Dreaming of gentle lavender fragrancesby xombiekillaChaptersChapter one: The Start into Canterlot SocietyChapter two: Meeting the Night PrincessChapter three: The Festival fit for a FoolChapter one: The Start into Canterlot Societyยค The beginning of a very special colt, one that may very well have quite an unforgettable life in store for him shall experience such a life; of hardships, romance, friendships and experiences. This is the story of an extraordinary stallion born in a ordinary world. ยค "Congratulations. It's a boy!" The doctor stated with mirth for the mother who just gave birth to her son. Fresh from the womb, he was speechless as he surveyed the white room, looking around and gathering information for the first few minutes of his new life. Then he looked up towards his mother with abundant curiosity as she looked down to him bundled into her arms. "He's such a cutie, Artemis. He's got your eyes, you know." The mother looking towards her husband as he looked back to her in kind. "He's got your face, I can see you in him a little. That's not an insult. You're beautiful like a rose, dear." The husband heard his wife scoff before she chuckled back to him and he continued. "I know he's gonna make it big in life. Just like his old man and you. So, Julia. What's his name going to be? I know this is very last minute to decide, but what time could be better than right now, right?" "Well, I think that since I love creating and establishing new ideas and you have a knack for artistic skill. It's only appropriate that we combine us two together with this one. How does the name ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ญ sound?" "Artcraft... yeah. That's a very nice name, honey. And you're sure you're alright with this?" "I am. That sounds like a very successful name for our son. Artcraft it is." "Tonight's the first annual Lunar Reunion Festival in the city square, dad. I want to really wow the crowd with my new inventions. Something that will raise profits for our home." Artcraft said to his parents as they looked towards him with bemused smiles. "What about your prototype? What was it called again? The Crescent Cannon?" "Yeah, mom. It's designed to woo the crowd with its ability to preform a light show during the darkest night to blend in seamlessly with the night sky itself. This has been my magnum opus for at least three years now. I can't believe it's finally ready to be presented and during the very year that Princess Luna awakens to her full bloom." Artcraft was excitedly grabbing the scrolls that contained the blueprints for his exact designs. There were at least three in total that he grabbed with him to take to the Canterlot Palace so he could enter into the festival to be a part of their performance for the masses. "Good luck, son! I know you're going to wow them good!" Artemis shouted out as he cheered for his son and was eager for him to succeed. "I know this is a very important night for you, Luna. But as your sister, you should know that I'll be with you every step of the way." Celestia was leaning up against Luna and nuzzling her left cheek to make her giggle. "Thank you very much, Tia. I'm a grown mare now, I do not require coddling. But your concern for me is very flattering." "Coddling? No, I wouldn't use such a strong word. I'd prefer to use the term 'supportive'." "Supportive, my blue butt, Tia. You've been hanging over my shoulder ever since Twilight and her friends had purged Nightmare from my body. But I love thee so for thine support and care. It was what helped me adapt back to our current society." "It's my job as both the co-ruler of Equestria and as your sister to be there for you. So you expecting a corny speech out of me?" "Please, for the love of Faustia, Tia. No." Both sisters then leaned up against each other to share one very heartfelt bout of laughter together. "What? Were you expecting that to actually come out from me?" "Well.. should I answer that, Sister?" "Nope. So then, are you prepared for today?" Celestia then stood up and waited for Luna to also do so. "Prepared is a matter of perspective, Tia. Do I want to attend a festival filled with haughty nobles and selfishly rich perverts? No. Do I know that I must for the sake of keeping the peace? Yes." "If anything does get out of hand, you know that you can always count on me to support you, Lulu. I hereby doubt that anything bad will happen to you on your special day tonight." "But, sister... Blueblood and his stupid cousin will be there. Sliverblood is such a raunchy pervert and an arrogant piece of-" "Luna. Remember to mind your language when you're there." "Yes, Tia. I shall. Just understand that my expectations are going to very low tonight." "I do understand, Lulu. I don't like them around, neither, but the royal family must be present, sadly." Celestia and Luna then left Celestia's Bedchambers to go and eat breakfast, then get prepared for their day. "Hey there. Excuse me. Sorry about that." Artcraft was trying to swim through the crowd as he made his way to the local coffee joint in the town square. He was hugging onto his scrolls as he then made his way to the front counter of the coffee shop and saw a young mare wearing an apron with a nametag on her dress. "Hey there, just here to get a coffee and maybe something to eat." "Why hello there, sweetie. You're kinda cute. Welcome to the Canterlot Coffee Joint. What can I do for you this lovely morning?" She was an honestly thick mare in all the right places. Having a pleasant southern accent, tan coat, nicely groomed, a light-brown mane and tail that looked like a river of sweet flowing maple. Blue eyes and her mane done up in a bun as she got her pen and notepad ready at the counter as she was ready to take Artcraft's order. "No no. That won't be necessary, ma'am. Just a cinnamon roll and a regular coffee, with three creams and two sugars, please." "And so well-mannered, too. Coming right up for you." She winked at him as she then left the counter to walk into the kitchen to get his order made. He was then approached by someone who was nudging him from behind. "I think she likes you, bud." "Well, That's nice, I guess. It's nice to see you, too. So you getting what I'm getting?" "Nah, man. I'm having the strawberry smoothie with a blueberry muffin for my breakfast." "Well, I hope you enjoy it. I love cinnamon rolls." After about fifteen minutes, the waitress came back in. "Here's you order, sweetie. I voided the coffee for you, that'll be five bits for the roll, please." "But.. the whole price is eight bits. I don't want to steal from anybody." "Nonsense, sugar. It won't be nothing for me to worry about. I'm the manager here at this joint. So I can void off whatever I want." "Well.. okay then. Here you go." Artcraft gave her the five bits then grabbed his breakfast and walked over to a table to sit and eat. He turned his cinnamon roll to its other side to see sticky note on the wrapper that read, "call me" and had her phone number on it. He glanced back to her as she gave him a kissy face and winked at him before serving the rest of the customers. "Wow... what an interesting morning this has been." After eating his breakfast, he was on his way out of the coffee joint when he accidentally bumped into someone at the entrance. "Oof, I'm so sorry about that." "Arugh. You better be, you little peasant. Do you have any idea who I am?" "Nope. Never heard of you." "For your information, I am Duke Silverblood of Trottingham. I would ask for your name, but I honestly could care less. Just stay out of my way, if you know what's good for you." "Ok then. I'll be sure to do that. Later." Artcraft walked away as Silverblood visibly scowled at him. "How dare you not give me the due respect that I deserve as nobility. Now I do want to know your name. Who are you?" "Artcraft." "I won't be forgetting that name anytime soon. Know me as your enemy." "Ok then. Sorry to hear that. Have a nice day." If looks could kill, Artcraft would have been dead on the spot. Silverblood was gritting his teeth as he went in to get his breakfast and drink. "C-Can you believe that guy I just bumped into. Honestly, no respect for his superiors." The waitress saw Silverblood and had a small scowl herself as he approached the counter but forced a customer friendly smile on her face. "Howdy there, Silverblood. Welcome to the Canterlot Coffee Joint. So you'll be having the usual espresso cream with two sugars?" "Yes. You know how I enjoy that drink that you make so well." He was eyeballing her hips to see them swinging back and forth as she momentarily glared daggers at him. "Coming right up and you'll also be having your usual chocolate chip muffin too, right?" "Of course I will be." "Alrighty then, that'll be nine bits, please." "Nine bits?! That's highway robbery. I usually only pay eight bits." "Sorry about that, sweetie. Taxes on everything has gone up lately and we've got to stay in business somehow." "Grr.. fine. I can flip the bill for the incompetence of the city, I suppose." He begrudgingly set the extra bit down to cover the whole nine bits for his purchase. "First I bump into this really annoying and disgustingly friendly pony this morning walking in and now I have to pay more than necessary for my breakfast? Unbelievable." "What color was his coat?" "A light tan-yellow. Dark brown mane and tail, green eyes, red vest and these really dorky glasses. He's that guy that's too friendly to everyone, it really gets on my nerves, condescending prick." "Nah. He's just a genuinely nice and sweet guy. Something that you have always had trouble with doing ever since I've known you." "What?! How dare you?! Forget it, I'm running late to an important meeting at the Canterlot Summit. You're lucky that I'm in a hurry, else I would have had this place shut down already." "Have a nice day, Silverblood." That same sweet look on her face was the same face that he had, too. How revolting. These poor ponies were the very definition of impoverished trash. This naturally made his blood boil, something that the waitress had taken more pleasure out of seeing than usual. With an indignant huff, he strode his way out with as much dignity as he could manage which wasn't much all things considered. "What a nice lady she was. Well, I guess if she needs me to do anything, I could always have her on hoof dial. But why give me her number, anyways? Maybe when she's off shift, I can ask her why once I call her later." Artcraft then with a happy stride had made his way to the Canterlot Castle to sign up for the festival. "Mmm mmm. That was sure yummy. And I'm on time, too. Sweet." Artcraft made it up and showed the two guards his identification and proof of residency in Canterlot. "Thanks, guys. I'll make sure to wow everyone." Artcraft was allowed in as he made his way up to the counter to see a maid with a neutral expression. "Yes. Welcome to Canterlot Castle." She said in a bored tone. "Fill out a form here if you're interested in applying for the Lunar Festival tonight." "Oh boy. Yes I am. I can't wait to see her face when I show everyone my invention. This is so exciting for me, you know." Chapter two: Meeting the Night Princess"I'm sure you're excited, just like everyone else is. Just fill out your form and then get in line for the presentation when the time is right at six o' clock tonight." "I sure will. Thank you very much." Artcraft then filled out his form and then skipped down the hall to the early pre-festival show. "That kid's got a lot of positive spunk. I like him. Hope you win, buddy." The maid said then regressing back to her boredom as Artcraft made his way to the Main Castle Atrium. "Look at everybody gathering Luna. They're all here for you today. Isn't that incredible?" "Yes it is, Tia. I'll admit it is. Mayhaps today might not be so bad after all. Thank you for accompanying me, sister." Just then, leaving from the Canterlot Summit was Silverblood as he approached Luna with the cheesiest and worst smile he could muster. Her look soured as soon as she saw him. "Why hello there, Princess. Such a lovely surprise to see you here tonight." "Why yes it is.. a surprise.. to see me at a festival that's all about me and my night. Quite a surprise." Her look was slowly turning more down and irritated the longer she had to be around him. "The winner of this presentation gets to have a medal presented by you to them and a single request of anything of their choosing that's within your power to grant, is that right?" "Y-Yes. That is correct." 'Please, for the love of Faustia, do not be implying what I think you are. You've got a lot of nerve.' "That's right. I see that look in your eyes, you're into me. I can tell." "U-Uhh... I do not know how to respond to this." She leaned to her sister, "Help me, Tia, please." "Maybe leave your request until after the presentation. I do hope you'll win, Silverblood." This seemed to satisfy his expectations for the time being as he just looked toward Luna with a lecherous glare that was practically violating her body as she felt shivers running down her back. "Sure thing. Just you watch me, I'll smoke this performance tonight and then I'll have a kiss from you. The best trophy that a noble like myself could ever be honored with." This made Luna internally wretch on the inside. This foul, disgusting, pompous, piece of filth was seriously going to kiss her?! There's no way in Tartarus that she would want that. "Tia.. please, there must be some other way for me to get out of doing this? Please tell me that there is." Luna turned to her sister after Silverblood left, she felt panicked and scared. "I am sorry, Luna. But unfortunately you must, this is your celebration. You represent the night itself so it is required that you attend this. My deepest apologies, sister. I know you're scared." "I do not want that scumbag winning me. I do not deserve that." "Then I pray for your sake that someone else win this instead. There seems to be an altercation in the works, too. Look, sister." Celestia geatured towards the end of the hallway to see Silverblood arguing with someone as they both went over to check it out. "Grr... not you again! I ran into you at that Coffee Joint earlier today. Why, do you seriously think you got what it takes to win this thing? You've got to be kidding me. And with those scrolls? Forget it, pal. Why don't you hit the road and never come back. Better still, move out of Canterlot. A noble city has no room for such a useless peasant like you." "Well, the flyer did say that anypony could try out for this event, so I'm taking that at face value. It wasn't very specific in its requirements other than having something to present." "Well... you're still going to lose this. You're in a lot of trouble, buddy. Do you have any idea what you're getting yourself into here? Let me enlighten you then. This is a talented nobleman presentation event. Even if it did say that anybody could attend, this is where the big boys rock. Get the hint?" "I sure do and I love the challenge, too." "Why you-" He was moving towards Artcraft as Celestia raised her voice to put Silverblood's advance to an abrupt halt. "Duke Silverblood of Trottingham! You will not raise any harm to anypony in here, for any reason, whatsoever. Do I make myself clear?" He shriveled up and backed off like an obedient puppy being scolded by its mother. "Y-Yes, ma'am. Abundantly clear." "Good. I'm glad we have an understanding here. Do not let me see you trying anything like that ever again. Or so help me, I'll see to it personally that you'll be stripped of your title as a Duke. It'll be by legal and royal decree as the ruler of Equestria that can override any decision if necessary. So do not push me." "B-But.. y-you cannot do that to me. It's in my blood to be a noble. It's in my heritage as a long lasting family of nobles that have spanned for longer than six-hundred years." "Oh yes I can, Silverblood. You may be a noble by blood, but you're far from immune from the wrath of royalty, I can assure you that." He whimpered which only added to Luna's distaste of him. "Y-Yes. I understand completely." "Good. Be sure to present your best tonight. And remember, you're on thin ice right now." As he walked off, he glared hatefully towards Artcraft before making his way off for the festivities. Her focus was then set onto Artcraft himself, "and who're you, my little pony?" "I'm Artcraft, princess. Wow. Meeting the royal sisters themselves. This is not something that you experience every day, that's for sure." Luna immediately had her gaze fixed onto Artcraft. For whatever reason, she liked him. His kindness, calm and cheerful demeanor, his shyness. Best of all, his humility as a pony. She found all of these traits to be most desirable. "I'm happy to present my best for this event tonight." "I hope you win instead of Silverblood..." Luna let that spill before correcting herself and straightening her posture. "Gee.. thanks, princess. I hope to not let you down then. I kinda always loved the night as it's peaceful, so I designed something that would represent that best. It'll have to be done at night in order to truly enjoy it." "Oh, I shall enjoy your work, indeed, fair Artcraft." "Luna believes that you got this and so do I. There's something... special about you. I have a good feeling about you in particular." "I'm glad. Woo yeah! I'm actually here for this. After three years of mulling over failure after failure. I've made it this far and I'm so happy." "Then we shall see you tonight." Luna said with a legitimate smile on her face as Artcraft bowed in respect and made his way to build his machine. "Grr... how dare that little twerp. He embarrassed me in front of both royal sisters and my beloved Luna. I will find a way to triumph as a strong and successful noble of the Blood Family Line. I will not be made a fool out of on stage. But how to beat him?" Silverblood was in deep contemplation, "I got it. I'll wait until he's finished making that thing and then I'll steal his scrolls detailing his schematics and then patent them as my own. Genius move, Silverblood. He'll never see it coming." Silverblood was patient enough to wait things out until his associate arrived to do the patenting of Artcraft's invention. "You wanted to see me, Silverblood?' "Ah yes, Script Change, My best associate. I'm glad to see you here and on time, too." "What is it you need? You're usually this happy when you've got a favor to ask me." "I do have a favor. Now it might sound a little... morally compromising. But I assure you that it's for the greater good of the noble families that I succeed." "Name your problem." "I need you to patent something for me, legally. Yes, it belongs to someone else. But you can do this, right?" "Woah now, Silverblood. This is a very harsh and low blow, you know. You sound desperate to win to me." "Can you do this or not?" "I can, but that depends. Is his work already patented? If it is then there's nothing I could do for you. If it's not, then you're in luck." "Is there a way for you to validate that? To see if it is? I hope it's not." "Let me take a look real quick then." He set to work on his laptop to browse through the patented claims of the all contenders of this event to narrow things down. To Silverblood's fortune, it wasn't. "I can see that it isn't. You're lucky. Just a minute.. and.. done. The name popped up and everything. All the information is on it, too. So it's called the Crescent Cannon, huh? Impressive." Script whistled in astonishment at its designs. "I certainly wouldn't mind having that at my home." "You did it?! Incredible! I'll see to it that your pay is extra for this, Script. Your services to the Blood Family will not be forgotten." "When this is done, I get that cannon as my bonus." "Consider it done. I just want that twerp to be canceled out of this event. That's what he gets for crossing me and by extension, the Blood Family Line." "You're a cruel and calculating pony, you know that, right?" "The ends justify the means, Script. I'll be willing to do whatever it takes for nobility to win, no matter what." "Well, at the end, we'll see how all this plays out. I did my part. After this, I wash my hands of any involvement, understand?" "But of course, my friend. Leave everything else to me. Your pay shall be processed after this event. I'll see to it personally." "I trust you fully and unequivocally, Silverblood. Pleasure doing business with you." "The pleasure's all mine." Script Change then got up and left after his work was done. "Sorry, kid. I was only just doing my job, it's nothing personal." he lamented to himself briefly before exiting. Before the official event, Artcraft was finished with his invention as it was functioning thoroughly and completely. "Everything is working out, nicely. Awesome. It's fully tested and ready for its presentation." He was then approached by Silverblood. "Hey there, Artcraft. I know we got off on the wrong foot before and I wanted to apologize to you. It was wrong of me to act the way I did as a noble. I just wanted to wish you luck tonight at the event as an equal." "Sure thing. Thanks, man. I really appreciate it." Then four guards came in and grabbed the cannon by its wheels and moved it out of the room without saying a word. Silverblood had a very smug and victorious look on his face. "W-What's going on here. Where are they going with my invention?" "I'm sorry, but by legal decree, this is my invention now so it belongs to me." "W-What?! Why would you stoop this low? Pretty unbecoming for a noble, don't you think? I was always told that nobles were above such foul deeds. I can see that this isn't the truth with you." "Consider this as a good hard lesson, Artcraft. In order to really succeed, you must be willing to do whatever it takes to go far in the big leagues. I'm actually doing you a favor by opening up your eyes as far as I'm concerned. You should be grateful that I did this. Innocence doesn't get you very far in this city." "You big stinker. You knew you were no match for me, so you cheated to win instead. That's pathetic." Chapter three: The Festival fit for a Fool"Good luck at the presentation, Artcraft." Silverblood laughed heartily as he left Artcraft's guest room and went to attend the festival. "I can't believe that guy. I have no choice but to enter. And I have nothing to provide them. I'm so screwed." Artcraft then resigned in defeat, knowing he'd have to go in regardless. "If he tries to use it, he has no idea how it even works. Does Silverblood have any idea what he just did? Using it wrong can be dangerous." Artcraft gulped at the possibility of a disaster that could potentially hurt many ponies. "My machine wasn't designed to hurt anybody. It was meant to wow them. This is the very opposite of what it was intended to do. Three years of hard work stolen from me." He braced himself and went on to the stage. Inevitable dread welled up in him, knowing that he had reached the point of no return. "Fillies and Gentlecolts, from all reaches of Equestria. Thank you for attending this festival in honor of my dearest sister, Luna." Celestia greeted the audience as they all cheered for Luna, thus making her blush as she wasn't used to such adoration. But she was thankful for it, regardless. "For our first contestant, Silverblood, and his presentation on... The Crescent Cannon? Hmm... I've never seen Silverblood dabble into engineering before. That's strange. Well, let's see what he's got then, everypony." Silverblood wheeled in the cannon as he waved to the crowd. "Thank you, everypony. Thank you for having me here tonight. And thank you, princess." "Oh, brother. Give me a break." Luna looked disgusted as she saw the white-chromed machine, which made her think about that machine Artcraft said he would make. "Tia. Do you recall our meeting with Artcaft earlier today?" "I do indeed; why?" "Didn't he say that he would make an invention that would only work at nighttime? Correct me if I'm wrong." Celestia gasped in shock "He did not?!" Surprised at Silverblood's sheer audacity. "I do believe that he did, Tia." "That slimy cheat. That was the invention that Artcraft designed. I specifically warned him never to bring any harm in any capacity to anypony. And what did he do? I must put a stop to this." "Sister. Wait a minute. Neither he nor we know how that machine operates. But Artcraft does." "You're right, Luna. One bad move and anything could happen." Celestia now looked a bit scared. Not for herself, but for the safety of her subjects, "How could he allow his pride to cloud him like this? He could not leave well enough alone when he still had the chance." "I, Duke Silverblood of Trottingham, have spent three years laboring away on this magnificent engineering marvel. I call it The Crescent Cannon. How does it work? You start by pushing this button right here." "Wait! Stop! Do not push that button! You don't want to do that." Artcraft shouted at the top of his lungs as everyone gasped in surprise. "Like he knows how this machine operates, am I right, everyone?" "If you're the owner, then operating that machine should be no problem for you, right? So that you know, that button will begin the magic collecting process. It's designed to collect magic and natural light particles to release beautiful colors on the night sky." He then pointed toward the vents on the side. "Those vents at the bottom were meant to keep the machine cool, but too much magic will cause it to overheat." "Okay, mister know-it-all, maybe I will push this button. To prove to you guys that he's wrong and I'm right." As Silverblood pushed the charge button, the machine whirred to life like a mini turbine engine. As it spun, it began to collect magic. "As you can see, guys. Nothing bad is happening. The magic gathers here. And then it'll create fireworks. Unlike what he said, it is not light particles." The machine began to lock up as the vents closed because he didn't press the vent button after pressing the charge button. "No! That's too much magic all at once. Quick! Press that button with the vent symbol to open the vents up." "Quiet, you. Don't mind him; he's jealous that he didn't create anything this good." "Silverblood! I rarely ever resort to name-calling. But you're an absolute imbecile. Do you have any idea what you've done?!" "Oh? What did I do then? Tell us. Enlighten the crowd for me." "That much magic will cause it to overheat and be unable to release the magic trapped inside it. You created a negatively-charged magical nuke that'll blow all Canterlot here to Kingdom Come." "W-What?!" "Yes. He patented my designs everypony. Of course, I would know how it works; I created it. I would also know what would happen if it got out of hand, and it clearly did." Everyone began to panic as Artcraft jumped out towards the stage and up to the machine and used his magic signature to try to lift the lock on it. "Damn. No dice. I'll have to run the emergency shutdown protocol. Celestia! Get everyone out as fast as possible if this doesn't work out. If this thing goes off, at least it won't get anybody else vaporized." "But Artcraft! What about you?" Celestia shouted back to him. "Don't worry about me. If I go, at least I had the opportunity to meet you and your sister. I'm content with that, if nothing else. Thank you for that opportunity, Princesses. Silverblood. Get out of here, now!" "Y-You don't have to tell me twice. E-Euuaughhh!" To everyone else's disgust, he ran away as fast as possible, knocking away anypony that got in his way. "Artcraft... I hope I was right about you." Celestia then ushered everyone to safety as Artcraft worked desperately to turn it off safely. "Come on... ugh. I don't have time for this. I'll have to pry open it's rear plating." Artcraft then pried open the plating with his magic to see a series of colored wires. "Holy... even the wires are beginning to melt. Not good." Artcraft then said a silent prayer as he severed the red and yellow colored wires as the machine sounded unstable. "C-Crap.. okay, wrong wires. Come on, baby. Hang in there. I'll get you to shut off." Sweat was racing down his forehead, his palms were sweaty, and his heart beat faster, pounding as each second ticked. Everything was on the line now. He severed the blue and purple wires as the machine began to sound even worse. "O-Oh gees... I-I guess this is it. I-It's the end... This is my last gamble here. Green or black. If I ever make it out of this tonight. I want to ask Celestia if she can strangle Silverblood for me, assuming that I live and can even turn this off." Green or black? The very question that everything hinged upon. Time was running out and fast. With a gulp, he then recalled that his favorite color was black. But that was a risky gambit; relying on a favorite color of all things?! "Note to self: Make sure to be more organized with your designs, assuming there will be the next time." Artcraft went for it, holding onto hope as much as he could. "I-I choose the black wire." "Everypony! Single file line, please. Remain calm. All will be well, my little ponies. My sister and I shall protect you all." Celestia did her best to calm them as the crowd made it out to the exterior of the city limits. "Come on, Artcraft. Do not give up like this." "Sister. You believe that he shall manage this?" "Yes, Luna. I do. I know he's got this." "I do hope so. I believe that the winner is obvious after this." Suddenly... a bright and powerful beacon of magical energy shot out upwards. It showed like an aurora borealis light show that sparkled a beautiful cascade of brilliant colors that aligned with the night sky perfectly for everyone to see. Artcraft then took a huge breath of relief as he leaned against the machine. "Oh, my Faustia above... t-that was way too close for my comfort." "Yes! I knew he could do it. Good on you, Artcraft. You did well." Celestia said in relief as Luna and the rest of the ponies were all cheering, all except for Silverblood, who chose to hide by himself into a concealed hay bail. Once the applause had settled down, the weasel then tried to escape. "Just you wait, Smart Ass! And just where do you think you are heading off to?" Luna then used her magic to lift Silverblood towards her with a severe deathly glare adorning her face. "So.. um... I'm guessing it would be too late to ask for that kiss from you, Luna?" "Duke Silverblood of Trottingham! As Princess of the Night and as co-ruler of Equestria, it is well within my jurisdiction as a princess to place you under arrest for your crimes against Equestria. And by royal decree, so long as my sister hath no objections, you shall henceforth be stripped of thine title of nobility, effective Immediately." The last two words were spoken with the Canterlot Royal Voice. Silverblood's life was falling apart; he looked towards Celestia for comfort or support as the night guards were apprehending him. "Please, Celestia. I'm sorry for doing this. I never meant to put all of Equestria in danger. All I thought I was doing was getting back at Artcraft. You have to believe me." But she just shook her head at him in disappointment. "Silverblood. You disappoint me. Your sentence has been carried out. I've warned you of what would happen if you brought any harm at all to my ponies ever again. Goodbye, Silverblood. May we never have any contact with you ever again. After you have served your sentence and paid your debt to society, you shall be exiled from Canterlot, never to return here permanently. I, Princess Celestia of Equestria, have spoken!" In silent horror, Silverblood's face had paled a ghostly sheet white as he was arrested and tossed into the back of their royal carriage, which was heavily guarded so he could not escape. "No, please. I swear that I'll turn things around. I swear it! By the honor of my family's bloodline. I will do better. Noooo!!!" He shouted as his panicked voice carried over the fields towards Canterlot itself. "Good riddance to bad rubbish, I say, Tia." As everyone made their way back into Canterlot and towards the stage, Artcraft was sleeping beside a broken cannon after its light show was finished, completely exhausted. Celestia chuckled at the sight as she then called her guards to move him to a particular guest room for him to rest up in. "Once he wakes up, we'll celebrate his bravery." Everyone made their agreement. Even the other would-be contestants had accepted that Artcraft's selfless bravery was far more than anything they had planned to show and just let it be. "I knew I had a good feeling about him, Luna. I can't quite explain it, but Artcraft truly has a heart of gold. I am most proud of him." "Agreed, Tia. And he did all of this for Canterlot and me. Without even thinking twice. Sister." Luna looked at Celestia to speak. "Yes, Luna?" "That stallion is mine!" "Well. You're welcome to have him then, Luna. So, you'll present his award to him and then grant him any one desire he wishes?" "Yes, sister. Yes, I will. Artcraft truly is a one-of-a-kind pony."
Chapter one: The Start into Canterlot Societyยค The beginning of a very special colt, one that may very well have quite an unforgettable life in store for him shall experience such a life; of hardships, romance, friendships and experiences. This is the story of an extraordinary stallion born in a ordinary world. ยค "Congratulations. It's a boy!" The doctor stated with mirth for the mother who just gave birth to her son. Fresh from the womb, he was speechless as he surveyed the white room, looking around and gathering information for the first few minutes of his new life. Then he looked up towards his mother with abundant curiosity as she looked down to him bundled into her arms. "He's such a cutie, Artemis. He's got your eyes, you know." The mother looking towards her husband as he looked back to her in kind. "He's got your face, I can see you in him a little. That's not an insult. You're beautiful like a rose, dear." The husband heard his wife scoff before she chuckled back to him and he continued. "I know he's gonna make it big in life. Just like his old man and you. So, Julia. What's his name going to be? I know this is very last minute to decide, but what time could be better than right now, right?" "Well, I think that since I love creating and establishing new ideas and you have a knack for artistic skill. It's only appropriate that we combine us two together with this one. How does the name ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ญ sound?" "Artcraft... yeah. That's a very nice name, honey. And you're sure you're alright with this?" "I am. That sounds like a very successful name for our son. Artcraft it is." "Tonight's the first annual Lunar Reunion Festival in the city square, dad. I want to really wow the crowd with my new inventions. Something that will raise profits for our home." Artcraft said to his parents as they looked towards him with bemused smiles. "What about your prototype? What was it called again? The Crescent Cannon?" "Yeah, mom. It's designed to woo the crowd with its ability to preform a light show during the darkest night to blend in seamlessly with the night sky itself. This has been my magnum opus for at least three years now. I can't believe it's finally ready to be presented and during the very year that Princess Luna awakens to her full bloom." Artcraft was excitedly grabbing the scrolls that contained the blueprints for his exact designs. There were at least three in total that he grabbed with him to take to the Canterlot Palace so he could enter into the festival to be a part of their performance for the masses. "Good luck, son! I know you're going to wow them good!" Artemis shouted out as he cheered for his son and was eager for him to succeed. "I know this is a very important night for you, Luna. But as your sister, you should know that I'll be with you every step of the way." Celestia was leaning up against Luna and nuzzling her left cheek to make her giggle. "Thank you very much, Tia. I'm a grown mare now, I do not require coddling. But your concern for me is very flattering." "Coddling? No, I wouldn't use such a strong word. I'd prefer to use the term 'supportive'." "Supportive, my blue butt, Tia. You've been hanging over my shoulder ever since Twilight and her friends had purged Nightmare from my body. But I love thee so for thine support and care. It was what helped me adapt back to our current society." "It's my job as both the co-ruler of Equestria and as your sister to be there for you. So you expecting a corny speech out of me?" "Please, for the love of Faustia, Tia. No." Both sisters then leaned up against each other to share one very heartfelt bout of laughter together. "What? Were you expecting that to actually come out from me?" "Well.. should I answer that, Sister?" "Nope. So then, are you prepared for today?" Celestia then stood up and waited for Luna to also do so. "Prepared is a matter of perspective, Tia. Do I want to attend a festival filled with haughty nobles and selfishly rich perverts? No. Do I know that I must for the sake of keeping the peace? Yes." "If anything does get out of hand, you know that you can always count on me to support you, Lulu. I hereby doubt that anything bad will happen to you on your special day tonight." "But, sister... Blueblood and his stupid cousin will be there. Sliverblood is such a raunchy pervert and an arrogant piece of-" "Luna. Remember to mind your language when you're there." "Yes, Tia. I shall. Just understand that my expectations are going to very low tonight." "I do understand, Lulu. I don't like them around, neither, but the royal family must be present, sadly." Celestia and Luna then left Celestia's Bedchambers to go and eat breakfast, then get prepared for their day. "Hey there. Excuse me. Sorry about that." Artcraft was trying to swim through the crowd as he made his way to the local coffee joint in the town square. He was hugging onto his scrolls as he then made his way to the front counter of the coffee shop and saw a young mare wearing an apron with a nametag on her dress. "Hey there, just here to get a coffee and maybe something to eat." "Why hello there, sweetie. You're kinda cute. Welcome to the Canterlot Coffee Joint. What can I do for you this lovely morning?" She was an honestly thick mare in all the right places. Having a pleasant southern accent, tan coat, nicely groomed, a light-brown mane and tail that looked like a river of sweet flowing maple. Blue eyes and her mane done up in a bun as she got her pen and notepad ready at the counter as she was ready to take Artcraft's order. "No no. That won't be necessary, ma'am. Just a cinnamon roll and a regular coffee, with three creams and two sugars, please." "And so well-mannered, too. Coming right up for you." She winked at him as she then left the counter to walk into the kitchen to get his order made. He was then approached by someone who was nudging him from behind. "I think she likes you, bud." "Well, That's nice, I guess. It's nice to see you, too. So you getting what I'm getting?" "Nah, man. I'm having the strawberry smoothie with a blueberry muffin for my breakfast." "Well, I hope you enjoy it. I love cinnamon rolls." After about fifteen minutes, the waitress came back in. "Here's you order, sweetie. I voided the coffee for you, that'll be five bits for the roll, please." "But.. the whole price is eight bits. I don't want to steal from anybody." "Nonsense, sugar. It won't be nothing for me to worry about. I'm the manager here at this joint. So I can void off whatever I want." "Well.. okay then. Here you go." Artcraft gave her the five bits then grabbed his breakfast and walked over to a table to sit and eat. He turned his cinnamon roll to its other side to see sticky note on the wrapper that read, "call me" and had her phone number on it. He glanced back to her as she gave him a kissy face and winked at him before serving the rest of the customers. "Wow... what an interesting morning this has been." After eating his breakfast, he was on his way out of the coffee joint when he accidentally bumped into someone at the entrance. "Oof, I'm so sorry about that." "Arugh. You better be, you little peasant. Do you have any idea who I am?" "Nope. Never heard of you." "For your information, I am Duke Silverblood of Trottingham. I would ask for your name, but I honestly could care less. Just stay out of my way, if you know what's good for you." "Ok then. I'll be sure to do that. Later." Artcraft walked away as Silverblood visibly scowled at him. "How dare you not give me the due respect that I deserve as nobility. Now I do want to know your name. Who are you?" "Artcraft." "I won't be forgetting that name anytime soon. Know me as your enemy." "Ok then. Sorry to hear that. Have a nice day." If looks could kill, Artcraft would have been dead on the spot. Silverblood was gritting his teeth as he went in to get his breakfast and drink. "C-Can you believe that guy I just bumped into. Honestly, no respect for his superiors." The waitress saw Silverblood and had a small scowl herself as he approached the counter but forced a customer friendly smile on her face. "Howdy there, Silverblood. Welcome to the Canterlot Coffee Joint. So you'll be having the usual espresso cream with two sugars?" "Yes. You know how I enjoy that drink that you make so well." He was eyeballing her hips to see them swinging back and forth as she momentarily glared daggers at him. "Coming right up and you'll also be having your usual chocolate chip muffin too, right?" "Of course I will be." "Alrighty then, that'll be nine bits, please." "Nine bits?! That's highway robbery. I usually only pay eight bits." "Sorry about that, sweetie. Taxes on everything has gone up lately and we've got to stay in business somehow." "Grr.. fine. I can flip the bill for the incompetence of the city, I suppose." He begrudgingly set the extra bit down to cover the whole nine bits for his purchase. "First I bump into this really annoying and disgustingly friendly pony this morning walking in and now I have to pay more than necessary for my breakfast? Unbelievable." "What color was his coat?" "A light tan-yellow. Dark brown mane and tail, green eyes, red vest and these really dorky glasses. He's that guy that's too friendly to everyone, it really gets on my nerves, condescending prick." "Nah. He's just a genuinely nice and sweet guy. Something that you have always had trouble with doing ever since I've known you." "What?! How dare you?! Forget it, I'm running late to an important meeting at the Canterlot Summit. You're lucky that I'm in a hurry, else I would have had this place shut down already." "Have a nice day, Silverblood." That same sweet look on her face was the same face that he had, too. How revolting. These poor ponies were the very definition of impoverished trash. This naturally made his blood boil, something that the waitress had taken more pleasure out of seeing than usual. With an indignant huff, he strode his way out with as much dignity as he could manage which wasn't much all things considered. "What a nice lady she was. Well, I guess if she needs me to do anything, I could always have her on hoof dial. But why give me her number, anyways? Maybe when she's off shift, I can ask her why once I call her later." Artcraft then with a happy stride had made his way to the Canterlot Castle to sign up for the festival. "Mmm mmm. That was sure yummy. And I'm on time, too. Sweet." Artcraft made it up and showed the two guards his identification and proof of residency in Canterlot. "Thanks, guys. I'll make sure to wow everyone." Artcraft was allowed in as he made his way up to the counter to see a maid with a neutral expression. "Yes. Welcome to Canterlot Castle." She said in a bored tone. "Fill out a form here if you're interested in applying for the Lunar Festival tonight." "Oh boy. Yes I am. I can't wait to see her face when I show everyone my invention. This is so exciting for me, you know."
Chapter two: Meeting the Night Princess"I'm sure you're excited, just like everyone else is. Just fill out your form and then get in line for the presentation when the time is right at six o' clock tonight." "I sure will. Thank you very much." Artcraft then filled out his form and then skipped down the hall to the early pre-festival show. "That kid's got a lot of positive spunk. I like him. Hope you win, buddy." The maid said then regressing back to her boredom as Artcraft made his way to the Main Castle Atrium. "Look at everybody gathering Luna. They're all here for you today. Isn't that incredible?" "Yes it is, Tia. I'll admit it is. Mayhaps today might not be so bad after all. Thank you for accompanying me, sister." Just then, leaving from the Canterlot Summit was Silverblood as he approached Luna with the cheesiest and worst smile he could muster. Her look soured as soon as she saw him. "Why hello there, Princess. Such a lovely surprise to see you here tonight." "Why yes it is.. a surprise.. to see me at a festival that's all about me and my night. Quite a surprise." Her look was slowly turning more down and irritated the longer she had to be around him. "The winner of this presentation gets to have a medal presented by you to them and a single request of anything of their choosing that's within your power to grant, is that right?" "Y-Yes. That is correct." 'Please, for the love of Faustia, do not be implying what I think you are. You've got a lot of nerve.' "That's right. I see that look in your eyes, you're into me. I can tell." "U-Uhh... I do not know how to respond to this." She leaned to her sister, "Help me, Tia, please." "Maybe leave your request until after the presentation. I do hope you'll win, Silverblood." This seemed to satisfy his expectations for the time being as he just looked toward Luna with a lecherous glare that was practically violating her body as she felt shivers running down her back. "Sure thing. Just you watch me, I'll smoke this performance tonight and then I'll have a kiss from you. The best trophy that a noble like myself could ever be honored with." This made Luna internally wretch on the inside. This foul, disgusting, pompous, piece of filth was seriously going to kiss her?! There's no way in Tartarus that she would want that. "Tia.. please, there must be some other way for me to get out of doing this? Please tell me that there is." Luna turned to her sister after Silverblood left, she felt panicked and scared. "I am sorry, Luna. But unfortunately you must, this is your celebration. You represent the night itself so it is required that you attend this. My deepest apologies, sister. I know you're scared." "I do not want that scumbag winning me. I do not deserve that." "Then I pray for your sake that someone else win this instead. There seems to be an altercation in the works, too. Look, sister." Celestia geatured towards the end of the hallway to see Silverblood arguing with someone as they both went over to check it out. "Grr... not you again! I ran into you at that Coffee Joint earlier today. Why, do you seriously think you got what it takes to win this thing? You've got to be kidding me. And with those scrolls? Forget it, pal. Why don't you hit the road and never come back. Better still, move out of Canterlot. A noble city has no room for such a useless peasant like you." "Well, the flyer did say that anypony could try out for this event, so I'm taking that at face value. It wasn't very specific in its requirements other than having something to present." "Well... you're still going to lose this. You're in a lot of trouble, buddy. Do you have any idea what you're getting yourself into here? Let me enlighten you then. This is a talented nobleman presentation event. Even if it did say that anybody could attend, this is where the big boys rock. Get the hint?" "I sure do and I love the challenge, too." "Why you-" He was moving towards Artcraft as Celestia raised her voice to put Silverblood's advance to an abrupt halt. "Duke Silverblood of Trottingham! You will not raise any harm to anypony in here, for any reason, whatsoever. Do I make myself clear?" He shriveled up and backed off like an obedient puppy being scolded by its mother. "Y-Yes, ma'am. Abundantly clear." "Good. I'm glad we have an understanding here. Do not let me see you trying anything like that ever again. Or so help me, I'll see to it personally that you'll be stripped of your title as a Duke. It'll be by legal and royal decree as the ruler of Equestria that can override any decision if necessary. So do not push me." "B-But.. y-you cannot do that to me. It's in my blood to be a noble. It's in my heritage as a long lasting family of nobles that have spanned for longer than six-hundred years." "Oh yes I can, Silverblood. You may be a noble by blood, but you're far from immune from the wrath of royalty, I can assure you that." He whimpered which only added to Luna's distaste of him. "Y-Yes. I understand completely." "Good. Be sure to present your best tonight. And remember, you're on thin ice right now." As he walked off, he glared hatefully towards Artcraft before making his way off for the festivities. Her focus was then set onto Artcraft himself, "and who're you, my little pony?" "I'm Artcraft, princess. Wow. Meeting the royal sisters themselves. This is not something that you experience every day, that's for sure." Luna immediately had her gaze fixed onto Artcraft. For whatever reason, she liked him. His kindness, calm and cheerful demeanor, his shyness. Best of all, his humility as a pony. She found all of these traits to be most desirable. "I'm happy to present my best for this event tonight." "I hope you win instead of Silverblood..." Luna let that spill before correcting herself and straightening her posture. "Gee.. thanks, princess. I hope to not let you down then. I kinda always loved the night as it's peaceful, so I designed something that would represent that best. It'll have to be done at night in order to truly enjoy it." "Oh, I shall enjoy your work, indeed, fair Artcraft." "Luna believes that you got this and so do I. There's something... special about you. I have a good feeling about you in particular." "I'm glad. Woo yeah! I'm actually here for this. After three years of mulling over failure after failure. I've made it this far and I'm so happy." "Then we shall see you tonight." Luna said with a legitimate smile on her face as Artcraft bowed in respect and made his way to build his machine. "Grr... how dare that little twerp. He embarrassed me in front of both royal sisters and my beloved Luna. I will find a way to triumph as a strong and successful noble of the Blood Family Line. I will not be made a fool out of on stage. But how to beat him?" Silverblood was in deep contemplation, "I got it. I'll wait until he's finished making that thing and then I'll steal his scrolls detailing his schematics and then patent them as my own. Genius move, Silverblood. He'll never see it coming." Silverblood was patient enough to wait things out until his associate arrived to do the patenting of Artcraft's invention. "You wanted to see me, Silverblood?' "Ah yes, Script Change, My best associate. I'm glad to see you here and on time, too." "What is it you need? You're usually this happy when you've got a favor to ask me." "I do have a favor. Now it might sound a little... morally compromising. But I assure you that it's for the greater good of the noble families that I succeed." "Name your problem." "I need you to patent something for me, legally. Yes, it belongs to someone else. But you can do this, right?" "Woah now, Silverblood. This is a very harsh and low blow, you know. You sound desperate to win to me." "Can you do this or not?" "I can, but that depends. Is his work already patented? If it is then there's nothing I could do for you. If it's not, then you're in luck." "Is there a way for you to validate that? To see if it is? I hope it's not." "Let me take a look real quick then." He set to work on his laptop to browse through the patented claims of the all contenders of this event to narrow things down. To Silverblood's fortune, it wasn't. "I can see that it isn't. You're lucky. Just a minute.. and.. done. The name popped up and everything. All the information is on it, too. So it's called the Crescent Cannon, huh? Impressive." Script whistled in astonishment at its designs. "I certainly wouldn't mind having that at my home." "You did it?! Incredible! I'll see to it that your pay is extra for this, Script. Your services to the Blood Family will not be forgotten." "When this is done, I get that cannon as my bonus." "Consider it done. I just want that twerp to be canceled out of this event. That's what he gets for crossing me and by extension, the Blood Family Line." "You're a cruel and calculating pony, you know that, right?" "The ends justify the means, Script. I'll be willing to do whatever it takes for nobility to win, no matter what." "Well, at the end, we'll see how all this plays out. I did my part. After this, I wash my hands of any involvement, understand?" "But of course, my friend. Leave everything else to me. Your pay shall be processed after this event. I'll see to it personally." "I trust you fully and unequivocally, Silverblood. Pleasure doing business with you." "The pleasure's all mine." Script Change then got up and left after his work was done. "Sorry, kid. I was only just doing my job, it's nothing personal." he lamented to himself briefly before exiting. Before the official event, Artcraft was finished with his invention as it was functioning thoroughly and completely. "Everything is working out, nicely. Awesome. It's fully tested and ready for its presentation." He was then approached by Silverblood. "Hey there, Artcraft. I know we got off on the wrong foot before and I wanted to apologize to you. It was wrong of me to act the way I did as a noble. I just wanted to wish you luck tonight at the event as an equal." "Sure thing. Thanks, man. I really appreciate it." Then four guards came in and grabbed the cannon by its wheels and moved it out of the room without saying a word. Silverblood had a very smug and victorious look on his face. "W-What's going on here. Where are they going with my invention?" "I'm sorry, but by legal decree, this is my invention now so it belongs to me." "W-What?! Why would you stoop this low? Pretty unbecoming for a noble, don't you think? I was always told that nobles were above such foul deeds. I can see that this isn't the truth with you." "Consider this as a good hard lesson, Artcraft. In order to really succeed, you must be willing to do whatever it takes to go far in the big leagues. I'm actually doing you a favor by opening up your eyes as far as I'm concerned. You should be grateful that I did this. Innocence doesn't get you very far in this city." "You big stinker. You knew you were no match for me, so you cheated to win instead. That's pathetic."
Chapter three: The Festival fit for a Fool"Good luck at the presentation, Artcraft." Silverblood laughed heartily as he left Artcraft's guest room and went to attend the festival. "I can't believe that guy. I have no choice but to enter. And I have nothing to provide them. I'm so screwed." Artcraft then resigned in defeat, knowing he'd have to go in regardless. "If he tries to use it, he has no idea how it even works. Does Silverblood have any idea what he just did? Using it wrong can be dangerous." Artcraft gulped at the possibility of a disaster that could potentially hurt many ponies. "My machine wasn't designed to hurt anybody. It was meant to wow them. This is the very opposite of what it was intended to do. Three years of hard work stolen from me." He braced himself and went on to the stage. Inevitable dread welled up in him, knowing that he had reached the point of no return. "Fillies and Gentlecolts, from all reaches of Equestria. Thank you for attending this festival in honor of my dearest sister, Luna." Celestia greeted the audience as they all cheered for Luna, thus making her blush as she wasn't used to such adoration. But she was thankful for it, regardless. "For our first contestant, Silverblood, and his presentation on... The Crescent Cannon? Hmm... I've never seen Silverblood dabble into engineering before. That's strange. Well, let's see what he's got then, everypony." Silverblood wheeled in the cannon as he waved to the crowd. "Thank you, everypony. Thank you for having me here tonight. And thank you, princess." "Oh, brother. Give me a break." Luna looked disgusted as she saw the white-chromed machine, which made her think about that machine Artcraft said he would make. "Tia. Do you recall our meeting with Artcaft earlier today?" "I do indeed; why?" "Didn't he say that he would make an invention that would only work at nighttime? Correct me if I'm wrong." Celestia gasped in shock "He did not?!" Surprised at Silverblood's sheer audacity. "I do believe that he did, Tia." "That slimy cheat. That was the invention that Artcraft designed. I specifically warned him never to bring any harm in any capacity to anypony. And what did he do? I must put a stop to this." "Sister. Wait a minute. Neither he nor we know how that machine operates. But Artcraft does." "You're right, Luna. One bad move and anything could happen." Celestia now looked a bit scared. Not for herself, but for the safety of her subjects, "How could he allow his pride to cloud him like this? He could not leave well enough alone when he still had the chance." "I, Duke Silverblood of Trottingham, have spent three years laboring away on this magnificent engineering marvel. I call it The Crescent Cannon. How does it work? You start by pushing this button right here." "Wait! Stop! Do not push that button! You don't want to do that." Artcraft shouted at the top of his lungs as everyone gasped in surprise. "Like he knows how this machine operates, am I right, everyone?" "If you're the owner, then operating that machine should be no problem for you, right? So that you know, that button will begin the magic collecting process. It's designed to collect magic and natural light particles to release beautiful colors on the night sky." He then pointed toward the vents on the side. "Those vents at the bottom were meant to keep the machine cool, but too much magic will cause it to overheat." "Okay, mister know-it-all, maybe I will push this button. To prove to you guys that he's wrong and I'm right." As Silverblood pushed the charge button, the machine whirred to life like a mini turbine engine. As it spun, it began to collect magic. "As you can see, guys. Nothing bad is happening. The magic gathers here. And then it'll create fireworks. Unlike what he said, it is not light particles." The machine began to lock up as the vents closed because he didn't press the vent button after pressing the charge button. "No! That's too much magic all at once. Quick! Press that button with the vent symbol to open the vents up." "Quiet, you. Don't mind him; he's jealous that he didn't create anything this good." "Silverblood! I rarely ever resort to name-calling. But you're an absolute imbecile. Do you have any idea what you've done?!" "Oh? What did I do then? Tell us. Enlighten the crowd for me." "That much magic will cause it to overheat and be unable to release the magic trapped inside it. You created a negatively-charged magical nuke that'll blow all Canterlot here to Kingdom Come." "W-What?!" "Yes. He patented my designs everypony. Of course, I would know how it works; I created it. I would also know what would happen if it got out of hand, and it clearly did." Everyone began to panic as Artcraft jumped out towards the stage and up to the machine and used his magic signature to try to lift the lock on it. "Damn. No dice. I'll have to run the emergency shutdown protocol. Celestia! Get everyone out as fast as possible if this doesn't work out. If this thing goes off, at least it won't get anybody else vaporized." "But Artcraft! What about you?" Celestia shouted back to him. "Don't worry about me. If I go, at least I had the opportunity to meet you and your sister. I'm content with that, if nothing else. Thank you for that opportunity, Princesses. Silverblood. Get out of here, now!" "Y-You don't have to tell me twice. E-Euuaughhh!" To everyone else's disgust, he ran away as fast as possible, knocking away anypony that got in his way. "Artcraft... I hope I was right about you." Celestia then ushered everyone to safety as Artcraft worked desperately to turn it off safely. "Come on... ugh. I don't have time for this. I'll have to pry open it's rear plating." Artcraft then pried open the plating with his magic to see a series of colored wires. "Holy... even the wires are beginning to melt. Not good." Artcraft then said a silent prayer as he severed the red and yellow colored wires as the machine sounded unstable. "C-Crap.. okay, wrong wires. Come on, baby. Hang in there. I'll get you to shut off." Sweat was racing down his forehead, his palms were sweaty, and his heart beat faster, pounding as each second ticked. Everything was on the line now. He severed the blue and purple wires as the machine began to sound even worse. "O-Oh gees... I-I guess this is it. I-It's the end... This is my last gamble here. Green or black. If I ever make it out of this tonight. I want to ask Celestia if she can strangle Silverblood for me, assuming that I live and can even turn this off." Green or black? The very question that everything hinged upon. Time was running out and fast. With a gulp, he then recalled that his favorite color was black. But that was a risky gambit; relying on a favorite color of all things?! "Note to self: Make sure to be more organized with your designs, assuming there will be the next time." Artcraft went for it, holding onto hope as much as he could. "I-I choose the black wire." "Everypony! Single file line, please. Remain calm. All will be well, my little ponies. My sister and I shall protect you all." Celestia did her best to calm them as the crowd made it out to the exterior of the city limits. "Come on, Artcraft. Do not give up like this." "Sister. You believe that he shall manage this?" "Yes, Luna. I do. I know he's got this." "I do hope so. I believe that the winner is obvious after this." Suddenly... a bright and powerful beacon of magical energy shot out upwards. It showed like an aurora borealis light show that sparkled a beautiful cascade of brilliant colors that aligned with the night sky perfectly for everyone to see. Artcraft then took a huge breath of relief as he leaned against the machine. "Oh, my Faustia above... t-that was way too close for my comfort." "Yes! I knew he could do it. Good on you, Artcraft. You did well." Celestia said in relief as Luna and the rest of the ponies were all cheering, all except for Silverblood, who chose to hide by himself into a concealed hay bail. Once the applause had settled down, the weasel then tried to escape. "Just you wait, Smart Ass! And just where do you think you are heading off to?" Luna then used her magic to lift Silverblood towards her with a severe deathly glare adorning her face. "So.. um... I'm guessing it would be too late to ask for that kiss from you, Luna?" "Duke Silverblood of Trottingham! As Princess of the Night and as co-ruler of Equestria, it is well within my jurisdiction as a princess to place you under arrest for your crimes against Equestria. And by royal decree, so long as my sister hath no objections, you shall henceforth be stripped of thine title of nobility, effective Immediately." The last two words were spoken with the Canterlot Royal Voice. Silverblood's life was falling apart; he looked towards Celestia for comfort or support as the night guards were apprehending him. "Please, Celestia. I'm sorry for doing this. I never meant to put all of Equestria in danger. All I thought I was doing was getting back at Artcraft. You have to believe me." But she just shook her head at him in disappointment. "Silverblood. You disappoint me. Your sentence has been carried out. I've warned you of what would happen if you brought any harm at all to my ponies ever again. Goodbye, Silverblood. May we never have any contact with you ever again. After you have served your sentence and paid your debt to society, you shall be exiled from Canterlot, never to return here permanently. I, Princess Celestia of Equestria, have spoken!" In silent horror, Silverblood's face had paled a ghostly sheet white as he was arrested and tossed into the back of their royal carriage, which was heavily guarded so he could not escape. "No, please. I swear that I'll turn things around. I swear it! By the honor of my family's bloodline. I will do better. Noooo!!!" He shouted as his panicked voice carried over the fields towards Canterlot itself. "Good riddance to bad rubbish, I say, Tia." As everyone made their way back into Canterlot and towards the stage, Artcraft was sleeping beside a broken cannon after its light show was finished, completely exhausted. Celestia chuckled at the sight as she then called her guards to move him to a particular guest room for him to rest up in. "Once he wakes up, we'll celebrate his bravery." Everyone made their agreement. Even the other would-be contestants had accepted that Artcraft's selfless bravery was far more than anything they had planned to show and just let it be. "I knew I had a good feeling about him, Luna. I can't quite explain it, but Artcraft truly has a heart of gold. I am most proud of him." "Agreed, Tia. And he did all of this for Canterlot and me. Without even thinking twice. Sister." Luna looked at Celestia to speak. "Yes, Luna?" "That stallion is mine!" "Well. You're welcome to have him then, Luna. So, you'll present his award to him and then grant him any one desire he wishes?" "Yes, sister. Yes, I will. Artcraft truly is a one-of-a-kind pony."
