A Roegadyn in Equestria

A Roegadyn in Equestria.

Chapter 74: Great… Field Trip Chaperones.

*Point of view: Brex*
*Location: Ponyville, the home of Brex*
*Time: Four days later. Eleven in the morning*

For Brex, the last handful of days came and went with a mix of it being fast paced, while others were at a snail’s pace. The training session with the melee part of the group went well. Even the Ponyville guard that was present before was there to keep an eye on things. Whereas the magic portion a few days later was mostly done indoors and in the front yard. When it came to the Everfree Forest, Brex only took Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy in a short distance compared to the first group and stayed nowhere near as long.

As expected, Twilight had the basic theorems down when it came to the use of the Thaumaturges. The only real problem was that she clearly did not have enough personal experience to not overdraw on her ether supply when casting her fire spells. This was due to how she would not alternate with the use of ice spells so that her reserves could fill during combat. For the class Twilight chose. One had the ability to use fire, ice and lightning for their attack spells.

If one was to think about it in a broad term. Then fire would be seen as the primary offensive spell with the most destructive power. As the Thaumaturge get stronger. The element being used in succession would gain more strength, but it would also require a larger amount of Aether to activate the spell. Now when it came to the ice. It was the same yet at the same time different. Yes, each continuous use of the ice-based spell would increase its overall output and cost by a small amount. Except, it had the ability to bolster one’s Aether regeneration to were a couple of them would be enough to completely restore Twilight’s reserves. Albeit at the cost of not being nowhere near as powerful as a fire spell.

The lightning however was more of a short-term damaging effect that would be applied to a target. Also commonly referred to as a D O T. Or damage over time. It would not be powerful enough to take down who she was fighting on its own at the start. But over time, it would do a considerable amount while she was busy with using some other spells. Now if only she could get over the whole bit where she gets flustered and confused while in the middle of an actual fight that did not give her plenty of time to think of what to do.

As for Rarity. Her control and finesse were a great asset when utilizing the Red Mage class. It even helped that her attention to detail aided in balancing her white and black energy which was a byproduct of the red Mages spells being used. With this class one had to alternate between two realms of magic in order to stay effective. For example, if someone was to cast too many that would draw for either white or black, then everything would be for a loss of better words, out of whack. Spells would take longer to cast and their overall power would diminish.

Her use of the blade itself that would have a focal device attached at the end of the handle was remarkably precise to where Brex wondered if she would have been better off with a melee class. At least when it came to fighting the training dummies in the yard. The Red Mage in particular was one that he himself found challenging to master in the beginning with how it alternated from both magic and close-range combat. The only real issue was how she was very insistent on not getting dirty so it was a hindrance when it came to actually being in a fight. This was especially so when they were in the Everfree forest and she would completely panic and lose all control at the worst of times.

The third member was one that he needed to take a delicate hand in teaching thanks to her docile nature. Being out of the healing class, Fluttershy took on the roll quite easily. Yes, it was true that their main priority was to keep everyone else alive. But there would be certain situations where she could use some offensive spells whenever her services for that roll were not currently needed. Brex did not even find out until halfway through their session that Fluttershy divulged to never using an offensive spell on anything alive.

In fact, the only objects that felt any Wrath from the yellow mare was nothing other than training dummies. And even then, she just could not bring herself to do any significant damage other than a few scratches here and there. She would even go so far as to profusely apologize and run over afterwards to see if she can fix the training tool in some way or another. What he did find intriguing was how her summoned familiar known as a carbuncle, was a distinctly different color than those of others. Typically, they would always come out as a bluish shade and adorned with a red gem on the forehead.

Sure, this one did have the gem as expected but it was green and color. Normally one can only change the way their carbuncle appeared after reaching level thirty and completing a specialized Quest that would give the player the ability to personalize them into certain forms. Now if that wasn't the end of it, then it had to be when the carbuncle would react without being given orders all the time. Brex remembered quite vividly to the time that they were in the Everfree forest and surrounded by the group of insectoid creatures.

Sure, Fluttershy did attempt to cast some offensive spells, but they had hardly any strength behind them. Whereas the carbuncle was tearing its way through them without being issued an order after order. To him it was as if it was working completely independently and Fluttershy's safety was its paramount duty to perform. There were even times that he saw how the carbuncle would look in his direction and not break its eye contact with his form for extended periods of time before cuddling up to Fluttershy.

As for the particulars for Fluttershy's class. The Conjurer was different when it came to the use of magic when compared to Twilight and Rarity requiring their spell focus items to draw the ambient ether to assist in their spells. As the others needed to concentrate in order for their spells to take effect more often. The grimoire afforded to Fluttershy acted as a perfect spell matrix so that all she needed to do was to supply them the Aether required for the spell to work. In fact, she did not have to worry about overloading as it would keep it all in check due to the runes inscribed within. In a sense it was the most energy efficient of the three.

When Brex had them all in the Everfree Forest. He took on the role of the tank by switching over to his Paladin class. Although, he's still appeared to be wearing his robes and his weapons having the appearance of bronze. He was equipped with his level seventy gear that had been glamoured. Just as the previous few days earlier, Brex lowered his level so that he was the same as the others as to not throw their experience completely out of whack to the point that they would get nothing. In a way, they essentially kept a diamond formation with him as the vanguard and Fluttershy in the rear. Twilight and Rarity would take up the sides and behind Brex to be kept out of danger.

Although there were a few instances where he was nearly hit by friendly fire by Twilight, who had these momentary lapses in judgment when the situation suddenly changed due to one thing or another. The other problem was with Rarity because of all the times her spells would get interrupted whenever she realized she was just about to get herself dirty. There were even occasions where Brex thought that he had somehow not detected that there was a creature that was coming up from behind. This was whenever Fluttershy screamed in fright whenever they were on the move or even in mid battle. Most of which was just her getting spooked by one of the scarier aspects of the forest itself.

By the end, they all managed to gain a couple of levels thanks to their little outing. Even little Fluttershy eventually caught up closer to her friends thanks to the boosting gear that she was given before they headed out. Thankfully enough, this time he did not have to deal with some misunderstanding when she was asked to go inside so that the glamouring process could be done on her gear. Brex just chalk this up to them all being told about it ahead of time by Applejack and the others.

Although, there was a momentary interruption from Twilight as she was going into her so called full research mode and asking Fluttershy a multitude of questions regarding how she felt when putting on the items. Much to his dismay, a number of them were thrown in his direction as well. For him it was mostly consisted of what was the material made out of. Who taught him how to do the enchantments and so on. As far as Brex knew from personal experiences. Most gear that was circulated did not have stat boosting effects. And only those that had deep pockets could afford them with how costly they could get on the market.

So, it did not come off as too much of a surprise with the way Applejack reacted when he gave her all of those items. Normally the clothing, earrings and ring were exclusive Quest items or online store bought for the game. Which meant that he should normally not have had extras on hand to just hand out. But it was thanks to his magic scanning spells that he used in tandem that he was capable of learning how to make them himself after going over them a while back.

The clothing would be good until they were close to level thirty. This was also true for the blue ring itself. Whereas the earring would keep scaling and continue with the experience boost until one was to meet their max level of seventy. Twilight and Fluttershy requested that there's were to look more normal. Whereas Rarity was practically gushing with how well the blue ring and earrings matched her cutie mark so she opted to keep them as they were.

As for this very moment. Brex was holding a couple of fingers up to the side of his hood while also holding between them a link pearl and speaking into it. “All right, we'll meet you at the rendezvous point in twenty minutes. Just remember your parts and don't say anything unnecessary.” Afterwards, he brought the link Pearl back down and placed it back into his inventory before walking off to join the group of mare’s and Griffin who were waiting a short distance away.

At a glance they were all having in their possession their gear along with a small backpack of various colors to match the owner. Although, it seemed as though Rarity’s looked as if it could have held everything in her house which would have included the kitchen sink with how bulky it looked when compared to the rest. The reason for all of this was due to their class going on a trip into the Everfree forest and Brex informed all the girls that they should bring whatever they thought they needed for a couple of hours. If anything, there was even a chance that they might not even be back until shortly before sundown.

Right as he was getting close. Rory stepped next to him to look over the others before casually speaking. “So, Master. This is your plan huh?” Brex remained silent for a few seconds and this gave Rory the incentive to continue as she placed both hands behind her back to lazily lean forward so that she could look up to his mask from the right side.

“A catastrophic event didn't happen today so this is your backup plan to avoid the princess of the sun, isn't it? Just take everyone and go far away for an all-day training session. Even going so far as to call in the Yuna for pickup. One might even see all of this as your attempt to run but I'm sure you didn't mean for that… right?”

To all there, there was nothing wrong with Brex. But from behind his mask, the Roegadyn was sweating bullets while carefully glancing down to Rory and keeping his emotions in check. In all honesty this was exactly as Rory said. He wanted nothing more than to get out of there before Celestia arrived. Sure, he did have a copy of himself at the castle. However, there was no telling exactly when she would just decide to teleport over. As far as he knew, there was no preparation being put into effect for a carriage to transport her to Ponyville on the other end of his connection.

After all, the solar Princess was not supposed to have a real visit to Ponyville for a number of episodes for the meet and greet like in the show. This meant that there was the possibility of her using magic to travel straight to his place. He then released a small grunt of annoyance that came off a bit more of a growl before he replied. “And just who was it that invited her here anyway?” This got Rory to roll her eyes before adopting an innocent expression to that remark. She even went so far as to bump her tail into his leg in order to try and get him out of his grumpy state.

She then said, “I could possibly be placed in second place in this world when it comes to how much I don't like that mare. First place undeniably being my Master. But even I can see that she's not all that bad.” This earned her a tilt of the head from him before she hastily went on. “Yes yes, I still think about cutting off for horn and jamming it up her ass for what she did. But please Master. If not for yourself then at least do it for me. Getting hung up on her is not going to help you move on. I really believe that if you can get over this hurdle, then taking off your mask while in front of others is going to be so much easier.”

By then, her right hand was now holding on to his left and squeezing tightly as she continued in a worried tone. “I can tell that my Master has done a great job in opening up over the years. Even to where you'll give me permission to show myself to them when I feel comfortable. I just don't want to see you living in the shadows for too much longer. Sooner or later this mask needs to come off. And I don't mean the one out here. The one inside needs to be removed as well.” Rory had used her other hand and placed her palm onto his chest by this point before her gaze was squarely set onto the eye holes of his mask before she continued this time through the connection.

“You're always worried about the what ifs and coming up with one plan or another. You're out of your comfort zone whenever you have to fly by the seat of your pants. Not to mention how stiff you can get. I've seen that part of you that you rarely show the others when it comes to having fun. I may not always hear your thoughts, but I know that you feel as though you need to hold back. Now I promise I won't do something like this again, so please think about what I said. It's not as though I'm expecting you to start talking to her. Heck, you can either have me say what you want or use that handwriting spell again.”

Brex closed his eyes before taking in a steady intake of air to fill his lungs to capacity and released after holding it in for a few seconds in the same way. From behind is mask, Brex had a gentle expression before placing his hand on top of Rory's head to give a light pat as he replied through the connection.

“Heh-heh! Hard to believe that I’ve gone and met demigods and fought beings that have been summoned from other dimensions. Yet I can't even bring myself to follow one of the essential steps to getting past trauma such as confronting my fear when it comes to her... I could just see little Moon getting frustrated over my indecisions. OK fine… I’ll… Try. But I’m not making any real promises that I’ll get along with her. I wonder if this is what it’s like to have a personal guidance counselor on call twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week.”

Rory gave a confidence smirk as she released her grip and took a few steps backwards before replying. “Everyone should be so lucky to have their own Rory! Now I think we should probably get going. I could already see Rainbow and Gilda getting impatient with the way their wings are flicking from agitation.” Brex then said the next bit in a whimsical tone. “Yeah, even Gilda has her limits when it comes to Pinkie bouncing around the place with nothing to do.” Now that could not be truer, as the pink mare was in the middle of asking Gilda a couple of questions and the Griffin was now having a twitching left eye and a growing scowl as a result.

That was when Brex loudly clapped his hands together one time to get all of their attention. Once they were all looking, did he speak up while pointing over his right shoulder and towards the front gate. “Okay! Now listen up! Double check what you got and we'll head out in a couple of minutes. Our destination is deep in the Everfree forest. By ground, it will take us about two days to get there and that's taking into account the dense underbrush and a study pace that we all can manage. However, we only have to go a short distance so that we can meet up with our ride. This will cut down the travel time from days, to only between thirty minutes to an hour.”

Rarity was the first one to speak up as she had this worried expression when talk of going into the Everfree came up. “Pardon me darling… but is there any particular reason as to why we have to dredge our way through that awful forest? If there are other means of transport waiting for us then would it not be better to have it come here instead and pick us all up?” This got a couple of nods from a few of the others just before Rory stepped up to answer the mare’s question.

“That is because our ride has not been officially announced to the public and meeting in the forest would reduce the chance of rumors circulating any further than they already have.” Twilight scrunched up her face as she had this contemplating expression. This lasted for a good couple of seconds before she snapped back with a sudden gasp. “Tech Hex! I completely forgot about what was said at the Gala! Does this happen to have anything to do with the new airships that's been going around in gossip? I remember hearing a couple of the nobles talking about such a thing. T H I S will be introducing their new airship designs to the public very soon.”

Rory gave a nod to the purple Unicorn, along with a big smile and saying, “Right on the nose there! You're all going to be in on a real treat. We're going to be riding on the very prototype that just got its last adjustments made. It will be coming in from deeper in the forest so that it won't be seen by anyone in Ponyville. All we need to do is get far enough in and reach the designated clearing that it's going to land.”

Rory then pointed towards the forest with her right hands thumb before going on. “The plan is to use it on a more regular basis so that we can get to areas to optimize your leveling. My master has already documented where we should go within the forest depending on what we need to fight. Oops, I should have said, what YOU need to fight. Master and myself will only be playing the roles of tanking or healing if needed.

Gilda chimed in as she was shrugging her shoulders. “Another healer would have been covered. But Zecora said she was catching up on some potions she was meaning to brew up. The Zebra might be up for it next time. Oh well. If my Master's plan is to get the rest of you caught up, then Zecora’s got some time to spare before that happens.” Brex didn't want to admit it but he found the way Gilda said that he was her master to be a bit of a turn-on. Yet at the same time, he felt ashamed that he was having those types of feelings when he knew her from when she was younger and it made him wonder if it was alright with the whole being betrothed.

Rainbow was standing right next to the Griffin when this was done and she elbowed her as she said her next words and a joking tone. “Now that's going to take some getting used to hearing you say that. You never even called our instructors by teacher even once back in school. He's not making you say that, is he?” Gilda playfully shoved the blue Pegasus before adopting a small blush while turning away slightly before grumbling to herself. This went on for a few more minutes until everyone was all set to go and started to follow Brex and Rory towards the front gate. All the while, the two maids stayed behind and waved farewell from just outside of the front doors to his house.

Brex open the gate and everyone filed right outside. As soon as he had closed it and turned around to give any further instructions. The space between him and the others erupted in a near blinding white flash and a noticeable pop could be heard. Most of them, including Brex shielded their eyes as quickly as they could when this happened. Once they were sure that they were no longer going to get blinded and whatever caused it faded away. It was quickly revealed that the two co-rulers of Equestria stood right out in the open.

On the right was Celestia and she was wearing what may have been considered as civilian clothing but of a higher quality than most. Although, it still had that hint of a Roman theme going. Unlike the flowing dresses that would be worn in the castle. This one was cut just a couple of inches short from touching the ground. Most of it was white but there were a couple of other shades of pink and light blue that matched her mane. What's more was the lacking of golden regalia, which came off as weird to Brex as she was never seen without it in public. However, she was wearing a choker with the same color of gem that would normally be seen in her tiara.

Luna was dressed in a similar fashion but in her typical colors as per the norm. Aside from the color, the only thing that really stood out from seeing them both stand next to one another was the way Luna's chest had this modest cut to the top where it came down near her breasts to show just a little cleavage. But when compared to Celestia, one wondered if the twins set of orbs were ready to pop out at the slightest flex of her exposed shoulders.

Their dresses even that this thing where there was a patch open from where the hips went down along the sides and nearly halfway down to the knees so that their hips could be more pronounced. When it came to their faces. Brex could see how Luna had her makeup done no differently. Whereas Celestia was clearly wearing an extra shade of dark eye shadow than what she would normally be wearing at the castle.

It did not take more than a second or two before Twilight and the rest of her friends immediately started to bow so low, that Brex thought the Unicorns were about to bury half of their horns into the grass. The only ones that were still standing and not showing the same level of respect was Brex near the gate and both Gilda and Rory on the other side of the princesses with their arms crossed and containing a smoldering glare that was clearly focused on Celestia.

Brex however, was not in the right set of mind after getting a surprise teleportation at such a close proximity. From behind his mask, his eyes went wide as his pupils shrunk. He could literally feel the muscles in his legs twitch as he consciously fought the urge to get into a defensive stance. He could not even bring himself to breathe for a couple of seconds before hearing Luna's surprisingly gentle voice. “Please, there will be none of that this day. Rise, for we are not here on official business. Ah! And well met sir Gambit! I pray thou have been well.”

Luna's attempt to break the ice was having a positive effect on Brex as he was now beginning to breathe normally and his joints were no longer locked up from the tension. However, his chest was another matter. Not only was his heart beating a million miles an hour and delivering a large amount of adrenaline to course through his veins. But there was also this uncomfortable stabbing pain right at the center of where his ribs would meet together. If it was not for the shock at the beginning, then he would have flinched for all to see. But now it was beginning to slowly make itself known and was causing his right eye to wince at how uncomfortable it was becoming.

All the while his eyes never once left Celestia's face, which was staring straight at his own with an expression that he was having some trouble with describing. Clearly the princess of the sun had on her legendary princess mask. Yet, there was a few emotions that broke through the surface. These turned out to be shock, fear, relief, anxiousness and something else that he could not put a name to. This lasted for only a second before she calmed down enough and spoke in the same way as she turned her sights to see just who was around. Upon seeing her student, the Princess of the sun spoke with a tone of relief.

“Oh Twilight. Thank goodness we arrived before departing on your excursion. I do hope we are not an interruption.” Twilight quickly replied to that after getting back up. “What a surprise to see you here princess! I wish I’d known you would be coming to Ponyville! There were so many preparations that needs to be done for a royal visit! Oh no, was this a surprise test? Was I supposed to be ready?! Oh no oh no oh no where's my list?! Did I not quadruple check it this morning?!” Celestia giggle to this before she began to reassure Twilight that nothing was amiss.

All the while Brex was beginning to grit his teeth while shifting his surprise eyes to that of a venomous glare. He even began to talk to himself angrily from inside of his head. “Yes… you are interrupting! now can you please tell us why you're here so you can get back to that plushy Throne of yours and out of my sight! I'm beginning to wonder if putting a surveillance item inside of the princess's bed chambers would be a good idea to start doing... My body double didn't see them come out of their rooms so I had no way of knowing they were doing this. What is this… Gerr… Am I having heartburn?”

His eyes quickly glanced between Rory and Celestia a couple times to gauge everyone's current position before he continued. “If things go wrong here, then not only am I in danger, but so is she. Gerrr... fine, I'll play your game! I'll follow Rory's advice and try… And I mean really try the best I can to act as civil as possible. Maybe if I just let them know that we're leaving right now then they'll just go and try another day.” And with that, Brex walked over to Rory but made sure to take a circular route so that he did not come any closer to the solar princess than needed.

Everyone else there was giving the two rulers the usual song and dance of bowing and giving their respects before Brex interrupted them by clapping his hands loudly a few times. Twilight looked at him with a look of confusion and embarrassment that was also mirrored on a few of the others before he lifted one of his fingers into the air. It was soon followed by a noticeable glow that expanded into a two-dimensional word bubble. Soon some words appeared for everyone in front of him to read. “We were just leaving. perhaps the visit could wait for another day?”

There was this noticeable sigh of resignation through the connection with Rory as she quickly said, “I guess this is an improvement. Technically you're talking to her.” Everyone else was looking between Brex and Princess Celestia as if they were waiting for some big event to happen that would undoubtedly be written in the next history book.

Even Luna was peeking her head up and just over Celestia's right shoulder to see what was happening with some trepidation on her face. Clearly as to whether or not she should step in by how he saw it from the corner of his vision that was still tracing every movement of Celestia's facial features for the slightest sign of danger coming his way. During the next few seconds, he also began to feel that uncomfortable sensation in his chest growing as if someone was slowly inserting a needle into one of his bones.

What he got was a gentle smile that vaguely creeped him out to see from her to give to him. It Was Then followed with a small bow of the head which surprised everyone there aside from Luna as she spoke. “I never had the chance to thank you for the invitation. I suppose it may have slipped your mind that we were to visit this day. Luckily enough with a little work, our schedules have allowed us enough free time that we are not needed until the sun goes down. If anything, we could come back in a couple of hours when your business is done.”

Twilight was the next to speak up as she stepped a little closer to Brex. “Um, if the princess is here then I don't mind us postponing our field trip.” Brex immediately responded with writing. “I will not drop what I am doing for them. Our ride is already on the way. Also, we won't be back until nearly sunset. Please try another day.”

From here it started a go-between as Celestia and Gambit began an odd conversation which caused the rest to bounce their eyes to the one currently speaking or writing in the same way a group of Spectators would track a ball that was being hit back and forth across a tennis court net.

“I'm afraid my scheduling is not so easy to push around when it comes to leaving the castle for extended periods of time. One would never know when it would be possible to come back.”

“You must have more important matters to do then to enter the forest. More rules or at least then enforcement of them must take precedence over a hike into dangerous woods.”

“No need to worry. All other tasks have been caught up on in preparation for this day.”

“Then why not go to the spa now that you are here in Ponyville? Surely a sister's day out is much needed when paperwork is not in your way. From what I understand you both have conflicting schedules that keep you apart.”

“It does sound quite lovely. But my sister and I can easily make time for ourselves back at the castle.”

“But that's still at the castle. Going out must be a real treat for you.”

“Yes yes, you're right about that. But we have had our sights set on finally meeting you face-to-face ever since the Gala. Or should I say face-to-mask in this case. There was hardly any time for us to converse back at the Gala.”

“The Everfree forest is no place for princesses to be seen in. Odds are your dresses would get dirty and it would not help with your… standing. After all… you live in another world compared to the rest of us.”

“Everyone gets dirty from time to time and a simple cleaning spell will take care of it all.”

“This is a training trip so you will not be getting my full attention. Hence this would be a waste of a visit. Perhaps making the best of your free time would on the forefront of your concerns.”

“Oh, I am quite fine with observing how my student and her friends are faring. By joining I can make a fair assessment on whether or not to recommend an escort for when you all go into the forest in the future. And it is just as you say, it is quite dangerous. Some extra precaution is not uncommon.”

His right eye was now starting to twitch with growing agitation as he wrote the next bit. “They are all in good hands. I would rather so much as lose my right arm before anything bad happens to them.” Brex knew that this was a low blow, but he just couldn't help but let that slip out. Especially with how he was beginning to get distracted from the pain. Of course, he was dead serious that he was willing to let that happen if it meant protecting them in some way. But he really wanted Celestia to back down even if it meant him playing the role of the insensitive jerk. This of course got a small wince from Celestia before she continued with her reply.

“Oh... I... I see what you mean. Your commitment is quite admirable. If only more stallions were as self-assured as you, then Equestria would no doubt be a better place. But please, I assure you I will not get in the way unless I am needed of course. I merely want to exchange some words when possible, that is all.”

There was a long pause before Brex wrote the following. “Very well. We wouldn't want our mutual students to be distracted if I were to send you away right now. However, at the first sign that I feel that you are not to stay, then you are to leave, is that understood?” Of course, what he said about Twilight was absolutely true. As he knew that the future princess of friendship was going to be too distracted to make any real progress if he did not allow her teacher to join. He then thought the following to himself in a firm tone as his eyes sharpened from behind his mask. “You win this time. But only because of Twilight and the rest. Wouldn't be too wise to create a rift.”

Of course, this was not going to make anything easier on him, as Brex knew that he was required to lower his level so that it would not negate the experience the others would get if he was to be a part of everything. So, from that very moment he brought up his menu options and stuck it to the edge of his vision so that he was able to switch his level up to maximum at a moment's notice if Celestia and Luna were to try something.

There was no way in hell that he was going to be caught in the same situation as back when he was fighting that Imp in the carnival tent. But this time he had the backup of Rory who could easily give him enough time to react as she would be keeping a close eye on both of the princesses as much as himself. Now if he could only do something about his chest then this whole situation could be more bearable as his irritation was slowly building overtime.

Rather reluctantly at first, Brex turned his back and began to walk along the outer wall and towards the Everfree forest. But as he did this, the hairs on the back of his neck began to stand on their own as every fiber of his being was screaming that he did the worst possible thing in the world by exposing his back towards the Princess of the sun. It also did not help that there was this stabbing sensation that was only getting worse in his chest. If anything, there was no way that he was going to show weakness with her around.

Among everybody making their own conversations, which included Celestia and Twilight who were getting caught up with one another. Luna's voice could be heard in a joyous tone as she half-heartedly yelled. “Huzzah! For too long have we not had an adventure through the woods such as our younger years! Perhaps we will encounter a Hydra to test our metal!” Just hearing Luna saying that caused Brex to calm down a bit more. This was most likely due to how the two of them already got to develop a bond through the dream realm. In fact, if Luna was not standing beside her older sister, then he might have gone so far as to pull out a weapon when they first popped up.

While in the woods. He would take point and lead them through and onto the path that was previously picked out. Rory however was taking up the rear so that she could not only keep an eye out for any dangerous animals, but to keep a close eye on the rest of the group so that she could send any type of warning to Brex upon his suggestion. As soon as they had gotten near the end and about to enter the clearing that could be seen up ahead. Gilda broke away from Rainbow and caught up to him so that she was walking along on his left side.

From the corner of his vision, he can see how she was glancing from where she was walking, and back to the princesses ever so often as she spoke to him in a whisper. “Hey, how are you holding up there big guy? I haven't seen you this tense or closed off since back when I was just a chick.” Before he responded, Brex used one of his spells to detect for any magic being used in his vicinity in case the princesses were using a spell of their own to amplify sound. Once there were no clear signs of them eavesdropping, he replied in his own whisper to Gilda to start their own back and forth.

“I'll… be fine.”

“You are not fooling me with that.”

“It's nothing… Really.”

“Like Tartarus it's nothing. The one who killed you is suddenly in our group as if nothing ever happened and we're just going on a picnic. And I've studied you for a while now and I know that you were ready to pull out a weapon on her. You're never this jumpy. Remember my race are hunters. We can practically sense fear. And you mister are just exploding with it.”

“It will pass.”

“Now look here, you haven't started talking like that in years with me. Clearly, you're not fine if that's going on. If it makes you feel any better than I don't like her being here either. I also reached for my spear when I found out it was her standing there after that flash. From what you said, or at least wrote to her. I'm guessing you wanted to get out of Ponyville before she arrived. Let me in on the plans next time. I could have helped with pushing everybody into the forest quicker.”

“I'll handle it.”

“That’s enough of that. I know how tough you are, there's no denying that. But I'd rather be there for my future husband if he's in any trouble. If I didn't, then what kind of a fiancé would I be if I was going to stand back and watch you in this condition and not say or do anything.”

“Since when did you start getting all mushy?”

“I Uh, Um. Hey! I'm not getting mushy! I got a reputation to maintain and I can't have you falling apart and ruining it, that's all. Don't go looking into it too much.” This was followed with Gilda giving a small grunt as she sharply turned her face away.

The group, along with the two extra guests waited in the clearing for a few minutes and witnessed the Yuna coming in from the west at a low altitude where it was just barely skimming the top of the trees. From where he stood, Brex could already tell that there were a few additional changes to the outer design to streamline the efficiency. The panels that separated the sections were almost seamless from where he was on the ground and wondered if it was due to some engineering changes or magically induced. The exterior cannons that were standing out and could have been confused for intake vents were also changed so that they too meshed with the aesthetics.

Right as it got overhead, everyone's clothing and hair were lightly blown by a small continuous gust of wind that was being pushed down. When the entire ship was lowered till it was only a couple of meters off the ground, did one of the side hatches open and lower the boarding ramp that extended thanks to a set of hydraulics built into not only the door frame but the extendable half it created to the ground in a matter of seconds. Normally, this would have been impossible where the ship itself would have been securely docked for this to be used. But the scientists back at HQ got the propulsion system to be exact in holding the ship in place while still in the air to use this boarding mechanism.

The group of Brex, Rory and Gilda looked on with small smiles on their lips. Whereas the others could only stand there with jaws wide open while marveling at the site of the floating ship that was clearly meant for royalty to ride in if one was to go off the decorations on the hull alone. Brex could hear Twilight barely coming out of her stupor as she was saying something to Celestia from under her breath. “P-Princess, w-we don't have any ships that even come close to this one... let alone the design, but the propulsion system as well, I can't recognize a single part. Could this be what those rumors were about?”

From the corner of his eye, he could tell that Princess Celestia was putting on an act to mirror the others in their shock. This was because they probably got plenty of descriptions from their spy that tagged along to Zebrabwe. As for the others, they were left speechless for a couple of seconds before they notice Brex leading the way onto the ramp and everyone got into a simple line and followed him up. Among all of the murmuring, Rainbow was zooming around the ship a couple of times before she went inside and said how awesome it all looked. Unsurprisingly, she even posed the question as to how fast it could go and boasted that she could outfly it if it was to come down to a race.

Once on board and the hatch was closed once again. Rory took the initiative and began to talk to a few of the crew members that were waiting at the hatch for further instructions. Everyone else was completely enamored by the exterior, that Brex was sure that they hardly noticed the way that both of the princesses seemed familiar with the layout in some way or another. In fact, the only parts that drew their eyes were the subtle changes that were made after coming back to Equestria that he himself caught on to.

The hallway itself felt a couple of inches wider, along with some of the control panels being moved over to one place or another. Some were even completely redesigned with their outlook. He then thought to himself without taking his eyes off of the uninvited guests. “Wow! They sure work fast over at HQ to have done this much retrofitting over the course of a couple of days. I guess that's what you get when you have a hive-mind and could literally think of thousands of ideas and run them by one another in real time. What would take a team of humans to discuss and figure out in a month they could probably take care of in a matter of a few hours.

He then opened up the connection so that he could talk directly to Rory to let her know that he was going up onto the observation deck and requested that she should show the others around so that they could get situated for the ride. Once that was done, he excused himself and slipped away by going down one of the corridors and up a set of stairs. When he was at the top, he glanced down to see if anyone was following. Once he was sure he was alone, the Roegadyn approached the right side of the ship and placed both of his hands onto the railing that was just a couple of inches away from the glass windows that started from the floor and ran all the way up to the ceiling.

The observation deck itself had not gone under any additional changes with how it was just meant to be for relaxation. The glass itself was several inches thick and comprised of what was meant to be a similar version to that of bulletproof glass. Even the outer and inner surface was coated with an enzyme derived from the Changelings cocoons and chrysalis Chambers to give it some extra fortification. This meant that it would not only take a direct missile and barely show a scratch, but the coating itself would add an extra layer of resistance to magic and chemicals that could possibly get onto the glass itself.

Brex only stood there for a couple of seconds before he found himself leaning forward and lowering his head as a grunt escaped his lips. The pain from before had just begun to lessen before it started back up again. His left arm reached up swiftly and clutched his fingers into the fabric of his robes right over the center of his chest in such a way that it threatened to rip it open from how much force he was using with his fingertips. His other hand that was still hanging on to the guardrail was squeezing even tighter. This went onto where his whole arm was beginning to even shake.

The pain he had been feeling had only gotten worse as time went on. It literally felt as though something was thrusted into his rib cage and his insides were swirling with a mix of hot and cold sensations. From behind his mask, he was running a cold sweat as his eyes were clenched tightly closed and his teeth were grinding as he was trying to hold back from making any more noise. No matter how hard he tried, Brex just could not figure out what was happening as his vision showed no signs of taking on any kind of negative effect recently.

This continued for a couple of minutes before they began to slowly subside. In an odd way, the progression of this made him think that's some invisible knife was slowly being pulled out of his chest in the order of how his lungs were the first to feel relief. Next came to the bone and his skin being last. Brex was fairly sure that if he was without his mask right now, then his reflection on the glass before himself would have displayed someone who had the same expression right after throwing up in the toilet for the past couple of hours.

Now standing up right and taking in a few calming breaths. Brex released his grip on his clothing and straightened out the fabric with the same hand as he began to think the following to himself. “What in the seven hells was all that? A panic attack? I've had a couple of panic attacks in the past but this... this was new. Maybe getting a checkup isn't really that bad of an idea.” He had released a small sigh of relief and closed his eyes for a brief moment before the pain came back with fury and the sound of footsteps could be heard coming up the stairs behind a few seconds later.

When he slightly turned his head to the right. The site of a white horn and a mane of bright multicolored hair could be seen coming up onto the deck he was on. This only caused the sharp prick from before to begin and slowly grow as more of Celestia's form could be seen. His right eye winced for about a brief second as he thought about why this was happening. Even at the Gala, this was not present during the time that he spent a brief moment in her company. There was something clearly wrong with his body but he did not want to show it, so he gritted his teeth to keep himself composed from behind his mask as she drew closer with every step.

He turned his head so that he was looking outside while also using the reflection to watch her every movement. The solar princess was now on his right side as her own right hand was now holding on to the railing from just a few steps away. Her form was partly turned so it was halfway between staring straight out of the ship and facing himself as there was a drawn-out silence that filled the observatory. From the way the glass had this small curve. Brex had a hard time with making out her exact expression.

Her eyes were clearly looking outside with her princess mask beginning to waiver as time went on and her sights lowering just a little. Brex was getting dangerously close to just leaving right then and there if it was not for what Celestia said next. “Thank you...” This was only followed with more silence as Brex was clearly confused before she continued with what she was going to say. “Thank you for putting the others first. A small part of me expected that you would cancel today all because of my stubbornness.”

“Also, I wanted to thank you for opening my eyes on a few topics that have eluded my notice. My subjects have been coddled for far too long. I once believed that my kingdom only had small problems sprinkled around. I had no idea that the most heinous crimes were right underneath my very own nose. I had my suspicions but it was you, was it not? You were the one that snuck into my room and place that music box on my bed. And in doing so you prevented my nephew from being taken advantage of by another that I trusted.”

“Just as it was nearly a millennia ago when the purge of the corrupt nobles was under gone. So was more found again in recent days. It makes one wonder if it all could have been different if it was not for one rash decision on my part.” Celestia was now grabbing on to the railing with both hands as her head was hanging low to obscure her face from showing on the glass. It was not until then that Brex began to pick up the strong aroma of vanilla filling the air. He then thought to himself about how much she must have been eating cake to have it stuck to her this badly.

Brex wanted to get away right that second, but he held out just to see where this was going. Princess Celestia's voice began to show signs of cracking as she lowered it so that it was at a volume that he was most likely the only one that was meant to hear with their proximity. “I'm sorry... I can't say it enough and I know it's not going to change your mind. I'm not as clueless as one might believe. Your deeds over the past decade are now known to both I and my sister.”

“The Elements of Harmony for one. Applejack's family was about to be killed by a pack of Timberwolves. You saved a number of them when they were just children. Rarity was kidnapped and close to being sold off into slavery along with a number of others by unscrupulous figures running a carnival. You were there underneath Cloudsdale. I didn't know then, but it was undoubtedly you who flew past me when I went to see what was the cause of the unnatural balance of nature that day.”

“So much positive energy was expelled and obliterated what was most likely the cause of the air being stagnant. I saw the swirling vortex of wind and the bright lights. I attempted to give chase but you were too fast for even I to catch up before I lost sight of you over the mountains. Then to my surprise, you show up over a month later in Canterlot. I found the same unmistakable magic energy coming from the hospital and rushed as fast as I could to try and find you. To think you were saving the life of my future student’s father. I could scarcely imagine of how many others you have helped that I am not aware of. Never… Never should I have called you a monster...”

Princess Celestia shoulders were beginning to show signs of shaking and a single teardrop fell onto the floor below as she continued. “Even my own sister who I lost was brought back to me. I may be hated... but I am so grateful for everything you've done... the thought of not making things right is just eating me up inside.” Over with Brex, he could not help but to think the following in his head as his inner voice was in clear distress, as his own mind struggled to put them together. “Y-You're not the only one... Gaggh! That's feeling like they're... getting their insides eaten up! I don't know how much longer... I can… handle this!”

This was referring to how the pain was nearly reaching his own spine as his entire body was struggling to stay still. His vision was slowly beginning to show signs of everything becoming hazy before returning to normal every so often. The feeling in his fingers were also going numb as he felt he was going to throw up at any moment. Now he knew something was seriously off and it clearly had to do with being in close proximity to the princess. But luck was apparently on his side as Twilight came rushing up the stairs with a manic look on her face that was most likely from being over stimulated by the new sources magic and unknown technology on the ship.

Once Twilight’s presence was known, Princess Celestia recovered and wiped her eyes before standing up straight to give recognition to her student’s arrival before the young mare knew what was going on. But with the way things were going, Brex just could not even hear what the two were discussing as Twilight was going over some notes. He did not even so much as say goodbye and turned to go down to the lower decks. Once below, he rushed over to his private chambers on the ship and slammed the door shut after getting inside.

He leaned on to the right wall with his hand in order to guide him in the direction of the washroom after taking a few seconds to catch his breath that was coming in erratically. The next set of doors was locked and the lights inside were turned on. With himself now standing in front of the mirror with a sink underneath. The mask was harshly pulled off and thrown to the floor half hazardly as he gripped on to the sink on both sides with his face looking into the mirror.

His eyes went wide as he leaned down and produced a series of both coughing and hacking that filled the bathroom. Some were short, while others were clearly labored as his entire form shuttered in the mirror. After close to a minute past, Brex released one louder cough that resulted in a splattering sound from within the sink. The Roegadyn heaved a few times as he slowly started to stand up straight enough that his face could just barely be seen as it was looking straight into where he was just doing his business in. This was followed by a single drop of blood stretching as it exited his lips by a few inches before releasing whatever hold it had on him before falling down into the sink with a splat.

When the sink came into view, there was a large viscous blob of a red and dark liquid sitting near the drain and half splattered across the rest of the sink. With the way it formed it was easy to tell that it came out as one large piece as the middle was mostly solid. Brex panted while trying to keep himself upright with his arms and examined it with horror stricken across his face. Due to how the bathroom was made. The sound of him taking in a single swallow echoed just as the glob began to show signs of movement.

The splattered edges condensed until they resembled strangly tendrils and the middle mass swelled until a small slit could be seen opening to reveal a Hazel colored eyeball. Brex released a startled yell and stumbled back just far enough to cause his back to collide with the wall. After taking a second or two to steady himself, did he finally walk forward to look at the sink once again.

Only this time there was not anything inside of the drain aside from a couple of stray droplets of his blood. No signs of what he saw before could be found. No smear marks, not even a trail of it moving from where it once was as the sink faucet was closed off the entire time. In a way, it was as if it never even existed in the first place. He even went so far as to take the towel nearby and coil it so that it could slip into the drain to check if whatever it was went down. However, there was not even a single blood stain on the towel when he pulled it back up.

After tossing the towel aside. Brex used his right hands gloved finger to run across his lips. All that was revealed was a very small amount of his own blood smeared on the leather of his index finger. Although the horrible feeling in his chest just happened to subside a great deal to where it was more of an annoyance than anything and still getting better as the moments went on. Brex wanted to ask Rory what happened but felt that the connection had been closed for some time without him noticing. After re-establishing with Rory, Brex asked if she felt if anything was off with him on her end and explained just what occurred.

From what he could tell from what she said next. Rory felt him sever the connection only moments after Celestia came to stand next to him on the observatory deck and only now opened it back up. But she did make a beeline for his room to check up on him in person in the bathroom only a few minutes later. By that time, Brex was sitting on the toilet with the cover pulled down and partially hunched over with his elbows on top of his knees for support. Even his face was left uncovered as his mask was all the way in the corner and turned upright.

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: The Yuna, on the observatory deck*

Twilight was just finishing up with having a discussion with Celestia when it came to her findings and a few possible theories on how the systems on the ship operated when Luna came up the steps to join them after some time passed after Brex unexpectedly slipped away without either one realizing until it was too late. The younger sister motion towards her elder, while facing Twilight to give the unspoken signal of a glance towards the stairway that she wished to be alone with Celestia.

After saying her goodbyes, Twilight went back downstairs to see her friends. Meanwhile, the two began to talk with one another as Luna stood onto her older sisters left side and leaned forward so that her crossed arms were now resting on the railing and started things off with a curious tone as her eyes looked off in the distance over the seemingly endless see of mysterious green known as the Everfree Forest.

“One’s long absence has not gone unnoticed to neither myself or the other passengers. As we have not been kicked off just yet, I had assume discussions were going smoothly. Alas, by judging the unsure nature of your gaze, that may not be the case.”

“I really don't know Luna.”

“Then perhaps we could lend our council if it is accepted. Please, regale with what was said on his part, and do skip yours as I was forced to endure most of last night as your audience in its practice.”

“He…He didn't say anything at all.”

“Ah~. Yes, we did notice the writing spell that was implemented. Very well, if you wish to play that game. then please, tell us what he wrote. But do feel free to paraphrase if you wish.”

“There was, uh. No writing either... At first, I really did think that some leverage was made and dialog would have begun, but my student chose an in-opportune time to seek my company due to her excited nature in regards to this vessel.”

“Very peculiar indeed. Oh, I am referring to the lack of communication, not your student. Stories have already circulated towards my inner circle that mare’s antics in the past. Sir Gambit was most talkative only a short while ago. What could have caused his sudden silence I wonder. Perhaps he had other matters on his mind in regards to the young one’s on the ship? Judging from the window. We are traveling deep into the Everfree Forest after all. Such a trip with warrant our guides complete attention.”

“Perhaps you are right Luna. I don't know why I expected it all to go perfect. Could I have been a little too forceful getting him to allow us to tag along?”

“No, not at all. This is the perfect opportunity to get to know one another. If anything, we will simply fall back and watch his teaching methods from a respectful distance. At the very least it might calm down your condition if you watched him at work. When it came to mother, her urges would calm down somewhat when she saw her colt-friend, or at least that is what she mentioned.”

Celestia paused for a moment as her eyes went wide while looking at Luna after she said those words. Afterwards, she looked away so that she was facing the window. On her reflection, there was a growing redness that started from her cheeks and erupted almost all over. This was before she realized what was going on and covered her face from embarrassment after catching her reflection that was staring right back at her from the glass. She then spoke from behind her now muffled mouth thanks to the set of palms that we’re practically covering most of her face.

“Wha? Won't that only ma-make it worse?”

“I would disagree. Was it not you who displayed dissatisfaction of not being able to go into his dreams along with myself for some time? Consider this making up for lost time if you will. However, I will not hesitate to use the strongest cold spell possible in conjunction with the one I’m currently keeping in effect at this very moment to cool you down if any move on your part should be made out of desperation.”

“Lulu, sometimes I think you're just plan evil... This has got to be payback for getting you trapped underneath my laundry, isn’t it?”

Luna came in and gave her older sister a hug while nuzzling her face against the side of her clearly overstimulated elder sister. But this was before releasing her own set of giggles at the site of a now bright pink Celestia that just chose that very moment to allow her wings to spring out after Luna made a quick comment on watching the way he might give orders to the others in the forest. Luna then said, “Oh my dear sister. I do not have the faintest idea as to what you are insinuating towards.”

From then on and for the following several hours. Brex, along with everybody else departed the Yuna once they arrived and began to set up a small camp nearby. This was by no means meant for an overnight camping trip but more of a quick rest stop. As for the Yuna, it stayed hovering about twenty meters off of the ground so that nothing could sneak on board when no one was watching.

Much to Celestia's dismay, Brex would actively keep his distance from her whenever possible, whether it was with an excuse or simply acting as if he didn't notice she was approaching when walking somewhere else. There were often moments when he would be going off in one direction, but to only pivot on the spot and head somewhere else whenever she attempted to wave him down or to start a conversation.

When it came to Twilight and her friends, they would go into the forest and split off into two groups. In order to keep things relatively balanced when it came to the roles within the two parties. The first group consisted of Rory, Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy. It was thanks to the connection that Rory had the ability to adjust her level as well so there was no trouble at all with the experience being tampered with, as Rory would not be joining at such a high level. Also, with her acting as the tank, Twilight as the range damage dealers along with Rarity. Fluttershy took on the role as the group healer.

Whereas the other group consisted of Applejack as the tank, Rainbow as the melee damage dealer and Brex playing the part of the healer. Unfortunately, there was nothing he could do about Gilda seeing as she was close to hitting level thirty. So instead, she was beside group two and would go into encounters on her own to gain some experience now and then.

Now as for what they were going up against while on this outing. They were mostly coming across creatures such as spiders like the one he showed for his illustration. Some giant wasps that were easily bigger than any of the ponies. There were also more of the same insects that Applejack, Rainbow and Fluttershy encountered a couple of months back. Also due to their lack of experience as seen from their little test. It was agreed upon that the team leaders would be himself and Rory.

Rory was giving commands in an efficient manner that got over some of the flaws between the rest of the girls in her group after just their first encounter. At least there was no one aside from Rory that would get hit by one of Twilight stray fireballs and Rarity was not tripping over anything to hit a comrade with a lightning bolt. In the end, Fluttershy only had to concentrate on healing Rory as she was barely taking any damage in the first place with how well she was defending herself and keeping the monster’s attention on her during all of the skirmishes.

The girl was even intentionally allowing herself to get struck just so the yellow Pegasus would have some real experience in giving aid. The last thing Brex wanted was for Fluttershy to breakdown later on if she should see her friends get injured at a critical moment and be unable to help. To her, getting something lodged in her gut or possibly receiving a blow that would nearly slice off her leg was no different than getting a paper cut by the way she acted.

Of course, Rory was willing to go so far as to get nearly mortally wounded by their standards if it would help Fluttershy in gaining some confidence. But Brex urged her not to do so. Especially with her accelerated healing due to what was inside of her own body. Luckily enough, Rory was able to consciously pull back on her recovering abilities just enough so that the healing spells had something to work on.

The only real issue when it came to the group that Brex was a part of, was the way he could not bring himself to talk out loud while still in earshot of Celestia. So instead, he would give the others instructions by writing in the air just before they started to fight once a target was located beforehand. It was a little choppy at first, but Brex helped out by throwing in some offensive spells here and there, along with a crowd control type to limit the enemies’ options if he felt the group was going to get overwhelmed with too much to do.

Sleep spells and other such that would lower an enemy’s intelligence rating was a big help. In fact, it was almost hilarious when there were too many at first, and half of the wave would suddenly fall face first into the mud and snore so much that bubbles would float right to the surface. When it came to the rest that were practically turned stupid. It was not only him, but the girls nearly fell over laughing when a couple of the creatures were lazily walking into trees over and over again before the spell ran out.

It did not take much time at all before everyone was used to their perspective duties and each encounter went even better than the last. By the time it got close to four in the afternoon and everyone was getting ready to leave. The girls went up a couple of levels and were completely exhausted to where a few required the assistance of the more physically able to get back to the ship. On the way back on the Yuna. A delicious meal was served to commemorate their first group outing as a success and that they should all be proud of themselves.

Of course, Brex went into his room while the others were eating because he could not handle being in close proximity to Celestia. In the meantime, the two rulers were positively gushing over with how delicious the displayed food turned out to be. It did not take too long at all until it was slipped by Rory who stayed with all of them that it was her master that made everything they were eating. As for the dishes, these included the following.

For the drink options.

Water.

Milk.

Mirror Apple Juice.

Pineapple Juice.

Purple Carrot Juice.

Triple Cream Coffee.

Mulled Tea.

For the main dish options.

Beef Stew.

Steamed Catfish.

Beet Soup.

Baked Onion Soup.

Popoto Pancakes.

Black Truffle Risotto.

Apkallu Omelette.

Finger Sandwich.

For the dessert options.

Crowned Pie.

Pineapple Ponzecake.

Starlight Cake.

Rolanberry Cheesecake.

Rolanberry Shaved Ice.

Rarity, who was trying as hard as she could to not overindulge herself, was finding her hands drifting over to serve herself more food than she would have cared to admit. She was even going so far as to glance and taking the small windows of opportunity when no one was looking to make a move. The fashionistas eyes would close to give off the expression of pure delight whenever one morsel after another was brought to her mouth. There was even the hand motion where she placed her left hand onto the side of her mouth and giving a small hum of delight that was barely perceivable to the others that were talking.

Gilda was happily munching away at some meat-based dishes, much to the dismay of a few of the others at the table who kept a fair distance in order to take their minds off of the very notion that they were sitting right next to a piece of flesh being consumed at the same table. Applejack was captivated when she found something that was made using mirror apples as an ingredient. It turned out to be a pie with a fake gold crown sitting slanted to one side for decoration and scarfed it down along with a large mug of fresh apple juice.

As for Rainbow. She was sitting right next to Gilda as she did not show any signs of weakness when it came to what her girlfriend was eating. In fact, she would on occasion, steal a bit off of the plate when the others were not looking to try some of what Gilda was munching on. After this was done a few times and Rainbows fork was parried away with the one that was in the Griffin’s hand during one of the stealing attempts.

The Griffin had an annoyed look before she whispered into Rainbow's ear that if she did not stop soon, then she was going to start eating her out at the table while the others watched as payment. Suffice to say, the blue Pegasus found herself too busy with a wing boner to get much of anything else off of Gilda's plate when that was said and a few of the girls laughed at their friend’s expense after clearly hearing the threat.

The desserts were disappearing one after another thanks to Pinkie grabbing them all with her stretching arms that defied the logic of the world. They were also in such a speed that one could actually hear the snapping sound of rubber bands as her arms returned with a new bowl to place in front of herself. All the while, she would speak between gulps on how she was going to get some of these recipes from Gambit when she could start to move again. The statement having to do with how she was already eating more than her own weight and bloating up like a balloon in the same way a certain other earth mare turned into after a baking contest.

What none of them knew at the time was that any food made by Brex had all the nutritional value required but for some strange reason one could eat almost constantly no matter what it is and they would not gain a single pound of weight as a result. This phenomenon was not entirely clear to the Roegadyn, but it was simply contributed to his video game logic and refused to question on it any further when the simple fact was discovered a handful of years ago.

Fluttershy was beginning to come out of her shell and was eating a small amount of food, while also giving some of her portions over to her carbuncle that was sitting on her lap so that its head was peeking just over and laying its chin onto the table. When Luna saw it, she first mistook it for a plushie and reached over to get a good look. But to her surprise, she jerked her hand back with a Yelp as it licked her finger when it got in its range. This earned a light chuckle from Celestia as she covered her mouth to prevent any food from falling out when the surprise occurred.

As for Twilight. She was sitting on the opposite side of Celestia so that the two of them can converse just like they used to when she was younger and in between lessons. Eventually, she spoke low enough to get her mentors attention without bothering the rest just as Celestia was in the middle of eating one of the desserts herself. “It was so nice to spend the day with you.” Celestia replied while giving her student a gentle smile. “Why the pleasure is all mine. Although, I did keep my distance as to not be a distraction.”

The princess took a moment to wipe off some of the food on her lips with a napkin provided. But was not paying enough attention to see the very small embroidery with the letters B M in the corner before she continued. “It is truly reassuring to see how much you have all grown. I would be lying if I was not concerned for your well-being when you sent that letter several days ago and writing that you were going into the forest today.”

She only paused for a moment before she continued. “Mind you, I had no doubt that sir Gambit would have you under his protection. Though, I do wish that I had more opportunities with him than I did. Oh, before I forget. With these happen to be the items that sir Gambit crafted himself?” By then, Celestia’s gaze wandered to Twilight’s clothing until it went down the Unicorns arm and rested on one of the brass rings on the mare’s left hand.

At hearing that, Twilight went into scholar mode and explain the functions as they were done for her by Brex when they were first given over. Celestia smiled at this as she listened intently and nodded ever so often and added her own set of questions here and there. All the while within her mind. Princess Celestia was pondering the following as her mind trailed off whenever Twilight needed a moment to get some more of her notes out to explain her findings and speculation on the outfits and for the ship itself.

“Clearly sir Gambit was avoiding me all day. Did I say too much? Perhaps the idea of me looking into his background was not what he wanted to hear. Would it have gone better if I came over on a day that he was not busy? Also, there's this airship we’re on. It has to be the prototype that they intend to unveil soon. It even looks different from the dream we were using to learn of his exploits in Zebrabwe. We never did find out if it was him or Rory who was the president of T H I S. Perhaps it's Rory? She was the one who was conversing with the crew members.”

“Then there's knowing that he can cook. Oh, by mother's name, he CAN sure cook! If I could just get some of my castle chefs to cook half of this...” By that point, Celestia's inner tone was turning more needy as she continued in her inner monologue. Hmm-Hnn… Now I want him even more! He’s strong, he cares about others and he can bucking cook! He’s just like some of the stories that mother would tell us before bedtime. A time of when the stallions would actively play the roles of heroes.”

Her vision soon drifted to Twilight and she continued with her inner thoughts as they slowly went from her normal voice, to that of clear building frustration. “Oh Twilight… I have missed our time back in the castle when you were a small filly and would ask for my advice so often. The way you would spend your time in the library and in my personal study for our lessons in magic have been the highlight of so many of my days. But perhaps I should have thrown in some lessons on how to… READ THE ROOM.”

As this was going on the solar Princess slowly shifted in her seat as her inner thighs were pressing into one another as her legs were having problems with holding still from underneath the table. With the use of her free hand that was out of view. She reached down and carefully began to pull up the hem of her dress from the front with her fingers. Eventually, the fabric slid up her slender legs and passed her bent knees.

Then with almost practice motions her middle finger slid between her thighs until it came across her practically smoldering core. However, instead of making contact with her underwear, she instead immediately felt the wet, glistening and velvet touch of her pussy. Celestia used almost every ounce of willpower to prevent herself from showing any visible signs that the very act of doing this had sent another wave through her body and a small gush of her juices coated her finger. She then thought, “Lulu may not have let me out of the castle if she knew I went commando! I wonder if he noticed anything.”

During their time while observing the outing. Celestia had made multiple attempts to approach Brex under the pretext of wanting to have a few words alone in regards to one matter or another that would randomly pop in her head. However, each attempt ended before it even began as she was unable to even have a few words alone. Yes, it was both frustrating and disheartening at the same time. But as each failed attempt went on the sun Princess was also feeling a significant spike from her lower region.

What was once disappointment and annoyance. Soon turned into downright frustration and anger. Although on the fourth attempt, Celestia was beginning to feel something else that was taking over. And intense heat along with arousal overtook the other emotions when she caught on to him intentionally avoiding her. But this was not any type of avoiding, oh no. This was plain ignoring altogether. She was the Princess of Equestria. Adored by practically all that lived on this land. Yet here was a male that was outright giving her no second thoughts or any common courtesy of putting her first.

She was practically nothing to him and that very thought eventually brought out another and then another. The very notion of being treated in such an unfamiliar way was almost a breath of fresh air. Being fond over and waited on hand and foot without even having to say a word was so boring, so agonizingly mundane. Then she considered that for once she might have to actually work for some affection. This only spurred more blatant attempts to speak with him but to only come up with the same end result. Each one only building on the hungry desire within her mind and core.

Near the end, when everyone else was distracted and there was a small window of opportunity to be alone with herself. Princess Celestia walked a short distance away so that a number of the trees could be used to break the line of sight with the other girls. When she was sure that no one could either see nor hear, Celestia began to lift her dress and swiftly started to play with herself with her right hand as her body was leaning up against one of the large trees.

At the same time, her left had slipped through the opening of the dress to play with her breast. Her eyes were barely open as they rolled upwards and into her head. There was this twisted smile that was only broken thanks to the way she was biting her lower lip. While heavily breathing through only her nose so that she did not inadvertently release a loud enough moan for the rest to hear from where she was. The solar Princess and one of the two Co-rulers of Equestria was literally masturbating in the middle of the forest and bucking her hips as though she were some wild uncivilized animal.

This had gone on for maybe six or seven minutes by the time Twilight’s voice could be vaguely heard over the muffled moans. Her student had been calling for her and Celestia was literally a second or two away from an orgasm while imagining that she was being pinned against a tree and her fingers were instead those of Brex as he played with her mercilessly. When she realized that her student was only a few paces away and around the tree she was against. Her hands stopped and pulled away as she mentally screamed in her head the following.

“TWILIGHT PLEASE! I ONLY NEEDED A FEW MORE SECONDS! JUST A FEW MORE SECONDS AND I WOULD HAVE BEEN FINISHED!!!” While quickly using her magic to clean up any of the mess. Her hand that was originally playing with her breast was placed onto the tree behind herself. Then as she turned away to intercept her student, that very same hand could be seen clawing into the tree as the nails dug in past the bark and left a deep gouge of four slashes that went on for several inches.

Upon meeting the purple Unicorn. Celestia looked as normal as ever, yet when twilight turned away. The solar princess was giving a death glare that only appeared for the briefest of moments before she caught onto what she was doing and took a deep breath. Even while walking back to the group. The princess was carful with how her tail would sway in an attempt to fan the musk of her arousal before the others came into range.

*Point of view: Brex Mith*
*Location: On the Yuna. The private quarters of Brex*

Brex was fast asleep after leaving everybody else to have their meal and collapsed on the bed almost as soon as he laid down. His form was currently resting onto its right side and letting out a few not so nice grunts of discomfort. Slowly, he rolled over so that he was on his back and facing the ceiling as his left hand was absent-mindedly placing its palm onto his chest.

Another grunt escaped his lips from behind his mask that came off more of him being annoyed than anything else. This was before he uttered the next set of words from within his sleep-like state. “I'm not... A hero... Gah-Hugh!” This was immediately accompanied by a small hiss of pain as his left hand lightly gripped onto the fabric right at the center of his chest.

A few moments later. Brex continued to roll until he was facing the opposite direction from when he first began. His breathing picked up as his entire body began to show small shivers. The next thing that happened, was his hood tilting enough that his face was now half buried into the pillow. From there at the very edge of his still visible eyehole for his mask. Was a single teardrop that began to form on the edge until it left and ran down along the surface and started to soak into the fabric of the pillow.

The next set of words that came out, were broken and barely half formed into syllables. These words if heard by another, would have been able to tell that they were heavily laced with sorrow, regret and self-loathing. “I… I’m… No-… Plea-. Why… Not beleav-.” This would go on until Rory came to his room to wake him up, but as soon as the door started to open, did his condition stabilize to how he would normally appear when asleep.

Upon getting off of his bed. Brex gave a long stretch as he strangely felt as though he was drained, rather than feeling some rejuvenation from his nap. Although, he did notice a small wet spot on his pillow and wondered if he had always had a drooling problem and Rory just never told him about it. But his thoughts were derailed as he remembered who was on board after a second or two passed. His mood began to turn abnormally sour as he developed a heavy scowl from behind his mask after seeing a mental image of Celestia popping into his mind.

What’s more, was that it was not of the current one he had seen that day, but rather the one who looked at him with pure malice in the past. He did notice the way he was beginning to be an immediately shook those thoughts out of his head as he was attempting to get along with the Princess as per Rory’s suggestion. But for a split second he was almost sure that her image upon going away turned into one of those old photo negatives.

Within almost a flash. Brex felt a wave of hostility building before he just out of nowhere, began to blink from behind his mask and forgot everything that occurred within those couple of seconds after looking at his pillow and followed Rory out of his room. Even as the door was closing behind him, he was completely unaware that his left hand was tightly clutching and shaking as if with pure hostility for a second before relaxing.