A Roegadyn in Equestria

A Roegadyn in Equestria.

Chapter 50: A Very Cold Welcome. Part 2.

*Point of view: Princess Celestia*
*Location: The Dream Realm*
*Time: Unspecified*

(Here is a picture of where they are now.)

The wind was howling outside of the two doorways leading out of the makeshift cabin that appeared to be meant for storage or fishing purposes. Just out of one of the doors could be seen a completely frozen lake. There also could be seen a large, hulking figure’s vague shadow currently slowing crossing said lake in the distance, that was being shrouded thanks to the storm.

Inside, Celestia's ears swiveled upon hearing every little sound that could be produced from both the flickering flame of the oil fuel lamp that was enclosed in a glass cylinder that was sitting to one side of a square table meant for a single individual to use. Along with how the roof and walls were being pelted with snow. Even the subtle creaking of the wood from the slightest shift in movement by those within or even with the way the harsh wind was shifting the wooden structure had caught her every attention.

Of course, this really only applied to how they kept shifting the way they were facing. But in regards to her eyes, they were firmly locked onto the large being in heavy armor sitting a short distance away. To her right was Luna, who was sitting in a small chair. As for Celestia herself. She was forced to use a barrel as her seat. When it came to the one in armor, he had pulled over a heavy crate and was now situated on top and had not moved a single muscle after placing his right arm onto the table in front of him and had his helmet turn straight at herself.

What made it all unsettling, was that they've been at this for a good several minutes and he had yet to move even once after sitting down. Not only that, but she had yet to hear him say a single word during their entire encounter. Strangely enough, Luna was just sitting there and had not said a word and on occasion, caught Luna glancing over at herself and giving some eye gestures and a slight tilt of the head to try and get her to say something... Anything.

But all Celestia could do was to stare blankly once in a while at the large axe that was sitting on his back. Whenever she did that though there would be a quick flash going across her mind that comprised of Roars and splattering of limbs that only lasted for not even a second, before she blinked herself free and returned her sight back to his helmet.

She had this inexplicable lump at the back of her throat that threatened to cause her to choke whenever she tried to muster the courage to say a word. Although, all that did, was make her back down and continue on with this silent scene further. Thanks to the helmets faceplate being lowered and the dark black rag of a cloak obscuring the lower part of it, it made things rather hard for Celestia to gauge anything. Especially with how she could not see his eyes through the holes for the eyes meant for him to look through, which only gave the impression that she was staring into nothing but shadows.

All that went through her mind as she thought to herself was, “What he must think of me? Was he angry? Was he disappointed? Why does he not speak? Should I be the first to start talking? Why does he seem so intimidating?” She had stared down Dragon Lord Torch during their meeting and barely felt that she was in danger.

Right now though, she didn't know what she was feeling. She began to imagine as to what kind of expression was underneath that helmet and every new vision set goosebumps to crawl across her entire form and she even had to try very hard as to not let her wings ruffle at each time this happened.

What she had not expected, was how heated up she was beginning to feel. Especially when it came to her lower region. She had gone so long with always being given so much respect by her citizens. Even those that she was not on good terms with would show the minimum of hospitality.

But as for this situation, she was not getting anything aside from being allowed to come into this shack and take a seat. At least it was better than being out there. Celestia was grateful that they were indoors. There were still a few feathers that had some snow clinging on to them and were in the middle of thawing.

Whenever her mind would ended up drifting to this, her legs would begin to shift ever-so-slightly and she prayed to her mother that neither he, nor her little sister Luna had caught on to this. She then started to think to herself. “Celestia! Just what is going through your head? Are you getting turned on by being treated in this way? Why, won't he just say anything to me? Luna mentioned that he forgave me somewhat.”

“The question is, just how much? Luna also said that the way we both came in was a lot more hostile tonight. Is it possible that his mind sensed me before we entered and it lashed out knowing it was me in response? The mind is complicated. No telling if it was a deliberate act or his subconscious being the one that lashed out towards me.”

Celestia was just about to run through another series of what if scenarios when her mind was brought back to the present when Luna gave a small annoyed huff before speaking. “As much as I would love to watch the scenery outside... I would like to apologize first about bringing my sister along for my return. I know that you gave me permission. But I feel that it would be counterproductive if that water was not clear between the both yourself and my older sister.”

“Perhaps it would release the tension if we had something to call you by. Perhaps we-.” Celestia noticed how Lunas eyes had opened wide when her sentence had been cut short. Then Luna's gaze shifted slightly towards her before slowly starting up again. “I was unaware you were able to do that. But I do not believe that my sister has-.” Celestia arch one of her eyebrows as she looked over inquisitively at her sister, who had stopped once again. Only to receive a small apologetic smile has Luna turned her attention towards her before speaking again.

“Sister... He is speaking directly to me and is under the impression that you already have a name for him.” Celestia was clearly confused by that statement, as she turned her attention to him before quickly bringing it back to Luna as the younger sister went on. “He informs me that you gave him the name of... Monster. From back when you both met back at our old castle.”

Celestia scrunched her muzzle in order to think of what name Luna was referring to. When the incident ran across her mind in an instant and stopped at the very moment that she had called him a monster. Because of this, she couldn't stop her mind from replaying the rest of what she had said along with that word and began to look extremely guilty as her ears instantly fell down at the sides of her head.

Celestia then mustered up the courage to finally say something after a few seconds had passed, but it came in a slightly shaky voice. “I truly regret what I said to you then. At the time I was told that a monster had attacked my guards and rushed to save them. I was only looking out for my little ponies.”

She then flinched when she saw his hand that was laying on the table, reach for an object that she hadn't noticed before which turned out to be a kind of knife and jammed the tip straight down onto the middle of the table. Then he pulled the blade towards himself in order to make a long-gouged line that went on for several inches. This was before taking the dagger and sticking it somewhere else with the blade partly in the table to make so that the handle was standing up in the air.

She also saw how Luna had also flinched as well. But only after his act was done and she was looking towards Celestia while having a strange smile. Luna then spoke in a cautious tone. “He said that was strike one. Two more and he's going to force us to leave. He uh, also implied that we only care about the ponies and think of any other race that is in our lands to be of second-class citizens or none at all.”

Celestia appeared to be extremely confused as her muzzle scrunched up before she began to speak again. “I-I'm sorry, but I don't know what I said that would have given you that sort of impression. I care about the well-being of every pony-.” The alabaster mare was interrupted again when he had grabbed onto the knife and harshly dug out a second line before placing it near where he had taken it from.

This was preceded with Luna leaning sideways so that she was closer as she said, “Dear Sister, I believe the problem is that you're using the term “Pony” and that appears to be what is setting him off in this manner. He also says that's strike two. I suggest you think carefully on your choice of words.”

Celestia was now darting her eyes left to right as she began to sweat even, though it was still cold all around while trying to rack her brain. Then she started to think to herself as her eyes drifted towards the two tally marks that were carved into the wooden table. “All I said was my pony’s and every... Pony... Oh dear.” Celestia’s mind began to turn the gears as she replayed conversations from throughout her life when the word Pony was thrown into selecting an individual or a group.

Among those memories, she did happen to recall how on occasion there was a non-Pony present and most of which did not look very happy. Even if it was the smallest of details that changed their body movements or facial expressions. That was when she brought her attention back to him and swallowed the lump in her throat as she started to speak. At the same time, putting on her most diplomatic facade that she could muster under the current circumstances.

“I do apologize if what I say offends you. It is simply a saying that I do not discriminate among the other races, I assure you. It is a phrase that I do, but I do not believe it is something to be so upset over. After all, I don't really see the harm in-.” She knew that she had somehow bucked up when he immediately went for the dagger. This time, he plunged it down so hard that it actually went through the table and created a solid line that could be seen going clean across and only stopped to release the handle once finished, which left it near the very edge.

From there, everything around them began to rumble quite violently and there was the sound of a thunderstorm coming from outside as bright flashes were seeing through the doorways and the nearby window. There was also how the darkness from outside was steadily creeping in along the floor where there was obviously light that should have been able to stave it off. But it moved as though it were a river of pure black as it approached.

As the rumbling continue, there were fractures appearing in the wooden walls that showed that the structure itself was ready to be ripped apart due to the sheer magnitude of the earthquake that was only getting stronger by the second. Celestia was clearly scared with all of this going on. She caught in the corner of her eye that Luna was staring straight at him and was practically leaning back in her chair with her ears fully pulled straight back and her eyes becoming as wide as dinner plates.

When she had brought her attention back over to him, she saw that within the sockets of the helmet meant for the eyes. There were now a pair of glowing red orbs that were beginning to shine through. His helmet had been sharply turned towards Luna for a few seconds and afterwards, the younger of the sisters was frantically nodding fast enough that Celestia was quite literally seeing an afterimage of the head bobbing motion before Luna's horn erupted with a quick flash of magic.

When the light subsided. Celestia found herself standing next to her sister while back again in the dream realm and standing a fair distance from the large dream bubble that they were just within. After a few seconds of staring at said bubble, she turned her head to ask Luna what had happened. Only to catch the sight of her younger sister almost hyperventilating while her eyes were transfixed straight ahead as if still seeing something terrifying right before her.

Celestia tried to comfort her little sister afterwards, but it took a couple of minutes before Luna began to look like her normal self. All the while, stealing a glance or two back at the dream bubble that was once again shrouded in that dangerous cover that they had to contend with. After which, she began to tell Celestia what had happened during the conversation that she had missed out on as they conversed back and forth.

“Sister, I suggest not using any wording that would discriminate. For it seems to be what they say these days to be, a major pet peeve of his.”

“Please Luna, tell me everything that he said.”

“I am not entirely comfortable with that. Would you much rather that I paraphrase it instead?”

“Luna, I really need to know. Tell me exactly what he said, word for word. Otherwise, I will be unsure as to the severity of the situation. Don't sugar coat it for me.”

“Very well, you are a grown mare after all. I will remind you that a few of his word choices do seem a little off, although they sound close enough to our own that it quite easy to determine their meaning.”

“Luna you're beating around the bush again...”

“Fine, fine. don't blame me if you do not like what is repeated this night. When I inquired as to what we should call him by, his response was… Oh! She knows what to call me. She was very insistent on what it is! To her, I'm nothing but a monster! Something that needs to be exterminated, something that does not deserve to live! Those were her very words that she yelled straight into my face when she tried to murder me! I don't fucking care what she calls me! She could go ahead and say that I'm a monster, a beast and abomination. In fact, I find it insulting that she had even forgotten that herself!”

“When you talked about protecting our ponies. He said… Your ponies your ponies! I see how it is, you preach about love and tolerance and friendship. But all you really fucking care about is your perfect, can’t do anything wrong ponies! Open your eyes! There are others that live on your land beside the ponies that you are so loving towards. What of the other races? The Griffin, the Minotaurs, the Buffaloes, the donkeys.

There are so many others out there and they called it their home. Are they nothing but second-class citizens that you just tolerate? Maybe you don't even see them as Citizens at all?! They're just baggage, trash that are unwelcome. Isn't that right?”

“Now sister, as you said the phrase. You were looking out for every pony. His response was… There we go again! I cannot believe how racist the ruler of this land is? It's always Pony this or pony that! I see how it is, you think that you're all better than all the other races. We can use magic, we can fly, we can have great strength for our size. We have two that can move the sun and moon! The rest are nothing!”

Luna was looking really nervous for the next part. “The last one was not very pleasant. Are you sure you don't want me to possibly condense it? it is rather long…”

“Please Luna, this is the last one. Just tell me what he said already, I'm getting a picture now as to what type of male he is.”

“Very well. At the end he said this... You don't see the harm in you talking like that?! You are the fucking ruler of these lands! Do you not realize how much heartache and suffering you have put others through because of what you say on a daily basis?! All your subjects listen to every word you say, every syllable, every nuance of every single word and gesture and they integrated into their daily lives!”

“Because Of YOU! The term every Pony and any Pony are used even when a non-Pony is involved! You may not think that is much, but there are lasting repercussions that comes forth from this way of thinking. This implants into your precious…. Little ponies, that they are above everything and can treat any other non-Pony race however they want! And it all because of what you instilled into them from birth!”

“There are those of the other races that get persecuted each and every day by your ponies. They are treated as second-class citizens and given only the bad jobs and even worse pay! Your ponies are so ignorant and self-entitled, that when anything goes wrong and they see a Minotaur or a griffin, there instantly blamed!”

“Do you know how many times I've seen your guards going around and profiling others, just because they’re not a pony?! I am clearly up and into the triple digits from what my own eyes have seen! It's not only you that, you are seen as a racist by the others around the world. Because of you, every single Pony across the land has become the most arrogant, racist bigots I have ever had the misfortune of coming across!”

“If either of you had ever come down from that Ivory pedestal that you so proudly sit upon. Then you would see that the homeless and destitute are comprised of over ninety percent non- ponies. And don't get me started on the whole bit where your tender little innocent ponies go around in persecuting others. Knowing full well that because of what you say, they believe that they can get away with anything as long as their hate crimes are pointed towards anything that does not have anything to do with the three tribes!”

“I cannot stand to look at your face anymore! I want you out! I want you out right now! Luna, you are free to return whenever you feel like it and I will make sure that you are brought straight to me. However, if you decide to bring this overgrown… Horse! into my mind again, she had better pick her words carefully! Because by the twelve as my witness, I will not be fully accountable for my actions if she should ever press me too hard again! I am utterly disappointed in her ability to foresee such a simple-minded mistake! NOW! Take her away or I might finish what her guard prevented me from doing from so back then!”

Over with Celestia, she could plainly play this scene from just a while ago and putting those words behind the silent fury that she witnessed. With each new telling, her eyes began to water as her gaze was brought down to her hoofs. After a few seconds of trying to recompose herself. The alabaster mare had turned her gaze towards Luna. Who now wore a hurt expression that was much like her own, before she spoke in a sorrowful tone.

“I... I never really put much thought into how even saying certain words would affect my subjects. I really only chose the phrase when I wanted to comfort them with how uneasy it all became after your banishment. They were all scared when the moon didn't go down and we had that fight. Not once did it ever occur to me that it would bring on such a mindset to our ponies. Even now, it is apparent that it had indeed affected those around myself now that I think back on those instances.”

“I really did try to help all of those that live in Equestria. Just how long have I been seen as a racist?” Celestia immediately got a hug from Luna as she could feel a hand moving along the back of her head and giving a calming gesture. Which had an immediate effect on the older sister. Luna spoke as she continued with the stroking. “Shusssh... You are not a racist. This is an outcome that was not foreseen and we could still fix this. Perhaps you remember mentioning a Sir fancy pants that attend your court?”

“I inquired as to him from my night guard and I was informed that he is on great terms with all and has been socially accepted among the races that he had been conducting business dealings with. From what I understand, Sir Fancy Pants would use phrases such as everyone and everybody. We can talk to him and possibly gain some aid in correcting the damage that has been done. He apparently is well-liked and has many connections. I can’t personally think of none other that could help us with this issue in regards to one’s personal image.”

“Now come now, let me bring you back to your dream. You still need a good night's sleep and there but a few hours left.” Celestia weekly nodded to this and allowed Luna to use her magic to send her back into her own dream bubble. Once Celestia was sent back to her own dream, she found that there was a sudden pain around her neck and this caused the mare to quickly wake up from her dream with a sudden welp.

*Point of view: Princess Celestia*
*Location: Celestia's bedchambers*
*Time: Four in the morning*

The solar princess had been soundly sleeping in her bed. Body mostly covered in a big silk white blanket. But she had suddenly shot up and into a sitting position. From there, she had thrown off the blankets in order to grasp at her neck with both of her hands in panic. At the same time, she was having a panicked expression crossing her face. As she took in a deep breath. Celestia’s mane was a mess and some sweat could be seen running down her face.

She had thrown her legs over the edge of her bed and gotten up in order to get to her dresser. Which had a large vanity mirror and used her magic to turn on the lights in her room. Once she did that, she leaned in and lifted her chin and had to hold in a loud gasp as her eyes turned into pinpricks upon seeing a very noticeable bruise going all the way around her neck in the same place that she was assaulted by that tendril that was protecting the bubble. It was a solid, unbroken line that might have been confused from a distance for a choker accessory.

The injury was quickly enveloped and her golden aura after charging her horn for a healing spell. After a few seconds, her eyes went wide with disbelief once she realized that it was having no effect at all. It was just as it was back in the dream, were Luna could not heal it past a certain point and Celestia had this look of dread on her face as she began to put the pieces together.

If that weird drill appendage had made it to her head, then odds were that Celestia might have died in her sleep. What's more, she had no idea if this was a direct result of trying to break in when she was not wanted, or was it possible that any injury sustained while entering his mind and any damage would have the result of transferring to her true form that was in the waking world. She then wondered what would have happened if that monster had managed to get to Luna before it was pulled away at the last moment.

Then Celestia had another scenario running through her mind that she just could not stop. It was about the dream that she would get on occasion. Where she and him were locked in battle. What would have happened if she had gone in and was caught by the same dream and played her role as she always had. Except, through his anger towards her, his version could have been changed. thereby causing his shield to decapitate her instead of stopping.

She then started to speak in but a whisper that was filled with Dread, while looking at the bruise Mark around her neck. “What would become of myself if he should ever learn how to dream walk and enter my own? It would be entirely possible with a mind that is capable of inflicting this type of wound on the physical realm.”

With this sudden realization being brought forth. Celestia return to her bed and laid down over the covers only to stare blankly at the underside of her beds overhead cover. She then began to absent-mindedly bring her left hands index finger to trace along the mark on her neck. This was then followed with her eyes going slightly unfocused and her breath quicken. Along with the rate of her heart speeding up.

Without much warning, the hand that was lightly touching the bruise mark had moved up so that she was lightly gripping around her own neck. At the same time, her free right-hand had snaked its way over and was now lightly fondling her right breast through her silk white nightgown. She then lit her horn and envelop the entire room with a sound cancelling spell before a series of light moans that began to escape her lips, as she started to talk to herself in a aroused tone that was short of breath.

“He, he was he was so angry with me.... Oouh... Why-why is my body heating up?!” Celestia began to let out a small gasp as her hand gripped a little tighter on the mark. In response, the mare began to shift her hips so that her thighs were rubbing up against each other as she shifted her position from left to right. In doing so. For bedsheets began to shift and become disheveled. Some light moans began to escape as she bit down onto her lower lip and was forced to breathe a little heavier through her nose.

The image of him sitting on that crate had flashed in front of her minds eyes and she remembered the way she felt during that time. The way she began to feel warm down there and even a slight tingle. This of course, brought back the sensation from then and Celestia was now lightly bucking her hips into the air, as her fingers went to work on her neck and right breast even harder. This eliciting a loud moan to escape her lips as her mouth opened up slightly before biting down again to stifle any sounds from escaping.

As Celestia’s fingers went to work at aggressively squeezing her breast. Her thumb and index finger were already starting to lightly pinch at her nipple, that was now fully erect and practically poking through her nightgown. This eliciting another chorus of moans from Celestia and was paired with her gasping for air every few seconds. From this she could feel her lower lips getting very wet, this thanks to the shifting of her thighs as she continued.

Within her mind, she couldn’t help but to say the following to herself. “He looks down on me. There's a male out there that looks down on me! Aaah! A male that is fully capable of causing me pain! A real male that wouldn’t even think twice to reprimand me! Oh! Yes... Yes! Oh my... W-What I wouldn't give to hear his voice from back when he was angry! He even called me a Horse! I have never been called that before! Does he truly see me as some dirty tramp! S-Some Hussie?! OooOOhhhh! YES!”

That had apparently been enough of a mental image for Celestia to buck her hips in a frantic motion and bear her teeth. She was also letting out a scream that filled the room. This alone would have instantly called in the guards that were standing just outside, that is if it was not for the spell that she had already placed ahead of time.

Celestia was already drenched in sweat and her wings unknown to her were painfully outstretched and had practically gone over the edge of the bed on both sides of her body. Her breathing had quickened into short bursts as she was getting air to rush pastor teeth. Even the grip of her left hand who had her fingers wrapped around her neck had grown stronger. This in turn had caused her breathing to be more forced as she was literally preventing her own body from getting much needed oxygen. Her face was flushed and turning red. However, it was hard to notice if it was from lack of air or a combination of that and her aroused state.

During this, her eyes we're looking upwards and had this twisted smile and a heavy amount of drool that could be seen coming from the right side of her mouth. Clearly showing that Celestia was going through some sort of personal, mind-blowing experience. The rest of her body arch as her back lifted off the bed. After losing control, she didn't even notice how her fingers that were playing with her nipple, were now pulling so hard that it was completely stretch to its limit and she had already torn her nightgown in the process.

Down below, where her attire would normally have stopped just above the knee. Had shifted up to expose her white panties that had completely been soaked through with her juices. What's more, was the amount of fluids still leaking from the edge of her panties that was dribbling onto her bed and creating a large wet stain that had grown. There was yet another scream that came from her lips while her hips were in the air and legs straining to keep her up.

With a series of almost imperceivable jerking motions, her panties began to dribble as a few spurts of her mare juices had forced their way after hitting the insides of the fabric. When this had happened to her body, she became completely frozen for a few seconds, while her legs from the underside were carrying what had it come out towards the end of her legs and staining more of her bed sheets.

The room had a deafening echo as Celestia screamed at nearly the top of her lungs during this event. Which was quite impressive with the way she was gripping herself with her left hand and a very little amount of oxygen that she had managed to get into her lungs beforehand.

As soon as that was done, her body had finally given out and allowed her the fall back onto the bedspread and creating not only the puff sound upon landing on a soft mattress but also hey perceivable impact against something wet and soggy that had accumulated underneath. The hands that were busily playing with her body, had finally release their grip and fallen at her sides to allow Celestia to breathe without any obstruction.

With her body spent, Celestia weekly turned her head in order to look at the night stand that had that picture that she drew. With a tired grin and a set of heavily flushed cheeks that were covered in sweat. She tried to focus on the picture as her mind was quickly going blank from the exhaustion and lack of proper sleep. However, just as her eyes closed and her consciousness was finally going down for the count. She weakly spoke under her breath that was ragged and had hardly any strength present. “L-Lulu... Find him again… soon.”

If she were to still be awake and looking towards the window, Celestia might have noticed a pair of gleaming white eyes belonging to a small baby bat that was currently hanging upside down and peeking into a room from the window. It had just then unfolded its swings and took flight in order to dive down to a lower section of the palace without making a sound.

*Point of view: Brex Mith*
*Location: His room in Ponyville*
*Time: Six in the morning*

Brex, while still sitting in the chair. He was blinking his eyes slowly awake after spending the rest of the night venting his anger, by changing that dream into one where he was going through a dungeon and just going to town with slaughtering everything that he came across. But by the time he had to wake up, he had luckily worked out everything that was bothering him so that it was not going to affect this day and the plans he had in store.

However, before he could even get up. The Roegadyn had received a mental download from his double that was stationed back at the castle in Canterlot. As soon as it all came in, his eyes went so comically wide that he was sure that if they had gotten any bigger, than his mask might have been pushed off of his face. He even had to contain a loud gasp of disbelief as to not wake up Gilda who is still in his bed on the other end of the room.

Inside his mind, he pretty much screamed the following. WAIT! WHAT?! Celestia! Celestia! Is a… No-No-No! That can't be right! NO! She can't be… NO-NO-NO-NO-NO-NO, HELL NO! I am not having this! No way, no how! Why is she... Oh by the Twelve... She's a… She’s a fucking HORNY masochistic princess! And she's targeting me! I swear! Something or someone has to be setting this up, because this... This does not happen! Yeah, sure she has a hot body and all, but I'm not interested in her as a partner!”

*Point of view: Princess Luna*
*Canterlot: Within Princess Luna's Bedchambers*

Luna had just woken up and threw off her covers to get out of her bed and had headed right into her private bathroom. After taking a good look at herself in the mirror. She leaned in and turned on the faucet in order to splashed some of the cold water onto her face to help with getting her to stay awake. She had to head to the dining room to meet up with her sister for the usual get-together.

Even if Luna was within the dream realm and helping the ponies. It did not mean that she was actually asleep herself. This meant that even though the younger of the sisters was in bed for nearly the entire night, she was wide awake and required normal sleep afterwards. Which she took during the day. This explaining why she was only active during the night time and was always found asleep for a good portion of the day.

After blinking her eyes a few times. Luna looked into the mirror once again and brought forth the image in her mind's eye of the plant that nearly took her face while within the dream world. She then had a distant expression as she replayed the events that transpired shortly afterwards in vivid detail.

Right after she had been saved and the axe had been pulled free from the corpse. Luna found that her sister was primed to launch one of her spells with the way her body was positioned and quickly stepped between the two of them in order to block the line of sight. As she did this, she quickly called out to her older sister in a frantic tone that was still shaky from the scare from but a moment ago. “Sister please! He is the one we are here to meet! Stay your magic! I assure you that he is not here to harm us!”

Celestia clearly had a look of contemplation as she was slowly lowered her outstretched hand that had a faint yellow glow which was beginning to grow dim. Although her eyes were still transfixed on to the one that was standing behind Luna. When she returned her gaze back towards him, she saw how he was facing is helmet towards her and lifting his axe in order to gesture towards her older sister.

Seeing what he was getting at, Luna tried to make herself look bigger by standing straight as she could and began to speak in a diplomatic tone. “I brought my older sister, Princess Celestia in order to reconcile the serious grievances between yourself and her.” Luna then heard a low growl that echoed from behind his metal helmet, before he spoke just loud enough that she was sure that her sister would not have been able to hear it from the distance she was currently at.

“I invited you... What gives you the right to bring others into my mind. Especially her! Don't think that just because you have the title of princess, that it means you can do whatever you wish. I am not one of your subjects that will snivel and cower at the drop of a hat whenever one of its rulers decide that they want to go off and do whatever they want. I am not one to graciously allow either of you to do so while kissing the very ground you walk on. Did you honestly believe I would be comfortable with this seeing that you have betrayed my trust so soon? I expected that you would not pull such an act. But at least not for a little while longer. But it would seem that I am grossly mistaken as to whom I give my trust too.”

As Luna heard him speaking, she was beginning to get some chills that were running down her spine that had nothing to do with how cold it was. With every word, his voice would get lower and Luna was almost sure that he was beginning to radiate a form of aura that comprised of both red and black that was just barely visible. She was almost positive that his eyes were also glowing red from behind the helmet as well and were gaining intensity. Shewas clearly hurt by the words concerning his trust towards herself.

There was then a series of howl's that were coming from above that caught the attention of both her and her sister, as they looked where they had been walking from. When they did, Luna's eyes went wide upon catching the site of a handful of those creatures that were chasing them. They were right now in the act of scaling down the side of the cliff.

They did this by either jumping from one small ledge to another, or allowing their bodies to drop a short distance before digging their clawed hands into the side of the rock face to slow their descent. Only to continue this process until they had finally arrived at the very bottom and making a cloud of snow when their large bodies landed.

One of them who was the closest and had already landed on a ledge. Pushed off and was in mid-fall to land directly onto her sister. But before either she or Celestia can do anything. The creature was hit in the center of its forehead by a large axe that had enough power behind its throw that it sent the monster flying back a good several meters. Only to land in the snow for its white furred body to disappear into the environment and leaving nothing but the axe to be seen from where they stood thanks to the glow it gave off in contrast to the white all around it.

As Luna was still looking where the creature was laying, she heard from directly behind her, the voice of the male growling an animalistic fury as he slowly passing by her as he spoke. “Good... A Distraction! Should help me in calming down before I do something that I just might regret later.” The cloak that was covering his left side have been thrown over so that it was now hanging off of his back, as to allow his arm its complete freedom in movement.

After walking several meters towards the beasts that had all congregated near the base of the cliff side. He reached down and retrieved his axe from the skull of the one he had just slain. There was a lull of silence that lasted a few seconds before both she and Celestia had to fold their ears down while covering them with their hands after he had released a booming deafening roar that was filled with unbridled rage.

This in turn, had the effect of visibly shaking up the pack of creatures as a few of them took a defensive posture by slightly leaning forward. While Luna caught a number of them taking a hesitant step back. She herself had the furs on her whole body now bristling from hearing such an outburst. It even caused her to hold her own breath for an instant.

There was even one of those beasts who nearly went so far as to bow their head. But this only lasted for a split second before regaining its composure. It was the one in the back which seemed larger than the rest by a few hoofs, that gave a challenging roar of its own in which to rally the rest into charging all at once.

The odd aura that she had perceived moments ago, had come into a full eruption as his entire body became engulfed in the colors and she could see how he flexed both his arms out and sent another roar straight up into the sky. To Luna, this was obviously a sign from both sides that the carnage was to begin by two alpha’s.

(Here is a Picture of how Brex looks while he is angry as a Warrior.)

He raced forward with showing little resistance from his legs plowing through the deep snow and came across the first to meet him within a few seconds. Unfortunately for the creature, it had tried to swing down at him with a diagonal strike with its left arm. Only to have him sidestep it to be on the outside and spun his body so that his axe would come around and take off the arm that was used to launch that attack at the shoulder.

Before the arm had even fully separated by this move. The axe had stopped before reaching the ground and the blade was shifted towards the side and brought forcibly up again to slice along where its stomach was and gouging a deep cut until the weapon had completely left its flesh and sent trails of blood to smear to stain the white ground. Some of it had even covered his left leg from the knee and down and had instantly become frozen over the metal.

The beast had let out a feral growl just before it turned into a pitiful whimper that lasted only as long as it took for its body to hit the ground and become motionless. The next one to come try to attack, had come from behind him. But was easily dispatched after he had jumped into the air after first turning on the spot to deliver a full-on head-splitting chop with his full body added to the powerful attack as it came down.

The force of which not only allowed the heavy looking axe to bury itself pass the large skull, but had only stopped once it had gone just further than the neck on to the main body itself. But it had the added effect of bringing the whole body down so hard, that it literally caused a shock wave to blast away a good portion of snow to reveal a rocky ground that spanned a couple of meters around the dead body.

There was yet another surge of this red aura just as he had pulled his axe free from the bloody body and gave another one of those roars before somehow jumping several meters in front at a blinding pace to deliver another skull splitting attack. Thereby bringing down a third with just a single hit and making yet another crash with the power behind it.

It was clearly seen by Luna that three were coming at him from not only behind, but from either side of him right then. But as soon as they had gotten within range of his long weapon, they were turned into mincemeat by him going into an accelerated spin that allowed his axe to do a complete three hundred sixty-degree arc around his form for a total of three times before coming to an end.

Only to finish with him taking another strike with his axe going towards the ground and sending a powerful shockwave in all directions. Once this final attack had struck, the three monster’s bodies were sent tumbling back and during this, it was plainly seen that a number of arms and legs had been severed along with their bodies receiving beep gouges that are going from left to right. One of them had even lost their head as it when far enough to disappear over a mound of snow.

Luna had to take a quick step back in order to avoid any of the parts hitting the ground and coming to a sudden stop after rolling a few times. Once it had, it was easily identified as one of the other monster’s heads after losing one of its horns. But her attention was pulled back towards the fight, when the last monster gave one of the biggest roars that she had heard so far. Which turned out to be the leader of the pack that was staying towards the rear and watching all of this unfold.

It then lunged forward and began to zigzag between the bodies as it closed the gap between itself and him and just as it got close enough. It had taken a strong swipe with its right arm and struck the axe which had just then been brought up the block.

There was a resounding clash between Steel and Claw that echoed through the area they were in from this. From there, the fight continued with the creature using different parts of its body as a completely spun in place to go into a furious, almost unending onslaught.

These attacks would either be blocked or parried by using the handle of his weapon or even the blade the come into direct contact with the claws or horns. The male would shift his legs to reposition himself in order the take on the blows as to not be knocked over. At times, there would be a sudden spark between the clashing metal and natural weapons that belonged to the both of them.

After close to nearly two minutes had gone by. Luna could tell that the beast was covered in cuts that were running all over its form. The arms, the legs, the Torso. Even the tail showed signs that they had nearly been cut through thanks to the amount of blood leaking from the wounds. The once pure white fur it at the start, was virtually turned completely crimson and the creature looked more like a beast out of Tartarus by this point than one that belongs in this frozen land in Luna's eyes.

As for the one with the axe. Not much had changed aside from the cloak gaining a few rips in the fabric and some of the armor being more than a little scuffed up from the combination of impacts with a tail and other limbs. Along with a few barely noticeable scratch marks that had grazed the surface in a few areas. The weapon however, was so heavily coated in the frozen blood that had stuck to it, that not only the blade had been doused. But most of the handle could be seen in the same state.

They were now a good ten meters apart and the hulking beast had lowered itself into a crouching position. Both of its hind legs and forearms we're firmly dug into the snow as its mouth was slowly dripping blood onto the snow underneath its body. In response, she could see that the male had swung his weapon behind and onto his back with his right arm and affixed it in place and had taken a ready stance with his right leg shifted back and both arms outstretched to show that he was provoking the creature into doing its obvious charge.

With another feral roar it begins its rush. The strength of its arms and legs was enough to raise not only snow, but the rocks that its claws were dug into from just the act of running at full speed. Its horns in prime position to run through whatever was in its path thanks to how it tilted its head.

A few small mounds of snow and rocks were easily plowed through and as it got close. Its horns were grabbed onto by both of his hands. With a noticeable loud grunt of exertion, they both kept moving in the direction that the creature was going for several meters before they came to a grinding stop as both of his legs made two sets of deep skid marks in the snow.

Luna could distinctly hear the creaking of metal and the non-stop growling’s from the beast as the two were caught in a stalemate in terms of strength. Neither one was giving the other any leeway that she could tell. One of the horns had been positioned where if it had kept on going the way it was, then it would have gone right through his chest plate.

As for the other Horn, it was firmly grasped in his right arm. After a few seconds of this, she heard him giving a loud grunt of exertion as his right arm appeared to be pushing at the horn he was grabbing on, until it had snapped off near the base with a loud sickening crack. The younger princess gave his expression that showed that it was rather disturbing. From there, Luna had absentmindedly brought her right hand up to touch her horn almost instantly.

Thanks to this sudden change in the way that it was being held back. The other horn had drifted off course and had just barely missed his left shoulders armor. But within that instant, he had used the very same horn that had broken off and was still in his strong grip, to swung up from underneath and rammed a tip into its head from just below the jaw. From what she could tell from where she stood. The horn itself was easily the length of her own arm.

Once it had gone in by at least several inches, he shifted his grip on the still intact horn so that he was now literally using it to keep the monsters head in place, thanks to it now being held under his left arm. Afterwards, he had released the horn that he had used as a weapon and made a fist with his hand in order to punch with its heavy gauntlet at the flat end that had snapped off. This made it so that this act had sent it deeper into its skull with a heavy crack that was emanated upon doing so.

Immediately, the beast went silent as its body movements had come to an abrupt halt. But it didn't stop there, as he continued to punch the horn until it went deeper and deeper until it had protruded from its skull at the top of its head near the back. With another grunt, he pretty much tossed the body to the floor and gave off a deafening roar of his own as he flung both of his arms apart and threw his helmet back.

This had the effect of making Luna’s hairs stand on end, along with holding her breath out of instinct to not be noticed. Once it had all settled down, he wordlessly brought them to the structure where they ended up having that little chat. Before Luna had to pull the both of them out after her older sister had upset him to the point of yelling into her mind.

Now coming back from her recollection. Luna bent down and splashed another handful of cold water across their face before she proceeded on continuing with her preparation for meeting her sister. All the while, going through her head as to how to get her older sister to be able to show just how remorseful she was towards him for their next meeting.

*Point of view: Princess Celestia*
*Location: Dining room*
*Time: Seven in the morning*

Celestia had just sat down at the large table and right in front of a plate of pancakes when Luna arrived in the dining room after using her usual teleportation spell to shorten the distance. The two of them had started off with their usual daily discussions about what was going to be happening that day. This being in regards to Day Court and other special events in the near future. Once those were out of the way. Luna immediately went straight into the topic that was mostly on her mind seeing as she had not shown too much interest until that moment.

“Sister, I believe there are few topics that I wish to inquire upon. First being that of the schools that was previously mentioned last night by you yourself. After all, was it not your suggestion that we should reconvene on that subject? I for one do not know that much from a part that they were established close to eight years ago and that there are three of them in total. I am quite interested in knowing how they were brought into being.”

Celestia gave a curt nod before wiping some of the crumbs from her breakfast off of her mouth before answering. “I suppose it would be best if I started at the very beginning. Roughly over a year before they were built. I was approached by a group comprised of both Pony, Griffin, Minotaur and even a young Dragon. All of which upon first glance, wore a colored robe that covered most of their bodies that would only leave their heads exposed when they came to Day Court.”

“I was told beforehand that a group had petition for an audience and had been waiting for nearly a month. There was thirteen in all. Though their own words, they had established that they came from somewhere outside of Equestria, but when I press the matter on where are they originated from, all they would say was that it was not on any currently known maps that we had in our possession. Of course, It was understandable that there were portions of our world that had yet to be explored. Because of this, I believed it was not entirely out of the realm of possibility and heard them out.”

“When I asked as to why they wished for an audience. I expected for a request for asylum perhaps. Instead, the monster attacks were brought up almost immediately and they informed me that they knew forms of combat, which could be taught to the other races in both, in and around Equestria in order to repel the threat more successfully. It was obvious to say that I was skeptical as to what they could possibly teach us when I had my trained guards.”

“They then surprised me by putting forth the proposal of a mock combat exercise between themselves and a number of my own elite guards in order to prove how effective their skills are. When I asked why they wanted to do such an act. Their response was, that showing would be far more effective than simply discussing what they could do.”

“Luna, what I need you to know, is that at the time, the monster reports have been getting more disturbing. As not only were they getting bigger and their sighting numbers becoming more frequent. The strength in which they possessed had been drastically increasing in certain areas and even a random monster would have appeared now and then that would be able to overwhelm the town guards that were stationed in the area. As a result, the casualties were becoming greater.”

“Well, you see... My current captain of the guard at the time. Who is now retired had taken great offense to such an outlandish statement and immediately took them up on their offer. While I myself was... Not quite as convinced. It was then quickly decided afterwards that they would hold this mock battle within the guards training ground, where they would have ample space and that I would reside as the judge.”

*Point of view: Princess Celestia*
*Location: Castle guards training ground*
*Time: Nine years ago*

Towards the back of the castle where they had an enclosed area with an open roof to allow the flyers to easily conduct their aerial maneuvers. The ground was tightly packed with dirt and along the edges, there could be seeing equipment set aside in certain parts. As for the center, it was completely cleared of any of obstruction.

The field that was to be used for the mock battle was easily eighty meters across to form a circle. On the northern part of the wall, roughly ten meters from the ground going up, was a balcony where Princess Celestia sat on a large chair. There she would over see it all from her current vantage point.

The sun was nearly at its peak with it being close to noon and there was some slight overcast that gave a few shadows to loom over some parts of the arena. On one side stood in a neat row, thirteen combatants dressed in robes consisting of three distinct of varying colors.

These colors being that of blue, green and red. Each one of the members wore a mask that only shrouded around their eyes and stop right at their noses. Or in the case of the Griffins, on the upper part of their beaks. Of the Blues, there were two and the greens had a total of three. Now, as for the Reds. There was a total of eight of them in a solid line.

As for the side representing the Royal Guards. All of which were 13 mare’s and a majority of them were Unicorns, while only four or Earth ponies and two consisted of Pegasus. The captain of the guards, who was a Unicorn mare by the name of, Far Cry. Was standing between the two groups and Celestia could tell that she was not taking this all that seriously with the condescending smirk that she could easily see thanks to the spell to enhance her eyesight in order to properly gauge their clash.

That was when one of the Blue robed ones came forward and had taken a few steps from the rest. She appeared to be a green toned Pegasus with a silver mane. The wings were protruding through some wide slits in the back of her robes. She then called out loud enough for all to hear. “I don't think you understand what we're here for Captain! We told your princess that we are better than you. I strongly suggest that you get more on your side before we start. Otherwise, this will be ending without much of a demonstration on our part.”

Captain Far Cry, had immediately turned on the spot in order to face the one who was clearly mocking them and shouted loud enough that if any other Pony was to try it, then their voice would instantly go raw from attempting to imitate.

“How dare you! We are the Royal Guard and we are the best of the best! We protect both the Princess and these lands! We are superior to any military force in the world! We don't know where you came from, but I'm sure it's from some ragtag country if it isn't even worthy of being on any of our maps. Of course, that's if we even believe a word of what you say!”

Celestia rose from her chair and addressed her captain. “Captain Far Cry. They did mention that they believe themselves to be stronger than my current guard. Why not honor their request and bolster your numbers? Captain Far Cry immediately responded to this with a shocked expression, as she had to contain an outburst that clearly was going to be something offensive but caught herself in time. However, Celestia did catch this but didn’t say anything as she kept her usual stoneface.

After releasing a huff of annoyance. The captain grumbled to herself loudly before motioning towards one of the open gates. Where there was stationed a group of guards that were watching what was going on. From there, five more joined to make a total of eighteen on the guard’s side. Once this was done, the guard captain called out to the robed beings, while using a condescending tone.

“There! I added more just as you requested. I still say that this is overkill for a bunch of mercenaries that came knocking at our door. Can't even imagine why you would even come to our country to begin with, other than to take advantage of our generosity.” The one that spoke up on the visitor’s side could be seen giving a light shrug as she was raising both of their arms in a, whatever gesture, before responding in a flat tone that just said that they didn't really care.

“You have already miss judge the strength of your opponents before anything has even been shown. It would appear being sent here is an action that is most needed for your country as well as the others that you are allied with.”

“It makes one wonder, about just how many of your battles have been lost due to incompetence and the pure lack of common sense. I have heard from my teacher, a saying that has stuck with me. One that I believe you yourself, should learn if you are going to continue with leading others. You can never defeat another, if you know not how to defeat yourself.”

The captain had a screwed-up expression before she called out in an agitated tone. “What does that even mean when it comes to this?!” She was immediately answered with, “We already know how the guard’s fight. Now tell me, do you know exactly what your limitations are and where are you are lacking?

Clearly getting extremely frustrated at this. The captain immediately gave a signal for his troops to get into formation. This being a standard half circle where they would be able to have a focused line-of-sight upon the thirteen that they were fighting, while being evenly spaced out with two meters in-between.

Thanks to Celestia's heightened senses, due to some spells being used on top of one another. She was able to not only perceive all withing the arena as a hawk could, but could also hear and sense it all as though she was standing right in the middle of it. She then had to quirk and eyebrow upon what she managed to hear coming from the one who was speaking this whole time.

While giving a defeated sigh, the Pegasus slightly turned her head to the others that came with her before speaking. “We are not being taken seriously. Going all out on them would prove nothing. We will be using the standard dungeon group formation.”

“If they had not gone with such a small group, then we all might have had a go. So, it'll just be myself, one Healer and two damage dealers for this. Max gear will not be required. Only what you can hold in your hands, that understood?” This got a nod from all of those in line and the next to happen, was one of the Green robes, which turned out to be a Minotaur and two Reds comprised of the young Dragon and an Earth pony, had come forth.

What caught Celestia's attention, was how they had pulled out from underneath their robes their weapons, but they didn't quite go with what she had expected. With a curious expression, she gazed upon the Blue who was carrying a buckle shield and a short sword. Celestia had never heard of a Pegasus being on the front lines to use a shield before. This was due to them being lighter on their feet but not the best at taking heavy hits.

When it came to the Minotaur wearing Green robes, he was fairly big. Not as tall as Celestia, but close. She had thought him to be using a large weapon. Instead, what she got was him pulling out from his sleeve a branch with a few leaves still on it and holding it in front of himself. While his other hand was hovering near it.

When it came to the first of the Reds. This one being the Earth pony mare with a red tone and a blonde Mane. She pulled out from underneath her robes, her own small square shield made of wood that seemed as though it was not going to offer much protection and a wand that was barely the length of her elbow to her fingertips. The wand was held in the same manner as the green robe Minotaur.

When it came to the only Dragon in their group. She was green and color, with gold spines that could be seen protruding from the back of her head in a pair of short horns. From what Celestia could tell, she had a pair of wings but they were folded in and clearly not being prepped for use of flight.

She already had her weapon on display as it was hanging off of her back and was that of a longbow and a set of arrows that were ready to be used in their quiver. Celestia knew that dragons were known for their strength and speed, along with their fire breath. But not once has she ever heard of one using a bow and arrow.

The Captain, along with the other Royal Guard, seem to be mirroring her thoughts, although they were much more loudly when doing so. “Hey girls! Take a look at what they got going on for their side! OK, you five cadets need to take a note! This is exactly what you should not do when you assign weaponry. They got a Pegasus working the front lines with a shield. They also got a Earth Pony and a Minotaur fighting with sticks. But the biggest mistake of all, is giving a bow and arrow to a dragon! Every Pony knows that there are the heavy hitters!”

“Let's get this farce over with! The Princess has better things to do with her time! Hear this! No need to go all out! Do whatever it is you all want to do, just make sure that they go down!” Afterwards, the lined-up group had pretty much broken down with each of them doing their own thing, while recklessly charging in thanks to their captain’s order.

With them clearly not taking this exercise seriously. Celestia had to contain herself from showing how disappointed she felt towards her Guard Captain. Even she herself had doubts as to how well the robed fighters would handle themselves with their current gear setup. But even she knew that taking it too lightly, would end up with a pony getting bit in the tail if not careful.

However, her worries were completely founded upon what happened next. The set of guards that were in heavy armor and using a mix of sword and shield, along with some Spears. Had rushed the Pegasus that was standing in front of their small group.

She has not even made any attempts at all into raising the items in either hand as they were just laying straight down when the group had finally reached her. The only thing the mare did, was to shift her right leg back for a more stable stance in response to the angle of the attacks that were coming.

Without missing a beat, Celestia saw how her body quickly shined with a gold light as it covered her form completely just as the first weapon, which turned out to be a spear, was about to make contact with her chest. But right as it did. Celestia could see how the one holding the Spears handle had come to a jerking stop. This was followed with the spear itself snapped off just a few inches from where the blade was set at the end.

The next attacks came from the rest. Who had just caught up and swung their weapons which their swords from varying angles. Only to have a similar result with the spear as a shower of sparks were emitted and there was a resounding metallic clang from multiple blades that echoed into the air.

They were then quickly dispatched with a series of sword techniques that Celestia did not think would have been possible to pull off so quickly. These being a mix of single target swings and wide arc, which had the Pegasus doing a spin in place and sending all the guards that were within range flying and remained unconscious, if not banged up on the dirt covered ground after landing.

The next one that ended up catching Celestia’s eye. Was the Dragon who had already launched a flurry of arrows by firing them all at once. As a result, the Dragon archer had already pinned down a few guards. And when she meant pinned down, she actually meant literally as the arrows had missed vital points and has gone through their armor and stuck themselves into the floor.

There was even one of the guard mare’s, who was receiving arrow after arrow. Only to have each and every one of them chipping away at sections of her armor until the plating had fallen off of her body once the last of the straps were cut by the fast-moving projectiles.

This revealing her to not be within her usual assigned undergarments when wearing the gear. But instead, she was sporting a set of blue lacy undergarments of the more stimulating nature. Once that was done, the mare in question had immediately dropped their weapons and scurried out of the training area. Obviously to find something else to wear.

Celestia tried desperately to contain her laughter as she looked forward to the next spectacle. This one being a group of four of her guards charging together in an attempt to rush the one Minotaur in the Green robes. After about a second or two of what she could only describe as channeling magic. He was now radiating a type of light off of the branch that he was holding. Celestia then could see a nearly imperceptible bolt of magic that was hurtling towards the group of oncoming guards.

Once it had made contact with the one in front, there was a brief burst of magic that washed over the group of four and before they even took a single extra step forward, they found themselves already crumpled onto the ground and loudly snoring logs. It seemed that the Guard Captain had saw that and started screaming at them to get up or they would have been punished with doing a thousand laps around the castle. Much to her dismay, that did nothing to stir them awake.

When Celestia had turned her sights over to the last member. The alabaster alicorn had nearly dropped her jaw upon witnessing an eruption of fire that had just sent two of her guards flying a good distance, before they landed on the ground and toppled over a few times before finally coming to a stop.

The rest that was still in combat, had gotten close to where there are just a few paces away from being able to strike at the one who launched the fireball a second before. But they were stopped in their tracks when they were instantly caught in a block of ice that came out from just underneath their hoofs in the time it took one to blink.

Luckily enough, they weren't completely incased, but their limbs were locked up right as their weapons came within a few inches of reaching their mark. Although, it was clearly evident with the way that their teeth were chattering away so loudly, that they were pretty much giving up and wanted nothing more than to be in front of a roaring fire right now.

The full match from start to finish, had barely lasted for even a full minute until all of her guards were either incapacitated, knocked out or made to run for the nearest locker room. While sitting in her chair and halfway in a position to show that she was about to stand on her legs. Celestia was almost slack jawed at witnessing all of this.

She knew full well that all of the guards that were selected for this mock battle, were in truth her best. But to be taken out in such a way, only made them appear to be no better than a fresh batch of recruits that could have only started that very day. While all eighteen were down for the count. Not even a single one of the four members had even been touched. Aside from the Pegasus who didn’t even show a single scratch. More so that they made it appear as though they had put little effort into doing so.

As for Captain Far Cry. She was completely beside herself and had crumpled down onto her knee. She even had this blank expression that said that she had clocked out within her own mind at what she just witnessed. All that talk about being the best of the best. Then having this done, must have been a heavy blow to the mare’s ego.

It had taken a few moments for Celestia to recover and declare the visitors as the victors of the mock battle. She was just about to call for a medic team in order to see to her guard’s injuries. But was interrupted when she saw that the Minotaur that was wearing the green robes, had stepped forth and was now in the center of the sprawled-out guards on the arena.

He then began to radiate a pulsing light that washed over them all and Celestia was again astonished when they all began to either wake up from whatever spell they were put under. Along with those that had received injuries, only to appear as though they had received none in the first place only moments after the odd magic was cast.

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: Dining room*
*Time: Back in the present*

Luna has been sitting silently as she was listening to the recounts of the thirteen that came to visit her sister that day. She was clearly enthralled after hearing about how they fought and was intrigued in the manner in which they did so. After taking a moment to go over what she could in her mind. Luna then looked back to her older sister before asking a few questions that came to mind.

“And you said that an Earth Pony use the magic to make a large fiery explosion and right after, they froze some guards... Are you absolutely sure of that?” After getting a quick nod from Celestia. She then went on to her next question. “I can't help but to point out how much of a contradiction each one of those races are when it came to how they conducted themselves during the battle. Do you suppose there was a reason for such a formation when it came to the weapons they used?”

Celestia had just taken a sip of her drink and had set it down, while having a thoughtful expression before she answered. “I believe I did inquire as to that once. I was told that it was to prove a point about how it does not matter what race one is. There are techniques which allows even an Earth Pony to cast magic. Also, those that allow one to do physical feats which would otherwise be seen as impossible to do. Such as allowing a Pegasus to become a living fortress and repel so many of our trained guards with ease.”

Luna then began to hum herself as her expression turn slightly serious. After a few seconds of this. She looked towards her older sister before beginning to speak and a cautious tone. “I still cannot fathom that one who is not a unicorn, could even be capable of using magic. It does undo the very notion that one must have a horn in order to use such abilities. Pray tell, how did you react to learning of this?”

Her older sister then released a long sigh, before she had this tired expression on her face. She then answered by saying, “I could tell you this Luna... I was worried. I was so very worried. At first, I didn't know if they were a threat or possibly an unknown cult that got their hands on magical artifacts. The nobles upon catching wind of it began to accuse them. Using the excuse of teaching as a way to brainwash those of the working class into overthrowing them.”

“At first, I did not accept their plans on opening any of their schools for a while and told them that I would have to think it over carefully. To my surprise, they left without much effort and went out into Equestria. I of course had them placed under constant surveillance as they made their way from one town to the next. I had assumed that they would spread word of their ideas and try to recruit as many followers as they could. But to my surprise, all they did was protect the town's and lend assistance in everyday matters.”

“Not once did any of my spies that I had ordered to tail them, send me any documents that they said even a single word about the schools. And yes, there was an uproar among our citizens about the discovery of magic that any race was capable of using.”

“There were even cases where a representative from one of the places that they had gone to help coming to the castle for Day Court. The pony had questions as to why it was that the guards were being outdone so easily. Also, why the ones that were meant to protect them, were not trained in the same way of fighting off the monsters.”

“This would keep on continuing until I would end up getting at least one every day from various locations, all of which asking pretty much the same. Even those that were against them being in Equestria would end up dwindling in numbers. At one time, I had finally reached my decision and sent a messenger. The request was that they return to the castle, in order to discuss their plans.”

Luna had let out a curious hum before she started to speak. “I take it that once they returned. They were not so willing to give up their secrets and wished to keep the schools in order to train a personal army perhaps? Such skills most likely being well guarded from outsiders.” This got a firm head shake from Celestia as she answered that question. “Oh no! Quite the opposite in fact.”

“We had a private meeting that went fairly long and they gave me quite a bit to think over. As it turns out, we Unicorns use the energy within our bodies to produce our spells. However, whether it be for magic or to use those weapons skills of theirs. They use something that they referred to as Aether.”

“In essence, they believe it to be the building blocks as they refer to. That make up both energy and matter. Due to their training and using such a force, they are capable of doing so much. They appear to have a number of sources in which each of their teachings tap into such power.”

“I had thought about them simply telling us how to do it so we can teach our own. But they were very adamant about what would happen if taking the principles of which they just told me about and just forcing it on to another without proper training from those who have done so already. It would be the same as a filly tapping into an unknown power that would overwhelm their body and could do serious harm or even lead to one’s death, if not guided properly.”

Luna was now tapping her chin and giving Celestia a dubious look. Then asked, “Hmm… Well then, how much of the treasury was diverted in order to build these institutions?” This got an awkward smile from Celestia, before she went back and took another bite of her breakfast before answering.

“Now that's the curious part. It would appear that they have some financial backing, thanks to their many deeds from traveling it would seem. That and they said they had enough money saved up to fund it themselves. Honestly, both I and also my financial advisors could not seem to figure out just where they got the accumulated income to be able to build not just one, but all three. Even now, there's been some talk about some of the earlier students going overseas an opening up their own in the Griffin Empire. As well as over on the Zebra lands.”

The little sister who was in the middle of eating another bite of her food. Had nearly choked and had to hit her chest with her left fist a few times to clear her throat and spit out what got stuck. She then stared up at Celestia with wide eyes, filled with disbelief. After letting out a few more coughs. Luna loudly explained, while partially standing up from her chair in clear surprise.

“Are you implying that they had enough Bits to do all of that on their own? I remember being told that the one that is near to us, is nearly the size of our own castle itself! But-But... We must be covering the costs somehow, right? Oh, dear sister… Please don't tell me that we were funding their operation or that they are asking an exorbitant amount of bits from our citizen for entrance fees. And please do not shake your head again, because even I, from my thousand years of banishment could easily tell keeping such facilities to be kept open, would be a major drain on capitol.”

All Celestia could do, was to give a tired sigh before slightly leaning onto her right hand. That had an elbow on the table and gave Luna a flat look before replying. “Luna, do you happen to know what are the biggest businesses that are currently running in Equestria right now? If you don't, then let me.”

“For one, there is the company known as, Tech Hex Institute of Science. There have been great strides in technology within the past decade because of that company’s many contributions to not only Equestria, but to the other countries overseas. They happened to be one of the biggest sources of revenue for the schools through its donations.”

“They're the ones who introduced the Radio. Along with the Golems that are used in both Construction and Defense of our towns and cities. We even have a few of them on the castle grounds and I know for a fact, that one has been outfitted for training purposes by the guard’s request in order to get them used to fighting large opponents.”

“There is even been this marvelous invention called a microwave that has made life so much more convenient when heating up food at one's home. Even the Airships have greatly improved in their designs. But those are just a few of the many items that came from them.”

The point is, that none have to pay for attending these schools. There's even room and board along with meals included. Safety guidelines are strictly enforced and no one student has more privileges than the next. I so wished that you could have seen it Luna. You have no idea just how many of the Nobles came up to me during Day Court to complain on how their sons and daughters were not getting the proper treatment or the special privileges that they believe that they should have when attending these institutions.”

Celestia then gave off a small laugh while covering her mouth, before going on. “Between you and me. I think that it was a good opportunity to teach the young ones the meaning of hard work and not relying on their titles. Sure, there were some that dropped out due to bad conduct. But those that stayed have changed for the better I believe.”

Luna was now back to eating her food. But had put aside the parts that she had coughed up and was looking at them with a critical eye, as if daring it to cause her harm once more like some pouting child. When Celestia had noticed this, she quickly had a small smirk growing on her lips as she closed her eyes to take another bite of her food. Before she started to casually say the next part.

“By the way Luna, did you happen to know that there is this one combat class in particular, that has to deal with the stars?” This had immediately caught the younger sister's attention as she was clearly excited by this, when her ears shot straight up and was now fixated on Celestia with laser focus. Having clearly been getting the, please tell me everything you know look, from her little sister. Celestia then went on.

“One of them is called the, Astrologian. if I am correct, then I believe it is a healing job that uses a combination of divination, cards, and the stars to heal and support their allies. Well, that is what I remember them saying that was. Also, listen to this. Out of all of them, only one of the schools teaches this class and it just so happens to be the one that is just a short flight from here.”

As she was going on. She could plainly see that her younger sister’s eyes were beginning to sparkle at what was being said. There was even this brief instant at the very end where she was positive, she was going to need to have a spell ready in order to hold her sister down with the way she was pretty much vibrating in her seat.

As for the proverbial icing on the cake. Celestia continued. “You know Luna, they don't have classes only during the day. They even hold them during the night. Perhaps, when you feel up to it, you may want to drop by and inspect it for yourself. We even have a few of our castle staff who have taken on to learning how to be one of these Astrologian’s. Perhaps you might want to ask them for more details, hmmm?”

By then, Luna’s mind was racing with thoughts of finishing her meal and asking one of her night guards if they knew of any of the ponies who had taken the course to becoming a Astrologian. But before she returned to her meal. Celestia began to think to herself. “If I didn't know any better, then one might presume that this was all orchestrated for my sister, in regards to this one in particular being taught so close to the castle.”

*Point of view: Third person*
*Location: Hotel room in Ponyville*

The mound of ruffled up bed sheets had just started to shift on the bed. Soon popped out a single long foot that resembled a feline. From there, a set of claws were partially extended as it was clearly giving a good stretch before there was a grumble from underneath the covers and Gilda’s head poked out, while looking extremely groggy with only one eye partly open and her feathers disheveled from the way she slept.

Just a few paces away from her bed, was Brex sitting at a table, while looking down at something. Gilda had just shaken her head a few times and had brought up her left hand and ran it down her face in order to wipe away the drowsiness, before glancing over in his direction.

At first, she seemed rather confused, but after a few moments of blinking. She had let out a not so amused huff from her nose before throwing the covers off with enough strength that they were now laying on the floor as half of it was going over the edge of the bed itself.

The Griffin had just landed with both feet onto the floor and hadn't even taken a single step, before she heard Brex calling out in a flat tone without even turning his mask towards her. “Gilda, we don't own this place, we are only renting. How would you like it if a total stranger was to roughly handle your belongings in the same way that you just did? Now go and at least make sure that is not on the floor. Once you're ready to go, we will be heading down to the front desk and getting you your own room to stay in.”

Gilda was clearly upset with the way that she was balling her hands into a set of fists and giving a deep scowl to the Roegadyn. But the attitude quickly came to an end when he turned his mask extremely slowly towards her, while changing his tone to that of wicked playfulness.

“Please don't tell me that the little birdie has already forgotten about the promise we made last night? Who knows, I might just drag you outside in the middle of the street when they have all the fruit stalls set up and give you a light spanking in front of all those... Hmmm... Now what did you call them? Ahh! That's right, you referred to them as “Lame ponies.” Just imagine what your reputation would be like while you're forced to live here for a while with that looming over your head”.

Gilda was clearly giving it a long moment to think things through. As her face had managed to turn nearly red through her feathers. This was before letting out a feral growl as she relented and went back over to pick up the blanket and threw it on top of the bed.

She then turned to Brex as she came closer to see just what he was looking at. “Just what is it that an oversized dweeb like yourself is doing right now?” When she had finished speaking, she was standing right next to him and leaning in somewhat. Her hands resting on both of her hips and having a very perplexed look on her face as she slightly tilted her head to one side.

Brex had returned his attention to the table and gave a light shrug as he had placed what looked to be a large version of a playing card of sorts down alongside another to make a complete set of three going across, while three down. He then started to speak as he slowly turned one card over after another. “Oh, nothing much. I just thought I'd change up how I do things today sense I got a little bored. Since you still needed time to get ready, I went ahead and gave this a quick whirl. Have you ever heard of tarot card readings?”

Gilded quickly shook head and gave off this impression that she didn't really care what he was talking about. The Griffin then turned on the spot and was heading towards the bathroom, while speaking in a condescending tone. “I have no idea what it is you're talking about, but I'm pretty sure it's something really stupid. So just leave me out of it! Don’t want the dorkiness you got to rub off on me! Also, you better not let me catch you peaking on me in here!”

“Sheesh! Not only am I stuck in this deadbeat town and have to take orders from you! Now I got to listen to nonsense!” When she was nearly about to close the door behind herself once she had gone inside of the bathroom. Gilda heard him saying the following and this caught her attention immediately as she left the door just partly cracked open to hear him.

“Oh well, it's not for everyone. It's just a fun way to pass the time. Who doesn't want to try their hand at learning what's going to happen in the future? Hmm... let's see what's going to happen today?”

He had just hummed to himself a few more times as the sound of cards we're shifting on the wooden table as he flipped one after another. After a few seconds of this, he then continued in an amused tone. “I don’t think that the stars must not be lined up too well for me today. I doubt very much that this is going to be happening. Hmm… Maybe I did it wrong?”

After that, Gilda slowly closed the door the rest of the way in order to not let it be known that she was eavesdropping. She then gave a small snort of annoying before she took a few steps in and started to undress in order to give herself a quick shower. However, just as she was getting in and the water that had already started up in filling the tub. The Griffin had accidentally slipped on a small bit of water that had splashed onto the tiled floor near the tubs edge.

As a result, she went tumbling forward and she attempted to grab onto the shower curtain to stabilize her fall. But it began to detach from the rings thanks to her weight and ripped a portion as she pulled them loose. Thanks to this, Gilda ended up doing an odd spin as her limbs flailed in a clumsy manner.

By the time she had landed butt first into the tub that had been nearly a quarter of the way full of water. The young female Griffin had been partly wrapped up with her arms trapped by some of the shower curtain and her left leg was being strung up as her claws had ripped into what was left that was still attached to the shower railing.

After clearly hearing the commotion. Brex rushed into the bathroom and as soon as he had taken a step inside, he got to have a good view of Gilda in her current state. What's more was how she was in a position that her privates down below were in full view just that she had regained her bearings.

After seeing the young Griffin in such a compromising state. Brex slowly turned away while giving out a small huff of annoyance and closed the door on his way out. But not before saying loud enough for Gilda to hear. “I guess the reading was correct. I was going to end up seeing an unexpected sight as a result of an unlikely series of events in the near future.”

Gilda on the other hand. Who was still in her current state, had not moved even a single feather as her eyes or comically wide. There was then a sudden loud scream that came from her mouth as she quickly tore herself free in order to cover herself with both her arms and wings. While doing this, she had a heavy blush that was exploding across her cheeks and clearing fighting back tears that were a mixture of extreme anger and embarrassment.