The Trials of Loveby extremeenigma02ChaptersBad DayA New WorldCapturedBad DayThe sky was black and cold on a dreary, rainy fall day in the city of Minneapolis. The capital city of the great state of Minnesota on a daily basis could only be described as a bustling metropolis. Gigantic buildings, fantastic restaurants, and people crossing the street as far as the eye could see. The one thing that really sucked about Minneapolis, actually Minnesota in general, was the weather could be a real shit show. It could be hot as the seventh layer of hell during the summer to being cold as a mother-in-law’s heart in winter. But today, however, it decided to rain like cats-and-dogs falling onto the city. *BUZZ! BUZZ! BUZZ!* The loud blaring of the alarm clock roused a very sleepy, very grumpy individual from the land of dreams. The person in question reached over and pounded his fist on the clock a few times till it either turned off… or broke. Honestly, he didn’t really care which. Sitting up in bed, stretching his aching and tired limbs, a strapping man of about thirty years groaned as he dreaded the day ahead. His name… James Monroe. James was a rather built man, though most definitely no bodybuilder by any means. He stood about six foot tall, weighed at least 220 pounds. He had pixie-cute black hair that connected down to his chin in a neatly kept goatee. If there’s one thing this man was known for it was maintaining great facial hair. James grumbled incoherently to himself as he slugged his way to the bathroom of his one bedroom apartment. Flipping on the light, James looked at himself in the mirror with a heavy sigh. “Another day of back-breaking labor,” He groaned. James reached into the back pocket of his grey sweatpants, pulling out his iPhone. Pulling up his music list and scrolling through the playlist, he selected a song that perfectly described his life right now. James proceeded to jump into the shower and began preparations for the day ahead. As the warm water cascaded down his body, it was the only time of day where he could actually relax. Afterwards, it was pretty much pure shit. Finishing up his shower, James quickly jumped out and grabbed his toothbrush to brush his teeth. He walked back into his bedroom, dressing himself in an everyday white t-shirt and old, faded jeans. His usual work outfit for when it came to working in the local factory. Slipping on his old clunky brown work boots, James grabbed his coat and headed out the door. Just before he walked away, he turned back to the door and saw an urgent notice from the landlord of his apartment. Final Notice “Spare me…” James groaned to himself. He’d been struggling the past few months to pay the rent. He’d think living by himself in a small apartment would cost less, but he was beyond wrong. Living in a big city like he did, even smaller apartments cost big money. James feared if he didn’t start finding a way to pay the rent soon, he’d be out in the streets within the week. Turns out living on his own didn’t have all the benefits. What else could he really do though? He didn’t have friends to stay with or anyone who’d stay with him to help pay the rent. He didn’t even have a girlfriend, thank God in his eyes. Both his parents passed away years ago and he was an only child meaning he didn’t have any siblings or other relatives to help him out either. James Monroe was truly all alone in this crazy world. “You really pick your favorites, don’t you God?” He asked himself. In any case, James went forth to his job. Getting out to his car, he quickly climbed in and drove toward the iron factory where he worked. As he drove through the rain-flooded streets of the city, he secretly wished his life were different than what it was. All he wanted, more than anything, was a new life where things could finally go his way. <> The radiant celestial body of the sun rose high over the majestic palace of the Crystal Empire. The governing body North of Equestria was in the midst of its most prosperous time ever. After the recent Crystalling, where the Elements of Harmony and three princesses of Equestria stopped the Empire from falling into eternal winter, things were pretty perfect. Speaking of princesses of Equestria, one of them in particular had just woken from a peaceful night’s sleep. Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, or Cadence as she preferred to be called, slowly sat up in her extremely comfortable grand bed in the palace’s royal suite. The Princess of Love yawned cutely, stretching out before turning to look over the other side of the bed. She hoped at least one time this morning to look over and see her husband Shining Armor still snoring away. Those hopes were quickly dashed as she frowned at the sight of an empty space on the bed where Shining Armor should have been. Cadence loved her husband more than life itself; in fact, she risked her own life to save him and all Equestria from Queen Chrysalis on the eve of their wedding. Lately, however, she noticed a significant change in her relationship with her Shiny. It seemed lately he’d been more focused on his duties as Captain of the Royal Guard more than being with her. She understood that his position as Captain required lots of time and energy. But it seemed that’s all he cared about lately. He’d constantly be out all day training troops, patrolling the border, and when he would return home at night he’d be tired he’d go straight to bed. Nowadays, he’d barely even acknowledge her… let alone touch her. Cadence pushed those thoughts from head as she got off the bed and trotted her way to the gigantic walk-in-closet along the far corner of the room. Using her magic, she grabbed a brush off the vanity mirror from the other end of the closet and used it to thoroughly brush her bright pink, purple, and yellow mane. Once that was finished, she also brushed her bright pink coat all the way down to her Crystal Heart cutie mark on her flank. Finally, she used her magic to adorn herself with her signature golden horseshoes, regalia, and tiara. Admiring her reflection in the giant mirror, she smiled brightly. “Perfect!” She declared softly. A baby crying quickly drew her attention away from the mirror. She giggled to herself as she shook her head. Quickly making her way to the adjacent room to her own, she pushed the gigantic doors open and walked in to see her infant daughter, Princess Flurry Heart, thrashing about in her bed. The little alicorn foal seemed incredibly fussy as Cadence made her way to the bed side and lifted Flurry into her waiting arms with her magic. “Shh… it’s okay Flurry,” She soothed. “Mommy’s here now. Are you hungry?” Cadence used her magic to lift a waiting baby bottle from the nearby changing table and brought it toward Flurry’s face. The little foal fussed further and used her own magic to hurl it at the wall shattering it to pieces. Flurry continued to cry as Cadence gently rocked her in her arm to sooth her. “Okay… maybe you need to be changed?” She brought Flurry over to the changing table, proceeding to change her diaper and apply a fresh one. But even after that, Flurry continued to cry and fuss for some reason. Now Cadence started to become concerned. “Perhaps a song could help?” She quickly trotted over to the nearby rocking chair, sitting herself with Flurry in her arms. She used her magic to give Flurry her favorite stuffed snail, Wammy, and she gently rocked the chair back and forth softly singing… Hush little Flurry, don’t you cry Momma’s gonna bake you an apple pie. And if that apple pie’s too cold Momma’s gonna give you a ring of gold… But it didn’t matter how or what she tried; Flurry Heart would not stop crying. Tears ran down her porcelain cheeks from her huge baby blue eyes. Cadence sighing, having no idea what else she could possibly do. Just then, Flurry instantly stopped crying and instead babbled happily as she reached her tiny hooves for the door. Cadence turned toward the doorway and saw the image of Shining Armor dressed in his Captain’s armor entering their room. Sighing happily to herself, she stood up with Flurry and made her way back to their room where Shining Armor was. “Good morning Shining!” Cadence said sweetly. “Morning Cadence!” Shining said quickly. The stallion was running all around the room as though desperately searching for something. Cadence cocked a curious eyebrow as she watched her husband run rampant all around the room. “Looking for something, dear?” She asked. “My chest guard,” Shining responded. “I’ve checked the barracks, the towers, everywhere. I can’t find it anywhere!” “I think I saw it in the bathroom.” “Right!!!” Shining immediately raced to the master bathroom and emerged a moment later as he adjusted his chest guard onto his armor. “Thanks honey,” He smiled. “You’re a true lifesaver.” He quickly raced back out of the room, but Cadence stepped in his way, and he halted in place. “Honey wait!” She spoke desperately. “Before you go, can you please help me with Flurry?” “I wish I could sweetie,” Shining responded quickly. “But I’ve got lots to do today.” “Please Shining,” She begged. “I’ve tried everything to calm her down this morning. But she just kept crying until she saw you. Could you maybe spend just a few minutes with her?” Before Shining could answer, a Pegasus royal guard knocked on the open door to their room causing them to face his direction. “Captain Armor, your presence is requested in the barracks for training,” He said. Shining nodded and the guard quickly disappeared from view. “I’m sorry honey, but I’ve really got to go,” Shining insisted. “I’ll see you and Flurry for dinner.” “You promise?” Cadence asked, pleading. “I won’t be late!” Shining Armor smiled. “Love you!” He quickly kissed Cadence on the cheek, and Flurry on the forehead, before racing away to follow the guard. “Wait Shining—” Cadence called. But her words fell on deaf ears as Shining Armor disappeared around the corner. The moment he’s out of view, Flurry Heart once again burst into tears and cried. This left Cadence all alone once more to deal with a fussy Flurry Heart… along with the day-to-day operations of the Crystal Empire. Cadence sighed to herself, as she looked out the giant window of their room toward Celestia’s glowing sun looming overhead. It seemed lately she was all alone, even around her subjects. She just wished she didn’t have to be… <> James groaned to himself as he labored through another hard day manufacturing iron products at the factory he was employed at. Currently he was melding on a series of iron chains for a shipping company, and it took him forever. If he were completely honest, he absolutely hated working in the factory. However, what else was there really for him to do? He couldn’t attend classes in college because, upon graduating high school, he had to get a job to care for his ailing parents. He worked all day and night at the factory for the past few years just to pay for his parents medical bills. Then when they passed away, he was so depressed that he gave up all desire and will to further his own success. Instead, he stayed at the factory to work full time. A decision he was greatly regretting now. “Attention! Emergency meeting in progress!” The Foreman shouted, over the intercom. “All employees report to the office, pronto.” Though this meant James had to abandon his current objective, he sighed with relief. At least for the time being he finally took a break. Making his way into the foreman’s office, along with the rest of his co-workers, they stood waiting as the foreman entered. “Gentlemen, as you all know I’ve called you here for a matter of upmost importance,” He said. “I only wish this meeting had good news instead of bad.” All his coworkers started to murmur amongst themselves over what this could be about. James just stood with anxious anticipation. “Unfortunately, due to the lack of business we received, our owner Mr. Edwards has decided to sell the factory,” The foreman continued. “I regret to inform you that as of today, we are officially closing our doors.” Everyone began to talk amongst themselves, while James stood there completely shocked. He couldn’t believe what he just heard. Selling the factory? This was the only place he had employment for years, since he was a teenager… and now it was going away. “So what?” James called out. “We’re all out of work? Just like that?” “Afraid so Mr. Monroe,” The foreman nodded regretfully. “I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. It was an honor to work with you all.” Everyone soon dispersed from the area while James stood completely frozen. What was he going to do now? This was his only job where he just managed to scrape enough pay for five years just to pay for his apartment. There was no way he’d be able to pay for it flipping burgers at McDonalds. A hand upon his shoulder snapped him out of his trance and he turned toward his Human Resources manager, Ron Johnson. “I’m real sorry James,” Ron apologized. “I know you’ve been through a lot. Here… the last check you’ll ever need.” Ron handed James his final check and a reassuring pat on the shoulder before leaving. Ever since James started working at the factory, Ron was the only person James liked at his job. Always understanding and helpful in any situation James has been through. If it weren’t for employee-supervisor relationships, he honestly thought of Ron as a good friend… perhaps even a second father. Before leaving, Ron turned back toward James one last time. “I really hope things work out for you buddy,” He said. “Thanks man,” James responded. Ron then headed for the door and into the cold night. James slowly grabbed his goat, along with the rest of his stuff, before heading out. He ran to his car to escape the still pouring rain. As he drove back home, all he could think about was how much his life sucked right now. Finally pulling up in front of his apartment building, James quickly ran inside and walked down the hall to his apartment. When he got there, he noticed all his stuff sitting outside the door in bags. Another sign posted over the last. Eviction Notice James groaned again as he leaned his head against the wall, banging his fist. Just when he thought the day couldn’t possibly get any worse, somehow it finds a way. Now with no job and nowhere to live, there seemed to be nothing he could do now… except leave. James quickly grabbed all his stuff and carried them back to his car. Jumping back into the driver’s seat, James grit his teeth and bashed his head repeatedly into the steering wheel in frustration. He had no idea where to go or what to do, but he knew he needed to figure out something. Lifting his head off the wheel, blood dripping from his bruising head, he started the car and drove down the road with nowhere to go except anywhere that’s far from this city. Pulling out his iPhone again, plugging it into the car, James played the saddest song on his playlist: As he drove down the road, he noticed the visibility quickly became less and less manageable. The rain just poured so hard even his windshield wipers couldn’t give him a clear view of the road. Not to mention the night’s as black as coal, which dropped visibility down to almost zero. James squinted his eyes as possible trying to see where he was going. The sound of a car horn blaring and a blinding light from his left was the last thing James saw as his car was smashed by another. And then… nothing. A New WorldStress was currently at an all-time high for one Princess Cadence, as she sat upon the crystal throne in the grand hall of the palace. The day already took too long for her liking what with having to balance caring for Flurry and handling affairs with the crystal court. Her head ached greatly, as she rubbed her temples with the soft tips of her wings. Currently, she was settling a dispute between two crystal ponies arguing over a land dispute… trying to. One of them, a red Pegasus mare named Ruby Rose, and the other, an emerald-green Unicorn stallion named Spear Mint. Apparently, Miss Rose purchased a piece of property that unknowingly was still under Mr. Mint’s ownership. “I deserve that land!” Ruby argued. “I worked my hooves to the bone for years to finally pay for it. Why should I be cast out just because he found an old deed?” “That old deed officiates the property as my birth right!” Spear Mint argued back. “It’s been handed down by my great grandfather and I hope to do the same for my children!” “If it’s so important, why haven’t you kept up with the mortgage? It’s no wonder the bank repossessed it, ergo allowing me the right to purchase it.” “The bank has had it in for my family for decades. They’ve hatched countless schemes to cheat us off our land, something you can’t possibly understand the frustration!” “ENOUGH!!!” The sudden booming voice caused both ponies to quickly shut up and turn wide-eyed toward a very annoyed Princess Cadence. The alicorn mare slowly stood from her throne and descended the steps till she stands between the two bickering ponies. She looked from one to the other before drawing a deep breath. “You both make valid claims to the property in question,” She informed. “However, under the matter of legality, I must rule in favor to Miss Ruby Rose!” “Yes!” Ruby cheered. “This is outrageous!” Spear Mint argued. “Mr. Mint, I apologize if you’re unhappy with the decision,” Cadence spoke calmly. “But you didneglect paying the mortgage. By law, the bank reserves every right to repossess it. Seeing as Miss Rose purchased the property in her name, she’s now the legal owner.” Spear mint growls under his breath as he stares daggers toward both the princess and the Pegasus mare. “First the bank plots against my family,” He said angrily. “Now the crown turns against us too. I won’t stand for this… you hear me! I’m getting it back whether you permit me or not! Just you wait!” The agitated stallion turned hoof, storming angrily down the grand hall. Cadence drew another breath before facing Ruby Rose, who was much happier now. “Thank you princess,” Ruby thanked her. “Had I lost this case, I’d have been homeless and bankrupt.” “You’re most welcome Miss Rose,” Cadence responded sweetly. “Enjoy it.” Ruby Rose trotted away from the hall and the two royal guards stood watch as they closed the doors behind her. Cadence released an exasperated sigh, as she made her way back to the throne and slumped down in exhaustion. “I love my little ponies with all my heart, but they break me down to the core,” She sighed. The sound of giggling and babbling drew her attention to the side. She saw Flurry Heart in the hooves of her nanny, Mrs. Clean Sweep. The mare served as both nanny and maid in the palace since Cadence and Shining Armor took control of the Crystal Empire. The pearl coated elder unicorn mare, with the feather duster cutie mark, had been such a loyal, wonderful help for Cadence since she had Flurry Heart. It lightened the workload, if only by a little, which is exactly what’s needed. “Your highness, I’m terribly sorry but I must leave immediately,” Clean Sweep said urgently. “Is there a problem?” Cadence asked. “It’s my husband, your highness,” Clean Sweep answered. “He’s been terribly sick as of late and seems to have taken a turn for the worse. I must take him to the hospital before his condition worsens.” “Oh dear!” Cadence gasped. “Then you must go right away. I can handle Flurry Heart for the rest of the day. Thank you Clean Sweep. I hope you husband gets better soon.” “As do I my princess,” Clean Sweep nodded. “Thank you for your kind wishes. I’ve just fed the little princess mere moments ago and she’s fully changed. Now if you excuse me, I really must be off.” Cadence used her magic to lift her daughter from the elderly mare’s hooves, floating her toward her own. Clean Sweep made her down the hall as quickly as she could, leaving Cadence and Flurry to themselves. Candence looked down toward her daughter, who babbled happily as she reached for her mother. Cadence let out a cheerful giggle, as she used one hoof to gently tickle her daughter’s tummy. “Did you have a good day with Mrs. Sweep?” Cadence asked in a baby voice. “Were you on your best behavior?” Flurry giggled, nodding her tiny head as Cadence kept tickling her. “Thankfully, I have a little break from my duties today. What do you say? Want to play?” Flurry kept giggle, as Cadence proceeded to blow raspberries onto her tummy. Just then, a sudden quake in the Earth caused both to go wide-eyed as a blinding flash of light flowed through the windows. Cadence shielded both their eyes with her wings till the light finally faded. When she unfolded her wings back, a few guards rushed into the hall lead by an Earth pony in golden armor, Sergeant Silver Shield. “Princess, are you alright?!” He yelled. “Yes, we’re alright,” Cadence assured him. “What’s happening Sergeant?” “We’re not certain your highness,” Silver Shield responded. “But whatever it was, seems to emulate from the North mountain.” “Is it possible we could be under attack?” Cadence asked worriedly. “We don’t know. Captain Shining Armor is assembling an entourage of guards as we speak to investigate the mountains.” “WHAT?!” She gasped loudly. “Why would he go when we have absolutely no idea what’s caused this? At least he should’ve told me so I can go with him!” She made to leave, but Silver Shield and a few other guards stopped her in her tracks. “My apologies your highness,” He spoke. “But the prince ordered us to keep you here for your own protection.” “I am your Princess! You will do as I command and let me speak with him!” “I would my Princess, but it’s too late. Captain Armor and the guards are heading for the city border at this moment.” Cadence placed Flurry on her back and walked quickly to one of the windows. She looked out below and saw Shining Armor with a squadron of guards approaching the border gates. As much as she wanted to know what’s going on, she also didn’t want her husband risking danger to some unknown force. However, she knows when he has a goal in mind, there’s little to nothing to stop him from protecting the empire. All she could do was lean against the edge of the window, watching them go. “Be safe…” She whispered. <> Pain… The only feeling James Monroe felt, while sprawled upon the ground. As he laid practically motionless, all he could think of was the blaring car horn and the flashing headlights. He’d just been in a terrible car accident, certain that he was on the brink of death. Perhaps probably for the best anyway. After all, he hadn’t much to live for anymore. No job, no house, no family, not even friends. All that was left for him was death. Slowly opening his dark green eyes, he was instantly blinded by a bright white light. He quickly shut them again as he tried to move his sore, aching body. All he was truly able to do for a moment was roll himself onto his back and looked up at the blinding light. “Is this heaven?” He wondered. “Does this explain the white light looming over me?” He blinked his eyes a few times, trying to adjust to the light, and soon enough it started to fade. When it did, he soon realized he was gazing up at the crystal blue sky with the sun shining brightly onto him. Attempting to move some more, he struggled through the pain to sit up. He arched upward and looked around seeing everything around him. Rather than seeing wrecked cars, policeman’s cars and paramedics abound, and crowds of worried people (If any at all), he saw nothing but snowy white landscapes as far as the eye can see. From what he could tell, he seemed to be on some kind of mountain surrounded by nothing but snow. “What the hell?” He asked confused. A sudden rush of cold air struck hard, and quickly he wrapped his arms around himself. “If this is heaven, it could really use a heater,” He said. “And if it’s Hell, then clearly they failed to mention this at Sunday Service.” He rubbed his arms attempting to heat himself. Unfortunately for him, he still wore a t-shirt and jeans so there was hardly anything to protect him from the bitter cold. He realized the longer he stayed where he was, the quicker he’d freeze if he didn’t find warmth. Mustering all his strength, he lifted himself onto his feet and groaned in pain which shot up his entire body. Slowly but surely, he lifted one foot in front of the other as he made his way down the snowy path leading to God knows where. The more he walked, the colder it seemed. His teeth started to chatter from the bitter cold, his skin starting to feel as if it was burning. *Crunch! Crunch! Crunch!* Monroe stopped in his tracks, as the sound of crunching snow caught his ears. His eyes circled the area, but with the blistering winds clouding his vision it proved difficult to see. His body tensed slightly, and not just due to the cold coursing against his exposed skin. The crunching sounds continued, drawing closer… coming to him. He stood on guard waiting, his eyes darting around as if the footsteps are surrounding him. Then all at once, shadowy silhouettes began to form before his eyes. Someone… or somethingwas approaching him, and he had a sinking feeling they had hostile intent. The figure slowly came into view, approaching the man on four legs. But both to the man’s confusion and astonishment it was an equine creature. A shiny, glittery equine with silver armor reminiscent of the roman armor… complete with a red tuff of hairlike material atop. It stood within six feet of the man’s presence and it just… stared at him. “A sparkling war horse?” Monroe muttered, cringing. “Now I know I’m not in America.” Monroe looked side to side wondering if anyone else was around. But all that stood on these grounds thus far aside from Monroe was that small, armored horse, who snorted in the air which flowed through the wintry breeze. “Where’s your rider?” He asked aloud. The creature’s nostrils flared and it’s eyes went wide. And all at once, a spear hovered over its head as the pony grit its teeth. While wide-eyed over the weapon pointing at his face, what really drew the man’s attention was the unicorn horn sticking through the exposed area of his helmet. “Now I know I’m in hell…” Monroe muttered. With a mighty whinny, the guard charged toward the man and lunged it’s spear to pierce him. Remarkably, Monroe acted quickly… swirled past the spear thrust past him and actually elbowed the pony across the jaw. The crystal pony was taken aback, stumbling about as his eyes swirled. Then he fell face-first into the snow… alive but unconscious. And the man stood there with his elbow out, breathing heavily. “Yeah… that was a bad idea pal,” Monroe spoke. Suddenly, shouts and jeers drew the man’s attention as an army of the guard ponies raced toward the human. Plenty of them unicorns but to his surprise there were ponies with wings flying toward him. The majority of them wielded spears with intent to bring him down while a pair carried a heavy net and stretched it out to catch him. Monroe stepped back till he bumped into a tree as the two ponies aimed to ensnare him with the net. Within a few steps close, Monroe ducked to the side and the net caught the tree instead, propelling the two ponies around… and smacked into each other knocking them out cold. A yell made the man quickly turn as an Earth pony swung its spear with his fore hooves. The man swayed side to side, evading the spear until the pony charged with a swing… and Monroe caught the pony and hurled him over his shoulder knocking him flat on his back. Grabbing the spear, he blocked an incoming assault by another guard. Their blunt sides of the spear collided with each strike for a few seconds. Until eventually Monroe broke his opponent’s spear in half with a powerful swing and raised the blunt end of the spear up the guard’s muzzle. He raised the pony higher and higher and higher… and removed it just before the pony sneezed. “AHCHOO!!!” The guard sneezed. “Gesundheit,” Monroe replied. “Thanks…” The guard sighed. Monroe performed a double take for a moment before he used the blunt side of his own spear and smacked him on top the guard’s head. His ears rang as his helmet shook and then he fell to the side onto the snow. Monroe looked at the spear, seeing it’s broken and hurled the blade side into the snow. A cry from the sky made him look up as a Pegasus guard lunged to catch him. Rolling his eyes, Monroe crouched and prepared himself. When the guard was in reach, he grabbed the guard and rolled backward landing on top of the shocked guard. He looked up as another Pegasus descended from above with a mighty shout. Monroe rolled aside just as the guard landed… smashing his colleague right in the stomach knocking the wind out. “WHY?!?!?!?!” The guard gasped. “Oh, I’m so sorry—” The other apologized. “HI-YAH!!!!” Monroe shouted. With a swift spin kick, he struck the distracted guard up the side of his head and knocked him over. Monroe groaned as he clutched his back, as if all the action were putting a strain on muscles he hadn’t used. But he kept his arms up and looked around, as he could see silhouettes of other guards surrounding him. “Come on! Come on!” Monroe beckoned, throwing his arms. “I’ll take you on one-by-one! Come on! Gimme your best shot and get it over with!!!* *WHAM!!!* A buck struck behind Monroe, sending him fumbling forward… *BAM!!!* Monroe’s head struck another tree, he slowly walked backward clutching his now bruised forehead. He stood on his feet for a moment before his eyes started falling back. “Ow…” And then at last, James Monroe fell backward onto the snow as Shining Armor looked toward the defensive man, breathing heavily as he lowered his hind legs. After making a successful move, he slowly made his toward James, now lying unconscious on the snow-covered ground. While the Captain helped some of his fallen comrades to their feet, the rest of the pony guards cautiously approached Monroe and stood over him. At last, Shining Armor approached his entire guard and looked down curiously toward the mysterious creature. “What in the name of Equestria is this thing?” He asked. One of the guards prodded the man with the blunt end of his spear. He received no reaction due to the man being knocked out. “Looks like some form of hairless monkey, captain,” The guard assumed. “Maybe it’s a yeti,” Another suggested. “But I never heard of any that comes this far.” Shining Armor stepped forward slowly, kneeling down to examine the creature closely. Gently reaching out a hoof to tap the creature on the side, he observed the milky white flesh covering its body even the strange clothes it wore. “I’m not sure what this thing is,” Shining Armor broke the silence. “But we can’t leave it here and risk it regaining its strength… probably to come down the mountain and terrorize the empire. I suggest we bring it back to the palace and throw in the dungeon. We’ll decide what to do with it there.” “Yes Captain,” The guards agreed. A few unicorn guards conjured their magic to lift the man off the snowy ground and wrapped the net over him. With the man in custody, they levitated him high over their heads and marched forward with Shining Armor taking the lead. The guards strolled down the mountain towards the Crystal Palace, with no idea what this thing was or even how it ended up here. He knew the landscapes of the empire and all the creatures inhabiting it, but this… this beast certainly was a new case if had ever seen one. One thing was absolutely certain, it was clearly intelligent to dodge their attacks and fight back. Shining Armor would be lying if he did not admit that the creature’s skills are impressive. But, at the same time, such skill makes this creature a dangerous threat to any pony around. Least now it won’t be able to hurt any pony soon as they have it locked in a cell. Then after that… who knows? CapturedConsciousness slowly seeped its way back into the subconscious mind of one James Monroe. His green eyes slowly opened after taking that strike to the head. Boy, what a weird dream he’d had the night before. He must’ve either gotten ‘really’ drunk after losing his job before passing out or went home and sulked all night while God’s cruel tricks tormented him into psychological exhaustion… probably both. Either way, he gingerly lifted his hand to rub his now aching head as he slowly sat up. “Looks like the prisoner is waking up.” “What the hay even is it?” “I don’t know, but Captain Armor must be notified immediately.” James groaned as his head pounded further. He must still be drunk if he’s hearing voices in his head. When he stood fully upright, he tried clearing his vision so he could see the familiar surroundings of his bedroom. Only when he fully regained vision, he didn’t see any of that. The only sight greeting him were stone walls all around him. James quickly sobered up and scrambled to his feet as he noticed the jagged rocks that littered the cave-like area he currently resided in. “What the hell?” He gasped in shock. He slowly started to back up before he stopped in his tracks the moment he felt himself bump into something. Whatever it was made a sound resembling crashing into something metallic. When he turned around, he saw a door made entirely of old iron bars blocking his way. “Oh shit…” He cursed himself. He quickly ran forward, grasped the iron bars of the door, and started rattling and pulling trying to free himself. “Help!” He shouted. “Is anybody out there? Please, I need help! There’s been some horrible mistake! I’m not supposed to be here!” The sound of a big iron door creaking open, then slamming shut, made James quickly snap his mouth shut as a shadowy silhouette slowly approached him. Until eventually, the sight of a purple-coated miniature horse wearing some form of silvery armor appeared before him and James’ eyes went wide with shock. What was even more shocking about this creature was the fact its entire form seemed to glimmer and gleam like diamonds. “Shut your muzzle prisoner!” The pony snapped. Okay, ‘that’ did it for James. It was one thing to see a mystical-looking horse with a shiny gleaming coat and armor. Not it just actually spoke English. It shocked James so much he actually lost his footing and landed flat on his ass as he scooted away from the gate. “What the hell?!” He yelled. “How are you talking?! Horses can’t talk! Stay the hell away from me!” “Yell all you want prisoner. But until our captain and princess determine what to do with you, you’ll remain locked in this cell. I’d get comfortable if I were you because you might be here for a long time.” The pony guard turned heel and proceeded back from whence it came. The very same iron door opened and closed, the impact echoing across the cave. This left James sitting on the cold ground in complete shock, unable to make heads or toes of what he had just seen. “I’m dreaming…” He told himself. “I must be. I’ll just close my eyes and when I open them up, I’ll be back in my bed, in that shitty apartment.” James closed his eyes so tight it actually hurt to dos o, as he concentrated on waking up and finding himself back in the familiar surroundings of his everyday life. When his eyes snapped open again, all his eyes met were the same stone walls and barred door. “Shit!” He muttered. “Okay, I’ll just pinch myself or slap myself. That should do it.” So James closed his eyes once more and gave his arm a particularly hard pinch to the point it actually discolored his skin with a bruise. Opening his eyes, nothing had changed at all. He closed his eyes again and this time gave his face a few hard slaps. Not only did it ‘not’ work, but it left his cheeks sore, and an ache swelled in his head. “FUCK!!!” <> Meanwhile, high above the dungeon in the Crystal Palace, Princess Cadence sat on her throne holding Flurry Heart close to her waiting in anticipation for a report. About a few hours prior, a great earthquake and a beam of light landed somewhere in the North Mountain. This drew her husband and her troops to investigate what happened. Since then, she’d been pacing around the throne room until finally her sore hooves finally couldn’t take it anymore and she needed to sit down. Flurry had since fallen asleep in her hooves, which made it much easier for her to think. Just then, the doors to the throne room flung open and in walked none other than Shining Armor, flanked by two other Crystal guards. Cadence placed the sleeping Flurry on her back, quickly trotted up, and threw her hooves around her husband, thankful for his safe return. “Oh thank Celestia you’re alright,” She spoke gratefully. “What happened in the North Mountain? Were you able to find out what happened?” Shining gently grabbed his wife’s hooves and unwrapped them from his neck. “Yes dear,” He answered. “We found out what happened.” “Well, what was it?” “We’re still not entirely sure how it happened exactly. But when we arrived on the mountain, we encountered some strange creature.” This caused Cadence to cock her head slightly to the side in curiosity. “What kind of strange creature?” She asked. “We’re not sure yet,” Shining responded. “We assumed it was some sort of yeti, but it doesn’t have fur like most do.” “Could it possibly be a rogue changeling in disguise?” “Highly unlikely. If it were, it surely would’ve reassumed its original form by now being locked in an anti-magic cell.” Cadence tapped a hoof against her chin, pondering over what this creature could possibly be. Never before had she ever heard of a creature in the mountains before. The very thought of it both intrigued and terrified her. “Is it possible it could be some sort of alien?” She asked. “I don’t know honey,” Shining shook his head. “Thankfully, you have nothing to worry about. We have it locked in the dungeon and that’s where it’ll stay.” The more this idea went through Cadence’s head, the more she desired to figure all this out. She wanted to make sense of it all and understand what’s truly going on. “I wish to see it.” “What?!” Shining exclaimed loudly. “No way Cadence! That thing attacked two guards before we finally subdued it. It’s clearly dangerous and I don’t want my wife going anywhere near it!” “I appreciate your thoughtful concern, dear,” Cadence responded. “But I am a full grown mare who can take care of herself. Not to mention I am an alicorn princess. There’s nothing it could possibly throw at me that I won’t be able to handle.” Cadence made a walk by Shining Armor, who quickly blocked her path and stood right in front of her. “No Cadence! I absolutely forbid it!” This caught Cadence by surprise, not to mention it angered her a bit. Who is he to tell her ‘I forbid it!’? Here she is wanting to maintain peace in the empire, yet he has the nerve to talk down to her like she’s a disobedient child scolded by an angry parent. “Excuse me?” Cadence snipped back. “I said I forbid it,” Shining responded sternly. “I won’t allow you to go down there.” “Since when do you get to order me what to do and what not to do?!” Cadence snapped. “When I’m looking out for the safety and well-being of my wife!” “Oh, really? Because a ‘normal’ caring husband wouldn’t talk down to me nor dictate what I’m allowed to do!” From the sidelines, a few crystal guards watched the ensuing argument with wide eyes which showcased how awkward it was to witness this. “I refuse to stand idly by and let you wander down there with that thing alone,” Shining spoke, more calmly. “I can’t afford to lose you before our marriage… I just can’t!” “Them come with me if you must,” Cadence responded. “Either way, I’m going down there. You can’t stop me.” Shining took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He really didn’t want to argue with Cadence. Celestia knows she already has much on her plate as it is with other situations within the empire. Plus, this was his ‘wife’, the mare he promised to love, cherish, and whatever they do they’d do it together. With a heavy sigh, he nodded his head just a little. “Alright, you win,” He relented. “But I am only going down with you only in case this thing tries to attack.” Cadence gave no response, merely walked around her husband in a huff. She was still pretty mad at him; her face gave it away entirely. But right now, she couldn’t focus on her anger. She made her way out of the throne room with her husband following behind along with a few other guards for additional protection. <> Back in the dungeons, the sound of something slamming hard into metal filled the caves. James Monroe currently slammed his shoulder against the cell door hoping either he’ll bust his way out or at the very least loosen the bars. He’d been doing it for the past ten minutes now, his shoulder and arm becoming increasingly sore from slamming against the hard iron so much. Finally, he slumped onto the ground with his back against the door as he massaged his aching shoulder. “Goddammit!” He cursed. “How the fuck am I getting out of here?” Just then, the sound of the big iron door opening caught his attention and he quickly scampered back to his feet. In walked a few more of the sparkling horse guards, this time carrying spears pointed directly at him. “So, what are you going to do now?” James asked. “Kill me?” One guard stepped forward and held his spear toward James’ neck, causing the man to step back a little. “I didn’t mean literally…” From behind the two guards walked another pair of mini horses, thought these were more interesting. The first one was a white stallion with a man both dark-and-light blue with some kind of shield tattoo on its rear. The second was clearly female seeing it was slightly smaller and slimmer than the other. Her coat was a bubble gum pink, a tiny gold crown sat in her mane which flowed with a mix of pink, purple, and yellow. She, like the others, also had a mark on the hindquarters yet hers was a crystal heart. She stepped forward toward the cell wall and looked toward James with piercing magenta eyes. “Can… you… speak?” She asked calmly. James just stared at her in awe, for a moment or two. Till finally, he snapped back to reality with a shake of his head. “Yes… I can talk,” He answered. “Course I’m wondering how the hell ‘you’ can talk. Where I’m from, horses don’t speak at all.” “Oh, we’re ponies, actually,” Cadence giggled. “It’s a common mistake. Anyways, where exactly are ‘you’ from?” James hesitated over answering that question because he was uncertain how to answer or for that matter if they’d believe him. The entire situation was completely messed up and he wasn’t exactly sure what to do. He was still certain he was either dead or drunk, but if that were the case, he wouldn’t be hurting from all the physical stuff he was doing. Perhaps he truly did get teleported to some strange world for all he knew. In that case, that made him some illegal alien in a strange land and that certainly didn’t make things any better. “The princess asked you a question, beast!” One guard yelled. “Patience Corporal Amethyst,” Cadence spoke soothingly. Finally, James snapped out of his thoughts long enough to form an answer. “Let’s just say I’m from another world,” He spoke cautiously. “A world called… ‘Earth’.” “Another world you say?” Cadence questioned. “Would that make you an alien?” “I… guess so?” James chuckled nervously. Cadence couldn’t help but giggle a bit, much to the chagrin of her husband. “Do you have a name, sir?” “Monroe,” James responded. “James Monroe.” “Well then, James Monroe, I personally like to be the first to welcome you to the Crystal Empire. I am Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, but you may call me ‘Cadence’ for short.” Cadence extended a hoof through the iron bars of the cell door in a gesture of greeting, much to James’ surprise. He had to admit for meeting an alien creature from another world, just landing out of nowhere in her own home, she was taking this remarkably well. Hesitantly, he reached out, gently took her small form in his hand, and shook it slowly. In doing so, he couldn’t help but admire just how smooth and soft the hoof was. At that moment, the white stallion in full armor beside her decided to interject himself into the conversation. “Captain Shining Armor of the Crystal Empire Royal Guard,” He stated coldly. “I’m the one who lead the search party you attacked in the mountain.” This caused James to face the stallion like he was crazy. “I attacked?” He repeated. “You were the ones who attacked first! Your ‘search party’ charged at me, tried to impale me with its horn, what did you think was going to happen?!” “Shut your mouth creature!” Shining snapped. “You invade our land, attack our guards, and you have the nerve to feign innocence?” “That is enough Shining!” Cadence yelled. Reluctantly, Shining Armor stepped back from the cell while staring daggers at James, who in turn was more than happy to return. “You have to forgive my husband Mr. Monroe,” Cadence replied. “We’ve had some ‘history’ regarding attacks against our own race for so long, ‘some’ of us started to get paranoid.” “What happens now?” James asked. “Well that all depends. Do you have anywhere to stay while you’re here?” “Considering I just landed along a frozen mountain before being thrown in jail… nope, I wouldn’t think so.” Cadence tapped a hoof to her chin as she thought for a moment. “Well then, it’s decided,” She declared smiling. “You’ll stay here in the Crystal Palace.” “What?!” Shining asked in shock. James, confused, looked around at the cell he was currently occupying. “Aren’t I already?” He asked, gesturing to the bars. “Oh goodness no!” Cadence shook her head. “You can’t possibly stay here in the dungeon. You’re welcome to stay in one of the hundreds of guest rooms we have in the palace.” James couldn’t help but smile slightly. The prospect of leaving this cold dungeon and finally get himself an actual bed to sleep in certainly sounded nice. Meanwhile, Shining grabbed his wife by the forehoof and drew her off to the side to speak with her. “Cadence, I love you, but are you insane?!” He whisper-shouted. “Why offer that thing to stay here?” “What would you prefer I do?” Cadence whispered back. “Send the poor thing out into the cold?” “If that means one less threat of Equestria to worry about, sounds good to me.” Cadence glared toward her husband, as an intense stare-down took place. “What is with you lately?” She asked. “Whatever happened to the stallion I married? The one who was so kind-hearted to all?” “He’s still right here!” Shining answered. “But even he doesn’t think it’s wise to allow a potentially dangerous alien creature to roam free! You weren’t even there when he lashed out!” “He doesn’t seem dangerous to me; in fact, he seems friendly,” Cadence shot back. “He’s a stranger from a foreign land, all alone, with nowhere to go. As the Princess of Love, I won’t turn my back on some pony in need of help. He’s staying here and that is final!” Shining just huffed in irritation before leaving the dungeon angrily. Cadence sighed in frustration before regaining her composure and walked back to the cell. “So what do you say Mr. Monroe?” She asked. “I’d say… what are we waiting for?” He joked. Cadence giggled at his enthusiasm before cueing the guard to open the cell door. Slightly hesitant at first, the guard grabbed the key with his magic and hovered it over to open the gate. James stepped from the cell and stretched his limbs before facing Cadence, who smiled at him. “Shall we then?” She asked. “Lead the way,” James nodded. Cadence proceeded to lead James from the cell block while the two other guards followed closely behind, never taking their eyes off him for a second.
Bad DayThe sky was black and cold on a dreary, rainy fall day in the city of Minneapolis. The capital city of the great state of Minnesota on a daily basis could only be described as a bustling metropolis. Gigantic buildings, fantastic restaurants, and people crossing the street as far as the eye could see. The one thing that really sucked about Minneapolis, actually Minnesota in general, was the weather could be a real shit show. It could be hot as the seventh layer of hell during the summer to being cold as a mother-in-law’s heart in winter. But today, however, it decided to rain like cats-and-dogs falling onto the city. *BUZZ! BUZZ! BUZZ!* The loud blaring of the alarm clock roused a very sleepy, very grumpy individual from the land of dreams. The person in question reached over and pounded his fist on the clock a few times till it either turned off… or broke. Honestly, he didn’t really care which. Sitting up in bed, stretching his aching and tired limbs, a strapping man of about thirty years groaned as he dreaded the day ahead. His name… James Monroe. James was a rather built man, though most definitely no bodybuilder by any means. He stood about six foot tall, weighed at least 220 pounds. He had pixie-cute black hair that connected down to his chin in a neatly kept goatee. If there’s one thing this man was known for it was maintaining great facial hair. James grumbled incoherently to himself as he slugged his way to the bathroom of his one bedroom apartment. Flipping on the light, James looked at himself in the mirror with a heavy sigh. “Another day of back-breaking labor,” He groaned. James reached into the back pocket of his grey sweatpants, pulling out his iPhone. Pulling up his music list and scrolling through the playlist, he selected a song that perfectly described his life right now. James proceeded to jump into the shower and began preparations for the day ahead. As the warm water cascaded down his body, it was the only time of day where he could actually relax. Afterwards, it was pretty much pure shit. Finishing up his shower, James quickly jumped out and grabbed his toothbrush to brush his teeth. He walked back into his bedroom, dressing himself in an everyday white t-shirt and old, faded jeans. His usual work outfit for when it came to working in the local factory. Slipping on his old clunky brown work boots, James grabbed his coat and headed out the door. Just before he walked away, he turned back to the door and saw an urgent notice from the landlord of his apartment. Final Notice “Spare me…” James groaned to himself. He’d been struggling the past few months to pay the rent. He’d think living by himself in a small apartment would cost less, but he was beyond wrong. Living in a big city like he did, even smaller apartments cost big money. James feared if he didn’t start finding a way to pay the rent soon, he’d be out in the streets within the week. Turns out living on his own didn’t have all the benefits. What else could he really do though? He didn’t have friends to stay with or anyone who’d stay with him to help pay the rent. He didn’t even have a girlfriend, thank God in his eyes. Both his parents passed away years ago and he was an only child meaning he didn’t have any siblings or other relatives to help him out either. James Monroe was truly all alone in this crazy world. “You really pick your favorites, don’t you God?” He asked himself. In any case, James went forth to his job. Getting out to his car, he quickly climbed in and drove toward the iron factory where he worked. As he drove through the rain-flooded streets of the city, he secretly wished his life were different than what it was. All he wanted, more than anything, was a new life where things could finally go his way. <> The radiant celestial body of the sun rose high over the majestic palace of the Crystal Empire. The governing body North of Equestria was in the midst of its most prosperous time ever. After the recent Crystalling, where the Elements of Harmony and three princesses of Equestria stopped the Empire from falling into eternal winter, things were pretty perfect. Speaking of princesses of Equestria, one of them in particular had just woken from a peaceful night’s sleep. Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, or Cadence as she preferred to be called, slowly sat up in her extremely comfortable grand bed in the palace’s royal suite. The Princess of Love yawned cutely, stretching out before turning to look over the other side of the bed. She hoped at least one time this morning to look over and see her husband Shining Armor still snoring away. Those hopes were quickly dashed as she frowned at the sight of an empty space on the bed where Shining Armor should have been. Cadence loved her husband more than life itself; in fact, she risked her own life to save him and all Equestria from Queen Chrysalis on the eve of their wedding. Lately, however, she noticed a significant change in her relationship with her Shiny. It seemed lately he’d been more focused on his duties as Captain of the Royal Guard more than being with her. She understood that his position as Captain required lots of time and energy. But it seemed that’s all he cared about lately. He’d constantly be out all day training troops, patrolling the border, and when he would return home at night he’d be tired he’d go straight to bed. Nowadays, he’d barely even acknowledge her… let alone touch her. Cadence pushed those thoughts from head as she got off the bed and trotted her way to the gigantic walk-in-closet along the far corner of the room. Using her magic, she grabbed a brush off the vanity mirror from the other end of the closet and used it to thoroughly brush her bright pink, purple, and yellow mane. Once that was finished, she also brushed her bright pink coat all the way down to her Crystal Heart cutie mark on her flank. Finally, she used her magic to adorn herself with her signature golden horseshoes, regalia, and tiara. Admiring her reflection in the giant mirror, she smiled brightly. “Perfect!” She declared softly. A baby crying quickly drew her attention away from the mirror. She giggled to herself as she shook her head. Quickly making her way to the adjacent room to her own, she pushed the gigantic doors open and walked in to see her infant daughter, Princess Flurry Heart, thrashing about in her bed. The little alicorn foal seemed incredibly fussy as Cadence made her way to the bed side and lifted Flurry into her waiting arms with her magic. “Shh… it’s okay Flurry,” She soothed. “Mommy’s here now. Are you hungry?” Cadence used her magic to lift a waiting baby bottle from the nearby changing table and brought it toward Flurry’s face. The little foal fussed further and used her own magic to hurl it at the wall shattering it to pieces. Flurry continued to cry as Cadence gently rocked her in her arm to sooth her. “Okay… maybe you need to be changed?” She brought Flurry over to the changing table, proceeding to change her diaper and apply a fresh one. But even after that, Flurry continued to cry and fuss for some reason. Now Cadence started to become concerned. “Perhaps a song could help?” She quickly trotted over to the nearby rocking chair, sitting herself with Flurry in her arms. She used her magic to give Flurry her favorite stuffed snail, Wammy, and she gently rocked the chair back and forth softly singing… Hush little Flurry, don’t you cry Momma’s gonna bake you an apple pie. And if that apple pie’s too cold Momma’s gonna give you a ring of gold… But it didn’t matter how or what she tried; Flurry Heart would not stop crying. Tears ran down her porcelain cheeks from her huge baby blue eyes. Cadence sighing, having no idea what else she could possibly do. Just then, Flurry instantly stopped crying and instead babbled happily as she reached her tiny hooves for the door. Cadence turned toward the doorway and saw the image of Shining Armor dressed in his Captain’s armor entering their room. Sighing happily to herself, she stood up with Flurry and made her way back to their room where Shining Armor was. “Good morning Shining!” Cadence said sweetly. “Morning Cadence!” Shining said quickly. The stallion was running all around the room as though desperately searching for something. Cadence cocked a curious eyebrow as she watched her husband run rampant all around the room. “Looking for something, dear?” She asked. “My chest guard,” Shining responded. “I’ve checked the barracks, the towers, everywhere. I can’t find it anywhere!” “I think I saw it in the bathroom.” “Right!!!” Shining immediately raced to the master bathroom and emerged a moment later as he adjusted his chest guard onto his armor. “Thanks honey,” He smiled. “You’re a true lifesaver.” He quickly raced back out of the room, but Cadence stepped in his way, and he halted in place. “Honey wait!” She spoke desperately. “Before you go, can you please help me with Flurry?” “I wish I could sweetie,” Shining responded quickly. “But I’ve got lots to do today.” “Please Shining,” She begged. “I’ve tried everything to calm her down this morning. But she just kept crying until she saw you. Could you maybe spend just a few minutes with her?” Before Shining could answer, a Pegasus royal guard knocked on the open door to their room causing them to face his direction. “Captain Armor, your presence is requested in the barracks for training,” He said. Shining nodded and the guard quickly disappeared from view. “I’m sorry honey, but I’ve really got to go,” Shining insisted. “I’ll see you and Flurry for dinner.” “You promise?” Cadence asked, pleading. “I won’t be late!” Shining Armor smiled. “Love you!” He quickly kissed Cadence on the cheek, and Flurry on the forehead, before racing away to follow the guard. “Wait Shining—” Cadence called. But her words fell on deaf ears as Shining Armor disappeared around the corner. The moment he’s out of view, Flurry Heart once again burst into tears and cried. This left Cadence all alone once more to deal with a fussy Flurry Heart… along with the day-to-day operations of the Crystal Empire. Cadence sighed to herself, as she looked out the giant window of their room toward Celestia’s glowing sun looming overhead. It seemed lately she was all alone, even around her subjects. She just wished she didn’t have to be… <> James groaned to himself as he labored through another hard day manufacturing iron products at the factory he was employed at. Currently he was melding on a series of iron chains for a shipping company, and it took him forever. If he were completely honest, he absolutely hated working in the factory. However, what else was there really for him to do? He couldn’t attend classes in college because, upon graduating high school, he had to get a job to care for his ailing parents. He worked all day and night at the factory for the past few years just to pay for his parents medical bills. Then when they passed away, he was so depressed that he gave up all desire and will to further his own success. Instead, he stayed at the factory to work full time. A decision he was greatly regretting now. “Attention! Emergency meeting in progress!” The Foreman shouted, over the intercom. “All employees report to the office, pronto.” Though this meant James had to abandon his current objective, he sighed with relief. At least for the time being he finally took a break. Making his way into the foreman’s office, along with the rest of his co-workers, they stood waiting as the foreman entered. “Gentlemen, as you all know I’ve called you here for a matter of upmost importance,” He said. “I only wish this meeting had good news instead of bad.” All his coworkers started to murmur amongst themselves over what this could be about. James just stood with anxious anticipation. “Unfortunately, due to the lack of business we received, our owner Mr. Edwards has decided to sell the factory,” The foreman continued. “I regret to inform you that as of today, we are officially closing our doors.” Everyone began to talk amongst themselves, while James stood there completely shocked. He couldn’t believe what he just heard. Selling the factory? This was the only place he had employment for years, since he was a teenager… and now it was going away. “So what?” James called out. “We’re all out of work? Just like that?” “Afraid so Mr. Monroe,” The foreman nodded regretfully. “I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. It was an honor to work with you all.” Everyone soon dispersed from the area while James stood completely frozen. What was he going to do now? This was his only job where he just managed to scrape enough pay for five years just to pay for his apartment. There was no way he’d be able to pay for it flipping burgers at McDonalds. A hand upon his shoulder snapped him out of his trance and he turned toward his Human Resources manager, Ron Johnson. “I’m real sorry James,” Ron apologized. “I know you’ve been through a lot. Here… the last check you’ll ever need.” Ron handed James his final check and a reassuring pat on the shoulder before leaving. Ever since James started working at the factory, Ron was the only person James liked at his job. Always understanding and helpful in any situation James has been through. If it weren’t for employee-supervisor relationships, he honestly thought of Ron as a good friend… perhaps even a second father. Before leaving, Ron turned back toward James one last time. “I really hope things work out for you buddy,” He said. “Thanks man,” James responded. Ron then headed for the door and into the cold night. James slowly grabbed his goat, along with the rest of his stuff, before heading out. He ran to his car to escape the still pouring rain. As he drove back home, all he could think about was how much his life sucked right now. Finally pulling up in front of his apartment building, James quickly ran inside and walked down the hall to his apartment. When he got there, he noticed all his stuff sitting outside the door in bags. Another sign posted over the last. Eviction Notice James groaned again as he leaned his head against the wall, banging his fist. Just when he thought the day couldn’t possibly get any worse, somehow it finds a way. Now with no job and nowhere to live, there seemed to be nothing he could do now… except leave. James quickly grabbed all his stuff and carried them back to his car. Jumping back into the driver’s seat, James grit his teeth and bashed his head repeatedly into the steering wheel in frustration. He had no idea where to go or what to do, but he knew he needed to figure out something. Lifting his head off the wheel, blood dripping from his bruising head, he started the car and drove down the road with nowhere to go except anywhere that’s far from this city. Pulling out his iPhone again, plugging it into the car, James played the saddest song on his playlist: As he drove down the road, he noticed the visibility quickly became less and less manageable. The rain just poured so hard even his windshield wipers couldn’t give him a clear view of the road. Not to mention the night’s as black as coal, which dropped visibility down to almost zero. James squinted his eyes as possible trying to see where he was going. The sound of a car horn blaring and a blinding light from his left was the last thing James saw as his car was smashed by another. And then… nothing.
A New WorldStress was currently at an all-time high for one Princess Cadence, as she sat upon the crystal throne in the grand hall of the palace. The day already took too long for her liking what with having to balance caring for Flurry and handling affairs with the crystal court. Her head ached greatly, as she rubbed her temples with the soft tips of her wings. Currently, she was settling a dispute between two crystal ponies arguing over a land dispute… trying to. One of them, a red Pegasus mare named Ruby Rose, and the other, an emerald-green Unicorn stallion named Spear Mint. Apparently, Miss Rose purchased a piece of property that unknowingly was still under Mr. Mint’s ownership. “I deserve that land!” Ruby argued. “I worked my hooves to the bone for years to finally pay for it. Why should I be cast out just because he found an old deed?” “That old deed officiates the property as my birth right!” Spear Mint argued back. “It’s been handed down by my great grandfather and I hope to do the same for my children!” “If it’s so important, why haven’t you kept up with the mortgage? It’s no wonder the bank repossessed it, ergo allowing me the right to purchase it.” “The bank has had it in for my family for decades. They’ve hatched countless schemes to cheat us off our land, something you can’t possibly understand the frustration!” “ENOUGH!!!” The sudden booming voice caused both ponies to quickly shut up and turn wide-eyed toward a very annoyed Princess Cadence. The alicorn mare slowly stood from her throne and descended the steps till she stands between the two bickering ponies. She looked from one to the other before drawing a deep breath. “You both make valid claims to the property in question,” She informed. “However, under the matter of legality, I must rule in favor to Miss Ruby Rose!” “Yes!” Ruby cheered. “This is outrageous!” Spear Mint argued. “Mr. Mint, I apologize if you’re unhappy with the decision,” Cadence spoke calmly. “But you didneglect paying the mortgage. By law, the bank reserves every right to repossess it. Seeing as Miss Rose purchased the property in her name, she’s now the legal owner.” Spear mint growls under his breath as he stares daggers toward both the princess and the Pegasus mare. “First the bank plots against my family,” He said angrily. “Now the crown turns against us too. I won’t stand for this… you hear me! I’m getting it back whether you permit me or not! Just you wait!” The agitated stallion turned hoof, storming angrily down the grand hall. Cadence drew another breath before facing Ruby Rose, who was much happier now. “Thank you princess,” Ruby thanked her. “Had I lost this case, I’d have been homeless and bankrupt.” “You’re most welcome Miss Rose,” Cadence responded sweetly. “Enjoy it.” Ruby Rose trotted away from the hall and the two royal guards stood watch as they closed the doors behind her. Cadence released an exasperated sigh, as she made her way back to the throne and slumped down in exhaustion. “I love my little ponies with all my heart, but they break me down to the core,” She sighed. The sound of giggling and babbling drew her attention to the side. She saw Flurry Heart in the hooves of her nanny, Mrs. Clean Sweep. The mare served as both nanny and maid in the palace since Cadence and Shining Armor took control of the Crystal Empire. The pearl coated elder unicorn mare, with the feather duster cutie mark, had been such a loyal, wonderful help for Cadence since she had Flurry Heart. It lightened the workload, if only by a little, which is exactly what’s needed. “Your highness, I’m terribly sorry but I must leave immediately,” Clean Sweep said urgently. “Is there a problem?” Cadence asked. “It’s my husband, your highness,” Clean Sweep answered. “He’s been terribly sick as of late and seems to have taken a turn for the worse. I must take him to the hospital before his condition worsens.” “Oh dear!” Cadence gasped. “Then you must go right away. I can handle Flurry Heart for the rest of the day. Thank you Clean Sweep. I hope you husband gets better soon.” “As do I my princess,” Clean Sweep nodded. “Thank you for your kind wishes. I’ve just fed the little princess mere moments ago and she’s fully changed. Now if you excuse me, I really must be off.” Cadence used her magic to lift her daughter from the elderly mare’s hooves, floating her toward her own. Clean Sweep made her down the hall as quickly as she could, leaving Cadence and Flurry to themselves. Candence looked down toward her daughter, who babbled happily as she reached for her mother. Cadence let out a cheerful giggle, as she used one hoof to gently tickle her daughter’s tummy. “Did you have a good day with Mrs. Sweep?” Cadence asked in a baby voice. “Were you on your best behavior?” Flurry giggled, nodding her tiny head as Cadence kept tickling her. “Thankfully, I have a little break from my duties today. What do you say? Want to play?” Flurry kept giggle, as Cadence proceeded to blow raspberries onto her tummy. Just then, a sudden quake in the Earth caused both to go wide-eyed as a blinding flash of light flowed through the windows. Cadence shielded both their eyes with her wings till the light finally faded. When she unfolded her wings back, a few guards rushed into the hall lead by an Earth pony in golden armor, Sergeant Silver Shield. “Princess, are you alright?!” He yelled. “Yes, we’re alright,” Cadence assured him. “What’s happening Sergeant?” “We’re not certain your highness,” Silver Shield responded. “But whatever it was, seems to emulate from the North mountain.” “Is it possible we could be under attack?” Cadence asked worriedly. “We don’t know. Captain Shining Armor is assembling an entourage of guards as we speak to investigate the mountains.” “WHAT?!” She gasped loudly. “Why would he go when we have absolutely no idea what’s caused this? At least he should’ve told me so I can go with him!” She made to leave, but Silver Shield and a few other guards stopped her in her tracks. “My apologies your highness,” He spoke. “But the prince ordered us to keep you here for your own protection.” “I am your Princess! You will do as I command and let me speak with him!” “I would my Princess, but it’s too late. Captain Armor and the guards are heading for the city border at this moment.” Cadence placed Flurry on her back and walked quickly to one of the windows. She looked out below and saw Shining Armor with a squadron of guards approaching the border gates. As much as she wanted to know what’s going on, she also didn’t want her husband risking danger to some unknown force. However, she knows when he has a goal in mind, there’s little to nothing to stop him from protecting the empire. All she could do was lean against the edge of the window, watching them go. “Be safe…” She whispered. <> Pain… The only feeling James Monroe felt, while sprawled upon the ground. As he laid practically motionless, all he could think of was the blaring car horn and the flashing headlights. He’d just been in a terrible car accident, certain that he was on the brink of death. Perhaps probably for the best anyway. After all, he hadn’t much to live for anymore. No job, no house, no family, not even friends. All that was left for him was death. Slowly opening his dark green eyes, he was instantly blinded by a bright white light. He quickly shut them again as he tried to move his sore, aching body. All he was truly able to do for a moment was roll himself onto his back and looked up at the blinding light. “Is this heaven?” He wondered. “Does this explain the white light looming over me?” He blinked his eyes a few times, trying to adjust to the light, and soon enough it started to fade. When it did, he soon realized he was gazing up at the crystal blue sky with the sun shining brightly onto him. Attempting to move some more, he struggled through the pain to sit up. He arched upward and looked around seeing everything around him. Rather than seeing wrecked cars, policeman’s cars and paramedics abound, and crowds of worried people (If any at all), he saw nothing but snowy white landscapes as far as the eye can see. From what he could tell, he seemed to be on some kind of mountain surrounded by nothing but snow. “What the hell?” He asked confused. A sudden rush of cold air struck hard, and quickly he wrapped his arms around himself. “If this is heaven, it could really use a heater,” He said. “And if it’s Hell, then clearly they failed to mention this at Sunday Service.” He rubbed his arms attempting to heat himself. Unfortunately for him, he still wore a t-shirt and jeans so there was hardly anything to protect him from the bitter cold. He realized the longer he stayed where he was, the quicker he’d freeze if he didn’t find warmth. Mustering all his strength, he lifted himself onto his feet and groaned in pain which shot up his entire body. Slowly but surely, he lifted one foot in front of the other as he made his way down the snowy path leading to God knows where. The more he walked, the colder it seemed. His teeth started to chatter from the bitter cold, his skin starting to feel as if it was burning. *Crunch! Crunch! Crunch!* Monroe stopped in his tracks, as the sound of crunching snow caught his ears. His eyes circled the area, but with the blistering winds clouding his vision it proved difficult to see. His body tensed slightly, and not just due to the cold coursing against his exposed skin. The crunching sounds continued, drawing closer… coming to him. He stood on guard waiting, his eyes darting around as if the footsteps are surrounding him. Then all at once, shadowy silhouettes began to form before his eyes. Someone… or somethingwas approaching him, and he had a sinking feeling they had hostile intent. The figure slowly came into view, approaching the man on four legs. But both to the man’s confusion and astonishment it was an equine creature. A shiny, glittery equine with silver armor reminiscent of the roman armor… complete with a red tuff of hairlike material atop. It stood within six feet of the man’s presence and it just… stared at him. “A sparkling war horse?” Monroe muttered, cringing. “Now I know I’m not in America.” Monroe looked side to side wondering if anyone else was around. But all that stood on these grounds thus far aside from Monroe was that small, armored horse, who snorted in the air which flowed through the wintry breeze. “Where’s your rider?” He asked aloud. The creature’s nostrils flared and it’s eyes went wide. And all at once, a spear hovered over its head as the pony grit its teeth. While wide-eyed over the weapon pointing at his face, what really drew the man’s attention was the unicorn horn sticking through the exposed area of his helmet. “Now I know I’m in hell…” Monroe muttered. With a mighty whinny, the guard charged toward the man and lunged it’s spear to pierce him. Remarkably, Monroe acted quickly… swirled past the spear thrust past him and actually elbowed the pony across the jaw. The crystal pony was taken aback, stumbling about as his eyes swirled. Then he fell face-first into the snow… alive but unconscious. And the man stood there with his elbow out, breathing heavily. “Yeah… that was a bad idea pal,” Monroe spoke. Suddenly, shouts and jeers drew the man’s attention as an army of the guard ponies raced toward the human. Plenty of them unicorns but to his surprise there were ponies with wings flying toward him. The majority of them wielded spears with intent to bring him down while a pair carried a heavy net and stretched it out to catch him. Monroe stepped back till he bumped into a tree as the two ponies aimed to ensnare him with the net. Within a few steps close, Monroe ducked to the side and the net caught the tree instead, propelling the two ponies around… and smacked into each other knocking them out cold. A yell made the man quickly turn as an Earth pony swung its spear with his fore hooves. The man swayed side to side, evading the spear until the pony charged with a swing… and Monroe caught the pony and hurled him over his shoulder knocking him flat on his back. Grabbing the spear, he blocked an incoming assault by another guard. Their blunt sides of the spear collided with each strike for a few seconds. Until eventually Monroe broke his opponent’s spear in half with a powerful swing and raised the blunt end of the spear up the guard’s muzzle. He raised the pony higher and higher and higher… and removed it just before the pony sneezed. “AHCHOO!!!” The guard sneezed. “Gesundheit,” Monroe replied. “Thanks…” The guard sighed. Monroe performed a double take for a moment before he used the blunt side of his own spear and smacked him on top the guard’s head. His ears rang as his helmet shook and then he fell to the side onto the snow. Monroe looked at the spear, seeing it’s broken and hurled the blade side into the snow. A cry from the sky made him look up as a Pegasus guard lunged to catch him. Rolling his eyes, Monroe crouched and prepared himself. When the guard was in reach, he grabbed the guard and rolled backward landing on top of the shocked guard. He looked up as another Pegasus descended from above with a mighty shout. Monroe rolled aside just as the guard landed… smashing his colleague right in the stomach knocking the wind out. “WHY?!?!?!?!” The guard gasped. “Oh, I’m so sorry—” The other apologized. “HI-YAH!!!!” Monroe shouted. With a swift spin kick, he struck the distracted guard up the side of his head and knocked him over. Monroe groaned as he clutched his back, as if all the action were putting a strain on muscles he hadn’t used. But he kept his arms up and looked around, as he could see silhouettes of other guards surrounding him. “Come on! Come on!” Monroe beckoned, throwing his arms. “I’ll take you on one-by-one! Come on! Gimme your best shot and get it over with!!!* *WHAM!!!* A buck struck behind Monroe, sending him fumbling forward… *BAM!!!* Monroe’s head struck another tree, he slowly walked backward clutching his now bruised forehead. He stood on his feet for a moment before his eyes started falling back. “Ow…” And then at last, James Monroe fell backward onto the snow as Shining Armor looked toward the defensive man, breathing heavily as he lowered his hind legs. After making a successful move, he slowly made his toward James, now lying unconscious on the snow-covered ground. While the Captain helped some of his fallen comrades to their feet, the rest of the pony guards cautiously approached Monroe and stood over him. At last, Shining Armor approached his entire guard and looked down curiously toward the mysterious creature. “What in the name of Equestria is this thing?” He asked. One of the guards prodded the man with the blunt end of his spear. He received no reaction due to the man being knocked out. “Looks like some form of hairless monkey, captain,” The guard assumed. “Maybe it’s a yeti,” Another suggested. “But I never heard of any that comes this far.” Shining Armor stepped forward slowly, kneeling down to examine the creature closely. Gently reaching out a hoof to tap the creature on the side, he observed the milky white flesh covering its body even the strange clothes it wore. “I’m not sure what this thing is,” Shining Armor broke the silence. “But we can’t leave it here and risk it regaining its strength… probably to come down the mountain and terrorize the empire. I suggest we bring it back to the palace and throw in the dungeon. We’ll decide what to do with it there.” “Yes Captain,” The guards agreed. A few unicorn guards conjured their magic to lift the man off the snowy ground and wrapped the net over him. With the man in custody, they levitated him high over their heads and marched forward with Shining Armor taking the lead. The guards strolled down the mountain towards the Crystal Palace, with no idea what this thing was or even how it ended up here. He knew the landscapes of the empire and all the creatures inhabiting it, but this… this beast certainly was a new case if had ever seen one. One thing was absolutely certain, it was clearly intelligent to dodge their attacks and fight back. Shining Armor would be lying if he did not admit that the creature’s skills are impressive. But, at the same time, such skill makes this creature a dangerous threat to any pony around. Least now it won’t be able to hurt any pony soon as they have it locked in a cell. Then after that… who knows?
CapturedConsciousness slowly seeped its way back into the subconscious mind of one James Monroe. His green eyes slowly opened after taking that strike to the head. Boy, what a weird dream he’d had the night before. He must’ve either gotten ‘really’ drunk after losing his job before passing out or went home and sulked all night while God’s cruel tricks tormented him into psychological exhaustion… probably both. Either way, he gingerly lifted his hand to rub his now aching head as he slowly sat up. “Looks like the prisoner is waking up.” “What the hay even is it?” “I don’t know, but Captain Armor must be notified immediately.” James groaned as his head pounded further. He must still be drunk if he’s hearing voices in his head. When he stood fully upright, he tried clearing his vision so he could see the familiar surroundings of his bedroom. Only when he fully regained vision, he didn’t see any of that. The only sight greeting him were stone walls all around him. James quickly sobered up and scrambled to his feet as he noticed the jagged rocks that littered the cave-like area he currently resided in. “What the hell?” He gasped in shock. He slowly started to back up before he stopped in his tracks the moment he felt himself bump into something. Whatever it was made a sound resembling crashing into something metallic. When he turned around, he saw a door made entirely of old iron bars blocking his way. “Oh shit…” He cursed himself. He quickly ran forward, grasped the iron bars of the door, and started rattling and pulling trying to free himself. “Help!” He shouted. “Is anybody out there? Please, I need help! There’s been some horrible mistake! I’m not supposed to be here!” The sound of a big iron door creaking open, then slamming shut, made James quickly snap his mouth shut as a shadowy silhouette slowly approached him. Until eventually, the sight of a purple-coated miniature horse wearing some form of silvery armor appeared before him and James’ eyes went wide with shock. What was even more shocking about this creature was the fact its entire form seemed to glimmer and gleam like diamonds. “Shut your muzzle prisoner!” The pony snapped. Okay, ‘that’ did it for James. It was one thing to see a mystical-looking horse with a shiny gleaming coat and armor. Not it just actually spoke English. It shocked James so much he actually lost his footing and landed flat on his ass as he scooted away from the gate. “What the hell?!” He yelled. “How are you talking?! Horses can’t talk! Stay the hell away from me!” “Yell all you want prisoner. But until our captain and princess determine what to do with you, you’ll remain locked in this cell. I’d get comfortable if I were you because you might be here for a long time.” The pony guard turned heel and proceeded back from whence it came. The very same iron door opened and closed, the impact echoing across the cave. This left James sitting on the cold ground in complete shock, unable to make heads or toes of what he had just seen. “I’m dreaming…” He told himself. “I must be. I’ll just close my eyes and when I open them up, I’ll be back in my bed, in that shitty apartment.” James closed his eyes so tight it actually hurt to dos o, as he concentrated on waking up and finding himself back in the familiar surroundings of his everyday life. When his eyes snapped open again, all his eyes met were the same stone walls and barred door. “Shit!” He muttered. “Okay, I’ll just pinch myself or slap myself. That should do it.” So James closed his eyes once more and gave his arm a particularly hard pinch to the point it actually discolored his skin with a bruise. Opening his eyes, nothing had changed at all. He closed his eyes again and this time gave his face a few hard slaps. Not only did it ‘not’ work, but it left his cheeks sore, and an ache swelled in his head. “FUCK!!!” <> Meanwhile, high above the dungeon in the Crystal Palace, Princess Cadence sat on her throne holding Flurry Heart close to her waiting in anticipation for a report. About a few hours prior, a great earthquake and a beam of light landed somewhere in the North Mountain. This drew her husband and her troops to investigate what happened. Since then, she’d been pacing around the throne room until finally her sore hooves finally couldn’t take it anymore and she needed to sit down. Flurry had since fallen asleep in her hooves, which made it much easier for her to think. Just then, the doors to the throne room flung open and in walked none other than Shining Armor, flanked by two other Crystal guards. Cadence placed the sleeping Flurry on her back, quickly trotted up, and threw her hooves around her husband, thankful for his safe return. “Oh thank Celestia you’re alright,” She spoke gratefully. “What happened in the North Mountain? Were you able to find out what happened?” Shining gently grabbed his wife’s hooves and unwrapped them from his neck. “Yes dear,” He answered. “We found out what happened.” “Well, what was it?” “We’re still not entirely sure how it happened exactly. But when we arrived on the mountain, we encountered some strange creature.” This caused Cadence to cock her head slightly to the side in curiosity. “What kind of strange creature?” She asked. “We’re not sure yet,” Shining responded. “We assumed it was some sort of yeti, but it doesn’t have fur like most do.” “Could it possibly be a rogue changeling in disguise?” “Highly unlikely. If it were, it surely would’ve reassumed its original form by now being locked in an anti-magic cell.” Cadence tapped a hoof against her chin, pondering over what this creature could possibly be. Never before had she ever heard of a creature in the mountains before. The very thought of it both intrigued and terrified her. “Is it possible it could be some sort of alien?” She asked. “I don’t know honey,” Shining shook his head. “Thankfully, you have nothing to worry about. We have it locked in the dungeon and that’s where it’ll stay.” The more this idea went through Cadence’s head, the more she desired to figure all this out. She wanted to make sense of it all and understand what’s truly going on. “I wish to see it.” “What?!” Shining exclaimed loudly. “No way Cadence! That thing attacked two guards before we finally subdued it. It’s clearly dangerous and I don’t want my wife going anywhere near it!” “I appreciate your thoughtful concern, dear,” Cadence responded. “But I am a full grown mare who can take care of herself. Not to mention I am an alicorn princess. There’s nothing it could possibly throw at me that I won’t be able to handle.” Cadence made a walk by Shining Armor, who quickly blocked her path and stood right in front of her. “No Cadence! I absolutely forbid it!” This caught Cadence by surprise, not to mention it angered her a bit. Who is he to tell her ‘I forbid it!’? Here she is wanting to maintain peace in the empire, yet he has the nerve to talk down to her like she’s a disobedient child scolded by an angry parent. “Excuse me?” Cadence snipped back. “I said I forbid it,” Shining responded sternly. “I won’t allow you to go down there.” “Since when do you get to order me what to do and what not to do?!” Cadence snapped. “When I’m looking out for the safety and well-being of my wife!” “Oh, really? Because a ‘normal’ caring husband wouldn’t talk down to me nor dictate what I’m allowed to do!” From the sidelines, a few crystal guards watched the ensuing argument with wide eyes which showcased how awkward it was to witness this. “I refuse to stand idly by and let you wander down there with that thing alone,” Shining spoke, more calmly. “I can’t afford to lose you before our marriage… I just can’t!” “Them come with me if you must,” Cadence responded. “Either way, I’m going down there. You can’t stop me.” Shining took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He really didn’t want to argue with Cadence. Celestia knows she already has much on her plate as it is with other situations within the empire. Plus, this was his ‘wife’, the mare he promised to love, cherish, and whatever they do they’d do it together. With a heavy sigh, he nodded his head just a little. “Alright, you win,” He relented. “But I am only going down with you only in case this thing tries to attack.” Cadence gave no response, merely walked around her husband in a huff. She was still pretty mad at him; her face gave it away entirely. But right now, she couldn’t focus on her anger. She made her way out of the throne room with her husband following behind along with a few other guards for additional protection. <> Back in the dungeons, the sound of something slamming hard into metal filled the caves. James Monroe currently slammed his shoulder against the cell door hoping either he’ll bust his way out or at the very least loosen the bars. He’d been doing it for the past ten minutes now, his shoulder and arm becoming increasingly sore from slamming against the hard iron so much. Finally, he slumped onto the ground with his back against the door as he massaged his aching shoulder. “Goddammit!” He cursed. “How the fuck am I getting out of here?” Just then, the sound of the big iron door opening caught his attention and he quickly scampered back to his feet. In walked a few more of the sparkling horse guards, this time carrying spears pointed directly at him. “So, what are you going to do now?” James asked. “Kill me?” One guard stepped forward and held his spear toward James’ neck, causing the man to step back a little. “I didn’t mean literally…” From behind the two guards walked another pair of mini horses, thought these were more interesting. The first one was a white stallion with a man both dark-and-light blue with some kind of shield tattoo on its rear. The second was clearly female seeing it was slightly smaller and slimmer than the other. Her coat was a bubble gum pink, a tiny gold crown sat in her mane which flowed with a mix of pink, purple, and yellow. She, like the others, also had a mark on the hindquarters yet hers was a crystal heart. She stepped forward toward the cell wall and looked toward James with piercing magenta eyes. “Can… you… speak?” She asked calmly. James just stared at her in awe, for a moment or two. Till finally, he snapped back to reality with a shake of his head. “Yes… I can talk,” He answered. “Course I’m wondering how the hell ‘you’ can talk. Where I’m from, horses don’t speak at all.” “Oh, we’re ponies, actually,” Cadence giggled. “It’s a common mistake. Anyways, where exactly are ‘you’ from?” James hesitated over answering that question because he was uncertain how to answer or for that matter if they’d believe him. The entire situation was completely messed up and he wasn’t exactly sure what to do. He was still certain he was either dead or drunk, but if that were the case, he wouldn’t be hurting from all the physical stuff he was doing. Perhaps he truly did get teleported to some strange world for all he knew. In that case, that made him some illegal alien in a strange land and that certainly didn’t make things any better. “The princess asked you a question, beast!” One guard yelled. “Patience Corporal Amethyst,” Cadence spoke soothingly. Finally, James snapped out of his thoughts long enough to form an answer. “Let’s just say I’m from another world,” He spoke cautiously. “A world called… ‘Earth’.” “Another world you say?” Cadence questioned. “Would that make you an alien?” “I… guess so?” James chuckled nervously. Cadence couldn’t help but giggle a bit, much to the chagrin of her husband. “Do you have a name, sir?” “Monroe,” James responded. “James Monroe.” “Well then, James Monroe, I personally like to be the first to welcome you to the Crystal Empire. I am Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, but you may call me ‘Cadence’ for short.” Cadence extended a hoof through the iron bars of the cell door in a gesture of greeting, much to James’ surprise. He had to admit for meeting an alien creature from another world, just landing out of nowhere in her own home, she was taking this remarkably well. Hesitantly, he reached out, gently took her small form in his hand, and shook it slowly. In doing so, he couldn’t help but admire just how smooth and soft the hoof was. At that moment, the white stallion in full armor beside her decided to interject himself into the conversation. “Captain Shining Armor of the Crystal Empire Royal Guard,” He stated coldly. “I’m the one who lead the search party you attacked in the mountain.” This caused James to face the stallion like he was crazy. “I attacked?” He repeated. “You were the ones who attacked first! Your ‘search party’ charged at me, tried to impale me with its horn, what did you think was going to happen?!” “Shut your mouth creature!” Shining snapped. “You invade our land, attack our guards, and you have the nerve to feign innocence?” “That is enough Shining!” Cadence yelled. Reluctantly, Shining Armor stepped back from the cell while staring daggers at James, who in turn was more than happy to return. “You have to forgive my husband Mr. Monroe,” Cadence replied. “We’ve had some ‘history’ regarding attacks against our own race for so long, ‘some’ of us started to get paranoid.” “What happens now?” James asked. “Well that all depends. Do you have anywhere to stay while you’re here?” “Considering I just landed along a frozen mountain before being thrown in jail… nope, I wouldn’t think so.” Cadence tapped a hoof to her chin as she thought for a moment. “Well then, it’s decided,” She declared smiling. “You’ll stay here in the Crystal Palace.” “What?!” Shining asked in shock. James, confused, looked around at the cell he was currently occupying. “Aren’t I already?” He asked, gesturing to the bars. “Oh goodness no!” Cadence shook her head. “You can’t possibly stay here in the dungeon. You’re welcome to stay in one of the hundreds of guest rooms we have in the palace.” James couldn’t help but smile slightly. The prospect of leaving this cold dungeon and finally get himself an actual bed to sleep in certainly sounded nice. Meanwhile, Shining grabbed his wife by the forehoof and drew her off to the side to speak with her. “Cadence, I love you, but are you insane?!” He whisper-shouted. “Why offer that thing to stay here?” “What would you prefer I do?” Cadence whispered back. “Send the poor thing out into the cold?” “If that means one less threat of Equestria to worry about, sounds good to me.” Cadence glared toward her husband, as an intense stare-down took place. “What is with you lately?” She asked. “Whatever happened to the stallion I married? The one who was so kind-hearted to all?” “He’s still right here!” Shining answered. “But even he doesn’t think it’s wise to allow a potentially dangerous alien creature to roam free! You weren’t even there when he lashed out!” “He doesn’t seem dangerous to me; in fact, he seems friendly,” Cadence shot back. “He’s a stranger from a foreign land, all alone, with nowhere to go. As the Princess of Love, I won’t turn my back on some pony in need of help. He’s staying here and that is final!” Shining just huffed in irritation before leaving the dungeon angrily. Cadence sighed in frustration before regaining her composure and walked back to the cell. “So what do you say Mr. Monroe?” She asked. “I’d say… what are we waiting for?” He joked. Cadence giggled at his enthusiasm before cueing the guard to open the cell door. Slightly hesitant at first, the guard grabbed the key with his magic and hovered it over to open the gate. James stepped from the cell and stretched his limbs before facing Cadence, who smiled at him. “Shall we then?” She asked. “Lead the way,” James nodded. Cadence proceeded to lead James from the cell block while the two other guards followed closely behind, never taking their eyes off him for a second.
