A Roegadyn in Equestria

A Roegadyn in Equestria.

Chapter 64: Day of The Gala. Part Three.

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: Canterlot castle*
*Time: Five Fifty-Six at night. Four minutes before the festivities begin*

Princess Celestia was already at the top of the stairway that was constructed in a way, so there were two directions one might take to go down the steps and into the lower areas that the rest of the party was being held. The room itself was so massive, that if it was compared to anything. Then an entire high school gymnasium could have easily fit within the walls itself.

With the basic layout being that of a long rectangle. There were two evenly spaced out exits on both sides that led to either the garden on the left and a patio overlooking the rest of Canterlot on the right for those that wanted a nice view from an elevated height. This was thanks to the castle being made so that it overlooked the rest of Canterlot.

On the far end from Celestia's position was another exit. On said lower floor that led to other parts of the castle and happened to be where most of the chefs and waiters would come and go to either restock the buffet tables or to come back with wine and small trays filled with tiny bits of food to be brought around. This just so happened to be located right nearby to where the musicians would be set up on a stage that was clearly built for this specific occasion. The ceiling itself was so tall that the windows were easily going more than three stories up.

The ceiling itself was dotted with nine evenly spread-out chandeliers. While the floor was set up so that a majority of the center would be kept clear for those who wish to mingle or perhaps dance when the mood struck. The outer edges were lined with multiple round tables with enough chairs to comfortably seat ten occupants altogether at each one.

Of course, this also meant that the long buffet table was set up nearby and it was covered from one end to the other with a wide assortment of dishes that were prepared by the top-notch chefs from all over Equestria that were invited to cater this event. As per the norm Celestia spared no expense in making sure that her guests were properly taken care of.

Even if it meant having those that were willing to cook meat. Personally, she didn’t have too much of a problem as long as it was not a sentient life of course but her subjects weren’t quite as open as she was and there were times that a few of her regular kitchen staff would end up running out of the kitchen during some of the past Gala’s.

As for the musicians, they were finishing the last minute of their instruments fine tuning. Celestia turned after hearing some footsteps approaching and grew a sincere smile that graced her lips upon catching the sight of her nephew entering through the front doors and approaching. While also fiddling with his shirt collar with both of his hands. At the moment, Prince Blue Blood had a slightly aggravated expression as he gave a small huff of annoyance as he was looking down at himself.

The young prince was currently wearing a dress uniform meant for the royal guard, which was mostly white and color but had some patches of blue here and there along the edges of his sleeves and around the collar of his shirt. The shoulders themselves had some padding over the top and attached to those, were a few pieces of these golden braided ropes that started at the halfway point along his shoulders and swung down before going back up again at the end. He even had on a belt that was currently keeping a hold of his sword and scabbard at his left hip.

Celestia gave a small chuckle and approached her nephew and started to fix his shirt a little with her hands as she playfully spoke. Allow me. “It's so unlike you nephew, to have so much trouble with your clothing.” Her eyes then trailed down to the weapon in his care and raised an eyebrow, along with a small smile to go along with it as she continued. “And pray tell, what would be the use of brandishing your sword at such an esteemed gathering?”

Prince Blue Blood gave a mocking scoff to what she said before placing on an overly pompous air of arrogance. All the while, throwing his head slightly to allow his golden mean to do that overly exaggerated flipping motion as he spoke. “Why auntie. You of all should know the purpose of this.” That was when he lightly started to pat the side of his sword with his left hand while continuing with his attitude returning to normal as it became more jovial.

“It's to keep all those pretentious parasites away if it should ever come to pass that I am found in a situation that warrants physical means of escape. And as for my slight wardrobe malfunction. That has to do with me giving my attendant the night off to enjoy the party. I'm quite surprised how difficult it is to get dressed in such a stuffy Formal Wear all on one's own.”

Celestia gave her nephew a small giggle as she was finishing up with the last little alterations to the collar so that it was not sticking out at any awkward angles. She then said, “So, that is where that supposed ticket went off too. I did think you were spending an awful lot of time with that personal maid of yours.” At the end of that comment. Her face was back to its normal composed self, yet there was this tiny hint of a sly smile on the edge of her lips as she made that last observation.

Prince Blue Blood started to stutter as he was clearly not expecting this from Celestia. But immediately recovered as he looked away from his aunt. He then replied while looking a little embarrassed and already readjusting his collar and nearly messing up all the work that was done in the process. “Auntie! Could you please not tease me so, especially on a day like this? I only thought that she should enjoy herself with all the hard work she's put in over the years.”

Celestia's sly smile only grew a fraction bigger as she replied to that. “Has she not attended as your servant on all the previous Grand Galloping Gala's since becoming your personal maid? What makes this year so special?” Blue blood closed his eyes after re-composing himself before he replied in a more dignified tone. I merely want her to enjoy herself for once and not feel need or obligation to be glued to me for the whole party. So please, don't try to look too much into this.”

He then had a thoughtful expression as he turned to her once again in order to ask his own question. “Is auntie Luna going to attend the festivities?” This got Celestia to look a little downcast, as she lightly shook her head before saying the following. “I'm afraid all my efforts were for not. Perhaps it was too soon and I was only forcing my views. Perhaps it was still too soon.”

Blue blood looked utterly disappointed at hearing this and gave a tired sigh as he motioned towards the lower doors on the other side of the room as he spoke up. “Such a shame. This only means that we will have to try and get her to join the next event with twice as much effort on our part. I'm sorry auntie, but I need to head down and check on the rest of the preparations as my last rounds.” He then looked utterly appalled for a split second as he muttered the next part from under his breath, but made sure it was just loud enough for only his aunt Celestia to hear.

“I'd much rather tangle with one of those overgrown plant monsters that tend to spew that toxic breath, then to mingle with so many of those uptight nobles that think of no one but themselves. Unlike the monster, I can't go slaying them when they make an inappropriate move or spew that nonsense from their own maws.” And with that, Blue Blood quickly took his leave by heading down the steps.

As he was going to the lower floor. Celestia couldn't help but to linger on his words and try to picture the creature in her head that he described. Of course, it didn't take her very long to come up with a mental picture and visibly shuttered at the thought.

But then, Her Imagination began to run away as she pictured the nobles taking on those shapes and wearing obnoxious hats and dresses on either their heads or lower parts of their body. She then said under her breath, “I suppose he isn't all that far off. Just great… I'm not going to be able to get that mental picture out of my head for a while.”

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: Canterlot castle. Just outside of the front gates*
*Time: Six-twenty at night*

The scene shows what could be easily described as what one would come across, when looking at a red-carpet premiere with how there was a crowd on the other side of a velvet rope and a very wide and clean red carpet going down the steps until they met the road below. There were quite a few ponies with old style cameras that were just a little more modern than the types that required a large flash bulb or explosive powder to create a bright enough light to take a picture.

Along those, were ponies hoping to somehow sneak in or get some kind of interview out of anyone that would come close enough to hear them calling over the rest of the crowd. This was mostly done by those with paper and quill in hand. While some carried blocky recording devices that were about the size of one of those old-style car phones from back when they were the size of bricks.

The Royal Guards that were on duty were decked out and they're very best polished armor and standing watch at key locations around the castle. While at the same time, Luna's Night Guard were secretly keeping an eye on everything from up above and within any shadows that were available. Normally, the two guards would hardly ever work together but with such an important gathering, they deemed it necessary to go all out for a joint operation.

Even some of the staff who were wearing serving uniforms. Turned out to be some of the Royal Guards in disguise as an extra security precaution in case something should slip past the outer defenses. Now as for the reason of all of this. It mostly coincided with so many dignitaries and wanting to make sure that their safety was Paramount.

This also coincided with protecting their goods as this was a perfect opportunity for private trades to be done among the leaders. They would either be protected by their own security within their rooms or stashed away and the Royal Vault to be accessed later on. Through a complicated security checking process and having their own section within said vault, that they themselves would have a key for. Along with a magical enchantment that would require either the princesses or the visiting dignitary to be the only ones that could even touch the lock boxes within that held their goods.

As for the guests. Pretty much every country would have gotten a ticket or two in order to send their own representative. Of course, a few couldn't attend due to matters that require their full attention back at their own lands, but this didn't mean that there wasn't quite a group in this year's festivities. On one side of the room near the food table. One could easily spot a mix of species that were either staying in their own little group or mingling with others.

The following species could be seen all over the place. which included, Ponies from all three of the tribes. A handful of Griffins. A total of four large Yaks that were being quite loud while drinking. Three Minotaur’s who were in the middle of trying to chat up one of the guards and eyeing their armor as if it were candy and making the mare look a little disturbed in the process. Surprisingly enough, there were two parties that were right next to one another, yet no visible problems could be seen. The ones in question turned out to be two Diamond Dogs and a group of four Cats.

Unfortunately, among the few that couldn't make it. Turned out to be the representatives from the Dragon’s and Kirin’s. Seeing as both Luna and Celestia were quite keen on talking to one of them and regards to the similarities of their culture and what they saw in one of Gambit's dreams. Yet ironically enough, none of the usual members that would usually attend the Gala came from Zebrabwe. Even with all of this, the music and festivities were already on the way and everything was going according to plan.

That was when the doors opened for the next group of partygoers to enter and this revealed Twilight, Spike, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. Of course, just like it did in the show, the entire group ended up dashing off and leaving their Pony shaped dust clouds for only a second.

At the end of that. It was only Spike standing there and looking utterly defeated as he slouched and allowed his arms to just dangle, while waddling off in some direction all by himself. But just as he was leaving, he could be heard grumbling to himself as he said the following. “I didn't really want to hang out with all of you anyway. Maybe I could find Blue Blood somewhere. Knowing him, he’d be more than happy to sneak away and play a game of cards to pass the time.”

But thankfully enough, the party-goers didn't go straight to their main activities as they were wandering around in either groups of three or two. While Twilight approached her mentor and attempted to have a chat with her, as Celestia greeted the incoming guests. Applejack and Rainbow were at the snack table and looking over what was available. Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Fluttershy were together as they were taking in the sites and slowly but surely getting closer to the stage where the music was playing.

Of course, all the girls were getting some positive compliments thanks to the dresses that Rarity made. Which only caused her to be more ecstatic with every time she heard them praising the designs. Whereas Pinkie was pretty much oblivious and Fluttershy was living up to her name and trying to hide herself behind Rarity whenever she felt eyes being drawn towards herself.

Unfortunately for Fluttershy. This Dynamic didn't exactly hold up for very long and the group ended up splitting up even further once their prospective targets were locked on. Applejack didn't really care much for the food and immediately made her way over to an open area just passed the doors that would lead towards the garden in order to start setting up her stand so that she could sell her families goods to the upper class for some extra bits.

As for Fluttershy, she continued down that same direction and was heading straight for the garden in hopes of meeting the animals. Pinkie was pretty much bouncing all over the place and trying to gain the attention of the band, who were in the middle of their musical number. When it came to Rarity, she soon locked eyes onto Blue Blood who was just minding his own business near one of the exits that would lead to the terrace and allow one to get a good view of the city and made a quick beeline for the stallion.

When it came to Rainbow, she was already trying to gain the attention of some of the Wonderbolts that could be seen in the VIP area but was having trouble with getting close with how the team was already being swarmed with fans. But of course, Twilight was still with Celestia. But thanks to the constant flood of new arrivals every other second. She was unable to get so much as a complete sentence in, before Celestia’s attention was pulled away for another meet and greet.

As it was getting closer to seven at night. The next group came in and was quickly announced by one of the guards just like all the others that came in beforehand. Although it seemed that this quickly caught the attention of not only a handful of the guests. But Twilight and Celestia the most as they were pretty much stopped in mid-sentence with their current greeting and looking over towards the door.

“Announcing the President of, Tech Hex Institute of Science. The appointed envoy of Zebrabwe and guests!” Once the announcement was made, there was a chorus of mumbling between the guests along with plane looks of shock that crossed not only them. But both Celestia and Twilight at the same time who were nearly dropping their jaws from what the guard just said. From within the crowd, a noble mare’s voice could be heard just above the others as she spoke out and clear surprise and disbelief. “Did they just say the President of T H I S is here?! No ponies ever set eyes on the President of that Corporation!”

Of course, nearly all eyes were glued to the top of the steps. But at this very moment, all was being drowned out by the multitude of flashes from the photographers just outside the still open door. It wasn't until they were closed yet again and removed the obstruction from everyone's eyes before they caught sight of just who it was.

First, there was a female Zebra decked out and a very stylish dress made of both fur and cloth. This turned out to be Zecora and she was wearing something that was vaguely similar to her usual attire. But obviously it was for more a formal setting as she was wearing a gold-plated sash and a few more gold bands on her arms and legs that did not clash at all with the striped fur that was around her waist and draped over her shoulders as a shawl.

Her hair was down in the same way it was during the first leg of their ship ride and she gave off this air of Elegance as she gracefully walked on the marble flooring. To the guests she had this way of appearing to be one of those who would belong at such an event but to those that knew her, they could easily tell that she was giving off this feeling that a huge weight was finally lifted off her back thanks to the smile she sported.

(Here is a picture of the outfit that Rory Mercury is wearing.)

The next one to be looked upon, turned out to be Rory Mercury and she was wearing a flowing dress. The right arm was covered from the elbow going down so that it acted as an arm guard. As for the left arm. That one had this thick gold band that was half way up from the elbow to hold some of the fabric to go down and expose the rest of said arm. The jewels for the neckline, above the navel and knee sections for the leggings were of a brilliant teal color. The gold decorations in the fabric itself, was real threads of woven gold.

As for her left wrist, there was a gold bracelet. She didn't really need any makeup at all aside from her usual-colored lips that were now pink and some light eye shadowing, but that was pretty much it and it only made her natural beauty stand out even more as her red eyes had this confident look. The only other change would have to be the way that her hair was made into a ponytail and a gold accessory to hold it in place.

When it came to the next two. These were of course Rin and Lin. The two were wearing a similar dress to Rory, but with a different color scheme. Although instead of matching the color of their mane’s to their clothing. They instead, did a reversal and wore clothing that went with the other sister’s hair color. This meaning that Rin was wearing black and Lin was the one wearing silver.

The next thing to be different about these two, was the way Rin was seeming far more reserved than normal. Whereas Lin was attempting to soften her sharp gaze. But instead of seeming cheerful. This instead got Lin to have this odd aura that made her seem mysterious and this caught the eyes of quite a few of the males in the room. Of course, this inadvertently caught the attention of the mayors that were with them and they started to scowl, before recomposing themselves only a moment later and attempted to gain back their much-wanted attention.

(Here's a picture of the type of outfit that Gilda would be wearing.)

Next up was a Griffin and she was wearing an outfit with a unique style, as it allowed the full range of one’s movement. Of course, this also included her wings not being impeded in any sort of way. The top piece that looks similar to a hood that had been pulled down, had this long piece that stretched nearly to the floor and there was a slightly glowing blue diamond shaped rock at the end.

However, she did keep on her signature black studded collar around her neck which surprisingly went pretty well with the rest of her clothing. Altogether, it gave off this impression that she was both ready to party. Whether it be to have a good time or tumble with anyone who should get on her bad side that evening.

(Here is the gear that Brex is currently wearing.)

The last member of the group who turned out to be at the very back was slowly being shown, as the five girls were taking a few steps forward and making some room by parting from one another. This of course was none other than Brex, as he was wearing his unique level seventy Red Mage gear, but without his weapon at his hip. His face was firmly covered by a smooth porcelain mask, with a couple of sections carefully cut out to make a simple white opera mask with a happy expression.

However, instead of having everything covered like normal beyond the mask. Brex allowed his black with silver tipped hair to come out from underneath the hat and quickly tied into a low ponytail so that the majority of his neck was covered. As for the front of the neck, that was easily concealed by a small piece of black cloth that was hanging off of the lower half of the mask itself.

Over with Celestia, who was less than several yards away. Her body went completely rigid without anyone else taking the chance to notice her current condition. However, instead having the look of shock or surprise just like everyone else in the room. She had a mix of panic and some other type of emotion that really couldn't be described too well as her body started to tremble. As well as they're being a blush that she was trying very hard to keep down.

Although, with Twilight standing right next to her, it didn't take that long at all before the Unicorn began to sniff the air subconsciously and arched an eyebrow to take a quick glance down at the lower floor for only a second, before bringing it back up to the group that just came in. She then said the following in a somewhat confused tone. “Did they already bring out the cake?”

Yet again, Twilight was completely oblivious by the way Celestia reacted towards that comment and tried to straighten up with this even more intense blush on her face that threatened to cause her head to burst into flames. The Alicorn even pressed her lips to show that she was concentrating extremely hard at that moment, before her expression returned to normal. Although, she was now beginning to sweat a little.

Afterwards, the party of six made their way over to greet Celestia with Brex at the back of the group. It was Twilight who was the first to speak up as she turned towards Zecora with clear interest in her eyes. “Zecora! I can't believe you made it back already and you're here of all places! Rory said that you were going overseas and I thought you were to be gone for a lot longer. Hold on, what's with the sash?”

The Zebra gave a smile to the purple Unicorn, as she looked over her attire before answering. “Very much to both my surprise and joy. I was permitted to return to Equestria as a permanent envoy. It was all due to the new king, that used his authority to pull a few long and short strings.”

It was Gilda that ended up budding in next. As she gave an amused huff before speaking up. “Yeah, the shorty couldn't come this year with the whole getting situated in his new chair. So, he went ahead and made Zecora into whatever she is now to stand in. I’m thinking it’s gonna take a while because they’re either need to build a set of steps or grind down that chair so it’s lower.”

Twilight turned her attention to the Griffin and quickly exclaimed the following. “Gilda! Us girls were really worried when you suddenly went up and disappeared! Rainbow and Rory explained the situation to us later on, but I really wish you would have said something. Even if we weren't that close, we got pretty worried.”

Gilda was looking a little disturbed by this and was avoiding eye contact with the mare, as she was attempting to keep her bad girl façade with her reply. “Tsk! Only thing you need to worry about is what happens to whoever that tries to mess with me. Besides, there was no way in Tartarus that I was going to miss out on an adventure that takes me overseas.”

Twilight then started to really look at Gilda’s attire and tilted her head in clear confusion, as she asked her next question. “Well, that's an interesting dress to wear to the Gala. Did you pick it up during the traveling?” Gilda gave a light scoff as she crossed her arms, while she was also beginning to fidget on the spot. She then closed her eyes and tried to put on a confidence smirk as she said the following in a somewhat embarrassed voice that she was trying very hard to control at first, but sounded normal near the end.

“Oh, this is? It’s… Uh, something Gambit gave me when we got to Zebrabwe. It looks cool and it's got some pretty good enchantments to give a decent boost to my stats. Also, there's no way that any of you are going to catch me wearing a dress to a stuffy party like this.” The next part was whispered just under her breath so that it wasn't picked up on anyone else there as her eyes quickly shifted over towards Brex for but a split second. “There's only going to be one time that I do.”

Unbeknownst to any of them there. Gambit saw that on his chat window in the bottom left-hand corner of his View and internally shuttered. Aside from some small goosebumps from under his clothing. The rest had no idea that he was given a small shock from what Gilda said. The young unicorn after conversing with Gilda turned her attention towards Rory.

Having already expected the question. Rory went ahead and beat Twilight to the punch and quickly said the following, while giving a small smile and a wink. “I already had a ticket. It was hand delivered to me at my place almost two weeks ago by one of the Day Guards. It was a Pegasus and she was wearing some armor that was different from those in town. So, I think she came directly from here.”

“I didn't say anything because the rest of you were a bit too busy. Also, there was no way I was going to attend if my Master wasn't going to make it on time. From being around all of you I was pretty sure you were going to try everything in your power to get me to go along with you and I didn’t want to go through that hassle.”

When Rory said the word, Master. This caused Celestia's eyes to dart between her and Brex repeatedly before fixing themselves on Rory once again, as Twilight replied. “How did you all get here anyway? You weren't even ready to go when we left Ponyville. You would have needed to get dressed, do makeup and your hair done. Not to mention the ride needed to even get to Canterlot. I’m pretty sure the train wasn’t going to be making any stops in time for you to catch that.”

Rory laughed at that before gesturing over her left shoulder with the use of her thumb, before she said, “You could thank Crystal for the transportation issue. Master has a carriage that Crystal could easily pull and held all of us after he got back to Ponyville. In fact, you all pretty much missed each other.”

Now that part was not a lie. Seeing as the Yuna came in pretty low from the direction of the Everfree Forest, after taking a long about route to be on the other side of Ponyville for their approach and they did catch a glimpse of the chariot heading for Canterlot with all of the girls and Spike on board.

After they all got off of the ship. They were accompanied by Crystal who was taking up the rear, who was eventually summoned all the way to the other side of the ocean nearly a week and a half ago. Brex went into his selections of mounts and pulled up the icon that showed a Chocobo pulling a wagon and clicked on it with his mind.

That was when the object appeared to be a fixing itself to Crystal and showed it to be a wagon from his world with a set of balloons on either side to allow it to float off the ground. From there, they all got on board in swiftly made their way over to Canterlot and arrived only a short time after the girls did. The only reason that they were so much later was due to Brex taking a not so direct route, that would allow them to take a good look at the night time life and sites of Canterlot itself before getting to the party.

Although, Brex was pretty surprised when he saw the personal Chocobo keeper from back at HQ already in town, as she was accompanying Rory to their meeting destination at the edge of Ponyville. He inquired as to why she was there and Rory answered with the explanation of how she knew that he was going to be in need of Crystal at some point or another and had her transported over to Ponyville a short time after he left.

After giving it some thought. Rex understood the reasoning and was appreciative of the girl’s hard work and attending to Crystal. Although. he wasn't really quite sure as to why, but he was pretty sure that the changeling in disguise was looking a little nervous and profusely sweating, while giving a big grin as Rory and Gambit were talking with one another.

Of course, what Gambit didn't know was that the changeling arrived in Ponyville only a day or so after he landed in Zebrabwe and Rory ended up being the one to come up with the story, so that the Changeling couldn't be held accountable for Crystal running off on her own. But honestly speaking, Rory didn't hold the Changeling at fault and she knew that her Master wouldn't either. But the girl was so scared that she would be in deep trouble and Rory decided to keep this as a little secret between them.

When it came to Rin and Lin. They simply hanged back a little bit and were quickly introduced by Rory as their maids. From there, they introduced themselves further by giving their names, as well as a set of short bows. However, when it came to Brex. All he did was give a subtle nod when Twilight mentioned that she was glad that he was back and this caused the mare to tilt her head and confusion as to why he wasn't talking.

Celestia, who was taking a back seat to all of this. Soon started to give her own greetings to each of them as they one by one went down the steps. Surprisingly enough, when she got to Brex. She managed to hold her own as she spoke out in her usual calm demeanor that was always present during her time with the rest of her subjects in the throne room. “This is quite a surprise. Although, I am so glad that you were able to come tonight. Would it be possible for us to have a discussion later on?” After a few seconds of silence, Celestia's mask began to crack as she was looking a bit worried.

That was when Gambit turned his attention back to the girls that were already waiting and started to follow without giving any type of indication that he acknowledged her presence or the question at all. Upon seeing this, Twilight quickly stammered out the following to Celestia as they began to converse back and forth with one another.

“Oh, um. I'm sorry, I am so sorry Princess. Hehe-Hehe... Uh, Gambit doesn't really do well with talking to mare’s he doesn't know very well. I'm sure that once the two of you spend some time with one another, then I'm positive that he'll start to open up.”

“Truth be told Twilight… I was not expecting Gambit to be here. Although, I do suspect that his ticket is quite genuine, as we have had many trying to get into the Gala with a fake ticket in the past. All the guards at the entrance have been trained quite well in order to spot these counterfeits. Otherwise, Gambit and the others would not have been able to come in.”

“You didn't send him a ticket? But each one only allows a single guest. I wonder where they got so many tickets to begin with. Oh no! I completely got distracted! Their introduction! Oh wait! The President was in that group! But who is it?! It can't be Zecora. The twins are maids. I never heard anything about Gilda being involved with the company. That leaves only Rory or Gambit to be the President! Princess! You must know who, right? I have so many questions!”

“Hmmm. Of that I am unable to help with. You see young Twilight, I myself have never been allowed on the premises or even in the company of the president of Tech Hex Institute of Science. All correspondence are done with a secretary.”

“WHAT? But-but they're the biggest company in all of Equestria? And you're the Princess. Have you never had any interest in visiting them?”

“Oh Twilight, of course I have. The problem is the land is private property and is such one that I cannot directly be involved in. Sure, I can instill my own level of taxes on their goods, but they're pretty much a self-sustained country of their own if you will. They do not require any outside sources and are completely self-reliant from what my sources tell me. But seeing as they're doing so much good for the rest of Equestria, I have no real need to impose my authority. Although, I would be lying if said that I didn't want to go. But I was denied and every opportunity.”

“But still! You're the Princess, you can do anything you want! Why would they deny access to one of our country's rulers? I for one would think that it would be seen as an honor.”

“For the longest time I was unsure as to the reason of all the dismissals, but after tonight, I believe I might have a picture... Twilight. Could I ask you for a favor?”

“Well yes, of course, just name it.”

“After the party is done. I would like to have some words with you and the rest of your friends in my private study. If I do not find you myself then I will send a guard to retrieve you when it comes close to eleven. If not, then we could postpone until the morning when we all have breakfast together. After all, you, Spike and the rest of your friends will be staying the night. Rooms have already been prepared for our out of state party guests that don’t have sleeping arrangements in the city.

“Okay, I suppose that should be fine. When I get the chance, I'll tell the other girls.”

“Thank you, Twilight.”

As more guests came through and the pair began their arduous task of the meet and greet once more. Celestia was in the back of her mind and beginning to dread what she was going to tell her student and hoped that things would turn out well for not only that meeting, but for the rest of the evening as well. Although, what she really regretted the most, was how she was stuck at the top of the stairs for who knows how long until she was able to get down below.

*Point of view: Brex Mith*

Once Brex got to the bottom of the steps, he released an internal sigh from within his mind after finally getting away from Celestia. If anything, he was pretty surprised with himself with how well it went. He was almost sure that she was going to try something, but it went pretty smoothly. Actually, it was so smooth that it caused warning flags to pop up in his head and he wondered if there was something waiting for him tonight.

That was when he heard Rory in his head as she talked to him in a comforting voice, as she was now hanging off of his right arm. “You see? It went just like scenario number two. It really did help to practice how you would interact with her with the use of the dream realm and setting up some simulations. And here you thought she was going to try and set up a trap.” This got Rory a sigh coming from within Brex as he playfully argued with her, for a little back and forth, while making their way through the groups that were obviously eyeing them both.

“Well, the night is still young and there's always a threat of getting turned to stone on the back of my mind. Who's to say that she's not going to turn this into one of those... Oh. I'm going to stone you after tonight. But I'm just making sure your last day of freedom is the best in the world.”

“I'm pretty sure I can take her out in a fight if I really have too. But Luna's here now and she's pretty much back up to full strength. I'm not sure if I can even win if they both come at me at once. Are we positive that my mental defenses are going to hold up if they try to get inside my head and read my thoughts?”

“Master, I think you really need to try to relax a little bit, this is a party after all. Also, for all that she's done to you in the past, she really hasn't tried to make a move. This could very well be an Equestria that she's actually a good Pony. In the show, she was always good. But I will admit that there have been some questionable decisions.”

“And of course, there's always all the Fanfictions that you have in your head. Quite a large majority of them have her centered as being the bad girl that's always out to destroy the displaced. This could be one of those rare two out of ten moments that she's not out to kill you scenarios.”

“I… It’s just… Uhg! I can't help myself Rory... She's the figurehead of an entire country and can move the freakin Sun. She has almost limitless magical potential and can order a legion of devoted followers to do whatever she says. Heck, she could tell a flat out lie and the masses would take it as fact. To some she’s pretty much a God with the way they look up to her.”

“She's also been around for so long that she has more life experience than any other alive, except for those Immortals that have been around forever. It's not so much out of the realm of possibility that someone in such a seed of power and upbringing wouldn't snap if their order was to be disturbed.”

“Umm. Master? I don't really mean to come off as being someone who has a habit of nitpicking, but a few of those qualities apply to you as well.”

“Huh?!”

“You happen to have a lot of money in the bank and you control some of the most influential companies that this world has ever seen. We quite literally have our own legions willing to do whatever you say back at HQ. The Changeling’s specifically. They pretty much treat you as their God from the way they act.”

“Rory, I’m not some all-powerful being that can move the sun. That’s hardly a comparison.”

“Now Master, you may not have the spell to be able to move the stars and satellites around the planet. But you're capable of going toe-to-toe with the ones that can. And don't forget that you're on good terms with Luna, so I doubt that she's going to jump in and go sword swinging happy on your neck.”

“I know, I know. You got a good point... I just can't help but think that if I lower my guard, then everything's going to suddenly come crashing down all around me. It’s a common trope where as soon as you let down your guard, everything gets turned on its head and I’m trying my best.”

“Oh, I'm very proud of my Master for doing so much. Hehe-Hehe, in fact, did you forget the look on Rin and Lin’s faces when you came out of the room wearing what you are now? They just couldn't peel their eyes off of your hair. They know a thing or two about disguises and they could tell right away it wasn't a fake wig. If they’re gonna react that much to just your hair alone, then I have no idea what they’re going to be like when they see the whole you.”

“Ugh... please! For the love of the twelve! Don't remind me! Even this much is making me feel really uncomfortable in front of so many of these people. I would have worn something to cover up my entire body as normal, if you didn't talk me into this one change in my outfit.”

“Come now Master. who knows how long it will be until we can go to another party and it would be far better to make a good first impression.”

“Good first impression my ass! You're the one getting all the looks from the business types, while the more questionable ones are giving me that, Ooh its eye candy look... I swear, that one over there that we just passed was undressing me with her eyes. I'm just glad that we all discussed that I was going to say very little at this party and rely on you and the others to do the talking.”

“Do you really intend to be completely silent during the whole party just because you don't want Celestia to hear your voice? Don't you think that's just being a little childish?”

“Gerrrrr.... I know how it sounds, but I don't know what to say... I spent over a decade keeping away from her and when she's in my dreams, I have Luna relay everything for me. She happens to be an ancient and manipulative ruler that likes to guide others into doing what she wants without being noticed. In other words, if I give her even the slightest hint that I'll talk to her. Then odds are, she's going to try and drill me for any information she can use later.”

“And there goes my Master's paranoia flaring up once again... Nothing bad is going to happen, and tonight is one of the fun episodes where we get to see Twilight and her friends completely botching their night. All we have to do is sit back, blend into the background and watch the fireworks unfold. Also, it would be best not to forget that we still need to have a few words with those two at some point before we can continue with the whole herd forming idea.”

“Oh… That's right, we still need to nip that in the butt, don't we? I still can't believe that we managed to talk those two down until we got to see each other face to face as a group. I even had one of my doppelgangers start looking through some legal texts when it came to this whole being engaged to Gilda thing. As it turns out, Gilda told both of her aunts and she got their permission through a letter she sent right after the incident occurred in the forest.”

“Oh yeah, I do remember Master mentioning this. As long as two family members acknowledge the custom, then it can hold up in their courtroom. Even if there really isn't any presidents when coming to a situation where a Griffin and a non-Griffin go through the custom, Gilda seems really insistent on it. So, I know I asked this question of you Master. But what do you think Gilda is? Personally, I see her as a type that likes to get it up the ass. And all those piercings suggest that she's really… REALLY! into rough play.”

“Come on Rory! not this again! Do we really need to go and discuss what Gilda is into?! After that night she climbed into my bed, I made sure nothing happened again by giving the girl her own room.”

“Master, and let's not forget that you also came back in the middle of the night after you made your trip over the ocean to hand me a link Pearl to give to Rainbow, while you gave a second one to Gilda so that the both of them could talk to each other every night.”

“Hey! I only did that so when we got back, I wouldn't be buried under a mountain of questions and accusations from Rainbow about what I did and didn't do to Gilda. Also, I didn't want to take the chance of those two breaking up over a long-distance relationship and not being able to talk to one another.”

“Master, in case you were unable to see, I'm rolling my eyes over here. You're really hoping that they would just cave in and forget about forming that herd with us, aren’t you?”

“Can we just stop talking about this for now and leave it for later on? I know this is a very stuck-up party where all you're really doing is eating some expensive food that's priced way too high and made by some really snooty chefs. Then you got all the political talks and backroom dealings that go unknown to the populace. Aside from that, you're really just standing around and doing nothing. Gugh... I really just want to go home already! Oh wait, look at that. someone's starting to talk to us. Oh great, I think I know this one... Fun times all around, yippee... Oh right, and in case you can't see it, I'm rolling my eyes back here.”

By then. the group pretty much started to disperse a little more so it was now just Brex, Rory, along with Rin and Lin. And the one that just started talking to Rory. Turned out to be a female Unicorn, that was being accompanied by a male that looked as though they were brother and sister with the way their Mains and fur coloring, were pretty much the same. That being amber for their mane’s and a azure blue for their fur coloring.

The mare was wearing a party hat with flowers on her head and a dress that looked like it came from the Victorian age. When it came to the male Unicorn. He was wearing something that came from the same era. However, it seemed as though the measurements were a little off and some sections look as though they were form fitting, while others were just a few sizes too big. These parts obviously focusing on the ends of the arms and legs to make them appear as though they were bell bottoms.

The only thing that they had in common in terms of what they were wearing. Was the matching set of gold badges that were on their upper right shoulders. On closer inspection one could see the molding to take on the form of an open book and a quill that was in the middle of writing something into said book. These signified them as members of the royal courts magic and science divisions.

Brex only really remembered them through his doubles eyes during their attempts to get Celestia to give them some type of authority to go and snoop around Tech Hex. Of course, even without looking into it too much. One could easily tell that they wanted to merge it with their organization so that they could eventually take it over. It was actually these two in particular that caused his secretary back at the main office to have her days nearly ruined with another one of their stupid letters. Honestly, he was this close to just ordering those two to be abducted and replaced.

It was the female who introduced herself first of course, as she was the one who initiated the whole contact and had her sights squarely on Rory. “How fortuitous for us to have this random convergence. I go by Azure Pie and this is my little brother, Azure Squared.” Her brother quickly gave a nod as his sister continued. “Now, straight to the point. We have petitioned on numerous occasions, quite frequently might I add, that as you are conducting experiments in our field of expertise-.”

“The Unicorn was abruptly silenced when Rory stepped up quickly and had her face almost an inch away from the mare, as she started to speak herself. “I know who you are Miss Azure Pie. And we have been sending those letters back each and every time with the same answer. We are a privately funded organization and you have no claims on what we do.”

“Just because we are in the same field, it doesn’t mean that you are automatically in charge. Now tell me this. Do you go around and hassle any adventurer that should happen to come up with a good idea off the streets? Do you track them down and try and steal their accomplishments for yourself, even if they went so far as to build a better toaster. Are you going to claim that as your property?”

The mare was visibly startled and was trying to put some words together, as her eyes were crossed in order to look at Rory, who was very much within her personal space. However, it seemed that the brother was slowly nodding from behind, as he was fully agreeing with whatever Rory was saying. However, the sister caught this and quickly shot him a look that said that he was to stop. This caused Azure Square to change his reply to a solid no by shaking his head furiously.

Rory then went on to say, “your claims would have some leeway if we were to also be receiving some funding in the same way as yourself. We also know about your attempts to push the Princess into somehow granting you access. And as stated on all of the returned letters. Since we are a privately funded and own company. That just so happens to also be located on a land that we ourselves purchased. Then you really don't have a shot in the dark from talking to the Princess, because not even she has been allowed to come onto the premises.”

Azure Pie was about to say something, but Rory quickly cut her off again, while also bringing up her right hand and extending her index finger upwards and slightly shaking it from left to right. “We follow all of the procedures to have our products tested and that is all that is required to have them distributed.”

“Under no part of the contract and rules is there anything that states that you are required to know exactly how we produce our products or how they function as a whole. As long as they operate as specified and use no harmful components, then we are free to do pretty much whatever we want.”

By then, the two groups were now starting to gain even more attention from the crowd nearby that was listening in on the whole discussion. Azure Pie then pull back with an indignant face before brightening up and turning her attention over to Gambit who is on Rory's left-hand side and only a few inches back. She then straightened out her dress and tried to put on a pathetic attempt at looking sultry over at him as she spoke.

“Could you please try to talk some sense into your President? She is obviously gotten drunk on Power and has no idea on how the real-world works.” Brex could obviously tell how Rin and Lin were beginning to tense up a little bit as the mare tried to put the moves on him, but continue to remain silent as his mask was facing her. As the seconds slowly went by, the mare’s composure was now crumbling, as she realized that her attempt failed. With that out of the way. The discussion was reheated between Rory and Azure Pie.

However, as it was starting to get so tedious, Brex really had to try hard not to raise a hand to his mask in order to yawn. He got to get a glimpse of something in the corner of his vision which was in the direction of the exits leading to the garden. So, after sending a little message over to Rory that he'll be going off and doing his own thing for a little bit. Gambit slowly made his way out. Once outside, he took a good look and found that there were only a few of the guests outside right now.

But he did happen to spot Applejacks food stall and even further away, was Fluttershy having a bit of trouble with interacting with the animals that would scurry away from her whenever she tried to approach. Already, he could tell that everything was going according to the show's design and was now putting it together in his head as to how long he possibly had before the entire Gala was to turn into a war zone.

It was during this mental calculation that Brex noticed a figure he saw from before at one of the corners of the garden and decided to head on over. But along the way, Applejack caught sight of him and quickly called out in an excited tone, as the first few words she said would get a little awkward as she would lightly chuckle to herself. “Over here partner! Hehe-hehe... I mean… That is... I uh, it didn't even cross my mind that you would be here of all places when you get back from your little romping.”

“Say! Are you hankering for some Apple products? I don't know what it is about the stuck-up folks here, but they just don't know what they're missing. I really thought that they'd be selling faster than grandma's Apple cakes. But I ain't getting a lick of luck.”

Instead of saying anything to Applejack. Brex brought up his right hand. With one of the uses of his prestidigitation spell, he quickly started to write something in the air with his finger as the tip produced a white light that remained in place. Once finished, he waved his hand across the floating writing so that it would spin around and allow apple Jack to get a clear view to read the texts.

“I would love to try them right now, but I am pressed for time. How about you give me two of those candy apples and whatever you don't sell at the end of the night, then I'll buy what’s still in stock?”

He then produced a couple of bits from his item box and pulled them from his pocket and placed them onto the flat surface of the stall. Applejack was so happy that she finally made her first sell at the party, that by the time he was already walking away. She had only just realized that he wasn't talking and tilted her head in clear confusion.

Knowing how things are going to go over with Fluttershy. Brex went ahead and completely avoided that section of the garden until he arrived at his destination, while still carrying the apples in each hand by their stick. By the time he stopped and was now at the edge of a small pond being surrounded by a stone wall that was barely a foot high. He was with none other than Princess Luna herself, who was intently staring at the water and a few of the fishes swimming through it, as the moonlight reflected from the surface.

*Point of view: Third Person*

After checking his mini map quickly for anyone nearby and finding that it was just the two of them alone. Brex spoke up in a way that would minimize the chance of spooking Luna. “I'm sure that your garden would have looked very nice with one of these at your old castle.” Luna whirled on the spot and nearly fell into the water after taking half a step back. But thankfully, she caught herself in time on wobbly legs and straightened herself up before giving him an unamused look, before she responded.

“Do you take joy in frightening us!” But Luna stopped herself before giving Gambit a puzzled look that quickly morphed to that of understanding, as her eyes went wide. But before she could say anything else, the candy apple in his left hand was handed over and she ended up taking it as the two started to go back and forth. While at the same time, taking in the site of the pond in the Moonlight.

“I wondered if I would be able to see you if I were to come to the Gala. Was getting a little worried with you not dropping by to say hello.”

“I-I... Have had great many of other matters on my mind that required unwavering attention. I do hope that it went well with your travels.”

“Not much to write home about. Talk to a few here and there and did the odd job. Also, cleared up a little misunderstanding, but that's pretty much it.”

“Oh, we see. Hast thou enjoyed in partaking in the merriment?”

“Luna, you're beginning to relapse back into your old speech. I've talked with you enough times to know that you only get like that when you're worked up. Maybe you should take a bite out of that apple to try and relax a little and we can talk about it if you want.”

Luna took a look at the candy apple gripped in both of her hands and glanced up to him a few times before she eventually brought it to her mouth and took a small bite. It wasn't exactly subtle, but Luna was definitely loving it as her eyes lit up and she hurriedly took another bite and started to savor it more.

After she was nearly halfway done. Luna clearly realized how long she was eating and developed a slight blush before turning her attention to the pond as she spoke. “Can't say that we-. That I have had an apple served in such a way. I happened to look in on the chefs and I was certain that these were not anywhere to be found.”

“You can thank the one that you know as the Element of Honesty for those. You know what's funny? All this talk about food and seeing you enjoy that apple, as I also look at this reflection, has got me to think about Mooncakes. Ha-Ha… I suppose that's a little random.”

“What is this, Mooncake? Is that a new pastry?”

“Oh, I would not say that it's new, that's for sure. Why? Are you interested?”

“Very... It's not often that there are mentions of the Moon. If you wouldn't mind, please.”

“Hmm... First off. It would be better if I explained the reason behind it. A very long time ago, even before I was even born. There was a story widely known in a certain culture. Bear in mind that this is just a story and I don’t remember all the details.”

“I understand. Please, do go on.”

“To summarize. The story goes with there once being ten suns in the sky, that were burning the land. A legendary archer could not stand the plight of his own people, so he used his bow and arrow and shot nine of the ten suns out of the sky so that only one remained. It was said that he was given a gift from those up high. Which turned out to be the elixir of immortality for his deed in saving the lives of many. He gave the potion to his wife for safekeeping, but while he was out hunting. One that he thought to be his apprentice and best friend, tried to steal it from his wife.”

“So underhanded. How could one that is called the best friend do such an act of betrayal?”

“You, as well as your sister knows what the talk of immortality can do to a mortal. But as the story goes On. His wife drank the potion to keep it from being stolen. But as a result, she herself gained immortality and was forced to become the spirit of the moon and was sent there. In the end, she ended up leaving him alone. But he was not sad, because she was not killed in the robbery.”

“Ever since then, on the anniversary. The husband would set out an altar and pray to her in hopes that she was having a good life up on the moon. And all the while, he would set out these small cakes, which turned out to be something she really liked to have on occasion. Eventually, the story became widely known and during the Autumn Festival, it would become a tradition to make these confections. During this time, the moon would have those prey to it and offer thanks for the good harvest.”

“Even after three-thousand years, it was as popular as ever, if not even more with all the Innovations they put towards making different types of Mooncakes. One could put in red bean paste as one. Another can be filled with a type of tart. One would even be made filled with the assortment of nuts, seeds and held together with honey or syrup. For those that are of the meat-eating variety. They have variations of those as well. Oh, and let's not forget the jelly and ice cream.”

“I do recall that there was one called the, Thousand Rainbow Mooncake. Which lived up to its name, especially with the way the colors would swirl almost endlessly on the outside. Some mooncakes would even be made in a way that a good luck charm would be imprinted onto the outside and given to students to wish them good luck on their tests.”

As Brex was absent-mindedly going on with his explanation. Luna was continuing to eat the rest of the Apple off of the stick, as she had this wonderous expression on her face over the way her moon was being coveted in the past and had no idea that such an event had even occurred.

She was also in awe over the simple fact that such a tradition was going on for well over three-thousand years. But that was when a question suddenly popped into her head and she couldn't contain it and slightly averted her eyes in the opposite direction of him. “Do you follow that tradition?”

Brex hummed to himself for a moment as he brought up the candy apple to his mask and somehow was able to take a bite out of it simply by pressing it to where the curved line for the smile was. He then kept his mask facing towards the water as he replied to her question. “Unfortunately, I do not belong to that country and have no relations to any from there as far as I know. As for following that tradition, I would have to say that I don't. At least, as far as I remember.”

This got Luna to lower her head, along with her eyes for but a brief moment before he continued. “The Autumn Festival for which this is done on, does not exist anymore. But who's to say one has to give thanks to the Moon only one time of the year?” That was when he started to eat the rest of the Apple at a rapid pace as Luna turned her attention towards him and gave a small smile. But what he said next, made that small smile grow even further.

“But now that I've talked about it. I can't help but to want to make some soon. How about we make a deal?” Luna slightly tilted her head, while raising one of her eyebrows as a result before he went on. “I'll make some when Autumn rolls around. In return, I'd like you to judge their taste. Do we have a deal?”

Luna was now blinking rapidly, as her mouth was slightly open. She attempted to put some words together but fumbled with them before they managed to exit her lips after a long, several seconds. That was until she managed to stutter out the next string of sentences, although she was quite flustered while doing so.

“Wah-What!? Why would you want me to taste them? I wouldn't have any idea how they're meant to be.” Brex turned on the spot and started to walk away from Luna and back to the party, as he waved the now empty stick in his left hand in a goodbye gesture as he spoke.

“They were originally an offering for the wife who turned into a Moon Goddess. Seeing as your Princess Luna and you control the Moon. That makes you pretty much the same. For one to make Mooncakes, and get the approval of the current Moon Goddess. Now that is one great motivation to do my best. Oh, and by the way. I suggest getting a high vantage point in the party. I get the sneaking suspicion that it's going to be pretty entertaining.”

And with that, he left a now stunned Luna as she was now sporting a heavy blush that easily stood out on her dark figure. Eventually, she was able to regain her cognitive functions as she looked down to the Apple stick in her hand before mumbling the following to herself. “What just happened to us? We are so confused.” She then scrunched up her muzzle for a second after picking up a very weak aroma that only lasted for but a split second, as she quickly labeled it as blueberries.

*Point of view: Brex Mith*

Soon after leaving Luna when their chat was finished. Brex used a fire spell and quickly vaporized the tiny piece of wood in his hand until there were not even the smallest traces of ashes left as it blew into the wind. Keeping in mind of Fluttershy's location. He went ahead and took another route that was different than the one he used beforehand.

Once he was sure that he was coming up on one of the entrances leading back into the party. He ended up stopping in his tracks just before going around the bend that would lead him straight into a small clearing that he remembered through his doppelganger always hanging around the castle, to contain the number of benches.

The reason he ended up doing this, was because the icon meant for Celestia was coming up on his mini map, along with three green dots close by. While being very careful and slipping into the shadows of a nearby bush. Brex creeped along until he was able to stick his head around the corner and see the sight of Celestia, who was talking to Rory, as both Rin and Lin were standing behind her and off to the sides.

Upon witnessing the situation, Brex had to really hold himself back from immediately jumping in so that he could hear what was going on. Of course, he did see the subtle eye movements of Rory that was keeping her gaze solely on Celestia, which gave him the indication that she was aware of his presence. Luckily for him, they weren't too far and the music from the party was just faint enough that he didn't need to rely on looking over to his chat window to know what they were saying, as Celestia started talking aloud and the two of them began to exchange words with one another.

“Please, I do apologize for this unusual request for a private conversation. And if I’m to be quite honest, I could tell that my ministers of science and technology were taking up quite a bit of your time.”

“Not at all. It is true that I am somewhat grateful for being able to put a stop to that repetitive discussion. I too have been meaning to have a small chat with you as well. I can only surmise that would be the very reason for you to specifically have a ticket delivered to me.”

“Forgive me, as I don’t mean to sound pretentious. But I can’t help but notice that out of all the ponies here, I have yet to hear you refer to me as Princess. From that alone I could only come to conclusion that you are not from my country.”

“I can safely say that if I were, then odds are I would have been completely brainwashed and my Master and I would never have gotten together.”

“I am so sorry… But I don't quite understand by what you mean when you say brainwash. Have I done something to offend you?”

“Oh, you certainly have. Now I don't want to keep my master waiting too long, so I won't go into the details. However, I feel that I must tell you this at the very least. Princess Celestia, ruler of these lands. I, Rory Mercury, do not like you at all. If it were not for my Master, then we would not be having a civil conversation and your head would already be gone from the rest of your body.”

“I-I see... I suppose this has to do with back then... I don’t normally get these types of declarations all that often. Just how much do you know about…. The incident?”

“I know more than enough... He may have excused you to an extent, but I assure you that I am far less forgiving when it comes to the one that tried to kill-. No... Not try… The one who was the cause of his death. You could scarcely imagine all the things I want to do to you right now, but I won't due to his wishes.”

From where Brex was standing. He could easily see Celestia's wings giving the slightest of twitches as her left hand was now balling into a shaking fist. This was followed by a few seconds of silence before the talks continued. Although, the first couple of words that came out of Celestia’s mouth were so low in volume, that they were nothing but mumblings.

“What? You're going to need to speak up there.”

“I said, how’s Gambit been doing?”

“Huh?”

“I said, that I wanted to know how Gambit is doing. Is-Is he having any difficulties?”

“Under what obligation would I have to tell you anything of the sort?”

There was another one of those long stretches of silence as Rory was now looking visibly annoyed with Celestia. When it came to the pair of maids. Their eyes were locked onto the princess and already had themselves in a stance, where they could easily react without giving it away too much. But, Brex did see as Celestia scrunched up her face to indicate she was in some manner of pain, while a single teardrop managed to escape the edge of her left eye, as she responded to Rory.

“I've communicated with him in the Dream Realm on numerous occasions and conveyed that I am sorry for what transpired... I... I only wish to show him that I am truly sorry. Is there any course that could be taken that will gain his forgiveness? To my surprise, he shows up here of all nights and I felt that I finally had an opportunity to talk to him face to face. But instead, he completely ignores me.”

That was when Rory opened up the mental communication to Brex for the both of them to have an accelerated chat in his mind. “It would appear that your psychological attack from earlier was quite effective. I’m quite impressed Master. You really thought this through, didn't you? It's one thing to be sorry to an individual when you know their face and have spoken with them.”

“But it's on a whole other level with one's guilt and anxiety over the matter when their victim is one that they have no idea of their face or even their voice, so their imagination ends up running wild. What she did to you, must be pretty close to the emotion she fell towards her sister. Especially with this much time passing to allow the seeds of guilt to grow and sink their roots quite deep.”

Brex remains silent at that, but was clearly confused by Rory's words. He then raised an eyebrow questionably as he internally thought to himself, so that Rory was unable to hear his ramblings. “Hey! I have no idea what she's going on about! What's all this about psychological warfare? I just don't trust her or want to talk. Does she really think I planned this out to be some kind of long-term mental torture?”

Rex then gave it a split second to consider it, before he continued with his thoughts. “Hmm... Now that I think about it. It really isn’t all that bad of an idea. I'm probably better off with letting her believe that. She's the only one that knows how I really am and I want to keep some brownie points.”

Even with him going through this mental debate at lightning speed. His legs were still slightly shivering as the muscles were constantly tense, so that they were more than ready to act at a moment's notice. Of course, this was not out of a flight or fight response for a fear of the Princess. But more of an instinctual response. Especially with the close proximity of Rory and the other two when it came to Celestia.

Sure, Rory could hold her own, he knew that very well. At least long enough to possibly get away if the situation should turn into the princess’s favor. But when it came to Rin and Lin. He knew that they were not strong enough to take Celestia in a head-on fight, at least not yet. Even now, he could faintly feel the tug of one of his tank class Soul Stones that were pretty much begging to be equipped in response to his protective nature. Of course, he knew this was most likely his imagination playing the part, but he brushed It so that he could keep focused on the current situation.

Now, with going back over to Rory. The girl gave a slight huff of annoyance before turning away from Celestia. But she did say the following with a devilish grin on her face, just before she started to make her way back towards the castle with the two maids and tow. “I'm not doing anything for you. Much less when it comes to trying to improve your relationship with my one and only Master. Talk to me again after, and only after he allows you to suck off his dick!”

She then paused for a moment before speaking again, but this time she was looking right at Celestia in the same way that one of those upperclassmen would in some anime that had the upper hand and wanted to rub it in and was clearly loving it to no end.

“On second thought... Hmm. Why not come to our place after a week’s time. I would just love to see you try and get his permission. As long as you don’t step over the line, then I won’t interfere. Hehe~. Who knows. I may even decide to lend my assistance if you were to beg like the horny whore you are and promise to do anything I say. I can smell the desperation from before I even crossed the threshold of those front doors.” And with that, she turned again and left for the building.

A few things happen as soon as those words left Rory's lips when it came to both Celestia and Brex. The princess's mouth was hanging so wide that a bird could literally have flown straight in as her eyes were bugging out from pure shock. She also nearly stumbled back due to the unexpected words as her hoof unintentionally stepped on the hem of her dress.

But she caught on quickly enough and stopped herself from falling to the ground. She even had this deepening blush that pretty much spread across her entire face. In fact, the blush was so intense that it was even running along her ears and neck before she ended up slapping her hands over her face in letting out strange little whimper that was mixed with a tiny squeal. At the same time, her mouth was slowly beginning to move but was unable to let out any real words.

Over with Brex. Who is still hiding just around the corner. His mask nearly fell off with the way he was bugging out and he had to quickly grab on to it with his right hand to keep it from coming loose. His mind also came to a screeching halt as he tried to compute the implications what such a phrase would create in the future. By the time he was able to think properly again, Brex quickly found out that thanks to him being so distracted, the Princess was already long gone.

He then thought the following to himself, but made sure that Rory wasn't able to hear it. RORY! WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU THINKING IN THAT HEAD OF YOURS?! You literally told the princess to suck my dick! I don't know if I should be incredibly turned on that you're being that forceful with her, or to be angry that you're causing so much friction.”

“Errr... Hmm, okay. If I'm being honest. Then I'm sort of… Seventy percent turned on in thirty percent angry. Also, why would she even want Celestia near my dick in the first place?! You even invited the her to our room?! So what? Am I meant to serve her some tea? Great, just great. Perfect even! Just was I needed to look forward too. I wonder if this is a good enough reason to start drinking? Maybe it'll help me forget about all of this happening.” And with that Brex stepped out of the shadows and went back inside.

From there, the rest of the party went as expected with all the girls playing their expected roles. Celestia was pretty much glued to the top of the steps along with Twilight. Although, Brex was pretty sure that she was somewhat distracted. Applejack just couldn't sell any of her goods, so he instructed Rin to be ready in the event that the stall should happen to be left behind.

Pinkie was pretty much making a spectacle of herself while attempting to get the band to play some more upbeat music. Not to mention the way she pretty much hoovered down most of the food. Brex was almost positive that she even gobbled up a couple of the silverware and began to chew her overly stuffed cheeks and swallow before spitting out the utensils as though they were watermelon seeds. From this he got to see another aspect of the cartoon rules, as the silverware landed perfectly arranged onto the table.

When it came to Rarity, she did try to swoon Prince Blue Blood, but he was having none of that. Unlike in the story, the prince wasn't acting all snooty and uptight. However, he did try to get away from the fashionista as much as possible with one convenient excuse after another. But no matter the excuse, Prince Blue Blood was always found by her soon after as she was popping out of the most unexpected places in a familiar fashion to Pinkie.

What was once a cordial chat between the two of them, would soon turn to him pretty much only replying with the least amount of words. Overtime it, would end up progressing to the point that Blue Blood was now actively ignoring Rarity in order to greet the other guests and check up on the guards for any up-to-date status report. Of course, Brex was keeping an eye on this from his tall vantage point and was trying to hold back a giggle whenever Rarity's attempts to swoon him would fail and the mare was clearly becoming more desperate by the moment.

The supposed scene where the two of them would go outside to sit on pillows just like so many others, would not come to pass. The opening doors or the spilled drink on the floor didn't happen either. Although, Rarity's expression was turning more manic, along with her having a very creepy smile and a not-so-subtle twitch of the eye by the end.

When it came to Rainbow, she was trying her hardest in order to get the Wonderbolts to pay her any mind at all. Which was quite surprising to Brex with the multitude of failed attempts he got to see after coming back inside. Although, it became quite apparent that she was indeed gaining some attention. But it was from the guards, as she was now performing more and more dangerous aerial acrobatics from within the hall

While staying inside. Rex ordered his doppelganger from within the castle to go over and keep an eye on Fluttershy. Soon after he did this, he got the mental images of Fluttershy to be wearing some streaks of mud on her face as a form of camouflage and hiding in the bushes. While at the same time, she had a long piece of string that would be leading up to a trap. Said trap, was the comically overused box being held up by a single stick. It was because of this, that the Roegadyn was pretty sure of the rapidly approaching climax for the gala and was already in a spot to have a good view, while also staying out of the way.

But luckily enough, he just happened to catch the site of Fancy Pants and Fleur. The two lovebirds, along with his group of four all went to one of the corners for some privacy and started to chat. Although, Brex quickly got to work with writing in the air and explaining that he was not going to be talking out loud while in the castle. Thankfully, the two were understanding and didn't press him for the reason.

From there, they discussed a few minor things which also included how fancy pants came about to purchasing a very unusual item. Apparently, one of his subordinates came across it during their travels and shipped it to Canterlot and was scheduled to arrive sometime tonight. He then went on to some vague details. Which consisted of the item being a kind of metallic wrist bound item. There was a screen and multiple dials attached in various locations.

But due to poor handling with the mail system. The letter that came ahead of time had a good portion of the description damaged thanks to bad weather when it came across the sea to the east. So, it was nearly impossible for fancy pants to elaborate on anymore of the details.

Of course, Brex was quite interested in knowing that there was a type of Technology out there that was clearly more advanced than what normal Pony Society possessed. To say that he was excited, was an understatement as he eagerly waited for when sir Fancy Pants was done examining it himself. But somewhere in the back of his mind, there was this small itch that made him wonder if he was forgetting something and simply played it off as his curiosity and moved on.

It was then, that the domino effect of multiple outgoing mare’s came to start, as Applejack came first through the lower doors that led to the kitchen and came in with a very large multi-layer cake on a cart. That was when he glanced up to the upper floors and quickly surveyed for any sign of Luna. He had almost given up hope until he came across the last set of curtains and spotted the Princess of the night using the shadows provided to stay out of the way.

He ended up letting out a small laugh as he saw her face contort to both amusement and shock at what was to happening. The cake got destroyed by Pinkie doing a stage dive and getting multiple of the guests covered in cake. Instead of Blue Blood using Rarity as a shield, he was just about to deflect it with a magic spell, when Rarity popped up right in front of him with having no idea what was happening around herself and getting hit with an abnormally large glob of the cake and frosting.

Of course, Blue Blood was surprised by the events. Whereas Rarity went off on a tangent and accused him of using her to protect himself when he obviously had nothing to do with it and quickly stormed off in a huff. This only left Blue Blood standing there with a very confused expression. He even turned towards one of the guards and gave the motion as to wanting some answers. But the guard mare gave a shrug of her shoulders before lifting her hand and extending her finger to do a swirling motion to indicate that she thought the mare that ran off was a bit screwy.

The next thing that happened, was Fluttershy causing a stampede and making the entire Ballroom Shake as well as a few of the glasses on the tables to fall over from the vibration when an army of animals trampled their way inside. But with the sight of Fluttershy coming in all crazed and screaming “LOVE ME!!” With a volume that was just way too loud for the shy Pegasus. Brex had this fluctuating mixture of emotions crossing his face that depicted both unbridled fear and laughter.

Of course, with all the animals running amok. Rainbow was distracted by one of the flying creatures and ended up slamming straight into one of the support columns. And with that, it began to fall and strike the next column, which then repeated the effect until it went all the way down to the end of the room and miraculously causing that pillar to fall sideways. From there, it caused the next row to come right back.

By the end of all the carnage. Brex could clearly see Twilight calling out to all the girls and motioning towards the front doors and running out of the castle before they could be blamed for anything. As for the rest of the guests. They immediately started to file outside when Prince Blue Blood took command and issued loudly over the screaming for everyone to evacuate. Of course, Brex and the rest of his party weren't really all that phase and quietly exited along with the panicked guests.

*Point of view: Princess Celestia*

The princess of the sun could do nothing but to stand there with object horror plastered onto her face once the festivities were broken apart by the strange string of chaos that was caused by the friends of her most trusted student Twilight. Even with it being a few moments after they all ran out through the front door. Celestia was still there observing as the animals continue to loiter around and eat up all the food that was eventually knocked over once one of the dears bumped into the table that it was all placed upon.

However, it was a whole other story on the inside of Celestia's mind. She was quite literally jumping around in her imagination with pure glee and excitement at how Lively the so-called best party in the world, which was in reality, the most boring one to turn out so great. Obviously, she couldn't exactly show this part of herself as it would completely ruin her image. But it was Luna's voice that came out of nowhere that shocked her out of the state and caused the mare to turn around in order to hear just what was being said to her.

“These parties sure have changed from what I was originally told only a few weeks ago. Dear sister, would it not have been prudent to at least inform me as to the change in the required etiquette? It would have been foles play to locate a bear in the woods for my part.” Luna's voice was obviously meant to throw off any who would be listening as it was meant to be condescending. But Celestia knew from the glint behind Luna's eyes that she was only making fun of the situation and clearly loving every bit of it as much as herself.

Luna then continued, but not before casting a spell in order to allow herself to mentally communicate with her older sister for some privacy. “This will do quite nicely. Dear sister, I just so happen to have an interesting encounter with sir Gambit. Why were we not let in on his attendance?” Celestia visibly flinched on the outside before she replied to that. “It was a complete surprise for me as well.”

That was when Celestia went right ahead and told Luna about the whole encounter after the announcement from when he arrived. Of course, the tail also included the small discussion between herself and Rory Mercury from back in the garden.

This whole task took only a few minutes to complete as they kept a good watch on the ballroom from the top of the stares. Eventually, Luna let out an audible hum as she thought it over and considered the next response in her head. “I dare say that he is beginning to warm up to you.” This obviously got a confused look from Celestia before the two of them started to go back and forth.

“Just consider this if you will. You were forbidden from entering his dreams and all of a sudden, he meets you face to face. If I can gain anything from that decision, then he might be open to the idea of mending that forementioned bridge that we all believe to have burned down long ago. Well, I suppose if we are being truthful, then it would be the bridge that you believed to be burned down. I for one see it was perfectly usable if some work was to be put into it.”

“But Lulu! He didn’t even acknowledge me! I was ignored! That feeling... it's... it’s so strange. Instead of a princess, I felt no different than a simple vase that was placed on top of a small table in the corner of the room. I don't understand! Should I not be hurt? Should I not be upset over this? I am so very much confused.”

Luna gave a disgruntled huff, before she replied. “Dear sister… I feel as though this is another time that requires that I take the path of bluntness. Now, before you say anything, just hear me out. Tia... you have particular needs. Needs that have obviously been slowly maturing over a thousand years of ruling alone and stuck in the same rut as they say.”

“If you're going to say that I need to get a partner-.”

Luna's inner voice was now getting really annoyed at this point as she interrupted Celestia. “Sister! It is clearly not that simple! Not in the least. Very well, let us try another approach on this topic. Oh mother, please give me strength… After an extended rule. You have experienced the life of being in utter control over every aspect of not only your life, but the ponies around and being waited on hand and foot.”

“But I-.”

“Tia! Please! What I am trying to say, is that you are completely bored with being in charge! You're bored of being the center of attention for once! You wish to have another that does not look up, but looks down upon you. The very fact that you smell of cake right now as I am saying these words is proof enough!”

“I-I… That is! Umm.”

“No if, ands or buts. Tia, you are getting off on being treated in the complete opposite of what a princess normally is. You've been like this ever since that argument in his dream! For the Love of our mother's name! Whenever Gambit’s name is even brought up you-.”

“Lulu! Please just stop already!”

“I am not going to cease in my attempts to make you learn. Through my recent research into these modern times. I can easily classify you as a closet masochist. Don't think I haven't noticed the traces of magic that you use to heal your neck every now and then when I see you in the morning for our meals. Not to mention, there’s how the outside of your dream bubble appears when I go on my nightly patrols”

“Huh?! L-Lulu! You promised you wouldn't peek into my dreams without my permission!”

“Oh, come now Tia. I didn't do such a thing. All I had to do is glance over as I was passing and it was painfully obvious you were having a highly erotic dream! Sure, you would get one every now and then, but they happen to be a constant occurrence when it happens to coincide with a night that you are brought to see him or we have a discussion with Gambit as the subject.”

In the outside world, the two princesses were simply standing there without saying a word. But Celestia's cheeks quickly became flushed as sweat was now quickly forming on her brow. Her eyes even shrunk the show that she was in some manner of distress as she replied. “You, uh. Wouldn't happen to recall what our mother warned us on, would you?”

“Was I not the one to bring it up when we last had our little discussion on this topic? Of course, I remember her words clearly. When an Alicorn develops strong feelings and physical attraction to a possible mate, they end up going into a state of perpetual heat that only gets stronger over time. This is something that doesn't happen that often, so we can pretty much go our entire lives without having such a problem. Yes, we do have our normal heat cycles. But this is a part of something else. If found out early, then precautions could be enacted to halt it in place.”

“I-I think… I'm well past that point! I keep thinking of Gambit more frequently! First it began with just the visits, then it was his name being spoken. This went on until anything that reminded me of him, would trigger these feelings. But now, it's almost constant and it takes a lot for me to concentrate enough on other matters. It was only due to the importance of the gala that I was able to hold on for so long this day.”

“Tia, I already know of the multiple teleportation spells you've been conducting in secret.”

This caused Celestia to let out a loud gulp in the outer world. She then replied to Luna with an obvious hitch in her inner voice. “For j-just how long have you known?”

“For over a month now. As for tonight alone. I could faintly feel the pulse of such an advance spell from a certain distance. I believe the count is up to seven.”

“Um... make that eleven... Oh, hold on! Okay… Now it makes twelve. Lulu I'm in really, really big trouble! What am I supposed to do?! This is not going to go away on its own.”

“That is very much true Dear sister. Mother herself did attempt to stave off the effects for herself. But in the end, it bore no fruit and she lost control. It only got worse... I do recall her saying that she ended up flying straight through the castle walls once her willpower was broken. This was all in order to find the target of her affection. She even made the joke on the matter of not realizing how injured her body was until after she found him.”

That was when the both of them visibly flinched as Celestia replied and a somewhat worried tone. “Y-Yeah.... I kind of feel sorry for Dad. The poor stallion was a member of the royal guard and she crashed into him in the middle of their usual guard training exercises in the yard. In my case, it only got really bad after I had a talk with Rory.”

“Ah! You are referring to the act of sexual gratification towards sir Gambit.” This was followed by a short pause of dead silence, before Luna reacted in a shocked and disapproving voice that echoed loudly in their minds. “Tia! Are you not ashamed! I am literally standing right next to you and you had to go and-.”

“I can't help myself Lulu! Here comes number thirteen, and I'm sure these are probably the last pair I have that I can teleport. This is becoming a big problem.”

“Fine! Seeing as you are not in the current state of mind to be able to cast a constant spell to hold these urges back. Then I have no other course of action but to lend you my assistance for the time being.” And with that, Luna flashed her horn once and Celestia had this look of relief crossing her face.

Celestia then said, “I told Twilight that we would meet up tonight or possibly in the morning.”

“I see, I see. It would be best to take care of that little task now, rather than in the morning, when your condition might turn for the worst. I'll do my utmost to be able to keep your condition under control while we go and find your protégé and the rest of the elements of harmony. Perhaps afterwards, we can have our own private discussion on what needs to be done about your little situation.”

The next part was whispered on Luna's part. But Celestia was just barely able to pick out a few words. Which turned out to be about Luna wanting to talk to someone at the party, but was unlucky and missed the opportunity when the animals came into the mix.

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: Donut Joe's*

After a little bit of time passed since they're quick exit. All of the girls found themselves at Donut Joe's, along with Spike, who was already there before they even arrived. Each one was going over their horrible experiences and easily seeing what kind of mistakes they were making. More so when they came up with what the gala was going to be like. That was until Celestia eventually came in along with Luna at her side, who were looking pretty good when compared to the rest of the girls who were in the varying states of disarray.

Once all was said and done. Twilight ended up giving an oral report to Celestia about what she and her friends learned that evening. Then, they started to munch away at a few of the donuts that a startled Donut Joe just put down after witnessing the two rulers in his shop. But after giving everyone several minutes to enjoy their meal and talk amongst themselves. Celestia called for Donut Joe, who had just come into the room and requested for them to have some privacy and that she would be putting up a soundproof magical barrier.

Of course, she did say that she would compensate him for the time and asked him to consider it as renting out his whole shop for the next hour. Donut Joe just gave a light shrug and agreed to it and told them that he would be in the back and all they had to do was to call out for him if they should be needing any more of his services.

Now showing that they were visibly confused on all of their faces. Celestia produce the sound blocking barrier and took in a deep breath before steadying herself as she began to say the following. “Twilight… What I wish to impart on not only upon you. But Spike and all of your friends. Is a tale that I have not spoken to another, aside from my own sister. Please, keep in mind that it is all true and to wait on any questions until the very end. But before I start, I would like to know your opinions on the one that you all know fairly well as Gambit.”

Twilight had a thoughtful expression as she replied to her mentor. “Well, I guess there's not all that much, aside from what I've told you in my reports. I do know that he likes books, that's pretty much it. Oh, he also spends time with Spike on occasion. We both don't really talk all that much. But when we do, he can be a little... um... blunt, to say the least.”

Spike was the next to speak up after swallowing a mouthful of donuts that was pulled in only a minute earlier with his arms reaching around a tray full of them. “I think Gambits a cool guy. He would tell me of some of the places he's been and would even play a card game with me on the weekends. Although, he doesn't really like to talk about himself too much and can be a little flaky on the details. Hmm… Oh! Oh! He also gave me an autographed picture of the Diamond Dog adventurer called Einstein!”

Rarity was the next one to speak, as she was in the middle of pulling out some bits of cake that was still stuck in her mane. “I'm truly sorry to say, but I have not even spoken two words to Gambit. But from the conversations I would have with Rory, then he is a very honorable stallion. Although, I do get the odd feeling that he's actively avoiding me. Just listen to me, I just know that cannot be the case. Perhaps he's just shy is all.”

Half of the girls within the shop ended up in rolling their eyes, while Applejack was the next one to throw her two bits into the conversation. “I can tell y'all that he's honest and doesn't beat around the bush. It also takes a lot to get under his skin if he's willing to let things slide and forgive those that he believes are worthy of it. If I didn't know any better, I'd say he has a pretty good idea about all of us here. Not to mention, he's probably the hardest working stallion I've ever seen. That is aside from Big Mac in my father.”

Pinkie started to bounce in place, while also waving her hand as one would when trying to get the teacher's attention. “Oh-Oh-Oh! Me-Me! Over here! He and Rory really like the stuff we make at Sugar Cube Corner! He's always here and there in Ponyville to fix up every little doodad and what's it that's broken! I hear from the little ones that they love the playground he fixed up over at the towns school. He even got rid of the annoying squeaking that the swings make and that spinning wheel that they like to ride on doesn’t get stuck anymore.”

She then started to speed up the way she talked, until it was pretty much all stringed out as one word. “He didn't really like mare’s all that much, but he's starting to open up! I also know that he doesn't really like big parties and I've been trying to keep my distance so I don't freak him out! But I just know that when he finally opens up then he and I could be super-duper besties! Oh! I know! Maybe he'll even teach me how to use that sticky tongue spell so I can grab cupcakes from across the room?! That would be so much fun! I could just stand right here and I could eat every single donut-.”

Pinky went silent when Rainbow covered her mouth, while keeping the pink pony and a kind of headlock position as she herself began to talk. “Okay, okay. I'm sure we all got the part about the parties. But I got no idea what you said after!” As soon as Rainbow finished with that and released her grip. Everyone there found that Pinkie was still talking up a storm and acted as though she never stopped before Rainbow quickly snatched up a nearby plate of donuts and put it in front of her in order to get the pink mare to stop.

After, Pinkie gave a broad smile and started to stuff her face again. Once that was done, Rainbow continued after first letting out a relieved sigh. “As for me... I… That is, I and him... I-I think he's a cool guy... Huh, not as cool as me of course, but we all can't be perfect. I may have done and said a few things to him and he was pretty quick to forgive me...”

“And from what I've heard from a friend. Uh... I really had him pegged wrong. I guess what I mean to say is. Umm. He's pretty patient and can give some good advice.” By the end. Rainbow's voice was getting a little timid as she was sitting in her chair and leaning over the counter with her hands over one another.

As everyone went silent. Well, everybody aside from Pinkie, who was happily munching away. Fluttershy was hiding behind her hair with one of her eyes poking out, as she started to talk in a whisper that was just barely loud enough for the princesses on the end of the seats to pick up. “He can be really scary... But I’m beginning to think that he’s a lot nicer than I gave him credit for. We don't get to talk much, if any. But it's not his fault. I'm sorry to say that I have been actively avoiding Gambit. But after hearing what you all have to say... I wonder if that makes me a bad Pony.”

Celestia lightly shook her head before gently speaking to Fluttershy from the end of the counter. “I do not believe that makes you a bad Pony. As for my sister and myself. We could say the same of Gambit.” This was when both of the rulers began to slightly tilt their heads down as they were pondering a bit more on how to continue. But it was Twilight who spoke up first as she tilted her head to the side while making a scrunched-up expression.

“Wait... Are you saying that the both of you have some experience with Gambit? But Princess, you are the one that wanted me to tell you what I knew. He's been in Ponyville for nearly two months and gone for the last month and a half. So that must mean this happened before he moved to Ponyville.”

Twilight's face slowly came to a realization, as she thought back to how they came into the Gala. She then added in a confused tone that had a hint of worry behind it. “The way he reacted when you greeted him... How he also talks about you whenever you're involved in a conversation... did... something happen between you three?”

Celestia gave her younger sister a quick glance from the edge of her vision before taking a nervous gulp. This was soon accompanied by a hurt expression crossing her face, as her wings began to droop a little, along with her ears flattening on the sides of her head. The moments went by at an agonizingly slow pace as Celestia tried to steady herself and take in a few calming breaths before she spoke up again.

“Originally, I was going to tell you all this tale when you were brought to my study later tonight, but I suppose now is as good a time as any. First, would any of you like to tell the story of how Ghastly Gorge came to be?” Applejack started to scratch the back of her left ear as she reluctantly answered that question. “That big hole in the ground that stretches on for miles? I reckon it was made by some falling meteor if I recall my school days.”

Luna placed a hand onto her older sister's right shoulder in order to give some moral support as Celestia continued. “The story starts close to eight hundred years ago. Nearly two centuries after I banished Nightmare Moon and subsequently my younger sister. It was within my throne room, right as I began my duties that-.”

*Point of view: Brex Mith*
*Location: Canterlot train station*
*Time: Seven in the morning*

Gambit was at this moment taking the train back to ponyville while riding in the very last of the passenger cars and sitting in the back row of seats. With him was of course Rory, as they both lived there currently. But on the opposite set of seats facing them. Where his maids, Rin and Lin. Who were lightly dozing off while leaning into one another with a set of suitcases on the very ends of their seats.

As for the reason of their current state. That was entirely on Brex and Rory's late-night activities which lasted nearly to the end of the night cycle. Which meant that the two Changelings in disguise only had about an hour or so of sleep before they had to get up so that they can get to the train station on time for the early morning schedule.

Zecora was in another seat right on the other side of the maids, as she was looking out the window with interest as the city was beginning to move away now that the train was now in motion. The schedule had their motive transport departing Canterlot at six fifty-five in the morning. Meaning that four minutes had already gone by and the train was halfway out of Canterlot and going down the side of the mountain.

Thanks to the way that the tracks were set up. The train had to first go around the mountain a couple of times until it got to ground level before heading straight to ponyville. Of course, if one was to simply fly straight from the city to the small town then they would have easily have cut down the times substantially, but with the added tracks the distance was increased a fair amount.

When it came to the topic of the missing Gilda. The Griffin turned out to be with twilight and her friends and already at the train station. This came as a surprise to Brex, as he was almost sure that she was going to be with Rainbow and stay at the castle for a while longer. It wasn’t until a little while later after the fiasco at the party, that Gilda came across Twilight in her friends and decided to stay with them instead of tagging along with him and going back to the House of Fancy Pants, along with the rest of the girls.

However, he did find it a little odd with the way they were keeping to themselves when he walked right past them and headed to his current seat at the back of the train. Of course, it didn't escape his attention at all, when he saw the way Pinkie’s hair was slightly deflated, instead of being it's overly poofy self. But it soon went back to its normal state after a few more seconds went by and the pink mare giving him a small wave once she realized he was turning his mask in her direction.

Back to the present. Rory was snuggling up against his right arm with her eyes closed before she opened up the connection to speak with him. “You haven't even gotten within thirty feet and you're already worried about Pinkie?” Rory then continued after a few seconds of silence on his part. “Perhaps now would be a good time to give her that permission she’s been waiting for in order to throw that welcome to ponyville party?”

Brex gave Rory a small sigh from within his mind, before he responded. “I don't want to make this a big deal. We live in a one-room apartment with a small bathroom. So, the odds are she'll try to use Sugar Cube Corner, the Library or possibly Town Hall. Speaking of which. You're the one who insisted that we bring them with us.”

As he was thinking that. Brex nodded his head in the direction of the sleeping maids as he went on. “Did it even cross your mind as to where they’re going to end up sleeping? I’m pretty sure they’ll be fine with anywhere I tell them to sleep, but our place is just too small. The bed could probably hold but it would be a really tight squeeze.”

“I mean, wouldn’t it just be plain weird in everyone’s eyes if a guy and his girlfriend is living in a small room with two maids? It’s not exactly better if we were to do the whole, put them in different rooms on the same floor route. It would make more sense if I just go out to buy or rent a house. Hmm. You know what, that might not be such a bad idea. I might try that. If they only have some place small, then we can somehow make it work out. Somewhere out of the way, preferably at the edge of town. What do you think?”

Rory continued snuggling up against him, as her arms were wrapped around his own and giving off a small hum of amusement as she replied. “My thoughts exactly Master. How do you feel about a place near the Everfree Forest? It would be pretty useful to have all that open space and let’s not forget the solitude. It would also come in handy when you want to come and go without anyone else being none the wiser. Being able to also walk to your special training ground in the forest is an added bonus.”

“I’m pretty sure from the last time I was in ponyville that there weren’t any new homes being built near the forest. Hmm... unless you count that structure that's already being built. There's been a few rumors that I catch wind of here and there about some rich mare buying up the land just over a year and a half ago and immediately started on the construction. I don’t know who it is but to be able to do that must mean that they’re involved in either government work or must be literally drowning in bits.”

Rory shifted her body slightly as she was now getting a little more situated. This meant that she was in a more sit up straight position. She obviously was just about to say something to him, when her eyes shifted towards the door nearby that would lead to the baggage cars further back on the train.

Not even a moment went by before the doors were suddenly torn off the hinges after a female Griffin was thrown through them and into the Roegadyn's car. From the amount of force required to do that to the door, along with the speed at which the Griffin travelled and skidding to a stop, must have meant that she was thrown or hit really hard.”

From a quick glance on his part, he could easily tell from the amount of messed up parts of her leather armor that she was in a scuffle. There was even a large amount of red substance that gave off the coppery smell of blood and it was covering most of her body. He then surmised that it wasn’t from her, as the amount needed would have clearly led to her immediate death.

His attention was quickly brought to the doorway after hearing someone taking heavy steps. Once the person came into view, he can feel himself freezing up as he looked upon the sight of who it was. Right there, standing in an iconic set of clothing and wielding a large pistol in his right hand. Said pistol was also being pointed straight at the Griffin. The male than said the following in a tone in a manly voice that had a hint of maliciousness behind it. “The Commonwealth says hello!”