused Cara asked while pointing at the third alicorn in the room that I hadn't noticed yet. This might be a bit more complicated than I originally thought. Princess Cadence is here to.

Before I could answer her Celestia greeted us and introduced us to everyone. We were met with mixed results from what I could tell. Luna was happy to see us, of course, and Cadence seemed amiable but Shining Armor and his guards seemed hell bent on ignoring me.

Princess Cadance's amiable smile slowly changed to an excited grin as she glanced back and forth between me and Luna. She saw me watching her and somehow her smile grew even bigger with a hint of mischief. Deciding to avoid whatever conversation she was about to start I spoke. "So, what's going on? Why the impromptu meeting in the middle of the Gala?"

Any previous trace of smiles left the room and even Luna looked a little annoyed.

Clearing her throat Celestia spoke up. "I've asked you to be here because we may need your help Sir Quill. In just the few months that we've know each other you've become a very close friend to both my sister and I, and that is why we wanted to warn you."

"I still don't think you should divulge such information to some noble."

"Shining I am well aware of your preference for discretion but Graphite and his daughter mean a great deal to me. I would prefer that he be aware of the problem so that he may be better prepared." Luna spoke up.

"Aware or not, what's some noble unicorn civilian going to do against this thing?!" Shining said indignantly.

Before Luna could retort Celestia interrupted. "Captain Armor enough. Sir Quill, while untrained, is likely far more powerful than any of your own troops in terms of magical proficiency." Shining looked offended but stayed silent. 'Ha! Dickhead.' I thought.

"Now back to the original point, later tonight a very important and possibly dangerous guest will arrive." She then proceeded to tell me about the 'being' from another word and how dangerous he could be. Little did they know that they were telling that very same being their plans. They should really be more careful about these things, I mean seriously they are so fucking lucky I'm not evil. It's a good thing all the villains that they're going to face are so damn stupid.

-=-=- 2 hours later -=-=-

Cara yawned as she sat next to me watching the ponies dance. Meanwhile I sat thinking about when I should make the change and confront the princesses. They haven't tried to contact me through magic yet so I guess they're just waiting for me to choose when to show myself. Should I even do this? The only reason I had planned on going through with this was so they might give the portal back. Lets say that they do give it back, what then? What about Cara? Could she maybe come through with me? Would she even want to...

'Speaking of Cara.' I thought to myself. Looking at her with my magic sight I saw the dim glow of my shielding spells. It's been a while since I last charged them up and since I'm not entirely sure what's going to happen later I started to charge the spells until they were too bright to look at with my magic sight spell.

"Impressive shield work. I'm starting to understand why the princesses put so much faith in you." Said the voice of Shining Armor. "However don't assume that that means that I trust you."

'It's probably better that you don't.' I thought. 'Not that I'm going to do something bad, mainly just lie allot.'

"I don't expect you to." I said "Isn't it your job to question the legitimacy of any and all those that go near the princesses?"

A bit taken aback he said, "I wouldn't put it that way, but you're not wrong." He chuckled. "Anyways I'm here to escort lady Cara to Princess Celestia because you have a promise to keep." He said gesturing towards the dance floor.

I didn't have to look to know what, or rather who he was gesturing at, but I did anyway. Luna stood among the ponies off to the side of those who were already mid dance. Thankfully it seems that Pinkie Pie hasn't made her appearance yet so I guess now would be the best time to do this. I'm honestly a little more nervous about this now that I'm looking at her in her beautiful gown. I know I should keep my distance but I can't deny what I'm feeling or the ramifications should things go badly with the meeting and I somehow get caught.. As far as I'm aware they plan to keep the meeting with the 'being', a.k.a the other me, civil unless circumstances dictate otherwise. However now isn't the time for such thoughts, I have a date to dance with.

-=-=-

That went surprisingly well considering my lack of dancing experience as a pony. I livened it up a bit with some more human-like moves that I knew, and that seemed to make us an even bigger center of attention. As if the rumors weren't already spreading, our little show of enjoyment and admiration towards each other caused quite a ruckus. I can already hear the new rumors spreading throughout the crowd as we sat taking a break after the dance. However I couldn't care less, I had a beautiful mare at my side that I really cared for. However there is one question that's been nagging at me for some time now. I decided to ask since we had essentially been sitting quietly for a few minutes now.

"What caused you to ask me to dance? The way you went about it was kinda out of nowhere if I'm honest." I asked Luna. She had essentially walked up to me, in front of several nobles and her sister, and asked me to dance with her at the Gala. Her face was practically glowing red with embarrassment the entire time but she held her head high and waited for my answer. I obviously said yes.

Luna apparently caught off guard by my question nearly dropped her drink before stammering out an answer. "W-well tia suggested the idea, a-and I had said no at first. I didn't want to push the idea on you, and I hoped that you would ask me first." She said shifting nervously beside me.

"What changed your mind?"

Her embarrassment was replaced with a somber smile. "Tia reminded me of who and what exactly I am. I am Princess Luna, an immortal alicorn. I believe her exact words were, 'The average life span of a pony is ephemeral compared to us Lulu. You shouldn't waste the time you could be spending with those you care about, because in the blink of an eye they could be gone forever.' Sorrowful words, but more true than I'd like to admit." After a moment of silence a she visibly brightened and started to blush again. "Her words allowed me to realize that I'd regret missing out on you, Graphite."

My heart thundered in my chest, I understood what she meant. To say that I'm surprised would be a lie, I saw the signs and I knew where this was headed. She's right. I may not be immortal but things can change in the blink of an eye and I for one have enough regrets in my life as it is. Everything around us seemed to disappear as we leaned towards each other. Forcing back the memories and regrets of my past, I decided to throw caution to the wind just this one time.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Celestia watched as her sister practically skipped across the room towards her. She thought she knew what had happened but she'd need to talk to Luna about it later to confirm her suspicions. For now though she had other things to attend to that were more important to Equestria as a whole. After sending Cara away with Sir Quill she had sent word to the elements, along with Princess Cadance and Captain Shining Armor, asking them to meet with her. The evening was drawing to a close and the time for the Gala was almost up, and the being had yet to show up. Celestia planned to discuss how to move forward should the being not make an appearance. She was considering trying to contact him through magic when her thoughts were interrupted by an approaching guard.

The guard bowed and quietly said, "He's here, your majesty."

Celestia froze, the time had finally come. Standing up straight she applied her usual stoic tone. "Has he complied with our conditions for entry?"

"The inhibitor ring was accepted without complications and locked in place."

Celestia nodded, 'So far so good.' She thought. "Bring him in." The guard bowed again and left just in time for the other two princesses, Captain Armor, and the elements to arrive. The others seemed to noticed the guard and the look on Celestia's face, and realized what was going on. Everypony was silent as they waited staring at the doors to the main hall. Luna had lost her previous jubilation and now stood tall with a weary look on her face. The Captain showed no emotion, and Cadence looked slightly scared. Even the normally energetic element of laughter stood stock still waiting for the inevitable entrance of the being. The Gala continued around them, ponies dancing and feasting without realizing the tension between the most powerful ponies in the room.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

Did you know hooves could sweat like palms? I didn't until now. Why did I think this was a good idea again? Do I really need to go back to earth and all that bull shit? Unfortunately for me however it's too late to back out, I've already shifted forms into my red and white fake alicorn self and put on the inhibitor ring that the guards gave me. I nearly laughed out loud when they saw me walking towards them wings spread and horn glowing. Seemed like they couldn't decide if they were supposed to bow or not so they were half kneeling when they asked me what business I had at the castle. They nearly shat brick when I told them that I was the alien that their princesses were waiting for. Once one of the guards managed to pull himself back together he started fumbling with the inhibitor ring attached to his armor. I helped him out by levitating it from him and securing it to my horn. I felt the slightly familiar tingle of my magic being drawn in and dissipated by the ring. I wonder if the ring was technological or magical in nature?

Not long after one the guards left to alert the princesses he was back with reinforcements. "I'll escort you to the princesses. Please try not to disturb the other guests."

I nodded and started to follow behind him as the rest of the guards surrounded me. I trusted the princesses enough to not worry about being surrounded, though I could easily destroy the ring and escape at any point in time if I needed to. This late in the Gala things were already starting to calm down so it was fairly obvious to the guests that something was going on when a group of guards entered the room in formation. It was slow at first but word was spreading quickly and ponies were starting to stare. Annoyed I flexed my back muscles which inadvertently shifted my wings enough for somepony to notice. At first I only heard mumbling and a few gasps but eventually it turned to a full fledged gossip session between the nobles close enough to see me. As short as the walk was it felt as though it had taken hours under the scrutiny of so many ponies. As distracted as I was by all the chatter I almost ran into the guard when he suddenly stopped.

Finally looking at the princesses I was met with an almost comical sight. Celestia and Luna seemed equally stunned by my appearance. Shining now stood between me and the rest of the group and directly in front of the surprised looking Cadence. Twilight looked like she was about to blow a gasket and the rest of the elements stood slack jawed except for Pinkie Pie who was smiling. Creepy much?

Deciding that laughing at them would make the wrong first impression, I calmly broke the silence. "Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadance." I started while holding the bow until after I spoke each name. "It's good to finally meet you face to face. I hope my arrival hasn't caused any issues." I said gesturing towards the silent Gala guests.

Celestia came out of her stupor and spoke to the gathered crowd. "The time for the Grand Galloping Gala is at an end. Thank you all so much for coming to this years event, please take care on your way home." She then looked to the guards. "Four of you go and start ushering the rest of our guests out. Everyone else," she said pointedly looking at me. "please follow me to the dining room."

-=-=-

We all sat quietly around the dining table watching each other, unsure of how to proceed. Nopony seemed to know quite where to start the discussion so I sat quietly and waited for something to happen. I however didn't have long to wait because Twilight interrupted the silence.

"Are you really an alicorn?" She asked, seemingly breaking everyone out of their staring.

Again, I hate lying unless it's absolutely necessary. Currently lying would be counterproductive and pointless, so I might as well tell the truth to hopefully earn their trust. Unless they ask what I've been doing for the past few months, then I might have to bend the truth.

"No. In the time I learned to use this worlds magic I somewhat accidentally grew these wings with a spell. However they're basically useless as I have no pegasus magic to allow them to work correctly." I replied while spreading and closing my wings.

Having broken the proverbial ice, the princesses looked calmer and Twilight started to rant about the impossibility of my statement but was ultimately cut off by a scowling Luna. "When we last spoke you mentioned that you knew of ponykind and its future and yet you accidentally created a portal here? This seems far too coincidental for my liking."

"That's something I cannot explain. Where I'm from magic does not exist and until I showed up here, I thought your kind was fictional. To save us all some time I'll just say that your world and everything that happens in it are just a story to my kind. I doubt anyone back home even knows you all actually exist." I explained with a sigh. "The fact that I'm here now is supposed to be impossible, at least for my kind anyways. My best guess is that something or someone on this side formed that portal."

There was a moment of silence before Celestia spoke up. "If that is true then why say that 'you' accidentally created the portal when we spoke of it before?"

With a chuckle I explained exactly what happened when I first started the portal and what it was supposed to be originally. Questions were asked and answered until I had basically told the entire story of what happened until I woke up on this side of the portal. There was some arguments about my honesty from Luna but Applejack settled that with her lie detecting skills. However I did leave out a few details like the thief's pony name and my coloration. Once it was clear that I didn't come here on purpose everypony seemed to visibly calm down, even Luna.

"Why wait so long to tell us this information? Had you come to us from the beginning you'd likely be back home already." Celestia asked.

"Honestly? I was bored." I laughed at the looks of confusion. "I didn't really want to leave this world yet and I figured I had plenty of time to get to the mirror. I guess I got distracted and didn't really think about the possibility of anyone finding it. Until, of course, the day that I found it was missing."

Celestia nodded and leaned back turning to look at Luna while smiling. "Still think he's evil Luna?"

Luna grimaced at her sister before looking at me. "I suppose my fears were unwarranted. I am still unsure about his involvement in that prophecy you spoke of."

This peaked my interest, but before I could ask about it Twilight spoke up for the first time in a while. "Princess Celestia, what prophecy?"

"'He will arrive from another plane of existence and with his arrival balance will be restored as the moon princess rises once again. Succeeding his arrival many great evils will threaten the land but you will always overcome each obstacle. Trust in my words for they are true, but be warned each evil will be more powerful than the last. You must have faith.'" Celestia cited from memory. "These words were spoken by the voice of Starswirl The Bearded, through the elements, just over one thousand years ago immediately after Luna's banishment. I don't know what part you played in Luna's return, but I thank you."

All but the three princesses sat in stunned silence for a full minute before Twilight jumped up to start fangirling over Starswirl. I was stuck on the prophecy part, could it really be about me? For that matter, what's this bull shit about me playing a part in Luna's return? I literally sat around in the library and did nothing that day. This could be problematic. Have I already affected the timeline? How could I have if this prophecy was told a thousand years before I got here? "Princess I nev-" Just as I had started to deny playing any role in Luna's return the doors to the dining room blasted open sending a powerful wave of magic throughout the room. I felt the familiar crawling sensation of changeling magic trying to eat away at my shields as a group of changeling strode into the room.

Unaffected by the spell I first turned to see how the others fared from the blast and my blood ran cold at the sight of the princesses and the mane six scattered around the room frozen in place where they had fallen. Shining still stood having shielded himself in time for the blast but even he was unmoving. I felt the strange magic absorb into my shields strengthening it against more attacks. Call me overly cautious if you want but I always keep quiet a few spells cast on myself and Cara that mostly consists of different shields. The main one I am relying on now absorbs magic and strengthens itself against magic of the same type, however it is weak to physical strikes. I had a shield that blocks physical attacks but that was shattered by the initial blast.

"Well aren't you a strong little unicorn!" A voice called out with a laugh.

"Queen Chrysalis." I said, recognizing the voice. I looked up to see the queen of the changelings standing in the doorway surrounded by her drones and several guards with glowing eyes. She had bewitched the guards... "May I ask why you have decided to attack tonight? Shouldn't you be preparing for 'your' wedding?" I asked while shooting a glance at Cadence.

She seemed mildly surprised by my foresight but chose to ignore it. "There's still time for that later, I'm after something else right now. Conquering Equestria can wait." She said as she started walking towards me with her eyes stared into mine. "This may be arrogant of me but this was far too easy for my liking. I had honestly expected a fight, not this!" She said gesturing towards the paralyzed princesses.

"It is a little underwhelming, I'll give you that. However you seem to be forgetting something important." I said while spreading my wings and taking up a defensive stance. "I still stand while the rest have fallen. This toy," I pointed to the ring on my horn. "means nothing to me. It can't stop me and neither can you." With a quick release of my magic I shattered the ring allowing my magic to irradiate around the room. From what I've seen of this world so far, I can out magic anyone so long as they aren't monstrously overpowered. My own spells can absorb and reflect almost anything without any real issues, so in theory, I should be able to handle this.

A vile smug grin split Chrysalis' face as she stomped her front hoof three times. Behind her movement caught my eye and I saw myself walking into the room dragging an unconscious Cara along in a green aura. The changeling posing as the other me shifting back to its original form.

"Change your look however you like Graphite Quill, I'll always find you."

-=-=- -=-=-

Luna lay stunned by the surprise attack spell and cursing herself for her inability to counter the spell. The unfamiliar magic had trapped her in her own body, forcing her magic down and out of her reach. Worry and doubt crept into her mind, had the creature waited for her to relax before initiating the attack? Taking in her surroundings she saw the creature, or rather the human, still standing strong where he had been before, except he now faced the destroyed doors and the beings standing there. Her doubt grew even more once he greeted the tall changeling by its title and name. Was he in league with the changelings? She felt angry as they spoke of the simplicity of their victory, then horrified when the human blasted apart the nullification ring. Only one with potent magic could even come close to destroying a ring of that quality, and yet he had done so effortlessly.

She hadn't payed much attention to what they said until a familiar young white Griffon was brought into the room by her friend Graphite Quill. She wanted to scream, tell him to run for his life! Until Graphite's form dissolved in flame transforming into another changeling. 'If Cara is here, then where is the real Graphite?' She thought as she felt her heart drop. The changeling queen smiled and spoke while the human froze staring. Then to her horror and disbelief her question was answered by the changeling queen and the humans response. If she weren't already down and paralyzed she'd have dropped to the floor crying from the sting if deceit. Her heart broke as she realized Graphite Quill was fake all along. She never even noticed the castle shaking around her.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

Anger, pure hatred, and contempt bled from my very soul. Fuck the storyline and fuck this impotent overgrown fly! I could feel my magic lashing out in reaction to my emotions, the air around starting to heat and cool erratically. It took everything I had to keep myself from bringing down the castle on top of Chrysalis. I knew Cara was fine and just in a magically induced sleep. However the idea of someone using her against me added to the fact that she outed me as Graphite Quill in front of the princesses infuriated me. I glared at Chrysalis, reaching out attempting to dispel the changeling magic around Cara only to see the green aura seep further into her. I won't risk any further attempts, they have the advantage for now. Gathering control over my magic I bit back my anger and relaxed my stance.

"I had wondered where she was. I should have known better to be honest, you are the queen of disguises after all." My resigned sigh echoed in the silence of the room. "What do you want Chrysalis?" I asked in defeat.

Que stereotypical evil Disney queen laughter. "Muhahaha! Are you truly this easy to beat?! It's amazing how long you ponies continue to rule while being so weak!"

"Can we skip past the gloating and get the the part where you do what you came here to do?" I said irritably.

A slight look of annoyance crossed her face before returning to a look of amusement. "Very well Sir Quill, lower your defenses and come closer."

"What of the princesses?" I asked.

"I'm feeling generous today, they're safe for now. I'll be back to take my place as Queen of Equestria later!"

I did as I was told and lowered my shields while casting some other more discreet spells. Hopefully I can get the danger away from the princesses before she decides to be smart and take over the throne right now. Dumbass villains always fail because of stuff like this. Just because it was easy to take them down today, while they were distracted might I add, doesn't mean it will always be this easy. Regardless I'm thankful that she's so full of herself, it makes her complacent. Complacency means death in war, and that is exactly what she started when she kidnapped Cara.

I walked up to Chrysalis in resignation, knowing what was going to happen next. As I looked into her eyes everything else faded from existence until all I saw was her, and all I felt was the overwhelming urge to submit to her every command.

Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.1

"I swear I saw it! You have to believe me Honeydew!" The mare exclaimed. "I saw a Male alicorn walking through the sky. Walking!"

"Timber one of these days something bad is going to happen and nopony will believe you. You always say that you've seen something weird but never have any proof. If you saw anything at all it was likely just a pegasus stallion trying to imitate that one Wonderbolts trick where they move their wings so fast that-"

"I KNOW WHAT I SAW! His wings were folded against his side, there's no way he was doing the lunar walk!"

The disguised Princess Luna ignored the rest of the conversation as she continued to search for signs of changeling magic around Baltimare. She had spent the better part of three months devoting all her time to the search and imprisonment of changelings all over Equestria. There had been a massive decrease in population after the events of the Gala. Nearly 40% of Canterlot's inhabitants vanished overnight and reports were flooding in telling of several similar events happening across Equestria. The changelings were weakening their food before going in for the kill. An attack was eminent and the Princesses knew it.

Gathering her thoughts Luna returned to the palace in Canterlot with a flash of magic. She had been to Baltimare more often than any other city since the disappearance of her friend Graphite. She now knew of his true origins being from another world but she still had hoped she would find him there hiding from the changelings. Luna had seen enough of Graphite's magic to know he wouldn't let himself stay captive for long, and she had faith that she would see him again. After the Gala she spent the first month in anger at his betrayal of her trust and at herself for falling for him. Celestia had spent the entire time trying to calm her anger, it scared her to see her sister acting this way again and she didn't want to lose her sister after just having her returned.

Eventually something Celestia said struck a cord with Luna. She had said, "You can deny the truth but you cannot defeat it. Willfully turning aside from the truth is treason to one's self. You love him! There is magic in forgiveness Luna. The sooner you realize this, the faster you may heal from the pain of losing someone so dear to you. No matter who or what he is, he cares for you Lulu. He's still out there, and I know him well enough to know that he hasn't given up hope. So please don't lose hope in him."

Princess Luna, Ruler of the Night, cried herself to sleep that night after finally coming to terms with the realization that the enemy held the life of the one she loved in their hooves.

-=-=-=-=- Cara -=-=-=-=-

"Andy, do we really have to move again?" I asked even though I knew the answer. This isn't the first time we've had to pack up and disappear since dad left us.

"They've been getting too close for comfort, and I don't want another incident like what happened in Calcaria. your father isn't here to save us this time." Andraste replied while getting into his armor. It looked really cool but always scared ponies with all it's sharp spines. Then again it could be the fact that there's a rather large armored griffon roaming around Equestria. Dad had somehow managed to get word to my old friend Andy back in the griffon kingdom asking him for help. Apparently once he found out I was in trouble he escaped that turd Brennus and made his way to Equestria to help dad get me away from the bug ponies. We got away but they captured dad again, but he's a resourceful pony and has occasionally escaped to help us when Brennus's hired help caught up to us. Once we were safe he always let himself be captured by the changelings again..

"Why does dad keep leaving us to go with the bugs?" I asked Andraste.

He sagged a bit in his armor and let out a sad sounding sigh. "The changeling are proving to be far more resilient and determined than your father thought they would be. They've know where we are since I helped get you away from them. They don't care enough to actually capture us but them knowing where you are is enough for your father to willingly comply with them." Glancing around the room of the inn he stood straight and gestured towards the door. "Come on, we must leave this place. Your father will be fine, I'm sure he's making his captors regret every second of his forced imprisonment."

'Give them hell dad.' I thought using dad's word for Tartarus. He says such weird things sometimes.

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

"Crux northern wall, Manta south wall, and Thesa east wall. We move in and clear as we go, no prisoners." I said pointing at the map on the table.

"That leaves you with the west wall closest to the barracks and armory. Where all the loot is." Said Thesa indignantly. "Can we get a new GM, this one cheats!" The changeling said with her arms crossed and a pout on her muzzle.

With a sigh Crux shook his head. "Tes none of the rest of us understand this game well enough to call the shots. He does. Either learn the game or deal with it."

"At least you guys don't have to clear the pig sty.." Manta said in reservation.

I just laughed at the three and continued the game of Ogres and Oubliettes. I'd rarely played D&D back on Earth but I knew enough to figure out how this worlds version was played. These three changelings have actually made my stay in the hive pretty fun. These three are basically Changeling versions of some of the element bearers, more specifically Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Twilight. At least personality wise. Manta is shy and quiet just like Fluttershy, but not as cute. Crux is smart, likes to learn, and a total egghead like Twilight. Then there's Thesa. Thesa is.. Well she's different. I'm not the biggest fan of Rainbow Dash's personality, her brash nature annoys me and her boasting is infuriating. Apparently for me there's a fine line between annoying and hot. Tes is brash and like's to boast but she has every right to. She is very calculative, she knows what she can and can't do and is a lot smarted than she lets on. I've learned not to argue when she starts boasting about things she can do because 99% of the time she's not lying or overcompensating. Plus she can be assertive, which is hot.

"You're lusting at me again Graph. My offer still stands!"

"Damn changelings." I muttered.

Author's Note

Really short I know but this is just to prove that I'm actually trying to pick this back up. It's surprisingly difficult for me to write when I'm actually happy in life, as weird as that is. I just switched to a different position at work so now I'm working 12 hours a day 3-4 days a week so i'll have even more free time with the extra days off. Anyways I hope you enjoyed this small glimpse of the second arc, I'll work on getting more out whenever I can. Peace fellow pones! {T}

Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.2

Author's Note

This one jumps around allot POV wise so just a reminder: This --> -=-=- -=-=- with nothing in the middle means 3rd person POV, but if there's a name in the middle like this --> -=-=- Bob -=-=- then it means that it's that character's POV. Once I get past this 3 part section there should be less POV shifts, or at least they'll be more spread out. This section with the changelings was NOT in the original planned story progression so I'm still trying to figure some stuff out and where exactly I'm taking certain aspects of this portion of the story. Anyways, with that run-on sentence out of the way, I hope you all enjoy! Peace fellow pones! {T}

Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.2

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

Crux, Manta, Thesa, and I walked side by side patrolling the halls of the hive. Why? I have no fucking clue, we're in the middle of nowhere in a giant structure made of stone and shaped exactly like all the mountains around it. Oh and about a hundred magical traps set up along the only entrance, all designed to ignore changelings and unconscious creatures. Doesn't matter to the Queen though, patrols are constantly kept up by her guard and any 'ling that doesn't show up for their patrol gets demoted to drone. Easy job but horrible food rations.

Speaking of jobs, I've basically gone from prisoner to indentured guard. Queen bitch realized early on that I couldn't be held captive for long, so instead she just tries to keep me inside the hive and allows me to roam mostly free. They've even stopped trying to keep me from escaping, not that they could anyways. After being captured my first priority was getting Cara to safety, and that's when they learned not to fuck with my kid. Needless to say I've made them aware of just how 'uncooperative' I could be and they decided to be more lenient with my captivity. Don't get me wrong I am still a prisoner, no matter how many times I escape they always find me and with just a quick stun spell when I'm asleep I'm theirs again. Normally I'd rely on my magic to shield me but I've been feeling off lately. My magic is sluggish and randomly stops working or just changes effects. After my third escape I cast a magic absorbing shield on myself so any spells that hit me would just power up the shield, however when I fell asleep the spell changed and ended up amplifying the changelings magic when they found me. I couldn't move for the next thirty six hours and all attempts at a counter spell failed.

"What's got you so pissed G?" Tes asked as we turned down another corridor.

"More than likely he's thinking about his impotence in magic again." Crux said with a smirk.

Manta put a hoof on my shoulder then spoke. "Don't listen to him Graphite, I'm sure you'll figure out what's going on with your magic soon. Who knows maybe it's being cause by the darkstone thro-"

"Silence your tongue you fool!" Crux hissed in anger. "Acquaintance or not he's still our prisoner. Imagine if the Queen heard you speak of such things to a pony!" With a grimace he added, "No offence." while looking at me.

I just shrugged ignoring the rest of their conversation and looked over to Thesa. "He talking about the throne that blocks all but changeling magic?" I asked.

"Yup." Came her simple response.

"Wanna go get something to eat?" I asked knowing that the other two would be arguing for a while.

"And shirk patrol duty? Hay yeah I do!"

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Queen Chrysalis paced around the throne contemplating her next move on Equestria. Graphite obviously knew of her plans for the wedding and always found a way out of explaining his knowledge. Her main theory was that one of her more pony-like changelings warned the ponies, but then she would remember that he seemed to only hint at it while being captured in front of the princesses. Did they know as well? Which of her subjects betrayed their own species? Could it be one of the three imbeciles that followed him all over the hive? Thorax? The Queen laughed aloud at the thought of such a weak submissive changeling taking a chance of being caught for treason.

Her deliberations were cut short by the sound of an alarm sounding from below.

"Petulant worm!" With an annoyed huff Chrysalis stomped on an activation rune and waited while the throne and the platform around it to lower into the harvesting chamber. Silencing the alarm with another stomp she walked past hundreds of cocooned ponies, both alive and skeletonized, straight to the culprit that set off the alarm. Suspended inside a glowing green mass of changeling gel was a pure black pegasus mare. She sat wide eyed staring at the bug Queen unable to do anything but blink.

"WHY DO YOU TEST MY PATIENCE! STAY! ASLEEP!" She screamed as she let loose a charged knockout spell. Her tail twitched in anger as she considered lowering food production and eliminating this headache of a pony. "You're lucky you produce so much love, you infuriating little buffet."

Unbeknownst to her in her enraged state, another set of eyes watched from afar doing his best to ignore the ghoulish environment around him. He watched as the queen berated the unconscious pony and decided to leave while he had the chance. He silently returned to the throne and flew up through the vertical shaft into the throne room. He decided then and there that he needed to make his move soon, but he'd need help on such short notice. Luckily he knew just who to turn to.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

"DAMNIT!" I yelped. A wisp of smoke trailing from my horn signaled yet another failed attempt at changing my appearance. I could feel the heat radiating from my fur from the buildup of unused magic, too many more attempts and who knows what might happen. Would I explode or just burst into flames? Why am I even wondering about this? Why am I asking so many questions internally? I'm going insane without magic, which is weird considering I've had it for less than a year. I wonder if magic addiction is a thing..

"Missive for Graphite Quill."

"HOLY FUCK!" I yelled. "Da fuck did you come from!?"

The changeling looked mildly startled but continued to hold the letter out in his light green aura. I scowled as I grabbed the letter with my teeth, I didn't want to accidentally light it on fire with my magic. This is always how the queen gets ahold of me when the wants something from me, and usually it's just information. She had her fill of my 'special' spell when I was still under her influence and for some reason once my magic started acting up she was no longer able to keep ahold of my mind. As far as I'm aware she hasn't tried to drain me nor have I given her any info about Equestria, so I have no idea why she's keeping me here. Realizing I'd been standing still with an envelope in my mouth I spat it out and looked up to find that the changeling that delivered the letter was gone. "Fucking changelings, I swear."

I opened the envelope and unfolded the letter only to be surprised by the nearly blank parchment. It read just a few simple words. 'It's your time to shine Sir Quill.'

-=-=- -=-=-

Thorax watched as the hive's only free roaming pony stared in confusion at the paper. Finally realizing how vague he had been he facehooved and left the pony to wonder for now. He needed to assemble the others and he hoped he wasn't making a mistake involving the currently magicless unicorn. His magic isn't what was needed, it was his ability to reach the queen and distract her for long enough for him and his friends to do what needed to be done. The ponies deserved better than to be slowly drained of their love until death. Coexistence IS possible and he and his group were determined to make that a viable option in the future, but they needed to show the ponies that not all changelings were the same. The group had long since put together all the physical needs for the plan, now it was all logistics. They were going to free the ponies, starting with the oldest prisoners they had.

Changelings were always a secretive race, or at least they were before Chrysalis. Ponies know next to nothing about changelings and their abilities, for instance the magical properties of their stasis goo. Long ago the hive found that certain individuals had more love energy to give than others and every generation had one or two rare specimens. Most ponies when completely drained of love would die from depression and end up dissolving away in their pods, but there were those unlucky enough to be born different. When a changeling captures a creature with this rare quality they are immediately raised nearly to the level of a prince in the hive. Why, you may ask? Willpower. There are some who refuse to succumb to their depression no matter how much they are drained, and for whatever reason after the first draining their body produces inconceivable amounts of extra love. These individuals can feed large portions of the hive by themselves for two hundred or more years if properly suspended in the goo. Changeling stasis goo does more than just drain love energy. It can also slow the aging process, making it possible for them to keep their food production going for as long as the creature lives.

So why attack Equestria then? If one of these rare creatures can feed so many, why not just use them and leave others alone? That's the question that Thorax based his beliefs on. To him the Queen was just a power hungry succubus gaining her power through expending the lives of the changelings she's supposed to protect. The same changelings that will one day be her undoing, at least as long as Thorax's group wasn't caught during the upcoming 'event'. Everything was in place, they finished construction on the escape tunnel, his group had infiltrated the guard to run interference if it came down to that, and no-ling seemed to notice anything was going on. If all went to plan none of his 'lings would come to harm, if anything were to happen it'd be on the ponies to help themselves. Thorax cared about all life but he still prioritized his kind over any other, the ponies could recover from loss but his group couldn't. There was already so few of them that shared his beliefs and it was nearly impossible to find more changelings like him, it's just in their nature to hide their true feelings.

Soon Thorax would have a nice long chat with the resident freepony and with the Queens distraction, large quantities of ponies will mysteriously disappear from the hive. Sure they'll be hunted, but at least they'll be prepared this time. Then there was Graphite Quill. Thorax felt guilty for using the pony in such a way, once the Queen found out about the uprising and escape she'll likely blame Graphite and being her pet won't save him. She will kill him. Sacrifices must be made for the greater good, Sir Quill would surely agree if he knew it would save so many of his kind. At least that's what Thorax kept telling himself, sleep came a little easier when he believed his self assurances.

'It's all for the best.' He thought to himself for the thousandth time that day.

Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.3

Author's Note

It's unbelievably difficult for me to write this when I know where things are headed. I planned to have this story end after like 10 chapters but now... This story is headed sooooo far from what I had originally planned and I'm not sure if it's a good thing or not. Anyways, I won't lie, I didn't start writing anything until just a few hours before I posted this. I've been busy actually having a life for once and it's exhausting... However I finally managed to get my brain to crap this nugget out for y'all. It's crap, I know it, but hey it's progression. Peace fellow pones. {T}

Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt.3

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

Things are definitely not going to plan. I kind of figured my presence would disrupt the timeline anyway but shits going down that I didn't expect from this world. I never noticed in Canterlot but this place is more violent than the show ever was, which is understandable considering the targeted audience is children. It was bad enough when changelings interrupted the end of the Gala to kidnap me, but now Thorax has already shown up. The motherfucker has some dumbass plan to save the ponies while I distract the Queen. Jokes on you jackass, I'm not some clueless scapegoat for you to use as you please. Plausible deniability, I'll distract the Queen while being completely accounted for elsewhere thus eliminating any suspicions being placed on me.

"Oh fuck me." I muttered.

The now familiar voice of Thesa spoke from behind me. "Is that an offer?"

Ignoring the fact that I was alone just seconds ago, I sighed in resignation. "For once, yes."

Apparently unfazed she responds. "Cool. When and where?"

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Changeling construction drone teams buzzed around the hive blocking off tunnels and building new ones seemingly at random. The disruptions were happening all over the hive causing chaos and throwing the entire civilization into turmoil. Queen Chrysalis spent most of the day yelling out orders to cease and desist, repairs were under way and she was more enraged than anyling had ever seen. Every construction team told her the same story, they were awoken early for a job, straight from the Queen herself, to completely change the hives tunnel system. She'd never sent any such orders. Following the paperwork back to the original source she found a parchment written in a hoofwriting style she recognized, it even had her personal mark stamped at the bottom of the page.

The enraged queen stormed through the hive headed to a specific room not far from her own. As she got closer to her destination she noticed the guards she passed were getting noticeably more clumsy when they moved out of her way. Reaching her destination she found two of the three imbeciles, that were ordered to watch a certain thorn in her side, unconscious on the floor. Letting her anger dissipate a bit, she started to sense what was going on around her. Massive amounts of lust permeated the air, so much so that the nearby guards were drunk off it. These two being the closest to the source were rendered unconscious from the emotional overload. Chrysalis sneered as she slammed open the doors to Graphite Quills room.

On the bed lay the unmoving body of a very giggly and exhausted changeling, Thesa. Next to her lay the grinning face of one of the most infuriating ponies the Queen had ever met.

"If you came to enjoy the show, you're too late. Unless you're here to join, in whi-" Graphite was cut off as he was picked up by the throat in sickly green magic.

"I'd advise against antagonizing me at the moment, I'm in a rather 'bloody' mood right now." She said angerly dropping him to the floor.

Unfazed he stood and smartly dropped the smug attitude. "What's up with you Chrissy? I've been hearing your screaming from all the way in here. Hell I even heard it over Thesa's moaning."

The Queens eye started to twitch as she held in the rage building inside her. She wanted nothing more than to vaporize the insignificant bug where he stood, but she needed answers first. "You know well why I'm here!" She yelled as she threw the rolled up parchment at the pony. She watched as he picked it up in his magic, which she noted was working today, and read over the document.

"Damn good forgery. Your infiltrators are getting better, this is a damn near exact match for my hoofwriting. Whoever did this has the writing style down but these orders are completely unbelievable, why the hell would you ever order something like this to be done?" Shrugging he tossed the scroll onto the bed. "I sure as hell didn't write this, this has changeling written all over it-"

The Queen screamed in fury as she grabbed him in her magic. "I KNOW YOU DID THIS YOU INSOLENT CUR!" Just as the Changeling Queen was about to tear the pony apart limb from limb, the ground shook beneath her hooves. Alarms could be faintly heard from below, ones she had not heard for a very long time. Her vault had been opened. She dropped Graphite again and disappeared in a flash of green flame.

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

"The alarms been tripped, we're out of time. Squad 1 make sure the ponies are gone and place any stragglers back into stasis. Squad 2 collapse the tunnel and weave as many illusion spells as you can over the rubble, I don't want to see a single pebble out of place when you're done. Everyling else get back to where you're supposed to be up top, we're done here!" Thorax yelled. He didn't know why they placed him in charge of this rebellious group, but it felt right to him. Not for the power but because he felt he could lead his kind to a better future, one where they could stop harming other creatures and live in peace.

Thorax watched as the last of his group left to mingle with the populace, leaving him and eight others to finish off the clean up duty. The first Squad reported back no lingering ponies left behind and were subsequently sent home. It would be a while before the second squad could finish their work, which would give him plenty of time to think and plan out his next steps. That is of course as long as the Queen didn't show up sooner than expected. He'd found out about Graphite's plan immediately and without needing to be told he added in his own assurances to make sure things went according to the ponies plan. If everything goes well, Sir Quill should be safe. There was a lot of risk, but if the reward meant no creature had to die then it was worth it. Especially since all the risks were being taken by the pony and the 'lings loyal to Chrysalis. He'd underestimated the pony. Graphite Quill came up with a decent plan that could possible nullify the Queens power for a long time.

-=-=- Graphite -=-=-

I'm glad my magic decided to start working again when the shit hit the fan. However it's different.. It feels wrong, somehow. Not that I'm going to let that stop me from getting the hell out of here. I was going to just keep playing the good little prisoner and stay a while longer but with my magic going haywire like this I can't guarantee that I'll ever have another chance to get away from this hell hole. Don't get me wrong I had my fun here, but I miss those damn ponies and their innocent minds. Hanging out with Crux Manta and Thesa has been fun and all but they're more human like than I'd prefer. I can only take so much human-like behavior before it starts to annoy me just like the people back home did.

I left the three stooges back where Chrysalis last saw them, they are loyal to their Queen and I don't want to force them to come with me to the side of the rebellion. Manta is soft enough that he might help the ponies but he's too weak minded to be able to hold up to any questioning. I doubt Thesa gives a shit either way, but Crux is a Chrysalis follower through and through. He only put up with my shit because I'm not as prissy or weak as 'my kind' usually is and I wouldn't take his shit without giving it right back.

Using my magic I follow the tracer spell I placed on Chrysalis, she should be at her vault trying to figure out how the alarm was tripped on the inside while it was still sealed tight. She has my weird ass magic to thank for that. From my room just based off a description of the outside of the vault I placed a spell inside that would trip the alarm one minute after she inevitably barged into my room for answers. I was straight up lying to her of course, I had indeed broke into her room and wrote that document myself. Following the halls leading towards her position I ended up in the Throne room looking at the darkstone throne. Oddly enough my magic isn't being pulled at like it was the first time I was brought here, in fact it seemed the stone was calling out to me. Using magic sight I see a trail of multicolored magic drifting towards me from a marking on the floor. I hesitantly walk up to the symbol and touch it out of instinct, only to be surprised and startled when the floor started to lower like an elevator.

Something felt different down here, I could practically feel the the terror and sadness from all the ponies that had been trapped here. I'd never been here before but I knew this was my way out. After Thorax's poorly worded note and his suggested plan, I had a chat with him about my own plans for escape once my magic had returned. He preferred my plan and waited for the signal to be sent by me once I was able to cast again. Hence the chaotic construction bullshit from earlier. He was supposed to use that time to help as many ponies escape as possible without being caught. Which meant he couldn't wait for me before closing the tunnel, it would risk too many lives. I just hope I made it in time, I need to go with the ponies and protect them. Most of them are weak or injured and as far as I can tell I'm the only 'regular' pony that can sense them when they're in disguise. They'd be fucked on their own out there even if the changelings weren't going to be hunting them down.

The platform touched ground and the smell of decay pervaded my senses. So much death and fear.. I can't help but wonder if this Equestria is even the same one I know so much about. Could all of this have been happening in the background while the show focused on the Elements? My reverie is interrupted by a sound behind me.

"Chitters in the night," I spoke aloud.

"Strike fear in our prey." A voice behind me finished.

A sigh of both relief and defeat left my lips. "You guys really need a new passphrase. It's too damn corny." Turning to look at Thorax I saw him frown, I could have sworn I heard him mutter that he thought it was cool. Fucking dweeb. "Am I too late?"

His serious demeanor returned. "For the main tunnel yes, but I planned for your late arrival. You saved allot of lives today and I couldn't leave you high and dry. I hid an extra tunnel in one of the Queens 'hidden' escape tunnels. It leads to the same tunnel the ponies took."

Ha! Sneaky bastard. "Lead on then." I said. I followed him through the maze of broken cocoons occasionally passing by elderly ponies and even more that were injured or disabled in some way. As heartless as it sounds, it would be pointless to try to save them. They would basically just be dead weight for the ones that are able to travel, plus changelings need food. I can't fault them for what they do, they can't help what they are forced to eat. I can't justify dooming a species just because I don't like what they eat. We could co-exist but neither sides leaders would ever consider it.

My eyes glided past several helpless creatures floating in their pods until one caught my eye. I stopped in my tracks as I locked eyes with a pure black pegasus. She looked terrified but also curious. Thorax noticed my dumfounded gaze but not the wide awake mare that was staring at me through her pod.

Unable to look away, I pointed a hoof at her. "This one is awake."

Finally taking notice of this he just nodded and shrugged. "Subject 34 has always given us trouble, she can power through the sedation magic of the pod by willpower alone. She's a strong one that's been with us for a VERY long time, while not overly productive she has lasted longer in the pod than any other before her."

"How long?" I asked. The mare in question teared up as she curled into a fetal position.

"If I remember correctly she's been a captive at the last three hives before this one, so I'd say she 'should' be around one hundred and eighty by now. Each hive last's about fifty or so years befo-"

I couldn't hear anything he said after I heard how long she'd been a food source. Awake in stasis for almost two hundred years, barely able to move, and in constant fear of your captors returning. Sure she wasn't awake the entire time but still, to be trapped for so long..

I decided then and there, "She's coming with me. Now."

Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt. 4

Author's Note

Factory work sucks. I've been working basically nonstop for the past few months Mon-Sat because production is so far behind.. This basically gives me one day to do everything I put off throughout the week like laundry, cleaning, dishes, all the normal housework crap that we all have to do when we decide to start adulting. -.- Anyways I'm exhausted and haven't been feeling much like writing these days. I'll be glad when we go back to normal scheduling. Peace fellow pones, this brony is going to take a nap now. {T}

P.S. Covid Sucks!

Act. 2 The Forgotten Mare Pt. 4

"You do realize what all comes with this decision right? She's been gone from the world for a long time and there will be repercussions."

When I didn't respond Thorax shrugged and sent a burst of magic into the pod. The terrified mare stared at us as the green substance dissipated around her. Her hooves touched the ground and she stood, tail tucked, fear and confusion etched across her features. I watched as she glanced around expecting her to freak out or run.

"I'll assume you have a basic understanding of the situation, it would be in your best interest to follow me." I said using an amped up version of my calming aura spell. At this level of power it's basically just a mental manipulation spell which even by my standards is wrong on so many levels but I don't have the time to mess around right now. For a moment I thought I saw her eyes glow as she visibly relaxed. Weird.

"Now, how the hell do we get out of here?"

-=-=-=- -=-=-=-

Thorax had never seen a pony like Graphite. As a changeling he was used to infiltrating different societies and absorbing their culture and speech patterns through observation and research. Graphite was a difficult subject to read, his mannerisms, speech, and just his actions in general don't match with any race he'd been around. Something was off about this unicorn, something that just didn't sit right with the changeling. Thorax could tell something was off about the mare, and not because of her recent freedom. She went from terrified to calm immediately after Graphite spoke to her, it reminded him of changeling mind control but without the mindless look of a thrall. She seemed to just not care about anything and was even looking around curiously as they walked. Though she still had not spoken a single word.

Thorax led the two ponies through the tunnels until the texture of the walls changed to that of normal limestone and shale. Continuing on the group began hearing sounds coming from further down the tunnel. "We've caught up with the rest of the escaped ponies it seems. You'd best continue on without me, I doubt the ponies are very fond of my kind even though we just helped them escape." Thorax spoke quietly to Graphite. "Just follow the tunnel out and head north along the canyon wall and eventually you'll run into a road. Take the road north to Dodge Junction, the ponies we left behind there should be able to help you."

Quirking his brow Graphite asked, "The ponies you left behind?"

Sighing quietly to himself Thorax answered. "When the queen abducted ponies from all over Equestria she tried to take about half the population from every city. Dodge Junction already had such a low population that the few that were left behind had to request help from your princesses. I don't know the exact number but we probably left somewhere around twenty ponies."

Silence lingered between the two before a light nudge stirred Graphite from his thoughts. The pegasus mare was nudging his side with her nose as she pointed down the dark corridor towards the group of survivors. Taking this as 'hurry up' Graphite raised a hoof towards Thorax. "Thanks for helping all these ponies escape, and for helping me. If all goes well this should be the last time I see anymore changelings."

Thorax smiled a little as he raised his hoof to grip the unicorns. "Good luck Graphite, and be careful with that magic of yours. Chrysalis isn't the only one that will notice how different you are from the average pony. I don't know what you really are, but you don't have to be a changeling to know when someone is impersonating something they're not." The two shook hooves before heading in opposite directions, the mare following Graphite towards the sounds of the other survivors. For a fraction of a second Thorax thought he felt a connection to the unicorn, it felt familiar, almost like the hive-mind...

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

Freaky. The future bug king knows I'm not really a pony, though I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. Changelings have to be rather intuitive to be able to blend in and I know I've not been acting very pony-like lately. Oh well. I shouldn't have to worry about changelings as much anymore. I know the queen bitch will be looking for me but she won't find me this time. I'll make sure of that. My magic is... Different. It feels like it's stronger but more unpredictable. I was even able to use magic while in the throne room which makes absolutely no sense considering the Darkstone Throne can even disable Discord's magic. Don't get me wrong I already knew I was stupidly overpowered when it came to magic but this is just ridiculous.

I can't really say for sure why I chose to save this mare. Something in my mind just told me that I needed to release her once I saw her looking back at me from the pod. Maybe I'm growing more compassionate in this world? God I hope not. Saving a kid is one thing, but now I'm saving damsels in distress and that's the kind of shit knights in shining armor do. Speaking of kids, I really need to get this shit dealt with so I can get back to mine. I miss Cara and I know she misses me.

I'd been using a light spell to navigate the tunnel but not far in front of us I saw natural fire light. Seeing as there is no wood in this underground tunnel there has to be at least a few semi-talented unicorns in the group to make so much magical fire. I could see hundreds of ponies grouped around the fires for a long distance down the corridor. Just as I started to pick up my pace I came to an abrupt stop as my tail was pulled rather forcibly. Turning back I saw the pegasus mare that I'd set free biting onto my tail in order to stop me.

"What's up?" I asked curious as to why she stopped me.

She let go of my tail and instead reached out with her wing pointing at the survivors camp, then at me before flapping both of her wings.

"I don't understand what you want. Can't you speak?"

The mare rolled her eyes before pointing at my back with a hoof.

It took me a moment to realize she was pointing at my wings. I had gotten so used to their existence that I'd forgotten that I shouldn't have them. Had I of walked into the ponies camp like this they'd immediately think I was a changeling. "Well it's a good thing one of us was thinking ahead, thanks for pointing that out." I said with a tired smile. Disguising my wings with illusion magic we continued towards the camp. We'd not walked very far overall but I was still tired, mainly due to the stressful situation. I'm normally rather lacking when it comes to showing emotions, people think that because of how I act that I'm cold hearted or emotionless. In reality I hate seeing others suffer, and the things I saw under the throne room hit me harder than I'd like to admit. It still amazes me how different Equestria is from what you see in the show.

"Shouldn't you be a little freaked out by me? I mean you just casually pointed out that my WINGS were going to cause us trouble." I spoke quietly voicing my concerns to the mare. "You realize I shouldn't even have wings right?" She just nodded in response then shrugged. "Can you really not speak?" Another shrug. Gods above, conversing with this mare is going to be annoying, I was bad enough at charades when I was still on earth. Now I have to figure out what this pony is trying to tell me through shrugs and pointing.

Act. 2 The Harbinger of Freedom

I could feel my wings bristle under the illusion magic as we walked towards the mass of escaped ponies. My magic seems to be responsive again which makes me believe it was the throne that was causing my magic to go haywire, but I still don't understand how I was able to use it at all. Regardless I have it back now which is going to make things so much easier, even if it still feels odd compared to before all the changeling shit. I should really look into a way of getting myself checked out, maybe the ponies have a way of detecting abnormalities in a unicorns magic? I can't say I know what is normal where magic is involved.

"Somethings coming!" "THEY FOUND US!" "EVERYPONY RUN" Voices and screaming broke me from my thoughts. It seems they finally noticed our approach and decided to do what scared ponies do best. Word spread fast and before long ponies started to sprint down the tunnel, more and more joining them along the way.

Charging my horn I yelled, "STOP," and to my confusion a shield wall rose in front of the ponies trapping them between me and their only escape route. There was more screaming from down the tunnel as ponies continued to flee. The ponies on my side beat on the shield while a few separated from the crowd to stand protectively in front of everypony else. I had meant to use my magic to amplify my voice but I guess my magic is still doing whatever it wants.

"I'm not a changeling! I'm sorry for scaring all of you but I need to talk to you." I stated calmly.

"Why should we believe you!"

I studied the earth pony stallion, he was one of the few that stood in front of the rest. The others that had joined him stood silently, most shaking from fear or exhaustion. None of them were a real threat to me judging from their sources but regardless I didn't want to let my guard down. "I know you're all terrified and have no reason to believe me, but I am here to help. I was a prisoner as well but I wasn't kept in the pods like you all so it took me more time to get here." Quickly turning to my magic sight I looked around and smiled. Bingo. With a yelp of shock three of the forty or so ponies levitated over to me and were slammed to the ground. More screaming from the ponies didn't distract me from my spellcasting at I dispelled the magic of the three changelings. There were gasps of shock in the crowd and some muttering but I ignored it all while I held the three down by their throats.

"There are changelings among you and I can help you find them. If I were one of them, why would I force them to show their true forms?"

The same earth pony from before spoke again seemingly mollified. He seemed like their impromptu leader. "You seem far too powerful to be be some average unicorn. If you aren't one of them then what are you? Not many have the kind of power you've shown us. I mean Tartarus, I'm not even a unicorn and I can feel magic coming off of you in waves."

Should I? No, I'll come up with some 'I'm an alicorn' bullshit lie and show off my wings later if they get suspicious. For now an ultimatum should suffice. "I'm stronger than the average unicorn but that's all I am. If you don't want to believe me then fine, I'll just release these three and go on about my business and leave you all to figure out who is real and who is an imposter." I paused for dramatic effect to let the thought sink in. "Or you could accept my offer of help and I can put an end to your pest problem." When I finished my speech I looked down to see the changelings laying unmoving on the ground. Woops, I forgot I was strangling them. Loosening my grip I knelt down to make sure they were still breathing. Thank god they were, otherwise I'd actually feel really guilty.

The ponies had huddled together to talk while I tended to the changelings. The leader spoke up again. "What part does she play in all this?" He said pointing the the mute mare that has stayed by my side ever since her release.

Good question. "Another survivor. She was awake when I made my escape so I brought her with me." They returned to talking amongst themselves so I turned to the mare in question. She was calmly watching the ponies discuss my offer and occasionally glancing at the changelings. "Anything you want to add to the conversation?" She just shrugged. "Didn't think so." I said with a sigh.

-=-=-

After a lengthy talk about the changelings and an explanation about what exactly they are, the ponies were split between being completely terrified of them and hopeful that more were like the ones that set them free. The earth pony told me that Thorax had explained very little about what was happening and only said that they should keep running and that any changelings that might be among them were not on the side of the rebellion. Good news for me I guess, the three I captured were likely spies among his group. If we ever caught up with the rest of the ponies I'd have to carefully watch for any more. The ponies took to the mute mare immediately once they decided to accept my offer of help, and annoyingly enough they seemed to perfectly understand her gestures. They were having full on conversations with her while I tried, in vain, to decipher what she was saying by using the others responses as a guide. Might as well have been watching Fluttershy speak with one of her animals.

We started walking down the tunnel as a group once I lowered my shield and at first everypony had kept their distance from me and the changelings I was dragging along. However curiosity got the better of them and they started surrounding us and asking tons of questions. The mute mare of course stayed by my side forcing me to deal with their questions as well. The changelings had been bound together in stone thanks to my magic and I kept a constant draw on their sources. I was hoping depriving them of their magic would cancel out their hive mind, plus it had the unintended effect of keeping them asleep. I had to keep checking to make sure they were still breathing because I'm not sure if keeping them empty of magic would kill them. Creatures created by magic tend to not fare well when their magic is taken from them, at least that's what stories from my world say. I don't think I could ever kill another sapient being on purpose, and I'd feel pretty bad if I did by accident. Sure I used to hunt back on earth and I owned a few guns for home defense but I'm not a murderer.

I had been lighting the way for everyone because the few unicorns that were in the group I traveled with were about to drop from exhaustion. They all were, but the difference between the three tribes was obvious. The earth ponies were tired but looked good enough to keep going for a while, and the pegasi were a little rougher but still not as bad as the unicorns. When I suggested we stop and rest most of the group agreed but the groups leader, the same earth pony from earlier, said we should keep moving in case we were followed. I managed to get him to agree to let everypony rest after I told him the tunnels were sealed behind us. We were all laying down to relax with my shield wall blocking the path to our rear. My spellwork allowed some to relax enough to get some much needed sleep. Unfortunately they were unable to sleep for long as a loud rumbling and crashing noise could be heard from further along the tunnel. They started to panic about what that could have been and me with my ever present wisdom decided to tell them my opinion. A cave-in.

I was getting tired of being underground so I decided that we should get going and check out what happened. Not wanting to be left behind they followed my lead. After another half hour of walking my light spell illuminated a dead end. A solid wall of boulders and dirt blocked the path. Sometimes I hate being right. Ignoring the sobbing and hopeless feelings around me I noticed a small twiggy bush in the debris. Bushes don't grow in caves.

"Everyone stand back."

-=-=-

I could still hear the ponies talking about the hole I created for us to escape the tunnel even while we were setting up a temporary camp for the night. It was a few hours from dusk when I blew through the rubble so we traveled to the road and gathered what little bit of wood there was for a fire. Magical fire didn't actually produce heat so it wouldn't help against the frigid air at night in this desert. The unicorns and earth ponies worked together to stack rocks into a short wall around the camp to work as a kind of wind break. The power behind the hooves of earth ponies is terrifying, they were taking turns bucking rock walls to break off smaller pieces to work with. One of them accidentally left a fissure in the wall that was at least twelve feet high and a foot deep. I offered to put up a shield around us but apparently some of them were still traumatized by the changeling pods and were extremely claustrophobic now. I could understand how that might make them feel trapped again.

Much to my annoyance the camp was rather small for the amount of ponies in the group, at least in my opinion. Basically everypony was going to have to sleep side to side if they wanted to stay close to the fire. Being the herd animals that ponies are this was completely acceptable for all of them but annoying for me. I'm not really into the whole cuddle pile thing, if I'm sleeping next to someone I'd prefer it to only be us two. Once night hit I immediately went to a wall and lay down against it hoping the ponies would stay closer to the fire. I was mostly right. The mute mare walked up to me gesturing at me and after she saw the obvious confusion on my face she facehooved.

"She's saying you might get cold laying against the rocks." One of the nearby ponies said.

"I'll be fine here, I don't like crowds."

After some more gesturing the mute mare lay down next to me. "She said since you're being stubborn she'll help you stay warm." The translator said with a giggle. Sighing in defeat I just lay my head down and closed my eyes. I felt a wing drape over my back soon after. It was actually really nice and warm so I didn't bother making a big deal out of it. Not long after that I felt myself drifting off to sleep.

Author's Note

No herding in this story, Graphite is firmly monogamous, and no the so far unnamed mare will not be taking Luna's place. I've got a full weekend off so I decided to try to crank out a chapter before I went to sleep. It's just after 3am for me and I need to do stuff later so I'll edit later. Peace fellow pones! {T}

The Truth (Intro)

"JUST TELL ME THE TRUTH! That's all i want, the truth. Who are you Quill, who are you really?" It was bound to happen sooner or later, I knew she would find out. I let too much information slip. I blame this damned emotion that i feel towards her, love. Its my undeniable love for her that made me soft, and made me comfortable enough to talk to her about myself. Love started this, I just hope this isn't the end of her love for me.

Act. 2 The Homecoming

-=-=- Canterlot -=-=-

"We must find him Luna! I know he used to be a dear friend of ours but things have changed, he has changed! He is far too dangerous to be left to his own devises!" Celestia said with barely restrained fear as she looked at the now empty stone pedestal. Discord was gone, and she had no idea as to how long. 'Of all ponies its was the half-prince Blueblood that alerted me to the statues disappearance. He actually though I was replacing Discord with the disgustingly detailed statue of his...' Celestia shuddered in remembrance of the drawing Blueblood had commissioned for reference. 'There is something seriously wrong with that twit.' She thought to herself.

Luna noticed her sisters distracted thoughts by the look on her face, it was the same one Graphite had when he was thinking to himself. Everything seemed to remind her of her missing friend these days. She was still fairly angry with him and lost a lot of trust for the human, but she couldn't deny the feelings she had for him. He'd have to work hard to regain her trust, 'If he ever returns.' She wasn't sure that he would want to return with his identity revealed.

Luna sighed. "I understand your fears dear sister but as it is now he is impossible to track. There are no signs of chaos spreading amongst our little ponies and he has left us his promise of reformation. I understand that I was not present to see what he did after my banishment but you know as well as I do that Discord never breaks a promise." Luna hummed in thought. "Actually it is one of the only things that is unchanging about that tumultuous clown."

Discord had left a small message etched into the surface of his pedestal that was constantly changing. The message would shift slowly spelling nonsensical words they didn't recognize but sometimes a legible sentence would form. It read, 'I will return at a later date once I'm finished with an important task. I promise to not take over Equestria before then.'

-=-=- Somewhere -=-=-

"DAD!"

A startled griffon jerked awake pulling his knife from its sheath. A quick glance around the small room was all it took to assure him they were still safe. As he relaxed a bit he looked to the other occupant in the room, a young white griffon that was wide awake and smiling.

"Another dream from your father?" He asked.

"YES! He said he's coming to pick me up!" Cara said excitedly.

"Did he say anything about the changelings that are following us?" Andraste asked.

"Um, he said that you should follow plan S? Whatever that means." She said while still bouncing with excitement. The young hen had been strong in her fathers absence but she missed him a great deal and Andraste could see it in her eyes over the past months . Now though he could see the pure happiness she radiated, which no doubt alerted their stalkers that something happened. He sighed checking his gear and started heading for the door. Plan S was a mildly disturbing contingency plan that that crazy pony Graphite came up with when he last saw them before he let himself be captured again. Andraste was explicitly told that Cara was NOT allowed to witness what was about to happen. Pulling the enchanted necklace from his pack he tossed it to the youngling.

"Put that on and stay in here, father's orders. STAY here, got it?"

He waited until after she nodded and put on the necklace. Trusting Graphite's enchantment to keep her safely hidden, Andraste left the room with haste closing the door behind him. He sprinted down the hall of the inn and straight through the dining area towards the door leading outside. Planning to slam through them to make as much noise as possible, he was painfully surprised when they stayed firmly closed causing him to bounce off and hit the floor. He stood struggling to regain his breath with his now crumpled breastplate restricting his movement. The griffon heard a chittering laugh behind him as he drew his sword from its sheath on his back and spun. Three ponies stood atop the bar smirking at him with their glowing eyes.

"Just where do you think you're going feathers? Aren't you forgetting someone?" The left changeling said.

"Yeah where is the little brat?" Said the one on the right.

"I can't feel her. You two stay here and make sure he doesn't follow."

Andraste watched as the center changeling headed back the way he came from. Doing his best to keep his emotions in check he waited until it was out of sight before he quickly unsheathed his knife and threw it with his free claw. His target yelped and produced a shield only for the dagger to pass through with ease. The shield did manage to slightly change its coarse ultimately saving the changeling from a quick death as the dagger stuck in its front shoulder. Using the throw as a distraction, Andraste lunged at the uninjured changeling impaling it through the chest through its own shield. The look of shock died with the changeling as the griffon beheaded the injured changeling and retrieving his knife from its corpse.

With a huff of annoyance Andraste muttered to himself. "That damned pony." Plan S is to simply kill the changelings that were following them by using some specially enchanted weapons. The griffon isn't against killing changelings but he did find it strange that a pony would suggest the idea. When asked about his lack of care towards another living creature, Graphite simply said 'they started it'. Sheathing his weapons he sprinted down the hallway intent on shredding the changeling to pieces before it found Cara. Seeing their room's door open he ran in to find the changeling laying undisguised next to Cara on the bed.

"I almost didn't believe Graphite when he told me about his griffon daughter, but I should've know considering how weird that pony is." The changeling said with a fanged smile. "Oh yeah I guess I should probably introduce myself, I'm Thesa, and I'm no threat to you or the child."

Andraste watched the changeling slowly rise and jump down from the bed where it sat calmly watching him. "I'll give you the benefit of explaining yourself before I behead you like your friend back there, but I'd suggest you speak quickly."

-=-=-

Andraste wasn't sure if he was making a mistake trusting the bug called Thesa but Graphite had mentioned her in one of his messages during his time in the hive. She had also explained what happened in the hive and how she had been forced out due to unknowingly taking part in a distraction for the queen. The Queen Chrysalis blamed her along with a great many other changelings for 'helping' all the ponies escape. The true traitors were executed but the one's like Thesa that weren't directly involved were banished from the hive.

According to the changeling it was painful to lose contact with the hive mind but it had also shaken her from the spell she had unknowingly been influenced by. Since her awakening she had realized that the hatred and malice she'd felt when around other species was gone and she no longer felt trapped by her responsibilities to the queen.

"Now I don't really know what I want to do. I'm happy to be truly free for once but that father of yours is partially at fault for me losing my family and friends. If he hadn't drawn me into his plans I would still have a home, so he needs to take responsibility for his actions. That is why I infiltrated the group of infiltrators following you two." Thesa explained to the young griffon as they continued on their way to the nearby train station. She had disguised herself as a plum colored thestral which drew more eyes than usual to the odd group. "I'm lucky I was able to recognize his magic in that necklace of yours, if we hadn't uh.." She paused with a visible blush and glanced down at the young griffon. "gotten to know each other as well as we did I likely wouldn't have found you two. I could sense his love for you fueling that protection enchantment."

Annoyed by the extra attention they were receiving Andraste started looking for an empty train car. Luck was not on their side as there seemed to be at least a dozen ponies in each segment. "While I can understand your situation I still don't fully understand why you didn't just look for Graphite himself. If he escaped with so many other ponies then why not just follow their tracks, surely that would have been much faster than looking for us." He said while he counted the bits he had left.

The fake thestral thought for a moment before shrugging. "I honestly don't know." She ignored the larger griffons scowl. "Don't get me wrong the thought crossed my mind but something told me that I'd have a better chance of him helping me stay hidden if I helped protect his daughter. Besides I see him as a friend and I'm going to need someone on my side if I'm going to survive without regular love rations. Not all of us are trained to steal love covertly."

Silence ensued as they approached the ticket booth and Andraste payed the last of his bits for a room in one of the private cars. He was charged extra because the rooms were usually reserved for overnight trips while his destination was only a few hours away. Cara had told them that the train would be the fastest route to where they were meeting her father and neither questioned her judgment. Andraste had learned early on to trust the young griffoness, she was always honest about what she did and didn't know and had yet to steer him wrong.

As much as he hated leaving his wife and newborn, when Graphite requested his aid in saving the little white griffoness Andraste couldn't refuse. When the unicorn offered to return the favor in the future he reluctantly agreed and left his family in his brothers care. Between all the inns, train rides, and miscellaneous other expenses, Graphite owed the griffon more than just a favor. The pony's contribution of bits didn't last long and when asked for more, the unicorn only said that he no longer had access to his money.

Getting on the train the trio entered their private room and tried to get comfy but the tension kept them all on edge and Cara was tired of it. "Thesa, What cuss word does my dad always say whenever something doesn't go his way? He usually says it under his breath like he thinks nobody else can hear him."

Slightly confused by the question she thought back to their games of Ogres and Oubliettes to when one of their characters would roll good numbers and find his traps. "Well he likes to say damn a lot, like all the time now that I think about it."

Cara nodded and asked another question. "Now who is my dad in love with?"

"Princess Luna." Thesa responded without hesitation.

"Okay, then what is his favorite color?" Cara asked crossing her arms.

Now worried Thesa spoke slowly. "Uh, I actually don't know that one."

Cara smirked looking at Andraste. "Neither do I. My dad never talks about mundane stuff like that, not even to me. If you'd said something like red or white I'd have been a little suspicious. Now Andy calm down and stop tensing up every time she uses magic, I'm telling you that I trust her so no trying to kill her." She then looked towards the thestral. "I may be young but I think I understand a little bit about what you mentioned earlier, the whole 'getting to know each other better' thing. I'm warning you now if you even so much as think about trying to take my dad away from Luna, I'll personally make sure you regret ever meeting him. Understood?"

While Andraste looked on with pride Thesa actually shivered with a little fear and nodded quickly. As if she hadn't just successfully intimidated a being three times her size, Cara continued speaking in a friendly and carefree voice. "Great! I think I'm gonna take a nap now, wake me up when we're almost there please!"

The last thing Cara heard made her smile as she went to sleep.

"What the buck was that?! She's scarier than Chrysalis!"

-=-=-=- Graphite -=-=-=-

I rode the train in silence as the mute mare stared out the window watching the scenery pass by. I'd left the ponies behind when we made it to town, there was already a shit load of ponies there and they had gotten in contact with the Equestrian Guard. The moment I saw that my group was safe I teleported the captured changelings in front of some guards and went straight to the train station. Since my magic has somewhat evened itself out again I was easily able to summon some money for tickets straight to Canterlot where I'd finally be reunited with Cara. Regardless of how we left things off I hope the princesses will put aside my deceit long enough to hear me out.

From the beginning I've worried about not screwing with the timeline but I recognize my mistake now. Things had been a bit different from the start but I refused to see reality for what it is, until now. This isn't the same timeline or universe that I know and love and my knowledge might not be as harmful as I thought, hell it might even help prevent some world ending event! What if in this universe Sombra is destined to take his empire back, and somehow finds a way of corrupting the Crystal Heart into spreading corruption across the world. Extremely unlikely but there's no way for me to know what's going to happen and when.

The gala is the last known event that happened and next should be Discord but he's already mentioned on several occasions that he's planning on being nice this time around. At the time I ignored what he said but maybe he has knowledge of other realities and meant that this time around he's taking a backseat? Who knows with that fucker, maybe he is gonna play nice but what then? Will he still try working with Tirek? I guess technically it doesn't matter as long as I warn the princesses about his eventual escape, I'm sure they could strengthen his cell or at least bind him up more. Whatever happens with Discord he should have already 'escaped' his stony prison.

The next world changing event should be Princess Cadence's wedding but with the changelings having already blown their cover I doubt they will have an easy time enacting their plan. I should still tell the princesses though. Immediately after is the Crystal Empire and I can just tell them Where to find the Crystal Heart as soon as they get there so they can... Wait wasn't that one of the big tests for Twilight, to see if she could protect Equestria? Damn.. I feel like I should do my part but I don't want to interfere with the making of Equestria's next princess, so I'll have to talk to Celestia about that one.

A weight on my side took me from my musings and I looked over to see that the mute mare was leaning on me while dozing off. I didn't bother pushing her away, I've been growing more fond of how physical ponies are. Normally I'd be more opposed of such contact but they're so warm and soft, it's comforting. Who am I kidding I'm the one becoming soft, I used to not give a shit about anyone or anything. Well at least that's how I've been the last 6 years anyways, I suppose becoming a magical talking mini-horse is just what the therapist order to fix my moodiness. I suppose if I wanted to be a decent person, or pony, again I'll probably have to let go of my regrets and past mistakes. Ha, funny joke right? If only it were that simple.

I look out the window and see Canterlot Mountain looming in the distance.

-=-=-=-

I had changed back to my old colors, dark green and faded blue, just in case the word had spread about the 'alicorn' at the gala. I told Cara where to meet up last time we talked in the dreamscape and I know they were closer to Canterlot than I was so they should be waiting for me there. I'll need to pay Andraste for keeping her safe and fed for so long but that's really not an issue now. I know my old boss likely knows who I really am by now but hopefully she'll be willing to at least let me explain myself. I hate that I actually care what she thinks about me.

I sighed at my shadow, the mute one that seemed to be set on following me wherever I go. "Why are you still following me? You realize you're completely free to go wherever you want right?"

She shrugged and gestured some more nonsense at me.

Annoyed I decided to act now and ask for permission later. "I apologize in advance and I promise I'll ask next time." Casting a spell on her I temporarily linked our minds similar to telepathy but much more personal.

'Ask what? *sigh* This is so frustrating.'

"How do you think I feel? At least you don't need magic to hear me." I said in reply to her thoughts.

Realization seemed to dawn on the mute mare as she actually looked a little pissed. 'One of these days we are going to talk about what exactly you are. Oh and boundaries, because you are extremely lucky that I'm so tired of not being understood.'

"Well if you plan on following me everywhere you'll get your explanation soon. Now why exactly are you following me around?"

'I figured it would be obvious. The world left me behind and I don't have a family to return to, I was an only child and my parents died before I was captured. I just figured that if you were willing to help me escape then you might also be willing to help me get back on my hooves. Plus I really want to know how you exist, I mean male alicorns can't physically exist yet here you are.'

"I'm not entirely sure what you mean by that but you're probably right. I'm actually just a unicorn, my extra limbs are just a side effect of my magical experimentation. I'll explain more later after I talk to my old boss."

Author's Note

Badass Cara always gets what she wants. Anyways as much as I hate to admit this I was fairly close to dropping this story and Fimfiction as a whole. I'm no longer the stay-at-home degenerate that I've been for most of my life and I don't really know how or when it happened. Lately I've been spending any free time I have with family and friends and I've even been on a few dates which is really weird for me. I've never been big on that sort of thing, or even just socializing in general. People change, and for once it was me. Long story short I'm more focused on life and it may take me several months to get each new chapter out. However long it may take I will finish this story though, so that's some good news for those of you who haven't dropped the story yet. Anyways that's my little explanation for the several month gap in posting and this is likely the last time I talk about my upload schedule. I hope you enjoyed, peace fellow pones. {T}